Daily Current Affairs for UPSC IAS: 15th March 2025

Great Nicobar Island:

The proposed Rs 80,000 crore mega infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island (GNI) has raised serious concerns among environmental activists.

• The project, spearheaded by NITI Aayog, includes a transshipment terminal in Galathea Bay, an greenfield airport, a greenfield township, and a tourism project with a gas-powered plant.
• The project will destroy 130 sq km of primary tropical rainforest, leading to biodiversity loss and ecological imbalance.
  Initial estimates of tree cutting (8.65–9.64 lakh) have been found to be significantly lower than actual numbers, potentially exceeding 10 million trees.
• The project threatens species like the nesting leatherback sea turtle in Galathea Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS).
• The Galathea Bay WLS, designated for marine turtle conservation in 1997, was denotified in 2021 for the port, contradicting India’s Marine Turtle Action Plan (2021).
• The diversion of pristine Nicobar forests is being “compensated” by land in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, which does not replicate the biodiversity lost.
• The coastline falls under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ 1a), making ship-repair and other industrial activities a threat to marine ecosystems.

Seagrass Conservation:

A study in Nature reports that seagrasses are declining at a rate of 1–2% annually, with nearly 5% of species endangered due to human activities, highlighting the need to protect 30% of seagrass by 2030 to preserve biodiversity.

• Seagrasses are submerged, flowering marine aquatic plants that grow in shallow coastal waters such as bays and lagoons.
• They possess small flowers and strap-like or oval leaves, forming dense underwater meadows.
• Seagrasses belong to the order Alismatales and are classified into 4 families with around 60 species.
• Some of the important seagrasses are Sea Cow Grass (Cymodocea serrulata), Thready Seagrass (Cymodocea rotundata), Needle Seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium), Flat-tipped Seagrass (Halodule uninervis), etc.
• Like terrestrial plants, seagrasses conduct photosynthesis and support marine biodiversity and enhance oceanic oxygen levels.
• Seagrasses reproduce both sexually and asexually.
• In sexual reproduction, submarine pollination transfers male pollen to female flowers underwater. Asexually, they propagate through rhizomes-horizontal underground stems, that enable regeneration after disturbances like grazing or storms.
• Seagrass covers 0.1% of the ocean floor but supports marine life, major fisheries, and thrives in tropical and temperate coastlines.
• India’s seagrass meadows span 516.59 sq km, sequestering 434.9 tonnes of CO₂ per sq km annually, with major concentrations in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and the Gulf of Kutch.

Decline in MPLADS Funds:

The latest data by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) indicates a decline in the total funds released by the central government for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) compared to the 16th Lok Sabha (2014-2019).

Key Highlights of the MoSPI Data on MPLADS:

• The MPLADS funds for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) totaled Rs 4,510 crore, a 65.2% decline from the 16th Lok Sabha, primarily due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
• In the 14th Lok Sabha, MPLADS funds saw 102% utilization, while the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas recorded 99% and 98% utilization, respectively.
• MPs from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal received the highest MPLADS funds, while those from Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab received the lowest.
•  During the 17th Lok Sabha period, Rs 1679 crore were allocated to infrastructure (railways, roads, bridges), followed by other public facilities and education.
• MPLADS is a Central Sector Scheme introduced in 1993 that enables the Members of Parliaments (MP) to recommend developmental work in their constituencies with an emphasis on creating durable community assets based on locally felt needs.

Solar Maximum Spurs Solar Missions:

NASA’s PUNCH mission, aimed at studying the Sun’s corona, is the third major solar mission since 2023, reflecting a rise in solar missions linked to the solar cycle, which is nearing its solar maximum.

• The solar cycle is an 11-year period during which the Sun’s magnetic field flips, causing the north and south poles to switch places.
• During the solar maximum (when the Sun is most active), solar activity—such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections—increases, impacting satellite communications and power grids.
• Sunspots are small, dark, and cooler areas where the magnetic field is particularly strong.
• The cycle ends with the solar minimum (when sunspot activity is at its lowest), leading to a decline in solar activity until the next cycle begins.
• The solar cycle is tracked by counting sunspots.

Cassava:

Indigenous farming has preserved cassava’s genetic diversity and earned the title of the ‘bread of the tropics’ for feeding nearly a billion people.

• Cassava (Yuca or Manioc) is a starchy root vegetable and the source of tapioca (a starch used in bakery products, paper, and adhesive industries).
• It is native to South America and widely cultivated in tropical regions (Africa, Asia, and Latin America) for its resilience to drought and poor soils.
• Cassava cultivation in India is mostly confined to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and North-Eastern States.
• It is grown through stem cuttings, but Brazil’s Kukurro tradition promotes genetic diversity by encouraging seed-based reproduction.
• It supports gut health, regulates blood sugar, controls appetite, and lowers type 2 diabetes risk.
• It is used in the production of bioethanol and biodegradable plastics, while its peels and leaves serve as animal fodder.

India Successfully Tests Astra BVRAAM from LCA Tejas AF MK1 Prototype:

India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) successfully conducted the test launch of the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas AF MK1 prototype off the Chandipur coast in Odisha.

• The test demonstrated the missile’s accuracy and advanced capabilities, marking a major step toward strengthening India’s indigenous defense systems.

Key Highlights:

• Missile Tested: Astra BVRAAM (Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile)
• Launch Platform: Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas AF MK1 prototype
• Location of Test: Off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha
• Developed By: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
• Test Result: Direct hit on a flying target with all subsystems performing optimally
• Range: Over 100 kilometers
• Purpose: To enhance India’s air defense capabilities and boost indigenous missile technology

South-East Asia Surveillance Network:

India has proposed the creation of a South-East Asia surveillance network to enhance multi-source collaborative surveillance for better pandemic and health emergency responses.

• The proposal will be discussed with the 11 member countries of WHO South-East Asia Region (SEARO) later this year.

Vision of the South-East Asia Surveillance Network:

• Regional Health Security: Strengthening real-time disease monitoring and early warning systems for rapid response to pandemics and epidemics.
• Cross-Border Collaboration: Improving information-sharing mechanisms among SEARO nations to control transboundary health threats.
• Integrated Surveillance System: Establishing multi-source surveillance by combining genomic data, wastewater analysis, and public health intelligence.
• One Health Approach: Addressing health challenges arising from human-animal-environment interactions, including zoonotic diseases.
• Capacity Building & Innovation: Investing in strong laboratory infrastructure, AI-based predictive surveillance, and digital health solutions.

PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana : Report

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has crossed a milestone of 10 lakh solar-powered homes, with ₹4,770 crore in subsidies disbursed.

•  As of March 10, 2025, 10 lakh households have installed rooftop solar systems, reducing reliance on conventional electricity.
• Over 47 lakh households have applied, showcasing high public demand and growing interest in solar energy adoption.
  ₹4,770 Crore Disbursed: Subsidies worth ₹4,770 crore have been allocated, benefiting 13 lakh households under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
• Gujarat leads with 3.51 lakh installations (41.47%), followed by Uttar Pradesh (73,602) and Kerala (65,423), highlighting regional progress.

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources Report:

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources reported that only 58% of the revised ₹21,640.88 crore allocation for water projects was utilized by December 2024.

Findings:

• 40% of allocated funds remain unspent, delaying critical water projects.
• 2025-26 allocation rose to ₹25,276.83 crore (+18.54%) to boost groundwater management, river basin development, and the Polavaram Irrigation Project.
• The National Hydrology Project’s budget dropped by 98%, and the Command Area Development scheme was cut by 39.28% due to low expenditure.
• Received ₹5,936 crore for 2025-26, expected completion by March 2026 with an optional one-year extension.
• 209 out of 415 sanctioned posts are vacant, affecting flood control and drainage projects.

North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR):

Union Minister laid the foundation stone for NECTAR’s permanent campus in Shillong, aiming to boost technology-driven growth in Northeast India.

• NECTAR is  an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
• Focuses on technological applications for the development of Northeast India.
• Established In 2014, under the Ministry of Science & Technology.
• Headquarters: Shillong, Meghalaya.
• Aim is to Promote technological advancements for socio-economic development in Northeast India, Bridge the gap between research institutions and grassroots innovations,Encourage sustainable agricultural practices like saffron and bamboo cultivation.

SpaDeX Mission: successfully undocked

ISRO successfully undocked the two SpaDeX satellite, marking a major milestone in space docking technology. Achieved successful docking on January 16, 2025, and undocking on March 14, 2025.

• This achievement makes India the fourth country after the U.S., Russia, and China to demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking capabilities in orbit.
• A technology demonstration mission by ISRO designed to test and validate spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking operations in orbit.
• Crucial for future space station assembly, lunar sample return missions, and deep-space exploration.
• Satellites Involved:
  • SDX-01 (Chaser) – The active satellite responsible for docking maneuvers.
  • SDX-02 (Target) – The passive satellite that facilitates docking.
  • Launched In: December 30, 2024, aboard PSLV-C60 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
  • Aim is To develop and demonstrate docking, undocking, and power transfer technologies in space, Establish a foundation for future space station construction, human spaceflight, and interplanetary missions.

Indian Rupee Symbol : Controversy

Tamil Nadu government replaced the official Indian Rupee symbol with the Tamil letter “Ru” in the state Budget 2025-26, sparking a political row.

• The Indian Rupee (₹) symbol represents India’s economic strength and global identity in financial transactions.
• Officially adopted by the Government of India on July 15, 2010.
• Designed By Udaya Kumar, a designer from IIT Bombay, selected through an open competition.
• Features of the Symbol:
  • A blend of Devanagari ‘Ra’ (र) and Roman ‘R’, reflecting India’s linguistic diversity.
  • Two parallel horizontal stripes at the top symbolize the Indian national flag and the ‘equal to’ sign (≈) representing economic stability.
  • Distinct design ensures easy recognition in global financial systems.

Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Treaty:

Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed to a peace treaty after nearly four decades of conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, marking a historic resolution in the region.Nagorno-Karabakh is a landlocked mountainous region in the Caucasus between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but populated mostly by ethnic Armenians. It had an unrecognized separatist government closely linked to Armenia.

India’s Participation in the 69th Session of UNCSW:

The Government of India, represented by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, took part in the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW), held at the UN Headquarters in New York.The session focused on gender equality and women’s empowerment, with India reaffirming its commitment to holistic development, inclusive policies, and international cooperation for women’s rights

Axar Patel Appointed as Delhi Capitals Captain for IPL 2025:

Delhi Capitals (DC), co-owned by JSW-GMR, has officially appointed Axar Patel as the team’s captain for the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 31-year-old all-rounder, who has been with the franchise since 2019, takes over the leadership role after serving as vice-captain for two seasons. Known for his consistent performances with both bat and ball, Axar Patel has earned the trust of the franchise and is now set to lead DC into the new season, aiming for success with a well-balanced squad.

Former Indian All-Rounder Syed Abid Ali Passes Away at 83:

The cricketing world mourns the loss of Syed Abid Ali, a former Indian all-rounder, who passed away at the age of 83 in the United States. Known for his remarkable agility, all-round performances, and key contributions to Indian cricket, Abid Ali played a vital role in shaping many memorable moments in the sport’s history.Born in Hyderabad, Abid Ali made a name for himself as a dependable all-rounder in Indian cricket. He was known for his ability to swing the ball, bat sensibly in the lower order, and was one of the most agile fielders of his time.

Six New Properties Added to India’s UNESCO Tentative List:

India has recently added six new properties to its UNESCO Tentative List, bringing the total count of tentative sites in the country to 62. These sites, including Ashokan Edict Sites, Chausath Yogini Temples, and Kanger Valley National Park, were officially included in the list on March 7, 2024, as confirmed by the Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO. The announcement was shared by India at UNESCO on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

RBI Wins Digital Transformation Award 2025:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been awarded the Digital Transformation Award 2025 by Central Banking, London, UK. This prestigious recognition is a testament to RBI’s successful implementation of its digital initiatives—Pravaah and Sarthi—which were developed in-house by its IT team. These digital advancements have significantly improved RBI’s internal workflow management and external regulatory processes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing reliance on paper-based submissions.

Google Unveils Gemma 3:

Google has introduced Gemma 3, the latest addition to its family of lightweight open AI models, designed to run efficiently on devices such as smartphones, laptops, and other computing platforms.Built on the same cutting-edge research and technology that powers Google’s Gemini 2.0 models, Gemma 3 aims to enhance user experiences with low-latency processing capabilities that fit on a single GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or TPU (Tensor Processing Unit) host.

N Ganapathy Subramaniam Appointed as Chairman of Tata Communications:

Tata Communications has officially announced the appointment of N Ganapathy Subramaniam (NGS) as the Chairman of the Board of Directors. His appointment will be effective from March 14, 2025. This decision follows the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, as stated in the company’s regulatory filing.N Ganapathy Subramaniam, widely recognized as NGS, has been an integral part of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for an impressive 40 years. He played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, stepping down in May 2024 after serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Executive Director.

Arun Mammen Elected as Chairman of ATMA:

The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA), the national industry body representing India’s automotive tyre sector, has elected Arun Mammen, the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Ltd., as its new Chairman. This leadership transition comes at a crucial moment as ATMA celebrates its Golden Jubilee Year (2025).