Recently, the Union Government launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) to promote its pet project of natural farming. 

• The NMNF will be a standalone centrally-sponsored scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and it will have a total outlay of ₹2,481 crore.

About Natural Farming

• Natural Farming is a chemical-free and livestock-based farming approach.
• It integrates crops, trees, and livestock, promoting biodiversity and agro-ecological balance.
• It is considered a form of regenerative agriculture globally, focusing on restoring soil health and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• It was introduced by Masanobu Fukuoka in his book The One-Straw Revolution (1975).
• It is promoted in India as Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati Programme (BPKP) under Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) to encourage traditional practices and minimize external inputs.

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Comparison of Natural Farming, Conventional Farming, and Organic Farming

Challenges of Natural Farming

• Reduction in yields:
  • Farmers in regions like Sikkim, which transitioned to organic farming, reported a decline in yields.
  • The lower productivity has led some farmers to revert to conventional farming methods.
• Uncertain Economic Benefits:
  • While Natural Farming helps maintain soil fertility, its ability to boost productivity and increase farmers’ incomes remains inconclusive.
  • Yield fluctuations discourage many farmers from adopting this approach.
• Difficulties in Preparing Inputs:
  • Preparing bio-inputs such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit requires time, effort, and resources, which many farmers find challenging.
  • The lack of readily available natural inputs often forces farmers to depend on external suppliers, increasing costs.
• Nutrient Deficiencies:
  • Studies suggest that natural inputs may provide fewer nutrients compared to chemical fertilizers, particularly in high-input farming systems.
  • Over time, large-scale nutrient deficiencies could result in reduced yields, threatening food security.
• Farmer Resistance to Change:
  • Shifting from chemical-based farming to Natural Farming requires significant changes in mindset and practices, which many farmers are reluctant to adopt.
  • A lack of awareness and training further hampers the transition process.
• Infrastructure Challenges:
  • The availability of bio-input resource centers is limited, making it difficult for farmers to access essential inputs.
  • Certification and branding mechanisms for natural farming produce are not well-developed, limiting market access and profitability.

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Significance of Natural Farming

• Economic Benefits:
  • Natural Farming reduces the cost of production by minimizing the need for expensive chemical inputs.
  • It creates employment opportunities in rural areas through enterprises for natural input preparation, value addition, and local marketing.
• Health Advantages:
  • Since Natural Farming does not use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, it eliminates health risks associated with chemical exposure.
  • The produce from Natural Farming has higher nutritional value, which benefits both farmers and consumers.
• Environmental Sustainability:
• • Natural Farming restores soil fertility and enhances biological activity in the soil.
  • It promotes biodiversity by integrating crops, trees, and livestock into the farming system.
• Climate Resilience:
  • Natural Farming enhances the resilience of crops to extreme weather conditions like droughts, floods, and cyclones.
  • It uses sustainable practices, such as organic carbon addition and plant diversity, to strengthen soil structure and improve long-term farming viability.
• Livestock Integration:
  • Livestock plays a crucial role in Natural Farming by providing eco-friendly inputs such as cow dung and urine for preparing bio-fertilizers like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.

Government Initiatives to Promote Natural Farming in India

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY):
  • The scheme was launched in 2015 as part of the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).
  • This scheme promotes organic farming and natural farming practices.
  • It provides financial assistance to farmers for adopting organic and natural farming practices.
  • It also supports certification and market linkages for organic and natural produce.
• Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati Programme (BPKP)
• • Launched under Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) to promote traditional and indigenous farming practices.
  • Aims to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides by encouraging the use of bio-inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
  • Focuses on preserving soil health and reducing the cost of cultivation for farmers.
• Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)
  • Promoted as part of government initiatives to reduce farmers’ dependency on costly chemical inputs.
  • Focuses on using locally sourced inputs and natural techniques to minimize production costs.
• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER):
  • It was launched during 2015-16 and has helped in bringing 1.73 lakh ha area under organic farming benefiting 1.89 lakh farmers.
  • This scheme specifically targets the North Eastern Region of India.
  • It promotes organic farming and value addition to organic products.
  • It provides financial assistance for infrastructure development, capacity building, and market linkages.
• Madhya Pradesh’s Organic Farming Model
  • Madhya Pradesh has been promoting natural farming practices under its Prakritik Krishi Padhati program. 
  • The state encourages the use of organic fertilizers, reduced chemical dependency, and crop rotation.
• Sikkim Organic Farming
  • Sikkim, India’s first fully organic state, adopted natural farming on a large scale. The state completely eliminated the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, promoting organic farming practices.
  • The government provides support for certification, training, and market linkages for organic products.

Key models of Natural Farming

Masanobu Fukuoka’s “Do-Nothing Farming”

• Fukuoka’s approach, also known as “Do-Nothing Farming”, focuses on minimizing human intervention in farming processes, relying on natural cycles and allowing the land to regenerate itself.
• Core Principles:
  • No plowing, no fertilizers, no pesticides, and no irrigation.
  • Emphasizes soil health, biodiversity, and natural pest control.
  • Encourages a holistic approach where crops, weeds, and pests are seen as part of the natural ecosystem, allowing the land to sustain itself.

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Subhash Palekar’s Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)

• ZBNF is a farming method developed by Indian agriculturist Subhash Palekar, aimed at making farming financially viable and environmentally sustainable without the need for external inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.
• Core Principles:
  • Zero cost input: Uses locally available natural resources like cow dung, urine, and other organic materials for fertilizers and pesticides.
  • Soil health: Focuses on improving soil through practices like mulching, crop rotation, and composting.
  • Livestock integration: Livestock is central to the model for providing natural inputs and maintaining soil fertility.
  • Water conservation: Implements techniques like mulching to conserve soil moisture.

Korean Natural Farming (KNF)

• Korean Natural Farming (KNF) is a method developed by Cho Han Kyu that emphasizes the use of indigenous microorganisms (IMOs) and natural inputs to enhance soil health and crop productivity.
• Core Principles:
  • Focuses on creating indigenous microorganisms (IMOs) to boost soil health.
  • Uses natural inputs like fermented plant extracts, fish amino acids, and composting techniques.
  • Emphasizes biodiversity and ecosystem health rather than synthetic chemicals.

Permaculture Farming

• Permaculture is a holistic farming system designed to create sustainable agricultural ecosystems by mimicking natural systems.
• Core Principles:
  • Design farm systems to be self-sustaining and reduce external input.
  • Emphasizes biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation.
  • Integration of animals, plants, and natural cycles for a balanced ecosystem.

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Conclusion

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) aims to promote sustainable, chemical-free farming, enhancing soil health, food security, and farmer resilience. Its success depends on addressing challenges like farmer training, infrastructure, and market access, with strong policy support and participation.

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Recently, scientists found evidence that desertification leads to large amounts of nutrient-rich dust landing in the Indian-Ocean, south east of Madagascar, causing phytoplankton (Algae) bloom.

About Phytoplanktons

• Definition: Phytoplanktons are tiny microscopic plants that float in water bodies and serve as primary producers in aquatic ecosystems.
• Role in Ecosystem: They perform photosynthesis, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

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• • They are found near the water’s surface due to their reliance on sunlight.
  • They include a variety of marine autotrophs such as diatoms, dinoflagellates, green algae, and blue-green algae.

• • They are mighty carbon sinks in their own right. They capture about 37 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (that’s an estimated 40 per cent of all CO2 produced!) and produce at least 50 per cent of all oxygen in our atmosphere.
• Chlorophyll and Photosynthesis:
  • Phytoplankton biomass is studied by analyzing Chlorophyll-a, the primary pigment used in photosynthesis.
  • Photosynthesis: The process by which light energy is converted into chemical energy through the synthesis of organic compounds.
  • Types of Chlorophyll:
    • Chlorophyll a: Found in higher plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.
    • Chlorophyll b: Found in green algae and higher plants.
    • Chlorophyll c: Found in diatoms, dinoflagellates, and brown algae.
    • Chlorophyll d: Exclusive to red algae.

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Phytoplankton Blooms

• Definition: Phytoplankton blooms refer to the exponential growth of phytoplankton, which can change the color of the water due to their dense population.
• Causes of Blooms:
  • Eutrophication: Excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, promote algal growth.
  • Temperature: Warmer water temperatures, typically in summer or fall, encourage blooms.
  • Turbidity: Low turbidity allows sunlight to penetrate deeper into the water, enhancing growth.
• Impacts of Blooms:
• • Positive:
    • Enhance the marine food web by increasing zooplankton and fish populations.
    • Act as temporary carbon sinks, absorbing atmospheric CO₂ during photosynthesis.
  • Negative:
    • Produce biotoxins that can bioaccumulate in marine food chains.
    • Deplete oxygen levels in water, creating hypoxic “dead zones.”

Indian Ocean Bloom (2019-2020)

• A rare and unprecedented phytoplankton bloom occurred south-east of Madagascar during November 2019–January 2020.
  • The bloom covered ~2,000 km² and was detected using satellite technology that identified chlorophyll presence.
• Causes:
  • The bloom was caused by nutrient-rich dust from drought-stricken regions in southern Africa, such as the Etosha salt pans, Namib Desert, and Kalahari pan belt. 
  • The dust was transported by winds and deposited into nutrient-deficient waters by intense rainfall events.
• Impacts:
  • Potential increase in zooplankton and fish populations due to the abundant food supply.
  • High photosynthesis rates during the bloom transformed the region into a significant carbon sink, absorbing large amounts of CO₂.

Link to Global Warming

• Trends:
  • Rising air temperatures, increasing aridity, and higher dust emissions in southern Africa may lead to more frequent blooms.
  • Events like droughts and megafires (e.g., in Australia) contribute aerosols and nutrients to oceans, enhancing blooms.
• Potential Benefits: Dust fertilization of oceans may help mitigate global warming by temporarily increasing carbon absorption.
• Concerns: Further research is required to understand long-term ecological and climatic impacts.

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Significance for Climate Regulation

• Phytoplankton blooms highlight the interconnectedness of terrestrial and marine ecosystems in the context of global warming.
• While blooms can act as natural carbon sinks, their negative effects on marine ecosystems require careful management.

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According to rating agency ICRA, growth in the non-banking financial company (NBFC) sector is likely to slow from 18% in 2024 to 13-15% in the coming year, driven by a combination of factors such as rising interest rates, regulatory measures, and funding constraints.

About NBFC

A Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) is a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956 that provides various financial services similar to banks but is not a bank.

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Key Role of NBFCs

• Credit and Loans: NBFCs offer a wide range of loans, including personal loans, home loans, car loans, and business loans. They cater to both individuals and businesses, especially those who may not be eligible for traditional bank loans.
• Investment Services: They provide investment services like mutual funds, insurance, and portfolio management.
• Financial Advisory Services: NBFCs offer financial advice and consultancy services to individuals and businesses.
• Payment Services: Some NBFCs provide payment services, such as credit cards and digital wallets.
• Financial Inclusion: NBFCs play a significant role in financial inclusion by reaching out to underserved segments of the population, particularly in rural areas.

Challenges for NBFC

• Moderation in Growth: Growth in the NBFC sector is projected to slow from 18% in FY24 to 13-15% in FY25, driven by rising interest rates, regulatory measures, and funding challenges (as per ICRA).
• Decline in Bank Funding: Bank funding to NBFCs declined from 22% (April 2023) to 15% (April 2024).
• Regulatory caps by SEBI, such as limiting ISIN issuance to nine per year, restrict fundraising flexibility.
• A shallow domestic bond market with low liquidity and limited retail investor participation hampers funding options.
• NBFCs rely on Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs), commercial papers, securitisation, co-lending, and external commercial borrowings (ECBs) for funding.
• Rising Credit Costs: Credit costs for NBFCs and MFIs expected to increase from 2.6% in March 2024 to 4% by March 2025, pressuring profitability.
  • Smaller NBFCs and those with lower credit ratings face the brunt due to limited funding options and higher borrowing costs.
• Potential in Priority Sector Lending (PSL): NBFCs can play a significant role in financing agriculture and unorganised sectors under PSL.
  • Co-lending models between NBFCs and banks present cost-effective opportunities for growth and asset acquisition.
• Overseas Borrowing: Lower US Federal Reserve rates and hedging costs make ECBs attractive for NBFCs, but adoption remains at an early stage.
• Sector Size and Fundraising: NBFC sector AUM to cross ₹50 lakh crore in FY25 from ₹47 lakh crore in March 2024.
  • ₹3.23 lakh crore raised in H1 FY25, a marginal 3.11% y-o-y increase, with private-sector NBFCs contributing ₹1.91 lakh crore.

RBI’s Recommendations and Actions

• RBI’s recent steps to regulate NBFC growth stem from concerns over asset quality and systemic risks in the sector.
• Government and regulators aim to deepen the bond market to enable diversified funding sources for NBFCs.
• Focus on PSL through co-lending models and risk-sharing with banks aligns with India’s financial inclusion goals.
• Increased risk weights for loans to NBFCs by 25 basis points (November 2023), making borrowing from banks costlier.
• Focused on compliance, risk management, and addressing customer grievances.
• Discouraged large NBFCs from lending to smaller NBFCs and fintechs to prevent systemic risks.
• Encouraged prudent growth and long-term sustainability

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Differences between NBFCs and Banks

Main factors driving the growth of NBFCs in India

• Digitalization: Rise of Neo-banks offering convenient and accessible financial services through mobile apps.
• Focus on Underserved Markets: NBFCs cater to niche segments like MSMEs, rural populations, and women entrepreneurs.
• Technological Advancements: Adoption of AI and Machine Learning for faster loan approvals, improved risk management, and personalized offerings.
• Evolving Regulatory Landscape: RBI’s initiatives promote responsible lending practices and foster financial inclusion through NBFCs.

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Way Forward

• Embrace Technology: Leveraging big data analytics for customer insights, risk assessment, and product development.
• Focus on Customer Experience: Providing a seamless and personalized customer journey to retain existing customers and attract new ones.
• Partner with Banks: Strategic collaborations with banks can unlock new growth opportunities by combining expertise and resources.
• Specialize and Innovate: Targeting niche segments effectively and developing innovative financial products to meet evolving customer needs.

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Maldives Monetary Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions.

Key purpose of the MoU

• To establish a framework encouraging the use of the Indian Rupee (INR) and Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) in:
  • Current account transactions.
  • Permissible capital account transactions.
  • Other mutually agreed economic and financial activities.

About Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS)

• LCSS is a bilateral arrangement between two countries that allows them to settle trade transactions directly in their own currencies, reducing reliance on a third currency like the US dollar.
• This system aims to reduce transaction costs, minimize foreign exchange risks, and promote bilateral trade.
• India has implemented LCSS with several countries, including:
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): India and the UAE have established an LCSS to facilitate trade in their respective currencies, reducing dependence on the US dollar.
  • Other Potential Partners: India is exploring LCSS arrangements with other countries, particularly those in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, to further diversify its trade and reduce currency risks.

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Benefits of using local currency

• Facilitate Trade: Exporters and importers can invoice and settle in their respective domestic currencies.
• Development of Currency Pair Market: Promotes trading in the INR-MVR currency pair in the foreign exchange market.
• Cost and Time Efficiency: Optimises transaction costs and reduces settlement time.
• Strengthens economic ties between India and the Maldives while enhancing ease of doing business for bilateral trade.

India-Maldives Economic Relations

• Strong Economic Ties: India and Maldives share strong economic ties, underpinned by geographical proximity, historical links, and cultural affinities.
• Significant Trade: Bilateral trade between the two countries has been steadily increasing. 
  • India Exports to Maldives was US$586.97 Million during 2023, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.
• Indian Investments: India is a major investor in the Maldives, with significant investments in infrastructure, tourism, and other sectors.

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Recently, the Supreme Court  dismissed petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the 42nd amendment by which the words ‘secular’ and ‘socialist’ were added to the Preamble of the Constitution.

Key Highlights of the case

• The petitions, filed in 2020, contested the inclusion of the terms ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ in the Preamble via the 42nd Constitution Amendment (1976).
• They argued that:
  • The Constituent Assembly deliberately excluded the term ‘secular’.
  • The term ‘socialist’ restricted the government’s economic policy choices, undermining the people’s democratic will.
• Petitioners claimed the retrospective addition (effective from November 26, 1949) constituted a fraud on the Constitution.

Supreme Court’s Observations

• The Supreme Court Bench, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, defined ‘secular’ as a Republic that upholds equal respect for all religions.
• ‘Socialist’ was interpreted as a Republic committed to eliminating all forms of exploitation—social, political, and economic.
• The court dismissed the petitions, deeming the arguments flawed and unworthy of detailed adjudication.
• The timing of the petitions, filed 44 years after the amendment, raised questions about the motives behind them.
• The court emphasized that the Preamble is an inalienable part of the Constitution.
• It reaffirmed that Parliament has unquestionable authority under Article 368 to amend the Constitution.

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Key terms in Preamble of the Indian Constitution

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Recently, Israel and its allies denounced the International Criminal Court’s decision to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Key Highlights on the Arrest Warrant

• ICC Arrest Warrants: The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, sparking international debate.
• Support to the Warrant: United Kingdom and Canada said that they would “abide” by the arrest warrant issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• Continued Hostilities: The violence reflects escalating tensions between Israel, Gaza, and neighboring regions, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.

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About the International Criminal Court (ICC)

• The International Criminal Court (ICC) is the first permanent international court established to investigate and prosecute individuals accused of serious international crimes.
• Establishment and Headquarters: The ICC was adopted by 120 states on July 17, 1998, through the Rome Statute, and officially took effect on July 1, 2002. 
• Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands.
• Jurisdiction: The Rome Statute grants the ICC jurisdiction over four main crimes:
  • Genocide
  • War crimes
  • Crimes against humanity
  • The crime of aggression
• The ICC can only deal with crimes committed on or after July 1, 2002.
• Membership: The ICC has 124 member states. However, several major countries, including India, the United States, China, Russia, and Israel, are not parties to the Rome Statute.
  • Palestine became the 123rd member in 2015.
  • Malaysia became the 124th member in 2019.
• Languages: The ICC operates in six official languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.
• Enforcement: The ICC’s decisions are binding; however, it lacks its own police force. The enforcement of its decisions relies heavily on state cooperation, which is critical for the arrest and surrender of suspects.
• Relation with the United Nations: The ICC is not a United Nations organization but maintains a cooperation agreement with the UN.

Immunity under the Rome Statute

• General Rule (Article 27): Under Article 27 of the Rome Statute, no individual, including a head of state or government, is immune from prosecution before the ICC.
  • The principle emphasizes equality before the court, ensuring that no official capacity grants immunity.
• Exception (Article 98(1)): An exception to Article 27 exists for officials from states that are not members of the ICC, such as Israel.
  • ICC member states cannot be compelled to arrest or surrender such officials if it conflicts with their international obligations regarding immunity.
• Acceptance of Jurisdiction (Article 12(3)): Article 12(3) of the Rome Statute provides that a state not party to the Statute can accept the court’s jurisdiction over a specific crime.
  • The state must make a declaration to the Registrar and agree to cooperate with the ICC without delay or exception.

Key Features of ICC rulings

• Binding Decisions: The ICC’s rulings must be upheld by its members.
• Limited Enforcement Mechanisms: Without its own police force, the ICC depends on the willingness of states to enforce its decisions.
• Independent Status: While not part of the UN, it collaborates with the organization under a formal agreement.

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ICJ Vs ICC

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The Supreme Court granted the Centre four weeks to decide on Balwant Singh Rajoana’s mercy petition. 

Key Highlights of the Case

• Matter of the case: The mercy petition is for the death sentence awarded to Rajoana  in 2007 for the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995.
• Current Status: Rajoana filed a fresh plea for the commutation of his sentence, with the SC directing the Centre to decide within the given timeframe.

About Mercy Petition

• A mercy petition is a formal request made by an individual sentenced to death or imprisonment, seeking clemency from the President of India (under Article 72) or the Governor of a State (under Article 161). 
• This power allows for pardons, reprieves, respites, remissions, or commutations of sentences.

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Famous Mercy Petitions in India

• Yakub Memon Case (1993 Mumbai Blasts) :Yakub Memon, a key conspirator in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, was sentenced to death. He filed a mercy petition before the President of India, which was rejected. 
• The Dhananjoy Chatterjee Case (1994): A death row convict who sought mercy from the President. His case sparked debates on the death penalty and the role of mercy petitions.
• The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case (1991): Several convicts involved in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi filed mercy petitions, raising questions about justice and the death penalty.
• The Nirbhaya Case (2012): The four convicts in the brutal gang rape and murder case sought mercy from the President, leading to widespread protests and discussions on the judicial process and capital punishment.

Constitutional Provisions for Mercy Petition

• Article 72 (President’s Power): The President has the authority to grant clemency in the following cases:
  • Court-Martial Sentences: For punishments or sentences awarded by military courts.
  • Union Law Offences: For offences against laws related to matters under the Union’s executive power.
  • Death Sentences: In all cases involving the death penalty.
• Article 161 (Governor’s Power): The Governor can exercise similar clemency powers for offences against laws related to matters under the State’s executive power.
• Supreme court power: The Supreme Court’s power to review mercy petitions is not explicitly mentioned in the Indian Constitution. 
  • However, it is derived from its inherent power of judicial review under Article 32 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to constitutional remedies.
  • SC can review the exercise of the power of pardon by the Governor or President and quash it if found to be arbitrary or mala fide.

Difference in Power of Governor and President in Mercy Petitions

Key Features of Mercy Powers

• No Time Limit: Articles 72 and 161 do not prescribe a specific time frame for deciding mercy petitions.
• Discretionary Nature: These Articles do not impose any obligation on the President or Governor to accept all mercy petitions.
• Broad Scope: Mercy can include pardons, reprieves , respites,remissions  or commutations.

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Process of Filing a Mercy Petition

• There is no statutory written procedure for filing or processing a mercy petition.
• Receives Petitions: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) receives mercy petitions addressed to the President.
• Scrutiny: MHA examines the petition, case records, and recommendations from the concerned state government.
• Recommendations: MHA prepares a detailed report and recommends a course of action to the President.
• President’s Decision: The President, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers, makes the final decision on the mercy petition.
• Communication: MHA communicates the President’s decision to the concerned authorities.
• The President is not bound by the advice of the Council of Ministers, but in practice, the recommendations of the Ministry of Home Affairs are usually followed.

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MACE telescope is a state-of-the-art ground-based gamma-ray telescope inaugurated in Hanle, Ladakh.

Key Features of MACE

• World’s Highest Imaging Cherenkov Telescope: Located at around 4.3 km above sea level it boasts a 21-metre-wide dish, making it Asia’s largest imaging Cherenkov telescope and second-largest globally.
• Advanced Construction and Technology
  • Features 356 honeycomb-structured mirror panels, each coated with silicon dioxide for environmental protection.
  • High-resolution camera equipped with 1,088 photomultiplier tubes to amplify faint signals.
  • Mounted on a 180-tonne structure with an altitude-azimuth system, enabling movement along both horizontal and vertical planes for wide-sky coverage.
• Ground-Based Detection of Gamma Rays: Utilizes Cherenkov radiation produced when cosmic gamma rays interact with the Earth’s atmosphere.
  • Operates as an Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescope (IACT), using indirect techniques to study high-energy gamma rays (>20 billion electron volts).

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• Indigenous Development: Designed and developed in India by institutions like Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).

Applications and Research Objectives

• Study of High-Energy Gamma Rays: Investigates gamma rays from exotic cosmic phenomena like pulsars, supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.
  • Aims to analyze gamma rays beyond the Milky Way, including emissions from blazars and gamma-ray pulsars.
• Dark Matter Research: Seeks evidence of weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs), a potential constituent of dark matter.
  • Helps explore gamma rays generated from WIMP annihilation in galaxy clusters or near the Milky Way’s center.
• Contribution to High-Energy Astrophysics: Provides insights into particle physics, gamma-ray astronomy, and cosmology.
  • Supports validation of existing theories or challenges prevailing hypotheses about the universe’s fundamental structure.
• Technological Advancements in Astronomy: Sets a precedent for ground-based gamma-ray observatories globally and paves the way for future collaborative research and advancements in Indian astrophysics.

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Hanle in Ladakh as an ideal location for an observatory 

• Clear Skies: Hanle enjoys a high number of clear nights throughout the year, minimizing atmospheric interference.
• High Altitude: The high altitude reduces atmospheric turbulence, leading to sharper and clearer astronomical observations.
• Dry Climate: The arid climate minimizes the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere, which can obscure celestial objects.
• Dark Skies: The remote location and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for observing faint celestial objects.
• Stable Atmosphere: The stable atmospheric conditions reduce the blurring effect on astronomical images.

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Cabinet approved the continuation of Niti Aayog’s flagship initiative Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), with an enhanced scope of work and allocated budget of Rs 2,750 crore, till March 31, 2028.

About AIM 2.0

• AIM 2.0 is the second phase of the Atal Innovation Mission, aimed at further strengthening India’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
• Overall Goal: To create a more inclusive, efficient, and impactful innovation ecosystem that drives economic growth and societal development.

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Key Objectives of AIM 2.0

• Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI): This initiative will promote innovation in India’s 22 scheduled languages, lowering barriers for non-English-speaking innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors.
• Frontier Program: Develop innovation ecosystems in underserved regions.
• Human Capital Development: Train professionals to support the ecosystem.
• Deeptech Reactor: Foster deep-tech startups.
• State Innovation Mission: Assist states in building their own ecosystems.
• International Innovation Collaborations: Promote global partnerships.
• Industrial Accelerator: Facilitate industry-startup collaborations.
• Atal Sectoral Innovation Launchpads (ASIL): To create platforms for government-startup partnerships.

About Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

• Launched in: 2016
• Objective: To build and promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across various levels – schools, universities, research institutions, MSMEs, and industries.
• Implementing Agency: NITI Aayog

Major Initiatives of AIM

• Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs): Setup in schools to foster curiosity, creativity, and design thinking with tools like robotics kits, 3D printers, and AI/ML tools. It aims to cultivate a problem-solving mindset among students.
• Atal Incubation Centers (AICs): It provides infrastructure, mentorship, and funding to startups in diverse sectors to foster world-class startups and strengthen the incubation ecosystem.
• Atal New India Challenges (ANICs): Bridges innovation with practical, real-world applications to encourage product innovations that cater to specific needs of industries, sectors, and government ministries.
• Mentor India Campaign: Collaboration with public/private sector professionals and institutions to guide and support AIM initiative through nationwide mentorship network.
• Atal Community Innovation Centers (ACICs): Promote community-centric innovation in underserved and unserved areas (e.g., Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities).
  • Empower local entrepreneurs and innovators to address regional challenges.
• Atal Research and Innovation for Small Enterprises (ARISE): It facilitates partnerships between industries, government, and academic institutions to encourage innovation and research among MSMEs.
• Monitoring and Management: All AIM initiatives are systematically monitored using real-time MIS systems and dynamic dashboards, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.

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Significance of AIM

• AIM promotes inclusivity by reaching Tier 2/3 cities and rural areas, ensuring equitable access to innovation opportunities.
• It strengthens India’s position as an innovation-driven economy while fostering entrepreneurial growth and addressing societal challenges.

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Even as loan write-offs by scheduled commercial banks reduced by 18.2 per cent in the financial year 2023-24, over one-fifth of the banks saw an increase in the amount of the loans written-off in the year ended March.

Trends in Loan Write-Offs

• Banks with Rise in Write offs: Official data for the top ten banks in terms of the highest amount of loans written off in FY24 showed that six out of the top ten banks.
  • Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, HDFC Bank, Bank of India, Indian Bank and Axis Bank recorded an increase in the loan write-offs during the year.
• Overall Decline in Write-Offs: Loan write-offs by scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) declined by 18.2% in FY24, amounting to ₹1.70 lakh crore, compared to ₹2.08 lakh crore in FY23.
• Five-Year Write-Off Data: Total write-offs during FY20–FY24 amounted to ₹9.90 lakh crore, showing a general decline, barring a spike in FY23.
• Gross NPAs as of March 31, 2024: ₹4.81 lakh crore, a decrease from ₹5.72 lakh crore in March 2023.
  • Top contributors in NPA are State Bank of India (₹84,276 crore) and Punjab National Bank (₹56,343 crore)
• Decline in Recovery Rates: Recovery in FY24 was at a three-year low of ₹1.23 lakh crore (-22.8% compared to FY23).
  • While overall loan write-offs and NPAs declined in FY24, recovery rates fell significantly, raising concerns about efficiency in recovering bad loans.

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About Loan Write-Off

• Loan write-off is the process of removing bad loans from the books of banks after making adequate provisions for them.
• Implication: Writing off a loan means it will no longer be counted as an asset on the bank’s balance sheet.
• Significance: By writing off loans, banks can reduce the level of non-performing assets (NPAs) on their books.
• Borrower Liability: Loan write-offs do not absolve borrowers of their repayment obligations, nor do they imply that banks stop pursuing recovery from them.
• Purpose: Loan write-offs are done to clean up the balance sheet of banks and reflect their true financial position.
• RBI Guidelines: Banks write off fully provisioned loans after four years.

About Non-Performing Assets (NPA)

• Non-performing assets (NPAs) refer to loans or advances of a bank that are in default or arrears.
• Criteria for NPA Classification: A loan is in arrears when principal or interest payments are late or missed. 
  • It becomes an NPA when the interest and/or installment of the principal remains overdue for more than 90 days.

Classification of Non-Performing Assets

• Sub-Standard Assets: Assets classified as NPAs for a period less than or equal to 12 months.
• Doubtful Assets: Assets that have been non-performing for a period exceeding 12 months.
• Loss Assets: Assets deemed uncollectible, where there is little or no hope of recovery, and require full write-off.

Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) 

• ARCs are specialized financial institutions that purchase Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) from banks and financial institutions.
• Role in NPA Resolution: ARCs help banks clean up their balance sheets by acquiring bad loans and attempting to recover the funds through various strategies.
• Recovery Methods: ARCs employ strategies like restructuring loans, asset sales, legal actions, and debt recovery to maximize recovery.
• Regulation: ARCs are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest
    Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act).

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Evergreening of loans 

• Evergreening of loans is a practice where banks extend new loans or additional credit to borrowers who are struggling to repay their existing debt. This is done to prevent loans from being classified as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) or bad loans.
• While it might temporarily mask the issue, it can lead to serious problems like:
  • Hiding the true financial health of banks: It can create a false impression of the bank’s financial health.
  • Deteriorating asset quality: It can increase the risk of defaults and further damage the bank’s balance sheet.
  • Distorting financial indicators: It can lead to inaccurate financial reporting and decision-making.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken steps to curb this practice and promote better lending practices.

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Convention to Adjourn House after Obituary Reference to Sitting Member

Context: Parliament officials clarified that it was a convention to adjourn the House for a short duration after obituary reference to a sitting Member. 

• Before, the convention was to adjourn the House for the entire day in the event of the death of a sitting member.

About Obituary Reference

• It is made in the House at the earliest available opportunity after the news about the death of a member, ex-member, Minister, etc. either from a press report or a sitting member or a relation of the deceased or any other reliable source.

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PAN 2.0 Project

Context: The Union Cabinet recently approved the PAN 2.0 Project, an upgraded version of the Permanent Account Number (PAN).

Aim

• To modernize taxpayer registration services and make PAN a common business identifier.

Key Features of PAN 2.0 Project

• QR Code-Enabled PAN Cards: The upgraded PAN cards will feature a QR code for improved security and functionality.
• Common Business Identifier:PAN will serve as a unified identifier for businesses, eliminating the need for multiple identification numbers across government systems.
• Service Delivery Transformation: PAN 2.0 will re-engineer business processes and upgrade the digital backbone for taxpayer registration services.
• Wide Coverage and Adoption: Out of the 78 crore PAN cards issued to date, 98% belong to individuals, indicating the project’s vast potential reach and impact.
• Cost-Free Upgrade: The new QR code-enabled PAN cards will be issued at no cost to existing PAN holders, encouraging widespread adoption.

Nayi Chetna 3.0

Context: Recently, the Union Minister of Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare launched the third edition of Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki. 

About Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki

• It is a national campaign against gender-based violence. 
• Organizer: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• Scope: All Indian States and Union Territories.
• Focus: Grassroots engagement through the extensive Self-Help Group (SHG) network under DAY-NRLM.
• Collaborative Effort
  • Whole-of-Government Approach: Involves participation of 9 Ministries and Departments, including:
    • Ministry of Women and Child Development.
    • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
    • Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • Ministry of Panchayati Raj, among others.
• Slogan: “Ek Saath, Ek Awaaz, Hinsa Ke Khilaaf” (Together, One Voice, Against Violence).

Raja Raja Chola I

Context: Recently, the 1039th birth anniversary of the legendary Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I was celebrated.

• This celebration is celebrated every year during the Sadhaya Vizha in Thanjavur of Tamil Nadu.

Sadhaya Vizha: A Grand Celebration

• Celebrated annually during the Tamil month of Aippasi (mid-October to mid-November) in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
• Legacy of Raja Raja Chola
  • Revered for expanding the Chola empire to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
  • His life inspired Kalki Krishnamurthy’s novel Ponniyin Selvan and its film adaptation.
  • Sadhaya Vizha reflects his enduring influence on Tamil culture and heritage.

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About Raja Raja Chola I

• Raja Raja Chola I (947-1014 CE), born Arulmozhi Varman, was a legendary Tamil emperor.
• Known for his military strength and administrative brilliance.
• His reign (985–1014 CE) marked cultural, architectural, and territorial advancements.
• He was given many important titles
  • Mummidi Chola: Representing his rule over three crowns.
  • Jayankonda: Meaning “The Victorious King.”
  • Sivapadasekara: Showing his devotion to Lord Shiva.
• Cultural and Religious Ceremonies
  • Festivities take place at Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the emperor.
  • Key rituals include:
    • Sacred Abhishekam: Holy bath for the deity, Lord Peruvudaiyar (Shiva).
    • Perundeepa Vazhipaadu: Reverence through lamp-waving.
    • Swami Purappadu: Procession of the temple deity.
  • Devotees gather to witness classical dances, hymn singing by odhuvars, and performances by artists dressed as Hindu gods.
• Historical Significance of Brihadeeswarar Temple,
  • Built by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 CE.
  • Known as Rajarajesvaram, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Great Living Chola Temples.
  • Symbolizes the architectural, cultural, and religious legacy of the Chola Empire.
• Architectural Grandeur
• • Constructed entirely of granite, showcasing remarkable engineering techniques of the era.
  • Features a towering vimana (temple tower) that stands over 60 meters tall.
  • The temple’s central deity is Lord Shiva, revered as Peruvudaiyar.

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