💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3

  • RBI Launches ‘.bank.in’ Domain to Combat Digital Payment Frauds

    Why in the News?

    To tackle the increasing number of digital payment frauds, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced the exclusive ‘.bank.in’ domain for Indian banks.

    About the ‘.bank.in’ Domain

    • The ‘.bank.in’ domain was introduced in February 2025 to provide Indian banks with a unique online address, reducing the risk of fraudulent websites mimicking bank domains.
    • It will be operationalised by the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), under National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) oversight.
    • The ‘.in’ Code Top-Level Domain (ccTLD) is India’s national identifier on the internet.
    • This domain adds an extra layer of trust, distinguishing legitimate banks from fraudulent entities.
    • The IDRBT, operating under MeitY, has been authorised as the exclusive registrar for this domain.
    • All banks in India must transition to this by October 31, 2025, with both old and new domains likely in use during the transition period.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements: The Reserve Bank of India’s recent directives relating to ‘Storage of Payment System Data’, popularly known as data diktat, command the payment system providers that

    1. they shall ensure that entire data relating to payment systems operated by them are stored in a system only in India

    2. they shall ensure that the systems are owned and operated by public sector enterprises

    3. they shall submit the consolidated system audit report to the Comptroller and Auditor General of India by the end of the calendar

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

  • Similipal to be 107th National Park of India

    Why in the News?

    The Odisha government has notified Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) as a national park, covering 845.70 sq/km. It is the 107th national park and the second in eastern Odisha, following Bhitarkanika.

    Similipal to be 107th National Park of India

    About Similipal National Park:

    • Situated in the Mayurbhanj district of northern Odisha, Similipal is surrounded by high plateaus and hills.
    • It includes the Khairiburu and Meghashini peaks, rising to 1,515 meters above sea level.
    • The park has a diverse terrain with hills, open grasslands, and wooded areas, supporting various species.
    • Flora: The park is home to 1,078 plant species, including 94 species of orchids, with Sal trees dominating the forests.
    • Fauna: It boasts diverse wildlife, including leopards, gaurs, elephants, sloth bears, and pangolins. Similipal also supports migratory birds like Bar-headed geese and Brahmini ducks.
    • Several indigenous tribes inhabit the region, such as Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, and Khadia.
    • Similipal was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956, included under Project Tiger in 1973, and became a Biosphere Reserve in 2009.

    Melanistic Tigers of Similipal:

    • Similipal is home to the world’s only wild population of pseudo-melanistic tigers, with 13 known to inhabit the area.
    • These tigers have a distinct appearance due to higher melanin levels, causing a unique, black-striped coat.
    • The mutation in the Taqpep gene makes these tigers pseudo-melanistic.
    [UPSC 2012] Consider the following protected areas; 1. Bandipur 2. Bhitarkanika 3. Manas 4. Sundarbans

    Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 Only (b) 1, 3 and 4 Only* (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1,2, 3 and 4

     

  • New RNA-Based Approach to Combat Plant Viruses

    Why in the News?

    Recently, a team of scientists from Germany reported a breakthrough in combating the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) through an innovative RNA-based antiviral agent.

    About Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV):

    • CMV is one of the most widespread and destructive plant viruses, affecting over 1,200 plant species, including important food crops such as cucumbers, melons, and cereals.
    • The virus is transmitted by aphids, tiny insects that spread the virus as they feed on plants, making outbreaks difficult to control.
    • In India, CMV causes significant yield losses in crops like bananas, pumpkins, and cucumbers, leading to mosaic discoloration, stunted growth, and unviable fruits.
    • The economic impact of CMV includes both direct financial losses from reduced crop yields and the indirect costs of pest management.

    RNA Silencing Methods discussed (HIGS vs SIGS): 

    RNA silencing is a natural defense mechanism that plants use to protect themselves from viral infections.

    Two RNA-based technologies, Host-Induced Gene Silencing (HIGS) and Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS), have been developed to enhance plant immunity against diseases like CMV.

    [1] Host-Induced Gene Silencing (HIGS):

    • HIGS involves genetically modifying plants to produce dsRNA, which activates the plant’s immune system to fight off the virus.
    • This method provides continuous protection and long-term immunity throughout the plant’s lifecycle.
    • However, it faces challenges such as regulatory issues, high production costs, and the potential for viruses to evolve resistance over time.

    [2] Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS):

    • SIGS, unlike HIGS, does not require genetic modification. Instead, plants are treated with RNA sprays containing dsRNA that targets specific viruses.
    • This method is cost-effective, non-GMO, and can be applied to a variety of crops.
    • However, SIGS provides short-term protection, may be ineffective due to random RNA mixtures, and its effectiveness can be reduced by environmental factors such as sunlight, rain, and soil microbes.
    [UPSC 2019] RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?

    1. It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.

    2. It can be used in developing therapies for-the treatment of cancer.

    3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.

    4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 4* (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1 and 4 only

     

  • A chance for India’s creative ecosystem to make waves

    Why in the News?

    Despite global trade challenges and stock market fluctuations, India remains a strong and resilient economy. By using its young population and technological strengths, India has the potential to turn difficulties into opportunities. With its rich tradition of storytelling, India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector aims to connect creators around the world through the vision of ‘Create in India, Create for the World.’

    What is the vision behind India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector as outlined in the WAVES 2025 initiative?

    • Global Creative Leadership: India aims to emerge as a ‘Creative Powerhouse’, encouraging the creation of world-class content that resonates globally through the ‘Create in India, Create for the World’ vision. Eg: Namit Malhotra’s DNEG delivered Oscar-winning VFX for Dune 2, showcasing India’s global capability.
    • Fostering Innovation and Startups: The vision promotes a vibrant M&E startup ecosystem through WAVEX—offering funding, mentorship, and exposure in areas like gaming, AR/VR, animation, and AI. Eg: WAVEX supports startups like Erucanavis Technologies (AI-driven ads) and Amaze Studios (VR storytelling).
    • Cultural and Technological Synergy: It seeks to blend India’s rich cultural heritage with digital innovation, empowering young creators and expanding India’s influence in entertainment, education, and digital media. Eg: InscapeXR uses immersive media to transform learning experiences through storytelling.

    Who are some notable contributors and startups exemplifying India’s growing influence in the global creative industry?

    • DNEG (Namit Malhotra): India’s presence in high-end global cinema has grown significantly. Eg: DNEG, led by Namit Malhotra, delivered Oscar-winning VFX for Dune 2, showcasing India’s prowess in visual effects and animation.
    • Erucanavis Technologies: Innovation in ad-tech is pushing the boundaries of user interaction. Eg: Erucanavis is developing AI-driven playable ads, transforming digital advertising formats globally.
    • Lapwing Studios: Women-led creative startups are gaining recognition and scale. Eg: Lapwing Studios is supported under WAVEX, promoting inclusivity in India’s Media & Entertainment sector.
    • Amaze Studios: New-age storytelling formats are reshaping viewer experiences. Eg: Amaze Studios focuses on immersive storytelling through VR and animation, enhancing narrative depth.
    • InscapeXR: Ed-tech is merging with creative media to revolutionize learning. Eg: InscapeXR uses extended reality (XR) to create immersive educational content, blending creativity with pedagogy.

    How does WAVEX aim to support and scale startups in India’s creative economy?

    • Mentorship: WAVEX connects startups with industry leaders for strategic guidance and capacity building Eg: Startups like Vygr Media gain mentorship on scaling content for global audiences.
    • Funding Access: It facilitates financial support to overcome capital barriers for creative ventures. Eg: Women-led startups such as Lapwing Studios receive funding through WAVEX platforms.
    • Global Exposure: WAVEX offers international visibility and networking with global investors and buyers. Eg: Over 5,900 buyers at the WAVES Bazaar help startups like Amaze Studios find global partners.
    • Tech Integration: It supports innovation in tech-driven media fields like AR/VR, AI, and the metaverse. Eg: Erucanavis Technologies is leveraging WAVEX support to expand AI-based playable ads.
    • Inclusive Ecosystem: WAVEX promotes diversity by uplifting women-led and regional startups in M&E. Eg: Initiatives like Vision Impact promote inclusive ed-tech innovation through immersive storytelling.

    Why is India uniquely positioned to become a global creative powerhouse?

    • Demographic Dividend: India has a large, young population that fuels creativity and innovation across media sectors. Eg: WAVEX connects this youthful energy with global platforms to scale creative startups.
    • Technological Capability: India has strong digital infrastructure and IT expertise that power cutting-edge content creation. Eg: DNEG, led by Namit Malhotra, delivered Oscar-winning VFX in Dune 2, showcasing India’s tech strength.
    • Cultural Heritage: A rich legacy of storytelling, arts, and performance adds depth to creative expression. Eg: From classical dance to comics, Indian creators blend tradition with modern formats.
    • Government Support: Policy initiatives like WAVES 2025 foster a robust startup ecosystem for M&E. Eg: WAVEX provides funding, mentorship, and exposure to startups in AR/VR and AI-driven media.
    • Global Vision: India is aiming to create content not just for domestic audiences, but for the world. Eg: The ‘Create in India, Create for the World’ initiative positions India as a content export hub.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Access to Capital and Funding: Many startups in India’s creative sector face difficulty in securing adequate funding and investment. Despite government support through initiatives like Start-up India, access to venture capital and global investors remains a challenge for emerging companies. Eg: Small animation studios or VR companies, such as Amaze Studios, often struggle to scale due to limited financial resources.
    • Infrastructure Gaps: While the government has made significant strides in developing digital infrastructure, there are still gaps in areas like high-quality production facilities, broadband connectivity, and tech training centers. Smaller cities and rural areas, in particular, face challenges in accessing the necessary resources to contribute to the global creative industry. Eg: The lack of advanced digital infrastructure in tier-2 cities restricts the growth of tech-driven creative startups.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Funding Support and Investment Channels: Strengthen access to venture capital and government-backed funding, especially for emerging creative startups, through dedicated investment platforms and incentives. Eg: Expanding initiatives like Start-up India to include sector-specific funding for M&E startups in animation, AR/VR, and AI.
    • Improved Infrastructure and Regional Connectivity: Invest in high-quality production facilities, fast-track broadband connectivity, and tech training programs across tier-2 cities and rural areas to bridge the infrastructure gap. Eg: Setting up regional M&E hubs outside major cities to create localized opportunities for tech-driven creative startups.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.

    Linkage: The “A chance for India’s creative ecosystem to make waves” text highlights the shift from traditional film-making to digital production and the role of technology like AI and VR/AR in the M&E sector. This PYQ on digitalisation is relevant as the growth of the creative ecosystem is heavily reliant on digital infrastructure and technologies.

  • “Revive Our Ocean” Initiative

    Why in the News?

    A new global initiative called ‘Revive Our Ocean’ was launched with the goal of scaling up effective, community-led marine protected areas (MPAs) to boost marine conservation efforts.

    About the Revive Our Ocean Initiative:

    • It is a global effort to enhance marine ecosystem protection through community-led Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
    • It was launched by David Attenborough, Dynamic Planet, and National Geographic’s Pristine Seas to scale up MPAs, empowering coastal communities to lead conservation efforts.
    • The goal is to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030, aligning with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
    • Initially focused on 7 countries: UK, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Philippines, Indonesia, and Mexico, using successful MPA models.
    • It emphasizes economic benefits of MPAs, such as generating €16 million annually from diving tourism in Medes Island, Spain.

    Back2Basics: Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)

    • KMGBF was adopted in December 2022, the KMGBF aims to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and ensure human-nature harmony by 2050.
    • It replaces the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and is often referred to as the “Paris Agreement for Nature“, with 196 countries adopting it.
    • The framework sets a 30×30 target, aiming to protect 30% of global land and marine areas by 2030 and restore ecosystems.
    • It focuses on halting species extinction, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
    • Other targets include reducing pesticide and nutrient pollution, minimising harmful waste, and promoting urban green spaces.

     

    [UPSC 2012] The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this phenomenon a cause of concern?

    1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected.

    2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be adversely affected.

    3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected.

    4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be adversely affected.

    Which among the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only* (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • DRDO achieves milestone in Scramjet Hypersonic Engine Development

    Why in the News?

    The DRDO Laboratory (DRDL), located in Hyderabad, successfully demonstrated long-duration Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor ground testing for over 1,000 seconds.

    About Hypersonic Cruise Missiles:

    • Hypersonic cruise missiles are advanced weapons capable of travelling at speeds greater than Mach 5 (approximately 6,100 km/h), making them 5x faster than the speed of sound.
    • These missiles use Scramjets (Supersonic Combustion Ramjets) powered by atmospheric oxygen, making them more efficient for long-duration travel compared to traditional missiles that carry their own oxidizers.
    • They maintain high speeds and are highly manoeuvrable, making them difficult to intercept by current missile defense systems.
    • They can strike targets at long ranges with minimal warning and penetrate advanced defense shields.

    DRDO’s Achievement:

    • The DRDO successfully conducted long-duration Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor ground testing for over 1,000 seconds.
    • This test advances India’s capability to develop hypersonic cruise missiles, validating the design of the scramjet combustor and the test facility, both crucial for developing air-breathing propulsion systems.
    • This paves the way for full-scale flight-worthy combustor testing, bringing India closer to developing functional hypersonic missiles and enhancing its defense capabilities.
    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:

    1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.

    2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2*

     

  • India to ban Chlorpyrifos  

    Why in the News?

    Policymakers and scientists are set to gather in Geneva for the Conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions.

    India’s Pesticide Action Network will advocate for a global ban on Chlorpyrifos, a toxic pesticide still in use despite being banned in over 40 countries.

    About Chlorpyrifos:

    • Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate pesticide used to control pests, including insects, fungi, and weeds on crops like corn, soybeans, and fruits, as well as non-crop areas like turf and buildings.
    • It disrupts the nervous system of pests by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme critical for nerve function, causing paralysis and death in pests.
    • Despite being banned in over 40 countries due to its environmental and health risks, it continues to be used in many countries, including India.

    Chlorpyrifos in India:

    • Not entirely banned in India; It is registered under the Insecticides Act of 1968, with restrictions such as a ban on its use on ber, citrus, and tobacco (as per a 2023 notification).
    • But it is also used on other crops, including rice, cotton, groundnut, and onion.
    • India is one of the largest producers and exporters of Chlorpyrifos globally.

    Threats Posed by Chlorpyrifos:

    • Human Health Risks: Linked to nervous system issues, developmental disorders in children, cancer, and liver/kidney damage.
    • Environmental Impact: Highly toxic to aquatic life and pollinators like bees.
    • Soil & Crop Contamination: Persistent in the environment, leading to pesticide residue in the food chain.
    • Biodiversity Loss: Affects non-target species, disrupting ecosystems.
    • Resistance: Overuse leads to pesticide resistance, requiring more harmful chemicals for pest control.
    [UPSC 2019] In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as-

    Options: (a) pesticides in agriculture * (b) preservatives in processed foods (c) fruit-ripening agents (d) moisturising agents in cosmetics

     

  • [pib] Measuring Helium Abundance in the Sun

    Why in the News?

    Researchers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have successfully estimated the abundance of Helium in the Sun’s photosphere with precision for the first time.

    [pib] Measuring Helium Abundance in the Sun

    About Helium in the Sun’s Photosphere:

    • Helium is the second most abundant element in the Sun after Hydrogen and plays a key role in understanding solar composition, opacity, and energy transport.
    • However, measuring its precise abundance in the Sun’s photosphere has been challenging due to the absence of observable Helium spectral lines in visible light.
    • Traditionally, Helium abundance was estimated using indirect methods like extrapolating data from hotter stars, solar wind observations, and seismological studies of the Sun’s interior.
    • These methods lacked direct photospheric observations, making the estimates less accurate.
    • Accurate measurements of Helium are essential for modelling the Sun’s opacity and energy transport. This also has broader implications for understanding the composition of other stars.

    Novel Method Recently Discovered:

    • Researchers from the IIA introduced a novel method to directly estimate Helium abundance in the Sun’s photosphere.
    • This technique uses spectral features from Magnesium (Mg) and Carbon (C), overcoming the challenge of no direct Helium spectral lines.
    • Spectral lines from Mg, C, and hydrogenated molecules (MgH, CH, C2) were used to infer Helium abundance.
    • Equivalent Width analyses and spectrum synthesis techniques helped model the behavior of these elements in varying Helium-to-Hydrogen ratios.
    • The Helium-to-Hydrogen ratio in the Sun’s photosphere was found to be 0.1, consistent with previous studies. This confirms the validity of the new method.
    [UPSC 2023] Diffusion of light in the atmosphere takes place due to:

    Options: (a) Carbon dioxide (b) Dust particles* (c) Helium (d) Water vapors

     

  • [24th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Responding to the terror attack in Pahalgam

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Linkage: The Pahalgam attack occurred in Jammu and Kashmir. This question directly addresses strategies for building trust and resolving conflict in terrorism-affected regions, which is a crucial aspect of responding to such attacks in the long term.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, is not just an act of violence; it’s a calculated political move, carefully timed to cause both human casualties and strategic disruption. The attack took place shortly after the Kashmir Valley started welcoming tourists for the season and while U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance was visiting India. This is not a random attack, but part of a long-standing pattern of cross-border terrorism supported by Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies. At a time when Pakistan had faded from India’s diplomatic focus, it has now returned, aiming to disrupt what India holds dear.

    Today’s editorial analyzes the recent terrorist attack in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This discussion will be useful for GS Paper 2 on International Relations and GS Paper 3 on Border Management.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked a group of tourists in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing dozens and injuring many others. This was the first major attack on civilians in Kashmir since the government removed the region’s special status in 2019.

    Why is the Pahalgam attack seen as a political signal beyond terrorism?

    • Strategic Timing: The attack was carefully timed to coincide with major diplomatic events, aiming to internationalize the Kashmir issue and undermine India’s global image. Eg: It occurred during U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance’s visit to India, drawing global attention and signaling instability in Kashmir.
    • Undermining Normalcy: Targeting a tourist destination was meant to damage the perception of peace, hurt local livelihoods, and instill fear among potential visitors. Eg: The attack happened in Baisaran near Pahalgam, a scenic spot often described as ‘mini Switzerland’, during peak tourism season.
    • Proxy Warfare: It reflects Pakistan’s continued reliance on non-state actors to wage asymmetric warfare against India while maintaining deniability. Eg: The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and ISI, claimed responsibility—mirroring past attacks like the 2019 Pulwama bombing.

    What intelligence and security lapses does the attack reveal?

    • Failure of Local Intelligence Gathering: Security forces lacked timely and actionable intelligence about militant movement in a high-tourist zone. Eg: Despite a large number of tourists in Pahalgam, there were no alerts about possible threats in the area prior to the attack.
    • Inadequate Perimeter Surveillance: The attackers exploited gaps in area surveillance and patrol routines around tourist spots. Eg: The militants attacked near Baisaran meadow—an open and vulnerable area with limited surveillance despite being a tourist hotspot.
    • Weak Coordination Among Agencies: Lack of seamless coordination between intelligence, police, and paramilitary forces led to poor threat anticipation and response. Eg: Local police reportedly had not received central alerts, reflecting weak inter-agency information sharing.
    • Overreliance on Static Security Checks: Security was concentrated at checkpoints, but attackers used off-road routes to bypass these. Eg: Militants avoided heavily guarded roads and struck a moving vehicle, indicating knowledge of patrol patterns.
    • Neglect of Civilian Vulnerability Mapping: No dynamic assessment of soft targets such as unescorted tourist groups in sensitive areas. Eg: The victims were on a pony ride, unprotected, with no security escort in a forested zone open to ambush.

    How does Pakistan’s instability under Gen. Munir fuel cross-border terrorism?

    • Military-Civil Power Struggle: The weakening of civilian institutions and dominance of the military creates an environment where the Army uses external conflicts to maintain control. Eg: Gen. Munir’s growing influence post-Imran Khan’s ousting has coincided with increased militant activity in Kashmir to divert attention from domestic unrest.
    • Use of Terrorism as Strategic Depth: The Pakistani military views proxy groups as tools to counterbalance India without engaging in direct war. Eg: Groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have resurged in training and logistics activities near the LoC.
    • Diverting Attention from Internal Crises: Facing economic collapse and political chaos, Pakistan’s deep state stokes tensions with India to unify the populace and distract from internal failures. Eg: After IMF bailout troubles and mass protests, there was a spike in infiltration attempts into J&K.
    • Weak Civilian Oversight on Terror Networks: Political instability weakens civilian checks on terror outfits, allowing the military and ISI to operate with impunity. Eg: Banned terror outfits continue to function under new names and operate training camps openly in PoK and Punjab regions.
    • ISI’s Tactical Shift Toward Lone Wolf or Hybrid Militants: The ISI, under Munir’s tenure as ex-ISI chief, has adapted to deploy hard-to-trace, localised operatives, making it harder for India to track networks. Eg: Attacks like Pahalgam have shown signs of hybrid militancy—locals radicalised online but supported logistically from across the border.

    How can India align its external stance with internal outreach in Kashmir?

    • Promote Development as a Security Strategy: Emphasize infrastructure, education, and employment to win hearts locally and showcase progress internationally. Eg: The Srinagar Smart City project and new medical colleges can be highlighted in diplomatic forums to counter negative narratives.
    • Empower Local Governance: Strengthen democratic institutions like Panchayats and urban bodies to demonstrate political normalization. Eg: Conducting timely local body elections and empowering DDCs reflects ground-level participation, reinforcing India’s democratic image globally.
    • Consistent Narrative Management: Maintain a unified communication strategy to counter misinformation from hostile actors. Eg: India’s MEA and J&K administration issuing joint statements during crises can reduce confusion and reinforce India’s position internationally.
    • Engage Diaspora and Global Media: Leverage Indian diaspora and media outreach to project a balanced narrative on Kashmir reforms and security. Eg: Indian embassies organizing Kashmir-focused briefings in the US/EU to highlight post-Article 370 investments and peace-building.
    • Cultural and Religious Diplomacy: Promote Kashmir’s syncretic traditions like Sufism to counter radical narratives. Eg: Organizing international Sufi festivals or Buddhist circuit promotion in Ladakh can portray Kashmir as culturally inclusive and peaceful.

    What steps has taken by the Indian Government?

    • Diplomatic Measures: India has downgraded its diplomatic and logistical ties with Pakistan.Eg: The Indus Waters Treaty has been suspended, the Attari-Wagah border crossing has been closed, and Pakistani defense advisors have been expelled. Additionally, Pakistani nationals in India under regional visas have been given 48 hours to leave, and India’s embassy staff in Islamabad has been reduced.
    • Security Enhancements: The Indian government has increased security measures in Jammu and Kashmir. Eg: Security forces are conducting a major manhunt in the region to apprehend the perpetrators of the attack. The government is also reviewing and strengthening security protocols to prevent future incidents.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Security Infrastructure: Strengthen intelligence networks and surveillance systems in vulnerable regions like Jammu and Kashmir to preempt cross-border terrorism and ensure rapid response capabilities.
    • Diplomatic Pressure on Pakistan: Intensify international diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan by leveraging global platforms, pressing for accountability, and fostering stronger alliances to counter terrorism.

  • Air pollution in India — where does it come from?

    Why in the News?

    Millions of people die early because of dirty air. But where does this air pollution come from?

    Where do the majority of sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions in India come from?

    • Energy Production: The largest source of sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions in India is energy production, primarily from coal-fired power plants. Eg, coal contains sulphur impurities that are released when it is burned, contributing significantly to SO2 pollution.
    • Industrial Activities: Industries like cement production, steel manufacturing, and chemical plants also release SO2. Eg, the cement industry, which uses fossil fuels, is a major emitter of this pollutant.

    What are the main sources of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions?

    • Transportation: The largest source of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions is transportation, particularly from the exhaust of cars and trucks. Eg, diesel-powered vehicles, which burn fuel less efficiently, produce higher NOx emissions.
    • Energy Production: The burning of coal and gas for electricity generation also significantly contributes to NOx emissions. Eg, power plants that burn coal release large amounts of NOx during the combustion process.
    • Industrial Activities: Industrial processes such as manufacturing and chemical production also emit NOx. Eg, refineries and other heavy industries use high-temperature processes that release NOx as a byproduct.

    What sectors are the biggest contributors to methane (CH4) emissions?

    • Agriculture: The largest source of methane emissions, particularly from livestock digestion (enteric fermentation) and rice paddies. Eg, cows and other ruminants produce methane during digestion, and flooded rice fields emit methane as organic matter decomposes anaerobically.
    • Waste Management: Methane is released from organic waste decomposing in landfills under anaerobic conditions. Eg, food waste rotting in landfills produces significant methane emissions.
    • Fossil Fuel Extraction: Methane is emitted during the extraction, transport, and use of fossil fuels, especially natural gas. Eg, methane leaks from oil and gas pipelines, as well as from coal mines, contributing to atmospheric emissions.

    How does agriculture contribute to ammonia (NH3) emissions and their health impacts?

    • Agriculture: The application of nitrogen-based fertilizers is a major source of ammonia emissions. Eg, the use of urea fertilizers in crop fields results in ammonia volatilization when applied to the soil, contributing to air pollution.
    • Livestock Waste: Ammonia is released from animal manure, especially from large-scale livestock farming. Eg, in intensive dairy and poultry farms, ammonia is emitted from urine and feces, leading to air and water pollution.
    • Health Impacts: Ammonia contributes to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can cause respiratory issues, asthma, and premature deaths. Eg, exposure to ammonia-laden air in farming areas has been linked to increased health risks such as lung diseases and cardiovascular problems.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched in 2019, NCAP aims to reduce particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) pollution in 102 cities by 20-30% by 2024, with strategies focusing on controlling emissions from key sectors like transport, industries, and construction.
    • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: This initiative aims to replace traditional biomass cooking methods with clean cooking technologies, such as LPG, to reduce black carbon emissions in rural areas.
    • BS-VI Norms for Vehicles: The Indian government has enforced the Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards from April 2020, which are aimed at significantly reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate emissions from vehicles.
    • Pollution Control Measures in Power Plants: The government has set deadlines for coal-fired power plants to comply with stricter emission norms for sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter.
    • Air Quality Monitoring and Data Collection: The government has set up a network of air quality monitoring stations across cities under the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and is working to improve real-time data collection on air quality.

    Way forward: 

    • Shift to Clean Energy: Expand renewable energy use and enforce cleaner technologies in the power and industrial sectors to cut SO₂ and NOₓ emissions.
    • Strengthen Enforcement & Awareness: Ensure strict implementation of air quality norms and raise public awareness on pollution-reducing practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2022] Discuss in detail the photochemical smog, emphasising its formation, effects and mitigation.

    Linkage: Formation of a significant type of air pollution, photochemical smog, which is formed from primary pollutants like Nitrogen oxides (from transport and industry) reacting in the presence of sunlight [209, external knowledge]. Understanding the formation requires knowing the precursor pollutants and their sources.