The President of the European Commission and 21 EU Commissioners are visiting India for two days.
Historic Visit by EU Leaders
This is an unprecedented visit, as the EU has never sent such a large delegation to any country before.
The visit aims to strengthen EU-India ties, especially amid shifts in U.S. foreign policy.
Impact of Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The visit comes shortly after the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The EU recently imposed its 16th round of sanctions on Russia.
However, the U.S. has taken a different stance by voting against an EU resolution at the United Nations.
The EU is expected to discuss its continued support for Ukraine and the enforcement of sanctions against Russia.
India’s Position on Russia
India has rejected all sanctions against Russia and significantly increased its oil imports from the country since 2022.
New Delhi is unlikely to change its position, despite global pressure.
This visit is expected to focus on EU-India bilateral ties rather than disagreements over Russia.
Revival of EU-India Ties
There has been no annual EU-India summit since 2020, though a ‘Leader’s Summit’ was held in 2021.
Both sides are preparing for a major summit in 2025.
Talks on the EU-India Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), restarted in 2022, have seen little progress.
Key trade issues include tariffs on cars, wine, and spirits, along with non-tariff barriers.
Focus on Trade and Technology Cooperation
The visit begins with a Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting.
Key areas of discussion include AI policies, semiconductors, quantum computing, and green technology.
The EU-India Strategic Roadmap (2020-2025) will also be updated, with a focus on cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
Indian ministers, industry leaders, and EU officials will hold meetings to push forward economic and strategic partnerships.
Practice Question: How does the evolving EU-India partnership reflect shifting global geopolitical dynamics? Examine the key areas of cooperation and challenges in their bilateral ties. (150 Words /10 marks)
2. Coal-fired power plants in India cut rice, wheat yield by up to 10%
Topic: GS3 – Agriculture, GS3 – Environment
Context
Researchers from Stanford University, found that coal-fired power plants in India are reducing rice and wheat yields by up to 10% in several states.
How NO2 Affects Crops
The study focuses on nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a pollutant from coal plants that harms plant health and lowers crop productivity.
NO2 is phytotoxic, meaning it stresses plants and disrupts essential enzymatic activities.
It contributes to ozone formation, which further damages crops and reduces available sunlight for photosynthesis.
The study establishes a direct link between coal power emissions and crop damage, which had not been done at the power-plant level in India before.
Tracking Pollution and Crop Health
Due to a lack of ground monitoring stations in agricultural areas, the researchers used satellite images to analyze NO2 concentration.
They used near-infrared reflectance of vegetation (NIRv) as an indicator of plant health, which is closely related to chlorophyll levels in crops.
State-Wise Pollution Trends
Chhattisgarh had the highest share of NO2 pollution from coal plants, with 19% in monsoon and 12.5% in winter.
Uttar Pradesh had high NO2 levels overall, but a small portion came from coal power.
Tamil Nadu had low NO2 pollution, but most of it was from coal-fired power plants.
Monetary Loss and Agricultural Impact
Coal-related wheat and rice losses were valued at ₹15 lakh ($17,370)/GWh and ₹11.7 lakh ($13,420)/GWh, respectively.
A small number of highly polluting power stations contributed to 50% of rice and wheat losses, indicating targeted pollution control could bring significant benefits.
In West Bengal, 5.7% of cropland near coal-fired plants could see a 5-10% yield increase if pollution is controlled.
In Madhya Pradesh, 5.9% of cropland could gain 5-10%, while 11.9% could gain over 10%.
Potential Gains for India’s AgricultureIndia could gain ₹7,000 crore annually, with ₹420 million from rice and ₹400 million from wheat if pollution from coal power plants is reduced.
Between 2011 and 2020, rice and wheat yields grew at just 1.7% and 1.5% annually, making these potential gains significant.
Coal Power’s Role and Policy Suggestions
The 2025-2026 Union Budget increased coal sector funding by 255%, highlighting India’s reliance on coal for economic growth.
Meanwhile, India ranked 105th out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2024, underlining the need to boost food production.
Experts suggest prioritizing pollution-control measures at power plants near agricultural areas to maximize benefits for both health and food security.
Practice Question: Discuss the impact of coal-fired power plants on India’s agricultural productivity, with a focus on nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) pollution. (150 Words /10 marks)
3. Delimitation Debate: Southern States Fear Loss of Political Representation
Topic: GS2 – Polity
Context
The Union Home Minister assured that southern states would not lose parliamentary seats after delimitation, addressing concerns over potential political representation shifts.
Analysis of the news:
What is Delimitation?
Delimitation is the constitutional process of redrawing electoral boundaries and reallocating seats in Parliament and State Assemblies based on the latest population data.
It ensures equitable representation, preventing significant disparities in constituency sizes.
The last major delimitation occurred in 1976, with seat allocation frozen to encourage family planning efforts in high-growth states.
In 2001, only constituency boundaries were adjusted, but seat numbers remained unchanged.
Concerns of Southern States
Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh fear that delimitation based on the latest population figures would reduce their parliamentary representation.
Since these states have successfully controlled population growth, they worry about losing political influence to northern states, which have higher population growth rates.
Political leaders have openly voiced concerns that a population-based delimitation would unfairly advantage states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Data on Seat Redistribution
If the average population per constituency remains around 10.11 lakh (as in 1977), Lok Sabha strength could rise to nearly 1,400 seats, with UP and Bihar gaining significantly.
Even with a revised average of 20 lakh per constituency (707 seats) or 15 lakh (942 seats), northern states would still gain disproportionately.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala would see little or no increase, while UP and Bihar would gain dozens of additional seats.
Impact on Electoral Politics
A population-based delimitation could shift electoral dominance towards the Hindi heartland, potentially benefiting national parties like the BJP, which has a stronger presence in the North.
Regional parties in South India, as well as the Congress, which has relied heavily on South Indian support in recent elections, may find themselves at a disadvantage.
This could significantly alter political strategies and coalition dynamics ahead of future elections.
Conclusion
The delimitation debate highlights the complex balance between democratic representation and regional equity.
While ensuring proportional representation is essential, it must not come at the cost of politically and economically stable regions feeling disadvantaged.
A pragmatic approach that safeguards the interests of all states while upholding constitutional mandates is necessary for national unity and governance effectiveness.
PYQ: With reference to the Delimitation Commission consider the following statements: (2012) The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law.When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modification in the orders. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (c)
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the delimitation process in India. How can the government ensure a fair and balanced representation of states in Parliament while addressing concerns of regional disparities? (150 Words /10 marks)
4. Madhya Pradesh Strengthens Gharial Conservation with New Release in Chambal
Topic: GS3 – Environment – Conservation
Context
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav released 10 gharials into the Chambal River to boost conservation efforts for the critically endangered species.
Analysis of the news:
About Gharial
It is a freshwater crocodile belonging to the Crocodylia Order and Crocodylidae Family. Scientific Name: Gavialis gangeticus Distribution:
Historically, the gharial’s range spanned the rivers of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Today, only fragmented populations remainin Nepan and northern India.
Their major population occurs in three tributaries of the Ganga River: the Chambal and Girwa Rivers in India and the Rapti-Naryani River in Nepal.
The Gharial reserves of India are located in three States: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Significance of Gharials
Gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) are critically endangered, fish-eating crocodilians crucial for maintaining river ecosystems by controlling fish populations and cleaning up carrion.
Their presence indicates a healthy riverine habitat.
Threats to Gharials
Historically, overhunting for skins and traditional medicine reduced their numbers. Modern threats include:
Habitat destruction due to dams, irrigation canals, and sand mining.
Pollution degrading water quality.
Fishing nets, which entangle and kill gharials.
Conservation Initiatives
Madhya Pradesh, home to over 80% of India’s gharials, has led conservation efforts through:
Captive breeding and reintroduction to boost population.
Strict river protection measures to curb sand mining and pollution.
Community engagement to raise awareness and reduce threats.
Role of Chambal Sanctuary
Spanning three states, the National Chambal Sanctuary is a vital stronghold for gharials, ensuring their survival. It has also helped restore populations in Punjab’s Sutlej and Beas Rivers.
Conclusion
Madhya Pradesh’s sustained conservation efforts have led to a gharial resurgence.
Continued habitat protection, pollution control, and scientific monitoring are essential to ensuring the species’ long-term survival.
Features and Conservation status
Features:
The gharial is one of the largest of all crocodilian species, with males reaching 16 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) in length.
Females typically grow to lengths of 11.5 to 15 feet (3.5 to 4.5 meters). They have thick skin covered with smooth epidermal scales that do not overlap.
The snout of the gharial is uniquely the thinnest and most elongated among all the crocodilians.
In addition, the adult males sport a large bulb at the tip of their snout, called the ‘ghara’.
The teeth are more numerous than any other crocodylian species.
It is also the most aquatic of all crocodilians, for it never moves far from the water.
Because of their weak leg muscles, gharials are poorly equipped for locomotion on land.
Conservations Status: The global population of gharials has been reduced from 5000 in the 1940s to a few hundred individuals in the wild.
IUCN Red List: Critically endangered.Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule ICITES: Appendix I
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of gharials in maintaining river ecosystems and examine the conservation challenges they face in India. What measures have been taken to protect them, particularly in Madhya Pradesh? (150 Words /10 marks)
5. India’s ‘Look East’ Policy Has Transformed Into ‘Act East’
Topic: GS2 – International Relations
Context
The Vice-President of India, while attending the first-ever Joint Mega Nyokum Yullo Celebration in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighted the state’s rapid infrastructure growth, including airports, rail and road connectivity.
Investment Potential in Power Generation
Arunachal Pradesh has the capacity to generate 50,000 MW of power.
Producing one megawatt requires an investment of ₹10 crore, creating an investment potential of ₹5 lakh crore.
The central government has been urged to utilize this opportunity for economic growth while preserving cultural heritage.
India’s Strength and Cultural Unity
India has grown into a strong nation where no external force can pose a threat.
The Vice-President stressed the importance of nationalism and dedication to the country.
He emphasized India’s cultural unity, stating that festivals across different regions reflect the country’s shared traditions.
Recognition of Efforts for Development
The leadership at the central level has played a key role in the continuous progress of Arunachal Pradesh.
The vision of building the Frontier Highway was acknowledged as a major step toward further connectivity and growth.
Nyokum Yullo Celebration in Arunachal Pradesh
Nyokum Yullo is a major festival celebrated by the Nyishi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh.
It is a harvest festival observed to seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and a bountiful harvest.
The festival is celebrated annually on February 26 with traditional rituals, prayers, and community feasts.
It involves sacrificial offerings to deities, traditional dances, and folk songs.
People dress in traditional attire and participate in cultural programs.
The festival promotes social harmony by bringing different communities together.
It is an important event for preserving indigenous traditions and strengthening cultural identity.
Differences Between Look East Policy and Act East Policy
Aspect
Look East Policy (LEP)
Act East Policy (AEP)
Introduced By
Launched by P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1991
Introduced by Narendra Modi in 2014
Objective
Focused on economic and trade ties with Southeast Asian nations
Expanded focus to strategic, security, cultural, and people-to-people ties
Approach
Primarily diplomatic and trade-oriented
Emphasizes proactive engagement and implementation of projects
Geographical Scope
Mainly engaged with ASEAN countries
Extended engagement to Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Pacific nations
Strategic Focus
Less emphasis on defense and security cooperation
Strengthened defense partnerships, maritime security, and infrastructure projects
Infrastructure Development
Limited involvement in connectivity projects
Focuses on Northeast India’s connectivity with ASEAN through highways, rail, and air links
Implementation
Lacked concrete action and execution
More practical, result-oriented, and strategic initiatives
Increased military exercises and defense partnerships with ASEAN and QUAD members
Economic Impact
Laid the foundation for economic ties
Strengthened India’s trade, investment, and industrial collaboration with the region
Practice Question: Discuss the evolution of India’s engagement with Southeast Asia from the Look East Policy to the Act East Policy. How has this transformation impacted India’s strategic and economic relations with the region? (250 Words /15 marks)
6. Animal Welfare Board of India to Honour Champions of Animal Protection
Topic: GS2 – Governance
Context
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) will host the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony on February 27, 2025, in New Delhi.
The event will recognize individuals, organizations, and institutions for their contributions to animal welfare.
Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI):
Established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
Functions under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana.
Primary Role: Advises the government on animal welfare laws and promotes animal protection measures.
Regulates animal experimentation, circuses, and entertainment industries involving animals.
Encourages the establishment of animal shelters, gaushalas, and rescue centers.
Provides financial assistance to recognized animal welfare organizations.
Conducts awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership and cruelty prevention.
Oversees the implementation of animal birth control programs for stray animals.
Prelim Facts
1. NASA’s SPHEREx Telescope to Unveil Cosmic Mysteries with Unprecedented Infrared Mapping
Context
NASA is set to launch the SPHEREx telescope on February 28 to map the universe in infrared light and study cosmic inflation, galaxy formation, and life-forming molecules.
Analysis of the news:
Mapping the Universe in Unprecedented Detail
The Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer (SPHEREx) is set to revolutionize cosmic mapping.
Unlike previous telescopes that focused on specific regions, SPHEREx will create the most detailed and colorful sky map using 102 infrared colors.
This data will help scientists uncover hidden structures of galaxies and distant celestial objects, offering a more comprehensive view of the universe’s evolution.
Probing Cosmic Inflation and the Universe’s Early Expansion
One of the key objectives of SPHEREx is to investigate cosmic inflation—a rapid expansion of the universe that occurred around 14 billion years ago.
By analyzing the 3D distribution of 450 million galaxies across time, SPHEREx will test theories about how the universe expanded at speeds faster than light for a fraction of a second.
Understanding inflation could resolve mysteries about the large-scale structure and uniformity of the cosmos.
Unraveling the Origins of Life in the Milky Way
SPHEREx will play a crucial role in identifying biogenic molecules—such as water, carbon, and oxygen—frozen in the icy particles of the Milky Way.
These molecules are essential for life and exist in some of the coldest regions of space.
By mapping their locations, the telescope will help scientists understand how these life-forming elements traveled to Earth and other planetary systems, shedding light on the origins of life.
SPHEREx’s groundbreaking mission, with its two-year timeline, promises to deepen our understanding of the universe’s formation, the evolution of galaxies, and the potential for life beyond Earth.
2. “Gold Card” Visa Program
Context
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new visa initiative called the “Gold Card” program, which offers permanent residency and a pathway to citizenship for foreign investors willing to pay $5 million.
This program is set to replace the EB-5 immigrant investor visa scheme.
Analysis of the news:
Comparison: EB-5 vs. Gold Card
EB-5 Program: Introduced in 1990, the EB-5 visa grants Green Cards to foreign investors who invest at least $1.05 million ($800,000 in specific areas) in U.S. businesses and create at least 10 jobs.
Gold Card Program: Unlike EB-5, the Gold Card does not require investment in businesses or job creation. Instead, it offers a straightforward purchase of a Green Card for $5 million.
Potential Benefits for the U.S.
The program could attract high-net-worth individuals, boosting real estate, luxury markets, and economic investment.
A simpler, high-cost model could reduce fraud, which has plagued the EB-5 program.
Concerns and Criticism
Ethical and Political Issues: The scheme essentially puts U.S. residency and citizenship up for sale, favoring the wealthy over skilled professionals.
Economic Contribution: Without job creation requirements, it may not contribute significantly to the U.S. economy.
Security Risks: Possible concerns over money laundering and foreign influence, particularly from Russian oligarchs and other controversial figures.
Policy Debate: Raises questions about whether U.S. immigration should prioritize investment or skills and diversity.
Challenges Ahead
Congressional Approval: Immigration reforms need congressional backing. While Republicans have a majority, bipartisan resistance is likely.
Legal Challenges: Lawsuits may arise regarding the administration and execution of the program.
Impact on Indian Investors
In 2023, only 631 Indians obtained EB-5 visas, despite the lower investment threshold.
Given the steep price of $5 million (~₹43 crore), the Gold Card may not attract many Indian applicants.
3. RBI Survey Reveals Farmers Receive 40-67% of Consumer Prices for Rabi Crops
Context
A pan-India survey conducted by RBI officials (May-July 2024) analyzed the share of consumer prices received by farmers for major rabi crops.
Findings indicate that farmers’ share varies between 40-67%, with non-perishable crops securing higher shares than perishable crops.
Analysis of the news:
Higher Share for Non-Perishables
Wheat Farmers Benefiting the Most: Wheat farmers receive 67% of consumer prices due to government procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP). Around 25% of surveyed wheat farmers sold their produce to the government, ensuring a stable market.
Rice Farmers’ Share: Estimated at 52%, consistent with previous survey trends.
Lower Share for Perishable Crops
Fruits and vegetables provide farmers a lower share (40-63%) due to high retailer and trader markups.
The perishability factor leads to price fluctuations depending on demand-supply conditions.
The unorganized supply chain of fruits and vegetables creates inefficiencies, compressing farmers’ earnings.
Farmers’ Share in Pulses and Oilseeds
Lentil Farmers: Receive 66% of consumer prices, while gram (chana) farmers get around 60%. A higher share is desirable to boost production and reduce import dependency.
Oilseeds: Rapeseed and mustard farmers receive 52%, slightly lower than the 55% recorded in 2021.
Supply Chain Challenges
The fruit and vegetable supply chain remains highly unorganized, involving multiple intermediaries.
Higher transaction costs (transportation, labour, rent) lower retailers’ markups, while post-harvest losses in perishables often increase consumer prices.
Digital Transactions on the Rise
Cash remains dominant in agricultural transactions, but the 2024 survey noted a significant increase in electronic payments compared to 2018 and 2022.
Weather and Irrigation as Key Factors
Farmers’ rabi sowing decisions are heavily influenced by weather forecasts and irrigation availability.
4. Archaeologists find Stonehenge-like circle in Denmark
Context
Danish archaeologists discovered a 2000 BC wooden circle, possibly linked to Britain’s Stonehenge, in Aars.
Analysis of the news:
Danish archaeologists discovered an ancient wooden circle in Aars, Denmark, which may be linked to Stonehenge.
The structure consists of 45 wooden piles arranged in a 30-meter diameter circle, spaced two meters apart.
It is estimated to date back to around 2000 BC, but further analysis is underway to confirm its age and purpose.
Similar timber circles used for sun worship have been found on the Danish island of Bornholm.
Excavations also revealed an early Bronze Age settlement with a chieftain’s grave and a bronze sword.
Archaeologists are investigating possible cultural links between Denmark and the builders of Stonehenge.
