Yojana Summary: December, 2024.

1. Reaping India’s Demographic Dividend

India’s Demographic Dividend

• India is at a demographic inflexion point, with a working-age population (15-64 years) of 63% in 2021, expected to remain stable for the next 15 years.
• India aims to be a $30 trillion economy by 2047, with an annual per capita income of $18,000.
• The challenge is to increase real per capita income sixfold in 23 years, a higher rate than the 4.4% annual growth over the last three decades.

Job Creation and Measurement

• The Reserve Bank of India estimates that over 80 million employment opportunities were created between 2017-18 and 2021-22.
• The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data indicates a consistent reduction in the unemployment rate over the past five years.
• The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 and above increased from 57.9% in 2022-23 to 60.1% in 2023-24.
• The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for individuals aged 15 and above also increased from 56.0% in 2022-23 to 58.2% in 2023-24.

Structural Transformation and Productivity

• India’s industrialization started slowly, resulting in a slow absorption of workers from traditional vocations.
• Despite an acceleration in GDP growth post-1980s, the economic transition did not keep pace with the demographic transition.
• The last decade has seen an improving employment-population ratio, but further improvement is possible and can drive growth.
• Real wages are linked to labor productivity, which typically reflects improved human capital and technology.
• India must aim for both rising earnings and more employment in the coming years.

Challenges and Policy Responses

• The Economic Survey 2023-24 estimates the need for nearly 8 million non-farm sector employment opportunities annually until 2030.
• Female workforce participation increased from 24.5% in 2019 to 37.0% in 2023, but remains largely in the agricultural sector.
• The unemployment rate for new entrants to the labor market has reduced from 17.8% in 2017-18 to 10.0% in 2022-23.
• The Union Budget includes employment incentives and skilling programs, with a wage subsidy for new entrants.
• Initiatives for women include:
  • Working women hostels.
  • Creches.
  • Skill development programs.
  • Market access for women-led SHGs/enterprises.
• Indian firms tend to be smaller, grow more slowly, and are less productive than firms in other countries, limiting their demand for workers.
• Over 90% of employment remains informal, calling for policies to improve the quality of employment.

Way Forward

• Active steps are needed to accelerate the creation of non-farm employment, potentially by incentivizing exports.
• States need to play an important role in fostering employment generation, considering their differences in demographic transitions.
• Policymaking should aim for an integrated labor market, keeping in mind internal migration across states.
• Both central and state governments are working towards focused strategies to convert demographic potential into economic reality.

2. Vision and Roadmap for Science & Technology

Achievements in Science and Technology

• India has made remarkable progress in science and technology, driven by strong commitment and strategic initiatives.
• India’s global standing in scientific research improved from 7th in 2010 to 3rd currently.
• Annual scientific publications have surpassed the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan in the past five years.
• India ranks 3rd globally in the number of PhDs awarded in Science and Engineering, reflecting expanding research and development capacity.
• India’s Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking jumped from 81st in 2014 to 39th in 2024, showcasing growing innovation capacity.
• Patent filings doubled between 2018 and 2023, with India now ranking 6th globally.
• India has the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with startups increasing from 450 in 2016 to 140,000 in 2024.

Challenges and Future Directions

• R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP remains modest at 0.64%, below the global average.
• The number of full-time equivalent R&D professionals per million population is low, necessitating greater investment in human capital.
• Low private sector investment in R&D accounts for only 37% of total expenditure, compared to higher percentages in major economies.
• A strategic roadmap is needed to address societal needs and focus on disruptive technologies.
• Key focus areas include sustainability, resource optimization, resilience, and emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and quantum cryptography.

Strategic Priorities and Focus Areas

• Sustainability and Fragility:
  • Develop transformative technologies for a low-carbon economy.
  • Counter emerging geopolitical threats.
• Resource Constraints:
  • Focus on precision agriculture, advanced materials, and deep-sea mining to ensure resource sustainability.
• Longevity and Viability of Life:
  • Advance healthcare and medical technologies to address challenges of an aging society and rapid urbanization.

Mission-Mode Initiatives and Programs

• National Quantum Mission.
• National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems.
• India Semiconductor Mission.
• BioE3 policy to foster biomanufacturing and drive India’s bioeconomy to US $300 million by 2030.
• Ambitious space mission programs, including:
  • Chandrayaan 4.
  • Bharatiya Antariksha Station.
  • Gaganyaan Mission.

Harnessing Traditional Wisdom and Modern Advancements

• India’s rich heritage includes traditional knowledge in Ayurveda, ancient architecture, and foundational principles of chemistry and materials science.
• Strengthening traditional sciences and integrating them with modern research methodologies can lead to groundbreaking discoveries.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

• ANRF will drive a multi-phased roadmap for scientific breakthroughs and cross-sectoral collaboration.
• Provides competitive grants for high-impact research.
• Aims to position India as a global leader in innovative, sustainable technological progress.
• Strategic interventions include:
  • Aligning R&D with national imperatives.
  • Promoting inclusive growth.
  • Cultivating high-impact research ecosystems.
  • Building capacity.

Private Sector Collaboration and Funding

• The government plans to establish a Rs 1 lakh crore R&D fund to encourage private sector research and innovation in sunrise domains.

Conclusion

• India is well-positioned to become a global leader in science and technology through strategic investments, collaborations, and a robust research ecosystem.
• By nurturing intellectual capital, strengthening public-private alliances, and prioritizing disruptive technologies, India can achieve strategic autonomy and catalyze socioeconomic development.
• This approach will bolster India’s geopolitical standing and ensure the sustainability of its scientific and technological infrastructure, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

3. India’s emergence as a hub of Knowledge and Technology

Role of Technology in Economic Growth

• Technology has played a crucial role in India’s economic progress, driving efficiency, innovation, and productivity across various sectors.
• India’s GDP is projected to reach $5 trillion by 2025, fueled by technological advancements and a growing digital economy.

Milestones in India’s Science and Technology Journey

• India has a long history of pursuing technological self-reliance, evident in its Green and White Revolutions, as well as advancements in atomic energy, space, and pharmaceuticals.
• Development of indigenous supercomputers and the growth of solar and wind energy sectors demonstrate India’s commitment to innovation.

Shift Towards Translational Research

• India is increasingly focusing on translational research to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, ensuring societal benefits.
• Initiatives like Digital India, Startup India, and UPI-driven digital payments underscore India’s commitment to inclusive technological innovation.

Technology as a National Priority

• The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of science and technology in addressing challenges like climate change, clean energy, and healthcare.
• Effective translation of research innovations to the market is crucial for achieving these national objectives.

Investment in Research and Development (R&D)

• India’s commitment to science and technology is reflected in its increasing R&D investment, with gross expenditure on R&D (GERD) doubling in the last decade.
• The private sector’s contribution to R&D is growing, particularly in pharmaceuticals, IT, and textiles.
• The Indian research ecosystem has witnessed a surge in output, with the number of scientific publications growing 2.5 times between 2010 and 2020.

Innovation Ecosystem

• India’s Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking improved from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024, showcasing a strong focus on innovation.
• With over 100 unicorns and initiatives like Startup India, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), and Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, India has fueled global progress through technology.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

• AIM has nurtured innovation and entrepreneurship through initiatives like:
  • Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs): Funded 10,000 schools.
  • Atal Incubation Centres (AICs): Established 72 AICs and 14 Atal Community Innovation Challenges (ACICs).

Economic Impact of Technology

• Technology has driven significant improvements across sectors:
  • Agriculture: Precision farming, AI-powered crop monitoring, and drones have enhanced productivity.
  • Healthcare: Digital interventions like telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics have transformed healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas.
  • Manufacturing: Industry 4.0 technologies, ‘Make in India’, 3D printing, and smart factories have improved efficiency.

Shift Toward Translational Research

• India’s focus on translational research has converted scientific discoveries into real-world applications.
• Programs like the National Initiative for Development and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) encourage academia-industry collaboration, leading to breakthroughs in biotechnology, space technology, and renewable energy.

Social Impact of Technology

• The Digital India mission has transformed access to public services, promoting inclusivity and transparency.
• Focus on universal digital infrastructure and services has democratized access to education, healthcare, and financial services, especially in rural areas.

Health and Family Welfare

• Technology has revolutionized healthcare with initiatives like:
  • eSanjeevani telemedicine platform: Enhanced accessibility for remote populations.
  • Development of the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, ‘Covaxin’.

Education and Empowerment

• The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes multidisciplinary learning and digital infrastructure to equip students with 21st-century skills.
• EdTech platforms have transformed access to education, empowering individuals across socioeconomic backgrounds.

Strategic Impact of Technology

• India’s focus on self-reliance in defense technology has led to achievements like indigenous missile systems, aircraft carriers, and anti-satellite technologies.
• ISRO’s advancements, from the PSLV launcher to Chandrayaan-3, demonstrate technological prowess.

Emerging Technologies

• Strategic investments in emerging technologies maintain India’s global competitive edge:
  • AI, robotics, and quantum computing under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).
  • National Quantum Mission (NQM) and National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) showcase India’s ambition in high-performance computing.

Viksit Bharat: A Vision for a Developed Nation

• India’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ aims to become a developed nation through science, technology, and innovation for economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability.
• Achieving this vision requires investment in future technologies, enabling innovation, fostering a scientific temperament, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

• India’s vision for science and technology encompasses economic growth, resilience, self-reliance, and inclusivity.
• By focusing on emerging fields like quantum computing, artificial intelligence, space exploration, and renewable energy, India is positioning itself as a global leader.

4. Roadmap for India’s Geopolitical Recalibration

Overview

• India has emerged as a prominent player on the regional and global stage since its independence in 1947.
• Its current rise is characterized by rapid economic growth, political stability, and enhanced capabilities.
• India has played a decisive role in global initiatives like the Solar Alliance and the Counter-Terrorism Convention.
• Hosting the Interpol General Assembly and the No Money for Terror (NMFT) conference reflects India’s growing global influence.

Self-Reliance and Strategic Autonomy

• India’s growth emphasizes self-reliance and strategic autonomy in its domestic, regional, and global outreach.
• This focus has enabled India to become a bright spot on the global horizon.

Economic and Technological Growth

• India has transformed from being one of the “Fragile Five” economies to one of the top 5 economies globally in a decade.
• Tremendous progress in the Global Innovation Index (GII) rankings, rising from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024.
• The Unified Payment Interface (UPI) achieved a record high with 16.58 billion transactions worth $279.4 billion USD in October 2024.
• Defence production surged to ₹1,27,265 crore, an increase of 174% from 2014-15.
• Defence exports reached an all-time high, increasing from ₹686 crore in FY 2013-14 to ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24.

India’s Global Engagements

• India has demonstrated its intent to play a decisive role regionally and globally through policy initiatives and global engagements.
• The re-election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a third term facilitated strong development-oriented reforms and policies.
• India’s influence has extended westward, with Gulf countries becoming top trade, investment, and energy partners.
• The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) has gained significant regional interest.

Regional and Global Initiatives

• Intensified engagements with Central Asian states, the Indian Ocean Region, and Africa.
• The International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) serves as an alternative for accessing Eurasia and beyond.
• India’s role in the Global South includes initiatives like the Voice of Global South Summit and supporting the African Union’s G20 membership.
• Leadership in vaccine equity during the COVID-19 pandemic earned global admiration.
• The International Solar Alliance (ISA), proposed by India, has received support from 119 countries, with 99 ratifying the framework agreement.

Maritime Power and Naval Capabilities

• India has emerged as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting its growing capabilities and proactive role in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Enhanced deterrent capabilities with the commissioning of the second Ship, Submersible, Ballistic, Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arighaat.
• Showcased maritime strength through major exercises like Milan 2024, with participation from six continents.

Geopolitical Significance

• Comprehensive growth and stable development make India a preferred partner globally, strengthening the multipolar world order.
• India’s inclusive responsibility has established it as a ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the developing world.

5. 2024: The Year of India’s Strategic Emergence

Overview

• India has made significant strides in its transformative journey, reflected in its economic development and progress in various sectors.
• The government’s focus on sanitation, water conservation, and renewable energy has yielded impressive results.

Sanitation and Water Initiatives

• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
  • Improved sanitation, contributing to a decline in infant mortality rates.
• Jal Jeevan Mission:
  • Connected millions of rural households to piped water.
  • Enhanced quality of life and empowered women.

Healthcare Reforms

• Extension of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 and above:
  • Ensures access to quality healthcare, financial security, and dignity for 6 crore beneficiaries.
• National Sickle Cell Disease Control Programme:
  • Aims to mitigate the impact of this genetic disorder.

Renewable Energy Initiatives

• Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana:
  • Promotes rooftop solar energy.
  • Reduces India’s carbon footprint.
  • Increases energy self-reliance.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• India’s commitment to the United Nations’ SDGs is reflected in efforts spearheaded by NITI Aayog.
• Noteworthy advancements in:
  • Goal 1: No Poverty.
  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
  • Goal 13: Climate Action.
• SDG India Index 2023-24:
  • Reports an overall score of 71, improving from 66 in 2020-21 and 57 in 2018.

Science and Technology Advancements

• Significant improvement in Global Innovation Index (GII) rankings, jumping from 81 to 39th.
• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) provides strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Digital Transactions and Financial Inclusion

• Surge in digital transactions via the Unified Payment Interface (UPI), crossing 16.58 billion transactions in October 2024.

Challenges and Future Outlook

• The Union Budget 2024-25 outlines a strategy for a developed, prosperous, and equitable Bharat:
  • Focuses on productivity, employment, and innovation.
• Challenges include:
  • Disparities in healthcare access, education, and economic opportunities.
• Sustained efforts, efficient resource allocation, and effective monitoring are essential to bridge gaps.
• Building on 2024’s momentum and fostering a culture of innovation is crucial as India steps into 2025.

6. India’s Mission-Mode Approach Against Sickle Cell Disease

Understanding Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)

• Sickle Cell Disease is a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells that block blood vessels and cause health complications.
• Sickle-shaped cells are rigid and sticky, hindering movement through blood vessels and leading to oxygen deprivation in tissues and organs.
• Complications include anemia, frequent infections, pain, swelling, and chronic organ damage.

Types of Sickle Cell Disease

• Normal adult hemoglobin (HbA) consists of two subunits of beta-globin and two subunits of alpha-globin.
• Sickle Cell Disease occurs when normal hemoglobin is replaced by faulty sickle hemoglobin (HbS) due to a mutation in the beta-globin chain.
• The most prevalent types of sickle cell hemoglobinopathies include HbSS, HbS beta thalassemia, and sickle cell trait.

Prevalence and Impact of SCD

• Over 40 crore people globally are carriers of trait genes for hemoglobin disorders, with over 3 lakh babies born with severe hemoglobin disorders annually.
• In India, approximately 12 lakh people are affected by SCD, particularly prevalent among the tribal population.
• SCD causes a significant social and economic burden due to severe complications, lifelong care, and impacts on quality of life.

National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM)

• The Indian government launched NSCAEM in 2023 to eliminate Sickle Cell Anemia by 2047.
• The mission aims to provide affordable, accessible, and quality care to all SCD patients and reduce its prevalence.
• It focuses on 17 states with a high prevalence of SCD, screening and managing individuals aged 0 to 40 years.

Key Interventions and Initiatives under NSCAEM

• Strategic interventions: Universal screening, early detection, awareness campaigns, premarital counseling, and holistic management of affected individuals.
• Data monitoring: Dashboard and online portal compile screened data for analysis and monitoring.
• Faster diagnosis: Point-of-care tests are used.
• Integration with existing initiatives: Programs like RBSK, PMSMA, and Anaemia Mukt Bharat are leveraged.
• State-level actions: SCD testing is ensured at primary healthcare facilities, with teleconsultation services for prompt management.
• Medication access: Basic drugs and medications are made available at public health facilities, including AB-HWCs and referral centers.

Progress and Achievements

• The program has screened 4.5 crore individuals, identifying 12 lakh carriers and distributing 1.5 crore Sickle Cell Status ID cards.
• The national target for SCD screenings for 2024-25 is 6.3 crore.
• ICMR partnered with Zydus Lifesciences for clinical trials of a potential new drug for SCD.
• World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day was celebrated nationwide to raise awareness.

Conclusion

• India’s dedicated commitment to addressing SCD is highlighted by comprehensive efforts through awareness campaigns and the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission.
• Through increased awareness, strategic screening initiatives, and integrated healthcare approaches, significant progress has been achieved toward the elimination of SCD as a public health concern by 2047.

7. Making Indian Agriculture Future-Ready

Resources and Records

• The 2024-25 budget allocated a record-high ₹1.52 lakh crore to support ongoing schemes and futuristic initiatives in agriculture, focusing on enhancing productivity and resilience.
• Allocation for agricultural research and development increased to ₹9,941.09 crore.
• The animal husbandry and dairy sector received ₹4,521 crore, while the fisheries sector received ₹2,616 crore, primarily to boost processing and infrastructure.
• India achieved a record foodgrain production of 3,322.98 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) in 2023-24, with significant increases in rice, wheat, and Shree Anna.
• Record production was also achieved in rapeseed and mustard, pulses, fruits, honey, flowers, plantation crops, spices, and medicinal plants.
• Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for all mandated kharif and rabi crops were raised for the marketing seasons 2024-25 and 2025-26, ensuring remunerative prices for farmers and promoting crop diversification.
• The southwest monsoon recorded a 5% surplus in rainfall, improving soil moisture and reservoir storage, benefiting winter crops and raising hopes for better farm productivity.

Initiatives and Interventions

• The Union Government approved seven major schemes with a total outlay of ₹14,235.30 crore to improve farmers’ lives and income.
• The Digital Agriculture Mission aims for digital transformation in agriculture through farmer-centric digital solutions.
  • Agristack: Enables efficient and faster service delivery to farmers.
  • Krishi Decision Support System (KDSS): Creates a geospatial system for informed decision-making.
  • Soil Profile Mapping: Enhances soil health and management practices.
• The mission is expected to provide employment opportunities to about 2.5 lakh trained local youth and Krishi Sakhis.
• A special initiative with an outlay of ₹3,979 crore was approved to prepare farmers for climate resilience and ensure sustainable food and nutritional security.
• Efficient management of plant genetic resources and genetic improvement of crops are major pathways to achieving these goals.

Key Decisions on Agricultural Imports and Exports

• The government increased the effective import duty on crude edible oil from 5.5% to 27.5% and on refined oil from 13.75% to 35.75% to support domestic edible oil prices.
• Restrictions on onion exports were removed, and export duty was reduced from 40% to 20%, benefiting onion growers.
• Export restrictions on Basmati rice varieties were removed, enabling farmers to recover foreign markets for premium produce.
• Approval was granted to create India’s first Integrated Agri-Export Facility at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Mumbai, revolutionizing agri-logistics and reducing wastage.

Rationalization and Convergence of Schemes

• Centrally sponsored schemes were rationalized into two umbrella schemes:
  • Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY): Promotes sustainable agriculture.
  • Krishonnati Yojana (KY): Addresses food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.
• Both schemes, with a proposed expenditure of ₹1,01,321.61 crore, focus on challenges like nutritional security, sustainability, climate change, and value chain development.

Technology and Innovation in Agriculture

• A scheme with an outlay of ₹2,291 crore was approved to prepare agriculture students and researchers for using cutting-edge technologies to address natural adversities.
• An initiative with an outlay of ₹1,702 crore aims to increase farmers’ income from livestock and dairy enterprises.
• A new scheme on sustainable horticulture, with an outlay of ₹1,129.30 crore, aims to make horticulture more profitable and attract youth to the sector.
• A scheme on natural resource management, with an outlay of ₹1,115 crore, was approved for the efficient management of water and soil.

Strategies and Steps

• A six-point strategy focuses on increased production, reduced costs, fair prices, compensation for losses, diversification, and natural farming.
• The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) was launched to enhance pest surveillance and management through a mobile app and web portal.
• The Prime Minister released 109 varieties of 61 crops to address challenges such as climate change and nutritional deficiencies.
• The agriculture ministry onboarded 266 breeder seed-producing centers on the SATHI portal to provide quality seeds at affordable prices.
• ‘Krishi Chaupal’ TV and radio programs will strengthen communication with farmers and promote best practices.
• A Farmers Grievance Redressal System (FGRS) will provide multi-channel support for farmers to register queries and grievances.
• A special campaign was launched to enhance the coverage of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) through Kisan Credit Card (KCC) accounts.
• The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund surpassed its target by creating over 10,000 units and mobilizing ₹10,000 crore in investments.
• A special drive aims to bring one crore farmers into natural farming in the next two years, supported by 10,000 bio-input resource centers.

Conclusion

• The year 2024 witnessed significant restructuring and development in the Indian agricultural ecosystem, making it future-ready while ensuring the well-being of farmers.

8. Government Initiatives in Climate Change: A Sustainable Path for Viksit Bharat@2047

India’s Commitment to Climate Action

• India is one of the fastest-growing countries globally and faces the challenge of promoting economic growth while addressing and adapting to climate change.
• The country is highly susceptible to climate change impacts due to its diverse ecosystems and socio-economic conditions.
• India has adopted a comprehensive strategy to address climate change through various initiatives focused on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience, and incorporating sustainable practices.
• These initiatives have gained momentum, with programs such as Sovereign Green Bonds, MISHTI, and the Green Credit Program demonstrating India’s dedication to sustainable development.

India’s Achievements Against NDC Targets

• India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), adopted in 2015, aimed to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels and achieve 40% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
• These targets have been achieved ahead of schedule, with non-fossil fuel sources accounting for 45.40% of installed capacity as of May 31, 2024, and emissions intensity of GDP reduced by 33% between 2005 and 2019.
• In 2022, India amended its NDC, raising the target for reducing emissions intensity of GDP to 45% by 2030 and increasing the target for non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 50% by 2030.
• India has made significant progress in solar power generation, adding 15.03 GW in 2023-24 to reach a total of 82.64 GW by April 30, 2024.

Key Climate Initiatives in 2023-2024

• PM Surya Ghar Yojana (Muft Bijli Yojana): Launched in February 2024 with a budget of ₹75,021 crore, this initiative aims to install rooftop solar panels on one crore homes to provide free electricity.
• Sovereign Green Bonds: The government introduced sovereign green bonds to raise capital for green projects, with ₹8,000 crore raised in the first tranche and an additional ₹16,000 crore allocated.
• GOBARdhan (Galvanising Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) Scheme: This scheme aims to convert cattle manure and organic waste into biogas, promoting a circular economy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Critical Mineral Mission: This mission focuses on enhancing domestic production and recycling of critical minerals like copper and lithium, reducing import reliance and ensuring resource security.
• Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI): Launched in June 2023, MISHTI aims to conserve and restore mangroves across India’s coastal areas, enhancing climate resilience and providing socio-economic benefits.
• Amrit Dharohar: This initiative focuses on maximizing the ecological and economic benefits of wetlands, promoting their sustainable use and improving biodiversity.
• Green Credit Program: This program incentivizes afforestation and reforestation efforts by enabling individuals, industries, and communities to earn green credits for planting trees.
• Solar Park Scheme: This scheme promotes the creation of large-scale solar parks across the country, facilitating renewable energy infrastructure development and private sector participation.
• Ecomark Scheme: The Ecomark Scheme labels environmentally friendly products that meet specific environmental standards, promoting sustainable consumption.

Conclusion

• India’s climate initiatives in 2023 and 2024 represent significant steps towards ecological restoration and sustainability, laying the foundation for a greener and more resilient future.
• The Indian government’s comprehensive approach to climate action demonstrates its commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and addressing the challenges of climate change.

9. Milestones and Initiatives in Science and Technology

Quantum Technologies

• India is making significant strides in quantum computing, aiming to harness its potential for advancements in various fields.
• National Quantum Mission (NQM): The government has launched the NQM to accelerate research and development in quantum technologies.
• Advancements in quantum communication are enhancing data security and enabling secure communication networks.

Space Exploration

• Chandrayaan Missions: India’s Chandrayaan missions have demonstrated its capabilities in lunar exploration and space research.
• Gaganyaan Mission: The Gaganyaan mission aims to launch a three-member crew into space, marking a significant milestone in India’s space program.
• Bharatiya Antariksha Station: India plans to establish its own space station module by 2035, further strengthening its position in space exploration.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• India is leveraging AI for various applications, including healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management.
• National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS): This mission is fostering innovation in AI, robotics, and other emerging technologies.
• AI in Healthcare: AI is being used for diagnostics, drug discovery, and personalized medicine, improving healthcare outcomes.

High-Performance Computing

• National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): The NSM aims to enhance India’s supercomputing capabilities for scientific research and development.
• PARAM Shivay Supercomputer: The PARAM Shivay is one of India’s fastest supercomputers, used for various research and development activities.

Biotechnology

• BioE3 Policy: The BioE3 policy aims to foster biomanufacturing and drive India’s bioeconomy to US$300 million by 2030.
• Biotechnology for Sustainable Development: India is utilizing biotechnology for applications in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental protection.

Renewable Energy

• Solar Power Development: India has made significant progress in solar power generation, with a target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission: This mission aims to promote the production and utilization of green hydrogen as a clean energy source.

Other Initiatives

• Deep Ocean Mission: The Deep Ocean Mission focuses on seabed exploration and energy resource development, highlighting India’s emphasis on sustainability.
• Semiconductor Manufacturing: India is promoting domestic semiconductor production to reduce import reliance and strengthen its position in the global technology landscape.
• Digital India Mission: The Digital India mission aims to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy, empowering citizens through technology.

Conclusion

• India’s milestones and initiatives in science and technology demonstrate its commitment to becoming a global leader in innovation and research.
• By investing in emerging technologies, promoting research and development, India is shaping a future where science and technology drive sustainable development and economic growth.