Three new startups have recently been selected under the IndiaAI Mission to contribute to the development of India’s indigenous Foundation Models, marking a milestone in building self-reliant AI capabilities.
BACKGROUND: What is the IndiaAI Mission?
Feature
Detail
Launched
2023
Collaborators
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) + Nasscom
Implementing Agency
IndiaAI, a dedicated division under MeitY
Mission Vision
Build a robust AI ecosystem in India that supports innovation, accessibility, and responsible AI use
Mission Objectives
1. Making AI in India
Promote indigenous development of AI tools, models, datasets, and hardware. Encourage local innovation in AI algorithms and foundational models.
2. Making AI Work for India
Apply AI solutions to address challenges in agriculture, health, education, governance, and infrastructure. Ensure equity and inclusion in AI deployment to benefit all strata of society.
Seven Pillars Of The Indiaai Mission
Pillar
Description
Common Compute Facility
A shared infrastructure providing high-performance computing (HPC) for startups, researchers, and academia.
AI Kosha
A national AI datasets platform enabling access to curated, multilingual, high-quality datasets for AI training.
AI Safety Institute of India(upcoming)
Will promote ethical AI, governance frameworks, and risk assessment mechanisms.
IndiaAI Innovation Centre
A hub for R&D in frontier AI technologies, including foundation models and language models.
AI Application Development Initiative
Funds and supports AI solutions tailored for priority sectors like health, ed-tech, agri-tech, etc.
FutureSkills Initiative
Focuses on reskilling and upskilling the workforce in AI, ML, and data science.
Startup Financing
Provides funding and incubation for AI-based startups with high innovation potential.
Role Of Key Agencies
Agency
Role
MeitY
Policy framing, coordination, and funding support.
NASSCOM
Industry interface, incubation, and partnership with private sector.
IndiaAI Division
Day-to-day execution, implementation of computing infrastructure, funding allocation, etc.
Strategic Importance
Technological Sovereignty
Reduces reliance on foreign AI platforms.
Enables India to build and control foundational AI models in Indian languages.
Inclusive Development
Applications in agriculture (precision farming), rural health, and language translation can reduce the digital divide.
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Synergy
Can integrate with initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker to enhance service delivery using AI.
Global Competitiveness
Aims to position India as a global AI innovation hub, alongside the US, China, and EU.
What Are Foundation Models?
Foundation Models are large AI models trained on massive datasets that can be adapted to many tasks (e.g., ChatGPT, BERT).
IndiaAI seeks to develop indigenous multilingual foundation models, tailored to Indian contexts, datasets, and regulations.
Summary
The IndiaAI Mission is a national-level initiative aimed at democratizing access to AI, boosting indigenous development, and ensuring responsible AI deployment across sectors. With its seven foundational pillars, the mission envisions an AI ecosystem that is inclusive, ethical, and globally competitive, while fostering innovation among startups, academia, and industry stakeholders.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following is NOT a pillar of the IndiaAI Mission? A. Common Compute Facility B. AI Kosha C. AI Tax Incentive Council D. IndiaAI Innovation Centre Answer: C. AI Tax Incentive Council
With reference to the IndiaAI Mission, consider the following statements: 1. It is jointly launched by MeitY and NASSCOM. 2. It focuses only on the private sector AI adoption. 3. It supports development of Foundation Models for Indian use cases. Which of the statements are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 3 only C.2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Mains
What is the significance of the IndiaAI Mission in achieving technological self-reliance in Artificial Intelligence? Discuss its potential impact across sectors. (250 words)
Explain the concept of Foundation Models in AI. How can India benefit from developing its own indigenous foundation models under the IndiaAI Mission? (250 words)
Discuss the ethical concerns surrounding AI. How does the IndiaAI Mission propose to address issues related to responsible AI use? (250 words)
2. DHRUVA – Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address – Governance
Why In News?
The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has launched DHRUVA, a transformative Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiative to standardize and digitize address systems across India, making them geo-coded, interoperable, and secure.
What Is Dhruva?
DHRUVA stands for Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address.
It is a nationwide digital address ecosystem aiming to:
Replace traditional addresses with geo-coded digital addresses
Create standardized, interoperable, and secure address references
Introduce Address-as-a-Service (AaaS) for dynamic address data management
Key Objectives
Objective
Description
Standardization
Ensures uniform formats for address data using geolocation tagging
Interoperability
Enables seamless integration of address data across sectors and platforms
Digital Identity for Addresses
Assigns each address a Unique Virtual Address (UVA) that can be securely shared
Secure & Consent-Based Sharing
Citizens control who accesses their verified address and when
Real-Time Updates
Empowers users to update and manage address records as needed
Key Features Of Dhruva
1. Geo-Coded Addressing
Powered by the earlier DIGI PIN system developed with IIT Hyderabad and ISRO
Provides precise latitude-longitude coordinates for every address
2. Address-as-a-Service (AaaS)
Enables on-demand access to verified address data by:
Government departments (e.g., welfare schemes)
Private businesses (e.g., e-commerce, delivery)
Emergency services
3. Integration with Digital Ecosystem
Linkage with platforms like:
Aadhaar for identity verification
DigiLocker for document sharing
Multilingual interfaces to enhance accessibility
4. User-Centric Privacy & Consent
Citizens can:
Manage visibility of their address
Control data access to specific agencies or individuals
Digitally verify and update their location/address status
Use Cases & Applications
Sector
Application
Governance
Targeted service delivery (e.g., DBT, housing benefits)
E-commerce & Logistics
Accurate deliveries and warehouse optimization
Urban Planning
Data-driven city management and smart city integration
Emergency Services
Quick response using accurate location tagging
Financial Inclusion
KYC and address verification for banking services
Public-Private Collaboration
Encourages tech companies, logistics providers, and fintech startups to:
Build solutions on top of DHRUVA’s DPI
Use APIs to validate or update digital addresses
Promotes digital entrepreneurship and innovation in location services
Relation To Other Initiatives
Initiative
Role
DIGI PIN
Technical backbone for geo-coded addressing
India Stack
DHRUVA adds a location layer to India’s DPI, complementing Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker
Digital India
Supports paperless, contactless, and presence-less governance
Smart Cities Mission
Provides foundational address infrastructure for urban tech solutions
Summary
DHRUVA is a path-breaking step in redefining how addresses are managed, verified, and shared in India. It empowers citizens to digitally control and share their address identities while offering the government and businesses a standardized, secure, and geo-coded system. By combining technological precision with user-centric control, DHRUVA strengthens India’s vision for inclusive, efficient, and tech-enabled governance.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
With reference to the DHRUVA initiative, consider the following statements: 1. It was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. 2. It creates a geo-coded digital address system for India. 3. It allows for consent-based sharing of verified address information. Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2, and 3 Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
What does the term “Address-as-a-Service (AaaS)” refer to in the context of the DHRUVA initiative? A. On-demand postal delivery system B.Real-time GPS tracking of government vehicles C. Secure and efficient digital address management system D. Mobile-based emergency address locator Answer: C. Secure and efficient digital address management system
Mains
Discuss the significance of DHRUVA in transforming address management and delivery of citizen-centric services in India. (150/250 words)
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is crucial for inclusive governance. Explain how DHRUVA complements India’s digital governance ecosystem. (250 words)
3. Thrombectomy – Indigenous Medical Innovation for Stroke Treatment – Science & Technology
Why In News?
The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has announced financial support for developing India’s first indigenous thrombectomy device—a critical step toward improving stroke care and emergency vascular treatment within the country.
What Is Thrombectomy?
Thrombectomy is a medical procedure used to remove a blood clot (thrombus) from an artery or vein to restore normal blood flow.
Why It’s Needed
Blood clots (thrombi) can block blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to vital tissues.
If untreated, clots can lead to stroke, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or limb loss.
A timely thrombectomy (within 6 hours for strokes, ideally) can prevent irreversible damage or death.
Types Of Thrombectomy
Type
Description
Surgical (Open) Thrombectomy
Involves making an incision to access the blocked vessel; a catheter with a balloon may be used to extract the clot, and the vessel is then repaired.
Percutaneous (Minimally Invasive) Thrombectomy
Involves inserting a thin catheter through the skin and guiding it to the clot using imaging; the clot is either suctioned, fragmented, or chemically dissolved (often with thrombolytics).
Common Locations Of Blood Clots
Body Part
Potential Condition
Brain
Ischemic Stroke
Lungs
Pulmonary Embolism
Heart
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Legs/Arms
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Intestines
Mesenteric Ischemia
Indigenous Development: Why It Matters
National Significance:
First Made-in-India thrombectomy device
Reduces dependency on imported medical devices, making treatments more affordable and accessible
Health System Impact:
Improves India’s stroke treatment infrastructure
Boosts emergency preparedness in tier-2 and tier-3 cities
Promotes healthcare equity and cost-effectiveness
Strategic Push:
Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat and National Medical Device Policy 2023
Supported by Technology Development Board (TDB) under DST to promote domestic innovation
Technological And Medical Innovation
Component
Role
Imaging Support (CT/MRI)
Used to locate and assess the clot before thrombectomy
Catheter-Based Tools
Introduced through blood vessels to suction or break the clot
Thrombolytics
Medications sometimes used in combination to dissolve residual clot material
Smart Monitoring Systems
Track blood flow restoration and post-operative recovery
Global & Indian Context
Globally:
Thrombectomy is a standard emergency stroke care procedure in developed nations.
Requires sophisticated devices often costing lakhs of rupees.
In India:
Access is limited to urban tertiary care centers.
Cost and availability of imported thrombectomy devices are major hurdles.
Indigenous development is critical to democratize stroke and vascular care.
Summary
Thrombectomy is a life-saving vascular intervention that removes blood clots from arteries or veins. The indigenous development of thrombectomy devices, supported by the Technology Development Board (DST), marks a major leap in India’s medical device innovation and stroke treatment capability. It not only enhances healthcare access but also strengthens India’s self-reliance in critical medical technologies.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
With reference to thrombectomy, consider the following statements: 1. It is used to treat blood clots in arteries and veins. 2. It always involves open surgery. 3. It can be used in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Which of the above statements are correct? A.1 and 3 onlyA B. 2 and 3 only C.1 and 2 only D.1, 2 and 3 Answer: A. 1 and 3 only
Which government body is supporting the development of India’s first indigenous thrombectomy device? A. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) B. National Health Authority (NHA) C. Technology Development Board (TDB) D.NITI Aayog Answer: C. Technology Development Board (TDB)
Mains
Discuss the role of indigenous medical device innovation in strengthening India’s public health infrastructure. Illustrate with the example of thrombectomy device development. (250 words)
How can advanced interventions like thrombectomy revolutionize stroke care in India? What are the challenges and opportunities in their widespread implementation? (250 words)
The Telangana government has officially declared the tiger corridor connecting Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana) and Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) as the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve. This move enhances protection of wildlife corridors and strengthens landscape-level conservation.
What Is A Conservation Reserve?
Legal Provision:
Declared under Section 36(A) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, a Conservation Reserve is:
A protected area between national parks, sanctuaries, or reserved forests.
Aimed at protecting landscapes and corridors critical to wildlife movement and habitat connectivity.
Typically involves community participation and state-level notification.
Location And Ecological Significance
Feature
Description
Name
Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve
State
Telangana
Landscape
Southernmost part of Central Indian Tiger Landscape
Forest Type
Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
Connectivity
Links: • Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana) • Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) • Indirect link to Indravati Tiger Reserve (Chhattisgarh)
Fauna Supported
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaur, deer species, and various avifauna
About Kawal Tiger Reserve
Parameter
Detail
Location
Adilabad district, Telangana
Declared
As a Tiger Reserve in 2012
Landscape
Part of the Sahyadri Hill Range
Ecological Role
Serves as a core habitat and breeding ground for tigers
Connectivity
Plays a key role in maintaining genetic flow between tiger populations across central India
Importance Of Tiger Corridors
Benefit
Explanation
Ecological Connectivity
Allows free movement of tigers and other species between fragmented habitats
Genetic Diversity
Prevents inbreeding and supports healthy tiger populations
Conflict Mitigation
Reduces chances of human-wildlife conflict by ensuring safe migratory routes
Climate Resilience
Corridors act as buffer zones and support climate adaptation for species
The declaration of the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve is a landmark conservation move that legally protects a crucial tiger corridor in the Central Indian Landscape. By ensuring habitat connectivity between Kawal and Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserves, this initiative supports genetic diversity, ecosystem stability, and community-led conservation, reflecting India’s commitment to protecting its flagship species and biodiversity.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Under which of the following sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 can a Conservation Reserve be declared? A. Section 25A B. Section 38A C. Section 36A D. Section 48A Answer: C. Section 36A
Which of the following tiger reserves are connected via the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve? 1. Nagarjunsagar-Srisaila 2. Tadoba-Andhari 3. Kawal 4. Indravati Select the correct answer: A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 2, 3, and 4 only D. All of the above Answer: C. 2, 3, and 4 only
Mains
Discuss the role of conservation reserves in strengthening India’s wildlife corridor networks. Highlight the importance of the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve in this context. (250 words)
Habitat fragmentation is a major threat to wildlife in India. How can ecological corridors like Kumram Bheem help in mitigating this challenge? Suggest measures to ensure their effectiveness. (250 words)
5. Amolops shillong – The Shillong Cascade Frog – Environment
Why In News?
A new species of frog named Amolops shillong, or the Shillong Cascade Frog, has been discovered in urban forest patches of Shillong, Meghalaya. The species thrives in fast-flowing streams, and its discovery within an urban area highlights the hidden biodiversity and ecological importance of urban microhabitats.
Species Profile: Amolops Shillong
Feature
Details
Common Name
Shillong Cascade Frog
Scientific Name
Amolops shillong
Genus
Amolops (Cascade frogs)
Habitat
Fast-flowing mountain streams and urban forest patches
Location
Shillong, Meghalaya
Discovery Context
First urban-discovered species in this genus in India
Genetic & Ecological Insights
Aspect
Description
Species Group
Belongs to the Amolops indoburmanensis complex
Close Relative
Amolops siju – a cave-dwelling species also found in Meghalaya
Ecological Adaptation
Found in urban neighbourhoods, indicating microhabitat resilience and ecological adaptability
About The Amolops Genus
Feature
Description
First Recorded in India
Mid-19th century (1850s)
Ecological Niche
Known as “cascade frogs”, typically inhabit waterfalls and rapid streams
Morphological Traits
Well-adapted for slippery surfaces: strong limbs, webbed feet
India’s Diversity
20 species recorded so far; 9 discovered in the last 20 years, mostly in Northeast India
Ecological Significance
Urban Biodiversity
Discovery in Shillong, a bustling hill city, reveals that urban ecosystems can support rare or new species.
Shows presence of undisturbed microhabitats (e.g., green corridors, stream patches) even within city limits.
Conservation Implications
Highlights the importance of urban green spaces as biodiversity repositories.
Calls for integrating wildlife-sensitive urban planning, especially in biodiversity hotspots like Northeast India.
Northeast India as a Biodiversity Hotspot
Part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.
Rich in endemic amphibians, orchids, birds, and cave species.
Threatened by urbanization, deforestation, and climate change.
Why This Discovery Matters
Impact Area
Importance
Taxonomy
Adds a new species to India’s amphibian biodiversity record
Urban Ecology
First frog of its genus recorded from an urban habitat in India
Conservation
Strengthens the case for protecting urban water bodies and forest patches
Public Awareness
Promotes community involvement in urban biodiversity monitoring
Summary
The discovery of the Amolops shillong, or Shillong Cascade Frog, within an urban landscape, marks a rare and significant contribution to India’s amphibian diversity. As a stream-adapted species surviving in Shillong’s forested pockets, it underscores the critical role of urban green spaces in conserving endemic and lesser-known fauna. This finding amplifies the need for urban biodiversity protection, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like Northeast India.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
With reference to the species Amolops shillong, consider the following statements: 1.It was discovered in an urban area. 2. It belongs to the family of tree frogs commonly found in dry forest ecosystems. 3. It is adapted to live in fast-flowing water habitats. 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: B. 1 and 3 only
The genus Amolops, recently seen in news, is primarily known to inhabit: A. Dry deserts and salt flats B. Wetlands and rice fields C. Fast-flowing streams and waterfalls D. Caves and underground aquifers Answer: C. Fast-flowing streams and waterfalls
Mains
Urban areas are increasingly being recognized as reservoirs of biodiversity. Discuss with reference to the discovery of Amolops shillong in Meghalaya. (150/250 words)
Highlight the significance of Northeast India in India’s biodiversity conservation efforts. How can urbanization be made compatible with conservation in such regions? (250 words)
6. Netravati River – The Lifeline of Dakshina Kannada – Environment
Why In News?
Due to continuous heavy rainfall in Dakshina Kannada district, the water level of the Netravati River rose significantly, prompting precautionary evacuations in low-lying areas, bringing attention to the river’s ecological and economic importance.
Key Facts About The Netravati River
Parameter
Details
State
Karnataka
Region
Dakshina Kannada district
Length
~103 km
Drainage Area
3,657 sq. km
Flow Direction
West-flowing river
Origin
Bangrabalige Valley, Yelaneeru Ghat, Kudremukha Range, Western Ghats (Chikkamagaluru district)
Elevation at Source
~1,300 meters above sea level
Confluence
Merges with Kumaradhara River at Uppinangadi
Mouth
Empties into the Arabian Sea near Mangalore
Geographical And Cultural Importance
Aspect
Description
Ecological Role
Supports Western Ghats biodiversity, replenishes groundwater, maintains soil moisture
Water Resource
Primary source of drinking water and irrigation for Bantwal, Mangalore, and surrounding areas
Religious Significance
Passes through Dharmasthala, an important pilgrimage center
Scenic Landscape
Flows through rainforests, ghats, and fertile plains, shaping the geography of coastal Karnataka
Climatic Characteristics Of The Basin
Climate: Humid and tropical
Rainfall: Very high—due to proximity to the Western Ghats and southwest monsoon
Seasonality:
Monsoons bring flooding risks
Dry season may lead to water scarcity in upper basin
Important Locations Along The River
Location
Significance
Bantwal
Historic trade center; once called Bantwal River due to its proximity
Uppinangadi
Confluence point of Netravati and Kumaradhara
Dharmasthala
Major pilgrimage site along its banks
Mangalore
Coastal city where the river discharges into the Arabian Sea; key urban water consumer
Environmental And Socio-Economic Role
Environmental Importance
Supports riparian vegetation, aquatic life, and Western Ghats ecology
Acts as a climate buffer for local areas
Economic & Social Role
Provides water for:
Drinking
Irrigation
Fishing
Local industries
Essential for coastal and riverine livelihoods
Vulnerabilities & Concerns
Concern
Explanation
Flooding
Frequent during monsoons due to heavy rainfall and unplanned development
Sand Mining
Illegal extraction affects riverbed ecology and water quality
Urban Pressure
Mangalore’s expansion places demand on water resources
Deforestation in Western Ghats
Threatens watershed stability and rainfall absorption
Proposed Diversion Projects
Past proposals to divert river water for irrigation faced environmental opposition
Summary
The Netravati River is a vital west-flowing river in Karnataka, crucial for the ecology, culture, and economy of Dakshina Kannada. Originating in the Western Ghats, it supports both rural communities and urban centers like Mangalore. Recent floods due to heavy rains highlight the need for sustainable river management, flood preparedness, and conservation of the river’s watershed in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
With reference to the Netravati River, consider the following statements: 1.It is a tributary of the Krishna River. 2. It originates in the Kudremukha range of the Western Ghats. 3. It flows eastward and empties into the Bay of Bengal. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1 and 2 only Answer: B.2 only
Which one of the following rivers is known as the “lifeline of Dakshina Kannada” in Karnataka? A. Tungabhadra B. Netravati C.Sharavathi D.Hemavathi Answer: B. Netravati
Mains
Discuss the ecological and socio-economic significance of the Netravati River in Karnataka. What challenges does it face in the context of climate change and human activity? (250 words)
The conservation of river systems is crucial for sustainable development. Examine the role of west-flowing rivers like Netravati in maintaining ecological balance in the Western Ghats region. (250 words)
7. Zangezur Corridor – Geopolitics and Regional Connectivity in the South Caucasus– International Relations
Why In News?
The Zangezur Corridor has drawn renewed attention following a meeting between Armenia’s Security Council Secretary and India’s National Security Advisor in New Delhi, reflecting growing Indian interest in South Caucasus connectivity and related geopolitical alignments.
What Is The Zangezur Corridor?
Feature
Details
Type
Proposed land-based transport corridor
Location
Passes through Syunik Province in southern Armenia
Purpose
Connects mainland Azerbaijan with its exclave – the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic
Bypasses
Armenia’s internal transport routes; gives Azerbaijan direct access to Turkey
Strategic Integration
Part of a broader network involving the Horadiz–Agbend railway (Azerbaijan) and Nakhchivan–Igdir–Kars link (Turkey)
Geographical Context
Key Regions Involved:
Zangezur: Southern Armenia (disputed area historically between Armenia and Azerbaijan)
Nakhchivan: An Azerbaijani exclave bordered by Armenia, Turkey, and Iran
Syunik Province: Armenian territory the corridor would traverse
Kars & Igdir (Turkey): Nodes for connecting the corridor to Anatolia and Europe
Broader Connectivity Ambitions:
Seeks to connect Central Asia → Caucasus → Turkey → Europe
Bypasses routes through Iran or Russia, reshaping Eurasian trade corridors
Strategic & Geopolitical Significance
Factor
Impact
Azerbaijan–Turkey Connectivity
Enables direct land access between the two countries
Pan-Turkic Integration
Supports Turkey’s ambitions to build stronger links with Turkic states in Central Asia
Armenia’s Sovereignty Concerns
Armenia fears loss of control over Syunik and perceives the project as a violation of its territorial integrity
Russia’s Role
Brokered the corridor under the 2020 ceasefire deal after the Nagorno-Karabakh war; maintains peacekeeping presence in the region
Iran’s Objection
Opposes the corridor as it may isolate Iran from regional connectivity and strengthen Turkey-Azerbaijan nexus
India’s Interest
Growing ties with Armenia; India sees the corridor through the lens of strategic counterbalance to Turkey-Pakistan-China cooperation
Economic & Infrastructure Impact
Potential Benefits:
Shortens travel time between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan
Boosts logistics efficiency and cross-border trade
Links the region with Europe, Russia, and Central Asia
Promotes infrastructure investment and regional economic integration
Risks:
Exacerbates regional tensions, especially with Armenia and Iran
Could become a flashpoint in an already volatile South Caucasus
Related Agreements
The 2020 Russia-brokered ceasefire agreement (after the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War) included provisions for the opening of transport routes, including a land corridor through Armenian territory, under Russian supervision.
The corridor remains controversial, as no finalized agreement exists on sovereignty and control mechanisms.
India’s Interests In The Region
Interest
Explanation
Strategic Partnership with Armenia
Arms sales, diplomatic support, and counterbalancing Turkey–Pakistan alignment
Alternative Connectivity
May explore Eurasian routes via Armenia, Georgia, and Iran as part of North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
Energy and Trade Routes
Long-term potential to access Caspian energy resources via Armenia-Azerbaijan-Turkey axis
Summary
The Zangezur Corridor is a proposed geopolitical and trade route that seeks to link Azerbaijan with its exclave Nakhchivan, bypassing Armenia and enhancing Turkey–Azerbaijan connectivity. While it holds economic and infrastructural promise for Eurasian trade, it is mired in historical disputes, regional rivalries, and strategic anxieties, especially from Armenia and Iran. India’s growing engagement reflects its interest in multipolar connectivity and regional stability in the South Caucasus.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
The Zangezur Corridor, recently in the news, is intended to connect: A. Azerbaijan and Iran B. Armenia and Georgia C. Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan via Armenia D. Turkey and Syria via Iraq Answer: C. Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan via Armenia
Which of the following countries directly border the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic? 1.Armenia 2.Iran 3.Turkey 4. Azerbaijan Select the correct answer: A.1 and 2 only B. 1, 2, and 3 only C. 1, 2, 3, and 4 D. 2 and 4 only Answer: B. 1, 2, and 3 only
Mains
What is the Zangezur Corridor? Examine its geopolitical and economic implications for the South Caucasus region. (250 words)
Discuss India’s emerging engagement in the South Caucasus. How does regional connectivity like the Zangezur Corridor affect India’s strategic interests? (250 words)
