Syllabus:

• Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT

Context: At a time when ties between Europe and the United States are facing great pressure, a large delegation of European Commission College of Commissioners is in New Delhi for a two-day visit.

Background: –

• The visit of the College of Commissioners marks a significant new phase in bilateral relations, as India and the EU enter the third decade of their Strategic Partnership.

Key takeaways

• India established diplomatic relations with the European Economic Community — the first pillar of the future European Union — back in 1962.
• The multi-tier institutional architecture of cooperation has been presided over by the India-EU Summits, 15 of which have been held so far. The first Summit was held in Lisbon in 2000, and the bilateral relationship was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership at the 5th Summit in The Hague in 2004.
• The India-EU Strategic Partnership: A Roadmap to 2025, was adopted at the last India-EU Summit in 2020.

Trade and investments

• India and the EU have been negotiating a Free Trade Agreement for the last decade and a half. The economic argument for an agreement is strong: the EU is India’s largest trading partner in goods, and bilateral trade has increased 90% over the past decade.
• Bilateral trade in goods was $135 billion in FY 2023-24, with Indian exports to the EU accounting for $76 billion and imports for $59 billion. Bilateral trade in services in 2023 stood at $53 billion, comprising Indian exports of $30 billion and imports of $23 billion.
• Cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows from the EU during the period April 2000 to September 2024 was $117.4 billion, which represented 16.6% of the total FDI equity inflow. Indian FDI outflows to the EU are valued at approximately $40.04 billion for the period April 2000 to March 2024.

Technology cooperation

• Bilateral science and technology cooperation is carried out within the framework of the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement of 2007. 
• The India-EU Intent of Cooperation in High Performance Computing (HPC) was signed in 2022, and in 2023, the two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding on semiconductor R&D cooperation.

Green energy solutions

• Established in 2016, the EU-India Clean Energy and Climate Partnership (CECP) promotes access to and dissemination of clean energy and climate-friendly technologies.
• The European Investment Bank has committed to supporting Indian hydrogen projects with funding of 1 billion euros. 
• Indian and European companies are collaborating in the renewable and hydrogen sectors with the aim of developing a green hydrogen ecosystem in India by 2030.

People-to-people ties

• The growing Indian diaspora in the EU contains large numbers of students, researchers, and skilled professionals. Indian professionals received the largest share — more than 20% — of EU Blue Cards issued in 2023-24.
• Over the last 20 years, more than 6,000 Erasmus scholarships have been awarded to Indian students. More than 2,700 Indian researchers have been funded by Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (part of the EU’s research and innovation programme Horizon Europe) since 2014 — the most in the world.

Defence and space

• India and the EU are strengthening their defence cooperation, specially in maritime security and the Indo-Pacific region under ESIWA+ security programme. This is crucial in the context of China’s aggressive policies.
• The first joint naval exercises were held in 2023 in the Gulf of Guinea. The two sides have stepped up cooperation on global security, natural disasters, piracy, and counter-terrorism.

Source: Indian Express

Syllabus:

• Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, HISTORY

Context: National Science Day is celebrated on February 28 to mark the contribution of Indian scientists to society’s development. In 1986, the India Government designated this day to commemorate the announcement of the discovery of the “Raman Effect.” CV Raman discovered the Raman effect on February 28, 1928, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930.

Background: –

• On the occasion of National Science Day, a look at the significant contribution of ancient India in the field of science is essential.

Key takeaways

• The Indian origin of Zero: In the 6th and 7th Century C.E. Indian mathematician Brahmagupta was the first to clearly define zero (as what remains when a number is subtracted from itself) and explore all its properties. He also invented negative numbers as a concept.
• Decimal system of numerals: Decimal system was discoved by Indians. Even the Arabs themselves called mathematics “the Indian (art)” (hindisat).
• The atomic theory of Kanad: The sixth-century scientist of Vaisheshika School, Kanad had given his atomic theory that the material universe is made up of kanas, (anu/atom) which cannot be seen through any human organ. These cannot be further subdivided. Thus, they are indivisible and indestructible. This is similar to the modern atomic theory.
• Earthquake cloud theory: Varahamihira in his book Brhat Samhita has devoted a chapter on signs of earthquakes. He has tried to relate earthquakes to the influence of planets, undersea activities, underground water, unusual cloud formation, and abnormal behaviour of animals.
• Position of nine planets: Aryabhata was the first mathematician who discovered the position of nine planets and mentioned that they revolve around the sun. The mathematician has made a huge contribution to the place value system.
• Cyclic Method to solve algebraic equations: Bhaskaracharya in his book Siddanta Shiromani has introduced the Chakrawat Method or the Cyclic Method to solve algebraic equations.
• Medicine: Charak in his book Charak Samhita had given a description of a large number of diseases and gives methods of identifying their causes as well as the method of their treatment. He was the first who emphasise that digestion, metabolism, and immunity are important for health.
• Metallurgy:  The Iron Pillar of Delhi stands as evidence of ancient India’s advanced metallurgical knowledge, particularly in corrosion resistance. Wootz steel, primarily iron with a high proportion of carbon, is known for high durability and strength has originated in India.
• Surgery: Sushruta is often referred to as the “Father of Surgery”. His works have immensely contributed to the field of surgery, especially cosmetic surgery. His work in the book “Sushruta Samhita” reflects his mastery of surgical techniques and human anatomy.
• Yoga: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjal has systematically presented the science of Yoga.

Source: Indian Express

Syllabus:

• Mains – GS 2 

Context: A panel constituted by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has recommended “exemplary penalties” for proven cases of proxy leadership as a measure to curb the practice of ‘Pradhan Pati’, ‘Sarpanch Pati’ or ‘Mukhiya Pati’ in Gram Panchayats across the country.

Background:

• India has about 2.63 lakh panchayats in all three tiers – Gram Panchayat (at village level), Panchayat Samiti (at block level) and Zila Parishad (at district level) – with 32.29 lakh elected representatives, of which 15.03 lakh (46.6 per cent) are women. 
• While the ratio of Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in panchayats have increased, their effective participation in the decision-making process is low.

Key takeaways

• The report titled ‘Transforming Women’s Representation and Roles in Panchayati Raj Systems and Institutions: Eliminating Efforts for Proxy Participation’ has recommended a slew of measures to end proxy leadership.
• Initiatives such as gender-exclusive quotas in panchayat subject committees and ward-level committees (like Kerala); an annual award for Anti-Pradhan Pati champions; appointing women’s ombudspersons; public swearing-in of women pradhans; creating federation of women panchayat leaders; and setting up gender resource centres for leadership training, legal advice, and support networks are recommended.
• The committee also suggested technological solutions like virtual reality simulation training, integrating AI-powered query-driven replies to provide real-time legal and governance guidance to WERs in vernacular languages, creating WhatsApp groups of WERs linked with panchayat and block officials to help resolve day-to-day problems, and using the ministry’s Panchayat Nirnay Portal to allow citizens to track elected pradhans’ participation in meetings and decisions.
• It also suggested accountability and oversight mechanisms, which include helplines and women watchdog committees for confidential complaints about proxy leadership, with whistleblower rewards in verified cases.

Source: Indian Express

Syllabus:

• Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT

Context: World leaders at 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Rome have reached a historic agreement on financing global conservation goals.

Background: –

• The conference, which had been paused in Cali, Colombia, in 2024, resumed in Rome on February 25, 2025, where officials finalised the agreement after intense negotiations.

Key takeaways

• The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international treaty established to promote the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. 
• The CBD was opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and entered into force on December 29, 1993. 
• As of now, it has been ratified by 196 parties, including 195 countries and the European Union, making it one of the most widely adopted international environmental agreements.
• The CBD has three main objectives, often referred to as the “three pillars” of the Convention:
  • Conservation of Biological Diversity: To protect ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity from threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and invasive species.
  • Sustainable Use of Biological Resources: To ensure that the use of biological resources (e.g., forests, fisheries, and wildlife) is sustainable and does not lead to their depletion or degradation.
  • Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from Genetic Resources: To ensure that the benefits derived from the use of genetic resources (e.g., for medicines, agriculture, or biotechnology) are shared fairly and equitably with the countries and communities that provide these resources.

Supplementary Agreements under the CBD:

• Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (2003): Focuses on the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology. It aims to protect biodiversity from potential risks posed by genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing (2010): Provides a legal framework for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. It ensures that communities providing genetic resources receive compensation and recognition.
• Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (2022): Adopted at the COP15 in Montreal, this framework sets ambitious targets for 2030 and 2050 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. Key goals include protecting 30% of land and oceans, restoring degraded ecosystems, and mobilizing financial resources for biodiversity conservation.

Source: Down To Earth

Syllabus:

• Prelims – CURRENT EVENT

Context: The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) marked its 20th anniversary of entry into force on 27 February 2025.

Background: –

• In alignment with the WHO FCTC’s objectives, the Indian government enacted the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act (COTPA) in 2003.

Key takeaways

• The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) is a landmark international treaty adopted in 2003 to combat the global tobacco epidemic. 
• It aims to protect present and future generations from the devastating health, social, environmental, and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke. 
• The Convention is the first ever public health treaty negotiated under the auspices of WHO.  It came into effect on 27 February 2005 and currently there are 183 Parties covering some 90 per cent of the global population.
• India signed the treaty on September 10, 2003, and ratified it on February 5, 2004, becoming the seventh country to do so.

Key Objectives:

• Protect Public Health: Reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke.
• Provide a Framework: Offer comprehensive strategies and guidelines for tobacco control policies at national, regional, and international levels.
• Core Provisions:
  • Demand Reduction Measures:
    • Price and Taxation Policies: Encourage higher taxes on tobacco products to reduce consumption.
    • Non-Price Measures: Implement bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship; mandate prominent health warnings on packaging; and ensure public awareness campaigns about the risks of tobacco use.
  • Supply Reduction Measures:
    • Illicit Trade: Adopt measures to eliminate illicit production and smuggling of tobacco products.
    • Sales to Minors: Prohibit sales of tobacco products to individuals under the legal age.
    • Support for Alternative Livelihoods: Assist tobacco workers and growers in transitioning to economically viable alternative activities.

Source: UN News

Q1.) Which of the following is NOT a key objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)?

A) Conservation of biological diversity

B) Sustainable use of biological resources

C) Fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources

D) Promoting the use of genetically modified crops worldwide

Q2.) The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) primarily aims to:

A) Promote the global trade of tobacco products

B) Protect present and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco consumption

C) Encourage the advertising of tobacco to increase awareness

D) Support the cultivation of tobacco for economic growth

Q3.) Which ancient Indian scholar is known as the “Father of Surgery” and contributed significantly to the field of surgical techniques and human anatomy?

A) Charaka
B) Sushruta
C) Aryabhata
D) Brahmagupta

Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!!

ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs

Q.1) – a

Q.2) – a

Q.3) – c