The competitive disruptions of Parliament by both the Opposition and the Treasury benches, made the recently-concluded winter session of the legislature a travesty. 

About Parliamentary Disruption

• Parliamentary disruptions refer to actions that obstruct legislative proceedings, such as shouting slogans, entering the well of the House, and showing placards. 
• Legitimate protests like walkouts do not fall under disruptions. 
• These have become increasingly common in Indian Parliament, affecting legislative efficiency and democratic processes​.

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Key Statistics on Disruptions 

17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024)

• Sittings and Productivity: The 17th Lok Sabha held 274 sittings, averaging 55 days per year—the lowest in parliamentary history. 
  • It functioned for 88% of its scheduled time, while the Rajya Sabha worked for 73%.
• Disruptions and Suspensions: There were 206 instances of MPs being suspended across both Houses due to serious misconduct. 
  • In the Winter Session of 2023 alone, 146 MPs faced suspension.
• Question Hour: Question Hour functioned for 60% of its scheduled time in the Lok Sabha and 52% in the Rajya Sabha. 
  • Only 24% of questions listed for oral responses were answered by ministers in the Lok Sabha, and 31% in the Rajya Sabha.
• Legislative Business: Approximately 58% of bills were passed within two weeks of introduction, with 35% discussed for less than an hour in the Lok Sabha. 
  • Notably, 80% of the budget was passed without discussion, with the entire budget for 2023 approved without any debate.

18th Lok Sabha (2024-Present)

• Winter Session 2024: The Lok Sabha functioned for only 52% of its scheduled time, while the Rajya Sabha operated at 39%, both experiencing frequent disruptions. 
  • Question Hour did not function for 15 out of 19 days in the Rajya Sabha and for more than 10 minutes on 12 out of 20 days in the Lok Sabha, undermining legislative scrutiny.
• Legislative Output: Only one bill, the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, was passed from parliament during this session, marking the lowest legislative productivity in the last six Lok Sabha terms. 
  • Additionally, no private members’ business was conducted in the Lok Sabha due to disruptions.
• Deputy Speaker Vacancy: The 18th Lok Sabha continued without electing a Deputy Speaker since 2019, violating constitutional mandates for timely appointments.

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Reasons for disruptions

• Discussion on matters of controversy and public importance: Intense ideological and political differences between ruling and opposition parties often lead to confrontations.
  • Disruptions over the Adani Group allegations in the Winter Session 2024.
• Rushed Legislation: Over 35% of bills introduced in the 17th Lok Sabha were passed in less than an hour of debate.
  • The Farm Laws were repealed in November 2021 without a detailed discussion, reflecting a trend of hurried decision-making.
• Ruling Party Evading Responsibility: Disruptions can sometimes be tactically advantageous for the ruling party to avoid addressing contentious questions or policy failures.
  • Question Hour during the Monsoon Session 2023 was frequently disrupted, limiting scrutiny of government actions.
• Reduced Number of Sittings: Parliament’s average annual sitting days down to 55 in the 17th Lok Sabha, compared to 120-140 days in the 1950s.
  • The monsoon and winter sessions have increasingly shorter durations, limiting time for meaningful debate.
• Limited Role of Opposition: Opposition MPs were suspended en masse during the Winter Session 2024, further polarizing parliamentary proceedings.
  • Without adequate time or space for dissent, debates devolve into confrontations.
• Weak Enforcement of Rules: Despite persistent disruptions, rule enforcement remains inadequate. 
  • For example, despite multiple suspensions in Winter Session 2024, disruptions continued unabated, undermining parliamentary discipline.
• Dominance of Executive Over Legislature: The Prime Minister rarely attends parliamentary debates, unlike earlier practices, reflecting a declining emphasis on deliberative discussions.
  • Bills are frequently passed without thorough debate, as seen with the hurried approval of critical amendments.
• Party Loyalty and Whip System: MPs disrupt proceedings under party instructions, reflecting collective political strategies.
  • Coordinated disruptions by opposition MPs over GST issues.
• Electoral Influence: Approaching elections can incentivize MPs to disrupt proceedings as a strategy to gain public attention and connect with voters.
  • Politicians raising state-specific issues or staging protests on the floor of the House to highlight their stance ahead of elections.

Role of the Presiding Officer in Case of Disruptions

• Maintaining Order: The Presiding Officer (Speaker in Lok Sabha, Chairman in Rajya Sabha) is responsible for ensuring orderly conduct during proceedings.
  • The Speaker can call for the withdrawal of unruly MPs to restore decorum in the House.
• Authority to Suspend Members: The Presiding Officer can suspend MPs for persistent disruption under the rules of the House.
  • Rule 374A of the Lok Sabha allows the Speaker to suspend members for five consecutive sittings or the remainder of the session if they cause grave disorder by entering the well of the House or shouting slogans.
• Power to Adjourn the House: When disruptions become uncontrollable, the Presiding Officer may adjourn proceedings temporarily or for the entire day.
  • During the Winter Session 2024, multiple adjournments were declared by the Speaker due to protests over the Adani Group allegations.
• Role in Mediating Disputes: The Presiding Officer acts as a mediator between opposing parties to resolve conflicts and resume proceedings.
  • The Speaker often holds discussions with party leaders to reach a consensus on contentious issues.
• Implementing Codes of Conduct: The Presiding Officer ensures adherence to the parliamentary code of conduct and etiquette.
  • MPs are directed not to obstruct proceedings, shout slogans, or enter the well of the House.
• Enforcing Rules of Procedure: The Presiding Officer interprets and enforces rules to handle disruptions effectively.
  • Points of order raised by MPs during disruptions are addressed based on established parliamentary procedures.
• Promoting Bipartisanship: The Presiding Officer encourages bipartisan dialogue to facilitate meaningful debates and discussions.
  • Convening all-party meetings to resolve deadlocks and ensure smooth functioning of the House.

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Impact on Democracy

• Erosion of Public Trust: Frequent disruptions and inefficiencies in parliamentary proceedings have led to diminished public confidence in the institution. 
  • Social media often criticizes Parliament for prioritizing partisan theatrics over meaningful debates, alienating citizens from democratic processes.
• Decline in Legislative Quality: Rushed legislation without thorough debates compromises the quality of laws. 
  • Over 35% of bills in the 17th Lok Sabha were passed in less than an hour, undermining the scrutiny essential for effective governance.
• Declining Productivity of Lagislatures: The Budget Session 2024 recorded only 45% productivity in the Lok Sabha and 31% in the Rajya Sabha.
  • Key legislation and discussions on national issues were postponed or passed without adequate debate.
• Weakening of Accountability: Disruptions during Question Hour limit the opportunity for MPs to hold the government accountable.
  • In the Monsoon Session 2023, Question Hour functioned for less than 15 minutes on several days, leaving critical governance issues unaddressed.
• Wastage: Each minute of parliamentary proceedings costs approximately ₹2.5 lakh.
  • The Winter Session 2024 disruptions led to over ₹90 crore in losses due to unproductive hours.
• Polarization of Politics: The limited role of the opposition and frequent confrontations in Parliament deepen political divides. 
  • Mass suspensions of opposition MPs in the Winter Session 2024 created a hostile environment, reducing the scope for collaborative policymaking.
• Executive Dominance: The increasing tendency to bypass parliamentary debates undermines the legislature’s role as a check on executive power.
  • The hurried repeal of the Farm Laws in November 2021 highlighted the dominance of the executive over legislative deliberation.
• Disengagement of Citizens: The perception of inefficiency and theatrics in Parliament dissuades public engagement with democratic institutions.
  • Reduced voter enthusiasm and declining trust in elected representatives can weaken the democratic fabric in the long term.

Comparisons with Other Parliaments of the World

• Number of Sitting Days
  • United Kingdom: The UK Parliament sits for over 170 days a year, with structured debates on opposition and government business.
  • Canada: The Canadian Parliament meets for around 127 days annually, including specific days for opposition-led discussions.
• Role of Opposition
  • United Kingdom: The main opposition party gets 20 days annually to decide the parliamentary agenda, fostering more constructive engagement.
  • Canada: Opposition parties are allocated “Opposition Days” to set the agenda and debate key issues.
• Debates and Deliberations
  • Germany: The Bundestag (Parliament) emphasizes detailed and transparent debates, often broadcast live to engage citizens.
• Legislative Productivity
  • United States: The U.S. Congress uses committees extensively to deliberate on bills before introducing them on the floor, ensuring robust scrutiny.
• Question Hour
  • Australia: The Australian Parliament dedicates “Question Time,” ensuring ministers answer questions directly from MPs, promoting transparency.
• Enforcement of Discipline
  • United Kingdom: MPs engaging in disorderly conduct are quickly suspended or reprimanded by the Speaker.
• Citizen Engagement
  • South Africa: The National Assembly uses digital platforms to engage citizens directly and promotes transparency in legislative processes.

Way Forward

• Structural Reforms: Increasing the number of parliamentary working days to ensure sufficient time for debates and discussions is essential. 
  • A fixed annual calendar for sessions should be announced to prevent ad hoc curtailments​.
• Legislative Reforms: Strictly enforce parliamentary rules, including suspension of MPs for unruly behavior and disruptions.
  • Rules should guarantee the discussion of motions supported by a certain percentage of MPs.
  • Inadequate enforcement leads to repeated disruptions; adopting practices from the UK and Australia can enhance discipline.
• Accountability Measures: Introducing a Parliamentary Disruption Index to track and monitor disruptions would help increase accountability. 
  • Additionally, deducting salaries of MPs causing frequent disruptions can act as a deterrent​.
  • A “Productivity Meter” could track the number of hours lost to disruptions and adjournments, monitoring the daily productivity of both Houses of Parliament.
• Empower the Opposition: Allocate specific days for opposition-led debates, as practiced in the UK (20 Opposition Days annually).
  • Structured opportunities for opposition can reduce disruptions and foster more constructive discussions.
• Improve Legislative Scrutiny: Enhance the role of parliamentary committees in examining bills before they are introduced on the floor.
  • The U.S. Congress uses committees effectively, ensuring bills are well-prepared and reducing rushed legislation.
• Revive Public Trust: Focus on meaningful debates and transparency by prioritizing public-interest issues over partisan theatrics.
  • Engaging citizens through transparent debates and better media portrayal can rebuild confidence in parliamentary institutions.
• Ensure Effective Use of Question Hour: Safeguard Question Hour from disruptions and ensure ministers provide detailed answers.
  • Question Hour is a vital accountability mechanism; its frequent disruptions weaken Parliament’s oversight function.
• Technological Interventions: Leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze trends in disruptions and improve accountability can enhance the efficiency of parliamentary proceedings.
  • AI tools can be used to monitor MPs’ behavior and assess productivity, providing data-driven insights for reforms.

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Conclusion

Revival of parliamentary dignity and deliberative practices is essential to restore its role as the cornerstone of democracy. Mutual trust, enforcement of rules, and public accountability are crucial for reversing the decline.

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Recently, The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister approved continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme till 2025-26 with an overall outlay of Rs.69,515.71 Crore from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT)

• A separate Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT) with a corpus of ₹824.77 crore has been created.
• Purpose: To enable faster assessment of crop damage, quicker claim settlement, and reduction in disputes.
• FIAT will also focus on promoting digital enrolment of farmers, increasing coverage, and supporting research and development studies.

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Technology-Based Initiatives

• YES-TECH (Yield Estimation System using Technology):
  • This system uses remote sensing technology for yield estimation with a minimum of 30% weightage given to technology-based estimates.
  • Aim: To phase out traditional Crop Cutting Experiments (CCE) gradually.
  • For the year 2023-24, claims were calculated and settled using YES-TECH.
  • Nine major states currently implementing: Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
    • Madhya Pradesh has adopted 100% technology-based yield estimation.
• WINDS (Weather Information and Network Data Systems):
  • Aim: To establish Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) at the block level and Automatic Rain Gauges (ARGs) at the panchayat level to improve hyper-local weather data collection.
  • The initiative plans to expand the current weather data network density fivefold.
  • Implementation has been deferred to 2024-25 (originally planned for 2023-24) to allow for preparatory work.
  • Costs for data rental will be shared by the Centre and States.
  • Nine states implementing WINDS: Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry, Assam, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan.

About Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

• Launch: Launched in 2016, A large-scale crop subsidy insurance scheme that was aimed to safeguard farmers.
• Umbrella scheme: PMFBY scheme was designed in line with the One Nation–One Scheme and replaces three older initiatives:
  • Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS), 
  • Weather-based Crop Insurance Scheme and 
  • National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS).
• Objectives:
  • To provide insurance coverage and financial support to the farmers in the event of failure of any of the notified crops as a result of natural calamities, pests & diseases.
  • To stabilise the income of farmers to ensure their continuance in farming.
  • To encourage farmers to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices.
  • To ensure flow of credit to the agriculture sector.
• Functioning:
  • PMFBY insures farmers against all non-preventable natural risks from pre-sowing to post-harvest.
  • Farmers have to pay a maximum of 2 per cent of the total premium of the insured amount for kharif crops, 1.5 per cent for rabi food crops and oilseeds as well as 5 per cent for commercial / horticultural crops.
  • The balance premium is shared by the Union and state governments on a 50:50 basis and on a 90:10 basis in the case of northeastern states.
• Coverage:
• • Risks covered under the scheme: Risk of sowing, planting and germination failure, Risk of standing crop failure, Risk of post-harvest losses, Protection against calamities.
  • Exclusions: Loss or damage to notified insured crops due to war, nuclear risks, malicious damage and other preventable risks is excluded from the scope of coverage.
  • Coverage of Crops: Food crops (Cereals, Millets and Pulses), Oilseeds, Annual Commercial / Annual Horticultural crops.

About Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)

• Launch: Launched by the central government in 2016.
• Administering Authority: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Basis for Compensation: Weather triggers instead of actual crop yield.
• Objective of RWBCIS
  • To mitigate the financial hardship of farmers by providing compensation for anticipated crop losses caused by adverse weather conditions.
  • Weather parameters such as rainfall, temperature, wind, and humidity serve as proxies for crop yield in determining payouts.
• Coverage: Food crops (cereals, millets, pulses), oilseeds, and annual commercial/horticultural crops.
• Weather Risks Covered:
  • Rainfall (deficit, excess, unseasonal, dry spells, rainy days).
  • Temperature (high or low).
  • Relative humidity.
  • Wind speed.
  • Hailstorms and cloudbursts.
• Implementation
  • The scheme operates on an Area Approach wherein a Reference Weather Unit Area (RUA) determines weather parameters.
  • Crop life cycle is divided into phases (sowing to maturity), and weather risks are assessed for each phase.

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Comparison Between RWBCIS and PMFBY

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The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has highlighted opportunities and challenges for India under World Bank’s Business Ready (B-READY) framework that benchmarks business environments globally.

• The World Bank’s Business Ready (B-READY) framework is replacing the ‘Doing Business index’ due to past data irregularities in the reports

About the B-READY Report

• Objectives
  • To provide a comprehensive assessment of business environments. 
  • To Evaluate the regulatory frameworks, public services, and their efficiency for firms.
  • To support private sector development and improve investment climates globally.
• Key Features: Covers 10 areas of a firm’s lifecycle, including business entry, labour regulations, and international trade.
• Focuses on starting, operating, and closing or reorganizing business activities.
• Three Pillars of Assessment
  • Regulatory Framework : Evaluates rules and regulations throughout a firm’s lifecycle.Promotes clarity, fairness, and sustainability.
  • Public Services: Reviews government services and infrastructure supporting businesses. Highlights digitalization, transparency, and interoperability.
  • Operational Efficiency: Measures ease of compliance with regulations and access to public services. Focuses on operational ease and regulatory efficiency.

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• Key Themes of B-READY
  • Digital Adoption: Assesses the level of digital integration in government and business operations.It focuses on the use of technology to enhance the business environment.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Evaluates regulatory provisions impacting business operations with sustainability as a priority. It highlights environmentally responsible practices and policies.
  • Gender Inclusivity: Reviews the collection and use of gender-disaggregated data and Examines the implementation of gender-sensitive regulations and programs.
• Scoring Mechanism
  • Topic Scores: Reflect firm flexibility and social benefits based on the three pillars.
  • Pillar Scores: Cover 10 topics, standardized between 0 and 100.
• Data Collection and Updates: 
  • Expert questionnaires for regulatory and public service data.
  • World Bank Enterprise Surveys for operational efficiency data.
• Frequency: Expert data updated annually and firm-level data updated every three years.
• India’s Participation: India will join the B-READY rankings in 2026.

Key Highlights of GTRI on B-READY Report 

• Global Comparisons: Countries like Singapore excel in parameters such as online business registration and trade facilitation.
  • Germany and Singapore simplify customs to enhance trade efficiency.
• Opportunity for India : Likely to score well on Quality of Regulations, Effectiveness of Public Services, and Operational Efficiency.
• Challenges for India: Scores on business entry, labour regulations, and international trade expected to be moderate to low due to existing inefficiencies.

Challenges for India for Business

• Business Entry: India faces multiple steps and incomplete digital integration, unlike Singapore’s seamless one-day registration.
• Labour Regulations: Introduction of four labour codes is promising, but uneven implementation across states slows progress.
• International Trade: Customs delays, inconsistent enforcement, and high logistics costs hinder trade efficiency.
  • India has reduced the average turnaround time at major ports from 4.3 days in 2012-13 to 2.1 days in 2022-23. However, this is still higher compared to top-performing ports like Jawaharlal Nehru Port near Mumbai, which has achieved turnaround times as low as 26 hours.
• Business Location:  Acquiring land and necessary approvals for business operations in India can be a protracted process, with regulatory inconsistencies across states adding to the complexity. This unpredictability can deter investment and delay project initiation.
• Broader Issues: High logistics costs, burdensome GST compliance, slow dispute resolution, and limited SME credit access. These factors contribute to reduced trade efficiency and competitiveness.
  • Logistics costs in India are estimated to be around 14-16% of GDP as per Economic Survey 2022-23, compared to approximately 12% in the U.S. and Europe, and about 8% in China.

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Way Forward

• Leverage Global Insights: Draw lessons from top-performing countries like Singapore and Germany while adapting solutions to local contexts.
• Focus on Local Reforms: Accelerate implementation of labour codes and streamline business entry processes. Improve customs efficiency and reduce logistics costs to boost international trade.
• Balanced Approach: Avoid overemphasis on rankings. Address structural issues such as digital integration, dispute resolution, and access to green technologies.
• Policy Priorities: Ensure reforms cater to India’s unique economic complexity and vast business landscape.

By addressing these challenges with a focus on both global best practices and local reforms, India can strengthen its position in the B-READY framework and create a more conducive environment for businesses.

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The Ministry of Steel is developing the ‘Green Steel Mission’ to decarbonize the steel industry and support India’s net-zero emission goals.

• It includes initiatives such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Green Steel, renewable energy incentives, and mandates for government agencies to procure green steel.

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About the Green Steel Mission

• The Ministry of Steel is preparing the ‘Green Steel Mission’ with an estimated cost of Rs 15000 Crore for helping the Steel Industry.
• Objective: The mission aims to decarbonize the steel sector and align it with India’s net-zero emission target by 2070.
• Key Components of the mission :
  • Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Green Steel:
    • Encourages the production of green steel.
    • Attracts investments to boost domestic specialty steel manufacturing.
    • Aims to reduce reliance on imports.
  • Incentives for Renewable Energy:Promotes the use of renewable energy in steel production and helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the steel industry.
  • Mandates for Government Agencies: Requires government agencies to procure green steel, driving demand and supporting sustainable practices.

About the Steel Sector in India

• Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon containing less than 2% carbon and 1% manganese, along with small amounts of silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, and oxygen.
  • Higher carbon content results in cast iron.
• Production Capacity: India’s crude steel capacity reached 179.5 million tonnes in 2023-24.
• India is the second-largest producer of steel globally, following China.
• Private Sector Dominance: The private sector contributes approximately 83% of India’s total crude steel production.
• Major Steel-Producing States: Key states include Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and West Bengal.
  • Odisha leads steel production in India.
• Overview of Indian Steel Sector: This industry is a deregulated sector and Indian steel industry is categorized into major, main, and secondary producers.
• Production Statistics: 
• • India ranks as the world’s second-largest crude steel producer, with 125.32 MT output in FY23.
  • Finished steel production stood at 121.29 MT during the same period.
• Per Capita Consumption: India’s per capita finished steel consumption was 97.7 kg in 2023-24.
  • This is significantly lower than the global average (219.3 kg) and China’s average (628.3 kg).
• Environmental Impact: Steel production contributes to 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions, as reported by the International Energy Agency.
  • The industry uses coal and iron ore, releasing pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), oxides of sulfur (SOx), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), PM 2.5, wastewater, hazardous waste, and solid waste.

Significance of De-Carbonising Steel Industry

• Climate Change Mitigation: The steel industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 7-9% of global emissions. Decarbonization is crucial for mitigating climate change and limiting global warming.
• Enhanced Environmental Sustainability: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing emissions will lead to a cleaner environment with reduced air and water pollution, improving public health and ecological balance.
• Technological Innovation: Decarbonization will drive innovation in steel production technologies, leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable processes, creating new job opportunities and boosting economic growth.
• Global Competitiveness: As global demand for green steel grows, India can position itself as a leader in sustainable steel production, attracting investments and gaining a competitive advantage in the global market.

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Conclusion

The Green Steel Mission exemplifies India’s commitment to sustainable development by addressing the steel sector’s environmental challenges. Through innovative technologies, renewable energy adoption, and targeted incentives, it seeks to decarbonize the industry and align with net-zero goals. While challenges like higher costs persist, the mission lays a strong foundation for a greener, globally competitive steel sector.

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Following the death of former PM Manmohan Singh, the government declared seven days of state mourning, from December 26 to January 1.

• During this period, the national flag was flown at half mast across India where it is regularly flown.

About State Funeral

• Definition: A state funeral is a ceremonial event organized for significant public figures, following specific rules and protocols, and involving public mourning.
• Eligibility:
  • According to government guidelines, a state funeral is accorded in the event of the death of:
    • The President.
    • The Prime Minister.
    • A former President.
    • A Governor (limited to the concerned state).
  • No state funeral is accorded for other dignitaries unless specifically ordered by the government.
• A State funeral will be attended by all the gazetted officers of Government who may be present in the station.
• Service personnel will wear dress for State functions.
• Organizing Authority: The Ministry of Defence is responsible for organizing arrangements for a state funeral, based on notifications from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

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About National Mourning

• Declaration: National mourning is declared either by the Central or State Governments to honor leaders or individuals who have made significant contributions to the country.
• Official Protocol During Mourning:
  • The national flag is flown at half mast.
  • All official entertainments are suspended, except for Republic Day, Independence Day, or Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary.

Flag Code for State Funerals

• During a state funeral, the national flag is draped over the bier or coffin, with the saffron side positioned towards the head.
• According to Section 3.58 of the Flag Code of India, 2002, the flag is neither lowered into the grave nor burned with the body.

Salient Features of the Flag Code of India

• Shape and Dimensions: The national flag must be rectangular in shape, with a ratio of 3:2 for length to height (width).
• Flags measuring 450 x 300 mm are designated for aircrafts used in VVIP flights, while those sized 225 x 150 mm are intended for display on motor-cars. Additionally, flags with dimensions of 150 x 100 mm are specifically used as table flags.
• Prohibition of Simultaneous Hoisting: The national flag should not be flown from a single masthead simultaneously with any other flag or flags.
• Usage on Vehicles: The national flag may only be flown on vehicles of dignitaries mentioned in Section IX of Part III of the Flag Code, such as the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Governors.
• Positioning Restrictions: No other flag or bunting should be placed higher than, above, or side by side with the national flag.

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Amendments to the Flag Code of India

• 2021 Amendment: The use of the national flag made of polyester or machine-made materials was permitted. 
  • The national flag may now be made of hand-spun and hand-woven or machine-made cotton, polyester, wool, or silk khadi bunting.
• 2022 Amendment: The rules for flag display were relaxed. 
  • The national flag may now be flown day and night if displayed in the open or on the house of a member of the public. 
  • Earlier, the flag could only be flown from sunrise to sunset, regardless of weather conditions.

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The famous Tigress originally translocated to Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) from Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, was relocated back to Odisha.

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Key Highlights on the Transfer

• Purpose of original translocation: To enhance the genetic pool of tigers in Similipal but faced challenges due to her prolonged travels across three states.
• Need of intervention: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) intervened, citing procedural violations, and instructed the tigress’s immediate return to Odisha.

About the Tiger Relocation Project

• Initiation: Launched in 2018, starting with the translocation of two tigers from Kanha and Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserves to Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Odisha.
• Objectives: To reintroduce tiger populations in areas where they have become extinct or have a reduced presence.
  • To address territorial disputes in regions with high tiger densities.

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• Key Authority: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• Funding: The receiving states are responsible for covering the costs of tiger translocation efforts.
• Challenges: The NTCA has currently held back permissions for relocating more tigers due to concerns over the Similipal project’s outcomes.

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As of 2023, 440 districts in India have excessive nitrates in their groundwater, compared to 359 districts in 2017, as reported by the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) on January 1, 2025.

• This rising contamination poses significant health risks, especially for young children, and contributes to environmental toxicity.

Key Highlights of the Report

• Districts Affected: Excessive nitrate contamination was found in 440 districts in 2023, up from 359 districts in 2017.
  • 56% of India’s districts are currently affected by nitrate issues.
• Definition of Contamination: Groundwater nitrate contamination is defined as nitrate levels exceeding 45 mg per litre.
• Regions with High Contamination: States like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat have consistently reported high nitrate levels since 2017.
  • Central and southern regions of India exhibit increasing trends of nitrate contamination.
• States with Notable Contamination
  • Maharashtra (35.74%)
  • Telangana (27.48%)
  • Andhra Pradesh (23.5%)
  • Madhya Pradesh (22.58%)
• Seasonal Impact on Contamination: Nitrate contamination tends to increase during the monsoon season:
  • Pre-monsoon contamination: 30.77%
  • Post-monsoon contamination: 32.66%
• Other Chemical Contaminants: High concentrations of fluoride and uranium have been detected in states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
  • Uranium levels exceeding 30 ppb (parts per billion) are deemed unsafe for consumption.

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About Ground water Contamination

• Groundwater contamination occurs when pollutants enter the groundwater, making it unsafe for use.
• Sources of contamination: 
• • Industrial waste: Chemicals, heavy metals
  • Agricultural activities: Fertilizers, pesticides
  • Septic systems: Leaking tanks
  • Landfills: Leaching of heavy metals into Ground water .
  • Mining: Acid mine drainage
  • Oil spills: Leaking underground storage tanks

State of Groundwater Extraction

• Groundwater Extraction Rate
  • The Groundwater extraction rate remains at 60.4%, unchanged since 2009.
  • Groundwater extraction rate refers to the proportion of groundwater withdrawn for uses such as agriculture, industry, and domestic purposes compared to the total available recharge.
    • Recharge of ground water is through natural replenishment of groundwater through rainfall and other sources.
• Safety of Blocks
  • 73% of groundwater blocks in India are now classified as being in the “safe zone,” where replenishment matches or exceeds extraction.
  • This is an improvement from 67.4% in 2022 to 73% in 2023.

Different types of groundwater contamination, their sources, and health impacts

About Central Water Commission (CWC)

• Genesis: Established in 1945 based on the advice of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, specifically the Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
• Headquarters: Located in New Delhi.
• Leadership: Chaired by a Chairman who also serves as the Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government of India.
• Functions
  • Deals exclusively with surface water management.
  • Groundwater issues are managed by the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB).

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About Central Groundwater Board (CGWB)

• Formation: Established in 1970 to develop groundwater policies and programs.
• Structure: A multi-disciplinary scientific organization comprising hydrogeologists, geophysicists, chemists, hydrologists, hydrometeorologists, and engineers.
• Headquarters: Located in Faridabad, Haryana.
• Central Groundwater Authority (CGWA)
• • Constituted under Section 3(3) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
  • Responsible for the regulation and control of groundwater development and management in India.

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The special subsidy of ₹3,500 per tonne on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), originally set to end on December 31, 2024, has been extended until December 31, 2025.

• To control farmgate prices of DAP, India’s second most-consumed fertiliser, despite the recent depreciation of the rupee.

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Import Cost of DAP

• Fiscal Cost: The additional ₹3,500 per tonne subsidy will cost the government approximately ₹6,475 crore.
• Challenges Due to Falling Rupee: The rupee’s depreciation from ₹83.8/USD to ₹85.7/USD has increased the landed cost of DAP imports.
  • Fertiliser companies’ gross realisation of ₹52,411 per tonne (MRP + subsidies) is still below the landed cost of ₹54,160.
• Compensation for Imports: In September 2024, the government approved full compensation for DAP imports above $559.71 per tonne for shipments arriving between September 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
• Exchange rate considered for compensation: ₹83.23/USD (now outdated due to further depreciation).

Industry Concerns

• Fertiliser Stock Levels and Supply Concern: Current Stock Levels (as of mid-December 2024) of DAP is  9.2 lakh tonnes (down from 13 lakh tonnes year-on-year).
• Complex fertilisers stock decline  : 23.7 lakh tonnes (down from 32.3 lakh tonnes year-on-year).
• Industry demand: Companies suggest the need for either increased subsidies to match rising costs, or permission to raise the MRP of DAP by at least ₹1,500 per tonne.

Upcoming Challenges

• Need of Import: Adequate imports of both finished fertilisers and raw materials are required to ensure sufficient availability for the kharif season (June-July 2025).
  • Without imports, there could be supply disruptions, as stocks are already below year-ago levels.
• Seasonal Impact: The current consumption season (rabi crop) is over, so any MRP increase would have minimal immediate impact.
  • The price rise will impact the input cost in next kharif season.

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Way Forward

• Increase Subsidies Temporarily: To offset the rising costs due to rupee depreciation, the government can provide additional short-term subsidies to ensure affordability for farmers.
• Encourage Domestic Production: Promote domestic manufacturing of DAP and intermediates to reduce dependency on imports.
• Exchange Rate Hedging: Fertiliser companies could hedge against currency fluctuations to mitigate risks.
• Alternative Fertilisers: Promote balanced fertilisation using alternative and indigenous fertilisers like bio-fertilisers to reduce reliance on DAP.
• Strengthen Stock Management: Maintain higher buffer stocks by ensuring timely imports of both fertilisers and raw materials.
• Technology & R&D: Invest in research for cost-effective fertiliser formulations and sustainable farming practices. For Example , introducing Nano-DAP at affordable prices.

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The Indian Navy commissioned three frontline platforms into service at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai recently.

• The commissioned ships are,
• • Vagsheer: The sixth and last Scorpene-class submarine; Surat: The fourth and last of the Project-15B stealth destroyers; Nilgiri: The lead ship of the Project-17A stealth frigates

About the 3 Platforms

• Vagsheer:
  • It is the last of the six Kalvari class Project 75 Scorpene class submarine
  • Built By: The submarine is entirely built by the Indian shipyard Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) through technology transfer and partnership with France’s Naval Group.
  • Features:
    • It is a silent and versatile diesel-electric submarine.
    • Technology: It features modular construction which allows for future upgrades such as the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology.
    • Range of Missions: The Submarine can conduct anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, area surveillance, and special operations. 
    • Weapons: It is armed with wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems

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• Nilgiri: 
  • It is the lead ship of Project-17A guided stealth frigates and is a major advancement over the Shivalik-class frigate
  • Built by: The ship is built by the Indian shipyard Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and is designed indigenously by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau
  • Features: 
    • Stealth: The platform incorporates significant stealth features and reduced radar signatures through state-of-the-art technology. 
    • Multi Role Platform: Nilgiri is a multi-role asset prepared to counter any surface, sub-surface, or air threat.
    • The ship possess advanced sensors and the capability to operate a variety of helicopters including the MH-60R during both day and night operations. 
    • Operation: Rail-Less Helicopter Traversing System and a Visual Aid and Landing System ensure seamless operations under all conditions. 
• Surat: 
  • It is the 4th ship of the Visakhapatnam Class Project-15B and is a stealth destroyer 
    • Visakhapatnam Class Project-15B is the follow-on class to the Kolkata-class (Project-15A) destroyers.
  • Predecessors: INS Visakhapatnam (commissioned in 2021), INS Mormugao (2022) and INS Imphal (2023)
  • Built By:  The ship is built by the Indian shipyard Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and is designed indigenously by the  Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau
  • Features:
    • Surat is the first naval ship to be named after a city in Gujarat
    • Surat  is the first Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled warship utilising indigenously developed Al solutions enhancing its operational efficiency.
    • Weapons: It is equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles and torpedoes. 
    • Powered By: Surat is powered by a combined gas and gas (COGAG) propulsion set, comprising four gas turbines.

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The Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) report has been released by the Ministry of Education (MoE) recently.

Highlights of the Report

• Enrolment Drop: The total enrolment of students has dropped with 24.8 crore students enrolled in the academic year 2023-24 as compared to 25.18 crore in 2022-23.
  • Enrolment Rates dropped by over 6% (nearly 1.22 crore students) as compared to 2018-19.
• Gender wise: 
  • Boys: A decrease of 4.87% in the enrollment was seen in the year 2023-2024 with 12.87 crore boys enrolled as compared to 13.53 crore in 2018-19.
  • Girls: Enrolment of girls decreased from 12.49 crore in 2018-19 to 11.93 crore in 2023-24, a decrease of 4.48%. 
• State wise: 
  • Bihar (35.65 lakh students gap), Uttar Pradesh (gap of  28.26 lakh) and Maharashtra (gap of 18.55 lakh students) saw among the highest drop in enrolments as compared to 2018-2019.

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Intensity of cyclones has gone up in past four decades: data

Context: The number of tropical cyclones each year has stayed consistent over the past 40 years, but their intensity has increased, as confirmed by international databases. 

Key points from the analysis 

• Intensity of Cyclones
  • Average maximum wind speed rose from 182 km/h (1981–2010) to 192 km/h (last decade)
  • Climate change is expected to increase the number of Category 4 and 5 cyclones.
  • Rising sea temperatures likely contribute to higher cyclone intensity.
• Recent Cyclone Data 
  • Strongest Cyclone:
    • Hurricane Milton  reached speeds of 278 km/h, battering the US coast.

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Trinidad and Tobago

Context: A rise in criminal activities has prompted the declaration of a state of emergency in Trinidad and Tobago.

About Trinidad and Tobago

• Trinidad and Tobago is a dual-island nation located in the Caribbean
  • Situated northeast of Venezuela and south of Grenada.
• Location: Northern Hemisphere and Western Hemisphere
• Capital: Port of Spain.
• Nickname: Land of the Hummingbird
• Largest city: Chaguanas
• Bordering regions: The islands are bounded by the Caribbean Sea to the north; by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east and by the Gulf of Paria to the west.
• Shares maritime boundaries with:
  • Barbados: To the northeast.
  • Guyana: To the southeast.

Other Important points to remember 

• Highest point: El Cerro del Aripo
• Major river: Caroni River
  • It flows from the Northern Range to the Gulf of Paria.
• Economy
  • Economic Base: Primarily industrial, driven by significant reserves of oil and gas.
  • Tourism: Unlike most Caribbean nations, tourism plays a smaller role in the economy.
  • Natural Advantage: Located further south, the country experiences fewer hurricanes compared to other Caribbean regions.

T.M. Krishna honoured with ‘Sangita Kalanidhi’

Context: T.M. Krishna was honored with the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi 2024 title at the 98th Annual Conference and Concerts organized by The Music Academy in Chennai.

About Sangita Kalanidhi Award

• It is considered the highest award in the field of Carnatic music.
• The award comprises a gold medal and a birudu Patra (citation).

Other Awardees

• Sangita Kalaacharya Title: Parassala Ravi and Geetha Raja.
• Musicologist Award 2024: Dr. Margaret Bastin.
• TTK Award: Thiruvaiyyaru Brothers (S. Narasimhan and S. Venkatesan) and violinist H.K. Narasimhamurthy.

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About T.M. Krishna

• He is an acclaimed Indian Carnatic vocalist, writer, activist, author, and Ramon Magsaysay awardee.
• Awards and Recognitions
  • Ramon Magsaysay Award (2016)
  • Sangita Kalanidhi Award (2024):
  • Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration (2017)
  • Swathi Sangeetha Puraskaram (2019): Kerala State Government’s highest honor for musicians.
• Contribution of T.M. Krishna in Literary Works 
  • A Southern Music – The Karnatik Story (2013), MS Understood, Reshaping Art (2018), Sebastian and Sons (2020)

Brazilian Velvet Ant

Context: Scientists found that the dark markings on a species of fluffy ‘Ultra-Black’ Wasp reflected less than 1 percent of light.

About Brazilian Velvet Ant

• Misnomer: Despite being called velvet ants, these insects are actually wasps, not ants.
• Habitat: Brazilian velvet ants are typically found in the tropical savannas and dry shrub deserts of Brazil.
• Distinctive Feature: They are known for their striking black-and-white markings.
• Recent Findings: Female velvet ants possess ultrablack parts that absorb almost all visible light.

Comparison with Regular Black

• Ordinary Black: This is caused by melanin and reflects some light, such as the feathers of a crow.
• Ultrablack: Achieved through microstructures that trap and swallow nearly all light that strikes the surface, making it significantly darker than regular black.

Functions of Ultrablack Color

• Defense Mechanism: The ultrablack coloration absorbs nearly all ultraviolet light, which may provide protection against predators with UV-sensitive vision.
• Camouflage: Although its role in hiding from predators is unclear, velvet ants are well-defended by other features, including painful stings, a hard exoskeleton, and screeching sounds.

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Difference between bee, ant and wasp

• Appearance: Bees are fuzzy with thick bodies, ants are slim and smooth, while wasps are slender with a shiny body.
• Behavior: Bees are social pollinators, ants are scavengers, and wasps are predators or parasitoids.
• Nesting: Bees build wax hives, ants create underground colonies, and wasps construct paper-like nests.
• Diet: Bees feed on nectar and pollen, ants consume diverse foods (sugars, proteins), and wasps eat insects and nectar.
• Sting: Bees die after stinging, ants have weak bites/stings, and wasps can sting multiple times.
• Role in Ecosystem: Bees are vital pollinators, ants help in soil aeration, and wasps control pest populations.

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