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GS Paper: GS3

  • On reforms in merchant shipping

    Why in the News?

    The government is set to introduce the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, and the Coastal Shipping Bill, of 2024, aiming to drive critical reforms and deliver transformative changes to strengthen and revitalize the shipping industry.

    Have the Merchant Shipping Act, of 1958, and the Coasting Vessels Act, of 1838 failed? 

    The Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, and the Coasting Vessels Act, 1838, do not meet contemporary maritime needs and regulatory requirements as follows:

    • Regulatory Gaps: Significant gaps exist for offshore vessels, which account for nearly 50% of Indian-flagged vessels. The current framework fails to regulate these vessels adequately.
    • Seafarer Welfare Limitations: Welfare provisions are restricted to Indian-flagged ships, neglecting the majority of Indian seafarers (85%) who work on foreign-flagged vessels.
    • Lack of Legal Framework: There is no effective legal framework to regulate private sector participation in maritime training, leading to unauthorized institutions operating without oversight.
    • Inadequate Implementation of International Conventions: The existing laws lack provisions to implement various international conventions that India has signed or plans to ratify.

     

    What are the key features of the New Merchant Shipping Bill 2024?

    • Ease of Registration: The Bill allows for reduced ownership thresholds (from 100% to 51%) for Indian entities and permits foreign entities to hold shares in Indian vessels while ensuring majority ownership remains with Indians.
    • Expanded Scope of Vessels: It broadens the definition of ‘vessels’ to include a variety of crafts (e.g., submersibles, barges), ensuring comprehensive regulatory oversight.
    • Temporary Registration for Ship Recycling: Introduces provisions for temporary registration of vessels destined for demolition, facilitating operations in ship recycling hubs like Alang.
    • Strengthened Coastal Security: Empowers authorities to issue instructions across all vessel categories to enhance coastal security.
    • Integration with International Standards: Aligns with global best practices from leading maritime jurisdictions like the U.K., Norway, and Singapore.

    What are some of the international maritime conventions that India has ratified? 

    • International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS): Establishes minimum safety standards in the construction and operation of ships.
    • International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW): Sets standards for training and certification of seafarers.
    • Maritime Labour Convention (MLC): Focuses on the rights and welfare of seafarers, ensuring decent working conditions.
    • International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC): Addresses liability for oil pollution damage from ships.
    • International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL): Aims to minimize pollution from ships, covering various aspects of marine pollution.
    • Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (LLMC): Limits the liability of shipowners in case of maritime claims.
    • Wreck Removal Convention: Provides a legal framework for the removal of wrecks to prevent marine pollution.

    Will the new Bills address maritime training and education as well? 

    Yes, the new Merchant Shipping Bill, of 2024, specifically addresses maritime training and education, aiming to fill regulatory gaps and ensure standardization.

    • Establishment of a Legal Framework: The new Merchant Shipping Bill introduces clear legal provisions to regulate maritime training institutes, addressing the absence of such a framework in the existing law.
    • Elimination of Unauthorised Institutes: It empowers the government to act against unauthorised maritime training institutes, ensuring only approved institutions operate and deliver high-quality, standardised education.
    • Alignment with Global Standards: The Bill ensures maritime training aligns with international best practices, enhancing the employability and skills of Indian seafarers in the global maritime sector.

    Way forward: 

    • Robust Implementation and Monitoring: Ensure effective enforcement of the new Bills by establishing transparent regulatory mechanisms, leveraging technology for compliance, and regular monitoring to address gaps swiftly.
    • Stakeholder Engagement and Capacity Building: Foster collaboration between the government, private sector, and international maritime bodies to enhance infrastructure, promote innovation, and build capacity for sustainable growth in the maritime sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Egyptian Cotton Leafworm (A Moth Species)

    Why in the News?

    A moth species called Egyptian cotton leafworm can hear sounds emitted by stressed plants, a study confirmed.

    About the Egyptian Cotton Leafworm

    Details
    • Scientific name: Spodoptera littoralis.
    • Polyphagous pest affecting crops like cotton, tomatoes, maize, tobacco, and peppers.
    • Found across tropical and subtropical regions in Africa, Middle East, and South Asia.
    • The moth has been spreading to new areas due to climate change.
    • Larvae damage crops by feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers, reducing crop yield and quality.
    Findings of the Study
    • Female moths use plant acoustic emissions (sound clicks) to decide where to lay eggs.
    • These sounds, undetectable to humans, help the moths identify healthier, hydrated plants for egg-laying.
    • Moths avoid stressed, dehydrated plants that produce stress-related sounds.
    Impact on Agriculture
    • Harmful in cotton-growing regions.
    • Larvae cause significant damage to a variety of crops, particularly cotton, tomatoes, and tobacco, impacting the quality and quantity of the produce.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which of the following statements is / are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?

    1. Vegetative propagation produces clonal population.

    2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus.

    3. Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the year.

    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

  • The issue of India’s economic growth versus emissions

    Why in the News?

    The Economic Survey (2023-24) claims that India has managed to grow its economy without significantly increasing its greenhouse gas emissions. This claim has sparked the debate about actual sustainable growth in India.

    What does the Economic Survey (2023-24) say about GHG emissions?

    • Relative Decoupling Achieved: Between 2005 and 2019, India’s GDP grew at a 7% CAGR, while GHG emissions increased by 4%.
    • Emission Intensity Reduction: India reduced emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its 2030 NDC target 11 years early.
    • Carbon Sink Expansion: India aims to add a 2.5–3 billion tonne carbon sink by 2030, building on the 1.97 billion tonnes achieved (2005–2019).
    • Investment Needs: Achieving NDC targets requires $2.5 trillion by 2030, with a focus on domestic resources, affordable finance, and technology access.

    Has India decoupled its economic growth from GHG emissions? 

    • Arguments against decoupling:
        • The Economic Survey does not clarify whether the observed decoupling is absolute (declining emissions with GDP growth) or relative (emissions rising slower than GDP).
        • India has achieved economy-wide relative decoupling since 1990, with GDP growing six-fold while GHG emissions have only tripled. However, absolute decoupling has not been achieved, as emissions continue to rise.
        • Agriculture and manufacturing, major contributors to India’s GHG emissions, require detailed sectoral analysis.
    • Argument in favour of decoupling:
      • The Economic Survey indicates that between 2005 and 2019, India’s GDP grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7%, while GHG emissions grew at a CAGR of only 4%.
      • India has successfully reduced its emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its initial Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for 2030 eleven years ahead of schedule. This reduction indicates that India is managing to grow economically while lowering the emissions per unit of GDP.
      • India is on track to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes (installed electricity generation capacity reaching 45.4% by May 2024) through tree and forest cover by 2030, building on a carbon sink of 1.97 billion tonnes established from 2005 to 2019.

    What are the steps taken by the Government?

    The Economic Survey 2023-24 outlines several key steps taken by the Indian government to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promote sustainable development:

    • Reduction of Emission Intensity: India has successfully reduced its emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its initial Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for 2030 eleven years ahead of schedule.
      • This significant reduction demonstrates the effectiveness of various climate action strategies implemented by the government.
    • Investment in Renewable Energy: The government has made substantial progress in expanding renewable energy capacity.
      • As of May 31, 2024, non-fossil sources accounted for 45.4% of the total installed electricity generation capacity in India, up from 32% in 2014.
      • Additionally, India added 15.03 GW of solar power capacity in 2023-24, bringing the cumulative total to 82.64 GW.
    • Creation of Carbon Sinks: The survey highlights that India is on track to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes through tree and forest cover by 2030, building upon the 1.97 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent already achieved from 2005 to 2019.
    • Sovereign Green Bonds: The government has raised funds through sovereign green bonds, amounting to ₹36,000 crore in 2023, to finance public sector projects aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
    • Framework for Green Finance: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has implemented a framework for accepting green deposits and promoting renewable energy through its Priority Sector Lending (PSL) rules, fostering a green finance ecosystem in the country.
    • Adaptation Expenditure: India’s climate adaptation expenditure has increased from 3.7% of GDP in 2015-16 to 5.6% in 2021-22, indicating a greater integration of climate resilience into development plans.

    What efforts must be continued by India? (Way forward)

    • Pursuit of Absolute Decoupling: To achieve long-term climate commitments and sustainability goals, India must strive toward absolute decoupling, where economic growth continues alongside a reduction in emissions.
      • This requires comprehensive policies focused on renewable energy adoption, emission mitigation strategies, and sustainable development initiatives.
    • Investment in Renewable Energy and Climate Resilience: Continued efforts are necessary to enhance investments in renewable energy sources and technologies, alongside measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • The row over tungsten mining near Madurai

    Why in the News?

    Environmental activists protested outside the Madurai District Collector’s office (Tamil Nadu), voicing their opposition to Vedanta’s auction win for Tungsten Mining Rights in Melur, following the Ministry of Mines‘ announcement

    Why have there been protests over mining Rights?

    • Environmental Concerns: Activists and residents are vehemently opposing the tungsten mining project due to its potential impact on biodiversity. Because of the fears that mining activities could irreparably damage these sites and disrupt local ecosystems, including vital water sources like the Periyar canal.
    • Community Impact: Locals fear that mining will threaten their livelihoods, as many depend on agriculture and local resources. The protests have seen significant participation from various villages in the region, highlighting widespread community opposition to the project.
    • Political Response: The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has called for the cancellation of the mining rights and plans to introduce a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to formally reject the mining project. He emphasizes that any mining activity in these areas would be unacceptable without state consent.

    What does the Ministry of Mines say about Mining?

    • Auction of Mineral Blocks: The Nayakkarpatti Tungsten Block covering an area of over 20.16 sq. km. was proposed for auction in February 2024. Inputs were taken from the state government of Tamil Nadu before the block was put up for auction.
      • The Ministry cited the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 as the legal framework enabling this auction process.
    • Mineral Richness: The Ministry also noted that the area designated for tungsten mining was found to be rich in scheelite (a crucial ore for tungsten extraction), thus justifying its selection for mining activities.

    About the  Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957:

    • The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, provides a framework for the regulation of mining activities in India, governing the exploration, licensing, and development of minerals except for petroleum and natural gas.
    • It empowers the central government to specify major minerals and the state governments to regulate minor minerals, ensuring a structured division of responsibilities in mineral resource management.
    • Major minerals are high-value minerals that include coal, lignite, iron ore, bauxite, gold, silver, zinc, copper, manganese, and other ores critical for industrial and strategic purposes.
    • Minor minerals are low-value, non-metallic minerals primarily used in construction and local industries, such as sand, gravel, clay, building stones, marble, and slate.

    Is there a Centre-State rift?

    Yes, a notable rift exists between the Tamil Nadu government and the Union government regarding this issue.

    • Lack of State Consent: The Tamil Nadu government claims it did not provide consent for the auction and had previously communicated concerns regarding environmental implications. In contrast, the Union government contends that there was no formal opposition from Tamil Nadu during the auction process.
    • Political Tensions: This situation has led to heightened tensions between the state and central governments, with accusations from Tamil Nadu officials that their concerns were ignored by the Union government when granting mining rights to Hindustan Zinc Limited.

    Can the state government supersede the authority of the central government in this matter?

    In the context of mining rights and environmental matters, the state government cannot directly override the power of the central government. However, there are several ways available to the state government to influence or challenge the decision made by the Union government.

    • Constitutional Framework: The Indian Constitution divides powers between the Union and states; mining regulation is under the Union List, while environmental protection is in the Concurrent List, granting states authority over local environmental issues.
    • Biodiversity & Environmental Protection: States can challenge mining projects through laws like the Environmental Protection Act (1986) and Biological Diversity Act (2002), or by passing laws to protect ecologically sensitive areas.
    • State Assembly’s Role: The state legislature can pass resolutions expressing opposition to federal actions, and applying political pressure on the Union government, especially with public protests.
    • Judicial Review & Coordination: States can seek judicial review if Union actions violate constitutional or environmental laws. While states cannot override central mining rights, cooperative federalism emphasizes consultation between the Union and states.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced State-Central Coordination: Establish a more transparent and binding consultation process between the state and central governments before granting mining rights, ensuring that local concerns and state consent are prioritized, especially for ecologically sensitive areas.
    • Thorough Environmental Review: Implement a mandatory, independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for mining projects in biodiversity hotspots, incorporating input from local communities, environmental experts, and authorities to address potential ecological and socio-economic impacts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Emissions Gap Report 2024

    Why in the News?

    According to the recently released ‘Emission Gap Report 2024’ presented by UNEP, Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions have reached a new high of 57.1 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2023, a 1.3% rise compared to 2022.

    What are the key points of Emissions Gap Report 2024?

    • Urgent Emission Reduction Targets: To align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement, global greenhouse gas emissions must decrease by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels.
      • For a 2°C target, reductions of 28% by 2030 and 37% by 2035 are necessary. Current commitments and policies are insufficient, putting the world on track for a temperature rise of 2.6-3.1°C, which would lead to severe climate impacts.
    • Potential for Significant Reductions: The report highlights that it is still technically feasible to achieve the 1.5°C pathway through aggressive action, including increased deployment of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which could contribute 27% of the necessary reductions by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
      • Additionally, actions related to forests could provide around 20% of the potential reductions in both years. A comprehensive approach involving government action, investment in mitigation strategies, and international cooperation is essential to realize these opportunities.

    What are the Global Emission trends?

    • Global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have continued to rise, reaching a record high of 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2023. This marks an increase from previous years, with fossil fuel CO₂ emissions projected at 37.4 billion tonnes, up 0.8% from 2023, and total CO₂ emissions—including land-use changes—projected to be 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024.
    • The increase is attributed primarily to rising emissions from major economies such as China and India, with India experiencing the largest relative increase at 6.1% and China contributing the most in absolute terms.
    • The overall trend indicates that despite some positive developments in renewable energy adoption, there is no sign that global fossil fuel emissions have peaked, necessitating immediate and substantial reductions to meet climate targets.

     

    What is the progress of G20 countries towards NDCs?

    • Mixed Progress on NDCs: Among G20 countries, six members (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, and Turkey) are projected to meet their unconditional Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets with current policies.
      • However, eight members (Argentina, Australia, Canada, the EU, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States) require further action to achieve their targets.
      • This indicates a significant disparity in progress across different G20 nations, with many needing to be on track to meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
    • Need for Enhanced Ambition: The G20 must significantly ramp up its climate ambitions in the next round of NDCs to align with the goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This includes committing to substantial emissions reductions—42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035.

    What is the NCD target? 

    • Collective Emission Reduction Goals: G20 countries have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), targeting a 42% reduction by 2030 and 57% by 2035, aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit warming below 2°C.
    • Diverse Member Targets and Progress: G20 members have varied NDC targets, such as China aiming to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 with a 60-65% reduction in carbon intensity, while Argentina caps net emissions at 483 million tons of CO2 equivalent.

    What is needed to bridge the gap between 2030 and 2035 goals? (Way forward)

    • Significant Annual Emission Reductions: A reduction of 7.5% per year until 2035 is necessary to align with the 1.5°C pathway, while a 4% annual reduction is needed for the 2°C target.
    • Investment in Renewable Energy: The increased deployment of solar and wind technologies could deliver approximately 27% of the total emission reduction potential by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
    • Action on Forests: Protecting and restoring forests could provide around 20% of the required reductions in both years.
    • Comprehensive Policy Measures: A whole-of-government approach is essential, maximizing socioeconomic and environmental co-benefits while minimizing trade-offs.
    • Increased Mitigation Investment: A minimum six-fold increase in investments for climate mitigation is critical, necessitating reforms in global financial systems and strong private sector involvement.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases that cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Eurasian Little Gull spotted in Delhi for first time

    Why in the News?

    For the first time, the Eurasian Little Gull was spotted in the National Capital Region (NCR) near Sultanpur National Park at Chandu.

    About the Eurasian Little Gull:

    Details
    Overview and Physical Characteristics
    • Scientific Name: Larus minutus
    • Common Name: Eurasian Little Gull
    • Size: 30-33 cm in length, wingspan 75-85 cm; Weight: 70–150 grams
    Habitat and Features
    • Breeding Habitat: Marshy wetlands, shallow freshwater lakes, and estuaries in Northern Eurasia (Russia, Eastern Europe).
    • Winter Migration: Offshore waters, coastal areas, and estuaries around the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea.
    • Migratory Pattern: Migrations from northern breeding grounds to warmer regions in winter.
    Conservation Status
    • Conservation Status: Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
    • Rare sightings of the species in India, particularly inland regions like NCR.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are-

    (a) Birds

    (b) Primates

    (c) Reptiles

    (d) Amphibians

  • Polavaram Project Controversy

    Why in the News?

    The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has restarted its protest against the Polavaram multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh, claiming it will flood large areas in Malkangiri, Odisha, displacing many tribal communities.

    What were the recommendations by the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) 1969?

    The Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT), was established to resolve water-sharing disputes concerning Godavari River water among the states of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh (now Chhattisgarh). It made several key recommendations regarding the utilization of Godavari River water. Notable points include:

    • Water Allocation: The Tribunal allowed Andhra Pradesh to divert 80 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of Godavari water at 75% dependability for irrigation and other uses, which could also substitute releases from the Nagarjunasagar project for the Krishna delta.
    • Inter-State Agreements: The Tribunal recognized various inter-state agreements that specified how water from the Godavari and its tributaries could be utilised, ensuring equitable distribution among the states involved.
    • Project Approvals: The GWDT endorsed the construction of projects like Polavaram, provided they adhered to specified Full Reservoir Levels (FRL) and operational guidelines.

    What are the social and environmental impacts of the Polavaram Project?

    • Social Impact: The project is expected to displace over 150,000 people across approximately 276 villages, with many of these being tribal communities. For every five acres irrigated, one tribal family is projected to lose their land.
      • Infrastructure Strain: The project has faced funding challenges for rehabilitation efforts, leading to halted work on necessary infrastructure like canals, which could exacerbate social tensions among displaced populations.
    • Environmental Impact: The dam’s backwaters will submerge an estimated 3,731 hectares of forest land. The environmental impact assessments have raised concerns about ecosystem disruption, including increased vulnerability to erosion and regional landslides.

    How is the project being managed politically and administratively?

    • National Project Status: Declared a national project under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014, the Central Government is responsible for executing the project while ensuring compliance with environmental and rehabilitation norms.
    • Polavaram Project Authority: A governing body has been established to oversee project execution, comprising representatives from both state and central governments. This authority is tasked with ensuring timely execution and adherence to regulatory requirements.
    • Political Dynamics: The project has become a focal point for regional politics, particularly as parties like the BJD leverage opposition against it to bolster their regional identity amidst changing political landscapes in states like Odisha.

    What are the legal and regulatory challenges faced by the Polavaram Project?

    • Ongoing Litigation: Multiple states have challenged the project in court on grounds of inadequate environmental assessments and potential adverse impacts on their territories. Legal disputes have persisted since at least 2011, complicating project timelines.
    • Regulatory Compliance Issues: Environmental clearances for the project have been contentious, particularly following changes in flood situation estimates that were not incorporated into updated designs. This has raised questions about compliance with earlier environmental impact assessments conducted in 2005.
    • Funding Challenges: Financial constraints have hindered progress on rehabilitation efforts for displaced populations, leading to further legal scrutiny regarding compliance with social justice norms and commitments made during project approval processes.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Impact Assessment and Mitigation: Conduct updated environmental and social impact assessments, including backwater studies, and implement robust mitigation measures for displaced populations, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
    • Strengthen Inter-State Collaboration: Establish a transparent and inclusive mechanism involving all affected states to address concerns, promote equitable resource sharing, and expedite the resolution of legal and administrative challenges.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • Building on the revival of the manufacturing sector

    Why in the News?

    Manufacturing output grew by 21.5% in 2022-23, but the GVA (Gross value addition) only grew by 7.3%. This is because input costs increased sharply by 24.4%, making production more expensive. As a result, even though industries produced more, their profits and value-added were reduced.

    Note: GVA represents the value added by industries, while manufacturing output refers to total production. GVA reflects the economic contribution, factoring in costs like inputs.

    What is the present scenario of India’s manufacturing sector?

    • Growth Momentum: India’s manufacturing sector is experiencing significant growth, with a reported output increase of 21.5% in 2022-23, as indicated by the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI).
      • This growth is attributed largely to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which has played a crucial role in boosting production across various sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles.
    • Sectoral Contributions: Key sectors benefiting from the PLI scheme, such as basic metals and motor vehicles, collectively contributed 58% to total manufacturing output, showcasing robust performance driven by these incentives.
    • Positive Economic Indicators: The gross value added (GVA) from manufacturing grew by 7.3%, highlighting an overall recovery in the sector post-COVID-19 disruptions.

    What are the current challenges facing the manufacturing sector?

    • Input Cost Surge: A significant challenge is the rising input prices, which increased by 24.4% in 2022-23. This surge has created a gap between manufacturing output growth and GVA growth, indicating that while production volumes are increasing, profitability is being squeezed due to higher costs.
    • Regional Imbalance: Manufacturing activity is heavily concentrated in a few states—Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh—accounting for over 54% of total manufacturing GVA. This concentration limits equitable development across the country.
    • Skill Development Needs: There is a pressing need for skill enhancement to meet the demands of evolving manufacturing technologies and processes.

    How can digital transformation contribute to the future of manufacturing?

    • Adoption of Advanced Technologies: Digital transformation can enhance manufacturing efficiency through automation, data analytics, and IoT (Internet of Things) integration. This can lead to improved productivity and reduced operational costs.
    • Supply Chain Optimization: Digital tools can streamline supply chain management, making it more resilient to disruptions and better able to respond to global demand fluctuations.
    • Enhanced R&D Capabilities: Investing in digital technologies can foster innovation in product development and advanced manufacturing techniques, positioning India as a leader in high-tech manufacturing sectors.

    What strategies can be implemented to stimulate growth in manufacturing? (Way forward)

    • Expand PLI Scheme Scope: To further stimulate growth, the PLI scheme should be extended to include labour-intensive sectors such as apparel and furniture, as well as emerging industries like aerospace and space technology. This could unlock new growth opportunities and reduce import dependency.
    • Streamline Import Regime: Implementing a simplified three-tier tariff system for imports—0–2.5% for raw materials, 2.5%–5% for intermediates, and 5%–7.5% for finished goods—could help lower input costs and enhance competitiveness.
    • Focus on MSMEs: Tailoring PLI incentives for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering capital investment thresholds could empower these businesses to scale up and innovate.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • [pib] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has provided state-wise details of farmers registered under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY).
      • Top Three States: Haryana (5,74,467), Bihar (3,45,038), Chhattisgarh (2,02,734).
      • Bottom Three States/UT: Lakshadweep (72), Ladakh (114), Goa (150).
    • Recently, the PMKMY (launched on 12th September 2019) has completed 5 successful years.

    About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Details Type: Central Sector Scheme
    Objective: To provide a voluntary, contributory pension scheme for farmers aged 18–40 years, ensuring ₹3,000/month pension after they turn 60 years of age.
    Implementation & Structural Mandate Implemented by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
    Pension Fund Manager: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India
    State-wise Registration: Registered farmers are managed by the respective state governments in collaboration with LIC. The scheme encourages a structured approach involving the collection of contributions and government matching funds.
    Contribution: Farmers contribute between ₹55 and ₹200 per month, depending on their entry age.
    Beneficiaries & Benefits Beneficiaries: Farmers aged 18–40 years.
    Benefits: Assured pension of ₹3,000 per month post-60 years, matching contribution by the Government of India, administered by LIC.
    Exclusions: Income taxpayers, members of government pension schemes, and those already enrolled in other pension schemes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (2020)

    1. Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
    2. Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
    3. Social Capital development
    4. Free electricity supply to farmers
    5. Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
    6. Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 2, 3 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

  • [pib] CAR T-Cell Therapy

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has been a key supporter of research projects focusing on CAR T-cell therapies for cancers.

    About CAR T-Cell Therapy:

    What is it?
    • Acronym  for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T–Cell Therapy;
    • Innovative  immunotherapy in which T-cells (a type of white blood cell) are genetically modified to express a receptor (CAR) that targets specific proteins on cancer cells.
    • T-cells are part of the immune system and help identify and eliminate infected or cancerous cells.
    Objective of the Therapy
    • To treat blood cancers, especially B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL) and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (B-NHL).
    • Aimed at patients whose disease relapsed or was resistant to conventional treatments (chemotherapy, radiation).
    • Specifically targets CD19, a protein found on the surface of B-cells, which includes cancerous B-cells.
    Implementation and Structural Mandate
    • Developed jointly by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-Bombay) and Tata Memorial Center (TMC), Mumbai since 2015.
    • Approved by DCGI (Drug Controller General of India) in March 2021 for Phase 1 trials in children and adults with relapsed B-ALL and B-NHL.
    • Supported by academic grants from Department of Biotechnology and government agencies.
    • Trials were conducted at Tata Memorial Center (TMC), and other hospitals.
    Future Scope for Phase II
    • Phase 1 Trials: Conducted from 2021 to 2023 on children and adolescents with B-ALL and adults with B-NHL, with promising results matching international standards in terms of efficacy and safety.
    • Phase 2 Trials: Have been approved and are currently ongoing. These trials will expand on the efficacy and long-term safety of the therapy, including larger cohorts of patients.

    Future Scope: Holds the potential for expanding to other cancers, such as Multiple Myeloma, Glioblastoma, and Hepatocellular Carcinomas, based on continued research and results from Phase II trials.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?

    (a) They protect the environmental allergens body.
    (b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
    (c) They act as immuno-suppressants in the body.
    (d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.