25 February 2025-Current Affairs

by | Mar 5, 2025 | Current Affairs

1. Zonal Councils in India – Polity

Why in News?

  • The Union Home Minister recently chaired the 27th meeting of the Western Zonal Council in Pune.
  • This highlights the ongoing role of Zonal Councils in fostering inter-state cooperation and resolving disputes.

What are Zonal Councils?

Zonal Councils were created to promote inter-state cooperation and resolve disputes, ensuring better coordination between states and the central government.

Origin & Purpose

  • Proposed by: Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956.
  • Established under: States Reorganisation Act, 1956.
  • Objective:
    • Strengthen cooperative federalism.
    • Resolve inter-state disputes.
    • Promote economic and social planning among states.
    • Improve Centre-State coordination.

Composition & Structure

  • Chairperson: Union Home Minister (permanent chair).
  • Vice-Chairperson: Chief Ministers of member states, on a rotational basis (yearly).
  • Members:
    • Chief Minister of each member state.
    • Two additional ministers from each state.
    • Administrators of Union Territories (if applicable).
    • Other officials as required.

Zonal Councils & Their Member States

Zonal CouncilMember States/UTs
Northern CouncilHaryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh
Central CouncilChhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh
Eastern CouncilBihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal
Western CouncilGoa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu
Southern CouncilAndhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry
North-Eastern CouncilAssam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim (added in 2002)

🔹 Note: The North-Eastern Council (NEC) was established separately under the North Eastern Council Act, 1971.

Functions & Significance

Zonal Councils focus on:

  • Inter-State Dispute Resolution:
    • Land & water disputes.
    • Boundary conflicts.
    • Law & order cooperation.
  • Economic & Social Development:
    • Development planning.
    • Industrial growth & resource sharing.
  • Centre-State Coordination:
    • mplementation of central schemes.
    • Policy alignment between states and the Union.
  • Other Important Issues:
    • Linguistic minorities & education.
    • Infrastructure (transportation, power, irrigation).
    • Border security & crime control.

Recent Developments

  • Zonal Councils have become more action-oriented, ensuring quicker resolutions.
  • Example: Recent meetings addressed land transfer issues, environmental concerns, and crime control between states.
  • They help reduce legal disputes by fostering dialogue.

Relevance for Himachal Pradesh

  • HP is part of the Northern Zonal Council.
  • Key issues discussed for HP:
    • Water-sharing agreements (e.g., with Punjab for Sutlej-Yamuna Link Canal).
    • Tourism development and disaster management in hilly regions.
    • Infrastructure projects such as national highways & railway expansion.
    • Forest rights and environmental conservation policies affecting HP’s tribal and rural areas.

Comparison with Other Inter-State Coordination Bodies

BodyEstablished ByFocus Area
Zonal CouncilsStates Reorganisation Act, 1956Inter-State disputes, economic & social planning
Inter-State CouncilArticle 263 of the ConstitutionPolicy coordination between Centre & States
North-Eastern Council (NEC)NEC Act, 1971Development of North-Eastern States

🔹 Key Difference:

  • Zonal Councils are advisory and promote coordination, while the Inter-State Council has a broader mandate on constitutional & legal matters.

Previous Year Question Analysis

Q. (2013) Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

  1. National Development Council (NDC)
  2. Planning Commission
  3. Zonal Councils

Options:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Zonal Councils are statutory bodies (not constitutional).
  • NDC & Planning Commission were executive bodies (dissolved now).

Conclusion

🔹 Zonal Councils play a crucial role in cooperative federalism by promoting inter-state harmony and resolving disputes without judicial intervention.
🔹 For Himachal Pradesh, participation in the Northern Zonal Council is essential for resolving water-sharing disputes, tourism policies, and infrastructure development.
🔹 Exam Tip: Expect questions on their structure, function, and comparison with the Inter-State Council.


2. Ensuring Electoral Integrity: The Controversy Over Election Commission Appointments – Polity

Why in News?

  • India, as the world’s largest democracy, relies on the Election Commission of India (ECI) to conduct free and fair elections.
  • However, concerns over the appointment process of Election Commissioners (ECs) have led to demands for greater transparency and independence in the system.
  • The 2023 legislation on EC appointments has sparked debate, with critics arguing that it increases executive influence over the ECI.

Background: Election Commission of India (ECI)

  • Established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution.
  • Responsible for conducting elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice President.
  • Ensures elections are free, fair, and impartial.

Composition of the ECI

  • Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
  • Two Election Commissioners (ECs) (since 1993).
  • The President of India appoints the CEC and ECs based on government recommendations.

Controversy Over Appointment Process

1. Lack of Transparency & Executive Control

  • The CEC & ECs are appointed by the President on the advice of the government, giving the ruling party significant influence.
  • No collegium system or bipartisan mechanism exists to ensure impartiality.

2. Role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

  • Groups like Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Internet Freedom Foundation have pushed for electoral reforms.
  • ADR petitioned the Supreme Court in 2015, challenging the government’s unilateral control over EC appointments.

3. Supreme Court’s 2023 Ruling on Appointments

  • In March 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that:
    • The CEC & ECs should be appointed by a collegium comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
    • This aimed to reduce executive dominance and ensure independent appointments.
  • However, this ruling was short-lived due to new legislation introduced by the government.

4. The 2023 Act: A Shift in Appointment Mechanism

Key Provisions of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023:
  • Removes the CJI from the Selection Committee.
  • New Selection Committee:
    • Prime Minister (Chairperson).
    • Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha.
    • A Union Cabinet Minister (nominated by the PM).
  • Critics argue that replacing the CJI with a Union Minister gives the ruling party greater control over appointments, reducing the independence of the ECI.

5. Legal and Political Reactions

  • Judicial Review (2024):
    • The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the 2023 Act.
    • Concerns raised that the new law allows the ruling party to influence electoral outcomes by appointing favorable Election Commissioners.
  • Opposition & Civil Society Criticism:
    • The Act weakens democratic institutions by allowing the government to control the election process.
    • Demands for a neutral, bipartisan appointment system based on global best practices.

Why is the Independence of the Election Commission Important?

  • The Election Commission safeguards democracy by ensuring impartial elections.
  • If the appointment process is politically influenced, the neutrality of elections may be compromised, eroding public trust.
  • A strong and independent ECI is crucial for maintaining the credibility of India’s electoral process.

Global Best Practices: How Election Commissioners are Appointed Worldwide

CountryAppointment Process
USAFederal Election Commissioners are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Bipartisan balance is maintained.
UKElection Commissioners are appointed by a cross-party parliamentary committee.
CanadaThe Chief Electoral Officer is appointed through a parliamentary resolution, ensuring neutrality.
South AfricaA multi-party parliamentary committee selects Election Commission members.

🔹 What India Can Learn: A collegium-based or bipartisan parliamentary appointment system can ensure greater independence and transparency in the ECI.

Exam Relevance (Himachal Pradesh Administrative Services)

1. Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2)

  • Appointment of constitutional bodies (Election Commission).
  • Separation of powers & checks and balances.
  • Judicial review and electoral reforms.

2. Current Affairs & Indian Democracy

  • Role of civil society in electoral reforms.
  • Comparisons with global electoral systems.
  • Impact on free and fair elections in India.

Conclusion: The Need for Electoral Reforms

  • The controversy over the 2023 Act highlights the need for a more independent and transparent appointment process.
  • The Supreme Court’s review of the Act will determine its constitutionality and impact on democratic governance.
  • India could adopt a bipartisan or collegium-based model to strengthen the credibility of the Election Commission and enhance public confidence in elections.

Possible Exam Questions

  • Mains:
    • “Discuss the significance of an independent Election Commission in ensuring free and fair elections. How does the 2023 Act impact this independence?”
    • “Examine the challenges in the appointment process of Election Commissioners in India. Suggest reforms to ensure greater transparency and neutrality.”
  • Prelims:
    • Q. Which article of the Indian Constitution provides for the Election Commission of India?
      • (a) Article 320
      • (b) Article 321
      • (c) Article 324
      • (d) Article 326

Answer: (c) Article 324


3. Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site, Odisha – History & Culture

Why in News?

  • On December 1, 2024, a collaborative excavation project began in Jajpur, Odisha.
  • This excavation aims to uncover more details about Ratnagiri, a major Buddhist heritage site that played a key role in Vajrayana Buddhism.
  • Ratnagiri is part of the “Diamond Triangle” of Odisha, along with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri.
  • The site was first reported in 1906, and major excavations took place between 1958 and 1961 under Debala Mitra.

Historical Significance

  • Ratnagiri was a Vajrayana Buddhist center from the 5th to the 13th century AD.
  • The site was known as ‘Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Arya Bhikshu Sangha’, as per inscriptions found there.
  • It housed Buddhist monks, monasteries, stupas, and sculptures, indicating its importance as a religious and educational hub.

Key Features of Ratnagiri Buddhist Site

1. Largest Buddha Head

  • A 1.4-meter-tall Buddha head, crafted from Khondalite stone, is a significant artistic relic.
  • Features intricate carvings showcasing the Gupta and Pala art styles.

2. Monolithic Elephant Sculpture

  • Part of an ancient shrine complex, signifying Buddhist artistic traditions.

3. Votive Stupas

  • Hundreds of small stupas, used for spiritual offerings and prayers.
  • Reflect Vajrayana Buddhist traditions, where devotees placed relics and offerings in these stupas.

4. Sanskrit Inscriptions

  • Found in Kutila script, these inscriptions provide insights into:
    • Buddhist monastic teachings.
    • Religious rituals and practices.
    • Names of monks and patrons who contributed to Buddhist centers.

5. Stone Tablets & Masonry Structures

  • Indicate the existence of large, well-organized monastic settlements.
  • Suggest Ratnagiri was a thriving center of Buddhist learning.

6. Representations of Buddhist Deities

  • Includes:
    • Five Dhyani Buddhas – Amoghasiddhi, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya, Amitabha.
    • Female Buddhist deities – Tara, Marici, Padmapani, and Cunda.
  • These reflect the strong Vajrayana Buddhist influence at the site.

7. Local Artefacts & Cultural Influence

  • Items from the site have been repurposed in local villages for:
    • Decorations.
    • Tulsi bases (used in Hindu households for sacred plants).
    • Construction materials.
  • This highlights the cultural continuity and local adaptation of Buddhist heritage.

Ratnagiri and the “Diamond Triangle” of Odisha

Ratnagiri is part of the Diamond Triangle, which includes:

SiteSignificance
RatnagiriMajor Vajrayana Buddhist center, home to monasteries, stupas, and sculptures.
UdayagiriContains large monasteries and stupas, with evidence of Mahayanic and Vajrayanic traditions.
LalitgiriOne of the oldest Buddhist sites in Odisha, associated with Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism.

Significance of the Diamond Triangle

  • Shows the flourishing Buddhist culture in Eastern India.
  • Indicates Odisha’s role as a major Buddhist learning center, alongside Bihar (Nalanda, Vikramshila).
  • Strong influence on Southeast Asian Buddhism, as Indian monks traveled to countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Why is Ratnagiri Important for India’s Buddhist Heritage?

  • Key center for Vajrayana Buddhism – This sect emphasized tantric practices, rituals, and deity worship.
  • Artistic & architectural marvel – The site displays Gupta, Pala, and post-Pala styles of Buddhist art.
  • Monastic education hub – Like Nalanda and Vikramshila, Ratnagiri was a major learning center.
  • Odisha’s Buddhist legacy – Showcases India’s deep Buddhist heritage beyond Bihar (Bodh Gaya, Nalanda).
  • Influence on international Buddhism – Many Buddhist monks from Odisha traveled to Southeast Asia.

Relevance for Exam

1. History & Culture (GS Paper 1 & Prelims)

  • Buddhist sites in India (Ratnagiri, Nalanda, Sarnath, Bodh Gaya).
  • Gupta & Pala art styles in Buddhist sculpture.
  • Vajrayana Buddhism (concepts, deities, practices).

2. Indian Heritage & Art

  • Influence of Buddhism on Indian architecture.
  • Cultural exchanges between India and Southeast Asia.

3. Tourism & Conservation (GS Paper 3)

  • Ratnagiri’s potential as a Buddhist tourism site.
  • Preservation of ancient monuments & heritage conservation.

Conclusion: Why Ratnagiri Matters Today

🔹 Ratnagiri represents India’s Buddhist legacy and its impact on art, architecture, and religion.
🔹 It highlights the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and its global connections through Buddhism.
🔹 Ongoing excavations may uncover new insights into monastic life, trade, and spiritual traditions in ancient India.
🔹 Conservation and promotion of such heritage sites can boost tourism and cultural awareness.

Possible Exam Questions

Mains

  1. “Discuss the historical and cultural significance of the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Odisha. How does it contribute to our understanding of Vajrayana Buddhism?”
  2. “Examine the role of Odisha’s ‘Diamond Triangle’ in the spread of Buddhism. How did these sites influence Buddhist traditions in India and abroad?”

Prelims (MCQs)

Q. Which of the following Buddhist sites is NOT part of Odisha’s “Diamond Triangle”?
(a) Ratnagiri
(b) Udayagiri
(c) Vikramshila
(d) Lalitgiri

Answer: (c) Vikramshila (It is in Bihar).


4. Soliga Tribes of BRT Tiger Reserve – Environment

Why in News?

  • The Prime Minister of India recently praised the Soliga tribal community in the 119th edition of Mann Ki Baat for their role in tiger conservation.
  • The Soliga tribe, indigenous to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, was the first tribal group to gain forest rights in a tiger reserve (BRT Tiger Reserve) in 2011.
  • Their sustainable forest practices highlight the role of indigenous knowledge in biodiversity conservation.

Who are the Soliga Tribes?

  • Ethnic Group: Indigenous Dravidian-speaking tribe.
  • Location:
    • Primarily found in the Biligiri Rangana Hills (BRT Tiger Reserve) and Male Mahadeshwara Hills in Karnataka & Tamil Nadu.
    • Reside in forests and hilly terrains.
  • Name Meaning:Soliga” means “children of bamboo”, reflecting their deep connection with nature.

Key Features of the Soliga Tribe

1. Language

  • Primary Language: Sholaga, a Dravidian dialect.
  • Also speak Kannada and Tamil.

2. Housing

  • Single-room huts made from bamboo and mud.
  • Built in harmony with the forest, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

3. Economy & Livelihood

  • Traditionally practiced shifting cultivation (now restricted in tiger reserves).
  • Depend on minor forest produce (MFP) such as:
    • Honey (key part of their diet & trade).
    • Medicinal plants & herbs.
    • Bamboo-based products.
  • Famous for making ‘jottai’ (leaf cups) and other eco-friendly utility products.

4. Religion & Cultural Beliefs

  • Follow Hindu customs, but also practice:
    • Naturism – worship elements of nature.
    • Animism – believe that spirits reside in natural elements like trees, rivers, and mountains.
  • Deities: Worship local forest deities, including Madeshwara, Rangaswamy, and Karayya.

Soliga Tribes & Forest Rights in BRT Tiger Reserve

1. Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve

  • Located in Karnataka, part of the Western Ghats.
  • Declared a tiger reserve in 2011.
  • Home to tigers, elephants, and diverse flora & fauna.

2. First Tribal Community to Get Forest Rights in a Tiger Reserve

  • Under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, the Soliga were granted land & resource rights inside the BRT Tiger Reserve.
  • Significance:
    • First case in India where tribals retained rights inside a tiger reserve.
    • Proved that tiger conservation & tribal rights can coexist.
    • Set a precedent for other tribal communities fighting for forest rights.

3. Contribution to Tiger Conservation

  • Traditionally follow sustainable forest management.
  • Monitor tiger movement and report illegal poaching activities.
  • Maintain sacred groves that act as biodiversity hotspots.
  • Participate in eco-tourism and sustainable honey collection programs.

Significance of the Soliga Tribe

1. Conservation & Sustainability

  • Show how humans & wildlife can coexist without harming biodiversity.
  • Sustainable honey collection & forest produce harvesting help maintain ecological balance.

2. Indigenous Knowledge & Climate Resilience

  • Their traditional ecological knowledge helps in:
    • Forest fire management.
    • Water conservation.
    • Medicinal plant use.

3. Social & Political Importance

  • Their legal victory under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, inspired other forest-dwelling communities in India.
  • Raise awareness about the rights of tribals inside protected areas.

Challenges Faced by the Soliga Tribe

ChallengesDetails
Loss of Traditional LandGovernment restrictions on shifting cultivation limit their agricultural practices.
Human-Wildlife ConflictLiving in a tiger reserve leads to conflicts with animals like elephants and tigers.
Limited Livelihood OpportunitiesRestrictions on forest product collection affect their economic independence.
Integration with Modern EconomyStruggle to adapt to new economic models without losing their cultural identity.

Relevance for Exam

1. Tribal Studies & Social Issues (GS Paper 1 & 2)

  • Comparison with Himachal Tribes (e.g., Gaddi, Gujjar, Lahauli, Kinnaura).
  • Forest Rights Act, 2006 and its impact on indigenous communities.

2. Environment & Conservation (GS Paper 3)

  • Role of tribes in biodiversity conservation.
  • Human-wildlife conflict in protected areas.

3. Current Affairs & Governance

  • Recognition of tribal rights in tiger reserves.
  • Impact of government policies on indigenous communities.

Conclusion: Why the Soliga Story Matters

  • Prove that tribal communities can help in conservation rather than harm wildlife.
  • Set a precedent for indigenous rights in protected areas.
  • Offer valuable lessons for sustainable development & forest management.
  • Need policies that balance conservation goals with tribal rights.

Possible Exam Questions

Mains

  1. “Discuss the role of indigenous communities in environmental conservation with reference to the Soliga tribe of Karnataka.”
  2. “Examine the impact of the Forest Rights Act (2006) on tribal communities living in protected areas. How does the case of the Soliga tribe set a precedent?”

Prelims (MCQs)

Q. The Soliga tribe, recently in the news, is primarily found in which Indian state?
(a) Himachal Pradesh
(b) Arunachal Pradesh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Madhya Pradesh

Answer: (c) Karnataka


5. Extended Reality (XR) – Science and Technology

Why in News?

  • The XR Creator Hackathon is being organized by Wavelaps in collaboration with the WAVES 2025 initiative of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
  • This event highlights the growing importance of Extended Reality (XR) in media and entertainment.
  • WAVES 2025 aims to make India a global leader in content creation and immersive technologies.

What is Extended Reality (XR)?

Extended Reality (XR) is an umbrella term that includes:

  • Augmented Reality (AR)
  • Virtual Reality (VR)
  • Mixed Reality (MR)

XR blends physical and digital environments, creating immersive experiences in entertainment, education, healthcare, and more.

Types of Extended Reality (XR) Technologies

1. Augmented Reality (AR)

  • Definition: Enhances the real world by overlaying digital elements (images, text, animations) on it.
  • Devices Used: AR glasses, smartphones, tablets.
  • Examples:
    • Pokémon GO (game overlaying digital creatures on real-world locations).
    • Google Lens (scans objects & provides information).
    • Snapchat & Instagram Filters (add effects to real-time videos).
  • Applications:
    • Education – AR apps for interactive learning.
    • Retail – Virtual try-ons (e.g., Lenskart’s 3D try-on).
    • Navigation – Google Maps AR directions.

2. Virtual Reality (VR)

  • Definition: Creates a completely simulated environment, cutting off the real world.
  • Devices Used: VR headsets (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, PlayStation VR).
  • Examples:
    • Meta’s Metaverse – Virtual social & work environments.
    • VR Gaming – PlayStation VR, Oculus Quest games.
    • Medical Training Simulations – Virtual surgeries for doctors.
  • Applications:
    • Entertainment & Gaming – Immersive video games & 360° videos.
    • Healthcare – Pain management & therapy using VR.
    • Military Training – VR-based combat simulations.

3. Mixed Reality (MR)

  • Definition: Merges real and digital objects, allowing real-time interaction.
  • Devices Used: HoloLens, Magic Leap headsets.
  • Examples:
    • Microsoft HoloLens – Interacting with 3D holograms.
    • Remote Surgery Assistance – Doctors using MR for precision.
    • Product Design & Manufacturing – Engineers visualizing 3D models.
  • Applications:
    • Healthcare – MR-assisted surgeries.
    • Engineering & Architecture – Designing buildings in real-time.
    • Corporate Training – Interactive MR training sessions.

WAVES 2025 Initiative

  • Launched by: Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
  • Objective: To promote innovation & collaboration in India’s media & entertainment sector using XR technologies.
  • Significance:
    • Encourages content creators to use XR.
    • Boosts India’s global position in digital entertainment.
    • Creates jobs in AR/VR development & gaming industry.

Why is XR Important for India?

1. Boost to Digital Economy & Startups

  • India has a fast-growing tech ecosystem, and XR startups are on the rise.
  • AR/VR applications are increasing in ed-tech, healthcare, and e-commerce.

2. Enhancing Education & Training

  • Virtual classrooms can provide interactive learning experiences.
  • Skill development programs using XR can bridge the digital divide.

3. Revolutionizing Healthcare

  • VR-assisted surgeries improve medical precision.
  • Therapy & rehabilitation using immersive experiences.

4. Tourism & Cultural Heritage

  • AR/VR can create virtual tours of historical sites (e.g., Hampi in Karnataka).
  • Promotes digital tourism in India’s heritage sector.

Challenges in XR Adoption in India

ChallengesDetails
High Cost of DevicesVR headsets & AR glasses are expensive, limiting accessibility.
Technical LimitationsRequires high-speed internet & powerful computing devices.
Lack of AwarenessMany industries have not yet adopted XR due to lack of knowledge.
Privacy & Security IssuesCollecting user data through XR can pose cybersecurity risks.
Limited Indian XR ContentMost AR/VR content is from foreign developers. Need more Indian-based applications.

Government Initiatives & Policies Supporting XR

1. Digital India Programme

  • Encourages technological innovations like AR/VR adoption.

2. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

  • Focuses on technology-driven education, where XR can play a role in virtual learning environments.

3. Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)

  • Supports XR startups and innovation in gaming, animation, and digital content.

4. Startup India & Make in India

  • Encourages Indian companies to develop XR hardware & software.

Relevance for Exam

1. Science & Technology (GS Paper 3 & Prelims)

  • Emerging technologies (AR, VR, MR).
  • Digital transformation in education & healthcare.
  • Government initiatives promoting innovation (WAVES 2025, Digital India).

2. Economy & Industry (GS Paper 3)

  • Impact of XR on India’s digital economy.
  • Growth of India’s gaming & entertainment industry.

3. Governance & Policy (GS Paper 2)

  • Role of government in promoting new technology.
  • Challenges in implementing XR in rural areas.

Conclusion: Why XR Matters for India’s Future?

  • XR is transforming industries like education, healthcare, entertainment, and tourism.
  • The WAVES 2025 initiative shows India’s commitment to XR innovation.
  • India needs to develop its own XR content & reduce dependency on foreign tech.
  • Overcoming cost & infrastructure challenges will be key to XR adoption in rural India.

Possible Exam Questions

Mains (Science & Tech)

  1. “Discuss the significance of Extended Reality (XR) technologies in India’s digital economy. What steps should the government take to promote their adoption?”
  2. “How can Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) transform education and healthcare in India? Discuss with examples.”

Prelims (MCQs)

Q. Extended Reality (XR) includes which of the following technologies?

  1. Augmented Reality (AR)
  2. Virtual Reality (VR)
  3. Mixed Reality (MR)

Select the correct option:
(a) 1 & 2 only
(b) 2 & 3 only
(c) 1 & 3 only
(d) 1, 2 & 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 & 3