The government has a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to regulate the subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, based on international prices of raw materials and fluctuations in the global market.
Note: Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is provided to farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP), irrespective of its cost of production.
About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:
Details
About
• Introduced to provide subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers, based on nutrient content, excluding Urea.
• Aims to promote balanced fertilization by encouraging use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition.
Structure and Functioning
• Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Implemented by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Scope: Applies to Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea).
• Governance: Subsidy rates are decided annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
Aims and Objectives
• Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium to complement Nitrogen and improve soil health.
• Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Aims to reduce over-reliance on Urea and improve use of other essential nutrients.
• Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible to farmers.
About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea
The NIP for Urea was announced by the Government of India in 2012 to increase domestic urea production capacity and reduce dependence on urea imports.
The policy aims to revive old urea plants and promote investment in new plants to meet the growing demand for urea.
The NIP focuses on improving fertilizer availability, and ensuring self-sufficiency in urea production.
Urea Pricing after NIP
The pricing of urea is controlled by the government, and the subsidy mechanism ensures affordable pricing for farmers.
The government provides subsidies to urea manufacturers to bridge the gap between the cost of production and the retail price, which is kept constant at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023) for farmers.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:
1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.
2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.
3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to support the Building India’s Clean Plant Programme.
Aims and Objectives
The $98 million loan focuses on improving horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials.
The primary aim is to boost the yield, quality, and resilience of crops, particularly in response to the impacts of climate change.
About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):
Details
• Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to enhance plant health management in India.
• Aimed at providing farmers access to clean, disease-free planting materials.
• Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will set up Clean Plant Centers across the country.
• Ensures global competitiveness of the Indian horticulture sector.
• Key Objectives:
– Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health management.
– Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural crops.
– Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for success.
• Funding: ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and diagnostic testing facilities at Clean Plant Centres.
• Will include a certification scheme for private nurseries to produce disease-free planting materials.
Where does India stand in its Horticulture Sector?
• In 2022-23, India’s horticulture production reached 351.92 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain production.
• Second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world; Contributes about 33% to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA). • Ranks first in the production of crops like Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
• Steady increase in horticulture production driven by proactive government policies.
PYQ:
[2021] What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?
[2018] Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?
The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives
About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme
Details
AYURSWASTHYA Yojana
• Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
• Has two key components:
AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).
• Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years.
AYURGYAN Scheme
• Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
• Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
• Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
• Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine.
Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)
Category
Details
Overview
• Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
• Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
• Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India.
Implementation and Structure
• Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
• Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
Provisions under NAM
• Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
• Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
• Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH.
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
PYQ Relevance: Q) Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously focused on ‘internal security’ as well as ‘external impacts on the political security’ of India (in 2021).
India ranked 4th out of 159 countries on the Global Terrorism Index, indicating a high level of internal conflict and the presence of various extremist groups.
Today’s editorial explores the complex transition of armed groups into formal political entities within democratic frameworks. This content can be used to put the ‘challenges and implications of transformations for broader political security and democratic landscape’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Elections in Sri Lanka highlight a less noticeable trend, where left-wing revolutionary groups, once dedicated to armed struggle, are shifting toward democratic engagement.
Some of the most prominent insurgencies, including Nepal’s Maoists, El Salvador’s Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN), and certain Marxist-Leninist groups within India, have pursued a new path by entering parliamentary politics.
This shift reflects a pragmatic blend of ideological adaptation and responsiveness to changing political realities.
What are the challenges faced in India due to such groups?
• Security Threats: The Naxalite groups, which include the CPI-Maoist, have engaged in guerrilla warfare against state forces, leading to thousands of deaths among civilians and security personnel (esp in the “red corridor” across central and eastern India). These groups often establish control over remote areas, providing governance and social services while undermining state authority. • Social and Economic Factors: The insurgency is fueled by deep-rooted issues such as poverty, land disputes, and social marginalization of tribal communities and Dalits. The government’s inability to address, this eventually allows the Naxalites to gain support from disenfranchised populations. • Political Dynamics: The rise of right-wing politics in India has complicated the landscape for leftist movements. The ruling party’s policies may exacerbate existing tensions and hinder dialogue with Marxist-Leninist groups, making it difficult for the government to pursue peaceful resolutions. The government has launched several military operations, such as Operation Green Hunt, but these operations have often led to retaliatory violence and further entrenching the conflict rather than resolving it.
What factors contribute to the successful transition of armed groups into parliamentary politics?
Internal Cohesion and Leadership: A unified leadership and strong internal cohesion within the armed group are essential for navigating the transition. Leaders who are committed to the political process and can manage internal dissent play a critical role in guiding their groups through the transformation.
Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR): The act of disarming can have significant psychological benefits, symbolizing a commitment to peace and civilian life, which is crucial for gaining public trust and acceptance.
Successful transitions often involve effective DDR initiatives that facilitate the disarmament of combatants, their demobilization from armed groups, and their reintegration into civilian life.
Favorable Peace Agreements: Agreements that include provisions for political participation, power-sharing arrangements, and recognition of the armed group’s role can create pathways for their transformation into political parties.
For example, Nepal’s peace process allowed the Maoists to enter mainstream politics after disarming and participating in elections.
Timing and Transitional Justice: Implementing transitional justice measures at right time helps address grievances and fosters reconciliation, which is vital for sustaining peace and encouraging political participation.
How do societal and political perceptions affect the integration of former insurgents into politics?
Public Trust and Legitimacy: If society views them as legitimate political actors, it can facilitate their integration. Conversely, if they are seen as threats or remnants of violence, public resistance can hinder their political participation.
For Example, in El Salvador, the FMLN’s transition from a guerrilla group to a political party was initially successful due to a peace agreement that garnered public support.
Historical Grievances: Societal attitudes towards past injustices can also affect integration. If former insurgents are perceived as having fought against oppression, they may gain sympathy and support. However, unresolved grievances can lead to resentment and opposition.
In Iraq, the Sunni population’s disenfranchisement after the fall of Saddam Hussein contributed to ongoing insurgency, as many felt excluded from the new political order.
Narratives of Victimhood: Insurgent groups often cultivate narratives of victimhood to justify their actions and garner support. If these narratives resonate with societal sentiments, they can facilitate acceptance into political processes.
However, if society perceives these narratives as manipulative or self-serving, it may lead to a backlash against former insurgents.
State Response and Governance: If the government adopts an inclusive approach that encourages participation rather than exclusion or repression, it enhances the chances of successful integration. In contrast, heavy-handed state responses can alienate former combatants and push them back towards militancy.
CASE STUDIES:
• Nepal: The Maoist party transitioned into a legitimate political entity after a decade-long civil war, aided by a comprehensive peace agreement that included provisions for their participation in governance. • Colombia: The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) signed a peace deal in 2016 that allowed them to transition into a political party. While initially successful, their integration has faced challenges due to ongoing violence and societal skepticism towards their motives. • South Sudan: Former SPLA members have struggled with integration into formal politics due to ongoing conflict and societal divisions exacerbated by ethnic tensions.
Conclusion: The willingness of the government to engage with former insurgents, and the role of external actors—play a crucial role in shaping the environment for successful political participation. For example, Colombia’s FARC’s transition into a political party post-peace agreement illustrates how supportive frameworks can aid integration, while ongoing societal skepticism presents challenges.
The stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS impacts not only those living with the virus but also affects healthcare practices as a whole. India needs policies that address both the medical treatment of HIV and the social issues that prevent effective healthcare.
Background:
In 1983, Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo identified the AIDS-causing virus. By the mid-1980s, HIV/AIDS symbolized fear, targeting immune cells and posing immense medical challenges without effective treatments.
In August 1987, the U.S. beaches saw a disturbing “Syringe Tide,” with used syringes and medical waste washing ashore, alarming the public and creating a national outcry over health concerns.
In 1986, India passed the Environmental Protection Act, marking its first major step towards environmental protection. It also identified the first HIV case at Madras Medical College.
Despite this progress, biomedical waste was not recognized as ‘hazardous waste’, and the 1989 Hazardous Waste Rules did not include biomedical waste, leaving its disposal to local bodies.
Why did the USA pass the Medical Waste Tracking Act, of 1988?
Public Health Crisis: The syringe tide incident, where used syringes and medical waste washed ashore, raised severe public health concerns, especially given the context of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Many syringes found were reportedly HIV-positive, amplifying fears about contamination and disease transmission.
Economic Impact: The tourism industry suffered significant losses, estimated at over $1 billion due to beach closures and public fear of contaminated shorelines. This economic fallout prompted a swift governmental response to restore public confidence and safety.
Regulatory Framework: The Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988 established a clear framework for monitoring and managing medical waste from its generation to disposal. This legislation recognized medical waste as a distinct category requiring specific handling procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
What are the new Biomedical Waste Regulations in India?
Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, introduced in 1998: It marked a significant step by formally recognizing hospital waste as hazardous. This legislation empowered Pollution Control Boards to oversee waste management practices.
Biomedical Waste Management Rules (BMWM Rules)), 2016: It represents a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at managing biomedical waste effectively.
Initially, biomedical waste was categorized into ten different types. This was later simplified to four color-coded categories in the 2016 amendments, which aimed to streamline the segregation process
Segregation and Treatment: Current regulations mandate that biomedical waste be segregated at the point of generation into specific categories (e.g., infectious, non-infectious) and treated accordingly before disposal.
Yellow Bags: For human anatomical waste, soiled waste, expired medicines, and chemical waste. This waste is typically treated through incineration.
Red Bags: For recyclable contaminated waste such as tubing and syringes (without needles), which undergo autoclaving before recycling.
White Containers: For sharps like needles and blades, which are sterilized before disposal.
Blue Boxes: For glassware that is disinfected or autoclaved.
How do these regulations aim to address environmental concerns?
The regulations aim to prevent environmental contamination by ensuring that biomedical waste is not mixed with general waste streams, thus reducing the risk of hazardous materials entering landfills or water bodies.
By regulating how medical waste is handled and disposed of, these laws protect public health and the occupational safety of healthcare workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials during their work.
What challenges exist in implementing these biomedical waste regulations?
Compliance Gaps: Despite established regulations, many healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, struggle with compliance due to a lack of resources, training, or awareness about proper waste management practices.
Occupational Hazards: Healthcare professionals continue to face risks from improperly managed biomedical waste, which can lead to exposure to infectious materials and other hazardous substances.
Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate infrastructure for waste segregation and treatment remains a significant challenge in many regions of India, hindering the effective implementation of existing regulations.
Way forward:
Strengthen Infrastructure and Training: Invest in modern waste treatment facilities and ensure regular training programs for healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas, to enhance compliance with biomedical waste regulations.
Enforce Strict Monitoring and Penalties: Implement robust monitoring systems and impose penalties for non-compliance to ensure accountability and adherence to waste management standards across all healthcare facilities.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are the impediments in disposing of the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? (UPSC IAS/2018)
Q) Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are the three Megacities of the country but air pollution is a much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (UPSC CSE 2015)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘constitutionalization of environmental problems’ (in 2022), and ‘pollution control and management’ (in 2013).
Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with PM 2.5 concentrations soaring far above safe limits. The Supreme Court of India has mandated that schools in Delhi-NCR shift to online classes due to hazardous air quality levels.
Today’s editorial underscores the urgent need for effective policies to address both air pollution and its impact on education. This content can be used for recommending ‘Sustainable solutions’ while ensuring ‘Quality education’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The ongoing crisis of severe air pollution is affecting schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Recent developments highlight the challenges faced by students and the educational system amid deteriorating air quality.
What are the health impacts of poor air quality on students and educators?
Respiratory Health Issues: Children exposed to pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger allergic reactions.
Studies show that children exposed to high pollution levels are at a greater risk of developing these conditions than adults.
Cognitive Impairment: Research indicates that students in poorly ventilated classrooms perform worse on standardized tests compared to those in environments with better air quality. The cognitive deficits associated with air pollution can hinder problem-solving abilities and overall learning outcomes.
Increased Absenteeism: Students suffering from health issues related to air pollution are more likely to miss school, which disrupts their learning process. Increased absenteeism not only affects individual academic progress but can also impact overall classroom dynamics.
Psychological Effects: Concerns about health risks associated with poor air quality can lead to heightened stress and anxiety among students and educators. This psychological burden can further detract from the learning environment, making it less engaging and supportive
How has the Indian education system adapted to ongoing air quality challenges?
Shift to Hybrid Learning Models: In response to deteriorating air quality, schools in Delhi and surrounding NCR cities have transitioned to hybrid learning models.
This approach combines online and physical classes, allowing students to attend lessons remotely when air quality is deemed hazardous.
Implementation Challenges: Despite the shift, schools face significant challenges in implementing hybrid models effectively. For instance, some principals have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of hybrid learning, citing past experiences where it did not meet educational standards. Logistical issues such as access to technology and internet connectivity remain barriers for many students, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Government Initiatives and Policies: Initiatives such as the National Clean Air Programme aim to reduce particulate matter levels across major cities, although implementation has been inconsistent.
Educational frameworks are being updated to incorporate environmental education more robustly, addressing issues like climate change and pollution as part of the curriculum.
Long-term Educational Strategies: The National Curriculum Framework encourages teaching about environmental issues, including pollution and climate change, which can help raise awareness among students about air quality challenges and their implications for health and society.
What long-term implications does poor air quality have on cognitive performance?
General Impact on Cognitive Function: Research indicates that long-term exposure to air pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), is associated with a decline in cognitive function.
A study involving over 25,000 participants found that higher levels of air pollution correlated with decreased performance in verbal and mathematical tests, particularly as individuals age.
The negative effects were notably pronounced in older men with lower education levels, suggesting that chronic exposure can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities related to cognitive decline
Specific Cognitive Domains Affected: Different studies have shown that exposure to PM2.5 can lead to slower response times and lower throughput in cognitive tasks, with effects worsening with increased pollution levels.
Semantic fluency tests have demonstrated significant declines in performance linked to air quality, reflecting broader implications for language processing and executive functions.
Neurodevelopmental Effects: Research has shown that even “safe” levels of air pollution can alter developmental patterns in young brains, potentially leading to long-term cognitive deficits. This is concerning as it suggests that early exposure may set the stage for lifelong cognitive challenges.
Increased Risk of Dementia and Cognitive Impairment: One study reported a hazard ratio indicating a 19% increased risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among those exposed to the highest levels of pollutants compared to those with lower exposure.
This suggests that the cumulative effects of poor air quality not only impair immediate cognitive performance but also contribute to serious long-term health issues.
Way Forward: As India grapples with severe air quality issues, it is crucial for policymakers to ensure that all students have equitable access to education while safeguarding their health. The situation calls for a collaborative approach involving government agencies, educational institutions, and communities to develop sustainable solutions that can withstand future environmental crises.
The Minister of State for Communications has provided crucial information about the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB).
AboutIndia Post Payments Bank (IPPB):
Details
What is it?
Division of India Post under the Ministry of Communications, launched in 2018.
Operates as payments bank.
Vision and Principles
• Objective: Promote financial inclusion by providing accessible and affordable financial services.
• Customer-Centric: Focuses on delivering secure and affordable banking to rural and underserved areas.
Empowerment Initiatives by IPPB
• Financial Inclusion: Offers savings accounts, current accounts, money transfers, bill payments, and insurance.
• Aadhaar-Linked Services: Implements Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for easy and secure transactions.
• Doorstep Banking: Provides banking services through 3 lakh postmen and Grameen Dak Sewaks.
• Rapid Expansion: Reached 4 crore customers by December 2020 and crossed 8 crore customers by January 2022, with over 9 crore customers as of March 2024.
Back2Basics: Payments Bank
A payments bank operates like a regular bank but without credit risk.
It was set up based on the recommendations of the Nachiket Mor Committee.
Objective: To promote financial inclusion, especially in unbanked areas, serving migrant workers, low-income households, and small entrepreneurs.
Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act, 2013, and licensed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Governed by the Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, 1934, and the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
Services Offered:
Minimum paid-up equity capital is Rs. 100 crores.
Can accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000 in savings and current accounts.
75% of deposits must be invested in government securities (SLR), with the remaining 25% placed as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
Offers remittance services, mobile payments, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for credit and other services.
Limitations:
Cannot issue loans or credit cards.
Cannot accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
Cannot set up subsidiaries for non-banking financial activities.
PYQ:
[2018] Which one of the following links all the ATMs in India?
The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) was honored with the prestigious Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties.
Significance of the OPCW-The Hague Award
Purpose: The award recognizes contributions to advancing the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), focusing on chemical safety, disarmament, and global security.
This year, the award was given to the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the first chemical industry body to receive it, for its role in promoting chemical safety and CWC compliance.
Global Impact: The award emphasizes ICC’s work in collaboration with international bodies and advocacy for sustainable practices in chemical security.
Legacy: The OPCW, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, continues to honor impactful organizations and individuals contributing to the global disarmament agenda.
What is theChemical Weapons Convention (CWC)?
Details
What is it?
• CWC bans the development, use, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and mandates their destruction.
• Genesis: Negotiations began in 1980.
• Established: Opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997.
• More comprehensive than the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only banned the use of chemical weapons.
Structure and Functions
• Conference of States Parties (CSP): The main decision-making body, meeting annually.
• Executive Council: 41-member body overseeing CWC implementation.
• Technical Secretariat: Provides support for verification and compliance.
• Verification: Inspects facilities and ensures compliance with the treaty.
Membership criteria and members
• Open to all nations: Any state can join if it meets requirements.
• 193 States-Parties: Includes most nations.
• Non-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have neither signed nor ratified the CWC.
Functioning Arm
• Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) implements the CWC, headquartered in The Hague.
• Role: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapons and ensures treaty compliance.
• Inspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities worldwide.
• Awards: The OPCW won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in chemical weapons elimination.
PYQ:
[2016] With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:
It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
The Ministry of Science and Technology, through its three key departments — Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) — is implementing various schemes to bolster the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem across India.
Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Science and Technology (DST)
Scheme
Objective
Key Components
Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building (2015)
Enhance human resource development and institutional capacity in science and technology.
– Fellowships at various levels (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, post-doctoral).
– Establishment of sophisticated R&D facilities.
– Capacity building for faculty.
Research and Development (R&D) (2009)
Support research in fundamental, applied, and translational sciences.
– Collaborative research with universities, government, and private sectors.
– International research cooperation.
– Focus on diverse sectors like health, energy, and IT.
Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment (2016)
Foster innovation and facilitate the development of new technologies for national development.
– Technology incubation centers.
– Technology transfer and commercialization.
– Support for startups and entrepreneurs.
National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) (2017)
Promote interdisciplinary research in Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) that integrate computational algorithms with physical processes.
– Development of CPS technologies (e.g., IoT, smart cities, advanced manufacturing).
– Setting up innovation centers and testbeds for CPS.
Advance quantum technologies for solving national challenges in energy, communications, and security.
– Research in quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing.
– Establishment of quantum technology hubs and research centers.
Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
Scheme
Objective
Key Components
Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) (2017)
Foster innovation in biotechnology through research, industrial development, and entrepreneurship.
– Biotechnology R&D: Funding for research projects.
– Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED): Support for biotech startups and industrial innovations.
– Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry: Development of manufacturing and biotechnological production systems.
Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)”, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme by the Agriculture Ministry to promote natural farming nationwide in mission mode.
What is Natural Farming?
Natural farming is defined by the Agriculture Ministry as a chemical-free agricultural system that relies solely on inputs derived from livestock and plant resources. This approach emphasizes the use of local agroecological principles and traditional knowledge, integrating crops, trees, and livestock to enhance biodiversity and soil health.
Aim: The goal is to rejuvenate soil quality while minimizing external inputs, thus reducing costs for farmers and promoting healthier food production.
How is the NMNF Different from Earlier Interventions?
The NMNF represents an evolution of previous initiatives, particularly the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP), which was launched in 2019.
Higher Budgetary Outlay: The NMNF has a total financial outlay of ₹2,481 crore, with ₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states until 2025-26.
Targeting More Farmers: The mission aims to engage over one crore farmers, significantly expanding its reach compared to earlier efforts.
Establishment of Standards: It seeks to create scientifically supported standards and streamlined certification processes for naturally grown produce, along with a national brand for such products.
Why is it Necessary to Diversify the Farming Basket?
Environmental Sustainability: Reducing chemical inputs helps restore soil health and biodiversity, making agriculture more resilient to climate change.
Economic Viability: By promoting local inputs and reducing dependency on purchased fertilizers, farmers can lower their costs and increase their profitability.
Food Security: A diverse agricultural system can lead to improved food quality and nutritional security for communities.
Why a Mission on Natural Farming is Needed?
Excessive Fertilizer Use: The initiative targets districts with high fertiliser consumption, aiming to shift practices towards more sustainable methods that rejuvenate soil health and reduce environmental degradation.
Health Risks: By eliminating synthetic chemicals from farming, the mission aims to lower health risks associated with pesticide exposure for both farmers and consumers.
Climate Resilience: Natural farming practices enhance resilience against climate-related challenges such as droughts and floods by improving soil structure and water retention capabilities.
Way forward:
Policy and Infrastructure Support: Strengthen institutional frameworks by expanding Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs), offering financial incentives, and ensuring easy access to natural farming resources and certification systems.
Awareness and Capacity Building: Conduct large-scale training programs for farmers on natural farming practices, promote successful models through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and foster collaborations with agricultural universities for research and innovation.
Mains PYQ:
Q What is an Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India? (UPSC IAS/2022)