India and Africa are building a robust and evolving partnership, particularly in the realm of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), which holds tremendous potential to boost socio-economic development across the continent.

Africa’s Digital Transformation:

• Africa Day (May 25) marks the formation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, symbolizing Africa's pursuit of unity, independence, and sustainable development.

• Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030): The African Union (AU) has placed digital innovation at the heart of its development agenda. A key achievement is that 85% of African countries now have national ID systems with digital features. Additionally, over 70% of African countries are now collecting biometric data for authentication, highlighting a growing digital infrastructure across the continent.

India’s Role:

India’s engagement with Africa has long been based on a combination of state-led financing, capacity-building, and the promotion of technology-driven solutions. India’s evolving approach focuses not just on technology transfer, but on co-creating digital systems that are adaptable and community-oriented.

Key Points:

1. Promoting DPI as a Digital Public Good: India has pushed the concept of DPI as a non-surveillance, open-source alternative to proprietary or state-controlled models, emphasizing state collaboration over mere technology transfer.

2. Technology-Centric Model: India is transitioning to a model focused on technology co-creation, which includes launching the Pan-African e-Network in 2009 to deliver telemedicine and tele-education via satellite and fiber-optic infrastructure.

3. Governance-Centric Model: India is actively collaborating on DPI ecosystems, such as the Aadhaar system (India's biometric ID), UPI (Unified Payments Interface), CoWIN (COVID-19 vaccination platform), and DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing in education), tailoring these solutions to African countries’ specific needs.

4. Development-Centric Model: Indian solutions are open, scalable, and affordable, making them highly attractive for African countries looking to advance their digital infrastructures.

Recent India-Africa Digital Collaborations:

1. Togo (2021): Partnered with IIIT Bangalore to implement a national digital ID system using open-source platforms.

2. Zambia (2023): Collaborated with India’s Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure to support Zambia’s Smart Zambia Initiative, which seeks to digitize government services.

3. Namibia (2024): Signed an MoU with India’s NPCI to build a UPI-style instant payment system, strengthening digital financial services in the country.

4. Ghana: Working on linking its domestic payment system with UPI, facilitating seamless transactions between India and Ghana.

5. Zanzibar: IIT Madras is setting up its first overseas campus in Zanzibar, focusing on AI, Data Science, and other cutting-edge fields to further integrate education with digital development.

India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA) on Global Digital Equity:

India, Brazil, and South Africa, as members of the G20 Troika, have emphasized the importance of DPI in bridging global inequality. Their joint declaration calls for open, modular, interoperable, and scalable digital systems that are inclusive and adaptable core principles that guide India’s engagement with Africa.

Challenges to Transformation:

While the potential for digital growth in Africa is vast, several challenges remain:

1. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many African nations lack broadband access, with only 22% of the population using mobile internet. There is also a pressing need for reliable energy systems to power digital ecosystems.

2. Affordability: High mobile data costs make digital services inaccessible to a large portion of the population, especially in rural areas.

3. Digital Divide: A large rural-urban gap, coupled with a gender gap in digital literacy and access, hinders equitable growth.

4. Digital Literacy Gaps: A lack of technical skills among many populations prevents them from fully utilizing digital tools.

5. Regulatory Barriers: Inconsistent policies across African nations can slow down the seamless integration of digital technologies.

Way Forward

India can contribute significantly to Africa’s digital future by addressing the key challenges outlined above through a variety of strategic initiatives:

1. Capacity-Building and Skill Development: Leveraging initiatives like Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and the Pan-African e-Network Project, India can help strengthen local capacities in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

2. Ethical & Inclusive Growth: India’s approach prioritizes co-development rather than imposing rigid frameworks. Working with African governments on data protection, cybersecurity, and policy alignment ensures that the digital transformation is ethical, secure, and respects local governance.

3. Strengthening Infrastructure: India has invested $12 billion in concessional credit, supporting more than 200 infrastructure projects across Africa, ranging from railways to rural electrification. This investment in connectivity and power infrastructure is critical for a thriving digital ecosystem.

4. Promoting Sustainable Digital Trade: As Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner, India can foster financial inclusion and cross-border trade by linking African economies to India’s digital payment systems, such as UPI.

Conclusion:

India’s collaboration with Africa on Digital Public Infrastructure holds transformative potential, not just for Africa’s economic development, but also for building a more inclusive digital future. As India continues to offer affordable, open, and scalable solutions, its role as a key partner in Africa’s digital transformation will only grow. The next steps will involve overcoming infrastructure, affordability, and policy barriers while ensuring that digital tools remain accessible, inclusive, and adaptable to local contexts.

The International Day for Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems, observed annually on 26th July, serves as a vital reminder of the urgent need to protect mangroves, which are disappearing at an alarming rate, 3-5 times faster than global forests. The day was officially adopted by UNESCO’s General Conference in 2015 to raise awareness about these vulnerable ecosystems and to promote their sustainable management, conservation, and use.

Mangroves:

• Mangroves are coastal ecosystems that consist of salt-tolerant trees and shrubs thriving in intertidal zones of tropical and subtropical regions. They are uniquely adapted to survive in saline, low-oxygen environments and play a crucial role in protecting coastal areas and supporting biodiversity.

  • Common species include Red Mangrove, Grey Mangrove, and Rhizophora.

  • Mangroves store carbon efficiently, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation.

  • They serve as nurseries for marine life and are home to a variety of species, including the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and estuarine crocodiles.

Global Mangrove Degradation

• According to UNESCO and IUCN data, global mangrove cover has halved since 1985, and 50% of the remaining ecosystems are at risk of collapse. This loss is primarily driven by:

  1. Land conversion for agriculture, aquaculture, and urbanization.

  2. Pollution (e.g., oil spills and industrial effluents).

  3. Climate change, leading to sea-level rise and increasing cyclonic activity.

Significance of Mangroves

1. Carbon Sequestration:

   • Mangroves are extraordinary in their carbon storage capacity, storing up to 394 tonnes of carbon per hectare. This is much higher than most terrestrial forests, and their ability to lock carbon in saline soils makes them essential for climate mitigation.

2. Coastal Protection:

   • Mangroves act as natural barriers against storm surges, tsunamis, and coastal erosion. Their dense root systems absorb wave energy and stabilize shorelines, significantly reducing flood depths and wave energy during extreme storms.

3. Biodiversity Hotspots:

   • Mangrove ecosystems are home to 5,746 species (84% of which are animals) across 21 phyla in India alone, making it the most biodiverse mangrove region globally.

   • Mangroves also contribute to food security and livelihoods, supporting fishing industries and other coastal activities.

Mangrove Restoration: The Fishbone Technique

• One key restoration approach is the Fishbone Channel Technique, which aims to improve tidal flow in areas where it’s poor. This method involves:

  • Creating a central backbone channel and angled feeder channels to divert water from creeks, mimicking the natural creek system.

  • This improves salinity levels and water flow, creating a conducive environment for mangrove seedlings to thrive.

  • It enhances natural regeneration with minimal effort, making it a cost-effective restoration method.

Threats to Mangrove Ecosystems

1. Land Conversion for Agriculture: The conversion of mangrove forests for aquaculture and oil palm plantations is a significant driver of mangrove loss.

2. Pollution: Oil spills, plastic waste, and industrial effluents degrade mangrove ecosystems and hinder regeneration.

3. Climate Change: Sea-level rise and increased cyclone frequency are major threats, pushing mangrove ecosystems closer to extinction.

4. Invasive Species: Non-native species, such as Prosopis juliflora, threaten the integrity of native mangrove habitats by altering soil salinity and preventing natural regeneration.

India's Mangrove Cover and Conservation Efforts

• Mangrove cover in India stands at around 4,992 sq. km (0.15% of the country’s total land area), with West Bengal and Gujarat hosting the largest mangrove regions.

• India is taking active steps to conserve and restore mangrove ecosystems, including:

  • MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes), aimed at both restoration and livelihood generation.

  • Vana Samrakshana Samitis in Andhra Pradesh involve local communities in mangrove protection.

  • Increased government funding for mangrove plantation efforts and eco-tourism promotion to ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Key Initiatives for Mangrove Conservation

1. Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC): Focuses on international cooperation for mangrove conservation and climate change mitigation.

2. Mangroves for the Future (MFF): A regional initiative aimed at building awareness and fostering conservation actions.

3. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules: India has stringent regulations to safeguard mangroves from urbanization and industrial activities.

4. National Coastal Mission and CAMPA Funds: These initiatives are designed to support the protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems, including mangroves.

The Way Forward

1. Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Implement stronger laws to prevent deforestation and pollution in mangrove areas, and ensure enforcement of coastal zone regulations.

2. Community Participation: Engage local communities in conservation through initiatives like "adopt a mangrove" and sustainable livelihood programs.

3. Research and Technology: Promote the use of drones and AI for real-time monitoring, and invest in medicinal research and phytoremediation (use of plants to clean polluted areas).

4. Bio-restoration: Focus on rehabilitating degraded mangrove areas using native species and ensuring the long-term resilience of ecosystems.

5. Sustainable Development: Integrate mangrove ecosystems into coastal urban planning and sustainable aquaculture practices to promote long-term ecological health.

6. International Collaboration: Use global platforms such as the Ramsar Convention and Blue Carbon Initiative to encourage cross-border conservation efforts.

World Nature Conservation Day (28th July)

This day, observed just after the Mangrove Conservation Day, underscores the critical need for environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. It complements efforts like India's LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, which advocates for sustainable living and environmentally friendly practices.

Conclusion

Mangroves are irreplaceable ecosystems that provide climate mitigation, coastal protection, and biodiversity support. However, they are under severe threat from human activities and climate change. Strong conservation efforts, community involvement, and international collaboration are needed to ensure the protection and restoration of these invaluable ecosystems. Their sustainability is integral not only for coastal areas but also for global climate resilience

The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) 2025 report presents a mixed picture of global progress in combating hunger, highlighting both positive trends and pressing challenges, especially for countries like India.

Global Hunger and Food Insecurity - Key Highlights

1. Global Hunger Trends:

   • 673 million people worldwide faced hunger in 2024, which is 8.2% of the global population. While this is a slight improvement from 8.5% in 2023, hunger is still above pre-pandemic levels.

   • By 2030, approximately 512 million people may remain chronically undernourished, with nearly 60% of them in Africa.

   • The report warns that achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) will require substantial policy shifts, greater investment, and a reformed food system.

2. Food Insecurity:

   • 2.3 billion people globally suffer from moderate or severe food insecurity.

   • Factors such as the pandemic and the Ukraine war worsened food price inflation, making healthy diets unaffordable for many. However, the number of people unable to afford a healthy diet has dropped from 2.76 billion in 2019 to 2.60 billion in 2024.

3. Regional Breakdown:

   • Asia remains the region with the highest number of undernourished people, at 323 million, followed by Africa at 307 million, and Latin America and the Caribbean at 34 million.

India’s Nutritional Paradox

India faces significant challenges in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, despite some improvements.

1. Undernourishment and Diet Affordability:

   • 12% of India's population (approximately 172 million people) remain undernourished, a decrease from 243 million in 2006, but still high globally.

   • About 42.9% of Indians cannot afford a healthy diet, with food prices rising from USD 2.77 (2017) to USD 4.07 (2024), making it financially challenging for many.

2. Double Burden of Malnutrition:

   • India faces a double burden: both undernutrition (stunting, wasting) and overnutrition (overweight and obesity) are rising.

   • Child wasting (18.7%) remains a major concern, with 21 million children affected, making India the country with the highest child wasting rate globally.

   • Child stunting affects 37.4 million children under five.

   • Overweight children have increased from 2.7 million in 2012 to 4.2 million in 2024, signaling a shift toward overnutrition.

   • Adult obesity in India has more than doubled, rising from 33.6 million to 71.4 million.

3. Anaemia in Women:

   • Over 53.7% of Indian women aged 15-49 suffer from anaemia, which is a severe health concern, and India ranks 4th globally in terms of anaemia prevalence.

Key Malnutrition Indicators

1. Stunting: Delayed growth and poor cognitive development.

2. Wasting: An indicator of severe malnutrition, leading to weakened immune systems and increased vulnerability to diseases.

3. Overweight: Risk of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers.

4. Underweight: Heightened risk of death and impaired growth.

Causes of India’s Nutrition Paradox

India's nutrition paradox stems from a mix of systemic issues:

1. Persistent Poverty and Inequality:

   • Malnutrition remains concentrated among socio-economically marginalized communities, especially in rural and tribal areas.

2. Inadequate Dietary Diversity:

   • While calories may be sufficient, India struggles with hidden hunger, due to a lack of access to micronutrients (fruits, vegetables, proteins).

3. High Food Prices:

   • Inflation of nutrient-dense foods such as milk, pulses, and fruits makes healthy diets unaffordable for many.

4. Health Service Gaps:

   • Primary health systems lack adequate services, including antenatal care, anaemia screening, and nutrition counseling.

5. Nutrition Transition:

   • Urbanization and increased incomes have shifted diets towards processed foods, contributing to rising obesity rates among both children and adults.

India’s Current Schemes on Food and Nutritional Security

India has several initiatives aimed at improving food security and nutrition:

1. Public Distribution System (PDS):

   • As of 2025, covers over 80 crore people, with nearly 100% automation of Fair Price Shops (FPSs) to ensure transparent food grain delivery.

2. PM POSHAN:

   • Provides mid-day meals to school children, aimed at improving both nutrition and school attendance.

3. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY):

   • Ensures 5 kg of free foodgrains per month to 81.35 crore people, extended until 2029.

4. POSHAN Abhiyaan:

   • Aimed at reducing malnutrition among women, children, and adolescents, with over 10 crore beneficiaries by 2024.

5. PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME):

   • Supports micro food enterprises, creating 1.88 lakh jobs and setting up 54,000 units by 2023-24.

6. Price Stabilization Efforts:

   • Efforts like buffer stocks and subsidized Bharat food products (e.g., rice, dal, atta) help keep essential food items affordable.

Strategies Needed to Tackle India’s Nutritional Paradox

1. Invest in Local Food Systems:

   • Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and local food processing units should be supported. Strengthening agricultural market information systems can help manage price fluctuations.

2. Improve Dietary Diversity:

   • Promote the cultivation of millets (Shree Anna) and region-specific crops. Encourage kitchen gardens to diversify diets and enhance nutritional security.

3. Combat Anaemia:

   • Expand initiatives like Anaemia Mukt Bharat with iron-folic acid supplementation, deworming, and therapeutic dosing.

4. Address Obesity and Promote Healthy Lifestyles:

   • Implement a Suposhan Abhiyan to tackle both undernutrition and obesity. Encourage mindful eating and promote physical activity.

   • Consider taxing junk food, subsidizing healthy foods, and integrating nutrition education in schools.

5. Strengthen Food Access for Migrant Workers:

   • Expand the One Nation, One Ration Card scheme to ensure food security for migrant workers across India.

Conclusion

India's nutritional paradox presents a dual challenge of rising malnutrition, including undernutrition (stunting, wasting) and overnutrition (obesity). Addressing this requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on improving dietary diversity, enhancing nutritional programs, and tackling poverty and inequality. The SOFI 2025 report highlights the ongoing challenges and provides a roadmap for improving global food security, with India needing to invest more in local food systems, health services, and sustainable agricultural practices to combat malnutrition effectively.

The Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) project is a significant scientific effort aimed at sequencing the genomes of 70,000 species of eukaryotic organisms from Britain and Ireland. This initiative is part of a larger global goal called the Earth BioGenome Project, which seeks to sequence the DNA of all complex life on Earth.

Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project

• Objective: The project seeks to create high-quality genomic data for 70,000 species in Britain and Ireland. This will include species across plants, fungi, animals, and protists.

• Goal: Ultimately, the DToL is part of the Earth BioGenome Project, which aims to sequence the genomes of every eukaryotic species on Earth. This is a monumental task, providing insights into the genetics and biodiversity of life on the planet.

• Technology Used: Advanced DNA sequencing technologies and cutting-edge computational tools are being used to generate detailed genomic data. These tools also help researchers understand how the genetic code translates into the vast diversity of life.

• Collaboration: The project is a collaboration between multiple biodiversity, genomics, and analysis partners. This helps bring together the expertise and resources needed to tackle such a large-scale effort.

What Are Eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes are organisms with complex cells. Their cells differ from prokaryotes (like bacteria) in a few key ways:

• Defined Nucleus: Eukaryotic cells have a clearly defined nucleus, which houses the organism’s genetic material in the form of chromosomes.

• Organelles: These cells contain several specialized structures (organelles) such as mitochondria (energy production), Golgi apparatus (protein processing), and endoplasmic reticulum (protein and lipid synthesis).

• Reproduction: Eukaryotes can reproduce through mitosis (asexual reproduction) or meiosis (sexual reproduction), involving gamete fusion.

Examples of eukaryotic organisms include plants, animals, fungi, and protists (e.g., algae and protozoa).

Earth BioGenome Project

• The Earth BioGenome Project seeks to sequence the genomes of all eukaryotic species on Earth. This includes millions of species spread across all ecosystems. The aim is to create a comprehensive genetic blueprint of life, which would not only enhance our understanding of biodiversity but also inform efforts to preserve it.

• This large-scale genomic effort is a first step in understanding the biological blueprint of life, potentially leading to breakthroughs in multiple scientific fields.

Why is the Darwin Tree of Life Project Important?

The DToL project, as a part of the broader Earth BioGenome Project, plays a crucial role in documenting the vast diversity of life on Earth. The findings will contribute to:

1. Conservation: By identifying genetic markers for endangered species, the project could help focus conservation efforts.

2. Human Medicine: Understanding the genetics of different species could lead to discoveries in disease treatment and drug development.

3. Ecological Understanding: Knowing the genetic basis of different species’ roles in ecosystems can aid in better understanding ecological relationships.

The completion of the first phase of the Darwin Tree of Life project is a key milestone in this ambitious effort. The ongoing analysis of the data and the integration of computational tools will help unlock the mysteries of how genetics shapes biodiversity.

The Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI) is a significant collaborative effort aimed at conserving and restoring wetlands across the Indo-Burma region. The initiative recently gained attention with its side event at the Ramsar COP15.

About Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI)

The IBRRI is a joint initiative developed by the Ramsar National Focal Points (NFPs) of the following countries:

• Cambodia

• Laos (Lao People's Democratic Republic)

• Myanmar

• Thailand

• Vietnam

Additionally, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), through its Asia Regional Office, has been instrumental in supporting this initiative, specifically through the BRIDGE (Building River Dialogue and Governance) project.

Objectives

The IBRRI aims to:

1. Support coordinated implementation of the Ramsar Convention's Strategic Plan.

2. Conserve and restore wetlands across the Indo-Burma region, which is home to some of the world's most important wetland ecosystems.

3. Strengthen governance and transparency in the management of wetlands in these regions.

The IBRRI Strategic Plan 2025–2030 was officially launched at COP15 of the Ramsar Convention, highlighting the region's commitment to addressing wetland loss and degradation.

Governance Structure

To ensure efficient management, IBRRI has set up a well-structured governance system:

• Steering Committee: Comprising representatives from the Ramsar Administrative Authorities of the five member countries. This committee oversees the overall implementation of the initiative.

• Secretariat: Hosted by the IUCN Asia Regional Office in Bangkok, this body ensures coordination and strategic direction.

• Stakeholder Committee: A key body that provides technical and strategic guidance, as well as serves as a platform for multi-stakeholder engagement, ensuring inclusivity and transparency in the implementation of IBRRI activities.

Strategic Plan 2025–2030

The Strategic Plan aims to establish a collaborative and transboundary framework for wetland conservation. Some of its key goals include:

• Halting and reversing wetland loss across the Indo-Burma region.

• Promoting sustainable management practices in wetland ecosystems.

• Strengthening regional cooperation to address shared challenges, such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

• Enhancing public awareness and support for wetland conservation through education and community involvement.

Significance of Wetlands in the Indo-Burma Region

• The Indo-Burma region contains some of the most biodiverse wetlands globally, providing critical habitat for numerous species, including migratory birds, fish, and other aquatic life.

• These wetlands play vital roles in supporting local livelihoods, including fishing, agriculture, and water supply. They also contribute to climate change mitigation by acting as carbon sinks.

The Investor Summit 2025’ organized by the Ministry of Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER) in New Delhi is a major event aimed at showcasing the immense investment and trade potential of Northeast India.

Key Highlights of the Summit

• Inauguration: The summit was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, who outlined the EAST Vision — Empower, Act, Strengthen, and Transform as the guiding principles for the region's development.

• Summit Agenda: The event is packed with ministerial sessions, Business-to-Government (B2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings, and an exhibition zone, designed to foster business collaboration and investment partnerships.

• Focus Sectors: The summit focuses on sectors that hold immense potential for development:

  • Agriculture, Food Processing & Allied Sectors

  • Textiles, Handloom & Handicrafts

  • Entertainment and Sports

  • Education & Skill Development

  • Healthcare

  • IT & ITES

  • Tourism & Hospitality

  • Infrastructure and Logistics

  • Energy

• Objective: The event serves as a platform for policy discussions, promoting business collaborations and exploring investment opportunities that can accelerate the Northeast’s development.

About Northeast India

The Northeast Region of India comprises eight states:

• Arunachal Pradesh

• Assam

• Manipur

• Meghalaya

• Mizoram

• Nagaland

• Sikkim

• Tripura

• Geographical Area: The region covers 7.97% of India’s total land area.

• Population: Around 3.78% of India's population lives in the Northeast.

• Terrain: Over 54% of the population resides in hilly areas.

• International Borders: The region shares a 5,484 km border with neighboring countries:

  • Bangladesh: 1,880 km

  • Myanmar: 1,643 km

  • China: 1,346 km

  • Bhutan: 516 km

  • Nepal: 99 km

• Strategic Positioning: Positioned as a gateway to ASEAN and East Asia, the region is integral to India's Act East Policy, aimed at improving ties with Southeast Asia.

Challenges Hindering Development

Despite its potential, the Northeast faces several challenges that hinder its development:

1. Geographical & Connectivity Issues:

   • Rugged terrain and heavy monsoons make infrastructure development difficult.

   • Limited road and rail networks restrict trade and mobility within the region and with neighboring countries.

2. Political & Ethnic Conflicts:

   • Historical insurgency and ethnic tensions have disrupted stability in the region.

   • Various separatist movements, such as the Naga and Mizo movements, and the ULFA and NDFB in Assam, have created governance challenges.

3. Economic Underdevelopment:

   • The region contributes only about 2.8% to India's GDP, with Assam being the largest contributor.

   • Over-reliance on agriculture, limited industrialization, and lack of diversified economic activities slow down growth.

4. Environmental Challenges:

   • Deforestation, floods, and landslides impact agriculture and infrastructure.

   • Climate change is threatening biodiversity and traditional livelihoods.

5. Policy & Governance Gaps:

   • Delayed implementation of policies, such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya, and poor coordination between the central and state governments have created hurdles for timely development.

Policy Shifts and Transformations

In response to these challenges, there has been a significant strategic shift in how the government approaches the Northeast:

1. From Insurgency to Integration:

   • Historically, the Northeast was viewed through a security lens. However, recent years have seen a shift towards development and integration.

   • The Look East Policy (initiated by the Narasimha Rao government) later evolved into the Act East Policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014.

2. Era of Infrastructure and Integration:

   • The region has become central to India’s economic and geopolitical vision.

   • Several government initiatives like NESIDS (North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme) and PM-DevINE (Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East) are working to improve roads, water supply, and power infrastructure.

3. Key Infrastructure Projects:

   • India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway

   • Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project

   • Revival of Stilwell Road

   • The Sittwe Port (Myanmar) and Chittagong Port (Bangladesh) are critical for boosting maritime trade in the region.

4. Government Support:

   • Investment in the region has been accelerated with $1 billion for infrastructure projects under NESIDS and over $5 billion allocated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for road development.

Conclusion

The ‘Rising Northeast’ Investor Summit symbolizes the transformation of the region from one that was historically marginalized into a dynamic investment hub. With continued political engagement, enhanced connectivity, and commitment to infrastructure development, the Northeast is well on its way to becoming India’s gateway to Southeast Asia.By leveraging its strategic geographical position, rich natural resources, and untapped sectors, the region holds immense promise for both domestic and international investors. The Rising Northeast Summit is an important step in positioning the region as an investment hotspot in India.

A team of researchers from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) in New Delhi and the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Guwahati has discovered a novel approach for treating liver cirrhosis, which could bring new hope to those suffering from this severe liver condition.

About Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a progressive and irreversible scarring of the liver tissue caused by various conditions over a long period. As the disease progresses, healthy liver tissue gets replaced by scar tissue, impairing liver function.

Causes of Cirrhosis:

• Alcohol consumption: Chronic alcoholism can lead to cirrhosis.

• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): A condition where fat accumulates in the liver causing inflammation and damage.

• Hepatitis B and C: Viral infections that lead to chronic liver inflammation and damage.

Symptoms of Cirrhosis:

• Fatigue and tiredness.

• Easy bruising or bleeding.

• Loss of appetite and weight loss.

• Edema: Swelling of the legs, feet, or ankles.

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes (in advanced stages).

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Cirrhosis is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making early detection crucial. Once diagnosed, the disease can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes such as:

• Abstinence from alcohol.

• Antiviral medications for viral infections like hepatitis B and C.

• Nutritional support and medications to reduce complications such as swelling and bleeding.

Breakthrough Discovery in Treatment

The collaborative research conducted by ILBS and NIPER has introduced a new approach in treating liver cirrhosis. While the specifics of the treatment strategy have not been detailed in the update, the discovery could involve new drug formulations, novel therapeutic techniques, or targeted interventions that aim to reverse or halt the progression of cirrhosis.

This breakthrough is significant because, traditionally, cirrhosis has been considered an irreversible condition once it reaches the later stages. The current research could lead to more effective treatments that not only manage cirrhosis but potentially regenerate liver tissue or address the root causes of scarring.

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia has commenced the production of its latest hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik. Additionally, he reaffirmed plans to deploy the missile in Belarus before the end of 2025.

About the Oreshnik Missile

The Oreshnik missile is an intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, designed to achieve speeds many times greater than the speed of sound, making it an incredibly challenging target for interception.

Key Features of the Oreshnik Missile:

1. Speed: The Oreshnik is capable of reaching speeds of Mach 10 (10 times the speed of sound), enabling it to cover vast distances in a very short time.

2. Mid-Flight Maneuverability: Unlike traditional ballistic missiles, which follow a predictable trajectory, the Oreshnik can maneuver mid-flight, making it much harder to predict and intercept.

3. Multiple Warheads (MIRVs): The missile can carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles, allowing it to strike several distinct targets simultaneously. These targets could be hit with either conventional or nuclear warheads.

4. Range: The missile has a reported range of approximately 5,000 kilometers (about 3,100 miles), allowing it to target distant locations with great precision.

5. Mobile, Solid-Fueled: The Oreshnik is a mobile missile system, which means it can be transported and launched from various locations, enhancing its strategic flexibility. It is also solid-fueled, providing quicker launch readiness and mobility.

First Operational Use

• November 21, 2024: The Oreshnik missile was first operationally launched in a precision strike targeting the Pivdenmash defense-industrial facility in Dnipro, Ukraine. This demonstrates its deployment capabilities in real-world conflict scenarios.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of the Block 2 BlueBird communications satellite in the coming three to four months. Developed by AST SpaceMobile, a U.S.-based aerospace company, this satellite represents a significant leap in communications technology.

About the Bluebird Satellite

The Bluebird satellite is an advanced communications satellite designed to revolutionize the way mobile communications and broadband internet services are delivered.

Key Features of the Bluebird Satellite:

1. Technology: The satellite is equipped with cutting-edge technology that will enable users to make calls directly from smartphones via satellite, bypassing traditional ground-based mobile towers.

2. Antenna: The Bluebird satellite boasts a massive antenna spanning 64 square meters. This large antenna will play a crucial role in transmitting data directly between smartphones and the satellite in low Earth orbit (LEO).

3. Weight: The satellite weighs approximately 6,000 kilograms, indicating its substantial size and capacity to support various communication technologies.

4. Orbit: The satellite will operate in low Earth orbit (LEO), allowing it to be closer to Earth and thus reduce latency for communication and data transmission.

5. Direct Smartphone Connections: Unlike traditional satellites that rely on ground stations or towers for communication, the Bluebird satellite will allow direct satellite-to-smartphone connections, enabling users to make calls and access broadband internet from space.

6. Data Transmission Speeds: The satellite's beams are designed to support a capacity of up to 40 MHz, which will enable peak data transmission speeds of up to 120 Mbps. This means users will be able to access high-speed internet even in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

7. Service Area: Initially, the Bluebird satellites will provide non-continuous cellular broadband service primarily across the United States, with plans to expand to select global markets.

Launched in 2015, India's Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was conceived to tackle urban challenges using technology and sustainable development practices. The mission has witnessed significant investments and has transformed several urban centers through technology-driven solutions. However, as recent challenges like severe flooding in Bengaluru and Pune highlight, maintenance and sustainability remain key concerns.

Objectives and Features of the Smart Cities Mission

The mission's core focus is on enhancing urban infrastructure, improving governance, and promoting sustainable development. It integrates digital tools and aims to make cities more liveable, economically viable, and resilient to future challenges.

• Core Goals:

  • Improved urban infrastructure (roads, sanitation, water supply).

  • Sustainability through eco-friendly and efficient solutions.

  • Smart governance through technology-based decision-making.

  • Economic growth by creating better business environments.

• Operational Framework:

  • Selection Process: 100 cities were chosen through a competitive process, where local bodies submitted proposals for infrastructure projects.

  • Execution via SPVs: Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) manage the execution of projects, often bypassing local governments.

  • Funding: The central government allocated ₹48,000 crore, with an equal matching requirement from states or Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). In addition, funding is raised through municipal bonds and public-private partnerships (PPP).

• Projects & Investments:

  • Over 8,000 projects have been sanctioned, with an investment of ₹1.67 lakh crore across the 100 cities.

  • Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) were set up for real-time monitoring and decision-making.

Challenges in the Smart Cities Mission

Despite significant progress, the SCM has encountered several hurdles, particularly around maintenance, sustainability, and governance.

1. Maintenance & Sustainability

One of the most pressing issues has been maintenance. While infrastructure upgrades were made, cities like Bengaluru and Pune continue to struggle with issues like flooding and poor drainage systems. The core problem lies in the lack of clear guidelines for long-term asset maintenance. Without proactive care, smart city assets—such as smart lighting, water management systems, and surveillance technologies—are prone to deterioration, leading to the failure of long-term sustainability.

2. Governance & Implementation Issues

The governance model of the SCM has been a point of contention. The reliance on SPVs (special-purpose vehicles) for execution of projects, which are often set up as independent entities, means local governments have limited direct oversight. This has caused a disconnect between the elected representatives and the executing agencies, which weakens transparency, accountability, and long-term planning.

Furthermore, many cities have faced delays in project implementation, and a 7% backlog of unfinished projects is expected by the conclusion of the mission in March 2025. This raises concerns about unfinished urban planning, leading to uncertainty about the future of these projects.

3. Financial & Strategic Concerns

While significant funds have been allocated, the mission’s grant structure lacks a cohesive national strategy, leading to inefficiencies in fund disbursement. There is also a lack of coordination between different levels of government (central, state, and local bodies), which further complicates the timely execution and completion of projects.

4. Climate Resilience

Extreme weather events, such as flooding, are becoming more frequent, as observed in Bengaluru and Pune. These cities, despite being part of the Smart Cities Mission, were unprepared for the level of rainfall and water runoff. Climate-resilient urban planning, focusing on drainage systems, green infrastructure, and stormwater management, needs to be integrated into the mission more effectively.

Long-Term Strategy

1. Focus on Maintenance and Sustainability

The most significant challenge going forward is to ensure that upgraded infrastructure continues to function efficiently after the initial development phase. Long-term strategies for asset maintenance, monitoring, and performance tracking should be embedded within the governance structure from the outset. Proactive management is critical to avoid repeating cycles of neglect and reconstruction.

2. Expanding Digital Infrastructure

To ensure that smart cities truly live up to their name, a continued investment in technology is vital. Building digital infrastructure—like real-time monitoring systems, AI-based traffic management, and IoT-enabled urban services—will help improve the efficiency, responsiveness, and sustainability of urban systems.

3. Citizen-Centric Urban Planning

Involving elected city councils and encouraging citizen participation in urban planning will enhance transparency and accountability. By ensuring public feedback is taken into account, cities can be more responsive to the needs of the people and align development with local priorities.

4. Climate Change Adaptation

Cities should incorporate climate change resilience into the smart city design, including flood management, water conservation, and green building strategies. Addressing the environmental challenges such as deforestation, floods, and land degradation will be critical to the long-term viability of the mission.

5. Strengthening Governance and Implementation

There is a need for a stronger alignment between local governments and the SPVs. Ensuring that local governments are integrated into the decision-making process will help streamline implementation and reduce delays.

Conclusion

India’s Smart Cities Mission has achieved notable successes in transforming urban landscapes through technology, but it is clear that maintenance, sustainability, and governance remain critical challenges. The mission's future success will depend on addressing these concerns with a clear long-term vision, a well-coordinated national strategy, and a focus on inclusive and resilient urban planning. By ensuring proactive governance, continued investment in digital infrastructure, and active citizen engagement, India’s smart cities can live up to their full potential in the coming years.

A significant development has occurred where scientists and tribal farmers from Northeast India have raised a request with the Central Government to include the Mithun (Bos frontalis) under key central sector schemes like the National Livestock Mission (NLM). This move is intended to protect and promote the conservation and sustainable development of Mithun farming.

About Mithun (Bos frontalis)

The Mithun, also known as gayal, is a semi-domesticated bovine species that plays an important cultural, economic, and ecological role, especially in Northeast India.

Origin and History:

• Believed to have originated over 8,000 years ago, Mithun is considered a descendant of the wild Indian gaur (Indian bison).

• It is often referred to as the ‘cattle of the mountain’ due to its affinity for the hilly terrains of the Northeast.

Distribution:

• The highest concentration of Mithuns is found in the Northeast region of India, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, which has the largest population.

• It is also present in parts of Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Bhutan.

• Mithuns are adapted to live in the tropical evergreen rainforests of these regions.

• The state animal of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, Mithun holds cultural and traditional significance in these areas, with its importance highlighted during the ‘Soulung Festival’, celebrated annually by the Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh.

Mithun Features:

• Appearance: Mithun resembles the Guar (Indian bison) but is generally smaller in size.

  • Weight: Typically weighs between 400-650 kg.

  • Distinctive Features:

    • Head: Broad frontal bone with a flat-shaped face, which gives it an inverted triangle shape from the front.

    • Horns: The horns vary in color from whitish-yellow to salty black.

    • Skin Color: Blackish-brown skin with a creamy white or yellowish forehead.

• Behavior: They move in small groups, typically comprising one or two males, along with several females and calves.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: Mithun is classified as Vulnerable, indicating a risk of extinction in the wild.

• CITES: Listed in Appendix I, which includes species that are threatened with extinction and are prohibited from international trade unless under exceptional circumstances.

Recently, there have been changes to the boundaries of the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary (NWS), as reported by the Rajasthan Forest Department. These modifications are said to benefit luxury hotels and commercial establishments within the sanctuary and its Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ).

About Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary (NWS)

Location:

• Proximity: Situated just 20 kilometers from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.

• Area: Spans over 720 hectares and is located within the Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.

Historical Significance:

• The sanctuary is named after the Nahargarh Fort, a historic fort built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur.

Flora and Fauna:

• Flora: The vegetation in the sanctuary consists mainly of dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands.

• Fauna:

  • The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including leopards, wild boars, deer, lions, tigers, sloth bears, and several small mammals.

  • Birdlife: It’s a paradise for bird watchers, with species like peacocks, owls, and eagles.

  • Reptiles: The sanctuary also houses reptiles like Indian rock pythons, monitor lizards, and amphibians such as frogs and toads.

Nahargarh Biological Park:

• A significant part of the Nahargarh Sanctuary is the Nahargarh Biological Park, which is renowned for its lion safaris.

Red panda cubs have been born after a 7-year gap at the Himalayan Zoological Park near Sikkim's capital, Gangtok.

About Red Panda

The Red Panda (also known as the lesser panda) is a unique and endangered species native to the Eastern Himalayas and parts of Southeast Asia. Known for their cute appearance and shy, solitary behavior, red pandas are an important part of the ecosystem and have significant ecological value.

Key Features:

• Diet: Primarily herbivorous, with a diet that includes bamboo, acorns, berries, and roots.

• Behavior: Red pandas are shy, solitary, and arboreal, spending most of their time in trees. They are known for using their long, bushy tails for balance while navigating treetops and for warmth during the cold winter months.

• Appearance: They are about the size of a house cat, with reddish-brown fur, a white face, and distinctive markings that make them easily recognizable. Their cute face and unique defense stance (standing upright to appear larger) have contributed to their widespread appeal.

Distribution:

• Red pandas are found in the mountainous forests of several countries across Asia, including Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, and Nepal. Their habitat is typically in the temperate forests of the Eastern Himalayas.

Conservation Status

The red panda faces serious threats to its survival in the wild:

• IUCN Red List: The red panda is classified as Endangered, with a declining population due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

• CITES: Listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), meaning international trade in red pandas is prohibited unless under special conditions.

• Wildlife Protection Act 1972: The species is included in Schedule I, which provides the highest level of legal protection in India.

Major Threats:

• Habitat Loss: The destruction of nesting trees and bamboo forests, which make up the primary food source for red pandas, has been a major driver of population decline.

• Climate Change: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns affect the distribution of bamboo, further threatening the survival of red pandas.

• Poaching: Though less widespread, poaching for the fur trade and illegal pet trade poses a risk to their survival.

What Are Indicator Species?

Red pandas are classified as indicator species, which means their health and population can serve as a reflection of the overall health of their environment. In the case of red pandas, changes in their population and habitat quality can provide early warning signs of environmental degradation, such as:

• Loss of biodiversity due to habitat destruction.

• Environmental changes caused by deforestation, illegal logging, or climate change.

Indicator species can help scientists and conservationists understand the state of an ecosystem, guiding conservation and management efforts to protect the environment and its inhabitants.