18th June 2025 – Current Affairs

1. Sowa-Rigpa Traditional Medicine – History & Culture

Why in News?

A one-day Samyoga event was held at the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh, where experts from 10 Indian states convened to discuss and promote the ancient medical system Sowa-Rigpa.

What is Sowa-Rigpa?

Sowa-Rigpa means “Science of Healing” in Tibetan and is also known as Traditional Tibetan Medicine or the Amchi system.

Historical Background

• Over 2,000 years old.
• Codified during 8th century CE under Tibetan King Trisong Detsen.
• Developed from indigenous practices and heavily influenced by:
  • Ayurveda (India)
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Greek Unani principles

Philosophy & Beliefs

• Focuses on holistic health, balancing body, mind, and environment.
• Stresses disease prevention, longevity, and harmony with natural rhythms.

Diagnostic Techniques

• Pulse reading
• Urine analysis
• Detailed patient history
• Includes spiritual and herbal therapies, lifestyle regulation

Geographical Spread

• Practiced in:
  • Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan, Nepal, Russia, and China
  • India – especially in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh (in border areas like Lahaul-Spiti)

Modern Recognition and Education

• Recognized in India under the AYUSH Ministry since 2010
• Institutional support includes the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh
• Knowledge transfer occurs both through oral traditions and formal education

Sustainable Relevance: Himalayan Nettle

• The Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) is being explored for:
  • Textile fibre (eco-friendly alternative)
  • Recognized as a sustainable source
  • Emphasis on value addition for local Himalayan economies

Summary

Sowa-Rigpa is an ancient holistic healing system originating over 2,000 years ago, integrating Indian, Chinese, and local Tibetan practices. Now formally recognized under India’s AYUSH framework, it is practiced in various Himalayan regions. The recent Samyoga event in Leh highlights growing interest in preserving and promoting this system, especially alongside eco-conscious initiatives like the sustainable use of Himalayan nettle.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Sowa-Rigpa, recently seen in news, is:
A. A Buddhist meditation technique
B. A traditional Tibetan system of medicine
C. A Himalayan agricultural practice
D. An Indo-Greek philosophical doctrine
Answer: B. A traditional Tibetan system of medicine

2. The Sowa-Rigpa system integrates knowledge from all the following EXCEPT:
A. Ayurveda
B. Unani
C. Traditional Chinese Medicine
D. Allopathy
Answer: D. Allopathy

3. Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia), recently in news, is primarily explored for:
A. Anti-malarial properties
B. Biodiesel production
C. Textile fibre
D. Paper pulp
Answer: C. Textile fibre

4. National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa is located in:
A. Shimla
B. Dharamshala
C. Leh
D. Gangtok
Answer: C. Leh

Mains

1. “Sowa-Rigpa represents an integration of ancient wisdom with modern health systems.” Discuss the evolution, core philosophy, and relevance of Sowa-Rigpa in the contemporary healthcare landscape of India.

2. Evaluate the role of traditional knowledge systems like Sowa-Rigpa in promoting sustainable development and livelihood generation in the Himalayan regions.

3. How can India balance the promotion of indigenous medicine systems such as Sowa-Rigpa with evidence-based scientific frameworks under the AYUSH Ministry?

2. Kali Tiger Reserve – Tourism vs Conservation – Environment

Why in News?

Conservation activists have raised concerns over the increasing push for wildlife tourism and safaris in the Kali Tiger Reserve, cautioning that such promotion could negatively affect the delicate ecosystem of this Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Key Facts about Kali Tiger Reserve

Ecological Significance

Vegetation

• Dominated by moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests
• Contains patches of evergreen forests
• Rich in hardwood species like teak, silver oak, and dense undergrowth

Fauna Highlights

• Flagship species: Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Indian Bison
• Avian diversity: Home to rare birds like the Great Indian Hornbill
• Rare Species: Presence of Black Panther, a melanistic variant of leopards

Biodiversity Importance

• A critical part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Functions as a vital wildlife corridor across Karnataka and Maharashtra
• Supports genetic diversity, ecological balance, and watershed stability

Current Concern: Tourism Pressure

• Unregulated tourism and safaris can lead to:
  • Habitat fragmentation
  • Disturbance to breeding grounds
  • Pollution and waste management issues
• Conservationists stress the need for eco-sensitive zoning and visitor limits

Summary

Kali Tiger Reserve, nestled in the biodiverse Western Ghats of Karnataka, plays a pivotal role in conservation of endangered species and maintaining ecological balance. While eco-tourism can raise awareness and generate revenue, unchecked safari-based tourism poses a threat to the reserve’s core ecological functions. Recent concerns have highlighted the pressing need for sustainable wildlife tourism and strict enforcement of conservation protocols.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Kali Tiger Reserve, recently in news, is located in which state?
A. Maharashtra
B. Karnataka
C. Kerala
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: B. Karnataka

2. Which river gives its name to the Kali Tiger Reserve?
A. Kabini
B. Kali
C. Kaveri
D. Krishna
Answer: B. Kali

3. Kali Tiger Reserve is a part of which of the following ecological zones?
A. Eastern Ghats
B. Central Highlands
C. Western Ghats
D. Deccan Plateau
Answer: C. Western Ghats

4. Which of the following species is not typically found in Kali Tiger Reserve?
A. Great Indian Hornbill
B. Snow Leopard
C. Black Panther
D. Indian Bison
Answer: B. Snow Leopard

Mains

1. “Tourism, if not regulated, can be a double-edged sword for biodiversity conservation.” Examine this statement in the context of the Kali Tiger Reserve and similar protected areas in India.

2. Evaluate the ecological significance of the Kali Tiger Reserve within the Western Ghats. What strategies can be adopted to ensure sustainable eco-tourism in such sensitive zones?

3. Discuss the role of community participation in the management of Tiger Reserves in India, with special reference to the challenges faced in eco-sensitive regions like the Kali Tiger Reserve.

3. India’s 2027 Census – Digital Transition & Caste Enumeration – Governance

Why in News?

The Government of India has notified the conduct of the 16th National Census to be held in 2026–27, marking a major shift in India’s data-gathering approach. This will be India’s first digital Census and the first nationwide caste-based census since 1931.

Key Highlights

Two-Phase Structure

Phase 1: House-Listing and Housing Census

• Captures building and housing details: type of construction, source of drinking water, access to sanitation, electricity, etc.

Phase 2: Population Enumeration

• Collects individual demographic and socio-economic information: name, age, sex, education, religion, language, marital status, and caste data.

First Digital Census: Key Innovations

Technology Use

• Mobile apps and cloud-based systems for real-time data collection and monitoring
• GPS tagging and digital coding to enhance geographical accuracy
• Automated error detection and supervisor-led quality control

Self-Enumeration Feature

• Citizens can fill their census data via a web portal or mobile app
• Each household receives a unique Census ID, later verified by field enumerators

Challenges and Mitigation

Significance and Implications

• Governance & Planning: Enables evidence-based policymaking for welfare, infrastructure, education, and employment
• Caste Enumeration: Will provide updated caste data after a gap of nearly 100 years—significant for affirmative action policies
• Digital Governance Push: Aligns with Digital India Mission and improves efficiency in public data management
• Inclusivity: Self-enumeration can empower marginalized and urban populations to ensure their representation

Summary

India’s 2027 Census marks a landmark transition into a digital, self-enumerated, and caste-inclusive demographic exercise. While embracing technological innovation, the census also reintroduces caste data collection after nearly a century. It aims to modernize population data collection while addressing operational challenges through digital literacy programs, offline syncing, and quality monitoring. This move is expected to significantly enhance data-driven governance and social equity in India.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. India’s next Census will be the:
A. 14th Census
B. 15th Census
C.16th Census
D. 17th Census
Answer: C. 16th Census

2. The legal authority for conducting the Census in India is derived from:
A. Representation of the People Act, 1951
B. National Statistics Act, 2005
C. Census Act, 1948
D. Population Control Act, 2001
Answer: C. Census Act, 1948

3. Which of the following features is being introduced for the first time in India’s 2027 Census?
A. Offline enumeration
B. Use of satellite data
C. Digital self-enumeration
D. Paper-based forms
Answer: C. Digital self-enumeration

4. The last caste-based Census in India was conducted in:
A. 1951
B. 1961
C. 1931
D. 2011
Answer: C. 1931

Mains

1. “India’s 2027 Census marks a paradigm shift in data governance.” Discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with transitioning to a fully digital and self-enumerated Census.

2. Examine the significance of including caste-based enumeration in the 2027 Census. What are the implications for policymaking, social justice, and data privacy?

3. How does digitizing the Census align with India’s broader e-governance and Digital India vision? Evaluate the infrastructural and administrative challenges in this context.

4. PRASHAD Scheme – Spiritual Tourism Infrastructure – Economy

Why in News?

The long-pending Chamundi Hills Development Project in Karnataka has gained momentum under the PRASHAD Scheme — a central initiative to rejuvenate key pilgrimage and spiritual heritage sites across India.

Key Takeaways

Objectives of the PRASHAD Scheme

1. Develop and modernize infrastructure at key pilgrimage sites
2. Promote sustainable and inclusive spiritual tourism
3. Preserve and restore India’s cultural and spiritual heritage
4. Create local employment opportunities linked to tourism
5. Enhance domestic and international tourist footfall

Implementation Framework

Key Development Components

Infrastructure Development

• Roads, parking areas, drinking water, sanitation, lighting, and solid waste management
• Development of pilgrim amenities like food courts, accommodation, signages, and shelters

Connectivity Enhancement

• Improved last-mile connectivity through road, rail, and air networks to pilgrimage sites

Cultural Conservation

• Restoration of temples, ghats, lakes, and heritage structures
• Incorporation of traditional art, rituals, and practices into tourism experiences

Community Involvement

• Training and employment for local residents
• Stakeholder participation ensures economic benefits for local communities

Sustainability Focus

• Use of eco-friendly materials, waste management solutions, and green technologies
• Promotion of responsible tourism to reduce environmental damage

Summary

The PRASHAD Scheme is a central initiative to promote spiritual and heritage tourism by upgrading infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and preserving cultural identities at India’s pilgrimage sites. Through 100% central funding, CSR support, and a sustainable development focus, the scheme aims to improve the pilgrimage experience while also empowering local communities. It exemplifies India’s approach to development with cultural sensitivity.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The PRASHAD Scheme is implemented by which ministry?
A. Ministry of Culture
B. Ministry of Tourism
C. Ministry of Urban Development
D. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Answer: B. Ministry of Tourism

2. Which of the following is not a key focus area under the PRASHAD scheme?
A. Pilgrim facilities and amenities
B. Development of smart cities
C. Restoration of cultural heritage sites
D. Sustainable tourism practices
Answer: B. Development of smart cities

3. The PRASHAD scheme was launched in:
A. 2012–13
B. 2014–15
C. 2016–17
D. 2018–19
Answer: B. 2014–15

4. Which of the following correctly describes the PRASHAD scheme?
A. Scheme for agriculture infrastructure development
B. Scheme for rejuvenating pilgrimage and heritage tourism sites
C. Skill development program for rural artisans
D. Urban housing scheme for slum dwellers
Answer: B. Scheme for rejuvenating pilgrimage and heritage tourism sites

Mains

1. “The PRASHAD scheme aims to modernize pilgrimage experiences without losing cultural essence.” Evaluate the impact of the PRASHAD scheme on spiritual tourism and community development in India.

2. Discuss the role of the PRASHAD scheme in integrating tourism with sustainable development. How does it balance heritage conservation with infrastructure growth?

3. Examine how schemes like PRASHAD can contribute to both economic development and cultural preservation in states like Himachal Pradesh, which have significant spiritual tourism potential.

5. India’s Fiscal Consolidation Trajectory: Strengths, Slippages, and Policy Implications – Economy

Why in News?

The Government of India has released provisional fiscal data for FY 2024–25, offering a snapshot of the country’s progress on fiscal consolidation, public expenditure priorities, and macroeconomic management. The update is particularly relevant in the lead-up to fiscal planning for FY 2025–26.

Key Highlights of Fiscal Performance (FY 2024–25)

Key Trends and Takeaways

1. Fiscal Deficit Containment

• Slightly exceeded the RE but held within manageable limits due to higher-than-estimated nominal GDP.
• Suggests better expenditure discipline and moderate borrowing needs.

2. Revenue Deficit Improvement

• Reached 1.7% of GDP, the lowest since FY 2007–08.
• Indicates a healthier fiscal structure, with a lower reliance on borrowings for current expenditure.

3. Capital Expenditure Boom

• 61% YoY rise in April reflects government push toward infrastructure.
• Signals a growth-oriented fiscal strategy, aimed at crowding in private investment and job creation.

4. Tax Revenue Shortfall

• The ₹0.6 trillion shortfall implies slower-than-expected tax buoyancy.
• Calls for reforms in revenue mobilization such as better GST compliance, widening the tax base, and curbing exemptions.

5. RBI Dividend Buffer

• RBI’s record surplus transfer provided non-tax revenue cushion, easing fiscal pressures.

6. FY26 Outlook

• Lower expected nominal GDP growth poses a fiscal pressure.
• However, strong capex momentum and revenue discipline provide a stable base for fiscal management.

Policy Implications and Recommendations

Summary

India’s fiscal consolidation appears to be on track, marked by a record-low revenue deficit and significant growth in infrastructure-related capital expenditure. However, the road to fiscal sustainability requires deeper structural reforms, improved tax efficiency, and enhanced Centre-State fiscal coordination. FY26 may be challenging due to slower GDP growth, but prior fiscal prudence offers a cushion.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The fiscal deficit of India is defined as:
A. Total expenditure minus total receipts including borrowings
B. Total expenditure minus total revenue receipts
C. Revenue deficit plus borrowings
D. Total expenditure minus total receipts excluding borrowings
Answer: D.Total expenditure minus total receipts excluding borrowings

2. Which of the following best describes “capital expenditure” by the government?
A. Expenditure on salaries and pensions
B. Grants to states for disaster relief
C. Expenditure on construction of roads and railways
D.Interest payments on public debt
Answer: C. Expenditure on construction of roads and railways

3. Which of the following contributed significantly to managing the fiscal deficit in FY25?
A. High disinvestment receipts
B. Reduction in subsidies
C. High nominal GDP and RBI dividends
D. Increased GST compensation
Answer: C. High nominal GDP and RBI dividends

4. Revenue deficit indicates:
A. The gap between capital receipts and capital expenditure
B. Government’s inability to fund its current expenditure from current revenue
C. Total budgetary deficit
D. Difference between imports and exports
Answer: B. Government’s inability to fund its current expenditure from current revenue

Mains

1. “India’s fiscal consolidation is improving, but long-term sustainability remains a challenge.” Examine the current fiscal performance and suggest structural reforms required to ensure fiscal discipline.

2. Discuss the significance of increased capital expenditure in India’s fiscal policy. How does it impact long-term economic growth and fiscal consolidation?

3. Evaluate the role of fiscal federalism in achieving a balanced fiscal consolidation path in India. What measures can strengthen Centre-State financial coordination?

6. Discovery of Portulaca bharat – A New Endemic Plant Species – Environment

Why in News?

A team of botanists has discovered a new species of flowering plant named Portulaca bharat in the Aravali Hills near Jaipur, Rajasthan. The discovery contributes to India’s record of endemic species and highlights the ecological richness of semi-arid habitats.

Key Takeaways

Botanical Features

• Leaves: Opposite, slightly concave
• Flowers: Pale yellow turning creamish-white at the apex
• Special Traits:
  • Glandular hairs on stamen filaments
  • Thickened roots for water storage – a succulent adaptation

Genus: Portulaca – Global and Indian Context

Conservation Significance

Vulnerability:

• Highly location-specific (narrow endemism)
• Vulnerable to:
  • Habitat degradation
  • Urban encroachment
  • Climate change (altered rainfall patterns and temperatures)

Conservation Needs:

• Microhabitat protection of Aravali dry zones
• In-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies
• Botanical documentation and monitoring for survival

Summary

The discovery of Portulaca bharat, a new endemic succulent species in the Aravali Hills, underlines India’s vast but fragile plant biodiversity. With only 10 known individuals in a hyper-specific habitat, the species faces serious conservation challenges. This finding stresses the urgency of protecting localized ecosystems and illustrates the ecological value of semi-arid landscapes, often overlooked in conservation priorities.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Portulaca bharat, recently discovered, is endemic to which of the following regions?
A. Western Ghats
B. Thar Desert
C. Aravali Hills
D. Vindhya Range
Answer: C. Aravali Hills

2. The genus Portulaca is known for:
A. Parasitic behavior
B. High-altitude adaptations
C. Aquatic survival
D. Drought-resistance and water storage
Answer: D. Drought-resistance and water storage

3. Endemic species like Portulaca bharat are vulnerable because:
A. They are genetically modified
B. They exist in very limited and specific habitats
C. They are invasive species
D. They reproduce rapidly
Answer: B. They exist in very limited and specific habitats

4. Which of the following statements is true regarding Portulaca bharat?
A. It is found across multiple Indian states
B. It belongs to a genus that thrives in aquatic ecosystems
C. It has creamish-white flowers and thick roots
D. It is a non-flowering, parasitic plant
Answer: C. It has creamish-white flowers and thick roots

Mains

1. “The discovery of narrowly endemic species like Portulaca bharat signals both biodiversity richness and vulnerability.” Discuss the importance of documenting new plant species and the strategies needed for their conservation.

2. Explain how climate change and habitat degradation pose a dual threat to endemic plant species in India. Suggest measures for the conservation of micro-endemic flora, especially in semi-arid zones like the Aravalis.

3. Highlight the role of succulents like Portulaca in maintaining ecological stability in arid and semi-arid landscapes. How can such species be leveraged in sustainable ecosystem management?