19 July 2025 Daily Current Affairs

1. Swachh Survekshan 2024–25: Ahmedabad Crowned India’s Cleanest City

Context: In a remarkable turn in India’s cleanliness journey, Ahmedabad has secured the No. 1 position as India’s cleanest city in the prestigious Swachh Survekshan 2024–25, conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

This is the first time Ahmedabad has claimed the top spot, marking a significant milestone in its urban sanitation journey. Meanwhile, former six-time champion Indore has been elevated to the newly created elite category — Swachh Bharat Super League 1.0 — acknowledging cities that have demonstrated sustained excellence in cleanliness and innovation over the years.

About Swachh Survekshan: The World’s Largest Urban Sanitation Survey

Launched in 2016 under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U), Swachh Survekshan has grown into the largest urban cleanliness assessment globally, aimed at driving healthy competition among cities to improve sanitation standards.

The 2024–25 edition witnessed a record-breaking participation:

• 4,500+ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) assessed
• Over 12 crore citizen feedbacks
• Evaluation based on parameters such as:
  • Citizen engagement and satisfaction
  • Waste segregation and scientific processing
  • ODF (Open Defecation-Free) status
  • Clean public spaces
  • Digital monitoring and municipal innovation

Top Rankings: Who Made It to the Cleanest Cities List?

Cleanest Cities (Population over 1 lakh):

1. Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
2. Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
3. Surat (Gujarat)

Indore, having topped the rankings for six consecutive years, now leads the Swachh Bharat Super League 1.0, a new league recognizing long-term cleanliness champions.

Cleanest Ganga Towns:

• Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) – Cleanest Ganga town for the 4th year in a row
• Prayagraj and Bijnor also ranked among the top three

Cleanest Cities (Population under 1 lakh):

• Sasvad (Maharashtra) – Cleanest small city
• Followed by Lonavala and Vita

State Rankings: Maharashtra Leads, Gujarat and MP Close Behind

• Maharashtra emerged as the best-performing state overall
• Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh took the second and third spots respectively

Gujarat’s Clean Sweep: A Model of Urban Sanitation

Gujarat’s urban performance was exceptional, with Ahmedabad, Surat, and Rajkot all securing places in the Top 10 cleanest cities. The state’s success was powered by:

• 100% scientific waste processing
• Door-to-door garbage collection in every ward
• Effective use of citizen apps for grievance redressal
• Strong public awareness campaigns and community-led initiatives

Ahmedabad’s rise to the top is the result of consistent municipal planning, investment in infrastructure, and citizen engagement platforms.

Innovations Introduced in Swachh Survekshan 2024–25: This year’s survey saw several new elements to enhance transparency and inclusivity:

• AI-based validation tools to assess real-time cleanliness
• Introduction of the Swachhta League to boost youth participation
• Special focus on legacy waste management and urban beautification
• Real-time data tracking through Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs)
• Updated Star Ratings for Garbage-Free Cities (GFC) integrated into the rankings

Beyond Rankings: Special Recognitions

Several cities and institutions were honored for exceptional performance in specific categories:

• Cleanest Cantonment Board: Mhow (Madhya Pradesh)
• Best Innovation in Sanitation: Navi Mumbai (for circular economy practices)
• Best Citizen Feedback Response: Chandigarh
• Cleanest State Capital: Bhopal

Swachh Survekshan’s Broader Impact on Urban Governance:

Beyond being a cleanliness competition, Swachh Survekshan has become a transformative governance tool that:

• Institutionalizes waste segregation and recycling
• Encourages innovation through public-private partnerships
• Promotes behavioural change and civic responsibility
• Spurs entrepreneurship in the circular economy
• Creates green jobs in sanitation and waste management sectors

India’s sanitation movement is no longer about cleaning streets—it’s about building smarter, healthier, and more inclusive cities.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Urban Sanitation?

As India advances towards its goal of becoming Garbage-Free, initiatives like Swachh Survekshan, combined with digital governance, smart infrastructure, and community participation, are proving to be vital.

The elevation of cities like Indore to a super league, and Ahmedabad’s rise to No.1, showcase the power of sustained effort, innovation, and civic pride.

With climate change and urban expansion posing new challenges, the next frontier in cleanliness will be:

• Zero-waste cities
• Waste-to-energy innovation
• Smart landfill management
• Green infrastructure and circular economy models

India is not just cleaning its cities—it is reimagining urban living for the 21st century.

2. Akash Prime Missile: India’s Upgraded Air Defence Triumph in High-Altitude Warfare

Context: In a major advancement for India’s air defence capabilities, the Akash Prime missile successfully intercepted and destroyed two high-speed aerial targets in the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh. This achievement marks a critical step forward in safeguarding India’s borders, especially in strategically sensitive mountainous regions.

What is Akash Prime? A Next-Gen Shield for the Skies

Akash Prime is the enhanced variant of the original Akash surface-to-air missile system, specifically tailored for deployment in high-altitude and sub-zero environments. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Akash Prime is part of India’s broader push to modernize its indigenous air defence systems.

Key Features of Akash Prime Missile:

• Category: Medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM)
• Target Range: Capable of engaging aerial threats at 25–30 km
• Altitude Readiness: Optimized for operations above 4,500 metres — ideal for locations like Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh
• Improved Targeting: Equipped with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker for enhanced precision during the terminal phase of interception
• All-Weather Capability: Designed to perform efficiently in low temperatures and harsh climatic conditions
• Versatile Protection: Offers a shield for static, semi-mobile, and mobile military installations against aircraft, drones, and other aerial threats

Why Akash Prime Matters for National Security:

The Akash Prime missile fills a crucial gap in India’s air defence matrix, particularly in high-altitude regions where traditional systems often underperform. Key strategic benefits include:

• Real-time responsiveness against fast-moving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and fighter jets
• Indigenous manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing dependence on foreign defence systems
• Cost-effectiveness compared to imported missile systems while retaining advanced capability
• Quick-deployment capability for forward bases and critical infrastructure protection

Feedback-Driven Innovation: Built for the Battlefield

Akash Prime’s upgrades were developed in close consultation with the Indian Armed Forces, ensuring that real battlefield requirements are addressed. Its performance in Ladakh proves its readiness to defend vital military posts, communication hubs, and airfields located at extreme altitudes.

Did You Know?

• The original Akash missile has been in service since 2007, with deployment across the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
• The Akash system can engage multiple targets simultaneously using its powerful multi-target tracking radar.
• The Akash Prime variant enhances system reliability and lethality, specifically against new-age threats like loitering munitions and low-RCS (Radar Cross Section) drones.

Looking Ahead: Fortifying India’s Air Defence Layer

With emerging threats from drones, cruise missiles, and enemy aircraft, India’s focus on layered air defence is more critical than ever. The success of Akash Prime reflects:

• A growing emphasis on self-reliance in defence technology
• A shift toward terrain-specific adaptations in military systems
• Reinforcement of India’s deterrence posture in border zones, especially against adversaries with growing aerial capabilities

As India moves to secure its skies, systems like Akash Prime will play a vital role in shielding the nation’s sovereignty at the most vulnerable and high-risk frontiers.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s Majestic Peak and the World’s Tallest Free-Standing Mountain

Context: In a recent event held at South Block, New Delhi, the Defence Secretary of India officially flagged off mountaineering expeditions to both Mount Everest and Mount Kilimanjaro, highlighting the importance of high-altitude endurance missions for national pride and military readiness. This move aims to inspire adventure, resilience, and leadership among the expedition teams.

Mount Kilimanjaro: The Pride of Africa

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northeastern Tanzania, stands as Africa’s highest peak and holds the distinction of being the world’s tallest free-standing mountain—meaning it rises alone and is not part of any mountain range.

• Elevation: Approximately 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level
• Geographical Span: Stretches about 80 km (50 miles) east to west
• Location: Close to the Kenya-Tanzania border, northeast of the African continent

Volcanic Structure: A Trio of Cones

Kilimanjaro is classified as a stratovolcano and is composed of three distinct volcanic cones:

• Kibo – the tallest and still dormant, home to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
• Mawenzi – rugged and deeply eroded, extinct
• Shira – the oldest cone, now extinct and largely collapsed

Uhuru Peak, perched atop Kibo, is the final summit destination for most climbers and symbolizes the “Roof of Africa.”

Diverse Ecosystems: A Journey Through Climate Zones

One of the most fascinating aspects of Kilimanjaro is its distinct ecological zones, which change dramatically as one ascends:

1. Lower Slopes – cultivated farmland and grassland
2. Montane Forest – lush, tropical rainforests rich in wildlife
3. Heath and Moorland – dotted with unique alpine plants
4. Alpine Desert – dry, windy, and barren terrain
5. Summit Zone – icy, with glaciers and snow-capped peaks

This environmental variation makes Kilimanjaro a microcosm of Earth’s biodiversity—from tropical forests to Arctic-like conditions in a single trek.

World Heritage Recognition:

In 1987, Kilimanjaro National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty, ecological significance, and cultural value. The park attracts tens of thousands of climbers and nature lovers annually and is a vital part of Tanzania’s eco-tourism economy.

Did You Know? Fascinating Facts About Mount Kilimanjaro

• The name “Kilimanjaro” is believed to mean “Mountain of Light” or “Shining Mountain”, though its exact origin is debated.
• It is often referred to as “Everyman’s Everest” because it requires no technical climbing skills, yet is still physically demanding.
• The glaciers at the summit are rapidly shrinking due to climate change, and scientists warn they could disappear within decades.

A Symbol of Challenge and Triumph:Mount Kilimanjaro is more than just a geological wonder—it is a symbol of endurance, unity, and natural grandeur. From scientific research to spiritual journeys, and from ecological conservation to adventure tourism, Kilimanjaro stands tall as a global icon.

4. India’s Clean Energy Paradox: Over 50% Installed Capacity, But Less Than 30% Power Generation

Context: India has crossed a significant clean energy benchmark by achieving over 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, five years ahead of its 2030 target under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). However, this success comes with a stark contrast—renewable sources contribute less than 30% to actual electricity generation.

This disparity underscores the challenge of turning installed capacity into real-world output and highlights the need to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and grid integration of renewable power.

India’s Renewable Energy Growth: A Snapshot

Record-Breaking Expansion in 2024–25:

• Total Renewable Energy (RE) Capacity: Reached 220.10 GW by March 2025 (up from 198.75 GW).
• Annual Addition: 29.52 GW, the highest ever in a single fiscal year.

Solar Power Leads the Way:

• Installed Capacity: 105.65 GW
• New Addition: 23.83 GW, a sharp jump from 15.03 GW the previous year.

Steady Growth in Wind Energy:

• Installed Capacity: 50.04 GW
• New Addition: 4.15 GW, improving from 3.25 GW last year.

Other Sources:

• Bioenergy: 11.58 GW, including 0.53 GW from off-grid and waste-to-energy.
• Small Hydro: 5.10 GW, with 0.44 GW under construction.

Pipeline and Emerging Technologies:

• Projects Under Implementation: 169.40 GW
• Projects Tendered: 65.06 GW
• Hybrid & Round-the-Clock (RTC) Projects: 65.29 GW, including solar-wind hybrids, peaking power, and RE-thermal bundling.

Global Standing:

According to the REN21 Renewables 2024 Global Status Report, India ranks:

• 4th globally in total renewable energy installed capacity
• 4th in wind energy
• 5th in solar power

Top Performing States: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka continue to lead in renewable capacity deployment.

The Challenge: Why Low Output Despite High Capacity?

1. Low Capacity Utilisation Factor (CUF): Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are intermittent and weather-dependent, which limits their actual power output despite large installed capacities.

• Solar CUF: ~20%
• Wind CUF: ~25–30%
• Coal CUF: ~60%
• Nuclear CUF: ~80%

2. Coal Still Dominates the Base Load:  Coal supplies over 75% of India’s electricity demand, especially during night hours or non-sunny days, due to lack of reliable storage and RTC power from renewables.
3. Inadequate Energy Storage & Grid Integration:

• Battery storage capacity is not yet sufficient to store excess daytime solar.
• Transmission systems have not expanded at the same pace as RE deployment, leading to bottlenecks.

4. Time-Insensitive Tariffs: India lacks time-of-day (ToD) pricing, meaning there’s no incentive for consumers to use power when solar generation peaks, making RE less effective.

5. Land and Regulatory Barriers:

• Land acquisition delays for large-scale projects
• Slow clearances for hybrid and storage-based projects

Why Boosting Clean Energy Output Is Critical:

1. Energy Security: India’s energy demand is expected to double by 2040. Low RE output will intensify reliance on coal, affecting long-term sustainability.
2. Climate Commitments: India has committed to:

• 50% installed capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 (already met)
• 45% reduction in emissions intensity from 2005 levels

However, current generation share of clean energy (~28%) is insufficient to meet actual carbon reduction goals.

3. Air Quality & Public Health: Coal-based generation is a major contributor to air pollution—India is home to 13 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities. Reducing coal dependency is vital for public health.
4. Economic Efficiency: Underperforming RE assets result in:

• Poor return on investment for developers
• Higher costs and financial stress for DISCOMs
• Slower transition to green jobs and sustainable industries

Key Government Interventions to Improve Utilisation:

Green Energy Corridor (GEC): Expands and strengthens transmission infrastructure to efficiently evacuate renewable energy from generation sites to consumption centres.

PM-KUSUM Scheme: Promotes solar-powered pumps and grid-connected solar farms in rural areas, reducing diesel dependence and supporting farm-based decentralised energy systems.

National Green Hydrogen Mission: Encourages production and use of green hydrogen, especially in industries like fertilisers, steel, and oil refining, reducing their fossil fuel footprint.

PLI Schemes for Solar and Battery Storage: Provides financial incentives to domestic manufacturers of solar PV modules and battery energy storage systems, fostering self-reliance.

Renewable Energy Hybrid Policy: Promotes co-located solar and wind projects, increasing CUF and reliability through hybrid generation.

What Needs to Be Done: The Road Ahead

1. Grid Modernisation:

• Invest in smart grids and real-time balancing systems
• Implement time-of-day pricing to encourage solar consumption during peak generation

2. Strengthen Energy Storage:

• Accelerate deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
• Support with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and PLI schemes

3. Scale Up Hybrid Projects: Encourage solar-wind-hydro-storage combinations for round-the-clock green power, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
4. Expand Decentralised RE: Boost rooftop solar, solar water pumps, and mini-grids to reduce grid dependency and enhance energy access in remote areas.
5. Reform Tariff and Market Design: 

• Introduce differential tariffs for peak and off-peak hours
• Facilitate green energy trading on energy exchanges
• Promote open access for industries seeking clean power

6. Land and Transmission Reforms:

• Launch a national land portal for RE projects
• Synchronise transmission expansion with RE project timelines

7. Provide Policy Stability: Ensure long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
   Mitigate risks for DISCOMs through payment security mechanisms like tripartite agreements

Conclusion: The Future of Clean Energy in India

India has made tremendous progress in renewable capacity addition, but to truly transition to a sustainable energy future, utilisation must match capacity. The challenge now is not just building renewable infrastructure—but optimising, integrating, and scaling it smartly.With the right mix of policy, technology, market reform, and infrastructure investment, India can shift from being a clean energy leader in installed capacity to a global model in clean energy delivery and climate leadership.

5. Cabinet Clears ‘Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana’: A New Era for Agriculture Transformation

Context: In a major boost to India’s agricultural sector, the Union Cabinet has approved the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY)—a comprehensive and first-of-its-kind national programme exclusively targeting agriculture and allied activities. Set to run for six years starting 2025–26, this scheme draws inspiration from the Aspirational Districts Programme of NITI Aayog.

Key Highlights of PM Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana

• Total Financial Outlay: 24,000 crore per year
• Duration: 6 years (2025–26 to 2030–31)
• Coverage: 100 identified districts, including at least one from every State and Union Territory
• Target Group: Around 1.7 crore farmers across India

This scheme is designed to transform underperforming agricultural regions by addressing low productivity, low cropping intensity, and limited credit access—the three main criteria for selecting the focus districts.

A Unique Model of Convergence:

The scheme will function through a convergent approach, pooling resources from:

• 36 existing Central Government schemes
• 11 Union Ministries/Departments
• State government schemes
• Private sector investments

This creates a multi-stakeholder, mission-driven model with cross-sectoral collaboration aimed at holistic rural development.

Core Objectives of the Scheme:

The Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana aims to:

• Boost agricultural productivity using modern and climate-resilient practices
• Encourage crop diversification to reduce monoculture dependence
• Promote sustainable farming, including organic and natural methods
• Improve irrigation infrastructure, especially in water-stressed districts
• Enhance storage and warehousing at block and panchayat levels to reduce post-harvest losses
• Expand access to credit, both long-term and short-term, to empower small and marginal farmers

Implementation Framework:

District-Level Agricultural Plan:

Each district will formulate a District Agriculture and Allied Activities Plan (DAAAP), tailored to local challenges and agro-climatic conditions.

• These plans will be vetted by the District Dhan-Dhanya Committee.
• Guidance and evaluation will be provided by NITI Aayog, which will act as the central think tank for the programme.

Monitoring Mechanism:

To ensure transparency and accountability:

• A real-time dashboard will track progress using 117 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Monthly reviews will be conducted at district, state, and national levels
• A Central Nodal Officer will be appointed for each district for close monitoring and reporting

Why This Scheme Is a Game Changer:

India’s agriculture employs over 50% of the workforce, yet its contribution to GDP remains around 16–18%, highlighting productivity challenges. The PM-DDKY bridges this gap by:

• Focusing on region-specific interventions
• Combining financial and technical support
• Strengthening infrastructure at grassroots levels
• Encouraging institutional credit and private investment

Additional Insight: Learning from the Aspirational Districts Programme

Just like the Aspirational Districts Programme improved human development indicators in backward regions through targeted action and data-driven governance, PM-DDKY seeks to do the same for agriculture—bringing precision governance to farming.

Conclusion: Sowing the Seeds of Agricultural Transformation

The Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana represents a paradigm shift in how India addresses agricultural development. By aligning government schemes, empowering farmers, and prioritising local planning, the scheme aims to make Indian agriculture more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.If successfully implemented, PM-DDKY could usher in a second Green Revolution, focused not just on yield but on sustainability, income enhancement, and rural prosperity.

6. Place in News: Bolivia – India Extends Vaccine Support Amid Measles-Rubella Outbreak

Context: In a significant act of global solidarity, India has dispatched 3 lakh doses of the Measles-Rubella vaccine to the Plurinational State of Bolivia, offering timely assistance in response to a measles and rubella outbreak. This humanitarian gesture highlights India’s growing role as a trusted partner in global healthcare cooperation, particularly under its Vaccine Maitri initiative.

About Bolivia: A Nation of Altitudes and Diversity

The Plurinational State of Bolivia is a landlocked country located in west-central South America. It boasts diverse terrains, ranging from towering Andean peaks to expansive tropical lowlands.

Dual Capitals:

• Sucre: Constitutional capital and seat of the judiciary
• La Paz: Administrative capital, home to the executive and legislative branches; also the highest capital city in the world at over 3,600 metres above sea level

Geographical Highlights:

• Bordering Nations: Shares frontiers with Brazil (north and east), Paraguay (southeast), Argentina (south), Chile (southwest), and Peru (northwest)
• Landlocked: Despite its rich aquatic heritage, Bolivia has no direct access to the sea, a result of territorial loss to Chile during the War of the Pacific in the late 19th century

Striking Physical Features:

• Andes Mountains: Bolivia is dominated by the Cordillera Oriental and Cordillera Occidental, branches of the Andes, which shape much of its topography and climate
• Altiplano Plateau: A high-altitude plain nestled between the mountain ranges, where major cities like La Paz and El Alto are located

Lake Titicaca:

• World’s Highest Navigable Lake
• Shared with Peru, this majestic lake is located at an altitude of about 3,812 metres above sea level
• It holds deep cultural and historical significance for Andean civilizations like the Inca and Tiwanaku

Additional Facts:

• Population: Over 12 million, with a multi-ethnic society that includes Indigenous peoples, Mestizos, and people of European and African descent
• Languages: Spanish is the official language, but 36 Indigenous languages, including Quechua and Aymara, are also recognized
• Economy: Rich in natural gas, lithium reserves, and mineral wealth, Bolivia plays a key role in the global clean energy supply chain

Conclusion:

Bolivia’s inclusion in international news not only underscores its current public health emergency but also offers a window into a nation of rich cultural heritage, remarkable geography, and growing geopolitical importance. India’s swift action in providing vaccines reinforces the spirit of South-South cooperation and highlights the role of health diplomacy in strengthening international partnerships.