Context: The World Bank Group (WBG) has released the 13th edition of its annual flagship report, “State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2026”, identifying India among the world’s largest new carbon markets following the launch of India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) in 2026. The report notes that global carbon pricing systems now cover 29 per cent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, up steadily over the past decade. Annual revenues from emissions trading systems (ETS) and carbon taxes have tripled over the past ten years, from less than USD 30 billion in 2016 to over USD 107 billion in 2025. Direct carbon prices have risen 7 per cent over the past year and nearly doubled over the decade, from about USD 10 per tCO2e in 2016 to nearly USD 21 per tCO2e in 2026. Key Highlights Key headline numbers: Indicator Value Trend Global GHG emissions covered by carbon pricing 29 per cent Up from previous years Annual revenues from ETS and carbon taxes (2025) Over USD 107 billion Tripled from <USD 30 bn in 2016 Global average direct carbon price (2026) ~USD 21 per tCO2e Up 7 per cent year-on-year; nearly doubled from USD 10 in 2016 Active carbon pricing policies globally 87 Up 7 since 2025 Coverage potential if all policies under development are implemented by 2030 ~33.33 per cent of global GHG emissions India’s CCTS positioning: India’s NDC commitments: About the News (Q&A) What does the World Bank report find? That global carbon pricing now covers 29 per cent of GHG emissions, revenues have tripled to over USD 107 billion, prices have nearly doubled to ~USD 21 per tCO2e, and 87 carbon pricing policies are now in force globally. India is among the largest new carbon markets with the launch of its Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) in 2026. Why is India’s CCTS significant? (a) It marks India’s transition from an energy-efficiency framework (PAT) to a formal carbon market. (b) It positions India as a major new player in global carbon markets. (c) It supports India’s NDC and net-zero 2070 commitments. (d) It creates financial incentives for industries to reduce emissions and invest in cleaner technologies. What is the difference between an Emissions Trading System (ETS) and a Carbon Tax? ETS is a cap-and-trade system: a government sets a cap on total emissions, issues tradable permits, and lets the market discover the price. Carbon tax is a price-based instrument: the government sets a fixed tax per tonne of CO2 equivalent, and emitters pay the tax directly. Both are forms of carbon pricing, but they differ on whether the cap or the price is fixed. What is the future trajectory? If all carbon pricing policies currently under development are implemented by 2030, nearly one-third of global GHG emissions could come under formal carbon pricing, marking a significant expansion in global climate policy coverage. Background Concepts What is Carbon Pricing? A policy instrument that assigns a monetary cost to greenhouse gas emissions, internalising the environmental cost of carbon into economic decisions. Two main forms: (a) Emissions Trading System (ETS) or cap-and-trade: government sets a cap on total emissions; entities trade allowances within that cap. (b) Carbon Tax: government fixes a per-tonne tax on CO2 equivalent emissions. Carbon pricing creates financial incentives for emitters to reduce emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and shift to low-carbon pathways. What is the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)? India’s national carbon market framework, notified under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022. It is administered by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, with the MoEFCC involved in policy design and the Grid Controller of India as the registry and settlement operator. The CCTS replaces and builds on the earlier Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme, and operates two market segments: a compliance market for designated obligated entities and an offset market for voluntary projects. It is the operational backbone of India’s emerging carbon market. What is the Paris Agreement and what are India’s NDCs? The Paris Agreement, adopted at COP21 in 2015, is a legally binding international treaty on climate change that aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Countries submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), voluntary commitments updated every five years. India’s updated NDCs (2022) include: 45 per cent reduction in emissions intensity of GDP from 2005 levels by 2030, 50 per cent non-fossil installed power capacity by 2030, net zero by 2070, and creation of an additional 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent carbon sink through forest and tree cover by 2030. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the World Bank’s “State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2026” report, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about carbon pricing instruments: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key Exam Relevance Exam Relevance UPSC Prelims GS Paper III on Environment (Climate change, Carbon pricing, NDCs); GS Paper II on IR (World Bank, Paris Agreement) UPSC Mains GS Paper III on Environment, Climate finance, Carbon markets BPSC and State PCS Environment, Economy, Current Affairs Banking (RBI Gr B, NABARD) ESG, climate finance, moderate to high
MoSJE Launches JEEVAN App and SHATAYU Dashboard
Source: PIB Context: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has officially launched two complementary digital platforms at a National Workshop in New Delhi: the JEEVAN mobile application (Joint Elderly Empowerment & Virtual Assistance Network) and the SHATAYU geriatric caregiver dashboard (Senior Holistic Care Assistance and Training For Your Utility). Developed and managed by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, the platforms together aim to use digital technology to ensure the safety, healthcare access, dignity, and social inclusion of India’s senior citizen population, while formalising the unstructured elderly care sector into a professional, trackable care economy. Key Highlights Two platforms launched: Platform Full Form Target Users JEEVAN Joint Elderly Empowerment & Virtual Assistance Network Senior citizens and their families SHATAYU Senior Holistic Care Assistance and Training For Your Utility Care providers, families seeking caregivers, regulators JEEVAN Mobile Application features: SHATAYU Dashboard features: About the News (Q&A) What are JEEVAN and SHATAYU? JEEVAN is a citizen-facing mobile app that provides senior citizens with a single window to welfare schemes, pensions, healthcare entitlements, emergency SOS, and institutional home information. SHATAYU is a national caregiver dashboard that maps, certifies, tracks, and verifies geriatric caregivers across districts, enabling families to find vetted help. Who is the implementing agency? The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE). What does the JEEVAN app offer? (a) Unified welfare gateway to schemes and entitlements. (b) One-touch SOS to emergency services and elder helpline. (c) Geo-tagged listings of verified senior citizen homes and day-care facilities. (d) Elder-friendly design with large fonts, voice navigation, and simplified interactions. What does the SHATAYU dashboard offer? (a) District-level real-time availability of verified caregivers. (b) Training and certification trackers for caregivers. (c) Care economy integration across NGOs and skill councils. (d) Verified service directory with background checks. Background Concepts (Q&A) What is the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007? A landmark central legislation that obligates children and heirs to provide maintenance to parents and senior citizens, establishes Maintenance Tribunals at the sub-divisional level for grievance redressal, and provides for old age homes at least one per district. The Act gives senior citizens a legal right to claim maintenance and protects them from neglect, abandonment, and abuse. What is the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)? An umbrella central sector scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for the welfare of senior citizens, restructured in 2022-23. It consolidates several sub-schemes, including the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) for running old-age homes and care services, the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for providing assistive devices to BPL elderly, the Senior Citizens Welfare Fund, and support for the National Elder Helpline (Elderline 14567). What is the “care economy”? The economic system of paid and unpaid work involved in caring for people, including children, the elderly, the sick, and persons with disabilities. It includes direct care (nursing, attendant services, geriatric care), indirect care (cooking, cleaning, household management), and emotional/social care. Globally, the care economy is recognised as a major sector for inclusive growth, women’s employment, and demographic resilience. The SHATAYU dashboard is part of India’s effort to formalise and professionalise the geriatric segment of the care economy. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the recently launched JEEVAN App and SHATAYU Dashboard, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about the JEEVAN mobile application: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about the SHATAYU Dashboard: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to India’s framework for senior citizen welfare, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key Exam Relevance Exam Relevance UPSC Prelims GS Paper II on Government Schemes, Welfare; GS Paper I on Society (Demography, Ageing) UPSC Mains GS Paper II on Government policies, Welfare of vulnerable sections, Health BPSC and State PCS Welfare schemes, Society, Current Affairs Banking and NABARD General Awareness, moderate importance
Scientists Discover New Amphibian Species “Kali Night Frog” (Nyctibatrachus kali) in Karnataka’s Western Ghats
Context: Scientists have announced the discovery of a new amphibian species, Nyctibatrachus kali, commonly called the Kali night frog, from the central Western Ghats of Karnataka. The species belongs to the ancient genus Nyctibatrachus (the night frogs), which is entirely endemic to the Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity. The Kali night frog inhabits the pristine, torrential stream ecosystems and humid leaf litter of the Castlerock rainforest in the Kali river catchment basin, named after the Kali river that flows through the region. Key Highlights Key characteristics: Feature Description Cryptic species Morphologically near-identical to the Kumbara night frog (Nyctibatrachus kumbara) Genetic identification Confirmed as separate lineage via DNA isolation and sequencing Bioacoustic profile Distinct frequency and pulse patterns in the male’s mating call Behaviour Nocturnal, active at night near fast-flowing streams Distribution Micro-endemic, restricted to a small pocket of the central Western Ghats Conservation context: Background Concepts What is the genus Nyctibatrachus? A genus of frogs entirely endemic to the Western Ghats of India, commonly known as night frogs because of their nocturnal behaviour. Members of this ancient lineage are mostly small to medium-sized, stream-associated frogs with specialised adaptations to torrential mountain stream ecosystems. The genus is one of the largest and most diverse frog groups in the Western Ghats, with several recently described members, including the Kumbara night frog and now the Kali night frog. What is a “cryptic species”? Two or more species that are morphologically near-identical (so they look the same to the eye) but are genetically, behaviourally, or ecologically distinct. Cryptic species can be identified only through modern molecular tools (DNA sequencing), bioacoustic analysis, ecological studies, or detailed morphometric measurements. The discovery of cryptic species is increasingly common in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats, and has important implications for conservation planning, because each cryptic species may need separate protection strategies. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the recently discovered Kali night frog, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about cryptic species: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. With reference to the Western Ghats, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. Consider the following statements about the genus Nyctibatrachus: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key
BDIA Launches “Bharat Digital Samvad”
Source: IE Context: The Bharath Digital Infrastructure Association (BDIA) has launched “Bharat Digital Samvad” in New Delhi, described as India’s first dedicated national forum on digital sovereignty and infrastructure policy. The forum is designed to promote dialogue and collaboration among policymakers, regulators, digital platforms, broadcasters, industry stakeholders, academia, and innovators on India’s evolving digital ecosystem. It brings together leaders from cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and data platforms, with the explicit aim of creating a roadmap for India’s next digital decade. Key Highlights Participants and stakeholders: Three-priority focus: Priority Stated Goal National Security Securing India’s digital and data infrastructure Economic Growth Building toward a USD 1 trillion digital economy by 2030 Technological Self-Reliance Reducing dependence on foreign digital infrastructure and platforms Three planned deliverables of the forum: Deliverable Description Structured policy brief Multi-stakeholder recommendations for MeitY, TRAI, and other ministries Digital Industrial Policy Framework Levers: taxation, public procurement preferences, R&D incentives, market access Foreign-tech dependence map Quantification of India’s reliance on foreign technology and a pathway to digital self-reliance Guiding principle: “Data Swaraj” Broader policy context: About BDIA: About the News (Q&A) What is Bharat Digital Samvad? A national forum launched by the BDIA in New Delhi to bring together policymakers, regulators, digital platforms, broadcasters, technology companies, academia, and innovators for dialogue and collaboration on India’s digital sovereignty and infrastructure policy. Why is it significant? Because it is being positioned as India’s first dedicated national forum explicitly focused on digital sovereignty, a concept that goes beyond traditional digital policy to assert India’s right to set its own rules on data, infrastructure, and technology in an increasingly contested global digital landscape. What is the principle of “Data Swaraj”? A principle that asserts India’s sovereign right to control how its data is collected, stored, governed, and monetised. It applies the Gandhian idea of “Swaraj” (self-rule) to the digital domain, framing data as a sovereign resource rather than a globally-traded commodity, and demanding that India set the terms of its own digital economy. What is the target for the digital economy? India aims for the digital economy to reach USD 1 trillion by 2030, making it a critical pillar of the broader Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. Background Concepts (Q&A) What is “Digital Sovereignty”? The principle that a nation has the right and capability to govern its own digital infrastructure, data, technology, and online activity independent of foreign control. It typically includes data localisation, sovereign control over critical digital infrastructure (cloud, telecom, semiconductors), regulation of foreign digital platforms operating within national borders, and the right to set technology standards. Globally, this concept is being adopted by the European Union, India, and many emerging economies as a response to concentration of digital power in a few foreign tech companies. What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)? A set of open, interoperable digital systems that serve as foundational layers for government, private sector, and citizen interactions. India’s DPI stack includes Aadhaar (identity), UPI (payments), Account Aggregator (data sharing), Unified Lending Interface (credit), Bhashini (language), and ONDC (commerce). India has emerged as a global thought leader on DPI, exporting elements of its stack to multiple countries through bilateral partnerships and at the G20. What is the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023? India’s first comprehensive data protection law, enacted in August 2023. It establishes the rights of data principals (citizens), the obligations of data fiduciaries (entities collecting and processing data), penalties for breaches, and the Data Protection Board of India as the enforcement authority. It is the legal backbone of India’s data sovereignty agenda. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the recently launched “Bharat Digital Samvad”, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about the concept of “Data Swaraj”: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key
Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0
Context: Bankers are reporting early traction under the revived Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0, with a steady rise in enquiries and applications from MSMEs, though they caution that it is too early to gauge the eventual disbursement outcome. The scheme, launched earlier in May 2026, is designed to cushion businesses against disruptions arising from the West Asia conflict, offering 100 per cent government guarantee to standard MSMEs and 90 per cent guarantee to non-MSMEs including airlines. The initial response suggests that MSMEs may be shoring up liquidity buffers and securing additional credit lines amid an uncertain operating environment, rather than necessarily reflecting underlying stress. What is Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0? ECLGS 5.0 is the latest version of the Government of India’s flagship credit-guarantee scheme, launched in May 2026 to cushion businesses against the economic disruptions arising from the 2026 West Asia conflict (oil prices above USD 100 per barrel, Strait of Hormuz disruption, supply-chain shocks, currency depreciation). It revives and adapts the template originally launched in May 2020 as a COVID-19 liquidity backstop. Under the scheme, the Government provides a sovereign guarantee to member lending institutions (banks, NBFCs, financial institutions) for incremental loans extended to eligible borrowers. The guarantee covers a substantial portion of the credit risk, encouraging lenders to extend credit during stressed periods that they would otherwise consider too risky. Administering Bodies Body Role Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services (DFS) Policy framework and budgetary backing National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) Implementing agency; administers guarantees, claims, recoveries Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) Banks, NBFCs, FIs that disburse the loans Ministry of MSME Coordinates with eligible MSME borrowers Key Design Features of ECLGS 5.0 Guarantee structure: Borrower Category Government Guarantee Standard MSMEs 100 per cent Non-MSMEs (including airlines) 90 per cent Credit limits: Borrower Category Additional Credit Available Cap per Borrower Standard MSMEs with existing working capital limits Up to 20 per cent of peak working capital utilised in Q4 FY26 â‚ą100 crore Airlines Up to 100 per cent of peak working capital â‚ą1,500 crore Eligibility conditions: Sectoral allocation: Evolution: ECLGS 1.0 through 5.0 ECLGS was originally launched in May 2020 as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to cushion the COVID-19 economic shock, alongside a regulatory standstill that froze days-past-due classification temporarily. Versions 1.0 to 4.0 were rolled out between 2020 and 2022, expanding coverage to different sectors (MSMEs, healthcare, hospitality, tourism, civil aviation, contact-intensive services), raising loan caps, and extending tenures. Version Period Primary Focus ECLGS 1.0 (May 2020) COVID first wave MSMEs and small businesses with existing credit lines ECLGS 2.0 (Nov 2020) Sectoral stress 26 stressed sectors identified by Kamath Committee + healthcare ECLGS 3.0 (Mar 2021) Hospitality and travel Hospitality, travel, tourism, leisure, sporting sectors ECLGS 3.0 (extended) (May 2021) COVID second wave Civil aviation added; sector limits raised ECLGS 4.0 (May 2021) Healthcare On-site oxygen generation plants, hospital infrastructure Original ECLGS Closed 31 March 2023 â‚ą3.61 trillion guarantees; â‚ą2.82 trillion disbursements ECLGS 5.0 (May 2026) 2026 West Asia conflict MSMEs + airlines; â‚ą2.55 trillion target Background Concepts (Q&A) What is the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)? A government-backed credit-guarantee scheme that provides 100 per cent (or 90 per cent for some categories) sovereign guarantees to banks and lending institutions for loans extended to eligible MSMEs and other businesses. The scheme is administered by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) under the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance. The first version was launched in May 2020 to cushion the COVID-19 economic shock and concluded on 31 March 2023. ECLGS 5.0, launched in May 2026, is the revived version targeted at disruptions arising from the West Asia conflict. What is the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC)? A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, incorporated under the Companies Act in 2014. It acts as the common trustee company for various credit-guarantee funds of the Government of India, including the ECLGS, the Credit Guarantee Fund for Stand Up India (CGFSI), and others. It manages claims, disbursements, and recoveries on behalf of lender banks under government-guaranteed schemes. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the recently launched ECLGS 5.0, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about the credit limits under ECLGS 5.0: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about the legacy of the original ECLGS: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. Consider the following statements about the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key
Fintech Jumpp Receives IRDAI Corporate Agency and ISNP Licences to Distribute Insurance Through AI-Powered Platform
Context of the News The conversational fintech platform Jumpp, operated by the Finvasia Group, has received both a Corporate Agency licence and an Insurance Self Network Platform (ISNP) licence from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), allowing it to digitally distribute insurance products through its AI-powered platform. Key Highlights Licences received from IRDAI: Licence Function Corporate Agency Sell insurance products of multiple insurers (typically up to 9 per line of business) Insurance Self Network Platform (ISNP) Operate a fully digital, end-to-end insurance distribution platform online Insurance products planned: Embedded-finance stack on Jumpp: Layer Authorisation Service Banking + BBPS Partnership with YES Bank Bank-grade services, bill payments Payments NPCI authorisation UPI payments Investments Finvasia Group’s existing brokerage operations Equities, MFs, derivatives Insurance IRDAI Corporate Agency + ISNP Multi-product, multi-insurer distribution Data layer Account Aggregator (AA) framework Consolidated multi-account dashboard AI layer Proprietary Personalised financial and insurance recommendations Broader sectoral context (IRDAI’s vision): About the News (Q&A) What has Jumpp received from IRDAI? A Corporate Agency licence to sell insurance products of multiple insurers, and an Insurance Self Network Platform (ISNP) licence to operate a fully digital end-to-end insurance distribution platform. Together, these create a complete digital intermediary framework. What is the embedded-finance significance? Jumpp now houses banking, bill payments, UPI, investments, and insurance within a single app, integrated with the Account Aggregator framework for consolidated financial visibility and powered by AI-driven recommendations. This is the embedded-finance super-app architecture that India’s fintech sector is increasingly moving toward. Why does the Account Aggregator framework matter? Because it allows Jumpp to read a user’s financial position across accounts (with consent), then recommend insurance products that actually match the user’s needs, reducing the mis-selling that has historically plagued Indian insurance distribution. Background Concepts (Q&A) What is a Corporate Agent and what is an Insurance Self Network Platform (ISNP)? A Corporate Agent is a registered intermediary authorised by IRDAI to sell insurance products of insurers with whom it has a formal tie-up. Under IRDAI rules, a corporate agent can typically partner with up to 9 insurers per line of business (life, general, health). An Insurance Self Network Platform (ISNP) is a digital insurance marketplace authorised by IRDAI to issue, service, and manage insurance policies entirely online. ISNP guidelines were issued by IRDAI in 2017 to enable a fully digital, end-to-end insurance experience, from policy discovery through claims, on a single regulated platform. What is the Account Aggregator (AA) framework? A regulated, consent-based digital framework that allows individuals and businesses to securely share their financial data across regulated entities (banks, insurers, mutual funds, NBFCs, pension funds). It is regulated by the RBI under the NBFC-Account Aggregator Master Direction (2016), and is interoperable across financial-sector regulators (RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA) through ReBIT-led technical standards. The AA framework allows users to consolidate financial data for easier credit underwriting, personalised financial recommendations, and integrated dashboards, while keeping the user firmly in control through explicit, revocable consent. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the recent IRDAI approval received by Jumpp, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about Insurance distribution intermediaries in India: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. With reference to the Account Aggregator (AA) framework, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. Consider the following statements about IRDAI’s “Bima Trinity”: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key
Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Source: News on Air Context: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), has announced major achievements under the nationwide “Khet Bachao Abhiyan”, a campaign aimed at promoting balanced fertilizer use, soil test-based nutrient management, and sustainable farming practices. The campaign was designed to reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers, particularly urea, which is heavily over-applied in India and contributes to declining soil health, nutrient imbalance, groundwater pollution, and high subsidy outgo. Key Highlights Aims of the Abhiyan: Key practices promoted: Broader policy connections: Background Concepts (Q&A) What is the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)? An autonomous body under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Established in 1929 as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research, headquartered in New Delhi. ICAR coordinates agricultural research, education, and extension across India through a network of ~113 research institutes, 74 agricultural universities, and 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) at the district level. What is Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)? A holistic approach to plant nutrition that combines chemical fertilizers, organic manures, bio-fertilizers, and crop residues based on soil tests and crop needs, with the aim of maintaining soil fertility, optimising nutrient use efficiency, and minimising environmental damage. INM is the foundation for sustainable agricultural productivity in India. What is PM-PRANAM? The PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Generation, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth, launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. It incentivises states and union territories to reduce chemical fertilizer use by sharing a portion of the savings in subsidy with states that achieve reductions. States can use the funds for alternative fertilizers, organic farming, soil health improvement, and natural farming. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about Integrated Nutrient Management (INM): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to the PM-PRANAM scheme, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key Exam Relevance Exam Relevance NABARD Grade A Very high importance on agriculture, rural credit, sustainability Agriculture, Geography, Environment Optional Sustainable agriculture, soil management, agricultural policy
Daily Current Affairs (DCA) 24 & 25 May, 2026
Daily Current Affairs Quiz24 & 25 May, 2026 Reports 1. State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2026: World Bank Report 2026 Context: The World Bank Group (WBG) has released the 13th edition of its annual flagship report, “State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2026”, identifying India among the world’s largest new carbon markets following the launch of India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) in 2026. The report notes that global carbon pricing systems now cover 29 per cent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, up steadily over the past decade. Annual revenues from emissions trading systems (ETS) and carbon taxes have tripled over the past ten years, from less than USD 30 billion in 2016 to over USD 107 billion in 2025. Direct carbon prices have risen 7 per cent over the past year and nearly doubled over the decade, from about USD 10 per tCO2e in 2016 to nearly USD 21 per tCO2e in 2026. Key Highlights Key headline numbers: Indicator Value Trend Global GHG emissions covered by carbon pricing 29 per cent Up from previous years Annual revenues from ETS and carbon taxes (2025) Over USD 107 billion Tripled from <USD 30 bn in 2016 Global average direct carbon price (2026) ~USD 21 per tCO2e Up 7 per cent year-on-year; nearly doubled from USD 10 in 2016 Active carbon pricing policies globally 87 Up 7 since 2025 Coverage potential if all policies under development are implemented by 2030 ~33.33 per cent of global GHG emissions India’s CCTS positioning: India’s NDC commitments: About the News (Q&A) What does the World Bank report find? That global carbon pricing now covers 29 per cent of GHG emissions, revenues have tripled to over USD 107 billion, prices have nearly doubled to ~USD 21 per tCO2e, and 87 carbon pricing policies are now in force globally. India is among the largest new carbon markets with the launch of its Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) in 2026. Why is India’s CCTS significant? (a) It marks India’s transition from an energy-efficiency framework (PAT) to a formal carbon market. (b) It positions India as a major new player in global carbon markets. (c) It supports India’s NDC and net-zero 2070 commitments. (d) It creates financial incentives for industries to reduce emissions and invest in cleaner technologies. What is the difference between an Emissions Trading System (ETS) and a Carbon Tax? ETS is a cap-and-trade system: a government sets a cap on total emissions, issues tradable permits, and lets the market discover the price. Carbon tax is a price-based instrument: the government sets a fixed tax per tonne of CO2 equivalent, and emitters pay the tax directly. Both are forms of carbon pricing, but they differ on whether the cap or the price is fixed. What is the future trajectory? If all carbon pricing policies currently under development are implemented by 2030, nearly one-third of global GHG emissions could come under formal carbon pricing, marking a significant expansion in global climate policy coverage. Background Concepts What is Carbon Pricing? A policy instrument that assigns a monetary cost to greenhouse gas emissions, internalising the environmental cost of carbon into economic decisions. Two main forms: (a) Emissions Trading System (ETS) or cap-and-trade: government sets a cap on total emissions; entities trade allowances within that cap. (b) Carbon Tax: government fixes a per-tonne tax on CO2 equivalent emissions. Carbon pricing creates financial incentives for emitters to reduce emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and shift to low-carbon pathways. What is the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)? India’s national carbon market framework, notified under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022. It is administered by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, with the MoEFCC involved in policy design and the Grid Controller of India as the registry and settlement operator. The CCTS replaces and builds on the earlier Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme, and operates two market segments: a compliance market for designated obligated entities and an offset market for voluntary projects. It is the operational backbone of India’s emerging carbon market. What is the Paris Agreement and what are India’s NDCs? The Paris Agreement, adopted at COP21 in 2015, is a legally binding international treaty on climate change that aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Countries submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), voluntary commitments updated every five years. India’s updated NDCs (2022) include: 45 per cent reduction in emissions intensity of GDP from 2005 levels by 2030, 50 per cent non-fossil installed power capacity by 2030, net zero by 2070, and creation of an additional 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent carbon sink through forest and tree cover by 2030. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the World Bank’s “State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2026” report, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about carbon pricing instruments: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key Exam Relevance Exam Relevance UPSC Prelims GS Paper III on Environment (Climate change, Carbon pricing, NDCs); GS Paper II on IR (World Bank, Paris Agreement) UPSC Mains GS Paper III on Environment, Climate finance,
India Submits 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to UNFCCC
Context: India submitted its 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change on 30 December 2024. The report provides updated information on India’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, mitigation measures, climate actions, and progress towards its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. According to the report, India’s total GHG emissions declined by 7.93% in 2020 compared to 2019, reflecting the impact of cleaner energy transitions and pandemic-related economic slowdown. Key Highlights of India’s BUR-4 Decline in Greenhouse Gas Emissions In 2020: Sector-wise Contribution to Emissions The energy sector remained the largest contributor to emissions. Sector Share in Total Emissions Energy 75.66% Agriculture 13.72% Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU) 8.06% Waste 2.56% Forests and Carbon Sink Performance India’s forests and tree cover played a major role in carbon sequestration. India’s forest and tree cover currently account for 25.17% of the country’s total geographical area. What is a Biennial Update Report (BUR)? A Biennial Update Report is a report submitted by developing countries to the UNFCCC every two years. It contains: BURs improve transparency and help assess progress toward global climate goals. What is LULUCF? LULUCF stands for Land Use, Land-Use
Daily Current Affairs (DCA) 23 May, 2026
Daily Current Affairs Quiz23 May, 2026 National Affairs 1. Birth Rate and Infant Deaths Fall in India: SRS 2024 Bulletin Source: TH Context: The Sample Registration System (SRS) 2024 bulletin, released by the Office of the Registrar General of India (ORGI), provides the sharpest picture yet of India’s demographic transition. India’s Crude Birth Rate (CBR) has fallen from 21 per 1,000 population (2014) to 18.3 (2024), the Crude Death Rate (CDR) has dropped marginally from 6.7 to 6.4, and the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has registered the most significant gain — falling from 39 to 24 per 1,000 live births. While the overall performance is creditable — reflecting a decade of healthcare interventions by the Centre and States — vast rural-urban gaps persist. Rural birth rate (22.7 → 20.2) and rural IMR (43 → 27) still lag substantially behind urban birth rate (17.4 → 14.7) and urban IMR (26 → 17). Key Highlights Decadal performance (2014 → 2024): Indicator 2014 2024 Change Crude Birth Rate (per 1,000) 21 18.3 ↓ 2.7 Crude Death Rate (per 1,000) 6.7 6.4 ↓ 0.3 Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births) 39 24 ↓ 15 Rural vs Urban (2014 → 2024): Indicator Rural Urban Birth Rate 22.7 → 20.2 17.4 → 14.7 Death Rate 7.3 → 6.8 5.5 → 5.6 (slight rise) IMR 43 → 27 26 → 17 State leaders: Category Leader NGR IMR Larger States (1st) Kerala 3.9 8 (single digit) Larger States (2nd) Tamil Nadu 4.8 11 Smaller States Goa 4.2 11 Union Territories A&N Islands 4.1 9 About the News What does the SRS 2024 bulletin show? A clear improvement in India’s demographic indicators — birth rate (21 → 18.3), death rate (6.7 → 6.4), and IMR (39 → 24) — between 2014 and 2024. What is the rural-urban gap? Rural areas lag substantially — rural IMR (27) is 59% higher than urban IMR (17), and rural birth rate (20.2) is 37% higher than urban (14.7). Urban India has progressed faster but rural India drags national averages down. Which states lead? (a) Kerala — NGR 3.9, IMR 8 (lowest in India). (b) Tamil Nadu — NGR 4.8, IMR 11 (2nd among large states). (c) Goa (smaller states), A&N Islands (UTs). Background Concepts What is the Sample Registration System (SRS)? A large-scale demographic survey conducted by the Office of the Registrar General of India (ORGI) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It provides reliable annual estimates of birth rate, death rate, infant mortality, and fertility through dual-record sampling in selected rural and urban units across India. It is India’s most authoritative source for vital demographic statistics between Census years. What is the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)? The number of deaths of infants below 1 year of age per 1,000 live births in a given year. IMR is a key indicator of healthcare quality, maternal-child health services, and socioeconomic development. India’s target is to bring IMR to single digits, and the SDG 3.2 target is under-5 mortality ≤ 25 per 1,000 by 2030. What is the Crude Birth Rate (CBR) and Crude Death Rate (CDR)? (a) CBR: Live births per 1,000 population in a given year. (b) CDR: Deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Both are basic demographic indicators used to track population dynamics. What is the Natural Growth Rate (NGR)? The rate at which population increases or decreases due to births and deaths, excluding migration, expressed as a percentage. Calculated as (CBR – CDR) / 10. It is a crucial indicator of demographic transition — a low NGR signals an economy moving toward demographic stability. Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2024 bulletin, consider the following statements: How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four (e) None Q2. Consider the following statements about the rural-urban demographic divide in India: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 1, 2 and 3 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q3. Consider the following statements about the Sample Registration System (SRS): Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Q4. With reference to demographic indicators, consider the following statements: Which of the above are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only (e) All four Answer Key 2. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh Launches Phase-II of UMMID Programme for Rare Genetic Disorders Source: PIB Context: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science and Technology, has launched Phase-II of the Unique Methods of Management and Treatment of Inherited Disorders (UMMID) Programme for Rare Genetic Disorders (RGDs) at Prithvi Bhawan, New Delhi. UMMID — originally launched on 23 September 2019 as India’s first comprehensive national initiative for molecular diagnostics of rare diseases — is implemented by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science and Technology. Key Highlights Phase-II components: Component Function NIDAN Kendras Advanced genetic diagnostics and counselling Clinician training Capacity-building of doctors and geneticists Community outreach Underserved region screening and awareness UMMID Dashboard Nationwide digital monitoring Phase-II expansion: Background: About the News What are NIDAN Kendras? National Inherited Diseases Administration Kendras — dedicated genetic diagnostic and counselling centres that provide molecular testing, family-based counselling, and clinical support for rare genetic and inherited disorders. How does Phase-II expand the network? (a) 25 new NIDAN Kendras across 13 states + 1 UT. (b) 3 new training centres — Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh. (c) UMMID Dashboard for nationwide digital monitoring. Why is UMMID significant? (a) India has an estimated 70-100 million people with rare genetic disorders. (b) Late diagnosis is widespread due to limited specialists and diagnostics. (c) Molecular testing can provide early, accurate diagnosis — improving outcomes and reducing
