Decoding the Harappan Script: A Global Conference Hosted by the Culture Ministry

The Union Ministry of Culture is set to organise a major international conference in New Delhi from September 11 to 13, focusing on the enduring mystery of the Harappan script. The event will convene archaeologists, scientists, and subject-matter experts from various disciplines to share their research and insights into this undeciphered script, which has puzzled scholars since its discovery nearly a century ago. The conference is being coordinated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), an autonomous institution functioning under the aegis of the Culture Ministry.

The Enigmatic Script of the Indus Valley Civilisation

The Harappan script, unearthed in the 1920s by Sir John Marshall’s archaeological team, remains one of the world’s most enduring linguistic mysteries. Associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), which thrived between 2600 and 1900 BCE, the script is emblematic of a sophisticated society that spanned roughly 800,000 square kilometres across modern-day Pakistan and north-western India. This civilisation boasted advanced urban infrastructure, including systems of trade, taxation, and drainage that were remarkably ahead of their time.

Nature and Material of the Inscriptions

Harappan inscriptions have been discovered primarily on seal stones and terracotta tablets, with occasional examples on metal surfaces. These inscriptions typically blend pictograms with depictions of animals or human figures, further complicating efforts to decode them. Disagreement persists among scholars over the number of unique signs the script contains. Archaeologist S.R. Rao estimated 62 signs in 1982, while Finnish Indologist Asko Parpola suggested 425 signs in 1994. More recently, in 2016, Bryan K. Wells placed the number at 676, highlighting the extent of scholarly divergence.

Ongoing Debates Over Linguistic Origins

The linguistic roots of the script remain fiercely contested. Sir Alexander Cunningham, who first reported a Harappan seal, believed the script to be an early form of Brahmi, a script that eventually gave rise to over 200 scripts across South and Southeast Asia. Some scholars have supported this hypothesis. However, Asko Parpola disagrees, arguing that Brahmi actually evolved from the Aramaic script used in the Persian Empire, thus detaching it from the Harappan tradition. The absence of scholarly consensus on both the number of characters and the script''s linguistic foundation has ensured that the Indus script continues to elude decipherment, ranking among the most profound unsolved puzzles in ancient history.

The Conference and Diverging Scholarly Views

The upcoming Culture Ministry conference promises to bring these scholarly debates into sharper focus. Papers scheduled for presentation reflect a wide array of conclusions, further illustrating the unresolved status of the Harappan script. These divergent perspectives underscore the complexity and mystery surrounding the language of one of the world’s earliest urban civilisations.

Competing Theories on the Script’s Origins and Content

A number of theories have emerged over time regarding the language and content of the Harappan script. Some researchers claim that the script is rooted in Sanskrit and contains references to Rig Vedic mantras. These scholars argue that many Harappan seals had primarily religious significance, even asserting that they contain allusions to Puranic literature—although historians caution that the Puranas were written centuries after the Harappan era. In contrast, other researchers propose a Dravidian basis for the script, with some asserting that up to 90% of the inscriptions have already been deciphered as Gondi, a Proto-Dravidian language. Another line of inquiry links the script to Santali, an Austroasiatic language, a theory that draws inspiration from Asko Parpola’s earlier research.

Challenges Facing Decipherment

Despite the proliferation of theories, historians consistently stress that deciphering the Harappan script demands a rigorous, interdisciplinary methodology. Key obstacles include the absence of bilingual inscriptions, the vast territorial range of the civilisation, and its centuries-long duration—all of which suggest that multiple languages may have been in use. The competing claims—whether linking the script to Sanskrit, Dravidian, Gondi, or Santali—demonstrate the intellectual allure and inherent difficulties of cracking this ancient code. Scholars generally agree that no credible breakthrough has yet been achieved and that a more systematic, contextual, and comparative approach is essential for meaningful progress.

Political and Cultural Undercurrents in the Script’s Interpretation

• Efforts to decipher the Harappan script are not limited to the academic sphere; they are deeply entwined with contemporary political and cultural narratives in India. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has publicly announced a $1 million reward for anyone who can credibly decode the script. A conclusion pointing to Dravidian roots would bolster political claims that southern India, rather than the north, is home to the subcontinent’s oldest civilisation.
• Conversely, some ideological groups view the Harappan script as a tool to challenge the Aryan migration theory. These proponents argue that the Harappans were Vedic people and point to the Ghaggar-Hakra river system—identified by some as the Saraswati River mentioned in the Rig Veda—as a core piece of evidence. If this linkage is substantiated, it would suggest that the Harappan script is a form of Sanskrit and support the theory of a continuous Vedic-Harappan cultural lineage.

Conclusion

As the international conference unfolds, it brings with it the hope of fresh insights, while also highlighting the multifaceted challenges that have long hindered decipherment of the Harappan script. Whether viewed through the lens of linguistics, archaeology, or cultural politics, the script remains one of the most captivating and unresolved enigmas of the ancient world.

Nepal’s Gen Z Protests: Social Media Ban, Youth Unrest, and Political Turmoil

On September 8, 2025, Nepal witnessed an eruption of unprecedented protests following the government’s sudden ban on major social media platforms. What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly spiraled into widespread violence. At least 19 people lost their lives, while over 400 were injured. Protesters breached Parliament, attacked the homes of senior politicians, and set off chaos across major cities, including Kathmandu, where curfews were imposed. As the second day of unrest intensified, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli announced his resignation, a move confirmed by his secretariat amid growing national and international pressure.

Youth on the Streets: The Rise of Gen Z Discontent

The driving force behind the protests is Nepal’s Generation Z — youth born between 1996 and 2012, particularly those aged 16 to 25. This demographic accounts for 20.8% of Nepal’s population and forms the core of the country’s internet users, comprising over 90% of the 30 million population with access to online platforms. Disillusioned with Nepal’s governance and political elite, these young people have turned their frustration into visible resistance.

Corruption, Nepotism, and Erosion of Trust

Central to Gen Z’s anger is Nepal’s chronic corruption and the impunity enjoyed by its political class since the transition to a republic in 2008. Online outrage intensified against the privileged children of politicians — labeled disparagingly as “Nepo Babies” and “Nepo Kids” — whose lavish lifestyles became symbolic of a deeply unequal society. The generational disconnect between the ruling elite and the digital-native youth has now translated into a full-blown societal fracture.

The Social Media Ban: Catalyst for Crisis

The immediate spark for the uprising came with the government’s decision to block 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. Officials claimed the ban was necessary due to the platforms’ failure to register with Nepali authorities and their alleged role in spreading hate speech, misinformation, and fraudulent content. Notably, TikTok remained accessible, having complied with local regulations. For Gen Z, the ban represented more than a policy decision — it was an assault on their primary mode of expression, community-building, and activism. The move deepened their alienation and triggered mass mobilisation.

From Protest to Bloodshed

The tension reached a boiling point on the day of the ban, when thousands took to the streets in protest. Confrontations between demonstrators and security forces escalated quickly. Police opened fire, resulting in the death of 19 people and injuring hundreds more. The sheer scale and intensity of the protests marked the largest youth-led uprising in Nepal in recent memory. Though lacking a formal agenda, protesters demanded the immediate reversal of the social media ban — a demand that was eventually met. However, their grievances extended far beyond digital censorship, encompassing widespread anger over unemployment, inequality, and the perceived failure of Nepal’s political system.

India’s Watchful Eye on a Fragile Neighbour

India, a key regional player with longstanding strategic interests in Nepal, is closely monitoring the situation. Past missteps — such as supporting Maoists over traditional allies like the monarchy and Nepali Congress — have made India cautious about taking sides. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently chaired a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting to assess the crisis, describing the violence as “heart-rending” and reiterating India’s commitment to Nepal’s peace, stability, and prosperity. New Delhi’s response is shaped by its desire to avoid alienating any domestic factions within Nepal, while safeguarding regional stability.

Beyond Oli’s Resignation: Deeper Democratic Malaise

The resignation of Prime Minister Oli has done little to quell the unrest or address the underlying causes of the revolt. The protests have now evolved into a broader reckoning with the state of Nepal’s democratic institutions. Demonstrators torched government buildings, ministerial residences, and media offices in Kathmandu, underscoring the intensity of their anger. What began as resistance to a digital policy has exposed deep-seated structural flaws in Nepal’s political experiment.

A Systemic Revolt Without a Blueprint

The Gen Z uprising quickly shifted from opposition to the social media ban to a sweeping indictment of corruption, nepotism, and a failed economic model. The killings of 19 protesters on the first day intensified national outrage, triggering a wave of mobilisation across the country. Unlike previous democratic movements in Nepal, these protests are leaderless and unfocused, driven more by rage than by reformist agendas. The absence of structured leadership or clear political alternatives reflects a generation''s nihilistic disillusionment with all state institutions.

Democracy in Peril: The Risk of Dangerous Precedents

Despite undergoing two people’s movements, adopting a new constitution, and establishing republican institutions, Nepal remains plagued by elite dominance, patronage networks, and institutional decay. The political vacuum and popular discontent have created fertile ground for anti-democratic forces to gain traction. Pro-monarchy and Hindutva-affiliated groups are already seeking to capitalise on the unrest. The loosely organised and ideologically diverse nature of the Gen Z protests makes them vulnerable to such co-optation, particularly in the absence of a coherent democratic vision.

Echoes Across South Asia: Regional Context and Outsider Appeal

Nepal’s turmoil is not unfolding in isolation. It echoes similar youth-driven protest movements across South Asia — from Bangladesh’s student-led mobilisations to Sri Lanka’s Aragalaya. The political rise of outsiders, including jailed media personality Rabi Lamichhane and Kathmandu’s populist Mayor Balendra Shah, underscores young voters’ rejection of traditional party politics. Shah’s recent call for the dissolution of Parliament, however, raises alarms about the rise of anti-institutional rhetoric that could undermine fragile democratic norms.

Nepal at a Crossroads: Between Reform and Ruin

The Gen Z-led movement has laid bare the political bankruptcy and institutional failures of Nepal’s democratic system. While the protests have successfully forced policy reversals and a prime minister’s resignation, their shift toward violence and nihilism poses a serious threat to democratic stability. Without credible alternatives, constructive policies, and new institutions to channel this generational energy, the movement risks destabilising the nation further. The road ahead demands urgent political reform, inclusive leadership, and genuine systemic renewal. Absent that, Nepal risks descending into deeper chaos — a state more fractured than before, and with even fewer tools to rebuild.

Adaptive Learning in Andhra Pradesh Demonstrates Remarkable Academic Gains

The state of Andhra Pradesh has recently gained national attention for its pioneering use of technology in education, particularly through its implementation of the Personalised Adaptive Learning (PAL) programme. This initiative, developed in collaboration with ConveGenius AI, has been validated by a rigorous evaluation led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer, which revealed substantial improvements in students’ mathematics learning outcomes.

Introduction

India’s education sector has increasingly embraced digital innovation to address systemic learning gaps, especially in government schools. Among these efforts, the Personalised Adaptive Learning (PAL) model has emerged as a leading intervention, offering tailored educational content that adapts to each student’s unique learning level. Andhra Pradesh stands out as a frontrunner in deploying this approach at scale. The latest independent evaluation of PAL, conducted through a large-scale study involving thousands of students, affirms its potential to transform foundational learning outcomes, particularly in mathematics.

Understanding Personalised Adaptive Learning

• Personalised Adaptive Learning represents a significant shift from traditional classroom instruction. Through smart software, the system continuously monitors a student''s performance and dynamically adjusts the learning content and difficulty level. This ensures that every student receives instruction suited to their learning pace—providing remedial support for struggling learners and advanced content for those ahead.
• Key features of the PAL system include gamified content designed to maintain student engagement, real-time assessments that adapt to individual progress, the use of tablets and laptops for content delivery, and a focus on mastering concepts rather than rote memorisation. The Andhra Pradesh government introduced PAL in government schools to address foundational numeracy challenges and improve overall mathematics achievement among students, particularly in underserved communities.

The Andhra Pradesh Implementation

• The state began rolling out PAL in 2018, initially piloting the programme in a limited number of schools before expanding it to 500 institutions. To rigorously assess its impact, a Randomised Control Trial (RCT) was carried out between 2023 and 2025. This study involved 120 government schools and approximately 6,800 students from Grades 6 to 9.
• Within the study, 30 schools were designated as the treatment group and equipped with PAL labs containing 30 tablets, while another 30 schools served as the control group without access to PAL. The intervention period lasted for 17 months, during which students in the treatment group engaged with the PAL software for an average of 35.3 hours. Each school provided two math sessions per week, each lasting 40 minutes, using the PAL system in dedicated digital learning labs.

Key Results from the Evaluation

·       The findings from the Nobel laureate-led study highlight the powerful impact of PAL on learning outcomes:

·       Students exposed to PAL showed learning gains equivalent to 1.9 additional years of schooling when compared to peers in the control group. The rate of learning in the PAL group was nearly double that of those not using the system. The most pronounced gains were observed in younger students (Grades 6 and 7), likely due to their increased access to devices and greater flexibility in adapting to digital tools.

·       A noteworthy gender dynamic emerged, with girls benefiting more than boys from the intervention—primarily attributed to higher usage rates among female students. From a cost perspective, the PAL programme proved highly efficient, with an estimated annual per-student cost of just $20 to $25. The credibility of these findings is bolstered by the fact that the evaluation included independent assessments of math proficiency, ensuring objectivity and transparency.

Wider Implications for India’s Education System

·       The success of the Andhra Pradesh PAL experiment is being recognized as a model for technology-led education reform in India. Although scaling the programme across the state’s 45,000 government schools presents logistical challenges, the potential impact is enormous. The model offers a feasible path to address persistent issues such as low math and reading scores reported in the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), and meets the rising demand for EdTech solutions that complement existing classroom instruction.

·       Moreover, the affordability and scalability of PAL make it particularly appealing for policymakers seeking cost-effective strategies to enhance the quality of public education. Its data-driven, adaptive structure positions it as a robust tool to support differentiated instruction in classrooms that often lack individualised attention.

Looking Ahead

·       The Andhra Pradesh government has already announced its intention to expand the PAL initiative to 1,224 additional schools, including PM-SHRI schools and residential institutions. If this phase proves as successful as the initial rollout, PAL could set a precedent for national-level adoption. Experts suggest that, when integrated with teacher training programmes and infrastructure upgrades, PAL can significantly enhance learning outcomes and equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the 21st century.

·       In sum, Andhra Pradesh’s innovative use of Personalised Adaptive Learning not only marks a major step forward in educational equity but also presents a replicable model that could redefine digital learning across India.

Loneliness and India’s Working Young: An Emerging Urban Crisis

A recent column has drawn attention to what it terms the greatest “corporate disease” affecting India’s young working population, particularly those aged between 25 and 35 years. This phenomenon, increasingly visible in the country’s rapidly urbanising centres, reflects how urban migration, coupled with a work–party lifestyle, is eroding the depth and authenticity of personal relationships. Beneath the surface of professional success and bustling social scenes lies a growing crisis of loneliness among India’s working youth.

Understanding Loneliness Among Urban Youth

·       Loneliness, in this context, is not simply a lack of company, but a condition marked by emotional detachment and social isolation—even while being constantly surrounded by people in offices, co-living spaces, or cafes. It is becoming especially prevalent in fast-growing metropolitan cities such as Bengaluru, Gurugram, Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. These hubs of employment and aspiration are also becoming epicentres of emotional disconnection.

·       A recent survey conducted across 14 firms reveals that 56% of respondents openly admitted to experiencing loneliness, while another 23% reported feeling lonely but were reluctant to admit it publicly. Only 21% claimed not to feel lonely at all. The gender divide is particularly stark—64% of women reported feeling lonely compared to 36% of men. Interestingly, men were found to be more active on dating apps (19%) than women (4%), suggesting different coping mechanisms for isolation. The problem is most acute among urban migrants in the 25–35 age bracket, who often find themselves cut off from their roots and social support systems.

Root Causes of the Loneliness Epidemic

·       The causes of this emotional malaise are complex and interlinked. Urban migration plays a central role: young professionals often move away from their hometowns, families, and cultural environments in pursuit of better career prospects. In doing so, they are uprooted from familiar social ties and find themselves navigating unfamiliar cities alone.

·       The dominant work–sleep–party cycle prevalent in many urban settings further compounds the problem. Long working hours, weekend recovery routines, and late-night socialising often substitute for meaningful interactions, leaving little room for emotional depth. At the same time, traditional social bonds—whether through extended family, neighbourhood ties, or local community groups—are steadily weakening in big cities.

·       Technology has provided temporary and often superficial solutions. Dating apps, speed-dating events, and social mixers offer quick companionship, but they rarely lead to lasting relationships. In many cases, they function more as distractions than solutions. A growing culture of individualism and relentless pursuit of personal ambition has led many young people to prioritise income, status, and self-image over sustained social connections.

Consequences of Loneliness on Individuals and Society

·       The emotional and psychological toll of loneliness is profound. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and chronic emotional emptiness are on the rise among young urban professionals. Without strong personal bonds, many lack the emotional resilience to cope with the high-pressure environments of modern workplaces.

·       Socially, the consequences are equally concerning. As more individuals withdraw from community engagement, there is a noticeable weakening of social capital. Trust, cooperation, and neighbourhood solidarity—once the fabric of Indian community life—are diminishing in urban settings. This detachment not only reduces the quality of life but also erodes the foundations of civic engagement.

·       Family formation is another area affected by this growing isolation. Many young professionals delay marriage and parenthood simply because they are unable to form meaningful romantic relationships. This has larger demographic and cultural implications, potentially disrupting the balance of kinship networks and traditional family structures. Interestingly, the instability of self-made relationships is pushing some back towards arranged marriages, where families and kinship networks once again play a central role in matchmaking and long-term commitment.

·       Workplace productivity is also under strain. Loneliness contributes to burnout, increased absenteeism, and high attrition rates. The absence of camaraderie among colleagues undermines collaboration, creativity, and the overall efficiency of organisations. In a work culture that often prizes competition over community, this is becoming an unsustainable model.

A Way Forward: Rebuilding Connection in a Disconnected Age

·       Addressing loneliness among India’s working youth requires a multi-pronged approach that combines sociological, cultural, technological, and policy-based interventions. Reinvigorating local community networks through neighbourhood associations and urban collectives can create spaces for organic social interaction. Within workplaces, human resources policies need to evolve to include initiatives that foster social bonding, promote mental health awareness, and ensure a better work–life balance.

·       On the digital front, there is a growing need to moderate the overdependence on dating apps and instead encourage platforms that enable meaningful connections. Technology should be a facilitator, not a substitute, for human relationships. Simultaneously, re-emphasising cultural practices—such as celebrating festivals, participating in shared rituals, or joining ethnic and regional associations—can help preserve a sense of collective identity and belonging.

·       From a policy standpoint, urban planning must prioritise recreational spaces, community centres, and youth clubs. Migrant support systems, mentorship programmes, and accessible mental health services are essential to create an inclusive and emotionally supportive urban environment.

Conclusion

Loneliness among India’s working youth is not a private affliction but a broader sociological issue, deeply rooted in the dynamics of urbanisation, migration, and the evolving nature of work and relationships. To combat it, there must be a conscious effort to restore the social fabric—through community, culture, and connection. Only by balancing the aspirations of modern life with the enduring need for meaningful relationships can India ensure the holistic well-being of its young workforce. In doing so, the country not only nurtures its youth but also safeguards the emotional health of its future.

Reimagining the Domestic Sphere in India: A Public Issue of Justice, Equality, and Recognition

Recent national debates on gender roles, dowry-related deaths, domestic violence, and the persistent undervaluation of women’s unpaid labour have brought renewed focus to the domestic sphere in India. Far from being a private, apolitical space, the domestic realm is deeply entwined with structural inequalities and systemic neglect—raising pressing questions about rights, recognition, and reforms.

Contemporary Realities of India’s Domestic Sphere

·       Violence, inequality, and the invisibility of labour continue to shape the domestic experience for millions of Indian women. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reports that 30% of women experience intimate partner violence, yet only 14% lodge formal complaints—highlighting the silence, stigma, and barriers to justice that surround domestic abuse. Moreover, nearly 7,000 dowry-related deaths each year between 2017 and 2022 serve as grim evidence of enduring structural violence against women within households.

·       The findings from the 2024 Time Use Survey further underscore the gendered division of domestic labour. While 93% of women report spending nearly seven hours daily on unpaid household services, and 41% devote an additional two-and-a-half hours to caregiving duties, men contribute only an average of 26 minutes to domestic tasks and 16 minutes to caregiving. This stark disparity reveals the disproportionate and often invisible workload carried by women within families.

·       In economic terms, this unpaid labour constitutes a massive, unrecognised contribution. The State Bank of India (SBI), in its 2023 report, estimated that if monetised, women''s domestic work would account for nearly 7% of India’s GDP—approximately ₹22.5 lakh crore. Despite this, women working in critical community-facing roles such as Anganwadi workers, ASHA health workers, and those involved in mid-day meal schemes remain labelled as “volunteers,” lacking formal recognition, employment benefits, or adequate compensation.

Ethical and Constitutional Dimensions

·       The systemic neglect of women’s rights within the domestic sphere represents a direct contradiction of constitutional values. Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law, and Article 15, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, are routinely violated in domestic settings where women face unequal treatment, abuse, and legal marginalisation.

·       Furthermore, the ongoing debates around marital rape, the lack of accountability for domestic violence, and the systemic undervaluation of unpaid labour challenge Article 21—the right to life with dignity. The vision of a just and humane working environment, enshrined in Directive Principles like Article 39(d) (equal pay for equal work) and Article 42 (just and humane conditions of work), remains largely aspirational.

·       The 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), in its report on Ethics in Governance, warned that entrenched patriarchy in social institutions is one of the greatest barriers to ethical governance and justice in India. This insight rings especially true when examining the persistent inequalities within the home.

Socio-Economic Implications of the Domestic Sphere

·       Beyond ethics and legality, the domestic sphere has deep socio-economic relevance. Unpaid labour performed by women effectively subsidises the broader economy by keeping household and subsistence wages low, thereby increasing profit margins for capital. Caregiving tasks, often performed silently and without recognition, also play a pivotal role in the intergenerational transmission of human capital—shaping childhood development, health outcomes, and educational attainment.

·       However, when violence and inequality permeate domestic life, their effects ripple outward, corroding trust within communities, reducing social cohesion, and weakening democratic participation. The home, therefore, is not insulated from public life—it is foundational to the functioning of society and economy alike.

Persistent Challenges

·       A set of interrelated structural, cultural, and institutional challenges hinder progress in reimagining the domestic sphere. Patriarchal cultural norms continue to glorify women’s sacrifices and socialise them into “adjustment” within marriage, reinforcing their secondary status. Meanwhile, policy inertia on key issues—such as criminalising marital rape or fully implementing domestic violence protections—signals a resistance to addressing deep-rooted gender injustice.

·       The economic undervaluation of care work also persists, as informalisation and lack of formal recognition push caregiving roles to the margins of labour policies. The gendered division of labour within households cuts across class and caste lines, creating a universal yet differentiated burden on women. Moreover, institutional silence—whether in terms of political will or systemic redressal mechanisms—continues to deprive women of both protection and recognition in their own homes.

Charting a Way Forward

To address the entrenched inequalities within the domestic sphere, India must embark on a comprehensive reform agenda encompassing legal, economic, cultural, and policy dimensions. Legal reforms must begin with the criminalisation of marital rape and robust implementation of the Domestic Violence Act. Equally vital is the formal recognition of community-based workers such as Anganwadi, ASHA, and mid-day meal workers through fixed wages, benefits, and employment rights.

·       From an economic perspective, India needs to explore mechanisms to account for unpaid domestic work in national income accounting. Social security and pension schemes for full-time caregivers must be introduced to acknowledge their lifelong contributions.

·       Cultural transformation is essential to challenge deep-seated gender roles. Campaigns promoting shared domestic responsibilities between men and women must be encouraged, while school curricula should include modules on gender equality and social responsibility from an early age.

·       Policy interventions should also prioritise the expansion of universal childcare and eldercare infrastructure, alongside the provision of both maternity and paternity benefits—measures that will help redistribute the burden of care. Time Use Surveys must be conducted regularly to provide data-driven insights for gender-responsive policy-making and track shifts in domestic labour patterns.

Conclusion

The domestic sphere in India is not merely a private concern—it is a public, political, and socio-economic issue that affects millions of lives, particularly those of women. Addressing it is integral to India’s constitutional promise of justice, equality, and dignity for all. Recognising the value of unpaid labour, enforcing protections against domestic violence, and encouraging a more equitable distribution of responsibilities are vital steps towards realising a “nari-shakti-led” democracy. Only by confronting the invisibility and inequality rooted within the home can India build a society that upholds constitutional morality and fosters true social justice.

UNICEF’s Child Nutrition Report 2025: Global Surge in Childhood Obesity and Unhealthy Diets

·       UNICEF’s Child Nutrition Report 2025 raises alarm over a global spike in unhealthy dietary patterns and rising childhood obesity, driven predominantly by the widespread availability and aggressive marketing of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and sugary beverages. The report underlines that these trends are shaping the health outcomes of children worldwide, and pose a significant threat to public health and future generations.

·       According to the findings, childhood overweight and obesity have seen dramatic increases since the year 2000. Currently, 5% of children under the age of five, and 20% of those aged between 5 and 19, are classified as overweight. Among school-aged children and adolescents in 2025, the prevalence of obesity stood at 9.4%, slightly exceeding the prevalence of underweight, which was 9.2%. These figures highlight a dual burden of malnutrition, where both overnutrition and undernutrition coexist, reflecting deep structural issues in global food systems and public health responses.

·       The report identifies a regional concentration of the crisis, with more than half of all overweight or obese children residing in just three regions: East Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, and South Asia. In South Asia alone, the prevalence of overweight among individuals aged 5–19 has increased nearly fivefold since 2000, underscoring the rapid pace of change and the urgency of intervention.

·       Several key drivers are contributing to this troubling trend. Ultra-processed foods, often cheaper than fresh and nutritious alternatives, have become increasingly accessible, particularly for low-income households. This affordability is largely a result of agricultural subsidies for staple ingredients such as corn, soy, and wheat, combined with the long shelf-lives of such products, making them more convenient and economically viable for many families.

·       Compounding the issue is aggressive and largely unregulated marketing. Digital platforms have enabled targeted advertisements that frequently bypass traditional regulatory scrutiny. Surrogate marketing through social media influencers has blurred the line between content and advertisement, often exploiting children''s impressionability to promote unhealthy choices.

·       The report also points to significant policy gaps. Only 7% of countries have implemented mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labelling, a critical tool for informed consumer choice. Meanwhile, just 8% have adopted food subsidy programs to make healthy foods more affordable, leaving a vast majority of children vulnerable to unhealthy dietary environments.

·       To address this crisis, UNICEF calls for a multi-pronged approach. One of the central recommendations is the protection of breastfeeding, through rigorous enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, especially to regulate digital platforms. The report also stresses the urgent need to transform food environments through legally binding measures. These include restrictions on the sale and marketing of unhealthy foods, introduction of taxes on sugary and ultra-processed products, and implementation of mandatory nutrition labelling.

·       Promoting access to nutritious foods is another key priority. UNICEF advocates for the redirection of agricultural subsidies to support the production and distribution of healthy food, along with efforts to strengthen local food systems that can sustain dietary diversity. In addition, the report calls for the reinforcement of social protection systems to ensure that economically disadvantaged families can access nutritious diets. Behavioural and social change communication strategies must also be deployed to build greater public demand for healthy food environments, reinforcing both institutional and cultural support for better child nutrition.

Centre Seeks Clarification on Tribal Rights Issues in Great Nicobar Island Project (GNIP)

·       In a separate development, the Indian government has sought a report addressing concerns about tribal rights in connection with the Great Nicobar Island Project (GNIP). These concerns were raised by local Tribal Councils, focusing specifically on the identification and legal recognition of tribal land and habitat rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006.

·       The GNIP was granted in-principle forest clearance and environmental approval in 2022, as part of the broader Holistic Development of Islands Program (HDIP). The initiative is spearheaded by NITI Aayog and is being implemented through the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO). The project involves the diversion of 130.75 square kilometres of forest land, half of which has been designated for "green development" — meaning it will be left untouched by tree felling or construction.

·       Key infrastructure developments under the GNIP include the establishment of an International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Galathea Bay, a greenfield international airport, a new township, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-powered energy plant. However, the project has sparked major concerns, particularly with regard to its impact on the indigenous communities and the fragile biodiversity of the region.

·       Great Nicobar Island is home to two particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) — the Shompens and the Nicobarese. These communities depend on their traditional forest habitats for social, cultural, spiritual, and economic sustenance. Galathea Bay, the focal site of the proposed terminal, is also one of the world’s most important nesting grounds for the endangered Leatherback Turtle and the Nicobar Megapode, both listed under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

·       At the heart of the issue is the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006 — officially known as the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act. The legislation was enacted to correct historical injustices suffered by forest-dwelling communities and to recognise both individual and collective rights over forest land. It mandates the recognition of community tenures, encompassing not only residential areas but also traditional territories used for spiritual, economic, social, and religious activities.

·       Under the FRA, Forest Rights Committees — especially the District Level Committees — are tasked with verifying and approving claims. However, tribal representatives allege that this legal process has not been fully honoured in the case of GNIP. They argue that the project’s development roadmap was approved without adequate consultation with local communities or proper identification and settlement of their customary rights.

·       In light of these allegations, the central government has initiated a formal request for a comprehensive report to assess the validity of these claims. The report is expected to review whether the development conforms with the FRA and to what extent tribal rights have been safeguarded in the planning and execution of the GNIP. As the situation develops, it raises broader questions about the balance between economic development and indigenous rights, especially in ecologically and culturally sensitive zones such as Great Nicobar Island.

The Domestic Sphere in India: Reframing a Private Space as a Public Concern

Context:

Ongoing national conversations about gender roles, dowry-related deaths, domestic violence, and the persistent invisibility of women’s unpaid work have brought renewed scrutiny to the domestic sphere in India. These discussions highlight how issues within the household are deeply tied to broader structures of inequality, governance, and constitutional values.

Current Realities

1.     Violence and Inequality: According to NFHS-5, 30% of women experience intimate partner violence, yet only 14% report or lodge formal complaints, reflecting a climate of fear, stigma, or resignation. Between 2017 and 2022, India witnessed nearly 7,000 dowry-related deaths each year, signalling the deep-rooted and systemic nature of violence within households.

2.     Time Use Survey (2024) Findings: An overwhelming 93% of women spend approximately 7 hours daily on unpaid domestic tasks, while 41% also dedicate around 2.5 hours to caregiving activities. In sharp contrast, men engage in only 26 minutes of domestic chores and 16 minutes of caregiving on average per day, revealing a vast gender gap in household labour.

3.     Invisible Contribution: The State Bank of India (2023) estimated that women’s unpaid domestic work, if monetised, would account for nearly 7% of India’s GDP—equivalent to ₹22.5 lakh crore. Despite their critical roles in Anganwadi services, mid-day meal schemes, and ASHA health initiatives, women continue to be classified as “volunteers,” receiving neither formal employment status nor adequate compensation.

Ethical and Constitutional Dimensions

• Violation of Equality: The current state of the domestic sphere contradicts Article 14 (equality before the law) and Article 15 (prohibition of discrimination), as women face systemic neglect and discrimination within the home.
• Denial of Dignity: The normalisation of domestic violence, the unresolved debate over marital rape, and the failure to recognise unpaid labour violate Article 21, which guarantees the right to life with dignity.
• Directive Principles Ignored: Despite constitutional promises under Article 39(d) (equal pay for equal work) and Article 42 (just and humane conditions of work), these rights remain aspirational rather than actionable.
• ARC’s Cautionary Note: The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), in its report on Ethics in Governance, flagged patriarchal norms embedded in social institutions as the most formidable barrier to justice and integrity.

Socio-Economic Significance of the Domestic Sphere

• Economic Subsidy: Women’s unpaid work reduces household expenditures and enables subsistence wages, effectively subsidising the larger economy and increasing the profit margins for capital.
• Intergenerational Impact: Care work ensures the continuity of human capital by nurturing the health, education, and development of future generations.
• Social Cohesion: Persistent inequality and domestic violence not only disrupt families but also undermine trust, reduce productivity, and weaken civic and democratic engagement.

Key Challenges

• Patriarchal Norms: Deeply ingrained cultural beliefs continue to glorify women’s sacrifice and normalize their “adjustment” within marriage, reinforcing their subordinate status.
• Policy Blindness: Legislative resistance to criminalising marital rape and the weakening of domestic violence protections reflect a lack of political will.
• Economic Undervaluation: The informalisation of care work and the complete lack of wages for unpaid domestic labour reinforce economic dependence and marginalisation.
• Gendered Labour Divide: The burden of household work falls disproportionately on women, regardless of class or caste, compounding other social inequalities.
• Institutional Silence: There is a noticeable absence of consistent political discourse, legal enforcement, or systemic redressal mechanisms to address domestic exploitation and violence.

Way Forward

1.     Legal and Institutional Reforms: Criminalise marital rape and reinforce implementation of the Domestic Violence Act. Provide fixed wages, job security, and formal recognition to Anganwadi, ASHA, and mid-day meal workers.

2.     Economic Recognition: Develop frameworks to include unpaid domestic labour in national income accounting. Introduce comprehensive social security and pension schemes for full-time caregivers.

3.     Cultural Shifts: Launch public awareness campaigns encouraging equal sharing of domestic duties between men and women. Integrate gender equality and sensitivity training into school curricula to challenge gender roles from an early age.

4.     Policy Interventions: Expand access to universal childcare and eldercare services to reduce the unpaid care burden. Increase maternity and paternity benefits to promote more equitable distribution of caregiving responsibilities.

5.     Data and Monitoring: Institutionalise regular Time Use Surveys to generate gender-sensitive data that can inform responsive and inclusive policymaking.

Conclusion

·       The domestic sphere in India must no longer be dismissed as a private matter—it is a critical public issue with vast economic, ethical, and social implications. A society that aspires toward justice, equality, and sustainable development cannot afford to ignore the millions of women whose labour remains invisible, undervalued, and unprotected.

·       Meaningful reform requires a paradigm shift that recognises the home as a site of rights, labour, and dignity. When unpaid care work is acknowledged, when dignity is protected, and when domestic responsibilities are equitably shared, India can truly move toward becoming a “nari-shakti-led” democracy—anchored in constitutional morality, social equity, and inclusive progress.

Cross River Gorilla

·       Tucked away in the mist-clad mountainous regions along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, the Cross River gorilla—a critically endangered species—struggles for survival. With fewer than 300 individuals remaining in the wild, it is not only the most endangered gorilla subspecies but also the rarest primate in Africa.

·       Scientifically classified as Gorilla gorilla diehli, the Cross River gorilla is a subspecies of the western gorilla. These gorillas inhabit a rugged and hilly terrain that spans the Cross-Sanaga-Bioko Coast Forest ecoregion. This region encompasses lowland, submontane, and montane forests situated on both sides of the upper drainage area of the Cross River, straddling the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

·       These primates are physically characterized by brownish-grey or black fur, although their faces, hands, and feet are bare. A distinctive reddish crest crowns their cone-shaped heads, while adult males exhibit a prominent silvery streak of hair down their backs—an iconic trait of male gorillas that has earned them the name “silverbacks.”

·       Social by nature, Cross River gorillas typically live in groups ranging from 2 to 20 individuals. These groups are led by a dominant male and usually include 6 to 7 females along with their offspring. As herbivores, they feed on various plant materials such as leaves, branches, berries, and nuts.

·       Despite their ecological importance, the Cross River gorilla remains on the brink of extinction and is currently classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)

·       Ethiopia recently inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), heralded as Africa’s largest hydroelectric project and a landmark achievement for the nation. However, this development has stirred geopolitical tensions, with Egypt protesting at the United Nations, describing the dam as an existential threat to its water security.

·       The GERD is a massive hydroelectric dam constructed primarily for power generation and regional energy trade, serving as a unifying symbol of national pride and development for Ethiopia. Geopolitically, however, it remains a contested project due to its impact on downstream countries.

·       The dam is located on the Blue Nile River in Guba, Ethiopia, approximately 30 kilometers upstream from Sudan. The Blue Nile is critically important because it contributes around 85% of the Nile’s waters, making any alterations to its flow highly sensitive in regional politics.

·       Ethiopia embarked on this project in 2011, viewing it as a manifestation of self-reliance and an instrument to boost its developmental goals and regional influence. Structurally, the dam stands about 170 meters tall and stretches around 2 kilometers in length. Its reservoir can hold up to 74 billion cubic meters of water, flooding approximately 1,874 square kilometers of land. The dam’s hydroelectric capacity is projected between 5,150 and 6,450 megawatts, making it the largest power producer in Africa. It is designed to trap sediment inflow for about 100 years, although actual sediment accumulation could be higher.

About the Blue Nile River

·       The Blue Nile, known locally in Ethiopia as the Abay River, is one of the two primary headstreams of the Nile River. It provides nearly 70% of the Nile’s floodwaters at Khartoum, Sudan. Stretching approximately 1,460 kilometers (907 miles), the Blue Nile originates from a spring near Lake Tana in northwestern Ethiopia, situated at an elevation of around 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) above sea level.

·       The river flows into and out of Lake Tana, descending through rapids and deep gorges within the Ethiopian highlands. From Ethiopia, the Blue Nile traverses through deep canyons around the Choke Mountains before entering Sudan, where it flows northwest to meet the White Nile at Khartoum, thereby forming the main Nile River.

·       The Blue Nile is further fed by important tributaries such as the Dinder and Rahad rivers, which originate from the Ethiopian highlands and significantly enhance its flow.

Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Initiatives

·       In a significant move aimed at improving India’s social security landscape and simplifying industrial compliance, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has launched two key initiatives—SPREE-2025 and the AMNESTY Scheme-2025.

·       SPREE-2025 (Scheme for Promoting Registration of Employers and Employees) is designed to remain operational until 31st December 2025. This scheme offers unregistered industries and workers an opportunity to enroll on the ESI Portal, Shram Suvidha Portal, or the Ministry of Corporate Affairs Portal without being required to pay past dues. Employers who register under SPREE-2025 will be considered covered from the date of registration or the date they declare, and their employees will begin receiving ESI health and social security benefits from that date onward.

·       Unlike punitive measures, SPREE-2025 promotes voluntary compliance by reducing litigation, facilitating formal registration, and fostering mutual trust between employers and employees.

·       The AMNESTY Scheme-2025, active from 1st October 2025 to 30th September 2026, serves as a one-time dispute resolution mechanism. It aims to settle disputes related to damages, interest, and coverage under the ESI Act. By providing employers with an opportunity to resolve longstanding legal and compliance issues, the scheme seeks to reduce litigation and ensure smooth delivery of employee benefits.

·       Regional Directors have been authorized under this scheme to withdraw legal cases where contributions and interest have already been paid. They are also permitted to close cases filed more than five years ago against insured individuals where no formal notices were issued. Importantly, for the first time, the scheme also covers disputes related to damages and interest on coverage issues.

Bhil Tribe

·       A translated compilation of folk tales from the Bhil tribe of Madhya Pradesh is soon to be made available through the Ministry of Tribal Affairs’ Adi Vaani portal and mobile application.

·       The Bhils are among the most ancient tribal communities in India, recognized as one of the Dravidian racial tribes of Western India and belonging to the Australoid group. Notably, they are one of the most widely dispersed tribal populations across the country. The term “Bhil” originates from the Dravidian word villu or billu, meaning “bow.”

·       Traditionally, most Bhils engage in agriculture. While some still practice slash-and-burn (jhum) farming, many have transitioned to using plows. Linguistically, they speak Bhili, an Indo-Aryan language that blends Gujarati and Marathi.

·       Geographically, the Bhil population is split into two major groups: the central and the eastern or Rajput Bhils. The central Bhils predominantly reside in the mountainous regions of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, while smaller Bhil populations are also found in northeastern Tripura.

·       Religiously, the majority of Bhils practice indigenous faiths that are heavily influenced by Hinduism. They worship a variety of local deities such as Khandoba, Kanhoba, Bahiroba, and Sitalmata, along with the Tiger God, known as vaghdev. The Baneshwar fair is their most prominent cultural festival, celebrated during Shivratri and dedicated to Baneshwar Mahadev—another form of Lord Shiva.

Exercise ZAPAD 2025

·       A contingent of the Indian Armed Forces has departed for Russia’s Mulino Training Ground in Nizhniy to participate in Exercise ZAPAD 2025, a multilateral joint military exercise.

·       India is represented by 65 personnel, comprising 57 from the Indian Army, seven from the Air Force, and one from the Navy. The primary objective of this exercise is to foster military cooperation and interoperability among participating countries. It also provides a platform for the exchange of military tactics, operational techniques, and best practices in conventional and counter-terrorism warfare.

·       The exercise focuses on joint company-level operations in open and plain terrain. Participating forces will engage in missions involving joint planning, tactical manoeuvres, and specialized combat skills. The event serves as a vital opportunity to refine joint operational abilities, integrate advanced technologies, and train within a multinational combat setting. Strategically, it bolsters India-Russia defence cooperation and deepens bilateral trust and camaraderie.

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

·       The Innovations for Defence Excellence - Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EdCIL (India) Limited to drive the development of next-generation dual-use technologies through the ASPIRE (Accelerating Strategic Progress in Research and Education) initiative.

·       Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Defence, iDEX is the flagship program designed to create a robust innovation ecosystem in India’s defence and aerospace sectors. It actively engages with start-ups, MSMEs, innovators, incubators, and academic institutions to foster cutting-edge research and development.

·       Funded and managed by the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO)—a not-for-profit company registered under the Companies Act 2013—iDEX operates as its executive arm. DIO itself was founded by two Defence Public Sector Undertakings: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

·       iDEX provides grants and technological support for projects with strong potential for future defence adoption. As of now, it is working with over 650 start-ups and MSMEs, aiming to transform India into a hub for indigenous defence innovation.

Iskander-K Missile Strikes Ukrainian Cabinet Building: A Snapshot of Tactical Warfare

·       In a recent escalation of hostilities, Russia launched an Iskander-K missile targeting Ukraine’s Cabinet building, signalling continued reliance on advanced tactical weaponry in the ongoing conflict.

·       The Iskander-K is a mobile, short-range cruise missile system developed by Russia. Mounted on an 8x8 military truck chassis, it resembles the Iskander-M, which is a ballistic missile system. Also referred to as SSC-8, the Iskander-K became operational in the Russian Armed Forces in February 2017 and is designed for tactical and operational strikes against key land targets.

·       The missile system’s launcher vehicle can accommodate between two and six container units. It boasts a maximum road speed of 70 km/h and can cover up to 1,000 km. The Iskander-K is capable of launching two types of cruise missiles: the 9M728 (also known as SSC-X-7 or R-500) with a maximum range of 500 km, and the 9M729 (SSC-X-8), which is a more advanced missile designed for precision targeting at extended ranges.

·       The 9M729 missile is particularly difficult to intercept, as it flies at low altitudes to evade radar detection and complicate countermeasures. With its enhanced mobility and stealth capabilities, the Iskander-K system continues to serve as a crucial component of Russia’s tactical missile arsenal.

Universal Postal Union (UPU)

·       The 28th Universal Postal Congress, which serves as the highest decision-making body of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), recently commenced its proceedings. The UPU operates as a specialized agency under the United Nations and functions as the primary forum for international collaboration within the postal sector. Established under the Treaty of Bern in 1874, it ranks as the world’s second oldest international organization and is headquartered in Bern, Switzerland.

·       The Universal Postal Congress plays a critical role in harmonizing postal policies among its member countries, as well as managing the global postal system. It formulates regulations governing international mail exchanges and provides recommendations aimed at expanding volumes of mail, parcels, and financial services, while enhancing customer service quality.

·       The governance structure of the UPU comprises several key bodies. The Congress, meeting every four years, holds the supreme authority. Between Congress sessions, the Council of Administration oversees ongoing work, supervising activities and addressing regulatory, administrative, legislative, and legal matters. The Postal Operations Council acts as the technical and operational branch, consisting of 48 member countries elected during the Congress. Supporting all these bodies, the International Bureau serves as the secretariat, delivering logistical and technical assistance.

·       Membership is open to all United Nations member states, and non-member states may join upon approval by at least two-thirds of existing members. Currently, the UPU has 192 member countries.

China vs India in Rare Earth Elements (REEs)

·       China recently introduced stringent interim measures to regulate rare earth mining and processing, reinforcing its dominant position in the global supply chain. Rare earth elements (REEs), a group of 17 metals critical for clean energy technologies such as electric vehicles and wind turbines, as well as for defense and advanced electronics, are at the heart of this competition between China and India.

·       China holds approximately 50% of global REE reserves, making it the largest holder worldwide. India has significant deposits, though far smaller in scale, primarily located in the states of Kerala, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu. In terms of production, China accounts for over 60% of the global output over the past five years, while India contributes less than 2%, mostly through Indian Rare Earths Limited under the Department of Atomic Energy.

·       China also dominates the refining capacity, controlling around 92% of global refining operations, whereas India has very limited refining infrastructure, primarily exporting raw monazite sands with low processing technology. China supplies about 30% of global demand as the largest exporter, while India remains heavily reliant on imports, with over 75% of its REE imports sourced from China since 2021.

·       In research and innovation, China leads with roughly 30% of global REE research output, while India contributes about 6%. Policy-wise, China has imposed tight export controls starting April 2024 and 2025, along with bans on processing technology exports, supported by approximately $14 billion in annual exploration funding. India’s efforts include the Atal Innovation Mission and the National Mineral Policy of 2019, but the absence of mid-sized firms and a robust R&D ecosystem limits its competitive edge.

CP Radhakrishnan – 15th Vice President of India

·       CP Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 15th Vice President of India, defeating Justice B. Sudershan Reddy in the election held on 9 September 2025. Born on 20 October 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, he has previously served as the Governor of Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and held additional charges in Telangana and Puducherry. He won the Vice Presidential election with 452 votes against his opponent’s 300, with an impressive turnout of over 98% among Members of Parliament.

·       The office of the Vice President is constitutionally established under Articles 63 to 65, designating it as the second-highest constitutional position in India. The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, does not hold any office of profit, and assumes the role of President if the latter’s office becomes vacant, until a new election is held within six months.

·       Eligibility criteria for the Vice President include Indian citizenship, a minimum age of 35 years, and qualification for election as a Rajya Sabha member. The individual must not hold any office of profit except as Vice President, Governor, or Union/State Minister.

·       The Vice President holds office for a five-year term but continues until a successor is sworn in. The officeholder can resign by addressing the President and may be removed through a Rajya Sabha resolution passed by a majority and agreed upon by the Lok Sabha, following a 14-day notice. During absence or vacancy in the President’s office, the Vice President assumes all associated powers and privileges. As Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President presides over debates, maintains order, and votes only to break ties.

Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2025: Indore Leads in Air Quality Management Amid National Progress

·       The Swachh Vayu Survekshan (SVS) 2025, conducted under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change as part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), has once again ranked Indore as the top-performing city in India for air pollution mitigation, reinforcing its position as a national leader in environmental sustainability. This achievement comes despite a marginal increase in PM10 levels.

·       The SVS is an annual survey that evaluates 130 cities under NCAP to promote healthy competition in air quality management. The assessment is comprehensive and multi-tiered, covering eight parameters such as road dust control, solid waste management, vehicular and industrial emission control, construction and demolition waste handling, and public awareness campaigns. It also factors in actual reductions in particulate matter concentrations, especially PM10.

·       In the million-plus population category, Indore secured the top spot, followed by Jabalpur, and Agra/Surat in joint third place. Navi Mumbai ranked fourth, followed by Kanpur, Bhopal, Prayagraj, and Chandigarh. Ahmedabad, Pune, and Nagpur shared the tenth rank. Other major urban centres such as Varanasi, Raipur, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Chennai featured further down the list, with Chennai ranked 41st.

·       In the 3–10 lakh population category, Amravati emerged as the top performer, while Dewas in Madhya Pradesh secured the first rank among cities with under 3 lakh population. Parwanoo in Himachal Pradesh and Angul in Odisha followed closely.

·       Out of the 130 cities surveyed, PM10 levels declined in 103 cities. Mumbai registered the highest reduction in PM10 concentrations, with a 44% drop compared to 2017–18 levels. Other metro cities also showed significant improvements: Kolkata recorded a 37% drop, while Hyderabad and Bengaluru each saw reductions of 26%. Delhi and Chennai also improved, with declines of 15% and 12% respectively. Despite this progress, only 22 cities met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), which set the annual average PM10 limit at 60 micrograms per cubic metre. Among major metros, only Chennai managed to meet this benchmark, recording an annual average of 58 μg/m³.

·       The SVS 2025 results highlight both commendable progress and the challenges that lie ahead in India’s battle against air pollution. While cities like Indore continue to set national examples, sustained policy efforts and public engagement remain crucial for achieving cleaner air across urban India.

Multi-Stage Malaria Vaccine AdFalciVax

·       The Union government has authorized five Indian companies to manufacture and commercialize AdFalciVax, the country’s first indigenous multi-stage malaria vaccine developed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). This recombinant chimeric vaccine targets Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, and is designed to both prevent infection and block transmission.

·       Developed by the ICMR Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) in Bhubaneswar, with support from the ICMR National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR) and the National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi, AdFalciVax aims to curb infection in individuals and reduce malaria transmission at the community level, thereby supporting India’s malaria elimination objectives.

·       The vaccine acts on the parasite before it enters the bloodstream, offering multi-stage protection that covers both infection and transmission phases. It is affordable, scalable, and stable, maintaining efficacy for over nine months at room temperature. It has been successfully validated through pre-clinical trials.

·       The five firms licensed to produce AdFalciVax in 2025 include Indian Immunologicals Ltd, Techinvention Lifecare Pvt. Ltd, Panacea Biotec Ltd, Biological E Ltd, and Zydus Lifesciences. India currently bears 1.4% of global malaria cases and accounts for 66% of Southeast Asia’s malaria burden. The vaccine strengthens India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in health research and development by indigenizing vaccine technology, reducing reliance on imports, and advancing the country’s Malaria Elimination Goal for 2030.

Lankhong Puja

The Tiwa tribe of Assam recently celebrated Lankhong Puja, a traditional socio-religious festival aimed at invoking blessings for a prosperous harvest in the upcoming Rabi agricultural season. Lankhong Puja is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious life of the Tiwa community, a tribal group residing mainly in Assam. The festival involves communal prayers and ritual offerings to deities, accompanied by music, dance, and various cultural performances. These rituals reinforce the agricultural traditions, foster community bonding, and help preserve cultural continuity within the tribe.

About the Tiwa Tribe

·       The Tiwa tribe, formerly known as Lalung, is a significant indigenous group in Assam, classified under the Mongoloid ethnic category. Linguistically, they belong to the Tibeto-Burman family and share close cultural and linguistic ties with the Bodo and Naga tribes.

·       Tiwa people primarily inhabit districts such as Nagaon, Morigaon, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, and Titabor in Assam, as well as regions of Meghalaya and Tripura. Their settlements are broadly categorized into hill Tiwas and plain Tiwas, whose lifestyles vary due to geographic and cultural influences from neighboring communities.

·       Physically, the Tiwa exhibit typical Mongoloid features, and their name is believed to derive from the words “Ti” meaning water and “Wa” meaning superior. Their cultural heritage includes rich oral traditions, folk music, and dance. Historical references to the Tiwa appear in Assam Buranji and other regional chronicles like Jayanta Buranji and Kachari Buranji. Their religious practices revolve around sacred spaces such as the Borghar, Thaan Ghar, and Naamghar.

·       Socially, youth organizations like the Chamadi play a pivotal role in upholding community service and social responsibilities, while the tribe’s festivals and rituals are closely tied to agricultural cycles and communal life.

Govind Ballabh Pant: Remembering a Stalwart of India’s Freedom Struggle and Nation-Building

·       The birth anniversary of Govind Ballabh Pant, a prominent figure in India’s freedom movement and post-independence governance, was recently commemorated. Born on 10 September 1887 in Almora, Uttarakhand, Pant was a visionary leader whose contributions spanned from active participation in the independence struggle to shaping the administrative structure of modern India.

·       In 1916, Pant founded the Kumaon Parishad, a regional political body aimed at addressing the socio-political issues of the Kumaon region. His national political journey began with his election to the United Provinces Legislative Council in 1923 on a Swaraj Party ticket. A close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, he played a vital role in major movements such as the Salt March and the Quit India Movement. He was arrested in 1930 for his involvement in planning the Civil Disobedience Movement.

·       Pant later became the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, where he initiated several reforms in governance and public administration. His most significant contribution at the national level came during his tenure as India’s Home Minister from 1955 to 1961. During this period, he played a key role in the linguistic reorganisation of states, which redefined India''s federal structure based on linguistic and cultural identities.

·       In recognition of his service to the nation, Pant was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India''s highest civilian honour, in 1957. Known for his unwavering courage, integrity, and compassion, Pant left a legacy of ethical leadership and dedication to public service that continues to inspire generations.

Avalanche at Siachen: Tragedy Highlights Dangers of High-Altitude Deployment

·       A tragic avalanche recently struck the Siachen base camp in Ladakh, claiming the lives of three Indian Army personnel, including two Agniveers. This incident underscores the extreme and unpredictable conditions faced by soldiers deployed in the world’s highest battlefield.

·       An avalanche is a sudden and rapid descent of snow down a mountain slope, often burying or sweeping away everything in its path. While snow is the most common medium, avalanches can also consist of rock, earth, and debris, resembling landslides. Such disasters are particularly common on slopes lacking trees or rocks, which otherwise help stabilise snow. A weak underlying layer of snow significantly increases the likelihood of an avalanche.

·       Avalanches can be triggered by various factors, including heavy snowfall, strong winds, temperature fluctuations, and even minor disturbances such as the movement of skiers or snowmobiles. Two main types of snow avalanches exist: sluffs and slabs. Sluff avalanches occur when a weak layer lies on the surface, leading to a relatively small and powdery snow slide. In contrast, slab avalanches, which are far more dangerous, happen when a weak layer lies beneath heavier, compressed snow. When triggered, these slabs break off as a cohesive block, causing widespread destruction.

·       Avalanches can range in severity from harmless to catastrophic, capable of destroying forests and entire settlements. Once the snow settles, it hardens like concrete, trapping victims and making rescue efforts difficult. Deaths usually occur from suffocation, physical trauma, or hypothermia. To mitigate these risks, mountainous regions employ preventative measures such as snow fences, diversion barriers, and controlled explosives to dislodge unstable snow safely.

National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL)

·       National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) has recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) to enhance cooperative-led agricultural exports from India.

·       NCEL is a national-level multi-state cooperative society established on 25 January 2023 under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002. Headquartered in New Delhi, it functions as an umbrella organization representing cooperative exports across India.

·       The primary objective of NCEL is to empower India’s cooperative sector in global markets, thereby increasing farmer incomes and advancing the government’s vision of “Sahakar se Samriddhi” (prosperity through cooperation). Major cooperative institutions like AMUL (GCMMF), IFFCO, KRIBHCO, NAFED, and NCDC promote NCEL.

·       NCEL’s functions include providing a unified platform for cooperatives to enter international trade, supporting exports in agriculture, dairy, fisheries, horticulture, handloom, handicrafts, textiles, and allied sectors. The organization offers critical infrastructure support, branding assistance, compliance management, and market access facilitation. It also aims to enhance the global competitiveness of cooperatives through training and the provision of market intelligence.

Nepal

·       Nepal, a landlocked Himalayan country in South Asia, is currently experiencing significant political unrest marked by youth-led protests. President Ram Chandra Paudel has called for peaceful dialogue amid ongoing demonstrations sparked by the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.

·       Nepal is renowned for its rich cultural diversity and dramatic geography. Its capital is Kathmandu, and it shares borders with India to the east, south, and west, and with China to the north. Key rivers like the Kosi, Narayani (Gandak), and Karnali play vital roles in irrigation and hydropower generation. Nepal’s mountainous terrain includes some of the world’s highest peaks such as Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Annapurna. The climate ranges from subtropical in the southern Tarai plains to alpine in the Himalayan north.

·       Politically, Nepal is a federal democratic republic, having abolished its monarchy in 2008. The President serves as the ceremonial head of state, elected by an Electoral College and acting as the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. The Prime Minister, appointed by the President, holds executive power and is accountable to the bicameral Federal Parliament, which consists of the directly elected House of Representatives with 275 members and an indirectly elected National Assembly representing the provinces.