Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Dulhasti Stage II Hydropower Project Category: Geography Context: A panel under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently approved the Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project in Jammu & Kashmir. About Dulhasti Stage II Hydropower Project: Location: It is a 260-megawatt hydropower project proposed on the Chenab River in the Kishtwar District of Jammu and Kashmir.  Nature: It is an extension of the existing 390 MW Dulhasti Stage-I Hydroelectric Project (Dulhasti Power Station), which has been successfully operating since its commissioning in 2007. Construction: It is developed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) Limited on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) basis. Cost: The project is estimated to cost more than Rs 3,200 crore. Type: It is a run-of-the-river project. It uses the natural flow and elevation drop of Chenab river to produce electricity without creating a large reservoir for water storage. Composition: The project includes a surge shaft, a pressure shaft, and an underground powerhouse housing two 130 MW units, resulting in a total installed capacity of 260 MW and an annual energy generation. Mechanism: Under the plan, water will be diverted from the Stage-I power station through a separate tunnel measuring 3,685 metres in length and 8.5 metres in diameter to form a horseshoe-shaped pondage for Stage-II. Source of water: The project will divert water from the Stage-I power station through a 3,685-metre-long tunnel. It also aims to draw water from the Marusudar River (a major tributary of the Chenab) via the Pakal Dul project to optimize generation. Strategic significance: The project gained momentum after the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), 1960, following the Pahalgam terror attack. Source: The Tribune INSV Kaundinya Category: Defence and Security Context: Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi congratulated the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing  INSV Kaundinya to life. About INSV Kaundinya: Nature: It is a stitched ship which is inspired by a fifth-century vessel shown in Ajanta cave paintings. Nomenclature: It is named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner credited with founding the Funan kingdom in Southeast Asia (modern-day Cambodia/Vietnam) about 2,000 years ago Collaboration: It is a joint initiative of the Indian Navy, Ministry of Culture, and Hodi Innovations. Technique used: It has been built using traditional stitching techniques instead of metal nails. Artisans from Kerala used coconut fibre, coir rope, wooden joinery, natural resins, and cotton sails. Use of motifs: It features symbolic motifs like Gandabherunda (mythical two-headed eagle), a Simha Yali and a Harappan-style stone anchor on the deck. Significance: It showcases India’s ancient maritime traditions. It reflects India’s historic role in trade, cultural exchange, and modern maritime diplomacy. Source: PIB AILA (Artificially Intelligent Lab Assistant) Category: Science and Technology Context: Recently, researchers at IIT Delhi developed an AI system named AILA that can perform real scientific experiments, just like human scientists. About AILA (Artificially Intelligent Lab Assistant): Nature: It is an AI agent which can independently run complex scientific experiments, analyse results, and make decisions in real time. Development: It was developed by IIT Delhi researchers in collaboration with scientists from Denmark and Germany. Difference with earlier AI tools: Unlike earlier AI tools that mainly helped with writing or data analysis, AILA works directly with laboratory instruments.  Significance: It can operate real scientific equipment, particularly the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), one of the most delicate and complex instruments used to study materials at the nanoscale. Uniqueness: The agent has helped reduce the time taken to optimize high-resolution AFM imaging from 24 hours to 7–10 minutes. It performs experiments much like a trained scientist. Interface: It utilizes a chat-based interface where instructions in plain English are converted into executable computer code. Mechanism: When AILA is instructed to perform an experiment, it writes the necessary code, operates the scientific instrument, collects data, and analyses the results on its own. The entire scientific workflow, data generation, processing, and interpretation, is automated through AILA. Source: Business Today Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Category: Environment and Ecology Context: Fisher-folk have urged the Centre to include their representatives in policymaking bodies to attain the goal of responsible fishing in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).           About Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): Definition: An EEZ is an area of the ocean, generally extending 200 nautical miles (230 miles) beyond a nation’s territorial sea, within which a coastal nation has jurisdiction over both living and non-living resources. Associated convention: The concept of an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) was adopted through the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.  Rights involved: Under international law, within its defined EEZ, a coastal nation has: Sovereign rights for the purpose of exploring, exploiting, conserving, and managing natural resources of the seabed, subsoil, and waters above it. Jurisdiction as provided for in international law with regard to the establishment and use of artificial islands, installations, and structures; marine scientific research; and the protection and preservation of the marine environment. Other rights and duties provided for under international law. Fishing quotas: UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) indicates that the coastal state determines the acceptable level of fishing quotas in its EEZ, with a focus on sustainable management.  Exchange of information: Provisions under UNCLOS also provide for the regular exchange of information about the populations of resources in an EEZ in order to promote international scientific cooperation. Removal of marine hazards: EEZs have also been used to determine which country is responsible for removing marine hazards such as space debris. Rights of other states: UNCLOS establishes rights for how other countries may access the waters in an EEZ. Other States have the right for their ships and aircraft to traverse the EEZ and its airspace and to lay cables and pipelines. India and EEZ: India’s maritime zones are defined by the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and Other Maritime Zones Act, 1976. India’s EEZ covers approximately 2.30 to 2.37 million sq. km and includes areas around the Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Source: The Hindu Businessline Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Category: Polity and Governance Context: Recently, CAQM outlined a detailed strategy to curb air pollution in Delhi, projecting an increase in the number of clear “blue-sky” days over the next three to four years. About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): Nature: The CAQM is a statutory body established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region (NCR) and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021. Objective: It aims for betterment in terms of coordination, research, identification, and resolution of problems surrounding the air quality index and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Replacement: It replaced the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), which was a non-statutory body created by the Supreme Court. Focus on Delhi-NCR: It undertakes action for the prevention and control of Air pollution in Delhi-NCR and coordinate its actions on monitoring of air quality with the government of Delhi and the adjoining states, which includes Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.  Binding orders: All the directions and orders by the Commission are of binding nature, and any person, officer, or authority shall be bound to comply with the same. Accountability: The commission is directly accountable to the parliament.  Major powers: Restricting activities influencing air quality. Investigating and conducting research related to environmental pollution impacting air quality, preparing codes and guidelines to prevent and control air pollution, Issuing directions on matters including inspections, or regulations, which will be binding on the concerned person or authority. Composition: It will be chaired by a government official of the rank of Secretary or Chief Secretary. It will also have five ex officio members who are either Chief Secretaries or Secretaries in charge of the department dealing with environment protection in the States of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Source: The Times of India (MAINS Focus) A Multipolar World with Bipolar Characteristics (GS Paper II: Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s Interests)   Context (Introduction) The global order in 2025 is undergoing a structural transition marked by diffusion of power across regions, yet dominated by an intensifying U.S.–China rivalry, with Russia acting as a pivotal swing power shaping strategic outcomes.   Current Situation: Nature of the Emerging Global Order End of unipolarity: The post–Cold War U.S.-led unipolar moment has decisively ended, visible since Russia’s annexation of Crimea (2014) and its sustained capacity to defy Western sanctions. Persistence of U.S. dominance: The U.S. remains the world’s largest military spender and technological leader but no longer enjoys uncontested influence. China as systemic challenger: China’s economy has reached roughly two-thirds of U.S. GDP and continues to grow faster, translating economic strength into military and technological power. Russia as swing power: Despite a weaker economy, Russia’s nuclear arsenal, energy resources and willingness to use force preserve its great power status. Bipolar core: Strategic outcomes are increasingly shaped by U.S.–China competition, lending bipolar characteristics to an otherwise multipolar system. Fluidity and uncertainty: Unlike the Cold War, the emerging order lacks stable blocs, increasing unpredictability and risks of miscalculation.   India’s Position in the Emerging Order Natural middle power: India’s economic size, demographic strength and geopolitical location place it among key middle powers navigating the transition. Strategic autonomy: India avoids formal alliances, engaging simultaneously with the U.S., Russia, China, Europe and the Global South. Issue-based alignment: Participation in QUAD, BRICS, SCO and G20 reflects India’s multi-alignment approach. Economic opportunity: Supply chain diversification and re-globalisation offer India manufacturing and investment prospects. Security challenges: Intensifying U.S.–China rivalry and China’s regional assertiveness directly affect India’s neighbourhood. Diplomatic leverage: Fluid multipolarity expands India’s space for agenda-setting in global governance reforms.   Need of the Hour: Policy Imperatives for India Strengthen strategic autonomy: Maintain flexibility to avoid entanglement in great-power rivalry. Deepen economic resilience: Accelerate manufacturing, technology and energy security to withstand global fragmentation. Shape regional order: Play a stabilising role in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region. Lead Global South: Use platforms like G20 and BRICS to amplify developing country concerns. Reform multilateralism: Push for UN and global financial institution reforms reflecting new power realities. Balance deterrence and diplomacy: Manage China challenge while keeping dialogue channels open.   Conclusion The emerging world order is multipolar in structure but bipolar in strategic thrust. For India, this transition presents both risks and opportunities. By sustaining strategic autonomy, strengthening domestic capacity and practising proactive diplomacy, India can convert global uncertainty into long-term strategic advantage.   UPSC Mains Question “In a world that is multipolar but strategically bipolar, middle powers have greater responsibility but narrower margins for error.” Discuss with reference to India’s foreign policy choices. (250 words,15 marks )   Source: The Hindu Hate Crimes and Internal Migration: Lessons from the Angel Chakma Case (GS Paper II – Polity: Fundamental Rights, Social Justice | GS Paper I – Society)   Context (30–40 words) The death of Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura, following a violent assault in Uttarakhand has once again exposed the persistence of hate crimes in India, particularly against people from the Northeast, raising concerns over dignity, equality and internal security.   Current Status of Hate Crimes in India Rising incidents: NCRB data shows a steady rise in crimes motivated by identity—caste, tribe, region, religion—though “hate crime” is not a separate legal category. Northeast vulnerability: Students and migrant workers from the Northeast frequently report racial profiling, stereotyping and violence in mainland cities. Under-reporting: Fear of harassment, delayed FIRs and social pressure lead to significant under-reporting of hate-based violence. Legal fragmentation: Hate crimes are prosecuted under IPC provisions (murder, assault) and special laws like SC/ST (PoA) Act, without recognising bias motivation separately. Institutional response: Bodies like NHRC often intervene post-facto, highlighting systemic gaps in prevention. Public protests: Repeated incidents trigger protests and solidarity marches, reflecting erosion of trust in local law enforcement.   Structural Reasons Behind Hate Crimes Stereotyping and racism: Racialised perceptions of Northeast citizens as “foreign” persist despite constitutional equality. Weak deterrence: Low conviction rates in atrocity-related crimes reduce deterrence value of existing laws. Delayed policing: Past cases (e.g., Nido Tania, 2014) show delayed FIRs and poor sensitivity training. Urban anonymity: Migrants lack local social capital, making them easy targets. Social media amplification: Hate narratives spread rapidly, normalising everyday discrimination. Limited awareness: Citizens often remain unaware that racial abuse and targeted violence constitute serious offences.   Key Reports and Committees Bezbaruah Committee (2014): Recommended treating racial discrimination as a specific offence. Called for fast-track courts for crimes against Northeast citizens. Emphasised police sensitisation and legal awareness campaigns. NHRC Observations: Repeatedly flagged lack of uniform hate crime data. Highlighted failure of States to implement preventive mechanisms. Law Commission Discussions: Suggested need for recognising motive-based crimes to strengthen prosecution.   Previous Similar Cases  Nido Tania (2014, Delhi): Death following racist assault; led to Bezbaruah Committee. Manipuri student attacks (Bengaluru, 2017): Highlighted pattern of regional bias. Recent assaults on migrant workers: Indicate spillover of identity politics into everyday violence.   Actions Taken in the Angel Chakma Case Criminal action: Multiple arrests including adults and juveniles; absconding accused pursued across borders. Legal provisions invoked: SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 and Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955. Compensation: Interim relief provided to the victim’s family under statutory schemes. NHRC intervention: Notice issued to district authorities, demanding accountability. Political condemnation: Cross-party condemnation reflects national concern, though policy response remains limited. Public scrutiny: Protests and civil society pressure have kept the issue in national focus.   Gaps and Challenges No hate crime law: Absence of a distinct legal category obscures motive-based violence. Policing deficits: Lack of cultural sensitivity training among frontline police. Jurisdictional bias: Victims face hostility when crimes occur outside home States. Weak data: NCRB does not publish consolidated hate crime statistics. Reactive approach: State response remains largely post-incident. Trust deficit: Repeated denials of bias undermine faith in institutions.   Way Forward Legal recognition: Introduce hate crime as a distinct offence, incorporating motive-based sentencing. Implement Bezbaruah Committee recommendations: Fast-track courts, special cells and monitoring mechanisms. Police sensitisation: Mandatory training on diversity, internal migration and racial discrimination. Data reform: NCRB to publish disaggregated hate crime data. Preventive outreach: University and city-level support systems for migrant students and workers. Social transformation: Public campaigns reinforcing constitutional fraternity and national integration.   Conclusion The Angel Chakma case is not an isolated crime but a mirror to deeper social fault lines. Without legal clarity, institutional sensitivity and preventive frameworks, hate crimes will continue to threaten India’s constitutional promise of equality, dignity and unity in diversity.   UPSC Mains Question “Hate crimes are not merely law-and-order issues but reflect deeper social and institutional failures.” Discuss in the context of recent incidents involving internal migrants in India.(250 words, 15 marks)   Source: The Hindu    

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Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) Category: Polity and Governance Context: Recently, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare reviewed the progress of Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), underscoring its vital role in pharmacovigilance. About Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC): Nodal ministry: It is an autonomous Institution of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India. Objective: It is created to set standards of drugs in the country. Its basic function is to regularly update the standards of drugs commonly required for treatment of diseases prevailing in this region. Organizational Structure: The Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is the chairperson of IPC. It has a three-tier structure comprising a General Body, a Governing Body, and a Scientific Body. Pharmacovigilance: IPC acts as the National Coordination Centre (NCC) for the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), monitoring adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Materiovigilance: It operates the Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI) to track safety issues related to medical devices. Reference Substances: It provides certified reference substances used as analytical standards for drug testing.  Major focus areas: It promotes rational use of generic medicines by publishing National Formulary of India. It prescribes standards for identity, purity and strength of drugs essentially required from the health care perspective of human beings and animals. It also provides IP Reference Substances (IPRS) which act as a fingerprint for identification of an article under test and its purity as prescribed in IP. Official Publications: Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP): The official book of standards for drugs in India, having legal status under the Second Schedule of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. National Formulary of India (NFI): A guide to promote the rational and safe use of medicines. Source: DD News INS Vaghsheer Category: Defence and Security Context: Recently, President Droupadi Murmu undertook a sortie onboard Indian Navy’s frontline submarine INS Vaghsheer on the Western seaboard. About INS Vaghsheer: Nature: It is the sixth submarine of the first batch of six Kalvari-class, or Scorpene-class, submarines ordered by the Indian Navy under Project-75. Nomenclature: It is named after the sandfish, a deadly deep-sea predator of the Indian Ocean.  Commissioning: It was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in January 2025. It now joins its sister vessels INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela, and INS Vagir, which were commissioned, respectively, in December 2017, September 2019, March 2021, November 2021, and January 2023. Construction: These submarines have been completely built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) through French technology transfer. Suited for warfare: Armed with torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and mine-laying capabilities, it excels in anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and surveillance. Stealth capability: It features advanced acoustic absorption techniques, low radiated noise levels, and a hydro-dynamically optimized shape, making it one of the quietest submarines globally. Weaponry: It is armed with exocet anti-ship missiles, heavy-weight torpedoes, and naval mines. It is designed for sea denial and access denial missions. Endurance: It is capable of operating for up to 50 days at sea and reaching speeds of 20 knots when submerged. Accommodation: It can accommodate 8 officers and 35 sailors and is fitted with an anti-torpedo countermeasure system. Modernization: It is equipped with indigenously developed systems like the Ku-Band SATCOM (Rukmini) and an internal communication network. Source: The Economic Times Narasapuram Lace Craft Category: History and Culture Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the lace products made by self-help groups in Narsapuram of West Godavari district during his “Man-Ki-Baat.” About Narasapuram Lace Craft: Location: This craft is associated with Narsapur, which is situated on the bank of Godavari River in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Origin: It was introduced in 1844 by a Scottish missionary, Macrae, and his wife. History: It is believed that the women of the farming community of this region started creating highly attractive artefacts from colourful lace, about 150 years ago. Resilience: The craft has survived the Indian famine (1899) and the Great Depression (1929). By the early 1900s, above 2,000 women were involved in the craft in the Godavari region.  Significance: It was recognized with the Geographical Indication tag in 2024. Raw materials: It primarily uses fine cotton threads in various thicknesses and colours. Artisans also incorporate silk, rayon, or synthetic threads for decorative pieces, with beads and sequins added to enhance export-quality designs. Technique: Artisans use crochet needles and fine cotton thread to create intricate floral, geometric, and paisley patterns. Tools: The main tool is the crochet hook, available in different sizes to create diverse patterns and textures. Design: This craft showcases intricate floral, geometric, and paisley patterns inspired by nature and traditional motifs. Famous products: Narsapuram’s famed hand-made crochet industry produces doilies, pillow covers, cushion covers, bed spreads, table-runners, and table cloths etc. Source: Deccan Chronicle Kolleru Lake Category: Environment and Ecology Context: Kolleru Lake is now getting recognition for its delicious black dried fish that has carved a special place for itself in both domestic and international markets. About Kolleru Lake: Location: It is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, located in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located in the inter-deltaic plain of rivers Krishna and Godavari near the city of Eluru and serves as a natural flood-balancing reservoir for these two rivers.  Other names: This lake is also known as the “Peerless Fisherman”s Paradise and Bird Heaven”. Area: It spreads over an area of about 308 sq. km. and expands up to 954 sq.km. at the highest flood level.  Uniqueness: It is one of India’s largest natural freshwater lakes. It is also characterized as the largest shallow freshwater lake in Asia. Associated rivers: It is a shallow lake and it receives water from four rivers, namely Budameru, Ramileru, Tammileru, and Errakalva, and 18 drains.  Outlet: This lake empties its water into the Bay of Bengal through a single outlet called ‘upputera’. Significance: The lake was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in November 1999. It was also designated as a wetland of international importance in November 2002 under the International Ramsar Convention.  Important for migratory birds: It supports over 20 million migratory birds annually, including grey pelicans, painted storks, and open-billed storks. It is a haven for species migrating from Siberia, Central Asia, and the Himalayas, making it one of India’s richest avian habitats. Economic importance: The lake is deeply intertwined with local livelihoods, sustaining thousands who depend on fishing, duck farming, and paddy cultivation. Source: ETV Bharat Plasser’s Quick Relaying System (PQRS) Category: Science and Technology Context: The Alipurduar Division of the Northeast Frontier Railway has recorded its highest-ever single-day output of 1,033 track metres using Plasser’s Quick Relaying System (PQRS). About Plasser’s Quick Relaying System (PQRS): Nature: It is a modern semi-mechanized system automatic machine used for quick railway track replacement. Objective: It aims to speed up track renewal while minimizing traffic disruption, enhancing safety, reliability, and maintenance efficiency. Composition: It consists of self-propelled cranes which move on an auxiliary track of 3400 mm gauge having the same centre line as that of track to be relayed. These portal cranes are capable of self-loading and unloading from BFRs (Bogie Flat Wagons). Lifting capacity: Newer models can lift up to 9 tonnes, allowing them to handle 13-meter-long Pre-stressed Concrete (PRC) sleeper panels. Uses: The system is widely used for new track construction as well as the modernisation of existing track infrastructure. Significance: It helps longer track lengths to be renewed within shorter traffic blocks. Further, it is cost effective, as it reduces manual labour and lifecycle maintenance costs. Operational Sequence: New panels are prefabricated at a Base Depot. Old panels are lifted and transferred directly to BFRs. New panels are laid using the portal cranes. Source: DD News (MAINS Focus) Inclusive Growth: From Social Justice to Economic Strategy (GS Paper III – Inclusive growth and issues arising from it)   Context (Introduction) Recent global legal and market developments show that inclusion, particularly of LGBTQIA+ communities, is no longer just a rights-based issue but a business and economic imperative, influencing consumer behaviour, talent retention and long-term corporate competitiveness.   Inclusive Growth: Core Idea and Relevance Definition: Inclusive growth refers to economic growth that creates opportunities for all sections of society and ensures equitable access to employment, markets, resources and public services. Economic Logic: Growth that excludes segments of the population underutilises human capital, lowers aggregate productivity and weakens long-term demand. Indian Context: Persistent inequalities based on gender, caste, region and identity reduce labour force participation and skill utilisation, constraining India’s demographic dividend. Market Dimension: Inclusion expands consumer bases, strengthens trust in institutions and improves workforce retention and innovation capacity. Global Evidence: International studies show that economies with lower discrimination levels record higher productivity growth and better human capital outcomes.   Challenges to Inclusive Growth in India Low Labour Force Participation: Women’s LFPR remains structurally low, and marginalised groups face informalisation and precarious employment. Social Exclusion Costs: Discrimination leads to health losses, lower educational attainment and reduced lifetime earnings. Skill and Opportunity Gaps: Unequal access to quality education, skilling and networks limits upward mobility. Regional Inequalities: Growth remains concentrated in a few States and urban centres, leaving aspirational districts behind. Policy–Practice Gap: Constitutional equality often does not translate into workplace inclusion or market access. Informality Dominance: Over 80% of employment remains informal, limiting social security and productivity gains.   Why Inclusion Drives Growth  Higher Workforce Participation: Inclusion brings more people into productive employment, raising potential output. Productivity Gains: Diverse teams and inclusive workplaces show better problem-solving and innovation outcomes. Demand Expansion: Inclusion enlarges consumer markets and stabilises consumption-led growth. Human Capital Returns: Reduced discrimination improves health, education and skill outcomes. Business Competitiveness: Firms with inclusive policies attract talent and retain skilled workers. Macroeconomic Stability: Broad-based growth reduces social tensions and policy uncertainty.   Way Forward: Making Growth Truly Inclusive Policy Integration: Mainstream inclusion across economic, labour, education and industrial policies. Labour Market Reforms: Promote formalisation, equal pay, safe workplaces and non-discriminatory hiring. Human Capital Investment: Target marginalised groups through education, skilling and digital access. Private Sector Role: Encourage inclusive corporate practices through ESG norms and disclosure frameworks. Data-Driven Governance: Use disaggregated data to design targeted interventions and track outcomes. Social Infrastructure: Strengthen healthcare, childcare, transport and housing to enable participation.   Conclusion Inclusive growth is not redistribution after growth, but growth itself. Economies that integrate social inclusion into markets, workplaces and institutions achieve higher productivity, resilience and legitimacy. For India, inclusion is essential to fully realise its demographic and economic potential.   Mains Question “Inclusive growth is both a moral necessity and an economic imperative.” Discuss the statement in the context of India’s development trajectory. (250 words, 15 marks) Source: The Hindu India’s Clean Energy Transition: Opportunities, Constraints and the Way Forward (GS Paper III – Infrastructure, Energy, Inclusive and Sustainable Growth)   Context (Introduction) India’s clean energy push is central to its climate commitments, energy security and growth strategy. With rising electricity demand, import dependence on fossil fuels and global climate pressures, renewables and green hydrogen are seen as pillars of a long-term transition. Recent investment and capacity trends signal promise, but systemic bottlenecks threaten momentum.   Current Status of India’s Clean Energy Sector Strong Investment Momentum: Clean energy attracted $3.4 billion FDI in the first nine months of FY2025, accounting for over 80% of total power sector inflows, reflecting investor confidence in India’s scale and policy intent. Globally Competitive Tariffs: Reverse auctions have pushed solar and wind tariffs to historic lows, making renewables among the cheapest electricity sources in India, supporting affordability and industrial competitiveness. Ambitious Capacity Expansion: India is progressing towards its 500 GW non-fossil capacity target by 2030, backed by large-scale solar parks and hybrid renewable projects. Green Hydrogen Push: The National Green Hydrogen Mission targets 5 million metric tonnes annually by 2030, aligned with decarbonisation of steel, fertilisers and refining. Manufacturing Ecosystem Developing: Domestic solar module and cell manufacturing is expanding under PLI schemes, but remains partially dependent on imports, especially upstream components.   Key Challenges and Structural Constraints DISCOM Financial Stress: Persistent unpaid dues and weak balance sheets of power distribution companies undermine payment security, increasing counterparty risk for developers. Contractual Uncertainty: Post-auction attempts by some States to renegotiate tariffs weaken contract sanctity, raising sovereign and regulatory risk perceptions. Transmission Bottlenecks: Around 60 GW of renewable capacity is stranded due to inadequate transmission infrastructure, preventing evacuation of clean power. Curtailment Risk: Renewable generators face frequent curtailment without compensation, complicating revenue forecasting and increasing financing costs. High Cost of Capital: Renewable financing costs in India are nearly 80% higher than in advanced economies, driven by grid, payment and policy risks. Green Hydrogen Economics: Current green hydrogen costs ($4.1–$5/kg) are significantly higher than grey hydrogen, with viability dependent on subsidies, mandates or carbon pricing.   Sector-Specific Challenges Demand Uncertainty: Industries hesitate to retrofit without assured supply and price stability. Supply-Side Risk: Producers are reluctant to invest without long-term offtake guarantees. Infrastructure Gaps: Storage, transport pipelines and end-use systems are underdeveloped, requiring capital beyond production facilities. Policy Coordination Needs: Hydrogen requires alignment across power, industry, transport and climate policy, which remains fragmented.   Way Forward:  Strengthen Contractual Sanctity: Ensure enforceability of power purchase agreements to restore investor confidence and reduce risk premiums. Reform DISCOM Finances: Expand payment security mechanisms, escrow systems and direct benefit reforms to stabilise revenue flows. Accelerate Grid Expansion: Synchronise renewable capacity addition with transmission build-out through proactive planning and faster clearances. Compensation for Curtailment: Introduce transparent curtailment frameworks with compensation norms to lower financing uncertainty. Deepen Manufacturing Integration: Enforce domestic content rules consistently and support upstream components to reduce import dependence. Create Green Hydrogen Demand: Use blending mandates, long-term offtake contracts, and carbon pricing to overcome the demand–supply deadlock.   Conclusion India’s clean energy transition is no longer constrained by ambition or demand, but by execution and system design. Resolving grid, financial and contractual bottlenecks is as critical as adding capacity. If these reforms align with realistic hydrogen timelines and industrial demand creation, India can emerge as a global model for managing a complex, large-scale energy transition.   Mains Question “India’s clean energy transition faces fewer technological constraints than institutional and financial ones.” Discuss with reference to renewables and green hydrogen. (250 words, 15 marks)   Source: Indian Express