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  • Centre unveils policy to tackle terror threats

    Why in the News?

    The Union Home Ministry has unveiled India’s first National Counter Terrorism Policy and Strategy (PRAHAAR). The policy seeks to criminalise all terrorist acts, disrupt terror financing, deny logistical support, and strengthen coordination across Central and State agencies. The policy marks a structural shift from reactive counter-terror responses to an integrated, ecosystem-based national security framework covering land, air, water, cyber, and financial domains. The move assumes significance amid rising cross-border terrorism, drone-enabled attacks, and digital radicalisation.

    What is the rationale behind this policy?

    1. The move follows the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam terror incident, which exposed vulnerabilities in intelligence coordination and emerging drone misuse. 
    2. Previously, counter-terror responses were largely reactive and dispersed across agencies without a single doctrinal framework. 
    3. The policy is significant because it integrates prevention, detection, prosecution, and financial disruption under one strategy, covering both state and non-state actors. 
    4. It also formally recognises technological threats such as encrypted platforms, cryptocurrency, and dark web logistics, marking a shift from traditional cross-border terror focus to hybrid and networked terror ecosystems.

    What is the doctrinal architecture of PRAHAAR: Pillar-wise Breakdown

    1. P-Prevention of Terror Attacks; Focus: Intelligence-led, proactive neutralisation. It includes
      1. Intelligence Primacy: Intelligence-guided counter-terror approach; threat neutralisation before execution.
      2. MAC & JTFI Framework: Real-time intelligence aggregation through Multi Agency Centre (MAC) and Joint Task Force on Intelligence under IB.
      3. OGW Disruption: Systematic dismantling of Over Ground Worker logistics and recruitment networks.
      4. Cyber Disruption: Targeting online propaganda, recruitment modules, encrypted communication misuse.
      5. Critical Infrastructure Security: Protection of power, railways, aviation, ports, defence, space, atomic energy sectors.
      6. Border Surveillance: Technological tools deployed across land, air and maritime frontiers.
      7. Core Shift: From reactive policing to preventive security architecture.
    2. R-Responses (Swift & Proportionate); Focus: Layered operational response model. It includes:
      1. Local Police as First Responder: Federal structure respected; decentralised operational response.
      2. State ATS & Special Counter terrorism (CT) Units: Specialised anti-terror forces in vulnerable States.
      3. NSG as National Nodal Force: National Security Guard for major attacks and capacity building.
      4. SOP-Based Coordination: Standard Operating Procedures for apex-level coordination via MHA.
      5. CAPF Deployment: Central Armed Police Forces assisting States in counter-terror operations.
      6. High Conviction Emphasis: NIA-led investigations ensuring deterrence through prosecution.
      7. Core Shift: Structured escalation matrix for response.
    3. A-Aggregating Internal Capacities; Focus: Whole-of-Government synergy. It includes:
      1. Modernisation Mandate: Continuous upgradation of weapons, surveillance tools, training modules.
      2. Standardisation Across States: Uniform anti-terror structures, investigation methodologies.
      3. BPR&D Role: Training and best practice dissemination for State Police & CAPFs.
      4. NSG Urban Combat Training: Specialised combat readiness for metropolitan threats.
      5. Resource Gap Identification: Institutional capacity audit and correction
      6. Core Shift: Elimination of silo-based security functioning.
    4. H-Human Rights & Rule of Law Based Processes; Focus: Constitutional legitimacy. It includes:
      1. Legal Framework Anchoring: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, as principal law; supported by BNS 2023, BNSS 2023, BSA 2023, PMLA 2002, Arms Act 1959, Explosives Act 1908.
      2. Judicial Oversight: Multi-tier judicial review up to the Supreme Court.
      3. Human Rights Act 1993: Protection against rights violations.
      4. International Commitments: Adherence to Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) 1948 and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
      5. Due Process Safeguards: Appeals and legal redressal mechanisms ensured.
      6. Core Shift: Security operations embedded within constitutional democracy.
    5. A-Attenuating Conditions Conducive to Terrorism; Focus: Addressing root drivers. It includes:
      1. Graded De-radicalisation: Calibrated intervention based on degree of radicalisation.
      2. Community Engagement: Involvement of religious leaders, NGOs, moderate preachers.
      3. Prison Monitoring: Preventing indoctrination within correctional facilities.
      4. Youth Engagement: Constructive programs to prevent extremist recruitment.
      5. Socio-Economic Interventions: Addressing poverty, unemployment, housing and education gaps.
      6. Women & Youth Empowerment Schemes: Scholarships and loan support to reduce vulnerability.
      7. Core Shift: Terrorism treated as socio-psychological and developmental challenge, not merely law-and-order issue.
    6. A-Aligning & Shaping International Efforts; Focus: Transnational cooperation. It includes:
      1. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) & Extradition Treaties: Legal cooperation for evidence sharing and fugitive return.
      2. Joint Working Groups (JWG): Bilateral intelligence engagement platforms.
      3. UN Designation Support: Pursuit of global terrorist listings.
      4. Agency-to-Agency Cooperation: Intelligence sharing with foreign counterparts.
      5. Global ICT Misuse Countering: Addressing terrorist exploitation of digital ecosystems.
      6. Core Shift: Counter-terror extended beyond national jurisdiction.
    7. R-Recovery & Resilience (Whole-of-Society Approach); Focus: Post-attack stabilisation. It includes:
      1. Public-Private Partnership: Private sector participation in recovery.
      2. Civil Administration Leadership: Reconstruction and restoration.
      3. Psychological Rehabilitation: Doctors, psychologists, civil society involvement.
      4. Community Reintegration: Social healing and confidence rebuilding.
      5. Preventive Reinforcement: Strengthened security measures post-incident.
      6. Core Shift: From counter-terror to societal resilience model.

    How Does the Policy Restructure India’s Counter-Terror Governance Framework?

    1. National Framework Institutionalisation: Establishes India’s first unified counter-terror doctrine integrating Centre-State coordination.
    2. Ecosystem Approach: Targets not only terrorists but also financiers, handlers, recruiters, and facilitators.
    3. Multi-Domain Coverage: Addresses threats across land, air, water, cyber, and financial systems.
    4. Inter-Agency Coordination: Strengthens operational synergy among intelligence, enforcement, and financial monitoring agencies.
    5. Legal Backing: Aims to criminalise all forms of terrorist support infrastructure.

    How Does the Policy Address Cross-Border and State-Sponsored Terrorism?

    1. Recognition of Proxy Warfare: Identifies state and non-state actors targeting India through terrorism.
    2. Cross-Border Networks: Acknowledges foreign handlers coordinating logistics and recruitment.
    3. Global Jihadist Linkages: Notes influence of outfits such as Al-Qaeda and IS in inciting lone-wolf or cell-based violence.
    4. Punjab & J&K Linkages: Recognises drone-based smuggling of arms and narcotics across borders.
    5. Transnational Cooperation: Emphasises international collaboration to counter financing and safe havens.

    How Does the Policy Respond to Emerging Technological Threats?

    1. Drone Regulation: Identifies misuse of drones for smuggling arms and reconnaissance.
    2. Encrypted Platforms: Flags encrypted messaging apps as tools for coordination.
    3. Cryptocurrency Monitoring: Recognises dark web and crypto wallets as terror-financing channels.
    4. Cyber Radicalisation: Targets online propaganda and recruitment networks.
    5. Digital Forensics: Strengthens use of technical intelligence in disruption operations.

    How Does the Policy Strengthen Preventive and Pre-Emptive Mechanisms?

    1. Pre-Emptive Intelligence: Enhances predictive threat assessment models.
    2. Community Engagement: Involves civil society and religious leaders to counter radicalisation.
    3. Youth De-Radicalisation: Focuses on preventing extremist recruitment among youth.
    4. Capacity Building: Improves training of state police forces in counter-terror techniques.
    5. Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosives (CBRNE) Preparedness: Recognises risks of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive materials.

    How Does the Policy Reinforce Institutional Accountability and Federal Balance?

    1. Central-State Synergy: Promotes coordinated response while respecting federal structure.
    2. Role of NIA: Strengthens investigative mandate of the National Investigation Agency in major terror cases.
    3. Legal Standardisation: Ensures uniform procedures across states.
    4. Process Standardisation: Encourages similar and synergistic response frameworks.
    5. Parliamentary Oversight Potential: Opens scope for legislative scrutiny of implementation effectiveness.

    What Are the Regulatory and Legal Implications of the Policy?

    1. Criminalisation Framework: Broadens scope to include logistical and financial support.
    2. Financial Disruption: Targets funding channels through financial intelligence units.
    3. Safe Haven Denial: Focuses on dismantling recruitment and shelter networks.
    4. Surveillance Expansion: Raises concerns on balancing security with privacy rights under Article 21.
    5. Counter-Terror Cell Coordination: Enhances role of specialised Counter Terrorism Cells.

    Conclusion

    The National Counter Terrorism Policy marks a transition from fragmented counter-terror responses to a structured, ecosystem-based security doctrine. Its effectiveness will depend on inter-agency coordination, federal cooperation, technological capability, and safeguards against misuse. Institutional balance between national security and civil liberties remains central to sustainable implementation.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2023] Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘No Money for Terror (NMFT)’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.

    Linkage: This question directly maps to GS Paper 3 (Internal Security), particularly terror financing, money laundering, and transnational security cooperation. It links with India’s PRAHAAR doctrine and NMFT initiative, highlighting the financial disruption pillar of counter-terror strategy and global coordination against terror funding networks.

  • Smog-Eating Photocatalytic Coating

    Why in the News

    • The Delhi Government and IIT Madras are collaborating to study smog eating photocatalytic coatings on roads to reduce urban air pollution.

    What is Smog-Eating Photocatalytic Coating

    • A special coating applied on roads and buildings
    • Designed to neutralize harmful pollutants in the air
    • Targets:
      • Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
      • Volatile hydrocarbons
      • Other toxic gases

    Compound Used

    Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂)

    • Most commonly used material
    • Advantages:
      • Low cost
      • Chemically stable
      • Durable
      • Compatible with construction materials

    Working Mechanism

    Photocatalysis Process

    • Sunlight activates Titanium dioxide
    • Chemical reactions break down pollutants
    • Converts harmful gases into:
      • Less toxic substances
      • Harmless compounds

    Result:

    • Cleaner air
    • Reduced smog levels
    • Environmental cleaning

    Applications

    • Roads, Buildings, Pavements, Flyovers, and Public infrastructure

    Benefits

    • Reduces urban air pollution
    • Passive pollution control
    • Low maintenance
    • Cost effective
    • Sustainable technology
    [2013] Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction among: (a) NO 2 ​ , O 3 ​ and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) in the presence of sunlight (b) CO 2 ​ , O 2 ​ , and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight (c) CO, CO 2 ​ , and NO 2 ​ at low temperature (d) high concentration of NO 2 ​ , O 3 ​ and CO in the evening

  • Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)

    Why in the News

    Recently, the Prime Minister of India chaired a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting to review the global situation amid the West Asia conflict and assess mitigation measures across sectors.

    About the Cabinet Committee on Security

    • Highest decision making body on national security (Executive Body) 
    • Headed by Prime Minister of India
    • Deals with:
      • Defence policy
      • National security
      • Strategic affairs
      • Intelligence matters

    History

    • First formed in 1947 after Independence
    • Created due to emerging national security challenges
    • Initial members included:
      • Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru
      • Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
      • Defence Minister Baldev Singh
    • After 1999 Kargil War
      • CCS evolved into formal high powered structure
      • Became apex national security decision body
    [2014] Which of the following is/are the function/functions of the Cabinet Secretariat? 1 Preparation of agenda for Cabinet Meetings. 2 Secretariat assistance to Cabinet Committees. 3 Allocation of financial resources to the Ministries. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • FlDepth: New ISRO Tool to Measure Flood Depth from Space

    Why in the News

    Researchers at the National Remote Sensing Centre have developed FlDepth, a new GIS based tool that measures floodwater depth from space in near real time.

    What is FlDepth

    • A satellite based flood depth estimation tool
    • Developed by ISRO National Remote Sensing Centre
    • Converts 2D satellite flood images into 3D flood depth maps
    • Helps in disaster response and flood management
    [2019] For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used? 
    1 Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location 
    2 Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location 
    3 Land surface temperatures of a specific location 
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • IVRI Produces Sahiwal Calves Using Advanced Reproductive Technology

    Why in the News

    The Indian Veterinary Research Institute successfully produced Sahiwal breed calves using advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies, marking a major breakthrough in genetic improvement of indigenous cattle.

    Key Highlights

    • Institute: ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly
    • Breed: Sahiwal indigenous cattle
    • Technology used:
      • Ovum Pick Up (OPU)
      • In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
      • Embryo Transfer (ET)
    • Five healthy Sahiwal calves born within five days starting 28 February 2026

    What is OPU-IVF-ET Technology

    • Ovum Pick-Up (OPU): Ultrasound-guided collection of eggs from elite female animals
    • In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Fertilisation in laboratory using selected superior semen
    • Embryo Transfer (ET): Developed embryos transferred to surrogate mothers
      • Enables rapid multiplication of superior genetics

    Why the Sahiwal Breed is Important

    • Indigenous dairy breed
    • Heat tolerant
    • Disease resistant
    • Suitable for tropical climates
    • High milk productivity among native breeds
    [2017] What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology? (a) Production of biolarvicides (b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics (c) Reproductive cloning of animals (d) Production of organisms free of diseases

  • UNEP Report: Waste Prevention Key to Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines

    Why in News

    A new report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) highlights waste prevention as the most effective strategy for the safe disposal of unused medicines, citing risks to environmental and public health.

    Why Improper Disposal is a Concern

    Improper disposal of medicines leads to:

    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
    • Endocrine disruption
    • Toxicity risks
    • Water, soil and air pollution
    • Accidental poisoning

    Unused and expired antimicrobials are particularly linked to AMR pollution.

    UNEP Four Pillar Framework

    The UNEP report proposes a Four-Pillar Approach:

    1. Prevention at source
    2. Medicine take-back systems
    3. Legal and policy frameworks
    4. Awareness and outreach programmes

    Unused Medicine in India 

    • Households discard up to 70% of purchased medicines, with common methods including throwing them in dustbins (over 80% in studies), contributing to environmental contamination and antimicrobial resistance
    • The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued formal guidelines to address this waste and the resulting environmental hazards.
    • Guidelines for:
    • Collection
    • Storage
    • Transportation
    • Disposal of expired medicines
    • 17 drugs placed under Flush List for safe disposal
    [2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India? 
    1 Genetic predisposition of some people 
    2 Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases 
    3 Using antibiotics in livestock farming 
    4 Multiple chronic diseases in some people 
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • Corporate Laws Amendment Bill 2026 Sent to Joint Parliamentary Committee

    Why in News

    The Lok Sabha introduced the Corporate Laws Amendment Bill 2026 and referred it to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed examination.

    Key Objectives of the Bill

    • Promote ease of doing business
    • Improve ease of living for corporates
    • Decriminalise minor offences
    • Rationalise penalties
    • Streamline regulatory procedures

    Laws Proposed to be Amended

    • Companies Act, 2013
    • Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008

    Major Proposed Changes

    • Shift minor procedural violations from criminal offences to monetary penalties
    • Simplify compliance requirements
    • Address gaps identified by Company Law Committee (2022)

    CSR Controversy

    • Opposition raised concerns about dilution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) norms
    • Current rule: Companies must spend 2% of net profits on CSR
    • Government clarification:
      • Only net profit calculation criteria being amended
      • CSR requirement remains unchanged

    Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)

    • The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is not a constitutional body. 
    • It is an ad-hoc (temporary) body established by Parliament through a motion passed in both houses, or by the Speaker/Chairman of both houses, to examine specific bills or investigate urgent matters, not established directly by the Constitution.
    [2024] With reference to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rules in India, consider the following statements: 
    1 CSR rules specify that expenditures that benefit the company directly or its employees will not be considered as CSR activities. 
    2 CSR rules do not specify minimum spending on CSR activities. 
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 
    (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Centre Considers 2011 Census-Based Delimitation to Implement Women’s Quota

    Why in the News

    The Union Government is considering a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census to implement the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 before the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

    Key Proposals

    • Lok Sabha seats likely to increase from 543 to 816
    • 273 seats proposed to be reserved for women
    • State Assembly seats may also be expanded
    • Amendment Bill may be introduced in:
      • Ongoing Budget Session, or
      • Special Session of Parliament

    Reason for the Move

    • Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 requires:
      • Census
      • Delimitation
      • Then implementation of 33% quota
    • 2021 Census delayed due to COVID-19
    • Without amendment, implementation could be delayed beyond 2030
    • Government aims to implement quota before 2029 elections

    Concerns of States

    • Southern States worried about loss of representation
    • Government proposal:
      • Maintain existing proportion of seats
      • Around 50% increase in seats across all States
      • Pro-rata distribution to avoid regional imbalance

    Constitutional Background

    • Article 82: Delimitation after first Census post-2026
    • Proposed amendment:
      • Use 2011 Census data
      • Avoid waiting for latest Census completion 
    [2024] Consider the following statements regarding ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’: 1 Provisions will come into effect from the 18th Lok Sabha. 2 This will be in force for 15 years after becoming an Act. 3 There are provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes Women within the quota reserved for the Scheduled Castes. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only

  • [23rd March 2026] The Hindu OpED: Double engine-cute slogan, a serious federal question

    PYQ Relevance[UPSC 2024] What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism.Linkage: The PYQ examines evolving Centre-State relations and trust deficit, a core GS-2 theme reflecting tensions in fiscal federalism and governance. The “double engine” debate reflects concerns over erosion of cooperative federalism and need for institutional trust-building.

    Mentor’s Comment

    The idea of a “double engine government” implies faster development when the same party governs both the Union and the State. However, this political narrative raises serious constitutional concerns regarding cooperative federalism, fiscal equity, and institutional neutrality, as envisaged under the Indian Constitution.

    Does the ‘Double Engine’ Narrative Undermine Constitutional Federalism?

    1. Constitutional Design: Ensures a federal structure with unitary bias, where Union and States operate within defined spheres.
    2. Political Distortion: Suggests preferential governance for politically aligned States, deviating from constitutional neutrality.
    3. Electoral Messaging: Links development outcomes with party alignment rather than policy performance.

    How Does Fiscal Federalism Reflect Emerging Centre-State Frictions?

    1. Finance Commission Role: Ensures objective devolution based on criteria like income distance under Article 280.
    2. Resource Centralization: Increases Union’s fiscal dominance through cesses and surcharges, reducing divisible pool.
    3. Population Criteria Debate: Penalizes States with successful population control (e.g., Southern States).
    4. State Concerns: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka raise issues of being treated as “beggars” despite contribution.

    Are Governors Acting as Neutral Constitutional Authorities?

    1. Constitutional Mandate: Requires Governors to act as impartial constitutional heads.
    2. Legislative Delays: Instances of Bills being withheld or delayed, bypassing elected legislatures.
    3. Judicial Intervention: Courts emphasize timely assent as constitutional obligation.
    4. Case Example: Supreme Court observations in Punjab (2023) and Tamil Nadu (2025) highlight misuse of discretion.

    Does Political Alignment Affect Governance Delivery?

    1. Administrative Efficiency: Facilitates coordination when the same party governs at both levels.
    2. Discriminatory Outcomes: Leads to delays in opposition-ruled States, affecting welfare delivery.
    3. Policy Bias: Shifts governance from citizen-centric to party-centric approach.

    Is Cooperative Federalism Being Replaced by Competitive/Aligned Federalism?

    1. Shift in Decision-Making: Moves from institutional consultation (GST Council, Inter-State Council) to top-down policy imposition, reducing genuine collaboration. Example: Growing concerns over unilateral fiscal decisions like cesses reducing State share.
    2. Performance vs Political Proximity: Replaces objective competition (Ease of Doing Business, SDG rankings) with *political alignment as a criterion for faster approvals and support. Example: Perception that “double engine” States receive quicker project clearances.
    3. Fiscal Incentive Distortion: Undermines rule-based devolution by increasing discretionary transfers, weakening Finance Commission neutrality. Example: Rising share of centrally sponsored schemes with conditionalities.
    4. Erosion of Institutional Federalism: Weakens platforms meant for cooperation, leading to bilateral Centre-State power asymmetry instead of multilateral dialogue. Example: Declining relevance of Inter-State Council.
    5. From Cooperative to Aligned Federalism: Introduces a model where governance efficiency depends on political alignment, not constitutional design, creating unequal federal experience across States. 

    What Structural Reforms Are Needed to Restore Federal Balance?

    1. Statutory Timelines: Ensures time-bound gubernatorial assent to Bills.
    2. Finance Commission Strengthening: Enhances credibility and fairness in resource distribution.
    3. Inter-State Council Revival: Promotes institutional dialogue under Article 263.
    4. Fiscal Transparency: Reduces cess-based centralization of revenues. 

    Conclusion

    The “double engine” narrative reflects a shift from constitutional federalism to politically aligned governance. Sustaining India’s federal structure requires reinforcing institutional neutrality, fiscal fairness, and cooperative mechanisms, ensuring that governance remains citizen-centric rather than party-driven.

  • India’s dual dependence on West Asia for urea production

    Why in the News?

    India’s fertilizer security is entering a phase of structural vulnerability. The ongoing West Asian geopolitical tensions have exposed a critical fragility, India’s heavy dependence on imported LNG and urea supply chains. With over 60% LNG imports linked to West Asia and urea imports rising despite domestic capacity, any disruption, such as a Strait of Hormuz blockade, can directly threaten food security.

    Why is India’s fertilizer security under threat due to West Asia?

    1. Dual Dependence: India relies on LNG imports for urea production and direct urea imports, exposing both supply chains to geopolitical risks.
    2. High Import Linkage: ~50% of India’s LNG imports come from West Asia, making supply highly vulnerable to regional instability.
    3. Critical Chokepoint Risk: Strait of Hormuz dependency, over 40% of global oil trade passes through it, with Qatar being a major LNG supplier.
    4. Rising Import Burden: India imported 26 lakh metric tonnes of urea in 2025, despite domestic production capacity.

    How does LNG availability impact urea production in India?

    1. Feedstock Dependence: LNG serves as the primary input for ammonia production, which is further processed into urea.
    2. Energy-Intensive Nature: Urea plants require continuous and stable gas supply; disruptions reduce output.
    3. Production Constraints: Several urea plants are operating below full capacity, limiting domestic supply.
    4. Environmental Shift: Plants have shifted from naphtha/fuel oil to natural gas due to lower emissions, increasing LNG reliance.

    What are the structural vulnerabilities in India’s fertilizer ecosystem?

    1. Demand-Supply Gap: India’s urea consumption reached 387 lakh metric tonnes (2025), while domestic production is ~306 lakh tonnes, leaving a significant gap.
    2. Import Concentration:
      1. 45% of urea imports from Oman
      2. 26% from Saudi Arabia
      3. Remaining from UAE and others
    3. LNG Import Concentration:
      1. Qatar: 41.4%
      2. USA: 19.5%
      3. Others include UAE, Oman, Angola
    4. Sectoral Usage:
      1. Fertilizers: ~21.6% of LNG use
      2. City gas distribution, power, refinery sectors also compete for gas.

    How does the West Asian conflict disrupt global fertilizer supply chains?

    1. Trade Disruptions: Conflict has disrupted LPG and LNG shipments, tightening global energy markets.
    2. Price Surge: Rising crude oil prices increase fertilizer production costs globally.
    3. Shipping Risks: Potential closure or instability in Hormuz Strait threatens uninterrupted energy flows.
    4. Global Supply Chain Shock: Fertilizer markets are globally integrated; disruption in one region leads to price volatility and shortages elsewhere.

    What policy measures has India undertaken to mitigate risks?

    1. Regulatory Inclusion: New Gas Pricing Guidelines (2026) include fertilizers, ensuring priority gas allocation.
    2. Import Diversification: Efforts to diversify LNG sources beyond West Asia.
    3. Domestic Capacity Expansion: Increased urea production capacity over the last decade.
    4. Strategic Reserves: Maintaining buffer stocks of fertilizers to cushion short-term disruptions.

    What are the broader implications for India’s food and economic security?

    1. Agricultural Risk: Urea is essential for crops like rice and wheat; supply shocks threaten food grain output.
    2. Fiscal Pressure: Increased imports and subsidies raise fertilizer subsidy burden.
    3. Inflationary Impact: Rising fertilizer costs can increase food inflation.
    4. Strategic Vulnerability: Energy dependence translates into agricultural vulnerability, linking geopolitics to food security.

    Conclusion

    India’s fertilizer security is increasingly shaped by global geopolitics. Reducing LNG dependence, diversifying imports, and enhancing domestic production are essential to ensure agricultural resilience and long-term food security.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2017] The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.

    Linkage: This PYQ highlights India’s critical dependence on West Asia for energy imports, making energy security central to economic stability and growth. The article extends this dependence to fertilizers via LNG-based urea production, showing how West Asian instability directly threatens India’s food and economic security.