27 February 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
1. India’s ‘Look East’ Policy Has Transformed Into ‘Act East’
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2106431 )
| Context |
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Investment Potential in Power Generation
- Arunachal Pradesh has the capacity to generate 50,000 MW of power.
- Producing one megawatt requires an investment of ₹10 crore, creating an investment potential of ₹5 lakh crore.
- The central government has been urged to utilize this opportunity for economic growth while preserving cultural heritage.
India’s Strength and Cultural Unity
- India has grown into a strong nation where no external force can pose a threat.
- The Vice-President stressed the importance of nationalism and dedication to the country.
- He emphasized India’s cultural unity, stating that festivals across different regions reflect the country’s shared traditions.
Recognition of Efforts for Development
- The leadership at the central level has played a key role in the continuous progress of Arunachal Pradesh.
- The vision of building the Frontier Highway was acknowledged as a major step toward further connectivity and growth.
| Nyokum Yullo Celebration in Arunachal Pradesh |
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Differences Between Look East Policy and Act East Policy
| Aspect | Look East Policy (LEP) | Act East Policy (AEP) |
| Introduced By | Launched by P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1991 | Introduced by Narendra Modi in 2014 |
| Objective | Focused on economic and trade ties with Southeast Asian nations | Expanded focus to strategic, security, cultural, and people-to-people ties |
| Approach | Primarily diplomatic and trade-oriented | Emphasizes proactive engagement and implementation of projects |
| Geographical Scope | Mainly engaged with ASEAN countries | Extended engagement to Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Pacific nations |
| Strategic Focus | Less emphasis on defense and security cooperation | Strengthened defense partnerships, maritime security, and infrastructure projects |
| Infrastructure Development | Limited involvement in connectivity projects | Focuses on Northeast India’s connectivity with ASEAN through highways, rail, and air links |
| Implementation | Lacked concrete action and execution | More practical, result-oriented, and strategic initiatives |
| Key Projects | Initial trade agreements and summits | Kaladan Multimodal Project, India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, North-East connectivity projects |
| Defense Collaboration | Minimal defense cooperation | Increased military exercises and defense partnerships with ASEAN and QUAD members |
| Economic Impact | Laid the foundation for economic ties | Strengthened India’s trade, investment, and industrial collaboration with the region |
| Practice Question: Discuss the evolution of India’s engagement with Southeast Asia from the Look East Policy to the Act East Policy. How has this transformation impacted India’s strategic and economic relations with the region? (250 Words /15 marks) |
2. Animal Welfare Board of India to Honour Champions of Animal Protection
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2106411 )
| Topic: GS2 – Governance |
| Context |
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Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI):
- Established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
- Functions under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
- Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana.
- Primary Role: Advises the government on animal welfare laws and promotes animal protection measures.
- Regulates animal experimentation, circuses, and entertainment industries involving animals.
- Encourages the establishment of animal shelters, gaushalas, and rescue centers.
- Provides financial assistance to recognized animal welfare organizations.
- Conducts awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership and cruelty prevention.
- Oversees the implementation of animal birth control programs for stray animals.
