Daily Current Affairs - 22nd & 23rd April 2026
- Kaushal
- 13 hours ago
- 22 min read
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | ASEAN Partnership Model & Regional Integration, India–South Korea Special Strategic Vision 2026–30, India’s Record Foodgrain Stocks & Buffer Norms, NSS Health Survey 2025 Findings, Herfindahl–Hirschman Index & Export Diversification, Genome India Project Variants Study, Outer Space Governance & Artemis Debate, Circular Economy Push & Carbon Sink Targets, Methane & Ammonia Advisory, Marine Spatial Planning in Odisha, Salween River Arsenic Concern, Tadoba-Andhari Model, Jamun Evolution Study and more.
Table of Content
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
SECURITY / DEFENCE
SCHEMES
Relevance of ASEAN’s Partnership Model for Global Cooperation
In a context of increasing global volatility (instability in political and economic systems), the importance of regional cooperation and integration has grown significantly, with Association of Southeast Asian Nations emerging as a key model for collaborative governance.
ASEAN’s Key Achievements Reinforcing Regional Cooperation
ASEAN has demonstrated a strong commitment to core principles, functioning as a cohesive and viable economic and political bloc for nearly 60 years, despite diversity in culture, political systems, and socio-economic conditions.
It has fostered mutual support and trust, as seen in the accession of Timor-Leste in 2025, where members like Indonesia set aside past differences for collective growth and cooperation.
ASEAN has also promoted wider integration, illustrated by initiatives like the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) (a regional agreement to boost digital economy collaboration), reflecting “coalitions of smaller economies” working together for digital transformation.
Major Models of Regional Integration
One model is Flexible, Market-Driven Integration, which emerges organically from private-sector activity, as seen in initiatives like the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM—regional financial safety arrangement), and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP—large Asia-Pacific trade agreement).
Another model is Vision-driven, Politically Anchored Integration, which relies on strong political commitment and long-term economic vision, exemplified by the European Union Single Market, African Continental Free Trade Area, and the Eurasian Economic Union in Central Asia.
Other Key Benefits of Regional Integration
Regional integration enhances financial stability, as seen in the CMIM, which was established after the Asian Financial Crisis to provide a financial safety net for ASEAN+3 economies (including China, Japan, and Republic of Korea).
It helps expand markets and input sources, enabling efficient resource allocation and faster economic growth across member countries.
Integration also contributes to reducing inequality between countries, as freer trade and mobility of factors (labour and capital) allow less-developed members to grow faster.
Additionally, it promotes political stability and collective bargaining power, strengthening diplomatic ties and enhancing the global influence of member states in trade negotiations.
India–South Korea Relations and Strategic Partnership
The visit of the President of South Korea to India marked a milestone in the India–ROK Special Strategic Partnership (elevated bilateral relationship framework), resulting in a Joint Strategic Vision (2026–2030) along with multiple cooperation agreements.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
The two countries agreed on strengthening the institutional framework by establishing annual leader-level meetings (regular high-level summits) to provide continuous strategic guidance.
In the Indo-Pacific region, South Korea joined the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) (India-led voluntary maritime cooperation framework), aligning its strategy with India’s regional vision.
In terms of economic cooperation, both sides set a target to double bilateral trade to $54 billion by 2030, enhancing economic engagement.
To support this, an Economic Security Dialogue (platform for cooperation on supply chains and strategic sectors) was launched to strengthen supply chain resilience and technological collaboration.
On climate cooperation, South Korea joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA), while India joined the Global Green Growth Institute, a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation headquartered in Seoul, established at the RIO+20 Conference (2012) to promote sustainable growth.
To enhance people-to-people ties, the years 2028–29 have been designated as the Year of India–ROK Friendship, along with plans to establish a Mumbai Korea Centre to promote cultural exchange, including K-pop–Bollywood collaboration.
In the maritime sector, both countries agreed on a Comprehensive Partnership in Shipbuilding, Shipping, and Maritime Logistics, guided by the Vision for Operation of Yard Assisted Growth with Efficiency and Scale (VOYAGES) (a framework for industrial cooperation in shipbuilding).
In technology cooperation, the India–Korea Digital Bridge was launched to enhance collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and IT sectors.
About India–South Korea Relations
The India–ROK Special Strategic Partnership was formally established in 2015, marking deepening ties across sectors.
Current bilateral trade stands at around $27 billion, with India facing a trade deficit of $15.19 billion, indicating an imbalance in trade flows.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), 2010 governs trade relations, and India is seeking its upgrade to address trade imbalance and ensure a more equitable partnership.
In the defence sector, cooperation is guided by the 2020 Roadmap to Defence Industry Cooperation, including projects like K9-Vajra howitzers (artillery systems manufactured in India through technology transfer from South Korea).
Additionally, initiatives like KIND-X (Korea-India Defence Accelerator) aim to connect startups, innovators, and investors in the defence ecosystem of both countries.
India’s Foodgrain Stock and Agricultural Strength
The Government has stated that India’s foodgrain stock is nearly three times the existing buffer norms, with 222 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of wheat and 380 LMT of rice, taking the total stock to around 602 LMT, indicating strong food security reserves.
India’s Foodgrain Production and Agricultural Performance
India’s agricultural exports increased from USD 34.5 billion (FY20) to USD 51.1 billion (FY25), with the share of processed food rising to 20.4%, reflecting a shift towards value-added agriculture (processing raw produce for higher economic value).
Horticulture production reached 362.08 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain output, signalling a structural shift towards high-value crops (fruits, vegetables, etc.).
Globally, India is among the leading agricultural producers, being the largest producer of pulses (25.68 MT) and millets, and the second-largest producer of rice, wheat, and fruits and vegetables.
India also holds a strong position in high-value crops, ranking first in spices and coconut production, and second in sugarcane, cotton, and tea production.
About Buffer Stock
Buffer stock refers to the quantity of foodgrains procured, stored, and maintained by the government to ensure food security, price stability, and supply through welfare schemes.
These buffer norms are determined by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on a quarterly basis, guiding minimum stock requirements.
Purpose of Buffer Stock
It ensures food security by maintaining availability during droughts, floods, or crop failures.
It helps in price stabilisation, preventing sharp fluctuations in food prices.
It supports the Public Distribution System (PDS—scheme for providing subsidised foodgrains to the poor).
It acts as an emergency reserve, providing a cushion during crises or supply disruptions.
Government Initiatives Supporting Agricultural Production
A mission-based approach is adopted through schemes like National Food Security and Nutrition Mission, Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, and National Mission on Edible Oils, focusing on increasing production and reducing import dependence.
Input and productivity support is provided through initiatives such as Sub-Mission on Seeds and Planting Material, Soil Health Cards (providing soil nutrient information), and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY—irrigation scheme) to enhance yield and efficiency.
Credit and mechanisation support through Kisan Credit Cards (easy farm credit) and Custom Hiring Centres (shared access to farm machinery) improves productivity and reduces costs.
Promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, including natural farming and efficient resource use, ensures long-term agricultural resilience.
Farmer support and risk management measures like Minimum Support Price (MSP), PM-KISAN (income support scheme), and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) provide income stability and protection against risks.
Overall, strong policy initiatives combined with robust production and buffer stocks reinforce India’s food security and agricultural strength, supporting the vision of “Stronger Agriculture, Stronger India.”
Household Social Consumption: Health Survey
The ‘Household Social Consumption: Health’ Survey was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, conducted during January–December 2025 under the 80th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) (a large-scale nationwide survey for socio-economic data).
Key Findings of the Survey
The survey found that 13.1% of persons reported suffering from ailments (including chronic diseases) during the last 15 days in 2025, a significant increase from 7.5% in the 2017–18 survey, indicating a rising health burden.
The hospitalisation rate was highest among the elderly (60 years and above) at 8.1%, reflecting increased healthcare needs with ageing.
There has been a decline in infectious diseases (communicable diseases spread through pathogens), while non-communicable diseases (NCDs—chronic conditions not spread person-to-person) such as hypertension and diabetes (major contributors), along with thyroid disorders, have increased.
Among adults aged 30 years and above, cardiovascular diseases (heart-related conditions) and endocrine/metabolic disorders (hormonal and metabolic imbalances) are the most frequently reported health issues.
The survey highlights nearly universal institutional deliveries (about 96% of childbirth occurring in healthcare facilities), indicating improved maternal healthcare access.
It also shows an expansion in health insurance coverage, with higher coverage in rural areas than urban areas, and the majority of enrolments coming from government-sponsored schemes (publicly funded insurance programmes).
Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) and Trade Diversification
According to the NITI Aayog Trade Watch Quarterly report, India’s Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) for exports is declining, indicating greater diversification (spread across multiple products and markets) and reduced dependence on limited trade partners.
This decline reflects a fall in export concentration across both products and regions, thereby enhancing trade resilience (ability to withstand external shocks).
Other Key Highlights
In the gems and jewellery sector, India’s exports (excluding raw gold) account for about 7.8% of the global market, highlighting its strong international presence.
However, instability in West Asia has slowed progress in the India–Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement (FTA), affecting regional trade cooperation.
About Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI)
The Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) is a measure of trade concentration or dispersion, indicating how export value is distributed across different trade partners.
It is calculated as the sum of the squares of the share of each trade partner in total trade, meaning higher weight is given to larger partners.
A higher HHI value indicates greater concentration (dependence on fewer partners), while a lower HHI value indicates higher diversification, which is generally more desirable.
High trade concentration can reduce economic resilience, as it increases exposure to region-specific or product-specific shocks, whereas diversification helps mitigate such risks.
Non-Deliverable Forwards (NDF)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has partially reversed earlier curbs on rupee derivative transactions, allowing authorised dealers (banks permitted to deal in foreign exchange) to offer Non-Deliverable Forwards (NDF) again, thereby influencing currency market dynamics.
About Non-Deliverable Forwards (NDF)
A Non-Deliverable Forward (NDF) is a foreign exchange derivative (financial contract based on currency value) that is cash-settled (settled in money rather than actual asset exchange) and traded over-the-counter (OTC—directly between parties, not on an exchange).
Unlike traditional forward contracts, NDFs do not involve physical exchange of currencies at maturity, making them suitable for currencies with restrictions.
NDFs are typically traded offshore (outside the domestic jurisdiction), especially in global financial centres such as Singapore, Dubai, London, and New York City.
They are mainly used to hedge (reduce currency risk) or speculate (profit from exchange rate movements) in currencies of emerging markets that have capital controls (restrictions on cross-border capital flows) or limited liquidity.
Common currencies traded in NDF markets include the Indian rupee (INR), Chinese yuan (CNY), and Brazilian real (BRL).
At maturity, NDF contracts are settled in cash based on the difference between the agreed contract rate and the prevailing spot rate (current market exchange rate), without any physical currency delivery.
E-Mandate Framework, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the ‘Digital Payments – E-mandate Framework, 2026’ under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007 (law governing digital payment systems in India), to regulate automated recurring digital payments.
An E-Mandate is a digital standing instruction (pre-authorised permission) that enables automatic debit of funds from a bank account for recurring payments such as subscriptions, bills, or EMIs, ensuring seamless transactions.
Key Features of the Framework
The framework requires a one-time registration process, which must be validated through an Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA—extra security layer such as OTP or biometric verification) to ensure secure authorisation.
Each e-mandate must clearly specify a validity period (duration for which the mandate remains active), and customers retain the flexibility to modify or withdraw the mandate at any time, enhancing user control.
For convenience, recurring transactions up to ₹15,000 per transaction can be executed without AFA, simplifying low-value payments while maintaining overall security.
Palm Oil
India’s palm oil import demand is expected to rise due to a global supply crunch (shortage in international production), and India continues to be the largest importer of palm oil in the world, reflecting high domestic demand.
About Palm Oil
Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the African oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis), widely used due to its high yield and versatility.
There are two main types of palm oil: Crude Palm Oil (extracted from the fruit pulp), which is primarily used for cooking, and Palm Kernel Oil (extracted from the seed), which is used for non-edible purposes such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Cultivation and Global Production
Oil palm trees are native to Africa, but large-scale cultivation is now concentrated in Southeast Asia.
Currently, Indonesia and Malaysia together account for over 85% of global palm oil supply, making them dominant producers.
In India, major oil palm cultivation is concentrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, which together contribute about 98% of total domestic production.
To boost domestic production and reduce import dependence, the government has launched initiatives like the National Mission for Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) (scheme promoting oil palm cultivation and self-reliance).
Global Electricity Review 2026
The Ember Global Electricity Review 2026 provides a comprehensive overview of global and country-level electricity generation in 2025, highlighting that clean energy is increasingly meeting the growth in electricity demand.
Key Findings
Solar energy emerged as the primary driver of demand growth, meeting around 75% of global electricity demand growth in 2025, indicating its central role in the clean energy transition.
The share of renewables reached a record 33.8%, surpassing coal (33.0%) for the first time in over a century, marking a historic shift in global energy composition.
Fossil fuel-based power generation recorded a marginal decline of -0.2%, signalling stagnation and a possible long-term decline in fossil energy use.
China dominated clean energy expansion, contributing to over half of global solar capacity additions, with its solar and wind share reaching 22%.
India-Specific Findings
In India, fossil-based power generation declined by 3.3%, indicating a structural shift away from traditional energy sources.
At the same time, renewable energy generation grew by 24%, with solar energy surpassing hydropower to become the largest clean energy source in the country.
India achieved a record solar capacity addition of 38 GW, surpassing the United States for the first time, demonstrating rapid expansion.
Along with China, India played a key role in halting global fossil fuel generation growth, contributing significantly to global decarbonisation efforts.
Reasons Behind Increased Clean Energy Growth
The rise in clean energy is driven by cost-competitive technologies, particularly solar and wind, with solar panel prices declining by about 90% between 2015 and 2025, making them widely accessible.
There has been a surge in solar generation, with output increasing by 636 TWh (30%) in 2025, continuing its decade-long exponential growth trend.
The battery storage revolution has further accelerated this shift, with global battery deployment increasing by 46% and prices falling by 45%, enabling round-the-clock renewable energy supply.
Disabled-friendly Prison Reforms
The Supreme Court of India has directed a high-powered committee chaired by S. Ravindra Bhat to expand its mandate beyond streamlining open correctional institutions (prisons with relaxed restrictions and focus on rehabilitation).
The committee is now tasked with formulating a comprehensive plan to make prisons across India disabled-friendly (accessible for persons with disabilities), while ensuring that security requirements are not compromised.
The Court emphasised a humane, rights-based approach, ensuring that Article 14 (right to equality before law) and Article 21 (right to life and dignity) are upheld even during incarceration, reinforcing constitutional protections for prisoners.
Supreme Court’s Directions for Reform
The committee has been directed to create a blueprint for mobility improvements, including ramps, accessible toilets, and tactile flooring (surface indicators to assist visually impaired individuals) within prison infrastructure.
It must also ensure provision of assistive technologies, such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and Braille materials (reading system for visually impaired persons), to improve accessibility.
Further, the plan should include enhanced medical care, with specialised psychiatric services and physical therapy facilities integrated into the prison system to address both mental and physical health needs.
Industrial Accidents in India
A recent explosion at a fireworks unit in Tamil Nadu causing multiple fatalities highlights the growing risks associated with large-scale chemical and industrial operations in India.
Such incidents reflect a broader pattern of industrial accidents, as seen in major disasters like the Bhopal Gas Tragedy (methyl isocyanate gas leak), the 1985 Oleum gas leak in Delhi, the 2017 NTPC Unchahar boiler explosion in Uttar Pradesh, and the 2020 Vizag gas leak, indicating systemic vulnerabilities.
Key Causes of Industrial Accidents
Systemic and regulatory failures are a major cause, as despite the existence of safety laws, weak implementation and dilution of environmental norms (relaxation of regulations for ease of doing business) reduce effectiveness.
Operational and technical issues such as human error, engineering design flaws, poor maintenance, and violation of safety protocols often lead to accidents, as seen in the NTPC Unchahar incident (2017).
Hazardous material handling risks arise in industries dealing with toxic substances like chlorine and ammonia, which operate under narrow safety margins, increasing accident probability.
Environmental factors like earthquakes can also trigger accidents by damaging facilities, as during the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, which caused chemical spills.
Economic and managerial factors, including cost-cutting on safety measures and inadequate investment in modern safety systems, further exacerbate risks.
Key Consequences of Industrial Accidents
Human and social impacts include immediate loss of life, along with long-term psychological trauma and social disruption in affected communities.
Environmental damage occurs through contamination of natural resources, leading to fish kills and biodiversity loss, especially in aquatic ecosystems.
Economic consequences include immediate financial losses and long-term costs, such as healthcare burdens and decline in investor confidence.
Key Mitigation Measures
Legislative measures include laws such as the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (enacted after Bhopal), Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 (compensation for accident victims), and the Disaster Management Act, 2005 (framework for disaster response).
Institutional mechanisms involve bodies like the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) along with state and district-level authorities for coordinated disaster management.
Emergency response systems include specialised HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials) units and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) trained in CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) emergencies.
Technological interventions such as Process Safety Management (PSM) systems (advanced safety protocols for industrial operations) help reduce risks.
Community and healthcare preparedness is also critical, involving local participation, awareness programmes, and crisis management groups for timely response and information dissemination.
TRAWL Assembly for T-72/T-90 Tanks
The Ministry of Defence has signed procurement contracts with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) and Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics India Private Limited for the supply of TRAWL Assemblies, enhancing the mine-clearing capabilities of armoured forces.
About TRAWL Assembly
A TRAWL Assembly is a mine-clearing device mounted on battle tanks, designed to detect, neutralise, and clear landmines, enabling safe movement of troops and vehicles through minefields (areas planted with explosive devices).
About T-72 and T-90 Tanks
The T-72 (Ajeya) is an ex-USSR main battle tank (MBT—primary armoured combat vehicle) that entered service in 1973, with around 25,000 units produced globally, and is widely used in India.
The T-72 is equipped with an NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) protection system (shielding crew from hazardous environments) and is capable of deep wading (crossing water bodies, including submerged river crossings), enhancing operational flexibility.
The T-90 is a modernised Russian main battle tank, developed as an advanced evolution of the T-72, and entered service in 1992 with improved firepower and protection systems.
India is the largest operator of the T-90 tank, deploying the “Bhishma” variant (Indian-modified version), which forms a key component of its armoured capabilities.
NASA’s Curiosity Rover
The NASA Curiosity rover has detected organic molecules (carbon-based compounds associated with life processes) never previously observed on Mars, including chemicals that are precursors (building blocks) to DNA and RNA.
These findings are significant because such molecules are essential for life, strengthening the possibility that Mars may have once supported biological processes.
About Curiosity Rover
The Curiosity rover is part of NASA’s Mars Science Laboratory mission, which was launched in 2011 to explore the Martian surface.
Its primary objective is to determine whether Mars has ever had environmental conditions suitable for supporting microbial life (microscopic living organisms).
The rover is currently exploring the Gale Crater, where it conducts in-situ analysis (on-site scientific examination) of rock, soil, and atmospheric samples using onboard instruments.
Need for Multilateralism in Outer Space Governance
The renewed momentum in space exploration, highlighted by missions like Artemis II, has reignited debates on outer space governance, especially in the context of a new “space race” (competition among nations for space dominance).
Challenges in Outer Space Governance and Need for Multilateralism
A major challenge is the limitation of existing frameworks, particularly the Outer Space Treaty (OST), which lacks detailed regulations for private sector activities (even though states remain responsible for them) and has weak enforcement mechanisms.
The issue of space resource exploitation is emerging, as agreements like the Artemis Accords propose “safety zones” (areas to avoid interference), which may effectively act as exclusion zones, allowing early entrants to control lunar resources.
There is also a growing threat of militarisation, since dual-use technologies (civilian technologies that can also have military applications) increase strategic mistrust among nations.
Additionally, geopolitical fragmentation is intensifying, as space activities shift from exploration to sustained presence, requiring a rules-based order to prevent conflict and de facto sovereignty claims.
This fragmentation is evident in competing initiatives such as the US-led Artemis programme and the China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), reflecting emerging blocs in space governance.
Present System of Outer Space Governance
The current governance framework is anchored in the Outer Space Treaty (1967) under the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, which establishes that outer space is free for all nations, cannot be claimed by any country, and prohibits placement of nuclear weapons in orbit, with India being a signatory.
Institutional coordination is provided by the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (established in 1959) by the UN General Assembly to promote peaceful use and international cooperation in space, having 110 member countries including India (a founding member).
Complementing this is the Artemis Accords (2020), a U.S.-led multilateral framework that promotes peaceful, transparent, and interoperable space exploration, with 62 members including India, and emphasises principles like transparency, interoperability (systems working together), and scientific data sharing.
Given emerging challenges such as resource competition, militarisation, and fragmented governance, there is a clear need for stronger multilateral cooperation (collective decision-making among nations) to ensure that outer space remains a global commons (shared resource for all humanity).
Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize Foundation has announced the 2026 Breakthrough Prize laureates, recognising major advancements in fundamental scientific research.
About Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize is widely known as the “Oscars of Science”, as it honours leading scientists working in fundamental sciences (basic scientific research that expands knowledge).
Each prize carries a monetary award of $3 million, and is presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics, and Mathematics.
In addition, awards such as the New Horizons in Physics Prize, New Horizons in Mathematics Prize, and the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize are given to early-career researchers, encouraging emerging talent.
The winners are selected by committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates, ensuring peer-based recognition of excellence.
Highlights of 2026 Awards
The 2026 prizes recognised breakthroughs in areas such as sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia (genetic blood disorders), highlighting progress in medical science.
They also acknowledged the development of Casgevy (the first CRISPR-based medicinal treatment, using gene-editing technology to treat diseases), marking a milestone in biotechnology.
Additionally, achievements in understanding the evolution of waves over time (advanced physics research) were honoured, reflecting contributions to fundamental physics.
Circular Economy – Global Shift and India’s Progress
The Union Minister highlighted that India is rapidly progressing towards a circular economy (an economic system focused on reuse and regeneration of resources), citing that the government earned over ₹4,000 crore from scrap, including e-waste, during the Swachhata campaign, reflecting a shift in viewing waste as an economic asset.
About Circular Economy
A circular economy is defined by the International Organization for Standardization as an economic system that maintains a continuous flow of resources by recovering, retaining, or enhancing their value, while promoting sustainable development.
It contrasts with the linear economy model (take–make–consume–dispose pattern), which leads to resource depletion and waste generation.
In the Indian context, the circular economy has the potential to generate over $2 trillion in market value and create nearly 10 million jobs by 2050, indicating strong economic and employment prospects.
Key Benefits of Circular Economy
It helps in reducing waste generation, thereby lowering environmental impact.
It supports preservation of natural capital (protection of natural resources like forests, water, minerals).
It reduces dependence on raw materials, enhancing resource efficiency and sustainability.
It also contributes to job creation and new business opportunities in recycling, reuse, and innovation sectors.
Key Challenges in Realising Circular Economy in India
A major issue is inefficient waste collection and segregation, which makes it difficult to identify and recover recyclable materials effectively.
There is also a limited availability of recycled materials, forcing industries to depend on virgin (newly extracted) raw materials.
The problem of downcycling (recycling materials into lower-quality products) reduces the overall value and efficiency of recycling processes.
Additional challenges include limited research and development (R&D) and the absence of a comprehensive multi-stakeholder understanding of circular economy principles.
Key Measures Taken in India
At the policy level, initiatives like the National Resource Efficiency Policy (NREP), 2019 and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework (making producers responsible for product lifecycle waste) aim to promote resource efficiency.
Enabling schemes such as the Swachh Bharat Mission (aiming for a cleaner and zero-waste India) and the Atal Innovation Mission (supporting innovation and circular business models) facilitate implementation.
For research and development, the NITI Aayog Circular Economy Cell works with specialised groups on sectors like tyres, e-waste, and scrap metal.
Sector-specific policies include the Steel Scrap Recycling Policy, MSE-SPICE (scheme for promoting circular economy in Micro and Small Enterprises), and Ecomark Rules (eco-labelling for sustainable products).
At the global level, India has taken leadership through initiatives like the Jaipur Declaration (2025) at the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia-Pacific and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment—promoting sustainable consumption).
Overall, the transition towards a circular economy represents a paradigm shift (fundamental change in approach) from waste generation to resource efficiency and sustainability, positioning India for long-term economic and environmental gains.
India’s Forest Carbon Storage Potential
A recent study suggests that India’s forests could nearly double their carbon storage capacity by 2100, meaning forests may absorb significantly more carbon dioxide (CO₂—major greenhouse gas responsible for climate change) over time.
Key Highlights of the Study
The study projects an increase in vegetation carbon biomass (amount of carbon stored in plant matter) ranging from 35% under low-emission scenarios to 97% under high-emission scenarios by 2100.
The major drivers of this increase include elevated atmospheric CO₂ levels (which enhance photosynthesis—process by which plants convert CO₂ into energy) and rainfall variability (changes in precipitation patterns affecting plant growth).
The most significant growth, exceeding 60% increase, is expected in arid and semi-arid regions such as Rajasthan and Gujarat, where vegetation expansion may be more pronounced.
India’s Targets and Trends
Under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs—climate action commitments under the Paris Agreement), India aims to create an additional carbon sink of 3.5–4.0 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2035 (from 2005 levels) through enhanced forest and tree cover.
As per the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, India’s total forest carbon stock increased from 6.94 billion tonnes in 2013 to 7.29 billion tonnes in 2023, reflecting gradual improvement.
Additionally, total forest and tree cover has risen to 25.17% of India’s geographical area (from 24.62% in 2021), indicating positive trends in afforestation and conservation.
Key Initiatives for Enhancing Carbon Storage
The Green India Mission (GIM) aims to increase forest and tree cover by 5 million hectares (mha) and improve the quality of another 5 mha of forest and non-forest land.
The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) focuses on ecological restoration of degraded forests and promotes community participation in forest development.
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) ensures compensation through afforestation when forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes.
Other initiatives include the Trees Outside Forests in India (TOFI) programme (promoting tree cover beyond forests), Bonn Challenge commitment (restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land), Sub-Mission for Agroforestry (SMAF) (integrating trees with agriculture), Green Credit Programme (GCP) (incentivising environmental actions), and Nagar Van Yojana (urban forest development).
Methane Emissions
A report titled “Spotlight on the Top 25 Methane Plumes in 2025: Landfills” released by the University of California (UCLA) has identified two waste sites in India among the world’s top methane emitters, highlighting concerns over landfill-related emissions.
These sites include waste facilities in Secunderabad and Mumbai, with emissions reported at around 4.9 tonnes of methane per hour, indicating a significant environmental impact.
About Methane
Methane (CH₄) is a powerful greenhouse gas (gas that traps heat in Earth’s atmosphere) and is the second-largest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Although methane has a shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to CO₂, it is much more efficient at trapping heat, making it a high-impact driver of climate change in the short term.
Ammonia
Department of fertilizers issued an advisory restricting the sale of surplus ammonia to the fertiliser sector.
It may affect the pharmaceutical industry as it relies on ammonia for production of medicines and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).
About Ammonia
Production Process: Produced via Haber-Bosch process, where hydrogen and nitrogen are combined.
Major Uses: Around 70% of ammonia is used in fertilizers, while the rest is utilized in industrial applications including plastics, explosives, and synthetic fibres.
Global Production:China is the largest producer ( ~30%), followed by the US, the European Union, India etc.
Salween River
Alarming Arsenic contamination has been found in the Salween River.
About Salween River
Also known as Nu (China) and Thanlwin (Myanmar), it is the second longest river in Southeast Asia after the Mekong River.
It is the longest waterway without a dam in Southeast Asia.
Origin: Mountain Tangula on the Tibetan plateau
Empties in: Gulf of Martaban in the Andaman Sea
Basin: China (53%), Myanmar (42%) and Thailand (5%)
Tributaries: Moei, Pang, Teng, Pawn, Hka, and Hsim
Earth Day
Earth Day is being celebrated on 22nd April with the 2026 Theme being ‘Our Power, Our Planet’ focussing on renewable energy.
About Earth Day
Celebrated each year on April 22, it marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.
History:
The First Earth Day (April 22, 1970): Started as a nationwide mass protest demanding sustainable change in the US.
This led to the creation of the US Environment Protection Agency and the Clean Air Act.
Going Global (1990): Expanded internationally in 1990, to broaden, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.
Tadoba-Andhari
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) serves as a model for balancing wildlife conservation with the economic needs of local communities.
TATR has achieved this by strengthening co-existence between villagers and animals.
Local villagers benefit from tourism economy and revenue sharing, supports value-added forest produce collection and invests in zero-waste management.
About Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve
Location: In central plateau province of Deccan Peninsula - Chandrapur district of Maharashtra.
Flora: Southern tropical dry deciduous forest with teak, bija, dhauda, hald, salai, semal, and tendu.
Fauna: Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Wild Dog, Gaur etc.
River: Andhari River.
Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in India
Odisha has become the first state in India to launch Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) (a scientific approach to manage marine resources and activities), marking a significant step in sustainable ocean governance.
For implementation, Odisha has signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding—formal agreement) with the National Centre for Coastal Research under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, ensuring technical and scientific support.
Prior to this, MSP had been implemented in the Union Territories of Puducherry and Lakshadweep under the Indo-Norway Integrated Ocean Initiative (2019), indicating its gradual adoption in India.
About Marine Spatial Planning (MSP)
Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is a public and participatory process that involves analysing and allocating the spatial (geographical) and temporal (time-based) distribution of human activities in marine areas, with the aim of achieving ecological, economic, and social objectives.
Significance of MSP
MSP helps to boost the Blue Economy (sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth) by enabling efficient and sustainable utilisation of marine resources.
It supports policy formulation, such as allocating marine space for activities like offshore wind energy projects and deep-sea mining, while minimising environmental conflicts.
It also strengthens climate resilience (ability to adapt to climate impacts) by promoting integrated and sustainable ocean management practices.
Global Support Framework
The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission under UNESCO develops guidelines and provides support for MSP implementation globally, helping countries adopt best practices.
Samriddh Gram Initiative and WSIS
The Samriddh Gram Initiative has been nominated for the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2026 under the Enabling Environment category (recognising initiatives that create supportive conditions for digital development).
The WSIS Prizes allow participation from governments, private companies, civil society, and international organisations, and involve a public online voting process to select champions before the final evaluation.
About Samriddh Gram Initiative
The Samriddh Gram Initiative is an Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model (combining physical and digital service delivery), implemented by the Ministry of Communications.
It is built on the backbone of BharatNet (a nationwide optical fibre network for rural connectivity), through which Samriddhi Kendras (service centres) are established as one-stop hubs.
These centres deliver integrated “phygital” services (physical + digital services combined), ensuring easier access for rural populations.
The initiative is significant as it enables rural citizens to access essential services such as healthcare, education, agriculture support, financial inclusion (access to banking and financial services), and e-commerce, thereby promoting inclusive development.
About World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is a two-phase multi-stakeholder global summit aimed at promoting digital development and inclusive information societies.
The Geneva Phase (2003) established the foundational framework for global information society development, while the Tunis Phase (2005) focused on implementation and led to the Tunis Agenda (which established the Internet Governance Forum—platform for global internet policy dialogue).
The summit is led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a United Nations specialised agency responsible for information and communication technologies.
Jamun (Syzygium cumini)
A recent study indicates that Jamun (Syzygium cumini) originated much earlier than previously believed, with India playing a central role in its evolutionary history (long-term biological development of a species).
Distribution and Habitat
Jamun is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, meaning it naturally occurs and evolved in these regions.
It is widely distributed across countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, reflecting its adaptability to regional climates.
Climatic Conditions and Growth
Jamun is an evergreen tree (retains leaves throughout the year) that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates (regions with warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall).
It shows high adaptability as it is tolerant to waterlogging (excess water in soil) and salinity (presence of salts in soil), making it suitable for diverse environments.
Due to these characteristics, it is widely used in agroforestry (integration of trees with agriculture) and afforestation programmes (planting trees to increase forest cover).
Jamun holds medicinal importance, as its seeds and bark are used in Ayurveda (traditional Indian system of medicine), particularly for managing diabetes (regulating blood sugar levels).
Adi Shankaracharya
The Prime Minister paid tribute to Adi Shankaracharya on his Jayanti (birth anniversary), recognising his profound contribution to Indian philosophy and spiritual thought.
Adi Shankaracharya (8th Century CE) was born in 788 A.D. in Kalady, and is regarded as one of the greatest philosophers and theologians of India.
He propagated the philosophy of Advaita (non-dualism—belief that reality is one and indivisible), which became a cornerstone of Vedantic thought.
According to Advaita, the individual soul (Atman—inner self) is not separate from Brahman (ultimate, formless universal reality), meaning both are fundamentally the same.
He further explained that the perceived duality of the world is Maya (illusion), and true liberation (Moksha—freedom from cycle of birth and death) is attained through the realisation of this oneness.
To institutionalise his teachings, he established four Mathas (monastic centres) in the four cardinal directions of India—Sringeri (South), Dwarka (West), Puri (East), and Badrinath (North)—which continue to preserve and propagate his philosophy.
He also made significant literary contributions, authoring works such as Bhaja Govindam (devotional hymn), Atma Shatakam (philosophical verses on self-realisation), and Saundarya Lahari (poetic work on divine beauty and spirituality).