24 april 2025 Current Affairs

Arsenic Pollution

Syllabus: Environment

Context:

A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health warns that climate change may increase arsenic levels in rice, posing serious health risks in Asia by 2050.

What is Arsenic (As)?

A naturally occurring trace element, commonly found in combination with sulfur and metals in minerals
Highly toxic in its inorganic form

Health Impacts of Arsenic Exposure:

Long-term exposure may lead to:
Cancer, skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes
Early-life exposure (in-utero or childhood):
Impaired cognitive development
Increased mortality in young adults
Blackfoot Disease (Taiwan):
A severe vascular condition linked to arsenic, leading to gangrene

Permissible Limits:

WHO Guideline:01 mg/l (10 μg/l)
India (in absence of alternative):05 mg/l (50 μg/l)

Arsenic Contamination in India:

First identified in West Bengal (1980)
Widespread contamination in the Ganga–Brahmaputra alluvial plains
Affects millions of people through contaminated groundwater

Government Initiatives:

National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP):
Focuses on providing safe drinking water
Targets removal of contaminants like arsenic and fluoride

‘AMRIT’ Technology by IIT-Madras:

Innovative method to remove arsenic and metal ions from water
Supports affordable, scalable water purification

Consider the following statements about arsenic contamination in India:

The highest concentrations of arsenic are found in hard rock aquifers of peninsular India.
The permissible limit of arsenic in drinking water is stricter in India than the WHO standard.
Arsenic contamination is predominantly an issue in alluvial plains.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: B. 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The highest concentrations are found in alluvial aquifers (Ganga–Brahmaputra plains), not hard rock aquifers.
Statement 2 is incorrect: India’s permissible limit (0.05 mg/l) is more lenient than the WHO standard (0.01 mg/l).
Statement 3 is correct: Arsenic contamination is a major issue in the alluvial plains due to geological and hydrological factors.

Gold Prices Cross Rs 1 lakh-mark For First Time

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context:

Gold prices in India have surged past ₹1 lakh per 10 grams, marking an all-time high and drawing attention to the underlying global and domestic economic factors.

Key Factors Influencing Gold Prices:

Supply and Demand Dynamics:
Higher mining output can reduce prices.
Increased demand (for investment, jewelry, or industrial use) pushes prices upward.

Inflation:

Gold acts as a hedge against inflation.
Rising inflation increases demand for gold, driving prices higher.

Interest Rates:

Lower interest rates make gold more attractive as it offers no yield but becomes more competitive.
Higher rates lead to lower gold prices due to increased opportunity cost.

Geopolitical Instability:

Political tensions, wars, or global crises boost demand for gold as a safe haven asset.

Currency Fluctuations:

Gold is priced in S. dollars.
A weaker dollar makes gold cheaper for other currencies, increasing global demand.

Central Bank Policies:

Central banks buying or selling gold significantly influence global prices.
Gold is a key component of central banks’ foreign exchange reserves.

Global Economic Conditions:

During economic downturns or recessions, investors turn to gold for stability, raising its value.

Key Global Facts About Gold:

Top Gold Producers:
China (largest)
Russia
Australia

Top Gold Consumers:

China
India

Largest Gold Reserves (by country):

United States – ~8,133.5 metric tons
Germany
Italy

Consider the following statements regarding the relationship between inflation and gold prices:

Gold is an inflation-sensitive commodity due to its industrial utility.
In inflationary periods, real interest rates usually rise, making gold more attractive.
Gold’s value often rises as it acts as a store of value when currency depreciates.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A. 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Gold’s price sensitivity in inflation isn’t due to industrial use but due to its monetary role as a hedge.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Inflation typically lowers real interest rates, which makes non-yielding assets like gold more attractive.
Statement 3 is correct: Gold maintains purchasing power when currency loses value.

Green Way to Recycle Toxic Perovskite Solar Cells

Syllabus: GS3/ Science and Technology

A recent study published in Nature highlights a novel water-based method for recycling Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs), aiming to reduce environmental risks associated with traditional recycling techniques.

What are Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs)?

A promising class of next-generation photovoltaic (PV) technologies.
Utilize materials with a perovskite crystal structure for efficient sunlight absorption.
Known for their high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and low production costs.
A major concern: Use of toxic elements, especially lead (Pb), which pose environmental and health risks upon disposal.

Limitations of Traditional Recycling:

Typically use toxic organic solvents like dimethylformamide (DMF).
These pose serious environmental hazards and complicate safe recycling.

The New Water-Based Green Recycling Method:

Solvent-free approach using safer and more sustainable chemicals.

Employs three key salts:

Sodium acetate: Binds with lead to form water-soluble lead acetate.
Sodium iodide: Supplies iodide ions to reconstruct degraded perovskite.
Hypophosphorous acid: Stabilizes the solution, enhancing crystal purity and quality.

This process:

Dissolves the toxic perovskite layer.
Enables re-synthesis of high-purity crystals for reuse in new PSCs.

Additionally, ethanol and ethyl acetate are used to:

Recover other components such as metal electrodes and glass substrates

Significance:

Promotes sustainable recycling of advanced solar technology.
Reduces reliance on hazardous chemicals.
Paves the way for greener production cycles in solar energy industries.

Consider the following pairs:

Compound	Function in Water-Based PSC Recycling
Sodium iodide	Provides iodide ions to reconstruct perovskite
Hypophosphorous acid	Stabilizes the recycling solution and ensures crystal quality
Ethanol and ethyl acetate	Used to dissolve the perovskite layer

Which of the pairs are correctly matched?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Pair 1 is correct: Sodium iodide contributes iodide ions to rebuild the perovskite structure.
Pair 2 is correct: Hypophosphorous acid stabilizes the chemical environment, aiding in crystal formation.
Pair 3 is incorrect: Ethanol and ethyl acetate are not used to dissolve perovskite, but to recover other components like metal electrodes and glass substrates.

Terror Attack In Pehalgam

Syllabus: GS3/ Security

A recent terrorist attack occurred in the Baisaran Valley, near Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir—an area often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” for its scenic beauty.The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Resistance Front (TRF): Background

Founded: October 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the former state of Jammu & Kashmir.
Status: Declared a banned terrorist organization by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2023 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Activities:

Propaganda and radicalization
Recruitment of terrorists
Cross-border infiltration
Smuggling of arms and narcotics from Pakistan

Evolution of Militancy in Jammu & Kashmir

Historical Roots:

Linked to the 1947 partition and disputed status of Kashmir.
Armed insurgency began in the late 1980s, intensified by alleged electoral manipulation and Pakistan’s involvement.

1990s Onward:

High levels of violence targeting civilians, including the Kashmiri Pandit exodus.
Aggressive Indian counter-insurgency measures

Post-2019 Phase:

After Article 370 revocation, emergence of:
Targeted killings of minorities and non-locals
Use of “hybrid militants” (non-listed, local civilians turned terrorists)
Terror shift southward to districts like Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua

Key Challenges to Security in J&K

State-Sponsored Terrorism:
Pakistan’s support via training camps, funding, and safe havens for terror groups.
Porous Borders and Terrain:
Forested, mountainous regions and extreme weather conditions hinder effective border sealing.
Strategic Redeployment:
Troop repositioning to eastern Ladakh post-Galwan has weakened the grid in Jammu
Technological Sophistication of Militants:
Use of night vision, M4 rifles, and encrypted communication apps (Telegram, Chirpwire, Enigma, TamTam) via VPNs.
Demographic and Communal Sensitivities:
Diverse religious and ethnic composition in J&K is exploited to provoke communal unrest.
Over Ground Workers (OGWs):
Critical network of local facilitators providing logistics, intelligence, safe houses, and funding—often hidden from detection.

Way Forward: A Multi-Pronged Strategy

Security Grid Reinforcement
Establish integrated command centers for seamless coordination between Army, JKP, CRPF, intelligence agencies.
Deploy COBRA & SOG joint units for jungle warfare operations.
Reinforce presence in vulnerable districts (Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Kathua) with Valley-experienced troops.

Technological Modernization

Complete rollout of Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) with:
Smart fencing, seismic sensors, AI, and drones.
Enhance cyber-forensics and counter-encryption capabilities.
Revival of HUMINT (Human Intelligence)
Rebuild networks through inter-agency deconfliction and ground-level intelligence revival.

Community Engagement

Expand and equip Village Defence Guards (VDGs).
Roll out targeted counter-radicalization programs in educational and religious institutions.
Diplomatic Pressure
Sustain efforts at UN, FATF, and other global platforms to expose Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terrorism.

With reference to recent patterns of terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, consider the following statements:

The emergence of “hybrid militants” has made early detection and profiling of terrorists increasingly difficult.
The strategic redeployment of Indian forces post-Galwan has strengthened the counter-insurgency grid in Jammu region.
The Resistance Front (TRF) was formed as a direct response to the revocation of Article 370.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: “Hybrid militants” are civilians who operate as sleeper agents, making them harder to profile or preempt—posing a new security challenge.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Post-Galwan, forces were diverted to the eastern front (Ladakh), weakening the grid in parts of Jammu, not strengthening it.
Statement 3 is correct: TRF emerged in October 2019, soon after Article 370 was abrogated, as a proxy to distance Pakistan from overt terrorist labels.

Extreme Weather Events Forecasting with AI

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography

As extreme weather events become more frequent, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasting, going beyond the limitations of traditional physics-based models.

Traditional Weather Prediction Models

Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP): Uses fluid dynamics and thermodynamics equations to simulate atmospheric behavior.
Inputs: Data from satellites, radars, weather stations.
Requires: High-performance supercomputers for processing.
Limitation: Struggles with nonlinear systems and local conditions.

AI-Based Weather Prediction

Data-Driven: Relies on machine learning algorithms to detect patterns and correlations in large datasets.
No need for prior knowledge of physical laws.
Learns from inputs like temperature, humidity, wind, etc., to forecast events such as cyclones or heavy rainfall.

Advantages of AI Models

Big Data Utilization: Processes vast volumes from diverse sources, including social media.
Detection of Nonlinear Patterns: Identifies complex interdependencies missed by traditional models.
Localized Forecasting: Enables region-specific customization based on geography and microclimates.
Real-Time Nowcasting: Offers rapid forecasts for the next few hours—critical for disaster response and urban planning.

Challenges in AI-Based Forecasting

Complexity of Weather Systems: Requires sophisticated modeling to capture dynamic atmospheric processes.
Skill Gap: Lack of experts skilled in both AI/ML and meteorology.
Insufficient Sensor Network: Sparse ground-level data limits regional model accuracy.
Climate Change Sensitivity: Models trained on current data may underperform in future altered climates.
Data Quality Issues: Inconsistent formats, sensor errors, and coverage gaps reduce model reliability.
Black Box Problem: Lack of interpretability in AI decisions affects trust and adoption by meteorologists.

India’s Weather Forecasting Framework

Managed by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
Uses:
INSAT-3D, INSAT-3DR, INSAT-3DS for satellite-based meteorological data.
Doppler radars for short-range, localized rainfall and storm predictions.

Initiatives to Improve Weather Prediction in India

Mission Mausam:
Upgrade forecasting tools and technologies.
Deploy AI/ML, next-gen radars, and advanced satellites.
Enhance Earth System Models for more accurate predictions.
National Monsoon Mission (2012):
Transition to real-time, on-ground data collection.
Improve monsoon and seasonal forecasting.
WINDS Program (Ministry of Agriculture):
Install 2 lakh+ weather stations for hyper-local data generation to support agriculture.

About IMD

Apex body for meteorology, forecasting, and seismology in India.
A Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre (RSMC) under the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).

With reference to AI-based weather forecasting, which of the following statements is/are correct?

AI models can be effectively used without any real-time observational data inputs.
AI models can uncover nonlinear relationships that traditional numerical models may fail to detect.
Unlike traditional models, AI models can fully replace the need for meteorological satellites.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer:(B).2only
Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: AI still needs high-quality data inputs; it doesn’t eliminate the need for real-time data.
Statement 2 is correct: AI excels in pattern recognition, especially for nonlinear relationships in complex systems.
Statement 3 is incorrect: AI complements, but does not replace satellites—satellite data is essential input.

PM State Visit to Saudi Arabia

Syllabus: GS2/IR

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a state visit to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties through new strategic and sectoral partnerships.

Key Outcomes of the Visit

Strategic Partnership Council (SPC)
2nd Leaders’ Meeting co-chaired by both nations.

New Committees Formed Under SPC:

Defence Cooperation Committee – reflecting enhanced military collaboration.
Tourism and Cultural Cooperation Committee – to boost people-to-people ties.

Existing Committees:

Political, Consular & Security Cooperation
Economy, Energy, Investment & Technology
High-Level Task Force on Investment (HLTF)
Saudi Arabia reaffirmed commitment to invest USD 100 billion in India.
Agreed to collaborate on two refinery projects in India.

MoUs Signed

Space Cooperation: MoU between Saudi Space Agency & India’s Department of Space.
Health Sector Cooperation: MoU between Ministries of Health.

Overview of Bilateral Relations

Political Ties
Diplomatic relations since 1947.
Key Agreements:
Delhi Declaration (2006)
Riyadh Declaration (2010): Elevated ties to strategic level.
SPC Agreement (2019): Created a high-level council for steering relations.

Economic Engagement

Bilateral trade (FY 2023–24): USD 42.98 billion
Indian exports: USD 11.56 billion
Imports (primarily energy): USD 31.42 billion
India is Saudi Arabia’s 2nd largest trading partner; Saudi Arabia is India’s 4th largest.

Energy Cooperation

Crude Oil: 33.35 MMT imported in FY 2023–24 (14.3% of India’s imports).
LPG: 3rd largest source (18.2% of India’s LPG imports).
Diaspora & Remittances
7 million Indians reside in Saudi Arabia (2024), second only to Bangladeshis.
Significant source of remittances, bolstering India’s forex reserves.

Defence & Security Cooperation

Focus on Self-Reliance: Aligning Vision 2030 (Saudi) with Make in India.
Saudi Arabia shifting from defence importer to localised production target of 50%.

Contracts signed:

$250 mn ammunition deal with Munitions India Limited
Procurement of ATAGS from Bharat Forge

Joint Military Exercises

Sada Tanseeq – Inaugural army exercise (2024)
Al Mohed Al Hindi – Naval bilateral exercise (since 2022)

Strategic Significance

Saudi Arabia plays a pivotal role in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Stable relations help India navigate West Asian diplomacy.
Key area for enhancing India’s energy security and economic diversification.

Way Forward

Joint ventures in defence manufacturing, AI, cybersecurity, and critical technologies.
Strategic alignment of Vision 2030 (Saudi) with Make in India opens vast potential.
Collaboration in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and tourism to further broaden ties.

With reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent state visit to Saudi Arabia and the strengthening of bilateral ties, consider the following statements:

The Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) created in 2019 is a key mechanism that guides India-Saudi relations, steering cooperation in various sectors such as defense, energy, and technology.
Saudi Arabia has committed to investing USD 100 billion in India, which is aimed at diversifying India’s energy sources and enhancing defense cooperation, including joint ventures in manufacturing defense equipment.
The creation of the Tourism and Cultural Cooperation Committee aims to enhance people-to-people ties but does not include any initiatives related to educational exchanges or collaborations between the two countries.
The Resistance Front (TRF), a terrorist group, emerged as a reaction to the strategic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, which has intensified following the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 4 only

Correct Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), established in 2019, is indeed a key bilateral framework that governs relations between India and Saudi Arabia. It focuses on fostering cooperation in a wide range of sectors, including defense, energy, technology, and economic development, and helps steer high-level bilateral engagements such as the Leaders’ Meeting between both nations.
Statement 2 is correct: Saudi Arabia has indeed reaffirmed its commitment to invest USD 100 billion in India. This investment is aimed at boosting various sectors, particularly energy (oil, LPG), defense, and infrastructure, including joint ventures in defense manufacturing and technology sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and critical technologies.
Statement 3 is incorrect: While the Tourism and Cultural Cooperation Committee was formed to enhance people-to-people ties, it does not exclude educational initiatives. In fact, such committees typically include cultural exchanges, educational collaborations, and opportunities for tourism promotion. Educational cooperation is often a key aspect of such partnerships, and the formation of such committees generally focuses on broadening diplomatic and cultural outreach between the two nations.
Statement 4 is incorrect: The Resistance Front (TRF) is a terrorist group that emerged in Jammu and Kashmir, and it has no direct connection with the India-Saudi Arabia bilateral relationship. The TRF’s rise is largely tied to regional politics, particularly following the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, and has no specific ties to the evolving India-Saudi strategic relations. Therefore, its creation and activities are independent of the diplomatic developments between India and Saudi Arabia.

India’s Aviation Industry: From Regional Runways to Global Routes

Syllabus: GS 3/Economy

India’s aviation industry is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by rapid expansion, policy modernization, and enhanced regional connectivity. This vibrant and competitive sector includes:
Scheduled air transport (domestic and international)
Non-scheduled operations (charters and air taxis)
Air cargo services (mail and goods transport)
Driven by rising demand and proactive government interventions, India now ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market, trailing only the United States and China.

Key Milestones

In 2024, India recorded over 5 lakh domestic air passengers in a single day—a historic high.
Domestic passenger traffic has grown at an annual rate of 10–12% over the past decade.
With 13–18% of women pilots, India ranks among the top countries globally for gender representation in aviation.
The DGCA aims for 25% female workforce participation in aviation roles by 2025.

Recent Reforms & Initiatives

Legislative Reforms
The Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025: Aligns India’s aircraft leasing laws with international standards, aiming to reduce leasing costs.
The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024: Replaces the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, bringing regulatory modernization to the sector.

Airport Infrastructure Expansion

Doubling of India’s Airport Network: Foundations for new terminals laid in cities like Varanasi, Agra, Darbhanga, and Bagdogra.
Greenfield Airports: Of the 21 approved, 12 are already operational, including Shirdi, Durgapur, Kushinagar, Itanagar, and more.
Upcoming Mega Projects: Jewar (Noida) and Navi Mumbai airports are slated for completion by FY 2025–26.
The government aims to develop 50 additional airports and connect 120 new destinations within the next decade.

Investment & Capital Allocation

Under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), over ₹91,000 crore has been allocated, with ₹82,600 crore already invested by November 2024.
Regional Connectivity: RCS–UDAN
Launched in 2016, UDAN has:
Operationalised 619 routes
Connected 88 airports
Enabled affordable air travel to previously underserved regions
In 2024, 102 new routes were launched—20 in the Northeast

Challenges & Bottlenecks

Despite impressive growth, India’s aviation sector faces several structural challenges:
Import Dependence: High reliance on foreign aircraft, parts, and systems undermines domestic capabilities.
Skilled Workforce Shortage: The growing demand for pilots, engineers, and aviation personnel outpaces current supply.
Low Export Share: India’s contribution to global aviation exports remains minimal.
Weak Arbitration Framework: Current mechanisms are inadequate for resolving complex aviation disputes, pushing cases to international hubs like London, Singapore, and Paris.

The Road Ahead

India is on track to emerge as a global aviation hub, leveraging its demographic edge, growing passenger base, and expanding infrastructure. However, long-term success hinges on:
Boosting indigenisation and value-added manufacturing in aircraft and components
Developing institutional strength in aviation arbitration, with a focus on neutrality and transparency
Encouraging sustained collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders
Prioritizing sustainability and inclusive connectivity through schemes like UDAN

Conclusion

India’s aviation journey is emblematic of its broader economic and infrastructural aspirations. With the right investments, regulatory alignment, and strategic vision, India is poised to redefine its skies—becoming not just a major market, but a global leader in aviation.

Consider the following statements about India’s aviation reforms:

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024 replaced a colonial-era law.
The Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 aims to align India’s leasing laws with global standards.
RCS–UDAN is focused on increasing international cargo connectivity.

Which of the above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam replaced the Aircraft Act of 1934.
Statement 2 is correct: The new leasing law reduces leasing costs.
Statement 3 is incorrect: RCS–UDAN focuses on domestic regional connectivity, not international cargo.

Genetically Modified (GM) Edible Oils For Self-Sufficiency

Syllabus: GS3/Agriculture

A member of NITI Aayog recently advocated for the adoption of genetically modified (GM) edible oils in India to improve domestic self-sufficiency, citing yield gains observed in the S. and China.
Importance of Edible Oils in India’s Economy
India is one of the largest producers of oilseeds

Major edible oils produced include:

Mustard
Groundnut
Soybean
Sunflower
Safflower
Coconut oil
India contributes 5–6% of global oilseed production.
Leading states: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.

Consumption vs Production Gap

Total domestic consumption (2023–24): ~5 million tonnes
India imports 55–60% of its edible oil needs.
Import Share by Oil Type (Approximate):
Palm oil: 37% (mostly from Indonesia and Malaysia)
Soybean oil: 20% (from Argentina and Brazil)
Mustard oil: 14%
Sunflower oil: 13% (mainly from Ukraine and Russia)

Health & Consumption Trends

Per capita annual consumption: ~24 kg
Far exceeds:
ICMR recommendation: 12 kg
WHO guideline: 13 kg
In comparison, per capita consumption was just 9 kg in the 1950s—driven higher by rising incomes, urbanization, and changing dietary habits.

Government Interventions

National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP)

Target: Expand cultivation from 7 lakh ha to 10 lakh ha by 2025–26
Support: Financial aid for planting material, irrigation, and farm inputs

National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds

Production goal: Raise output from 39 million tonnes to 70 million tonnes by 2030–31

Price Stabilization Fund

Buffers consumers from international price volatility
Allows procurement/distribution at controlled prices

Import Duty Adjustments

Import duties adjusted based on inflation and market trends

Support for Oilseed Farmers

NFSM-Oilseeds: Seed distribution, technical guidance, and extension services

Public Distribution System (PDS)

Subsidized edible oils distributed during periods of high retail inflation

The Case for GM Edible Oils in India

Enhancing Productivity

India’s soybean yield remains stagnant, while GM-adopting nations like the U.S. and China have seen significant increases.
Estimates suggest GM crops could increase yields by 70–80% or even double them.

Reducing Import Burden

With annual imports around 16 million tonnes, edible oils form a major component of India’s import bill.
GM technology could reduce import dependence, improving economic and food security.

Aligning with Global Trends

S. and China have adopted GM crops without reported adverse health impacts.
India could leverage this experience to shape a safe, science-backed regulatory framework for GM food crops.

Conclusion & Way Forward

India’s edible oil economy is at a critical crossroads. With soaring demand, a widening import gap, and stagnant yields, the adoption of GM technology—if handled responsibly—could revolutionize domestic production.
A multi-pronged approach involving:
Policy reforms
R&D in biotechnology
Farmer awareness
Robust safety and regulatory mechanisms

Which of the following government schemes directly aim to reduce India’s dependence on imported edible oils?

NMEO–Oil Palm
Price Stabilization Fund
NFSM–Oilseeds
PM-KUSUM

Select the correct code:

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1, 2 and 3 only
C) 2, 3 and 4 only
D) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: B) 1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

NMEO–Oil Palm and NFSM–Oilseeds aim to increase domestic production.
Price Stabilization Fund helps manage price volatility of imports.
PM-KUSUM relates to solar power in agriculture, not edible oil production.

Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Cities’ Resilience

Syllabus:Environment

With the rising challenges of flooding and climate change, Indian coastal cities such as Mangaluru and Chennai are turning to nature-based solutions (NbS) as a more resilient and sustainable response to growing urban environmental vulnerabilities.
A recent study by the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) highlights the critical role these solutions can play in future-proofing cities.

Definition of Nature-Based Solutions

Nature-based solutions (NbS) involve the use of natural systems and processes to address urban challenges.
These include methods such as wetland restoration, rooftop greening, and the installation of permeable pavements.
In addition to restoring ecosystems, these strategies offer practical benefits like flood control, enhancement of biodiversity, and improvements in air and water quality.

Urban Challenges in Chennai and Mangaluru

Both Chennai and Mangaluru face significant urban planning and environmental issues.
These include a sharp decline in green spaces, encroachment on natural water bodies, and an increase in extreme weather events such as intense rainfall and cyclones.
Traditional grey infrastructure, such as concrete stormwater drainage systems, has proven insufficient in managing these multifaceted problems.

Key Insights from the CSTEP Report

The CSTEP report evaluated 23 municipal wards in Chennai and four in Mangaluru. The findings revealed that rooftop greening could increase the area covered by NbS by approximately 76 percent in Chennai and 80 percent in Mangaluru.
Moreover, the implementation of permeable pavements could enhance stormwater drainage capacity by about five percent, reducing surface runoff and lowering the risk of urban flooding.

Economic Viability of Nature-Based Solutions

The study demonstrated that NbS are not only environmentally advantageous but also economically feasible.
In Chennai, an investment of approximately 2,203 crore rupees could result in annual savings of 505.31 crore rupees in avoided flood-related damages.
Similarly, in Mangaluru, a smaller investment of around 172.97 crore rupees could yield annual savings of 11.62 crore rupees.

Implementation Strategy

The report recommends a phased approach to implementing NbS across urban areas.
This includes launching pilot projects in vulnerable zones, conducting awareness campaigns to increase public support, encouraging community participation to enhance ownership, and integrating NbS into official urban planning policies.
It also emphasizes the need for dedicated funding for NbS through urban development programs.

Importance of Community Engagement

Community involvement is essential to the success of nature-based solutions. By engaging local residents, city authorities can promote a sense of ownership, tap into local knowledge, and ensure the long-term maintenance and sustainability of these projects.
Local governments are urged to lead by example by initiating scalable NbS projects and embedding them in broader climate resilience strategies.

Conclusion

As environmental risks intensify, nature-based solutions offer a viable path for cities to address urban flooding and ecological degradation.
Through strategic investment, updated planning frameworks, and strong community involvement, cities such as Chennai and Mangaluru have the potential to evolve into climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable urban spaces.

Which of the following urban challenges are commonly experienced by coastal cities such as Chennai and Mangaluru?

Decline in green cover
Encroachment of natural water bodies
Heavy snowfall occurrences
Increased intensity of cyclonic events

Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer: B. 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation:
Chennai and Mangaluru, being coastal cities, are increasingly facing urban stressors such as shrinking green spaces, loss of natural water systems, and more frequent and intense cyclones due to climate change. Snowfall is not a relevant concern in these regions due to their tropical climate.