1.Free Trade Agreements and Indian Agriculture: Prospects and Pitfalls – Economy
Why in News?
- Agricultural exports (2013-14 to 2024-25): Modest growth of 20% (from $43.3 bn to $51.9 bn).
- Agricultural imports: Surged by 148% (from $15.5 bn to $38.5 bn).
- Agricultural trade surplus: Shrunk from $27.7 bn to $13.4 bn.
- India negotiating FTAs with the US, EU, which demand lower tariffs and greater market access.
- Concerns over impact on Indian farmers, rural livelihoods, and food sovereignty.
Key Trends in India’s Agricultural Trade
| Commodity | Exports (2024-25) | Trends/Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Marine Products | $7.4 bn | Decline from $8.1 bn; US tariffs on shrimp a concern |
| Rice (Basmati + Non-Basmati) | Record $12.5 bn | Strong markets: West Asia, Africa |
| Spices | Record high | Growth in chilli, cumin, turmeric; imports of pepper, cardamom rising |
| Tobacco, Coffee, Fruits & Vegetables | Growing | Positive export trends |
| Cotton | Declined; net importer | Major concern: India has become a cotton importer |
| Buffalo Meat | $4 bn | Recovered but below peak |
| Edible Oils & Pulses (Imports) | Pulses: $5.5 bn (record high) | Due to domestic production challenges |
| Natural Rubber (Imports) | Rising | Demand > production |
| Dry Fruits, Wines, Spirits (Imports) | Likely to increase | Under new FTAs |
Key Concerns from FTAs on Indian Agriculture
- Tariff reductions: Could harm small/marginal farmers by increasing competition.
- Market access for GM crops: Raises concerns over biosafety and seed sovereignty.
- Rising imports of sensitive items: Dry fruits, wines, spirits, pulses, edible oils.
- Risk of India becoming an import-dependent market in key commodities.
Opportunities for India
- Access to new markets for basmati rice, spices, processed foods.
- Potential technology transfer and investment in agri-processing.
- Boost to value-added exports and organic/specialty crops.
- Diversification beyond traditional markets.
Summary
India’s agricultural trade balance is under pressure due to rising imports and slow export growth. While FTAs with major economies like the US and EU offer market access opportunities, they also pose risks to Indian farmers, especially in sensitive sectors like pulses, edible oils, and marine products. Strategic negotiation, robust safeguards, and investment in domestic production are crucial for India to benefit from FTAs without jeopardizing farm incomes and rural livelihoods.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements:
1.India is a net exporter of marine products but a net importer of cotton.
2.The US is India’s largest market for marine product exports.
3.India’s exports of basmati and non-basmati rice have stagnated in recent years.
4.India imports significant quantities of pulses due to production challenges.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1, 2, and 4
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D.All of the above
Answer: A. 1, 2, and 4
2. Which of the following are likely to increase under India’s FTAs with the US and EU?
A. Imports of dry fruits, wines, and genetically modified crops
B. Exports of basmati rice and marine products
C. Exports of cotton and sugar
D. None of the above
Answer: A. Imports of dry fruits, wines, and genetically modified crops
Mains
1.Discuss the impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) on India’s agricultural sector, highlighting the challenges faced by Indian farmers. Suggest a strategy to balance trade liberalization with domestic agricultural interests. (250 words)
2.Examine the trends in India’s agricultural trade over the past decade, focusing on key export and import commodities. What lessons can India learn to strengthen its agricultural trade competitiveness? (250 words)
2.India’s AMCA Stealth Jet Project Approved: A Leap Towards Indigenous Air Power – Defence & Security
Why in News?
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the execution model of the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) programme, marking a major step toward India’s goal of self-reliance in defence.
- The project aims to build an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet—a first for India.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| AMCA Project Goal | Develop a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft |
| Prototypes Planned | 5 prototypes |
| Budget | Over ₹15,000 crore |
| First Delivery | Targeted by 2035 |
| Aircraft Class | Twin-engine, 25-tonne fighter jet |
| Key Features | – Advanced stealth (internal weapons bays, radar absorbent materials) – Super cruise capability (sustained supersonic speeds) – AI-assisted electronic pilot – Integrated Vehicle Health Management (predictive maintenance) |
| Strategic Importance | Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence Enhances India’s position as a global air power |
Global Comparison
| Fighter Jet | Country | Comparison with AMCA |
|---|---|---|
| F-35 Lightning II | USA | Highly advanced but costly; AMCA designed for Indian needs |
| Sukhoi Su-57 | Russia | Comparable stealth features; AMCA aims for a balance of stealth & affordability |
Challenges Ahead
- Engine Development: Major hurdle; India needs a joint venture with a foreign OEM for a next-generation engine with sufficient thrust and stealth.
- Technology Maturity: Ensuring indigenous development of critical avionics, stealth materials, and radar systems.
Strategic Significance of AMCA
- Reduces dependence on foreign aircraft.
- Strengthens India’s aerospace industrial base.
- Enhances combat readiness in a variety of scenarios: air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare.
- Positions India among a select group of nations with fifth-generation stealth capability.
Summary
The AMCA programme is a critical step in India’s journey towards self-reliant defence capabilities. It aims to deliver a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with advanced features like super cruise, internal weapons bays, and AI-assisted systems. The project supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and aims for delivery by 2035. Challenges such as engine development and technology integration remain, but successful execution would position India alongside global military powers with advanced air combat technologies.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements about India’s AMCA project:
1.AMCA is a single-engine, lightweight fighter jet designed for close air support.
2.AMCA will feature super cruise capability, allowing sustained supersonic speeds without afterburners.
3.The AMCA is India’s first attempt to develop a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A.1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C.1 and 3
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3
2.Which of the following features are associated with the AMCA project?
A. AI-assisted electronic pilot
B. Internal weapons bays for reduced radar signature
C. Next-generation engine under joint development
D. All of the above
Answer: D.All of the above
Mains
1.Discuss the strategic significance of India’s AMCA project in the context of self-reliance in defence and national security. What challenges does India face in the successful execution of the project? (250 words)
2.Compare India’s AMCA stealth jet project with global fifth-generation fighter aircraft programmes. What lessons can India learn from the international experience to ensure the success of AMCA? (250 words)
3.India’s New Urban Worry — Rising Overnutrition – Indian Society
Why in News?
- India is facing a public health transition:
From traditional battles against undernutrition and infectious diseases → To an epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). - Recent data from Hyderabad’s IT sector:
84% of employees have Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD). - Highlights the growing burden of obesity and lifestyle diseases in urban India.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Nutrition Crisis | Co-existence of undernutrition in rural areas and overnutrition (obesity) in urban areas. |
| Global Context | In 2019, NCDs accounted for 74% of global deaths. |
| Urban Lifestyle Impact | Sedentary jobs + processed food diets = Rising obesity and related diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease). |
| Public Health Gaps | – Only 16% of hypertensives have controlled BP. – Less than 10% of young diabetics achieve glycaemic control. |
| Regulatory Challenges | – Eat Right India initiative: Limited enforcement. – Resistance from the food industry. |
| Global Best Practices | Example: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 → Calorie labeling, sugar taxes, stronger food regulations. |
| Future Projections | By 2050, nearly 450 million Indians could be overweight or obese. |
The Paradox of Malnutrition in India
- Double burden:
- Rural areas → Undernutrition, stunting, wasting.
- Urban areas → Rising obesity, NCDs like diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease.
- Urbanisation leads to:
- Sedentary lifestyles (desk jobs, reduced physical activity).
- Increased consumption of ultra-processed, high-sugar, high-fat foods.
Challenges in Tackling Urban Overnutrition
- Weak regulatory framework:
- Limited action on sugar taxes, calorie labeling, junk food advertising restrictions.
- Consumer awareness:
- Efforts like Eat Right India lack strong enforcement.
- Industry resistance:
- Pushback against food regulations.
The Way Forward: Lessons for India
- Learn from global models:
- Saudi Arabia: Taxes on sugary drinks, calorie labeling.
- Chile: Warning labels on unhealthy foods.
- Strengthen regulations:
- Calorie counts on menus.
- Taxes on ultra-processed and high-sugar foods.
- Promote preventive health:
- Healthier school meals.
- Public awareness campaigns on balanced diets and physical activity.
- Build a multi-sectoral approach:
- Involve health, urban planning, education, and food industries.
Summary
India’s rising overnutrition crisis, especially in urban areas, marks a worrying shift in public health. While rural India continues to grapple with hunger and undernutrition, urban centers face an explosion of obesity and lifestyle diseases. This is driven by sedentary jobs, processed food consumption, and weak regulations. With projections estimating 450 million Indians could be overweight/obese by 2050, urgent reforms—stronger food regulations, preventive healthcare, and public awareness—are critical to avert a major health crisis.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements:
1.India’s malnutrition crisis is now limited to undernutrition in rural areas.
2.Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for nearly 75% of global deaths.
3.Urbanisation in India has led to a shift towards sedentary lifestyles and increased processed food consumption.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C.1 and 3
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3
2.Which of the following is a correct match regarding public health initiatives?
A.Eat Right India – Food safety awareness campaign
B.Vision 2030 (Saudi Arabia) – A strategy for tackling obesity and non-communicable diseases
C. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) – A lifestyle disease linked to obesity
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Mains
1.India is witnessing a growing health crisis of urban overnutrition and lifestyle diseases. Discuss the factors contributing to this trend and suggest a multi-sectoral strategy to address the challenge. (250 words)
2.The coexistence of undernutrition and overnutrition in India presents a complex public health challenge. Analyze this “double burden of malnutrition” and propose solutions to achieve nutritional equity. (250 words)
4.Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and Its Impact on Indian Monsoon – Geography
Why in News?
- Mumbai received heavy monsoon rains two weeks earlier than expected in May 2025.
- The early monsoon was triggered by a strong Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)—a significant weather system that enhances rainfall in the region.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What is MJO? | A large-scale, moving weather system comprising clouds, winds, rain, and pressure patterns. |
| Movement | Travels eastward around the tropics, completing a full cycle every 30-60 days. |
| Discovery | Identified in the 1970s by Roland Madden and Paul Julian. |
| Phases | – Enhanced Convective Phase → Heavy rain, storms, cloudiness. – Suppressed Convective Phase → Dry, clear weather. |
| Impact | Influences monsoons, cyclones, jet streams, and global weather patterns. |
| MJO vs. ENSO | – MJO: Short-term system, cycle of weeks. – ENSO (El Niño/La Niña): Long-term, lasts months to years. |
MJO and the 2025 Early Monsoon
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| MJO Phase | Phase 4 with high amplitude → Active over the Indian Ocean. |
| Effect on Monsoon | – Moved extra moisture and clouds from the Indian Ocean. – Enabled rapid monsoon progress from Kerala to Maharashtra in just 2 days. |
| Other Factors | – Cross-equatorial flow: Warm, moist air from southern hemisphere. – Low-pressure system over Arabian Sea → Pre-monsoon rains in Mumbai. |
| Impact on Mumbai | Wettest May in over 100 years. Highlights the power of tropical systems like the MJO in shaping Indian monsoon patterns. |
Broader Significance of the MJO
- Affects global weather → From tropical cyclones to jet stream patterns.
- Crucial for short-term weather forecasting → Unlike ENSO, which impacts long-term climate.
- Helps predict intra-seasonal variability in the Indian monsoon → Explains why some monsoon periods are wetter/drier than expected.
Summary
The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a large-scale, moving system of clouds, winds, and rain that travels across the tropics, influencing monsoons, cyclones, and weather globally. The MJO played a key role in triggering the early monsoon arrival in 2025, with Mumbai receiving record rainfall. Its short-term cycles (30-60 days) distinguish it from phenomena like El Niño, which have longer impacts. Understanding the MJO is critical for predicting monsoon patterns and preparing for extreme weather events in India.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements about the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO):
1.The MJO is a stationary weather system that affects tropical weather patterns.
2.The MJO has a cycle of 30-60 days and can impact monsoons and cyclones.
3.The MJO consists of an enhanced convective phase associated with rainfall and a suppressed phase linked to dry weather.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2
B.2 and 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3
2.What is the primary difference between the MJO and ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation)?
A. MJO is a long-term climate pattern, while ENSO affects short-term weather.
B. MJO affects global climate every 3-7 years, while ENSO is a seasonal phenomenon.
C. MJO is a short-term, eastward-moving tropical system, while ENSO is a long-term, ocean-atmosphere interaction.
D. Both MJO and ENSO last for the same duration and impact the Indian monsoon similarly.
Answer: C. MJO is a short-term, eastward-moving tropical system, while ENSO is a long-term, ocean-atmosphere interaction.
Mains
1.What is the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), and how does it influence the Indian monsoon? Discuss its recent role in triggering early monsoon rains over Mumbai in 2025. (250 words)
2.Differentiate between the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Explain their significance for India’s climate and weather forecasting. (250 words)
5.Conservation of Dugongs – Environment
Why in News?
- May 28 is observed annually as World Dugong Day, raising awareness about the conservation of these unique marine mammals.
- Dugongs are critically important for marine ecosystems but face severe threats, with India’s population now estimated at only 200 individuals.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dugong dugon |
| Common Name | Sea Cow |
| Habitat in India | – Andaman & Nicobar Islands – Gulf of Mannar – Palk Bay – Gulf of Kutch |
| Diet | Seagrasses: Cymodocea, Halophila, Thalassia, Halodule |
| Ecological Role | Known as “Farmers of the Sea”: They graze on seagrass beds, aerating the seabed and promoting seagrass growth. |
| Lifespan | Up to 70 years |
| Behaviour | Mostly solitary or found in mother-calf pairs |
| Reproduction | Slow growth rate: – Maturity at 9-10 years – Birth every 3-5 years – Population growth: ~5% annually |
Conservation Concerns
- Population Decline: Fewer than 200 dugongs remain in India.
- Habitat Threats:
- Destruction of seagrass meadows (due to coastal development, pollution, trawling).
- Accidental entanglement in fishing nets.
- Slow reproductive rate → Difficult population recovery.
Conservation Measures in India
| Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Protection | – Listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (highest level of protection). |
| IUCN Status | – Globally: Vulnerable – Regionally in India: Endangered |
| Global Treaties | – India joined Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) in 1983. – Signed the Dugong Conservation MoU in 2008. |
| Dedicated Reserve | – India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu (2022). – Area: 448.3 sq. km. |
Summary
Dugongs, often called “sea cows”, are gentle, herbivorous marine mammals that play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass ecosystems. Found in India’s Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and Gulf of Kutch, they face significant threats due to habitat destruction, bycatch, and slow reproduction rates. With only 200 individuals left in India, conservation efforts like legal protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, global cooperation through the CMS and Dugong MoU, and the establishment of the Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay are crucial for their survival.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements about Dugongs:
1.Dugongs are exclusively herbivorous marine mammals that feed on seagrass.
2.Dugongs are classified as ‘Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List globally.
3.Dugongs are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India.
4.The Dugong Conservation Reserve in India is located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1, 2, and 3
B. 1, 3, and 4
C. 1 and 3 only
D.1 and 4 only
Answer: C. 1 and 3 only
(Note: Dugongs are globally listed as ‘Vulnerable’, not ‘Endangered’, and the Dugong Conservation Reserve is in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu—not Andaman and Nicobar Islands.)
2.Dugongs are often referred to as:
A. Ocean cleaners
B. Sea grazers
C. Farmers of the sea
D.Sea shepherds
Answer: C. Farmers of the sea
Mains
1.Discuss the ecological importance of Dugongs in marine ecosystems. What are the major threats to their survival in India, and suggest measures to ensure their conservation. (250 words)
2.Examine the role of conservation reserves, like the Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, in protecting endangered marine species in India. (250 words)
6.Energy Efficiency Initiatives in India – Economy
Why in News?
- Amid rising power deficits caused by urbanisation and climate pressures, India’s UJALA scheme stands out for its success in reducing energy demand.
- Key Outcomes:
- $10 billion savings
- Avoided building 9,500 MW worth of new capacity
- Demonstrates that efficiency can be as impactful as capacity expansion in meeting India’s energy needs.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| India’s Power Demand | – Peak demand (2023-24): 250 GW (3rd largest globally) – Power deficit rose from 0.69% in FY20 to nearly 5% in FY24. |
| Challenges | – Urbanisation and rising temperatures → Surge in demand for cooling appliances. – Slow power generation expansion: New plants, especially coal-based, are costly and time-consuming. |
| UJALA Scheme (2015) | – Full form: Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All – Distributed over 37 crore LED bulbs across India. – Reduced peak power demand by 1,500 MW, avoided the need for 9,500 MW of capacity (equal to 19 coal-fired plants). |
| Impact on Costs | – Price of LED bulbs fell from ₹500 to ₹70, making them affordable for common households. |
| Impact on Emissions | – Significant CO₂ emission reductions, aiding India’s climate goals. |
Why Energy Efficiency is Crucial for India
| Aspect | Significance |
|---|---|
| Bridging Demand-Supply Gap | Efficiency measures reduce the need for new capacity, easing pressure on the grid. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Avoids costly investments in new power plants, transmission infrastructure. |
| Climate Goals | Supports emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement. |
| Sustainability | Reduces long-term dependence on fossil fuels, promotes cleaner energy use. |
Beyond UJALA: Other Energy Efficiency Initiatives
| Programme | Focus |
|---|---|
| Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme | Reducing energy intensity in energy-intensive industries. |
| Standards & Labelling (S&L) Programme | Energy efficiency ratings for appliances (e.g., refrigerators, ACs). |
| Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) | Promotes energy-efficient building designs. |
| National Electric Mobility Mission | Encourages adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). |
Summary
India, as the third-largest power consumer globally, faces rising power deficits due to urbanisation, climate change, and surging demand for cooling appliances. Initiatives like the UJALA scheme have demonstrated that energy efficiency can offset demand growth, leading to substantial savings ($10 billion), avoided capacity addition (9,500 MW), and reduced emissions. While capacity expansion is necessary, efficiency-first strategies like UJALA are critical for a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims Practice Questions
1.Consider the following statements about energy efficiency in India:
1.The UJALA scheme was launched to promote affordable LED lighting.
2.Energy efficiency initiatives reduce the need for additional power generation capacity.
3.The UJALA scheme has helped India avoid the construction of new coal-fired plants.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A.1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2, and 3
2.The UJALA scheme has achieved all of the following except:
A. Reduced the cost of LED bulbs.
B. Distributed over 37 crore LED bulbs.
C.Led to the construction of 19 new coal-fired power plants.
D. Saved $10 billion in energy costs.
Answer: C.Led to the construction of 19 new coal-fired power plants.
Mains
1.Energy efficiency is often called the “first fuel” for a sustainable energy future. Discuss the significance of energy efficiency in India’s energy policy, with special reference to the UJALA scheme. (250 words)
2.India’s power demand is growing rapidly due to urbanisation and climate change. Critically evaluate the role of energy efficiency initiatives in managing this demand sustainably. (250 words)