India Restricts Jute Imports from Bangladesh Over Trade and Strategic Issues

Overview
In June 2025, India implemented strict limitations on the import of jute goods from Bangladesh, allowing entry only through the Nhava Sheva port in Maharashtra and closing all land-based routes. This change, announced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), exempts Bangladeshi shipments headed to Nepal and Bhutan.

The decision reflects mounting concerns over Bangladesh’s closer strategic ties with China and ongoing trade irregularities, including efforts to bypass anti-dumping duties (ADD). These issues have significantly impacted India’s domestic jute industry, particularly in states such as West Bengal and Bihar.

Products Affected by the New Restrictions
The import curbs target a broad array of jute-related products, including:

• Jute goods
• Flax tow and waste
• Jute and other bast fibres
• Single and multiple yarns of jute or flax
• Woven and unbleached jute fabrics

These products had previously been exempt from tariffs under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) Agreement.

Effect of Subsidised Bangladeshi Imports
India’s jute sector has long been strained by the inflow of subsidised and dumped jute products from Bangladesh. Despite the imposition of ADD by the Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD), loopholes allowed continued entry through:

• Misuse of technical exemptions
• Exports from firms surpassing legal capacity
• Misreporting and under-invoicing

As a result, Bangladeshi jute imports surged from USD 117 million in 2021–22 to USD 144 million in 2023–24.

Impact on Indian Farmers and Mills
This rise in low-cost imports has disrupted the Indian market. In 2024–25, domestic jute prices dropped below Rs. 5,000 per quintal—beneath the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs. 5,335. This price decline triggered liquidity shortages and led to the closure of six mills, leaving Rs. 1,400 crore in dues, including Rs. 400 crore in legacy debt.

India’s jute sector supports over 400,000 workers, with rural livelihoods in states like West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, and Odisha heavily reliant on the crop. Cheap imports have led to under-utilised mill capacity and weakened local procurement.

Strategic and Regulatory Objectives
By restricting imports to a single seaport, the Indian government aims to:

• Enhance quality inspections (e.g., checking for hydrocarbon oil contamination)
• Curb mislabeling and false declarations
• Close routing loopholes through third countries

Beyond trade, the move serves as a strategic message to Bangladesh, signalling disapproval of Dhaka’s warming relations with Beijing and its inaction on ongoing trade violations. Although some diplomatic efforts by Bangladesh have led to marginal policy tweaks, its continued support for value-added jute exports has worsened trade asymmetries.

Looking Ahead: Reviving India''s Jute Industry
India plans to strengthen the jute sector through tighter monitoring, potential policy reforms, and increased trade oversight. Authorities are also considering bringing raw jute under the ADD framework to safeguard farmer incomes and ensure industry sustainability.

Revised Biomass Programme Guidelines: Streamlining Clean Energy and Empowering MSMEs

Context

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued revised guidelines under the Biomass Programme (Phase-I, 2021–26) to improve adoption of clean energy, particularly among MSMEs, while addressing issues like stubble burning and regulatory bottlenecks.

Overview of the Biomass Programme (Phase-I)

• Launched by: MNRE under the National Bioenergy Programme
• Duration: 2021–22 to 2025–26
• Objective:
• Promote biomass briquette/pellet manufacturing
• Support non-bagasse biomass-based cogeneration in industries
• Target Units:
• Briquette/Pellet plants
• Industrial biomass cogeneration setups

Central Financial Assistance (CFA) Provisions

• ₹9 lakh per MTPH for pellet/briquette plants (maximum ₹45 lakh per plant)
• ₹40 lakh per MW for cogeneration (maximum ₹5 crore per project)
• Example: A 2 MTPH pellet plant qualifies for ₹18 lakh assistance

Key Improvements Under Revised Guidelines

1. Simplified Documentation for MSMEs

• Removes cumbersome clearance requirements that previously discouraged participation.

2. Flexible Sales Agreements

• Replaces the earlier mandatory 2-year buyer contracts with general sales arrangements, easing market access for small producers.

3. IoT-Based Monitoring Option

• Replaces cost-heavy SCADA systems with IoT or quarterly reporting, cutting compliance costs by up to 70 percent.

4. Performance-Based Subsidy Disbursal

• Full CFA only for projects operating at 80 percent or more Plant Load Factor (PLF)
• Below that, pro-rata CFA is disbursed
• Example: 70 percent performance = 7/8th of eligible subsidy

5. Shortened Inspection Requirement

• Reduced continuous operational inspection from 3 days (16 hours) to 10 hours, easing technical compliance.

6. Special Stubble Management Provisions

• Pellet plants in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and NCR can opt for support either under MNRE or CPCB scheme—aimed at curbing stubble burning.

Why Revisions Were Needed

Regulatory Overload for MSMEs

• Complex paperwork and approvals overwhelmed small players
• Example: Many MSMEs lacked the capacity to handle compliance with environmental norms

Monitoring Costs Too High

• SCADA systems cost ₹20–30 lakh, unaffordable for plants below 2 MTPH capacity

Persistent Stubble Burning

• Poor infrastructure for pelletization left over 20 million tonnes of paddy stubble unmanaged in Punjab alone (CEEW estimate)

Rigid CFA Norms

• Strict 80 percent performance cutoff excluded seasonal or semi-operational units, even if viable

Significance of the Revisions

Improved Business Viability

• Flexible sales terms and streamlined approvals boost investor confidence, especially in rural and Tier-2/3 markets
• Example: Traders can now enter pellet trade without locked-in contracts

Affordable Tech Access

• IoT and periodic monitoring make digital integration feasible for small units
• Promotes data-driven operations in rural biomass plants

Climate Action Support

• More biomass usage means less reliance on fossil fuels
• MNRE estimates: 1 MW of biomass saves approximately 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually

Boost to Rural Circular Economy

• Waste-to-energy conversion creates jobs and reduces open burning
• Briquette units generate 10–15 jobs per MTPH

Transparent, Output-Based Subsidy

• Ensures public funds are linked to actual plant performance, reducing misuse and promoting accountability

Conclusion

The revised Biomass Programme guidelines reflect a pragmatic, inclusive, and performance-driven approach to clean energy promotion. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and aligning incentives with operational efficiency, MNRE is making biomass a viable pathway for MSMEs and a key tool in India’s energy transition and climate strategy.

Global Navigation at Risk as GPS Interference Escalates

Overview
A string of recent incidents—including a commercial flight from Delhi to Jammu turning back, a tanker collision near the Strait of Hormuz, and a container ship grounding off Jeddah—have drawn global attention to the growing threat of GPS interference. This emerging risk now jeopardizes both aviation and maritime safety worldwide.

Understanding GPS Interference

GPS interference refers to the deliberate or accidental disruption of Global Positioning System signals, compromising location and timing accuracy for aircraft, ships, and other navigation systems.

Types of GPS Interference

1. Jamming
• Involves devices emitting powerful signals to overpower GPS frequencies.
• Disrupts satellite communication, causing receivers to lose lock on location and time data.
2. Spoofing
• Involves transmitting fake signals that mimic legitimate GPS satellites.
• Tricks systems into displaying incorrect positions or time, leading to misnavigation.
• Unlike jamming, spoofing manipulates rather than blocks GPS signals.

Why GPS Interference is Dangerous

1. Aviation and Maritime Hazards

• Aircraft can veer off course or misjudge altitude, raising the risk of collisions or controlled flight into terrain.
• Ships may run aground, collide, or fail to navigate safely in congested or narrow waters.
• Interference also affects road navigation, potentially causing gridlocks or emergency response delays.

2. Threat to Critical Infrastructure

• Systems like air traffic control, port operations, and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) are heavily GPS-reliant.
• Widespread interference could paralyze transport logistics, threaten lives, and disrupt global trade.

Rising Threat Levels

• In 2024, up to 700 GPS spoofing events were reported daily worldwide.
• These disruptions often stem from military operations, but nearby civilian sectors are frequently caught in the crossfire.

Key Interference Hotspots

1. Red Sea & Persian Gulf
• A surge in spoofing incidents due to regional tensions.
• Windward reported a 350% rise in spoofing cases in the Red Sea in early 2025.
2. Eastern Europe
• The Russia–Ukraine war has led to sustained GPS disruptions, especially affecting aviation routes.

Mitigation Measures: How Systems Respond

Aviation Countermeasures

• Redundant Navigation Systems:
• Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) use internal sensors to estimate position without external signals.
• VOR/DME radio beacons help triangulate aircraft positions.
• Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) allow GPS-independent landings.
• Crew Training:
• Regulatory bodies like DGCA now require pilots to be trained in recognizing and responding to spoofing.
• Pilots are encouraged to monitor ATC communications for early alerts.

Maritime Defenses

• Manual Navigation:
• When spoofed, ships revert to traditional methods using radars, paper charts, and lighthouses.
• Multi-GNSS Adoption:
• Vessels now increasingly rely on multiple satellite networks:
• U.S. GPS
• Russia’s GLONASS
• EU’s Galileo
• China’s Bei Dou
• This reduces the risk posed by spoofing of any single system.

Strategic Takeaway

Combating GPS interference requires a layered defense strategy:

• Backup and manual systems for redundancy
• Cross-constellation satellite integration for resilience
• Indigenous systems like India’s NavIC for national autonomy

With the global reliance on satellite navigation continuing to grow, protecting these systems is now essential for operational safety, national security, and economic stability.

ECI Cracks Down on 345 Unrecognised Political Parties Amid Accountability Drive

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken significant action against non-functional political entities by initiating the delisting of 345 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) from its official registry. This move is part of a broader effort to clean up the electoral space ahead of upcoming elections and curb the misuse of tax benefits and political privileges.

What Are RUPPs?

Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) are political associations registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, but which lack recognition as state or national parties due to inadequate electoral performance.

Privileges enjoyed by RUPPs include:

• Tax exemptions under Section 13A of the Income Tax Act, 1961
• Access to a common election symbol
• Nomination of up to 20 ‘star campaigners’ for poll campaigning

However, they are legally obligated to:

• Regularly contest elections
• File annual audit reports and contribution disclosures
• Disclose donations above ₹20,000 and avoid cash donations exceeding ₹2,000

Why the ECI Is Delisting 345 RUPPs

The ECI’s decision is rooted in multiple violations:

1. No electoral participation for over six years
2. Non-existent or unverifiable physical offices
3. Failure to submit statutory financial reports

This is the latest phase in a crackdown that began in 2022, during which:

• 284 RUPPs have already been delisted
• 253 have been declared inactive

The current batch of 345 is being served show-cause notices by Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs), whose recommendations will guide final delisting decisions.

Legal Limitations and Loopholes

The ECI’s authority is constrained by existing law:

• The right to form political parties is protected by Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution.
• Under Section 29A of the RP Act, the ECI can register a party but cannot de-register it unless fraud or constitutional disloyalty is proven.
• The Supreme Court’s 2002 ruling (Indian National Congress vs Institute of Social Welfare) confirmed that ECI lacks de-registration power under current law.

As such, the ECI’s present action involves delisting RUPPs from receiving benefits, not removing them as legal entities.

Financial Risks and Abuses

The crackdown comes amid increasing concerns that many RUPPs are:

• Claiming tax benefits without any electoral activity
• Operating as shell fronts for money laundering
• Selling nominations by fielding dummy candidates for withdrawal deals with major parties

By delisting such entities, the ECI aims to curb misuse of public resources and restore electoral integrity.

Calls for Reform

The need for deeper legislative reform has been well documented:

• The Law Commission’s 255th Report (2015) and ECI’s 2016 electoral reform proposal both called for:
• Allowing the ECI to de-register parties not contesting elections for 10 years
• Strengthening enforcement of compliance norms

Additionally, both the 170th and 255th Law Commission Reports recommended:

• Legal mandates for inner-party democracy
• Greater financial transparency and independent audits

Policy Recommendations Going Forward

1. Amend the RP Act, 1951 to empower the ECI to fully de-register non-compliant or inactive parties
2. Legislate inner-party democracy with enforceable rules on internal elections and leadership transparency
3. Establish independent auditing mechanisms, possibly overseen by a public accounting authority

Conclusion

The ECI’s delisting of 345 RUPPs is a major step toward cleaning up the political landscape and curbing abuse of electoral privileges. However, without legislative amendments and structural reforms, the commission’s efforts will remain limited in scope. Strengthening legal tools and ensuring internal transparency within parties will be crucial for long-term electoral integrity in India.

Legal Reforms Set to Open India’s Nuclear Sector to Private and Foreign Investment

India is moving to amend key atomic energy laws in a bid to unlock private sector participation and attract foreign investment in its nuclear power industry. Two legislative reforms are at the center of this transformation—amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA) and changes allowing private operation of nuclear power plants, a domain currently reserved for state-owned entities like NPCIL and NTPC.

Investor Concerns with Existing Nuclear Liability Law

1. Section 17(b): ‘Right of Recourse’

Under the CLNDA, Section 17(b) allows nuclear operators to seek compensation from suppliers in case of defective equipment or services that cause nuclear damage.

• Foreign vendors such as Westinghouse Electric (USA) and Framatome (France) have long objected to this provision, citing the risk of unpredictable post-sale liability as a deterrent to investment.

2. Broad Definition of ''Supplier''

The current law lacks a clear distinction between primary suppliers and sub-vendors, causing concern among Indian component manufacturers, who fear being drawn into liability disputes even when their contractual roles are minor or indirect.

Proposed Legal Amendments

India is now considering several reforms to address these issues:

A. Changes to CLNDA

• Dilution of Section 17(b) to align with global nuclear liability standards, such as those under the 1997 Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC).
• Clearer definition of ‘supplier’, explicitly excluding small sub-vendors unless stated otherwise in the contract.
• Introduction of a monetary cap on supplier liability—likely linked to the contract value.
• Time-bound liability limits, to reduce indefinite risk exposure for suppliers.

B. Private Participation in Nuclear Power Generation

• Proposed legal changes would allow private Indian companies to operate nuclear power plants, and permit foreign companies to hold minority stakes—a first for India''s tightly controlled nuclear sector.

C. Regulatory Safeguards

• The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) would maintain oversight of all projects, ensuring that safety is not compromised and that contractual liability terms are well-defined and enforced.

Aligning with International Frameworks

These legal adjustments would bring India''s liability regime in closer conformity with the CSC, to which India acceded in 2016.
The move is also meant to instill investor confidence by ensuring predictability and limiting exposure to long-term liabilities.

Breakthrough in Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Cooperation

In March 2025, the U.S. Department of Energy issued a 10CFR810 specific authorisation to Holtec International, enabling:

• Technology transfer of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to India
• Collaboration with Holtec Asia, Tata Consulting Engineers, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

Previously, U.S. export control laws had barred firms from engaging in nuclear component design and manufacturing in India. With this clearance, the onus is now on India to finalize its domestic legislative reforms and activate full-scale cooperation.

Conclusion: A Tipping Point for India’s Nuclear Industry

Legal experts and industry analysts agree that these reforms are critical to:

• Unlocking foreign technology and investment
• Revitalizing domestic nuclear manufacturing
• Enhancing India’s energy security and decarbonization goals

If passed, these legislative changes could catalyze the long-stalled Indo–U.S. civil nuclear partnership and usher in a new era of public–private collaboration in India’s nuclear energy sector—potentially transforming it into a high-growth, high-tech industry over the coming decade.

Western Ghats Conservation: A Community-Centric and Ecologically Just Approach

Context

Ecologist Madhav Gadgil has called for a shift in conservation strategy for the Western Ghats, emphasizing community-led governance in place of outdated forest bureaucracy and poor implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.

About the Western Ghats

• UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity.
• Stretch across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
• Serve as the origin for major rivers like Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
• Play a critical role in monsoon regulation, climate moderation, and biodiversity conservation.

Geological Formation

1. Precambrian Origin: Part of the Peninsular Shield, over 600 million years old.
2. Deccan Trap Volcanism: Basaltic lava flows formed step-like terrain.
3. Tectonic Faulting: The Arabian Sea coast subsided while the Ghats remained uplifted, forming sharp escarpments.
4. Erosion & Fluvial Action: Monsoon-fed rivers carved valleys and shaped rugged topography.

Key Ecological Features

• Hosts 7,400+ species, many endemic.
• Maintains peninsular India’s hydrological balance.
• Home to diverse valleys, escarpments, lateritic plateaus, and peaks like Anai Mudi (2,695 m).

Challenges to Conservation

1. Flawed Forest Governance
• Use of inflated and outdated data undermines planning.
• Example: Gadgil’s 1975 study exposed bamboo stock overestimations in Uttara Kannada.
2. Industrial Pollution
• Industries operate with state support but no accountability.
• Example: Grasim Rayon’s mercury discharge devastated the Chaliyar River ecosystem.
3. Non-Implementation of FRA
• Community Forest Rights (CFRs) remain pending in most districts.
• Result: Forest-dependent communities remain disenfranchised.
4. Monoculture & Pesticides
• Eucalyptus and acacia plantations harm native flora, pollinators, and soil microbes.
• Example: Wayanad’s biodiversity decline due to pesticide-intensive practices.
5. Forest Fires from Unsustainable Harvesting
• Fires are set to collect tendu leaves, damaging wildlife habitats.
• Examples: Frequent fires in Gadchiroli and Karnataka.
6. Opaque Forest Data
• Forest Survey of India (FSI) provides delayed, district-level data.
• Contrast: Satellite imagery in the 1970s revealed lower actual forest cover than official claims.

Conservation Committees

1. Gadgil Committee (WGEEP), 2011
• Proposed Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) zoning.
• Recommended CFR implementation and Gram Sabha-led conservation.
2. Kasturirangan Committee, 2013
• Diluted ESA zones.
• Favoured a development-oriented approach with less community participation.

Way Forward: A People-First Strategy

1. Implement Community Forest Rights (CFRs)

• Legally empower communities to manage, protect, and benefit from forests.
• Example: Pachgaon, Maharashtra—community earns income from bamboo and prevents fires.

2. Promote Democratic Decentralisation

• Strengthen Gram Sabhas and forest committees to lead conservation.
• Example: Kerala’s Vana Samrakshana Samiti (VSS) enables joint protection and profit-sharing.

3. Modernise Forest Data Systems

• Use tools like Global Forest Watch, Google Earth, and ISRO’s Bhuvan for real-time monitoring.
• Counter inaccurate official data with open-access, transparent satellite information.

4. Ban Unsustainable Industry in ESA Zones

• Enforce bans on mining and polluting industries in biodiversity hotspots.
• Example: Mining in Goa led to habitat fragmentation and groundwater depletion.

5. Promote Biodiversity-Compatible Livelihoods

• Support Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) enterprises, eco-tourism, and agro-forestry.
• Example: Wayanad’s tribal cooperatives export organic turmeric and wild honey.

Conclusion

The Western Ghats are not just a biodiversity treasure—they’re essential for India’s ecological stability, water security, and cultural heritage.
However, top-down, bureaucratic conservation has failed. Real progress depends on empowering local communities, respecting their rights, and making data-driven, ecologically sound decisions.
The future of this vital ecosystem lies in democratic, inclusive, and transparent governance.

Hong Kong International Convention (HKC) for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships

Context:
The HKC officially came into force on June 26, 2025, marking a major step toward sustainable ship recycling.

What is the HKC?

The Hong Kong Convention is a global treaty adopted under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) framework. It establishes legally binding standards for the safe and environmentally sound recycling of end-of-life ships.

Objectives

• Protect worker health and safety in shipbreaking yards.
• Prevent environmental contamination during dismantling.
• Control and phase out hazardous materials such as asbestos, PCBs, lead, and hydrocarbons.
• Ensure safe waste handling, disposal, and recycling of ship components.

Key Provisions and Features

1. Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM)
• Ships must maintain a certified IHM throughout their operational life.
• Identifies and locates hazardous substances onboard.
2. Ship Recycling Plan (SRP)
• Mandatory for all ships prior to dismantling.
• Must be prepared and approved by the competent authority in the recycling country.
3. Certified Recycling Facilities
• Only authorized and regulated ship recycling yards can undertake dismantling.
• Yards must comply with health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
4. Recycling Completion Certificate
• Issued by the recycling facility within 14 days of completion.
• Confirms compliance with all legal and safety protocols.
5. Independent Audits and Classification
• Certification and periodic inspections are conducted by recognized classification societies or approved inspectors.

Significance

• Aims to formalize and improve global shipbreaking practices, especially in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, where informal and hazardous dismantling is common.
• Aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
• Supports a circular economy by enabling the recovery of valuable materials from ships.

Model Rules for ‘Felling of Trees in Agricultural Land’ to Encourage Agroforestry

Overview:

The Government recently introduced model rules designed to facilitate agroforestry by simplifying the processes associated with felling and transporting trees, thereby encouraging farmers to adopt tree-based farming systems.

Key Elements:

• State-Level Committee (SLC):
  The existing committee established under the Wood-Based Industries (Establishment & Regulation) Guidelines, 2016 will be responsible for implementing and advising the state on promoting agroforestry and improving timber output through eased tree felling norms.
• Registration of Agricultural Plantations:
  Landowners must register their plantation details, along with proof of land ownership, on the National Timber Management System.
• Felling Approvals:
• For plots with more than 10 trees, a formal Felling Permit is required.
• For lands with 10 or fewer trees, a simple No Objection Certificate (NOC) will be issued.

Understanding Agroforestry:

• Definition:
  Agroforestry is a land-use approach that integrates the cultivation of trees with agricultural crops and/or livestock on the same parcel of land.
• Types of Agroforestry Systems:
• Agrisilviculture: Crops combined with trees
• Silvopasture: Trees integrated with animal husbandry
• Agrosilvopastoral: A mix of trees, crops, and pasture/livestock
• Prevalence in India:
  Agroforestry practices currently span about 28.42 million hectares, which accounts for 8.65% of the country’s total land area. The government classifies land as agroforestry if it has more than 10% tree cover.

Benefits of Agroforestry:

• Environmental Benefits:
  Agroforestry contributes to expanding tree cover outside designated forest areas and promotes sustainable land management. This aligns with India’s climate pledges under the Paris Agreement (NDCs).
• Economic Gains:
  Integrating trees into farmland can boost productivity, enhance soil and water quality, and help increase farmers’ incomes—supporting the vision of doubling farm earnings.
• Social Impact:
  The model supports improved rural livelihoods by generating stable employment opportunities and increasing household income.

Government Initiatives Promoting Agroforestry:

• National Agroforestry Policy (2014):
  Established to promote agroforestry systems across the country and to encourage research, development, and scale-up efforts.
• Sub-Mission on Agroforestry (SMAF):
  Operates under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) to implement agroforestry schemes.
• GROW Initiative by NITI Aayog:
  Aims to rejuvenate and make productive use of India’s wastelands through large-scale agroforestry programs.
• Amendment to the Indian Forest Act (1927):
  The 2017 amendment reclassified bamboo as a grass rather than a tree, thereby eliminating previous restrictions on harvesting and transport.

UN Reports Highlighted India’s Achievements in Child and Maternal Health

Recently published reports—"Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000 to 2023" and "Levels & Trends in Child Mortality 2024"—released by UN inter-agency groups have acknowledged India’s notable progress in improving child and maternal health outcomes.

India’s Major Accomplishments

• Decline in Zero-Dose Children:
  The proportion of children who did not receive the first dose of the DTP (Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis) vaccine—referred to as zero-dose children—dropped from 0.11% in 2023 to just 0.06% in 2024.
• Maternal and Child Mortality Reduction:
• Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): India witnessed an 86% reduction in MMR, significantly higher than the global decline of 48% since 1990. MMR refers to the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
• Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR): India saw a 78% drop in U5MR, in contrast to a 61% decline globally. U5MR measures the deaths of children under the age of five per 1,000 live births.
• Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR): A 70% reduction was recorded in neonatal deaths, which is well above the global decrease of 54%. NMR counts the number of infant deaths within the first 29 days of life per 1,000 live births.
• Polio-Free Status: Since 2014, India has successfully maintained its polio-free certification, largely due to sustained efforts such as the National Immunization Days (NIDs).

Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) Achievements

• Coverage:
  Annually, the UIP provides free immunization services to approximately 2.9 crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore infants (aged 0 to 1 year).
• Expanded Vaccine Portfolio:
  The number of diseases covered under UIP has increased from 6 in 2013 to 12 now.
• New Vaccines Added Post-2014:
  These include the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Rotavirus Vaccine, Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV), Measles-Rubella Vaccine, Adult Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine, and Tetanus-Diphtheria Vaccine.

Football for Schools (F4S) Programme

Recently, the Union Minister for Education led the distribution of FIFA-branded footballs under the Football for Schools (F4S) initiative at PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya, located in Fort William, Kolkata, West Bengal.

Overview of the Football for Schools (F4S) Programme

The Football for Schools programme is a large-scale initiative run by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in partnership with UNESCO. Its goal is to support the education, growth, and empowerment of approximately 700 million children worldwide.

The programme strives to make football accessible to both boys and girls by integrating football-related activities into school curricula, working closely with relevant educational authorities and other stakeholders. It is designed to foster specific life skills and competencies through football, contributing to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other global priorities.

F4S aligns with international policies related to sport, education, and health, such as UNESCO’s Kazan Action Plan, the Education 2030 agenda including the Incheon Declaration and Framework for Action, and the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA).

Timeline and Implementation

Launched in mid-2019, the programme began with pilot projects in Puerto Rico and Lebanon. It was planned to expand to additional regions starting in 2021 and is set to continue at least until 2023.

In India, the Football for Schools initiative is managed by the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education. The programme also receives support from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

Key Objectives

• Empower boys and girls with essential life skills and competencies through football.
• Equip coaches and educators with specialized training to effectively deliver sport and life-skills sessions.
• Enhance the capacity of stakeholders, including schools, member associations (MAs), and public authorities, to facilitate life skills education through football.
• Foster stronger collaboration among governments, MAs, and participating schools to encourage partnerships, alliances, and cross-sector cooperation.

Khasi People

The Meghalaya High Court has recently accepted a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the future of hundreds of tribal certificate applications from the Khasi community. This follows a government decision that has effectively stopped the issuance of Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates to certain applicants.

About the Khasi Tribe

The Khasi are an indigenous tribal community primarily inhabiting the Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. Small Khasi populations also live in Assam and parts of Bangladesh.

Believed to have migrated from Tibet or Burma around 500 BCE, the Khasi are among the region’s earliest ethnic groups. They consist of several clans, including Lyngdoh, Diengdoh, Marbaniang, Shiemliah, Lapang, and Songkali.

Physically, the Khasi are typically of short stature.

Language and Culture

The Khasi language forms a core part of their identity and remains the primary means of daily communication within the community. While English and Hindi are also spoken, Khasi holds a unique cultural significance.

A distinctive feature of Khasi society is its matrilineal system, where lineage and inheritance pass through the mother’s side. Women play a central role in family decision-making and management.

Religion

The majority of Khasi people are Christians, though there are minorities practicing Hinduism and Islam.

Livelihood and Profession

Traditionally, the Khasi have relied on cultivation for their livelihood. However, in contemporary times, many Khasi youths have ventured into professional careers such as medicine, engineering, business, and education.

The Khasi are officially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in India, granting them specific legal privileges. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council serves as the governing body that protects their customary laws.

Festivals and Traditions

• Shad Suk Mynsiem: A spring festival celebrating nature, fertility, and gratitude, featuring traditional dances by men and women in customary attire.
• Nongkrem Dance Festival: A five-day religious event involving prayers for a bountiful harvest.
• Behdienkhlam Festival: A celebration intended to ward off evil spirits and invoke health and prosperity.

Traditional Khasi music includes instruments such as the Duitara (a stringed instrument) and the Tangmuri (a bamboo flute).

Living Root Bridges

A remarkable symbol of Khasi harmony with nature is their living root bridges, which are formed by guiding the roots of the Ficus elastica tree to grow across rivers and ravines, creating strong natural bridges. These bridges can span up to 100 feet and last for centuries.

The most renowned example is the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge located in Nongriat village.

Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (CSSS)

The CBSE has recently announced the application window for the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (CSSS) for the academic year 2025-26. Eligible students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal at scholarships.gov.in.

About the Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan (PM-USP), also known as the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students, is implemented by the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education. The main goal of this scheme is to provide financial aid to academically meritorious students from economically disadvantaged families, helping them cover part of their daily expenses while pursuing higher education.

Scholarships under this scheme are awarded based on the students’ performance in their Higher Secondary or Class 12 Board Examinations.

Scholarship Allocation

Each year, up to 82,000 new scholarships are granted—divided equally with 41,000 for boys and 41,000 for girls—to support students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses such as medicine and engineering.

The total scholarships are distributed among State Education Boards proportional to the population of the 18–25 age group in each state. Additionally, shares for CBSE and ICSE are determined based on the number of passing students from these boards nationally.

Within each State Education Board’s allotment, scholarships are distributed among students from Science, Commerce, and Humanities streams in a 3:2:1 ratio. If there are fewer applicants from one stream, slots can be reallocated to others.

Scholarship Benefits

• At the undergraduate level, recipients receive ₹12,000 per annum for the first three years of study.
• Postgraduate students receive ₹20,000 annually.
• For students in professional courses lasting five years or integrated programs, ₹20,000 per year is awarded during the 4th and 5th years.
• Technical course students, such as those pursuing B.Tech or B.Engg, receive ₹12,000 per year for the first three years and ₹20,000 in the 4th year.

Payments are made directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Eligibility Criteria

• Students must be enrolled in regular degree programs at institutions recognized by the All India Council for Technical Education or other relevant regulatory bodies.
• The combined annual income of the applicant’s family should not exceed ₹4,50,000.
• To renew the scholarship annually, students must secure at least 50% marks in their exams and maintain a minimum of 75% attendance.
• Applicants must have their own bank accounts.
• Applications require verification by the student’s college or university. Without this institutional verification, the application will be deemed invalid.
• Students may be asked to present original documents to their institution for validation.

Exclusions

• Students enrolled in correspondence, distance education, or diploma courses are not eligible.
• Those already benefiting from other scholarships or state-run fee waiver/reimbursement schemes cannot apply.

Myogenesis

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla recently initiated pioneering myogenesis experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS), showcasing India’s growing capabilities in space science.

What is Myogenesis?

Myogenesis refers to the biological process through which muscle fibers are formed. It is a highly intricate and carefully controlled process vital for the formation and upkeep of skeletal muscle tissue.

The importance of myogenesis lies in its contribution to building the body’s muscles, which are essential for enabling movement, maintaining posture, and regulating metabolism.

This process involves the transformation of precursor cells called myoblasts into multinucleated muscle fibers. Myogenesis is not only critical during the embryonic phase but also remains important throughout life, as it facilitates muscle repair and regeneration.

Studying myogenesis helps us better understand how muscles develop, the causes of muscle-related diseases, and how treatments for such conditions can be designed.

Overview of the Myogenic Process

The myogenic process includes several key stages: proliferation of myoblasts, their differentiation, fusion into multinucleated myotubes, and finally maturation into fully formed muscle fibers. Each phase is controlled by a sophisticated network of transcription factors, signaling molecules, and cellular mechanisms.

Role of Key Transcription Factors

Transcription factors like MyoD and Myf5 are central to regulating myogenesis. These myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) are critical in defining myoblast identity and guiding their development into muscle fibers.

• MyoD acts as a master regulator by initiating the expression of muscle-specific genes and driving myoblast differentiation.
• Myf5 operates primarily during early myogenesis, overseeing myoblast proliferation and commitment.

Cellular Processes in Myogenesis

Two vital cellular processes regulate myogenesis:

• Cell Proliferation: This initial stage ensures enough myoblasts are produced before differentiation begins.
• Cell Differentiation: This phase involves molecular changes that prepare myoblasts to merge and create multinucleated myotubes.

Botrytis Fungi

Recent studies by researchers at Sichuan University and the University of British Columbia have revealed that Botrytis fungi (Botrytis cinerea) cannot be cloned.

About Botrytis Fungi

Botrytis cinerea is a common necrotrophic fungal pathogen. It requires nutrients from dead or damaged plant tissues to successfully infect and invade plants.

Such tissues—like aged flower petals—provide the necessary nourishment that strengthens the infection, allowing it to spread into healthy parts of the plant. The fungus causes a characteristic brown rot on newly infected tissues, leading to plant deterioration.

Though Botrytis fungi mainly target flowers and fruit, they can also cause rot and blight in other plant parts including buds, stems, leaves, roots, bulbs, and tubers. The fungus typically attacks delicate, injured, aging, or dead tissue.

In grapes, Botrytis penetrates the skin, causing water loss by evaporation which shrivels the berries, concentrating sugars and flavors, a process sometimes desirable in winemaking.

Moreover, the fungus exhibits a unique behavior by releasing organic acids such as oxalic acid, which acidify its immediate environment to aid infection.

Trachoma

In a recent episode of the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, the Prime Minister of India announced that India has been declared free of Trachoma, a bacterial eye disease.

What is Trachoma?

Trachoma is an infectious eye disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It primarily affects the eyes and can lead to blindness if untreated.

How does Trachoma Spread?

The infection is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with the secretions from the eyes, eyelids, nose, or throat of an infected person. If left untreated, it can cause permanent blindness.

Trachoma is commonly found in communities living in poor sanitary and environmental conditions.

Global Impact

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Trachoma as a neglected tropical disease. It is estimated that around 150 million people worldwide suffer from this condition.

Government of India’s Efforts

India initiated the National Trachoma Control Program in 1963, which was later incorporated into the National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB).

Due to sustained efforts, India was declared free of infective Trachoma in 2017. However, surveillance for Trachoma cases continued nationwide from 2019 until 2024.

Between 2021 and 2024, the National Trachomatous Trichiasis (TT only) Survey was conducted across 200 endemic districts as part of the National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI). This survey was required by WHO to confirm that India had eliminated Trachoma as a public health issue.

WHO’s SAFE Strategy for Trachoma Elimination

The WHO recommends the SAFE strategy to eliminate Trachoma:

• Surgery: To treat the advanced stage of the disease called trachomatous trichiasis, which can cause blindness.
• Antibiotics: Use of medicines like azithromycin to clear the infection.
• Facial cleanliness: Promoting hygiene to reduce transmission.
• Environmental improvement: Enhancing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Exoplanet: TWA 7b

• Discovery: First new exoplanet discovered by the James Webb Space Telescope.
• Location: Orbits the low-mass star CE Antilae (TWA 7) inside debris rings.
• Unique Feature: Ten times lighter than any previously directly imaged exoplanet.
• Exoplanet Basics:
• Planets orbiting stars outside our solar system.
• Habitable zone exoplanets are prime targets for searching extraterrestrial life.
• Closest known exoplanet to Earth: Proxima Centauri b, ~4 light-years away.

GoIStats App

On Statistics Day 2025, the National Sample Survey Office (NSO), operating under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), unveiled the GoIStats mobile application.

About the GoIStats App

The GoIStats app embodies the NSO’s vision of building a comprehensive data ecosystem, enabling all stakeholders to easily access official government data anytime and anywhere through their mobile devices.

Features of the GoIStats App

• The app offers an interactive "Key Trends" dashboard presenting essential socio-economic indicators. It features dynamic visualizations of important metrics such as GDP, inflation, and employment figures.
• It includes visual data storytelling tools, like a curated section of infographics that simplify complex statistics into easy-to-understand insights. The app also provides interactive charts and graphs with detailed explanations and social media sharing options to enhance data literacy among users.
• Users can access NSO’s reports and publications with the option to download them instantly. The app regularly updates content according to NSO’s publication schedule and notifies users of new releases.

Remittances to India

• Current Status:
• Reached $135.46 billion in 2024-25, up 14% from previous year.
• More than doubled since $61 billion in 2016-17.
• Economic Significance:
• Account for over 10% of India’s $1 trillion gross current account inflows (FY25).
• Cover 47% of India’s $287 billion merchandise trade deficit.
• Surpass gross inward foreign direct investment (FDI), providing a stable source of external financing.

India Energy Stack (IES)

Context:
The Ministry of Power has established a task force to develop the India Energy Stack (IES), a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) aimed at revolutionizing India’s power sector with secure, interoperable digital systems.

About India Energy Stack (IES):

• The IES is an all-encompassing digital infrastructure designed for the power sector to facilitate seamless, secure, and real-time coordination across electricity generation, distribution, and consumption.
• Developed by: The Ministry of Power, Government of India.

Objectives:

• To modernize the power sector by creating a unified digital foundation.
• To enable secure, permission-based data sharing and real-time data analytics.
• To enhance consumer-focused services and improve the efficiency of the electricity grid.
• To support India’s commitments toward Net Zero emissions and economic growth.

Key Features:

• Unique Identifiers: Assigned to consumers, energy assets, and energy transactions to ensure accurate tracking and transparency.
• Real-Time Consent-Based Data Sharing: Facilitates secure, permissioned, and instant data exchange among consumers, utilities, and policymakers.
• Open APIs for Interoperability: Allows integration with third-party applications, startups, and service providers to foster innovation.
• Utility Intelligence Platform (UIP): A modular tool built on IES offering analytics, insights, and decision-making support to DISCOMs, policymakers, and consumers.
• Consumer Empowerment Tools: Features that allow users to make informed choices, compare options, and actively participate in energy markets.

Expected Outcomes:

• Release of a White Paper on IES to gather public feedback and guide policy formulation.
• Pilot implementations in Delhi, Gujarat, and Mumbai to test real-world applications.
• Development of a national rollout plan based on pilot results, scalability, and feedback.
• Improved grid resilience, better integration of renewable energy sources, and enhanced DISCOM operational efficiency.
• A digital transformation of India’s power infrastructure on the scale of landmark projects like Aadhaar and UPI.

National Sample Survey (NSS)

Context:
The National Sample Survey (NSS) has recently gained attention as it marked its 75th anniversary during the 19th National Statistics Day celebrations.

What is NSS?

• The NSS is a large-scale, nationwide socio-economic data collection initiative carried out by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), which functions under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
• It stands as a key source of reliable data that supports policy-making, developmental initiatives, and academic research across India.

Establishment:

• Launched in 1950, the NSS was inspired by the vision of Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis, aiming to produce reliable, timely, and comparable socio-economic statistics through sample survey methods.

Objectives:

• To generate accurate socio-economic data to aid effective policy decisions.
• To conduct extensive household surveys on topics like consumption patterns, employment status, health, education, and more.
• To perform the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), which evaluates the performance of the industrial sector.
• To assist in agricultural data collection by supervising crop area and yield estimations.
• To monitor price fluctuations in both rural and urban markets.

Key Features:

• Nationwide Coverage: The surveys are implemented across rural and urban regions of India using scientifically designed sampling methods.
• Organizational Structure:
• Survey Design & Research Division (SDRD): Handles technical planning and survey design, based in Kolkata.
• Field Operations Division (FOD): Manages data collection through over 170 field offices, headquartered in Delhi/Faridabad.
• Data Processing Division (DPD): Responsible for data validation, tabulation, software development, and processing data from PLFS and ASI.
• Survey Coordination Division (SCD): Oversees overall coordination and publishes the Sarvekshana journal.
• Multi-Thematic Coverage: Surveys encompass diverse areas such as consumption, employment, health, education, migration, and informal sector activities.
• Support for Agricultural and Industrial Data: Strengthens crop estimation surveys and validates industrial data through the ASI web portal.
• Integrated Data Framework: Maintains urban sampling frames and increasingly uses digital tools and real-time data processing to improve survey efficiency.

Begonia nyishiorum

Forest officials in Arunachal Pradesh have recently identified a new flowering plant species called Begonia nyishiorum, which is native exclusively to the East Kameng district of the state.

• This plant thrives on moist, shaded mountain slopes at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level.
• It is distinguished by its dense crimson, fringed scales covering its light green petioles, a feature never before seen in Asian begonias.
• So far, Begonia nyishiorum is found only at two forest locations within East Kameng. Its unique petiole fringe differentiates it from over 2,150 begonia species globally.
• The species name “nyishiorum” is a tribute to the Nyishi tribe, who have traditionally protected these high-altitude forests.
• According to the IUCN Red List, this species is currently classified as Data Deficient, indicating insufficient information for an assessment of its conservation status.

Similipal Tiger Reserve

The Odisha High Court recently issued a notice to the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), Baripada, regarding a ban that prevents Munda tribal members from Jamunagarh village from performing sacred rituals at Jayara, a holy site inside Similipal Tiger Reserve.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve:

• Located in Mayurbhanj District at Odisha’s northern tip, Similipal Tiger Reserve lies within the Deccan Peninsular Biogeographic Zone, hosting a unique blend of biodiversity from the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and the eastern Himalayas.
• The reserve covers an area of 2,750 square kilometers and features scenic waterfalls like Joranda and Barehipani.
• It forms part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, alongside Hadgarh and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• The terrain is mostly hilly and undulating, with the highest peaks being the twin summits of Khairiburu and Meghashini, standing at 1,515 meters above sea level.
• Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956 and incorporated into Project Tiger in 1973, Similipal was recognized as a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves site in 2009.

Geography and Hydrology:

• At least twelve rivers run through the plains of Similipal, draining into the Bay of Bengal. Important rivers include Burhabalanga, Palpala Bandan, Salandi, Kahairi, and Deo.

Inhabitants:

• The reserve is home to various tribal groups, including Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Bhatudi, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.

Flora and Vegetation:

• The reserve hosts a variety of forest types with northern tropical moist deciduous forests dominating alongside patches of semi-evergreen areas.
• The vegetation reflects a botanical link between South Indian and Northeastern Sub-Himalayan species.
• Sal trees are the most common species.
• Extensive grasslands within the reserve provide grazing areas for herbivorous wildlife.
• Many plants in the forest are valued for their medicinal and aromatic qualities.

Fauna:

• Similipal is famous for its populations of tigers, elephants, and hill mynahs. It harbors the largest tiger population in Odisha.
• Other prominent mammals include leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, gaur (Indian bison), jungle cats, wild boars, four-horned antelope, giant squirrels, and common langurs.

Sariska Tiger Reserve

Context:
The Central Government''s proposal to redraw the boundaries of Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan to allow reopening of 50 closed mines (including marble, dolomite, limestone, and masonic stone) has faced strong opposition from conservationists and local stakeholders.

About Sariska Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Situated in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, within the Aravalli Hills.
• History & Status:
• Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1958.
• Became a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1978.
• Upgraded to National Park status in 1982.
• Famous globally for successfully reintroducing tigers after they were locally extinct by 2004.
• Area & Terrain:
• Covers a total of 1,203.34 sq km — Core area of 881 sq km and Buffer area of 322.23 sq km.
• Terrain includes scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and rocky hills.
• Ecological Importance:
• Falls within the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forest ecoregion.
• Acts as a crucial corridor for the Northern Aravalli Leopard and Wildlife Corridor, linking habitats and supporting biodiversity.
• Wildlife:
• Hosts diverse fauna including tigers, leopards, nilgai, sambhar, chital, peafowls, serpent eagles, vultures, and horned owls.
• Tiger Revival:
• By 2004, Sariska lost all its tigers due to poaching.
• Between 2008 and 2010, tigers were successfully relocated from Ranthambore National Park through aerial translocation.
• By 2025, the tiger population rebounded to 48, highlighting a significant conservation success story.

National Turmeric Board Inaugurated in Telangana

Context:
The Union Home Minister inaugurated the headquarters of the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana, fulfilling a 40-year demand of turmeric farmers.

About the National Turmeric Board:

• Type: Specialized statutory body to promote, regulate, and support the turmeric sector.
• Location: Nizamabad, Telangana — known as the “Turmeric Capital of India.”
• Governance: Operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with coordination from Ministries of AYUSH, Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals, and Cooperation.
• Composition: Chairperson appointed by Central Government, Secretary from Department of Commerce, members from related ministries, turmeric-producing states, farmer representatives, exporters, and research bodies.

Objectives:

• Value addition, branding, and marketing of turmeric products.
• Eliminate middlemen and improve farmer income.
• Promote global awareness of turmeric’s medicinal properties.
• Improve logistics and quality to meet international standards.
• Provide training, skill development, and research support.

Key Functions:

• Build export infrastructure.
• Promote GI-tagged organic turmeric.
• Ensure compliance with international food and safety standards.
• Coordinate with Spices Board and cooperatives for export facilitation.

Status of Turmeric in India:

• India produces over 75% of global turmeric, with 30+ indigenous varieties.
• Grown in 20+ states; major producers include Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
• Requires tropical climate, well-drained loamy soil.
• 2022–23 stats: 3.24 lakh hectares cultivation area, 11.61 lakh tonnes production, 1.53 lakh tonnes export worth USD 207.45 million.
• Export target: USD 1 billion by 2030.
• Major export destinations: Bangladesh, UAE, USA, Malaysia.

Bihar Launches India’s First Mobile e-Voting System in Local Body Polls

Context:
Bihar became the first Indian state to conduct local body elections using a mobile phone-based e-voting system, achieving 70.2% voter turnout via this platform.

What is it?
A mobile-based electronic voting system called E-SECBHR allowing remote voting during urban local body elections.

Developed by:
Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

Objectives:

• Facilitate inclusive, accessible, and contactless voting.
• Increase participation among elderly, disabled, pregnant women, and those unable to visit polling stations.
• Promote digital empowerment and ease of voting.

How it Works:

• Voters download the E-SECBHR app (Android only).
• Link their mobile number to electoral roll after voter ID verification.
• Vote remotely on election day through the app or SEC website.

Key Features:

• Secure and user-friendly app interface.
• Remote voting capability.
• Biometric verification through facial recognition.
• Real-time backend monitoring.
• Multilingual support.

Security Measures:

• Blockchain technology ensures vote immutability.
• Facial recognition to verify identity.
• Login restrictions: max two users per mobile, unique voter ID required.
• Digital audit trail for transparency.

Impact:

• Bibha Kumari of East Champaran became the first Indian voter to cast vote via mobile.
• Sets a precedent for digital electoral reforms and smart governance.
• Could be a model for future state or national level elections.

Early Harappan Burial Discovery in Gujarat’s Lakhapar

Context:
A 5,300-year-old Early Harappan settlement and burial site discovered in Lakhapar village, Kutch, Gujarat, is offering fresh insights into cultural interactions between Early Harappan and Chalcolithic communities.

Location:

• Lakhapar village, Kutch district, Gujarat.
• Excavation led by the University of Kerala’s Department of Archaeology.

What was Discovered?

• An Early Harappan habitation and burial site dating from approximately 3300 to 2600 BCE.
• This site complements findings from nearby Juna Khatiya, another Early Harappan cemetery with 197 burials.

Key Findings:

• Human Burial with Pre-Prabhas Pottery:
• First direct pit burial with no markers or architecture found in Gujarat.
• Pottery matches Chalcolithic cultures of Saurashtra like Prabhas Patan and Datrana.
• Harappan-Style Architecture:
• Sandstone and shale structures show planned building practices indicating social organization.
• Cultural Interaction Evidence:
• Ceramics and habitation patterns resemble Early Harappan sites in Sindh, indicating cross-regional cultural exchanges.
• Interconnected Settlement Network:
• Combined with Juna Khatiya burials, suggests a larger Early Harappan cultural sphere in Gujarat.

Significance:

• Expands Early Harappan Geography: Shows Harappan cultural influence went deeper into western India than previously recognized.
• Earliest Burial with Pre-Prabhas Pottery: Provides a crucial link between Chalcolithic and Harappan cultures in Gujarat.
• Challenges Linear Historical Models: Suggests co-existence of diverse groups— foragers, agro-pastoralists, and emerging urban communities.
• Fills Data Gaps: Most Harappan burials studied before are from the Mature Harappan phase; this site offers rare pre-urban insights.
• Strengthens Cultural Chronology: Reinforces Gujarat as a cultural bridge between Sindh (Indus Valley) and peninsular India.

Madagascar

• Capital: Antananarivo
• Recent Event: India’s Minister of State for Defence represented India at Madagascar’s 65th Independence Day celebrations.
• Political and Geographic Features:
• Located in the Indian Ocean, ~250 miles off southeast Africa.
• Maritime neighbors: Comoros, France (Mayotte and Réunion), Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles.
• Fourth largest island globally.
• Hosts about 5% of the world’s plant and animal species; ~80% are endemic (found only there).
• Role in Indian Monsoon:
• The Mascarene High near Madagascar causes the south-west monsoon winds.
• These moisture-rich south-easterly winds move toward Somalia, cross the equator, turn into south-westerlies, and head to India.
• Monsoon retreats via Tibet and dissipates back over Madagascar in September.