A recent scientific study has found that vaccination against shingles is associated with a reduced risk of death from dementia. The finding highlights the broader health benefits of preventive vaccination, especially among older adults.

What is Shingles Disease?

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful skin rash, often accompanied by blisters. It occurs due to the reactivation of a dormant virus within the body.

Cause of Shingles

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus does not leave the body. Instead, it remains inactive in nerve cells and can reactivate later in life.

The likelihood of reactivation increases when the immune system weakens, which may occur due to advancing age, illness, or the use of immunosuppressive medications.

Symptoms of Shingles

Shingles typically presents as a painful rash, often appearing as a band or stripe of fluid-filled blisters on one side of the body, commonly on the torso, neck, or face. Other symptoms may include itching, tingling, burning sensation, headache, fever, and sensitivity to light or touch.

Transmission of Shingles

Shingles itself is not contagious. However, the varicella-zoster virus can be transmitted from a person with shingles to someone who has never had chickenpox, potentially causing chickenpox in the exposed individual.

Risk Groups

Shingles is most commonly seen in people over the age of 50 and in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or living with chronic illnesses.

Prevention and Treatment

A vaccine known as Shingrix is available to prevent shingles and its complications. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing the disease and may also lower the chances of associated long-term health outcomes, such as neurological complications.

Significance of the Recent Study

The recent findings linking the shingles vaccine to a lower risk of dementia-related mortality underline the importance of preventive healthcare and adult immunisation, particularly in ageing populations.

Dementia

Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that leads to a gradual decline in cognitive abilities beyond what is expected from normal ageing. It affects functions such as memory, thinking, understanding, learning, language, and judgment. Dementia impairs a person’s ability to perform daily activities and live independently. However, it does not affect consciousness, meaning the individual remains awake and aware.

Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over seven indigenously developed technologies to the Indian Armed Forces. These technologies were developed under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme, highlighting India’s progress toward self-reliance in defence technology.

About the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme

The Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme was established to promote indigenous development of defence technologies as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The scheme aims to reduce India’s dependence on defence imports by fostering home-grown innovation.

Objectives of the TDF Scheme

The primary objective of the scheme is to encourage participation of public and private industries, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups, in the defence sector. It seeks to create an ecosystem that enhances cutting-edge technological capabilities within the country.

Nodal Ministry

The Ministry of Defence is the nodal ministry responsible for the implementation and oversight of the Technology Development Fund Scheme.

Funding Support under the TDF Scheme

Under the scheme, projects with a total cost of up to ₹50 crore are eligible for funding. Financial assistance can extend up to 90% of the total project cost, significantly reducing the financial burden on innovators.The maximum development period allowed for a project is four years, ensuring timely development and delivery of technologies.

Eligibility Criteria for the TDF Scheme

Eligible Entities

Eligible applicants include public limited companies, private limited companies, partnership firms, limited liability partnerships, one-person companies, and sole proprietorships registered under Indian law. The scheme places special emphasis on MSMEs and startups.The entity must be owned and controlled by resident Indian citizens. Companies with more than 49% foreign investment are not eligible under the scheme.

Eligibility Conditions for Startups

Startups must be recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in accordance with Government of India guidelines.Startups incorporated less than three years prior to the application date are considered nascent startups. Such startups must be incubated at a Central or State Government–assisted incubator.Startups should not have received grants or grants-in-aid from any government scheme for the same or similar technology. Additionally, the startup must be owned and controlled by a resident Indian citizen with a minimum shareholding of 51%.

Success Stories under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme

The Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme has supported several successful indigenous defence and space technology projects, demonstrating its effectiveness in promoting innovation and self-reliance.

Green Propulsion System

One of the most notable projects supported under the TDF Scheme is the Green Propulsion System developed by Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., a Bengaluru-based startup. The system has been designed specifically for microsatellites and has successfully demonstrated its in-orbit functionality, marking a major milestone in India’s private space technology capabilities.

Key Achievements

• Non-Toxic Propellant: The project led to the development of an indigenously produced, non-toxic propellant, which is both safe to handle and environmentally friendly.

• Validated Performance: The propulsion system’s performance was validated using telemetry data from the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) through ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC). The system exceeded all specified performance parameters.

• Technological Milestones: The project successfully demonstrated pulsed mode and steady-state firing in vacuum conditions, effective passivation of residual propellant in outer space, and the establishment of standardized filling procedures in accordance with TDF guidelines.

Anti-Drone Technology

Another significant achievement under the TDF Scheme is the development of anti-drone technology, which has been handed over to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and selected private sector firms. This technology highlights the strategic importance of indigenous counter-drone capabilities and demonstrates the commercial viability of innovations supported through the TDF framework.

Global Competitiveness and Strategic Impact

By reducing dependence on foreign defence technologies and encouraging indigenous research and development, the TDF Scheme aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian defence products. This approach not only strengthens national security but also opens avenues for defence exports and international collaborations, positioning India as an emerging global defence technology provider.

In a significant conservation milestone, a tigress will be airlifted from the Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh to the Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR) in Rajasthan. This marks Rajasthan’s first inter-state tiger translocation and India’s second such translocation, covering a distance of nearly 800 km.

About Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve

Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve is located in the Bundi district of Rajasthan. It covers a total area of 1,501.89 square kilometres, comprising a core area of 481.90 sq. km and a buffer zone of 1,019.98 sq. km.

The reserve holds strategic importance as it acts as a critical wildlife corridor connecting the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in the northeast with the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in the south. It was officially notified as a tiger reserve on 16 May 2022.

The Mez River, a tributary of the Chambal River, flows through the reserve. The terrain is marked by rugged landscapes of the Aravalli and Vindhyan ranges, along with valleys and plateaus.

Vegetation and Flora

The reserve is dominated by dry deciduous forests.
The primary tree species is Dhok (Anogeissus pendula).
Other important flora includes Khair, Ronj, Amaltas, Gurjan, and Saler.

Fauna of Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve

The region is currently dominated by leopards and sloth bears.
Other notable fauna includes the jungle cat, golden jackal, hyena, crested porcupine, Indian hedgehog, rhesus macaque, and Hanuman langur.

Key Facts about Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench Tiger Reserve is located in the southern Satpura Hills, spread across the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, and shares its southern boundary with Maharashtra. It is named after the Pench River, which flows through the reserve from north to south.

The reserve includes the Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, Pench Mowgli Sanctuary, and an extensive buffer zone. The landscape inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.”

Vegetation and Flora of Pench

The undulating terrain supports a mix of moist valley forests and dry deciduous forests.
Major flora includes teak, saag, mahua, and diverse grasses and shrubs.
Teak forests cover nearly one-fourth of the reserve.

Fauna of Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench is renowned for its large herbivore populations, including chital, sambar, nilgai, gaur (Indian bison), and wild boar.
The tiger is the apex predator, followed by leopards, wild dogs, and wolves.
The reserve hosts over 325 species of resident and migratory birds, such as the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Indian Pitta, Osprey, Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, and White-eyed Buzzard.

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries has stated that the PMFME Scheme has steadily expanded its reach, with significant progress achieved across major components as of 31 October 2025.

About PMFME Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched on 29 June 2020 by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. The scheme aims to address the challenges faced by micro food processing enterprises and to harness the potential of groups, cooperatives, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to support their upgradation and formalisation.

Objectives of the PMFME Scheme

The scheme seeks to build the capacity of micro food processing enterprises by:

• Enhancing access to institutional credit for micro entrepreneurs, FPOs, SHGs, and cooperatives.

• Integrating micro enterprises with the organized supply chain through improved branding and marketing.

• Supporting the formalisation of 2,00,000 existing micro food processing units.

• Providing access to common services such as processing facilities, laboratories, storage, packaging, marketing, and incubation centres.

• Strengthening institutions, research, and training in the food processing sector.

• Expanding access to professional and technical support for enterprises.

Outlay and Funding Pattern

The scheme has a total outlay of ₹10,000 crore for the period 2020–21 to 2024–25.

• 60:40 sharing between the Centre and States.

• 90:10 for Northeastern and Himalayan States.

• 60:40 for Union Territories with legislatures.

• 100% Central funding for other Union Territories.

Coverage and Key Components

Under the scheme, 2,00,000 micro food processing units are directly assisted through credit-linked subsidies. The scheme also supports the development of common infrastructure and institutional mechanisms to accelerate sectoral growth.

The PMFME Scheme has four major components:

1. Support to individual and group micro-enterprises.

2. Branding and marketing support.

3. Strengthening of institutional capacity.

4. Establishment of a robust project management framework.

Financial Support under PMFME

Support to Individual Micro Enterprises

• Credit-linked subsidy of 35% of the eligible project cost, subject to a maximum of ₹10 lakh.

• Minimum beneficiary contribution of 10%, with the remaining amount financed through bank loans.

• On-site skill training and handholding support for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and technical upgradation.

Support to FPOs, SHGs, and Cooperatives

• Seed capital assistance to SHGs up to ₹4 lakh per SHG for working capital and purchase of small tools.

• Credit-linked capital subsidy of 35%, up to a maximum of ₹3 crore, for setting up common infrastructure.

• Grant up to 50% for branding and marketing to groups of FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, or Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs).

• Skill training and handholding support for groups.

Eligible Beneficiaries

Eligible borrowers under the PMFME Scheme include:

• Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)

• Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Cooperatives

• Existing micro food processing entrepreneurs

New units, whether individual or group-based, are supported only under the One District One Product (ODOP) framework.

Significance of the PMFME Scheme

The PMFME Scheme plays a vital role in formalising the unorganised food processing sector, improving income opportunities, strengthening value chains, and promoting local food products, thereby contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat and rural economic development.

India’s inbound tourism sector is gradually recovering, but it remains below the pre-pandemic peak of 10.93 million foreign tourist arrivals recorded in 2019. This slow recovery reflects persistent challenges such as global travel hesitancy, alongside domestic infrastructural limitations and environmental constraints.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, India recorded 9.95 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2024, which is still lower than pre-COVID levels. In 2025, around 5.6 million tourists arrived up to August, compared to 6.3 million during the same period in 2024, indicating a modest slowdown in growth.

Growth Potential and Projections

Despite short-term challenges, India’s tourism sector demonstrates strong long-term potential:

• The tourism market in India is projected to reach US$125 billion by FY 2027.

• The sector is expected to contribute US$523.6 billion to India’s GDP by 2034.

• International tourist arrivals are projected to reach 30.5 million by 2028.

• India ranked 39th globally in the 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF), performing strongly in natural and cultural resources.

• According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), by 2035, the sector could contribute ₹42 trillion to GDP and support 64 million jobs.

These projections underline tourism’s role as a key driver of economic growth, provided policy reforms and infrastructure development keep pace with demand.

Tourism as an Economic Engine

Tourism functions as a powerful multiplier for the Indian economy by:

• Generating employment across skilled and unskilled sectors, including hospitality, transport, and services.

• Supporting MSMEs in areas such as food processing, handicrafts, logistics, and accommodation.

• Promoting cultural preservation by monetizing heritage, traditions, and local art forms.

• Enhancing India’s soft power, shaping global perceptions through cultural exchange and people-to-people contact.

Evolution of the Indian Tourism Sector

India’s tourism sector has evolved through distinct phases, shaped by policy reforms, infrastructure development, technological change, and global trends.

Pre-1990: Early Foundations

The initial phase focused on establishing a policy framework for tourism development.

• 1982: The Government of India announced the National Tourism Policy, laying the institutional foundation for organized tourism development.

• 1988: A comprehensive tourism development plan was formulated to promote tourism across diverse regions of the country.

1990–2000: Tourism Emerges as an Industry

During this period, tourism began to be recognised as a significant economic activity.

• Industry Status: Several states formally declared tourism as an industry, enabling access to incentives and financing.

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Greater emphasis was placed on PPP models to expand tourism infrastructure.

• Hotel Industry Growth: Supportive policies facilitated the expansion of the hospitality sector, especially in urban and tourist hubs.

2000–2005: Infrastructure and Technological Expansion

This phase marked a shift toward infrastructure-led growth and early digital adoption.

• 2002: A new National Tourism Policy was launched, prioritising infrastructure development, destination diversification, and sustainable tourism.

• Technological Advancements: The emergence of online travel portals and low-cost carrier airlines significantly boosted domestic tourism and improved accessibility.

2015 Onwards: Global Recognition and Digital Innovation

India’s tourism strategy became more globally oriented and technology-driven.

• Marketing Initiatives: The government launched high-impact branding campaigns to position India as a leading global tourism destination.

• e-Tourist Visa: Introduced in 2014, the e-Visa system simplified entry procedures. By 2018, 2.93 million foreign tourists arrived under this facility, registering a 23.6% growth.

• Global Standing: In 2018, India achieved 3rd position in global tourism growth rankings, reflecting rising international interest.

Post-Pandemic Phase: Revival and Adaptation

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted tourism but also reshaped consumer behaviour.

• Revenge Travel: A surge in pent-up demand led to the emergence of “revenge travel”, particularly in domestic tourism.

• Government Support: Active policy measures and promotional initiatives were undertaken to revive tourism and support economic recovery.

• Hotel Industry Response: Hotels focused on increasing occupancy through competitive pricing and flexible booking policies.

Concerns & Issues with India’s Tourism Sector

Despite its potential, India’s tourism sector faces several structural, financial, and strategic challenges:

1. Budgetary Constraints & Promotion Cuts

• Union Budget 2025–26 allocated ₹2,541 crore to tourism, but overseas promotion funding dropped sharply from ₹33 crore to ₹3.07 crore.

• Reduced global marketing limits India’s visibility in key international markets, particularly when competitors are investing heavily post-pandemic.

2. Spending vs. Visitor Numbers

• WTTC (2024): International tourist spending in India was ₹3.1 trillion, but arrivals remain below the 2019 pre-pandemic peak of 10.93 million.

• India attracts higher-value tourists, but overall footfall lags, indicating untapped potential.

3. Persistent Structural Bottlenecks

• Visa issues: Slow eVisa processing and limited visa-on-arrival access.

• Connectivity gaps: Poor air connectivity from major source markets; inadequate last-mile transport.

• Infrastructure deficits: Low-quality lodging, sanitation issues, and limited multilingual support for foreign tourists.

• Fragmented promotion: Multiple agencies operate independently, diluting global branding efforts.

4. Regional Concentration

• Tourism is unevenly distributed:

  • North Zone: 35.62% of arrivals

  • South Zone: 26.27%

  • West & Central: 19.94%

  • East: 16.60%

  • Northeast: 1.58%

• Over-reliance on a few regions limits inclusive growth and development of lesser-known destinations.

5. Global Competitiveness Gap

• Despite premiumization and niche tourism promotion, India’s inbound arrivals remain far below competitors like Thailand, Malaysia, and even Sri Lanka.

• High spending tourists are concentrated in limited regions, reducing broad-based economic impact.

How India Can Attract High-Value Tourists

India has immense potential to attract high-value tourists by offering premium experiences, world-class infrastructure, and seamless travel.

1. Simplify Entry and Travel

Expanding Visa Access: India should expand the e-Tourist Visa and visa-on-arrival facilities to more countries, ensuring that the process is faster, cheaper, and hassle-free.

Seamless Travel Experience: High-value tourists prefer efficient airports, quick immigration, and multilingual support. Improving these aspects can make India a more attractive destination.

2. Promote Unique and Premium Experiences

Niche Tourism: India can offer Ayurveda retreats, luxury wildlife safaris, spiritual wellness tours, high-end cultural festivals, and river cruises.

Example – Lakshadweep: With its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear waters, Lakshadweep has great potential for high-end, sustainable tourism.

Influencer Marketing: Inviting travel influencers, bloggers, and opinion leaders to experience luxury tourism can create global awareness and aspiration.

3. Showcase Destination Diversity Through Circuits

Premium Tourism Circuits: Programs like Swadesh Darshan and PRASAD can help package India’s rich diversity into multi-day immersive journeys.

• Buddhist Circuit: Attracts international pilgrims.

• Luxury Himalayan Circuit: Combines adventure and wellness tourism.

• Spiritual Circuits: Promotes heritage and culture through upgraded PRASAD sites.

Benefits: These circuits encourage longer stays and higher tourist spending.

4. Develop World-Class Infrastructure and Connectivity

Destination Development: Initiatives to develop 50 top tourist destinations in partnership with states will provide premium facilities and luxury accommodations.

Private Investment: Classifying hotels under the Infrastructure Harmonized Master List (HML) encourages private investment in high-end hospitality.

Seamless Connectivity: Improved transport networks and last-mile connectivity are crucial for high-value tourism.

5. Upgrade Service Quality

Hospitality Training: Focus on training manpower, including chefs, guides, and service staff, to meet international standards.

Premium Accommodations: Encourage the development of boutique hotels, luxury resorts, heritage stays, and high-end cruises to cater to affluent tourists.

6. Promote Medical and Wellness Tourism

Heal in India Initiative: Combining modern medicine with Ayurveda, Yoga, and wellness treatments can position India as a global healthcare and wellness hub.

Market Potential: Medical Value Travel is projected to reach USD 13.42 billion by 2026, highlighting its potential for attracting high-value international visitors.

7. Enhance Knowledge and Cultural Tourism

Heritage Preservation: Initiatives like the Gyan Bharatam Mission digitize manuscripts and preserve India’s cultural heritage.

Target Audience: Attracts scholars, researchers, and global heritage enthusiasts, adding a premium dimension to cultural tourism.

8. Strengthen Safety and Comfort

Tourist Support Services: Establish 24×7 tourist helplines, dedicated tourist police, multilingual guides, and welcome booklets.

Trust Building: Safety and comfort are key for high-value tourists, who prioritize secure and hassle-free travel experiences.

Government Efforts & Initiatives Supporting India’s Tourism Sector

India’s tourism sector plays a critical role in economic growth, employment generation, and cultural preservation. The government has undertaken multiple initiatives to revive and strengthen tourism, improve infrastructure and services, and promote India as a premium destination globally.

1. Destination Development and Infrastructure

Union Budget 2025–26 allocated funds to develop 50 tourist destinations in partnership with states through a ‘challenge mode’. This ensures world-class infrastructure, improved connectivity, and enhanced visitor experience.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 promotes sustainable, theme-based tourism circuits. Major themes include Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Himalayan, and Wildlife circuits. The program also supports Village Tourism Development, encouraging homestays and local experiences to provide sustainable livelihoods.

The PRASHAD Scheme focuses on the holistic development of pilgrimage sites, fostering spiritual tourism while preserving cultural heritage.

2. Promotion and Marketing Initiatives

Dekho Apna Desh encourages domestic tourism, highlighting lesser-known destinations and fostering pride in India’s cultural heritage.

The Incredible India 2.0 Campaign seeks to revamp India’s global image using digital marketing and immersive technologies such as AR/VR. It also implements tailored campaigns for key international markets.

Through the Adopt a Heritage Project, the government collaborates with corporate entities to maintain monuments, improve amenities, and establish interpretation centers for tourists.

3. Capacity Building and Skill Development

The Incredible India Tourist Facilitator Certification (IITFC) is a digital platform that trains and certifies professional tourist facilitators, improving service quality and tourist satisfaction.

The Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) initiative offers training programs for guides, drivers, and hospitality staff, enhancing overall visitor experience.

The ‘Heal in India’ initiative promotes medical and wellness tourism by combining modern healthcare with Ayurveda, Yoga, and holistic treatments. It also streamlines visa processes and fosters private sector partnerships.

4. Promotion of High-Value and Niche Tourism

India actively promotes high-value tourism sectors such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). The India MICE Digital Catalogue showcases top conference facilities across cities and involves collaboration with FICCI and state tourism departments.

The National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI) registers over 45,000 hotels to facilitate ease of doing business and integrates with the SAATHI initiative for hygiene and safety certification.

5. Strategic Priorities for a Stronger Tourism Comeback

To achieve sustainable growth in tourism, the government can focus on the following strategic priorities:

• Revive ‘Incredible India’ through modern, digital-first global campaigns targeting markets like the US, Europe, and East Asia.

• Simplify and expand eVisa access to attract a larger pool of international tourists.

• Enhance air connectivity to Tier-II cities such as Kochi, Goa, Jaipur, and Guwahati.

• Promote integrated circuits combining culture, wellness, and spirituality, encouraging longer stays and higher spending.

• Invest in cleanliness, accessibility, and hospitality training to improve the overall visitor experience.

• Strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) to ensure high-quality infrastructure and service delivery.

Conclusion

Through initiatives like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, Incredible India 2.0, and Heal in India, the government aims to position India as a premium tourism destination. The focus on world-class infrastructure, skill development, niche tourism, and high-value experiences ensures that India can attract both domestic and international travelers, contribute to economic growth, and preserve its rich cultural and natural heritage.

At the 50-year commemoration of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) held in New Delhi, India’s External Affairs Minister highlighted that the world remains ill-prepared to deal with bioterrorism. He warned of rising threats from non-state actors and called for stronger global biosecurity frameworks, underscoring serious gaps in existing international mechanisms.

What is the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)?

The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), formally titled “The Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction”, is the primary global treaty banning biological weapons.

• The BWC prohibits the development, production, acquisition, transfer, stockpiling, and use of biological and toxin weapons.

• It follows the General Purpose Criterion (Article I), which bans any biological agents or toxins that have no legitimate peaceful, protective, or prophylactic purpose, rather than listing specific agents.

• The Convention was opened for signature in 1972 and entered into force in 1975.
  India ratified it in 1974.

• The BWC is reviewed every five years to keep pace with scientific, technological, and security developments.

• It supplements the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which prohibited only the use, and not the possession or development, of biological weapons.

Key Features of the BWC

• Biological and toxin weapons are defined as microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi) or toxins deliberately released to cause disease or death in humans, animals, or plants.

• The BWC is the first multilateral disarmament treaty to ban an entire category of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs).

• It establishes a comprehensive prohibition on all activities related to biological weapons.

India’s Measures to Strengthen Compliance with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)

India has adopted a comprehensive legal, regulatory, and diplomatic framework to ensure effective compliance with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and to strengthen global biosecurity.

1. National Biosecurity Rules, 1989

India enforces the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells Rules, 1989 to regulate activities involving hazardous biological materials.
These rules aim to protect human health and the environment by ensuring biosafety, biosecurity, and controlled handling of sensitive biological agents.

2. Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Prohibition Act, 2005

The WMD and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005 provides a strong legal foundation by criminalising the illegal manufacture, acquisition, transport, financing, and transfer of weapons of mass destruction, including biological weapons.This law reinforces India’s commitment to non-proliferation and international disarmament obligations.

3. SCOMET Export Control Framework

India implements strict export controls through the Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies (SCOMET) list.
Category 2 of SCOMET specifically monitors the export of microorganisms, toxins, and high-risk biological agents, preventing their diversion for hostile or non-peaceful purposes while allowing legitimate scientific and commercial use.

4. India–France Article VII Assistance Database Proposal

In collaboration with France, India has proposed the creation of an assistance-tracking database under Article VII of the BWC.This mechanism would enable rapid international assistance and coordination for any State Party exposed to biological threats or treaty violations, thereby enhancing collective preparedness and response capacity.

5. Capacity Building through Training and Diplomacy

India actively contributes to global biosecurity through annual ITEC capacity-building programmes focused on UN Security Council Resolution 1540 and strategic trade controls.These initiatives help strengthen institutional capacities, legal frameworks, and international cooperation, particularly among developing countries.

Challenges Related to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)

Despite being a landmark disarmament treaty, the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) faces several structural, legal, and institutional challenges that limit its effectiveness in addressing contemporary biological threats.

1. Absence of a Verification Mechanism

Unlike other major disarmament treaties, the BWC lacks a formal verification and compliance mechanism.The dual-use nature of biological sciences makes it difficult to distinguish between peaceful research and offensive biological weapons programmes through traditional, accounting-based verification frameworks.In contrast, the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) employs a robust verification system based on mandatory documentation of facilities, tools, precursors, and raw materials, overseen by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Such a system is currently absent under the BWC.

2. Lack of Legally Enforceable Data Collection Provisions

The BWC does not mandate legally binding reporting or inspection requirements.
As a result, it relies on politically binding Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs), which include voluntary submissions on biological facilities, research activities, and national legislation.However, CBMs suffer from low compliance and uneven participation. Notably, 2022 was the first year when more than 50% of States Parties submitted CBMs, highlighting persistent transparency gaps.

3. Weak Institutional Support Structure

The Implementation Support Unit (ISU), established in 2006 to assist States Parties, remains severely understaffed and resource-constrained.
Until the Ninth Review Conference, the ISU functioned with only three non-permanent staff, and even after expansion, it has just four personnel, which is inadequate to support a treaty with over 180 States Parties.This limits the ISU’s ability to provide technical assistance, coordination, and monitoring, further weakening treaty implementation.

4. Insufficient National-Level Implementation Mechanisms

Effective BWC compliance depends on strong domestic institutional frameworks, which remain uneven across countries.For example, India has a dedicated National Authority for the Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC) but lacks a similarly centralized authority for the Biological Weapons Convention.The absence of such national focal points can lead to fragmented oversight, regulatory gaps, and weaker enforcement of biosecurity norms.

What is Bioterrorism?

According to INTERPOL, bioterrorism is the deliberate release of harmful biological agents or toxins to cause disease and fear, with the aim of pressuring governments or civilian populations for political or social objectives.

Concerns Associated with Bioterrorism

• High Casualty Potential: Biological agents can spread rapidly and overwhelm health systems.

• Lessons from COVID-19: The pandemic revealed major weaknesses in global outbreak preparedness, even against natural pathogens.

• Difficult Detection and Attribution: Biological attacks often resemble natural disease outbreaks, complicating early detection and responsibility.

• Dual-Use Research Risks: Advances in biotechnology, synthetic biology, and genetic engineering can be misused.

• Low-Cost, High-Impact Nature: Biological weapons are cheaper to produce than nuclear or chemical weapons, making them attractive to non-state actors.

• Psychological and Economic Disruption: Panic, misinformation, and supply-chain disruptions can destabilise societies and economies.

Measures to Strengthen Global Biosecurity

1. Strengthening National Frameworks

India has proposed a comprehensive national implementation framework, including:

• Regulation of high-risk biological agents,

• Oversight of dual-use research,

• Mandatory domestic reporting, and

• Incident management and response mechanisms.

2. Bio-Forensics and Attribution

Developing scientific capacity to trace outbreak origins can deter misuse and support investigations.

3. Focus on the Global South

India emphasises that Global South countries must be central to future biosecurity planning due to their vulnerability and need for equitable access to vaccines, medicines, and technologies.

4. Oversight of the Dual-Use Dilemma

Stricter ethical review, monitoring, and regulation of research related to vaccines, diagnostics, and biofuels is essential.

5. Strengthening Article VII Assistance

India, along with France, has proposed a global assistance database to ensure timely support to states facing biological threats or treaty violations.

6. International Cooperation

Biological threats require collective action, including cooperation in surveillance, capacity building, and technology sharing.
Agreements such as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (2000) support safe handling of living modified organisms.

7. Confidence Building Measures (CBMs)

Enhanced transparency through data sharing, facility declarations, and legislative updates can strengthen trust under the BWC.

The Union Minister of Law and Justice has highlighted a serious manpower crisis in the Indian judiciary, where high judicial vacancies combined with a rising case load—nearly 4.80 crore pending cases in lower courts—have created systemic stress. This situation underscores the urgent need for structural and institutional reforms.

Status of Case Pendency in the Indian Judiciary

Pendency in the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has witnessed a sharp increase in pendency, rising by nearly 30% in four years, from 70,239 cases in 2021 to 90,694 cases in 2025. This reflects increasing inflow of cases, especially through Special Leave Petitions.

Pendency in Lower Courts

Lower courts carry the largest burden of unresolved cases, with approximately 4.80 crore cases pending nationwide. Persistent vacancies, such as in Maharashtra where around 250 posts remain unfilled since 2021, have contributed to rising backlogs.

State-wise Disparities

Judicial pendency is uneven across states.

• Uttar Pradesh alone accounts for 1.13 crore pending cases, over 23% of the national backlog.

• The Allahabad High Court records the highest pendency among High Courts, with 11.66 lakh cases pending.

Systemic Causes Behind the Pendency Crisis

Inadequate Judge–Population Ratio

India has only 21 judges per million population, far below the Law Commission’s recommended 50 judges per million and much lower than advanced democracies. This structural deficit severely limits disposal capacity.

High Judicial Vacancies

There are 4,855 vacancies in lower courts and 297 in High Courts, overburdening existing judges, many of whom handle thousands of cases simultaneously.

Infrastructural and Technological Deficiencies

Many courts lack sufficient courtrooms, trained support staff, and digital infrastructure, slowing hearings and case processing.

Inefficient Case Management

Weak pre-trial procedures, poor prioritisation of old cases, and frequent adjournments—often granted liberally—prolong litigation for years.

Delayed Appointment Processes

Judicial recruitment is slowed by bureaucratic delays and Executive–Collegium disagreements, leaving vacancies unfilled for long periods.

Limited Use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

While Lok Adalats dispose of many cases, mediation and arbitration remain underutilised, especially for high-value civil and commercial disputes.

Impact of Judicial Pendency on Justice Delivery

Violation of Constitutional Rights

Judicial delays undermine Article 21, which guarantees the right to speedy justice, converting justice into an uncertain and delayed process.

Decline in Quality of Justice

Overburdened judges face time constraints, potentially affecting reasoned judgments, fairness, and consistency.

Erosion of Public Trust

Long delays reduce deterrence, increase litigation fatigue, and weaken public faith in the judiciary.

Economic and Social Consequences

Delayed dispute resolution discourages investment, raises transaction costs, and disproportionately affects undertrials and marginalized groups, deepening inequality.

Threat to the Rule of Law

When justice becomes inaccessible, citizens may resort to extra-legal measures, undermining the Rule of Law, a basic feature of the Constitution.

Government Initiatives to Reduce Judicial Pendency in India

The Government of India has undertaken several institutional, technological, and procedural initiatives to address the growing backlog of cases and improve the efficiency of the justice delivery system.

1. e-Courts Mission Mode Project

The e-Courts Project, implemented by the Ministry of Law and Justice in collaboration with the Supreme Court, aims to digitise court functioning across all levels.

• It provides e-filing, e-payments, online case status tracking, and virtual hearings.

• Video-conferencing facilities have improved access to justice, especially for undertrial prisoners and remote litigants.

• Digital case management has helped reduce delays caused by manual record-keeping.

2. National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms (2011)

This mission focuses on improving access to justice and reducing pendency through systemic reforms.

• Emphasises timely disposal of cases, judicial accountability, and performance standards.

• Encourages simplification of procedures and adoption of technology.

3. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)

Fast Track Courts have been set up to ensure speedy trials in sensitive and high-priority cases.

• These courts focus on cases related to sexual offences, crimes against women and children, and long-pending criminal cases.

• They operate with dedicated judges and timelines for disposal.

4. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms

The government promotes mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and Lok Adalats to reduce the burden on courts.

• Lok Adalats dispose of large volumes of cases, especially in motor accident claims, family disputes, and petty offences.

• The Commercial Courts Act, 2015 mandates pre-litigation mediation for certain disputes.

5. Tele-Law Programme

The Tele-Law initiative provides free legal advice through Common Service Centres (CSCs), particularly in rural and underserved areas.

• It connects citizens with panel lawyers via video or telephone.

• Helps resolve disputes at an early stage, reducing litigation inflow.

6. National Judicial Infrastructure Authority of India (Proposed)

The government has proposed setting up a National Judicial Infrastructure Authority of India (NJIAI) to address infrastructural gaps.

• It aims to standardise, fund, and modernise court infrastructure across states.

• Focus areas include court buildings, residential facilities, and digital infrastructure.

7. Judicial Appointments and Capacity Expansion

Efforts are ongoing to increase judicial strength through faster recruitment in lower courts and coordination with the Collegium for higher judiciary appointments.

• Centrally Sponsored Schemes support states in increasing judge strength and court infrastructure.

• Emphasis is placed on reducing vacancies to balance workload.

Required Systemic Reforms

Filling Judicial Vacancies

A time-bound, mission-mode recruitment process is needed, with a long-term goal of achieving 50 judges per million population.

Improving Court Efficiency

Adjournments should be strictly regulated, and specialised courts expanded for commercial, family, and minor offence cases.

Leveraging Technology

Full implementation of e-Courts, including AI-based case categorisation and scheduling, can enhance efficiency.

Strengthening ADR

Mandatory pre-litigation mediation for civil and commercial disputes can significantly reduce court burden.

Rationalising Higher Court Workload

The Supreme Court should limit SLPs to constitutional and nationally significant matters, while High Courts must enforce performance benchmarks.

Conclusion

India’s judicial pendency crisis stems from structural manpower shortages, infrastructural gaps, and procedural inefficiencies. Addressing it requires systemic reforms, enhanced judicial capacity, technological adoption, and effective use of ADR mechanisms. Ensuring timely justice is essential for constitutional governance, economic development, and public trust in the Rule of Law.