14 & 15 march 2025 Current Affairs

PM’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0)

Syllabus: GS2/ Governace

The Ministry of Education has launched the third edition of the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0) to nurture young literary talent in India.

About the Scheme:

Aims to mentor aspiring authors under the age of 30, fostering a culture of reading, writing, and publishing.
Provides mentorship and publishing support to help Indian writers gain recognition on a global platform.
Focuses on three key themes:
Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building
Indian Knowledge System
Makers of Modern India (1950-2025)
Aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes building a knowledge-driven ecosystem.
National Book Trust (NBT), India, is responsible for implementing the scheme.

With reference to the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0), consider the following statements:

It is an initiative of the Ministry of Culture to promote regional literature and folk traditions.
The scheme aims to train young authors under the age of 35 to foster a reading and writing culture in India.
National Book Trust (NBT), India, is responsible for implementing the scheme.
The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on creating a knowledge-driven ecosystem.

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

Answer: (b) 3 and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: PM-YUVA 3.0 is launched by the Ministry of Education, not the Ministry of Culture.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The scheme is designed for authors under the age of 30, not 35.

Statement 3 is correct: National Book Trust (NBT), India is responsible for implementation.

Statement 4 is correct: The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting a knowledge-driven ecosystem.

Thalassemia

Syllabus: GS2-Health/GS3-Science and Tech

Context

The Andhra Pradesh government is considering increasing the monthly pension for thalassemia patients and extending financial support to those above the poverty line (APL) due to the high cost of treatment. Currently, patients below the poverty line (BPL) receive treatment under the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme.

What is Thalassemia?

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder inherited from parents, where the body fails to produce sufficient hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) responsible for carrying oxygen.
Each RBC contains 240 to 300 million hemoglobin molecules, and a deficiency results in severe anemia, requiring blood transfusions every 2-3 weeks for survival.

Symptoms of Thalassemia

Beyond anemia,
patients may experience
Weak bones
Delayed or stunted growth
Iron overload (from frequent transfusions)
Poor appetite
Enlarged spleen or live
Pale skin

Consider the following statements regarding Thalassemia:

Thalassemia is an acquired blood disorder caused by iron deficiency.
It leads to severe anemia due to the body’s inability to produce sufficient hemoglobin.
Blood transfusions are required only in the early stages of the disease.
Thalassemia is recognized as a benchmark disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

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: Thalassemia is not an acquired disorder; it is a genetic disorder inherited from parents.

Statement 2 is correct: The disorder prevents sufficient hemoglobin production, leading to severe anemia.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Blood transfusions are lifelong and not limited to early stages. Patients require transfusions every 2-3 weeks.

Statement 4 is correct: Thalassemia is classified as a benchmark disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Building Compassion into the Health-Care Structure

Syllabus: GS-II

Introduction

On February 7, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a significant report titled ‘Compassion and Primary Health Care,’ emphasizing compassion as a transformative force in global health. The report highlights the necessity of integrating compassion into health-care services to enhance patient outcomes and improve provider well-being. WHO’s Director-General underscored the importance of compassion in strengthening primary care and advancing quality health services.

The Benefits of Compassionate Health Care

Compassion in health care extends beyond ethical considerations, offering tangible benefits for both patients and medical professionals.

For Patients:
- Research from Stanford University’s Centre for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) shows that compassionate care accelerates recovery and reduces hospital stays.
- A Johns Hopkins Hospital study found that simple gestures—such as doctors spending an additional 40 seconds reassuring patients—significantly reduce anxiety and improve healing.
For Medical Professionals:
- Practicing compassion alleviates stress, enhances job satisfaction, and fosters stronger patient-provider relationships.
- Maintaining a balance between emotional involvement and professional detachment prevents burnout, allowing for sustained high-quality care.

Compassion vs. Empathy and Sympathy

Compassion is often misinterpreted as empathy, sympathy, or kindness, but these concepts have distinct meanings:

Sympathy: A temporary feeling of pity for someone’s suffering without deeper emotional involvement.
Empathy: Feeling and internalizing another person’s pain, which can lead to emotional exhaustion in medical professionals.
Compassion: A sustainable approach where health-care providers acknowledge suffering and act to alleviate it without becoming overwhelmed.

By fostering compassion rather than excessive empathy, health professionals can make rational, well-informed decisions while maintaining emotional stability.

The Role of Compassion in Mental Health Care

Mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, have reached alarming levels globally due to factors such as social isolation, economic uncertainty, and trauma. Unlike physical illnesses, mental health conditions are often stigmatized, discouraging individuals from seeking help.

Compassion in Mental Health Treatment:
- Provides a safe space where patients feel understood and valued.
- Encourages open communication, reducing feelings of shame and self-doubt.
- Helps individuals adhere to treatment plans and develop long-term coping mechanisms.

Compassion in Mental Health Recovery

Compassionate care is particularly vital for individuals who have endured trauma, abuse, or neglect. Survivors of war, violence, and human trafficking require not only medical intervention but also emotional support, patience, and human connection to facilitate recovery.

Case Study: The Transformation of Pradeep
- Pradeep, a rescued child suffering from severe trauma, was abandoned due to superstitious beliefs.
- At Bal Ashram, a rehabilitation center, caregivers adopted a compassionate approach, allowing him to heal at his own pace rather than forcing him to relive his past.
- Over time, with emotional support and a nurturing environment, he regained his ability to communicate and formed meaningful relationships.
- His recovery highlights the transformative power of compassion in mental health rehabilitation.

Strategies for Implementing Compassionate Health Care

Raising Awareness:
- Health-care institutions, policy-makers, and industry leaders must prioritize compassion as a core principle in decision-making.
Training Health-Care Providers:
- Medical professionals should undergo experiential learning and specialized training in compassionate care to integrate it effectively into practice.
Ensuring Equitable and Accessible Health Care:
- A truly compassionate system must be inclusive, ensuring high-quality treatment for individuals regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, or background.

Conclusion

Health care is not just about curing diseases; it is about promoting overall well-being. Compassion should be at the heart of medical practice, influencing patient interactions and health-care policies. By raising awareness, training professionals, and ensuring accessibility, the global medical community can create a people-centric health-care system rooted in compassion. Now is the time to embrace and globalize compassionate care, ensuring that every patient receives dignity, respect, and the quality treatment they deserve.

Consider the following statements regarding the WHO’s report on ‘Compassion and Primary Health Care’:

The report highlights the role of compassion as a transformative force in global health.
It primarily focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in primary health care to enhance patient outcomes.
The report underscores the importance of emotional involvement over professional detachment for health-care providers.
It was released by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2025.

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

Answer: (a) 1 and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The WHO report emphasizes the role of compassion as a transformative force in health care.

Statement 2 is incorrect: While technology and AI are being integrated into health care, this report does not primarily focus on AI but on the human aspect of compassionate care.

Statement 3 is incorrect: The report highlights that excessive emotional involvement can lead to burnout, and instead, it promotes a balance between compassion and professional detachment.

Statement 4 is correct: The report was released by WHO in 2025.

Regulating Ultra-Processed Foods - The Need for Stronger Policies

Syllabus: GS2

Introduction

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the urgent need to combat obesity, and the 2025 Economic Survey has proposed a ‘health tax’ on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to curb their consumption. With one in four Indian adults obese and one in four either diabetic or pre-diabetic (NFHS-5), addressing this health crisis requires bold policy interventions.

Challenges in Food Labelling and Advertising

Regulatory Gaps

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has struggled to enforce strict food labelling and advertising regulations since 2017.
Current rules are ambiguous and industry-friendly, failing to implement mandatory front-of-pack warning labels despite the rising health risks of UPFs.

Flaws in the Indian Nutrition Rating (INR) System

Introduced in September 2022, the INR system is modeled after Australia’s ineffective ‘health star’ system, which assigns 1 to 5 stars based on nutritional content.
Criticisms include:
- Creates a false health perception: Unhealthy foods appear healthier due to star ratings.
- Lack of scientific scrutiny: The FSSAI relied on an unexamined IIM Ahmedabad study to justify the rating system.
- Industry influence: Key decisions were shaped by food industry representatives, sidelining independent health experts.
Misclassification Examples:
- Soft drinks with high sugar may receive 2 stars instead of a warning label.
- Cornflakes (high in sugar and sodium) are rated 3 stars, misleading consumers about their health impact.
The FSSAI ignored its own 2021 proposal for mandatory ‘traffic light’ warning labels, favoring an industry-driven approach instead.

Ineffective Advertising Regulations

India has four different laws regulating HFSS (High Fat, Salt, Sugar) food advertisements, but they lack enforcement:
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Defines misleading ads but does not mandate nutritional disclosure.
- National Multisectoral Action Plan (2017): Proposed stricter HFSS ad rules, but no action was taken.
Loopholes in advertising laws:
- No requirement to disclose sugar, salt, or fat content in advertisements.
- Brands continue targeting children with misleading health claims.

Global Best Practices and Lessons for India

Chile’s ‘High In’ Warning Labels: A policy requiring clear warning labels on UPFs led to a 24% reduction in consumption.
World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines: Recommends bold front-of-pack warning labels to help consumers make informed choices.

The Way Forward: Urgent Policy Reforms

Implement Front-of-Pack Warning Labels
- Abolish the misleading INR system.
- Mandate clear “High in Sugar/Salt/Fat” labels on UPFs.
Define and Regulate UPFs and HFSS Foods
- Establish strict sugar, salt, and fat limits based on WHO and ICMR-NIN standards.
Strengthen Advertising Regulations
- Amend laws to ban misleading HFSS advertising.
- Harmonize regulations across multiple laws to prevent industry loopholes.
Launch Nationwide Awareness Campaigns
- Educate consumers in multiple languages on the dangers of UPFs.

Conclusion

The obesity crisis in India is a result of weak policy enforcement, not individual failure. Food industry lobbying has led to lenient labelling and advertising rules, allowing junk food companies to profit at the cost of public health. The Economic Survey has outlined a roadmap, but without decisive regulatory action, India’s health burden will continue to rise. Achieving PM Modi’s vision of a healthy India requires firm, science-backed policies rather than industry-driven compromises.

Consider the following statements regarding the proposed ‘health tax’ on Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs):

The Economic Survey 2025 recommends imposing a ‘health tax’ on UPFs to reduce their consumption.
UPFs have been scientifically linked to increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
The tax proposal is aligned with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations on public health policy.

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

Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

The Economic Survey 2025 has recommended a ‘health tax’ to curb UPF consumption (Statement 1 is correct).

Scientific studies have linked UPFs to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular risks (Statement 2 is correct).The WHO has consistently recommended fiscal policies like health taxes to reduce UPF consumption (Statement 3 is correct).

WHO Report on Maternal Mortality

Syllabus: Health

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a recent study shedding light on the urgent issue of maternal mortality.
According to the 2020 data, approximately 287,000 women lost their lives due to preventable causes associated with pregnancy and childbirth, translating to nearly 800 deaths per day.
This report underscores the critical gaps in maternal healthcare and calls for immediate global action.

Primary Causes of Maternal Mortality

The WHO study identifies haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders as the leading causes of maternal deaths:

Haemorrhage (27%) – The most common cause, often occurring during or immediately after childbirth.
Hypertensive disorders (16%) – Conditions such as pre-eclampsia significantly contribute to maternal deaths.
The prevalence of these causes varies across regions, with sub-Saharan Africa and Western Asia reporting the highest mortality rates.
Regional Disparities in Maternal Mortality

Maternal mortality rates show stark regional variations, revealing the unequal healthcare challenges across the world:

Western Asia & Northern Africa: Haemorrhage accounts for 29% of maternal deaths.
Sub-Saharan Africa: Haemorrhage contributes to 28% of fatalities.
Australia & New Zealand: A significantly lower rate of 15%.
Latin America & the Caribbean: Hypertensive disorders are more prevalent in this region.

These disparities highlight the urgent need for region-specific interventions and improved healthcare systems.

Postpartum Complications and Mortality Risks

A significant proportion of maternal deaths due to haemorrhage and sepsis occur during the postpartum period, which extends up to 42 days after childbirth. In 2020, at least 111 countries reported maternal deaths within this critical window, underscoring the necessity for enhanced postnatal care and continuous monitoring.

Global Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) and SDG Progress

The global Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) stood at 223 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020. Despite international efforts, this figure signals a stagnation in progress since the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. The WHO warns that at the current pace, the world is unlikely to meet the SDG target of reducing MMR to below 70 by 2030.

The Need for Strengthened Maternity Care

The study emphasizes the critical role of high-quality maternity care in reducing maternal deaths. Key priorities include:

Enhanced antenatal services to identify risks early.
Rapid emergency interventions to manage complications.
Stronger postnatal care to monitor and address health risks after childbirth.

WHO’s Global Roadmap for Maternal Health

Recognizing the urgent need for action, the WHO launched a global roadmap in 2024 to combat postpartum haemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal mortality. Developed in collaboration with over 130 global experts, this roadmap sets priorities for intervention and policy changes.
The WHO continues to advocate for high-quality, respectful, and accessible maternal healthcare services throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Addressing maternal mortality requires global commitment, strategic policies, and enhanced healthcare systems to ensure that no woman dies from preventable pregnancy-related causes.

Consider the following statements regarding the recent WHO report on maternal mortality:

The report states that approximately 500,000 women died from preventable pregnancy-related causes in 2020.
Haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders are the leading causes of maternal mortality.
The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target aims to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio (MMR) to below 100 per 100,000 live births by 2030.
The highest rates of maternal mortality are reported in sub-Saharan Africa and Western Asia.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

1 and 3 only
2 and 4 only
1, 2, and 3 only
2, 3, and 4 only

Answer: (b) 2 and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The WHO report states that 287,000 women died in 2020 due to preventable maternal causes, not 500,000.
Statement 2 is correct: Haemorrhage (27%) and hypertensive disorders (16%) are the leading causes of maternal mortality.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The SDG target aims to reduce MMR to below 70 per 100,000 live births, not 100.
Statement 4 is correct: The highest maternal mortality rates are observed in sub-Saharan Africa and Western Asia.

What is Geet Gawai?

Syllabus: Art and Culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Mauritius highlighted the deep-rooted cultural connections between India and the island nation.
A warm reception featuring the traditional Bhojpuri performance, Geet Gawai, underscored the enduring legacy of the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
More than just a musical tradition, Geet Gawai is a cherished cultural expression that reflects the identity and heritage of Indo-Mauritians.

What is Geet Gawai?

Geet Gawai is a traditional Bhojpuri musical art form, primarily performed by women during significant life events, especially weddings.
The performance typically begins with hymns invoking deities, followed by uplifting songs that celebrate joy and unity.
Recognizing its cultural significance, UNESCO inscribed Geet Gawai in its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2016.

Historical Origins

The roots of Geet Gawai in Mauritius date back to the migration of Indian indentured laborers. Between 1834 and the early 1900s, nearly 500,000 Indians, predominantly from Bhojpuri-speaking regions, were brought to Mauritius.
Despite hardships, they preserved their traditions, passing them down through generations. Geet Gawai remains a testament to their resilience and cultural pride.

Rituals and Community Bonding

Traditionally, Geet Gawai is an integral part of pre-wedding ceremonies, where women gather to prepare items like turmeric and rice while singing devotional and celebratory songs.
This practice strengthens familial bonds and fosters a sense of community among the Bhojpuri-speaking population.
Its oral transmission over generations ensures the continuity of this vibrant tradition.

Bhojpuri Language in Mauritius

Bhojpuri holds a significant place in Mauritius’ linguistic and cultural landscape.
As per the 2011 Census, around 3% of the Mauritian population speaks Bhojpuri. Beyond daily communication, the language plays a vital role in political campaigns, literature, and cultural expressions.
Recognizing its importance, the Mauritian government has introduced Bhojpuri in primary education to promote its preservation.

Mauritius – A “Mini India”

Often called “Mini India”, Mauritius embodies strong Indian cultural influences.
The Indo-Mauritian community actively participates in Indian festivals, wears traditional attire, and practices customs rooted in their ancestral heritage. This cultural vibrancy showcases India’s enduring impact on the island’s identity.

Government Efforts to Preserve Bhojpuri Culture

The Government of Mauritius has implemented several initiatives to safeguard Bhojpuri heritage:

The Bhojpuri-Speaking Union Act was enacted to encourage the use and development of the language.
The Bhojpuri Mahotsav, a festival dedicated to celebrating Bhojpuri culture, was introduced, though its progress was affected by the pandemic.

Conclusion

The Geet Gawai tradition and the continued presence of Bhojpuri in Mauritius serve as powerful reminders of India’s historical and cultural imprint on the island.
Through sustained efforts in language preservation and cultural initiatives, Mauritius continues to honor and celebrate its deep-rooted ties with India.

Consider the following statements regarding Geet Gawai:

It is a traditional Bhojpuri musical form performed primarily by men.
Geet Gawai is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
It is mainly performed during wedding ceremonies and significant life events.

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 because Geet Gawai is primarily performed by women, not men.

Statement 2 is correct as UNESCO inscribed Geet Gawai in its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2016.

Statement 3 is correct because Geet Gawai is mainly performed during weddings and other significant life events.

Genetically Engineered Non-Browning Bananas

Syllabus: S&T

Introduction: A UK-based biotech company, Tropic, has developed a genetically-engineered banana that resists browning. This innovation aims to reduce food waste and environmental impact, addressing the significant spoilage rate of bananas, which leads to nearly 50% of global banana crop wastage annually. By extending the fruit’s freshness, this advancement contributes to sustainability and efficient resource utilization.

The Science Behind Banana Ripening: Bananas undergo a natural ripening process, transitioning from green to yellow and eventually brown due to the presence of ethylene, a plant hormone. Even after harvest, bananas continue to produce ethylene, which activates genes responsible for the production of polyphenol oxidase (PPO)—an enzyme that reacts with oxygen, causing browning. Physical damage or bruising accelerates this process by increasing ethylene production, leading to faster spoilage.

Development of Non-Browning Bananas: Tropic’s genetic modification technique alters the banana’s PPO-producing gene, effectively silencing it. This does not stop the ripening process but prevents enzymatic browning, maintaining the fruit’s visual appeal for a longer duration. A similar approach has been applied to Arctic apples, which also resist browning. This breakthrough in fruit preservation technology could revolutionize post-harvest management, reducing waste and enhancing shelf life.

Environmental Impact of Food Waste: Food waste contributes significantly to global carbon emissions. In the UK alone, approximately 1.4 million edible bananas are discarded daily, adding to landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The introduction of non-browning bananas encourages prolonged consumption, potentially reducing food wastage. According to Tropic, widespread adoption of this technology could result in CO₂ reductions equivalent to removing 2 million cars from roads annually, marking a major step toward environmental sustainability.

Implications for the Future of Agriculture: The success of genetically-engineered bananas could pave the way for similar advancements in other crops. Scientists have already applied these techniques to tomatoes, melons, kiwifruits, and mushrooms, enhancing their shelf life and reducing spoilage. This innovation signals a new era in agricultural biotechnology, improving crop resilience, sustainability, and global food security.

Conclusion: Tropic’s non-browning banana represents a significant milestone in food science and sustainability. By tackling spoilage issues, this breakthrough contributes to waste reduction, environmental conservation, and efficient agricultural practices. As biotechnology advances, such innovations could play a crucial role in addressing global food security challenges while minimizing environmental impact.

Consider the following statements regarding Tropic’s genetically-engineered banana:

It prevents ripening entirely to enhance shelf life.
The modification targets the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme to reduce browning.
This technique has previously been applied to other fruits like Arctic apples.
The primary goal of this innovation is to increase banana production.

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

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation: The genetic modification does not stop ripening but prevents browning by silencing the PPO enzyme. The same technique has been used for Arctic apples. The goal is not to increase production but to reduce food waste and environmental impact.

PM Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Honour

Syllabus:IR

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean by Mauritius.
This prestigious recognition is the highest civilian honour bestowed by the island nation.
Modi is the first Indian to receive this honour, reflecting the deep-rooted historical and diplomatic ties between India and Mauritius.
The award was presented by Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who highlighted Modi’s

Contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

Significance of the Honour

The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean is the most distinguished civilian award in Mauritius.
Since Mauritius became a Republic, this honour has been conferred upon only five foreign dignitaries, including Nelson Mandela.
The award symbolizes mutual respect, cooperation, and the strong diplomatic relationship between India and Mauritius.

Modi’s Growing List of International Honours

This accolade from Mauritius marks Modi’s 21st international award, adding to a series of global recognitions for his leadership and diplomatic initiatives. Some of the notable awards he has received include:

Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud (Saudi Arabia, 2016)
State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan (Afghanistan, 2016)
Grand Collar of the State of Palestine (Palestine, 2018)
Order of Zayed (UAE, 2019)
Order of St. Andrew (Russia, 2019)
Order of the Nile (Egypt, 2023)
Order of the Druk Gyalpo (Bhutan, 2024)
Dominica Award of Honour (Dominica, 2024)

India-Mauritius Relations: A Historical Perspective

The ties between India and Mauritius date back to the 19th century, when Indian indentured labourers were brought to Mauritius. Over time, these historical connections have evolved into a robust economic, cultural, and strategic partnership.
India is one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners.
Both countries collaborate extensively in fields such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
Mauritius is a key player in India’s diplomatic outreach in the Indian Ocean region, with both nations working closely on maritime security and regional stability.

Conclusion

The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean is a testament to India-Mauritius friendship and underscores Modi’s global leadership. This honour further strengthens bilateral ties and reaffirms India’s role as a key partner in Mauritius’ development.

Which of the following statements about the “Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean” is correct?

(a) It is the highest military honour awarded by Mauritius.
(b) It has been awarded to more than 100 foreign dignitaries since Mauritius became a Republic.
(c) Narendra Modi is the first Indian recipient of this honour.
(d) It is an annual award given to prominent global leaders.

Answer: (c)