Jan 11 2025

Recently, the Indian Foreign Secretary met with the Taliban’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai

This meeting represents India’s highest-level engagement with the Taliban since their return to power in August 2021.

Recent Shifts in India’s Engagement with the Taliban

India-Taliban Talks

  • Pragmatic Approach: India has moved towards a pragmatic engagement with the Taliban, despite not granting formal recognition to their regime. The focus has shifted from isolation to security concerns, trade, and humanitarian assistance.
    • The Taliban’s requests for India to restart development projects and provide material support in areas such as healthcare and refugee rehabilitation were discussed.
  • Humanitarian Assistance: India agreed to expand its involvement in humanitarian efforts, including further support to Afghanistan’s health sector and efforts to rehabilitate refugees
    • India has already provided significant aid, such as 50,000 MT of wheat, 300 tons of medicines, and vaccines.
  • Trade and Connectivity: A key focus of the discussions was on promoting the use of the Chabahar Port as a key gateway for trade and commercial activities, bypassing Pakistan’s ports.
    • India’s support for Afghanistan’s trade and the expansion of connectivity via Chabahar port is essential for bolstering Afghanistan’s economic ties with India and the region.
  • Security Concerns: India’s main security concern remains ensuring that Afghanistan’s soil is not used for anti-India activities by militant groups like LeT, JeM, and ISKP.
    • The Taliban’s assurances to India on security guarantees for Indian interests and facilities in Afghanistan were discussed, addressing some of India’s primary security fears.
  • Strained Relations with Pakistan: The Pakistan-Taliban relationship has become increasingly strained, particularly with Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan soil, which India condemned in January 2025.
    • The Taliban’s growing discomfort with Pakistan offers India an opportunity to strengthen its position in Afghanistan by engaging with the Taliban.
  • Strategic Autonomy for the Taliban: The Taliban has expressed its desire to demonstrate strategic autonomy and reduce its dependency on Pakistan, signaling a shift in its foreign policy.
    • The Taliban has shown interest in strengthening ties with India as part of its balanced and economy-centric foreign policy, viewing India as a key regional partner.
  • Continued Engagement Despite Human Rights Concerns: Despite the Taliban’s oppressive policies, especially regarding women’s rights, India has continued its engagement, focusing on developmental cooperation and humanitarian aid.
    • India has reiterated that it will not recognize the Taliban regime formally but will engage based on its national security interests and humanitarian commitments.

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India-Afghanistan Relations: Historical Perspective

Ancient Period

  • Indus Valley Civilization: Historical ties trace back to the Indus Valley Civilization, where trade and cultural exchanges were prominent.
  • Gandhara Region: Gandhara, part of modern-day Afghanistan, was one of the 16 Mahajanapadas in the Vedic Age. It was a hub for Buddhism, introduced by the Mauryan Empire.
    • Bamiyan Buddhas: These majestic sculptures highlighted the influence of Buddhism in the region Period
  • Cultural Exchange: Afghanistan served as a gateway for cultural exchanges and the spread of Islam into India.
  • Political Integration: Several rulers of the Indian subcontinent, including the Mughals, had Afghan roots, further intertwining the two regions.

Colonial Era

  • Anglo-Afghan Relations: Afghanistan’s strategic location led to several conflicts between British India and Afghanistan, including the Anglo-Afghan Wars (1839–1842, 1878–1880).
  • Durand Line: Established in 1893 by the British, this boundary caused long-term disputes and instability in the region .
    • Afghanistan has never officially recognized the Durand Line as the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Post-Independance 

  • Treaty of Friendship (1950): India and Afghanistan established formal diplomatic relations, emphasizing mutual respect and sovereignty .
  • Afghanistan’s Neutrality: Participation in the Asian Relations Conference (1947) emphasized its commitment to neutrality and friendly relations with India .
  • Soviet-Afghan Relations (1979-1989): India sup Soviet-backed Afghan government during the Cold War, the only South Asian country to do so.

Modern Era

  • Taliban Era (1996–2001): Relations soured during the Taliban regime, marked by incidents like the Kandahar hijacking (1999).
  • Post-Taliban (2001): India played a key role in Afghanistan’s reconstruction after the Taliban’s fall, committing over $3 billion for infrastructure and capacity building projects.
    • Landmarks:
      • Salma Dam (Afghan-India Friendship Dam): Completed in 2016.
      • Zaranj-Delaram Highway: Facilitated trade with Iran via Chabahar Port.

Reasons Behind India’s Decision to Engage Afghanistan

  • Strained Pakistan-Taliban Relations: The once-close alliance between Pakistan and the Taliban has deteriorated due to increasing tensions.
    • Taliban’s support for Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan territory have caused friction.
    • This provides India an opportunity to step in and counter Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan.
  • China’s Growing Influence: China has deepened ties with the Taliban, including exchanging ambassadors and launching urban development projects.
    • Beijing’s investments in Afghanistan’s natural resources under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) threaten India’s regional interests, prompting Delhi to act to protect its influence.
  • US Policy Changes and Trump’s Return: The return of Donald Trump to the White House may see renewed US-Taliban engagement.
    • India aims to secure its interests in Afghanistan ahead of possible American re-engagement with the Taliban.
  • Regional Security and Counterterrorism: A stable Afghanistan is critical to ensuring that terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) do not use its territory for anti-India activities.
  • Economic Opportunities: Afghanistan’s untapped mineral wealth, including copper, iron, lithium, and rare earth elements, presents economic opportunities for India.
    • India has already invested $3 billion in infrastructure projects such as the Salma Dam and Afghan Parliament, which enhance Afghanistan’s economic growth and goodwill towards India.
  • Weakened Iran: Iran is preoccupied with domestic stability and tensions with Israel after attacks on its proxies (Hezbollah, Hamas) and missile strikes.
    • Iran’s reduced focus on Afghanistan creates space for India to enhance its role in the region.
  • Russia’s Strategic Shift: Caught up in the Ukraine war, Russia seeks alliances with groups like the Taliban to counter threats from Islamic extremist groups in Central Asia.
    • Moscow’s willingness to normalize relations with the Taliban highlights changing geopolitical equations, prompting India to engage proactively.
  • Strategic Location: Afghanistan acts as a gateway to Central Asia, providing India access to energy-rich markets and bypassing Pakistan through the Chabahar Port in Iran.
    • Projects like the Zaranj-Delaram Highway, built by India, facilitate trade and connectivity between India, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
  • Cultural and Historical Ties: Afghanistan and India share deep civilizational links, from the Indus Valley Civilization to the spread of Buddhism through the region.
    • India’s provision of scholarships and cultural exchanges strengthens people-to-people ties, with thousands of Afghan students studying in India each year.

Implications of India Engaging with the Taliban

Positive Implications

  • Regional Stability: Engagement with the Taliban provides India an opportunity to influence regional stability by countering terrorism and preventing Afghanistan from becoming a hub for anti-India activities.
    • It strengthens India’s presence in Afghanistan, balancing China’s growing influence and Pakistan’s strategic goals.
    • Look West Policy: Afghanistan could play a pivotal role in India’s westward geopolitical strategy.
  • Preservation of Investments: By engaging with the Taliban, India safeguards its $3 billion worth of investments in Afghanistan, including critical infrastructure projects like the Salma Dam, Zaranj-Delaram Highway, and the Afghan Parliament.
    • Resumption of stalled development projects ensures India’s continued goodwill among the Afghan population.
  • Improved Trade and Connectivity: Leveraging Chabahar Port ensures uninterrupted trade routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.
    • Strengthening trade relations boosts economic activity in the region and opens new markets for Indian exports.
  • Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: Dialogue with the Taliban helps ensure that groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) do not operate from Afghan soil.
    • Taliban’s assurances against the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP) align with India’s security concerns.
  • Humanitarian Diplomacy: Providing humanitarian aid like wheat, vaccines, and medicines enhances India’s image as a responsible global power.
    • Strengthening ties with Afghan civil society fosters people-to-people relationships.

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Negative Implications

  • Legitimizing the Taliban Regime: Engaging with the Taliban without formal recognition risks indirectly legitimizing a regime known for its repressive policies, particularly towards women and minorities.
    • This could lead to criticism domestically and internationally, challenging India’s democratic values.
  • Security Risks: Despite Taliban assurances, there remains a risk of terrorist groups using Afghanistan as a base for cross-border terrorism targeting India.
    • A deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan may spill over into South Asia, affecting regional peace.
  • Strained Relations with Western Allies: Closer ties with the Taliban might not align with the policies of Western countries, particularly those critical of Taliban human rights violations.
    • It could impact India’s partnerships with countries prioritizing democratic governance in Afghanistan.
  • Complex Relations with Pakistan: While Pakistan-Taliban relations are strained, India’s engagement might provoke a backlash from Islamabad, potentially escalating tensions.
    • Pakistan may use this as a pretext to increase proxy activities against Indian interests in Afghanistan.
  • Unpredictable Taliban Policies: The Taliban’s internal divisions and lack of a cohesive governance structure make them an unreliable partner.
    • Shifting allegiances and policies could jeopardize India’s investments and long-term strategic interests.

India’s Initiatives and Projects in Afghanistan

India-Taliban Talks

Infrastructure Development

  • Salma Dam (Afghan-India Friendship Dam): Completed in 2016, this hydroelectric and irrigation project in Herat Province highlights India’s support for Afghanistan’s energy and agriculture sectors.
  • Zaranj-Delaram Highway: Built in 2009, the 218 km road connects Afghanistan to Iran’s Chabahar Port, facilitating trade and bypassing Pakistan.
    • Constructed by India’s Border Roads Organization.
  • Afghan Parliament Building: Inaugurated in 2015, this landmark project cost ₹970 crore and stands as a symbol of India’s commitment to Afghan democracy.
  • Shahtoot Dam Project: Announced in 2021, this dam is planned to provide drinking water to Kabul and support irrigation for nearby regions.

Community Development Projects

  • High-Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP): Since 2005, India has implemented over 400 projects in all 34 provinces, focusing on education, healthcare, agriculture, and water management.
    • Example: Construction of schools, healthcare centers, and water supply systems.

Trade and Connectivity

  • Chabahar Port: Operationalized in 2017, it facilitates Afghanistan’s access to international markets and India’s trade with Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.
  • Air Freight Corridor: Launched in 2017, this corridor enables the export of Afghan goods like dry fruits, carpets, and medicinal plants to India.

Educational and Capacity-Building Programs

  • Scholarships for Afghan Students: Since 2005, India has offered 1,000 ICCR scholarships annually to Afghan students.
    • By 2023, thousands of Afghan students have graduated from Indian universities.
  • Technical Training: India provides Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training slots for Afghan professionals, focusing on governance and administration.
    • Supported the establishment of the Afghan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University (ANASTU) in 2014.

Health and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Medical Aid: India established a Medical Diagnostic Center in Kabul in 2015.
    • Provided COVID-19 vaccines, polio vaccines, and medicines, along with 50,000 MT of wheat for food security during the pandemic in 2020-2021.
  • Food Security and Nutrition: Since 2002, India has supported the UN World Food Programme, delivering high-protein biscuits to Afghan schoolchildren.

Defense and Security Cooperation

  • Military Equipment: India gifted Mi-25 attack helicopters to the Afghan Air Force in 2015-2016 to bolster their defense capabilities.
  • Training Afghan Security Forces: Since 2011, India has trained Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) personnel at institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA).

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Challenges in India-Afghanistan Relations: 

  • Security Concerns: Afghanistan’s unstable political environment has allowed terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP) to operate, posing threats to India’s national security.
    • The Kandahar hijacking (1999) and attacks on Indian assets in Afghanistan underscore the security risks posed by extremist groups.
  • Influence of Pakistan: Pakistan uses Afghanistan as a tool for strategic depth and supports groups hostile to India, such as the Haqqani Network, complicating India’s engagement.
    • Pakistan’s ties with the Taliban and its alleged role in supporting terrorism have created an environment unfavorable for India’s strategic goals in the region.
  • Taliban’s Internal Policies: The Taliban’s lack of commitment to an inclusive government and human rights violations, especially against women and minorities, make it challenging for India to justify diplomatic engagement.
    • India has consistently advocated for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process, which contrasts with the Taliban’s exclusionary governance.
  • Regional Rivalries and External Influences: Countries like China, Russia, and Iran have increased their influence in Afghanistan, potentially sidelining India’s strategic and economic interests.
    • China’s involvement in Afghanistan’s natural resource projects under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) threatens to undermine India’s economic engagement in the region.
  • Connectivity and Trade Barriers: Geographical constraints and Pakistan’s refusal to allow transit trade to Afghanistan have hindered India’s access to Afghan markets.
    • The reliance on Chabahar Port and the Zaranj-Delaram Highway for trade underscores the difficulties India faces in establishing reliable and cost-effective connectivity.

Way Forward for India-Afghanistan Relations

  • Maintain Pragmatic Engagement with the Taliban: Continue engaging the Taliban at the diplomatic and functional level to safeguard India’s strategic interests while avoiding formal recognition of the regime.
    • Focus on ensuring Afghan soil is not used for anti-India activities, such as harboring terrorist groups like LeT, JeM, and ISKP.
  • Enhance Humanitarian Assistance: Expand aid efforts in healthcare, education, and food security to strengthen people-to-people ties and foster goodwill.
    • Focus on high-impact, community-oriented projects such as schools, hospitals, and clean water systems.
  • Strengthen Regional Partnerships: Collaborate with countries like Iran, Russia, and Central Asian nations to stabilize Afghanistan and counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region.
    • Leverage platforms like SAARC and SCO for coordinated action on trade and security.
  • Secure Investments and Connectivity: Safeguard India’s $3 billion investments in Afghan infrastructure, including the Salma Dam, Zaranj-Delaram Highway, and other projects.
    • Promote the use of Chabahar Port to bolster Afghanistan’s trade access and India’s connectivity to Central Asia.
  • Support Inclusive Governance and Human Rights: Advocate for the formation of an inclusive government that respects women’s rights and minority protections, while cautiously engaging with the Taliban on these issues.
    • Collaborate with Afghan civil society to build long-term institutional and social frameworks.
  • Focus on Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Work closely with regional powers to prevent the resurgence of terrorism in Afghanistan.
    • Share intelligence and strengthen the Afghan security apparatus to counter extremist groups and protect India’s national security.

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Conclusion

The Taliban’s permanence in Afghanistan’s governance necessitates pragmatic engagement. India should expand its humanitarian, economic, and diplomatic outreach under its Act West policy while carefully navigating regional and global challenges.

Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), part of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), developed a new copper-based catalyst.

  • The catalyst has a unique star-like nanostructure and is designed to make industrial chemical reactions more sustainable.

About Copper-based Catalyst

  • This catalyst is created by growing copper oxide nanostructures on a sporopollenin template.
    • It offers a sustainable pathway for industrial chemical reactions. 
  • These catalysts can be considered green catalysts due to Abundant, Low Toxicity, Efficiency, and its Reusability. 

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What is Sporopollenin?

  • It is a biological polymer.
  • Found in: outer walls of pollen grains and spores. 
  • It has a bowl-like outer structure.
    • This structure provides a framework for the controlled growth of copper oxide nanostructures. 

  • It is efficient in water without additives and can be reused multiple times
    • Applications: Useful in organic reactions, environmental remediation, nanoscale electronics, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS).
  • Advantages of Copper-Based Catalysts
    • Copper-based catalysts are widely used due to their unique properties and benefits:
      • Abundance and Cost-Effectiveness
        • Easily Available: Copper is naturally abundant and readily accessible.
        • Low Cost: It is an inexpensive metal, making it a cost-effective choice for catalytic applications.

Green catalysts

  • Green catalysts are substances that accelerate chemical reactions while minimizing the environmental impact. 
  • They are designed to promote sustainability and reduce the use of hazardous materials in industrial processes.

      • Multiple Oxidation States
        • Flexible in Reactions: Copper exists in various oxidation states (Cu⁰, Cu⁺, Cu²⁺, Cu³⁺), enabling it to participate in a variety of chemical reactions.
      • Versatile Applications
        • Redox Reactions: Widely used in oxidation-reduction processes.
        • CO Oxidation: Effective in the conversion of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide.
        • Selective Oxidation: Facilitates the selective oxidation of organic compounds.
        • Electrochemical Reactions: Plays a key role in hydrogen evolution reactions (HER).

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About Nano Catalyst

Nano Catalyst

  • A nano catalyst is a material made up of nanoparticles that speeds up chemical reactions without being consumed.
  • Size: Operates at the nanoscale, with particle sizes ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers.
  • Key Features of Nano Catalysts
    • High Surface Area: Nanoparticles provide a large surface area, increasing the number of active sites for chemical reactions.
    • Selectivity: Nano catalysts can be tailored to target specific reactions, reducing unwanted side reactions.
    • Environmentally Friendly: Many are designed to follow green chemistry principles, requiring less energy and avoiding harsh chemicals.
    • Applications of Nano Catalysts
      • Industrial Chemical Reactions : Improve process efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
      • Environmental Remediation: Help in removing pollutants from air and water.
      • Pharmaceutical Industry: Enable cleaner and more sustainable drug synthesis.
      • Energy Production: Support the generation of clean energy sources like hydrogen.
    • Limitations of Nano Catalysts 
      • High reaction time: Nanocatalysts can have longer reaction time. 
      • It is very expensive.
      • Toxicity risks: Its use and disposal is risky to human health and environment. 
      • High sensitivity: It can lose its effectiveness under some conditions such as extreme temperatures and PH levels. 

2024 has become the first year to breach the 1.5 degree Celsius warming mark as per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S).

  • Average annual global temperature in 2024 was 1.55 degree Celsius higher than pre-industrial times (average of 1850-1900 period).
  • WMO said each of the six datasets it had used had put 2024 as the warmest year ever, but not all of them recorded the warming to be in excess of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Copernicus Climate Change Service Assessment

About Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S)

  • Objective
    • A flagship program of the European Union, C3S provides comprehensive climate data, tools, and services to monitor and adapt to climate change.
  • Data Coverage
    • Offers global and regional climate information, including temperature trends, sea level changes, and greenhouse gas concentrations, based on satellite and in-situ data.
  • Applications
    • Supports policy-making, risk assessments, and climate resilience planning in sectors like agriculture, energy, water management, and urban planning.
  • Open Access:
    •  Provides free, open, and user-friendly data via the Climate Data Store (CDS), fostering transparency and scientific collaboration.
  • Global Collaboration
    • Collaborates with international organizations like the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), enhancing global climate monitoring and response efforts.

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Details about 2024 warming statistics

  • At an average temperature of 15.1 degrees Celsius, 2024 was the warmest year in global temperature records, which go back till 1850.
  • It was 0.72 degrees Celsius above the 1991-2020 average. 
  • It was also 1.60 degrees Celsius above an estimate of the 1850-1900 temperature designated to be the ‘pre-industrial’ level.
  • Experts have said that given the high rate of carbon emissions at present, the 2024 temperatures represent a point of no return.
  • Contributing Factors:
    • El Niño Impact: It began in June 2023, lasted into 2024, exacerbating warming trends.
      • This combined with greenhouse gas emissions to break records
    • Sea Surface Temperatures (SST): Extra-polar SST reached a record high of 20.87°C, surpassing the 1991-2020 average by 0.51°C.
      •  July to December 2024 marked the second warmest period on record
  • Implications:
    • Point of No Return: Scientists suggest this milestone indicates the Earth is on track for exceeding 2°C warming by 2050
    • Highlights the urgency of reducing carbon emissions
    • Global Climate Policy Concerns: 
      • COP29 talks in Baku failed to agree on financial support for mitigating climate risks
    • Developing economies face disproportionate impacts without adequate support.
  • Importance of the 1.5°C Threshold:
    • Paris Agreement Context
      • Adopted in 2015, the Paris Agreement aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels while striving to stay within 1.5°C
    • Achieving the 1.5°C target would significantly reduce risks and impacts of climate change
    • Long-Term Perspective: The 1.5°C or 2°C targets are based on long-term averages rather than short-term or year-to-year variations
  • Monthly and daily breaches of 1.5°C have occurred multiple times in recent years but do not signify a failure of the Paris Agreement.

About Paris Climate Agreement

Copernicus Climate Change Service Assessment

  • Adoption
    • The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, during the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) of the UNFCCC and came into force on November 4, 2016.
  • Global Temperature Goal
    • It aims to limit global warming to below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels.
  • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
    • Countries submit NDCs outlining their climate action plans, updated every five years, to achieve the global temperature goal.
  • Differentiated Responsibilities:
    • Recognizes Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), holding developed countries accountable for providing climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building.
  • Long-term Goals:
    • Achieve global net zero emissions in the second half of the 21st century.
    • Enhance adaptive capacities and resilience to climate impacts.
  • Finance and Support
    • Developed nations pledged to mobilize $100 billion annually by 2020, extended until 2025, for supporting climate action in developing countries.
  • Global Participation:
    • As of now, 195 parties have signed the agreement, with 194 ratifying it, making it a nearly universal commitment.
  • Monitoring and Transparency
    • Implements a Global Stocktake every 5 years to assess progress and ensure accountability.

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India’s Targets under the Paris Agreement

Copernicus Climate Change Service Assessment

  • Emission Intensity Reduction:
    • Reduce the emission intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
  • Renewable Energy Capacity
    • Achieve 50% cumulative installed capacity from non-fossil fuel energy sources by 2030.
  • Carbon Sink
    • Create an additional 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through forest and tree cover by 2030.
  • Net Zero Commitment
    • Achieve net zero emissions by 2070 as pledged at COP26 in Glasgow.
  • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs):
    • Align climate actions with sustainable development goals, focusing on energy efficiency, clean energy, and climate resilience.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry at an event has recently launched the 8th edition of the National Programme for Organic Production and other portals.

About the National Programme for Organic Production

  • The National Programme for Organic Production provides an institutional mechanism for implementation of the,
    • National Standards for Organic Production (NSOP), certification system, criteria and procedure for accreditation of Certification Bodies, norms for the operation of certification bodies, the National (India Organic) Logo and the regulations governing its use. 
  • Secretariat: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is the secretariat for the implementation of the NPOP
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce & Industries 
  • Launch: The Program was launched in 2001 to cater to the export requirements of a third-party certification system for organic products  
  • Legal Act: The Scheme prescribes the regulatory requirements for trade in organic products notified under the provisions of the Foreign Trade Development Regulations Act, 1992 (FTDR).
  • Recognitions: The NPOP standards for production and accreditation system have been recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland for unprocessed plant products as equivalent to their country standards. 

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  • Features: 
    • Accreditation: To assess and accredit certification programmes of Certification Bodies seeking accreditation under this programme.
    • To provide the procedure for evaluation of the certification programme of Certification Bodies under this programme.
    • To develop National Standards for Organic Production, processing, handling, and labelling for different product categories.
    • To facilitate certification of organic products in conformity with the importing countries’ organic standards as per mutual recognition agreement.
    • National Programme for Organic ProductionEnsure that the certification system is transparent, easy to follow and is in line with international best practices.
  • Features of The 8th Edition:  
    • Simplifying Compliance: Certification requirements for Organic Grower Groups have been simplified and granted legal status in place of the Internal Control System (ICS).
    • Market Linkages: The Internal Control System (ICS) of the Organic Grower Groups must ensure the procurement of the entire organic produce or establish market linkages to support farmers. 
    • Reduced Land Conversion Period: The revised derogation provisions allow for a potential reduction of up to three years in the land conversion period to organic, subject to conditions and safeguards.
    • Transparency: There is a need now for disclosure of information about organic farmers and other relevant details in the public domain, bolstering system credibility.
    • Oversight Mechanisms: Strengthening of oversight mechanisms with the integration of IT tools and the web-based traceability system, Tracenet, for monitoring, surveillance, and data analytics.

About The Portals Unveiled During the Event

  • NPOP Portal: It will be a dedicated portal for the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) and will provide more visibility and ease of operations for Organic stakeholders. 
  • Organic Promotion Portal: It will include online Training and capacity building sessions for operators on Organic production and also information on Organic Trade events.
    • Farmers, FPOs and exporters can showcase their certified organic products, generate Trade Leads and connect with global buyers. 
  • TraceNet 2.0: TraceNet empowers stakeholders to streamline operations and meet global organic certification standards by ensuring transparency, traceability, and compliance for organic agricultural and processed food products from farm to market.
    • The upgraded online organic traceability system while integrating technology with agriculture will provide for seamless operations and enhanced tools for regulatory oversight. 
  • Redesigned and Revamped AgriXchange Portal: It enables more user-friendly data analysis and generation of reports & data of Agricultural exports making it accessible for the general public.
    • Exporters can seamlessly connect with international buyers and sellers as well as explore comprehensive trade insights at their fingertips.
  • APEDA portal: Redesigned and revamped APEDA portal with enhanced user experience and information for the benefit of Agri and Processed food products’ stakeholders.
  • National Cooperative Organics Ltd: It has been instituted to specially help in value addition to organic products by working with farmers including training for value addition, packaging & marketing.

About Organic Farming

  • Definition: It is a system of production which prohibits the use of synthetically produced agro-inputs like fertilizers and pesticides and uses organic materials (such as crop residues, animal residues, legumes, bio-pesticides) for maintaining soil productivity, fertility and managing pests.
    • Holistic Approach: Organic Farming emphasises a whole-system approach including individual components (soil minerals, organic matter, micro-organisms, insects, plants, animals, and humans) to create a sustainable and self-regulating ecosystem.
  • National Programme for Organic ProductionStatistics: 
    • A 2024 survey conducted in 187 countries practising organic agriculture by the international resource data from the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) and International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM),
      • India’s rank 2nd in terms of World’s Organic Agricultural land
    • Producers: The Economic Survey 2022-2023 mentions that India has 4.43 Mn organic farmers, the highest in the world.
    • Production: India produced around 2.9 Million MT (2022-23) of certified organic products with Fiber crops being the single largest category
      • It is followed by Oil Seeds, Sugar crops, Cereals and Millets, Medicinal/ Herbal and Aromatic plants, Spices & Condiments, Fresh Fruit Vegetable, Pulses, Tea & Coffee.
    • State wise: Madhya Pradesh emerged as the largest producer followed by Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Odisha.
      • Sikkim formally declared a 100 percent organic state in 2016.

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  • Government Schemes to Promote Organic Farming:
    • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): The scheme launched in 2015 promotes organic farming through the adoption of the organic village by cluster approach with a minimum of 20 Ha size.
      • The Large Area Certification (LAC) programme has been initiated since 2020-21 to identify Traditional Organic Areas like hills, islands, tribal or desert belts with no history of GMO and agrochemical use to transform them into certified organic production hubs.
    • Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region (MOVCDNER): It is a sub-mission under the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture which aims to develop crop commodity-specific organic value chain and address gaps in organic crop production, wild crop harvesting, organic livestock management and processing, etc. 
    • Jaivik Kheti organic e-commerce portal: It directly links farmers with retail as well as bulk buyers, and various stakeholders (regional councils, local groups, individual farmers, buyers, government agencies and input suppliers) for the all-inclusive development and promotion of organic farming
    • Support to Organic and Bio-Inputs: Schemes like Bhartiya Prakritik Kheti Bio-Input Resource Centres, PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAAM), Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) scheme, etc are encouraging farmers to use organic fertilisers.

The UN migration agency’s aid appeal for Syria

Context: The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration has said it is increasing an appeal for Syria, from $30 million to $73.2 million. This is being done with the aim of assisting 1.1 million people across Syria over the next 6 months. 

About International Organization for Migration (IOM)

  • Established in 1951
  • UN Affiliation:
    • It is a part of the United Nations system as a related organization.
    • IOM is not a specialized agency but a related organization of the UN since 2016
  • Principle:
    • Advocates humane and orderly migration to benefit migrants and society
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
  • Membership: 175 Member States & 8 Observer States
    • India has been a member of the IOM since June 18, 2008
  • Publications:
    • World Migration Report 
    • Migration Health Annual Report
  • Functions:
    • Migration Management: Ensures orderly and humane migration processes
    • Cooperation: Promotes international collaboration on migration issues
    • Solutions and Assistance: Practical solutions for migration challenges
    • Humanitarian Aid: To migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons
  • Key Responsibilities:
    • UN Agency for Labour Mobility and Migration provides policy and operational guidance on: 
      • Labour mobility
      • Diaspora communities and development links
      • Migrant integration
    • Coordinator for UN Network on Migration: Facilitated the UN Global Compact for Migration (adopted in 2018)

The IOM does not enforce migration policies in member countries. Instead, the IOM provides advice and assistance to governments on migration policy.

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125,000 refugees return to Syria in desperate conditions

Context: UN humanitarians recently warned about 125,000 refugees who have returned to Syria “full of hope after years of exile”, and are finding themselves confronted by desperate conditions.

Location based details about Syria

  • Located on : East coast of Mediterranean Sea in southwestern Asia.
  • Boundaries : Turkey (North), Iraq (East & southeast), Jordan (South), Israel and Lebanon (South West).
  • Important cities : Damascus (along River Barada), Homs, Aleppo.
  • Climate : Largely Mediterranean climate.
  • Mountain Ranges : Anti-Lebanon (Separate Syria & Lebanon), Al-Ansariyyah etc.
  • Major Rivers : Euphrates, Tigris, Orontes etc

 

Gulf of Mexico

Context: Recently, Trump announced his plan to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”

Gulf of Mexico’s Naming

  • The name first appeared on maps used by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
  • The Gulf is significant for the US in terms of energy resources, accounting for a large percentage of crude oil and natural gas production.

About The Gulf of Mexico

  • The Gulf of Mexico (Spanish: Golfo de México) is an ocean basin and marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • It is mostly surrounded by the North American continent.
  • Other name: “Mediterranean of the Americas”.
  • Formation: Formed as a result of seafloor subsidence, due to the movement of the Tectonic Plates over 300 million years ago.
  • The Sigsbee Deep (Mexico Basin) is the deepest region in the Gulf of Mexico
  • Borders:
    • Northeast, North, Northwest: Gulf Coast of the United States.
    • Southwest and South: Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo.
    • Southeast: Cuba.
  • “Third Coast”:
    • The Southern U.S. states of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, bordering the Gulf, are known as the “Third Coast” of the U.S., alongside the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
  • Connection to Other Water Bodies:
    • Linked to the Atlantic Ocean through the Straits of Florida (between the U.S. and Cuba).
    • Connected to the Caribbean Sea via the Yucatán Channel (between Mexico and Cuba).
  • Rivers Flowing into the Gulf of Mexico:  Mississippi River, Rio Grande, and Mobile River.
  • Important lakes around the Gulf of Mexico: Lake Pontchartrain, Laguna Madre, and Lake Borgne.
  • “Flower Garden Banks: It is a brightly colored coral reefs 
    • located about 185km to the southeast of Galveston, in the northwestern part of the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Linking Farmer ID to PM-Kisan

Context: The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has made obtaining a farmer ID mandatory for registering new beneficiaries under the PM-Kisan Scheme.

  • This system has come into force across 10 states as of  January 1, 2025 for new applicants.
    • The 10 states are: Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh accounting for about 84 per cent (9.25 crore) of 11 crore PM-Kisan beneficiaries.
  • The new applicants for the PM-Kisan scheme will have to get registered with the Farmers’ Registry and provide their farmer ID in the application form. 
  • Objective: To simplify the registration process of the PM-KISAN scheme as the farmer ID will guarantees that the applicant-farmer owns the land

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About Kisan Pehchaan Patra or farmer ID

  • Farmer ID is an Aadhaar-like unique digital identity for farmers.
  • It provides information like demographics, crops sown, and ownership details and is linked dynamically to the state’s land records.
  • Target: A target of 6 crore farmer IDs by March 2025 has been created. 
  • Farmer’s Registry: It is the database created through the farmer ID.
    • The Farmers Registry will be one of the three registries under the Agri-Stack component of the Centre’s Digital Agriculture Mission for the creation of digital public infrastructure in the farm sector.

About the PM KISAN SCheme

  • The PM Kisan Scheme is specifically designed to provide farmers with financial aid to help them meet their agricultural and household expenses.
  • Launch:It is a central sector scheme (100 percent funding) launched in 2019
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
  • Eligibility: The scheme is eligible for all the landholding farmer families.
  • Exclusion: The following individuals are ineligible for benefits under the scheme:
    • Institutional landholders; Members holding constitutional posts; Serving or retired government employees; Pensioners receiving over ₹10,000; Income taxpayers; Professionals such as doctors and engineers
  • Features: 
    • Eligible farmer families will receive Rs 6,000 per annum in three equated instalments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) via Aadhaar-linked accounts every four months. 
    • Self-Registration: Farmers can register themselves using the PM Kisan portal or mobile app, making it easier for them to access benefits.
    • Support for Agricultural Expenses: The funds can be used by farmers for any agricultural-related expenses, whether for inputs, tools, or personal needs.

 

AnemiaPhone

Context: The Cornell University in a release has transferred their technology to assess  iron deficiency ie.  “AnemiaPhone” to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) at zero cost.

  • Objective: To integrate AnemiaPhone technology into its programmes for anaemia, women’s health, and maternal and child health throughout the country.

About AnemiaPhone

  • The technology comprise of a Test Strip that can be coupled with small, portable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled test strip readers
  • Tested At: It was tested at the Joan Klein Jacobs Center for Precision Nutrition and Health.
  • Working: The technology requires a small finger stick, a drop of blood on a test strip and a few minutes for the reader to assess.
    • The information is uploaded to a clinical database which can be interpreted by a healthcare workers providing guidance, triage and referral, or intervention on the spot.

About Anemia

  • Anaemia is a condition where there is a reduction in the hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, red blood-cell count or packed-cell volume below an established threshold.
    • Impact: The anaemic condition impairs the body’s ability to transport oxygen (from lungs to tissue) and carbon dioxide (from tissue to lungs)
  • Thresholds:  As per current WHO guidelines,
    • Children (aged 6–59 months) and Pregnant Women (aged 15–49 years): Hb concentration of <11 g/decilitre (g/dl) is considered anaemic
    • Non-Pregnant Women: Hb <12 g/dl 
    • Men (aged 15–49 years): Hb of <13 g/dl 
  • Burden: As per the National Family Health Survey 5 (2019-21) findings, 57% of women in the age group 15-49 and 67% children between six months and 59 months are anaemic 
  • Assessment: India will now assess anaemia through new Diet and Biomarkers Survey in India-I (comprehensive national-level dietary survey) to map diet, nutrition and health status
  • Cause: Anaemia is caused mainly by iron deficiency although deficiencies in folate, vitamins B12 and A are also important causes.
  • Symptoms: It can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath among others. 

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Anemia Mukt Bharat: It is being implemented to reduce anaemia among six beneficiaries age group through life cycle approach by  implementation of six interventions

  • Beneficiaries: Children (6-59 months), children (5-9 years), adolescents (10-19 years), pregnant and lactating women and in women of reproductive age group (15-49 years) 
  • Interventions: 
    • Prophylactic Iron Folic Acid Supplementation
    • Periodic deworming
    • Provision of Iron and Folic Acid fortified foods in government-funded health programmes.
    • Increase intake of iron-rich, protein-rich and vitamin C-rich foods; dietary diversification; food fortification
    • Promoting practice of delayed cord clamping.
    • Treatment of non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets, with special focus on malaria, haemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.
    • Testing and Treatment of anemia using digital methods

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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