In today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and economic landscape of India. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.
Time for India Census
GS-2 -Polity & Governance- Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings-Delimitation Commission— 2021 Census
Why in the news?
- The 2021 Census has been delayed for so long because the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is delaying the Census because it wants to fast-track the “delimitation” exercise in anticipation of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
The 84th Amendment of the Constitution:
- The 84th Amendment of the Constitution mandates that the next delimitation exercise must be based on the first census conducted after 2026.
- Delimitation will be postponed until after the subsequent census in the 2030s if the next census occurs before 2026.
- Delimitation aims to adjust the allocation of Lok Sabha seats among states to align with their population shares and ensure equitable representation across constituencies.
- The upcoming delimitation is anticipated to benefit northern states that have experienced rapid population growth since 1973, possibly resulting in a redistribution of seats that could disadvantage southern states.
About the 106th Amendment:
- Background: The 106th Amendment was passed in 2019 and received presidential assent in January 2020.
- Increase in Reservation: The amendment extends the reservation of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures for another 10 years, up to January 25, 2030. This provision was set to expire in January 2020 before the amendment was passed.
- Constitutional Provisions: Article 330 deals with reservation of seats for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha, while Article 332 deals with similar reservation in state legislative assemblies.
- Women’s Reservation: Passed in September 2023, this amendment mandates one-third reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
- Implementation Clause: The reservation will be implemented after delimitation is conducted based on the first census figures post-2023.
- Separate Delimitation: The amendment suggests a separate delimitation process may be initiated specifically for implementing women’s reservation.
- Interpretation: This provision allows for the possibility of initiating women’s reservation based on an early census, independent of the broader delimitation exercise mandated by the 84th Amendment.
Overall Implications:
- Impact on Southern States:
- Seat Redistribution: Delimitation may transfer more Lok Sabha seats to northern states, potentially reducing southern states’ representation.
- Political Tensions: This shift could provoke regional tensions and increase opposition to the BJP in southern states.
- Women’s Reservation:
- Implementation Delay: Delaying the census could postpone the implementation of the 106th amendment, which reserves one-third of seats for women.
- Separate Delimitation: Women’s reservation may be initiated through a separate delimitation process, distinct from the broader exercise mandated by the 84th Amendment.
- Welfare and Entitlements:
- Updated Data Requirement: Census data are essential for implementing welfare schemes and ensuring equitable resource allocation.
- Impact on Beneficiaries: A delayed census could deprive millions of updated entitlements like food rations under the National Food Security Act, affecting their access to essential services.
Way forward:
- Timely Census Completion:
- Conduct the 2021 Census promptly to obtain accurate population data.
- Ensure timely completion to support effective implementation of welfare schemes and equitable resource allocation.
- Facilitate access to essential services for millions of citizens reliant on updated population figures.
- Separate Delimitation for Women’s Reservation:
- Implement women’s reservation through a distinct delimitation exercise, as permitted by the 106th Amendment.
- Allow women’s reservation to take effect independently of the broader delimitation mandated by the 84th Amendment.
- Expedite the process to realise gender parity in legislative bodies without delay.
| UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Years Question (PYQ) Q:1 Consider the following statements: (2009) 1. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times. 2. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India has doubled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (d) MainsQ:1 Empowering women is the key to controlling population growth.” Discuss. (2019) |
Source:TH
Monsoon in India
Tags: GS-1 , Indian Geography- Geophysical Phenomena – Monsoon
Why in the news ?
- The southwest monsoon arrived early in Kerala and has progressed up to Maharashtra, while North and Northwest India continue to face ‘heatwave’ to ‘severe heatwave’ conditions.
About the monsoon:
- The term ‘monsoon’ originates from the Arabic word ‘mausim’, meaning season, referring to the seasonal reversal of wind direction.
- The onset and retreat of the monsoon significantly impact India’s climate, agriculture, and economy.
Monsoon Onset(Arrival):
- Traditionally, the monsoon arrives over the Andaman Sea by the third week of May and progresses into the mainland, typically reaching Kerala around June 1.
- During the summer months (June to September), winds blow from the South-West, delivering more than 70% of India’s annual rainfall.
- The northward shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) triggers the onset of monsoon rains.
- The monsoon trough fosters the formation of a thermal low over north and northwest India.
- The IMD declares the monsoon’s onset based on defined criteria, including rainfall patterns, wind conditions, and Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) levels.
Monsoon Progress:
- Following its onset over Kerala, the monsoon moves northward and typically covers the entire country within approximately six weeks.
- Its progression accelerates until central India before slowing down.
- By the end of June, it usually reaches north Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and neighbouring areas, achieving national coverage by July 15th. This timing is critical for kharif crop sowing.
Monsoon Retreat (Withdrawal):
- The monsoon’s retreat signifies the shift from the rainy season to dry winter conditions. Starting in early September, it begins withdrawing from northwestern India, completing its retreat by early October.
- Unlike its onset, the withdrawal is gradual, with the monsoon lingering over southern and northeastern regions well into October.
Monsoon Variability:
- Onset, Advancement, and Withdrawal: The timing and duration of the monsoon influence rainfall patterns in different regions.
- Position of Monsoon Trough: The monsoon trough’s location can shift up to 5° north or south within 24 hours. Its southern position enhances monsoon activity over India, while a northern or absent trough can lead to breaks in monsoon conditions.
- Synoptic Systems: Cyclonic circulations, lows, and depressions moving along the troughs contribute to rainfall distribution.
Periodicity of Monsoon:
- The year-to-year variation in monsoon rainfall over many years is known as interannual variability.
- Global ocean-atmospheric phenomena like El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) primarily influence the monsoon’s periodicity.
- Additional factors include the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillations (PDO
H5N1 threat for humans
Tags: GS-3 , Science & Tech. – Awareness in various Science fields
Why in the news?
- Recently, the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 to cattle and the first human cases among U.S. dairy workers have intensified concerns about broader human transmission.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 strain spread from cattle to humans:
- Recent Infections: Three cases of human infection in dairy farm workers were reported in the U.S., indicating the potential for the virus to spread from cattle to humans.
- Transmission: The virus seems to spread to humans who have close interactions with infected birds or animals without adequate personal protection.
- Current Risk Level: Scientists note that the virus currently lacks the mutations necessary for efficient human-to-human transmission, maintaining a low risk to human health. However, the potential for the virus to rapidly evolve remains a significant concern.
Strategy to Identify and Contain the Spread of the Virus:
- Surveillance in Kerala:
- Community-Based Disease Surveillance Network: Kerala has implemented a network involving 2.5 lakh volunteers trained in the ‘One Health’ concept across four districts: Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki.
- Early Warning System: Volunteers report any unusual events or deaths of animals/birds in their locality, enabling early warning and prompt preventive or control measures.
- Global Coordination:
- Call for Robust Response: A recent editorial by The Lancet emphasises the need for a robust and coordinated global response to H5N1.
- ‘One Health’ Concept:
- Interconnection: ‘One Health’ recognizes the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment.
- Collaborative Efforts: It emphasises the need for collaborative efforts across different sectors to achieve optimal health outcomes.
- Implementation in Kerala:
- Operationalizing ‘One Health’: Kerala uses the ‘One Health’ concept through the World Bank-aided ‘Rebuild Kerala’ project. This involves a community-based disease surveillance network where volunteers monitor and report on animal and bird health, ensuring early detection and response to potential outbreaks.
- Proactive Measures: The state has established an on-ground, volunteer-driven network for disease monitoring and control, taking proactive steps beyond the conceptual framework.
Way Forward:
- Strengthen Global Surveillance and Collaboration:
- International Cooperation: Enhance cooperation for surveillance, data sharing, and rapid response mechanisms.
- ‘One Health’ Approach: Leverage the ‘One Health’ approach for coordinated action across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
- Implement Rigorous Biosecurity and Safety Protocols:
- Biosecurity Measures: Ensure strict biosecurity measures for workers in close contact with animals, particularly in high-risk areas.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and enforce the use of PPE to prevent zoonotic transmission and reduce the potential for human infections.
| UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ Mains PYQ: Q:1 The public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (2015) |
Source: TH
Pro-Tem Speaker of Lok Sabha
Tags: GS-2, — Polity – Parliament – Pro-Tem Speaker of Lok Sabha
Why in the News?
- The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha is set to convene soon. Until the election of the new Speaker, a pro-tem Speaker will be appointed to administer the oath to the newly elected Members of Parliament.
Who is a Pro-tem Speaker?
- Role of the Lok Sabha Speaker: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha manages the daily proceedings of the House.
- Outgoing Speaker’s Tenure: According to Article 94 of the Indian Constitution, the outgoing Speaker remains in office until the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha.
- Temporary Appointment: A pro-tem Speaker is appointed temporarily to handle specific duties until the new Speaker is elected.
- Constitutional Mention: The Constitution does not explicitly mention the post of pro-tem Speaker.
- Guidelines: The ‘Handbook on the Working of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs’ provides guidelines on the appointment and duties of the Speaker pro-tem.
- Administering Oaths: The primary duty of the pro-tem Speaker is to administer oaths to new MPs, as required by Article 99 of the Constitution.
Appointment of the Pro-tem Speaker:
- Presidential Appointment: When the Speaker’s post is vacant before the new Lok Sabha convenes, the President appoints a Member of the House as the Speaker pro-tem.
- Oath Administration: The President administers the oath to the Speaker pro-tem at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
- Assistants in Oath-taking: Generally, three other elected members of the Lok Sabha are also appointed by the President to assist in the oath-taking process.
- Selection Criteria: The senior most members, in terms of years of service, are usually chosen for this role, though exceptions can occur.
Process of Administering Oaths:
- Preparation of Senior Members List: The Legislative I Section of the Government of India prepares a list of the seniormost Lok Sabha members after the formation of the new government.
- Identification of Speaker Pro-tem: This list is submitted to the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs or the Prime Minister, who identifies the Speaker pro-tem and the three other members for oath-taking.
- Approval and Consent: After the Prime Minister’s approval, the consent of the selected members is obtained by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, usually over the telephone.
- Submission to the President: The Minister then submits a note to the President seeking approval for the appointments and the date and time for the swearing-in ceremony.
- Notification of Appointments: Upon the President’s approval, the Ministry informs the Speaker pro-tem and the other members about their appointments.
- Oath Administration: The Speaker pro-tem then administers the oath to the other three members in the Lok Sabha.
| UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) Prelims Q:1 With reference to Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: (2022) 1. As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, the election of Deputy Speaker shall be held on such date as the Speaker may fix. 2. There is a mandatory provision that the election of a candidate as Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha shall be from either the principal opposition party or the ruling party. 3. The Deputy Speaker has the same power as of the Speaker when presiding over the sitting of the House and no appeal lies against his rulings. 4. The well-established parliamentary practice regarding the appointment of Deputy Speaker is that the motion is moved by the Speaker and duly seconded by the Prime Minister. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 2 and 4 only Ans: (b) Q:2 With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration 1. He/She shall not preside. 2. He/She shall not have the right to speak. 3. He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A Mains: Q:1 To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? (2021) Q:2 How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer. (2020) |
Souce: IE
Kerala Migration Survey (KMS) 2023 report
Why in the news?
- Recently , the Kerala Migration Survey (KMS) 2023 report was unveiled at the Lok Kerala Sabha.
- Lok Kerala Sabha is a state government-constituted platform for Keralites abroad and in other states, i.e. non-resident Keralites.
- It is the sixth KMS conducted every five years since 1998. It was prepared by the International Institute of Migration and Development (IIMD) and the Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation.
- The survey looked at 20,000 households from all 14 districts of Kerala, including rural and urban areas.
- KMS is among the biggest socio-economic surveys ever conducted in Kerala. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) sampled only 12,330 households statewide.
Key findings:
- Total emigrants increased: The KMS 2023 estimated the number of emigrants from Kerala to be 2.2 million, slightly more than the 2.1 million recorded in 2018.
- Total emigrants returning home increased: The number of emigrants returning home has also increased, from 1.2 million in 2018 to 1.8 million in 2023.
- The decline in emigration to Gulf countries: This is in line with the declining trend seen since 1998 when GCC destinations accounted for 93.8% of Kerala’s emigrants.
- Rising emigration beyond the Gulf: Preference for destinations beyond the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) has grown from 10.8% in 2018 to 19.5% in 2023.
- Rising student emigration: Students constitute 11.3% of total emigrants from Kerala, with overall numbers almost doubling since 2018 — from 129,763 to 250,000.
- Rise in women emigrants: The number and proportion of women emigrants have increased, from 15.8% in 2018 to 19.1% in 2023, with 71.5% of women being graduates as against 34.7% of men.
- 40.5% of women emigrants are in Western countries, compared to only 14.6% of male emigrants.
- Around 51.6% of women emigrants work in the nursing sector.
- Women also make up 45.6% of Kerala’s student migrant population.
- Muslim emigrants: Muslims, who make up 26% of Kerala’s population (according to the 2011 census), make up 41.9% of the state’s emigrants.
- Growing remittances: Rs 216,893 crores in 2023, an increase of 154.9% from Rs 85,092 crores in 2018.
- It amounts to a per capita remittance of Rs 61,118 for the state’s population of 3.55 crores.
- Average remittance per emigrant household also increased to Rs 2.24 lakh in 2023, compared to Rs 96,185 in 2018.
Way forward
- High student migration suggests an urgent need to enhance the state’s educational infrastructure.
- Safe migration pathways for future student emigrants need to be ensured.
- “Brain drain” to “Brain gain”: It is also important to develop new policies that will encourage those studying abroad to return home after acquiring valuable skills.
- Skilling: Given that 76.9% of Kerala’s emigrants are labour emigrants, it is essential to improve and strengthen their skills to help them secure better employment opportunities and pay abroad.
Source: IE
Tamil Nadu Seeks GI Tag for Seven Agricultural Products
Tags:
Why in the news?
- The Tamil Nadu State Agricultural Marketing Board has filed applications for Geographical Indication (GI) tags for seven agricultural products from the state.
- The application process was facilitated by the NABARD-Madurai Agribusiness Incubation Forum (MABIF).
Products seeking GI Tag:
- Senganthal Seed: Senganthal seed is a traditional paddy variety from Tamil Nadu, prized for its drought resistance and adaptability to local soil conditions. It is known for producing nutritious rice with a unique flavour, and is often cultivated using organic farming practices.
- Kolli Hills Pepper: Kolli Hills pepper is cultivated in the Kolli Hills region of Tamil Nadu. It is renowned for its robust flavour and pungency. This pepper is organically grown by tribal farmers and holds a significant place in both domestic and international spice markets.
- Ayyampalayam Nettai Thennai: Ayyampalayam Nettai Thennai refers to a tall coconut variety from Ayyampalayam, Tamil Nadu. Known for its high yield, these coconuts are rich in water and meat, making them ideal for both culinary uses and copra production.
- Tirunelveli Senna Leaf : Tirunelveli Senna leaf is a medicinal plant grown in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. It is widely used for its natural laxative properties. The leaves contain compounds like sennosides, which are effective in treating constipation and are exported globally for pharmaceutical use.
- Sathyamangalam Red Banana: Sathyamangalam red banana is a rare banana variety from Sathyamangalam, Tamil Nadu. Characterised by its reddish skin and sweet, creamy flesh, it is not only a local delicacy but also rich in nutrients like vitamin C and beta-carotene.
- Urigam Puli: Urigam puli is a variety of tamarind known for its rich, tangy flavour. Cultivated in the Urigam region, Tamil Nadu, it is a key ingredient in South Indian cuisine, especially in dishes like sambar and rasam. It is also valued for its antioxidant properties.
- Odaipatti Seedless Grapes : Odaipatti seedless grapes are grown in the Odaipatti region of Tamil Nadu. These grapes are noted for their sweet, juicy flavour and are popular both as fresh fruit and in wine production. They are a significant agricultural product, contributing to the local economy
| What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag? About: A GI tag is a name or sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical location.The GI tag ensures that only authorised users or those residing in the specified area can use the product name.It protects the product from being copied or imitated by others.A registered GI is valid for 10 years.The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry oversees GI registration. Legal Framework and Obligations: The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 provides for the registration and protection of geographical indications in India.It is governed by the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).The importance of protecting industrial property and geographical indications as part of intellectual property is recognized in Articles 1(2) and 10 of the Paris Convention. |
| UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) Prelims Q1. Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015) 1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees 2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma 3. Tirupathi Laddu Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (c) Q:2. India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2018) (a) ILO (b) IMF (c) UNCTAD (d) WTO Ans: (d) |
Source: (TH)
Filoboletus manipularis
Tags: GS-3, Ecology & Environment –biodiversity- Species
Why in the news?
- Recently, researchers have discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms in Kasargod that emit a brilliant, otherworldly green light in the darkness of night.
- The fungi, scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis, are capable of producing their own light through a biochemical process in their cells.
- Bioluminescence in these mushrooms is attributed to a chemical reaction involving luciferin (a pigment) and luciferase (an enzyme), substances that produce light when combined with oxygen.
- The natural glow emitted by these mushrooms is believed to attract insects, facilitating the dispersal of spores and contributing to the fungi’s reproductive cycle.
- They thrive in tropical, humid environments, typically found in dense forests with abundant decaying organic matter, like fallen trees and leaves, as it provides the nutrients and conditions necessary for their growth and their unique glowing property.
- These mushrooms are not fit for consumption as the chemicals that make them glow could be toxic, leading to severe gastrointestinal issues.
Source: IE
Krishi Sakhis
Tags: GS-2, Polity & Governance- SHGs- Govt. Schemes & Initiatives
Why in the news?
- The Prime Minister granted certificates to more than 30,000 women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) as Krishi Sakhis.
- This certification course aligns with the objectives of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Program.
About KSCP:
- The Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program (KSCP) aims to transform rural India by empowering rural women as Krishi Sakhi by imparting training and certification of Krishi Sakhi as Para-extension Workers.
- This initiative aims to create three crore Lakhpati Didis by training and certifying women as Krishi Sakhis, thereby enhancing their agricultural skills and providing new employment opportunities.
- This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Rural Development, aims to improve rural livelihoods and standards of living.
- Krishi Sakhi is envisaged to create awareness and capacity building in the community regarding agricultural activities and facilitate the aggregation and marketing of agricultural products.
- Krishi Sakhis are chosen as agriculture para-extension workers because they are trusted community resource persons and experienced farmers. Their deep roots in farming communities ensure they are welcomed and respected.
Women Workforce in Agriculture Sector:
- Agriculture employs approximately 80% of rural women, according to NITI Aayog.
- The percentage of female operational holdings has risen from 12.78% in 2010-11 to 13.78% in 2015-16.
- Significance:
- Women are responsible for producing 60-80% of the country’s food.
- The ratio of women to men working in agriculture has increased, contributing more significantly to GDP per capita.
- Women’s leadership in agriculture can effectively address and reduce gender inequality
The kind of training provided:
- Agro Ecological Practices from land preparation to harvest
- Organising Farmer Field schools
- Seed banks establishment and management
- Soil health, soil and moisture conservation practices
- Integrated Farming Systems
- Basics of Livestock Management
- Preparation and use of Bio inputs and establishment of Bio inputs shops
- Basic communication skills
| Government Schemes for Women Farmers: Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana: To empower women farmers by making systematic investments aimed at enhancing their participation and productivity in agriculture. Namo Drone Didi: To provide training to women from selected Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) on the use of drones, enabling them to offer rental services for agricultural purposes. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): To offer financial assistance to landholding farmer families, including women farmers, supporting their agricultural activities and financial stability. |
Source: PIB
U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET)
Tags: GS-2 , IR- U.S. & India Relation, GS-3– Science and Technology
Why in the news?
- Recently, the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), led by the Indian National Security Council Secretariat and the U.S. National Security Council was launched in 2023.
- It is a framework for cooperation on critical and emerging technologies (CET) in areas including space, semiconductors, telecommunications, clean energy, biotechnology, etc.
| Significance of ICET Enhances India’s Role: Vital for India’s growing position as a trusted supply chain partner and contributor in the global technology value chain. Addresses Key Domains: Focuses on disruptive domains central to the next Industrial Revolution and future warfare. Opens New Markets: Creates opportunities for India’s deep technology players to enter new markets. |
Key Highlights:
- Innovation:
- Funding: Unlock over $90 million in government funding over the next five years for the U.S.-India Global Challenges Institute to foster research partnerships in areas like semiconductor technology and sustainable agriculture.
- Space Technology Cooperation:
- NASA-ISRO Collaboration: Launch NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, a jointly developed satellite to map Earth’s surface twice every 12 days, aiding climate change efforts.
- Lunar Gateway Programme: Explore opportunities to participate in the Lunar Gateway Programme (LGP), aiming to build a space station around the moon as part of the collaborative Artemis programme led by the U.S.
- Telecommunications:
- Open RAN: Partnerships to deploy cost-effective Open Radio Access Network technology.
- 6G Technologies: Strengthen cooperation in 6G technologies.
- Biotechnology:
- Strategic Framework: Developing a joint strategic framework for optimising and strengthening the global biopharmaceutical supply chain.
- Bio-X Initiative: Launch of the “Bio-X” initiative to promote cooperation in biotechnology and enhance the competitiveness of biotechnology industries.
- Clean Energy:
- Mineral Security: Enhancing mineral security partnership through co-investment in a lithium resource project in South America and rare earths deposit in Africa
| National Security Council: The National Security Council (NSC) of India is the principal body responsible for advising the Prime Minister on matters of national security and strategic interests.It was established by the former Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998, with Brajesh Mishra as the first National Security Advisor. Composition of the NSC: Head of the NSC: Prime MinisterThe Prime Minister oversees all aspects of national security and strategic policy. National Security Advisor: The NSA is the primary advisor to the Prime Minister on national security issues. The NSA coordinates with various ministries, agencies, and departments involved in national security. Members of NSC: National Security Advisor (NSA), Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Deputy National Security Advisors, Union Ministers of Defence, External Affairs, Home, Finance, and Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog Functions of NSC: Policy Formulation and CoordinationIntelligence AssessmentStrategic PlanningCrisis ManagementInternational Security CooperationBefore the NSC was formed, these functions were carried out by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. |
Source: AIR
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