Daily Current Affairs for UPSC 18th

Index
S.No	Topic	Page No
Daily Hindu Analysis (YouTube)
1.	Overseas Bill betrays migrant workers
2.	How is the Aravalli range to be protected?
3.	Indian Army leaves for Desert Cyclone-II military exercise
4.	India, Oman to sign free trade pact today: Goyal
5.	ICG Ship Sarthak makes first port call at Iran’s Chabahar
6.	Navy commissions second MH-60R copter squadron, the ‘Ospreys’, at INS Hansa
7.	Project Mausam
8.	Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan
9.	United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
10.	National Digital Livestock Mission
11.	Ekam AI and SAMBHAV

Overseas Bill betrays migrant workers

Context

The author critically examines the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025, arguing that instead of protecting India’s migrant workers, the Bill weakens safeguards and accelerates their vulnerability to exploitation in overseas labour markets.

Detailed Analysis

India’s Migrant Workers and Their Economic Role

• India’s overseas labour migrants, largely from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Kerala, work in construction, domestic work and manufacturing abroad.
  
  
• Their remittances sustain families and contribute significantly to India’s GDP, yet their journeys are marked by high risks and exploitation.
  
  
  

From Protection to Deregulation

• The Bill is projected as a modern replacement for the Emigration Act, 1983, but the author calls it a Trojan horse of deregulation.
  
  
• It prioritises administrative “facilitation” and bureaucratic efficiency over enforceable rights and worker protection.
  
  
  

Dilution of Legal Safeguards

• The 2021 draft recognised migrants as agents of their own fate, enabling legal action against exploitative recruiters.
  
  
• The 2025 Bill removes this rights-based framework, leaving workers dependent on state machinery with limited accountability.
  
  
  

Gendered and Social Vulnerabilities

• Labour migration is deeply gendered, with women facing higher risks of trafficking and sexual violence.
  
  
• While the 2021 draft imposed stricter penalties for crimes against women and children, the new Bill dilutes this by using vague terms like “vulnerable classes”, weakening enforcement.
  
  
  

Recruitment Exploitation and Debt Bondage

• The Bill dismantles anti-predatory checks on recruitment agencies.
  
  
• Removal of mandatory fee disclosure (2021 provision) enables debt bondage, where workers borrow heavily before migration and remain trapped even before departure.
  
  
  

Weakening of Overseas Protection Mechanisms

• Earlier provisions mandated Indian missions to handle reception, dispute resolution and document renewals.
  
  
• The new Bill converts these into optional “functions”, overburdening government bodies and eroding accountability.
  
  
  

Digitalisation Without Safeguards

• Emigration Check Posts are replaced by digital systems, convenient for administrators but risky for workers.
  
  
• The Integrated Information System risks becoming a surveillance mechanism, collecting migrant data without adequate consent or protection.
  
  
  

Federal and Institutional Exclusion

• The Bill centralises governance, marginalising States and trade unions despite their frontline role in migration management.
  
  
• Migrant-sending States like Kerala and Uttar Pradesh lose representation, weakening cooperative federalism.
  
  
  

Reintegration and Return Migration Failures

• Reintegration provisions are symbolic, with inadequate funding for skill training, counselling and rehabilitation.
  
  
• Deportees returning within 182 days are excluded from support, deepening precarity.
  
  
  

Enforcement Gaps and Impunity

• Penalties remain weak: recruitment rackets face fines, but overseas employers and traffickers remain largely untouched.
  
  
• Fake job scams via digital platforms continue unchecked, creating a regulatory vacuum.
  
  
  

Suggestions Highlighted by the Author

• Restore a rights-based framework enabling migrants to seek legal redress.
  
  
• Reinstate transparent recruitment fee disclosure and anti-debt bondage safeguards.
  
  
• Federalise migration governance with strong State and civil society participation.
  
  
• Strengthen penalties with compensation clauses for victims.
  
  
• Expand the definition of work to cover emerging sectors and informal labour.
  
  
• Invest meaningfully in reintegration, skilling and trauma counselling for returnees.
  
  
  

Conclusion

The author concludes that India’s migrant workers are not expendable exports but central to the nation’s economic and social fabric. The Overseas Mobility Bill, 2025, in its current form, replaces protection with procedural convenience, risking deeper exploitation. What is needed is not facilitation alone, but fortification of rights, accountability and dignity for those whose labour sustains India’s global presence.

UPSC Mains Question

Critically examine the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025 in the context of India’s obligations towards protecting migrant workers’ rights and welfare.

How is the Aravalli range to be protected?

Context

The Supreme Court has recently settled a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges and paused fresh mining leases, addressing long-standing concerns over ecological degradation and desertification risks in north-west India.

Detailed Analysis

Ecological Significance of the Aravalli Range

• One of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, nearly two billion years old.
  
  
• Acts as a natural barrier against the eastward spread of the Thar Desert into the Indo-Gangetic plains.
  
  
• Plays a critical role in climate stability, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity conservation.
  
  
• Source region for rivers such as the Chambal, Sabarmati and Luni.
  
  
• Supports sandstone, limestone, marble and mineral reserves, making it vulnerable to over-extraction.
  
  
  

Impact of Mining and Degradation

• Decades of excessive stone and sand mining led to forest loss, groundwater depletion and air pollution.
  
  
• A significant portion of mining was found to be illegal and unregulated.
  
  
• Degradation threatened India’s commitments under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
  
  
  

Supreme Court’s Intervention

• Imposed a pause on fresh mining leases across Aravalli areas spanning Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat.
  
  
• Earlier bans in districts like Faridabad, Gurugram and Mewat highlighted the judicial role in environmental oversight.
  
  
• Recognised that total blanket bans can encourage illegal mining syndicates, necessitating a calibrated approach.
  
  
  

Role of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC)

• Directed by the Court to conduct a scientific examination of the Aravalli range.
  
  
• Recommended comprehensive scientific mapping, macro-level environmental impact assessments and regulation of stone-crushing units.
  
  
• Proposed restrictions on mining in ecologically sensitive zones, wildlife corridors, water bodies and recharge areas.
  
  
  

Uniform Definition of the Aravallis

• States earlier followed inconsistent criteria, enabling regulatory loopholes.
  
  
• A multi-agency committee involving the Environment Ministry, Forest Survey of India, Geological Survey of India and State Forest Departments was constituted.
  
  
• The committee submitted findings in October 2025, aiming at a scientifically grounded nationwide definition.
  
  
• The Court clarified that narrow definitions based only on elevation could undermine ecological integrity.
  
  
  

Aravalli ‘Green Wall’ Initiative

• Launched by the Centre in June 2025.
  
  
• Aims to expand green cover in a five-km buffer zone across 29 districts of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi.
  
  
• Target: restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
  
  
• Intended to strengthen carbon sinks, biodiversity and desertification control.
  
  
  

Managed Plan for Sustainable Mining

• The Court directed preparation of a Managed Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) for the entire Aravalli range.
  
  
• The plan will:
• Identify no-mining zones and limited, highly regulated mining zones.
  
  
• Map sensitive habitats and wildlife corridors.
  
  
• Assess cumulative ecological impacts and determine carrying capacity.
  
  
• Lay down restoration and rehabilitation measures.
  
  
  

Suggestions Highlighted

• Adopt science-based zoning instead of absolute bans.
  
  
• Strengthen inter-State coordination for uniform enforcement.
  
  
• Integrate ecological restoration with livelihood alternatives for local communities.
  
  
• Use satellite monitoring and impact assessments to curb illegal mining.
  
  
  

Conclusion

The protection of the Aravalli range reflects a shift from fragmented regulation to integrated environmental governance. By combining judicial oversight, scientific mapping and restoration initiatives like the Green Wall, India aims to balance ecological security with developmental needs, ensuring the long-term resilience of a critical natural barrier against desertification.

UPSC Mains Question

Discuss the ecological significance of the Aravalli range and evaluate the role of judicial interventions and scientific governance in ensuring its sustainable protection.

Indian Army leaves for Desert Cyclone-II military exercise

Context

An Indian Army contingent has departed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to participate in the second edition of the India–UAE Joint Military Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II, scheduled from December 18 to 30 in Abu Dhabi.

Key Points

About the Exercise

• DESERT CYCLONE-II is a bilateral military exercise between India and the UAE.
  
  
• It is the second edition, aimed at deepening defence ties.
  
  
  

Indian Army Contingent

• Strength: 45 personnel.
  
  
• Composition: Primarily from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
  
  
  

UAE Representation

• UAE Land Forces represented by a contingent of similar strength.
  
  
• Unit involved: 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.
  
  
  

Objectives of the Exercise

• Enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces.
  
  
• Strengthen defence cooperation and mutual understanding.
  
  
• Improve coordination in mechanised warfare and joint operations.
  
  
  

Strategic Significance

• Reinforces India’s growing defence engagement in West Asia.
  
  
• Complements broader India–UAE strategic partnership, including security and defence collaboration.
  
  
  

Additional Information

India–UAE Defence Cooperation

• Regular joint exercises across Army, Navy and Air Force domains.
• Focus on interoperability, training, and strategic trust-building.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II:

1. It is a joint military exercise conducted between India and the United Arab Emirates.

2. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c) Both 1 and 2

India, Oman to sign free trade pact today: Goyal

Context

India and Oman are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)/Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aimed at expanding trade, investment, and strategic economic cooperation between the two countries.

Key Points

Nature of the Agreement

• India and Oman began CEPA negotiations in 2023.
  
  
• The agreement is being signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
  
  
  

Sectors Benefiting from the FTA

• Textiles and footwear
• Automobiles and auto components
• Gems and jewellery
• Renewable energy
• Battery storage and green hydrogen
  
  
  

Market Access and Strategic Reach

• Oman offers India gateway access to:
• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region
• Eastern Europe
• Central Asia
• Africa
  
  
• Enhances India’s trade diversification amid global uncertainties.
  
  
  

Energy Transition Cooperation

• Both countries committed to energy transition.
  
  
• Focus areas include:
• Renewable energy
• Green hydrogen
• Energy storage systems
  
  
• Aligns with India’s clean energy and net-zero goals.
  
  
  

Infrastructure and Logistics Collaboration

• Cooperation in:
• Multimodal infrastructure
• Logistics and export warehouses
  
  
• Strengthens supply chains and trade facilitation.
  
  
  

Food Security and Agriculture

• India can assist Oman in ensuring food security.
  
  
• Potential collaboration in agri-supply chains and logistics.
  
  
  

Startup and Technology Ecosystem

• Joint development of startup ecosystems.
  
  
• Focus on:
• Deep tech
• Artificial intelligence
• Logistics software services
  
  
• Positions India as a technology and innovation hub.
  
  
  

Additional Information

India–Oman Relations

• Oman is a key partner in India’s West Asia policy.
  
  
• Economic engagement complements cooperation in defence, maritime security, and connectivity.

UPSC Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding the India–Oman Free Trade Agreement:

1. The agreement aims to provide India enhanced access to GCC and African markets through Oman.

2. Energy transition, including green hydrogen and renewable energy, is a key area of cooperation under the agreement.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c) Both 1 and 2

ICG Ship Sarthak makes first port call at Iran’s Chabahar

Context

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ship Sarthak made its first-ever port call at Chabahar, Iran, marking a significant step in India’s expanding maritime engagement in the region.

Key Points

About the Port Call

• ICG Ship Sarthak, an offshore patrol vessel, entered Chabahar port on December 16.
  
  
• The visit is scheduled for four days (December 16–19).
  
  
• This is the first visit by an Indian Coast Guard ship to Chabahar.
  
  
  

Strategic Significance of Chabahar

• Chabahar provides India direct maritime access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.
  
  
• It strengthens India’s role in regional trade, connectivity and logistics security.
  
  
• The port is critical for secure supply lines in the extended neighbourhood.
  
  
  

Maritime Security and Diplomacy

• The visit underscores India’s growing maritime engagement in the western Indian Ocean region.
  
  
• It enhances maritime cooperation and confidence-building with Iran.
  
  
• Reflects India’s ability to operate and engage in strategically sensitive regions.
  
  
  

Alignment with India’s Maritime Vision

• The port call aligns with SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
  
  
• It also supports the MAHASAGAR vision of inclusive and cooperative maritime engagement.
  
  
• Reinforces India’s role as a net security provider in the region.
  
  
  

Activities During the Visit

• ICG Ship Sarthak will undertake professional interactions with Iranian counterparts.
  
  
• The visit includes community-oriented engagements, strengthening people-to-people ties.
  
  
  

Indian Coast Guard

• The Indian Coast Guard is responsible for maritime law enforcement, coastal security, search and rescue, and protection of India’s maritime interests.
  
  
• It plays a key role in maritime diplomacy through port visits and joint engagements.
  
  

UPSC Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Chabahar Port:

1. Chabahar Port provides India with direct maritime access to Afghanistan and Central Asia bypassing Pakistan.

2. ICG Ship Sarthak’s visit marks the first-ever visit of any Indian naval asset to Chabahar port.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a)

Navy commissions second MH-60R copter squadron, the ‘Ospreys’, at INS Hansa

Context

The Indian Navy has commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter squadron (INAS 335 – ‘Ospreys’) at INS Hansa, Goa, strengthening naval aviation and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Key Points

Commissioning Details

• INAS 335 (Ospreys) is the second Indian Naval Air Squadron to operate MH-60R helicopters.
  
  
• Commissioned at INS Hansa, Goa, in the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi.
  
  
  

Significance of MH-60R Helicopters

• MH-60R is a multi-role, all-weather naval helicopter.
  
  
• Enhances rotary-wing combat, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and maritime surveillance capabilities.
  
  
  

Boost to Naval Aviation

• The first MH-60R squadron was commissioned at Kochi in March 2024.
  
  
• The induction marks a major step in the modernisation of Indian naval aviation.
  
  
  

Operational and Strategic Importance

• MH-60R helicopters operate from warships and coastal bases, improving fleet-level situational awareness.
  
  
• Strengthens India’s ability to monitor and respond to threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
  
  
  

Complementing Existing Assets

• INS Hansa already hosts the second P-8I maritime patrol aircraft squadron, commissioned in 2022.
  
  
• MH-60R helicopters complement P-8I aircraft in anti-submarine and maritime domain awareness roles.
  
  
  

Future Capability Expansion

• The Navy is progressing with the acquisition of MQ-9B Sea Guardian remotely piloted aircraft, further enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance.
  
  
  

Additional Information

Indian Navy – Fleet Air Arm

• 2025 marks 75 years since the Government of India approved the formation of the Fleet Air Arm, a milestone in naval aviation history.

Project Mausam

Syllabus: GS-I — Indian Culture; GS-II — International Relations; Cultural Diplomacy

Context

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recently organised a National Workshop on Project Mausam titled “Islands at the Crossroads of Maritime Networks within the Indian Ocean Region”, highlighting India’s maritime cultural heritage and historical linkages across the Indian Ocean.

Key Points

What is Project Mausam:
An Indian government–led cultural diplomacy and maritime heritage initiative launched in 2014.

Nodal ministry:
Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Implementing agency:
Implemented by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as the nodal body.

Core objective:
To study and document the Indian Ocean world, focusing on cultural, commercial and religious exchanges across centuries.

Geographical scope:
Covers 39 Indian Ocean littoral countries, reflecting transnational maritime interactions.

UNESCO linkage:
Aims to nominate identified sites as trans-national inscriptions on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Research focus:
Promotes archaeological and historical research on ancient maritime routes through a multidisciplinary approach.

Academic engagement:
Encourages international seminars, scientific meetings and publications for both scholars and the general public.

Conceptual aim:
Promotes the idea of shared heritage and multiple identities shaped by oceanic connectivity.

Project structure:
Operates through two major units —
• Project Research Unit
• World Heritage Nomination Unit

Supporting institutions:
Research support provided by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and the National Museum.

Mission Mausam (Not to be Confused with Project Mausam)

Mission Mausam:
A separate initiative launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Implementing agencies:
India Meteorological Department (IMD),
National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF),
Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

Objective:
To strengthen weather and climate services through improved observation, modelling and forecasting for sectors like agriculture and disaster management.

Source: PIB

UPSC Prelims MCQ

Q1.Consider the following statements about Project Mausam:

1. Project Mausam is a cultural diplomacy initiative led by the Ministry of Culture to document India’s maritime heritage across the Indian Ocean region.

2. The project aims to nominate identified maritime sites as trans-national inscriptions on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

Explanation:
Project Mausam was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Culture as a maritime heritage and cultural diplomacy initiative. A key objective of the project is to identify sites across 39 Indian Ocean countries and pursue their trans-national nomination to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Q2.Consider the following statements about Mission Mausam:

1. Mission Mausam was launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to strengthen weather and climate forecasting services in India.

2. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the nodal agency for implementing Mission Mausam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
Mission Mausam was launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to improve weather and climate services. It is implemented by IMD, NCMRWF, and IITM, not by the ASI (which is the nodal agency for Project Mausam, not Mission Mausam).

Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan

Syllabus: GS III — Defence and Security; Tourism; Border Area Development

Context

The Chief Minister of Sikkim recently announced the opening of Cho La and Dok La for tourists under the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative, aimed at promoting border tourism and regional development.

Key Points

What is Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan?

• A flagship initiative of the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Tourism.
  
  
• Focuses on opening strategically and historically significant border areas to tourists.
  
  
  

Aim of the Initiative

• Promote border tourism while strengthening infrastructure.
  
  
• Improve livelihoods in remote border villages through tourism-led growth.
  
  
  

Strategic and Developmental Significance

• Enhances connectivity, socio-economic development and national integration in border regions.
  
  
• Implemented with active Army–civil administration coordination while ensuring operational readiness.
  
  
  

Key Features

• Virtual tours of battlefields and border areas with interactive and historical content.
  
  
• Historical narratives curated by the Indian Army and Ministry of Tourism.
  
  
  

Identified Locations

• Sites like Galwan Valley (Ladakh) and Doklam (India–Bhutan–China tri-junction).
  
  
• 77 forward locations identified along the LAC and LoC, linked to post-Independence wars and clashes.
  
  
  

Tourism and Awareness

• Opens sites associated with the valour and sacrifices of Indian Armed Forces.
  
  
• Aims to raise national awareness and responsible tourism in sensitive border zones.
  
  

Source: News On Air

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative:

1. It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism to promote border tourism.

2. The initiative focuses exclusively on virtual tours and does not allow physical tourist access to border areas.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct as Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism to promote border tourism and development.
Statement 2 is incorrect because the initiative allows both physical access to selected border sites and virtual tours, not virtual-only engagement.

United Nations Alliance of Civilizations

Syllabus: GS II — International Relations; Global Institutions; Soft Power Diplomacy

Context
India reaffirmed its commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and religious harmony at the 11th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) Forum held in Riyadh, highlighting India’s support for intercultural dialogue at the global level.

Key Points

Establishment and Origin

• Established in 2005 as a political initiative of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
  
  
• Co-sponsored by Spain and Türkiye.
  
  
  

Nature and Purpose

• Functions as a soft-power political tool of the UN Secretary-General.
  
  
• Focuses on conflict prevention and conflict resolution through dialogue.
  
  
  

Core Functions

• Maintains a global network of partners including states, international organisations, civil society, foundations and the private sector.
  
  
• Works to improve cross-cultural and interreligious relations among diverse societies.
  
  
  

Global Forum

• The Global Forum is the highest-profile event of UNAOC.
  
  
• Brings together political leaders, policymakers, civil society and other stakeholders.
  
  
  

Funding Mechanism

• Supported by a voluntary Trust Fund established by the UN Secretary-General.
  
  
• Funds UNAOC projects, outreach activities and operational requirements.
  
  
  

Administration of Trust Fund

• The Trust Fund is administered by the UN Secretariat as per UN Financial Regulations.
  
  
• Receives voluntary contributions from member states, organisations, private sector and foundations.
  
  
  

Secretariat

• The UNAOC Secretariat is based in New York, USA.
  
  
  

Source: News on Air

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC):

1. It was established in 2005 as a political initiative of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and was co-sponsored by Spain and Türkiye.

2. The highest decision-making body of UNAOC is the UN General Assembly, which administers its Trust Fund and Secretariat.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct. UNAOC was established in 2005 as an initiative of Kofi Annan and co-sponsored by Spain and Türkiye to promote intercultural and interreligious dialogue.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The Global Forum is the highest-profile event of UNAOC, while its Trust Fund is administered by the UN Secretariat, and the Secretariat of UNAOC is based in New York, not under direct administration of the UN General Assembly.

National Digital Livestock Mission

Syllabus: GS-II — Governance; E-Governance; Agriculture and Allied Sectors (Animal Husbandry)

Context

The Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying informed the Lok Sabha about the progress and implementation of the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM), which aims to digitally transform livestock management and service delivery across India.

Key Points

What it is:
A national initiative launched to create a comprehensive digital database of livestock and related services in the country.

Implementing authority:
Launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India.

Coverage:
Implemented across all States in India, ensuring nationwide livestock data integration.

Digital backbone:
The mission is anchored on the Bharat Pashudhan platform, which supports mobile and web-based applications.

Animal identification:
Each animal is assigned a unique 12-digit bar-coded ear tag, serving as its permanent digital identity.

Data captured:
Includes animal registration, breeding and artificial insemination, vaccinations, disease reporting, milk recording, ration balancing, ownership changes and e-prescriptions.

Core objectives:
Enhancing livestock productivity, improving breed quality, enabling real-time disease surveillance and establishing traceability of livestock products.

Farmer-centric approach:
Facilitates easy access to livestock services, information on government schemes and efficient delivery of veterinary support.

Strategic significance:
Strengthens disease control, improves food safety, boosts farmers’ income and modernises India’s livestock sector through digital governance.

Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying:
The nodal department responsible for livestock development, dairy sector growth and implementation of digital initiatives like NDLM.

Source: PIB

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM):

1. The mission aims to enable real-time disease surveillance and traceability of livestock products across India.

2. The National Digital Livestock Mission is implemented only in selected pilot States due to regional diversity.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a) 1 only

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct as NDLM focuses on real-time disease monitoring and traceability mechanisms.

Statement 2 is incorrect because the mission has been implemented across all States in India, not limited to pilot States.

Ekam AI and SAMBHAV

Syllabus: GS Paper III – Security
Topic: Defence technology, indigenisation, internal security

Context

During the Vijay Diwas celebrations, the Indian Army showcased indigenous defence technologies, highlighting India’s push towards self-reliance in secure digital and communication systems.

Key Points

Ekam AI

• Ekam AI is a fully indigenous and secure artificial intelligence platform developed for sensitive defence environments.
  
  
• It is designed to operate without foreign software or external cloud dependence.
  
  
  

Features of Ekam AI

• Enables data analysis, document management and decision support in secure settings.
  
  
• Can be used by personnel at different levels without specialised technical expertise.
  
  
  

Significance of Ekam AI

• Ensures complete data security and data sovereignty.
  
  
• Strengthens India’s effort to build trusted national digital systems in defence.
  
  
  

SAMBHAV Project

• SAMBHAV is a portable satellite-based communication system.
  
  
• It provides mobile connectivity in difficult terrain and emergencies.
  
  
  

Features of SAMBHAV

• Can be rapidly deployed in remote or disaster-affected areas.
  
  
• Supports communication needs of both soldiers and civilians.
  
  
  

Significance of SAMBHAV

• Enhances operational communication capabilities of the armed forces.
  
  
• Demonstrates how defence innovation strengthens national communication infrastructure.
  
  
  

Vijay Diwas

• Vijay Diwas is observed on December 16 every year.
  
  
• It commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 war, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.
  
  
  

Source: PIB

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Ekam AI is a fully indigenous artificial intelligence platform designed to operate in sensitive environments without reliance on foreign software or external cloud systems.

2. SAMBHAV is a portable satellite-based communication system that can be rapidly deployed in remote and disaster-affected areas.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c) Both 1 and 2

Explanation:
Ekam AI is an indigenous, secure AI platform ensuring data sovereignty, while SAMBHAV provides satellite-supported mobile connectivity for quick deployment in remote and emergency situations.