Short notes on Current Affairs 02.02.2026

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Sacred exposition of the Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha

Overview & Context

  • India will undertake a sacred exposition of the Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka from 4–10 February 2026, with return on 11 February 2026.
  • The exposition represents a significant act of spiritual outreach and cultural diplomacy, reaffirming India’s role as the birthplace of Buddhism.
  • The relics are currently housed at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara.

Diplomatic & Civilisational Significance

  • The journey underscores India’s civilisational responsibility as a custodian of global Buddhist heritage.
  • It reinforces deep spiritual, cultural, and people-to-people ties between India and Sri Lanka.
  • The exposition serves as a soft power initiative, complementing formal diplomacy with emotional and cultural resonance.
  • It aligns with India’s people-centric foreign policy and vision for peace, stability, and cooperative coexistence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

High-Level Delegation & State Honours

  • The relics will be accompanied by a high-level Indian delegation, including:
    • Shri Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Gujarat
    • Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat
    • Senior Buddhist monks and government officials
  • The relics will travel aboard a special Indian Air Force aircraft with full state honours, reflecting their sanctity.
  • The delegation will participate in:
    • Formal inauguration ceremonies
    • Religious observances
    • Official and cultural engagements in Colombo
    • Exhibitions highlighting India’s Buddhist legacy and contemporary cultural engagement

Venue in Sri Lanka

  • The Holy Relics will be enshrined at Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo, a major Buddhist spiritual and cultural institution.
  • Founded in the late 19th century by Venerable Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera, the temple is:
    • A centre of worship, learning, and cultural exchange
    • An iconic and revered site within Sri Lanka’s Buddhist landscape
  • The exposition is expected to deeply resonate with Sri Lankan devotees, where Buddhism shapes daily life and cultural identity.

Origin & Archaeological Importance of the Devnimori Relics

  • The relics originate from the Devnimori archaeological site near Shamlaji in Gujarat’s Aravalli district.
  • Excavated in 1957 by Prof. S. N. Chowdhry, the site revealed:
    • Significant Buddhist structures
    • Evidence of the flourishing of Buddhism in western India during the early Common Era
  • The relics are both:
    • A priceless archaeological treasure
    • A living symbol of Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, and harmony

Description of the Relic Casket & Contents

Source: PIB
  • The relic casket was found 24 feet above the base of the Devnimori Stupa.
  • Made of green schist, inscribed in Brahmi script and Sanskrit with the phrase:
    • “dashabala sharira nilay” — “the abode of the Buddha’s bodily relic”
  • The casket consists of three parts:
    • Body
    • Lid
    • Knob with rounded top (dimensions precisely recorded)
  • Inside the casket:
    • A copper box containing holy ashes and organic material
    • Silk cloth
    • Beads
    • A gold-coated silver-copper amphora-like bottle with a screw-type lid
    • Black clay used as a protective covering
Source: PIB

Conservation & Preservation

  • The Holy Relics are currently housed in a sealed, air-tight glass desiccator.
  • The relics and associated objects rest on a cotton base to prevent deterioration.
  • This reflects India’s commitment to scientific preservation and respectful custodianship.

Cultural Diplomacy & Soft Power Impact

  • The exposition strengthens people-to-people connections between India and Sri Lanka.
  • It enhances mutual trust and reinforces shared values rooted in Buddhism.
  • The initiative positions India as a responsible global custodian of Buddhist heritage.
  • It contributes to regional harmony and cultural leadership in South Asia.

Continuity with India’s Global Buddhist Outreach

  • The Sri Lanka exposition builds on India’s tradition of exhibiting sacred Buddhist relics internationally.
  • Similar expositions have taken place in:
    • Thailand
    • Mongolia
    • Vietnam
    • Russian Federation
    • Bhutan
  • These exhibitions have attracted millions of devotees worldwide.
  • The initiative follows the recent repatriation of the Piprahwa Jewel Relics, celebrated as a national homecoming.

Broader Message & Conclusion

  • The exposition conveys the universal values of Buddha Dhamma:
    • Non-violence
    • Compassion
    • Coexistence
  • It symbolizes:
    • Peace and shared spiritual inheritance
    • The enduring friendship between India and Sri Lanka
    • Centuries-old civilisational ties rooted in mutual respect
  • The journey of the Devnimori Relics stands as a powerful fusion of faith, heritage, and diplomacy on the regional and global stage.

Gyan Bharatam

Overview & Policy Context

  • Gyan Bharatam is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Culture (MoC), Government of India.
  • Announced in the Union Budget 2025–26.
  • Aims to unearth, safeguard, preserve, and digitally integrate India’s vast manuscript heritage.
  • Seeks to balance cultural preservation with human capital development, ensuring intergenerational transmission of ancient knowledge.

Financial Outlay

  • The Standing Finance Committee (SFC) has sanctioned ₹491.66 crore.
  • Funding period: 2025–2031.
  • Resources are earmarked for infrastructure, digitization, conservation, research, and outreach activities.

Core Focus Areas (Five Verticals)

  1. Survey and Cataloguing
    • Nationwide identification and documentation of manuscripts.
  2. Conservation and Capacity Building
    • Physical preservation of manuscripts and training of conservation professionals.
  3. Technology and Digitization
    • High-quality digital imaging, storage, and AI-enabled platforms.
  4. Linguistics and Translation
    • Deciphering, translating, and contextualizing manuscripts across languages and scripts.
  5. Research, Publication, and Outreach
    • Academic research, public dissemination, and global accessibility of knowledge.

Institutional Framework

  • Establishment of a nationwide network of Cluster Centres (CCs) and Independent Centres (ICs).
  • These centres act as operational hubs for survey, conservation, digitization, and research.
  • A list of onboarded CCs and ICs has been annexed by the Ministry.

Progress & Coverage

  • 45 centres have been onboarded to implement activities across the five verticals.
  • 20 States / Union Territories have been onboarded as Nodal Coordinating Authorities for state-level implementation.
  • A survey application has been developed and shared with stakeholders for feedback.

Digitization Achievements

  • Over 7.5 lakh manuscripts have been digitized under the initiative.
  • 1.29 lakh manuscripts are currently accessible on the Gyan Bharatam Portal:

Technical Standards for Digitization

  • Imaging Standards:
    • Minimum 400 DPI, 24-bit colour scanning (600 DPI where required).
    • Use of non-destructive face-up overhead scanners with cold light.
  • Post-Processing:
    • De-skewing, cropping, light equalization.
    • Removal of digital noise (worm marks, stains) without compromising colour integrity.
    • 100% manual quality verification.
  • File Formats:
    • Master files: TIFF v 6.0 (LZW compressed).
    • Access copies: JPEG.
    • Searchable copies: PDF/A with indelible watermark.

Metadata & Cataloguing Framework

  • Multi-layered metadata structure including:
    • Descriptive metadata (content)
    • Structural metadata (navigation)
    • Technical metadata
    • Administrative metadata
  • Metadata fields cover:
    • Manuscript content, language, script, region, conservation status
    • Source institution, creation date, digital version details
    • File format, compression technology, object relationships
  • Metadata is supplied in CSV and XML formats with each digitization batch.

Digital Infrastructure & Preservation

  • Development of a fully functional, AI-integrated digital platform and mobile application.
  • Integration with the National Digital Repository (NDR) for global access.
  • Long-term digital preservation through:
    • LTO-9 tape storage
    • Cloud-based backup
    • Disaster recovery and cybersecurity systems

Technical Partnerships

  • Technical partners have been onboarded for:
    • Metadata creation and NDR integration
    • Deployment of scanners and digitization equipment
    • Platform and mobile app development
    • Hot, cold, and cloud storage hosting
    • Long-term archival and disaster recovery management

Conservation & Capacity Building Measures

  • A detailed manual on manuscript preservation and conservation has been prepared.
  • The manual has been shared with leading conservation experts for review and feedback.
  • Focus on building skilled manpower for long-term sustainability.

Governance & Parliamentary Disclosure

  • The information was provided by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
  • The disclosure was made through a written reply in the Lok Sabha, indicating parliamentary oversight and transparency.

Overall Significance

  • Gyan Bharatam represents a systemic, technology-driven approach to preserving India’s manuscript heritage.
  • It combines heritage conservation, digital innovation, academic research, and public access.
  • The initiative positions India as a global knowledge hub while safeguarding its civilizational memory for future generations.

‘Miniratna Category-I’ status to Yantra India Limited (YIL)

1. Major Decision

  • Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh approved the grant of ‘Miniratna Category-I’ status to Yantra India Limited (YIL).
  • The approval recognises YIL’s strong financial and operational performance within a short span since corporatisation.
  • It reflects the Government’s confidence in YIL’s management and growth trajectory.

2. Institutional Background

  • YIL was formed after the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) on October 1, 2021.
  • OFB was restructured into seven new Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).
  • YIL is:
    • A Schedule ‘A’ DPSU
    • Functioning under the Department of Defence Production
  • Earlier (May 2025), three other DPSUs were granted Miniratna Category-I status:
    • Munitions India Limited
    • Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited
    • India Optel Limited

3. Financial & Operational Performance

A. Revenue Growth

  • Sales increased from:
    • ₹956.32 crore (FY 2021–22, H2)
    • To ₹3,108.79 crore (FY 2024–25)
  • Indicates more than threefold growth in a short period.

B. Export Performance

  • Exports grew from:
    • ₹0 (FY 2021–22, H2)
    • To ₹321.77 crore (FY 2024–25)
  • Marks successful entry into international defence markets.

C. Key Product Portfolio

  • Carbon fibre composites
  • Glass composites
  • Aluminium alloys
  • Assembly products for:
    • Medium & large calibre ammunition
    • Armoured vehicles
    • Artillery guns
    • Main Battle Tanks (MBTs)

4. Significance of Miniratna Category-I Status

A. Enhanced Financial Autonomy

  • YIL’s Board can now:
    • Approve capital expenditure up to ₹500 crore
    • For new projects, modernisation, equipment purchase
    • Without prior Government approval

B. Strategic Implications

  • Faster decision-making
  • Greater flexibility in investments
  • Accelerated expansion and technological upgradation
  • Strengthened competitiveness in defence production

5. Policy & Reform Context

  • The corporatisation of OFB aimed to:
    • Enhance functional autonomy
    • Improve efficiency
    • Promote innovation
    • Ensure financial accountability
  • The Miniratna status signals that corporatisation reforms are yielding measurable results.

6. Alignment with National Strategy

The decision supports the Government’s broader defence and industrial policy goals:

  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)
  • Reduction of defence import dependence
  • Boost to indigenous defence manufacturing
  • Promotion of domestic industry participation
  • Strengthening defence exports
  • Positioning India as a global defence manufacturing hub

India AI Impact Summit 2026

1. Event Overview

  • India AI Impact Summit 2026 to be held in New Delhi (February 16–20, 2026).
  • Expected to be the largest among the four global AI summits held so far.
  • Reflects growing global momentum around:
    • Responsible AI
    • Inclusive AI
    • Impact-driven AI governance

2. Scale of Participation

A. Registrations & Global Interest

  • Over 35,000 registrations received ahead of the event.
  • Participation expected from 100+ countries.

B. High-Level Representation

  • 15–20 Heads of Government
  • 50+ Ministers
  • 40+ CEOs of major Indian and global companies
  • 500+ leading AI experts, innovators, researchers, and CTOs

C. Startup & Ecosystem Engagement

  • Showcase of 500+ AI startups
  • Around 500 sessions alongside the main programme
  • One of the most comprehensive AI-focused global gatherings

3. Pre-Summit Engagement

  • Over 1,300 proposals received for pre-Summit events.
  • 500+ pre-Summit events already conducted across:
    • Various sectors
    • Multiple regions (India and globally)
  • Summit framework includes 7 flagship events
  • Collective engagement of 3,00,000+ participants
  • Indicates strong national and international stakeholder involvement.

4. Evolution of the Global AI Summit Process

The Summit builds upon previous global AI engagements:

  1. Bletchley Park (UK) – Focus on AI risks
  2. Seoul – Emphasis on ethics and inclusion
  3. Paris – Operationalisation of shared AI principles
  4. India (2026) – Focus on implementation and real-world impact
  • Marks a shift from:
    • Risk awareness → Ethical principles → Operational frameworks → Execution & outcomes

5. India’s Strategic Positioning

  • Demonstrates India’s growing leadership role in global AI governance.
  • Aligns with India’s broader digital governance and technology diplomacy strategy.
  • Positions India as:
    • A responsible AI advocate
    • A bridge between developed and developing nations
    • A key voice in shaping global AI norms

6. Core Focus Areas

  • Translating AI vision into execution
  • Ensuring AI outcomes deliver real-world impact
  • Promoting:
    • Responsible innovation
    • Inclusive access
    • Global cooperation
    • Ethical AI deployment

7. Administrative & Logistical Details

  • Official website: impact.indiaai.gov.in
  • Media accreditation:
    • Mandatory for coverage
    • Applications through official portal
    • Deadline: 8 February 2026

8. Overall Significance

  • Largest AI summit hosted so far in the global process.
  • Reflects increasing global institutionalisation of AI governance.
  • Reinforces India’s role as:
    • A technology leader
    • A policy shaper
    • A convenor of multilateral dialogue on emerging technologies
  • Signals transition from principle-setting to action-oriented global AI cooperation.

Progress of Jal Jivan Mission

1. Overview of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)

  • Launched by the Government of India in partnership with States/UTs.
  • Objective: Provide functional tap water connections to every rural household at 55 litres per capita per day (BIS:10500 standard).
  • Progress:
    • August 2019: 3.24 crore connections (16.71%)
    • January 29, 2026: 15.79 crore connections (81.57%)
  • Achievements: 189 districts and 2,50,021 villages reported “Har Ghar Jal” as of December 31, 2024.

2. Impact and Benefits

A. Health & Social Benefits

  • WHO estimates:
    • Saves 5.5 crore women-hours daily spent on water collection
    • Prevents ~400,000 deaths from diarrheal diseases
  • Prof. Michael Kremer: Could reduce under-five child mortality by ~30%

B. Economic & Employment Benefits

  • IIM Bangalore & ILO research:
    • Millions of person-years of direct and indirect employment expected through Mission phases
  • Positive social, health, and economic transformation in rural areas

3. Community Participation

  • Village Water and Sanitation Committee (VWSC) / Paani Samiti / User Group:
    • 10–15 members per committee
    • 50% women, elected panchayat members ≤25%, SC/ST representation proportional to population
  • Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB): Launched under Jal Shakti Abhiyan (Catch the Rain campaign) on 6 September 2024
    • Focus: Community-driven water conservation, low-cost artificial recharge structures
    • Promotes participation from local communities, industries, and stakeholders

4. Water Quality Monitoring & Surveillance (WQM&S)

  • 2% of annual funds allocated by States/UTs for WQM&S
  • Activities include:
    • Laboratory strengthening
    • Community testing via Field Test Kits (FTKs)
    • Training for women (24.80 lakh trained so far)
  • Infrastructure:
    • 2,868 testing laboratories
    • 1,704 NABL-accredited
  • Transparency: JJM Dashboard “Citizen Corner” provides:
    • Village-level water quality results
    • Grievance redressal

5. Implementation & Monitoring

  • Strategies include:
    • Saturation plans
    • Regular reviews
    • Field visits for technical support
  • Budgetary support: Mission extended to December 2028 in Union Budget 2025–26

Employment Trends

1. Employment Trends

  • Employment data is collected through the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by MoSPI since 2017-18.
  • Survey period: July to June annually.
  • Worker Population Ratio (WPR) (usual status, age 15+) trends:
    • 2017-18: 46.8%
    • 2023-24: 58.2%
  • Indicates a rising trend in employment in India.

2. Skill Development Initiatives – Skill India Mission (SIM)

  • Implemented by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
  • Focus: Skill, re-skill, and up-skill training to make youth future-ready.
  • Key schemes under SIM:
    • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
    • Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS)
    • National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
    • Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) via ITIs
  • Coverage: All sections of society across the country.

3. Support for Unorganised Workers – e-Shram Portal

  • Launched on 26 August 2021 by Ministry of Labour & Employment.
  • Purpose: Create a comprehensive database of unorganised workers (including platform and migrant workers).
  • Provides Universal Account Number (UAN) on self-declaration basis.
  • One-Stop Solution: Integration of social security/welfare schemes, allowing workers to access benefits through a single platform.
  • Database size: 31+ crore unorganised workers registered.

4. Labour Reforms – Four Labour Codes

  • Codes formulated and implemented from 21 November 2025:
    1. Code on Wages, 2019
    2. Industrial Relations Code, 2020
    3. Code on Social Security, 2020
    4. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
  • Objectives:
    • Simplification & rationalisation of 29 previous Labour Acts.
    • Use of technology for transparency and accountability.
    • Enhanced protection for workers, including unorganised workers.

5. National Career Service (NCS) Portal

  • A one-stop platform for career-related services:
    • Job search and matching (government & private sector)
    • Career counselling, vocational guidance
    • Skill development & training courses
  • Integration:
    • With e-Shram portal to provide jobs to unorganised workers and gig/platform workers.
    • Partnerships: 35+ MoUs signed with private platforms (Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Zepto) to provide gig economy jobs.

6. Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme

  • Name: Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
  • Focus: Employment generation, employability enhancement, social security.
  • Special emphasis: Manufacturing sector
  • Outlay: Rs 99,446 crore
  • Goal: Create 3.5+ crore jobs over 2 years

7. Key Takeaways

  • Government is simultaneously focusing on:
    • Employment generation (ELI scheme, NCS portal, gig economy integration)
    • Skill development & employability (Skill India Mission, PMKVY, ITIs, NAPS)
    • Labour reforms & social security (Four Labour Codes, e-Shram)
  • Integration of technology platforms ensures efficiency, transparency, and greater reach.
  • Holistic approach includes both formal and informal/unorganised sectors, addressing modern workforce needs.

e-Shram Portal

1. Overview of e-Shram Portal

  • Launched by Ministry of Labour and Employment on 26 August 2021.
  • Objective: Create a comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW).
  • Provides registered workers a Universal Account Number (UAN) on a self-declaration basis.
  • Registrations as of 26 January 2026: 31.48 crore unorganised workers.

2. e-Shram – “One-Stop-Solution”

  • Launched on 21 October 2024 in line with Budget 2024-25 vision.
  • Integrates multiple social security and welfare schemes at a single portal.
  • Allows e-Shram cardholders to access benefits and track utilization of services.

3. Key Integrated Schemes

14 central schemes already integrated with e-Shram include:

  1. PMSVANidhi – Street Vendors
  2. PMSBY – Accidental Insurance
  3. PMJJBY – Life Insurance
  4. MGNREGS – Rural Employment
  5. PMAY-G – Rural Housing
  6. AB-PMJAY – Health Insurance
  7. PMAY-U – Urban Housing
  8. PMMSY – Fisheries
  9. PM-KISAN – Income Support for Farmers
  10. ONORC – One Nation One Ration Card
  11. PMMVY – Maternal Benefits

Other linkages:

  • NCS (National Career Service) – Job opportunities
  • Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) – Skill development
  • PM-SYM – Pension scheme
  • Convergence portal of MoHUA

4. Registration and Outreach Strategy

  • Self-registration: Web portal & mobile application.
  • Assisted registration:
    • Common Service Centres (CSCs)
    • State Sewa Kendras (SSKs)
    • UMANG platform
  • Awareness campaigns: Registration drives, community outreach, locally tailored communications.
  • Social media use: Dissemination of videos, tutorials, and informative content to engage workers.

5. Mobile Application

  • Launched: 24 February 2025
  • Purpose: Real-time access to e-Shram services and integrated welfare schemes.
  • Enhances convenience, accessibility, and coverage for unorganised workers, including:
    • Migrant labourers
    • Construction workers
    • Agricultural labourers

6. Key Takeaways

  • e-Shram portal is central to social security, welfare, skill development, and employment access for unorganised workers.
  • Integration with 14 central schemes and platforms like NCS, SIDH, PM-SYM ensures holistic support.
  • Multi-channel registration and outreach strategy improves coverage and accessibility.
  • Mobile application strengthens real-time access, convenience, and empowerment of unorganised workers.

PM-SETU Scheme

Overview of PM-SETU

  • Full form: Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs.
  • Purpose: Upgrade vocational education infrastructure and training quality to improve employability.
  • Focus: ITIs and NSTIs (National Skill Training Institute); not a dedicated startup or early-stage enterprise support program.

Key Objectives

  • Improve training delivery quality in ITIs and NSTIs.
  • Modernize infrastructure and equipment to meet industry standards.
  • Introduce industry-aligned long-term and short-term courses, especially in emerging sectors.
  • Strengthen industry linkages for demand-driven skilling and better employment outcomes.
  • Enhance capacity of NSTIs for training trainers (advanced skill development).

Scheme Components

  1. Component I – Upgradation of ITIs
    • Scope: 1,000 Government ITIs (200 Hub ITIs + 800 Spoke ITIs).
    • Model: Hub & Spoke.
    • Upgradation includes: Smart classrooms, modern labs, digital content, new courses aligned to industry needs.
  2. Component II – Capacity Augmentation of NSTIs
    • Scope: Five NSTIs – Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, Ludhiana.
    • Focus: Sector-specific National Centres of Excellence; advanced training for trainers with global collaboration.

Governance & Implementation

  • National Steering Committee (NSC): Chaired by Secretary, MSDE; sets overall vision, policy direction, operational guidelines, monitoring.
  • State Steering Committee (SSC): Chaired by Chief Secretary; oversees implementation at State/UT level.
  • State/UT Role: Select ITIs for upgradation in consultation with industry; submit proposals/RFPs to involve industry.
  • Industry Linkage: Central to scheme; ensures training meets local industrial and emerging skill needs.

Focus on Employability

  • Industry-led governance ensures demand-driven skills.
  • Supports self-employment indirectly by giving learners exposure to real work environments, career guidance, and placement support.
  • Does not provide direct financial support for startups or early-stage enterprises.

Key Takeaways

  • PM-SETU strengthens ITI and NSTI ecosystem through infrastructure, industry-aligned training, and governance reforms.
  • Hub & Spoke model promotes centralized hubs supporting multiple smaller ITIs.
  • Focus is on employability, skill relevance, and trainer capacity, not entrepreneurship funding.
  • Success depends heavily on industry collaboration and State/UT participation.

National Skill Training Institute

What is NSTI?

  • NSTIs are premier government training institutes under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
  • Their main role is to train trainers and provide advanced vocational training to meet industry standards.
  • They act as centers for high-quality skill development in emerging and traditional sectors.

Role in PM-SETU

  • PM-SETU includes Capacity Augmentation of five NSTIs located in Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana.
  • Objectives under PM-SETU:
    1. Upgrade infrastructure and training facilities.
    2. Set up sector-specific National Centres of Excellence for skill development.
    3. Provide advanced training of trainers, including global collaboration for best practices.
    4. Support industry-aligned vocational training, indirectly improving employability outcomes.

Key Points About NSTI

  • Focused on training trainers, unlike ITIs which primarily train students.
  • Acts as a hub for innovation and high-quality skill programs.
  • Enhances the capacity and quality of vocational training across the country.

PAIMANA – Project Assessment Infrastructure Monitoring and Analytics for Nation-Building.

Overview

  • Ministry: Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
  • Purpose: Monitor Central Sector Infrastructure Projects costing ₹150 crore and above.
  • New System: PAIMANA – Project Assessment Infrastructure Monitoring and Analytics for Nation-Building.
  • Launch Date: 25th September 2025.
  • Replaces: OCMS-2006 (Online Computerized Monitoring System).
  • Key Principle: “One Data, One Entry” – avoids duplicate data entry.

Integration & Functionality

  • Integration: PAIMANA is linked with DPIIT’s IPMP (Integrated Project Monitoring Portal) via APIs.
  • Data Flow: Central Ministries/Departments/Project Implementing Agencies update IPMP → Data automatically flows to PAIMANA.
  • Automation: About 60% of projects from Road Transport & Highways, Petroleum & Natural Gas, and Coal are updated automatically.
  • Output: Web-generated flash reports and analytical dashboards are available at https://ipm.mospi.gov.in/ReportPage.

Coverage

  • Project Count: 1,392 projects nationwide.
  • Original Cost: ₹29.68 lakh crore.
  • Cumulative Expenditure: ₹19.01 lakh crore.
  • Ministries/Departments Covered (17+2 onboarded):
    1. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
    2. Ministry of Power
    3. Ministry of Civil Aviation
    4. Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
    5. Department of Telecommunications
    6. Ministry of Coal
    7. Ministry of Railways
    8. Ministry of Steel
    9. Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation
    10. Ministry of Mines
    11. Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
    12. Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
    13. Department of Higher Education
    14. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
    15. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
    16. Department of Sports (recently onboarded)
    17. Ministry of Labour & Employment (recently onboarded)

Key Features

  • Centralized Data Repository: Captures project progress nationwide.
  • Automated & Web-Generated Reports: Reduces manual entry and human error.
  • Analytical Capabilities: Enables one-click analytics for decision-making.
  • Stakeholder Coordination: Monthly review meetings for evidence-based monitoring.
  • Future Enhancements:
    • Improved reports
    • Simplified input forms
    • Advanced analytics
    • Onboarding of more stakeholders/projects

Significance

  • Efficiency: Automated updates and centralized repository streamline monitoring.
  • Transparency: Real-time tracking of large infrastructure projects costing ₹150 crore and above.
  • Decision Support: Facilitates evidence-based project monitoring for Central Ministries/Departments.
  • Scalability: PAIMANA is being expanded to cover more projects and stakeholders, ensuring continuous improvement.

Key Takeaways

  • PAIMANA is a technology-enabled monitoring platform that replaces manual project tracking.
  • It integrates multiple portals (IPMP) for real-time project data updates.
  • Currently tracks 1,392 projects with ₹29.68 lakh crore investment.
  • Focuses on accuracy, automation, analytical reporting, and governance efficiency.

India as a Global Biopharma Hub

1. Strategic Context and Policy Direction

  • The Union Budget 2026–27 marks a strategic pivot toward biopharma and biologics as central pillars of India’s healthcare and manufacturing agenda.
  • The objective is to:
    • Position India as a global biopharma hub
    • Capture 5% of the global biopharmaceutical market
    • Transition from a generics-led model to an innovation-driven pharmaceutical economy
  • The shift is driven by:
    • Rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders
    • Increasing global reliance on biologics and biosimilars

2. What is Biopharma?

  • Biopharma refers to medicines developed using living biological systems (cells, microbes, fungi, etc.) rather than chemical synthesis.
  • Includes:
    • Vaccines
    • Monoclonal antibodies
    • Gene and cell therapies
    • Recombinant proteins
    • Modern insulin
    • Biosimilars
  • Biologics are:
    • More complex than conventional drugs
    • More targeted in action
    • Essential for treating chronic and complex diseases

3. Biopharma SHAKTI Initiative (Union Budget 2026–27)

Financial Commitment

  • ₹10,000 crore outlay over five years.

Core Objectives

  • Strengthen domestic development and manufacturing of biologics.
  • Reduce import dependence.
  • Improve India’s integration into global biologics supply chains.
  • Build a comprehensive end-to-end ecosystem.

Key Components

  • Expansion of NIPER network
    • 3 new NIPERs
    • Upgradation of 7 existing institutes
    • Focus on specialised workforce development.
  • Clinical Research Infrastructure
    • 1,000+ accredited clinical trial sites proposed.
    • Improve India’s global standing in advanced clinical research.
  • Regulatory Strengthening
    • Enhance CDSCO capacity with specialised personnel.
    • Improve regulatory timelines.
    • Align with global approval standards.

4. Why This Budget Intervention is Significant

  • Integrates four critical pillars:
    • Manufacturing scale
    • Skilled human resources
    • Clinical trial infrastructure
    • Regulatory efficiency
  • Signals movement up the value chain:
    • From cost-efficient generic manufacturing
    • To innovation-driven, high-value biologics production.
  • Balances:
    • Public health priorities
    • Economic competitiveness
    • Global trade positioning

5. India’s Existing Pharmaceutical Strength

  • 3rd globally in pharma production by volume.
  • 11th globally by value.
  • Strong generics manufacturing base.
  • Expanding focus on high-value biopharma products.

6. National Biopharma Mission (NBM) – “Innovate in India (i3)”

Overview

  • Launched in 2017.
  • ₹1,500 crore outlay.
  • Co-funded by World Bank.
  • Implemented by BIRAC under DBT.

Objectives

  • Build a $100 billion biotech industry.
  • Capture 5% of global pharma share.
  • Promote affordable vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.

Achievements

  • 101 projects supported.
  • 150+ organisations, 30 MSMEs involved.
  • 1,000+ jobs generated.
  • 850+ IP filings.
  • 120 technology transfers.
  • 7,000+ trained in regulatory/IP practices.
  • Clinical trial database with ~8 lakh volunteers.
  • Supported development of:
    • HPV and dengue vaccines
    • Cancer and diabetes biosimilars
    • ZyCoV-D (DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine)

Startup Catalysis

  • Backed nearly 10,000 bio-based startups since 2014.
  • Established ~100 incubation centres.
  • Examples:
    • Indigenous MRI scanner (Voxel Grids)
    • Biosimilar Liraglutide (Levim Lifetech)

7. BIRAC-led Biotech Innovation Support

  • Established in 2012 under DBT.
  • 95 bio-incubation centres nationwide.
  • Key schemes:
    • BIG (₹50 lakh grants)
    • SEED Fund (₹30 lakh equity)
    • LEAP Fund (₹100 lakh equity)
    • जनCARE – Amrit Grand Challenge (digital health innovation)
  • Focus on early-stage innovation and commercialisation.

8. Manufacturing and Industrial Policy Measures

Key Schemes

  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
  • Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI)
  • Bulk Drug Parks Scheme

Objectives

  • Reduce API import dependence.
  • Strengthen MSMEs.
  • Upgrade facilities to WHO-GMP standards.
  • Improve supply chain resilience.
  • Promote export competitiveness.

9. Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech (PRIP)

  • Launched in 2023.
  • ₹5,000 crore outlay.
  • Supports:
    • New drugs
    • Biosimilars
    • Complex generics
    • Precision medicine
    • Novel medical devices
  • Promotes Centres of Excellence at NIPERs.
  • Encourages industry–academia collaboration.

10. BioE3 Policy and Bio-RIDE Scheme

BioE3 Policy (2024)

  • Focus: Biotechnology for economy, environment, employment.
  • Priority areas:
    • Precision biotherapeutics
    • Biobased chemicals
    • Functional foods
    • Climate-resilient agriculture
    • Carbon capture
    • Marine and space biotech research.

Bio-RIDE Scheme

  • ₹9,197 crore outlay.
  • Integrates:
    • R&D
    • Industrial development
    • Biomanufacturing and biofoundries.
  • Encourages entrepreneurship and sustainable innovation.

11. Broader Policy Architecture

The article highlights a coordinated ecosystem approach involving:

  • Research funding
  • Startup incubation
  • Manufacturing incentives
  • Regulatory reform
  • Clinical infrastructure
  • Workforce development
  • Global competitiveness strategy

This represents a shift from fragmented schemes to a more integrated biopharma ecosystem model.

12. Overall Analytical Takeaways

  • India is deliberately repositioning itself from a “pharmacy of the world” (generics) to a biologics innovation powerhouse.
  • The Budget 2026–27 acts as a consolidation moment by:
    • Scaling prior missions
    • Deepening regulatory capacity
    • Expanding clinical infrastructure
  • The strategy links:
    • Health security
    • Industrial policy
    • Export competitiveness
    • Technological self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat vision)
  • If implemented effectively, these measures could:
    • Enhance affordable access to advanced biologics domestically
    • Strengthen global supply chain integration
    • Increase India’s share in the $1+ trillion global pharma market

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