Savitribai Phule, First Women Teacher in india 

• Savitribai Phule, born on January 3, 1831, in Maharashtra, was a trailblazer in women’s education and social reform in India.
• She became the first woman teacher in the country and dedicated her life to uplifting women and the marginalised. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently honoured her contributions, recognising her as a beacon of empowerment.
• Savitribai was married at the age of 10 to Jyotirao Phule. He played important role in her education, teaching her at home and later enrolling her in a teachers’ training programme in Pune.
• This partnership was foundational in their joint efforts to challenge societal norms.
• In 1848, the Phules opened the first girls’ school in Bhidewada, Pune. This initiative faced severe opposition from society, particularly from upper-caste individuals who believed that educating girls would undermine national identity. Despite hostility, they continued to establish more schools for girls and lower castes.
• Savitribai faced adversity, including physical violence and public humiliation. Upper-caste men would throw stones and mud at her as she walked to school. Undeterred, she famously remarked that such attacks felt like flowers to her, demonstrating her resilience.
• Beyond education, Savitribai was a fierce advocate for social reform. She established the Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha to support pregnant widows and fought against practices like child marriage and sati. She promoted inter-caste marriages and widow remarriage, challenging deep-rooted social norms
• In 1873, she co-founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, aimed at achieving social equality for all, regardless of caste or religion. This society promoted education and equality, rejecting traditional Brahmanical marriage rituals in favour of a pledge for social justic
• Savitribai was also a prolific writer. Her first poetry collection, Kavya Phule, was published in 1854. She continued to write and publish works that addressed social issues and advocated for women’s rights throughout her life.
• Savitribai Phule’s legacy is deep. She was involved in relief efforts during the 1896 famine and the 1897 bubonic plague, ultimately succumbing to the disease while helping others. Her life was marked by courage, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the oppressed.

India’s first organic fisheries cluster launched in Sikkim, ₹50 crore projects unveiled

•  Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh on Monday inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 projects worth ₹50 crores under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Guwahati, Assam.
• The projects, announced during the North Eastern Region State Meet-2025, span various North Eastern Region (NER) states, with the exception of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.
• As part of the event, the minister launched India’s first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim, under the PMMSY initiative. This development is intended to promote organic fisheries and aquaculture in alignment with Sikkim’s organic farming practices, aiming to encourage sustainable and environmentally friendly production. 
• The cluster will incorporate ecological fish farming methods, avoiding harmful chemicals and promoting minimal environmental pollution. This approach supports sustainable production, mitigates ecosystem damage, and aligns with market trends favoring organic products. Key fish species, including amur carp, will form part of this initiative. NABARD will support the cluster by funding infrastructure, building capacities, and forming fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
• The PMMSY implements a cluster-based approach designed to enhance competitiveness, create economies of scale, and strengthen fisheries’ value chains across India. This model brings together enterprises from production to export, fostering cooperation and addressing value chain gaps to create business opportunities and livelihoods.
• Under this framework, production and processing clusters will be developed in key areas such as freshwater aquaculture, brackish-water fisheries, ornamental fisheries, and organic fisheries, addressing region-specific needs. 
• The North Eastern Region is prioritized as a key area for fisheries development. The region’s freshwater resources and aquatic biodiversity support efforts to increase inland fish production and boost economic development.
• Investments of ₹2,114 crore have been made in the NER through initiatives such as the PMMSY, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund, and the Blue Revolution Scheme. 
• These initiatives have led to an increase in inland fish production from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, reflecting annual growth in the sector. Current efforts include the establishment of aquaculture parks, hatcheries, fish processing units, and the promotion of technologies such as Biofloc systems and recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS). 
• The newly announced projects in the NER, with a central investment of ₹38.63 crore, aim to generate over 4,500 employment opportunities, both direct and indirect, in the region. These steps are part of India’s broader strategy to sustain its position as the world’s second-largest fish producer and a major contributor to global aquaculture and shrimp exports. 
• Since 2015, the Government of India has invested ₹38,572 crore in fisheries initiatives to expand infrastructure, improve productivity, and drive sustainable development. These efforts have positioned the fisheries sector as an integral part of the country’s economy and a contributor to its Blue Economy vision.

Indonesia officially joins BRICS as full member, endorsed by leaders of block

•  Brazil has announced that Indonesia has become a full member of the BRICS group. Brazil, which holds the presidency of the BRICS in 2025, said that Indonesia’s candidature was endorsed by leaders of the bloc at the Johannesburg summit in 2023.
• In a statement, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry welcomed Indonesia for its entry into BRICS. It said that Indonesia and other BRICS members support the reform of the global governance institutions.
• “The Brazilian government welcomes Indonesia for its entry into BRICS. As the largest economy and most populous nation in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares with other BRICS members the support for the reform of the global governance institutions and contributes significantly to the deepening of Global South cooperation, priorities that align with Brazil’s theme for its presidency: “Enhancing Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” Brazilian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
• Indonesia formally notified the group of its interest in joining BRICS only after the establishment of its new government. In 2024, the BRICS nations approved by consensus Indonesia’s membership in line with the guiding principles, criteria, and procedures for expansion agreed upon in Johannesburg, according to the statement.
• BRIC, as a formal grouping, started after the meeting of the Leaders of Russia, India and China in St Petersburg on the margins of G8 Outreach Summit in 2006. The grouping was formalized during the first meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers on the margins of UNGA in New York in 2006.
• The first BRIC Summit was held in Russia’s Yekaterinburg in 2009. It was agreed to expand BRIC into BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa at the BRIC Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York in 2010.
• South Africa attended the 3rd BRICS Summit in Sanya in 2011. A further expansion of BRICS took place in 2024 with five new members – Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The 16th BRICS Summit was being held under Russia’s chairmanship in Kazan in 2024.

Department of Legal Affairs has marked 2024 as a year with significant achievements.

The Department of Legal Affairs has marked 2024 as a year of significant achievements, with wide-ranging reforms and legal developments aimed at modernizing the Indian legal landscape.

• Key initiatives include the implementation of new criminal laws, extensive consultations on simultaneous elections, digital advancements, and international cooperation.
• High-Level Committee Submits Report on Simultaneous Elections.
• Initially, simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies would be held, followed by synchronized elections for Municipalities and Panchayats within 100 days.
• The committee highlighted the need for a single electoral roll and the use of Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) across all elections.
• New Criminal Laws replace Colonial-Era statutes

Department of Legal Affairs celebrates milestones in 2024 with major reforms and initiatives

• In a landmark shift, the government implemented three new criminal laws in July 2024—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023—replacing the outdated colonial laws.
• These laws address modern crimes, emphasize the use of electronic trials, and set a three-year limit for criminal trials to expedite justice.
• Nationwide conferences were held to prepare stakeholders for the new laws, ensuring a smooth transition to the updated legal framework.

22nd Law Commission delivers Key Reports

• The 22nd Law Commission of India submitted multiple reports in 2024, tackling significant issues such as matrimonial laws for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), a review of defamation laws, and a comprehensive examination of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.
• The Commission recommended stricter laws for NRI marriages and upheld criminal defamation, citing the protection of reputation under Article 21 of the Constitution.

India and Singapore Sign MoU on Legal Cooperation

• In March 2024, India and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation in law and dispute resolution. The MoU aims to enhance collaboration on international commercial disputes and strengthen alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity Focus

• 2024 also witnessed significant strides in the digitalization of the legal system. The launch of the Notary Portal has streamlined notarial services, allowing legal practitioners to submit applications, monitor progress, and receive digitally signed certificates.
• Also, the Ministry introduced the Legal Information Management and Briefing System (LIMBS) for real-time court case tracking. Cybersecurity has also become a priority, with the Department developing a Cyber Security Crisis Management Plan to safeguard digital infrastructure.

Constitution Day Celebration and Launch of Hindi Course

• On Constitution Day, November 26, 2024, the Department of Legal Affairs, in collaboration with NALSAR University of Law, launched an online course on the Indian Constitution in Hindi. The course, designed to educate citizens about constitutional rights and responsibilities, consists of 15 videos covering key aspects of the Constitution.

International Engagement and BRICS Cooperation.

• India participated in the BRICS Ministers of Justice Meeting on September 18, 2024, showcasing its legal reforms and achievements. India’s representatives highlighted the enactment of the Mediation Act as a critical step toward reducing the judicial burden through alternative dispute resolution.

ICMR detects two cases of HMPV in Karnataka, surveillance indicates no unusual surge

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Monday confirmed that two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases have been detected in Karnataka. The cases, detected as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses, highlight the effectiveness of the country’s robust surveillance systems, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• HMPV, a respiratory virus already in circulation worldwide, including India, has been linked to respiratory illnesses in several countries.
• Despite the detection of these cases, data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) confirm that there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) across the nation.
• The first case involved a 3-month-old female infant admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru with bronchopneumonia. She was diagnosed with HMPV and has since been discharged.
• The second case, an 8-month-old male infant, tested positive on January 3, 2025, after being admitted to the same hospital with a similar condition. He is currently recovering. Neither of the infants has a history of international travel, indicating localized transmission of the virus.
• The health ministry is actively monitoring the situation through extensive surveillance networks, with ICMR continuing to track the virus’s circulation throughout the year. Updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the global status of HMPV, including developments in China, are being closely followed to guide preventive measures.
• Authorities have assured the public that there is no immediate cause for concern, with surveillance and response mechanisms firmly in place to ensure public health safety.

Digital data protection rules to empower citizens, curb harms: Govt

• The draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) rules aim to safeguard citizens’ rights for the protection of their personal data and address specific challenges like unauthorized commercial use of data and digital harms, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology said on Friday
• The rules aim to give citizens greater control over their personal data by introducing provisions for informed consent, data erasure rights, and an effective grievance redressal mechanism. Parents and guardians are also empowered to ensure online safety for their children, the official statement explained.
• Designed to empower citizens in a rapidly growing digital economy, the rules strive to achieve the right balance between regulation and innovation, ensuring that the benefits of India’s growing innovation ecosystem are accessible to all citizens and contribute to the country’s digital economy, the statement added.
• Data Fiduciaries—entities responsible for handling personal data—are required to provide clear and accessible information about how data is processed, enabling citizens to make informed decisions. The framework places citizens at the core of the data protection system.
• The statement highlights that India’s model strikes a unique balance between fostering innovation and protecting personal data.
• Unlike restrictive global frameworks, these rules encourage economic growth while prioritizing citizen welfare. Stakeholders view this as a potential global template for data governance.
• The framework also aims to reduce compliance burdens for smaller businesses and startups. An adequate transition period will be provided to ensure all stakeholders, from small enterprises to large corporations, can smoothly adapt to the new law, the statement said.
• Embracing a “digital by design” philosophy, the rules focus on consent mechanisms, grievance redressal, and the functioning of the Data Protection Board, all aimed at ensuring ease of living and ease of doing business. The Board will operate as a digital office, with a platform and app enabling citizens to file complaints digitally and have them adjudicated without requiring physical presence, the statement explained.
• From processing complaints to interacting with Data Fiduciaries, workflows are optimized to ensure speed and transparency, reflecting India’s forward-looking approach to governance and fostering trust between citizens and data handlers.
• Graded responsibilities outlined in the rules cater to startups and MSMEs with a lower compliance burden, while Significant Data Fiduciaries have higher obligations. Sector-specific data protection measures can complement the core personal data protection framework established by the Act and its rules.
• The Data Protection Board’s digital-first approach is expected to ensure quick and transparent resolution of complaints. While imposing penalties for defaults, the Board is required to consider factors such as the nature and gravity of violations and efforts made to mitigate their impact.
• Additionally, Data Fiduciaries may voluntarily offer undertakings during proceedings, which, if accepted by the Board, could lead to the proceedings being dropped. This mechanism balances the need to protect citizens’ rights with a fair adjudicatory process for entities handling personal data.
• The draft rules are based on extensive inputs from various stakeholders and a study of global best practices.
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has invited feedback and comments from the public and stakeholders until February 18 through the MyGov platform, in line with the government’s commitment to an inclusive approach to law-making.
• Meanwhile, the government is planning a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities under the new framework, fostering a culture of data responsibility.

Tamil Nadu has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

• Tamil Nadu has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), one in Chennai and the other in Salem, as per the state’s Department of Health and Family Welfare. The Additional Chief Secretary of the department stated on Monday that both affected individuals are in stable condition and under observation.
• In a press release issued by the Tamil Nadu government’s Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), it was clarified that Human Metapneumovirus is not a new virus. First identified in 2001, HMPV is a known respiratory virus that typically resolves with symptomatic care, including rest and hydration. The statement emphasized that infections caused by HMPV are self-limiting and generally manageable.
• “Presently, two cases of Human Metapneumovirus have been reported in Tamil Nadu—one in Chennai and one in Salem. Both patients are stable and are being closely monitored,” the release said.
• The Tamil Nadu government also said that there is no significant surge in respiratory viral pathogens in the state. On January 6, 2025, senior health officials from Tamil Nadu participated in a video conference chaired by the Union Health Secretary to discuss the situation. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare assured that the HMPV virus remains stable and does not pose a serious threat.
• The public was urged to follow basic preventive measures, similar to those for other respiratory infections, such as covering the mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing, frequent hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places, and seeking medical care if symptoms worsen.
• India has so far detected three additional HMPV cases outside Tamil Nadu. Two cases were reported in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and another in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as part of routine surveillance by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
• Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public on Monday, emphasizing that there is no cause for panic. “HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001. It spreads through the air and can affect individuals of all age groups, particularly during winter and early spring months,” he said in a video statement.
• Nadda further highlighted that the health systems and surveillance networks across India are vigilant and well-prepared to address any health challenges. “The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken cognizance of the situation and is expected to release its report soon. Additionally, a joint monitoring group, chaired by the Director General of Health Services, reviewed the situation on January 4. Current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program reveals no surge in respiratory viral pathogens in India,” he added.
• Despite these reassurances, the detection of HMPV cases has caused some jitters in the financial markets. On Monday, the Nifty 50 index dropped by over 388 points, while the BSE Sensex fell more than 1,258 points, reportedly influenced by global cues and concerns over health issues.
• Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus associated with illnesses such as cold-like symptoms, bronchitis, and pneumonia. However, health experts have reiterated that the virus poses no immediate threat, and the situation is under control. The Tamil Nadu government, along with central health authorities, remains committed to closely monitoring Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illnesses (SARI) across the country.

UJALA scheme: Over 36 crore LED bulbs distributed, saving India Rs. 19,153 crore annually

• More than 36 crore LED bulbs have been distributed across India over the past decade under the UJALA scheme, leading to annual savings of Rs 19,153 crore, the Ministry of Power said in a press release on Monday.
• Launched on January 5, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the UJALA scheme aims to provide affordable energy-efficient LED bulbs, tube lights, and fans to households using traditional lighting systems that consume more electricity and lead to high energy bills.
• According to the ministry, the scheme has reduced annual household electricity bills, resulting in substantial financial savings for consumers.
• Before the scheme, LED bulbs cost Rs 450-500 each. Under UJALA, consumers can now buy LED appliances at reduced prices: Rs 70 per LED bulb, Rs 220 per LED tube light, and Rs 1,110 per energy-efficient fan. These prices were achieved through competitive bidding, covering costs like manufacturing, distribution, awareness campaigns, annual maintenance, and administrative expenses.
• UJALA has also contributed to reducing India’s carbon footprint, with an annual reduction of 3,87,84, 592 crore tonnes of CO2 emissions and energy savings of 47,883 million kWh.

Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)

• Alongside UJALA, the Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) was launched to replace conventional streetlights with energy-efficient LED alternatives in both urban and rural areas.
• As of January 6, 2025, more than 1.34 crore LED streetlights have been installed under SLNP, leading to annual energy savings of over 9,001 million units (MUs) and reducing peak demand by over 1,500 MW. Additionally, the program has cut CO2 emissions by 6.2 million tonnes per year, highlighting its impact on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) has commenced a three-day roadshow in the UAE

• A The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) has commenced a three-day roadshow in the UAE, running from January 6 to 8, 2024.
• The initiative aims to strengthen industrial partnerships and explore successful infrastructure models to further India’s industrial development.
• The 12-member delegation, led by NICDC CEO and Managing Director Rajat Kumar Saini, includes representatives from various Indian states and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). A central focus of the roadshow is promoting investment opportunities in India’s Greenfield Industrial Smart Cities, part of the ambitious National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).
• The delegation will have high level meetings  with senior executives from prominent entities such as DP World, TECOM, and Meydan Free Zone, engaging in discussions on logistics, industrialization, and infrastructure.
• A key highlight of the visit will be an in-depth study of the operations at Jebel Ali Port, particularly its port-led industrialization model, automated systems, and multi-modal connectivity. The insights gained are expected to inform NICDC’s efforts in developing world-class industrial smart cities across India
• The NICDP has already achieved significant milestones, with approximately 370 plots across 1,477 acres allotted to investors, attracting commitments worth ₹1.70 lakh crore (US $20.48 billion).
• Infrastructure development in cities like Dholera (Gujarat) and Shendra-Bidkin (Maharashtra) has made notable progress, with 82 units, including major international companies like Hyosung and Haier, now operational.
• The program also includes 12 newly approved industrial cities across India, spanning locations from Khurpia in Uttarakhand to Palakkad in Kerala.
• These cities are designed to incorporate cutting-edge amenities, including uninterrupted power supply, advanced water treatment systems, and a “Walk to Work” concept, underscoring India’s bid to establish itself as a global manufacturing hub.
• This UAE roadshow underscores India’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and attracting foreign investment to drive its industrial growth and modernization.

Great Nicobar project: Shipping Ministry proposes cruise terminal, high-end tourism infra , Shipping Ministry also seeks 100 acres of land with seafront for ship building, repair facilities, exim port.

• An international cruise terminal to facilitate a “global” port-led city, “high-end” tourism infrastructure, and a ship-breaking yard are among the new additions to the ₹72,000 crore mega-infrastructure project in Great Nicobar Island proposed by the Union Shipping Ministry, according to letters accessed by this writer.
• However, the government has also been denying right to information (RTI) requests about environment clearances for this mega project, which includes a military-civil airport, on the grounds that it would affect India’s security and strategic concerns. It is not clear how the Shipping Ministry’s new proposals will be compatible with such concerns.
• These In 2025, the Union Shipping Ministry proposed infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island. This project aims to establish a global port-led city and enhance high-end tourism facilities. The project has a budget of ₹72,000 crore and includes various components such as an international cruise terminal, a ship-breaking yard, and a military-civil airport. However, the government has denied numerous Right to Information (RTI) requests regarding environmental clearances, citing national security and strategic concerns.
• The Great Nicobar project encompasses multiple developments. These include an international container transshipment port at Galathea Bay, a new airport, and a power plant. A large greenfield township and tourism project will cover 130 square kilometres of pristine tropical forest. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Ltd (ANIIDCO) is responsible for implementing the project.
• In April 2024, the Shipping Ministry requested an additional 100 acres of land for ship repair and shipbuilding facilities in Campbell Bay. This area is the administrative headquarters of Great Nicobar Island. The Ministry also proposed declaring Campbell Bay an export-import port to facilitate the import of construction materials for the transshipment terminal.
• Environmentalists have raised alarms about the impact of the project on local ecosystems. The coastline is classified under a Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ 1a), which protects coral reefs. The ANIIDCO has expressed concerns that ship repair activities may conflict with tourism development plans. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the environmental clearances granted for the project.
• The government has consistently denied RTI requests for information regarding the project, citing national security. The Ministry of Home Affairs has classified the airport as a dual-use facility under the operational control of the Indian Navy. Critics argue that the refusal to disclose information lacks justification, especially concerning non-military aspects of the project.
• The Shipping Ministry’s recent proposals appear contradictory to the stated security concerns. The push for a cruise terminal and increased tourism may undermine the strategic objectives cited for limiting information disclosure. Activists warn that these developments will open Great Nicobar Island to foreign influence, challenging decades of isolation policies.
• Responses from the Andaman and Nicobar administration indicate hesitance to fully commit to the Shipping Ministry’s proposals. They have suggested that the Ministry engage a specialised consultant to explore the feasibility of the cruise terminal and discuss the export-import port with relevant authorities.
• Local and national conservation groups have voiced opposition to the project. They argue that the environmental risks outweigh potential economic benefits. The situation remains contentious, with ongoing scrutiny from environmental activists and legal challenges.

Amendments to Foreign Trade Policy 2023.

• The The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced amendments to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. These changes aim to strengthen stakeholder engagement in the formulation and amendment of trade policies. The amendments are designed to ensure that the voices of importers, exporters, and industry experts are heard in the decision-making process.
• The recent amendments introduce Para 1.07A and 1.07B into the FTP. These paragraphs mandate consultations with stakeholders prior to policy changes. The government now has a legal obligation to seek feedback from relevant parties.
• This is important step towards transparency and inclusiveness in trade policy formulation.
• The amendments reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in India. By involving stakeholders in discussions, the government aims to create a more responsive and adaptive trade environment.
• This initiative encourages diverse opinions and insights, which can lead to more effective policies.A notable aspect of the amendments is the establishment of a structured feedback mechanism. Stakeholders can now submit their views, suggestions, and comments regarding the FTP.
• Importantly, the government is required to provide reasons if it chooses not to accept certain feedback. This mechanism promotes accountability and ensures that stakeholder contributions are taken seriously.
• While stakeholder engagement is encouraged, the government acknowledges that differing opinions may arise. In cases where conflicting views exist, the government retains the right to make final decisions.
• This balance is crucial for maintaining efficient business operations while still valuing stakeholder input.
• The amendments also clarify the government’s authority to act independently in exceptional circumstances. The right to suo moto formulate policies allows the government to respond swiftly to urgent needs or unforeseen challenges. This provision is essential for ensuring that trade policies remain effective and relevant.
• These amendments signify a shift towards a more inclusive approach in trade policy. By opening channels for stakeholder feedback, the government aims to encourage a collaborative environment. This can lead to more informed and effective trade policies that benefit all parties involved.
• The notification is seen as a gateway to a new era of inclusiveness in trade decision-making. As the government begins to implement these changes, the impact of stakeholder engagement on the FTP will become clearer. This initiative is expected to enhance the overall trade ecosystem in India.

Territorial Army launches task force for Gomti river rejuvenation

• The Territorial Army on Wednesday established a new task force dedicated to the rejuvenation and protection of the Gomti River.
• According to a statement by the Territorial Army, the company, named Ganga Task Force (GTF) battalion, will provide a boost towards environmental preservation and sustainable development.
• Comprising primarily ex-servicemen, the Ganga Task Force will take on responsibilities such as pollution monitoring, patrolling of riverbanks and ghats, public awareness campaigns, and riverbank stabilisation efforts.
• Gomti river originates from Gomat Taal, otherwise called Fulhaar Jheel, located near Madho Tanda in Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh.
• The river drains the area between the Ramganga and Sharda rivers.
• After flowing south through the districts of Lucknow, Barabhanki, Sultanpur, Faizabad and Jaunpur, it joins the Ganga River.
• The river stretches for about 900 km. It drains a watershed of about 7,240 square miles (18,750 sq km).
• It is a perennial river. The river is characterized by a slow flow throughout the year, except during the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall causes a multifold increase in runoff.
• Important tributaries of the Gomti include the Sai River, the Chowka River, the Kathina River and the Saryu River
• GTF aims to improve environmental protection and sustainable development. Key responsibilities include pollution monitoring, patrolling of riverbanks and ghats, public awareness campaigns and bank stabilization
• Composition: The GTF is primarily made up of ex-servicemen reflecting the Territorial Army''s tradition of using experienced personnel for national missions.
• The formal promotion ceremony took place on 1 January 2025 at Lucknow Cantonment.
• Organization of the National Mission:
• The GTF was established under the National Mission for Clean Ganga which is an initiative of the Jal Shakti Ministry.
• Orders for its creation were issued by the Ministry of Defense in September 2024.
• This initiative reinforces the Indian Army''s role in nation-building and environmental sustainability.  GTF aims to make a significant contribution to the revitalization of the Gomti River and the wider Clean Ganga mission.