1) Powerful Earthquake hits Myanmar

GS 1: Geography: Massive earthquake in Myanmar

Why is it in the news?

• Myanmar was struck by a massive earthquake of magnitude 7.7 on March 28, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremors caused significant damage, toppling buildings in Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, and bringing down a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok, Thailand.
• Notably, this was the strongest earthquake recorded globally in the past two years, as per USGS data. The epicentre was about 17.2 km from Mandalay, a city with a population of around 1.5 million, and the quake occurred at a shallow depth of just 10 km.

What Causes Earthquakes?

• Earthquakes occur due to sudden movements in the Earth’s crust when two blocks of rock slip past each other along fault lines. This movement releases stored elastic strain energy in the form of seismic waves, which cause the ground to shake.
• The Earth’s crust is divided into tectonic plates that constantly move, though their rough edges can get stuck while the rest of the plate continues moving. When the strain becomes too great, the plates suddenly unstick, leading to an earthquake.
• The point below the Earth’s surface where the quake originates is called the hypocentre, while the location directly above it on the surface is the epicentre.

Why Are Shallow Earthquakes More Dangerous?

• Shallow earthquakes, like the recent one in Myanmar, tend to be more destructive because their seismic energy reaches the surface with greater intensity. In contrast, deeper quakes spread out more but lose energy as they travel upward.
• The magnitude of an earthquake also determines its destructive potential. Each whole-number increase on the magnitude scale represents a tenfold increase in seismic wave amplitude and 32 times more energy release.
• For example, a magnitude 6 earthquake produces seismic waves with 10 times higher amplitude than a magnitude 5 quake, while releasing 32 times more energy.

Earthquake Frequency in Myanmar

• Myanmar is highly prone to earthquakes due to the presence of the Sagaing Fault, a major fault line running north to south through the country. The region has a history of significant seismic activity, with six major earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or higher recorded between 1930 and 1956.
• The recent quake’s epicentre near Mandalay is also located along this fault. Globally, earthquakes of magnitude 7 or above are not uncommon, with around a dozen occurring annually. However, in the past two years, only three such major quakes have been recorded.

2) Inclusion of Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project Under PMKSY-AIBP

GS 3: Economy: Enhancing irrigation facilities

Why is it in the news?

• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the inclusion of the Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project of Bihar under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (PMKSY-AIBP).
• The project, estimated to cost ₹6,282.32 crore, will receive ₹3,652.56 crore as central assistance for completion by March 2029.

About the Project

• The Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project aims to divert surplus water from the Kosi River to the Mahananda basin in Bihar, enhancing irrigation facilities.
• It involves the remodelling of the existing Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC) up to 41.30 km and extending it up to River Mechi at 117.50 km, effectively linking the Kosi and Mechi rivers within Bihar.
• The project will provide additional annual irrigation facilities for 2,10,516 hectares of farmland during the Kharif season in the districts of Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, and Katihar.
• Moreover, it will restore water supply to 1.57 lakh hectares of existing command areas under the Eastern Kosi Main Canal. Additionally, 2,050 million cubic meters of surplus Kosi water will be diverted to the Mahananda command area during the monsoon period.

Background of PMKSY-AIBP

• The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) was launched in 2015-16 to enhance water accessibility on farms, expand cultivable areas under assured irrigation, and promote sustainable water conservation practices.
• The Government of India approved PMKSY’s implementation for 2021-26 with an overall outlay of ₹93,068.56 crore, including ₹37,454 crore as central assistance.
• The Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), a component of PMKSY, focuses on major and medium irrigation projects. Since April 2016, 63 projects have been completed, creating an additional irrigation potential of 26.11 lakh hectares.
• Under PMKSY 2.0, nine projects have been included since 2022, with the Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project becoming the tenth project under this initiative.

3) From Farm to Retail: Make in India’s Push for Food Processing Excellence

GS 3: Economy: India’s food processing sector

Context

• India’s food processing industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by its vast agricultural base, increasing domestic demand, and supportive government policies. The country is set to emerge as a global leader in this sector, leveraging its position as the largest producer of fruits, vegetables, millets, tea, food grains, milk, and livestock.
• Under the Make in India initiative, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has implemented various schemes to attract investments and develop infrastructure.
• Mega Food Parks with essential utilities and common processing facilities are being established in agriculturally rich areas, offering a plug-and-play model for entrepreneurs. Investment in these parks is recognized under the Harmonized List of Infrastructure Sub-sectors (HLIS), facilitating easier access to infrastructure lending.
• To further boost investment, the Ministry has launched an Investors Portal, providing key information on resources, policies, and incentives while collaborating with Invest India to support partnerships, regulatory approvals, and investor assistance. The budget for MoFPI in 2024-25 increased by 30.19% compared to the previous year.

An overview of the Food Processing Sector in India

PM Kisan Sampada Yojana

• The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) is a central sector scheme aimed at modernizing infrastructure and improving supply chain management from farm to retail. It was launched in May 2017 with a total allocation of ₹6000 crore, and its continuation has been approved with an allocation of ₹4600 crore until March 31, 2026.
• As of February 28, 2025, MoFPI has sanctioned 1608 projects, including:

1. I) 41 Mega Food Parks
2. II) 394 Cold Chain Projects

III) 75 Agro-processing Clusters

1. IV) 536 Food Processing Units
2. V) 61 Backward & Forward Linkage Projects
3. VI) 44 Operation Greens Projects

• A total of ₹6198.76 crore has been disbursed as grants/subsidies under PMKSY. The scheme focuses on increasing farmers’ incomes, reducing agricultural wastage, enhancing food processing levels, boosting exports, and creating employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas.

The PMKSY scheme focuses on:

• Developing modern infrastructure and an efficient supply chain from farm to retail.
• Strengthening India’s food processing sector.
• Ensuring better returns for farmers and aiding in doubling their income.
• Creating significant employment opportunities, especially in rural areas.
• Reducing agricultural produce wastage.
• Increasing food processing levels.
• Boosting exports of processed foods.

Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI)

The Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) was approved in March 2021, with a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore for implementation between 2021-22 and 2026-27. The scheme aims to enhance food manufacturing and branding in global markets through:

• Incentivizing production in Ready-to-Cook/Ready-to-Eat (RTC/RTE) foods, including millet-based products, processed fruits and vegetables, marine products, and mozzarella cheese.
• Promoting innovative and organic products by supporting SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises).
• Supporting branding and marketing abroad to establish strong Indian food brands.
• Encouraging millet-based products by carving out the Production Linked Incentives Scheme for Millet-Based Products (PLISMBP) to promote millet production, value addition, and sales.
• As of February 28, 2025, 171 food processing companies have been approved for assistance, with ₹1155.296 crore disbursed, including ₹13.266 crore to MSMEs in 20 eligible cases. The scheme has attracted ₹8,910 crore in investments across 213 locations and created employment for 2.89 lakh people as of October 31, 2024.
• By scaling up domestic manufacturing, enhancing value addition, and boosting employment, the scheme plays a crucial role in strengthening the sector.

Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME)

• Launched in June 2020, the PMFME scheme supports the formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises, aligning with the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
• With an outlay of ₹10,000 crore for FY 2020-2025 (extended to FY 2025-26), the scheme aims to benefit 2 lakh enterprises through credit-linked subsidies and the One District One Product (ODOP) approach.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

• The government actively supports SMEs in food processing through financial, technical, and marketing assistance under PMKSY, PMFME, and PLISFPI. PMFME focuses on formalizing unorganized food enterprises, improving access to institutional credit, modern infrastructure, and food processing capacity.
• PLISFPI supports branding and marketing abroad, reimbursing 50% of branding and marketing expenses for Indian-branded food products, capped at ₹50 crore per year or 3% of annual sales, whichever is lower. As of March 2025, 73 beneficiaries are receiving assistance under this component.

Recent Developments

• March 2025: MoFPI will fund 100 new NABL-accredited food testing laboratories across India in FY 2025-26 to enhance food safety and quality.
• January 2025: MoFPI, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Punjab Agro Industries Corporation, and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) have partnered to boost tomato production and paste manufacturing in Punjab.

World Food India 2024

• The third edition of World Food India was held from September 19-22, 2024, in New Delhi, serving as India’s largest event for the food processing and allied industries. Since its launch in 2017, the event has been a platform for showcasing India’s rich culinary traditions and attracting investments in the food processing sector.
• The 2024 edition focused on innovation, backward linkages, R&D, cold chain solutions, and start-ups, positioning India as a global food hub.

Conclusion

• India’s food processing sector holds immense potential for growth and sustainability. Government initiatives, including PMKSY, PLISFPI, and PMFME, have strengthened infrastructure, enhanced value addition, and supported SMEs.
• The expansion of cold chain facilities, financial incentives, and skill development programs is positioning India as a global leader in food processing. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, the sector is set to increase farmer incomes, reduce food wastage, generate employment, and boost exports.
• Under the Make in India vision, the food processing industry will remain a key driver of economic growth, ensuring food security, quality, and global competitiveness.

4) India-Russia Naval Exercise INDRA 2025

GS 3: Defence: Enhancing Naval Cooperation

Why is it in the news?

• The 14th edition of the India-Russia bilateral naval exercise INDRA 2025 is scheduled to take place off Chennai from March 28 to April 2, 2025. This exercise serves as a key symbol of the strong maritime partnership between the two nations and reflects their long-term strategic relationship.
• Established in 2003, Exercise INDRA has grown into a significant platform for enhancing naval cooperation, interoperability, and operational synergy.

Structure of INDRA 2025

The exercise will be conducted in two phases:

• Harbour Phase– This will take place in Chennai and include an opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings.
• Sea Phase– This will be held in the Bay of Bengal and will feature advanced naval drills, including tactical manoeuvres, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings, and the exchange of sea riders.

5) PM-PRANAM

GS 3: Economy: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture

Why is it in the news?

• The PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother-Earth (PM-PRANAM) aims to safeguard soil health by encouraging the sustainable and balanced use of fertilizers.
• The scheme promotes the adoption of alternative fertilizers and organic farming to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and enhance ecological sustainability.

Approval and Implementation

• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the PM-PRANAM scheme on June 28, 2023, covering all States and Union Territories (UTs).
• The initiative supports mass efforts toward sustainable agriculture by integrating resource conservation technologies alongside alternative farming methods.
• The scheme provides financial incentives to States and UTs that successfully reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers—Urea, DAP, NPK, and MOP—within a financial year. These incentives amount to 50% of the fertilizer subsidy saved due to reduced usage.

Achievements in Fertilizer Reduction

• Under PM-PRANAM, 14 states recorded a reduction of 15.14 LMT in chemical fertilizer consumption during FY 2023-24, compared to the average usage over the previous three financial years. This demonstrates a significant shift towards sustainable agricultural practices.
• However, Rajasthan has not achieved any reduction in chemical fertilizer consumption under this scheme.

6) India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime  

GS 2: International Relations: India-Myanmar Relations

Why is it in the news?

• In 2024, the Union Home Minister announced plans to revoke the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border due to security concerns. However, no concrete steps have been taken so far, leaving the status of the agreement uncertain.

Understanding the Free Movement Regime

• The FMR is a bilateral arrangement between India and Myanmar, allowing tribal communities along the border to travel freely without a visa.
• Introduced in 1968 to acknowledge the close ethnic and familial ties across the border, the initial movement limit was 40 km, later reduced to 16 km in 2004. Stricter regulations were further introduced in 2016 to monitor cross-border activities.

Key Reasons for Revising FMR

• Security Risks: Political instability in Myanmar and the presence of armed groups near the border have created concerns over infiltration and illegal migration, posing a threat to India’s internal security.
• Drug Smuggling: Myanmar is part of the notorious Golden Triangle, a major hub for illicit drug production and trafficking. The porous border has made it easier for narcotics to enter India, exacerbating drug abuse issues.
• Militant Presence: Insurgent groups use Myanmar’s dense forests as safe havens, exploiting the FMR to establish camps and launch operations in India’s northeastern states.
• Increase in Refugees: Conflict and instability in Myanmar have led to a growing influx of refugees, particularly in Manipur and other northeastern states, straining resources and altering the region’s demographics.
• Growing Chinese Influence: Since Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, its reliance on China has increased significantly. China has provided diplomatic and economic support, reducing Myanmar’s engagement with other regional powers, including India.

India-Myanmar Bilateral Relations

• Geographical Links: India and Myanmar share both a land and maritime border, with four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram—directly adjoining Myanmar.
• Diplomatic Engagement: The two nations have historically maintained strong diplomatic ties, reinforced by high-level visits and agreements, including the 1951 Treaty of Friendship.
• Cultural and Historical Bonds: India and Myanmar have deep-rooted cultural connections, influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, and historic trade networks, fostering longstanding people-to-people ties.
• Strategic Importance: Myanmar acts as a crucial bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, making it strategically vital for India’s Act East and Neighborhood First policies aimed at strengthening regional integration.
• Trade and Economic Cooperation: India has been one of Myanmar’s key trading partners since signing a trade agreement in 1970. Bilateral trade reached $1.50 billion in 2023-24, conducted under frameworks like the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) and India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme.
• Border and Security Collaboration: Given shared concerns over insurgency, smuggling, and illegal migration, both countries engage in security cooperation through intelligence sharing and joint border patrolling.
• Infrastructure and Connectivity Initiatives: India is investing in major infrastructure projects to improve regional connectivity. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway are key efforts to enhance trade routes. Additionally, the Sittwe Port in Myanmar’s Rakhine Province plays a critical role in the Kaladan project, boosting maritime trade.
• Development Assistance: India extends aid to Myanmar across various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and skill development, supporting economic growth and stability in the region.
• Regional Cooperation Platforms: Both nations actively participate in regional groupings such as BIMSTEC and Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and security ties.

Way Forward

• As Myanmar’s political situation remains uncertain, India needs a well-structured policy to regulate cross-border movement while balancing security and humanitarian concerns.
• Public awareness and engagement with local communities are essential to ensure a smooth transition from the existing FMR, fostering stability and cooperation in the region.

7) Severe Coral Bleaching Threatens Ningaloo Reef

GS 3: Environment and Biodiversity: Coral Bleaching

Why is it in the news?

• An unprecedented mass coral bleaching event is unfolding along Australia’s western coast, severely impacting the Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Global Coral Bleaching Crisis

• This bleaching event is part of the fourth global coral bleaching episode, ongoing since 2023. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that nearly 84% of the world’s reef ecosystems have experienced significant heat stress, affecting marine biodiversity in over 80 countries and territories.
• Rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and overfishing—intensified by climate change—have further worsened the crisis.

Understanding Coral Reefs

• Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems formed by reef-building corals. They consist of coral polyp colonies bound by calcium carbonate and have a symbiotic relationship with algae called zooxanthellae.

Ideal Environmental Conditions:

• Temperature: 20°C–35°C
• Salinity: 27%–40%
• Depth: Generally found in shallow waters (<50m) to ensure sufficient sunlight for growth

Major Coral Reef Locations:

• Worldwide: Great Barrier Reef (Australia, UNESCO-listed)
• India: Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Malvan

Ecological and Economic Importance of Coral Reefs

• Biodiversity Hotspots: Provide habitat and food for marine species
• Coastal Protection: Reduce the impact of storms and coastal erosion
• Climate Regulation: Aid in carbon sequestration and help mitigate climate change
• Economic Benefits: Support fisheries, tourism, and the Blue Economy
• Medical Research: Serve as a source for new pharmaceutical discoveries, including anticancer and antiviral drugs

Major Threats to Coral Reefs

• Climate Change Impacts: Coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and algal overgrowth
• Human Activities: Overfishing, pollution, and coral extraction
• Habitat Destruction: Coastal development and increased sedimentation from human interventions

Measures to Protect Coral Reefs

• Mitigating Climate Change: Maintain global temperature rise below 2°C under the Paris Agreement
• Strengthening Regulations: Implement policies aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (economic growth) and SDG 12 (sustainable resource use)
• Global Cooperation: Enhance international efforts to curb overfishing and reduce marine pollution
• Scientific Innovation: Invest in research on heat-resistant coral species to support reef restoration and resilience

8) India Becomes World’s Second-Largest Tea Exporter

GS 3: Economy: India’s growth in tea export

Why is it in the news?

• India has emerged as the world’s second-largest tea exporter, surpassing Sri Lanka, as per the Indian Tea Board’s latest report.
• In 2024, India exported 255 million kg of tea, placing it just behind Kenya in global rankings. The total export value saw a 15% surge, rising from Rs 6,161 crore in 2023 to Rs 7,111 crore in 2024.

Composition and Major Markets

• Black tea dominates India’s tea exports, making up 96% of total shipments, with smaller volumes of regular, green, herbal, masala, and lemon tea also being exported.
• A significant boost in exports to West Asia, particularly Iraq, has been a key driver of this growth. Iraq now accounts for 20% of India’s tea exports and is projected to import 40-50 million kg in the current financial year.
• India exports tea to over 25 countries, including the UAE, Iran, Russia, the US, and the UK.

Key Tea-Producing Regions and Global Recognition

• India’s major tea-producing regions include Assam (Assam Valley, Cachar) and West Bengal (Dooars, Terai, Darjeeling). Indian teas, particularly Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri varieties, are highly valued for their quality and flavour in global markets.
• The growth in exports is attributed to promotional efforts, branding initiatives, and improved welfare measures for tea plantation workers.

Role of the Tea Board of India

• The Tea Board of India, established as a statutory body in 1954 under the Tea Act, 1953, regulates the country’s tea industry and safeguards the interests of tea producers. It oversees all tea production across India’s tea-growing regions.
• The board comprises 32 members, including a Chairman and Deputy Chairman, appointed by the Indian government to represent various stakeholders in the tea industry. Its headquarters is located in Kolkata.

9) Rana Sanga: The Rajput Warrior King (1484–1527)

GS 1: Culture and History: Legacy of Rana Sanga

Why is it in the news?

• A recent statement in Parliament referring to Rajput ruler Rana Sanga as a “traitor” has sparked debate over his role in Babur’s invasion of India.

About Rana Sanga

• Rana Sanga, or Maharana Sangram Singh, was the ruler of Mewar from 1509 to 1527. Known for his military prowess, he expanded his kingdom across present-day Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, and Sindh.

Military Campaigns and Achievements

• Formed a powerful Rajput confederacy with a formidable army of 80,000 cavalry and 500 war elephants.
• Led successful battles against the Lodi dynasty of Delhi, the Sultanates of Malwa and Gujarat, and early Mughal forces.
• Key victories include the Battle of Gagron against Mahmud Khilji of Malwa and the Battle of Dholpur (1519) against Ibrahim Lodi.

Clash with Babur

• Rana Sanga eventually confronted Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire.
• The decisive Battle of Khanwa (1527) saw Babur’s forces defeat the Rajput army, marking the decline of Rajput resistance in North India.

Legacy and Controversy

• Despite his defeat, Rana Sanga remains a symbol of Rajput valor and resistance against foreign invaders.
• While Babur’s memoirs (Baburnama) claim Sanga sought an alliance against Ibrahim Lodi, scholars like Satish Chandra suggest he underestimated Babur’s ambition to establish Mughal rule in India.
• Some believe Sanga saw Babur as a temporary ally, while others argue that Babur exaggerated his role in the Baburnama.

10) Exercise Prachand Prahar

GS 3: Defence: Enhancing operational effectiveness

Why is it in the news?

• The Indian Armed Forces recently conducted Prachand Prahar, a tri-service multi-domain exercise in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh.

Key Features

• The exercise emphasized seamless coordination of surveillance, strike capabilities, and multi-domain operational planning.
• It involved advanced platforms such as long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, armed helicopters, UAVs, loitering munitions, and space-based assets to enhance situational awareness and precision targeting.
• Prachand Prahar follows Exercise Poorvi Prahar (November 2024), which focused on integrating aviation assets for operational effectiveness.