Buddhism in Modern India

Mains Syllabus: GS I – History & Culture

Why in the News?

Buddha Purnima 2025 was observed on May 12, 2025, celebrating Gautam Buddha's 2587th birth anniversary.

How was Buddhism revived in modern India?

• Rediscovery of Buddhist Monuments – The efforts of the British archaeologists and explorers in the nineteenth century commenced the rediscovery of Buddhism by bringing to light the rich Buddhist heritage.
• Discovery of Ashokan pillars and rock edicts in the 18^th and 19^th century.
• The Great Sanchi Stupa was the first Buddhist shrine to be discovered in modern India by in 1818 by General Taylor.
• Alexander Cunnigham in 1851 made an important discovery at Sanchi in 1851 when he unsealed the Sanchi Stupas for the first time.
• He unearthed the well-preserved gateways, or Torana’s, which were adorned with elaborate carvings illustrating Buddhist stories and teachings.
• Entrepreneurial Patronage - J.K. Birla financed major Buddhist constructions in pilgrimage centres like Rajgir, Sarnath, Bodh Gaya, and also in new centres of “urban Buddhist activity”, including Calcutta, Bombay, and New Delhi.
• Buddha Gaya Maha Bodhi Society - Anagarika Dharmapala, a Sri Lankan Buddhist reformer, played a crucial role in reviving interest in Buddhism in India.
• Theosophical society - Colonel Henry Steel Olcott, Madame Helena Blavatsky led the revival of Buddhism in India through the society.
• Role of Social Reformers - Social reformers like Jyotirao Phule, Iyotheedasa Pandithar and B.R Ambedkar in the late 19th and early 20th centuries advocated for Buddhism as a means of challenging caste oppression and social inequality.

On October 14, 1956, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, publicly converted to Buddhism in Nagpur along with over 400,000 of his followers, primarily from Scheduled Castes (Dalits).

• Tibetan Buddhism - After the Tibetan uprising in 1959, the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan refugees settled in India.
• This brought Tibetan Buddhist traditions into India, creating monasteries and communities in places like Dharamshala and Ladakh.

What are the effects of revival of Buddhism in colonial and post-colonial India?

• Revival of Buddhist Philosophy - The revival of Buddhist archaeological heritage sites helped in connecting its monumental past with its philosophy.

• Hindu Reform Movements - The revival of Buddhism challenged Hindu orthodoxy, particularly the caste system, prompting Hindu reformers to introspect and adapt.
• Dalit and anti-caste activism – Anti-caste leaders like Jyotirao Phule, B.R. Ambedkar have used Buddhism as socio religious tool to find against caste oppression and for equality.
• The threat of conversion to Buddhism (and other religions) encouraged reformist Hindus to become more inclusive of lower castes, at least rhetorically.
• Making of Hindu Nationalism - Hindu nationalists responded to the Buddhist revival, especially Ambedkar’s movement, by reasserting a unified Hindu identity that downplayed internal divisions.
• Nehruvian Secular Democracy – Buddhism was an important cornerstone for building India a secular democracy post-independence.

What are the importances of Buddhist monuments?

• Reflecting Years of History - Lives of the monuments resonated with the people and communities around them, including monks, laity, kings, traders, guilds, landlords, agriculturalists, and villagers.
• Deciphering the Past - Inscriptions, sculptures, and iconography provide key evidence for reconstructing ancient Indian history, society, and art.
• Capture the Changing Times - The buildings are “complex ecosystems” which capture the changing times and give an idea about belief systems, rituals, stories, and folklore.
• For instance, the sculptured panels on the gateways of Sanchi not only depict events from the life of the Buddha but also the Jataka tales and the mythical bodhisattvas.
• Preservation of Texts - Many caves and monasteries were repositories of Buddhist manuscripts and teachings.
• Social Cultural Interactions - Over time, the monumental structures have acquired different forms and meanings, and have also become important sites of social and cultural interactions.
• Places of Pilgrimage - Sites like Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar, and Lumbini (in Nepal) are sacred places associated with the life of the Buddha—his birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and death.
• Spiritual Legacy - They preserve the teachings of the Buddha in a visual and symbolic form, inspiring faith and practice.
• Inspirations to Art and Architecture - Sites like Ajanta Caves (with murals), Sanchi Stupa, and Borobudur (Indonesia) display exquisite artistic achievement.

What are the significances of Buddhism in contemporary India?

• Recovering from Self Obsession - In an era of social media obsession, the world is increasingly getting obsessed with self-promotion.
• Often, a ‘perfect’ identity is carefully curated on social media with a focus on the self.
• The teachings of the Buddha said thousands of years ago that the self is an illusion and that our belief in it is the cause of most, if not all, of our sufferings.
• Promotion of Peace, Non-Violence, and Compassion - Buddhism’s core teachings—non-violence, compassion, mindfulness, and the Middle Path—remain influential in shaping India’s moral and ethical landscape.
• These principles are celebrated during festivals like Buddha Purnima and are increasingly recognized as universal values relevant to India’s pluralistic society.
• Interfaith Harmony - Buddhism promotes tolerance and compassion, helping to build bridges in a religiously diverse society.
• Soft Power - India leverages its Buddhist heritage as a cornerstone of its soft power and diplomatic outreach, especially within Asia.
• Initiatives such as the International Buddhist Circuit, restoration of Buddhist sites, and the exposition of holy relics serve to strengthen spiritual and cultural ties with Buddhist-majority countries.

Conclusion

• In essence, Buddhism in contemporary India is both a spiritual tradition and a dynamic force for social change, cultural identity, and international engagement.

References

The Hindu | Understanding the social, cultural and geographical contexts of Buddhism

To Practice Question Click Here

Reviving the Manufacturing Sector

Mains Syllabus: GS III - Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.

Why in the News?

Recently Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) has released Competitiveness Index (CI) for the year 2025.

Why is the manufacturing sector essential for India?

• Employment Generation - Manufacturing provides employment to millions, especially for semi-skilled and unskilled workers, which is vital in a country with a large and young labour force and addressing employment issues in India.
• Strengthen Forex - A strong manufacturing base boosts exports, improves trade balance, and brings in foreign exchange.
• Support for Other Sectors - Manufacturing has strong backward and forward linkages with agriculture (e.g., food processing) and services (e.g., logistics, design, and maintenance).
• Urbanization - Manufacturing leads to the development of industrial zones, towns, and cities, boosting urban infrastructure and services.
• Infrastructure Development – Transport and Logistics demands better connectivity, prompting investments in roads, ports, railways, and logistics networks.
• National Security - Domestic manufacturing in areas like defense, electronics, and pharmaceuticals strengthens national security.

What are challenges faced by India’s manufacturing sector?

• Less Growth – Manufacturing sector’s share of gross domestic product (GDP), from 16 % in 2015 to just 13 % in 2023.
• Stagnant Contribution to Global Share - India’s share in global manufacturing exports has remained largely stagnant in recent years, inching up from 1.7 % in 2017 to 1.8 % in 2023, while Vietnam’s share rose from 1.5 % to 1.9 %.
• Inadequate Global Integration - Despite its large economic size, India has struggled to integrate into manufacturing global value chains (GVCs), unlike many of its Asian peers.
• High and Fragmented Tariff Regime - It inflates input costs, reduces export competitiveness, and pushes firms to focus on domestic rather than global markets.
• Absence From Major Trade Blocs – India’s rejection to join major trade groups such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) puts its exporters at a disadvantage compared to peers like Vietnam.
• Regulatory Restrictions - Current labour laws impose restrictions once firms cross certain workforce size limits, discouraging expansion.
• Inadeqaute Technology and R&D Investment - India invests only 0.6% of its GDP in R&D, which is insufficient compared to competitors like Malaysia (0.9 per cent) and Thailand (1.2%).
• Despite various government incentives, private R&D remains low, primarily due to limited competitive pressure.

What needs to be done?

• To move forward, it is critical to identify and address the structural barriers limiting India’s participation in GVCs compared to its competitors.
• By dismantling protectionist policies, embracing deeper FTAs with key partners, enhancing internal labour mobility, investing in clusters and industrial parks, improving regulatory frameworks, and prioritising technological innovation, India can better compete in the global marketplace and leverage emerging opportunities.
• Tariff reform must be seen not merely as a fiscal issue but as a strategy for integrating into global value chains, which cover 70 per cent of the global trade.
• India needs to deepen its FTA engagement, signing agreements with new partners and deepening existing agreements.
• In today’s environment of trade tensions and a weakening multilateral system, bilateral agreements remain the most politically viable option.
• Regulatory reform is crucial to help firms grow and scale.
• Effective urban planning and affordable housing policies are vital to boost labour mobility and lower costs for both workers and employers.
• Practical measures, such as building worker dormitories and improving transport, can significantly attract skilled workers, especially women, who remain vastly underrepresented in India’s workforce.
• Addressing these challenges will help resolve labour shortages, boost productivity, and strengthen India’s manufacturing competitiveness.
• India needs to prioritise technology adoption and scale up investment in R&D to move up the value chain — from producing low-value-added goods to high-value-added, high-tech products.
• To increase manufacturing’s share of GDP from 13% to 25% over the next decade — assuming GDP growth of 6.5% — the sector must grow at an average annual rate of 13.6%.

References

Business Standard | Reviving Manufacturing

UPSC Daily Current Affairs| Prelim Bits 24-05-2025

SPICED Scheme

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

The Spices Board recently unveiled the Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative, and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED) scheme for FY 2025–26.

• Nodal Agency- Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Aims to - Boost the productivity of small and large cardamom, enhance post-harvest quality, and encourage the production and export of value-added, GI-tagged, and organic spices.
• It also focuses on ensuring compliance with global food safety standards and strengthening stakeholder capacity across the value chain.
• It also offers financial assistance across various components to enhance sustainability, foster innovation, and promote export development in the Indian spices sector.
• Farm-Level Support - The scheme supports replanting and rejuvenation of cardamom, water resource development, micro-irrigation, organic farming, and Good agricultural practices (GAP).
• Financial assistance - Is provided for improved post-harvest infrastructure, including modern dryers, slicers, dehullers, and grading machines, guaranteeing superior product quality.
• Farmers & Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) - Can also procure essential machines like spice polishers and turmeric boilers.
• Entrepreneurship - SPICED supports the creation of Spice Incubation Centres, fostering entrepreneurship and product development for startups and MSMEs.
• Enhancing - Market access and branding for Indian spices.
• Capacity Building - Through training and extension services, the scheme empowers spice farmers, SHGs, and FPOs with the latest technical know-how, best practices, and crucial market intelligence, improving their overall capabilities.
• Export Promotion - The scheme assists in participating in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and other market linkage programs.
• The scheme aids in export development and promotion by assisting first-time exporters and small businesses in participating in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and market linkage programs, enabling them to showcase Indian spices globally
• Eligible - Exporters with a valid Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES), with preference given to first-time applicants and SMEs are Eligible
• Transparency & Accountability - All scheme activities will be geo-tagged. Information on fund availability, application status, and beneficiary lists will be publicly available on the Spices Board's website, ensuring full transparency.
• Cultivating India's Global Spice Leadership - The Spices Board is implementing the SPICED scheme to enhance India's global spice leadership through innovation, quality enhancement, and inclusive development, providing support to stakeholders throughout the application process.

References

1. Business line
2. United News of India

Rah-Veer Scheme

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Recently Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved the implementation of Rah-Veer Scheme.

• Rah-Veer scheme – It is a formal reward-based initiative was launched in April 2025 by the Union Government.
• It is the erstwhile Scheme for grant of Award to the Good Samaritan who has saved life of a victim of a fatal.
• Launched by – Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
• Objective – To encourage fellow citizens to assist road accident victims within the “Golden Hour” and save lives.

The "golden hour" in the context of accidents refers to the critical one-hour period immediately following a traumatic injury when prompt medical attention is most crucial for improving a patient's chances of survival and reducing the severity of injuries

Key Provisions:

• Reward – Rs 25,000 per case (earlier Rs 5,000)
• Eligibility – Any citizen who takes a road accident victim to a hospital within the golden hour and helps save a life.
• Process:
  • Hospital notifies police.
  • Police inform the District Collector.
  • Verified individual gets reward via direct bank transfer from the Transport Department.
• It emphasizes on Recognition through certificates and cash awards.
• It boosts morale and encouraging others to assist in emergencies.

As per Ministry of Road, transport and Highways report India reported 1.68 lakh deaths in 2022 and the major cause of the death is delay in getting medical help during Golden hour.

• Legal Backing – The scheme is legally backed to provide legal protection to individuals who assist accident victims and prevents harassment by police or legal authorities.
  • Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019
  • Good Samaritan Rules notified on 29 September 2020

Significance

• Golden Hour Response – Reduces fatality risk drastically.
• WHO says 50% of accident deaths occur within first hour.
• Citizen Participation – Encourages public to become active first responders.
• Legal Clarity – Reduces fear of harassment; encourages help without legal repercussions.
• Support to Emergency Services – Bridges gap until ambulances arrive.
• Public Awareness – Promotes road safety culture and human responsibility.

Reference

Times of India| Rah-Veer Scheme

Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) Portal

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Telangana has emerged as the top-performing state in India in recovering lost or stolen mobile phones through the CEIR portal, with over 78,000 devices recovered as of May 2025.

• CEIR Portal – It is a crucial digital tool designed to recover mobile phones by blocking, tracking and managing lost or stolen devices.
• Launched by - Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Purpose - To combat mobile phone theft and loss by blocking, tracking, and managing lost or stolen devices through their IMEI numbers.

Key Features of CEIR Portal

• IMEI Blocking - The portal enables blocking of mobile phones by blacklisting their unique IMEI numbers.
• Once blocked, these devices become unusable on any cellular network in India, regardless of SIM card changes.
• Centralized Database - CEIR maintains a centralized database accessible to all telecom operators, ensuring consistent enforcement of device blocking and tracking nationwide.
• Device Status Lists - The portal manages three lists -
  • White List - Devices allowed on networks
  • Black List - Lost, stolen, or unauthorized devices banned from networks
  • Grey List - Devices with pending status for verification

• Tracking Lost Phones - CEIR integrates advanced tracking technology to aid in locating and recovering lost or stolen mobile phones.
• Coordination with RPF and Police - The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and other law enforcement agencies can use CEIR to block stolen devices quickly, reducing illegal resale and possession.
• Citizen-Friendly Reporting - Users can report lost or stolen devices via the CEIR portal or integrated police portals, facilitating swift action and recovery.

Reference

The Indian Express| CEIR portal

16^th Asiatic Lion Census

Prelims: Conservation | Ecology and Environment | Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in News?

The 16^th census (2025) on Asiatic Lion by Gujarat Government marks the highest population since conservation efforts began.

The Asiatic lion census is conducted once every 5 years by the Gujarat Forest Department under the State Government.

• Record Population Growth - It records 891 Asiatic lions in Gujarat that is a 32% increase from 2020.
• Expanded Lion Range - The lions now occupy 35,000 sq km across 58 talukas in 11 districts, up from 30,000 sq km in 2020 which is a 17% range expansion in five years.
• New Habitats Identified - Lions have colonised areas like Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur, and Babra-Jasdan, indicating the species' adaptability beyond Gir Forest.

Significance of the Rise

• It reflects successful conservation efforts by the Gujarat government.
• IUCN status upgraded from Critically Endangered to Endangered in 2008.
• It demonstrates the lion’s natural range expansion and adaptive recovery.

Reference

DD News | Gujarat has completed its 16th lion population census

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Recently Delhi Government approves Rs 30,000 subsidy for 3 kW rooftop solar panels, taking total support to Rs 1.08 lakh.

• PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana – It is an initiative to promote renewable energy adoption and providing financial relief to households across India.
• Objective – To promote rooftop solar panel installations in residential homes by providing substantial subsidies and making solar power affordable.
• Target – The scheme aims to benefit 1 crore households across India by 2027.
• As of December 2024, over 26 lakh (2.6 million) rooftop solar systems have been installed under the scheme.
• Subsidy support – The scheme offers a subsidy of up to 40% of the cost of installing rooftop solar systems, with the maximum subsidy capped at Rs 78,000 for systems up to 3 kW capacity.
• The Central Government offers a subsidy of Rs 78,000 for installing rooftop solar panels up to 3 kW capacity.
• Eligibility Criteria – To avail of the benefits, applicants must,
  • Be Indian citizens.
  • Own a residential property with a suitable rooftop for solar panel installation.
  • Have a valid electricity connection.

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in Delhi

• The Delhi government has introduced 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana State Top-Up' scheme to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the initiative.
• Highest Subsidy Support – Delhi offers a total subsidy of Rs 1.08 lakh (Central + State), the highest in India.
• Large-Scale Solar Adoption – The scheme targets installation of rooftop solar panels on 2.3 lakh residential units over the next three years, boosting solar energy use in the capital.
• Significant Electricity Bill Savings - Residents can save around Rs 4,200 monthly on electricity bills, reducing household expenses and easing power demand on the grid.
• Zero Upfront Cost – Easy loan options combined with subsidies allow Delhi citizens to install solar panels without any upfront payment, encouraging wider participation.
• Cleaner and Greener City – Adoption of rooftop solar helps reduce Delhi’s heavy pollution levels by lowering dependence on fossil-fuel-based electricity.
• Energy Security – Distributed solar power generation strengthens Delhi’s energy security by reducing load on the centralized grid and minimizing power outages.
• Supporting Delhi’s Climate Goals – The scheme aligns with Delhi’s commitment to sustainability and clean energy under the National Solar Mission and other environment policies.

Reference

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Recently Delhi Government approves Rs 30,000 subsidy for 3 kW rooftop solar panels, taking total support to Rs 1.08 lakh.

• PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana – It is an initiative to promote renewable energy adoption and providing financial relief to households across India.
• Objective – To promote rooftop solar panel installations in residential homes by providing substantial subsidies and making solar power affordable.
• Target – The scheme aims to benefit 1 crore households across India by 2027.
• As of December 2024, over 26 lakh (2.6 million) rooftop solar systems have been installed under the scheme.
• Subsidy support – The scheme offers a subsidy of up to 40% of the cost of installing rooftop solar systems, with the maximum subsidy capped at Rs 78,000 for systems up to 3 kW capacity.
• The Central Government offers a subsidy of Rs 78,000 for installing rooftop solar panels up to 3 kW capacity.
• Eligibility Criteria – To avail of the benefits, applicants must,
  • Be Indian citizens.
  • Own a residential property with a suitable rooftop for solar panel installation.
  • Have a valid electricity connection.

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in Delhi

• The Delhi government has introduced 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana State Top-Up' scheme to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the initiative.
• Highest Subsidy Support – Delhi offers a total subsidy of Rs 1.08 lakh (Central + State), the highest in India.
• Large-Scale Solar Adoption – The scheme targets installation of rooftop solar panels on 2.3 lakh residential units over the next three years, boosting solar energy use in the capital.
• Significant Electricity Bill Savings - Residents can save around Rs 4,200 monthly on electricity bills, reducing household expenses and easing power demand on the grid.
• Zero Upfront Cost – Easy loan options combined with subsidies allow Delhi citizens to install solar panels without any upfront payment, encouraging wider participation.
• Cleaner and Greener City – Adoption of rooftop solar helps reduce Delhi’s heavy pollution levels by lowering dependence on fossil-fuel-based electricity.
• Energy Security – Distributed solar power generation strengthens Delhi’s energy security by reducing load on the centralized grid and minimizing power outages.
• Supporting Delhi’s Climate Goals – The scheme aligns with Delhi’s commitment to sustainability and clean energy under the National Solar Mission and other environment policies.

Reference

16th Asiatic Lion Census

Prelims: Conservation | Ecology and Environment | Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in News?

The 16^th census (2025) on Asiatic Lion by Gujarat Government marks the highest population since conservation efforts began.

The Asiatic lion census is conducted once every 5 years by the Gujarat Forest Department under the State Government.

• Record Population Growth - It records 891 Asiatic lions in Gujarat that is a 32% increase from 2020.
• Expanded Lion Range - The lions now occupy 35,000 sq km across 58 talukas in 11 districts, up from 30,000 sq km in 2020 which is a 17% range expansion in five years.
• New Habitats Identified - Lions have colonised areas like Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur, and Babra-Jasdan, indicating the species' adaptability beyond Gir Forest.

Significance of the Rise

• It reflects successful conservation efforts by the Gujarat government.
• IUCN status upgraded from Critically Endangered to Endangered in 2008.
• It demonstrates the lion’s natural range expansion and adaptive recovery.

Reference

DD News | Gujarat has completed its 16th lion population census

Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) Portal

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Telangana has emerged as the top-performing state in India in recovering lost or stolen mobile phones through the CEIR portal, with over 78,000 devices recovered as of May 2025.

• CEIR Portal – It is a crucial digital tool designed to recover mobile phones by blocking, tracking and managing lost or stolen devices.
• Launched by - Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Purpose - To combat mobile phone theft and loss by blocking, tracking, and managing lost or stolen devices through their IMEI numbers.

Key Features of CEIR Portal

• IMEI Blocking - The portal enables blocking of mobile phones by blacklisting their unique IMEI numbers.
• Once blocked, these devices become unusable on any cellular network in India, regardless of SIM card changes.
• Centralized Database - CEIR maintains a centralized database accessible to all telecom operators, ensuring consistent enforcement of device blocking and tracking nationwide.
• Device Status Lists - The portal manages three lists -
  • White List - Devices allowed on networks
  • Black List - Lost, stolen, or unauthorized devices banned from networks
  • Grey List - Devices with pending status for verification

• Tracking Lost Phones - CEIR integrates advanced tracking technology to aid in locating and recovering lost or stolen mobile phones.
• Coordination with RPF and Police - The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and other law enforcement agencies can use CEIR to block stolen devices quickly, reducing illegal resale and possession.
• Citizen-Friendly Reporting - Users can report lost or stolen devices via the CEIR portal or integrated police portals, facilitating swift action and recovery.

Reference

The Indian Express| CEIR portal

Rah-Veer Scheme

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

Recently Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved the implementation of Rah-Veer Scheme.

• Rah-Veer scheme – It is a formal reward-based initiative was launched in April 2025 by the Union Government.
• It is the erstwhile Scheme for grant of Award to the Good Samaritan who has saved life of a victim of a fatal.
• Launched by – Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India
• Objective – To encourage fellow citizens to assist road accident victims within the “Golden Hour” and save lives.

The "golden hour" in the context of accidents refers to the critical one-hour period immediately following a traumatic injury when prompt medical attention is most crucial for improving a patient's chances of survival and reducing the severity of injuries

Key Provisions:

• Reward – Rs 25,000 per case (earlier Rs 5,000)
• Eligibility – Any citizen who takes a road accident victim to a hospital within the golden hour and helps save a life.
• Process:
  • Hospital notifies police.
  • Police inform the District Collector.
  • Verified individual gets reward via direct bank transfer from the Transport Department.
• It emphasizes on Recognition through certificates and cash awards.
• It boosts morale and encouraging others to assist in emergencies.

As per Ministry of Road, transport and Highways report India reported 1.68 lakh deaths in 2022 and the major cause of the death is delay in getting medical help during Golden hour.

• Legal Backing – The scheme is legally backed to provide legal protection to individuals who assist accident victims and prevents harassment by police or legal authorities.
  • Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019
  • Good Samaritan Rules notified on 29 September 2020

Significance

• Golden Hour Response – Reduces fatality risk drastically. WHO says 50% of accident deaths occur within first hour.
• Citizen Participation – Encourages public to become active first responders.
• Legal Clarity – Reduces fear of harassment; encourages help without legal repercussions.
• Support to Emergency Services – Bridges gap until ambulances arrive.
• Public Awareness – Promotes road safety culture and human responsibility.

Reference

Times of India| Rah-Veer Scheme

SPICED Scheme

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in news?

The Spices Board recently unveiled the Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative, and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED) scheme for FY 2025–26.

• Nodal Agency- Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Aims to - Boost the productivity of small and large cardamom, enhance post-harvest quality, and encourage the production and export of value-added, GI-tagged, and organic spices.
• It also focuses on ensuring compliance with global food safety standards and strengthening stakeholder capacity across the value chain.
• It also offers financial assistance across various components to enhance sustainability, foster innovation, and promote export development in the Indian spices sector.
• Farm-Level Support - The scheme supports replanting and rejuvenation of cardamom, water resource development, micro-irrigation, organic farming, and Good agricultural practices (GAP).
• Financial assistance - Is provided for improved post-harvest infrastructure, including modern dryers, slicers, dehullers, and grading machines, guaranteeing superior product quality.
• Farmers & Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) - Can also procure essential machines like spice polishers and turmeric boilers.
• Entrepreneurship - SPICED supports the creation of Spice Incubation Centres, fostering entrepreneurship and product development for startups and MSMEs.
• Enhancing - Market access and branding for Indian spices.
• Capacity Building - Through training and extension services, the scheme empowers spice farmers, SHGs, and FPOs with the latest technical know-how, best practices, and crucial market intelligence, improving their overall capabilities.
• Export Promotion - The scheme assists in participating in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and other market linkage programs.
• The scheme aids in export development and promotion by assisting first-time exporters and small businesses in participating in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and market linkage programs, enabling them to showcase Indian spices globally
• Eligible - Exporters with a valid Certificate of Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES), with preference given to first-time applicants and SMEs are Eligible
• Transparency & Accountability - All scheme activities will be geo-tagged. Information on fund availability, application status, and beneficiary lists will be publicly available on the Spices Board's website, ensuring full transparency.
• Cultivating India's Global Spice Leadership - The Spices Board is implementing the SPICED scheme to enhance India's global spice leadership through innovation, quality enhancement, and inclusive development, providing support to stakeholders throughout the application process.

References

1. Business line
2. United News of India