JULY 8 – UPSC Current Affairs – PM IAS

Practice of Witchcraft in India: A Persistent Social Evil

Syllabus: GS1/Social Issues (Poverty and Developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies; Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies); GS2/Governance (Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation); GS3/Internal Security (Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism).

Context: Despite significant progress in various spheres, the practice of witchcraft and the brutal phenomenon of witch-hunting continue to plague parts of India, particularly in impoverished and remote rural areas. This deeply rooted social evil, often disguised by superstition, is a severe violation of human rights and a stark reminder of existing socio-economic inequalities and a lack of scientific temper.

More About the News:

• Prevalence: Witch-hunting is alarmingly prevalent in states such as Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and parts of Assam and West Bengal. These regions often share characteristics of high poverty, illiteracy, and limited access to public services.
• Victims: The overwhelming majority of victims are women, particularly those who are elderly, single, widowed, childless, or belong to marginalized communities (Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes). They are often scapegoats for unexplained misfortunes like illness, crop failure, or death. While less common, men, especially relatives of accused women, can also be targeted.
• Scale of the Problem: According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), over 800 people (mostly women) were killed in witchcraft-related murders across India between 2016 and 2022. These numbers are likely underestimates due to significant underreporting. Jharkhand consistently records a high number of such cases.
• Violence and Ostracization: Accused individuals face horrific violence, including physical abuse, torture, sexual assault, public humiliation, disfigurement, and even murder. They are often ostracized from their communities, banished, or hounded, leading to a complete breakdown of their dignity and social life.
• Role of “Ojhas” or “Bhopas”: Local faith healers or witch doctors, known as ‘ojhas’ or ‘bhopas’, often play a pivotal role in identifying and declaring individuals as witches, exacerbating the problem by lending a perverse legitimacy to the accusations.

Social and Economic Causes of Witch-Hunting: The practice of witch-hunting is a complex manifestation of multiple interlocking socio-economic issues:

• Superstition and Illiteracy: A primary driver is a pervasive belief in black magic, sorcery, and supernatural forces, especially in areas with low literacy rates and poor access to modern education. Unexplained illnesses, deaths, or calamities are often attributed to the malevolent actions of “witches.”
• Gender and Patriarchy: Witch-hunting is deeply rooted in patriarchal norms that seek to control and suppress women, especially those who challenge traditional gender roles or are perceived as vulnerable. Accusations are often used to assert male dominance, punish women for perceived transgressions, or suppress their agency.
• Land and Property Disputes: One of the most common underlying motives is the desire to grab land or property, particularly from women who are widows or have no male heirs. Accusing a woman of witchcraft is a convenient way to disinherit her or drive her out of the village.
• Personal Enmities and Jealousy: Long-standing grudges, interpersonal conflicts, or jealousy over an individual’s perceived prosperity or social standing can be disguised as accusations of witchcraft.
• Lack of Quality Healthcare: In remote areas with inadequate access to modern medical facilities, communities often turn to traditional healers or attribute diseases to supernatural causes. When a person falls ill or dies, a “witch” is often blamed.
• Poverty and Economic Hardship: Communities facing severe poverty, crop failures, or livestock losses may look for scapegoats to explain their misfortunes, with the accused “witch” serving as a convenient target for communal frustration.
• Social Marginalization: Individuals from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or other marginalized groups, who already face social exclusion and lack legal awareness, are more vulnerable to such accusations.
• Failure of State Institutions: The continuation of this practice highlights the ineffectiveness of law enforcement agencies (police often lack awareness or training, or are reluctant to intervene), the judiciary (slow justice delivery), and social welfare services in remote areas.
• Absence of Scientific Temper: Article 51A(h) of the Constitution mandates the duty of every citizen to promote scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform. The prevalence of witch-hunting directly contradicts this constitutional value.

Legal Framework and Government Initiatives:

• No Central Law: A significant challenge is the absence of a comprehensive national-level legislation specifically against witch-hunting. The Prevention of Witch-Hunting Bill, 2016, was introduced in Lok Sabha but failed to pass and eventually lapsed.
• Indian Penal Code (IPC): Incidents of witch-hunting are currently dealt with under various sections of the IPC, 1860, which cover crimes like murder (Section 302), attempt to murder (Section 307), voluntarily causing hurt (Section 323), assault (Section 351), criminal intimidation (Section 503), etc. However, the IPC does not specifically define or address witch-hunting as a distinct crime, making it difficult to track and address systematically.
• State-Specific Laws: In the absence of a central law, several states have enacted their own specific laws to combat witch-hunting:
  • Bihar: Prevention of Witch (Daain) Practices Act, 1999 (the first state to do so).
  • Jharkhand: Prevention of Witch Practices Act, 2001.
  • Chhattisgarh: Tonahi Pratadna Nivaran Adhiniyam, 2005.
  • Odisha: Prevention of Witch-Hunting Act, 2013.
  • Rajasthan: Women (Prevention and Protection from Atrocities) Act, 2006.
  • Assam: Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, 2015. This Act is considered one of the more stringent, defining “witch-hunting” broadly and prescribing severe punishments, including life imprisonment for causing death.
  • Maharashtra: Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil, and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Project Garima (Jharkhand): An initiative aimed at restoring the dignity of women branded as witches by offering legal aid, counselling, community support, and rehabilitation.
  • Project Prahari (Assam): A community-policing model focused on building trust between police and tribal communities, crime prevention through early warning, awareness campaigns, and timely legal intervention.
  • Awareness Campaigns: The Ministry of Women and Child Development, along with bodies like the National Commission for Women (NCW), conducts awareness campaigns and workshops to sensitize communities.
  • UN Human Rights Council Resolution (2021): This resolution urges countries to eliminate harmful practices associated with witchcraft accusations, emphasizing protection of vulnerable groups, documentation of attacks, and victim rehabilitation.

Challenges in Addressing the Issue:

• Lack of Uniform Central Law: The absence of a strong, comprehensive central law leads to variations in legal definitions, punishments, and enforcement across states, creating loopholes and inconsistencies.
• Underreporting and Data Gaps: Many cases go unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of trust in the justice system. NCRB’s classification of witch-hunting deaths under general murder makes it difficult to collect specific data and track trends effectively.
• Social Acceptance and Stigma: In many communities, witch-branding is still accepted as a legitimate act, and victims face lifelong exclusion and are often unwilling to report cases.
• Weak Enforcement: Laws are often poorly implemented due to a lack of awareness among law enforcement, political will, and resistance from local communities influenced by superstitious beliefs and powerful local figures (like ojhas).
• Rehabilitation of Victims: There is often inadequate provision for the rehabilitation and reintegration of victims into society, who face severe psychological trauma and social ostracism.

Way Ahead: A multi-faceted and concerted approach is required to eradicate the practice of witchcraft and witch-hunting from India:

• Enact a Comprehensive Central Law: India urgently needs a strong national law against witch-hunting that:
  • Clearly defines the crime and all associated acts (accusation, instigation, physical harm, social ostracization).
  • Prescribes stringent and deterrent punishments for perpetrators.
  • Mandates support, protection, and rehabilitation services for victims.
  • Includes provisions for prevention, awareness, and education initiatives across all states.
• Strengthen Law Enforcement and Judicial System:
  • Sensitize and train police personnel, public prosecutors, and judicial officers to handle witch-hunting cases effectively and empathetically.
  • Ensure swift investigation and prosecution to build public trust and deter offenders.
  • Establish special courts or fast-track mechanisms for such cases.
• Promote Education and Scientific Temper:
  • Invest in quality education, particularly in rural and tribal areas, to foster critical thinking and discourage superstitious beliefs.
  • Launch sustained, large-scale awareness campaigns involving local leaders, community groups, schools, and media to debunk myths about witchcraft and promote scientific explanations for illness and misfortune.
  • Involve Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and local community leaders in these awareness efforts.
• Improve Access to Healthcare: Provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare facilities in remote areas to address health issues scientifically and prevent reliance on traditional “cures” or blaming “witches.”
• Address Socio-Economic Disparities: Implement targeted development programs to alleviate poverty, ensure land rights for women, and empower marginalized communities, reducing the underlying vulnerabilities that lead to witch-hunting.
• Victim Support and Rehabilitation: Establish robust mechanisms for the psychological counseling, legal aid, social support, and economic rehabilitation of victims, helping them reintegrate into society.
• Better Data Collection: Improve the collection and categorization of data on witch-hunting cases by the NCRB to enable better policy formulation and evaluation of interventions.

By combining stringent legal measures with widespread social awareness, improved governance, and a focus on socio-economic development, India can hope to eliminate this barbaric practice and uphold the fundamental rights and dignity of all its citizens.

Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration

Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology (Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology).

Context: The Government of Andhra Pradesh has recently approved the Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration (AQVD), a landmark initiative aimed at transforming Amaravati into India’s first Quantum Valley and a global hub for quantum technologies. This declaration signifies a bold strategic step by the state to position itself at the forefront of the burgeoning quantum revolution, aligning with India’s broader National Quantum Mission.

More About the News:

• Vision and Scope: The AQVD serves as a guiding framework for Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to advance quantum technologies and nurture a vibrant innovation ecosystem. It reflects a multi-stakeholder commitment involving the state government, global tech giants, academia, and startups.
• Key Partners: The initiative is built on six joint commitments with major industry players like IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), along with collaborations with leading academic institutions, including several IITs, Purdue University (USA), and the University of Tokyo (Japan).
• QChipIN – India’s Largest Open Quantum Testbed: A cornerstone of the Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) will be the establishment of QChipIN, touted as India’s largest open quantum testbed, within one year. This “Living Lab Infrastructure” will integrate quantum computers, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) fiber links, and deployable sensor platforms to support pilot projects across various sectors such as health-tech, Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), logistics, defense, and space. QChipIN aims to provide end-to-end access to quantum hardware, algorithms, tools, and expert support within a dedicated tech park.
• IBM Quantum System Two: By January 1, 2026, IBM is expected to install its Quantum System Two at AQV, which is described as India’s most powerful quantum computer and a first-of-its-kind in South Asia. The target is to test 100 quantum algorithms by the same time.
• Hardware Development Goals: By January 1, 2027, the plan includes installing three quantum computers based on different qubit technologies (superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonic qubits, and neutral atoms). Further targets include testing over 1,000 quantum algorithms annually by January 1, 2028, and achieving 1,000 effective qubits of total quantum capacity by January 1, 2029.
• Indigenous Supply Chain: The AQV will anchor the indigenous supply chain for critical quantum components like qubit platforms, cryo-electronics, photonic packages, quantum chips, quantum dots, and readout hardware (e.g., single-photon detectors and control systems). The goal is to achieve ₹5,000 crore in annual exports by 2030 from these indigenous productions.
• Funding and Startup Ecosystem: A dedicated ₹1,000 crore Quantum Fund and access to Living Lab infrastructure will support at least 20 quantum hardware and security startups in the next year, expanding to 100 by 2030. A National Startup Forum will also be created with milestone-based VC funding and mentorship.
• Talent Development: The AQV aims to establish India’s first integrated quantum skilling ecosystem, offering integrated PhD fellowships, engineer upskilling, and technician certifications. It plans to empower at least 20 universities in Andhra Pradesh and 100 across India to run quantum programs. All state universities will introduce quantum computing curricula, with Andhra University already launching degree programs from the 2025-26 academic year.
• Global Collaboration: A Global Quantum Collaboration Council (GQCC) will be established in Amaravati to align international standards, foster joint R&D, and promote trusted supply chains.
• Governance and Accountability: A multi-stakeholder Amaravati Quantum Valley Mission Board will oversee governance, with working groups identifying use cases for quantum computing across sectors and publishing transparent KPIs quarterly.
• World Quantum Expo: Starting in 2026, Amaravati will host an annual World Quantum Expo, aiming to become India’s quantum capital and a global hub for deep tech innovation by 2035.
• Job Creation: The initiative projects the creation of over one lakh (100,000) new jobs in R&D and innovation.

Strategic Importance of Quantum Technologies: Quantum technologies are considered a dual-use technology with wide-ranging implications across various sectors:

• National Security: Enhancing cybersecurity through quantum cryptography (quantum-safe encryption), advanced surveillance, and defense capabilities.
• Healthcare and Research: Accelerating drug discovery, developing new medical diagnostics, and enabling personalized medicine.
• Finance: Optimizing financial modeling, algorithmic trading, and fraud detection.
• Logistics and Optimization: Solving complex optimization problems in supply chain management, transportation, and logistics.
• Materials Science: Designing new materials with unique properties.
• Artificial Intelligence: Powering next-generation AI and machine learning.
• Space Exploration: Improving navigation and communication in space.

Alignment with National Quantum Mission (NQM): The Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration aligns significantly with India’s broader National Quantum Mission (NQM), approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023 with a budget of ₹6,003.65 crore for the period 2023-24 to 2030-31.

• NQM Objectives: The NQM aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 physical qubits by 2031), establish satellite-based quantum-secured communication, develop quantum sensors and metrology, and foster quantum materials and devices.
• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): The NQM operates through four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) established in premier institutions (IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi), each focusing on a specific quantum domain. The Amaravati Quantum Valley can potentially integrate with or complement these national efforts, fostering a distributed yet interconnected quantum ecosystem.
• Indigenous Capabilities: Both the AQVD and NQM emphasize the development of indigenous quantum technologies and intellectual property to reduce reliance on foreign systems and ensure data sovereignty.

Challenges in Quantum Technology Development: Despite the immense potential, quantum technology development faces significant hurdles:

• Error Correction: Qubits are extremely fragile and prone to decoherence, making error correction a major challenge.
• Scalability: Building quantum computers with thousands of reliable and stable qubits is a monumental engineering feat.
• Cost and Complexity: Quantum systems often require cryogenic environments (extremely low temperatures) and advanced shielding, making them expensive and complex to build and maintain.
• Talent Gap: A shortage of highly skilled quantum scientists, engineers, and technicians is a global challenge.
• Algorithm Development: Developing practical quantum algorithms for real-world problems is still in its early stages.

Significance of Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration:

• Pioneering Initiative: Positions Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of quantum technology in India and potentially in Asia.
• Catalyst for Investment: Aims to attract substantial domestic and international investment in a critical futuristic technology.
• Hub for Innovation: Fosters a collaborative ecosystem involving government, industry, and academia, accelerating research, prototyping, and intellectual property creation.
• Skill Development: Addresses the critical talent gap by focusing on integrated skilling programs from technicians to PhDs.
• Strategic Autonomy: By anchoring indigenous supply chain and hardware development, it contributes to India’s technological self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
• Economic Growth and Job Creation: Projected to create numerous high-end jobs and drive economic growth through deep-tech innovation.
• “Quantum Governance”: Aims to integrate quantum technologies to enhance transparency, cyber resilience, and efficiency in public administration.

The Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration represents a significant leap for India in the global quantum race. Its success will depend on effective implementation, sustained funding, strong collaborations, and continuous efforts to overcome the inherent challenges of this complex and transformative technology.

Atomic Energy Regulatory Board Grants Operational Licence to Two Home-built 700 MWe Reactors

Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology (Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Achievements of Indians in science & technology; new technologies and issues relating to intellectual property rights); GS3/Energy (Energy; Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.).

Context: In a significant boost to India’s indigenous nuclear power program, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted a five-year operational license to Units 3 and 4 of the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat. These are India’s first indigenously developed 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), marking a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of energy security and self-reliance in nuclear technology.

More About the News:

• KAPS 3 & 4 Operational: The KAPS-3 reactor had achieved full power operation in August 2023, followed by KAPS-4 in August 2024. The recent operational license from AERB, issued on July 3, 2025, signifies the successful conclusion of rigorous design and commissioning safety reviews by the regulator.
• Indigenous Development: These 700 MWe PHWRs are a testament to India’s capabilities in nuclear technology. They represent an upgrade from the earlier 540 MWe PHWR design, incorporating enhanced safety features and improved efficiency. Almost 100% of the parts for these reactors are manufactured by Indian industry.
• Rigorous Review Process: The licensing process spanned nearly 15 years, involving multi-tiered safety reviews and assessment of the reactor design across its entire lifecycle, from siting and construction to commissioning at full power. Reactor safety experts from Technical Support Organisations also contributed significantly to this review.
• Fleet Mode Construction: This development is a “shot in the arm” for the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), which is spearheading the construction of ten similar 700 MWe PHWRs in a “fleet mode.” This approach aims to achieve economies of scale and faster execution timelines by developing multiple reactors of the same standardized design in parallel.
• Increasing Nuclear Capacity: India’s current nuclear power capacity is approximately 8.8 GW from 25 operational reactors. With this move, and other projects underway, the government aims to increase nuclear power capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, and an ambitious target of 100 GW by 2047, which is deemed essential for reducing carbon emissions and meeting future energy demands.

Brief on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs):

• Definition: A PHWR is a nuclear reactor that uses natural uranium as fuel and heavy water (deuterium oxide, D₂O) as both its coolant and neutron moderator.
• Key Features (Indian PHWRs):
  • Fuel: Uses natural uranium, eliminating the need for expensive uranium enrichment. This is a significant advantage for India, which has limited access to enriched uranium but possesses substantial natural uranium reserves.
  • Moderator and Coolant: Heavy water effectively slows down neutrons, enabling a sustained chain reaction with natural uranium, and also transfers heat from the reactor core.
  • Design: PHWRs typically use pressure tubes (horizontal channels containing fuel bundles and coolant) rather than a large pressure vessel (as in Light Water Reactors). This design is often cited for its inherent safety advantages, as a rupture would be localized and less severe.
  • On-line Refueling: PHWRs can be refuelled without shutting down the reactor, leading to higher capacity factors and increased operational uptime.
  • Safety Enhancements (700 MWe PHWRs): The 700 MWe design incorporates advanced safety features like:
    • Two diverse and fast-acting shutdown systems.
    • Double containment of the reactor building.
    • A passive decay heat removal system (capable of removing residual heat without requiring active power or operator intervention, similar to Generation III+ plants).
    • Steel-lined containment and containment spray systems to enhance safety in case of accidents like a Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA).

India’s Nuclear Power Program: India’s nuclear energy program, conceived by Dr. Homi J. Bhabha, is structured in a three-stage strategy aimed at long-term energy independence:

1. First Stage (PHWRs): Utilizes natural uranium in PHWRs to produce electricity and generate plutonium-239 as a byproduct. India currently operates 15 PHWRs of 220 MWe and two of 540 MWe capacity. The 700 MWe PHWRs are the latest evolution in this stage.
2. Second Stage (Fast Breeder Reactors – FBRs): Uses plutonium-239 (produced in the first stage) as fuel in FBRs. FBRs are crucial because they produce more fissile material than they consume, enabling further expansion of the nuclear program. India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR-500 MWe) at Kalpakkam reached significant milestones in 2024, including the beginning of core loading.
3. Third Stage (Thorium-based Reactors): Aims to utilize India’s vast thorium reserves to produce U-233 in breeder reactors. This stage is envisioned for long-term energy security, as India possesses one of the world’s largest thorium reserves.

Significance of the Development:

• Energy Security: Increased nuclear power generation reduces India’s reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to energy independence and reducing import bills.
• Clean Energy: Nuclear power is a clean, baseload energy source that produces virtually no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, supporting India’s climate change commitments (Net Zero by 2070).
• Technological Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat): The indigenous design, development, and manufacturing of 700 MWe PHWRs demonstrate India’s self-reliance in advanced nuclear technology.
• Economic Growth: The fleet mode construction and the associated supply chain create significant opportunities for Indian industries, boosting manufacturing and generating employment.
• Global Leadership: India’s advancements in indigenous PHWR technology position it as a leader in this specific reactor type globally.
• Safety and Reliability: The rigorous review process and the enhanced safety features of the 700 MWe PHWRs underscore India’s commitment to the highest nuclear safety standards.

Challenges and Way Ahead: Despite these successes, India’s nuclear power program faces challenges:

• Pace of Construction: Nuclear power projects have long gestation periods, and accelerating the pace of construction to meet ambitious targets is crucial.
• Public Perception: Addressing public concerns regarding nuclear safety and waste management remains vital for gaining wider acceptance.
• Fuel Supply: While PHWRs use natural uranium, ensuring a consistent domestic supply and exploring international cooperation for imported fuel are ongoing challenges. Recent discovery of a new uranium deposit near Jaduguda Mines is a positive step.
• Cost and Funding: Nuclear power projects are capital-intensive. Mechanisms like public-private partnerships (e.g., ASHVINI, a joint venture between NPCIL and NTPC) and attracting private sector participation (by amending the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act) are being explored.
• Waste Management: Developing long-term, safe, and sustainable solutions for nuclear waste disposal is a continuous challenge that requires advanced research and robust regulatory frameworks.

The operationalization of the Kakrapar 700 MWe PHWRs is a pivotal moment for India’s nuclear energy sector, reinforcing its commitment to a robust, indigenous, and sustainable nuclear power program as a key component of its future energy mix.

India Reaffirms its Bioeconomy Target of $300 Billion by 2030

Syllabus: GS3/Economy (Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment); GS3/Science & Technology (Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Bio-technology).

Context: India has reiterated its ambitious target of achieving a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030, signaling its strong commitment to leveraging biotechnology for sustainable economic growth, environmental well-being, and social progress. This reaffirmation comes as the sector demonstrates robust growth and increasing contributions to the national GDP.

More About the News:

• Current Status and Growth: India’s bioeconomy has witnessed remarkable growth, expanding sixteen-fold from $10 billion in 2014 to an impressive $165.7 billion in 2024. This sector currently contributes approximately 4.25% to India’s GDP and has shown a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17.9% over the past four years. The Union Minister of Science & Technology recently emphasized the need for wider public understanding and inclusive participation in India’s biotechnology mission.
• Vision for 2030 and Beyond: The target of $300 billion by 2030 is part of India’s broader vision to become a global leader in bio-manufacturing and a knowledge-driven, bio-enabled economy. The long-term goal is to reach a $1 trillion bioeconomy by 2047, aligning with the “India@2047” vision for sustainability, economic self-reliance, and green growth.
• Key Drivers of Growth:
  • Government Support: Strong policy frameworks and initiatives, including the National Biotechnology Development Strategy and the BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment), are propelling the sector.
  • Startup Ecosystem: The number of biotech startups has surged from just 50 a decade ago to nearly 11,000 in 2024, supported by initiatives from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) such as the Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) and Seed Fund.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Increased collaboration between academia, industry, and government entities is accelerating research, development, and commercialization of biotech products.
  • Increased R&D Investment: India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) has more than doubled in the last decade, reflecting a strong governmental push for scientific innovation.

What is Bioeconomy? The bioeconomy refers to the industrial use of renewable biological resources (plants, animals, microorganisms) and the application of natural biological processes (biotechnology, biochemistry) to produce food, feed, bio-based products, energy, and services. It seeks to replace traditional, often fossil-fuel-intensive, production systems with sustainable, bio-based alternatives.

Key Sectors of India’s Bioeconomy: India’s bioeconomy spans several crucial sub-sectors:

1. Bio-Pharma/Bio-Medical (e.g., contributing around 35-40% of the bioeconomy value): This is the largest segment and includes:
   • Development and production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biologics, and biosimilars.
   • Medical devices and diagnostics.
   • India is a global hub for affordable, high-quality medicines and produces 65% of the world’s vaccines.
2. Bio-Industrial (e.g., contributing around 45-50%): This is emerging as the largest segment, driven by:
   • Biofuels (e.g., ethanol from sugarcane and agri-waste; India’s ethanol blending in petrol reached 20% in 2024, six years ahead of schedule, saving significant foreign exchange and reducing carbon emissions).
   • Bio-based chemicals and enzymes.
   • Bioplastics and biodegradable materials.
3. Bio-Agriculture (e.g., contributing around 8-16%):
   • Biotech seeds (e.g., Bt cotton, genetically modified crops).
   • Biofertilizers and biopesticides for sustainable farming.
   • Precision agriculture technologies.
   • Initiatives like the Biotech-KISAN programme are training farmers in modern techniques, leading to increased productivity and incomes.
4. Bio-Services/Bio-IT (e.g., contributing around 8-9%):
   • Contract research and manufacturing services (CRMOs, CDMOs).
   • Clinical trials.
   • Biotech software development and bioinformatics.
   • Diagnostic services.

Significance of a Strong Bioeconomy for India:

• Economic Growth and Job Creation: It creates new industries, businesses, and high-quality job opportunities in sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, bio-manufacturing, and agriculture. Projections indicate the creation of over 35 million jobs by 2030.
• Sustainable Development: Promotes a circular economy by utilizing agricultural waste, biomass, and other biological resources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing pollution, and supporting India’s net-zero carbon emission goals (Net Zero by 2070).
• Energy Security: The growth in biofuels, particularly ethanol blending, significantly reduces crude oil imports, saving foreign exchange and enhancing energy independence.
• Food and Agricultural Security: Biotechnology innovations like drought-resistant and high-yielding crops, biofortified crops, and bio-inputs enhance agricultural productivity, improve food security, and support rural livelihoods.
• Healthcare Access: India’s strength in biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, and diagnostics contributes to affordable and accessible healthcare both domestically and globally (e.g., India’s role as the “pharmacy of the world”).
• Environmental Protection: Supports bioremediation, waste management, and the development of eco-friendly alternatives to conventional chemicals and materials.
• Strategic Global Positioning: A robust bioeconomy strengthens India’s position as a global leader in innovation and sustainable solutions, particularly in bio-manufacturing and bio-pharma.

Government Initiatives and Policy Frameworks:

• National Biotechnology Development Strategy (2021-2025): Focuses on creating a knowledge and innovation-driven bioeconomy, aiming for India to be a global biomanufacturing hub.
• BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment): Launched in 2024, this policy aims to foster green biomanufacturing, promote low-carbon products, and create jobs, aligning with India’s net-zero goals.
• Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC): A public sector enterprise under the Department of Biotechnology, BIRAC provides funding, mentorship, and incubation support to biotech startups and innovators.
• National Biopharma Mission (NBM): A $250 million mission (co-funded by the World Bank) aimed at boosting India’s capabilities in biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, biosimilars, and diagnostics.
• Biotech-KISAN Program: Connects scientists with farmers to apply biotechnological solutions at the grassroots level for agricultural improvement.
• GenomeIndia Project: Aims to sequence the genomes of thousands of Indian individuals to create a comprehensive genomic database, revolutionizing precision medicine.

Challenges and Way Forward: While India’s bioeconomy is on an impressive growth trajectory, challenges remain:

• R&D Investment: Despite recent increases, Gross Expenditure on Research & Development (GERD) as a percentage of GDP is still lower than that of some developed countries. More investment, especially from the private sector, is needed.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Scaling up biotech innovations requires robust infrastructure, including advanced labs, pilot plants, and testing facilities.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Streamlining and harmonizing regulatory processes for new biotech products (e.g., GM crops, new drugs) is essential to accelerate their development and market entry.
• Skill Development: A continuous focus on developing a highly skilled workforce in emerging biotechnology areas (e.g., synthetic biology, gene editing, bioinformatics, biomanufacturing) is crucial.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Strengthening the IP regime and addressing concerns like “bio-piracy” will incentivize innovation.
• Awareness and Public Acceptance: Building public trust and understanding of biotechnology’s benefits, especially in areas like GM crops, is important.

Way Ahead:

• Policy Implementation: Ensure effective and swift implementation of policies like BioE3 across all states, fostering a harmonized national approach.
• Investment & Funding: Create dedicated “Bioeconomy Investment Funds” and promote more public-private partnerships to fuel research, innovation, and scale-up.
• Research & Innovation Ecosystem: Strengthen academia-industry linkages, fast-track IP approvals, and establish more Centers of Excellence and bio-incubation centers in emerging biotech fields.
• Skilling Initiatives: Integrate bioeconomy-relevant curricula into university programs and skill development missions to build a future-ready workforce.
• Global Collaboration: Forge strategic R&D partnerships with leading biotech nations and institutions to leverage global expertise and promote trusted supply chains.
• Grassroots Bio-entrepreneurship: Encourage and support bio-entrepreneurship in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, including women-led ventures, to ensure inclusive growth.

By building on its strong foundation and addressing these challenges, India is well-positioned to achieve its $300 billion bioeconomy target by 2030 and emerge as a significant force in the global biotechnology landscape, contributing to a sustainable, self-reliant, and bio-driven future.

The Seine River

GS 1 Geography

The Seine River, iconic to Paris, has been a significant focal point in recent years, particularly leading up to and following the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. After a century-long ban, parts of the river have now reopened for public swimming, marking a historic achievement driven by a massive cleanup effort.

Here’s a detailed overview:

Recent Developments (July 2025):

• Public Swimming Reopened: As of July 5, 2025, the Seine River officially reopened for public swimming in designated areas for the first time since 1923. This monumental step is a direct legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
• Three Designated Swimming Zones: Paris authorities have created three outdoor swimming zones, complete with changing rooms, showers, and lifeguard supervision. These zones are located opposite L’île aux Cygnes (Swan Island) near the Eiffel Tower, close to Notre-Dame Cathedral, and opposite the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. Access to these areas is free until August 31st.
• Continuous Water Quality Monitoring: Authorities are continuously monitoring water quality, and a flag system (green for good, red for unsafe) will inform bathers daily about pollution levels.
• Record High Temperatures: The reopening coincides with scorching temperatures across Europe, including France’s second-warmest June since records began, making the river a welcome respite for Parisians.

Impact of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games:

The primary catalyst for the Seine’s dramatic cleanup was the commitment to host open-water swimming and triathlon events in the river during the 2024 Paris Olympics. This spurred a €1.4 billion ($1.5 billion) cleanup project.

• Cleanup Efforts:
  • Underground Storage Tank: A massive underground rainwater barrel (cistern) was created to hold wastewater and prevent untreated sewage from entering the river during heavy rain. This basin can hold the equivalent of 20 Olympic swimming pools (about 13 million gallons) of excess water, which can then be funneled to treatment plants.
  • Wastewater Treatment Upgrades: Wastewater treatment plants were upgraded with advanced technologies to reduce pollutant discharges.
  • Sewer Connections: Houseboats that previously emptied sewage directly into the river were required to hook up to municipal sewer systems. Some homes upstream from Paris also saw their wastewater connected to treatment plants instead of flowing directly into the river’s rainwater system.
• Olympic Events: The Seine served as the primary arena for the ambitious Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, featuring a parade of athletes on boats. The river also hosted the triathlon swimming legs and open-water swimming events.
• Challenges During the Olympics: Despite the extensive cleanup, there were still challenges. Heavy rainfall caused bacterial surges (specifically E. coli and enterococci) that led to the cancellation of some training sessions and the postponement of a few Olympic events. This highlighted the ongoing vulnerability of the river’s water quality to weather conditions. Some athletes also reported falling ill after competing, although a direct link to river water was not always definitively established.
• Legacy for Residents: The large-scale investment and effort, while initially for the Olympics, were always intended to leave a lasting legacy for the residents of Paris, allowing them to swim in the river for the first time in over a century.

Geography and Characteristics:

• Length and Course: The Seine River is one of Europe’s major historic rivers, extending approximately 780 km (485 miles). It rises at Mont Tasselot in the Côte d’Or region of Burgundy and flows northwest through Paris, joining several tributaries including the Aube, Yonne, Marne, and Oise, before emptying into the English Channel at Le Havre.
• Parisian Icon: In Paris, the Seine is central to the city’s identity, flowing past many famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
• Navigability: The river has a relatively sluggish flow and low elevation gradient, making it easily navigable, especially below Paris, serving as a vital commercial navigation route connecting to Le Havre and Rouen. It also connects to other European waterways like the Rhine.
• Tidal Bore: While less pronounced due to dredging, the estuary of the Seine can experience a tidal bore (mascaret).

Historical Pollution and Environmental Challenges:

• Century-Long Ban: Swimming in the Seine was officially banned in 1923 primarily due to severe pollution from sewage overflows, industrial discharge, and urban runoff. Historically, the river was a repository for all kinds of waste, from animal carcasses to human waste.
• Bacterial Contamination: The river has historically been contaminated with high levels of bacteria like E. coli and enterococci, posing significant health risks.
• Post-Olympic Challenges: While water quality has significantly improved, the river’s natural environment means it is still susceptible to variations, particularly during heavy rainfall when sewage networks can be overwhelmed, leading to discharge of untreated water. Skepticism about the water quality remains among some Parisians due to its murky color and occasional floating litter.

Environmental Initiatives Beyond Cleanup:

Beyond the immediate cleanup for the Olympics, there are broader efforts to restore the Seine’s ecological health:

• Habitat Restoration: Re-establishing natural riverbank conditions by replanting native vegetation, creating fish ladders, and restoring wetlands to filter pollutants.
• Species Reintroduction: Efforts to reintroduce native fish species (like salmon and eel) and protect habitats for diverse wildlife. The number of fish species has recovered from a low of three to a more comfortable 32.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about water conservation and pollution prevention.
• Community Engagement: Organizing volunteer cleanup events and promoting community gardens along the river.
• Advanced Monitoring: Utilizing innovative technologies for real-time water quality monitoring to promptly identify pollution events and facilitate timely interventions.

The reopening of the Seine for swimming is a testament to what large-scale environmental efforts can achieve. It’s a symbolic victory for Paris and a significant step towards reclaiming urban rivers for public use, though ongoing vigilance and investment will be crucial to maintain and further improve its water quality.

Sheesh Maha

GS 1 – Culture – History

The term literally meaning “Glass Palace” or “Palace of Mirrors,” refers to a specific architectural style predominantly found in royal palaces and forts across India and Pakistan. These structures are renowned for their intricate mirror work, where thousands of tiny mirrors and glass pieces are inlaid into the walls and ceilings, creating a dazzling and mesmerizing effect when light reflects off them.

While there isn’t just one “Sheesh Mahal,” several prominent examples exist, each with its own history and architectural nuances. The most famous ones are located in:

1. Amer Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan:
   • History: This is perhaps the most famous Sheesh Mahal in India. It was built within the Amer Fort (also known as Amber Fort) in the 17th century, under the patronage of Maharaja Man Singh I, and later completed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh I around 1727.
   • Architecture & Significance: It’s a magnificent example of the fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The walls and ceiling are adorned with intricate mirror mosaics. Legend has it that the queen desired to sleep under the stars but was not allowed to sleep outdoors for security reasons. To fulfill her wish, the king ordered the construction of this palace, where a single candle lit at night would create the illusion of thousands of stars twinkling on the mirrored surfaces. The use of imported Belgian glass and precious stones added to its opulence.
   • Modern Context: While direct access inside the Sheesh Mahal in Amer Fort is sometimes restricted for preservation, visitors can still admire its beauty from outside, and with a flashlight, the “starry night” effect can still be observed.
2. Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh:
   • History: Located within the Agra Fort complex, this Sheesh Mahal was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-1640 AD. It served as the imperial bath (hammam) of the emperor.
   • Architecture & Significance: It features two dazzling chambers with walls and ceilings entirely covered in intricate mirror mosaics. The mirrors, reportedly brought from Haleb (Aleppo, Syria), were designed to reflect light in a way that would fill the entire palace, creating a magical ambiance. Its thick walls were also designed to keep the interiors cool during summer.
   • Modern Context: This Sheesh Mahal is often locked and not fully accessible to the public for preservation purposes, but its beauty can still be glimpsed from behind a net door.
3. Lahore Fort, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan:
   • History: Built under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631-32 within the Shah Burj block of Lahore Fort. Later additions were made under Sikh Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
   • Architecture & Significance: Considered the “jewel in the Fort’s crown,” it is adorned with thousands of small mirrors (ayina kari), stucco tracery (munabat kari), and carved marble screens. It was primarily used for private council meetings and was accessible only to the imperial princes, the vizier, and selected courtiers.
   • Cultural Reference: This Sheesh Mahal is particularly famous for its replica created in Mumbai for the iconic Bollywood song “Jab Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya” from the film “Mughal-e-Azam” (1960), which significantly popularized the concept of a “Glass Palace” in Indian cinema.
4. Patiala, Punjab:
   • History: Located in Patiala, this Sheesh Mahal was constructed between 1845 and 1862 by Maharaja Narinder Singh. It was envisioned as a luxurious retreat set in a forest area with an artificial lake and gardens, rather than a formal residence.
   • Architecture & Significance: It showcases a blend of Mughal and European architectural styles. Its true highlight is the extensive mirror work in two well-preserved chambers, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope effect. The palace also houses a museum with a vast collection of medals, artifacts, and art, including miniature paintings depicting themes from Indian mythology and literature.
5. Shalimar Bagh, Delhi:
   • History: Recently restored and unveiled in July 2025, this 17th-century Sheesh Mahal was built by Izz-un-Nisha Begum, wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in 1653. It was part of the magnificent Shalimar Bagh, intended as a royal retreat from the bustle of Shahjahanabad.
   • Architecture & Significance: It’s a fine example of Mughal garden architecture, featuring red sandstone and traditional Char Bagh (four-part garden) design. Historically, it was the site of Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658 and served as a British forces encampment during the 1857 uprising. Its recent restoration used traditional materials and techniques, bringing back its original glory.

General Characteristics and Significance of Sheesh Mahals:

• Opulence and Grandeur: Sheesh Mahals were typically commissioned by emperors and maharajas to showcase their immense wealth, power, and artistic sensibilities.
• Architectural Marvel: They represent a pinnacle of craftsmanship and architectural ingenuity, particularly in the meticulous placement of mirrors to create stunning visual effects.
• Play of Light: The primary purpose of the mirror work was to create an ethereal and luminous ambiance, often designed to maximize the effect of candlelight or moonlight, transforming the space into a sparkling, star-like environment.
• Symbolism: Beyond aesthetics, mirrors were sometimes believed to have spiritual properties, reflecting light and even the soul, creating a sacred and majestic space that symbolized the divine right and power of the rulers.
• Cultural Heritage: These structures are invaluable parts of India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, attracting tourists and scholars alike and serving as a testament to the artistic brilliance of past eras.

Each Sheesh Mahal, while sharing the common “mirror palace” concept, offers a unique glimpse into the regional architectural styles, historical contexts, and personal tastes of the rulers who commissioned them.