Blog

Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill 2026

Syllabus: GS2/ Polity and Governance

Context

• The union government introduced the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha.

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010

• FCRA aims to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions to prohibit activities detrimental to the national interest.
• First enacted in 1976, replaced in 2010, and further amended in 2016, 2018, and 2020.
• It is administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• FCRA registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.
• Around 16,000 NGOs are registered under FCRA, receiving nearly ₹22,000 crore annually.

Key Provisions of the 2026 Amendment Bill

• Designated Authority for Asset Management: The Bill proposes the creation of a Designated Authority as the core institutional mechanism for managing foreign-funded assets.
• The authority will take control of foreign contributions and assets when an organisation’s registration is cancelled, surrendered, expired, or not renewed.
• Government Power Over Assets: If registration is not restored, the government can transfer assets to a government department.
• It can also sell those assets, with proceeds going to the Consolidated Fund of India.
• Automatic Cessation of Registration: A new Section 14B is introduced, providing for “deemed cessation” of FCRA registration upon expiry or refusal of renewal.
• Registration automatically stops in three situations:
• Organisation fails to apply for renewal.
• Renewal application is rejected.
• Validity period expires without renewal.
• Time-Bound Utilisation of Funds: The amendment introduces mandatory timelines for the receipt and utilisation of foreign funds to improve financial discipline and transparency.
• Restrictions During Suspension: A suspended organisation cannot sell, transfer, or mortgage its foreign-funded assets.
• Prior government approval is mandatory for any such action.
• Centralised Investigation Control: Section 43 of the parent Act is amended, requiring any law enforcement agency or state government to obtain prior clearance from the Centre before beginning an inquiry into FCRA allegations. 
• Rationalisation of Penalties: The amendment reduces the severity of penalties for violations under the Act. The maximum punishment is reduced from five years of imprisonment to one year, or fine, or both.
• Individual Accountability: The definition of “Key Functionary” now includes directors, partners, trustees, karta of Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), office-bearers of societies/trusts/trade unions, and any person with control over management.
• They are personally liable unless they prove lack of knowledge or due diligence.
• Permanent Vesting of Assets: If an organisation shuts down, becomes inactive, or ceases to exist, its foreign-funded assets will permanently vest with the government through the Designated Authority.
• Why is Regulating Foreign Contributions Necessary?
• Protects national security and sovereignty from foreign interference.
• Prevents money laundering and diversion of funds to illegal activities.
• Ensures funds are used only for developmental and charitable purposes.
• Brings transparency and accountability to NGO functioning.
• Prevents foreign funding of electoral candidates, journalists, judges, government servants, and political organisations — all of which are prohibited under FCRA.
• Concerns over regulating foreign contributions
• Administrative Delays: The registration and renewal process is often time-consuming, affecting NGOs’ ability to access funds and carry out activities.
• Political Interference: The government’s discretionary powers to cancel registrations or freeze accounts of NGOs have been misused in some cases to target NGOs critical of the government, leading to accusations of political interference.
• Hinders social and economic development: Stringent Compliance Requirements of foreign contributions affects the social and economic development in India.
• Lack of Transparency Within NGOs: Some NGOs do not clearly disclose how and where foreign funds are spent. Tightening entry-level rules alone cannot fix this internal accountability problem. 

Way Ahead

• The government should ensure transparent and time-bound approval processes under FCRA.
• There is a need to balance regulatory oversight with autonomy of civil society organisations.
• Judicial and institutional safeguards should be ensured to prevent arbitrary use of powers.
• Source: TH

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF-General Administration) Bill

Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance

Context

• The Parliament started discussion on the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF-General Administration) Bill.

Major Highlights of the Bill

• Aim: To regulate recruitment, deputation, promotion, and other service conditions for the paramilitary officers.
• The bill will retain dominance of IPS officers on deputation in the five CAPFs:
• the Border Security Force (BSF), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in leadership positions.
• Reserving Posts: The bill proposes reserving 67% of additional director general posts and 50% of inspector general posts for IPS officers on deputation.
• The posts in the ranks of Special DG and DG shall be filled exclusively by deputation.
• The government argues that IPS officers are necessary in the interest of maintaining Centre-state relationship and ensuring close coordination between the Union and the states.
• The Bill, if passed, is likely to effectively undo a Supreme Court verdict directing the Centre to progressively reduce the deputation of IPS officers in the CAPFs.

Background

• In 2015, Group A officers of the CAPFs approached the court seeking Non Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU), cadre review, restructuring, and changes to recruitment rules to eliminate IPS deputation and enable internal promotions to Senior Administrative Grade (SAG).
• In the case of Sanjay Prakash & Others vs Union of India, 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that:
• Group A officers of CAPFs are to be treated as “Organised Services” for all purposes.
• The deputation of IPS officers to SAG posts i.e., up to the rank of Inspector General (IG), in CAPFs should be progressively reduced within an outer limit of two years.
• The court also asked for a time-bound review of cadre and framing of service rules in six months. 
• Purpose of the Ruling: The decision aimed to ensure fair career progression for CAPF cadre officers and to curb the longstanding dominance of deputed IPS officers within CAPFs.

Current Organisational Setup of CAPF

• The CAPFs include the Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Sashastra Seema Bal, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police. 
• The Ministry of Home Affairs is the cadre-controlling authority for both IPS and CAPF officers.
• The Centre had mentioned that the deputation of IPS officers was necessary to maintain the operational readiness of the forces and to ensure Centre-State coordination.
• Reserved Seats: At present, 20% of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) posts and 50% of Inspector General (IG) posts in CAPFs are reserved for IPS officers. 

Concerns of IPS Appointments in CAPFs

• Stagnation in Career Progression: Due to high reservation of senior ranks for IPS officers, CAPF cadre officers face limited promotional opportunities.
• On average, a CAPF officer takes 25 years to reach the rank of Commandant, a position they should ideally achieve in 13 years.
• Violation of Organisational Integrity: The continued deputation of IPS officers hampers institutional autonomy and the long-term professionalization of CAPFs as elite forces.
• Violation of Natural Justice and Equality: Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and Articles 16 (Equality of Opportunity in Public Employment) come into play, as CAPF cadre officers are denied equal promotional avenues compared to their IPS counterparts.

Conclusion

• The success of the bill will depend on balanced implementation i.e. ensuring operational efficiency while safeguarding the rights, morale, and well-being of personnel. 
• In this regard, continuous stakeholder consultation, transparency, and robust oversight mechanisms will be crucial. 
• Source: TH

Lok Sabha Passes Finance Bill 2026

Syllabus: GS2/ Polity and Governance

Context

• The Finance Bill, 2026 was passed by the Lok Sabha marking a significant step in concluding the Union Budget process for the 2026-27 financial year.

What is the Finance Bill?

• The Finance Bill is a Money Bill that gives effect to the taxation and financial proposals of the Union Government.
• It is introduced annually after the presentation of the Union Budget under Article 110 of the Constitution. It includes provisions related to;
• Provisions related to direct and indirect taxes.
• Amendments to existing tax laws.
• Changes in financial regulations and policy framework.
• Significance of the Bill
• Provides legal sanction to tax proposals, ensuring revenue mobilisation.
• Promotes ease of doing business through tax simplification.
• Encourages investment and consumption via targeted tax measures.
• Strengthens India’s path towards fiscal consolidation and growth.

How is it different from the Appropriation Bill?

• The Appropriation Bill is introduced under Article 114 of the Constitution of India to authorise the withdrawal of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India to meet government expenditure.
• It deals with appropriation of funds already voted by the Lok Sabha and charged expenditure, as provided under Article 114(3).
• The Bill does not allow any amendments, as it only seeks approval for expenditure already voted.
• It is introduced after the Demands for Grants are voted by the Lok Sabha under Article 113.
• Both the Finance Bill and Appropriation Bill are classified as Money Bills.
• Key Tax & Financial Highlights

Support for Key Sectors:

• Digital infrastructure and electronics manufacturing.
• Marine products, leather industry, and critical minerals.
• Nuclear energy and strategic sectors.
• TCS Reductions: Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on overseas tour packages and remittances for education and medical purposes (under LRS) has been reduced to 2%.
• Stock Market Taxes: Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on Futures increased to 0.05% (from 0.02%), while the rate for Options rose to 0.15%.
• Customs Exemptions: Basic customs duty has been exempted for 17 life-saving cancer drugs.
• Corporate Buybacks: All share buybacks are now taxed as capital gains; promoters face an additional buyback tax.
• Principles of Finance Bill 2026: 
• Trust-based tax administration, 
• Improving the ease of living for the common citizens, 
• Empowering MSMEs, farmers and cooperatives, 
• Strengthening India as a global business hub and 
• Enabling seamless trade facilitation and customs reforms.

Key Economic Terms

• Tax Collected at Source (TCS) is a tax collected by the seller from the buyer at the time of sale of specified goods or services, as per Section 206C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
• The seller collects a percentage of the transaction value as tax and deposits it with the government.
• Securities Transaction Tax (STT) is a direct tax levied on the purchase and sale of securities traded on recognised stock exchanges in India.
• It was introduced in 2004 through the Finance Act. The tax is collected by stock exchanges and deposited with the government.

Fiscal Estimates for FY 2026-27

• Total Expenditure: ₹53.47 lakh crore, marking a 7.7% increase over the previous fiscal year.
• The total capital expenditure proposed for the next fiscal is ₹12.2 lakh crore.
• It proposes a gross tax revenue collection of ₹44.04 lakh crore and a gross borrowing of ₹17.2 lakh crore.
• The fiscal deficit for FY27 is projected at 4.3% of GDP, lower than 4.4% in the current fiscal.
• Source: AIR

Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) Scheme

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context

• The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) Scheme beyond March 31, for a period of five years, till 2031.

About

• The IVFRT platform seeks to interlink and optimize functions related to immigration, visa issuance and registration of foreigners in India. 
• It was first approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs in 2010 with project duration till 2014.
• The scheme will modernize the immigration and visa ecosystem through adoption of emerging technologies for seamless and secure passenger movement. 
• IVFRT system has enabled a 100% contactless and faceless visa process leading to faster visa processing times with 91.24% of e-Visa applications having been cleared within 72 hours during the past five years.
• Average passenger clearance time at Immigration Posts has also been reduced to 2.5-3 minutes from the conventional 5-6 minutes.
• Source: TH

PRISM-SG Portal

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

In News

• The PRISM-SG Portal was recently launched to improve coordination in highway and railway infrastructure projects.

What is PRISM-SG?

• PRISM-SG stands for Portal for Rail-Road Inspection & Stages Management – Steel Girders.
• It is a digital platform that streamlines approval and inspection processes for bridge construction.
• Specifically covers construction of:
• Road Over Bridges (ROBs)
• Railway Bridges
• The portal brings all key players onto a single platform like road owning departments, Indian Railways, contractors etc.

The Judicial Push for Environmental CSR

Syllabus: GS3/Economy; Environment

Context

• By invoking Article 51A (g), the judiciary underscored that the right to conduct business is inseparably linked to the responsibility to restore the planet.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

• CSR is a business model that encourages companies to operate in ways that enhance society and the environment while still being accountable to their stakeholders and the public.
• CSR includes four categories: environmental impacts, ethical responsibility, philanthropic endeavors, and financial responsibilities.
• CSR in India: Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 provides that certain companies must mandatorily contribute a certain amount towards CSR activities.
• The Board of Directors of every company for which the CSR provisions apply must ensure that the company spends in every financial year at least 2% of its average net profits made during the immediately preceding three financial years. 
• It plays a critical role in balancing profit-making with social accountability.
• It ensures that businesses contribute positively to society while pursuing economic goals.

Article 51A(g)

• Article 51A(g) is a fundamental duty (Environment Protection).
• It was added by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act and falls under Part IVA of the Constitution.
• It mandates every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, rivers, lakes, and wildlife.
• Courts have linked Article 51A(g) with Article 21, expanding the right to a clean and healthy environment.

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• The Decade of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) was highlighted by the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.

About Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

• Established: The BIS was constituted under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.
• Regional Offices: Five offices located in Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Delhi.
• Core Functions: Standards Formulation (e.g., Indian Standards codes) and Product Certification (e.g., ISI mark for quality assurance).
• Source: AIR

Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar

Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Context

• The Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar is a prestigious National honour announced every year on 23rd January, the birth anniversary of Subhash Chandra Bose.

About

• Aim: To recognise and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of individuals and institutions in the field of disaster management. 

Award Categories

• Individual: Scroll and Medal.
• Institution: Scroll and Plaque.
• Both Indian citizens and institutions are eligible.
• Nominations are open throughout the year.
• Applications must be submitted online through the National Awards Portal.
• Self-nomination and third-party nomination are permitted.
• About Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
• He was a prominent Indian nationalist and leader who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. 
• Indian National Congress: He was elected as the President of the Indian National Congress twice, in 1938 and 1939. 
• Azad Hind Radio 1942: He established Azad Hind Radio in Germany to reach out to Indians and spread his vision of independence.
• He coined several patriotic slogans, including “Jai Hind,” “Dilli Chalo” (On to Delhi), and “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,”.
• Formation of Indian National Army (INA): In 1942, he formed the INA with the help of Japanese forces.
• The INA was an armed force aimed at securing India’s independence through military action against British rule.
• Azad Hind Government: In 1943, Subhash Chandra Bose renamed the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as “Shaheed” (Martyr) and “Swaraj” (Self-Rule) during his leadership of the Azad Hind Government.
• This was a symbolic gesture of asserting India’s sovereignty against British rule.
• On October 21, 1943, Netaji declared the establishment of the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind Sarkar).
• He was the first person to call Mahatma Gandhi “Father of the Nation”, in his address from Singapore.

Legacy: 

• He is widely respected for his contributions to the nationalist movement, and his legacy continues to inspire people across India and beyond.
• Source: PIB

National Dental Commission (NDC)

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context

• The Government of India has replaced the Dental Council of India (DCI) with a new regulator, the National Dental Commission (NDC).

About the National Dental Commission

• Established under the National Dental Commission Act, 2023.
• Aims to bring regulatory reforms in dental education and improve access to affordable oral healthcare.

Key Functions

• Frame regulations to implement the provisions of the Act;
• Conduct assessment and rating of dental institutions;
• Evaluate human resources and promote dental research;
• Frame guidelines for fee regulation in private dental colleges;
• Set standards for community dental care, education, research, and professional ethics.
• Institutional Structure: To support its functioning, three autonomous boards have been constituted:
• Undergraduate and Postgraduate Dental Education Board – to oversee dental education;
• Dental Assessment and Rating Board – to regulate accreditation and institutional assessment;
• Ethics and Dental Registration Board – to govern professional conduct and registration of dentists.
• Source: PIB

GlobE Network

Syllabus: GS2/ International Organizations

Context

• India recently hosted the 12th Steering Committee Meeting of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities in New Delhi.

About GlobE Network

• The Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (the GlobE Network) was established in 2021.
• Evolution: The initiative originated from the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meeting 2020, which endorsed the Riyadh Initiative.
• It is open to anti-corruption law enforcement authorities of all UN Member States and States parties to the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). 
• The Network is governed by its members and is supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) which provides the Network’s secretariat.
• India joined the Network in 2022, with the CBI and the ED as its two designated member agencies and was elected to the 15-member Steering Committee in 2024.
• Source: AIR

World Tuberculosis Day

Syllabus: GS2/Health

Context

• World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated on March 24 to educate people about tuberculosis.

About

• The day is observed to commemorate the anniversary of Dr. Robert Koch’s discovery of the TB bacteria in 1882.
• The theme for 2026 is “Yes! We can end TB”, which focuses on hope as well as action. 

What is Tuberculosis?

• Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs and is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis.  
• It spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze or spit.
• Symptoms: prolonged cough (sometimes with blood), chest pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats.
• While TB usually affects the lungs, it also affects the kidneys, brain, spine and skin.
• Treatment: It is preventable and curable with antibiotics.
• TB Vaccine: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine remains the only licensed vaccine against TB; it provides moderate protection against severe forms of TB (TB meningitis) in infants and young children.
• India’s TB burden and progress
• TB as a global health challenge: India has the highest TB burden in the world, contributing to 26% of the global burden and 29% of global TB-related deaths.
• India is followed by Indonesia (10%), China (6.8%), the Philippines (6.8%), and Pakistan (6.3%).
• Multidrug-Resistant TB: India represents 27% of the world’s multi-drug-resistant TB cases, underscoring the need for specialized treatment approaches.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised India’s progress, with a 17.7% decline in TB incidence from 2015 to 2023, a rate more than double the global decline of 8.3%.
• India aims to eliminate TB through programmes like the National TB Elimination Programme.
• Source: AIR

National Biodiversity Authority Constitutes Expert Committee on Invasive Alien Species

Syllabus: GS3/Environment

Context

• The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has constituted an Expert Committee on Invasive Alien Species to address the growing ecological and socio-economic risks posed by such species across the country.

About

• The decision follows a suo motu proceeding by the National Green Tribunal, which underscored the serious threats of invasive alien species to native biodiversity.
• The Committee has been mandated to prepare a consolidated national list of invasive alien species based on State-wise inputs.
• The Committee will identify and prioritise high-risk species and recommend science-based management strategies, ecological restoration measures, and national-level guidelines for their prevention, control, and eradication.  
• The Committee will function for a period of two years and will contribute in safeguarding the country’s biodiversity.

National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)

• The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) was established in 2003.
• It is a statutory body that performs a facilitative, regulatory and advisory function for the Government on the issue of Conservation, sustainable use of biological resources and fair equitable sharing of benefits of use.

Modifies of Credit Guarantee Scheme to Support MSME Manufacturers and Exporters

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

Context

• The Government has modified the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in line with the Budget 2025-26.

Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs

• Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS- MSME) was launched in 2025. 
• The scheme provides 60% guarantee coverage by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for credit facility up to ₹ 100 crore sanctioned to eligible MSMEs under MCGS-MSME for purchase of equipment/ machinery.
• Modifications in the existing “MCGS–MSME” scheme
• Upfront Contribution: 5% Upfront contribution made refundable, 1% each from 4th year onwards, subject to satisfactory performance of loan account.
• Eligibility: Service Sector MSMEs also included in the Scheme.
• Minimum project cost towards Machinery / Equipment: Cost of equipment/ machinery reduced up to 60% of project cost from earlier 75%.
• Guarantee Tenure: The credit guarantee would expire after 10 years, as compared to the unspecified period in the earlier scheme.
• Incorporation of Special Provisions for Exporters
• Eligible exporters: Profitable units having exported at least 25% of their sales turnover in each of previous 3 financial years and satisfying certain export realisation conditions.
• Guaranteed Loan Amount: ₹20 crore.
• Guaranteed Loan Amount: ₹20 crore.
• Upfront Contribution:  2% of loan amount (Max ₹40 Lacs); 1% each refundable in 4th and 5th year of the guarantee period.
• Guarantee Coverage: 75% of the amount in default.
• Source: PIB

Minor Planet Centre (MPC)

Syllabus: GS3/Space

In News

• The Minor Planet Center (MPC) has recently announced the discovery of 15 new moons (natural satellites)—four around Jupiter and eleven around Saturn.

About Minor Planet Centre (MPC)

• The MPC is the global repository (central database) for observations of small bodies in the solar system (asteroids, comets, and minor planets).
• It operates under the International Astronomical Union (IAU) at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
• It plays a key role in tracking, cataloguing, and identifying celestial objects beyond major planets.
• Functions of MPC
• Data Management: Receives and verifies astronomical observations to calculate orbital paths and assign official scientific identities to new space objects.
• Tracking NEOs: Monitors Near-Earth Objects (asteroids/comets) and collaborates with NASA to assess potential collision threats to Earth.
• Global Coordination: Publishes scientific updates to inform researchers of new discoveries, enabling worldwide collaboration among observatories for further study.
• Source: TH

Diego Garcia

Syllabus: GS1/Places In News

In News

• Reports have indicated that Iran attempted a missile strike on the Diego Garcia base. 
• Diego Garcia

About Diego Garcia

• Located in the Chagos Archipelago (British Indian Ocean Territory), Diego Garcia is a strategic island base in the Indian Ocean. It is a joint US–UK military facility.
• It serves as a key logistics and bomber base (launch point for long-range military operations) in West Asia.
• Its distance from Iran is about 3,800–4,100 km. It was previously considered beyond Iran’s strike capability.

Removal of the Chief Election Commissioner

Polity

Context

• Opposition parties are considering an impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.

Article 324 of Constitution

• Article 324 of the Constitution states that the Election Commission will comprise the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number of Election Commissioners (ECs), as the President may decide.
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for managing the preparation of electoral rolls and conducting elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
• The Constitution specifies that the President will appoint the CEC and ECs, subject to the provisions of an Act of Parliament.

Constitutional Provisions for Removal of the CEC

• Article 324(5) of the Constitution of India provides that the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) can be removed in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court.
• A motion seeking the removal of the CEC may be introduced in either House of Parliament and must specify the grounds for seeking removal.

The motion must be supported by:

1. At least 100 members of the Lok Sabha, or
2. At least 50 members of the Rajya Sabha.
3. Once the motion is admitted, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha constitutes an inquiry committee to investigate the allegations.
4. If the committee finds the charges proven, the motion is taken up for voting in Parliament.
5. Both Houses must then pass the motion with a two‑thirds majority of those present and voting. After both Houses approve the motion, the President issues the final order for removal.

Autonomous District Councils in Meghalaya

Polity and Governance

Context

• The election to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) in Meghalaya has been postponed due to ongoing violence and disturbances in the West Garo Hills district.

About

• The Sixth Schedule (Articles 244(2) and 275(1)) of Constitution provides autonomous administrative arrangements for tribal areas in certain northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram.
• Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in Meghalaya are special local self-governing institutions created under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India to protect the political, cultural, and economic rights of tribal communities.
• These councils enjoy legislative, executive, judicial, and financial powers.

Objectives

1. Protect tribal land and customs.
2. Provide self-governance to indigenous communities.
3. Prevent exploitation by external groups.

CITES

Environment

Context

• Recently, the Supreme Court of India has dismissed a petition alleging violation of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)

• Objective – It is a legally binding agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
• It does not ban trade completely, but regulates it through a system of permits and classifications.
• Signed: 1973 (Washington Convention)
• Entered into force: 1975
• Administered by: UNEP (Secretariat in Geneva)
• Parties: 180+ countries; India is a member
• Nature: Binding on countries, but implementation via national laws;
• Institutional Structure: Conference of Parties (CoP): Highest decision-making body (meets every 2–3 years)
• Secretariat: Geneva

Three Appendices

• Appendix I: Species threatened with extinction; Trade allowed only in exceptional cases;
• Example: Tiger, Elephant (certain populations), Rhino
• Appendix II: Species not immediately threatened, but may become so; controlled trade allowed.
• Example: Many timber species, marine species (e.g., sharks)
• Appendix III: Species protected in at least one country; other countries help regulate trade.

India & CITES

• India is a signatory since 1976; Implemented via Wildlife Protection Act, 1972;
• Key Authorities: MoEFCC (Management Authority); Wildlife Institute of India (Scientific Authority).

Nilgiri Tahrs

Environment

Context

• The Chokramudi hills near Munnar in Idukki (Kerala) have now transformed into a thriving natural habitat for the Nilgiri tahr.

Nilgiri Tahr

• Description: A stocky mountain goat (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) with short, yellowish-brown fur, and the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
• Habitat and Distribution: Endemic to a 400 km stretch of the Western Ghats, primarily across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• Diet: A herbivore feeding on over 120 species of grasses, herbs, and shrubs.
• Threats: Key threats include habitat loss (deforestation, plantations, hydroelectric projects), competition with domestic livestock, and hunting.
• Conservation Status: Listed as Endangered (IUCN Red List) and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
• Note – The Nilgiri tahr is the state animal of Tamil Nadu, and Eravikulam National Park hosts the largest surviving population and highest density of the species.

Inquiry and Prosecution Wing of Lokpal

Polity

In News

• A Parliamentary Standing Committee has sought details on the operationalisation of inquiry and prosecution wings provision in the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act 2013, highlighting delays even after a decade of enactment.

Lokpal

• Status & Mandate: Statutory anti-corruption body (Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013). It became functional in 2019. Mandated to inquire into corruption allegations against public functionaries.
• Structure: Consists of a Chairperson (former CJI, former SC Judge, or eminent person) and eight Members (four Judicial). At least 50% of Members must be from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/women.
• Appointment & Term: Appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a selection committee chaired by the Prime Ministe The term is 5 years or until 70 years of age.
• Jurisdiction: Covers current or former PM, Union Ministers, MPs, and Union Government officials (Groups A, B, C, D). Also includes heads and members of bodies funded by Union/State or receiving foreign contributions over ₹10 lakh.
• Powers: It has powers to superintendence over and to give direction to the CBI. Can refer complaints against Central government servants to the CVC.
• PM Exemptions: Cannot inquire into allegations against the PM regarding international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, or space. Initiation of a PM inquiry requires consideration by the full Lokpal bench and approval by at least 2/3rds of the members.

National Shipping Board (NSB)

Governance

News

• The government held a high-level interaction with the National Shipping Board (NSB) to address emerging challenges in India’s shipping sector amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics.

National Shipping Board (NSB)

• It is India’s apex advisory body on shipping and maritime matters, constituted under Section 23 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
• It works under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
• Objective – Its primary role is to advise the central government on shipping policies and maritime development.
• Its chairperson is appointed by the Central Government.

Black Rain in Tehran

Environment

Context

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of “black rain” and toxic air pollution in Tehran, following attacks on oil facilities.

Black Rain

• It refers to rainfall contaminated with soot, ash, oil particles, and chemical pollutants that are released into the atmosphere after large fires or explosions.
• Instead of clear water droplets, the rain carries dark, oily particles, giving it a black or grey appearance.
• Such rain usually occurs when massive fires release pollutants into the air and rainfall absorbs these particles before reaching the ground.
• Historically, similar phenomena were observed after the Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, when radioactive soot and debris mixed with rainwater.

Proton Accelerator Facility to Come up in Visakhapatnam

Science and Technology

News

• Andhra Pradesh will host a high-energy proton accelerator in Visakhapatnam as part of India’s long-term nuclear research programme.
• A proton is a subatomic particle with a positive electrical charge. It is found in every atomic nucleus of every element.

About the Project

• The high-energy proton accelerator in Visakhapatnam will generate high-energy neutrons for converting thorium into uranium fuel.
• The facility benefits from Visakhapatnam’s technological ecosystem and sea access for cooling.

Significance – The proton accelerator is being developed as part of India’s long-term nuclear programme.

Savitribai Phule

History / Personality in News

Context

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Savitribai Phule on her death anniversary.

Savitribai Phule (1831 – 1897)

• Born in – Naigaon village of Maharashtra’s Satara district.
• In 1840, at the age of nine, she married Jyotirao Phule, who was just 13 at the time.
• Formally recognised as India’s first female teacher.
• In 1848, the couple established the country’s first school for girls in Bhidewada, Pune.
• In 1863, Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai began Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha, India’s first home dedicated to prohibiting infanticide.
• She also advocated inter-caste marriages, widow remarriage, and eradication of child marriage, sati, and dowry systems, among other social issues.
• In 1873, the Phule’s set up the Satyashodhak Samaj (‘Truth-seekers’ society’), a platform open to all, irrespective of their caste, religion or class hierarchies, with the sole aim of bringing social equity.
• Literary works: Kavya Phule (Poetry’s Blossoms) in 1854 and Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (The Ocean of Pure Gems), in 1892.

Kurumba Painting

History/Culture

In News

• The Kurumba art tradition is facing the threat of extinction due to declining practitioners.

Kurumba paintings

• It traces back over 3,000 years, linked to rock art sites like Ezhuthupaarai in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris; they were practiced by the Kurumba tribe.
• The Kurumba tribe is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
• Originally they were painted over the house walls, temple walls or during festivals and artists derive natural pigments from forest sources like tree resins.
• These folk paintings illustrate rituals, festivals, honey hunting, nature, animals, and daily community activities using simple linear motifs, dots, lines, and geometric patterns.

Fiscal Health Index 2026

Polity and Governance

Context

• NITI Aayog has released the second annual edition of Fiscal Health Index (FHI 2026.

Fiscal Health Index

• Mandate – It assesses the fiscal health of states in India.
• Parameters – Quality of Expenditure, Revenue Mobilisation, Fiscal Prudence, Debt Index, and Debt Sustainability.
• Data for the index is sourced from the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).

Key Highlights of FHI 2026

Overall State Rankings:

• Odisha remains the top-performing state, further improving its fiscal score.
• Goa and Jharkhand also feature among the Achiever states.
• Gujarat and Maharashtra continue to remain in the top five.
• Haryana shows a notable improvement by gaining three ranks.

States Showing Recovery:

• Bihar, Karnataka, and Telangana demonstrate moderate improvement in fiscal performance.

Low-Performing States:

• Punjab, West Bengal, and Kerala continue to remain at the bottom of the rankings, reflecting persistent fiscal stress.

NE and Himalayan States:

• Evaluated separately for the first time, Arunachal Pradesh tops as Achiever (strong revenue growth), followed by Uttarakhand;