Recently, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released draft Guidelines for the Withdrawal of Life Support in Terminally Ill Patients to operationalise the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 orders on the right to die with dignity for all Indians.

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About Draft Guidelines for the Withdrawal of Life Support

• Issued by: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• Objective: Operationalise the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 orders on the right to die with dignity under Article 21 (Right to life and personal liberty).
• Legal Recognition: Withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatment is legal in India under a structured framework, though there’s no specific legislation on this.

Key Mechanisms

• Medical Boards:
  • Primary Medical Board: Composed of the treating doctor and two experts, it determines if further treatment is beneficial.
  • Secondary Medical Board: Confirms or rejects the Primary Board’s decision, includes members nominated by the district Chief Medical Officer.
• Living Will/Advance Medical Directive:
  • A written document for individuals aged 18+, specifying end-of-life treatment preferences if they lose decision-making capacity.
  • Requires at least two surrogate decision-makers and must be signed, witnessed, and attested.
• Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation (DNAR) Orders:
  • Issued by the treating physician with family/patient consent.
  • Limits resuscitation efforts but continues other medical treatments for comfort.
• Process of Withholding/Withdrawing Treatment
  • Assessment:
    • The Primary Medical Board assesses the patient’s condition.
    • The Secondary Medical Board reviews the recommendation for another level of checks.
  • Consent and Notification:
    • Requires the consent of the patient’s nominated surrogate decision-makers.
    • Decisions must be notified to the local judicial magistrate.
• Ethical and Practical Considerations
  • Shared Decision-Making: Ensures joint decisions between medical teams and families, upholding patient autonomy and legal clarity.
    • This approach provides legal protection for doctors, honours the patient’s autonomy, incorporates family preferences, and upholds ethical standards, ensuring that responsibility does not rest solely on the physician.
  • Palliative Care: Focuses on managing pain and providing comfort when life-support is withdrawn, not considered as giving up on the patient.
  • Passive Euthanasia Misinterpretation: “Passive euthanasia” refers to withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatment, distinct from active euthanasia, which is intentional killing for mercy.

About Euthanasia

• Refers: The practice under which an individual intentionally ends his/her life to get relief from an incurable condition, or intolerable suffering.
• Etymology: The word ‘euthanasia’ is a product of two Greek words ‘eu’ meaning ‘good’ and ‘thanatos’ meaning ‘death’. 
• Types of Euthanasia: There are four types of euthanasia.
  • Active euthanasia: It involves an active intervention to end a person’s life with substances or external force, such as administering a lethal injection.                                                 
  • Passive euthanasia: It refers to withdrawing life support or treatment that is essential to keep a terminally ill person alive.
  • Voluntary euthanasia: It takes place with the consent of the patient. 
  • Involuntary euthanasia: It is administered without the patient’s consent. 

SC judgement related to Right to Life and Right to Die

• Maruti Sripati Dubal vs. State of Maharashtra (1987)
  • Context: Petitioner attempted suicide, was charged under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860.

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• • Judgement: Declared Section 309 unconstitutional as it was harsh and unreasonable. Emphasized the need for mental health support rather than penal action against individuals attempting suicide.
• Rathinam vs. Union of India (1994)
  • Judgement: Supreme Court upheld Maruti Sripati Dubal’s decision, declaring the Right to Life under Article 21 also includes the Right to Die.
• Gian Kaur vs. State of Punjab (1996)
  • Reversal: Five-judge Constitutional Bench overruled the Rathinam case.
  • Ruling: Right to Life does not include the Right to Die. Section 309 of IPC was deemed constitutional, affirming that suicide is not a protected liberty under Article 21.

SC on Euthanasia In India

• Aruna Ramchandra Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011): In this case, the Supreme Court had held that passive euthanasia can be allowed under exceptional circumstances.
• Common Cause vs. Union of India (2018): The Supreme Court allowed passive euthanasia while recognising the living wills of terminally-ill patients who could go into a permanent vegetative state, and issued guidelines regulating this procedure.
  • Living Will: A living will is a legal document that specifies the type of medical care that an individual does or does not want in the event they are unable to communicate their wishes.
  • It is also known as an advance directive.
• In 2023 the Supreme Court modified the guidelines to make the right to die with dignity more accessible.

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Global Trends

• Netherlands, Luxembourg, Belgium: These Countries allow both euthanasia and assisted suicide for anyone who faces “unbearable suffering” that has no chance of improvement.
• Switzerland:  Switzerland has banned euthanasia but allows assisted dying in the presence of a doctor or physician.
• Canada:  Canada had announced that euthanasia and assisted dying would be allowed for mentally ill patients by March 2023; however, the decision has been widely criticised, and the move may be delayed.
• United States: USA has different laws in different states. Euthanasia is allowed in some states like Washington, Oregon, and Montana.
• United Kingdom: The United Kingdom considers it illegal and equivalent to manslaughter.
• In 2021, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, and Portugal passed legislation to legalise or adopt euthanasia. 
  • Australia: New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia allowed voluntary assisted dying (VAD)
  • New Zealand: Euthanasia is legal, but a national referendum on the issue will take place in September 2020 
  • Portugal: Law is not yet in force, but is awaiting regulation 

Ethical Dimensions of Euthanasia

• Respect for Autonomy and Informed Consent: Euthanasia prioritises individual autonomy, allowing mentally competent individuals to make decisions about ending their suffering. 
  • Full informed consent is necessary to ensure the individual fully understands their condition and options.
• Balancing Quality of Life with Sanctity of Life: The debate centres on quality of life, where ending suffering and preserving dignity are prioritised, versus sanctity of life, which views life as inherently valuable and not to be ended prematurely.
• Implications for Law and Society: Euthanasia regulations vary widely by jurisdiction, reflecting different cultural and ethical views.
  • Socially, euthanasia raises questions about the role of medical professionals, societal responsibilities, and the accessibility of palliative care.

Significance of the Guidelines

• Strengthening the Right to Die with Dignity: These guidelines put into action the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 decisions in the Common Cause case,
  • It firmly establishes the legal right for terminally ill patients to pass with dignity under Article 21.
• Establishing a Framework for Decision-Making: Guidelines require hospitals to form Primary and Secondary Medical Boards.
  • It provides oversight to ensure that decisions to withdraw life support are carefully reviewed and responsibly enacted.
• Defining Clear Procedures for Life Support Withdrawal: The guidelines detail a clear process: the Primary Board assesses, the Secondary Board independently reviews, consent from designated surrogates is obtained, and judicial notification is completed. 
  • This framework ensures transparency and accountability.
• Emphasising Ethical, Collaborative Decision-Making: Encourages collaboration between the medical team and the patient’s family.
  • It aligns treatment with the patient’s wishes, protecting medical professionals legally, and easing the decision-making burden on families.

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Challenges with the Guidelines

• Complexity in Medical Board Formation: Setting up Primary and Secondary Medical Boards in every hospital can be resource-intensive, particularly for smaller or rural hospitals with limited facilities and personnel.
• Absence of Specific Legislation: Without a dedicated law on the Right to Die, implementation might be inconsistent, leading to legal ambiguities. This could discourage hospitals from applying the guidelines comprehensively.
• Terminological Confusion: Continued use of terms like “passive euthanasia” may create social discomfort and misunderstandings, potentially hindering societal acceptance of the right to die with dignity.
• Complicated Living Will Process: The process of creating a living will is complex, involving documentation, witnesses, executors, and notary verification, which could make it inaccessible to many people.
• Potential Delays in Decision-Making: The multi-step process—medical board assessments, family consent, and judicial notification—might slow decision-making, delaying timely withdrawal and impacting the right to die with dignity.
• Emotional and Ethical Burden on Families and Doctors: Shared decision-making, although essential for patient rights, places significant emotional strain on families and an ethical burden on physicians.

Way Forward

• Legislative Action to Provide Clarity: Lawmakers should consider drafting specific legislation on life-support withdrawal in terminal cases, providing a robust legal framework to support the right to die with dignity.
• Training and Awareness for Medical Professionals: Medical staff should receive training on the ethical, legal, and procedural aspects of life-support withdrawal to enhance their understanding and approach to end-of-life care.
• Simplifying the Living Will Process: Streamlining the procedure for creating and verifying a living will could make it more accessible to people across different backgrounds.
• Public Education and Awareness Initiatives: Educating the public on end-of-life choices will help families make well-informed decisions aligned with their loved ones’ wishes, fostering understanding and reducing unnecessary suffering.
• Strengthening Palliative Care Services: Expanding access to quality palliative care across hospitals and healthcare centers can offer terminally ill patients comfort and relief from suffering, ensuring that their remaining life is as pain-free as possible.
• Building Support Systems for Families and Caregivers: Providing psychological counselling and support for families and caregivers 
  • It can help them navigate the emotional and ethical challenges associated with end-of-life decisions, reducing stress and ensuring compassionate care for patients.

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Conclusion

• The guidelines for life-support withdrawal mark a crucial step towards recognizing the right to die with dignity, balancing legal clarity, patient autonomy, and ethical medical practice. 
• By addressing legislative gaps, enhancing public awareness, and strengthening support systems, India can ensure a compassionate, well-structured approach to end-of-life care.

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Prime Minister, in his 115th edition of Mann Ki Baat, highlighted the rising threat of”digital arrest” frauds.

Indians Lose ₹120 Crore to Digital Arrest Scams in Q1 2024

• Indians lost about ₹120.3 crore in ‘digital arrest’ frauds, in the first quarter of this year, according to the government data.
• As many as 7.4 lakh complaints were received between January 1 and April 30 this year, while 15.56 lakh complaints were received in 2023, according to the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) data.

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What is Digital Arrest?

• Digital Arrest is a type of scam where scammers impersonate law enforcement to intimidate and extort money from citizens.

Recent Cases of Digital Arrest Fraud: 

• Dr. Pooja Goel, a well-known doctor in Noida, was targeted by scammers posing as officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). 
  • They falsely accused her of using her phone for illegal purposes, leading her to transfer Rs 60 lakh before realizing it was a scam.
• A 72-year-old woman from CR Park in South Delhi lost Rs 83 lakh to scammers posing as police officials. 
  • She was deceived into believing that she was in legal trouble and had to make immediate payments to clear her name.

Steps Involved in Digital Arrest Scam

• Personal Information Gathering: Scammers begin by gathering personal information about the target, often through social media or other public platforms.
  • They may mention specific details about the victim’s life, like a recent vacation or family details, to gain trust.
• Creating Fear: Impersonating government officials or law enforcement, they employ intimidating tactics, like referencing legal sections or using props such as uniforms or office setups, to instill fear.
• Applying Pressure: Scammers use high-pressure tactics, urging immediate action to avoid “arrest.” 
  • This fear-inducing approach causes victims from all walks of life to fall prey to these schemes, often leading to significant financial losses.

The Three-Step Approach to avoid Digital Arrest

• Stop – Pause and remain calm. Avoid sharing any personal information.
• Think – Remember that no government agency demands payments or investigations via video calls or messages.
• Act – Contact the cyber helpline at 1930 or report the incident on cybercrime.gov.in. Preserve evidence, inform your family, and reach out to local police if necessary.

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Government Actions and Awareness Efforts

• Proactive Measures by CERT-IN and Law Enforcement: India’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-IN) has flagged thousands of fraudulent accounts and blocked video-calling IDs, SIM cards, and associated bank accounts used by these scammers.
• A National Cyber Coordination Centre has also been set up to unify efforts with state governments and investigate these cases comprehensively.
• Raising Awareness: PMencouraged schools, colleges, and communities to educate citizens about cyber fraud, emphasizing the importance of collective vigilance.

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A recent study by the Natural History Museum (NHM) in London has revealed that biodiversity is declining more rapidly within protected areas than outside them. 

Key Findings of the Study

• Faster Decline in Biodiversity Inside Protected Areas:The  biodiversity has decreased by 2.1 percentage points within protected critical biodiversity areas (CBAs) from 2000 to 2020. 
  • Surprisingly, biodiversity in non-protected CBAs saw a slightly lower decline of 1.9 percentage points. This finding suggests that the existing approach to conservation within protected areas may be inadequate.
• Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII) Decline: Globally, BII decreased by 1.88 percentage points between 2000 and 2020, highlighting the limitations of current conservation practices.
  • BII is  a measure estimating how much natural biodiversity remains in a region. 
• Challenges within Protected Areas:
• Partial Ecosystem Protection: Many protected areas focus on specific species instead of preserving entire ecosystems, which reduces “biodiversity intactness.”
• Existing Degradation: Some protected areas were already experiencing biodiversity loss before their designation, making them challenging to restore fully.
• Resource Extraction: Oil, gas, and mining concessions within protected zones pose a significant threat. 
  • For example more than 65% of Conkouati-Douli National Park in the Republic of the Congo is occupied by oil and gas concessions.
• Climate Change Impacts: Increased droughts and wildfires, fueled by the climate crisis, have further degraded protected areas.
  • Australia’s national parks, some of the world’s most strictly protected, suffered severe damage during the 2019 wildfires.

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What Are Protected Areas?

• Protected areas are regions designated for the conservation of nature and biodiversity. 
• They include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and critical biodiversity areas (CBAs), which house vital ecosystems like wetlands and rainforests. 
• These areas are intended to limit human activities, offering refuge to endangered species and preserving biodiversity.
• India’s Protected Areas:India has a network of 1014 Protected Areas covering about 5.28% of its total geographic area. 
• Protected areas in India have been categorized according to the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. It categorized protected areas into four categories:
  • National Parks (106)
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries (573)
  • Conservation Reserves (115)
  • Community Reserves (220)

• Global Targets for Protected Area: The 30×30 Initiative, adopted at the Biodiversity COP15, aims to conserve at least 30% of the world’s lands and oceans by 2030. 
  • This goal, supported by international policymakers, emphasizes expanding protected area coverage to prevent biodiversity loss and secure ecosystem services.

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Recommendations For Protected Areas

• Enhanced Conservation Efforts: Researchers stress that simply expanding protected area coverage is insufficient.
  • Conservation policies should focus on maintaining ecosystem integrity, not just achieving coverage goals.
• Strict Protection Measures: Strengthening protection and addressing ongoing threats like resource extraction are essential. 
  • Policymakers must also address the climate-related risks that exacerbate biodiversity loss in these regions.
• Regional Analysis for Tailored Solutions: Conservation strategies should be adapted to the specific needs of each protected area, as biodiversity loss drivers vary across regions.
• Continued Commitment to the 30×30 Initiative: While expanding protected areas remains a priority, emphasis should also be on conserving the ecosystems within these regions effectively to meet biodiversity and climate goals.

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India and Germany convened the 7th Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, addressing pressing global issues. 

Key Highlights on Global Issues

• Russia-Ukraine Conflict: PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
  • Scholz commended India’s stabilizing role in South Asia and encouraged India to support a political solution to the Ukraine crisis.

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• West Asia: Both leaders stressed preventing further escalation, advocating for a ceasefire and a two-state solution to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
• India-Germany Track 1.5 dialogue: It includes the exchange of think-tanks and diplomats which was envisioned to become a pillar of the bilateral relations between both countries in 2019.
• Indo-Pacific Security : Both leaders highlighted the importance of a rules-based order and maritime freedom in the Indo-Pacific, committing to joint efforts in regional security.
  • They announced a joint Memorandum of Arrangement for mutual logistics support, enhancing security collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Germany will deploy a permanent Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram, to strengthen monitoring of marine traffic.
• Condemnation of Terrorism and Violent Extremism: Both Leaders showed a strong stance against  terrorism and violent extremism in all forms and called for unified action against all terrorist organizations, including those sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
• Reform of Global Institutions: Both leaders advocated for reform in multilateral organizations like the UN Security Council to address today’s challenges more effectively.
• Expanded Vision for Partnership: They also highlighted a shift towards a “whole of nation” approach, aiming for broader, deeper collaboration.

Key Announcements and Agreements

• Increased Visa Quota for Skilled Indian Workers: Germany will expand annual visas for skilled Indians from 20,000 to 90,000, recognizing India’s talent as an asset to German economic growth.
• Germany’s “Focus on India” Strategy:Germany’s strategic approach prioritizes India’s skilled workforce and strengthens partnerships, underscoring a deeper level of trust.
• Reducing Dependency on China: emphasised the importance of avoiding “one-sided dependencies,” especially in areas like critical raw materials, positioning India as a key partner in diversifying supply chains.
• India as a Global Manufacturing Hub: PM Modi promoted India as a trade and manufacturing hub, encouraging German businesses to “Make in India, Make for the World.
• Enhanced Defence and Security Cooperation: They signed agreements, including one on classified information exchange, reflecting mutual trust in defense matters.
  • The Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) in criminal matters will strengthen legal collaboration to jointly tackle security challenges.
• Clean Energy and Sustainable Development:
  • Green Hydrogen Roadmap: This roadmap is a significant step towards renewable energy collaboration, aligning with the climate goals of both nations.
  • Joint Research and Development (R&D): A declaration of intent to cooperate in R&D on advanced materials, highlighting a shared commitment to technological innovation.
• Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC): It pools mutual strengths and experiences to offer sustainable, viable and inclusive projects in third countries as per their priorities to support the achievement of SDGs and climate targets in Africa, Asia and beyond.

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About India-Germany Relations

• India and Germany have maintained a “Strategic Partnership” since 2000, now deepening in areas like AI, cybersecurity, circular economy, smart farming, and sustainable development.
• This underscores the growing relevance of India-Germany relations in today’s global context.

Bilateral Trade Relations

• Germany is India’s top trading partner within the EU, with trade reaching USD 26 billion in 2022-23.
• Indian exports to Germany hit USD 10.1 billion, while German imports reached USD 14.9 billion.
• Although there’s no direct free trade agreement (FTA), Germany supports ongoing EU-India Comprehensive  FTA negotiations to further strengthen economic ties.

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NITI Aayog recently raised questions about the necessity of flue gas desulfurization installations in India’s thermal power plants.

• NITI Aayog recommended the federal environment and power ministries to direct coal-based power plants to stop placing fresh orders for the desulphurisation gear

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About Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)

• FGD : It  is a scrubbing method that utilizes an alkaline reagent, typically sodium- or calcium-based, to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from the flue gas emissions of fossil-fueled power stations or coal-fired power plants.
• Effectiveness: FGD can remove up to 95% of sulfur dioxide from flue gas, significantly reducing SO₂ emissions.

• Flue Gas Composition: Also known as exhaust or stack gas, flue gas originates from combustion plants and contains a mix of pollutants, including particulate matter (dust), sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide.It may contain pollutants such as particulates, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and carbon dioxide, but most flue gas consists of nitrogen oxides. Untreated flue gas from power plants, industrial facilities, and other sources can significantly impact local and regional air quality.
• Types of FGD Systems:
  • Dry Sorbent Injection: Utilizes a dry alkaline agent to neutralize SO₂.
  • Wet Limestone-Based System: Uses a slurry of water and limestone for higher removal efficiency.
  • Sea Water-Based System: Employs natural alkalinity in seawater to absorb SO₂.
  • Process Overview: In the scrubber or absorber tower, uncleaned flue gas is sprayed with a mixture of water and limestone (scrubbing slurry), which reacts with sulfur dioxide and binds it, preventing its release into the atmosphere.

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Impact of Sulphur Dioxide in the Environment

• Major Air Pollutant: Sulphur dioxide is a severe environmental pollutant, harmful to human, animal, and plant health.
• Acid Rain Precursor: SO₂ contributes to acid rain, which harms forests, freshwaters, and soils.
  • Acid rain disrupts ecosystems by killing insects and aquatic life forms, damaging vegetation, and reducing biodiversity.
  • It causes damage to Infrastructure and materials causing paint to peel and corrodes steel structures such as bridges.
  • Accelerates the weathering of stone buildings and statues, eroding cultural and historic landmarks.

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Researchers in China identified a new tardigrade species, Hypsibius henanensis, from moss samples collected in Funiu Mountain, Henan province with the ability to withstand Radiation.

Key highlights of  the study

• Genome Sequencing: Scientists sequenced the genome of Hypsibius henanensis, revealing 14,701 genes, with around 30% unique to tardigrades.
• Radiation Exposure: The team subjected this tardigrade species to high doses of gamma radiation, far exceeding human survivability limits, to study its response.

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Tardigrades’ radiation resistance reasons

• Genetic Adaptation: The researchers have identified the genetic mechanisms that help a newly discovered species of tardigrades (Hypsibius henanensis) withstand high levels of radiation. 
• DNA Repair Genes: They identified 2,801 genes involved in DNA repair processes. Key elements include:
• TRID1 Protein: Aids in rapid repair of DNA double-strand breaks resulting from radiation.
• Mitochondrial Proteins: Two proteins, generated from a radiation-activated gene, are crucial for mitochondrial synthesis and DNA repair.
• Betalain Pigments: These antioxidant pigments help neutralise reactive chemicals caused by radiation exposure, protecting cellular structures.

About Tardigrades (Hypsibius henanensis)

• Tardigrades are resilient Creatures also known as water bears or moss piglets.
• They are microscopic, eight-legged animals, typically about 1 mm (0.04 inch) or smaller.
• Classified as free-living invertebrates in the phylum Tardigrada.
• Their tiny, boneless bodies are supported by a hydrostatic skeleton filled with hemolymph (a fluid-filled compartment).
• Equipped with a specialised mouthpart called a buccal pharyngeal apparatus, enabling them to suck nutrients from plants and other microorganisms.
• Known as extremophiles, capable of surviving extreme environmental conditions.
• Require a thin layer of water around their bodies to prevent dehydration, making them effectively aquatic.
• Found globally across terrestrial, marine, and freshwater environments from the Arctic to the Antarctic, including high altitudes and deep-sea regions.

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Potential Application of Tardigrades

• Space Exploration: Protecting astronauts from cosmic radiation.
• Nuclear Clean-up: Enhancing radiation tolerance for workers in radioactive environments.
• Cancer Treatment: Potentially improving radiation therapy for cancer patients by enhancing human cell stress resistance.
• Testing on Human Cells: Tardigrade-derived betalain pigments improved the survival rate of human cells exposed to radiation, suggesting promising applications for human health.

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Odisha is set to get its first tiger from Maharashtra under a big cat relocation project intended at improving the genetic diversity of the Tigers in the Similipal landscape.

First-Ever Tiger Relocation from Maharashtra to Odisha with Radio-Tracking

• Source and Destination: A female tiger from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Maharashtra is being transported to Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha.
• Significance: This relocation is the first such project between Odisha and Maharashtra, following the suspension of an earlier tiger relocation program between Odisha and Madhya Pradesh in 2019.
• Radio-Collaring: The relocated tiger will be equipped with a radio collar to allow continuous tracking and monitoring of its movement within STR.

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About Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR)

• Located in Chandrapur district, Maharashtra.
• Named after the god “Tadoba” or “Taru,” worshipped by indigenous tribes in the dense forests of Tadoba and Andhari.
• “Andhari” refers to the Andhari River, which flows through the forest.
• Linked by corridor connections with Nagzira-Navegaon and Pench Tiger Reserves in Maharashtra.
• Vegetation type: Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous forest.
• Contains two lakes and one waterway: Tadoba Lake, Kolsa Lake, and the Tadoba River.
• Designated as Maharashtra’s second Tiger Reserve in 1993-94.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)

• Designated as a Tiger Reserve in 1956; included in Project Tiger in 1973 and declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1994.
• Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009.
• Forms part of the Similipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve (Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve), which encompasses three protected areas: Similipal Tiger Reserve, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Location: Situated in northern Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, at the eastern edge of the Eastern Ghats.
• Tribes: Home to the Erenga Kharias and Mankirdias tribes, who engage in traditional agriculture and collect seeds and timber.
• Unique feature: The only place in the world where melanistic (black) tigers are found.
• Fauna: Includes leopard, gaur, elephant, langur, barking deer, spotted deer, sloth bear, mongoose, and flying squirrel.

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India ranked 176th out of 180 countries on the 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI), scoring 45.5/100, alongside low-ranked countries like Kiribati, Turkey, Iraq, and Micronesia.

Key Findings on India from Global Nature Conservation Index

• Declining Environmental Performance: India’s Environmental Performance Index (EPI) score has deteriorated over the last decade, underscoring the need for enhanced environmental policies and conservation practices.
• Reason for India’s Poor Ranking: The index attributed India’s low ranking mainly to rising threats to biodiversity and the inefficient management of land.
• Conservation Project Concerns: The Great Nicobar Island Development Project has drawn criticism for its potential adverse impacts on local ecosystems, which include 96 wildlife sanctuaries, 9 national parks, and 1 biosphere reserve.

About Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI)

• Launched in October 2024, NCI assesses environmental protection across 180 countries based on four pillars:
  • Land Management
  • Threats to Biodiversity
  • Capacity and Governance
  • Future Trends
• It evaluates these pillars using 25 performance indicators.
• Developed by: The index was developed by the Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change at Ben-Gurion University, in collaboration with BioDB.com, a non-profit for biodiversity data.

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Key Conservation Issues in India

• Overexploited Fisheries: 34.5% of fisheries in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are overexploited.
• Weak Legislation: India ranks 122nd in effectiveness of laws and regulations for natural resource management and biodiversity.
• Forest Conservation Concerns: The Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2023 (FCAA), facilitates commercial activities in forest areas and exempts certain infrastructure projects from environmental assessments.
  • Significant deforestation, losing 23,300 km² of tree cover from 2001 to 2019.
• Risk to biodiversity: Rising biodiversity threats, with 15.9% of marine species and 13.4% of terrestrial species at risk (IUCN Red List).

Recommendations for Improvement

• Increase government funding for tiger reserves and compensation programs for local communities.
• Address buffer zone management and connectivity in conservation efforts for sustainable, long-term results.
• Shift toward renewable energy and enhanced energy efficiency across industries and infrastructure.
• Implementation of carbon pricing and sustainable land use practices.
• Maintenance and expansion of carbon sinks (forests and wetlands).

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The Indian Navy’s seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), named Abhay, was launched on 25th October 2024.

ABHAY, SEVENTH SHIP OF ASW SWC (GRSE)

• Abhay was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) at the L&T shipyard in Kattupalli.
  • These ASW SWC ships are designed with over 80% indigenous components.
  • This project enhances domestic manufacturing capabilities, boosts employment, and supports the country’s shipbuilding industry.

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About ASW Shallow Water Craft Program

• Nodal Ministry: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) 
• Features and Capabilities of ASW SWC Ships
  • Operational Range: 1,800 nautical miles.
  • Missions: Equipped for anti-submarine warfare in coastal areas, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and mine-laying tasks.
• These vessels are part of the new Arnala class, which will replace the Indian Navy’s current Abhay class ASW Corvettes.

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The Indian Space Programme is on the cusp of important new beginnings with government approval for new projects like work on a new rocket and new moon and Venus missions. 

• Space Vision 2047: India Aims for its own Space Station and Moon Landing by 2040.

Recent Key Approvals By the Indian Government For the Indian Space Programme

• Gaganyaan and Space Station Missions: The Government has approved four new missions under the ‘Gaganyaan’ human spaceflight program.
  • Four missions to test technologies for India’s first space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station 1, expected by 2028.
  • Additional funding of Rs 11,170 crore was allocated for these missions.

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• Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): Development of the NGLV has been approved with an allocated Rs 8,240 crore, covering costs of the rocket’s first three development flights.
  • New Launch Pad at Sriharikota: Has been approved for testing and launching the NGLV.
    • Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): The Next Generation Launch Vehicle or NGLV or “Soorya” is a three-stage partially reusable Heavy-lift launch vehicle, currently under development by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
    • NGLV is designed to deliver 3 times the current payload capability at 1.5 times the cost of the LVM3.
    • Capable of carrying up to 30 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with a reusable first stage, promoting cost-effective and sustainable space access.
    • Incorporates modular green propulsion systems.
• Space-Based Surveillance (SBS): The Cabinet has approved the third phase of the Space Based Surveillance (SBS) missions, which includes 52 satellites for Rs 26,968 crore.

Upcoming Satellite Launches

• Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3): A PSLV by Hindustan Aeronautics, Ltd., and Larsen & Toubro is anticipated by late 2024 or early 2025. 
  • New Space India, Ltd. will select a private entity to commercialise the LVM-3.
    • NewSpace India Limited is a Public Sector Undertaking of the Government of India and under the Department of Space. 

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• Venus Mission: A Venus Orbiter Mission is scheduled for a March 2028 launch window, costing Rs 1,236 crore. 
  • With the mission, scientists hope to study the planet’s acerbic surface and atmosphere to understand how different planets of the Solar System evolved.
• Chandrayaan-4: It will be a sample-return mission, with a budget of Rs 2,104 crore.
  • Dual Launch Strategy: Its components will be launched on two separate LVM-3 launch vehicles.
  • Earth Orbit Docking: They will dock in earth orbit before going to the moon, and land on the surface near the location of Chandrayaan 3.
  • Sample Collection: The lander will scoop up samples of lunar soil and rock for analysis.The samples will be transported back to Earth in a specially designed canister.

• Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX): The Space Commission also approved a joint moon mission with Japan called the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX). 
  • LUPEX is also known as Chandrayaan-5 in India.
  • For LUPEX, ISRO is developing a different moon lander than the one it used for Chandrayaan-3 (Vikram Lander) , and which it hopes can be used in crewed lunar missions in future.

International Collaborations

• NISAR Satellite: The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) will be launched via a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) in early 2025.
  • The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is an earth-observation satellite.
• Proba-3 Mission: It is a mission of the European Space Agency (ESA) to study the Sun’s corona and is scheduled for a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL) launch on November 29, 2024.
  • Dual-Satellite Solar Observation Mission: It will have two satellites flying in formation: 
    • One Satellite will gaze at the Sun; 
    • The other one will block the first satellite’s view of the Sun’s central area, like creating an eclipse, leaving only light from the corona to hit the cameras.
  • India previously launched Proba-1 on the PSLV-C3 mission, in 2001.

Private Sector Innovations

• Green Propulsion Technology: Manastu Space has partnered with Dhruva Space to test its green propulsion technology for Dhruva’s Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Payloads (LEAP-3) mission.
  • LEAP-3 will carry payloads from different companies in 2025. 
  • Manastu is developing a green propulsion system using a hydrogen-peroxide-based fuel. 
  • It first tested LEAP on the PSLV-C58 mission on January 1 this year.
• Project 200 by Bellatrix Aerospace: Project 200 is a prototype for a satellite designed for ultra-low earth orbits at an altitude of 200 km.
• Space Docking Experiment: Ananth Technologies became the first private Indian company to assemble, integrate, and test two Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) satellites for ISRO at the company’s facility in Bengaluru.

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Recent Achievement and Scientific Discoveries

• Chandrayaan-3’s Landing Site: Scientists discovered that the crater near the landing site of Chandrayaan-3 is older than the South Pole Aitken Basin.
  • This was based on data from the Optical High-Resolution Camera onboard the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter and navigational cameras on board Pragyaan, the Chandrayaan-3 rover.
• Astrosat’s Extended Mission Life: Originally planned for five years, Astrosat has been operational for nine years and is projected to last an additional two years, supporting over 400 research papers.
  • AstroSat is India’s first dedicated astronomy mission, designed to simultaneously study celestial sources in X-ray, optical, and ultraviolet spectral bands.
    • India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its thirty-first flight (PSLV-C30) launched the 1515 kg AstroSat into a 650 km orbit from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

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The United States, Japan and South Korea recently announced the launch of the Digital Infrastructure Growth Initiative for India Framework (DiGi Framework).

About DiGi Framework

• Partner country: United States, Japan, and South Korea.
• Aim: To strengthen digital infrastructure in India through collaboration with the Indian private sector.
• The framework focuses on high-quality, sustainable development in digital infrastructure to support strategic projects.

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Areas of Support

• The framework targets projects in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) including:
  • 5G Networks
  • Open RAN (Radio Access Network)
  • Submarine Cables and Optical Fiber Networks
  • Telecom Towers and Data Centers
  • Smart City Infrastructure
  • E-commerce, AI, and Quantum Technology

Significance for the Indo-Pacific Region

• Supports U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea trilateral summit goals and strengthens cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Aligns with the economic and diplomatic agendas of the U.S., Japan, and Korea, fostering development in line with regional priorities.

About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) refers to the digital platforms and systems that enable the delivery of public services, such as identification, payments, health, education, and governance.
  • It can be understood as an intermediate layer in the digital ecosystem. 
• It sits atop a physical layer (including connectivity, devices, servers, data centres, routers, etc.), and supports an apps layer (information solutions to different verticals, e-commerce, cash transfers, remote education, telehealth, etc.). 
• DPI can help solve global challenges such as poverty reduction, climate resilience, and digital transformation by improving the efficiency, transparency, inclusion, and innovation of public service delivery.
• Three Pillars of DPI– DPI has 3 broad objectives- identity, payments and data management. 
  • India, through its India Stack Platform, has become the first country to develop all the three foundational pillars of DPI.

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Categories of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

• DPIs can be broadly grouped into two categories: 
  • Foundational DPIs: Aadhaar, UPI, and Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA) are developed to create robust digital rails and span the domains of digital identity systems and payment infrastructure, and data exchange platforms.
  • Sectoral DPIs: It provides specialised services tailored to the needs of specific sectors. 
    • Examples include the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which is the rails for the provision of universal health coverage. 
• A notable DPI success story is the CoWIN platform, which utilized Aadhaar-based authentication to facilitate the administration of more than 2.2 billion Covid-19 vaccines.

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India

• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India is a set of digital systems and services that support the digital economy and society. 
• DPIs are created by the public sector and are available to users and developers. 
• They can be used to deliver public services like education, healthcare, payments, identification, and governance. 
• Some examples of DPIs in India include: 
• • Aadhaar: A digital identity system that allows users to verify and manage their identities online 
  • UPI: A digital payment system that has revolutionised the payment landscape 
  • CoWIN: A platform that has helped to deliver services 
  • DigiLocker: A data infrastructure system that allows users to store documents like insurance, PAN cards, passports, and more in digital format

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Impact on India

• Boost to Private Investment: Facilitates private sector involvement in India’s digital infrastructure development.
• Enhanced Digital Ecosystem: Expected to improve India’s ICT capacity, fostering smart cities, AI, and e-commerce growth.
• Strategic Partnership: Reinforces India’s geopolitical and economic partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, promoting shared development goals.

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95% of Land Records in Rural India Digitized

Context: Rural India is shifting to digital land records, bringing a new way to manage and own land.

• Major Progress Since 2016: Around 95% of rural land records are now digitised, ensuring land ownership is more secure and easier to access for people in rural areas.

Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP)

• Program Overview: DILRMP, formerly the National Land Record Modernization Programme.
  • It was restructured in 2016 as a Central Sector Scheme, funded by the central government.
• Goal: Establish a transparent, real-time land information system to improve land use, support policy-making, and streamline transactions.
• Advantages: Reduced land disputes, minimized fraudulent transactions, data sharing with other agencies, and fewer visits to physical offices.

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Key Initiatives under DILRMP

• Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN):
  • Each land parcel receives a 14-digit alphanumeric code based on geo-coordinates.
  • Implemented in 29 states/UTs, it aids in managing real estate, resolving disputes, and supporting disaster management.
• National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS):
  • Standardizes the registration process across India.
  • Facilitates online document submission, payments, appointments, and searches.
  • Adopted by 18 states/UTs, with data sharing in 12 others.
• e-Court Integration:
  • Links land records with e-Courts for faster case resolution and fewer disputes.
  • Approved in 26 states/UTs.
• Transliteration of Land Records:
  • Records are translated into 22 languages from the Indian Constitution to overcome language barriers.
  • Currently in use in 17 states/UTs.
• Bhoomi Samman:
  • 168 districts across 16 states have achieved “Platinum Grading” for meeting core program requirements, including digitization of records and maps.

Importance of Digitizing Land Records

• Reduced Disputes and Fraud: Digitization addresses long-standing issues such as fraud, disputes, and slow manual processes.
• Easy Access to Ownership Records: With digital access, land ownership information is more transparent and helps reduce encroachments.
• Empowerment for Marginalised Communities: Improved access to land records strengthens land rights, especially for vulnerable groups.
• Enhanced Land Management: Integration with geospatial tools improves survey accuracy and planning.
• Fair Compensation: During land acquisitions or natural disasters, digital records help ensure timely, fair compensation.

Meta and ‘IndiaAI’ unveiled the Centre for Generative AI, Shrijan at IIT Jodhpur

Context: IndiaAI and Meta have announced the establishment of the Center for Generative AI, Srijan (सृजन) at IIT Jodhpur, along with the launch of the “YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building”.

Key Initiatives

• Centre for Generative AI, Srijan:
  • Location: IIT Jodhpur
  • Objective: Advance R&D in Generative AI (GenAI) and foster ethical, responsible AI development.
  • Focus: Promotes open science innovation in AI.
  • Impact: Empowers researchers, students, and AI practitioners with knowledge and tools for responsible AI development.
• YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building:
  • Collaborators: Meta, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).
  • Objective: Train 100,000 young developers and students (aged 18-30) in AI and open-source large language models (LLMs).
  • Sectors Addressed: Healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities, and financial inclusion.
• Skill Development and Resource Hub:
  • Components:
    • GenAI Resource Hub with courses, case studies, and open datasets.
    • “LLM for Young Developers” course by Meta.
    • Master Training Workshops on foundational AI concepts.
  • Unleash LLM Hackathons: Students propose AI solutions, with mentoring, seed grants, and market support for top ideas.
  • AI Innovation Accelerator: Supports 10 student-led startups working with open-source AI models through incubation and funding.

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Significance of the Collaboration

• Boosts Indigenous AI Solutions: Supports development of AI tailored to India’s specific needs, enhancing tech sovereignty.
• Strengthens AI Ecosystem: Enhances open-source AI innovation, research capabilities, and responsible deployment.
• Bridges AI Talent Gap: Trains youth in generative AI and LLMs, preparing them to address real-world challenges and boost India’s AI workforce.
• Promotes Sector-Specific AI Applications: Focus on critical areas like healthcare, education, and agriculture.
• Global AI Leadership: Aims to position India as a leader in AI, contributing to the $5 trillion economy goal.

Future Directions

• Strengthen AI Policy Framework: GenAI CoE will contribute to AI policy, standards, and ethical guidelines.
• Drive Regional and Global AI Partnerships: Collaborative innovation with global industry leaders to enhance India’s digital transformation.
• Sustain Open-Source AI Community: Fosters long-term open-source collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

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