The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) is currently in the final phase of testing its Integrated Portal, a unified digital platform aimed at simplifying the claim processes and improving accessibility for both investors and companies. This initiative is expected to enhance the ease of interaction with the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF), making it more efficient for investors to claim their unclaimed dividends, matured deposits, shares, and other financial assets.

About the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA)

The IEPFA was established in 2016 under the Companies Act, 2013 with the core mission to manage the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF), which is a fund dedicated to safeguarding the interests of investors in India.

Key Functions of IEPFA:

• Management of IEPF: The IEPFA is tasked with managing the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF), which primarily consists of unclaimed financial assets that have remained dormant for 7 years or more. These include:

  • Unpaid dividends.

  • Application money that is due for refund.

  • Matured deposits and debentures.

  • Interest on investments from the fund.

  • Grants or donations received from the government or other entities.

• Refunds to Investors: One of IEPFA's primary roles is to make refunds of unclaimed financial assets, such as shares, dividends, and debentures, to the rightful investors.

• Promoting Investor Awareness: The IEPFA runs various programs to educate investors about their rights, investment opportunities, and the importance of safeguarding their investments. This includes a focus on financial literacy and awareness campaigns.

Flagship Initiatives:

• Niveshak Didi: A program aimed at empowering women to make informed financial decisions and educate their families about financial matters.

• Niveshak Panchayat: A community-based initiative that connects investors at the local level to build awareness about investment safety, rights, and protection.

• Niveshak Shivir: An outreach program designed to train investors on the best practices for handling their investments and dealing with issues related to unclaimed assets.

Nodal Ministry:

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the nodal ministry for the IEPFA, overseeing its operations and ensuring the execution of its various initiatives related to investor protection and financial education.

Importance of the Integrated Portal:

The introduction of the Integrated Portal by IEPFA aims to make the entire process of claiming unclaimed assets more transparent, efficient, and user-friendly. The platform is expected to:

• Streamline claim submissions: By providing a centralized system where investors can track and claim their unclaimed assets, such as dividends and matured deposits.

• Enhance accessibility: The portal will be easily accessible to investors, making it easier for them to access necessary services online.

• Boost investor confidence: By reducing the complexity and bureaucracy of the process, the portal is expected to increase investor trust and engagement.

The Matri Van Initiative was ceremonially launched by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, alongside the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs.

About the Matri Van Initiative

The Matri Van is part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ program, which aims to foster environmental awareness and sustainable urban development through large-scale plantation drives and ecological restoration.

Key Highlights of the Matri Van Initiative:

• Location: The initiative will be developed in a sprawling 750 acres area within the Aravalli Hill range, which stretches across the national capital region.

• Theme-Based Urban Forest: Matri Van is envisioned as a theme-based urban forest dedicated to creating a green space that celebrates nature-inspired growth. The focus will be on nurturing not just trees, but future generations through a closer connection to nature.

• Biodiversity and Public Well-being: The goal of the Matri Van is to contribute to the biodiversity of the region, enhance public health, and improve the quality of urban life by providing a much-needed green space in the city.

Components of the Matri Van

The project is designed to create a space that offers both ecological benefits and community engagement.

1. Ecological Restoration:

   • The existing non-native bushes, such as Kabuli Kikar (Prosopis juliflora), will be removed, and the area will be reforested with native species like Dhak (Butea monosperma) and Amaltash (Cassia fistula) trees.

   • These plantations will help restore the local ecology and reduce the ecological footprint of invasive species.

2. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration:

   • The project will see the involvement of various stakeholders such as CSR partners, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), NGOs, multinational corporations (MNCs), school children, and government agencies.

   • This collaboration will allow the initiative to gain widespread support, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the environment among citizens and organizations.

3. Public Amenities and Eco-Tourism:

   • Nature trails for eco-walks and nature education.

   • Cycle tracks to promote sustainable transportation within the area.

   • Yoga and meditation spaces to encourage physical and mental well-being.

   • Sitting areas/gazebos where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

   • Public facilities like restrooms, parking spaces, and amenities at four corners for visitors’ convenience.

   • The area will also include waterbodies at selected locations to enhance water conservation efforts and help control urban flooding.

4. Water Management:

   • A treated water irrigation system will be installed for sustainable water use, along with misting and sprinkling systems to maintain humidity levels and keep the area green.

   • The inclusion of water bodies will help with rainwater harvesting, contributing to conservation efforts and mitigating the risk of flooding during heavy rains.

The Panchayati Raj system and municipal bodies serve as the first point of contact between citizens and the state. However, grassroots governance in India often struggles with inaccessible, detailed data, which limits the ability of panchayat leaders to assess their communities effectively.

The Importance of Micro Data at the Local Level

Micro data collected at the household or community levelis crucial for making informed decisions in local governance.

1. Understanding Intra-Village Inequalities:

   • Localized data can help identify social hierarchies (such as caste-based exclusion) and inequalities within villages that are not visible at the district or state level. This is particularly important for targeting welfare programs accurately.

2. Identifying Hyperlocal Priorities:

   • Data specific to individual communities can reveal issues like water stress, migration patterns, or women's unpaid labor that a macro-level approach may overlook.

3. Enabling Evidence-Based Decision Making:

   • Micro data can enable panchayats to make decisions based on actual community needs—ensuring that public services (water, sanitation, education) are effectively delivered and that welfare programs are monitored for effectiveness.

4. Improving Monitoring and Evaluation:

   • With localized data, panchayats can track progress on various indicators (e.g., SDGs) in real-time, making it easier to adjust programs and improve outcomes.

Challenges in Implementing Micro Data in Local Governance

1. Usability of Available Data:

   • While the government provides enormous datasets through platforms like the National Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy (NDSAP), these are often unfriendly for the public, even for trained researchers. The format of these datasets and their complexity limits their usability.

2. Localized Problems Not Captured in Macro-Data:

   • The ‘top-down’ approach to data collection often fails to capture hyperlocal issues. Problems such as caste-based exclusion or specific water scarcity in remote areas are invisible at higher levels of governance.

3. Disconnected Data at Grassroots:

   • Local data is often generated for use at higher administrative levels (e.g., by secretaries or departmental heads), leaving panchayat leaders without access to timely and actionable data.

4. Technical Limitations:

   • Panchayat leaders often lack the technical expertise to analyze and interpret complex datasets, making it difficult for them to make data-driven decisions.

5. Delayed Census and Inconsistent Data:

   • Census delays and the inconsistent availability of time-series data hinder the evidence-based policymaking process.

Other Key Challenges Facing Panchayats in India

1. Inadequate Financing:

   • Panchayats often depend heavily on funds from higher tiers of government. Revenue generation at the local level is limited. According to a study by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the average revenue per panchayat was ₹21.23 lakh in 2022-23, with only 1.1% coming from local taxes and fees.

2. Technological and Digital Literacy Gaps:

   • Low digital literacy and insufficient technological infrastructure make it hard for panchayats to leverage digital tools for governance. Real-time tracking of SDG progress is especially challenging without access to modern data infrastructure.

3. Fragmentation in Rural Governance:

   • Multiple government departments operate in villages without adequate coordination, leading to duplication of efforts and inefficient use of resources. The lack of convergence between schemes further hampers holistic development.

Key Steps Taken by the Government to Address These Challenges

1. Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Baseline Report (2022-23):

   • This report provides a micro-level assessment of panchayats, helping local leaders identify gaps and make informed decisions. The PAI is aligned with the Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs), making it an essential tool for monitoring local governance progress.

2. National Data and Analytics Platform (NDAP):

   • NDAP is a government initiative that provides easy access to datasets, allowing local bodies to analyze trends and improve governance. This platform simplifies data and facilitates data-driven policymaking.

3. Open Government Data (OGD) Platform:

   • The OGD Platform provides public access to datasets from various ministries and departments. This promotes transparency and enables local bodies to make informed decisions.

4. Role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs):

   • Over 4,000 institutions under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan can help enhance impact at the grassroots level. The ‘hand-holding’ model—complemented by expertise from CSOs and institutions—can support local governance and help achieve SDG targets.

5. Technological Integration:

   • eGramSwaraj: This digital governance tool, available in 22 languages, facilitates fund management and real-time monitoring.

   • SVAMITVA Scheme: Through drone surveys, over 3.17 lakh villages have received property cards, empowering rural property owners and improving land management.

   • Micro Matters Initiative: Under India’s G20 presidency, this initiative focuses on data-driven development using big data analytics, AI, and IoT to improve local governance.

Conclusion

Integrating micro data into local governance systems is crucial for strengthening panchayats and improving the quality of governance. By enabling data-driven decision-making, local institutions can become more efficient, responsive, and transparent in their operations. India’s investments in digital infrastructure and AI-driven data analytics aim to create a more efficient, accountable, and inclusive governance system at the grassroots level.

China is constructing a massive 60,000 MW hydropower project on the Yarlung Zangbo River (called the Brahmaputra in India and Jamuna in Bangladesh), located in Tibet near Gelling in Arunachal Pradesh. This mega-project, consisting of 5 cascade dams, was announced in 2021 and is expected to be completed by the 2030s. Once operational, it will be three times more powerful than the world’s largest hydropower station, the Three Gorges Dam.

Key Concerns for India

1. Ecological and Seismic Risks

• The project is located in a seismically active zone where the Indian and Eurasian plates meet. This makes the region highly vulnerable to earthquakes, landslides, and flash floods.

• The Three Gorges Dam in China displaced over 1.3 million people due to similar ecological disruptions, and the Brahmaputra project could cause large-scale displacement in India’s northeastern states as well.

• Water Bomb: There are concerns that China could use the dam as a geopolitical tool, turning it into a "water bomb" that can flood downstream areas in India, potentially weaponizing water flow to exert pressure, especially after India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the 2016 Pahalgam terror attack.

2. Hydrological and Environmental Impact

• The Brahmaputra River is a lifeline for agriculture, livelihoods, and biodiversity in India, particularly in states like Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Any sudden water release or diversion by China could devastate ecosystems and agricultural activities in these tribal regions.

• Tribal Vulnerability: The Siang belt, home to the Adi tribe, could face disruptions to its water supply and ecological stability, threatening the region's indigenous cultures and livelihoods.

3. Loss of Traditional Knowledge

• Traditional flood management systems used by indigenous communities in the northeastern states could be undermined by artificial flow regulation. This will make these communities more vulnerable to climate extremes and disrupt centuries-old practices.

4. Legal and Diplomatic Gaps

• Unilateral Actions: China’s actions are concerning as it is not a signatory to any international water-sharing treaty with India. As the upstream riparian country, China is disregarding India's riparian rights and unilaterally altering the river’s flow.

• Diplomatic Challenges: With China refusing to share hydrological data and not cooperating on water-sharing, India faces major diplomatic hurdles in assessing the impacts of these dams on the downstream flow.

5. Threat to Regional Water and Food Security

• The dam could significantly impact irrigation, flood regulation, and hydropower generation in India’s northeastern states, thereby threatening food security, water security, and energy security in the region.

India’s Response to China’s Dams on the Brahmaputra

1. Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

• India is planning its own hydropower project in Arunachal Pradesh, known as the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, with a capacity of 11.2 GW. This is seen as a strategic response to China’s upstream dams, helping to regulate floods caused by the flow variations from Chinese dams.

2. Monitoring and River Contribution

• Despite the Brahmaputra Basin being 34% located in India, the country contributes over 80% of the river's flow, thanks to the heavy rainfall (2,371 mm) and snowmelt in the region, compared to Tibet’s 300 mm.

• Arunachal Pradesh and Assam contribute about 30% of the water resources and 41% of the hydropower potential. Arunachal Pradesh plays a vital role in the flow and power generation of the Brahmaputra.

3. Proposed River Linking Projects

• Manas-Sankosh-Teesta-Ganga Link: This ambitious project aims to connect the Manas River (a Brahmaputra tributary) to the Ganga via Sankosh and Teesta rivers.

• Jogighopa-Teesta-Farakka Link: This proposal involves linking the Brahmaputra at Jogighopa Barrage to the Ganga at Farakka, further improving water management in the region.

4. Diplomatic Dialogue and Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs)

• India has raised concerns with China regarding the impact of Chinese infrastructure on downstream water flows. Bilateral talks have been held to address these issues, with water-sharing and border disengagement being key topics of discussion.

• Confidence-building measures (CBMs) like the resumption of tourist visas and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after five years aim to ease tensions and facilitate cooperation between the two countries.

Measures India Can Take to Address Risks from China’s Dams

1. Accelerate Strategic Water Infrastructure Projects

• India should fast-track the Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh, which includes a 300-meter-high dam that can absorb variations in upstream water flow. Expanding storage capacity across the Brahmaputra basin will also help mitigate flooding and seasonal water stress caused by Chinese interventions.

2. Enhance Scientific and Institutional Preparedness

• A scientific assessment of the ecological and geopolitical risks posed by China’s dam-building spree is essential. Strengthening institutional capabilities for real-time data modelling and predictive analytics will help India respond effectively to potential challenges related to water weaponization.

3. Implement Interlinking and Channel Diversion Plans

• India can operationalize the National Water Development Agency (NWDA)’s interlinking plans, which would involve connecting Brahmaputra tributaries to the Ganga basin to redirect excess water to drought-prone regions. Inland channel systems could also help manage monsoon overflow and reduce flood risks.

4. Strengthen Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation

• Diplomatic Engagement: India needs to press China for detailed real-time hydrological data to assess the ongoing and potential impacts of the dams on downstream countries. This could include reactivating and renewing the Brahmaputra MoU, which expired in June 2023, to ensure continuous data sharing.

• Regional Coordination: Strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar is vital for joint disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and collective water governance across the transboundary basin.

Key Facts Related to the Brahmaputra River System

• Origin: The Brahmaputra originates from the Chemayungdung Glacier near Mansarovar Lake in Tibet (China), where it is called the Yarlung Tsangpo.

• Course: The river flows through Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang (or Dihang), and then through Assam before entering Bangladesh as the Jamuna, eventually merging with the Ganga (Padma) and the Meghna River, draining into the Bay of Bengal.

• Basin: The Brahmaputra Basin spans Tibet, Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh, and is crucial for the water resources, energy generation, and ecology of the entire region.

• Ecological Significance: The basin supports critical biodiversity zones, including Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, and is home to Majuli, the world’s largest river island.

The ongoing hydropower project on the Brahmaputra presents both challenges and opportunities for India, especially regarding water security, environmental concerns, and diplomatic negotiations with China. The Brahmaputra’s vital role in agriculture, power generation, and ecosystems makes it a crucial area for future water-sharing agreements and regional cooperation.

India recently hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, focusing on enhancing maritime connectivity and sustainable development across the Bay of Bengal region. This event underscores India's growing leadership in the maritime sector, aligns with the Sagarmala initiative aimed at port-led growth, and strengthens its position in the Indo-Pacific.

Theme of the 2025 BIMSTEC Ports Conclave:

"Navigating the Future: Blue Economy, Innovation and Sustainable Partnerships"

This theme highlights the importance of promoting a blue economy that is sustainable and leverages innovation to strengthen economic and technical cooperation among BIMSTEC countries. It sets the stage for achieving a more interconnected and eco-conscious maritime future.

Key Outcomes of the 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave:

1. Push to Implement AMTC (BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation)

• Ratification Urged: The member countries were urged to ratify and implement the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which was signed during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in 2025 (Bangkok).

• Goals of AMTC:

  • Enhance port-led growth across BIMSTEC nations.

  • Promote maritime trade and tourism in the region.

  • Focus on skill development within the maritime sector.

The AMTC agreement is a key step toward fostering smoother cooperation among the member countries in maritime transport and trade, with an emphasis on connectivity and economic integration.

2. Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP)

• Strategic Corridor: The KMTTP was highlighted as a key project that links India’s Northeast with the Bay of Bengal, a vital route for India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies.

• Project Components:

  • Waterway: A river transport route on Myanmar’s Kaladan River (from Sittwe to Paletwa).

  • Road: A road connecting Paletwa to Zorinpui at the India-Myanmar border in Mizoram.

• Importance: The project helps bypass the Siliguri Corridor (also known as the "Chicken's Neck"), reducing transport costs and time for goods moving between India’s eastern ports and the Northeast, improving overall regional connectivity.

3. BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre (Mumbai)

• A new Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre will be established under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT).

• Key Focus Areas:

  • Policy harmonisation to ensure consistent regulations across the BIMSTEC region.

  • Green transition in maritime operations to reduce environmental impact.

  • Digital innovation in the maritime sector to improve efficiency and sustainability.

This initiative will position BIMSTEC as a forward-thinking region in terms of sustainable maritime practices, embracing green technologies and policies for future growth.

4. Emphasis on Cruise Tourism Potential

• The Conclave emphasized the development of eco-sensitive cruise routes and promoted the idea of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for the development of cruise terminals.

• The goal is to position the Bay of Bengal as a premier sustainable tourism corridor, boosting eco-friendly tourism and creating new avenues for economic growth through cruise tourism.

By highlighting sustainability in cruise tourism, the region aims to attract global attention as a premier travel destination while protecting the environment.

What is BIMSTEC?

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional cooperation organization that brings together countries in the Bay of Bengal region. It was established on 6th June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration.

Purpose:

The primary aim of BIMSTEC is to foster economic and technical cooperation among the Bay of Bengal countries.

Evolution:

• Originally: BIMSTEC began as BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand Economic Cooperation).

• Expansion: In 1997, Myanmar joined the group, making it BIMSTEC.

• Further Expansion: In 2004, Nepal and Bhutan were included.

• BIMSTEC Secretariat: Established in Dhaka, Bangladesh, at the 3rd BIMSTEC Summit in 2014.

Sectors of Cooperation:

Initially, BIMSTEC cooperated in six sectors:

1. Trade

2. Technology

3. Energy

4. Transport

5. Tourism

6. Fisheries

Since then, BIMSTEC has expanded its scope to include:

• Agriculture

• Public health

• Counter-terrorism

• Environment

• Climate change

In 2021, the sectors were reorganized, with each member state now leading specific areas. India, for example, leads the Security pillar of BIMSTEC, which focuses on counter-terrorism, transnational crime, disaster management, and energy cooperation.

Significance of BIMSTEC Ports Conclave for India

• Strengthening Maritime Cooperation: The 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave bolsters India’s leadership in Bay of Bengal maritime cooperation, aligning with India’s Sagarmala project for port-led growth and enhancing connectivity.

• Indo-Pacific Role: This conclave also enhances India’s role in the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring stronger ties with neighboring countries like Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, fostering both economic and strategic partnerships.

• Economic Opportunities: The focus on maritime trade, tourism, and sustainable development opens new opportunities for India to play a crucial role in regional economic growth.

Conclusion

The 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam represents a significant step towards strengthening maritime connectivity, economic cooperation, and sustainable development across the Bay of Bengal region. It highlights India's commitment to fostering regional cooperation, enhancing its maritime infrastructure, and playing a leading role in the Indo-Pacific. With initiatives like the Kaladan Corridor and the Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre, BIMSTEC is paving the way for more integrated and green maritime trade across the region, benefiting both India and its partners.

The ongoing crisis in Manipur, which has now lasted for over two years, has resulted in over 250 deaths and widespread displacement, yet it has not received the same level of national priority as other security issues.

Background of the Conflict

Ethnic Tensions: The violence in Manipur escalated in May 2023 due to ethnic tensions between the Meitei and tribal communities, particularly the Kuki-Zo groups. The immediate trigger was a Manipur High Court directive to consider granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community, which was opposed by the tribal groups. The demand for Meitei ST status was seen as an attempt to grant more political and economic advantages to the Meiteis, further marginalizing the already marginalized tribal communities.

Manipur: Geopolitical Context

• Location: Located in Northeastern India, Manipur borders Nagaland (204 km) in the north, Mizoram (95 km) in the south, Assam (204.1 km) in the west, and has an international boundary with Myanmar (352 km) in the east.

• Historical Significance: Manipur has a rich cultural history, being a center of Krishna consciousness and embracing Vaishnavism since the 15th century. The state is known for its classical Manipuri dance and its role as the gateway to Southeast Asia, making it a key region for India’s Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen trade and diplomatic ties with Southeast Asia.

Key Drivers of the Conflict

1. Demographic and Political Imbalance:

   • Imphal Valley: This area, comprising only 10% of the state’s landmass, is dominated by the Meitei community, who make up over 64% of the population.

   • Tribal Areas: The remaining 90% of the state is home to various tribal groups such as the Kuki and Naga communities, who feel politically and economically sidelined.

2. Immediate Trigger (April 2023):

   • The Manipur High Court directed the state government to consider granting ST status to the Meitei community, which led to widespread protests from the tribal groups, fearing increased marginalization.

Key Concerns and Impact of the Crisis

1. Humanitarian Crisis:

   • Over 250 deaths and thousands displaced, with communities forced into relief camps where they lack access to basic healthcare, education, and daily necessities.

   • The buffer zone policy, meant to separate the Meitei and tribal communities, has only exacerbated the violence, making it a flashpoint for further clashes.

2. Political Instability:

   • The imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur following the resignation of the Chief Minister has led to political paralysis and confusion.

   • Lack of a clear roadmap for reconciliation between the Meitei and tribal groups.

3. Ethnic Tensions and Security Concerns:

   • The Meitei vs. Kuki-Zo divisions are deep-rooted, aggravated by political narratives.

   • Cross-border security concerns, particularly the involvement of Kuki militants from Myanmar, and the mobilization of valley-based insurgent groups (VBIGs).

4. Economic Impact:

   • Internet shutdowns have restricted communication and documentation of the crisis.

   • Rising inflation, food scarcity, and economic disruptions have made survival increasingly difficult for the displaced communities.

   • Decline in tourism and disruption of small industries, further affecting the state’s economic health.

5. Challenges to India’s Act East Policy:

   • The unrest threatens the Act East Policy, which is central to improving India’s ties with Southeast Asia, particularly in terms of trade, connectivity, and strategic alliances.

The Way Forward

1. Political Leadership and Governance Reforms:

   • Engagement with Stakeholders: The Union government must engage with all stakeholders, including tribal groups, Meiteis, and local leaders, to ensure a neutral and effective administration.

   • Roadmap for Peace: The Manipur People’s Convention has called for a time-bound roadmap to restore peace and ensure safe movement for all residents.

2. Security and Law Enforcement:

   • The buffer zone policy should be reassessed to prevent further violence.

   • Measures to curb illegal weapons circulation are crucial in preventing armed conflicts and escalation.

   • Security forces must focus on de-escalation rather than militarizing the region.

3. Inclusive Dialogue:

   • Engage all stakeholders: Dialogue should involve all communities (Meitei, Kuki, Naga, and others) to understand grievances and work toward a shared vision of peace.

   • The Mizoram Accord of 1986, which resolved the Mizo conflict, offers a blueprint for successful engagement and peace-building.

4. Humanitarian Relief and Economic Recovery:

   • Expand immediate relief efforts to support displaced individuals and affected communities.

   • Economic rehabilitation programs should be implemented to restore livelihoods and rebuild the infrastructure destroyed during the conflict.

5. Evaluation of Criteria for Declaring a Community as SC/ST:

   • A reassessment of the criteria for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) status should be conducted based on factors such as:

     • Primitive traits.

     • Distinct culture.

     • Geographical isolation.

     • Backwardness.

Conclusion

The ongoing Manipur crisis is a humanitarian disaster with deep political, ethnic, and economic ramifications. While the central government has taken steps such as imposing President’s Rule, the long-term solution requires inclusive dialogue, political reforms, and a humanitarian approach that prioritizes the needs of all communities. The crisis also has broader implications for India’s Act East Policy and regional security. Rebuilding trust, fostering reconciliation, and addressing the underlying causes of ethnic tensions are crucial to achieving lasting peace and stability in the state.

• Scientific Name: Moschus chrysogaster

• Family: Although commonly called a "deer," the Alpine musk deer belongs to a family more closely related to Bovidae, which includes antelopes, bovines, sheep, and goats.

• Behavior: This species is solitary and primarily crepuscular, meaning it is most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.

• Distinctive Features: The male Alpine musk deer is named after its musk sac, which is externally visible between its testes. It also has fangs that grow during the mating season, which are used for sparring with other males.

Habitat and Diet

• Habitat: The Alpine musk deer is native to mountainous regions at elevations of 3,000–5,000 meters. It inhabits coniferous and deciduous forests, and is found across parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.

• Diet: A ruminant herbivore, its diet primarily includes forbs, grasses, moss, lichens, and the twigs, leaves, and shoots of shrubs.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Endangered

• CITES: Listed under Appendix I (species threatened with extinction and prohibited from international trade).

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I, providing the highest degree of protection.

Threats to Alpine Musk Deer

The Alpine musk deer faces significant threats primarily due to poaching. The male deer’s musk is highly valued for its use in cosmetic products, making them a prime target for illegal hunting. Habitat loss and climate change also pose additional risks to their survival.

Antelope vs Deer: Differences

India is at a pivotal moment in its mobility transformation. While the country’s growing road infrastructure and urbanization offer numerous opportunities, they also present significant challenges, particularly in the realm of road safety.

India's Road Network

• Second Largest Road Network: India boasts the second-largest road network globally, with National Highways (NH) spanning 146,195 km. These roads form the backbone of the country’s mobility system.

• National Highway Network Expansion:

  • The length of National Highways grew by 60% from 91,287 km in 2014 to 146,195 km currently.

  • High-Speed Corridors (HSCs) grew significantly, from just 93 km in 2014 to 2,474 km today.

  • 4-lane and above National Highways more than doubled from 18,278 km in 2014 to 45,947 km today, showcasing enhanced connectivity.

Need for Road Safety in India

1. Death Toll and Road Safety Statistics:

   • 1.68 lakh deaths were recorded due to road accidents in 2022, equating to approximately 12.2 fatalities per 1 lakh population.

   • In contrast, road traffic death rates in Japan and the UK are significantly lower at 2.57 and 2.61 fatalities per 1 lakh population, respectively.

2. Economic Loss:

   • India faces a 3% loss in GDP annually due to road accidents, reflecting the strain on healthcare systems, insurance sectors, and national productivity.

3. Challenges of Urbanization:

   • By 2047, nearly 50% of India’s population will reside in cities, accompanied by a sharp rise in vehicle ownership. This urbanization trend increases risks for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, the elderly, and public transport commuters.

4. People-Centric Approach:

   • As cities expand, interventions must prioritize safe mobility, ensuring roads are accessible and safe for all users, particularly the most vulnerable.

Key Efforts for Road Safety in India

1. Road Safety as a Fundamental Right

• The right to safe road travel is integral to the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This reaffirms the commitment to ensuring safer roads for all citizens.

2. Safe System Approach

• The Safe System Approach acknowledges that humans are prone to errors, but these mistakes should not result in fatalities or serious injuries. The approach focuses on pedestrian safety and promotes a road design that minimizes the impact of human error.

3. Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme)

• This program provides safety ratings for passenger cars, helping consumers make informed decisions about the safety of their vehicles.

4. Vehicle Scrapping Policy

• The Vehicle Scrapping Policy encourages the removal of unsafe vehicles from the roads. As of now, 44 Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities are operational across 15 states.

5. Electronic Enforcement Mechanisms

• Speed cameras, CCTV surveillance, and automated traffic enforcement systems have been deployed to monitor and ensure compliance with road safety regulations.

6. Emergency Care Initiatives

• The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 introduced a cashless treatment scheme for accident victims during the golden hour, ensuring timely medical intervention.

7. Targeted Interventions by MoRTH:

• Rectification of over 5,000 black spots on highways.

• Mandatory road safety audits to identify and rectify risk areas.

• Strengthened vehicle safety norms, such as airbags and anti-lock braking systems.

• Deployment of electronic enforcement mechanisms like speed cameras and CCTV surveillance.

• Establishment of district-wide driving training and vehicle fitness centers to reduce accidents caused by unskilled driving.

Global Efforts to Address Road Safety

1. Brasilia Declaration (2015):

   • Defined urgent measures needed to achieve Target 3.6 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: to halve road traffic deaths by the end of the decade.

2. United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030):

   • This global initiative aims to reduce road crash fatalities by 50% by 2030, aligned with the Stockholm Declaration (2020).

3. World Bank Report (2020):

   • The report estimates that an additional $109 billion is required over the next decade to achieve a 50% reduction in road crash fatalities globally.

Key Committees and Policy Frameworks in India

1. Sundar Committee on Road Safety and Traffic Management (2005):

   • Recommended the creation of a National Road Safety Policy, which was approved in 2010.

   • Proposed the establishment of a National Road Safety Board to oversee safety regulations and enforcement.

2. National Road Safety Council (NRSC):

   • Advisory body under MoRTH that provides recommendations on policy measures, enforcement strategies, and infrastructure improvements.

3. Working Group on Road Safety Education:

   • Focuses on driver training, public awareness campaigns, and school-level road safety education.

   • Advocates for stronger enforcement of traffic laws and integration of road safety into school curricula.

4. Supreme Court’s Committee on Road Safety:

   • Focuses on creating District Road Safety Committees under The Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.

   • Emphasizes the 4Es: Engineering, Education, Enforcement, and Emergency.

Key Recommendations for Road Safety Improvement

1. Mandatory Road Safety Audits:

   • Conduct road safety audits for both highways and urban roads to identify and rectify dangerous areas.

2. Stricter Vehicle Safety Norms:

   • Implement stricter vehicle safety regulations, including requirements for airbags and anti-lock braking systems (ABS).

3. Enhanced Electronic Enforcement:

   • Expand the use of speed cameras, CCTV surveillance, and automated traffic systems to improve law enforcement and compliance.

4. Dedicated Highway Police:

   • Establish dedicated highway police to better manage traffic and respond swiftly to accidents.

5. National Road Safety Fund:

   • Establish a National Road Safety Fund to finance safety initiatives, including infrastructure upgrades and the development of safer road designs.

Conclusion

India is facing an urgent need to balance its growing road network and urbanization with robust road safety measures. With the rise in road traffic fatalities, it’s clear that a comprehensive, people-centric approach is essential. Implementing global best practices alongside local solutions, including safe system designs, vehicle safety programs, and strict law enforcement, will be pivotal in addressing the ongoing challenges of road safety. India's evolving road safety framework is critical not only for protecting lives but also for sustaining its economic growth and urban development.

The National Waterway-57 (River Kopili) has been operationalized, marking a historic step towards reviving Assam’s river-based trade and promoting sustainable logistics. This move is set to enhance connectivity and economic activity in the region.

About Kopili River

• Location & Importance: The Kopili River is a significant tributary of the Brahmaputra River on its left bank. It is crucial for the local ecology and economy, especially for regions like North Cachar Hills, Karbi Anglong, and Nagaon in Assam and Meghalaya.

• Origin: The river originates from the Saipong Reserve Forest in the Borail Range of the North Cachar Hills District at an altitude of 1525 meters.

• Length: The total length of the river is 256 km, with 78 km lying along the common border of Meghalaya and Assam, while the remaining 178 km flows within Assam.

• Significance:

  • It is the largest south bank tributary of the Brahmaputra in Assam.

  • The river covers various districts such as North Cachar Hill, Karbi Anglong, Nagaon, and Morigaon in Assam, playing a key role in supporting the local economy through agriculture, especially crops like rice, mustard, rape seed, and wheat.

Economic & Environmental Significance

The operationalization of National Waterway-57 for navigation brings significant economic opportunities by boosting river-based trade and logistics in the region. Additionally, it aims to ensure sustainable development while protecting the ecosystem of the river and surrounding areas.

The Krasheninnikov Volcano erupted on 2nd August 2025, marking the first recorded eruption of this stratovolcano. This eruption came just three days after a massive magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck the region. The volcanic eruption produced ash emissions that reached an altitude of 20,000 feet.

About Krasheninnikov Volcano

• Location: The Krasheninnikov Volcano is situated in the Eastern Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia, an area known for its intense volcanic activity along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

• Geological Features:

  • Stratovolcano: Krasheninnikov is a stratovolcano, which means it has a cone-shaped structure formed from layers of hardened lava and ash from previous eruptions.

  • Height: The volcano rises to an elevation of 1,886 meters.

  • Collapsed Caldera: The volcano sits in a collapsed caldera, a large crater formed after a catastrophic eruption. The last major eruption in this region occurred 39,600 years ago, producing 50 cubic km of dacitic pumice.

  • Eruptive Cones: The volcano consists of two eruptive cones within a 9 km-wide caldera. The southern cone features a crater that is 800 meters wide and 140 meters deep.

• Past Activity: The volcano’s last known eruption occurred 400 to 600 years ago, and the recent eruption in 2025 marks a significant reawakening.

What is a Stratovolcano?

• Structure: Stratovolcanoes are tall, steep, and cone-shaped volcanoes characterized by their layered structure. They typically consist of a mix of lava flows and pyroclastic material (volcanic ash, rock fragments, and gases), which forms the "strata" or layers.

• Eruption Characteristics: Stratovolcanoes often have explosive eruptions due to the accumulation of viscous lavas like andesite and dacite, which trap gases and build up high pressure.

  • They are commonly found at subduction zones where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another, such as along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

  • The explosive eruptions are due to the higher viscosity of the lava, which results in the build-up of gas pressure.

• Global Presence: Stratovolcanoes make up about 60% of the Earth’s individual volcanoes, and they often have a small crater at the summit, which may contain a volcanic dome or water/ice.

The Krasheninnikov Volcano's 2025 eruption is part of the dynamic volcanic activity in the Kamchatka Peninsula. As a stratovolcano, it poses risks due to its explosive eruption style. The region continues to be an important focus for geological studies and disaster management, especially in relation to the frequent tectonic disturbances and potential volcanic hazards.

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has proposed to implement market coupling in the Day Ahead Market (DAM) segment of India’s power exchanges starting from January 2026. However, industry analysts and officials have expressed concerns that the shift to market coupling may not offer substantial benefits to the power sector in India.

What is Market Coupling?

Market coupling is an economic model designed to create a single, uniform price for electricity across different trading platforms or exchanges. Under this model, electricity buy and sell bids from multiple exchanges are aggregated and matched to discover a single market clearing price (MCP). This means that instead of each exchange having its own separate price for electricity, a unified price will be applied across all exchanges.

Current Power Exchange Setup in India

India has three primary power exchanges:

1. Indian Energy Exchange (IEX)

2. Power Exchange India Limited (PXIL)

3. Hindustan Power Exchange Limited (HPX)

These are voluntary markets, where each exchange individually collects buy and sell bids and determines its own market clearing price (MCP). As a result, while these exchanges generally have similar prices, slight differences often exist.

How Market Coupling Would Work

With market coupling, buy and sell bids from all power exchanges in the country will be aggregated. The system will then match these bids to discover a single uniform price for electricity. This price will apply to all transactions, regardless of the platform or exchange through which the electricity is traded.

In this model, exchanges would no longer be platforms for setting their own market clearing prices. Instead, they would act as venues for receiving bids and facilitating the dispatch of power to the buyers.

Potential Advantages of Market Coupling

• Improved Efficiency: Market coupling can enhance the efficiency of the electricity market by integrating multiple markets, thus optimizing electricity distribution across various regions.

• Higher Utilization and Reduced Energy Loss: By integrating markets, it is possible to ensure that energy is distributed more effectively, leading to better utilization of resources and potentially reducing energy loss.

• Enhanced Market Liquidity: A uniform price can make it easier for participants to trade electricity across borders and regions, leading to higher liquidity in the market.

• Increased Trading Volumes: With more participants and a unified pricing mechanism, the overall trading volumes in the power market could increase, potentially making the market more robust.

Challenges and Concerns

While market coupling has potential benefits, analysts and industry stakeholders have raised several concerns regarding its implementation in India:

• Limited Impact on the Indian Market: Given the relatively small price differences across exchanges (often just a few paisa), the actual economic benefit of a unified price may not be significant.

• Operational Complexities: Aggregating bids from multiple exchanges and creating a unified price structure could introduce operational complexities, particularly in terms of system integration and market governance.

• Market Fragmentation: The current model allows power exchanges to differentiate themselves by setting unique market clearing prices. With market coupling, this flexibility could be reduced, and exchanges may lose the ability to tailor prices to their local markets.

Way Forward

As India moves towards greater integration of its electricity markets, market coupling could be a step towards improving the overall functioning of the power sector. However, it will require careful planning, stakeholder consultation, and a phased approach to ensure it delivers the intended benefits without creating new challenges.