General Studies Paper -3

Context: A new study by the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), has expressed concern over the translocation of the African cheetahs to India.

About

• The study examines the ethical, ecological and welfare challenges associated with the translocation of African cheetahs to India.
• Project Cheetah Overview: 20 African cheetahs (8 from Namibia in Sept 2022, and 12 from South Africa in Feb 2023) were introduced into Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Importation Plans: Plans to import 12 cheetahs annually until a viable population is established.

Major Highlights

• Challenges Faced by Cheetahs: The cheetahs have experienced significant stress, with over 90 immobilisations and frequent veterinary care.
  • The mortality rate was 40%-50% in the first phase of the project, far below the expected survival rate of 85%.
  • The project has raised concerns about the physical and mental health of the cheetahs due to their ongoing stress.
• Challenges of the Project:
  • Conservation Challenges: African cheetah populations are already at risk, with only around 6,500 mature individuals left in the wild.
  • Sustainability Issues: Reliance on continuous imports from Africa is seen as ecologically unsustainable and ethically problematic.

Cheetah

• Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), is one of the world’s most-recognizable cats, known especially for its speed. In India, the cheetah population used to be fairly widespread.
• The cheetah is believed to have disappeared from the Indian landscape in 1947 when Maharaja Ramanuj Pratap Singh Deo of Koriya princely state hunted down and shot the last three recorded Asiatic cheetahs in India.

1. The cheetah was officially declared extinct by the Indian government in 1952.

• Since the 1940s, the cheetah has gone extinct in 14 other countries – Jordan, Iraq, Israel, Morocco, Syria, Oman, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Ghana, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Reason for Extinction

• Over-hunting was a major contributing factor.
• The decimation of its relatively narrow prey base species and
• The loss of its grassland-forest habitat.

Difference between Asiatic Cheetah and African Cheetah

Suggestions

• Call for Justice-Informed Approach: Researchers advocate for a more inclusive and participatory conservation model, considering diverse knowledge systems, values, and local consent.
• Focus on Sustainable Coexistence: Conservation efforts should aim at maintaining sustainable spaces for both humans and wildlife, rather than causing division and distress.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India and Qatar have signed an agreement to elevate their ties to the level of a strategic partnership.

• Both countries commemorated the 50 years of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2023.

Key Outcomes

• Both countries are exploring the option of concluding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• Two sides also signed a double taxation avoidance treaty and also planned on doubling their trade to $28 billion within five years.
• Both sides discussed the Israel-Palestinian conflict in Gaza Strip.
• India currently has strategic partnerships with four other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council – the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.
• Significance of the Visit:
• Arab States Summit: The visit of the Qatari Emir has drawn attention as it is being held just two days prior to the five Arab states summit in Riyadh.
  • The summit will take up the new proposals from the United States.
• US Proposal on Gaza Crisis: President Trump’s proposed that the Palestinians of the region should be shifted out to neighbouring countries like Egypt and Jordan.
  • India supports a two-state solution in bringing an end to the Israel-Palestinian crisis and has welcomed the ceasefire that was announced recently.

Brief on India-Qatar Relations

• Economic and Trade Relations: Qatar is the largest provider of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to India, supplying 10.91 million metric tonnes of LNG and 4.92 million metric tonnes of LPG in FY 2023-24.
• The current annual trade is worth $14.08 billion.
• Defence: India participates in the biennial Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX).
  • Exercise Zair-Al-Bahr is a joint naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Qatar Emiri Naval Force (QENF).
  • The India-Qatar Defence Cooperation Agreement was signed in 2008 and extended for five years in 2018.
  • The agreement is managed through the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).
• Labor and Diaspora: India has a large expatriate community in Qatar, numbering over 700,000.
  • The Indian diaspora in Qatar plays a crucial role in the country’s development, particularly in construction and other sectors.
• Regional Cooperation: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a political and economic alliance of six Middle Eastern countries—Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. It was established in 1981.
  • India engages regularly with GCC and aims to deepen its relationship with the GCC.

Challenges/Concerns

• The Hamas–Israel conflict and shipping attacks in the Red Sea affect India’s energy security and economic growth.
• India remains cautious in Middle Eastern politics, balancing relations with the Gulf, Iran, and Israel.
• If the conflict escalates, this balancing act could become more challenging.
• Delay in Connectivity Projects: The conflict has delayed a senior-officials meeting for the I2U2 group since 2023.
  • India urges economic initiatives like I2U2 and IMEC to progress despite the conflict.
• FTAs with GCC: Delays in finalizing the India–GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) due to changes in the GCC’s trade negotiator.
  • Reaching an agreement that satisfies all GCC states remains a key challenge.

Way Forward 

• Growing security challenges are increasing the need for India to be a key strategic partner of Gulf states.
• India aims to expand its regional presence and influence.
• Stronger alignment in political, economic, and security interests is shaping a new framework for India-Gulf relations.

If maintained, this framework will boost trust and enable more ambitious cooperation.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The Union Government has approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) Scheme during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle up to 2025-26.

PM-AASHA Scheme

• The scheme was launched in 2018 as an umbrella scheme to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) to farmers, particularly for pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
• It aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers and price stability in the agricultural sector.

Components of PM-AASHA

• Price Support Scheme (PSS): The government procures pulses, oilseeds, and copra at MSP.
  • The Central Nodal Agencies (CNAs) conduct procurement in collaboration with state agencies.
• Only produce meeting Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards is procured.
• Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS): It directs compensation payments to pre-registered farmers for the difference between MSP and the market price.
  • There is no physical procurement of produce.
  • It applies to oilseeds and requires transactions through a transparent auction process in notified market yards.
• Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPSS) (Pilot Basis): It allows states to involve private stockists for oilseed procurement.
  • It is implemented in selected Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) or districts.

Key Changes in the scheme

• In 2024 the Government converged the Price Support Scheme (PSS) & Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) schemes in PM AASHA to serve the farmers and consumers more efficiently.
  • It will help in protecting consumers from extreme volatility in prices of agri-horticultural commodities by maintaining strategic buffer stock of pulses and onion for calibrated release; to discourage hoarding, unscrupulous speculation; and for supplies to consumers at affordable prices.
• The Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) was made a component of the integrated scheme of PM-AASHA.
  • The scheme is for perishable agricultural and horticultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and tomatoes.
  • It is implemented when prices fall by at least 10% from the previous normal season.

Significance of the Scheme

• Ensures price support to farmers, reducing distress sales.
• Enhances procurement efficiency through market-based interventions.
• Increases farmer participation in transparent marketing systems.
• Prevents extreme price fluctuations, protecting both producers and consumers.

Concerns

• Limited implementation: PDPS and PPSS have seen low adoption by states.
• Procurement constraints: MSP coverage is not uniform across all crops and regions.
• Awareness and accessibility issues: Many farmers lack awareness or face bureaucratic hurdles in registration.
• Budgetary concerns: Ensuring adequate funding for procurement operations remains a challenge.

Concluding remarks

• The extension of PM-AASHA till 2025-26 reaffirms the government’s commitment to farmers’ income security and agriculture market reforms.
• Strengthening its implementation and addressing challenges can enhance its impact in ensuring remunerative prices for farmers.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister has announced plans to expand work-from-home (WFH) opportunities, particularly targeting women professionals in the state.

About

• The Andhra Pradesh IT & Global Capability Centres (GCC) Policy 4.0 is designed to attract top IT companies and facilitate employment growth.
• A key feature of the policy is encouraging corporations to provide WFH options more liberally. This move aims to:
• Foster work-life balance for women professionals.
• Ensure equal access to growth opportunities in science and technology fields.
• Make employment more accessible for women with familial responsibilities.

Policy on Work-from-Home in India

• Unlike some countries with formal remote work regulations, India does not have explicit laws governing WFH policies.
• Companies determine work hours and expectations through internal employment contracts.
• The government, however, has encouraged WFH in specific cases, such as maternity leave or roles that permit remote work.
• Despite the initial surge in WFH adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Indian IT firms have since mandated return-to-office policies.

Arguments in Favour of Work-from-Home

• Cost Savings: WFH has significantly reduced commuting costs and allowed employees to live in more affordable areas, leading to financial benefits for both individuals and organizations.
• Improved Work-Life Balance: WFH can offer greater flexibility to manage work and personal responsibilities, such as childcare or eldercare, which often disproportionately fall on women.
• Increased Flexibility: Employees can manage their time more efficiently, improving work-life balance, especially for women who juggle professional and personal responsibilities.
• Higher Energy Levels: Reduced travel time has enhanced employee productivity and well-being.
• Employer Benefits: Organizations benefit from reduced office rental costs and lower expenses related to client meetings.

Arguments against WFH

• Hindered Collaboration: The absence of physical interactions affects teamwork, trust-building, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Organizational Culture Challenges: WFH weakens social, emotional, and human capital formation, impacting long-term workplace cohesion.
• Lack of Recognition: WFH can make it harder for women to be visible and recognized for their contributions, potentially leading to missed opportunities for promotions and raises.

Way Ahead

• Implement Hybrid Models: A mix of remote and in-office work can provide flexibility while maintaining collaboration.
• Invest in Digital Infrastructure: Enhanced communication tools can bridge the gap in teamwork and productivity.
• Develop Inclusive Policies: Organizations should ensure that remote workers, especially women, receive equal opportunities for growth and leadership roles.

Concluding remarks

• Andhra Pradesh’s WFH initiative for women has the potential to set a precedent for gender-inclusive employment policies in India.
• However, achieving long-term success will require strategic implementation and continuous evaluation of its impact on productivity and workforce engagement.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) recently celebrated its ninth anniversary, marking nearly a decade of empowering Indian farmers with comprehensive crop insurance.

About PMFBY

• Launch: 2016 by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Coverage: All farmers, including sharecroppers and tenant farmers, growing notified crops in designated areas.
• Crops Covered:
• Food Crops (Cereals, Millets & Pulses)
• Oilseeds
• Annual Commercial & Horticultural Crops

Risks Covered

• Yield Losses (Standing Crops): Losses due to non-preventable risks like drought, flood, pests, and diseases.
• Prevented Sowing: Compensation when farmers cannot sow due to adverse weather conditions.
• Post-Harvest Losses: Coverage for crop losses within 14 days of harvesting due to natural calamities.
• Localized Calamities: Damage due to hailstorms, landslides, cloudbursts, etc.

Implementation & Coverage Growth (2016–2024)

• Farmer Enrollment: Over 40 crore farmer applications registered.
• Land Coverage: More than 30 crore hectares of farmland insured.
  • Affordable Premium & High Claims Settled:
  • Farmers paid over ₹29,000 crore as premiums.
  • Over ₹50 lakh crore in claims disbursed, proving it to be a pro-farmer initiative.
• Customized Insurance Plans: State-specific schemes and cluster-based models enhance efficiency.
• Inclusive Growth: More than 70% of beneficiaries are small and marginal farmers.
• Climate Risk Mitigation: Addresses challenges like erratic monsoons, droughts, floods, and unseasonal rains.

Technological Advancements

• AI & Geo tagging: Enhance accuracy in crop loss assessment by enabling precise damage verification and yield estimation.
• CCE-Agri App & YES-TECH: Mobile-based tools to record Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) and estimate yields.
• National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP): Centralized platform for real-time monitoring and claims processing.
• Digital Claim Settlement: Faster payouts through mobile apps and online platforms.

Major Challenges

• Delays in Claim Settlement: Bureaucratic hurdles and disputes between insurance companies and state governments slow payouts.
• State Withdrawals & Implementation Issues: States like Bihar, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh withdrew due to financial concerns over premium subsidies.
• Low Awareness & Farmer Participation: Many farmers, especially in remote areas, remain unaware of the scheme’s benefits.
• Data & Technology Gaps: Lack of real-time weather data and delays in crop loss assessment impact claim processing.

Recent Reforms & Future Prospects

• PMFBY 2.0 – Restructured Guidelines (2020-21):
  • Voluntary Enrollment: Since 2020, participation has been made voluntary.
  • State Flexibility: States can customize insurance products to meet regional agricultural needs.
• Alignment with Climate Resilience Policies:
  • Linked with National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) to promote climate-resilient farming.
• Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS):
  • A weather index-based insurance scheme introduced alongside PMFBY.
  • Difference from PMFBY: RWBCIS calculates claims based on weather parameters rather than actual yield loss.

Way Forward

• Digitization: Expanding technology use for faster claim settlements.
• State Re-Engagement: Encouraging states that have withdrawn to rejoin.
• Private Sector Involvement: Incentivizing private insurers to offer region-specific solutions.
• Disaster Risk Reduction: Strengthening proactive risk mitigation strategies.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj has released the report titled ‘Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States – An Indicative Evidence-Based Ranking’ (2024).

About

• The devolution index is an approach in assessing the implementation of 73rd and 74th Amendments and is prepared by the Indian Institute of Public Administration.
• It evaluates the current state of power and resource devolution to Panchayati Raj Institutions across all States and Union Territories.
• States/UTs were ranked as per the six key dimensions of framework, functions, finances, functionaries, capacity enhancement, and accountability.

Need for the Assessment

• The mandatory constitutional provisions— such as regular Panchayat elections by state election commissions, reservations for SCs/STs and women, and the constitution of state finance commissions—have been implemented.
• The devolution of functions, finances, and functionaries to Panchayats has been inconsistent across States.
• The effective local governance cannot be achieved through these transfer mechanisms alone.
• It necessitates ‘capacity enhancement’ measures and ‘accountability’ to ensure fairness and transparency in Panchayat operations.

Major Findings

• Karnataka tops the overall Devolution Index (DI) ranking of the Panchayat Raj system among States, while Kerala and Tamil Nadu are in the second and third spot.
• Devolution has increased from 39.9% to 43.9% between the period 2013-14 to 2021-22.
• With the launch of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), the capacity enhancement component of the Index during this period has increased from 44% to 54.6%.
• During this period, the component of the Index pertaining to functionaries has seen a substantial jump of more than 10% (from 39.6% to 50.9%).
• In the framework criterion, Kerala ranks first followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Haryana.
• In the functional criterion, Tamil Nadu tops the list followed by Karnataka, Odisha, and Rajasthan.
• In the finances criterion, Karnataka has secured the top place followed by Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan.
• In the functionaries criterion, Gujarat ranks first followed by Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
• In the capacity building criterion, Telangana has secured the first spot followed by Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.

Challenges Identified in Report

• Legal and Institutional Gaps: Some states have not conducted regular panchayat elections.
  • Limited Role in Policy Implementation: Panchayats have a nominal role in major centrally sponsored schemes (MGNREGA, PMAY, NHM, etc.).
  • Some states perform significantly better due to strong governance structures and legal provisions, while others Disparities Among States: struggle due to poor implementation and political unwillingness.
• Low Public Participation: Gram Sabhas, which are essential for participatory governance, are often poorly attended and lack effectiveness.

Recommendations and Suggestions

• Strengthening the Legal Framework: Ensure regular and timely elections for panchayats.
  • Empower State Election Commissions (SECs) to function independently without state government interference.
• Financial Empowerment: Establish a Consolidated Fund for Local Government to provide direct and assured funding to panchayats.
  • Implement recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission to ensure panchayats receive an adequate share of GST revenues.
• Enhancing Functional Autonomy: Decentralize key service delivery functions to ensure panchayats play a leading role in rural development.
• Promoting Accountability & Transparency: Strengthen Gram Sabha participation by making them more accessible and effective.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for a “coordinated flotilla” to promote stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

His remarks highlight the growing geopolitical competition and security challenges in the region, necessitating multilateral maritime collaboration.

About the Indian Ocean

• Geographic Overview:
  • Third Largest Ocean: Spans 9,600 km from the Bay of Bengal to Antarctica and 7,800 km from South Africa to Western Australia.
    • Coastline: 70,000 km, including major economies like India, Australia, and African nations.
  • Population & Coastal Influence: Home to 35% of the world’s population and 40% of the global coastline.
• Historical & Civilizational Significance:
  • Named after India, reflecting its historical and cultural influence on maritime trade.
  • Served as a key trade route since the first millennium, connecting India with Arab lands, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
  • The Silk Route & Spice Trade flourished via the Indian Ocean, linking Europe, Asia, and Africa.
• Strategic Importance:
  • A critical global trade route, facilitating 70% of the world’s container traffic.
  • 80% of India’s external trade and 90% of its energy imports pass through the Indian Ocean.
  • Key oil supply routes from West Asia to India, China, Japan, and Europe traverse the region.
• Control of Maritime Chokepoints: India’s central position in IOR provides strategic leverage over:
• Strait of Hormuz (Iran-Oman) – Vital for oil shipments.
• Bab el-Mandeb (Yemen-Djibouti) – Entry to the Red Sea & Suez Canal.
• Strait of Malacca (Indonesia-Malaysia) – Key trade passage for East Asia.

Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

• Maritime Security Threats: Frequent pirate attacks & trafficking, particularly near Somalia and the Gulf of Aden.
• Economic & Environmental Issues: Overfishing and deep-sea mining threaten marine ecosystems.
• Climate Change & Rising Sea Levels: Small island nations face coastal erosion and submersion risks.
• Humanitarian Crises & Disasters: Natural disasters like cyclones, tsunamis, and oil spills require coordinated disaster response.
• Geopolitical Rivalries: Growing influence of the U.S., China, UK, and France fuels power struggles in the region.

India’s Policy Shift in the Indian Ocean

Strengthening Regional Ties:

• India is actively engaging with IOR nations through:
  • Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) – A key diplomatic platform initiated by India.
  • Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) – Multilateral cooperation on economic and maritime security.
  • Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) – Enhancing naval interoperability and intelligence sharing.
  • Colombo Security Conclave – Focuses on maritime security & counterterrorism with Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Mauritius.

SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region):

• Launched in 2015 under PM Modi, this initiative aims to:
• Strengthen India’s leadership in IOR.
• Ensure free and open sea lanes for secure global trade.
• Promote sustainable maritime development.

Enhancing Blue-Water Capabilities:

• Naval Expansion: India is modernizing its navy by inducting indigenous aircraft carriers and advanced submarines.
• Maritime Surveillance: Deployment of P-8I Poseidon aircraft, and satellite-based tracking systems.
• Quad Cooperation: India, U.S., Japan, and Australia collaborate on maritime security, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence sharing.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The Union Budget 2025-26 aims to foster rural prosperity and resilience by increasing women’s workforce participation and supporting their entrepreneurial growth.

• This comes at a crucial time when self-employment among rural women is rising, as reflected in the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24.

Rising Women’s Workforce Participation and Self-Employment Trends

• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Data
• The female workforce participation rate has increased to 40.3% in 2023-24 from 22% in 2017-18.
• The rise is primarily due to a 15.9% growth in self-employment, particularly in rural areas.
• Self-Employment: A Double-Edged Sword
• While self-employment provides income opportunities, it is precarious and informal, lacking social security and job benefits.
• Key challenges include:
  • Lack of skill training
  • Limited mobility due to societal norms
  • Barriers in accessing formal credit
  • Heavy domestic and caregiving responsibilities

Contribution of Self-Employment to Economic Growth

• International Labour Organization (ILO) Study (2019) Findings
• Small enterprises and self-employment contribute to two-thirds of total employment globally.
• In India, self-employment among women is mostly concentrated in agriculture, but there is a growing presence in manufacturing, services, and construction, necessitating targeted policy interventions.
• World Bank Study (2024) on Rural Women Entrepreneurs
• Women-owned enterprises in rural India provide employment to 22-27 million people.
• Access to formal credit remains a significant challenge, highlighting the need for tailored financial inclusion strategies.

Budget 2025-26: Key Initiatives for Women Entrepreneurs and Workforce Participation

• Financial Inclusion Measures
• ₹41 lakh crore sanctioned under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) in 2023-24 for women entrepreneurs.
• New scheme to support 5 lakh first-time entrepreneurs (women, SCs, and STs) with term loans up to ₹2 crore over five years.
• Increase in budgetary allocation for women’s welfare.
• Gender allocation in the total budget rose, showing greater commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
• Strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Rural Livelihoods
• National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) has integrated rural women into SHGs.
• SHGs play a crucial role in microfinance, skill development, and entrepreneurship promotion.
• Skill Development and Capacity Building
• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) to provide job-oriented training to rural women.
• Emphasis on sectoral employment, particularly in:
  • Manufacturing
  • Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
  • Services and construction industries

Sectoral Opportunities for Women’s Employment Growth

• Boost to Manufacturing and MSMEs
• MSMEs employ a significant number of women, and budgetary support for MSMEs is expected to:
  • Enhance women’s employment
  • Promote women-led start-ups
  • Provide easier access to credit and technology adoption
• The budget includes a special package covering financing, regulatory changes, and technology support for MSMEs.
• Support for Women in Labor-Intensive Sectors
• Focus on high-employment sectors like textiles, food processing, and rural industries.
• Policy measures to reduce informal employment and improve job security and social security coverage.

Addressing Barriers to Women’s Workforce Participation

• Overcoming Social and Economic Challenges
• Barriers include:
  • Unpaid care work and domestic responsibilities
  • Mobility constraints
  • Lack of digital and financial literacy
• Government Interventions:
  • Encouragement of working women hubs (MSMEs collaborating to provide hostels, crèches, and senior care facilities).
  • Promotion of gender-sensitive workplace policies in industries employing large numbers of women.
• Encouraging Financial Inclusion and Credit Access
• Formalizing credit access through women-led banks and financial cooperatives.
• Strengthening digital banking services for women entrepreneurs in rural areas.

Way Forward

• Expanding Social Security and Legislative Protections
• Extending social security benefits (pensions, maternity benefits, insurance) to self-employed women.
• Strengthening enforcement of equal pay and workplace safety laws.
• Strengthening Digital and Financial Literacy Programs
• Expanding digital literacy to ensure greater participation in online markets and e-commerce platforms.
• Bridging the gender gap in technology adoption through targeted training programs.
• Enhancing Rural Infrastructure for Women Workers
• Development of rural business hubs with access to:
  • Coworking spaces
  • Childcare and elderly care facilities
  • Transportation support for working women
• Long-Term Vision: Towards Sustainable Rural Employment
• Strengthening public-private partnerships (PPPs) for skill training and employment.
• Integrating women-led businesses into global supply chains.
• Encouraging eco-friendly entrepreneurship in agriculture, handicrafts, and textiles.

Conclusion

• The Union Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for rural women’s economic empowerment by increasing their participation in self-employment and entrepreneurship.
• With a multi-pronged approach involving financial inclusion, skill development, and social security, India can harness the full potential of its female workforce.

These interventions align with the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and contribute to sustainable, inclusive growth.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India, along with Singapore and Oman, is hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Muscat, where foreign ministers from 30 nations are discussing regional security and economic cooperation.

What is the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)?

• The third-largest ocean in the world, covering 70.56 million sq km and connecting Asia, Africa, and Australia.
• A natural trade corridor historically influenced by Indian civilization and maritime networks.

Nations Surrounding IOR:

• 26 coastal nations, including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, Indonesia, Australia, South Africa, and Somalia.
• Landlocked countries like Nepal and Bhutan also depend on IOR trade routes.

Importance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR):

• Global Trade Hub: Facilitates 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy imports, making it a key economic corridor.
• Maritime Security: Critical sea lanes like the Strait of Malacca, Hormuz, and Bab el Mandeb ensure uninterrupted global trade.
• Resource-Rich Waters: Contains vast fisheries, oil, gas, and mineral deposits, crucial for regional economies.
• Strategic Significance: Hosts naval bases of major powers (US, UK, China, France), influencing global security dynamics.

India’s Role in Managing the Indian Ocean Region:

• SAGAR Initiative (2015): Launched by PM Modi to promote Security and Growth for All in the Region, ensuring maritime stability.
• Naval Capabilities & Regional Security: Indian Navy conducts joint exercises (MILAN, Malabar, Varuna) to strengthen regional defense cooperation.
• Economic & Trade Leadership: India develops ports via Sagarmala and promotes the Blue Economy for sustainable ocean resource utilization.
• Disaster Relief & Humanitarian Assistance: Plays a leading role in HADR operations, assisting countries during natural disasters and emergencies.
• Diplomatic & Strategic Alliances: Strengthens regional partnerships through IORA, BIMSTEC, and QUAD for collective maritime governance.

Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region:

• China’s Expanding Influence: String of Pearls strategy and growing naval presence challenge regional stability and India’s interests.
• Piracy & Maritime Crimes: Somali piracy, illegal fishing, and arms smuggling disrupt trade and security operations.
• Climate Change & Rising Sea Levels: Small Island nations face existential threats due to coastal erosion and submergence risks.
• Undersea Surveillance & Cyber Threats: Chinese control over subsea cables poses risks to data security and regional communications.
• Maritime Terrorism & Trafficking: Drug smuggling, human trafficking, and sea-based terrorism remain persistent security threats.

Way Ahead:

• Strengthening Maritime Infrastructure: Invest in port modernization, naval expansion, and undersea surveillance systems.
• Enhancing Regional Cooperation: Deepen partnerships with IORA, QUAD, and bilateral maritime security agreements.
• Boosting Blue Economy & Sustainable Development: Promote fisheries, ocean industries, and clean energy solutions for long-term sustainability.
• Countering External Influence: Protect regional communication networks and prevent foreign dominance in key maritime sectors.
• Disaster Preparedness & Climate Action: Develop early warning systems, climate resilience plans, and disaster relief infrastructure.

Conclusion:

The Indian Ocean Region is a vital geopolitical and economic hub, influencing global trade, security, and regional stability. India’s proactive leadership through SAGAR and IORA is crucial in maintaining peace and prosperity. Strengthening maritime security, infrastructure, and regional alliances will ensure India’s prominence in the global maritime order.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: An analysis reveals that only three states—Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha—have made notable progress in recognizing Community Forest Resource (CFR) rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. The majority of forest-dwelling communities across India continue to face significant hurdles in securing these rights.

Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006: A Landmark Legislation

Background:

Before the enactment of the FRA, 2006, Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs) lacked legal recognition over their ancestral forest lands.

• Colonial forest laws and post-independence conservation policies often labeled them as encroachers.
• The FRA was introduced to correct these historical injustices and provide a framework for recognizing forest land and resource rights.

Key Provisions

• Recognition of Rights: Grants STs and OTFDs the right to hold, live, and use forest land for habitation and livelihood.
• Community Forest Resources (CFR): Recognizes community rights over customary common forest lands for management and conservation.
• Critical Wildlife Habitats: Identifies and protects ecologically sensitive areas while ensuring wildlife conservation.
• Sustainable Use & Conservation: Emphasizes responsible use of forest resources while preserving biodiversity.

Community Forest Resource (CFR) Rights: A Special Category

• Under Section 3(1)(i) of the FRA, 2006, CFR rights empower Gram Sabhas (village councils) to legally manage their traditional forests. These rights ensure community-led conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.

Key Features of CFR Rights:

• Ownership & Governance: Gram Sabhas are recognized as the governing body for community forests.
• Sustainable Use: Allows communities to harvest non-timber forest produce (NTFP) like honey, bamboo, and medicinal plants.
• Forest Conservation: Enables communities to protect forests from deforestation, mining, and external threats.
• Customary Rights: Recognizes traditional knowledge in forest conservation.
• Protection from Eviction: Communities cannot be displaced without their explicit consent.

Challenges Hindering CFR Implementation

Displacement Due to Conservation & Development Projects:

• A study titled ‘Democratising Forest Governance: Challenges Old and New’ found that over 1,00,000 forest dwellers have been displaced due to protected areas created by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• More than 3,00,000 hectares of forest land have been diverted for mining and infrastructure projects.

Slow & Limited Recognition of CFR Rights:

• Maharashtra (36%), Chhattisgarh (24%), and Odisha (10%) have made progress, but most states lag.
• States like Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Karnataka have recognized less than 2% of potential CFR areas.

Conflicting Legal Frameworks:

• Overlapping laws—Indian Forest Act, 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980—create ambiguities in FRA implementation.
• These conflicts often delay CFR recognition.

Weak Institutional & Financial Support:

• Many Gram Sabhas lack resources, technical expertise, and funds for effective forest management.
• Lack of government investment in community-led conservation efforts weakens CFR governance.

Lack of Awareness & Political Will:

• Forest dwellers often remain unaware of their rights under the FRA.
• Administrative delays & bureaucratic hurdles further slow down claim processing.

Successful CFR Implementations in India

Mendha-Lekha, Maharashtra (2009):

• First village in India to receive CFR rights over 1,800 hectares of forest.
• Gram Sabha-led bamboo harvesting & conservation improved local livelihoods.

Niyamgiri, Odisha (2013):

• The Dongria Kondh tribe exercised CFR rights to stop bauxite mining in the Niyamgiri hills.
• The Supreme Court upheld their rights, marking a historic victory for tribal self-governance.

CFR Rights & India’s Climate Goals

• FRA’s Role in Carbon Sequestration: India has committed to sequestering 2.5 gigatonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forest conservation.
• CFR rights contribute to global climate initiatives, such as Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+).

Way Forward: Strengthening CFR Implementation

• Expedite Claim Processing: States should streamline bureaucratic procedures to recognize CFR claims faster.
• Capacity Building for Gram Sabhas: Training & technical support should be provided for sustainable forest management.
• Strengthen Legal Protections: Ensure stronger safeguards against land encroachment & corporate exploitation.
• Increase Awareness & Community Participation: Awareness campaigns should educate forest dwellers about their rights under the FRA.
• Financial & Institutional Support: Governments must invest in community-led conservation programs.

Conclusion

• The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, particularly Community Forest Resource (CFR) Rights, is a crucial step toward decentralized forest governance in India. Recognizing the role of tribal and forest-dwelling communities can enhance environmental conservation, social justice, and economic security.
• However, bureaucratic inefficiencies, legal conflicts, and lack of awareness continue to hinder its implementation. Strengthening institutional support and ensuring timely recognition of CFR rights is essential for protecting both forest ecosystems and the rights of forest-dependent communities.