Structures in Mehrauli park bear religious significance, ASI tells SC

•  The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has told the Supreme Court that two structures inside the Mehrauli Archaeological Park bear religious significance as Muslim devotees visit daily to the Ashiq Allah Dargah and Chillagah of Baba Farid, the revered 13th century sufi saint.
• In a report submitted before the top court, the ASI said an inscription on the tomb of Shaikh Shahibuddin (Ashiq Allah) says it was constructed in the year 1317 AD.
• “The structural modifications and alterations for the sake of restoration and conservation have impacted the historicity of the place," ASI said, adding that the tomb was close to the citadel of Prithviraj Chauhan and “falls within the regulated zone of 200 m according to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act”.

Mehrauli Archeological Park:

• The Mehrauli Archeological Park is situated in Delhi, beside the Qutub complex.
• It is the only area in Delhi that had 1,000 years of continuous occupation by the rule of the Khalji dynasty, Tughlaq dynasty, Lodhi dynasty, Mughal empire, and British Raj.
• The Park includes the ruins of Lal Kot built by Tomar Rajputs in 1060 CE. This makes it the oldest extant fort in Delhi. 
• It includes over 100 historically significant monuments which reflect the Indo-Ialamic architecture.

These monuments include:

• Tomb of Balban: India’s first true arch and dome
• Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb: Shows transition from Lodhi dynasty architecture to Mughal architecture. It is named after the Sufi saint Jamali and his companion Kamali.
• Quli Khan’s Tomb: A monument of national importance
• Gandhak ki Baoli: A large step well built by Sultan Iltutmish in 13th century
• Madhi Masjid: Peaceful surroundings amidst mango orchards
• Rajon ki Baoli, and a stepwell: Symmetrical steps and arched niches

IPBES report highlights Indigenous & local knowledge as key to ‘transformative change’

•  The Nexus Assessment, comprising three years of work from 165 leading international experts across 57 countries, found that existing actions to address these challenges fail to tackle the complexity of interlinked problems, with real consequences.
•  “These IPBES reports come at a pivotal time as we enter 2025 after a disappointing season of international conventions on nature, climate and plastic pollution,”.
• “With just five years left until 2030 when critical global commitments should be met, the reports should serve as a welcoming guide for decisionmakers, giving them a clear science-backed roadmap to address the multiple crises the planet is facing.”
• The reports will be key in helping to meet global international commitments, like those of the Paris Agreement, the Global Biodiversity Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, all coalescing around the 2030 period.
• “The Nexus Assessment reveals the deep interconnections between biodiversity, water, food, health and climate – demonstrating that tackling these challenges together is our only path to sustainability.
• “The report highlights the disproportionate impacts faced by low–and middle–income countries, socioeconomically disadvantaged people in higher-income countries and Indigenous Peoples.
• By synthesizing future scenarios and offering actionable, science-based solutions, the report sets a new benchmark for confronting intertwined global crises.
• “Our goal is to empower governments, communities and businesses to take coordinated and integrated approaches to address these growing risks, delivering just and sustainable outcomes for both people and the planet”
• A number of statistics are included in the report, such as an estimate of 2-6% of biodiversity decline per decade across all assessed indicators for the last 30-50 years, while more than 50% of global populations are said to be living in areas experiencing the highest impacts from declines in biodiversity, water availability and quality, food security, increases in health risks and negative effects of climate change.  
• The research aims to direct policymakers to a series of scenarios and response options – assessing 186 different scenarios from 52 different studies, projecting interactions between three or more of the nexus elements between the periods up to 2050 and 2100.
• It also stresses the importance of holistically addressing problems, for example a ‘food first’ approach might reap benefits for nutritional health, but could have negative impacts on biodiversity, water and climate change.
• Likewise, exclusively focusing on climate, commonly dubbed “carbon tunnel syndrome”, can result in negative outcomes for food or biodiversity.
• More than 70  options are presented to help manage the nexus elements, including restoring carbon rich-ecosystems, such as forests, soils, mangroves; managing biodiversity to reduce risk of diseases spreading from animals to humans; improving integrated landscape and seascape management; urban nature-based solutions, sustainable healthy diets, and supporting Indigenous food systems.
• The Transformative Change report, prepared over three years by more than 100 leading experts from 42 countries, considers what transformative change is, how it occurs, and how to accelerate it for a just and sustainable world.
•  The report argues that transformative change addresses the underlying causes of biodiversity loss, and should be underpinned by values of equity and justice to minimize tradeoffs and unintended consequences.
• The report emphasizes that fundamental shifts in the way we see, act within, and organize society, are key to enabling the transition, with dominant economic and financial paradigms prioritizing nature and social equity over private interests, being critical. 
• Identified as a key barrier to change is that government actions are often undermined by a mismatch between the scale of biodiversity challenges and the jurisdiction of separate, siloed institutions or the length of time for policy implementation compared to the length of time between elections that can bring new political powers opposing such policies. 
• Underlying causes of biodiversity loss are reported to include the disconnection from and domination over nature and people; the concentration of power and wealth; and prioritization of short-term, individual, and material gains.
•  Notably, the report finds that stewardship of nature by Indigenous Peoples and local communities contributes to transformative change when it is well-supported, focused on important places for biodiversity, and when people’s rights are recognized. 
• “The report stresses that amplifying civil society initiatives, while protecting environmental defenders from violence and violations of their rights is key to achieving a just and sustainable world,”
•  “Central to this is ensuring that the resumed session of the UN biodiversity conference (COP16) in Rome this February concludes with a financial package that accurately addresses the needs of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
• It’s crucial that this funding can also flow directly to Indigenous communities, many of whom are safeguarding these spaces for the benefit of the entire planet
• The report, the first of its kind looking at the interconnections between multiple crises, has been produced by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).

Key findings of the report:

Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)           

• It is an independent intergovernmental body established in 2012.
• It provides policymakers with objective scientific assessments of the state of knowledge about the planet''s biodiversity, ecosystems, and the benefits they provide to humans, as well as the tools and methods to protect and sustainably use these vital natural assets.
• This independent body was inspired by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment.
• It is not a body of the United Nations.  However, at the request of the IPBES Plenary and with the approval of the UNEP Governing Council in 2013, the IPBES Secretariat is provided by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). India is a member country of this organization. Organization structure
• Plenary session: The IPBES governing body – composed of representatives of the IPBES member states – usually meets once a year.
• Observers: Any State not already a member of IPBES; Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and other biodiversity-related conventions; relevant UN bodies; as well as many other relevant organizations and agencies.
• Bureau: Consists of the IPBES Chairman, four Vice-Chairmen, and five other officers who oversee the administrative functions of IPBES.
• Multidisciplinary Expert Panel (MEP): Five expert participants from each of the five UN regions who oversee all scientific and technical functions of IPBES.
• Stakeholders: All contributors and end users of IPBES outputs.
• Expert groups and working groups: Selected scientists and knowledge holders conducting the IPBES evaluation and other outputs.
• Secretariat (includes technical support units): Ensures the effective functioning of IPBES through support for the Plenary, Bureau, and Members of the European Parliament, as well as the implementation of the working and administrative functions of the platform.

 Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants Released for Rajasthan , Odisha.

• The Union Government has released Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants during Financial Year 2024–25, for Rural Local Bodies in Rajasthan and Odisha. 
• For Rajasthan, 2^nd installment of Untied Grants of the Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.560.63 crore along with the withheld amount of 1^st installment of Untied Grants for Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.53.4123 crore has been released.
• These funds are for 10105 eligible Gram Panchayats, 315 eligible Block Panchayats and 20 eligible District Panchayats of the State.
• While for Rural Local Bodies in Odisha, 2nd installment of Untied Grants of the Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.370.20 crore along with the withheld amount of 1st installment of Untied Grants for Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.84.5086 crore has been released. These funds are for all eligible 6794 Gram Panchayats, 314 Block Panchayats and 30 District Panchayats of the State.
• The Untied Grants will be utilized by the  Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)/ Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) for location-specific felt needs, under the Twenty-Nine (29) Subjects enshrined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, except for salaries and other establishment costs.
• The Tied Grants can be used for the basic services of (a) sanitation and maintenance of ODF status, and this should include management and treatment of household waste, and human excreta and fecal sludge management in particular and (b) supply of drinking water, rainwater harvesting and water recycling.
• Government of India through Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation) recommends release of Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants to States for Rural Local Bodies which are then released by Ministry of Finance. The allocated Grants are recommended and released in 2 installments in a Financial Year.
• The Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants provided to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) / Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) play a crucial role in strengthening grassroots democracy. This financial support is improving rural local governance, enhancing accountability, and promoting self-reliance in villages.

Overview of XV FC Grants

• The XV FC Grants are allocated to rural local bodies to address specific local needs. The grants are divided into untied and tied categories. Untied grants can be used for various developmental activities, while tied grants are earmarked for specific services like sanitation and drinking water.
• In Uttar Pradesh, the second installment of untied grants amounts to ₹1598.80 crores. This funding is available for all eligible district, block, and gram panchayats in the state. In Andhra Pradesh, the second installment totals ₹420.9989 crores, along with ₹25.4898 crores from the withheld first installment. This funding supports numerous elected local bodies.
• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Jal Shakti play crucial roles in recommending and facilitating the release of these grants. The Ministry of Finance ultimately disburses the funds. This collaborative approach ensures that financial support reaches the intended local bodies efficiently.
• The grants are intended for various development projects, excluding salaries and establishment costs. Local bodies can utilise these funds for projects aligned with the 29 subjects in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution. This flexibility enables them to address specific community needs effectively.
• The direct channeling of funds to PRIs is step towards empowering rural governance. This initiative enhances accountability and encourages self-reliance among local institutions. The government aims to encourage a sense of ownership within communities, allowing them to shape their own development.
• The grants are aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of inclusive growth. They aim to deepen democratic participation at the grassroots level. Empowered local institutions are expected to drive change and contribute to the broader goal of Viksit Bharat, where every village plays a role in national prosperity.
• While the initiative is promising, challenges remain. Ensuring proper utilisation of funds is crucial. There is also a need for capacity building among local bodies to manage and implement projects effectively. Continuous monitoring and evaluation will be essential for the success of this initiative.

WHO charts roadmap to combat antibiotic shortages in low- and middle-income countries

• The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP), recently released a report titled Policy and Regulatory Interventions to Address Antibiotic Shortages in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.
•  The report is based on a review of measures undertaken by National Regulatory Authorities (NRA) in high-income countries (HIC), upper-middle-income countries, and low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) to address the critical issue of antibiotic shortages.
• GARDP is an organisation focused on developing new treatments to combat drug-resistant infections while ensuring their responsible use and sustainable access.
• This study was conducted to anticipate and prevent antibiotic shortages.
• WHO defines antibiotic shortages as a scenario in which “the supply of approved and marketed medicines, health products and vaccines identified as essential by the health system is insufficient to meet public health and patient needs”. This is distinct from stock-outs, defined as the “complete absence of the medicine, health product or vaccine at the point of service delivery to the patient”.
• Antibiotic shortages contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in several ways, according to the report.
• AMR occurs when bacteria and other microbes no longer respond to medicines, resulting in increased illness and a higher risk of infection spread. AMR is an urgent global health and development threat.
• A shortage of antibiotics can delay or interrupt ongoing treatment, allowing bacteria more time to adapt and develop resistance. It can also lead to the use of substandard or falsified antibiotics that may not work effectively, causing treatment failure and promoting resistance. 
• Additionally, shortages often necessitate the use of broader-spectrum antibiotics, which can exert unnecessary selective pressure and reduce their long-term effectiveness, further exacerbating resistance. Addressing antibiotic shortages is thus vital to combating AMR effectively.
• The report categories shortages in antibiotics at three levels ─ global, national and subnational and identifies measures to tackle them. Globally, shortages are due to weak supply chains and the limited number of manufacturers. 
• Nationally, access issues arise as a result of high prices that neither healthcare systems nor patients can afford. Furthermore, many countries lack monitoring systems capable of predicting demand for manufacturers in advance.
• At the subnational level, stock-outs often result due to inefficient distribution of stock, poor infrastructure and transport networks.
• In an international workshop on AMR organised by the Delhi-based think tank Centre for Science and Environment in April 2024, national AMR focal points from African and Asian nations, along with global experts recognised that access to antibiotics is a big concern in LMICs.
• Most antibiotics developed over the last several years got introduced only in few out of many rich countries. This was largely due to the high cost of marketing and making them available but low expected returns either due to volumes, price or both. 
• Furthermore, the northern richer countries are experiencing stockouts as antibiotics are withdrawn from their markets due to a lack of profitability. It could also be that antibiotics could be prior registered but not introduced in several countries due to commercial interests or regulatory burden.
• Inaccessibility could also be due to supply chain hurdles, procurement constraints, or affordability concerns.
• The report noted that the problem of antibiotic shortages has not received enough attention, particularly in LMICs.
• For instance, most LMIC NRAs lack an official mandate to address shortages. Additionally, antibiotic shortages are often masked by frequent stock-outs and circulation of substandard or falsified medicines.
• There is need for stringent enforcement mechanisms so that these unregulated products are removed from the market, the paper stated. 
• The report further explored whether the approach taken by HIC NRAs can be used in LMIC NRAs and other authorities to manage antibiotic shortages. Based on a comprehensive review of ongoing activities to address antibiotic shortages, it outlined five categories of measures that can be adopted: 
• Enhance flexibility for acute shortages: A flexible approach from countries is essential in managing acute shortages of critical medicines. This can include allowing temporary imports, extending the expiry dates safely and waiving specific testing requirements. 
• Strengthen sourcing: It focuses on anticipating shortages by strengthening procurement and manufacture of products. Measures such as multiple suppliers, encouraging local production, and maintaining buffer stocks have been highlighted. 
• Increase visibility: This includes information-sharing on potential future and existing shortages. It’s important to understand how medicines move within the country and where shortages might happen.
• Institutionalize collaboration: This means setting up systems to handle future shortages better by creating emergency plans and building strong working relationships.
• Strengthen foundation: It is pivotal to strengthen the core functions of the NRA which include improving regulatory approval processes, ensuring quality control and effective enforcement. 
• These recommendations provide a roadmap for countries to strengthen their health infrastructure and protect against future crises. When implemented holistically, these can help prevent shortages and prepare a country to act rapidly when necessary. 
• The report also stressed that ensuring access to essential antibiotics is a critical step in safeguarding healthcare systems worldwide.

Congress to commemorate 100th anniversary of Belgaum session

• The The Indian National Congress (INC) is holding a special event in Belagavi (formerly Belgaum), Karnataka on December 26-27, 2024, to mark 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi presided over a key Congress session in 1924.
• This event is important not only for remembering Gandhi''s leadership but also for planning the Congress party’s future direction.

 Historical context of Belgaum session

• The ‘Belgaum’ session of 1924, led by Mahatma Gandhi, marked a pivotal moment when he outlined his vision for non-violence, communal harmony, and swaraj (self-rule), shaping India’s future freedom movement.
• The people of Belgaum invited Gandhiji shortly after his return from South Africa to attend the Home Rule League’s first session, where he would share the stage with leaders like Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. However, some Congress leaders opposed the visit, wary of an independent faction within the party.
• However, Gangadhar Rao Deshpande, a veteran Congress leader and Khadi activist, in 1916, one of the four general secretaries of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) and a native of Hudali in Belgaum district, supported Gandhiji’s visit.
• He wrote to him, prompting the famous reply. That marked Gandhiji’s first visit to Belgaum.
• “Only death can prevent me from visiting Belgaum,” Mahatma Gandhi wrote in a letter to Deshpande. 
• However, in 1924, Gandhiji hesitated to visit Belgaum, believing his efforts would be better spent addressing the unrest in riot-stricken regions of North India. Yet, the organisers succeeded in persuading him to attend
• The session became significant, as Gandhiji’s chairmanship led to important changes in both the organisational structure and functioning of the Congress party. To celebrate and remember that ‘Belgaum’ session, Congress is extending its working committee’s session by two days. 
• Mahatma Gandhi had just been released from prison in February 1924 after a surgery. He was concerned about the lack of unity between Hindus and Muslims and internal problems within the Congress.
• Gandhi undertook a 21-day fast (from September 18 to October 8, 1924) to encourage unity and address the divide.

Main Issues Addressed by Gandhi:

• Hindu-Muslim Unity: Gandhi believed unity between Hindus and Muslims was essential for the country’s progress.
• Fighting Internal Division: Gandhi wanted to stop the infighting within Congress.
• Non-Violence and Self-Rule: He promoted non-violence and self-rule (swaraj) as the keys to India’s freedom.

Why Is the 1924 Session So Important?

• First Time Gandhi Led Congress:
• Gandhi presided over the Congress Working Committee (CWC) for the first time in 1924. This was the only time he was the Congress president.

Gandhi’s Teachings:

• Gandhi explained his non-violence philosophy, emphasizing that non-violent actions are more powerful than violence.
• He also talked about the importance of unity and removing untouchability to achieve swaraj (self-rule).
• He suggested that the court of appeals be moved from London to Delhi, and the language of government should be Hindustani.
• Gandhi also encouraged people to spinning and weaving khadi as part of their contribution to the freedom struggle.
• Gandhi’s focus on khadi helped spread it across the country, especially in villages.
• The session led to greater participation of peasants in Congress activities, strengthening their role in the freedom movement.

Hindu-Muslim Unity:

• Gandhi’s emphasis on unity between Hindus and Muslims remains relevant today, as communal tensions are still a major issue in India.

Removing Untouchability:

• Gandhi’s fight against untouchability resonates with Congress’s ongoing focus on Dalit rights and the empowerment of oppressed groups.

Two red pandas reach Darjeeling Zoo from Rotterdam in the Netherlands

• The Two red pandas reached the Darjeeling Zoo from Rotterdam in the Netherlands on Christmas, bringing joy and excitement among the zoo personnel and the forest fraternity in West Bengal.
• No red pandas were brought from any foreign country in the past 10 years
• The animals have been brought to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PMZP), also known as Darjeeling Zoo, for conservation breeding purposes
•  Named the two red pandas as Vishal and Koshi.
• “Currently, the zoo has 19 red pandas (seven males, 12 females, and two cubs),” he said.
• The PMZP boasts of the most successful breeding programme for red pandas in the country.
• "We are on a course of the long-term plan, centring the PMZP, which possesses a typical climatic condition conducive for animals like red pandas and other animals having their habitat in snowy regions,”
• In 1990, the Darjeeling Zoo had one male and three female red pandas of wild origin.
• The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is a small mammal native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China.
• The red panda (Ailurus fulgens), also known as the lesser panda, is a small mammal found in the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China.
• It is distinct from the giant panda, though both share the same family, Ailuridae.
• Endangered Status: Red pandas are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to a significant decline in their population.
• There are estimated to be fewer than 10,000 red pandas left in the wild, primarily due to habitat destruction, poaching, and fragmentation of their natural habitats.
• Habitat: Red pandas inhabit temperate forests at high altitudes, where they feed on bamboo, acorns, and various fruits.
• Their populations are scattered and face continuous threats from human activities

Conservation and Breeding Programme

• Purpose of the Gift: The primary objective behind introducing these two red pandas is to enhance the genetic diversity of the red panda population at PNZP.
• This is crucial for strengthening the breeding program, as it helps avoid inbreeding and improves the long-term genetic health of the species in captivity.
• Breeding Program History: Established in 1986, the PNZP has been a leader in red panda conservation in India.
• It follows the Global Captive Breeding Masterplan for red pandas and has developed a reputation for being one of the most successful breeding programs for this species.
• At present, the zoo has 7 male and 12 female red pandas, in addition to two cubs.
• The sex of the cubs is not yet determined.

Role of Genetic Diversity in Conservation

• The introduction of Vishal and Koshi from Rotterdam Zoo aims to bring in fresh genetic material.
• This is important because inbreeding within a small population can lead to genetic problems and weaken the species’ ability to adapt to environmental changes.
• By diversifying the gene pool, the zoo can ensure that the red panda population remains strong, healthy, and more resilient to potential diseases or environmental stressors.

 PM Modi chairs meeting of PRAGATI, reviews projects worth over Rs 1 trn

•  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday chaired the meeting of the ICT-based multi-modal platform PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) involving the Centre and state governments, and reviewed projects worth over Rs one trillion.
• An official statement said eight significant projects, which included six metro train projects and one project each related to road connectivity and thermal power, were reviewed in the meeting.
• Modi stressed that all government officials must recognise that project delays not only escalate costs but also hinder the public from receiving the intended benefits.
• Noting that more and more cities are coming up with metro projects as one of the preferred public transport systems, he called for conducting workshops for cities where projects are under implementation or in the pipeline to capture the best practices and learnings from past experiences.
• During the review, Modi stressed the importance of timely rehabilitation and resettlement of project-affected families and asked to ensure ease of living for such families by providing quality amenities at the new place.
• The prime minister also reviewed the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and directed that the capacity of rooftop installations be enhanced in the states and Union territories by developing a quality vendor ecosystem.
• He further directed that the time required in the process, starting from demand generation to operationalisation of rooftop solar be reduced.
• In the meeting, eight significant projects were reviewed, which included six metro projects and one project each relating to road connectivity and thermal power. The combined cost of these projects, spread across different states/UTs, is more than Rs 1 lakh crore.
• Modi stressed that all government officials must recognise that project delays not only escalate costs but also hinder the public from receiving the intended benefits.
• Noting that more and more cities are coming up with metro projects as one of the preferred public transport systems, he called for conducting workshops for cities where projects are under implementation or in the pipeline to capture the best practices and learnings from past experiences.

What is PRAGATI?

• PRAGATI is the acronym for the ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation.
•  It is a three-tier system consisting of the PMO, Union government secretaries and chief secretaries of the states.
• The system has been designed by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) with the help of National Informatics Center (NIC). 
• The platform is aimed at addressing the common man’s grievances, and simultaneously monitoring and reviewing important programmes and projects of the central as well as state governments.

Its objectives are:

• i) Grievance redressal
• ii) Programme implementation
• iii) Project monitoring.

The PRAGATI platform bundles three technologies: 

• i) Digital data management
• ii) Video-conferencing
• iii) Geo-spatial technology. 
• It offers a unique combination in the direction of cooperative federalism since it brings on one stage the secretaries of government of India and the chief secretaries of the states. With this, the Prime Minister is able to discuss the issues with the concerned central and state officials with full information and latest visuals of the ground level situation.
•  It is a robust system for bringing e-transparency and e-accountability with real-time presence and exchange among the key stakeholders. It is also an innovative project in e-governance and good governance. 
•  The first meeting was held on March 25, 2015. During PRAGATI meetings, 363 projects having a total cost of around Rs 19.12 lakh crore have been reviewed till now

India: Why is strengthening fisheries extension services crucial?

• India possesses diverse fisheries resources that provide livelihood opportunities to approximately three crore fishers and fish farmers.
• The country has witnessed an 83% increase in the national fish production since 2013-14, that stands at a record 175 lakh tons in 2022-23. With 75% of this coming from inland fisheries, India is the second-largest fish and aquaculture producer globally. In this backdrop, strengthening last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services is of paramount importance.
• Experts contend that such extension should provide request-based services to fishers/fish farmers on the life cycle of improved species cultured, water quality, disease, and available rearing technologies; address issues faced by seed growers and hatcheries; and conduct need-based training to promote sustainable practices and fisheries-based activities that have the potential to be viable business models.
• Improving last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services is essential. Experts argue that such extension should provide fishers/fish farmers with request-based services on the life cycle of improved species cultured, water quality, disease, and available rearing technologies.

What is the role of Matsya Seva Kendras?

• Under the flagship Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samapada Yojana, ‘Matsya Seva Kendras’ (MSK) has been envisioned as one-stop solution to provide a range of extension services by trained aquaculture professionals.
• The governmental assistance to set up such Kendras for women and weaker sections is available to the extent of 60%. Funds have been provided to State governments and Union Territories for operationalising 102 such Kendras.
• For example, the MSK in Thrissur, Kerala has a well-equipped lab for water, soil, and microbial analysis to conduct request-based disease tests, while the MSK in Nasik and Sangli districts in Maharashtra focuses on capacity building for fishers/fish farmers on varied seed/feed inputs backed with the required technology infusion.
• Fostering a ‘whole of government approach,’ the Government of India advises MSKs to mobilise start-ups, cooperatives, fish farmers’ producer organisations, joint liability groups, and self-help groups to share best practices. The latter includes regenerative and conservation management practises for both inland and marine fisheries in view of the effects of climate change.

What is the importance of fisheries extension services in India?

• Fisheries extension services play an important role in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and fish farmers'' daily operations. 
• These services promote the transmission of critical knowledge on fish species management, water quality, disease control, and rearing technologies. 
• They train fishers in sustainable practices and promote fisheries as a viable business model. 
• This is becoming increasingly important, especially in considering issues such as climate change and overfishing.

How do Sagar Mitras support fishers?

• Another innovative extension initiative by the government is the deployment of “Sagar Mitras” in coastal States and U.T.s as a vital interface between the government and sea-borne fishers.
• They compile information and data on daily marine catch, price fluctuations, and requisite marketing needs at fish landing centres/harbours.
• They disseminate information to fishers on local regulations, weather forecasts, natural calamities, hygienic fish handling, and potential fishing zones in the seas.
• They also educate fishermen on hygiene, local regulations, and proper fish-handling techniques to promote safer and more efficient practices.

How extension services be improved?

• There are two main approaches to improving fisheries extension services. First, there is a need for better institutional convergence by connecting services to Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and state agricultural departments. This will result in improved coordination and reach. Second, increasing digital outreach is critical.
• Platforms such as AquaBazaar, a virtual learning tool developed by the National Fisheries Development Board, can aid in the spread of knowledge about breeding, seed production, and best practices. 
• The World Bank-supported Government of India project to create digital identities for fishers will strengthen these services by increasing capacity and raising awareness.

What are the challenges faced in strengthening fisheries extension services?

• The digital divide, especially in rural areas with limited digital literacy and infrastructure, and fragmentation—where various initiatives lack coordination—are some of the major obstacles.
• Another major issue is climate change, which requires adaptive management techniques due to unpredictable weather patterns and resource depletion.

What can be done to improve extension services?

• The government should focus on integrating fisheries extension services into existing networks such as Krishi Vigyan Kendras. 
• Expanding digital platforms such as AquaBazaar will provide greater access to information and training. 
• Fostering public-private partnerships can introduce new technologies and ideas for capacity building. 
• Developing climate resilience strategies will help fishermen adapt to environmental changes more effectively.

 Government schools can now fail Classes 5, 8 students as ''no-detention policy'' ends

• The central government has made a major change in education policy, ending the "no-detention policy" for fifth and eighth graders. This means that students in these classes who fail their year-end exams can now be held back and must repeat the grade.
• "The Union Education Ministry has taken a big decision and abolished the ''No Detention Policy''. Students who fail the annual examination in classes 5 and 8 will be failed,"
• This new rule applies to over 3,000 central government-run schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Sainik Schools, as per senior education ministry officials. The decision, announced through an official notification, reverses the 2019 amendment to the Right to Education Act.
• Under the new rule, students who fail their exams will get a second chance to pass within two months. If they don’t meet the promotion requirements after the re-examination, they will be held back in the same grade
•  While some states and union territories have yet to make a decision, others have opted to continue with the policy.
• "Since school education is a state subject, states can make their decision in this regard. Already 16 states and 2 UTs including Delhi have done away with the no-detention policy for these two classes. Haryana and Puducherry have not made any decision yet while remaining states and UTs have decided to continue with the policy," a senior official said.
• The government clarified that each state can choose its own approach to this matter.

What is the No-Detention Policy?

• Introduced under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, the policy mandated that students from Classes 1 to 8 be promoted automatically, irrespective of their academic performance, to ensure universal access to education.
• While the intention was to reduce dropout rates and stress among students, critics argued it led to a decline in learning outcomes as students lacked motivation to perform academically.

Implications of Scrapping the No-Detention Policy

• Improved Accountability
• Teachers and students are expected to take academics more seriously, knowing that promotion is no longer automatic.
• Potential Challenges
• Critics of detention policies argue they may lead to higher dropout rates, especially among marginalized communities.
• Effective remedial measures and teacher training are crucial to ensure students receive adequate support to succeed academically.
• Long-term Educational Impact
• By reintroducing evaluations and addressing learning gaps early, states like Punjab aim to improve the overall quality of education and readiness for higher studies.

What is the Panama Canal and why has Trump threatened to take it over

• Latin American leaders on Monday rallied to Panama’s defense after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reimpose U.S. control over the Panama Canal, a key global shipping route located in the Central American nation.

WHAT IS THE PANAMA CANAL?

• The Panama Canal is an 82-km (51-mile) artificial waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans through Panama, saving ships thousands of miles and weeks of travel around the stormy, icy southern tip of South America.
• The journey for ships traveling from Los Angeles to New York is close to 8,000 miles (around 22 days) shorter via the canal compared to traveling through the Strait of Magellan off Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago that embraces southern Chile and Argentina.
• The canal transports ships through the Gatun Lake, some 26 meters (85 ft) above sea level, via a series of interconnecting locks. Each ship’s transit requires some 200 million liters (53 million gallons) of fresh water.

BUILDING THE CANAL

• Spanish colonizers began studying the construction of an inter-oceanic canal cutting through the isthmus at its narrowest point, in southern Central America, as early as the 1530s. But it was not until 1878 that Colombia – which then counted Panama as a province – signed a concession with French engineers.
• The French effort was ultimately a failure, going bankrupt in 1899. Around 22,000 workers lost their lives on the project, many from disease and accidents.
• In 1903 the U.S. sought a permanent concession for a canal from Colombia, which rejected the proposal. In response, the U.S. supported Panama’s independence, which was declared on Nov. 3.
• Three days later, Panama’s ambassador to Washington signed a treaty granting the U.S. rights to build and indefinitely administer the canal. The U.S. paid Panama $10 million and later a $250,000 annuity for the rights. Many Panamanians condemned the treaty as an infringement on their newfound sovereignty.
• The U.S. construction was largely carried out by Afro-Panamanian and Caribbean workers, over 5,000 of whom died before the canal finally opened in 1914.

THE HANDOVER

• During the 20th century, U.S.-Panama tensions worsened and there were growing protests against U.S. control of the canal, notably after the Suez Canal crisis in 1956, when British and French plans to invade Egypt after it nationalized the Suez Canal were halted after U.S. pressure.
• In 1977, President Jimmy Carter signed a treaty with Panamanian military leader Omar Torrijos that granted Panama free control over the canal and guaranteed the waterway’s permanent neutrality.
• This took effect on Dec. 31, 1999. The canal has since been administered by the Panamanian government’s Panama Canal Authority, and remains a key source of income for the country.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

• Climate change has contributed to increasing droughts that have impacted water levels in the lakes feeding the canal, forcing the canal authority to limit transits as it balances Panamanians’ water needs.
• On Sunday, Trump threatened to reimpose U.S. control, citing what he said were excessive fees to use the canal and a risk of Chinese influence. A subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings has long managed two ports near canal entrances.
• “It was given to Panama and the people of Panama, but it has provisions,” Trump said of the canal.
• “If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, quickly and without question.”

PANAMA’S RESPONSE

• Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino rejected Trump’s threat. He said the canal’s tariffs were carefully and transparently evaluated, and that these maintain the canal and helped expand it in 2016, boosting traffic and global trade.
• “Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its surrounding area belongs to Panama and will continue to do so,” he said in a statement on Sunday. “Our country’s sovereignty and independence are not negotiable.”
• “The canal is not under any direct or indirect control from China, the European community, the United States, or any other power,” .

Key achievements & initiatives of Ministry of Food Processing Industries IN  2024.

• In 2024, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) achieved significant milestones, driving growth in farm incomes, job creation, and reduction of post-harvest losses.
• The ministry’s focus on improving infrastructure for preservation and processing, along with its various schemes, has been crucial to developing the food processing sector.
• Here’s a recap of the key achievements and initiatives undertaken by MoFPI during the year.

Sectoral Growth and Increased Exports

• The processed food sector saw notable growth, with the share of processed food in agri-food exports increasing to 23.4% in 2023-24, a jump from 13.7% in 2014-15.
• Additionally, the sector remains one of the largest employment generators in the organized manufacturing segment, contributing 12.41% of total employment in the sector, according to the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) report for 2022-23.
• To further support the sector, the Government of India increased the budget allocation for the ministry by 30.19%, raising it to Rs. 3,290 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25.
• This financial boost is aimed at enhancing food processing infrastructure and promoting investments across the country.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY)

• The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) continued to be a flagship scheme for the ministry, with 143 new projects approved in 2024.
• These projects have already created processing and preservation capacities of 14.41 lakh metric tons, benefiting approximately 3.53 lakh farmers and generating over 57,000 jobs.
• Since its inception, 1,646 projects have been approved under PMKSY, resulting in processing capacities of 241.94 lakh metric tons and investment commitments worth Rs. 22,778 crore.
• PMKSY has also played a significant role in reducing food wastage. Studies revealed that 70% of completed cold chain projects showed a substantial reduction in wastage, especially in fisheries and dairy products, where wastage was reduced by 70% and 85%, respectively.

Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme

• Under the PMFME scheme, introduced as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, 46,643 loans were sanctioned in 2024. Additionally, Rs. 254.87 crore was provided as seed capital to 71,714 Self-Help Group (SHG) members.
• The scheme, extended until FY 2025-26, aims to formalize and support two lakh micro food processing enterprises with a focus on “One District, One Product.”
• A total of 1,14,388 loans have been sanctioned since the launch of the scheme, and Rs. 1,032 crore has been distributed as seed capital assistance.
• The ministry also approved 76 incubation centers, with 15 already operational, to assist micro-enterprises with product development.

Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLISFPI)

• The Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industries (PLISFPI) has also shown promising results.
• A total of 171 proposals were approved in 2024, leading to an investment of Rs. 8,910 crore and creating 2.89 lakh jobs.
• The scheme supports the manufacturing of Ready-to-Eat (RTE) and Ready-to-Cook (RTC) foods, millet-based products, marine products, and mozzarella cheese, among other categories.

World Food India 2024

• The global event “World Food India 2024,” held from September 19-22 in New Delhi, showcased India’s food processing potential.
• The event attracted over 2,390 foreign delegates, 1,557 exhibitors, and 809 buyers from 108 countries.
• Key features included the display of 1,100 pickle varieties and the promotion of 550 ODOP products.
• During the event, Rs. 245 crore was sanctioned to support 70,000 SHG members, and Rs. 701 crore in subsidies was disbursed to 25,000 beneficiaries under the PMFME scheme.

Conclusion

• The Ministry of Food Processing Industries’ efforts in 2024 have resulted in significant growth in exports, employment, and investments while reducing post-harvest losses.
• These achievements have strengthened India’s position as a global leader in food processing, promoting self-reliance and creating opportunities for farmers, micro-enterprises, and industries alike.

4 Chip manufacturing units, 3 supercomputers in 2024 strengthen India’s global tech position

• The year 2024 marked significant strides for India in the technology sector with the establishment of four new semiconductor manufacturing units and the commissioning of three ‘Param Rudra’ supercomputers, among several other initiatives aimed at bolstering India’s position on the global tech stage, the government announced on Friday.
• Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) secured approval in February 2024 for setting up a semiconductor fabrication (fab) facility in partnership with Taiwan’s PSMC. The project, which involves an investment of ₹91,526 crore, will have a production capacity of 50,000 wafer starts per month (WSPM).
• In the same month, TEPL received approval for another project to establish an Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility with an investment of ₹27,120 crore. This facility will employ indigenous semiconductor packaging technologies and produce 48 million chips per day.
• CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited’s proposal to set up an OSAT facility with an investment of ₹7,584 crore was also approved in February. The project, a joint venture with Renesas Electronics America (USA) and STARS Microelectronic (Thailand), will feature technology provided by Renesas Electronics Corporation (Japan) and STARS Microelectronic. The facility will have a production capacity of 15.07 million units per day.
• In September, Kaynes Technology India Limited (KTIL) received approval to establish an OSAT facility in Sanand, Gujarat, for Wire Bond Interconnect and Substrate-Based Packages. With an investment of ₹3,307 crore, the facility is expected to produce over 6.33 million chips per day.
• On September 26, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated three ‘Param Rudra’ supercomputers to the nation via video conferencing. Developed under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), these supercomputers have been installed at key research institutions:
• Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), New Delhi (3 PetaFlops)
• Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), Pune (1 PetaFlop)
• S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata (838 TeraFlops)
• These supercomputers are expected to revolutionize research capabilities for over 10,000 researchers, including 1,700 PhD scholars from more than 200 academic institutions and R&D labs across India. They will facilitate advanced studies in physics, earth sciences, and cosmology.
• The government also highlighted nine projects approved under the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS), which are expected to generate 15,710 jobs.
• In another major achievement, 6.39 crore individuals were trained under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA), exceeding the target of 6 crore. The program aims to empower rural populations with digital literacy.
• India’s efforts to strengthen its tech infrastructure in 2024 signal a decisive step toward achieving technological self-reliance and global competitiveness.