Maternal Mortality Ratio

Context: Puducherry has become the first Union Territory in India to achieve zero maternal mortality during 2024–25, earning a Platinum Certificate from the Union government.

What is the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)?

• Definition: Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, due to pregnancy-related causes, excluding accidental or incidental causes.
  • MMR is the number of maternal deaths per 1,00,000 live births
• Indicator of Healthcare Quality: MMR reflects the effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of maternal healthcare services in a country.
• SDG Target: Under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.1, India has committed to reduce MMR to 70 per 1,00,000 live births by 2030.

India’s Progress in Maternal Mortality

• Decline in MMR: As per the Sample Registration System (SRS), India’s MMR fell from 130 (2014–16) to 93 (2019–21), marking a reduction of 37 points.
• Regional Achievements: While some states have successfully reduced their MMR to levels below the SDG target of 70 per 100,000 live births.
  • Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Karnataka have already achieved this SDG target.
  • Puducherry has set a benchmark by achieving zero maternal deaths, highlighting the success of targeted maternal healthcare interventions.

Puducherry’s Initiatives for Women’s Health

• Healthcare Measures: Extensive network of Primary Health Centres (PHCs), health camps, and anaemia screening of 62,000 women.
• Empowerment Schemes: Chief Minister’s Girl Child Trust Fund, ₹50,000 insurance scheme for girl children at birth, and stamp duty concessions for women.
• Educational Support: Schemes to prevent dropouts and promote higher education among girls, with women securing over 50% of government jobs.

Significance: The achievement provides a model for other States/UTs, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat and India’s SDG health targets.

Sovereign Credit Rating

Context: Rating and Investment Information, Inc. (R&I), Japan has upgraded India’s sovereign credit rating from ‘BBB’ to ‘BBB+’ (Stable).

• This is the third upgrade in 2025, following
  • S&P: from BBB- to BBB (August 2025).
  • Morningstar DBRS: from BBB (low) to BBB (May 2025)
• These upgrades reflect global confidence in India’s robust macroeconomic fundamentals, fiscal consolidation, and medium-term growth prospects.

Credit Rating

• A credit rating is an assessment of the creditworthiness of a borrower such as an individual, company, or government, based on their ability to repay debt in a timely manner.
• Purpose: Credit ratings influence the interest rates on loans, investment decisions, and market confidence.
• Types: They can be sovereign ratings (for countries) or corporate ratings (for firms and institutions).

What is a Sovereign Credit Rating?

• Definition: Assessment by global rating agencies of a country’s ability to meet its debt obligations.
• Categories:
  • Investment Grade (BBB- and above) → safe for investors.
  • Speculative Grade (below BBB-) → riskier for investors.
• Importance: Influences borrowing costs, foreign investment flows, and investor confidence.

Key Factors Behind Upgrade (as per R&I Report)

• High-Growth Economy: India is one of the largest and fastest-growing economies globally, supported by demographic dividend and domestic demand.
• Fiscal Consolidation: Strong tax revenues, rationalisation of subsidies, and reduction in fiscal deficit despite higher capital expenditure.
• Debt Management: Manageable debt-to-GDP ratio supported by growth momentum.
• External Stability:
• • Modest current account deficit.
  • Stable surpluses in services and remittances.
  • Low external debt-to-GDP ratio.
  • Adequate foreign exchange reserves.
• Policy Support: Recognition of reforms under PM Modi’s administration, including:
  • Attracting foreign manufacturers (Make in India, PLI schemes).
  • Infrastructure development.
  • GST rationalisation 
  • Reduced reliance on energy imports and stronger business environment.

Risks Noted

• US Tariffs: Could pose challenges, but impact limited due to India’s low reliance on US exports and strong domestic demand base.
• GST Rationalisation: May lower revenues, though partly offset by increased consumption.
• Financial System Risks: Considered limited and manageable.

ICGS Adamya

Context: Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Adamya, the first vessel of the Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), is commissioned at Paradip Port, Odisha.

Key Features of ICGS Adamya

Design & Build

• Developed indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited.
• Incorporates more than 60% indigenous content, strengthening India’s self-reliance in shipbuilding.
• It is the first ship of the eight Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs).
• Displacement: ~320 tons.
• Propulsion: Powered by two 3000 KW diesel engines with indigenously developed controllable pitch propellers (CPPs) and gearboxes which provide superior manoeuvrability and operational flexibility.

Speed & Endurance

• Maximum speed: 28 knots.
• Endurance: 1,500 nautical miles at economical speed.

Weapons

• 30 mm CRN 91 gun.
• Two 12.7 mm stabilized remote-controlled machine guns.
• Supported by fire control systems.

Technology Integration

• Integrated Bridge System (IBS).
• Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).
• Automated Power Management System (APMS).
• Enhanced automation and efficiency

Symbolism: Adamya meaning “indomitable” reflects ICG’s resilience and commitment to maritime security.

Aflatoxin

Context: Indonesia suspended imports of groundnuts from India, citing aflatoxin contamination.

About Aflatoxin

• Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced mainly by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
• Conditions: Thrive in warm, humid climates
• Sources:
  • Commonly found in groundnuts (peanuts), maize, rice, cottonseed, tree nuts, spices, and oilseeds.
  • Contamination occurs during pre-harvest, post-harvest, or improper storage.
• Types:
  • Major ones: Aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2.
  • Aflatoxin B1 is the most toxic and carcinogenic.
• Health Risks:
  • Genotoxic and carcinogenic (Group 1 carcinogen, IARC).
  • Causes liver damage, acute aflatoxicosis, immunosuppression, and growth retardation.
  • Long-term exposure linked to liver cancer.
• Animal Products: Aflatoxins can also be present in milk, eggs, and meat when animals are fed contaminated feed.
• Global Concern: Strict standards are set by Codex Alimentarius Commission (FAO-WHO)
• Control Measures: Good agricultural practices, proper drying and storage, biocontrol using non-toxic strains of Aspergillus, and regular food safety inspections.

Trade & Economic Impact

• Export Dependence: Indonesia accounts for one-third of India’s groundnut exports.
  • FY 2024–25: Indonesia imported 2.77 lakh tonnes ($280 mn) out of India’s total 7.46 lakh tonnes ($795 mn) exports.
• Farmer Impact:
  • Groundnut acreage in 2025 kharif: 48 lakh ha (vs 47.65 lakh ha last year).
  • Gujarat expects record 66 lakh tonnes output.
  • Prices: ₹5,682/quintal, below MSP of ₹7,263 and thus suspension may worsen farmer distress.

About Codex Alimentarius 

• Definition: The Codex Alimentarius, or “Food Code,” is a collection of international food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice.
• Purpose: Aims to protect consumer health and promote fair practices in the global food trade.
• Global Use: Serves as a reference for harmonizing national food safety regulations worldwide.
• WTO Recognition: Recognized under the WTO Sanitary & Phytosanitary Agreement as the international benchmark for food safety.
• Impact: Ensures consumers get safe, quality food and gives importers confidence that products meet required specifications.

Yellow-Crested Cockatoos

Context: Critically endangered yellow-crested cockatoos, native to Indonesia and East Timor, have found a rare sanctuary in Hong Kong’s urban parks.

About Yellow-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea)

• The yellow-crested cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea), also called the lesser sulphur-crested cockatoo, is a medium-sized parrot 
• Appearance:
  • Small white cockatoo with a bright yellow crest.
  • Yellow wash on ear coverts, underwings, and undertail.
  • Strong curved bill and bare greyish eye-rings.
• Habitat:
  • Found in tropical and subtropical forests.
  • Prefers forest edges and open woodlands rather than dense forests.
• Distribution:
  • Native to Indonesia and East Timor, especially in Sulawesi, Lesser Sunda Islands, and surrounding areas.
  • Now exists in fragmented populations due to habitat loss and trapping.
• Food:
  • Diet consists mainly of seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, and crops such as maize.
  • Occasionally feeds on insects and larvae.
• Behaviour:
  • Social and noisy birds, often seen in pairs or small flocks.
  • Known for their intelligence, playfulness, and ability to mimic human speech.
  • Nest in tree cavities; breeding season varies by region.
• Threats:
  • Illegal wildlife trade for the pet industry is the biggest threat.
  • Habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
  • CITES: Appendix I

UNSC Resolution 1267

Context: The US, UK, and France have put on hold Pakistan’s bid to designate the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade as terrorists at the UNSC.

• The 1267 Sanctions Committee has delayed Pakistan’s proposal, as BLA is not linked to Al Qaeda or ISIL; such holds typically last around six months.

About the UNSC Resolution 1267

• Purpose: Established a UN Security Council Committee to designate individuals and entities for sanctions.
• Sanctions Measures: Includes asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargoes.
• Initial Focus: Targeted Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
• Mandate Expansion: In 2015, extended to include Islamic State (ISIL) through Resolution 2253.
• Sanctions List: As per the 2024 annual report, 255 individuals and 89 entities were listed under the Committee’s sanctions.
• Oversight: The 1267 Sanctions Committee monitors and ensures implementation of the sanctions measures globally

Who are the Baloch?

• The Baloch are an ethnolinguistic group primarily inhabiting Balochistan, spanning parts of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. They speak Balochi and have a distinct cultural heritage.
• Pre-Partition Aspirations: Before India’s partition in 1947, Baloch leaders sought autonomy or independence from British India, citing distinct ethnicity, culture, and underdevelopment of their region.
• Resource and Political Grievances: Baloch people continue to demand control over local resources and greater political autonomy, feeling marginalized by central authorities, especially in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

About Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)

• Introduction: BLA is an armed separatist group emerging in the early 2000s in Balochistan, Pakistan, claiming attacks for regional autonomy.
• Key Activities: Responsible for attacks including Karachi and Gwadar Port suicide attacks (2024) and hijacking of Jaffar Express (2025).
• Demands: Baloch militants claim that the Pakistani state has denied their impoverished province fair access to its natural and mineral resources; they seek autonomy and control over local resources.

About Majeed Brigade: It is the Suicide squad of Baluch Liberation Army.

• It is named after two brothers, Majeed Langove Senior and Majeed Langove Junior, who carried out suicide attacks in August 1974 and March 2010, respectively

India’s Stance on Baloch Issue

• India has rejected Pakistan’s allegations of supporting BLA activities in Balochistan.
• India continues to monitor developments closely due to regional security implications, given historical accusations and strategic sensitivities.

NE-SPARKS Programme

Context: Recently, the Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region interacted with Northeastern students visiting ISRO under the NE-SPARKS programme.

About NE-SPARKS Programme

• Introduction: NE-SPARKS stands for North East Students’ Programme for Awareness, Reach, and Knowledge on Space, exposing students to India’s space technology.
• Supported by:  The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) in collaboration with the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) – ISRO and the eight Northeastern state governments.
• Objective: To spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields and nurture scientific curiosity among meritorious students from the Northeast State.
• Outreach: Program targets 800 students (100 from each Northeastern state).
• • A total of four batches have visited ISRO, covering 394 students (189 male, 205 female).

Significance

• Inspiration: Students gained exposure to satellite integration, Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, and upcoming Gaganyaan mission, shaping academic aspirations.
• Inclusivity: Focuses on students from remote and underrepresented areas, emphasizing equal access to opportunities.
• Nation Building: Encourages future scientists and innovators from the Northeast to contribute to India’s advancements in space science and technology.

Kadamb Tree

Context: Prime Minister planted a Kadamb sapling, gifted by King Charles III, at his residence to mark his 75th birthday, symbolising friendship and sustainability.

• PM had previously gifted King Charles a Sonoma tree under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Initiative, highlighting Indo-UK collaboration on climate and sustainability.

About Kadamb Tree

• Introduction: The Kadamb tree (Neolamarckia cadamba), also called Burflower-tree, belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is a fast-growing tropical tree.
• Native : It is native to South and Southeast Asia, found throughout India and cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
• Features: A large, fast-growing tree that can reach up to 45 meters in height, providing shade and ecological benefits.
• Uses: Kadamb has medicinal properties, used in Ayurveda for skin, fever, and digestive ailments, and supports biodiversity and soil fertility.
• Cultural Significance: Considered sacred in Indian tradition, often associated with Lord Krishna, and celebrated for its ecological and symbolic importance.

About Sonoma tree 

• The Sonoma tree (Davidia involucrata ‘Sonoma’), a deciduous dove or handkerchief tree cultivar.
• Ornamental value: It is prized for large white bracts that bloom early (2–3 years) and heart-shaped green leaves.
• Growing Conditions: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and is hardy in Zone 6b, tolerating temperatures down to -5 to 0°F (-20 to -18°C).

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Initiative

• Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam is a tree plantation initiative encouraging individuals to plant a tree in honour of their mother, symbolising maternal care and environmental protection.
• Launched by: Prime Minister on June 05 (Environment Day) 2024.

Blue Economy

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Blue Economy as the core of India’s growth, integrating prosperity, sustainability, and national strength.

• Blue Economy 2.0 of the government of India is focusing not only on traditional sectors but also on emerging high-potential areas in the marine sector.

About Blue Economy

• The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
• National Potential: India’s 11,098 km coastline and 2.4 million sq. km EEZ provide scope for a $100 billion Blue Economy growth engine.
• India’s Initiative: Initiated several programs supporting its Blue Economy, such as the Sagarmala initiative (2016), the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in 2020, and its Deep Ocean Mission in 2021.
• Blue Economy 2.0: Launched in the 2024-2025 interim budget, to foster sustainable economic growth in its maritime sector by integrating climate resilience, coastal ecosystem restoration, and sustainable aquaculture and mariculture.

Key Components

• Fisheries & Aquaculture: Sustainable fishing practices, marine-based food security.
• Maritime Transport & Ports: Trade facilitation and logistics.
• Tourism: Eco-friendly coastal and marine tourism.
• Energy: Offshore wind, tidal, wave, and ocean thermal energy.
• Biotechnology: Marine genetic resources, pharmaceuticals.
• Minerals & Resources: Deep-sea mining, seabed resources (with ecological safeguards).

India’s Achievements under Blue Economy Initiative

Technological & Infrastructure Achievements

• Deep Ocean Mission: Enabled deep-sea exploration with Matsya submersible, discovering strategic resources and advancing marine technologies.
• Sagarmala Programme: Modernised ports to boost trade efficiency, connectivity, and global maritime competitiveness.

Economic Achievements

• Fisheries Growth: India became the second-largest fish producer with record 195 lakh tonnes in 2024–25.
• Export Gains: Fisheries exports rose from ₹46,662.85 crore (2019–20) to ₹60,524.89 crore (2023–24).

Social Achievements

• Employment Generation: PMMSY created 58 lakh jobs by 2024, surpassing its 55 lakh target.
• Women’s Empowerment: 99,018 women benefited from ₹4,061.96 crore financial assistance under PMMSY (2020–25).
• Community Empowerment: Initiatives promote seaweed farming and eco-friendly tourism, diversifying income streams for coastal women.
• Financial Support: PMMSY offers up to 60% assistance (₹1.5 crore/project), promoting gender-inclusive entrepreneurship.

DOWNLOAD PDF