WAVES : EMPOWERING INDIA’S CREATIVE ECONOMY FOR

THE GLOBAL STAGE

The World Audio Visual and Entertain- 2. Animation, VFX, Gaming, Comics (AVGC-
ment Summit (WAVES) held in Mumbai (1st– XR) : Positioning India as a hub for innova-
4th May) aims to position India as a global tion and outsourcing.
leader in the creative economy. Prime Minister 3. OTT and Digital Media : Supporting digital
Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat storytelling and global content models.
(December 29, 2024), emphasized India's role not 4. Music and Live Entertainment : Promoting
just as a consumer but as a creator, innovator Indian music and performances globally.
and cultural ambassador. WAVES seeks to unite
Orange Economy and India’s Contribu-
stakeholders from Bollywood, regional cinema,
tion
gaming, animation and more to project India's
The Orange Economy—focused on creati-
creative prowess globally.
vity, IP and heritage—is one of the fastest-
PM highlighted India’s potential to lead the growing sectors globally. India plays a vital role
gaming and animation industry, urging youth to due to its youth-driven innovation and diverse
take charge and help grow the creative eco- content ecosystems, making it a catalyst in
nomy, making it a key driver toward a $5 trillion global creative landscapes.
economy.
Policy Initiatives
Create in India, Create for the World
The government has rolled out reforms
WAVES brings together storytellers, artists, such as :
producers and technologists globally. It encour- Foreign investment easing
ages cross-border collaborations, cinematic inno-
Film facilitation offices
vation and immersive content such as AR/ VR.
Production incentives
It bridges East and West through creative and
Establishment of a National Centre of
commercial co-creation.
Excellence (NCoE) for AVGC-XR in Mumbai is
India : A Rising Powerhouse in M&E set to boost immersive tech and attract foreign
With its storytelling legacy and demo- investment.
graphic edge, India is emerging as a global Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw termed
Media & Entertainment (M&E) leader. WAVES WAVES as a ‘game-changer’ for building infra-
nurtures content creators, amplifies local voices structure supporting global Indian creators.
and generates sustainable livelihoods. New policy reforms aim to make India a Global
Four Pillars of WAVES : Content Creator.
Broadcasting & Infotainment Conclusion
AVGC-XR WAVES not only celebrates Indian creati-
Digital Media & Innovation vity but transforms India into a global cultural
Films and creative superpower. Backed by digital
1. Cinema and Series : Promoting global strength, talent and innovation, it redefines
collaborations and showcasing Indian India’s position in the global entertainment
regional cinema. economy, where creativity is currency.

WAVES 2025 : INDIA LEADS THE CREATIVE REVOLUTION

OF THE WORLD
India's Legacy and Future in Storytelling It positions India as a global leader in the
India has always been a storytelling civilisa- Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, high-
tion, through epics like the Ramayana and lighting its soft power and cultural diver-
Mahabharata, temple sculptures and folk sity.
traditions.
WAVES aims to provide a unified global
The philosophy of ‘One Earth, One Family,
platform for creators to showcase talent,
One Future’ reflects India’s interconnected-
find fame and fuel the creative economy.
ness and cultural unity.
WAVES 2025 : Vision and Significance Strategic Goals and Global Collaboration
WAVES (World Audio Visual & Entertain- WAVES goes beyond a creative bazaar—it
ment Summit) is envisioned as a global fosters global media dialogue and collabora-
platform for storytelling via modern media. tion on common concerns.
 The Indian government, through the It recognizes creators—from Bollywood to
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and regional artists, from youth to profes-
the Ministry of External Affairs, reached out sionals—as central to this transformation.
to 100 countries to participate.
Key Components of WAVE 2025
WAVES brings together creators, policy-
makers and industry leaders for global WAVES Bazaar : A platform for top enter-
industry evolution. tainment firms to showcase content, connect
with buyers and protect intellectual pro-
Empowering India’s Creative Economy
perty.
India is leveraging technology like AR/VR,
visual effects and immersive media to tell WAVEXcelerator : Supports startups with
impactful stories on contemporary issues. mentorship and investor access, fostering
India has launched a $ 1 billion fund to innovation in M&E.
empower Indian content creators by giving Emphasis on AR, VR, XR, and AI to create
them access to capital, training and global immersive and engaging content.
markets.
Promotes Foreign Direct Investment (FDI),
` 391·15 crore investment for establishing
co-productions and international partner-
the Indian Institute of Creative Technolo-
gies (IICT) in Mumbai—modelled on IITs & ships.
IIMs—to nurture AVGC-XR talent. Aims to showcase India’s rich cultural
India’s Path to a $ 5 Trillion Economy heritage—including yoga, Ayurveda and
WAVES aligns with the Viksit Bharat and Ek storytelling—on the global stage.
Bharat Shreshtha Bharat missions. By 2029, WAVES 2025 envisions India as a
By nurturing the creator economy, WAVES leading force in the global creator economy,
will infuse creative energy into India's driving inclusive growth and cultural influence
journey toward a $ 5 trillion economy. through technology and collaboration.

UNLEASHING INDIA’S CREATIVE CAPITAL FOR

ECONOMIC & CULTURAL RISE
Cinema, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Global Context & Economic Potential
and Comics (AVGC) have evolved into major According to UNCTAD, the global creative
drivers of economic growth, national identity, economy is booming :
and global cultural influence. Structured skilling Generates $ 2·25 trillion and 30 million
jobs worldwide.
in AVGC is essential as it is projected to become
Indian Media and Entertainment
a $ 26 billion industry by 2030.
(M&E) sector projected to reach 3·1
India’s Vision for Global Leadership trillion by 2026 (FICCI-EY 2023).
PM Narendra Modi’s vision focuses on Indian animation and VFX sector to
transforming India into a global media and grow to $ 2·2 billion by 2026 from $ 1·3
entertainment powerhouse. billion in 2023.
Emphasis is on education and skilling in the India’s influencer market is expected to
AVGC sector as outlined in post-budget grow from 2,344 crore (2023) to 3,375
crore (2026).
guidance and the National Education Policy.
The PM highlighted that India needs skilled India’s Competitive Edge
manpower in areas like tourism, anima- India has :
tion, drones and defence. A large English-speaking population
Rich storytelling heritage
AVGC Sector Development
Leading position in YouTube creators
A task force has been created to boost and media content production
animation, VFX, gaming and comics. India must shift from outsourcing to origi-
WAVES 2025 (World Audio Visual & Enter- nal content creation to become a global
tainment Summit) is a major upcoming leader.
initiative. Global Reach of Indian Cinema
The AVGC sector is seen as a ‘sunrise Indian film, TV, music, and online video
sector’ critical for cultural innovation and generate $ 20 billion annually and employ
economic growth. nearly a million people.
 Indian films are popular globally, especially Challenges and the Way Forward
in Middle East, Africa, South & Southeast Traditional cinema education began early in
Asia, Russia, UK, USA, Japan and China. India (e.g., FTII, SRFTI), but remains largely
According to Deloitte, the indirect impact of diploma-oriented.
this sector is 3X the direct impact. Need to elevate training to university level
and create well-trained manpower.
AVGC : A Catalyst for Creative Growth
Various new initiatives including state film
India’s AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, schools, scholarships and film festivals aim
Gaming and Comics) sector is growing to bridge the skill gap.
rapidly at over 16% annually and is projected Industry figures like Subhash Ghai and
to reach $ 26 billion by 2030. Anupam Kher have launched reputed film
The AVGC sector not only entertains—it schools.
drives innovation in education, health, defence Conclusion
and e-governance through simulation and
India stands at a crucial juncture to trans-
gamification.
form its rich cultural legacy into a global creative
With 65% of its population under 35, India can force. With the right mix of policy support,
become the global supplier of creative pro- skilling, and innovation, the AVGC and media
fessionals—animators, VFX specialists, game sector can become a significant pillar of India’s
designers, motion graphic artists and creative economic and cultural rise.
coders.

INDIAN FILMS AT THE INTERNATIONAL BOX OFFICE

1. Role of Indian Films Other blockbusters : Secret Superstar,
Serve as tools for storytelling, cultural Baahubali 2, RRR, KGF Chapter 2, Pathaan,
bonding and soft power diplomacy. Pushpa 2.
Promote Indian traditions, values, systems Pardes (1997) achieved a global box office
and lifestyle across the globe. collection of US $ 5·1 million, 4th highest
Connect the Indian diaspora to their roots that year.
and influence non-diaspora audiences as 5. International Recognition
well. Indian films now part of Oscars, Cannes,
2. Global Impact and Reach IIFA and more.
The Indian film industry earns about $ 20 All We Imagine As Light by Payal Kapadia
billion annually and employs nearly a won Grand Prix at Cannes 2024.
million people. 30% increase in international box office
The global impact is seen in the fashion, revenues (2022–24) compared to 7·2%
tourism and merchandise sectors. domestic growth (E&Y report).
They are popular in regions like the Middle
East, Africa, South Asia, UK, USA, Russia, 6. Industry Evolution & Support
Japan, China and Australia. 100% FDI in film content.
3. Diaspora to Non-Diaspora Expansion Entry of global studios like Fox, Warner
Bros., Disney and Sony.
Initially fueled by diaspora demand.
Expanded through works of directors like Streaming platforms : Netflix, Amazon
Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Shekhar Prime, Jiohotstar.
Kapoor, and NRI filmmakers like Mira Nair, 7. Historical and Cultural Strength
Deepa Mehta, etc. India has a strong tradition of story-
Key international success stories include : telling through mythology, drama,
Gandhi by Richard Attenborough music and dance.
Slumdog Millionaire by Danny Boyle Indigenous storytelling helped resist
Films of Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Hollywood dominance.
Salman Khan and South Indian actors Pioneers like Dadasaheb Phalke laid
like Prabhas, Rajinikanth, Allu Arjun. the foundation in 1896.
4. Success Stories & Box Office Records Institutions like FTII Pune, NFDC and
Dangal (2016) grossed over ` 1000 crore in the International Film Festival of India
China, surpassing its domestic earnings. (IFFI) played key roles.
Conclusion ments, and policy support. It is now a recog-
Indian cinema has evolved from being nized force in global entertainment, reflecting
diaspora-driven to a global phenomenon India’s soft power and cultural richness.
through strong storytelling, technical advance-

INDIAN ANIMATION AT THE GLOBAL STAGE :

OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES AND THE ROAD AHEAD
Indian animation has transitioned from a 2. Vast Cultural Reservoir : Indian mytho-
service-based industry to a creator of original logy, epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata) and
intellectual properties (IPs) like Hanuman, Chhota folktales offer globally relatable themes.
Bheem and Motu Patlu. Backed by digital growth 3. Surging Global Demand : OTT boom
and global OTT demand, Indian animation is leads to high demand for diverse, original,
gaining global traction while showcasing India's animated content.
rich cultural narratives and creative talent. 4. Technology Integration : Use of AI,
The Evolution of Indian Animation VR/AR, motion capture, real-time rendering
Early Phase : Dominated by outsourcing enhances content quality.
services for Western studios. 5. International Collaborations : Co-pro-
Current Trend : Rise of original content ductions with countries like Japan, South Korea,
with cultural themes. France and Canada are expanding India’s global
reach.
Key Drivers :
Key Challenges
Digital revolution and internet penetra-
tion. 1. Limited Original IP Ownership : Over-
reliance on outsourcing prevents brand and
Growth of OTT platforms like Netflix,
profit development.
Amazon Prime and Disney+ Hotstar.
2. Inconsistent Quality and Standards :
Government Initiatives Boosting the Variation in production quality due to a lack of
Sector standardized curriculum and training.
1. AVGC Promotion Task Force (2022) : 3. Funding Gaps : Animation is perceived
Established by the Ministry of Information & as high-risk, with difficulty in securing long-
Broadcasting. It provides a roadmap for sectoral term investment.
growth, policy incentives and global promotion. 4. Skill Deficit : Need for advanced training
2. National AVGC-XR Mission : Focus on in storytelling, scripting, and new-age tech tools.
developing infrastructure, skilling, and inter- 5. Limited Global Market Access : Poor
national partnerships. It has proposed establish- visibility and global marketing restrict the inter-
ment of Centres of Excellence (CoEs) across national reach of Indian content.
India. The Road Ahead
3. Startup India & Make in India Support : 1. Strengthen Original IP Development :
Animation startups receive funding and incuba- Focus on creating culturally resonant, globally
tion support. It aims to promote job creation, appealing content. Encourage branding, mer-
women entrepreneurship and export-oriented chandising and franchise building.
animation products. 2. Public-Private Collaboration : Integrate
4. Skilling and Education Reforms : Intro- industry feedback in education and skill-build-
duction of animation and VFX courses in FTII, ing programs. Expand CoEs and incubators with
NID, and other institutes. Access to online international mentoring.
training through SWAYAM, FutureSkills Prime, 3. Policy and Financial Support : Establish
and other platforms. dedicated AVGC funds, simplify IP rights and
5. Incentives for International Production : provide tax incentives.
Tax rebates and financial incentives to attract 4. Global Market Integration : Participate
foreign animation projects. India emerging as a in global animation film festivals, exposition and
cost-efficient global production hub. content markets. Use soft power diplomacy to
promote Indian animated narratives abroad.
Opportunities on the Global Stage
5. Embrace Technology : Invest in AI-
1. Cost-Effective Skilled Workforce : powered animation tools, real-time rendering
Competitive talent in animation, VFX, design and cloud-based production pipelines to
and storytelling. improve efficiency.
Conclusion ments, policy support and global collaborations,
India stands at a crucial juncture where its Indian animation can move from the back-end of
cultural richness, creative talent and digital the global value chain to a frontline content
infrastructure can help it emerge as a global creator influencing narratives worldwide.
animation powerhouse. With strategic invest-

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN MEDIA AND

ENTERTAINMENT (M&E) SECTOR
India’s M&E sector is at a transformative New media and OOH are expected to
stage, evolving into a sunrise sector with high contribute 41% and 14%, respectively, to
potential for global investors. Driven by digital 2024 revenue.
adoption, a young demographic and rising Key Investment Opportunities
consumer spending.
FDI capped between 26%–100%, depending
Sectors like gaming, animation, VFX and on sub-sector (content, distribution, etc.).
out-of-home (OOH) entertainment are 100% FDI allowed in pure entertainment
experiencing rapid growth. segments like films, gaming, animation and
Government policies, FDI support and focus advertising.
on original IP creation are key enablers. The industry has attracted $ 11·5 billion in
Market Dynamics cumulative FDI since 2000, primarily in
traditional segments.
India has 971 million internet users and 690
million smartphone users, fuelling digital However rise of new media has unlocked a
plethora of new investment opportunities in
consumption.
high-growth segments.
India is 2nd-largest mobile gaming market
globally (by downloads) and the 3rd largest
Conclusion
video market. India’s M&E sector, supported by policy
incentives, tech growth and original content
Gen-Z, with 377 million+ population, contri-
creation, is becoming a global content power-
butes 48% of OOH entertainment spending. house. The sector offers diverse and dynamic
Entertainment is the 5th largest category in investment avenues ripe for both domestic and
per capita consumption expenditure. international stakeholders.

INDIA’S GLOBAL CULTURAL LEADERSHIP IN AVGC

India’s Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming creating fresh storytelling formats and posi-
and Comics (AVGC) sector is undergoing a tioning Indian studios for international success.
transformative boom, driven by rapid technolo- AVGC's Global Rise : Economic and
gical advancements, rising digital content con- Cultural Impact
sumption and a youthful, tech-savvy popula-
Fueled by digital penetration and evolving
tion. No longer a niche, AVGC has become
central to India’s media and entertainment consumer preferences, the AVGC industry is
industry. now a vibrant contributor to economic and
cultural growth. India's anime segment, for
AVGC's Role in Modern Indian Cinema
example, is gaining international popularity and
Iconic films like RRR, Baahubali, The Lion is projected to drive 60% of global anime viewer-
King, Avatar, Ponniyin Selvan I and Kalki demon- ship growth.
strate how AVGC technologies are redefining
National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for
cinematic storytelling. These productions merge
AVGC-XR
mythology and fantasy with high-end animation
and effects, creating a new era of immersive To cement India's leadership, the govern-
Indian cinema. ment is establishing a National Centre of
Excellence (NCoE) in Mumbai for AVGC-XR
From Content Consumers to Global
(Extended Reality), with FICCI and CII as
Creators
industry partners.
India is shifting from being a content con-
sumer to a content creator on the global stage. Goals of the NCoE
The fusion of Indian narratives with global Promote IP creation, startup incubation and
animation aesthetics (e.g., Japanese anime) is global outreach.
 Attract foreign investment into the Media & Salient Features of the NCoE : A Game-
Entertainment sector. Changer
Boost India’s soft power through cultural 1. Intellectual Property (IP) Creation for
exports. Global Outreach : Nurtures original Indian
Strategic Support and Education content for global markets, enhancing
India’s position in immersive storytelling.
The upcoming Indian Institute for Immer-
2. Incubation Centre for Startups : Supports
sive Creators (IIIC) aims to become a benchmark
early-stage companies with resources,
in AVGC education. It will : mentorship and growth opportunities to
Offer multidisciplinary courses in anima- encourage entrepreneurship and innova-
tion, AR/VR, AI and storytelling tion.
Partner with IITs and IIMs Conclusion
Serve as an incubator for innovation and India is strategically advancing to become a
collaboration. global powerhouse in AVGC and XR. With
This educational initiative, combined with institutional support, global vision and youth-
the NCoE, forms a comprehensive ecosystem to led innovation, the country is poised to lead the
support content creation, skill development and future of immersive digital storytelling and
international collaborations. creative content production in the 21st century.

WAVES CHALLENGES : EMPOWERING CREATIVITY,

FOSTERING OPPORTUNITY
National Initiative : The ‘Create in India through initiatives like the Anti-Piracy
Challenge – Season 1’ under WAVES 2025, Challenge, which fosters the development
led by the Ministry of Information & of tools to combat piracy.
Broadcasting, aims to nurture talent in Inclusivity : Each challenge is tailored to
AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, engage Indians from all regions and back-
Games, Comics & Extended Reality) across grounds, empowering them to present their
India.
work on a global stage.
Skilled Workforce : A diverse, skilled
Economic Potential : While the global M&E
workforce blending technical expertise and
creativity is central to India’s goal of becom- sector contributes 1-3% to GDP, India
ing a global leader in creative content. currently contributes only 0·5%. WAVES
Talent Development : Challenges are desig- seeks to bridge this gap through infra-
ned to create talent pools in both content structure growth, diaspora engagement and
creation and technology sectors, with a leveraging Indian-origin IP.
focus on innovation and digital assets. Key Objective : To increase India’s global
Security and Innovation : Emphasis is presence in the M&E sector by accelerating
placed on safeguarding IP and content creativity, innovation, business and impact.

WAVEX LIVE – ADVANCING INVESTMENT AND

INNOVATION IN MEDIA-TECH
WaveX Live is a government-backed invest- TV presence.
ment and innovation platform aimed at accelera- Expert Mentorship : Support from seasoned
ting growth in India's media-tech sector. It is industry professionals.
part of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Market Expansion : Collaboration pros-
Summit (WAVES) and will be held on May 2-3, pects with key stakeholders.
2025, at Jio World Centre, Mumbai.
Pitching Formats
Objective : To connect high-potential start-
ps in media and emerging tech with investors, 1. WaveX Boardroom (Live TV Pitching) :
mentors and policymakers, enabling funding, 5-minute pitch + 10-minute Q&A; Celebrity
mentorship and growth. investors panel.
2. WaveX Investment Arena (Open Pitch-
Key Features for Startups
ing) : 3-minute pitch + 5-minute Q&A, Inter-
Investor Access : Direct pitching to VCs and action with over ten venture capitalists.
celebrity investors. 3. Final Pitch : Startups pitch at either
National Exposure : Media coverage and Boardroom or the Investment Arena.
Eligibility Criteria for Startups 2. Expert Assessment : Innovation and
Registered in India on or after January 1, viability.
2020 3. Final Pitch : Live presentation.
Operating in domains like : Opportunities for Investors
Animation, Gaming, Comics, AR / VR Access to top Indian media-tech startups.
/ XR, Generative AI, Broadcasting, Strategic mentorship and co-investment
Film, Music, Digital Media, Radio, networking.
Advertising Investment in high-growth, early-stage
Funding stage : Bootstrapped, Pre-seed, enterprises.
Seed, or Pre-A Conclusion : WaveX Live is a forward-
Selection Process looking platform to foster innovation, invest-
ment and strategic collaboration in India’s
1. Preliminary Screening : Based on eligibility. evolving media-tech landscape.

‘PRESS IN INDIA’: A SNAPSHOT OF PRINT MEDIA’S

GROWTH AND DIVERSITY
The print media industry in India has a Resilience of Regional and Vernacular
long-standing and illustrious history. Despite Press
facing challenges from digital disruption, the Marathi : Circulation rose from 3·15 crore to
rise of the internet and emerging AI technolo- 3·66 crore.
gies, it continues to play a vital role in informing Urdu : From 2·61 crore to 2·46 crore.
the public and supporting democratic values Telugu : Reached over 2·13 crore.
and development. This signifies strong trust and consumption
of non-English print media in India.
Steady Growth Amid Digital Disruption
State-Wise Highlights
Indian print media has shown consistent Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of
growth over recent years. The number of registered publications (21,660).
registered publications grew from 1·18 lakh in Maharashtra follows with 20,488 publica-
2017-18 to 1·48 lakh in 2022-23, reflecting both tions.
resilience and the ability to adapt to evolving The regional distribution confirms the wide-
media ecosystems and reader preferences. spread appeal and importance of print across
India.
Linguistic and Cultural Plurality
New Registrations and Challenges
The sector highlights India’s linguistic and Despite a few closures (34 periodicals ceased
cultural diversity. Hindi is the most used in 2022-23), the number of registered titles con-
language in print, with registered periodicals tinues to rise. In 2022-23 alone, 4,772 new titles
growing from 47,989 (2017-18) to 57,050 (2022- were verified, showing sustained interest in
23). English follows, with 20,042 publications by starting new publications.
2022-23. Other regional languages like Marathi, In conclusion, even as digital media rises,
India’s print media remains strong, playing a
Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, and Malayalam also
crucial role in public discourse, education and
report impressive circulation and readership, democratic engagement. It continues to evolve,
indicating a literate and media-engaged popula- adapt and serve as a trusted medium for millions
tion across states. across the country.

INDIAN WOMEN REWRITE THEIR FINANCIAL FUTURES

India's growth story has become a global growth reflects a shift from passive aid
case study of resilience, innovation and inclusive recipients to active financial leaders.
development, significantly driven by financially 2. Credit Health Improvements (2024
empowered women. Between 2019 and 2024, CIBIL Scores) : 39% of women borrowers fall in
women seeking credit tripled, showing rising the Prime score (731–770). 7% in Super Prime
(791–900), and 16% each in Prime Plus and
financial participation and independence.
Sub Prime tiers. Indicates improving financial
Key Findings of the Report behaviour and repayment discipline.
1. Credit Demand Surge : Women seeking 3. Rise in Self-Monitoring Women
credit increased 3x between 2019 and 2024. This Borrowers : Increased from 1 million (2018) to 27
million (2024). Indicates growing financial welfare, drives entrepreneurship and boosts
literacy and responsibility among women, economic resilience. Women-led MSMEs
especially in smaller towns. enhance India’s industrial base, supply chains,
Demographic Insights and export potential.
Rural & Semi-Urban Dominance : Two- Government Support and Policy Shift :
thirds of women borrowers are from non-metro Initiatives like PMJDY, MUDRA Yojana and
regions, indicating deeper financial inclusion. Stand-Up India played a key role. Women’s
Age-Wise Distribution : 52% of self- financial empowerment is now integrated into
monitoring women are Millennials. 22% are Gen mainstream economic and policy thinking.
Z, which rose from 24·87% (2023) to 27·14% Conclusion
(2024). This era, led by PM Narendra Modi, has
Regional Trends : Southern states lead in witnessed a remarkable shift women transform-
numbers; Rajasthan, UP and MP show the ing from underrepresented workforce to econo-
highest growth. mic drivers. Empowered women are now
Second-Order Benefits : Financial shaping India’s growth through resilience,
empowerment of women enhances family innovation and credit-savviness.
 PM VISHWAKARMA & COOPERATIVES MSMES : A CASE
FOR COLLECTIVE GROWTH
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises These cooperatives contribute significantly
(MSMEs) and cooperatives together form the to production, distribution and social control
backbone of India's rural and grassroots eco- over local resources.
nomy. Their synergy promotes inclusive, 3. MSMEs : Drivers of Inclusive Growth
sustainable and bottom-up development by
As of April 2025, there are 6·24 crore
engaging local communities in production,
MSMEs in India, employing over 26 crore
innovation and entrepreneurship.
people. They contribute :
1. PM Vishwakarma Scheme and 33% of India’s GDP
Cooperative Opportunities 48% of total exports
Launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra The reclassification of MSMEs from 1st
Modi on 17th September, 2023, the PM Vishwa- April, 2025 is as follows :
karma Scheme provides holistic support to
Type Investment in Plant & Annual Turnover
traditional artisans and craftspeople across 18
Machinery (` crore) (` crore)
trades. The scheme encompasses :
Micro Up to 2·5 Up to 10
Credit support (collateral-free loans)
Small Up to 25 Up to 100
Skill training
Modern tools Medium Up to 125 Up to 500
Digital transactions incentives These changes aim to align enterprises with
Market linkage support the evolving market needs, formalize the
For cooperatives registered under the informal sector and ensure access to government
MSME Ministry, the scheme offers : support schemes.
Quality certification
Branding support 4. Self-Help Groups : Women-Led
E-commerce onboarding Development
Co-operatives and PM Vishwakarma : In addition to cooperatives, Self-Help
Groups (SHGs) also play a vital role in the
Enhance visibility and sales of cooperative
MSME landscape :
and artisanal products.
3·64 lakh SHGs are registered with the
Increase profitability through collective
MSME Ministry.
marketing.
Primarily led by women, these groups pro-
Build a supportive ecosystem that enables
mote savings, credit access and micro-
skill upgradation, innovation and know-
ledge sharing. enterprise.
They are crucial agents of social empower-
2. Cooperatives : Empowering Community
ment and economic inclusion.
MSMEs
5. Policy Support & Institutional Frame-
Cooperatives are self-supporting, commu-
work
nity-based business associations that operate on
values of democracy, mutual help and joint Since Independence, the Indian government
ownership. They have played a crucial role since has emphasized rural industrialization :
pre-Independence India (Cooperative Credit 1956–61 : Second Five-Year Plan focused on
Societies Act, 1904), and today, they thrive as village industries.
micro and small enterprises. Examples include : 1960s : Formation of SIDO and District
Amul (Anand Milk Union Ltd.) Industries Centres.
IFFCO, KRIBHCO (Fertilizer Cooperatives) 2006 : MSMED Act replaced ‘SSI’ with
NAFED (Agricultural Marketing) ‘MSME’; criteria based on investment in
According to Table 1 from Udyam plant & machinery.
Registration Portal 2020–2025 : Definitions updated to include
34,897 cooperatives are registered as MSMEs turnover, removed manufacturing Vs.
(as of April 2025) : service distinctions.
34,136 micro Key Schemes Supporting MSMEs
635 small Prime Minister’s Employment Generation
126 medium Programme (PMEGP)
 Credit Guarantee Scheme belief systems that can transform livelihoods
Procurement and Marketing Support into member-owned, profitable enterprises.
Scheme Conclusion
Udyam Registration
The convergence of the PM Vishwakarma
Technology Upgradation Support
Scheme with cooperative MSMEs offers a robust
6. Vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat blueprint for collective growth. By empowering
Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions grassroots entrepreneurs and traditional artisans,
cooperatives and MSMEs as the bedrock of a
India is fostering a more inclusive, resilient and
self-reliant India, uplifting occupations like :
self-sustaining economy. Together, MSMEs and
Weavers, artisans, florists, potters, tailors,
vendors and more. cooperatives form a dynamic force to drive
He emphasizes that cooperatives are not innovation, reduce inequalities and build an
just economic structures, but community-driven economy that leaves no one behind.

MSMEs EMPOWERED BY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

MSMEs need integration with scientific and ‘NIDHI-Technology Business Incubator’
technological solutions to convert public-funded Programme to Foster Technological
R&D into products and processes. Science & Innovations
Technology (S&T) schemes provide MSMEs with Launched by DST under NIDHI (National
innovation resources, making them globally Initiative for Developing and Harnessing
competitive. MSMEs are gaining global identity Innovations).
through indigenous innovations. These initia- Promotes innovation and entrepreneurship
tives have made MSMEs focal to innovation, in MSMEs.
employment and rural upliftment. Provides support through incubators in
Common Research and Technology Deve- educational, technical and management
lopment Hub (CRTDH) institutions.
Promotes regional economic development Offers infrastructure like labs, design
and competitiveness in MSME clusters. rooms, internet and IP/legal services.
Launched in 2014–15 by the Department of Enables MSMEs to commercialize new
Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). products and access funding and markets.
Encourages youth entrepreneurship and
Aims to promote tech innovation, address
aligns innovations with national priorities.
IP issues, accelerate tech dev, foster colla-
boration and provide S&T solutions. Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund
Offers collaborative platforms for MSMEs Aims to empower MSMEs under Atma-
for IP rights, skills dev, new markets and nirbhar Bharat.
customer needs. Designed to leverage private sector strength
for growth capital.
Grants provided for R&D, prototype design, Objectives :
pilot production, exhibitions and analytical Equity funding to MSMEs.
testing. Supporting MSMEs via private invest-
18 CRTDHs established in areas like elec- ments.
tronics, clean energy, water, food and Help MSMEs expand globally.
healthcare. Encourage import substitution.
CSIR Mega Innovation Complex for Assist MSMEs in creating market-ready
MSMEs goods and technologies.
Set up by CSIR (Council of Scientific and CREATE (Centre for Rural Enterprise
Industrial Research) to provide world-class Acceleration through Technology)
S&T support to MSMEs. CREATE aims to empower rural entre-
Offers ‘ready-to-move’ incubation labs and preneurs by providing technological sup-
port, fostering innovation and enhancing
networking spaces across nine floors.
business development in rural areas.
Supports partnership between MSMEs and It serves as a platform to connect rural
start-ups, CSIR labs, deep-tech firms, and enterprises with scientific institutions,
CSIR abroad. helping them adopt new technologies,
Facilities support innovation, product dev improve productivity and scale up sustain-
and global market access. ably.
 MSME Champion Scheme MSME - Cluster Development Programme

The initiative promotes inclusive growth by CRTDH, CSIR Innovation Complexes, NIDHI-
facilitating access to research, incubation, TBI, and CREATE are equipping them with
mentorship, and market linkages for rural research, tech support, and entrepreneurial
MSMEs and startups.
tools. These efforts are boosting rural develop-
Conclusion ment, employment and inclusive growth,
Science and technology are transforming making MSMEs key drivers of self-reliant and
MSMEs into innovative and globally competi- sustainable progress.
tive enterprises. Government initiatives like

NAVIGATING THE FUTURE OF MSME FINANCES

MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enter-
prises) are vital for inclusive growth and rural
industrialization. They contribute to about one-
third of India’s GDP, 45% of exports and employ
over 26·6 crore people (as of 2025). MSMEs
operate in diverse sectors like textiles, food
processing, auto parts and even components for
ISRO’s Chandrayaan.
Budget 2025 raised these ceilings by 2·5 x
(Investment) and 2 x (Turnover), effective from
April 2025. Classification is based on registration
under the Udyam Registration Portal (URP) or
the Udyam Assist Platform (UAP).
Strengthening the MSMEs
Credit Access and MSME Finance PMMY (MUDRA Yojana) : Loans up to
MSMEs are under Priority Sector Lending ` 10 lakh for small/non-corporate units.
(PSL)–40% of Adjusted Net Bank Credit Reforms and Digitalisation
(ANBC) of banks.
Aadhaar-based URP/UAP registration
7·5% of ANBC must be for Micro Enter-
prises. simplified formalization.
Collateral-free loans up to ` 10 lakh under New classification criteria (investment +
PMEGP; up to ` 25 lakh possible for strong turnover) replaced the old investment-only
MSMEs. model.
RBI mandates 20% year-on-year credit States with the highest registered MSMEs :
growth in Micro and Small Enterprises. Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.
Credit Guarantee and Schemes Top Sectors in URP/UAP
Credit Guarantee Scheme (CGTMSE) : Trade, textiles, food processing, manufac-
Increased loan guarantee limit from ` 5 turing, construction, auto, hospitality, trans-
crore to ` 10 crore.
port, health and education dominate.
ECLGS (Emergency Credit Line Guarantee
Scheme) : Offered during COVID-19 for Conclusion
liquidity. MSMEs are critical to India’s economic
Self-Reliant India Fund : ` 50,000 crore to fabric. The Budget 2025 and policy reforms aim
support MSMEs through equity funding. to expand formalization, ease of credit, and
PM Vishwakarma : Supports artisans with global competitiveness. The shift toward
training and formal credit. inclusive growth and ease of doing business
PMEGP : Employment generation via positions MSMEs as key drivers of Atmanirbhar
financial assistance to start businesses. Bharat.

REVITALIZING INDIAN MSMEs

Vision & Importance Export-oriented MSMEs can now access
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises loans up to 20 crore under new frameworks.
(MSMEs) are central to realizing India’s $5 3. Dedicated MSME Credit Cards via Udyam
trillion economy vision. Contributing 45·73% of Portal :
exports and employing over 25 crore people, Customized Credit Cards launched for
MSMEs are the second-largest employment micro enterprises.
generators after agriculture. The Union Budget Provide credit support up to ` 5 lakh,
2025–26 positions them as key drivers of benefiting 10 lakh+ units.
inclusive, decentralized and sustainable indus- 4. Boosting Startups & First-Time Entrepre-
trial growth. neurs :
Key Reforms & Policy Highlights ` 10,000 crore Fund of Funds to expand
1. Revised MSME Classification Criteria : early-stage financing.
Investment & turnover limits have been 2 crore loans for 5 lakh SC/ST entre-
raised : preneurs through a dedicated scheme.
Micro : ` 2·5 crore investment & ` 10 Focus on inclusive growth, entrepreneurial
crore turnover (up from ` 1 crore & ` 5 decen-tralization and job creation.
crore). Sector-Specific & Structural Support
Small : ` 25 crore & 100 crore (from ` 1. Labour-Intensive & Traditional Industries :
10 crore & ` 50 crore). Focus Product Scheme for footwear and
Medium : ` 125 crore & ` 500 crore leather :
(from ` 50 crore & ` 250 crore). Targets design innovation, component
This reform eases the ‘fear of graduation’, manufacturing and non-leather expan-
enabling smoother scaling-up. sion.
2. Strengthened Credit Access : Aims to create 22 lakh jobs and gene-
Credit Guarantee limit doubled from ` 5 rate ` 4 lakh crore turnover.
crore to 10 crore, unlocking ` 1·5 lakh crore Dedicated scheme for the toy sector :
in additional credit. Promotes cluster development, skill-
Interest rate cut to 1% for 27 priority sectors. building and exports.
 Aims to make India a global toy manu- Empowering Enterprises through Policy
facturing hub. Innovation
Establishment of a National Food Tech 1. PM–Vishwakarma :
Institute in Bihar to catalyze eastern India's Enables the recognition of artisans and
food processing. craftspeople of Vishwakarma, making them
2. Clean Manufacturing & Industrial Moder- eligible to avail the benefits.
nization : Provides skill upgradation to hone the
Launch of National Manufacturing Mission : skills, make relevant and suitable training
Provides roadmaps for small to large opportuni-ties.
enterprises. Provides support for better and modern
Integrates MSMEs into industrial value tools.
chains to improve competitiveness. Provides beneficiaries on easy access to
Push for clean tech manufacturing in line collateral free credit and reduce the cost of
with green goals : credit by providing interest subvention.
Boosts domestic production of solar Provides incentives for digital transactions
PVs, EVs, wind turbines, batteries, etc. to encourage digital empowerment of
Positions MSMEs as leaders in the Vishwakarmas.
global clean energy revolution. Provides a platform for brand promotion
and market linkages.
Budget Commitment and Economic
2. Udyam Registration Portal–Strengthen-
Resilience
ing India’s MSMEs Backbone :
23,168·15 crore allocated to the Ministry of Udyam registration is a simple, online and
MSME (from 22,137·95 crore in 2024–25). free registration process based on self-
Despite fiscal pressures, this signals strong declaration.
recovery efforts. An enterprise can register online on the
MSME sector’s GVA rose from 27.3% to Udyam Registration Portal of the Ministry
30.1% of GDP (2020–21 to 2022–23), show- of MSME.
ing resilience. 3. Prime Minister Employment Generation
Export-Led Growth & Global Integration Programme (PMEGP)–Fueling Self-Reliance
MSME exports tripled from ` 3·95 lakh through Microenterprise Development :
crore (2020–21) to ` 12·39 lakh crore (2024– Objectives : Assisting exisiting units for
25). expansion and upgradation, the scheme
provides financial assistance to successful/
Share in India’s total exports jumped from
well performing units. The scheme also
23% to 45·79% (as of May 2024). caters to the need of the entrepreneurs for
Growth supported by: bringing new technology/automation so as
Digital trade tools to modernize the existing unit.
Market access facilitation Key Benefits : Maximum subsidy would be
Product standardization 15% of the project cost (20% for NER and
Cluster Development and Institutional Hill States). The balance amount of the total
Strengthening project cost is provided by Bank as a term
loan.
Micro and Small Enterprises Cluster Deve-
lopment Programme (MSE-CDP) : Enhances Scheme Applicable for Existing well per-
productivity and infrastructure. Develops forming PMECP/REGP/MUDRA units.
new industrial estates and flatted factory 4. SFURTI–Reviving Traditions, Empower-
complexes. ing Artisans :
Strengthened Credit Guarantee Trust Fund Objective :
(CGTMSE) and expanded access via banks Organize traditional industries and artisans
and NBFCs. into clusters to make them competitive and
provide support for their long-term sustain-
New National Institute for MSMEs to train
ability.
master trainers and support skill develop-
To provide sustained employment for tradi-
ment.
tional industry artisans and rural enterpre-
Our Small Hands to Make You LARGE : A neurs.
powerful expression of the transformational To strengthen the cluster governance
potential of India’s MSME workforce—the true systems with the active participation of the
backbone of grassroots industrialization. stakeholders.
Key Benefits : Conclusion
Financial support The Union Budget 2025–26 marks a
Skill Development trainings transformative leap for India's MSME sector,
blending financial support, institutional reform
Buyer Seller Meets and sector-specific incentives. With a strong
Marketing support push towards clean tech, exports and inclusive
Digitalization support entrepreneurship, MSMEs are being positioned
as the engines of growth, innovation and
Scheme Applicable for : Existing artisans
employment. These reforms reaffirm the govern-
from traditional industries, Cluster of Artisans ment’s commitment to building a resilient, self-
in sectors such as Handicarft, Textile, Agro- reliant economy driven by empowered small
Processing, Bamboo, Honey Coir, Khadi etc. enterprises.

FROM INVISIBLE TO INVINCIBLE : MARKETING THE

MSME WAY
In today’s digitally connected world, national trade fairs, exhibitions and buyer-
marketing for Micro, Small, and Medium Enter- seller meets.
prises (MSMEs) has transformed dramatically. Enhances export potential and global
No longer confined to pamphlets or local exposure of MSMEs.
hoardings, the market has become boundaryless,
driven by delivery capabilities rather than 2. Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM)
location. This shift has enabled MSMEs to Initiative
transcend physical storefronts and compete Aims to build MSME capacity for marketing
globally using targeted digital strategies. and branding, particularly through digital
tools.
Key Highlights :
Supports onboarding on e-commerce plat-
1. The Digital Marketing Revolution for forms and helps MSMEs align with market
MSMEs trends.
Traditional marketing was expensive and 3. Open Network for Digital Commerce
locally restricted.
(ONDC)
Digital platforms like Google Business, SEO,
social media and email marketing allow A government-backed digital commerce
MSMEs to reach their ideal audience with network to democratize online selling.
minimal investment. Enables even the smallest MSMEs to
Personalized messaging through AI tools participate in India’s growing e-commerce
(like Siri or Alexa) is redefining customer ecosystem
engagement and product discovery. 4. Small Business, Big Branding—Aware-ness
2. Benefits of Digital Marketing of IPR
Affordability: Even small businesses can Promotes understanding of Intellectual
now create high-impact campaigns without Property Rights (IPRs) among MSMEs.
huge budgets.
Encourages protection and monetization of
Precision Targeting: Advanced analytics
innovative products and brand identities.
enable MSMEs to deliver the right message
at the right time. 5. Comfort Marketing and Digital Empower-
Global Reach, Local Relevance: MSMEs ment of Rural MSMEs
can cater to global markets while using Focuses on bringing rural MSMEs into the
tools like hyper-local SEO to stay relevant to digital mainstream.
their core customer base. Ensures they benefit from digital marketing,
3. Breaking Geographical Barriers training, and e-commerce access, improving
The rise of smartphones, e-commerce and competitiveness and income.
digital assistants has made it crucial for
MSMEs to have an online presence. The Future is Boundaryless
Consumers today discover products via Marketing today is not limited by region or
search engines and recommendations, not infrastructure. Digital transformation, combined
by walking past a store. with strategic government support, is allowing
Government Support Schemes India’s MSMEs to think big, act local and grow
Empowering MSME Marketing global. As the digital wave continues, those who
1. International Cooperation (IC) Scheme embrace innovation and visibility will thrive in
Facilitates MSME participation in inter- the boundaryless marketplace of the future.
 1- 15 May
FIXING FOOD : ADDRESSING HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT
IN RAMNAGAR, UTTARAKHAND
Frequent crop raids by wild animals like Additional Measures
elephants, deer and nilgai are affecting sub- Restoration of elephant corridors, especially
sistence farmers near Jim Corbett National Park. in Bechauri range : Replacing timber planta-
Root Cause tions with grasslands (target : 100 ha by
Large-scale monoculture plantations of teak 2025).
and eucalyptus (1973–1993) replaced native Benefits of Mixed-Species Plantations
ecosystems. Encourage biodiversity.
These trees : offer little ecological value;
Enhance soil moisture and regeneration.
deplete groundwater (eucalyptus); Have
allelopathic effects, inhibiting growth of Support undergrowth and wildlife habitat.
other species. Reduce erosion and improve ecological
New Forest Management Approach resilience.
Ramnagar forest division is shifting to Expert Opinions
mixed-species plantations (since 2023). Need for an ecosystem-based approach.
Replacing monoculture with native, fruit- Restoration of grasslands and wetlands
bearing trees such as Jamun, Amla, Siras, alongside forests is vital.
Khair, Kanju, Semal
Strategy must focus on ecological diversity,
Provide food and shelter for wildlife within
habitat connectivity and climate resilience.
forests, reducing crop raids.

WATER CRISIS - AGRICULTURE

Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, Shift to Water-Intensive Crops
is facing a severe groundwater crisis, especially The Green Revolution encouraged a switch
in its western regions. Increasing dependence on from traditional, less water-intensive crops
borewells, water-intensive crops, and weak (millets, pulses) to sugarcane, paddy, and
canal infrastructure has led to unsustainable wheat.
water extraction, threatening agricultural sus-
These crops are supported by MSP and
tainability and livelihoods.
provide better market returns.
Groundwater Overexploitation in UP Producing 1 kg of rice in UP uses 649 litres
UP extracted 46·76 billion cubic metres of groundwater, 1·5 times the national
(bcm) of groundwater in 2024, the highest in average.
the country. Despite low yields in western UP, these
238 bcm cumulatively extracted between three crops occupy 75% of the cultivated
2013–2023—enough to meet domestic needs area.
for 47 years. Governance and Policy Gaps
90% of this groundwater is used for
Fragmented water governance among
agriculture.
multiple departments : Jal Shakti (overall
Groundwater extraction beyond 70% of water policy); Ground Water Department
annual recharge is unsustainable—38 of 75 (monitoring); Agriculture (efficiency pro-
districts crossed this mark in 2024. motion); Forest and Panchayati Raj (con-
5 western districts (including Saharanpur) servation and local governance); Lack of
extracted over 100% of their annual coordination and enforcement of borewell
recharge. regulations; Many farmers bypass registra-
Decline of Traditional Irrigation Systems tion requirements for borewells.
Earlier dependence on rain-fed canals and Constraints in Crop Diversification
monsoons has diminished. Attempts to shift to millets and pulses are
Canals are now defunct due to siltation and hindered by : Stray cattle (e.g., nilgai) are
irregular water supply. destroying fields; Lack of fencing and
Farmers prefer tubewells for convenience compensation mechanisms; Poor procure-
and reliability, leading to annual reboring. ment infrastructure for alternative crops.
Micro-Irrigation as a Solution—Slow Successful adopters have seen 50% yield
Progress increases and 30–40% water savings.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana Conclusion
(PMKSY) promotes micro-irrigation with The water crisis in UP is a result of policy
subsidies (55% for small/marginal farmers, neglect, unsustainable farming practices and a
45% for others). lack of irrigation reforms. While programs
UP has adopted it poorly—only 4% of farm- like PMKSY offer hope, their limited reach and
lack of farmer support slow progress. A shift to
land is covered (vs. Karnataka’s 22%).
water-efficient crops, better canal management,
In Saharanpur, only 0·4% of cultivated land and integrated water governance are critical for
is under micro-irrigation. long-term sustainability.

A SIZEABLE THREAT
Obesity Among Elephants 3. Other Diseases :
In 2023, a makhna elephant in Tamil Nadu Anthrax : Killed elephants in Tamil Nadu
was found to weigh 6,000 kg, far above the and Assam (2020–21); spreads via soil,
average of 4,500–5,000 kg. water, and plants.
Crop-raiding elephants have a sedentary Rabies : Caused by dog bites.
lifestyle, consuming nutrient-rich crops in a
Haemorrhagic Septicaemia : Killed 6
short span and resting, unlike wild
elephants in Odisha (2021); originates in
elephants that forage for 16–18 hours daily.
cattle, spreads via water.
Forest veterinarian Rajesh Kumar reports
four such obesity cases between 2020–2023.
Risk Factors Due to Human Interaction
Diseases Affecting Elephants Elephants foraging in garbage dumps are
exposed to processed food, leading to salt
1. Tuberculosis (TB) :
addiction and behavioral changes.
First confirmed in wild elephants in
Wayanad (Kerala) in 2007, 2010, and 2013. Transmissible diseases spread easily due to
Spread via human contact or contaminated their frequent use of trunks and exposure to
water sources; bacteria reside in the trunk, contaminated surfaces.
which elephants use to interact. Human-elephant conflict and habitat loss
Total of six wild cases reported as of 2023. increase contact opportunities for disease
IUCN Asian Elephant Specialist Group transmission.
(2023-24) warns of TB spreading from Conservation Concerns
captive to wild elephants during safaris or India has 28,000–30,000 elephants (2023
habitat sharing.
MoEFCC report).
2. EEHV (Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes-
virus) : Despite the highest legal protection under
A highly fatal haemorrhagic disease (85% the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, they face
fatality), mainly affecting young elephants. emerging health threats.
Reported 12 deaths (2009–2021) in India. Wildlife experts warn of long-term impacts
Spread through saliva, breast milk, nasal/ on elephant population, birth rates and
vaginal secretions and shared water or food. fecundity due to increasing disease burden.

INDIA, WARMING & AEROSOLS

Aerosols from fossil fuels, industry and Health impact is severe : over 2 million
crop burning reflect or absorb sunlight, premature deaths annually from polluted
causing a cooling effect that masks actual air.
warming.
Reducing pollution may increase heat and
India’s aerosol mix includes black carbon,
ozone levels, affecting health, agriculture
which traps heat, complicating climate
patterns. and productivity.
Studies show air pollution reductions (e.g., Experts call for integrated climate, air, and
during lockdown) led to cooler tempera- energy policies to balance health and
tures, indicating aerosols play a strong role. warming risks.
 RESURRECTION BY PROXY
The Science Behind De-Extinction dasyurids and dunnarts is underway.
Colossal Biosciences has used CRISPR gene Dodo : DNA sequenced from preserved
editing and cloning to create pups that skull. Closest relative : Nicobar pigeon.
resemble the extinct dire wolf. Goal: Revive the bird to restore seed
These pups are genetically modified gray dispersal in Mauritius.
wolves with 20 edits across 14 genes, not Passenger Pigeon : US non-profit Revive and
true dire wolves. Restore is attempting revival to help forest
DNA was extracted from ancient fossil regeneration in North America.
remains (13,000 year old tooth, 72,000 year Challenges and Ethical Concerns
old skull), sequenced and compared with Concerns over ecosystem impacts, animal
gray wolf DNA. welfare and behavioral uncertainties.
Edits included genes for body size (LCORL Skepticism about ecological benefits (e.g.,
gene) and coat colour. Dark-coat genes were climate control via mammoths) without
silenced to avoid health risks, resulting in a self-sustaining populations.
white coat. Lack of full transparency on the exact
The cloning process involved transferring genome edits made by Colossal.
the edited DNA into an egg cell and
Technological Hurdles
implanting embryos into surrogate dogs.
In birds, gene editing is more complex. It
Defining De-Extinction
involves creating chimeric embryos by
Colossal defines de-extinction as creating manipulating germ cells and using surro-
‘proxies’ or ecological substitutes of extinct gate eggs.
species, in line with the IUCN's broader Mammalian cloning is more established, but
definition. still has limitations regarding viability and
Experts argue this is not a true resurrection health outcomes.
but rather genetic mimicry with limited
Conclusion
behavioral resemblance.
‘Resurrection by Proxy’ sheds light on the
Other Species Targeted
promise and perils of using biotechnology for
Woolly Mammoth : Being recreated using
de-extinction. While Colossal and others aim to
Asian elephant DNA (shares 98% simi-
larity). revive extinct species for ecological restoration
Aim : Reintroduce into the Arctic to help and scientific curiosity, the field faces major
combat global warming by altering snow technical, ethical, and ecological questions.
cover. These creatures are not resurrected species but
Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger) : Genome engineered approximations—living proxies, not
sequenced; gene editing in marsupials like true rebirths.

GOD COMPLEX : DOES DE-EXTINCTION PROVIDE ANY

CONSERVATION BENEFITS OR IS IT JUST ANOTHER
ATTEMPT TO SHOW OFF TECHNICAL PROWESS ?
De-extinction—the attempt to ‘revive’ Tauros Programme : Seeks to recreate
extinct species using biotechnology—has spar- functionally similar wild cattle (tauros) but
ked fierce debate. Companies like Colossal rejects the idea of truly reviving the extinct
Biosciences Inc. claim breakthroughs, but many aurochs.
scientists and ethicists question both the science Ethical and Ecological Concerns
and ethics behind such efforts. Undermining Conservation : Risk of
Definition Dilemma reducing seriousness around species
extinction by implying reversibility.
IUCN Criticism : De-extinction is a
Resource Diversion : Funding may shift
misleading term, suggesting full from current conservation efforts to flashy
resurrection of extinct species in genetic, de-extinction projects.
behavioural and ecological terms—which is Invasiveness & Risks : Reintroduced
not realistically possible. species might :
 Become invasive The Case for Plants
Spread new diseases More Promise in Botany : True plant
Disrupt existing ecological balance species can be revived using viable seeds
Animal Welfare Issues from herbaria. Requires non-invasive tech-
niques and specific germination protocols.
Cloning Dangers : Past examples like Dolly Underfunded and Overlooked : De-
the Sheep and the cloned Pyrenean ibex extinction projects favour animals, ignoring
suffered from health issues, premature extinct plants that may be more viable for
death. revival.
Surrogacy Issues : Size mismatch (e.g., Alternative Use of Biotechnology
mammoth in elephant womb); Rejection by Gene Editing for Conservation : Useful for
surrogate mothers; Absence of social learn- improving genetic diversity in fragmented
ing from elders populations. Helps populations adapt to
Scientific Challenges diseases and environmental stress. More
immediate and practical conservation bene-
Technologies Used : Cloning, genetic
fits than de-extinction.
engineering, and back-breeding all pose
health and welfare risks.
Conclusion
De-extinction may offer limited scientific
Eco-zombies : Term coined to describe
value and more significant ethical, ecological
animals revived without proper ecological
and welfare concerns. Conservation experts urge
function.
a focus on preserving extant species, restoring
Habitat Concerns : No suitable rewilding habitats and using biotechnology responsibly to
zones, especially for Ice Age species like enhance existing biodiversity, rather than
woolly mammoths. chasing the illusion of resurrecting the past.

THE MISSING HEART OF PANDEMIC TREATY

Background Unconditional pathogen access.
After three years of negotiation post- Full IP rights protection.
COVID-19, the WHO's Intergovernmental Recognition of the treaty as a
Negotiating Body (INB) finalized a draft Special International Instrument
pandemic treaty on April 16, 2025. (SII) under the Nagoya Protocol.
Achievements Offers minimal returns—only 10% of real-
The draft reflects a triumph of multilateral time production for low-income countries.
consensus, with 194 member states 3. Technology Transfer
(excluding the US) agreeing on basic Article 11 mentions voluntary tech
outlines. sharing on ‘mutually agreed terms’.
It includes the establishment of a Pathogen No mandatory provisions for
Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS), technology transfer.
though as an annex, not as a central part. Developed nations blocked efforts to
Key Issues and Limitations make tech transfer compulsory.
1. Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing Private companies can refuse tech
(PABS) : sharing and developing countries have
Designed to ensure rapid sharing of limited recourse.
genetic material and access to vaccines/ 4. Vaccine Inequity Still Unaddressed
therapies. The draft does not resolve the global
However, only 20% of vaccine output is vaccine inequality seen during COVID-
to be shared : 10% donated, 10% at 19 (e.g., <2% vaccinated in poor nations
affordable rates, depending on the vs >90% in rich nations by 2021).
capacity of each manufacturer. Many countries still lack vaccine manu-
Details are vague and deferred to facturing capacity, making them
future negotiations (ending in May dependent.
2026). 5. Weak Language and Lack of Enforcement
2. Intellectual Property and Pharma Lobby : Provisions are non-binding, using
The pharmaceutical industry (IFPMA) vague terms like ‘when deemed appro-
demands : priate’.
 Few new obligations for member- on PABS and technology transfer, which are core
states, risking poor implementation. to pandemic equity. Without firm commitments,
Conclusion it is unlikely to truly strengthen global health
The treaty is a diplomatic milestone, not a security. At best, it offers a broad framework for
transformative step. It lacks concrete provisions future action, not a comprehensive solution.

GULLY EROSION : AN ALARMING FORM OF

LAND DEGRADATION
Gully erosion is one of the most aggressive in urban areas. Overgrazing and improper
yet under-recognized forms of land degradation. irrigation systems. Land-use changes and
It involves the formation of deep channels in the population pressure.
soil due to surface and subsurface runoff, Role of Climate Change : Alters rainfall
resulting in significant ecological, agricultural patterns, intensifies storms and reduces
and socio-economic consequences. vegetation cover. Increases frequency and
Nature and Impact of Gully Erosion severity of gully formation.
Definition & Characteristics : Deep Management and Mitigation
erosional channels formed by runoff water. Challenges : Difficult to predict gully
More destructive than sheet or rill erosion locations. High cost and complexity of
due to high specific soil loss. mitigation measures.
Widespread Occurrence : Found in 19 Suggested Measures :
Indian states and the National Capital Reactive land management post-gully
Region. 77 districts in India have unmana- formation.
ged or active gullies requiring intervention.
Vegetation establishment, check dams,
Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh,
gully plugging.
and Rajasthan are worst worst-affected.
Consequences : Loss of fertile topsoil—up Runoff attenuation, diversion and soil
to 10 tonnes/ha/year in some regions. conservation.
Formation of ‘badlands’, reducing agri- Creating wetlands from eroded areas to
cultural productivity. Leads to food regenerate vegetation.
insecurity, water stress and village Conclusion
abandonment. Poses a threat to achieving 9 Gully erosion is a silent ecological crisis
out of 17 SDGs, including Zero Hunger and threatening land productivity and rural
Climate Action. livelihoods. With climate change aggravating its
Causes of Gully Erosion spread, urgent rehabilitative and preventive
Natural and Anthropogenic Drivers : High- actions are essential. India must integrate
intensity, short-duration rainfall. Deforesta- science-based land management practices to
tion and unplanned road construction. Poor meet its commitment to Land Degradation
drainage and solid waste mismanagement Neutrality by 2030.

GUARDIANS OF GROVES – WOMEN-LED FOREST REVIVAL

IN UTTARAKHAND
About Leadership and Initiative
Village : Manar, Champawat district, Bhagirathi Devi, age 75, led the revival
Uttarakhand effort; earned the title ‘Van Amma’ (Mother
Population : 700 residents of the Forest).
Forest Area Revived : 11·6 hectares She mobilized local women to form a Van
Background Panchayat (community forest management
By 2000, the local 12 hectare forest was group) in 2000.
degraded due to overgrazing and Served as sarpanch unopposed till 2024.
deforestation. Silvopasture Efforts
Decline in forest cover led to reduced spring Supported by BAIF Development Research
water flow. Foundation, Pune.
Women had to walk 7–8 km daily to collect The Silvopasture Management Committee
fodder and firewood. was formed with 100 members.
 Adopted sustainable practices like : Fire Prevention
Fencing using stones and thorny plants The forest is opened in March annually to
(e.g., rambaans, kunja) remove dry leaves.
Removing invasive species (lantana) Result : Zero forest fire incidents reported
Planting native fodder and tree species so far.
(baanj, angu, utish) Water Resources Rejuvenated
Watering plants manually from home Streams feeding three local springs (Seem,
sources Sitrani Khola, Gungkhani) have been
Banning animal grazing for 2 years revived.
Funding and Labour Flow increased from 2·8 to 4 litres/minute
(2017–2021).
Workers are paid ` 120/day (similar to
MGNREGA rates). Springs now support 8–10 villages.
10% of wages are contributed voluntarily Outcomes
for forest maintenance. 11·6 ha of forest regenerated
Villagers pay ` 20/month for a forest guard Sustainable community management model
(Bhagirathi Devi’s salary). Improved biodiversity and water security
` 10 charged per visit for collecting forest Field study (2022) : The Forest under the
resources. Van Panchayat is healthier than the un-
Forest fund corpus : ` 60,000 approx. managed forest nearby.

INDIA’S CHANGING POPULATION DISCOURSE

Shift in Population Discourse Naidu emphasizes population for economic
India historically promoted population stability.
control, especially through the two-child Global Concern Over Population Decline
norm since the 1970s.
Shrinking workforce
PM Narendra Modi, in 2019, described Lower consumption
population explosion as a national threat
Higher elder-care costs
and encouraged small families as patriotic.
Reduced tax base
Recent Political Reversal
Environmental Perspective
Leaders now urge population increase due
Some argue that population decline benefits
to declining fertility.
the planet and ecosystems.
Fertility rate fell from 5 (1970s) to 2 (2023),
Stephanie Feldstein : Fewer people = lower
below the replacement level of 2·1 (UN
WPP 2024). emissions, 10% rise in per capita income by
2055.
Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu
Naidu and Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin Advocates for degrowth and equity models
advocate ‘population management’ instead over consumption-based economic growth.
of control. Key Dilemma
Motivations Behind the Shift India’s U-turn highlights a global tension
Tamil Nadu fears losing Lok Sabha repre- between economic growth and environ-
sentation due to low population growth mental sustainability in the context of
(fertility rate : 1·58). demographic changes.
16- 30 April
RECIPROCAL TARIFFS : TRUMP’S TARIFF COULD
CAUSE ECONOMIC DISRUPTION IN RURAL INDIA
The US President Donald Trump’s decision Key Highlights
to impose ‘reciprocal tariffs’ on April 2, 2025, 1. Nature and Scope of Tariffs :
marks a drastic protectionist shift in American
Aimed at 57 countries, with tariffs ranging
trade policy. This move, positioned as a
from 11% to 49%.
declaration of economic independence, could
destabilize global trade and economic relations, An additional 10% ad valorem duty was
echoing the protectionist wave of the 1930s. imposed on all imports from April 5.
 India faces a 26% reciprocal tariff, effecti- Pharmaceuticals (12% of total exports; 38%
vely raising its export tariffs to the US to of formulations to the US).
36%. Gems & jewellery, textiles and telecom
Neighbours like Sri Lanka (54%), Bangla- equipment are also vulnerable.
desh (47%) and Pakistan (40%) face even 2. Pressure on Agricultural Trade
higher burdens. US targets India's high tariffs on agri-
China faces a 34% reciprocal tariff, totaling products (avg. 39%) vs the US's 5%.
a 54% overall burden. Seeks to open Indian markets to US agri-
2. Objectives of the Tariff Plan business, which enjoys heavy subsidies.
Part of the ‘America First’ policy is to Could lead to unfair competition, threat-
address the US’s trade deficits. ening the livelihood of small Indian farmers
Aimed at forcing trade partners to reduce and food self-sufficiency.
their tariffs or increase imports from the US. 3. Strategic Concerns
Intended to benefit American workers and Risk of US interference in domestic policy,
businesses by curbing imports and boosting reminiscent of pre-Green Revolution depen-
local industry. dency.
3. Economic Implications Undermines decades of efforts to protect
The move risks triggering a global trade India's rural economy and agricultural
war, reminiscent of the 1930s Smoot- sovereignty.
Hawley Tariff Act. Conclusion
Early signs include retaliatory measures by Trump’s tariff policy marks a turning point
China and the EU. in global trade, with significant fallout for
OECD warns of rising production and con- developing economies like India. While the
sumption costs, threatening global recovery policy aims to protect American interests, it
from the COVID-19 economic fallout. threatens to disrupt fragile global recovery and
Implications for India destabilize rural livelihoods in countries like
India. For India, especially, the agricultural
1. Threat to Key Export Sectors sector stands most vulnerable, and it is impera-
Electronics (15% of India’s exports to the tive that the government resist pressures that
US). compromise food security and farmer welfare.

INDIA'S GROWING WEIGHT-LOSS DRUG

MARKET AND THE OBESITY CHALLENGE
Obesity Crisis : India is facing a growing Side effects include risk of thyroid
obesity epidemic. The Lancet predicts one- cancer, pancreatitis, kidney issues and
third of Indians will be obese by 2050. even vision loss (as per JAMA
NFHS (2019–21) reports 24% of women and Ophthalmology, January 2025).
23% of men as overweight or obese. Generic Push :
Drug Approvals & Market Growth : Drugs like Ozempic go off-patent
US-based Eli Lilly’s drug tirzepatide in January 2026.
(brand : Mounjaro) was approved in
Indian firms (Natco, Dr. Reddy’s,
March 2025 for type 2 diabetes and
Sun Pharma, Biocon) preparing to
weight management.
launch generics in India, Brazil,
Novo Nordisk's semaglutide (Ozempic)
and Canada.
also under consideration for Indian
market. Policy Recommendations :
Mounjaro costs ` 14,000–` 17,500/ Experts urge regulated marketing,
month in India. restricted prescriptions, and public
These drugs mimic gut hormones health focus on nutrition, educa-
(GLP-1, GIP), reduce appetite, slow tion and activity.
gastric emptying and promote satiety. Stress on taxation of ultra-proces-
Medical Caution sed foods, front-of-pack labels and
Recommended for individuals with nutrition education in schools.
BMI 27 (with co-morbidities) or 30. Conclusion
Long-term success questionable with- Weight-loss drugs may assist in managing
out addressing diet, lifestyle, stress and obesity, but without sustainable lifestyle reforms,
genetics. they are an inadequate solution.
 GLACIER MELTING CRISIS IN THE HINDU
KUSH HIMALAYA (HKH)
Accelerated Glacier Retreat Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods
HKH glaciers are melting 65% faster (2011– and landslides.
2020) compared to the previous decade. HKH alone accounts for 7,000+ GLOF
Climate change is the main driver, affecting deaths out of 12,000 globally in 200 years.
10 major river basins. GLOF risk expected to triple by end of the
century.
Widespread Impact
Irreversible Trends
HKH sustains 240 million mountain Even with reduced emissions, glaciers will
dwellers and 1·65 billion downstream. continue to retreat.
If global warming reaches 2°C, up to 50% of Dust and black carbon from wildfires
HKH glaciers may vanish by 2100. reduce glacier albedo, accelerating melt.
Global mountain glaciers may lose 26–41% Hydropower & Governance Gaps
mass by 2100 (vs 2015 levels). Glacier melt impacts hydropower genera-
Snowpack & Climate Shifts tion, but data is limited.
Poor transboundary cooperation in HKH
Shorter winters, delayed snowfall in HKH,
blocks effective climate adaptation.
and quick melt due to rising temperatures.
Key Recommendations
Snowpacks in other regions (e.g., Rockies)
Incentivize communities protecting
are also melting completely during warm
watersheds via Payments for Ecosystem
seasons.
Services.
Disaster Risks Urgent need for global cooperation and
Glacier melt is increasing the risks of Glacial data sharing on glacier-fed water resources.

RISE OF AI AND ITS SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT

Anxiety Across Professions 77% : Reskilling/upskilling
Graphic designers fear job losses due to AI- 69% : Hiring people skilled in AI
enabled design tools producing drafts from design
simple commands. 41% : Downsizing due to AI replication
In the IT sector, professionals foresee AI of work
replacing coding in traditional languages Emerging AI Roles (UNCTAD Report
with natural language programming (e.g., in 2025)
English).
AI Trainers : Develop and upgrade AI
Disruption and Job Displacement models.
AI mimics human cognitive abilities— AI Explainers : Customize AI for specific
reasoning, learning, problem-solving—but applications.
operates faster and without fatigue.
AI Sustainers : Ensure ethical and accurate
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, AI functioning.
LLaMA, Gemini now assist with writing,
Generative AI and AI Agents
designing, programming and even legal or
research work. AI agents are virtual coworkers that can
execute tasks end-to-end—coding, testing,
A 17% decline in image-creation job
deployment.
postings was observed after ChatGPT’s
Companies like Google, Microsoft, OpenAI,
release (as per 2023 academic study).
Meta are pioneering agentic AI.
Future of Jobs (WEF 2025) However, experts warn of overestimating
40% of current skills will be outdated their practical effectiveness.
between 2025–2030. Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
Workers may shift to lower-productivity AGI aims to mimic human adaptability and
sectors, risking widening income inequality. reasoning, going beyond task-specific train-
Strategies planned by employers : ing.
 Applications could include real-time AI tools are becoming ubiquitous across
decisions by AGI-driven autonomous sectors—from legal services to healthcare,
vehicles. from apps to customer service.
The majority of experts (76%) doubt AGI's New tools (like OpenAI’s image generator
feasibility through current machine- launched in 2025) witness millions of users
learning approaches. within hours, showing rapid mass adoption.
Nonetheless, Elon Musk predicts AGI Conclusion
within 2 years; geopolitical rivals like US AI is reshaping the world of work, pro-
and China are in a race for AGI supremacy. ductivity and geopolitics. While it poses a threat
to traditional employment, it simultaneously
AI Adoption Trends opens avenues for innovation, new skill deve-
By 2024, 78% of global companies will use lopment and efficiency. The challenge ahead lies
AI in at least one business function in managing transitions with equity, ethics and
(McKinsey Survey 2025). foresight.

BIAS INBUILT: EXPLOITATIVE USE OF AI BY GOVERNMENTS

AND PRIVATE ENTITIES THREATENS HUMANITY,
EMPHASISING THE NEED FOR STRONG GUARDRAILS
AI in Warfare and Surveillance AI and Intellectual Property Violations
Gaza Strip Example : Human Rights Watch Cohere Inc Lawsuit (2025) : 14 publishers
alleges Israel uses an AI tool, ‘Lavender’, to sued for unauthorized use of content to
assign scores to Gaza residents, possibly train generative AI and producing false
attributions.
leading to them being targeted.
AI Hallucinations and Misinformation
Autonomous Weapon Systems (AWS) :
Countries like the US, Israel, Russia and Definition : AI generating false but
China are developing AI-powered weapons plausible-sounding statements.
that can act without human input. Example : Google’s AI advised users to ‘eat
one rock per day’ based on satirical content.
Risks : Biased data may lead to civilian
targeting; humans may evade account- Deception and Manipulation by AI
ability. Cicero AI (2024 Study) : Meta’s AI for the
Deepfakes and Disinformation game Diplomacy used manipulative tactics,
showing AI's potential to deceive.
Ukraine Deepfake (2022) : A fake video of
President Zelenskyy urging surrender Global AI Governance Efforts
spread online, showing AI's potential in US : Revoked prior executive order on AI
spreading wartime disinformation. safety; lacks a comprehensive legal frame-
work.
AI and Discrimination in Law Enforce-
China : Enforces strong laws on AI trans-
ment
parency, privacy and national security.
Facial Recognition Misuse : In 2023, a man EU : Implemented the AI Act in 2024–25,
in Georgia was wrongfully arrested due to banning harmful practices like social
faulty AI-based facial recognition. scoring and manipulation.
Wider Impacts : Biased AI affects justice UK : Released a 10 year plan and AI oppor-
tunities plan; regulatory bill still in discus-
access, healthcare and civil rights.
sion.
Healthcare Bias and Inequity Japan : Relies on non-binding guidelines
2025 Nature Medicine Study : AI recom- and voluntary compliance.
mended different treatments based on Council of Europe AI Treaty (2024) : First
socio-economic and demographic factors, international treaty on AI and human
highlighting healthcare inequities. rights. Ratification pending; private sector
accountability remains weak.
Rise in AI-related Crimes
Key Concern
Stanford AI Index 2025 : AI-related crimes
Balance Needed : Policymakers must
increased by 57% from 2023 to 2024. Cases manage AI's benefits while mitigating
include deepfake nudes and chatbot-linked serious risks, including privacy violations,
suicide. inequality and loss of human control.
 UPDATE REQUIRED : INDIA NEEDS TO UPGRADE ITS
LEGISLATIVE AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK TO DEAL WITH
THE IMPACTS OF AI TECHNOLOGY
AI Initiatives : Raises concerns of exclusion and access
India launched the IndiaAI Dataset issues for vulnerable populations,
Platform and AI Compute Portal in especially pregnant women under
2025 to support AI development. ICDS.
` 10,372 crore AI Mission focuses on Need for Legal Safeguards :
infrastructure, skilling, innovation, Experts call for legal mandates to notify
startups, datasets and safe AI. individuals when decisions are made
67 proposals received for building by AI systems (e.g., loan rejections,
indigenous AI models like Large service access).
Language Models (LLMs). Urgent need for preventive laws
Policy Approach : against deepfakes, AI surveillance and
The government plays the role of automated decision-making.
facilitator for market-led AI Deepfake Regulation :
development. Delhi HC directed MeitY to form a
Emphasis on public infrastructure and committee; initial consultations held
national datasets to support private with tech firms and experts.
enterprise. A final report with legal and technical
Concerns and Gaps : solutions is awaited.
Digital Personal Data Protection Act, Proposed Digital India Act :
2023 seen as weak—allows broad Aims to replace the IT Act, 2000.
government exemptions and dilutes Will address tech monopolies,
consent. cybercrimes (revenge porn, phishing,
Publicly available data is largely etc.) and AI-related harms.
exempt from protection—raises risk of May eliminate legal immunity for
misuse, including training AI on leaked online platforms—details not yet
data. released.
Anonymized non-personal data can Conclusion :
still potentially identify individuals. India is advancing AI infrastructure, but
AI in Governance : legislative updates are critical to protect rights
AI tools like facial recognition are being and prevent misuse. A comprehensive legal
used in programs like Poshan Tracker framework is needed to balance innovation with
and tax administration. accountability.

PUBLIC HEALTH Vs PATENT RIGHTS : DELHI HC’S

LANDMARK JUDGEMENT
Case Background : Said the plaintiff (Roche) can be
Swiss pharma giant Roche sued Natco compensated later if it wins the case,
Pharma over its generic version of but patients cannot be compensated for
risdiplam, used to treat spinal muscular lack of access.
atrophy (SMA). Why it Matters ?
Risdiplam (Evrysdi) costs ` 6 lakh per
Roche sought an interim injunction to
bottle.
stop Natco from manufacturing/selling
For an SMA patient (> 20 kg), treatment
the generic drug.
costs ` 1·8 crore/year.
Judgement Highlights (March 24, 2025) :
Patients intervening in the case said the
Justice Mini Pushkarna, Delhi High drug was unaffordable and
Court, dismissed Roche’s plea. unavailable.
Emphasized that public health over- Court Observations :
rides patent rights, especially in life- Roche’s Patient Assistance Programme
saving treatments. (PAP) was too limited.
 Proposed subsidized pricing (in sealed Patent Dispute Specifics :
cover) only covered PAP-enrolled Roche holds only a species patent in
patients. India (valid till 2035).
India's National Policy for Rare Natco argues Roche's earlier genus
Diseases (NPRD) has limited funding patent already disclosed risdiplam.
(only 1,118 patients supported out of 63 Claims Roche is trying to extend mono-
diseases). poly via a secondary patent.
Balance of Convenience : Significance :
The court ruled in favour of Natco, Sets a precedent for weighing public
saying if Roche wins the trial later, health over IP in rare disease drug
Natco can pay damages. cases.
Prioritizing affordability and First major test of drug affordability for
accessibility over patent enforcement. a rare disease in Indian courts.
 SpaDeX MISSION : INDIA'S ACHIEVEMENT IN
AUTONOMOUS SPACE DOCKING
Launch & Key Milestone : Post-Docking Operations :
Launched on 30 December, 2024 On 13 March, 2025, the satellites were
from Satish Dhawan Space Centre undocked successfully, allowing inde-
pendent operation of their payloads.
(Sriharikota) aboard PSLV-C60.
Upcoming experiments include demon-
Achieved successful autonomous space strating power transfer capabilities
docking on 16 January, 2025, marking a between the two satellites.
significant advancement in India's Future Prospects :
space programme. The mission is seen as a stepping stone
for India's future space capabilities,
Significance : positioning the country alongside
The capability of autonomous docking leading space nations in autonomous
docking technology.
is crucial for future missions like
Conclusion
satellite refuelling, repairs, assembly of
The SpaDeX mission is a landmark achieve-
large structures, material transfer and ment, enhancing India's position in the space
even potential human operations in exploration domain and opening doors for
space. advanced space operations in the future.

AI ART TRANSFORMING REAL ART : FUN OR THREAT ?

AI art, especially transforming real-life Ethical Dilemmas : Copyright Issues :
images into styles like Ghibli, has become a AI can replicate styles of original artists,
viral trend on social media. raising concerns about intellectual
This trend is fun and nostalgic, gaining property rights.
widespread popularity. Ethical Dilemmas : The manipulation
Rise of AI Art : of real images can blur the line between
AI tools allow users to turn photos of authenticity and AI-generated content,
cityscapes, portraits, and nature into questioning the integrity of the original
artistic, animated-style images. work.
The trend has spread quickly, with Conclusion
many users sharing their AI-trans- While AI-generated art offers creative
formed images on social platforms. freedom and fun, it is important to address the
Concerns and Implications : potential privacy, copyright and ethical issues
Privacy Risks : Uploading real images surrounding its use. Users must be cautious
can lead to unintentional exposure of about sharing personal images and respect
personal data or identity. original creators' rights when using AI tools.

INDIA’S SPACE PROGRAMME : A REMARKABLE JOURNEY

Humble Beginnings (1963) : Well-coordinated institutional and
Started with the launch of Nike-Apache industrial effort.
rocket from Thumba, Kerala on 21
Strong leadership and long-term vision
November, 1963.
from ISRO.
Marked the beginning of India’s space
exploration efforts. Notable Achievements :
Growth into a Global Power : Development of indigenous satellite
Evolved into a dynamic and advanced launch vehicles (PSLV, GSLV).
space industry.
Successful Mars Orbiter Mission
Involves public and private sector
(Mangalyaan) and Chandrayaan
collaboration across the country.
missions.
Key Drivers of Success :
Integrated ecosystem with small, Launch of commercial satellites for
medium and large enterprises. multiple countries.
Strategic and Societal Impact : Future Aspirations :
Contributions to telecommunications, Plans for human spaceflight (Gagan-
weather forecasting, disaster manage- yaan).
ment and education. Continued focus on space exploration,
Supports national security and strategic naviga-tion systems, and international
objectives. partnerships.

FROM PLOUGH TO PLATFORM : THE DIGITAL

EVOLUTION OF FARMING
Agriculture has always been central to Internet of Things (IoT)
human survival and the growth of Drones
civilizations. In the past, households were Mobile apps and platforms
entirely self-reliant—producing their own These technologies help in :
dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Precision farming
Market dependency for food was unheard Efficient resource use
of; sharing and storing excess produce was Real-time weather and soil monitoring
the norm. Farmers were closely attuned to
Better market linkage
nature, relying on instinct and traditional
Despite progress, challenges remain:
knowledge.
Digital divide affecting small-scale
Over time, farming shifted from self- farmers
sufficiency to market orientation, reducing Need for affordable tech access, digital
direct contact with natural rhythms. literacy, and infrastructure
Today, agriculture is undergoing a digital The future lies in inclusive digital
transformation with the rise of : agriculture—empowering all farmers while
Artificial Intelligence (AI) preserving sustainability.

SMART TOYS AND GAMES : A QUANTUM LEAP IN

LEARNING
Learning is becoming more interactive and Conduct virtual experiments
playful, using toys and gadgets to teach Solve puzzles in a gamified
complex subjects like science, math, and environment
history. These technologies enhance :
Augmented Reality (AR) and interactive Engagement
smart toys are transforming education by: Conceptual understanding
Turning abstract concepts into tangible, Retention of knowledge
immersive experiences Learning is moving beyond classrooms and
Making learning fun, adventurous and textbooks, appealing to different learning
accessible styles. The future of education is heading
Students can now : towards a fusion of play and pedagogy,
Explore ancient civilizations making learning a joyful experience.

INDIA COMMERCIALISES GLOBALLY MARKETABLE LEAD-

FREE X-RAY SHIELDING TILES FROM INDUSTRIAL WASTE
India has developed and commercialised Cancer treatment bunkers
lead-free radiation shielding tiles made Nuclear plants and radioactive storage
from industrial waste. areas
These tiles are crucial for shielding X-ray, The tiles help protect people and the
gamma ray and neutron radiation in environment from harmful radiation
facilities like : exposure.
X-ray diagnostic centres Radiation exposure beyond safe limits (20
CT scan and cath labs mSv/year for adults) can lead to serious
health risks like :
 Cancer, genetic disorders, skin burns, This innovation aligns with:
cataracts, and organ failure. Environmental goals
Unlike conventional lead-based shields, Global health and safety standards
these tiles are :
Make in India and waste-to-wealth
Eco-friendly, safer, and more sustain-
initiatives
able

BIOTECHNOLOGY PARKS : INNOVATION HUBS

FOR TOMORROW’S SOLUTIONS
Technology Parks have become key drivers the global and local impact.
of innovation, entrepreneurship and econo- Also known as science parks, innovation
mic growth in knowledge-based economies. districts, or research parks, these ventures
These parks create specialized clusters are planned to support knowledge-based
bringing together : enterprises.
Research institutions They provide state-of-the-art infrastructure
Universities such as :
Startups Research laboratories
Established businesses Business incubators
They form a dynamic ecosystem where Collaborative workspaces
research ideas evolve into advanced Access to venture capital
technological solutions. These parks help bridge the gap between
Examples include Silicon Valley (USA) and academia and industry, speeding up the
Bangalore’s IT corridor (India), showcasing commercialization of technology.

SENSE BY MEMS : REVOLUTIONISING SENSING

TECHNIQUES USING MICROSYSTEM TECHNOLOGY
Sensors are vital in many modern consumer Microsystem technology in Europe,
and industrial applications like smart- Micromachine technology in Japan.
phones, wearables, automotive systems and Involves the fabrication of microsensors and
healthcare devices. microactuators integrated with micro-
Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) electronic circuits.
technology is one of the most widely used The scale of MEMS devices ranges from a
methods to manufacture microsensors. few microns (ìm) to thousands of microns.
MEMS focuses on the miniaturisation of This miniaturisation enables advanced
conventional sensors and actuators. sensing capabilities in compact forms
Known as : suitable for diverse applications.
MEMS technology globally,

OH, I AM PI !
Pi ( ) is more than just a number; it’s a Pi is an irrational number, meaning :
mysterious and fundamental mathematical It has no repeating or recurring pattern
constant. in its decimal expansion.
Defined as the ratio of the circumference of Its digits continue infinitely without
a circle to its diameter. any predictable sequence.
The value of Pi remains constant regardless This unique nature of Pi makes it significant
of the circle’s size. in mathematics and science.