Daily Current Affairs - 20th & 21st March 2026
- Kaushal
- Mar 23
- 22 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | Force Majeure Declarations amid West Asia Conflict, Reopening of Shipki La Pass Trade, Crop Diversification Policy Debate, Index of Core Industries Slowdown, World Happiness Report 2026, Global Terrorism Index 2026, UNIGME Child Mortality Report 2025, Postal Ballot Expansion & MCMC Guidelines, India’s Defence MSMEs, Astronaut Re-entry Technology, RELIEF under Export Promotion Mission and more.
Table of Content
REPORTS & INDICES
SOCIAL ISSUES
In the backdrop of the United States-Israel war on Iran, Gulf countries, including Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, have declared force majeure on gas exports.
About Force Majeure
The phrase comes from French and means “superior force.”
It is a clause in a contract excuses a party from performing its obligations when unforeseen events beyond its control (e.g., natural diaster etc.) render performance impossible or impracticable.
Trade between India and China will commence from June 1 through the Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh.
Trade through the pass was disrupted following the Doklam standoff and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2025, India and China agreed to re-open border trade through the three designated trading points, namely Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand), Shipki-La Pass and Nathu-La Pass (Sikkim).
Lipulekh Pass is located close to the tri-junction of India, China (Tibet) and Nepal.
About Shipki La Pass
It connects India and Tibet (China).
It was earlier known as Pema La, or Shared Pass.
The Sutlej River enters India at Shipki La.
In the recent Iran conflict, several strategically important energy infrastructure sites—such as oil reserves and export facilities—have been attacked.
Key Places
The South Pars gas field, located off Iran’s southern coast.
It is part of a massive gas reserve shared with Qatar’s North Dome gas field, together forming the largest natural gas reservoir in the world.
Ras Laffan Industrial City (Qatar)- home to the world’s largest LNG export plant.
Shah gas field (Abu Dhabi)-home to the world’s largest ultra-sour gas operation.
Sour gas is natural gas containing significant amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)
Israel reportedly struck Iranian targets in the Caspian Sea for the first time.
About Caspian Sea
Actually a saltwater lake, the Caspian Sea is the largest inland body of water on Earth.
Located in central Eurasia, it is bordered by five countries: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, and Iran.
It is renowned for its substantial petroleum and natural gas reserves.
Key rivers draining into Caspian Sea: Volga, Emba, Ural
Biodiversity: world's largest spawning grounds of sturgeon, home to the only marine mammal that lives in the Sea, the endemic Caspian Seal.
In Kisan Mahapanchayat v. Union of India and Ors, the Supreme Court examined the policy of importing yellow dal at zero duty.
The petition argued that duty-free imports depressed domestic prices and discouraged Indian farmers from cultivating pulses.
The Court urged the Government to revisit crop diversification policy to ensure coherence between MSP, import policy, and farmer incentives.
What is Crop Diversification?
Crop diversification refers to the introduction of new crops or cropping systems on a farm.
It is based on:
Better economic returns
Value-added crops
Complementary marketing opportunities
Reduced production risk
Need for Crop Diversification
1. Dominance of Wheat and Paddy
Excessive focus on wheat–paddy cropping has:
Created surplus stocks
Reduced pulses and oilseeds production
Increased import dependence
2. Environmental Sustainability
The paddy-wheat cycle, especially in North India, has caused:
Groundwater depletion
Soil degradation
3. Nutritional Security
Higher pulses production supports:
Balanced diets
Protein security
4. Soil Health
Pulses are nitrogen-fixing crops.They improve soil fertility and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Key Government Initiatives for Crop Diversification
Crop Diversification Programme (CDP) under Pradhan Mantri–Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY)
Mission for Aatmanirbharata on Pulses
National Mission on Edible Oil (NMEO)–Oilseeds
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
These schemes aim to promote pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture crops as alternatives to wheat and paddy.
Challenges in Diversification
1. Absence of Incentivised MSP
Pulses often sell below MSP in open markets.
Farmers lack assured procurement support.
2. MSP–Import Policy Mismatch
Low import duties reduce domestic price competitiveness.
Undermines financial viability of diversification.
3. Structural Constraints
Lack of infrastructure and storage
Limited capital and risk-taking ability
Climatic variability
Inadequate technical knowledge
Key Suggestions of the Supreme Court
1. Governance Reforms
Strengthen inter-ministerial coordination.
Develop a long-term, stable policy for pulses and oilseeds.
2. MSP and Price Support
MSP should reflect risks and costs faced by small farmers, consistent with the Swaminathan Committee recommendations.
Ensure guaranteed procurement platforms for pulses.
Conduct multi-stakeholder consultations, including ground-level experts.
3. Import Policy Alignment
Align import duty structure with domestic MSP.
Prevent imports from disincentivizing local production.
Significance
The Court emphasized policy coherence in agriculture.
It highlighted the need for predictable pricing and stable incentives.
Effective crop diversification is critical for:
Farmer income security
Nutritional sustainability
Environmental resilience
Reduced import dependence on pulses and edible oils.
Growth of combined ICI slowed to 2.3% in February, compared with 4.7% in January, on an annual basis.
About ICI
It covers eight core industries viz. Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity.
They comprise 40.27% of weight of items in Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
Released by:Office of the Economic Advisor, Department for Promotion of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Commerce.
The World Happiness Report 2026 was published with the theme ‘Happiness and Social Media’, highlighting the "concerning" decline in youth happiness, linking it to usage of social media.
About World Happiness Report 2026
Published by: The Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, in partnership with Gallup, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
Top 3 ranked countries: Finland, Iceland, Denmark.
Bottom 3 ranked countries: Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Malawi
India ranked 116th of 147 countries, a slight improvement from 118th in 2025 and 126th in 2024.
Global Terrorism Index, 2026 was recently published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), a Sydney-based independent, non-profit think tank.
Key Findings
Top rank: Pakistan recorded the highest score, being the country most impacted by terrorism.
~ 70% of deaths from terrorism occurred in only 5 countries: Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Substantial fall in terrorism: Deaths from terrorism fell 28% and number of attacks declined by ~ 22%.
4 deadliest terrorist organisations (2025): IS, Jamaat Nusrat Al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and alShabaab.
Indias’ rank: 13th
The Levels and Trends in Child Mortality Report 2025 highlights significant progress made by India in reducing child mortality. The report is released by the UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation, which tracks global progress on child survival indicators.
Key Findings Related to India
Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR): Declined to 26.6 per 1,000 live births in 2024, down from 127 in 1990, marking a 79% reduction.
Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR): Reduced to 17 per 1,000 live births in 2024.
Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Declined to 23.3 per 1,000 live births in 2024.
These trends demonstrate India’s consistent progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2 targets on child survival.
Key Drivers of Progress
1. Maternal and Child Health Initiatives
Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): Promotes institutional deliveries through financial incentives.
Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK): Ensures free delivery, treatment, diagnostics, and transport services for pregnant women and newborns.
2. Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP)
Expanded coverage against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Strengthened routine immunisation and cold chain infrastructure.
3. Facility-Based Newborn Care
Establishment of Special Newborn Care Units (SNCUs), Newborn Stabilization Units (NBSUs), and Newborn Care Corners (NBCCs).
4. Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI)
Focuses on early detection and management of childhood diseases to reduce mortality and morbidity.
Significance of the Report
Demonstrates India’s sustained improvements in child survival over three decades.
Reflects the effectiveness of targeted public health interventions and institutional healthcare expansion.
Supports evidence-based policymaking for achieving SDG targets and strengthening child health systems.
India’s progress under the UNIGME Report 2025 reinforces its commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes and advancing sustainable development goals.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended the facility of postal ballot voting to electors aged above 85 years and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to enhance electoral inclusivity and accessibility.
About Postal Ballot
A postal ballot allows eligible voters to cast their vote remotely without physically visiting a polling station. This system ensures participation of voters who are unable to attend polling booths due to service obligations, health conditions, or other constraints.
The voter receives the ballot electronically or physically.
The ballot is printed, marked manually, and returned through post or designated collection mechanisms.
Legal Framework
Postal ballot provisions are governed by:
Representation of the People Act
Conduct of Election Rules
These laws empower the Election Commission to prescribe procedures and categories of eligible voters.
Eligibility for Postal Ballot
1. Service Voters
Includes:
Members of the Armed Forces
Central Armed Police Forces personnel
Government employees posted abroad
2. Special Voters
Includes:
President of India
Vice President
Governors
Union Cabinet Ministers and their spouses
3. Absentee Voters
Includes:
Senior citizens aged 85 years and above
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
Voters affected by essential service duties or health constraints
4. Electors Under Preventive Detention
5. Election Duty Personnel
Officials engaged in polling, security, or election management who cannot vote at their designated polling stations.
Significance
Enhances Inclusivity: Enables participation of elderly and differently-abled voters.
Strengthens Democratic Participation: Ensures no eligible voter is disenfranchised due to physical or logistical constraints.
Supports Accessible Elections: Aligns with the ECI’s commitment to inclusive and voter-friendly electoral processes.
The extension of postal ballot facilities reflects India’s efforts to make elections more accessible while maintaining the integrity and secrecy of the voting process.
ECI has issued orders requiring to apply to the MCMC for pre-certification of all political advertisements on electronic and social media.
About MCMC
Created by: ECI
Purpose: Ensuring compliance with EC guidelines and preventing paid news or misleading content.
Strict vigil on suspected cases of paid news in the media and take suitable action.
At the National Defence Industries Conclave 2026, the Defence Minister emphasized the growing contribution of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
Key Roles of MSMEs in Defence
1. Cutting-Edge Technologies
Unmanned Systems & Drones
ideaForge supplies UAVs to the Indian Army for high-altitude logistics and border surveillance.
EyeROV and Sagar Defence Engineering develop underwater and surface drones for maritime and ground operations.
Cyber Defence & Secure Communications
QNu Labs works on quantum-secure communication systems.
QpiAI contributes to advanced computing and AI-based defence solutions.
Signalchip develops indigenous communication chipsets and space-related technologies.
Aerospace & Surveillance
NewSpace Research and Technologies focuses on stratospheric platforms and sensor fusion technologies for surveillance.
2. Suppliers of Critical Sub-Systems
MSMEs manufacture vital components for:
Missiles
Naval ships
Military vehicles
Aircraft systems
They form the backbone of defence supply chains by producing precision-engineered parts and electronic subsystems.
3. Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
MSMEs increasingly provide MRO services for:
Military aircraft
Armoured vehicles
Naval equipment
This reduces dependence on foreign service providers and strengthens domestic defence readiness.
Steps Taken to Promote MSMEs
1. Enhanced Budgetary Support:
The Union Budget 2026–27 allocated ₹7.85 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, expanding procurement opportunities for MSMEs.
2. Innovation-Focused Schemes
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) encourages startups and MSMEs to develop indigenous technologies.
Technology Development Fund (TDF) supports R&D by MSMEs through financial assistance.
The Department of Defence Production operates dedicated sponsorship schemes for MSME participation.
Status of MSMEs in the Defence Sector
Approximately 8,000 MSMEs are actively engaged in defence manufacturing and services.
They hold the largest market share in procurement after Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and large private industries.
The Defence Minister emphasized the growing importance of drones and counter-drone systems in modern warfare and called for building a robust domestic drone production ecosystem to ensure strategic autonomy.
Role of Drones in Warfare
1. Surveillance and Reconnaissance
Drones provide real-time, high-definition imagery.They enable monitoring of enemy movement without exposing troops to direct risk.
2. Suppression of Defences
Drone saturation tactics can overwhelm air defence systems.Example: Russia’s deployment of Shahed drones in Ukraine.
3. Low-Cost Warfare
Affordable UAVs integrated with commercial technologies can produce disproportionate strategic impact.Example: Ukraine’s Operation Spider Web.
4. Electronic Warfare
Advanced drones can jam or spoof radar and communication systems, disrupting enemy command networks.
Initiatives to Augment India’s Drone Ecosystem
1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
Encourages domestic manufacturing of drones and drone components.
2. Import Restrictions
Ban on drone imports in:
CBU (Completely Built-Up)
SKD (Semi-Knocked Down)
CKD (Completely Knocked Down) forms
3. Tax Rationalisation
GST reduced to a uniform 5% (September 2025) to promote industry growth.
4. Promotion Platforms
Bharat Drone Shakti
Bharat Drone Mahotsav
Drone International Expo
These platforms promote Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) models and startup participation.
5. SwaYaan Programme
Focused on human resource development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
Different Types of Drones in India
1. Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR Drones)
Used for intelligence gathering and battlefield awareness.
TAPAS-BH-201
Rustom (Developed by DRDO)
IAI Heron
2. Armed / Combat Drones (UCAVs)
Capable of launching missiles or precision strikes.
DRDO Ghatak (Under development)
IAI Heron TP
3. Loitering Munitions
Hover over a target area and strike upon identification.
Nagastra
Warmate
4. Swarm Drones
Multiple drones operating in coordinated formations to overwhelm defences.DRDO and private firms are developing indigenous swarm technologies.
Indian Navy is participating in ‘Sea Dragon 2026’ near Guam Island (US territory) in North Pacific Ocean.
About Exercise Sea Dragon
Annual U.S. Navy-led multinational anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise.
Brings together forces from Australia, Japan and New Zealand, towards enhancing coordination and combat readiness in undersea warfare.
The Indian Navy organised the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative, reinforcing maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
About IOS SAGAR
Aim
IOS SAGAR enables naval personnel from friendly foreign countries to:
Train together onboard an Indian Naval ship
Undertake joint sailing and operational drills
Enhance interoperability and coordination
It promotes practical cooperation through shared operational exposure.
Participation
Involves 16 member countries of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.
Encourages professional exchange among regional navies.
Strategic Alignment
IOS SAGAR aligns with India’s maritime doctrine of:
SAGAR
Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) — India’s vision for cooperative maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
MAHASAGAR Framework
Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR) — Expands regional collaboration beyond traditional security into broader strategic engagement.
Significance
Strengthens maritime domain awareness
Enhances trust and confidence among IOR navies
Promotes collective response to piracy, trafficking, and maritime disasters
Reinforces India’s role as a net security provider in the region
IOS SAGAR reflects India’s emphasis on cooperative security and rules-based maritime order in the Indian Ocean.
NATO is deploying U.S. Patriot missile defence system to the southern province of Adana in Turkey.
About Patriot Missile Defence System
PATRIOT is an acronym for Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target,
It is a ground-based, mobile missile defense interceptor developed in the United States.
It detects, tracks, and engages Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) cruise missiles, and short-range or tactical ballistic missiles.
The Government has blocked 300 illegal online gambling and betting platforms to curb unlawful digital gaming activities.
Online gambling includes placing bets via internet platforms on games of chance or skill such as sports betting, poker, and casino games.
The move aims to address large-scale financial losses reportedly affecting nearly 45 crore users, with losses exceeding ₹20,000 crore (August 2025).
Key Reasons for Curbing Illegal Online Gambling
1. Economic Implications
Illegal Parallel Economy
Revenues generated remain outside taxation frameworks.
Weakens formal financial systems.
Money Laundering Risks
Platforms may be used to channel illicit earnings through legitimate financial channels.
Conceals origin of funds.
2. Social Implications
Rising Addiction
Leads to pathological gambling disorder.
Causes mental health issues and financial distress.
Associated with repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) and emotional instability.
Pathological gambling is a clinical condition marked by persistent inability to resist gambling behaviour despite harmful consequences.
Harmful Digital Ecosystem
Predatory gaming practices promise unrealistic financial returns.
Targets vulnerable users, especially youth.
3. Ethical Implications
Encouragement of Immoral Behaviour
Promotes greed and risk-seeking behaviour.
Undermines values of productive economic engagement.
Conflict with Kantian Ethics
Gambling may treat individuals as mere instruments for profit.
Violates principle of treating persons as ends in themselves.
Key Legal and Regulatory Measures
1. IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021
Amended in 2023 to regulate online gaming platforms.
Imposes due diligence and compliance obligations.
2. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Section 112 prescribes punishment for unauthorised betting and gambling.
3. Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025
Prohibits online money games and online money gaming services.
Significance
Protects users from financial exploitation.
Strengthens cyber governance and digital ethics.
Reduces risks of money laundering and tax evasion.
Promotes a safer and regulated digital ecosystem.
The blocking of illegal platforms reflects a stricter enforcement approach to online financial misconduct and digital consumer protection.
Returning from space is a complex technical challenge that requires precise calculations of speed and re-entry angle (the angle at which a spacecraft enters Earth’s atmosphere, crucial for safe descent).
The process begins with Re-entry into Earth's Atmosphere through De-orbit Burn (a maneuver where engines are fired in reverse to reduce speed), which allows Earth’s gravity to pull the spacecraft downward, while the capsule uses a heat shield (a protective layer designed to absorb and withstand extreme temperatures).
As the spacecraft descends further, Parachutes are deployed, acting as a natural braking system to slow it down and enable a gentle descent, after which the capsule lands either on land or in the ocean (splashdown—controlled water landing).
Major Challenges during Atmospheric Re-entry
A key challenge is hitting the exact re-entry angle, because if the angle is too steep, excessive friction can cause the spacecraft to burn up completely, risking crew survival.
The spacecraft must also withstand immense heat, generated due to air friction (interaction between high-speed spacecraft and atmospheric particles), where temperatures exceed 1600°C (enough to melt steel) and can rise up to 4000°C.
Another challenge is slowing down from extreme speeds, as spacecraft travel at 17,500 mph to 25,000 mph (supersonic/hypersonic speeds—much faster than sound) before re-entry.
Additionally, a communication blackout occurs, because extreme heat ionises air (converts it into charged particles) forming a plasma sheath (ionised gas layer around the capsule) that blocks radio signals like a metallic barrier, temporarily cutting communication.
ISRO’s Re-entry Capabilities
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) first demonstrated this capability through the Space Capsule Recovery Experiment (SRE) in 2007 (mission to test safe recovery of an orbiting spacecraft), which was further advanced by the Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE) in 2014 (focused on crew safety during re-entry).
Building on this, ISRO is developing a Winged Orbital Re-entry Vehicle (ORV) (a reusable spacecraft with aircraft-like wings), which will autonomously re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and land on a runway like an aircraft, enhancing reusability and efficiency.
As per reports, the Union government has initiated airwave spectrum allocation for ‘vehicle-to-everything’ or V2X technology.
About V2X Technology
It enables vehicles to communicate with each other (V2V), with other road users such as pedestrians and cyclists (V2P), and with roadside infrastructure (V2I).
Benefits: Enhanced Road Safety (e.g., helps vehicles see vulnerable road users), Improved Traffic Efficiency, etc.
Scientists studying small molecular clouds near the Milky Way disc (the flat, dense region of our galaxy containing most stars) have recently identified the “skeleton” of the magnetic field (the underlying structure or pattern of magnetic field lines) surrounding them, helping to better understand its role in star formation (the process by which dense regions of gas collapse to form stars).
A molecular cloud is an interstellar cloud of gas and dust (matter present in the space between stars) in which molecules can form, with hydrogen (H₂) (a molecule made of two hydrogen atoms and the most abundant molecule in the universe) being the most common.
It is widely believed that our Sun formed in a similar molecular cloud, where the collapse of the cloud (gravitational contraction of gas and dust) was triggered by a nearby supernova (a powerful explosion marking the death of a massive star).
These clouds have distinct key features, as they are opaque (do not allow light to pass through) due to the presence of internal dust grains (tiny solid particles mixed with gas), and their shapes are highly irregular, meaning they lack clearly defined outer boundaries.
The Maharashtra Assembly has passed the Wildlife Protection (Maharashtra Amendment) Bill, 2026 (a state-level legislative proposal) aimed at improving the management of human-wildlife conflict (situations where interactions between humans and wild animals lead to harm or disruption).
Under this proposed amendment, the state government will be empowered to capture and relocate leopards (move them from one area to another safer habitat), thereby addressing rising conflict situations.
However, the bill will come into effect only after receiving the President’s assent (formal approval required when a state law modifies a central law), since it proposes changes to the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (a central legislation for wildlife conservation in India).
The amendment specifically relates to Section 12 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides legal provisions regarding controlled intervention with wildlife.
About Section 12 of WPA, 1972
Section 12 empowers the Chief Wildlife Warden (the highest wildlife authority at the state level responsible for implementation of the Act) to grant permits for hunting of wild animals under specific conditions.
Such permissions are allowed only for limited purposes like scientific research and scientific management (planned intervention to maintain ecological balance).
Under scientific management, the law permits the capture and relocation of wild animals to suitable alternative habitats, but this can be done only with prior permission from the central government, ensuring regulated and controlled action.
The Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme (a government initiative to promote small-scale hydropower) has been approved, aiming to attract ₹15,000 crore investment and generate 51 lakh person-days of employment (total labour days created), particularly benefiting North Eastern (NE) and hilly states (regions with high hydropower potential due to terrain and water flow).
Benefits of Small Hydropower Projects
SHP projects help avoid large-scale land acquisition, deforestation, and community displacement (major issues associated with large dams), making them environmentally and socially sustainable.
They also generate long-term employment, as the project lifespan ranges from 40 to over 60 years, ensuring sustained economic benefits.
Additionally, they provide electricity to rural areas, improving livelihood security of marginalised communities (ensuring stable income and living conditions).
Key Features of the Scheme
The scheme will operate from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31 (financial years), with a total outlay of ₹2584.60 crore to support projects with an approximate capacity of 1500 MW (megawatt—unit of power generation).
Under financial assistance, special incentives are provided:
For NE & Border Areas, support is ₹3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost (whichever is lower), with a maximum limit of ₹30 crore per project.
For other states, support is ₹2.4 crore per MW or 20% of project cost (whichever is lower), capped at ₹20 crore per project.
The scheme also promotes preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) (comprehensive technical and financial feasibility documents) by allocating ₹30 crore to support around 200 DPRs for both state and central government agencies.
About Small Hydro Power (SHP) Projects
In India, Small Hydro Power (SHP) projects are defined as hydropower plants with capacity up to 25 MW, distinguishing them from large hydro projects.
These projects can be developed on hill slopes using small streams (run-of-river projects—systems that use natural water flow without large storage) or at canal falls and dam toes (locations where water naturally drops, enabling power generation).
The development of SHP is overseen by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) (the nodal agency for renewable energy in India).
India has an estimated SHP potential of 21,133 MW across 7,133 sites (as assessed by IIT Roorkee), indicating significant untapped renewable energy capacity.
Hilly states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand account for around half of this total potential, due to favorable geographical conditions.
SHP projects are further classified based on capacity as:
Micro (up to 100 kW—kilowatt, a smaller unit of power),
Mini (101 kW to 2 MW), and
Small Hydro (2 MW to 25 MW).
The Supreme Court (SC) declined to interfere with the Bombay High Court (HC) order on mangrove trees, with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) emphasizing that while environment protection norms must be strictly enforced, there is also a need to maintain a delicate balance with development (harmonising ecological conservation with economic growth).
About Mangroves
Mangroves are salt-tolerant plant communities (halophytic vegetation capable of surviving in saline conditions) that grow in tropical and subtropical intertidal zones (coastal areas alternately submerged and exposed due to tides where land meets the sea).
These ecosystems are classified into four main types—Red, Black, White, and Buttonwood mangroves, based on their structural and ecological characteristics.
In India, mangrove forests cover 4,991.68 sq. km across nine states and four Union Territories, indicating their significant ecological presence.
Among these, West Bengal accounts for the largest share (42.45%), followed by Gujarat and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, due to favourable coastal and deltaic conditions.
Threats to Mangroves
Mangroves face serious threats from unchecked destruction for infrastructure and development (conversion of coastal land for urbanisation and industrial use).
Additionally, climate change and rising CO₂ levels are causing “hypercapnic hypoxia” (a condition where excess carbon dioxide leads to reduced oxygen levels in water), which severely disrupts mangrove ecosystems, particularly their role as fish nurseries (breeding and growth habitats for marine species).
Way Forward
Protecting mangroves requires maintaining a balance between sustainable development and conservation, ensuring ecological security without halting growth.
This can be achieved through strict enforcement of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) laws (legal framework regulating activities in coastal areas) and mandatory compensatory afforestation (planting trees to offset ecological damage).
Furthermore, promoting community-driven restoration initiatives like MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) is essential for sustainable conservation and livelihood generation.
The report titled “Changing dynamics of glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region from 1990 to 2020”, released by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) (an intergovernmental organisation focused on mountain ecosystems), highlights significant changes in glacier behaviour over time.
About ICIMOD
ICIMOD is an intergovernmental knowledge and learning centre (an organisation that facilitates research, data sharing, and policy support) that leads global efforts to protect the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region (a vast mountain system spanning multiple Asian countries and crucial for water security).
India is one of its regional member countries, participating in collaborative efforts for sustainable mountain development.
Key Findings of the Report
The report notes that glacier number loss has doubled, increasing from –5.4% (1990–2020) to –10% (recent decade trend, likely indicating accelerated loss), reflecting a rapid decline in glacier count.
There is also a consistent retreat of glaciers, with a 12% reduction in total glacier area (surface coverage of glaciers) and a 9% decline in estimated ice reserves (stored frozen freshwater).
At the basin level, the Indus River basin (a major river system originating in the Himalayas) has lost 6% of its glacier area, while the Ganges basin and the Brahmaputra basin have experienced sharper reductions of 21% and 16% respectively, indicating regional variability in glacier loss.
The Ministry of Heavy Industries has invited bids to establish integrated manufacturing facilities (end-to-end production units covering all stages of manufacturing) under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM), aiming to strengthen domestic capabilities in critical technologies.
About the Scheme
The scheme aims to create 6,000 Metric Tons per Annum (MTPA) (annual production capacity) of integrated REPM manufacturing, involving a complete value chain from rare earth oxides → metals → alloys → finished REPMs (stepwise transformation of raw materials into final magnets).
Under beneficiary allocation, 5 beneficiaries will be selected through a global competitive bidding process (international tendering to ensure efficiency and competitiveness), with each allocated up to 1,200 MTPA capacity.
The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹7,280 crore, comprising ₹750 crore as capital subsidy (financial support for setting up infrastructure) and ₹6,450 crore as sales-linked incentive (incentives based on production and sales performance).
About Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM)
REPMs (Rare Earth Permanent Magnets) are among the strongest types of permanent magnets (materials that retain magnetism without external power), made from alloys of rare earth elements (special group of elements with unique magnetic properties).
A key example is Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) (a widely used high-strength magnet alloy).
These magnets have critical applications in electric vehicles (EVs) (for motors), renewable energy systems (like wind turbines), electronics, as well as aerospace and defence sectors, making them strategically important.
The Government has approved RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) to support exporters affected by freight escalation, rising insurance costs, and war-related trade disruptions in the Gulf and West Asia maritime corridor.
About RELIEF
Aim
Mitigate the immediate impact of logistics disruptions
Protect exporter confidence
Prevent cancellation of export orders
Safeguard employment in export-linked sectors
The scheme specifically addresses disruptions in the West Asia region.
Nodal & Implementing Agency
The scheme is implemented by ECGC Ltd., formerly known as Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Ltd.
Established in 1957
Wholly owned by the Government of India
Operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Provides credit risk insurance to exporters
Components of RELIEF
The scheme applies to consignments destined for West Asia countries including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Israel, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen (for delivery or transshipment).
1. Enhanced Risk Coverage
Up to 100% risk coverage for exporters already covered under ECGC credit insurance.
2. Encouragement for Upcoming Consignments
Government-supported ECGC cover providing up to 95% risk coverage for planned consignments during the next three months.
3. Support for MSMEs
Partial reimbursement (up to 50%) for eligible non-ECGC-insured MSME exporters.
About Export Promotion Mission (EPM)
Vision
Provides a comprehensive, flexible, and digitally driven export promotion framework.
Financial Outlay
₹25,060 crore
Timeline
Six years (FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31)
Sub-Schemes
1. Niryat Protsahan (Financial Support)
Improves access to affordable trade finance
Supports diversification into new markets
2. Niryat Disha (Non-Financial Support)
Enhances market readiness
Improves exporter competitiveness
Implementing Agency
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade administers the Export Promotion Mission.
Significance
Shields exporters from geopolitical trade shocks
Supports MSMEs during maritime corridor disruptions
Enhances resilience of India’s export ecosystem
Reinforces supply chain stability in strategic trade regions
RELIEF reflects a targeted intervention to stabilise exports amid global trade volatility and conflict-induced logistical disruptions.
The Government of India has launched the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions-2.0 (CGSMFI-2.0) with a corpus of ₹20,000 crore (total fund allocated), aiming to strengthen the microfinance ecosystem.
About CGSMFI-2.0
The scheme’s objective is to provide guarantee coverage (assurance against default risk) to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) (eligible financial institutions under the scheme) for financing NBFC-MFIs and MFIs (microfinance-focused lenders), which then on-lend to existing or new small borrowers.
NBFC-MFI (Non-Banking Financial Company–Microfinance Institution) refers to a non-deposit-taking NBFC (financial institution that cannot accept public deposits) with at least 75% of its total assets deployed in microfinance loans (collateral-free loans given to households with annual income up to ₹3,00,000).
The scheme is managed and operated by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) (a government-owned entity providing credit guarantees), which functions under the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance.
The scheme will remain in force until June 2026 or until guarantees worth ₹20,000 crore are issued, whichever occurs earlier.
About Microfinance
Microfinance refers to the provision of small-scale financial services such as loans, savings, and insurance to individuals and small businesses lacking access to traditional banking systems.
Significance of Microfinance in India
It promotes financial inclusion and poverty alleviation, by bridging the gap left by traditional banks and integrating low-income groups into the formal financial system.
It supports MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and entrepreneurship, by offering tailored loans without mandatory collateral, enabling small businesses to grow.
It plays a key role in women empowerment, as women constitute about 95% of borrowers in the microfinance sector (as per Economic Survey 2025–26), enhancing their financial independence.
Challenges in the Microfinance Sector
The sector faces issues such as overlending and borrower over-indebtedness (excessive borrowing leading to repayment stress), along with a rise in NPAs (Non-Performing Assets—loans that are not being repaid).
There are also higher interest rates compared to banks, making borrowing costlier for vulnerable groups.
Another challenge is the limited availability of reliable and standardised methods to assess household income, leading to credit risk misjudgment.
Additionally, high operational costs (due to small-ticket loans and field operations) and lack of awareness about microfinance services further constrain sectoral efficiency.
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