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July 24 Current affairs – PM IAS

July 24, 2025No Comments

1. National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission: Progress and Challenges

Syllabus: GS2/Governance (Health); GS1/Society (Health issues)

Context As of July 24, 2025, the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) has made significant strides, screening over 6 crore people, with a focus on tribal areas where the genetic blood disorder is more prevalent. This comes as the government reaffirms its commitment to eradicate the disease by 2047.

Progress and Data

  • Screening Milestones: Out of 6 crore individuals screened, 2.15 lakh have been diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), and 16.7 lakh identified as carriers.
  • High-Performing States: Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand have exceeded their screening targets.
  • High Incidence States: Odisha, Chhattisgarh, MP, Maharashtra, and Gujarat report higher numbers of diagnosed SCD cases, underlining the geographical concentration of the disease.
  • Health Cards Distribution: 2.6 crore health cards have been distributed to screened individuals, facilitating early intervention and management.
  • Screening Method: Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) kits are widely used for rapid, reliable, and confirmatory results.
  • About Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
  • Nature: A genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells (sickle-shaped), which leads to chronic anemia, pain crises, organ damage, and increased susceptibility to infections.
  • Prevalence: Predominantly affects tribal populations in India due to genetic factors and traditional practices.
  • Treatment: While there is no universal cure, management involves medication (e.g., hydroxyurea), blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants in select cases.
  • Policy Initiatives
  • Launch: NSCAEM was launched by the Prime Minister in July 2023, setting an ambitious target for elimination by 2047.
  • Target Areas: The mission focuses on 17 high-prevalence states, primarily within tribal belts.
  • Strategies: Includes universal screening of all newborns and adolescents, counselling, early diagnosis, and management services.
  • Ayushman Bharat Integration: Patients diagnosed with SCD are eligible for benefits under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
  • Challenges and Way Forward
  • Awareness and Stigma: Low awareness and social stigma continue to be barriers to early screening and consistent treatment, especially in remote tribal areas.
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Ensuring adequate healthcare infrastructure, including diagnostic labs and treatment centers, in underserved regions remains a challenge.
  • Genetic Counselling: Scaling up genetic counselling services for carriers is crucial to prevent the intergenerational transmission of the disease.
  • Research & Development: Further investment in indigenous research for affordable and effective therapies, including gene therapy, is vital.
  • Community Participation: Engaging local communities and traditional healers for better outreach and acceptance of modern medical interventions.
  • Looking Ahead The mission’s success hinges on sustained political will, strong public health infrastructure, and active community participation to overcome geographical and social barriers, ensuring a healthier future for vulnerable populations.

2. India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) Signed: A New Chapter in Bilateral Ties Syllabus: GS2/International Relations; GS3/Economy (Trade, Investment)

Context In a significant diplomatic and economic development, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart, Rt. Hon. Keir Starmer, presided over the signing of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on July 24, 2025, during PM Modi’s official visit to the UK. This agreement is expected to unlock substantial opportunities across various sectors for both nations.

Key Outcomes of the Visit and CETA

  • Enhanced Trade & Investment: CETA aims to boost bilateral trade, remove tariffs on a wide range of goods and services, and attract greater investment in both directions. It is projected to increase bilateral trade by over 50% in the next five years.
  • Double Contribution Convention: Both leaders agreed to expedite negotiations on a Double Contribution Convention, crucial for facilitating the movement of professionals and reducing social security costs for businesses operating in both countries.
  • India-UK Vision 2035: A joint “Vision 2035” document was adopted, providing a roadmap for strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Key areas include:
    • Economy & Growth: Promoting innovation and resilient supply chains.
    • Technology & Innovation: Collaborating on emerging technologies like AI, biotechnology, semiconductors, and advanced materials.
    • Defence & Security: Finalizing a Defence Industrial Roadmap for co-design, co-development, and co-production of defence equipment.
    • Education & People-to-People Ties: Six UK universities are in advanced stages of opening campuses in India under the NEP, with Southampton University already establishing its campus in Gurugram on June 16, 2025.
    • Climate Action & Health: Joint initiatives on renewable energy, healthcare innovation, and pandemic preparedness.
  • Technology and Security Initiative (TSI): Implementation accelerated, focusing on critical minerals, telecommunications, and AI. Significance
  • Economic Impetus: CETA is expected to provide a significant boost to India’s manufacturing and services sectors, creating jobs and enhancing export competitiveness. For the UK, it offers preferential access to one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
  • Strategic Alignment: The agreement reinforces the strategic partnership between India and the UK, reflecting shared democratic values and a commitment to a rules-based international order.
  • Diversification of Trade: Reduces reliance on traditional trade partners, particularly in the post-Brexit era for the UK.
  • Knowledge Exchange: Deeper collaboration in education, research, and technology will foster innovation and human capital development.
  • Looking Ahead The successful signing of CETA marks a pivotal moment, laying the groundwork for a more integrated and mutually beneficial relationship. Both nations are poised to leverage this agreement to address global challenges and promote sustainable growth.

3. Bharat Forecast System (BharatFS): Revolutionizing Weather Prediction at Panchayat Level

Syllabus: GS1/Geography (Physical Geography); GS3/Disaster Management (Early Warning Systems); GS3/Science & Technology (Meteorology)

Context The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) announced on July 24, 2025, the successful operationalization and expansion of the “Bharat Forecast System” (BharatFS), a sophisticated Global Forecast System (GFS) model aimed at providing localized and precise weather predictions down to the panchayat level, significantly enhancing India’s disaster preparedness.

Key Features and Capabilities of BharatFS

  • Panchayat-Level Precision: BharatFS represents a paradigm shift, delivering highly localized weather advisories, critical for agriculture, disaster management, and public safety at the grassroots level.
  • Enhanced Accuracy: The upgraded GFS model shows a remarkable 30% increase in extreme rainfall prediction accuracy, particularly vital for regions like Central India prone to heavy precipitation.
  • Technological Improvements: Incorporates improved physical representation, advanced filtering techniques, and energy conservation algorithms for more robust forecasts.
  • Institutional Framework: MoES spearheads the initiative, with key agencies like the India Meteorological Department (IMD) providing weather, cyclone, and rainfall warnings; the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) monitoring earthquakes; the Central Water Commission (CWC) handling flood forecasting; and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) ensuring coordination and dissemination.
  • Specialized Tools for Disaster Risk Reduction:
    • Cyclone Forecasting: India’s “zero-casualty” achievement for recent cyclones (e.g., Cyclone Biparjoy in 2023, Cyclone Dana in 2024) has been globally recognized, leading to IMD receiving the UN Sasakawa Award 2025 for Disaster Risk Reduction.
    • Flood Forecasting: CWC issues short-range forecasts (24-hour lead time), and the FloodWatch App v2.0 provides 7-day forecasts, real-time alerts, and reservoir data, integrated with State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) and NDMA.
    • Earthquake Monitoring: NCS provides real-time seismological alerts via multiple platforms (app, SMS, email, social media), focusing on post-quake intensity maps due to the current inability to predict earthquake time, location, or magnitude globally.
  • Mission Mausam: BharatFS is a cornerstone of the Central Sector Scheme “Mission Mausam,” envisioned to make India a “weather-ready and climate-smart nation.”
  • Innovation and Future Outlook
  • Panchayat Mausam Seva: A dedicated service for local communities.
  • Dynamic Risk Matrix: For comprehensive disaster assessment.
  • Specific Alerts: Cloud burst, heatwave, and lightning-specific alerts.
  • Regionalized Alerts: Tailored warnings for the Northeast, Himalayan belt, and coastal zones.
  • AI/ML Integration: Future focus on strengthening Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in forecasting models.
  • Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure: Advisories from BharatFS will inform the planning and development of climate-resilient infrastructure.
  • Significance BharatFS represents a quantum leap in India’s meteorological capabilities, moving beyond general weather patterns to actionable, hyper-local information. This granular data is vital for empowering farmers, improving disaster response, minimizing economic losses, and ultimately saving lives, solidifying India’s position as a leader in climate adaptation for the Global South.

4. InterGlobe Foundation Launches HERITAGE Fellowships 2025: Preserving Intangible Cultural Legacy Syllabus: GS1/Art & Culture (Indian Heritage); GS2/Government Policies & Interventions (Culture)

Context On July 24, 2025, the InterGlobe Foundation, the philanthropic arm of InterGlobe Enterprises, announced the fourth edition of its HERITAGE Fellowships, marking a significant step towards the preservation and promotion of India’s rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts.

Key Focus and Objectives

  • Intangible Heritage: This year’s fellowships will specifically emphasize India’s diverse intangible cultural heritage, which includes oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe, and the knowledge and skills to produce traditional crafts.
  • Traditional Crafts: A strong focus will be placed on traditional crafts intrinsically linked to historic built heritage sites, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between tangible and intangible cultural assets. This could involve documenting crafts like traditional pottery, weaving, metalwork, or specific art forms prevalent around heritage precincts.
  • Target Beneficiaries: The fellowships are open to a wide range of professionals, including researchers, journalists, architects, ethnographers, and creative practitioners, encouraging multidisciplinary approaches to heritage conservation.
  • Fellowship Objective: The core objective is to enable selected fellows to:
    • Explore and Document: Undertake in-depth exploration and systematic documentation of cultural practices, craft traditions, local rituals, and oral narratives that are integral to communities residing in and around India’s heritage sites.
    • Interpret and Disseminate: Interpret these findings to a wider audience, raising awareness and fostering a deeper appreciation for the nuanced cultural tapestry of the nation.
    • Capacity Building: Contribute to the creation of a repository of knowledge that can inform future conservation strategies and sustainable tourism initiatives.
  • Significance
  • Holistic Heritage Preservation: The initiative promotes a more holistic approach to heritage conservation, moving beyond mere structural preservation to include the living traditions and knowledge systems that breathe life into historic sites.
  • Community Empowerment: By focusing on crafts and traditions linked to communities, it can empower local artisans, provide economic opportunities, and help revitalize dwindling traditional skills.
  • Knowledge Creation: The research and documentation generated will serve as invaluable resources for academics, policymakers, and the general public, contributing to a better understanding of India’s cultural wealth.
  • Alignment with UNESCO Goals: This initiative aligns with UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, emphasizing the global importance of protecting living traditions.
  • Building on Legacy: This builds upon InterGlobe Foundation’s consistent efforts in heritage conservation, demonstrated through projects in various heritage sites across India.
  • Looking Ahead The HERITAGE Fellowships are poised to generate critical insights and creative outputs that will not only document but also re-energize interest in India’s intangible cultural legacy, fostering a sense of pride and inspiring collaborative efforts for its long-term safeguarding.

5. E-Shram Portal: A Holistic Hub for Unorganised Workers’ Social Security

Syllabus: GS2/Government Schemes & Policies (Social Welfare); GS1/Society (Vulnerable Sections)

Context The Ministry of Labour and Employment announced on July 24, 2025, that the e-Shram portal has successfully transformed into a “One-Stop Solution” for unorganised workers, integrating various social security schemes and significantly enhancing their access to welfare benefits. This marks a pivotal moment in formalizing social protection for India’s vast informal workforce.

Progress and Functionality

  • Massive Registrations: As of July 17, 2025, over 30.94 crore unorganised workers have registered on the e-Shram portal. Each registered worker receives a unique 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) card, serving as a national database.
  • “One-Stop-Solution” Launch: The comprehensive “eShram–One-Stop-Solution” was formally launched on October 21, 2024, facilitating seamless access to a wide array of social security and welfare schemes.
  • Integrated Schemes: The portal now integrates 14 key schemes from various Central Ministries/Departments. This includes:
    • Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY): Providing accidental death and disability cover.
    • Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY): Offering life insurance cover.
    • Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-SYM): A voluntary and contributory pension scheme.
    • Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PMSVANidhi): Micro-credit facility for street vendors.
    • National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): Providing social assistance benefit to elderly, widows and persons with disabilities in the form of social pensions.
    • Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana (AABY): Social security scheme for rural landless households.
    • Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Welfare Boards: For construction workers.
  • Benefit Tracking: Registered workers can now easily apply for and track the benefits availed under these integrated schemes directly through the portal, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
  • Data-driven Policy: The centralized database enables evidence-based policymaking, better targeting of beneficiaries, and efficient delivery of services.
  • Significance
  • Formalization of Workforce: The e-Shram portal is a crucial step towards creating a national database of unorganised workers, facilitating their integration into the formal economy and social security net.
  • Enhanced Social Security: Provides a safety net for a vulnerable segment of the population, offering protection against various economic and social risks.
  • Reduced Exclusion Errors: By consolidating scheme access, it minimizes exclusion errors and ensures that eligible workers receive their entitled benefits.
  • Empowerment: Empowers unorganised workers by providing them with a verifiable identity and direct access to welfare programs, reducing their reliance on intermediaries.
  • Alignment with Budget Goals: This initiative aligns with the government’s budgetary emphasis on streamlining social security and promoting inclusive growth.
  • Challenges and Way Forward
  • Digital Literacy: Ensuring digital literacy and access to technology for all unorganised workers, especially in remote and rural areas.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Continuous and targeted awareness campaigns are needed to inform eligible workers about the benefits of registration and scheme access.
  • Inter-Ministerial Coordination: Sustained coordination among various ministries for seamless integration and effective implementation of schemes.
  • Grievance Redressal: Establishing robust grievance redressal mechanisms to address issues faced by workers.
  • Dynamic Data Updates: Ensuring the database is regularly updated to reflect changes in employment status and demographic details.
  • Looking Ahead The e-Shram portal’s evolution into a comprehensive “One-Stop Solution” is a significant stride towards realizing the vision of universal social security for India’s unorganised workforce, fostering inclusive development and economic resilience.

6. India’s Economic Resilience: Growth Trajectory and Inflation Management

Syllabus: GS3/Economy (Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment); GS3/Economy (Government Budgeting)

Context As of July 2025, India continues to demonstrate remarkable economic resilience, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing major economy globally despite prevailing global uncertainties. Recent reports from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other financial institutions highlight sustained growth and effective inflation control.

Key Economic Indicators and Performance

  • Robust GDP Growth: India’s real GDP growth was estimated at a strong 6.5% in FY 2024-25, positioning it as a leading global economic performer. The RBI forecasts similar growth rates for FY 2025-26, supported by robust domestic demand and investment.
  • Effective Inflation Control: Consumer Price Index (CPI) based inflation has shown a significant decline, reaching 2.82% in May 2025, its lowest point since February 2019. Food inflation (CFPI) also moderated to 0.99% in May 2025, indicating successful supply-side management and monetary policy interventions. The RBI anticipates inflation to remain within its medium-term target of 4%.
  • Record Exports: Total exports (merchandise and services) achieved an all-time high of USD 824.9 billion in FY 2024-25, showcasing India’s growing competitiveness in global markets. Non-petroleum merchandise exports also peaked at USD 374.1 billion, driven by sectors such as engineering goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Surge in FDI: Cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows crossed the US$ 1.05 trillion mark, with a remarkable 27% increase in equity inflows during the first nine months of FY25. This reflects strong investor confidence in India’s economic fundamentals and policy environment.
  • Comfortable Foreign Exchange Reserves: India’s foreign exchange reserves stood at a robust USD 697.9 billion as of June 20, 2025, providing ample coverage for over 11 months of goods imports and external debt obligations, enhancing economic stability.
  • Fiscal Prudence: The government has maintained a commitment to fiscal consolidation, with the fiscal deficit steadily declining, contributing to macroeconomic stability.
  • Factors Contributing to Resilience
  • Strong Domestic Demand: A large and growing domestic market continues to be a primary driver of economic activity.
  • Capital Expenditure Push: Government’s sustained focus on capital expenditure has stimulated investment and job creation.
  • Structural Reforms: Ongoing reforms in various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing (PLI schemes), and digital infrastructure, have improved the ease of doing business and enhanced productivity.
  • Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): The rapid adoption of UPI and other DPIs has formalized economic transactions and boosted financial inclusion.
  • Challenges and Way Forward
  • Global Headwinds: Geopolitical tensions, volatile commodity prices, and potential global economic slowdowns remain external risks.
  • Employment Generation: While growth is strong, ensuring adequate job creation for the large youth population remains a focus area.
  • Rural Demand Revival: Sustaining rural demand, particularly in the face of climate-related agricultural uncertainties, is crucial.
  • Inclusive Growth: Addressing income inequality and ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all segments of society.
  • Looking Ahead India’s sustained economic performance and effective policy responses position it favorably to navigate future challenges. Continued focus on structural reforms, investment in infrastructure, and human capital development will be critical to sustain this momentum and realize the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047.

7. “Kan-Kan Mein Ram”: INTACH’s Ode to India’s Cultural Consciousness Syllabus:

GS1/Art & Culture (Indian Heritage, Arts); GS2/Governance (Culture, Institutions)

Context On July 23, 2025, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) held a special screening for the release of its documentary film “Kan-Kan Mein Ram” in New Delhi. The film delves into the profound and multifaceted presence of the Ramayana in India’s cultural fabric, transcending its mythological roots to explore its enduring relevance as a living tradition.

Key Aspects of the Documentary

  • Universal Values: The film portrays the Ramayana not merely as an ancient epic but as a source of universal values suchating dharma, duty, sacrifice, and justice, which continue to shape Indian identity and ethos.
  • Living Tradition: “Kan-Kan Mein Ram” emphasizes the continuous and evolving nature of Ramayana traditions across India, showcasing how the narrative has been reinterpreted and adapted through various art forms and community practices over centuries.
  • Diverse Regional Manifestations: The documentary highlights specific, vibrant regional traditions that embody the spirit of Ramayana, including:
    • Yakshagana and Uppinikudru Puppetry (Karnataka): Illustrating how the epic is brought to life through folk theatre and intricate puppetry.
    • Lanka Podi Yatra and Ravan Chaya (Odisha): Showcasing unique ceremonial practices and shadow puppetry.
    • Sattriya Traditions (Assam): Depicting how classical dance forms narrate episodes from the Ramayana.
    • Mewati Bhapang Performance (Rajasthan): Highlighting the oral traditions and musical storytelling.
    • Ramnami Samaj (Chhattisgarh): Featuring a community whose members tattoo the name of Ram on their bodies as a spiritual devotion.
  • INTACH’s Role: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, lauded INTACH for its meticulous research, authentic portrayal, and creative execution, emphasizing the organization’s four-decade-long commitment to heritage conservation. He also acknowledged INTACH’s extensive work on projects like the Ganga Cultural Documentation Project.
  • Significance
  • Cultural Preservation: The documentary serves as a vital tool for preserving and promoting India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, particularly its intangible aspects.
  • Inter-Generational Knowledge Transfer: By showcasing living traditions, it encourages the younger generation to connect with and appreciate their cultural roots.
  • Soft Power Diplomacy: Such cultural initiatives contribute to India’s soft power globally, showcasing its unique spiritual and artistic heritage.
  • National Unity: The film subtly underscores the unifying thread of the Ramayana narrative that permeates diverse regions and communities across India.
  • Research & Documentation: Provides valuable ethnographic and cultural documentation, aiding scholars and enthusiasts.
  • Looking Ahead “Kan-Kan Mein Ram” is more than just a film; it is a cultural compendium that reinforces the enduring power of narratives in shaping collective consciousness. It encourages a deeper engagement with India’s spiritual and artistic legacies, fostering pride and responsibility towards their continued safeguarding.

8. India’s Defence Modernization: Towards Indigenisation and Strategic Autonomy

Syllabus: GS3/Defence & Security (Defence Technology, Indigenization); GS2/Government Policies & Interventions (Defence Policy)

Context With 2025 declared as the “Year of Reforms” by the Ministry of Defence, India is aggressively pursuing a comprehensive modernization agenda for its armed forces, placing a strong emphasis on indigenization, technological advancement, and fostering a robust defence industrial ecosystem through public-private partnerships. This push aims to enhance strategic autonomy and reduce reliance on foreign imports.

Key Initiatives and Achievements

  • Increased Defence Budget and Procurement: The defence budget saw a significant rise to ₹6.81 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernization. In FY 2024-25, 193 contracts worth ₹2,09,050 crore were signed, with a remarkable 177 of these awarded to domestic industry, demonstrating a strong preference for ‘Make in India.’
  • Positive Indigenisation Lists (PILs): Five Positive Indigenisation Lists have been issued to date, covering over 5,500 items. By February 2025, approximately 3,000 of these items have been successfully indigenized. Notable examples include advanced artillery guns, modern assault rifles, Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs), and various radar systems.
  • Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and ADITI: A substantial allocation of ₹449.62 crore for iDEX and its sub-scheme ADITI for FY 2025-26 underscores the focus on supporting defence startups and MSMEs in developing cutting-edge technologies.
  • Liberalized FDI Policy: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in defence manufacturing has been liberalized to allow up to 74% through the automatic route, and above 74% via the government route, to attract global technology and investment.
  • Major Acquisitions and Projects:
    • MQ-9B Drones: The deal for 31 MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) with the US has been finalized, significantly bolstering India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
    • LCH Prachand: Contracts for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) Prachand, valued at ₹62,700 crore, have been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), showcasing indigenous design and manufacturing prowess.
    • Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): The approval of the AMCA Programme Execution Model in May 2025 is a critical step towards developing India’s next-generation stealth fighter jet, boosting indigenous aerospace capabilities.
    • Naval Enhancements: Continued focus on indigenous warship building and submarine construction under ‘Project 75I’ and other initiatives.
  • Manthan Event: The annual defence innovation event, held during Aero India 2025, continues to serve as a platform for fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and the armed forces. Significance
  • Strategic Autonomy: Reduces critical dependence on foreign suppliers, enhancing national security and self-reliance in defence.
  • Economic Growth: Stimulates the domestic defence manufacturing sector, creating jobs, fostering technological advancements, and boosting exports.
  • Technological Advancement: Encourages research and development, leading to the creation of advanced defence technologies.
  • Global Positioning: Positions India as a responsible and capable defence exporter, contributing to its global strategic influence.
  • Challenges and Way Forward
  • Quality and Timelines: Ensuring that indigenously developed systems meet stringent quality standards and are delivered within projected timelines.
  • R&D Investment: Sustained and increased investment in cutting-edge defence research and development, including emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and hypersonics.
  • Skill Development: Developing a highly skilled workforce for advanced manufacturing and maintenance in the defence sector.
  • Private Sector Participation: Further incentivizing and integrating the private sector, including MSMEs and startups, into the defence supply chain. Looking Ahead India’s defence modernization trajectory underscores a clear vision: to build a technologically advanced, self-reliant, and formidable military that can effectively safeguard national interests and contribute to regional stability.

9. Ground-Level Ozone Breaching Safety Limits in NCR: A Silent Threat to Public Health

Syllabus: GS3/Environment & Ecology (Environmental Pollution); GS1/Geography (Environmental Issues) Context A report released by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) on July 24, 2025, highlighted a concerning trend: ground-level ozone (O3) concentrations in the National Capital Region (NCR) frequently breached national safety limits during the pre-monsoon months of March to May 2025. This invisible pollutant poses a significant and often underestimated threat to public health and the environment. Understanding Ground-Level Ozone (O3)

  • “Bad Ozone”: Unlike stratospheric ozone, which protects from UV radiation, ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant.
  • Formation: It is a secondary pollutant, meaning it’s not directly emitted. It forms when precursor pollutants – primarily oxides of nitrogen (NOₓ) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – react chemically in the atmosphere in the presence of strong sunlight and high temperatures. Stagnant air conditions further exacerbate its accumulation.
  • Sources of Precursors:
    • Vehicle Emissions: A major contributor of NOₓ and VOCs, especially from older vehicles and inadequate fuel quality.
    • Industrial Processes: Emissions from power plants, factories, and other industrial activities.
    • Evaporative Emissions: From petrol pumps, solvent use (paints, chemicals).
    • Biomass and Waste Burning: Agricultural stubble burning and municipal waste burning release significant amounts of precursors. Impacts of Ozone Pollution
  • Human Health:
    • Respiratory Issues: Causes breathing difficulties, triggers asthma attacks, and aggravates chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., bronchitis, emphysema).
    • Lung Damage: Prolonged exposure can lead to permanent lung damage, reducing lung function.
    • Other Symptoms: Can cause throat irritation, headaches, and chest pain.
    • Vulnerable Groups: Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly susceptible.
  • Ecosystems: Damages vegetation, reduces crop yields, and impacts forest health.
  • Government Measures and Challenges
  • BS-VI Emission Norms: Implementation of Bharat Stage VI emission standards has significantly reduced NOₓ emissions from new vehicles.
  • Electric Mobility Push: Promoting Electric Vehicles (EVs) under initiatives like PM-E Drive aims to reduce tailpipe emissions.
  • Industrial Emission Standards: Revised and stricter emission standards for various industrial sectors.
  • Vapour Recovery Systems (VRS): Installation at petrol pumps to control VOC emissions.
  • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Targets 130 non-attainment cities (including NCR) with city-specific action plans to reduce particulate matter and other air pollutants.
  • Stubble Burning Control: Efforts to control agricultural stubble burning in neighboring states. Challenges:
  • Transboundary Pollution: Ozone precursors can travel long distances, making regional cooperation essential.
  • Temperature Dependence: Rising temperatures due to climate change can intensify ozone formation.
  • Complex Chemistry: Ozone formation is a complex photochemical process, making control strategies challenging.
  • Enforcement Gaps: Ensuring strict enforcement of emission standards and regulations. Way Forward
  • Integrated Air Quality Management: A holistic approach addressing all major air pollutants and their precursors.
  • Public Awareness: Educating the public about the dangers of ground-level ozone and preventive measures.
  • Renewable Energy Transition: Accelerating the shift to cleaner energy sources to reduce emissions from power generation.
  • Sustainable Urban Planning: Promoting public transport, cycling, and walking to reduce vehicular emissions.
  • Real-time Monitoring & Data Dissemination: Expanding the network of air quality monitors and making data accessible to the public for informed decision-making.
  • Looking Ahead Addressing ground-level ozone pollution requires sustained, multi-sectoral efforts, focusing not just on end-of-pipe solutions but on source reduction of precursor emissions, particularly from transport and industry, to ensure cleaner air and protect public health.

10. India to Host Karman Week 2025: A Global Space Summit in Bangalore

Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology (Space Technology); GS2/International Relations (Global Groupings) Context The Karman Project, a prestigious global foundation dedicated to advancing peace and cooperation in space, has announced that its flagship event, “Karman Week 2025,” will be hosted in Bangalore, India, in October. This selection underscores India’s rapidly growing prominence in the global space sector and its commitment to leveraging space technologies for societal benefit.

Key Aspects of Karman Week 2025

  • Host City & Partner: Bangalore, India’s “Silicon Valley” and a hub for space technology, will host the event. SatSure, an Earth Intelligence company specializing in satellite data analytics, will serve as the host partner, showcasing India’s burgeoning private space industry.
  • Elite Gathering: Karman Week will convene 15 high-impact global leaders from the space domain. This elite group will include astronauts, heads of leading space agencies, top industry executives, and prominent researchers, fostering strategic dialogue and collaboration.
  • Program Focus: The week-long event will be structured around:
    • Strategic Dialogue: Discussions on the future of space exploration, sustainable space practices, and global space governance.
    • Cultural Exchange: Opportunities for participants to engage with India’s vibrant scientific and cultural landscape.
    • Innovation Showcases: Highlighting cutting-edge advancements in space technology, particularly those with real-world applications.
  • India’s Leadership in Space: The decision to host in Bangalore reflects India’s significant achievements and visionary approach in space, including:
    • Recent Milestones: 2025 has been a landmark year, witnessing the 100th launch from India’s primary spaceport, the successful organization of the Global Conference on Space Exploration in New Delhi, and a complex docking maneuver between two Indian satellites in orbit – a feat achieved by only three other nations globally.
    • Application-Driven Space Program: India’s space program has historically focused on using space technologies for national development, including applications in agriculture, climate resilience, disaster response, and rural connectivity.
  • The Karman Project: Named after Theodore von Kármán, a pioneer in aerospace engineering, the project aims to bridge the gap between scientific advancement and societal impact in space, fostering a global community of thought leaders.
  • Significance
  • Global Recognition: Hosting Karman Week elevates India’s standing as a major player and thought leader in the international space community.
  • Boost to Private Sector: The event provides a platform for India’s burgeoning private space sector to showcase its capabilities and attract global partnerships and investments.
  • Fostering Collaboration: Facilitates crucial dialogues and collaborations among global space leaders, addressing common challenges and opportunities in space exploration and utilization.
  • Inspiration for Youth: Inspires the next generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to pursue careers in space.
  • Strategic Dialogue: Offers a unique forum for discussions on critical issues like space debris, responsible space behavior, and equitable access to space resources.
  • Looking Ahead Karman Week 2025 in Bangalore is poised to be a landmark event, cementing India’s role in shaping the future of space. It will serve as a catalyst for innovation, international cooperation, and the continued application of space technologies for the benefit of humanity.

11. Monsoon Session Disruptions: Parliament Grapples

Syllabus: GS2/Polity & Governance (Parliament, Functioning of the Legislature) Context The Monsoon Session of Parliament on July 24, 2025, continued to be marked by significant disruptions, particularly in the Lok Sabha, as opposition members demanded debates on critical issues, while the Rajya Sabha managed a brief period of calm for farewell addresses before also facing protests.

Proceedings and Key Issues

  • Lok Sabha Disruptions:
    • Protests Over SIR: The Lok Sabha was repeatedly adjourned amidst protests by opposition members demanding an immediate discussion on the “Special Intensive Revision (SIR)” of electoral rolls in Bihar. Opposition MPs entered the Well of the House and displayed placards, leading to repeated adjournments by Speaker Om Birla, who expressed dismay over the wastage of taxpayers’ money.
    • Unaddressed Bills: Amidst the uproar, crucial legislative business remained stalled. The Law Minister, Arjun Ram Meghwal, questioned the opposition’s stance, particularly concerning a Bill aimed at providing seats for Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa Legislative Assembly – a historically significant move.
    • Question Hour Disrupted: The Question Hour, typically a key mechanism for government accountability, was also severely affected due to the continuous sloganeering.
  • Rajya Sabha Proceedings:
    • Farewell to Retiring Members: The Rajya Sabha witnessed a brief period of calm as it bid farewell to six retiring members from Tamil Nadu, including M. Mohamed Abdulla (DMK), N. Chandrasegharan (AIADMK), Anbumani Ramadoss (PMK), M. Shanmugam (DMK), Vaiko (MDMK), and P. Wilson (DMK), with Mr. Wilson being re-elected.
    • Oath by Nominated Member: Ujjwal Deorao Nikam, a newly nominated member, took his oath.
    • Resumption of Protests: Following the farewell addresses, the opposition resumed protests, also demanding a debate on the Bihar SIR exercise.
    • Legislative Business Amidst Din: Despite the protests, the Rajya Sabha managed to take up the “Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025” for discussion, which aims to define responsibilities, liabilities, rights, and immunities related to maritime goods transport. However, the discussion occurred amidst continuous sloganeering, leading to eventual adjournment.
  • Major Points of Contention (Beyond SIR): Reports from various sources indicated that opposition concerns also included broader issues related to the conduct of elections, federal relations, and other aspects of governance, though SIR remained the immediate trigger for disruptions.
  • Significance of Parliamentary Functioning
  • Accountability: Parliament is the primary forum for holding the executive accountable. Disruptions impede this crucial function.
  • Legislation: Delays in passing bills can impact governance and policy implementation.
  • Deliberation: Robust debates and discussions are essential for effective policymaking and addressing public concerns.
  • Representation: Members represent their constituencies, and their inability to raise issues due to disruptions undermines democratic representation.
  • Way Forward
  • Constructive Dialogue: The need for both ruling and opposition parties to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament.
  • Adherence to Rules: Strict adherence to parliamentary rules and procedures by all members.
  • Pre-Session Consultations: More effective pre-session meetings between the government and opposition to iron out differences and agree on legislative agenda and discussion topics.
  • Strengthening Committee System: Utilizing the parliamentary committee system more effectively for detailed scrutiny of bills, reducing the need for extensive debates on the floor.
  • Public Discourse: Promoting a public discourse that values parliamentary decorum and constructive engagement over disruption. Looking Ahead The repeated disruptions underscore the persistent challenge of parliamentary paralysis in India. Ensuring effective functioning of Parliament is paramount for democratic governance, legislative efficacy, and addressing the pressing issues facing the nation.

12. Draft Greenhouse Gases Emission Intensity Target Rules, 2025: Strengthening India’s Climate Action

Syllabus: GS3/Environment & Ecology (Climate Change, Environmental Laws); GS3/Economy (Industrial Policy) Context The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) issued the Draft Greenhouse Gases Emission Intensity Target Rules, 2025, on June 23, 2025. These rules, framed under the broader Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023, mark a crucial step in operationalizing India’s climate commitments and establishing a robust framework for industrial decarbonization. Key Provisions of the Draft Rules

  • Emission Intensity Targets: The rules specify mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity reduction targets for identified “obligated entities” across various industrial sectors. Emission intensity is typically measured as GHG emissions per unit of output or revenue, encouraging efficiency.
  • Compliance Mechanism: The framework for compliance follows the established mechanisms under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023. This implies:
    • Target Setting: Designated consumers (industrial units) will be assigned specific emission intensity targets.
    • Energy Savings Certificates (ESCerts): Entities exceeding their targets will generate tradable Carbon Credit Certificates (CCCs), similar to the existing ESCerts under the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme.
    • Market-Based Mechanism: A market-based mechanism for trading these certificates will allow entities that cannot meet their targets to purchase certificates from those that have over-achieved, promoting cost-effective emission reductions across the economy.
    • Verification and Enforcement: Robust mechanisms for monitoring, reporting, verification (MRV) of emissions, and penalties for non-compliance.
  • Proposed Amendments to Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: In a related development, the MoEF&CC also proposed amendments to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. A significant amendment introduces flexibility in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements:
    • Carry-Forward Provision: Producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) will now be allowed to carry forward shortfalls in their recycled plastic content targets for the financial year 2025-26 for a period of three years, starting from 2026-27. This provides industries with more flexibility to meet their obligations while continuing their efforts towards plastic waste management. Significance
  • Operationalizing Climate Goals: These rules are essential for translating India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement into actionable domestic policies, particularly the target to reduce the emission intensity of its GDP.
  • Industrial Decarbonization: Provides a clear regulatory signal for industries to invest in cleaner technologies and improve energy efficiency, fostering a transition towards a low-carbon economy.
  • Market-Based Efficiency: The cap-and-trade mechanism under CCTS is expected to drive emission reductions efficiently by leveraging market forces.
  • Promoting Circular Economy: The amendments to plastic waste management rules, while offering flexibility, still reinforce the principle of Extended Producer Responsibility and encourage recycling infrastructure development.
  • Global Leadership: Demonstrates India’s proactive stance in addressing climate change and its commitment to sustainable development, enhancing its credibility in international climate negotiations. Challenges and Way Forward
  • Data Accuracy & MRV: Ensuring accurate and transparent measurement, reporting, and verification of emissions across diverse industrial sectors.
  • Market Volatility: Managing potential volatility in the carbon credit market to ensure stable pricing signals for industries.
  • Capacity Building: Building technical capacity within industries for compliance and within regulatory bodies for effective oversight.
  • Integration with Other Policies: Harmonizing these rules with other environmental and industrial policies to avoid contradictions and maximize impact.
  • Innovation in Recycling: Encouraging R&D and investment in advanced recycling technologies to improve plastic waste utilization.
  • Looking Ahead The Draft GHG Emission Intensity Target Rules, 2025, along with updates to plastic waste management, represent a critical phase in India’s environmental governance. Their effective implementation will be crucial for achieving national climate targets, fostering green growth, and establishing India as a leader in sustainable development.
Last updated on July 24, 2025

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