1. INS Vikrant: India’s Indigenous Aircraft Carrier – Defence & Security
Why in News?
The Indian Navy has deployed INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously designed and constructed aircraft carrier, to the Arabian Sea amid rising tensions with Pakistan, following recent airspace violations.
Key Highlights of INS Vikrant
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Commissioned | 2022 |
| Indigenous Content | ~76% |
| Length & Width | 262 metres long, 62 metres wide |
| Decks | 14 decks (comparable to a 14-storey building) |
| Displacement | 43,000 tonnes |
| Personnel Capacity | Over 1,500 personnel |
| Power & Speed | 4 gas turbines (88 MW), max speed: 28 knots (~52 km/hr) |
| Endurance | 45 days autonomous operation, 8,600 nautical miles (~13,890 km) |
| Aircraft Capacity | 30 aircraft (MIG-29K, Kamov-31, MH-60R, ALH, LCA Navy) |
| Aircraft Launch System | STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery), includes ski-jump and arrestor wires. |
Strategic and National Significance
- Strategic Autonomy: India joins a select group (U.S., UK, France, China, Russia) capable of designing and building aircraft carriers.
- Indigenization Boost: 76% indigenous components bolster Atmanirbhar Bharat and promote local defense manufacturing.
- Geopolitical Projection: Strengthens India’s maritime posture, especially in Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and during regional tensions.
- Force Multiplier: Enhances blue water navy capabilities, supporting force projection, disaster relief, and rapid response missions.
Summary
- INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, commissioned in 2022, built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd.
- It enhances India’s maritime strength and reflects significant progress in defense indigenization (76%).
- Recently deployed in the Arabian Sea amid tensions with Pakistan, it plays a crucial role in projecting India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Uses STOBAR technology for aircraft operations and hosts both imported and indigenous aircraft including MIG-29K, ALH, and LCA (Navy).
- Marks India’s entry into a select league of countries capable of designing and constructing aircraft carriers independently.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. INS Vikrant, recently in news, is significant because:
A) It is India’s first nuclear-powered submarine
B) It is the first aircraft carrier imported from France
C) It is the first indigenously built aircraft carrier by India
D) It is India’s first stealth destroyer
Answer: C)
2. The STOBAR system used in INS Vikrant is primarily related to:
A) Underwater navigation
B) Aircraft launch and recovery on carrier decks
C) Radar surveillance
D) Missile defense systems
Answer: B)
3. INS Vikrant was built by which of the following Indian shipyards?
A) Garden Reach Shipbuilders
B) Cochin Shipyard Limited
C) Mazagon Dock Limited
D) Hindustan Shipyard
Answer: B)
Mains
1. “The commissioning of INS Vikrant marks a milestone in India’s defense indigenization and maritime strategy.” Discuss the strategic, technological, and geopolitical significance of INS Vikrant in the context of India’s national security.
2. Examine the role of indigenously built defense platforms like INS Vikrant in promoting India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. How does it contribute to India’s defense diplomacy and regional maritime balance?
2. ‘Arnala’: India’s First ASW Shallow Water Craft – Defence & Security
Why in News?
India has taken delivery of ‘Arnala’, its first indigenously developed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), significantly enhancing its maritime security capabilities in littoral and coastal zones.
Key Features and Functions of INS Arnala
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | ASW Shallow Water Craft |
| Built by | GRSE, Kolkata (design); L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli (construction) |
| Partnership Model | Public-Private Partnership (PPP) |
| Named After | Arnala Fort (Maharashtra) – a symbol of India’s maritime heritage |
| Length | 77 meters |
| Propulsion System | Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion (first Indian warship of this scale using this system) |
| Classification | Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) |
| Indigenous Content | 80%+ |
| Primary Roles | – Coastal ASW – Underwater surveillance – Low Intensity Maritime Ops – Search and Rescue – Mine-laying |
Strategic Importance
- Maritime Security in Shallow Waters: Crucial for detecting and neutralizing submarines operating close to shore, particularly in chokepoints and near critical infrastructure.
- Technological Indigenization: Adherence to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards and 80% indigenous parts promote self-reliance in naval defense.
- Defense Industrial Ecosystem: Demonstrates effective synergy between public and private players in defense manufacturing.
- Force Multiplication in Littorals: Supports naval operations in low-intensity conflict zones, coastal defense, and grey zone warfare.
Summary
- ‘Arnala’ is the first of eight indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC).
- Built through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata and L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli.
- Enhances India’s coastal surveillance and shallow-water ASW capability.
- Powered by Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion, the longest Indian warship with such a system.
- Performs multiple roles: anti-submarine warfare, mine laying, search & rescue, and maritime patrol.
- Over 80% indigenous components, supporting Aatmanirbhar Bharat and indigenous defense manufacturing.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following correctly describes the INS Arnala, recently in news?
A) India’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
B) Anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft
C) Stealth frigate with long-range missile systems
D) Indian Coast Guard’s new offshore patrol vessel
Answer: B
2. The INS Arnala is powered by which propulsion technology?
A) Gas turbine with electric hybrid
B) Nuclear propulsion
C) Diesel Engine-Waterjet system
D) Biofuel-assisted combustion system
Answer: C
3. INS Arnala was developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between:
A) DRDO and Tata Advanced Systems
B) BHEL and Hindustan Shipyard
C) GRSE and L&T Shipyard
D) HAL and Cochin Shipyard
Answer: C
Mains
1. “The induction of ASW Shallow Water Crafts like ‘Arnala’ reflects India’s growing emphasis on coastal security and indigenous defense capability.” Discuss in the context of India’s maritime security strategy.
2. Evaluate the significance of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in defense manufacturing with reference to the development and delivery of INS Arnala.
3. HAROP Drones: Loitering Munitions Used in ‘Operation Sindoor’ – Defence & Security
Why in News?
Indian armed forces employed HAROP drones during Operation Sindoor to carry out precision strikes on Pakistani air defense systems, highlighting their evolving role in India’s counterforce strategies.
Key Features of HAROP Drones
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) – MBT Missiles Division |
| Type | Loitering munition (Kamikaze drone) |
| Role | Reconnaissance + Targeted attack (SEAD – Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) |
| Payload | 16 kg high-explosive warhead |
| Flight Endurance | Over 6 hours (can hover up to 9 hours) |
| Wingspan / Length | 3 meters / 2.5 meters |
| Max Speed | 417 km/h |
| Range | 200 km operational radius |
| Service Ceiling | 15,000 feet |
| Navigation/Targeting | Electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) seekers |
| Accuracy | CEP (Circular Error Probable) < 1 meter |
| Control Mode | Man-in-the-loop with abort capability |
| Combat Environment | Effective in GPS-denied and electronically contested zones |
Strategic Significance
- Modern Warfare Adaptation: HAROP drones represent a shift towards autonomous precision strike platforms in asymmetric warfare.
- Air Defense Suppression: Key tool in Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD)—neutralizes radars, SAMs, and command centers.
- Ethical Strike Capabilities: The man-in-the-loop control ensures human intervention before the strike, reducing collateral damage.
- Force Multiplier: Offers real-time surveillance and instant attack ability, ideal for border conflicts and limited-engagement scenarios.
Summary
HAROP drones are Israeli-origin loitering munitions used for both reconnaissance and direct attack.
- Recently used by Indian forces in ‘Operation Sindoor’ to neutralize enemy air defense systems inside Pakistan.
- Capable of hovering for hours, autonomously identifying and striking high-value static or mobile targets with pinpoint accuracy.
- Designed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and widely used for surgical strikes in contested or sensitive conflict zones.
- Features include electro-optical/infrared targeting, GPS-jamming resistance, and a man-in-the-loop override for ethical oversight.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following best describes the HAROP drone recently in news?
A) Long-range surveillance UAV
B) Hypersonic cruise missile
C) Loitering munition with precision strike capability
D) Maritime patrol drone used by the Indian Navy
Answer: C
2. The HAROP drone, used by Indian forces, was developed by:
A) Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
B) Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
C) Elbit Systems
D) Northrop Grumman
Answer: B
3. Which of the following is not a feature of the HAROP drone?
A) Electro-optical tracking system
B) Cruise missile engine
C) Man-in-the-loop control mode
D) Abort capability mid-flight
Answer: B
Mains
1. “Loitering munitions like the HAROP drone represent the future of battlefield precision and autonomous warfare.” Discuss their significance in the context of India’s defense modernization and ethical warfare requirements.
2. Evaluate the strategic role of loitering munitions in border skirmishes and limited conflicts. How do they influence traditional air power doctrines?
4. Working of Air Defence Systems – Defence & Security
Why in News?
India’s armed forces successfully intercepted coordinated drone and missile strikes from Pakistan on May 8, using advanced air defense systems and HAROP drones in response operations. This highlights India’s multi-layered air defense readiness and the strategic importance of maintaining aerial sovereignty.
Understanding Air Defence Systems
Objective:
To detect, track, intercept, and neutralize aerial threats (enemy aircraft, drones, cruise and ballistic missiles).
Key Components of Air Defence Systems
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Radars | Detect and track incoming aerial objects using electromagnetic waves |
| Control Centres (C3) | Command, Control & Communication systems for real-time response decisions |
| Interceptor Aircraft | Engage enemy aircraft in air combat (e.g., MiG-29, Su-30MKI, Rafale) |
| Missile Systems (SAMs) | Surface-to-Air Missiles to intercept threats mid-air |
| Electronic Warfare | Jam or deceive enemy targeting, communication, and radar systems |
| Integrated Counter-UAS | A specialized grid to neutralize drone swarms and UAV threats |
Types of Air Defence Weapons
1. Interceptor Fighter Jets
- Scrambled to engage aerial targets at high speed.
- Indian examples: MiG-21 Bison, Su-30MKI, HAL Tejas, Rafale
2. Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs)
| Type | Examples | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Range SAMs | S-400 Triumf | 400 km |
| Medium-Range SAMs | Barak-8, Akash | 70–100 km |
| Short-Range/MANPADS | Igla, QRSAM | <10 km |
3. Electronic Warfare (EW) Tools
- Jam enemy radars, misguide missiles, spoof GPS.
- Includes signal intelligence, radar jamming, deception tools.
India’s Key Air Defence Systems
| System | Origin | Role |
|---|---|---|
| S-400 Triumf | Russia | Long-range interception; deployed on Northern border |
| Barak-8 MRSAM | India-Israel | Medium-range defense against aircraft and missiles |
| Akash | Indigenous | All-weather medium-range SAM |
| Pechora (S-125) | Russia (legacy system) | Still operational for short-range defense |
| HAROP Drones | Israel | Loitering munition for SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) |
Recent Operational Deployment
- On May 8, India deployed:
- Integrated Counter-UAS Grid
- HAROP loitering munitions
- SAMs and interceptors
- Successfully neutralized attacks on 15 Indian military bases.
Summary
India recently countered a coordinated aerial threat from Pakistan targeting multiple military bases and neutralized an air defence system in Lahore.
- The Indian response involved integrated air defence systems, interceptors, and loitering munitions like HAROP drones.
- Air defence systems form the backbone of aerial threat neutralization, combining radar detection, surface-to-air missiles, electronic warfare, and fighter interceptors.
- Systems like S-400, Barak-8, and Akash represent India’s layered defense shield against enemy aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles.
- The event emphasized the critical role of Integrated Counter-UAS Grids and modern EW tools in 21st-century warfare.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following best describes the role of HAROP drones in air defense operations?
A) Missile decoy drones
B) Kamikaze drones used for radar suppression
C) Long-range surveillance UAVs
D) Stealth drones for nuclear delivery
Answer: B
2. The Indian air defence system S-400 Triumf has been procured from:
A) Israel
B) France
C) Russia
D) USA
Answer: C
3. Which of the following is not a component of an integrated air defence system?
A) Ground-penetrating radar
B) Surface-to-air missiles
C) Interceptor aircraft
D) Electronic warfare tools
Answer: A
Mains
1. “Integrated Air Defence Systems (IADS) are central to modern national security strategies.” Discuss the components, functioning, and relevance of such systems in India’s defense preparedness.
2. Evaluate India’s air defense capabilities in light of recent engagements along its western borders. How do systems like the S-400 and HAROP reflect a shift in India’s aerial warfare doctrine?
5. India at UNFF20: Global Forest Governance and National Initiatives – Environment
Why in News?
India played a prominent role in the 20th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20), emphasizing its leadership in sustainable forestry, global biodiversity conservation, and environmental accounting frameworks.
About the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) |
| Mandate | Promote global forest policy and sustainable forest management (SFM) |
| Strategic Plan | United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (2017–2030) |
| Goals | Reverse forest loss, enhance benefits of forests, mobilize resources |
🇮🇳 India’s Key Contributions at UNFF20
National Achievements in Forest Conservation
- Forest Cover: Now ~17% of geographical area (as per India State of Forest Report).
- Afforestation: Over 1.55 lakh hectares covered.
- Mangrove Cover: 86% increase in the last decade.
- Green India Mission: 4 billion seedlings planted.
- Aravalli Green Wall Project: For desertification reversal and land restoration.
- Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Campaign: A people-centric movement promoting tree plantation.
International Big Cat Alliance
- Proposed by India, open to UN member states.
- Focus on protecting seven big cat species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma.
- Supports capacity-building, research, and conservation collaboration.
Tools and Methodologies Used
- System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA): Integrates environmental data with economic indicators.
- Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA): Framework to assess ecosystems and their contributions to human well-being.
- Focused on carbon sequestration, water provisioning, and biodiversity benefits.
Global Relevance and Strategic Importance
- Climate Change Mitigation: Forests are vital carbon sinks.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Forest ecosystems house diverse flora and fauna.
- India’s Leadership: Balances development with ecological sustainability on the global stage.
- Soft Power & Diplomacy: Environmental leadership enhances India’s image in global governance.
Summary
- India participated in the 20th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) at the UN Headquarters, New York.
- As a founding member of UNFF, India reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable forest management (SFM) under the UN Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) 2017–2030.
- India showcased achievements such as the Green India Mission, afforestation programs, and the International Big Cat Alliance.
- Tools like SEEA and MEA were used to highlight India’s progress in quantifying ecosystem services like carbon storage and water provisioning.
- The event emphasized India’s alignment with global efforts in climate change mitigation and biodiversity protection.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) was established under the aegis of which UN body?
A) UN General Assembly
B) UN Environment Programme
C) UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
D) World Bank
Answer: C
2. Which of the following is not a focus area of the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (2017–2030)?
A) Reverse forest loss
B) Promote deforestation for agriculture
C) Enhance forest-based benefits
D) Mobilize forest financing
Answer: B
3. The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) is used for:
A) Tracking financial inclusion
B) Estimating carbon emissions from industries
C) Integrating environmental data into economic policy
D) Measuring deforestation through satellite images
Answer: C
Mains
1. “India’s participation in UNFF20 reflects its growing role in global forest governance.” Discuss how national initiatives align with the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests.
2. Examine India’s use of environmental-economic accounting tools like SEEA and MEA in forest management. How can these frameworks aid in sustainable development?
6. India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) – International Relation
Why in News?
India and the United Kingdom have announced the finalization of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), offering tariff-free access to the vast majority of Indian exports to the UK and easing the mobility of Indian professionals.
Key Provisions of the India–UK FTA
| Provision | Benefit/Impact |
|---|---|
| Zero-duty access (99%) | Enhances export competitiveness for gems, textiles, engineering goods |
| Social security exemption | Indian professionals in the UK can avoid contributions for up to 3 years |
| Professional mobility | Eases visa norms and qualification recognition, aiding IT and consultancy sectors |
| Boost to FDI | UK investors expected to engage more actively in Indian service sectors |
Sector-wise Impact Analysis
| Sector | Impact |
|---|---|
| Engineering Goods | Export value may nearly double to $7.55 billion by 2029–30 |
| Apparel & Textiles | Gains over competitors like Bangladesh & Vietnam due to tariff elimination |
| Gems & Jewellery | High-value exports become more profitable |
| IT Services | Smoother visa norms + recognition of qualifications |
| Employers | Savings on social contributions when sending employees to the UK |
Concerns Raised – Particularly by Farmers
| Issue | Concern |
|---|---|
| Increased imports | Cheaper U.K. agricultural products like lamb and salmon may flood Indian markets |
| Income insecurity | Traditional farmers may face falling prices and competition |
| Lack of safeguards | No clear protective mechanisms against sudden import surges |
| Precedent effect | May open the door to similar concessions in FTAs with EU/USA |
Geopolitical and Policy Significance
- FTA Template: Sets a negotiation benchmark for future FTAs with developed economies.
- Trade Diplomacy: Enhances India’s economic and political ties with the UK post-Brexit.
- Pressure on Domestic Policy: Could compel India to liberalize more sensitive sectors.
Way Forward
- Safeguard Measures: Introduce phased liberalization, safeguard clauses, and sunset reviews for sensitive sectors like agriculture and MSMEs.
- Competitiveness Boost: Enhance R&D, skill development, and value-added manufacturing.
- Agri-Sector Protection: Build in trigger clauses to restrict import surges and ensure income support schemes for farmers.
- Monitoring Mechanism: Set up a bilateral dispute resolution and performance review framework.
Summary
India and the UK have finalized a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that provides zero-duty access to 99% of Indian exports, making it one of India’s most comprehensive bilateral trade deals.
- The agreement benefits key sectors like engineering, textiles, gems and jewellery, and IT services, while raising concerns among domestic farmers due to reduced protection from imported agri-products.
- The deal also includes social security exemptions for Indian professionals, making overseas work more financially attractive.
- While hailed as a strategic economic boost, it may serve as a template for future FTAs with entities like the EU and U.S., requiring balanced policy measures to protect vulnerable sectors.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following Indian sectors is expected to benefit most directly from zero-duty access under the India–UK FTA?
A) Petroleum
B) Gems and Jewellery
C) Pharmaceuticals
D) Automobiles
Answer: B
2. The India–UK FTA provides temporary Indian workers in the UK exemption from:
A) Income tax
B) Immigration checks
C) Social security contributions
D) VAT payments
Answer: C
3. One of the major concerns Indian farmers have with the India–UK FTA is:
A) Rise in export duties on Indian products
B) Competition from cheap UK agricultural imports
C) Mandatory GM crop introduction
D) Banning of local subsidies
Answer: B
Mains
1. “The India–UK Free Trade Agreement offers vast opportunities but must be approached with caution.” Analyze the economic and socio-political implications of the FTA for India.
2. Evaluate the sectoral benefits and challenges arising from India’s FTA with the UK. How should India balance global integration with domestic sector protection?
7. Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN) – International Relations
Why in News?
The Quad countries (India, US, Japan, Australia) conducted a Tabletop Exercise at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii, marking the launch of the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN) pilot during the 4th Quad Leaders’ Summit (September 2024).
Key Takeaways
- IPLN Objective: Enhance logistics coordination among Quad partners for civilian disaster response in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Focus: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), not military operations.
- Strategic Relevance:
- Supports a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
- Counters Chinese influence through strategic cooperation
- Reinforces supply chain resilience and regional trust
- Complements Quad initiatives like maritime security and infrastructure cooperation
Background on the Quad
- Formation Origin: 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami response
- First Official Meet: 2007 (ASEAN Regional Forum, Philippines)
- Revival: 2017
- Annual Summits: Since 2021
- Core Quad Goals:
- Uphold a rules-based global order
- Ensure freedom of navigation
- Foster liberal trade
- Provide alternatives to debt-trap financing
Summary
The IPLN strengthens regional humanitarian preparedness under the Quad framework. It highlights India’s role as a key logistics and relief hub in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its Act East policy, disaster diplomacy, and strategic autonomy goals.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN), recently in news, is:
A. A military coordination mechanism among Quad nations
B. A logistics and disaster relief collaboration initiative under Quad
C. A trade pact among ASEAN and Quad countries
D. A bilateral maritime agreement between India and Australia
Correct Answer: B
Mains
1. “The Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN) marks a shift in Quad’s strategic engagement from dialogue to practical coordination.”
Discuss the significance of IPLN for India’s disaster diplomacy and regional leadership in the Indo-Pacific.
8. India’s Draft Climate Finance Taxonomy – Environment
Why in News?
India’s Finance Ministry has proposed a climate finance taxonomy, creating a standardized framework to classify sustainable investments. This is a key step in ensuring transparency, fighting greenwashing, and mobilizing credible climate finance domestically and internationally.
Key Features of the Climate Taxonomy
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | To define criteria for environmentally sustainable and climate-aligned investments |
| Types of Activities | – Climate Supportive: Directly reduce emissions or boost resilience – Climate Transition: Help hard-to-abate sectors (like steel/cement) reduce emissions |
| Sectors Covered | – Power generation – Buildings & infrastructure – Mobility/transport – Agriculture & food – Water security & resource management |
| Greenwashing Prevention | Sets measurable, verifiable standards to stop misleading claims in ESG investments |
| Investor Utility | Helps banks, NBFCs, regulators, and investors assess climate compliance and funding priorities |
What is Greenwashing?
Greenwashing refers to making false, misleading, or exaggerated claims about the environmental friendliness of a product, investment, or policy.
The taxonomy seeks to eliminate such practices by enforcing standardized definitions and criteria.
Power Sector Reforms and Expansion
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Capacity (Feb 2025) | 470.4 GW |
| Target Capacity by 2049 | 777.14 GW |
| Tech Priority | Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) thermal plants (46% efficiency vs. 38–42% in older systems) |
| Goal | Achieve higher thermal efficiency + reduce emissions per megawatt-hour |
Climate Adaptation Investment Requirements
- Total Requirement (by 2030): ₹56.68 trillion (~USD 648.5 billion)
- Sectors Needing Adaptation Investment: Forestry, fisheries, infrastructure, water, biodiversity
- Based on India’s Initial Adaptation Communication to the UN in Dec 2023
Strategic and Global Significance
- Aligns India’s domestic investment with global sustainability norms.
- Strengthens India’s stance in climate finance negotiations with developed countries.
- Could serve as a regional model for other developing economies.
Summary
- The Finance Ministry released a draft framework titled “India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy”, aiming to define and guide investments in green and climate-resilient infrastructure.
- The framework categorizes activities as climate-supportive or transition-oriented, aligning India’s investment strategy with its Net Zero 2070 and Developed Nation by 2047 goals.
- It also aims to combat greenwashing, helping banks, investors, and regulators identify genuine climate-related investments.
- Key sectors include energy, transport, agriculture, water, and infrastructure, with a plan to expand power capacity to 777 GW by 2049.
- India estimates a need for ₹56.68 trillion (USD 648.5 billion) for climate adaptation investments by 2030.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The draft climate finance taxonomy introduced by the Finance Ministry aims to:
A) Increase tax on fossil fuels
B) Guide investments in green and climate-resilient projects
C) Create a carbon market
D) Fund afforestation exclusively
Answer: B
2. In the context of climate policy, what does the term “greenwashing” refer to?
A) Recycling industrial waste
B) Exaggerating or falsifying environmental credentials
C) Cleaning carbon filters
D) Shifting industries to green zones
Answer: B
3. Which of the following sectors are covered under India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy framework?
- Water resource management
- Transport
- Real estate speculation
- Power generation
Select the correct answer:
A) 1, 2, and 4 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) All of the above
Answer: A
Mains
1. “India’s climate finance taxonomy is a foundational step toward green economic transformation.” Discuss its role in ensuring sustainable investment, transparency, and combating greenwashing.
2. Examine the financial and policy implications of India’s goal to expand power generation capacity and mobilize ₹56.68 trillion for climate adaptation by 2030.