General Studies Paper-2

Context: Recently, the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) Chairperson acknowledged India’s strong position in global affairs, and pitched for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Need for Reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

• Outdated Power Structure: The current structure reflects the geopolitical realities of 1945, right after World War II.
  • The P5 members (USA, UK, France, Russia, China) hold permanent seats with veto power, even though the global balance of power has shifted significantly. The Council doesn’t represent the world’s current economic and political realities.
• Lack of Representation: Africa and Latin America have no permanent representation, even though they comprise a significant portion of the global population and contribute to peacekeeping and economic development.
  • Developing countries are underrepresented, reducing the legitimacy and moral authority of the UNSC.
• Questionable Legitimacy and Effectiveness: The veto power of P5 members often leads to deadlock, preventing effective action in crises (e.g., Syria, Ukraine).
• Greater Global Participation: More inclusive membership would ensure broader consensus, diverse viewpoints, and shared responsibility for global peace and security.

India’s Bid for Permanent Membership in the UNSC

• Demographic & Economic Strength: As the world’s most populous country and the fifth-largest economy, India wields significant regional and global influence.
  • Its market size, technological prowess, and strategic capabilities make it a vital player in global decision-making.
• Global Peacekeeping Role: India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces, with over 250,000 troops deployed in 49 of the 71 peacekeeping missions to date.
• Democratic Credentials: As the world’s largest democracy, India’s inclusion is argued to bring democratic balance to a Council that includes authoritarian states.
• Nuclear Responsibility: India is a nuclear-armed state but adheres to a ‘No First Use’ doctrine and remains committed to non-proliferation, even though it is not a signatory to the NPT, which it criticizes as discriminatory.
• Support from Major Powers: India has garnered support from four of the five P5 members — the United States, Russia, France, and the United Kingdom — all of whom recognize India’s growing global footprint.

India’s Aspirational Role in Global Governance

• Multipolarity, Not Unipolarity: India argues for a system where power is more diffused and representative.
• Global South Solidarity: Championing causes like development, food security, climate justice, and debt relief for less-developed nations.
• During India’s G20 Presidency, it brought the African Union into the group as a permanent member, a historic step toward inclusivity.
• India’s focus on the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) model and vaccine equity underscored its ambition to provide scalable, open-source solutions to global challenges.
• Strategic Autonomy: India insists on a sovereign path, resisting alignment with any one bloc.
• Democratization of Institutions: From the UNSC to the IMF, India seeks structural reforms to increase the representation of developing nations.

Opposition and Challenges

• Consensus on Reforms: UNSC reforms require a two-thirds majority in the General Assembly (129 of 193 members) and the approval of all P5 members.
• India has found support from various regional blocs, including the African Union, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and ASEAN members.
• China Factor: China, the only P5 member not in favour of India’s bid, remains the biggest impediment. Its geopolitical rivalry with India, border disputes, and strategic alignment with Pakistan shape its opposition.
• Strategic Ambiguity: India is a member of the QUAD (with the US, Japan, and Australia), it also engages actively with BRICS, which includes Russia and China—two nations with divergent views from the West.
• Role of G4: India is part of the G4 group (India, Germany, Brazil, and Japan) that collectively seeks permanent seats.
• However, their candidatures are opposed by a counter-group, United for Consensus (aka Coffee Club), including Italy, Pakistan, Mexico, and Egypt who argue for equitable regional representation instead of new permanent members.
• Slow Progress in Reform: The Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) process has seen limited tangible outcomes, despite ongoing discussions.
• Critics argue that the debate often leads to endless discussions rather than concrete action.

Conclusion

• India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UNSC reflects its growing global stature and commitment to multilateralism.
• While challenges remain, continued diplomatic efforts and international support could pave the way for a more inclusive and representative Security Council.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: Under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)-led Sahyog portal, the government has issued 130 content notices to online platforms like Google, YouTube, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft in the last 6 months.

About

• These notices effectively act as content blocking orders and are sent under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
• These fall outside Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, which has been commonly used to issue online censorship orders.
• As per Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, online intermediaries can lose their safe harbour protections if they fail to block access to content which has been flagged by an “appropriate” government agency.
• Safe harbor protections provide legal immunity to social media platforms for third-party user-generated content.

Legal Framework: Section 69A vs. Section 79(3)(b)

• Section 69A of the IT Act, 2000: This section empowers the government to block public access to content on the internet in certain circumstances, such as concerns over national security, sovereignty, public order, or to prevent incitement.
  • It includes safeguards as laid out by the Supreme Court in the Shreya Singhal case (2015).
  • A reasoned order explaining the necessity of blocking content.
  • The person or entity affected should have a chance to contest the order.
• Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act: This section deals with the liability of intermediaries (such as platforms like X Corp) for third-party content.
  • It exempts platforms from liability for illegal content unless they fail to act swiftly to remove or disable access to that content when notified by the government.
  • Intermediaries argue that this provision should not be used to directly block content, as it is not intended for that purpose.

Digital content censorship

• Digital content censorship refers to the control of online content by governments, organizations, or other entities. This includes:
• Blocking websites and apps
• Removal of social media content
• Regulation of OTT (Over-The-Top) streaming platforms
• Restrictions on digital news and journalism

Legal Framework Governing Digital Censorship in India

• Right to Freedom of Speech (Article 19(1)(a)): Subject to reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) concerning decency, morality, and public order.
• Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000: Section 69A grants the government power to block online content for security or public order concerns.
• Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code, 2021: Regulates social media, OTT platforms, and digital news media.
• Self-Regulation by OTT Platforms: Platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime follow self-regulatory frameworks such as the Digital Publishers Content Grievances Council (DPCGC).
• The Central Board of Film Certification (“CBFC”), which was established by the Cinematographic Act, of 1952, is responsible for censoring movies in India.

Challenges in Digital Censorship in India

• Balancing Freedom of Speech & Regulation: Over-regulation can suppress creativity, while under-regulation can spread harmful content.
• Transparency & Accountability: Content moderation and censorship decisions often lack clear guidelines, raising concerns about misuse.
• Jurisdictional Issues: Many digital platforms operate from outside India, making enforcement difficult.
• Technological Advancements: The rapid evolution of digital media complicates consistent and fair regulation.
• Ethical Concerns: The subjective nature of obscenity laws can lead to arbitrary censorship.

Way Forward

• Strengthening Independent Regulatory Bodies: Ensuring that courts and neutral institutions review censorship decisions.
• Enhancing Transparency in Content Moderation: Digital platforms should publish periodic transparency reports on content takedowns.
• Encouraging Digital Literacy: Educating citizens to identify fake news rather than enforcing restrictive censorship.
• Public Consultation in Policymaking: Involving journalists, legal experts, and civil society in framing digital content regulations.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: As per the report released by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region has seen its third consecutive below-normal snow year in 2025.

Findings

• The report used a 23-year time series (from 2003 to 2025) of basin-scale snow persistence during the snow season between November and March.
• All three major river basins — Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra — are experiencing significant declines in snow persistence.
• Snow persistence across the Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) was at a two-decade low of 23.6%.
• Snow persistence in the Ganga basin – 24.1 per cent below normal – was the lowest in 23 years.
• The snow persistence in the Indus basin declined to 24.5 per cent below normal, from a high of 19.5 per cent above normal in 2020.
• The report recorded a bigger decline across the Mekong (51.9 per cent), Salween (48.3 per cent), and Tibetan Plateau (29.1 per cent) river basins in South East Asia.
• Continued deficit of seasonal meltwater means lesser river runoffs and early-summer water stress, especially for downstream communities.
• Recommendations:
  • improved water management,
  • stronger drought preparedness,
  • better early warning systems,
  • and greater regional cooperation.
• Long-term resilience will depend on adopting science-led, forward-looking policies, and investing in seasonal water storage, efficient use of meltwater, and integrated water management strategies.

Snow Persistence

• Snow persistence is the fraction of time snow is on the ground. When this snow melts, it provides water to people and ecosystems.
• In the river basins of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH), snowmelt is the biggest source of water in the streams.
• Overall, it contributes 23% of the runoff to the region’s 12 major river basins every year.

Hindu Kush Himalaya

• The HKH mountains extend around 3,500 km over eight countries — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Pakistan.
• These mountains are also called the “water towers of Asia” because they are the origins of 10 crucial river systems on the continent — Amu Darya, Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra, Irrawaddy, Salween, Mekong, Yangtse, Yellow river, and Tarim.
• These river basins provide water to almost one-fourth of the world’s population and are a significant freshwater source for people in the HKH region.

Way Ahead

• In the long term reforestation with native tree species can help the ground retain more snow.
• Better weather forecasting and early warning systems can also help local communities prepare for impending water stress.
• Improving water infrastructure and developing policies for protecting areas receiving snowfall are important for long-term change.
• Communities’ involvement in local, national level decision-making and promoting regional cooperation are vital for comprehensive solutions for the sustainability of snow.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: ISRO’s study using satellite data has estimated India’s total wheat production for the 2024-25 Rabi season at 122.724 million tonnes from eight major wheat-growing states.

About the study

• It used the Comprehensive Remote Sensing Observation on Crop Progress (CROP) framework, which employs Optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) datasets from EOS-04, EOS-06, and Resourcesat-2A to monitor wheat sowing and crop conditions in near real-time.
• CROP is a semi-automated, scalable framework, developed by NRSC/ISRO that enables the near real-time monitoring of crop sowing and harvesting during the Rabi season across India.
• As of March 31, 2025, the wheat sown area was 330.8 lakh hectares, closely matching the Ministry of Agriculture’s data.

Importance and Need of  Space Technology in Agriculture Sector

• India’s agricultural sector is vital for livelihoods but faces pressure from a growing population and shrinking natural resources.
• To ensure sustainability, optimized planning and smart resource management are essential.
• Space-based technologies such as satellite imaging, remote sensing, GNSS, and geolocation offer powerful tools for monitoring large, diverse areas.
• It Improves crop monitoring, resource use, and weather forecasting.
• It supports informed decision-making for farmers, researchers, and policymakers.

Applications

• Precision Agriculture : Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) enables accurate field mapping and resource allocation.
  • It helps in precise irrigation, nutrient management, and crop planning.
  • It boosts yields and resource efficiency.
• Improved Connectivity : Satellite-based networks provide real-time access to weather, prices, and expert advice.
  • Remote Sensing & Satellite Imaging : It tracks crop health, vegetation, and land use.
  • It detects disease early for targeted pest control and reduced pesticide use.
• Hyperspectral Imaging: It offers detailed plant health insights by detecting subtle physiological changes.
  • More effective than traditional spectral sensors.
• Water & Soil Management: It supports efficient irrigation, groundwater conservation, and soil moisture tracking.
  • It aids in combating erosion, land degradation, and promoting soil conservation.

Related steps

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has actively adopted space technology since the 1980s for improving agricultural planning and productivity.
• In 2012, the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC) was established to operationalize ISRO’s space technology for crop forecasting.
• The Soil and Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) uses satellite data for soil resource mapping.
• Krishi-DSS is a first-of-its-kind geospatial platform specifically designed for Indian agriculture. The platform provides seamless access to comprehensive data including satellite images, weather information, reservoir storage, groundwater levels and soil health information, which can be easily accessed from anywhere at any time.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• Space technology holds immense promise for the future of agriculture.
• By harnessing the power of satellite imagery and data, the agricultural sector can achieve significant improvements in productivity, sustainability, and economic value.
• Their growing adoption will play a crucial role in ensuring food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla outlined a comprehensive roadmap for achieving the national vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.

About

• India’s vision for 2047, known as ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India), aims to transform the nation into a developed economy by the time it celebrates its 100th anniversary of its independence.
• The four pillars of Viksit Bharat are Yuva (Youth), Garib (Poor), Mahila (Women) and Kisan (Framers).
• It requires comprehensive efforts across various sectors, including economic growth, social equity, global competitiveness, environmental sustainability, industrial modernization and good governance.

Major Highlights

• Economic Growth Trajectory: Growth rate increased from 2.9% (1951–52) to 7.6% (2023–24).
• GDP to surpass USD 7 trillion by 2030 and projected to reach USD 34.7 trillion by 2047, as per the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI).
• Per Capita Income: Estimated to reach USD 4,667 by 2030 and USD 21,000 by 2047.
• Sectoral Contributions to GDP (By 2047):
  • Agriculture: From 20% (FY23) to 12%.
  • Industrial Sector: To reach 34%.
  • Manufacturing Sector: To reach 25%.
  • Services Sector: Stable at around 54%.
• Key Enablers:
  • Ease of doing business.
  • Global scalability of promising sectors to become MNCs.
  • Development of the semiconductor industry.
  • Support for the startup ecosystem.
  • Export capacity building.
  • Reforms in agriculture and food processing.
  • Filling vacant positions in government (National and State levels).
  • Digital transformation acceleration.
  • Boost to the renewable energy sector.
  • Investment in physical infrastructure.
• Global Standing Goals: 2nd largest Economy in Asia-Pacific by 2030.
  • 3rd largest economy globally by 2030.
• Renewable Energy Goals: India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy.
• Government target: 500 GW of installed renewable capacity by 2030.
• PHDCCI projections: 900 GW by 2040 and 1500 GW by 2047.
• Digital & AI Adoption: Internet usage rose from 8% in 2010 to 52% in 2024, projected to reach 82% by 2047.
  • Projected to rank among the top 5 globally in AI readiness by 2047.
• India’s Innovation-Driven Growth: Global Innovation Index rank improved from 52nd in 2019 to 39th in 2024.
  • PHDCCI projects India will be among the top 5 innovation leaders by 2047.
  • The semiconductor industry is projected to reach USD 750 billion by 2047.

Government Initiatives

• Impact of Government Initiatives: Make in India, Digital India, Gati Shakti, Bharatmala, Udaan Yojana, and electronic manufacturing clusters are reshaping infrastructure and commerce.
• Policy Reforms:
  • Simplification of industrial policies.
  • Transparent tax regime.
  • Single-window clearance system.
  • All contributing to a more business-friendly environment.

Conclusion

• India is progressing steadily toward economic prosperity and innovation leadership.
• Marked by resilience, adaptability, and focus on inclusive growth.
• Positioned to become a key global economic player by 2047.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: India reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive, equitable and sustainable agriculture at the 15th meeting of BRICS Agriculture Ministers in Brasilia, Brazil.

Key Highlights

• BRICS Agriculture Ministers launched the BRICS Land Restoration Partnership to address land degradation, desertification, and the loss of soil fertility.
• In the Joint Declaration, BRICS nations collectively reiterated their resolve to make the global agri-food system fair, inclusive, innovative, and sustainable.
• India’s Stand: Empowering the Backbone of Agriculture
• India highlighted the need to socially, economically and politically empower small and marginal farmers, especially women, at the center of global agricultural strategies.
• The world’s 510 million smallholder farmers are the backbone of the global food system and are also the most vulnerable in the face of climate change, price volatility, and resource scarcity.

What is Sustainable Agriculture?

• Sustainable agriculture refers to farming practices that meet today’s food needs while preserving resources for future generations.
• This means adopting methods that protect the environment, reduce reliance on chemical inputs, and use water and land efficiently.
• This approach is designed to maintain a balance between productivity, environmental health, and socio-economic equity.

Need of Sustainable Agriculture

• Over-dependence on Rainfall: Indian agriculture is largely rain-fed, with around 60% of the cultivated area depending on monsoon rains.
• Agricultural Price Volatility: Price volatility forces farmers to sell their produce at low prices during peak harvest seasons.
  • Limited agricultural processing capacity and low levels of mechanization leads to post-harvest losses. Farmers are also unable to add value to their produce, leading to lower returns.
• Access to Finance: Small farmers face difficulties in accessing credit and financial services.

Initiatives taken for sustainable agriculture

• Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs): FPOs have emerged as a key tool to support small and marginal farmers by aggregating their produce, providing access to technology, and improving their market presence.
• Warehouse Receipt Financing: Warehouse receipt financing allows farmers to store their produce and sell it later when prices are more favorable.
  • National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) focuses on promoting climate-resilient farming, efficient water use, and soil health management.
  • National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) strengthens agricultural resilience through climate-focused research, technology demonstration, and capacity building.
  • Bio-fertilizers are promoted to reduce chemical usage and enhance soil microbial health.

Concluding remarks

• The 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting marks a collective step towards redefining the global food system—making it more just, resilient, and farmer-centric.
• For India, the summit reaffirmed the vision of an agriculture-led inclusive growth model, placing smallholder farmers and sustainability at the heart of policymaking.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: Recent developments indicate that the Indian government may be losing momentum in its disinvestment drive, raising concerns about its long-term economic implications.

About the Disinvestment Strategy in India

• Disinvestment refers to the process through which the government sells or liquidates its ownership stake in public sector enterprises (PSEs).
• It aims at promoting efficiency, enhancing competitiveness, and generating non-tax revenue.
• In India, disinvestment began during the Economic Reforms of 1991, aimed to reduce the fiscal burden and bring in managerial efficiency.
• It is spearheaded by the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), Ministry of Finance.
• As per DIPAM, the objectives include:
  • Reducing the fiscal burden on the exchequer;
  • Improving public finance;
  • Encouraging wider shareholding in public enterprises;
  • Introducing private sector efficiency into PSEs;
  • Unlocking value from underperforming assets;
  • DIPAM manages government equity in CPSEs and ensures transparency in the sale of shares or assets.

Types of Disinvestment

• Minority Disinvestment: Government retains control.
• Majority Disinvestment: Transfer of management control.
• Strategic Disinvestment: Complete transfer of ownership and control.

Changing Approach to Disinvestment 

• Policy Evolution: The 2021-22 Budget introduced a new public sector policy, emphasizing minimal government presence in CPSEs.
  • It proposed to have a minimal presence in strategic sectors.
  • In non-strategic sectors, the CPSEs will be either privatised or closed down.
• Shift Toward Value Creation: Officials have reiterated that the focus remains on value creation rather than explicit disinvestment targets.
  • The government raised only ₹10,000 crore through disinvestment in 2024-25, despite a vibrant equity market.
  • It is important to note that the overall fundraising in the equity market in 2024-25 stood at over ~3.7 trillion, which was about 90% higher than in the previous year.

Challenges in Disinvestment 

• Implementation Gaps: Despite integrating the DPE into the Ministry of Finance in 2021, progress on the new policy has been slow.
  • Disinvestment has often been driven by the need to reduce fiscal deficits rather than as a sustained policy objective.
• Political Resistance: Disinvestment has faced opposition, often portrayed as ‘selling the family silver’.
  • A lack of political consensus has hindered the aggressive pursuit of disinvestment programs.
• Economic Implications: CAG Report (2022) revealed that 198 government companies had accumulated losses exceeding ₹2 trillion, eroding the net worth of 88 companies.
  • These losses continue to burden the exchequer, underscoring the need for decisive action.
• Flexibility vs. Neglect: While the absence of explicit disinvestment targets allows flexibility, it risks neglecting this critical revenue stream.

Key Government Steps

• Merging of Related Departments: The Union government is in the process of merging two departments — the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) and DIPAM in the Ministry of Finance. The idea is to improve the efficiency and performance of CPSEs.
• Union Budget (2021-22): A Public Sector Policy stated that the government would minimise its presence in CPSEs.
  • It proposed to have a minimal presence in strategic sectors. Strategic sectors include atomic energy, space, defense, transport, telecommunications, power, petroleum, coal, and banking.
  • In non-strategic sectors, the CPSEs will be either privatised or closed down.

Other Important Initiatives

• Monetization of Idle Assets: The government has introduced a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to monetize surplus land and other non-core assets of CPSEs.
  • It aims to unlock the value of idle assets and generate additional revenue.
• Incentives for States: The government has proposed an incentive package of central funds to encourage states to disinvest their public sector enterprises.
• Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and Strategic Sales: The government has utilized methods like IPOs, Offer for Sale (OFS), and strategic sales to divest its stake in CPSEs.
  • Key examples include the privatization of Air India and the proposed IPO of Life Insurance Corporation (LIC).
• National Investment Fund (NIF): It was established in 2005, that channels proceeds from disinvestment into developmental projects and social sector programs.

Way Forward 

• Targeted Approach: The government should prioritize disinvestment in non-strategic sectors while retaining control in areas critical to national security and public welfare.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Transparent communication with employees, unions, and the public can help address concerns and build consensus.
• Strengthening DIPAM: DIPAM must streamline processes and ensure timely execution of disinvestment plans.

Conclusion

• The merger of DPE and Dipam marks a significant step in redefining the government’s approach to CPSEs.
• While the focus on value creation is commendable, the merits of an aggressive disinvestment program cannot be overlooked.
• Achieving a balance between managing CPSEs and pursuing disinvestment will require political will, strategic planning, and efficient execution.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: In India, the government has been working to transform primary health care through innovative policies and programs, addressing challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and visibility.

About the Primary Healthcare in India

• According to WHO, Primary Health Care (PHC) is a whole-of-society approach to effectively organize and strengthen national health systems to bring services for health and wellbeing closer to communities.
• It aims to provide accessible, affordable, and comprehensive services to all citizens.
• It focuses on promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care, ensuring equitable access to essential health services.
• Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 identified PHC as essential health care based on scientifically sound and socially acceptable methods.

Key Concerns in Primary Healthcare

• Urban vs. Rural Divide: Urban slums, while geographically closer to tertiary care centers, still face issues of affordability and overcrowding.
  • Rural areas house over 65% of the population but suffer from shortage of PHCs and trained medical personnel, along with poor transport connectivity.
• Human Resource Shortages (2023–24):
  • Shortfall of 77% surgeons, 69% obstetricians, 70% physicians at Community Health Centres.
  • 10–25% staff nurse vacancies in many states.
• Burden of NCDs and Mental Health: PHCs are now expected to manage lifestyle diseases and mental health concerns.
• However, limited staff training and infrastructure often hinder effective response.

Key Government Initiatives

• National Health Mission: India has a vast network of Sub-Centres (SCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs).
  • These facilities serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services.
  • According to the National Health Mission, there are 1.6 lakh sub-centres, 26,636 PHCs, and 6,155 CHCs across the country.
• Ayushman Bharat Program (2018): It aims to transform primary healthcare through Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs).
  • HWCs provide services related to non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, mental health, and geriatric care.
• Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC): The National Health Policy 2017 emphasizes universal health coverage through CPHC.
  • It integrates traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) with modern healthcare.
• Focus on Underserved Areas: Initiatives like the Aspirational District Program (ADP) and Aspirational Block Program (ABP) aim to improve healthcare in underdeveloped regions.
• Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM): It focuses on equipping India’s health system with the necessary infrastructure, with an outlay of ₹64,180 crore.
• Women Led Initiatives:
  • Role of Self Help Groups (SHGs): Over 1.9 crore women are empowered through SHGs that promote awareness on PHC services.

Global Initiatives

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC): It aims to ensure that all individuals have access to quality health services without financial hardship.
  • Scaling up primary healthcare interventions in low- and middle-income countries could save 60 million lives and increase average life expectancy by 3.7 years by 2030.
• Global Health Programs: Programs like the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria focus on integrating primary healthcare with disease-specific interventions.
  • The Gavi Alliance supports immunization efforts, strengthening primary healthcare systems in developing countries.

Way Forward 

• Strengthening Infrastructure: Expanding the network of HWCs and ensuring their functionality in underserved areas is crucial.
  • Investments in telemedicine can bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access.
• Enhancing Awareness: Community outreach programs and health education campaigns can improve visibility and utilization of health services.
• Ensuring Affordability: Continued efforts to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and provide financial protection through schemes like PM-JAY are essential.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry emphasized the potential of India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a modern-day Silk Route aimed at connecting Asia with Europe through the Middle East.

About India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

• Establishment: The MoU signed by leaders from India, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the US at the G20 Summit (2023) in New Delhi directly points to the official announcement and initial steps for the IMEC.
• Aim: The description of a multi-modal connectivity project involving ports, railways, roads, sea lines, and pipelines to enhance trade between India, the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean region, and Europe perfectly aligns with the stated goals of the IMEC.
• Corridors: The division into an Eastern corridor (India to the Gulf) and a Northern corridor (the Gulf to Europe) is a key structural element of the IMEC.

Significance IMEC for India

• Strategic Geopolitical Influence:
  • Counter to China’s BRI: IMEC is viewed as a Western-backed alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), giving India a key role in shaping global connectivity.
  • Strengthens ties with West Asia and Europe: It enhances India’s diplomatic and trade engagement with countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and EU nations.
• Trade and Economic Boost:
  • Faster, cheaper trade routes: IMEC offers an efficient corridor for Indian exports to reach European markets through the Middle East, reducing transit time and cost.
  • Economic integration: Encourages foreign investment in India’s ports, railways, and logistics sectors, boosting employment and GDP.
• Energy Security:
  • Facilitates better energy cooperation, especially in green hydrogen, natural gas, and renewable energy, aligning with India’s transition to clean energy.
  • Enhances connectivity to Gulf energy hubs like Saudi Arabia and UAE.
• Digital Infrastructure and Technology:
  • Includes plans for digital connectivity (like fiber-optic cables) between India, Middle East, and Europe—critical for tech partnerships and cyber cooperation.
• Infrastructure and Maritime Development:
  • Boosts India’s port-led development under the Sagarmala Project by integrating Indian ports into global logistics chains. Logistics cost can be reduced up to 30%.
• Multilateral Cooperation:
  • Reinforces India’s image as a responsible global player and a vital link between Global South and Global North.
  • Encourages triangular cooperation with the US, EU, and Gulf nations.

Challenges

• Geopolitical Instability:
  • Ongoing conflicts like the Israel-Palestine crisis, the friction between Iran and Gulf nations, and general regional unrest can impact corridor planning and operations.
  • Issues like piracy, naval skirmishes, or blockades in these crucial chokepoints can seriously jeopardize smooth trade flow.
• Infrastructure and Funding Hurdles:
  • Setting up multimodal logistics points like ports, railways, energy systems, and digital networks requires a hefty investment from both public and private sectors.
  • Challenges such as land acquisition, getting regulatory approvals, and navigating bureaucratic red tape across various countries can slow down infrastructure development.
• Multinational Coordination:
  • IMEC brings together several sovereign nations (India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and EU countries), each with its own set of priorities, policies, and political landscapes.
• Technological and Digital Standardization:
  • The corridor features digital and energy elements, including data cables and green energy grids and ensures that everything works seamlessly while checking other technological challenges.
• Competition from Existing Routes:
  • Current maritime routes through the Suez Canal or even China’s BRI corridors might still be more affordable. India needs to make sure that IMEC is not only cost-effective but also logistically superior to draw in global businesses.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

• PM Modi was conferred ‘Mithra Vibhushana’ the country’s highest civilian honour medal by the Government of Sri Lanka.
• Energy Cooperation: Both the nations inked an agreement to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub and jointly inaugurated the Sampur solar power project, aimed at boosting Sri Lanka’s clean energy capacity.
  • A grid interconnectivity deal was also signed, opening the door for Sri Lanka to potentially export electricity to India in the future.
• Railway Connectivity: An upgraded northern railway line between Maho and Omanthai, enhancing connectivity between the North Central and Northern Provinces was jointly inaugurated, along with an upgraded railway signalling system at Anuradhapura railway station.
• Comprehensive MoU on defence cooperation: The umbrella agreement consolidates various existing defence-related understandings into a coherent framework, enabling structured dialogue.

India and Sri Lanka Relations

• Trade Relations: India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA) in 2000 contributed significantly towards the expansion of trade between the two countries.
  • India has traditionally been among Sri Lanka’s largest trade partners and Sri Lanka remains among the largest trade partners of India in the SAARC.
  • India is also one of the largest contributors to Foreign Direct Investment in Sri Lanka.
• Cultural relations: The Cultural Cooperation Agreement signed in 1977 forms the basis for periodic Cultural Exchange Programmes between the two countries.
  • The Buddhist and Tamil links enhance people-to-people connect and soft power.
• Tourism: India has traditionally been Sri Lanka’s top inbound tourism market, followed by China.
  • As per latest data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, India is the largest source for tourists in 2023.
• Maritime Security and Defence Cooperation: In 2011, a decision was taken to establish the Colombo Security Conclave which aims to further promote maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
  • India and Sri Lanka conduct a joint Military exercise named ‘Mitra Shakti’, Trilateral Maritime Exercise “Dosti”, and a Naval exercise named SLINEX.
• Multilateral Forum Collaboration: India and Sri Lanka are member nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme, South Asian Economic Union and BIMSTEC, working to enhance cultural and commercial ties.

Areas of Concern

• The Fishermen Issue: Sri Lanka’s proximity to Indian territorial waters has often blurred the line for fishermen on both sides in pursuit of fish stock.
• Rise of China: China’s increasing strategic investments in vital maritime ports in the IOR has been an area of concern.
  • Strategic infrastructure projects like Hambantota Port, leased to China for 99 years.
• Trade and Economic Imbalances: CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) talks stalled.
• Slow Progress in Development Projects: Indian-funded projects like Jaffna Cultural Centre, Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm, and housing schemes face bureaucratic delays.
• Internal Instability in Sri Lanka: 2022 economic crisis led to massive unrest which caused a spillover effect on the Tamil Nadu coast and refugee inflow.

Way Ahead

• India–Sri Lanka relations, rooted in geography and history, must now evolve through shared economic prosperity, strategic cooperation, and people-centric development.
• The strengthened ties between both the nations will ensure mutual growth and regional stability in line with India’s Neighbourhood First and SAGAR visions.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the growing relevance of the Northeast – as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

About

• EAM was virtually addressing a meeting of ambassadors for the upcoming North East Investors Summit 2025.
• It was organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
• He said the northeast region is at the heart of many key Indian policies — Neighbourhood First, Act East or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

North Eastern Region (NER)

• The NER comprises eight States viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
• This region is culturally and ethnically diverse having more than 200 ethnic groups which have distinct languages, dialects and socio-cultural identities.
• The Region covers 7.97% of the country’s geographical area and 3.78% of its population.
• It has 5,484 km of international border viz. Bangladesh (1,880 km), Myanmar (1,643 km), China (1,346 km), Bhutan (516 km) and Nepal (99 km).

How is it a gateway to South East Asia?

• NER has the potential to become a vibrant link between India and East/Southeast Asia.
  • BIMSTEC, especially countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bhutan, can facilitate cross-border connectivity.
• Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project: It is aimed at connecting the port of Kolkata with the port of Sittwe in Rakhine which would then be connected to Mizoram by road and the Kaladan river which flows by Paletwa.
  • Sea route: Kolkata – Sittwe (Myanmar).
  • River route: Sittwe – Paletwa.
  • Road route: Paletwa – Zorinpui (Mizoram border).
• India-Myanmar-Thailand highway: The 1,400-km-long highway that connects the three nations is nearly 70% completed, but the rest of the work has been affected at several places due to political changes in Myanmar since the military coup in 2021.
• Motor Vehicles Agreements (MVA): Crucial for seamless cross-border movement of goods and people. Two MVAs in progress:
  • BBIN MVA (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal)
  • India-Myanmar-Thailand MVA.
• Modern investments come via Japan’s Overseas Development Assistance (ODA):
  • India-Japan Act East Forum (established 2017).
  • Facilitates infrastructure and cultural connectivity projects in the NER.

Concerns

• Connectivity corridors (road and rail) are key to integrating India with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and ASEAN countries.
  • Mountainous terrain makes railway construction challenging in the NER.
• Insurgent groups disrupt progress, including abductions of Indian workers.
• Myanmar’s ongoing political turmoil hampers project completion and cooperation.
• Motor Vehicles Agreements (MVA): Bhutan withdrew from BBIN MVA over environmental concerns.
  • Thailand is hesitant due to potential disadvantages for local businesses.

Way Ahead

• Historically neglected, the northeast has gained prominence in recent decades.
• Its strategic value has increased due to India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and evolving Indo-Pacific geopolitical dynamics.
• The region is now seen as a vital gateway for India’s regional connectivity initiatives.
• Ongoing connectivity efforts require capacity-building for rail and road projects and improved border infrastructure.
• The overarching goal is to maximise the multi-dimensional potential of the northeast and cement its role as a regional connectivity hub.