1. North Eastern Region District SDG Index Report (2023–24) – Governance
Why in News?
NITI Aayog has released the second edition of the North Eastern Region (NER) District Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index Report for the year 2023–24. This index evaluates the performance of 121 districts across the 8 North Eastern states in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the NER District SDG Index
Developed by: NITI Aayog
In Collaboration With:
Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MoDoNER)
Technical Support: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
First Edition Released: 26 August 2021
Purpose:
Monitor district-level progress on SDGs
Assist in data-driven policy formulation and decision-making
Promote region-specific interventions and inclusive development
Smallest intra-state score variation: Only 5.5 points
Sikkim & Tripura:
All districts are Front Runners
Nagaland:
Notable progress but higher internal disparity (score range: 15.07)
No district in any state has achieved “Achiever” or fallen into the “Aspirant” category.
Significance of the Index
Promotes regional equity by identifying development gaps at the district level
Supports targeted development strategies in Northeast India
Reinforces India’s commitment to Agenda 2030 (UN SDGs)
Encourages inter-district benchmarking and competitive federalism
Highlights the need to ensure “No One is Left Behind”, a core SDG principle
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following organizations has provided technical support for the NER District SDG Index 2023–24? A. World Bank B. UNDP C. WHO D.IMF Answer: B. UNDP
What is the score range for the “Front Runner” category in the NER District SDG Index? A. 50–64 B. 65–99 C. 100 D. Below 50 Answer: B. 65–99
Which district secured the highest score in the 2023–24 NER SDG Index? A. Longding, Arunachal Pradesh B. Hnahthial, Mizoram C. East Sikkim D. Aizawl, Mizoram Answer: B. Hnahthial, Mizoram
Mains
Discuss the significance of the North Eastern Region District SDG Index in promoting regional equity and sustainable development. How can it influence governance at the grassroots level?
Highlight the challenges and opportunities in implementing SDGs in India’s North Eastern region. What role can district-level indices play in overcoming these challenges?
The NER District SDG Index shows consistent performance in states like Mizoram and Tripura. What policy lessons can other states derive from these findings?
2. Defence Accounts Department (DAD) – Defence & Security
Why in News?
The Defence Minister recently emphasized the critical role of the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) in enhancing the financial agility and operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces at the Controllers’ Conference 2025 held in New Delhi.
What is the Defence Accounts Department (DAD)?
Overview
Under: Ministry of Defence
Headed by: Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA)
Role: Central financial advisor and auditor for defence services
Established formally: October 1st, 1951
Historical Roots: Traces back to the Military Pay Masters of 1750 under the East India Company
Core Functions of DAD
Function Area
Description
Payments
Pays salaries, pensions, bills for services, supplies, construction, and repairs
Accounting
Maintains accounts of receipts and expenditures of Defence Services
Auditing
Conducts internal audits of all Defence-related expenditures and stores
Financial Advice
Provides financial guidance to defence procurement and planning units
Organizational Spread
Total Offices: Over 1,110 offices across India
Coverage Includes:
Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
Defence Ordnance Factories (41 units)
DRDO Labs and Projects (50 units)
Other Defence Bodies:
Indian Coast Guard
Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA)
Border Roads Organisation (DGBR)
National Cadet Corps (DGNCC)
Defence Estates
Canteen Stores Department (CSD)
Role of CGDA (Controller General of Defence Accounts)
Principal Accounting Officer for the Ministry of Defence
Prepares:
Appropriation Accounts
Annual Consolidated Accounts of Defence Receipts & Charges
Ensures timely, accurate, and transparent financial reporting for Defence budgeting and audits
Significance of DAD in Defence Preparedness
Strengthens financial discipline in procurement and expenditure
Enables timely disbursement of salaries and pensions
Supports faster acquisition cycles through financial advisory
Helps monitor and prevent leakages or misuse of defence funds
Acts as a vital bridge between operational needs and budgetary allocation
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following departments is responsible for auditing and accounting functions for the Indian Armed Forces? A. Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) B. Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) C. Defence Accounts Department (DAD) D. Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Answer: C. Defence Accounts Department (DAD)
Who heads the Defence Accounts Department (DAD)? A. Chief of Defence Staff B. Secretary (Defence Finance) C. Financial Advisor (MoD) D. Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) Answer: D. Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA)
Which of the following organizations is NOT directly supported by the DAD? A. DRDO B. DGQA C. Indian Railways D. Indian Navy Answer: C. Indian Railways
Mains
Explain the role and significance of the Defence Accounts Department in enhancing India’s defence preparedness. How does its functioning impact operational efficiency?
Discuss the historical evolution of the Defence Accounts Department and its current relevance in ensuring fiscal transparency in defence expenditure.
How does the Defence Accounts Department support financial accountability within the Ministry of Defence? Evaluate its contribution to improving procurement and budgeting mechanisms.
3. Invisible Exports of India – Economy
Why in News?
As of 2024–25, India’s invisible exports—which include services exports and remittances—have:
Surpassed merchandise exports, and
Become a key stabilizer of the Current Account Deficit (CAD) in India’s Balance of Payments (BoP).
What are Invisible Exports?
Definition
Invisible exports refer to international trade in services and income flows that:
Do not involve physical goods, and
Often occur via digital platforms or financial systems.
These are also referred to as non-merchandise exports.
Funds sent home by NRIs and Indian migrant workers abroad
Primary Income
Interest, dividends, profits from Indian investments abroad
Secondary Income
Gifts, grants, and workers’ remittances
Performance Snapshot (2024–25)
Trade Category
Value (in USD Billion)
Gross Invisible Receipts
$576.5 billion
– Of which, Services
$387.5 billion
– Remittances
$135.4 billion
Merchandise Exports
$441.8 billion
Merchandise Trade Deficit
-$287.2 billion
Net Invisible Surplus
+$263.8 billion
Net Current Account Deficit
$23.4 billion
Significance of Invisible Exports
Economic Stability
Acts as a buffer against merchandise trade deficits.
Helps maintain BoP stability even during global economic shocks.
Resilience
Invisible exports remained robust during:
2008 Global Financial Crisis
COVID-19 Pandemic
Employment & Human Capital
Driven by skilled workforce, not capital-intensive infrastructure.
Strengthens India’s image as the “Office of the World”.
Low Policy Dependence
Growth largely achieved without major government subsidies or trade agreements.
India still lacks strong services-sector provisions in FTAs.
Key Characteristics of Invisible Exports
Feature
Description
Non-physical
No goods cross borders
Digitally enabled
IT, financial, legal services are digitally traded
Human-capital intensive
Relies on skilled labor, not physical resources
Low logistics cost
No shipping or warehousing involved
Less exposed to tariffs
Fewer trade barriers compared to goods
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following is considered an example of an invisible export? A. Export of crude oil B. Export of tea C. Software services provided by TCS to a US client D. Shipment of electronics to Africa Answer: C. Software services provided by TCS to a US client
Invisible exports are recorded under which part of the Balance of Payments (BoP)? A.Capital Account B. Financial Account C. Current Account D. Fiscal Account Answer: C. Current Account
Which of the following contributes to India’s invisible exports?
Tourism
Remittances
IT services
Export of pharmaceuticals A.1, 2, and 3 only B. 2 and 4 only C.1 and 4 only D. All of the above Answer: A. 1, 2, and 3 only
Mains
Discuss the role of India’s invisible exports in maintaining macroeconomic stability. How have they contributed to managing the current account deficit?
India has emerged as a global leader in service exports despite limited policy incentives. Critically examine the factors behind this success.
In the context of India’s Balance of Payments, compare and contrast the performance of merchandise and invisible trade in recent years. What policy changes are needed to sustain this momentum?
4. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve – Environment
Why in News?
The Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) in Uttar Pradesh has reported an impressive 198.91% increase in Leopard population since 2022, reflecting the success of conservation strategies and improved habitat protection.
Key Facts about Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Feature
Details
Location
Lakhimpur Kheri District, Uttar Pradesh; shares border with Nepal
Constituents
Comprises Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserve Declaration
Declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1987
Ecological Region
Falls under the Tarai-Bhabar belt of the Upper Gangetic Plains Biogeographic Zone
Significant Rivers
Sharda, Geruwa, Suheli, Mohana – all tributaries of the Ghagra River
Habitat and Vegetation
Type: North Indian Moist Deciduous Forests
Known for dense Sal forests (Shorea robusta) – among the finest in India.
Associated species:
Terminalia alata (Asna)
Lagerstroemia parviflora (Asidha)
Adina cordifolia (Haldu)
Tarai-Bhabar Habitat:
Tarai: Marshy, fertile, low-lying land – rich in biodiversity.
Bhabar: Porous region at the foothills of the Himalayas – water percolates here before emerging in the Tarai.
Fauna Diversity
Species Category
Examples
Big Cats
Tiger, Leopard (Panthera pardus)
Small Carnivores
Fishing Cat, Jackals, Mongoose
Primates
Monkeys, Langurs
Others
Wild Boar, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer
Notable Success: Leopard population increased by nearly 200%, indicating improved prey base, reduced conflict, and effective anti-poaching measures.
Conservation Importance
Acts as a transboundary conservation area (India–Nepal corridor)
Vital for landscape-level connectivity under Project Tiger
Rich in wetlands and riparian ecosystems, contributing to ecosystem services like groundwater recharge and flood regulation
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following rivers does NOT flow through the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve? A. Sharda B. Geruwa C. Chambal D. Suheli Answer: C. Chambal
The vegetation of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is best classified as: A. Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest B. North Indian Moist Deciduous Forest C. Tropical Thorn Forest D. Western Himalayan Subalpine Forest Answer: B. North Indian Moist Deciduous Forest
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve shares its international boundary with which country? A. Bhutan B. China C. Nepal D. Bangladesh Answer: C. Nepal
Mains
Discuss the ecological significance of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. How do recent trends in leopard population highlight the success of conservation efforts in the Tarai-Bhabar landscape?
Explain the role of the Tarai-Bhabar region in supporting biodiversity in Northern India. How does this ecosystem contribute to India’s conservation objectives?
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is part of India’s transboundary wildlife corridors. Analyze the challenges and opportunities of managing such protected areas along international borders.
On July 5, 2024, the Kashmir Valley recorded its highest day temperatures in over 70 years, with Pahalgam registering its hottest day ever. This comes shortly after Kashmir experienced its hottest June in nearly 50 years, raising concerns over climate change impacts and urbanization-driven heating.
Key Facts and Figures
Climate Indicator
Record (2024)
Hottest June
In nearly 50 years
Temperature Deviation
+3°C above normal
Srinagar Temperature (July 5)
37.4°C (highest in 70+ years)
Pahalgam
All-time record temperature
Kashmir’s Natural Climate Profile
Seasons: Four distinct – spring, summer, autumn, and winter
Winters: Harsh, snowy, long
Summers: Traditionally mild; now showing a warming trend
Elevation: High-altitude temperate zone, usually not prone to extreme heat
Factors Behind the Heatwave
1. Climate Change (Global Warming)
Increased baseline temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions
Longer and more intense heatwaves globally and regionally
2. Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect
Urban zones like Srinagar are heating up more due to:
Dense concrete structures
Loss of vegetation and water bodies
Lack of green cover and open spaces
Hard surfaces absorb and re-radiate heat, trapping warmth in cities
3. Rapid Urbanization
Unregulated growth, construction, and infrastructure expansion in Kashmir’s urban pockets
Disruption of natural drainage systems, tree cover, and microclimate balance
Consequences of the Heatwave
Impact Area
Implications
Public Health
Rise in heat strokes, dehydration, and stress-related illnesses
Agriculture
Crop stress, reduced yields, early harvest failures
Stress on temperate ecosystems and alpine flora/fauna
Tourism
Decline in climate-based tourism appeal
Way Forward
Mitigation Strategies
Promote green infrastructure and urban greening
Enforce climate-resilient urban planning
Protect water bodies and increase tree cover
Monitor microclimate data for heat alerts and early warning systems
Adaptation Measures
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) for cities like Srinagar
Public awareness campaigns on heat safety
Improved access to cooling centers and water stations
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following factors contributes to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect? A. Increased forest cover B. High reflectivity of urban surfaces C. Presence of green rooftops D. Absence of vegetation and presence of heat-retaining materials Answer: D. Absence of vegetation and presence of heat-retaining materials
Which climatic region does Kashmir traditionally belong to? A. Arid zone B. Humid tropical zone C. Temperate highland zone D. Subtropical desert zone Answer: C. Temperate highland zone
The rise in Kashmir’s temperature in 2024 can be attributed primarily to: A. El Niño effect B. Urban Heat Island effect and climate change C. Increased solar radiation alone D. Decline in air pollution levels Answer: B. Urban Heat Island effect and climate change
Mains
Kashmir has historically been known for its mild summers, yet it has recently experienced record-breaking temperatures. Discuss the role of global climate change and urbanization in altering regional climate patterns.
What is the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect? Examine how this phenomenon has contributed to the intensifying heatwave conditions in Indian cities, including those in temperate regions like Kashmir.
The recent heatwave in Kashmir is a warning signal. Propose a set of integrated urban and environmental policies to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures in climate-sensitive regions.
6. Barilius imphalensis – A New Freshwater Fish Discovery – Environment
Why in News?
A new species of freshwater fish, Barilius imphalensis, has been discovered in the Imphal River, Manipur. This highlights the ecological richness and biodiversity significance of freshwater systems in India’s Northeast.
Key Facts about Barilius imphalensis
Attribute
Details
Scientific Name
Barilius imphalensis
Local Name
Ngawa (Meitei language)
Discovered In
Imphal River, Manipur
Family
Danionidae
Subfamily
Chedrinae
Endemicity
Endemic to Imphal River (not found elsewhere)
Habitat Characteristics
Found in clear, shallow waters (3–5 feet deep)
Prefers gravel and cobble beds
Surrounded by dense riparian vegetation (riverbank greenery)
Thrives in undisturbed freshwater ecosystems, signaling ecological balance
Distinctive Features of Barilius imphalensis
Trait
Description
Barbels
Absent – differs from many other freshwater fish
Color Pattern
Short blue vertical bars along the body
Tubercles
Small bumps on snout and jaw
Lateral Line
Composed of 41 scales, used to detect water movement and vibrations – a key sensory adaptation
Ecological Significance
Biodiversity Indicator: Its discovery signals healthy freshwater ecosystems
Endemism: Being endemic, it highlights the unique biodiversity of Manipur and the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot
Conservation Need: Its narrow habitat range makes it vulnerable to habitat disturbance, pollution, and climate change
Conservation Implications
The discovery underlines the need to:
Protect freshwater habitats in Northeast India
Conduct biodiversity surveys and ecological monitoring
Prevent river pollution, sand mining, and encroachments
It supports calls for integrated river basin management in ecologically sensitive regions
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Barilius imphalensis, recently discovered in India, is a species of: A. Amphibian B. Freshwater fish C. Reptile D. Aquatic plant Answer: B. Freshwater fish
Barilius imphalensis is endemic to which river system? A. Teesta River B. Brahmaputra River C. Imphal River D. Subansiri River Answer: C. Imphal River
Which of the following features is NOT true about Barilius imphalensis? A. It has barbels on its snout B. It is found in shallow freshwater habitats C. It has 41 lateral line scales D. It belongs to the Danionidae family Answer: A. It has barbels on its snout
Mains
Discuss the ecological significance of freshwater biodiversity in Northeast India. How does the discovery of Barilius imphalensis emphasize the need for conservation of aquatic habitats?
What are the major threats to freshwater ecosystems in India? Suggest policy measures to protect endemic aquatic species in fragile habitats like the Imphal River.
Explain the role of biodiversity discoveries in shaping environmental conservation policies. How can local communities be involved in protecting such species?
