Topic 1: Historic Conclusion of India-EU FTA Negotiations
Syllabus
- GS Paper 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
- GS Paper 3: Indian Economy – Mobilization of resources, Growth, Development, and Employment.
Context
On January 27, 2026, during the 16th India-EU Summit, both sides announced the “conclusion in principle” of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after nearly 18 years of off-and-on negotiations.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Economic Scale: The EU is India’s second-largest trading partner. This deal opens a market of 27 nations with a combined GDP of over $17 trillion.
- Geopolitical Strategy: This FTA acts as a “de-risking” mechanism for both India and Europe, reducing dependence on Chinese supply chains and solidifying a democratic economic bloc.
- Regulatory Alignment: The agreement includes sensitive “Trade and Sustainable Development” chapters, requiring India to align with EU standards on labor and environment (like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism – CBAM).
- Service Sector Boom: India secured easier visa norms for professionals (Mode 4 trade), which will significantly benefit the IT and healthcare sectors.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Industry | Duty-free access for Textiles, Leather, and Gems. | EU’s dairy and auto sectors may threaten local Indian farmers/manufacturers. | PLI Scheme: Helps Indian firms scale up to meet EU quality standards. |
| Legal/IPR | Stronger protection for Geographical Indications (GIs) like Darjeeling Tea. | Strict EU Intellectual Property rules could hike the cost of life-saving generic drugs. | National IPR Policy: Modernizing India’s patent regime. |
| Sustainability | Encourages green technology transfer from Europe to India. | CBAM (Carbon Tax) could act as a non-tariff barrier for Indian steel and cement. | National Green Hydrogen Mission: Aims to decarbonize Indian exports. |
Examples
- Textile Parity: Previously, Bangladesh and Vietnam had 0% duty in the EU while India paid 9.6%. This FTA removes that disadvantage.
- Spirits & Wines: A reduction in India’s 150% import duty on Scotch whiskey was a key compromise to secure concessions for Indian textiles.
Way Forward
- Compliance Support: Establish MSME helpdesks to help small exporters meet EU’s “Green Deal” standards.
- Labor Reforms: Proactively implement the four Labor Codes to avoid disputes under the FTA’s “Sustainability” clause.
- Domestic Value Chains: Strengthen the “Brand India” image to move from being a raw material exporter to a high-end product manufacturer.
- Monitoring Mechanism: Set up a joint council to resolve technical barriers to trade (TBT) in real-time.
Conclusion
The India-EU FTA is a milestone that transcends trade. It signifies India’s readiness to integrate with global high-standard markets while providing Europe with a resilient, democratic alternative to traditional supply chains.
Practice Mains Question
“The conclusion of the India-EU FTA is a testament to ‘strategic economic autonomy’ in a fragmenting global order.” Discuss the potential impact of this agreement on India’s labor-intensive sectors and environmental compliance.
Topic 2: 77th Republic Day & ‘Operation Sindoor’ Weaponry
Syllabus
- GS Paper 3: Indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Science and Technology- developments.
- GS Paper 1: Modern Indian history (150 years of Vande Mataram).
Context
The Republic Day parade on January 26-27, 2026, showcased the “Suryastra” and “Divyastra” systems used in ‘Operation Sindoor’ (the 2025 border operation), celebrating 150 years of the song Vande Mataram.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Defense Self-Reliance: The display was 100% indigenous, proving that India has moved from licensed production to original design and manufacturing (ODM).
- Strategic Deterrence: Showcasing the Suryastra (universal rocket launcher) serves as a signal to adversaries of India’s enhanced “Integrated Battle Group” capabilities.
- Space-Defense Synergy: The presence of Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla highlighted the integration of ISRO’s capabilities with military reconnaissance.
- Socio-Cultural Synthesis: The “Vande Mataram” theme successfully linked India’s historical struggle for sovereignty with its modern quest for technological supremacy.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Security | Proven operational efficacy of the showcased hardware in ‘Operation Sindoor’. | High visibility of tech can lead to “reverse engineering” or tactical counters by rivals. | iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence): Funding defense startups. |
| Economy | Strong “Made in India” pitch for the global arms export market. | Heavy R&D spending on defense might divert funds from social sectors like health. | Defense Production & Export Promotion Policy: Aiming for $5bn exports. |
| Social | High national morale and inspiration for youth to join STEM/Armed Forces. | Critics argue against the “militarization” of national festivals. | Agnipath Scheme: Reforming the soldier recruitment profile. |
Examples
- Suryastra Launcher: A modular system that can be deployed from high-altitude Ladakh to the tropical Andaman islands.
- Tapavas UAVs: Indigenous drones shown in the parade that were critical for real-time surveillance during recent border tensions.
Way Forward
- Export Aggression: Actively market the showcased “Suryastra” to friendly nations in Africa and SE Asia.
- Private-PSU Synergy: Increase the role of private players (like Tata/L&T) in the maintenance of these showcased systems.
- Dual-Use Tech: Explore how technologies like the “Divyastra” battery can be used for civilian power storage in remote areas.
- Cyber-Hardening: As these systems become more AI-driven, invest heavily in indigenous anti-hacking protocols.
Conclusion
Republic Day 2026 was a visual manifestation of India’s “Aatmanirbharta.” By showcasing weapons tested in real-time operations, India has projected itself not just as a defensive power, but as a technological leader.
Practice Mains Question
“Modern military parades are as much about diplomatic messaging as they are about national celebration.” Evaluate the strategic significance of the weaponry displayed in the 2026 Republic Day parade.
Topic 3: Zero-Indigenous Malaria Cases in 160 Districts
Syllabus
- GS Paper 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.
- GS Paper 3: Science and Technology (Biotechnology and Health).
Context
Government data released on Jan 27, 2026, confirms that 160 districts have maintained “Zero Indigenous Case” status for three consecutive years, placing India on track for its 2030 “Malaria Mukt” goal.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Health Equity: This achievement is most significant in rural and tribal belts, where malaria has historically been the leading cause of “poverty traps” due to high treatment costs.
- GIS and Big Data: The success is attributed to “Micro-stratification”—using satellite data to predict breeding spots and deploying “Drone-spraying” in inaccessible terrains.
- Climate Resilience: Despite 2025 being a year of erratic monsoons, the health system successfully prevented outbreaks, showing improved climate-adaptation in public health.
- Cross-Border Threat: While 160 districts are clear, the “importation” of cases from neighboring countries (Nepal, Myanmar) remains the primary risk to this “Zero-case” status.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Public Health | Massive reduction in “out-of-pocket” expenditure for the rural poor. | Risk of “immunity gap” in zero-case districts, making future outbreaks more severe. | National Framework for Malaria Elimination (2016-2030): The primary roadmap. |
| Technology | Success of GIS-based surveillance can be replicated for Dengue and Zika. | Over-reliance on chemical sprays (DDT/Synthetic Pyrethroids) causes environmental damage. | Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: For real-time patient tracking. |
| Governance | Exceptional Center-State-Panchayat coordination in the “High Burden” states. | Under-reporting in private clinics remains a data-quality bottleneck. | National Health Mission (NHM): Funding the frontline ASHA workers. |
Examples
- The Odisha Model: Use of ‘DAMAN’ (Durgama Anchalare Malaria Nirakaran) to target hard-to-reach tribal villages.
- Biological Control: Using Gambusia (mosquito-eating fish) in 40 districts as a green alternative to chemicals.
Way Forward
- Vigilance Maintenance: Transition from “Mass Spraying” to “Focal Surveillance” to prevent re-introduction.
- Vaccine Integration: Start pilot projects for the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine in the remaining high-burden districts.
- Cross-Border Synergy: Initiate a “SAARC Malaria Protocol” for real-time data sharing with neighbors.
- Urban Focus: Shift resources to tackle “Urban Malaria” as construction sites become the new breeding hubs.
Conclusion
Reaching 160 malaria-free districts is a “proof of concept” for India’s public health machinery. The journey from 160 to all 700+ districts will require a transition from a general health campaign to a technology-driven, “search-and-destroy” mission.
Practice Mains Question
“Eliminating a disease is harder than controlling it.” In light of the 160 districts reaching zero malaria cases, discuss the technical and administrative challenges of the ‘Final Mile’ in disease elimination.
Topic 4: 100% Procurement of Pulses at MSP
Syllabus
- GS Paper 3: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System; Food security.
- GS Paper 2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population.
Context
On January 26-27, 2026, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reiterated the government’s commitment to 100% procurement of major pulses (Tur, Masoor, and Urad) at Minimum Support Price (MSP) under the “National Pulses Mission.”
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Nutritional Security: India is the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses. By guaranteeing MSP procurement, the government is incentivizing farmers to shift from water-intensive cereals (Rice/Wheat) to protein-rich pulses, addressing the “hidden hunger” of malnutrition.
- Economic Stability: Pulse prices are notoriously volatile. The 100% procurement through NAFED and NCCF acts as a price floor, protecting farmers from “distress sales” when market prices crash due to bumper harvests.
- Environmental Sustainability: Pulses are “nitrogen-fixing” crops that improve soil fertility naturally. Encouraging their cultivation reduces the country’s massive fertilizer subsidy bill and conserves groundwater.
- Reducing Import Dependency: India currently imports a significant portion of its pulse requirements from nations like Mozambique and Myanmar. This policy aims for Atmanirbharta (Self-reliance) in pulses by 2027.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Farmers | Guaranteed income parity with cereal farmers; reduces risk of market price volatility. | Implementation gaps in remote areas; delays in payments through state agencies. | PM-AASHA: The umbrella scheme for remunerative prices to farmers. |
| Economy | Saves foreign exchange by reducing pulse imports (currently ~2-3 million tonnes). | Massive fiscal burden on the exchequer for procurement and storage. | National Pulses Mission: Allocated ₹11,440 crore for 2025-26. |
| Ecology | Crop diversification prevents desertification of soil in Northwest India. | If not managed, excess stock in government silos can rot due to poor storage infra. | Soil Health Card Scheme: Complements pulse farming benefits. |
Examples
- Price Volatility: In 2024, Tur prices spiked to ₹150/kg; the 100% procurement aim prevents such spikes by maintaining a robust buffer stock.
Way Forward
- Storage Infrastructure: Invest in “Silage” and climate-controlled warehouses to prevent post-procurement losses.
- Digital Integration: Use the e-NAM platform to ensure transparent, middleman-free procurement.
- Seed Technology: Distribute high-yielding, climate-resilient seeds to farmers to increase productivity per hectare.
- Farmer Awareness: Focus on educating farmers in non-traditional pulse-growing regions like Punjab and Haryana.
Conclusion
100% procurement of pulses is a strategic shift from “Food Security” (caloric) to “Nutritional Security” (protein). It balances the interests of the farmer (income), the consumer (price), and the planet (soil health).
Practice Mains Question
“The shift towards guaranteed procurement of pulses is essential for the ecological and nutritional sustainability of Indian agriculture.” Discuss in the context of the National Pulses Mission.
Topic 5: The 50th PRAGATI Meeting & Governance Reform
Syllabus
- GS Paper 2: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential.
- GS Paper 2: Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
Context
Prime Minister Modi chaired the 50th meeting of PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation), a landmark milestone. Since its inception, the platform has facilitated the review of projects worth over ₹85 lakh crore.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Institutionalizing Accountability: PRAGATI is a unique “three-tier” system (PMO, Union Secretaries, and Chief Secretaries). It forces senior officials to come prepared with solutions to bottlenecks rather than mere status reports.
- Cooperative Federalism: By bringing State Chief Secretaries onto the same digital screen as Union Secretaries, it resolves inter-departmental and Center-State disputes in real-time.
- Focus on Social Sector: The 50th meeting specifically reviewed the PM SHRI schools and water resource projects, signaling a shift from just “Hard Infrastructure” (roads/rail) to “Human Infrastructure.”
- Technology as an Enabler: The platform uses GIS, satellite imagery, and real-time data feeds, making “armchair governance” impossible for bureaucrats.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Governance | Significant reduction in project time-overruns and cost-overruns. | Criticism that it centralizes power in the PMO, potentially bypassing departmental autonomy. | Digital India: The foundational tech for PRAGATI. |
| State Relations | Provides a direct line for States to voice implementation hurdles to the PM. | Smaller states may feel overshadowed by the focus on mega-infrastructure in larger states. | PM Gati Shakti: Integrated planning for multi-modal connectivity. |
| Public Welfare | Faster completion of public utility projects like hospitals and dams. | The high-level focus might miss the “micro-bottlenecks” at the local district level. | PM SHRI Schools: A key focus of the 50th meeting. |
Examples
- Stalled Projects: A railway bridge in Bihar, pending for 15 years, was cleared and completed within 2 years after being taken up in PRAGATI.
Way Forward
- State-Level PRAGATI: Encourage all states to institutionalize a “State-PRAGATI” chaired by Chief Ministers for local projects.
- Public Feedback: Integrate a “Citizen Feedback Loop” so that project completion is verified by the end-users.
- AI Integration: Use Predictive AI to identify which projects are likely to get stuck before they actually stall.
- Decentralization: Empower District Magistrates with a mini-PRAGATI dashboard to resolve local land acquisition issues.
Conclusion
PRAGATI @ 50 is a symbol of the “Reform, Perform, Transform” mantra. It has transformed the culture of the Indian bureaucracy from one of “delays and files” to one of “deadlines and outcomes.”
Practice Mains Question
“PRAGATI has redefined the paradigm of cooperative federalism and administrative accountability in India.” Critically evaluate the impact of this mechanism on the implementation of mega-infrastructure projects.
Topic 6: Bharat Parv 2026 & ‘Vande Mataram’ Heritage
Syllabus
- GS Paper 1: Indian Culture – Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
- GS Paper 3: Indian Economy – Tourism and its impact.
Context
The Ministry of Tourism organized Bharat Parv 2026 at the Red Fort (Jan 26-31). The 2026 theme centers on the 150th Anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, blending Republic Day tableaux with regional cuisines and crafts.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Cultural Diplomacy: By showcasing 41 Republic Day tableaux and 48 cultural performances, Bharat Parv acts as a “mini-India” for foreign tourists and citizens, promoting “Soft Power.”
- Economic Multiplier: The event supports hundreds of MSME artisans (via TRIFED and Handloom stalls). It turns the Republic Day celebrations into a commercial opportunity for the rural creative economy.
- Historical Awakening: Celebrating 150 years of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s “Vande Mataram” links the constitutional present of India with its revolutionary past, fostering a sense of national continuity.
- Citizen Engagement: The inclusion of “Nukkad Nataks” (street plays) and citizen zones makes the Republic Day celebrations participatory rather than just a “spectator event.”
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Culture | Preserves dying folk art forms and tribal traditions. | Risk of “commercializing” sacred or deep-rooted traditional art forms for entertainment. | Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: Promoting cultural exchange. |
| Economy | Boosts domestic tourism and footfall for local Delhi businesses. | High logistical cost for bringing artisans from remote areas (Ladakh/NE) to Delhi. | Vocal for Local: Promoting indigenous crafts and products. |
| Social | Promotes inclusivity by featuring Divyang-friendly facilities and diverse cuisines. | Heavy security presence can sometimes limit the “free-flowing” nature of a public festival. | PRASHAD Scheme: Linking pilgrimage and cultural tourism. |
Examples
- Vande Mataram: First published in 1875; its celebration in 2026 highlights its role as a “National Cry” during the Swadeshi movement.
- Tableaux display: Seeing the Ladakh or DRDO tableaux up close (after the parade) allows for deeper public education on regional diversity and tech.
Way Forward
- Virtual Bharat Parv: Use Metaverse or VR to allow people in remote villages to experience the Red Fort festival.
- Sustainability: Ensure the festival is “Zero-Waste” and uses biodegradable materials for stalls (Green Tourism).
- Artisan E-Commerce: Provide a QR-code based direct-buy system for all artisans at the stalls to ensure sales beyond the event.
- Regional Rotations: Consider hosting “Bharat Parv” in different zones (East/West/South) every year to decentralize cultural celebrations.
Conclusion
Bharat Parv 2026 is more than a festival; it is an annual audit of India’s “Unity in Diversity.” By centering the 150th year of Vande Mataram, it anchors modern India’s progress in its deep-rooted civilizational values.
Practice Mains Question
“Cultural festivals like Bharat Parv are essential for fostering a ‘National Identity’ in a diverse polity.” Discuss how such initiatives contribute to the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign and the tourism sector.
Topic 7: India-EU Security & Defence Partnership (The Mega Pact)
Syllabus
- GS Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
- GS Paper 3: Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security; Basics of Cyber Security.
Context
On January 27, 2026, alongside the FTA, India and the European Union signed a historic Security and Defence Partnership. India is now only the third Asian country (after Japan and South Korea) to have such an overarching security arrangement with the 27-member bloc.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Strategic Pivot to Indo-Pacific: The pact marks the EU’s formal commitment to regional stability in the Indian Ocean. It includes a decision to post an EU Liaison Officer at the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram to enhance real-time maritime domain awareness.
- Defence Industrial Synergy: A new industry-led India-EU Defence Industry Forum has been established. This allows Indian firms to potentially participate in the EU’s €150-billion “Security Action for Europe” (SAFE) programme, facilitating joint R&D and co-production of military hardware.
- Legal Enabler (SOIA): Both sides launched negotiations for a Security of Information Agreement (SOIA). This is a crucial legal framework that will allow the exchange of classified intelligence and sensitive defense technology, which was previously restricted.
- Countering Hybrid Threats: The partnership creates a formal structure for cooperation on Cyber Security and Counter-Terrorism. This includes a working arrangement between the CBI and Europol, including the deployment of an Indian liaison officer at Europol’s headquarters in The Hague.
- The “ReArm Europe” Opportunity: As Europe seeks to diversify its defense supply chains (reducing reliance on both China and traditional US dominance), India is positioning itself as a manufacturing hub for European defense needs.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Maritime | Joint naval exercises for counter-piracy and securing sea lanes (SLOCs). | Potential for naval friction with other regional powers in the South China Sea. | SAGAR Initiative: Security and Growth for All in the Region. |
| Technology | Access to advanced European “niche” tech in space and underwater sensors. | Concerns over “Technology Transfer” (ToT) delays from cautious EU member states. | Atmanirbhar Bharat: Using EU tech to boost local manufacturing. |
| Intelligence | Direct link with Europol to track global terror financing and cyber-criminals. | Risks associated with sharing classified data without a robust data protection law. | National Cyber Security Strategy: Strengthening India’s digital borders. |
Examples
- IFC-IOR: The EU liaison officer will work alongside counterparts from the US, UK, and France to monitor merchant vessel movements.
- Anti-Piracy: Building on the successful “Operation Atalanta” cooperation in the Gulf of Aden.
Way Forward
- Fast-track SOIA: Finalize the Security of Information Agreement within six months to unlock high-end technology transfers.
- Joint Manufacturing: Identify specific platforms (like drones or small arms) for the “India-EU Defence Industry Forum” to co-develop.
- Cyber-Drills: Conduct regular joint cyber-warfare simulations to protect critical infrastructure from non-state actors.
- Maritime Inclusion: Expand joint exercises beyond counter-piracy to include submarine rescue and humanitarian assistance (HADR).
Conclusion
The Security and Defence Partnership is the “missing pillar” that completes the India-EU relationship. By moving beyond trade into the realm of hard security, both entities have signaled their intent to act as the primary stabilizers of a multipolar world order.
Practice Mains Question
“The India-EU Security and Defence Partnership signals the emergence of a new ‘Democratic Security Axis’ in the Indo-Pacific.” Critically analyze the implications of this pact for India’s defense indigenization and its traditional policy of strategic autonomy.
Topic 8: Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards 2026
Syllabus
- GS Paper 2: Governance; Awards and Honors.
- GS Paper 4: Ethics and Human Interface (Altruism, Courage, and Compassion).
Context
On the eve of Republic Day 2026, the President of India approved the Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards for 40+ individuals for their meritorious acts of courage in saving human lives.
Main Body: Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- Moral Recognition: The awards (Sarvottam, Uttam, and Jeevan Raksha Padak) recognize the highest form of civic virtue—risking one’s life to save another.
- Inclusivity: The 2026 list highlights unsung heroes from rural backgrounds, including forest guards, railway pointsmen, and ordinary citizens, reinforcing the “People’s Republic” theme.
- Ethics in Action: In an era of “bystander apathy,” these awards serve as a powerful psychological nudge toward pro-social behavior and communal harmony.
Analysis Table: Positives, Negatives, & Government Schemes
| Dimension | Positives | Negatives | Relevant Schemes |
| Social | Promotes a culture of bravery and selfless service among the youth. | Often these heroes remain unrecognized unless a viral video or official report emerges. | National Service Scheme (NSS): Training students in life-saving. |
| Governance | Institutionalizes the recognition of human values over professional titles. | Monetary rewards (₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh) are often seen as insufficient for the risk taken. | Good Samaritan Law: Legal protection for those who help accident victims. |
Way Forward
- Publicity: Feature the stories of these awardees in school textbooks to inspire future generations.
- Life-Saving Training: Use these awardees as brand ambassadors for disaster management training at the village level.
Conclusion
The Jeevan Raksha Padak awards are a reminder that the strength of a nation lies not just in its missiles or GDP, but in the inherent courage and compassion of its citizens.
Practice Mains Question
“Recognition of individual bravery by the State is essential for fostering a ‘Compassionate Society’.” Discuss the ethical significance of the Jeevan Raksha Padak awards in the context of modern Indian society.
