Why in the News?

• The Ministry of Home Affairs is increasingly deploying AI tools for predictive policing, cybercrime detection, and financial fraud prevention.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• AI (AI in Internal Security, Key Initiatives & Tools, etc.)
• News Summary

Artificial Intelligence in Internal Security

• Artificial Intelligence is transforming governance and security frameworks globally.
• In India, AI is being integrated into internal security systems to enhance surveillance, crime detection, and decision-making capabilities.
• Role of AI in Internal Security

• Enables predictive policing by analysing crime patterns.
• Facilitates real-time surveillance and monitoring.
• Enhances cybercrime detection through data analytics.
• Improves coordination among law enforcement agencies.
• AI acts as a force multiplier by enabling faster and more accurate responses to security threats.

Key Initiatives and Tools

• India has developed multiple AI-driven tools to strengthen internal security.
• Predictive Policing
  • AI systems analyse historical data to identify crime-prone areas and patterns.
  • This helps police forces deploy resources more efficiently and prevent crimes before they occur.
• Dark Web Monitoring
  • AI-based tools monitor dark web platforms to track:
    • Phishing campaigns
    • Fraud networks
    • Criminal discussions
  • This enhances the capability to detect cyber threats proactively.

• Mule Hunter Application
  • The Mule Hunter system uses AI and machine learning to identify “mule accounts” used for financial fraud.
  • Developed in collaboration with RBI Innovation Hub.
  • Uses behavioural and transaction data for suspect scoring.
  • Enables real-time detection and blocking of fraudulent transactions.

• Surakshini Initiative
  • Surakshini is a proposed AI-based system for tackling online harmful content.
  • Focuses on Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) and Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery (NCII).
  • Creates a hash database to prevent re-upload of such content.
  • Shifts from reactive takedown to preventive monitoring.

• AI-based Complaint Systems
  • The government is upgrading the cybercrime helpline (1930) with AI-assisted complaint registration.
  • Supports regional languages.
  • Improves accessibility and response time.

News Summary

• The Parliamentary Standing Committee report highlights the increasing role of AI in India’s internal security framework.
• Expansion of AI in Security
  • As mentioned in the report, AI is being used as a “critical enabler” for enhancing operational capabilities across police forces and paramilitary units.
  • This includes real-time surveillance, behavioural analysis, and crime pattern recognition.
• Institutional Collaboration
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs is collaborating with institutions such as:
    • IIT Bombay for AI model development.
    • Reserve Bank Innovation Hub for financial fraud detection.
  • These collaborations aim to build robust and scalable AI systems.

• Cybercrime Monitoring and Prevention
  • The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) is central to AI deployment.
  • AI tools are used to monitor dark web activities and scam networks.
  • Complaint registration is being modernised with AI support.
  • Additionally, AI models are used to screen cyber tipline data for harmful content.

• Financial Fraud Detection
  • The integration of Mule Hunter with banking systems allows:
    • Real-time suspect scoring of transactions.
    • Early identification of fraudulent accounts.
    • Prevention of financial cybercrimes.
  • This marks a shift toward proactive fraud prevention.

• Content Moderation and Online Safety
  • Surakshini will introduce a preventive content moderation framework.
  • Automated hash-matching will prevent the upload of illegal content.
  • Dashboard will track complaints, FIRs, and takedown timelines.
  • This enhances transparency and coordination among agencies.

• Emerging Technologies in Immigration
  • The Immigration, Visa Foreigners Registration and Tracking (IVFRT) 3.0 system, to be launched in April 2026, will integrate AI and blockchain.
  • Enables intelligent traveller profiling.
  • Improves security and authenticity of records.

Challenges and Concerns

• Despite its advantages, AI deployment in internal security raises several concerns.

• Privacy Issues: Increased surveillance may affect individual privacy rights.
• Data Security: Risk of misuse or breach of sensitive data.
• Algorithmic Bias: AI systems may reflect biases in training data.
• Technological Limitations: Some applications, such as document forgery detection, are still under development.

Why in the News?

• The Centre has proposed amendments to the IT Rules, 2021, to expand regulation over social media users and independent news creators.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Online Content Regulation (Key Features of IT Rules, Proposed Amendments, etc.)
• News Summary

Regulation of Online Content in India

• India regulates online content primarily through the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
• Key Features of IT Rules, 2021

• Provide a framework for the regulation of digital media and intermediaries.
• Introduce a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.
• Require social media platforms to exercise due diligence.
• Enable government oversight over digital news and OTT platforms.

• Safe Harbour Provision

• Section 79 of the IT Act grants “safe harbour” protection to intermediaries.
• Platforms are not liable for user-generated content if due diligence is followed.
• Failure to comply with government directions can result in loss of this protection.

• Role of Government

• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) regulates intermediaries.
• Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) oversees digital news and content.
• Blocking orders are issued under Section 69A of the IT Act.

• Significance

• Helps tackle misinformation, fake news, and harmful content.
• Strengthens the accountability of digital platforms.
• Enables faster grievance redressal mechanisms.

Proposed Amendments to IT Rules

• The Centre has proposed significant changes to expand regulatory control over online content.
• Inclusion of Individual Users

• The rules may now apply to individual users posting news or current affairs content.
• Previously, regulation was limited to publishers and platforms.

• Direct Takedown and Blocking Powers

• MIB may be empowered to issue direct blocking orders to users and platforms.
• It can also require users to modify or apologise for content.

• Expansion of the Inter-Departmental Committee

• The Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) will have broader powers.
• It can now hear a wider range of grievances beyond code violations.

• Legal Status of Advisories

• Government advisories to platforms may become legally binding.
• Non-compliance could affect safe harbour protection.

News Summary

• The recent reports highlight a major shift in India’s approach to regulating online content.
• Expansion of Regulatory Scope
  • Independent news creators on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and X may be brought under the regulatory framework.
  • This includes individuals who may not be professional journalists but create content related to current affairs.
• Increased Government Oversight
  • The proposed amendments empower the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to:

• Issue blocking orders directly.
• Seek information about creators from platforms.
• Enforce compliance through regulatory mechanisms.
• This marks a shift from platform-based regulation to direct regulation of users.

• Changes in Takedown Mechanism
  • The government plans to allow takedown notices to be sent directly to individual users.
  • Earlier, such notices were limited to online news publishers.
  • Additionally, the time window for compliance has reportedly been reduced significantly, increasing pressure on platforms to act quickly.
• Impact on Social Media Platforms

• Advisories will become part of due diligence obligations.
• Non-compliance could lead to legal liability.
• Platforms may take down content more aggressively to retain safe harbour.

• Concerns Over Freedom of Expression
  • The proposed changes have raised concerns among civil society groups.
  • Critics argue it may lead to excessive censorship.
  • The Internet Freedom Foundation has termed it a major expansion of regulatory power.
  • There are also concerns about potential misuse against dissenting or satirical content.

• Recent Enforcement Trends
  • The reports indicate an increase in takedown orders in recent weeks.
  • Content related to political criticism and satire has been targeted.
  • AI-generated deepfakes and misinformation are cited as key concerns.
  • This reflects a tightening regulatory environment for digital content.

Challenges and Issues

• Balancing Regulation and Free Speech: Ensuring regulation does not infringe Article 19(1)(a).
• Ambiguity in Definitions: Broad definitions may include unintended users.
• Over-compliance by Platforms: Fear of liability may lead to excessive content removal.
• Judicial Scrutiny: Some provisions of the IT Rules are already under court review.

Why in news?

The recent surrender of a top CPI (Maoist) leader signals a major collapse of the insurgency’s leadership and suggests the movement is nearing its end.

However, while the armed struggle is declining, deeper issues of governance and inequality remain unresolved. The key challenge now is whether the state can convert its security success into lasting public trust, and whether far-left politics can still re-emerge in a changing but unequal India.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• How the Indian State Gained the Upper Hand Over Maoists?
• Origins of Maoism in India
• Managing the Vacuum After Maoist Decline
• Can Maoism Rise Again

How the Indian State Gained the Upper Hand Over Maoists?

• Over the past decade, the Maoist movement has weakened due to sustained pressure on both its leadership and ground network.
• Top leaders from the Central Committee and Politburo have been eliminated, arrested, or surrendered, leading to a fragmented command structure.
• At the same time, improved intelligence, local police involvement, and specialised forces have reduced the Maoists’ traditional advantages in terrain and surprise.
• Sustained military pressure, better governance outreach, and infrastructure development have together weakened the Maoist insurgency. Even Maoist leadership has acknowledged the decline, with cadres being advised to either relocate or surrender.
• Strategic Policy and Security Push
  • The foundation of this success dates back to 2006, when the government identified Maoism as a major internal security threat.
  • A comprehensive strategy was later implemented under the Ministry of Home Affairs, involving large deployment of central forces, modernisation of state police, and the “clear, hold and develop” approach.
  • This meant clearing Maoist strongholds, maintaining control through camps, and extending governance through infrastructure and public services.
  • Subsequent governments continued and intensified this strategy.
• Infrastructure and Ground-Level Expansion
  • The state significantly expanded its presence in remote areas by building over 15,000 km of roads, installing 9,000+ mobile towers, fortifying 656 police stations, and setting up nearly 200 security camps in key Maoist regions, especially in Chhattisgarh and the Andhra–Odisha belt.
• Sharp Decline in Violence and Influence
  • The results have been substantial. Maoist-related violence and deaths have fallen by over 80% since 2010.
  • Affected districts have reduced from nearly 200 in the early 2000s to just 38 by 2025, with only 7 districts currently classified as LWE-affected, and just 3 as most affected (Bijapur, Narayanpur, Sukma).

Origins of Maoism in India

• Maoism in India traces its roots to the Naxalbari uprising of 1967, where early groups viewed India as a “semi-feudal, semi-colonial” society.
• They believed armed struggle was necessary to secure land, dignity, and justice for the poor.
• Spread Across Marginalised Regions
  • Over time, Maoists expanded across the “Red Corridor”, covering parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
  • They gained support by embedding themselves among landless peasants, Dalits, and Adivasis, especially in areas where the state was weak, exploitative, or absent.
• Structural Causes Behind the Movement
  • Several deep-rooted issues created space for Maoism:
    • Unequal land distribution and failed land reforms
    • Bonded labour and caste-based oppression
    • Displacement without proper rehabilitation due to development projects
    • Corruption and abuse by forest and police authorities
    • Exclusion of tribal communities from decisions about land and resources
• Role of Maoists in Local Governance
• In many remote villages, Maoists acted as an alternative authority.
• They resolved disputes, enforced wages, and punished local elites, combining coercion with a sense of justice where formal governance was ineffective.
• State Absence as a Key Factor
  • Experts note that Maoist influence grew not just due to poverty, but because of the absence or invisibility of the state.
  • In many isolated regions, Maoists became the only functioning authority people experienced.

Managing the Vacuum After Maoist Decline

• As Maoist influence fades, the key risk is not their return but the emergence of new alienation or criminal networks in areas where they once controlled power and resources.
• Recognising this, the government has identified 31 “Legacy Thrust” districts for continued security and development support to prevent relapse.
• Focus on Development and Governance
  • The long-term solution lies in effective delivery of development—roads, schools, hospitals, and basic services.
  • Past initiatives, such as infrastructure expansion in Andhra Pradesh and CRPF field hospitals in Chhattisgarh, showed that when the state delivers, people respond positively, even in conflict zones.
• Building Local Institutions
  • A sustainable transition requires replacing external security dominance with local governance structures.
  • This includes recruiting locals into police and administration, expanding police stations, and ensuring functioning schools, healthcare, and grievance redress systems.
  • Experts stress that success depends on strong political will and responsive bureaucracy.
  • Clear direction from leadership must translate into effective governance on the ground to consolidate gains and prevent any resurgence.

Can Maoism Rise Again

• Experts believe a full-scale revival of Maoism is unlikely, as the traditional model of controlling isolated regions has been weakened by better connectivity, roads, mobile networks, and social media, which have increased awareness and aspirations.
  • Earlier, Maoists thrived by dominating remote areas and acting as the only “state.”
• Internal Decline of the Movement
  • The movement has also weakened from within.
  • Declining ideological strength, infiltration of non-committed elements, and failure to attract educated youth have reduced its appeal and organisational strength.
• Inequality: A Continuing Risk Factor
  • While some argue that poverty has not led to widespread urban insurgency, others caution that rising inequality and visible disparities could still create space for far-left ideas, especially if grievances deepen.
  • Instead of a return to armed insurgency, the future may see issue-based, non-violent or low-intensity radicalism in urban and peri-urban areas—focused on land rights, environmental concerns, and job insecurity.
• Role of State Legitimacy
  • With access to multiple viewpoints through digital media, people are less likely to see violence as the only solution.
  • However, the state’s credibility and governance, not just its security strength, will determine whether Maoist-like spaces re-emerge.

Why in news?

The RBI asked banks to limit their foreign currency exposure to $100 million per day to control the falling rupee, amid rising oil prices and inflation concerns due to the West Asia conflict. Banks must follow this rule by April 10.

However, the move did not stop the rupee from weakening—it fell below 95 per dollar and closed around 94.8, while oil prices stayed above $100 per barrel. The decision has also worried banks, as it may lead to financial losses due to market fluctuations.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• RBI's Currency Cap: Stemming the Rupee's Fall
• Why Banks Are Worried About the RBI’s Forex Cap?
• More Measures Likely if Rupee Weakness Continues

RBI's Currency Cap: Stemming the Rupee's Fall

• RBI introduced a cap on banks' foreign currency exposure to stabilise the sharply falling rupee and protect India's dwindling foreign exchange reserves, both of which have come under severe pressure since the West Asian conflict began in late February.
• The rupee has hit a historic low of ₹94.81 against the dollar — a fall of four per cent since the war started — having successively breached the 92, 93, and 94 levels in March alone.
• What the Cap Does?
  • Previously, banks were allowed to hold net open positions (foreign currency exposure) up to 25% of their total capital.
  • The RBI has now significantly tightened this limit. Banks have been directed to unwind large currency positions by April 10, a move designed to trigger a temporary surge in dollar supply and provide immediate relief to the rupee.
  • Notably, the RBI has shifted its strategy from direct market intervention (selling dollars from reserves) to regulatory tightening — a deliberate move to preserve its forex "war chest".
  • Despite this shift in strategy, the RBI's earlier direct interventions have already taken a toll.
  • Forex reserves have fallen by over $30 billion to $698.34 billion since the conflict began — a significant depletion driven by the central bank's dollar sales to defend the rupee.
• The FPI Exodus: Fueling the Pressure
  • A key driver of rupee weakness has been relentless foreign investor selling.
  • Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) were net sellers on every single trading day in March.
  • Several factors have contributed to this sustained exodus:
    • weakness in global equity markets,
    • the rupee's steady depreciation,
    • fears of declining Gulf remittances, and
    • concerns over the impact of high crude oil prices on India's growth and corporate earnings.
• The Broader Warning
  • While the RBI's move signals heightened concern over currency volatility, it also underscores the fragility in India's external balances amid rising oil prices and capital outflows — a combination that will continue to test the central bank's resolve in the weeks ahead.

Why Banks Are Worried About the RBI’s Forex Cap?

• Banks are concerned about the RBI’s new forex exposure cap due to its quick implementation timeline.
• They have requested a transition period of about three months, as an immediate rollout could force them to adjust positions abruptly, increasing the risk of losses.
• Risk of Large-Scale Losses
  • Banks currently hold large dollar positions, and enforcing the cap quickly may require them to unwind exposures worth $11–15 billion across the sector.
  • Selling at unfavourable exchange rates could lead to mark-to-market losses, affecting their treasury books and reducing profits for the March quarter.
  • The new restrictions could also hurt banks’ earnings by limiting currency arbitrage opportunities between onshore and offshore markets.
  • This would reduce an important source of trading income.
• Broader Market Concerns
  • Stricter domestic rules may shift trading activity to offshore markets, where regulations are looser.
  • This could encourage speculative bets against the rupee abroad, increasing volatility and potentially weakening the currency further.

More Measures Likely if Rupee Weakness Continues

• Market observers believe that if the rupee continues to fall, the RBI may introduce additional measures to stabilise the currency and protect forex reserves.
• Lessons from Past Crises
  • During earlier crises like the global financial crisis and taper tantrum, then RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan used multiple tools.
  • These included attracting foreign inflows through the FCNR(B) scheme, which brought in over $30 billion, offering dollar swap windows for oil companies, and raising repo rates to control inflation and boost investor confidence.
    • An FCNR (B) — Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) — account is a fixed deposit account for NRIs/PIOs to hold foreign currency in India.
• Policy and Regulatory Interventions
  • The RBI also eased rules for foreign investments (FPIs and ECBs) and imposed import restrictions, especially on gold, to reduce outflows.
  • These steps helped increase reserves and stabilise the rupee.
  • If the situation worsens, the RBI still has a range of tools—including attracting capital inflows, tightening monetary policy, and managing forex demand—to support the rupee and strengthen reserves.

Context

• The principle of democratic representation in India, as outlined in Article 81, requires that parliamentary seats be distributed among States in proportion to their population.
• This principle functioned effectively in earlier decades when population differences were limited.
• However, with India now the world’s most populous nation and significant demographic divergence across States, strict adherence to population-based allocation raises concerns of fairness.
• The upcoming Census 2026 and subsequent delimitation exercise present an opportunity to reassess this framework.

Changing Demographic Realities

• The 84th Constitutional Amendment Act (2002) extended the freeze on parliamentary seats to encourage population stabilisation.
• Over time, most States have made progress toward achieving the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.1, the level required for stable population growth.
• Yet, disparities persist, with some States maintaining higher fertility rates than others. This uneven progress has created a paradox.
• States that achieved early success in controlling population growth now exhibit lower population increases, while others continue to grow rapidly.
• If representation is based solely on population, high-fertility States could gain greater political representation, while low-fertility States may lose influence despite better governance outcomes. This imbalance challenges the principle of equitable representation.

The Case for Demographic Performance

• A more balanced approach involves incorporating Demographic Performance (DemPer) into seat allocation.
• This method draws from the framework of the Finance Commission, which uses both population size and demographic efficiency in distributing resources.
• Similarly, delimitation can combine population with performance indicators.
• Under this approach, the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats remain unchanged, while additional seats are allocated based on both population and DemPer.
• Two components define DemPer: early achievement of replacement-level fertility (with a 10% weightage) and the rate of fertility decline between 2005 and 2021 (with a 90% weightage).
• This model ensures that all States gain seats, with more populous States receiving higher absolute increases, while protecting the proportional share of better-performing States.
• It maintains the dominance of population as a criterion but introduces fairness by rewarding sustained efforts in population control. 

Federalism and Democratic Equity

• India’s democracy is not only about numerical equality but also about ensuring a fair voice for all States.
• A purely population-based system risks undermining federal stability and creating regional resentment.
• Recognising demographic performance aligns representation with good governance and reinforces incentives for responsible policymaking.
• Importantly, the issue extends beyond a simple north-south divide, as several northern and smaller States have also achieved significant progress in controlling population growth.
• By balancing democratic equality with federal fairness, the delimitation process can enhance the legitimacy of representation while preserving national unity.

Determining the Size of the Lok Sabha

• Another key consideration is the size of the Lok Sabha. In 1971, each Member of Parliament represented around 10–11 lakh people.
• With India’s population now exceeding 1.4 billion, expanding the number of seats is necessary to maintain effective representation.
• However, an excessively large legislature may weaken the quality of debate and decision-making.
• A cap of around 700 seats offers a practical compromise, ensuring adequate representation while preserving the efficiency and deliberative capacity of Parliament.

Conclusion

• The forthcoming delimitation exercise represents a critical moment for India’s democracy.
• While population-based representation remains essential, it must be complemented by considerations of demographic performance.
• Integrating DemPer into seat allocation provides a balanced approach that rewards population control efforts, safeguards equitable representation, and strengthens the foundations of cooperative federalism.
• Such a framework ensures that democracy reflects not only numbers but also fairness, promoting both national unity and institutional stability in an increasingly diverse and populous nation.

Context

• Elections in India are a regular democratic exercise shaped by constitutional timelines and administrative planning.
• However, recent Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal stand out due to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and heightened political tensions between State governments and the Centre.
• These elections reflect both the sophistication and the strain within India’s democratic framework.

The Scale and Logistical Brilliance of Elections

• Conducting elections across 2.19 lakh polling stations for a vast electorate of 17.4 crore voters is an extraordinary administrative effort.
• Polling teams traverse remote terrain, forests, hills, and riverine regions to ensure inclusive participation, even for a handful of voters.
• This reflects a deep commitment to universal franchise and electoral access.
• Over 25 lakh officials, including security personnel, micro-observers, and administrative staff, are deployed.
• Legal provisions ensure their allegiance to the Election Commission of India, reinforcing institutional neutrality.
• The appointment of central observers and reshuffling of officials aim to ensure free and fair elections, though such steps sometimes trigger political friction.
• A significant development is the reduction in multi-phase polling, particularly in politically sensitive regions.
• In West Bengal, polling has been reduced from eight phases in 2021 to two phases, indicating improved election management and stronger security coordination.

The Persistent ‘Four M’ Challenges

• Indian elections continue to face the four Ms: Money power, Muscle power, Misinformation, and MCC violations.
• While electronic voting machines and strong security have reduced overt coercion, other challenges have intensified.
• The role of electoral inducements, cash, gifts, and welfare promises, remains deeply embedded in political competition.
• Seizures of illicit materials worth thousands of crores highlight the scale of this issue.
• Freebies, cash transfers, and fiscally questionable promises often distort voter choice and undermine electoral integrity.
• Misinformation, including fake news and deepfakes, has become a critical concern in the digital era. Despite regulatory efforts such as pre-certification of advertisements and monitoring of campaign content, enforcement remains uneven.
• The rapid spread of misleading narratives challenges the ability of voters to make informed decisions.
• Violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), especially appeals based on caste, religion, and ethnicity, continue to threaten social harmony.
• In diverse regions like Kerala and politically polarised areas like West Bengal, such tactics can intensify divisions. Balancing free speech with necessary regulation remains a complex issue.

Technological and Institutional Innovations

• To address these challenges, the Election Commission of India has introduced measures aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and voter participation.
• Initiatives such as live webcasting, stricter monitoring of campaign expenditure, and improved media regulation aim to curb malpractice.
• Citizen-centric reforms have strengthened engagement. The SVEEP programme has improved voter awareness, while innovations like home voting for senior citizens and persons with disabilities ensure inclusive democracy.
• Additional measures such as better-designed voting interfaces and secure polling environments enhance voter convenience.
• The SIR process has improved the accuracy of electoral rolls by removing ineligible entries, contributing to higher voter turnout, which traditionally ranges between 70% and 80%.
• These steps collectively strengthen democratic participation and trust in the system.

The Ethical Responsibility of the Voter

• The integrity of elections ultimately depends on the civic responsibility of voters. Citizens must resist inducements, reject misinformation, and exercise independent judgment.
• Voting is not merely a procedural act but a moral obligation tied to the values of the Constitution of India.
• Allowing false narratives, divisive rhetoric, or material incentives to influence decisions weakens democracy.
• Strengthening civic awareness and encouraging critical thinking are essential to preserving the sanctity of elections.
• An informed electorate acts as the strongest safeguard against manipulation and corruption.

Conclusion

• Elections in India embody a remarkable blend of scale, innovation, and democratic commitment.
• Despite challenges posed by money power, misinformation, and political polarisation, continuous reforms and institutional vigilance sustain the credibility of the process.
• The role of the Election Commission of India remains central, but the ultimate success of elections lies in the hands of responsible citizens.
• Each election is not just a political contest but a reaffirmation of democratic values, electoral integrity, and the collective will of the people.

Why in the News?

• The government is considering adding battery storage under the revamped PM-KUSUM 2.0 scheme.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• PM Kusum Scheme (Objectives, Features, Components, Achievements, etc.)
• News Summary

PM KUSUM Scheme

• The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), launched in 2019, aims to promote solar energy use in agriculture and reduce dependence on diesel and grid electricity.
• It seeks to ensure energy security for farmers while supporting India’s renewable energy targets.
• Objectives and Features

• Promote solarisation of agricultural pumps.
• Provide a reliable and affordable power supply to farmers.
• Reduce subsidy burden on state electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs).
• Enable farmers to generate additional income by selling surplus power to the grid.
• The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

• Funding Pattern

• Central Government: 30% subsidy.
• State Government: 30% subsidy.
• Farmer contribution: 40% (with provision for bank loans).
• This shared funding model ensures affordability and wider participation.

Components of PM-KUSUM

• Component A
  • This component focuses on setting up decentralised, grid-connected solar power plants (up to 2 MW capacity).
  • Farmers, cooperatives, and panchayats can install these plants on barren or cultivable land and sell electricity to DISCOMs.
• Component B
  • Under this component, standalone solar-powered agricultural pumps are installed in off-grid areas.
  • It helps farmers reduce dependence on diesel pumps and ensures uninterrupted irrigation.
• Component C
  • This component involves solarisation of existing grid-connected agricultural pumps.
    • It has two sub-models: Individual Pump Solarisation (IPS) and Feeder-Level Solarisation (FLS).
  • IPS allows farmers to solarise their own pumps, while FLS solarises entire agricultural feeders, improving efficiency at scale.

Achievements and Progress

• Target: 34.8 GW solar capacity addition.
• Installed capacity: About 12,164 MW as of February 2026.
• Over 10 lakh standalone solar pumps installed under Component B.
• More than 13 lakh pumps are covered under feeder-level solarisation.
• Increased adoption of clean energy in rural areas.
• Despite progress, implementation has been slower than expected due to financial and operational challenges.

Challenges in Implementation

• Delays in financial closure and loan disbursement.
• High upfront cost for farmers.
• Coordination issues between central and state agencies.
• Grid integration challenges due to variability in solar power generation.

News Summary

• The government is planning a revamped version of the PM-KUSUM scheme, likely to be called PM-KUSUM 2.0, to address existing gaps and improve efficiency.
• Introduction of Battery Storage
  • The Centre is considering adding battery energy storage to the scheme.
  • The current scheme focuses only on solarisation and does not include storage systems.
    Battery storage is being proposed to improve energy management.
• Need for Battery Storage
  • There is a mismatch between solar energy generation and agricultural power demand.
  • Solar generation peaks during midday.
  • Agricultural demand starts in the morning and continues beyond sunset.
  • This mismatch creates operational challenges for power distribution and grid stability.
  • Battery storage can address this issue by storing excess solar energy during peak production and supplying it later when demand persists.

• Policy Discussions
  • Different ministries have varying views on the extent of storage capacity.
  • Ministry of Power proposes up to 4 hours of storage.
  • MNRE suggests a 2-hour storage capacity.
  • Discussions are ongoing, including consultations with the Ministry of Finance.

• Extension of Timeline
  • The Centre has extended timelines for financial closure and project completion under the existing scheme.
  • This decision was taken due to delays reported by stakeholders, particularly in securing loans from financial institutions.
• Transition to PM-KUSUM 2.0
  • The current scheme is set to be subsumed into the new PM-KUSUM 2.0 framework.
  • States have been advised to coordinate with banks to expedite pending projects before the transition.

Why in the News?

• Copper prices have declined due to a weakening demand outlook amid the West Asia conflict.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Copper Distribution (Global Producers, Distribution Pattern, Distribution in India, Importance of Copper, etc.)
• News Summary

Copper Distribution Across the World

• Copper is one of the most widely used industrial metals, often referred to as the “metal of electrification” due to its high conductivity.
• Its global distribution is uneven and concentrated in a few mineral-rich regions.
• Major Global Producers

• Chile is the largest producer, accounting for nearly 25% of global output.
• Peru is the second-largest producer with significant reserves in the Andes.
• The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has emerged as a key producer, especially in cobalt-copper belts.
• China has limited reserves but dominates refining and consumption.
• United States and Australia are also important producers.
• Copper deposits are generally associated with volcanic and sedimentary rocks, particularly in the “Pacific Ring of Fire.”

• Global Distribution Pattern

• South America (Chile, Peru) holds the largest share of reserves.
• Africa (DRC, Zambia) is rich in high-grade copper deposits.
• Asia has moderate reserves but high consumption.
• Developed economies dominate processing and refining capacities.

Copper Distribution in India

• India has relatively limited copper reserves compared to global leaders, making it dependent on imports.
• Major Copper-Producing Regions

• Rajasthan - Khetri copper belt is the largest producer.
• Madhya Pradesh - Malanjkhand mine is a major copper deposit.
• Jharkhand - Singhbhum copper belt contributes significantly.

• Key Characteristics

• India’s reserves are low-grade and limited in scale.
• Domestic production is insufficient to meet demand.
• India imports refined copper and concentrates to meet industrial needs.
• Copper plays a critical role in sectors such as power generation, renewable energy, infrastructure, and electronics in India.

Importance of Copper in the Economy

• Copper is essential to modern economies due to its wide applications.

• Used in electrical wiring and power grids.
• Crucial for renewable energy systems such as solar and wind.
• Important for electric vehicles and battery technologies.
• Used in construction, manufacturing, and defence sectors.

• Due to its widespread usage, copper prices are often seen as a barometer of global economic health.

News Summary

• The recent decline in copper prices reflects complex global economic and geopolitical factors.
• Decline in Copper Prices
  • Copper prices on the London Metal Exchange have fallen significantly after reaching record highs earlier in 2026.
  • Peak price: $14,527 per tonne (January 2026).
  • Declined to around $12,147 per tonne after geopolitical tensions intensified.
  • This fall reflects weakening demand expectations.

• Impact of West Asia Conflict
  • The ongoing conflict in West Asia has raised global energy prices.
  • Higher energy costs increase production expenses and reduce economic activity, thereby lowering demand for industrial metals like copper.
  • Experts highlight that copper prices move closely with global economic growth. Thus, fears of a slowdown have negatively impacted the demand outlook.
• Supply and Inventory Trends

• Global inventories have risen significantly, crossing 1 million metric tonnes for the first time since 2003.
• Increased availability of copper has further pushed prices downward.
• At the same time, disruptions in major mining regions (Indonesia, Chile, DRC) have constrained supply, creating uncertainty.

• Supply Chain Disruptions

• Transportation of sulphuric acid through the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption.
• This affects copper processing and cathode production.
• Such disruptions can lead to volatility in prices.
• Regional Demand Factors
  • Demand in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has weakened due to the conflict.
  • Reduced industrial activity in these regions has lowered demand for copper, contributing to the price decline.

• Previous Price Surge
  • Before the recent fall, copper prices had surged sharply in 2025.
  • Prices increased by over 35%, the highest rise since 2009.
  • Factors included supply disruptions, trade tariffs, and a weaker US dollar.
  • Mining accidents in major countries and stockpiling by US buyers also tightened supply.

Why in news?

The disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz due to the West Asia conflict has significantly impacted India’s energy supplies, especially LPG and LNG.

India imports about 60% of its LPG needs, and since 90% of these imports pass through the Strait, around 54% of LPG supply is affected. This has forced the government to cut supplies to commercial and industrial users to prioritise households.

Natural gas has also been impacted, though to a lesser extent. India imports about half of its gas as LNG, with 55–60% coming via the Strait, leading to a disruption of roughly 30% of supply.

To manage this, supplies to industries have been reduced while ensuring availability for households (PNG) and transport (CNG). Overall, the LPG situation is more severe, prompting the government to encourage a shift to PNG where possible.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Chemistry and Composition of LPG and LNG
• Delivery and Distribution Systems
• Crisis Impact and Supply Prioritisation

Chemistry and Composition of LPG and LNG

• Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is mainly a mixture of propane and butane, produced as a byproduct of crude oil refining and natural gas processing. It may also contain small amounts of other hydrocarbons.
• In contrast, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is primarily methane, derived from natural gas.
• Liquefaction Process and Storage
  • LPG becomes liquid under moderate pressure or low temperatures, making it relatively easy to store and transport.
  • LNG, however, requires extreme cooling below -160°C and must be stored in specialised cryogenic tanks, making its handling more complex and energy-intensive.
• Volume and Transportation Advantage
  • Both fuels are liquefied to reduce volume for transport.
  • LPG reduces to about 1/260th of its gaseous volume, while LNG shrinks further to about 1/600th, enabling efficient long-distance transportation, especially where pipelines are not feasible.
• Usage and Applications
  • LPG is widely used for cooking, heating, and some industrial applications, and also as a vehicle fuel in certain regions.
  • LNG itself has limited direct use but is mainly transported and then converted back into natural gas, which is used for cooking, transport (CNG), and industries such as fertilisers, power generation, refineries, and petrochemicals.

Delivery and Distribution Systems

• LNG is transported via specialised cryogenic ships to regasification terminals, where it is converted back into natural gas and supplied through pipelines as PNG (piped natural gas) or CNG for vehicles.
• In contrast, LPG is bottled in cylinders and delivered mainly by road, making it accessible even in remote areas without pipeline infrastructure.
• Storage and Accessibility
  • LPG is easier to store, requiring only pressurised cylinders, which makes it highly portable and suitable for rural and remote regions.
  • PNG, however, depends entirely on pipeline connectivity and cannot be easily stored unless converted into LNG again.
  • As a result, LPG is preferred in areas without pipelines, while PNG is promoted in urban regions.
• Convenience for Consumers
  • PNG offers greater convenience once infrastructure is in place, providing continuous, metered supply without the need for refills or bookings.
  • LPG, on the other hand, requires periodic cylinder replacement and manual handling.
• Safety Considerations
  • PNG is considered safer because natural gas is lighter than air, allowing it to disperse quickly in case of leaks.
  • LPG is heavier than air, tends to accumulate, and poses a higher risk of fire or explosion during leakage.
  • While LPG offers portability and wider reach, PNG provides greater convenience, safety, and efficiency in areas with established pipeline infrastructure.

Crisis Impact and Supply Prioritisation

• Amid disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the government has acknowledged significant stress on LPG supplies, though household consumption remains protected.
• While 100% supply is ensured for PNG households and CNG transport, supplies to industrial and commercial users have been curtailed to about 80%.
• The disruption is more severe for LPG (about 54% affected) compared to natural gas (around 30% affected).
• India has a much larger LPG user base (33.3 crore households) compared to only 5 crore PNG connections.
• Push for PNG Expansion
  • To ease pressure on LPG, the government is encouraging consumers to switch to PNG where available.
  • City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies are offering incentives like free gas and waived connection charges.
  • The Centre has also urged states to fast-track PNG network expansion and offered additional LPG allocations as incentives.
• Boosting Domestic LPG Production
  • The government has directed refiners to maximise LPG production by diverting inputs like propane and butane from petrochemicals.
  • This has increased domestic LPG output by 40%, raising its share in meeting demand from 40% to about 55%.
• Demand Management Measures
  • To manage limited supplies, the government has increased the gap between LPG cylinder bookings to 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas.
  • It has also activated alternative fuels like kerosene, fuel oil, biomass, and coal for industrial and commercial users to offset LPG shortages.

Why in news?

Kannan Gopinathan, a former IAS officer who resigned in 2019 citing restrictions on freedom of expression in Kashmir, has alleged that the government has delayed accepting his resignation for over six years. This delay has prevented him from contesting elections.

His resignation is still pending with the Ministry of Home Affairs, as the final recommendation has not yet been sent to the DoPT. Officials note that such prolonged delays are unprecedented, raising questions about the rules governing IAS resignations, timelines, and grounds for rejection.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Rules on IAS Officers and Political Activity
• Resignation Process for IAS Officers
• What Happens After an IAS Officer Submits Resignation?
• Can the Government Delay IAS Resignations?
• IAS Resignations Since 2010: Key Trends
• Can IAS Officers Withdraw Their Resignation?

Rules on IAS Officers and Political Activity

• Under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, serving IAS officers are strictly prohibited from associating with political parties or participating in political activities.
• They are required to maintain political neutrality and uphold constitutional values at all times.
• 2014 Amendment and Political Neutrality
  • The Conduct Rules were amended in November 2014, adding new clauses to reinforce the conduct expected of senior civil servants.
  • Most notably, Rule 3(1) mandates that every government employee must, at all times, maintain political neutrality and remain committed to upholding the supremacy of the Constitution and democratic values.
  • This rule essentially codifies the foundational expectation that civil servants — regardless of which government is in power — serve the Constitution and the public, not any political party or ideology.
• Gopinathan’s Case and Legal Grey Area
  • Kannan Gopinathan resigned from the IAS in 2019 and later joined a political party in 2024.
  • However, since his resignation has not yet been formally accepted, his status remains that of a serving officer, placing him in violation of conduct rules if he engages in politics.
  • Gopinathan has accused the government of deliberately delaying his resignation, calling it “harassment” and arguing that it is preventing him from participating in the democratic process.

Resignation Process for IAS Officers

• The resignation of officers from the All India Services—IAS, IPS, and Indian Forest Service—is governed by Rules 5(1) and 5(1)(A) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958.
• Procedure Based on Posting
  • An officer serving in a state cadre must submit their resignation to the Chief Secretary of the state.
  • If the officer is on central deputation, the resignation is submitted to the concerned ministry or department secretary, which then forwards it to the respective state cadre with its recommendations.
  • In the case of AGMUT cadre officers, the process is routed through the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Key Conditions and Implications
  • As per Rule 5, officers who resign are not entitled to retirement benefits.
  • Additionally, Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) guidelines require that the resignation must be clear and unconditional for it to be considered valid.

What Happens After an IAS Officer Submits Resignation?

• After resignation is submitted, the state verifies if the officer has any pending dues, vigilance cases, or inquiries—resignations are usually rejected if such issues exist.
• The state then forwards its recommendation and details to the Union government.
• The final decision is taken by the competent authority:
  • for IAS officers, the DoPT Minister (Prime Minister);
  • for IPS, the Home Minister; and
  • for Indian Forest Service officers, the Environment Minister.

Can the Government Delay IAS Resignations?

• There is no fixed time limit for accepting an IAS officer’s resignation.
• However, a DoPT circular states that it is generally not in the government’s interest to retain an unwilling officer, so resignations should normally be accepted.
• Conditions Where Resignation May Be Delayed or Rejected?
  • Resignations can be withheld in certain situations.
  • If an officer is under suspension or facing disciplinary proceedings, the government must assess whether accepting the resignation serves public interest.
  • In such cases, the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) may also be consulted.
• Other Grounds for Rejection
  • The government also examines whether the officer has:
    • Pending dues or obligations, or
    • Executed service bonds (for training, scholarships, or fellowships).
  • For example, Arvind Kejriwal faced penalties after resigning from the IRS due to a bond violation linked to a government-funded fellowship.
  • If the officer holds an important position, the government may delay acceptance until suitable replacement arrangements are made, ensuring administrative continuity.

IAS Resignations Since 2010: Key Trends

• RTI data from the DoPT shows that 31 IAS officers have resigned since 2010, the year the CSAT was introduced in the UPSC exam.
• Of these, 11 resigned between 2010–2014 (UPA period) and 20 between 2015 and May 2025 (NDA period).
• Since the introduction of CSAT, many IAS entrants have been technocrats, and a growing number have chosen to resign for better opportunities in the private sector or to enter politics, reflecting evolving career preferences among civil servants.

Can IAS Officers Withdraw Their Resignation?

• Yes, IAS officers can withdraw their resignation, but only under specific conditions laid down in the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules.
• Under Rule 5(1A)(i), the Union government may allow withdrawal of resignation in public interest.
• However, as per a 2011 amendment, the gap between resignation and rejoining service cannot exceed 90 days.
• Also, withdrawal is not permitted if the officer resigned to pursue political activities.
• If an officer withdraws their resignation before it is formally accepted, it is automatically treated as withdrawn. This rule applies in cases where resignation processing is delayed.
  • Shah Faesal, who resigned in 2019, was able to return to service in 2022 because his resignation had not been accepted, allowing automatic withdrawal.
• The timing of acceptance is crucial—before acceptance, withdrawal is easy; after acceptance, it is restricted and conditional, especially if linked to political activity.

Context

• India’s manufacturing ecosystem is deeply integrated with global supply chains, enabling efficiency but also creating vulnerability to external shocks.
• Recent geopolitical tensions have exposed risks arising from import dependence in critical sectors such as energy, fertilizers, and electronics.
• While global interdependence drives growth, it also amplifies disruptions, making supply chain resilience a strategic priority.
• Strengthening domestic capacity while maintaining global integration is essential for long-term stability.

Energy Security as the Foundation of Economic Stability

• Energy underpins all sectors of the economy, yet India imports nearly 85% of its crude oil and over 50% of its gas.
• This heavy reliance exposes the country to geopolitical shocks, price volatility, and rising inflation. Increases in oil prices escalate the import bill, raise logistics costs, and slow GDP growth, highlighting the urgency of energy security.
• India’s transition toward renewable energy is crucial for reducing dependence on fossil fuels, with an ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030.
• However, ensuring reliability requires investment in energy storage to manage intermittency. The Green Hydrogen Mission offers a pathway to decarbonize industries reliant on imported fuels.
• At the same time, expanding domestic exploration of oil and gas remains necessary.
• Strengthening strategic reserves and pursuing import diversification can help mitigate short-term disruptions while supporting long-term resilience.

Food and Agricultural Security: Addressing Hidden Vulnerabilities

• Despite being a net exporter of several agricultural commodities, India depends heavily on imports of edible oils, pulses, and fertilizers.
• This creates risks for food security, rural livelihoods, and price stability.
• Boosting domestic production requires assured procurement, price support, and crop diversification tailored to regional conditions.
• Expanding oilseed production is particularly critical, as domestic supply meets less than half of demand.
• Establishing strategic reserves for essential commodities can help manage supply shocks.
• In the fertilizer sector, reforms should focus on supplier diversification, increased domestic production of key nutrients, and promotion of bio-fertilizers to reduce dependence on imports.

Manufacturing Vulnerabilities and Structural Imbalances

• India’s import profile reveals structural weaknesses in manufacturing. While strong in downstream manufacturing, the country relies heavily on imported raw materials, intermediates, and capital goods.
• These inputs are essential and often non-substitutable, making disruptions highly consequential.
• Critical dependencies include APIs in pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and components in electronics, and industrial intermediates.
• Concentration of key resources such as rare earth minerals, lithium, and cobalt further heightens risk, particularly for emerging sectors like electric mobility.
• This imbalance limits industrial competitiveness and exposes production systems to external shocks.
• When supply chains are disrupted, entire industries can stall, underscoring the need for structural correction.

The Imperative of Diversification and Domestic Capacity Building

• Reducing vulnerability requires strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding global partnerships.
• Policy efforts must move beyond final assembly to develop complete industrial ecosystems, including API manufacturing, semiconductor production, and advanced machinery.
• At the same time, supply diversification is essential. Building long-term partnerships with regions such as Africa and Latin America can reduce concentration risks and improve stability.
• Technological innovation can further reduce dependence by promoting process re-engineering, input efficiency, and adoption of alternative materials.
• Encouraging industries to embrace these changes will gradually lower import intensity and enhance resilience.

The Path Forward: Towards an Integrated Approach to Resilience

• Building resilient supply chains requires a coordinated approach involving government, industry, and global partners.
• Investments in infrastructure, innovation, and policy alignment must work together to address systemic vulnerabilities.
• The objective is not to retreat from globalization but to engage more strategically.
• A balanced approach that combines self-reliance with global integration can strengthen economic stability while maintaining competitiveness.

Conclusion

• India’s exposure to global supply disruptions highlights the risks of excessive import dependence.
• Strengthening energy security, improving agricultural resilience, addressing manufacturing gaps, and promoting diversification are essential steps toward resilience.
• By adopting a forward-looking and integrated strategy, India can transform structural vulnerabilities into long-term strengths and build a more secure and sustainable economic future.

Context

• Public employment programmes are central to rural welfare in India, with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act as a landmark initiative.
• The proposed Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act has emerged as a new framework.
• The effectiveness of both programmes hinges on a critical factor: wage determination. Wage policy shapes participation, programme sustainability, and legal validity.

The Centrality of Wage Rates

• Wage rates form the backbone of employment guarantee schemes. A higher wage rate generates enthusiasm, participation, and worker mobilisation, as seen in the early phase of MGNREGA.
• When wages matched or exceeded minimum wages, workers were strongly incentivised to join.
• On the other hand, wage suppression, low incentives, and reduced participation can weaken such schemes.
• Since wages influence programme costs, governments may attempt to restrain them, affecting overall effectiveness.

Shift in Wage Determination: From States to Centre

• Initially, wages under MGNREGA were linked to state-level minimum wages through Section 6(2).
• This ensured alignment with local labour markets and strengthened rural earnings, however, in 2009, the central government invoked Section 6(1), gaining control over wage determination.
• Although wages initially increased, the shift enabled centralisation, wage control, and policy uniformity.
• Over time, wages were adjusted only for inflation indexation using the Consumer Price Index, resulting in a real-wage freeze.
• This weakened the programme’s ability to influence labour markets and maintain wage standards.

Consequences of the Real-Wage Freeze

• The stagnation of wages has produced significant challenges. First, MGNREGA wages now lag behind statutory minimum wages, creating issues of legal compliance and undermining labour protections.
• This weakens the programme’s role in sustaining wage floors.
• Second, wages have also fallen behind market wages, reducing the scheme’s attractiveness.
• The gap is further widened by delayed payments, payment uncertainty, and administrative inefficiency.
• In contrast, market wages are typically paid promptly.
• Technological issues such as failures in payment systems contribute to non-payment, intensifying the discouragement effect.
• As a result, worker interest declines, reducing participation and engagement.

Declining Participation and Governance Challenges

• Reduced participation reflects deeper structural issues. Declining worker interest leads to weakened accountability, reduced vigilance, and increased corruption.
• The absence of active worker involvement allows leakages and malpractice to grow.
• This creates a vicious cycle: lower participation enables corruption, while corruption further discourages workers.
• Consequently, the gap between official data and actual employment levels widens, raising concerns about transparency and data reliability.

VB-G RAM G Act: Continuity Without Reform

• The VB-G RAM G Act retains many of the structural weaknesses of MGNREGA.
• It continues centralised wage determination despite adopting a cost-sharing model between the Centre and States.
• This weakens the justification for central control.
• The removal of provisions linking wages to minimum wages raises concerns about legal ambiguity.
• Without mechanisms to ensure timely payments, institutional accountability, or corruption control, the new framework risks perpetuating existing challenges.

The Way Forward

• Reform must prioritise aligning wages with or above minimum wages to ensure legal validity, improve worker incentives, and enhance participation.
• This would also strengthen rural incomes and restore confidence in employment programmes.
• Equally important are measures to ensure timely payments, reduce administrative delays, and improve transparency mechanisms.
• Strengthening monitoring systems and addressing technological failures can help curb corruption and rebuild trust.

Conclusion

• Employment guarantee programmes depend fundamentally on effective wage policy.
• Persistent wage stagnation, combined with institutional inefficiencies, has eroded their impact.
• Without addressing the disconnect between wages and labour standards, such programmes risk losing relevance.
• Ensuring fair wages, timely payments, and accountability is essential for making employment guarantees meaningful instruments of rural development.

Why in news?

India has approved its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), committing to 60% of installed power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2035, a 47% reduction in emissions intensity from 2005 levels, and expanding its carbon sink to 3.5–4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.

These targets will be submitted to the UNFCCC and come as India’s emissions growth slowed to a two-decade low in 2025.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• India’s Previous vs Updated Commitments
• Have NDCs Driven the Clean Energy Transition?
• India’s Emissions Trend: Signs of a Slowdown
• Challenges in India’s Climate Strategy

India’s Previous vs Updated Commitments

• Under the Paris Agreement, countries are required to submit NDCs, but the targets themselves are voluntary commitments outlining how each nation plans to reduce emissions and transition away from fossil fuels.
• Earlier NDC (2022) - India committed to:
  • 50% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030;
  • 45% reduction in emissions intensity;
  • Carbon sink of 2.5–3 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent.
• Updated NDC (2026) - The new targets increase ambition:
  • 60% non-fossil capacity by 2035
  • 47% reduction in emissions intensity
  • Higher carbon sink target
• India has already achieved about 52% non-fossil capacity by early 2026, surpassing earlier targets ahead of schedule.
• With this update, India also closes a gap, joining other G20 nations in announcing its 2035 climate commitments.

Have NDCs Driven the Clean Energy Transition?

• The impact of NDCs on accelerating clean energy remains mixed and limited.
• While they provide a framework for climate action, their effectiveness in driving real change is debated.
• Global Performance: Falling Short of Targets
  • Reports like the UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2025 show countries have repeatedly missed targets since 2015.
  • Current NDCs close less than 14% of the emissions gap needed to limit warming to 1.5°C.
  • Although projected warming has slightly decreased, much of this is due to methodological changes rather than stronger policy action.
  • Setbacks like the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement have further weakened progress.
• Weaknesses in NDC Commitments
  • Most countries include some clean energy targets, but none present a fully aligned plan with global agreements like the COP28 “UAE Consensus”.
  • Gaps in Fossil Fuel Action
    • No country has clear targets to phase down oil and gas production
    • Most ignore fossil fuel subsidy reforms
    • Developing countries rely heavily on inadequate international finance
• Clean Energy Growth Despite NDC Limitations
  • Renewable energy is expanding rapidly, with record solar and wind installations and renewables overtaking coal globally.
  • However, this growth is driven mainly by falling costs and industrial competition, not NDC mandates.
  • NDCs have been more effective at tracking and reporting progress rather than driving the deep structural changes needed to move away from fossil fuels, highlighting a gap between commitments and real-world impact.

India’s Emissions Trend: Signs of a Slowdown

• A 2025 analysis by CREA shows India’s CO₂ emissions grew by just 0.7%, the slowest pace in over two decades (excluding Covid), marking a sharp decline from 4–11% growth in previous years.
• Decline in Coal-Based Emissions - Emissions from the power sector fell 3.8%, with coal generation declining for the first time since 1973 (outside the Covid period).
• Rapid Expansion of Clean Energy - India added significant clean capacity in 2025 (47 GW solar; 6.3 GW wind; 4 GW hydro; 0.6 GW nuclear). This was enough to meet demand growth of up to 5%, signalling a structural shift.
• Mixed Sectoral Performance - While the power sector improved, heavy industries lagged behind (Steel emissions rose by 8%; Cement emissions increased by 10%).
• Possible Inflection Point Ahead
  • The analysis suggests India’s power sector may reach a tipping point by 2026, where clean energy additions match annual demand growth.
  • Long-term projections indicate 70% non-fossil capacity by 2035-36.
  • Experts warn that 2025 conditions—mild weather and weak industrial activity—may have temporarily reduced emissions.
  • Sustained trends over the coming years will be needed to confirm a lasting transition.

Challenges in India’s Climate Strategy

• India’s climate targets rely on emissions intensity (emissions per unit of GDP), allowing total emissions to rise as long as economic growth outpaces them.
• This approach is justified on equity grounds, given India’s low per-capita emissions.
• Continued Fossil Fuel Expansion: Despite clean energy goals, India plans - 100 GW of new coal capacity; $1 trillion in petrochemical investments by 2040; 50% increase in coal-based steel capacity by 2031. These moves could offset gains from renewable energy.
• Stranded Renewable Capacity - Over 37 GW of renewable energy capacity remains underutilised due to inadequate grid infrastructure, limiting the effectiveness of clean energy expansion.
• Forest Cover Gaps - India’s carbon sink targets depend on forest expansion, but current forest and tree cover is about 24%, below the 33% goal. Some of this includes trees outside forests, whose reliability is debated.

Conclusion

• India’s climate progress will depend on resolving contradictions between growth and sustainability, improving grid readiness, and strengthening genuine carbon sinks alongside renewable expansion.

Why in news?

• The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, introduced in the Rajya Sabha, proposes reserving senior leadership positions in CAPFs largely for IPS officers on deputation.
• It mandates:
  • 50% of Inspector General (IG) posts
  • At least 67% of Additional Director General (ADG) posts
  • 100% of Special DG and DG posts
    • to be filled by IPS officers.
  • The proposal has drawn criticism from the Opposition and retired CAPF officials, who argue it may limit career progression opportunities for cadre officers within CAPFs.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Background: Supreme Court Judgment and Government’s Response
• About CAPFs
• Why is there opposition to the Bill?
• Other Concerns

Background: Supreme Court Judgment and Government’s Response

• The Bill was introduced following a Supreme Court judgment (May 2025) which directed that deputation of IPS officers to senior posts in CAPFs should be gradually reduced within two years.
• The Court also recognised CAPF Group A officers as Organised Group A Services (OGAS), similar to IAS, IPS, and IFS.
• Government’s Response and Legal Developments
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) filed a review petition against the judgment, but it was dismissed in October 2025.
  • Despite this, the MHA continued appointing IPS officers to key positions in CAPFs, leading to allegations of non-compliance.
  • Retired CAPF officers filed a contempt petition against the Union Home Secretary for not implementing the Court’s order.
  • In response, the government proposed a legal solution, leading to Cabinet approval of the CAPF (General Administration) Bill, 2026 to address the issue through legislation.

About CAPFs

• The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) include seven forces:
  • Assam Rifles (guards Indo-Myanmar and counter insurgency operations in NE)
  • BSF (guards Pakistan and Bangladesh borders),
  • CISF (protects airports and critical infrastructure),
  • CRPF (handles internal security and law and order),
  • SSB (guards Nepal and Bhutan borders), and
  • ITBP (secures the China border).
  • National Security Guard (an elite counter-terrorism unit)
• Currently, IPS officers occupy key leadership roles in CAPFs, with 20% of Deputy Inspector General posts and 50% of Inspector General posts reserved for them through executive orders.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) controls both CAPFs and IPS cadres.
• Personnel and Recruitment
  • CAPFs have around 13,000 Group A officers and nearly 10 lakh personnel in total.
  • Recruitment is conducted through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), ensuring a structured entry into these forces.
• Current IPS Deployment
  • As of March 9, 2026, there are 213 sanctioned IPS posts in CAPFs, with 35 vacancies.
  • Across India, there are about 4,594 IPS officers, with 40% of senior posts earmarked for Central deputation and 60% for state roles.

Why is there opposition to the Bill?

• Retired CAPF officials oppose the Bill, arguing it undermines the Supreme Court’s ruling.
• They highlight career stagnation, noting that CAPF officers face slow promotions compared to IPS officers, who advance much faster.
• They also object to reserving 100% of Special Director General posts for IPS officers, limiting career growth for CAPF personnel.
• Government’s Justification
  • The government maintains that CAPFs handle critical national security functions requiring coordination with states.
  • It argues that IPS officers are essential for effective functioning and for maintaining strong Centre–State relations.
• Concerns Raised by Opposition Leaders
  • Opposition leaders have criticised the Bill as an overreach.
  • They said it undermines judicial authority and pointed to low morale in CAPFs due to poor promotions.
  • They argued Parliament cannot override court rulings without proper legal basis.

Other Concerns

• Lack of Domain Expertise - Critics argue that IPS officers deputed at senior levels often lack ground-level experience in CAPFs, affecting decision-making and operational effectiveness.
• Need for Institutional Continuity - CAPFs handle complex roles like border security, counter-insurgency, and disaster response, which require long-term experience and continuity of leadership—something cadre officers are better positioned to provide.
• Institutional Autonomy vs Bureaucratic Control - The Bill is seen as reinforcing bureaucratic control rather than promoting professional autonomy. Experts argue that modern security forces require specialised leadership, not external administrative dominance.
• Equality and Fair Opportunity - Permanent exclusion of CAPF officers from top leadership raises concerns under Articles 14 and 16 (equality and equal opportunity).
• National Security vs Service Interests - Critics argue the Bill prioritises IPS career progression over strengthening CAPFs. The focus on coordination and administrative control may not stand legal scrutiny, as courts have already examined these arguments.

Why in news?

• The Supreme Court ruled recently in Chinthada Anand vs State of Andhra Pradesh that a pastor from the Madiga community cannot claim SC status as he had converted to Christianity.
• The Court upheld the Andhra Pradesh High Court's decision in an alleged atrocity matter.
• The ruling laid down strict conditions for reconversion claims and clarified the religion-based bar on SC status.

What's in Today's Article?

• Legal basis: Can a person of Christian faith be SC?
• The Centre's position and pending petition
• Conditions for reconversion claims
• What about Scheduled Tribes?
• Conclusion

Can a Person of Christian Faith be SC?

• The Constitutional Bar
  • The Constitution (SC) Order, 1950 bars anyone not professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism from SC membership, a bar the Court declared absolute with no exceptions.
• Meaning of Profess and Effect of Conversion
  • Profess means to publicly declare or practice a religion. Since Anand was a practising Christian, he fell outside the Order's ambit.
  • Conversion causes immediate and complete loss of SC status, terminating all benefits, reservations, and protections, including under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
• On Caste Certificates and Theological Reasoning
  • A caste certificate cannot override the fact of practising Christianity.
  • The Court noted that Christianity does not recognise caste by its very theological foundation, making SC status and Christian faith constitutionally incompatible.

Is this question new? What is the Centre's position?

• Historical Background
  • A petition on SC status for Dalit converts has been pending since 2004. Petitioners argue caste followed converts into Christianity and Islam, and government-commissioned reports support extending SC status to Dalit Muslims and Christians.
  • The Order was previously amended to include Sikhism (1950s) and Buddhism (1990), setting a precedent for expansion.
• Centre's Stand
  • The government has consistently argued for exclusion of Christians and Muslims citing the foreign origin of these faiths, as opposed to Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.
• K. G. Balakrishnan Commission
  • In October 2022, a Commission of Inquiry under former CJI K.G. Balakrishnan was constituted to examine the issue, with its report due April this year, which the Supreme Court Bench is awaiting before proceeding.

What are the Conditions for Reconversion Claims?

• Three Cumulative Conditions
  • Original SC Membership: Must prove prior belonging to a Scheduled Caste before conversion.
  • Bona Fide Reconversion: Requires unimpeachable evidence of genuine return to the original faith, including complete renunciation of the converted religion and actual adoption of the original caste's customs, rituals, and practices.
  • Community Acceptance: Must demonstrate re-assimilation and acceptance by the original caste community; self-declaration alone is insufficient.
• Burden of Proof
  • The entire burden lies on the claimant, to be established through unimpeachable evidence, a high legal threshold.

What about Scheduled Tribes?

• No Religion-Based Bar for STs
  • Unlike SCs, the Constitution (ST) Order, 1950 prescribes no religion-based exclusion.
  • ST status depends on retention of essential tribal attributes, customs, social organisation, community life, and community recognition.
• Effect of Conversion & Ground Reality
  • Complete severance from tribal life weakens ST claims; retained tribal identity cannot be automatically rejected, each case is fact-specific.
  • This is significant given that entire ST communities in states like Nagaland have converted to Christianity, while states like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand witness Adivasi movements seeking to disentitle converted STs from statutory benefits.

Conclusion

• The ruling reaffirms the strict religion-based framework of the Constitution (SC) Order, 1950, leaving no room for exceptions.
• While it brings clarity on reconversion thresholds, it deepens the urgency around whether Dalit Christians and Muslims deserve constitutional protection against caste discrimination.
• The K. G. Balakrishnan Commission's report will be a critical input for the pending Supreme Court proceedings.
• The outcome carries far-reaching implications, for millions of Dalits converts and for how India reconciles its constitutional promise of equality with the lived reality that caste does not disappear with conversion.

Why in news?

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed the introduction of electronic cheques (e-cheques) as part of its effort to modernise India's payment ecosystem.
• The proposal was outlined in the RBI's Payments Vision 2028 report, which also covers cross-border payments, payment switching, and systemic stability.
• The initiative aims to merge the trusted features of traditional paper cheques with the efficiency and security of digital payment systems.

What's in Today's Article?

• What are e-cheques and how do they work?
• Why is RBI proposing e-cheques?
• Cross-border payment reforms
• Payments Switching Service (PaSS)
• Regulatory expansion for systemic stability
• Conclusion

What are E-Cheques and How Do They Work?

• Definition
  • An e-cheque is a digital version of a paper cheque, created, signed, and sent online instead of on paper.
• Process
  • The payer fills in the payment details and signs it using a secure digital method.
  • It is then sent to the payee or bank, which verifies and processes it like a normal cheque.
• Advantages over Paper Cheques
  • Faster processing and settlement
  • More secure: reduced risk of physical fraud or tampering
  • Paperless: environmentally friendly and cost-efficient
  • Easy to track: full digital audit trail

Why is RBI Proposing E-Cheques?

• Unique Value of Cheques
  • The RBI acknowledges that cheques offer unique benefits over other payment methods: particularly for high-value, deferred, and business transactions where a written instrument is preferred.
• Limitations of the Current System
  • The existing framework is built on CTS-2010 standards (Cheque Truncation System introduced in 2010).
  • Banks have independently added their own security features over time, leading to inconsistencies and variations across the system.
• What the Review Will Do?
  • A comprehensive review of the design and security features of cheques will be undertaken to:
    • Enhance uniformity across all cheque instruments
    • Strengthen fraud prevention mechanisms
    • Ensure alignment with emerging processes and technologies
  • Best practices identified through the review will be made applicable across all cheque instruments.

Cross-Border Payment Reforms

• Framework Review
  • A review of the cross-border payments framework will be conducted to enhance efficiency.
  • This will be complemented by publishing dedicated reports on specific aspects of cross-border payments.
• Regulatory Streamlining
  • The regulatory process for cross-border payment authorisation under PSS Act, 2007 (Payment and Settlement Systems Act) and FEMA, 1999 (Foreign Exchange Management Act) will be streamlined to promote ease of doing business and greater convenience for users.
• Small Payment System Providers
  • The case for recognising Small Payment System Providers under a perpetual regulatory sandbox structure will be examined, offering a structured, low-risk environment for innovation.

Payments Switching Service (PaSS)

• The RBI will examine providing customers with the flexibility to switch seamlessly among payment service providers through a dedicated Payments Switching Service (PaSS).
• This is aimed at:
  • Enhancing customer convenience and choice
  • Promoting healthy competition among payment service providers
  • Reducing lock-in effects that currently limit consumer mobility across platforms

Regulatory Expansion for Systemic Stability

• Entities deemed to play a critical role in facilitating digital payments will be brought within the regulatory fold.
• This move is aimed at:
  • Promoting systemic stability in India's growing digital payments landscape
  • Ensuring integrity and accountability among key payment intermediaries
  • Reducing risks arising from unregulated but systemically important players operating outside the oversight framework

Conclusion

• The RBI's Payments Vision 2028 reflects a forward-looking approach to building a robust, inclusive, and secure payment ecosystem for India.
• The introduction of e-cheques bridges the gap between traditional instruments and digital innovation, while reforms in cross-border payments, switching services, and regulatory oversight signal a comprehensive overhaul.
• As digital transactions continue to grow, these measures will be critical in ensuring that India's payment infrastructure remains efficient, interoperable, fraud-resistant, and globally competitive.

Context

• The recent observation by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, that the Supreme Court’s Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes (2023) is technical and too Harvard-oriented has its relevance and accessibility.
• While the emphasis on improving judicial training is undeniably important, such criticism risks overlooking the handbook’s actual purpose and contribution.
• A closer reading shows that the handbook is neither excessively academic nor detached from Indian realities; instead, it is a practical, precedent-based tool aimed at reforming judicial reasoning and language.

Purpose and Objectives of the Handbook

• Identifying Stereotypical Language
  • It seeks to highlight language in judicial decisions that perpetuates gender stereotypes and recommends more appropriate alternatives.
• Challenging Faulty Reasoning
  • The handbook examines common reasoning patterns rooted in stereotypes and explains why they are legally and constitutionally flawed.
• Compiling Binding Precedents
  • It brings together Supreme Court judgments that have already rejected such stereotypes, making them accessible in a structured format.
  • These objectives demonstrate that the handbook is not theoretical but deeply practical, designed to influence how judges write and reason in real cases.

The Role of Language in Judicial Reasoning

• Problematic Terminology in Judgments
  • For instance, in D. Velusamy vs D. Patchaiammal (2010), the term ‘keep’ was used to describe a woman in a live-in relationship.
  • This expression reflects patriarchal assumptions and diminishes women’s agency.
  • Similarly, the use of the term ravished in rape cases carries outdated and moralistic undertones, shifting focus away from consent and bodily autonomy.
• Corrective Approach of the Handbook
  • The handbook identifies such expressions and offers alternatives grounded in constitutional values like dignity and equality.
  • In doing so, it promotes more sensitive and accurate judicial communication.

Grounding in Indian Legal Context

• Reliance on Supreme Court Precedents
  • It compiles binding decisions of the Supreme Court that reject gender stereotypes.
  • For example, it reiterates that the absence of physical injuries in sexual assault cases should not be used to discredit survivors.
• Recognition of Survivor Realities
  • The handbook also acknowledges that there is no correct way for a survivor to behave, encouraging courts to adopt a contextual and empathetic approach.
  • This reliance on existing Indian case law underscores its practical relevance and accessibility for legal professionals.

Understanding the Intended Audience

• Designed for Legal Professionals
  • The handbook is intended for judges and lawyers, individuals trained to interpret legal texts, evaluate evidence, and write judgments.
  • Technical language is therefore appropriate and necessary.
• Not Meant for Laypersons
  • It is not designed as a public-facing document for survivors or the general population. Simplifying it excessively could undermine its effectiveness as a professional resource.

Scope for Improvement

• Need for Continuous Evolution
  • Feedback from the judiciary, legal practitioners, and civil society can help improve its clarity and application.
• Constructive Criticism over Dismissal
  • Rather than dismissing it as overly technical, stakeholders should engage with it critically to enhance its impact.

Conclusion

• The Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes represents an important institutional effort by the judiciary to address the subtle ways in which bias can influence legal reasoning.
• By focusing on language, precedent, and constitutional values, it promotes a more equitable and accountable judicial process.
• Labelling it as technical or Harvard-oriented risks undermining its significance and the progress it embodies.
• A more constructive approach would be to recognise its strengths while working towards its continuous improvement.

Context

• For years, India has been celebrated as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, with strong GDP figures reinforcing a narrative of sustained progress.
• However, economic realities for ordinary citizens often diverge sharply from these optimistic headlines.
• Daily life is shaped not by growth rates but by wages, employment opportunities, inflation, and business stability.
• This contrast raises a fundamental question: do official economic statistics accurately reflect the lived experiences of India’s population?

Questioning GDP Estimates and Why Small Errors Matter

• Questioning GDP Estimates
  • A recent study by economists like Arvind Subramanian challenges the reliability of India’s GDP data.
  • Their research suggests that economic growth since 2011 may have been overstated by approximately 1.5 to 2 percentage points annually.
• Why Small Errors Matter?
  • While this discrepancy may appear minor, its cumulative impact is substantial. Over time, even slight overestimations can significantly distort:
    • Policy decisions
    • Investment strategies
    • Public perception of government performance
  • Thus, what seems like a technical issue becomes a matter of national importance.

Structural Weakness in Economic Measurement

• Overreliance on the Formal Sector
  • India’s GDP estimation increasingly depends on data from the formal sector, such as corporate filings and organised industry reports.
  • However, a large proportion of India’s workforce operates in the informal sector, small businesses, daily wage labour, and cash-based activities.
• The Visibility Problem
  • This creates a structural imbalance:
    • The formal sector is easier to measure and therefore
    • The informal sector, though larger, remains underrepresented.
  • As a result, economic data may reflect what is visible rather than what is truly happening across the economy.

Disconnect Between Growth and Lived Experience

• Despite high reported growth rates, several key indicators suggest a weaker economic reality:
  • Sluggish private investment
  • Stagnant or slow real wage growth
  • Limited job creation in manufacturing
  • Rising unemployment concerns, especially among youth
• This disconnect has made the growth narrative increasingly difficult for citizens to relate.

Impact of Economic Shocks

• Major Disruptions to the Informal Economy
  • A series of economic shocks further exposed the gap between data and reality:
    • Demonetisation disrupted cash-dependent sectors.
    • Goods and Services Tax increased compliance burdens on small firms.
    • COVID-19 disproportionately affected informal workers.
• Statistical Blind Spots
  • Because GDP calculations rely heavily on formal-sector indicators, the damage to informal sectors may not be fully captured, masking the true extent of economic distress.

The Deeper Contradiction in India’s Growth Model

• Rising Inequality
  • Economic growth has increasingly benefited:
    • Large corporations
    • Financial elites
  • At the same time, public welfare systems have weakened in effectiveness.
• The Illusion of Formalisation
  • Formalisation is often presented as progress, but it can also conceal:
    • The closure of small businesses
    • Market concentration in the hands of large firms
  • While national accounts may record this as efficiency, it may actually represent economic displacement and reduced livelihood opportunities.

Concerns About Data Transparency

• Missing and Controversial Data
  • Recent developments have raised concerns about the transparency of India’s statistical system:
    • Delay in conducting the Census
    • Non-release of the 2017–18 consumption survey
    • Controversies over unemployment data
• Implications for Democracy
  • These patterns suggest a growing discomfort with unfavourable data, which undermines:
    • Public trust
    • Policy effectiveness
    • Institutional credibility

The Role of Statistics in a Democracy

• Statistics are not merely tools for showcasing achievements; they are essential public infrastructure.
• Reliable data enables:
  • Citizens to hold governments accountable
  • Economists to design effective policies
  • Governments to identify and address emerging crises
• Without credible statistics, economic management becomes guesswork rather than informed decision-making.

The Way Forward

• To restore trust and accuracy in economic measurement, India must:
  • Strengthen independent statistical institutions.
  • Improve methods to capture informal sector activity.
  • Ensure transparency in data collection and publication.
  • Avoid reliance on selective or incomplete indicators.

Conclusion

• India’s economic success cannot rest solely on impressive GDP figures. True progress must be reflected in the everyday experiences of its citizens.
• If growth is genuine, it should withstand scrutiny and align with reality.
• Ultimately, statistics should serve the purpose of truth, not political convenience.
• For a country of India’s scale and ambition, credible and transparent data is not optional, it is essential for building an inclusive, resilient, and trustworthy economic future.

Why in news?

Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharma company behind the popular drug Ozempic (used for weight loss and diabetes), has been trying to protect its product from competition. After failing to win patent infringement cases against Indian generic companies, it filed a trademark case in the Delhi High Court against Dr Reddy’s Laboratories.

Novo Nordisk argued that Dr Reddy’s drug name “Olymviq” was too similar to “Ozempic” and could cause confusion. Following this, Dr Reddy’s agreed in court to stop further manufacturing and selling the drug under the name “Olymviq” for now.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Dr Reddy’s Semaglutide Launch and Branding Strategy
• Novo Nordisk’s Trademark Argument Against Dr Reddy’s
• Deceptively Similar Trademarks in Pharmaceuticals
• What is Permissible in Drug Trademarks?
• Novo Nordisk’s Fight to Protect Its Semaglutide Portfolio

Dr Reddy’s Semaglutide Launch and Branding Strategy

• Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL) launched its semaglutide drug under the brand name ‘Obeda’ on March 21, specifically for treating type-2 diabetes.
  • Semaglutide is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes and is also prescribed for long-term weight management in people with obesity.
• DRL had plans to market the same drug under two other names: Olymviq; Mashlo.
  • These were not disclosed during the initial announcement.
• Trademark Applications and Legal Developments
  • DRL had first applied for the ‘Olymviq’ trademark in July last year, but it faced objections.
  • Later, it filed fresh trademark applications recently and also applied for the logo earlier in March 2026, indicating continued efforts to secure the brand name.
• Unclear Positioning of Olymviq
  • While Novo Nordisk markets Ozempic specifically for weight loss, DRL has not clearly disclosed the intended use of its Olymviq brand — whether for diabetes, weight loss, or another condition.
  • The company has only stated that Olymviq is part of its broader semaglutide portfolio without further details.

Novo Nordisk’s Trademark Argument Against Dr Reddy’s

• Novo Nordisk told the Delhi High Court that Dr Reddy’s use of the name “Olymviq” infringes its “Ozempic” trademark.
• It argued that “Ozempic” is a unique, invented word, and “Olymviq” is deceptively similar in sound, potentially causing confusion and unfairly leveraging its brand.

Deceptively Similar Trademarks in Pharmaceuticals

• The Supreme Court laid down key principles to assess “deceptive similarity” in drug trademarks in the 2001 Cadila Healthcare case (Falcigo vs Falcitab).
• It rejected the argument that prescription-only drugs are less likely to cause confusion, noting that even small mistakes in medicines can have serious health consequences.
• Stricter Standards for Drug Trademarks
  • Recognising that “drugs are poisons, not sweets,” the Court set a lower threshold for confusion in pharmaceutical trademarks compared to other goods.
  • It highlighted India’s varied healthcare infrastructure and the risk of human error, making strict safeguards necessary.
  • The Court established criteria such as phonetic similarity, visual resemblance, and similarity in the nature and use of drugs to assess whether trademarks could cause confusion among consumers or healthcare providers.
• Continued Judicial Application
  • Courts have consistently followed the Cadila ruling. In 2023, the Bombay High Court reiterated that even the slightest chance of confusion in medicinal products is sufficient to restrict the use of a similar trademark.

What is Permissible in Drug Trademarks?

• Under Section 13 of the Trademarks Act, International Non-Proprietary Names (INNs)—standard global names for drug ingredients—cannot be monopolised, as they are generic and non-proprietary in nature.
• Use of INN-Derived Names - Pharmaceutical companies are allowed to derive brand names from INNs, provided the names are clearly distinguishable and not deceptively similar to existing trademarks.
• Judicial Interpretation and Example - In a 2022 Delhi High Court case (Letroz vs Letero), both derived from the INN “Letrozole,” the court ruled there was no deceptive similarity. It noted that specialised doctors, like oncologists, are unlikely to confuse such drugs despite similar prefixes.

Novo Nordisk’s Fight to Protect Its Semaglutide Portfolio

• Novo Nordisk’s drugs Ozempic and Wegovy have driven strong global sales, but the company now faces declining growth due to the expiry of patent protections in several countries, including India.
• The company has filed multiple cases in India accusing generic manufacturers, including Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL), of patent infringement.
• However, it has seen limited success. Courts allowed DRL to manufacture and export generic semaglutide, and this decision was upheld by the Delhi High Court shortly before the patent expired.
• Novo Nordisk is also facing legal challenges to the validity of its now-expired patent for injectable semaglutide, further weakening its position in India.
  • With injectable patent protection expired, Novo Nordisk is now focusing on protecting its oral semaglutide drug, Rybelsus, launched in India in December 2025 just months before patent expiry.
• In a related case, DRL assured the Delhi High Court that its tablet formulation does not fall within the patented range of Rybelsus, as the composition differs in terms of salts used, potentially avoiding infringement.

Why in news?

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has introduced a new policy restricting participation in women’s events to “biological females,” effectively excluding transgender and some intersex athletes.

The decision, aimed at ensuring fairness and safety in competition, will take effect from the 2028 Olympics. It follows pressure from the U.S., including an executive order by President Donald Trump.

The move has intensified ongoing debates around inclusion, fairness, and eligibility in women’s sports, especially after controversies like the 2024 Olympics boxing case.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Understanding the Distinction Between Sex and Gender
• Why Gender Eligibility is Controversial in Women’s Sports?
• Global Shift in Sports Eligibility Rules

Understanding the Distinction Between Sex and Gender

• The IOC, after consulting experts across multiple fields, emphasised that eligibility for the women’s category should be based on biological sex, highlighting the need to clearly distinguish between “sex” and “gender”.
• What is Biological Sex?
  • Sex refers to biological differences such as reproductive organs and chromosomes.
  • Humans typically have XX chromosomes (female) or XY chromosomes (male), though variations exist.
  • Some individuals, such as those with Disorders of Sex Development (DSDs), may not fit neatly into this binary, as seen in cases like athlete Caster Semenya.
    • Intersex individuals possess physical or genetic traits that do not align strictly with typical binary definitions of male or female.
    • As an example of a DSD, individuals with Swyer syndrome may have female reproductive organs despite carrying XY (typically male) chromosomes.
    • The text cites the high-profile case of Olympic athlete Caster Semenya, who has a DSD.
    • Her situation has sparked legal battles over sports regulations that require athletes with high natural testosterone to medically suppress those levels to compete in women's categories.
• What is Gender?
• Gender is a social and personal identity — how individuals perceive themselves, such as male, female, or non-binary.
• It may not always align with biological sex. For instance, a transgender woman may be biologically male but identifies as female.
• Key Difference
  • While sex is biological, determined by physical and genetic traits, gender is psychological and social, based on identity.
  • This distinction lies at the heart of ongoing debates in sports eligibility policies.

Why Gender Eligibility is Controversial in Women’s Sports?

• The debate over gender eligibility in women’s sports stems from the fact that modern sports are divided based on biological sex, as men generally possess physiological advantages over women.
• Role of Testosterone in Athletic Performance
  • Testosterone, influenced by the SRY gene on the Y chromosome, is linked to greater muscle mass, strength, bone density, and haemoglobin levels.
  • Studies suggest this hormone largely explains performance differences between male and female athletes, with an estimated 10–20% advantage in certain sports.
  • While evidence supports testosterone’s impact, it is not fully conclusive.
  • Critics argue that natural variations, such as higher testosterone in some women or genetic advantages like height or limb structure, complicate the fairness argument.
• Core of the Debate
  • The central issue is whether athletes with higher natural testosterone levels—such as those with DSDs or transgender women—have an unfair advantage.
  • Some advocate restricting their participation to ensure fairness in women’s sports.
  • The IOC maintains that allowing transgender and certain DSD athletes in women’s categories may compromise fairness, safety, and competitive integrity, especially in sports dependent on strength, power, and endurance.

Global Shift in Sports Eligibility Rules

• The IOC’s new policy marks a significant departure from its 2021 approach, where international federations were allowed to frame their own rules based on fairness, inclusion, and scientific evidence.
• Now, the IOC has indicated that its stricter criteria should be widely adopted across global sports bodies, potentially standardising exclusionary rules.
• Existing and Emerging Regulations
  • Many international federations had already imposed restrictions based on testosterone levels.
  • For instance, World Athletics requires DSD athletes to maintain low testosterone levels, while sports bodies like FINA, cycling, and rugby have implemented varying bans on transgender women.
    • Some have also introduced genetic testing, such as the SRY gene test, to determine eligibility.
  • The issue has evolved into a broader conflict between fairness (ensuring a level playing field for biological women) and inclusion (allowing participation regardless of gender identity).
  • Critics argue that blanket bans may ignore differences across sports and individual cases.
• Challenges of Alternative Solutions
  • Proposals like creating an “open category” for transgender athletes face practical challenges due to the limited number of elite-level participants, making implementation difficult.
• Social and Political Implications
  • The policy is likely to deepen global debates around gender identity and sports.
  • Advocacy groups warn it could discourage participation at grassroots levels, making transgender individuals feel excluded, and further polarising discussions on gender and inclusion in society.

Why in the News?

• The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2025 shows higher wage growth for women than men, but persistent gender wage inequality.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Gender Wage Gap (Definition, Causes, Significance, etc.)
• News Summary (PLFS 2025 Data, Employment Levels, Employment Structure, Market Trends, etc.)

Gender Wage Gap in India

• The Gender Wage Gap refers to the difference in earnings between men and women for similar work or across sectors.
• In India, this gap reflects structural inequalities in employment opportunities, skill access, and labour market participation.
• Nature of the Wage Gap

• Women earn less than men across all job categories.
• The gap varies by type of employment, such as salaried jobs, casual labour, and self-employment.
• Informal sector dominance and occupational segregation worsen the disparity.

• Causes of Wage Inequality

• Lower female labour force participation.
• Concentration of women in low-paying and informal jobs.
• Limited access to education, skills, and capital.
• Social norms and unpaid care responsibilities.

• Significance
  • Reducing the gender wage gap is essential for inclusive economic growth.
  • It enhances household incomes, boosts productivity, and improves gender equality outcomes.

News Summary

• The PLFS 2025 data presents a mixed picture of progress and challenges in India’s labour market, particularly with respect to gender-based wage disparities.
• Employment Levels
  • About 61.6 crore people were employed in India in 2025.
  • Male workers: 41.6 crore.
  • Female workers: 20.0 crore.
  • This indicates a significant gender gap in overall employment levels.

• Higher Wage Growth for Women
  • According to the data, women’s wages grew faster than men’s across all job categories in 2025.

• Salaried jobs: Women’s wages grew by 7.2% compared to 5.8% for men.
• Self-employment: Women’s earnings rose by 8.8%, slightly higher than men’s 8%.
• Casual labour: Women’s wages increased by 5.4%, while men’s wages declined marginally by 0.2%.
• This indicates a positive trend in wage growth for women, suggesting gradual improvements in labour market conditions.

• Persistent Wage Inequality
  • Despite faster growth, the wage gap remains substantial.
  • In salaried jobs, women earned only 76% of male earnings.
  • In casual labour, women earned 69% of male wages.
  • In self-employment, women earned just 36% of what men earned.
  • This highlights that higher growth rates are not sufficient to bridge the existing disparity.

• Changes in Employment Structure
  • The survey also shows improvements in the nature of employment.
  • The share of women in salaried jobs increased to 18.2% in 2025 from 16.6% in 2024.
  • Self-employment among women declined, indicating a shift toward better-quality jobs.
  • Casual labour participation also increased slightly.
  • Salaried jobs are considered more secure as they provide social security benefits and a stable income.

• Overall Labour Market Trends
  • The broader labour market indicators also show gradual improvement.
  • Rural unemployment declined to 2.4% from 2.5%.
  • Urban unemployment fell to 4.8% from 5%.
  • Youth unemployment declined to 9.9% from 10.3%.

• However, female youth unemployment increased slightly, indicating persistent gender-specific challenges.

• Labour Force Participation
  • Labour force participation trends present a mixed picture.
  • Rural LFPR declined slightly to 62.8%.
  • Urban LFPR remained stable at 52.2%.
  • A decline in LFPR suggests that fewer individuals, especially in rural areas, are actively seeking employment.

• Informal Sector Concerns
  • The data also reflects slowing momentum in the informal sector.
  • Wage growth in the informal sector was only 3.9% in 2025.
  • Job creation slowed significantly, with fewer establishments being added.
  • Since a large proportion of women are employed in the informal sector, this has important implications for gender equality in earnings.

Context:

• India recently announced its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for 2030–2035 under the Paris Agreement.
• These targets emerge amid a fragile global order marked by geopolitical conflicts, weakening multilateralism, and renewed reliance on fossil fuels by developed nations.

India’s Enhanced Climate Targets:

• Emissions intensity reduction:
  • Emissions intensity of GDP growth has now been set at 47% reduction by 2035 (from 2005 levels) against the previous target of 45% and the actual figure of 36% already achieved.
  • Insight: Incremental gains become harder as efficiency improves, yet India is likely to overachieve.
• Non-fossil fuel energy capacity:
  • The previous target of 50% for 2030 has already been overtaken, as the current figure is 52.5%. The target of 60% for 2035 is realistic, given a much more challenging energy outlook.
  • Key concern: Installed capacity is not equal to actual generation, as renewable energy contributes only ~20% of electricity generation currently.
  • Need: To improve grid integration, storage, and dispatch efficiency.
• Carbon sink expansion through afforestation:
  • Against the previous target of adding 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030, the current achievement is estimated to be 2.296 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
  • The target for 2035 has now been set at 3.5-4 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent, which appears realistic.
  • Risks: Biodiversity loss, monoculture impacts, and inclusion of plantations may undermine ecological integrity.

Adaptation - A Strategic Priority:

• Why does adaptation matter? Even with zero emissions, climate impacts persist due to accumulated greenhouse gases.
• Key measures:
  • Heat Action Plans (HAPs) for rising temperatures.
  • Monitoring Himalayan glaciers and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
  • Protection of Mangroves (coastal defense), marine ecosystems (fish stocks, biodiversity).
• Regional cooperation: Collaboration with neighbours essential for Himalayan ecosystem monitoring, and maritime ecological security.

Clean Energy Transition Pathways:

• Green hydrogen:
  • India’s green hydrogen mission holds great promise in meeting the twin challenge of climate change and energy security.
  • Challenge: Currently, hydrogen is a byproduct from petrochemical production, so its generation is carbon intensive.
  • Solution: Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis, but whether this process uses fossil energy or renewable energy will determine how “green” and clean hydrogen can be as a fuel.
• Nuclear energy push:
  • The government has set an ambitious target of 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, coinciding with the Viksit Bharat target, against the current installed capacity of only 8.8 GW.
  • Policy support:
    • The SHANTI Act 2025 opens this hitherto sensitive sector to the private sector, permitting up to 49% FDI in nuclear power generation.
    • It has also amended the liability clause in the existing legislation to bring it in line with international practice.
    • Promotes Small Modular Reactors (SMR) [200-250 MW capacity currently under development], providing decentralised and distributed power.

Structural Challenge - Energy Poverty:

• India's annual per capita electricity consumption is 1,460 KWh as against a world average of 3,800 KWh.
• The challenge lies in significantly increasing this consumption but in as ecologically sustainable a manner as possible.

Global Context and Constraints:

• Meagre climate finance: Less than $100 billion a year (developed countries promised $100 billion a year since the Paris Agreement).
• Challenges: This meagre climate finance will be further squeezed under the impact of war, incipient inflation and competing demands of national security and relief from economic distress.
• Need: The world needs to recognise that energy transition requires resources that are limited in the absence of international support.

Key Challenges for India:

• Domestic: Bridging the gap between capacity and generation. Ensuring ecological integrity in afforestation. Scaling clean technologies affordably. Managing energy transition with limited resources.
• External: Lack of adequate climate finance. Weak global cooperation mechanisms. Pressure on developing countries to bear disproportionate burden.

Way Forward:

• Policy and technology: Invest in energy storage, smart grids, and transmission. Promote truly green hydrogen via renewables. Accelerate SMR-based nuclear expansion.
• Ecological balance: Prioritise natural forests over plantations. Strengthen coastal and marine ecosystem protection.
• Adaptation and resilience: Scale up HAPs nationwide. Enhance disaster preparedness (GLOFs, cyclones).
• Diplomacy and cooperation: Push for climate justice and finance accountability. Strengthen regional climate cooperation frameworks.

Conclusion:

• India’s updated NDCs present a credible and balanced climate strategy, tackling the twin challenges of climate change and energy security with its own limited resources, and navigating the dual imperatives of development and sustainability.
• India’s approach offers a pragmatic model for the Global South, but without robust international support, the transition risks being slower and more uneven.

Why in news?

A U.S. jury in Los Angeles found Meta and YouTube guilty of designing addictive platforms that harmed a young user.

The companies were deemed negligent and accused of malice and fraud, with $6 million in damages awarded—Meta liable for 70% and YouTube 30%.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Background: Landmark Case Links Social Media Design to Youth Harm
• Overcoming Section 230: The Legal Shift in Social Media Liability
• Parallel Verdict Highlights Platform Safety Concerns
• India’s regulatory framework for children on the internet

Background: Landmark Case Links Social Media Design to Youth Harm

• The case highlights allegations that Meta (Facebook, Instagram) and YouTube intentionally designed addictive platforms that harmed young users.
• A 20-year-old plaintiff argued that early exposure led to anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia.
• The lawsuit treats social media as a product, comparing its design to “digital casinos” that exploit dopamine-driven engagement.

Overcoming Section 230: The Legal Shift in Social Media Liability

• Past lawsuits against social media companies often failed due to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects platforms from liability for user-generated content.
• Plaintiffs bypassed Section 230 by focusing on product design, arguing that harm arose from platform architecture—such as feeds and engagement mechanisms—rather than specific content.
• The jury examined whether harm stemmed from platform design (not third-party content) and whether companies met negligence criteria: duty of care, breach, causation, and harm.
• Despite arguments about external factors, the jury applied the “substantial factor” test and concluded that platform design significantly contributed to the harm.
• The jury found evidence of conscious disregard for user safety, supported by internal research showing companies were aware of risks but continued harmful design practices.

Parallel Verdict Highlights Platform Safety Concerns

• A New Mexico jury found Meta liable under consumer protection law for misleading users about platform safety, awarding $375 million in damages.
• The case focused on decisions like expanding end-to-end encryption despite internal warnings about child exploitation risks.
• Together with the Los Angeles verdict, it signals a broader shift toward holding platforms accountable for design choices and safety practices, not just user content.

India’s regulatory framework for children on the internet

• Information Technology Act, 2000
  • Prohibits harmful and explicit content involving children.
  • Mandates quick removal (within 2–3 hours) of unlawful content.
  • Requires reporting offences under relevant laws like POCSO.
• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
  • Requires verifiable parental consent for processing children’s data.
  • Prohibits tracking, behavioural monitoring, and targeted advertising directed at children.
• Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011, (SPDI Rules)
  • Ensure data is collected for specific purposes with consent.
  • Restrict disclosure of sensitive personal data.
• Awareness and Capacity Building
  • CERT-In Initiatives - Provides safety advisories, awareness campaigns, and cybersecurity guidance.
  • Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) - Conducted thousands of workshops covering lakhs of participants. Trained teachers, police personnel, and volunteers as cybersecurity trainers.
• Technical and Enforcement Measures
  • Blocking of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through global databases.
  • Collaboration with international agencies like NCMEC (USA).
  • Promotion of parental control filters and cyber safety awareness.
• Overall Significance
  • India has adopted a multi-layered approach combining legal provisions, regulatory frameworks, awareness programmes, and institutional mechanisms to mitigate risks from AI and protect children in the digital ecosystem.

Why in news?

The RBI has stated that India’s forex reserves remain adequate to cushion external shocks, even as heavy foreign investor outflows ($12.1 billion in March) have weakened the rupee to record lows.

Although reserves stand at a robust $710 billion—close to the recent peak of $728 billion—the headline figure needs closer examination to assess true strength.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Components of India’s Forex Reserves
• Dual Strategy for Defending the Rupee
• RBI’s Forex Reserves: Adjusted Reality Raises Concerns
• RBI’s Dilemma: Defend the Rupee or Preserve Forex Reserves

Components of India’s Forex Reserves

• India’s forex reserves comprise four elements:
  • Foreign Currency (FX) Assets
  • Gold Holdings
  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
  • Reserve Tranche Position with the IMF
• Minor Components: Limited Immediate Use
  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
    • Valued at $18.7 billion
    • Based on a basket of global currencies
    • Serve as a buffer that can be exchanged during crises
  • IMF Reserve Tranche Position
    • Worth $4.8 billion
    • Functions as an emergency credit line with the IMF
• Major Components: Real Strength of Reserves
  • Foreign Currency (FX) Assets
    • Valued at $556 billion
    • Primary tool for RBI to manage currency volatility
    • Most liquid and usable component
  • Gold Holdings
    • Valued at $131 billion
    • Acts as a long-term store of value
    • Not easily deployable for routine currency defence
  • While total reserves appear large, FX assets are the most relevant measure of the RBI’s ability to defend the rupee in the short term, though even this requires further adjustments.

Dual Strategy for Defending the Rupee

• The RBI can stop the rupee from falling in two ways.
• The RBI uses a balanced approach, combining spot and forward interventions to stabilise the rupee while managing liquidity and interest rate pressures in the domestic economy.
• Spot Market Intervention
  • The RBI sells foreign exchange (FX) in the spot market, immediately reducing forex reserves and supporting the rupee.
  • Impact
    • Strengthens or stabilises the rupee
    • Reduces rupee liquidity in the system
    • Leads to higher domestic interest rates
• Forward Market Intervention
  • The RBI sells FX in the forward market, agreeing to deliver dollars at a future date rather than immediately.
  • Impact
    • Helps defend the rupee without immediate reserve depletion
    • Avoids tightening of rupee liquidity
    • Prevents upward pressure on interest rates

RBI’s Forex Reserves: Adjusted Reality Raises Concerns

• Although headline FX assets appear strong, RBI’s net forward sales of $68 billion (as of January) reduce effective reserves to below $500 billion.
• With continued rupee pressure, this gap may have widened further.
• Analysts warn that reserve adequacy—measured by import cover—is nearing 2013 BoP stress levels, raising concerns about external vulnerability.

RBI’s Dilemma: Defend the Rupee or Preserve Forex Reserves

• Despite selling $94 billion in FX since October 2024, the rupee has weakened sharply, highlighting limits of intervention amid global pressures and capital outflows.
• Analysts warn the rupee could fall to 97–98 if conditions persist.
• With rising oil prices and investor exits increasing the import bill, economists suggest the RBI may need to allow a controlled depreciation to conserve reserves during a prolonged crisis.

Why in the News?

• The 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation has begun amid debates on global trade reforms and India’s policy stance.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• WTO (Objectives, Key Principles, Mechanism, Significance, etc.)
• News Summary (Crisis of Relevance, India’s Trade Strategy, etc.)

World Trade Organization

• The World Trade Organisation (WTO) is a global international body established in 1995 to regulate and facilitate international trade among nations.
• Objectives

• Promote free and fair global trade.
• Ensure predictability and transparency in trade rules.
• Provide a platform for negotiation and dispute settlement.
• Support development through trade integration.

• Key Principles

• Most-Favoured Nation (MFN): Equal treatment to all member countries in trade.
• National Treatment: Imported goods should be treated equally with domestic goods.
• Consensus-based decision-making: Decisions are typically taken with agreement from all of the members.

• Institutional Mechanisms

• Ministerial Conference: The highest decision-making body, held every two years.
• Dispute Settlement Body: Resolves trade disputes among member countries.
• Trade Policy Review Mechanism: Monitors trade policies of member countries.

• Significance
  • The WTO plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable global trade system.
  • However, in recent years, it has faced challenges such as weakening dispute settlement mechanisms and rising protectionism.

News Summary

• The ongoing WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) takes place in a context of a changing global trade order and growing tensions among major economies.
• Crisis of Relevance
  • The WTO is facing a crisis of relevance due to disruptions in global trade rules.
  • The dispute settlement mechanism has become ineffective because of the blocking of judge appointments by the United States.
• Push for WTO Reforms
  • The United States is advocating significant reforms, including reconsideration of the MFN principle.
  • There is also a push to incorporate plurilateral agreements, which involve a subset of countries instead of all members.
  • This represents a shift away from the WTO’s traditional consensus-based approach.
• E-commerce Moratorium
  • One of the key issues is the continuation of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions. It has been in place since 1998.
  • Developed countries support its continuation.
  • India, along with countries like Indonesia and South Africa, opposes it.
  • India argues that:

• It may lead to significant revenue loss.
• It restricts policy space in the digital economy.
• Developing countries lack the technological capacity to benefit equally.

• Investment Facilitation Agreement
  • Another major issue is the China-backed Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement.
  • Supported by over 120 countries.
  • Aims to improve the flow of foreign direct investment.
  • India opposes this agreement because:

• It is being introduced through a plurilateral route.
• It undermines the multilateral and consensus-based structure of the WTO.
• It may have strategic implications linked to global investment networks.

• Public Stockholding for Food Security
  • India continues to push for a permanent solution on public stockholding.
  • WTO rules limit agricultural subsidies to 10% of production value.
  • India seeks flexibility to support farmers and ensure food security.
  • This is crucial because:

• India supports millions of small farmers through MSP.
• Around 80 crore people receive free food grains under welfare schemes.

• Fisheries Subsidies and Livelihood Concerns
  • India advocates a balanced approach to fisheries subsidies.
  • It supports sustainability in fishing practices.
  • It emphasises the protection of small fishers’ livelihoods.
  • It calls for greater responsibility from developed nations engaged in distant water fishing.

• India’s Broader Trade Strategy
  • India’s approach to the WTO is guided by the need to preserve policy space.
  • India has a relatively low share in global trade but high growth potential.
  • Past experiences, such as the Information Technology Agreement (ITA-1), influence its cautious approach.
  • India aims to ensure that:

• Development concerns remain central to WTO reforms.
• Trade rules do not constrain domestic policy flexibility.
• Emerging sectors like digital trade are regulated fairly.

Context:

• The ongoing geopolitical turbulence in West Asia highlights a structural reality for India: energy insecurity is systemic, not episodic.
• With over 85% dependence on crude oil imports, India remains highly vulnerable to supply disruptions, price shocks, and regional conflicts—leading to inflationary pressures, fiscal strain, and current account deficits.
• However, this crisis also presents a strategic opportunity to transform vulnerability into long-term energy resilience and leadership.

Structural Challenge - Import Dependence and Vulnerability:

• Heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels exposes India to geopolitical risks, volatile oil prices, and macroeconomic instability.
• Energy security is thus directly linked to economic stability, strategic autonomy, and climate commitments (NDCs).

Scaling Renewable Energy - From Incrementalism to Transformation:

• Need for ambition reset:
  • India’s existing target of 500 GW of RE by 2030 was bold when announced, but it's no longer sufficient today. A revised target of 1,500 GW by 2030 is both necessary and achievable.
  • For example, China added almost 1,600 GW in clean energy (solar and wind) in 2025, whereas India added a mere 49 GW.
• Policy imperatives:
  • Strengthening procurement mechanisms: Central agencies must aggregate and contract at least 200 GW+ annually, complemented by aggressive state-level procurement.
  • Strengthening: Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs), and Renewable Consumption Obligations (RCOs). 

Grid Infrastructure and Storage - The Missing Link:

• Transmission bottlenecks:
  • Renewables-rich states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
  • Last year, over 50GW of energy capacity remained stranded due to a lack of evacuation and over 35GW is likely to be curtailed this year.
  • As storage is equally critical, grid infrastructure must be treated as a national priority.
• Key reforms:
  • Develop high-capacity transmission corridors that are seamlessly integrated with storage systems.
  • Expand Renewable Energy Management Centres (REMCs).
  • Integrate Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Pumped Hydro Storage
  • Make storage mandatory in RE tenders.
  • Reduce GST on storage systems.

Household Energy Transition - From LPG to Electrification:

• Issues with LPG: Significant import dependence, which increased further with the success of schemes like PM Ujjwala Yojana.
• Suggestions:
  • Promote electric induction cooking.
  • Replicate UJALA model (demand aggregation for affordability).
  • Use Ujjwala database for targeted distribution.

Transport Electrification as Economic Strategy:

• Clear and time-bound roadmap: Full electrification of new two-wheelers and three-wheelers by 2030, buses in the near term, and cars and trucks by 2035.
• Challenges: Weak battery ecosystem, and underperformance of PLI for Advanced Chemistry Cells.
• Solutions: Restructure PLI scheme, expand charging infrastructure, and create viable business models and standards.

Nuclear Energy - Backbone of Grid Stability:

• Strategic role: As nuclear power provides the firm, non-intermittent supply that is essential for grid stability, it must be scaled as a long-term backbone of India’s energy mix.
• Targets and innovations: India’s ambition to reach 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047 is strategic and necessary. Small modular reactors offer a scalable pathway.
• Policy priorities: Enable private sector participation, strengthen global partnerships, and streamline regulatory processes.

Critical Minerals - Securing the Supply Chain:

• Core issues: Overdependence on concentrated global supply chains, lack of domestic processing and refining capacity.
• Strategic measures: Develop end-to-end domestic capabilities; secure assured offtake agreements, price support mechanisms, deepen partnerships with resource-rich countries, and invest in human capital (battery tech, mineral processing).

Clean Energy Manufacturing Hub - India’s Next Growth Engine:

• Key sectors: Solar modules, batteries, electrolysers, grid technologies and green hydrogen represent the next wave of global manufacturing.
• Policy direction: Align PLI schemes across sectors, reduce logistics costs, and boost export competitiveness. Leverage domestic demand, policy incentives, and scale advantage.

Financing the Energy Transition:

• Challenges: High capital requirements, risk perception in emerging sectors.
• Best practice:
  • India's renewable sector has attracted private capital from across the world, thanks to predictable policies and actions through the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
  • Similar policy frameworks are necessary across sectors to enable the private sector to attract capital and technology.
• Solutions:
  • India must deepen its green finance ecosystem, including green bonds, blended finance structures, and sovereign-backed risk mitigation instruments.
  • Strengthen role of domestic financial institutions, Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), and develop robust carbon markets.

Governance and Execution - Whole-of-Government Approach:

• Execution must be anchored in institutional coordination and accountability.
• India has demonstrated its ability to deliver at scale, whether through digital public infrastructure (DPI), financial inclusion, or RE deployment.
• Therefore, energy transition now requires an integrated action across centre, states, and municipal bodies.

Conclusion:

• The instability in West Asia is both a warning and an opportunity.
• India stands at a critical juncture where it can either remain vulnerable to external shocks or emerge as a global leader in clean energy and energy security.
• By adopting a holistic, ambitious, and execution-driven approach, India can transition from energy dependence to energy sovereignty, shaping not just its own future but also contributing to global energy transformation.