1. 6th BIMSTEC Summit – Strengthening Regional Cooperation in the Bay of Bengal – International Relations
Why in News?
India participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, held in Thailand, under the theme:
“BIMSTEC: Prosperous, Resilient, and Open”
The Summit adopted Bangkok Vision 2030 and announced several key Indian initiatives to boost regional integration, resilience, and people-to-people ties.
What is BIMSTEC?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation |
| Established | 1997 (Bangkok Declaration) |
| Members | 7 countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand |
| HQ | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| Focus Areas | Trade, connectivity, disaster management, public health, agriculture, energy, counter-terrorism |
Key Highlights of the 6th Summit
Bangkok Vision 2030
- Adopted as the vision document for a prosperous, resilient, and open region
- Focused on:
- Economic integration
- Climate resilience
- Maritime cooperation
- Digital and technological connectivity
🇮🇳 Key Indian Announcements at the Summit
1. Centres of Excellence
India proposed setting up BIMSTEC Centres in:
- Disaster Management
- Sustainable Maritime Transport
- Traditional Medicine
- Research & Training in Agriculture
2. BODHI Program
- A skill development program for BIMSTEC professionals
- Offers training, scholarships, and capacity building
3. Cancer Care Initiative
- India to launch a regional program for cancer care training and infrastructure
4. Economic & Business Cooperation
- Proposal for:
- BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce
- Annual Business Summit to boost trade and investment
5. Cultural and Sports Exchange
- BIMSTEC Athletics Meet (2025)
- First BIMSTEC Games (2027)
- Traditional Music Festival
Strategic Significance of BIMSTEC
| Area | Importance |
|---|---|
| Bay of Bengal Region | Home to 1.7 billion people (~22% of world population); GDP ~USD 5.2 trillion |
| India’s Act East Policy | Serves as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia |
| Alternative to SAARC | With SAARC largely stalled, BIMSTEC provides a functional platform for cooperation |
| Security & Connectivity | Focus on HADR, maritime security, transnational crime, and regional logistics |
| Strategic Balance | Counters China’s BRI influence by fostering regional self-reliance and interdependence |
Institutional & Cultural Promotion
- India has established the Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies (CBS) at Nalanda University
- Promotes intangible cultural heritage, Buddhist linkages, and regional research
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. BIMSTEC was originally known as:
A) BIST-EC
B) SAARC-Plus
C) BBIN
D) ASEAN-India Forum
Correct Answer: A) BIST-EC
(Originally Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand – Economic Cooperation)
Q2. Which of the following countries are members of BIMSTEC?
- Bhutan
- Nepal
- Maldives
- Myanmar
A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 2, 3 and 4 only
C) 1, 2 and 4 only
D) All four
Correct Answer: C) 1, 2 and 4 only
(Maldives is not a member of BIMSTEC)
Mains:
Q. Discuss the relevance of BIMSTEC in the context of India’s Act East Policy and the need for sub-regional cooperation in South Asia. What steps has India taken to strengthen BIMSTEC in recent years?
Conclusion
The 6th BIMSTEC Summit showcased India’s proactive leadership in building a cohesive, resilient, and cooperative Bay of Bengal region. With India’s strategic initiatives across skill development, cancer care, commerce, and culture, BIMSTEC has emerged as a vibrant platform that can fill the vacuum left by SAARC and promote inclusive growth and security in the Indo-Pacific.
2. Chandrayaan-3’s ChaSTE: A Landmark in Lunar Surface Exploration – Science and Technology
Why in News?
India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a historic scientific milestone with the successful deployment and operation of ChaSTE (Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment) — the first instrument ever to measure subsurface temperature near the Moon’s south pole.
What is ChaSTE?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment |
| Developed by | ISRO in collaboration with the Space Physics Laboratory (SPL), VSSC, and PRL, Ahmedabad |
| Part of | Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander payload |
| Objective | To measure thermal properties and temperature gradients of the lunar regolith (soil) at the Moon’s south pole |
Instrument & Deployment Details
- Design:
- A needle-shaped thermal probe with 10 temperature sensors, each 1 cm apart.
- Mechanism:
- Uses a rotating motion (instead of hammering) to gently penetrate the lunar soil.
- Depth Achieved:
- Reached up to 10 cm beneath the lunar surface.
- Data Collected:
- Thermal data recorded continuously until September 2023.
- Indicated more water ice presence than earlier estimated.
Why Lunar South Pole Matters
- Presence of permanently shadowed regions (PSRs) that may hold frozen water
- Crucial for future lunar habitats, fuel generation, and deep space missions
How ChaSTE Succeeded Where Others Failed
| Mission | Agency | Instrument | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇮🇳 Chandrayaan-3 (2023) | ISRO | ChaSTE | ✅ Successfully measured lunar subsurface temperature |
| 🇪🇺 Philae Lander (2014) | ESA | MUPUS | ❌ Probe failed to deploy due to awkward landing on comet 67P |
| 🇺🇸 InSight (2018) | NASA | HP³ (Heat Flow Probe) | ❌ Mechanical failure in hammering probe into Martian soil |
Key Insight: ChaSTE’s rotation-based mechanism avoided issues caused by low surface friction or incorrect landing angle, unlike the hammering method.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. ChaSTE, recently in the news, is related to:
A) Measuring temperature of exoplanets
B) Thermal profiling of comet 67P
C) Subsurface temperature measurement on the Moon
D) Testing heat-shield technologies on ISRO’s PSLV
Correct Answer: C) Subsurface temperature measurement on the Moon
Q2. Which of the following statements about Chandrayaan-3’s ChaSTE experiment is/are correct?
- It uses a hammer-based deployment system to penetrate the lunar soil.
- It successfully collected thermal data from the lunar south pole.
- It was developed by ISRO in partnership with NASA.
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: B) 2 only
(Statement 1 is incorrect – it uses rotation; Statement 3 is incorrect – not with NASA)
Mains:
Q. The successful deployment of ChaSTE under Chandrayaan-3 highlights India’s technological advancement in planetary science. Discuss the significance of this experiment in the context of future lunar missions.
Conclusion
ChaSTE’s success is a major leap in India’s space research capabilities, demonstrating the potential for indigenous innovation in planetary exploration. The data obtained will guide future lunar bases, resource extraction, and pave the way for ISRO’s Gaganyaan and human exploration missions. By succeeding where other global missions faced limitations, India has firmly positioned itself as a leader in next-gen space science.
3. Reforming Indian Railways: A National Lifeline Under Transformation – Economy
Why in News?
A recent CAG audit report (2024) raised concerns about the performance of Indian Railways, spotlighting issues like slow infrastructure development, high operating ratios, and delayed safety modernization.
Indian Railways at a Glance
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | 4th-largest railway network (65,000+ km) |
| Passenger Traffic | 8 billion passengers (2022) |
| Freight | 1.4 billion tonnes |
| Projected Revenue (2023–24) | USD 32.18 billion |
| FDI | 100% FDI permitted |
| Future Investment | USD 750 billion by 2030 |
| Employment | 1.2 million+ (9th-largest employer globally) |
| Sustainability Goal | Net zero carbon emissions by 2030 |
Key Innovations and Projects
Vande Bharat Trains
- Semi-high-speed, modern amenities
- Promotes comfort, speed, and energy efficiency
KAVACH – Train Collision Avoidance System
- GPS-based system to auto-stop trains to prevent collisions
- Deployed on only 2% of network (1,465 route km) as of Feb 2024
Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs)
- Reduces logistics cost
- Eastern DFC: Operational
- Western DFC: Near completion
- Others (East Coast, East-West, North-South): Still in planning
Hydrogen for Heritage Program
- Hydrogen-fueled trains to promote clean, sustainable transport
Importance of Indian Railways
| Domain | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Economic Backbone | Transports coal, cement, agri-products, etc. |
| Sustainability | Electrification, green toilets, biofuel adoption |
| Strategic | Connects Northeast, border areas; enhances national security |
| Socio-economic Equity | Connects rural to urban; improves access to education, healthcare |
| Employment | One of the largest employers in India |
| Trade & Logistics | Boosts Make in India via efficient freight handling |
Major Concerns Raised by CAG Report
| Area | Issue |
|---|---|
| Operating Ratio | Projected at ₹98.2 for 2024–25 → Less revenue left for capital investment |
| Delayed Projects | Bullet train (Mumbai–Ahmedabad) delayed to 2028; DFCs incomplete |
| Safety | KAVACH rollout inadequate → Major safety risk |
| Low Average Speeds | Mail/Express trains: ~50 km/h (below Mission Raftaar targets) |
| Maintenance Backlogs | Delays in infrastructure upgrade and modern rolling stock |
| Expenditure Management | Over-reliance on Extra Budgetary Resources (EBRs) and central funds |
Key Committee Recommendations
| Committee | Key Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Rakesh Mohan (2010) | National Transport Infra Finance Authority; High-speed corridors |
| Kakodkar (2012) | Railway Safety Authority; Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (₹1 lakh crore fund) |
| Bibek Debroy (2014) | Railway Infra Authority; Outsourcing of non-core services; promote competition & PPP |
Way Forward
1. Freight Diversification
- Include pharma, electronics, and perishable goods
- Cold chain logistics and dedicated wagons
2. High-Speed Rail
- Prioritize completion of semi- and high-speed rail corridors (160–200 km/h)
- Compete with air travel on key routes
3. Multimodal Logistics Parks
- Smart inventory, warehouse automation
- Integration with road, inland waterways, ports
4. Private Sector Engagement
- Involve private players in:
- Rolling stock manufacturing
- Catering and station management
- Maintenance and logistics
5. Digital & Predictive Maintenance
- Use AI/ML for predictive maintenance
- Data-driven asset tracking to reduce downtimes
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q. What is KAVACH?
A) A cybersecurity firewall for railway data
B) A crowd management system at Indian Railways stations
C) A GPS-based anti-collision system for trains
D) An indigenous digital ticketing app
Correct Answer: C) A GPS-based anti-collision system for trains
Q. Which of the following committees is associated with Railway Safety?
A) Kelkar Committee
B) Bibek Debroy Committee
C) Rakesh Mohan Committee
D) Kakodkar Committee
Correct Answer: D) Kakodkar Committee
Mains:
Q. Discuss the role of Indian Railways in ensuring inclusive economic growth. What are the key challenges in modernizing Indian Railways, and how can they be addressed?
Conclusion
Indian Railways is more than a transport network — it is India’s economic, social, and strategic backbone. While ambitious reforms and investments are underway, effective execution, institutional strengthening, and private participation are vital to realizing the vision of world-class, green, and inclusive rail infrastructure by 2030.
4. Bangladesh Relations: Strategic Ties, Emerging Challenges, and the Road Ahead – International Relations
Why in News?
At the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok (2025), India’s PM held high-level talks with Bangladesh’s newly appointed Chief Adviser — the first formal engagement under the new administration in Dhaka.
Context & Importance
- India and Bangladesh share deep geographical, cultural, and strategic ties.
- Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia.
- The relationship is a cornerstone of India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” policies.
Bilateral Cooperation: Key Areas
1. Political and Strategic Cooperation
- 70+ bilateral institutional mechanisms: border security, trade, defence, rivers, etc.
- India supports Bangladesh in counter-terrorism, border fencing, defence modernization.
- Joint military exercises and training programs are regular.
2. Trade and Economic Partnership
- Trade Volume (2023–24): $14.01 billion
– India’s exports: $12.04 billion
– Bangladesh’s exports: $1.97 billion - Duty-free access under SAFTA
- Border haats and integrated check-posts facilitate small-scale cross-border trade
- Investment in logistics and power projects
3. Connectivity & Infrastructure
- Rail: Maitri, Bandhan, and Mitali Express; Agartala–Akhaura link operationalized
- Ports: India gains access to Chittagong & Mongla ports for NE connectivity (2023)
- Waterways: PIWTT (Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade)
- Road Links: BBIN MVA in progress
4. Energy Cooperation
- India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline (IBFPL): Diesel supply to northern Bangladesh
- Joint projects in solar and hydropower
- Power imports from India play a major role in Bangladesh’s energy security
5. Cultural & People-to-People Ties
- Celebrations like Maitree Diwas
- Scholarships, academic exchanges
- Shared language, history, and heritage
- Joint film festivals, music and literary events
Regional Cooperation Platforms
| Initiative | Status |
|---|---|
| SAARC | Stagnant due to India–Pakistan tensions |
| BIMSTEC | Active cooperation in trade, disaster relief, connectivity |
| BBIN | Active (Bhutan opted out temporarily) |
| BCIM | Limited progress (China-led; India cautious) |
| IORA | Maritime cooperation, blue economy |
| SASEC (ADB) | Subregional connectivity and energy integration |
Key Challenges and Concerns
1. Teesta River Water Dispute
- Pending since 2011; West Bengal state government’s objection is a major bottleneck.
- Joint Rivers Commission has not met since 2010.
2. Border Management
- 4,096 km porous border – smuggling, illegal migration, trafficking
- Recent border firing incidents raise diplomatic sensitivity
3. China’s Growing Influence
- Bangladesh’s large-scale infrastructure projects under China’s BRI
- Indian concerns about strategic encirclement in the Bay of Bengal
4. NRC & CAA Fallout
- Bangladesh fears potential influx due to Assam NRC and CAA, straining ties
- Bangladesh maintains non-recognition of undocumented migrants
5. Trade Issues
- Non-tariff barriers and limited access to Indian markets for Bangladeshi goods
- India’s trade surplus is a long-standing grievance
6. Minority Rights
- Safety of Hindus in Bangladesh periodically raises concerns in Indian media
- Bangladesh asserts constitutional protection for minorities
Way Forward
| Recommendation | Details |
|---|---|
| Strengthen Dialogue | High-level visits, annual summit mechanism |
| Improve Border Cooperation | Expand Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP), joint patrolling |
| Promote Inclusive Policies | Address NRC/CAA fears, protect minority rights on both sides |
| Diversify Trade | Expand product basket for Bangladesh; ease NTBs |
| Boost Energy Grid Connectivity | Integrate renewable grids; NE India – Bangladesh – Bhutan triangle |
| Enhance Digital & Infrastructure Links | Extend fibre-optic, fintech, and e-commerce cooperation |
| Balance China’s Role | Recalibrate engagement to maintain influence without coercion |
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. Which of the following is not a member of the BBIN subregional grouping?
A) Bhutan
B) India
C) Nepal
D) Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: D) Sri Lanka
Q2. India and Bangladesh signed the Friendship Pipeline Project to export:
A) LPG
B) Electricity
C) Diesel
D) Ethanol
Correct Answer: C) Diesel
Mains:
Q. India–Bangladesh relations are a critical pillar of regional diplomacy in South Asia. Examine the areas of convergence and conflict between the two nations. Suggest a way forward to strengthen bilateral ties.
Conclusion
India–Bangladesh relations are a model of geographical proximity matched with strategic partnership, yet layered with sensitive challenges. Navigating shared rivers, borders, migration, and regional influence requires patient diplomacy, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the Bay of Bengal region’s prosperity.
5. India’s Coal Boom – Production, Policy, and Path Ahead – Economy
Why in News?
India achieved a historic milestone by surpassing 1 billion tonnes (BT) of coal production in FY 2024–25, reinforcing its position as the world’s second-largest coal consumer and a major producer.
Key Data: India’s Coal Sector Snapshot
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Global Rank (Reserves) | 5th largest coal reserves |
| Share in India’s electricity generation | 74% |
| Share in India’s energy mix | 55% |
| Railways Freight Share | ~49% |
| Govt. Revenue (coal sector) | ₹70,000+ crore annually |
| Employment | 2.39 lakh (Coal India Ltd) + contract workers |
Production & Dispatch Highlight
| Indicator | 2023–24 | 2024–25 (Provisional) |
|---|---|---|
| Coal Production | 997.83 MT | 1047.57 MT ✅ |
| Coal Dispatch | ~980 MT | 1024.99 MT ✅ |
| Coal Imports | ↓ 8.4% YoY (Apr–Dec) | |
| Forex Savings | $5.43 billion |
Government Initiatives Driving the Boom
1. Commercial Coal Mining
- Opened up coal mining to private players
- Enhanced competition, efficiency, and domestic production
2. Mission Coking Coal
- Aim: Reduce import dependence on metallurgical (coking) coal
- Strategy: Develop new coking coal blocks + washeries
3. Coal Mitra Portal
- Facilitates flexible allocation of coal to power plants
- Reduces mismatch in supply-demand
4. Coal Mine Safety Modernisation
- Regulations updated from 1957 → Coal Mines Regulations, 2017
- Focus on:
- Emergency evacuation
- Mechanisation
- Real-time monitoring
Coal Gasification: The Clean Coal Push
| Concept | Details |
|---|---|
| Process | Converts coal into syngas (CO + H₂) |
| Uses | Methanol, Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG), fertilizers |
| Govt. Incentive | ₹8,500 crore approved |
| Revenue Rebate | 50% rebate in revenue share for coal gasified (≥10% of mined coal) |
Economic Significance
- Freight Revenue: Rs 82,275 crore (2022–23) from coal
- Employment: Core and contract workforce in lakhs
- Contribution to Self-Reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat): Reducing imports = Forex savings
Environmental & Future Considerations
Challenges
- Heavy GHG emissions and local pollution from coal-based plants
- Slow pace in transitioning to clean coal tech like CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage)
Balance Needed
- India must balance energy security with climate commitments
- Shift towards coal gasification, efficiency upgrades, and cleaner alternatives is critical
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q. India’s “Coal Mitra” portal is aimed at:
A) Reducing emissions in coal power plants
B) Improving real-time monitoring of mine safety
C) Streamlining allocation of coal to power plants
D) Facilitating public-private investment in coal washeries
Answer: C) Streamlining allocation of coal to power plants
Q. Which of the following statements is correct?
- India is the largest producer of coal in the world.
- Coal gasification results in the production of Synthetic Natural Gas.
- Coal accounts for more than 50% of India’s electricity generation.
A) 2 and 3 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A) 2 and 3 only
(India is the second-largest producer after China)
Mains:
Q. “Coal continues to dominate India’s energy landscape despite climate concerns.” Discuss the economic significance of coal in India and evaluate the steps taken to make coal use more sustainable.
Conclusion
Coal remains a cornerstone of India’s energy security and economic engine, yet climate commitments and technological progress demand a cleaner and smarter approach. With strategic reforms, reduced imports, and an eye on clean coal technologies, India can ensure energy self-reliance while pursuing a low-carbon development path.