A recent evaluation of the global progress toward the achievement (or not) of the Global Nutrition Targets (GNTs) was published in The Lancet. 

• The analysis provided estimates of progress at a regional and national level in 204 countries from 2012 to 2021, with projections up to 2050.
• In general, there appeared to be slow and insufficient progress across countries. 
• By 2030, it was projected that few countries (not India) would meet the targets for stunting, and none would meet low birthweight, anemia, and childhood obesity. 
• There is little progress in undernutrition, but an increase in overweight.

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About Public Health Nutrition

• Definition: Public health nutrition is the field of study that is concerned with promotion of good health through prevention of nutrition–related illnesses in the population, and the government policies and programmes that are aimed at solving these problems.
• It can also be described as the art and science of promoting health and preventing diseases, prolonging life, through the organised efforts/action of society.
• It integrates science, policy, and programs to address dietary deficiencies, excesses, and related health conditions, ensuring overall well-being.

Importance of Nutritional Security

• Foundation for Human Capital: Poor nutrition affects stunting in 35.5% of children under five in India (NFHS-5). 
  • Malnutrition costs India $10 billion annually in productivity losses (World Bank).

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• Improves Health Outcomes: Adequate nutrition reduces risks of diseases like anemia, affecting 57% of women of reproductive age (NFHS-5).
  • Example: Fortification of rice with iron in India’s PDS aims to address iron-deficiency anemia.
• Boosts Economic Growth: A well-nourished population increases workforce productivity by 20-30% (WHO).
  • Example: Vietnam reduced malnutrition by 20% in a decade, contributing to a 7% annual GDP growth.
• Strengthens Food Systems: Nutritional security diversifies agriculture to include nutrient-rich crops like millets.
  • Example: India declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, promoting their cultivation and consumption.
• Supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Targets SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

Current Nutritional Challenges in India

• Double Burden of Malnutrition: NFHS-5 (2019-21) shows 35.5% of children under 5 are stunted, and 22% of adults are overweight or obese.
  • High stunting rates are prevalent in states like Bihar (42.9%) and Uttar Pradesh (39.7%).
• Micronutrient Deficiencies (Hidden Hunger): 57% of women (15–49 years) and 67% of children (6–59 months) are anemic (NFHS-5).
  • The prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders persists in mountainous regions despite salt iodization programs.
• Poor Dietary Diversity: Only 11% of children aged 6-23 months receive an adequately diverse diet (NFHS-5).
  • States like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh report inadequate intake of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
• Impact of Food Inflation: Food inflation reached 11.5% in 2024, making nutritious food unaffordable for many.
  • Rising costs of pulses and edible oils limit their consumption among low-income households.
• Gender Inequality in Nutrition: Women and girls in rural areas often consume fewer calories and proteins than men due to cultural norms.

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India’s National Nutrition Policy (NNP)

• Adopted in 1993: Focuses on a multi-sectoral strategy combining health, food security, and education.
• Key Features:
  • Direct Interventions: Supplementary feeding, micronutrient fortification, and nutrition education.
  • Indirect Interventions: Improved food production, sanitation, and maternal care.
• Recent Updates:
  • POSHAN Abhiyaan (2018): Aims to reduce stunting, undernutrition, and anemia by 2-3% annually.
  • Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Expanded to include fortified foods and milk in schools.
• Result: Reduction in stunting by 3.4% from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5.

Way Forward

• Data-Driven Targeting: Use AI and geospatial mapping to identify malnutrition hotspots.
  • Example: Andhra Pradesh’s Real-Time Nutrition Monitoring System improved data collection and policy response.
• Fortification and Biofortification: Promote fortified staples like rice, wheat, and salt with micronutrients.
  • Example: Chhattisgarh’s fortified rice program reduced anemia by 6% in pilot districts.
• Behavior Change Campaigns: Conduct awareness drives to improve dietary diversity and hygiene.
  • Example: Gujarat’s Poshan Sakhi initiative trains women to educate households on balanced diets.
• Strengthen Localized Nutrition Programs: Tailor interventions to align with cultural practices and dietary preferences.
  • Example: Odisha’s MAMATA Scheme incentivizes mothers for antenatal and postnatal care.
• Enhance Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Collaborate with private sectors to develop affordable, nutrient-rich food products.
  • Example: Partnerships in Karnataka produce fortified snacks for school children.
• Others:
  • Provide supplements to address nutrient deficiencies like iron, vitamin A, and iodine.
  • Educational campaigns, improved healthcare access, sanitation, and community-based initiatives.
  • Ensuring affordability and availability of nutritious food, and government interventions to support low-income groups.

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Conclusion

India’s nutrition challenges are multifaceted, spanning undernutrition, overnutrition, and implementation inefficiencies. Addressing these requires holistic strategies, including localized interventions, community engagement, and leveraging technology. By combining global best practices with tailored local solutions, India can achieve its goals of improving public health nutrition and fostering sustainable development.

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National Youth Day is observed in India every year on January 12 to honour the ideals of Swami Vivekananda who was born on January 12, 1863, in Kolkata.

• 12th of January 2025 marks the 162nd  birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, and is celebrated as National Youth Day. 

About National Youth Day 2025

• Objective 
• • To involve youth in various activities and to promote spirit of service and volunteerism.
• It is hosted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, in partnership with one of the States or Union Territories (UTs).
• The theme for the NYF 2025 is “Youth for a Sustainable Future: Shaping the Nation with Resilience and Responsibility“.

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About Swami Vivekananda

• Initially his name was Narendra Nath Dutta, born on January 12, 1863, in Kolkata. 
• Swami Vivekananda was the chief disciple of 19th century mystic and yogi Ramakrishna Paramhansa.
• He founded the Ramakrishna Math in 1897, a monastic order based on his guru’s teachings in Kolkata and a worldwide spiritual movement known as the Ramakrishna Mission based on the ancient Hindu philosophy of Vedanta.
• Swami Vivekananda is considered one of the great Indian monks who enlightened the Western world about Hinduism. 
• As a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, he pushed for national integration in colonial India and is credited with reviving Hinduism in the nation.

Swami Vivekananda’s Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

• Showed an early interest in Western philosophy, history, religion, and spirituality. Swami Vivekananda was Well-read in various subjects and meditated in front of Hindu deities’ images.
• Met Ramakrishna Paramhansa, who became his Guru, and remained devoted to him until Ramakrishna’s death in 1886.
• Adopted the name ‘Vivekananda’ in 1893 at the request of Maharaja Ajit Singh of the Khetri State, changing from his previous name ‘Sachidananda.’
• Literary Works: Wrote books like Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga.
• Death: Passed away on July 4, 1902.

Contributions Of Swami Vivekananda 

Swami Vivekananda’s achievements left a lasting impact on society. He worked tirelessly to improve humanity, promote spiritual enlightenment, and cultivate harmony, social justice, and interfaith understanding.

• Introduction of Indian Philosophies: Swami Vivekananda played a crucial role in introducing the world to Indian philosophies, particularly Vedanta and Yoga. 
  • He preached a philosophy called “neo-Vedanta,” which provided an interpretation of Hinduism through a Western lens. 
  • Vivekananda believed in the harmony between spirituality and material progress.
• Emphasis on Education: Swami Vivekananda laid significant emphasis on education as a means of regenerating India. 
  • He advocated for a holistic and character-building education system that aimed at shaping individuals to become self-reliant and morally upright.
• World Parliament of Religions: Swami Vivekananda gained global recognition for his remarkable speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.
  • He introduced Hinduism to America and called for religious tolerance and an end to fanaticism at the Parliament.
  • His address highlighted the universality of religions, emphasizing the need for religious tolerance, harmony, and the unity of humanity.
• Pathways to Liberation: In his books, Swami Vivekananda expounded on the four paths to attaining liberation (moksha) from worldly attachments and pleasures: 
  • Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga. 
  • He provided practical insights into these paths to guide individuals on their spiritual journeys.
• Influence on Modern India: Swami Vivekananda’s ideas and teachings deeply influenced modern India. 
  • Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose referred to him as the “maker of modern India.” 
  • Vivekananda’s emphasis on self-confidence, national pride, and spirituality instilled a sense of purpose and revitalized the nation.

Associated Organizations of Swami Vivekananda

• Ramakrishna Mission: As the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Swami Vivekananda established the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897. 
  • This organization focuses on value-based education, cultural preservation, healthcare, women’s empowerment, youth and tribal welfare, and relief and rehabilitation efforts.
• Belur Math: In 1899, Swami Vivekananda established Belur Math as his permanent abode. 
  • Belur Math serves as the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, providing a spiritual sanctuary and a hub for disseminating Vivekananda’s teachings.
• Advaita Ashrama: Swami Vivekananda founded the Advaita Ashrama in Mayavati, Uttarakhand, to encourage the study and practice of Advaita Vedanta philosophy. 
  • The ashrama concentrates on book printing and distribution, spiritual retreats, and educational and healthcare initiatives.
• Vedanta Society: Swami Vivekananda inspired the establishment of Vedanta Societies in the United States and other regions of the world. 
  • These organizations endeavor to improve their understanding of Vedanta philosophy and to provide a forum for spiritual seekers to investigate its teachings.
• Bharat Sevashram Sangha: Swami Vivekananda encouraged the formation of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha, despite the fact that it was not created by him. 
  • This group places an emphasis on altruistic service to humanity, addressing societal issues through educational, medical, and relief efforts.

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Government Initiatives and Schemes For Youths

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Kerala’s Kappad and Chal beaches, located in Kozhikode and Kannur districts, have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification.

About Blue Flag Certification

• Definition: The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized eco-label that can be awarded to beaches, marinas, or sustainable boating tourism operators as a mark of their environmental excellence.
• Certification Authority:
  • It is granted by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
  • Established in 1985, the certification promotes sustainable development at coastal sites.
• Eligibility and Criteria: The certification is awarded annually to beaches and marinas in FEE member countries.
  • To qualify, sites must meet 33 stringent criteria grouped into four major categories:
    • Environmental Education and Information
    • Bathing Water Quality
    • Environmental Management
    • Conservation and Safety Services
• International Jury: The decision to award Blue Flag status is made by an international jury, which includes representatives from:
  • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
  • United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
  • Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)
  • International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
• Global Reach:
  • Over 4,000 beaches worldwide hold Blue Flag certification.
  • Spain leads with 729 certified sites, followed by Greece.
• India’s Blue Flag Beaches: India has 13 Blue Flag beaches, including Kappad and Chal, showcasing its commitment to eco-friendly coastal management.
• Annual Updates: The certification is updated every year, and sites must consistently meet the criteria to retain their status.
• India has introduced its own eco-label called BEAMS , modeled on the Blue Flag certification.

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About BEAMS (Beach Environment & Aesthetic Management Services)

• Objective
  • To develop world-class facilities at Indian beaches while ensuring environmental sustainability.
  • To promote beach cleanliness, conservation, and sustainable tourism in line with global standards.
• Launch and Implementation
  • BEAMS was launched under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
  • It aims to make beaches environmentally friendly and ensure compliance with safety standards and public amenities.
• Key Features
  • Focuses on reducing pollution, conserving coastal ecosystems, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of beaches.
  • Supports local communities by creating employment opportunities in beach management and eco-tourism.
  • Promotes the use of green technologies and renewable energy in beach infrastructure development.

Blue Flag Beaches of India

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The International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) has launched its first Silver Notice, a pilot initiative to trace and recover assets laundered across international borders.

About the First Silver Notice

• The Notice, requested by Italy, seeks information on the assets belonging to a senior member of the mafia.

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About Silver Notice

• New Addition to Alert System: The Silver Notice is the latest addition to Interpol’s colour-coded alert system, aimed at enhancing global cooperation in combating financial crimes.
• Purpose: The notice assists member countries in identifying, locating, and recovering criminally obtained assets. These assets may include:
  • Properties
  • Vehicles
  • Financial accounts
  • Businesses
• Scope of Criminal Activities: Silver Notices are particularly useful in cases linked to:
  • Fraud
  • Corruption
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Environmental Crimes
• Pilot Phase: The pilot program for the Silver Notice will run until November 2025, during which its effectiveness and operational feasibility will be evaluated.
  • The pilot project involves 52 countries, including India.

How Does It Work?

• Requesting Information: Member countries can request details about assets suspected to be linked to criminal activities.
  • These requests facilitate the tracing of cross-border transactions and properties associated with crimes.
• Identification and Action: The Silver Notice helps locate such assets, enabling member countries to take legal actions like:
  • Seizure
  • Confiscation
• Actions are taken in compliance with each country’s national laws.
• General Secretariat Review: Before issuance, the Interpol General Secretariat thoroughly reviews each notice to ensure it:
  • Complies with Interpol’s organisational rules.
  • Prevents misuse for political or unlawful purposes.

Significance of Silver Notice

• Global Financial Crime Control: The Silver Notice strengthens international efforts to combat money laundering and other financial crimes.
• Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation: Under Silver Notice, Countries may subsequently use information received by issuing the notice  as a basis for bilateral engagement, including bilateral requests for seizure, confiscation or recovery of assets, subject to national laws
• Enhanced Cooperation: By involving 52 countries, the initiative fosters stronger cooperation among member nations in recovering criminal assets.

About International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL)

• Purpose: Facilitates international police cooperation to combat cross-border crimes like terrorism, trafficking, and organized crime.
• Establishment Year: 1923.
• Member: 196 member countries.
  • India’s Membership: India has been a member since 1956.
• Status: Independent international organization, not part of the United Nations system.
• Headquarters: Located in Lyon, France.
• Official Languages: Arabic, English, French, and Spanish.
• Role in Investigations: Acts as the first point of contact for international investigations but does not actively investigate crimes.
• Communication System: Member countries are connected through Interpol’s communication system, I-24/7, facilitating real-time contact and access to Interpol’s databases.
• Databases: Interpol manages 19 databases containing information on crimes and criminals, accessible to member countries.

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Types of Notices

• 9 types of notices ( 8 of which are colour-coded):  In the form of alerts/requests allowing police in member countries to share critical crime-related information.
• These notices are issued by the Interpol’s General Secretariat at the request of a member country’s Interpol National Central Bureau, and are made available for all member countries

Organizational Structure Of INTERPOL

• General Assembly:
  • Supreme decision-making body with one delegate from each member country.
  • Decisions are taken during annual meetings.
• General Secretariat:
  • Operates under a Secretary General, who manages day-to-day operations.
  • Secretary General’s Term: Five years, appointed by the General Assembly.
• Executive Committee:
  • It has 13 members, each representing a different region.
  • Oversees the implementation of General Assembly decisions and supervises the work of the Secretary General.
• National Central Bureau (NCB):
  • Each member country has an NCB, acting as the central point of contact with INTERPOL and other NCBs globally.
  • NCBs are managed by police officials and are typically housed in the government ministry responsible for policing (in India’s case, the Union Home Ministry).
  • In India, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) serves as the NCB.

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Recent estimates from the State Health Department indicate that MMR in Kerala has increased to 32 in 2024-25.

• This spike is not due to a rise in maternal deaths but a significant decline in live births, resulting in a higher ratio.

What is the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)?

• Definition: MMR refers to the number of maternal deaths per 1,00,000 live births due to pregnancy or childbirth-related complications.
• Global and National Targets:
  • WHO Global Target: Reduce MMR to less than 70 per 1,00,000 live births by 2030 under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • India’s National Target: Reduce MMR to below 70 by 2030. 
    • Kerala aims to reduce its MMR to 20 by 2030.
• Current Statistics:
  • India’s MMR stands at 97 (SRS 2018-20), significantly higher than Kerala’s figure of 19.

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Factors Contributing to Rising MMR in Kerala

Declining Fertility Rates: Kerala’s TFR dropped below replacement levels in 1991 and is now at 1.46 (2021).

• Couples in Kerala increasingly prefer fewer or no children, driven by societal, economic, and lifestyle changes.
• Kerala’s annual live births have plummeted from 5 — 5.5 lakh in the 1980s to an all-time low of 3.93 lakh in 2023.
  • The Total Fertility Rate (TFR), now at 1.46 (2021), has contributed significantly to this trend.
• Impact of COVID-19: During the pandemic (2020-21), COVID-19-related maternal deaths temporarily increased the State’s MMR.
• Demographic Transition: Kerala attained replacement-level fertility (2.1) in 1987-88 and has maintained a sub-replacement fertility rate for decades. This demographic shift has far-reaching implications on MMR trends.
• Shrinking Population of Women of Reproductive Age: The female population in the reproductive age group (15–49 years) has steadily declined.
  • From 93.32 lakh (2011 Census) to a projected 92.23 lakh (2021).

• The new cohort of women exhibits lower fertility, either by choice or natural decline, contributing to fewer live births.
• Delayed Marriages and Childbearing: Rising age at marriage and delayed pregnancies have led to an increase in older mothers, who are more prone to pregnancy-related complications.
• Immigration Trends: A significant proportion of the reproductive-age population migrates abroad for education or work, choosing to settle and have children in other countries.
• Impact of Demographic Transition: Kerala’s rapid demographic transition has resulted in an aging population, with the elderly soon expected to outnumber children.
  • This shift places a growing burden on healthcare resources and policies.
• Data Discrepancies: Concerns have been raised regarding delays in birth registration and potential underreporting of live births.
• Lack of Data on Abortions: The absence of abortion statistics hampers a comprehensive understanding of declining live births and its impact on MMR.

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Addressing Rising MMR in Kerala

• Strengthening Maternal Health Programs: Focus on high-risk pregnancies and older mothers to mitigate complications.Improve access to prenatal and postnatal care, especially in rural areas.
• Accurate Data Collection: Ensure timely registration of live births and maternal deaths. Conduct studies to analyze the impact of abortion and migration on live births.
• Raising Awareness: Promote education on the health risks of delayed pregnancies and the importance of institutional deliveries.
• Policies to Support Fertility: Encourage work-life balance policies to support young families. Introduce incentives for early marriages and childbearing.
• Preparing for an Aging Population: Develop infrastructure and policies to address the needs of the growing elderly population. Promote intergenerational care systems to balance societal dynamics.

Government Initiatives to Reduce Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)

• Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan: To improve the quality and coverage of diagnostics and counseling services, along with providing assured comprehensive and quality antenatal care free of cost.
• POSHAN Abhiyaan: Pregnant Women are one of the key  target groups of the government’s flagship programme to improve nutritional outcomes.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): It is a direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme under which cash benefits are provided to pregnant women in their bank account directly to meet enhanced nutritional needs and partially compensate for wage loss.
• Surakshit Matritva Anushasan (SUMAN):  It aims to provide assured, dignified and respectful delivery of quality healthcare services at no cost and zero tolerance of denial of services to any women and newborn in any public health facility.
• Labour Room & Quality Improvement Initiative (LaQshya): Providing a positive birthing experience to pregnant women by improving the  quality of care in labor room, maternity Operation Theatre and Obstetrics Intensive Care Units (ICUs) & High Dependency Units (HDUs)
• Rise in Institutional deliveries: As of 2020-21, institutional deliveries in India have risen to 95.5%, with approximately 94% occurring in rural areas and 98% in urban regions. 
  • This marks a significant improvement from 2019-2021, when institutional deliveries accounted for 88.6% of births nationwide. 
  • The increase reflects the success of initiatives aimed at promoting safer childbirth practices across the country.
• Steps to promote institutional deliveries: operationalisation of Sub-Centres, Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres and District Hospitals for providing 24×7 basic and comprehensive obstetric care.
• Training in obstetric care: Capacity building of healthcare providers in basic and comprehensive obstetric care to enable them to provide high quality services during childbirth.

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Wildfires have ravaged multiple parts of Los Angeles in California affecting nearly 180,000 residents.

• At least five gigantic fires were burning to the north, east, and west of the Los Angeles area.

About the Los Angeles Wildfires

• Area: The fires have consumed about 56 square miles (145 square km), an area larger than San Francisco
• Start: The fire started in Palisades located on the Pacific Ocean affecting at least 19,978 hectares (49,367 acres) and spreading rapidly to other neighbourhoods.
  • Other Affected Areas: Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, Kennet
• Cause: The Wildfires are attributed to a number of reasons,
  • Drought Conditions: The winters of 2022 and 2023 saw unusual rains followed by the driest start to the winter season in 2024 leading to a build up of dry, combustible  vegetation.
  • Strong Santa Ana Winds: The prevailing strong Santa Ana winds made the flames get bigger and spread faster across Los Angeles devouring the kindling of dry vegetation, power cables, wooden houses built to withstand earthquakes, etc.
    • Santa Ana winds are a natural part of California’s climate pattern, and usually blow from October to January.
  • Climate Change: California experienced its hottest ever June and July, and the second hottest October in 2024 with the second driest spell in the region in 150 years.
    • The excessive heat and absence of rain had already turned the vegetation very dry when the Santa Ana began to blow.

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About Wildfires

• A wildfire, forest fire, or a bushfire is an unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable fire in an area of combustible vegetation.
• Types: Wildfires can burn in vegetation located both in and above the soil.
  • Ground Fires: It typically ignites in soil thick with organic matter feeding the flames, like plant roots. These flames can burn for an entire season until conditions are right for them to grow to a surface or crown fire.
  • Surface Fires: They burn in dead or dry vegetation that is lying or growing just above the ground. Parched grass or fallen leaves often fuel surface fires. 
  • Crown Fires: They burn in the leaves and canopies of trees and shrubs.
• Cause: 
  • Natural: Natural events like lightning strikes or spontaneous ignition aided by strong and dry wind conditions can cause wildfires
  • Human Activities: Wildfires can also be started by human activities, such as debris burning, vehicle fires, cigarette butts, or campfires, breaking of power lines and other electrical equipment etc.
• Pre-Requisite: Wildfires need 3 main factors to fuel, 
  • Dry fuel such as leaves, grass, branches, and other organic materials
  • Oxygen in the air
  • Heat to ignite and burn

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There’s growing speculation that large language models (LLMs) are nearing their limit in terms of scaling and effectiveness.

• It caused Shift in Focus (2024) and encouraged researchers to begin exploring smaller models as the gains from scaling large models started diminishing.

What are Small Language Models (SLMs)?

• It is type of artificial intelligence model designed to process, understand, and generate natural language content
• SLMs are affordable and accessible, allowing smaller organizations to benefit from NLP without the heavy demands of LLMs.
• The term “small” in the small language model  shows this model has fewer parameters (millions to a few billion) compared to large models (hundreds of billions). 
• Examples of Small Models:
  • Mistral AI: Focuses on small, efficient models for specialized applications.
  • Phi by Microsoft: A family of small models, including the Phi-3-mini with 3.8 billion parameters.
  • Apple Intelligence: Used in iPhones and iPads, delivering good performance for common tasks without needing a large model.

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Key Features of Small Language Models (SLMs)

• Efficiency : They use less computational power and memory, making them suitable for environments with limited resources, like mobile devices and edge computing.
• Customization-Friendly : SLMs can be easily adapted or fine-tuned for specific tasks, improving accuracy in specialized areas.
• Faster Processing : Due to their smaller size, SLMs offer quicker response times, which is crucial for real-time applications like chatbots or voice assistants.

Difference between SLM and LLM

Relevance of Smaller AI Models for India

• Cost-Effective
  • Smaller AI models are affordable to train and deploy, making them accessible for Indian businesses, startups, and organizations with limited resources.
• Energy Efficient
  • As India faces energy constraints, smaller AI models, which require less power, align with the country’s need for sustainable technology solutions.
• Adaptability to Local Needs
  • Smaller models can be fine-tuned to address specific challenges in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and government services, improving their relevance and impact in India.
• Boosting Innovation in MSMEs
  • Smaller models support the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by enabling them to integrate AI into their operations without significant financial investments.
• Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
  • Smaller AI models can be designed to focus on regional languages and cultural contexts, promoting inclusivity and improving accessibility across diverse communities in India.

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Limitations

• Accuracy: Small models are trained on limited data models which can cause less accuracy in the model’s output than LLM. 
• Limited efficiency: SLM can not handle complex tasks with deep understanding. 
• Updates: SLM may need constant updates and retraining as new data becomes available which can be tedious and time consuming. 
• Privacy concern; Apart from accuracy issues, this model poses more risks to data breaches and security risks.  

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Meta has replaced its independent fact-checking program in the US with a crowdsourced Community Notes system, drawing inspiration from X (formerly Twitter). 

• Platforms Affected: The change will be implemented on Facebook and Instagram.

Reasons Behind Meta’s Decision to End Fact-Checking

• Concerns About Bias
  • Meta believed that fact-checkers had their own biases, influencing their decisions on what to review and how to evaluate content.
• Political Pressure
  • The company faced significant political pressure from new administrations and their supporters, impacting its content moderation strategies.
• Loss of Trust
  • Meta felt the fact-checking program in the US eroded trust among users rather than building it.
• Focus on Free Speech
  • The decision aligns with Meta’s shift toward promoting free speech by simplifying content policies and removing restrictions on certain topics.
• Transition to Community-Driven Model
  • By introducing “Community Notes,” Meta aims to involve users in evaluating content, addressing these issues in a more inclusive and participatory way.

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What Are Community Notes?

• Community Notes allow users to add factual context to posts.
• Originally introduced as “Birdwatch” on Twitter in 2021.
  • Later, it was rebranded and expanded to 44 countries under Elon Musk’s ownership.
• This note shows up below  a post when enough contributors vote for the context citing it as helpful. 
• How does it work?
  • Users add context to posts that may be misleading or lack information.
  • Notes appear under posts as “Readers added context” with supporting sources.
  • Other users can vote on whether the added note is helpful or not.
• Eligibility for Contributors:
• • Account older than six months.
  • Verified phone number.
  • No rule violations.
  • Community note gives protection to the contributors in the form of auto-generated aliases to avoid them from being identified and targeted. 

Challenges of Community Notes

• Risk of Manipulation: Crowdsourced systems are vulnerable to coordinated attempts to promote specific narratives.
• Community Notes may fail to stop misinformation from spreading to other platforms.
• Nuanced political content may be harder to fact-check through a crowdsourced approach.
• Bias: There’s a risk of bias if the contributors do not represent a diverse range of perspectives
• Low-Quality Contributions: The system can be overwhelmed by spammy or low-quality notes, affecting its overall effectiveness.

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Two recent reports released  have estimated that India’s poverty fell down to below 5 per cent in 2023-24.

About The Reports

• State Bank of India (SBI) Report: 
  • Methodology: The SBI team has used household expenditure distribution based on the latest 2023-24 survey using the modified mixed reference period (MMRP). 
  • National Poverty rates are now between 4-4.5% nationally,
    • 4.86% for rural areas and 4.09% for urban areas in FY24.
  • Poverty Line: The poverty line stands at Rs 1,632 for rural areas and Rs 1,944 for urban areas
    • It is adjusted for decadal inflation and the imputation factor in the poverty line set by the Suresh Tendulkar Committee in 2011.
  • Decline in Rural- Urban Gap: A decline Urban- Rural gap has been observed.
    • It is attributed to the identified urban areas in the survey in 2023-24 remaining the same as in 2011-12. 
  • Added Dimensions: 
    • Three monthly visits to households, instead of one, to collect the data. 
    • Free Provisions Included: Free provision of items like laptop/personal computers, tablet, mobile handset, bicycle, motorcycle/scooty, clothing (school uniform), footwear (school shoes, etc), besides free food items are  included.
• Household Consumption Expenditure Survey:
  • Methodology: HCES uses a modified mixed reference period (MMRP) method.
    • Recall Period: The recall period for expenditure on items,
      • Edible Items: For oil, egg, meat, milk, vegetables and fruits, recall period is ‘last 7 days’. 
      • For items like clothing, bedding, footwear, education, durable goods and medical, it is ‘last 365 days’.
      • Other Items: The recall period is ‘last 30 days’.
  • Rural Poverty: It dropped to 4.86% in FY24, a sharp decline from 7.2% in FY23 and 25.7% in FY12.
  • Urban Poverty: It saw a fall to 4.09% in FY24, down from 4.6% in FY23 and 13.7% in FY12.
• Cause of Decline: Rural poverty declined due to,
  • Higher consumption growth among the bottom 5% of the population. 
  • Rural Mobility: Improvement in physical infrastructure leading to increased rural mobility shrinking both horizontal (between rural and urban) and the vertical income gap (within rural income classes)
  • Endogenous Rural Expenditure: Around 30 per cent of the rural monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) are endogenous to the rural ecosystem due to initiatives like DBT transfers,augmenting farmer’s income, improving the rural livelihood significantly
• Shortcoming in Estimation:
  • Destitutional Line: The SBI report is based on the Tendulkar poverty line which is said to be flawed as it does not account for changes in the consumption basket of households ending up using a very low poverty line to obtain a lower estimate of poverty
    • The poverty lines used for 2023-24 in the SBI report amount to just Rs 55 per day in rural areas and Rs 65 per day for urban areas. 
  • Sampling Changes: Disproportionate representation has been provided to affluent sections of the society resulting in recording of higher consumption expenditure distorting the estimates
    • Example: The second stage stratum classification is now made on the basis of land for rural areas and car ownership for urban areas unlike previous exercises where the divisions were made based on household status and household activity for rural areas and monthly per-capita income for urban areas.
  • The Unemployment Picture: Falling job growth and real wages with higher inflation will practically lead to increase in poverty.
    • Approximately 190 million workers (2021-22) in India are earning just up to Rs 100 per day (in real terms at 2010 prices) which can be categorised as “absolutely poor”compared to just 106.1 million workers in 2011-12.
  • Fairness: The Poverty estimates using outdated norms and not accounting for the  changes in consumption basket and the difference in the methodology of earlier consumption surveys and current HCES does not exude confidence in the fairness of the process. 
  • Rural Poverty Underestimated: Rural poverty is likely to be higher than estimated if the  urbanised parts of rural areas or the potential ‘census towns’ have been included in the urban frame of HCES.
  • Comparison Difficulties: Bringing changes in dimensions and methodologies will severely impact comparisons with the past surveys. 
    • Example: The MMRP 2022-23 and 2023-24 method estimates higher household expenditure while the MRP data, available for the estimate of 2011-12 uses  a markedly lower poverty line.

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To mark 75 years of the Republic of India, invitees to the Rashtrapati Bhavan’s “At home” reception will receive a curated box of GI-tagged crafts from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, highlighting the region’s rich heritage under the “One District One Product” scheme..

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Key Highlights of the Initiative

• Concept and Execution: The idea was proposed by President Murmu and executed by Rashtrapati Bhavan in collaboration with the National Institute of Design (NID), with support from its campuses in Ahmedabad and Bengaluru.
  • Represents India’s 5,000-year civilisational history and carries the message of sustainability.
• Craft Items and Significance:
• • Bamboo Weave Box with Kalamkari Painting: Crafted by Nimmalakunta artisans from Andhra Pradesh.
  • Ikat-Pochampalli Cover: Reusable cover showcasing Telangana’s famed textile craft.
  • Mysore’s Ganjifa Art Fridge Magnet: Inspired by traditional Ganjifa playing cards of Karnataka.
  • Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch: Handwoven pouch from Tamil Nadu.
  • Etikoppaka Dolls: Male and female wooden dolls crafted by Andhra Pradesh artisans.
  • Screwpine Bookmark: Woven by artists from Kerala using traditional screwpine leaves.
• Geographical Indication (GI) Products:
  • All craft items in the box are GI-tagged, highlighting India’s diverse and unique heritage.
  • Linked to the “One District One Product” scheme.

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Inclusion and Symbolism is Invitation

• Themes Represented: The artefacts embody the themes of sustainability, inclusivity, and the rich cultural heritage of the five southern States.
  • The colour scheme symbolizes the 75 years of the Republic.
• Special Invitees: The reception will include:
  • ‘Drone Didis’: Women pioneers in technology and drone operations.
  • Women Achievers: Notable women making significant contributions in various fields.
  • Natural Farming Agriculturists: Farmers promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices.
  • People with Disabilities: Recognized for their achievements and contributions.

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Gen Beta

Context: Children born on and after January 1, 2025, will now be termed as Generation Beta marking a generational shift

• Gen Beta will comprise of the children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2039
• Gen Beta succeeds Generation Alpha (iPad Generation), with its members born between 2010 and 2024.
• It is predicted that Gen Beta will be ‘more globally minded, community-focused, and collaborative’, but will seek to define their individual identities in a world of hyper-connectivity.

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What is a Generation?

• A generation refers to a group of people born around the same time period who have experienced a common historical event and may have similar value systems.
• The term was popularised by Karl Mannheim in his paper “The Problem of Generations” in 1928.
• Naming: The past generations were grouped in periods of 15-20 years and were named after defining societal events 
  • The trend has changed and now follows the Greek Alphabet with the children born between 2010 and 2024 termed as Gen Alpha. 
• Past Generations:
  • Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964): This generation was born after World War II and the period of decolonisation and thus is named after the post-war baby boom. 
    • Considering the surge in optimism, this generation is usually associated with idealism and a mistrust of authority
  • Gen X (1964 – 1979): This generation is named after their anti-establishmentarian mindset with the X representing a mistrust of the establishment.
    • This generation is diverse and is patterned on a rich, vibrant democracy, comfortable with many views, perspectives, and voices.
  • Gen Y or the Millennials (1980 – 1995): The children born in this generation became adults at the turn of the millennium. This generation is tech-savvy compared to their predecessors while also being socially conscious. 
  • Gen Z (1996 – 2010): Gen Z or the Zoomers today constitute the younger adults and is the first generation to be truly plugged in and grow up as digital natives 
    • This is the generation that has normalised talk of mental health concerns and advocated for social and environmental causes.
  • Gen Alpha (2011 – 2024): This is the first generation to be born entirely in the 21st century and is the most tech-savvy generation with  heightened awareness of its environment and of mental health challenges.

Indian Navy Receives 6th Scorpene-Class Submarine

Context: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, handed over the sixth Scorpene submarine, Vaghsheer, to the Indian Navy under Project P-75.

• The six submarines under Project P-75 include Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, Vagir, and now Vaghsheer.

About Vaghsheer

• INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine.
  • It is delivered to the Indian Navy under Project P-75.
  • Key Features of Vaghsheer
    • Stealth Technology: Advanced technology ensures superior stealth capabilities.
    • Precision Attacks: Equipped to launch guided weapon attacks with torpedoes and tube-launched anti-ship missiles.
    • Versatile Operations: Can perform multiple missions, such as:
      • Anti-Surface Warfare
      • Anti-Submarine Warfare
      • Area Surveillance

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What are Scorpene Submarines?

• It is a type of diesel-electric attack submarine.
• Objective: It aims to increase maritime defense capabilities. 

Project P-75

• Project P-75 is an initiative by the Indian Navy to procure six diesel-electric attack submarines
• Equipped with advanced weapons, sensors, modern missiles, and countermeasure systems.
• Six Submarines are:
• • INS Kalvari (commissioned in 2017)
  • INS Khanderi (commissioned in 2019)
  • INS Karanj (commissioned in 2021)
  • INS Vela (commissioned in 2021)
  • INS Vagir (commissioned in January 2023)
  • INS Vaghsheer (delivered in 2024 after sea trials in 2023)

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