28th June 2025 – Current Affairs

1.Human-Tiger Conflict Management Scheme (2025) – Environment

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched a pilot scheme titled “Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves” with an outlay of ₹88 crore (until 2026–27). The scheme is designed to manage increasing human-tiger conflicts in areas outside designated tiger reserves, where tiger presence is growing.

Key Features of the Scheme

Core Objectives

1. Monitoring & Technology Use
   • Deployment of camera traps, drones, and GPS-based collaring.
   • Real-time tracking of tiger movement in human-dominated landscapes.
2. Capacity Building
   • Training forest officials in conflict resolution, rescue operations, and community engagement.
3. Civil Society Collaboration
   • Partnerships with NGOs, local communities, and veterinarians for rapid response and awareness.
4. Ecological Support
   • Prey base augmentation in buffer zones to reduce livestock predation and tiger movement toward villages.

Why This Scheme Is Needed

Rising Human-Tiger Conflicts

• 382 human deaths due to tiger-related incidents (2020–2024).
• Conflict increasing outside reserves, where tigers are:
  • Expanding into sugarcane fields, forest fringes, and agrarian areas.
  • Displacing other predators, increasing wildlife stress on human spaces.

Major Conflict Hotspots:

• Chandrapur (Maharashtra) – Near Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
• Dudhwa–Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh) – Sugarcane belts
• Ranthambore peripheries (Rajasthan)
• Wayanad (Kerala) – Fragmented human-forest interface

Institutional Backing

• National CAMPA Fund:
  • Originally used for compensatory afforestation.
  • Now increasingly allocated for wildlife conservation, including:
    • Great Indian Bustard Recovery Program
    • Project Cheetah
    • Now, the Tiger Conflict Mitigation Pilot Scheme
• National Board for Wildlife (NBWL):
  • Discussions held in March 2025 to formalize strategy.
  • Focus on integrated conflict mitigation, not just physical relocation.

Conservation Impact

• Strengthens “coexistence model” between tigers and local communities.
• Promotes landscape-level conservation, moving beyond the limits of Protected Areas (PAs).
• Enhances India’s capacity to manage tiger corridors, buffer zones, and human settlements in harmony.

Summary

The new pilot scheme to manage tigers outside tiger reserves marks a proactive shift in India’s conservation strategy, addressing one of the most complex challenges in wildlife management—human-wildlife conflict. With focused funding, tech-enabled monitoring, and community collaboration, the scheme aims to balance tiger conservation with rural livelihoods, ensuring safe coexistence.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The newly launched scheme to address human-tiger conflict is supported by which fund?
A. Green India Fund
B. CAMPA Fund
C. Wildlife Habitat Fund
D. Biodiversity Mitigation Fund
Answer: B. CAMPA Fund

2. The “Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves” pilot scheme is implemented under the supervision of:
A. Ministry of Agriculture
B. National Biodiversity Authority
C. Chief Wildlife Wardens and NTCA
D. Central Zoo Authority
Answer: C. Chief Wildlife Wardens and NTCA

3. Which of the following is not a tiger conflict hotspot in India?
A. Chandrapur
B. Wayanad
C. Bhuj
D. Dudhwa-Pilibhit
Answer: C. Bhuj

Mains

1. Human-wildlife conflict is a growing concern in India’s conservation landscape. Evaluate the significance of the new pilot scheme for managing tigers outside reserves.

2. Discuss the role of institutional frameworks like NTCA and CAMPA in addressing human-animal conflicts. How can community participation improve conflict mitigation?

3. With increasing tiger populations, ensuring coexistence outside reserves is a challenge. Suggest a multidimensional strategy to balance conservation and human safety.

2. Zero-Dose Children and India’s Immunization Challenge – Indian Society

Why in News?

Despite significant progress in reducing the number of zero-dose children (those who have not received even a single dose of the DTP vaccine), India still ranks second globally in absolute numbers. In 2023, 1.44 million children remained unvaccinated, raising concerns about equity, access, and public health delivery.

Progress in Numbers

India has reduced zero-dose prevalence from 33.4% in 1992 to 6.2% in 2023, yet large birth numbers (~23 million/year) mean absolute unvaccinated numbers remain high.

Who Are Zero-Dose Children?

• Children who haven’t received even the first dose of the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine.
• A global health indicator for measuring the reach and inclusiveness of immunization programs.
• Signifies communities with systemic barriers to healthcare access.

Geographic Hotspots in India

States with highest concentration of zero-dose children:

• Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat
• Northeastern states: Nagaland, Meghalaya

Example:

• Nagaland: 57.8% full immunization coverage
• Tamil Nadu: 89.8% coverage

Highlights stark regional disparities.

Barriers to Full Immunization

Global and National Context

• Globally, zero-dose children decreased by 75% since 1980.
• India still has the second-largest number in absolute terms despite being a global vaccine leader.
• Vaccination is crucial to prevent outbreaks of measles, diphtheria, polio, and other preventable diseases.

Solutions and Way Forward

1. Community-Level Interventions
   • ASHA workers, anganwadi centres, and local health volunteers must be empowered.
   • Tailored campaigns for migrant and tribal populations.
2. Strengthening Monitoring Systems
   • Utilize digital health tools for real-time tracking.
   • Integrate data with Aadhaar-linked birth registries for better targeting.
3. Focus on Women’s Education & Awareness
   • Increase literacy among mothers, promote vaccine literacy.
4. Incentivize Vaccination
   • Link routine immunization to welfare schemes, like PMMVY, nutrition programs, etc.
5. Immunization Agenda 2030
   • India must prioritize this WHO-led global initiative.
   • Goals: 90% coverage for essential vaccines by 2030.

Summary

India’s battle against zero-dose children is a story of progress with persisting inequities. While vaccination rates have improved dramatically over three decades, absolute numbers remain high due to population growth and uneven access. Addressing the issue requires a multi-pronged approach—from grassroots engagement and digital tracking to maternal education and health system strengthening. Prioritizing the Immunization Agenda 2030 is critical to ensuring universal child health and long-term national development.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Who are referred to as “zero-dose children”?
A. Children who missed their polio drops
B. Children not enrolled in school
C. Children who haven’t received even the first dose of DTP vaccine
D. Children without birth certificates
Answer: C. Children who haven’t received even the first dose of DTP vaccine

2. Which of the following states had one of the lowest immunization coverage rates, as per NFHS-5?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Nagaland
C. Kerala
D. Haryana
Answer: B. Nagaland

Q3. The Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) is led by:
A.UNICEF
B. WHO
C. UNDP
D. World Bank
Answer: B. WHO

Mains

1. Despite being a global leader in vaccine production, India still has one of the highest numbers of zero-dose children. Discuss the causes and suggest measures to ensure equitable vaccine access.

2. How can targeted interventions help reduce immunization gaps in tribal and urban slum areas? Suggest strategies for improving India’s routine immunization system.

3. Examine the role of digital health monitoring systems in strengthening public health infrastructure, especially in immunization coverage.

3. Understanding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) – Science & Technology

Why in News?

Recent studies have identified nearly 20 bacterial species capable of degrading PFAS, commonly known as “Forever Chemicals”, offering promising solutions to one of the most persistent forms of environmental contamination.

What are PFAS?

Developed in the 1950s, PFAS are used widely for their water, grease, and heat resistance.

Where Are PFAS Found?

Common Uses:

• Non-stick cookware (Teflon pans)
• Water-repellent fabrics (raincoats)
• Food packaging (e.g., pizza boxes, popcorn bags)
• Firefighting foams
• Industrial coatings and paints

Routes of Human Exposure:

• Drinking contaminated water
• Consuming fish or food from polluted areas
• Inhalation of contaminated dust or air
• Use of household products containing PFAS

Health Impacts of PFAS Exposure

Bioremediation Breakthrough

• Researchers have discovered 20 bacteria species that can break down PFAS.
• Represents a significant step in sustainable cleanup methods for:
  • Contaminated soil and water
  • Industrial sites
• Focus is on breaking the carbon-fluorine bond, previously thought to be biologically indestructible.

Global Regulatory Framework

Stockholm Convention on POPs:

• International treaty to eliminate or restrict Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).
• PFOS and PFOA (two key PFAS compounds) are listed under the convention.
• India is a signatory, but implementation and monitoring remain a challenge.

Other Global Steps:

• US EPA: Set limits for PFAS in drinking water.
• EU REACH Regulation: Moving towards complete phase-out of PFAS in consumer products.

India’s Context

• Limited monitoring infrastructure for PFAS contamination.
• Detected in water bodies near industrial zones.
• Growing relevance with India’s increasing manufacturing footprint in chemicals and textiles.
• Policy gap exists in regulating PFAS as hazardous substances.

Summary

PFAS or “Forever Chemicals” pose one of the most complex environmental and health challenges of the 21st century due to their persistence and widespread use. The discovery of bacteria capable of degrading PFAS marks a breakthrough in bioremediation, offering hope for cleaner ecosystems. However, stronger regulatory mechanisms, public awareness, and industrial accountability are needed—especially in India—to prevent further contamination.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Why are PFAS chemicals referred to as “Forever Chemicals”?
A. They are derived from ancient fossil fuels
B. They are highly biodegradable
C. They persist in the environment for long periods without breaking down
D. They are naturally occurring in water sources
Answer: C. They persist in the environment for long periods without breaking down

2. Which of the following PFAS compounds are listed under the Stockholm Convention?
A. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
B. Methyl isocyanate
C. DDT
D. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
Answer: A. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)

3. What is the primary health risk associated with PFAS exposure?
A. Vitamin deficiency
B. Skin pigmentation
C. Hormonal disruption and cancer risk
D. Scurvy
Answer: C. Hormonal disruption and cancer risk

Mains

1. What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), and why are they called “forever chemicals”? Discuss their environmental and health impacts and suggest bioremediation strategies.

2. Examine India’s preparedness in monitoring and regulating emerging pollutants like PFAS. What reforms are necessary to address chemical pollution in India’s industrial zones?

3. Bioremediation is emerging as a sustainable alternative to chemical clean-ups. In light of recent discoveries related to PFAS-degrading bacteria, discuss the potential and limitations of bioremediation in environmental governance.

4. India’s Human Spaceflight Era – From Axiom-4 to Gaganyaan – Science & Technology

Why in News?

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s participation in the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) marks a historic milestone for India—signifying the beginning of its human spaceflight journey and setting the stage for the ambitious Gaganyaan mission, expected by 2027.

Key Highlights

Strategic Significance for India

1. Operational Learnings for ISRO

• Real-time exposure to:
  • Launch logistics
  • Astronaut life-support protocols
  • Emergency procedures
  • Pre/post-flight medical training
• Helps in refining ISRO’s human-rating systems for Gaganyaan.

2. Strengthens Gaganyaan Roadmap

• Gaganyaan: India’s first indigenous human spaceflight mission.
  • Target: Send three astronauts to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) (~400 km) for 3–7 days.
  • Timeline: 2027
  • Includes: Uncrewed test flights, space capsule recovery missions, and crew selection/training

3. Boosts India’s Strategic Autonomy

• India will become the fourth country (after USA, Russia, China) with independent human spaceflight capability.
• Enhances strategic leverage in space diplomacy and multilateral missions.

Global Collaborations & Space Diplomacy

• India is also pushing to host a South Asian training hub for space personnel.
• Participation in forums like the Artemis Accords and Quad Space Working Group boosts India’s voice in space governance.

Technological & Institutional Advancements

• ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre (HSFC): Coordinates astronaut selection, training, and life support systems.
• Indigenous Infrastructure in Development:
  • Indian astronaut training facility
  • Human-rated launch vehicle (GSLV Mk-III)
  • Recovery systems for space capsule retrieval
• Aiming to build a modular Indian space station by 2035 and send astronauts to the Moon by 2040.

Broader Implications

Summary

Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission is more than symbolic—it’s a functional rehearsal for India’s space ambitions. As India transitions toward human spaceflight, planetary missions, and eventually a national space station, it is cementing its place in the global space order. This represents a transformational shift in ISRO’s vision—from Earth observation and launches to strategic deep-space human exploration.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Axiom-4 mission, in which an Indian astronaut participated, was launched using which spacecraft?
A. Soyuz TMA
B. Gaganyaan
C. Crew Dragon
D. Orion
Answer: C. Crew Dragon

2. India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, is expected to launch in:
A. 2024
B. 2025
C. 2026
D. 2027
Answer: D. 2027

3. Which of the following countries currently possess independent human spaceflight capability?
A. USA, China, Russia, India
B. USA, China, Russia
C. USA, India, Russia
D. USA, France, Russia
Answer: B. USA, China, Russia

Mains

1. Discuss the strategic and technological significance of India’s participation in international human spaceflight missions like Axiom-4. How does this align with India’s Gaganyaan ambitions?

2. India aims to evolve from a space-faring nation to a space power. In this context, analyze the role of human spaceflight in advancing India’s geopolitical and economic interests.

3. Evaluate the challenges and opportunities for India in building a self-reliant ecosystem for human space exploration.

5. Substandard Cancer Drugs – A Global Health Crisis – Science & Technology

Why in News?

A global investigation has revealed that essential chemotherapy drugs used in over 100 countries are failing quality standards, with 17 flagged manufacturers (mainly from India) producing substandard or unsafe medicines, posing life-threatening risks to cancer patients.

Key Findings of the Investigation

Overview of Chemotherapy Drugs Affected

Under-dosing risks treatment failure.
Over-dosing causes severe toxicity, organ damage, and fatal side effects.

India’s Role in the Global Drug Supply Chain

India supplies over 60% of global vaccines and 20% of generic medicines.

• Major supplier of affordable oncology drugs to developing nations.
• Lapses in drug quality risk:
  • Public health crises
  • Loss of credibility of India’s pharmaceutical exports
  • Trade sanctions or bans from importing countries

Implications for Public Health

Regulatory and Policy Issues

Weaknesses in Oversight:

• Insufficient random sampling of exported batches
• Inadequate GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) enforcement
• Poor post-market surveillance, especially for exported generics

Urgent Reforms Needed:

• Empower Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) with stricter compliance tools
• Establish centralized digital tracking of batches and quality audit logs
• Implement whistleblower protections and incentives in pharma industry
• Strengthen international regulatory cooperation for transparency in exports

Summary

The exposure of substandard cancer drugs, many manufactured in India, is a global public health red flag. It reflects systemic gaps in quality assurance and regulation, particularly in life-saving medicines like chemotherapy agents. India, as a global pharmaceutical leader, must urgently reform its drug oversight systems, not only to protect lives but also to safeguard its credibility as the “pharmacy of the world.”

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Doxorubicin, also known as the “Red Devil,” is primarily used in the treatment of:
A. Malaria
B. Diabetes
C. Cancer
D. Tuberculosis
Answer: C. Cancer

2. Which of the following Indian agencies is responsible for regulating drug safety and standards?
A. FSSAI
B. CDSCO
C. NABH
D. BIRAC
Answer: B. CDSCO

3. Which international convention categorizes medicines like Methotrexate and Cisplatin as essential drugs?
A. Montreal Protocol
B. TRIPS Agreement
C. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
D. Stockholm Convention
Answer: C. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines

Mains

1. Substandard and falsified drugs pose serious challenges to public health and India’s pharmaceutical reputation. Discuss the causes and suggest regulatory reforms to address this issue.

2. Critically examine the role of India’s pharmaceutical industry in the global supply of generic medicines. How can India ensure drug quality without compromising affordability?

3. Life-saving drugs like chemotherapy agents must meet the highest safety standards. Analyze the impact of poor drug quality on public trust and international relations.

6. UN’s Development Conference in Seville (FFD4) – International Relations

Why in News?

Global leaders are convening in Seville, Spain, for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) — held once every decade. The conference seeks to address funding gaps in development, climate finance, and tax reform, especially in the wake of widening global inequality and climate crises.

Key Takeaways

Historical Background

Major Themes of FFD4

1. Global Development Financing

• Aims to fill the $4 trillion annual SDG financing gap (UN estimate).
• Push for innovative funding beyond traditional aid (ODA).

2. Debt Reform Proposals

• Debt-for-climate swaps: Debt relief in exchange for climate action.
• Disaster-linked debt pauses: Automatic suspension of repayments during climate disasters.
• Friction between African nations and large creditors (notably China) on restructuring.

3. Global Tax System Reform

• Goal: Establish fairer global tax rules and reduce corporate tax evasion.
• Pushback from major economies and wealthy interest groups.
• Advocacy for a UN-led global tax body over OECD dominance.

4. Global Solidarity Levies

• Proposal to:
  • Tax ultra-rich individuals.
  • Levy carbon taxes on big polluters.
• Funds to be directed to climate adaptation and poverty reduction in developing countries.

5. Climate Finance Commitments

• Renewed focus on climate-resilient infrastructure, adaptation, and mitigation.
• Demands from Global South for loss and damage compensation.

Barriers to Progress

India’s Role & Relevance

• India advocates for:
  • Global South solidarity
  • Equity in climate finance
  • Recognition of national ownership over development
• Has supported ideas like:
  • Debt sustainability frameworks
  • Taxation of multinationals
• Could emerge as a bridge between developed and developing nations, especially via G20, BRICS, and Voice of Global South Summit platforms.

Summary

The FFD4 Conference in Seville presents a critical opportunity to reshape how the world finances development in a period of rising inequality, climate disasters, and dwindling aid. The proposed Seville Commitment, though non-binding, highlights the urgent need for bold tax reforms, fairer debt systems, and robust climate finance. Without tangible action, the world risks missing the 2030 SDG targets.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims – Possible MCQs

1. The “Seville Commitment” is related to:
A. Maritime trade cooperation
B. Financing for sustainable development
C. AI regulation among UN nations
D. Agricultural subsidy reforms
Answer: B. Financing for sustainable development

Q2. Which of the following conferences introduced the Addis Ababa Action Agenda?
A. COP26
B. Rio+20
C. FFD3
D. WTO Doha Round
Answer: C. FFD3

Q3. The term “debt-for-climate swap” refers to:
A. Cancelling sovereign debt in exchange for military aid
B. Using sovereign funds to purchase carbon credits
C. Exchanging debt relief for investments in climate adaptation
D. Transferring climate tech to repay financial debt
Answer: C. Exchanging debt relief for investments in climate adaptation

Mains

1. The Financing for Development (FFD4) Conference in Seville marks a crucial moment for global development. Discuss the key proposals of the Seville Commitment and their relevance for India and the Global South.

2. Critically examine the need for global tax and debt reforms in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What role can India play in bridging the North-South divide in global financial governance?

3. Discuss the challenges and opportunities of financing climate adaptation in developing nations. How can mechanisms like solidarity levies and debt-for-climate swaps support climate justice?

7. UN80 Initiative – Reforming Multilateralism for a Changing World – International Relations

Why in News?

The UN80 Initiative, recently spotlighted by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Policy and the Chair of the UN80 Task Force, seeks to enhance the relevance, responsiveness, and reform of the United Nations (UN) system as it approaches its 80th anniversary in 2025.

What is the UN80 Initiative?

Key Objectives

• Reinvigorate multilateralism amid rising global fragmentation.
• Ensure the UN is better aligned to current realities: climate crises, digital threats, inequality, and conflict.
• Improve transparency, responsiveness, and efficiency of the UN system.

Structure of the UN80 Initiative

| Thematic Clusters | 7 Clusters led by senior UN leaders:

• Peace and Security
• Humanitarian Action
• Development
• Human Rights
• Training and Research
• Specialized Agencies
• Cross-cutting administration and governance |
  | Task Force | Comprises UN Under-Secretaries and global policy experts |

Contextual Relevance

Why Reform Is Needed Now:

• Erosion of faith in multilateralism (e.g. UN Security Council gridlocks on Ukraine, Gaza).
• Growing multipolarity – rise of China, India, regional blocs.
• Global crises like climate change, AI governance, pandemics, and economic inequalities require collective responses.

India’s Role and Interest:

• India has long demanded UN reforms, especially:
  • Expansion of UNSC (Permanent membership demand).
  • More voice for Global South in global institutions.
• UN80 aligns with India’s G20 Presidency call for “One Earth, One Family, One Future”.

Summary

The UN80 Initiative is a forward-looking effort to reassess and rejuvenate the UN system as it enters its ninth decade. Amidst global skepticism towards international institutions, this initiative aims to modernize multilateralism, streamline mandates, and ensure that the UN remains a credible and effective platform for addressing global challenges. It is an opportunity for member states like India to push for equitable, democratic, and efficient global governance.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The UN80 Initiative was launched to:
A. Expand the United Nations Security Council
B. Evaluate and reform the UN system before its 80th anniversary
C. Address migration challenges in Africa
D. Fund UN peacekeeping operations
Answer: B. Evaluate and reform the UN system before its 80th anniversary

2. Which of the following is not one of the thematic clusters under the UN80 Initiative?
A. Peace and Security
B. Trade and Tariffs
C. Human Rights
D. Development
Answer: B. Trade and Tariffs

3. Which of these does not reflect India’s stance on multilateral reform?
A. Expansion of G7
B. Permanent membership in the UNSC
C. More voice for developing countries
D. Equitable representation in global governance
Answer: A. Expansion of G7

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the UN80 Initiative in the context of global challenges. How can India contribute to and benefit from this multilateral reform process?

2. “Multilateralism is under stress, but not obsolete.” Examine this statement in the light of the UN80 Initiative and the evolving global order.

3. Analyze the structural and functional limitations of the current United Nations system. How can initiatives like UN80 help restore global trust in multilateral governance?

8. Understanding the U.S. Strategy on AI Proliferation – International Relations

Why in News?

The United States has withdrawn its controversial “AI Diffusion Framework”, a proposed export control model that aimed to restrict Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities from reaching adversarial nations. This marks a tactical shift, not a full retreat, as the U.S. now explores more technologically embedded forms of AI control.

What Was the AI Diffusion Framework?

Why It Was Withdrawn

Counterproductive Results

• Allies (like the EU, Japan, South Korea) criticized overreach and started developing independent AI ecosystems.
• Distrust over U.S. unilateralism in setting AI governance norms.
• Shift in global tech leadership risked due to fragmentation of the open innovation model.

What Replaces the Framework?

Technological Enforcement over Diplomatic Control

• U.S. now prefers hardware-based and software-integrated restrictions, including:
  • On-chip monitoring
  • Built-in geolocation restrictions
  • Remote shutdown capabilities

Example: Nvidia AI Chips

• Modified to restrict use in specific countries.
• Equipped with built-in enforcement measures to prevent re-export or dual use.

Concerns with the New Strategy

Global Context & India’s Relevance

Global AI Governance Landscape

• No multilateral regime like the NPT or WTO governs AI.
• Competing models:
  • U.S. – Security-centric, export controls
  • EU – Ethics-first (AI Act)
  • China – State surveillance and strategic dominance

India’s Position

• India favors open-source AI and global cooperation, evident in:
  • IndiaAI Mission
  • Global Partnership on AI (GPAI)
  • Hosting Global South AI summits
• India must navigate between strategic alignment with the West and digital autonomy.

Summary

The withdrawal of the U.S. AI Diffusion Framework signals a shift in approach, not in intent. While the focus moves from formal diplomatic control to embedded technological enforcement, the strategy still revolves around restricting AI access to adversaries. However, this raises crucial questions about privacy, autonomy, innovation freedom, and the future of multilateral AI governance.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The recently withdrawn “AI Diffusion Framework” by the United States aimed to:
A. Promote open-source AI worldwide
B. Develop global AI chip manufacturing hubs
C. Control the spread of advanced AI technologies to adversaries
D. Launch an international AI training program
Answer: C. Control the spread of advanced AI technologies to adversaries

2. Which of the following is not a technological method proposed by the U.S. for controlling AI chip usage?
A. On-chip monitoring
B. Blockchain-based identity tagging
C. Geolocation tracking
D. Remote shutdown
Answer: B. Blockchain-based identity tagging

3. India’s AI governance vision is based on:
A. Military applications
B. Export control
C. Open-source and inclusive development
D. Full privatization of AI research
Answer: C. Open-source and inclusive development

Mains

1. The shift from diplomatic to technological enforcement in managing AI proliferation reflects evolving strategic concerns. Discuss the implications of this transition with reference to global digital governance.

2. Critically evaluate the impact of unilateral AI export controls on international cooperation and innovation. How should countries like India respond to such evolving regulatory architectures?

3. Compare and contrast the AI governance frameworks of the United States, European Union, and China. What should be India’s approach to balancing innovation and regulation in this global contest?