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  • [pib] GARBH-Ini-DRISHTI: India’s First Ferret Research Facility

    Why in the News?

    India’s first Ferret Research Facility, GARBH-Ini-DRISHTI, was inaugurated at Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in Faridabad to boost vaccine development and infectious disease research.

    About GARBH-INi-DRISHTI

    • GARBH-INi-DRISHTI is a data repository and information-sharing hub designed to provide comprehensive clinical and biological insights into maternal and child health.
    • Developed under the GARBH-INi program, it is one of South Asia’s largest pregnancy cohort datasets, offering access to clinical data, medical images, and bio-specimens.
    • The platform includes data from over 12,000 pregnant women, newborns, and postpartum mothers, enabling extensive research into maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
    • It is a collaborative initiative, involving India’s top research institutions and hospitals, ensuring scientific synergy in maternal healthcare.
    • Aims:
      • To enhance maternal and neonatal healthcare research through large-scale data accessibility.
      • To support global researchers in conducting transformative studies that can improve birth outcomes.
      • To provide early insights into pregnancy-related complications, fostering better diagnostic and preventive measures.
      • To develop predictive tools for conditions like preterm birth, ensuring better maternal health interventions.
    • Features:
      • Comprehensive Data Repository: Houses clinical, imaging, and bio-specimen data from thousands of pregnant women and newborns.
      • Advanced Data Access: Researchers can explore detailed datasets to study pregnancy outcomes, foetal health, and postnatal development.
      • Secure and Controlled Access:  Provides clear guidance on data usage and approvals, ensuring ethical research practices.
      • Global Research Platform: Enables nationwide and international collaboration, allowing researchers to work on common healthcare challenges.
      • Supports Policy and Decision-Making:  The data can be leveraged to shape maternal health policies, improve diagnostic protocols, and design effective interventions.

  • Gyan Bharatam Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a comprehensive initiative for surveying, documenting, and conserving India’s manuscript heritage.

    What is Gyan Bharatam Mission?

    • It is a nationwide initiative launched in the Union Budget 2025-26 to survey, document, and conserve India’s manuscript heritage.
    • The mission aims to cover over one crore manuscripts, ensuring the systematic preservation of ancient texts housed in academic institutions, museums, libraries, and private collections.
    • It is a revival and expansion of the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM), which was originally established in 2003 but had limited impact due to inadequate funding and structural challenges.
    • The mission aligns with India’s broader cultural conservation goals and is expected to create a centralized repository for India’s rich textual and intellectual heritage.
    • Aims and Objectives:
      • Survey and document manuscripts across institutions and private collections.
      • Digitize rare texts and create a centralized repository for research and preservation.
      • Restore and conserve fragile manuscripts using modern preservation techniques.
    • Features and Significance:
      • Budget Allocation Increased:  Funding for NMM raised from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore.
      • Digital Preservation:  AI-driven archiving, metadata tagging, and translation tools for easy access.

    PYQ:

    [2023] With reference to Indian History, Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess and Walter Elliot were associated with (2023)

    (a) archaeological excavations

    (b) establishment of English Press in Colonial India

    (c) establishment of Churches in Princely States

    (d) construction of railways in Colonial India

  • [4th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Some wind behind the sails of India’s shipping industry

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017)

    Q) The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous co-ordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2022)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Sustainable Development (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2022), and Budget Initiatives (2017 and 2021).

    Currently, India holds only about 0.05% of the global market share in shipbuilding, significantly lower than competitors like China (47%), South Korea (30%), and Japan (17%). This disparity highlights that without addressing inefficiencies in container movement and logistics integration, infrastructure growth alone will not lead to meaningful progress.

    The editorial discusses the recent positive developments in India’s shipping industry, particularly following the government’s announcements in the Union Budget 2025-26. This content can be used to present challenges in the Maritime Sector.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Union Budget 2025-26 appears to have met most of the shipping industry’s demands; but it has missed an opportunity to address tax disparities.

     

    What specific government initiatives are being introduced to support the shipping industry?

    • Maritime Development Fund (MDF): This initiative is the establishment of a MDF with an initial corpus of ₹25,000 crore which aims to provide long-term financing for the shipbuilding and maritime sectors, facilitating investment and growth within the industry.
    • Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy: The government has announced a revamp of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) which aims to address cost disadvantages faced by domestic shipyards by providing direct financial subsidies, thereby encouraging local shipbuilding and enhancing competitiveness.
    • Customs Duty Exemptions and Incentives: This Budget extends customs duty exemptions on inputs and components used for manufacturing ships for more than 10 years.
      • Additionally, credit notes will be issued for shipbreaking activities, promoting a circular economy within the industry in order to make shipbuilding and recycling more competitive.
    • Extension of Tonnage Tax Scheme: The benefits of the existing tonnage tax scheme, which previously applied only to sea-going ships, will now be extended to inland vessels registered under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021.
      • This change aims to promote inland water transport and enhance the overall efficiency of the maritime sector.
    • Establishment of Shipbuilding Clusters: The Indian shipping industry has been advocating for the extension of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) for another 10 years under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047.
      • The government plans to facilitate the creation of shipbuilding clusters to increase capacity and capabilities in ship manufacturing.

    How can these initiatives impact India’s position in the global shipping market?

    • Enhanced Global Competitiveness: By establishing the Maritime Development Fund and revamping financial assistance policies, India aims to boost its shipbuilding capabilities and reduce costs associated with ship construction and repair.
      • This could elevate India’s ranking in global shipbuilding from 22nd to potentially within the top 10 by 2030 and top 5 by 2047, thereby increasing its share of global ship tonnage from less than 1% to around 5%.
    • Improved Infrastructure and Efficiency: The government’s focus on port modernization through initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030 is set to enhance port infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and multimodal connectivity.
      • These improvements will reduce turnaround times for vessels and lower logistics costs, making Indian ports more attractive for international shipping lines and increasing cargo handling capacity significantly.
    • Attracting Foreign Investment: With a favorable investment climate that allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in port development, India is positioned to attract significant foreign capital into its shipping sector.
      • This influx of investment can lead to technological advancements, better operational practices, and increased capacity, further solidifying India’s role as a key player in global maritime trade.

    What challenges does the Indian shipping industry face despite these positive developments?

    • High Costs and Financial Constraints: Indian shipyards face significant cost disadvantages compared to global competitors, particularly in terms of higher material and labor costs, as well as expensive financing options.
      • This results in a 25-30% cost disadvantage for Indian shipyards compared to those in countries like China and South Korea.
      • Additionally, the imposition of a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on ship imports, which is not refunded for international operations, further strains financial resources for shipping companies.

    Does the SARFAESI Act impact loan availability?

    • Under Section 31(d) of the SARFAESI Act, banks and financial institutions cannot create a security interest in vessels as defined by the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
    • This limitation means that lenders cannot easily seize and auction ships in case of loan defaults, which reduces their willingness to extend credit to shipowners.
    • The ongoing discussions about amending the SARFAESI Act to include provisions for ships indicate a recognition of these challenges.
    • By allowing banks to hold security interests in vessels, the government can enhance loan availability and create a more favorable environment for financing within the maritime sector.
    • Infrastructure Bottlenecks: Major Indian ports are grappling with issues such as congestion, inefficiency, and inadequate infrastructure to support increasing traffic volumes.
      • The growth in cargo traffic has outpaced the development of port facilities, leading to delays and higher operational costs.
      • For example, backlogs for rail freight have increased significantly, impacting the timely movement of goods.
      • Furthermore, labor strikes and outdated technology contribute to lower productivity at ports, making them less attractive to global shipping lines.
    • Dependence on Foreign Suppliers: Indian shipyards heavily rely on foreign suppliers for critical components and technology, which increases costs and complicates supply chains.
      • This dependency results in longer lead times for procurement and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions.
      • The lack of a robust domestic supply chain for high-tech maritime components further exacerbates these challenges, limiting the competitiveness of Indian shipbuilding firms.

    Way Forward:

    To realize its aspirations under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047, India must prioritize investments in infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and foster a skilled workforce.

    • The path forward requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to transform these challenges into opportunities for sustainable development in the maritime sector.
    • Establish a National Port Grid Authority to coordinate development across major and minor ports, promoting specialization and eliminating inter-port competition.
    • Implementing a hub-and-spoke model with mega ports acting as transshipment hubs can optimize cargo movement and efficiency.
    • Deploy Smart Port Infrastructure Management Systems (SPIMS) and introduce blockchain-based Port Community Systems to facilitate paperless and IoT based trade.

  • Second National Gene Bank

    Why in the News?

    As part of the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister announced the establishment of a second National Gene Bank in India.

    About the First National Gene Bank

    • Established in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi.
    • Functions as India’s primary facility for preserving plant genetic resources (PGRs) to safeguard biodiversity.
    • Operates through 12 regional stations across the country for collection and storage of vital crop germplasms.
    • Preserves 0.47 million accessions (plant material for breeding and research) as of January 15, 2025.
    • Maintains genetic resources using four conservation methods:
      • Seed Genebank (-18°C) – Stores seeds for long-term conservation.
      • Cryogenebank (-170°C to -196°C) – Preserves plant tissues in liquid nitrogen.
      • In-vitro Genebank (25°C) – Maintains plant cultures in controlled environments.
      • Field Genebank – Conserves live plants for breeding and research.
    • Protects diverse crop groups, including cereals, millets, legumes, oilseeds, and vegetables.

    About the Second National Gene Bank

    • It aims to store over 10 lakh germplasm lines to strengthen food and nutritional security.
    • It will complement the first National Gene Bank and expand genetic conservation capacity.
    • It is designed to support both public and private sectors in conserving genetic diversity.
    • Features and Significance:  
      • Largest conservation facility in India, expanding germplasm storage capacity beyond the existing 0.47 million accessions in the first gene bank.
      • Ensures germplasm accessibility for future generations, preventing genetic erosion due to habitat loss or overexploitation.
      • Protects India’s agricultural heritage by preserving native, traditional, and rare plant varieties.
      • Aligns with global conservation efforts, including India’s Seed Vault in Chang La (Ladakh) and the Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Norway).
      • Promotes ex-situ conservation, ensuring crop diversity for future breeding, research, and sustainable farming.

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of society?

  • NGT issues notice to Centre on use of invasive fish species for mosquito control

    Why in the News?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.

    Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).

    About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)

    • It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
    • The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
    • Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
    • It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
    • It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
    • The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.

    About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)

    • Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
    • It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
    • It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
    • Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
    • Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
    • While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.

    PYQ:

    [2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?

    (a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
    (b) Converting crop residues into packing material
    (c) Producing biodegradable plastics
    (d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass

  • [3rd February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Beyond tax cuts, a closer read of the Union Budget

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) One of the intended objectives of Union-Budget 15-18 is to ‘transform, energize and clean India’. Analyze the measures proposed in the Budget 15-18 to achieve the objective. (UPSC CSE 2017)

    Q) Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (UPSC CSE 2021)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Sustainable Development (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2022), and Budget Initiatives (2017 and 2021).

    The Union Budget 2024-25 presents a strategic framework aimed at fostering economic growth while addressing the needs of various sectors, particularly the middle class, agriculture, and employment. While efforts to streamline tax structures and reduce compliance burdens are positive, they must be accompanied by robust strategies to ensure sustainable growth and equitable distribution of resources.

    The editorial emphasizes the urgent need for decisive and equitable action in addressing inclusive and sustained growth. This content can be used to present challenges/criticism for the present Budget 2025-26 in your Mains Answers for Economy and Infrastructure.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Union Finance Minister presented the Union Budget on February 1, addressing significant economic challenges while outlining an ambitious plan for ‘Viksit Bharat’ that focuses on various sectors, which although requires careful evaluation.

     

    What are the key highlights from Budget 2025 that would raise the questions?

    • Fiscal Consolidation Target: This target aims to reduce the fiscal deficit from the previous year’s estimate of 4.9% and reflects the government’s commitment to managing public debt while balancing necessary public expenditures and economic growth challenges.
      • The Budget sets a Fiscal Consolidation Target of 4.4% of GDP for FY26, relying on optimistic revenue projections, including 11.2% growth in total tax revenues and 14.4% in income tax revenues, despite significant tax cuts and economic challenges.
    • Second Asset Monetisation Plan (2025-30): This plan aims to generate ₹10 lakh crore by monetizing government-owned assets. The proceeds from this monetization will be reinvested into new infrastructure projects.
      • Success of Second Asset Monetisation Plan (2025-30) after previous underperformance raises concerns, and ₹11.54 lakh crore in net market borrowings may crowd out private capital amid weak credit demand.
      • Additionally, the government has proposed ₹1.5 lakh crore in interest-free loans to states to further support capital expenditure and infrastructure reforms.
    • Personal Income Tax: The revisions in income tax rates that exempt incomes up to ₹12 lakh can lead to a loss of ₹1 lakh crore in direct tax revenue due to the following reasons:
    • Increased Exemptions: By exempting incomes up to ₹12 lakh, more individuals will not be liable to pay income tax, significantly reducing the overall tax base.
    • Reduced Tax Rates: The new tax regime includes lower tax rates for various income brackets, which means that even those who do pay taxes will contribute less than they would under the previous regime.
    • Impact on Government Revenue: The expected loss of ₹1 lakh crore in direct tax revenue will limit the government’s financial resources, constraining its ability to fund developmental initiatives and public services.
    • Declining Household Savings: As the government foregoes this revenue, it may struggle to maintain or increase public investments, which could exacerbate the already declining household savings rate, impacting long-term economic stability.
    • India’s Manufacturing Sector: The Budget aims to bolster India’s manufacturing sector, which currently contributes only 17% to the GDP, through various initiatives. However, significant challenges remain that could hinder the sector’s growth and competitiveness.
      • Regulatory Inefficiencies: By enhancing access to credit for MSMEs, the government aims to foster growth, but the existing regulatory framework often hampers business operations, leading to delays and increased costs that undermine competitiveness.
      • Low Innovation Capacity: The government has introduced PLIs targeting various sectors to encourage domestic production and attract foreign investment. However, the investment in R&D is critically low, currently at just 0.64% of GDP. This lack of focus on innovation limits the ability of Indian manufacturers to compete effectively.
      • Structural Weaknesses: The manufacturing sector has been plagued by structural weaknesses such as high costs of raw materials and logistics, which make it less competitive compared to other nations.
      • For example, steel prices in India are reported to be 20-30% higher than those in China.

    What are the gaps highlighted by the budget that need to be recognized in the Agricultural Sector?

    Significant Agricultural Initiatives taken by the Government in Budget 2025-26:

    1. Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana:

    • Objective: To enhance agricultural productivity and promote sustainable farming practices in 100 districts characterized by low productivity, moderate crop intensity, and below-average credit access.
    • The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 1.7 crore farmers by providing them with better financial support and resources. The program will be executed in partnership with state governments, leveraging existing schemes and specialized measures to drive focused reforms.
    • Key Focus Areas:
      • Introduce advanced farming techniques and modern equipment.
      • Encourage farmers to grow a variety of crops instead of relying on a single crop.
      • Develop storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels to reduce crop wastage.
      • Enhance irrigation infrastructure to increase agricultural output.
      • Facilitate easier access to both short-term and long-term credit for farmers.

    2. National Mission on High-Yielding Seeds:

    • Objective: This mission aims to improve the availability and use of high-yielding seed varieties to boost agricultural productivity across the country.
    • The mission emphasizes research and development in seed technology, ensuring that farmers have access to superior quality seeds that can lead to better crop yields.
    • It will work in conjunction with other agricultural programs, such as the Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, to maximize the impact on food security and farmer income.

    3. Increased Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Limit:

    • The loan limit for KCC has been raised from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, along with targeted support in 100 low-productivity districts, indicating a shift from blanket subsidies to more precise financial assistance for farmers.
    • Short-Term Loan Focus: The emphasis on credit enhancements primarily through short-term loans may perpetuate farmers’ dependency on debt without resolving underlying issues.
      • Systemic inefficiencies in agricultural markets remain unaddressed, particularly regarding price volatility and market access.
    • Missed Export Opportunities: The lack of concrete measures to promote agricultural exports, especially as India aims to lead in millets and natural farming, represents a significant missed opportunity.
      • Services exports, particularly in IT and business process outsourcing, are growing robustly at a 10.5% CAGR, but efforts to diversify the export portfolio are lacking.
      • While initiatives like Bharat Trade Net (BTN) and export credit support for MSMEs are positive, they lack the scale necessary to effectively address India’s ongoing trade deficits.
      • The depreciation of the rupee and declining foreign exchange reserves highlight the need for a more ambitious export strategy.
      • A fiscal push toward value-added sectors such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, renewable energy, and high-value agricultural products could enhance India’s position in global supply chains and improve export competitiveness.

    What are the questions raised on other transformative and sustainable pushes?

    • Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling: Ace Green Recycling plans to establish India’s largest lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery recycling facility in Gujarat, with a capacity of 10,000 metric tons per year by 2026. 
    • Incentives for Clean Tech Manufacturing: The Budget introduces tax benefits and policy extensions aimed at supporting electric vehicle (EV) startups and clean tech manufacturing. This includes exemptions on cobalt powder and lithium-ion battery scrap from basic Customs Duty, which is expected to strengthen India’s battery recycling ecosystem.
    • Despite these initiatives, the transition to a low-carbon economy remains fragmented due to insufficient investment in essential areas like grid modernization and energy storage.
    • To achieve a successful transition to a low-carbon economy, India needs a more integrated approach that includes substantial investments in energy infrastructure alongside the current recycling initiatives.
      • For example, enhancing energy storage capabilities is crucial for managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.

    Way Forward:

    • While the Budget lays a promising foundation for economic progress, it requires a comprehensive approach that not only focuses on immediate tax relief but also addresses long-term challenges in productivity, innovation, and market access.
    • The success of these initiatives will be measured by their ability to create lasting benefits for all segments of society, driving India toward its vision of a prosperous and inclusive economy.

  • Inland Mangrove of Guneri

    Why in the News?

    The Gujarat government has declared the Guneri Inland Mangrove in Kutch as the state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) under The Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

    Inland Mangrove of Guneri

    Quick Facts about Mangroves in India:

    • “Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems” report released on May 22 (International Day for Biodiversity), 2024.
    • India holds 3% of South Asia’s total mangrove cover.
    • Mangrove cover increased by 54 sq km (1.10%), reaching 4,975 sq km (0.15% of India’s total area).
    • West Bengal leads (42.45%), followed by Gujarat (23.66%) and Andaman & Nicobar Islands (12.39%).
    • South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, alone contributes 41.85% of India’s mangrove cover, including Sundarbans National Park.
    • Gujarat recorded the highest increase, adding 37 sq km of mangrove cover.

    About Guneri Inland Mangroves:

    • Guneri Inland Mangroves (32.78 hectares) are a rare and unique mangrove ecosystem located in Kutch district, Gujarat.
    • It is India’s last remaining inland mangrove site and one of only eight such sites globally.
    • Unlike coastal mangroves, which thrive in tidal zones, Guneri mangroves exist inland without direct seawater contact.
    • These mangroves have historical and ecological significance, possibly originating after the Miocene marine transgression or forming along the banks of the ancient Saraswati River in the Great Rann of Kutch.

    Geographical Features:

    • It is located about 45 km from the Arabian Sea and 4 km from Kori Creek.
    • Terrain:
      • Flat land, unlike coastal mangroves that grow in muddy, tidal zones.
      • Devoid of sludge, making it resemble a forest rather than a typical mangrove swamp.
    • Water Source:
      • Thrives on limestone deposits, which help retain groundwater to sustain the mangroves.
      • No direct tidal water influx, relying entirely on underground water connectivity.
    • Biodiversity:
      • Home to 20 migratory bird species and 25 resident migratory avifaunal species.
      • Functions as a vital habitat for local and seasonal wildlife.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest?

    (a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh

    (b) South-West Bengal

    (c) Southern Saurashtra

    (d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

  • Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme

    Why in the News?

    In the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister, has introduced the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital textbooks in Indian languages.

    What is Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme?

    • Aims and Objectives:
      • It will provide digital textbooks and study resources for students at the school and university levels, promoting regional languages in the education system.
      • The scheme aims to bridge the language gap by providing digital textbooks and study materials in multiple Indian languages.
      • It ensures that students from diverse linguistic backgrounds can study subjects in their mother tongue, improving comprehension and retention.
    • It aligns with the NEP 2020 vision to promote multilingualism in education.
    • It complements the ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing) initiative.
      • 22,000 books in Indian languages will be developed in the next five years under ASMITA.

    Criteria and Provisions:

    • The scheme will be implemented in schools, colleges, and universities across India.
    • Institutions affiliated with UGC, AICTE, and other regulatory bodies will be part of the initiative.
    • The scheme will focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Social Sciences, Commerce, and Humanities.
    • Special emphasis on technical education in Indian languages.
    • The digital books will be available on government-supported e-learning platforms like DIKSHA, e-PG Pathshala, and National Digital Library of India.
    • AI-based tools will be used to facilitate translations, voice-assisted learning, and personalized study materials.

    PYQ:

    [2016] ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at:

    (a) Promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas

    (b) Providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs

    (c) Promoting the education and health of adolescent girls

    (d) Providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free

  • [pib] What is Geo-Economic Fragmentation?

    Why in the News?

    The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights the shift from globalization to geo-economic fragmentation (GEF). Countries are now forming economic blocs, with concepts like “friend-shoring” gaining prominence.

    What is Geo-Economic Fragmentation (GEF)?

    • GEF refers to the breakdown of global economic integration, caused by strategic national policies.
    • It involves disruptions in trade, capital flows, foreign direct investment (FDI), and migration.
    • The shift resembles the Cold War era, with countries aligning into economic blocs.
    • Western nations’ imposition of uniform environmental, labor, and social standards has fueled economic divisions.
    • The World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Monitoring Report (October 2024) recorded:
      • 169 new trade-restrictive measures, affecting $887.7 billion worth of trade.
      • A sharp rise from $337.1 billion in 2023, reflecting escalating protectionism.
    • The IMF notes that trade fragmentation today is costlier than during the Cold War, when global trade was just 16% of GDP.
      • Today, it is 45%, making economic isolation riskier.

    Significance and Impacts of GEF:

    • Decline of Global Trade: WTO reported 169 new trade restrictions covering $887.7 billion in 2023-24, making trade costlier.
    • FDI Relocation: Friend-shoring is concentrating FDI among geopolitically aligned nations, reducing capital for emerging economies.
    • China’s Economic Dominance: Controls 80% of solar panels, 80% of batteries, and 60% of wind energy, reshaping supply chains.
    • Supply Chain Disruptions: Firms are shifting from China to India, Vietnam, and Mexico to diversify risks.
    • Emerging Market Challenges: Increased trade barriers, inflation, and tech restrictions slow down growth.
    • Rise in Economic Nationalism: Nations are prioritizing domestic industries, energy security, and localized production over global collaboration.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India.

    [2017] Which of the following has/have occurred in India after its liberalization of economic policies in 1991?

    1. Share of agriculture in GDP increased enormously.

    2. Share of India’s exports in world trade increased.

    3. FDI inflows increased.

    4. India’s foreign exchange reserves increased enormously.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 4 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • India is heading into a middle income trap

    Why in the News?

    Ahead of the Union Budget, the Congress released a report on January 30, 2025, saying that India is at risk of getting stuck in the middle-income trap.  

    What is the classification of Countries given by the World Bank?

    The World Bank classifies countries into four income groups based on their Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.  

    • Low-Income Countries: These are nations with a GNI per capita of $1,145 or less. This group typically includes countries facing significant economic challenges and lower levels of development.
    • Lower-Middle-Income Countries: Countries in this category have a GNI per capita ranging from $1,146 to $4,515. This group often includes emerging economies that are in the process of development but still face various socio-economic issues.
    • Upper-Middle-Income Countries: This classification includes countries with a GNI per capita between $4,516 and $14,005. These nations generally have more developed economies and better infrastructure compared to lower-middle-income countries.
    • High-Income Countries: These are countries with a GNI per capita exceeding $14,005. This group includes the most developed economies with high standards of living and advanced infrastructure.

    What factors contribute to India being at risk of falling into a middle-income trap?

    • Low GDP Growth: India’s projected GDP growth rate for 2024-25 is around 6.4%, significantly lower than the 8% needed to leverage its demographic dividend effectively, indicating a slowdown in economic momentum.
    • Food Inflation Concerns: Despite the overall decline in inflation, food inflation remains a challenge, rising from 7.5% in FY24 to 8.4% in the same period due to supply chain disruptions and adverse weather conditions. 
    • Private Sector Investment: Despite corporate tax cuts, private sector investment has not significantly increased. The Economic Survey 2024-25 indicates that Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF), a crucial indicator of investment activity, slowed to 5.4% in the recent quarter, reflecting a decline in private capital expenditure.
    • Government Capital Expenditure: The survey notes that government capital expenditure utilization was only 37.3% in the first half of FY25, down from 49% the previous year, which has contributed to the overall slowdown in investments.
    • Low Incomes: A significant portion of India’s population lives on extremely low incomes, with estimates suggesting that about 50% of the population earns between ₹100 and ₹150 per day. This level of income severely limits consumer spending capacity and economic growth potential.

    How does the current economic policy framework address the challenges? (Way forward)

    • Next-Generation Reforms: The Union Budget 2024-25 emphasizes “Next Generation Reforms” aimed at enhancing productivity and market efficiency across various sectors. 
      • This includes a comprehensive Economic Policy Framework that focuses on improving factors of production land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship while leveraging technology to reduce inequality and boost economic growth.
    • Deregulation and Economic Freedom: The Economic Survey highlights the need for deregulation and grassroots reforms to enhance the competitiveness of the economy. It advocates for greater economic freedom, allowing individuals and organizations to pursue legitimate economic activities without excessive regulatory burdens.  
    • Public-Private Partnerships and Infrastructure Investment: The framework encourages public-private partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure projects, facilitating greater collaboration between the government and private sector. 
      • By removing policy hurdles and providing upfront support for long-term projects, the government aims to attract patient capital necessary for sustainable development, which is critical for addressing current economic challenges

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments. (UPSC IAS/2019)