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GS Paper: GS3

  • [pib] 10 years of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY)

    Why in the News?

    April 8, 2025, marks the 10th anniversary of Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), launched to fund micro and small enterprises.

    About the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY)

    • The PMMY, launched in 2015 is a Central Sector Scheme designed to provide financial support to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs previously excluded from the formal financial system.
    • MUDRA stands for Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Ltd., a financial institution established to support the development and refinancing of micro-enterprises
    • It aims to foster grassroots entrepreneurship and remove barriers to accessing loans, especially for businesses that lack collateral.

    Loan Categories:

      1. Shishu: Loans up to ₹50,000 for new or small businesses.
      2. Kishore: Loans ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh for growing enterprises.
      3. Tarun: Loans from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh for more established businesses with greater capital needs.
      4. TarunPlus: Loan limit up to ₹20 lakh for more established and larger businesses (since July 2024).

    Key Features:

    • Collateral-Free Loans: PMMY loans do not require any collateral, making them accessible to those without assets.
    • Member Lending Institutions (MLIs): These include Public Sector Banks, Private Sector Banks, Regional Rural Banks, Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and Small Finance Banks (SFBs).
    • Credit Guarantee: Loans are backed by the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU), which was established in 2015 to provide security to financial institutions offering loans under PMMY.
    • MUDRA Card: A MUDRA card is issued to manage the working capital portion of the loan, providing convenience to the borrower.

    MUDRA 2.0:

    • MUDRA 2.0 (launched in Union Budget 2024) is an upgraded version of the original PMMY, designed to extend its outreach, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
    • This version introduces additional services such as financial literacy programs, business mentorship, and comprehensive business support, aiming to improve the overall impact of the scheme.
    • Enhanced Credit Guarantee Scheme (ECGS) is a new feature introduced to encourage more lending to small and microenterprises by reducing the risk for financial institutions.

    Successes of PMMY:

    • Massive Loan Disbursement: Over ₹32.61 lakh crore disbursed through 52 crore loans, benefitting millions.
    • Inclusivity: 69% of loans are held by women, 51% by SC/ST and OBC entrepreneurs.
    • Job Creation: Promoted self-employment and business growth in rural and semi-urban areas.
    • MSME Credit Growth: Lending increased from ₹8.51 lakh crore in FY14 to ₹27.25 lakh crore in FY24.
    • International Recognition: Praised by IMF for expanding financial access, especially for women-led businesses.

    Challenges:

    • Increase in NPAs: Rising defaults due to lack of collateral.
    • Disbursement Delays: Some banks face challenges in meeting loan targets.
    • Fraud Risk: Collateral-free loans are susceptible to misuse and fraud.
    • Larger Loan Limits: Higher limits under TarunPlus raise default risks for banks.
    • Default Risk: Some borrowers exploit the system through “evergreening” tactics.
    [UPSC 2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at

    (a) bringing small entrepreneurs into the formal financial system.

    (b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.

    (c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons.

    (d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.

     

  • Technology and Innovation Report, 2025

    Why in the News?

    The Technology and Innovation Report, 2025 was recently issued by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

    About the Technology and Innovation Report

    • The report is released by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
    • It addresses critical issues related to science, technology, and innovation, with a particular focus on developing countries. The report emphasizes policy-relevant analysis and conclusions.
    • The theme for the 2025 edition is “Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development.”

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Global Highlights:
      • Developed countries lead in technology preparedness, but nations like China, India, and Brazil outperform their income levels.
      • AI market projected to reach USD 4.8 trillion by 2033, fuelling global digital transformation.
      • 100 companies, mostly in the U.S. and China, account for 40% of global corporate R&D spending.
      • AI will affect 40% of jobs globally, raising concerns over automation and job displacement.
      • U.S. leads in AI investment with USD 67 billion, followed by China (USD 7.8 billion) and India (USD 1.4 billion).
      • AI Governance Gap: 118 countries, mainly from the Global South, are absent from global AI governance discussions.
    • Indian Prospects:
      • India ranks 36th in the Readiness for Frontier Technologies Index in 2024, up from 48th in 2022. It ranks 10th globally with USD 1.4 billion in AI investments.
      • India has a talent pool of 13 million AI developers, contributing significantly to open-source platforms like GitHub.
      • The India AI Mission (2024) focuses on AI innovation through collaborations with the private sector and academia.
      • India leads in nanotechnology and has AI excellence centres like IIT Hyderabad and IIT Kharagpur.
    [UPSC 2019] The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the:

    (a) International Monetary Fund (b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (c) World Economic Forum (d) World bank

     

  • First photographic record of Woolly Flying Squirrel captured in Himachal

    Why in the News?

    The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department’s wildlife wing has captured the first photographic evidence of the elusive Woolly Flying Squirrel in the Miyar Valley, Lahaul and Spiti district.

    First photographic record of Woolly Flying Squirrel captured in Himachal

    About the Woolly Flying Squirrel:

    • The Woolly Flying Squirrel, scientifically known as Eupetaurus cinereus, is one of the rarest and least known mammals in Asia.
    • It is endemic to the northwestern Himalayas, primarily found in northern Pakistan and northwestern India.
    • It prefers to live in dry conifer woodlands within a fragmented habitat in a thin elevational band.
    • This species was long believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994, nearly seventy years after its last recorded sighting.
    • It is unique due to its ability to glide, much like other flying squirrels, as it has elastic membranes that connect its fore and hind legs.

    Physical features:

    • Its body is covered with dense, straight, silky hairs, with the dorsal pelage appearing blue-gray, while the underside is pale gray.
    • The squirrel also has creamy white hairs on its throat and ears, and dense black fur on the soles of its feet, with pinkish brown toe pads that are naked.

    Conservation Status:

    • Listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List.
    • NOT explicitly mentioned under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

    Significance of the Rediscovery:

    • Its confirmed existence adds to the state’s mammal checklist, offering hope for its continued survival in this remote part of the Himalayas.
    • This discovery is important from a scientific perspective, as it marks the first time the elusive species has been documented in India since its rediscovery in 1994.
    [UPSC 2012] Consider the following:

    1. Black-necked crane 2. Cheetah 3. Flying squirrel 4. Snow leopard

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

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

     

  • PM inaugurates New Pamban Bridge 

    pamban bridge

    Why in the News?

    The newly constructed Pamban Bridge was inaugurated by PM Modi to replace a 110-year-old structure that connected Rameswaram to the Indian mainland.

    About the Pamban Bridge  

    • The Pamban Bridge, completed in 1914, was India’s first sea bridge, connecting Rameswaram on Pamban Island to the mainland.
    • It featured a double-leaf bascule span, allowing ships to pass through when the bridge lifted.
    • Standing 12.5 meters above sea level and spanning 145 piers, the bridge faced challenges, including cyclones and workforce issues.
    • The old bridge had become unsafe due to severe corrosion and structural weaknesses, highlighted by vibrations detected in 2022.
    • The new bridge features a vertical lift span that can raise in just 5 minutes, with a 22-meter clearance to allow larger vessels to pass, compared to the old bridge’s 1.5 meters.
    • Trains can now travel at speeds up to 75 km/h, a significant improvement from the previous 10 km/h limit.

  • CAPTCHA: a digital border between Humans and Bots

    Why in the News?

    This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in The Hindu.

    What is CAPTCHA?

    • CAPTCHA stands for Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart.
    • It is a security measure used to differentiate humans from automated bots on websites.
    • It helps protect websites against spam and misuse by ensuring that the user performing actions is a human.
    • It was developed in the early 2000s by Luis von Ahn, Manuel Blum, Nicholas J. Hopper, and John Langford as a response to the proliferation of automated bots on the internet that created fake accounts, spammed websites, and stole data.
    • The first patent for CAPTCHA was filed in 2003.

    How Does CAPTCHA Work?

    • CAPTCHA presents tasks that are easy for humans to solve but hard for machines.
    • These tasks typically involve recognizing distorted text, images, or sounds that machines cannot interpret as reliably as humans.
    • It operates on the principle of the Turing test, designed by British mathematician Alan Turing in the 1950s.
      • This assesses a machine’s ability to exhibit human-like behaviour.
    • Over the years, CAPTCHA has evolved from simple text recognition to more complex tests:
    1. Image Recognition CAPTCHA: Users are asked to identify specific objects within images, such as cars, traffic lights, or storefronts.
    2. reCAPTCHA: Launched by Google in 2009, this system not only serves as a CAPTCHA but also helps digitize text from scanned documents. Users transcribe words that OCR software has been unable to recognize.
    3. Invisible reCAPTCHA: Introduced by Google in 2014, this version analyzes the user’s interaction with the website, such as mouse movements, to determine if they are human without needing them to complete a specific challenge.

    Limitations of CAPTCHA

    • Accessibility Issues: CAPTCHA can be challenging for people with disabilities, such as visual or hearing impairments.
    • User Inconvenience: The need to solve CAPTCHAs can be cumbersome, particularly on mobile devices, and may detract from user experience.
    • Advancing Bot Technology: As bots become more sophisticated with AI, they are increasingly capable of bypassing CAPTCHA systems, necessitating more complex solutions.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements: A digital signature is

    1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it

    2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or server on Internet.

    3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

  • India’s Subsea Cable Infrastructure

    Why in the news?

    India is gradually expanding its undersea cable infrastructure, with new systems like Airtel’s 2Africa Pearls and SEA-ME-WE-6 boosting its international internet bandwidth.

    What are Undersea Cables?

    • Undersea cables are fiber optic cables laid on the ocean floor that connect internet networks between countries.
    • These cables are heavily insulated and contain fiber optic strands for transmitting data.
    • They surface at landing points, connect to landing stations, and then link to broader terrestrial networks.
    • Approximately 600 undersea cables exist globally.
    • These cables handle 90% of global data, 80% of world trade, and $10 trillion in financial transactions.

    India’s Current Undersea Cable Ecosystem:

    • India’s two main hubs for subsea cables are Mumbai and Chennai.
      • 17 international cables land in India, with 95% of subsea cables concentrated in a 6-km stretch in Versova, Mumbai.
    • India has two domestic cable systems:
    1. Chennai–Andaman–Nicobar Islands (CANI)
    2. Kochi–Lakshadweep Islands
    • While current bandwidth is considered sufficient, rising data traffic may soon outpace available capacity.
      • Experts warn that India’s current capacity may become inadequate in the near future.
    • India contributes only 1% of global cable landing stations and 3% of subsea cable systems, highlighting its underrepresentation in the global network.

    [UPSC 2016] With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It uses light as the medium for high speed data transmission.

    2. It is wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

     

  • Exercise INDRA 2025

    Why in the News?

    The bilateral naval exercise INDRA 2025 between the Indian and Russian navies was held from 28 March to 02 April 2025.

    About Exercise INDRA

    • INDRA is a biennial joint military exercise that began in 2003.
    • Over time, INDRA transformed into a tri-service exercise involving Army, Navy, and Air Force, making it more comprehensive and multifaceted.
    • Recent Editions of INDRA:
      • 2021 (12th Edition): Held in Volgograd, Russia; Focused on counter-terrorism operations and enhancing operational synergy.
      • 2023 (13th Edition): Conducted in the Bay of Bengal, India; Involved naval forces from both countries, enhancing maritime cooperation and joint operations.
      • 2025 (14th Edition): It is being conducted in two phases: Harbour phase at Chennai and Sea phase in the Bay of Bengal.

    Strategic Importance 

    • The exercise reinforced jointmanship between the Indian and Russian forces, strengthening their ability to collaborate in maritime security operations.
    • It highlighted the shared commitment to upholding maritime order and promoting global peace and stability.
    • Best practices were exchanged, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational doctrines and enhancing the capacity to respond effectively to contemporary maritime security challenges.

  • [4th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The other space race — the geopolitics of satellite net

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] Can India become a space power by solely relying on its indigenous technology, or is it imperative to forge technological alliances and collaborations with other nations to stay competitive in the global space race? Elaborate your views. 

    Linkage:  India’s choice to partner with Starlink, a US-based network, over waiting for indigenous solutions or potentially partnering with China, illustrating the geopolitical considerations in space technology.

     

    Mentor’s Comment: Many parts of India still lack fiber and mobile networks. Starlink’s tie-up with Airtel and Jio helps bring fast Internet to remote areas without big infrastructure costs. While good for business, it raises concerns about U.S. digital control. Starlink’s dominance, with 7,000 satellites, risks creating a monopoly and giving private firms major control over key infrastructure.

    Today’s editorial analyzes  Starlink’s tie-up with Airtel and Jio and its impact. This will help in GS paper 2 and GS Paper 3.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    It’s still unclear whether satellite Internet will help everyone get connected or just make the digital gap worse in a new way from space.

    What are the economic and strategic benefits of India’s partnership with Starlink?

    • Bridging the Digital Divide: Enables high-speed internet access in rural, remote, and hilly areas where laying fiber-optic cables is difficult or expensive. Eg:  Remote villages in Ladakh or Northeast India can access e-learning, telemedicine, and government services through satellite internet.
    • Cost-effective Infrastructure Expansion: Reduces the capital and operational costs for Indian telecom companies like Airtel and Jio, as satellite internet bypasses the need for expensive terrestrial infrastructure. Eg : Instead of building hundreds of towers in sparsely populated areas, Airtel can provide service using Starlink’s satellite network.
    • Strategic Geopolitical Alignment: Aligns India with the U.S.-led democratic digital alliance, distancing itself from authoritarian tech ecosystems like China’s GuoWang. Eg: Choosing Starlink over Chinese alternatives reflects India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy of cooperation with like-minded nations.
    • Boost to Domestic Capability via Partnership Model: Collaborating through Indian partners (Airtel, Jio) offers regulatory oversight, scope for technology transfer, and growth of India’s tech ecosystem. Eg: Local data routing, domestic satellite ground stations, and service operations can help build technical capacity and expertise in India.
    • Strategic Communication Redundancy Enhances national security by providing backup communication systems during disasters or network blackouts. Eg: During natural calamities like cyclones or earthquakes, satellite internet can keep remote regions connected when ground networks fail.

    Why is Starlink’s monopolistic control a concern, and how does it impact India?

    • Overdependence on a Foreign Private Entity: Reliance on Starlink gives a U.S.-based private firm significant control over India’s digital backbone in remote areas.
       Eg: If Starlink alters service terms or suspends access due to U.S. geopolitical interests, India’s connectivity in border or conflict zones could be compromised.
    • National Security Risks: Communication infrastructure operated from outside the country raises concerns over surveillance, data sovereignty, and wartime disruption. Eg: During the Russia-Ukraine war, Starlink restricted access to its services in conflict zones — India could face similar risks in sensitive areas like Jammu & Kashmir or Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Market Distortion and Limited Competition: Starlink’s first-mover advantage and satellite volume (~7,000 satellites) could outcompete smaller or local satellite internet ventures. Eg: Domestic players like ISRO’s satellite internet plans or private Indian firms may struggle to gain market share or scale up effectively.
    • Pricing Power and Affordability Issues: Monopoly allows Starlink to set high prices, making services unaffordable for large sections of rural and poor populations. Eg: Without competition or regulation, satellite internet packages may remain out of reach for rural schoolchildren or small farmers.
    • Reduced Technological Sovereignty: Long-term reliance may hinder India’s ability to develop indigenous alternatives, stalling progress toward digital self-reliance. Eg: Starlink dominance might delay ISRO’s or IN-SPACe’s efforts in launching Indian LEO satellite constellations.

    Who are the key global players in satellite internet?

    Player Country Project Name Key Features Example / Status
    SpaceX USA Starlink – Operates 7,000+ satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

    – Provides global broadband internet

    		 – Services available in 70+ countries

    – Partnerships with Airtel & Jio in India for rural access
    China Satellite Network Group China GuoWang – State-run project for national security & digital sovereignty

    – Aims to deploy 13,000+ satellites

    		 – Strategic focus on Indo-Pacific and Belt & Road countries
    Amazon USA Project Kuiper – Plans to deploy 3,000+ satellites

    – Emerging competitor in global internet services

    		 – FCC approved

    – Aims to launch by 2026

    – Focus on North America & developing markets

     

    How does India’s choice of Starlink over indigenous or Chinese alternatives reflect its Indo-Pacific strategy?

    • Strategic Alignment with Democratic Partners: India’s preference for Starlink (a U.S.-based company) indicates alignment with democratic nations in the Indo-Pacific region. Eg: By avoiding Chinese alternatives like GuoWang, India reinforces its commitment to frameworks like Quad (India, U.S., Japan, Australia) that promote a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.
    • Countering China’s Digital Influence: India’s decision helps prevent Chinese technological dominance in Asia, especially in sensitive sectors like space and communication.Eg: Partnering with Starlink counters China’s Digital Silk Road ambitions and limits Beijing’s potential surveillance or control via GuoWang.
    • Enhancing Strategic Interoperability: Collaborating with U.S. technologies builds compatibility with partner nations’ digital and defense infrastructure. Eg: Starlink’s use in defense communication, as seen in Ukraine, could serve as a backup during emergencies in border regions like Ladakh or Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Economic Pragmatism and Speed: India needs fast, scalable connectivity. Starlink offers a quicker solution compared to long timelines for domestic capability development. Eg: Indigenous LEO satellite programs are still in nascent stages, while Starlink is already operational, helping bridge rural digital gaps.
    • Signal of Strategic Autonomy, Not Dependency: By routing Starlink through Indian firms like Jio and Airtel, India retains some control, showing a model of “managed dependency.” Eg: Unlike full foreign control, this hybrid model mirrors India’s “Act East” and “Neighbourhood First” policies that balance strategic autonomy with global partnerships.

    What steps can ensure digital sovereignty? (Way forward)

    • Develop Indigenous Satellite Infrastructure: Investing in homegrown satellite constellations enhances strategic independence and reduces reliance on foreign networks.Eg: ISRO and private players like IN-SPACe can develop India’s own LEO satellite systems to serve rural and border areas.
    • Enforce Strong Regulatory Frameworks: Mandating data localization, technology transfer, and operational oversight ensures control over foreign tech operations. Eg: India can require local data storage and security vetting for Starlink services, similar to norms for other digital services.
    • Strengthen Public Sector Participation: Involving state-owned enterprises like BSNL in satellite internet rollouts can provide public oversight and reduce strategic vulnerabilities.Eg: Partnering Starlink with BSNL could combine reach and regulation, giving the government more control over critical infrastructure.

  • Why Naini Lake is seeing record-low water levels?

    Why in the News?

    Naini Lake, one of Nainital’s key attractions, has recorded a water level of 4.7 feet, marking a 5-year low, sparking concerns about drinking water scarcity as the summer season approaches.

    About Naini Lake

    • Naini Lake is situated in the heart of Nainital, a hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by seven hills.
    • The lake is natural kidney-shaped and is one of the main attractions of Nainital.
    • It was discovered by P. Barron, an English businessman, in the mid-19th century, which led to the development of Nainital as a hill station.
    • The deepest point of Naini Lake is 89 feet.
    • The normal gauge level of the lake is 12 feet, and its water level has recently dropped to 4.7 feet, marking a five-year low.

    Why is the Water Level declining?

    • The Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan extracts 10 million litres of water daily from Naini Lake for drinking water supply to the city of Nainital.
    • 76% of the city’s water demand was met by the lake in 2024, but increasing population, tourist activity, and commercialisation have intensified pressure on the lake’s water resources.
    • The lake faces numerous threats, including:
      • Decreased snowfall and rainfall, especially in the winter months.
      • Unplanned construction and encroachments around the lake, leading to the reduction of its catchment area.
      • Pollution due to the discharge of untreated wastewater and improper disposal of solid waste.
    • Siltation caused by debris dumping in Sukhatal Lake, a major aquifer recharge area for Naini Lake, has contributed to the shrinking of the lake’s size.
    • Climate change is affecting the region’s weather patterns, with annual temperatures rising by nearly 1.5 degrees Celsius between 1970 and 2022.

    Other Important Lakes in India (Artificial and Manmade):

    Type Lake Name Location Details
    Natural Dal Lake Jammu & Kashmir Famous for houseboats and scenic beauty, located in Srinagar.
    Vembanad Lake Kerala The longest lake in India, central to Kerala’s backwaters and tourism.
    Sambhar Lake Rajasthan Largest inland saltwater lake, important for bird migration, especially flamingos.
    Manmade Kolleru Lake Andhra Pradesh A large freshwater lake, critical for bird habitats and a wetland.
    Hussain Sagar Lake Telangana Constructed in 1562, famous for its Buddha statue and as a water source.
    Upper Lake Madhya Pradesh Artificial lake in Bhopal, important for water supply and recreational activities.
    Indira Sagar Lake Madhya Pradesh A large reservoir created by the Indira Sagar Dam for power generation and irrigation.

     

    [UPSC 2018] Which one of the following is an ‘Artificial Lake‘?

    (a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) (b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh) (c) Nainital (Uttarakhand) (d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh)

     

  • GI Tags Awarded in April 2025

    Why in the News?

    Recently, several Geographical Indication (GI) tags have been awarded to unique products, enhancing their protection in the market and giving them a platform for global recognition.

    Here is the list of all the GI tags recently Awarded:

    State Product Name Description
    Meghalaya Ryndia (Meghalaya Handloom Products) Ryndia is an eco-friendly fabric made from Ahimsa Silk by indigenous Khasi, Bhoi, and Jaintia artisans. Known for its durability and luxurious texture, Ryndia is used to make stoles, shawls, and garments with organic dyes from local plants.
    Kerala Kannadippaya A traditional tribal handicraft made from the inner layers of reed bamboo. This mat, known for its reflective pattern, provides a cooling effect in summer and warmth during winter. It is woven by various tribal communities, including the Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, and Kadar tribes, primarily in the Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad districts of Kerala.
    Tamil Nadu Panruti Cashew This cashew variety is celebrated for its mildly sweet, nutty flavor and its crisp yet tender texture. Grown primarily in Panruti, Tamil Nadu, it has a high demand both domestically and internationally, setting it apart from other cashew varieties due to its unique taste and texture.
    Panruti Jackfruit The Panruti jackfruit is a prized agricultural product from Panruti, where commercial cultivation is concentrated. Known for its large size and distinctive flavor, it is available throughout the year, with different varieties ripening at different times. The jackfruit is widely used for making chips, curries, and sweets and has potential for value-added products.
    Chettikulam Small Onion Grown in the Aalathur block of Perambalur district, this small onion variety is an important crop in Tamil Nadu, known for its strong aroma and robust flavor. Over 8,000 hectares in the district are dedicated to small onion cultivation, producing 65,000 to 70,000 tonnes annually. This variety is integral to local cooking and is used in various dishes, offering a unique flavor to regional cuisine.
    Puliyangudi Acid Lime Known as the Lemon City of Tamil Nadu, Puliyangudi produces acid lime that is small to medium-sized (4–6 cm in diameter) with a vibrant green color and thin, smooth skin. The limes are famous for their tangy taste and are widely used in cooking, especially in Southern Tamil Nadu and Kerala, as well as for producing lime juice and lime-based products.
    Virudhunagar Samba Vathal These bright red, spicy sambal chilies from Virudhunagar are renowned for their distinct flavor and are a crucial ingredient in Southern Indian cuisine. They are often used in the oleoresin extraction process, which plays a significant role in the spice industry.
    Ramanadu Chithiraikar Rice A red rice variety from Ramanadu, this rice is known for its ability to keep hunger at bay for hours, making it a staple in many households. The rice is commonly consumed as a hearty porridge and is recognized for its nutritional value and ability to provide long-lasting energy.
    Kumbakonam Betel Leaf Grown in the fertile Cauvery River basin, Kumbakonam Betel Leaf is known for its distinct taste and aroma. It is used in the preparation of paan and as a symbol of hospitality in the region.
    West Bengal Thovalai Flower Garland A handcrafted floral garland made from a mix of white, red, and green flowers, Thovalai Flower Garland is used for festivals and special occasions. It is woven in a mat-like fashion and is celebrated for its artistic beauty.
    Murshidabad Chhanobora This sweet from Murshidabad is made from chhena (curdled milk) and flavored with cardamom. It is known for its smooth texture and distinct taste, being a traditional treat prepared during festivals and significant occasions.
    Bishnupur Motichur Laddu A traditional Bengali sweet laddu, made from finely ground chickpeas, sugar, and ghee. It has a delicate, aromatic flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali. Its historical roots trace back to the Bishnupur region, known for its unique preparation methods.
    Kamarpukur Sada Bode A fried Bengali sweet, Kamarpukur Sada Bode is made from wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. It is an important part of Bengali festivals and local traditions, valued for its crisp texture and sweet, rich taste.
    Malda Nistari Silk Yarn Known for its fine texture, durability, and the intricate traditional weaving techniques used, Malda Nistari Silk Yarn is produced in Malda, Bengal. This silk is highly sought after for its luxurious feel and is used for making high-quality garments.
    Radhunipagal Rice A local variety of rice from Bengal, Radhunipagal is known for its resilient texture and ability to stay filling for extended periods, making it perfect for hearty meals. This rice is a staple in many traditional Bengali dishes.
    Baruipur Guava Baruipur Guava, grown in the fertile soil of West Bengal, is known for its distinct taste and texture. The fruit has a sweet flavor and is used in juices, jams, and desserts.
    Jammu and Kashmir 

     

    		 Kashmir Namda A woolen rug from Kashmir, Namda is known for its thick texture and intricate designs. Traditionally crafted by hand using sheep wool, it is prized for its insulating properties and is a significant part of Kashmir’s textile heritage.
    Kashmir Gabba A traditional woolen product from Kashmir, Gabba is used in home decor and textiles. It is made using local wool and features intricate handwoven patterns.
    Kashmir Willow Bat Kashmir Willow is used for making high-quality cricket bats, known for their lightweight and durable properties, making it a sought-after material for professional cricket bats.
    Kashmir Tweed Kashmir Tweed is a finely woven fabric, made from wool, and is renowned for its warmth and luxury. It has been traditionally used to make winter garments, particularly coats and shawls.
    Kashmir Crewel A hand-embroidered fabric from Kashmir, Crewel features intricate floral designs and is traditionally used in making home textiles like curtains, bedspreads, and cushions.
    Kashmir Chain Stitch A traditional embroidery technique from Kashmir, Chain Stitch is used to create decorative textiles. The embroidery is vibrant, with floral patterns, and is used in making garments and home furnishings.
    Kashmir Shikara The Shikara is a traditional boat from Kashmir used primarily for tourism and transportation in the Dal Lake. It is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich heritage and has been part of the region’s culture for centuries.
    Kashmir Wagguv Wagguv is a traditional handcrafted product from Kashmir, made using local materials and is known for its unique craftsmanship and cultural significance in the region.

     

    [UPSC 2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ Status?

    (1) Banaras Brocades and Sarees (2) Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma (3) Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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