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  • Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

    Biological Diversity (Access and Benefit Sharing) Regulation, 2025

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

    Why in the News?

    The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released new rules to regulate access to biological resources and ensure fair and equitable benefit sharing, as approved by the Central Government.

    About New Biodiversity Regulation, 2025:

    • It governs how benefits from the use of biological resources and associated traditional knowledge or digital sequence information (DSI) are to be shared.
    • It introduces a tiered benefit-sharing structure based on annual turnover of the user:
      • No sharing for turnover up to ₹5 crore.
      • 0.2% for turnover between ₹5–50 crore.
      • 0.4% for ₹50–250 crore, and 0.6% above ₹250 crore.
    • Users must submit resource usage statements annually if turnover exceeds ₹1 crore.
    • Cultivated medicinal plants are exempt, aligning with the Biodiversity (Amendment) Act, 2023.
    • For high-value or threatened species like red sanders, agarwood, and sandalwood, sharing must be at least 5%, rising to 20% or more for commercial use.
    • The Regulation covers researchers, IP right seekers, and includes digital data as part of benefit sharing for the first time.

    Back2Basics: Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

    • CBD was adopted at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit; it came into force since 29 December 1993 with secretariat in Montreal, Canada.
    • It is ratified by 196 countries, excluding the US.
    • Key objectives:
      • Conservation of biological diversity.
      • Sustainable use of biodiversity components.
      • Fair sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
    • It is governed by the Conference of the Parties (COP), meeting biennially.
    • COP16 (2024) in Colombia established a multilateral benefit-sharing mechanism for Digital Sequence Information (DSI).
    • It ensures fair reward for communities protecting biodiversity when their knowledge or genetic data is used commercially.

    Nagoya Protocol on ABS:

    • It was adopted in 2010, enforced in 2014, it supplements the CBD.
    • It provides a legal framework for fair benefit-sharing from the use of genetic resources with the country of origin or local communities.
    • It strengthens the global framework for responsible biodiversity use.

     

    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:

    1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.

    2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining acces and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.

    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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  • Interstate River Water Dispute

    Water Sharing Dispute between Punjab and Haryana

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

    Why in the News?

    Tensions escalated between Punjab and Haryana after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) decided to release an extra 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana, sparking political and legal opposition from Punjab.

    Water Sharing Dispute between Punjab and Haryana

    About the Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute:

    • The dispute dates back to 1966 when Haryana was created from Punjab and was promised a share of river waters from the Ravi and Beas rivers.
    • The Satluj-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal was proposed to deliver Haryana’s share but remains incomplete due to Punjab’s resistance.
    • The current issue involves Punjab and Haryana over the release of additional water from the Bhakra dam, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
    • On April 30, 2025, BBMB ordered the release of 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana for drinking needs, which Punjab opposed, claiming Haryana had already withdrawn 104% of its annual share.
    • Water levels in the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams are low due to poor snowfall in the Himalayas.
    • Punjab argues that BBMB’s decision is unilateral and has refused to open the Nangal dam sluice gates.

    Inter-State Water Dispute Resolution in India:

    Water Sharing Dispute between Punjab and Haryana

    • Article 262 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to legislate on inter-state river water disputes and bar courts from intervening in such matters.
    • River Boards Act, 1956 allows creation of boards for inter-state river management, but no such board has ever been constituted.
    • Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956 provides for:
      • Conciliation by the Centre among aggrieved states.
      • Tribunal formation if conciliation fails.
    • The 2002 amendment mandates:
      • Formation of a tribunal within 1 year.
      • Tribunal decision within 3 years.
    • Supreme Court cannot question the award of a tribunal but can examine procedural issues.
    • Other prominent disputes include Krishna, Cauvery, and the Satluj Yamuna Link canal disputes.
    [UPSC 2006] Recently Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the linking of two rivers as a link project. Which are these two rivers?

    Options: (a) Betwa and Chambal (b) Betwa and Ken* (c) Chambal and Son (d) Ken and Narmada

     

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  • Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc.

    ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’ GM Rice

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the News?

    India’s Agriculture Minister has introduced ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’, the country’s first genome-edited rice varieties, developed by ICAR. These are also the world’s first genome-edited rice varieties.

    About ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’:

    • Kamala (DRR Dhan 100): Developed by ICAR-IIRR Hyderabad, derived from Samba Mahsuri; shows higher yield, early maturity, drought tolerance.
    • Pusa DST Rice 1: Developed by ICAR-IARI Delhi, based on MTU1010; improves drought and salinity tolerance.
    • Agencies involved: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ICAR-IIRR, ICAR-IARI.
    • They were created using CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing, specifically Site Directed Nuclease 1 (SDN1). It has NO foreign DNA inserted.
    • It has been approved by Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBC) and Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) under relaxed genome-edit rules.

    Specific Benefits Offered:

    • Yield boost:
      • Kamala: +19% over Samba Mahsuri (avg. 5.37 t/ha, max. up to 9 t/ha).
      • Pusa DST Rice 1: +9.6% to +30.4% over MTU1010 under stress conditions.
    • Climate resilience:
      • Kamala: Drought tolerance, early maturity.
      • Pusa DST: Salt and drought tolerance for saline/alkaline/coastal soils.
    • Water saving: Kamala matures 20 days early → saves 3 irrigations, i.e., 7,500 million m³ water.
    • Emission reduction: Cultivation over 5 million ha may reduce 32,000 tonnes GHG emissions (20% drop).
    • Food security support: Improved paddy output enhances India’s average yield, critical for 40% of total foodgrain basket.
    [UPSC 2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:

    1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.

    2.GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.

    3.GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

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  • Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

    Repairability Index (RI) for Mobile and Electronics Sector

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

    Why in the News?

    The Committee formed to design India’s Repairability Index (RI) framework has submitted its report to Department of Consumer Affairs.

    About Repairability Index (RI):

    • The RI is a standardized label that indicates how easily a product can be repaired by assessing multiple parameters.
    • It is designed to empower consumers to make informed decisions and promote sustainable consumption.
    • The RI is applicable initially to smartphones and tablets and uses a 5-point numeric scale for scoring.
    • The six key parameters used to calculate RI are:
      1. Disassembly Depth
      2. Repair Information
      3. Spare Parts Availability
      4. Software Updates
      5. Tools Required
      6. Fasteners Used
    • The scoring covers priority components such as battery, display, cameras, charging port, microphone, speaker, and hinge mechanism.
    • RI labels must be displayed at the point of sale, on e-commerce platforms, and via QR code on packaging.

    Recommendations of the RI Framework:

    • The RI framework must align with global best practices while maintaining ease of doing business for manufacturers.
    • Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will self-declare RI scores based on standard criteria, with no extra compliance burden.
    • A clear scoring methodology has been developed, with weightages assigned to each parameter for key parts.
    • The committee identified smartphones and tablets as the initial focus under the RI framework.
    • Stakeholder consultations included manufacturers, consumer groups, academic bodies, and government departments.
    • The framework complements the existing Right to Repair Portal (launched in 2022), which provides repair-related information across four sectors.
    • The committee emphasized the need for a robust post-sale ecosystem for both urban and rural consumers.
    [UPSC 2021] R2 Code of Practices’ constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of:

    Options: (a) environmentally responsible practices in electronics recycling industry*

    (b) ecological management of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention

    (c) sustainable practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded land

    (d) ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ in the exploitation of natural resources

     

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  • Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

    “China Plus One” Strategy

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Investment Models

    Why in the News?

    Japanese companies, along with other global players, are increasingly turning to India under the China Plus One strategy, aiming to diversify supply chains and reduce overdependence on China.

    About China Plus One Strategy:

    • It is a global business model introduced in 2013 to reduce dependence on China by adding another country to the manufacturing or sourcing base.
    • It emerged due to concerns about geopolitical risks, trade tensions, and regulatory unpredictability in China.
    • The strategy gained momentum after the US–China trade war, China’s Zero-Covid policy, and increasing labour and compliance costs.
    • Its goal is to create resilient and diversified supply chains by operating in China and one or more alternative countries.
    • Vietnam, Mexico, and Taiwan have become early beneficiaries in sectors like machinery, electronics, and transport.

    Benefits for India:

    • India offers a large market, skilled labor, and cost advantages, making it an attractive destination for diversification.
    • The growing digital infrastructure and industrial corridors support the relocation of manufacturing, with government schemes like PLI and Make in India aligning with the China Plus One goals.
    • Challenges:
      • India faces limited integration into global value chains, logistics inefficiencies, and regulatory bottlenecks.
      • Historical protectionist trade policies and lack of participation in trade agreements like RCEP hinder its full potential.
      • To compete with nations like Vietnam or Mexico, India needs labour reforms, improved ease of doing business, and better trade facilitation.
    [UPSC 2021] Consider the following:

    1.Foreign currency convertible bonds 2.Foreign institutional investment with certain conditions 3.Global depository receipts 4.Non-resident external deposits Which of the above can be included in Foreign Direct Investments?

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

     

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  • [3rd May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: A profound shift in the global order

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] ‘The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order”. Elaborate.

    Linkage: India is at a turning point, and the world is becoming more equal, moving away from old colonial ways. As Asia becomes more important again, this change is also affecting how India is seen and positioned globally.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  India is at another turning point, similar to when Vasco da Gama arrived in Kozhikode in 1498 and the local ruler, the Zamorin, failed to act strategically. But this time, it’s not about sea trade routes—it’s about how global value chains are being reshaped through power and influence. This is a crucial moment for India, which is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy. For the past 75 years, the world has followed a post-colonial order known as globalisation. It was based on countries following common rules for the greater good, and divided the world into “donors” and “recipients.” But this idea no longer works, especially after China overtook the U.S. in foreign aid, manufacturing, and global trade share. As a result, institutions like the WTO, UN, and various treaties have become less useful to powerful countries, leading to U.S. pullouts.

    Today’s editorial analyses global value chains as being reshaped through power and influence. This content would help in the GS Paper II (International Relations).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    President Donald Trump is not acting randomly. He is reacting to a world where countries are becoming more equal and breaking free from old colonial ideas, while still trying to keep their fading advantages.

    What shift in global trade is compared to Vasco De Gama’s arrival?

    • Transition from Trade Routes to Value Chains: Vasco De Gama’s 1498 voyage opened sea-based trade routes connecting India to Europe. Today, the world is witnessing a shift from traditional trade to technology-driven global value chains (GVCs), reshaped by geopolitical forces rather than free markets. Eg: The semiconductor supply chain, where countries like Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. dominate chip design and fabrication, reflecting value chain complexity over simple trade.
    • Strategic Inertia vs Strategic Foresight: The Zamorin’s complacency during Vasco’s arrival represents a lack of strategic foresight in seizing global opportunities. India now faces a similar moment and must act strategically to capitalize on the global trade realignment and not miss out like in the colonial past. Eg: India’s PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes in electronics and pharmaceuticals are efforts to plug into global manufacturing chains proactively.
    • Geopolitically Driven Trade Structures: Earlier global trade was commercially motivated, but today it is increasingly geopolitically driven, with blocs forming and multilateralism weakening. Eg: The U.S.-China trade war and decoupling from Chinese supply chains are forcing countries like India to reposition themselves in new GVCs.

    Why is the post-colonial global order losing relevance?

    • Shift from Multilateralism to Bilateralism and Power Politics: The post-colonial world order was built on rule-based multilateral institutions (e.g., WTO, UN), promoting equal participation. Now, major powers prefer bilateral deals that prioritize national interest over global consensus. Eg: The U.S. withdrawing from multilateral agreements like the Paris Climate Accord and WTO dispute mechanisms.
    • Obsolescence of Donor-Recipient Hierarchy: The older order assumed a world divided into ‘donors’ (developed nations) and ‘recipients’ (developing nations). This has become irrelevant as emerging powers like China now surpass traditional Western powers in aid and trade influence. Eg: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has made it a larger global lender than the World Bank in many regions.
    • Erosion of Trust During Global Crises: Global institutions failed to uphold equitable principles during emergencies, revealing self-serving behavior by developed nations. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, G-7 countries hoarded vaccines and medical supplies, sidelining poorer nations and weakening trust in global cooperation.

    Who should lead India’s push for new global governance principles?

    • India’s World-Class Diplomats: India should empower its skilled and experienced diplomatic corps to frame and advocate new governance principles suited to a multipolar world. Eg: Indian diplomats played a key role in shaping the International Solar Alliance, showing leadership in global climate governance.
    • Cooperation Between Political Leadership and Policy Experts: A coordinated approach involving political vision (e.g., Prime Minister’s “Asian Century” narrative) and strategic policy institutions can guide India’s global engagement. Eg: NITI Aayog and MEA’s policy think tanks can jointly shape proposals for reforms in multilateral institutions like the WTO and UN.
    • Engagement with Global South and Emerging Institutions: India must lead with inclusive principles by aligning with BRICS, ASEAN, and the African Union, promoting a fair and tech-driven global order. Eg: India’s BRICS presidency and advocacy for the Global South Voice at G-20 summits shows readiness for leadership beyond the West-dominated system.

    How can India become a global leader in AI and technology?

    • Leverage Human Capital and Digital Infrastructure: India must build on its skilled workforce, vast datasets, and proven digital stack (like Aadhaar, UPI) to drive AI innovation. Eg: IndiaStack enabled large-scale digital public goods, which can now serve as the foundation for developing large language models (LLMs) and AI applications.
    • Promote Open-Source and Indigenous Innovation: Focusing on open-source technologies and encouraging local R&D will allow India to innovate independently and at scale. Eg: India can emulate models like DeepSeek (an open-source AI rivaling U.S. models) to build affordable, accessible AI tools.
    • Create National Consensus and Industry-Academia Collaboration: A national policy consensus involving all stakeholders—governments, academia, and industry—must be built to focus on AI, chips, and deep tech. Eg: China’s rise in hardware was driven by state-industry coordination; India needs similar programs for semiconductors and AI research centers.

    Which regions should India partner with for a new economic framework?

    • ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations): India should collaborate with ASEAN to build an Asian Common Market and leverage regional complementarities in trade, manufacturing, and digital economy. Eg: India’s Act East Policy and its trade agreements with Singapore and Thailand provide a base for deeper economic integration.
    • African Union: Africa offers a growing consumer base and untapped potential for investment in infrastructure, technology, and education. Eg: India’s Pan-African e-Network Project and growing pharma exports make Africa a strategic partner in India’s south-south cooperation.
    • BRICS and Emerging Economies: Collaborating within BRICS helps India shape multipolar global governance and alternative trade norms. Eg: India’s proposal for a BRICS currency system and its role in the New Development Bank demonstrate long-term strategic engagement.
    • Middle East (West Asia): Strong energy ties and growing interest in tech cooperation make the Middle East a key partner in India’s economic future. Eg: The India-UAE CEPA and I2U2 group (India-Israel-UAE-USA) promote trade, food security, and innovation-led partnerships.
    • Latin America and Caribbean (LAC): This region provides opportunities for trade diversification, agricultural cooperation, and technology exchange. Eg: India’s investments in pharmaceuticals and IT sectors in Brazil and Mexico mark a growing footprint in the LAC region.

    Way forward: 

    • Institutionalise Strategic Partnerships: India should formalise economic and technology alliances through frameworks like FTAs, digital cooperation pacts, and regional value chains with emerging regions (ASEAN, Africa, LAC).
    • Champion Inclusive Global Norms: Lead the Global South in advocating reforms in global governance institutions, emphasising equity, sustainability, and tech sovereignty to shape a multipolar, resilient global order.

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Strengthening parliamentary oversight in India

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Why in the News?

    Along with having efficient governance, there should also be a high level of accountability, which should begin with a strong and effective Parliament.

    What mechanisms does the Indian Parliament currently use to ensure executive accountability?

    • Question Hour: A daily session where Members of Parliament (MPs) ask questions to the government, holding the executive accountable for its actions. Eg: During Question Hour, MPs can ask questions on various issues like government policies, spending, and public welfare programs. If the government fails to respond adequately, it is held accountable in front of the public.
    • Zero Hour: An informal session where MPs can raise urgent matters of public importance without prior notice. Eg: In the past, MPs have used Zero Hour to raise concerns about natural disasters, governance issues, or urgent societal problems like price hikes or corruption, which require immediate attention from the government.
    • Standing Committees (e.g., Department-related Standing Committees): These committees examine the policies and functioning of various government departments, scrutinizing their budget proposals, schemes, and implementation. Eg: The Standing Committee on Railways in 2015 recommended waiving dividend payments to Indian Railways to improve its financial health, which was subsequently implemented.
    • No-Confidence Motion: A formal motion in Parliament that can be moved by MPs to express a lack of confidence in the government. If passed, it leads to the resignation of the government. Eg: In the 17th Lok Sabha, a no-confidence motion was raised against the government over issues related to economic policies, though it did not pass, it highlighted the need for greater executive accountability.
    • Public Accounts Committee (PAC): This committee scrutinizes government expenditure and ensures that public funds are used efficiently and for their intended purposes. Eg: The PAC exposed irregularities in the Commonwealth Games 2010, revealing delays, opaque appointments, and corrupt practices, leading to corrective actions and reforms.

    Why has the effectiveness of Question Hour and parliamentary committees declined in recent years?

    • Frequent Disruptions during Question Hour: Question Hour is often disrupted by protests and disruptions, leading to adjournments and reducing the time spent on addressing important government issues. Eg: During the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-24), Question Hour functioned for only 60% of its scheduled time in the Lok Sabha and 52% in Rajya Sabha, limiting its effectiveness in holding the government accountable.
    • Focus on Isolated Queries rather than Systematic Scrutiny: MPs often focus on individual queries rather than engaging in comprehensive, cross-ministerial scrutiny of complex issues, which limits the depth of oversight. Eg: Instead of addressing broader policy issues, MPs tend to ask specific questions that do not contribute to a deeper analysis of government actions or programs.
    • Limited Impact of Parliamentary Committees’ Reports: Despite generating detailed reports, parliamentary committees’ findings are often not discussed in Parliament, leading to a lack of follow-up on recommendations and diminishing their influence on legislation and executive actions. Eg: Even though the Standing Committees on Railways and Transport made significant recommendations, such as waiving the dividend payments and influencing the Motor Vehicles Bill, many committee reports have not led to substantial legislative or executive changes.

    How can technology and data analytics improve the quality of parliamentary scrutiny?

    • AI and Data Analytics for Efficient Scrutiny: Technology can help MPs analyze vast amounts of data, such as budget documents and audit reports, enabling them to quickly identify irregularities and policy trends. Eg: Using AI, Parliament can automatically flag inconsistencies in spending or uncover patterns in policy implementation, helping MPs ask more informed, evidence-based questions during sessions like Question Hour.
    • Enhancing Accessibility and Transparency of Committee Findings: Technology can make parliamentary committee reports more accessible to the public and MPs by translating them into local languages, creating visual explainers, or using short videos. This increases transparency and public engagement while also aiding MPs in scrutinizing complex issues. Eg: The use of visual tools and AI-driven summaries could simplify the analysis of technical reports, helping MPs quickly grasp important findings and engage in more meaningful debates in Parliament.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Post-Legislative Scrutiny: Establish a formal process for tracking the implementation and impact of laws, ensuring timely reviews and corrections. This can be modeled on the UK system, where government departments submit reviews of major laws within a set period.
    • Enhance Technology Integration: Leverage AI, data analytics, and digital tools to support MPs with real-time insights, enabling more effective questioning and in-depth scrutiny of government actions and policies.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2018] Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss, in this context, the role or the Estimates Committee.

    Linkage: General usefulness of parliamentary committees, which are highlighted as crucial mechanisms for accountability and scrutiny. It specifically asks about the Estimates Committee, another important financial committee alongside the PAC. 

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  • Port Infrastructure and Shipping Industry – Sagarmala Project, SDC, CEZ, etc.

    Port economy will drive India’s growth: PM

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that coastal states and port cities will play a major role in India’s growth as it becomes more developed. He was speaking after the launch of the ₹8,800 crore Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala’s capital.

    What is the significance of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport for India’s maritime trade?

    • Strategic Global Location: Located close to the international East-West shipping route, making it ideal for global container traffic. Eg: Ships passing through the Suez Canal–Malacca route can now directly dock at Vizhinjam without diversion, saving cost and time.
    • India’s First Dedicated Transshipment Port: Will handle transshipment of containers that earlier went to foreign ports like Colombo (Sri Lanka), Dubai, or Singapore. Eg: Around 75% of India’s transshipped cargo is currently handled abroad; Vizhinjam aims to reverse this trend and retain revenue domestically.
    • Natural Deep Draft for Large Vessels: With a natural draft of nearly 20 metres, it can host Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) without the need for expensive dredging. Eg: Ports like Colombo or Rotterdam require regular dredging, while Vizhinjam offers cost-effective long-term operations.
    • Boost to Logistics and Trade Efficiency: Reduces logistics costs, cargo handling time, and dependence on intermediate ports, increasing India’s ease of doing business. Eg: Indian exporters from hinterland states can now ship directly via Vizhinjam, avoiding time-consuming rerouting through foreign ports.
    • Economic Multiplier Effect and Self-Reliance: Encourages Make in India, builds maritime self-reliance, and fuels coastal economy development. Eg: Encourages investments in warehousing, ship repair, and allied services around the port zone—generating local employment and GDP growth.

    Why is private sector participation considered crucial in developing port infrastructure in India?

    • Mobilization of Capital and Faster Project Execution: The private sector brings in large-scale investments that the government alone may not be able to allocate promptly. Eg: The ₹8,800 crore Vizhinjam Port was developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) with Adani Ports, accelerating infrastructure delivery.
    • Technological Innovation and Operational Efficiency: Private companies often introduce modern technologies and international best practices, improving service quality and turnaround time. Eg: Mundra Port, operated by Adani Ports, has emerged as one of India’s most efficient ports due to automation and smart logistics.
    • Risk Sharing and Long-Term Sustainability: PPP models allow for shared risks between the public and private sectors, reducing the financial burden on the government and ensuring long-term commitment. Eg: The collaboration between Kerala’s state government and Adani Group in Vizhinjam port demonstrates how risk-sharing enables execution even in ideologically diverse environments.

    Where is the new shipbuilding and repair cluster being set up?

    • Strategic Location in Kochi, Kerala: Kochi has been selected for its existing maritime infrastructure and strategic coastal position. The cluster aims to enhance India’s shipbuilding and repair capabilities, reducing reliance on foreign facilities. Eg: The cluster is being developed through a collaboration between Cochin Shipyard Limited and Drydocks World, aiming to create world-class ship repair facilities in Kochi.
    • Public-Private Partnerships Driving Development: The project leverages public-private partnerships to combine government support with private sector efficiency and investment. This approach is expected to bring in advanced technologies and best practices. Eg: Cochin Shipyard Limited, a government-owned entity, has signed an MoU with Drydocks World to jointly develop the ship repair cluster in Kochi.
    • Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities: The cluster is anticipated to generate substantial employment, particularly benefiting the local population in Kerala. It will also contribute to the growth of ancillary industries and services. Eg: The establishment of the shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi is expected to create numerous new employment opportunities, providing Kerala’s local talent and youth with a platform for growth.

    What opportunities is it expected to create?

    • Job Creation and Skill Development: The new shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, particularly benefiting the local population by providing employment opportunities in shipbuilding, repair, and ancillary services.  
    • Boost to India’s Maritime and Manufacturing Sectors: The cluster will significantly enhance India’s shipbuilding capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign facilities and positioning India as a key player in global shipbuilding and repair.  

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Port Connectivity and Infrastructure: Enhance hinterland connectivity to ensure seamless movement of goods between ports and key industrial zones. Eg: Develop efficient road, rail, and inland waterways to complement the Vizhinjam Port and Kochi shipbuilding cluster.
    • Focus on Skill Development and Innovation: Invest in specialized maritime education and training programs to create a skilled workforce. Eg: Collaborate with global institutions to bring advanced shipbuilding technologies and best practices to India, fostering innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2021] “Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.”Discuss in the light of India’s experience.

    Linkage: Coastal states and port cities will be key growth centres and that strengthening the maritime sector through infrastructure is essential for driving economic power and achieving the full potential of the port economy. Thus, this question aligns with the core idea that ports, as critical infrastructure, are drivers of growth.

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  • Port Infrastructure and Shipping Industry – Sagarmala Project, SDC, CEZ, etc.

    PM inaugurates Vizhinjam Port

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister has formally commissioned India’s first deep-sea transshipment port at Vizhinjam in Kerala.

    About Vizhinjam Port

    • Vizhinjam Port is India’s first deep-sea transshipment port located near Thiruvananthapuram.
    • Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the port cost ₹8,900 crore to build.
    • It is operated by Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt. Ltd., with a 61.5% stake held by Kerala’s government and 9.6% by the Central government.
    • Commercial operations began in December 2024, following a trial run in July 2024.
    • The port has handled 285 ships and processed 5.48 lakh TEUs since its operational launch.
    • Positioned just 10 nautical miles from a major international shipping route, it provides quick access to global trade lanes.

    Notable Features of the Port:

    • It is India’s first semi-automated port, utilizing AI-powered control rooms and the Indigenous Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS).
    • Its deep natural draft (up to 24 meters) allows it to accommodate Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).
    • The current infrastructure includes a 3,000-meter breakwater and an 800-meter container berth, with full capacity expected by 2028–29 at 6.2 million TEUs annually.
    • The port is designed as a multi-purpose, green port, ensuring year-round operations.
    • Positioned 20 kilometers from Trivandrum International Airport, it offers seamless air-sea connectivity.
    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following pairs:

    Port—–Well known as

    1. Kamarajar Port—-First major port in India registered as a company

    2. Mundra Port—–Largest privately owned port in India

    3. Visakhapatnam—-Largest container port in India

    Options: (a) Only one pair  (b) Only two pairs*  (c) All three pairs  (d) None of the pairs

     

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  • Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.

    Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS)

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

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

    About Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS):

    • GHCS aims to certify that hydrogen produced in India meets the criteria to be labelled as “green hydrogen”, based on verified emissions data.
    • The scheme enhances transparency, credibility, and traceability in hydrogen production and supports India’s goal of becoming a global hub for green hydrogen exports.
    • The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is the nodal agency responsible for the implementation of this scheme.
    • Certification under GHCS also helps producers access carbon credits under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), subject to additional requirements.
    • The scheme covers hydrogen produced using electrolysis with renewable energy or biomass conversion.

    Key Features of GHCS:

    • Hydrogen will be certified as “green” if its non-biogenic greenhouse gas emissions are ≤ 2 kg CO₂ equivalent per kg of hydrogen, averaged over 12 months.
    • The certification process includes four stages:
      • Concept Certificate (project design stage)
      • Facility-Level Certificate (infrastructure readiness)
      • Provisional Certificate (early production data)
      • Final Certificate (verified emissions based on actual production)
    • Only the Final Certificate is mandatory for producers seeking government incentives or selling hydrogen in the domestic market.
    • Producers must appoint Accredited Carbon Verification (ACV) agencies for independent verification, recognized by the BEE.
    • The scheme is aligned with international standards like ISO 19870:2023, ensuring global credibility.
    • Certificates are issued in multiples of 100 kg of hydrogen, containing details on emission intensity and production sources.
    [UPSC 2023] With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:

    1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion. 2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation . 3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles. How may of the above statements are correct?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three * (d) None

     

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