Context

• A recent study highlights that the 2022 increase in Earth’s energy imbalance was largely driven by a shift from a “triple-dip” La Niña to a warm El Niño, combined with long-term climate change.

Earth’s Energy Imbalance Study

• Earth’s Energy Imbalance (EEI) refers to the difference between incoming solar radiation and outgoing heat energy. When more heat is trapped than emitted, global temperatures rise.
  • The 2022 increase in EEI explains the sharp global temperature spike since early 2023.
• The “Triple Dip” Impact: During a La Niña, warm water remains deeper in the ocean, resulting in a cooler surface that emits less energy back into space.
  • This unusual three-year cooling cycle acted like a “lid” that, once removed during the transition to El Niño, allowed trapped heat to surge upward.
• During 2020 to 2023, the world experienced three consecutive La Niña years without an intervening El Niño.

What is ENSO? (El Niño–Southern Oscillation)

• ENSO is a periodic fluctuation in sea surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. It has two opposite phases: El Niño and La Niña.
• ENSO influences Indian Monsoon, cyclone patterns, droughts and floods and global temperature variability.

What is El Nino?

• El Niño is the warming of seawater in the central-east Equatorial Pacific that occurs every few years. 
• During El Niño, surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific rise, and trade winds, east-west winds that blow near the Equator, weaken. 
• Impact: El Niño causes dry, warm winters in the Northern U.S. and Canada and increases the risk of flooding in the U.S. gulf coast and southeastern U.S.
  • It also brings drought to Indonesia and Australia.

What is La Nina?

• La Niña is the opposite of El Niño. La Niña witnesses cooler than average sea surface temperature (SST) in the equatorial Pacific region.
  • Trade winds are stronger than usual, pushing warmer water towards Asia.
• Impact: This leads to drier conditions in the Southern U.S., and heavy rainfall in Canada. It  has also been associated with heavy floods in Australia.

How does it affect the Indian Monsoon?

• In El Niño years, India faces warmer temperatures and less rainfall, causing droughts in some regions.
  • This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
  • The El Nino phenomenon led to 1.4% decrease in food grain production for the 2023-24 (July-June) crop year.
• La Niña brings cooler sea surface temperatures, leading to increased rainfall in certain parts of India. 

Source: TH

In News

• Recently, it has been observed that Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)  technologies are essential for achieving India’s net-zero emissions targets, particularly for hard-to-abate sectors like cement.

Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) 

• It refers to a set of technologies that capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources or directly from the air and convert them into useful products.
• It  removes carbon from the atmosphere and puts it into the economy as inputs for fuels, chemicals, building materials, or polymers.
• Unlike carbon capture and storage, where captured CO2 is permanently stored underground rather than reused, CCU uses up the captured carbon.

Need in India 

• India has consistently been the world’s third-largest emitter of CO2, with emissions driven largely by power generation, cement, steel, and chemicals.
• While renewable energy may reduce future emissions, many industrial processes are inherently carbon-intensive and difficult to decarbonise. 
• CCU offers a pathway to reduce emissions from these “hard-to-abate” sectors while simultaneously creating new industrial value chains.
• It also aligns with India’s net-zero target for 2070 and its push to build a circular, low-carbon economy.

Progress and Initiatives 

• India has begun supporting CCU through research funding from the Department of Science and Technology which has created a specific research and development roadmap for these technologies.
• The Union Budget 2026-27 has announced a Rs 20,000-crore scheme to scale up carbon capture, storage and utilisation across five high-emitting industrial sectors.
  • The move aims to move CCUS from pilot projects to policy-backed deployment as part of India’s net-zero by 2070 commitment.
• The draft 2030 roadmap for Carbon Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) presented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural gas has identified projects that can be used for CCUS purposes. 
• In the private sector, Ambuja Cements (Adani Group) is working on an Indo-Swedish CCU pilot with IIT Bombay to convert captured CO2 into fuels and materials. 
• JK Cement is collaborating on a CCU testbed to capture CO2 for applications such as lightweight concrete blocks and olefins. 
• Organic Recycling Systems Limited (ORSL) is leading India’s first pilot-scale Bio-CCU platform, valorising CO2 from biogas streams into bio-alcohols and specialty chemicals.

Key risks in scaling CCU (Carbon Capture and Utilization) in India

• High Costs – Capturing and converting CO2 is energy-intensive, making CCU products expensive compared to fossil-based alternatives.
• Infrastructure Gaps – Effective CCU requires co-located industrial clusters, CO2 transport networks, and integration with downstream manufacturing, which are unevenly developed.
• Regulatory and Market Uncertainty – Lack of standards, certification, and clear market signals discourages investment and limits demand for CO2-derived products.

Conclusion 

• CCUS technologies are essential for hard-to-decarbonize industries like steel and cement, where most CO2 comes from production processes rather than fuel use.
• The ?20,000 crore budget allocation aims to develop CCUS applications in power, steel, cement, refineries, and chemicals, helping reduce emissions
• India has taken positive steps through the development of roadmaps to achieving CCU, and their appropriate implementation will be necessary for achieving India’s goals.

Source :TH

Context

• The Union Minister of Science and Technology, at the AI4Agri 2026 Summit in Mumbai said that India’s next agricultural revolution will be driven by artificial intelligence.

How is AI in Agriculture Critical for India?

• Indian agriculture faces structural constraints such as fragmented landholdings, climate variability, price volatility, and low productivity.
• Climate change has increased the frequency of extreme weather events, making predictive technologies essential.
• Small and marginal farmers (over 85% of total farmers) require affordable, data-driven advisory systems.
• Efficient risk management and market access are necessary to enhance farmer incomes in line with national development goals.

Role of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

• Soil Health Diagnostics: AI uses deep learning and image recognition to monitor soil health by analysing signals from satellite imagery, drone-based observations, and farm-level images.
• Farm Mechanisation Efficiency: AI technologies, such as machine learning, drone applications, and remote sensing, are revolutionizing farming efficiency.
  • In horticulture, where crops require continuous monitoring across multiple growth stages, AI-based systems offer round-the-clock surveillance of high-value crops. 
• Price Realisation for Farmers: AI-driven predictive analytics leverage large datasets from platforms such as e-NAM, AGMARKET, the Agricultural Census, and the Soil Health Card programme to assess price movements, arrival trends, and regional demand patterns.
• Climate-Smart Agriculture: AI can predict weather patterns and provide early warnings for extreme weather events, enabling farmers to take preventive measures.
  • Integration with platforms like WINDS (Weather Information and Network Data System) strengthens risk assessment.

Government Initiatives in AI-Driven Agriculture

• Kisan e-Mitra, launched in 2023, is a voice-enabled, AI-powered chatbot designed to support farmers by answering queries on key government schemes, including PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, the Kisan Credit Card, and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. 
  • The platform operates in 11 regional languages and currently addresses over 8,000 farmer queries each day.
• The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS), launched in 2024, utilises AI and Machine Learning (ML) to enable early detection of pest infestations and crop diseases.
• The Union Budget 2026-27 proposed Bharat-VISTAAR, a multilingual AI tool to integrate the AgriStack portals and the ICAR package with AI systems.
  • AgriStack is a core component of the Digital Agriculture Mission, providing farmers with a unique digital identity (Farmer ID) linked to land records, livestock ownership, crops cultivated, and benefits availed, enabling secure identification and access to agricultural services.
  • The ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) package refers to scientific, evidence-based farming practices and crop management advice.
• AI-Enabled Crop Insurance:
  • CROPIC (Collection of Real-Time Observations and Photographs of Crops) uses geotagged, time-stamped images uploaded via mobile apps, enhancing transparency in crop damage assessment.
  • YES-TECH (Yield Estimation System based on Technology) uses remote sensing and AI analytics for scientific yield estimation.
• The Krishi Decision Support System (KDSS) integrates data from multiple sources, to generate comprehensive analytical outputs such as digital crop maps, soil maps, yield estimates, and drought and flood monitoring assessments.

Challenges in AI Adoption in Indian Agriculture

• Rural Connectivity Gaps: Small and marginal farmers often lack access to smartphones, IoT devices, or digital infrastructure, creating an access asymmetry.
  • Power supply disruptions in rural areas further constrain the effective use of AI-enabled devices.
• Data Privacy: AI systems rely on large datasets including land records, crop patterns, financial details, and yield data collected under platforms like AgriStack.
  • Absence of a clearly defined farmer-centric data ownership framework may lead to misuse or commercial exploitation of farm-level data.
• High Cost of Advanced Technologies: Precision agriculture tools such as drones, AI-based sensors, robotics, and automated machinery involve high initial capital investment.
  • Small landholdings (average size ~1–1.2 hectares) reduce economies of scale, making individual adoption financially unviable.

Way Ahead

• Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform Indian agriculture from a risk-prone livelihood into a data-driven, resilient, and profitable enterprise. 
• If supported by inclusive policies, robust infrastructure, and farmer-centric implementation, AI could usher in a new agricultural revolution comparable in impact to the Green Revolution, this time powered not by seeds and fertilizers, but by data and intelligence.

Source: PIB

Context

• The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry said that India now enjoys preferential trade access to nearly two-thirds of global trade through a series of free trade agreements.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

• FTAs are arrangements between two or more countries or trading blocs that primarily agree to reduce or eliminate customs tariff and non tariff barriers on substantial trade between them.
  • They can cover both goods and services. It also addresses issues such as investment, mobility of professionals, and regulatory cooperation.
• India uses different terms to denote the scope and depth of trade agreements.
  • CECA/CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation/Partnership Agreement): Covers goods, services, investment, intellectual property, and regulatory issues.
  • ECTA (Economic Cooperation & Trade Agreement)
  • TEPA (Trade & Economic Partnership Agreement)
  • CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement)
• India has secured preferential tariff access to markets covering roughly 70% of global GDP and trade flows. India now has trade arrangements with 38 high-income economies, many complementary to its export strengths.

Major FTAs signed in recent years

• India–UAE CEPA ( 2022): The pact opened 99% of tariff lines (zero-duty on nearly all consumer and industrial exports) and expanded services and manpower mobility.
• India–Australia ECTA ( 2022): The deal eliminates tariffs on all Australian exports to India and on the entire range of Indian exports.
• India–EFTA TEPA (2024): The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the four EFTA countries (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) was signed in 2024 and enters force in 2025.
• India–UK CETA (2025): It grants duty-free access to nearly 99% of India’s exports to Britain.
• India–Oman CEPA ( 2025): Oman offered zero-duty on 98.08% of its tariff lines, covering 99.38% of India’s exports to Oman.
• Índia–EU FTA (2026): Under the pact, 97% of EU tariff lines will be covered (about 99.5% of trade value), with India eliminating tariffs on 70.4% of tariff lines at entry.
  • The EU agreement alone covers markets responsible for about one-third of global trade.

ftas under negotiation

• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Negotiations formally launched in February 2026 with the Gulf Cooperation Council. The bloc includes Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
• Israel: India and Israel have initiated FTA negotiations, with the first round already held.
• Chile: Terms of Reference signed in 2025 to launch negotiations with Chile.
• Canada: Negotiations with Canada have been revived after earlier disruptions.

Significance of India’s Expanding FTA Network

• Accelerated Export Growth: FTAs reduce or eliminate import duties in partner countries, making Indian goods more price-competitive.
• Integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs): FTAs facilitate participation in cross-border production networks by lowering input costs and simplifying trade rules.
  • Indian firms can import intermediate goods at lower tariffs and export finished products competitively.
• Gains Labour-Intensive Sectors: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) account for a large share of India’s exports.
  • FTAs open new markets for products like handicrafts, textiles, leather goods, processed food, and light engineering items.
• Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): FTAs improve investor confidence by ensuring stable market access and predictable trade rules.
  • Companies invest in India to use it as an export base to partner countries, facilitating technology transfer, skill development, and capital inflows.

Concerns with FTAs

• Risk of Trade Imbalances: Past FTAs have, in some cases, led to imports rising faster than exports, widening the trade deficit.
  • For instance, India’s trade deficit with ASEAN expanded significantly after tariff reductions under the 2010 Goods Agreement.
• Competitive Pressure on Domestic Industries: Domestic industries often fear being outcompeted by cheaper or technologically superior foreign goods.
  • Sectors such as dairy, agriculture, automobiles, steel, and electronics are particularly sensitive in FTA negotiations.

Way Ahead

• India’s expanding FTA network marks a decisive shift toward deeper global economic integration. By securing preferential access to markets, India is positioning itself as a major export hub and supply-chain partner. 
• If complemented by domestic reforms and industry preparedness, these agreements can significantly advance India’s goal of becoming a leading global trading power and achieving a trillion-dollar export economy.

Source: DD News

Context

• Recently, the 16th Finance Commission (FC) report, tabled in Parliament, has significantly enhanced the share of grants to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), signalling a structural shift in India’s fiscal federalism in favour of urban governance.

Key Highlights of the 16th FC For ULBs

• Increased Share for Urban Local Bodies: Share of grants to ULBs increased to 45%; (36% in 15th FC, & 26% in 13th FC).
• Sharp Rise in Absolute Allocation: Recommended grants to ULBs: ?3.56 lakh crore;

• More than double the 15th FC’s ?1.55 lakh crore;
• Nearly 15 times higher than the 13th FC allocation;
• It marks the largest ever fiscal support to urban governance in India.

Rationale Behind Increasing Share in 16th FC

• Cities As Growth Pole: Cities contribute nearly two-thirds of India’s GDP, making them engines of economic growth.
  • India adds millions to its urban population annually due to migration and natural growth.
• Rising Urbanisation & Growing Urban Population: Urbanisation in India is steadily increasing, demanding higher fiscal capacity at the city level.
  • Census 2011: 31% population urban;
  • Projected urbanisation by 2031: 41%
  • Global comparison: China (45%); Indonesia (54%); and Brazil (87%)
• Data Gaps in Urbanisation: A World Bank report (2015) suggested up to 78% of the population living in cities and urban clusters.
  • Lack of credible and updated data (next Census awaited) affects policy planning and fiscal allocations.
  • The 16th FC’s higher allocation pre-emptively addresses future urban growth, even if Census 2027 shows urbanisation at higher levels (e.g., 48%).

Major Urban Challenges & Concerns

• Uneven Distribution Across States: The grants are distributed based on a population-based formula, leading to significant inter-state variation.
  • Major Gainers: Kerala (Over 400% increase); and Maharashtra (Over 300% increase);
  • Limited Gains / Reductions: Odisha (13% increase); Bihar (8% decrease);
  • It reflects demographic changes and formula-based allocation rather than uniform distribution.

• Water Supply & Sanitation: Intermittent water supply in most cities; high Non-Revenue Water (NRW) losses; and sewage treatment gaps.
• Urban Housing & Slums: ~65 million people living in slums (2011 Census); rapid expansion of informal settlements; and inadequate affordable housing.
• Urban Transport & Congestion: Traffic congestion in Tier-1 & Tier-2 cities; rising air pollution; and weak public transport integration.
• Weak Finances of ULBs: Limited own-source revenue, heavy dependence on state transfers, poor property tax coverage, and weak municipal bond market.
• Weak Implementation of 74th Constitutional Amendment: Many States have not fully devolved the 18 functions listed in the Twelfth Schedule.
  • State governments retain control over urban planning, water supply boards, and development authorities.
  • Capacity Deficit: Shortage of trained urban planners, limited digital governance integration, and poor data systems.
• Climate Vulnerability: Urban flooding (e.g., Chennai, Bengaluru), heat waves, and coastal vulnerability.

Implications For Urban Governance

• Strengthening the Third Tier: Enhances fiscal autonomy of ULBs, and improves ability to provide basic services (water, sanitation, waste management); urban infrastructure; and public health and mobility.
• Reduced Fiscal Stress Post-Census: ULBs will not face sudden resource gaps due to already enhanced allocation, if future Census data shows higher urbanisation.
• Deepening Fiscal Federalism: It reflects shift towards recognising urban India as a key growth driver. It aligns with goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Urban reforms under AMRUT, Smart Cities Mission.

Urban Reforms and Flagship Missions

• Smart Cities Mission (2015): Key objectives are area-based development, ICT-enabled governance, and sustainable infrastructure.
• AMRUT: Key focus areas are water supply, sewerage, and urban green spaces.
• Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban): Key achievements are Open Defecation Free (ODF) certification, and solid waste management reforms.
• PM SVANidhi: It supports street vendors with micro-credit, and demonstrates integration of urban governance with social protection frameworks.

Citizen Participation and Digital Governance

• Recent reforms emphasize e-governance portals, online grievance redressal, GIS-based property tax systems, and participatory budgeting (Pune model).
• MoHUA promotes digital dashboards and open data platforms.

Source: IE

Context

• According to the new series, the gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to grow at 7.6% during the current fiscal.

About

• The new series has revised downward the growth for 2023-24 to 7.2% from the 9.2% estimated in the old series, and has revised upward the growth for 2024-25 to 7.1% from the earlier estimate of 6.5%.
• The base year for GDP Estimates has been revised from 2011–12 to 2022–23 to better reflect India’s evolving economic structure.
• The revised GDP series strengthens estimation by integrating new, improved data sources.

How GDP is Calculated?

• India’s GDP is calculated using two methods: the factor cost method and the expenditure method.
  • The factor cost method evaluates performance across eight industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services.
  • The expenditure method examines spending in areas like household consumption and government costs to assess economic performance.
• The Central Statistics Office under India’s Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation manages GDP data collection.
• India’s GDP data is released quarterly with a two-month lag and annually on May 31.
• Contribution of Sectors: The largest contributor to India’s GDP is the services sector, which accounts for 61.5% of GDP.
  • The next largest contributor was the industrial sector (23%) and then the agriculture sector (15.4%).

What is Base Year?

• A base year is a benchmark year used for comparison in economic and statistical calculations. 
• It provides a reference point against which current values of indicators like GDP, CPI, and IIP are measured to track real changes over time.
• Significance: 
  • It allows us to remove the effect of inflation and see real growth.
  • Ensures that the data reflects the current structure of the economy, consumption patterns, and prices.

Concerns with India’s Statistical Architecture

• GDP Methodology System: India’s GDP calculation method is globally accepted but the real problem is weak and outdated supporting statistical systems.
• Manufacturing Data Distortion: Corporate manufacturing is measured well and is performing strongly but Informal manufacturing is poorly measured causing discrepancy in data.
• Growing GDP Discrepancies: The gap between production-side and expenditure-side data in GDP is widening. It is caused by uneven data quality and outdated weights.
• Gap in GVA and IIP: IIP tracks physical output, not value added; this divergence reflects measurement limits, not economic slowdown.
• IMF Rating Paradox: India scores well on GDP methods but poorly on overall statistical quality. It shows the gap between good methodology and weak data ecosystem.
• Need for Statistical Modernisation: The economy has evolved faster than its statistical tools, the current system cannot fully capture structural change.

2026 Base-Year Revision as an Opportunity

• Shift away from commodity-flow approach: It will move away from the commodity-flow method for estimating consumption across most items.
  • Under the earlier framework, fixed ratios derived from a 2011–12 study were used to allocate commodities between intermediate consumption, final consumption and other uses.
  • The revised system instead uses dynamic rates and ratios, allowing estimates to evolve over time as consumption patterns change. 
• Elimination of ‘Discrepancies’: MoSPI plans to integrate Supply and Use Tables (SUTs) directly into annual GDP compilation.
  • Supply and use tables show how different goods and services are supplied by domestic industries and imports and how they are distributed between different intermediate or final uses, including exports. 
  • This approach aims to limit discrepancies in early estimates and fully eliminate them in final estimates.
• Use of Digital and Administrative Data: Increased reliance on datasets such as;
  • e-Vahan (vehicle registrations).
  • GST and other administrative records.
• Updated Surveys as Data Backbone: Key surveys feeding into the new series include;
  • Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022–23 and 2023–24.
  • Updated surveys of formal and informal enterprises.
  • These are expected to offer more granular insights into consumption behaviour and production activity than earlier benchmarks.
• Sectoral Coverage of Revised Framework: The revised quarterly compilation framework has been aligned more closely with the Annual National Accounts methodology in terms of sectoral classification, deflation strategies, and estimation practices.
  • Inclusion of Hired Domestic Workers in GDP Estimation.
  • The new series includes unincorporated enterprises, self-employed individuals and informal workers.

Do You Know?

• India compiles its GDP estimates in line with the 2008 System of National Accounts (SNA 2008).
  • It is the internationally accepted statistical framework.
• With the United Nations Statistical Divisiontransitioning to SNA 2025- expected to be adopted globally around 2029–30- India intends to align with the updated standard in its next base year revision.

Way Ahead

• The revision of the GDP base year to 2022–23 marks a significant step in aligning India’s national accounts with the realities of a rapidly transforming economy. 
• The new series provides a more accurate, consistent and comprehensive measure of economic activity.
• By updating the base year, and eliminating discrepancies the new framework is better aligned with the realities of a rapidly formalising and digitising economy.

Source: TH

In News

• The 2026–27 Union Budget announced an integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor with a key node at Durgapur, creating modern, globally competitive industrial hubs and greenfield investment regions.
  • 11 industrial corridors are planned across the country, spanning North–South and East–West belts.

Industrial Corridors

• They  are linear development zones that connect major economic centres through an integrated network of roads, railways, ports, and airports. 
• Industrial corridors play a fundamental role in metamorphosing regional economies by creating environments where industries can operate efficiently, sustainably, and competitively. 

Features  

• Promotion of accelerated industrial growth by strengthening the link between industry and core infrastructure.
• Creation of globally comparable infrastructure along a defined pathway, offering a competitive and business-friendly environment.
• Facilitation of economic agglomeration and industrial clustering, helping regions maximise their growth potential.
• Optimal utilisation of regional strengths through focused investments and planned industrial development.
• Development along major transport arteries, particularly rail trunk routes, ensuring strong connectivity for efficient movement of freight and the public.

Importance 

• Integrated infrastructure strengthens industrial efficiency: Multimodal transport networks, reliable utilities, and ICT-enabled services create a unified ecosystem that supports efficient industrial operations and the movement of goods.
• Plug-and-play ecosystems accelerate business readiness: Ready-to-use facilities, assured utilities, and streamlined approvals reduce setup time, helping industries begin operations quickly and competitively.
• Sustainability initiatives ensure responsible growth: Renewable energy adoption, waste recycling systems, and green building norms help industries expand while limiting environmental impact.
• Skill development initiatives encourage regional employment: Training programmes and partnerships with educational institutions build a skilled workforce, generating jobs and strengthening local economies.
• Special Economic Zones attract investment and promote exports: SEZs offer tax incentives and regulatory advantages that draw foreign investment and enhance India’s position in global value chains.
• Public-Private Partnerships improve development outcomes: Cooperative models between government and industry ensure better planning, efficient resource use, and effective management.
• Walk-to-work planning elevates quality of life and productivity: Reduced commuting, lower pollution, pedestrian-friendly layouts, and green spaces support healthier lifestyles and more productive urban environments, making industrial cities attractive to investors and workers alike.

Governments steps 

• The Government of India is developing multiple Industrial Corridor Projects under the National Industrial Corridor Programme (NICDP), guided by the PM GatiShakti framework to ensure coordinated, multimodal connectivity for major economic zones.
• The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited (NICDC), previously known as Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited (DMICDC), was incorporated in January 2008 for the development, coordination, and implementation of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) by the Government of India.

Source :PIB

Context

• The International Energy Agency (IEA) welcomed the progress being made on India’s request for full membership of the organisation.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) 

• Established: In 1974.
• The IEA’s founding members were Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and the United States.
• Reason: It was created when major oil-exporting countries drastically reduced oil supplies, causing severe economic disruptions in industrialized nations.
• Mandate: IEA’s original mandate was to ensure that oil supplies were kept stable, and potential disruptions in future were anticipated and prevented through timely action.
  • It also developed an elaborate mechanism to deal with oil emergencies in future, making it mandatory for every member country to maintain certain minimum strategic stocks of oil. 
• Members: The membership was kept open only for OECD countries.
  • There are now 33 full members with Colombia being inducted as 33rd members recently.
• Associate Members: In 2015, IEA opened the doors for non-OECD countries to become associate members.
  • The associate members participate in the policy discussions and activities, but do not have decision-making rights. 
  • India became an associate member in 2017. There are 13 associate members right now.

Shift in the Role of IEA

• Expansion Beyond Oil Security: It has moved from a narrow focus on oil supply security to covering all major energy sources including gas, coal, nuclear and renewables.
• Climate Change and Energy Transition: Decarbonisation, net-zero pathways and clean energy transitions have become central to its mandate.
• Critical Minerals Focus: The IEA has launched a Critical Minerals Programme to address supply chain risks linked to renewable energy and electric mobility.
• Rise of Emerging Economies: The global energy landscape has shifted with emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil becoming major energy producers and consumers.
• Broader Global Representation: While IEA members once accounted for over 60% of global energy demand, their share declined to about 40% before expanding through associate members, and the broader IEA now represents nearly 80% of global energy demand.

India’s quest for membership

• India’s Bid for Full Membership: India formally submitted its request for full membership to the IEA in 2023 and has been actively pursuing this objective in recent years.
• Desire for Decision-Making Role: India seeks full membership primarily to participate in the IEA’s decision-making processes, as the agency has become increasingly influential in shaping global energy policies, energy transition pathways, and climate-related strategies.
• IEA as a Knowledge and Policy Platform: The IEA has evolved into a key global knowledge platform on clean energy technologies, energy transitions and climate change, and it maintains one of the most reliable and comprehensive global energy databases.

Way Ahead

• Granting India full membership would require amendments to the IEA’s founding framework, since membership has so far been limited to members of the OECD.
  • India has shown no inclination to seek OECD membership, making changes to eligibility criteria or a legal amendment necessary.
• The IEA has strongly supported India’s bid, recognising it as the world’s most populous country and a future driver of global energy demand growth.
• IEA’s engagement with India has also increased significantly in recent years, engagement has deepened through India-focused reports.

Source: IE

Context

• Recently, the Union Finance Minister has launched the National Monetisation Pipeline 2.0 (NMP 2.0), targeting ?16.72 lakh crore through asset monetisation over the period 2025–26 to 2029–30.

About

• National Monetisation Pipeline 2.0 (NMP 2.0) launched by the Union Finance Minister, builds on the original NMP (2021-2025) by outlining a ?16.72 lakh crore roadmap for FY 2026-2030. 
• It targets operational “brownfield” public assets like highways and railways to unlock value through private investment, funding new greenfield infrastructure without raising fresh debt or taxes. 
• Developed by NITI Aayog with line ministries, it’s guided by the Ministry of Finance and monitored by the Core Group of Secretaries on Asset Monetisation (CGAM), chaired by the Cabinet Secretary.

Key Objectives

• Recycle existing assets to mobilize ?5.8 lakh crore in private funds for capex.
• Boost private sector visibility via PPPs, InvITs (Infrastructure Investment Trusts), cash flow securitization, and strategic sales.
• Standardize processes from NMP 1.0 lessons, ensuring time-bound execution and proceeds routed to Consolidated Fund of India, PSUs, or states.

Major Sectoral Allocation

• Highways, MMLPs, Ropeways: ?4.42 lakh crore
• Power: ?2.77 lakh crore
• Ports: ?2.64 lakh crore
• Railways: ?2.62 lakh crore
• Coal: ?2.16 lakh crore
• Mines: ?1 lakh crore
• Capital Recycling Model: Asset monetisation follows the principle of ‘Asset Recycling’:
  • Monetise operational brownfield assets;
  • Use proceeds to fund greenfield infrastructure;
  • It reduces fiscal burden, and public debt pressure.
• Revenue Distribution: Proceeds are expected to flow primarily into Consolidated Fund of India, Direct private investment, PSU/Port Authority allocations, and State Consolidated Funds.

Benefits of NMP 2.0

• Capital Recycling: Unlocks value from brownfield assets and reinvests proceeds into new (greenfield) infrastructure projects without increasing public debt.
• Fiscal Consolidation: Reduces pressure on government borrowing and supports better management of the fiscal deficit.
• Enhanced Private Participation (PPP Boost): Deepens Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), improving efficiency, innovation, and risk-sharing in infrastructure development.
• Attraction of Long-Term Institutional Capital: Draws pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and global investors into Indian infrastructure.
• Improved Asset Efficiency: Professional management by private players enhances operational efficiency and service quality.
• Development of Financial Markets: Promotes instruments like InvITs and TOT models, broadening infrastructure as an asset class.
• Boost to Logistics & Competitiveness: Monetisation of highways, ports, railways, and logistics parks strengthens supply chains and reduces transaction costs.
• Support to Viksit Bharat Vision: Accelerates infrastructure-led growth essential for achieving developed nation status by 2047.
• Job Creation & Multiplier Effect: Infrastructure expansion generates direct and indirect employment.
• Citizen Participation: Public InvITs allow retail investors to participate in infrastructure growth.

Challenges Ahead of NMP 2.0

• Asset Valuation Concerns: Risk of undervaluation of public assets. Lack of transparent and standardized valuation mechanisms.
• Political & Public Opposition Perception of ‘privatisation by stealth’. Resistance from trade unions and civil society.
• Regulatory & Policy Uncertainty: Frequent policy changes can deter long-term investors. Need for strong dispute resolution mechanisms in PPP contracts.
• Risk Allocation Issues: Improper risk-sharing between government and private players. Past PPP failures (e.g., traffic overestimation in highways) remain cautionary lessons.

Source: IE

Context

• Recent tightening of U.S. immigration policy has created uncertainty for highly skilled foreign workers, prompting the government to attract its global talent back through targeted initiatives and better opportunities.

India’s Dominance in High-Skill Migration to the U.S.

• Indian nationals accounted for nearly 71% of H-1B approvals in FY2024, reflecting overwhelming dependence on this channel for high-skill mobility.
• A large proportion of beneficiaries possess advanced degrees, indicating that migration involves highly trained human capital.
• The share of master’s degree holders has steadily increased over the decades, demonstrating the rising knowledge intensity of Indian migration.
• Concentration in sectors such as information technology, finance, engineering, and research makes Indian professionals central to U.S. innovation systems.

Emerging Reverse Migration Trends

• Rising visa costs and uncertainty surrounding the H-1B programme have led many skilled Indians to reconsider long-term settlement abroad.
• Reduced research funding, scholarships, and hiring support at several foreign universities have weakened traditional pathways for overseas academic and professional careers.
• Indian graduates from elite international institutions are increasingly exploring employment opportunities within India due to improving domestic prospects.
• Expanding opportunities in India’s technology sector, startup ecosystem, and Global Capability Centres are making return migration more attractive than before.

India’s Innovation Ecosystem

• Strengths:
  • India hosts over 1,600 Global Capability Centres employing millions of professionals.
  • The startup ecosystem is among the world’s largest and continues to expand across sectors.
  • Digital public infrastructure and a large domestic market create fertile ground for innovation.
• Weakness:
  • India’s R&D expenditure remains around 0.64% of GDP, far below the U.S. (3.47%), China (2.41%), and Israel (5.71%).
  • Private sector participation in research funding is limited.
  • High-technology manufacturing and deep-tech sectors remain underdeveloped.
  • Weak industry-academia collaboration constrains commercialization of research.

Government Initiatives to Re-engage Overseas Talent

• Global Access to Talent from India (GATI) seeks to facilitate international mobility, collaboration, and skill exchange.
• eMigrate V2.0 aims to create a digital ecosystem for monitoring overseas employment and protecting migrant workers.
• The VAJRA (Visiting Advanced Joint Research) scheme is a fellowship program that offers short-term positions for overseas scientists, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), to work in Indian research institutions. 
• Know India Programme strengthens engagement with diaspora youth and encourages long-term connection with India’s development trajectory.
• SWADES (Skilled Workers Arrival Database for Employment Support): The initiative aims to create a database of qualified citizens returning from abroad.
  • It maps the skills of returning talent to fill vacancies in Indian and foreign companies operating within India.

Way Ahead

• Global visa uncertainty has created a rare strategic window for India to reclaim its highly skilled diaspora. However, attracting talent is only the first step. Long-term retention requires improvements in urban livability, research opportunities, and economic dynamism. 
• If supported by comprehensive reforms, returning professionals can accelerate India’s transition to an innovation-driven economy. Otherwise, the opportunity may dissipate as talent seeks alternative destinations, perpetuating the cycle of brain drain.

Source: TH

Context

• For the Indian population, the Global Capability Centres (GCCs) boom has catalysed high-value employment and regional development.

What are Global Capability Centres?

• Global In-house Centres or Captives (GICs) or Global Capability Centres (GCCs), are mainly offshore centres established by global level firms/MNCs to provide various services to their parent organisations. 
• These centres operate as internal organisations within the global corporate structure, providing specialised solutions such as IT services, Research and Development (R&D), customer support and other business tasks. 
• GCCs have evolved from being cost-saving centres that were largely set up to gain from lower labour costs to becoming strategic hubs that encourage innovation and lead to value creation, over the past couple of decades.

India’s GCC Landscape

• India already hosts more than 1,800 GCCs employing 2.16 million professionals and contributing about $68 billion in direct gross value addition (GVA), which roughly works out as 1.8% of GDP.
• According to The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) framework, by 2030 the number of centres could rise to 5,000, generating $154–199 billion in direct GVA. 
  • Including indirect and induced effects, the overall impact could touch $470–600 billion.

• Employment potential: By 2030, it could translate into 20–25 million jobs, including 4–5 million high-quality direct roles in areas such as artificial intelligence, engineering R&D, cybersecurity and digital platforms.

Drivers of GCC Growth in India

• Talent Hub: India is known globally for its diverse pool of talent with expertise in domains ranging from IT, engineering, analytics, and finance.
  • The availability of a skilled workforce has enabled GCCs to implement high-value and complex projects in India.
• Technological innovations: ML, AI, Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain are some of the advanced technologies that have been adapted rapidly.
  • This in turn has enabled GCCs in India to deliver innovative solutions and digitally transform their parent companies.
• Strategically focused: From being known as a cost-saving centre to becoming a strategic hub, over the years, MNCs have recognised the potential of setting up GCCs in India.
  • These centres are now viewed as a strategic asset that enables businesses to drive growth, improve operational efficiency and gain competitive advantages.
• Government support: Various reforms of the Indian government, such as the Digital India Campaign aimed at enabling ease of doing business, have contributed to making a favourable environment in India for the growth of GCCs.

Challenges

• Widening Talent Gap: Although India produces millions of engineers, the demand for niche skills in AI security, cloud architecture and quantum-resistant cryptography vastly outstrips the supply.
  • This has triggered a fierce war for talent, leading to wage inflation that could eventually erode the value proposition of multinational corporations (MNC).
• Cyber Attacks: India-based centres now handle 13.7% of global cyber-attack incidents, the threat of state-sponsored espionage and intellectual property theft has made cybersecurity the most expensive operational mandate for modern GCCs.
• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Global Minimum Tax (Pillar Two): The introduction of the OECD’s Global Minimum Tax (Pillar Two) reduces the tax advantages that many multinational companies earlier enjoyed.
  • With a minimum global tax rate of 15%, and ongoing concerns over India’s 24% Safe Harbour markup for software R&D, companies are now more worried about tax certainty and fiscal stability.
• Geopolitical Volatility: Geopolitical volatility and protectionism pose long-term risks to investment.
  • As of early 2026, global trade professionals are increasingly wary of United States tariff volatility and reshoring policies that encourage MNCs to return critical data operations to their home markets.
• Digital Sovereignty: While India remains an attractive destination, owing to its scale, any shift toward digital sovereignty in western nations could slow the pace of new GCC setups. 

Way Ahead

• To secure India’s position as the world’s innovation capital, policymakers must transition from regulators to active facilitators. 
  • The National GCC Policy Framework, proposed in the 2026-27 Budget cycle, is a step in the right direction, but execution is the key. 
  • A national framework will be formulated as guidance to states for promoting Global Capability Centres in emerging tier 2 cities. 
• The government should introduce a “Single-Window Clearance” system specifically for GCCs to streamline the establishment of legal entities. 
• Additionally, rationalising transfer pricing norms and providing tax safe harbours for R&D-intensive operations will provide the fiscal certainty that global boards demand. 

Conclusion

• By fostering deeper industry-academia collaborations to upskill the workforce in deep tech and offering capital subsidies for Tier-II expansion, India can ensure that its GCC revolution remains sustainable for the next decade.

Source: TH

Context

• Recent controversies surrounding electoral rolls, appointment procedures, and institutional autonomy have raised concerns about the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Concerns Regarding Election Commission

• Electoral Roll Manipulation: Concerns have been raised regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists.
  • Reports of deletion of large numbers of voters, particularly from certain regions, have sparked fears of disenfranchisement.
• Controversy Over Appointment Process: The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Office and Terms of Office) Act, 2023 altered the selection mechanism.
  • It is argued that exclusion of the judiciary from the selection committee may increase executive influence. This issue has been challenged in court and remains a matter of constitutional debate.

Article 324 of Constitution

• Article 324 of the Constitution states that the Election Commission will comprise the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number of Election Commissioners (ECs), as the President may decide.  
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for managing the preparation of electoral rolls and conducting elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.  
• The Constitution specifies that the President will appoint the CEC and ECs, subject to the provisions of an Act of Parliament.

Key Features of the CEs and ECs Appointment Act, 2023

• It replaces the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991. 
• Election Commission:  The Election Commission will consist of a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (ECs).  The President will periodically fix the number of ECs.
• Appointment of the Commission: The Commission will be appointed by the President, upon the recommendation of the Selection Committee.
  • The Selection Committee will comprise the Prime Minister, Cabinet Minister, and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha (or leader of the single largest opposition party).   
  • A Search Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary will suggest five names to the Selection Committee.  
  • The Selection Committee may consider any person other than those suggested by the Search Committee.
• Term and reappointment:  Members of the Election Commission will hold office for six years, or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
  • Members of the Commission cannot be re-appointed.  
  • If an EC is appointed as a CEC, the overall period of the term may not be more than six years.
• Salary and pension: The salary, allowances, and other conditions of service of the CEC and ECs will be equivalent to that of the Cabinet Secretary. 
• Removal: The CEC may be removed in the same manner and on the same grounds as a Supreme Court Judge.
  • ECs may be removed only upon the recommendation of the CEC.

Judicial Interventions

• Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain (1975): The Supreme Court of India held that free and fair elections are part of the Basic Structure of the Constitution.
• T. N. Seshan vs Union of India (1995): It validated the multi-member nature of the Commission and clarified that the CEC is “first among equals,” not an absolute authority.
• Vineet Narain vs Union of India (1997): It clarified procedural safeguards relating to removal and functioning of independent institutions.
• Anoop Baranwal vs Union of India (2023): Recommended inclusion of the Chief Justice of India in the selection committee for Election Commissioners until Parliament enacted a law.

Major committees on electoral reforms

• Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990): It recommended stringent steps to curb booth capturing, including deployment of central forces and provision for re-polls where malpractice occurred.
• Indrajit Gupta Committee (1998): It examined the growing role of money power in elections and concluded that state funding was necessary to ensure a level playing field but such funding should be provided in kind rather than cash to prevent misuse.
  • The committee also suggested that only recognised national and state parties should be eligible for such support.
• Law Commission of India: It recommended that candidates should not be allowed to contest from more than one constituency to avoid unnecessary by-elections and public expenditure.
  • The report also emphasised the need for internal democracy within political parties, transparency in political funding, and reforms to reduce defections and instability in coalition politics.

Way Ahead

• The appointment process of Election Commissioners should be made more broad-based to enhance public confidence in the Commission’s neutrality.
• Reforms in political funding, including greater disclosure of donations, are necessary to reduce undue influence of wealth.
• Continued improvement in election management systems, including secure electronic processes, can increase efficiency and trust. Independent audits and verification mechanisms should accompany technological adoption to address public concerns.

Source: TH

Context

• Recently, the Supreme Court of India has imposed a blanket ban on a Class 8 NCERT textbook chapter dealing with corruption in the judiciary, and warned of ‘serious action’ in case of non-compliance.

Observations of the Supreme Court

• A Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant made the following key observations:
  • The inclusion of the chapter appeared to be a ‘calculated move to undermine the institution’.
  • It may amount to criminal contempt due to its potential to lower the authority of the judiciary.
  • The matter requires a deeper probe.
  • If unchecked, such actions could erode public faith in the judiciary.
  • The Court emphasized institutional responsibility: ‘Heads must roll’.
• The Solicitor General tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology on behalf of the Ministry of Education.

Constitutional and Legal Dimensions

• Independence of Judiciary: Part of the Basic Structure Doctrine(Kesavananda Bharati case).
  • Ensures autonomy from executive and legislative interference.
  • Essential for rule of law and constitutional supremacy.
  • The Court appears to view the chapter as an attempt to weaken this institutional independence.
• Contempt of Court: It is governed by Contempt of Courts Act, 1971. Criminal contempt includes acts that:
  • Scandalize or lower the authority of the court;
  • Interfere with judicial proceedings;
  • Obstruct administration of justice;
  • The Bench indicated that the chapter may fall within this definition.
• Freedom of Expression vs Institutional Integrity: Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech and expression. Reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) include contempt of court; defamation; and public order.
  • The issue highlights a tension between academic discourse and criticism of institutions, and protection of judicial dignity and authority.
• Role of NCERT and Curriculum Governance: NCERT develops national curriculum frameworks.
  • Curriculum content often becomes politically and constitutionally sensitive.
  • Judicial scrutiny of textbooks has occurred in the past in matters involving ideology, history, and constitutional values.
  • This incident raises questions about curriculum oversight mechanisms, academic accountability, and institutional consultation processes.
• Governance and Institutional Trust: The Supreme Court stressed that unchecked actions could erode public confidence in the judiciary.
  • In a democracy, courts derive legitimacy from public trust, and constructive criticism strengthens institutions.
  • However, unfounded or sensational allegations may weaken institutional credibility.
  • Maintaining balance is critical for democratic stability.

Source: TH

Why in the News?

• The Rajasthan Economic Review 2025–26, released alongside the State Budget, serves as the definitive document for the state's macroeconomic performance.
• This year's report is pivotal as it formalizes the "Viksit Rajasthan @2047" roadmap, transitioning from traditional departmental reporting to 13 thematic chapters focused on outcomes.

Key Points:

=> Macro-Economic Aggregates: According to provisional data, the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is placed amongst the leading states in terms of size and growth, reinforcing its role in the broader national economic framework.

=> GSDP Growth: The Gross State Domestic Product at current prices is estimated at ?18.75 lakh crore, a growth of 10.24% over the previous year.

=> Per Capita Income (PCI): Current Prices: ?2,02,349 (Crossed the ?2 lakh milestone). Constant Prices: ?1,03,189.

=> Inflation (CPI): Rajasthan’s inflation remained stable at 4.8%, slightly below the national average, attributed to efficient supply-chain management in the agriculture sector.

=> Fiscal Deficit: Managed at 4.3% of GSDP, reflecting a commitment to the revised FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management) targets while maintaining high capital expenditure.

=> Tax Revenue: Significant increase in State GST (SGST) collections due to the "Mission Digitization" of tax compliance.

=> Sectoral Composition of GSVA:The structural shift in the economy is evident in the Gross State Value Added (GSVA) at current prices:

=> Services (47.7%): The services sector contributes the largest share to the state’s GSVA, driven by tourism, hospitality, financial services, IT-enabled services and logistics.

=> Tourism remains a growth engine, leveraging Rajasthan’s cultural heritage and connectivity improvements. The dominant sector, fueled by a post-pandemic surge in tourism and the "FinTech" initiatives in Jaipur and Jodhpur.

=> Industry (26.5%): Industrial sector performance has strengthened, supported by MSMEs, investment in industrial parks and the implementation of industrial promotion policies.

=> Rajasthan has been focusing on expanding its manufacturing base, renewable energy industries and downstream sectors, leveraging its strategic location and resource endowments.

=> Driven by the MSME Policy 2024 and Rajasthan’s lead in stone, cement, and hydrocarbon production.

=> Agriculture (25.7%): Agriculture remains a significant contributor, both in terms of employment and value addition, though its share in the GSVA has moderated compared to services.

=> Despite its lower share compared to Services, it employs over 60% of the population.

=> Foodgrain production reached 283.98 lakh MT.

=> The agricultural sector continues to be the backbone for rural livelihoods, even as diversification into allied activities such as horticulture, animal husbandry and fisheries gains traction under state schemes.

Key Pillars of "Viksit Rajasthan @2047":The Review highlights strategic focus areas like-

• Energy Transition: Rajasthan leads India in Renewable Energy with an installed capacity exceeding 31,500 MW. The review emphasizes the "Green Hydrogen Policy" and the PM-KUSUM scheme.
• Infrastructure: Focus on the 9 Greenfield Expressways and the completion of the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) phases to solve water scarcity in 13 districts.
• The Gig Economy: Rajasthan is the first state to implement the Platform Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, now covering 2% of the total workforce.
• Agriculture 2.0: Emphasis on Natural Farming (1 lakh hectares) and the "Rajasthan Millets Promotion Mission" to capitalize on the state's status as the "Millet Bowl of India."

Context

• A new study has found that to escape a drug called lenacapavir, HIV has to damage one of its own components, the capsid. 

More about the News

• Lenacapavir inhibits the HIV capsid protein, blocking viral replication, and requires just two subcutaneous injections per year. This biannual dosing markedly improves adherence over daily oral PrEP pills.
• Recently, Zimbabwe has rolled out Lenacapavir as a long-acting injectable PrEP option that addresses key challenges like adherence in high-burden regions.

Background

• First HIV Drug: In 1987,four years after the discovery of HIV as the causative agent of AIDS, scientists reported the first drug effective against the virus, called zidovudine. 
  • Zidovudine targeted a viral enzyme called reverse transcriptase, and prevented the virus from completing its life-cycle. 
  • But HIV quickly learned to outsmart it, and the resulting drug resistance meant many patients soon lost the drug’s protective effect.
• Development of Drugs: The insight led to the development of multiple antiretroviral drugs targeting different viral proteins, including reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase.
  • It laid the foundation for combination therapies that could suppress the virus far more effectively and durably.
• Lenacapavir: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved lenacapavir, the world’s first capsid-based HIV inhibitor.
  • Lenacapavir is injected under the skin of the abdomen just once every six months and steadily delivers the drug into the bloodstream.
  • In clinical trials, it prevented HIV infection in high-risk individuals with 100% effectiveness. 

HIV AIDS

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system.
  • HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system. This makes it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infections and some cancers.
  • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) occurs at the most advanced stage of infection.
• Spread: HIV is spread from the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal fluids. It can also spread from a mother to her baby.
• Treatment:  There is no cure for HIV infection. It is treated with antiretroviral drugs, which stop the virus from replicating in the body. Untreated HIV can progress to AIDS, often after many years.

HIV AIDS in India

• There has been a decline in infection from 0.33% in 2010 to 0.20 in 2024.
• India’s prevalence is significantly lower than the global average of 0.7%.
• India’s new infections represent only about 5% of the global total (1.3 million in 2024).

The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP)

It has evolved through five phases, shifting from basic awareness to comprehensive prevention, testing, treatment, and sustainability.

• NACP I (1992–1999): It was India’s first comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention and control programme.
  • Aim: Slow the spread of HIV and reduce morbidity, mortality, and overall impact of AIDS.
• NACP II (1999–2006): Strengthen long-term national capacity to respond to HIV/AIDS.
• NACP III (2007–2012): Halt and reverse the HIV epidemic by 2012.
  • Strategy: Scale up prevention among High-Risk Groups (HRGs) and the general population.
• NACP IV (2012–2017): 50% reduction in new infections (compared to 2007 baseline).
  • Extended (2017–2021) to advance the goal of Ending AIDS by 2030.
  • Major initiatives during extension: HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017)- It prohibits discrimination against people living with HIV (PLHIV).
  • Mission Sampark: Its purpose was to “bring back” people living with HIV (PLHIV) who had stopped antiretroviral therapy (ART).
  • Routine Universal Viral Load monitoring.
• NACP V (2021–2026): Launched as a Central Sector Scheme, aims to build on past achievements and address persistent challenges.
  • The goal of this Phase is to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3.3 by helping end the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.  

Conclusion

• India’s AIDS decline is more prominent than the global average, supported significantly by broadened testing, enhanced access to antiretroviral therapy, focused outreach to high-risk groups, and initiatives to combat stigma, all implemented through collaborative state and community actions. 

Source: TH

Context

• The recently concluded India AI Impact Summit 2026 showcased how AI is rapidly transforming India’s legal ecosystem with AI-powered research tools.

Use of AI in India’s Justice System

• In the Supreme Court, High Courts, National Informatics Centre (NIC) AI tools are now assisting various functions such as:  
  • Transcription of oral arguments,
  • Translation of judgments,
  • Identification of defects in e-filing,
  • Legal research, and
  • Metadata extraction.

• Over the past decade, courts have moved from basic computerisation to nationwide digital platforms, real-time data systems, virtual courts and multilingual judgment access.
• Latest technologies like AI and its subsets Machine Learning (ML), Optical Character Recognition (OCR), Natural Language Processing (NLP) are being used in the e-Courts software applications developed under the eCourts Project. 

Use of AI in India’s Criminal Justice System

• e-Courts Project: Initiated by the Supreme Court of India to modernize judicial functions through digital innovation.
  • Phase III: Integrates advanced AI solutions to improve case management and administrative efficiency in courts.

• AI for Legal Translation and Language Accessibility: India’s judicial system operates primarily in English, creating barriers for non-English-speaking litigants.
  • AI-driven legal translation tools are being deployed to make legal documents and judgments accessible.
• AI in Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention: To enhance crime detection, surveillance, and criminal investigations.
  • Automated drones for crime scene monitoring and suspect tracking.
  • Facial recognition systems integrated with national criminal databases.
  • AI-powered forensic analysis to examine evidence and digital crime trails.
  • AI-driven speech-to-text tools assist in real-time FIR filing and case documentation.
  • AI is improving witness testimony analysis and courtroom evidence evaluation.

Significance of Use of AI in CJS in India

• Backlog of Cases: India’s judicial system faces a backlog cases, undermining public trust in timely justice.
  • AI can streamline case management, reduce backlog, and speed up judicial processes.
• Overcrowding in Prisons: Indian prisons have been housing more inmates than their capacity for decades now, AI can streamline the complaint registration process, track investigations, flag necessary actions, and assess investigation quality.
• Predictive Models for Operations: AI can analyze crime location data, patrolling patterns, and offender routes to guide police operations effectively.
• Resource Optimization: AI can handle administrative tasks, freeing up police personnel for more public-facing work, such as investigations, law enforcement, and traffic management.
• Enhanced Accuracy: AI can prevent neglect of crucial evidence and ensure a more meticulous and reliable criminal justice process.

Concerns/Challenges

• Privacy Concerns: AI could lead to surveillance overreach and violations of individual privacy rights.
• Bias and Discrimination: AI systems may perpetuate biases in decision-making, affecting marginalized communities unfairly.
• Lack of Transparency: AI algorithms are often opaque, making it difficult to understand how decisions are made, potentially undermining accountability.
• Dependence on Technology: Over-reliance on AI could lead to the erosion of human judgment and discretion in the criminal justice system.
• Data Security: Storing and processing sensitive criminal justice data using AI raises risks of data breaches and misuse.
• Ethical Concerns: The use of AI in sensitive areas like sentencing and parole decisions raises moral and ethical questions about fairness and justice.
  • The opaqueness can go against the principles of open justice, due process and the rule of law.
• Exclusion of Human Insight: AI may overlook nuanced factors in cases that require human empathy and judgment.

Way Ahead

• A balanced approach must be taken to ensure AI tools respect privacy, civil liberties, and ethical standards, while preventing misuse.
• By leveraging AI, India’s criminal justice system can become more efficient, accessible, and just, while ensuring safeguards are in place to address any challenges.

Source: AI

Context

• Bengaluru-based startup Sarvam AI unveiled two indigenous Large Language Models (LLMs), underscoring India’s push for sovereign, multilingual, and compute-efficient AI amid global competition.

Large Language Models (LLMs)

• A large language model (LLM) is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that uses deep learning techniques and massively large data sets to understand, summarize, generate and predict new content.
• Deep learning involves the probabilistic analysis of unstructured data, which eventually enables the deep learning model to recognize distinctions between pieces of content without human intervention.
• It helps to understand how characters, words, and sentences function together.

Indigenous LLM Ecosystem in India

• Sarvam AI Models: Focus on efficiency, accuracy, and Indian language capabilities. Intended to be open-source, though broader public scrutiny is ongoing.
• BharatGen, incubated at IIT Bombay, trained a multilingual 17-billion-parameter model for sectors like education and healthcare.
• Gnani.ai launched compact speech and text-to-speech models.

How LLMs Are Trained?

• GPU Clusters: LLM training requires massive computational power using clusters of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). Thousands of GPUs operate simultaneously for weeks or months.
• Data as the Core Input: Training relies on enormous datasets, often scraped from the Internet.
• Model Parameters: Parameters represent the internal weights through which models learn patterns. Sarvam AI trained models with 35 billion and 105 billion parameters.
  • Larger parameter counts improve capability but require more computation.

Key Training Methodologies Used

• Data Curation: It focuses on collecting high-quality datasets in Indian languages.
  • It includes government documents, literature, media, and synthetic data generation.
  • It is critical for improving performance beyond English-centric AI systems.
• Pre-Training: The models learn general language patterns by predicting the next token in large unlabelled datasets.
  • This stage builds foundational reasoning and grammar capabilities.
• Fine-Tuning: Models are adapted for specific tasks using curated datasets.
  • Tools such as Hugging Face and LangChain support instruction tuning, classification, and domain adaptation.
• Alignment/RLHF (Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback): Human raters rank model outputs to teach it to be safer, more accurate, and better aligned with human intent, discouraging harmful or biased responses.

Challenges in Training LLMs in India

• Limited Indian Language Data: Scarcity of high-quality datasets in Indian languages reduces model performance.
  • Many systems rely on translation into English before processing, increasing token usage and latency. Suboptimal native performance affects adoption among non-English users.
• High Capital Requirements: Training frontier models demands substantial financial investment. Startups often lack immediate commercial returns to justify such costs.
• Infrastructure Constraints: Access to high-end computing facilities remains limited without government support.

Source: TH

Context

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a foundational technology for accelerating inclusive rural development in India.

Applications of AI in Rural India

• Geospatial Monitoring of Rural Assets: AI-powered platforms such as BhuPRAHARI, use high-resolution satellite imagery to track the creation and maintenance of rural assets like roads, water harvesting structures (Amrit Sarovars), and buildings, replacing manual inspection.
• The Digital ShramSetu Mission is a coordinated initiative to deploy AI and other frontier technologies within the informal sector. By aligning technological deployment with regulatory frameworks and impact assessment, the mission enhances service delivery and livelihood support for informal and rural workers.
• AI Infrastructure in Agriculture: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has deployed AI through initiatives such as Kisan e-Mitra, a virtual assistant providing information on government schemes, including income support programmes.
• Promote AI in Rural Development: The Suman Sakhi WhatsApp Chatbot of Madhya Pradesh employs AI-enabled conversational tools to provide women and families with accessible maternal and newborn health information.
• AI for Language Inclusion and Multilingual Governance: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a transformative role in expanding linguistic access in India by enabling citizens—especially those in rural, remote, and tribal regions.
  • BHASHINI is an AI-powered national language platform launched in July 2022 to reduce linguistic barriers in accessing digital services. It provides translation, speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and voice-based interfaces across more than 36 Indian languages.
  • BharatGen, launched in 2025, is India’s first government-funded sovereign Large Language Model designed specifically for Indian linguistic and socio-cultural contexts.
  • Adi Vaani is an AI-enabled platform designed to address communication challenges faced by tribal communities living in remote and underserved regions.

National AI Policy Framework for Inclusive Development

• Launched in 2018 by NITI Aayog, the National Strategy for AI identifies AI as a transformative tool to address India’s developmental challenges.
• The strategy prioritises sectors with high social impact, particularly agriculture, healthcare, education, and governance.
  • The strategy emphasises improving access, affordability, and quality of essential services in underserved regions. 
• The policy emphasises augmentation of human capabilities rather than replacement of labour. It promotes inclusive economic participation through digital skilling and technology-enabled employment.

India AI Governance Guidelines

• The India AI Governance Guidelines, launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in 2025, for responsible and trustworthy AI deployment.
• The framework comprises four key components:
  • Seven guiding principles (Sutras) for ethical and responsible AI.
  • Key recommendations across six pillars of AI governance.
  • An action plan mapped to short, medium, and long-term timelines.
  • Practical guidelines for industry, developers, and regulators to ensure transparent and accountable AI deployment.

Challenges

• Digital Infrastructure Deficit: Reliable electricity, high-speed internet, and digital connectivity remain uneven across rural India.
• Low Digital Literacy: A significant proportion of the rural population lacks digital skills required to use AI-enabled platforms.
• Data Availability: AI systems depend on large volumes of reliable and representative data, which is usually scarce in rural contexts.
  • Fragmented databases across departments hinder integrated decision-making.
• High Implementation Costs: Developing, deploying, and maintaining AI systems requires substantial financial investment.
  • Rural local bodies often face budgetary limitations and competing developmental priorities.

Way Ahead

• Expand digital infrastructure, including broadband connectivity and data ecosystems, in rural areas.
• Promote digital literacy and AI awareness among citizens and local officials.
• Ensure robust data protection and ethical safeguards to prevent misuse and exclusion.
• Strengthen institutional capacity for AI adoption at the Panchayat level.

Source: PIB

Context

• The India AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded in New Delhi recently.

Background of AI Summits

• 2023 Bletchley Park Summit (UK): The first global AI summit was held at Bletchley Park and focused on safety. It brought together countries and experts to discuss AI risks and resulted in the Bletchley Declaration.
• 2024 Seoul Summit (South Korea): The second summit was held in Seoul in May 2024, building on the discussions from the Bletchley Park meeting and broadening to include innovation and inclusivity alongside safety.
• 2025 AI Action Summit (Paris, France): In February 2025, the AI Action Summit took place at the Grand Palais in Paris. It was co-chaired by France and India and followed the earlier Bletchley Park and Seoul events.
• 2026 India AI Impact Summit (New Delhi): This is the next major summit in the series, held in India in February 2026.

India–AI Impact Summit 2026

• Hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• The India–AI Impact Summit 2026, was announced by the PM at the France AI Action Summit and it will be the first-ever global AI summit hosted in the Global South.
• It will strengthen existing multilateral initiatives while advancing new priorities, deliverables, and cooperative frameworks.
• The Three Sutras: Three foundational pillars, known as ‘Sutras’ i.e. People, Planet and Progress, define how AI can be harnessed through multilateral cooperation for collective benefit.

India-hosted Summit Goals

• AI’s capabilities must be available to as many people as possible; 
  • more work must be done to make it relevant in the Global South, such as by expanding representation for languages that have been under-represented in the training of western LLMs (large language models); 
  • and that the technology should be “safe and trusted”.
• On the domestic front, the government sought to project India as an attractive destination for AI infrastructure and research, and for encouraging the technology’s adoption in India. 

Outcomes of the summit

• Wide Participation: The summit attracted over five lakh visitors, a record that easily surpassed the attendance of the G20 summit in 2023.
  • The event also hosted over 500 individual discussions, with speakers from around the world. 
• Investments: The government also mentioned $250 billion in investment commitments, as well as $20 billion in commitments for frontier deep tech research. 
• Delhi Declaration: India also achieved broad consensus among 88 countries and international organisations for the New Delhi Declaration on AI.
  • It was signed by the U.S., China, France, and several other countries who are key for the development and deployment of AI at present.
  • Nearly all commitments are described in the statement as “voluntary” and “non-binding,” encouraging wider participation. 
  • These include a charter for the “democratic diffusion” of AI; a “Global AI Impact Commons,” which would serve as a database of use cases for countries to draw inspiration from; a “Trusted AI Commons,” described as a “repository of tools, benchmarks, and best practices; an “International Network of AI for Science Institutions” which would link technical institutes around the world.
• India Joined Pax Silica: During the summit, India joined the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative, which seeks to build a network of like-minded countries opposed to concentration of power in electronics manufacturing and critical minerals. 

• Sarvam AI: The event saw the long-anticipated launch of India’s first domestically trained multi-billion parameter LLMs by Sarvam AI. 
• Investment commitments: 
  • Reliance Industries Ltd. announced commitments of ?10 lakh crore in domestic AI, only slightly more than the Adani Group’s similar commitment. 
  • Google gave a few fresh details about its existing $15 billion investment in data centre and AI projects in India, such as a subsea cable system that would directly connect India and the U.S. 

Conclusion

• The summit is expected to catalyse long-term international partnerships and position AI as a key driver of economic growth.
• The government mentioned there was “broad-based global consensus on leveraging AI for economic growth and social good”.

Source: TH