Panel Recommends Framework for Direct Recruitment in CBI

A parliamentary committee has recommended that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) adopt an independent direct recruitment framework. Currently, a significant number of CBI posts are filled through deputations from various organizations. The proposed framework suggests using the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) or the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for direct recruitment, with lateral entry for specialists in areas like cybercrime and financial fraud. This move aims to enhance the CBI’s autonomy and effectiveness by reducing reliance on external deputations.

The CBI faces challenges such as manpower shortages and limited jurisdiction due to state government consent requirements. Establishing a permanent cadre with structured career progression is also recommended to stabilize the agency.

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) in India

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act in India allows abortions under specific conditions, with recent amendments extending the gestation limit to 24 weeks under certain circumstances. Ethical debates surrounding late-term abortions continue, with discussions on fetal viability and the right to life. The Act emphasizes bodily autonomy and reproductive rights, while also addressing concerns about misuse and societal impacts.

Arguments in favor of MTP include protecting women’s health and preventing unsafe abortions, while opponents argue for the fetus’s right to life and potential psychological impacts on women.

10th Anniversary of Sagarmala Programme

The Sagarmala Programme, launched in 2015, has transformed India’s maritime sector by promoting port-led development and enhancing coastal connectivity. The program aims to streamline logistics, reduce costs, and boost international trade competitiveness. Key achievements include a 118% growth in coastal shipping and a 700% increase in inland waterway cargo. However, challenges persist, such as securing investments and addressing environmental concerns.

The Sagarmala Programme is part of India’s broader vision for maritime growth, aligning with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. It focuses on sustainable development, green ports, and indigenous shipbuilding.

Growth of India’s E-retail Market

India’s e-retail market is projected to triple by 2030, reaching a gross merchandise value of $170-$190 billion. This growth is driven by an expanding shopper base, innovative business models, and favorable demographics. The market is currently valued at $60 billion, with a growth rate of 10-12%. Key drivers include rising income levels, changing consumer mindsets, and increased brand consciousness.

However, challenges such as economic slowdowns and sluggish revenue growth for consumer brands have impacted the sector. Retailers are adapting by integrating e-commerce with traditional methods and experimenting with new revenue models.

Battling Money Laundering & Terrorist Financing

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has emphasized the need for balanced regulations to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Advanced technologies like AI and blockchain are being leveraged to enhance transaction monitoring. Public-private collaborations are crucial for safeguarding the financial system.

India’s legal framework includes the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Recent measures have strengthened inter-agency coordination and regulation of digital financial transactions.

Free Movement Regime between India and Myanmar

The Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar allows tribes along the border to travel without visas. However, the regime faces challenges due to security concerns, drug trafficking, and refugee influxes. The Indian government has announced plans to scrap the FMR, citing threats to internal security.

India and Myanmar share historical and cultural ties, with significant economic cooperation. However, geopolitical instability in Myanmar poses challenges for bilateral relations.

Coral Bleaching Devastates Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef

A severe coral bleaching event is affecting Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef, part of a broader global crisis impacting over 80 countries. Rising sea temperatures and pollution exacerbate this issue. Coral reefs are crucial for marine biodiversity, coastal protection, and the Blue Economy.

Global efforts to address coral bleaching include climate action, policy enforcement, and innovation in climate-resilient coral species.

5 Years of National Technical Textiles Mission

The National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) was launched in 2020 to boost India’s technical textiles sector. It focuses on research, innovation, market development, and skill training. Despite challenges like low domestic awareness and high import dependence, the mission has contributed to India’s growing textile industry.

India is the sixth-largest exporter of textiles globally, with the sector expected to grow to $350 billion by 2030.

Digital Excellence for Growth and Enterprise (Dx-EDGE)

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in collaboration with NITI Aayog and AICTE, has launched Dx-EDGE to enhance digital adoption among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative supports India’s vision for a digitally empowered economy by bridging the digital divide in MSME ecosystems.

Dx-EDGE aims to make MSMEs future-ready and competitive through digital transformation.

District Mineral Foundation (DMF)

The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) has been reworked in Odisha to expand coverage and improve fund utilization. DMFs are established in mining-affected districts to benefit local communities. The revised norms increase the affected area radius and implement saturation mode development near mines.

DMFs are crucial for addressing the socio-economic impacts of mining activities.

Wage Hike of MGNREGS

The Union government has increased wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) for FY 2025-26. Wage hikes range from 2-7% across different states, with Haryana recording the highest increase. MGNREGS aims to provide guaranteed wage employment to rural households, focusing on unskilled manual work.

The scheme has seen significant budget allocations and digital reforms, enhancing its efficiency and reach.

India becomes World’s 2nd-largest Exporter of Tea in 2024

India has become the second-largest tea exporter globally, surpassing Sri Lanka. Tea exports reached 255 million kg in 2024, with a 15% increase in export value. Key markets include West Asia, particularly Iraq. Indian teas, such as Assam and Darjeeling, are renowned for their quality.

The Tea Board of India plays a crucial role in regulating and promoting the Indian tea industry.

Gaia Mission

The European Space Agency’s (ESA) Gaia mission, launched in 2013, has been decommissioned. Gaia created a precise 3D map of the Milky Way galaxy, significantly advancing astrometry. The mission was positioned at the Lagrange point 2, providing unprecedented data on celestial bodies.

Gaia’s legacy includes enhancing our understanding of the galaxy’s structure and evolution.

Green Grabbing

The phenomenon of “green grabbing” has emerged as India pursues renewable energy goals. Green grabbing involves the coercive acquisition of land under the guise of environmental conservation or sustainable development. This has led to conflicts over fertile lands, affecting indigenous communities.

Efforts to balance environmental goals with social justice are necessary to address these issues.

Nag Missile System (NAMIS)

The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract for the procurement of the Nag Missile System (NAMIS), a third-generation anti-tank guided missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). NAMIS is designed to neutralize heavily armored enemy tanks and enhance India’s self-reliant defense capabilities.

This procurement aligns with India’s focus on indigenous defense production.

Exercise Prachand Prahar

The Indian Armed Forces conducted Exercise Prachand Prahar, a tri-service integrated exercise in Arunachal Pradesh. The exercise showcased advanced surveillance and strike capabilities, demonstrating seamless integration of military assets.

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