Category: Daily Current Affairs & Editorials

National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST) Syllabus: GS2/Government Schemes Context: Research scholars from Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities across India have raised concerns over prolonged delays and irregular disbursement of funds under the National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST).   About NFST: Administered by: Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Scheme Type: Central Sector Scheme. Coverage: 750 fellowships awarded annually.   Courses Covered: D. (full-time, regular) Integrated M.Phil. + Ph.D. Phil. in Clinical Psychology Psychiatric Social Work   Duration & Support: Fellowship provided for a maximum of 5 years, released in quarterly installments.   Mode of Application: Online via the National Fellowship Portal.   Objective: To promote higher education among Scheduled Tribe students by providing financial assistance for advanced research and professional studies.   Eligibility: Candidate must be enrolled in a recognized university/institute/college (UGC-approved) for a full-time M.Phil./Ph.D. program. With reference to the National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST), consider the following statements: It is a Central Sector Scheme implemented by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The scheme provides 750 fellowships annually for ST candidates pursuing higher education, including Ph.D., Integrated M.Phil.+Ph.D., and certain professional courses. Disbursement of fellowship funds is done monthly, directly through the concerned university or institution. The fellowship is admissible for a maximum period of five years, and applications are invited online via the National Fellowship Portal. Only candidates registered for regular, full-time courses in UGC-recognized institutions are eligible. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only(b) 1, 3 and 5 only(c) 2 and 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Answer: (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only Explanation: Statement 1 → Correct: NFST is indeed a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Statement 2 → Correct: 750 fellowships are offered annually for ST candidates, including Ph.D., Integrated M.Phil.+Ph.D., M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology, and Psychiatric Social Work. Statement 3 → Incorrect: The fellowship is disbursed quarterly, not monthly, and goes directly to the scholar’s account (not via the university). Statement 4 → Correct: Fellowship is available for a maximum of 5 years, and applications are processed online through the National Fellowship Portal. Statement 5 → Correct: Only candidates registered for full-time, regular M.Phil./Ph.D. in UGC-recognized institutions are eligible. ISRO Inks Agreement with HAL for Transfer of SSLV Technology Syllabus:Science and Technology     Context The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has signed a formal agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the transfer of technology (ToT) to enable the production of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs).   Key Highlights of the Agreement Industry Participation: Marks a milestone in private/industry involvement in India’s space sector. 100th ToT Agreement: Facilitated under the aegis of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe). Timeline: ISRO will complete the ToT process in 24 months, including training and technical support. Outcome: HAL will gain the capacity to independently manufacture SSLVs for both domestic and international markets.   Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) Design: Three-stage, all-solid propulsion system. Payload Capacity: Up to 500 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Features: Quick turnaround and on-demand launches. Industry-friendly design for bulk/independent production. Strengthens India’s competitiveness in the global small satellite launch market. With reference to the recent ISRO–HAL agreement on Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV), consider the following statements: It is the first Technology Transfer Agreement signed by ISRO with a defence PSU for an entire launch vehicle. The SSLV is designed primarily with liquid propulsion systems for cost efficiency and reusability. The agreement was facilitated by IN-SPACe, which functions under the Department of Space. Post-transfer, HAL will be authorized to independently manufacture SSLVs for international clients without ISRO’s supervision. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1, 3 and 4 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 2 and 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer: (a) 1, 3 and 4 onlyExplanation: (1)  Correct → First full launch vehicle ToT to a defence PSU (earlier transfers were for subsystems, materials, etc.). (2)  Incorrect → SSLV uses a 3-stage all-solid propulsion, not liquid. (3) Correct → IN-SPACe (under DoS) promotes private participation. (4)  Correct → Agreement empowers HAL to manufacture SSLVs independently, including for global markets. AI-Based Mental Health Program ‘Never Alone’ Launched at AIIMS Delhi Syllabus: GS2/Health     Context: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has launched an AI-driven mental health and wellness initiative, “Never Alone”, aimed at addressing rising student suicides and improving mental health awareness. About ‘Never Alone’ Programme Launch Date: 10 September (World Suicide Prevention Day). Platform: Web-based app (accessible via WhatsApp). Services: 24×7 virtual and offline consultations with mental health professionals. Purpose: To reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and enhance awareness among students.   Objectives & Rationale Provides personalised, confidential mental health screening at an institutional cost of only ₹0.70 per student per day (for institutions with ≥5,000 students). NCRB data (2022): Over 7 lakh suicide deaths in India, with the 18–30 years age group contributing ~35%, highlighting the urgent need for interventions.   World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) Established: 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with WHO. Date: 10 September each year. Aim: To focus global attention on suicide prevention, foster awareness, and unite governments, organizations, and communities with the belief that suicides are preventable. With reference to India’s recent mental health initiatives, consider the following statements: Never Alone, launched by AIIMS, is India’s first AI-enabled mental health program providing 24×7 consultations, and it was launched on World Suicide Prevention Day, which is observed annually by WHO on 10 September since 2003. The program provides personalised screening at an institutional cost of less than ₹1 per student per day, making it one of the lowest-cost structured mental health interventions globally. According to NCRB (2022) data, the 18–30 years age group accounts for more than one-third of suicides in India, while student suicides constitute less than 10% of all suicides. Unlike Ayushman Bharat Mental Health initiative, which is focused on hospital-based care, Never Alone adopts a preventive, app-based,

INS Khanderi vs INS Kalvari: Scorpene-Class Submarines Compared Syllabus:Defence Background Built under Project 75: MDL (Mumbai) + French Naval Group Role: Stealth, intelligence, surveillance, precision strike   INS Kalvari Commissioned: 14 Dec 2017 Name Origin: Kalvari (deep-sea tiger shark) Significance: First Scorpene-class, proof of concept Features: Torpedoes + Exocet missiles, Advanced sonar & stealth tech ~1,600 tonnes displacement, 67.5 m length, crew ~35   INS Khanderi Commissioned: 28 Sep 2019, Name Origin: Khanderi (Maratha Navy island fort) Significance: Improved systems, operational maturity   Features: Torpedoes + Exocet missiles (18 load),Enhanced combat management systems Better acoustic silencing & sonar   Strategic Importance Strengthen India’s sea-denial & underwater warfare in IOR Kalvari = symbol of capability | Khanderi = refined integration & maturity   Consider the following statements about Project 75: It involves construction of diesel-electric attack submarines with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP). INS Kalvari was the first Scorpene-class submarine commissioned under Project 75. The project is part of a larger naval vision to induct both SSBNs and SSNs for nuclear deterrence. Which of the 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: Project 75 = conventional diesel-electric attack submarines (SSKs), not SSBNs/SSNs (nuclear-powered). Kalvari = first commissioned (2017). AIP modules (DRDO) planned for later refits, not fully operational yet Exercise Zapad 2025 Syllabus:Defence   Overview Type: Multilateral military exercise (Russia-led) Venue: Mulino Training Ground, Nizhniy, Russia Since: Soviet era; modern series from 2009 (quadrennial) India’s Participation: Earlier in 2021 & now in 2025   Objectives Strengthen defence cooperation & trust Enhance interoperability & joint tactics Build counter-terrorism & conventional warfare capacity Exposure to multinational combat & new technologies   Key Features Participants: Indian Army, Navy & Air Force   Focus Areas: Joint company-level operations in plains Tactical drills & arms proficiency Special operations & counter-terrorism   Outcome: Operational synergy Shared military learning Stronger India–Russia defence ties Consider the following statements about India’s participation in the Russia-led multilateral military exercise held at Mulino Training Ground in 2025: The modern series of this exercise has been conducted since 2009 on a quadrennial basis, though its roots trace back to the Soviet era. India participated in earlier editions including 2021, and in 2025 deployed a tri-service contingent (Army, Navy, and Air Force). The primary focus areas include counter-terrorism operations, tactical drills, and interoperability in plains warfare. The exercise is exclusively bilateral between India and Russia, designed to consolidate defence ties. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only(b) 2 and 4 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4  Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only Explanation:  (1) Correct: The exercise’s legacy comes from the Soviet era, with the present “modern” format started in 2009, held every 4 years.  (2) Correct: India had joined earlier (notably 2021), and in 2025 sent a tri-service contingent.  (3) Correct: Core focus = interoperability, tactical drills, counter-terrorism, company-level ops in plains.  (4) Incorrect: The exercise is multilateral, not bilateral—other nations also join. Lankhong Puja Syllabus:Culture   About the Festival Type: Socio-religious agricultural festival Celebrated by: Tiwa (Lalung) tribe of Assam Purpose: Invoke blessings for prosperous Rabi crop   Features: Community prayers & ritual offerings Music, dance, cultural performances Reinforces agricultural traditions & community bonding   About the Tiwa Tribe Ethnicity: Mongoloid group; Tibeto-Burman linguistic family Habitat: Assam (Nagaon, Morigaon, Dhemaji, Jorhat, Dibrugarh), parts of Meghalaya & Tripura Divisions: Hill Tiwas & Plain Tiwas (distinct lifestyles)   Culture: Oral traditions, folk dance/music Religious life around Borghar, Thaan Ghar, Naamghar Youth body Chamadi manages social duties Festivals linked to agricultural cycles Historical Mentions: Assam Buranji, Jayanta Buranji, Kachari Buranji Consider the following statements regarding the Tiwa (Lalung) tribe of Northeast India: The Tiwa festival, celebrated to invoke blessings for a prosperous Rabi crop, blends both agricultural and socio-religious elements. Tiwas belong to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic family and are broadly divided into Hill Tiwas and Plain Tiwas with distinct lifestyles. The Chamadi, a traditional youth body among the Tiwas, manages cultural duties but is not involved in community-level decision making. Historical records such as Assam Buranji and Kachari Buranji make mention of the Tiwa tribe, attesting to their socio-political presence in pre-colonial Assam. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 4 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4  Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only Explanation:  (1) Correct → Tiwa agricultural festival is both socio-religious and agrarian, invoking prosperity for Rabi crops.  (2) Correct → They belong to the Tibeto-Burman family; division between Hill Tiwas (more traditional, autonomous) and Plain Tiwas (assimilated with Assamese culture).  (3) Incorrect → The Chamadi is not just ceremonial; it undertakes social duties and community decision-making, especially for youth affairs.  (4) Correct → Mentioned in historical chronicles (Assam Buranji, Jayanta Buranji, Kachari Buranji). Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) Syllabus: Geography   About GERD Type: Mega hydroelectric project (2011–) Location: Blue Nile River, Guba (Ethiopia), ~30 km from Sudan border   Significance: Symbol of Ethiopia’s development & regional influence Source of regional energy trade & power security Contested by Egypt (water security concerns)   Key Features Height: ~170 m | Length: ~2 km, Reservoir Capacity: 74 BCM (~1,874 km² area) Power Output: 5,150–6,450 MW (largest in Africa), Sediment Trap: Designed to hold ~100 years of inflow About Blue Nile River Length: ~1,460 km (Ethiopia → Sudan → joins White Nile at Khartoum) Origin: Lake Tana region, ~1,800 m altitude Contribution: Provides ~70–85% of Nile waters Major Tributaries: Dinder & Rahad Rivers   Strategic Importance: Ethiopia → national pride & power generation Egypt & Sudan → concerns over water rights & Nile dependence Consider the following statements regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Blue Nile River: GERD, located close to the Sudan border, is designed to generate more hydroelectricity than the Aswan High Dam in Egypt. The Blue Nile, originating near Lake Tana, contributes over two-thirds of

Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple Syllabus:History   The Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site located on Pavagadh Hill in the Panchmahal District of Gujarat. Situated at an elevation of 762 meters, it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India.   History and Architecture: Believed to be over 1,000 years old, with its origins dating back to the 10th-11th centuries. The idol of Mahakali was installed in the 12th century. The temple received patronage from the Solanki Rajput dynasty. It is now part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. The structure is built of stone, reflecting medieval Hindu temple architecture with intricate carvings and domes. The sanctum houses a black stone idol of Mahakali, with only the upper part visible to devotees.   Latest News: A recent incident resulted in the death of six people after a cable wire of a ropeway snapped, causing a cable car to crash. The ropeway was meant for material transport. With reference to the Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple, consider the following statements: It is one of the Shakti Peethas, where it is believed the right toe of Goddess Sati fell. The temple received patronage during the rule of the Solanki Rajputs, contemporaneous with the Chalukyan architectural tradition of Gujarat. It forms part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized primarily for its Islamic monuments and not for Hindu temples. 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: Correct – Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas; it is believed the right toe of Goddess Sati fell here. Correct – The temple received patronage under the Solanki Rajputs (10th–12th centuries), who represent the Chalukyan school of Gujarat temple architecture. Incorrect – UNESCO’s inscription explicitly mentions both Hindu and Islamic monuments. The statement tries to mislead by saying only Islamic monuments were recognized. Nilgiri Tea Syllabus:Ecology Nilgiris tea growers are currently facing a significant cost-price crisis. This is primarily due to low prices for green tea leaves, overproduction, and ineffective auction systems, which are threatening the livelihoods of small-scale growers. Nilgiri tea, a variety of Camellia sinensis, is grown in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. It is a Geographical Indication (GI) product recognized since 2008.   Key characteristics of Nilgiri tea: Region: Primarily cultivated in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, with smaller areas in Kerala and Karnataka. Altitude & Climate: Grown at altitudes of 1,000 to 2,500 meters in the Western Ghats. The region experiences two monsoons, with alternating periods of fog, rain, and sunshine, and has rich, well-drained lateritic loam soil. Production: Produces both orthodox rolled teas and CTC (crush, tear, curl) teas. Flavor Profile: Known for a brisk, fragrant, and full-bodied taste with citrus and floral notes. It is particularly valued for retaining its clarity when cooled, making it ideal for iced tea. Uses: It is a popular choice for blending in iced teas, masala chai, and is used by major global commercial brands like Nestea. With reference to Nilgiris tea, consider the following statements: It is grown exclusively in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu and not in any other state. It was accorded Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2008. Unlike Darjeeling tea, Nilgiri tea is harvested throughout the year due to bi-monsoonal rainfall. 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 : Nilgiri tea is grown primarily in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu but also in parts of Kerala and Karnataka (Western Ghats). Statement 2 : It got GI tag in 2008. Statement 3 : Unlike Darjeeling (with flush seasons), Nilgiri tea is plucked year-round due to two monsoons (southwest + northeast). Israel Launches Ofek-19 Military Satellite Syllabus:Space   Israel has successfully launched its newest spy satellite, Ofek 19, from an undisclosed location.  The satellite was built by the state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). Ofek 19 is a highly advanced SAR (synthetic aperture radar) observation satellite. This sophisticated technology allows it to capture high-resolution images of the ground in all weather conditions, both day and night, by penetrating cloud cover. These enhanced capabilities are crucial for Israel’s defense and intelligence operations. The launch of Ofek 19 continues a long-standing program that began in 1988. Israel has deployed a series of Ofek observation satellites for consistent monitoring and intelligence gathering to support its military and national security interests. With reference to Israel’s Ofek 19 satellite, consider the following statements: It uses Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, which enables high-resolution imaging regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Israel’s Ofek program began in the late 1980s and has primarily served civilian disaster management and agricultural monitoring purposes. Ofek 19 was developed indigenously by Israel Aerospace Industries, a state-run company. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a)1 and 2 only(b) 1 and 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only Explanation: Correct → SAR allows all-weather, day-night surveillance. Incorrect → Ofek satellites are military intelligence-focused, not primarily civilian. Correct → Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). Mission Mausam Syllabus:Geography   The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is set to install four new radars in Jammu & Kashmir as part of Mission Mausam. This initiative aims to provide more accurate, district-specific weather forecasts for the region.   About Mission Mausam Launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Mission Mausam is a comprehensive program designed to enhance weather and climate services across India. It is a collaborative effort led by the IMD, the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The mission’s core objective is to deliver timely and precise weather observation, modeling, and forecasting information. This

Building Climate-Resilient Cities in India Syllabus: Urbanisation       Context: By 2070, India’s urban population is projected to touch 1 billion, making cities the fulcrum of growth. However, rising risks from floods, heat waves, cyclones, and earthquakes highlight the urgency of climate-resilient urban planning.   Current Climate Vulnerabilities in Indian Cities Flooding: Unchecked urbanisation, poor drainage → two-thirds of residents at risk; projected damages > $30 billion by 2070. Extreme Heat: Urban Heat Island effect → cities hotter by 3–5°C, worsening mortality, health risks, and productivity loss. Transport: Nearly 25% of roads flood-prone; even partial waterlogging can paralyse urban mobility. Housing: Over half of future housing yet to be built; poor design can lock in risks for decades. Municipal Services: Weak drainage, waste, and energy networks worsen shocks and pollution.   Why Climate-Resilient Cities are Needed Safeguard Lives: Preparedness against floods/heatwaves reduces mortality and displacement. Protect the Economy: Cities contribute 70%+ of GDP and jobs; resilience safeguards economic continuity. Inclusion: Poor and migrants are most exposed; resilient design ensures equity. Cost-Effective: Proactive adaptation lowers future losses and attracts global investment.   Key Challenges Weak ULBs: Limited capacity, finances, and expertise for resilience planning. Fragmented Governance: Overlapping roles among states, ULBs, and parastatals slow decision-making. Financial Constraints: Low municipal revenues; limited access to global climate finance. Poor Planning: Encroachment on wetlands/floodplains amplifies vulnerability. Inequality: Informal settlements remain exposed to hazards with minimal protection.   Indian Initiatives NAPCC & SAPCCs: Frameworks for mainstreaming climate action. Sustainable Habitat Mission: Greener buildings, transport, and waste systems. Smart Cities Mission & AMRUT: Incorporate resilience into infrastructure. Heat Action Plans: Initiated in Ahmedabad; now scaled nationwide. PMAY-Urban: Scope for integrating climate-smart housing.   Strategies for Resilience Urban Planning: Compact cities; disaster-resistant building codes; zoning restrictions in high-risk areas. Flood Management: Wetland restoration, modern drainage, predictive flood systems. Heat Resilience: Tree canopies, cool roofs, shaded walkways, adjusted labour hours. Transport Systems: Elevated, redundant networks to stay functional during floods. Municipal Services: Climate-proof sanitation, waste, and energy systems with circular economy principles. Finance & Partnerships: Mobilise PPPs, green bonds, climate funds; encourage citizen participation. Capacity Building: Training ULB staff; GIS/AI-based risk mapping; institutional strengthening.   Conclusion India’s urban future depends on building cities that can withstand climate shocks while ensuring sustainable growth, equity, and ecological balance. Climate resilience is not only about disaster response but about long-term survival and competitiveness. The window of opportunity is narrow — action must begin now. With reference to climate vulnerabilities in Indian cities, consider the following statements: Nearly one-fourth of India’s urban road network is prone to flooding, where even partial submergence can paralyse major transport systems. The urban heat island effect contributes to cities being 3–5°C warmer than surrounding rural areas. More than half of India’s future housing stock is yet to be constructed, creating an opportunity to embed resilience at the design stage. 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: (d) 1, 2 and 3 Explanation Statement 1: CorrectAround one-fourth of urban roads are vulnerable to flooding, and even minor submergence can paralyse nearly half of the transport system in major cities. This shows how weak drainage + unchecked urbanisation worsen vulnerability. Statement 2: CorrectUrban heat island effect makes concrete-heavy Indian cities 3–5°C hotter than their surroundings, raising health risks, mortality, and productivity losses. Statement 3: CorrectMore than 50% of India’s housing stock is yet to be built, providing a crucial window to integrate climate-smart design and avoid locking in vulnerabilities for decades. All three statements are correct. Indian Generics Global Public Good: Pharma Diplomacy & Trade Strategy Syllabus: Pharma Industry   Current Landscape of Indian Pharma: India is the world’s largest supplier of generic medicines, serving over 200 countries and earning the title “Pharmacy of the World.” The U.S. remains the largest market, accounting for 31.35% of Indian pharma exports and importing 47% of its generics. In 2022, Indian generics saved the U.S. healthcare system USD 219 billion. The global generics market is projected to reach USD 614 billion by 2030, with India poised as a leading player. Key challenges include U.S. tariffs, heavy reliance on Chinese APIs, and rising global competition.   Significance of Indian Generics: Affordable Medicines: Indian generics cost only 20–25% of branded alternatives, ensuring access to treatments for diabetes, cancer, HIV, and more. Global Public Health: Indian generics make up over 90% of U.S. prescriptions and are vital for developing nations. Economic Contribution: Pharma exports generate roughly USD 25 billion annually and create millions of domestic jobs. Strategic Leverage: Indian generics strengthen soft power, demonstrated by initiatives like Vaccine Maitri during COVID-19. Innovation Potential: India is emerging as a leader in biosimilars, vaccines, and cost-efficient R&D-driven pharma solutions.   Need for Strategic Realignment: Move beyond short-term tariff concessions toward a long-term global trade strategy. Firmly resist TRIPS-plus demands that extend monopolies and delay generic entry. Diversify export markets beyond the U.S., targeting Africa, Latin America, ASEAN, and Central Asia. Leverage technology transfer and joint R&D partnerships to bolster domestic pharma capacity. Position Indian generics as a global public good aligned with SDG-3: Health for All.   Key Challenges: Trade Barriers: U.S. tariffs up to 26% with additional penalties; push for zero tariffs without reciprocal benefits. IPR Pressures: Demands for data exclusivity and extended patent monopolies threaten generic entry. Domestic Constraints: High dependence on Chinese APIs, fragmented R&D ecosystem, and regulatory hurdles. Global Competition: Emergence of China, Brazil, and Eastern Europe as alternative generics hubs. Public Health Risks: Restrictive IP rules could spike medicine costs globally, worsening inequities.   Ongoing Initiatives & Policy Measures: TRIPS Flexibilities: Maintaining compulsory licensing to ensure affordable medicines. India–US TRUST Initiative: Collaboration in biotech, pharma, and health technologies. Make in India & PLI Scheme: Strengthening domestic production and reducing API dependence. South–South Cooperation: Joint ventures in Africa, Latin America, and ASEAN. Health-Tech Diplomacy: Sharing vaccine platforms and generics technology with developing nations.   Way Forward: Leverage Negotiating Capital: Resist TRIPS-plus provisions