Daily Current Affairs - 18th & 19th March 2026
- Kaushal
- Mar 20
- 22 min read
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | Global Crude Oil Benchmarks & Maritime Law, Operation Sankalp in Strait of Hormuz, Consumer Justice Report 2026, SDG Prosperity & Environmental Sustainability Reports, CARA Adoption Reforms, Maternity Leave Verdict under Social Security Code, Himalayan Cryo-Hydrological Hazards, National Quantum Mission Labs, Nagoya Protocol ABS Report, Ladakh Magmatic Arc Evolution, BHAVYA and more.
Table of Content
Crude Oil Benchmarks
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to volatility in crude oil prices.
This volatility is reflected in international crude oil benchmarks.
Crude oil benchmarks are reference prices used to value crude oil.
They help determine pricing in physical oil trade.
They support hedging activities.
Hedging refers to managing price risk through financial instruments.
Benchmarks also aid price discovery in global markets.
Price discovery refers to determining the fair market price through supply and demand.
The actual oil price equals the benchmark price plus or minus a differential.
The differential depends on quality, location, and transport costs.
Major Global Oil Benchmarks
1. Brent Crude
Brent Crude originates from the North Sea oil fields.
It is the most widely used global benchmark.
It is used to price oil exports from Europe.
It is used for Africa and Middle East exports.
It is widely applied in seaborne oil trade pricing.
Seaborne trade refers to oil transported via shipping routes.
2. West Texas Intermediate (WTI)
West Texas Intermediate is a benchmark for North America.
It serves as an inland benchmark.
It is primarily pipeline-based.
It reflects oil traded within the United States.
3. Dubai/Oman Benchmark
The Dubai Crude benchmark is used mainly for Middle East exports.
It is widely referenced for exports to Asian markets.
It is relevant for pricing oil supplied to countries such as India, China, and Japan.
Significance in Current Context
Geopolitical tensions influence benchmark prices.
Supply disruptions increase price volatility.
Benchmark fluctuations affect domestic fuel prices.
They impact trade balances and inflation in oil-importing countries.
International Maritime Law
A reported incident involving a US submarine torpedoing the Iranian warship IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka in international waters has raised questions regarding the implementation of maritime law.
Such incidents test the legal framework governing conduct at sea.
Legal Framework Governing International Maritime Conduct
1. UNCLOS
The primary legal framework is the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
UNCLOS governs maritime conduct mainly during peacetime.
It defines maritime zones such as Territorial Sea, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and High Seas.
The High Seas are areas beyond national jurisdiction.
UNCLOS does not regulate naval warfare during armed conflicts.
It primarily establishes navigational rights and resource jurisdiction.
2. UN Charter Provisions
The Charter of the United Nations lays down principles governing the use of force.
Article 2(4) prohibits the threat or use of force between states.
This provision applies in international relations.
Article 51 allows use of force in self-defence.
Self-defence is permitted only after an armed attack.
The response must meet conditions of necessity and proportionality.
3. UN Security Council Authorisation
Military action may also occur with authorisation from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Such authorisation is granted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
Chapter VII deals with threats to international peace and security.
It allows collective security measures.
Broader Legal Context
Naval warfare is additionally governed by customary international law.
It is also guided by International Humanitarian Law.
International Humanitarian Law regulates conduct during armed conflict.
Incidents in international waters must therefore be assessed under both maritime law and the law governing use of force.
Operation Sankalp
Indian Naval warships have escorted Indian-flagged merchant vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi, and Jag Laadki from the Gulf of Oman.
The escort operation was conducted under Operation Sankalp.
About Operation Sankalp
Operation Sankalp was launched on 19 June 2019. It was initiated by the Indian Navy.
The objective is to ensure safe passage of Indian-flagged vessels.
It aims to protect India’s maritime trade routes.
It safeguards energy supply lines.
The area of operation includes the Strait of Hormuz. It also covers the Persian Gulf region.
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic maritime chokepoint.
Nearly 20% of global oil trade passes through this strait.
The strait is critical for India’s energy security.
Strategic Significance
India imports a large share of its crude oil.
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz directly affect energy supplies.
Naval escort missions enhance maritime security.
They deter threats such as piracy and hostile interference.
They demonstrate India’s capability to secure sea lanes of communication.
Sea lanes of communication refer to major maritime routes used for trade and transport.
Operation Sankalp reflects India’s proactive maritime security posture in the region.
Consumer Justice Report 2026 Released
The Consumer Justice Report 2026 has been released by the India Justice Report.
The report assesses the capacity and performance of consumer dispute redressal commissions in India.
It evaluates infrastructure, pendency, staffing, and representation.
Key Findings
1. Rising Pendency
Despite improved disposal numbers, pendency has increased.
About 88.5% of 7.64 lakh cases were disposed of post-pandemic.
However, total case pendency rose by 21% between 2020 and 2024.
This exceeds timelines prescribed under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
The Act mandates disposal within three to five months.
2. Underutilisation of Mediation
Alternative dispute resolution remains underused.
Across 23 reporting states, only 134 cases were referred to mediation.
Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party facilitates settlement.
Low referral numbers indicate limited adoption.
3. Declining Representation of Women
Representation of women has declined in State Commissions.
In 14 responding State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions (SCDRCs), women’s share fell.
It declined from 35% in 2021 to 29% in 2025.
This indicates reduced gender diversity in quasi-judicial bodies.
4. High Vacancies
As of 2025, nearly 50% of SCDRCs lacked a sitting president.
Vacancies affect efficiency and case disposal.
Leadership gaps delay hearings and decisions.
Consumer Dispute Redressal Mechanism in India
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaced the 1986 Act.
It strengthened consumer rights and dispute mechanisms.
The Act mandates Consumer Protection Councils at Centre, State, and District levels.
These councils advise on promotion and protection of consumer rights.
Three-Tier Redressal Structure
The Act provides a three-tier dispute resolution mechanism.
The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) hears cases above ₹2 crore.
It also hears appeals from State Commissions.
State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions hear cases between ₹50 lakh and ₹2 crore.
District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions hear cases up to ₹50 lakh.
Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) investigates violations of consumer rights.
It can initiate complaints and prosecution.
It can order recall of unsafe goods and services.
It can impose penalties for misleading advertisements.
Judicial Intervention
Recently, the Supreme Court of India invoked Article 142 of the Constitution.
Article 142 empowers the Court to pass orders for complete justice.
The Court allowed High Courts to hear consumer appeals where commissions are non-functional.
This step aimed to address institutional delays.
Overall Assessment
The report highlights structural bottlenecks. It underscores staffing shortages and limited mediation use. It calls for strengthening institutional capacity. It emphasises timely justice delivery in consumer protection.
SDG Bulletin Report on Prosperity
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the report titled Delivering Prosperity at Scale: India’s Economic Transformation through the SDGs.
The report evaluates India’s economic transformation through the lens of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Sphere | Key Progress | Initiative Taken |
Energy & Electrification (SDG 7) | Near-universal electrification achieved with coverage increasing from 99.77% to 100% | Saubhagya, DDUGJY, UDAY |
Renewable Energy (SDG 7) | Share in installed capacity increased from 16.02% to 22.13% (2015–16 to 2024–25); Fourth-largest global wind energy producer | National Solar Mission, PM-KUSUM, PLI Solar PV, Green Energy Corridor, National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM Surya Ghar |
Digital Connectivity (SDG 9) | Mobile coverage expanded to 99.28% of the population | BharatNet, Digital India, USOF/DBN |
Waste Management & Sanitation (SDG 11) | Door-to-door waste collection increased from 43% to 97.7%; waste processing reached 80.7% | Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban & Rural), GOBARdhan |
Inequality & Financial Inclusion (SDG 10) | Decline in Gini coefficient in rural and urban areas (between 2011–12 and 2023–24) | PMJDY, DBT ecosystem, NFSA, PM-JAY |
Tourism & Economic Recovery (SDG 8) | Tourism sector recorded 227.48% growth in GDP contribution post-pandemic | Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, e-Visa, UDAN |
Power Sector Carbon Intensity (SDG 9) | Carbon intensity declined consistently from 61.45 tonnes CO₂/₹ crore in 2015–16 to 40.52 tonnes in 2022–23 | Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme |
The report highlights measurable progress in infrastructure, sustainability, financial inclusion, and economic recovery aligned with SDG targets.
MoSPI Report: Planet in Focus – Advancing Environmental Sustainability under SDGs
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the report titled Planet in Focus: Advancing Environmental Sustainability under SDGs.
The report evaluates India’s environmental progress under SDGs 6, 12, 13, 14 and 15.
These goals relate to water, sustainable consumption, climate action, marine ecosystems and terrestrial biodiversity.
SDG | Key Progress | Notable Initiatives |
SDG 6 (Clean water and Sanitation) | SDG 6.2.2: India achieved universal, fully sustained Open Defecation Free (ODF) status across all districts. SDG 6.2.3: 97.2% of schools have gender-segregated toilets in 2023–24. | Swachh Bharat Mission (2014), propelling India’s Sanitation Revolution. |
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) | SDG 12.5.1: Waste-recycling infrastructure expanded from 829 facilities in 2019–20 to 3,036 facilities in 2024–25. | Smart Cities Mission (2015), fostering urban sustainability. |
SDG 13 (Climate Action) | SDG 13.1.2: India achieved full compliance with Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 in 2019. SDG 13.1.3: 698 out of 784 local governments implemented disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies aligned with national frameworks. | Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) – Integrated Alert System enabling geo-targeted hazard alerts; Apada Mitra; Mission Mausam. |
SDG 14 (Life below Water) | SDG 14.4.1: Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) in fishing rose from 3.078 million tonnes in 2015–16 to 5.311 million tonnes in 2024–25. | Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana; Push towards Blue Revolution. |
SDG 15 (Life on Land) | SDG 15.1.3: Area of Ramsar sites as a percentage of total wetland area doubled from 4.15% to 8.90%. | National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems; Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). |
The report underscores measurable gains in sanitation, waste management, climate resilience, marine productivity and wetland conservation.
It links environmental sustainability with long-term economic and social resilience.
Horticulture Crops – Final Estimates 2024–25
The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare released the Final 2024–25 horticulture estimates.
Horticulture refers to cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, plantation crops and medicinal plants.
Key Highlights
The total horticulture crop area increased from 290.86 lakh hectares in 2023–24 to 301.36 lakh hectares in 2024–25.
Total horticulture production rose from 3547.44 lakh tonnes to 3707.38 lakh tonnes.
Fruit Production
Fruit production increased by 4.13%. The increase amounted to 46.71 lakh tonnes.
Production reached 1176.49 lakh tonnes in 2024–25.
It was 1129.78 lakh tonnes in 2023–24.
The rise was driven by higher output of banana.
Production of mango also increased.
Mandarin production recorded gains.
Papaya output improved.
Guava production rose.
Watermelon production increased.
Jackfruit production also expanded.
Vegetable Production
Vegetable production increased by 5.11%.
The increase amounted to 105.89 lakh tonnes.
Production reached 2177.97 lakh tonnes in 2024–25.
It was 2072.08 lakh tonnes in 2023–24.
Onion production rose.
Potato output increased.
Green chilli production expanded.
Cauliflower production improved.
Cabbage output increased.
Brinjal production also recorded growth.
Significance
The increase in area and production strengthens food and nutritional security. Higher output supports farmer incomes. Growth in fruits and vegetables contributes to dietary diversification. Horticulture continues to be a high-value segment within agriculture.
Coconut
The Union Budget 2026-27 announced ‘Coconut Promotion Scheme’ aimed at rejuvenating old, non-productive coconut gardens and expanding cultivation along coastal areas.
About Coconut Production
India is the world’s largest producer of coconuts contributing to nearly 30% of the Global coconut production.
Ideal Conditions for Coconut Cultivation
Latitude: 23 degrees North and South of Equator in tropical and hot climate.
Altitude: Grows from sea level up to 600 m.
Temperature: should be from 20 ° to 32°C.
Rainfall: 1000–2500 mm annually.
Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam, laterite, coastal alluvial soils.
Major Producers: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka.
MC Mehta Case
The Supreme Court of India has formally disposed of the landmark 1985 Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by environmentalist M. C. Mehta.
The case became a foundation of modern Indian environmental jurisprudence.
Key Legal Principles Established
1. Principle of Absolute Liability
The Court recognised the principle of Absolute Liability.
Absolute Liability makes hazardous industries fully liable for harm caused.
It does not allow any exceptions or defences.
It is stricter than the English rule of strict liability.
This principle emerged prominently in the Oleum Gas Leak case.
2. Doctrine of Public Trust
The Court applied the Doctrine of Public Trust.
This doctrine holds that certain natural resources belong to the public.
The State acts as a trustee of these resources.
The government must protect such resources for public use.
Natural resources include air, water, forests, and coastlines.
Policy and Administrative Impact
The case contributed to the introduction of lead-free petrol in India.
It led to preparation of coastal management plans by states.
It resulted in shifting stone crushers out of Delhi.
It strengthened environmental governance mechanisms.
Other Landmark Environmental Cases
1. T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Case (1995)
In this case, the Court expanded the definition of forest land.
It included all areas recorded as forests in government records.
This applied regardless of ownership.
The ruling strengthened forest conservation.
2. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum Case (1996)
The Court recognised the Precautionary Principle.
The Precautionary Principle requires preventive action when environmental harm is suspected.
It also recognised the Polluter Pays Principle.
The Polluter Pays Principle mandates that polluters bear the cost of environmental damage.
Both principles became integral to Indian environmental law.
3. S.P. Muthuraman Case (2025)
The Court declared post-facto environmental clearances illegal.
Post-facto clearance refers to approval granted after project commencement.
The ruling reinforced procedural compliance in environmental regulation.
Significance
The MC Mehta case institutionalised environmental accountability. It strengthened judicial activism in environmental protection. It shaped India’s environmental regulatory framework for decades.
CARA Issues Nationwide Directions to Strengthen Adoption Procedures
The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) has issued nationwide memorandums.
The directions are in accordance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
The Act was amended in 2021.
The directions also align with the Adoption Regulations, 2022.
Key Directions
1. Mandatory Strict Due Process
Authorities must conduct due inquiry before declaring a child legally free for adoption.
Tracing of biological parents is mandatory.
Restoration efforts must be made within the prescribed timeframe.
A two-month reconsideration period is provided for surrendered children.
Surrendered children are those voluntarily given up by parents or guardians.
2. Record Management
All adoption records must be securely preserved.
Records must be properly transferred even if institutions shut down.
Records cannot be destroyed.
Records cannot be made inaccessible except as per legal provisions.
This ensures traceability and legal transparency.
3. Absolute Prohibition on Disclosure of Child Identity
Disclosure of the child’s identity is strictly prohibited.
States must sensitise stakeholders on confidentiality.
Penal action must be taken in case of violations.
Confidentiality protects the child’s privacy and dignity.
Child Adoption Regulations in India
The nodal ministry is the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Primary legislation includes the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act also governs adoption among Hindus.
The Guardians and Wards Act governs guardianship.
It applies particularly to Muslims and Christians.
Certain personal laws do not recognise full adoption.
Agencies Established under the JJ Act
National Level
CARA functions as the nodal body.
It regulates in-country adoption.
It regulates inter-country adoption.
Inter-country adoption follows the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption.
India ratified this Convention in 2003.
State and Local Level
State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARA) operate at the state level.
Child Welfare Committees function at the local level.
District Child Protection Units (DCPUs) oversee district-level implementation.
Significance
The directions strengthen procedural safeguards. They enhance transparency and accountability. They prioritise child welfare and legal integrity in adoption processes.
Maternity Leave – Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court of India held that Section 60(4) of the Code on Social Security is unconstitutional.
Section 60(4) granted maternity benefits to an adoptive mother only if the adopted child was less than three months of age.
The Court struck down this age restriction.
The Code on Social Security, 2020 consolidates nine existing social security laws.
It includes the Maternity Benefit Act.
Key Observations of the Court
The Court held that adoptive mothers are entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave.
This entitlement applies irrespective of the age of the adopted child.
The Court expanded the interpretation of reproductive autonomy.
It held that reproductive autonomy is not confined to biological childbirth.
Adoption is an equal exercise of reproductive and decisional autonomy.
The Court linked this right to Article 21 of the Constitution.
Article 21 guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
The right to life includes dignity and autonomy.
Paternity Leave
The Court urged the Union Government to enact laws recognising paternity leave.
It suggested that paternity leave be treated as a social security benefit.
Such recognition would promote shared parental responsibility.
It would align labour law with constitutional principles of equality and dignity.
Cryo-Hydrological Hazard linked to Deglaciation in Himalayas
A recent study by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) found that the 2025 flash flood in Dharali village, Uttarakhand, was not triggered by a cloudburst.
It was also not caused by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
Instead, it was caused by the sudden collapse of an exposed ice patch.
The ice patch was located within the nivation zone of the Srikanta Glacier.
What is Nivation?
Nivation refers to the progressive erosion of the ground beneath and around a snowbank.
It is primarily driven by alternate freeze–thaw cycles.
Freeze–thaw cycles involve repeated melting and refreezing of snow and ice.
This process weakens underlying rock and soil.
It increases geomorphic instability in high-altitude regions.
Causes of Increasing Himalayan Disasters
1. Climate Change
Climate change has accelerated glacier thinning.
It has altered precipitation patterns.
Rising temperatures are reducing seasonal snow cover.
Seasonal snow acts as an insulating layer over underlying ice.
Reduced insulation exposes ice to rapid melting.
2. Thermal and Mechanical Destabilisation
Exposed ice reacts quickly to temperature fluctuations.
Minor disturbances can destabilise it.
It becomes vulnerable to melting and fragmentation.
This increases the likelihood of sudden gravitational collapse.
Effects of Deglaciation in the Himalayas
1. Cascading Cryo-Hydrological Hazards
Cryo-hydrological hazards involve interactions between ice and water systems.
Collapse of ice releases meltwater and debris.
This generates short-duration but high-velocity surges.
Such surges can cause flash floods.
2. Topographic Amplification
The Himalayas consist of steep and confined valleys.
Even small volumes of collapsing ice convert into high gravitational energy.
This produces erosive, debris-laden floods.
Topographic amplification intensifies destructive impact.
3. Socio-Economic Destruction
Flash floods widen river channels.
They damage settlements.
They threaten religious transit hubs.
They endanger downstream communities.
They impact hydropower infrastructure.
Key Definitions
An ice patch is a perennial mass of surface snow, firn, and basal ice.
Firn is compacted granular snow that has not yet turned into glacial ice.
An ice patch lacks internal deformation.
It does not exhibit active flow like a glacier.
Therefore, it is distinct from a true glacier.
Exposed ice patches in satellite imagery act as early-warning indicators.
They signal heightened risk of flash floods.
Broader Significance
The findings highlight emerging cryo-hydrological risks due to deglaciation.
They indicate that not all Himalayan floods are caused by cloudbursts or GLOFs.
They underline the need for improved remote sensing monitoring.
They stress the importance of climate-resilient mountain governance.
Parliamentary Standing Committee Report on IndiaAI Mission
The Parliamentary Standing Committee analysed the Demand for Grants for 2026–27 of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
The report focused on the performance, financial allocations, and execution of the IndiaAI Mission.
Key Issues Identified
1. Under-utilisation of Funds
The Mission utilised only 32% of its Revised Estimate (RE) in FY 2025–26 as of December 2025.
Revised Estimate refers to updated expenditure projections during a financial year.
Due to low utilisation, the 2026–27 Budget Estimate (BE) allocation was halved against proposed requirements.
Budget Estimate refers to projected government expenditure for the upcoming year.
2. Infrastructure Bottlenecks
GPU clusters have been developed under the Mission.
GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) are high-performance processors essential for AI computing.
Major challenges include high hardware costs.
Global supply chain delays affect procurement.
Tax-related issues create additional constraints.
3. Environmental Impact
AI infrastructure requires large-scale data centres.
Data centres consume significant electricity.
They also require substantial water for cooling.
This raises ecological sustainability concerns.
4. R&D and Inclusivity Constraints
Developing a sovereign AI model poses challenges.
A sovereign AI model refers to an indigenous AI system trained on domestic data and infrastructure.
AI research funding is concentrated in premier institutions.
Institutions such as IITs and national laboratories receive major funding.
This limits broader ecosystem participation.
Recommendations of the Committee
1. Financial Discipline
The Committee urged MeitY to strengthen financial discipline.
It recommended accelerating implementation across all pillars.
It advised optimisation of expenditure.
2. Stakeholder Consultation
MeitY should conduct extensive consultations.
Consultations must address hardware procurement challenges.
They must also mitigate global supply constraints.
3. Environmental Mitigation
MeitY should consult environmental experts.
This is necessary to address ecological impact of sovereign data centres.
Sovereign data centres refer to domestically controlled AI infrastructure.
4. Broader R&D Evaluation
MeitY should assess the real-life impact of new initiatives.
These include the Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
They also include the Research Development and Innovation Fund.
The objective is to democratise research funding.
About IndiaAI Mission
The IndiaAI Mission was launched in 2024. It was launched by MeitY.
The aim is to foster AI innovation.
It seeks to democratise computing access.
It aims to enhance data quality.
It focuses on developing indigenous AI capabilities.
The implementing agency is IndiaAI, an Independent Business Division under MeitY.
The Mission is structured around seven pillars.
These include the IndiaAI Innovation Centre, IndiaAI Compute Capacity and IndiaAI FutureSkills.
The duration of the Mission is five years.
Dimethyl Ether (DME)
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) has developed a production process technology for Dimethyl Ether (DME).
DME is considered a Second Generation fuel or bio-fuel.
Second Generation fuels are derived from non-food biomass or alternative feedstocks.
DME can serve as a sustainable alternative to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
About Dimethyl Ether (DME)
DME is a colourless gas.
It has a slight ethereal odour.
It liquefies under moderate pressure.
Properties
DME is chemically inert.
It is non-corrosive. It is non-carcinogenic.
It has low toxicity.
It does not form peroxides on prolonged exposure to air.
Peroxides are unstable compounds that can pose safety risks.
Applications
DME can be used as a fuel.
It is used as an aerosol propellant.
It functions as a solvent.
It can be used as a refrigerant.
Advantages as a Fuel
DME burns cleanly. It emits minimal sulphur oxides (SOx).
It produces lower nitrogen oxides (NOx).
It generates negligible soot and particulate matter.
It has a calorific value comparable to conventional fuels.
Calorific value refers to the amount of energy released during combustion.
Its thermal efficiency is similar to traditional fuels.
DME can be blended with LPG up to 20%.
It can be produced from Indian coal and methanol.
It can be synthesised using captured carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Significance
DME supports diversification of clean energy sources.
It reduces dependence on imported LPG.
It aligns with India’s low-carbon energy transition goals.
National Quantum Mission (NQM)
The Government has cleared 23 institutions to establish ‘quantum labs’ under the National Quantum Mission (NQM).
The Mission is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
About National Quantum Mission
The National Quantum Mission was launched for the period 2023–2031.
It aims to position India as a global leader in quantum technologies.
Quantum technologies leverage principles of quantum mechanics.
Quantum mechanics studies behaviour of matter and energy at atomic and subatomic levels.
Aim of the Mission
The Mission seeks to seed scientific research in Quantum Technology (QT).
It aims to nurture and scale up industrial research and development.
It intends to create a vibrant and innovative quantum ecosystem.
This ecosystem includes academia, startups, and industry.
Mission Objectives
The Mission aims to establish a secure and high-bandwidth quantum communication infrastructure.
The network is planned to span 2,000 kilometres.
Quantum communication uses quantum states to transmit information securely.
It enhances cybersecurity through quantum key distribution.
The Mission aims to develop quantum computers.
Targeted processing capacity ranges between 500 to 1,000 qubits.
A qubit is the basic unit of quantum information.
Unlike classical bits, qubits can exist in superposition.
Superposition allows qubits to represent multiple states simultaneously.
Such systems offer immense computational capabilities.
Significance
Quantum computing can solve complex optimisation problems.
It can accelerate drug discovery and materials science research.
Quantum communication enhances national cybersecurity.
The Mission strengthens India’s strategic and technological capabilities.
White and Brown Fat
Recently in news, fat cells (both white fat and brown fat) can become a promising target for future weight-loss therapies as they burn energy to make heat.
About White Fat and Brown Fat
White Fat is the most abundant fat in adults and Brown Fat is mainly found in neck and upper chest.
Primary Function: White Fat stores energy in the form of triglycerides.
Brown Fat burns energy and dissipates calories; converts chemical energy into heat.
White Fat acts as a powerful endocrine organ, releasing hormones like leptin (to reduce appetite) and adiponectin (to regulate insulin and blood sugar).
Brown Fat is naturally triggered by the brain upon exposure to cold temperatures to generate heat.
Towards ‘Immunisation for All’ in India
India is advancing toward universal immunisation under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).
The programme aims to ensure vaccination coverage for all eligible populations.
About Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP)
The UIP was launched in 1985.
It is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The programme seeks to rapidly increase immunisation coverage.
It aims to establish a reliable cold chain system.
A cold chain system ensures vaccines are stored and transported at prescribed temperatures.
The programme also aims to achieve self-sufficiency in vaccine production.
Disease Coverage
The UIP provides protection against 12 life-threatening diseases.
These include Diphtheria, Polio, Tetanus, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and Measles-Rubella.
Vaccination reduces morbidity and mortality from preventable diseases.
Mission Indradhanush
Mission Indradhanush was launched in 2015.
It targets unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children.
It also covers pregnant women.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush followed the initial mission.
It places greater focus on urban and hard-to-reach populations.
The objective is to achieve over 90% full immunisation coverage.
It strengthens routine immunisation services.
It targets underserved and vulnerable groups.
Digital Backbone of UIP
U-Win
U-Win is a digital application.
It helps citizens locate nearby vaccination centres.
It allows appointment management at health facilities.
It maintains digital vaccination records.
Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN)
eVIN is a real-time vaccine tracking platform.
It monitors vaccine stock levels.
It tracks storage temperatures.
It operates across multiple locations nationwide.
It improves supply chain efficiency.
Achievements under UIP
India has eradicated smallpox, yaws and Polio.
It has eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus.
Full immunisation coverage increased from 62% in 2015 to 98.4% as of January 2026.
The proportion of zero-dose children declined from 0.11% in 2023 to 0.06% in 2024.
Zero-dose children are those who have never received routine immunisation.
India is the world’s largest vaccine producer.
It supplies approximately 60% of global vaccines.
Significance
The UIP strengthens public health resilience.
It reduces child mortality.
It advances progress toward Sustainable Development Goals.
It positions India as a global leader in vaccine production and immunisation coverage.
‘Reducing Methane Emissions from Landfills: The potential of biocover systems’ Report Released
This report released by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) highlights how simple, relatively affordable and locally adaptable solutions like methane mitigation oxidation covers (such as biocovers) can effectively mitigate landfill methane emissions while improving air quality and public health.
A biocover is a microbial system which uses naturally occurring bacteria to oxidize methane into less harmful carbon dioxide and water.
It is capable of mitigating up to 50% of the methane generation over a 100-year period.
Landfill Emissions
Landfills are one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing sources of methane, responsible for about 11% of all human-made emissions.
Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, and has high global warming potential (28–84 times higher than carbon dioxide).
Long-Term Emissions: Biodegradation of organic waste can typically take 2-3 decades, with methane emissions continuing for up to 100 years at landfill sites.
Risks: Methane becomes explosive at concentrations of 4.4%–16.5% in air which can trigger prolonged fire.
Landfill gas contains toxic trace components such as VOCs, hydrogen sulphide, and solvents that causes environmental and human health issues.
Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC)
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India Submits First National Report on Nagoya Protocol Implementation
India has submitted its first National Report on the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS).
The report highlights India’s contribution toward Target 13 of its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP).
About the Nagoya Protocol on ABS
The Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
The CBD was adopted at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 and entered into force in 1993.
The Nagoya Protocol was adopted in 2010 and entered into force in 2014.
Objective
It aims to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources.
It supports biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
Scope of the Protocol
The Protocol covers:
Genetic resources (plants, animals, microorganisms)
Traditional Knowledge (TK) associated with genetic resources
Benefits arising from research and commercial utilisation
Core Obligations
Access:Requires Prior Informed Consent (PIC) from the provider country before accessing biological resources.
Benefit Sharing:Benefits must be shared based on Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT).
Compliance:Ensures that genetic resources are utilised as per PIC and MAT.
Implementation in India
India implements ABS provisions through the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
It follows a three-tier institutional structure:
National Biodiversity Authority (National level)
State Biodiversity Boards / UT Biodiversity Councils
Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) at local level
Key Findings of the National Report
1. Implementation Performance
12,830 ABS approvals issued
3,556 Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance published
Accounts for approximately 60% of the global total
This reflects strong institutional enforcement.
2. Benefit Sharing Outcomes
₹216.31 crore mobilised
₹139.69 crore distributed to communities, farmers and BMCs
This strengthens community participation in biodiversity conservation.
3. Capacity Building
Over 2.76 lakh Biodiversity Management Committees established
2.56 lakh individuals trained
3,724 training programmes and 600+ initiatives conducted
4. Non-Monetary Benefits
395 approvals include non-monetary benefits
These include technology transfer, collaborative research and capacity development
Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Researchers discovered 9 new species at Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
About Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Megamalai, Theni district, Tamil Nadu.
Situated near Tamil Nadu–Kerala border, acts as a buffer zone for Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Also, an Eco- sensitive Zone
Share boundaries with: Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary (TN) and Periyar Tiger Reserve (Kerala).
Part of: Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve (SMTR)
Rivers: Vaigai, Suruliyaru, Shanmuganathi.
Fauna: Elephants, tigers, leopards, Nilgiri tahr, sambar deer, Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaque, common langur, sloth bear, lying squirrel, etc.
Ladakh Magmatic Arc (LMA)
Scientists have decoded the geological evolution of the Ladakh Magmatic Arc (LMA) in the north-western Himalaya.
About the Ladakh Magmatic Arc
The LMA is a belt of igneous rocks located in the Trans-Himalaya region.
It represents a long-extinct volcanic arc system.
The arc preserves nearly 130 million years of plate tectonic history.
It records:
Subduction processes
Magmatic maturation
Final collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates
Geological Formation
The present Ladakh region once lay above the Neo-Tethys Ocean.
Beneath this ocean, dense oceanic crust descended into the mantle.
This process is known as subduction.
Subduction generated magma through partial melting of the descending slab.
The magma rose to the surface, forming volcanic and plutonic rocks.
Over time, this magmatic activity created the Ladakh Magmatic Arc.
Tectonic Significance
The LMA documents:
Closure of the Neo-Tethys Ocean
Northward movement of the Indian Plate
Continental collision with the Eurasian Plate
The eventual collision uplifted the Himalayas.
Thus, the LMA provides a geological archive of the India–Eurasia convergence.
Scientific Importance
The study of the LMA helps:
Understand Himalayan mountain-building processes
Reconstruct ancient oceanic and tectonic environments
Assess crustal evolution in continental collision zones
It remains a key natural laboratory for studying long-term plate tectonic evolution.
Union Cabinet Approves Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA)
The Union Cabinet has approved Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA) to usher in a new phase of plug-and-play industrial development.
The scheme aims to create world-class industrial infrastructure aligned with national manufacturing goals.
Objective of BHAVYA
Develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India.
Total allocation: ₹33,660 crore.
Duration: 6 years (FY 2026–27 to 2031–32).
An industrial park refers to a planned tract of land, with or without ready-built factories, supported by shared facilities for multiple industries.
Key Features of BHAVYA
1. Cluster-Based Development
Co-location of industries, suppliers, and service providers.
Promotes economies of scale and supply chain integration.
2. Futuristic Planning
Aligned with PM Gati Shakti principles.
Emphasises integrated planning and multimodal connectivity.
3. Ease of Doing Business
Streamlined approvals.
Single-window systems.
Investor-friendly regulatory reforms.
4. Sustainable Resource Use
Underground utility corridors.
No-dig infrastructure environment.
Integrated drainage and common treatment facilities.
Eligibility Criteria
Industrial parks ranging from 100 to 1000 acres.
Minimum size for North-East and hilly regions: 25 acres.
Financial Support
Up to ₹1 crore per acre.
Support includes:
Core Infrastructure:
Internal roads
Underground utilities
Drainage
Common treatment facilities
ICT and administrative systems
Value-Added Infrastructure:
Ready-built factory sheds
Built-to-suit units
Testing laboratories
Warehousing
Social Infrastructure:
Worker housing
Support amenities
Additionally, external infrastructure support up to 25% of project cost will be provided.
Beneficiaries
Primary Beneficiaries:
Manufacturing units
MSMEs
Startups
Global investors
Secondary Beneficiaries:
Workers
Logistics providers
Service sector enterprises
Local communities
Implementation Framework
The scheme will be implemented by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC).
It functions under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
Implementation will occur in partnership with State Governments and the private sector.
Plug-and-Play Industrial Parks in India
Plug-and-play parks are ready-to-use industrial ecosystems.
Land, utilities, approvals, and infrastructure are pre-developed.
Industries can commence operations without procedural delays.
Union Budget 2025–26 allocated ₹2,500 crore for such parks.
India currently has 306 plug-and-play industrial parks.
Additional 20 parks and smart cities are under development through NICDC (as of December 2025).
Significance
BHAVYA strengthens India’s manufacturing ecosystem.
It enhances competitiveness and reduces project gestation periods.
It integrates sustainability with industrial growth.
It supports the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and global manufacturing integration.
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