Deregulation Commission & State’s Role in Governance

The Prime Minister announced the establishment of a Deregulation Commission to promote ease of doing business and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. Deregulation aims to eliminate outdated compliances, streamline licensing, and boost private sector efficiency. Key sectors impacted include banking, telecom, manufacturing, and energy. The commission will work alongside RBI, SEBI, and TRAI to eliminate unnecessary regulations and enhance India’s global economic competitiveness. Reducing bureaucratic red tape, boosting FDI, and strengthening federalism are among the key objectives.

Three Years of India and UAE-CEPA

The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022, has significantly strengthened bilateral trade. The agreement aims to increase trade in goods to $100 billion and services to $15 billion within five years. Key sectors benefiting include pharmaceuticals, investment, and digital trade. UAE remains India’s third-largest trading partner and a crucial Gulf ally. Challenges such as trade imbalances, labor rights concerns, and geopolitical instability persist, requiring strategic diplomatic engagement.

International Mother Language Day

Observed annually on February 21, International Mother Language Day highlights the need to preserve linguistic diversity. India, home to over 19,500 languages and dialects, faces a linguistic crisis, with 42 languages categorized as critically endangered by UNESCO. Language loss impacts cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge. Government initiatives like the Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages (SPPEL) and AI4Bharat aim to safeguard linguistic diversity.

Internet Shutdowns in India

India recorded 84 internet shutdowns in 2024, accounting for 28% of global disruptions. Shutdowns, primarily imposed in Manipur, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir, were linked to protests and communal violence. The Supreme Court’s Anuradha Bhasin judgment (2020) reaffirmed internet access as a fundamental right. While shutdowns are justified for national security, concerns over transparency, economic impact, and human rights persist. Legal frameworks such as the Indian Telegraph Act and Section 144 CrPC govern internet suspensions.

India’s Rising LNG Imports

India’s LNG imports from the U.S. surged 71% in 2024, reflecting its shift towards cleaner energy. The country is the world’s third-largest energy consumer and aims to increase natural gas to 15% of its energy mix by 2030. Key drivers include urbanization, industrial expansion, and energy diversification. Challenges include infrastructure deficiencies, limited pipeline networks, and storage constraints. Government initiatives like the National Gas Grid and city gas distribution expansion aim to boost LNG accessibility.

Using Quantum Property of Nanocrystals

Scientists have proposed using nanocrystals to test whether gravity operates under quantum mechanics. Nanocrystals exhibit quantum properties like superposition and entanglement, making them ideal for advanced research. Quantum technology has transformative applications in computing, cryptography, and sensing. India’s National Quantum Mission and collaborations with global research institutions aim to position the country as a leader in quantum advancements.

Supreme Court Emphasized Segregation of Waste at Source

The Supreme Court ruled that waste segregation at source is critical for environmental sustainability. Segregation reduces landfill burdens, enhances recycling, and minimizes pollution. India’s waste management regulations include the Solid Waste Management Rules (2016), Swachh Bharat Mission, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers. Successful waste management models in Indore, Pune, and Ambikapur serve as examples for nationwide implementation.

The Tea Horse Road

An ancient trade route connecting China, Tibet, and India, the Tea Horse Road facilitated cultural and economic exchanges. It played a vital role in India-China trade via Tibet, transporting tea, textiles, and Buddhist influences.

Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement

A farmer-led movement in 1907 against British agrarian policies, initiated by Ajit Singh. The protests influenced later nationalist movements, including Bhagat Singh’s revolutionary activities.

Advocate-on-Record

A Supreme Court-designated advocate authorized to represent clients directly in the apex court. The Supreme Court recently addressed concerns over non-AORs appearing in court on behalf of designated advocates.

National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM)

A statutory body regulating Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medicine. It oversees quality standards, medical research, and accreditation of institutions to promote traditional healthcare systems.