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  • [8th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Technology and the challenge of equitable education

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate your answer (UPSC CSE 2020)

    Q) Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.  (UPSC CSE 2019)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on National Education Policy (2020), and Significance of Primary Education (2016 and 2022).

    Did you know that, the Budget Allocation for the FY 2024-25 of ₹ 73,498 cr is the highest ever for the Department of School Education & Literacy. On the other hand, while science and technology have integrated countries, education can generate the need for profit and can widespread use of innovations.

    Today’s editorial discusses the major observations from the ASER 2024 Report. This content can be used in Mains answer to present the Digital divide in Rural and Urban Area. Further this content also tells you the Potential of Digital infrastructure and Implementation that India needs to build. 

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    According to the recent ACER Survey 2024, India lacks a road map in the field of education that allows the promise of technology to be harnessed for those who need it the most.

    What are the Key Highlights given by ASER 2024?

    The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is a citizen-led survey that provides estimates of schooling and learning levels in rural India. Published by the NGO Pratham, ASER has been conducted since 2005. After 2016, the survey transitioned to an alternate-year model, with the “basic” ASER conducted in all rural districts every other year. In the intervening years, a smaller survey focuses on specific age groups and domains. The “basic” ASER tracks enrollment for children aged 3-16 and assesses the reading and arithmetic skills of children aged 5-16 through household surveys.
    • Academic Observations and Reporting: Since 2006, private school enrollment in rural India has been increasing, plateauing at 30.8% in 2014 and remaining there in 2018.
      • Basic arithmetic abilities in Class 3 have risen to 33.7% in 2024, exceeding both 2022 and 2018 rates. Class 5 reading levels are also up, nearly matching 2018 figures, although private schools have not yet reached their pre-pandemic reading levels.
      • Attendance for both teachers and students in government elementary schools has improved. Several states have pre-primary enrollment rates above 90%.
    • Focus on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: The big push for foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) under NEP 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat Mission has helped to improve foundational learning through better resources, learning materials, and teacher training which appears to be a major contributor to the improvements noted in the ASER 2024 report.
    • Emphasis on Early Childhood Education: NEP 2020’s emphasis on early childhood education is expected to further improve access, as ASER 2024 reported increased enrollment in early childhood education, with almost 80% of children aged 3 to 6 years enrolled in some form of pre-primary education.
    • Improved Accessibility and Potential: In 2018, approximately 90% of rural households possessed basic mobile phones, while 36% owned smartphones. By 2022, smartphone ownership in these households increased to over 74%, and further to 84% in 2024, but educational use is limited to 57%.
      • Among children aged 14-16, smartphone ownership rose from 19% to about 31% within a year.
      • Smartphones were mainly used to send texts, worksheets, and videos during the pandemic as a substitute for textbooks. Digital skills from the pandemic remained relevant, and artificial intelligence (AI) generated new interest.
    • Reversing Pandemic Losses: The ASER 2024 report suggests a rebound from the learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in government schools, where reading and arithmetic skills have reached or exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
      • The improvement in standard III implies that some of its credit can go to the NIPUN Bharat Mission.

    What are the present challenges of digital divide in India according to ASER Report 2024?

    • Gender Disparity: Boys outpace girls in access, ownership, and smartphone usage, which puts girls at a disadvantage and exacerbates existing inequalities. Even when smartphones are available, girls face systemic barriers that limit their access, such as social norms, parental control, and prioritization of boys’ education.
    • Access vs. Usage: While nearly all children between 14 and 16 have access to cell phones, only 57% use smart devices for education-related activities, while about 76% use them for social media.
    • Variations Across States: ASER 2024 indicates wide variations in digital literacy across states.
    • Digital Literacy Skills: While smartphone access is widespread, structured digital education programs can enhance meaningful use of technology for learning.
      • There is a gender gap in digital skills, with 85.5% of boys and 79.4% of girls reporting that they know how to use a smartphone.
    • Smartphone Ownership: There is a gender gap in smartphone ownership, with only 36.2% of boys and 26.9% of girls reporting owning a smartphone.
      • This lack of personal ownership limits access and curtails opportunities for girls to explore and learn independently.

    How can technology be leveraged to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to educational resources?

    • Targeted distribution of school-owned devices: Schools can monitor device-to-student ratios to decide how each device can best support specific learning activities within the curriculum.
      • Distribution can be based on the individual needs of the student, ensuring that each device is allocated where it can have the most significant impact on learning.
    • Embrace pedagogically-led technology integration: Prioritizing integrating technology in a way that enhances the learning experience as a whole can ensure that every student benefits from the transformative potential of digital tools.
      • This includes how educators are trained in technology as a means to achieve equitable learning outcomes.
    • Assess Needs and Resources: Survey families to understand current technology access at home and take inventory of existing school technology equipment and infrastructure. Identify areas that need upgrades to support 1:1 device programs.
    • Provide Multiple Access Options: Offer devices that students can use at school and take home and create a community technology center with free WiFi, computers, and printers. Partner with community organizations to provide access outside of school

  • In news: Darien Gap

    Why in the News?

    The illegal journey into the US often involves dangerous crossings through multiple countries, including the treacherous Darien Gap – a vast, roadless jungle that connects Colombia and Panama.

    In news: Darien Gap

    What is the Darien Gap?

    • The Darien Gap is a 97-km stretch of dense rainforest, swamps, and mountains that forms the only break in the Pan-American Highway, which otherwise runs from Alaska to Argentina.
    • Due to its extreme terrain, harsh climate, and lack of infrastructure, the region has remained largely impenetrable.
    • However, in recent years, it has become a major migration route, as thousands of people attempt to cross it in hopes of reaching North America.
    • Geographical Features:
      • Location: Forms the border between Panama and Colombia.
      • Terrain: Consists of steep mountains, muddy swamps, fast-flowing rivers, and dense rainforests, making travel extremely difficult.
      • Climate: Has a hot, humid, and rainy environment with limited access to food and water.

    Geo-Political Significance:

    • Migration Crisis: Over 520,000 migrants crossed in 2023, with over 300,000 crossings in early 2024.
    • ‘Donkey Route’: Many migrants, including Indians, Venezuelans, Haitians, and Pakistanis, travel through Central American nations like Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala before reaching Mexico.
    • Criminal Activity: The region is controlled by smuggling networks, drug cartels, and armed groups, who demand money, rob migrants, or subject them to violence.
    • Humanitarian Concerns: Reports of sexual assaults, deaths, and disappearances are increasing, with overcrowded shelters and severe shortages of food, water, and medical aid.

    PYQ:

    [2015] The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events is related to:

    (a) Central Asia

    (b) Middle East

    (c) South-East Asia

    (d) Central Africa

  • What is Brucellosis?

    Why in the News?

    An 8-year-old girl in Kerala, recently succumbed to brucellosis, a bacterial infection primarily caused by the consumption of unpasteurised milk.

    About Brucellosis

    • Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Brucella species, primarily affecting cattle, goats, sheep, swine, and dogs.
    • Humans contract it through direct contact with infected animals, consuming contaminated animal products, or inhaling airborne agents.
    • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most common cause is the ingestion of unpasteurised milk or cheese from infected livestock.
    • Symptoms and Risk Factors:
      • Symptoms: Fever, weakness, weight loss, and general discomfort. The incubation period is 1-2 months, but most cases develop within 2-4 weeks.
      • At-Risk Groups: Farmers, butchers, veterinarians, hunters, and laboratory personnel handling infected animal tissues.
    • Treatment and Prevention:
      • Treatment: Doxycycline (100 mg, twice daily for 45 days) and Streptomycin (1 g daily for 15 days) as per medical advice.
      • Prevention: Vaccination of livestock, pasteurisation of milk, and public awareness campaigns to discourage the consumption of unpasteurised dairy products.

  • [7th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The saga of regulating India’s thermal power emissions

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC CSE 2020)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Environmental Impact Assessment studies (2015), and conventional energy generation (2020).

    On December 30, 2024, the MoEFCC extended the deadline for thermal plants to meet SO₂ emission norms by three years without explanation. Originally set for December 31, 2024, this delay affects 20 GW of plants near densely populated areas. These norms were set in 2015 to tighten particulate matter limits and introduced SO₂ norms for the first time, aligning them with standards in countries like Australia, China, and the U.S., despite the short timeline for compliance.

    Today’s editorial talks about the revised emission norms for Indian thermal plants and impact of these norms. This content will help in GS Paper 3.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On December 30, 2024, India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) changed the Environment Protection Rules, extending the deadline for thermal power plants to meet sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emission standards by three years without providing any explanation.

    What are the revised emission norms for Indian thermal plants?

    • New Deadlines: On December 30, 2024, India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) extended the deadlines for thermal power plants to comply with sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emission norms by three years. The revised deadlines are:
      • Category A (By Dec 31, 2027) – Thermal plants within 10 km of NCR or cities with over 1 million population (e.g., Dadri NTPC, Koradi) must comply first due to high pollution and population density.
      • Category B (By Dec 31, 2028) – Plants in critically polluted areas or non-attainment cities (e.g., Singrauli, Korba, Chandrapur) get extended timelines due to severe environmental concerns.
      • Category C (By Dec 31, 2029) – All other plants (e.g., Talcher, Mundra, Simhadri) must comply last as they are in lower-risk areas with relatively better air quality.
    • Historical Context: The original norms were established in December 2015, with an initial compliance deadline set for December 2017. This was later extended multiple times due to various challenges.

    Note: The categories for compliance with SO₂ emission norms for Indian thermal power plants are based on location and environmental impact.

    What are the challenges around implementing the flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) technology?

    • Technical and Financial Hurdles: The implementation of FGD technology has faced delays primarily due to high costs, inadequate supply chains, and operational complexities. Many plants tendered contracts for FGDs but did not progress at a pace necessary to meet earlier deadlines.
    • Debate on Necessity: Recent studies commissioned by NITI Aayog and conducted by CSIR-NEERI have questioned the urgency and necessity of FGD installations for improving air quality, suggesting that focus should instead be on particulate emissions. This has led to confusion and varied interpretations of compliance requirements among stakeholders.

    How successful has India been in implementing emission norms for thermal power plants?

    • Limited Progress: As of late 2024, only about 22 GW of thermal capacity had installed FGDs, which is less than 8% of the total coal-fired power generation capacity in India. The overall progress has been slower than anticipated since the introduction of the norms.
    • Compliance Monitoring Issues: There is a lack of transparency regarding adherence to existing norms, as pollution control boards have not consistently verified compliance. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

    What are the economic and environmental consequences of noncompliance and what measures are in place to address this?

    • Health Impacts: The extension of compliance deadlines poses risks to public health, especially in densely populated areas like Delhi-NCR, where air pollution is already a critical issue. SO₂ is known to contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
    • Financial Burden on Consumers: Electricity regulators have allowed thermal plants to pass on the costs of installing FGDs to consumers, regardless of whether emission norms are met. This means consumers may end up paying for pollution control equipment that remains unused due to extended compliance timelines.
    • Environmental Compensation: For non-compliance beyond specified timelines, MoEFCC has introduced an environmental compensation scheme that penalizes plants based on their duration of non-compliance. This includes fees that escalate over time but may not be sufficient to incentivize timely compliance.

    Way forward: 

    • Strict Enforcement & Incentives – Strengthen regulatory oversight with real-time emissions monitoring, enforce penalties for non-compliance, and provide financial incentives or subsidies to accelerate FGD adoption.
    • Balanced Policy Approach – Address technical and financial barriers by improving supply chains, supporting domestic FGD manufacturing, and ensuring a phased yet firm transition while prioritising high-risk areas.

  • Bhopal’s new order criminalising begging

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Bhopal district collector banned begging in the district and imposed strict rules, including filing police cases against both those who beg and those who give alms.

    What legal basis is Bhopal using to criminalize begging?

    • Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023: The orders by the collectors of Indore and Bhopal are under this section, which empowers officials like the District Magistrate or any Executive Magistrate to issue orders in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger. This order can direct any person to abstain from a certain act and may apply to residents or the public frequenting a particular area.
    • Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): Action will be taken under this section, which punishes those disobeying an order announced by a public servant lawfully empowered to do so.

    What are the penalties for violating the order?

    • Disobedience of the order can result in simple imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 2500, or both.
    • If the disobedience causes or tends to cause danger to human life, health, or safety, imprisonment can extend to one year, and the fine to Rs 5000.

    How have different regions in India approached the issue?

    • Bombay Prevention of Beggary Act, 1959:  The first law against begging, with colonial roots, aimed to clear streets of destitute persons, leprosy patients, or those with mental illnesses by sending them to institutions. Mumbai still has detention centres under this Act, allowing police to detain those without visible means of subsistence, with punishment extending to detention for 10 years.
    • Delhi High Court (2018) Struck down some sections of the Bombay Prevention of Beggary Act as unconstitutional, decriminalizing begging in Delhi. The court stated that people beg out of need, as a last resort for survival, and the government has a mandate to provide social security3.
    • Other States Many states, including Maharashtra, continue to criminalise begging under the Bombay Prevention of Beggary Act. There is no central act on begging, but many states have enacted their own laws based on the 1959 Act.
    • Rehabilitation Efforts In 2020: the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment proposed focusing on rehabilitation rather than criminalising begging in ten cities, including Mumbai

    How have different regions in India approached the issue?

    • State-Level Criminalization: Around 22 states and union territories have anti-begging laws, many modeled after the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, which criminalizes begging, vagrancy, and soliciting alms, allowing arrest without a warrant.
      • States like Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and others have enacted similar laws.
    • Decriminalization Efforts & Judicial Interventions: The Delhi High Court (2018) struck down parts of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act as unconstitutional, decriminalizing begging in Delhi. The Supreme Court (2021) also refused to ban begging nationwide, recognizing that criminalizing it unfairly targets the poor. Rajasthan has taken a more rehabilitative approach.

    What are the arguments for and against criminalizing begging?

    Arguments in favour: 

    • Curbing Organized Begging Rackets – Criminalization helps tackle forced begging, where vulnerable individuals, including children and disabled people, are exploited by criminal networks.
    • Public Safety and Order – Authorities argue that begging creates nuisance, disrupts traffic, and can lead to petty crimes, making public spaces unsafe.
    • Encouraging Rehabilitation – Some laws claim to detain beggars for rehabilitation, ensuring they receive food, shelter, and vocational training instead of relying on alms.

    Argument against: 

    • Violation of Fundamental Rights – Criminalizing begging punishes poverty, not crime, violating the right to life (Article 21) by penalizing individuals who have no means of survival.
    • State’s Failure in Social Security – The presence of beggars reflects gaps in government welfare, and punishing them shifts the burden away from state accountability.
    • Arbitrary and Unjust Implementation – Many laws allow arrests without warrants, disproportionately targeting the homeless, disabled, and elderly, rather than addressing systemic issues.

    Way forward: 

    • Rehabilitation-Centered Approach – Shift focus from criminalization to social welfare programs, including skill development, housing, mental health support, and reintegration into society.
    • Legislative Reforms & Judicial Oversight – Enact a uniform national policy that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment, while ensuring judicial oversight to prevent misuse of anti-begging laws.

    Mains question for practice:

    Q Critically examine the rationale behind criminalizing begging in India. Discuss the legal and constitutional challenges associated with such measures. (250 words) 15M

  • Joint Military Exercise ‘Ekuverin’

    Why in the News?

    The 13th edition of Exercise Ekuverin, the bilateral joint military exercise between India and the Maldives, commenced in the Maldives on February 4, 2025.

    About Exercise Ekuverin

    • The word “Ekuverin” means ‘Friends’ in the Dhivehi language, signifying the close ties between India and the Maldives.
    • The exercise was first conducted in 2009 as part of an annual bilateral military engagement.
    • It is held alternatively in India and the Maldives, promoting military cooperation between the two nations.
    • In 2023, the exercise was conducted at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, from June 11 to 24.
    • In 2025, the exercise is being conducted in the Maldives, further strengthening defence relations.

    Features and Significance:

    • The exercise aims to enhance military interoperability.
    • It focuses on joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, improving the preparedness of both nations.
    • The training includes humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, equipping both forces to respond effectively to crises.
    • It seeks to strengthen defence cooperation and regional security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

    India’s Defence Exercises with Southeast Asian Neighbours

    India actively participates in joint military exercises with its Southeast Asian partners to bolster regional security and defence cooperation.

    Key Bilateral and Multilateral Exercises:

    • Garuda Shakti: Special Forces exercise with Indonesia, conducted in November 2022 at the Sangga Buana Training Area, Indonesia.
    • Mitra Shakti: Annual military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, last conducted in 2022.
    • VINBAX: Joint military exercise with Vietnam, with the 3rd edition held in 2022.
    • IMBEX: Bilateral exercise between India-Myanmar, with its last known edition in 2017-18.
    • Maitree: Annual India-Thailand military exercise, conducted since 2006.
    • CORPAT: Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) exercises with Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia to ensure maritime security.
    • AIME 2023: The first ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) held in May 2023, involving navies from India and ASEAN nations (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam).

  • Asteroid 2024 YR4

    Why in the News?

    NASA has identified a newly discovered near-Earth asteroid, 2024 YR4, which has a slightly more than 1% chance of impacting Earth in 2032.

    Asteroid 2024 YR4

    Asteroid 2024 YR4 and its Geographical Features:

    • The asteroid was discovered in December 2024 by an observatory in Chile.
    • It measures between 40 to 100 meters across, making it roughly the size of a football field.
      • The exact size is uncertain because astronomers estimate an asteroid’s size based on its brightness.
    • On December 25, 2024, the asteroid passed within 800,000 kilometers of Earth, which is approximately twice the distance of the Moon.
    • It will fade from sight in April 2025 and will not be visible again until 2028, when it approaches Earth once more.
    • The asteroid is currently rated 3 on the Torino Scale, which measures the risk of impact on a scale from 0 to 10.

    Potential Destruction from 2024 YR4 Impact:

    • If 2024 YR4 collides with Earth, it is expected to release between 8 to 10 megatons of energy, equivalent to multiple nuclear explosions.
    • It injured 1,500 people and damaged thousands of buildings across several cities.
    • In comparison, the Apophis asteroid, discovered in 2004, was initially rated 4 but was later downgraded after further observations ruled out an impact threat.

    How often do Asteroids crash Into Earth?

    • Thousands of small asteroids burn up in Earth’s atmosphere daily due to friction.
    • The Chelyabinsk meteor (2013) exploded over Russia with 30 times the power of the Hiroshima bomb.
    • Asteroids around 40 meters can cause regional destruction if they hit Earth.
    • Large asteroids (1 km+ in size) can trigger global disasters, occurring about once every 260 million years.
    • The Chicxulub asteroid (66 million years ago) led to the extinction of dinosaurs.

    How Space Agencies prevent Asteroid Collisions?

    • NASA and global space agencies work on planetary defense to prevent impacts.
    • In 2022, NASA’s DART mission successfully changed asteroid Dimorphos’s trajectory using kinetic impact.
    • Scientists explore 3 key methods for asteroid deflection:
      • Kinetic Impact:  Using spacecraft to hit an asteroid and alter its path.
      • Gravity Tractors:  Using a spacecraft’s gravity to pull an asteroid off course.
      • Nuclear Explosions: As a last resort, detonating a nuclear device near an asteroid to deflect or destroy it.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

    1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material.
    2. Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
    3. Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • GREAT Scheme

    Why in the News?

    As of February 4, 2025, 4 startups have been approved under the ‘Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)’ Scheme.

    About GREAT Scheme:

    • The GREAT Scheme is a government initiative under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM).
    • Launched by the Ministry of Textiles, it provides financial support to startups working in technical textiles.
    • The scheme focuses on Medical Textiles, Industrial Textiles, and Protective Textiles, fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.
    • It aims to promote entrepreneurship in technical textiles by funding early-stage innovations.
    • Provisions and Features:
      • Financial Support: Startups receive grants of up to ₹50 lakh for up to a period of 18 months.
      • No Royalty Requirement: Unlike private funding, the government does not take a share of the startup’s profits.
      • Upfront Contribution: Startups must deposit 10% of the allocated grant (e.g., ₹5 lakh for a ₹50 lakh grant).
      • Sector Focus: Covers Medical, Industrial, and Protective Technical Textiles.
      • Budget Allocation: Part of the ₹375 crore funding for FY 2025 under NTTM.

    Back2Basics: National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) 

    • Launched in 2020 to make India a global leader in technical textiles through research and innovation.
    • Budget of ₹1,480 crore, focusing on medical, industrial, protective, and geo-textiles.
    • Supports R&D, skill development, and investment in high-performance textiles for defense, healthcare, and infrastructure.
    • Includes Production-Linked Incentives (PLI), PM MITRA Parks, and quality control regulations to boost manufacturing.
    • Aims to increase India’s technical textiles market to $40-50 billion with 15-20% annual growth.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Analyse the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India.

  • New Makhana Board and Food Institute to be opened in Bihar

    Why in the News?

    The Union Budget 2025 has announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana (fox nut).

    What is Makhana? 

    makhana

    • Makhana, also known as fox nut, is the edible seed of the prickly water lily (Euryale ferox), grown in freshwater ponds across India and South Asia.
    • Bihar produces 90% of India’s makhana, with major hubs in Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, and Katihar.
    • It is nutrient-rich, low-fat, and considered a superfood, gaining popularity in domestic and international markets.
    • Traditionally used in religious rituals, makhana is now promoted for its health benefits and commercial potential.

    About the Makhana Board 

    • The Makhana Board will train farmers, ensure market access, regulate pricing, and promote exports.
    • The Food Processing Institute will focus on value addition, quality control, research, and global trade facilitation.
    • Aims & Objectives:
      • Increase production by promoting high-yield varieties like Swarna Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1.
      • Improve processing infrastructure to reduce wastage and enhance product quality.
      • Support exports through cargo infrastructure, trade partnerships, and branding initiatives.
    • Structural Mandate:
      • Governing body led by government officials, farmer representatives, and industry experts.
      • Regional centers in key makhana-producing districts to assist farmers.
      • Partnerships with ICAR, NABARD, and agricultural universities for research and financial support.
      • ₹100 crore initial funding for infrastructure, training, and market expansion.
    • Powers & Functions: Regulate production, enforce quality standards, provide subsidies, promote research, develop export infrastructure, and launch branding campaigns.

  • What is the SC directive on sacred groves?

    Why in the News?

    On December 18, 2024, the Supreme Court ordered Rajasthan’s Forest Department to map all sacred groves using satellite and ground surveys based on their cultural and ecological importance, regardless of their size.

    Note: In Rajasthan, sacred groves, locally known as ‘orans’, are estimated to number around 25,000, covering approximately 6 lakh hectares across the state.

    What are the implications of the December 18 order? 

    • Conflict with the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 – The order contradicts the FRA, which was enacted to recognize and vest forest rights with gram sabhas. Instead, the decision shifts control from communities to the Forest Department.
    • Loss of Community Autonomy – Sacred groves, which have been traditionally protected by local communities, will now be governed by state authorities, potentially disrupting cultural conservation practices.
    • Potential Erosion of Traditional Governance Systems – The transfer of management could weaken customary laws and traditional conservation practices that have preserved these groves for generations.
    • Legal Precedence for Future Cases – By prioritizing the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, over the FRA, this order may set a precedent for other community-managed lands to be taken over by the Forest Department.
    • Impact on Livelihoods and Religious Practices – Communities that depend on sacred groves for religious, medicinal, and cultural purposes may face restrictions under the new classification as ‘community reserves’.

    What did T.N. Godavarman v. Union of India establish about the definition of ‘forest land’? 

    • Broad Definition: The Supreme Court established that ‘forest land’ includes not only areas understood as forests in the dictionary sense but also any area recorded as forest in government records, regardless of ownership.
    • Expert Committees: The ruling directed state governments to form expert committees to identify areas that fit this definition of ‘forest land’.

    How are sacred groves traditionally conserved by communities?

    • Watershed & Ecological Functions: Many sacred groves protect natural water sources, prevent soil erosion, and regulate local climate. Example: Orans (Rajasthan) – These groves support perennial water streams and serve as critical grazing lands for livestock.
    • Strict Protection through Customary Laws & Taboos: Communities impose strict prohibitions on tree felling, hunting, or resource extraction in sacred groves. Example: Sarpa Kavu (Kerala) – These groves are dedicated to serpent deities, and cutting trees is considered a bad omen.
    • Religious & Cultural Practices for Conservation: Rituals, festivals, and community prayers reinforce the spiritual importance of these groves. Example: Devara Kadu (Karnataka) – Annual worship ceremonies maintain local participation in conservation efforts.
    • Community Governance & Management: Local elders, priests, or village councils oversee the maintenance and enforcement of protection norms. Example: Jahera (Odisha, Chhattisgarh) – Tribal communities like the Gonds and Santhals manage these groves as sacred spaces.
    • Role in Biodiversity Preservation: The groves act as biodiversity hotspots, protecting endemic flora, fauna, and medicinal plants. Example: Law Kyntang (Meghalaya) – Khasi communities conserve these forests, which shelter rare orchids and medicinal herbs.

    Way forward:

    • Harmonizing Legal Frameworks – Amend policies to ensure the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, and Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, work in tandem, recognizing gram sabhas’ authority in managing sacred groves while ensuring ecological conservation.
    • Community-Centric Conservation – Strengthen traditional governance systems by legally empowering local communities to manage sacred groves, integrating scientific conservation methods with cultural practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the status of forest resources in India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)