Concerns of Rising of ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Culture
Syllabus: GS1/Society
Context
- The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns about the growing erosion of traditional family values, noting the rise of a ‘1 person, 1 family’ culture.
- This shift contrasts with India’s deep-rooted philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—”the world is one family.”
Understanding Family
- A family is a social unit based on common residence, economic cooperation, and reproduction. It plays a fundamental role in shaping an individual’s identity, values, and behavior.
In India, the family has traditionally been more than a kinship unit—it has been a moral, emotional, and economic pillar, fostering interpersonal bonds, generational wisdom, and social discipline.
Rise of the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Culture
- India’s historically strong joint family system is undergoing a transformation. More individuals are opting to live alone or in nuclear family setups, reflecting evolving social dynamics and personal aspirations.
This trend is particularly visible in urban centers, where young professionals, entrepreneurs, and even elderly individuals are choosing solitude or smaller family structures over large, interdependent households.
Factors Driving This Shift
Urbanization and Economic Independence
- Migration to metropolitan cities for career growth has led to a preference for independent living.
- Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi report a surge in single-person households.
Changing Aspirations and Individualism
- The focus on personal growth, career advancement, and self-development has led to a shift from collective family responsibilities to individual fulfillment.
- Traditional family hierarchies are increasingly being challenged.
Delayed Marriages and Evolving Relationship Norms
- Marriage is being postponed, and alternative relationship models such as live-in arrangements and single parenting are gaining acceptance.
- India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has dropped to 2.0, below the replacement level, signaling changing family dynamics.
Economic Pressures
- The rising cost of living and demanding work schedules make joint family living impractical in urban areas.
Western Influence
- Exposure to global lifestyles through education, employment, and social media has influenced family choices in India.
Declining Moral and Ethical Values
- Increased materialism and individualism have diminished virtues like empathy, respect, and sacrifice—values crucial for strong family ties.
Challenges Posed by the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Trend
- Mental Health Issues – Loneliness and social isolation, especially among older adults and remote workers.
- Financial Burdens – Living alone increases expenses, making financial management more challenging.
- Weakened Family Bonds – Reduced intergenerational relationships and a declining sense of collective responsibility.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s concerns highlight the need for society to introspect on the changing nature of family relationships. While legal interventions can address disputes, fostering empathy, respect, and unity within families is crucial to preserving India’s social fabric. Balancing modern aspirations with traditional values can help sustain strong familial ties while adapting to evolving societal needs.
In the long run, the persistence of the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ trend is most likely to impact which of the following policy areas in India?
- Urban housing and real estate policies
2. Social security and pension reforms
3. Employment and labor market strategies
4. Fertilizer subsidies for agricultural expansion
(a) 1, 2, and 3 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only
Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Urban housing policies (1) will be impacted as demand for compact, affordable homes increases.
- Social security and pension systems (2) will be strained due to a rising elderly population without strong family support.
- Employment strategies (3) must adapt to a mobile, independent workforce with a preference for flexible jobs.
- However, fertilizer subsidies (4) are unrelated, as the decline in joint families is an urban phenomenon, not tied to agricultural policy.
Union Cabinet Approved Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme
Syllabus: GS3/Economy
- India’s Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme: Strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat
Context:
- The Union Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, has approved the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme, allocating ₹22,919 crore to strengthen India’s electronics supply chain and reduce import dependency.
Objectives of the Scheme:
- Establish a robust component ecosystem by attracting global and domestic investments.
- Enhance Domestic Value Addition (DVA) through capacity and capability
- Integrate Indian manufacturers into Global Value Chains (GVCs).
- Expected Outcomes:
- Attract investments worth ₹59,350 crore.
- Facilitate electronic production worth ₹4,56,500 crore.
- Generate 91,600 direct jobs along with numerous indirect employment opportunities.
- Duration: Six years, with a one-year gestation period.
India’s Electronics Sector:
- The electronics industry is one of the most rapidly expanding and globally traded sectors, with strategic and economic importance due to its cross-sectoral influence.
Key Growth Indicators:
- Domestic Production: Grew from ₹1.90 lakh crore in 2014-15 to ₹9.52 lakh crore in 2023-24, achieving a CAGR of over 17%.
- Exports: Increased from ₹0.38 lakh crore in 2014-15 to ₹2.41 lakh crore in 2023-24, registering a CAGR of 20%.
- Mobile Manufacturing: India is the second-largest mobile phone producer globally.
- Semiconductors: The sector has gained momentum, with ₹1.52 lakh crore invested in five major semiconductor projects.
- Future Projection: India’s electronics production is projected to reach USD 300 billion by 2026.
Challenges in the Electronics Manufacturing Sector:
- Import Dependency: Heavy reliance on imported components, especially semiconductors, increases costs and supply chain risks.
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Lack of world-class manufacturing facilities and efficient logistics hampers large-scale production.
- Shortage of Skilled Workforce: Limited talent pool for high-end manufacturing and R&D.
- Capital-Intensive Industry: Establishing semiconductor and electronics fabs requires high capital investment, deterring new entrants.
- Technological Gaps: Limited cutting-edge innovation in key areas of the electronic value chain.
- Global Competition: Intense rivalry with established electronics manufacturing hubs such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Vietnam.
Key Government Initiatives for Electronics Manufacturing:
- Make in India (2014)
- Aimed at transforming India into a global design and manufacturing hub.
- Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP) (2017)
- Focused on increasing domestic value addition in mobile phone and component manufacturing.
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme (2020)
- Incentives: 3% to 6% on incremental sales for eligible companies.
- Objective: Boost domestic manufacturing in mobile phones, electronic components, and semiconductor packaging.
- Duration: 5 years.
- Semicon India Program (2021)
- Financial Outlay: ₹76,000 crore.
- Objective: Develop a domestic semiconductor industry through incentives and global partnerships.
- Milestone: India’s first indigenous semiconductor chip is set for production in 2025.
Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS)
- Incentive: 25% capital expenditure support for specific electronic goods across the downstream value chain.
- Increased Budget Allocation
- 2024-25: ₹5,747 crore → 2025-26: ₹8,885 crore, indicating a strong government commitment to industrial growth.
Conclusion:
- India’s emergence as a global electronics manufacturing hub is a testament to the success of initiatives like Make in India. With aggressive policy support, investment incentives, and a growing ecosystem, India aims to achieve USD 300 billion in electronics production by 2026, establishing itself as a key player in the global electronics and semiconductor industries.
Consider the following statements regarding India’s Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme:
- It aims to reduce India’s dependence on semiconductor imports by offering production-linked incentives to chip manufacturers.
- The scheme has a total outlay of ₹22,919 crore with a tenure of six years.
- One of its key objectives is to attract investments and integrate Indian firms into global value chains.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: The scheme does not specifically offer production-linked incentives (PLI) for semiconductors. It focuses on electronics components to build a robust supply chain. Semiconductors fall under the Semicon India Program (₹76,000 crore), which is separate from this scheme.
- Statement 2 is correct: The scheme has an outlay of ₹22,919 crore and will run for six years with a one-year gestation period.
- Statement 3 is correct: It aims to attract global/domestic investment and integrate Indian firms into global value chains (GVCs).
National Gene Bank
Syllabus: GS3/ S&T
Context:
- The Central Government has announced the establishment of a Second National Gene Bank (NGB) as part of the Union Budget 2025-26 under the theme “Investing in Innovations.”
What is a Gene Bank?
- A Gene Bank is a specialized bio-repository that preserves the genetic material of plants, animals, and microorganisms.
- It plays a crucial role in safeguarding crop germplasm, ensuring their long-term viability for agricultural sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
Types of Gene Banks and Their Functions:
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Need for the Second National Gene Bank:
- Enhanced Genetic Conservation: The new NGB aims to conserve 10 lakh crop germplasm, strengthening India’s role in global biodiversity preservation.
- Agricultural Sustainability: Preserved genetic resources will support crop improvement programs and climate-resilient agriculture.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Advanced facilities will expand India’s conservation capacity and ensure the safe storage of genetic materials.
- Food Security & Climate Resilience: Protecting genetic diversity is essential for developing stress-resistant crops and ensuring future food security.
- The First National Gene Bank is located at the ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi.
- It is the second-largest gene bank in the world, preserving 4,71,561 accessions from 2,157 species.
- The Second NGB will further strengthen India’s genetic resource conservation, ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security for future generations.
Consider the following statements regarding the newly announced Second National Gene Bank (NGB) in India:
- It will be the largest gene bank in the world, surpassing the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.
- The primary objective of the new NGB is to conserve 10 lakh crop germplasm.
- Unlike the first NGB, the second one will focus only on cryogenic preservation of plant genetic material.
- The new NGB will be established under the ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 2, 3, and 4 only
Answer: (b) 2 and 4 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway remains the largest gene bank in the world. India’s second NGB will not surpass it but will expand national conservation efforts.
Statement 2 is correct: The government has set a target to conserve 10 lakh crop germplasm for future agricultural resilience.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The new NGB will not focus solely on cryogenic preservation but will include multiple types of storage like seed banks, DNA banks, and in vitro banks.
Statement 4 is correct: The first NGB is already housed under ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi, and the new one will also function under its supervision.
Tonga
Syllabus:Geograpy
About Tonga
- Official Name: Kingdom of Tonga (also known as the Friendly Islands)
- Location: South Pacific Ocean, south of Samoa, east of Fiji, and just north of the Tropic of Capricorn
- Archipelago: Consists of 169 islands, of which only 36 are inhabited
Geography:
- Western islands – Volcanic, elevated, and home to four active volcanoes
- Eastern islands – Coral-based, low-lying
- Major islands: Tongatapu, Ha’apai, and Vava’u (Tongatapu is the most populated)
- Capital: Nuku‘alofa (located on Tongatapu)
Geological Activity:
- Situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to frequent volcanic activity and earthquakes
- Political System & History
- Former British Protectorate – Gained full independence in 1970 but was never formally colonized
Government: Constitutional monarchy
- Memberships: Commonwealth, United Nations
- Language & Economy
- Official Languages: Tongan, English
- Currency: Tongan Paʻanga (TOP)
Economy:
- Lacks strategic and mineral resources
- Depends on agriculture, fishing, and remittances from Tongans abroad
Consider the following statements regarding the Kingdom of Tonga:
- Tonga is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean with all its islands of volcanic origin.
- The country lies entirely north of the Tropic of Capricorn.
- Tonga was a British colony until it gained independence in 1970.
- Tonga is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to frequent geological activity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 and 4 only
c) 4 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: c) 4 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect – Tonga consists of both volcanic and coral islands. The western islands are volcanic, while the eastern islands are coral-based and low-lying.
Statement 2 is incorrect – Tonga is partly south of the Tropic of Capricorn.
Statement 3 is incorrect – Although Tonga was a British protectorate, it was never formally colonized. It gained full independence in 1970.
Statement 4 is correct – Tonga lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary
Syllabus: Environment
Recent Survey Findings
A faunal survey conducted by the Forest Department has identified 63 new species of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies), butterflies, and birds in the Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), reaffirming its ecological richness.
About Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary
Location:
- Situated in Malappuram district, Kerala
- Spans 97 sq. km on the western slopes of the Nilgiri Hills
Ecological Significance:
- Forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR), which is recognized under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme
Bordering Protected Areas:
- Mukurthi National Park (Tamil Nadu) to the east
- Silent Valley National Park (Kerala) to the south
Hydrography:
- The sanctuary derives its name from the Karimpuzha River, a tributary of the Chaliyar River
- Presence of perennial water sources supports a diverse range of species
Topography:
- Elevation ranges from 40 meters to 2,550 meters, creating a sharp gradient that fosters unique biodiversity
- Encompasses steep hills, deep valleys, marshy lands, grasslands, shola forests, and montane ecosystems
- The landscape merges with the adjacent regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Biodiversity of Karimpuzha WLS
Flora:
The only forest stretch in Kerala that hosts all seven of the state’s forest types, including:
- Evergreen Rainforest
- Semi-evergreen Forest
- Moist Deciduous Forest
- Sub-tropical Hill Forest
- Sub-tropical Savannah
- Montane Wet Temperate Forest
- Montane Wet Grasslands
Fauna:
Endemic and threatened species of the Western Ghats, including:
- Nilgiri Tahr (State Animal of Tamil Nadu)
- Lion-tailed Macaque
- Slender Loris
- Tiger
- Gaur (Indian Bison)
Indigenous Communities:
- Cholanaikans, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), reside within the sanctuary.
- Often referred to as the “Cavemen of Kerala”, they lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle, primarily dependent on forest resources.
Conclusion
- Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in conservation, given its rich biodiversity, diverse forest ecosystems, and presence of endemic and threatened species.
- With its integration into the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the sanctuary continues to be a key ecological corridor for wildlife in the Western Ghats.
Consider the following statements regarding Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS):
- It is the only wildlife sanctuary in Kerala that is entirely composed of evergreen rainforest.
- It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme.
- The Cholanaikan tribe, classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), resides within its boundaries.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Karimpuzha WLS has seven distinct forest types, including evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen forest, moist deciduous forest, and montane wet grasslands, making it not exclusively evergreen.
- Statement 2 is correct: It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme.
- Statement 3 is correct: The Cholanaikan tribe, classified as a PVTG, resides inside the sanctuary.
Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project
Syllabus: Geography
- The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Private Limited has successfully completed the trial run for Unit 2 (200 MW) of the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project in Himachal Pradesh.
About Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project
- Location: Sainj, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
- Project Type: Run-of-the-river hydroelectric project
- River System: Harnesses the lower reaches of the Parbati River, a major tributary of the Beas River
- Dam Site: Village Pulga in Parbati Valley
- Water Diversion: Through a 52 km long head race tunnel
- Powerhouse Location: Village Suind in Sainj Valley
- Total Installed Capacity: 800 MW (Four units of 200 MW each)
- Expected Annual Generation: 3,074 million units (MU) of electricity
- Ownership: 100% owned by NHPC
Project Timeline and Challenges
Initiation Year: 2003
Original Commissioning Target: 2010
Delays Due To:
- Complex tunneling issues
- Water and silt seepage
- Flash floods and cloudbursts
Adverse geological conditions
Upon full commissioning, Parbati-II will be a significant contributor to India’s renewable energy capacity, helping meet the growing power demand while reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
Which of the following statements regarding the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project is/are correct?
- It is a storage-based hydroelectric project aimed at flood control and irrigation in the lower reaches of the Beas River.
- The project involves the construction of a gravity dam in the Parbati Valley to divert water through a head race tunnel to the power station in the Sainj Valley.
- The project has faced delays due to tunneling issues, flash floods, and adverse geological conditions.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Parbati-II is a run-of-the-river project, not a storage-based project. Unlike storage-based projects, it does not involve large reservoirs for flood control or irrigation.
- Statement 2 is correct: The project involves a concrete gravity dam at Pulga in Parbati Valley and a 31.52 km long head race tunnel to the powerhouse in Sainj Valley.
- Statement 3 is correct: The project faced multiple delays due to tunneling difficulties, water seepage, flash floods, and adverse geological conditions.
INIOCHOS-25
Syllabus: Defence
About INIOCHOS
- INIOCHOS is a biennial multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force of Greece.
- It serves as a premier platform for participating air forces to enhance their combat readiness, tactical proficiency, and interoperability in simulated modern warfare scenarios.
INIOCHOS-25: Key Highlights
Location: Andravida Air Base, Elis, Greece
Objective: Conduct multi-domain operations by integrating air and surface assets from various countries under realistic, high-intensity combat scenarios.
Indian Participation: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will field a contingent comprising:
- Su-30 MKI fighter jets
- IL-78 air-to-air refueling aircraft
- C-17 strategic transport aircraft
- Participating Countries & Aircraft
Strategic Importance
- Strengthens joint operations capabilities by allowing IAF pilots to engage in multi-national combat scenarios.
- Enhances tactical coordination and combat interoperability with advanced air forces such as the US, France, and Israel.
- Facilitates exchange of operational best practices in executing complex air warfare strategies.
- By participating in INIOCHOS-25, the Indian Air Force aims to refine its air combat skills, bolster defense cooperation, and reinforce India’s strategic presence in global military exercises.
Consider the following statements regarding the INIOCHOS exercise:
- It is an annual multinational air combat exercise hosted by the United States at Nellis Air Force Base.
- The exercise involves only NATO member states.
- The Indian Air Force is participating in the 2025 edition with Su-30 MKI fighter jets.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 3 only
(D) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (C) 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: INIOCHOS is a biennial exercise, not annual, and is hosted by Greece, not the United States.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The exercise is not limited to NATO countries; it includes non-NATO participants like India, Israel, and the UAE.
Statement 3 is correct: India is participating in INIOCHOS-25 with Su-30 MKI, IL-78, and C-17 aircraft.
