Blog

Chabahar Port Amidst US-Iran Tensions

International

In News

• India has reaffirmed that it remains engaged with both the U.S. and Iran to continue operations at the strategic Chabahar port, countering reports that it plans to exit due to renewed U.S. sanctions.

Chabahar Port

• Location: It is a seaport in Chabahar located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman.
• It consists of two separate ports named Shahid Kalantari and Shahid Beheshti.
• It is only about 170 kilometers west of the Pakistani port of Gwadar.
• Strategic location: India needs access to iron from Afghanistan’s Hajigak mine and other natural resources from the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, which is made possible by the Chabahar port.
• INSTC: The port is also part of International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal transport project to connect the Indian Ocean to Northern Europe.

Central Vigilance Commission

Polity and Governance

In News

• Praveen Vashista was appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission by the President of India.

Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

• It is India’s apex statutory body entrusted with ensuring integrity, transparency, and accountability in public administration.
• It was established in 1964 following the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption.
• The Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, provides for the appointment of a Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners. The tenure of the Vigilance Commissioner is of four years or till the incumbent attains the age of 65 years.
• The Central Vigilance Commissioner and the Vigilance Commissioners are appointed by the President of India on the recommendations of a High-Powered Committee (HPC) consisting of the Prime Minister, the Minister of Home Affairs and the Leader of the Opposition in the House of the People (Lok Sabha).

Power and Functions

• The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) mandated under the CVC Act, 2003 to combat corruption and ensure integrity, transparency, and accountability in public administration.
• The Commission exercises superintendence over vigilance administrations of Central Government ministries, departments, and organizations.
• The Central Vigilance Commission acts as the apex vigilance institution by supervising and guiding anti-corruption inquiries, including cases referred by the Lokpal and whistleblower complaints under the PIDPI framework.
• It supervises the functioning of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in cases related to offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
• It plays a key role in senior appointments by chairing committees that recommend appointments of senior officers in the Directorate of Enforcement and the CBI (SP level and above, excluding the CBI Director).

Root Wilt Disease

Economy

In News

• Coconut cultivation in peninsular India is facing a serious threat due to phytoplasma-induced Root Wilt Disease (RWD).

Root Wilt Disease (RWD)

• Root Wilt Disease of coconut is caused by phytoplasma, a cell wall–less bacterial pathogen, and is classified as a non-fatal but debilitating disease.
• It was first reported more than 150 years ago in Erattupetta, Kerala, and despite long-term research efforts, no definitive curative treatment has been developed so far.
• The disease is characterised by gradual yellowing and wilting of leaves, followed by a sharp decline in nut yield and eventual shedding of all nuts.
• Root Wilt Disease spreads through insect vectors, mainly sucking pests, and its transmission is further facilitated by wind movement and large, uninterrupted coconut plantations.

Additional Information – Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

• It is a major perennial horticultural plantation crop of India, predominantly grown in the humid tropics and coastal regions.
• It thrives in well-drained sandy loam soils, high humidity, and temperatures between 27–32°C. It requires plenty of sunlight.
• India is one of the leading producers of coconut globally. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka together contribute about 82–83% of India’s coconut production.

Elevated Wildlife Corridor in Kaziranga

Geography & Environment

Context

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a 34.5-km elevated wildlife corridor in Assam’s Kaziranga.

Elevated Wildlife Corridor in Kaziranga

• Objective- This aims to enable safe animal movement, especially during annual floods.
• Also, this would improve connectivity between Guwahati, Kaziranga National Park, and Numaligarh.

Kaziranga National Park

• It is the largest undivided representative area of Brahmaputra valley floodplain grassland, where various stages of biotic succession in the grassland ecosystem are explicit.
• The Park is the abode of more than 70% of One Horned Rhinoceros in the world.
• It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950, and notified as Kaziranga National Park in 1974 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972.
• It  was declared a World Heritage Site back in 1985. It is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International.

Synthetic Cattle Breeds

Economy

Context

• India registers two new synthetic cattle breeds Karan Fries and Vrindavani developed by the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI).

Karan Fries

• It is a synthetic cow breed developed through crossbreeding Holstein Friesian, a globally recognised high-yielding breed with India’s indigenous Tharparkar zebu cattle, known for their hardiness and resilience.
• The synthetic Karan Fries cow breed combines high productivity with resilience, delivering peak daily milk yields of up to 46.5 kg.
• Synthetic cattle breeds are those developed through planned cross-breeding of two or more breeds usually indigenous (Bos indicus) with exotic (Bos taurus) followed by stabilisation of desired traits over generations.
• Once stabilised, they breed true and are recognised as distinct breeds.

Significance:

• Higher productivity than indigenous cattle.
• Better climate resilience than pure exotic breeds.
• Improved economic returns for dairy farmers.
• Lower mortality and better reproductive efficiency.

18th Japan-India Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue

International

In News/Context

• At the 18th India–Japan Strategic Dialogue, India and Japan reaffirmed the upward trajectory of their Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Key Highlights

• Announced the launch of Japan–India Private-Sector Dialogue on Economic Security (B2B) in early 2026.
• It will help in identification of five priority areas: semiconductors, critical minerals, ICT, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals.
• Establishment of the Japan–India AI Strategic Dialogue under the Japan–India AI Cooperation Initiative (JAI).
• Japan will invite 500 highly skilled Indian AI professionals by 2030 for joint research.

Additional Information – India & Japan relations

Defence and Security

• Military Exercises: Malabar, Dharma Guardian, and JIMEX exercises enhance interoperability and Indo-Pacific security.
• Trade: Bilateral trade reached approximately $23 billion in 2023-24.
• FDI: Japan is India’s fifth-largest source of FDI
• Bullet Train: The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail exemplifies flagship India-Japan transport cooperation.
• Energy: Clean Energy Partnership (2022) expands hydrogen, renewables, and climate cooperation.
• Quad: Quad coordination ensures Indo-Pacific stability through collective maritime commitments.
• SCRI: Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) reduces dependency on China for the supply of critical goods.
• Forums: India and Japan cooperate in G20, International Solar Alliance (ISA), CDRI, and IPEF, strengthening multilateral governance.
• Space: ISRO–JAXA LUPEX mission exemplifies frontier collaboration in space exploration.

UN High Seas Treaty Comes Into Effect

Geography & Environment

Context

• A UN-backed treaty on biodiversity in international waters, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, has entered into force, creating the first legally binding global framework to conserve and sustainably use the high seas.

What are the High Seas

• High seas refer to ocean areas beyond national jurisdiction, i.e., beyond 200 nautical miles (Exclusive Economic Zones – EEZs).
• They cover nearly two-thirds of the global ocean and about half of the Earth’s surface.
• Earlier governed mainly by general principles under UNCLOS, with limited biodiversity-specific regulation.

Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty

• Adoption & Background: The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement was adopted in 2023 by an Intergovernmental Conference on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, convened under the auspices of the United Nations.
• Legal Status under UNCLOS: It is agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), after:
• Objective: To ensure the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ), commonly known as the high seas.
• Membership Status: 83 countries have ratified the treaty so far & India has signed but not yet ratified the BBNJ Agreement.

Seed Act 2026 and Its Impact on Farmers

Economy

Context

• Recently, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) briefed in detail about the features of the Seed Act 2026 and its impact on farmers.
• The Seed Act 2026 is expected to be introduced in the Upcoming Budget Session of Parliament.

Key Features of the Seed Act 2026

• Nationwide Seed Traceability: Every packet of commercial seed sold will carry a QR code that farmers can scan.
• Scanning reveals key information: who produced the seed, where it was sourced, and which dealer sold it.
• It aims to eliminate anonymous seed sales and quickly detect fake or substandard seeds, enabling faster remedies for aggrieved farmers.
• Mandatory Registration of Seed Companies and Dealers: The Act proposes compulsory registration of commercial seed producers, traders, and dealers.
• Strong Penalties for Substandard and Fake Seeds: The new Act proposes fines up to ₹30 lakh and possible imprisonment for deliberate violations.
• Protection of Traditional Seed Practices: Government officials have emphasised that traditional farmer practices like saving, sharing, and exchanging seeds within the community will not be restricted.
• The new act focuses on commercial seed quality, not on traditional, non-branded seed systems.
• Scientific Evaluation of Imported Seeds: Imported seeds will undergo rigorous scientific assessment before entering the Indian market, ensuring they meet ecological, agronomic, and quality criteria.
• It protects local farmers from inferior foreign seeds that may not be suited to Indian growing conditions.
• Institutional Mechanisms and Federal Cooperation: The Act may create oversight committees at the Central and State level to improve coordination in seed testing, registration, and enforcement across regions.
• Agriculture remains a State Subject (Schedule VII of Indian Constitution), meaning states will play a key role in implementing and enforcing the Act alongside the Centre.

Thiruvalluvar Day

Culture

In News

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Thiruvalluvar, acknowledging the enduring influence of his timeless works and ideals across generations.

About

• Thiruvalluvar Day was first celebrated on May 17 and 18 in 1935.
• In the present time, it is usually observed either on January 15 or 16 in Tamil Nadu and is a part of Pongal celebrations.

Thiruvalluvar

• Great Tamil poet – Thiruvalluvar, commonly known as Valluvar, was a celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher.
• Thirukkural – He is best known as the author of Thirukkural, a collection of couplets on ethics, politics, economy and love.

Jallikattu

Culture

Context

• Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin attended the jallikattu in Alanganallur.

Jallikattu

• It is also known as Eruthazhuvuthal.
• It is a bull-taming sport traditionally played in Tamil Nadu as part of the Pongal harvest
• The history of this bullfight dates back to 400-100 BCE when it was played by the Ayars, an ethnic group in India.
• The name is coined from two words, Jalli (silver and gold coins) and Kattu (tied).
• In this festival, a bull is let loose among a crowd of people, and whoever tames it will get the coins tied to its horn.
• The people who participate in the sport try to hold on to the animal’s hump to stop it. Sometimes, they run along with the bull.
• Pulikulam or Kangayam is the breed of bulls used for the sport. This festival has been part of cultural tourism in the state.
• Vadi manjuviraṭṭu, Vēli viraṭṭu, and Vaṭam manjuviraṭṭu are the variants of this sport

Key Concerns:

• Animal Cruelty & Suffering: Bulls are often provoked with alcohol, sticks, knives, and chili powder in their eyes; tail-bending and physical abuse during training and the event cause extreme stress, pain, and severe injuries.
• Human Injuries & Fatalities: The event poses significant risks, with numerous injuries and deaths reported for both participants and bulls over the years.
• Ethical Considerations: Animal rights groups argue that using bulls for entertainment is unethical, regardless of cultural significance, and that the practice exploits and traumatizes the animals.
• However, in 2023, A five-judge Bench of the Supreme Court upheld the amendments made by the legislatures of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, allowing bull-taming sports like jallikattu, kambala, and bullock-cart races.

A Decade of Startup India

Economy

Context

• PM Modi participated in a programme marking a decade of the Startup India initiative on National Startup Day.

Startup India

• Launched on – January 16, 2016.
• Objective – to promote entrepreneurship and enable investment-driven growth.

India’s Startup Ecosystem

• India has rapidly evolved into one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems, with more than 2 lakh startups as of 2025 .
• India has the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world.
• Major hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR have been at the forefront of this transformation.
• India has over 120 unicorns with a valuation exceeding $350 billion.
• Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 ranking: It provides performance metrics and ranks around 140 economies on their innovation ecosystems.
• India has made a steady climb from 48 rank in 2020 to 38 in 2025.

2025 Warmest La Nina Year on Record

Geography & Environment

In News

• According to a new report ,2025 was the third warmest year on record and the warmest La Niña yea

La Nina

• It is a Pacific Ocean weather pattern where warm water and clouds shift westward.
• This causes heavier rainfall in regions like Indonesia and Australia.
• Conversely, areas like the southwestern United States experience drier-than-usual conditions.

Impacts on India

• In India, El Niño usually causes less rainfall and higher temperatures, while La Niña brings more rainfall and cooler temperatures.

Womaniya Initiative

Government schemes

In News

• Government e-Marketplace (GeM) marked seven years of the Womaniya initiative

Womaniya initiative

• It was launched in 2019
• Objective – It aims to enhance access for women entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to government markets by providing a direct, transparent, and fully digital interface with buyers, removing intermediaries and entry barriers.
• Significance– It is aimed at strengthening the participation of women-led Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in public procurement.

Additional information – Government e-Marketplace

• Purpose – GeM is an Online Market platform that was set up in 2016 to facilitate procurement of goods and services by the government ministries, departments, public sector undertakings (PSU) etc.
• Known as – It has been envisaged as National Procurement Portal of India.
• Developed by – It has been developed by the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (Ministry of Commerce and Industry) with technical support of the National e-governance Division (Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology).
• Functions under – It functions under the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Significance – GeM is a completely paperless, cashless and system driven e-market place that enables procurement of common use goods and services with minimal human interface.

India’s First National Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Healers

Polity and Governance

Context

• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) is organizing India’s first National Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Healers on Strengthening Health Outreach in Tribal Areas.

India’s first National Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Healers

• Objective – The initiative will recognize and integrate tribal and indigenous healers as trusted community-level partners within India’s public health ecosystem.
• Healers possess deep-rooted ethnomedicinal knowledge, are accessible to the community, and often act as the first point of health contact.
• Implementation – An MoU will be signed between ICMR–Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) and MoTA to establish India’s first National Tribal Health Observatory – the Bharat Tribal Health Observatory (B-THO) under Project DRISTI.

28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC)

International

In News

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) at Samvidhan Sadan, highlighting how India has transformed its diversity into a democratic strength.

28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC)

• The conference, attended by 61 Speakers and Presiding Officers from 42 Commonwealth countries.
• It aims to promote knowledge and understanding of parliamentary democracy in its various forms and to develop parliamentary institutions.
• Note – Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is the Chairperson of this Conference.

Additional information –  Commonwealth of Nations

• It is a voluntary association of 56 independent member states.
• While most members are former territories of the British Empire, any nation can apply to join if it adheres to the association’s values.

Member States by Region

• The 56 member states are located across five regions: Africa (21), Asia (8), Caribbean and Americas (13), Europe (3), and the Pacific (11).
• These countries collectively represent approximately 7 billion people, which is about one-third of the world’s population.

Key Facts & Governance

• Head of the Commonwealth: King Charles III serves as the symbolic head of the association.
• Secretary-General: Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey is the current Secretary-General.
• Non-British History: Four members joined without a historical link to the UK: Mozambique, Rwanda, Gabon, and Togo.
• Largest & Smallest: India is the most populous member, while Nauru and Tuvalu are the smallest.
• Summit: The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is held every two years. The next meeting will be in late 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda.

India’s First State-funded BSL-4 lab for deadliest pathogens in Gujarat

Science and Technology

In News

• The Union Home Minister laid the foundation stone for a Bio-Safety Level 4 (BSL-4) Containment Facility and laboratory in Gandhinagar, describing it as a “health shield” for India.

BSL-4 Facility

• Bio-Safety Level 4 (BSL-4) labs represent the highest level of biological containment.
• It is designed to safely study the world’s most dangerous and highly infectious pathogens that often lack vaccines or treatments.
• Scientists conduct advanced research, develop diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics, and carry out rapid outbreak investigation and response under strictly controlled and internationally monitored conditions.
• Significance – The BSL-4 laboratory coming up in Gandhinagar, along with an Animal Bio-Safety Level (ABSL) facility, will be a strategic national asset where research is conducted on the deadliest pathogens known to mankind, including the Ebola virus, Marburg virus, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) virus, Kyasanur Forest Disease virus, and Nipah virus, among others.

Global Risk Report 2026 Released

Economy

In News

• The World Economic Forum (WEF) released the 21st edition of the Global Risks Report (2026), warning that geoeconomic confrontations pose the biggest risk to major powers.

Global Risks for 2026

• Geoeconomic Confrontation: Rated as the top risk for 2026. This includes the “weaponization” of trade, finance, and technology through sanctions and tariffs (such as the US tariffs imposed by the US, banning critical minerals by China etc).
• State-Based Armed Conflict: This is the second highest risk, fueled by ongoing wars like the conflict in Ukraine and recent volatility in regions like Venezuela and the Middle East.
• Extreme Weather: While environmental risks remain the top priority for the next decade, they have slipped to third place (8%) in the immediate two-year outlook due to the urgency of economic and military conflicts.
• Societal Risks: Polarization, misinformation, and AI-generated deepfakes are cited as major threats to social stability, especially during election cycles.

Biggest Risks to India

• Cybersecurity: This is ranked as the top risk for India and India is going more towards digital payments.
• Wealth Inequality and Social Safety Nets: Lack of robust social welfare schemes combined with rising income inequality poses a significant threat to internal stability.
• Economic External Shocks: India is susceptible to domestic slowdowns caused by global supply chain disruptions and international tariffs.
• Critical Infrastructure & Resource Security: The report highlights “water security” as a potential flashpoint, specifically noting that the Indus River Basin remains a point of contention between India and Pakistan, especially following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

Employment and Social Trends 2026 Report: ILO

Economy

Context

• Recently, the International Labour Organization (ILO) released its latest World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO) Report highlighting persistent inequalities in the global labor market.

Key Findings of Report

• Global Unemployment: The global unemployment rate is projected to remain at 9% in 2026, equivalent to 186 million people.
• However, progress toward decent work has stagnated, with millions still lacking access to quality, secure employment.
• Persistent Poverty Despite Economic Growth: Nearly 300 million workers live in extreme poverty, earning less than US$3 per day.
• Youth Employment Crisis Deepens: Youth unemployment rose to4% in 2025.
• Persistent Gender Gaps: Women make up only two-fifths (40%) of global employment.

International Labour Organisation (ILO)

• It is a specialised agency of the United Nations.
• It was established in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles as an affiliated agency of the League of Nations, and became the first affiliated specialised agency of the United Nations in 1946.
• Headquarter: Geneva, Switzerland.
• India is a founder member of the ILO.
• Aim: To promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.

Flagship Reports of ILO:

1. Global Wage Report;
2. World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO);
3. World Social Protection Report;
4. World of Work Report

Delhi to Earn Revenue from ‘Carbon Credits’

Geography & Environment

Context

• Delhi government has announced that it has approved a framework for carbon credit monetisation.
• Delhi government activities such as operating electric buses, plantation drives, promoting solar energy and waste management, will be used to generate carbon credits under the new policy.
• The reduction in emissions through these initiatives will be scientifically measured, registered as carbon credits, and sold in national and international carbon markets to generate revenue.

Carbon Markets

• Carbon markets are trading systems in which carbon credits are sold and bought.
• Companies or individuals can use carbon markets to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon credits from entities that remove or reduce greenhouse gas emissio

Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)

• The CCTS aims to incentivize and support entities in their efforts to decarbonize the Indian economy.
• CCTS laid the foundation for the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) by establishing the institutional framework.

Government Steps to Strengthen Carbon Market Readiness

• As highlighted during the COP 27, India balances its developmental needs with lower carbon emissions through Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC)
• Mission LiFE and the Green Credit Program to promote a sustainable lifestyle.
• Creation of the National Steering Committee for the Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM) and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power.

Kashi-Tamil Sangamam

Culture

Context

• PM Modi hailed the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam in strengthening cultural understanding, fostering academic and people-to-people exchanges and creating lasting bonds.

Kashi-Tamil Sangamam 4.0

• Organized by: Ministry of Education.
• Launched in: 2022.
• Universities: IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
• Aim: To rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.
• It is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating the Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge.
• Significance – It provides an opportunity for scholars, students, philosophers, and artists from the two regions to share their knowledge.
• It also aims to make the youth aware and experience cultural oneness.
• Note – Both Kashi and Chennai have been recognised by UNESCO as ‘Creative Cities of Music’.

Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024

Economy

Context

• NITI Aayog released the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024.

Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024

• Objective – It is a comprehensive assessment of export readiness across India’s states and union territories.
• Significance – It provides an evidence-based framework to evaluate the strength, resilience, and inclusiveness of sub-national export ecosystems.

Export preparedness index (epi) 2024

• Top Performers: In 2024, Maharashtra, along with Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, are leading performers among large states.
• Category of small states, northeastern states and union territories – Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Goa are listed as leading performers.

Jathiya Devi

Economy

In News

• Recently, Jathiya Devi has been identified for an ambitious urban development project to be executed by the Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA).

Jathiya Devi

• It is Located about 14 km from Shimla city
• It derives its name from the existence of an old Jathiya Devi shrine in the area.
• The project is envisioned as a planned satellite mountain township to ease pressure on Shimla.
• It creates new economic hubs, and promotes sustainable, disaster-resilient urban growth.
• Concerns: The Social Impact Assessment (SIA) acknowledges possible displacement and loss of assets such as temples, schools, shops, canals, and homes

Kuki-Zo Council and Demand for Union Territory

Polity and Governance

Context

• The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the apex civil body representing the Kuki-Zo people, has reiterated its demand for the creation of a Union Territory for Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur.

Background

• An ethnic conflict erupted in May 2023 between:
• The Meitei community, which predominantly inhabits the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo community, which largely resides in the surrounding hill areas.
• The conflict was triggered by the Meitei demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which was opposed by the Kuki-Zo groups due to concerns over land rights and political representation.
• The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) was formed in October 2024, following nearly 18 months of violence (2023–2025), during which the Kuki-Zo community alleged bias.

Kuki-Zo Groups

• The Kuki-Zo people are an ethnic community spread across Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Assam, and Myanmar.
• They share close ethnic and cultural ties with other Chin–Mizo groups of Myanmar and Mizoram.
• Since the 1980s–90s, several Kuki-Zo insurgent groups have emerged, primarily demanding:

1. Greater autonomy and self-determination,
2. Protection of tribal land and rights, and
3. In some cases, separate statehood.

Kurinji Rajkumar

Geography & Environment

In News

• Rajkumar, a former bank employee and environmentalist known as “Kurinji Rajkumar,” passed away in Thiruvananthapuram.

Neelakurinji

• It is a purplish flowering shrub, which blooms once in 12 years in the hills of the Western Ghats and Himalayan hills.
• It is said that Nilgiris gets its name due to the magical blue hue imparted by these stunning flowers.
• It is an endemic shrub species seen only in the natural high-altitude montane grasslands of southwest India, with an altitude ranging from 1,340 to 2,600 m.
• It is predominately found in the valley of Western Ghats and Nilgiri Hills of South India (Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu)
• It has most recently been assessed for The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species in 2024 and listed as Vulnerable emphasising the need for its conservation.”

Major Contributions  of “Kurinji Rajkumar,”

• He was the driving force behind the Save Kurinji Campaign, which played a key role in raising awareness about the conservation of the Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) and its fragile grassland ecosystem.
• His commitment began after witnessing the mass flowering in 1982, leading to treks and awareness efforts that evolved into a major environmental movement.
• He later focused on campaigns in the Munnar region, culminating in the establishment of the 32-sq km Neelakurinji Sanctuary in 2006, fulfilling his lifelong dream.

Centre Notifies National Sports Governance Rules, 2026

Polity and Governance

In News

• The Union Government has notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026, under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.

Objectives of the Rules

• To professionalise and standardise the functioning of National Sports Bodies (NSBs).
• To ensure meaningful participation of athletes in sports administration.

About the Rules

• Inclusion of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOMs): Minimum 4 SOMs must be included in the General Body of every National Sports Body.
• Gender representation mandate is 50% of the SOMs must be women sportspersons.
• SOM Eligibility Tiers: In the Tiered criteria, 10 Tiers have been prescribed, starting from sportspersons who have won a gold, silver or bronze medal in the Summer Olympic Games, Paralympic Games or Winter Olympic Games, to sportspersons who have won a gold, silver or bronze medal in the National Games or a National Championship.
• Disqualification Criteria: Convicted individuals facing imprisonment are barred from General Body membership, Executive Committee elections, or Athletes Committees.
• Governance Framework: The National Sports Board oversees recognition, affiliate registration, and inquiries into governance or fund misuse.
• Election Framework: The National Sports Election Panel shall maintain a minimum strength of 20 members at all times to oversee the conduct of elections for National Sports Bodies.

EU Countries Approved the Mercosur Agreement

International

In News

• The European Union has approved a long-delayed trade deal with the South American Mercosur bloc, despite strong opposition led by France and concerns from farmers across Europe.

Basics – Mercosur

• Mercosur is a South American trade bloc formed in 1991,
• Member countries – Brazil,Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with Bolivia as the newest full member,
• Mandate – It aims for free trade and economic integration.
• Note – Venezuela, once a member, has been suspended indefinitely.

EU–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement

• It is the EU’s largest ever in terms of tariff reductions, eliminating over €4 billion in duties on EU exports.
• Trade between the two blocs stands at €111 billion, with the EU exporting machinery, chemicals and transport equipment, and importing mainly agricultural products and minerals.
• Under the deal, Mercosur will remove duties on 91% of EU exports over 15 years, while the EU will eliminate duties on 92% of Mercosur exports within 10 years.
• Both sides retain quotas on sensitive agricultural goods, though the EU will increase beef import quotas and Mercosur will allow duty-free cheese imports.

DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests Third-Generation MPATGM

Security

Context

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully flight-tested the third-generation Fire & Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile, or MPATGM, with top attack capability against a moving target.

Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile

• The fire-and-forget missile was developed indigenously by DRDO.
• ‘Fire and forget’ type of missile – It refers to a weapon system that locks onto a target before launch and does not require further guidance from the operator after firing.
• It is equipped with state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, including an Imaging Infrared homing seeker, tandem warhead, all-electric control actuation system, fire control system, propulsion system and a high-performance sighting system.
• The missile is capable of day and night combat operations and can effectively defeat modern main battle tanks.
• It can be launched from a tripod as well as a military vehicle launcher.

38th India-France Strategic Dialogue

International

Context

• India and France reaffirmed their strategic partnership during the 38th India-France Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by National Security Adviser and Diplomatic Adviser to the French President.

India-France Relations

• India–France Strategic Partnership: It was launched on 26 January 1998 and is India’s first-ever Strategic Partnership.
• Rafale Fighter Jets: India procured 36 Rafales from Dassault Aviation.
• Scorpene Submarines (Project P-75): Collaboration with France’s Naval Group, 6 submarines built in India; latest is INS Vaghsheer.
• Recently both nations formally concluded an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to procure 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy.
• Joint Exercises: Shakti, Varuna, FRINJEX-23.
• Economic Cooperation: Within the European Union, France remains India’s fifth-largest trading partner, following the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Germany.
• The process of enabling Unified Payment Interface (UPI) has been successful in France.
• Joint missions: TRISHNA (satellite mission), MDA systems, ground station support.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): Co-founded by India and France in 2015 to promote solar energy worldwide.

Valley of Flowers

Geography & Environment

Context

• A fire has been raging near the Valley of Flowers forcing the Forest Department to seek the help of the Air Force.

Valley of Flowers

• Location- It is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand inside the Valley of Flowers National Park, which is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
• It is called the Valley of Flowers because the entire valley comes alive with thousands of blooming flowers during the monsoon.
• It was declared a National Park in 1982. In 2005, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unmatched beauty and unique alpine ecosystem.
• The valley was officially discovered by British mountaineer Frank Smythe in 1931 when he accidentally reached the location.

NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025

Government Schemes

In News

• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has issued guidelines for the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025, expanding the National Pension System (NPS) framework to enable early-life pension inclusion for minors.

NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025

• It is a pension savings scheme for minors under the National Pension System.
• It allows a parent or legal guardian to open and operate an NPS account on behalf of a child.

Key Features

• Eligibility: Indian citizens below 18 years of age.
• Account Type: Individual pension account in the name of the minor.
• Operation: Managed by parent/guardian until the child attains majority.
• Conversion: On turning 18, the account is converted into a regular NPS account.
• Minimum Contribution: Minimum initial and annual contribution of ₹250 and no maximum limit on contributions.
• Investment: Funds invested through Pension Fund Managers (PFMs) as per NPS guidelines.
• Source: PIB

Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters

International

In News

• Senior Indian diplomat DB Venkatesh Varma has been nominated by the UN Secretary General to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters for the 2026–27 term, marking the first time an Indian will hold the position.

Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters

• It was established in 1978.
• Composition – The Board comprises fifteen members, with the Director of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research serving as an ex officio member.
• Functions : It advises the Secretary-General on issues related to arms limitation and disarmament

NIRANTAR Platform

Economy

In News

• The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change chaired a meeting of the National Institute for Research & Application of Natural Resources to Transform, Adapt and Build Resilience (NIRANTAR).

NIRANTAR

• Established under – It is a platform of institutions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) aimed at improving coordination and collaboration.
• Objective – Its four verticals focus on research, assessment, and utilisation of resources, particularly bioresources, to ensure their sustainable use for development.
• Significance – The NIRANTAR platform can play a key role in ensuring bioresources sustainable use for development.

Quick Commerce Platforms to stop 10-minute Service

Economy

Context

• Indian quick commerce firms Swiggy and ‍Zepto have changed the branding of their quick commerce operations to stop promoting it as ‌a “10-minute” service following a government order.
• The move is aimed at ensuring greater safety, security and improved working conditions for gig workers.

Gig Workers

• According to Code on Social Security, 2020, a gig worker is a person who performs work or participates in work arrangements and earns from such activities, outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship.
• According to Niti Aayog, 7 million workers are engaged in the gig economy (2020–21), which is expected to expand to 2.35 crore by 2029–30.

Initiatives for Gig workers in India

• Code on social Security 2020: Envisages various benefits to gig workers e.g. life and disability cover, accident insurance etc.
• E-Shram Portal: Establishes a National Database of Unorganized Workers (NDUW) and aims to enhance employability and provide them with social security scheme benefits.
• Karnataka Platform Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2024: Establish a gig workers welfare board, call for a welfare fee etc

Pufferfish Poisoning

Geography & Environment

News

• Scientists have confirmed India’s first case of pufferfish poisoning, drawing attention to a largely unrecognised riverine health risk.

Pufferfish

• It belongs to the order Tetraodontiformes
• Locally known as – Toadfish, patkafish, balloonfish and fugu.
• Global catalogues list approximately 190–193 valid species.
• It is omnivorous and benthic in habitat and Freshwater pufferfish species reported from India are often endemic to specific geographical areas and serve as indicators of healthy river ecosystems.

Status in India

• Indian waters currently support eight genera and 32 species of pufferfish.
• Their distribution is specific to certain regions and river systems, primarily the Western Ghats and major basins such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra and Mahanadi.
• IUCN Red List status :  The dwarf pufferfish is classified as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List

Ministry of Rural Development Launches National Campaign on Entrepreneurship

Polity and Governance

In News

• A National Campaign on Entrepreneurship was launched to strengthen non-farm livelihoods for rural women under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• The campaign aims to train 50,000 Community Resource Persons (CRPs) on enterprise promotion and impart Entrepreneurship.

Government Steps To Foster Rural Entrepreneurship

• Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Implemented by KVIC, it provides subsidies up to 35% on project costs (higher in rural areas) for new micro-enterprises in manufacturing and services, targeting unemployed youth and artisans with loans up to Rs. 25 lakh.
• ASPIRE Scheme: Launched by MSME, it funds Livelihood Business Incubators (LBIs) in rural areas with up to Rs. 1 crore for infrastructure, skill programs, and innovation support to nurture agro-rural startups.
• Lakhpati Didi Initiative: “Lakhpati Didi” designates SHG women achieving ₹1 lakh+ annual household income (₹10,000+ monthly) over four seasons/cycles via farm/non-farm activities.

Additional Information – DAY-NRLM

• Launch: 2011 (restructured from Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY)).
• NRLM was renamed as DAY-NRLM in 2016.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
• Funding Pattern: Centrally Sponsored Scheme (60:40; 90:10 for NE & Himalayan states)
• Objective: Reduce poverty by enabling poor rural households to access sustainable livelihoods and enhanced incomes.

Core Strategy:

• Universal mobilisation of rural poor women into Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
• Capacity building, access to credit, and livelihood diversification

Key Focus Areas:

• Farm livelihoods
• Non-farm livelihoods and enterprises
• Financial inclusion and social empowerment