On January 16, 2025, India marks nine years of Startup India Program, a transformative journey that began in 2016. January 16 is designated as National Startup Day.

About Startup

• In India, A startup is defined as an entity that is headquartered in India, which was opened less than 10 years ago, and has an annual turnover less than ₹100 crore.
• Exclusions: Entities formed by splitting/reconstruction of existing businesses are not considered startups.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Present Status of Startups in India

• India now ranks as the third-largest startup hub in the world, with over 100 unicorns, following the United States and China, and is followed by the UK and Germany.
• Total Startups: DPIIT-recognized startups grew from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 as of January 15, 2025.
• Women-Led Startups: 73,151 startups include at least one woman director (as of October 31, 2024).
  • 48% of startups (55,816 out of 1,17,254) had at least one woman director by December 2023.
• Employment Generation: Startups created 16.6 lakh direct jobs between 2016 and October 31, 2024.Emergence in Tier 2 and 3 Cities: Over 50% of startups emerged from tier 2 and 3 cities as of December 2023.

About Startup Mahakumbh Startup Mahakumbh is a flagship event bringing together startups, unicorns, soonicorns, investors, industry leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders. First Edition (2019): Over 500 startups, investors, and industry leaders participated. Upcoming Edition: The fifth edition is scheduled for March 7-8, 2025, in New Delhi.

Reason why India’s Startup Sector is Booming

• Supportive Government Policies: The Startup India Initiative has been instrumental in creating a robust ecosystem by providing tax benefits, easing compliance, and offering funding support like the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore​.
  • Over 1.52 lakh startups have been recognized by DPIIT, contributing significantly to job creation and innovation​.
• Expanding Digital Infrastructure: Initiatives like Digital India and the adoption of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which saw transactions exceeding ₹20 lakh crore in 2024, have provided a seamless digital backbone​.
  • India boasts the world’s lowest data costs at ₹6.7 per GB in 2023, enabling startups to reach a vast audience​.
• Large Consumer Market: India’s demographic dividend of 65% of the population under 35 years offers a significant consumer base for startups.
  • The e-commerce sector alone is projected to be worth $188 billion by 2025​.
• Thriving Talent Pool: With over 1.5 million engineering graduates annually, and policies like the National Education Policy 2020 emphasizing entrepreneurship, India provides a strong pipeline of skilled professionals​.
• Venture Capital and Funding Resilience: Despite global economic uncertainties, India’s tech startups raised $4.1 billion in H1 2024, making it the fourth-highest funded ecosystem globally​.
  • Domestic venture capital and accelerator programs like Microsoft Ventures Accelerator and SAMRIDH provide startups with mentorship and funding​.
• Emergence of Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities: Nearly 50 per cent of the country’s startups originate from Tier II and Tier III cities, including emerging hubs like Indore, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.
  • Regional policies and incentives are encouraging innovation beyond metro hubs, creating decentralized startup ecosystems.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Government Initiatives to Promote Startups in India

• About Startup India Programme
  • Launched by  the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on 16th January, 2016, 
  • It is rolled out several programs with the objective of supporting entrepreneurs, building a robust startup ecosystem and transforming India into a country of job creators instead of job seekers. 
  • Flagship Schemes Implemented Under Startup India
    • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), 2021: Provides financial assistance to early-stage startups in India. 
    • Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), 2022: Provide collateral-free funding to startups through credit guarantees for loans extended by Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs, and SEBI-registered AIFs.
    • Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) Scheme, 2016: Established with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore to provide funding support to startups through venture capitalists.
      • As of 2024, ₹7,980 crore has been committed to 99 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
    • BHASKAR (Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry) 2024:  To centralize and streamline interactions within India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
      • To foster innovation, collaboration, and growth for startups.
• Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP):
  • Lunched by: Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME)
  • Subsidy: 25% in rural areas, 15% in urban areas; higher for SC/ST/OBC/Women (35% rural, 25% urban).
  • Assisted 9.69 lakh micro-enterprises since 2008-09, generating ~79 lakh jobs.
  • Second loan scheme for expansion: ₹1 crore in manufacturing, ₹25 lakh in services.
• Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP):
  • Sub-component of DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission) by Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD)
    • Supported 3,02,825 enterprises, creating 6,26,848 jobs.
• TIDE 2.0 (Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs) (MeitY):
  • Focus on emerging tech: AI, IoT, Blockchain.
  • 51 incubators established; 1235 startups supported.
• GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups) (MeitY):
  • ₹490 crore outlay for 5 years; supports 1500+ startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Under NITI Aayog, AIM establishes Atal Incubation Centers (AICs) to provide physical infrastructure and support to startups.

Challenges to the Growth of Startups in India

• Regulatory Hurdles: Complex compliance requirements and regulatory ambiguities create barriers. 
  • For instance, debates over the classification of app-based cab services (like Ola and Uber) under the Motor Vehicles Act have led to operational uncertainties.
  • Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2024, though necessary, adds compliance burdens for startups handling user data​.
• Access to Funding: Funding remains concentrated in select regions and sectors, leaving startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities underfunded.
  • Only 149 women-led startups have received funding under government schemes like AIFs, highlighting a disparity​.
  • Global economic uncertainties, such as the funding slowdown in 2023, have also impacted capital availability​.
• Talent Retention: Startups face stiff competition from established corporations and international opportunities, leading to a brain drain.
  • A 2023 study showed that 60% of Indian tech professionals were willing to relocate abroad​.
  • Challenges in offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities further exacerbate this issue.
• Market Saturation and Hyper-Competition: Sectors like edtech and e-commerce are highly crowded, reducing profit margins and creating unsustainable cash burn scenarios.
  • Companies like BYJU’s and Unacademy have had to downsize significantly due to oversaturation​
• Infrastructure Gaps: Internet penetration in rural areas is only 37%, compared to 69% in urban areas, limiting the market reach of digital startups​.
  • Startups focused on agritech or rural services, like DeHaat, struggle to scale due to limited infrastructure and connectivity.
• Limited Geographical Spread: India has three main startup clusters—Bengaluru, Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), and Mumbai. 
  • Bengaluru, also known as India’s Silicon Valley, is India’s top city for high-growth startups, with over 40% of the country’s unicorns.
• Low R&D and Deep Tech Innovation: India’s R&D spending is only 0.7% of GDP, compared to 3.5% in the US. This restricts the growth of deep-tech startups in fields like semiconductors and biotechnology​.
  • Weak industry-academia collaboration further hampers innovation, with less than 1% of higher education institutions actively involved in research.
• Scaling Challenges: Around 90% of startups fail within the first five years due to operational inefficiencies and an inability to scale​.
  • The lack of experience in navigating growth phases, coupled with limited mentorship and market access, compounds these issues.

Way Forward to Boost Startup Ecosystem in India

• Streamlined Regulations and Compliance: Simplify tax and labor compliance for startups across sectors.
  • Expand regulatory sandboxes to sectors like edtech, healthtech, and cleantech to encourage innovation in a controlled environment.
• Enhanced Access to Funding: Strengthen domestic venture capital funds and incentivize private investments in startups.
  • Provide targeted funding support for Tier-2 and Tier-3 city startups and women-led ventures.
• Fostering Industry-Academia Collaboration: Promote joint R&D projects between startups and academic institutions.
  • Establish sector-specific research and innovation hubs to nurture deep-tech startups.
• Digital and Physical Infrastructure Development: Bridge the urban-rural digital divide to enable startups in agritech and rural sectors.
  • Develop dedicated startup hubs in emerging cities with incubators, coworking spaces, and mentorship support.
• Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Education: Integrate entrepreneurship training in higher education curricula through the National Education Policy (NEP).
  • Conduct targeted skill development programs focusing on AI, IoT, blockchain, and clean technologies.
• Government Procurement and Market Access: Mandate a percentage of government procurement for startups, similar to MSME policies.
  • Expand international startup bridges and collaborations for global market access and funding.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Conclusion

India is poised to emerge as a global leader in the startup ecosystem, driven by favorable policies, a culture of innovation, and cross-sector collaboration. As the nation envisions Viksit Bharat by 2047, startups will be instrumental in fostering economic growth, generating employment, and establishing India as an innovation hub.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Recently, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying organized the Entrepreneurship Development Conclave in Pune to empower entrepreneurs and catalyze growth in the livestock sector.

Key Highlights of the Conclave

• Objective: Uniting policymakers, federations, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs to address challenges, share solutions, and promote sustainable practices in the livestock sector.
• It provides a platform to the stakeholders to discuss challenges, share solutions, promote entrepreneurship,  provide value addition and sustainable practices to catalyze growth  for the sector.
• Inaugurations:
  • Launch of National Livestock Mission – Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP) Dashboard for project transparency.
    • Dashboard will provide an organised summary of key information of the entire project to the public.
  • Inauguration of 40 projects worth ₹545.04 crore assisted under AHIDF and NLM-EDP National Livestock Mission – Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM – EDP) 
  • Release of National Livestock Mission Operational Guidelines 2.0 and success story booklets.
• Panel Discussions: Themes include “Catalyzing Growth in the Livestock Sector” and “Role of Banks and MSMEs in Livestock Sector & Credit Facilitation”, featuring industry leaders and financial institutions.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About Livestock

• The livestock sector involves the breeding and raising of animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry for meat, dairy, wool, and other products.
• Indigenous livestock species: ICAR-NBAGR registered ten new breeds of indigenous livestock species in the country.
  • These breeds are:
    • Kathani cattle (Maharashtra), Sanchori cattle (Rajasthan) and Masilum cattle (Meghalaya); Purnathadi buffalo (Maharashtra); Sojat goat (Rajasthan), Karauli goat (Rajasthan) and Gujari goat (Rajasthan);  Banda pig (Jharkhand), Manipuri Black pig (Manipur) and Wak Chambil pig (Meghalaya).

Brief Overview: Livestock Sector of India

• The Livestock Sector is an important subsector of agriculture in the Indian economy. 
• It grew at a CAGR of 7.93 per cent during 2014-15 to 2020-21 (at constant prices). 
• The contribution of livestock in total agriculture and allied sector GVA (at constant prices) has increased from 24.32 per cent (2014-15) to 30.13 per cent (2020-21).
• The livestock sector contributed 4.90 per cent of total GVA in 2020-21.
• Livestock Population: 
• • There are about 303.76 million bovines (cattle, buffalo, mithun and yak), 74.26 million sheep, 148.88 million goats, 9.06 million pigs and about 851.81 million poultry as per 20th Livestock Census in the country.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Role of livestock in farmers’ economy

• Income: Livestock is a source of subsidiary income for many families in India especially the resource poor who maintain few heads of animals. Animals like sheep and goats serve as sources of income during emergencies to meet exigencies like marriages, treatment of sick persons, children education, repair of houses etc.
  
• Employment: A large number of people in India being less literate and unskilled depend upon agriculture for their livelihoods. But agriculture being seasonal in nature could provide employment for a maximum of 180 days in a year. The landless and less land people depend upon livestock for utilizing their labour during lean agricultural season.
• Food: The livestock products such as milk, meat and eggs are an important source of animal protein to the members of the livestock owners. The per capita availability of milk is around 459 g / day; eggs is 101 / annum during 2022-23.
• Draft: Bullocks are the backbone of Indian agriculture. Despite a lot of advancements in the use of mechanical power in Indian agricultural operations, the Indian farmer especially in rural areas still depend upon bullocks for various agricultural operations. 
• Social security: The animals offer social security to the owners in terms of their status in the society. The families, especially the landless which own animals are better placed than those who do not. Gifting of animals during marriages is a very common phenomenon in different parts of the country.

Government Initiatives in Livestock Sector

• Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF):
  • It aims to support private sector investment in building infrastructure for processing, cold chain, and value addition in the animal husbandry sector.
• National Livestock Mission (NLM):
  • The focus of the scheme is towards employment generation, entrepreneurship development; increase in per animal productivity and thus targeting increased production of meat, goat milk, egg and wool.
• Rashtriya Gokul Mission: 
  • It has been initiated by the Government with focus on development and conservation of indigenous breeds and genetic upgradation of bovine population.
• Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme(LHDCP):
  • It is implemented to address livestock diseases and enhance veterinary healthcare infrastructure. 
• Bharat Pashudhan Livestock Data Stack:
  • A digital platform for real-time livestock data collection and management to enhance productivity and traceability in the livestock sector.
• Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) For Dairy Farmers of Milk Cooperatives and Milk Producer Companies: 
  • As on 15.11.2024, more than 41.66 lakh fresh KCCs were sanctioned for AHD Farmers.
• National Mission on Bovine Productivity: 
  • A scheme to improve the productivity of indigenous cattle and buffaloes through genetic improvement, nutrition, and health initiatives.
• National Artificial Insemination Programme: 
  • A nationwide initiative to boost artificial insemination coverage for bovines, ensuring genetic enhancement and better milk yield.

Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store

Challenges in the Livestock Sector

• Low Productivity: 
  • Indian livestock productivity is lower compared to global standards due to inadequate feed, nutrition, and breed improvement.
  • Example: The average annual milk yield of Indian cattle is 1172 kg which is only about 50 per cent of the global average.
• Inadequate Processing Infrastructure: 
  • Lack of modern abattoirs, cold chains, and value-addition facilities impacts profitability.
• Disease Control: 
  • Outbreaks of diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and brucellosis continue to reduce livestock yields.
• Market Access Issues: 
  • Small-scale farmers face challenges in accessing markets and getting fair prices for their produce.
• Non-compliance in Phyto-sanitary conditions: 
  • Due to non-compliance of phyto-sanitary conditions and quality standards, the exports of livestock products do not realise its true potential.
• Access to Credit: 
  • Only 30% of livestock farmers have access to institutional credit, limiting investments in infrastructure and technology.
  • As per M.K. Jain Committee Report, livestock farmers face greater challenges in comparison to traditional agricultural farmers especially while accessing credit and livestock insurance.
• Shortage of Fodder: 
  • India with only 2.29 percent of land area of the world is maintaining nearly 10.70 percent of livestock with only 5 percent of its cultivable land under fodder production.
• Institutional Support: 
  • There is no MSP support for animal husbandry products and they lack marketing like crop-based commodities.
  • Example: Inadequate Funding at about 12% of the total public expenditure on agriculture and allied sectors, which is disproportionately lesser than its contribution to agricultural GDP. 
• Insurance: 
  • Currently, only 6% of the animal heads (excluding poultry) are provided insurance cover.
• Inadequate processing and value addition:  
  • The processing rate of buffalo meat is around 21 percent and 6 percent for the poultry due to lack of necessary infrastructure.

Way Forward

• Credit Expansion: Strengthen initiatives like Kisan Credit Card for Animal Husbandry and expand subsidized loans under the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF).
• Entrepreneurship Support: Develop incubation centers in collaboration with institutions like NABARD to train rural youth in innovative livestock practices.
• Disease-Free Zones: Establish disease-free zones through effective vaccination drives under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDC).
• Processing and Export: Incentivize private investments in processing plants and support livestock product exports under APEDA schemes.
• Technology Integration: Encourage the use of digital platforms like the e-Gopala app for animal health, nutrition, and breeding services.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Conclusion

The Entrepreneurship Development Conclave is a step forward in realizing the full potential of India’s livestock sector. By addressing structural challenges, promoting entrepreneurship, and learning from global best practices, India can transform its livestock economy. It would become sustainable, inclusive, and a globally competitive sector. 

DOWNLOAD PDF

For the first time in Indian Navy history, a frigate, a destroyer, and a submarine were commissioned on the same day, marking a significant leap toward achieving self-reliance under the “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” initiative.

The platforms commissioned were

• Frigate: INS Nilgiri
• Destroyer: INS Surat
• Submarine: INS Vaghsheer

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About INS Nilgiri

• It is a Frigate.
• Class: Nilgiri-class stealth frigate
• Built Under: Project 17A, a follow-on project of the Shivalik-class frigates currently in service.
• Key Features
  • First of seven frigates in Project 17A.
  • Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
• Equipped with:
  • Supersonic surface-to-surface missiles.
  • Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM).
• Role: Critical for anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare missions.

INS Surat

• Type: Guided missile destroyer
• Class: Fourth and final stealth guided missile destroyer under Project 15B, following INS Visakhapatnam, INS Mormugao, and INS Imphal.
• Key Features
• First Indian Navy warship to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced operational efficiency.
• Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
• Armed with state-of-the-art weapons, including:
  • Surface-to-air missiles.
  • Anti-ship missiles.
  • Torpedoes.

INS Vaghsheer

• It is a Submarine
• Class: Sixth and final submarine of the Kalvari-class built under Project 75.
• Designed and Developed By: French defence major Naval Group and Spanish state-owned entity Navantia.
• Key Features
  • Diesel-electric propulsion system.
  • Equipped with advanced Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems (to be installed from 2026) for extended underwater endurance.
• Designed for anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, area surveillance, and special operations.
• Naming: Named after Vaghsheer, a type of sandfish found in the Indian Ocean.

Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store

Comparison of Frigate, Destroyer, and Submarine

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Significance of the Commissioning

• Showcasing Indigenous Capability: The tri-commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer underscores India’s advancements in indigenous defense manufacturing highlighting the success of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in the defense sector.
  • The level of indigenisation on all the three platforms is more than 70%.
• Boosting Strategic Deterrence: Adds to India’s deterrence against regional threats and potential adversaries.
  • Reinforces the Navy’s ability to protect trade routes and national interests in contested waters.
• Enhancing Blue-Water Capabilities: The platforms expand the Navy’s capacity to operate in open ocean environments far from the coast.
  • Supports extended deployments and power projection in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
  • A Blue Water Navy is one that has the capacity to project itself over a much bigger maritime area than its maritime borders. Simply put, it is a Navy that can go into the vast, deep oceans of the world
• Strengthening Network-Centric Warfare: Incorporation of advanced sensors, AI, and network-centric systems in these vessels enhances operational efficiency and combat readiness.
• Supporting Multi-Dimensional Warfare: Provides the Navy with capabilities for anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare, along with intelligence gathering and special operations.
  • Strengthens the Navy’s ability to respond to both conventional and unconventional threats.
• Geopolitical Significance: Reflects India’s emergence as a key maritime power and a responsible regional player in ensuring peace and stability in the IOR.
  • Increases global trust in India’s capability as a “first responder” in the region during crises.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Recently, during the three-day Jallikattu event in Madurai, a bull tamer lost his life, and 75 participants sustained injuries.

• The event, part of the Pongal harvest festival, featured 1,100 bulls and 900 tamers.

About Jallikattu

• Definition: Also known as Eruthazhuvuthal, Jallikattu is a traditional bull-taming sport held during the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu.
• Variations: Vadi manjuviraṭṭu, Vēli viraṭṭu, Vaṭam manjuviraṭṭu are the variants of this sport.
• Objective: Contestants attempt to tame a bull to win a prize. If unsuccessful, the bull’s owner claims the prize.
• Cultural Significance: Celebrates nature, expresses gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and includes cattle worship.
• Regions: Popular in districts such as Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Theni, Pudukkottai, and Dindigul.
• Breed Used: Pulikulam, native to Sivagangai district, is commonly used in Jallikattu.
• Ancient Origins: References to bull taming are found in a seal from Mohenjodaro (2,500–1,800 BC).
• Tamil Literature: Jallikattu is mentioned in Silappadikaram by  Ilango, a Sangam-era Tamil epic.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Constitutional Provisions Related to Animal and Culture

• Article 48A: States must improve animal welfare, safeguard wildlife, and ensure animal population growth.
• Article 51A(g): It is a fundamental duty of citizens to show compassion for animals and protect wildlife.
• Article 21: Right to life includes animal life, emphasizing dignity and fair treatment.
• Article 29(1): Protects the cultural rights of citizens, including traditional practices like Jallikattu.
• Entry 17, List III: Allows both the central and state governments to legislate on preventing cruelty to animals.

Recent Developments

• Legal Framework: Jallikattu was banned (2014–2016) but reinstated by the Tamil Nadu government in 2017 via amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
• Supreme Court Verdict (2023): Upheld Tamil Nadu’s law allowing Jallikattu, citing its cultural importance.

Arguments For and Against Jallikattu

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Similar Sports and festivals Involving Animals 

DOWNLOAD PDF

Recently members of the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF) were detained for protesting at the Tripura Assembly entrance with demand for the inclusion of the Roman script for Kokborok in textbooks, official use  and for upcoming CBSE Board Examinations.

• This demand has been championed by tribal forums like the TSF for decades, emphasizing the need to preserve the cultural identity of Tripura’s indigenous communities.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About Kokborok

• Language: Spoken by the Borok people in the state of Tripura.
• Etymology:
  • Kok means “verbal.”
  • Borok means “people” or “human.”
• Linguistic Roots:
  • Sino-Tibetan language.
  • Part of the Tibeto-Burman group of languages, with origins in the Sino-Tibetan speech family.
• Recognition: Kokborok has been recognized as the second state language of Tripura, alongside Bengali, since 1979.
• Historical Background:
  • Documented since at least the 1st century AD in the Raj Ratnakar, the historical chronicle of Tripuri kings.
  • Originally written in its own script, Koloma, which became obsolete after the 14th century.
  • By the 19th century, the Bengali script was adopted for Kokborok in the Kingdom of Twipra.

Key Arguments for Roman Script Use

• Identity and Cultural Preservation: Advocates argue that the Roman script better reflects the phonetics of Kokborok and aligns with global linguistic practices.
• Equitable Representation: The current reliance on the Bengali script marginalizes the indigenous community’s linguistic heritage.
• Accessibility: The Roman script is considered more accessible for younger generations and aligns with technological advancements.

Key Argument Against Roman Script Use

• Historical Connection: Critics argue that the Bengali script has been used for centuries and holds historical significance for the region.
• Implementation Challenges: Transitioning to the Roman script would require extensive changes in textbooks, administrative processes, and teacher training.
• Risk of Fragmentation: Introducing a new script could create divisions between different groups within the state, leading to further linguistic and cultural conflicts.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Ongoing Efforts for Complete Adaptation of Roman Script

• Movements advocating for the Roman script began in 2004, but the government has not addressed the demands despite repeated memoranda and protests.
• Currently a section of tribal students are allowed to write their answer scripts in Roman script in their Madhyamik and HS (+2) exams.
  • The TSF has been demanding the use of only Roman script instead of the partial use of modified Bengali script for a long time
• The TSF continues to push for this change as a matter of cultural pride and identity, emphasizing its importance in preserving Kokborok for future generations.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Visitors to Nagarahole Tiger Reserve in Karnataka are likely to spot Spotted deer, whose population has steadily increased to 28 per sq. km.

About Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

• Location: Situated in the Western Ghats, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
• Water Bodies: Nagarahole River flows through the reserve and joins the Kabini River, which forms a boundary with Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
• Contiguity: Connected with Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) and Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka).
• Recognition: Identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA), a Project Tiger reserve, and a Project Elephant reserve.
• Flora: Dominated by moist deciduous forests, including teak and rosewood trees.
• Fauna: Home to tigers, leopards, Indian gaur, elephants, spotted deer, and other wildlife.
• Tribal Presence: Jenu Kurubas (honey-collecting tribe) inhabit the reserve.

Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store

About Spotted Deer (Chital)

• The spotted deer, also known as Chital (Axis axis), is one of the most common deer species in India and plays a vital role in forest ecosystems.
• Distribution
  • Native Range: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh (mainly in the Sundarbans).
  • Introduced Range: Andaman Islands (India), Argentina, Australia, Texas (USA), and other locations.
• Habitat: Found in deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands.
• Diet: Primarily grazes on grasses, leaves, fruits, and herbs, making it an important herbivore in forest ecosystems.
• Unique Habit: Exhibits placentophagy (eating placenta), a rare behavior among herbivores, aiding in predator avoidance by eliminating scent traces.
• Activity Period: Exhibits crepuscular behavior, being most active during dawn and dusk, though it occasionally forages during the day.
• Ecological Role
  • Serves as a primary prey species for large predators like tigers and leopards.
  • Aids in seed dispersal and maintains grassland ecosystems.
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN Red List: Listed as “Least Concern” due to its wide distribution and stable population.
  • Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Included in Schedule II, offering protection from hunting.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Banks in India added more deposits than loans last year, leading to a softening of the credit-deposit ratio. 

Key Highlights on Credit Deposit Ratio

• Softening of the credit-deposit ratio in 2024  to 89.5%, compared to 94% in 2023.
• Despite deposit growth lagging behind advances, the gap between fresh deposits and non-food credit widened to ₹2 trillion in 2024, up from ₹1.3 trillion in 2023.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About Credit-Deposit Ratio

• Definition: A financial metric used to assess a bank’s liquidity by comparing its total loans to total deposits for the same period.
• Representation: Indicates the percentage of deposits utilized for issuing loans.
• Calculation: Total loans issued by the bank divided by its total deposits.
• Guidelines: No specific benchmark set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI); banks manage the ratio based on liquidity and profitability considerations.

Factors Influencing Credit-Deposit Ratio (CD ratio)

• Increased Loan Demand: Higher demand for loans can raise the CD ratio.
• Deposit Mobilization: Increased deposits can lower the CD ratio if lending does not increase proportionately.
• Economic Conditions: Booms or recessions impact both loan demand and deposit growth, influencing the CD ratio.

Implications of High Credit-Deposit Ratio on Banks

• Profitability: Indicates active lending, which may enhance profitability if loans are serviced on time.
• Risk Exposure: Higher credit exposure could lead to non-performing assets (NPA) if repayments are not met.
• Pressure on Net Interest Margins (NIM): Increased reliance on lending may narrow NIM, affecting returns on earning assets like loans and investments.
• Liquidity Risks: Banks may face challenges in meeting sudden payment obligations or withdrawals due to low liquidity reserves.

Implications of Low Credit-Deposit Ratio on Banks

• Profitability Impact: Reflects insufficient lending, potentially affecting the bank’s revenue streams.
• Cautious Lending: May indicate economic uncertainty or lack of suitable lending opportunities.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Implications of Softening Credit-Deposit Ratio on Economy

DOWNLOAD PDF

The Lancet urges a shift from Body Mass Index (BMI) to better obesity metrics, emphasizing the need for accurate assessments to address rising obesity rates.

Key reforms proposed in obesity diagnosis

• Old classification system
  • Traditional Approach (Old System) Relied solely on Body Mass Index (BMI).
  • BMI over 30 was considered obese
  • This method was Simple but problematic measurement system
• New Classification System
  • Dual System: New system comprises two categories: Clinical Obesity and Pre-clinical Obesity.
    • Clinical Obesity: Considers not just physical measurements but also health impacts like heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues. 
      • It looks at how excess weight affects daily activities.
    • Pre-clinical Obesity: Identifies individuals at risk before they develop serious health issues. 
      • This allows for early intervention and promotes healthier lifestyles.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Diagnostic Tools and Implementation

• Beyond BMI: The new framework uses more advanced tools:
  • Waist Circumference: Important for spotting dangerous abdominal fat. 
    • Critical threshold for women: > 35 inches
    • Critical threshold for men: > 40 inches
      • Indicates abdominal fat risk
  • DEXA Scans: Provide accurate body fat measurements.
  • Comprehensive Health Assessments: Check cardiovascular health, metabolic markers, and joint functionality.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Includes physical activity, diet, and sleep quality.

What is obesity?

• It is a disease in which the body accumulates excess body fat (adipose tissue). 
• It occurs due to intake of more calories than burned by exercises. 
• A person having a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. 

Indian Status of obesity: 2022 v/s 1990

• Obesity among women: The Lancet study reveals that 44 million women above 20 in India were obese. 
  • Among women, the prevalence of obesity has seen a sharp rise, with 9.8 per cent now classified as obese.
    • It has increased by 8.6 percentage points since 1990.
• Obesity among men: 26 million men aged above 20 in India were found to be obese 
  • The obesity rate among men has increased to 5.4 per cent, representing a 4.9 percentage point rise over the same period.
• India’s Global Position:
  • Regarding obesity prevalence among women, India ranks 182nd out of 197 countries worldwide as of 2022.
  • For men, India holds the 180th position globally.
  • Among girls and boys, India is placed 174th on the global scale.
  • Global ranking for underweight: India holds the highest global ranking for underweight girls and the second-highest for boys.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

What is BMI?

• BMI is a medical tool that measures body fat by comparing a person’s weight and height.
• It is calculated using the formula:
  BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)
• While BMI gives an estimate of body fat, it is not always accurate.
• Healthcare providers combine BMI with other tests to assess overall health.
• Importance of Body Fat
  • Too Much Body Fat: Can cause health problems like heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes.
  • Too Little Body Fat: May lead to malnutrition, weak immunity, anemia, osteoporosis, and infertility.
  • Ideal Body Fat: Helps absorb vitamins, provides energy, regulates body temperature, and protects organs.
• BMI Classification (in kg/m²)
  • Underweight: Less than 18.5
  • Normal Range: 18.5 to 24.9
  • Overweight: 25 to 29.9
  • Class I Obesity: 30 to 34.9
  • Class II Obesity: 35 to 39.9
  • Class III Obesity: More than 40
• Limitations of BMI 
  • Cannot distinguish between:
    • Muscle mass and fat mass
    • Different body types and compositions
      • Athletic vs sedentary individuals
    • Does not account for fat distribution
    • Fails to consider individual health conditions
  • Examples of BMI limitations:
    • Athletes often classified as obese despite being healthy
    • Some people with dangerous fat levels may have normal BMI
    • Doesn’t account for age or gender difference

DOWNLOAD PDF

Israel and Hamas have agreed on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal after 15 months of war.

Key Highlights of the Deal

• The deal was reached in the Qatari capital city of Doha
• The deal has to be approved by Israel’s Cabinet to take effect.
• Mediators: The negotiations for the deal was brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the United States with them guaranteeing the implementation of the agreement.
• Phase: The ceasefire and hostage deal will be implemented in 3 phases,
  • First Phase: This phase will be conducted over the first six weeks (42 days),
    • The release of 33 hostages by Hamas (including women, children and elderly people) exchanged for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
    • Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from Central Gaza and be positioned on their borders
    • Return: The displaced Palestinians will be allowed to their residence in Northern Gaza.
    • Humanitarian Assistance:  600 humanitarian aid trucks will be allowed into the Strip on a daily basis.
  • Second Phase: Negotiations will start on the 16th day and will oversee the release of the remaining hostages and a full Israeli troop withdrawal.
  • Third Phase: It will involve the reconstruction of Gaza supervised by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations.
    • Reopening of border crossings for movement in and out of Gaza.
    • Return of any remaining hostages’ bodies.

Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store

Israel-Hamas War

• Start: Palestinian Militant group Hamas under “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” launched an attack on  Israel via land, air, and water, causing multiple casualties on 7th Oct 2023.
  • The Israeli Prime Minister declared a ‘state of war,’ launching Operation Iron Sword in response to Hamas infiltrations
• Casualties: The Hamas attack was the deadliest in Israeli history, resulting in the deaths of 1,210 people and Israel responded with its campaign killing 46,707 people, most of them civilians as per the Hamas-run health ministry.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Indian Nuclear Entities Removed from U.S. Restrictions

Context: The United States  administration has recently removed restrictions on three major Indian nuclear entities to facilitate deeper cooperation in civil nuclear energy.

• The three entities are 
  • Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
  • Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR)
  • Indian Rare Earths (IRE)

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

What is the US Entity List?

• This list is the list of foreign individuals, businesses, and organisations that are subject to specific  licensing requirements for export, reexport, and/or transfer of specified items. 
• Published by: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).
• Objective: This list prevents unauthorised trade in items that 
• Threats U.S. national security and controls the transfer of sensitive technologies and materials
  • Example: weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programmes, or other activities. 
• Being on the entity list does not mean complete ban or prohibition
  • It just acts as a regulatory barrier. 

Objectives of the New Move

• Strengthen the India-U.S. civil nuclear pact and pave the way for sharing civilian nuclear technology.
• Promote joint research, development, and collaboration in science and technology related to nuclear energy.
• Boost resilient critical minerals and clean energy supply chains.

Bhargavastra Micro Missiles

Context: India has successfully tested its first indigenous micro-missile system, Bhargavastra, designed to counter the threat of swarm drones.

About Bhargavastra Micro Missiles

• Description: India’s first indigenous micro-missile system developed to neutralize swarm drone threats.
• Developed by: Economic Explosives Ltd.

Key Features of Bhargavastra

• Detection and Guided Munitions: Detects small incoming drones over a range of 6 km and deploys guided micro munitions to neutralize threats.
• Rapid Deployment: Designed for quick deployment on mobile platforms.
• Multi-Target Engagement: Simultaneously tracks and engages up to 64 targets.
• Operational Capability: Functions effectively in all terrains, including high-altitude regions, catering to the armed forces’ needs.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

What are Swarm Drones?

• Definition: SWARM stands for “Smart War-Fighting Array of Reconfigured Modules,” comprising multiple drones working in coordination.
• Capabilities: Collective decision-making, adaptive formation flying, and self-healing without human intervention.
• Applications: Can assist in tasks like firefighting, damage assessment, and suppression using firefighting liquids.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0

Context: The 3rd edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam will begin on February 15 and conclude on 24 February.

About the Sangamam

• It is part of the government’s ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Yuva Sangam programme.
• Host city: The Sangamam will be held at the Namo Ghat in Varanasi against the backdrop of the Kumbh Mela
• Theme: The third edition will be themed on the legacy and philosophy of Maharishi Agasthyar.
• Organised By: The Union Education Ministry will be the key organiser for the event. 
• Implementing Agencies: IIT Madras and BHU 
• Objective: To rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi
• Participation: 
  • Students, teachers, and writers; Farmers and artisans; Professionals and small entrepreneurs; Women; and Start-ups, innovation, edu-tech and research.
• A document on Agasthyar temples in TamilNadu and another one on Siddha medicine will be released during the event.

About Maharishi Agasthyar

• Agathiyar Munivar is one of the 18 Siddhars, who were masters of yoga and spiritual knowledge.
• Maharishi Agathiyar is a famous figure in Indian history and mythology also known by many names like Agastya, Agathiyar Siddhar, and Agastya Munivar.
• Contribution:
  • He is considered the father of Tamil grammar and wrote the first Tamil grammar book, “Agattiyam.
    • He also contributed several hymns in the Rigveda
  • Siddha Medicine: Agathiyar Munivar contributed to the herbal medicine and healing practices, which are part of the Siddha medicine tradition still practised in South India.
  • Author: Agastya Gita found in Varaha Purana, Agastya Samhita found embedded in Skanda Purana, and the Dvaidha-Nirnaya Tantra text.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Access to Clean Toilets a Basic Right: Supreme Court

Context: The Supreme Court has in a recent order declared that easy access to clean public toilets for all is a basic right and an essential part of human dignity.

Highlights of the Judgement

• Writ Petition: The judgment came in a writ petition highlighting the lack of clean and gender-sensitive toilets in the premises of courts and tribunals across the country.
• State Duty: It is the duty of the States and Union Territories to provide easy access and maintenance  to clean washrooms and drinking water to all throughout the year.
  • A States/UT cannot claim to be a Welfare State if cannot provide access to clean toilet facilities to the three genders
• Order: The Supreme Court issued a series of directions to the States and UTs to ensure the construction and availability of separate toilet facilities for gender-sensitive washrooms and submit a status report in four months.
• Fundamental Right: Access to proper sanitation is recognised as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution 
  • The right includes ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for all individuals.

DOWNLOAD PDF