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India Pitch for UNSC Reforms Syllabus: GS2/International Organization India Calls for UNSC Reform to Ensure Lasting Peace   Security of Peacekeepers UN peacekeepers today face a multitude of threats, including non-state actors, armed groups, and terrorists. India emphasizes the need for enhanced safety measures and security protocols for peacekeepers. Additionally, India advocates for accountability and justice in cases of crimes committed against peacekeeping forces.   Modernization of Peacekeeping Operations Recognizing the evolving nature of peacekeeping, India calls for the integration of advanced surveillance, communication, and data analytics in peacekeeping missions. India’s Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) offers specialized training programs to equip peacekeepers with modern tools and strategies to meet contemporary challenges effectively.   Funding for Peacekeeping Missions India underscores the need for well-funded peacekeeping missions. The resources allocated to these missions should be commensurate with their mandates to ensure effective execution and operational success.   Inclusion in Mandate Formation India advocates for the inclusion of troop-contributing countries in the process of formulating mandates. This approach will enable better adaptation of peacekeeping operations to new realities and ensure that the strategies align with ground-level challenges. About the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) The UNSC is one of the principal organs of the United Nations, established in 1945 under the UN Charter to maintain international peace and security. It comprises 15 member states, including five permanent members with veto power—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—along with ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. The UNSC headquarters is located in New York City. Need for UNSC Reforms Current Composition and Representation The present composition of the UNSC is marked by under-representation and lack of adequate representation of key global regions.   Inability to Address Conflicts The current structure of the Council has proven ineffective in addressing significant global conflicts, thereby undermining its credibility and primary mandate of upholding international peace and security.   Changing Global Order Since its inception in 1945, the world order has undergone significant transformations. These new geopolitical realities must be reflected in the permanent membership of the UNSC.   Issue of Veto Power Only the five permanent members hold veto power, often using it to stall resolutions addressing global crises, such as those in Ukraine and Gaza. The ten non-permanent members, despite being part of the Council, lack veto authority, limiting their influence in decision-making.   Legitimacy Concerns The concentration of power among the five permanent members creates a perception of inequity, diminishing the legitimacy and effectiveness of the UNSC in addressing contemporary security challenges.   Why India Deserves Permanent Membership in the UNSC Demographic and Global Representation India accounts for approximately 18% of the world’s population, making its inclusion in global decision-making bodies like the UNSC a matter of proportional representation.   Economic Strength India is one of the world’s largest economies, with a significant impact on global stability and development. Its economic contributions align with the UNSC’s objectives of maintaining international peace and security.   Commitment to Peacekeeping India has consistently been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its strong commitment to global peace and security. Geopolitical Influence India’s strategic location in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region positions it as a crucial player in addressing global security challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and maritime security.   Advocacy for Democratic Values As the world’s largest democracy, India upholds values of pluralism, tolerance, and inclusivity, which align with the core principles of the UN.   Global Support India enjoys extensive support from numerous UN member states, including influential nations across different regions, underscoring its potential contribution to strengthening the UNSC’s role in global crisis management.   Challenges in Implementing UNSC Reforms Veto Power of Permanent Members Any proposed reforms require the approval of all five permanent members, who are often reluctant to support changes that might reduce their influence. Geopolitical and Regional Rivalries Regional tensions and geopolitical rivalries further complicate efforts to bring about UNSC reforms.   Complexity of the Reform Process Reforming the UNSC necessitates an amendment to the UN Charter, which requires a complex and lengthy process involving ratification by a significant number of member states. Opposition from China China, as a permanent UNSC member, continues to oppose India’s bid for permanent membership, hindering India’s inclusion in the Council. Way Forward Both permanent and non-permanent membership should reflect the present-day global landscape rather than the post-World War II order. Reforms in the UNSC are imperative to maintain its relevance, legitimacy, and effectiveness in addressing contemporary security challenges. However, achieving consensus among UN member states remains a formidable and ongoing process. Consider the following arguments against the UNSC’s current veto power structure: It enables any one of the P5 members to block international consensus. It has been used to shield countries from international scrutiny over human rights violations. It allows non-permanent members to influence decisions through alliances with P5 nations. 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: (a) 1 and 2 only Explanation: The veto power enables P5 members to block resolutions, even if the majority supports them (statement 1 is correct). It has been used to prevent action against allies accused of human rights violations (statement 2 is correct). However, non-permanent members do not have veto power and cannot directly influence decisions (statement 3 is incorrect). PM-SHRI Scheme Syllabus: Govt Policies A Parliamentary Standing Committee has urged the Education Ministry to release over ₹4,000 crore in pending Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds for Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal. The funds have been withheld due to these st ates not signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the PM SHRI scheme. The panel emphasized that SSA predates PM SHRI and plays a crucial role in enforcing the Right to Education (RTE) Act.                     Understanding the PM SHRI Scheme PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched under NEP

World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector Syllabus: Georaphy/Economy                      Why in News? On May 31, 2023, the Government approved the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector, set to be implemented as a Pilot Project. This initiative aims to develop agricultural infrastructure at the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) level, including:   Construction of godowns Establishment of custom hiring centers Setting up of processing units   The project integrates various existing Government of India (GoI) schemes, such as: Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure Scheme (AMI) Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME)   Progress of the Pilot Project Under the Pilot Project, godowns have been constructed in 11 PACS across 11 States, with a total storage capacity of 9,750 Metric Tons (MT). State-wise Details of Completed Godowns S.No State District Name of PACS Capacity (MT) 1. Maharashtra Amravati Neripanglai Vividh Karyakari Sahakari Sanstha 3,000 2. Uttar Pradesh Mirzapur Bahudeshiya Prathamik Grameen Sahakari Samiti Limited, Kotwa Panday 1,500 3. Madhya Pradesh Balaghat Bahudeshiya Prathamik Krishi Saakh Sahakari Society Maryadit, Parswada 500 4. Gujarat Ahmedabad The Chandranagar Group Seva Sahakari Mandli Limited 750 5. Tamil Nadu Theni Silamarathupatti Primary Agriculture Credit Society 1,000 6. Rajasthan Sri Ganganagar Ghumudwali Gram Seva Sahakari Samiti Limited 250 7. Telangana Karimnagar Primary Agriculture Credit Society Limited, Gambhiropet 500 8. Karnataka Bidar Primary Agriculture Cooperative Federation Limited, Ekamba 1,000 9. Tripura Gomati Khilpara Primary Agriculture Credit Society Limited 250 10. Assam Kamrup 2 No. Pub Bongshar G.P.S.S Limited 500 11. Uttarakhand Dehradun Bahudeshiya Kisan Seva Sahakari Samiti Limited, Sahaspur 500 Total       9,750   Additionally, foundation stones have been laid for 500 additional PACS godowns under the Pilot Project, with a total of 575 PACS identified for implementation across various States/UTs.   Expansion and Future Goals The Ministry of Cooperation aims to establish and strengthen 2 lakh multipurpose PACS, Dairy, and Fishery Cooperative Societies across all panchayats and villages in the country. To guide this process, a Margdarshika (Standard Operating Procedure) has been introduced. In Karnataka, 128 PACS have been established against a target of 218 PACS to be formed by FY 2028-29.   Impact of the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan Decentralized Storage Capacity: 9,750 MT of storage capacity has been created at the PACS level. Reduction in Food Grain Wastage: Prevents post-harvest losses by ensuring adequate storage facilities. Strengthening of Food Security: Ensures better storage and distribution of food grains to enhance national food security. Preventing Distress Sales: Farmers can store their produce and sell it at better prices rather than being forced into distress sales. Cost Reduction in Transportation: Since PACS can function as both procurement centers and Fair Price Shops (FPS), transportation costs are reduced. Avoids the need to transport grains from procurement centers to warehouses and back to FPS. This initiative marks a major milestone in strengthening the cooperative sector and enhancing agricultural infrastructure across India. Consider the following statements regarding the “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector”: It is being implemented exclusively under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). The plan aims to develop agri-infrastructure at the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) level. One of the objectives of the plan is to enable PACS to operate as procurement centers as well as Fair Price Shops (FPS). 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 plan is not implemented exclusively under AIF; rather, it converges multiple schemes like Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure Scheme (AMI), Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), and Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME). Statement 2 is correct: The plan focuses on strengthening PACS by developing godowns, custom hiring centers, and processing units. Statement 3 is correct: The initiative allows PACS to function as procurement centers and Fair Price Shops (FPS), reducing transportation costs and logistical challenges. 3rd Session of India-Uganda Joint Trade Committee held in New Delhi Syllabus: IR The Third Session of the India-Uganda Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was held in New Delhi on 25th-26th March 2025, marking a significant step in reinforcing trade relations between the two nations after a gap of 23 years. Both sides conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral trade and acknowledged that the current trade volume does not fully reflect the economic potential of their partnership. To address this, both countries committed to enhancing, deepening, and diversifying trade relations. A key outcome of the discussions was the proposal to establish an India-Uganda Joint Business Forum to promote direct engagement between business leaders from both nations.                                     Key Areas of Cooperation India and Uganda identified priority sectors to expand trade and investment, including: Agriculture & Allied Sectors: Coffee, cocoa products, pulses, spices, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Minerals & Resources: Rare Earth Elements (REE), mining, petrochemicals, and residual chemical products. Manufacturing & Industrial Growth: Plastic raw materials, essential oils, and allied products. Technology & Infrastructure: Digital infrastructure, banking, MSME growth, solar energy, rural electrification, and electric vehicles. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: Strengthening cooperation in health services, traditional medicine, and telemedicine. Both sides also agreed to explore and formalize Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in Public Works, Infrastructure Development, Agriculture, Traditional Medicine, and Standardization. Additionally, discussions were held on recognizing the Indian Pharmacopoeia to facilitate pharmaceutical trade.   High-Level Participation The Indian delegation was led by Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Shri Ajay Bhadoo, who highlighted the strong economic partnership between the two nations and emphasized opportunities in e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, MSME cluster development, and renewable energy. The Ugandan delegation was headed by Elly Kamahungye Kafeero, Head of International Political Cooperation Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda, accompanied by Amb. Prof. Joyce Kikafunda Kakuramatsi, Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, and a 28-member delegation representing various ministries and Uganda’s Mission in India. The discussions were conducted in a cordial and cooperative

Sea Dragon 2025 Syllabus:Defence                 The Sea Dragon 2025 is a multilateral naval exercise focused on anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Hosted by the United States Navy’s 7th Fleet, it commenced on March 4, 2025, off the coast of Guam. This annual drill brings together key naval forces from the United States, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and India to enhance maritime security coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.                       Historical Evolution of Sea Dragon The Sea Dragon exercise originated in 2019 as a bilateral initiative between the United States Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). In 2020, it expanded to include Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand, broadening its scope. India joined in 2021, marking a strategic shift in its participation. By 2024, the exercise evolved into a Quad + South Korea collaboration, with Canada being excluded.   Participants in Sea Dragon 2025 The 2025 edition of the exercise features key naval forces, including the United States Navy (USN), Indian Navy (IN), Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), and Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN). Each nation deploys advanced Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (MPRA) for joint ASW training, enhancing operational coordination.   Objectives of Sea Dragon 2025 The primary objectives of the exercise are to enhance tactical coordination among participating navies and strengthen anti-submarine warfare capabilities. It aims to improve maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region by conducting simulated submarine-hunting exercises. The drill also focuses on promoting military cooperation among allied forces, ensuring seamless interoperability in maritime operations.   Nature of the Exercise Designed specifically for anti-submarine warfare, Sea Dragon involves MPRA deployments equipped with advanced sensors for real-world submarine detection training. The exercise consists of mock drills that simulate underwater threats, allowing pilots to exchange strategies and refine their submarine-tracking techniques.   Grading System and Awards The performance of participating nations is assessed based on submarine detection efficiency. The nation that achieves the highest score is awarded the Dragon Belt Award. Since 2022, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has consistently won this prestigious recognition.   Significance for India and the Indo-Pacific For India, Sea Dragon 2025 enhances anti-submarine warfare skills, strengthens defence cooperation with Quad nations, and prepares the country for future joint naval operations. In the Indo-Pacific region, the exercise plays a crucial role in ensuring stability, promoting freedom of navigation, and reinforcing regional defence collaboration. Consider the following statements regarding the Sea Dragon 2025 exercise: It is hosted by the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) to enhance surface warfare capabilities. The exercise is primarily focused on anti-submarine warfare (ASW). India has been a participant in the exercise since its inception in 2019. 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: Statement 1 is incorrect: The exercise is hosted by the U.S. 7th Fleet, not INDOPACOM. Additionally, it focuses on anti-submarine warfare, not surface warfare. Statement 2 is correct: Sea Dragon 2025 is explicitly designed for ASW, enhancing submarine detection and tracking. Statement 3 is incorrect: India joined the exercise in 2021, not 2019. The exercise initially started as a bilateral drill between the U.S. and Australia. Kerala Became First State To Establish Senior Citizens Commission Syllabus: Polity   Kerala has made history by becoming the first state in India to establish a Senior Citizens Commission with the passage of the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission Bill, 2025. This groundbreaking initiative reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of elderly citizens. The commission will serve as a statutory body dedicated to addressing the needs of senior citizens while also acting as an advisory panel for policy formulation and implementation.   About the Senior Citizens Commission What is the Senior Citizens Commission? A statutory body established under the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission Act, 2025. The first commission of its kind in India, focusing exclusively on elderly welfare. Functions as an advisory authority for state policies concerning senior citizens.   Objectives of the Commission Ensure the protection, welfare, and rehabilitation of elderly individuals. Safeguard the rights and dignity of senior citizens. Encourage the active participation of elderly individuals in societal development. Promote inclusive policies to integrate senior citizens into various sectors.   Key Features and Functions Policy Advisory: Develops and recommends policies for the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens. Grievance Redressal: Addresses complaints related to neglect, abuse, financial exploitation, and social exclusion. Skill Utilization: Encourages senior citizens to contribute their knowledge, skills, and experience to society. Legal Support: Provides legal assistance, particularly in cases of elder abuse, property disputes, and financial exploitation. Awareness Campaigns: Conducts public awareness programs to educate people about the rights of senior citizens and the responsibilities of families and institutions. Regular Reports: Submits periodic recommendations to the state government for necessary policy updates and improvements. With the establishment of this commission, Kerala has set a precedent for other states to prioritize elderly welfare and create a more inclusive, supportive, and dignified environment for senior citizens. With reference to the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission, consider the following statements: It is the first statutory body in India dedicated to senior citizens’ welfare. The commission has the power to issue legally binding directives on cases of elder abuse. It functions as both an advisory and grievance redressal body for elderly-related policies. The establishment of this commission was mandated under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 4 only(c) 1, 2, and 3 only(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4 Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only Explanation: Statement 1 is correct: Kerala is the first Indian state to establish a statutory Senior Citizens Commission. Statement 2 is incorrect: The commission does not have judicial powers to issue legally binding directives but can recommend legal action. Statement 3 is correct: The commission serves as an advisory and grievance redressal body. Statement