10 march 2025 Current Affairs

Golden Passport Program of Vanuatu

Context:

Former IPL chief Lalit Modi has renounced his Indian passport and obtained citizenship in Vanuatu, an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean that offers a “golden passport” program through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) scheme.

Vanuatu: Geographical & Strategic Overview

Location: Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 800 km west of Fiji and 1,770 km east of Australia.
Tectonic Activity: Lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for high seismic and volcanic activity, making it prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Golden Passport Program: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Scheme

Overview & Process

Vanuatu’s CBI program allows individuals to acquire citizenship through financial contributions.
Investment Requirement: Citizenship costs between $135,500 to $155,500, with additional provisions for a family of four.
Processing Time: Citizenship is typically granted within 30 to 60 days after submission of the application.

Key Benefits of Vanuatu Citizenship

Passport Strength: Ranked 51st in the Henley Passport Index, ahead of Saudi Arabia, China, India, and Indonesia.
Tax Haven Status: No personal income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax, making it attractive for high-net-worth individuals.
Economic Reliance: Offshore financial services form a crucial component of Vanuatu’s revenue generation strategy.

Scandals & Criticism

Security Concerns: Individuals with criminal backgrounds have been granted citizenship, raising concerns about the potential misuse of the program.
EU & UK Backdoor Entry Risk: The scheme is viewed as a loophole for accessing European markets, triggering scrutiny from global regulators.
Money Laundering Risks: Vanuatu’s lax taxation and financial regulations pose concerns over potential illicit financial activities.

With reference to Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, consider the following statements:

Vanuatu is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, known for its rich biodiversity.
The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program allows individuals to obtain Vanuatu’s citizenship by purchasing real estate in the country.
Vanuatu ranks higher than India in the Henley Passport Index and is considered a tax haven due to the absence of personal income tax.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 and 2 only
3 only
2 and 3 only
1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect. Vanuatu is located in the South Pacific Ocean, not the Indian Ocean.

Statement 2 is incorrect. Vanuatu’s CBI program does not require real estate purchases; instead, it grants citizenship in exchange for financial contributions to the government.

Statement 3 is correct. Vanuatu ranks 51st in the Henley Passport Index, higher than India, and has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making it a tax heaven.

6 Years of POSHAN Abhiyan

POSHAN Abhiyaan: A Comprehensive Approach to Combat Malnutrition

Launched in 2018, POSHAN Abhiyaan has now completed seven years, marking a significant milestone in India’s ongoing commitment to combat malnutrition and anemia, with a focus on improving the nutritional status of women and children.

Objectives of POSHAN Abhiyaan

The program adopts a multi-dimensional approach to address malnutrition and maternal health, with its primary objectives:

Reduce Stunting among children aged 0-6 years.
Mitigate Under-Nutrition (prevalence of underweight children aged 0-6 years).
Lower Anemia Prevalence among women and adolescent girls (15-49 years).
Decrease Low Birth Weight (LBW) by improving maternal and child healthcare services.

Key Strategic Pillars of POSHAN Abhiyaan

Access to Quality Services:
- Strengthen maternal and child health services through flagship schemes such as:
  - Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS)
  - National Health Mission (NHM)
  - Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
- Special focus on the first 1,000 days of life, crucial for early childhood development.
Cross-Sectoral Convergence:
- Integration with other national programs for a holistic approach to health and nutrition, such as:
  - Swachh Bharat Mission (sanitation and hygiene)
  - National Drinking Water Mission (ensuring safe drinking water access)
Leveraging Technology:
- Adoption of digital tools like the Poshan Tracker application for real-time monitoring and intervention, ensuring efficient service delivery and data tracking.
Jan Andolan (People’s Movement):
- Mobilizing community-driven initiatives to raise awareness and promote behavioral changes in nutrition and maternal health practices.

Mission Saksham Anganwadi & POSHAN 2.0

Launched in 2021, Mission Saksham Anganwadi & POSHAN 2.0 integrates various nutrition-focused initiatives under a unified framework. This includes:

Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP)
POSHAN Abhiyaan
Strengthened Anganwadi services, with an emphasis on:
- Infrastructure development
- Nutritional support
- Capacity-building of frontline workers

Funding Pattern

For States and UTs with Legislatures: 60:40 (Centre: State)
For Northeastern and Himalayan States: 90:10 (Centre: State)

Conclusion

POSHAN Abhiyaan continues to be a crucial initiative in India’s battle against malnutrition. By integrating policies, technology, and community engagement, it aims to build a healthier and more nourished future for the nation’s women and children.

Consider the following statements regarding POSHAN Abhiyaan:

It was launched in 2018 with the aim of addressing malnutrition among children and women.
It exclusively focuses on providing nutritional support to children below five years of age.
The initiative leverages digital tools like the Poshan Tracker for real-time monitoring.
It is implemented solely by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 and 4 only
c) 1, 2, and 3 only
d) 1, 3, and 4 only

Answer: a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:

POSHAN Abhiyaan is a multi-sectoral initiative that integrates efforts from different ministries, including the Ministry of Women and Child Development. It does not focus exclusively on children below five years but also addresses adolescent girls and maternal nutrition.

Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context: The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment successfully launched the first batch of the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme, aimed at fostering a citizen-centric approach in governance.

About the Programme

It is an interactive initiative designed to inspire, enlighten, and guide Central Government employees in adopting the Karmayogi Way, which prioritizes Seva-Bhav (a sense of service) and accountability.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Capacity Building Commission (CBC) to enhance competency-driven governance.

Capacity Building Commission (CBC)

Established: 2021
Structure: Three-member body supported by an internal Secretariat led by a Secretary.
Composition: Members are drawn from diverse backgrounds, including the private sector, academia, public sector, and civil society.
Objective: Standardizing and improving public sector learning and development initiatives across the country.

Mission Karmayogi

Launched: 2020
Type: National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB)
Objective: Developing a future-ready civil service with the right attitude, skills, and knowledge, in alignment with the vision of New India.
Governance: Anchored by an apex body, headed by the Prime Minister to ensure effective implementation.

Consider the following statements regarding the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme:

It is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
The programme emphasizes a citizen-centric approach to governance by fostering Seva-Bhav and accountability.
The Capacity Building Commission is responsible for implementing this programme.

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

Explanation:

Incorrect: The Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme is launched by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, not the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
Correct: The programme indeed emphasizes a citizen-centric approach to governance, fostering Seva-Bhav (spirit of service) and accountability among government employees.
Correct: The Capacity Building Commission (CBC), established in 2021, is responsible for implementing and overseeing the programme, aligning it with broader civil service capacity-building initiatives under Mission Karmayogi.

ASTRA MK-III Renamed Gandiva

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

In News: India’s latest and most advanced beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile, Astra MK-III, has been officially renamed Gandiva.

Key Features of Gandiva Missile

Extended Operational Range
Capable of striking aerial targets at 340 km when launched from an altitude of 20 km.
Effective up to 190 km when engaging enemy aircraft at 8 km altitude.
Cutting-Edge Propulsion System
Powered by a dual-fuel ducted ramjet engine, an advanced propulsion system that utilizes atmospheric oxygen for sustained high-speed flight.
Operates within a launch speed range of 0.8 to 2.2 Mach and can engage enemy aircraft moving at speeds between 0 and 3.6 Mach.

Advanced Target Neutralization

Designed to effectively engage and destroy a variety of aerial threats, including fighter jets, bombers, and military transport aircraft.
The Gandiva missile significantly enhances India’s aerial combat capabilities, offering a superior beyond-visual-range interception system to counter modern aerial threats.

Consider the following statements regarding the Gandiva missile (Astra MK-III):

It is India’s latest beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile.
It is powered by a solid-fuel rocket engine for sustained high-speed flight.
It has a maximum operational range of 340 km when launched from an altitude of 8 km.
It is capable of engaging enemy aircraft moving at speeds between 2.0 and 3.6 Mach.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (a) 1 and 4 only

Explanation:

Correct – The Gandiva missile is India’s latest beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile, enhancing aerial combat capabilities.

Incorrect – It is not powered by a solid-fuel rocket engine but by a dual-fuel ducted ramjet engine, which utilizes atmospheric oxygen for sustained high-speed flight.

Incorrect – The missile has a maximum operational range of 340 km when launched from an altitude of 20 km, not 8 km. At 8 km altitude, it has an effective range of 190 km.

Correct – It is capable of engaging enemy aircraft moving at speeds between 2.0 and 3.6 Mach.

TROPEX-2025

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

Context

The Theatre-Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX) 25 is being conducted over a span of three months, from January to March 2025.

About TROPEX 25

Largest Biennial Maritime Exercise organized by the Indian Navy, with significant participation from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Coast Guard.

Executed in multiple phases, both in Harbour and at Sea, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of operational preparedness.

Encompasses various dimensions of modern naval warfare, including:

Cyber and Electronic Warfare Operations
Live Weapon Firings during the Joint Work-Up Phase
Amphibious Exercise (AMPHEX) focusing on integrated land-sea operations
TROPEX 25 serves as a crucial platform for enhancing combat readiness, interoperability, and joint operational synergy among India’s armed forces.

Consider the following statements regarding TROPEX 25:

It is an annual maritime exercise conducted by the Indian Navy.
It involves participation from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and the Coast Guard.
The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, live weapon firings, and an amphibious exercise.

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:

TROPEX is a biennial (not annual) maritime exercise organized by the Indian Navy. It features participation from multiple branches of the armed forces and includes cyber warfare, live weapon firings, and amphibious operations.

Butterflies have been declining the last 20 years

Syllabus: GS 3/Environment

Context:

A recent study has revealed a 22% decline in butterfly populations across the United States since the year 2000, attributing the loss to insecticide use, climate change, and habitat destruction. Monarch butterflies, in particular, have experienced a drastic reduction in numbers.

About Butterflies:

Scientific Classification: Butterflies belong to the superfamily Papilionoidea within the insect order Lepidoptera, which also includes moths and skippers.
Global Distribution: They are found worldwide, thriving in diverse ecosystems.
Thermoregulation: Being cold-blooded, butterflies are unable to regulate their body temperature, making them highly sensitive to environmental conditions.
Life Cycle: Their life cycle consists of four distinct stages:
Egg
Larva (Caterpillar)
Pupa (Chrysalis)
Adult (Imago)

Ecological Importance of Butterflies:

Indicators of Environmental Health:

Butterflies serve as bio-indicators, reflecting changes in climate, pollution levels, and ecological balance.

Crucial to the Food Chain:

They provide sustenance for birds, bats, and insectivorous animals while also serving as hosts for parasitic species.

Vital Pollinators:

Ranking just after bees, wasps, and flies, butterflies significantly contribute to plant

reproduction and biodiversity.

Threats to Butterfly Populations:

Habitat Loss: Driven by urbanization, deforestation, and land-use changes.
Climate Change: Alters migration patterns and disrupts breeding cycles.
Pesticide Use: Insecticides and herbicides negatively impact butterfly populations by poisoning larvae and reducing host plant availability.

Interesting Facts:

Monarch Butterflies undertake an extraordinary migratory journey, covering distances between 1,200 and 2,800 miles, traveling from the northeastern U.S. and southeastern Canada to central Mexico.
Marbled Map Butterfly is endemic to the Eastern Ghats and Odisha, making it a unique species of ecological significance.
Common Birdwing Butterfly, listed under CITES, is frequently found in illegal wildlife trade due to its striking appearance.
Nymphalidae Family represents the most dominant butterfly group, comprising 58% of species, likely due to their adaptability to host plants and ecological conditions.

Consider the following statements regarding butterflies:

Butterflies belong to the order Hemiptera, which also includes moths and dragonflies.
They are cold-blooded organisms, making them highly sensitive to environmental changes.
Butterflies undergo incomplete metamorphosis, with only three stages in their life cycle.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:

Butterflies belong to the order Lepidoptera, not Hemiptera (which includes true bugs like cicadas and aphids). They undergo complete metamorphosis, consisting of four stages (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Modified Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme

Syllabus: GS 3/Environment /Economy

In News : The Government of India has introduced a revised Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme to strengthen Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs) and enhance ethanol production capacity.

About the Modified Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme

The scheme aims to convert existing sugarcane-based ethanol plants into multi-feedstock facilities, enabling them to utilize alternative sources such as maize and damaged food grains (DFG) for ethanol production.
It provides interest subvention at 6% per annum or 50% of the bank interest rate, whichever is lower, on loans extended to entrepreneurs.
The subvention is applicable for five years, including a one-year moratorium period.
The initiative is aligned with the Government’s Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme, which seeks to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy alternatives.

Need for the Scheme

To promote ethanol production from diverse feedstocks and reduce reliance on sugarcane.
To enhance financial viability of ethanol distilleries by lowering borrowing costs.
To support the government’s commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability.

Did You Know?

The Government of India has been implementing the Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme nationwide to promote biofuels.
The EBP Programme aims for 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025.
Various ethanol interest subvention schemes have been introduced from July 2018 to April 2022 to encourage ethanol production and reduce crude oil imports.

This scheme is a strategic step towards energy security, rural development, and environmental sustainability while supporting the economic interests of sugar mills and grain-based ethanol producers.

Consider the following statements regarding the Modified Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme:

The scheme allows sugar mills to produce ethanol only from sugarcane-based sources.
It provides an interest subvention of 6% per annum or 50% of the bank interest rate, whichever is lower.
The subvention period under this scheme is five years, including a one-year moratorium.

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:

The scheme allows ethanol production from multiple feedstocks, including maize and damaged food grains, not just sugarcane.

International Women’s Day

Syllabus: GS1/Society

About International Women’s Day (IWD):

Celebrated annually on March 8 to honor women’s contributions and advocate for gender equality.

Historical Background:

Declared as International Women’s Day by Vladimir Lenin in 1922 to recognize women’s role in the 1917 Russian Revolution.
Officially recognized by the United Nations in 1977.

Themes for 2025:

United Nations (UN) Theme: “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”
Official IWD Theme: “Accelerate Action.”

2025 Significance:

Marks 30 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a global framework for advancing women’s rights.

Legal Framework for Women Empowerment in India:

Constitutional Provisions:

Article 14: Ensures equality before the law.
Article 15: Prohibits discrimination based on sex.
Article 51A(e): Encourages citizens to renounce practices that violate women’s dignity.
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP):
Article 39: Advocates equal livelihood opportunities and equal pay.
Article 42: Ensures maternity relief.

Challenges Faced by Women in India:

Gender Discrimination: Social and cultural biases limiting opportunities.
Limited Access to Education: Especially in rural areas, restricting future prospects.
Economic Inequality: Wage disparity, job limitations, and financial dependence.
Safety Concerns: High rates of gender-based violence, harassment, and trafficking.
Health & Reproductive Rights: Limited access to quality healthcare and maternal services.
Child Marriage: Affects health, education, and independence.
Political Underrepresentation: Low participation in decision-making roles.
Social Norms & Expectations: Rigid gender roles restricting freedom.
Workplace Harassment: Insufficient protective measures.

India’s Commitment to International Women’s Rights:

India is a signatory to key global treaties and agreements, including:

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR, 1966)
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW, 1979)
Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995)
United Nations Convention Against Corruption (2003)
Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development

Key Achievements in Women Empowerment in India:

Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023: Reserves one-third of seats for women in Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and Delhi Assembly.
National Sex Ratio: Improved to 1020 females per 1000 males (NFHS-5).
Maternity Leave: Extended to 26 weeks.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana:2 crore accounts opened.
PM Awas Yojana Gramin: 72% of houses are owned by women.
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): Reduced to 97 per lakh live births (2018-20) from 130 per lakh (2014-16).
Abolition of Triple Talaq: Strengthening legal rights for Muslim women.

Women in Armed Forces:

Permanent commission granted in 12 Arms and Services.
Agniveer recruitment for women in all three defense services.
Women in STEM: 43% of STEM graduates in India are women—the highest in the world.

Government Initiatives for Women Empowerment:

Mission Shakti (2021-2025): Focuses on women’s welfare, safety, and empowerment.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao: Aims to improve female child survival and education.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: Encourages savings for girl children.
Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram: Ensures free maternity healthcare.
PM Matru Vandana Yojana: Provides financial support for pregnant women.
Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0: Focuses on improving women’s health through better nutrition.
WISE-KIRAN (Women in Science & Engineering): Supported 1,962 women scientists (2018-2023).
Nari Shakti Puraskar: Recognizes outstanding contributions of women.
Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: Extends paid maternity leave to 26 weeks.

This comprehensive framework ensures a holistic approach to gender equality and women’s empowerment in India.

Consider the following statements regarding International Women’s Day (IWD):

It was first declared as International Women’s Day by the United Nations in 1922.
The year 2025 marks 30 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
The official United Nations (UN) theme for IWD 2025 is “Accelerate Action.”

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: b) 2 only

Explanation:

Vladimir Lenin, not the UN, declared March 8 as International Women’s Day in 1922.The UN theme for IWD 2025 is “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, while “Accelerate Action.” is the official IWD theme.

Seagrass Conservation Key to Global Biodiversity

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment, Conservation

Context

A recent review published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment highlights the alarming decline of seagrass ecosystems globally, with losses occurring at a rate of 1-2% per year due to human activities.

About Seagrasses

Seagrasses are submerged flowering plants that form dense underwater meadows and have evolved from terrestrial plants to adapt to marine environments.
Unlike seaweed (algae), seagrasses possess roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seeds, enabling them to reproduce and sustain ecosystems.

Importance of Seagrass Ecosystems

Carbon Sequestration & Climate Action
Often referred to as the “lungs of the sea”, seagrasses sequester carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, making them crucial in mitigating climate change.

Biodiversity and Marine Life Protection

They serve as nurseries for fish species and provide shelter for endangered marine species, supporting ocean biodiversity.

Coastal Protection : Seagrasses act as natural barriers, protecting coastal areas from storms, erosion, and disaster risks.

Economic Significance

Seagrass meadows provide an estimated economic value of $6.4 trillion annually by sustaining fisheries and boosting coastal tourism.
Seagrass Distribution in India

India, with a recalculated coastline of 11,098 km (2023-24), has extensive seagrass meadows in:

Gulf of Mannar
Palk Bay
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Lakshadweep Islands
Gulf of Kutch
Threats to Seagrass Ecosystems
Anthropogenic Activities – Urbanization, pollution, and agricultural runoff.
Weak Law Enforcement – Limited implementation of policies protecting coastal biodiversity.
Biodiversity Loss – Unregulated fishing, boating, and habitat destruction leading to ecosystem degradation.

Global & Indian Restoration Efforts

Global Initiatives

Seagrass Watch – A citizen science program training volunteers, NGOs, and research organizations to monitor and conserve seagrass habitats worldwide.
Blue Carbon Initiative – Focuses on carbon sequestration in coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses.

Indian Conservation Initiatives

National Policy on Marine Fisheries (2017) – Recognizes seagrass meadows as essential coastal ecosystems alongside mangroves and coral reefs.
Climate Resilience Project – Implemented in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha, supported by the Global Climate Fund (GCF).
Seagrass Restoration – Ongoing efforts in Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay to restore degraded seagrass meadows.

Consider the following statements regarding seagrasses:

Seagrasses are a type of algae that lack roots, stems, and flowers.
They sequester carbon at a rate much slower than tropical rainforests.
Seagrass meadows act as natural barriers, protecting coastal areas from erosion and storms.

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

Explanation:

Incorrect – Seagrasses are not algae; they are flowering plants that evolved from terrestrial plants and adapted to marine environments. Unlike algae, seagrasses have roots, stems, and leaves, and they can produce flowers and seeds.
Incorrect – Seagrasses sequester carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, making them one of the most efficient carbon sinks in the world. This ability helps mitigate climate change by reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Correct – Seagrass meadows act as natural barriers, reducing the impact of coastal erosion and storms. Their dense root systems stabilize the seabed, preventing sediment displacement, and their presence helps dissipate wave energy, protecting coastal communities from storm surges.