1. United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects 2025

Context: The United Nations (UN) flagship report, World Economic Situation and Prospects 2025, forecasts that the Indian economy will grow by 6.6% in 2025 and 6.7% in 2026. This growth is expected to be a major driver for the South Asian region, highlighting India’s pivotal role in the global economic landscape.

About the Report:

The World Economic Situation and Prospects 2025 is a comprehensive analysis prepared by:

• The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA)
• In collaboration with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
• And the five UN regional commissions

This report offers insights into global economic trends, with a focus on regional and national growth prospects.

Key Highlights from the Report:

1. Global Growth Trends:
   • Global economic growth is projected to remain at 2.8% in 2025, unchanged from 2024.
   • Investments in infrastructure development are expected to have strong multiplier effects, boosting economic activity in the coming years.
2. India’s Growth Outlook:
   • The Indian economy will expand by 6.6% in 2025 and 6.7% in 2026, driven by:
     • Growth in the manufacturing and services sectors.
     • Strong export performance in areas like pharmaceuticals and electronics.
   • Favorable monsoon rains in 2024 have enhanced agricultural prospects, improving crop output expectations for 2025.
3. South Asia’s Economic Prospects:
   • South Asia is predicted to grow at 5.7% in 2025 and 6% in 2026, with India leading the charge.
   • India’s strong performance will be pivotal for the region’s economic resilience.
4. Opportunities for Resource-Rich Economies:
   • Developing countries with abundant natural resources, like India, can leverage the rising demand for critical minerals to:
     • Boost economic growth
     • Generate employment
     • Increase public revenues for infrastructure and social investments.

Conclusion:

The World Economic Situation and Prospects 2025 underscores the resilience of India and South Asia, even amidst global economic challenges. With robust capital investment, expanding exports, and promising agricultural output, India is well-positioned to lead the region’s growth trajectory.This report also highlights opportunities for resource-rich nations to harness critical mineral demand, presenting a path for sustainable development and economic prosperity.

2. Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Programme: Advancing India’s Air Combat Capabilities

Context: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved a significant milestone in its pioneering Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) programme by successfully completing the engine ground run of the CATS-Warrior Loyal Wingman, a full-scale demonstrator.

What is the CATS Programme?

The Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) represents a transformative step in integrating manned and unmanned combat aircraft systems. Its primary aim is to develop advanced platforms capable of:

• High-altitude surveillance as atmospheric satellites.
• Autonomous deep-penetration precision strikes from safe standoff distances.
• Enhancing battlefield awareness and operational efficiency while minimising risks to human life.

Key Components of the CATS Programme:

To achieve its ambitious goals, the CATS programme incorporates multiple platforms, each designed for a specific combat role:

1. CATS-Warrior (Loyal Wingman UCAV):
   • A stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) designed to operate alongside manned fighter jets as a loyal wingman.
   • Equipped with Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons (SAAWs) and Next-Generation Close Combat Missiles (NG CCMs) in internal weapon bays for enhanced strike and self-defence.
   • Features stealth technology to evade enemy radars and air defence systems.
   • Capable of deep penetration up to 700 km into enemy territory for precision strikes.
2. CATS-Hunter (Low-Observable Cruise Missile):
   • An air-launched cruise missile designed for precision strikes deep within enemy territory.
   • Comparable to the SCALP missile used in the Indian Air Force’s Rafale jets.
3. ALFA-S Swarm Drones:
   • Released from a carrier pod mounted on the mothership, these drones perform air-to-ground and air-to-air missions.
   • Functions include neutralising enemy air defence systems.
   • Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) can carry three pods (12 drones), while Su-30MKIs can carry up to four pods (16 drones).
4. CATS-Infinity Pseudo Satellite:
   • A solar-powered pseudo satellite operating at an altitude of 70,000 feet with an endurance of up to 90 days.
   • Acts as a bridge between satellites and UAVs for high-altitude surveillance and tracking targets.
   • Features advanced sensors and synthetic aperture radar for intelligence gathering.

• Supports 4G and 5G communication networks, enhancing military communication systems.

Tejas as the Mothership:

The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) serves as the central command or “mothership” for the CATS-Warrior and other autonomous platforms. This synergy enables the efficient coordination of multiple aerial systems, ensuring superior combat efficiency.

Conclusion:The CATS programme showcases India’s leap towards next-generation aerial warfare technology, combining cutting-edge advancements in autonomous systems, stealth capabilities, and high-altitude surveillance. With platforms like CATS-Warrior, CATS-Hunter, and Infinity Pseudo Satellite, the programme strengthens India’s position as a global leader in air combat innovation.

3. How Temple Traditions Impact Elephant Welfare and Wild Captures

Context: The use of elephants in religious ceremonies has sparked significant debate over animal welfare, public safety, and wild captures. A recent incident in Malappuram, Kerala, where a distressed elephant injured 24 people during a mosque feast, has reignited these discussions, especially amidst ongoing legal disputes.

Key Statistics:

• Kerala reported 24 captive elephant deaths in 2024 and 154 deaths since 2019.
• Between 2011 and 2023, captive elephants killed 196 people at festivals.
• The Supreme Court recently invoked volenti non fit injuria (voluntary assumption of risk), stating that devotees attending festivals with elephants accept inherent risks.

Court Stances on Elephant Use:

Kerala High Court’s Intervention:

In November 2024, the Kerala High Court mandated strict safety measures for festivals involving elephants:

• 3 meters between elephants.
• 5 meters between an elephant and flaming torches.
• 8 meters between elephants and the public or percussion displays.
• 100 meters between elephants and fireworks.

These measures, intended to prevent overcrowding, effectively limited the number of elephants used during festivals.

Impact on Thrissur Pooram:

The iconic Thrissur Pooram festival, initiated in the late 18th century, faced challenges adhering to these guidelines. Organizers deemed the 3-meter distance rule impractical and escalated the matter to the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court’s Decision:

• The Supreme Court stayed the Kerala HC order, emphasizing that courts should not legislate.
• It reinstated the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, which are often flouted, as evidenced by incidents like parading five elephants within confined spaces.

Suffering of Elephants in Religious Ceremonies:

Lack of Choice for Elephants:

Unlike devotees who voluntarily attend festivals, elephants are forced into stressful and dangerous environments.

• The elephant involved in the Malappuram tragedy had a history of aggression and was reemployed after a brief break.

Health and Stress Impacts:

A 2019 study by the Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) revealed alarming stress levels in elephants participating in festivals:

• Stress hormones (glucocorticoid metabolites) led to issues like hyperglycemia, suppressed immunity, and neuronal cell death.
• Captive elephants in forest camps or zoos had lower stress compared to those in festivals.

Visible Signs of Distress:

• Stereotypic behavior: Head bobbing, weaving, and swaying due to monotony and mental distress.
• Physical strain: Kneeling, trunk-lifting, and prolonged standing exacerbate health issues.
• Noise and light exposure worsen their agony during ceremonies.

Continued Wild Captures Despite Legal Protections:

Legal Restrictions:

• The 1977 ban on capturing wild elephants remains, except for treating animals unfit for the wild.
• Trading captive elephants was banned in 1986, but loopholes persist, such as gifting elephants to temples.

Challenges:

• Ineffective breeding: Captive breeding is rare due to challenges in managing aggressive male elephants during musth.
• Illegal practices: Wild elephants are falsely registered as captive-bred by tampering with microchips.

Exploiting Human-Wildlife Conflicts:

Man-elephant conflicts provide a pretext for capturing wild elephants. Politicians often propose relocating “problem elephants” to temples, perpetuating the cycle of captivity.

The Way Forward:

Wildlife Act Amendment (2022):

The amendment allows the central government to frame rules for transferring elephants for “religious and other purposes.” This provision risks undoing decades of conservation efforts.

DNA Mapping for Better Regulation:

• In 2022, the Centre launched DNA profiling of captive elephants to identify bloodlines and improve regulation.
• In six months, 270 elephants were genotyped, marking a step towards transparency.

Balancing Culture and Welfare:

Elephants are deeply entrenched in Kerala’s cultural and religious traditions, making their removal from festivals challenging. A balanced approach is necessary:

• Leveraging cultural pride to promote elephant welfare.
• Implementing and expanding Kerala High Court’s safety measures.
• Judicial guidance, rather than legislation, to ensure safer practices while respecting traditions.

Conclusion:

The use of elephants in religious ceremonies highlights the conflict between tradition, safety, and animal welfare. While festivals symbolize cultural heritage, ensuring the well-being of these majestic animals is crucial. By adopting balanced measures and stricter regulations, India can honor its traditions without compromising the dignity and safety of elephants.

4. Z-Morh Tunnel: Unlocking Year-Round Access to Ladakh and Sonamarg

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the 6.5-km Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

Constructed at a cost of 2,400 crore, the tunnel ensures seamless connectivity between Gagangir and Sonamarg, improving accessibility to Ladakh and enhancing summer travel options.The project, managed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), commenced in May 2015 and concluded in 2024. Recognized as an “engineering marvel,” the tunnel is set to be a game changer for the region.

5.Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025

Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has recently notified the Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025, under the Environmental Protection Act, 1986. These rules, which are set to come into effect on April 1, 2025, are a significant step towards managing End-of-Life Vehicles (EoLV) in an environmentally responsible manner.An End-of-Life Vehicle (EoLV) refers to any vehicle that is no longer validly registered or has been declared unfit by Automated Fitness Centres, or whose registration has been canceled.

Key Highlights of the EoLV Rules:

Applicability:

The rules apply to:

• Producers involved in vehicle manufacturing
• Registered owners of vehicles
• Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSF)
• Automated Testing Stations that perform vehicle inspections
• Entities responsible for handling, processing, and scrapping EoLVs.

Exceptions:

The rules do not apply to:

• Waste batteries (covered under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022)
• Plastic packaging (covered under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016)
• Waste tyres and used oil (covered under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016)
• E-waste (covered under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022)

Responsibilities of Producers and Registered Owners:

Producer’s Responsibilities:

• Producers must comply with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, either by:
  • Purchasing EPR certificates generated by their own RVSF
  • Obtaining EPR certificates from any entity possessing an RVSF.
• The EPR certificates will be issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) via a centralized online portal in favor of the RVSF.

Registered Owner and Bulk Consumer Responsibilities:

• Registered owners and bulk consumers are required to deposit their End-of-Life Vehicles (EoLV) at any of the producer’s designated sales outlets, Collection Centres, or an RVSF within 180 days.

Implementation and Oversight:

Implementation Committee:

To ensure the effective implementation of the End-of-Life Vehicles Rules, the Central Government has constituted an Implementation Committee, chaired by the Chairman of CPCB. This committee will oversee the progress and ensure compliance across all relevant sectors.

Conclusion:The Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025 are a crucial initiative aimed at managing the growing issue of vehicle disposal and ensuring environmentally sustainable practices in the handling of End-of-Life Vehicles. By establishing clear responsibilities for producers and vehicle owners and setting up a framework for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), these rules are poised to make a significant impact on waste management and environmental conservation.

6. Odisha Joins the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY Scheme as 34th State

Context: Odisha has recently become the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This move will benefit millions in the state by providing comprehensive healthcare coverage.

The AB PM-JAY scheme in Odisha will be implemented in convergence with the existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, ensuring a wider reach and better healthcare access for the people of the state.Under this scheme, families will receive coverage of Rs. 5 lakh per year, with an additional Rs. 5 lakh coverage specifically for women members.

About Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY:

Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is the world’s largest health insurance/assurance scheme, launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW) under the Ayushman Bharat initiative. Its primary goal is to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for the nation.

Key Objectives:

• Target: To cover 12 crore families (approximately 55 crore beneficiaries).
• Implementing Agency: National Health Authority (NHA), an autonomous body under MoH&FW.
• Funding Pattern:
  • Fully financed by the government.
  • 60:40 ratio for states (with 90:10 for Northeastern States and Himalayan states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and J&K).
  • For UTs with legislature, the funding follows the same ratio, and for UTs without legislature, the Central government covers 100% of the cost.

Key Features and Benefits of AB PM-JAY:

• Coverage:
  • Provides cashless hospital cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care in both public and private empanelled hospitals.
  • Covers expenses for up to 3 days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days post-hospitalization, including diagnostics and medicines.
• Special Provision for Senior Citizens:
  • In 2024, the Union Cabinet approved an expansion to include all senior citizens aged 70 and above under the scheme.
• Focus on Women:
  • Women members of the family are eligible for an additional Rs. 5 lakh cover, enhancing the benefits of the scheme.

Status and Progress of PM-JAY:

• Digitization and Reach:
  • The scheme is fully digitized and has reached approximately 45% of India’s population.

• Hospital Admissions:
  • Since its inception, 8.19 crore hospital admissions have been recorded.
  • Rs. 1.13 lakh crore has been spent to provide healthcare to marginalized communities.
• Impact on Healthcare Access:
  • The scheme has improved access to healthcare, particularly for cancer patients, with a 33% increase in treatment availability.

Conclusion:

The Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme is a monumental step in India’s healthcare landscape, and with Odisha now on board, millions of families will have access to quality medical care. The expansion of the program, particularly its focus on senior citizens and women, reflects the government’s commitment to improving health equity across the nation.