{"id":6953,"date":"2025-12-11T16:55:19","date_gmt":"2025-12-11T16:55:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=6953"},"modified":"2025-12-11T16:55:20","modified_gmt":"2025-12-11T16:55:20","slug":"short-notes-on-current-affairs-10-12-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=6953","title":{"rendered":"Short notes on Current Affairs 10.12.2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Financial Assistance for Crop Failure under PMFBY<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strengthening Implementation &amp; Transparency<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Government is enhancing the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) using technology and structured monitoring to ensure timely, transparent crop insurance claim settlement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Serves as a single digital platform for all PMFBY operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Ensures data transparency, better coordination, and timely subsidy payments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Supports online farmer enrollment and upload of individual insured farmers\u2019 details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enables direct electronic transfer of claim amounts to farmers\u2019 bank accounts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DigiClaim Module (Operational since Kharif 2022)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Integrates NCIP with PFMS and insurance companies\u2019 accounting systems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Facilitates automated, transparent, and timely claim processing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Technology Integration for Accurate Yield Assessment<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Use of CCE-Agri App to capture and upload Crop Cutting Experiment (CCE) data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Insurance companies allowed to witness CCEs to reduce disputes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Land records integrated with NCIP for accuracy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Adoption of advanced systems like:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>YESTECH<\/strong> \u2013 Technology-based yield estimation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>WINDS<\/strong> \u2013 Weather data network for risk assessment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Awareness &amp; Outreach Efforts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Government supports awareness campaigns by States, insurance companies, banks, and CSCs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Crop Insurance Week (Fasal Bima Saptah) initiated from Kharif 2021 for mass awareness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Fasal Bima Pathshala<strong>s<\/strong> organized at village\/GP level to educate farmers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Meri Policy Mere Haath Initiative<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Nationwide campaign for doorstep distribution of hard copies of crop insurance policy receipts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Ensures farmers are aware of their coverage and policy details.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Government Use of AI in Agriculture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Objective of AI Adoption<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Improve <strong>crop productivity<\/strong>, <strong>sustainability<\/strong>, and <strong>farmer livelihoods<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Address agricultural challenges such as climate change, pest infestation, and lack of timely information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Key Government AI Initiatives<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A. \u201cKisan e-Mitra\u201d \u2013 AI Voice-based Chatbot<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Helps farmers with queries on:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PM Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kisan Credit Card<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Supports <strong>11 regional languages<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expanding to other government schemes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Handles <strong>8,000+ daily farmer queries<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Has already answered <strong>93 lakh+ queries<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Improves accessibility of government information and reduces dependency on physical centres.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">B. National Pest Surveillance System (AI-ML Based)<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Tackles <strong>pest-related crop loss<\/strong>, worsened by climate change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Uses AI\/ML to detect pests early through:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Image capture by extension workers and farmers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automated pest identification<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Currently:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Used by <strong>10,000+ extension workers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports <strong>66 crops<\/strong> and <strong>432 pests<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enables <strong>timely pest-management interventions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Also uses AI analytics with satellite imagery for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Crop mapping<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Crop\u2013weather monitoring<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">C. AI-Based Local Monsoon Onset Forecast Pilot (For Kharif 2025)<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Conducted with <strong>Development Innovation Lab \u2013 India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Uses a blended AI model combining:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>NeuralGCM<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ECMWF Artificial Intelligence Forecasting System (AIFS)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>125 years of IMD rainfall data<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Provides <strong>probabilistic local monsoon onset forecasts<\/strong> (critical for sowing decisions).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Messages sent via <strong>M-Kisan portal<\/strong> to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>3.88 crore+ farmers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Across <strong>13 states<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In <strong>5 regional languages<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Farmer impact survey<\/strong> (MP &amp; Bihar):\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>31\u201352%<\/strong> farmers changed planting decisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjusted sowing time, land preparation, crop choice, and input usage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Demonstrates <strong>high adoption and behavioral change<\/strong>, supporting climate-resilient farming.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Overall Analysis<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Government is <strong>mainstreaming AI<\/strong> in agriculture at multiple levels:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Information delivery<\/strong> (Kisan e-Mitra)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risk mitigation<\/strong> (pest surveillance)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Climate-resilient decision-making<\/strong> (AI monsoon forecasts)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Interventions show:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High farmer engagement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence-based adoption<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improved agricultural planning and reduced risk<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">AI deployment is clearly shifting from pilot projects to <strong>large-scale operational systems<\/strong>, benefiting millions of farmers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">DPIIT Working Paper on Generative AI &amp; Copyright (Part 1)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Background<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)<\/strong> has published <strong>Part 1<\/strong> of a working paper examining the relationship between <strong>generative AI and copyright law<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The paper reflects recommendations from an <strong>eight-member committee<\/strong> formed on <strong>April 28, 2025<\/strong> to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Assess whether current copyright law is adequate for generative AI issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recommend legal amendments if needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Assessment of Existing Approaches<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:17px\">The paper evaluates several existing global copyright solutions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Blanket exemptions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Text and data mining (TDM) exceptions<\/strong> (with or without opt-out)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Voluntary licensing frameworks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Extended collective licensing<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong><br>None of these models are fully suitable for India, according to the Committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Rejection of Zero-Price License Model<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Committee rejects the idea of a <strong>\u201czero price licence\u201d<\/strong> (allowing AI developers to use copyrighted works without compensation).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Reason: It would <strong>disincentivize human creativity<\/strong> and may lead to <strong>long-term decline<\/strong> in production of human-generated content.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Proposed Hybrid Licensing Model<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:17px\">The Committee recommends a <strong>new policy framework<\/strong> balancing rights of creators and needs of AI innovators:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Features:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Blanket Licence for Training<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>AI developers may use <strong>any lawfully accessed content<\/strong> for training without individual negotiations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Royalties Only Upon Commercialisation<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Payments are required <strong>only when AI tools are commercialised<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Royalty rates will be determined by a <strong>government-appointed committee<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rates will remain subject to <strong>judicial review<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Centralised Royalty Collection &amp; Distribution<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A single mechanism manages royalty administration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to reduce transaction costs, increase legal clarity, and ensure equitable access\u2014helping <strong>both large and small AI developers<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Bharat 6G Mission &amp; Alliance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Meeting Overview<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Chaired by <strong>Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia<\/strong> to review <strong>Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA)<\/strong> progress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Attendees included:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Minister of State Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secretary (Telecom) Dr. Neeraj Mittal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Sood<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Officials from key Ministries, academia, R&amp;D institutions, telecom service providers, and industry leaders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Focus: India\u2019s roadmap to <strong>emerge as a global 6G leader by 2030<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Government Vision &amp; Priorities<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Accelerate <strong>6G innovation<\/strong> to position India as a <strong>global leader<\/strong> in communication technologies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasis on <strong>synergy among seven B6GA Working Groups<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Four key priorities for 6G Mission:\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Leapfrogging technologies<\/strong> to stay ahead.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Examine the <strong>end-to-end value chain<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Break down complex challenges<\/strong> into solvable components.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set <strong>measurable quarterly targets<\/strong> for each Working Group.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Focus on <strong>inclusive benefits<\/strong>, reaching urban and rural communities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Technological and Strategic Highlights<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Collaboration between <strong>industry, academia, and entrepreneurs<\/strong> to advance <strong>6G IPR and standards<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Eight technical reports and whitepapers<\/strong> released covering:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spectrum<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AI-native networks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Green telecom<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Emerging applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RF sensing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Quantum communication<\/strong> highlighted as a practical frontier, with focus on its convergence with 6G and cybersecurity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Contribution to <strong>ITU IMT-2030 (6G) framework<\/strong>, emphasizing \u201c<strong>Ubiquitous Connectivity<\/strong>\u201d.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. 5G Innovation Ecosystem<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Release of <strong>three booklets<\/strong> documenting 100 <strong>5G Use Case Labs<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>\u201cFrom Infrastructure to Innovation\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 Lab evolution and impact.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201c5G Lab Book \u2013 Experiments in 5G Core, NR &amp; Use Cases\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 Technical guidance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201c5G Hackathon Book\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 Nationwide innovation challenge showcasing prototypes in agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation, disaster management, and security.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Gradation Awards<\/strong> conferred to top-performing labs for innovation, societal impact, and industry collaboration, including:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Punjab Engineering College<\/strong> \u2013 Agriculture, healthcare, security prototypes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Banasthali Vidyapith<\/strong> \u2013 Private 5G, AI, automation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IIT Roorkee (AMRIT)<\/strong> \u2013 5G\/6G R&amp;D, AI-edge solutions, patents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thapar University<\/strong> \u2013 Transport safety, accessibility, infrastructure innovations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Bharat 6G Alliance Expansion<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Grown from <strong>16 founding members to 84+ organisations<\/strong>, including startups, academia, R&amp;D institutions, and industry leaders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Focus areas of seven <strong>Working Groups<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spectrum, devices\/components, technologies, applications, sustainability, outreach, 6G use cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>International collaborations<\/strong> with global 6G alliances via MoUs and joint research initiatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Key Government Support<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>\u20b91-lakh-crore RDI Fund<\/strong> approved under Department of Science &amp; Technology (DST) via <strong>ANRF<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Boosts research in:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>AI-native networks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Semiconductors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photonics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sensing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cybersecurity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Satellite\u2013terrestrial integration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aim: Strengthen India\u2019s <strong>frontier R&amp;D for 6G<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Apex Council &amp; Feedback<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Members provided <strong>constructive suggestions<\/strong> to refine:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Standards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Testbeds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Ecosystem development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Actionable strategies for next phase<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. About Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Multi-stakeholder platform uniting <strong>academia, industry, startups, and public institutions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mission: Build a <strong>world-class 6G ecosystem<\/strong> in India focusing on <strong>R&amp;D, innovation, and standardisation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Plays a pivotal role in achieving <strong>India\u2019s vision of global leadership<\/strong> in next-generation communication technologies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">\u2018Sahakar Se Samriddhi\u2019<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Launch of the Vision<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Government of India created the <strong>Ministry of Cooperation<\/strong> and announced the vision <strong>\u201cSahakar Se Samriddhi\u201d<\/strong> to strengthen India\u2019s cooperative movement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aim: reform, modernize and expand cooperatives to bring prosperity through collective effort.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Expansion of Cooperative Network<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Under the vision of <strong>\u2018Sahakar Se Samriddhi\u2019<\/strong>, the Ministry of Cooperation is expanding cooperative institutions across India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A national plan is underway to establish <strong>new multipurpose Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)<\/strong>, <strong>Dairy Cooperative Societies (DCS)<\/strong>, and <strong>Fishery Cooperative Societies (FCS)<\/strong> in <strong>all panchayats and villages<\/strong> within five years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">As of <strong>15 November 2025<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>30,083<\/strong> new PACS\/DCS\/FCS registered.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>15,793<\/strong> Dairy and Fisheries cooperatives strengthened.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Capacity-Building and Technical Support<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Training provided by:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>National Council for Cooperative Training (NCCT)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">NCCT conducted <strong>153 training programmes<\/strong>, training <strong>6,817 PACS personnel<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Under the <strong>PACS Computerisation Project<\/strong>, capacity-building includes:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Webinars, helplines, multilingual user manuals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support for modules like accounting, procurement, credit, and distribution<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)<\/strong> supports dairy cooperatives in training, animal health, breeding, feed\/fodder, cold-chain and digital tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)<\/strong> supports fisheries cooperatives through training, cage culture, biofloc, infrastructure grants, wetland management.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Under <strong>Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Formation of <strong>6,000 new FCS (2024\u201329)<\/strong> with <strong>\u20b93 lakh support each<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>1,225 FCS<\/strong> already funded across <strong>34 States\/UTs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Digital Transformation of PACS<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">All functional PACS are being brought under a <strong>common national ERP-based software<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">ERP system ensures:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Common Accounting System (CAS)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Management Information System (MIS)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Real-time data capture and transparency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faster loan disbursal, lower transaction costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seamless accounting with <strong>District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs)<\/strong> and <strong>State Cooperative Banks (StCBs)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The ERP contains <strong>22 modules<\/strong>, including:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Membership, Loans, Thrift Deposit, Savings, Term Deposit, Pigmy Deposit, Lockers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merchandise, Warehousing, Procurement, Public Distribution System (PDS)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Investments, Borrowings, Assets, Financial Accounting System (FAS)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Audits, Governance, Report Builder, Statistics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business Development Planning (BDP), Common Service Centre (CSC), Legacy Documents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">NABARD and the system integrator provide <strong>ERP training and operational support<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Digital Ecosystem Beyond PACS<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Digital systems expanded to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Agricultural and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central Registrar\u2019s Office for Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS)<\/strong> offices in all States\/UTs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Establishment of <strong>Sahakar Sarathi<\/strong>, a Shared Service Entity (SSE) approved by the <strong>Reserve Bank of India (RBI)<\/strong>, supporting modern audit and financial management in rural cooperative banks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Cooperative banks integrated under the <strong>RBI Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (IOS)<\/strong> for improved grievance redressal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>Cooperative Ranking Framework<\/strong> (launched 24 January 2025) evaluates cooperatives on digital, audit, operational and financial parameters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. National Cooperative Database (NCD) &amp; Digital Financial Inclusion<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>National Cooperative Database (NCD)<\/strong> houses data on <strong>8.4 lakh cooperatives<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Standard <strong>Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)<\/strong> enable real-time integration of State RCS portals with NCD, ensuring accurate reporting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Micro-ATMs<\/strong> deployed through Dairy and Fisheries <strong>Bank Mitra Cooperative Societies<\/strong> for transparent doorstep banking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS)<\/strong> integrated into PACS functioning as Bank Mitras, facilitating:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Secure digital transactions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Doorstep banking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traceable and transparent payment systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Key Policy and Regulatory Reforms<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Major policy initiatives include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Model Bye-laws for PACS<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National Cooperative Policy 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amendments to the <strong>Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Reforms aim to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make cooperatives multipurpose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve transparency and governance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure inclusive membership, especially for <strong>women and SC\/ST members<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Banking and Credit Support for Cooperatives<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Cooperative banks\u2014<strong>Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)<\/strong>, <strong>StCBs<\/strong>, <strong>DCCBs<\/strong>\u2014benefit from:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Regulatory relaxations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Branch expansion permissions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher operational and lending limits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Participation in <strong>Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)<\/strong> for collateral-free lending<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">These measures significantly increase credit availability for rural and agricultural cooperatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Financial Incentives and Tax Relief<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Tax benefits include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Surcharge reduced<\/strong> from 12% to 7% (income \u20b91\u201310 crore)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT)<\/strong> reduced from 18.5% to 15%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>15% tax rate<\/strong> for new manufacturing cooperatives (established before 31 March 2024)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">For PACS and <strong>Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs)<\/strong>, operational cash limits raised from <strong>\u20b920,000 to \u20b92 lakh per member<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Infrastructure and Capital Support<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>\u20b92,925.39 crore<\/strong> allocated for PACS computerisation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Under <strong>Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure (AMI) Scheme<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Margin money requirement: <strong>20% \u2192 10%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subsidy rate: <strong>25% \u2192 33.33%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extra subsidy for internal roads and weighbridges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Financial assistance provided:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>\u20b9190 crore<\/strong> to Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b998 crore<\/strong> to Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Cabinet-approved <strong>\u20b92,000 crore grant to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)<\/strong> enabling it to leverage <strong>\u20b920,000 crore<\/strong> for long-term and working-capital loans.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Support to Sugar Cooperatives<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A dedicated <strong>\u20b910,000 crore loan scheme<\/strong> launched through NCDC for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ethanol plants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cogeneration units<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Working capital<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Interest subvention<\/strong>: 6% per annum or 50% of actual interest for five years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Additional tax and GST reliefs include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Allowing pre-2016\u201317 payments to farmers as expenditure (benefit &gt; \u20b946,000 crore)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No additional tax on cane payments up to <strong>Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP)<\/strong> \/ <strong>State Advised Price (SAP)<\/strong> from April 2016<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Goods and Services Tax (GST)<\/strong> on molasses reduced from <strong>28% to 5%<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overall Impact<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthened cooperative institutions across agriculture, dairy, fisheries, banking, and rural development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Rapid digital transformation enabling transparency, efficiency, and real-time governance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Substantial financial incentives improving the viability and competitiveness of cooperatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strong boost to inclusive rural livelihoods through expanded services and technology-enabled access.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO\u2019s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Key Event<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Deepavali, one of India\u2019s most widely celebrated living traditions, has been <strong>inscribed on UNESCO\u2019s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The announcement occurred during the <strong>20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee<\/strong>, held at the <strong>Red Fort, New Delhi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The event was attended by:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Minister of Culture<\/strong>: Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secretary, Ministry of Culture<\/strong>: Shri Vivek Aggarwal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Senior Ministry officials, delegates from <strong>194 Member States<\/strong>, international experts, and UNESCO representatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Significance of the Inscription<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Marks a <strong>moment of pride<\/strong> for India and global communities practicing Deepavali.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Recognizes the <strong>timeless spirit<\/strong> of the festival and its universal message:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>\u201cTamso Ma Jyotirgamaya\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 the transition from darkness to light, symbolizing <strong>hope, renewal, and harmony<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Highlights the <strong>living, people-centric nature<\/strong> of the festival, supported by millions:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Artisans<\/strong> (potters, rangoli artists, decor makers)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Farmers and sweet-makers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Priests and households<\/strong> preserving age-old customs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Global and Diaspora Role<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Celebrated widely across: <strong>Southeast Asia, Africa, the Gulf, Europe, and the Caribbean<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Indian diaspora<\/strong> helps transmit the festival\u2019s message and build <strong>cultural bridges<\/strong> internationally.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Responsibilities and Implications<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">UNESCO inscription emphasizes <strong>safeguarding and transmitting Deepavali heritage<\/strong> to future generations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Citizens are urged to uphold <strong>inclusivity, unity, and community participation<\/strong> reflected in Deepavali.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Cultural and Social Significance<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Deepavali embodies principles of:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Unity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Renewal<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Social cohesion<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Practices associated with the festival include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lighting of diyas (lamps)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rangoli making<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Traditional crafts and rituals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Community gatherings<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intergenerational knowledge transmission<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Nomination Process<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Prepared by the <strong>Ministry of Culture<\/strong> through the <strong>Sangeet Natak Akademi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Based on <strong>extensive nationwide consultations<\/strong> involving:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Practitioners and artisans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agrarian communities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diaspora groups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persons with special needs and transgender communities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cultural organizations and tradition bearers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The nomination highlighted:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inclusive character<\/strong> of Deepavali<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Community-led continuity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wide <strong>ecosystem of livelihoods<\/strong> (potters, sweet-makers, florists, craftspeople)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. UNESCO Recognition and Global Impact<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Deepavali acknowledged as a <strong>living heritage<\/strong> that:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strengthens <strong>social bonds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports <strong>traditional craftsmanship<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reinforces <strong>values of generosity and well-being<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contributes to <strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Livelihood enhancement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gender equality<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural education<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Community welfare<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enhances <strong>global awareness of India\u2019s intangible cultural heritage<\/strong> and supports <strong>community-based tradition preservation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Maitri-II Research Station in Antarctica<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Project Overview<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India plans to <strong>replace the existing Maitri Research Station<\/strong> in Antarctica with a newly designed <strong>Maitri-II<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The new station aims to become a <strong>state-of-the-art, year-round Antarctic research hub<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Funding and Approvals<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>Ministry of Earth Sciences<\/strong> has approved <strong>\u20b929.2 crore<\/strong> for <strong>pre-investment activities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">This funding covers <strong>architectural design<\/strong> and the <strong>Detailed Project Report (DPR)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scientific Objectives and Capabilities<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Maitri-II is designed to <strong>significantly enhance India\u2019s multidisciplinary scientific research<\/strong> in Antarctica.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Key research areas include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Biology and microbial studies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Earth sciences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Glaciology<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Atmospheric sciences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Climate studies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long-term environmental and climate monitoring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Features of the Upgraded Station<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Modern, fully equipped laboratories<\/strong> for advanced scientific work.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Ice-core storage and processing systems<\/strong> enabling high-precision paleoclimate research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Dedicated biological and microbial research suite<\/strong> for cutting-edge life-science studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Expanded atmospheric observation facilities<\/strong> to improve climate and weather research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Enhanced logistics infrastructure<\/strong> ensuring <strong>uninterrupted, year-round scientific operations<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expected Impact<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Will greatly expand the <strong>scope, accuracy, and continuity<\/strong> of India\u2019s polar science.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expected to increase India\u2019s <strong>international relevance<\/strong> in Antarctic research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Will enable India to produce and contribute <strong>high-quality data and advanced findings<\/strong> to global polar science networks for decades.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Timeline<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Estimated project duration: <strong>7 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Target for Maitri-II to become fully operational: <strong>by 2032<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Deep Ocean Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exploration in the Central Indian Ocean Basin<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India is conducting seabed exploration in a <strong>75,000 sq. km area<\/strong> allocated by the <strong>International Seabed Authority (ISA)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The entire area has been <strong>uniformly sampled at 12.5 km intervals<\/strong> to assess:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Abundance of polymetallic nodules<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Metal grades<\/strong> within those nodules<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Additional activities include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Baseline environmental data collection<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Development of deep-sea mining technologies<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Development of metallurgical processes<\/strong> for extracting metals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Resource Estimates<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Total estimated polymetallic nodules: <strong>366 million metric tons (MMT)<\/strong> (dry weight).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Average metal composition:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cobalt:<\/strong> 0.14%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nickel:<\/strong> 1.14%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Copper:<\/strong> 1.09%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Manganese:<\/strong> 25.2%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">These metals are critical for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Battery technologies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renewable energy systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High-strength alloys<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Technological Developments Under Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT)<\/strong> is leading deep-sea mining system development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Purpose: <strong>Sustainable harvesting<\/strong> of polymetallic nodules from depths up to <strong>5500 m<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Key achievements:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>2021:<\/strong> Successfully completed <strong>mobility and system-powering trials<\/strong> of the mining machine at <strong>5270 m depth<\/strong> in the Central Indian Ocean.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MATSYA 6000: Human Submersible<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">NIOT has designed <strong>MATSYA 6000<\/strong>, a deep-sea human-rated submersible capable of descending to <strong>6000 m<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>February 2025:<\/strong> First successful demonstration of <strong>integrated system functionality<\/strong> with <strong>three people onboard<\/strong>, conducted in calm waters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Financial Assistance for Crop Failure under PMFBY Strengthening Implementation &amp; Transparency National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP) DigiClaim Module (Operational since Kharif 2022) Technology Integration for Accurate Yield Assessment Awareness &amp; Outreach Efforts Meri Policy Mere Haath Initiative Government Use of AI in Agriculture 1. Objective of AI Adoption 2. Key Government AI Initiatives A. \u201cKisan [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[592],"tags":[845,222,842,21,22,849,847,841,839,848,840,838,844,221,843,20,846],"class_list":["post-6953","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-short-notes","tag-aadhaar-enabled-payment-system","tag-bank-exams","tag-bharat-6g-mission","tag-competitive-exams","tag-current-affairs","tag-deep-ocean-resources","tag-deepavali","tag-department-for-promotion-of-industry-and-internal-trade-dpiit","tag-government-use-of-ai-in-agriculture","tag-maitri-ii-research-station-in-antarctica","tag-national-pest-surveillance-system","tag-pradhan-mantri-fasal-bima-yojana","tag-primary-agricultural-credit-societies","tag-rrb-exams","tag-sahakar-se-samriddhi","tag-ssc-cgl","tag-unescos-representative-list-of-the-intangible-cultural-heritage-of-humanity"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6953","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=6953"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6953\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6977,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6953\/revisions\/6977"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=6953"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=6953"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=6953"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}