News at a Glance
- Telangana: Telangana Seeks Relaxation of Moisture Norms for Cotton Procurement at MSP
- Musi River Development Project and Institutional Land Transfer to MRDCL
- Polity and Governance: SC Upholds Calcutta High Court Order Directing Centre to Resume MGNREGS in West Bengal
- Agriculture: Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025
- CSE’s New Report Charts a Roadmap for Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture
- Economy: Global Capital and India’s Banking Transformation
- Himachal Pradesh Records Higher HDI Than National Average
- Defence: INS Ikshak: Strengthening India’s Maritime Self-Reliance and Inclusivity
Telangana Seeks Relaxation of Moisture Norms for Cotton Procurement at MSP
Source: The Hindu
TGPSC Relevance: Agriculture
Context: MSP procurement in Telangana
Why in News?
Telangana has urged the Centre to relax the maximum moisture content norm for cotton procurement under MSP from 12% to 20% due to continuous rains during the 2025–26.
Introduction
- In a significant development aimed at protecting the interests of cotton farmers, Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has urged the Union Government to relax the existing moisture content norm for cotton procurement under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme.
- The appeal comes in light of the prolonged rainy conditions during the cotton harvesting season, which have led to higher moisture levels in the produce.
Background: MSP and Moisture Norms in Cotton Procurement
- The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), a central public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Textiles, procures cotton from farmers at the MSP announced by the Centre. The MSP serves as a price safety net, ensuring that farmers receive a remunerative rate even if market prices fall below the government-fixed threshold.
- However, CCI’s procurement is bound by quality parameters, including moisture content, which is currently capped between 8% and 12%.
- Cotton with higher moisture is rejected or purchased at a lower price due to risks of damage, fungal growth, and reduced fibre quality during storage.
Current Cotton Scenario in Telangana
Telangana is one of the largest cotton-producing states in India, and cotton remains a key Kharif crop for its farmers. According to the Minister:
- Area under cotton cultivation: 45.32 lakh acres
- Estimated production: 28.29 lakh tonnes
- Market trend: Global cotton prices are showing a downward movement, indicating possible challenges in open-market sales.
- The combination of lower prices and quality-related procurement restrictions has amplified concerns over farmers’ income security in the current season.
(Image Source: The Hindustan Times)
Farmers’ Concerns
- Farmers’ representatives have appealed to the State government, stating that:
- The prevailing wet conditions make it impossible to achieve the prescribed 12% moisture limit.
- As a result, large quantities of cotton remain unsold, leading to financial hardship and storage difficulties.
- The strict enforcement of the norm has effectively disqualified a significant portion of the crop from MSP coverage.
- The relaxation of the norm to 20% moisture content, they argue, would ensure that most farmers can sell their produce at the guaranteed support price, mitigating losses due to weather and market volatility.
Rationale for Relaxation
- Weather-induced Unavoidable Moisture: The rains during October–November are natural and unavoidable, affecting nearly all cotton-growing regions in Telangana.
- Farmers’ Welfare and Income Support: Enforcing a strict norm during adverse weather conditions defeats the protective intent of the MSP system, designed to safeguard farmers’ income.
- State-level Precedents: In past instances, the Centre has temporarily relaxed moisture norms during exceptional climatic conditions to facilitate procurement and prevent distress sales.
- Market Stability: Government procurement of high-moisture cotton will help stabilize market prices and prevent exploitative middlemen practices.
Potential Challenges
While the relaxation would offer immediate relief to farmers, it also presents operational challenges:
- Storage and quality maintenance: High-moisture cotton is susceptible to mold, discoloration, and deterioration, posing a risk to CCI’s warehouses.
- Increased drying and processing costs: Additional resources may be required to reduce moisture levels post-procurement.
- Potential impact on export quality: Maintaining export-grade cotton standards could become more difficult if quality parameters are relaxed extensively.
Conclusion
- The Telangana government’s appeal to relax the cotton moisture norm underscores the tension between procurement quality standards and farmers’ welfare needs. While the 12% moisture limit ensures quality and storage safety, the exceptional rainfall conditions of 2025 have made it impractical for farmers to meet the criterion.
CARE MCQ
Q1. With reference to the recent request by Telangana regarding cotton procurement, consider the following statements:
- The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) currently procures cotton with a moisture content ranging between 8% and 12%.
- Telangana has sought relaxation of the moisture content norm up to 20%.
- The 2025–26 cotton marketing season in Telangana covers an area of over 50 lakh acres under cultivation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer 1- A
Explanation
- Statement 1 is correct: The CCI procures cotton only when the moisture content is between 8% and 12%.
- Statement 2 is correct: The Telangana government has requested the Centre to raise the permissible limit to 20% due to high moisture caused by persistent rains.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The area under cotton cultivation in Telangana is 45.32 lakh acres, not over 50 lakh acres.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
Musi River Development Project and Institutional Land Transfer to MRDCL
Source: New Indian Express
TGPSC Relevance: Infrastructure
Context: Musi River Development Project
Why in News?
The Telangana government has resumed and transferred 734 acres of institutional land along the Easa (Esi) River to the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL) for the Musi River Development Project.
Introduction
- In a major step towards rejuvenating Hyderabad’s Musi River, the Telangana government has resumed and transferred 734 acres of institutional lands to the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL).
- This move, announced marks a crucial advancement in the implementation of the Musi River Development Project, aimed at riverfront beautification, ecological restoration, and urban renewal along the Musi and Esi rivers.
Background: Reviving the Musi River
- The Musi River Development Project is part of the Telangana government’s broader effort to restore the ecological health of the Musi River and its tributaries, including the Easa (Esi) River, while developing sustainable urban infrastructure along its banks.
- The Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL) was constituted as the nodal agency to oversee planning, land management, and execution of development works such as green corridors, flood control mechanisms, and urban rejuvenation.
- The transfer of institutional lands along the river represents one of the most significant administrative actions to ensure the availability of contiguous land parcels for the riverfront project.
Details of Land Transfer
A total of 734 acres of institutional land located along the Easa (Esi) River, a tributary of the Musi, has been resumed from various government and semi-government institutions and transferred to MRDCL for development purposes. The lands are spread across several villages in Rangareddy district, including:
- Himayathsagar and Kismathpur in Gandipet Mandal
- Premavathipet and Budvel in Rajendranagar Mandal
- Kothwalguda in Shamshabad Mandal
Institution-wise Land Resumed
- The land resumption process covered multiple departments and training institutions. The breakup is as follows:
| Institution | Remarks |
| Telangana State Engineering Research Laboratory (TSERL) | Technical research land resumed for riverfront project |
| Water and Land Management Training and Research Institute (WALAMTARI) | Major landholding transferred to MRDCL |
| Indian Institute of Public Health | Part of campus land resumed |
| Extension Training Centre (VDOTC) | Directly resumed for project use |
| Bankers Institute of Rural and Entrepreneurship Development (BIRED) | Small portion resumed |
| Extension Training Centre (ETC) – indirectly controlled lands (including Reddy Hostel, IAS Study Circle for STs, and TS Institute of Panchayat Raj & Rural Development) | Indirectly resumed from institutions under ETC’s control |
| HMDA Eco Park | Land alienated from HMDA’s jurisdiction |
| Tourism Department | Land allocated for project integration |
| Open and disputed lands | Transferred despite pending litigation |
(Image Source: The Hindu)
Alternative Land Allotments
To compensate the institutions whose lands were resumed, the government has allotted alternative land parcels at:
- HMDA layout at Shamshabad, and
- Future City, another planned development zone.
- However, the extent of land allotted is significantly smaller than that resumed, except in the case of Reddy Hostel, which was allotted 30 acres in lieu of 15 acres resumed, indicating special consideration.
Significance of the Decision
- Facilitating Riverfront Development: The availability of consolidated land will enable the MRDCL to initiate large-scale river beautification, green belt creation, floodplain restoration, and infrastructure development.
- Strengthening Urban Resilience: The project aims to mitigate urban flooding, enhance stormwater management, and restore natural drainage systems connected to the Musi and its tributaries.
- Promoting Environmental Sustainability: Rejuvenation of the Musi River aligns with the state’s sustainable urban development goals, focusing on pollution control, water quality improvement, and biodiversity conservation.
- Urban Aesthetics and Public Spaces: Once completed, the project will provide recreational zones, eco-parks, walking tracks, and tourism infrastructure, contributing to Hyderabad’s urban transformation.
- Administrative Consolidation: The transfer showcases efficient inter-departmental coordination, ensuring that fragmented institutional holdings are brought under a single development authority for better planning and implementation.
Challenges Ahead
- Legal complexities regarding the 52 acres of land still under court cases.
- Institutional adjustments, as several training and research centres have lost operational lands.
- Balancing development and ecological conservation, to ensure that construction does not harm the natural river ecosystem.
Conclusion
- The resumption and transfer of 734 acres of institutional land to the MRDCL marks a pivotal administrative move in the Musi River Development Project. It underlines the Telangana government’s commitment to urban rejuvenation, environmental restoration, and sustainable infrastructure creation.
CARE MCQ
Q2. With reference to the Musi River Development Project, consider the following statements:
- A total of 734 acres of institutional land has been resumed and transferred to the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL).
- The resumed lands include those from institutions such as WALAMTARI, TSERL, and the Indian Institute of Public Health.
- The government has not provided any alternative land to the institutions that lost land under this transfer.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer 2- A
Explanation
- Statement 1 is correct: The government transferred 734 acres of institutional land to MRDCL to facilitate the Musi River Development Project.
- Statement 2 is correct: Lands were resumed from major institutions such as WALAMTARI, Telangana State Engineering Research Laboratory (TSERL), and Indian Institute of Public Health, among others.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The government did provide alternative land to the affected institutions at HMDA layout in Shamshabad and Future City, though in smaller extents.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
SC Upholds Calcutta High Court Order Directing Centre to Resume MGNREGS in West Bengal
Source: Down To Earth
UPSC Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance
Context: MGNREGS
Why in News?
The Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court’s directive ordering the Centre to resume MGNREGS in West Bengal.
Introduction
- In a landmark judgment reinforcing the constitutional right to work, the Supreme Court of India on October 27, 2025, upheld the Calcutta High Court’s June 2025 directive ordering the Union Government to resume works under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in West Bengal.
- The verdict marks a crucial victory for nearly 25 million rural workers who had been deprived of employment opportunities and wages for almost three years.
Background of the Case
- The Calcutta High Court, on June 18, 2025, had directed the Centre to restore MGNREGS operations in the state from August 1, 2025, emphasizing that “the scheme of the Act does not envisage a situation where it would be put to cold storage for eternity.”
- Despite this clear order, neither the central nor the state government initiated steps for its implementation. Instead, the Centre moved the Supreme Court, seeking repeated adjournments that further delayed justice and extended the hardship faced by workers.
- The suspension of payments and work under MGNREGS in West Bengal dated back to December 21, 2021, when the Union government stopped releasing funds, citing alleged irregularities.
- By March 2022, the issuance of work permits had also been halted, effectively bringing the employment guarantee scheme to a standstill. The decision impacted millions of rural households, many of whom depend on MGNREGS wages for subsistence.
The Petition and Court Proceedings
- The case was filed by the Paschim Banga Khet Majoor Samity (PBKMS), a trade union representing rural laborers. Advocate Purbayan Chakraborty, who appeared on behalf of PBKMS, stated that the prolonged suspension of the scheme deprived workers of their rightful entitlements under the MGNREG Act.
- The apex court’s decision came after dismissing the Union government’s appeal, affirming the High Court’s stance that indefinite suspension of a statutory welfare scheme was contrary to both the spirit and the purpose of the Act.
| Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)
|
Reactions and Implications
- Anuradha Talwar, convenor of the NREGA Sangharsh Morcha (NSM), drew attention to the evolving challenges faced by MGNREGS workers in recent years, describing a “three-pronged attack” on the scheme:
- Technological barriers that have made access to work and wage payments more difficult.
- Entrenched corruption within the state machinery, where funds are allegedly misused for electoral and personal gains.
- Insufficient budgetary support from the Centre, leading to delayed payments and limited employment generation.
(Image Source: Down To Earth)
Significance of the Verdict
- The Supreme Court’s affirmation of the High Court’s directive is being seen as a reassertion of the constitutional right to livelihood and an important step in safeguarding social security legislation.
- The judgment underlines that welfare schemes like MGNREGS cannot be arbitrarily suspended, as they form an integral part of India’s rural safety net.
- By restoring MGNREGS in West Bengal, the Court has not only revived employment opportunities but also reinforced the principles of federal accountability, transparency, and citizen entitlement under the law.
Conclusion
- The dismissal of the Centre’s plea marks a decisive moment for rural workers in West Bengal and across India.
- As MGNREGS activities resume, the focus now shifts to effective implementation, timely wage disbursement, and restoration of trust among rural households.
- The judgment stands as a reminder that the right to work, as enshrined under the MGNREG Act, is not a privilege—but a legal and moral guarantee owed to every rural citizen.
CARE MCQ
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Supreme Court’s verdict on resumption of MGNREGS in West Bengal:
Assertion (A): The Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court’s order directing the Centre to resume MGNREGS operations in West Bengal, emphasizing that suspension of a statutory welfare scheme cannot be indefinite.
Reason (R): Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005, the right to employment is a legally enforceable entitlement, and the Centre is solely responsible for implementation and funding of all components of the scheme.
Which of the following is correct?
A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
C) A is true, but R is false.
D) A is false, but R is true.
Answer 1- C
Explanation
Assertion (A) – Correct:
- The Supreme Court of India on October 27, 2025, upheld the Calcutta High Court’s June 2025 directive ordering the Union Government to resume MGNREGS works in West Bengal.
- The Court reaffirmed that an indefinite suspension of a statutory welfare scheme like MGNREGS violates the constitutional right to livelihood and contradicts the spirit and purpose of the MGNREG Act, 2005.
- The ruling restored wage-based employment rights to nearly 25 million rural workers who had been deprived since December 2021.
Reason (R) – Incorrect:
- While the MGNREG Act provides a legal right to demand work, implementation is shared between Centre and States.
- The Centre funds 100% of wages and 75% of material costs, but States are responsible for execution, including providing work within 15 days, maintaining records, and conducting social audits.
- Therefore, the Centre is not solely responsible for implementation and funding of all components.
- Hence, R is partly incorrect and does not correctly explain A.
- Therefore, option C is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Among the following who are eligible to benefit from the “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act”? (2011)
(a) Adult members of only the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe households
(b) Adult members of below poverty line (BPL) households
(c) Adult members of households of all backward communities
(d) Adult members of any household
Ans: (d)
Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025
Source: PIB
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Agriculture
Context: Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025
Why in News?
- The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025 is scheduled to be held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on 30–31 October 2025.
(Image Source: BIRC.org)
Background
- India regularly engages with private trade bodies and farmer-producer organizations to promote participatory decision-making in trade development.
- In this context, the Department of Commerce has extended non-financial facilitative support to the upcoming BIRC 2025.
- The event is organized by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) — an independent private body representing major rice exporters.
- The government clarified that it plays no role in IREF’s internal appointments or financial management.
Significance of the Rice Sector
- Economic weight: Rice is India’s largest agricultural export commodity, earning US $ 12.95 billion in FY 2024–25.
- Global position: India remains the largest rice producer and a leading exporter, catering to both basmati and non-basmati markets.
- Livelihoods: The sector sustains millions of small and marginal farmers and contributes significantly to rural employment and food security.
- Strategic dimension: Balancing export potential and domestic food buffer stock is vital to India’s food-policy equilibrium.
About BIRC 2025
- Venue: Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
- Dates: 30–31 October 2025
- Organiser: Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), a private federation of exporters and stakeholders in the rice value chain.
- Collaborating Associations:
- The Rice Exporters Association, Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG)
- The Rice Exporters Association, Kakinada
- Other state-level associations representing non-basmati rice exporters.
- Financial Model: The entire event is privately financed — IREF and partners bear costs of venue, logistics, hospitality, and creative arrangements through internal funds or sponsorships.
- Government’s Role: The Department of Commerce and APEDA provide institutional and coordination support without financial outlay.
Institutional Role – APEDA’s Contribution
➤ Background of APEDA
- Full Form: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
- Establishment: Under the APEDA Act, 1985 (operative from 13 February 1986)
- Administrative Control: Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry
- Headquarters: New Delhi
➤ Mandate
APEDA promotes and develops exports of scheduled agricultural and processed food products through:
- Registration and financial assistance to exporters.
- Infrastructure creation – packhouses, cold-chains, quality-testing labs.
- Quality certification and compliance (e.g. National Programme for Organic Production – NPOP).
- Branding and marketing of “Brand India” agri-products globally.
- Support to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for export readiness.
➤ Role in BIRC 2025
- Coordinator: Facilitates inter-ministerial collaboration (Agriculture, Commerce, External Affairs, Finance) to promote a unified export strategy.
- Facilitator: Helps IREF align event themes with India’s Agriculture Export Policy (2018) and One District One Product (ODOP) framework.
- Non-financial Supporter: Offers technical inputs, branding support, and international outreach through its trade networks.
Thus, APEDA’s involvement ensures that BIRC 2025 strengthens export competitiveness, quality assurance, and sustainability in India’s rice sector.
CARE MCQ
Q2. With reference to the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, consider the following statements:
- The Department of Commerce is providing financial assistance for organizing the conference.
- The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is facilitating coordination among relevant ministries for promoting rice exports.
- The Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) and its co-partners are fully bearing the expenditure of the event.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) 3 only
Answer 2- B
Explanation
- Statement 1 is incorrect: The Department of Commerce is only extending non-financial support to the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025. It is not providing any financial assistance for organizing the event.
- Statement 2 is correct: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is supporting the event by bringing relevant ministries and departments on board to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach toward the promotion of rice exports.
- Statement 3 is correct: The Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) and its co-partners (including The Rice Exporters Association, Chhattisgarh, and The Rice Exporters Association, Kakinada) are bearing all expenses related to the event — such as venue booking, logistics, buyer hosting, and creative arrangements — through their own funds or private sponsorships.
- Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)
- In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
- In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State/UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (d)
CSE’s New Report Charts a Roadmap for Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture
Source: Down To earth
UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Agriculture
Context: Climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture
Why in News?
The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) released two new reports at a national conclave in Rajasthan outlining a roadmap for making Indian agriculture more climate-resilient and sustainable.
Introduction
- Agriculture lies at the heart of India’s economy, employing nearly half of the population and shaping rural livelihoods.
- Yet, it is also among the most climate-vulnerable sectors, facing increasing threats from rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and land degradation. Recognising this dual challenge — that agriculture is both a victim and a contributor to climate change — the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has released a comprehensive roadmap to make Indian agriculture more climate-resilient, sustainable, and nutrition-secure.
- The report, launched during the National Conclave on Sustainable Food Systems held at Anil Agarwal Environment Training Institute (AAETI), Nimli, Rajasthan (October 27–29, 2025), highlights how transforming India’s food systems is essential for long-term ecological and economic stability.
Context and Background
- In 2018, around 11% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions came from food production systems — including agriculture, livestock, and pesticide use.
- Despite this, farmers and livestock rearers remain among the most vulnerable to climate impacts, facing declining productivity, soil fertility loss, and water scarcity.
- India’s own agricultural landscape reflects this vulnerability:
- 90% of rural districts face climate-related risks.
- Rain-fed rice yields may decline by 20% by 2050 and 47% by 2080 without adaptation measures.
- Rising input costs, poor infrastructure, and extreme weather further compound farmers’ distress.
- Against this backdrop, CSE’s twin reports — Sustainable Food Systems: An Agenda for Climate-Risked Times and Missing from the Plate: Edible Plants in Wetlands Lose Favour — provide a policy and ecological framework for strengthening India’s food systems.
Key Highlights of the Reports
1. Sustainable Food Systems: An Agenda for Climate-Risked Times
- This flagship report provides a roadmap for climate-resilient agriculture in India. It recommends:
- Transitioning to low-input, ecologically sound farming practices that reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Diversifying crops and livestock to manage risks from climatic variability.
- Promoting nutrition-rich, locally suited, and traditional crops such as millets and pulses.
- Strengthening carbon markets and soil health monitoring as tools for sustainability.
- Encouraging climate-conscious food consumption patterns among citizens.
2. Missing from the Plate: Edible Plants in Wetlands Lose Favour
- This companion report documents the diversity of edible wetland plants across India and their role in food security, nutrition, and climate adaptation.
- It warns that these species are disappearing from local diets, leading to a loss of both biodiversity and nutritional value. By restoring traditional food systems, India can simultaneously enhance resilience, reduce emissions, and preserve cultural heritage.
(Image Source: geospatial World)
The Food-Climate-Nutrition Nexus
CSE’s reports stress that the food-climate-nutrition connection is not limited to dietary preferences such as veganism or organic farming. Instead, it is about:
- How food is grown — with minimal ecological impact.
- What we eat — focusing on nutritional adequacy and diversity.
- How much we consume — avoiding waste and overproduction.
- This holistic approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Climate-Resilient Agriculture
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture (CRA) refers to an integrated approach that helps agricultural systems prepare for, adapt to, and recover from the adverse impacts of climate change while ensuring productivity and sustainability.
- According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), CRA aims to achieve three core objectives:
- Sustainably increase agricultural productivity and incomes.
- Adapt and build resilience to climate change at multiple levels (farm, ecosystem, and community).
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions where possible.
- In essence, it combines adaptation (coping with climate impacts) and mitigation (reducing emissions) through improved land, water, and input management practices.
Climate Change and Indian Agriculture
- India’s agriculture is highly climate-sensitive due to its dependence on monsoon rains, fragmented land holdings, and limited irrigation coverage.
- 90% of rural districts face climate-related risks.
- Rain-fed areas, accounting for 60% of net sown area, are particularly vulnerable.
- Government data indicate that rain-fed rice yields may fall by 20% by 2050 and 47% by 2080 if no adaptation measures are taken.
- Increased frequency of heatwaves, floods, and cyclones disrupts cropping patterns, soil fertility, and rural livelihoods.
- These trends underscore the urgency of adopting climate-resilient strategies at both the policy and grassroots levels.
Key Components of Climate-Resilient Agriculture
Diversified Cropping Systems
- Promoting millets, pulses, and oilseeds that are drought-tolerant and nutrition-rich.
- Reducing monoculture dependency to enhance resilience.
Improved Soil and Water Management
- Conservation tillage, micro-irrigation, and watershed development.
- Organic manure and composting to restore soil carbon and fertility.
Agroforestry and Integrated Farming Systems
- Combining trees, crops, and livestock to improve productivity and ecological balance.
Use of Climate-Smart Technologies
- Weather-based crop advisories, drought-resistant seed varieties, and early warning systems.
- Digital tools for precision farming and insurance.
Institutional and Policy Support
- Strengthening crop insurance (PM Fasal Bima Yojana), soil health cards, and market access.
- Integrating CRA into rural development and national climate policies.
Challenges in Achieving Climate-Resilient Agriculture
- Despite policy initiatives like National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), several challenges persist:
- Fragmented policy implementation across states.
- Inadequate investment in soil health and irrigation infrastructure.
- Lack of integration between agricultural research and climate adaptation strategies.
- Limited awareness among farmers about low-carbon practices.
- Without a coordinated and evidence-based approach, these structural issues may undermine progress toward resilience.
Way Forward
CSE’s roadmap provides clear strategic directions:
- Mainstream agroecological practices into national and state agricultural policies.
- Incentivize low-carbon farming through green credit and carbon markets.
- Invest in soil health restoration and decentralized water management.
- Promote traditional and climate-suited crops, especially millets, pulses, and oilseeds.
- Strengthen agricultural extension services to spread awareness about adaptive technologies.
- Integrate nutrition goals into agricultural planning, ensuring dietary diversity and food security.
Conclusion
- The CSE’s reports mark a significant step toward aligning India’s agricultural development with climate and nutritional imperatives. By embracing this vision, India can transition toward a low-carbon, nutrition-sensitive, and climate-resilient agricultural system — ensuring the well-being of both farmers and consumers in an era of growing climate uncertainty.
CARE MCQ
Q3. ‘Which of the following measures can contribute to climate-resilient agriculture in India?
- Crop diversification and intercropping.
- Conservation of soil moisture and fertility.
- Use of climate-suited and traditional crop varieties.
- Dependence on single high-yielding crop types for all regions.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1 and 4 only
D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (D)
Answer 3: A
Explanation
- Statement 1 – Correct: Crop diversification and intercropping help farmers spread risk and reduce vulnerability to climate variability. By growing multiple crops together, soil fertility is maintained, and dependency on a single crop is minimized, enhancing resilience.
- Statement 2 – Correct: Conservation of soil moisture and fertility through methods like mulching, contour bunding, and organic manure application improves water retention and soil health, which are vital for sustaining productivity under changing climatic conditions.
- Statement 3 – Correct: Use of climate-suited and traditional crop varieties—such as millets, pulses, and drought-resistant species—enhances the adaptive capacity of agriculture, making it more resilient to temperature fluctuations and rainfall variability.
- Statement 4 – Incorrect: Dependence on a single high-yielding crop type across all regions increases vulnerability to pests, diseases, and climatic shocks. It also reduces biodiversity and weakens long-term sustainability.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. In the context of India’s preparation for Climate -Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements:(2021)
- The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ approach in India is a part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research programme.
- The project of CCAFS is carried out under Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France.
- The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’s research centres.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (d)
Global Capital and India’s Banking Transformation
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Economy
Context: Banking Sector Reforms
Why in News?
Global financial giants like Blackstone, Emirates NBD, SMBC, Zurich Insurance, and IHC are making major acquisitions in Indian banks and NBFCs
Background
- India’s financial landscape is witnessing a historic transformation. Over the last two years, several global financial giants — including Blackstone, Emirates NBD, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), Zurich Insurance, and Abu Dhabi’s International Holding Company (IHC) — have made major investments in Indian banks, insurance firms, and NBFCs.
- Once perceived as over-regulated and inward-looking, India’s banking sector is now emerging as one of the most attractive global investment destinations — driven by strong growth potential, regulatory reforms, and digital expansion.
Major Recent Acquisitions
- Blackstone Inc. – 9.99% stake in Federal Bank for ₹6,196 crore.
- Emirates NBD (Dubai) – $3 billion acquisition of a 60% stake in RBL Bank.
- SMBC (Japan) – $1.6 billion investment for a 25% stake in Yes Bank.
- Zurich Insurance – 70% majority stake in Kotak General Insurance for $670 million.
- IHC (Abu Dhabi) – Nearly $1 billion investment in Sammaan Capital (formerly Indiabulls Housing).
- Bain Capital – ₹4,385 crore investment for 18% stake in Manappuram Finance.
- Fairfax (Canada) – Allowed majority stake in CSB Bank for five years — a rare RBI relaxation beyond the usual 40% foreign cap.
- These moves mark a shift in the global perception of India’s financial institutions as dynamic, reform-oriented, and growth-centric.
Why India’s Financial Sector is Attracting Global Investors
1. Strong Economic Fundamentals and Growth Potential
- India’s economy is projected to grow at 6.8% (RBI), powered by strong domestic demand and digital integration.
- With 400+ million underbanked citizens, the scope for financial expansion is enormous.
- Rising income levels and formalisation have widened the financial inclusion base.
2. Sectoral Clean-up and Improved Governance
- Post-crisis reforms (after IL&FS, DHFL, and Yes Bank collapses) have strengthened financial discipline.
- Implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), better asset recognition, and tighter supervision have restored investor confidence.
3. Regulatory Liberalisation
- FDI cap increased to 100% in insurance and 74% in private banks (with approval).
- This signals a shift toward openness while maintaining regulatory sovereignty.
- 4. Attractive Valuations and Ready Infrastructure
- Acquiring stakes gives investors immediate access to digital platforms, retail networks, and large customer bases.
- Compared to other emerging markets, Indian banks offer cost-efficient entry points with long-term growth prospects.
5. Global Context: India as a Safe Bet
- In contrast to China’s tightening markets and geopolitical risks, India provides macroeconomic stability, political continuity, and rising consumption — making it a preferred global investment hub.
Performance and Potential of India’s Banking Industry
According to McKinsey & Company (2024):
- Indian banks earned $46 billion in net income, a 31% year-on-year growth.
- India now outpaces global peers in profitability, liquidity, and capital adequacy.
- Key Strengths:
- High capital adequacy ratio and low external vulnerability.
- Growth driven by secured retail lending.
- Deepening formalisation through GST and digital payments ecosystem.
Risks and Concerns
- While foreign capital enhances capacity and innovation, it also brings structural challenges.
1. Strategic Control and Sovereignty Issues
- Majority foreign ownership could shift decision-making power offshore, especially during crises.
- Strategic objectives may not always align with national priorities.
2. Exposure to Global Financial Shocks
- High foreign participation could make India’s system more sensitive to global interest rate changes, liquidity crunches, or trade disruptions.
3. Unequal Playing Field
- Foreign banks may enjoy cheaper global credit and advanced risk management tools, potentially marginalising domestic lenders that face higher capital costs.
4. Regulatory Vigilance
- With increasing complexity in cross-border ownership, the RBI and SEBI need to constantly refine frameworks for fit-and-proper norms, transparency, and capital adequacy.
(Image Source: Indian Express)
Implications for India’s Financial Future
India’s vision of becoming a $7 trillion economy by early 2030 demands deep financial capacity and capital inflow. Foreign investments offer not only funds but also technological expertise and governance best practices.
- However, India must:
- Preserve financial sovereignty.
- Prevent market concentration by foreign entities.
- Maintain inclusive financial access for small borrowers and rural sectors.
- For investors: India offers scale, digital readiness, and policy stability.
For India: The challenge lies in ensuring that global participation complements — not compromises — its developmental priorities.
Conclusion
- The surge of global acquisitions in India’s financial sector reflects international confidence in India’s growth trajectory and regulatory maturity.
- Yet, as India integrates deeper with global finance, calibrated liberalisation and robust supervision will be critical to safeguard systemic stability.
- In essence, India stands at a strategic crossroads — embracing global capital to accelerate growth, while ensuring that its financial independence, inclusion goals, and long-term resilience remain uncompromised.
CARE MCQ
Q4. Which of the following factors have contributed to the surge of foreign investments in India’s banking and financial sector?
- Strengthened financial governance through IBC and NPA reforms.
- Liberalisation of FDI limits in banking and insurance.
- Decline in India’s economic growth rate and domestic consumption.
- Attractive valuations and digital financial infrastructure.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A) 1, 2 and 4 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer 4- A
Explanation
- Statements 1 & 2 are correct: Reforms like the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and relaxed FDI limits have boosted investor confidence.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: India’s economy is growing at around 6.8% with strong domestic demand, not declining.
- Statement 4 is correct: India offers attractive valuations, digital inclusion, and ready infrastructure, making it a preferred global investment destination.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Which among the following steps is most likely to be taken at the time of an economic recession? (2021)
A Cut in tax rates accompanied by increase in interest rate
B Increase in expenditure on public projects
C Increase in tax rates accompanied by reduction of interest rate
D Reduction of expenditure on public projects
Ans: (b)
Himachal Pradesh Records Higher HDI Than National Average
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: Human Development Report 2025.
Why in News?
Himachal Pradesh recorded a Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.78, higher than the national average of 0.63, according to the Human Development Report 2025.
Introduction
- The Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2025, released by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in Chandigarh, highlights the State’s remarkable progress in human development despite its challenging geographical and climatic conditions.
- The report, prepared in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), presents Himachal Pradesh as a model of resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
Key Findings of the Report
1. Human Development Index (HDI)
- The average HDI of Himachal Pradesh stands at 0.78, significantly higher than the national average of 0.63.
- This reflects the State’s success in enhancing living standards, literacy, and life expectancy—three core components of HDI.
2. Literacy and Education
- Himachal Pradesh has achieved the distinction of becoming a fully literate state, with a literacy rate of 99.3%.
- The State ranks fifth nationally in reading and writing competencies, a remarkable improvement from 21st position in 2021.
- These achievements underscore effective educational investments and the expansion of school infrastructure, especially in rural and hilly regions.
3. Health and Life Expectancy
- The infant mortality rate (IMR) has dropped to 21 per 1,000 live births, indicating a robust primary healthcare system.
- Life expectancy has risen to 72 years, a key indicator of improved nutrition, healthcare accessibility, and sanitation.
- Continuous investments in healthcare, women’s welfare, and elderly care have strengthened the State’s social infrastructure.
4. Poverty Reduction
- The poverty rate in the State has fallen below 7%, reflecting the impact of targeted welfare schemes, rural development initiatives, and self-employment programmes.
- Himachal’s focus on equitable growth has ensured that development benefits reach remote and tribal areas.
Human Development Index (HDI) The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite measure developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to assess a country’s overall achievement in three basic dimensions of human development:
It reflects how people in a country live long, educated, and decent lives rather than focusing only on economic growth. India’s Performance (HDR 2025):
|
(Image Source: Amar Ujala)
Focus on Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Development
- Despite geographical constraints, Himachal Pradesh has maintained a strong commitment to environment-friendly growth and climate resilience.
1. Climate Change Challenges
- The State faces severe consequences of global warming, including heavy rainfall, landslides, floods, and cloudbursts during monsoons.
- These disasters have caused substantial loss of lives, property, and infrastructure, emphasizing the urgency for adaptive strategies.
2. Sustainable Development Initiatives
- Himachal Pradesh follows a sustainable development framework that balances ecological preservation with economic growth.
- The government has avoided exploitative use of forests, rivers, and mountains, ensuring long-term ecological balance.
Innovative Government Schemes for Green Growth
1. Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme
- Launched with an outlay of ₹680 crore, the scheme aims to promote green entrepreneurship and self-employment.
- In its first phase, a 50% subsidy is offered for the purchase of electric taxis (e-taxis) to promote sustainable mobility.
2. Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Solar Energy Scheme
- Provides interest subsidies for establishing ground-mounted solar projects (100 kW–2 MW):
- 5% subsidy in tribal areas.
- 4% subsidy in non-tribal areas.
- This scheme encourages local energy generation and employment opportunities in renewable sectors.
3. Electric Vehicle Policy and Green Targets
- Himachal has become the first hill state to adopt a strong electric vehicle policy.
- The goal is to electrify public transport by 2030, aligning with India’s national climate commitments and green mobility agenda.
Conclusion
- Himachal Pradesh’s performance in the Human Development Report 2025 exemplifies how socio-economic progress and environmental sustainability can coexist.
- The State’s HDI of 0.78, high literacy, low poverty, and improved health indicators position it as a model for inclusive and climate-resilient development in India.
- Its focus on human-centric policies, green innovation, and sustainable livelihoods offers valuable lessons for other Indian states striving to balance growth with ecological preservation.
CARE MCQ
Q5. With reference to the Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2025, consider the following statements:
- The Human Development Index (HDI) of Himachal Pradesh is higher than the national average.
- The State has achieved a literacy rate of over 99 percent.
- The infant mortality rate in the State has increased to 21 per 1,000 live births.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer 5- A
Explanation
- Statement 1 is correct: The Human Development Report 2025 states that the average Human Development Index (HDI) of Himachal Pradesh is 0.78, which is higher than the national average of 0.63. This reflects the State’s strong performance in literacy, health, and life expectancy indicators.
- Statement 2 is correct: Himachal Pradesh has recently achieved the status of a fully literate state with a literacy rate of 99.30%. It also ranks fifth in reading and writing competencies, showing significant improvement in education outcomes.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The infant mortality rate (IMR) in Himachal Pradesh has declined to 21 per 1,000 live births, not increased. This decline highlights the success of the State’s healthcare system and maternal-child welfare programmes.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. The Multi-dimensional Poverty Index developed by Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative with UNDP support covers which of the following? (2012)
- Deprivation of education, health, assets and services at household level
- Purchasing power parity at national level
- Extent of budget deficit and GDP growth rate at national level
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
INS Ikshak: Strengthening India’s Maritime Self-Reliance and Inclusivity
Source: India Today
UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Defence
Context: INS Ikshak
Why in News?
INS Ikshak, the third indigenously built Survey Vessel (Large) of the Indian Navy with over 80% indigenous content and women-specific accommodation, will be commissioned on November 6, 2025, at Kochi.
Introduction
- The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Ikshak, the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL] class, on November 6, 2025, at the Naval Base in Kochi. The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff.
- This milestone marks a significant advancement in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in naval shipbuilding and its broader goal under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
(Image Source: India Today)
A Major Leap Toward Indigenous Naval Capability
- INS Ikshak has been constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Kolkata, under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and the Warship Overseeing Team (Kolkata).
- The ship stands as a testament to India’s growing expertise in indigenous shipbuilding, boasting over 80% indigenous content.
- This achievement showcases the successful collaboration between the Indian Navy, GRSE, and numerous MSMEs, reinforcing the domestic industrial base’s capability to deliver technologically advanced and complex maritime platforms.
- The project not only enhances India’s hydrographic capacity but also strengthens the nation’s defense manufacturing ecosystem.
Dual-Role Functionality: Strategic and Humanitarian Utility
- INS Ikshak is designed with dual-role capability, making it more than just a hydrographic survey vessel.
- While its primary mission is to conduct hydrographic surveys—critical for charting maritime boundaries, ensuring safe navigation, and supporting naval operations—it can also be swiftly converted into a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) platform or a hospital ship during emergencies.
- This versatile design enables the vessel to play a pivotal role in both strategic defense operations and humanitarian missions, thereby enhancing the Navy’s operational flexibility and responsiveness in times of crisis.
Promoting Inclusivity in Naval Design
- In a significant step towards gender inclusion, Ikshak is the first ship in the SVL class to feature dedicated accommodation for women officers and sailors.
- This inclusion reflects the Indian Navy’s progressive approach towards building a modern, gender-integrated force.
- By incorporating women-specific facilities, the Navy reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity, aligning with broader national efforts to ensure greater participation of women in all sectors of defense and public service.
Symbolism and Significance of the Name
- The name Ikshak—which means “The Guide”—beautifully captures the vessel’s core mission and spirit. As a survey ship, its primary role is to guide mariners through uncharted waters, contributing to safe navigation and maritime domain awareness.
- The ship embodies the Navy’s vision of being a “guide” to India’s waters, symbolizing safety, precision, and exploration.
Enhancing India’s Hydrographic and Maritime Strength
- With its commissioning, INS Ikshak will significantly enhance India’s hydrographic survey capabilities, ensuring accurate charting of coastal and deep-sea regions.
- This improvement directly contributes to regional maritime safety, supports blue economy initiatives, and strengthens India’s role in maritime cooperation and navigation safety across the Indo-Pacific region.
- The induction of Ikshak reflects a broader vision of the Indian Navy—to build a future-ready, self-reliant, and inclusive fleet that upholds India’s maritime interests and contributes to regional peace and security.
Conclusion
- INS Ikshak represents more than a technological achievement—it embodies India’s commitment to self-reliance, inclusivity, and maritime excellence. By guiding the nation’s maritime journey toward a safer and more self-reliant future, INS Ikshak truly lives up to its name—“The Guide.”
CARE MCQ
Q6. With reference to INS Ikshak, recently in the news, consider the following statements:
- It is the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) class, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
- The ship has dual-role capability, enabling it to function as a hydrographic survey and a humanitarian assistance vessel.
- It is the first vessel in its class to include accommodation for women officers and sailors.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer 6-A
Explanation
- Statement 1 is correct: INS Ikshak is the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) class, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and Warship Overseeing Team (Kolkata). This highlights India’s indigenous shipbuilding capability under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Statement 2 is correct: The vessel possesses dual-role functionality — it can perform hydrographic survey operations and can also be deployed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions or as a hospital ship during emergencies.
- Statement 3 is correct: Ikshak is the first ship in the SVL class to feature dedicated accommodation for women officers and sailors, reflecting the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and modernization.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016)
- Amphibious warfare ship
- Nuclear-powered submarine
- Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
- Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Ans: (c)