PIB

Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

Context: In the Union Budget 2025-26, the Finance Minister announced several new initiatives for the agriculture sector, including the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana.

About Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

The scheme will be launched in partnership with states through the convergence of existing schemes and specialised measures.
No separate allocation has been made for the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, however, there are allocations for existing schemes which are to be converged:

Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated for the mission for pulses.
Rs 500 crore for the mission for vegetables and fruits.
Rs 100 crore support for the Makhana Board.
Rs 100 crore for the mission on hybrid seeds.
Rs 500 crore for the cotton technology mission.
In phase 1, It will be launched in 100 districts with low crop productivity, moderate crop intensity and below-average credit parameters.
- It is expected to benefit 1.7 crore farmers spread across the targeted districts.
- The scheme draws inspiration from the Aspirational Districts Program and would drive focused reforms to uplift farmers in underdeveloped agricultural regions.

Key focus of PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

Enhance agricultural productivity
Adopt crop diversification and sustainable agriculture practices
Augment post-harvest storage at the panchayat and block level
Improve irrigation facilities
Facilitate availability of long-term and short-term credit.

Components:

Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program:

It aims at addressing under-employment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy.
The goal is to generate ample opportunities in rural areas so that migration is an option, but not a necessity.
The programme will focus on rural women, young farmers, rural youth, marginal and small farmers, and landless families.
Global and domestic best practices will be incorporated and appropriate technical and financial assistance will be sought from multilateral development banks.

Aatmanirbharta in Pulses:

The government will launch a 6-year mission with a special focus on Tur, Urad and Masoor.
The Mission will place emphasis on development and commercial availability of climate resilient seeds; enhancing protein content; increasing productivity; improving post-harvest storage and management and assuring remunerative prices to the farmers.
Central Agencies (NAFED and NCCF) will procure these 3 pulses, as much as offered during the next 4 years from farmers who register with these agencies and enter into agreements.

Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits:

A comprehensive programme to promote production, efficient supplies, processing, and remunerative prices for farmers will be launched in partnership with states.
Appropriate institutional mechanisms for implementation and participation of farmer producer organizations and cooperatives will be set up.

Grameen Credit Score: Public Sector Banks will develop the ‘Grameen Credit Score’ framework to serve the credit needs of SHG members and people in rural areas.

PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Context: Nearly a year after the Central Government launched the ₹75,000-crore PM Surya Ghar scheme, 8.5 lakh households have installed rooftop solar connections.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Scheme based questions and status of solar energy in India.

About PM Surya Ghar scheme

PM Surya Ghar Scheme is to boost the proportion of rooftop mounted solar plants share in India to 40% of solar target of India i.e., 100 GW.
Objectives of Scheme:
- Aim: To install rooftop solar panels in 1 crore (10 million) households across India.
- The scheme ensures up to 300 units of free electricity per month for households installing rooftop solar panels.
Subsidy Details: Central Financial Assistance (CFA) will be provided, as follows:
- 60% of system cost (solar unit cost) for 2 kW systems
- 40% of additional system cost for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity.
- CFA will be capped at 3 kW capacity.
Assistance through National Portal:
- Households will apply for subsidy through the National Portal and will be able to select a suitable vendor for installing rooftop solar.
- The National Portal will assist the households in their decision-making process by providing relevant information such as appropriate system sizes, benefits calculator, vendor rating etc.

Major highlights of the scheme

Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of 60% of system cost for 2 kW systems and 40% of additional system cost for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity will be provided.
The CFA will be capped at 3 kW.
The households will apply for subsidy through the National Portal and will be able to select a suitable vendor for installing rooftop solar.
The National Portal will assist the households in their decision-making process by providing relevant information such as appropriate system sizes, benefits calculator, vendor rating etc.
Households will be able to access collateral-free low-interest loan products of around 7% at present for installation of residential Rooftop Solar (RTS) systems up to 3 kW.

Other Features of the Scheme

A Model Solar Village will be developed in each district of the country to act as a role model for adoption of rooftop solar in rural areas.
Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions shall also benefit from incentives for promoting RTS installations in their areas.

Outcome and Impact

Households will be able to save electricity bills as well as earn additional income through sale of surplus power to DISCOMs.
It will result in addition of 30 GW of solar capacity through rooftop solar in the residential sector.
It is expected to reduce 720 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions over the 25-year lifetime of rooftop systems.
It is estimated that the scheme will create around 17 lakh direct jobs.

Status of Renewable energy in India

India has shown an incremental trend in renewable energy, with a 200% rise in 10 years i.e., 72.52 GW in 2014 to 220 GW in 2024.
In this Solar sector has cumulatively reached to 97.86 GW:
- Ground mounter 75.19 GW
- Grid rooftop solar plant 15.67 GW
- Hybrid project 2.77 GW
- Off-grid solar installation 4.23 GW.

Challenges and Suggestive measures for Solar Sector in India

Challenges in Solar sector in India	Solutions and suggestive measures
Skewed distribution in the sector which is dominated by the Ground mounted centers leading to issues like: - Problems in land acquisition - High investment cost	Diversification of the sector: Sector needs to be diversified by enhancing decentralised solar plants with roof mounted and farm mounted solar plants.
Financing barriers: The solar plants are expensive creating additional burden on households	Providing subsidies to households to enhance installation by reducing the cost. Eg; PM Surya Ghar Scheme.
Dependence on imports: The solar sector depends on imported equipment like solar wafers leading to continuity challenges in price and supply chain.	India should invest on the permanent infrastructure for manufacturing of the solar wafers. Eg; Production Linked Incentives.
Intermittent energy generation: The solar energy is weather dependent challenging the continuity of the power challenging concept of sustainable power.	There should be an integration of various powers like hydro, wind and solar power for a sustainable and continuous energy supply. Eg; Green Grid initiative concept.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Defence

Relevance of the Topic: Mains: Detailed question on scope, and challenges regarding AI use in the Defence sector.

AI and Defence Integration in India

India is at the nascent stage of integration of AI with military technology. One such example is the Indrajal drone defence system.
Institutional framework: India has launched an institutional framework for inducting AI with the military in 2022.
- Defence Artificial Intelligence council chaired by the Defence Minister of India to to provide necessary guidance and structural support.
- Defence AI Project Agency (DAIPA) has been created under the Chairmanship of Secretary Department of Defence Production (DDP) for enabling AI based processes in defence Organisations.
Listing priorities: In 2022, the government published a list of 75 priority projects related to using AI for defence; these focused on data processing and analysis, cyber security, simulation and autonomous systems, particularly drones.
AI embedded centers in armed forces: AI-application centres embedded in each of the three armed-service branches – at the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering, Mhow (Army), the INS Valsura (Navy) and Air Force Station Rajokri (Air Force).

Scope of AI in Defence sector

Autonomous systems:
- Defence: AI driven autonomous systems can aid armed forces in difficult operations and prevent casualties. E.g., Indrajaal system on drone defence is based on an autonomous AI system; AI-enabled Robot Sentries.
- Offence: Can be used to conduct precision strikes and support armed forces in offence. E.g., AI-powered killer robots and Armed UAVs; AI-embedded guided missiles (determines target’s range and adjust flight patterns without human intervention).
- Surveillance: AI-embedded radars, satellites, software-identification systems can aid in geospatial analysis, detection of illegal or suspicious activities and alerting authorities. E.g., Indian Army uses facial recognition system ‘Project Seeker’ for monitoring, surveillance, and garrison security.
Cyber-security: AI can be utilised to timely detect and launch a counter attack on cyber attack.
Data Analysis: Defence data is complex like intelligence data, enemy movement, previous trends and strategy analysis can be done effectively with use of AI.
Predictive maintenance: AI can be utilized for predicting the maintenance needs to prevent failure during crucial operations.
Simulations and training: AI can generate multiple and complex hypothetical situations to train soldiers and operatives for unpredictable threats.

Risks and Challenges Associated:

Security risks: AI based defence technologies are susceptible to hacking and cyber attacks leading to catastrophic results.
Ethical questions: AI based decision making in defence can cause collateral damage creating questions of accountability in case of unintended harm.
Interoperability issue: Integrating AI across diverse military platforms (aircraft, naval ships, ground vehicles) is complex. Existing systems might not be compatible, limiting its effectiveness.
Bias and poor data quality: AI systems rely on data for training, and if the data is biased or incomplete, AI models can produce flawed decisions. E.g., biased training data could lead AI inappropriately identifying enemy targets based on incomplete intelligence.
Legal issue: AI based operations lack the global consensus, as AI is not subjected to the Geneva convention, unlike traditional wars and conflicts.

Conclusion: AI in the military offers significant potential for enhancing capabilities, including autonomous systems and cybersecurity. However, it also faces challenges such as security risks, ethical concerns, and technical limitations. A balanced approach involving robust research, international cooperation, and ethical considerations will ensure that AI serves as a strategic asset for defense.

Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) Report, 2024

Context: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released the 6th edition of the ‘Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) 2024’ Report, ranking various states on the parameter of logistics performance.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Index and report based questions.

About LEADS

The index is an indicator of the efficiency of logistical services necessary for promoting exports and economic growth.
The report divides states into:
- Three broad criteria i.e., Achievers, Front movers and Aspirers, based on their performance.
- Groups: Coastal, Landlocked, North-Eastern, and Union Territories.
The report ranks states on the basis of four key pillars -- Logistics Infrastructure, Logistics Services, Operating and Regulatory Environment, and the newly introduced Sustainable Logistics.

Performance of States (2024)

Achievers:
- 13 States and Union Territories bagged the top rank of ‘achievers’, topped by Gujarat.
- Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Front Movers: Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Dadar and Nagar Haveli, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep and Puducherry.
Aspirers: Kerala, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andaman and Nicobar and Ladakh.

Key Recommendations

Presently, India's logistics cost is 13-14 per cent of GDP which is extremely high.

LEAD Framework: Report suggests logistics sector to adopt LEAD framework – Longevity, Efficiency and Effectiveness, Accessibility and Accountability and Digitalisation of processes to transform the logistics sector.
Public Private Partnership: The report suggests public private partnership as the key tool to enhance logistic performance of India.
Technological support: The report claims AI, Big Data and satellite communication as vital tools to boost logistic performance.
Green Logistics initiatives: There is an advocacy to support green initiatives like hybrid fuel and electric vehicles for logistics to make a smooth transition in the logistic sector.

PM Internship Scheme

Context: As per the Union Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the pilot scheme of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme has received approximately 6.21 lakh applications against 1.27 lakh opportunities under the scheme.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme.

About Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme

The scheme was announced in the Budget 2024-25.
Initiative of: Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Aim: To provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in top 500 companies in five years.
A Pilot Project of the Scheme targeted at providing 1.25 lakh internship opportunities has been launched for the Financial Year 2024-25.

Selection of Companies:

The internship opportunities span 24 sectors, including oil, gas, energy, travel, hospitality, automotive, banking and financial services, etc.
The companies selected for this pilot were identified based on their corporate social responsibility (CSR) expenditure over the past three years, ensuring that participants are placed in organizations that are committed to social and ethical practices.
Other companies, banks, or financial institutions can also participate with approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), particularly if they represent underrepresented sectors.
If a partner company cannot provide internship opportunities directly, it may collaborate with: Companies in its forward and backward supply chain (e.g., suppliers, customers, vendors).

Eligibility:

The Pilot Project offers a 12-month internship program designed for youth aged 21 to 24 years, specifically for Indian nationals who are not employed full-time or engaged in full-time education.
Internships can be applied for through the PM Internship Portal (Managed by Ministry of Corporate Affairs)
Candidates who have passed High School or Higher Secondary School, have a certificate from an ITI, have a diploma from a polytechnic institute. Graduated with degrees such as BA, B.Sc, B.Com, BCA, BBA, B.Pharma, etc.

Exclusion:

Graduates from premier institutions like IITs, IIMs, National Law Universities, IISER, NIDs, and IIITs along with holders of qualifications such as CA, CMA, CS, MBBS, BDS, MBA, or any master’s or higher degree are not eligible.
Those undergoing skill, apprenticeships, internships, or student training under Central or State government schemes along with Individuals who have completed apprenticeships under National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) or National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) are ineligible.
A candidate is deemed ineligible if the income of any of the family members exceeds Rs 8 Lakh for FY 2023-24.
Family members of permanent or regular government employees are also excluded.

Financial Assistance:

Interns will receive a monthly stipend of ₹5,000 throughout the internship duration.
- This consists of: ₹500 contributed by partner companies, contingent on attendance and conduct.
- The remaining ₹4,500 will be provided by the government via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the intern’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account.
Additionally, a one-time grant of ₹6,000 will be disbursed after joining the internship, also through DBT.
All interns will be covered under the government’s insurance schemes: Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, with the premium paid by the government.
Training Costs i.e. expenditures associated with the training of interns under the Scheme, would be borne by the company from its CSR funds, as per the extant rules.

Significance:

Scheme provides an opportunity to the interns to get training, gain experience and skills within the real-life environment of the businesses or organizations that helps in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, in turn, assisting enhancement of her/his employability.
By partnering with leading companies across diverse sectors, the initiative aims to enhance employability and skills among participants.
With clear eligibility criteria and structured support through Direct Benefit Transfers, this program not only fosters professional growth but also encourages active participation from businesses committed to corporate social responsibility.

Key Initiatives in the field of Skill development:

STRIVE Project focuses on entrepreneurship and mentoring in ITIs and NSTIs.
PM-JANMAN initiative targets skilling and uplifting vulnerable tribal groups.
SANKALP - marginalized communities receive support for entrepreneurship
Initiatives under the Skill India Mission [Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)}
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) - offers short-term skill training
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra’s (PMKK) - standardizes quality training across India.
- Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) - target non-literate and rural populations,
- Pradhan Mantri YUVA Yojana - promotes entrepreneurship.
- Skill India Digital (SID) - introduces AI-driven tools for job matching and continuous learning.
- The PM Vishwakarma Yojana - supports traditional artisans by modernizing their skills and integrating them into global markets, ensuring sustainable livelihoods.

NITI Aayog proposes S.A.F.E. Accommodations

Context: The NITI Aayog recently released a report “S.A.F.E. Accommodation - Worker Housing for manufacturing growth” suggesting the Central Government to build mega housing projects near manufacturing plants where industrial workers could rent a room for as low as Rs 3000.

Relevance of the Topic: Mains: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States. (S.A.F.E. Accommodations for Workers)

India’s Manufacturing Aspirations:

India aims to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP (from the current 17% to 25%) and become a global manufacturing hub, as part of its vision for ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
As per the Economic Survey 2023-24, India needs to add 7.85 million jobs every year until 2030 to sustain economic growth. A productive workforce is central to attain the vision.
India needs to create more jobs for women and increase Female Labour Force Participation Rate. In India, women contribute only 18% to the GDP. (In China, women’s contribution to GDP is around 41%)

Issues due to Inadequate Housing near Industrial hubs:

High Attrition rates and Increased workforce instability
Reduced Labour productivity
Limits Labour mobility (restricts migration of workers)
Poor Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFP)

Why S.A.F.E. Accommodation Matters?

Enhance Workforce Productivity
- Lower commute time
- Affordable housing for workers
- Improves workers’ quality of life
- Enables labour mobility
Win-Win-Win Scenario:
- S.A.F.E. accommodation for labour, Increases FLFP rate.
- Lower attrition rate, lower recruitment costs and stable workforce for Companies.
- Promotes planned Urban development.
- Ensures attractive returns on investment for Private developers.
- Promotes competitiveness of the Indian manufacturing sector & attracts global investment.
- Aligns with Global Labour Standards (E.g., ILO Labor Welfare Conventions)

Note:

Factories Act, 1948: Mandates basic welfare amenities for workers which can be extended to housing. (As per the Act: Factories employing more than 150 workers must provide and maintain adequate and suitable shelters/restrooms, and lunchrooms for the use of workers)
Social Security Code, 2020: Consolidates the laws relating to social security benefits including housing to all employees either in the organised, unorganised or any other sectors.

Challenges in Scaling Up Worker Accommodation:

Restrictive Zoning Laws: Residential developments are often prohibited in industrial zones unless explicitly permitted.
Restrictive Building Laws: Low Floor Area Ratios (FAR) and other inefficient land-use regulations limit the potential for high-capacity housing on available land.
High Operating Costs: Hostel accommodations in industrial zones are often classified as commercial establishments, leading to higher property taxes and utility rates.
Financial Viability: High capital costs and low returns make large-scale worker accommodation projects unattractive to private developers.

Proposed Solutions by NITI Ayog:

1. Regulatory Recommendations:

Classification of S.A.F.E Accommodation: S.A.F.E accommodation should be classified as a distinct category of residential housing. This classification would ensure:
- GST Exemption for accommodations meeting specified criteria (E.g., ₹20,000 per person per month for a continuous stay of 90 days).
- Residential Rates: Application of residential property tax, electricity, and water tariffs to reduce operating costs.
Long-term, dormitory-style affordable accommodations designed exclusively for industrial workers, located near their workplaces.
Zoning Reforms: Allow ‘mixed land use’ in industrial zones or designate ‘SAFE accommodation as a permitted use in industrial zones’ to enable construction of working houses close to workplaces.
Environment Clearance Exemption: Include S.A.F.E. accommodations under the exemptions provided for industrial sheds, schools, colleges, and hostels in the draft notification issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

2. Financial Recommendations:

Provision of Viability Gap Funding (VGF):
- Provide up to 30-40% of the total project cost (excluding land) through VGF, with 20% contributed by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) and 10% by the sponsoring nodal ministry (MoHUA). Additionally, State Governments may provide a VGF up to 10%.
- Amend Annexure 3 of the VGF scheme to include affordable rental housing as an eligible sector.
Retrofitting Existing Facilities: The VGF can also be leveraged to retrofit / upgrade existing brownfield workers’ accommodation facilities.
Competitive Bidding: Determine VGF support through a transparent and competitive bidding process.

Conclusion: As India progresses towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, addressing workers accommodation challenges is a priority. By aligning the regulatory and financial frameworks, India can unlock the potential for sustainable worker housing solutions that would bolster the manufacturing ecosystem, enhance workforce productivity, and attract global investments.

World Solar Report 2024

Context: The World Solar Report 2024 by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) was released in November.

Relevance of the Topic Prelims: Key understanding of broad trends in the Solar Energy Sector; International Solar Alliance.

Major Highlights of the Report:

Surge in global solar capacity: Solar capacity represents three-quarters of all renewable capacity additions worldwide. From 1.22 GW in 2000, the world’s solar capacity has surged to 1,419 GW in 2023.
Increasing Investments: The report highlights the global shift toward sustainable energy, with energy investments rising from $2.4 trillion in 2018 to $3.1 trillion by 2024.
Increased Installed capacity: As of 2023, China dominates solar PV as 43% (609 GW) of the cumulative capacity of solar panels installed globally is from China. The U.S. contributes 10% (137.73 GW). Japan, Germany, and India each captured a 5-6% share.
Solar Manufacturing: Solar PV manufacturing has nearly doubled in capacity for wafers, cells, and modules in 2023. China maintained the highest share in component manufacturing in 2023, with 97% in wafers, 89% in cells, and 83% in module installation capacity.
Employment generation: Employment in the solar PV sector rose to 7.1 million jobs in 2023, up from 4.9 million in 2022 worldwide.
Advancement in Solar Technology: There is 24.9% efficiency in solar PV modules, an 88% reduction in silicon usage since 2004, and a 90% drop in utility-scale solar PV costs, fostering resilient, cost-effective energy solutions.

New Solar Technologies:

Quantum dot solar cells have achieved an efficiency of 18.1%, offering a promising approach to enhance solar energy capture and power atmospheric water harvesting technologies.
Self-healing solar panels (presently under development) to extend the lifespan and reduce the maintenance of existing solar cell technologies.
Solar-powered phyto-mining uses solar energy to power the extraction of valuable metals from soil-using plants, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional mining practices.
Solar paver blocks integrated with building infrastructure and BIPV (Building Integrated PV), like transparent solar panels, allow light transmission and visibility.
The solar sector is also prioritising recycling panels and implementing circular economy practices to minimise environmental impact.

About International Solar Alliance:

The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris in 2015 by India and France, and came into force in 2017.
Aim: Global deployment of over 1,000 GW of solar generation capacity and mobilisation of investment of over US$ 1000 billion into solar energy by 2030.
It seeks to bring together the countries which lie either completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn for harnessing solar energy.
The membership of the ISA has now been extended to UN member countries as well (presently 120+ members).
Initiatives by ISA:
- Global Solar Facility (GSF): A fund formed by ISA to stimulate investments into solar power projects.
- One Sun One World One Grid: OSOWOG envisions building and scaling a transnational electricity grid to share solar energy across the globe, leveraging the differences of time zones, seasons, resources, and prices between countries and regions.
Secretariat: Gurugram, Haryana, India.

International Cooperative Alliance

Context: The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) General Assembly and the ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024 is scheduled to take place from November 25th to November 30th, 2024 at New Delhi.

Relevance of the topic: Prelims- Key facts about the ICA as an organisation.

Major Highlights:

It will be for the first time in 130 years that both the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference are going to be hosted by India.
The Global Cooperative Conference is being hosted by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) in collaboration with ICA, and Government of India, and Indian Cooperatives AMUL and KRIBHCO.
The UN International Year of Cooperatives 2025 will also be launched.

About International Cooperative Alliance (ICA):

ICA is a non-governmental cooperative organisation founded to unite, represent and serve cooperatives worldwide.
Founded in 1895 in London during the first International Cooperative Conference.
It is one of the oldest non-governmental organisations and one of the largest ones measured by the number of people represented i.e., 1 billion cooperative members on the planet.
HQ: Brussels, Belgium
Four regional offices: Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe.
Membership: Over 306 organisations from 105 countries (including India), covering cooperatives in various sectors, including, cooperatives in agriculture, banking, consumer services, fisheries, health, housing, insurance, and industry and services.

Mission:

Developing business relationships and partnerships among its members.
Organising a rich diversity of regional and international events where organisations meet regularly to share ideas.
Facilitating training programmes, events, and publications developed in partnership with cooperative development agencies.

Other Facts about ICA:

It has decadal strategic plan ICA 2020-2030 Strategic Plan, named “A People-Centred Path to a Second Cooperative Decade”,
It also organises the Global Cooperative Conference.

About Global Cooperative Conference (GCA):

It is a biennial event bringing together leaders from cooperative sectors across the globe.
India is hosting the 2024 edition for the first time.
Theme for 2024: Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All
The International year of Cooperatives 2025 will also be launched with the theme “Cooperative build a better world”. This initiative will highlight the transformative role cooperatives play in promoting social inclusion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

Hydrogen as an alternative fuel: Explained

Context: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has exempted export-oriented green hydrogen projects from its domestic solar module manufacturer list (ALMM), allowing them to use cheaper imported solar modules.

Major Highlights:

The ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) is a registry of domestically produced solar modules approved by the Indian government to promote the use of locally made products in solar energy projects.
- By granting the exemption to export-oriented green hydrogen projects from ALMM, the MNRE allows green hydrogen projects set up for export purposes (in Special Economic Zones or Export-Oriented Units) to use imported solar modules instead of the more expensive domestic ones.
- This exemption is intended to reduce the production cost of green hydrogen, making it more competitive with cheaper, carbon-intensive grey hydrogen. The lower costs can help green hydrogen producers compete globally and drive export growth.
In addition to cost-reduction measures, MNRE is supporting the green hydrogen sector through initiatives like the SIGHT programme, with Rs 17,490 crore allocated for electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
The ministry has also waived transmission charges for 25 years and exempted green hydrogen projects from prior environmental clearance. Further, it has notified 73 green hydrogen standards for production and application of Green hydrogen.

Hydrogen as an alternative fuel

Hydrogen is the lightest and the most abundant element in the universe. On Earth, it is found in compounds like water or hydrocarbons. However, Hydrogen is not present in the free state. Therefore, it must be created and stored before it tends to be utilised.
Hydrogen Fuel: Hydrogen fuel is produced by splitting water (H₂O) into its components: hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂). The hydrogen gas can be used to power fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, releasing only water vapour as a byproduct.

Owing to its clean combustion, producing only water as a byproduct, makes it an attractive option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Thus, Hydrogen is gaining significant attention as a potential alternative fuel.

Ways of using Hydrogen as a fuel:

Hydrogen Fuel Cell: Fuel cells based on Hydrogen and Oxygen. Produces Water as a by-product.
Hydrogen CNG (Used as transportation fuel): Mixture of hydrogen and CNG in a fixed ratio, enables Hydrogen being used as fuel in conventional engines. HCNG increases the efficiency of combustion of CNG and is less polluting.

Types of Hydrogen

Hydrogen can be produced from a variety of resources, such as natural gas, nuclear power, biomass, and renewable power like solar and wind. Hydrogen is an invisible gas. Depending on the type of production used, different colour names are assigned to the hydrogen.

Some common types of Hydrogen

Grey hydrogen: Grey hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels such as natural gas or coal. Grey hydrogen accounts for roughly 95% of the hydrogen produced in the world today.
- The two main production methods are steam methane reforming and coal gasification. Both of these processes release carbon dioxide (CO2).
- If the carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, then the hydrogen produced is referred to as grey hydrogen.
Blue Hydrogen: Blue hydrogen is similar to grey hydrogen, except that most of the CO2 emissions are sequestered (stored in the ground) using carbon capture and storage (CCS).
- Capturing and storing the carbon dioxide instead of releasing it into the atmosphere allows blue hydrogen to be a low-carbon fuel.
- Blue hydrogen is a cleaner alternative to grey hydrogen, but is expensive since carbon capture technology is used.
Green Hydrogen: Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced using electricity from clean energy sources, such as wind and solar energy, which do not release greenhouse gases when generating electricity.
- Green hydrogen is made when water (H2O) is split into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) via a process known as electrolysis.
Pink Hydrogen: Pink hydrogen is produced through electrolysis of water but using energy from nuclear power, which does not produce any carbon dioxide emissions.
- Pink hydrogen facilities can achieve a high capacity factor due to the steady base-load profile of nuclear power (involving both stability and density), as compared to the intermittent supply from renewable sources (solar, wind).
Turquoise Hydrogen: Turquoise hydrogen is made using a process called methane pyrolysis. In this process methane is split into hydrogen and solid carbon with heating in reactors or blast furnaces.

Utility of Hydrogen fuel

why hydrogen? zero emission efficient energy carrier

Abundant in nature and highly efficient. E.g., Hydrogen is two to three times more efficient than petrol.
Hydrogen is a versatile fuel which can be transported as gas by pipelines or in liquid form like LNG and can be transformed into electricity by fuel cells.
Strengthen energy security by being a direct replacement of fossil fuels.
Green hydrogen can be stored for a long period and can be used when renewable energy is not available for power generation with stationary fuel cells or hydrogen-ready gas turbines.
Green hydrogen is a clean fuel which can decarbonise a range of sectors including iron and steel, chemicals, and transportation.
Facilitate acceleration to the green economy. Presently, hydrogen is used in the refining industry, ammonia making, methanol manufacturing, steel making industries etc.

Challenges in using Hydrogen as a fuel

High production cost: Majority of hydrogen at present is extracted by energy-intensive processes like breaking down fossils, electrolysis of water etc. which adds to the cost of production of Hydrogen. Further, Hydrogen needs to be kept at a stable minus 253°C (far below the temperature of (-) 163°C at which Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) is stored), which needs scaling of technology and makes its ‘prior-to-use-cost’ extremely high.
Extraction causes pollution: Production of grey hydrogen is responsible for around 830 million-tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
Safety of hydrogen fuel tanks: Hydrogen is highly flammable and explosive in nature, it is colourless, odourless, and its flames are not visible by naked eyes.
Storage capacity requirement: India has insufficient storage capacity for the current state of domestic consumption.
Lack of operational fuelling station infrastructure is a big barrier to adoption of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. It would require large-scale investments in underground piping and underground caves and filling stations.

National Hydrogen Mission

The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched in January 2023, with an outlay of Rs. 19,744 crores from FY 2023-24 to FY 2029-30.
Aim: To develop India into a global hub for production, usage and export of Green hydrogen and its derivatives.
The scheme envisages generation of hydrogen from green power sources with a target of 5MMT production capacity of Green Hydrogen per annum.
Initiative of: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

National green hydrogen mission outcomes

Way Forward

Development of technology to produce "green" hydrogen is expensive. However, falling prices for renewable energy and fuel cells and stringent climate change regulations have spurred investment in the sector.

Investing in R&D and promoting private sector participation in the hydrogen economy.
Developing standardised procedures, rules and standards for hydrogen economy which will standardise and scale up production.
Mandating large users of hydrogen to shift to green hydrogen such as refineries, iron, and steel plants etc. For example, A minimum green hydrogen mandate can be introduced in such industries.
Green hydrogen facilities can be created at sites where the cost of producing renewable energy is lowest. E.g., In Thar desert region in Rajasthan and Ladakh etc.
Facilitating international trade in clean & green hydrogen.

Hydrogen fuel can significantly contribute to clean energy transition and India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission is the right step in that direction.

Project PARI

Context: The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on the occasion of 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, hosted by India for the first time, has initiated Project PARI (Public Art of India). The session of the World Heritage Committee is being held at the Bharat Mandapam International Exhibition and Convention Centre (IECC), New Delhi.

About World Heritage Committee

The logo of the 46th World Heritage Committee meeting is inspired by World Heritage Site of Hampi (Karnataka).
The stone chariot from the Vijaya Vittala Temple is a testament to India’s architectural grandeur and sculptural prowess.
The tagline of the logo is “सह नौ यशः which means in English as May our Glory Grow”.
The tagline has been derived from the ancient Sanskrit scripture ‘Taittiriya Upanishad’ which is the testament to our ancestor’s wish of growth to one and all.

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It is a committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization that selects the sites to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger, defines the use of the World Heritage Fund and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties.
It comprises representatives from 21 state parties, that are elected by the General Assembly of States Parties for a four-year term.
These parties vote on decisions and proposals related to the World Heritage Convention and World Heritage List.
The World Heritage Committee meets once a year for an ordinary session to discuss the management of existing World Heritage Sites, and accept nominations by countries.

About Project Public Art of India (PARI):

Introduction:

Public art spaces of India are a reflection of our Lok Kala and Lok Sanskriti. Public Art is very dynamic and is an intersection of past, present, and future.
The art form which is freely accessible to the public, attracts not only attention but even thoughts begin to gather as to why this work of art is here, what is its uniqueness, what material it is made up of, and what is the thought of the artist behind this artwork.
Thus, making it open to various interesting interpretations.

Project PARI:

Lalit Kala Akademi, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, has invited more than 150 visual artists from all over the country.
The aim is to provide a platform to uplift the aesthetic and cultural outlook of Delhi while adding grandeur to the rich historical legacy of our national capital.
Lalit Kala Akademi and National Gallery of Modern Art seek to bring forth public art that draws inspiration from millennia of artistic heritage (lok kala/lok sanskriti) while incorporating modern themes and techniques.
These expressions underscore the intrinsic value that art holds in Indian society, serving as a testament to creativity and artistic expression.
The proposed sculptures being created for Project PARI include wide-ranging ideas such as paying tributes to nature, ideas inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, toys of India, hospitality, ancient knowledge, Kalpataru-the divine tree, etc.
Furthermore, in sync with the proposed 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting, some of the artworks and sculptures draw inspiration from World Heritage Sites such as Bhimbetka and the 7 natural World Heritage Sites in India find a special place in the proposed artworks.

The Art forms showcased:

Traditional art forms as well as sculptures, murals, and installations have been created under this beautification project.
The creative canvas includes but is not limited to artwork inspired by and /or drawn in styles of:
Phad paintings (Rajasthan); Thangka painting (Sikkim/Ladakh); Miniature painting (Himachal Pradesh); Gond art (Madhya Pradesh); Tanjore paintings (Tamil Nadu); Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh); Alpona art (West Bengal); Cheriyal painting (Telangana); Pichhwai Painting (Rajasthan); Lanjia Saura (Odisha); Pattachitra (West Bengal); Bani Thani Painting (Rajasthan); Warli (Maharashtra); Pithora Art (Gujarat); Aipan (Uttarakhand); Kerala Murals (Kerala); Alpana art (Tripura) and more.

About Lalit Kala Akademi (Academy)/National Academy of Art:

It was inaugurated in New Delhi in 1954 by the then Minister for Education, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
The objective was to promote fine arts/visual arts in India. The Akademi also deals with the international arts.
It was registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, in 1957.
It is an autonomous body and is funded by the Union Ministry of Culture.
Functions through General Council, Executive Board, and other Committees, as given in the Akademi’s Constitution.
The Chairman of the Akademi is appointed by the President of India. The term of office for the Chairman is three years, which can be extended.
Main Centre: New Delhi
Regional Centres: Chennai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Shimla, Shillong and Bhubaneswar.
The National Art Award: One of the awards and honours in India and Asia, awarded by Lalit Kala Akademi.

UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register

Context: The inclusion of the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana in UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register marks a significant milestone for India. This recognition celebrates India's profound literary heritage and cultural legacy, underscoring its global importance.

IGNCA secures historic cultural milestone:

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) played a pivotal role in achieving a landmark moment during the 10th meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP).
The meeting of MOWCAP was held in Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), which brought together 38 representatives from member states along with 40 observers and nominees.
IGNCA advocated for three Indian nominations, resulting in their inclusion in ‘UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register’.
This achievement highlights IGNCA's steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting India's rich cultural heritage on the global stage.
Notably, this is IGNCA's inaugural submission to the Regional Register since its establishment in 2008.

The Illustrated Manuscripts of Ramacaritamanasa, commonly known as 'Ramcharitmanas', was created by Goswami Tulsidasa in the 16th century in the Awadhi language. This monumental work is regarded as one of the foremost achievements in Hindu literature, drawing its inspiration from the epic Ramayana authored by the sage Valmiki.

The 15th Century Manuscript of the Panchatantra, authored by Pandit Vishnu Sharma, is a collection of animal fables presented in both poetry and prose. Dating back to at least the 3rd century BCE, this ancient compilation originally written in Sanskrit aims to impart practical life lessons, known as Niti, through the interactions of anthropomorphized animals.

The Sahṛdayaloka-Locana manuscript, an important text in Indian poetics, dates back to the 9th and 10th centuries AD. Authored by Acharya Anandvardhan, it comprises extensive discussions on poetics, dramaturgy, and theatrical insights in Sanskrit literature.

UNESCO's Memory of the World (MOW) Programme:

The Memory of the World (MOW) programme, initiated by UNESCO in 1992, serves as a global strategy to preserve and promote access to rare and endangered documentary heritage.
Its mission, articulated to prevent "collective amnesia," underscores the importance of safeguarding archive holdings and library collections worldwide.
The programme recognizes documentary heritage of international, regional, and national significance, maintaining registers and awarding logos to identified collections.
It advocates for preservation and equitable access, raising awareness among governments, the public, and businesses about the need for conservation and fundraising.
Inscription on the MOW register validates the cultural and historical value of documented heritage, enhancing visibility and accessibility for research, education, entertainment, and long-term preservation efforts.
The Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Committee (MOWCAP), established in 1998, specifically celebrates achievements across 43 countries in genealogy, literature, science, and more.
The MOWCAP Regional Register includes 65 items that reflect the diverse cultural richness and historical significance of the Asia-Pacific region.

Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA):

Established in 1987 under the Ministry of Culture and operates as an autonomous institution dedicated to advancing research, academic activities, and the dissemination of arts.
IGNCA plays a crucial role in supporting Project Mausam, a Ministry of Culture initiative in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
- This project explores cultural routes and maritime landscapes that historically connected regions across the Indian Ocean, linking coastal centres with inland counterparts.

DAY-NRLM’s “SARATHI” app

Context: Recently, the government has launched the ‘SARATHI’ App for Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Antyodaya Yojana- National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

About SARATHI App:

Developed by the Ministry of Rural Development in partnership with The/Nudge Institute.
It can play a multi-faceted role in ensuring timely, effective, and efficient implementation of the Graduation program targeting the most vulnerable.
It will increase the effectiveness of work at multiple levels, reduce cognitive and administrative load, and ensure transparency.
It also mitigates the risk of leakage of consumption and livelihood support being provided to the target households.

About DAY-NRLM:

Launched in 2011
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
Type of scheme: Centrally Sponsored scheme
Aim: Reducing poverty by organizing impoverished rural households into Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Restructured version: Swarna Jayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojna (SGSY)
Key features of the scheme:
- Social mobilisation and promotion and strengthening of self-managed and financially sustainable community institutions of the rural poor women, at least one woman member from each identified rural poor household, is to be brought under the Self Help Group (SHG) network in a time bound manner.
- It addresses financial inclusion from the supply and the demand sides, as the demand side, helps the underprivileged become more financially literate and gives the SHGs and their federations access to catalytic money and In terms of supply, promote the use of financial technologies based on information, communication, and technology (ICT).
- Beneficiaries identified by Participatory Identification of Poor (PIP) method instead of the BPL.
- Community Investment Funds (CIF) and Revolving Funds (RF) as resources in perpetuity to the institutions of the poor.
- Encourages public sector banks to set up Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) in all districts.
Initiative under this scheme:
- Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY): To provide safe, affordable and community monitored rural transport services to connect remote rural villages.
- Mahila Kisan Shashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP): To promote agro-ecological practices that increase women farmers income and reduce their input costs and risks.
- Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP): To support entrepreneurs in rural areas to set up local enterprises.
- Deendayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY): Enhancing the youth's placement-related talents and placing them in economic sectors with comparatively better wages.