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GS Paper: GS3

  • In news: Yala Glacier

    Why in the News?

    Yala Glacier in Nepal is predicted to disappear by the 2040s due to rapid retreat and mass loss. It is the only glacier in the Himalayas listed on the Global Glacier Casualty List, an initiative launched in 2024 to document endangered or vanished glaciers worldwide.

    Note:  The UN has designated 2025 as the International Year of Glacier Preservation, with March 21st to be observed annually as World Glacier Day starting from 2025.

    About the Yala Glacier 

    • Yala Glacier is located in the Langtang Valley, central Nepal, and is influenced by the Indian summer monsoon.
    • It is one of the most studied glaciers in Nepal and represents the Hindu Kush Himalayan region in the World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS) database.
    • The glacier has been monitored for over a decade using stakes, snow pits, and satellite images, providing crucial data on the state of Himalayan glaciers.
    • It is the only glacier in the Himalayas included in the Global Glacier Casualty List, a recognition of its critical status.
    • It plays a vital role in studying the cryosphere, a critical water resource supporting 240 million people in the Himalayan region.

    Retreat of Yala Glacier

    • Yala Glacier is projected to disappear by the 2040s, reflecting the growing threat to Himalayan glaciers.
    • It has retreated by 680 meters between 1974 and 2021, with a 36% reduction in area during this period.
    • Its elevation, which ranged between 5,170m and 5,750m in 2011, has significantly declined.
    • The glacier has lost so much mass that it no longer meets scientific standards for effective observation.
    • The Hindu Kush Himalayan cryosphere is warming twice as fast as the global average, leading to rapid glacial retreat.

    About the Global Glacier Casualty List

    • It was launched in 2024 by a consortium of institutions including Rice University, World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and UNESCO.
    • It documents endangered or vanished glaciers.
    • Glaciers Listed: Includes 15 glaciers, such as:
      • Pico Humboldt Glacier (Venezuela): Disappeared in 2024.
      • Sarenne Glacier (France): Vanished in 2023.
      • Dagu Glacier (China): Categorized as “critically endangered,” expected to vanish by 2030.
    • Significance:
      • Highlights the urgency of glacier preservation, as these ice masses store 70% of global freshwater and influence water security for billions of people worldwide.
      • Reinforces the need for global cooperation to address the accelerating loss of glaciers due to climate change

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following Pairs :

    Glacier: River

    1. Bandarpunch : Yamuna
    2. Bara Shigri : Chenab
    3. Milam : Mandakini
    4. Siachen : Nubra
    5. Zemu : Manas

    Which of the following pairs given above are correctly matched?

    (a) 1,2 and 4

    (b) 1,3 and 4

    (c) 2 and 5

    (d) 3 and 5

  • [18th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: India’s real growth rate and the forecast

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on major issues like the methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)  (2021) and steady GDP growth and low inflation (2019).

    The real GDP growth of 6.4% in 2024-25, while slightly below the Reserve Bank of India’s forecast of 6.6% which should not be seen as disappointing. The growth rate is expected to improve in the second half, with manufacturing showing a significant slowdown, contributing to a decline from 8.2% growth in the previous year.

    Today’s editorial highlights the growth rates of India in Nominal and real terms and what are the factors behind the low growth rate of India.  This content can be used in mains answer GS paper 3 related to GDP of India.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The First Advance Estimates (FAE) of National Accounts for 2024-25 indicate a real GDP growth of 6.4% and a nominal GDP growth of 9.7%.

    Note: The National Statistical Office (NSO) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) releases the FAE.

    What is the difference between Real and Nominal GDP growth rates? 

    • Real GDP growth rate is the rate of change in the volume of goods and services produced, while nominal GDP growth rate is the rate of change in the total value of goods and services produced. 
    • The nominal GDP growth rate includes the effects of inflation, while the real GDP growth rate does not.

    What factors are contributing to the slowdown in India’s GDP growth?

    Decline in Government Investment: The Government of India’s capital expenditure growth has been negative at (-)12.3%, which has significantly impacted overall GDP growth. Limited capital expenditure, reaching only 46.2% of the budget target after eight months, is a primary reason for the slowdown.
    Weak Manufacturing Sector Performance: The manufacturing sector has experienced a sharp decline in growth from 9.9% in 2023-24 to 5.3% in 2024-25, contributing to lower Gross Value Added (GVA) figures.
    Global Economic Uncertainty: Anticipated uncertainties stemming from global economic conditions, including changes in leadership in major economies like the United States, may hinder India’s export performance and overall economic stability.
    Lower Private Consumption Growth: Although Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) is projected to grow by 7.3%, this is still a potential concern if consumer confidence does not recover adequately.
    Previous High Base Effect: The high GDP growth of 8.2% in 2023-24 creates a challenging comparison, leading to perceptions of slowdown even when current growth rates may be consistent with long-term potential.

    How will different sectors of the economy perform in the upcoming fiscal year?

    • Agriculture and Allied Sectors: Growth in agriculture is expected to improve significantly, with estimates suggesting a rise to 3.8% compared to 1.4% in the previous year.
    • Manufacturing Sector Recovery: There is an expectation for recovery in manufacturing, although it remains uncertain given past performance trends.
    • Construction and Services Sectors: The construction sector is projected to grow at around 8.6%, while financial services are expected to see growth of approximately 7.3%, indicating resilience and potential for expansion.
    • Private Consumption: Continued growth in private consumption is anticipated which is driven by rural demand and government spending initiatives.

    What are the implications of these growth forecasts for policy and investment?

    • Need for Sustained Government Capital Expenditure: The government must prioritize capital expenditure to stimulate economic growth and encourage private investment, targeting at least a 20% increase based on revised estimates.
    • Focus on Structural Reforms: Policymakers should consider structural reforms that enhance productivity across sectors, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture, to support sustainable growth.
    • Investment in Infrastructure: Increased investment in infrastructure projects can provide a multiplier effect on the economy, fostering job creation and boosting demand.
    • Monitoring Global Economic Trends: Given the potential impact of global economic conditions on domestic growth, India should remain vigilant and adaptable to external shocks while focusing on strengthening domestic demand.
    • Long-Term Growth Strategies: With a potential long-term real GDP growth rate of around 6.5%, strategies should be developed to ensure that this target is met consistently over the next five years through innovation and investment in human capital.

    Way forward: 

    • Accelerate Infrastructure Investment: The government should prioritize and fast-track capital expenditure, especially in infrastructure, to stimulate economic activity, enhance private sector participation, and create jobs, aiming for at least 20% growth in capital investment for the upcoming fiscal year.
    • Enhance Sectoral Productivity through Reforms: Implement structural reforms in key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and services to boost productivity, reduce bottlenecks, and ensure sustainable long-term growth, focusing on innovation and skill development.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/indias-real-growth-rate-and-the-forecast/article69109601.ece#:~:text=term%20growth%20prospects-,In%20the%20light%20of%20a%20potential%20growth%20rate%20of%206.5,a%20flash%20in%20the%20pan

  • RBI allows NRI to open rupee accounts abroad with authorized banks

    Why in the News?

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), along with the Central government, has reviewed the rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA) to make it easier to carry out cross-border transactions in Indian rupees (INR) according to a statement by the RBI.

    What are the recent changes made in FEMA regulations by RBI?

    • Opening Rupee Accounts for Non-Residents: Overseas branches of authorized dealer (AD) banks can now open rupee accounts for non-residents, enabling them to conduct current and capital account transactions with Indian residents.
    • Settlement of Transactions: Non-residents can use their balances in repatriable rupee accounts, including Special Non-Resident Rupee Accounts (SNRAs) and Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs), to settle transactions with other non-residents abroad.
    • Investment Opportunities: Balances in these accounts can be utilized for foreign investments, including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in non-debt instruments, thereby promoting rupee-based investments.
    • Flexibility for Exporters: Indian exporters are now permitted to open foreign currency accounts overseas to receive export proceeds and use these funds for import payments, enhancing operational flexibility.
    • Support for Local Currency Transactions: The new guidelines support cross-border transactions in local currencies, reducing reliance on dominant foreign currencies like the US Dollar

    What is Internationalisation of Rupee?

    • The internationalization of the rupee refers to the process of increasing the use and acceptance of the Indian rupee (INR) in global trade, investment, and cross-border transactions. This initiative aims to promote the rupee as a viable alternative to dominant currencies like the US dollar in international markets.

    What are the key features of the Internationalisation of Rupee?

    • Cross-Border Transactions: The primary goal is to facilitate more cross-border transactions in rupees, allowing businesses and individuals to conduct trade and investments without relying on foreign currencies.
    • Current and Capital Account Transactions: Initially focused on promoting the rupee for import and export trade, the process will extend to other current account transactions and eventually capital account transactions, enabling investments in rupee-denominated assets.
    • Full Convertibility: Achieving full capital account convertibility is essential for internationalization, meaning there would be no restrictions on converting rupees into foreign currency or vice versa for investments and loans.
    • Strengthening Economic Sovereignty: Reducing reliance on foreign currencies enhances India’s economic sovereignty and minimizes exposure to currency fluctuations, thereby stabilizing trade relations.
    • Enhancing Global Trade: By allowing direct transactions in rupees, internationalization can simplify cross-border trade processes, eliminate currency conversion needs, and reduce transaction costs.

     

    What are the significance of Internationalisation of Rupee? 

    • Reducing Exchange Rate Risks: By promoting INR usage in international trade, India can mitigate exchange rate risks associated with reliance on major currencies like the USD.
    • Enhancing Trade Competitiveness: Facilitating rupee transactions can improve India’s trade competitiveness by lowering transaction costs and simplifying payment processes for exporters and importers.
    • Strengthening Economic Sovereignty: Greater acceptance of the INR in global markets can enhance India’s economic sovereignty and reduce vulnerability to external economic shocks and geopolitical tensions.
    • Encouraging Foreign Investment: The ability to conduct transactions in INR may attract more foreign investors looking for stable investment opportunities in India

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Global Agreements: Expand bilateral and multilateral trade agreements to encourage invoicing and settlement in rupees, promoting its global acceptability.
    • Enhance Domestic Financial Infrastructure: Improve financial systems to support seamless cross-border rupee transactions, including achieving full capital account convertibility and increasing trust in the INR.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India? (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • What is Central Suspect Registry?

    Why in the News?

    In just three months since its launch, the Central Suspect Registry (CSR) has successfully declined over 6 lakh fraudulent transactions, saving ₹1,800 crore, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

    About the Central Suspect Registry (CSR)

    • The CSR aims to strengthen fraud risk management by maintaining a comprehensive registry of cybercrime suspects.
    • It contains data on 1.4 million cybercriminals linked to financial fraud and other cybercrimes.
    • The registry was created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • The registry is accessible to states, Union Territories, central investigation agencies, intelligence agencies, and financial institutions.
    • Developed with inputs from banks and financial institutions, the CSR serves as a central database consolidating cybercrime-related data.

    Significance of the CSR:

    • Integration with NCRP: Uses data from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal to identify potential cybercriminals.
    • Fraud Detection and Prevention: Helps financial institutions and law enforcement agencies identify and block fraudulent activities.
    • Support from Financial Entities: The RBI has directed all banks to integrate the registry into their systems for fraud prevention.
    • Impact:
      • Over 6.10 lakh fraudulent transactions blocked, saving ₹1,800 crore as of December 1, 2024.
      • 8.67 lakh mule accounts frozen by banks and financial intermediaries.
      • 7 lakh SIM cards and 1.4 lakh mobile devices blocked.
      • Financial fraud transactions amounting to ₹3,850 crore saved since 2021 through the Citizen Financial Cyber Frauds Reporting and Management System.
      • 1,03,151 suspicious online content items blocked under the powers conferred by the Information Technology Act, 2000.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1. Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer
    2. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant wilfully damages it, if proved so
    3. Cost of hiring a specialised consultant to minimise the loss in case of cyber extortion
    4. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?

    Why in the News?

    Since earlier this month Los Angeles has been gripped by devastating wildfires fueled by a rare and alarming meteorological phenomenon known as hydroclimate whiplash.

    What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?

    • Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme shifts between periods of intensely wet weather and dangerously dry conditions.
    • Characteristics:
      • Alternates between heavy rainfall and severe drought.
      • Typically results in amplified weather extremes, such as floods followed by wildfires.
    • Global Trend:
      • Hydroclimate whiplash has increased by 31% to 66% worldwide since the mid-20th century, largely due to climate change.
      • Projections indicate a 113% rise in such events during sub-seasonal periods with a 3°C increase in global temperatures.

    Causes of Hydroclimate Whiplash

    • Rising global temperatures intensify hydrological extremes, causing prolonged periods of rainfall and drought.
    • Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfalls during wet periods and exacerbating droughts during dry phases.
    • Shifts in El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycles influence precipitation and temperature extremes.
    • Changes in ocean currents and wind patterns disrupt normal weather cycles, contributing to hydroclimate variability.
    • Unusual delays in wet or dry seasons can magnify hydroclimate swings, as seen in regions like California.

    How did this phenomenon cause wildfire in LA?

    • The usual wet season, which begins in October, failed during 2024-25, exacerbating dry conditions and increasing fire hazards.
    • As dry air moves from high-pressure regions over southwestern deserts to low-pressure zones off the California coast, it warms and dries further, creating ideal wildfire conditions.

    PYQ:

    [2011] La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino?

    1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.

    2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • India successfully tests Indian Army’s first ‘Bhargavastra’ counter-drone micro missiles

    Why in the News?

    India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology by successfully testing its first domestically developed Bhargavastra micro-missile system, designed to counter swarm drone threats.

    'Bhargavastra'

    What is Bhargavastra?

    • Bhargavastra is India’s first micro-missile-based counter-drone system, developed to address the increasing threat posed by swarm drones.
    • It is capable of detecting and neutralizing small aerial vehicles at ranges exceeding 6 km.
    • Developed by Economic Explosives Ltd, the system is designed for the Indian Army, with interest also expressed by the Indian Air Force.
    • The system is tailored to provide a cost-effective solution for countering drone threats while preserving advanced air defense systems for larger challenges.

    Features of the Bhargavastra Missile System

    • Detection Range: Can detect small aerial vehicles at distances greater than 6 km.
    • Neutralization Capability: Employs guided micro munitions to engage and destroy drone targets.
    • Simultaneous Launches: Capable of launching over 64 micro missiles simultaneously, enabling effective countermeasures against swarm formations.
    • Mobile Platform: Mounted on a mobile platform for rapid deployment in diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions.
    • Versatile Design: Engineered to operate across varied terrains, meeting the specific requirements of the Indian military.

    PYQ:

    [2014] With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    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

  • Commissioning of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer

    Commissioning of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer

    Why in the News?

    Three frontline combatants—INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer—were commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.

    About the Ships/Vessels

    Details
    INS Nilgiri
    • Type: First Ship of Project 17A (Nilgiri-class stealth frigates)
    • Role: Multi-mission operations in deep-sea environments
    • Builders: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, and GRSE, Kolkata
    • Features: Integrated construction, supersonic missiles, MRSAMs, advanced weaponry
    • Timeline: Keel laid Dec 28, 2017; Launched Sep 28, 2019; Delivered Dec 20, 2024
    • Significance: Enhances anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities
    INS Surat
    • Type: Last Ship of Project 15B (stealth guided missile destroyers)
    • Role: Advanced stealth destroyer for offensive and network-centric warfare
    • Builders: MDL
    • Features: AI-enabled systems, advanced weaponry (surface-to-air missiles, torpedoes), COGAG propulsion
    • Timeline: Commissioned in 2024; follows Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, and Imphal
    • Significance: India’s first AI-enabled warship with advanced IT tools
    INS Vaghsheer
    • Type: Last Submarine of Project 75 (Scorpene-class submarines)
    • Role: Stealthy, multi-role operations (anti-surface, anti-submarine warfare)
    • Builders: Collaboration with French Naval Group
    • Features: Diesel-electric propulsion, wire-guided torpedoes, modular design for future AIP upgrades
    • Timeline: Sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine; follows Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, and Vagir
    • Significance: Enhances India’s underwater warfare capabilities

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship
    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine
    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

  • [pib] QS World Future Skills Index

    Why in the News?

    PM has expressed his happiness as the QS World Future Skills Index ranks India 2nd for Digital Skills, ahead of Canada and Germany.

    About the QS World Future Skills Index

    • The index is launched by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a London-based higher education firm, the index evaluates countries on their readiness to meet evolving job market demands.
    • It assesses over 190 countries, analyzing:
      • 280 million job postings
      • 5 million employer skill demands
      • 17.5 million research papers
    • 4 Key Indicators:
      • Skills Fit: Alignment between workforce skills and employer demands.
      • Academic Readiness: Higher education’s capability to prepare students for future skills.
      • Future of Work: Job market readiness for emerging skills in digital, AI, and green technologies.
      • Economic Transformation: Capacity for innovation and sustainable growth.
    • Countries are classified into 4 categories as:
      • Future Skills Pioneers
      • Practitioners
      • Contenders (India’s category)
      • Aspirants

    Key Observations  

    • India ranks 2nd globally in digital, AI, and green skills, showcasing its leadership in technology and sustainability.
    • It achieved a perfect score in economic capacity, reflecting strong growth potential.
    • However, India scored poorly in skills fit (59.1) and sustainability innovation (15.6), highlighting gaps in education and innovation alignment.
    • Developed nations like the USA, UK, and Germany lead as “future skills pioneers.”

    Significance of the Index

    • The report serves as a global benchmark for readiness in meeting evolving job market demands.
    • It highlights the importance of digital, AI, and green skills for future industries.
    • It provides actionable insights for policy reforms in education and workforce training.
    • It positions India to address gaps and leverage its strengths to secure a competitive global role.

    PYQ:

    [2022] What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India?

  • [pib] 9 Years of Startup India

    Why in the News?

    On January 16 (National Startup Day), 2025, India marks 9 successful years of Startup India, a flagship initiative that has revolutionized the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country.

    About the Startup India Initiative

    • Startup India is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India on January 16, 2016, to create a robust ecosystem for nurturing startups and innovation.
    • It aims to drive economic growth and generate large-scale employment opportunities, with a focus on empowering entrepreneurs through innovation and regulatory support.
    • The PM first announced the initiative on August 15, 2015, during his Independence Day address at Red Fort, New Delhi.
    • The program aims to establish 75+ startup hubs across India and encourages entrepreneurship in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
      • A related scheme, Stand-Up India, was launched on April 5, 2016, to facilitate loans between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore for SCs, STs and women entrepreneurs to establish Greenfield enterprises.
    • The program emphasizes the 3 CsCapital, Courage, and Connections, which Prime Minister Modi identifies as essential for entrepreneurial success.
    • It seeks to eliminate restrictive policies, including those related to License Raj, foreign investment proposals, and land permissions, ensuring ease of doing business.

    Definition of a Startup (as per DPIIT)

    • A startup must be registered as a private limited company, partnership firm, or limited liability partnership (LLP) in India.
    • The entity must not have completed 10 years since its incorporation.
    • Annual turnover should not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year since incorporation.
    • The startup should focus on innovative products or services and demonstrate scalability, potential for wealth creation, or employment generation.
    • Entities formed through splitting or restructuring of existing businesses are not classified as startups.
    • Startup related terminologies analogously used in India:
      • Unicorn: A startup valued at over $1 billion.
      • Decacorn: A startup valued at over $10 billion.
      • Hectocorn: A startup valued at over $100 billion.
      • Soonicorn: A rapidly growing startup expected to become a unicorn soon.
      • Mincorn: A startup valued at less than $1 billion.

    Key Achievements of Startup India

    • India is the third-largest startup hub globally, following the United States and China.
    • DPIIT-recognized startups grew from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 by January 2025.
    • Women-led startups accounted for 73,151 entities as of October 2024, with 48% of startups having at least one woman director by December 2023.
    • Startups have generated 16.6 lakh direct jobs from 2016 to October 2024.
    • Over 50% of startups originated from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, including emerging hubs like Indore, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.

    Key Government Initiatives for Startups:

    • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), 2021: Provides financial assistance to early-stage startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization.
      • Total allocated amount: ₹945 crore for startups over a four-year period.
    • Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), 2022: Offers collateral-free loans to startups through Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs, and SEBI-registered AIFs.
      • Covers loans up to ₹10 crore for eligible startups.
    • Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), 2016: Established with a ₹10,000 crore corpus to provide funding support to startups through SEBI-registered Venture Capital Funds.
      • By 2024, ₹7,980 crore was committed to 99 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), benefiting over 800 startups.
    • BHASKAR (Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry), 2024: A centralized platform aimed at streamlining interactions within India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
      • Fosters innovation, collaboration, and startup growth through knowledge-sharing and networking.
    • Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP): A sub-component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
      • Supported 3,02,825 enterprises as of 2024, creating 6,26,848 jobs.
    • TIDE 2.0 (Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs): Focuses on supporting startups in emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and Blockchain.
      • Established 51 incubators and supported 1,235 startups.
    • GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups), 2024: Aims to boost startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
      • Total outlay: ₹490 crore over five years, targeting over 1,500 startups.
    • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Operates under NITI Aayog to foster innovation and entrepreneurship through the establishment of Atal Incubation Centers (AICs).
      • Provides physical infrastructure and mentorship for startups to scale effectively.
    • Startup Mahakumbh: A flagship event organized to bring together startups, unicorns, investors, and industry leaders.
      • First edition in 2019 saw over 500 participants; the fifth edition is scheduled for March 7-8, 2025, in New Delhi.

    PYQ:

    [2014] What does venture capital mean?

    (a) A short-term capital provided to industries

    (b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs

    (c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses

    (d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries

  • No, legal guarantee for MSP is not a “folly”

    Why in the News?

    There is an ongoing heated discussion about whether farmers should be given a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP).

    Is a legal guarantee for MSP feasible within India’s economic framework?The arguments in favour of the legalisation of MSP: 

    • Protects Farmers from Market Fluctuations: Farmers often face volatile market prices due to surplus production, inadequate infrastructure, or global competition. A legal guarantee for MSP ensures a minimum income and shields them from sudden price crashes.
    • Example: Crops like onions and tomatoes frequently see price collapses that leave farmers unable to cover costs.
    • Addresses Rural Distress and Ensures Livelihood Security: A guaranteed MSP provides a reliable source of income, reducing poverty and addressing the rural distress that drives issues like farmer suicides.
    • Example: In drought-prone regions, assured MSP acts as a safety net against the dual impacts of climate change and market failures.
    • Supports National Food Security: Incentivizing farmers through a guaranteed MSP ensures the continued production of essential crops, securing food for the nation and stabilizing food prices for consumers.
    • Example: Government procurement of rice and wheat at MSP forms the backbone of the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring affordable food for millions.

    The arguments against the legalisation of MSP: 

    • Risk of Market Distortions: A legally enforced MSP could disrupt natural price discovery, discouraging private investment in agriculture and creating inefficiencies in the market. Example: Guaranteed MSP could encourage overproduction of certain crops, leading to supply gluts and environmental degradation.
    • Unsustainable Fiscal Burden: Implementing MSP for a wide range of crops would require massive public expenditure, diverting resources from other developmental priorities like healthcare and education. 

     

    What mechanisms can ensure farmers receive the MSP without direct government purchases?

    • Widening Food Basket: Expanding the food basket in the Public Distribution System (PDS) and increasing procurement levels at MSP can help ensure farmers receive fair prices without direct purchases.
    • Market Intervention Schemes: Establishing targeted market intervention schemes can prevent prices from falling below the MSP, thus providing farmers with necessary price support.
    • Price Deficit Payment (PDP): A legally mandated compensation mechanism for farmers when market prices fall below the MSP could be implemented. This would not require direct procurement but would ensure farmers are compensated based on official data regarding area sown and average productivity.

    What are the broader implications of a legal MSP guarantee on agricultural policy and farmer welfare?

    • Social Contract: The demand for a legally guaranteed MSP reflects an unwritten social contract between the Indian state and farmers. Breaching this contract could lead to further disenfranchisement of farmers facing challenges like climate change and global competition.
    • Market Dynamics: A legal guarantee could alter market dynamics by ensuring that farmers are not solely dependent on volatile market conditions. This might encourage more stable agricultural production and investment in rural areas.
    • Political Considerations: Given the electoral implications of food prices in a democracy, a legally guaranteed MSP could compel governments to prioritise farmer welfare over consumer price suppression, potentially leading to more balanced agricultural policies.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Decentralized Procurement and PDP Mechanisms: Expand the food basket under PDS and introduce Price Deficit Payment (PDP) schemes to ensure farmers receive MSP without burdening government finances through direct procurement. This would also reduce inefficiencies in distribution.
    • Promote Diversification and Agri-Infrastructure: Encourage crop diversification by linking MSP with environmentally sustainable and high-value crops, supported by improved storage, transportation, and market access to minimize post-harvest losses and enhance farmer incomes sustainably.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from the low-income trap? (UPSC IAS/2018)