Archives: News

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

What is U.S.’s new rule for exporting AI chips?

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Why in the News?

The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) created a system with different levels to control the sale and export of AI chips and technology more effectively.

What is the main objective behind one of the last orders of the Biden administration?

National Security and Foreign Policy: The primary goal of the BIS regulations is to enhance control over the circulation of advanced AI technology and chips to align with U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.
- The regulations aim to prevent sensitive technologies from reaching adversarial nations, thereby mitigating risks associated with military advancements and cyber operations.
Secure Technology Ecosystem: The regulations are designed to cultivate a secure and trusted technology ecosystem that promotes the responsible use and diffusion of AI technologies, ensuring that advanced AI capabilities do not fall into the hands of U.S. adversaries.

How will the tiered framework for licensing and exporting Artificial Intelligence chips work?

Three-Tier System: The new regulations categorize countries into three tiers based on their relationship with the U.S.:
- Tier 1: No restrictions for exports to 18 U.S. allies, including Australia, Canada, and Japan.
- Tier 2: Countries like China and India face caps on volumes and require Validated End User (VEU) authorization for transactions contributing to advanced AI development.
- Tier 3: Arms-embargoed countries such as North Korea and Iran have no access to advanced AI technology.

How has the tech industry responded to the move?

Concerns Over Competitiveness: Major tech companies, including NVIDIA and Oracle, have expressed apprehension that these regulations could undermine U.S. competitiveness in the global tech landscape.
- They argue that restricting access to widely available technologies may not enhance security but instead hinder innovation.
Call for Revisions: Industry leaders hope that the incoming administration will reconsider or withdraw these regulations, citing potential disruptions to business operations and global supply chains.

Will it affect the Indian Economy?

Impact on AI Growth: As India invests heavily in its National AI Mission, which aims to develop infrastructure with over 10,000 GPUs through a ₹10,000 crore investment, the restrictions could pose substantial challenges in scaling up AI capabilities post-2027.
- The limits on GPU imports may deter innovation and slow down the growth of India’s tech sector.
Potential Delays in Infrastructure Development: Major data center providers in India, such as Tata Communications and CtrlS, may face delays or downsizing of their plans due to restricted access to GPUs. This could place Indian companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to their U.S. counterparts.
India’s Exclusion from Trusted Allies: India is not included in the list of trusted U.S. allies due to concerns over the leakage of chips to countries like Russia.

Way forward:

Strengthen Domestic AI Capabilities: India should accelerate the development of indigenous AI technologies and chips to reduce reliance on foreign imports, invest in local R&D and foster partnerships with global tech firms for technology transfer.
Diversify Global Alliances: India could strengthen its technological partnerships with countries outside the U.S. and explore alternative markets to source AI chips, ensuring the diversification of its supply chains to mitigate the impact of export restrictions.

Mains PYQ:

Q “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

[pib] Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Why in the News?

The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to bolster the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector.

About the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

The DIA Scheme permits duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export purposes.
It mandates an export obligation with a value addition of 10%.
Objective: To retain India’s leadership in the global diamond industry value chain by facilitating ease of doing business.
It will be implemented starting April 1, 2025.
Features of the Scheme:
- Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds of less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).
- Export Obligation: Requires a minimum 10% value addition to ensure beneficiation.
- Eligibility: Open to Two Star Export Houses and above; Exporters with annual exports of at least USD 15 million are eligible.
- Support for MSMEs: Provides a level playing field for smaller exporters, enabling them to compete with larger players.
- Global Beneficiation Practices: Inspired by beneficiation policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, where manufacturers must establish cutting and polishing facilities.

India’s Diamond Industry: Current Status

India processes over 90% of the world’s diamonds and provides jobs to approximately 5 million people.
India contributes 19% of total global diamond exports.

Challenges:

Exports Decline:
- 2022: Exports valued at $23 billion.
- 2023: Declined to $16 billion, with further declines anticipated.
Rough Diamond Imports: Fell by 24.5%, from $18.5 billion (FY 2021-22) to $14 billion (FY 2023-24).
Exports of Cut and Polished Diamonds: Dropped by 34.6%, from $24.4 billion (FY 2022) to $13.1 billion (FY 2024).
Inventory Challenges: The gap between net imports of rough diamonds and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from $1.6 billion (FY 2022) to $4.4 billion (FY 2024).
Returns of Unsold Diamonds: The percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India rose from 35% to 45.6% between FY 2022 and FY 2024.

PYQ:

[2018] Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?

(a) Francois Bernier

(b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier

(d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

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

Jawaharlal Nehru Port

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

Why in the News?

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai is on track to become India’s first port to join the ranks of top global ports by handling 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually by 2027.

About the Jawaharlal Nehru Port

JNP is situated in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, covering an area of 200 square kilometers. Its strategic location enables vital trade links with international shipping routes.
Key Features:
- India’s first 100% Landlord Major Port.
- Operates five container terminals, including BMCT, NSICT, and GTIPL.
- Customs facilities: 30 container freight stations and connectivity to 52 inland depots.
- Handles vessels with 9,000 TEUs capacity, soon upgrading to 12,200 TEUs.
- Processes 200 international ships monthly.
Future Developments:
- Fourth Container Terminal operational by April 2025, adding 4.8 million TEUs capacity.
- Developing a satellite port at Vadhvan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha.

Key Highlights of JNPA’s Expansion

In 2024, JNPA handled its highest-ever container volume of 7.05 million TEUs, operating at more than 90% capacity.
The port recorded an 11% year-on-year growth compared to the previous year.
The second phase of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal will add 2.4 million TEUs to JNPA’s total capacity.
The upgradation of Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in 2025 will further enhance the port’s capabilities.
The total container handling capacity is projected to increase from 7.6 million TEUs to 10.4 million TEUs by 2027.

PYQ:

[2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) Chhattisgarh

(d) Rajasthan

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Indian Missile Program Updates

Pinaka Rocket Systems

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Why in the News?

The Indian Army is bolstering its artillery strength with a significant ₹10,200 crore order for ammunition associated with the Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS).

About the Pinaka Rocket System

Details	A multi-barrel rocket launcher developed by DRDO and manufactured by Indian defence firms. Named after the legendary bow of Lord Shiva, symbolizing power and precision.
Key Features	Multiple Launch Capability: Fires 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, delivering overwhelming firepower. Mobility: Mounted on 8×8 or 6×6 trucks, allowing rapid deployment in diverse terrains. Range: – Pinaka Mk-I: 40 km. – Pinaka Mk-II and Enhanced Versions: 60–75 km. – Guided Variant: 90 km, with improved accuracy and reduced collateral damage. Guidance and Precision: Equipped with satellite-based guidance for precision targeting. Payload Options: Carries multiple warheads, including high explosives, incendiaries, anti-personnel, and anti-tank bomblets. Quick Deployment and Reloading: Rapid deployment enables swift counter-strikes. Modularity and Expandability: Modular design supports advanced technology integration for network-centric warfare.
Operational Use	Proven effectiveness in mountainous and rugged terrains. Played a critical role in Indian Army operations, showcasing its adaptability and firepower.
Significance	Boost to Artillery Strength: Enhances the Indian Army’s firepower with new regiments and extended-range rockets. Cornerstone of Modernization: Central to India’s artillery modernization for precision and operational flexibility. Border Security and Deterrence: Secures borders and acts as a strategic deterrent against adversaries. Global Success: Strengthens India’s defense export market and contributes to defense diplomacy.

PYQ:

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

1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.

2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.

3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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ISRO Missions and Discoveries

Mission SCOT

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

Why in the News?

Onboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission, Indian space surveillance firm Digantara successfully launched SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking), the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite.

About Mission SCOT:

Details

World’s first commercial SSA satellite, designed to track and characterize Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission as part of a rideshare program.
Supported by Aditya Birla Ventures and SIDBI.

Note: As part of the Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA), ISRO is also developing a Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network equipped with advanced radars and optical telescopes to strengthen threat analysis and safeguard space assets.

Aims and Objectives

Enhancing Space Safety: Prevent satellite collisions and optimize orbital resources.
Sovereign Surveillance: Strengthen India’s capabilities to protect its space assets.
Technological Leadership: Address gaps in global SSA technologies.
Sustainability: Promote safer and more sustainable space operations.

Features/Significance

Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, unaffected by weather or geography.
Tracks RSOs as small as 5 cm with high revisit rates and accuracy.
Safeguards critical satellites crucial for economic and strategic security.
Optimizes traffic management and enhances collision avoidance.

Contribution to India’s Growth

Demonstrates India’s leadership in SSA technologies.
Highlights the role of Indian startups in space innovation.
Establishes India as a reliable international space partner.
Fosters investment in advanced surveillance technologies for future space developments.

PYQ:

[2010] In the context of space technology, what is “Bhuvan”, recently in the news?

(a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India

(b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II

(d) A space telescope developed by India

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Uniform Civil Code: Triple Talaq debate, Polygamy issue, etc.

Uttarakhand Cabinet approves Uniform Civil Code Manual

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Why in the News?

The Pushkar Dhami Cabinet in Uttarakhand approved the UCC with plans to roll it out after the local body elections. Uttarakhand will be the first state in India to implement the UCC.

What is the Uniform Civil Code?

The UCC refers to a single law that governs personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and succession for all citizens of India, irrespective of their religion.
Constitutional Basis: Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution envisions a UCC to promote national integration by eliminating discrepancies in personal laws.

What are the significance of UCC?

Equality and Justice: UCC ensures equal treatment of all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste, or gender, by replacing diverse personal laws with a unified legal framework. This promotes fairness and eliminates discriminatory practices in personal matters like marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
Gender Parity and Women’s Empowerment: Personal laws often favor patriarchal norms, disadvantaging women in areas like inheritance and divorce. UCC addresses these disparities, granting women equal rights and fostering gender justice.
National Integration: By unifying personal laws across communities, UCC strengthens national unity and reduces divisions based on religion or community-specific laws. It promotes secularism and reinforces the idea of “one nation, one law”.
Simplification of Legal Systems: A common civil code simplifies the legal process by eliminating inconsistencies among various personal laws, making it easier for citizens to understand their rights and obligations.
Closing Loopholes in Personal Laws: UCC addresses biases and loopholes in existing personal laws that perpetuate inequality or favouritism, ensuring a more just legal system for all citizens.

What is the Judicial stand on it?

Mohd. Ahmed Khan vs. Shah Bano Begum (1985): This case marked a pivotal moment when the Supreme Court urged the government to enact a UCC.
- The Court highlighted that a common civil code would promote national integration by eliminating conflicting loyalties to different personal laws.
Jordan Diengdeh vs. S.S. Chopra (1985): The Court reiterated the “immediate and compulsive need for a uniform civil code”.
Sarla Mudgal vs. Union of India (1995): In this case, the Supreme Court criticised the government’s inaction regarding the UCC, asserting that over 80% of citizens were already governed by codified personal laws and that there was no justification for delaying its introduction any further.
John Vallamattom vs. Union of India (2003): The Supreme Court again stressed the need for a UCC, lamenting that Article 44 had not been implemented and reiterating its role in fostering national unity by resolving contradictions arising from diverse personal laws.
Shayara Bano vs. Union of India (2017): In addressing the issue of triple talaq, the Supreme Court underscored that the Constitution mandates the state to provide for a UCC to address various social injustices and legal inconsistencies stemming from personal laws.
Jose Paulo Coutinho vs. Maria Luiza Valentina Pereira (2019): The Court expressed disappointment over the lack of progress towards a UCC, noting that while personal laws reflect religious beliefs, they should not be exempt from reform in a secular state.

What are the challenges?

Cultural Resistance: There is significant opposition from various religious groups who view the UCC as an infringement on their cultural and religious practices. This resistance can lead to social unrest and political backlash.
Political Controversy: The UCC is often a contentious political issue, with parties divided along ideological lines. This can complicate legislative processes and delay implementation.
Legal Complexity: The integration of diverse personal laws into a single code poses substantial legal challenges. Ensuring that the new code respects individual rights while being comprehensive enough to address various community needs requires careful drafting.
Awareness and Training: Effective implementation requires extensive training for officials and awareness campaigns for citizens to understand their rights under the new code. This necessitates significant resources and time.

Way forward:

Phased Implementation and Pilot Projects: Begin with optional UCC adoption in specific regions or for limited personal law aspects (e.g., marriage or inheritance) to test feasibility and address concerns gradually.
Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement: Conduct extensive consultations with religious leaders, community representatives, and legal experts to build consensus and ensure the code respects India’s diversity while upholding constitutional values.

Mains PYQ:

Q Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

Under Trump, US withdraws from WHO: Impact, what this means for India

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

Why in the News?

On his first day in office, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order to pull the country out of the World Health Organization (WHO).

What will be the Impact of USA’s withdrawal from WHO?

Funding Shortfall for WHO: The USA accounted for 22.5% of WHO’s assessed contributions and approximately 13% of voluntary contributions in 2023.
- The funding gap may affect WHO’s ability to implement health programs globally.
Disruption of Global Health Programs: WHO’s work in areas such as pandemics, neglected tropical diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and vaccination programs could face setbacks.
- Loss of technical collaboration between the US CDC and WHO may weaken disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.
Increased Influence of China: The vacuum left by the US could amplify China’s role within WHO, leading to concerns over political influence and transparency.
Undermining Global Health Equity: Withdrawal may hinder equitable access to healthcare resources, including vaccines and medicines, in developing nations.
Undermining Pandemic Treaty: The US will cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty, affecting the framework for global cooperation on future pandemics.

What are the Major Global Institutions and Challenges Faced by them?

United Nations (UN): Political divisions among member states, limited enforcement power, and funding constraints. The UN’s peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts often face resource shortages and geopolitical interference.
World Health Organization (WHO): Criticism for its pandemic response, reliance on voluntary funding, and political influence from member states. The WHO struggles to maintain independence and effectiveness in global health governance.
World Trade Organization (WTO): Increasing protectionism, trade disputes among major economies, and calls for reform to address inequities in global trade rules. The WTO faces difficulties in resolving conflicts like U.S.-China trade tensions.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank: Criticism of conditional lending practices, perceived bias favoring wealthier nations, and inefficiencies in addressing poverty and economic disparities. Both institutions face calls for governance reforms to better represent developing countries.
Regional Organizations (e.g., EU, African Union): Economic disparities among members, political instability, and resource limitations. For example, the EU faces challenges like migration issues and the aftermath of Brexit, while the African Union struggles with conflict resolution and development goals.

What would be the Impact on India?

Funding Shortfalls for WHO Programs: The U.S. contributes approximately 15-20% of WHO’s budget, amounting to around $600 million annually.
- This withdrawal could lead to significant funding gaps for various health programs like India’s immunisation programs that India benefits from, such as those addressing neglected tropical diseases, HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
Loss of Technical Expertise: The departure of U.S. experts from WHO committees could limit the organization’s ability to provide comprehensive guidelines and support for health policies in India.

What are the reforms needed in Global Institutions?

Enhanced Representation and Inclusivity: Need to expand the UN Security Council and restructure voting power in organizations like the IMF and World Bank to ensure equitable decision-making.
Increased Transparency and Accountability: There is a pressing need for improved transparency in decision-making processes within global institutions. This includes establishing clear accountability mechanisms to address concerns about corruption, inefficiency, and lack of responsiveness to member states’ needs.

Mains PYQ:

Q Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Foreign Policy Watch: India – EU

India outlines 6-board principles to boost economic ties with EU

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

Recently, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted six key principles to strengthen the partnership between India and the European Union during a meeting with Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security.

What are the Six Broad Principles between the EU and India?

Common Values: Establish a partnership based on shared values of democracy, rule of law, and an independent judiciary.
Fair Trade Agenda: Develop a commercially meaningful trade agenda that addresses tariff and non-tariff barriers, ensuring benefits for small and medium enterprises, farmers, and fishermen.
High-Quality Production: Engage in the exchange of best practices and harmonization of standards to achieve “zero defect” and “zero effect” production capabilities.
Technological Collaboration: Work together to develop cutting-edge technologies and secure critical raw material supply chains, enhancing resilience against non-market economies.
Sustainable Development: Cooperate on trade and sustainable development while respecting differing levels of development among nations, adhering to the principle of common but differentiated responsibility.
Mutual Growth: Leverage India’s young talent pool to act as a bridge for mutual growth and development with the EU.

What is the Significance of the EU for India?

Largest Trading Partner: The EU is India’s largest regional trading partner, accounting for approximately 12.2% of India’s total trade in goods as of 2023. This relationship facilitates substantial trade flows, with trade in goods reaching around €124 billion and trade in services amounting to €50.8 billion in 2023.
Major Source of Investment: The EU is a leading source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India, with an investment stock of approximately €108.3 billion in 2022. This investment supports job creation and economic development across various sectors in India.
Technology Transfer and Innovation: The EU serves as a primary source of technology transfer to India, aiding in the development of critical sectors such as infrastructure, green technology, and digital solutions. This collaboration is vital for India’s aspirations to modernize its economy and enhance its global competitiveness.
Strategic Partnership: The EU-India relationship is built on shared values such as democracy and human rights. It has evolved into a strategic partnership that addresses global challenges, including climate change, security threats, and sustainable development. This partnership is crucial for both entities to enhance their roles in global governance.
Geopolitical Considerations: With the rise of assertive powers like China and shifting U.S. policies, the EU recognizes the importance of a robust partnership with India as a counterbalance in the region. Strengthening ties with India aligns with the EU’s goals of promoting multilateralism and addressing common security interests.

Evolution of India-EU Relations:

Foundational Agreements and Strategic Partnership: India-EU relations date back to the early 1960s, with India being one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with the European Economic Community.
- The relationship was formalized through the Joint Political Statement in 1993 and the Cooperation Agreement in 1994, which expanded cooperation beyond trade.
- In 2004, at the 5th India-EU Summit, the relationship was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership, marking a significant milestone in bilateral ties.
Joint Action Plan and Enhanced Cooperation: Following the strategic partnership, a Joint Action Plan was adopted in 2005 and reviewed in 2008, focusing on strengthening dialogue and cooperation across various sectors including trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects: In 2022, India and the EU celebrated 60 years of bilateral relations by relaunching negotiations for a Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), which had stalled since 2013.

What are the challenges between India and the EU?

Trade Barriers and Market Access: Indian companies face increasing non-tariff barriers when trying to access EU markets, including stringent technical regulations, phytosanitary measures, and compliance standards. These barriers hinder the export of Indian goods and services, complicating efforts to establish a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU.
- Also, India is cautious about reducing high tariffs on sensitive sectors like automobiles and agricultural products, which the EU seeks to liberalize.
Mobility of Professionals and Services Liberalization: The lack of a common working visa system in the EU restricts the free movement of Indian professionals across member states. India seeks greater access for its skilled workers in the EU, while the EU demands liberalization of India’s professional services sector, particularly in accountancy and legal services.

Way forward:

Balanced Trade Agreement: Prioritize resolving key differences in tariff reductions and non-tariff barriers, especially in sensitive sectors like automobiles, agriculture, and professional services, while ensuring fair market access for both sides to boost mutual economic growth.
Enhanced Mobility and Collaboration: Establish frameworks for the free movement of professionals and expand cooperation in technology transfer, sustainable development, and resilient supply chains, leveraging India’s skilled workforce and the EU’s technological advancements.

Mains PYQ:

Q ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

What is the status of the Smart Cities Mission?

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

Why in the News?

The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative launched during the NDA-1 government, has lost prominence in this year’s list of electoral promises and accomplishments.

What are smart cities?

The Government of India defines smart cities as urban areas that provide core infrastructure, ensure a decent quality of life, promote a clean and sustainable environment, and utilize smart solutions for inclusive development.

What are the two major aspects of the Smart Cities Mission?

Area-Based Development (ABD): This includes three components:
- Redevelopment: Transforming existing urban areas.
- Retrofitting: Improving infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.
- Greenfield Development: Creating new urban spaces with modern infrastructure.
Pan-City Solutions: These involve applying smart solutions across the entire city, enhancing services through technology and improving overall urban management and governance.

Why did the implementation of smart cities bypass local government?

Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Model: The SCM employed a governance structure that relied heavily on Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), which were set up as limited companies under the Companies Act.
- This model often sidelined local elected councils, as SPVs were typically led by bureaucrats or representatives from multinational corporations, limiting local government involvement in decision-making processes.
Top-Down Approach: Critics argue that the SPV model was too top-down, lacking alignment with the 74th Constitutional Amendment, which emphasizes decentralized governance. This disconnect resulted in many cities objecting to the governance structure, as it did not adequately reflect the needs and demands of local populations.
Competitive Selection Process: The selection of cities was based on a competitive process that did not account for the diverse urban realities across India. This approach led to an exclusionary scheme where only small portions of cities were targeted for development, often ignoring broader community needs and existing urban dynamics.
Limited Local Engagement: The mission’s design did not prioritize citizen participation or local stakeholder engagement effectively, which is crucial for understanding and addressing unique urban challenges. This lack of engagement contributed to projects that did not resonate with the actual needs of residents.

What has happened to the mission in Shimla?

Project Value and Status: The ongoing projects in Shimla are valued at approximately ₹150 crore and are still in the early stages of construction. Key initiatives include the assembly flyover and various parking facilities, with tenders currently being processed.
Funding: The Union Government has allocated a total of ₹500 crore to Shimla under the SCM, with two installments of ₹98 crore still pending. The overall budget for the mission in Shimla is ₹750 crore, which includes a contribution of ₹250 crore from the state government.
Unfinished Projects: Despite the extension, several projects remain incomplete, including those at IGMC, Auckland, and Vikas Nagar. Additionally, construction for the bus stand parking area has not yet commenced.

What are the achievements of Smart City Mission?

Project Completion: As of December 2024, 91% of the total projects under the SCM have been completed, with 7,380 out of 8,075 projects finalized. This reflects significant progress in urban development initiatives across 100 selected cities.
Investment and Infrastructure: The mission has seen an investment of approximately ₹1,47,704 crore. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, governance improvements, and social services such as housing, transport, education, and healthcare.
Technological Integration: All 100 smart cities have established Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs), which utilize data analytics and emerging technologies like AI and IoT to manage urban services more effectively. These centres played crucial roles during the COVID-19 pandemic by functioning as operational hubs.
Public Safety Enhancements: Over 84,000 CCTV cameras have been installed for enhanced surveillance, along with emergency call boxes and public address systems to improve public safety.
Solid Waste Management: The mission has improved solid waste management practices in over 66 cities through technology integration, enhancing efficiency in waste collection and management.
Mobility Improvements: The development of smart roads and cycle tracks has been a significant focus, with over 1,740 kilometres of roads constructed or improved under the mission.

What are the challenges related to Smart City Mission?

Disparity in Performance: While some cities have exceeded their project targets significantly, others have struggled to meet even basic completion goals. Reports indicate that 66 out of the 100 cities have not met their physical targets as of January 2023, highlighting a stark disparity in performance across regions.
Limited Impact on Quality of Life: Critics argue that despite substantial investments, there has been little improvement in fundamental quality-of-life issues for citizens, such as access to clean water and affordable housing. The mission’s focus on high-tech solutions has sometimes overshadowed pressing social needs.
Financial Constraints: Many local governing bodies face challenges in raising funds for projects due to financial limitations and resistance from citizens regarding user charges for services provided under the mission. This has hindered project execution in several cities.
Implementation Delays: A significant number of projects remain incomplete or are stuck at various stages due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of coordination among stakeholders involved in the SCM.

Way forward:

Strengthen Decentralized Governance: Empower local governments by aligning the SCM governance model with the 74th Constitutional Amendment. Involve elected councils and local stakeholders in planning, implementation, and decision-making to ensure projects reflect community needs and realities.
Enhance Financial and Technical Capacities: Provide cities with access to sustainable funding mechanisms, including better public-private partnership models, while building technical expertise for efficient project execution and addressing socio-environmental challenges comprehensively.

Mains PYQ:

Q What are ‘Smart Cities’? examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ‘Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

In news: Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

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

Why in the News?

The Kalaburagi Forest Division is working to relocate a hamlet within the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary on the Karnataka-Telangana border to a safer area.

About the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

Details	Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2011, covering 134.88 sq. km. Recognized as the first dryland Wildlife Sanctuary in South India. Located in the Kalaburagi District, renowned for its floristic diversity. Contributes to the conservation of dryland ecosystems.
Geographical Location	Situated in the Hyderabad Karnataka region. Features the Chandrampalli Dam and four smaller dams within the sanctuary.
Flora and Fauna	Flora: Rich in medicinal plants and tree species like Red Sanders, Sandalwood, Acacia, and Teak. Fauna: Mammals: Blackbuck, Common Fox, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Wolf, Hyena, and Fruit Bat. Birds: Over 35 species, including Black Drongo, Black-winged Kite, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Blue Pigeon, Black-headed Oriole, and Grey Partridge.
Climatic/Geographical Features	Comprises dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests. Fringes are planted with Acacia and Teak. Supports a dryland ecosystem with water bodies like the Chandrampalli Dam. Features a mix of arid and semi-moist climatic conditions.

PYQ:

[2018] In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located?

(a) Arunachal Pradesh

(b) Manipur

(d) Nagaland

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