India Declines to Sign SCO Statement Due to Terrorism Omission

India declined to approve the joint communiqué at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting held in Qingdao, China, citing the exclusion of terrorism-related concerns. The statement notably omitted reference to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, India, while mentioning the Jaffar Express hijacking in Balochistan.

As the declaration required unanimous consent, India''s objection prevented its adoption. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India had pushed for the inclusion of strong language on terrorism, but Pakistan’s opposition led to its removal, prompting India to withhold support.

About the SCO

The SCO is a regional alliance of 10 countries—India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus—making it the largest regional group globally in terms of area and population.

Historical Background

The SCO emerged from the “Shanghai Five” established in 1996 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan to manage regional security issues in the post-Soviet landscape. It officially became the SCO on June 15, 2001.

Security-Centric Focus

Unlike many international bodies, the SCO prioritizes security cooperation, particularly addressing terrorism, separatism, and extremism. Its Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) serves as a hub for intelligence sharing and coordination among members.

India Calls Out Double Standards

India emphasized that peace is incompatible with terrorism and the spread of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). It urged:

• Concrete global action against nations supporting terrorism
• Accountability for cross-border terrorism facilitators
• An end to SCO’s silence on state-sponsored terrorism

China-Pakistan Alignment

With Russia distracted by the Ukraine conflict, China has assumed a more prominent leadership role within the SCO. Its close strategic ties with Pakistan, particularly after India''s Operation Sindoor, have included military and diplomatic backing. China has routinely protected Pakistan from international scrutiny over terrorism-related issues.

India''s Firm Anti-Terror Stance

India reaffirmed its unwavering position against terrorism. The Defence Minister’s refusal to sign the SCO statement reflects New Delhi’s long-standing belief that terrorism and diplomatic normalization cannot occur simultaneously.

India’s Coastline Increases by 3,500 km After Improved Mapping

India’s coastline has grown by nearly 50%, not because of any territorial expansion, but due to more accurate and detailed mapping techniques. A recent reassessment using high-resolution data also led to a small increase in the number of identified offshore islands. These updates, while not altering any physical boundaries, carry significant administrative and strategic value.

Revised Coastline: Now 11,098 km

India''s coastline, previously measured at 7,516 km, now stands at 11,098 km—an increase of 3,582 km (about 48%).

Better Tools, More Accurate Results

The earlier measurement relied on low-resolution mapping (1:4,500,000 scale), which smoothed out natural curves and omitted finer features. The new figure comes from high-resolution data (1:250,000 scale), capturing intricate bends and shoreline variations with the help of advanced GIS tools. This technological upgrade replaced older manual techniques.

Coastline Paradox Explained

This phenomenon—where greater detail leads to longer measured lengths—is a classic example of the "coastline paradox," where the more closely you measure a natural boundary, the longer it appears. The same principle applies to other geographic features like mountain edges and riverbanks.

More Islands Counted

In addition to the extended coastline, the revised data includes many previously unrecorded offshore islands that were either too small to detect or overlooked due to older surveying limitations.

Updated Island Totals

After reconciling differences among agencies and standardising definitions, the official island count is now:

• 1,298 offshore islands
• 91 inshore islands
  Total: 1,389 islands
  This count excludes river islands, such as those in Assam and West Bengal.

Why It Matters

While the land itself hasn''t changed, the refined data enhances national planning, coastal zone management, and maritime security. India now plans to reassess its coastline every 10 years, in line with international best practices, to keep pace with both technological advancements and natural changes like erosion or reclamation.

India Rejects Arbitration Court’s Ruling on Indus Waters Treaty Dispute

India has dismissed a recent ruling by a Hague-based Court of Arbitration concerning the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir. The court had issued a “supplemental award” asserting its jurisdiction—an assertion India firmly rejects, calling the tribunal “illegally constituted” and devoid of legal standing.

Dispute Resolution Framework Under the Indus Waters Treaty

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with the World Bank as guarantor, provides a structured process to resolve disagreements:

• Permanent Indus Commission (PIC):
  The first tier of resolution, consisting of commissioners from both nations. It handles technical discussions and facilitates field visits and annual meetings.
• Neutral Expert Mechanism:
  For unresolved technical issues, either country may request a Neutral Expert via the World Bank. The expert addresses factual matters only, and their decision is binding.
• Court of Arbitration (CoA):
  For legal disputes, a CoA can be established—but only with mutual consent. The treaty’s structure does not permit simultaneous or unilateral initiation of both mechanisms.

India’s Objection to the Arbitration Process

India has consistently supported the Neutral Expert route, while Pakistan has sought arbitration over the design of India''s hydropower projects. India argues that running both mechanisms in parallel undermines the treaty’s integrity.

In 2022, the World Bank controversially appointed both a Neutral Expert (requested by India) and a Court of Arbitration (requested by Pakistan), violating the IWT’s one-track dispute resolution mechanism, according to India. While India has participated in the Neutral Expert proceedings, it has refused to recognise or engage with the arbitration tribunal.

India''s Legal Position

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated that:

• The Court of Arbitration lacks jurisdiction and was constituted in violation of the treaty.
• Any rulings or awards from the tribunal are “null and void.”
• India never gave its consent to the arbitration process and thus does not recognise its authority.

India also defended its recent decision to place parts of the treaty in abeyance following the April 2024 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. The MEA clarified that this suspension is a sovereign measure under international law and not subject to arbitration, especially by a tribunal formed without mutual agreement.

Background of the Kishenganga and Ratle Projects

The dispute centers on the design parameters of two key hydroelectric projects:

• Kishenganga Project on a Jhelum tributary
• Ratle Project on the Chenab River

Pakistan first approached the World Bank in 2015 seeking a Neutral Expert, but shifted to request arbitration in 2016. India continued to push for the original technical resolution path outlined in the treaty.

A Broader Strategic Shift

This legal standoff marks a turning point as India reassesses the IWT amid shifting regional dynamics. On the 65th anniversary of the treaty, India issued notices to Pakistan in January 2023 and again in September 2024, demanding a review and potential amendment of the agreement in light of:

• Changing geopolitical realities
• Evolving hydrological conditions
• Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism

India’s suspension of treaty obligations is part of this broader recalibration and, according to New Delhi, remains valid under international law until Pakistan takes verifiable steps to end support for terror activities.

India’s New Strategic Challenge: The China-Led Trilateral Nexus

Context:
China recently hosted a China-Pakistan-Bangladesh trilateral dialogue in Kunming, following a similar meet involving China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. These forums reflect Beijing''s growing push to solidify influence across South Asia and counterbalance India’s regional presence.

What Is the Trilateral Nexus?

Beijing is orchestrating new trilateral groupings—China-Pakistan-Bangladesh and China-Pakistan-Afghanistan—to shape South Asia’s geopolitical architecture in its favor.

• China sets the agenda.
• Pakistan gains geopolitical relevance and Chinese backing.
• Bangladesh and Afghanistan are lured with economic, political, and infrastructure incentives.

Mutual Interests Driving the Nexus

• China:
  Aims to dilute India’s influence, expand the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and leverage Pakistan to disrupt India''s regional strategy.
• Pakistan:
  Uses China’s support to offset diplomatic isolation and confront India diplomatically, militarily, and economically.
• Bangladesh & Afghanistan:
  Seek Chinese investments, security assurances, and multipolar alignment as hedging strategies in a contested region.

Historical Roots of the Nexus

• Post-1962 War Strategy:
  China has long positioned Pakistan as a counterweight to India.
• Siliguri Corridor Tactics (1965):
  Earlier efforts to isolate India via Nepal, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), and China mirror today’s emerging alignment.
• UNSC Shielding:
  China has repeatedly blocked global efforts to sanction Pakistan-based terrorist groups, deepening their strategic trust.
• Operation Sindoor (2025):
  Pakistan deployed Chinese drones and tech during hostilities with India; China condemned India’s response—proof of deepening coordination.

Implications

For India:

1. Rising Security Threats:
   China-Pakistan convergence legitimizes cross-border attacks (e.g., 2025 Pahalgam attack).
2. Diplomatic Setbacks:
   China’s growing role in Dhaka and Kabul complicates India’s traditional influence.
3. Strategic Encirclement:
   BRI’s deepening presence threatens India-led initiatives like BBIN and the Chabahar Corridor.

For South Asia:

1. Heightened Polarization:
   Smaller nations may be forced to choose between China and India, risking regional disunity.
2. Revived Proxy Warfare:
   Chinese cover may embolden Pakistan to escalate terrorism and destabilize regional peace.
3. Weakening Regional Institutions:
   China’s influence undermines SAARC-like platforms, making them externally driven and ineffective.

India’s Strategic Response

1. Assert Redlines:
   Clearly warn neighbors that anti-India alignments will have political, economic, and security consequences.
2. Strengthen Regional Coalitions:
   Expand proactive engagement via BIMSTEC, IORA, and IPRU to bypass China’s influence.
3. Deploy Economic Diplomacy:
   Offer tailored investments, trade benefits, and infrastructure support to counterbalance China’s economic pull.
4. Enhance Defence Ties:
   Deepen military partnerships with Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Maldives as viable alternatives to Chinese aid.
5. Shape the Regional Narrative:
   Promote India as a non-hegemonic, trustworthy, and inclusive regional partner to counter Chinese narratives.

India’s Skills for the Future Report: A Strategic Workforce Blueprint

Context:

The “Skills for the Future” report underscores the urgency of preparing India’s vast young population for a rapidly evolving economic and technological landscape. As India approaches 2047, harnessing its demographic dividend through focused skill development is critical to sustaining growth and competitiveness.

Why Skilling Matters:

• Demographic Dividend:
  India has one of the youngest populations globally. Effective skilling is essential to transform this youth bulge into productive capital before ageing begins to set in.
• Economic Growth Link:
  A 1% increase in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education can boost GDP by 0.511%. (Parika, 2020)
• Job Creation Needs:
  To absorb new entrants, India needs to create 500,000 non-farm jobs annually till 2030, which requires a skilled and job-ready workforce.
• Global Competitiveness:
  India’s leadership in EVs, AI, biotech, and green tech depends on its ability to train a workforce for Industry 4.0 and sustainable sectors.

Key Insights from the Report:

1. Skill Level Distribution (PLFS 2023–24):

• 88% of workers are in low-skill roles (Skill Levels 1 & 2).
• Only 10–12% work in high-skill jobs (Skill Levels 3 & 4).
• Just 9.76% of people have post-secondary education; over 50% only have primary schooling.

2. Mismatch Between Skills and Jobs:

• Only 8.25% of graduates are employed in roles matching their qualifications.
• Over half of graduates work in jobs below their education level.
• Overqualification is more widespread than underqualification.

3. Low TVET Penetration:

• Just 4.5% of the workforce has formal vocational training.
• Most TVET programs prepare for low-skill roles, with little relevance to emerging industry demands.

4. Wage Inequality by Skill Level:

• Skill Level 1: ₹98,835 avg. annual wage
• Skill Level 2: ₹1.26 lakh
• Skill Level 3: ₹2.81 lakh
• Skill Level 4: ₹3.94 lakh
• 46% of workers earn under ₹1 lakh/year.

5. Sectoral Focus in Skilling:

• 66% of vocational enrolment is concentrated in 5 sectors:
• Electronics
• IT/ITeS
• Textiles & Apparel
• Healthcare & Life Sciences
• Beauty & Wellness

6. Regional Disparities:

• States like Bihar and Assam: Over 95% of workforce in low-skill roles.
• In contrast, Kerala and Chandigarh show stronger representation in Skill Levels 3 & 4.
• High migration rates out of low-skill states create pressure on urban centres and contribute to rural decline.

7. Education Transition Bottlenecks:

• GER at higher secondary: 57.56% (2021–22)
• GER in higher education: Below 30%
• These low rates reduce the flow of workers into higher-skill roles.

8. Workforce Readiness in Key Sectors:

• Less than 5% of the workforce in many states is at Skill Level 3.
• India faces shortages in skilled professionals in IT, healthcare, EVs, and biotech.

Key Challenges Identified:

• Skill-Education Mismatch:
  Many graduates work in roles below their qualifications, while many in high-skill jobs are informally trained and underqualified.
• Outdated TVET Programs:
  Most vocational education isn’t aligned with Industry 4.0 or green economy needs.
• Income Disparity & Informal Work:
  Nearly half the workforce earns less than ₹1 lakh/year, with limited security or mobility.
• Regional Imbalances & Migration:
  Skilling gaps in underdeveloped states drive rural-to-urban migration and exacerbate economic inequality.
• Lack of Data & Inclusion:
  Real-time data, especially on outcomes and access for women, SC/STs, and rural youth, is limited.

Recommendations for Reform:

1. Institutional Strengthening

• Launch a Skill Gap Survey and create a Central Skill Data Repository to guide evidence-based policymaking.

2. Curriculum Modernisation

• Update National Classification of Occupations (NCO) codes.
• Align training with sectors like AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital tech.

3. Revamp Vocational Education (TVET)

• Integrate vocational courses in school curricula.
• Expand apprenticeships under NAPS.
• Make industry hiring conditional on PMKVY certifications.

4. Boost Higher Education Access

• Raise GER in higher secondary and tertiary levels.
• Promote flexible and remote skilling models for working adults.

5. Inclusive & Targeted Approach

• Empower state-level Skill Missions.
• Prioritise training for women, SC/ST communities, and underserved rural populations.
• Focus investment and policy support on high-growth sectors like logistics, healthcare, and green energy.

Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors (2011–12 to 2023–24)

1. Overall Agricultural Growth

• Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture and allied sectors grew 225% at current prices, rising from ₹1,502 thousand crore in 2011–12 to ₹4,878 thousand crore in 2023–24.
• At constant prices, the Gross Value of Output (GVO) increased by 54.6%, from ₹1,908 thousand crore to ₹2,949 thousand crore, reflecting real growth adjusted for inflation.

2. Crop Sector Dominance

• The crop sector continues to be the largest contributor, accounting for ₹1,595 thousand crore (54.1%) of total agricultural GVO in 2023–24.
• Cereals and fruits & vegetables combined contributed 52.5% to the total crop output value.

3. Cereal Production & Leading States

• Paddy and wheat make up approximately 85% of the total cereal GVO.
• The top five states—Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana, and Haryana—together contributed 53% of cereal output.
• Uttar Pradesh, while still the top contributor, saw its share decline from 18.6% to 17.2% over the period.

4. Fruits, Vegetables & Floriculture Trends

• Banana surpassed mango as the top fruit by GVO:
• Banana: ₹47,000 crore
• Mango: ₹46,100 crore
• Potato consistently led among vegetables, with its GVO rising from ₹21,300 crore to ₹37,200 crore.
• Floriculture nearly doubled in value—from ₹17,400 crore to ₹28,100 crore.
• Notable state-wise changes indicate a shift and regional diversification in fruit, vegetable, and flower production.

5. Condiments and Spices

• Madhya Pradesh led in spice production with a 19.2% share.
• Karnataka (16.6%) and Gujarat (15.5%) followed as major contributors.

6. Livestock Sector Expansion

• The livestock sector''s GVO nearly doubled from ₹488,000 crore in 2011–12 to ₹919,000 crore in 2023–24.
• Milk remained the largest component, though its share declined slightly from 67.2% to 65.9%.
• Meat production rose significantly, with its share growing from 19.7% to 24.1%.

7. Forestry Sector Trends

• Forestry GVO increased from ₹149,000 crore to ₹227,000 crore over the period.
• Industrial wood gained prominence, increasing its share from 49.9% to 70.2%, indicating a shift toward commercial forestry.

8. Fisheries Growth and Distribution

• The fisheries sector''s share in total agricultural GVO rose from 4.2% to 7.0%.
• Marine fisheries saw a slight gain, reaching 49.8%, while inland fisheries slightly declined to 50.2%.
• Major shifts in state contributions were noted, especially in West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh.

Key Takeaways

• India’s agricultural output has grown significantly in both value and diversity.
• Livestock, fisheries, and forestry are becoming more prominent within the agri-allied sectors.
• Regional shifts in output patterns show diversification beyond traditional strongholds.
• The crop sector remains dominant but shows changing trends, especially in fruit and vegetable dynamics.
• Commercial focus is rising in forestry and fisheries, indicating sectoral transformation aligned with market trends.

India’s External Debt Rises to US$ 736.3 Billion (March 2025)

Source: RBI Annual Report

Overview:

India’s external debt increased by US$ 67.5 billion over the previous year (excluding valuation effects), reaching a total of US$ 736.3 billion as of March 2025.
This growth was partly influenced by changes in exchange rates, particularly the appreciation of the US dollar against the Indian rupee (valuation effect).

Key Highlights:

• Debt-to-GDP Ratio:
• Rose to 19.1%, up from 18.5% in March 2024 — indicating a higher reliance on external borrowing relative to GDP.
• Debt Composition (by Tenure):
• Long-term debt: Slightly increased to US$ 601.9 billion
• Short-term debt: Share declined marginally to 18.3% of total external debt
• Currency Composition:
• US Dollar: 54.2% (dominant share)
• Indian Rupee: 31.1%
• Followed by Japanese Yen and Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
• Major Borrowers:
• Non-financial corporations (excluding RBI): 35.5%
• Deposit-taking corporations (e.g., commercial banks): 27.5%
• General government (Centre & States): 22.9%
• By Instrument Type:
• Loans: Largest share at 34%
• Followed by currency and deposits, indicating heavy use of conventional borrowing instruments.
• Debt Servicing Costs:
• Slight decrease of 0.1%, indicating stable or slightly improved repayment conditions.

What is External Debt?

• Definition: Money borrowed by India from external sources, including foreign banks, multilateral financial institutions (like the IMF and World Bank), and foreign governments.
• Purpose: Typically used to fund deficits, development projects, and infrastructure.

Implications:

• The rise in external debt reflects growing financial needs but also calls for close monitoring of repayment capacity, currency risks, and global interest rate trends.
• The shift toward more long-term debt suggests better debt maturity management, reducing short-term pressure.

India’s Start-Up Ecosystem Witnesses Exponential Growth: Meta Report (2025)

Overview:

India’s start-up landscape has expanded significantly over the past decade, driven by early-stage funding, AI integration, widespread digital access, and increasing consumer engagement in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

What Qualifies as a Start-Up?

As per the Companies Act, 2013:

• A private limited company, partnership firm, or LLP
• Annual turnover below ₹100 crore
• Eligible to be classified as a startup for up to 10 years from the date of incorporation

Key Growth Drivers:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration

• 70% of Indian startups are leveraging AI in their operations
• In marketing, 87% of AI adopters reported improvements in cost-per-acquisition (CPA)

2. International Market Expansion

• 50% of startups are targeting global customers
• Top export destinations include the USA, UAE, and the UK

3. Omnichannel Presence

• Over two-thirds of startups follow a hybrid online-offline model
• Digital platforms (ads, Reels) are used for discovery, while high-value purchases often happen in physical stores

4. Penetration into Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities

• Most startups are now expanding into smaller cities
• Service-oriented startups often enter early using WhatsApp and regional influencer networks

India’s Thriving Start-Up Landscape:

• Over 150,000 DPIIT-recognized startups as of 2024
• 51% of these startups are located in non-metro areas
• Combined valuation of Indian unicorns exceeds $380 billion
• India ranks third globally on the Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2025

GLP-1 Drugs: A New Era in Obesity and Diabetes Treatment

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a gut hormone (incretin) released post-meal. It:

• Regulates blood glucose, fat metabolism, and appetite
• Stimulates insulin when glucose is high
• Suppresses glucagon (lowers liver glucose production)
• Slows gastric emptying (delays digestion)
• Induces satiety, reducing food intake

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists:

These are lab-made compounds that mimic GLP-1 by binding to its receptors and triggering the same effects.

Leading examples:

• Semaglutide (Novo Nordisk)
• Tirzepatide (Eli Lilly) — also mimics GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) for enhanced dual action

India Launch (2025):

Both drugs were recently introduced in India, marking a shift in clinical approaches to obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Historical Context:

• Incretins were first mentioned in 1906.
• GLP-1 was identified in 1986, but early versions were unstable.
• Therapeutic development accelerated post-1990s with stable formulations

Statistics Day 2025

About Statistics Day:

Observed annually on June 29, commemorating Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis’s birth anniversary. The day aims to raise awareness about the significance of statistics in development, policy, and planning.

Theme for 2025:

“75 Years of National Sample Survey”

• Celebrates the role of the NSS in providing critical socio-economic data since 1950.
• Recognises its contribution to evidence-based governance.

Organised by:

Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)

About Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis:

• Born: 29 June 1893
• Regarded as the Father of Indian Statistics
• Introduced the Mahalanobis Distance, vital in multivariate analysis
• Founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931
• Established the National Sample Survey (NSS) in 1950
• Played a central role in formulating India’s Five-Year Plans
• Honoured with the Padma Vibhushan

Additional Information:

• National Statistics Day was first observed in 2007
• World Statistics Day is celebrated every five years on October 20, as declared by the United Nations

DNA Polymorphism & Fingerprinting

The last DNA match day took place after families held a symbolic funeral for victims of the Air India Flight AI 171 crash (June 12, 2025), where 241 people tragically lost their lives, highlighting DNA fingerprinting’s role in victim identification.

What is DNA?

• DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the hereditary material found in almost all human cells (blood, skin, bone, teeth, etc.).
• Humans have 46 chromosomes:
• 23 from the father (via sperm)
• 23 from the mother (via egg)
• Genes on chromosomes determine physical traits and biological identity.

DNA Polymorphisms

• Variations in DNA sequences that are unique to each individual.
• Used for:
• Parentage identification
• Genetic lineage tracing
• Forensic identity verification
• Allow accurate matching between biological samples and relatives.

Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)

• STRs are short, repeating sequences of DNA bases (e.g., GATCGATC).
• Each person has a unique STR pattern.
• Applications:
• Criminal investigations
• Victim identification in forensics
• Ancestry and paternity testing
• STRs are inherited, making them strong evidence for genetic relationships.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

• Technique to amplify tiny amounts of DNA for detailed analysis.
• Steps:
1. DNA Extraction from sample (bone, blood, tissue)
2. Denaturation (95°C): DNA strands separate
3. Annealing (60°C): Primers attach to target sequences
4. Extension (72°C): DNA polymerase synthesizes new strands
5. Cycling: Repeat to generate millions of copies

DNA Fingerprinting

• Creates a unique genetic profile based on STR variations.
• Uses Capillary Electrophoresis to separate DNA fragments by size using electric current.
• Final output is a distinct DNA profile unique to every individual except identical twins.
• Possible DNA sources: blood, saliva, bone, teeth, skin, sweat, semen.
• Developed by Sir Alec Jeffreys in 1984.

Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt

• Location: Eastern shore of Hudson Bay, Quebec, Canada, on Inuit tribal land in Inukjuak, Nunavik.
• Significance: Rocks dated to approximately 4.16 billion years old, possibly the oldest on Earth, challenging previous records like the Acasta Gneiss Complex (~4 billion years).
• Dating Method: Two independent radioactive dating techniques confirmed the age.
• Conservation Concerns: Past environmental damage and illegal selling of rock samples led the Inuit community, led by Pituvik Landholding Corporation, to restrict further sampling.
• Future Plans: Inuit community proposes collaboration with scientists to establish a provincial park to balance research and preservation.
• Ultramafic Rocks: These ancient rocks are ultramafic — rich in magnesium oxide (MgO) and iron oxide (FeO), low in silica, and dominant in Earth’s mantle.

Mahua: The Lifeline of Central India’s Tribal Communities

• Botanical Identity: Mahua tree (Madhuca longifolia), a medium-sized deciduous tree (16–20 m tall), found mainly in Central India’s forests.
• Blooming Cycle: Creamy-white flowers bloom March-April; fruits ripen June-August.
• Cultural & Religious Importance: Considered sacred by tribal groups, called “Tree of Life.” Used extensively in rituals, including funerals.
• Geographical Spread: Found in states like West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
• Economic & Nutritional Role: Flowers are nutritious, eaten raw or dried, and fermented into alcoholic drinks, a vital livelihood source, especially for tribal women.
• Ecological Role: Night-blooming, bat-pollinated flowers support forest ecosystems; sloth bears and other animals feed on flowers, leading to competition with humans.
• Innovation: TRIFED and FIIT developed a Mahua Nutra Beverage in Jharkhand as a value-added product to boost tribal incomes, marking a pioneering step in Minor Forest Produce (MFP) innovation in India.

Jellyfish

• Basic Info:
  Jellyfish are ancient, resilient gelatinous zooplankton belonging to the phylum Cnidaria (which also includes sea anemones, corals, etc.).
• Anatomy & Characteristics:
• Simple invertebrates with radial symmetry (body parts radiate from a central axis).
• Lack brains, blood, or hearts.
• Body made of three layers:
1. Epidermis (outer layer)
2. Mesoglea (thick, jelly-like middle layer)
3. Gastrodermis (inner layer)
• Equipped with stinging tentacles used for defense and capturing prey.
• Use jet propulsion to move efficiently.
• Ecological Role:
• Serve as both predators and prey in marine food webs.
• Jellyfish populations can rapidly increase in “blooms” due to environmental and human stressors.
• Blooms disrupt ecosystems by reducing biodiversity, outcompeting native species, and causing fish and invertebrate population collapses.
• Economic & Operational Impact:
• Clog fishing nets and damage aquaculture equipment.
• Block power plant cooling intakes.
• Negatively affect tourism.

Silica Gel Desiccant

• Basic Info:
  Silica gel desiccants are moisture-adsorbing agents used widely to control humidity and protect sensitive goods.
• Composition:
• Made of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), similar to sand or quartz.
• Hydrophilic (water-attracting).
• Some variants include moisture-sensitive dyes like cobalt chloride for indication.
• Working Mechanism:
• Nano-scale porous beads with pores ~15 times the atomic radius, enabling capillary condensation of moisture.
• Extremely high surface area (~700 m² per gram), acting like a sponge for water molecules.
• Applications:
• Protect electronics, pharmaceuticals, food, and precision instruments by preventing moisture damage.
• Used in drying industrial gases and dehydration processes.
• Control moisture in automotive parts manufacturing and storage, preventing rust and corrosion.
• Applied in automotive and HVAC air conditioning systems to maintain optimal humidity by absorbing excess moisture.
• Safety:
• Most silica gel beads are non-toxic and safer than silica dust.

Sugamya Bharat App

• Launched by:
  Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in 2021.
• Purpose:
  A digital initiative to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) and senior citizens across India.
• Recent Update:
  The app has been revamped for better user experience and impact.
• Key Features:
• Allows users to upload geo-tagged photos of public places with accessibility barriers.
• Enables authorities to take corrective action.
• Covers issues in infrastructure, transport, and ICT systems.
• Integrated access to government schemes and resources.
• Available in 10 Indian languages.

Kharai Camel

• Location:
  Indigenous to the Kachchh region of Gujarat.
• Name Meaning:
  "Kharai" comes from “Khara” meaning saline, reflecting their adaptability to coastal and desert environments.
• Unique Traits:
• Can swim long distances (over 3 km) in the sea to reach mangrove grazing areas.
• Survive in saline marshes and drylands.
• Integral to the culture of Rabari and Fakirani Jat tribes for over 400 years.
• Ecological Role:
• Help preserve mangrove ecosystems by grazing and seed dispersal.
• Milk Benefits:
• Nutrient-rich with immune-boosting antibodies.
• Easier to digest, with therapeutic value, especially for children and the elderly.
• Conservation Concerns:
• Threatened by illegal salt pans and encroachment into mangrove creeks.
• Conservation Status: IUCN – Endangered

Litchi Export from India

Context:

• India flagged off its first export consignment of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab to Doha, Qatar, facilitated by APEDA.

About Litchi:

• Family: Sapindaceae
• Use: Consumed fresh, canned, or dried; used in squash, pickles, wine, and dried litchi-nut.
• Nutritional Value: Rich in Vitamin C, B1, riboflavin, calcium, and phosphorus.
• Origin: Native to South China, reached India via Myanmar in the 18th century.

Agro-Climatic Conditions:

• Temperature: 21–35°C
• Rainfall: 1500–2000 mm annually
• Soil: Deep, well-drained loamy soil (pH 5.5 to 7)

Top Producing States:

• Bihar – Largest producer, known for Shahi and China varieties
• West Bengal – Highest productivity
• Others: Punjab, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand

Economic & Export Relevance:

• Part of ODOP (One District One Product) strategy
• Punjab''s Contribution: ~71,490 MT (~12.4% of national output)
• Export supported by reefer pallets (cold chain logistics) for freshness
• Growing demand in Gulf and Southeast Asian markets

Kolhapuri Chappal vs Prada Controversy

Context:

• Indian artisans protested Prada’s 2026 luxury collection, claiming it mimics the design of Kolhapuri chappals without proper attribution.

About Kolhapuri Chappals:

• Type: Traditional handcrafted leather sandals
• Design: Open-toe, T-strap, made from vegetable-tanned buffalo hide
• Eco-friendly, breathable, and nail-free

Origin:

• Mainly from Kolhapur (Maharashtra) and parts of Karnataka like Belgaum, Bagalkot, and Dharwad

GI Tag:

• Granted in 2019 to artisans from Maharashtra & Karnataka
• Protects the name "Kolhapuri" but not the structure/design

Cultural Importance:

• Dates back to the 13th century
• Symbol of rural craftsmanship and sustainable fashion

Legal Issue:

• GI laws don’t apply since Prada didn’t use the name "Kolhapuri"
• Community-based crafts face challenges in IP protection:
• Lack of individual ownership
• Difficulty in establishing novelty, documentation, or defined authorship

Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog)

Context:

• Reappearance confirmed in the Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL) by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
• The species was previously considered locally extinct in this region.

About Dhole (Cuon alpinus):

• IUCN Status: Endangered
• Habitat: Dense forests, scrublands, mountainous terrains
• Distribution in India: Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Central India, and Northeast
• Key Features:
• Rusty-red coat with black-tipped tail
• Lives and hunts in matriarchal packs
• Plays a vital role in regulating prey populations and maintaining ecosystem balance

Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL):

• Location: Assam (extending to Meghalaya and Nagaland), south of the Brahmaputra River
• Area: Around 25,000 square kilometres
• Protected Areas Included: Kaziranga National Park, Karbi Anglong, Pakke, Nameri, Laokhowa–Burhachapori, Nambor, Ntanki
• Ecosystem: Tropical semi-evergreen forests, grasslands, and marshlands
• Biodiversity:
• Hosts species like one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, sloth bear
• Over 500 bird species
• Ecological Importance:
• Functions as a critical wildlife corridor
• One of the last large continuous forest areas in Northeast India
• Supports long-term survival of endangered and migratory species

SPREE Scheme (Scheme to Promote Registration of Employers/Employees)

Context:

• Re-launched in 2025 by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) during its 196th meeting.

Overview:

• Initial Launch in 2016:
• Facilitated registration of over 88,000 employers and 1.02 crore employees under the ESI Act
• 2025 Relaunch:
• Offers a one-time registration window for previously unregistered employers and workers
• Encourages voluntary compliance rather than penal actions

Other Key Approvals by ESIC in 2025:

• Amnesty Scheme (2025–26):
• Aims to reduce legal disputes and promote ease of doing business
• Revised ESI AYUSH Policy:
• Approves hiring of Yoga therapists and Panchakarma attendants in ESIC hospitals

Adi Karmyogi Programme

Launched by: Ministry of Tribal Affairs

About:

• Aim: Build a cadre of highly motivated officers and changemakers focused on grassroots transformation.
• Objective: Capacity building for 20 lakh field-level stakeholders by developing trainers and master trainers at State, district, and block levels.
• Key Focus: Changing attitude and motivation of field officials towards citizen-centric ideation and service delivery.
• Target Coverage: 1 lakh tribal villages and habitations.

Current Account Balance

Recent Data:

• Q4 FY25: Surplus of $13.5 billion (1.3% of GDP)
• FY25 Overall Deficit: $23.3 billion (0.6% of GDP), lower than $26 billion (0.7% of GDP) in FY24

What is the Current Account Balance?

• Measures trade in goods, services, income, and current transfers between a country and the world.
• It is a key component of the Balance of Payments (BoP).
• India usually runs a trade deficit on an annual basis.

Goldilocks Economy

Concept:

• Refers to an economy that is not too hot or too cold, but in a stable, optimal state.
• Coined to describe a just-right economic scenario—balanced growth and inflation.

Key Characteristics:

• Low unemployment
• Steady GDP growth
• Low inflation and interest rates
• Positive for equity markets due to strong company performance

Current Status:

• The Finance Ministry observes that the Indian economy is in a relative Goldilocks phase.

Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra

About the Festival:

• Location: Puri, Odisha
• Deities Involved: Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra
• Event: Annual ceremonial journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple
• Timing: Begins on the second day of the Asadha month (June–July)
• Return Journey: Known as Bahuda Yatra, held one week later

Vera C. Rubin Observatory

Location: Chile

Project:

• Conducts the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) – a 10-year mission to map the southern sky
• Objective: Capture wide-field images to study dark matter, dark energy, transient phenomena, and more

Named After:

• Vera C. Rubin, an American astronomer who provided early evidence of dark matter through her research on galaxy rotation curves.