Daily Current Affairs - 13th October 2025
- TPP
- Oct 13
- 12 min read
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The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Report was released by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the World Health Summit in Berlin.
The report highlights a major shift in India’s disease burden from communicable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) between 1990 and 2023.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are chronic diseases that are not transmitted from person to person.
Common examples of NCDs include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases.
NCDs are generally long-duration conditions, caused by a mix of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioral factors.
By 2023, NCDs had become the leading causes of death in India, overtaking infectious diseases, except COVID-19.
The decline in infectious diseases in India is attributed to improved healthcare access, wider immunization coverage, and better sanitation practices.
A notable concern is the sharp rise in mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression between 2013 and 2023.
Mental health disorders are part of the broader category of NCDs, affecting emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Among the top three risk factors for early death and disability in India, air pollution continues to be a critical public health challenge.
Air pollution contributes to multiple NCDs such as chronic respiratory conditions, heart disease, and stroke.
Globally, NCDs account for nearly two-thirds of total mortality and morbidity, making them a leading cause of health loss worldwide.
India’s Initiatives to Combat NCDs
The Eat Right India movement, initiated by FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), promotes healthy and balanced eating habits.
The Fit India Movement, launched in 2019, encourages people to adopt a physically active lifestyle and integrate fitness into daily routines.
The National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) was launched in 2007–08 to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco.
NTCP also aims to reduce tobacco production and consumption, which are major risk factors for multiple NCDs, especially cancer and heart diseases.
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) was launched in 2010.
NPCDCS focuses on screening, early diagnosis, treatment, and capacity building to manage common NCDs across the country.
The Global Land Outlook Thematic Report focuses on Ecological Connectivity and Land Restoration as critical components for global sustainability.
This report was launched at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi.
It was jointly prepared by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS).
The report urges countries to integrate Ecological Connectivity into land, water, and infrastructure planning processes.
Understanding Ecological Connectivity
Ecological Connectivity refers to the uninterrupted movement of species and unhindered connection of habitats, ensuring the flow of natural processes essential for sustaining life.
These natural processes include the movement of organisms, energy, nutrients, water, sediments, information, knowledge, and even cultural values.
Successful Models of Ecological Connectivity
The European Green Belt is a successful connectivity model, extending through 24 countries, from northern Europe to the Balkans and the Mediterranean.
Costa Rica offers another example with its system of wildlife corridors, supporting species such as jaguars.
Major Threats to Ecological Connectivity
Altered Habitats pose a major threat, with over 60% of the world’s rivers being diverted or dammed, disrupting fish migrations.
The Mekong River is a notable example where such disruptions impact aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Infrastructure Development is another major threat, especially due to linear infrastructure such as roads, railways, and pipelines.
These infrastructures cause land degradation and fragmentation both directly through land clearing and indirectly by promoting settlements and secondary road development.
This pattern of indirect development is known as the fishbone effect, where branching infrastructure disrupts the ecological landscape further.
Key Recommendations for Promoting Ecological Connectivity
In agriculture, the report recommends adopting sustainable practices such as Regenerative Agriculture, Vertical Agriculture, Hydroponics, and Aquaponics.
It also stresses Water Harvesting and Soil Moisture Management as crucial techniques to support ecological balance in farming systems.
In the forestry sector, it suggests Assisted Natural Regeneration, which combines active planting with passive ecosystem restoration.
For water management, it recommends using Bioretention Areas, River Floodplains, and Natural Inland Wetlands to maintain ecological functions.
To enhance ecological connectivity, the creation of Ecological Corridors and effective management of invasive species is emphasized.
In urban areas, the report promotes Greening Cities through initiatives like Urban Forests and Urban Green Corridors.
The Union Finance Ministry has granted approval for Maitri II, a new Indian research station in Eastern Antarctica.
Maitri II will be India’s 4th research base in Antarctica and is expected to become operational by January 2029.
The station will be designed as a green research base, powered entirely by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy.
It will also house automated instruments for conducting scientific experiments in remote conditions.
Importance of the Antarctica Region
Antarctica is considered the World’s Natural Laboratory, offering key insights into Earth’s climate and ocean systems.
It is the 5th largest continent on Earth and serves as a natural tracker of global climate change.
Antarctica holds nearly 75% of the Earth’s freshwater reserves, stored primarily in its massive ice sheets.
The region is also rich in natural resources, including edible algae and over 200 species of fish.
Recent discoveries in Antarctica have revealed deposits of iron and copper, indicating its mineral potential.
The continent holds growing geopolitical significance due to overlapping territorial claims by various countries.
China’s expansion in the region through dual-use critical infrastructures has raised global concerns over security and sovereignty.
India’s Initiatives in Antarctica
India currently operates two active research stations in Antarctica — Maitri (commissioned in 1989) and Bharati (commissioned in 2012).
India’s first station, Dakshin Gangotri, was established during 1983–84 and remained operational until 1990.
The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), based in Goa, is the nodal agency responsible for India’s polar missions.
NCPOR functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences and manages scientific activities in the polar and southern ocean regions.
To provide a legal framework for India’s activities, the Indian Antarctic Act 2022 was enacted.
The Act provides for national measures to protect the Antarctic environment and its dependent and associated ecosystems.
On the international front, India has been a Consultative Party to the Antarctic Treaty since 1983.
The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959, promotes the peaceful use of Antarctica, ensures freedom of scientific investigation, and encourages international cooperation.
The Executive Council of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has approved the Guidelines and Special Purpose Fund (SPF) for the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme.
The approval aims to ensure seamless execution of the scheme and promote effective private sector participation in research.
It also supports the goal of achieving long-term innovation and strengthening the national R&D ecosystem.
About ANRF and Institutional Framework
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) was established through the ANRF Act, 2023.
ANRF serves as an apex body to provide high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India.
The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), which was established under the 2008 Act, has been subsumed into ANRF.
About the RDI Scheme
The Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme involves the creation of a ₹1 Lakh crore RDI Fund.
The fund was approved by the Union Cabinet on July 1, 2025, to promote large-scale research initiatives.
The Department of Science & Technology (DST) is the nodal department responsible for implementing the scheme.
Funding Structure of the RDI Scheme
The RDI Scheme operates through a two-tiered funding structure to ensure efficient financial management.
At the first level, a Special Purpose Fund (SPF) is being set up under ANRF, which will act as the primary custodian of the funds.
The second level includes Second-Level Fund Managers (SLFMs) who will implement investments on the ground.
SLFMs may include Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), or Focused Research Organizations (FROs).
Examples of FROs include the Technology Development Board (TDB), Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), and IIT Research Parks.
The scheme excludes grants and short-term loans, ensuring focus on sustainable, long-term financing mechanisms.
Funding can cover up to 50% of the assessed project cost for transformative RDI projects.
Only projects at Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 4 and above are eligible, where TRL 4 represents validation of technology in a lab environment.
Key Objectives of the RDI Scheme
One key objective is to incentivize active private sector participation in cutting-edge research and innovation.
The scheme focuses on promoting strategic technologies, especially deep technologies.
Deep technologies include complex and emerging fields such as quantum computing, robotics, and space technologies.
The scheme aims to foster self-reliance and economic security, particularly in sectors critical for strategic or economic reasons.
It ensures flexibility in sectoral support, allowing funding for any additional sectors or technologies deemed essential for public interest.
The Prime Minister launched two major schemes in the agriculture sector I.e., PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses.
Key Features
The IUCN World Heritage Outlook 4 report was released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The report assesses the conservation status of natural and mixed World Heritage sites globally.
Natural World Heritage Sites are areas recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding natural value and ecological significance.
Mixed World Heritage Sites are designated for possessing both natural and cultural significance.
Global Key Findings from the Report
For the first time, there has been a significant decline in the percentage of sites worldwide with a positive conservation outlook.
A positive conservation outlook refers to the likelihood that a site’s values will be maintained or enhanced over time.
India-Specific Findings in the Outlook 4 Report
In India, only the Khangchendzonga National Park has retained a ‘Good’ rating in its Conservation Outlook.
The Sundarbans National Park has experienced a deterioration in its status over the review period 2020–2025.
Its rating has declined from ‘Good with Some Concerns’ to ‘Significant Concerns’ in the latest assessment.
A rating of ‘Significant Concerns’ indicates that threats to the site’s values are severe and require urgent conservation action.
Manas National Park in Assam and the Western Ghats have also been placed in the ‘Significant Concern’ category.
Five beaches in Maharashtra have received the prestigious International Blue Flag Certification.
The certified beaches are Shrivardhan, Nagaon, Parnaka, Guhagar, and Ladghar.
About Blue Flag Certification
The Blue Flag Certification is an international eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats.
It is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) based in Denmark.
The certification programme has been in operation since 1985, making it one of the oldest and most respected global environmental labels.
To receive the Blue Flag, a site must meet 33 strict criteria focused on cleanliness, natural beauty, and environmental sustainability.
Significance and Criteria of the Certification
The Blue Flag is a globally recognized symbol of high environmental and safety standards.
The certification encourages maintenance of clean and safe bathing water, sustainable coastal development, and responsible tourism.
Evaluation criteria include environmental education, water quality, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.
It also assesses accessibility, visitor safety, emergency services, infrastructure, and active stakeholder participation.
The goal is to promote responsible behavior among tourists and beach operators, while ensuring long-term coastal sustainability.
The fourth edition of India-Australia joint military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025 began in Australia
It is an annual exercise aimed at enhancing military cooperation, improving interoperability, etc.
The Director of Kaziranga National Park has become the first Indian to receive the prestigious Kenton R. Miller Award.
The award is presented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for innovation in national parks.
About the Kenton R. Miller Award
The Kenton R. Miller Award was established in 2006 to honor individual leadership and innovation in the conservation of national parks and protected areas.
It is awarded by the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), a technical commission under IUCN.
The WCPA is one of six technical commissions of the IUCN, focusing on the planning and management of protected areas worldwide.
The award aims to recognize outstanding contributions that promote sustainability, innovation, and effective governance in protected area management.
The Kenton R. Miller Award is presented once every two years by the IUCN-WCPA.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has, for the first time, evaluated the Indian Wolf as a potentially distinct species within the Canis genus.
The Canis genus includes wolves, jackals, and coyotes, and currently comprises seven recognized species under IUCN classification.
With the Indian wolf's inclusion, it may become the eighth recognized species in this genus.
About the Indian Wolf
The Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a subspecies of the grey wolf and is adapted to dry and open habitats.
It primarily inhabits thorn forests, scrublands, and arid to semi-arid grasslands in India.
A few populations are also found in parts of Pakistan, indicating a cross-border distribution.
The Indian wolf is one of the common large carnivores in the agro-pastoral regions of semi-arid India.
Agro-pastoral regions are areas where agriculture and livestock rearing coexist, often creating human-wildlife interaction zones.
Threats and Conservation
The Indian wolf faces major threats including habitat loss, primarily due to land-use change and urban expansion.
It is also affected by conflict with humans, especially due to livestock predation, which leads to retaliatory killings.
Diseases, particularly those transmitted by domestic dogs, pose an additional threat to its survival.
The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Indian Wolf as Vulnerable, indicating a high risk of extinction in the wild.
A recent collision occurred between a Chinese ship and a Philippine vessel near Thitu Island, escalating tensions in the region.
Thitu Island, also known as Pag-asa Island, is the largest island occupied by the Philippines in the Spratly Islands.
The Spratly Islands are a strategic and resource-rich group of islands located in the South China Sea.
Thitu Island holds strategic military and geopolitical significance for the Philippines in asserting its territorial claims.
The island has been at the center of ongoing territorial disputes between the Philippines and China.
These disputes are part of the broader South China Sea conflict, involving multiple countries and overlapping claims.
Fresh border clashes have erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan along the disputed Durand Line.
The Durand Line is a 2,640-kilometre international land border that separates Afghanistan and Pakistan.
It was established in the year 1893 through an agreement between Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, the Foreign Secretary of British India, and Amir Abdur Rahman Khan, the Emir of Afghanistan.
The line was intended to serve as a diplomatic boundary between British India and Afghanistan during colonial times.
Since the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the Durand Line has remained a contentious and disputed border, particularly for Afghanistan, which has never officially recognized it as an international boundary.
The dispute continues to fuel periodic tensions and skirmishes, affecting regional stability and bilateral relations.
UNESCO has launched the world’s first Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Objects at MONDIACULT 2025.
MONDIACULT is the world's largest conference on cultural policies, convened to shape global cultural agendas.
About the Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Objects
The Virtual Museum is a global digital platform aimed at combating the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage.
It uses advanced technologies to digitally display and document cultural objects that have been stolen or illicitly traded.
The museum currently exhibits around 240 stolen objects from 46 countries.
These objects include sculptures, idols, fossils, and paintings, representing diverse cultural traditions.
Indian Artifacts in the Virtual Museum
Among the highlighted Indian items are two 9th-century sandstone sculptures from the Mahadev Temple in Pali, Chhattisgarh.
The first is Nataraja, depicting Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance, symbolizing creation and destruction.
The second is Brahma, shown seated in lalitasana, a posture of ease and grace, representing wisdom and creation.
The New Delhi Declaration on 6G was issued by leading 6G alliances and research institutions.
It was released during the International Bharat 6G Symposium 2025, held alongside the India Mobile Congress in New Delhi.
Key Highlights of the New Delhi Declaration
The declaration emphasizes that 6G technology should be developed as a global public good.
A global public good refers to a resource or technology that benefits all countries and people equally, without exclusion.
It presents a shared vision for 6G based on the principles of openness, inclusivity, and sustainability.
About 6G Technology
6G, or sixth-generation wireless, is the successor to 5G in mobile cellular technology.
It is expected to offer significantly higher data speeds than 5G.
It will also provide much lower latency, which means faster response times for real-time applications.
6G will integrate communication and sensing capabilities, allowing devices to detect, interpret, and respond to physical environments.
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