Context: Recently, dermatologists from India and 13 other counties objected to the region-specific nomenclature given to a novel species of fungus — Trichophyton (T.) indotineae.
The name of the fungus is prejudicial and ignores the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (WHO). These names often lead to considerable misinformation, stigma, and racial prejudice.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Trichophyton indotineae; How are diseases named?
About Trichophyton indotineae
The fungus was spotted in patients from India and Nepal in 2020. It was considered a new species and named Trichophyton indotineae.
However, the origin of the fungus is not clearly known.
Subsequently, it has been reported from more than 40 countries.
It causes widespread and hard-to-treat skin infections (often appearing as red, itchy, and scaly patches), and is resistant to most anti-fungal medicines (first-line drugs).
How are diseases named?
Assigning names to new diseases and to existing diseases (in rare cases) is the responsibility of the WHO under the International Classification of Diseases.
It is done through a consultative process which includes WHO member states, following the 2015 guidelines by WHO.
Terms that should be avoided in disease names include:
Geographic locations (E.g., Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, Spanish Flu, Rift Valley fever)
Species of animal or food (E.g., Swine flu, bird flu, monkey pox)
Cultural, population, industry or occupational references (E.g., legionnaires)
Terms that incite undue fear (E.g., unknown, fatal, epidemic).
The disease name should consist of generic descriptive terms, based on the symptoms that the disease causes (E.g., respiratory disease, neurologic syndrome, watery diarrhoea).
Context: Police arrested former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte at Manila's international airport following directives from the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding a case of crime against humanity.
Relevance of the topic: Prelims: International Criminal Court; Crimes against Humanity.
Major Highlights:
Dutertefaces a charge of “the crime against humanity of murder” committed during his “war on drugs”.
He ran a brutal anti-drugs drive during his time in office from 2016 to 2022.
Drug suspects were deprived of “due process under the law” and the crackdown allegedly killed around 30,000 people, including children.
The Philippines had quit the ICC in 2019, but the ICC maintains that it had jurisdiction over killings before the country’s pullout from ICC.
International Criminal Court
ICC is an international tribunal to address impunity for the gravest crimes threatening the global community.
It was established under the Rome Statute, a multilateral treaty adopted in 1998. Rome Statute entered into force on 1 July 2002 after ratification by 60 countries.
ICC is an independent international organisation and is not part of the United Nations.
ICC has 18 judges who are elected by the Assembly of State Parties and have non-renewable 9-year terms.
The seat of ICC is in The Hague, Netherlands.
Jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court:
ICC investigates and prosecutes individuals accused of the gravest crimes of international concern, as defined under the Rome Statute:
Genocide
War Crimes
Crimes against Humanity
Crime of Aggression
What are Crimes Against Humanity?
The Rome Statute of the ICC includes the most extensive list of crimes against humanity. These can include:
Murder, extermination, enslavement, deportation or forcible transfer of population, imprisonment, torture, rape, sexual slavery.
Persecution against any identifiable group or collectivity on political, national, ethnic, cultural, religious, gender or other grounds.
Enforced disappearance of persons, apartheid, other inhumane acts involving serious harm to physical or mental health.
Conditions for Exercising Jurisdiction:
The ICC can exercise jurisdiction only under specific conditions:
Territorial or National Jurisdiction:
If the alleged crime occurred on the territory of a State Party.
If the alleged crime was committed by a national of a State Party.
UN Security Council (UNSC) Referral:
The UNSC can refer cases to the ICC, even if the crime occurred in a non-State Party.
Declaration of Acceptance:
A non-State Party can accept the ICC's jurisdiction by making a formal declaration.
Principle of Complementarity:
The ICC operates under the principle of complementarity, i.e., it acts as a court of last resort (seeks to complement, not replace, national courts).
The ICC can intervene only if the national judicial systems are unwilling or unable to investigate or prosecute crimes.
Parties to International Criminal Court:
As of March 2025, ICC has 125 member states.
However, countries such as India, China, USA, Russia etc. have not ratified the Rome Statute and are not members of ICC. Reasons for non-membership include concerns about sovereignty, potential misuse of the court, and conflicts with domestic laws.
Context:Ukraine, involved in a war with Russiafor the past 4 years, has surpassed India to become the world’s largest arms importer as per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report: Key Trends.
About SIPRI
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is an independent international institute dedicated to research on conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament established in 1966.
It publishes reports on global arms transfers, tracking trends in arms imports and exports.
It aims to provide data-driven insights for policy-making in global security and military affairs.
Major Highlights of the SIPRI Report (2025):
Ukraine became the largest importer of major arms in 2020-24, with a nearly 100-fold increase compared to 2015-19, due to the ongoing war with Russia.
India ranked as the second-largest importer of major arms, accounting for 8.3% of global imports. Indian arms imports declined by 9.3% from 2015-19 to 2020-24, primarily due to increasing domestic production.
Russia’s arms exports fell by 64%, reducing its share to 7.8%, making it the third-largest exporter after the US (43%) and France (9.6%).
Four Asian countries—India, Pakistan, Japan, and Australia—ranked among the top 10 importers of arms globally.
The US and French arms exports increased, while Russia, China, and Germany’s exports declined.
China dropped out of the top 10 arms importers for the first time since 1990-94, showcasing its growing domestic industrial base.
India’s position in global Arms Trade:
India was the top destination for arms exports from both Russia and France.
The largest share of Indian arms imports (36%) came from Russia. The share of Russian arms imports in India has declined significantly:
2010-14: 72%
2015-19: 55%
2020-24: 36%
India’s shift in suppliers is evident with increasing arms procurements from France, Israel, and the US.
Major defence deals with France:
36 Rafale jets (delivered)
6 Scorpene-class conventional submarines (P-75; all six submarines launched)
26 Rafale-M jets and 3 submarines (pending finalisation)
India’s Self-Reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in defence:
India’s defence production reached a record ₹1.27 trillion in 2023-24, marking a 17.25% growth—a seven-year high.
Since 2020-21, a large share of the capital acquisition budget has been allocated to domestic procurement.
2025-26 budget: ₹1.115 trillion (75% of total ₹1.49 trillion) earmarked for domestic acquisitions.
Increasing ability to design and produce indigenous weapons reduces reliance on imports.
The SIPRI report points to India reducing dependency on Russian arms, and France gaining prominence as India’s key supplier. Simultaneously, the rise of indigenous defence production in India aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance.
Context: India's rising obesity and diabetes rates have raised concerns about the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in public health.
Relevance of the topic:
Prelims: Government policies and interventions to regulate processed food.
Mains: Health policies and regulatory frameworks; Role of food processing industry in public health.
Major Highlights:
As per the latest edition of theNational Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), 1 in 4 adults in India are either obese or diabetic (NFHS-5). Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contribute significantly to this health crisis.
The 2025 Economic Survey recommends a ‘health tax’ on UPFs, while the Indian Prime Minister has called for tackling obesity. However, weak and industry-friendly food regulations undermine these efforts, allowing misleading advertisements and lack of proper labeling.
Challenges in Regulating Ultra-Processed Foods
1. Ambiguous and Ineffective Laws:
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 lacks clear guidelines on nutritional information disclosure.
FSSAI rules have no definition of High Fat, Sugar, and Salt (HFSS) foods or UPFs.
Multiple laws exist but are not harmonised, leading to weak enforcement.
2. Industry Influence on Policy:
FSSAI’s regulatory framework has been criticised to favour large food corporations over public health. Industry representatives dominate stakeholder meetings, sidelining scientific experts.
FSSAI proposed Indian Nutrition Rating (INR) in 2022, modeled after Australia’s failed ‘health star’ system.
The system allows even unhealthy foods to get misleading star ratings, rather than clear warning labels.
FSSAI ignored its 2021 proposal for a ‘traffic light’ colour-coded warning system due to industry lobbying.
3. Delayed Implementation of Front-of-Pack Labels (FOPL):
Despite recommendations since 2017, India still lacks mandatory warning labels. E.g.,
No mandatory requirement to disclose sugar, salt, or fat content in ads.
Cola drinks and processed foods freely target children and youth, without clear health warnings.
The 2025 Economic Survey calls for urgent reforms, but no clear roadmap exists.
Most countries with effective front-of-pack labels (FOPL) use clear warnings rather than stars.
5. Public Awareness Deficit:
Lack of mass campaigns educating people about the risks of UPFs. Children and youth are the most vulnerable to misleading advertisements.
Government Initiatives
1. National Multisectoral Action Plan (2017) for Prevention and Control of Common Non-Communicable Diseases:
Recommended amendments to laws regulating junk food advertisements. However, there has been limited enforcement in implementing these recommendations.
2. FSSAI’s Initiatives:
FSSAI launched a movement: India@75: Freedom from Trans-fats by 2022 with the aim of eliminating TFA from India.
Eat Right India campaign by FSSAI to protect the health of the people and transform the country's food system. It is based on three key themes- Eat Safe, Eat Healthy, and Eat Sustainable.
FSSAI’s Indian Nutrition Rating (INR) (2022): Introduced a star rating system, but criticised for being industry-friendly.
Mandatory fortification of salt (iodine and iron), edible oil (vitamins A and D), and wheat flour (iron, folic acid, vitamin B12) as per the FSSAI standards. FSSAI has set up the ‘Food Fortification Resource Centre’ as a nodal point to provide required support to stakeholders.
3. Economic Survey 2025 Recommendations:
‘Health tax’ on ultra-processed foods to curb consumption.
Stringent front-of-pack labels replacing misleading star ratings.
Advertising restrictions on HFSS foods targeting children.
Way Forward
Replace Star Ratings with Warning Labels: Adopt ‘high in’ labels based on WHO or NIN guidelines.
Define HFSS and UPFs Clearly: Set scientific thresholds for sugar, salt, and fat content in processed foods.
Strict Advertisement Regulations: Amend existing laws to prohibit misleading ads and mandate nutritional disclosures.
Public Awareness Campaign: Nationwide campaigns in regional languages on the health risks of UPFs.
Health Tax Implementation: Levy higher taxes on HFSS foods and subsidize healthier alternatives
Value Addition:
Quote: "It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver." (Mahatma Gandhi)
Context: Despite having a strong scientific manpower base, robust IT and pharmaceutical sectors, and a thriving start-up ecosystem, India lags in research and development (R&D) investment.
India's Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) is only 0.64% of GDP (FY21), much lower than global leaders like the US, China, Japan, and South Korea. The private sector’s role in R&D is limited, with most funding coming from the government.
Relevance of the topic:
Prelims: Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) – Definition and Trends; Government initiatives for R&D promotion
Mains: Role of government in fostering innovation; Low R&D investment and its impact on industrial growth; Private sector participation in research Global Comparisons: India vs China, US, Japan in R&D.
Challenges in R&D Growth:
India’s Low R&D Spending:
GERD in India: ₹60,196 crore (FY2011) → ₹1,27,381 crore (FY2021).
R&D as percentage of GDP: 0.64% (India) vs 2.1% (China), 3%+ (US, Japan, South Korea).
Developed nations have 70% private-sector contribution, while India relies mostly on government funding.
Sector-wise R&D Expenditure:
Pharmaceuticals (50%): Driven by drug innovation, vaccine research.
IT (15%): Investments in AI, cybersecurity, software advancements.
Transportation (10%): Focus on EVs, autonomous vehicles, infrastructure.
Defence & Chemicals (7-10%): Investment in military technology, chemical innovations.
Biotechnology: Growing R&D in medical research, genetic engineering.
Electronics, Fuels, Telecommunications, Metallurgy: Relatively lower investments, suggesting mature industries or slow adoption of new technologies.
Private Sector’s Limited Role:
Globally, private firms contribute 50-70% of R&D spending, but in India, it is mostly government-driven. Indian firms hesitate to invest in long-term R&D due to uncertain returns. High costs discourage startups and MSMEs from investing in R&D.
Top R&D spenders globally:
US – Google, Amazon lead private R&D (70% contribution).
China – Hybrid model with both state and private sector investments.
Focus on Basic Research Over Applied Research:
Applied research drives commercial innovation and attracts investment. But India’s academic institutions focus moreon theoretical research, leading to fewer linkages between research institutions and industries. This causes limited technology transfer from labs to businesses.
Presently, investments are concentrated in pharmaceuticals and IT, but disruptive technologies like quantum computing, semiconductors, and AI need more funding.
Bureaucratic and Regulatory Barriers: Complex approval processes delay patents and innovation commercialisation. Tax incentives for R&D are not competitive compared to other countries
Government Initiatives for R&D Growth
Increased GERD (2013-14 to 2021-22): The government has doubled R&D spending from ₹60,196 crore to ₹1,27,381 crore. Increased focus on AI, biotechnology, semiconductors and quantum technology sectors.
National Research Foundation (NRF): Aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Supports multidisciplinary research collaborations.
PLI Scheme for Technology Sectors: Encourages R&D in electronics, semiconductors, and renewable energy.
Tax Incentives for R&D Investment: Offers weighted tax deductions for companies investing in research.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Promotes startups, incubators, and innovation hubs in schools & colleges.
India's R&D investment remains low despite its strong IT, pharma, and startup ecosystem. Increasing industry-academia collaboration, private investment, and applied research is essential to strengthen India’s global competitiveness and technological self-reliance.
Context: Government and financial institutions take painstaking efforts to consolidate banknotes, cheques, and passports with a variety of security features to protect them from counterfeiting. Now, scientists from India have developed a Nanoparticle-based Security Ink that can make counterfeiters’ jobs harder.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Nanoparticles-based security ink.
Nanoparticle-based Security Ink
The scientists from Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai have developed a fluorescent security ink using nanoparticles that emit different colours under various light conditions.
Composition of the Security Ink:
Base Material: Sr2BiF7 (Strontium Bismuth Fluoride)
Dopant: Lanthanide ions (Erbium and Ytterbium)
Binding agent: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) ink.
Manufactured using: Co-precipitation method.
Co-precipitation Method: Chemical process where all required metal salts are dissolved in a solvent and then precipitated by adding another agent. The desired precipitate is then separated.
Fluorescence Properties of the Ink:
Under 365 nm Ultraviolet (UV) Light: Emits a blue glow.
Under 395 nm UV Light: Emits a magenta glow.
Under 980 nm Near-Infrared (NIR) Light: Emits an orange-red glow.
Advantage:
The ink can overcome the limitations of current covert tags, which are security features usually visible only under UV light and can be easily duplicated.
This ink fluoresces under both UV and near-Infrared light, making it harder for counterfeiters to replicate.
Nanotechnology involves the manipulation and control of matter at the nanoscale, typically in the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Properties of Nanoparticles:
Size: 1 to 100 nanometers. (1 nm = 10-9 metres)
Unique Properties:
Enhanced interactions with light, leading to unique opto-electric properties. E.g., Quantum dots.
Increased chemical reactivity. E.g., Nanocatalysts.
Different response to magnetic fields (altered Magnetic behaviour).
These properties arise due to high surface area-to-volume ratio, exhibition of quantum effects at nanoscale, and interface interactions.
Advantages of the Developed Ink:
Multi-wavelength Fluorescence: Emits different colors under UV and NIR light.
High Security: Difficult to counterfeit due to multi-spectral response.
Low Cost: Made using readily available materials.
Durability: Stable under varying brightness, temperature, and humidity conditions.
Scalable Production: Simple manufacturing process allowing large-scale production.
Potential Applications:
Enhanced security features for currency notes.
More secure identification documents, like passports and government documents.
In product packaging for protection against counterfeit products.
The current method uses screen printing, unsuitable for currency printing. Researchers are aiming to modify the ink for offset printing to make it suitable for high-security applications.
What is Security Printing?
Definition: Security printing refers to the incorporation of various security features in printed materials to prevent counterfeiting.
Common Uses: Currency notes, cheques, passports, and branded products packaging.
Types of Security Features:
Visible Features: Easily detectable by humans without special tools.
Optically Variable Ink (OVI): Changes colour when viewed from different angles.
Watermarks: Embedded symbols or designs visible when held against light.
Holograms: Three-dimensional images with dynamic visual effects.
Security Threads: Metallic threads embedded in paper.
Raised Textures: Designs with a tangible texture detectable by touch.
Machine-Detectable Features: Require specific devices to verify.
Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID): Chips embedded in passports for verification.
Invisible Barcodes: Can be scanned to authenticate documents.
Digital Watermarks: Embedded digital codes detectable through scanners.
Context: India's escalating demand for electronic devices has led to a significant increase in semiconductor chip imports.
Relevance of the topic:
Prelims: Semicon India Programme; Import trends.
Mains: Challenges of high import Dependence.
Major Highlights:
Data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry shows that in the past 10 years, imports for semiconductor chips such as monolithic integrated circuits (ICs), memories, amplifiers, and other ICs have increased significantly.
In FY24, the total value of Monolithic IC imports was ₹1.05 lakh crore, a 2,000% increase compared to FY16.
In FY24, import of memory chips increased by 4,500% compared to FY16.
Imports of amplifiers, which are utilised in wireless communication and audio equipment, increased by 4,800% in FY24 from FY16.
In the past 10 years, except FY19, China has been the major supplier of semiconductor chips to India, accounting for nearly one third of the import value every year. Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan have also been major suppliers to India.
Challenges associated with High Import Dependence:
India's heavy reliance on semiconductor chip imports presents several challenges that impact its economy, technological advancement, and national security.
Supply Chain vulnerabilities: Dependence on external sources for semiconductors exposes India to global supply-chain disruptions. E.g., the global semiconductor shortage in recent years led to production delays in various industries, including automotive and electronics.
Economic Implications: Importing semiconductors contributes to a significant outflow of foreign exchange, affecting the country's trade balance.
Technological Lag: High import dependence can hinder the development of a domestic semiconductor industry, limiting innovation and technological self-reliance. This reliance may prevent India from keeping pace with global advancements in semiconductor technology.
National Security Concerns: Dependence on foreign-made semiconductors can pose national security risks, as these components are integral to defense and critical infrastructure.
To address these challenges and enhance self-reliance, India is focusing on developing a robust domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.
Government Initiatives in this regard:
As per industry estimates, the size of the Indian semiconductor market was about $38 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $109 Billion by 2030.
1. Manufacturing Facilities:
Five manufacturing facilities are under construction for the manufacturing and assembly of semiconductor chips, backed by the Semicon India Programme. These include- Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test facility in Morigaon (Assam); Dholera (Gujarat) semiconductor fabrication facility (fab) by Tata Electronics in collaboration with the Taiwan-based Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation.
With the new facilities, India will be able to add value in the assembly, testing, and packaging, and fab segments of the global value chain for semiconductors.
India is yet to make major strides in EDA (software used for designing chips), Core IP (patents), wafers (semiconductor materials), fab tools and ATP tools (machinery), and design of chips.
Launched in 2021 with an outlay of ₹76,000 crores for the development of semiconductors and display manufacturing ecosystem in India.
Aim: To provide financial support to companies investing in semiconductors, display manufacturing and design ecosystem.
Implementing Agency: India Semiconductor Mission under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
Following four schemes have been introduced under the programme:
Modified Scheme for setting up of Semiconductor Fabs in India extends fiscal support of 50% of the project cost for setting up of Silicon CMOS based Semiconductor Fabs in India.
Modified Scheme for setting up of Display Fabs in India extends fiscal support of 50% of Project Cost for setting up of Display Fabs in India.
Fiscal support of 50% of the Capital Expenditure for setting up of Compound Semiconductors / Silicon Photonics / Sensors (including MEMS) Fab/ Discrete Semiconductor Fab and Semiconductor Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP)/ OSAT facilities in India.
‘Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme’: Product Design Linked Incentive of up to 50% of the eligible expenditure subject to a ceiling of ₹15 Crore per application.
Context: As per the latest Tiger Census (2022), the Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha does not have a single tiger. The state government of Odisha is keen on resuming its tiger reintroduction programme in STR.
However, this poses a looming threat of relocation for indigenous populations settled in the core, buffer and impact zone of the tiger reserve.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Satkosia Tiger Reserve; Tiger Reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve:
In 2007, the Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipali Sanctuary were combined to form the Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR).
Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary, established in 1976, covers over 795 sq. km spanning four districts of Odisha (Angul, Cuttack, Boudh, and Nayagarh).
Baisipali Sanctuary was notified in the southern part of Nayagarh district in 1981.
STR covers 1,136.70 sq. km with a core zone of 523.61 sq. km.
Key features:
STR has a unique biodiversity, as it is located at the meeting point of two biogeographic regions, the Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats. Covered with marshes and evergreen forests.
It has a 22.5 km long Satkosiagorge created by the Mahanadi river. It is designated a Ramsar site (wetland of international importance). It has over 400 plant species, 183 fish species and more than 200 species of birds.
In 2007, the State government census recorded 12 tigers in STR, but by 2018-19, only one remained. The 2022 census found no tigers in STR.
Efforts to restore Tiger population in STR:
To restore the tiger population, India’s first inter-State tiger relocation programme was launched in 2018.
A male tiger was brought from the Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh and a tigress from the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, MP.
However, the effort of restoration did not succeed.
Challenges:
Prevalence of poaching.
Resistance of villagers against:
Potential rehabilitation (Four villages are located in the forest core, 131 villages in the buffer, and 234 villages in the impact zone of STR).
Deforestation
Threat of man-wildlife conflict.
The tiger reintroduction project must secure consent from locals and public representatives, with voluntary relocation of villages and proper financial compensation as per the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) norms.
Context: India has added the Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh as the country’s 58th Tiger Reserve. It is the ninth tiger reserve in the state after Kanha, Satpura, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Sanjay Dubri, Panna, Veerangana Durgavati and Ratapani.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Madhav Tiger Reserve; Tiger Reserve; key facts about Tiger.
About Madhav Tiger Reserve:
Location: Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh
Key geographical features:
Vegetation: dry deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests and grasslands.
Sakhya Sagar, a man-made reservoir within the park, has been designated as a Ramsar site since 2022.
Key fauna: Tiger, leopard, jackals, nilgai, sambar, wild boar etc.
Historical significance:
Earlier Shivpuri National Park, was renamed Madhav National Park after Madho Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior belonging to the Scindia dynasty of the Marathas.
The dense forests of the National Park were the former hunting grounds of Mughals and Scindia rulers.
The tiger reserve has George Castle inside the reserve, built by Scindias in anticipation of British King George V’s visit in 1911.
What are Tiger Reserves?
Tiger reserves are legally declared protected areas designated to conserve tigers and their habitats.
The tiger reserves were set up as a part of Project Tiger initiated in 1973.
They are administered by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
The tiger reserves are constituted on a core/buffer strategy to promote tiger conservation.
The core areas have the legal status of a National Park or a Sanctuary.
The buffer or peripheral areas are a mix of forest and non-forest land, managed as a multiple use area.
Who notifies Tiger Reserves?
Tiger Reserves are notified by State Governments as per provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 on advice of the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
The following steps are involved in the notification:
The State Government identifies potential areas and submits a proposal to NTCA.
NTCA reviews the proposal. After thorough evaluation, NTCA recommends the proposal.
The State Government notifies the area as a Tiger Reserve.
With the formation of the tiger reserve, NTCA provides funds for the management of Tiger Reserve.
Key Facts about Tiger
Tiger is an umbrella species. Its conservation automatically ensures the conversation of a large number of flora and fauna and entire ecosystems.
India is home to 75% of the global tiger population.
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) conducts a tiger census across India every 4 years.
As per the latest Tiger Census Report (2022), India has 3682 tigers. (2967 in 2018)
Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of tigers (785) in India, followed by Karnataka (563) and Uttarakhand (560).
Context: The Prime Minister of India will embark on a state visit to Mauritius from 11-12 March 2025, and will be the guest of honour in the Mauritius Independence Day celebrations.
Relevance of the Topic: Mains: India-Mauritius bilateral relations and partnership.
Introduction:
India and Mauritius share a long-standing and multifaceted relationship, deeply rooted in history, culture, economic ties, and strategic interests.
The new government in Mauritius is led by Navinchandra Ramgoolam of the Labour Party. The visit of the Indian PM provides an opportunity to reaffirm India’s commitment to the security and prosperity of the island nation.
Importance of Mauritius for India
Importance of India for Mauritius
1. Strategic Location in the Indian Ocean:
- Mauritius' strategic location in the Indian Ocean, makes it a vital partner for India's maritime strategy and Vision SAGAR.
- The island nation plays a crucial role in India's Ocean Diplomacy, enhancing its influence in the Indian Ocean.
2. Cultural and Historical Ties:
- Over 68% of Mauritius' population is of Indian origin fostering strong cultural affinities and historical ties.
- These ties facilitate cooperation in various sectors, including education, culture, and community development projects.
3. Economic Benefits:
- Mauritius is an important trading partner for India.
- Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) enhances trade relations and provides preferential market access for both countries.
4. Security Cooperation:
- Mauritius supports India's stance against terrorism and piracy, contributing to regional security in the Indian Ocean.
- India has historically played a role in Mauritius' security, including military interventions like Operation Lal Dora in 1983.
1. Economic Support and Investment:
- India is one of Mauritius' largest trading partners and a significant source of foreign investment.
- India's development assistance, including funding for community projects, supports Mauritius' infrastructure and social development.
2. Strategic Partnerships:
- India's strategic assistance enhances Mauritius' maritime security, defence capabilities and reinforces its sovereignty claims.
- India supports Mauritius' claims over the Chagos Archipelago, aligning with its stance on decolonisation and regional stability.
Historical and Cultural Ties
Mauritius has a significant Indian-origin population, with nearly 70% tracing their ancestry to India, particularly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. These historical ties date back to the colonial period when Indian indentured labourers were brought to work on sugar plantations.
Sir Seewosagur Ramgoolam, the father of the current Prime Minister, played a pivotal role in the country’s independence movement and shared a historical connection with India. He worked closely with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in Britain (1919-21) and assisted in the publication of Bose’s book, The Indian Struggle.
India has played a significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural and linguistic heritage of the Indian-origin population in Mauritius.
Institutions like the Mahatma Gandhi Institute and the Indian Cultural Centre have been instrumental in promoting Indian languages and traditions.
Additionally, Mauritius is home to the World Hindi Secretariat, supported by India.
Economic and Trade Relations:
Bilateral trade between India and Mauritius has seen steady growth, reaching $554 million in 2022-23.
Mauritius serves as a crucial gateway for India’s economic engagement with Africa due to its membership in the African Union and preferential trade agreements with African nations.
Mauritius is also an important financial partner for India, largely due to the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).
The DTAA has made Mauritius a major channel for foreign investments into India, positioning it as a successful international financial centre.
This financial partnership has been mutually beneficial, fostering investment and economic collaboration.
Strategic and Maritime Security Cooperation:
Mauritius plays a pivotal role in India’s maritime security strategy, particularly in the western Indian Ocean.
As a key member of the Colombo Security Conclave, alongside India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Bangladesh, Mauritius contributes to regional maritime security.
India has significantly strengthened Mauritius’ maritime capabilities by:
Establishing a chain of coastal radar stations.
Redeveloping the Mauritian island of Agaléga as a joint surveillance facility.
Granting Mauritius access to India’s Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram.
Conducting oceanographic surveys through Indian naval assets such as INS Sarvekshak.
With China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean, India’s strategic partnership with Mauritius has assumed even greater importance.
Both China and India are competing for influence in Mauritius. While India provides security support, China offers economic and investment opportunities.
Regardless of the political leadership in either country, India-Mauritius relations have remained stable and positive. With the recent election of Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, India has an opportunity to reinforce its strategic and diplomatic ties. As India seeks to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean and Africa, Mauritius remains a key ally.
Context: With India continuing to push the boundaries of scientific and technological advancement, it must ensure the full inclusion of women in this journey.
Relevance of the Topic: Mains: Essay: Women in Science- Opportunities, Challenges
Challenges faced by Women in Science
Limited access to quality education: In many regions, girls have limited access to quality education, especially in rural and marginalised areas.
Gendered societal norms: Social expectations often discourage girls from pursuing STEM education, reinforcing stereotypes about science being a male-dominated field.
Hiring and promotion bias: Women often face biased hiring practices. Access to high-impact research and leadership roles are often restricted, limiting career progression.
Matilda Effect: This concept highlights the tendency to downplay or overshadow women's scientific contributions in favour of their malecolleagues.
Lack of role models: The absence of successful women in senior leadership roles further discourages younger women from pursuing STEM careers.
Harassment and discrimination: Academic and professional environments are often hostile, pushing women out of STEM fields.
High attrition rates: Studies show that women have higher dropout rates in STEM fields due to work-life balance issues, non-inclusive workplaces and limited institutional support.
Scenario of Indian Women in Science
A survey conducted across 98 institutions in India (2020-21) showed that women faculty memberscomprised only 17% of the total, with:
23% in Biology
8% in Engineering
Women’s representation in higher-ranked institutions and senior faculty positions is alarmingly low.
Women are often excluded from career-enhancing opportunities like conferences, funding, and leadership roles.
Significance of retaining Women in Science:
Driving innovation: Diverse teams bring multiple perspectives, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and solutions.
Promoting role models: Women in leadership roles can inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM. Visible role models can help break gender stereotypes and reduce dropout rates.
Increase Female Labour force Participation Rate (FLFPR) and contribute in achieving the ambitious target of 70% women in economic activities by 2047.
Government Initiatives to promote Women in Science:
Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI):
Launched in 2020 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to promote gender inclusivity in STEM fields.
Focuses on creating an equitable academic and professional environment for women.
Women in Science and Engineering - Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing (WISE-KIRAN):
Provides funding, mentorship, and career support to women scientists.
Aims to increase women’s participation in STEM through research advancement.
Women Scientists Scheme (WOS):
Offers financial support and research opportunities for women re-entering the workforce after career breaks.
Encourages women’s participation in academic research.
Biotechnology Career Advancement and Re-orientation (BioCARe):
Launched by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to support women scientists returning to research after career breaks.
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Initiatives:
Promotes women’s health research and training opportunities for women scientists.
Ensures gender-sensitive approaches in scientific research and health-related studies.
Policy Recommendations for retaining Women in Science:
Institutional changes:
Introduce flexible work hours, remote working, and part-time employment options for women.
Provide affordable daycare facilities within institutions to support working mothers.
Formulate policies that help women balance work and family responsibilities.
Increasing visibility and representation:
Promote the achievements of women scientists through awards, public platforms, and media.
Monitor gender discrimination in hiring, funding, and promotions, ensuring equal opportunities.
Create pathways for women to occupy leadership and decision-making roles.
Supporting career re-entry:
Eliminate age-restrictions on research grants to accommodate women who have taken career breaks.
Offer fellowship programs for women returning to research after family or personal breaks.
Establish strong mentorship networks for women at all career stages.
Ensuring the retention of women in science will not only shape a more inclusive future but also inspire the next generation of women scientists, ultimately propelling India's scientific growth on a global scale.
Context: The World Spice Organisation (WSO) reported that despite being the largest producer and exporter of diverse varieties of spices in the world, India’s share in the global seasoning market is only 0.7%.
Relevance of the topic:
Prelims:Spices Industry in India- types, trends, growing areas.
Mains: Spice exports- Trends, issues, initiatives, way forward.
Spices in India
Primary spice-growing regions includeKerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat. However, new regions like theNorth-East, Odisha, and Jharkhand are emerging as significant spice producers.
Some of the most widely grown and exported spices in India include:
Black Pepper: "The King of Spices," mainly grown in Kerala and Karnataka.
Cardamom: Highly valued in global markets, produced in South India.
Turmeric: Used in culinary, medicinal, and nutraceutical applications.
Cumin & Coriander: Essential for Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Chilies: India is the largest producer of red chilies, widely grown in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Current Status of India's Spice Exports
Largest producer and exporter: India is the largest producer and exporter of diverse varieties of spices globally.
Total spice export: India exports 1.5 million tonnes of spices worth $4.5 billion, commanding about 25% of the $20 billion global spice market.
Low market share: India's share in the global seasoning market (valued at $14 billion in 2024) is only 0.7%, compared to:
The remaining 52% are exported as raw, whole spices with limited processing.
Challenges in Indian Spice Industry
High cost of production: Farmers struggle with rising costs due to inefficient agricultural practices, pesticide overuse, and outdated processing methods.
Low value addition: India primarily exports whole spices rather than processed spice products like seasonings, extracts, and nutraceuticals. To meet the $10 billion export target by 2030, the share of value-added spices should increase from 48% to 70%.
Limited global market penetration: While India dominates spice production, countries likeVietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, and China have expanded their presence in international spice markets. Additionally, African nationshave recently entered spice cultivation, posing new competition.
Quality & Safety Concerns: Stringent global regulations on pesticide residues and contamination require strict quality control measures. Many Indian spice farmers need training in integrated pest management, hygiene to meet international standards.
Climate change impact: Spice cultivation is highly sensitive to climate conditions. Unpredictable monsoons and rising temperatures threaten yields and quality. Developing high-yielding and climate-resistant varieties is essential to maintaining production levels.
Government & Industry Efforts for Improvement
Spices Board of India: Promotes research, processing, and export growth in the sector.
World Spice Organisation (WSO): Works with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to improve spice farming techniques.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): Developing high-yield and climate-resistant spice varieties.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Programs: Educates farmers on sustainable cultivation practices.
To achieve the $10 billion spice export target by 2030, India must boost production efficiency, increase value-addition, expand global market presence, enhance pesticide control and meet international standards.
