The Delhi high court has recently censured the state government for its failure to place 14 reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) before the legislative assembly. 

• The government is obligated to present these reports before the assembly for discussion. This ensures public funds are utilized effectively and transparently.

About the office of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is a constitutional authority responsible for auditing and reporting on the financial operations of the government at the Union and State levels. 

• Established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution, the CAG plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and financial discipline in governance.

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Genesis of the Institution of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• Colonial Origins: The institution of the CAG in India originated during British rule, evolving from the office of the Accountant General, established in 1858 to audit colonial finances under the British East India Company.
• Pre-Independence Developments: The position of Auditor General of India was formalized under the Government of India Act, 1919, and later expanded under the Government of India Act, 1935, to ensure financial accountability in British India.
• Post-Independence Establishment: After India gained independence, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India was enshrined as a constitutional authority under Article 148 of the Constitution in 1950. Narahari Rao became the first CAG of independent India.
• Significance in the Constitution: The CAG was established as an independent entity to audit the accounts of the Union and States, ensuring financial transparency, and serving as the “guardian of the public purse” in India’s parliamentary democracy.

Key Functions of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• Audit of Government Accounts: Audits the receipts and expenditure of the Union and State governments, including public sector undertakings (PSUs).
• Reporting to the Legislature: Submits audit reports to the President (for Union accounts) or the Governor (for State accounts), which are then tabled in Parliament or State Legislatures.
• Audit of Public Enterprises: Examines the financial performance of government-owned companies.
• Custodian of the Consolidated Fund: Ensures that withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund of India or States are made only with proper legislative authorization.
• Special Audits: Conducts special audits on the request of the President or the Governor, especially in cases of irregularities.

How is CAG in India Different from the CAG in Britain?

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Constitutional Provisions Related to Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• Article 148: Establishes the CAG and defines its independence.
• Article 149: Specifies the duties and powers of the CAG.
• Article 150: Mandates the CAG to prescribe how accounts of the Union and States shall be kept.
• Article 151: Requires CAG reports to be submitted to the President or Governor, who will place them before the legislature.
• Third Schedule of Constitution: It includes the format of the oath that the CAG must take before assuming office. The oath emphasizes allegiance to the Constitution, faithful discharge of duties, and upholding the sovereignty and integrity of India.

Independence of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• Appointed by the President of India.
• Holds office for 6 years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
• Removal is possible only through impeachment, similar to a Supreme Court judge.

Significant Contributions of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• 2G Spectrum Scam: Highlighted irregularities in the allocation of telecom licenses, leading to Supreme Court intervention.
• Coal Block Allocation: Exposed losses due to discretionary coal block allocations.
• Bharatmala Project (2023): Flagged delays and cost overruns in infrastructure development.
• Performance Audit of Ayushman Bharat (2023): Highlighted issues in healthcare delivery under India’s flagship health insurance scheme, including irregularities in beneficiary verification and delayed payments to hospitals.
• Public Distribution System (PDS) Audit: Identified large-scale inefficiencies in the distribution of food grains under the PDS, including diversion and leakage.
• • These recommendations led to digitization of ration cards and better monitoring mechanisms.

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Challenges Faced

• Shrinking Parliamentary Time: The number of days Parliament meets has reduced over decades, leaving less time to debate critical reports like those from the CAG.
  • Example: In the 2023 Monsoon Session, Parliament functioned for just 17 days, limiting discussion on significant issues.
• Politicization of Reports: CAG findings are often dismissed as politically motivated, especially when they highlight irregularities in flagship government schemes.
  • Example: Debates on the CAG’s findings on coal block allocations (2012) became partisan, overshadowing substantive discussions.
• Public Apathy and Limited Awareness: Citizens often remain unaware of the significance of CAG reports, reducing pressure on lawmakers to act on their findings.
• Resource Constraints: The CAG’s limited resources and reliance on outdated methodologies hinder comprehensive audits in emerging areas like cybersecurity and environmental governance.
• Declining Staff Availability:
  • As of 2021-22, the IA&AD had a staff strength of 41,675, a steady decline from the peak of 48,253 in 2013-14. 
  • The number of IA&AS officers employed came down to 553 in 2021-22 from 789 in 2014-15. 
  • The strength of the audit and accounting staff reduced from over 26,000 in 2013-14 to 20,320 in 2021-22. 
• Lack of Follow-Up Mechanisms: Many recommendations from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and CAG reports remain unimplemented due to weak enforcement mechanisms.
  • Data: 60% of CAG recommendations (2017-2021) are yet to see effective follow-up action.
• No ex-ante auditing powers: 
  • Unlike many other countries like Japan, New Zealand, Australia and France, the CAG in India mainly performs the function of ex-post auditing. 

Way Forward

• Mandatory Parliamentary Debates: Establish protocols for mandatory discussion of key CAG reports in Parliament and state legislatures.
  • Example: The United Kingdom’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) ensures parliamentary discussions for every major audit finding.
• Modernization of CAG: Equip the CAG with tools for auditing emerging areas like artificial intelligence, climate finance, and data governance.
  • Example: Canada’s Auditor General uses AI-based tools for auditing government digital systems.
• Enhanced Public Engagement: Make CAG reports more accessible through simplified summaries and outreach via social media and public forums.
  • Example: The Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) publishes easy-to-read summaries to engage citizens.
• Collaboration with Civil Society and Media: Collaborate with think tanks, NGOs, and media to analyze and disseminate CAG findings for greater public awareness and accountability.
  • Example: NITI Aayog
• Strengthening the Public Accounts Committee (PAC): Empower the PAC to enforce accountability by setting strict deadlines for action on audit recommendations.
  • Data: The PAC handled 103 reports in 2022 but faced delays in follow-up implementation.

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Conclusion

CAG reports are essential tools for promoting transparency, accountability, and efficient governance. However, challenges like insufficient debate, lack of follow-up mechanisms, and public apathy hinder their impact. By drawing on global best practices and modernizing India’s audit the government can strengthen democratic accountability and ensure better utilization of public resources. 

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ISRO successfully conducted the Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) to demonstrate in-orbit docking technology, a critical capability for refueling, satellite servicing, and future space station missions.

About Indian Space Sector

• Current Value: India’s space industry is valued at $8 billion, contributing 2% to the global space economy.
• Government Spending: Annual spending on space programs is approximately $2 billion.
• Satellite Launches and Revenue: Since 1999, India has launched 381 satellites for 34 countries, generating $279 million in revenues.
• Global Position: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the sixth-largest national space agency in the world.
• Future Potential: According to IN-SPACe, India’s space economy could grow to ₹35,200 crore ($44 billion) by 2033, capturing 8% of the global share.

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Recent Achievements of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)

• Chandrayaan-3 Mission: ISRO successfully landed the Vikram Lander near the Moon’s south pole, making India the first country to achieve this feat. 
  • The mission also deployed the Pragyan rover, which conducted on-site experiments, including the detection of sulfur and other elements.
• ISRO’s Space Farming Trial: ISRO tested the growth of lobia (cowpea) seeds in space as part of its bio-regenerative life support system experiments, paving the way for sustainable food production in space missions.
• Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1, was launched to study the Sun’s atmosphere, including the corona, solar winds, and magnetic storms. It marked a significant step toward space-based solar research.
• XPoSat: It is the second such space-based observatory after NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IPEX), launched in 2021. The two instruments on board XPoSat, called XSPECT and POLIX, began operating after launch.
• PSLV-C57/Orbital Launch of Singapore’s DS-SAR Satellite: The PSLV-C57 mission launched the DS-SAR satellite and six co-passenger satellites for Singapore, reaffirming ISRO’s reputation for cost-effective commercial satellite launches.
• Gaganyaan Preparations: ISRO completed critical tests for the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight Programme, including a crew escape system test. The mission is scheduled for 2025, aiming to make India the fourth country to send humans into space.
• LVM3-M3 OneWeb India-2 Mission: ISRO launched 36 OneWeb satellites into Low Earth Orbit, completing OneWeb’s first-generation global satellite constellation. This further solidified ISRO’s position in the global satellite launch market.

Role of Private Sector in Space

• Satellite Manufacturing and Launches: Skyroot’s Vikram-S became the first privately built rocket launched in India in November 2022.
• Space-Based Applications: Startups like Pixxel are using satellites for earth imaging and data analytics, enabling services in agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.
• Collaboration with ISRO: L&T and HAL partnered with ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission.
• Driving Innovation: Agnikul Cosmos is working on 3D-printed rocket engines to revolutionize launch systems.

Potential of India’s Space Sector

• Expanding Market Size: The global space economy is estimated to reach $1 trillion by 2040, and India’s share, currently at just 2%, has significant growth potential.
• Satellite Launch Services: PSLV has launched over 400 foreign satellites from 36 countries, earning ISRO substantial revenue.
  • Over 10 years, ISRO has had 34 launches, successfully sending up 121 satellites, 75 of them foreign: 18 (24%) were from the USA, 11 (15%) Canadian, 8 (11%) each from Singapore and Germany, and 6 (8%) from the UK.
• Commercial Space Ventures: With the advent of private players like Skyroot Aerospace and Pixxel, India is diversifying into small satellite launches, space-based imaging, and data analytics.
• Focus on Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-3’s success as the first mission to soft-land near the lunar south pole.
• Global Partnerships: ISRO-NASA’s NISAR satellite will study climate change and natural disasters.

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Challenges Faced by the Indian Space Sector

• Budget Constraints: Despite global recognition, ISRO operates on a relatively small budget compared to agencies like NASA.
  • Example: NASA’s 2023 budget was $25 billion, while ISRO’s was approximately $1.6 billion.
• Technological Gaps: Limited expertise in heavy-lift rockets and advanced reusable technologies delays ambitious missions.
• Space Debris Management: Increasing satellite launches add to space debris, posing long-term challenges for orbital sustainability.
• Brain Drain: Many top scientists seek better opportunities abroad due to limited funding and incentives in India.
• Geopolitical Constraints: Global collaborations face challenges due to international sanctions and technology denial regimes like the MTCR (Missile Technology Control Regime).

Government Initiatives for Space and ISRO

• Formation of IN-SPACe: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) facilitates private sector participation in space activities, ensuring policy and regulatory support.
• Indian Space Policy 2023: The policy defines roles for ISRO, IN-SPACe, and private players, focusing on commercialization and R&D, with ISRO focusing on strategic missions.
• Budget Allocations: India allocated about Rs. 12000 crore to the Department of Space in Budget 2023-24
• Launch of NSIL (NewSpace India Limited): NSIL commercializes ISRO’s technologies and satellite launches, expanding India’s footprint in the global space economy.
• Focus on Education and Innovation: Programs like Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA) and collaboration with IITs and IISc promote space education and R&D in India.

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Way Forward for Indian Space Sector

• Increased Budget Allocation: Prioritize space research funding to match the global average of space program investments.
• Collaborative Innovation: Partner with private players under the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) to enhance technological capabilities.
• Indigenous Innovation: Invest in heavy-lift rocket technologies like the GSLV Mk-III and advanced propulsion systems.
• Focus on Human Resources: Introduce attractive incentives, global exposure, and skill-building programs to retain top talent.
  • Example: Skill India Mission (for space activities)
• Space Debris Mitigation: Develop space debris mitigation technologies like satellite de-orbiting systems and participate in global efforts for orbital sustainability.

Conclusion

ISRO’s recent achievements, including Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, SPADEX, and space farming trials, showcase India’s growing capability in space exploration. By addressing challenges through increased funding, technological innovation, and global collaboration, ISRO can further enhance its contribution to scientific discovery, economic growth, and global sustainability.

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A transient “ghost island” which was born from a mud volcano eruption in the Caspian Sea has been reported in the news. This island emerged in early 2023 and receded into the sea by the end of 2024.

About Ghost Island

A “ghost island” refers to a temporary landmass that appears and disappears due to natural geological or environmental phenomena, such as mud volcano eruptions, sediment accumulation, or tidal and erosion processes.

• In Caspian Sea, the “ghost island” was created by the eruption of the Kumani Bank mud volcano. 
• The island emerged in early 2023, and quickly eroded away by the end of 2024.

About Mud Volcano

A geological phenomenon where gases, liquids, and sediments erupt to the surface, creating temporary landforms. Often found in tectonic zones, they can expel methane and mud, sometimes causing fiery eruptions. They often form in tectonically active regions with high subsurface pressures.

• Example: Azerbaijan, home to over 300 mud volcanoes, including the Kumani Bank.
• Hazards: Flammable gas emissions, potential for large sediment expulsion, and even fiery eruptions.

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The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles were driven by rare meteorological conditions known as ‘hydroclimate whiplash’ and exacerbated by climate change and human activities.

About Hydroclimate Whiplash

• Definition: Refers to rapid alternation between extremely wet and dangerously dry weather conditions in a region.
• Contributing Mechanism: 
  • As the atmosphere warms, the amount of water vapor it can hold increases, and the deficit of water vapor in the atmosphere also rises exponentially.
  • Consequently, a warmer atmosphere can retain significantly more water for longer periods before releasing it as precipitation.
  • This relationship between global warming and the atmosphere results in extended dry spells followed by more intense rainfall when precipitation finally occurs.

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Impacts of Hydroclimate Whiplash

• Increased Droughts and Floods: Prolonged extremes strain ecosystems and water availability.
• Wildfire Fuel: Wet periods encourage vegetation growth, which dries out during subsequent droughts, creating fuel for wildfires.
• Human Health Risks:
  • Wildfire smoke exacerbates respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Flooding promotes waterborne illnesses like cholera and leptospirosis.
• Global Trends: Hydroclimate whiplash events have increased by 31–66% in three-month periods (sub-seasonal) and 8–31% in 12-month periods (inter-annual) since the mid-20th century.

Other Causes of Wildfires in California

• Santa Ana Winds: High-pressure winds from the Great Basin compress and heat as they descend, reducing humidity and drying vegetation.
• Anthropogenic Activities: Illegal campfires, fireworks, and urban encroachment into forested areas increase fire risks.
• Climate Change: Rising global temperatures lead to warmer springs and summers, intensifying dry seasons and vegetation stress.

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Recently, the Commerce Ministry has requested the Finance Ministry to extend the ₹3,000 crore Interest Equalisation Scheme, prioritizing MSMEs involved in exports.

About Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES)

• Introduction:
  • Launched in 2015 to provide financial support to exporters through subsidized export credit.
  • Offers pre- and post-shipment export credit to exporters in Indian rupees.
  • Initially valid for five years, the scheme has been extended multiple times.
• Implementing Agency:
  • Implemented by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through Public and Non-Public Sector banks that provide pre- and post-shipment credit to exporters.
  • Jointly monitored by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the RBI through a consultative mechanism.

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• Coverage:
  • Initially covered non-MSME exporters in 410 identified tariff lines.
  • Extended to all exporters from the MSME sector.
• Subsidy Rate:
  • 2% interest equalization for merchant and manufacturer exporters of 410 identified tariff lines.
  • 3% interest equalization for all MSME manufacturer exporters.
• Mechanism:
  • Export credit is provided by banks at a subsidized interest rate.
  • The government compensates banks for the reduced interest charged to beneficiaries.
  • Banks charging an average rate above Repo + 4% are excluded from the scheme.

What is MSME?

• Definition: MSME stands for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, which are businesses involved in producing, processing, and preserving goods and commodities.
• Classification: Classified based on investment in plant and machinery or equipment and annual turnover.

Classification of MSMEs as per Indian Government

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Need for Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) for MSMEs

• Support Export Growth: Helps MSMEs access affordable credit, ensuring competitiveness in global markets.
• High Contribution to Exports: MSMEs contribute approximately 45% to India’s total exports, highlighting the importance of the sector.
• Inflation and Logistics Challenges: Rising inflation and logistical issues, such as the Red Sea crisis, have increased export costs.
• Longer Credit Durations: Buyers are demanding extended credit periods (120–150 days), raising the cost of financing.
• Liquidity Challenges: High inflation and slower inventory off-take create financial stress for MSMEs.
• Wafer-Thin Margins: Interest subvention of 3% enables MSMEs to remain competitive in price-sensitive markets.
• Addressing High Credit Costs: IES mitigates the impact of India’s relatively higher credit costs compared to global competitors.

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the list of Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the Upper Layer (UL) under Scale Based Regulation (SBR) for the year 2024-25

Highlights of Recent RBI Release

The NBFC Upper Layer (UL) list for 2024-25 includes Tata Sons Private Ltd, Bajaj Finance Ltd, LIC Housing Finance Ltd, and Aditya Birla Finance Ltd, among others.

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About NBFC Regulation

• Regulatory Powers: RBI regulates NBFCs under the RBI Act, 1934, with powers to register, inspect, and supervise NBFCs meeting the 50-50 principal business criteria.
• 50-50 Principal Business Criteria: Financial activity constitutes over 50% of total assets and gross income.
• Requirements for NBFC Registration
• • Must be a company registered under Section 3 of the Companies Act, 1956.
  • Minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of ₹200 lakh.

About Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) Framework

• The Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) framework, introduced by the Reserve Bank of India  in 2021, is a regulatory framework designed to classify Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) based on their asset size and scoring criteria.
• The aim is to strengthen risk management, apply proportional regulation, and address systemic risks in the NBFC sector.
• Objectives of the SBR Framework
  • Mitigation of Systemic Risks: To reduce the impact of financial contagion and safeguard the overall financial ecosystem.
  • Proportional Regulation: To ensure that regulatory intensity corresponds to the scale and complexity of NBFC operations.
  • Enhanced Risk Management: To improve the operational resilience and governance standards of NBFCs.
• Categorization of NBFCs
  • Base Layer (NBFC-BL): Includes smaller NBFCs with limited risk to the system.
  • Middle Layer (NBFC-ML): Comprises larger entities with moderate systemic importance.
  • Upper Layer (NBFC-UL): High-risk NBFCs based on scoring methodology and systemic importance.
  • Top Layer (NBFC-TL): Rarely occupied, for entities posing exceptional risks.
• Features of Enhanced Regulations
  • NBFC-ULs are subjected to stricter regulatory requirements for at least five years.
  • This includes increased compliance, monitoring, and governance norms

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Difference Between Banks and NBFCs

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Recent research challenges the conventional understanding that iron deficiency is the primary cause of anaemia in India, suggesting a need for diversified policy interventions to address the issue effectively.

About Anaemia

Anaemia is a medical condition where the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or the haemoglobin levels in the blood are below normal, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the body’s tissues.

• Key Symptoms of Anaemia: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
• Types of Anaemia:
  • Iron-Deficiency Anaemia: Caused by insufficient iron levels needed to produce haemoglobin.
    • Commonly due to poor diet, blood loss, or absorption issues.
  • Vitamin-Deficiency Anaemia: Caused by a lack of Vitamin B12 or folate, essential for RBC production.
  • Aplastic Anaemia: Occurs when the bone marrow fails to produce enough RBCs.
  • Sickle Cell Anaemia: A genetic condition where RBCs are abnormally shaped, leading to blockages and reduced oxygen flow.
  • Hemolytic Anaemia: Results from the premature destruction of RBCs.
  • Thalassemia: A genetic disorder causing abnormal haemoglobin production.
  • Anaemia of Chronic Disease: Associated with long-term illnesses like cancer or kidney disease.

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Status of Anaemia in India

• Prevalence Trends:
  • Anaemia prevalence among women of reproductive age increased from 53.2% (NFHS-4) to 57.2% (NFHS-5).
  • In children, the prevalence rose from 58.6% to 67.1% during the same period.
  • Recent study findings show lower anaemia prevalence compared to NFHS data:
    • Women (15–49 years): 41.1% (study) vs. 60.8% (NFHS-5).
    • Adolescent girls (15–19 years): 44.3% vs. 62.6%.
    • Adolescent boys: 24.3% vs. 31.8%.
• Iron Deficiency: Only 9% of anaemia cases were due to iron deficiency, while 22% were from unknown causes.
• Geographic Variation: States like Assam reported high anaemia prevalence (50%-60%) but low iron deficiency (18%).

Factors Contributing to Rising Anaemia

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiency in Vitamin B12, folate, and other erythropoietic nutrients.
  • Erythropoietic nutrients are essential nutrients that support red blood cell production by aiding hemoglobin synthesis and erythropoiesis.
• Environmental Factors: Air pollution and unhygienic environments exacerbate anaemia prevalence.
• Blood Collection Methods: Capillary blood samples (used in NFHS) may overestimate anaemia prevalence due to contamination with body fluids.
• Dietary Patterns: Inadequate dietary diversity limits nutrient absorption.

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Government Initiatives to Tackle Anaemia

• Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) Strategy (2018): Reduce anaemia prevalence across six age groups through the 6x6x6 strategy, which includes six interventions, six beneficiary groups, and six institutional mechanisms.
• National Deworming Day (NDD) (2015): Biannual mass deworming for children and adolescents (1–19 years) to reduce worm infestations that contribute to anaemia.
• National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (2023):To eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health problem by 2047, focusing on screening, diagnosis, and management in tribal areas.
• Strengthening Supply Chains for IFA Supplements :To ensure uninterrupted availability of iron and folic acid supplements across health centers.
• National Centre of Excellence and Advanced Research on Anaemia Control (NCEAR-A) (2018): To enhance capacity building and develop training toolkits for healthcare providers.

Challenges in Addressing Anaemia

• Single-Focus Interventions: Policies focused primarily on iron supplementation are insufficient to address multifactorial anemia.
• Diet Accessibility: High-quality, nutrient-rich foods remain unaffordable for a significant portion of the population.
• Policy Implementation: Lack of integration between nutrition-focused interventions and broader public health initiatives.
• Data Collection: Reliance on less accurate blood collection methods (capillary samples) skews prevalence estimates.

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Way Forward

• Diversified Nutritional Interventions: Promote balanced diets with fruits, milk, and vegetables to improve nutrient absorption.
• Improved Data Collection: Transition to venous blood draws as recommended by WHO for accurate anaemia estimation.
• Enhanced Public Health Initiatives: Expand Anaemia Mukt Bharat with focus on dietary diversity and behavior change communication.
• Economic Accessibility: Subsidize nutrient-dense foods to ensure wider population access.
• Holistic Interventions: Combine iron supplementation with other measures like deworming, fortification of staples, and point-of-care treatment.

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The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended capping internet tariffs for Wi-Fi service providers under the PM-WANI scheme at twice the retail broadband rate.

About PM-WANI Scheme

• Launch Year: Launched in 2020 by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Aim: To enhance the proliferation of public Wi-Fi hotspots and create robust digital communication infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
• Promotes ease of doing business by allowing local businesses to become Wi-Fi providers without licenses or fees.

PM-WANI Ecosystem Components

• Public Data Office (PDO): PDOs are usually housewives, tea sellers, photocopy shop owners and roadside food stalls who offer cheap data vouchers at Rs 5 to Rs 100.
  • An average PDO makes Rs 700-1000 per month and will be able to sustain the business at the new ceiling price.
    • They set up Wi-Fi hotspots to provide internet access.
    • No license fee is required from DoT for operation.
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): Provides authorization, accounting services, and user interfaces for purchasing data plans and monitoring usage.
• App Provider: Develops applications to help users locate and connect to nearby PM-WANI hotspots for seamless internet access.
• Central Registry:
  • Managed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT).
  • Maintains records of App Providers, PDOs, and PDOAs.

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Accessing PM-WANI Internet

• Download a relevant app to view available networks.
• Select a connection from the list and make a payment to access the internet.
• The user can access the network until their balance is exhausted.

Advantages of Capping Internet Tariffs for PM-WANI Scheme

• Affordable Connectivity: Capping broadband costs at twice the retail broadband rate allows Public Data Offices (PDOs) to access connectivity at lower rates (₹500–₹600/month).
• Boosts PDO Viability: Reduces dependency on expensive leased line connections (40–80 times costlier), improving profitability for small-scale PDO operators.
• Encourages Public Participation: Attracts more housewives, tea sellers, and small businesses to become PDOs by offering affordable operational costs.
• Rural Connectivity Expansion: Helps bridge the digital divide by promoting the establishment of affordable public Wi-Fi in underserved rural areas.
• Social and Economic Impact: Enhances digital access for education, work, and communication at a minimal cost for the lower-income population.

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Recently, the Lokpal, India’s first anti-corruption ombudsman, revealed data showcasing its limited productivity since its establishment.

About Lokpal

• The Lokpal is a national-level anti-corruption institution established to investigate and prosecute corruption cases involving public officials. 
• It serves as an independent body to ensure accountability among ministers and government employees.
• Establishment: The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, passed in 2013, came into force in 2014. 
• However, the first Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh, was appointed only in 2019 after a delay of nearly five years. 
  • The Act mandates the establishment of Lokayuktas at the state level.
• Historical Background : Its establishment follows recommendations from various committees and commissions, such as the First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966) and the 2nd ARC (2005).

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Composition of Lokpal

• Lokpal consists of a chairperson and up to eight members, with at least 50% being judicial members.
• The members must include representatives from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, minorities, and women.
• The selection committee comprises the Prime Minister (Chairperson), Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition, Chief Justice of India or a nominated judge, and an eminent jurist.

Low Productivity of Lokpal

• Limited Cases Handled:
  • Only 24 investigations ordered and six prosecution sanctions granted since its establishment.
  • Over 90% of complaints rejected due to incorrect format or lack of compliance with procedural requirements.
• Complaints Received:
  • From April to December 2024, 226 complaints were registered.
  • 3% complaints were against the Prime Minister or Union Ministers, 21% against Group A-D central government officials, and 41% against “Others,” including state officials.

Factors for Low Productivity of Lokpal

• Delayed Appointment: First Lokpal was appointed five years after the Act’s implementation.
• Dependency on Other Agencies: Investigations rely on the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to the absence of internal inquiry mechanisms.
• Structural Limitations: Absence of financial and administrative independence reduces its functional efficacy.
  • Heavy emphasis on the format of complaints rather than content leads to high rejection rates.
• Legislative Challenges: Lack of power to initiate investigations independently against public servants.
  • Limitations such as a 7-year period to file complaints and severe penalties for false complaints deter reporting.
• Insufficient Coordination: Weak collaboration with state Lokayuktas and other decentralized anti-corruption bodies.

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Way Forward

• Enhance Functional Autonomy: Ensure financial, administrative, and operational independence of Lokpal to reduce reliance on other agencies.
• Streamline Complaint Procedures: Simplify the complaint submission process to focus on content rather than format.
• Fill Vacancies: Expedite the appointment of key personnel such as the Director of Inquiry and Director of Prosecution.
• Strengthen State Coordination: Align state Lokayukta Acts with the Lokpal Act to ensure consistent anti-corruption mechanisms across the country.
• Public Awareness: Conduct campaigns to educate citizens about the Lokpal’s role and procedures to encourage participation.
• Technological Integration: Leverage digital tools for better complaint tracking, investigation monitoring, and operational transparency.

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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has unveiled the Sanchar Saathi mobile app designed to streamline the reporting of suspected fraudulent communications. 

About Sanchar Saathi Mobile App

• The Sanchar Saathi Mobile App is a user-friendly platform designed to fortify telecom security and empower citizens. 
• It is launched by the Department of Telecom under the Ministry of Communications. 
• It is available for both Android and iOS platforms.
• It provides users with critical tools to secure their telecom resources and combat telecom frauds.

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Key Features

• Chakshu – Reporting Suspected Fraud Communications (SFC): Users can report suspected calls and SMS using app and directly from mobile phone logs.
• Know Mobile Connections in Your Name: Citizens can identify and manage all mobile connections issued in their name, ensuring no unauthorized usage.
• Blocking Your Lost/ Stolen Mobile Handset: Lost or stolen mobile devices can be swiftly blocked, traced and recovered.
• Know Mobile Handset Genuineness: The app offers an easy way to verify the authenticity of mobile handsets, ensuring users purchase genuine devices.

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A new method to manage ecological risks from DDT by binding it with biochar has been developed by the researchers of Sweden’s Chalmers University of Technology.

About the Research

• It is a three-year study conducted on a 23-hectare DDT-contaminated former tree nursery in southern Sweden by mixing Biochar into the contaminated soil.
• Finding:
  • Uptake of DDT by earthworms in the soil was found to have been halved. 
  • Biochar is found to bind DDT efficiently, so that it is not taken up by soil organisms.
• Significance:
  • Enable the cultivation of certain crops on degraded and unusable land due to the environmental risks.
  • Improved Soil Health: Biochar is an environmentally friendly product and binds contaminants and can improve soil health when added to soil improving the soil health.
  • Cost Effective Solution: Biochar is economical to produce, therefore is a cost effective solution for rehabilitating degraded soil.
  • Climate Change Mitigation: Mixing biochar is also useful for climate change mitigation since it can contribute to long-term storage of carbon in the soil.

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About Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)

• DDT is a toxic, man-made, hazardous chemical which is also a persistent organic pollutant (POPs), first synthesized in 1874.
• Insecticidal Properties: DDT’s insecticidal properties were discovered in 1939 to control vector borne diseases and used to control insects in crops and livestock production, institutions, homes and gardens.
• Impacts: 
  • Bioaccumulation: DDT bioaccumulates in fatty tissues of humans and animals with high intake associated with developmental and reproductive abnormalities.
  • Carcinogenic: DDT is classified as ‘probably carcinogenic’ to humans and can suppress the immune system and disrupt sex hormones
  • Omnipresent: DDT being a POP and its widespread use is stable and persistent in the environment with its residues found everywhere such as the Artic, the Antarctic, open oceans, and high mountain areas.
  • Animal health: DDT causes eggshell thinning in birds and is also acutely toxic to fish and marine invertebrates.
  • Endocrine Disruptor: DDT is highly stable and can accumulate in adipose tissue, so it can be found in the tissues of all living organisms. 
  • Soil Health: DDT was widely used as a pesticide in agriculture and resulted in devastating effects on soil health making it infertile.
    • In 1962, Rachel Carson published “The Silent Spring” documenting the devastating effect of pesticides on the natural world, focusing on DDT.
• DDT in India: 
  • India banned the agricultural use of DDT by 1972.
  • Usage: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is the only consumer of DDT 
    • It is used to control vector borne diseases by spraying DDT over walls in malaria-infected houses and buildings in rural and urban areas.
  • Nodal Ministry:  Department of Chemicals, Petrochemical and Fertilizers (DCP) being the nodal committee overseeing the production and supply of DDT.
    • India is the sole producer of DDT globally since 2008.
  • Phase Out: In 2014, India got the first extension for 10 years to phase out DDT by 2024 under the Stockholm Convention. However, it missed the deadline
    • The Convention had outlawed the production and use of DDT and other toxic chemicals and limited it to mosquito control.
  • Exports: India exports the chemical to Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

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The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and the National Housing Bank (NHB) have signed an MoU as part of efforts in effective implementation of requirements of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and Rules.

About the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

• The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is a law in India that was enacted in 2002 to prevent money laundering under Article 253.
  • It also provides for the confiscation of property that is derived from money laundering. 
• Objective: PMLA empowers implementation of the international conventions and to give effect to the Recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on addressing the problem of money laundering. 
• Authority: The Director of the FIU-IND and the Director (Enforcement) have the power to enforce the PMLA.
• Prescribed Obligation: The Act obligates banking companies, financial institutions and intermediaries to verify and maintain records of the identity of all its clients and all transactions.
• Special Courts: Under PMLA, Special Courts are used to try the offenses punishable under PMLA and offenses with which the accused may, under the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973, be charged at the same trial. 
• Bail Provision: Under Section 45 of the PMLA, bail conditions under the The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has been specified,
  • The accused must prove that there is no prima facie case against them 
  • The accused must prove that they are unlikely to commit another offense while on bail 
  • The public prosecutor must be given an opportunity to oppose the bail application 
  • The court must be satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing the accused is not guilty

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