1. ISRO’s Shukrayaan-1: India’s New Planetary Ambition
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Achievements of Indians in science & technology; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Context In a significant update, ISRO has announced the successful completion of a crucial pre-flight test for its much-anticipated Venus Orbiter Mission, ‘Shukrayaan-1’. This milestone brings India’s first mission to Venus one step closer to its planned 2028 launch, signaling a new chapter in India’s planetary exploration program after the successes of Chandrayaan and the Mars Orbiter Mission.
- Scientific and Strategic Implications:
- The mission will study Venus’s atmosphere, its surface composition, and its interaction with the solar wind. A better understanding of Venus, our “sister planet,” could provide crucial insights into the evolution of Earth and other planetary systems.
- ‘Shukrayaan-1’ will also carry instruments to investigate the “super-rotation” of Venus’s atmosphere, a phenomenon where the atmosphere rotates much faster than the planet itself. This is a topic of intense scientific interest globally.
- This mission further strengthens India’s reputation as a low-cost, high-reliability space power. It will also foster international collaborations, as several global payloads are being considered for inclusion in the mission.
- Challenges and Future Outlook:
- A primary challenge is the extreme environment of Venus, which poses a significant hurdle for spacecraft design and operations. The mission will need to withstand very high temperatures and pressures.
- The mission’s success will be a major step toward India’s vision of a self-reliant space sector. By developing its own technologies and instruments, ISRO is paving the way for future deep space missions.
- Sustained funding and political support are crucial for the mission’s long-term success. The mission is part of a larger plan by ISRO, which also includes missions to the Moon, Mars, and the Sun.
Facts
- Shukrayaan-1, India’s first mission to Venus, is an orbiter with a planned launch in 2028.
- The mission will carry a number of indigenous instruments to study Venus’s atmosphere and surface.
- India has previously successfully completed the Mars Orbiter Mission and several Chandrayaan missions.
Way Forward
- Continued Investment: The government must provide consistent financial support to ISRO to ensure the successful completion of the mission and to support future planetary explorations.
- Global Collaboration: India should continue to foster partnerships with international space agencies and research institutions to leverage shared expertise and resources.
- Skill Development: Investing in a new generation of scientists and engineers with expertise in planetary science and deep space missions is crucial for a robust space program.
Conclusion The ‘Shukrayaan-1’ mission is a testament to India’s growing prowess in space technology and planetary exploration. It is a critical step towards understanding the complexities of our solar system and securing India’s place as a global leader in space science.
Sample Mains Question “ISRO’s Shukrayaan-1 mission marks a new chapter in India’s planetary exploration. Discuss the scientific and strategic significance of this mission and analyze the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
2. The New National Policy on Disaster Management 2025
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Disaster and disaster management.
Context The Ministry of Home Affairs has released the new National Policy on Disaster Management 2025, which shifts the focus from a reactive, relief-centric approach to a proactive, prevention, and mitigation-centric one. The policy is aimed at building a more disaster-resilient India by integrating disaster risk reduction into all aspects of national development.
- Key Features and Principles:
- The policy is aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It emphasizes a multi-hazard approach, covering not just natural disasters but also man-made disasters like industrial accidents and cyberattacks.
- It proposes a new framework for urban disaster management, including the creation of separate Urban Disaster Management Authorities for major cities. This is a significant step toward making India’s cities more resilient to disasters.
- The policy also has a strong focus on climate resilience, by promoting the use of climate-resilient technologies and by adapting urban areas to the impacts of climate change.
- It also calls for a comprehensive disaster risk assessment at the national, state, and local levels to identify vulnerabilities and to formulate targeted mitigation strategies.
- Implementation Challenges and Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a sufficient number of skilled professionals in the field of disaster management. The policy’s success will depend on a massive push for skill development and capacity building.
- The implementation of the policy will require a massive investment in disaster-resilient infrastructure, which will require a significant financial commitment from the government and the private sector.
- The policy must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies working together to achieve the common goals.
- Community participation and awareness are crucial for the policy’s success. It is essential to engage local communities and to empower them to take a leading role in disaster preparedness and response.
Facts
- The new National Policy on Disaster Management 2025 was released.
- It shifts the focus from a reactive to a proactive approach to disaster management.
- The policy is aligned with the Sendai Framework and the SDGs.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must allocate a significant portion of its budget to disaster management and to support the development of a disaster-resilient India.
- Capacity Building: A nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for the disaster management sector should be launched.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to disaster management and to build a disaster-resilient India.
Conclusion The new National Policy on Disaster Management is a much-needed roadmap for India’s disaster management future. By focusing on a holistic approach that combines prevention, mitigation, and response, the policy has the potential to save lives and to reduce the economic and social impact of disasters.
Sample Mains Question “The new National Policy on Disaster Management 2025 is a significant step toward building a more disaster-resilient India. In this context, analyze the key features of the policy and discuss the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
3. Digital Public Infrastructure: Fueling the Green Economy
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
Context A new report by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and KPMG highlights the pivotal role of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in fostering a green and circular economy. The report details how platforms like Aadhaar, UPI, and the Account Aggregator framework can be leveraged to track emissions, incentivize sustainable behavior, and streamline the e-waste management ecosystem.
- Economic and Environmental Dimensions:
- The report argues that the same DPI that has revolutionized financial services can be used to create a “Green DPI”. This would involve integrating digital platforms with environmental data to create a national-level system for monitoring and reporting on emissions and resource consumption.
- The report also highlights how DPI can be used to formalize the e-waste management sector. By creating a digital platform for e-waste collection and recycling, the government can track the flow of e-waste, ensure that it is recycled in an environmentally sound manner, and provide incentives for producers and consumers to participate in the recycling process.
- DPI can also be used to create a market for carbon credits and other environmental services. By creating a transparent and efficient platform for trading carbon credits, the government can encourage businesses to reduce their emissions and to invest in green technologies.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for a “Green DPI.” The government needs to create a new legal framework that addresses issues like data privacy, security, and liability.
- The implementation of the report’s recommendations will also require a massive investment in digital infrastructure and in the development of new technologies.
- The success of a “Green DPI” will depend on the government’s ability to build a collaborative ecosystem of government agencies, private companies, and civil society organizations.
Facts
- A report by CII and KPMG highlights the role of Digital Public Infrastructure in fostering a green economy.
- It proposes leveraging platforms like Aadhaar, UPI, and Account Aggregator for environmental governance.
- The report suggests a “Green DPI” for tracking emissions and formalizing e-waste management.
Way Forward
- Policy and Legal Reforms: The government must create a new legal framework that addresses the issues of data privacy, security, and liability.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to green infrastructure and to create a market for environmental services.
- Citizen Engagement: The government must launch a public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the benefits of a “Green DPI” and to encourage them to participate in the initiative.
Conclusion India’s DPI is a game-changer that has the potential to transform not just the financial sector but also the environmental sector. By leveraging its DPI to foster a green and circular economy, India can become a global leader in sustainable development.
Sample Mains Question “India’s Digital Public Infrastructure has been a key driver of economic growth. Discuss how DPI can be leveraged to address environmental challenges and to foster a green and circular economy.” (250 words, 15 marks)
4. India and Australia: A New Level of 2+2 Dialogue
Syllabus GS Paper 2: International Relations; Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Context In a significant diplomatic move, India and Australia have concluded their annual 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in a hybrid format. The talks covered a wide range of issues, from defense and security cooperation to trade and investment. The dialogue is a testament to the growing strategic importance of the India-Australia relationship in a changing geopolitical landscape.
- Strategic and Economic Dimensions:
- The dialogue is a key component of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Australia. It is aimed at strengthening the defense and security cooperation between the two countries, which is critical for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The talks also focused on a new framework for defense technology cooperation. Both countries are looking to collaborate on the development of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and unmanned systems.
- The two countries also discussed new areas of cooperation, including cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. This is aimed at strengthening their partnership and at creating a more resilient and secure Indo-Pacific.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a clear and consistent policy framework to deal with trade disputes. A lack of clarity on regulations and a high-risk perception among investors could deter private investment.
- The partnership also needs to address the issue of the security of Indian nationals in Australia. A lack of a clear and transparent policy could lead to a diplomatic crisis.
- The implementation of the agreement will require a collaborative effort between the government, the private sector, and civil society organizations.
Facts
- India and Australia have concluded their annual 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
- The dialogue is a key component of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
- The talks covered a wide range of issues, from defense and security cooperation to trade and investment.
Way Forward
- Diplomatic Engagement: India should continue to engage in diplomatic dialogue with Australia to strengthen the partnership.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects in both countries.
- Cultural Exchange: Promote cultural exchange programs to build a stronger people-to-people connection.
Conclusion The 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue is a significant step toward strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Australia. By leveraging their shared interests and by working together to address common challenges, the two countries can play a critical role in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
Sample Mains Question “India and Australia have concluded their annual 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. In this context, discuss the strategic and economic significance of the dialogue and analyze the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
5. Green Highways: India’s New Infrastructure Push
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Context In a major new initiative, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a new “Green Highways” policy aimed at promoting the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in the construction of roads. The policy is a response to the growing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation and is a key component of the government’s vision of a sustainable future.
- Economic and Environmental Dimensions:
- The policy’s central objective is to reduce the carbon footprint of India’s road transport sector. It seeks to achieve this by using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in the construction of roads, such as recycled plastic, fly ash, and waste from construction and demolition.
- The policy also has a strong focus on climate resilience by promoting the use of climate-resilient technologies and by adapting urban areas to the impacts of climate change. It proposes the use of “Green Walls” and other vegetation to absorb carbon emissions and to reduce the urban heat island effect.
- It also calls for a new framework for urban transport governance, which includes a decentralized and participatory approach to urban transport planning and a clear division of roles and responsibilities between the central government, states, and urban local bodies.
- Implementation Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a sufficient number of skilled professionals in the field of green infrastructure. The policy’s success will depend on a massive push for skill development and capacity building in the urban transport sector.
- The implementation of the policy will require a massive investment in green infrastructure, which will require a significant financial commitment from the government and the private sector.
- The policy also needs to address the issue of land acquisition for urban projects. A lack of a clear and transparent land acquisition policy could impede its progress.
- The policy must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies working together to achieve the common goals.
Facts
- A new “Green Highways” policy was launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
- The policy promotes the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in the construction of roads.
- It also focuses on climate resilience by promoting the use of “Green Walls” and other vegetation.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must allocate a significant portion of its budget to green infrastructure and development.
- Skill Development: Launch a nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for the green infrastructure sector.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to green infrastructure.
Conclusion The new “Green Highways” policy is a much-needed roadmap for India’s road transport future. By focusing on a holistic approach that combines infrastructure, governance, and sustainability, the policy has the potential to transform India’s roads into more environmentally friendly and sustainable places.
Sample Mains Question “The new ‘Green Highways’ policy is a significant step toward a sustainable future. In this context, analyze the key features of the policy and discuss the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
6. India’s First Indigenous Fusion Energy Breakthrough
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Context In a landmark achievement for India’s scientific community, a research team from the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) has announced a major breakthrough in fusion energy. Researchers have successfully created a stable, high-temperature plasma for a sustained period, a crucial step toward developing a functional fusion reactor. This achievement positions India as a key player in the global race for clean energy.
- Technological and Strategic Implications:
- Fusion energy, the same process that powers the sun, holds the potential for limitless, clean energy. A successful fusion reactor would revolutionize the world’s energy system and provide a long-term solution to the challenges of climate change and energy security.
- The breakthrough is a testament to India’s indigenous research capabilities and its long-term vision of a self-reliant India in the realm of deep tech.
- The development of a stable plasma system is a prerequisite for a fusion reactor. Such a device would provide a clean and safe alternative to fossil fuels and nuclear fission, which are currently the primary sources of energy.
- Challenges and Future Roadmap:
- While this is a significant milestone, a fully functional fusion reactor is still decades away. The next big challenge is scaling up the size of the reactor while maintaining the stability and coherence of the plasma, which is a major engineering and scientific hurdle.
- The success of India’s fusion program will depend on a sustained financial commitment from the government and a strong public-private partnership. The private sector, particularly startups, must be encouraged to innovate and develop commercial applications of fusion technology.
- A major challenge is also the lack of a sufficient number of skilled professionals in the field of fusion science and engineering. A massive push for skill development and training is needed to meet the industry’s demand.
Facts
- A research team from the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) has announced a major breakthrough in fusion energy.
- Researchers have successfully created a stable, high-temperature plasma for a sustained period.
- Fusion energy is the same process that powers the sun and holds the potential for limitless, clean energy.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must ensure a continuous flow of funds to the fusion energy program to support long-term research and development.
- Public-Private Partnership: Encourage private companies and startups to invest in and innovate in fusion technology.
- Skill Development: Launch a nationwide program to train scientists and engineers in the specialized skills needed for the fusion sector.
Conclusion The breakthrough in fusion energy is a landmark achievement that places India in an elite group of nations at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. By building on this success, India can secure a key position in the next generation of energy and technology.
Sample Mains Question “The recent breakthrough in fusion energy by Indian scientists is a significant step toward a sustainable energy future. In this context, discuss the strategic implications of this development and analyze the challenges India faces in becoming a global leader in fusion technology.” (250 words, 15 marks)
7. National Rail Plan 2030: Progress Report and Challenges
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Context The Ministry of Railways has released a progress report on the National Rail Plan 2030, which details the progress made in modernizing India’s railway network. The report highlights the significant strides made in increasing the network’s capacity, improving safety, and transitioning to a more sustainable railway system.
- Key Achievements and Objectives:
- The report highlights the progress made in electrifying the railway network. A significant portion of India’s broad-gauge railway tracks have been electrified, a key step toward reducing the railways’ dependence on fossil fuels and its carbon footprint.
- It also details the progress made in increasing the railway network’s capacity by adding new tracks, deploying advanced signaling systems, and developing dedicated freight corridors.
- The report also highlights the progress made in improving the safety of the railway network by deploying advanced signaling systems like Kavach and by eliminating unmanned level crossings.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a sufficient number of skilled professionals in the railway sector. The plan’s success will depend on a massive push for skill development and capacity building.
- The implementation of the plan will require a massive investment in railway infrastructure, which will require a significant financial commitment from the government and the private sector.
- The plan also needs to address the issue of land acquisition for railway projects. A lack of a clear and transparent land acquisition policy could impede its progress.
- The plan must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies working together to achieve the common goals.
Facts
- A progress report on the National Rail Plan 2030 was released.
- The plan aims to modernize India’s railway network by increasing its capacity, improving safety, and transitioning to a more sustainable system.
- It highlights the progress made in electrifying the railway network and in deploying advanced signaling systems.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must allocate a significant portion of its budget to railway infrastructure and development.
- Skill Development: Launch a nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for the railway sector.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale railway projects.
Conclusion The National Rail Plan 2030 is a much-needed roadmap for India’s railway future. By focusing on a holistic approach that combines infrastructure, governance, and sustainability, the plan has the potential to transform India’s railway network into a more efficient, safe, and sustainable system.
Sample Mains Question “The National Rail Plan 2030 is a significant initiative to modernize India’s railway network. Discuss the key features of the plan and analyze the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
8. Strengthening India-Bangladesh Connectivity: A New Chapter
Syllabus GS Paper 2: International Relations; India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Context India and Bangladesh have inaugurated a new cross-border railway line, a significant step toward strengthening connectivity and economic cooperation between the two countries. The new railway line will not only boost trade and investment but also improve people-to-people contact and foster a closer relationship between the two neighbors.
- Strategic and Economic Dimensions:
- The new railway line is a key component of India’s “Act East” policy and its vision of a more integrated and prosperous South Asia. It will help in reducing the travel time and cost of goods between the two countries, which is critical for boosting trade and investment.
- The railway line will also help in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. It will facilitate the movement of goods and people between the two countries, which is crucial for fostering a closer relationship and for promoting regional stability.
- The new railway line is also a key component of India’s vision of a more integrated and prosperous North East India. It will help in improving the connectivity of the North East with the rest of India and with the rest of the world.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a clear and consistent policy framework to deal with border disputes. A lack of clarity on regulations and a high-risk perception among investors could deter private investment.
- The implementation of the project will also require a collaborative effort between the government, the private sector, and civil society organizations.
- The railway line must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies working together to achieve the common goals.
Facts
- India and Bangladesh have inaugurated a new cross-border railway line.
- The railway line is a key component of India’s “Act East” policy and its vision of a more integrated and prosperous South Asia.
- The project will boost trade and investment and improve people-to-people contact between the two countries.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must allocate a significant portion of its budget to railway infrastructure and development.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects in both countries.
- Cultural Exchange: Promote cultural exchange programs to build a stronger people-to-people connection.
Conclusion The new railway line is a significant step toward strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Bangladesh. By leveraging their shared interests and by working together to address common challenges, the two countries can play a critical role in shaping the future of South Asia.
Sample Mains Question “The new cross-border railway line between India and Bangladesh is a significant development. In this context, discuss the strategic and economic significance of the project and analyze the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
9. Conservation of the Great Indian Bustard: A New Initiative
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Environment; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Context The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched a new initiative for the conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. The new initiative, which is a key component of the government’s vision of a sustainable future, is aimed at protecting the habitat of the bird and at increasing its population.
- Ecological and Strategic Dimensions:
- The Great Indian Bustard is a critically endangered bird that is found only in a few parts of India and Pakistan. The bird is a key indicator of the health of the grassland ecosystem.
- The new initiative focuses on protecting the habitat of the bird by creating new protected areas, by controlling the spread of invasive species, and by restoring the degraded habitat.
- The initiative also has a strong focus on community participation. It is aimed at engaging local communities and at empowering them to take a leading role in the conservation of the bird.
- The initiative also calls for a new framework for research and monitoring of the Great Indian Bustard. It is aimed at improving our understanding of the bird’s biology, ecology, and behavior.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a clear and consistent legal and regulatory framework for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard. A lack of clarity on regulations and a high-risk perception among investors could deter private investment.
- The implementation of the initiative will also require a massive investment in conservation infrastructure and in the development of new technologies.
- The initiative must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies working together to achieve the common goals.
Facts
- A new initiative for the conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard was launched.
- The bird is a key indicator of the health of the grassland ecosystem.
- The initiative focuses on protecting the habitat of the bird and on increasing its population.
Way Forward
- Sustained Funding: The government must allocate a significant portion of its budget to the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to the conservation of the bird.
- Community Participation: The government must launch a public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the importance of the Great Indian Bustard and to encourage them to participate in the initiative.
Conclusion The new initiative for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard is a significant step toward protecting India’s biodiversity. By focusing on a holistic approach that combines conservation, research, and community participation, the initiative has the potential to save the bird from extinction.
Sample Mains Question “The Great Indian Bustard is a critically endangered bird that is a key indicator of the health of the grassland ecosystem. In this context, discuss the strategic and ecological significance of the new conservation initiative and analyze the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
10. Supreme Court Ruling on Urban Governance and Central Schemes
Syllabus GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity; Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Context The Supreme Court has delivered a landmark ruling on the jurisdiction of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) concerning the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes. The judgment, which addresses a long-standing dispute between the Centre and states, clarifies the constitutional and legal framework for urban governance and is a significant step toward empowering ULBs.
- Constitutional and Legal Dimensions:
- The ruling clarifies the constitutional and legal framework for urban governance. It holds that while the Centre can fund and design schemes, the implementation and management of such schemes within an urban area fall under the jurisdiction of the ULBs, as per the 74th Constitutional Amendment.
- The judgment also emphasizes the principle of fiscal federalism by holding that the Centre must consult with the states and ULBs before launching any centrally sponsored scheme.
- The ruling is a significant step toward empowering ULBs and making them more accountable to the citizens. It will also help in reducing the bureaucratic delays and corruption that are often associated with the implementation of central schemes.
- Implications and the Way Forward:
- The ruling will have a significant impact on urban governance and on the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes. It will empower ULBs to take a more active role in the development of their cities and to make decisions that are more in line with the needs of their citizens.
- The ruling will also help in strengthening the relationship between the Centre, states, and ULBs. It will foster a more collaborative and cooperative approach to urban governance.
- A major challenge is the lack of a sufficient number of skilled professionals in the ULBs. The ruling’s success will depend on a massive push for skill development and capacity building in the urban governance sector.
Facts
- The Supreme Court has delivered a landmark ruling on the jurisdiction of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
- The ruling clarifies the constitutional and legal framework for urban governance and for the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes.
- The judgment emphasizes the principle of fiscal federalism.
Way Forward
- Capacity Building: The government must launch a nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for urban governance.
- Fiscal Federalism: The government should create a new legal framework that addresses the issues of fiscal federalism and that provides a clear and transparent framework for the distribution of funds between the Centre, states, and ULBs.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects in urban areas.
Conclusion The Supreme Court’s ruling on urban governance is a landmark judgment that has the potential to transform India’s urban future. By empowering ULBs and by strengthening the relationship between the Centre, states, and ULBs, the ruling can help in creating more prosperous and sustainable cities.
Sample Mains Question “The Supreme Court’s ruling on the jurisdiction of Urban Local Bodies is a landmark judgment. In this context, discuss the implications of the ruling for urban governance and for the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes.” (250 words, 15 marks)
11. The Role of Indian Startups in the Drone Sector
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Context In a new report, the Ministry of Civil Aviation highlights the growing role of Indian startups in the drone sector. The report details the significant progress made in developing indigenous drone technologies and in creating a new ecosystem for drone manufacturing and services. The report also highlights the potential of the drone sector to create new jobs and to drive economic growth.
- Technological and Economic Dimensions:
- The report highlights the significant progress made in developing indigenous drone technologies. Indian startups are at the forefront of this revolution, with several companies developing new technologies for drone manufacturing, navigation, and services.
- The drone sector has the potential to revolutionize several sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and disaster management. Drones can be used to monitor crops, deliver goods, and to provide aerial support during disasters.
- The government has also launched several initiatives to promote the growth of the drone sector, including the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and a new framework for drone regulations. This is aimed at creating a new ecosystem for drone manufacturing and services and at making India a global hub for drone technology.
- Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a clear and consistent legal and regulatory framework for the drone sector. A lack of clarity on regulations and a high-risk perception among investors could deter private investment.
- The implementation of the government’s policy will also require a massive investment in digital infrastructure and in the development of new technologies.
- The success of the drone sector will depend on the government’s ability to build a collaborative ecosystem of government agencies, private companies, and civil society organizations.
Facts
- A new report highlights the growing role of Indian startups in the drone sector.
- The report details the significant progress made in developing indigenous drone technologies.
- The drone sector has the potential to revolutionize several sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and disaster management.
Way Forward
- Regulatory Clarity: The government must create a clear and consistent regulatory framework for the drone sector to attract private investment.
- Skill Development: Launch a nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for the drone sector.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to the drone sector.
Conclusion The drone sector is a game-changer that has the potential to transform not just the economy but also the social sector. By leveraging its startups and by creating a conducive environment for innovation and investment, India can become a global leader in the drone sector.
Sample Mains Question “The drone sector has the potential to revolutionize several sectors. In this context, discuss the role of Indian startups in the drone sector and analyze the key challenges that need to be addressed to make India a global hub for drone technology.” (250 words, 15 marks)
12. The National Policy on Urban E-Waste Management
Syllabus GS Paper 3: Environment; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Context The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released a new National Policy on Urban E-Waste Management, which focuses on creating a more sustainable and efficient e-waste management system. The policy is a response to the growing challenges of e-waste and is a key component of the government’s vision of a circular economy.
- Ecological and Strategic Dimensions:
- The policy’s central objective is to formalize the e-waste management sector by creating a digital platform for e-waste collection and recycling. It seeks to achieve this by providing incentives for producers and consumers to participate in the recycling process.
- The policy also has a strong focus on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which holds producers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products.
- The policy also calls for a new framework for research and development in the e-waste sector. It is aimed at improving our understanding of the e-waste stream and at developing new technologies for recycling e-waste.
- Implementation Challenges and the Way Forward:
- A major challenge is the lack of a clear and consistent legal and regulatory framework for the e-waste sector. A lack of clarity on regulations and a high-risk perception among investors could deter private investment.
- The implementation of the policy will also require a massive investment in e-waste infrastructure and in the development of new technologies.
- The policy must also be implemented in a coordinated manner, with all government agencies and stakeholders working together to achieve the common goals.
Facts
- A new National Policy on Urban E-Waste Management was released.
- The policy focuses on creating a more sustainable and efficient e-waste management system.
- It emphasizes Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
Way Forward
- Regulatory Clarity: The government must create a clear and consistent regulatory framework for the e-waste sector to attract private investment.
- Skill Development: Launch a nationwide program to train professionals in the skills needed for the e-waste sector.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to undertake large-scale projects related to e-waste management.
Conclusion The new National Policy on Urban E-Waste Management is a significant step toward a circular economy. By focusing on a holistic approach that combines regulation, technology, and community participation, the policy has the potential to transform India’s e-waste sector.
Sample Mains Question “The new National Policy on Urban E-Waste Management is a much-needed roadmap for a circular economy. In this context, analyze the key features of the policy and discuss the challenges in its effective implementation.” (250 words, 15 marks)
