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G.S II - Governance

Technology for the Empowerment Women and Children


Mains Syllabus: GS II - Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation.

Why in the News?

Over the last decade, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has strengthened access to nutrition, education, legal safeguards, and essential entitlements.

How are technology used in government schemes for women empowerment?

  • Modernization of Schemes - Saksham Anganwadi initiative, designed to modernise and empower over 2 lakh Anganwadi centres across India.
  • Effective Service Delivery - These centres are being upgraded with smart infrastructure, digital devices, and innovative learning tools, enabling more effective delivery of nutrition, healthcare, and pre-school education services.
  • Evidence-Based Policy Interventions - The integration of services provided by 14 lakh Anganwadi centres across the nation with the Poshan Tracker has enabled real-time data entry, performance monitoring, and evidence-based policy interventions.
  • Capacity Building of Anganwadi Workers - By equipping Anganwadi workers with smartphones and comprehensive training, the initiative ensures quality service delivery at the last mile.
  • Reduces Leakages - Facial recognition system has been introduced in Supplementary Nutrition Programme to ensure that eligible beneficiaries alone receive nutrition support.
  • Bridges Rural Urban Divide - Poshan Tracker reimagines Anganwadi centres as digitally empowered community hubs that bridge the urban-rural divide.
  • Ensures Safety and Support - The SHe-Box portal provides single-window access to every woman to lodge complaints under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
  • Integrates Assistance to Women - Mission Shakti dashboard and mobile app provide integrated assistance to women in distress, connecting them to the nearest one-stop centre, now operational in nearly every district.
  • Promoting Positive Reinforcement for Daughters – Under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) cash benefits are provided through direct benefit transfer.
  • PMMVY is a fully digital programme leveraging Aadhaar-based authentication, mobile-based registration, doorstep assistance from Anganwadi/ASHA workers, and real-time dashboards.
  • Economic Empowerment – Government eMarket Place (GeM) enables women and self help groups to sell their products online.

What are the outcomes ?

  • Increase in Sex Ratio at Birth - The latest reports from the Health Management Information System of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) reveal that the Sex Ratio at Birth has increased from 918 (2014-15) to 930 (2023-24).
  • Decline in Maternal Mortality Rate – It has declined to 97 per 1,000 births (2018-20) from 130 per 1,000 births (2014-16).
  • Child Protection and Welfare - Under the Juvenile Justice Act (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, the Ministry has strengthened the adoption ecosystem through the CARINGS portal (Child Adoption Resource Information and Guidance System).
  • Strengthening Supervisions - Digitisation has also improved monitoring of child care institutions, foster care placements, and statutory support structures under the Act.
  • Platforms developed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights are tracking violations of child rights.
  • Better Coordination - The Mission Vatsalya dashboard strengthens convergence and coordination among various child welfare stakeholders.

What are the challenges in using technologies for women empowerment?

  • Lack of Access to Digital Devices - Women face economic constraints that limit their ability to afford smartphones, computers, or reliable internet access.
  • Inadequate Digital Literacy - Data from the 78th round of the National Sample Survey 78th indicates that only 21% of all women above the age of 15 having some form of digital literacy.
  • This reduces their ability in harnessing benefits provided by digitalized schemes.
  • Infrastructure Limitations - Poor or non-existent infrastructure (electricity, reliable internet service) in rural or remote areas disproportionately affects women who often have less mobility to access public tech facilities.
  • Online Harassment and Discrimination - Women often face specific threats online, including harassment, privacy breaches, stalking, and non-consensual sharing of images, which can deter them from using digital platforms.

What lies ahead?

  • Capacity development of women through digital literacy program and hand on training can enhance their ability to directly access digital services.
  • Strengthening public digital infrastructures in remote places like hilly, terrain and rural places.
  • Use of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, big data to make government schemes proactive and reduce exclusion of beneficiaries and make them inclusive.

References

The Hindu | Using tech to empower women and children

G.S II - International Issues

International Financial Architecture


Mains Syllabus: GS II - Important International Institutions, agencies and fora - their Structure, Mandate.

Why in the News?

Recently Union Finance Minister advocates for reforms in international financial architecture to ensure MDB funds are used for development purposes.

What are the components of international financial architecture?

  • International Financial Architecture (IFA) – It refers to the comprehensive framework of institutions, policies, rules, and practices that govern the global financial system.
  • Objective – Its primary purpose is to
    • Facilitate international financial flows
    • Promote global monetary and financial stability
    • Support international trade and investment
    • Enable the mobilization of stable and long-term financing for economic development
    • Addressing global challenges like climate change
    • Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Key components of the IFA
  • Public International Financial Institutions -  Such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank Group, multilateral development banks, and global funds (e.g., Green Climate Fund).

 

  • Financial Standard-setters - Organizations that set norms for private finance governance, including
    • Financial Stability Board
    • Bank for International Settlements
    • International Organization of Securities Commissions
    • International Accounting Standards Board.
  • Regulatory Frameworks - Rules and standards that guide global financial markets and cross-border financial flows.
  • Monetary Arrangements - Such as regional financial arrangements and the network of bilateral swap lines.
  • Informal Country Groupings – Those groupings that act as norm-setters, such as the Group of Seven (G7) and Group of 20 (G20)
  • Formal but non-universal norm-setting bodies, in particular the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
  • Rules, Policies, and Agreements - This includes a vast array of international treaties, conventions, codes of conduct, and customary practices that govern areas such as:
    • Exchange rate regimes
    • Capital controls
    • Debt resolution frameworks (e.g., Paris Club, Common Framework for Debt Treatments)
    • International trade rules (e.g., World Trade Organization agreements)
    • International tax cooperation (e.g., efforts to combat tax evasion and avoidance)

What are issues with international funding ecosystem?

  • Dominance of Developed Countries - The IFA, particularly institutions like the IMF and World Bank (known as the Bretton Woods Institutions or BWIs), was largely designed by and for industrialized countries after World War II.
  • Voting shares and leadership positions are disproportionately held by wealthy nations, giving them undue influence over decision-making and leads to a structural under-representation of the Global South.
  • Gentleman's Agreement - A long-standing informal agreement ensures that the head of the IMF is European and the head of the World Bank is American, further entrenching the imbalance of power.
  • Massive Financing Gap - There is an estimated annual financing gap of $4 trillion for developing countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
  • Insufficient MDB Lending - While Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) are vital, their lending capacity is often seen as insufficient to meet the growing demands
  • Declining Official Development Assistance (ODA) - ODA from high-income countries is under pressure due to domestic fiscal constraints and competing priorities.
  • One-Size-Fits-All Approach - Critics argue that IFIs often apply uniform policy solutions that do not adequately reflect the unique political, social, and economic circumstances of individual countries, especially fragile and conflict-affected states.
  • Diversion of Development Funds – Some countries have allegedly diverting funds from International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) towards increased military expenditure rather than towards developmental purposes.

What is Compromiso de Sevilla?

  • Compromiso de Sevilla (Seville Commitment) – It is the outcome document of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), held in Sevilla, Spain.
  • Adoption - It was intergovernmentally negotiated and adopted by UN Member States to lay the foundation for a renewed global framework for financing sustainable development.
  • Renewed Global Financing Framework - It serves as a cornerstone for a revitalized global framework for financing sustainable development, building upon previous agreements like the Addis Ababa Action Agenda (2015).

1

  • Addressing the Financing Gap - A primary goal is to tackle the widening $4 trillion annual financing gap faced by developing countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
  • Mobilizing Resources - The commitment aims to catalyze a large-scale investment push from all sources (public, private, philanthropic) and make the international financial architecture more responsive to countries in need.
  • Multilateralism - Despite some divisions and the withdrawal of the United States from negotiations, the adoption of the Compromiso de Sevilla by consensus is seen as a demonstration that multilateralism can work and deliver results.
  • Sevilla Platform for Action (SPA) - Launched alongside the Compromiso de Sevilla, the SPA brings together over 130 initiatives designed to implement the commitments of the outcome document.

What can be done?

  • India has been demanding reforms to the international financial architecture to enhance inclusivity and equity, including MDB reforms and fairer credit rating systems.
  • MDB lending needs to be aligned with long-term development goals and backed by robust monitoring frameworks to ensure that funds are used as intended.

References

  1. The Hindu | Multilateral bank lending
  2. UN | Compromiso de Sevilla

Prelim Bits

INS Tabar


Prelims : Current events of national importance and international importance

Why in News?

INS Tabar takes part in a rescue mission as it responds to a distress call from Pulau-flagged MT Yi Cheng 6, in the Gulf of Oman, which caught a fire in the engine room and total power failure onboard.

  • INS Tabar is a Talwar-class frigate of the Indian Navy, designated as F44.
  • It was built in Russia and commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2004.
  • It is the 1st naval vessel to take deterrent action against piracy.
  • It is a stealth frigate equipped with advanced weapons and sensors for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
  • INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy's Western Fleet and is based in Mumbai.
  • Capabilities - Equipped with advanced weapons, sensors, and electronic warfare suites for various warfare operations.
  • It also has aviation assets like helicopters and advanced firefighting and damage control systems.
  • Notable Activities
    • INS Tabar has been involved in counter-piracy operations,
    • Participated in exercises with other navies, and
    • Represented the Indian Navy at international events like the Russian Navy Day celebrations.
  • Recent Activities - In July 2024, INS Tabar visited Hamburg, Germany, and conducted a Maritime Partnership Exercise with the German Navy.

Reference

The Hindu | INS Tabar

Prelim Bits

SDG–National Indicator Framework Progress Report, 2025


Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance

Why in News?

Recently, on the occasion of 19th Statistics Day (29th June), the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released various publications on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Released by – Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
  • Objectives - To present the time series data on the SDG national indicators, which will be instrumental in monitoring the national-level progress of the 17 SDGs. 
  • 4 mains sections
    • Overview summary & Executive summary
    • Data Snapshots
    • Metadata
    • Data Tables
  • Expansion in social security coverage – The population covered by social protection systems/floors has increased to 64.3% in 2025.
  • Improved agricultural productivity & income per worker – The Gross Value Added in agriculture per worker (in Rs.) has increased from 61,247 in 2015-16 to 94,110 in 2024-25.
  • Universal safe water access in rural India – Percentage of population using an improved drinking water source in rural areas has increased to 99.62% in 2024-25.
  • Cleaner and sustainable energy generation – The renewable energy share in the total installed electricity generation has increased to 22.13% in 2024-25.
  • Waste management infrastructure – Number of waste recycling plant installed have increased to 3036 in 2024- 25.
  • Growth in entrepreneurship – The number of start-ups recognised under start-up India have increased to 34,293 in 2024.
  • Reduced income inequality – The Gini coefficient of household expenditure has decreased in rural areas and in urban areas.

The Gini index, or Gini coefficient, measures income inequality in nations by determining how income is distributed across their populations.

  • Low-carbon economy – The reduction in emissions intensity of GDP in 2020 over 2005 level is 36%.
  • Rise in digital connectivity – The total number of internet subscriptions (in millions) has increased to 954.40 in 2024.
  • Rise in the country’s forest areas – The forest cover a percentage of total geographical area has increased from 21.34% in 2015 to 21.76% in 2023.

SDG Report

Reference

PIB| SDG National Indicator Framework Progress Report, 2025

Prelim Bits

National Sample Survey (NSS)


Prelims : Current events of National and International Importance

Why in News?

Recently, 19th Statistics day was celebrated to commemorate 132nd Birth Anniversary of Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis with the theme ‘75 Years of National Sample Survey’.

National Statistics Day is celebrated on June 29th every year in India.

  • Established in – 1950, by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation.
  • It was inspired by the vision of P.C. Mahalanobis
  • Objectives – To provide reliable, timely, and comparable socio-economic statistics through sample surveys.
  • 4 divisions
    • Survey Design and Research Division (SDRD)
    • Field Operations Division (FOD)
    • Data Processing Division (DPD)
    • Survey Coordination Division (SCD)
  • Headed by – A Director General, who is responsible for conduct of large scale sample surveys in diverse fields on All India basis.
  • Data collection – They are collected through nation-wide household surveys on various socio-economic subjects, Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), etc.
  • It also collects data on rural and urban prices.
  • Significance – It plays a significant role in the improvement of crop statistics through supervision of the area enumeration and crop estimation surveys of the State agencies. 
  • It also maintains a frame of urban area units for use in sample surveys in urban areas.

Recent launches of NSS
  • e-Sankhyiki Portal – It was launched on National Statistics Day 2024.
  • It is designed to create a comprehensive system for managing and sharing data, facilitating the easy dissemination of official statistics across the country.
  • GoIStat mobile App – It was launched to enhance the ease of access of official statistical data.
  • It represents NSO’s vision of creating an inclusive data ecosystem where every stakeholder can seamlessly access official data.

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis (1893-1972)

  • Contribution – He played a key role in establishing the
    • National Sample Survey
    • Central Statistical Organization
  • These institutions continue to shape India's statistical landscape.
  • His influence on India's Planning Commission, particularly the 2nd Five-Year Plan (1956-1961), was significant.
  • He served as the chairman of the United Nations Sub-Commission on Sampling from 1947 to 1951.
  • Recognition - He was known as the "Father of Statistics" in India.

Reference

PIB| 75 Years of National Sample Survey

Prelim Bits

Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC)


Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance

Why in news?

Recently 36 workers were killed at the factory in the explosion of the Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) drying unit at Sigachi Industries, Hyderabad.

  • Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) – It is a chemically inert, derived from purified and partially depolymerized cellulose, commonly sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters.

Chemically inert means that a substance has very low reactivity and does not readily form chemical bonds with other substances.

  • The human body does not absorb it and so the skin shows no reaction.
  • Unique property – Its ability to form strong compacts and facilitate drug release, make it an essential component in various drug products.

Key Applications

  • Pharmaceuticals – It is widely used as a binder, filler, Disintegrant and texturiser.
  • Binder – It helps in forming cohesive mass of powder during tablet manufacturing, holding the drug and other excipients together.
  • Disintegrant – It aids in the breakdown of tablets in the body, allowing for faster drug release.
  • It also helps to maintain drug weight
  • Filler – It provides bulk to the tablet, especially when the drug dose is low, and ensures active ingredients function effectively.
  • Food industry – It is used as an anti-caking agent and fat substitute.
  • It also adds texture to processed foods.
  • Cosmetics – It is used in creams, powders, and makeup for consistency and texture. 
  • Safety concerns in manufacturing – Though MCC is safe for consumers, its manufacturing involves hazardous processes.
  • It requires strict safety protocols, trained personnel, and equipment maintenance.
  • Concerns – Global scrutiny expected on manufacturing standards and adherence to safety norms.
  • India’s pharma industry is a major foreign exchange earner.
  • Recommended safety practices – HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) must be conducted by qualified experts.
  • Continuous monitoring of plant data for abnormalities.
  • Operators must be trained and maintain high safety awareness.
  • Strict adherence to global safety standards to avoid future tragedies.

Reference

The Hindu | Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC)

Prelim Bits

Report on Agriculture Output (2023-24)


Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance| Agriculture

Why in news?

Recently National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the annual publication of “Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors (2011-12 to 2023-24).

Major Trends in Fruits and Vegetables

  • Gross Value Added (GVA) – GVA of agriculture and allied sectors at current prices registered a growth of about 225%, increasing from Rs 1,502 thousand crore in 2011-12 to Rs 4,878 thousand crore in 2023-24.

GVA 1

  • Gross Value of Output (GVO) – GVO from the agriculture and allied sector at constant prices has shown steady growth of approximately 54.6%.

Gross Value of Output (GVO) represents the total value of production of goods in agriculture and allied sectors, before deducting the cost of inputs.

  • Crop sector – It remains the largest contributor to total GVO (at constant prices) of agriculture and allied sectors with share of 54.1% in 2023-24.
  • Cereals and fruits & vegetables together accounted for 52.5% of total crop GVO in 2023-24.
  • Five States namely Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana and Haryana contributed nearly 53% of GVO (at constant prices) of cereals in 2023-24.
  • Among the cereals, only paddy and wheat constitute approximately 85% of GVO (at constant prices) of all cereals in 2023-24.

GVA 2

  • Other Notable Fruits,
    • Watermelon - 119%
    • Cherry - 99%
    • Banana & Mosambi - 88% each
    • Muskmelon - 87%
  • Rising share of animal products – The share of meat in agriculture GVO rose from 5% (2011-12) to 7.5% (2023-24) (constant prices).
  • Decline in traditional staples – The share of cereals in agriculture GVO fell from 17.6% to 14.5% over the same period.
  • It reflects a structural shift away from staple crops toward high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, spices, and animal products.

Changing food consumption patterns

  • Rural – The share of fresh fruits in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) rose from 2.25% to 2.66%.
  • About 63.8% of rural households consumed fresh fruits in 2011-12; rose to 90.3% by 2022-23.
  • Sharp fall in share of cereals in MPCE from 10.69% to 4.97%.
  • Urban – The share of fresh fruits in MPCE slightly declined from 2.64% to 2.61%.
  • Sharp fall in share of cereals in MPCE from 6.61% to 3.74%.
  • Structural shifts – The report indicates a nutritional shift and growing emphasis on high-value crops likely due to,
  • Technological advancements in agriculture.
  • Evolving consumer preferences toward fruits, vegetables, meat, and spices.
  • Rising incomes, especially among rural households.

Reference

  1. The Indian Express| Agriculture Output Report
  2. PIB| Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture

Prelim Bits

UPSC Daily Current Affairs| Prelimbits 03-07-2025


INS Tabar

Prelims: Current events of national importance and international importance

Why in News?

INS Tabar takes part in a rescue mission as it responds to a distress call from Pulau-flagged MT Yi Cheng 6, in the Gulf of Oman, which caught a fire in the engine room and total power failure onboard.

  • INS Tabar is a Talwar-class frigate of the Indian Navy, designated as F44.
  • It was built in Russia and commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2004.
  • It is the 1st naval vessel to take deterrent action against piracy.
  • It is a stealth frigate equipped with advanced weapons and sensors for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
  • INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy's Western Fleet and is based in Mumbai.
  • Capabilities - Equipped with advanced weapons, sensors, and electronic warfare suites for various warfare operations.
  • It also has aviation assets like helicopters and advanced firefighting and damage control systems.
  • Notable Activities
    • INS Tabar has been involved in counter-piracy operations,
    • Participated in exercises with other navies, and
    • Represented the Indian Navy at international events like the Russian Navy Day celebrations.
  • Recent Activities - In July 2024, INS Tabar visited Hamburg, Germany, and conducted a Maritime Partnership Exercise with the German Navy.

Reference

The Hindu | INS Tabar

 

SDG–National Indicator Framework Progress Report, 2025

Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance

Why in News?

Recently, on the occasion of 19th Statistics Day (29th June), the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released various publications on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Released by – Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
  • Objectives - To present the time series data on the SDG national indicators, which will be instrumental in monitoring the national-level progress of the 17 SDGs. 
  • 4 mains sections
    • Overview summary & Executive summary
    • Data Snapshots
    • Metadata
    • Data Tables
  • Expansion in social security coverage – The population covered by social protection systems/floors has increased to 64.3% in 2025.
  • Improved agricultural productivity & income per worker – The Gross Value Added in agriculture per worker (in Rs.) has increased from 61,247 in 2015-16 to 94,110 in 2024-25.
  • Universal safe water access in rural India – Percentage of population using an improved drinking water source in rural areas has increased to 99.62% in 2024-25.
  • Cleaner and sustainable energy generation – The renewable energy share in the total installed electricity generation has increased to 22.13% in 2024-25.
  • Waste management infrastructure – Number of waste recycling plant installed have increased to 3036 in 2024- 25.
  • Growth in entrepreneurship – The number of start-ups recognised under start-up India have increased to 34,293 in 2024.
  • Reduced income inequality – The Gini coefficient of household expenditure has decreased in rural areas and in urban areas.

The Gini index, or Gini coefficient, measures income inequality in nations by determining how income is distributed across their populations.

  • Low-carbon economy – The reduction in emissions intensity of GDP in 2020 over 2005 level is 36%.
  • Rise in digital connectivity – The total number of internet subscriptions (in millions) has increased to 954.40 in 2024.
  • Rise in the country’s forest areas – The forest cover a percentage of total geographical area has increased from 21.34% in 2015 to 21.76% in 2023.

SDG Report

Reference

PIB| SDG National Indicator Framework Progress Report, 2025

 

National Sample Survey (NSS)

Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance

Why in News?

Recently, 19th Statistics day was celebrated to commemorate 132nd Birth Anniversary of Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis with the theme ‘75 Years of National Sample Survey’.

National Statistics Day is celebrated on June 29th every year in India.

  • Established in – 1950, by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation.
  • It was inspired by the vision of P.C. Mahalanobis
  • Objectives – To provide reliable, timely, and comparable socio-economic statistics through sample surveys.
  • 4 divisions
    • Survey Design and Research Division (SDRD)
    • Field Operations Division (FOD)
    • Data Processing Division (DPD)
    • Survey Coordination Division (SCD)
  • Headed by – A Director General, who is responsible for conduct of large scale sample surveys in diverse fields on All India basis.
  • Data collection – They are collected through nation-wide household surveys on various socio-economic subjects, Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), etc.
  • It also collects data on rural and urban prices.
  • Significance – It plays a significant role in the improvement of crop statistics through supervision of the area enumeration and crop estimation surveys of the State agencies. 
  • It also maintains a frame of urban area units for use in sample surveys in urban areas.

Recent launches of NSS
  • e-Sankhyiki Portal – It was launched on National Statistics Day 2024.
  • It is designed to create a comprehensive system for managing and sharing data, facilitating the easy dissemination of official statistics across the country.
  • GoIStat mobile App – It was launched to enhance the ease of access of official statistical data.
  • It represents NSO’s vision of creating an inclusive data ecosystem where every stakeholder can seamlessly access official data.

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis (1893-1972)

  • Contribution – He played a key role in establishing the
    • National Sample Survey
    • Central Statistical Organization
  • These institutions continue to shape India's statistical landscape.
  • His influence on India's Planning Commission, particularly the 2nd Five-Year Plan (1956-1961), was significant.
  • He served as the chairman of the United Nations Sub-Commission on Sampling from 1947 to 1951.
  • Recognition - He was known as the "Father of Statistics" in India.

Reference

PIB| 75 Years of National Sample Survey

 

Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC)

Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance

Why in news?

Recently 36 workers were killed at the factory in the explosion of the Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) drying unit at Sigachi Industries, Hyderabad.

  • Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) – It is a chemically inert, derived from purified and partially depolymerized cellulose, commonly sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters.

Chemically inert means that a substance has very low reactivity and does not readily form chemical bonds with other substances.

  • The human body does not absorb it and so the skin shows no reaction.
  • Unique property – Its ability to form strong compacts and facilitate drug release, make it an essential component in various drug products.

Key Applications

  • Pharmaceuticals – It is widely used as a binder, filler, Disintegrant and texturiser.
  • Binder – It helps in forming cohesive mass of powder during tablet manufacturing, holding the drug and other excipients together.
  • Disintegrant – It aids in the breakdown of tablets in the body, allowing for faster drug release.
  • It also helps to maintain drug weight
  • Filler – It provides bulk to the tablet, especially when the drug dose is low, and ensures active ingredients function effectively.
  • Food industry – It is used as an anti-caking agent and fat substitute.
  • It also adds texture to processed foods.
  • Cosmetics – It is used in creams, powders, and makeup for consistency and texture. 
  • Safety concerns in manufacturing – Though MCC is safe for consumers, its manufacturing involves hazardous processes.
  • It requires strict safety protocols, trained personnel, and equipment maintenance.
  • Concerns – Global scrutiny expected on manufacturing standards and adherence to safety norms.
  • India’s pharma industry is a major foreign exchange earner.
  • Recommended safety practices – HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) must be conducted by qualified experts.
  • Continuous monitoring of plant data for abnormalities.
  • Operators must be trained and maintain high safety awareness.
  • Strict adherence to global safety standards to avoid future tragedies.

Reference

The Hindu | Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC)

 

Report on Agriculture Output (2023-24)

Prelims: Current events of National and International Importance| Agriculture

Why in news?

Recently National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the annual publication of “Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors (2011-12 to 2023-24).

Major Trends in Fruits and Vegetables

  • Gross Value Added (GVA) – GVA of agriculture and allied sectors at current prices registered a growth of about 225%, increasing from Rs 1,502 thousand crore in 2011-12 to Rs 4,878 thousand crore in 2023-24.

GVA 1

  • Gross Value of Output (GVO) – GVO from the agriculture and allied sector at constant prices has shown steady growth of approximately 54.6%.

Gross Value of Output (GVO) represents the total value of production of goods in agriculture and allied sectors, before deducting the cost of inputs.

  • Crop sector – It remains the largest contributor to total GVO (at constant prices) of agriculture and allied sectors with share of 54.1% in 2023-24.
  • Cereals and fruits & vegetables together accounted for 52.5% of total crop GVO in 2023-24.
  • Five States namely Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana and Haryana contributed nearly 53% of GVO (at constant prices) of cereals in 2023-24.
  • Among the cereals, only paddy and wheat constitute approximately 85% of GVO (at constant prices) of all cereals in 2023-24.

GVA 2

  • Other Notable Fruits,
    • Watermelon - 119%
    • Cherry - 99%
    • Banana & Mosambi - 88% each
    • Muskmelon - 87%
  • Rising share of animal products – The share of meat in agriculture GVO rose from 5% (2011-12) to 7.5% (2023-24) (constant prices).
  • Decline in traditional staples – The share of cereals in agriculture GVO fell from 17.6% to 14.5% over the same period.
  • It reflects a structural shift away from staple crops toward high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, spices, and animal products.

Changing food consumption patterns

  • Rural – The share of fresh fruits in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) rose from 2.25% to 2.66%.
  • About 63.8% of rural households consumed fresh fruits in 2011-12; rose to 90.3% by 2022-23.
  • Sharp fall in share of cereals in MPCE from 10.69% to 4.97%.
  • Urban – The share of fresh fruits in MPCE slightly declined from 2.64% to 2.61%.
  • Sharp fall in share of cereals in MPCE from 6.61% to 3.74%.
  • Structural shifts – The report indicates a nutritional shift and growing emphasis on high-value crops likely due to,
  • Technological advancements in agriculture.
  • Evolving consumer preferences toward fruits, vegetables, meat, and spices.
  • Rising incomes, especially among rural households.

Reference

  1. The Indian Express| Agriculture Output Report
  2. PIB| Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture

 

One Liners 2-07-2025

History, Art and Culture

Harappan Discovery in Gujarat

 A 5,300-year-old Early Harappan settlement and burial site was found recently in Lakhapar village, Kutch, Gujarat.

  • Findings - Archaeologists unearthed an Early Harappan living area and a unique burial from around 3300-2600 BCE.
  • Unique Burial -  The burial, a first for Gujarat, was directly in a pit with pottery linked to older Chalcolithic cultures.
  • Signs of Interaction - The site shows Harappan-style buildings and pottery, suggesting trade and interaction with Sindh.
  • Wider Network - This discovery, along with a nearby cemetery, hints at a larger ancient cultural network in Gujarat.
  • Historical Impact - It challenges past ideas, showing different ancient groups lived together and expands our understanding of Early Harappan influence.

Geography

Ghana

India's Prime Minister will make a two-day state visit to Ghana, the first by an Indian PM in over three decades.

  • About Ghana Located in West Africa, Ghana's capital is Accra. It borders Burkina Faso, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Land Features Ghana has ancient plains, with the Akwapim-Togo Ranges featuring Mount Afadjato, its highest peak.
  • Major Rivers  - The Volta River system is key.
  • Lake Volta - Being one of the world's largest artificial lakes, formed by the Akosombo Dam.
  • Diverse Soils - Ghana's soils vary from common lateritic soils to fertile ochrosols, good for farming, and heavy Akuse clays.
  • Coastal Zones -Less fertile coastal savanna zones are dominated by vleisols and acidic gray earths.

 

Polity & Governance

ELI Scheme: Boosting Jobs in India

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, Recently approved in  aims to create jobs, especially in manufacturing.

  • Launched by  -  Ministry of Labour & Employment
  • Big Goal It's part of a ₹2 lakh crore initiative to help 4.1 crore youth, targeting over 3.5 crore new jobs in two years.
  • Two Main Parts Part A helps new employees, while Part B supports employers.
  • Help for New Employees (Part A) First-time employees (EPFO registered) get one month's salary (up to ₹15,000) in two payments, linked to a financial literacy program.
  • Support for Employers (Part B) Employers get up to ₹3,000 monthly for each new hire (up to ₹1 lakh salary) for two years, with extra benefits for manufacturing jobs.
  • Simple Payments Payments are made directly to employees via Aadhaar and to employers' PAN-linked accounts for transparency.

Bihar Pioneers Mobile e-Voting

Bihar has recently launched India's first mobile e-voting system for local elections, with 70.2% participation via the "E-SECBHR" app.

  •  New system - Allows eligible voters to cast votes remotely using a secure mobile app, developed by C-DAC.
  •  Aims to - Make voting easier for the elderly, disabled, pregnant women, and those far from polling booths, promoting digital access.
  • Procedure - Voters download the app, link their phone number, and verify their ID using facial recognition to vote on election day.
  • Security Features - It uses blockchain technology for secure, unchangeable votes, facial recognition, and strict login rules to prevent tampering.
  • Big Impact - This initiative sets a precedent for digital election reform, with Bibha Kumari being the first to vote by phone, potentially influencing future national elections.

 

International Relations and Issues

Pakistan Leads UN Security Council

On July 1, 2025, Pakistan started its month-long role as President of the UN Security Council. This is a big moment in their two-year term.

  • Pakistan's leadership -is important as global conflicts and crises are increasing.
  • Main Goals - Pakistan aims for transparent leadership, focusing on UN rules, peaceful solutions, and global teamwork.
  • Key Meetings Pakistan's Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad will lead, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar chairing major debates on peace, Palestine, and cooperation with the OIC.
  • Strategic Focus Pakistan plans to discuss India's actions and will influence Afghan peace as chair of the Taliban Sanctions Committee.
  • Crucial Time This presidency happens amid growing global conflicts and demands for UN changes.

Security

INS Udaygiri

 On July 1, 2025, the Indian Navy received INS Udaygiri, a new stealth warship. It's the second of seven advanced Project 17A frigates.

  • Advanced Warships - Project 17A frigates are upgraded versions with better stealth and weapons, capable of operating in deep seas.
  • Smart Construction - Udaygiri was built quickly using a smart "Integrated Construction" method, reflecting India's own design skills.
  • Powerful Features - It has a larger hull, a combined diesel and gas engine, and advanced missiles for defense.
  • Made in India - This project boosts self-reliance, creating over 4,000 direct and 10,000 indirect jobs, involving many small businesses.
  • More to Come - Five more such warships are being built, expected by late 2026, further strengthening India's navy.

Brazil Eyes India's Akash Missile System

Recently Brazil has shown Interest to buy India's Akash Air Defence System after its success in 'Operation Sindoor,' ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit.