26th FEBRUARY, 2025 A.) NAKSHA Initiative Why in News? Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations (NAKSHA) to modernize urban land records. Background • Most urban areas in India have outdated or unstructured land records, causing inefficiencies in governance and taxation. • While rural land records have been improved under Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), many cities still lack proper maps. • States like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa have better urban land records, but most others lag behind. Details About NAKSHA: • A city survey initiative under DILRMP, spearheaded by the Department of Land Resources (DoLR), Ministry of Rural Development. • Aims to create a geospatial database of urban land records using aerial and field surveys integrated with GIS technology. • Launched as a pilot across 152 urban local bodies in 26 states, covering towns less than 35 sq km in area and with a population below 2 lakhs. • 100% centrally funded, with an estimated cost of ₹194 crore for the pilot. Objectives & Benefits: • Creation of comprehensive and accurate digital urban land records. • Reduction in land disputes and improved property tax collection. • Facilitates faster urban planning, efficient land use, and smoother property transactions. • Enhances access to credit and investments in urban properties. • The Centre plans to scale up the project after successful completion of the pilot phase. How will the survey be conducted? • Drone-based aerial photography using LiDAR sensors and high-resolution cameras. • Three-stage process: 1. Drone Survey – Flight plans are made, and high-resolution images are captured. 2. Field Survey & Mapping – Data is verified, linked to property tax records and ownership details, and 2D/3D models are created. 3. Public Review & Finalization – Claims and objections are addressed, grievances resolved, and final digitized maps published. Scale & Coverage: • As per Census 2011, India has 7,933 towns covering 1.02 lakh sq km. • NAKSHA will initially cover 4,142.63 sq km, with expansion planned after the pilot phase. This initiative marks a significant step in urban governance modernization, ensuring efficient land management, transparency, and economic development. B.) Impact of U.S. Reciprocal Tariff Plan on India Why in News? The U.S. Reciprocal Tariff Plan aims to impose higher tariffs on countries with which the U.S. has a trade deficit. This could significantly impact Indian exports, prompting concerns over trade competitiveness and economic losses. Background • The U.S. runs a trade deficit with several countries, including India, and is planning higher tariffs to counter this imbalance. • India currently enjoys relatively lower tariffs (2.8%) on its exports to the U.S., but under the new plan, this could rise to 4.9%. • Certain key Indian export sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and electronics are at risk of higher duties. Details Impact on India • Increase in tariffs from 2.8% to 4.9% on Indian exports, reducing price competitiveness. • Sector-wise impact: o Agriculture: Shrimp, dairy, and processed foods could face tariffs of up to 38.2%. o Industrial Goods: Pharmaceuticals, diamonds & jewelry, and electronics may see significant losses.  Example: Pharmaceutical tariffs could rise by 10.9%, increasing costs for generic medicines and reducing demand. o Minimal impact: Sectors like petroleum, minerals, and garments are expected to be largely unaffected. Recommendations for India 1. Advance Tariff Offer Instead of FTA: o India should propose a zero-for-zero tariff strategy—eliminating tariffs on select U.S. imports without harming domestic industries. 2. Retaliatory Measures: o Like China's response, India should consider countermeasures instead of offering unfair trade concessions. 3. Resolve Trade Data Discrepancies: o Addressing differences in trade statistics reported by India and the U.S. to prevent tariff hikes based on inaccurate data. Conclusion India must adopt a strategic trade response by negotiating fair tariffs, protecting key export sectors, and ensuring trade data transparency to mitigate the impact of the U.S. Reciprocal Tariff Plan.   C.) India’s Commitment to Global South in Peacekeeping Why in News? External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's commitment to building peacekeeping capacities in Global South nations at the inaugural ‘Conference for Women Peacekeepers from the Global South’. Background • Since the 1950s, India has contributed over 290,000 peacekeepers to 50+ UN peacekeeping missions. • Currently, more than 5,000 Indian peacekeepers are deployed in 9 out of 11 active UN peacekeeping missions. • India has been a pioneer in deploying women peacekeepers, reinforcing its leadership in inclusive peace operations. Details About UN Peacekeeping • The UN does not have a standing military force; Member States voluntarily contribute military and police personnel for peacekeeping operations. • Peacekeepers’ Role: o Protect civilians and prevent conflicts. o Reduce violence and strengthen security. o Support national authorities in assuming security responsibilities. • Use of Force: o Allowed only in self-defense and defense of the mandate, with UN Security Council authorization. o Force is used as a last resort in UN peacekeeping operations. • The first UN Peacekeeping mission was established in May 1948, when the UN Security Council formed the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) to monitor the Arab-Israel Armistice Agreement. Who Funds UN Peacekeeping Missions? • The UN Security Council decides on establishing and maintaining peacekeeping operations. • All UN member states contribute to funding, as per Article 17 of the UN Charter. • Major contributors: o United States (26.95%) and China (18.69%) contribute the most due to their status as permanent UNSC members. o India’s share is approximately 0.2088%. • Financial Aspects for Troops: o Countries pay their own peacekeepers according to national salary scales. o The UN reimburses contributing nations at $1,428 per soldier per month (as of July 2019). Conclusion India remains a key contributor to UN peacekeeping, particularly in supporting Global South nations and enhancing women’s role in peace missions. This aligns with India's commitment to global security and multilateral cooperation.   D.) India’s Growing Wind Energy Capacity Why in News? According to a Crisil report, India's annual wind power capacity addition is set to double from 3.4 GW in FY 2024-25 to 7.1 GW in FY 2026-27, highlighting rapid growth in the sector. Background • Total Installed Wind Capacity: India’s wind energy capacity has more than doubled in the last decade, reaching 48.16 GW (January 2025). • Global Ranking: India ranks 4th worldwide in total installed wind capacity. • Role in Renewable Energy: Wind power is the second-largest contributor to India’s renewable energy mix, after solar power (>100 GW). Details High Potential of Wind Power • Key wind energy states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh have high wind power potential. • Offshore wind energy potential along Gujarat and Tamil Nadu coasts. Initiatives to Promote Wind Energy 1. National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy (2018) o Promotes hybrid wind-solar projects to optimize land use and grid stability. 2. Offshore Wind Energy Policy (2015) o Encourages offshore wind development along Gujarat and Tamil Nadu coasts. 3. Green Energy Open Access Rules (2022) o Simplifies access to renewable power for consumers, boosting wind energy adoption. 4. Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO) o Mandates power distribution companies (DISCOMs) to source a portion of electricity from wind and other renewables. Conclusion India’s wind energy sector is poised for significant expansion, backed by policy support, strong potential, and increasing capacity additions. This aligns with India’s renewable energy targets and commitment to sustainable development. E.) NASA’s PUNCH Mission: Unraveling the Solar Wind Why in News? NASA is set to launch the Polarimetry to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) mission on February 28 using a SpaceX rocket. This first-of-its-kind solar mission aims to closely observe the solar atmosphere and map the origins and evolution of solar winds and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)—both of which significantly impact space weather. Background • PUNCH Mission Objective: To study how the solar corona transitions into the solar wind and how CMEs propagate through space. • Significance: Understanding these solar phenomena is crucial for space weather prediction, which affects satellites, power grids, and communication systems on Earth. Details Spacecraft Configuration • Four suitcase-sized satellites will operate in a coordinated constellation to generate continuous 3D images of the corona and inner heliosphere. Scientific Goals 1. Mapping the Solar Wind o Tracking the flow of charged particles from the Sun to understand their acceleration and distribution. 2. Studying Solar Transients o Observing CMEs and dynamic solar events to analyze their structure, evolution, and impact on planetary environments. 3. Enhancing Space Weather Prediction o Providing critical data to improve space weather models that influence Earth’s communication systems, GPS, and power infrastructure. Mission Details • Orbit: The satellites will be placed in a Sun-synchronous, low Earth orbit, enabling continuous solar observation. • Duration: After a 90-day commissioning phase, PUNCH will conduct at least two years of scientific operations. Conclusion The PUNCH mission will fill the observational gap between the Sun’s corona and heliosphere, improving our understanding of solar activity and its impact on Earth. The data will be crucial for advancing space weather forecasting, making space missions and global communications more resilient.   F.) India’s Space Economy and Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047 Why in News? India’s space economy is projected to grow fivefold, significantly contributing to the nation’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The government aims to expand the Indian space economy to $44 billion by 2033, capturing 8% of the global space market. India’s Space Economy: Current Status • Valuation: Currently valued at $8.4 billion, contributing 2% of the global space market. • Economic Impact: o Contributed ₹20,000 crore to GDP in the last decade. o Supported 96,000 jobs in the sector. o Every $1 investment in space generates a $2.54 economic impact, making it 2.5 times more productive than India’s broader industry. Role of Space Technology in Nation-Building 1. Land Digitization o Swamitva Scheme uses satellites for transparent land records and property rights. 2. Resource Mapping o Space technology helps in harnessing Himalayan and marine resources, aiding in sustainable development. 3. Women in Space o Women constitute 20-25% of ISRO’s workforce, contributing to missions like Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan. 4. Navigation & Communication o NavIC (Indian GPS alternative) strengthens national security, navigation, and communication networks. Key Initiatives to Boost India’s Space Economy • Space Budget: o Increased from ₹5,615 crore in 2013-14 to ₹13,416 crore in 2025-26. • Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe): o Established in 2020 to promote and regulate private sector participation in space activities. • Indian Space Policy 2023: o Encourages private investment and international collaborations. • 100% FDI in Space Sector: o Eases restrictions on foreign investments in satellite manufacturing and launch services. • ₹1,000 crore Venture Capital (VC) Fund: o Supports startups and innovation in space technology. Conclusion India’s booming space economy will be a key driver of technological and economic growth, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The government’s policies and investments are positioning India as a global leader in space technology, fostering innovation, economic expansion, and strategic self-reliance. 27th FEBRUARY, 2025 A.) IREDA Shareholders Approve ₹5,000 Crore Fundraising via QIP Why in News? The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has received shareholder approval to raise up to ₹5,000 crore through a Qualified Institutions Placement (QIP) of equity shares. The approval was granted via remote e-voting during the 22nd Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held through video conferencing. Background: What is Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP)? A Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) is a capital-raising mechanism used by listed companies to issue equity shares, non-convertible debt instruments, or convertible securities to Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs). Key Features of QIP: • Introduced by SEBI in 2006 to reduce Indian companies' dependence on foreign capital (ADRs/GDRs) and promote domestic fundraising. • Exclusive to Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) such as mutual funds, foreign institutional investors, scheduled commercial banks, insurance companies, and pension funds. • Faster and cost-effective compared to Follow-on Public Offerings (FPOs) or Rights Issues. • Pricing Mechanism: Issue price must be not less than the average of the weekly high and low closing prices over the past two weeks. • Lock-in Period: Securities allotted in a QIP are locked for six months to ensure participation from long-term investors. Procedure for QIP Issuance 1. Board & Shareholder Approval: The company secures board and shareholder approval for the QIP. 2. Appointment of Merchant Banker: A merchant banker is appointed to manage the issue and act as an intermediary between the company and QIBs. 3. Offer Document Preparation: A document detailing the issue is shared with potential QIB investors. 4. Allotment of Shares: Shares are allocated based on investor bids, and funds are raised accordingly. Impact of IREDA’s ₹5,000 Crore QIP Fundraising This move will provide a boost for renewable energy financing, increasing IREDA’s lending capacity for green energy projects. It aligns with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and will attract institutional investors, strengthening market confidence in IREDA. Conclusion IREDA’s ₹5,000 crore QIP approval is a strategic move to enhance funding for India’s renewable energy sector. The initiative will strengthen India’s clean energy transition, attract institutional investors, and accelerate green financing under the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.   B.) Global Security Risks and Nuclear Weapons Current Context The warning regarding nuclear threats comes as the Doomsday Clock moved one second closer to midnight last month. Introduced in 1947 by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, the Doomsday Clock symbolizes how close humanity is to self-destruction. Current Risks Posed by Nuclear Weapons • Heightened Global Security Concerns: Geopolitical tensions, diminishing trust between nations, and escalating military expenditures increase the likelihood of nuclear conflict. • Erosion of Disarmament Frameworks: Key treaties and norms aimed at preventing nuclear testing and proliferation are being undermined, weakening global disarmament efforts. • Nuclear Blackmail: The potential use of nuclear weapons to coerce opponents exacerbates global instability and heightens security risks. • Expansion of Inventories: Many countries are increasing their nuclear weapon stockpiles, leading to new arms races, including in outer space. • Weaponization of Artificial Intelligence: The integration of AI in military operations may reduce human control over nuclear arsenals, raising the risk of unintended launches. Non-Proliferation Efforts • Conference on Disarmament: This forum addresses key issues such as nuclear disarmament, the prevention of an arms race in outer space, and the emergence of new weapons of mass destruction. • Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT): The NPT aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and technology while promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy. • Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT): This treaty bans all nuclear explosions, regardless of whether they are for military or peaceful purposes. • International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): The IAEA serves as the leading international organization for scientific and technical cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, ensuring safety and non-proliferation. Conclusion The evolving landscape of nuclear weapons and the associated risks highlight the urgent need for renewed commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation efforts. As global tensions rise, the importance of international treaties and cooperative frameworks cannot be overstated in ensuring a safer future for humanity.   C.) India's Semiconductor Industry: A Crucial Step Towards Self-Reliance Why in News India is taking significant steps to reduce its dependence on semiconductor imports, particularly from countries like Taiwan and China, by focusing on indigenous chip development. This move aims to bolster national security, enhance economic stability, and strengthen India's position in the global semiconductor market. Background India's semiconductor manufacturing industry is still in its early stages, facing challenges that limit its growth potential. Currently valued at approximately $38 billion in 2023, the Indian semiconductor market is projected to grow to $109 billion by 2030. The country’s reliance on foreign semiconductor chips underscores the need for a robust domestic industry to meet the growing demand. Details • Market Growth: The semiconductor consumption market in India is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% through 2030. • Challenges: o Capital-Intensive Sector: Establishing semiconductor fabrication facilities (fabs) requires substantial investment, often exceeding $10 billion. o Lack of Skilled Workforce: There is a pressing need for skilled professionals in semiconductor design, fabrication, and testing to support industry growth. o Dependence on Raw Material Imports: Critical raw materials such as silicon wafers and semiconductor chips are largely imported, creating vulnerabilities in the supply chain. • Initiatives Undertaken: o Semicon India Program: This initiative aims to promote the domestic semiconductor industry through various incentives and strategic partnerships. o India Semiconductor Mission: Focused on building a vibrant semiconductor and display ecosystem, this mission seeks to establish India as a global hub for electronics manufacturing and design. o Partnerships with Global Firms: Collaborations with companies like Micron and Foxconn aim to set up manufacturing units in India, enhancing local capabilities and infrastructure. Conclusion India's concerted efforts to develop its semiconductor industry are crucial for reducing import reliance and promoting economic self-sufficiency. By addressing challenges and leveraging initiatives, India can strengthen its semiconductor capabilities, contribute to national security, and boost its position in the global electronics market. D.) Transforming Women’s Representation in Panchayati Raj Institutions Why in News The report titled “Transforming Women’s Representation and Roles in Panchayati Raj Systems and Institutions: Eliminating Efforts for Proxy Participation” highlights critical issues regarding women's representation in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India. This follows a Supreme Court directive in the case of Mundona Rural Development Foundation vs UoI (2023), which called for a committee to examine the prevalence of proxy participation by male relatives in these institutions. Background The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) established a three-tiered panchayat system and mandated 1/3rd reservation of seats for women in PRIs. This quota has been expanded to nearly 50% by 21 states, with Bihar being the first to implement such measures. Currently, 46.6% of elected panchayat representatives are women. However, many elected women function merely as figureheads, while male relatives, often referred to as "sarpanch pati," exercise real control, undermining the intended impact of these reservations and perpetuating the notion that women are ineffective leaders. Details Key Reforms Proposed by the Committee: • Strict Penalties: The committee recommends implementing punishments for proven cases of male interference in panchayat leadership, although specific penalties are yet to be defined. • Stronger Policies: Proposals include: o Kerala-style gender-exclusive quotas to ensure female representation. o Public swearing-in ceremonies to enhance visibility and accountability of women leaders. o Establishing women panchayat federations to promote collective action and support among women representatives. • Technological Solutions: The committee advocates for: o Virtual reality simulation training to prepare women leaders for their roles. o Integration of AI-powered query-driven systems to provide real-time legal guidance to Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in local languages. • Accountability Mechanisms: Recommendations include: o Establishing helplines and watchdog committees to monitor leadership practices. o Introducing whistleblower rewards for reporting instances of proxy leadership. o Utilizing the Panchayat Nirnay Portal to enable citizens to track the participation and decision-making activities of elected pradhans. Conclusion The committee's report emphasizes the need for transformative measures to enhance women's representation and effectiveness in Panchayati Raj Institutions. By addressing issues of proxy participation and proposing reforms that promote accountability and empowerment, the committee aims to ensure that women can fulfill their roles as effective leaders in local governance, thereby realizing the true intent of the reservation policies.   E.) UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP 16.2) and Agri-NBSAPs Why in News The UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP 16.2) held in Rome builds on the momentum from COP16 in Colombia, where the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched Agri-NBSAPs in collaboration with the Colombian government and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This initiative aims to integrate agrifood systems into national biodiversity strategies. Background Agri-NBSAPs (Agricultural National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans) aim to support governments in incorporating agrifood systems (AFS) into their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and ensuring effective implementation. NBSAPs serve as a framework for biodiversity conservation, enabling the sustainable use of biological resources. Countries are encouraged to frame their NBSAPs under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF), which seeks to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. This framework provides a collective mechanism for governments to enhance their capacity, identify strategic levers, and implement measures across agrifood systems to achieve their NBSAP targets. Details Importance of Integrating AFS into NBSAPs: • Meeting KM-GBF Goals: More than half of the 23 targets of the KM-GBF are directly related to agriculture, highlighting the crucial role of agrifood systems in biodiversity conservation. • Cutting Emissions: Agrifood systems contribute nearly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, which drive climate change, leading to habitat degradation and biodiversity loss. • Protecting Food Security: Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem services such as pollination, soil fertility, and pest control. A decline in biodiversity poses a threat to food security, impacting the livelihoods of approximately 3 billion people, as 75% of food crops rely on pollinators. Conclusion The Agri-NBSAP initiative and the discussions at CBD COP 16.2 underscore the importance of integrating agrifood systems into national biodiversity strategies. By addressing the interconnections between agriculture and biodiversity, countries can make significant strides towards achieving the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, ultimately contributing to sustainable development and food security while preserving essential ecosystems.   F.) India-Africa Relations and the Japan-India-Africa Business Forum Why in News At the Japan-India-Africa Business Forum, India's Minister highlighted India's strong commitment to Africa through initiatives focused on capacity building, skill development, and technology transfer. This approach contrasts sharply with China's extractive model, showcasing India’s emphasis on mutual growth rather than control over resources. Background India has become a significant player in Africa, establishing itself as the fourth-largest trading partner on the continent, with nearly $100 billion in bilateral trade. Unlike China's debt-trap diplomacy, India offers duty-free trade and provides concessional financing, which fosters sustainable development across various sectors. The $12 billion concessional credit from India is aimed at funding over 200 infrastructure projects in key areas like railways, power, and agriculture. Details Evolving Nature of India-Africa Relations: • Expanding Economic Presence: India’s economic footprint in Africa continues to grow, positioning it as a vital trading partner and investor. • Driving Sustainable Development: India’s investment in infrastructure is supported by the ITEC Program, the Pan-African e-Network, and initiatives like e-VidyaBharti and e-ArogyaBharti, which enhance education and healthcare. • Giving Voice to Africa: India has actively advocated for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, highlighting the importance of African representation on global platforms. The India-Africa Forum Summit serves as a crucial platform for enhancing cooperation and dialogue. • Collaboration with Japan: The partnership with Japan aims to leverage Japanese investment, Indian technology, and African talent for shared growth. The Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC), launched in 2017, focuses on promoting democratic, sustainable, and inclusive development in Africa. Conclusion India's engagement with Africa is increasingly important as the global economic landscape shifts, with the coming decades expected to focus on Africa's growth potential. By prioritizing sustainable development, technology transfer, and collaborative initiatives, India aims to foster stronger ties with African nations and support their economic development in a manner that contrasts with the extractive practices seen in other partnerships.