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Demographic Dividend Economic growth potential resulting from a large working-age population relative to dependents.

➡️India’s Demographic Transition – From High Fertility to Low Fertility Society Why in News Recent demographic data and research show that India has quietly transitioned into a relatively low-fertility society, marking a major shift in the country’s population dynamics. “Demography is destiny.” — Auguste Comte India, once considered the archetype of a high-fertility developing country, is undergoing a silent demographic revolution, with fertility rates declining rapidly across most regions. 👉Drivers of Fertility Decline in India 1. Rising Female Education Higher educational attainment among women has delayed marriage and childbirth, reducing fertility rates. Example: States with higher female literacy such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu show TFR below replacement levels. 2. Urbanisation and Migration Urban lifestyles increase the cost of raising children and promote smaller family norms. Example: Growing urban populations in western and southern India. 3.Public Health Improvements Better child survival rates, vaccination programmes and maternal healthcare reduce the need for large families. 4. Changing Economic Structure Children increasingly shift from being contributors to household income to becoming investment projects requiring education and skill development. 5. Diffusion of Family Planning Norms Long-term family planning programmes and social awareness campaigns have normalised smaller families. 👉Regional Patterns 1. Southern and Western States States such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra have fertility rates well below replacement levels. 2. Northern States States such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Rajasthan still have relatively higher fertility rates, though they are declining. 3. Northeast Variation Some north-eastern states historically had higher TFR, but they are gradually declining. 👉Implications of India’s Demographic Transition 1. Demographic Dividend A large working-age population can accelerate economic growth if supported by employment and skills. Source: World Bank 2. Aging Population Declining fertility eventually leads to population ageing. India’s elderly population (60+) is projected to reach ~20% by 2050. Source: United Nations 3. Regional Economic Divergence Low-fertility states may experience labour shortages, while high-fertility regions remain labour-surplus. This could reshape internal migration patterns. 4. Fiscal and Social Policy Challenges Governments must invest in pension systems, healthcare infrastructure and social security for ageing populations. 👉Policy Priorities 1. Job Creation Harness demographic dividend through employment generation and skill development. Example: Skill India Mission 2. Strengthening Healthcare Systems Expand healthcare infrastructure to manage age-related diseases and long-term care. 3. Managing Internal Migration Develop policies supporting labour mobility and urban planning. 4. Social Security for Elderly Expand pension and social protection schemes. Example: Atal Pension Yojana Conclusion India’s demographic story is no longer about population explosion, but about managing the opportunities and challenges of a low-fertility, ageing society. Effective policies in employment, healthcare and social security will determine whether the demographic transition becomes a demographic dividend or burden.

• Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States (1933) Defines four criteria for statehood: 1. Territory 2. Permanent population 3. Government 4. Capacity to enter relations with other stat

➡️Why in News Climate change impacts such as sea-level rise, climate migration and fossil-fuel transition are challenging existing international legal frameworks, prompting calls for reforms in international law governing statehood, sovereignty and maritime zones. “Climate change is not only an environmental crisis but also a legal and governance challenge.” Rising sea levels and climate-induced displacement are exposing gaps in existing international law, requiring new legal frameworks to address emerging realities. 👉How Climate Change Challenges International Law 1. Sovereignty over Natural Resources The principle of Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources (PSNR) allows states to exploit resources such as oil, gas and minerals. However, global climate goals require reducing fossil fuel extraction, creating tension between national sovereignty and global climate commitments. Example: Proposals for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty 2. Threat to Statehood of Small Island States International law requires territory as a condition for statehood. Sea-level rise threatens low-lying island states, raising the possibility of territorial disappearance. Example: Pacific Island countries like Tuvalu and Kiribati face existential risks. 3. Climate-Induced Migration Climate change may force millions to migrate due to flooding, droughts and extreme weather. However, the 1951 Refugee Convention does not recognise climate refugees. This creates a legal protection gap for displaced populations. 4. Unsettling Maritime Boundaries Sea-level rise can shift coastal baselines, which determine maritime zones. Changes in baselines affect: • Territorial waters • Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) • Continental shelf claims This may trigger international maritime disputes. 5. Governance Gaps in Climate Law Existing climate agreements like the Paris Agreement mainly focus on emissions reduction, not on legal implications such as statehood loss or migration rights. 👉Possible Legal Reforms 1. Legal Recognition of Climate Refugees A new international framework under UNFCCC could provide legal recognition and protection for climate migrants. 2. Fixing Maritime Baselines Countries may adopt permanent baselines to prevent maritime boundaries from shifting due to sea-level rise. This would protect EEZ rights of vulnerable island states. 3. Revisiting Statehood Principles International law may need to recognise “deterritorialised states”, allowing countries to retain sovereignty even if territory becomes uninhabitable. 4. Strengthening Climate Justice Mechanisms International institutions should enhance climate finance, technology transfer and adaptation support for vulnerable nations. Example: Loss and Damage Fund under COP28. 👉Way Forward • Reform international legal frameworks to address climate-induced risks. • Expand climate migration protections. • Ensure equitable climate governance under UNFCCC. • Strengthen international cooperation on sea-level rise adaptation. Conclusion Climate change is transforming the foundations of international law, from statehood and sovereignty to migration and maritime governance. Addressing these challenges requires innovative legal reforms and stronger global cooperation.

➡️WHY IN NEWS Recent military strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities such as Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, along with continued shelling around Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, have raised serious concerns regarding global nuclear safety and nuclear security risks. “Nuclear energy carries enormous benefits but also enormous risks if not handled responsibly.” — IAEA Attacks on nuclear installations threaten environmental safety, global food security and nuclear non-proliferation efforts, making them a serious international concern. 👉WHY ATTACKS ON NUCLEAR FACILITIES ARE DANGEROUS 1. Risk of Radioactive Release Damage to reactors or spent fuel pools may release radioactive isotopes such as Cesium-137, which remain hazardous for decades. Example: Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) disasters demonstrated long-term contamination effects. 2. Global Environmental and Food Security Impact Radioactive particles can travel long distances through wind and water currents, contaminating agricultural land and food chains. Example: Radiation from Chernobyl spread across Europe. 3. Nuclear Proliferation Risk Attacks may lead to loss of control over enriched uranium or nuclear material, increasing the risk of proliferation. Example: Instability around Iran’s enrichment facilities. 4. Humanitarian Consequences Nuclear accidents can cause mass displacement, health crises and long-term radiation sickness. Example: Fukushima led to over 150,000 evacuations 5. Escalation of Geopolitical Conflicts Targeting nuclear facilities could escalate regional conflicts into broader international crises. Example: Tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States. 👉INTERNATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORK 1. Geneva Conventions Prohibit attacks on facilities containing dangerous forces, including nuclear power plants, if such attacks may cause severe civilian casualties. 2. Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons aims to prevent spread of nuclear weapons and promote peaceful nuclear use. 3. IAEA Safeguards System IAEA monitors nuclear materials and facilities to ensure they are used for peaceful purposes only. 👉BROADER GLOBAL CONTEXT 1. Rising Militarisation of Nuclear Sites Conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia demonstrate increasing vulnerability of nuclear facilities during warfare. 2. Cybersecurity Threats Nuclear infrastructure is also vulnerable to cyberattacks, which could disrupt safety systems. Example: Stuxnet cyberattack on Iran’s Natanz facility (2010). 3. Weak International Enforcement Although international law prohibits attacks, enforcement mechanisms remain limited. WAY FORWARD 1. Strengthen Nuclear Security Norms Develop stronger international agreements protecting nuclear infrastructure during conflicts. 2. Expand IAEA Monitoring Enhance real-time monitoring of nuclear facilities in conflict zones. 3. Promote Diplomatic Solutions Negotiations and verification frameworks remain essential for long-term nuclear stability 4. Improve Nuclear Safety Infrastructure Countries should invest in advanced containment systems and emergency preparedness CONCLUSION Attacks on nuclear installations represent one of the most dangerous escalations in modern conflict, posing risks not only to combatants but to global environmental security and human survival.

➡️An Iranian naval frigate IRIS Dena sank near the southern coast of Sri Lanka while returning from the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam, prompting rescue operations by the Sri Lankan Navy. 👉IRIS DENA 1. Moudge-Class Frigate The ship belongs to Iran’s domestically developed Moudge-class warships, designed for multi-role naval operations. Capabilities include: • Surface warfare • Air defence • Maritime patrol INTERNATIONAL FLEET REVIEW (IFR) The International Fleet Review is a naval ceremonial event where warships from multiple countries assemble to showcase maritime cooperation. India periodically hosts such events to strengthen naval diplomacy and maritime partnerships. 👉IMPORTANT TERMINOLOGY Frigate A medium-sized naval warship designed for escort and multi-role combat missions. Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) Major global shipping routes essential for international trade and energy transportation. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Military support operations for disaster response, rescue and relief during emergencies at sea or on land.

5 march ……..👇

➡️WHAT IS NMMS (NATIONAL MOBILE MONITORING SYSTEM) 2021 The NMMS app is a digital attendance system used in MGNREGS worksites. Key Features • Geo-tagged attendance through photographs of workers. • Two-time daily attendance recording (morning and afternoon). • Real-time monitoring of worksites by government authorities. • Integration with Aadhaar and e-KYC systems. Purpose: Reduce fake entries, ghost workers and corruption in muster rolls.

➡️WHY IN NEWS Workers under MGNREGS have reported technical glitches in the NMMS mobile monitoring app, particularly after the introduction of facial recognition for attendance, raising concerns about exclusion and technological barriers. ✅“Technology should enable welfare delivery, not become a barrier to it.” Digital tools are increasingly used in welfare schemes to improve transparency and reduce leakages, but implementation challenges can lead to exclusion of beneficiaries. 👉ISSUES RAISED BY WORKERS 1. Technical Glitches in Facial Recognition Workers report failure of facial authentication, preventing them from marking attendance. Example: Complaints from Rajasthan villages. 2. Digital Divide in Rural Areas Limited internet connectivity and smartphone availability disrupt attendance recording. Data: Only ~37% rural households have internet access. Source: NSSO / MoSPI Digital Access Survey 3. Gender Barriers Women workers reported difficulty downloading muster rolls and using the application. Example: Low digital literacy among rural women. 4. Risk of Exclusion from Wage Payments If attendance is not recorded due to technical failures, workers may lose daily wages, undermining the legal guarantee of employment. 5. Accountability Concerns Civil society groups argue that technology may shift responsibility from administration to workers. Example: Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) WAY FORWARD 1. Hybrid Attendance System Allow manual attendance or offline recording when network issues occur. 2. Improve Rural Digital Infrastructure Expand 4G/5G connectivity under BharatNet project. 3. Digital Literacy for Workers Train workers and supervisors in using digital monitoring tools. 4. Independent Monitoring Periodic evaluation of NMMS to ensure technology does not undermine MGNREGS’ rights-based framework.

➡️WHY IN NEWS The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth ₹5,083 crore to procure ALH Mk-III helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard and Shtil air-defence missiles for the Indian Navy, aiming to strengthen maritime security and air defence capability “Control of the seas means security, commerce and influence.” — Alfred Thayer Mahan With 90% of India’s trade by volume transported through sea routes (Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways), maritime security is critical for national security and economic stability. 👉ALH Mk-III Maritime Helicopters These helicopters will strengthen surveillance and maritime law-enforcement operations. Key capabilities • Twin-engine multi-role helicopter • Equipped with advanced avionics and maritime radar • Operates from shore bases and ships at sea Example: Used for search and rescue and anti-smuggling operations. 👉INITIATIVES BY INDIA 1. SAGAR Doctrine Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) doctrine aims to ensure regional maritime cooperation and security. 2. Coastal Surveillance Network Radar network across Indian coastline and Indian Ocean island states. 3. Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region monitors maritime traffic and security threats. 4. Maritime Theatre Command (Proposed) Integrated command to improve joint naval operations and maritime defence coordination.

• Breast cancer accounts for ~24% of all female cancers globally.

➡️WHY IN NEWS A study published in The Lancet Oncology reported that breast cancer cases in India increased by about 477% between 1990 and 2023, highlighting a major public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries ✅“Cancer is a global health challenge that demands prevention, early detection and equitable treatment.” — WHO Breast cancer has emerged as India’s leading cancer among women, with a rapid rise due to lifestyle changes, demographic transition and limited early detection mechanisms. 👉WHY BREAST CANCER CASES ARE RISING IN INDIA 1. Lifestyle Changes Urbanisation has led to sedentary lifestyles, obesity and alcohol consumption, increasing cancer risk. 2. Reproductive Pattern Changes Delayed marriage, fewer children and reduced breastfeeding increase exposure to estrogen, a major breast cancer risk factor. Example: Rising age of first childbirth in urban India. 3. Population Ageing Cancer incidence increases with age. Data: India’s elderly population (60+) expected to reach 20% by 2050. Source: UN Population Division 4. Low Screening Coverage India lacks a universal screening programme. Data: Less than 30% of women undergo regular breast cancer screening. 5. Healthcare Access Inequality Low- and middle-income countries face limited oncology infrastructure and diagnostic facilities. Example: Rural areas have fewer cancer treatment centres. 👉INITIATIVES BY GOVERNMENT 1. National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) Focuses on screening and early detection of cancers at primary healthcare level. 2. Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres Provide community-based screening for breast, cervical and oral cancers. 3. National Cancer Grid Network of 300+ cancer centres improving treatment quality and research. 4. National Cancer Registry Programme Tracks cancer incidence and mortality data across India. 👉IMPACT • Rising cancer burden increases healthcare costs. • Significant productivity loss and socio-economic impact. • Strain on India’s healthcare infrastructure. WAY FORWARD 1. Expand Nationwide Screening Introduce population-level breast cancer screening programmes 2. Promote Early Detection Encourage breast self-examination and mammography awareness. 3. Strengthen Oncology Infrastructure Increase cancer hospitals, diagnostic labs and trained oncologists. 4. Lifestyle Awareness Campaigns Promote healthy diet, physical activity and reduced alcohol consumption. CONCLUSION The sharp rise in breast cancer cases reflects India’s epidemiological transition. Strengthening prevention, early detection and treatment infrastructure is essential to reduce the growing cancer burden. IMPORTANT TERMINOLOGY Mammography A low-dose X-ray imaging technique used to detect breast cancer early. Epidemiological Transition Shift from infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases as major causes of death.

Mandatory R&D disclosure can become a critical institutional reform for India’s transition to a knowledge-based economy. 👉TERMINOLOGY Information Asymmetry A market situation where one party possesses more information than another, causing inefficient outcomes. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) A 9-stage scale measuring technological maturity from basic research to market deployment.

➡️WHY IN NEWS Debate has emerged on introducing a mandatory R&D disclosure standard in India to improve transparency and innovation financing, as India’s corporate R&D intensity remains very low (0.23% of GDP). “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” — Steve Jobs India aims to become a $5-trillion knowledge economy, yet R&D investment and transparency remain weak, especially in the private sector. 👉WHY INDIA NEEDS A MANDATORY R&D DISCLOSURE STANDARD 1. Extremely Low Corporate R&D Spending India’s R&D expenditure is ~0.64% of GDP compared to: • USA – ~3.5% of GDP • China – ~2.4% • South Korea – ~4.9% Source: UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 2023 🔹Low disclosure makes innovation investments invisible to investors, discouraging funding. Example: Corporate R&D intensity in India is only ~0.23% of GDP. 2. Weak Private Sector Contribution In innovation-driven economies, private firms dominate R&D spending. • USA – ~70% private sector contribution • China – ~76% • India – ~36% Source: DST R&D Statistics 2023 🔹Mandatory disclosure can increase investor confidence and attract private capital. 3. Address Information Asymmetry in Capital Markets George Akerlof’s “Market for Lemons” theory explains that when quality is hidden, markets undervalue good products. Similarly, without innovation disclosures: • Investors treat all companies equally • Genuine innovators fail to attract adequate capital 4. Improve Innovation Efficiency According to the OECD Intangibles Report (2021): Countries with mandatory innovation reporting achieve: • Higher patent filings • Better commercialization of research Example: South Korea introduced innovation disclosure under K-IFRS → corporate R&D spending increased significantly. 5. Improve Capital Allocation Transparent reporting enables investors to evaluate: • Patent pipelines • Technology maturity • Innovation revenue This improves market discipline and reduces speculative investments. 👉PROPOSED DISCLOSURE FRAMEWORK (UNDER SEBI LODR) Companies should disclose five structured indicators: 1. R&D Expenditure Breakdown of capital and revenue R&D spending to differentiate real innovation from operating expenses. 2. Patent Metrics Disclosure of patent filings, grants, expirations and maintenance costs. India currently files ~90,000 patent applications annually (Office of Controller General of Patents, 2023). 3. Technology Workforce Share of scientists and engineers in total workforce to measure research capability. India has ~2.6 million STEM graduates annually (AISHE Report). 4. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Standard scale measuring technology development from lab stage to commercialisation. Widely used by NASA and OECD innovation metrics. 5. Innovation Revenue Percentage of revenue generated from products introduced in last five years, indicating real innovation output. 👉CHALLENGES 1. Risk of Revealing Strategic Information Companies may hesitate to disclose sensitive technological pipelines. 2. Compliance Burden for Smaller Firms Detailed innovation reporting may increase regulatory compliance costs. 3. Weak Innovation Ecosystem India ranks 39th in Global Innovation Index 2023, indicating structural constraints. 👉INITIATIVES BY INDIA 1.Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act, 2023 Aims to raise ₹50,000 crore for research funding. 2.National Education Policy 2020 Promotes research universities and industry-academia collaboration. 3.Atal Innovation Mission Established 10,000+ Atal Tinkering Labs to promote grassroots innovation. Source: NITI Aayog 👉WAY FORWARD 1. SEBI-led Mandatory Innovation Reporting under LODR regulations. 2. Increase national R&D spending to at least 1–2% of GDP. 3. Provide tax incentives for corporate R&D investment. 4. Strengthen industry–academia collaboration through ANRF. CONCLUSION A transparent innovation ecosystem ensures efficient capital allocation and technological advancement.

➡️Operation Aaghat 4.0 – A preventive policing drive by Delhi Police aimed at maintaining law and order before the Holi festival by targeting habitual offenders and illegal activities. • Delhi Police Act, 1978 – Governs policing, public order, and preventive detention in Delhi. “The first duty of the State is to maintain law and order so that liberty and development can flourish.” – B.R. Ambedkar

4 march ………👇

➡️Core Types of Financial Assistance to States 1. Tax Devolution (Article 270) • Share of divisible pool of central taxes. • 41% of divisible pool recommended by 15th Finance Commission (post J&K reorganisation). • Formula based on criteria like: income distance, population (2011), area, forest cover, demographic performance, tax effort. • Largest and most predictable source of State revenue. 2. Finance Commission Grants (Article 275) • Statutory grants recommended every 5 years. • Types: – Revenue Deficit Grants (RDG) (to bridge post-devolution gaps) – Local body grants (urban & rural) – Sector-specific grants (health, judiciary, etc.) • 15th FC recommended ~₹2.94 lakh crore RDG (2021–26). • Rule-based, not discretionary. 3. Discretionary Grants (Article 282) • Given for any public purpose. • Not formula-driven; approved by Union Government. • Used for special packages, political or emergency fiscal support. • Basis of many “special financial assistance” demands. 4. Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) • Cost-sharing pattern (e.g., 60:40; 90:10 for special category states). • Examples: Health, Education, Rural Development schemes. • Conditional funding tied to scheme guidelines. • Reduces fiscal autonomy of States due to tied nature. 5. Special Assistance for Capital Investment • Introduced in recent Union Budgets. • 50-year interest-free loans to States. • Conditional on capital expenditure and reforms. • Aimed at boosting infrastructure and multiplier effect. 6. Disaster Relief Assistance • Through SDRF (State Disaster Response Fund) and NDRF. • Allocation based on Finance Commission formula. • Additional special packages may be approved after major disasters. • Critical for Himalayan and coastal States. 7. FRBM Borrowing Relaxation • Normal borrowing limit: ~3% of GSDP. • Centre may allow additional 0.5–1% subject to reforms (e.g., power sector, ease of doing business). • Provides liquidity without direct grant.

➡️ Operation Sankalp (2019– ) – Indian Navy mission for maritime security in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Gulf of Aden to safeguard Indian-flagged merchant vessels. • HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) – Military-led assistance during natural disasters or crises; core mission of Indian Navy under “Net Security Provider” doctrine.