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Type: PIB

  • [pib] Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme

    Why in the News?

    • The government has a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to regulate the subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, based on international prices of raw materials and fluctuations in the global market.
    Note:  Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is provided to farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP), irrespective of its cost of production.

    About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:

    Details
    About • Introduced to provide subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers, based on nutrient content, excluding Urea.
    • Aims to promote balanced fertilization by encouraging use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition.
    Structure and Functioning • Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Implemented by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Scope: Applies to Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea).
    • Governance: Subsidy rates are decided annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
    Aims and Objectives • Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium to complement Nitrogen and improve soil health.
    • Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Aims to reduce over-reliance on Urea and improve use of other essential nutrients.
    • Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible to farmers.

     

    About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea 

    • The NIP for Urea was announced by the Government of India in 2012 to increase domestic urea production capacity and reduce dependence on urea imports.
    • The policy aims to revive old urea plants and promote investment in new plants to meet the growing demand for urea.
    • The NIP focuses on improving fertilizer availability, and ensuring self-sufficiency in urea production.

    Urea Pricing after NIP

    • The pricing of urea is controlled by the government, and the subsidy mechanism ensures affordable pricing for farmers.
    • The government provides subsidies to urea manufacturers to bridge the gap between the cost of production and the retail price, which is kept constant at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023) for farmers.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:

    1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.

    2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.

    3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] India and ADB sign $98 million loan to promote Plants Health management

    Why in the News?

    • The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to support the Building India’s Clean Plant Programme.

    Aims and Objectives

    • The $98 million loan focuses on improving horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials.
    • The primary aim is to boost the yield, quality, and resilience of crops, particularly in response to the impacts of climate change.

    About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):

    Details • Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to enhance plant health management in India.
    • Aimed at providing farmers access to clean, disease-free planting materials.
    • Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will set up Clean Plant Centers across the country.
    • Ensures global competitiveness of the Indian horticulture sector.
    • Key Objectives:
    – Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health management.
    – Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural crops.
    – Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for success.
    • Funding: ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and diagnostic testing facilities at Clean Plant Centres.
    • Will include a certification scheme for private nurseries to produce disease-free planting materials.
    Where does India stand in its Horticulture Sector? • In 2022-23, India’s horticulture production reached 351.92 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain production.
    • Second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world; Contributes about 33% to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA).
    • Ranks first in the production of crops like Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
    • Steady increase in horticulture production driven by proactive government policies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?

    [2018] Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?

  • [pib] Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)

    Why in the News?

    The Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) has been established to support the development of urban infrastructure in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

    About Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF):

    Details
    What is it? • Established (budget speech for Financial Year 2023-24) to utilize priority sector lending shortfall for financing urban infrastructure projects.
    • Managed by the National Housing Bank (NHB).
    • Initial Corpus: ₹10,000 crore.
    • Modeled after the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), which supports rural infrastructure projects.
    • Focus on developing Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India.

    • Tier-2 Cities: Cities with populations between 50,000 and 1 lakh.
    • Tier-3 Cities: Cities with populations below 50,000.
    Aims and Objectives • Support Urban Infrastructure: Provides funding for essential urban services such as water supply, sanitation, sewerage, and waste management.
    • Sewerage, water supply, sanitation, drains, and solid waste management.
    • Prioritizes projects with significant improvements in urban services.
    • Funds are allocated to Municipal Corporations and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for infrastructure development.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation • Coverage: Supports 459 Tier-2 cities and 580 Tier-3 cities in India.
    • Loan Terms: Loans offered at Bank Rate minus 1.5% interest rate.
    • Repayment Terms: Loan repayable in five equal annual instalments over seven years.
    • Moratorium Period: Two years before repayment starts.
    • Quarterly Interest Payments: Regular payments required during the loan period.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
    2. It has a corpus of Rs 4,00,000 crore at present.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • [pib] Salient Features of AMRUT 2.0

    Why in the News?

    The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 is a scheme launched on October 1, 2021 continues to make strides towards transforming Indian cities into self-reliant and water-secure urban areas.

    Back2Basics: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)

    • It is a flagship urban development scheme launched in June 2015.
    • The mission is being operated as a Central Sponsored Scheme.
    • Aim: To provide basic urban infrastructure to improve the quality of life in cities and towns.
    • Objectives:  
      • Ensure that every household has access to a tap with an assured water supply and a sewerage connection.
      • Increase the green areas in the cities.
      • Reduce pollution by promoting public transport and constructing facilities for non-motorized transport.
    • Funding: It is divided among States/UTs in an equitable formula in which 50:50 weightage.
    • It covers 500 cities including all cities and towns with a population of over 1 lakh with notified Municipalities.

    About AMRUT 2.0:

    Details • Launched on 1st October 2021 as the continuation of AMRUT 1.0.
    • Aims to enhance urban infrastructure in 500 cities by focusing on water supply, wastewater management, and rejuvenation of water bodies.
    • The mission runs for five years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).
    Salient Features and Mission • Universal Coverage: Ensures coverage of water supply and sewerage in 500 cities and 4,900 statutory towns.
    • Circular Economy: Focuses on water recycling, reuse of treated sewage, and water conservation.
    • Technology Integration: Adopts global technologies for better water management.
    • Pey Jal Survekshan: Survey to assess water distribution, wastewater reuse, and promote healthy competition among cities.
    Its Implementation and Further Roadmap • Project Approval: 8,998 projects approved with an estimated cost of ₹1,89,458.55 crore.
    • Funds Distribution: Funds released by MoHUA to States/UTs and then to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
    • State Water Action Plan (SWAP): States/UTs must complete their SWAP and get approval within two years of the mission’s launch.
    • Future Plans: Focus on sustainable water management and extension of AMRUT 1.0 benefits to more towns.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, a Metropolitan Planning Committee

    1. is constituted under the provisions of the Constitution of India.

    2. prepares the draft development plans for metropolitan area.

    3. has the sole responsibility for implementing Government sponsored schemes in the metropolitan area.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • The Copyright Act, 1957

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing copyright dispute between actors Dhanush and Nayanthara highlights the complexities of copyright law and its potential misuse in the film industry.

    What is the dispute?

    • The case revolves around South Indian actor Dhanush suing actress Nayanthara for using excerpts from their 2015 film in a biopic without his consent.
    • Nayanthara claims she had sought permission earlier, but Dhanush’s company, which produced the film, did not respond, leading to the lawsuit over copyright infringement.

    About The Copyright Act, 1957:

    Details
    What is it? • Enacted in 1957 to protect creators’ rights over original works.
    • Objective: To encourage creativity while balancing public access.
    • Grants exclusive rights to authors and creators for reproduction, distribution, and public performance of their works.
    • The Act has been amended to address digital content and technological advancements.
    Features and Provisions of the Act • Scope: Covers literary, musical, artistic works, cinematograph films, sound recordings, and more.
    • Duration: Copyright lasts life of author + 60 years for literary, musical, and dramatic works, and 60 years for films/sound recordings.
    • Exclusive Rights: Right to reproduce, distribute, perform, and adapt works.
    • Moral Rights: Includes right to attribution and integrity of the work.
    What does Section 52 say? • Section 52 lists exceptions allowing use of copyrighted works without permission in specific situations.
    • Fair Use: For criticism, review, news reporting, teaching, research, and private use.
    • Includes exceptions for libraries, archives, and government use.
    • Important for education and public access—enables non-commercial use of works.

     

    PYQ:

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

    [2017] With reference to the ‘National Intellectual Property Rights Policy’, consider the following statements:

    1. It reiterates India’s commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and the TRIPS Agreement.
    2. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion is the nodal agency for regulating intellectual property rights in India.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

  • [pib] India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)

    Why in the News?

    The Minister of State for Communications has provided crucial information about the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB).

    About India Post Payments Bank (IPPB):

    Details
    What is it? Division of India Post under the Ministry of Communications, launched in 2018.

    Operates as payments bank.
    Vision and Principles • Objective: Promote financial inclusion by providing accessible and affordable financial services.
    • Customer-Centric: Focuses on delivering secure and affordable banking to rural and underserved areas.
    Empowerment Initiatives by IPPB • Financial Inclusion: Offers savings accounts, current accounts, money transfers, bill payments, and insurance.
    • Aadhaar-Linked Services: Implements Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for easy and secure transactions.
    • Doorstep Banking: Provides banking services through 3 lakh postmen and Grameen Dak Sewaks.
    • Rapid Expansion: Reached 4 crore customers by December 2020 and crossed 8 crore customers by January 2022, with over 9 crore customers as of March 2024.

     

    Back2Basics: Payments Bank

    • A payments bank operates like a regular bank but without credit risk.
    • It was set up based on the recommendations of the Nachiket Mor Committee.
    • Objective: To promote financial inclusion, especially in unbanked areas, serving migrant workers, low-income households, and small entrepreneurs.
    • Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act, 2013, and licensed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
    • Governed by the Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, 1934, and the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
    • Services Offered:
        • Minimum paid-up equity capital is Rs. 100 crores.
        • Can accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000 in savings and current accounts.
        • 75% of deposits must be invested in government securities (SLR), with the remaining 25% placed as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
        • Offers remittance services, mobile payments, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
        • Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for credit and other services.
    • Limitations:
      • Cannot issue loans or credit cards.
      • Cannot accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
      • Cannot set up subsidiaries for non-banking financial activities.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following links all the ATMs in India?

    (a) Indian banks’ Association

    (b) National Securities Depository Limited

    (c) National Payments Corporation of India

    (d) Reserve Bank of India

  • [pib] Schemes Implemented in Science and Technology

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Science and Technology, through its three key departments — Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) — is implementing various schemes to bolster the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem across India.

    Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Science and Technology (DST)

    Scheme   Objective Key Components
    Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building (2015) Enhance human resource development and institutional capacity in science and technology. – Fellowships at various levels (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, post-doctoral).
    – Establishment of sophisticated R&D facilities.
    – Capacity building for faculty.
    Research and Development (R&D) (2009) Support research in fundamental, applied, and translational sciences. – Collaborative research with universities, government, and private sectors.
    – International research cooperation.
    – Focus on diverse sectors like health, energy, and IT.
    Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment (2016) Foster innovation and facilitate the development of new technologies for national development. – Technology incubation centers.
    – Technology transfer and commercialization.
    – Support for startups and entrepreneurs.
    National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) (2017) Promote interdisciplinary research in Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) that integrate computational algorithms with physical processes. – Development of CPS technologies (e.g., IoT, smart cities, advanced manufacturing).
    – Setting up innovation centers and testbeds for CPS.
    National Quantum Mission (NQM) (2023) Advance quantum technologies for solving national challenges in energy, communications, and security. – Research in quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing.
    – Establishment of quantum technology hubs and research centers.

     

    Schemes Implemented Under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

    Scheme Objective Key Components
    Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) (2017) Foster innovation in biotechnology through research, industrial development, and entrepreneurship. – Biotechnology R&D: Funding for research projects.
    – Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED): Support for biotech startups and industrial innovations.
    – Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry: Development of manufacturing and biotechnological production systems.

  • [pib] #AbKoiBahanaNahi Campaign

    Why in the News?

    The #AbKoiBahanaNahi national campaign was launched in New Delhi to empower women and end gender-based violence.

    About the #AbKoiBahanaNahi Campaign:

    About • Launched By:
    – Ministries of Women and Child Development
    – Ministries of Rural Development
    – Support from UN Women
    Aims and Objectives • End Gender-Based Violence: Create awareness and urgency to end violence against women and girls across India.
    • Dignity and Equality: Promote women’s dignity by empowering them to report violence and fight for their rights.
    • Gender Equality in Economy: Ensure full, equal participation of women in all sectors for building a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
    Implementation and Structural Mandate • National Call to Action: urging all stakeholders—citizens, NGOs, and government agencies—to actively work towards ending gender-based violence.
    • Alignment with Global Campaigns: The campaign aligns with the UN’s #NoExcuse global initiative, which calls for accountability and action against rising violence.
    • Supportive Interventions: Government measures to reduce women’s drudgery, ensure financial inclusion, bridge the gender digital divide, and provide safe spaces for women.
    Significance • Empowerment for Dignity: The campaign empowers women to fight for their dignity, free from societal constraints.
    • Women’s Role in National Development: Reinforces that achieving gender equality is crucial for India’s development by 2047.
    • Support to Women’s Rights: Promotes a holistic approach to women’s rights, ensuring gender-sensitive laws, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.

    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) successfully concluded the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 campaign on September 21st, 2024, organizing beach clean-up drives at more than 80 locations across India’s coastline.

    What is Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0?

    • It is a 75-day citizen-led campaign for improving ocean health through collective action.
    • It is the third edition of a flagship initiative launched to raise awareness about marine pollution and promote the conservation of coastal areas.
    • The campaign is part of India’s broader Swachh Bharat Mission and Swachhata Hi Seva initiative and aims to promote cleanliness, sustainable practices, and protect marine ecosystems.
    • It also commemorated International Coastal Cleanup Day.

    Key Highlights 

    • More than 60 tons of waste were removed, including plastic, metal, cloth, rubber, and wood debris.
    • The campaign promoted sustainable coastal practices and encourages communities to adopt eco-friendly habits, playing a vital role in reducing marine debris and conserving biodiversity.

  • [pib] Oeko-Tex Certification for Eri Silk

    Why in the News?

    The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), has achieved the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk.  

    What is Oeko-Tex Certification?

     Details
    EstablishmentFounded in 1992 by the Oeko-Tex Association.

    Comprises 18 independent textile research and testing institutes.

    Certification SystemIndependent testing and certification for textile safety and environmental standards.
    Key Standards– STANDARD 100: Tests textiles for harmful substances.
    – MADE IN GREEN: Ensures environmentally friendly and socially responsible production.
    – LEATHER STANDARD: For leather products, free from harmful chemicals.
    – STeP: Certification for sustainable textile production facilities.
    – ECO PASSPORT: Certifies safe chemicals used in textiles.
    – DETOX TO ZERO: Supports elimination of hazardous chemicals in production.
    Testing ProcessProducts tested for harmful substances like heavy metals, formaldehyde, azo dyes, etc.
    Global RecognitionTrusted worldwide for ensuring product safety, environmental friendliness, and social responsibility.
    Benefits– Consumers: Assurance of safe, chemical-free products.
    – Manufacturers: Access to global markets, improved brand reputation.
    – Environment: Promotes sustainable and eco-friendly production.
    UsageFound on clothing, home textiles, bedding, footwear, and more.

    About Eri Silk 

    • Eri Silk is the world’s only vegan silk, where the moth naturally exits the cocoon, making it cruelty-free.
      • Unlike conventional silk production, where cocoons are boiled to extract the silk filament.
    • It is also known as Ahimsa Silk.
    • It is primarily produced in the North-Eastern states of India, especially Assam; also found in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, and other states.
    • Its production is deeply rooted in the traditions of tribal communities in Assam and adjacent hill areas.

    Significant Features of Eri Silk:

    • Production Process: Known as Ericulture; involves rearing silkworms on castor plants; the silk is spun rather than reeled due to the naturally pierced cocoons.
    • Eco-Friendly: Requires minimal chemicals and water; only 20 litters of water needed to convert 1 kg of raw Eri fiber into yarn.
    • Unique Properties: Isothermal (temperature-regulating), anti-fungal, washable, durable, and less shiny than other silks.

    PYQ:

    [2013] What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their application in aviation and automobile industries. (100 words)