BHAVYA Scheme
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA).
- The scheme has a total outlay of ₹33,660 crore.
- It aims to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India.
Key Features of BHAVYA Scheme
- Focus on creating ready-to-use industrial ecosystems with modern infrastructure.
- Industrial parks will range between 100 to 1,000 acres.
- Implemented through partnership between Centre, States, and private sector.
- Builds upon the success of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).
Financial Assistance
- Up to ₹1 crore per acre for:
- Core infrastructure (roads, drainage, utilities, ICT systems)
- Value-added facilities (factory sheds, testing labs, warehousing)
- Social infrastructure (worker housing, amenities)
- Additional support up to 25% of project cost for external connectivity.
Ease of Doing Business
- Provision for single-window clearances and faster approvals.
- Availability of pre-approved land and ready infrastructure.
- Reduces time from planning to production.
- Projects selected through a challenge-based mechanism to ensure quality.
Sustainable and Future-Ready Infrastructure
- Alignment with PM GatiShakti for integrated planning.
- Emphasis on:
- Multimodal connectivity
- Green energy solutions
- Sustainable resource management
- Underground utility corridors (no-dig infrastructure)
Economic Impact and Benefits
- Expected to generate large-scale employment (direct and indirect).
- Boosts manufacturing, logistics, and services sectors.
- Promotes cluster-based industrial development.
- Strengthens domestic supply chains.
- Benefits:
- MSMEs
- Startups
- Large manufacturers
- Global investors
- Local communities
Role of NICDC
- National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) will implement the scheme.
- Operates under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
- Currently managing 20 industrial projects across 13 states.
Significance
- Supports the vision of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Enhances industrial competitiveness and investment attractiveness.
- Promotes balanced regional industrial growth.
IOS SAGAR Initiative Launched
Why in News
- The Indian Navy has launched the second edition of the IOS SAGAR initiative from March 16.
- It aims to enhance maritime cooperation and security in the Indian Ocean Region with participation from 16 countries.
About IOS SAGAR Initiative
- IOS SAGAR stands for Indian Ocean Ship initiative under SAGAR vision.
- It is part of India’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
- Also aligned with MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).
- Functions as an operational engagement programme involving partner countries.
Objectives of the Initiative
- Promote maritime cooperation among Indian Ocean countries.
- Strengthen regional maritime security and stability.
- Build interoperability between navies.
- Enhance mutual trust and professional understanding.
Training and Joint Operations
- Programme begins with training sessions in Kochi.
- Training includes:
- Naval operations
- Seamanship practices
- Maritime security concepts
- Followed by onboard deployment on Indian naval ships.
- Foreign personnel sail with Indian Navy and participate in operational activities at sea.
Maritime Engagement Activities
- Conduct of joint maritime operations during deployment.
- Port visits to various countries in the region.
- Interaction with partner navies and maritime agencies.
- Exchange of best practices and operational experiences.
Significance
- Strengthens India’s leadership role in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Enhances regional cooperation in tackling maritime challenges.
- Builds long-term defence and strategic partnerships.
- Contributes to a secure and stable maritime environment in the IOR.
Zero Customs Duty on Nuclear Imports to Boost Energy Sector
Why in News
- Jitendra Singh announced that the government has allowed zero customs duty on imports for nuclear power projects to boost capacity and reduce electricity costs.
Key Decision
- Zero customs duty on:
- Nuclear fuels
- Reactor components
- Applicable till 2035.
- Aims to make nuclear power projects more economically viable.
- Especially beneficial for projects involving foreign collaboration.
Impact on Nuclear Energy Sector
- Faster execution of nuclear power projects.
- Reduction in overall capital costs.
- Lower per-unit electricity cost for consumers.
- Helps projects dependent on imported components.
Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing
- Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) working to enhance domestic supply chain.
- Focus on 10 newly approved 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) units.
- Measures include:
- Bulk orders for continuity
- Expansion of vendor base
- Promotion of indigenous manufacturing
- Import substitution
- Encouraging MSME participation
Focus on Research and Development
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) receiving increased funding.
- Key focus areas:
- Development of advanced research reactors
- Isotope production for cancer treatment
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
- Hydrogen production technologies
- Work on accelerators, lasers, and advanced materials
Clarification on PM Gati Shakti
- No current proposal to integrate nuclear park infrastructure with PM GatiShakti.
- Applies particularly to upcoming projects in coastal states.
Significance
- Promotes clean and reliable energy source.
- Supports India’s long-term energy security.
- Encourages self-reliance in nuclear technology.
- Contributes to reduction in electricity costs.
India to Lead Global 6G Standardisation Efforts
Why in News
- Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that India is set to play a leading role in global 6G standardisation through the Bharat 6G Alliance.
Bharat 6G Alliance and Global Role
- India aims to contribute to global 6G standards via the Bharat 6G Alliance.
- The alliance is working through seven dedicated working groups.
- Focus on ensuring India’s active participation in shaping future telecom technologies.
- 6G technology expected to have transformative and wide-ranging applications.
Importance of 6G Technology
- Potential to bridge the digital divide.
- Will create new economic and technological opportunities.
- Expected to enable advanced applications in communication, industry, and services.
Growth of India’s Telecom Sector
- Significant reduction in data cost:
- From ₹290 to around ₹8 per GB (about 97% decline).
- Expansion of telecom infrastructure:
- Base Transreceiver Stations increased from 6 lakh (2014) to 32 lakh.
- Rapid 5G rollout:
- Coverage in 99.9% of districts.
- Around 40 crore users connected to 5G network.
Connectivity in Border Areas
- Telecom connectivity improved from 42% (2014) to about 98%.
- 17,222 out of 17,600 border villages now connected.
- Focus on improving infrastructure in remote and strategic regions.
Performance of BSNL
- Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) recorded a financial turnaround.
- Reported a net profit of ₹280 crore in a quarter of FY 2024–25 after 18 years.
- Subscriber base increased from 8.5 crore to 9.27 crore.
- Improvement in network uptime (example: Rajasthan from 92% to 97%).
Indigenous Telecom Manufacturing
- India chose to develop its own 4G technology instead of importing.
- Now among a few countries with telecom equipment manufacturing capability.
- Strengthens self-reliance in telecom infrastructure.
Significance
- Positions India as a global leader in next-generation telecom technology.
- Supports Digital India and technological self-reliance.
- Enhances connectivity, economic growth, and innovation.
Small Hydro Power Development Scheme Approved to Boost Renewable Energy
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹2,584 crore Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Aims to develop small hydro projects with total capacity of about 1,500 MW.
- Covers projects with capacity between 1 MW and 25 MW.
- Special focus on hilly and North Eastern states with untapped hydro potential.
Financial Assistance
- For North Eastern states and border districts:
- ₹3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost (whichever is lower)
- Maximum ₹30 crore per project
- For other states:
- ₹2.4 crore per MW or 20% of project cost
- Maximum ₹20 crore per project
- ₹2,532 crore allocated for project support.
Investment and Economic Impact
- Expected to attract around ₹15,000 crore in investments.
- Likely to boost rural and remote area economies.
- Promotes indigenous plant and machinery, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Employment Generation
- Estimated to generate about 51 lakh person-days of employment during construction.
- Will also create long-term jobs in operation and maintenance.
Support for Future Projects
- Encourages preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for around 200 projects.
- ₹30 crore allocated for DPR preparation by central and state agencies.
Advantages of Small Hydro Projects
- Decentralised nature reduces need for large transmission infrastructure.
- Helps in lowering transmission losses.
- Environmentally sustainable:
- Minimal land acquisition
- Limited deforestation
- No large-scale displacement
Significance
- Contributes to India’s renewable energy and clean energy goals.
- Promotes sustainable development in remote and hilly regions.
- Revives the small hydro power sector.
- Ensures long-term energy generation (projects last 40–60 years).
MSP Support Approved for Cotton Farmers
Why in News
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved ₹1,718.56 crore as MSP support for cotton farmers for the 2023–24 season.
Key Features of the Decision
- Financial support provided to Cotton Corporation of India (CCI).
- Aims to ensure direct price support to farmers.
- Activated when market prices fall below MSP levels.
- Helps prevent distress sales and ensures fair returns.
Importance of Cotton Sector
- Cotton is a major cash crop in India.
- Supports livelihoods of around 60 lakh farmers.
- Provides employment to 400–500 lakh people in allied sectors like textiles and trade.
- India contributes nearly 25% of global cotton production.
Production and Area (2023–24)
- Area under cultivation: 114.47 lakh hectares.
- Production: 325.22 lakh bales.
MSP Mechanism
- MSP for cotton (kapas) is fixed based on recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
- CCI procures Fair Average Quality (FAQ) cotton without any quantitative limit.
- Procurement is done whenever market prices fall below MSP.
Procurement Infrastructure
- CCI operates across 11 major cotton-growing states.
- More than 508 procurement centres in 152 districts.
- Ensures easy access for farmers to sell their produce.
Technological Initiatives
- Introduction of Bale Identification and Traceability System (BITS).
- Launch of “Cott-Ally” mobile application.
- Aims to:
- Improve transparency
- Provide MSP-related information
- Enhance farmer outreach
Significance
- Protects farmers from price fluctuations.
- Stabilises cotton market prices.
- Strengthens rural economy and textile sector.
- Supports income security for farmers.
Digital India Drives Massive Growth in Broadband and Data Usage
Why in News
- Jitin Prasada highlighted that the Digital India initiative has led to a sharp rise in broadband subscribers and data usage over the past decade.
Growth in Digital Infrastructure
- Broadband subscribers increased from 25 crore (2014–15) to 103 crore (2024–25), about 400% growth.
- Mobile Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) increased from 7.9 lakh to 29.5 lakh.
- Mobile connectivity expanded from 5.27 lakh villages to 6.35 lakh villages.
- Optical fibre network expanded from 358 km to 6,92,676 km.
Surge in Data Usage and Affordability
- Average monthly data consumption increased from 61.66 MB to 25.25 GB per user.
- Cost of data reduced from ₹269 per GB to about ₹7.9 per GB.
- Around 97% reduction in data cost improved accessibility.
Key Features of Digital India Programme
- Launched in July 2015.
- Focus areas include:
- Expanding internet access
- Improving affordability
- Building digital public infrastructure
- Enhancing digital literacy
- Aims to ensure inclusive and equitable digital growth.
Role of Digital Public Infrastructure
- Over 143 crore Aadhaar numbers issued under Aadhaar.
- Unified Payments Interface (UPI):
- Over 46 crore users
- Connected with 685 banks
- Accounts for 81% of India’s digital payments
- Nearly 49% of global real-time digital payments
JAM Trinity and Direct Benefit Transfer
- JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) framework enabled efficient service delivery.
- Around ₹49.82 lakh crore transferred directly to beneficiaries.
- Reduced leakages and improved transparency.
Major Digital Platforms
- DigiLocker:
- 67 crore users
- Over 967 crore documents issued
- UMANG:
- Offers 2,446+ services
- Over 10.51 crore users
- More than 741 crore transactions
Digital Literacy Initiatives
- Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA):
- Trained over 6.39 crore people
- Exceeded target of 6 crore
- Concluded on March 31, 2024
Significance
- Strengthens India’s digital economy.
- Promotes financial inclusion and governance efficiency.
- Bridges the digital divide across regions.
- Positions India as a global leader in digital public infrastructure.
AdTrust Summit 2026
Why in News
- Sanjay Jaju raised concerns over misleading advertisements and called for a responsible advertising ecosystem at the AdTrust Summit 2026.
Key Concerns Raised
- Misleading advertisements in the digital space can erode public trust.
- Rising risks include:
- Financial scams
- Misleading investment schemes
- Fraudulent job offers
- Vulnerable groups are often the primary targets.
About AdTrust Summit 2026
- Organised by Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) in Mumbai.
- Brought together stakeholders from:
- Advertising industry
- Media and technology sectors
- Government and legal experts
- Discussions focused on emerging challenges like AI, deepfakes, and digital advertising ethics.
Challenges in Digital Advertising
- Growing use of:
- Artificial Intelligence in content creation
- Deepfakes and manipulated media
- Dark patterns influencing consumer behaviour
- Rise of anti-influencer sentiment due to lack of authenticity.
- Need for updated legal and regulatory frameworks.
Role and Impact of Advertising
- Advertising plays a key role in:
- Shaping markets
- Building brands
- Informing consumers
- Influencing aspirations
- Digital platforms have expanded reach for:
- Businesses
- Startups
- Content creators
Principles for Responsible Advertising
- Truthfulness should be non-negotiable.
- Transparency in sponsorships and promotions is essential.
- Accountability must accompany innovation.
- Special focus on protecting vulnerable groups.
- Influencers should maintain authenticity and avoid misleading promotions.
Regulatory and Policy Aspects
- Commercial speech is protected under freedom of expression.
- However, misleading advertisements need regulation.
- Emphasis on strengthening self-regulation and policy alignment.
Other Developments
- Launch of Ad Law Compendium to improve awareness of advertising regulations.
- Discussions held with stakeholders to enhance compliance and governance.
Significance
- Promotes consumer protection and trust in digital economy.
- Encourages ethical practices in advertising industry.
- Strengthens regulatory framework in evolving media landscape.
PMKVY Empowers Women in Chamoli
Why in News
- Over 200 women in Chamoli have received skill training under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and started earning livelihoods.
About PMKVY Scheme
- Flagship skill development programme of the Government of India.
- Focuses on outcome-based vocational training.
- Aims to enhance employability and promote self-reliance.
Implementation in Chamoli
- Around 200 women trained in various vocational skills.
- Training areas include:
- Tailoring
- Jute bag making
- Handicrafts
- Beneficiaries engaged in income-generating activities after training.
Economic Impact
- Women have started earning independent incomes.
- Some beneficiaries have set up businesses:
- Individually
- Through Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Growing demand for jute bags and handicrafts created market opportunities.
Social Impact
- Improved financial independence of women.
- Boost in self-confidence and social status.
- Reduced dependency on others for livelihood.
- Greater participation in household financial decisions.
Beneficiary Experiences
- Trainees reported gaining practical skills like tailoring.
- Improved chances of employment and entrepreneurship.
- Development of a new identity as skilled and independent workers.
Significance
- Promotes women empowerment and inclusive growth.
- Strengthens rural economy through skill-based employment.
- Supports the vision of self-reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
- Demonstrates effective grassroots implementation of skill development schemes.
Aadhaar Emerges as World’s Largest Biometric Identity System
Why in News
- Jitin Prasada informed Parliament that Aadhaar has become the world’s largest biometric ID system with about 134 crore users.
Key Highlights
- Around 134 crore active Aadhaar users.
- Over 17,000 crore authentication transactions completed.
- Serves as a key tool for identity verification and service delivery.
Role of UIDAI
- Managed by Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
- Provides authentication services to authorised entities.
- Enables identity verification using:
- One-Time Password (OTP)
- Biometrics (fingerprint, iris, face)
- Demographic details
Aadhaar Authentication System
- Aadhaar-based face authentication uses AI and machine learning.
- Entities must be registered as:
- Authentication User Agencies (AUA)
- KYC User Agencies (KUA)
- Ensures regulated and secure use of Aadhaar services.
Data Security and Privacy Measures
- Strong encryption of demographic data (at rest and in transit).
- Legal safeguards on data collection, storage, and usage.
- Authentication logs:
- Stored for 2 years by AUAs/KUAs
- Archived for 5 additional years before deletion
- Users can access logs for grievance redressal.
Audit and Compliance Framework
- UIDAI follows a three-tier audit system:
- Self-compliance audits
- Annual information security audits
- Governance, Risk, Compliance and Privacy (GRCP) audits
- Standard Operating Procedures ensure:
- Informed user consent
- Restricted use of authentication
- Secure data handling
- No storage of biometric data by entities
Data Sovereignty
- Aadhaar data is stored and processed within India.
- Safeguards in place to prevent data breaches and misuse.
Significance
- Backbone of India’s digital governance and service delivery.
- Enhances efficiency and transparency in welfare schemes.
- Supports financial inclusion and digital economy growth.
- Sets a global benchmark for large-scale digital identity systems.
ALMM Framework Extended to Solar Ingots and Wafers
Why in News
- The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has expanded the ALMM framework to include solar ingots and wafers, effective from June 1, 2028.
About ALMM Framework
- ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) ensures use of approved domestic manufacturers in solar projects.
- Introduced in 2019 to promote domestic solar manufacturing.
- Earlier covered:
- ALMM List-I: Solar modules
- ALMM List-II: Solar cells
- Now expanded to include:
- ALMM List-III: Solar ingots and wafers
Key Provisions of the New Framework
- Mandatory use of ALMM-listed wafers for all solar projects (including net metering and open access) from June 1, 2028.
- Applies to projects bid under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
- ALMM List-III to be issued only when:
- At least three manufacturers are operational
- Combined capacity reaches 15 GW
- Manufacturers must have equivalent ingot manufacturing capacity (promotes backward integration).
- ALMM List-I (modules) will include only those using ALMM-listed cells and wafers.
- Grandfathering provisions included to protect ongoing projects.
Importance of Ingots and Wafers
- Wafers are a key intermediate stage in solar manufacturing.
- Connect polysilicon production to solar cells.
- India currently depends heavily on imports in this segment.
Expected Impact
- Boost to domestic manufacturing ecosystem.
- Reduction in import dependence.
- Strengthening of supply chain resilience.
- Improvement in quality and traceability of solar products.
- Generation of skilled employment in upstream manufacturing.
Alignment with National Goals
- Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Contributes to India’s target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
- Enhances energy security and clean energy transition.
Significance
- Promotes end-to-end domestic value chain in solar sector.
- Reduces vulnerability to global supply disruptions.
- Strengthens India’s position in renewable energy manufacturing.
Argentina Withdraws from World Health Organization
Why in News
- Argentina has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), with the decision taking effect in 2026.
Background of the Decision
- Withdrawal decision was first announced in February 2025.
- Initiated under President Javier Milei.
- Formal notification submitted to the United Nations Secretary-General on March 17, 2025.
- Withdrawal became effective after one year, as per the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.
Reasons for Withdrawal
- Desire to strengthen national sovereignty in health policymaking.
- Aim to design policies suited to domestic priorities.
- Reduce external influence in public health decisions.
- Improve flexibility in allocation of resources.
Government’s Stand
- Argentina stated it does not depend on WHO funding for healthcare programmes.
- Claimed that withdrawal will not affect quality of healthcare services.
- Emphasised independent decision-making in health strategies.
Future Approach to Global Health Cooperation
- Argentina will continue cooperation through:
- Bilateral agreements
- Regional forums
- Focus on maintaining international engagement without WHO membership.
Significance
- Marks a major shift in Argentina’s global health engagement.
- Raises questions about multilateral cooperation in health governance.
- Reflects growing emphasis on national sovereignty in policy decisions.
- Could influence debates on the role of international organisations like WHO.
US Expands Golden Dome Missile Defence Programme to $185 Billion
Why in News
- The United States has increased the estimated cost of its Golden Dome missile defence programme to $185 billion and onboarded major defence firms.
About Golden Dome Programme
- A next-generation missile defence system combining:
- Ground-based interceptors
- Advanced sensors
- Command-and-control systems
- Space-based capabilities
- Aims to detect, track, and potentially counter missile threats from space.
- Planned to be developed over the next decade as a full-capability system.
Key Developments
- Cost estimate increased by $10 billion to $185 billion.
- Major defence companies involved:
- Lockheed Martin
- Northrop Grumman
- RTX Corporation
- A consortium of nine companies working collaboratively on the project.
Focus on Space-Based Capabilities
- Expansion includes space-based systems for:
- Missile detection
- Tracking of threats
- Potential interception from orbit
- Key programmes accelerated:
- Advanced Missile Tracking Initiative
- Space data network
- Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS)
About HBTSS
- Space-based sensor system for tracking hypersonic and ballistic missiles.
- Provides persistent, real-time tracking from orbit.
- Important for countering emerging hypersonic threats.
Technological Aspects
- Emphasis on advanced technologies:
- Artificial Intelligence for faster decision-making
- Directed energy weapons for cost-effective interception
- Command-and-control system described as the core strength of the programme.
Challenges
- Space-based interceptors identified as the highest-risk component.
- Issues of scalability and affordability remain key concerns.
- Debate over overall cost, with some external estimates exceeding $1 trillion.
Significance
- Strengthens US homeland missile defence capabilities.
- Reflects growing focus on space as a strategic defence domain.
- Addresses threats from hypersonic and advanced missile systems.
- Marks increasing collaboration between government and private defence sector.
Global Child Mortality Remains High, Progress Slows: UN Report
Why in News
- The United Nations reported that around 4.9 million children under five died globally in 2024, indicating a slowdown in reducing child mortality.
Key Findings of the Report
- Around 4.9 million children died before the age of five in 2024.
- Most deaths were preventable with better healthcare access.
- Major causes include:
- Pre-term birth complications
- Infectious diseases such as malaria
- The data is based on estimates by:
- UNICEF
- World Health Organization
- World Bank
Trends in Child Mortality
- Child deaths have more than halved since 2000.
- Progress has slowed significantly since 2015.
- Mortality figures:
- 2022: 4.9 million
- 2023: 4.8 million
- 2024: 4.9 million (not directly comparable due to methodological changes)
- Indicates stagnation in global efforts to reduce child mortality.
Reasons for Slowdown
- Ongoing conflicts affecting healthcare access.
- Economic instability in many regions.
- Impact of climate change on health conditions.
- Weak healthcare systems in developing countries.
- Reduction in global aid and funding.
Impact of Declining Global Aid
- Global development assistance for health declined by about 27% in 2025.
- Major donors like:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Germany
reduced funding.
- Aid cuts may:
- Slow progress further
- Reverse gains in child survival
- Affect data collection and monitoring
Concerns Raised by Agencies
- Risk of stagnation or reversal of progress in child survival.
- Many deaths could be avoided through low-cost interventions.
- Urgent need to strengthen healthcare systems globally.
Significance
- Highlights gaps in global health systems.
- Emphasises need for sustained international cooperation.
- Important for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially child health targets.
- Calls for renewed focus on affordable and accessible healthcare for children.