Context:

• In a significant move to combat environmental degradation and enhance ecological balance, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has launched an ambitious plantation campaign aimed at reforesting 9,000 hectares of barren and vacant land across the state. This initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of deforestation but also aligns with broader goals of biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation.

Key Points:

Context and challenges

• Himachal Pradesh, located in the North-Western Himalayan region of India, is characterized by diverse agro-climatic zones, including the Shiwalik hills, mid-hills, high hills, and cold dry zones.
• Over the years, the state has faced severe challenges related to forest degradation due to factors such as illegal logging, land conversion for agriculture, and climate change impacts. The net sown area has declined significantly, exacerbating the loss of forest cover and leading to increased soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.
• The state’s rich biodiversity, which includes numerous endemic and threatened species, has been under threat due to these anthropogenic pressures. The loss of forest cover not only affects wildlife habitats but also disrupts the ecological balance, leading to adverse effects on local climate, water resources, and soil health.
• The government’s commitment to restoring forest cover is underscored by previous successful initiatives. For instance, past campaigns have seen millions of saplings planted over thousands of hectares, demonstrating a proactive approach towards environmental restoration. The current campaign aims to build on this momentum by targeting 9,000 hectares specifically identified as vacant or degraded lands.

Objectives of the Reforestation initiative

The primary objectives of this reforestation initiative include:

• Biodiversity conservation: By planting native species that are well-adapted to local conditions, the campaign aims to restore natural habitats and promote biodiversity conservation.
   
• Carbon sequestration: Trees play a crucial role in carbon sequestration. This initiative will contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of the region while enhancing air quality through oxygen production.
   
• Soil erosion prevention: Planting trees will help prevent soil erosion—a significant concern in hilly terrains—by stabilizing the soil and reducing runoff during monsoon seasons.
   
• Community involvement: Involving local communities in plantation activities not only fosters a sense of ownership but also provides livelihood opportunities through employment in forestry-related activities.

Strategic approaches for implementation

The reforestation campaign will be implemented through several strategic approaches:

• Native species selection: The initiative emphasizes planting over 50 native tree species that are ecologically appropriate for the region. This ensures better survival rates and ecological compatibility.
   
• Community participation: Local Gram Panchayats (village councils) and small farmers will be actively involved in the plantation process. This participatory approach aims to empower communities while ensuring sustainable management practices.
   
• Capacity building: The project will provide necessary technical assistance and training to local stakeholders to enhance their capacity in sustainable forestry practices.
   
• Monitoring and maintenance: Regular monitoring of planted areas will be conducted to ensure tree survival and growth. This includes maintenance activities such as watering, weeding, and protection against pests.

Context:

• The inauguration of Asia's largest modern fruit and vegetable market in Pinjore, Haryana, is a landmark development in the agricultural landscape of the region. This ambitious project aims to revolutionize the way fruits and vegetables are traded, providing a state-of-the-art facility that enhances the efficiency of distribution and supports the livelihoods of farmers and traders alike.

Key Points:

• Strategically situated in Pinjore, the market spans an impressive 78 acres with an estimated construction cost of Rs 220 crore. The project is being developed in phases, with the first phase covering 10 acres completed at a cost of Rs 14.66 crore. The second phase is anticipated to be completed soon, further expanding the market's capabilities and facilities.
  
   

Facilities made available

The market is designed to cater to the needs of modern agricultural trade, featuring:

• Cold storage and controlled environment storage: These facilities are crucial for preserving the freshness and quality of produce, reducing spoilage and waste.
   
• Modern auction platforms: These platforms will facilitate transparent and efficient transactions, ensuring fair prices for both farmers and traders.
   
• Parking facilities: Ample parking space is provided for traders and farmers, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
   
• Future amenities: Plans for additional features include air-conditioned auction halls and packaging units, which will further streamline operations and improve the trading experience.

Benefits for farmers and traders

Economic advantages

• The establishment of this market is expected to significantly reduce transportation costs and time for farmers, particularly those from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Previously, these farmers had to travel approximately 250 km to reach Delhi's Azadpur Mandi, often facing logistical challenges such as traffic congestion and tolls. The new market's proximity—about 90 km from major apple-producing regions—will allow farmers to save both time and money, thereby increasing their profitability.

Market fees benefits

• To further incentivize trade, the Haryana government has reduced market fees from 1% to 0.5%. This reduction makes it more economically viable for traders to operate within this new facility, encouraging greater participation and competition in the market.

Impact on local economy

• The introduction of this market is poised to transform Pinjore into a central hub for apple trade in northern India. It is expected to benefit local farmers significantly while attracting traders from nearby regions. This influx of trade will help meet the growing demand for fruits and vegetables in urban centers such as Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali, thereby stimulating the local economy.

Context:

• The Haryana government has recently announced an ambitious initiative to establish a state-of-the-art Pharmaceutical Park in Karnal, a move that signifies a pivotal step in the state's industrial development strategy.

Key Points:

• This comprehensive project aims to position Haryana as a leading hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation, thereby enhancing its economic landscape and creating numerous job opportunities.
• The proposed Pharmaceutical Park is set to be developed on a sprawling 100 acres of land in Karnal, strategically located approximately 125 kilometers from New Delhi and 135 kilometers from Chandigarh.
• This prime location is expected to facilitate easy access to major markets and supply chains, making it an attractive destination for pharmaceutical companies. The project represents a substantial investment of ?2,000 Crore, which is anticipated to generate significant economic opportunities for the region, including the creation of approximately 25,000 new jobs in the pharmaceutical sector.

Key objectives and vision

The Haryana Pharmaceutical Policy 2019 outlines several critical objectives for the Pharma Park, which are aimed at transforming the state's economic landscape:

1. Economic Transformation:
   • Attracting investments in the pharmaceutical sector amounting to ?2,000 Crore.
   • Generating 25,000 new jobs, thereby enhancing employment opportunities for the local population.
   • Developing Haryana into a comprehensive pharmaceutical manufacturing hub that can cater to both domestic and international markets.
      
2. Strategic infrastructure development:
   • Establishing two distinct manufacturing zones within the park:
     • Formulation Manufacturing Zone: Focused on the production of finished pharmaceutical products.
     • Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) Manufacturing Zone: Dedicated to the production of raw materials essential for drug formulation.

Policy framework and support mechanisms

To foster a conducive environment for pharmaceutical entrepreneurs, the Haryana government has designed a robust policy framework that includes:

• Investor-friendly ecosystem:
  • Single Window Clearance: A streamlined, time-bound approval mechanism to facilitate quick project initiation.
     
  • Subsidized Land Rates: Reduced costs for establishing pharmaceutical units, making it financially viable for investors.
     
  • Financial Incentives: A special package of benefits for new units to encourage investment in the sector.
    
     
• Infrastructure support:
  • 100% Cost Coverage: The government will cover the costs for external and internal infrastructure development, up to ?50 Crore.
     
  • Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP): To ensure environmental sustainability and compliance with regulatory standards.
     
  • Common Cluster Laboratory: Equipped with modern testing equipment to support quality assurance and research activities.

Context:

• The state government of Himachal Pradesh has announced its decision to transform 800 schools and 50 colleges into Centers of Excellence.
   

Key Points:

• This initiative by the government to create new Centers of Excellence marks a significant shift in the educational landscape.
• This move emphasizes activity-based learning (ABL) as a core component of its strategy to foster outcome-oriented education. By prioritizing practical learning experiences over traditional rote memorization, the government aims to equip students with essential skills for the modern world.

The rationale behind Activity-Based Learning

Shift from traditional methods

• Traditional education often relies heavily on standardized testing and passive learning, where students are expected to absorb information without engaging with it actively.
• The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recognizes these limitations and advocates for a more interactive approach. ABL encourages students to participate actively in their learning through hands-on activities, projects, and real-world simulations, thereby fostering critical thinking and creativity.

Benefits of Activity-Based Learning

• Research supports the effectiveness of Activity-Based Learning in enhancing student engagement and retention. According to Edgar Dale's Cone of Experience, learners retain more information when they are actively involved in their education.

 Activity-Based Learning promotes various skills, including:

• Critical thinking: Students learn to analyze and evaluate information critically.
• Problem-Solving: Engaging in real-world scenarios helps students develop solutions to complex problems.
• Collaboration: Group activities foster teamwork and communication skills.
• Creativity: Hands-on projects encourage innovative thinking.

These skills are essential for navigating the complexities of modern life and work environments.

The government has carefully selected institutions based on enrollment numbers, infrastructure, and location to implement this initiative. This strategic selection is crucial for ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that the transition to ABL is manageable.

Teacher training and support

• To facilitate this transformation, dedicated teachers will be appointed to guide students through the new pedagogical model. Teacher training programs will focus on modern teaching methodologies that emphasize student-centered learning. This training is vital, as teachers play a critical role in transitioning from traditional methods to Activity based learning.

Context:

• The International Saraswati Mahotsav is an annual festival celebrated in Haryana, India, dedicated to the veneration of the Saraswati River, which is believed to have ancient origins in the region.

Key Points:

• This event serves as a confluence of culture, heritage, and tradition, aiming to promote Haryana's rich civilization to a global audience. The festival not only honors the historical significance of the Saraswati River but also showcases the vibrant cultural tapestry of Haryana, making it a pivotal event in the state's calendar.

Historical significance of the saraswati river

• The Saraswati River holds a distinguished place in ancient Indian scriptures and is considered a sacred river in Hinduism. Historical and scientific research suggests that the river flowed parallel to the Indus River system around 6000 B.C.
• Originating in the Himalayas, the Saraswati traversed through the western part of the Indo-Gangetic plains, receiving tributaries such as the Satluj, Yamuna, Chautang, and Drishadvati before emptying into the Arabian Sea via Gujarat's Rann of Kutch.
• Over time, due to climatic and tectonic shifts in the Himalayan region, the river gradually disappeared around 3000 B.C. Despite its disappearance, the river's legacy remains an integral part of India's cultural and historical narrative, symbolizing the connection between nature and civilization.

The 2025 International Saraswati Mahotsav

• The International Saraswati Mahotsav 2025 was a seven-day event held recently, inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister at Adi Badri in the Yamunanagar district.
• The Mahotsav featured a diverse array of seminars, cultural programs, and a Saras Mela. The event was organized by the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board, reflecting the state's commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.
• The festival was celebrated for seven days, mirroring the grand scale of the Geeta Jayanti celebrations. The primary venue was Pehowa Saraswati Tirtha Sthal, with events extending from Adi Badri to Pehowa. The Mahotsav showcased Haryana’s cultural heritage, traditions, and art forms, with over 100 craftsmen presenting traditional arts and crafts. Additionally, 25 stalls displayed Haryana’s cultural heritage, while more than 15 stalls from central and state government bodies and 10 food court stalls offered traditional Haryana cuisine.

Objectives of the Mahotsav

The International Saraswati Mahotsav aims to achieve several key objectives:

• Promotion of heritage and tourism: The festival seeks to promote Haryana's rich heritage and boost tourism by attracting visitors from both national and international locations. By showcasing the state's cultural wealth, the Mahotsav aims to position Haryana as a significant tourist destination.
• Platform for local artisans: The event provides a global platform for local artists and craftsmen to showcase their skills and products. The Saras Mela, in particular, is designed to display products from rural artisans, offering them a market platform to sell their goods and gain recognition.
• Preservation of civilization: The Mahotsav aims to preserve India's rich civilization for future generations by drawing global attention to its historical and cultural significance. By celebrating the legacy of the Saraswati River, the festival reinforces the importance of cultural heritage in contemporary society.

Government initiatives for river revival

The Haryana government has undertaken significant efforts to revive the Saraswati River, recognizing its cultural and historical importance. These efforts include:

• Water flow agreements: An agreement has been signed with Himachal Pradesh to ensure a perennial flow of water into the Saraswati River. This involves constructing a dam on the Som River (a Yamuna tributary), along with the Som-Saraswati barrage and a reservoir.
   
• River connectivity projects: Efforts are underway to connect rivers through the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB), constructing Saraswati sarovars and reservoirs to enhance water conservation and management.
   
• Archaeological excavations: Excavations have identified 633 archaeological sites along the Saraswati's path, with approximately 444 located in Haryana. These sites provide tangible evidence of the river's historical existence and its significance in ancient Indian civilization.

Why in News?

• The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began in Prayagraj on 13th January 2024, concluded 45 days later on 26th February 2025 with the Mahashivratri holy bath.

Key Points:

About the Closing Ceremony:

=> The closing ceremony was held at Sangam Ghat on 27th February 2025, in which the Chief Minister officially declared the closing of the Mahakumbh Mela.

=> CM honored the employees and institutions who contributed in making the Maha Kumbh historic, divine, grand, clean, safe and digital.

Key Announcements:

=> Under the Kisan Aapda Yojana, boat operators will receive disaster assistance similar to the Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Bima Yojana, offering financial aid of Rs 5 lakh in case of an unfortunate event.

=> People who do not have health insurance will be covered under Ayushman Bharat Scheme.

=> An additional bonus of Rs 10,000 for the sanitation and health workers deployed on Maha Kumbh duty was also announced.

=> The CM also announced that the state government is all set to form a corporation through which it will provide Rs 16,000 per month to every sanitation worker, health worker and all those workers who were not getting minimum wages.

=> This amount will be sent to their account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) from April 2025.

Major Attractions of Kumbh Mela 2025:

Triveni Sangam:

• The sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Ancient Temples:

• Hanuman Temple, Alopi Devi Temple, Mankameshwar Temple.

Kalagram:

• Cultural village set up by the Ministry of Culture, featuring crafts, cuisine and culture.

Akhara Camp:

• Centre for meditation, discussion and philosophical exchange of sadhus and seekers.

International Bird Festival:

• Over 200 migratory and local birds, including endangered species, were spotted during the festival held from February 16 to 18, 2025.

Important Initiatives Taken:

Medical Facilities:

• 133 ambulances were deployed during the fair, including seven water ambulances and one air ambulance.
• Affordable medicines through Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

Green Initiative:

• Around 56,000 sq. meters of Dense Forests created in Prayagraj in last two years using Miyawaki Technique.
• Baswar dumping yard converted into green area.
• Cleaning of Rivers with trash skimmer machines.

Kumbh Mela:

About:

• In the year 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela is scheduled to be held in Prayagraj from 13 January to 26 February 2025 attended by more than 66.30 crore devotees. The word ' Kumbh' is derived from the metal 'Kumbhaka' (sacred pot of the nectar of immortality). King Harshavardhana of the Pushyabhuti dynasty started organizing the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. It is the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims during which the participants bathe or take a dip in the holy river. This congregation takes place at 4 different places, namely: On the banks of the Ganga at Haridwar. On the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain. On the banks of the Godavari (South Ganga) at Nasik. At the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical invisible Saraswati in Prayagraj. In 2017, UNESCO added the Kumbh Mela to its list of " Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity ".

Different Types of Kumbha:

• Kumbh Mela is celebrated 4 times in 12 years. The Ardh Kumbh Mela is held every sixth year in Haridwar and Prayagraj. The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated at in Prayagraj after every 144 years (after 12 'Purna Kumbh Melas'). Magh Kumbh is celebrated every year in the month of Magh (January-February) in Prayagraj

Included in the UNESCO list:

• UNESCO added the Kumbh Mela to its list of " Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity " in 2017

Why in the News?

• The Maharashtra government is going to provide an additional subsidy of Rs 50,000 for homes in rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

Key Points:

Approval of Additional Subsidy:

=> The state Chief Minister approved the decision to provide an additional subsidy.

=> The Maharashtra government allocated funds for this subsidy in the 2025-26 budget.

Increased Financial Support:

=> The State Rural Development Minister announced that the additional subsidy would raise the total financial assistance per beneficiary to Rs 2.1 lakh.

=> The State government will bear the cost of this additional subsidy.

=> The government aims to complete 20 lakh housing units within a year.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana:

Launch:

• To achieve the objective of “Housing for All” by 2022, the erstwhile rural housing scheme Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY) was restructured to Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) from 1st April 2016, as a centrally sponsored scheme.

Ministry Involved:

• Ministry of Rural Development.

Objective:

• The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana aims to address housing shortages in urban and rural areas.
• The scheme prioritizes economically weaker sections and low-income groups.
• It follows a demand-driven approach, allowing States and Union Territories to approve projects based on identified eligible beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries:

• People belonging to SCs/STs, freed bonded labourers and non-SC/ST categories, widows or next-of-kin of defence personnel killed in action, ex-servicemen and retired members of the paramilitary forces, disabled persons and minorities.

Selection of Beneficiaries:

• Through a three-stage validation such as Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram Sabha, and geo-tagging.