Subject: International Relations – India-UAE Bilateral; Energy Security; Defence Partnership; AI Supercomputing; Strategic Chokepoint.

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Abu Dhabi as the first leg of a six-day, five-nation tour (UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Italy) on May 15, 2026
• Reiterated India’s support for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz – critical for global energy and food security

Key Outcomes

Energy Cooperation

• Strategic Petroleum Reserves: Agreement to raise UAE’s participation in India’s strategic petroleum reserves to 30 million barrels (SPRL + ADNOC)
• LPG Supply: Long-term arrangement between Indian Oil Corporation and ADNOC

Defence Partnership

• Framework for Strategic Defence Partnership covering:
  • Industrial collaboration
  • Maritime security
  • Cyber defence
  • Information exchange

Technology & AI

• Supercomputing Cluster: Agreement between India’s C-DAC and UAE’s G-42 to set up an 8 exaflop supercomputing facility
• Cerebras Chip: UAE President presented a Cerebras chip to PM Modi – will power India’s supercomputing facility under India AI Mission

Trade & Logistics

• MAITRI Virtual Trade Corridor: Digital framework linking customs and port authorities to streamline cargo movement, reduce costs, cut transit times

Maritime Sector

• Ship Repair Cluster at Vadinar (Gujarat)
• Skill development framework for maritime sector

Strategic Significance

Strait of Hormuz Context

• India’s energy imports pass through this critical chokepoint (25-30% of global oil)
• Iran-Israel-US war (since Feb 2026) has disrupted navigation
• India’s backing for safe passage signals strategic alignment with UAE

India AI Mission

• 8 exaflop supercomputing facility will boost India’s AI capabilities
• Cerebras chips are advanced AI processors (competitors to NVIDIA)

MAITRI Virtual Trade Corridor

• “MAITRI” stands for Multimodal Advanced Industrial Trade Relationship Initiative (suggested)
• Digital platform for seamless cargo movement

Key Terms for Prelims

• Strait of Hormuz: Chokepoint between Iran and Oman; 25-30% of global oil passes through
• Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR): Emergency crude oil stockpiles (India has 5.33 MMT capacity at 3 locations)
• ADNOC: Abu Dhabi National Oil Company – UAE’s state-owned oil company
• C-DAC: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (India’s premier R&D org for supercomputing)
• G-42: UAE-based AI and cloud computing company
• Cerebras Chip: Advanced AI processor (wafer-scale engine)
• Exaflop: 10¹⁸ floating-point operations per second (unit of supercomputing speed)
• RBL Bank: Indian private sector bank (receiving $3 billion from Emirates NDB)

Source/Reference:

https://www.newsonair.gov.in/pm-modi-to-embark-on-a-six-day-visit-to-uae-netherlands-sweden-norway-italy-today/

Subject: Polity – Civil Services Reforms; Governance – Capacity Building; Mission Karmayogi; iGOT; AI Integration.

Why in News?

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that Mission Karmayogi is steadily moving towards an AI-integrated governance framework, linking capacity building, competency development, technology, and public service delivery

What is Mission Karmayogi?

Full Name

• National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB)

Launched

• September 2, 2020

Nodal Ministry

• Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) , Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Objective

• To build a future-ready, citizen-centric civil service with the right attitudes, skills, and knowledge aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047

Key Components

iGOT Karmayogi (Integrated Government Online Training)

• Digital learning platform for civil servants
• Offers role-specific, competency-based courses
• Accessible anytime, anywhere (on-boarded over 30 lakh users)

Capacity Building Commission (CBC)

• Established to coordinate and standardize capacity building efforts across ministries
• Approves annual capacity building plans

HR Management Module

• Maintains individual civil servant profiles (skills, competencies, training history)
• Data-driven postings and career progression

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

• Tracks training effectiveness and impact on service delivery

AI Integration (2026 Update)

• Moving towards AI-integrated governance framework
• AI used for:
  • Personalized learning paths on iGOT
  • Predictive analytics for training needs
  • Automation of administrative processes
  • Enhancing grievance redressal efficiency

Governance Reforms Impact (2014-2026)

CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System)

• Annual grievances received: increased from ~2 lakh (2014) to 25-30 lakh (present)
• Reflects growing public trust due to improved responsiveness and accountability

Digital Life Certificates (Jeevan Pramaan)

• 10-11 crore certificates already generated
• Enables pensioners to complete formalities digitally without physical visits

Key Terms for Prelims

• Mission Karmayogi: National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB) – launched 2020
• iGOT Karmayogi: Integrated Government Online Training – digital learning platform
• Capacity Building Commission (CBC): Nodal body for capacity building coordination
• CPGRAMS: Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System
• Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan): Biometric-enabled digital certificate for pensioners
• DoPT: Department of Personnel and Training – nodal ministry for Mission Karmayogi

Source/Reference:

https://www.newsonair.gov.in/mission-karmayogi-steadily-moving-towards-an-ai-integrated-governance-framework-says-union-minister-jitendra-singh/

Subject: Economy – Foreign Trade Policy; Advance Authorisation; Gold Imports; Export Promotion; DGFT.

Why in News?

• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) capped gold imports under the Advance Authorisation (AA) scheme at 100 kilograms
• New restrictions introduced amid surging gold imports (all-time high of USD 71.98 billion in FY 2025-26) and rising import duty (raised to 15% from 6% a day earlier)
• Move aims to curb non-essential imports and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves

What is Advance Authorisation Scheme?

Definition

• Scheme allowing duty-free import of inputs (raw materials, components) that are physically incorporated into export products
• Operates on standard input-output norms (SIONS) – specifying quantity of input allowed per unit of output

Key Features

• Export Obligation: Must export finished goods of specific value within prescribed time (typically 18 months)
• Value Addition: Minimum 15% value addition required (except for gems & jewellery – 10.1% for certain categories)
• Purpose: Boosts export competitiveness by exempting import duties on inputs

New Restrictions (DGFT Notification)

Why These Restrictions?

Import Surge Context

• India’s gold imports surged >24% to all-time high of USD 71.98 billion in FY 2025-26
• Volume terms: 721.03 tonnes (down 4.76% from previous year – reflecting price impact)

Recent Duty Hikes

• Basic Customs Duty on gold/silver: raised to 15% (from 6%) – May 2026
• 3% Integrated GST (IGST) imposed on gold/silver imports earlier (temporarily disrupted bank imports, sharp fall in April shipments)

Macroeconomic Pressure

• Elevated crude oil prices (West Asia crisis)
• Pressure on foreign exchange reserves
• Non-essential imports (gold, silver) targeted for curbs

Gems & Jewellery Sector Context

• AA scheme widely utilised by exporters in gems & jewellery sector
• India is world’s second-largest gold consumer (after China)
• Nearly all gold requirement imported – no domestic mining of significance

Key Terms for Prelims

• Advance Authorisation (AA): Duty-free import of inputs for export production
• DGFT: Directorate General of Foreign Trade – under Ministry of Commerce
• SION: Standard Input Output Norms – prescribed input quantities per unit of export
• Export Obligation: Mandatory export value to be achieved under AA
• Value Addition: Minimum percentage of value to be added in exported product (15% standard; 10.1% for some jewellery)
• SEIS: Service Exports from India Scheme (different scheme; do not confuse)
• MEIS: Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (predecessor to RoDTEP; now phased out)

Source/Reference:

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/govt-caps-gold-imports-under-advance-authorisation-at-100-kg-tightens-compliance-rules/articleshow/131097025.cms

Subject: Environment – Wildlife Sanctuary; Himalayan Biodiversity; IBA; Critically Endangered Brown Bear; Kinnaur.

Why in News?

• Himalayan brown bear (sow with two cubs) photographed inside the sanctuary in May 2026 after a gap of nearly seven years 
• A horned lark was recorded for the first time at the sanctuary in May 2026, marking the first formal documented record of the species from the Kinnaur region 
• The sanctuary also hosted an international bird-watching programme in October 2025, with participants from 15 countries recording over 35 bird species 

About Rakchham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary

Location

• Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh
• Also known as Sangla Wildlife Sanctuary or Raksham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary 

Establishment

• Established in 1962 

Area

• Approximately 650 sq km (larger ecological area); core protected area spans 30.98 sq km 

Altitude

• Ranges from 3,200 to 5,486 metres above sea level 

Unique Climate

• Located in a dry trans-Himalayan zone – does not experience monsoons (unlike other Himachal sanctuaries) 

Trekking Route

• Lamkhanga Pass – connects Kinnaur (Himachal Pradesh) to Gangotri region (Uttarakhand) 

Ecological Significance

Flora

• Forest types: Dry Alpine Scrub, Dry Temperate Coniferous Forest, Upper West Himalayan Temperate Forests
• Key species: Rhododendrons, Chilgoza pine (Pinus girardiana), Deodar (Cedrus deodara), oak, juniper
• Medicinal herbs: Dhup (Jurinea macrocephala), Karu (Gentiana kurroo), Patish (Aconitum heterophyllum), Kuth (Saussurea lappa) – important in Ayurvedic medicine 

Fauna

• Snow leopard (Uncia uncia)
• Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus)
• Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus)
• Musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster)
• Bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan tahr, Goral, Serow, Leopard, Common langur 

Avifauna

• Western Tragopan (Vulnerable – IUCN) – the site’s qualifying species for IBA status 
• Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Kaleej Pheasant
• Horned lark – first recorded in sanctuary in May 2026
• Over 170 bird species recorded in Kinnaur district 

Himalayan Brown Bear (Key Facts)

Recent Sighting (May 2026)

• A female bear with two cubs photographed – indicates a healthy, suitable habitat 
• Second photographic evidence from the region (first was in 2016-17) 

Key Terms for Prelims

• Rakchham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary: Also known as Sangla Wildlife Sanctuary (Kinnaur, HP; established 1962)
• Lamkhanga Pass: Connects Kinnaur (HP) to Gangotri (Uttarakhand)
• Himalayan Brown Bear: Ursus arctos isabellinus – IUCN Critically Endangered
• Western Tragopan: Tragopan melanocephalus – Vulnerable pheasant species; qualifying species for IBA status
• Horned Lark: First recorded in sanctuary in May 2026
• Chilgoza Pine: Pinus girardiana – edible pine nuts; found in sanctuary
• Baspa Valley: Valley where sanctuary is located; site of Baspa I and Baspa II hydroelectric projects
• Key Biodiversity Area (KBA): Site of international significance for biodiversity conservation
• Important Bird Area (IBA): BirdLife International designation

Source/Reference:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rakchham_Chitkul_Wildlife_Sanctuary

Subject: Health – Women’s Health; Non-Communicable Diseases; Diabetes Prevention; Metabolic Syndrome; PCOS.

Why in News?

• A debate has emerged on renaming Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) to Polycystic Ovary Metabolic Syndrome (PMOS) in India to highlight its strong link with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes risk
• The proposed name change aims to shift focus from “reproductive disorder” to “metabolic disorder” – encouraging earlier intervention for diabetes prevention

What is PCOS?

Definition

• A common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age
• Characterized by:
  • Irregular or absent menstrual periods
  • Excess androgen (male hormone) levels
  • Polycystic ovaries (multiple small follicles on ultrasound)

Prevalence in India

• Affects approximately 20-25% of Indian women of reproductive age (one of the highest rates globally)
• Increasing due to lifestyle changes (sedentary habits, processed foods)

Why Rename PCOS to PMOS?

The Metabolic Link

Scientific Rationale

• 70-80% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance – regardless of body weight
• Insulin resistance leads to compensatory hyperinsulinemia (high insulin levels)
• High insulin drives excess androgen production (thus the reproductive symptoms)
• PCOS women have 4-7 times higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Proposed Name: PMOS (Polycystic Ovary Metabolic Syndrome)

• Emphasizes the metabolic rather than just ovarian aspect
• Encourages early screening for diabetes and cardiovascular risk
• Promotes lifestyle interventions (diet, exercise) over symptom-specific treatments

Diabetes Prevention in PCOS Women

Why Early Intervention Matters

• Diabetes develops 5-10 years earlier in PCOS women than in general population
• Many PCOS women remain undiagnosed until they present with infertility

Prevention Strategies

Policy Implications

• Integrate PCOS management into non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention programs
• Screen PCOS women for diabetes at diagnosis (not just later in life)
• Cover metformin under Ayushman Bharat or other schemes for PCOS

Current Status of PCOS in India

Awareness Gap

• Many women (and even some doctors) still think PCOS is “just about irregular periods”
• Lack of awareness about long-term metabolic consequences

Government Initiatives (Relevant)

• National NCD Program – covers diabetes screening but does not explicitly flag PCOS as a risk group
• PM-JAY – covers infertility treatment in some states, but not preventive metabolic care for PCOS
• Poshan Abhiyaan – could integrate PCOS nutrition counseling

Key Terms for Prelims

• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Hormonal disorder with ovarian cysts, irregular periods, excess androgens
• PMOS (Polycystic Ovary Metabolic Syndrome): Proposed name emphasizing metabolic component
• Insulin Resistance: Reduced ability of cells to respond to insulin → high insulin levels → metabolic dysfunction
• Hyperinsulinemia: Excess insulin in blood; drives androgen production in PCOS
• Metformin: Anti-diabetic drug; improves insulin sensitivity
• Androgen: Male hormone (testosterone); excess causes acne, facial hair, male-pattern balding
• HbA1c: Glycated hemoglobin test for long-term blood sugar control

Source/Reference:

https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/pcos-pmos-renaming-change-indian-women-prevent-diabetes-10698647/

GS Paper II – International Relations (Bilateral Relations)
India-UAE Strategic Partnership; Energy Security; Defence Cooperation; Maritime Infrastructure; AI and Supercomputing

Introduction

India-UAE strategic partnership is built on political trust, economic cooperation, and strong people-to-people ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s May 2026 visit to the United Arab Emirates deepened cooperation in energy, defence, AI, infrastructure, investment, and skill development. Bilateral trade crossed US$100 billion in FY 2025–26, with both nations aiming to reach US$200 billion by 2032.

Main Body

Historical Ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Historical Background:

• Trade in pearls, dates, spices, textiles, and fisheries connected western India with the Gulf region for centuries.
• Formal diplomatic relations established in 1972.
• Prime Minister Modi’s 2015 visit was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 34 years.
• PM Modi has visited UAE seven times since 2014; UAE President has visited India five times.

Current Status:

• UAE is one of India’s largest trading partners, a major energy supplier, and a key investor in infrastructure and renewable energy.
• Bilateral merchandise trade crossed US100billionforthefirsttime(US101.25 billion in FY 2025-26).
• Committed to doubling bilateral trade to US$200 billion by 2032.

Trade, Investment and Energy Cooperation

Investment Ties:

• Bilateral Investment Treaty signed in February 2024; entered into effect from August 31, 2024.
• Cumulative FDI from UAE into India: US$25.19 billion (April 2000 to March 2025), making UAE the seventh-largest overseas investor in India.
• UAE’s Sovereign Wealth Funds have a strong presence in India (real estate, infrastructure, energy, private equity, financial services).
• Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system enables trade and remittances in INR and AED, reducing dollar dependence and transaction costs.

Energy Trade:

• In FY 2024-25, UAE was India’s:
  • Fourth largest source of crude oil.
  • Third largest source of LNG.
  • Largest supplier of LPG.
  • Second largest export destination for India’s finished petroleum products.
• UAE is the only country participating in India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve programme.

Defence and Maritime Cooperation

Defence Cooperation:

• Joint Defence Co-operation Committee (JDCC) at Ministry level.
• MoU on Defence Cooperation signed in June 2003.
• Annual Service (Army, Naval, Air) Staff Talks to discuss security and defence cooperation.

Maritime Infrastructure:

• MoU between Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and Drydocks World (DDW) for setting up Ship Repair Cluster at Vadinar, Gujarat.
  • Boosts shipping, port, and coastal infrastructure.
  • Strengthens India’s position as a maritime and logistics hub.
  • Advances Make in India initiative.
• MoU between CSL, DDW, and Centre of Excellence in Maritime & Shipbuilding (CEMS) on Skill Development in Ship Repair.
  • Strengthens capabilities of Indian maritime workforce.
  • Supports Skill India Mission.
  • Creates future-ready workforce for global maritime industry.

Strategic Energy Agreements

Outcome 1: MoU between Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC):

• Strengthens India’s energy security through deeper hydrocarbon cooperation.
• Enhances Strategic Petroleum Reserves framework.
• Improves resilience against global supply disruptions and energy market volatility.
• Creates opportunities in LNG and LPG storage infrastructure.

Outcome 2: Strategic Collaboration Agreement between Indian Oil Limited (IOCL) and ADNOC on LPG supplies:

• Strengthens India’s long-term LPG supply security.
• Ensures stable and reliable energy source for domestic demand.
• Reinforces UAE’s position as one of India’s most trusted energy partners.

Technology and Supercomputing

Outcome: Term Sheet for setting up 8 Exaflop Super Computing Cluster in partnership between C-DAC (India) and G-42 (UAE):

• Accelerates India’s sovereign AI and high-performance computing capabilities.
• Strengthens supercomputing infrastructure.
• Boosts IndiaAI Mission.
• Supports digital innovation, AI research, and next-generation technological development.

Strategic Defence Partnership Framework

Outcome: Framework for the Strategic Defence Partnership:

• Strengthens defence industrial cooperation.
• Encourages joint partnerships, co-development, and greater industry engagement.
• Promotes innovation and technology sharing in strategic sectors.
• Supports cooperation in advanced defence manufacturing and capabilities.
• Expected to enhance national and regional security cooperation.

Investment Commitments and People-to-People Ties

Investment Commitments:

• Strengthen economic and financial cooperation.
• Boost investments in India’s infrastructure and banking sectors.
• Enhance long-term capital flows and investor confidence.
• Support India’s economic development and infrastructure expansion goals.

People-to-People Ties:

• Indians constitute the largest group of expatriates in the UAE.
• They form the backbone of the UAE economy and society.
• Diaspora remains a consistent source of remittance to India, positively impacting forex reserves.

Conclusion

India-UAE merchandise trade crossed US$101.25 billion in FY 2025–26, with a target of US$200 billion by 2032. The United Arab Emirates is India’s seventh-largest investor, with cumulative FDI of US$25.19 billion, while the Local Currency Settlement system reduces dollar dependence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s May 2026 visit strengthened cooperation in energy security, defence, maritime infrastructure, AI, supercomputing, skill development, and long-term investment, making the partnership increasingly future-oriented.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

1. India-UAE ties have expanded beyond trade into energy, defence, and technology. Examine the significance of the 2026 Prime Ministerial visit for India’s energy security and technological ambitions. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2261611&reg=3&lang=1

https://www.mea.gov.in/Portal/ForeignRelation/India_UAE2024n.pdf

GS Paper III – Infrastructure (Water Resources) | GS Paper III – Disaster Management | GS Paper II – Governance
Dam Safety; Ageing Infrastructure; Rehabilitation Projects; Institutional Framework

Introduction

India has 6,628 large dams, with over 26% older than 50 years, highlighting the need for rehabilitation and safety upgrades. The Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) and the Dam Safety Act, 2021 strengthen dam safety through inspection, maintenance, and disaster prevention, while digital platforms like DHARMA and Early Warning Systems enhance real-time monitoring.

Main Body

Status of Dams in India

Scale and Distribution:

• India ranks third globally with 6,628 specified dams.
• 6,545 dams are operational; 83 are under construction.
• Gross water storage capacity: approximately 330 billion cubic metres.
• These dams are critical for national food, energy, and water security.

Age Profile:

• Over 26% (1,681 dams) are more than 50 years old.
• 291 dams are more than 100 years old.
• About 42% fall within the 25–50 years age bracket.
• India’s oldest dam, Kallanai (Grand Anicut) in Tamil Nadu, has functioned for nearly 2,000 years.

Ownership Pattern:

• 98.5% (6,448 dams) are owned by State Governments.
• Central Public Sector Undertakings: 49 dams (0.7%).
• Private entities: 36 dams (0.6%).
• Central Government: 12 dams (0.2%).

State-wise Distribution:

• Maharashtra has the highest number of specified dams, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Odisha.

Sedimentation Challenge:

• Analysis of 439 reservoirs (CWC data) shows average 19% loss of gross storage capacity.
• Average reservoir age: 42 years.
• Average annual loss of storage: 0.74% (about 1.81 MCM per reservoir per year).

Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP)

DRIP Phase I (2012–2021):

• Launched in April 2012 with World Bank support.
• Covered 223 dams across seven states: Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Uttarakhand.
• Rehabilitation and modernisation of dam structures completed.
• Dam safety inspections and evaluations conducted.
• Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) developed.
• Capacity building and training programmes implemented.
• Dam Health and Rehabilitation Monitoring Application (DHARMA) introduced.

DRIP Phase II and III (2021 onwards):

• Operationalised in October 2021.
• Co-financed by World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
• Total project outlay: ₹10,211 crore (Phase II: ₹5,107 crore; Phase III: ₹5,104 crore).
• External loan: ₹7,000 crore; State and central agencies share: ₹3,211 crore.
• Duration: 10 years (each phase six years with two years overlap).
• Rehabilitation proposals for 191 dams (₹5,053 crore) approved.
• Total expenditure up to March 31, 2025: ₹2,225 crore.
• Major physical rehabilitation works completed at 43 dams.

Coverage of DRIP Phases II and III:

• 736 dams across 19 states and three central agencies (CWC, Bhakra Beas Management Board, Damodar Valley Corporation).
• Major dams covered: Bhakra Dam (Himachal Pradesh), Ranjit Sagar Dam (Punjab), NTR Sagar and Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Telangana), Gandhi Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh), Kadana (Gujarat), Jirgo Dam (Uttar Pradesh), Imphal barrage (Manipur), Myntdu Leshka Dam (Meghalaya), Silabati Barrage and Gayathri Dam (West Bengal).

Four Components of DRIP Phases II and III:

• Rehabilitation of dams and associated structures to improve safety and performance.
• Institutional strengthening to enhance dam safety systems at state and central levels.
• Revenue generation measures to support sustainable operation and maintenance.
• Project management for effective implementation.

Institutional Framework: Dam Safety Act, 2021

Key Provisions:

• Came into force on December 30, 2021.
• Provides comprehensive framework for surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of specified dams.
• A “specified dam” refers to a dam more than 15 metres in height, or between 10 and 15 metres if it satisfies prescribed technical criteria.
• Compliance with provisions is now a statutory obligation of dam owners with definite timelines.

Four-Tier Institutional Mechanism:

• National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS): Apex body responsible for formulating policies and recommending regulations. Has held eleven meetings since its constitution in February 2022.
• National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA): Regulatory and implementing arm.
• State Committees on Dam Safety (SCDS): State-level policy bodies.
• State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSO): Responsible for surveillance, inspection, and compliance at state level. All 31 dam-owning States have constituted SDSO.

Key Safety Provisions Mandated by the Act:

• Regular inspections (pre-monsoon and post-monsoon).
• Installation of instrumentation systems.
• Comprehensive dam safety evaluations.
• Risk Assessment Studies.
• Inflow Forecasting and Early Warning Systems.
• Integrated Operation of Reservoirs.
• Hazard Potential assessment.
• Preparation of Operation & Maintenance Manual and Emergency Action Plans (EAPs).
• Obligation on dam owners to allocate adequate funds for maintenance and repairs.

Key Achievements under the Act:

• Registration of all 6,628 specified dams on DHARMA platform.
• Launch of DHARMA web-based platform and mobile application for dam safety monitoring.
• Conduct of about 13,000 dam inspections annually, with digital records.
• Rapid Risk Screening of specified dams using web-based assessment tool; completed for 5,553 specified dams.
• Publication of 20 regulations in the Official Gazette under the Act.
• Establishment of the National Centre for Earthquake Safety of Dams at MNIT Jaipur.

Mandatory Inspections and Classification

Inspection Regime:

• Dam owners mandated to carry out pre-monsoon and post-monsoon inspections (regulation notified on April 24, 2024).

Classification of Dams:

• Category I: Critical deficiencies that may lead to failure if not addressed.
• Category II: Major deficiencies requiring prompt remedial action.
• Category III: Minor or no deficiencies.

2025 Inspection Results:

• Category I: 3 dams.
• Category II: 188 dams.
• Suitable remedial measures being taken by dam owners in a time-bound manner.

Capacity Building and Centres of Excellence

Centres of Excellence on Dam Safety:

• IIT Roorkee: Focus on Seismic Hazard Mapping and Reservoir Sedimentation.
• IISc Bangalore: Focus on Comprehensive Risk Assessment of dams, advanced construction and rehabilitation, and material testing for dams.
• National Centre for Earthquake Safety of Dams at MNIT Jaipur.

Academic Programmes:

• M. Tech Programme on Dam Safety started at IIT Roorkee and IISc Bengaluru from 2021-22.

Offences and Penalties

Chapter X of the Dam Safety Act, 2021:

• Punishment for obstruction or refusal to comply with directions: imprisonment up to one year, or fine, or both.
• If such obstruction or refusal results in loss of lives or imminent danger: imprisonment up to two years.

Conclusion

India, home to 6,628 specified dams, faces growing safety concerns as over 26% are more than 50 years old. DRIP Phases I–III and the Dam Safety Act, 2021 strengthen rehabilitation, monitoring, and regulation through institutions like NDSA and digital platforms such as DHARMA. Annual inspections and technical support from institutions like Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee and Indian Institute of Science aim to improve dam safety, though effective large-scale implementation remains crucial.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

1. India’s ageing dams pose growing safety and storage challenges. Examine the role of DRIP and the Dam Safety Act, 2021 in strengthening dam safety, and discuss the key challenges in rehabilitation and monitoring. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/centre-modernising-736-dams-under-rs-10211-crore-rehabilitation-programme/articleshow/131138622.cms?from=mdr