Impact of US Remittance Tax on India: Minimal Volume Decline but Increased Costs

Overview of the New US Remittance Tax

The United States has introduced a 1% tax on specific outbound remittances as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), effective from January 1, 2026. This move has raised concerns in countries like India that are heavily reliant on remittance income from their diaspora. While the tax is not expected to significantly reduce the volume of money sent to India, it could increase the cost of these transfers.

Details and Exemptions

Initially proposed at 5%, the tax rate was lowered to 1% after bipartisan discussions. Several key exemptions soften its scope:

• The tax applies only to physical transfer methods like cash, money orders, and cashier’s checks.
• Transfers made via bank accounts or US-issued debit/credit cards are exempt.
• Transactions under $15 are not taxed.
• US citizens sending money abroad are excluded from the tax.

These provisions are expected to shield a large segment of Indian-origin senders who primarily use digital and formal banking channels.

Potential Impact on India’s Remittance Landscape

According to estimates from the Center for Global Development, India might see a decline of just under $500 million in formal remittance inflows, with only Mexico expected to experience a larger loss. Despite this, the figure is small compared to the $124.31 billion India received in remittances in FY2024-25. However, the tax highlights growing regulatory hurdles to cross-border fund flows.

In 2023-24, remittances from the US made up nearly 27.7% of India’s total inflows—about $32 billion. Even though cash-based transfers form a minor share, any disruption could affect rural households that depend on these funds.

Timing and Distribution Effects

Experts suggest that the immediate effects will be concentrated in the first three quarters of FY2025-26, as senders may expedite their transfers to avoid the tax. Nonetheless, the 1% rate is relatively modest, meaning that the long-term impact will likely manifest more in increased transaction fees rather than a drop in remittance volume.

Trends in India’s Remittance Inflows

India’s remittances have been on an upward trajectory:

• FY2024-25 net remittances: $124.31 billion (16% increase)
• Gross inflows: $132.07 billion (14% rise)
• Share from the US increased from 22.9% in 2016-17 to 27.7% in 2023-24

These inflows were crucial in FY2024-25, offsetting the entire trade deficit of $98.39 billion and leaving a $26 billion surplus, underlining their macroeconomic relevance.

Rising Costs of Sending Money

Even prior to this tax, cross-border remittances to India incurred notable transaction fees. According to World Bank data, the average cost to send $200 to India in Q4 2024 was 5.3%, below the global average of 6.6%. The new tax could elevate these costs, particularly for non-bank or multi-intermediary channels. Additional charges and delays due to correspondent banking networks remain a concern, emphasizing the need for innovation in remittance systems.

India’s Efforts to Improve Cross-Border Payment Systems

India has taken proactive steps to make international money transfers more efficient:

• UPI-PayNow Integration: Enables real-time transfers between India and Singapore.
• RBI’s Participation in Project Nexus (BIS): Aims to develop faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border payment solutions.

These initiatives are expected to cushion the impact of external policy changes and make formal remittance channels more accessible for Indians abroad.

India’s Strategic Drive to Boost Pulses Cultivation Amid Rising Imports

In light of increasing domestic demand and a sharp surge in pulse imports, the Department of Consumer Affairs—part of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution—has launched a focused initiative to promote pulses cultivation, particularly arhar (tur) and urad, during the Kharif 2025 season. This effort forms a core part of the government''s broader strategy to enhance food security and curb reliance on imports.

Key Measures and Government-Led Initiatives

1. Expansion of Pulses Cultivation Programme

• Objective: Encourage large-scale farming of arhar and urad through seed distribution campaigns.
• Execution: Handled by the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Ltd. (NCCF).
• Scale-Up: Building on a successful pilot in two Jharkhand districts, the initiative now spans 12 districts across 7 states, including:
• Jharkhand: Palamu, Latehar, Garhwa
• Uttar Pradesh: Mirzapur, Lalitpur
• Bihar: Gaya, Jehanabad
• Karnataka: Vijaypura
• North-East: Manipur and Tripura (districts unspecified)
• Selection Criteria: Focus on rainfed areas and districts containing Aspirational Blocks, as identified by NITI Aayog.

2. Financial Backing and Assured Procurement

• Budget Allocation: ₹1 crore dedicated to distributing quality seeds.
• MSP Support: The government has guaranteed 100% procurement at Minimum Support Prices if market rates drop below MSP:
• Arhar: ₹8,000/quintal
• Urad: ₹7,800/quintal

India’s Pulses Sector: Trends and Challenges

Nutritional Significance and Production Profile

• Pulses contain 20–25% protein, critical for India’s carb-heavy diet.
• India is the world’s leading pulses producer, cultivating varieties like tur, urad, moong, masur, and gram.
• Production Growth: From 163.23 lakh tonnes (2015–16) to 244.93 lakh tonnes (2023–24).
• Key Producing States: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, among others.

Trade Snapshot (in lakh tonnes):

• 2021–22: Imports – 26.99 | Exports – 3.87
• 2022–23: Imports – 24.96 | Exports – 7.62
• 2023–24: Imports jumped to 47.38 lakh tonnes (~$5 billion), while exports declined to 5.94 lakh tonnes ($686.9 million)

This doubling of imports in 2023–24 underscores growing dependency risks.

• Top Export Destinations: Bangladesh, China, UAE, USA, Sri Lanka
• Key Import Sources: Canada, Australia, Myanmar, Mozambique, Tanzania

Policy Framework Supporting Pulses Cultivation

1. PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan)

• Under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), the government procures pulses at MSP.
• Procurement ceiling of 25% removed for Tur, Masoor, and Urad during 2023–24 and 2024–25.

2. National Food Security Mission (NFSM)

• Covers 28 states and 2 union territories (J&K and Ladakh), aiming to increase foodgrain output, including pulses.

3. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)

• Implemented in Punjab, Haryana, and Western UP, this scheme promotes the shift from water-intensive rice cultivation to pulses and oilseeds.

4. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)

• A flexible scheme allowing states to design tailored interventions, including those aimed at expanding pulse production.

This coordinated effort underscores the government’s resolve to make India self-reliant in pulse production while protecting rural livelihoods and stabilizing market prices. The strategic blend of financial support, infrastructure investment, and policy backing is set to shape a more resilient pulses ecosystem in the years ahead.

India Urged to Ease Emission Norms for Small Cars in Line with Global Standards

A new study by Nomura researchers has recommended that India revise its Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms to better reflect global standards. The proposed reforms aim to introduce protection measures for small cars, which currently face disproportionately strict emissions targets despite being more fuel-efficient.

Understanding India’s CAFE Norms

What Are CAFE Norms?

Introduced by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in 2017, India’s CAFE regulations set fleet-wide average fuel efficiency targets for all passenger vehicles weighing under 3,500 kg, including those powered by petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG, electric, and hybrid systems.

Timeline:

• Phase 1: Enforced from 2017–18
• Phase 2: Rolled out in 2022–23 with stricter standards

Objectives:

• Reduce dependence on oil imports
• Lower carbon emissions and air pollution
• Encourage cleaner mobility options like EVs and hybrids

2022–23 Compliance Targets:

• Fuel consumption ≤ 4.78 litres/100 km
• CO₂ emissions ≤ 113 g/km

Disproportionate Burden on Small Cars

System Bias Against Small Vehicles

Under the current linear weight-based model, heavier vehicles are allowed to emit more CO₂. This means:

• A heavy SUV emitting 130g/km may be compliant,
• But a small car emitting 100g/km might still be non-compliant due to stricter standards for lighter vehicles.

This penalises smaller, more efficient cars while letting larger, more polluting models off the hook.

Impact on Small Car Segment

• Small cars already deliver high fuel efficiency.
• However, manufacturers are penalised for making them even lighter (to improve efficiency), as this further tightens their emission targets.
• This discourages lightweighting, a key decarbonisation strategy, and limits innovation in the affordable vehicle segment.
• Automakers like Maruti Suzuki have been advocating for a revision of these norms.

What the Study Recommends

Nomura researchers urge India to move away from a purely linear approach and adopt small car protection mechanisms, as seen in other major auto markets. These reforms could help preserve India''s affordable car segment while advancing decarbonisation goals.

Global Best Practices: Protecting Small Cars

United States

• Uses a piecewise linear model based on vehicle footprint.
• Cars below a certain size face fixed fuel economy targets, avoiding overly harsh limits for smaller vehicles.

China

• Sets a constant target for vehicles below a certain curb weight, ensuring lighter vehicles are not disproportionately penalised.

South Korea

• Applies constant emission targets for small cars under a specific weight.
• Grants manufacturers bonus credits (5–7 g/km) based on their share of small car sales.

Japan

• Employs non-linear CAFE norms that avoid punishing lightweight cars, encouraging the production of small, efficient vehicles.

European Union

• Uses an inverted slope (–0.0144) in its CAFE formula.
• Smaller cars benefit from looser targets, while larger vehicles are subjected to stricter emission controls.

Conclusion

India’s current CAFE framework may inadvertently discourage the production of fuel-efficient small cars—a vital segment for both affordability and environmental impact. By adopting a more nuanced, globally-aligned approach, India can strike a better balance between sustainability, innovation, and consumer accessibility in its automotive policy.

Delhi’s Ban on Fuel for Old Vehicles: Legal Framework, Challenges & Pollution Impact

Amid growing public criticism, the Delhi Government has clarified that old vehicles will not be impounded solely for being denied fuel. Instead, a new framework for managing End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) is in the works. The ongoing measures stem from judicial orders and directives by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), aimed at curbing Delhi’s severe air pollution problem.

Fuel Ban for Old Vehicles in Delhi

Beginning July 1, 2025, fuel stations in Delhi have stopped dispensing fuel to:

• Diesel vehicles over 10 years old
• Petrol vehicles over 15 years old

This is the first phase of a broader CAQM directive that will extend to:

• High-density NCR districts from Nov 1, 2025
• Remaining NCR areas from April 1, 2026

Tech-Based Enforcement Using ANPR Cameras

To enforce the ban, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras have been installed at:

• 498 fuel stations
• 3 Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs)

These cameras:

• Scan number plates
• Check the VAHAN database for vehicle age
• Trigger audio alerts if a vehicle is identified as an ELV
• Fuel is then denied automatically

Operational Challenges and Government Concerns

The Delhi Environment Minister has flagged serious concerns:

• "Premature and counterproductive" rollout of the fuel ban
• Technical flaws in the ANPR system:
• Camera misalignment
• Faulty sensors and audio systems
• Detection issues due to missing or unreadable High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP)
• Lack of integration with vehicle databases from nearby NCR districts

These issues have allowed banned vehicles to refuel in nearby areas, undermining the policy and causing public inconvenience.

Why the Focus on Old Vehicles?

Experts say older, pre-BS-VI vehicles contribute disproportionately to Delhi’s air pollution:

• BS-IV vehicles emit 4.5–5.5 times more PM than BS-VI models
• Transport is a major polluter:
• 28% of PM2.5
• 41% of SO₂
• 78% of NOx emissions

Legal and Regulatory Foundation

The fuel ban is supported by multiple legal mandates:

• NGT Ban (2015): Prohibits diesel vehicles >10 years and petrol vehicles >15 years in Delhi-NCR
• Supreme Court Ruling (2018): Enforced impounding of violating vehicles
• Motor Vehicles Act (1988): Registration for private vehicles valid for 15 years; renewal required afterward
• Central Motor Vehicle Rules (1999): Expired registration renders a vehicle legally unfit
• Vehicle Scrapping Guidelines (2023): Under Motor Vehicles Act and RVSF Rules
• Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025: Require scrapping within 180 days of registration expiry, effective April 1, 2025

Can This Solve Delhi’s Pollution Crisis?

While the policy is legally sound and environmentally motivated, experts caution against over-reliance on a single solution:

• The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) notes that:
• Not all old vehicles are major polluters
• Even newer vehicles can emit high levels if poorly maintained
• Age-based bans aren’t scalable across India

The Need for a Holistic Strategy

CSE and other experts recommend a multi-pronged approach, including:

• Upgrading vehicle fuel and emission standards
• Stronger enforcement of Pollution Under Control (PUC) norms
• Expanding public transportation systems to reduce vehicle dependence

Draft Model Code of Conduct for College Teachers: Overview and Implications

Context

The Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department has released a draft Model Code of Conduct for college faculty, aiming to regulate professional ethics, especially in areas such as social media engagement, political neutrality, and classroom conduct. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering ethical, inclusive, and accountable academic environments.

Understanding a Code of Conduct

A Code of Conduct is a set of actionable standards designed to regulate professional and ethical behavior within institutions. Unlike a Code of Ethics, which is rooted in moral values and philosophical ideals (e.g., virtue ethics, deontology), a Code of Conduct is more prescriptive, outlining specific behaviours and consequences for violations.

Types of Code of Conduct

1. Compliance-Based Codes
• Emphasize adherence to laws, rules, and institutional policies.
• Focus on duty-bound (deontological) ethics.
• Non-compliance leads to disciplinary action.
2. Value-Based Codes
• Grounded in organizational values like justice, integrity, and equity.
• Encourage self-regulation and ethical reflection.
• Inspired by virtue ethics, focusing on moral character development.

Key Features of the Draft Code

• Standards for Acceptable Behaviour: Clearly defines professional conduct to protect institutional integrity. Example: TANSCHE’s draft advises respectful online engagement to safeguard reputation.
• Guidance on Teacher-Student Relations: Promotes fairness, respect, inclusivity, and student privacy. Example: Delhi University guidelines stress professional boundaries.
• Responsible Social Media Use: Prohibits posting content that may harm public sentiment or the institution’s image. Example: Teachers advised against making reels promoting personal or offensive content.
• Political Neutrality: Encourages academic impartiality by discouraging participation in political movements. Example: Tamil Nadu teachers cautioned against affiliating with disruptive political groups.
• Promotion of Inclusivity: Bans discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender.
  Example: NEP 2020 underscores inclusive, bias-free campuses.
• Research Ethics and Integrity: Emphasizes academic honesty, prohibiting plagiarism and falsification of data. Example: UGC mandates anti-plagiarism software for thesis checks.

Implementation Strategies

• Institutional Customization: Universities can adapt the model code to fit their local and institutional contexts.
• Training and Awareness: Regular ethics workshops and orientations can instill ethical literacy.
• Role-Modelling by Leadership: Senior faculty and administrators must lead by example to establish ethical norms.
• Feedback and Review: Stakeholder engagement ensures the code remains responsive and relevant.
• Ethics Committees: Dedicated bodies can oversee, investigate, and advise on ethical breaches.

Challenges and Limitations

• Weak Enforcement: Without proper monitoring, the code risks becoming symbolic rather than effective.
• Over-Standardization: A rigid one-size-fits-all approach may overlook cultural or contextual variations.
• Academic Freedom Risks: Poorly defined rules may unintentionally suppress free expression or critical discourse.
• Ambiguity in Language: Vague provisions may lead to inconsistent or arbitrary enforcement.
• Resistance to Change: Senior faculty may view reforms as intrusive or unnecessary.

Conclusion

A thoughtfully constructed Code of Conduct is essential for cultivating ethical, inclusive, and professionally accountable academic spaces. However, its success relies on clarity, stakeholder participation, institutional backing, and respect for academic freedom. When implemented effectively, it not only protects institutional values but also strengthens the integrity of the higher education system.

PM-POSHAN Scheme

Context

Over a century after the first school meal initiative in the Madras Presidency, the PM-POSHAN scheme continues to address child hunger and promote education in India. However, despite its longstanding importance, a new report points to ongoing ground-level issues such as delays in fund disbursal, caste-based discrimination, and rising implementation costs.

About the Scheme

• Full Name: Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojana
• Launch Year: 2021–22 (replacing the former Midday Meal Scheme that started in 1995)
• Nature of Scheme: Centrally Sponsored; follows a 60:40 cost-sharing model between the Centre and States
• Core Aim: To offer one freshly cooked meal daily to students in Classes 1 to 8 enrolled in government and government-aided schools

Key Features

1. Nutritional Content: Meals typically include grains (rice or wheat), pulses, vegetables, and eggs or bananas where permitted by local guidelines.
2. Beneficiary Coverage: As of 2023–24, the scheme benefits 11.80 crore children across 11.20 lakh schools nationwide.
3. Funding Outlay: The financial allocation until 2025–26 stands at ₹54,061 crore from the Centre and ₹31,733 crore from States and UTs.
4. Innovative Additions:
• Promotion of school-level nutrition gardens
• Implementation of digital monitoring tools
• Incorporation of social audit mechanisms for increased transparency
5. Integrated Implementation: The scheme operates in coordination with initiatives such as Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and Poshan Abhiyan to ensure comprehensive child development.

Successes of PM-POSHAN in India

• Improved School Participation: According to a 2024 review (Jean Drèze), the scheme has had a measurable impact on student enrolment, attendance, and retention, particularly among marginalised communities.
• Promoting Gender Equality: Data from Tamil Nadu shows a significant decline in dropout rates among girls, attributed to nutritional support and the inclusion of breakfast meals.
• Addressing Classroom Hunger: For many economically disadvantaged children, the midday meal serves as their primary or only meal, helping them focus better in school, as highlighted by UNICEF.
• State-Level Innovations:
• Tamil Nadu has introduced a Breakfast Scheme as a complementary initiative.
• Kerala has diversified its meals by adding dishes such as egg-fried rice.
• Community Involvement: Kerala’s model involves local cooks and community stakeholders, strengthening both nutritional delivery and hygiene standards.

Key Challenges in Implementation

• Delays in Fund Release: Teachers from Kerala and Uttar Pradesh report having to use personal resources or loans to manage meal expenses due to fund transfer delays lasting up to 3–6 months.
• Insufficient Per-Child Budget: With allocations ranging from ₹6 to ₹10 per child per day, states like UP and Kerala find it challenging to meet actual meal costs, which are estimated at ₹30 to ₹40 per child per day.
• Uniform Guidelines Ignoring Local Needs: The scheme’s standardised national framework overlooks local dietary customs, especially in tribal and rural areas where food preferences vary.
• Caste Discrimination in Meal Access: Instances from Delhi NCR, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar reveal that Dalit children are sometimes segregated during mealtimes or even denied food, undermining the scheme’s inclusivity goals.
• Increased Administrative Burden on Teachers: Teachers like Vasudha from Kerala have raised concerns that responsibilities related to cooking and administration are cutting into their teaching hours, impacting instructional quality.
• Infrastructure Shortcomings: Many schools lack adequate cooking facilities, storage space, or enough staff, despite having to prepare meals for hundreds of students daily.

Way Forward

• Updating Cost Norms: Adjust the per-child expenditure to reflect regional food prices and inflation to ensure meals are nutritious and adequate.
• Timely Fund Disbursement: Introduce direct transfer systems to schools with fixed timelines to improve fund flow efficiency and transparency.
• Flexible Menu Design: Allow states and districts to tailor meal menus to suit local dietary habits. Example: Odisha’s incorporation of millets into the menu.
• Stronger Monitoring Mechanisms: Expand the use of real-time dashboards, tech platforms, and community-led audits to enhance oversight and accountability.
• Promote Equality and Respect: Conduct regular sensitisation programs in schools to combat caste-based discrimination and promote a culture of dignity.
• Collaborate with Civil Society: Engage NGOs and community organisations to help address nutritional gaps, gender disparities, and mental health needs among students.

Conclusion

The PM-POSHAN scheme remains an integral part of India’s strategy to tackle childhood hunger, improve educational participation, and ensure nutritional equity. While its goals and design are commendable, its full impact can only be realised through timely funding, local customisation, robust monitoring, and social inclusion measures.

Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems Report – FAO

Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has released the “Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems” report, emphasizing that empowering youth in agriculture can significantly contribute to economic growth, address youth unemployment, and enhance global food security. The report estimates that improved youth engagement could add up to 1.4% to global GDP, equivalent to approximately $1.5 trillion, nearly half of which would stem from the agrifood sector.

Key Findings

1. Declining Youth Employment in Agrifood Systems

• The proportion of working youth (aged 15–24) engaged in agrifood systems has decreased from 54% in 2005 to 44%, despite agriculture being a primary livelihood in low-income economies.
• This decline reflects both rural-to-urban migration and the increasing shift of young people away from farming due to a lack of opportunities.

2. Sharp Rise in NEET Youth

• Over 20% of global youth are currently Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET).
• Young women are disproportionately affected, being twice as likely to be NEET compared to men, underlining a severe gender disparity.

3. Significant Economic Potential

• Addressing youth NEET status, particularly in the 20–24 age group, could increase global GDP by 1.4%.
• Of this projected gain, about 45% could be achieved by strengthening youth participation in agrifood systems, showing the sector’s latent economic capacity.

4. Rural-Urban Divide Widening

• Currently, 54% of global youth live in urban areas, leaving rural youth underrepresented.
• Only 5% of the workforce in modern, industrial agrifood systems consists of rural youth, raising concerns about future labour shortages in agriculture and food processing.

5. Climate Vulnerability

• Approximately 395 million rural youth reside in areas highly vulnerable to climate change, facing risks from declining agricultural productivity, water stress, and extreme weather events.
• Their limited adaptive capacity makes them especially susceptible to livelihood loss and forced migration.

6. Growing Food Insecurity

• Global food insecurity among youth has risen from 16.7% in 2014 to 24.4% by 2023.
• The increase is more acute in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and conflict-affected regions, underscoring the need for urgent food and income support.

FAO’s Key Recommendations

1. Inquire More

• Close Data Gaps: Improve data collection and analysis on youth participation in agrifood systems across regions and age groups.
• Evidence-Based Policies: Use accurate and disaggregated data to develop targeted, youth-inclusive policies and programs.

2. Include More

• Youth Representation: Promote youth inclusion in decision-making bodies and policy forums at local, national, and global levels.
• Urban and Rural Youth Voice: Ensure both urban and rural youth have equal say in shaping agrifood system reforms.

3. Invest More

• Decent Job Creation: Develop opportunities for on-farm and off-farm employment, especially in value-added agrifood chains.
• Modernize Agrifood Systems: Channel investments into infrastructure, technology, value chain development, and sustainable practices.
• Resource Accessibility: Improve youth access to:
• Land ownership and leasing
• Affordable credit
• Training and capacity building
• Market access
• Digital platforms and tools
• Enable Orderly Migration: Develop legal and safe migration pathways linked to agricultural jobs to reduce irregular migration and protect migrant youth workers.

Alaknanda River

Current Context

Due to intense rainfall in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, the Alaknanda River’s water level has surged, leading to flood-like conditions in the region.

Geographical Profile

• Location: Situated in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, India.
• Role: One of the two principal headstreams of the Ganges River (the other being Bhagirathi).

Origin and Course

• Source: Emerges from the glacial meltwaters of the Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers in the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Length: Travels approximately 190 km before merging with the Bhagirathi at Devprayag.
• Confluence with Bhagirathi: Marks the point where the river is officially known as the Ganga.
• Hydrological Note: At this junction, the Alaknanda contributes a larger volume to the Ganga compared to Bhagirathi.

Major Tributaries and Panch Prayag

The Alaknanda is joined by several tributaries, five of which are considered sacred. These five confluences (Panch Prayag) are revered and serve as key pilgrimage sites:

1. Vishnuprayag – Confluence with Dhauliganga River
2. Nandprayag – Confluence with Nandakini River
3. Karnaprayag – Confluence with Pindar River
4. Rudraprayag – Confluence with Mandakini River
5. Devprayag – Confluence with Bhagirathi River

Religious and Cultural Significance

• The Alaknanda Valley plays a crucial role in the Char Dham Yatra, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage route that includes:
• Badrinath
• Kedarnath
• Gangotri
• Yamunotri
• Notable pilgrimage destinations along its banks include:
• Badrinath
• Hemkund Sahib
• Joshimath

Hydropower Projects in the Basin

The river basin supports several hydroelectric power projects, including:

• Alaknanda Hydel Project (Badrinath)
• Lata Tapovan
• Devsari Dam
• Nandprayag Langasu
• Vishnugad Pipalkoti

Bukkapatna Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary

Recent Development

• 300 acres of encroached forest land were recently cleared, marking a significant step in restoring the sanctuary’s ecological integrity.

Location

• Located in the Tumakuru district of Karnataka.
• Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2019, primarily for the conservation of the Indian Gazelle (Chinkara).

Conservation Focus

• Dedicated to the protection of the Chinkara (Gazella bennetti), also known as the Indian Gazelle.
• This is Karnataka’s second Chinkara sanctuary, after the Yadahalli Wildlife Sanctuary in Bagalkot district, which was notified in 2016.

Habitat and Vegetation

• Represents a wooded savannah ecosystem.
• Dominated by grasses and sparsely populated with native tree species, offering an ideal habitat for herbivores and other wildlife.

Fauna

• In addition to Chinkaras, the sanctuary hosts:
• Four-horned antelopes
• Blackbucks
• Sloth bears
• Leopards
• Other regional wildlife species

Flora

Prominent tree species in the sanctuary include:

• Hardwickia binata (Anjan)
• Phyllanthus emblica (Amla, from the Phyllanthaceae family)
• Boswellia serrata (Shallaki)
• Tamarindus indica (Imli)
• Pterocarpus marsupium (Bijaka)
• Anogeissus latifolia (Dhaura)
• Shorea talura
• Terminalia tomentosa

Mount Shinmoedake

Recent Event

• Mount Shinmoedake, a volcano in Japan''s Kyushu Island, recently erupted, sending a large plume of ash into the atmosphere.

Location & Background

• It is part of the Kirishima mountain range in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
• Elevation: 1420.8 meters above sea level
• The volcano is known for frequent eruptions, with records dating back to 1716.
• It gained fame internationally as a filming location for the 1967 James Bond movie "You Only Live Twice."

What is a Stratovolcano?

• Stratovolcanoes (also called composite volcanoes) are:
• Steep, cone-shaped volcanoes
• Made up of alternating layers of lava and pyroclastic material
• Typically located above subduction zones
• Found in volcanically active regions like the Ring of Fire

Characteristics

• Usually capped with a small crater, which might contain:
• Water, ice, or a volcanic dome
• They account for about 60% of Earth’s volcanoes
• Eruptions are often explosive, as they emit cooler, thicker lava (like andesite or dacite) which traps gas pressure

Chenab River and Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project (HEP)

The Forest Advisory Committee has granted ‘in-principle’ approval for the diversion of forest land required for the construction of the Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River. This project is one among six strategic hydropower developments planned to maximize India’s utilization of Indus water resources.

About Chenab River:
The Chenab River originates from Bara Lacha Pass, where two streams—Chandra and Bhaga—emerge from opposite sides of the pass and converge to form the river. The Chenab Valley is a structural trough situated between the Great Himalayan and Pir Panjal mountain ranges. Its tributaries include Miyar Nalla, Sohal, Thirot, Bhut Nalla, Marusudar, and Lidrari. In ancient times, the river was known by names such as Chandrabhaga, Ashkini, or Iskmati in Vedic texts.

Girmitiyas

Recent Context

• The Prime Minister of India recently acknowledged the transformation of Girmitiya descendants, stating they are no longer seen through the lens of hardship, but rather recognized for their success, service, and strong values.

Who Were the Girmitiyas?

• The term ‘Girmitiyas’ refers to Indian indentured labourers who were sent abroad under contractual agreements during the mid to late 19th century.
• These individuals were transported primarily to work in British colonial plantations, and many later settled permanently in those foreign lands.

Etymology

• The word ‘Girmitiya’ originates from the Indianized pronunciation of ‘agreement’, rendered as ‘girmit’.
• Labourers who signed indenture contracts—agreements with colonial authorities—were referred to as Girmitiyas.

Conditions of Indentureship

• Although these agreements promised better wages and employment opportunities, the reality was often harsh and exploitative.
• Labourers:
• Traveled long distances in overcrowded and unsafe ships, many of which had previously transported enslaved people.
• Lived in barrack-like housing under poor working conditions.
• Were paid meagre wages and had limited legal protection or mechanisms for grievance redressal.

Blackbirding Practices

• While indentured labour was not legally classified as slavery, it bore many similarities to it.
• Many Girmitiyas were victims of “blackbirding”—a coercive or deceptive system of recruiting people for forced labour, often involving fraudulent promises or misinformation.

Legacy and Impact

• Despite enduring exploitative circumstances, the descendants of Girmitiyas have significantly contributed to the societies in which they settled.
• Many have risen to prominent positions in government, excelled in business, and made impactful contributions to the arts and culture of their respective countries.
• Countries with substantial Girmitiya-descendant populations include Fiji, Mauritius, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and South Africa.

Sarcoma

Overview

• Sarcoma refers to a group of rare cancers that develop in connective tissues, including bones and soft tissues (fat, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, deep skin tissues).
• It often begins as a painless lump or swelling, which may grow gradually. These symptoms are easily mistaken for benign conditions like cysts or injuries, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Prevalence

• Although sarcomas make up only about 1% of adult cancers and 15% of childhood cancers, their impact is significant due to low awareness and late detection.

Types of Sarcoma

Sarcomas are broadly classified into:

1. Soft Tissue Sarcomas
• Liposarcoma – arises from fat tissue
• Leiomyosarcoma – originates in smooth muscle
• Angiosarcoma – develops from blood vessels
2. Bone Sarcomas
• Osteosarcoma – common in children and young adults
• Ewing Sarcoma
• Chondrosarcoma

There are over 70 known subtypes, making diagnosis and treatment complex.

Risk Factors

• Genetic disorders: e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis
• Previous radiation therapy, especially near sarcoma-affected areas
• Chemical exposure: e.g., vinyl chloride, dioxins
• Chronic swelling (lymphedema)
• Age:
• Bone sarcomas occur more in children and young adults
• Soft tissue sarcomas are more common in older adults

Awareness

• July is observed as Sarcoma Awareness Month, aiming to improve public understanding and early detection.

Ham Radio

Overview

• Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a licensed form of wireless communication that uses radio frequencies to enable two-way communication.
• It is primarily used for:
• Educational purposes
• Technical experimentation
• Emergency communications during natural or man-made disasters

Technology & Operation

• Communication through ham radio requires:
• A dedicated frequency band
• A transceiver (to transmit and receive signals)
• An antenna
• Conversations can range from local to global, and even include space-based communications, such as with the International Space Station (ISS).

Licensing in India

• Any Indian citizen above 12 years of age is eligible to apply for a ham radio licence.
• The licence is issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
• Operators are trained and tested before receiving certification.

Why Ham Radio Matters

• Despite modern digital communication systems, ham radio remains highly dependable, particularly when regular infrastructure fails.
• It serves as an alternative communication network in emergencies.

Notable Emergency Uses in India

• Bhuj earthquake (2001)
• Indian Ocean tsunami (2004)
• Uttarakhand floods (2013)
• In all these events, ham radio played a critical role in relaying emergency messages when conventional channels were disrupted.

Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS)

Recent Update

• A comet from beyond our solar system, designated 3I/ATLAS, was recently detected by the ATLAS telescope system in Chile.

About ATLAS

• Full Name: Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System
• Developed by the University of Hawaii and funded by NASA
• Purpose: To serve as an early warning system for potentially hazardous asteroids.

System Configuration

• Comprises four telescopes strategically placed:
• Two in Hawaii
• One in Chile
• One in South Africa
• These telescopes automatically scan the sky several times each night to detect fast-moving celestial objects.

Primary Objectives

• Detect near-Earth asteroids, especially those large enough to cause significant damage
• Provide warning times based on asteroid size:
• ~20 meters in diameter: detected a few days before impact
• ~100 meters in diameter: detected weeks in advance

Other Applications

While asteroid detection is its core mission, ATLAS also contributes to:

• Discoveries of dwarf planets
• Observation of supernovae
• Tracking cosmic events like stellar material being consumed by black holes

Design Focus

• ATLAS is optimized to detect objects closer than the Moon''s distance (~384,000 km), making it ideal for identifying imminent impact threats.

Supernova

Scientists have recently obtained photographic proof of a rare supernova event involving a unique type of star called a white dwarf, featuring a phenomenon known as double detonation. This observation was made using the Very Large Telescope, located at the European Southern Observatory in Chile.

About Supernova:
A supernova is a tremendously powerful explosion marking the end of a star’s life cycle. Usually, this event occurs when a star, more than eight times the mass of the sun, runs out of nuclear fuel and undergoes core collapse.

BHARAT Initiative

Overview

• The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru has launched a significant research project named BHARAT, which stands for Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions.
• The initiative is part of the broader Longevity India Program, which focuses on understanding aging in the Indian context.

Objectives

• To identify physiological, molecular, lifestyle, and environmental factors that influence aging.
• To develop a comprehensive database on aging in the Indian population, capturing a wide range of indicators.

Key Components

• Multiparametric Analysis: Examines several biological and lifestyle parameters.
• Advanced Clinical Assessments: Includes medical and physiological evaluations.
• Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Considers dietary habits, pollution exposure, and socio-cultural conditions.
• Comprehensive Biomarker Discovery: Involves identifying molecular signatures associated with aging.

Bharat Baseline

• A critical outcome of the initiative is to establish a "Bharat Baseline"—a scientific reference point for what constitutes "normal" in Indian health profiles.
• This will help challenge Western-centric medical standards, which often misclassify Indian populations (e.g., vitamin D or B12 levels).

Types of Biomarkers Involved

• Genomic markers: DNA mutations and gene variations linked to disease risks.
• Proteomic and Metabolic indicators: Reveal underlying biochemical pathways.
• Lifestyle and Environmental markers: Track aging patterns across urban and rural populations.

What Are Biomarkers?

• Definition: Biomarkers (short for biological markers) are measurable indicators of a biological process, condition, or disease.
• According to WHO, a biomarker is “any measurement reflecting interaction between a biological system and a potential hazard, which may be chemical, physical, or biological.”
• Uses:
• Disease diagnosis
• Monitoring drug response
• Personalised medicine
• Drug development
• Examples: Enzymes, hormones, genes (DNA/RNA), proteins, lipids, platelets, etc.

India’s First Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC)

Context

• India’s first EDFC has been officially recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
• It is located at the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre & College, Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh.

Purpose

• To maintain a scientifically managed, biosecure zone free from key equine diseases, enabling Indian horses to participate in international trade and competitions.

Established Under

• Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying

Key Features

1. Disease-Free Status
• Certified free from:
• Equine Influenza
• Glanders
• Surra
• Equine Piroplasmosis
• Equine Infectious Anemia
• India has also remained free of African Horse Sickness since 2014.
2. Biosecurity Measures
• Implements strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for:
• Hygiene and sanitation
• Pest and disease control
• Health surveillance and waste management
3. Compartmentalisation Standards
• Adheres to WOAH’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code.
• Maintains a defined sub-population of healthy animals isolated from disease exposure.
4. 24/7 Monitoring
• Continuous veterinary screening and health surveillance for early disease detection.

Functions and Significance

• Facilitates International Trade
• Enables the export of Indian sport horses under internationally accepted protocols.
• Supports Equestrian Sports
• Allows Indian equestrian athletes and horses to compete globally.
• Strengthens Animal Health Systems
• Enhances India’s reputation in biosecurity and science-based livestock management.
• Model for Expansion
• India is now adopting this approach for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)-Free Compartments, to promote safe poultry exports.

Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR)

Context

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently conducted a ₹1 lakh crore 7-day VRRR auction to manage the surplus liquidity in the banking system, which had reached approximately ₹3.75 lakh crore.

What is VRRR?

• The Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) is a monetary policy instrument used by the RBI to absorb excess liquidity from the financial system.
• Unlike the fixed reverse repo rate, the interest rate under VRRR is market-determined through a competitive auction.
• It allows banks to park their surplus funds with the RBI for durations longer than one day (usually 7, 14, or 28 days) in return for interest.

Announced By

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as part of its liquidity management framework under the monetary policy operations.

Objectives

• To absorb surplus liquidity from the banking system.
• To influence short-term interest rates and improve monetary policy transmission.
• To enable a market-based mechanism for short-term liquidity adjustment between commercial banks and the central bank.

How VRRR Works

1. Auction Announcement: RBI specifies the total amount and duration of the VRRR (e.g., ₹1 lakh crore for 7 days).
2. Bank Participation: Banks submit competitive bids stating the amount and interest rate at which they wish to lend to the RBI.
3. Rate Discovery: RBI determines a cut-off rate based on the bids and accepts bids at or above this rate.
4. Interest Earnings: Participating banks earn interest at the auction-determined rate during the VRRR tenor.

Key Features

• Market-Linked Rates: Unlike fixed-rate reverse repos, interest rates in VRRR are discovered via auction.
• Term Operations: Operates for multiple days (7, 14, 28 days), unlike overnight fixed reverse repo.
• Liquidity Tool: Designed specifically to absorb excess liquidity from the system.
• Rate Ceiling: The auction rate cannot exceed the current repo rate.
• Operational Flexibility: RBI can conduct VRRRs of varying sizes and durations based on the prevailing liquidity situation.

Implications of VRRR

1. Money Market

• Tightens liquidity, pushing short-term interest rates like call money rate and TREPS (Tri-party Repo) upward.

2. Bond Market

• May raise short-term bond yields, increasing borrowing costs for corporates and the government.

3. Banking Sector

• Pros:
• Banks earn higher returns on idle funds compared to overnight reverse repo.
• Cons:
• Funds are temporarily locked, possibly limiting availability for loans or investments during the VRRR period.

PNGRB Approves Second Amendment to Natural Gas Pipeline Tariff Regulations, 2025

Objective:

• To create a more transparent, consumer-oriented, and investment-friendly natural gas infrastructure in India.
• Aligned with the vision of "One Nation, One Grid, One Tariff."

Key Reforms:

• Streamlined Tariff Zones:
  Reduction in Unified Tariff Zones from three to two, simplifying the transportation system.
• Support for CNG & PNG (Domestic):
  Unified Zonal Tariff of Zone 1 extended nationwide to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG) domestic segments.
• Efficient Fuel Procurement Mandate:
  Pipeline operators must procure at least 75% of annual system-use gas through long-term contracts (minimum of 3 years) to reduce procurement risks and transaction costs.
• Pipeline Development Reserve – A Sustainable Infra Model:
  Reserve created from the net-of-tax earnings of pipeline entities exceeding 75% utilization.
• 50% reinvested into infrastructure development
• 50% passed to consumers via tariff adjustments
• Creates a self-sustaining, performance-linked development model

Role of PNGRB (Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board)

Formation:

• Statutory body under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006

Key Functions:

• Regulate refining, transportation, storage, distribution, marketing, supply, and sale of petroleum products and natural gas (excluding production)
• Register entities for marketing notified petroleum and petroleum products
• Protect consumer interests and promote fair trade and competition
• Maintain a data bank of industry-related activities

Appeals:

• Appeals against PNGRB decisions are addressed by the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity under the Electricity Act, 2003

Alluri Sitarama Raju

Context

• On the 128th birth anniversary of Alluri Sitarama Raju, the Union Defence Minister paid tribute to his role in India’s freedom struggle and reaffirmed the government''s commitment to eliminate Maoist insurgency by August 2026.

Who Was He?

• Alluri Sitarama Raju was a freedom fighter and revolutionary who led a tribal uprising against British colonial rule in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.
• Though not a tribal himself, he is venerated by tribal communities for defending their rights and way of life.

Early Life and Influences

• Born: 4 July 1897 in Mogallu village, near Bhimavaram, present-day Andhra Pradesh.
• Education: Received schooling locally and later in Visakhapatnam.
• At age 18, renounced worldly life to become a sanyasi, travelling extensively through forests and hills, forging strong ties with tribal groups.
• Initially inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement, he advocated nonviolent resistance and urged tribals to boycott British institutions. When this failed, he turned to armed struggle.

Major Contribution: The Rampa Rebellion (1922–1924)

• Cause: The Madras Forest Act, 1882 severely restricted tribal agricultural practices such as Podu cultivation, displacing thousands from their ancestral lands.
• Tribals were subjected to forced, unpaid labour (begar) for British infrastructure projects.
• Leadership: Raju mobilized tribal youth and led guerrilla attacks on British police stations, seizing arms and resisting colonial authority.
• His efforts made him a formidable figure, prompting the British to place a ₹10,000 bounty on his head.

Martyrdom

• In May 1924, he was captured through deceit, tied to a tree, and executed by the British on 7 May 1924.

Legacy

• Revered as “Manyam Veerudu” (Hero of the Forest).
• The Government of Andhra Pradesh commemorates 4 July each year as a state festival in his honour.
• Symbol of tribal resistance, justice, and sacrifice during the independence movement.

Chautal

Context

• During his visit to Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, the Prime Minister of India shared a video of a Bhojpuri Chautal performance, underscoring the cultural connection between India and the global Indian diaspora.

What is Chautal?

• Chautal (also spelled Chowtal or Chartal) is a traditional 12-beat rhythmic cycle (tāl) in Indian classical music.
• It is primarily used in the dhrupad tradition, the oldest surviving form of classical music in India.
• The name ‘Chautal’ refers to “four claps,” describing its vibhag (section) structure.

Key Characteristics

• Comprises 12 matras (beats) in total.
• Has two interpretative structures:
1. Four vibhags: 4 + 4 + 2 + 2 beats (all marked by claps).
2. Six vibhags: 2 beats each, like Ektal, often with clap-wave alternation.
• Typically played at medium tempo; not used in very slow or fast compositions.
• Emphasizes a powerful and resonant rhythmic style, particularly when played on the pakhawaj.
• Does not always follow a fixed theka; instead, it may follow a more flexible pattern known as “thapi.”

Instruments

• Pakhawaj is the principal percussion instrument for Chautal performances.
• Unlike tabla, the pakhawaj allows greater freedom and improvisation, adding depth and intensity to the rhythm.

Cultural and Musical Significance

• Deeply embedded in the dhrupad tradition, Chautal reflects the spirituality, strength, and discipline of Indian classical rhythm.
• Its continued use in diaspora performances (e.g., in the Caribbean) showcases the resilience of Indian cultural traditions abroad.

Argentina

Context

The Prime Minister of India is on an official visit to Buenos Aires, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence, energy, agriculture, and trade.

Geographical Overview

• Location: Situated in the southern part of South America.
• Capital: Buenos Aires
• Bordering Countries:
• West: Chile
• North: Bolivia and Paraguay
• Northeast: Brazil and Uruguay
• East: Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean

Physical Geography

• Andes Mountains: Stretch along Argentina’s western frontier; includes Mount Aconcagua (6,959 m) — the highest peak in South America.
• Major Rivers:
• Paraná
• Uruguay
• Pilcomayo
• Bermejo
• Santa Cruz

Key Landforms:

• Pampas: Vast fertile plains ideal for agriculture and cattle ranching.
• Patagonia: Located in the south; characterized by cold, dry winds, glaciers, and steppe landscapes.
• Gran Chaco & Mesopotamia: Subtropical lowlands with seasonal wetlands and rivers.
• Coastline: Stretches approximately 2,900 miles (4,700 km) along the Atlantic Ocean.

India–Argentina Relations

Diplomatic Relations

• Established in 1949
• The two countries share deepening ties in political, economic, and scientific collaboration.

Trade & Economic Cooperation

• Trade sectors include:
• Agricultural commodities
• Pharmaceuticals
• Industrial machinery
• The trade volume has seen steady growth over the years.

Strategic Sectors

• Energy & Mining:
• India is actively investing in Argentina’s lithium reserves, which are vital for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and clean energy solutions.

India–Africa Relations: A Strategic Partnership

Recent Development:

• During a state visit to Ghana, the Indian Prime Minister reaffirmed India''s support for Africa’s development as equal partners.

Key Dimensions of India-Africa Engagement:

• Global South Voice Amplification:
  African Union included as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s 2023 presidency
• Joint Partnerships:
  Example: India-Japan Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) for sustainable development
• Developmental Framework:
• India supports Africa''s Agenda 2063
• India is Africa’s 4th largest trading partner with bilateral trade of US$100 billion and investments of over US$75 billion (June 2024)
• Reformed Multilateralism:
• Advocates for greater African representation in global institutions such as the UN Security Council
• Supports the Ezulwini Consensus
• Renewable Energy & Climate Change Cooperation:
• African nations participating in the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Global Biofuel Alliance, and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
• Capacity Building:
• Supports the AU’s goal of “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century” through training and skill development initiatives
• Cultural and People-to-People Ties:
• e-Visa facilities extended to 33 African countries

Challenges in India-Africa Relations

• China’s Dominance:
  Through aggressive financing, infrastructure diplomacy, and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects
• Project Implementation Delays:
  Issues with completion timelines undermine India’s credibility
• Nuclear Policy Disagreements:
  For example, South Africa supports global non-proliferation treaties, while India resists joining under current discriminatory terms

Conclusion

• India’s Africa engagement is guided by Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), now expanded to Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement of Security and Growth Across Regions)
• These efforts reflect India’s sustained commitment to the Global South and Africa’s development journey

Special Intensive Revision (SIR)

The Election Commission of India is set to begin a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Bihar. This process is backed by Article 324 of the Indian Constitution and Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.

About SIR:
SIR involves a thorough house-to-house verification aimed at ensuring that all eligible citizens are correctly enrolled in the electoral rolls. This task is carried out by Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The main objective is to include every qualified voter to maintain the completeness and accuracy of the electoral rolls. The integrity of electoral rolls is critical to conducting free and fair elections.

UMEED Portal

The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has launched the UMEED Central Portal as part of the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Rules, 2025.

Purpose of UMEED Portal:
This portal acts as a centralized digital platform for the real-time uploading, verification, and monitoring of Waqf properties across India.

Key Features:

• Creation of a comprehensive digital inventory with geo-tagging of all Waqf properties.
• An online grievance redressal mechanism to improve responsiveness.
• Transparent processes for leasing and usage tracking of Waqf assets.
• Integration with GIS mapping and other e-Governance tools.
• Public access to authenticated records and reports, enhancing transparency.

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

The Finance Ministry has announced that all tax benefits available under the National Pension System (NPS) will be extended to the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

About UPS:
UPS is introduced as an option under the NPS framework and is a fund-based payout system. It relies on the consistent and timely accumulation and investment of contributions made by both the employee and the employer (Central Government).

Important Features:

• The pension amount will be based on 50% of the average basic pay drawn during the last 12 months before superannuation, given a minimum qualifying service of 25 years.
• The scheme guarantees a minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month after at least 10 years of service.