Jaisalmer and the Maratha Empire Controversy: Historical Clarifications

A recent controversy has emerged regarding a map in the newly released NCERT Class 8 social science textbook, which depicts Jaisalmer as being part of the Maratha Empire in the year 1759. This portrayal has sparked objections from the descendants of the former Jaisalmer royal family, who have strongly criticized it as “historically misleading” and “factually baseless.” They argue that no reliable or credible historical records point to any instance of Maratha invasion, taxation, governance, or political authority over Jaisalmer. According to the family, documentation preserved in royal archives affirms that the Marathas neither exercised control nor interfered in the affairs of the princely state at any time.

In response to these concerns, the chairperson of NCERT’s curricular area group for social science stated that further historical research is currently being conducted to reassess the accuracy of the textbook map. Should the investigation reveal errors, revisions will be made, and a corrected version of the map will be incorporated in future editions of the textbook.

Understanding Maratha Expansion: Tribute Collection Versus Territorial Control

The Maratha expansion into northern India, especially under Peshwa Baji Rao I in the early 18th century, followed the decline of the Mughal Empire. Their campaign extended to various regions, including Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Bundelkhand, Bihar, Bengal, and Orissa, with the Marathas solidifying power in Malwa following the Battle of Bhopal. However, historians emphasize that this expansion often involved economic arrangements rather than full-scale political domination. Local rulers, including zamindars and regional chieftains, generally remained in power and were permitted to govern their domains in exchange for tribute payments such as chauth and sardeshmukhi.

These tribute arrangements, while significant, did not necessarily indicate the Marathas'' sovereign authority over the regions concerned. Numerous states submitted tributes without recognizing the Peshwa as their ruler. In effect, while the Marathas wielded considerable economic leverage, it did not always translate into administrative or territorial control, particularly in areas with strong local leadership.

Historians Dismiss Jaisalmer’s Inclusion in the Maratha Realm

Scholars widely agree that despite the Marathas’ ambitious expansion in the 18th century—particularly after their consolidation of the Deccan and annexation of territories such as Orissa and Malwa—Jaisalmer remained outside their domain. Historical records show that Maratha forces entered Rajasthan on several occasions, often upon the invitation of Rajput rulers to resolve succession conflicts. Their influence, however, was largely confined to more prominent states like Jaipur and Jodhpur. Jaisalmer, along with Bikaner, remained unaffected by Maratha incursions.

There is no documented evidence of Jaisalmer being a tributary to the Marathas. While some Maratha campaigns did extend into Rajasthan to collect tribute, these efforts were temporary, and their agents were frequently expelled after military forces withdrew. Even larger and more strategically located states such as Amber-Jaipur resisted regular tribute payments, and no records suggest that Jaisalmer ever entered into such agreements. This further supports the conclusion that Jaisalmer was never under Maratha sovereignty or even tributary status.

Fragmented Rule: The Nature of Maratha Authority

Historians point out that Maratha control across the Indian subcontinent in the 18th century was far from monolithic or uniform. Their authority fluctuated significantly from one region to another during the period between the 1730s and 1750s. The extent of control ranged from territories under direct administration to areas where Maratha influence was superficial, often limited to financial exactions or temporary military presence. In regions where resistance was strong, such as those controlled by assertive zamindars, Maratha authority frequently proved tenuous or entirely ineffective.

Rather than viewing the Maratha polity through the lens of religious or proto-nationalist narratives—as a Hindu resurgence against Muslim rule or an effort at internal reform—many scholars argue for understanding it as one among several contemporary political powers vying for regional dominance. The focus, they suggest, should shift from romanticized claims of vast territorial control to analyzing the specific mechanisms through which the Marathas attempted to exercise and maintain authority.

NCERT’s Stance on the Map Controversy and Commitment to Accuracy

In light of the criticism, NCERT clarified that the new Class 8 chapter on the Marathas was developed in consultation with subject experts and based on maps published earlier, which had previously gone unchallenged. The contested map includes both areas under direct Maratha control and those considered tributary or under short-lived influence through negotiated agreements.

NCERT acknowledged an oversight: unlike the Grade 7 textbook, the Grade 8 version did not include a disclaimer clarifying that the borders depicted on the map are approximate. Experts reviewing the issue have recommended using varied color shades in future editions to distinguish between directly controlled territories, tributary regions, temporary conquests, and zones of influence. Such distinctions, they argue, are crucial to prevent oversimplification and misrepresentation of complex historical realities.

Rain, Landslides, and Flash Floods in the Himalayas: Causes, Hazards, and Strategies for Mitigation

A deadly flash flood struck Dharali in Uttarkashi district on August 5, resulting in at least four deaths, numerous missing persons, and extensive destruction. The disaster displaced hundreds and came on the heels of similar severe weather incidents in Himachal Pradesh the previous month, which claimed dozens of lives and disrupted thousands more.

Uncertainty Around Dharali Flash Flood Highlights Escalating Hazards

Flash floods in the Himalayas are commonly linked to intense rainfall, which can trigger landslides or mudslides. These events often funnel debris into river systems, causing rapid surges that devastate everything downstream. In the case of Dharali, the precise trigger remains unclear. While a glacial lake outburst is being investigated as a potential cause, it has not yet been confirmed.

Interestingly, the region was not experiencing unusually high monsoon rainfall at the time, further complicating efforts to pinpoint the cause. This event underscores a troubling trend: even areas with typical rainfall patterns are increasingly vulnerable to high-impact disasters, especially in ecologically sensitive mountain zones. Moreover, it highlights the growing challenge of implementing reliable early warning systems and mitigation efforts in such complex terrains.

Rainfall Patterns and the Absence of Cloudburst Evidence in Uttarkashi

Despite heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand this August, Uttarkashi itself recorded relatively mild precipitation prior to the flood. On August 3 and 4, while districts like Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar experienced intense rainfall, Uttarkashi’s precipitation remained below average.

On August 5—the day of the flood—the district registered 32 mm of rainfall, which, although double the normal daily amount, did not qualify as an extreme event. According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) standards, a cloudburst involves at least 100 mm of rain within one hour over a 10×10 km area. These hyper-local events are difficult to monitor and often go undetected if no measuring equipment is present in the affected locations.

While cloudburst-triggered disasters have been observed recently in Himachal Pradesh, IMD data does not support the occurrence of such a phenomenon in Uttarkashi during the Dharali flood, not even in the region’s more remote areas.

Multiple Converging Factors Behind Flash Floods in the Himalayan Region

Flash floods in the Himalayas are seldom the result of a single trigger. While heavy rainfall is often involved, these floods typically occur due to a combination of contributing factors. These include:

• Intense rain inducing landslides or mudslides that channel large volumes of debris into rivers,
• Steep mountainous slopes that accelerate water runoff,
• And sudden glacial lake breaches releasing massive quantities of water, as witnessed during the 2021 Chamoli disaster.

Even in the absence of severe rainfall, landslides or flash floods can occur in areas with unstable terrain, loose soil, and saturated slopes. The Himalayas, being a young, tectonically active mountain range, are far more susceptible to erosion, seismic activity, and slope failure than older ranges like the Aravalis.

These inherent geological vulnerabilities are further exacerbated by anthropogenic pressures such as widespread infrastructure development, extensive road construction, and heavy vehicular movement, all of which increase the likelihood of disasters during even moderate weather events.

Limitations in Forecasting and Approaches to Risk Mitigation

The Dharali tragedy serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of flash floods. The fact that such an event occurred despite only moderate rainfall illustrates the limitations of current forecasting models. While meteorological services can predict heavy rainfall and landslide probabilities with increasing accuracy, they still fall short in anticipating whether these conditions will directly lead to flash floods.

Nevertheless, a number of mitigation strategies can reduce the risks associated with such events. These include:

• Prohibiting construction along vulnerable riverbanks,
• Relocating at-risk communities away from flood-prone waterways,
• And properly managing construction materials, large stones, and debris to prevent them from being swept into rivers during high-flow events.

Such proactive measures, while not eliminating the threat entirely, can significantly improve resilience and reduce the human and environmental costs of flash floods in the Himalayan region.

EV Policy Shift: Driving a Cleaner Transport Future Through Truck Electrification

India has recalibrated its electric vehicle (EV) policy, pivoting from electric cars to a stronger focus on trucks. A significant step in this direction is the introduction of the PM E-DRIVE scheme, which allocates ₹500 crore in subsidies to support the adoption of 5,600 heavy-duty electric trucks, targeting the high emission share from the commercial transport sector.

Introduction: Rethinking India’s EV Priorities

India''s electric mobility landscape is witnessing a strategic transformation. Earlier efforts emphasized the promotion of electric cars. Now, however, the spotlight is shifting to electrifying the nation’s trucking fleet. This move addresses a pressing issue: though trucks represent just 3% of India’s total vehicle population, they are responsible for over one-third of the country’s transport-sector carbon emissions. To confront this imbalance, the government has introduced the PM E-DRIVE subsidy program, aimed at making e-trucks more economically viable.

From Electric Cars to Trucks: Tracing the Policy Evolution

The shift became official in September 2024, with the launch of the PM E-DRIVE initiative, notably excluding subsidies for electric cars—marking a departure from earlier programs like FAME, which targeted four-wheelers. The policy rethink was further supported in August 2025 by NITI Aayog, which emphasized that India''s EV metrics should not revolve around electric car adoption alone, especially in a country where two-wheelers dominate and cars comprise just 13% of the fleet.

While electric two-wheelers have gained traction, reaching 6% adoption, electric cars still represent only 2% of four-wheeler sales as of 2024—falling far behind China (47%), Europe (23%), and the United States (10%).

Barriers to Electric Car Adoption in India

Despite numerous incentives—such as tax benefits, dropping battery prices, and manufacturing support under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme—EV car sales in India continue to grow slowly. Key deterrents include:

• High upfront purchase costs
• Range anxiety
• Limited daily vehicle usage, especially for personal cars

Further limiting the impact is the fact that premium electric cars priced over ₹10 lakh make up only 2% of the vehicle fleet, diminishing the environmental gains from their electrification.

To attract global investment, the government introduced the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in 2024. However, the response has been lukewarm. For instance, Tesla declined to set up manufacturing operations in India, reflecting limited international interest.

Why Focus on Trucks? The Case for Commercial Electrification

India’s logistics backbone, the heavy-duty truck segment, is also its most polluting. Trucks are responsible for 34% of transport-related CO₂ emissions and contribute to over 50% of particulate pollution, despite their relatively small numbers.

Among these, long-haul trucks are especially significant for cutting emissions due to their high usage and fuel consumption. However, electric truck adoption remains minimal—only 0.7% in 2024. Of the 8.34 lakh trucks sold that year, just 6,220 were electric, and only 280 of these had payload capacities exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

Government Support and Incentives for E-Truck Adoption

To address the cost barriers associated with electric trucks, the Ministry of Heavy Industries is offering incentives of up to ₹9.6 lakh per vehicle under the PM E-DRIVE program. Additionally, 1,100 trucks registered in Delhi will receive targeted support to combat the capital’s acute air pollution.

In May 2025, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser identified 10 high-potential, zero-emission freight routes, including:

• Chandigarh–Delhi–Jaipur
• Dhanbad–Kolkata–Haldia
• Bengaluru–Chennai–Villupuram
• Salem–Coimbatore–Kochi

These corridors are prioritized for electrification, based on high freight movement and pollution levels.

Global Inspiration: Learning from China’s Freight Electrification

China offers a compelling example of the impact large-scale truck electrification can have. With 9% of its heavy-duty trucks now electric, the country is displacing over 1 million barrels of oil demand daily. India aims to replicate this success to reduce its oil dependency and urban air pollution levels while transitioning to a greener transport model.

Looking Ahead: Infrastructure, Policy, and Private Sector Involvement

The success of India’s electric truck initiative hinges on several critical factors:

• Establishing high-capacity charging stations along key industrial and logistics corridors
• Financial and operational incentives for fleet operators to transition to electric vehicles
• Scaling domestic production of e-trucks, batteries, and related components
• Robust policy backing for green freight logistics through public-private partnerships

If these components are effectively aligned, India has the opportunity to emerge as a global leader in sustainable freight transport, delivering meaningful climate, health, and energy security benefits in the long run.

Allegations Against the Election Commission of India: Voter Roll Integrity Under Scrutiny

Context: Accusations of Voter List Tampering

The Opposition has levelled serious allegations against the Election Commission of India (ECI), claiming widespread manipulation of voter rolls in states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and others. These charges include claims of systemic bias and “vote theft” allegedly benefiting the ruling party.

Core Issues and Allegations Related to Electoral Practices

1.     Duplicate Voter Registrations: Over 11,900 voters are alleged to have been registered multiple times within the same constituency. Example: A single person was reportedly listed in four separate polling booths.

2.     Fictitious or Invalid Addresses: Roughly 40,000 entries were found to be linked to non-existent or unverifiable residential addresses, often containing fabricated personal data. Example: Random characters appeared in fields meant for the voter’s father’s name, highlighting verification failures.

3.     Overcrowding of Voters at One Address: Multiple unrelated individuals were reportedly registered at the same small residential unit. Example: A single-room dwelling had 80 voters listed, all from different families.

4.     Commercial Properties Used as Residences: Some voters were shown to reside at business locations rather than genuine homes. Example: A brewery address had 68 registered voters, none of whom could be found residing there.

5.     Misapplication of Form 6 (New Voter Registration): Allegations surfaced of Form 6 being exploited for ineligible or duplicate registrations. Example: An elderly citizen was said to have registered twice in a span of two months and reportedly voted at two different booths.

6.     Cross-State Voter Enrolment: Individuals were allegedly enrolled in voter lists across multiple states. Example: One person was found on electoral rolls in two booths within one state and also in two additional states.

7.     Anomalies Extending Beyond Individual Constituencies: Similar irregularities have reportedly been identified across various states and elections. Example: In a particular assembly poll, the winning margin was nearly equal to the number of disputed voter entries.

Significance of Elections in a Democratic System

·       Legitimacy of Governance: Elections provide a lawful mandate to govern; the 67% voter turnout in 2019 is a testament to democratic engagement.

·       Citizen Empowerment: Enshrined under Article 326, universal adult suffrage ensures public participation in governance.

·       Political Stability: Free elections enable smooth leadership transitions and help avert unrest.

·       Rule of Law: They uphold constitutional values and hold elected representatives accountable to the people.

Way Forward: Addressing Electoral Integrity Concerns

1.     Digital Transparency: Publishing voter rolls in machine-readable formats can empower civil society, researchers, and ordinary citizens to detect inconsistencies and duplicate entries. This fosters transparency and reduces manipulation.

2.     Independent Third-Party Audits: Neutral agencies should be tasked with verifying electoral rolls to ensure they are accurate and free of bias. Such audits can identify structural errors before elections, enhancing institutional trust.

3.     Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Amendments to the Representation of the People Act, 1951 are needed to introduce stricter punishments for voter fraud. Swift legal consequences would act as a deterrent and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

4.     Enhancing Public Trust: Regular public updates on the status and outcomes of voter complaints will foster transparency. It helps reassure voters and reinforces institutional accountability.

5.     Embracing Secure Technologies: Implementing blockchain-based voting systems can help establish tamper-proof, verifiable records. This would minimize the risk of manipulation and boost voter confidence in the digital era.

Conclusion: Safeguarding Democratic Foundations

Elections are the backbone of democracy, and the Election Commission of India must remain above partisan influence to preserve public trust. Allegations such as those raised by the Opposition—regardless of their eventual validation—must be investigated thoroughly. The ECI’s commitment to impartiality, transparency, and accountability remains its most vital defence against declining public confidence.

India’s Private Space Sector Faces a Deepening Talent Shortage

Context: A Growing Industry Held Back by Scarcity of Specialised Skills

India’s booming private space industry is grappling with a significant talent crisis, particularly in advanced fields such as rocketry, propulsion systems, photonics, and sensor technologies. With limited access to qualified experts, startups are increasingly forced to rely on professionals from unrelated industries and invest heavily in long-term in-house training to fill critical roles.

Despite growing interest in space entrepreneurship and ambitious goals for the space economy, the absence of comprehensive academic programs and comparatively lower salary offerings have led many skilled graduates to seek opportunities abroad. As a result, the talent shortfall is emerging as a major roadblock to the growth, innovation, and global competitiveness of India’s private space sector.

Current Challenges in Space Sector Recruitment

·       Insufficient Specialised Talent: There is a marked scarcity of engineers and scientists with formal training in key space technologies.

·       Overreliance on Cross-Industry Recruits: Most private space firms recruit from other sectors like automotive, electronics, or metallurgy.

·       Extended Training Periods: Startups often need to spend 6 to 12 months upskilling new hires before they can contribute effectively.

Key Statistics Highlighting the Talent Gap

·       175 institutions in India offer undergraduate programs in aerospace engineering; 75 offer postgraduate courses.

·       Yet, only about 8,000 aerospace engineers graduate each year—just 0.5% of the total engineering graduate pool.

·       Approximately 30% of hires in space startups are fresh graduates, while the remaining are lateral entrants from unrelated fields.

Why the Private Sector Matters in India''s Space Future

The private space ecosystem plays a vital role in strengthening India''s space capabilities across several dimensions:

·       Technology Innovation: Startups drive advancements in launch vehicles, propulsion, satellites, and sensing systems.

·       Economic Contribution: The sector is key to achieving India’s $9 billion space economy target by 2030.

·       Global Reach: Private players enhance India’s footprint in the international satellite and launch services market.

·       Reduced Dependency on ISRO: Diversification supports the broader space mission without overburdening the Indian Space Research Organisation.

·       Job Creation: Promotes high-skilled employment in cutting-edge domains such as materials science and advanced manufacturing.

Root Causes of the Talent Crisis

·       Limited Academic Specialisation: Few institutions offer in-depth courses in areas like cryogenics, optical engineering, or photonics.

·       Brain Drain: Many capable graduates opt for higher-paying international roles, depriving the domestic sector of talent.

·       Heavy Training Requirements: The burden of skill development falls on startups, delaying project timelines.

·       Lack of Awareness: Space careers are not widely seen as viable due to limited job market visibility.

·       Weak Academia-Industry Ties: Curriculum development often lacks real-time input from industry stakeholders.

Government Steps to Address the Gap

·       IN-SPACe and AICTE Collaboration: Joint efforts to integrate space-centric courses into engineering college curricula.

·       Short-Term Training Modules: Certification programs like "Space Technology in Agriculture" in partnership with institutions such as Amity University.

·       FDI Liberalisation: Policy reforms to encourage foreign direct investment and boost private R&D in the space domain.

·       Make in India Incentives: Support for local manufacturing of space components to strengthen the domestic supply chain and workforce skills.

Strategic Roadmap to Close the Talent Divide

·       Dedicated Academic Pathways: Launch focused degrees and research programs in emerging space technologies through IITs, NITs, and premier private universities.

·       Industry-Academia Apprenticeship Models: Facilitate structured, hands-on learning by placing students directly within operational startups.

·       Globally Aligned Compensation: Introduce salary structures that compete with international standards to retain talent within the country.

·       International Engagement: Foster partnerships with foreign space agencies and companies to promote skill exchange and technology transfer.

·       Early Education Initiatives: Introduce basic space science modules into STEM curricula at school level to build interest from a young age.

Conclusion: India’s Space Future Depends on Human Capital

India’s private space sector is poised for transformative global breakthroughs, but the existing talent gap threatens to slow its trajectory. Addressing this challenge will require coordinated collaboration between academia, industry, and government. A robust and future-ready workforce is essential for India’s ambitions in space to truly lift off and reach new frontiers.

Uneven CSR Spending Across India: A Deepening Developmental Divide

Context: Disparities Highlighted in Corporate Social Responsibility Allocation

A recent report by the Developmental Intelligence Unit (DIU) has spotlighted the stark geographical imbalance in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) spending across India. According to the findings, nearly 60% of CSR funds in 2022–23 were directed toward just six states, while underdeveloped Aspirational Districts collectively received less than 20% of the total expenditure—raising concerns over equitable resource distribution.

Understanding CSR and the Current Spending Disparity

Corporate Social Responsibility is a statutory obligation under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, mandating that qualifying companies allocate at least 2% of their average net profits over the previous three years toward social and developmental initiatives. These efforts span areas such as education, healthcare, environment, and rural development.

CSR Spending Trends: FY 2022–23 Snapshot

• Total CSR Expenditure: In 2022–23, India’s total CSR spending reached ₹29,989.92 crore, reflecting a 12.8% increase compared to the previous financial year.
• Regional Concentration: A significant portion—around 60% of total CSR funds—was spent in just six states: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi and Gujarat.
• Marginalised Regions: In contrast, Aspirational Districts—spread across states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and the Northeast—received less than 20% of the total CSR expenditure. These districts are designated as development priority zones by the government due to persistent socioeconomic challenges.

Key Issues and Structural Challenges

The report highlights several systemic issues contributing to this imbalance:

• Misinterpretation of "Local Area Preference": Companies often restrict CSR activities to areas near their corporate offices or operational zones, sidelining regions with greater developmental needs.
• Duplication of Government Schemes: Many CSR projects overlap with existing government initiatives, reducing the unique value and impact of private sector contributions.
• Lack of Outcome-Based Metrics: Without robust mechanisms to evaluate impact, CSR funds often fail to deliver measurable improvements in beneficiary communities.
• Limited Community Engagement: A lack of local involvement in project planning and implementation weakens the sustainability and effectiveness of CSR programs.

Conclusion: Rethinking CSR Strategy for Inclusive Development

While CSR spending has grown in absolute terms, its uneven distribution highlights a need for course correction. Redirecting focus towards Aspirational Districts and underfunded regions, adopting impact-driven metrics, ensuring community participation, and re-evaluating the interpretation of "local area" mandates are critical to making CSR a powerful tool for inclusive development.

Nauru: Pacific Island Nation Sells Passports to Fund Climate Action

Recent Development

Nauru, a remote island country in the Pacific, has initiated a controversial measure to support its climate action goals by selling national passports. However, since the beginning of this year, only six applicants have been approved under the initiative.

About Nauru

1.              Geographic Location: Nauru is a tiny island country and microstate situated in Oceania, in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It lies approximately 1,300 km northeast of the Solomon Islands, with its closest neighbour being Banaba Island in Kiribati, located about 300 km to the east.

2.              Topography and Natural Resources: Nauru is a raised, fossilised coral atoll, and one of the three major phosphate rock islands in the Pacific. The island’s landscape is marked by a central phosphate plateau encircled by coral cliffs. Decades of phosphate mining have severely damaged the environment, rendering nearly 80% of the island’s interior uninhabitable and unsuitable for cultivation.

3.              Capital and Administrative Setup: Nauru has no official capital city. The Yaren district, located on the island''s southern coast, functions as its de facto capital, housing key government offices.

4.              Language and Communication: The native language is Nauruan, while English is widely spoken, particularly for administrative and commercial communication.

5.              Political System: Nauru became independent in 1968, adopting a republican constitution and establishing a Westminster-style parliamentary democracy.

Bharat Forecast System (BharatFS): Enhancing Localized Weather Prediction

Introduction

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences recently informed the Rajya Sabha about the Bharat Forecast System (BharatFS)—a new, indigenous weather forecasting model aimed at providing high-resolution and accurate predictions across India.

About Bharat Forecast System

·       BharatFS is a state-of-the-art, indigenously developed weather forecasting system designed to deliver highly localized weather forecasts, particularly targeting clusters of panchayats and villages.

·       The model is powered by the Triangular Cubic Octahedral (TCo) dynamical grid, enabling operations at a 6 km horizontal resolution. This significantly surpasses its predecessor, GFS T1534 (~12 km), and even typical global weather models which generally operate at 9–14 km resolution.

·       The deployment of BharatFS has been facilitated by advanced supercomputing systems—Arka at IITM-Pune and Arunika at NCMRWF-Noida—allowing real-time weather prediction capabilities.

Key Features and Achievements

·       The system has been tailored for forecasting at the grassroots level, enabling 6 km-resolution outputs for localized precision.

·       In research trials, BharatFS has shown substantial improvements in forecasting:

o   Core monsoon region rainfall prediction

o   30% increase in accuracy for forecasting extreme rainfall events compared to the older operational model.

·       The forecasting model was developed collaboratively by scientists from Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, with active support from the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Noida, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Significance and Impact

·       Capturing Local Weather Patterns: Its high resolution helps in detecting localized weather phenomena, enabling micro-level forecasts.

·       Support for Farmers and Authorities: Farmers can make informed decisions on crop sowing, irrigation, and harvesting. Water resource managers can optimize reservoir operations during monsoons, reducing flood risk and improving water security.

Strategic Importance: The launch strengthens India’s meteorological infrastructure, bolsters regional self-reliance, and enhances the country’s capacity to assist neighbouring nations in weather forecasting.

Dardanelles Strait: Strategic Maritime Corridor

Recent Development

Turkey temporarily closed the Dardanelles Strait to shipping due to ongoing forest fires in the surrounding region.

Geographical Overview

·       The Dardanelles is a narrow waterway in northwestern Turkey, linking the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara.

·       Geopolitically significant, it serves as a boundary between Europe and the westernmost edge of Asia Minor.

·       The name is derived from the ancient city of Dardanus, while in antiquity it was referred to as the Hellespont—named after the mythical princess Helle.

Physical Features

·       It is among the narrowest international navigation straits, extending 61 km in length, with a width that varies between 1.2 and 6.5 km.

·       The Bosporus Strait, another key waterway, connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea. Together, the Dardanelles and Bosporus provide the only maritime link between the Black Sea region and global waters.

Adjacent Landmarks

·       The Gallipoli Peninsula lies along the western bank of the strait.

·       Major Turkish port towns along its shores include Çanakkale, Gallipoli, and Eceabat, all crucial for maritime trade and local economies

Barak River: Impact of Recent Floods on Fisheries

Current Situation

Communities along the Barak River report that their fishing nets remain empty following the June floods, in a region once rich in species such as Hilsa, Rohu, and Catla.

About Barak River

·       Geographical Importance: The Barak River is the second largest river in Northeast India, after the Brahmaputra. It flows through the Indian states of Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam, and extends into Bangladesh.

·       Course and Origin: Originating from the Manipur hills, south of Mao in Senapati district at an elevation of 2,331 meters, it flows along the Nagaland-Manipur border through hilly terrain before entering Assam.
Just before entering Bangladesh, the Barak bifurcates into the Surma River and the Kusiyara River. These two rivers later join to form the Meghna River, which flows southwards, merging with the Padma River before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

·       Length and Basin: The river spans approximately 900 km in total, with 524 km flowing through India, much of it along the Indo-Bangladesh border. The Barak River basin, formed by the Barak and its tributaries, covers parts of India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Forests dominate this basin, accounting for 72.58% of the area, while water bodies make up only 1.92%. It is bordered by the Barail Range to the north, the Naga and Lushai Hills to the east, and Bangladesh to the south and west.

·       Tributaries: Major tributaries feeding the Barak include the Jiri, Chiri, Modhura, Jatinga, Harang, Kalain, Gumra, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, and Katakhal rivers.

·       Basin Context: The Barak basin is part of the larger Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna basin, which covers about one-third of India''s land area.

Sea of Galilee Turns Red – A Climate Warning

Context

In a surprising event, the Sea of Galilee in Israel has turned red, raising public concern. Investigations traced the cause to a bloom of algae species called Botryococcus braunii, attributed to climate change and rising global temperatures.

About the Sea of Galilee

·       Nature: A freshwater lake located in northern Israel, deeply rooted in Christian and Jewish traditions.

·       Names in Scripture: New Testament: Lake of Gennesaret, Old Testament: Sea of Chinnereth

Geographic Setting

·       Located in the Jordan Rift Valley, primarily fed by the Jordan River.

·       Surrounded by: Lower Galilee Hills (west and southwest), Golan Heights (east), Plain of Gennesaret (northwest), Plain of Bet Zayda (northeast) and Yarmūk Valley (southeast)

Key Features

·       Area: 166 sq. km

·       Depth: Up to 48 metres

·       Length: 13 miles; Width: 7 miles

·       Climate: Mild winters (~14°C), hot summers (~31°C)

·       Economic Importance: Source of irrigation, fishing, and tourism, Integral to Israel’s National Water Carrier

·       Cultural Importance: Site of biblical events, including the Sermon on the Mount, and near historic cities like Tiberias and Capernaum

Cause of Red Colouration

·       Algae Species: Botryococcus braunii, known for producing red carotenoid pigments under sunlight.

·       Trigger Conditions: Climate Change-induced warming, Presence of nutrient-rich waters (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus)

Impact

·       Not Dangerous to Humans

·       May cause hypoxia (low oxygen levels) upon decomposition, disrupting aquatic life.

·       Ecosystem Disruption: Algal blooms block sunlight, affecting underwater flora and fauna.

·       Historical Parallel: A similar red tinge appeared in Dead Sea sinkholes (2022) due to algae proliferation.

CATCH Grant Program: Boosting AI in Cancer Care

Recent Launch

The Cancer AI & Technology Challenge (CATCH) Grant Program has been launched by the IndiaAI Independent Business Division (IBD) in partnership with the National Cancer Grid (NCG). This initiative aims to promote AI-based solutions for cancer care across India.

About the CATCH Grant Program

The program is designed to foster innovative AI technologies that enhance various aspects of cancer care, including screening, diagnostics, treatment support, and healthcare operations.

·       Grant Size: Each selected project may receive up to ₹50 lakh, jointly funded by IndiaAI and NCG.

·       Deployment Focus: The initiative aims to enable pilot implementation within NCG’s hospital network. Projects that demonstrate strong clinical results and operational feasibility may qualify for an additional scale-up grant of up to ₹1 crore for broader deployment.

·       Key Categories:

o   AI-powered screening and diagnostics

o   Clinical decision support tools

o   Patient engagement platforms

o   Operational efficiency solutions

o   Research and medical data curation

·       Selection Criteria: Up to 10 projects will be chosen based on their technical maturity, real-world feasibility, and alignment with Indian healthcare delivery needs.

Eligibility Criteria

·       Eligible applicants include startups, healthtech firms, academic bodies, and both public and private hospitals.

·       Joint proposals are encouraged, ideally pairing Clinical Leads (clinicians or hospitals) with Technical Leads (developers or technology firms).

·       The program prioritizes responsible AI development, clinical validation, and practical readiness for Indian healthcare settings.

About IndiaAI

·       IndiaAI functions as an Independent Business Division under the Digital India Corporation (DIC), which falls under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

·       It serves as the implementing agency of the IndiaAI Mission, which seeks to:

o   Democratize access to AI across all societal layers

o   Strengthen India’s leadership in global AI innovation

o   Promote technological independence

o   Ensure the ethical and responsible deployment of AI

India’s Third Launch Pad at Sriharikota by 2029

Context

The Department of Space has officially confirmed that India’s third satellite launch pad at Sriharikota is expected to become fully operational by March 2029.

Overview of the Third Launch Pad (TLP)

• The Third Launch Pad is under construction at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
• This pad is designed to accommodate next-generation rockets, significantly enhancing India’s launch capabilities, especially for heavy-lift and human spaceflight missions.

Key Objectives

• Support NGLV Operations: The pad will facilitate the launch of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), which stands 91 metres tall.
• Backup for LVM3: Provides redundancy to avoid delays in launches in case the existing pad for LVM3 becomes inoperable.
• Enable Human Spaceflight: Will play a vital role in missions like Gaganyaan and future crewed spaceflights.
• Support Deep Space Missions: Will be instrumental in enabling lunar landings, interplanetary explorations, and space station assembly.

Key Features

• Advanced Propellant Compatibility: Engineered to handle cryogenic and semi-cryogenic fuels for high-thrust missions.
• Make in India Integration: Actively involves MSMEs and private players in the infrastructure build-out.
• Enhanced Scale and Capacity: The NGLV is twice as tall as the LVM3, equipped with upgraded jet deflection systems for more complex missions.
• Modular Construction: Uses a multi-package approach to accelerate development and enhance efficiency.

Significance

• Strategic Redundancy: Reduces mission delays by eliminating dependence on a single launch pad.
• Future-Ready Infrastructure: Designed to support advanced rockets, higher payloads, and new propulsion systems.
• Boost to Space Economy: Strengthens India''s role in commercial space launches, supports indigenous manufacturing, and increases private sector involvement.

MERITE Scheme: Transforming Technical Education in India

Introduction

The Union Cabinet has recently approved the launch of the Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme—a landmark step aimed at upgrading the quality and inclusiveness of India’s technical education system.

About the MERITE Scheme

·       Type: A Central Sector Scheme

·       Coverage: To be implemented across all States and Union Territories in government engineering institutions and Polytechnics.

·       International Collaboration: Developed in partnership with the World Bank.

Objectives and Goals

The primary goal is to enhance: Quality of education, Equity in access and Governance mechanisms in technical institutions

These objectives align with the transformative vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring a holistic and skill-driven learning experience for students.

Funding Structure

·       Total outlay: ₹4,200 crore for the period 2025–26 to 2029–30

·       World Bank contribution: ₹2,100 crore (as external loan assistance)

·       The funds will be distributed via a Central Nodal Agency to the participating institutions.

Implementation Partners

·       Key academic and regulatory institutions such as: IITs, IIMs, AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) and NBA (National Board of Accreditation)

·       These institutions will contribute to both strategy and execution under the scheme.

Major Interventions

The scheme takes a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to improve outcomes:

·       Industry-aligned curriculum upgrades

·       Internship opportunities for real-world exposure

·       Faculty development programs

·       Creation of research hubs and innovation centers

·       Establishment of maker labs, skill labs, and language workshops

Expected Benefits and Reach

·       About 275 government and government-aided institutions are expected to benefit, including: Selected National Institutes of Technology (NITs), State engineering colleges, Polytechnic institutions and Affiliating Technical Universities (ATUs)

·       Additionally, technical education departments at the state/UT level will receive support for capacity-building and policy execution.

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

Context

The Government of India has extended the ₹300 LPG cylinder subsidy for PMUY beneficiaries through FY 2025–26.

Overview of PMUY

·       A flagship scheme offering deposit-free LPG connections to women from economically weaker households.

·       Aims to replace polluting traditional cooking fuels with clean energy, advancing health, environmental sustainability, and gender empowerment.

·       Launched: May 2016 in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh

·       Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG)

Objectives

·       Ensure universal access to clean cooking fuel.

·       Mitigate indoor air pollution and associated health risks.

·       Alleviate the physical burden on rural women, improving their quality of life.

·       Promote environmental conservation by curbing deforestation and emissions.

Eligibility Criteria

·       Adult women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.

·       Identified using SECC 2011 (Socio-Economic Caste Census).

·       PMUY 2.0 includes a special provision for migrant households lacking permanent address proof.

Achievements

·       PMUY 1.0: Achieved the target of 8 crore LPG connections ahead of the March 2020 deadline.

·       PMUY 2.0: Added 1.6 crore connections for migrant families.

·       Latest Target: Expanded by 75 lakh connections, raising the cumulative target to 10.35 crore beneficiaries.

Key Features

·       Deposit-Free Connections: Eligible households receive LPG without paying a security deposit.

·       Financial Support for Stoves: Assistance provided to help buy a cooking stove for immediate use.

·       Subsidy of ₹300 per Cylinder: Available for up to nine 14.2 kg cylinders annually (or proportionally for 5 kg ones).

·       Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Subsidy credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account, ensuring transparency.

·       “Swachh Indhan Behtar Jeevan”: Promotes clean fuel for better health, air quality, and sustainable cooking practices.

S.H.I.N.E. Initiative

Context

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Department of Health Research (DHR) held a nationwide Open Day under the SHINE initiative, with over 13,000 students participating.

What is SHINE?

·       Full Form: Science, Health and Innovation for Nextgen Explorers

·       A national outreach programme designed to encourage school students to pursue careers in health and biomedical research.

·       Launched: 2024

·       Organised By: ICMR in collaboration with DHR

Aims

·       Stimulate curiosity and innovation among students.

·       Introduce students to real-life applications of medical research and its role in public health improvement.

Key Features

·       Nationwide Reach: Engaged 13,150 students from grades 9–12, spanning over 300 schools in 39 districts across 16 states/UTs.

·       Interactive Learning: Activities included lab tours, research showcases, poster walks, and live demonstrations.

·       Career Exposure: Enabled direct interaction with ICMR scientists who shared career insights and research experiences.

·       Student Mascot: Introduction of Dr. Curio, a mascot designed to make science engagement relatable and fun.

·       Media Showcase: Short films presented on Covaxin, iDRONE, the TB elimination mission, and pandemic readiness.

Significance

·       Youth Engagement in STEM: Bridges the gap between classroom learning and hands-on science.

·       Public Health Awareness: Educates young minds on key health challenges and how scientific research contributes to solutions.

Shri Banke Bihari Temple: Supreme Court’s Reaction to PIL

Judicial Update

The Supreme Court of India has expressed disapproval over the Allahabad High Court''s recent orders in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the historic Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. The Supreme Court questioned the use of what it called “intemperate language” directed at the Uttar Pradesh government.

About Shri Banke Bihari Temple

·       Location and Dedication: This famous Hindu temple, located in the holy city of Vrindavan in Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

·       Etymology: The name “Banke” means bent, while “Bihari” derives from Vihari, meaning enjoyer. The principal deity in the temple is Lord Krishna, depicted in the ‘tribhanga’ posture, bent at three angles, hence the name “Banke.”

·       Historical Background: The temple was established by Swami Haridas, who was the guru of the legendary singer Tansen. The current temple complex housing Banke Bihari was built in 1864 and stands as a remarkable example of Indian craftsmanship.

·       Architectural Features: Its architecture exhibits strong Rajasthani influences, with magnificent arches and pillars. The temple walls and ceiling are adorned with oil paintings depicting various deities.

·       Unique Characteristics: Unlike many temples, the Banke Bihari Temple does not have bells or conchs on its premises.

·       Role in Freedom Struggle: During India’s struggle for independence, this temple was a hub for revolutionary activities, including the secret publication of the revolutionary newspaper “Bundelkhand Kesari.”

Lepcha Tribe: Indigenous Guardians of the Eastern Himalayas

Cultural Highlight

The state of Sikkim recently celebrated Tendong Lho Rum Faat, a traditional festival rooted in nature worship, observed by the Lepcha tribe.

Geographical and Ethnic Roots

• The Lepchas are an indigenous ethnic group found in eastern Nepal, western Bhutan, Sikkim, and the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
• Recognised as a Scheduled Tribe in Sikkim, they refer to themselves as ‘Rongs’ or ‘Rongkups’.
• Their settlements span from the lowlands of the Sikkim basin (230 m) up to the summit of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), a mountain revered as their guardian deity.

Cultural Identity and Language

• They are considered the original inhabitants of Sikkim but have historically assimilated aspects of Bhutia culture, which arrived from Tibet in the 14th century.
• Despite some intermarriage, Lepchas maintain distinct linguistic and cultural identities, with their own Lepcha language, which uses a script derived from Sanskrit.

Demographics and Livelihood

• As per the 2011 Census, their population stands at approximately 42,909, marking them as a dwindling tribal group.
• Historically hunters and gatherers, they now also engage in agriculture and livestock rearing.

Spiritual and Social Life

• Traditionally, Lepchas practiced nature worship, believed in spirits and witchcraft, but eventually embraced Buddhism.
• Their festivals typically involve archery contests, singing, and dancing, reflecting a strong communal and spiritual culture.

Khorramshahr-5: Iran’s Suspected Entry into ICBM Capabilities

Current Reports

Recent intelligence indicates that Iran may be preparing to test its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)—the Khorramshahr-5—marking a significant advancement in its missile program.

About Khorramshahr-5

·       Missile Type: The Khorramshahr-5 is believed to be a newly developed intercontinental ballistic missile by Iran.

·       Range & Payload: Reports suggest the missile has a maximum range of 12,000 kilometers and is capable of carrying a warhead weighing up to two tons.

·       Speed: The missile reportedly reaches speeds of Mach 16, or roughly 20,000 km/h, aligning with the velocities typical of advanced ICBMs during mid-flight or terminal phases.

What is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)?

·       Definition: An ICBM is a long-range missile system primarily intended for delivering nuclear warheads over large distances.

·       Range: Capable of traveling over 5,500 km, with some models extending up to 16,000 km.

·       Speed: Typically exceed 20,000 km/h, making them extremely hard to intercept.

·       Payload: Designed to carry nuclear warheads, though in rare cases may transport chemical or biological agents.

·       Launch Platforms: Can be launched from land-based silos, mobile launchers, or submarines.

Countries with Operational ICBMs

·       Nuclear States with ICBMs: Russia, United States, China, France, India, United Kingdom, Israel and North Korea

·       India’s Capability: India operates the Agni-V, a solid-fuel ICBM designed for strategic deterrence.

Steel Import Monitoring System 2.0 Portal

Recent Update

The Government of India has recently revised the advance registration timeline required for applying on the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) 2.0 portal for importing most steel products, with some exceptions.

About SIMS 2.0 Portal

·       Launched by the Union Ministry of Steel, the SIMS portal was originally introduced in 2019 to provide detailed data on steel imports for the benefit of the domestic industry.

·       The upgraded SIMS 2.0 portal enhances this by delivering advanced information on steel imports not only to the government but also to all relevant stakeholders.

·       Its features include API integration with several government portals, which improves quality control while streamlining processes for higher efficiency and effectiveness.

·       The portal incorporates a robust data entry mechanism ensuring the data remains authentic and consistent, fostering transparency and accountability.

·       By integrating multiple databases, it enables stakeholders to identify risk zones and manage these risks better.

·       Responding to feedback from the steel sector, the Ministry revamped the portal to launch a more effective SIMS 2.0, marking a significant advancement in monitoring steel imports and supporting the growth of the domestic steel industry.

Significance

·       The detailed data provided by SIMS 2.0 serves as vital input for policymaking.

·       It also signals opportunities for production expansion and growth within the domestic steel sector.

FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) – July 2025 Update

Context

The FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) rose to 130.1 points in July 2025, the highest level in over two years, mainly due to record-high meat prices and a sharp rise in vegetable oil prices, despite declines in cereals, dairy, and sugar.

What is FFPI?

·       The FFPI is a monthly indicator that tracks changes in global prices of a selected basket of key food commodities.

·       Published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

History & Methodology

·       Launched: 1996

·       Revised: July 2020 – base period updated and commodity coverage expanded.

Purpose

·       Acts as a global reference tool to monitor food price trends and market fluctuations.

·       Supports policy decisions, agricultural planning, and food security analysis for governments, researchers, and market analysts.

How It Works

·       Commodity Groups: Monitors five key groups: Cereals, Vegetable oils, Dairy, Meat, Sugar

·       Weightage: Based on average export shares (2014–2016).

·       Price Basis: Relies on international export prices (not local retail/wholesale prices).

·       Index Types: Combines nominal and real price indices for long-term comparison.

·       Data Source: Monthly updates based on global trade data.

Key Features

·       Individual Commodity Indices: Separate sub-indices for all five commodity groups.

·       Global Recognition: Widely adopted by policy institutions, financial bodies, and food monitoring agencies.

·       Market Drivers: Reflects influences such as climate events, geopolitical shifts, demand-supply dynamics, and policy changes.

·       Policy Tool: Helps analyze inflation trends, trade policies, and emergency food needs.

Note: As FFPI is released monthly, the figures change regularly. For exam purposes, focus on the structure and significance of the index, not specific data points.

Rudrastra – Asia’s Longest Freight Train

Context

Indian Railways has successfully completed a trial run of “Rudrastra”, a 4.5 km-long freight train, marking a major advancement in freight transportation efficiency in Asia.

Overview

·       A massive freight train formed by combining six standard rakes into a single operational unit. Recognized as India’s longest and one of Asia’s longest freight trains.

·       Trial Route: Conducted between Ganjkhwaja (Uttar Pradesh) and Garhwa (Jharkhand).

·       Operated by Indian Railways, under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (DDU) Division of the East Central Railway.

·       Coordinated with the Dhanbad Division for smooth operational execution.

Objectives

·       Freight Efficiency: Move larger cargo volumes in a single operation.

·       Operational Simplification: Minimize complexities in crew deployment, scheduling, and routing.

·       Resource Optimization: Reduce fuel use, manpower, and transit time.

Key Specifications

·       Length: 4.5 to 5 km

·       Wagons: 354, each with approx. 72 tonnes capacity

·       Locomotives: 7 engines (2 at front, others interspersed)

·       Speed: Averaged 40 km/h over a 209 km stretch

·       Formation: Three long-haul units (each formed by two trains) joined together

·       Track Type: Operated partly on Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) and partly on conventional lines

Significance

·       Economic Impact: Cuts costs by reducing the need for multiple trains.

·       Efficiency: Enhances loading/unloading speed and shortens delivery times.

·       Global Positioning: Strengthens India’s standing in long-haul freight logistics, although it still trails Australia’s 7.3 km benchmark.