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GS Paper: GS3

  • How to bring about White Revolution 2.0

    Why in the news?

    The government’s latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2022-23 shows milk emerging as India’s top food spend item, both in rural and urban areas

    Key facts as per survey-

    • The monthly value of milk and dairy products consumed by an average person in rural India, at Rs 314, was ahead of vegetables (Rs 203), cereals (Rs 185), egg, fish & meat (Rs 185), fruits (Rs 140), edible oil (Rs 136), spices (Rs 113) and pulses (Rs 76).
    • The HCES data reveals the same for urban India: Milk (Rs 466), fruits (Rs 246), vegetables (Rs 245), cereals (Rs 235), egg, fish & meat (Rs 231), edible oil (Rs 153), spices (Rs 138) and pulses (Rs 90).

    The challenges as per the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)-

    • Rising Milk Prices: Over the last five years, the all-India modal price of milk has surged from Rs 42 to Rs 60 per liter, with a notable increase from Rs 52 to Rs 60 in the past year alone. This upward trend in milk prices poses a challenge for consumers in terms of affordability.
    • Inflationary Pressure: The increase in milk prices is attributed to inflationary pressures, impacting consumer demand. Higher prices may lead to reduced consumption or shifts to alternative products, affecting the dairy industry’s revenue and profitability.
    • Increased Input Costs: The cost of fodder, feed, and raw materials/ingredients has risen significantly. Dairies are compelled to raise procurement prices paid to farmers to offset these increased input costs. Consequently, consumers bear the brunt of these cost hikes through higher retail prices for milk and dairy products.
    • Pass-through to Consumers: To mitigate the impact of rising input costs, dairies pass on the increased procurement prices to consumers, leading to further price hikes in milk products. This pass-through mechanism exacerbates the financial burden on consumers already grappling with inflated prices.
    • Impact on Farmers: While increased procurement prices may benefit farmers initially, they may face challenges in sustaining dairy farming operations if input costs continue to escalate. Balancing the interests of farmers, consumers, and the dairy industry becomes crucial amidst these challenges..

    How can that be achieved?

    • Use of Sex-Sorted Semen (SS) technology: The use of sex-sorted semen increases the probability of female calves being born to over 90%, compared to the 50:50 ratio with conventional semen. This technology ensures a higher proportion of future milk-producing cows, enhancing the productivity of dairy herds.
    • Increased Adoption: Dairy cooperatives like Amul are actively promoting the use of sex-sorted semen among farmers. In 2022-23, Amul performed 2.86 lakh artificial inseminations (AIs) using sex-sorted semen out of a total of 13.91 lakh AIs, constituting 20.5% of the total. The cooperative aims to raise this ratio to 30% by 2024-25.
    • Enhanced Conception Rate: Roughly one-third of artificial inseminations using sex-sorted semen lead to conception. This high conception rate, coupled with the assurance of female calves, contributes to a more efficient breeding strategy, resulting in a larger population of milk-producing cows.
    • Long-term Impact: By increasing the number of female calves born through sex-sorted semen technology, dairy farmers can anticipate a higher yield of milk-producing cows in subsequent generations. This proactive approach ensures the sustainability and growth of the dairy industry by maximizing milk production efficiency.
    • Cooperative Initiatives: Dairy cooperatives play a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of advanced breeding technologies among farmers. Through initiatives like Amul’s targeted use of sex-sorted semen, cooperatives contribute to improving the genetic potential of dairy herds and enhancing overall milk yield per animal.

    Taking to farmer/ significance of Breeding Centre-

    • Establishment of Bovine Breeding Centre: Amul inaugurated a Bovine Breeding Centre in Mogar, Gujarat, in March 2020, to breed a nucleus herd of superior bulls and cows for artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) technologies.
    • Objective of the Centre: The primary objective of the centre is to produce high-quality semen and in vitro-fertilised embryos, stored at ultra-low temperatures, for use in AI or transferring into farmers’ animals.
    • Breeds and Milk Yield: The centre has produced various breeds, including exotic (such as Holstein-Friesian and Jersey), HF-Gir and HF-Sahiwal crossbred, and indigenous Gir, Sahiwal, and Murrah buffalo breeds, with varying milk yield capacities ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 liters per year.
    • Utilization of Male and Female Genetics: Through AI and sex-sorted semen, the centre exploits male genetics, while IVF-ET technology focuses on harnessing the female genetics of donor cows.
    • Adoption by Farmers: Amul has extended IVF-ET technology to farmers, with successful pregnancies and calvings recorded. Member unions of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation have also embraced these advancements, with farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary experiencing the benefits of higher-quality breeds through IVF-ET, leading to better milk yields and economic returns.
    • Preference for Specific Breeds: Farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary choose breeds like Kankrej for their higher fat and solids-not-fat content, despite lower yields, to ensure better prices and lower feeding and maintenance costs.

    Animal nutrition/ lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate

    • Feeding Cost Reduction: Intervention is necessary to reduce the feeding costs of animals by cultivating high-yielding, protein-rich green fodder grasses. This reduces reliance on expensive compound cattle feed and oil-meal concentrates.The focus of White Revolution 2.0 would clearly have to be on lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
    • Introduction of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Plant: Amul is establishing a 30-tonnes-per-day TMR plant at Sarsa in Anand. TMR will comprise dry and green fodder, concentrates, vitamins, and mineral mixtures, providing animals with a ready-to-eat mashed form of nutrition.
    • Benefits of TMR: TMR will save farmers the cost of purchasing and storing fodder separately, as well as the effort of administering it alongside cattle feed. It offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for animal nutrition.
    • Sourcing Fodder: The plan involves sourcing fodder from farmer producer organizations (FPOs), whose members will cultivate maize, jowar, hybrid napier, or oat grass and prepare silage for use in the TMR plant.
    • Focus on High-Yielding Grasses: Farmers will focus on cultivating high-yielding grass varieties rich in protein content, which are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals.

    Conclusion-

    To ensure a sustainable White Revolution 2.0, measures such as the adoption of advanced breeding technologies, the establishment of breeding centres, and focus on animal nutrition are crucial for enhancing milk production efficiency and economic viability.

    Mains question for practice-

    Q- Discuss the role of advanced breeding technologies, establishment of breeding centers, and strategies for reducing feeding costs in ensuring sustainable milk production to achieve White Revolution 2.0.(250 words)

  • Centre brings wheat and rice under price stabilization fund

    Why in the news?

    The government has approved the inclusion of wheat and rice under its price stabilization fund to provide subsidies for the quantity allocated under Bharat atta and rice sale.

    Context: After it started selling Bharat atta and rice as part of its retail intervention in a bid to tame inflation as prices are soaring ahead of general elections

    What is the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF)?

     

    A Price Stabilization Fund is established to mitigate excessive fluctuations in specific commodity prices. The fund’s resources are typically deployed to moderate high or low prices through various initiatives, such as procuring particular goods and distributing them as needed, ensuring prices stay within a desired range.

    Background-

    • During the fiscal year 2014-15, the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) was instituted within the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW) to manage the fluctuating costs of crucial agricultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses.
    • These commodities will be procured directly from farmers or their organizations at farm gates or designated marketplaces, and subsequently offered to consumers at a more affordable rate. Any incurred losses in the coordination between the central government and the states during these operations must be divided.

    The significance of the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) in the context of recent expansion to include of wheat and rice-

    • Addressing Inflationary trends : The inclusion of wheat and rice under the PSF marks a significant expansion beyond the previously covered commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses. This expansion reflects the government’s commitment to addressing inflationary trends across a broader spectrum of essential food items.
    • Buffer Stock Management: The PSF is utilized to build up buffer stocks of key food commodities such as wheat and rice. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of price surges to stabilize prices and ensure affordability for consumers.
    • Subsidy Allocation: The government provides subsidies to agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for supplying wheat and rice to central procurement agencies. This subsidy support helps in maintaining the affordability of these commodities, particularly under the Bharat brand, which is sold at subsidized prices.
    • Inflation Mitigation: The inclusion of wheat and rice in the PSF is aimed at mitigating rising food inflation, which has been a concern ahead of general elections. By intervening in the market through strategic buffer stock management and subsidized sales, the government seeks to curb inflationary pressures and ensure food affordability for consumers.
    • Policy Response to Market Dynamics: The decision to expand the PSF reflects a proactive policy response to address market dynamics, particularly concerning rising rice prices. By taking measures to stabilize prices and increase availability through the PSF, the government aims to alleviate the burden on consumers and mitigate potential electoral repercussions associated with food inflation.

    The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) addresses inflationary pressures and aids in maintaining food affordability through several mechanisms:

    • Buffer Stock Management: The PSF accumulates buffer stocks of essential food commodities during periods of surplus production or lower prices. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of scarcity or price surges. By increasing the supply of commodities during shortages, the PSF helps stabilize prices and prevents excessive inflation.
    • Subsidy Provision: The PSF provides subsidies to support the procurement and distribution of essential commodities. These subsidies enable the government to sell commodities at lower prices, making them more affordable for consumers. Subsidies can also incentivize increased production, leading to a greater supply of commodities and further price stability.
    • Market Intervention: The PSF allows for direct intervention in the market to address sudden price fluctuations. By purchasing commodities during periods of low prices and selling them during periods of high prices, the PSF helps moderate price volatility and ensures that prices remain within a reasonable range.
    • Consumer Protection: By stabilizing prices and ensuring the availability of essential food items, the PSF protects consumers from sudden spikes in food prices, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Affordable food prices contribute to improved food security and overall economic stability.
    • Incentivizing Domestic Production: The PSF incentivizes domestic production by providing a guaranteed market for farmers’ produce at stable prices. This encourages farmers to increase their production levels, contributing to overall food security and helping to mitigate inflationary pressures.

    Conclusion: The government is expanding the Price Stabilization Fund to include wheat and rice amid soaring food prices ahead of elections. This aims to manage inflation by subsidizing essential commodities and maintaining buffer stocks.

  • [pib] Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024

    Why in the news-

    • INS Tir and INS Sujata are set to participate in the second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) Exercise.

    Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024

    • It is a biennial exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
    • The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
    • It seeks to enhance India’s commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
    • Through this joint exercise, the Indian Navy aims to foster mutual trust and understanding with its maritime partners in Mozambique and Tanzania.

    Phases of the Exercise

    • Harbour Phase: Activities include joint harbour training such as Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation, and Diving operations.
    • Sea Phase: Focuses on countering asymmetric threats, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, boat handling, manoeuvres, firing exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance.

    PYQ:

    2017: Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about Exercise IMT TRILAT:

    1. It is an annual exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
    2. The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • RBI and SEBI: India’s Financial Landscape under Scrutiny

    Why in the news-

    • Recent actions by both India’s banking regulator RBI and the securities watchdog SEBI have startled the market, exposing various malpractices in the financial sector.

    Context

    • Banking Sector: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) faces political scrutiny following the Supreme Court’s ban on anonymous political funding instruments introduced by the government in 2018. Its oversight was questioned amidst concerns about opaque corporate donations in the Electoral Bonds Scheme which was recently held unconstitutional.
    • Securities Market: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is under pressure to address concerns about asset price inflation, concentrated positions in illiquid shares, and excessive speculation among retail investors. Its credibility was questioned after Hindenburg Research’s allegations.

    Financial Landscape and its Regulation

    [1] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

    • The RBI is the central bank and monetary authority of India.
    • It is established on April 1, 1935, under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
    • Its idea was incepted from the recommendations of the Hilton Young Commission.
    • It is a centralized institution for India to effectively regulate its monetary and credit policies.
    • RBI had its initial headquarters in Kolkata, later moving permanently to Mumbai in 1937.
    • Initially, the RBI operated as a privately owned entity until its full nationalization in 1949.

    Key Regulatory Functions of the RBI:

    (i) Monetary Policy:

    • The RBI formulates and implements monetary policies to achieve price stability, economic growth, and financial stability.
    • The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) determines the policy interest rates, such as the repo rate, reverse repo rate, and marginal standing facility rate, based on inflation targeting and growth objectives.
    • By adjusting these rates, the RBI influences money supply, credit flow, and interest rates in the economy.

    (ii) Banking Regulation and Supervision:

    • The RBI regulates and supervises banks and financial institutions to ensure their stability, soundness, and compliance with regulatory norms.
    • It issues guidelines, directives, and prudential regulations covering aspects like capital adequacy, asset quality, management effectiveness, and liquidity risk management.
    • The RBI conducts regular inspections, audits, and assessments of banks to assess their financial health and adherence to regulations.
    • It also intervenes in troubled banks to protect depositors’ interests and maintain financial stability.

    (iii) Payment and Settlement Systems:

    • The RBI manages and oversees payment and settlement systems to ensure efficiency, safety, and reliability in financial transactions.
    • It operates the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system for large-value transactions and the National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) system for retail transactions.
    • The RBI formulates regulations and standards for payment systems, promotes innovation in payment technologies, and monitors systemically important payment infrastructures to mitigate risks and enhance resilience.

    (iv) Financial Markets Regulation:

    • The RBI regulates and supervises financial markets, including money, bonds, foreign exchange, and derivative markets, to maintain market integrity and investor confidence.
    • It issues guidelines, directives, and regulations governing market participants, intermediaries, and trading activities.
    • The RBI monitors market developments, enforces compliance with regulations, and intervenes in markets to address disorderly conditions, liquidity shortages, or excessive volatility.
    • It also conducts open market operations (OMOs) to manage liquidity and stabilize interest rates.

    [2] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

    • SEBI is the regulatory authority overseeing India’s securities and commodity markets.
    • Established in 1988 as a non-statutory body, SEBI was granted statutory powers with the enactment of the SEBI Act 1992 by the Indian Parliament.
    • It operates under the purview of the Ministry of Finance.
    • SEBI’s structure includes a chairman nominated by the GoI, members from the Union Finance Ministry, the Reserve Bank of India, and others.
    • Its headquarters is in Mumbai, with regional offices in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi.

    Key Regulatory Functions of the SEBI:

    (i) Formulating Regulations:

    • SEBI formulates regulations, guidelines, and directives to govern various aspects of the securities market.
    • This includes regulations related to public issuances, disclosures, insider trading, takeover bids, corporate governance, and investor protection.

    (ii) Monitoring Market Participants:

    • SEBI regulates and supervises market intermediaries such as stock exchanges, brokers, merchant bankers, portfolio managers, and mutual funds.
    • It sets eligibility criteria, registration requirements, and conduct norms for these entities and monitors their compliance with regulations.

    (iii) Overseeing Market Infrastructure:

    • SEBI oversees the functioning of stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories, and other market infrastructure institutions.
    • It ensures that these entities maintain adequate systems, procedures, and safeguards to facilitate fair, transparent, and efficient trading and settlement operations.

    (iv) Enforcing Securities Laws:

    • SEBI enforces securities laws and regulations by conducting inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions against violations.
    • It has the authority to impose penalties, suspend licenses, and initiate legal proceedings against individuals or entities found to be engaged in fraudulent or unfair practices.

    (v) Regulating Securities Offerings:

    • SEBI regulates public offerings of securities, including initial public offerings (IPOs), rights issues, and follow-on public offerings.
    • It reviews offer documents, ensures disclosure of material information to investors, and supervises the conduct of issuers, underwriters, and other intermediaries involved in the offering process.

    (vi) Monitoring Insider Trading and Market Manipulation:

    • SEBI monitors and regulates insider trading, market manipulation, and other fraudulent activities that can undermine market integrity.
    • It prohibits insider trading, imposes restrictions on share buybacks and open market operations, and investigates suspicious trading activities to maintain market fairness and transparency.

    PYQ:

     

    2015: In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in the corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability.

     

    2021: With reference to India, consider the following statements:​

    1. Retail investors through demat account can invest in ‘Treasury Bills’ and ‘Government of India Debt Bonds’ in primary market.​
    2. The ‘Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching’ is a government securities trading platform of the Reserve Bank of India. ​
    3. The ‘Central Depository Services Ltd.’ is jointly promoted by the Reserve Bank of India and the Bombay Stock Exchange. ​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?​

    1. 1 only ​
    2. 1 and 2 only ​
    3. 3 only ​
    4. 2 and 3 only ​

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), consider the following statements:

    1. It was established in 1988 as a non-statutory body.
    2. It operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
    3. It consists of a chairman, members from the Union Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India.

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • Patent (Amendment) Rules, 2024: Key Highlights

    In the news-

    • The Patent (Amendment) Rules, 2024 were recently published in the Gazette of India, making crucial changes in the Indian patent regime.

    Context:

     

    2023 emerged as a landmark year for intellectual property rights (IPR) in India, reflecting the nation’s commitment to innovation and creativity.

     

    • 1 Lakh Patents filed: The Indian Patent Office has achieved a significant milestone this year by granting over 1 lakh patents in a year for the first time.
    • Sector-wise Breakdown: The highest number of patents, 47,993, were granted in the electrical and related field of invention, followed by mechanical (37,714), chemical sciences (12,028) and Biotech (3,576) categories.

    Key Amendments Introduced:

    • Revised Timeline for Request for Examination: The period for submitting a Request for Examination (RFE) in a patent application has been shortened from 48 months to 31 months from the earliest priority date.
    • Streamlined Applications: Patent applicants now need to furnish details of corresponding applications solely twice using Form 3.
    • Introduction of ‘Certificate of Inventorship’: This new provision acknowledges the contributions of inventors to patented innovations.
    • Reduction in Advance Renewal Fees: A discount of 10% on renewal fees is offered if paid electronically in advance for a minimum of four years.
    • Decreased Frequency of Patent Working Statements: The requirement to file statements of working patents has been reduced from annually to once every three financial years.
    • Enhanced Authority of Controller: The Controller is now empowered to extend specified periods and excuse delays for up to six months.
    • Amendments to Opposition Procedures: Adjustments have been made to the time frames for submitting recommendations by an Opposition Board and the response period for applicants in both pre-grant and post-grant opposition procedures.

    What are Patents?

    • A patent is a legal right granted by a government to an inventor or assignee, giving them exclusive rights to an invention for a limited period.
    • It provides the inventor with the right to exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing the patented invention without their permission.
    • In essence, a patent acts as a form of intellectual property protection for inventions, allowing inventors to control and commercialize their creations.
    • Patents are territorial rights. In general, the exclusive rights are only applicable in the country or region in which a patent has been filed and granted.

    Indian Patent Regime: A Backgrounder

    • Indian patents are governed by the Indian Patent Act of 1970.
    • India has gradually aligned itself with international regimes pertaining to intellectual property rights.
    • In 1995, India became a party to the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement following its membership to the World Trade Organisation on January 1, 1995.
    • An interesting point is that the original Indian Patents Act did NOT grant patent protection to pharmaceutical products to ensure that medicines were available at a low price.
    • Patent protection of pharmaceuticals were re-introduced after the 2005 amendment to comply with TRIPS.

    Filing a Patent: Key Terms

    • Patentable Subject Matter: Under the Indian Patents Act, inventions related to products, processes, methods, and applications in all fields of technology are patentable, provided they are novel, involve an inventive step, and are capable of industrial application.
    • Patent Office: The Indian Patent Office, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), administers the patent system in India. It operates through four branches located in Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai, with the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks overseeing patent-related matters.
    • 20-Year Validity: Patent protection is granted for a limited period, generally 20 years from the filing date of the application.

    Various Agreements

    India is also a signatory to several IPR-related conventions, including-

    1. Berne Convention (1886) The Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, established in 1886, is an international treaty governing copyright.
    2. Budapest Treaty (1977): It aims to facilitate the international recognition of patents relating to microorganisms by providing a centralized deposit system for the storage and distribution of biological materials.
    3. Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property (1883): It aims to harmonize and standardize the protection of industrial property, including patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and trade secrets, among its member countries.
    4. Patent Cooperation Treaty (1970): It is an international treaty administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to simplify the process of filing patent applications in multiple countries by providing a unified procedure for filing an international patent application.

    Back2Basics:

    Patents Copyright Trade Secrets
    Legal Basis Patents Act, 1970 Copyright Act, 1957 Common law, contracts
    Duration of Protection 20 years Author’s lifetime + 60 years Indefinite
    Nature of Protection Inventions, processes, methods Literary, artistic, musical works Confidential information
    Criteria for Protection Novelty, Inventiveness Originality, Fixation Confidentiality
    Registration Requirement Required Optional (automatic) None (advisable)
    Scope of Protection Technical aspects Expression of ideas Unauthorized use or disclosure
    Enforcement Mechanism Civil litigation Civil and criminal actions Civil litigation
    International Protection Patent protection can be sought internationally through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and other international agreements Copyright protection is recognized internationally through the Berne Convention and other treaties Protection of trade secrets can vary internationally and may depend on the laws and regulations of individual countries
    Examples Inventions, software Books, music, software Formulas, processes

     

    PYQ:

     

    2013: Bringing out the circumstances in 2005 which forced an amendment to section 3(d) in Indian Patent Law, 1970, discuss how it has been utilized by the Supreme Court in its judgement in rejecting Novartis’ patent application for ‘Glivec’. Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the decision. (200 words)

    2014: In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms—Copyrights, Patents and Trade Secrets.

  • NABARD to launch â‚č1000-crore Blended Fund for Agri-Startups

    What is the news –

    • The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is set to launch a â‚č1,000-crore fund to bolster technology-driven agri-startups and rural enterprises.
    • NABARD has already established a â‚č750-crore fund, which will be followed by another â‚č1,000 crore, to support startups in this regard.

    What are Agri-Startups?

    • Agri-startups are entrepreneurial ventures focused on innovating and revolutionizing various aspects of agriculture and allied sectors.
    • These startups leverage technology, data, and modern farming practices to address challenges in the agricultural value chain and promote sustainable farming practices.
    • They offer a wide range of products and services aimed at improving productivity, efficiency, and profitability for farmers, as well as enhancing food quality and safety for consumers.

    Key areas of innovation in agri-startups include:

    1. Precision Agriculture: Utilizing data-driven technologies such as IoT, drones, and satellite imagery for precision farming, soil health monitoring, crop monitoring, and yield optimization.
    2. Agritech Solutions: Developing innovative technologies and tools for pest and disease management, water management, greenhouse farming, and hydroponics.
    3. Farm Management Software: Providing digital platforms and mobile applications for farm management, crop planning, inventory management, and market intelligence.
    4. Agri-Marketing Platforms: Connecting farmers directly with buyers, retailers, and consumers through online marketplaces, e-commerce platforms, and farm-to-fork initiatives.
    5. Supply Chain Management: Streamlining logistics, transportation, and warehousing operations to reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access, and ensure traceability and transparency in the supply chain.
    6. Food Processing: Developing value-added products, food processing technologies, and packaging solutions to enhance the shelf life, nutritional value, and marketability of agricultural produce.

     About NABARD

     

    • NABARD was established on July 12, 1982, by an Act of Parliament to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
    • It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
    • It was established on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee and has its headquarters in Mumbai.
    • Its primary mission is to facilitate credit flow for promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
    • It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI, with (1) representatives from the RBI, (2) central and state governments, and (3) experts in various fields related to rural development and finance.

     

    Functions of NABARD:

     

    1. Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
    2. Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
    3. Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.
    4. Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
    5. Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
    6. Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
    7. Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.

     

    About the Blended Fund for Agri-Startups

    • In the budget for FY23, plans for a blended capital fund were announced for ‘Sunrise Sectors’ to finance startups for agriculture and rural enterprises.
    • The fund aims to support startups facing challenges in scaling up their operations due to limited access to equity and debt instruments.
    • It also seeks to foster new linkages in the rural ecosystem, both forward and backwards.

    Other Schemes for Agri-Startups in India

     

    1. Agriculture Accelerator Fund (2023): It was announced by Finance Minister in the union budget for 2023-24, as a significant initiative designed to support agritech startups and young entrepreneurs hailing from rural areas.
    2. Innovation and Agri-Entrepreneurship Development Program (2018-19): To increase farmers’ income, GOI started this Program under the umbrella of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (2007). Startups receive financial assistance at different stages, with Rs. 5.00 lakh at the idea/pre-seed stage and Rs. 25 lakh at the seed stage.

     

    PYQ:

    Q.Priority Sector Lending by banks in India constitutes the lending to: (2012)

    1. Agriculture
    2. Micro and small enterprises
    3. Weaker sections
    4. All of the above

  • [pib] GRID-INDIA is now a Miniratna Company

    What is the news-

    • Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA) reached a significant milestone as it was honored with the prestigious status of Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) by the Ministry of Power.

    About Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA)

    • Founding: Established in 2009, GRID-INDIA plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Indian Power System.
    • Mandate: GRID-INDIA is tasked with overseeing the seamless transfer of electric power within and across regions, facilitating transnational power exchanges, and ensuring reliability, economy, and sustainability in the power sector.
    • Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and NLDC: GRID-INDIA comprises five RLDCs and the National Load Despatch Centre (NLDC), collectively managing the All India synchronous grid.
    • Functions: Managing one of the world’s largest and most intricate power systems, GRID-INDIA handles diverse challenges arising from the integration of power systems, rising energy demands, and the proliferation of Renewable Energy (RE) sources.

    What are Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?

    • CPSEs are companies in which the central government holds a majority stake (usually more than 51%).
    • These enterprises operate across various sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, and financial services.
    • CPSEs are governed by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.

    Within the CPSEs, there are further classifications based on their financial performance, operational autonomy, and strategic importance:

    Maharatna Companies Navratna Companies Miniratna Companies
    Categories Single category Single category Two categories (Category-I and Category-II) based on the Autonomy
    Eligibility Criteria Annual turnover of â‚č25,000 crore, net worth of â‚č15,000 crore, and net profit of â‚č5,000 crore over the last three years A composite score of at least 60% based on various parameters such as net profit, net worth, total manpower cost, cost of production, PBDIT (Profit Before Depreciation, Interest, and Taxes) to turnover ratio, and other operational and financial parameters. Satisfactory operational and financial performance, as per government guidelines
    Operational Autonomy High degree of operational autonomy and financial powers Moderate degree of operational autonomy and financial powers Limited operational autonomy and financial powers
    Investment Authority Authority to make strategic investments, undertake mergers and acquisitions, and form joint ventures or collaborations without seeking government approval Authority to undertake investment decisions, execute projects, and form joint ventures or subsidiaries within prescribed limits without seeking government approval Authority to make certain investment decisions, incur capital expenditure and undertake expansion projects within prescribed limits without seeking government approval
    Number of Companies Limited number of companies (currently 10 Maharatna companies) Limited number of companies (currently 14 Navratna companies) Larger number of companies (over 70 Miniratna companies)
    Examples Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), NTPC Limited Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID)

     

    PYQ:

    2011: Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equity in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?

    1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external debt.
    2. The Government no longer intends to retain the management control of the CPSEs.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • In news: Tobacco Board  

    Why in the news?

    • The Tobacco Board has authorised a crop size of 100 million kg for Karnataka during the year 2024-25.

    Tobacco in Indian Economy

     

    • It is a drought tolerant, hardy and short duration crop which can be grown on soils where other crops cannot be cultivated profitably.
    • In India, Tobacco crop is grown in an area of 0.45 M ha (0.27% of the net cultivated area) producing ~ 750 M kg of tobacco leaf.
    • India is the 2nd largest producer and exporter after China and Brazil respectively.
    • The production of flue-cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco is about 300 million kg from an area of 0.20 M ha while 450 M kg non-FCV tobacco is produced from an area of 0.25 M ha.
    • In the global scenario, Indian tobacco accounts for 10% of the area and 9% of the total production.

     About Tobacco Board 

    • The Tobacco Board was constituted as a Statutory Body on 1st January, 1976 under Section (4) of the Tobacco Board Act, 1975.
    • It operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
    • It is headquartered in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.

    The primary objective of the Tobacco Board is-

    • To promote the orderly development of the tobacco industry in India, particularly in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, which are the major tobacco-growing regions in the country.

    Key Functions and Responsibilities  

    1. Regulation and Control: The Tobacco Board regulates the production, curing, grading, and marketing of Virginia tobacco, which includes Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) and Burley tobacco varieties.
    2. Licensing and Registration: It monitors and issues licenses and registrations to tobacco growers, manufacturers, exporters, and dealers involved in various stages of the tobacco supply chain.
    3. Research and Development: It collaborates with agricultural research institutes, universities, and industry stakeholders to introduce new technologies, best practices, and crop varieties to enhance the productivity and profitability of tobacco farming.
    4. Market Promotion: It promotes Indian tobacco products in domestic and international markets through trade fairs, exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, and promotional campaigns.
    5. Price Stabilization: It intervenes in the market to stabilize prices, mitigate price fluctuations, and protect the interests of farmers against adverse market conditions.
    6. Quality Control and Grading: It operates grading centers and quality testing laboratories to assess the quality characteristics of tobacco and facilitate fair trade practices in the industry.

    PYQ:

    Q.With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements:

    1. The Tea Board is a statutory body.
    2. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
    3. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru.
    4. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow.

    Which of the statements given above are correct? (2022)

    1. 1 and 3
    2. 2 and 4
    3. 3 and 4
    4. 1 and 4

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements regarding the cultivation of Tobacco in India:

    1. Tobacco is a drought tolerant, hardy and short duration crop.
    2. India is the 2nd largest producer and exporter after China and Brazil respectively
    3. In the global scenario, Indian tobacco accounts for 10% of the area and 9% of the total production.

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • Insights from the WMO’s State of the Climate Report, 2023

    What is the news-

    • The World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) recent State of the Climate report highlights unprecedented climatic shifts, with numerous indicators reaching record levels.

    About World Meteorological Organization

    • It is an intergovernmental organization and a specialized agency of the UN for meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences.
    • It was established in 1950 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
    • It origin traces to the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), which was founded in 1873.
    • Currently it has a membership of 191 countries. India is also a member.

    Key Highlights of the State of the Climate Report, 2023

    [1] Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)

    • Record-High Concentrations: GHGs like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide reached record levels in 2022, contributing to global warming. The concentration of GHGs observed in 2022 is the latest year for which consolidated global values are available (1984–2022).
    • Long-term Trend: The rise in GHG concentrations underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to mitigate their impact.

    [2] Surface Temperature

    • Historic Spike: Global surface temperatures in 2023 surged to 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, marking the highest recorded temperature. This temperature rise is attributed to the combined effects of rising GHG concentrations and the onset of El Nino in 2023.
    • El Nino Influence: The onset of El Nino exacerbated temperature extremes globally, amplifying the impacts of climate change.

    [3] Ocean Heat Content (OHC)

    • Unprecedented Heat: Ocean heat content reached its highest level in the observational record of 2023. The ocean heat content (OHC) refers to the total amount of heat the oceans store.
    • Long-term Trend: The continual increase in OHC underscores the ongoing challenge of ocean warming and its implications for marine ecosystems.

    [4] Marine Heat Waves (MHWs)

    • Widespread Occurrence: The global ocean experienced a significant increase in marine heatwave (MHW) coverage in 2023. The average daily marine heatwave coverage reached 32%, surpassing previous records set in 2016.
    • Duration and Intensity: Prolonged MHWs pose threats to marine biodiversity, ecosystems, and fisheries, highlighting the urgency of climate action.

    [5] Antarctic Sea-Ice Extent

    • Record Low: Antarctic sea-ice extent plummeted to 1.79 million km2 in February 2023, the lowest since satellite observations began in 1979. The extent remained below average throughout the year, signalling ongoing trends of sea-ice loss in the Antarctic region.
    • Persistent Decline: The continued decline in Antarctic sea-ice extent underscores the vulnerability of Polar Regions to climate change.

    [6] Glacier Mass Balance

    • Unprecedented Loss: Glaciers worldwide experienced the largest annual loss of ice on record in 2022-2023. The annual mass balance, which measures the amount of mass gained or lost by glaciers, dropped to a new low of ‘–1.2 metre water equivalent’.
    • Regional Disparities: Glacial mass balance varied across regions, with North American and European glaciers particularly affected by ice loss.

    Significance of the report

    • The figures presented in the WMO report underscore the magnitude of climate change impacts on various Earth systems.
    • Urgent action is needed to address rising GHG emissions, mitigate temperature extremes, protect marine environments, and preserve critical cryospheric regions.

    PYQ:

    2018: “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by

    1. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
    2. The UNEP Secretariat
    3. The UNFCCC Secretariat
    4. The World Meteorological Organisation

  • PIB’s Fact Check Unit: Combating Misinformation in India

    Why in the news?

    • Weeks ahead of the election, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Wednesday notified the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit (FCU) as the designated body to flag misinformation about Central government departments to social media platforms.

    Why PIB?

    • Under the GoI (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is entrusted with the responsibility of disseminating information about government policies, schemes, and programs through various mediums of communication.
    • In fulfilling its role, the Ministry publicizes the policies, initiatives, schemes, and programs of the Government of India through press releases, press conferences, webinars, publication of books, etc.
    • To carry out this crucial function, the Ministry has several attached and subordinate offices, including the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

    What is Fact Check Unit (FCU)?

    • The Fact Check Unit’s mandate arises from the IT Rules, 2021, which stipulate that social media platforms risk losing legal liability protections if they fail to address notified misinformation promptly.
    • The unit verifies claims about government policies, regulations, announcements and measures.
    • Through an established rigorous fact-checking procedure, the PIB Fact Check Unit helps in dispelling myths, rumours and false claims, and provides accurate and reliable information to the public.

    Operational Framework

    • The FCU, led by senior DG/ADG level officer of the Indian Information Service (IIS), operates under the supervision of the Principal Director General of PIB.
    • Its mandate includes verifying claims related to government policies, regulations, and announcements through a rigorous fact-checking process.
    • The Unit reports to the Principal Director General, PIB who functions as the Principal Spokesperson of the Government of India.

    Fact-Check Mechanism

    • Query Handling: Users submit requests via WhatsApp, email, or a web portal, which are processed as ‘Queries’ by the Unit.
    • Verification Process: Actionable Queries relevant to the Government of India undergo thorough verification using official sources and technological tools.
    • Publication of Fact Checks: Verified information is categorized as Fake, Misleading, or True, and published on the Unit’s social media platforms for public awareness.

    Categories of Fact-Checked Content

    1. Fake: Factually incorrect information intentionally or unintentionally disseminated to deceive or manipulate the audience.
    2. Misleading: Information presented with partial truths, selective facts, or distortion to mislead recipients.
    3. True: Information verified to be factually accurate after rigorous investigation.

    PYQ:

    2017: Democracy’s superior virtue lies in the fact that it calls into activity-

    1. The intelligence and character of ordinary men and women.
    2. The methods for strengthening executive leadership.
    3. A superior individual with dynamism and vision.
    4. A band of dedicated party workers.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The centre has recently established the Fact Check Unit (FCU) as a designated body to flag misinformation in India. In this regard, consider the following statements:

    1. Establishment of FCU is mandated under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005.
    2. The FCU is led by an officer of the Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS).

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2