24th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme – Comprehensive – Economy

Why in News?

The SRI Fund Scheme has gained attention for its substantial investments in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

• As of March 2025, it has infused Rs 10,979 crore into 577 MSMEs since inception.

What is the SRI Fund Scheme?

Objective

• To provide equity funding to viable MSMEs and help them:
  • Grow rapidly,
  • Access capital markets,
  • Transition into larger national or international enterprises,
  • Contribute to India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

Key Features

Strategic Focus Areas

• Equity support for MSMEs to:
  • Enhance access to capital markets (e.g., IPOs),
  • Promote job creation and economic growth,
  • Support MSMEs producing essential technologies, goods, and services critical to India’s self-reliance,
  • Enable scaling up from MSME to global/national champions.

Why is this important for India?

Broader Significance

MSMEs: Backbone of Indian Economy

• Contribute to ~30% of India’s GDP and 45% of exports.
• Major source of employment, especially in semi-urban and rural areas.

Addressing the Funding Gap

• MSMEs often struggle to get equity financing (reliant on debt or informal funding).
• The SRI Fund de-risks private investment by acting as an anchor investor.

Promoting Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat)

• Reducing dependency on imports.
• Supporting indigenous production in critical sectors.

Encouraging Innovation & Growth

• Helps MSMEs become globally competitive.
• Facilitates their transition to larger firms capable of scaling up exports and technologies.

Summary

The Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme is a crucial initiative aimed at strengthening India’s MSME sector by providing ₹50,000 crore in equity funding through a mother-daughter fund model. It combines government anchor funding (₹10,000 crore) with private equity/VC investments (₹40,000 crore). Managed by NSIC Venture Capital Fund Ltd., the scheme focuses on fostering MSME growth, job creation, and self-reliance by enabling enterprises to access capital markets, innovate, and expand globally. By March 2025, the scheme has invested ₹10,979 crore into 577 MSMEs, highlighting its significant impact.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly describes the Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme?
   a) It is a government grant scheme for rural entrepreneurs.
   b) It provides debt financing to MSMEs through banks.
   c) It is an equity fund aimed at supporting viable MSMEs through a mother-daughter fund structure.
   d) It is a subsidy program for MSME exporters.
   Answer: c) It is an equity fund aimed at supporting viable MSMEs through a mother-daughter fund structure.
   
   
2. Under the SRI Fund Scheme, the Government of India contributes how much to the total fund corpus?
   a) ₹50,000 crore
   b) ₹10,000 crore
   c) ₹40,000 crore
   d) ₹5,000 crore
   Answer: b) ₹10,000 crore
   
   
3. Which organization implements the Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme?
   a) SIDBI
   b) NABARD
   c) NSIC Venture Capital Fund Ltd.
   d) SEBI
   Answer: c) NSIC Venture Capital Fund Ltd.
   

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme in strengthening the MSME sector in India. How does the scheme aim to achieve self-reliance in critical sectors?
   
   
2. What are the challenges faced by MSMEs in India in accessing equity financing, and how does the SRI Fund Scheme address these issues? Illustrate your answer with examples.
   
   
3. Critically examine the role of the mother-daughter fund model in the SRI Fund Scheme. How does it help mobilize private capital for MSMEs?
   
   
4. How does the Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund Scheme align with the broader goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and India’s vision for becoming a global economic power?

2. E-Zero FIR to Speed Up Action on Cyber Frauds – Governance

Why in News?

• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched a pilot project for the e-Zero FIR system in Delhi.
• Aimed at enabling faster police action against cyber financial frauds exceeding ₹1 lakh.

What is the e-Zero FIR System?

Key Features

What is a Zero FIR?

• A Zero FIR is a type of First Information Report that can be filed at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction.
• It is not assigned a case number immediately. Instead, it is transferred to the police station with jurisdiction over the case.
• Purpose: Enables victims to report crimes quickly, especially in urgent situations (e.g., sexual assault, cybercrime).

Significance of e-Zero FIR in Cybercrime Management

Faster Action in Time-Critical Frauds

• Cyber financial frauds often involve real-time fund transfers; delay can make recovery impossible.
• e-Zero FIR ensures immediate registration and electronic transfer, speeding up recovery.

Jurisdiction-Free Filing = Victim-Centric Approach

• Removes geographical barriers—victims can report from anywhere, critical in cybercrimes that transcend state lines.

Streamlined Digital Integration

• Connects national-level systems (NCRP, CCTNS) with local police processes for seamless coordination.

Legal Clarity

• Grounded in BNSS, 2023, ensuring procedural consistency under the new criminal justice framework.

Increases Access to Justice

• Empowers victims, especially those unfamiliar with complex legal processes, to initiate legal action swiftly.

Supports India’s Cybersecurity Framework

• Strengthens the national response to growing cyber threats, aligning with initiatives like the National Cyber Security Policy.

Summary

The e-Zero FIR system is a jurisdiction-free, digital-first initiative by the MHA and I4C to counter high-value cyber financial frauds. It allows victims to file complaints anywhere in India, using the NCRP portal or helpline 1930, with FIRs digitally registered at the Delhi e-Crime Police Station and automatically transferred to the relevant local police station. The system is designed to reduce delays, enhance fund recovery chances, and make the legal process more victim-friendly. It operates under the legal framework of the BNSS, 2023, ensuring a seamless, integrated, and swift response to cybercrimes.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The e-Zero FIR system recently launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs is designed to primarily address which of the following?
   a) Cyber financial frauds exceeding ₹1 lakh.
   b) Crimes against women and children.
   c) Environmental crimes.
   d) Real estate frauds.
   Answer: a) Cyber financial frauds exceeding ₹1 lakh.
   
   
2. Which of the following legal provisions form the basis for the e-Zero FIR system?
   a) Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
   b) Section 173(1) and 173(1)(ii) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
   c) Information Technology Act, 2000.
   d) Indian Penal Code, 1860.
   Answer: b) Section 173(1) and 173(1)(ii) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
   
   
3. The e-Zero FIR system integrates which of the following platforms?
   1.National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP
   2.CCTNS
   3.Indian Evidence Act Database
   4.Delhi Police e-FIR portalOptions:
   a) 1, 2, and 4 only
   b) 1 and 3 only
   c) 2, 3, and 4 only
   d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
   Answer: a) 1, 2, and 4 only
   

Mains

1. What is the significance of the e-Zero FIR system in enhancing cybercrime response in India? How does it address the challenges faced by victims of cyber frauds?
   
   
2. Discuss the relevance of Zero FIR in ensuring access to justice in India’s criminal justice system. How does the e-Zero FIR model build upon this concept to tackle cyber financial frauds?
   
   
3. Evaluate the role of digital integration (NCRP, CCTNS) in strengthening the legal and administrative response to cybercrimes in India. Suggest measures for further improvement.

3. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve (NTR) – Comprehensive – Environment

Why in News?

• 52 Jenu Kuruba tribal families in Ponnampet taluk, Kodagu district, have asserted their land rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) by putting up a board in their hamlet within the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve.

Key Facts about Nagarhole Tiger Reserve

Socio-Legal Context: Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006

Forest Rights of Indigenous Communities

• The Jenu Kuruba tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), has traditionally lived in and depended on the forest.
• The Forest Rights Act, 2006 recognizes:
  • Individual rights (e.g., land ownership, habitation).
  • Community rights (e.g., access to forests for minor forest produce, grazing).
• The Jenu Kuruba’s assertion of land rights in Nagarhole reflects the tension between conservation objectives and tribal livelihoods.
• Balancing wildlife conservation with tribal rights remains a critical governance issue in India’s protected areas.

Nagarhole: Conservation Significance

Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity.
Corridor Connectivity: Crucial for wildlife movement between:

• Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka),
• Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (Tamil Nadu),
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala).

Supports flagship species like:

• Bengal Tiger: Apex predator, indicator of ecosystem health.
• Asian Elephant: Keystone species, important for forest regeneration.
• Gaurs, Dholes, Sloth Bears, Leopards: Enhance the trophic complexity of the ecosystem.

Challenges in Nagarhole

Human-Wildlife Conflict: Crop damage, livestock predation, displacement of tribal communities.
Balancing Conservation & Rights: Implementation of the FRA, 2006 versus Protected Area management objectives under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Tourism Pressure: Ecotourism needs to be regulated to prevent habitat degradation.

Summary

The Nagarhole Tiger Reserve (NTR), located at the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats, is a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It boasts rich biodiversity, including Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and diverse flora like rosewood and sandalwood. The recent assertion of land rights by Jenu Kuruba tribal families under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing wildlife conservation with Indigenous rights. Nagarhole’s ecological significance, especially as part of crucial wildlife corridors, underscores the need for inclusive conservation strategies that respect both environmental and human needs.

Prelims

1. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, recently in the news, is located at the confluence of which two major mountain ranges?
   a) Himalayas and Aravallis
   b) Vindhyas and Satpuras
   c) Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats
   d) Nilgiri Hills and Anamalai Hills
   Answer: c) Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats
   
   
2. Which river flows along the boundary of the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve?
   a) Godavari
   b) Kabini
   c) Tungabhadra
   d) Periyar
   Answer: b) Kabini
   
   
3. The Jenu Kuruba tribe, recently in the news for asserting their land rights under the FRA, is classified under which of the following categories?
   a) Scheduled Castes (SC)
   b) Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG)
   c) Denotified Tribes
   d) Other Backward Classes (OBC)
   Answer: b) Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG)
   
   
4. Which of the following is not a characteristic feature of the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve?
   a) Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
   b) Dry deciduous forests in the west and tropical moist forests in the east
   c) Presence of Bengal Tigers and Asian Elephants
   d) Connected to Bandipur and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries Answer: b) Dry deciduous forests in the west and tropical moist forests in the east (It’s the reverse!)

Mains

1. Discuss the ecological and socio-cultural significance of the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. How does the Forest Rights Act, 2006, seek to balance tribal rights with conservation objectives?
   
   
2. The conflict between conservation goals and tribal rights in India’s protected areas is a recurring issue. Critically examine this statement with reference to the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve.
   
   
3. Evaluate the role of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, with special reference to the contribution of Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, in conserving biodiversity in India.

4. Chenab Valley – Comprehensive – Defence & Security

Why in News?

• A recent anti-terror operation in Kishtwar district of Chenab Valley led to the tragic death of a soldier.
• This incident highlights the security challenges in the region, emphasizing the need for counter-terrorism efforts.

Geography & Location

Cultural Diversity

Tourist Attractions in Chenab Valley

• Bhaderwah (Mini Kashmir): Scenic meadows, cultural festivals.
• Jai Valley: Popular trekking and camping site.
• Padri Pass: Picturesque mountain pass linking Bhaderwah to Chamba (Himachal Pradesh).
• Sinthan Top: High-altitude pass offering panoramic views.
• Lal Draman and Jantroon Dhar: Popular picnic and trekking spots.

Strategic & Economic Importance

Hydroelectric Power Potential

The Chenab River and its tributaries have been harnessed for major hydropower projects:

• These projects contribute significantly to J&K’s energy supply and regional development.

Security Significance

• Proximity to Line of Control (LoC) and challenging terrain make Chenab Valley a sensitive zone for terrorist infiltration and insurgency.
• The anti-terror operation in Kishtwar reflects the region’s security complexities:
  • Difficult terrain used by militants as hideouts.
  • Need for enhanced counter-terrorism operations and community engagement.

Challenges in Chenab Valley

Security Threats: Militancy, infiltration risks.
Infrastructure Deficits: Limited connectivity, especially in remote areas.
Balancing Development & Ecology: Hydropower projects vs. environmental conservation.
Preserving Cultural Heritage: Protecting linguistic and ethnic diversity.
Disaster Risks: Vulnerable to landslides, floods, and seismic activity.

Summary

The Chenab Valley in Jammu and Kashmir is a region of breathtaking beauty, strategic importance, and cultural diversity. Encompassing Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban, the valley is defined by the Chenab River, deep gorges, and the backdrop of Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges. It is home to multiple ethnic groups speaking various languages, including Kashmiri, Gojri, Bhaderwahi, and Sarazi. While the region offers immense tourism and hydroelectric potential, it also faces challenges of security threats, infrastructure gaps, and ecological concerns. The recent anti-terror operation in Kishtwar underscores the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts required to ensure stability in this sensitive area.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following districts are part of the Chenab Valley region in Jammu & Kashmir?
   a) Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban
   b) Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora
   c) Anantnag, Pulwama, and Shopian
   d) Jammu, Samba, and Kathua
   Answer: a) Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban
   
   
2. The Chenab Valley is flanked by which two major mountain ranges?
   a) Karakoram and Ladakh
   b) Pir Panjal and Zanskar
   c) Shivalik and Dhauladhar
   d) Nilgiri and Anamalai
   Answer: b) Pir Panjal and Zanskar
   
   
3. Which of the following hydroelectric projects is located in the Chenab Valley?
   a) Sardar Sarovar Dam
   b) Bhakra Nangal Dam
   c) Baglihar Dam
   d) Tehri Dam
   Answer: c) Baglihar Dam
   
   
4. Consider the following statements about the Chenab Valley:
   1.It is located entirely in the Kashmir division of Jammu and Kashmir.
   2.It has a diverse linguistic landscape including Kashmiri, Gojri, and Bhaderwahi.
   3.The valley is traversed by National Highway 44.
   Which of the above is/are correct?
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 2 only
   c) 2 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer: b) 2 only
   (NH-44 connects Jammu to Srinagar; NH-244 traverses Chenab Valley.)
   

Mains

1. Discuss the strategic importance of the Chenab Valley in the context of India’s internal security. What measures can be adopted to address the challenges in the region?
   
   
2. The Chenab Valley exemplifies the coexistence of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and strategic challenges. Critically examine the role of development initiatives like hydroelectric projects in shaping the region’s future.
   
   
3. Chenab Valley is often called a microcosm of Jammu and Kashmir’s diversity. Illustrate this statement with examples of the region’s geography, languages, and communities.

5. Supreme Court Stays ED Probe into TASMAC – Polity

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court of India has stayed the ED’s investigation into alleged financial irregularities within the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC).
• This case raises critical questions about:
  • Federalism and division of powers,
  • The jurisdiction of central investigative agencies,
  • Political neutrality of enforcement agencies.

Key Issues Involved

TASMAC: A Quick Overview

Allegations Against TASMAC

Financial irregularities:

• Kickbacks in supply orders.
• Bribery in staff transfers.
• Overcharging at retail outlets.
• Collusion between TASMAC officials and private distilleries.

ED’s Probe:

• Initiated under PMLA, 2002, based on 41 FIRs filed by the Tamil Nadu Vigilance Department (since 2014) under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
• ED’s actions:
  • Raids at 20 locations, including TASMAC HQ.
  • Data uncovered on tender manipulation and collusion in procurement.
  • Alleged fraud of ₹1,000 crore involving private distilleries and bottling units.

Supreme Court’s Intervention

Constitutional & Legal Dimensions

Federalism under the Indian Constitution

• State List (List II): Alcohol and liquor regulation is a State subject under Entry 8 and Entry 51 (Duties on excise except on alcoholic liquors for human consumption).
• Union List (List I): Money laundering is covered under PMLA, 2002.
• Tension: ED, a central agency, investigating matters rooted in state jurisdiction (liquor trade) raises federalism concerns.

Relevant Laws

Broader Implications

Summary

The Supreme Court’s stay on the ED’s probe into TASMAC has brought critical issues of federalism, agency jurisdiction, and political neutrality to the forefront. While the ED alleges a ₹1,000 crore fraud involving TASMAC and private distilleries, the Tamil Nadu government argues this probe represents political vendetta and federal overreach. The case underscores the need for clear boundaries between central and state powers, especially when central agencies act in domains constitutionally reserved for states. The decision reinforces the principle that cooperative federalism is essential for a balanced and harmonious constitutional framework.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. TASMAC, recently in the news, is a:
   a) State-owned electricity company.
   b) State-run liquor retail monopoly in Tamil Nadu.
   c) Central PSU under the Ministry of Defence.
   d) Cooperative for agricultural marketing in Karnataka.
   Answer: b) State-run liquor retail monopoly in Tamil Nadu.
   
   
2. Under which of the following constitutional lists does the regulation of liquor trade fall?
   a) Union List
   b) State List
   c) Concurrent List
   d) Residuary Powers
   Answer: b) State List (Entry 8 & 51).
   
   
3. Which of the following laws empowers the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to investigate cases related to money laundering?
   a) Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
   b) Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002
   c) Companies Act, 2013
   d) Indian Penal Code, 1860
   Answer: b) Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002
   
   
4. Which constitutional principle is most closely associated with the conflict between the ED’s probe into TASMAC and the Tamil Nadu government’s objections?
   a) Parliamentary sovereignty
   b) Cooperative federalism
   c) Judicial supremacy
   d) Fundamental rights
   Answer: b) Cooperative federalism
   

Mains

1. Discuss the constitutional principles involved in the Supreme Court’s stay on the ED probe into TASMAC. How does this case reflect the tension between state autonomy and central investigative powers?
   
   
2. Evaluate the implications of using central agencies like the ED in investigations involving state-run enterprises such as TASMAC. How can India ensure a balance between anti-corruption measures and cooperative federalism?
   
   
3. “Ensuring transparency in public sector undertakings while safeguarding federalism is a delicate balance.” Critically analyse this statement in the context of the TASMAC-ED case.

6. PM E-Drive Scheme – Environment

Why in News?

• The PM E-Drive Scheme has recently allocated funds for the establishment of 72,000 public EV charging stations across India.
• Marks a major policy push towards achieving electric mobility and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

What is the PM E-Drive Scheme?

Objectives of PM E-Drive

Promote EV Adoption:

• Encourage uptake of e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-buses, e-ambulances, e-trucks.

Expand Charging Infrastructure:

• Establish a comprehensive national EV charging grid:
  • Reduce range anxiety.
  • Ensure urban and rural coverage.

Digital Integration via Super App:

• BHEL will develop a Unified EV Super App offering:
  • Real-time charger availability.
  • Slot booking options.
  • Payment integration.
  • Deployment progress tracking.

Simplified Incentives:

• Buyers receive Aadhaar-authenticated e-vouchers post EV purchase, delivered directly to mobile numbers.

Environmental Goals:

• Reduce carbon emissions.
• Improve air quality.
• Enhance energy security by reducing oil imports.

Implementation Framework

Significance of PM E-Drive

Environmental Impact:

• Supports India’s Net Zero 2070 goal.
• Helps meet Paris Agreement targets.

Energy Security:

• Reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels.
• Promotes indigenous energy generation via renewables.

Economic Opportunities:

• Encourages EV manufacturing ecosystem.
• Job creation in EV production, maintenance, and charging infrastructure.

Social Benefits:

• Cleaner air, especially in urban areas.
• Promotes green mobility solutions for rural India.

Challenges Ahead

Grid capacity constraints for large-scale EV charging.
Cost and availability of battery technologies.
Land availability for charging stations.
Need for consumer awareness and trust-building.
Smooth integration of Super App with existing infrastructure.

Summary

The PM E-Drive Scheme (2024–2026), with a budget of ₹10,900 crore, is India’s latest initiative to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. By establishing 72,000 public EV charging stations, offering direct demand incentives through Aadhaar-linked e-vouchers, and creating a Unified EV Super App, the scheme aims to build a robust electric mobility ecosystem across India. Led by BHEL as the nodal agency, this scheme aligns with India’s broader goals of sustainability, energy security, and reduced carbon emissions.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. What is the primary objective of the PM E-Drive Scheme?
   a) Promote hydrogen fuel cell technology.
   b) Establish a national grid for charging electric vehicles and boost EV adoption.
   c) Provide subsidies for ethanol blending in petrol.
   d) Support the development of nuclear power plants.
   Answer: b) Establish a national grid for charging electric vehicles and boost EV adoption.
   
   
2. Which of the following agencies is the nodal body for implementing the PM E-Drive Scheme?
   a) NITI Aayog
   b) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
   c) Indian Oil Corporation (IOC)
   d) Central Electricity Authority (CEA)
   Answer: b) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
   
   
3. Under the PM E-Drive Scheme, demand incentives for EV buyers are provided via:
   a) Bank loans at subsidised rates.
   b) Direct bank transfers through Aadhaar-linked e-vouchers.
   c) Income tax deductions for EV purchases.
   d) GST waivers on EV sales.
   Answer: b) Direct bank transfers through Aadhaar-linked e-vouchers.
   
   
4. Which of the following is not a focus area of the PM E-Drive Scheme?
   a) Establishing a national EV charging network.
   b) Supporting e-ambulances and e-trucks.
   c) Promoting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in rural areas.
   d) Developing a Unified EV Super App.
   Answer: c) Promoting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in rural areas.
   

Mains

1. Discuss the objectives and implementation strategy of the PM E-Drive Scheme. How does it contribute to India’s goals of energy security and environmental sustainability?
   
   
2. Electric mobility is crucial for India’s energy transition. Critically examine the potential and challenges of the PM E-Drive Scheme in transforming India’s transport sector.
   
   
3. The PM E-Drive Scheme integrates incentives with digital infrastructure (Unified EV Super App). Discuss the benefits and challenges of such a tech-enabled approach for electric mobility in India.

7. SPICED Scheme – Economy

Why in News?

• The Spices Board of India has allocated ₹130 crore to nearly 45,000 beneficiaries under the SPICED Scheme for FY 2025–2026.
• The scheme aims to boost spice exports, improve productivity, and promote sustainability in India’s spice sector.

SPICED Scheme: Key Features

Objectives of SPICED Scheme

Enhance spice exports by improving competitiveness.
Support value addition and post-harvest processing for high-quality products.
Boost cardamom productivity (a focus crop) and GI-tagged spices.
Ensure clean and safe spice production through Mission Clean and Safe Spices.
Promote Mission Value Addition for diversified products (e.g., essential oils, oleoresins, spice blends).
Facilitate market access for small and marginal farmers and exporters.
Encourage sustainable practices across the spice value chain.

Key Focus Areas

Background: Spices Board of India

India’s Spice Sector: Key Facts

Significance of SPICED Scheme

Supports India’s agro-export strategy under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Enhances global competitiveness of Indian spices.
Boosts rural livelihoods and income for small farmers and FPOs.
Strengthens India’s brand as a global spice hub.
Aligns with SDGs:

• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) – by promoting agricultural productivity.
• SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production) – by encouraging sustainable practices.

Summary

The SPICED Scheme (Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development) is a flagship initiative by the Spices Board of India to enhance India’s spice sector. With a total budget of ₹223 crore and a special allocation of ₹130 crore for 2025–26, the scheme focuses on boosting spice exports, supporting marginal farmers, promoting value addition, ensuring clean and safe spices, and strengthening India’s global spice market position. Given that India produces 75 of 109 ISO-listed spices and exports to 159 countries, this scheme is pivotal in enhancing export capabilities, ensuring sustainability, and driving inclusive growth in the spice sector.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly describes the SPICED Scheme?
   a) A scheme for promoting organic farming across India.
   b) A scheme for improving the spice sector’s productivity and export capabilities.
   c) A scheme for providing free agricultural machinery to farmers.
   d) A scheme to promote handloom exports in India.
   Answer: b) A scheme for improving the spice sector’s productivity and export capabilities.
   
   
2. Which of the following spices are primarily produced in India?
   1.Chil
   2.Cardamom
   3.Cumin
   4.Cloves
   a) 1, 2, and 3 only
   b) 2, 3, and 4 only
   c) 1, 3, and 4 only
   d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
   Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
   
   
3. Which of the following statements is true about the Spices Board of India?
   a) It was established in 1976 by merging the Coffee and Tea Boards.
   b) It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
   c) It exclusively promotes exports of cardamom.
   d) It is responsible for the import of spices into India.
   Answer: b) It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
   
   
4. Which country is not among the top three importers of Indian spices?
   a) China
   b) USA
   c) Bangladesh
   d) Russia
   Answer: d) Russia
   

Mains

1. Discuss the objectives and key components of the SPICED Scheme. How does the scheme aim to make India a global leader in the spice trade?
   
   
2. India is often called the “Spice Bowl of the World.” Critically analyse the challenges faced by India’s spice sector and how schemes like SPICED can address these challenges.
   
   
3. Evaluate the role of the Spices Board of India in promoting sustainable spice production and exports. What measures can further enhance India’s competitiveness in the global spice market?