Daily Current Affairs for UPSC 6th Oct 2025 | Daily CA

  Syllabus Mapping: GS Paper 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Economy - Mobilization of resources 

  Context

• India’s clean energy transition has gained significant momentum, adding 24.5 GW of solar capacity in 2024, making it the third-largest contributor globally after China and the U.S.
• However, despite this success, India faces a critical financial gap in achieving its climate goals.
• The article highlights the need for expanded and diversified climate finance, including private sector participation, green bonds, and institutional investments, to sustain and scale this transition.

What is it all about?

• India’s renewable energy expansion—particularly in solar and wind power—has positioned it as a global leader in clean energy.
• The UN Secretary-General’s Climate Report (2025) acknowledges India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and its role in scaling renewable technologies.
• Yet, this growth trajectory is at risk without adequate and sustained climate finance, which forms the economic backbone of energy transition.

Detailed Analysis 

  1. The Critical Gap

• India’s clean energy success hides a financial gap essential for long-term sustainability.
• According to IRENA, to stay within the 1.5°C global warming limit, India needs around $1.5 trillion by 2030.
• However, the Ministry of Finance estimates the requirement to be $2.5 trillion to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
• This includes financing for:
• Battery storage systems
• Green hydrogen
• Decentralised energy grids
• Sustainable transport and agriculture

2. Current Climate Finance Landscape

• By December 2024, India’s cumulative issuance of green, social, sustainability, and sustainability-linked (GSS+) bonds reached $55.9 billion, marking a 186% increase since 2021.
• Green bonds now account for 83% of all sustainable finance issuance in India.
• Forecasts:
• Green bond investment expected to cross $45 billion by 2025.
• Sustainable finance projected to reach $100 billion by 2030.
• However, private sector participation remains concentrated among large corporations, leaving MSMEs, agri-tech, and local infrastructure developers underfunded.

3. Structural Challenges

• Limited access to concessional finance for small-scale developers.
• High perceived risk in green investments deters private capital.
• Regulatory and governance bottlenecks delay fund disbursement.
• Need for diversification beyond green bonds to include:
• Loan guarantees
• Blended finance mechanisms
• Credit enhancement instruments

4. Expanding Climate Finance – Strategic Shifts Needed a) Blended Finance & Risk Mitigation

• Combining public budget allocations with private capital to de-risk green investments.
• National and State governments can use fiscal tools to attract capital for renewable projects.

b) Institutional Capital Mobilisation

• Tapping domestic institutional investors such as:
• Pension funds,
• Insurance companies,
• Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and
• Life Insurance Corporation (LIC)
• Allocating a portion of their portfolios for climate-aligned investments.

c) Regulatory Reforms

• Developing clear ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) guidelines.
• Creating long-term pipelines of green projects with measurable outcomes.
• Encouraging SEBI-regulated green bonds and sovereign sustainability bonds.

d) Leveraging Carbon Markets

• India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) can attract new finance streams if implemented transparently.
• Carbon markets can finance adaptation, loss, and damage in vulnerable regions.

e) Technological Integration

• Using AI-based risk assessment, blockchain for transparency, and climate data platforms for efficient fund flow and monitoring.

UPSC Mains Q. “While India has made impressive strides in renewable energy expansion, the lack of adequate and inclusive climate finance remains the biggest challenge to achieving its sustainable energy goals.” Examine the causes of this financing gap and suggest measures to bridge it.

Nations must prepare to deal with stablecoins: Sitharaman 

  Syllabus Mapping: GS Paper 3: GS Paper 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment; Challenges to internal security through communication networks 

  Context

• At the Kautilya Economic Conclave (2025), Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that countries must be prepared to “engage with stablecoins” — digital assets designed to maintain a stable value.
• The statement reflects a potential shift in India’s cryptocurrency policy, amid the global evolution of digital currencies and cross-border financial systems.
• The minister noted that innovations in cryptocurrency are reshaping the landscape of money and capital flows, forcing nations to adapt to new monetary architectures or risk exclusion from emerging financial ecosystems.

What are Stablecoins?

• A stablecoin is a crypto asset that aims to maintain a stable value relative to a specified fiat currency, a basket of currencies, or commodities like gold.
• They differ from volatile cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin) by being pegged to real assets.
• Examples: USDT (Tether), USDC (USD Coin), and DAI.
• Stability is ensured through mechanisms like:
• Asset-backed reserves, or
• Algorithmic balancing, or
• Centralized issuance and redemption (minting/burning).

Detailed Analysis

1. Global Context and Financial Transformation

• Cryptocurrencies, including stablecoins, are transforming monetary and capital systems.
• They blur the boundaries between private finance and sovereign currency systems.
• Stablecoins are increasingly used for:
• Cross-border payments,
• DeFi (Decentralized Finance) platforms, and
• Hedging against volatility in local currencies.
• According to the IMF, stablecoins have grown exponentially, raising questions about financial stability, regulation, and monetary sovereignty.

2. India’s Policy Position

• India currently has not legalized cryptocurrencies as regulated assets but taxes digital transactions under the Finance Act, 2022.
• The RBI has consistently warned against private cryptocurrencies due to risks of:
• Money laundering,
• Terror financing, and
• Macroeconomic instability.
• However, India is simultaneously piloting its own Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) — the Digital Rupee, which has the legal backing of the Indian currency.
• The Finance Minister’s remarks indicate a nuanced approach — neither blanket rejection nor uncritical adoption, but preparation for systemic adaptation.

3. Strategic and Economic Implications a) Monetary Sovereignty:

• Stablecoins can challenge sovereign control over money supply and interest rate mechanisms.
• Nations must ensure monetary independence is not undermined by private digital currencies pegged to foreign assets.

b) Regulatory Challenge:

• The key challenge lies in creating regulatory frameworks for stablecoins that balance:
• Innovation,
• Consumer protection, and
• Systemic stability.
• There’s a need for international coordination, possibly under the G20 or IMF, to ensure cross-border regulatory coherence.

c) Financial Inclusion vs. Risk:

• While stablecoins can reduce transaction costs and enhance inclusion (especially in remittances), they also risk capital flight and shadow financial systems if unregulated.

d) India’s Economic Leverage:

• FM Sitharaman noted India’s strong economic fundamentals, resilience to external shocks, and evolving economic leverage.
• She linked technological preparedness and financial vigilance as keys to maintaining strategic independence.

UPSC Mains Q. “Stablecoins represent both innovation and risk in the evolving global financial system. Discuss how India can balance regulatory caution with technological readiness to ensure monetary stability and financial inclusion.”

Treat employment as a national priority

Syllabus Mapping:
GS Paper 3 — Indian Economy and issues relating to growth, employment, and inclusive development. 

  Context India, one of the world’s youngest nations, is projected to add 133 million people to its working-age population (15–64 years) over the next 25 years — nearly 18% of the global workforce growth. However, this demographic dividend will peak around 2043, giving India a narrow window to convert its youth potential into productive employment.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) stresses that employment generation must be treated as a national priority, with a unified and comprehensive framework for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable growth.

  What the Issue is All About

• Employment generation is vital for:
• Equity and inclusion — lifting millions out of poverty.
• Reducing regional and social disparities.
• Ensuring stable economic growth through enhanced consumption.
• Despite several state and central initiatives, India lacks a unified national employment policy that holistically addresses the issues of unemployment, underemployment, and skill mismatches.

Core Content Analysis

1. The Demographic Dividend Challenge

• India’s demographic advantage can become a liability if adequate employment opportunities are not created.
• Quality jobs at scale are necessary to prevent a “jobless growth” situation.
• Employment policy must be integrated with industrial strategy, education reform, and skilling systems.

2. Focus on Long-Term Job Creation

• Short-term, fragmented schemes are insufficient.
• A long-term, stable investment climate is needed to encourage job-intensive sectors.
• College curricula and vocational education should align with industry demands.
• Employment-linked skilling programs should target Tier-II and Tier-III cities, where labour supply is abundant.

3. Governance and Institutional Framework

• Proposal for a National Employment Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, to coordinate efforts.
• Empowered group of secretaries and district planning committees could assess local employment challenges.
• Implementation of the Four Labour Codes and stronger labour market information systems are essential.

4. Sectoral Priorities for Employment Growth

• Job creation must focus on labour-intensive sectors such as:
• Textiles & apparel
• Tourism & hospitality
• Real estate & construction
• Agro-processing and MSMEs
• Healthcare and education
• Renewable energy and manufacturing
• Targeted interventions like urban internships, industrial hubs, and rural BPOs can boost regional employment.

5. Strengthening Women’s Participation

• Female labour force participation (FLFP) remains below 30%, limiting inclusive growth.
• Focus areas include:
• Workplace safety and childcare support.
• Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) and Anganwadi strengthening.
• Awareness campaigns to shift societal attitudes toward women’s work.
• The Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme can be used to promote women-led industries.

6. Ensuring Job Quality

• Employment should not just be about quantity but quality — ensuring fair contracts, living wages, and social security.
• A centralised employment registry can track onboarding and prevent worker exploitation.

7. Employment Data and Research

• High-quality real-time employment data is critical for informed policymaking.
• A dedicated task force can expand coverage to informal and rural sectors, reducing data asymmetry between surveys.

UPSC Mains Q. “India’s demographic dividend can turn into a demographic disaster unless employment generation is treated as a national priority.” Discuss with reference to policy reforms and institutional mechanisms required to address jobless growth.

Why is ADR crucial for India’s courts?

Syllabus Mapping:
GS Paper 2 – Structure, organization, and functioning of the judiciary; Government policies for access to justice; mechanisms for dispute resolution; legal reforms. Context India’s justice delivery system faces an unprecedented backlog — over 4.57 crore pending cases across all levels of the judiciary (as per the National Judicial Data Grid).
This chronic delay threatens access to justice, increases litigation costs, and erodes public faith in the system.
Against this backdrop, the Minister of Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, has reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a faster, cost-effective, and socially inclusive mechanism for resolving disputes.

  What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)? 

 ADR refers to methods of resolving disputes outside the formal court system. It promotes consensus-based decision-making, reducing both cost and pendency.

The constitutional basis of ADR lies in Article 39A of the Constitution, which mandates the state to ensure equal access to justice.

  Major ADR Mechanisms in India:

1. Arbitration – Legally binding dispute resolution decided by an arbitrator. 

 2. Conciliation & Mediation – Non-binding settlement processes facilitated by a neutral third party. 

 3. Judicial Settlement (Lok Adalats) – Quasi-judicial bodies providing final settlements for disputes. 

 4. Negotiation – Direct discussion between disputing parties to reach a voluntary agreement. 

  Constitutional and Legal Basis

• Article 39A: Ensures free and equal access to justice for all.
• Section 89, Code of Civil Procedure (1908): Legally recognises ADR methods like arbitration, conciliation, mediation, and Lok Adalats.
• Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: Institutionalises Lok Adalats and Permanent Lok Adalats.
• Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 (amended 2021): Provides a legal framework for arbitration and conciliation.
• The Arbitration Act, 2021 Amendment: Introduced Indian Arbitration Council, fixed a 180-day limit for dispute resolution, ensuring timely disposal.

How do Lok Adalats Function?

• Governed by the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, Lok Adalats are based on the doctrine of Panch Parmeshwar, rooted in India’s traditional community justice.
• The first Lok Adalat was held in Gujarat (1999).
• Decisions are final and binding, with no appeal (except in cases of dissatisfaction).
• Pre-litigation mediation helps resolve disputes before they enter formal court proceedings — a vital step in preventing backlog escalation.

Why Strengthening ADR is Crucial 

  1. Massive Case Backlog: o Over 4.57 crore pending cases in India. o High Courts: ~62.9 lakh cases pending. o Supreme Court: ~81,768 cases pending. 

  2. Judicial Vacancies: o 33% in High Courts and 21% in District Courts. 3. High Costs and Delays: o Formal litigation is time-consuming and expensive. o ADR offers cost-effective, speedy, and mutually agreeable outcomes. 

  4. Social and Economic Benefits: o Encourages amicable resolution and reduces adversarial conflicts. o Strengthens community-level dispute redressal mechanisms. 

  5. Reducing Inter-State Disparities: o The India Justice Report 2025 notes significant differences in case pendency between states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Himachal Pradesh. o ADR can bridge these gaps by decentralising dispute resolution. 

Benefits of ADR

Challenges in ADR Implementation

• Lack of trained mediators and arbitrators.
• Limited awareness among citizens about ADR options.
• Weak enforcement of arbitral awards in lower courts.
• Institutional bottlenecks in state legal service authorities.

Potential Mains Question Q. “Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is not just a mechanism for speedy justice but a cornerstone of social harmony and access to justice in India.” Discuss.

Make wheat straw into tableware, end stubble burning 

  GS Paper 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Major crops - cropping patterns in various parts of the country

  Context

• Every year, India faces severe air pollution due to stubble burning, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh, where large quantities of wheat and paddy residue are burnt after harvest.
• To address this environmental challenge, researchers at IIT Roorkee have developed an innovative technology that converts wheat straw into eco-friendly tableware, offering a sustainable solution to both pollution and rural income generation.
• This initiative aligns with India’s goals of circular economy, waste-to-wealth, and plastic waste reduction.

What is it all about?

• The project was developed at the INNOPAP Lab (Innovations in Paper and Packaging) of IIT Roorkee in collaboration with Parason Machinery India (Aurangabad).
• It aims to convert wheat straw—an agricultural residue often burnt after harvest—into biodegradable tableware such as plates, cups, and packaging materials.
• The technology relies on the pulping process, where 1 kg of straw produces about 400–450 g of pulp, sufficient for large-scale tableware production.

Detailed Analysis 

  1. Environmental Significance

• India generates over 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste annually, with wheat straw forming a large share.
• Most of this is burnt, leading to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O), and soil nutrient loss.
• Converting straw into pulp and tableware prevents burning, thereby:
• Reducing air pollution and smog formation in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
• Mitigating climate change impacts by lowering carbon emissions.
• Promoting soil health by preventing nutrient depletion.

2. Waste-to-Wealth and Rural Income Generation

• The innovation creates a market for agricultural residues, providing additional income to farmers.
• This supports the government’s Waste to Wealth Mission under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM 2.0) and Circular Economy initiatives.
• The model fosters rural entrepreneurship and local employment in small-scale processing units.

3. Technical Features – Why Wheat Straw?

• Wheat straw contains 40–50% cellulose, making it ideal for pulp production and strong tableware.
• Other components like hemicellulose and lignin help in binding cellulose fibres, enhancing product durability.
• Products made are:
• Durable, heat-resistant, and food-safe
• Biodegradable and compostable
• Suitable for replacing single-use plastics

4. Application and Expansion Potential

• Products extend beyond plates and cups to include multi-compartment tableware, food packaging, and cushioning materials for electronics.
• Aligns with Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016, amended 2022) which promote alternatives to single-use plastics.
• Embodies “Mitti se Mitti Tak” philosophy — returning materials to the soil without harm.

5. Government Linkages and Policy Relevance

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2026 — innovation helps curb stubble-related emissions.
• National Bioeconomy Strategy (DBT): Promotes bio-based products and value addition from agricultural residues.
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) & GOBARdhan Scheme: Encourage waste management and rural circular economy.
• Startup India Mission: Encourages tech-driven sustainability startups — IIT-led innovation fits under this ecosystem.

UPSC Prelims

 2. Wheat straw is preferred because of its high cellulose content, essential for producing durable pulp products.

 3. The project aligns with the objectives of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

 (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 

 Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Greener way to get rare-earths out of e-waste

GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation 

  Context

• Rice University researchers (USA) have developed a new technique — Flash Joule Heating with Chlorination (FJH-Cl₂) — to recover rare-earth elements (REEs) such as samarium, neodymium, and cobalt from discarded electronic waste (e-waste).
• The method enables over 90% purity and yield in a single-step process, offering an energy-efficient and environment-friendly alternative to traditional extraction techniques.
• This innovation aligns with the global push for sustainable resource recovery, circular economy, and reduction of hazardous e-waste, particularly relevant for India’s growing electronic manufacturing and green technology sectors.

What is it all about?

• Rare-earth elements (REEs) are crucial for manufacturing electronics, wind turbines, electric vehicle motors, batteries, and defence systems.
• Current extraction methods from ores or e-waste are highly energy-intensive, generate toxic waste, and use acids and water, causing environmental degradation.
• The new FJH-Cl₂ method significantly reduces:
• Energy use by 87%
• Greenhouse gas emissions by 84%
• Operational costs by more than half
• It also eliminates acid and water usage while producing useful by-products.

Detailed Analysis 

  1. The Technology – FJH-Cl₂ Method

• Flash Joule Heating (FJH):
• Rapidly heats e-waste materials to temperatures exceeding 3,000°C within seconds, breaking down complex compounds.
• Chlorination Step (Cl₂):
• Chlorine gas reacts with metals to form metal chlorides, which are easier to separate and purify.
• Outcome:
• Rare-earth elements like samarium, neodymium, and cobalt are extracted in high purity.
• Entire process occurs in a single step, improving efficiency and scalability.

2. Environmental Significance

• Traditional extraction (pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy) generates acidic wastewater and toxic fumes.
• FJH-Cl₂ eliminates such pollution, contributing to:
• Reduced environmental footprint
• Cleaner production cycles
• Advancement in green mining and recycling
• Supports UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) —
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
• SDG 13: Climate Action

3. Strategic Importance of Rare Earths

• REEs are often called “vitamins of modern technology” due to their indispensable role in high-tech manufacturing.
• Global supply is dominated by China (≈85%), giving it strategic leverage.
• Sustainable recovery from e-waste reduces dependence on imports and strengthens resource security.

4. Relevance to India 

  a) India’s Rare-Earth Potential & Challenges:

• India has deposits of REEs in Monazite sands (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha), but extraction remains limited.
• India imports most neodymium and cobalt used in EVs and renewable energy systems.

b) Policy and Institutional Framework:

• Ministry of Mines and Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) regulate rare-earth extraction.
• Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) and CSIR-NML (National Metallurgical Laboratory) work on indigenous REE processing technologies.
• India has launched the National E-Waste Management Rules (2022) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to promote recycling and recovery of valuable metals.
• Gati Shakti Plan and Atmanirbhar Bharat emphasize domestic capability in critical mineral processing.

c) Strategic Implication:

• As India transitions to clean energy and electric mobility, demand for REEs is expected to grow manifold.
• Adopting green extraction techniques like FJH-Cl₂ can reduce environmental costs and enhance supply resilience.

UPSC Prelims Q. With reference to the new method developed by Rice University to extract rare-earth elements from e-waste, consider the following statements: 

 1. The method combines Flash Joule Heating with Chlorination (FJH-Cl₂) to recover elements such as samarium, neodymium, and cobalt. 

 2. It eliminates the use of water and acids, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80%. 

 3. The process can achieve over 90% purity and yield of rare-earth elements in a single step.

 4. India’s Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

 (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1 and 2 only 

 Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

Webb Space telescope spots potential ‘dark stars’ 

  Context

• Astronomers have discovered evidence suggesting that some of the earliest luminous objects in the universe might not be ordinary stars formed through nuclear fusion.
• These may be “dark stars”, powered instead by dark matter annihilation — a completely different energy source.
• The findings were made using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which detected four candidates whose light patterns fit the theoretical predictions for supermassive dark stars.
• If confirmed, these could fundamentally change our understanding of star formation, dark matter, and the early universe.

What are “Dark Stars”?

• Dark stars are a hypothetical class of stars proposed by cosmologists to explain unusually bright objects in the early universe.
• Unlike ordinary stars that derive their energy from nuclear fusion, dark stars are believed to be powered by the annihilation of dark matter particles.
• These stars would emit light due to this annihilation, making them visible to telescopes like JWST even though their internal mechanism is fundamentally different.

Detailed Analysis

1. How Dark Stars Form

• In the early universe (around 200 million years after the Big Bang), dense regions of dark matter could have formed halos that gravitationally attracted ordinary (baryonic) matter.
• As gas collected and cooled in these halos, dark matter particles (like WIMPs – Weakly Interacting Massive Particles) might have annihilated, releasing energy.
• This process could prevent the gas from collapsing fully, creating large, luminous but cool “dark stars.”

2. Significance of the Discovery

• These dark stars could be supermassive — up to 10 million times the mass of the Sun — and may have acted as precursors to supermassive black holes.
• Their detection can:
• Explain the unusual brightness of early galaxies seen by JWST.
• Provide indirect evidence for dark matter, one of the biggest mysteries in physics.
• Redefine theories of stellar evolution and galactic formation.

3. Role of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

• JWST’s infrared capability allows it to look 13+ billion years back in time, to when the first stars and galaxies were forming.
• It detected four objects whose brightness and spectra matched predictions for dark stars rather than early galaxies.
• Future JWST observations will focus on spectral signatures to confirm whether these objects truly differ from conventional fusion-powered stars.

James Webb Space Telescope vs. Hubble Space Telescope

Feature	James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)	Hubble Space Telescope (HST)
Launched by	NASA, ESA, CSA (2021)	NASA, ESA (1990)
Orbit Location	Sun–Earth Lagrange Point L2 (~1.5 million km from Earth)	Low Earth Orbit (~547 km)
Primary Mirror Size	6.5 meters	2.4 meters
Wavelength Range	Infrared (0.6–28 μm)	Ultraviolet, Visible, Near-Infrared (0.1–2.5 μm)
Main Objective	Study early universe, galaxy formation, exoplanet atmospheres	Study visible galaxies, nebulae, and nearby stars
Cooling Mechanism	Cryogenic cooling to -233°C for infrared detection	Operates at ambient temperature (~21°C)
Resolution	~10x higher sensitivity in IR than Hubble	Excellent optical imaging, limited IR capacity
Energy Source	Solar array	Solar array
Primary Advantage	Can look farther back in time and through dust clouds	Provides visible and UV clarity
Notable Achievements	Detected oldest galaxies, potential “dark stars,” exoplanet spectra	Discovered accelerating universe, Hubble Deep Field images

5. India’s Relevance

• India is expanding its participation in space astrophysics through missions like:
• ASTROSAT – India’s first multi-wavelength space observatory.
• XPoSat (2024) – studies X-ray polarization of cosmic sources.
• Indian researchers are part of international collaborations analyzing JWST data.

UPSC Prelims 

Q. With reference to the recent findings from the James Webb Space Telescope, consider the following statements: 

 1. “Dark Stars” are powered by nuclear fusion of hydrogen and helium similar to normal stars. 

 2. The James Webb Space Telescope operates primarily in the infrared spectrum. 

 3. Hubble Space Telescope, unlike JWST, is placed at the Lagrange Point L2 to minimize Earth’s interference.

 Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

 (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 2 and 3 only

 Answer: (b) 2 only

British and Indian warships begin four-day maritime exercise Konkan in Indian Ocean 

  Syllabus: GS Paper 2 (International Relations):India and its neighbourhood relations. GS Paper 3 (Security & Defence Technology): Maritime security challenges and India’s response, Strategic significance of Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific. 

  Context

• The United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, began a four-day maritime exercise KONKAN-25 with the Indian Navy in the Western Indian Ocean.
• This edition of Exercise Konkan marks a significant milestone, being the first-ever involving the carrier strike groups of both nations — the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales and India’s INS Vikrant.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, joint maritime awareness, and aerial defence capabilities between the two navies, reinforcing shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

What is it all about?

• Exercise KONKAN is a bilateral naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy (UK).
• It was first conducted in 2004 and traditionally held biennially, though interactions (both harbour and sea phases) continue regularly.
• The 2025 edition represents the highest level of operational cooperation yet, integrating carrier task force operations, anti-submarine warfare, and air defence drills.
• This exercise is part of the UK’s larger Operation Highmast, an eight-month multinational deployment involving engagements across the Indo-Pacific.

Detailed Analysis 

  1. Key Highlights of KONKAN-25

• Participating Assets:
• UK: HMS Prince of Wales, destroyers, frigates, and support vessels.
• India: INS Vikrant, P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft, MiG-29K fighters, and anti-submarine units.
• Objective:
• To strengthen maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine operations, and cross-deck flying operations.
• To enhance jointness between naval and air forces of both nations.
• Scope of Operations:
• Anti-submarine warfare drills.
• Aerial defence exercises with the Indian Air Force.
• Maritime trade protection and amphibious operations simulations.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) training components.

2. Strategic Significance a) Indo-Pacific Cooperation

• Reflects India’s growing role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Aligns with the U.K.–India Vision 2035, emphasizing joint defence cooperation and a free and open Indo-Pacific.
• Demonstrates the “living bridge” of cultural and strategic ties between the two nations.

b) Maritime Diplomacy

• Enhances strategic interoperability among allied navies in response to rising maritime challenges such as:
• Chinese naval presence in the IOR,
• Piracy and illegal fishing, and
• Maritime terrorism and smuggling.
• Promotes cooperation under the Commonwealth Maritime Framework and Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).

c) Defence Industrial Collaboration

• Reinforces the defence partnership under the India–UK Defence Partnership Roadmap 2030.
• Opens avenues for joint defence R&D, underwater domain awareness systems, and carrier-based aviation cooperation.

3. India–UK Naval Relations Overview

Exercise	Partner	Domain	Purpose
KONKAN	UK	Naval	Maritime cooperation and interoperability
AUSTRA HIND	Australia	Army	Counter-terror and combined training
VARUNA	France	Naval	Blue-water capability and carrier ops
INDRA	Russia	Tri-service	Defence coordination
YUDH ABHYAS	USA	Army	Counter-insurgency and peacekeeping
GARUDA SHAKTI	Indonesia	Army	Counter-terrorism
SIMBEX	Singapore	Naval	Anti-submarine and maritime ops

4. Broader Indo-Pacific Context

• The exercise reinforces a coalition of like-minded maritime democracies ensuring the security of the Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs).
• Strengthens Quad+ cooperation, complementing India’s engagement with the US, Japan, France, and Australia.
• Showcases India’s growing blue-water navy capability with INS Vikrant as an indigenous aircraft carrier centerpiece.

UPSC Prelims 

 Q. Match the following bilateral/multilateral naval exercises with their partner countries:

Exercise	Partner Country
1. KONKAN	A. France
2. VARUNA	B. United Kingdom
3. SIMBEX	C. Singapore
4. INDRA	D. Russia

Select the correct answer using the code below: (a) 1–A, 2–B, 3–C, 4–D
(b) 1–B, 2–A, 3–C, 4–D
(c) 1–C, 2–D, 3–A, 4–B
(d) 1–D, 2–B, 3–A, 4–C 

 Answer: (b) 1–B, 2–A, 3–C, 4–D

Drug makers must comply with revised norms: Govt. 

  GS2 – Governance, Health, and Regulation GS3 – Science & Technology, Economy (Developments in biotech and pharmaceutical technologies). Context

• The Union Health Ministry has directed strict compliance by all pharmaceutical manufacturers with the revised Schedule M norms for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
• The directive follows the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan linked to the consumption of a toxic cough syrup containing Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — a chemical not fit for human use.
• The government has warned that licenses of non-compliant manufacturing units will be cancelled.
• The move aims to ensure product safety, quality assurance, and global alignment of Indian pharmaceutical standards.

What is it all about? Revised Schedule M (2023-24)

• Schedule M under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 specifies Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for the manufacture, storage, and distribution of drugs.
• The revised version, notified in December 2023, seeks to modernize pharmaceutical quality systems and align Indian norms with WHO and international GMP guidelines.
• It mandates:
• Computerised storage and monitoring systems,
• Stringent quality testing,
• Product validation,
• Periodic audits and training,
• Risk-based inspections, and
• Traceability in manufacturing processes.
• The Pharmaceutical Quality System and Quality Risk Management are now mandatory for all manufacturers.

Detailed Analysis 

  1. Background and Trigger

• The directive comes after laboratory reports detected Diethylene Glycol (DEG) contamination in Coldfri cough syrup, manufactured in Tamil Nadu, following the death of children in Betul (M.P.).
• DEG is a toxic industrial solvent sometimes illegally used as a cheaper substitute for glycerin or propylene glycol in syrups.
• This incident follows earlier global tragedies involving Indian-made cough syrups linked to deaths in Gambia and Uzbekistan (2022), raising concerns over India’s drug regulatory mechanisms.

2. Key Features of the Revised Schedule 

Aspect	Earlier Provisions	Revised Provisions (2023)
Quality System	Basic documentation	Full Pharmaceutical Quality System (PQS) mandatory
Storage	Manual or semi-automated	Computerised inventory and temperature control
Testing	Sample-based	Batch-wise risk-based testing and validation
Personnel Training	General training	Mandatory certification and periodic upskilling
Infrastructure	Basic GMP rooms	Dedicated clean rooms, HVAC control, digital logs
Compliance Frequency	Occasional inspections	Periodic third-party and CDSCO audits

3. Objective and Expected Outcomes

• To prevent contamination and substandard drug production.
• To restore global confidence in India’s role as the “Pharmacy of the World.”
• To align Indian standards with WHO-GMP, enabling export to regulated markets like the U.S. and EU.
• To create a robust quality culture across India’s 10,000+ manufacturing units, especially small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

4. Broader Pharmaceutical Regulatory Framework Key Institutions:

• Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) – apex regulatory body under the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).
• State Drug Control Departments – monitor local manufacturers and distribution.
• Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) – sets drug quality standards.

Related Legislations:

• Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940
• Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013
• Pharmaceutical Policy, 2012
• National Medical Devices Policy, 2023

5. Schedules of Drugs – UPSC-Relevant Overview

Schedule	Description
Schedule M	Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical products.
Schedule H	Prescription drugs – can be sold only with a doctor’s prescription.
Schedule G	Drugs to be used under medical supervision (e.g., hormones, antibiotics).
Schedule X	Narcotic and psychotropic substances; strict storage & record maintenance required.
Schedule P	Specifies standards of storage and expiry for drugs.
Schedule Y	Governs clinical trials and approval of new drugs.
Schedule T	Pertains to Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani drug manufacturing.
Schedule C & C1	Biological and special products like vaccines, sera, insulin, etc.
Schedule K	Drugs exempted from provisions of manufacture and sale under specific conditions.

6. Children’s Death and Regulatory Response

• Preliminary tests showed that 9 out of 10 syrup samples failed quality checks, with one containing DEG.
• Tamil Nadu Food and Drugs Administration has suspended manufacturing licenses and initiated criminal proceedings.
• The CDSCO has recommended nationwide inspection of cough syrup units to ensure compliance.

7. India’s Global Pharmaceutical Reputation

• India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 20% of the world’s generics and 60% of global vaccine demand.
• Incidents of substandard exports can damage India’s credibility in global health supply chains.
• Strengthening Schedule M compliance is crucial to maintain India’s leadership under initiatives like Pharma Vision 2020 and Make in India (Health Manufacturing).

UPSC Prelims Q. With reference to the Schedules under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, consider the following pairs:

Schedule	Description
1. Schedule M	Good Manufacturing Practices for drugs
2. Schedule H	Drugs that can be sold without prescription
3. Schedule X	Narcotic and psychotropic substances
4. Schedule Y	Clinical trials and new drug approvals

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 

 (a) 1, 3 and 4 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2 and 4 only 

 Answer: (a) 1, 3 and 4 only

Philippines pioneers coral larvae cryobank to protect threatened reefs 

  Syllabus Mapping

• GS Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Climate Change, Biodiversity

Context

• The Philippines has launched a pioneering initiative to freeze and preserve coral larvae in a cryobank, marking a significant step in global coral conservation.
• This project, under the Coral Triangle Initiative, aims to protect genetic diversity of coral species amid increasing threats from climate change, coral bleaching, pollution, and ocean acidification.
• The initiative will help revive damaged reefs, strengthen marine biodiversity, and secure livelihoods dependent on coral ecosystems.

What is it all about? Cryobank for Coral Larvae

• The cryobank will freeze coral larvae (tiny, free-swimming coral “seeds”) at extremely low temperatures, ensuring long-term preservation.
• These preserved larvae can later be revived and used to restore damaged reefs.
• The approach is part of a broader plan to create cryobanks across the Coral Triangle — a region that hosts the world’s richest marine biodiversity.

About the Coral Triangle

• The Coral Triangle is known as the “Amazon of the Seas.”
• It spans 5.7 million sq. km across the tropical waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste.
• It hosts:
• 75% of the world’s coral species
• 37% of coral reef fish
• Six of seven marine turtle species
• The region supports the food security and livelihoods of over 120 million people.

Why is this Important? 

  1. Climate Change and Coral Decline

• As per UNEP’s Status of Coral Reefs of the World 2020 Report, the planet lost 14% of corals between 2009–2018.
• Rising sea temperatures (above 1.5°C) cause coral bleaching, threatening extinction by 2050 without urgent action.
• Pollution, overfishing, and destructive tourism further endanger coral health.

2. Innovation: Cryopreservation Technology

• Cryopreservation means freezing biological material at very low temperatures to stop all biological activity and decay.
• Coral larvae are flash-frozen using liquid nitrogen at –196°C, preserving them for decades.
• This method prevents genetic loss, allowing scientists to later “reseed” coral reefs with revived larvae.

How It Works

  3. “Genetic Insurance Policy” for the Future

• The initiative acts as a “genetic bank” to preserve the biodiversity of corals that might otherwise go extinct.
• The preserved larvae form a seed bank for research and revival efforts.
• The approach is being hailed as a “climate adaptation and resilience strategy.”

Scientific and Conservation Significance

Aspect	Significance
Ecological	Restores damaged coral reefs and maintains marine biodiversity.
Scientific	Preserves genetic material for research on climate resilience.
Economic	Protects livelihoods dependent on fishing and tourism.
Climate Adaptation	Provides a buffer against coral extinction due to global warming.

4. India’s Coral Conservation Context (Value Addition)

• India has four major coral reef areas:
• Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu)
• Gulf of Kachchh (Gujarat)
• Lakshadweep Islands
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Protected under:
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (as part of marine biodiversity)
• Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules
• Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Programme
• Initiatives such as the Coral Reef Conservation Programme by MoEFCC and UNDP-GEF projects aim to strengthen coral ecosystem protection.

UPSC Prelims Q. Consider the following statements about the Coral Triangle: 1. It spans across six countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. 2. It is home to more than half of the world’s coral species. 3. It is located in the Western Indian Ocean. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

 Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Xenobiology: beyond earth 

  Syllabus mapping: GS3: Science and Technology – Developments and their applications

  Context

• Xenobiology is a rapidly growing scientific discipline that explores how life could exist using biological systems different from those found on Earth.
• The term comes from the Greek word meaning “the study of alien life.”

What is Xenobiology?

• It investigates whether Earth-like life (based on DNA, RNA, and proteins made from 20 amino acids) is the only possible form of life.
• The field explores alternative genetic codes, unusual chemical bonds, and life forms that could exist in environments where water is replaced by other solvents like methane or ammonia (e.g., Titan, a moon of Saturn).

Laboratory Research

• Scientists experiment by engineering bacteria with extra DNA bases beyond the natural A, T, C, and G — producing novel proteins and functions.
• Synthetic cells are also designed to store information in artificial molecules or operate on new metabolic pathways.
• These experiments test what defines “life” and the biochemical limits of evolution.

Applications and Ethical Value

• Xenobiology has practical benefits in biotechnology and medicine:
• Programming microbes to produce drugs or neutralize toxic waste.
• Designing organisms that cannot survive outside labs, ensuring biosafety.
• It also raises ethical questions about the creation of synthetic life and genetic boundaries.

UPSC Prelims Q. With reference to Xenobiology, consider the following statements: 

 1. It studies life forms that depend only on DNA and RNA as found on Earth. 

 2. It involves creating or studying organisms with alternative genetic codes. 

 3. It has potential applications in biotechnology and astrobiology. Which of the statements given above are correct? 

 (a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

 Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only

Indian Navy to commission INS Androth on October 6

Syllabus Mapping

• GS Paper 3: Security – Internal and External Security; Defence Technology; Indigenisation of Defence Production.

Context 

 The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Androth on October 6, 2025, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. It is the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) under construction by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

  What is it all about?

• INS Androth is designed for anti-submarine warfare operations in coastal waters.
• It is part of India’s push for maritime self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat).
• The vessel will enhance the Navy’s capability in detecting and neutralising underwater threats in shallow waters.
• The commissioning follows earlier inductions such as INS Arnala, INS Nistar, INS Udaygiri, and INS Nilgiri, showcasing India's growing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

Significance

• Strengthens India’s Eastern Naval Command in the Bay of Bengal.
• Improves coastal defence, surveillance, and anti-submarine operations.
• Promotes Make in India through indigenous design and construction.

UPSC Prelims

Q. INS Androth, recently in news, is associated with which of the following?

(a) Amphibious assault operations
(b) Anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters
(c) Long-range missile defence
(d) Space-based naval communication 

 Answer: (b) Anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters

India’s First Private Helicopter Assembly Line at Vemagal, Karnataka

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology / Defence and Infrastructure

  Context: India is set to establish its first helicopter final assembly line in the private sector at Vemagal, Kolar district, Karnataka. The facility will be set up by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to produce Airbus H125 helicopters, marking a significant milestone in India’s aerospace manufacturing sector. 

  Key Points:

• Developer: Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in collaboration with Airbus.
  
  
• Location: Vemagal, Kolar district, Karnataka.
  
  
• Objective: To boost aerospace capabilities and meet both defence and civil aviation requirements.
  
  
• Model: Production of ‘Made in India’ H125 helicopters for multiple operational uses.
  
  

Significance of the Assembly Line:

• The H125 is a light, versatile helicopter suitable for civil, para-public, and defence operations.
  
  
• Supports armed forces operations in the Himalayan region, where light multi-role helicopters are essential.
  
  
• The first helicopter is expected to be delivered by early 2027.
  
  

Military Variant and Indigenous Technology:

• A military version (H125M) will be developed with indigenous components and technology.
  
  
  
• Enhances self-reliance and reduces dependence on imported defence equipment.
  
  
• Strengthens India’s defence industrial base and promotes Atmanirbhar Bharat in aerospace.
  
  
  

Export Potential and Regional Impact:

• The ‘Made in India’ H125 will be exported to South Asian markets.
  
  
• Positions India as a regional hub for helicopter manufacturing and exports.
  
  
• Boosts employment, local supply chains, and industrial growth in Karnataka.
  
  
  

Tata–Airbus Partnership:

• This is TASL’s second collaboration with Airbus after the C295 military aircraft plant in Vadodara.
  
  
• TASL becomes the first private Indian company to build helicopters.
  
  
• Strengthens India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem for both civil and defence aviation.
  
  
  

Strategic Importance for India:

• Addresses India’s connectivity and security needs across diverse terrains.
  
  
• Promotes technological advancement, innovation, and self-reliance in aerospace.
  
  
• Contributes to nation-building by improving accessibility in remote and border areas.
  
  
  

Source: The Hindu (TH)

APEDA Showcases India’s Agri-Food Potential at World Food India (WFI) 2025

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy / Agriculture / Food Processing and Exports Context: At World Food India (WFI) 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) played a key role in showcasing India’s agri-food innovation, global partnerships, and startup-driven export growth. Key Points:

• Event Role: APEDA served as the Export Partner for the 4th edition of World Food India.
  
  
• Participation: Hosted 142 exhibitors across 120 stalls.
  
  
• Showcased Products: Included GI-tagged items, Basmati rice, millets, organic produce, livestock, and value-added foods.
  
  
• Thematic Zones:
  
  
• GI Gallery: Highlighted India’s heritage and traditional food diversity.
  
  
• BHARTI Zone: Focused on startups and innovation in food exports.
  
  

About APEDA:

• Full Form: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority.
  
  
• Established: 1985, under the APEDA Act passed by Parliament.
  
  
• Replaced: The Processed Food Export Promotion Council (PFEPC).
  
  
• Ministry: Functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  
  
• Headquarters: New Delhi.
  
  

Objectives:

• To develop and promote the export of scheduled products.
  
  
• Exporters of such products must register with APEDA.
  
  
• Scheduled Products Include: Fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, dairy, honey, jaggery, confectionery, and bakery products.
  
  

Functions of APEDA:

• Set standards and specifications for scheduled products.
  
  
• Register exporters and maintain export data.
  
  
• Improve packaging and marketing for export promotion.
  
  
• Inspect and ensure product quality.
  
  
• Conduct training, feasibility studies, and industry development initiatives.
  
  
• Collect and publish statistics related to export industries.
  
  
• Acts as the Secretariat to the National Accreditation Board (NAB) under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) for organic export certification.
  
  

Significance at WFI 2025:

• Strengthened India’s position as a global agri-export hub.
  
  
• Promoted “Make in India” and “Vocal for Local” through global partnerships.
  
  
• Empowered agri-startups and encouraged value-added, sustainable food exports.
  
  
  

Source: The Hindu (TH)

Snow Leopard Population Rises in Himachal Pradesh

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Environment and Biodiversity

Context: 

 Recent surveys in Himachal Pradesh have recorded a rise in the snow leopard population from 51 individuals in 2021 to 83 in 2025, marking a major conservation success. The survey also confirmed the first official sighting of Pallas’s cat and the rediscovery of the woolly flying squirrel. Key Points:

• Survey Period: Conducted between 2024–2025; second comprehensive assessment after 2018–2021.
  
  
• Conducted by: Wildlife Wing, Himachal Pradesh Forest Department in collaboration with the Nature Conservation Foundation.
  
  
• Significance: Himachal Pradesh became India’s first state to estimate snow leopard numbers scientifically and extensively.
  
  
• Result: Population increased to 83, excluding cubs, showing improved conservation efforts in high-altitude habitats.
  
  
  

About Snow Leopard:

• Scientific Classification: Belongs to genus Panthera, family Felidae (Carnivora).
  
  
• IUCN Status: Vulnerable.
  
  
• Global Range: Found in 12 countries across 18 lakh sq. km, mainly in the Tibetan Plateau (China), followed by Mongolia and India.
  
  
  
• Indian Range: Inhabits high-altitude areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
  
  
• Ecological Role: Acts as a top predator and an indicator of mountain ecosystem health and climate change impact.
  
  
  

Threats:

• Poaching and illegal trade.
  
  
• Habitat loss and prey decline.
  
  
• Human-wildlife conflict leading to retaliatory killings.

Global Estimate: According to the Global Snow Leopard & Ecosystem Protection Programme (GSLEP), the world population is roughly 4,000–6,500 individuals. Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI):

• Coordinator: Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
  
  
• Partners: Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysuru and WWF-India.
  
  
• Coverage: Surveyed 70% of potential snow leopard range between 2019–2023.
  
  
  

Source: The Hindu (TH)

India Wins ISSA Award 2025 for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security

Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Governance / Welfare Schemes / Social Justice

  Context: India has achieved a major milestone in expanding social security coverage, reaching 64.3% of its population (940 million people) in 2025, up from just 19% in 2015. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA) recognised this progress, conferring the ISSA Award 2025 for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security at the World Social Security Forum in Kuala Lumpur. 

  Key Points:

• Achievement: Social protection coverage in India rose from 19% (2015) to 64.3% (2025) — now covering over 940 million citizens.
  
  
• Recognition: India received the ISSA Award 2025 for its exemplary progress in social security inclusion and delivery.
  
  
• Global Standing: India now holds the largest voting share (30 votes) in the ISSA General Assembly.
  
  

Expansion of Social Security Coverage:

• Coverage now includes both formal and informal sectors.
  
  
• Driven by government schemes targeting vulnerable and unorganised workers.
  
  
• Demonstrates India’s commitment to inclusive social protection and labour welfare.
  
  

Role of Digital Infrastructure:

• e-Shram Portal: Centralised digital database connecting 310+ million unorganised workers to welfare schemes with a multilingual, user-friendly interface.
  
  
• National Career Service (NCS) Portal: Links skilled job seekers with employers, integrated with e-Shram to ensure continuity of social security benefits even in global job markets.
  
  

Contributions of Key Organisations:

• Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO): Provides pension and savings for workers in the organised sector.
  
  
• Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC): Offers healthcare and insurance to millions of employees and dependents.
  
  
• Both have modernised operations through digital tools and automation for better service delivery.
  
  

Significance:

• Strengthens India’s global leadership in social protection.
  
  
• Enhances inclusive growth and labour market resilience.
  
  
• Aligns with India’s vision of universal social security and digital governance excellence.
  
  
  

Source: The Hindu (TH)