Daily Current Affairs - 29th January to 2nd February 2026
- Kaushal
- 1 day ago
- 28 min read
Updated: 48 minutes ago
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | India–World Bank New Country Partnership Framework 2026–31, Rafah Crossing, Donetsk Peace Talks, World Nuclear Outlook Report, Menstrual Health as Fundamental Right, SJ-100 Aircraft, New Ramsar Sites, Coking Coal as Critical Mineral, New SWM Rules 2026, Himalayan GLOF Risks, Sinking River Deltas, Living Root Bridges UNESCO Bid, PAIMANA Portal, Grain ATMs, Kalbelia Community and more.
If you missed Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP) | Nov - Dec 2025, read it hereTable of Content
SECURITY / DEFENCE
ENVIRONMENT & GEOGRAPHY
New Country Partnership Framework
A NCPF for 2026-2031 has been signed between India and the World Bank for a provision of $8-10 billion.
About NCPF
The partnership prioritises private sector-led job creation by upgrading skills, reducing barriers for small and medium enterprises, and expanding opportunities-particularly for youth and women.
The partnership identifies four strategic outcomes:
Boosting rural prosperity and resilience: By diversifying incomes beyond agriculture.
Supporting urban transformation: As the country's urban population is projected to double to 800 million by 2050;
Investing in people: Across health, education and skills.
Strengthening energy security, core infrastructure and climate resilience: Including renewable energy, e-mobility and green hydrogen.
Rafah Crossing
Gaza’s Rafah crossing border partially reopens after being largely shut since it was seized by Israel two years ago.
About Rafah Crossing
The Rafah Border Crossing is located between Egypt and the Gaza Strip.
It is the southernmost post of exit from Gaza and borders Egypt's Sinai Peninsula.
The Rafah crossing into Egypt -- often called Gaza's "lifeline" -- is the only border access for the territory that does not pass through Israel.
It is a critical lifeline for humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and for the very few who are granted permission to travel.
There are only two other border crossings from and into the Gaza Strip - Erez, a crossing into Israel in northern Gaza, which is for people, and Kerem Shalom, a solely commercial goods junction with Israel in southern Gaza.
Donetsk region
Control over the remaining Ukrainian-held areas of the Donetsk region has emerged as the key unresolved issue in ongoing Russia–Ukraine peace negotiations.
About Donetsk Region
Location - Located in Eastern Ukraine, it is one of the two key regions of Donbas (other: Luhansk).
Borders - Sea of Azov (connected to Black Sea through Strait of Kerch) to south and Russia to east.
Resources - Rich in coal and shale gas (eg. Yuzivska gas field), salt reserves.
Al-Jawf Region
Al-Jawf’s interior deserts saw snow for the first time on record.
About Al-Jawf Region
Location: Northern Saudi Arabia, one of the 13 administrative regions.
It lies at the northern edge of the Al-Nafūd desert.
Historical Significance: An ancient route for trade and pilgrims between the Arabian Peninsula, Levant, and Egypt.
Notable Feature: Dawmat al-Jandal Lake lies north of the region, largest lake in Saudi Arabia.
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp
Recently European Union added IRGC to its terrorist list in response to Iran’s deadly crackdown on protesters
About IRGC
It is considered Iran's most powerful armed force.
Origin - set up shortly after the 1979 islamic revolution to defend the country's Islamic system.
Capabilities - it has capabilities across land, air and sea, as well as overseeing Iran's strategic weapons.
It also controls the paramilitary Basij Resistance Force inside Iran
It operates independently of Iran’s regular military and is accountable directly to Supreme Leader of Iran.
World Nuclear Outlook Report
World Nuclear Association released the World Nuclear Outlook Report.
Key Highlights
Global nuclear power capacity could surge to 1,446 gigawatt electric (GWe) by 2050, surpassing 1,200 GWe target, established under the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy.
The Declaration was launched at the COP28 meeting in Dubai in 2023.
Five countries — China, France, India, Russia and the United States — could account for 980 GWe of global capacity in 2050.
It recommended integrating nuclear energy into long-term decarbonization and energy security planning and reform electricity markets to ensure equitable treatment of nuclear energy.
Regional Rural Banks
The Finance Ministry said Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) will diversify their loan portfolios to enhance credit flow
About Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
Established under provisions of RRBs Act, 1976
Ownership: Joint ownership of Government of India (50%), concerned State Government (15%), and Sponsor Bank (35%)
Regulation: Regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and supervised by NABARD.
Aim: Promote agriculture, trade, commerce, industry, and other productive activities in rural areas.
Priority Sector Lending (PSL): Minimum 75% of total outstanding advances (revised in 2016), within RBI-prescribed sub-targets.
Report of the Expert Group on Comprehensive Updation of the CPI
The Expert Group was constituted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to carry out the base revision of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The group has recommended enhancements and methodological modifications for the new CPI series known as CPI 2024.
About Consumer Price Index (CPI)
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures changes over time in the general retail prices of goods and services consumed by households.
The CPI tracks prices of a fixed basket of goods and services, which represents typical household consumption patterns.
The CPI is compiled every month by MoSPI for rural, urban, and combined sectors.
Monthly compilation ensures regular monitoring of inflation trends across different population segments.
The CPI is calculated using the Laspeyres Index Formula, which compares current prices with base year prices.
The Laspeyres Index Formula uses Base Year Prices, Base Year Weights, and Current Month Prices.
Base Year Prices refer to prices of items in the selected reference year.
Base Year Weights represent the relative importance of each item in household consumption.
Current Month Prices capture prevailing market prices during the reference month.
CPI serves as the primary inflation indicator for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in monetary policy formulation.
CPI is used as a deflator, which adjusts nominal GDP into real GDP by removing the effect of inflation.
CPI is applied for indexation of wages and contracts, meaning payments are adjusted for inflation.
CPI is also used to revise social security payments to maintain purchasing power.
Key Methodological Changes Introduced in CPI 2024
Base Year Revision
The base year acts as the reference point for price comparison in index calculation.
In CPI 2012, the base year was 2012. In CPI 2024, the base year has been updated to 2024 to reflect recent consumption patterns.
Expansion of Item Basket
The number of items in CPI determines how comprehensively consumption is captured.
CPI 2012 included 299 items, consisting of 259 goods and 40 services.
CPI 2024 expands the basket to 358 items, consisting of 308 goods and 50 services.
Inclusion of Online Markets
Online markets refer to digital platforms where goods and services are sold electronically.
CPI 2012 did not cover online markets.
CPI 2024 includes 12 online markets to capture evolving consumption behavior.
These online markets will be covered in cities with populations above 25 lakh.
Updated Data Classification System
Data classification ensures uniform grouping of consumption items for international comparability.
CPI 2012 followed COICOP 1999, which is the Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose.
CPI 2024 adopts COICOP 2018, which is the updated international standard.
Under CPI 2024, data is classified into Divisions, Groups, Classes, and Subclasses.
House Rent Index Compilation
The House Rent Index measures changes in residential rental prices.
In CPI 2012, house rent was compiled only for urban areas.
CPI 2012 included employer-provided accommodation in house rent calculations.
In CPI 2024, house rent will be compiled for both urban and rural areas.
CPI 2024 excludes employer-provided accommodation from house rent calculations.
Improved State-Level Data Dissemination
Data dissemination refers to the public release of index numbers and inflation rates.
CPI 2012 provided only a combined index at the state level.
CPI 2024 will publish rural, urban, and combined indices at the state level.
CPI 2024 will also release state-level inflation rates separately.
Change in Food and Beverages Weightage
Weightage indicates the relative importance of a category in the overall CPI.
In CPI 2012, Food and Beverages had a weightage of 45.86%.
In CPI 2024, the weightage of Food and Beverages has been reduced to 36.75%.
The reduction reflects changing consumption patterns and diversification of spending.
Gita Mittal Committee
Supreme Court (SC) extended the tenure of Gita Mittal Committee by another six months.
About Gita Mittal Committee
3 member All-women committee comprising former High Court judges.
Headed by former Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court, Justice Gita Mittal.
Constituted in August 2023 by SC to address the humanitarian concerns stemming from the ethnic clashes in Manipur.
Key Mandate: Inquire into nature of violence against women; ensure free and psychological medical assistance to survivors, etc.
Supreme Court Observation on Menstrual Health in Schools
The Supreme Court of India observed that menstrual health in schools is integral to the Right to Life.
The Right to Life is guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
The Court directed the pan-India implementation of the Union Government’s Menstrual Hygiene (MH) Policy for School-going Girls.
The policy applies to adolescent girl children studying in Classes 6 to 12.
Key Highlights of the Supreme Court Judgment
Menstrual Health as a Fundamental Right
The Court held that the right to menstrual health is a component of the Right to Life under Article 21.
Menstrual health refers to safe, hygienic, and dignified management of menstruation.
Linkage with Article 14 – Right to Equality
Article 14 of the Constitution guarantees the Right to Equality before law.
The Court observed that inaccessibility of menstrual hygiene measures prevents girls from participating equally in school life.
Such inaccessibility results in unequal educational opportunities for girl students.
Dignity of the Girl Child
The Court emphasized that human dignity is an essential element of Article 21.
Dignity must translate into living conditions free from humiliation.
Dignity must also ensure freedom from stigma and social exclusion.
Structural Discrimination and Right to Education
Structural discrimination refers to systemic barriers that disadvantage a group.
The Court noted that lack of sanitary products amounts to structural discrimination against girls.
Such discrimination affects the fundamental right to education under Article 21A.
Article 21A guarantees the Right to Free and Compulsory Education.
The Court linked this violation to the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
Mandatory Institutional Measures in Schools
The Court mandated sensitisation of male teachers and male students on menstrual health.
Sensitisation refers to awareness-building to reduce stigma and misconceptions.
The Court directed provision of gender-segregated toilets in all schools.
Gender-segregated toilets ensure privacy and safety for girl students.
Schools must provide free sanitary napkins to girl students.
The Court recommended distribution preferably through sanitary napkin vending machines.
The Court also mandated establishment of dedicated Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) corners.
MHM corners are designated spaces for access to sanitary products and information.
Government Initiatives for Promotion of Menstrual Health
Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene
The Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene aims to increase awareness about menstrual health.
The scheme focuses on enhancing access to sanitary napkins.
The scheme promotes eco-friendly disposal practices for menstrual waste.
National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management
The National Guidelines on MHM were issued under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
These guidelines aim to create awareness about menstrual hygiene in rural areas.
Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana
The Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana provides affordable generic medicines.
Janaushadhi Kendras under the scheme sell sanitary napkins branded as ‘Suvidha’.
Suvidha sanitary napkins are oxo-biodegradable, meaning they degrade faster than conventional plastic.
Suvidha sanitary napkins are available at a price of ₹1 per pad.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme aims to promote gender equality and girl child welfare.
BBBP includes initiatives to generate awareness about menstrual health.
The scheme encourages the use of sanitary napkins among adolescent girls.
Samagra Shiksha Scheme
The Samagra Shiksha Scheme is an integrated programme for school education.
Under the scheme, sanitary pad vending machines are installed in schools.
The scheme also supports installation of incinerators for safe disposal of sanitary waste.
SJ-100 Aircraft
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation have signed a deal for production of Superjet 100 (SJ-100) commercial aircraft in India.
About SJ-100 Aircraft
New generation short-haul jet aircraft with passenger Capacity of Up to 103 and Flight Range of up to 3500 km.
Advantages: Advanced aerodynamics, digital fly-by-wire control system, state-of-the-art cockpit with control side sticks.
Importance for India: HAL will licence-produce the twin-engine, narrow-body jets, supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming at reducing import dependency for regional connectivity.
Supercapacitors
Indian Researchers developed a high-voltage supercapacitor based on a dual-functional porous graphene carbon nanocomposite (PGCN) electrode.
This could enable electric vehicles (EVs) to achieve faster acceleration and extended driving range, while also benefiting solar and grid-scale energy storage.
About Supercapacitors
They are electrochemical cells that store electric charge through electrostatic action.
They comprise of two electrodes (anode, cathode), an electrolyte, and a separator.
They use electrodes materials with thinner dielectrics and high specific surface area for attaining higher capacitance.
Significance: Long cycle life, high strength and environment friendly.
Helix Nebula
The James Webb Space Telescope has captured the Helix Nebula.
It will help scientists understand how dying stars recycle elements like carbon in space into stars and planets.
About Nebula
They are huge cloud of gas and dust in space and are often called the birthplaces and graveyards of stars.
Other objects in space
Cepheids: Stars which brighten and dim periodically.
Pulsars: Rotating neutron stars observed to have pulses of radiation at very regular intervals.
Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)
A recent study has shown that even a subtle solar Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) can trigger intense geomagnetic storms on Earth
About Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)
It is a large expulsion of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun’s corona.
CMEs travel through space at very high speeds and can disturb Earth’s magnetosphere, causing geomagnetic storms.
Causes: Often associated with solar flares and active sunspot regions.
Impacts: Disruption in satellites, power grids, navigation systems and radio communications etc.
Use of Stem Cell Therapy to Treat Autism is Unethical
The Supreme Court of India (SC) held that the use of stem cell therapy (SCT) to treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is unethical.
The Court categorically barred medical practitioners from offering SCT as a treatment for ASD.
The prohibition applies to clinical use, promotion, and advertisement of SCT for ASD.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder.
ASD affects how individuals interact with others, communication abilities, learning patterns and behavioural responses.
Ethical Issues Involved in Using SCT for ASD
Lack of Proof of Efficacy
Proof of efficacy refers to scientifically validated safety and effectiveness of a therapy.
SCT lacks proven safety and efficacy for treating ASD.
SCT is not recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for ASD.
SCT is also not approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) for ASD.
Unethical Commercial Use
Offering SCT as a routine treatment violates accepted medical standards.
Such offering breaches medical ethics governing professional conduct.
The violation is assessed using the Bolam test.
The Bolam test evaluates whether a medical practice conforms to standards accepted by a responsible body of medical professionals.
Limits of Consent and Patient Autonomy
Patient autonomy is protected under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Court held that consent is not absolute in medical decision-making.
Article 21 does not permit choosing unproven and unsafe therapies.
Research-Only Permission
SCT for ASD is permitted only for research purposes.
Research use is allowed only within approved clinical trials.
Such trials must follow regulatory safeguards.
Such trials must also adhere to ethical safeguards.
Professional Misconduct
Professional misconduct refers to actions violating professional standards.
Use of SCT for ASD constitutes professional misconduct under NMC norms.
Promotion of SCT for ASD also amounts to professional misconduct.
Advertisement of SCT for ASD equally amounts to professional misconduct.
What is Stem Cell Therapy (SCT)?
Stem Cell Therapy (SCT) involves the use of stem cells as a treatment for medical conditions.
Stem cells are special cells that can develop into different types of cells.
Stem cells are usually found in embryos and adult tissues.
Some stem cells have the ability of self-renewal, meaning they can divide and replicate.
Standard Applications of Stem Cell Therapy
SCT has standard medical applications in Leukemia.
SCT has standard medical applications in Lymphoma.
SCT has standard medical applications in Parkinson’s Disease.
ICMR Position on Stem Cell Therapy
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued guidelines in 2021 on SCT.
ICMR recognizes SCT as a standard treatment only for hematological disorders.
Hematological disorders are diseases affecting blood and blood-forming organs.
Advantages of Stem Cell Therapy
SCT enables tissue regeneration.
SCT allows targeted treatment of specific tissues or organs.
SCT offers potential cures, especially where conventional therapies are limited.
NDCT Rules, 2019
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified key amendments to the New Drugs and Clinical Trials (NDCT) Rules, 2019.
The amendments aim to simplify regulatory processes while maintaining drug safety standards.
Legal Basis of NDCT Rules
The NDCT Rules, 2019 are notified under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 regulates the import, manufacture, distribution, and quality of drugs in India.
Key Amendments to NDCT Rules, 2019
Replacement of Licensing with Prior-Intimation Mechanism
The amendment replaces the test licence requirement with a prior-intimation mechanism.
A test licence earlier permitted manufacture or import of drugs for testing purposes.
Under the new system, entities must submit online prior intimation.
The intimation must be submitted to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
The prior-intimation mechanism applies only to non-commercial purposes.
Role of CDSCO
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is India’s national drug regulatory authority.
CDSCO is responsible for approval of drugs in the country.
CDSCO oversees the conduct of clinical trials.
CDSCO lays down standards for drugs.
CDSCO exercises control over the quality of imported drugs.
Reduced Processing Timeline for Test Licences
The amendment reduces the statutory processing period for test licences.
The processing timeline has been reduced from 90 days.
The revised processing timeline is 45 days.
Waiver of Prior Permission for Low-Risk Studies
The amendment provides a waiver of prior permission for certain studies.
The waiver applies to low-risk bioavailability and bioequivalence (BA/BE) studies.
Bioavailability (BA) refers to the rate and extent to which a drug enters systemic circulation.
Bioequivalence (BE) refers to the equivalence in bioavailability between two drug products.
Mercury
Analysis of data from NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft revealed numerous bright streaks that look like traces left by gas escaping from beneath the crust of Mercury.
It suggests Mercury might be geologically active unlike previously thought.
About MESSENGER Spacecraft
Launched by NASA, MESSENGER (MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging) was the first spacecraft to orbit mercury.
Key Discoveries:
Confirmed water ice in shadowed craters.
Established that it has a large iron-rich core.
Detected weak magnetic field.
About Mercury
It is the fastest, smallest, second densest and closest planet to Sun.
It doesn’t have a thick atmosphere but only a thin exposphere.
It has no moons or rings.
Celphos
Doctors demonstrated major breakthrough in treatment of Celphos poisoning by intravenous lipid emulsion therapy.
About Celphos
Aluminium phosphide is commonly known as Celphos.
Aluminum phosphide is a grain fumigant that releases deadly phosphine gas upon ingestion.
A fumigant is a highly toxic, volatile chemical compound used in gaseous form to kill pests like insects, nematodes, and rodents in enclosed spaces, soil, or stored products.
Aluminium phosphide poisoning continues to be a serious public-health challenge, particularly in agricultural states such as Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
Dark Matter
Based on observations from James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers unveil a detailed map of dark matter.
Dark Matter
It is a hypothesised form of matter that is invisible but is inferred to exist based on its gravitational effects on ordinary matter like stars, planets, moons, etc.
It does not emit, absorb, or reflect light and barely interacts with normal matter.
Composition of Universe: normal or visible matter (5%), dark matter (27%), and dark energy (68%).
James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)
It aims to study every major phase in the history of the Universe from the first luminous objects after the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies, stars, and planetary systems, and the evolution of our own Solar System.
Launched Year: 2021.
Location: Orbits the Sun at the second Lagrange point (L2).
Hanle Dark Sky Reserve
Rare blood-red auroral activity was captured by the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Ladakh's Hanle.
Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)
It is the first dark sky reserve in the country.
Location: Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
Benefits: Its high elevation and minimal light pollution provide crystal-clear atmospheric conditions for deep-space observation.
It houses the Indian Astronomical Observatory, featuring the Himalayan Chandra Telescope.
Note: Red Aurora occurs above 200 km where the atmosphere is very thin.
Two New Ramsar Sites in India
The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the inclusion of two new wetlands to India’s Ramsar List.
The Ramsar List is a global list of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
With this addition, the total number of Ramsar Sites in India has increased to 98.
About Patna Bird Sanctuary
Patna Bird Sanctuary is a protected bird sanctuary.
It is located in Etah district of Uttar Pradesh.
The sanctuary was established in 1991.
It is the smallest bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.
Avifaunal Diversity in Patna Bird Sanctuary
The sanctuary is a habitat for aquatic birds.
Aquatic birds are species that depend on water bodies for feeding and breeding.
The sanctuary hosts the Lesser Whistling-Duck, Graylag Goose, Comb Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Indian Spot-billed Duck, Northern Shoveler and Northern Pintail.
About Chhari-Dhand Wetland Reserve
Chhari-Dhand Wetland Reserve is a protected wetland ecosystem.
It is located in Kutch district of Gujarat.
The wetland lies on the edge of the arid Banni grasslands.
Banni grasslands are tropical grasslands known for seasonal wetlands and pastoral livelihoods.
The wetland also borders the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch.
The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt marsh located in western India.
Etymology of Chhari-Dhand
The word “Chhari” means salty in the Kutchi language.
The word “Dhand” means shallow wetlands in the Kutchi language.
Biodiversity Significance of Chhari-Dhand
Chhari-Dhand Wetland Reserve is home to endangered bird species.
The wetland supports the Dalmatian Pelican, Oriental Darter, Black-necked Stork and Indian Skimmer.
Unique Natural Phenomenon
The area is also known for a mysterious phenomenon called “Chir Batti”.
Chir Batti refers to unexplained glowing lights.
These ghost lights are observed on dark nights.
The phenomenon occurs across the Banni grasslands.
Coking Coal Declared a Critical and Strategic Mineral
The Government of India has notified coking coal as a Critical and Strategic Mineral.
The notification has been issued under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act).
Coking coal has been included in Part D of the First Schedule of the MMDR Act.
Part D of the First Schedule lists Critical and Strategic Minerals.
Rationale Behind the Decision
The decision recognises the strategic role of coking coal in mineral security.
Mineral security refers to assured availability of critical minerals for economic and strategic needs.
The decision also aims to meet the requirements of the domestic steel sector.
The steel sector is a core industry dependent on coking coal.
Import Dependence and Foreign Exchange Impact
India currently imports around 95% of its coking coal requirement.
The imports are primarily used by the domestic steel sector.
High import dependence leads to significant foreign exchange outgo.
Foreign exchange outgo refers to the use of national reserves to pay for imports.
Expected Outcomes of the Notification
The notification is expected to enable faster regulatory approvals.
The decision is expected to improve ease of doing business in the mining sector.
The decision aims to accelerate exploration activities and boost mining activities.
The notification will facilitate exploration of deep-seated mineral deposits.
Deep-seated deposits are mineral reserves located at greater geological depths.
About Coking Coal
Coking coal is a vital raw material for steel production.
It is used in steel manufacturing through the blast furnace route.
The blast furnace route is the traditional method of producing steel using coke.
Coking coal is also used in the cement industry, chemical industries and petrochemical industries.
Coking Coal Reserves in India
India has an estimated 37.37 billion tonnes of coking coal reserves.
The majority of reserves are located in Jharkhand.
Reserves are also found in Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh.
Challenges in Coking Coal Sector
Domestic production of coking coal remains insufficient.
Indian coking coal has high ash content.
High ash content reduces efficiency in steel production.
Mining faces challenges due to legacy mine issues.
Legacy mine issues include underground fires and land subsidence.
The sector suffers from limited geological data.
Mining projects face land acquisition challenges.
Government Initiatives to Boost Coking Coal Availability
The government has launched Mission Coking Coal.
Mission Coking Coal aims to increase domestic production.
The government has allowed 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in commercial coal mining.
FDI refers to foreign investment in domestic business activities.
Coal blocks are allocated through revenue-sharing auctions.
Revenue-sharing auctions allow bidders to share a portion of revenue with the government.
The government has undertaken 39 First Mile Connectivity Projects.
First Mile Connectivity Projects ensure efficient transportation from mines to loading points.
About the MMDR Act, 1957
The MMDR Act, 1957 empowers the Union Government to regulate mining activities.
The Act authorises the development of mineral resources in the country.
The Act provides for the establishment of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF).
DMF is meant for the welfare of people affected by mining activities.
The Act also establishes the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET).
NMET aims to promote mineral exploration and curb illegal mining.
Key Amendments to the MMDR Act in 2023
The 2023 amendments removed six minerals from the list of twelve atomic minerals.
The amendments empowered the Central Government to exclusively auction concessions for critical minerals.
The amendments introduced an exploration licence.
The exploration licence applies to deep-seated minerals and critical minerals.
Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules 2026
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has notified the SWM Rules, 2026, superseding the SWM Rules, 2016.
The rules have been notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and will come into full effect from April 1, 2026.
The revised rules integrate the principles of Circular Economy and Extended Producer Responsibility.
Key Provisions
Four-stream Segregation of Solid Waste at Source: Four-stream includes wet waste (kitchen waste, etc.), dry waste (plastic, paper, etc.), sanitary waste (used diapers, etc.) and special care waste (paint cans, etc.).
Clear definition of Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs): BWGs include entities with a floor area of 20,000 square metres or more, or water consumption of 40,000 litres per day or more, or solid waste generation of 100 kg per day or more. E.g., state government departments, local bodies
Also, introduced Extended Bulk Waste Generator Responsibility (EBWGR), under which bulk waste generators are made accountable for the solid waste generated by them.
Centralised Online Portal: It will track all stages of solid waste management, including waste generation, collection, transportation, etc.
Promoting use of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) by Industries: RDF is produced by shredding and dehydrating municipal solid waste with high calorific value, primarily consisting of non-recyclable plastic, paper and textiles
Industrial units, including cement plants and waste-to-energy plants have been mandated to use RDF.
Restrictions on Landfilling: Landfills have been strictly restricted to non-recyclable, non-energy recoverable waste and inert material.
Solid Waste Management in Hilly Areas and Islands: E.g., Local bodies can levy user fees on tourists and regulate tourist inflow based on available waste management facilities.
Imposing Environmental Compensation (EC): The rules provide for the levy of EC based on the ‘Polluter Pays’ principle for non-compliance.
Glacial Lake Flood Risks in the H-K Region
Glacial lake flood risks in the Himalaya–Karakoram (H-K) region remain poorly assessed, despite increasing climate threats.
The H-K region is often described as a vital water tower due to its role in sustaining major Asian river systems.
Key Findings from the Nature Study
A research paper published in the journal Nature highlights accelerating glacier warming in the region.
The study reports that more than 19,000 glaciers are warming.
The observed warming rate ranges between 0.15°C and 0.60°C per decade.
Rising temperatures are causing rapid glacier retreat.
Glacier retreat is leading to the expansion of glacial lakes.
Expansion of glacial lakes is increasing the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Regional Distribution of Glacial Lakes
The Eastern Himalayas currently host the highest number of glacial lakes.
The Eastern Himalayas also have the largest total glacial lake area.
The Central Himalayas rank next in terms of glacial lake presence.
The Western Himalayas follow after the Central Himalayas.
Projected Ice Loss under Climate Scenarios
Climate projections assess impacts under high-emission scenarios.
High-emission scenarios assume continued high greenhouse gas emissions.
Under these scenarios, 65% of ice mass in High Mountain Asia could disappear.
This projected ice loss is expected by the year 2100.
Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
A Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) is a sudden release of water from a glacier-fed lake.
Such lakes are formed by glacier meltwater.
These lakes can form at the side of a glacier, in front of a glacier, within a glacier, beneath a glacier and on the surface of a glacier.
A prominent Indian example of a GLOF-linked disaster is the Kedarnath disaster of 2013.
A notable international example is the Dig Tsho GLOF in Nepal.
Hazard Profile of GLOFs
GLOFs are sporadic events, meaning they occur irregularly.
GLOFs are high-impact hazards.
These floods can cause extensive downstream destruction.
Floodwaters often carry debris such as rocks.
Floodwaters also carry soil and uprooted trees.
The debris load significantly increases the destructive potential of GLOFs.
Reasons for Increasing GLOF Risk
Atmospheric warming is the dominant driver of glacier thinning.
Glacier thinning leads to lake expansion.
Ice avalanches act as triggering factors for GLOFs.
Extreme weather events, such as intense precipitation, can trigger GLOFs.
Mass movements of landfills can destabilize glacial lakes.
Permafrost degradation weakens natural barriers around glacial lakes.
Permafrost refers to ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years.
Impact of GLOFs
Human Exposure
Approximately one million people live within 10 km of a glacial lake in the region.
These populations are considered most vulnerable to GLOF hazards.
Economic Cost
GLOFs pose serious threats to hydropower projects.
GLOFs also threaten critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges.
Transboundary Risks
GLOFs can originate in one country. An example of origin countries includes China or the Tibet region.
GLOFs can cause devastation in downstream countries.
Downstream impact countries include Nepal and India.
Such events highlight the transboundary nature of climate-induced disasters.
Study Findings on Plastic Pollution
Study finds Health impacts due to plastics worldwide to double between 2016-2040.
Key Highlights of the Study
Production Peak: Global plastic production may not peak until beyond 2100, with Global plastics demand expecting to double by 2050.
Impact on Human Health: Plastics lifecycles emit a range of gases and pollutants linked to respiratory illnesses, and hazardous chemicals associated with cancers, etc.
Microplastics and Nano plastics have been identified in human tissues with early evidence of cell damage and immune responses.
Compounding Pollution: Plastics lifecycles have led to rising Stratospheric ozone depletion, Photochemical smog formation, Fine particulate matter formation all impacting human health.
Key Initiatives on Reducing Plastic Pollution
Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021: Strengthens regulations on plastic waste.
It implemented ban on Identified Single-Use Plastics from 1st July 2022.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), 2022: Companies that make or sell plastic products must take care of the waste.
India’s Role in Global Initiatives:
Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (2019): India played a role in bringing plastic waste under Convention’s Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure.
G20 Osaka Blue Ocean Vision (2019): India and other countries set a goal to stop adding any new plastic waste to oceans by 2050.
High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (2021): India joined it with the aim to protect at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.
Other Initiatives: Global (UNEP Plastics Initiative; Ongoing negotiations on Global Plastics Treaty, etc.); Indian (Creation of Plastic Parks; Swachh Bharat Mission, etc.).
Roadmap to 100 GW of Hydro PSPs by 2035–36
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has released a report outlining a roadmap to achieve 100 GW of Hydro Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) by 2035–36.
The report recognises PSPs as critical to India’s clean energy transition.
PSPs are essential for ensuring grid stability.
PSPs support the deployment of long-duration energy storage.
Long-duration energy storage refers to storage systems capable of supplying power for several hours or days.
About Hydro Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs)
Hydro Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are a form of hydroelectric energy storage system.
PSPs use two reservoirs located at different elevations.
Electricity is stored by pumping water upward.
Pumping is done during periods of surplus renewable energy generation.
PSPs generate electricity by releasing stored water downward through turbines.
Power generation occurs during periods of peak electricity demand.
PSPs function like a large-scale battery for the power grid.
Potential and Current Status of PSPs in India
India’s currently installed pumped storage capacity is about 7 GW.
India’s total pumped storage potential is estimated at 267 GW.
On-stream PSPs contribute 58 GW of the total potential.
On-stream PSPs are directly connected to existing river systems.
Off-stream PSPs account for 209 GW of the total potential.
Off-stream PSPs operate independently of river flows.
Types of Pumped Storage Projects
Open-loop PSPs are connected to a natural water body.
Natural water bodies include rivers or lakes.
Closed-loop PSPs have no connection to natural water bodies.
Closed-loop PSPs rely only on artificial reservoirs.
Major Issues Identified by the CEA Report
PSPs face lengthy project clearances.
Delays arise due to regulatory parity with conventional large hydropower projects.
A blanket ban exists in Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs).
A 10-km buffer restriction applies around protected areas.
PSP projects face delays in Stage-II forest clearance.
Stage-II forest clearance refers to final approval under forest conservation laws.
There is a shortage of land for compensatory afforestation.
Compensatory afforestation requires planting forests to offset diversion of forest land.
PSPs involve high capital costs. PSPs face strict regulatory norms in the Western Ghats.
CEA Recommendations to Address Key Issues
The CEA recommends a differentiated regulatory framework for PSPs.
PSP regulations should be separate from large hydropower projects.
The CEA suggests allowing PSPs in Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs).
PSPs should also be allowed within a 10-km aerial distance from Protected Areas where ESZs are not notified.
The CEA recommends streamlining the forest clearance process.
The recommendation aims to reduce procedural delays.
The CEA proposes permitting degraded forest land for compensatory afforestation.
Degraded forest land refers to forest areas with reduced ecological quality.
The CEA suggests creating a national land bank.
The land bank should use GIS-mapped degraded land.
GIS (Geographic Information System) enables spatial mapping and monitoring.
The CEA recommends extending Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to PSPs.
VGF provides financial support to infrastructure projects that are economically justified but financially unviable.
The report suggests relaxation of Western Ghats-specific conditions for PSPs.
The Western Ghats are an ecologically sensitive mountain range in India.
Over Half of the World’s Major River Deltas Are Sinking
A recent scientific study reports that over half of the world’s major river deltas are sinking.
The study highlights that seven major river deltas account for a majority of global subsidence.
These seven deltas together account for about 57% of the total subsiding delta area worldwide.
Major River Deltas Identified in the Study
The deltas identified include the Ganga–Brahmaputra Delta.
The study also includes the Nile Delta.
The Mekong Delta is among the affected deltas.
The Yangtze Delta is included in the assessment.
The Amazon Delta is part of the study.
The Irrawaddy Delta is also identified.
The Mississippi Delta completes the list of seven major deltas.
Key Reasons for the Sinking of River Deltas
Excessive Groundwater Extraction
Excessive groundwater extraction is a primary cause of delta subsidence.
Groundwater overuse is driven by unsustainable agricultural demand.
Groundwater extraction is also driven by industrial water use.
Domestic water supply contributes to groundwater stress in densely populated regions.
Land Subsidence Trends
Land subsidence refers to the gradual sinking of the Earth’s surface.
Between 2014 and 2023, more than half of global deltas experienced significant subsidence.
Subsidence rates exceeded 3 millimetres per year during this period.
In India, the Brahmani Delta showed particularly high subsidence rates.
The Mahanadi Delta also ranked among the fastest-sinking deltas in India.
Reduced Seasonal Silt Deposition
Seasonal silt deposition is essential for maintaining delta elevation.
Silt deposition helps counterbalance natural land subsidence.
Natural sediment flow is disrupted by river regulation.
River regulation includes dams and barrages.
Infrastructure development further restricts sediment transport.
About River Deltas
A river delta is a depositional landform.
Deltas form when rivers empty water and sediment into another water body.
Such water bodies include oceans, lakes and other rivers.
Delta formation requires slow and steady river flow.
Slow flow allows silt deposition and accumulation.
Not all rivers form deltas due to insufficient depositional conditions.
Global Significance of River Deltas
River deltas occupy only 1% of the Earth’s land area.
Despite their small area, deltas support around 6% of the global population.
Deltas host 10 of the world’s 34 megacities.
Megacities are urban areas with a population exceeding 10 million.
Importance of River Deltas
Ecosystem Services
Deltas provide critical ecosystem services.
Ecosystem services include natural water filtration.
Deltas exhibit high ecological productivity.
Deltas display significant ecological dynamism.
Wetland Habitats
River deltas are important wetland ecosystems.
Wetland plants such as lilies grow in delta regions.
Wetland plants such as hibiscus are found in deltas.
Deltas support apex predators.
An example of an apex predator is the Sundarbans Tiger.
Protective Functions
Deltas help absorb runoff from river floods.
Deltas also absorb storm surges from lakes or oceans.
This buffering capacity reduces disaster impacts on inland areas.
Measures to Protect River Deltas
Integrated Approach
An integrated management approach is essential for delta protection.
Integrated strategies prioritize subsidence mitigation.
Groundwater regulation is a key mitigation measure.
Managed aquifer recharge helps replenish groundwater levels.
Sediment management ensures adequate silt supply to deltas.
Targeted Interventions
Targeted interventions address subsidence as an immediate challenge.
Such interventions focus on localized high-risk delta zones.
Broader efforts must also address climate change-driven sea-level rise.
Advanced Monitoring Techniques
Advanced monitoring systems are required to track delta changes.
InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) is used to monitor surface elevation.
InSAR detects minute changes in land elevation over time.
Blue Category of Industries
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has classified Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) as Essential Environmental Services under the Blue Category of Industries.
About Blue Category of Industries
It includes Essential Environmental Services (ESS).
ESS are those facilities which are essential to control, abate and mitigate pollution generated from Domestic and Industrial activities.
Key Examples: Includes STPs, Waste-to-Energy plants, biomining, and composting units.
Classification of industrial sectors
CPCB developed a Pollution Index (PI) - based scoring methodology to classify industrial sectors, guided by the Precautionary Principle.
PI evaluates potential for water pollution, air pollution, and Waste generation.
Categories: Red (PI ≥ 80), Orange (55 ≤ PI < 80), Green (25 ≤ PI < 55), and White (PI < 25).
Dust Storm
A study reveals that powerful dust storms from Western India can travel hundreds of kilometers, finally settling over Himalayan hilltops, carrying airborne bacteria, including pathogens that can affect human health.
Winds carry pathogen-laden dust across the Indo-Gangetic Plain, mixing with locally uplifted pollution to alter the high-altitude microbial ecosystem.
Health Risks: These airborne invaders are linked to respiratory, skin, and gastrointestinal infections.
About Dust Storms
These are meteorological phenomena where strong winds lift loose sand and dirt from arid or semi-arid surfaces, transporting them over vast distances.
Typically seasonal, often peaking during pre-monsoon months.
Bomb Cyclone
Recently a Bomb Cyclone hit the northern US triggering severe winter weather.
About Bomb Cyclone
These are formed when a mass of low-pressure air meets a high-pressure mass, the process known as bombogenesis.
It is characterised by rapid pressure drop in the low-pressure mass, by at least 24 millibars in 24 hours.
This increases the pressure gradient and makes the winds stronger (up to 80 kmph).
Occurrences: Most commonly originate in Western North Atlantic because cold air from North America clashes with warm air over the Atlantic Ocean.
Grain ATMs
Bihar is setting up Grain ATMs to smoothen ration delivery.
About Grain ATMs
It is an automated machine that dispenses food grains (wheat and/or rice).
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), which launched a grain ATM project in Odisha in 2024, it can reduce waiting times by 70%.
The WFP developed the technology behind the machine and has worked in collaboration with the Food Corporation of India and various state governments.
It enhances food security by ensuring faster, transparent, dignified and leak-proof delivery of food grains through technology-driven welfare systems.
Living Root Bridges (LRBs)
India submits nomination dossier for Meghalaya’s living root bridges, titled “Jingkieng Jri / Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape” to UNESCO for World Heritage status.
About Meghalaya LRBs
Locally known as Jingkieng Jri, LRB are India rubber tree - based rural connectivity and livelihood solutions within dense subtropical moist broadleaf forest eco-region of Meghalaya.
Grown by: Indigenous Khasi tribal communities.
Use: These living structures include bridges, ladders and steps, which providing reliable mode of transport; platforms and towers (for recreation and security); erosion and landslide prevention structures etc.
Construction Technique:
Trees planted on both riverbanks.
Roots are manually guided, twisted, and interwoven.
Areca palm trunks, bamboo, and stones used as scaffolding.
Takes about 10–15 years to become fully functional.
Aspirational District Programme
NITI Aayog launched ‘Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0’ to undertake a sustained effort to achieve saturation of key Performance indicators in Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks Programme.
Both the Programmes have been launched by NITI Aayog
About Aspirational District Programme (2018)
Aims to quickly and effectively transform 112 districts across the country.
Five themes: Health & Nutrition, Education, Agriculture & Water Resources, Financial Inclusion & Skill Development and Infrastructure.
Progress in measured on 49 indicators of development
Aspirational Block Programme
Launched in 2023, aims for saturation of essential government services in 513 Blocks (329 Districts) across the country.
Village Commons
Centre considers recognising village commons as a distinct land-use category
About Village Commons
Village commons are community-managed common property resources such as grazing lands, ponds and forests.
Significance: Collectively used for livelihoods, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services,
Status: Village commons cover about 15% of India’s geographical area. ( National Sample Survey Organisation, 1998)
Issues faced by village commons: Encroachment, misuse, and ongoing pressures
PAIMANA
Kalbelia
NHRC issues notice to Rajasthan government over burial rights demanded by Kalbelia community.
About Kalbelia community
Nomadic tribe from Thar desert, Rajasthan (mainly Pali, Ajmer, and Udaipur), traditionally known as snake charmers.
Following the ban on snake catching, they transitioned to performing arts.
The Kalbelia Dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.
The females are dancers while the men accompany them on a variety of musical instruments like, Pungi (been), Dufli, and Khanjari.
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