UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February (2025)
• Surveillance Capitalism
Surveillance Capitalism
GS Paper 3:
• Reducing India’s Fertilizer Dependence
Reducing India’s Fertilizer Dependence
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Kota Cares Initiative
Kota Cares Initiative
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO)
African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO)
• Tea Horse Road
Tea Horse Road
• Impact of Space Travel on Astronaut Health
Impact of Space Travel on Astronaut Health
• Project Farm Vibes
Project Farm Vibes
• National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
• Internet Shutdown in India
Internet Shutdown in India
Mapping:
• Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)
Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
Surveillance Capitalism
Syllabus: Governance
Source: TH
Context: Surveillance capitalism is reshaping digital economies, with big tech companies like Google, Meta, and Amazon monetizing user data, raising concerns over privacy, autonomy, and state surveillance.
About Surveillance Capitalism:
What is Surveillance Capitalism?
• An economic model where tech corporations collect, analyze, and monetize personal data to influence behaviour.
• Described by Shoshana Zuboff (2018) as a new economic order that extracts human experience for profit.
How It Works & Characteristics:
• Behavioral Data Extraction: Companies track every click, search, and purchase, creating detailed digital profiles.
• Predictive Analytics: AI-driven algorithms forecast user actions and modify behaviors for commercial gain.
• Instrumentarian Power: Data-driven control mechanisms subtly shape choices, rather than using force or coercion.
• Social Physics Model: Analyses massive datasets to predict and influence collective behaviours
• State-Corporate Alliance: Governments rely on private tech giants for intelligence gathering and surveillance, reducing public accountability.
How It Differs from Traditional Capitalism?
• Focus Shift:
• Industrial Capitalism: Depended on physical labor & material production.
• Surveillance Capitalism: Profits from behavioral data mining.
• Monetization of Human Experience: Unlike goods & services-based models, this system commodifies personal data.
• Behavioral Control: Algorithms subtly nudge users toward decisions benefiting corporations.
• Economic & Political Influence: Unlike traditional models, corporate interests are closely linked with state policies.
• Continuous Data Harvesting: Personal data is collected 24/7, affecting consumer choices, elections, and policymaking.
Negative Impacts of Surveillance Capitalism:
• Erosion of Privacy: Companies track and monetize personal data without user consent (e.g., Cambridge Analytica Scandal, 2014).
• Manipulation & Loss of Autonomy: AI algorithms influence choices in shopping, voting, and opinions, limiting individual freedom.
• Threat to Democracy: Targeted political ads influence elections, undermining democratic integrity (e.g., 2016 U.S. Presidential Elections).
• Cybersecurity Risks & Data Breaches: Large-scale data breaches expose users to identity theft & financial fraud.
• State Surveillance & Civil Liberties: Governments use tech firms’ data for mass surveillance, limiting free speech and suppressing dissent.
Measures to Counter Surveillance Capitalism:
• Strengthening Data Protection Laws: EU’s GDPR & India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA, 2023) ensure user control over personal data.
• Regulating Big Tech: Governments must implement antitrust laws to curb monopolistic data exploitation.
• Enhancing Public Awareness: Digital literacy programs can help users understand privacy settings and data usage policies.
• Tech Accountability & Algorithm Transparency: Companies should be mandated to disclose data collection and AI decision-making processes.
• Banning Data Commodification: Prohibit business models that rely on selling behavioural data, similar to restrictions on child data usage (COPPA, U.S.).
Conclusion:
Surveillance capitalism is shaping economies, politics, and personal freedoms, making privacy a global concern. Governments must enforce strict regulations, promote ethical AI, and educate users about data privacy rights. Only a global framework on digital rights can ensure autonomy and safeguard democracy in the digital age.
• How has the development of Global Capitalism changed the nature of Socialist economies and developing societies? (UPSC-2017)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025 GS Paper 3
Reducing India’s Fertilizer Dependence
Syllabus: Agriculture
Source: IE
Context: The Indian government is strategizing to reduce the consumption of high-analysis fertilizers like Urea, Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), and Muriate of Potash (MOP) due to their heavy import dependence and economic burden.
Status of Urea, DAP, and Potash in India:
• Production Capacity: India produces 31.4 million tonnes (MT) of Urea (2023-24), up from 22 MT in 2011-12.
• Import Dependency: Imports have declined from 9.8 MT (2020-21) to 7 MT (2023-24) due to increased domestic production.
• Economic Survey 2023-24 highlights that energy-efficient urea plants have improved productivity.
• DAP: Import Dependence: India imports both finished DAP and raw materials from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Jordan, and China. High Cost: The import cost of DAP is $636 (₹55,150) per tonne, while production costs exceed ₹65,000 per tonne. Subsidy Burden: Government caps DAP price at ₹27,000 per tonne, but the subsidy needed to cover costs is high.
• Import Dependence: India imports both finished DAP and raw materials from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Jordan, and China.
• High Cost: The import cost of DAP is $636 (₹55,150) per tonne, while production costs exceed ₹65,000 per tonne.
• Subsidy Burden: Government caps DAP price at ₹27,000 per tonne, but the subsidy needed to cover costs is high.
• Muriate of Potash (MOP): 100% Imported: India lacks mineable potash reserves, relying on Canada, Russia, and Jordan for supply. Import Costs: Rising global potash prices have inflated import bills, increasing the need for alternatives.
• 100% Imported: India lacks mineable potash reserves, relying on Canada, Russia, and Jordan for supply.
• Import Costs: Rising global potash prices have inflated import bills, increasing the need for alternatives.
Consequences of Urea, DAP, and Potash Overuse:
• Economic Impact: Rising Import Bill: Fertilizer imports put a heavy burden on foreign exchange reserves, with ₹1.75 lakh crore spent on fertilizer subsidies (2023-24). Subsidy Drain: The government spends ₹1,500 per bag of Urea, making it unsustainably cheap for farmers. Price Volatility: India is vulnerable to international fertilizer price fluctuations, affecting affordability.
• Rising Import Bill: Fertilizer imports put a heavy burden on foreign exchange reserves, with ₹1.75 lakh crore spent on fertilizer subsidies (2023-24).
• Subsidy Drain: The government spends ₹1,500 per bag of Urea, making it unsustainably cheap for farmers.
• Price Volatility: India is vulnerable to international fertilizer price fluctuations, affecting affordability.
• Environmental Impact: Soil Degradation: Overuse of Urea and DAP lowers organic carbon content, reducing soil fertility. Groundwater Contamination: Excess nitrogen from Urea leaches into water bodies, leading to nitrate pollution. Crop Imbalance: Continuous use affects microbial diversity, leading to low productivity over time.
• Soil Degradation: Overuse of Urea and DAP lowers organic carbon content, reducing soil fertility.
• Groundwater Contamination: Excess nitrogen from Urea leaches into water bodies, leading to nitrate pollution.
• Crop Imbalance: Continuous use affects microbial diversity, leading to low productivity over time.
• Governance Challenges: Subsidy Burden: Rising fiscal costs make it difficult for the government to sustain high subsidies. Policy Gaps: The absence of strict regulations on nutrient application causes imbalanced soil nutrition. Black Marketing: Cheap subsidized fertilizers are diverted to non-agricultural use, increasing shortages.
• Subsidy Burden: Rising fiscal costs make it difficult for the government to sustain high subsidies.
• Policy Gaps: The absence of strict regulations on nutrient application causes imbalanced soil nutrition.
• Black Marketing: Cheap subsidized fertilizers are diverted to non-agricultural use, increasing shortages.
Potential Substitutes for Urea, DAP, and MOP:
• Ammonium Phosphate Sulphate (APS – 20:20:0:13): Better Alternative: Provides nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulphur (S), unlike DAP, which lacks sulphur. Reduces Dependence: Requires less phosphoric acid, cutting import costs Market Growth: APS sales rose by 32.4%, replacing DAP in several regions.
• Better Alternative: Provides nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulphur (S), unlike DAP, which lacks sulphur.
• Reduces Dependence: Requires less phosphoric acid, cutting import costs
• Market Growth: APS sales rose by 32.4%, replacing DAP in several regions.
• Nano Urea & Nano DAP: Increases Nutrient Efficiency: More effective nutrient absorption than traditional Urea. Cost-Effective: Requires lower application rates, reducing fertilizer consumption. Trials & Adoption: Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) introduced Nano Urea, showing 15-20% yield improvement.
• Increases Nutrient Efficiency: More effective nutrient absorption than traditional Urea.
• Cost-Effective: Requires lower application rates, reducing fertilizer consumption.
• Trials & Adoption: Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) introduced Nano Urea, showing 15-20% yield improvement.
• Single Super Phosphate (SSP – 16% P, 11% S): Sulphur-Rich Alternative: Helps in oilseed, pulse, and vegetable production. Low Cost: More affordable than DAP, boosting adoption among small farmers.
• Sulphur-Rich Alternative: Helps in oilseed, pulse, and vegetable production.
• Low Cost: More affordable than DAP, boosting adoption among small farmers.
• Biofertilizers & Organic Manure: Reduces Chemical Usage: Improves soil health without harming the environment. Government Promotion: PM-PRANAM scheme promotes alternative fertilizers.
• Reduces Chemical Usage: Improves soil health without harming the environment.
• Government Promotion: PM-PRANAM scheme promotes alternative fertilizers.
• NPKS Complex Fertilizers (10:26:26:0, 12:32:16:0): Balanced Nutrient Composition: Meets crop-specific needs while reducing MOP & DAP dependence. Market Growth: Sales of NPKS fertilizers increased to 14 MT in 2024-25 from 7.3 MT in 2013-14.
• Balanced Nutrient Composition: Meets crop-specific needs while reducing MOP & DAP dependence.
• Market Growth: Sales of NPKS fertilizers increased to 14 MT in 2024-25 from 7.3 MT in 2013-14.
Effectiveness of Substitutes:
• Reduces Import Costs: Substitutes like APS and Nano Urea cut foreign exchange outflows.
• Improves Soil Health: Balanced fertilizers prevent soil degradation and enhance productivity.
• Promotes Sustainability: Organic and biofertilizers improve ecological balance.
• Enhances Crop Yield: Trials show better absorption rates, improving efficiency.
• Government Policy Support: Initiatives like PM-PRANAM and Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) promote alternatives.
Way Ahead:
• Balanced Fertilization Awareness: Conduct soil health campaigns to educate farmers on nutrient efficiency.
• Subsidy Reforms: Shift subsidy focus to APS, Nano Urea, and complex fertilizers instead of DAP/Urea.
• Technology-Driven Agriculture: Encourage AI-based fertilizer application using Microsoft FarmVibes AI.
• Strengthening Domestic Production: Invest in indigenous fertilizer R&D and biofertilizer manufacturing.
• Policy Integration: Align fertilizer policy with agriculture and climate policies to achieve long-term sustainability.
Conclusion:
India’s dependence on imported Urea, DAP, and Potash is unsustainable, both economically and environmentally. Shifting towards balanced fertilizers like APS, Nano Urea, and organic alternatives is critical for long-term agricultural sustainability. Government initiatives, policy support, and farmer awareness will play a crucial role in this transition.
• How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and the economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? (UPSC-2017)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Kota Cares Initiative
Context: The Kota district administration introduced student welfare reforms under the “Kota Cares” initiative to tackle stress, mental health concerns, and safety issues among coaching students.
About Kota Cares Initiative:
• What is It?
• A student support initiative aimed at reducing stress, improving safety, and enhancing well-being for 1.25 lakh students in Kota’s coaching centers.
• A student support initiative aimed at reducing stress, improving safety, and enhancing well-being for 1.25 lakh students in Kota’s coaching centers.
• Aim: To create a safe, supportive, and student-friendly environment by addressing accommodation, safety, mental health, and recreation needs.
• How It Works:
• Student Housing Reforms: Eliminates caution deposits, caps maintenance fees at ₹2,000, and mandates transparent payment systems with receipts. Enhanced Safety Measures: Implements CCTV surveillance, biometric access, fire safety NOCs, and suicide prevention devices in hostels. Mental Health & Recreation: Provides free access to recreational zones, mid-term food services, and sets up student support centers. 24/7 Emergency Services: Ensures round-the-clock medical aid, trained hostel staff, and dedicated helpdesks at transport hubs.
• Student Housing Reforms: Eliminates caution deposits, caps maintenance fees at ₹2,000, and mandates transparent payment systems with receipts.
• Enhanced Safety Measures: Implements CCTV surveillance, biometric access, fire safety NOCs, and suicide prevention devices in hostels.
• Mental Health & Recreation: Provides free access to recreational zones, mid-term food services, and sets up student support centers.
• 24/7 Emergency Services: Ensures round-the-clock medical aid, trained hostel staff, and dedicated helpdesks at transport hubs.
• Impact:
• Reduces Student Stress: Enhances mental well-being and creates a safe, supportive environment for students. Prevents Suicides: Strengthens mental health interventions and suicide prevention mechanisms in hostels. Improves Living Conditions: Ensures better housing facilities, security, and emergency medical services. Boosts Kota’s Reputation: Establishes Kota as a student-friendly city, attracting more aspirants with improved facilities.
• Reduces Student Stress: Enhances mental well-being and creates a safe, supportive environment for students.
• Prevents Suicides: Strengthens mental health interventions and suicide prevention mechanisms in hostels.
• Improves Living Conditions: Ensures better housing facilities, security, and emergency medical services.
• Boosts Kota’s Reputation: Establishes Kota as a student-friendly city, attracting more aspirants with improved facilities.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS Paper 2 (Governance & Social Justice):
• Education Policy & Student Welfare: Addresses mental health, housing, and coaching ecosystem challenges. Role of District Administration: Demonstrates good governance in student support systems.
• Education Policy & Student Welfare: Addresses mental health, housing, and coaching ecosystem challenges.
• Role of District Administration: Demonstrates good governance in student support systems.
• GS Paper 3 (Development & Social Issues):
• Youth Empowerment & Skill Development: Supports students preparing for competitive exams. Health & Safety Regulations: Focus on mental well-being and suicide prevention policies.
• Youth Empowerment & Skill Development: Supports students preparing for competitive exams.
• Health & Safety Regulations: Focus on mental well-being and suicide prevention policies.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 25 February 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO)
Source: News on Air
Context: The 21st African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) conference concluded in New Delhi, reaffirming commitment to community-driven rural development and South-South cooperation.
About African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO):
• What is AARDO?
• AARDO (African-Asian Rural Development Organization) is an intergovernmental organization promoting rural development cooperation between Asia and Africa.
• AARDO (African-Asian Rural Development Organization) is an intergovernmental organization promoting rural development cooperation between Asia and Africa.
• Established in: March 31, 1962, with the adoption of its Constitution in Cairo, Egypt.
• History & Evolution:
• Originated from the 1955 East Asian Rural Reconstruction Conference in Tokyo. Officially formed after the 1961 Afro-Asian Conference on Rural Reconstruction in New Delhi. Permanent headquarters established in New Delhi, India, in 1966.
• Originated from the 1955 East Asian Rural Reconstruction Conference in Tokyo.
• Officially formed after the 1961 Afro-Asian Conference on Rural Reconstruction in New Delhi.
• Permanent headquarters established in New Delhi, India, in 1966.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Members: Currently includes 33 member countries from Asia and Africa.
• Aims of AARDO: Foster South-South Cooperation: Strengthen economic and technical collaboration for rural development. Enhance Agricultural & Rural Policies: Promote sustainable agricultural growth, poverty alleviation, and food security. Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate training programs, research, and expertise-sharing between member nations.
• Foster South-South Cooperation: Strengthen economic and technical collaboration for rural development.
• Enhance Agricultural & Rural Policies: Promote sustainable agricultural growth, poverty alleviation, and food security.
• Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate training programs, research, and expertise-sharing between member nations.
• Functions and Powers: Policy Coordination: Acts as a forum for policy dialogues among Asian and African nations. Capacity Building: Organizes seminars, workshops, and training programs for rural development. Technical Assistance: Provides advisory services, financial aid, and technology transfer to member countries. International Collaboration: Works with UN agencies (FAO, IFAD, UNESCO, UNDP, ICA) for rural development projects. Promotes Sustainable Agriculture: Focuses on climate-resilient farming, rural infrastructure, and agri-tech innovations.
• Policy Coordination: Acts as a forum for policy dialogues among Asian and African nations.
• Capacity Building: Organizes seminars, workshops, and training programs for rural development.
• Technical Assistance: Provides advisory services, financial aid, and technology transfer to member countries.
• International Collaboration: Works with UN agencies (FAO, IFAD, UNESCO, UNDP, ICA) for rural development projects.
• Promotes Sustainable Agriculture: Focuses on climate-resilient farming, rural infrastructure, and agri-tech innovations.
Tea Horse Road
Source: IE
Context: China’s Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, highlighted the historical significance of the Tea Horse Road, emphasizing its role in India-China trade through Tibet.
• The ancient route spanning 2,000 km facilitated the massive tea trade from China to India via Himalayan passes.
About Tea Horse Road:
• What is it?
• The Tea Horse Road, also called Chamadao, was an ancient trade route connecting China, Tibet, and India. It was a major commercial network used for trading tea from China and horses from Tibet.
• The Tea Horse Road, also called Chamadao, was an ancient trade route connecting China, Tibet, and India.
• It was a major commercial network used for trading tea from China and horses from Tibet.
• Connection Between Regions:
• Originated in southwest China (Yunnan & Sichuan) and passed through Tibet, Nepal, and India. Reached Kolkata, from where tea was shipped to Europe and other Asian markets.
• Originated in southwest China (Yunnan & Sichuan) and passed through Tibet, Nepal, and India.
• Reached Kolkata, from where tea was shipped to Europe and other Asian markets.
• How it worked: Trade Goods:
• Trade Goods:
• China exported tea, textiles, rice noodles, and sugar. Tibet supplied horses, gold, saffron, leather, and medicinal herbs. Caravan System: Goods were transported via pack animals like yaks, mules, and horses. Dangerous Terrain: Traders crossed mountains up to 10,000 feet, facing harsh climates and bandit attacks. Tea Packaging: Compressed into bricks for easy transport, used as currency in Tibet.
• China exported tea, textiles, rice noodles, and sugar.
• Tibet supplied horses, gold, saffron, leather, and medicinal herbs. Caravan System: Goods were transported via pack animals like yaks, mules, and horses. Dangerous Terrain: Traders crossed mountains up to 10,000 feet, facing harsh climates and bandit attacks. Tea Packaging: Compressed into bricks for easy transport, used as currency in Tibet.
• Caravan System: Goods were transported via pack animals like yaks, mules, and horses.
• Dangerous Terrain: Traders crossed mountains up to 10,000 feet, facing harsh climates and bandit attacks.
• Tea Packaging: Compressed into bricks for easy transport, used as currency in Tibet.
• The Old Town of Lijiang was an important goods distribution center for trade between Sichuan, Yunnan and Tibet, and is where the Silk Road in the south joins the Ancient Chama (Tea and Horse) Roads.
• Dynastic and Historical Importance:
• Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE): First recorded trade between China and Tibet via the route. Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE): Official tea-for-horses trade markets established at border regions. Ming & Qing Dynasties (1368-1912 CE): Expanded into a major trade network, regulating tea exports and military horse imports. 20th Century: Used in World War II for supply transportation but declined after Mao Zedong’s land reforms (1949).
• Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE): First recorded trade between China and Tibet via the route.
• Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE): Official tea-for-horses trade markets established at border regions.
• Ming & Qing Dynasties (1368-1912 CE): Expanded into a major trade network, regulating tea exports and military horse imports.
• 20th Century: Used in World War II for supply transportation but declined after Mao Zedong’s land reforms (1949).
• Significance of the Tea Horse Road: Facilitated Economic Exchange: Enabled cultural and commercial ties between India, Tibet, and China. Boosted Military Strength: Supplied Tibetan war horses for China’s military campaigns. Cultural Exchange: Helped spread Buddhism, medicinal herbs, and textiles across the Himalayan region. Historical Tourism Today: Parts of the route are being promoted as UNESCO heritage and tourism sites.
• Facilitated Economic Exchange: Enabled cultural and commercial ties between India, Tibet, and China.
• Boosted Military Strength: Supplied Tibetan war horses for China’s military campaigns.
• Cultural Exchange: Helped spread Buddhism, medicinal herbs, and textiles across the Himalayan region.
• Historical Tourism Today: Parts of the route are being promoted as UNESCO heritage and tourism sites.
Impact of Space Travel on Astronaut Health
Source: ET, IT
Context: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the International Space Station for over nine months due to spacecraft issues, highlighting health risks of prolonged space missions as they prepare to return to Earth.
About Impact of Space Travel on Astronaut Health:
Impact on Body Organs:
• Brain & Nervous System:
• Increased intracranial pressure affects vision (Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome – SANS).
• Expansion of cerebral ventricles, leading to cognitive decline.
• Higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases due to radiation exposure.
• Cardiovascular System:
• Weakened heart muscles, increasing post-flight blood pressure regulation issues.
• Greater risk of cardiovascular diseases due to microgravity and radiation.
• Bones & Muscles:
• Bone density loss (osteopenia) and muscle atrophy, making astronauts prone to fractures.
• Reduced bone mineral density by 2.1% after long missions, with some never recovering fully.
• Immune System:
• Increased vulnerability to infections due to immune dysregulation.
• Elevated stress hormone levels suppress immune
• Vision & Vestibular Function:
• Fluids shift toward the head, leading to optic nerve swelling and vision impairment.
• Balance and coordination issues post-flight due to vestibular dysfunction.
• Psychological Health:
• Isolation, confinement, and lack of natural stimuli contribute to depression and mood disorders.
• Sleep disturbances due to disrupted circadian rhythms.
Reasons Behind These Health Impacts:
• Microgravity Exposure: Lack of gravity affects bone density, muscle strength, and fluid distribution.
• Space Radiation: No atmospheric protection, exposing astronauts to high-energy cosmic radiation, increasing cancer risks.
• Enclosed & Isolated Environments: Confinement and lack of social interactions impact mental well-being.
• Limited Medical Support: No immediate access to specialized medical care, making health management challenging.
Does Space Travel Cause Permanent Changes?
• Short-Term Missions (Few Days): 95% of physiological effects reverse after return to Earth.
• Long-Duration Missions (Months to Years): Recovery proportional to time spent in space however, some effects like bone loss, neuro-ocular syndrome, and cardiovascular changes can be permanent.
Project Farm Vibes
Source: TH
Context: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted Project Farm Vibes in Baramati, showcasing how AI-driven solutions improved crop yield by 40% and reduced fertilizer use by 25%.
• The Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, in collaboration with Microsoft, is expanding this AI-driven experiment from 1,000 farmers to 50,000 farmers.
About Project Farm Vibes:
• What is Project Farm Vibes?
• A suite of AI-driven agricultural technologies developed by Microsoft Research to enhance farming efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. Uses satellite data, IoT sensors, drones, and AI algorithms to generate actionable insights for farmers.
• A suite of AI-driven agricultural technologies developed by Microsoft Research to enhance farming efficiency, sustainability, and productivity.
• Uses satellite data, IoT sensors, drones, and AI algorithms to generate actionable insights for farmers.
• Organizations Associated: Microsoft Research & Azure AI Team, Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, Oxford University AI Researchers
• How AI Transformed Agriculture in Baramati: Sensor Fusion Technology: Integrated real-time data from drones, satellites, and soil sensors to optimize farm operations. AI-Powered Insights:AI analyzed soil moisture, temperature, pH levels, and humidity, offering data-driven recommendations. Vernacular AI Assistance: Farmers accessed AI-generated advice in their local language, making technology more accessible and user-friendly. Precision Farming: Spot fertilization techniques reduced chemical use by 25%, improving soil health and sustainability. Climate-Responsive Farming: AI monitored weather patterns and field conditions, enabling better water management and crop scheduling.
• Sensor Fusion Technology: Integrated real-time data from drones, satellites, and soil sensors to optimize farm operations.
• AI-Powered Insights:AI analyzed soil moisture, temperature, pH levels, and humidity, offering data-driven recommendations.
• Vernacular AI Assistance: Farmers accessed AI-generated advice in their local language, making technology more accessible and user-friendly.
• Precision Farming: Spot fertilization techniques reduced chemical use by 25%, improving soil health and sustainability.
• Climate-Responsive Farming: AI monitored weather patterns and field conditions, enabling better water management and crop scheduling.
• Impact on Agriculture: 40% Increase in Crop Yield: AI-driven insights led to better farming practices and higher productivity. 25% Reduction in Fertilizer Costs: Precision farming minimized chemical overuse, improving cost-effectiveness. 50% Water Conservation: AI-enhanced irrigation strategies optimized water usage, making farming more sustainable. Shorter Crop Cycle: Sugarcane harvest time reduced from 18 to 12 months, increasing profitability for farmers. 12% Reduction in Post-Harvest Losses: AI applications streamlined logistics and storage, cutting wastage.
• 40% Increase in Crop Yield: AI-driven insights led to better farming practices and higher productivity.
• 25% Reduction in Fertilizer Costs: Precision farming minimized chemical overuse, improving cost-effectiveness.
• 50% Water Conservation: AI-enhanced irrigation strategies optimized water usage, making farming more sustainable.
• Shorter Crop Cycle: Sugarcane harvest time reduced from 18 to 12 months, increasing profitability for farmers.
• 12% Reduction in Post-Harvest Losses: AI applications streamlined logistics and storage, cutting wastage.
National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
Source: TOI
Context: The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) removed 900 peer reviewers following corruption allegations linked to bribery in accreditation grading.
About National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC):
• What is NAAC?
• NAAC is an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC) responsible for assessing and accrediting higher education institutions (HEIs) in India.
• NAAC is an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC) responsible for assessing and accrediting higher education institutions (HEIs) in India.
• Established In: Founded in 1994, following recommendations from the National Policy on Education (1986) and Programme of Action (1992).
• History & Evolution:
• Created to address the deterioration in higher education quality in India. Initially focused on voluntary accreditation, but later made mandatory for funding and recognition.
• Created to address the deterioration in higher education quality in India.
• Initially focused on voluntary accreditation, but later made mandatory for funding and recognition.
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Aims of NAAC: Enhance Education Quality: Evaluate and ensure standards in higher education institutions. Promote Institutional Accountability: Encourage self-evaluation and transparency in HEIs. Facilitate Accreditation & Ranking: Provide grading based on performance for academic institutions. Encourage Research & Innovation: Support institutions to improve academic and research excellence. Strengthen Higher Education Policy: Assist the UGC and Government in policy formulation.
• Enhance Education Quality: Evaluate and ensure standards in higher education institutions.
• Promote Institutional Accountability: Encourage self-evaluation and transparency in HEIs.
• Facilitate Accreditation & Ranking: Provide grading based on performance for academic institutions.
• Encourage Research & Innovation: Support institutions to improve academic and research excellence.
• Strengthen Higher Education Policy: Assist the UGC and Government in policy formulation.
• Functions & Powers of NAAC: Institutional Accreditation: Assesses colleges, universities, and deemed-to-be universities. Eight-Grade CGPA Grading System: Institutions are ranked from A++ to D, with D being unaccredited. Periodic Review & Compliance: Monitors institutions and ensures quality control measures. Online & Hybrid Evaluation Model: Implements virtual assessments for transparency. Fraud Prevention & Integrity Measures: Prevents corruption, bias, and bribery in grading.
• Institutional Accreditation: Assesses colleges, universities, and deemed-to-be universities.
• Eight-Grade CGPA Grading System: Institutions are ranked from A++ to D, with D being unaccredited.
• Periodic Review & Compliance: Monitors institutions and ensures quality control measures.
• Online & Hybrid Evaluation Model: Implements virtual assessments for transparency.
• Fraud Prevention & Integrity Measures: Prevents corruption, bias, and bribery in grading.
Internet Shutdown in India
Source: DH
Context: India recorded 84 internet shutdowns in 2024, the highest among democratic countries, according to Access Now’s report.
• It is the first time in six years that India did not top the global list, with Myanmar surpassing India with 85 shutdowns.
About Internet Shutdown in India:
• What is an Internet Shutdown? A government-imposed disruption of internet services to restrict access to online communication platforms. Often used during protests, communal violence, exams, elections, and security operations.
• A government-imposed disruption of internet services to restrict access to online communication platforms.
• Often used during protests, communal violence, exams, elections, and security operations.
• Laws Governing Internet Shutdowns in India: Indian Telegraph Act (1885): Allows shutdowns in cases of “public emergency” or “public safety,” but lacks clear definitions. Section 144 of CrPC (Pre-2017): Used to impose internet bans under public safety concerns. Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (2017): Requires approval from a review committee within 48 hours and mandates transparency in shutdowns.
• Indian Telegraph Act (1885): Allows shutdowns in cases of “public emergency” or “public safety,” but lacks clear definitions.
• Section 144 of CrPC (Pre-2017): Used to impose internet bans under public safety concerns.
• Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (2017): Requires approval from a review committee within 48 hours and mandates transparency in shutdowns.
• Global Ranking of Internet Shutdowns (2024 Report)
• State-wise Internet Shutdowns in India (2024) Manipur – 21 shutdowns (Highest) Haryana – 12 shutdowns Jammu & Kashmir – 12 shutdowns
• Manipur – 21 shutdowns (Highest)
• Haryana – 12 shutdowns
• Jammu & Kashmir – 12 shutdowns
• Reasons for Internet Shutdowns in India (2024) Protests – 41 shutdowns Communal violence – 23 shutdowns Government job exams – 5 shutdowns
• Protests – 41 shutdowns
• Communal violence – 23 shutdowns
• Government job exams – 5 shutdowns
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS –25 February 2025 Mapping:
Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)
Source: NIE
Context: Munda tribals of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Odisha, protested against being denied access to their sacred groves, which have been turned into a tiger enclosure for translocated tigress Zeenat.
About Similipal Tiger Reserve:
• Location: Situated in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• Declared a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1973 and a wildlife sanctuary in 1979. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009 under the Global Network of Biosphere Reserves.
• Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009 under the Global Network of Biosphere Reserves.
• Flora & Fauna: Dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests with semi-evergreen patches. Hosts the highest tiger population in Odisha along with elephants and hill mynahs.
• Dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests with semi-evergreen patches.
• Hosts the highest tiger population in Odisha along with elephants and hill mynahs.
• Unique Features: Waterfalls: Joranda & Barehipani waterfalls add to its scenic beauty. High Peaks: Khairiburu and Meghashini (1515m above sea level) are the highest peaks. Part of Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve: Connected with Hadgarh & Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuaries. Conservation Legacy: Known for Padma Shri Saroj Raj Chowdhury, its founder, and his fostered tigress Khairi.
• Waterfalls: Joranda & Barehipani waterfalls add to its scenic beauty.
• High Peaks: Khairiburu and Meghashini (1515m above sea level) are the highest peaks.
• Part of Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve: Connected with Hadgarh & Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• Conservation Legacy: Known for Padma Shri Saroj Raj Chowdhury, its founder, and his fostered tigress Khairi.
About Munda Tribe:
• Habitat: Primarily found in Chhotanagpur Plateau covering Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, and Bangladesh. Additionally, Similipal Tiger Reserve is home to two indigenous tribes, the Erenga Kharias and Mankirdias, who practice traditional agriculture.
• Additionally, Similipal Tiger Reserve is home to two indigenous tribes, the Erenga Kharias and Mankirdias, who practice traditional agriculture.
• One of the largest Scheduled Tribes in India, with significant populations in Similipal Tiger Reserve.
• Historical Significance: Ancient Presence: Munda languages arrived in India 4,000 years ago from Southeast Asia. British Resistance: Munda freedom fighter Birsa Munda led anti-British revolts, advocating for Munda Raj.
• Ancient Presence: Munda languages arrived in India 4,000 years ago from Southeast Asia.
• British Resistance: Munda freedom fighter Birsa Munda led anti-British revolts, advocating for Munda Raj.
• Culture & Traditions: Clan System: Patrilineal clans (Killi), believed to descend from a common ancestor. Traditional Occupation: Hunter-gatherers turned farmers, skilled in weaving & basket-making. Sacred Groves & Rituals: Worship nature, practice animism, and conduct sacred rites at burial sites. Folk Music & Dance: Known for Sarhul festival, Karam festival, and indigenous songs & dance. Totemic Beliefs: Each clan has a totemic animal or plant, symbolizing its identity.
• Clan System: Patrilineal clans (Killi), believed to descend from a common ancestor.
• Traditional Occupation: Hunter-gatherers turned farmers, skilled in weaving & basket-making.
• Sacred Groves & Rituals: Worship nature, practice animism, and conduct sacred rites at burial sites.
• Folk Music & Dance: Known for Sarhul festival, Karam festival, and indigenous songs & dance.
• Totemic Beliefs: Each clan has a totemic animal or plant, symbolizing its identity.
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 25 Feb 2025
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