Archives: News

Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana

Prelims Only Schemes | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the News?

The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched the ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’, aimed at improving legal aid for defence personnel and their families.

Back2Basics: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

Established under: Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (in force from 1995)
Mandate: Ensure free, competent legal aid to the socially and economically disadvantaged
Leadership:
- Patron-in-Chief: Chief Justice of India
- Executive Chairman: Senior Supreme Court Judge
Core Functions:

- Legal literacy campaigns
- Lok Adalats for amicable dispute resolution
- Legal aid in civil and criminal matters
- Outreach in rural and vulnerable communities

About Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana:

Launched by: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Objective: Provide legal assistance to defence personnel, ex-servicemen, and their families.

Key Features:

- Legal Clinics: Set up at Zilla, Rajya, and Kendra Sainik Boards
- Welfare–Legal Integration: Sainik Boards become legal service hubs
- Paralegal Volunteers: Defence families encouraged to participate, enhancing local legal access

Legal Assistance includes:

- Land and property disputes
- Matrimonial and family matters
- Service-related entitlements
- Utility/civil grievances (e.g., billing disputes)
- Support for personnel in remote/conflict zones

Free Legal Aid in India:

Constitutional Backing

- Article 21 (FR): Access to justice as part of the right to life
- Article 39A (DPSP): Legal aid and equal justice, added via 42nd Amendment Act, 1976

Legal Framework:

- Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: Four-tier system—National, State, District, Taluka
- Section 341, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023: Legal aid for indigent accused persons

Eligibility Criteria:

- Women and children
- Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes
- Persons with disabilities
- Industrial workmen
- Victims of disasters (natural or human-made)
- Persons in custody or shelter homes
- Economically weak (annual income:
  - Below ₹1 lakh generally
  - Below ₹5 lakh for Supreme Court cases)

[UPSC 2020] In India, Legal Services Authorities provide free legal services to which of the following type of citizens?

1. Person with an annual income of less than Rs 1,00,000

2. Transgender with an annual income of less than Rs 2,00,000

3. Member of Other Backward Classes (OBC) with an annual income of less than ₹ 3,00,000

4. All Senior Citizens

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 4 only

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Women Safety Issues – Marital Rape, Domestic Violence, Swadhar, Nirbhaya Fund, etc.

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) under POSH Act

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

Why in the News?

A student in Odisha, died by suicide after her sexual harassment complaint was rejected by her college’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), showing the urgent need for stronger grievance systems.

About Internal Complaints Committee (ICC):

Legal Basis: Mandated under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act).
Applicability: Mandatory in all organizations with 10 or more employees.
Purpose: Provides a redressal mechanism to ensure a safe and dignified workplace for women.

Composition:

- A Presiding Officer who is a senior woman employee.
- At least two internal members with legal or social expertise.
- One external member from an NGO or with knowledge of sexual harassment issues.
- Minimum 50% of ICC members must be women.

Powers and Functions:

Complaint Handling:
- Accepts complaints within 3 months of the incident.
- Offers conciliation (on request) or initiates a formal inquiry.
Inquiry Process:
- Holds powers similar to a civil court (summon, evidence collection, sworn statements).
- Must complete inquiry within 90 days.
Confidentiality: Identity of complainant, respondent, witnesses, and proceedings must be kept confidential.
Post-Inquiry Actions:
- Recommends disciplinary action or closure.
- Employer must act on recommendations within 60 days.
- Assists in filing FIRs if the complainant seeks criminal action.

Back2Basics: POSH Act, 2013

Full Form: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Background:
- Originated from the Vishaka Guidelines (1997) issued by the Supreme Court.
- Inspired by the Bhanwari Devi case and public pressure after the Nirbhaya case (2012).
Constitutional and Global Basis:
- Upholds gender justice under Article 15.
- Based on India’s commitment to CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, 1979) (ratified in 1993).
Key Provisions

- Workplace Scope: Includes private and public sectors, government offices, NGOs, informal sectors, and domestic work.
- Definition of Harassment: Covers physical contact, unwelcome advances, sexually coloured remarks, explicit content, and verbal or non-verbal conduct.
- Mandatory ICC: All organizations with 10+ employees must set up an Internal Complaints Committee.
- Local Committee: District-level Local Committees must be set up for smaller workplaces or domestic workers.
Employer Responsibilities:
- Conduct awareness sessions and training.
- Ensure safety and publish the organization’s POSH policy.
Timelines:
- Complaints must be filed within 3 months.
- Inquiries must be completed within 90 days.
Penalties:
- Fine of up to ₹50,000 for non-compliance.
- Repeat violations can lead to license cancellation.

[UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:

1. The Judge (Inquiry) Bill 2006 contemplates establishing a Judicial Council which will receive complaints against Judges of the Supreme Court, Chief Justices, and Judges.

2. Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, a woman can file a petition before a 1st Class Judicial Magistrate.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

The second Kala Utsav 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan celebrated India’s tribal art, with artists from Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal showcasing Sohrai, Pattachitra, and Patua paintings.

Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

About Sohrai Paintings:

Origin: Indigenous to Jharkhand, especially the Hazaribagh region.
Etymology: Derived from ‘Soro’ meaning “to drive away with a stick.”
Historical Roots: Traces back to the Meso-chalcolithic period (9000–5000 BC).
Archaeological Evidence: Similar rock paintings found at Isko Rock Shelter in Barkagaon.

Key Features of Sohrai Art:

- Practiced By: Women of Kurmi, Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Agaria, and Ghatwal tribes.
- Geographical Spread: Found in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal.
- Materials Used: Natural substances like charcoal, clay, and soil.
- Themes: Celebrates nature—forests, rivers, animals—along with harvest and fertility.
- Festival Link: Painted during the Sohrai festival, marking the harvest season and winter.
- Ritual Role: Rice-gruel mandalas drawn to welcome cattle into homes.
- GI Tag: Awarded in 2020 for Sohrai Khovar Painting.

Back2Basics:

Pattachitra Painting:

Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

Origin: Odisha, associated with the Jagannath Temple, Puri.
Material: Painted on cloth (Pata) coated with chalk powder and tamarind seed glue.
Colors Used: Made from vegetables, minerals, and earth sources.
Artistic Method:
- No pencil outlines.
- Borders are painted first.
- Sketching is done with light red and yellow brushes.
- Finished with lacquer coating for shine and durability.
Themes: Centered on Krishna Leela, Jagannath tales, and other mythological stories.

Patua Painting:

Origin: West Bengal, practiced by the Patua (Chitrakar) community.
Spread: Also found in Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bangladesh.
Format: Painted on scrolls (pati or patta) backed with old sari fabric.
Tools & Colors: Uses bamboo-goat hair brushes and vegetable dyes, fixed with gum.
Usage:
- Scrolls used to narrate folk tales.
- Focuses on Mangal Katha, especially in Kalighat and Kumartuli.
- Practiced by both Hindu and Muslim Patuas.

[UPSC 2015] Kalamkari painting refers to:

Options: (a) a hand-painted cotton textile in South India* (b) a handmade drawing on bamboo handicrafts in North-East India (c) a block-painted woollen cloth in Western Himalayan region of India (d) a hand-painted decorative silk cloth in North-Western India

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Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Why in the News?

Over a century after Einstein explained Brownian motion, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) scientists have created a powerful microscope that shows molecules moving in real time at an extremely tiny scale.

Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

What is Brownian Motion?

Definition: Random movement of tiny particles in a fluid due to constant collisions with surrounding molecules.
Significance: Validated the existence of atoms and molecules; explained by Albert Einstein in 1905.
Particle Behavior: Smaller particles move faster and more erratically; larger ones move slower.

About Caltech Microscope:

Resolution: Angstrom-level (1 Å = 0.0000000001 m).
Speed: Captures hundreds of billions of frames per second.
Advantage: Wide-field, single-shot imaging with no sample damage.

How It Works?

- Setup: Fluorescent molecules in water illuminated by ultrafast lasers.
- Light Capture: Scattered light directed via Digital Micromirror Device.
- Streak Imaging: Light converted to electron patterns revealing molecular size.
- Reading Size: Faster changes = smaller molecules; slower = larger.

[UPSC 2000] Which one of the following can be used to confirm whether drinking water contains a gamma emitting isotope or not?

Options: (a) Microscope (b) Lead plate (c) Scintillation counter* (d) Spectrophotometer

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Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Bamboo-Polymer Composite as alternative to Plastics

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Why in the News?

IIT Guwahati researchers have created a strong, eco-friendly material using bamboo and biodegradable plastic to replace regular plastic in car interiors and other uses.

About the Bamboo-Polymer Composite:

Origin: Made using Bambusa tulda, a fast-growing bamboo from Northeast India.
Composition: Reinforced with bio-based and petroleum-based epoxies for strength.
Objective: Reduce dependence on synthetic plastics in industrial sectors.
Process: Bamboo fibres undergo alkali treatment to bond well with polymers.
Evaluation: Tested across 17 parameters—tensile strength, water resistance, cost, etc.

Key Features and Benefits:

High Strength: Suitable for load-bearing automotive components.
Thermal Stability: Can withstand high interior vehicle temperatures.
Low Moisture Absorption: Ideal for humid environments.
Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable, lowers environmental impact.
Cost-Effective: ₹4300 per kg—commercially viable.
Best Variant: Bamboo + bio-based epoxy FormuLite chosen through performance scoring.

Applications:

Automotive: Dashboards, door panels, seat backs.
Electronics & Packaging: Lightweight, durable material.
Aerospace: Used for sustainable composite components.
Construction: Green alternative for interiors and fixtures.

[UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:

1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of the components used in automobiles and aircrafts.

2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.

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

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

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Internal Security Architecture Shortcomings – Key Forces, NIA, IB, CCTNS, etc.

[26th July 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Kargil, Pahalgam and a revamp of the security strategy

op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

PYQ Relevance:

[UPSC 2016] The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.

Linkage: The article explicitly talks about the India’s shift in counter-terrorism strategy, mentioning the surgical strikes after the Uri attack (2016) and the Balakot strikes (2019) following Pulwama as “a strong reply” and “statement of intent”. The article culminates in discussing Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack (2025), which involved striking terror bases and military air-bases deep in Pakistan, setting a “new threshold” for India’s response to terror.

Mentor’s Comment: This year, in light of the recent Operation Sindoor (May 7–10, 2025), launched by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation demonstrated India’s enhanced conventional military strength and shift in counter-terrorism doctrine, drawing parallels with the Kargil War’s legacy of structural reforms, military modernisation, and strategic assertiveness.

Today’s editorial analyses the Indian Military strength. This topic is important for GS Paper III (Internal Security) in the UPSC mains exam.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

July 26, 2025, marks the 26th anniversary of the Kargil War, a key moment in India’s military history.

What key shortcomings did Kargil expose?

Intelligence Failure: There was a complete lack of actionable intelligence about Pakistani infiltration. Eg: Neither RAW nor military intelligence anticipated the large-scale intrusion in the Kargil sector, resulting in delayed response.
Lack of Real-time Surveillance and Reconnaissance: India lacked advanced aerial and satellite surveillance capabilities. Eg: Absence of drone surveillance led to Pakistani troops occupying key heights undetected.
Operational Unpreparedness in High-altitude Warfare: Indian troops were not fully equipped or trained for fighting in extreme mountain conditions. Eg: Soldiers lacked snow boots, high-altitude tents, and artillery support during initial engagements.
Inadequate Military Modernisation and Logistics: Outdated weaponry and logistical weaknesses slowed the military’s response. Eg: Lack of precision-guided munitions and night-vision equipment hampered operations in the early phase of the conflict.

How did they influence India’s military reforms?

Revamp of the Intelligence Infrastructure: The intelligence failure in Kargil led to the creation of dedicated and tech-enabled intelligence agencies. Eg: Establishment of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in 2002 and the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) in 2004 improved surveillance and early warning systems.
Modernisation and Capability Building: Recognising operational gaps, India focused on military modernisation and indigenous defence production. Eg: Induction of Rafale fighters, Apache helicopters, and BrahMos missiles, along with enhanced focus on ‘Make in India’ defence projects.
Structural and Doctrinal Reforms: The need for faster, joint response led to organisational restructuring and new doctrines. Eg: Appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in 2019 and development of the Cold Start Doctrineenabled swift, coordinated operations across services.

How has India’s counter-terror strategy evolved from Kargil to Operation Sindoor?

Shift from Strategic Restraint to Active Retaliation: Initially, India responded passively to terror attacks, but now adopts swift and punitive action. Eg: In Operation Sindoor (2025), India launched precision strikes on nine terror bases and eleven military airbases inside Pakistan within 96 hours of the Pahalgam attack.
Use of Air Power and Missile Strikes: India has moved beyond surgical ground raids to deep-strike capabilities using air and missile assets. Eg: The BrahMos missile strike on Nur Khan Base in Pakistan reportedly crippled a nuclear weapons storage facility, sending a strong strategic signal.
Preemptive and Coordinated Operations: Focus has shifted to pre-empting terror threats through real-time intelligence and coordinated special operations. Eg: In 2023, India conducted a pre-emptive operation in Kashmir’s Gurez sector, dismantling a terror launchpad before infiltration.
Internationalising the Terror Narrative: India increasingly leverages diplomacy and global platforms to isolate Pakistan as a state sponsor of terror. Eg: Following the Pulwama attack (2019), India worked with global powers to get Masood Azhar designated as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council.
Integration of Technology and Intelligence Networks: There is now enhanced use of surveillance drones, cyber intelligence, and inter-agency coordination. Eg: Operation Black Thunder II (2024) used real-time intelligence sharing between NTRO, RAW, and special forces to eliminate a high-value terrorist in less than two days.

What are the challenges for India?

Persistent Cross-border Terrorism: Despite reforms, Pakistan-based terror groups continue to pose a threat, using proxy warfare and non-state actors to destabilize regions like Jammu & Kashmir.
Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: India is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks on its military, energy, and communication infrastructure by hostile state and non-state actors. Eg: In 2023, a suspected Chinese-origin cyberattack targeted the power grid in Ladakh, exposing gaps in cyber defence preparedness.
Delays in Defence Modernisation: The slow pace of procurement, bureaucratic hurdles, and over-dependence on imports affect India’s combat readiness. Eg: Delays in acquiring high-altitude drones and next-generation tanks have impacted operational planning in sensitive border areas like Eastern Ladakh.

Way forward:

Promote Jointness and Modernisation: Implement integrated theatre commands and upgrade military technology to ensure faster, coordinated responses.
Strengthen Border and Cyber Security: Deploy smart surveillance systems and enhance cyber defence to counter both conventional and hybrid threats.

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Manipur Crisis

Healing Manipur Fragile peace demands political actors pursue genuine reconciliation

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

Why in the News?

Recently, President’s Rule in Manipur has been extended by another six months from August 13, 2025, amid an ongoing ethnic conflict between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities.

What led to the decline in misuse of the President’s Rule?

S.R. Bommai Judgment (1994) – Judicial Review Introduced: The Supreme Court ruled that the President’s decision under Article 356 is subject to judicial review. Eg: This judgment set a precedent for checking arbitrary dismissals of State governments.

Rise of Coalition Politics and Regional Parties: Since the 1990s, strong regional parties became key players in national coalitions, reducing the Centre’s dominance. Eg: Parties like TDP, DMK, and TMC gained influence during UPA and NDA regimes, deterring misuse.

Increased Public Awareness and Media Scrutiny: Growing media vigilance and civil society activism led to public opposition against politically motivated President’s Rule. Eg: Protests and legal action followed the controversial imposition of President’s Rule in Uttarakhand (2016).

Strengthening of Federal Values and Political Maturity: A maturing democracy and greater respect for federalism encouraged restraint in using Article 356. Eg: Even in politically complex States like Tamil Nadu or Maharashtra, elected governments were allowed to continue despite crises.

Legal and Political Repercussions of Misuse: Judicial reversals and reputational damage have made misuse risky for ruling parties at the Centre. Eg: Arunachal Pradesh (2016) – SC restored the dismissed government, exposing the misuse of President’s Rule.

Why was President’s Rule extended in Manipur?

Continued Ethnic Conflict and Fragile Peace: The deep-rooted ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities remain unresolved. Though violence has reduced, the situation is still fragile, and buffer zones continue to segregate communities.

Political Vacuum after Resignation of N. Biren Singh: The resignation of the Chief Minister and collapse of the elected BJP government led to a governance void, necessitating central intervention.

Need for Security and Rule of Law: Despite some return of displaced families, the situation requires de-weaponisation and control of militant groups. President’s Rule enables stronger administrative and security measures to restore normalcy.

What is the background history of the Manipur Crisis?

Ethnic Composition and Historical Tensions: Manipur is divided between Meiteis (majority, valley-based) and Kuki-Zo tribes (minority, hill-based). Ethnic fault lines have persisted due to political underrepresentation and land ownership issues.

Trigger: Meitei Demand for ST Status: In April 2023, the Manipur High Court asked the state to consider granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to Meiteis. Tribal communities opposed it, fearing erosion of constitutional protections in hill areas.

Outbreak of Violence – May 2023: The “Tribal Solidarity March” on May 3 turned violent, leading to clashes, displacement, and destruction of homes and churches. Over 60,000 people were displaced and more than 200 killed.

Governance Failure and Communal Polarisation: The state government, led by CM N. Biren Singh, was accused of ethnic bias and failure to act impartially. Security forces struggled to maintain order amid growing militia activity and creation of buffer zones.

Central Intervention and Stalemate: The Centre imposed President’s Rule in 2024, but a political solution remains elusive. The Kuki-Zo community is now demanding a separate administration, while tensions continue.

What role should the Centre play in resolving Manipur’s crisis? (Way forward)

Foster Political Dialogue and Reconciliation: The Centre must take proactive political initiatives to bridge the ethnic divide and not leave the crisis entirely to bureaucracy and security forces. Eg: A central-led peace process involving both Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups can build trust and prevent hardliner dominance.

Ensure Rule of Law and Demilitarisation: Continued action is needed to de-weaponise the region and curb militant groups that promote ethnic violence. Eg: The crackdown on armed groups since President’s Rule helped reduce open violence and enabled the return of displaced families.

Support Inclusive Civil Society Engagement: The Centre should empower moderate voices and civil society organisations that seek peace and reconciliation.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2023] Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.

Linkage: This question directly relates to President’s Rule, which is explicitly mentioned in the Manipur source as being extended due to the severe internal security challenges, despite its general decline since the 1990s due to factors like the S.R. Bommai judgment and the rising influence of regional parties. The Manipur situation is a contemporary example of Article 356’s application in a crisis.

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Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

The scientist who made ‘mangroves’ a buzzword

Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

World Mangrove Day was observed on July 26. The occasion also recalled the pioneering role of M.S. Swaminathan in promoting mangrove conservation through initiatives like the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME), GLOMIS, and the fishbone canal method of restoration.

Role of M.S. Swaminathan in mangrove conservation

As early as 1989, he advocated using mangroves for climate resilience in coastal areas.
Proposed developing salinity-tolerant crops (e.g., rice) using mangrove genes.
Played a key role in founding the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) in 1990, promoting global knowledge exchange.
Co-authored the Charter for Mangroves, which was later included in the World Charter for Nature (1992) by the UN.
Led Community-Based Restoration in India through the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF).

What is the ‘fishbone canal’ method? What are its advantages?

The method mimics the natural branching pattern of rivers. It allows tidal waters to penetrate deep into degraded mangrove areas. Eg: In Tamil Nadu’s Pichavaram, fishbone canals revived previously stagnant mangrove zones, promoting natural seed dispersal.

Advantages of the method

Facilitates Natural Regeneration: By improving hydrology, it creates conditions suitable for natural mangrove seedling establishment without extensive manual planting. Eg: In Odisha’s Bhitarkanika, the method led to spontaneous growth of native mangrove species.
Cost-Effective: Compared to large-scale planting, this method is less resource-intensive
It preserves ecosystem integrity.

How have global and national initiatives reshaped mangrove management?

Shift Towards Community-Based Conservation: Focus has moved from government-led to community-driven models, recognising local knowledge and stakeholder participation. Eg: Eg: Sundarbans’ Joint Forest Committees empower villagers in conservation.

Integration with Climate Resilience Strategies: Mangroves are now seen as vital for disaster risk reduction and carbon sequestration. Eg: Indonesia’s “Mangroves for Coastal Resilience” project links mangrove conservation with coastal protection and blue carbon goals.

Technological Interventions and Scientific Planning: Use of GIS mapping, remote sensing, and hydrological modelling has made restoration more precise and scalable. Eg: In Andhra Pradesh, the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project used satellite data to identify degraded mangrove areas for targeted restoration.

How did India’s mangrove policy evolve post-1980 ?

CRZ Inclusion (1991): Mangroves declared ecologically sensitive under CRZ Rules, restricting commercial activity.
Post-Tsunami Shift (2004): Indian Ocean Tsunami highlighted mangroves as bio-shields, leading to their inclusion in disaster risk and coastal zone policies.
Boost in Support (Post-2005): Initiatives like the National Coastal Mission and remote sensing-based mapping promoted monitoring and restoration.

What are ISME and GLOMIS?

ISME (International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems) is a global non-profit organization founded in 1990 to promote the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems through research, training, and international cooperation. It also offers technical support and capacity building for sustainable mangrove management.
GLOMIS (Global Mangrove Database and Information System), developed by ISME, is a centralized database that provides scientific data, GIS mapping, and case studies to support effective mangrove management and policymaking worldwide. GLOMIS serves as a database for mangrove species, restoration efforts, and GIS data.

Way forward:

Strengthen Community-Based Restoration: Empower local communities through training, sustainable livelihood support, and participation in restoration using techniques like the ‘fishbone canal’ method for greater ecological success.
Leverage Technology and Global Networks: Use remote sensing, GIS, and platforms like GLOMIS for monitoring mangrove health, while collaborating with international bodies like ISME to adopt best global practices.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2019] Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in maintaining coastal ecology.

Linkage: This question is directly and explicitly about mangroves, focusing on two key aspects: their depletion and their importance in maintaining coastal ecology. The fact that such a detailed question appeared in the examination signifies the recognized environmental importance and public awareness surrounding mangroves. A scientist’s work to popularize mangroves would logically contribute to this level of public and academic interest.

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Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc

[pib] Lokpal of India

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the News?

The Lokpal of India, India’s central anti-corruption ombudsman, is moving forward to fill 81 approved posts on a deputation basis.

Historical Context of the Lokpal:

Initial Proposal (1966): First proposed by the First Administrative Reforms Commission to tackle high-level corruption.
Legislative Failures (1971–2008): Multiple Lokpal Bills introduced in Parliament but none were passed.
Jan Lokpal Movement (2011): Nationwide agitation led by Anna Hazare demanded a powerful and independent anti-corruption body, catalyzing public and political support.
Enactment of Law (2013): The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was passed in 2013, providing for:
- A Lokpal at the central level.
- Lokayuktas in states.
Formal Establishment (2014): Lokpal of India was notified on January 16, 2014 under Section 3 of the Act.
Initial Functioning: Operated with encadred staff (mostly Central Secretariat Service); became functionally active only in 2019.
Organisational Restructuring (2024):
- Due to rising complaints and staffing gaps, a new Organogram was approved in August–September 2024.
- The Full Bench of Lokpal, using powers under Section 34, sanctioned 81 deputation posts.
- These are stop-gap until regular recruitment begins under the upcoming Service Regulations, 2024.

About Lokpal [vs. Lokayukta, A Comparative Overview]:

	Lokpal (Central)	Lokayukta (State)
Legal Basis	Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013	Also mandated under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 (Section 63); specifics vary by state
Jurisdiction	Covers central public servants, including the Prime Minister (with some exceptions), Ministers, MPs, and officials in Groups A–D	Handles cases involving state public servants, such as Chief Ministers, Ministers, MLAs, and state officials
Appointment	Appointed by the President based on recommendations of a Selection Committee (PM, LoP, CJI, jurist)	Appointed by the Governor; appointment process defined by state legislation
Composition	Chairperson (former CJI/SC judge/eminent person) + up to 8 members (50% from SC/ST/OBC/Women/Minorities)	Composition varies by state; usually includes a Chairperson and members with similar qualifications
Tenure	5 years or until the age of 70, whichever is earlier	Defined by respective state laws
Salary & Removal	Chairperson = salary of CJI; Members = salary of SC Judges; Removal by President after SC inquiry	Modelled on Lokpal Act; removal by Governor based on state-specific processes
Powers	Investigates corruption under Prevention of Corruption Act Can confiscate illegal assets Can refer cases to CBI Jurisdiction over NGOs receiving significant foreign or govt. funds Submits reports to President, tabled in Parliament	Investigates under state anti-corruption laws Can recommend prosecution/disciplinary actions Handles complaints related to state schemes, contracts Submits reports to Governor, tabled in State Legislature
Recent Institutional Reform	In 2024, Lokpal approved a new Organogram and framed Service Regulations, 2024 for structured staffing. As a stopgap, 81 posts are being filled via deputation.	Varies across states; no uniform push for staff standardization as seen at the central level.

[UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements about Lokpal:

I. The power of Lokpal applies to public servants of India, but not to the Indian public servants posted outside India. II. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a Member of the Parliament or a Member of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory, and only the Chief Justice of India, whether incumbent or retired, has to be its Chairperson. III. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a person of less than forty-five years of age on the date of assuming office. IV. Lokpal cannot inquire into the allegations of corruption against a sitting Prime Minister of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) III only* (b) II and III (c) I and IV (d) None of the above statements is correct

[2013] ‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.

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Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

[pib] PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme has been officially launched as the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), effective from 1st August 2025.

About PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

Objective: Promote formal employment and inclusive job creation.
Outlay: ₹99,446 crore (Aug 2025 – July 2027).
Aim: 3.5 crore new jobs, including 1.92 crore first-time entrants into the workforce.
Focus: Expanding EPFO coverage and supporting Viksit Bharat vision.
Sectoral Coverage: Open to all sectors, with special focus on manufacturing for long-term growth.

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Key Features:

Incentives for Employees

- Eligible: First-time EPFO-registered workers earning ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
- Benefit: 1-month EPF wage (max ₹15,000) in two parts — after 6 and 12 months.
- Condition: Completion of a financial literacy programme; Part of the amount is locked in a savings scheme.

Incentives for Employers

- Applies to: New hires with salary ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
- Minimum hires: 2 (if firm <50 employees), 5 (if ≥50).

Incentive per employee/month:

- ₹1,000 (wages ≤ ₹10,000)
- ₹2,000 (₹10,001–₹20,000)
- ₹3,000 (₹20,001–₹1 lakh)
Manufacturing sector: Extended benefits for 3rd & 4th years.

Payment Mechanism

To employees: Direct Benefit Transfer via Aadhaar-based system.
To employers: Paid to PAN-linked bank accounts.

[UPSC 2024] With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements:

1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years

2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary

3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years

4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters

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

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