Lithium Deposits in Karnataka's Mandya and Yadgiri Districts    
Role and Power of Governor    
Assam’s Charaideo Maidam    
Solid Waste Management in India    
International Relations of India and Ukraine    
GAGANYAAN - Indian Human Spaceflight Programme    
Plough to Plate: Natural Farming Unleashed    
NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India)    

1.    Lithium Deposits in Karnataka's Mandya and Yadgiri Districts
Context:
•    Announcement: Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, informed the Rajya Sabha about the discovery of Lithium deposits in the Mandya and Yadgiri districts of Karnataka.
Key Details:
•    Exploration and Findings:
o    The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) found Lithium resources in Mandya and Yadgiri.
o    Established 1,600 tonnes (G3 stage) of Lithium resources in Marlagalla area, Mandya district.
o    Preliminary surveys and limited subsurface exploration were conducted in Yadgiri district.
•    Additional Exploration:
o    AMD is exploring potential geological domains in Korba District, Chhattisgarh.
o    Major mica belts in Rajasthan, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and pegmatite belts in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka are considered potential domains for Lithium resources.
International Cooperation:
•    The Government of India and the Government of the Russian Federation have expressed interest in expanding cooperation in the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, including Small Modular Reactors.
Significance of Lithium Reserves Introduction:
•    Discovery in Jammu and Kashmir: Geological Survey of India (GSI) established 5.9 million tonnes of inferred Lithium resources in Salal-Haimana area of Reasi District,

Jammu and Kashmir. This discovery is crucial for India’s transition towards green mobility due to Lithium’s use in Electric Vehicles (EVs).
About Lithium and Its Uses:
•    Properties: Lithium is a soft, shiny grey metal, highly reactive and alkaline.
•    Applications: Used in ceramics, glass, telecommunications, aerospace industries, Lithium-ion batteries, lubricating grease, rocket propellants, optical modulators, and alloys with aluminium and magnesium.
Current Status of Lithium Reserves and Extraction:
•    Global Demand: Demand for Lithium and cobalt is expected to rise by nearly 500% by 2050 (World Bank study).
•    EV Market Projection: The global EV market is projected to reach USD 823.75 billion by 2030; India’s market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 23.76% by 2028.
India’s Lithium Reserves:
•    Karnataka: AMD survey identified 1,600 tonnes of Lithium resources in Mandya district.
•    Jammu and Kashmir: Discovery of 5.9 million metric tonnes of Lithium reserves in the J&K region.
Global Lithium Reserves:
•    Lithium Triangle: Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina in South America. China controls 77% of the global Lithium-ion battery manufacturing capacity.
Government Efforts in Exploring Lithium Reserves:
•    Atomic Energy Act, 1962: Permits AMD to explore Lithium in various geological domains.
•    National Mineral Exploration Policy, 2016: Recognizes the need to explore these minerals.
•    Geological Survey of India (GSI): Conducts different stages of mineral exploration following United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC) guidelines.

Significance of Lithium Reserves for India Reducing Dependence on Imports:
•    India imported Lithium worth approximately INR 14,000 crores in FY2021-2022. Domestic reserves will reduce import dependence.
Affordable Transition:
•    Indigenous Lithium supply will make the EV ecosystem more affordable, aiding the transition to green mobility.
Government Objectives:
•    Supports India’s plan of 30% EV penetration in private cars, 70% in commercial vehicles, and 80% in two and three-wheelers by 2030.
Potential to Become Major Producer:
•    The discovery in water-rich regions positions India as a potential global supplier, contrasting with water-scarce regions currently dominating Lithium production.
Challenges in Extraction of Lithium Geological Stability:
•    Jammu and Kashmir fall under seismologically active Zones IV and V, making mining challenging.
Environmental Consequences:
•    Extraction involves open-pit mining and refining, leading to significant environmental degradation.
Environmental Justice:
•    Lithium mining has raised socio-environmental issues, impacting local populations.
Mining Policy:
•    Lack of integrated mining policy for strategic metals and minerals and poor domestic capabilities could hinder exploitation.
Availability of Technology:

•    India lacks the technology to extract and purify Lithium, requiring expertise and technological transfer.
Recommendations
1.    Technology Transfers: Collaborate with foreign entities for short-term technology transfer while developing domestic expertise.
2.    India Rare Earths Mission: Establish a mission to reduce reliance on China, encourage private sector mining, and diversify supply sources.
3.    Public Sector Focus: Split Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) into entities focusing on Thorium mining and other strategic minerals, including Lithium.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the discovery of Lithium reserves in India, consider the following statements:
1.    The Geological Survey of India discovered 5.9 million tonnes of Lithium in Jammu and Kashmir.
2.    Lithium is primarily used in the aerospace industry for manufacturing lightweight alloys.
3.    India has technology to extract and purify Lithium independently. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1 only
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the potential economic and environmental impacts of the recently discovered Lithium reserves in India. How can India balance the demand for this strategic mineral with sustainable mining practices? 
2.    Role and Power of Governor
Why in News?
The Governor acts in a 'Dual Capacity': as the Constitutional head of the state and as the
representative of the Union government.
•    Recent friction between states and Governors involves issues such as:
o    Selection of the party to form a government.
o    Deadline for proving majority.
o    Sitting on Bills.
o    Passing negative remarks on state administration.
•    Due to these conflicts, the Governor is sometimes referred to negatively as an agent of the Centre, puppet, and rubber stamp.
Constitutional Provisions Related to the Governor
•    Article 153: There shall be a Governor for each State. One person can be appointed as Governor for two or more States.
•    A Governor is appointed by the President and is a nominee of the Central Government.
•    The Governor has a dual role:
o    Constitutional head of the state, bound by the advice of his Council of Ministers (CoM).
o    Functions as a vital link between the Union Government and the State Government.
•    Articles 157 and 158: Specify eligibility requirements for the post of Governor.
•    Article 161: Grants the Governor the power to grant pardons, reprieves, etc.
•    Article 163: There is a CoM with the CM at the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions, except in some conditions for discretion.
•    Article 164: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other Ministers. 
•    Article 200: The Governor assents, withholds assent, or reserves the bill for the consideration of the President passed by the Legislative Assembly.
Friction Points in Governor-State Relations
•    The Governor is envisaged as an apolitical head who must act on the advice of the council of ministers but enjoys certain discretionary powers:
o    Giving or withholding assent to a Bill passed by the state legislature.
o    No clear provisions for the manner of public engagement between the Governor and the state in case of differences of opinion.
•    Although the Governor has a 5-year tenure, they can remain in office only until the pleasure of the President.
•    In 2001, the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution held that the Governor owes his appointment and continuation to the Union.
•    No limit on how long a Governor can withhold assent to a Bill. Suggested Reforms
•    Punchhi Commission (2010) recommendations:
o    Provision for the impeachment of the Governor by the state legislature.
o    The state Chief Minister should have a say in the Governor’s appointment. Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the role and powers of the Governor in India, consider the following statements:
1.    A Governor can be appointed for two or more states.
2.    The Governor has discretionary powers to assent or withhold assent to a Bill passed by the state legislature.
3.    The Governor is appointed by the Chief Minister of the state. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the dual role of the Governor in India and the associated challenges in Governor-State relations. Suggest reforms to address these challenges.

3.    Assam’s Charaideo Maidam
Why in News?
•    The Assam Chief Minister announced that the Central Government decided to send a proposal to UNESCO nominating Charaideo Maidam of the Ahom Kingdom as a World Heritage Site.
What is Charaideo Maidam?
•    Charaideo, commonly known as the ‘Pyramids of Assam’, was the original capital of the Ahom Kings.
•    Despite the capital moving multiple times, Charaideo remained the symbolic center of the Ahom Kingdom.
•    Built by Chaolung Sukhapa, the founder of the dynasty, around 1229 CE. Location
•    Located at the foothills of Nagaland, approximately 30 KM from the historical town of Sivsagar in Assam.
Why is Charaideo known as the ‘Pyramids of Assam’?
•    Contains sacred burial grounds of Ahom kings and queens and is the place of the ancestral Gods of the Ahoms.
•    Houses around 42 tombs (Maidams) of Ahom kings and queens.
Architecture
•    Consists of a massive underground vault with one or more chambers.

•    Features a domical superstructure covered by an earthen mound, appearing hemispherical externally.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites Definition
•    World Heritage Site: A landmark or area with legal protection by an international convention administered by UNESCO, designated for cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance.
History and Background
•    Post-WWII Concerns: The widespread destruction of cultural sites and nature led to efforts to protect them.
•    1972 Convention: The Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, commonly known as the World Heritage Convention, was drafted.
•    Convention Goals:
o    Preserve the world’s outstanding heritage.
o    Define natural or cultural sites eligible for the World Heritage List by meeting specific criteria.
o    Protect both national heritage and mankind's shared heritage, irrespective of location.
•    Global Commitment: 191 State Parties have ratified the World Heritage Convention, including India, which signed on November 14, 1977.
Current Status
•    1,172 World Heritage Sites across 166 countries:
o    913 Cultural Sites
o    220 Natural Sites
o    39 Mixed Properties The World Heritage Convention

Key Aspects
•    Defines cultural and natural heritage of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) that merits global conservation.
•    Establishes the World Heritage Committee and List.
•    Sites nominated by states are evaluated by designated advisory bodies before being inscribed.
•    Links heritage conservation to sustainable development goals.
•    Sets up the World Heritage Fund to provide assistance for preserving sites.
Selection Criteria for UNESCO World Heritage Site
•    For a site to be inscribed, it must go through a rigorous nomination and evaluation process.
•    UNESCO's Advisory Bodies:
o    International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)
o    International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
•    A site must demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) by meeting one or more criteria defined in the Convention.
World Heritage Sites in India
•    India's Rich Heritage: 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including 34 Cultural, 7 Natural, and 2 Mixed sites.
•    These sites showcase India's diverse cultural traditions and incredible biodiversity and landscapes.
•    Notable Sites: Taj Mahal, Ajanta Caves, Western Ghats, Sundarbans National Park.
FAQs on World Heritage Sites in India
1.    Which was the first World Heritage Site in India?
o    The first sites inscribed from India in 1983 were the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and Agra Fort.
2.    Which Indian state has the most World Heritage Sites?
OASHUB

o    Rajasthan has 6 inscribed World Heritage Sites, the most for any state in India.
3.    What is the selection and evaluation process for World Heritage Sites?
o    Sites nominated by member states are assessed by UNESCO advisory bodies against criteria of Outstanding Universal Value before being inscribed on the World Heritage List if they meet the benchmarks.
4.    What benefits does being a World Heritage Site confer?
o    Promotes conservation, protection, and restoration of the heritage site.
o    Facilitates tourism and boosts prestige.
o    Provides expert advice and access to funding for listed sites.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to Charaideo Maidam, consider the following statements:
1.    Charaideo Maidam was the original capital of the Ahom Kings.
2.    It is known as the 'Pyramids of Assam' due to its sacred burial grounds.
3.    The site is located at the foothills of Meghalaya, 30 KM from Sivsagar. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the historical and cultural significance of Charaideo Maidam in Assam. How can its nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site impact the preservation and promotion of India's heritage?

4.    Solid Waste Management in India
Context:

•    The Solid Waste Management in India remains a significant challenge. The Supreme Court of India recently criticized the solid waste management in New Delhi, noting that more than 3,800 tonnes of untreated solid waste in Delhi alone reach landfills, threatening public health and the environment. Proper steps need to be undertaken for safe disposal and treatment of solid waste in India.
Status of Solid Waste Generation in India:
•    Solid Waste Definition: Solid waste refers to any unwanted or discarded material that is not in a liquid or gaseous state. It includes a wide range of materials from various sources such as households, industries, commercial establishments, construction sites, and institutions.
•    Examples: Paper, plastics, glass, metal, textiles, food scraps, yard waste, and electronic waste.
Data on Solid Waste Generation:
•    Total Quantity per Day: ~1,60,000 Metric Tonnes Per Day (TPD)
•    Waste Collection per Day: ~1,53,000 Metric Tonnes Per Day (TPD)
•    Collection Efficiency: ~96%
•    Waste Treatment per Day: ~80,000 Metric Tonnes Per Day (TPD)
•    Treated Waste: Only 50% of the total waste
•    Waste Landfilled per Day: ~30,000 Metric Tonnes Per Day (TPD)
•    Landfilled Waste: 18.4% of the total waste
Challenges with Solid Waste Management in India:
Rising Waste Generation:
•    Rapid economic growth and rising consumption levels have increased waste generation. The expansion of the digital economy is also leading to a significant increase in e-waste.
Lack of Proper Waste Management:
•    India lacks proper waste management and disposal techniques.

Poor Processing:
•    Only 50% of the waste produced is processed. About 30% of waste is not accounted for, and 20% ends up in landfills.
Inadequate Segregation Techniques:
•    Poor segregation of waste at the source. Hazardous and e-waste is not properly sealed and labeled, leading to improper disposal.
Reuse/Recycling:
•    Reuse and recycling of waste are predominantly informal, lacking access to advanced technology.
Littering and Illegal Dumping:
•    Poor disposal methods lead to uncontrolled dumps and landfills, which generate methane gases, leachates, and landfill fires, affecting the environment.
Lack of Land Resources:
•    Urban areas lack adequate land resources for waste processing plants. For example, Delhi requires large land parcels for treatment plants.
Lack of Public Awareness:
•    Poor public awareness regarding proper waste management practices contributes to littering and improper disposal habits.
Lack of Regular Waste Collection Services:
•    Irregular waste collection services lead to waste buildup and illegal dumping, increasing pressure on municipal bodies.
Harmful Impacts of Poor Waste Management:
Health Issues:
•    Open burning of waste forms harmful particles causing lung diseases.
•    Garbage dumps act as breeding grounds for rats and mosquitoes, which are carriers of diseases like malaria and dengue.
Environmental Issues:

•    Unscientific dumping leads to harmful chemicals permeating the soil and groundwater, rendering it unfit for drinking.
•    Landfills generate harmful gases like methane and carbon dioxide, leading to air pollution.
•    Land-based waste often ends up in the sea, causing marine pollution.
Economic Impacts:
•    Landfills occupy useful land, wasting economic resources.
•    Poor waste management leads to city filth, impacting tourism potential.
•    Poor waste collection clogs drains, contributing to urban flooding and economic losses.
Way Forward:
Scientific Waste Management:
•    Waste management planning should be based on sound scientific and engineering studies, considering waste composition, costs, transport distances, and geographical location of facilities.
Smart Waste Management System:
•    Integrate technology like the Internet of Things (IoT) into waste management. Examples include RFID-Enabled door-to-door waste collection monitoring and GPS- based vehicle tracking for real-time monitoring.
Emphasis on Recycling and Processing:
•    Implement policies supporting recycling and processing of waste. Methods like composting, vermicomposting, and bio-methanation should be adopted for organic waste treatment.
•    Scaling up Waste-to-Energy Projects:
o    Bio-methanation: Uses microorganisms to convert organic waste into methane, which can be used as fuel.

o    Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF): Consists of plastics, paper, and textile waste with good calorific value, used to generate power.
Strict Implementation of Rules:
•    Enforce Waste Management Rules incorporating the ‘Polluter Pays Principle’ to penalize non-compliance.
Increasing Public Awareness:
•    Encourage self-help groups, residents’ welfare associations, and community-based organizations to educate people on beneficial waste management strategies, including separation, recycling, and composting.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to solid waste management in India, consider the following statements:
1.    Approximately 50% of the total solid waste generated in India is treated.
2.    The waste collection efficiency in India is around 96%.
3.    All the waste generated in India is processed properly. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Critically analyze the challenges and impacts of solid waste management in India. Suggest scientific and technological solutions to improve waste management practices.

5.    International Relations of India and Ukraine
Diplomatic Relations:

•    Recognition and Establishment:
o    After the breakup of the Soviet Union, India recognized Ukraine as a sovereign independent country in December 1991.
o    The Embassy of India in Kyiv was established in May 1992, and Ukraine opened its mission in New Delhi in February 1993.
•    Areas of Cooperation:
o    Education: Exchange programs and opportunities for higher studies.
o    Mutual Legal Assistance: Legal cooperation agreements.
o    Outer Space Cooperation: Collaborative projects and research in space technology.
Defence Relations:
•    Military Technology and Equipment:
o    Ukraine has been a significant source of military technology and equipment for India.
o    Ukraine manufactures the R-27 air-to-air missiles, used by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on its SU-30MKI fighters.
•    Bilateral Cooperation:
o    India is now also supplying its weapons to Ukraine to enhance defence cooperation.
Trade:
•    Major Export Destination:
o    India is Ukraine’s largest export destination in the Asia-Pacific and the fifth largest overall export destination.
•    Pharmaceuticals:
o    Pharmaceuticals account for the majority of Indian exports to Ukraine.
Culture:
•    Cultural Associations:

o    More than 30 Ukrainian cultural associations/groups across the country promote Indian dances and cultural exchange.
•    Indian Students:
o Approximately 18,000 Indian students study in Ukraine, mainly in the field of medicine.
•    Indian Professionals:
o    Indian business professionals work predominantly in pharmaceuticals, IT, engineering, medicine, and education.
Challenges:
•    Russia-Ukraine Conflict:
o    The rift between Russia and Ukraine, which escalated into armed conflict when Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014, creates a potential dilemma for India.
•    Russian Objections:
o    Russia has begun objecting to its customers dealing with Ukraine, affecting bilateral relations.
•    Defence Collaboration:
o    Potential trouble exists because the IAF is currently collaborating with Ukraine to overhaul its fleet of AN-32s.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to India-Ukraine relations, consider the following statements:
1.    India recognized Ukraine as an independent country in December 1991.
2.    Pharmaceuticals account for the majority of Indian exports to Ukraine.
3.    Ukraine manufactures the R-27 air-to-air missiles used by the Indian Navy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only

C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the key areas of cooperation between India and Ukraine, highlighting the challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. How can India navigate these challenges while maintaining strong bilateral relations with both countries?

6.    GAGANYAAN - Indian Human Spaceflight Programme
News
•    The article discusses India’s most ambitious space programme, Gaganyaan.
•    Background: The Prime Minister recently announced the names of the four astronauts undergoing training for India's maiden human space flight mission, Gaganyaan.
What is Gaganyaan Mission?
•    Objective: To demonstrate ISRO’s human spaceflight capability by launching a human crew to an orbit of 400 km and bringing them safely back to earth.
Goals of Gaganyaan Mission
•    Short-term Goal: Demonstrate human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit.
•    Long-term Goal: Lay the foundation for a sustained Indian human space exploration programme. India also aims to show the world its capability to indigenously develop this complex technology.
Significance of Gaganyaan Mission Scientific Temper:
•    The mission will help inculcate a scientific temper and creativity, inspiring the next generation of students.
Manned Missions:

•    Develop critical technology for future scientific human space exploration.
Enhanced Private Participation:
•    The success of the mission will encourage the private sector to invest in space technologies. The government has allowed 100% FDI in the space sector.
Foster International Collaboration:
•    India’s technological demonstration will encourage collaboration with like-minded countries for future international space cooperation.
Additional Information
•    Private Participation in India’s Space Sector: The success of Gaganyaan will likely boost private investment and involvement in space technologies, further advancing India’s space capabilities.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to India's Gaganyaan mission, consider the following statements:
1.    Gaganyaan aims to demonstrate ISRO’s human spaceflight capability by launching a human crew to an orbit of 400 km.
2.    The mission's long-term goal is to develop India's capability for human space exploration independently.
3.    The government has allowed 100% FDI in India's space sector. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the significance of India's Gaganyaan mission in fostering scientific temper, enhancing private participation in the space sector, and promoting international

collaboration. What are the potential challenges that India might face in achieving the goals of this mission?

7.    Plough to Plate: Natural Farming Unleashed
Context
•    While the Green Revolution made India self-sufficient in agricultural produce, it also resulted in negative environmental impacts such as soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and depletion of natural resources. Natural farming (NF), which is agriculture as per local ecology (agroecology), is gaining momentum as a sustainable agricultural practice.
Natural Farming The Concept:
•    Chemical-Free Farming: Uses locally available resources and traditional practices, integrates crops, trees, and livestock.
•    Soil Health: Utilizes beneficial microorganisms to improve soil quality and health.
Natural Farming vs Organic Farming:
Organic Farming:
•    Uses traditional methods to grow crops and raise animals without synthetic inputs like fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, GMOs, and growth hormones.
Differences from Natural Farming:
•    Human Intervention: Natural farming emphasizes minimal human intervention and ecosystem mimicry; organic farming uses organic inputs and adheres to specific standards.
•    Fertilizers: Natural farming prohibits any imported fertilizers or soil amendments; organic farming allows compost, mineral rocks, and plant/animal-based fertilizers.

•    Ecological Principles: Natural farming relies on ecological principles for biodiversity, soil health, and crop yield; organic farming optimizes productivity with organic materials.
•    Chemical Use: Natural farming discourages all chemicals; organic farming has approved chemicals safe for humans and the environment.
•    Philosophical Approach: Natural farming reflects nature's wisdom; organic farming is a meticulously designed and regulated holistic system.
Benefits of Natural Farming Environmental Benefits:
Healthy Soil:
•    Techniques like composting and mulching enhance soil fertility by promoting beneficial microorganisms and organic matter, improving water retention, nutrient availability, and crop yields.
Water Conservation:
•    Methods like mulching and drip irrigation retain soil moisture, reducing excessive water usage and aiding sustainable water management.
Reduced Pollution:
•    Replaces chemical fertilizers and pesticides with natural alternatives, significantly reducing soil, water, and air pollution, protecting ecosystems and human health.
Climate Change Mitigation:
•    Lower carbon footprint compared to conventional agriculture; healthy soil acts as a carbon sink, capturing greenhouse gases.
Farmer Benefits:
Reduced Costs:
•    Relies on locally available resources and on-farm inputs like compost and bio- pesticides, lowering dependence on expensive external inputs and improving profitability.

Improved Farm Resilience:
•    Techniques promote soil health and biodiversity, making farms more resilient to extreme weather events like droughts and floods.
Enhanced Farmer Health:
•    Eliminates exposure to harmful chemicals, protecting farmers' health and well-being.
Consumer Benefits:
Safer Food:
•    Produces food free from harmful chemical residues, leading to safer and healthier consumption.
Improved Food Quality:
•    Studies suggest naturally grown food has higher levels of antioxidants and beneficial nutrients, improving health outcomes.
Support for Sustainable Agriculture:
•    Consumers choosing natural food products support a sustainable and ethical agricultural system benefiting the environment and farmers.
Challenges Related to Natural Farming Limited Market:
•    NF products often lack premium prices due to insufficient differentiated markets, standards, and protocols. Lack of certification and standardization makes it hard to distinguish from organic or conventional farming.
Lower Initial Yields:
•    Building healthy soil ecosystems takes time, leading to lower initial yields compared to conventional methods. For example, paddy yields in Andhra Pradesh were 20% lower in the first year of natural farming, gradually matching conventional yields within three years.
Lack of Awareness and Training:

•    Many farmers lack knowledge and practical skills in natural farming techniques, with limited access to training programs and extension services. In Himachal Pradesh, government initiatives to promote NF are hindered by farmers' lack of awareness.
Availability and Affordability of Organic Inputs:
•    High cost of organic inputs, like cotton seeds, discourages adoption despite long-term benefits.
Pest and Disease Management:
•    Ecological methods for pest and disease control can be less effective in the short term compared to chemical pesticides. For example, apple growers in Jammu and Kashmir face challenges managing codling moth infestations naturally.
Measures to Promote Natural Farming
Developing Alternative and Differentiated Markets:
Public Distribution System (PDS):
•    Integrating NF produce into the PDS provides a stable market for farmers and ensures availability of healthy, chemical-free food.
Utilize Existing Mechanisms:
•    Leverage Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies and Marketing Federations.
•    Collaborate with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for efficient production, procurement, and distribution.
Mid-day Meal Programme:
•    Shift from importing food to using local decentralized systems, involving local production, procurement, storage, and distribution using nearby produce with FPO participation. Emphasize local crops for local requirements.
Dedicated Haats:
•    Dedicate some of the 43,000 village markets (haats) in states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu to certified NF produce with backward integration.
Prelims Question

Question: With reference to Natural Farming in India, consider the following statements:
1.    Natural farming uses imported fertilizers and soil amendments.
2.    It relies on ecological principles and minimal human intervention.
3.    Natural farming prohibits the use of any chemicals. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the benefits and challenges of Natural Farming in India. What measures can be taken to promote its adoption among farmers?

8.    NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India)
Overview
•    NITI Aayog is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India (GoI), playing a pivotal role in shaping the strategic long-term policies and programs for the country.
•    It serves as a dynamic platform, providing both directional and policy inputs to the GoI and offers relevant technical advice to the Centre and States.
•    The core mission includes providing critical directional and strategic input into the development process and being the incubator of ideas for development.
Establishment of NITI Aayog
•    The Planning Commission was established in March 1950 to oversee the nation’s economic strategy through centrally devised five-year plans.

•    The Planning Commission faced criticism for being too centralized, rigid, and not reflecting the diverse needs of India’s states and the evolving global economic landscape.
•    The Planning Commission was scrapped on August 13, 2014.
•    NITI Aayog was established on January 1, 2015, as a successor to the Planning Commission, through an Executive Resolution of the GoI.
•    NITI Aayog is neither a Constitutional Body nor a Statutory Body.
Composition of NITI Aayog Chairperson:
•    The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio chairman.
Governing Council:
•    Comprises Chief Ministers of all States, Chief Ministers of the Union Territories with Legislatures (Delhi, Puducherry, Jammu and Kashmir), and Lt. Governors of the Union Territories without Legislatures.
Regional Councils:
•    Formed for specific tenures to address specific issues impacting more than one state or region.
•    Chaired by the Prime Minister or his/her nominee and comprises Chief Ministers of the States and Lt. Governors of the Union Territories in the region.
Special Invitees:
•    Experts, Specialists, and Practitioners nominated by the Prime Minister with relevant domain knowledge.
Full-Time Organizational Framework:
•    Chairperson: The Prime Minister of India.
•    Vice-Chairperson: Appointed by the Prime Minister, enjoying the rank of a Cabinet Minister.
•    Full-time Members: Enjoy the rank of a Minister of State.

•    Part-time Members: Maximum of 2 from leading universities, research organizations, and other relevant institutions in an ex-officio capacity on a rotation basis.
•    Ex-Officio Members: A maximum of 4 members of the Union Council of Ministers nominated by the Prime Minister.
•    Chief Executive Officer: Appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed tenure, in the rank of Secretary to the GoI.
•    Secretariat: As deemed necessary.
Objectives of NITI Aayog
•    To evolve a shared vision of national development priorities, sectors, and strategies with the active involvement of States.
•    To foster cooperative federalism through structured support initiatives and mechanisms with the States.
•    To develop mechanisms to formulate credible plans at the village level and aggregate these progressively at higher levels.
•    To ensure that national security interests are incorporated in economic strategy and policy.
•    To pay special attention to sections of society at risk of not benefiting adequately from economic progress.
•    To create a knowledge, innovation, and entrepreneurial support system through collaboration with national and international experts.
•    To offer a platform for the resolution of inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues to accelerate the implementation of the development agenda.
•    To focus on technology upgradation and capacity building for the implementation of programs and initiatives.
NITI Aayog and Cooperative Federalism
•    One of the foremost goals is to actualize Cooperative Federalism in India.

•    Acts as a platform bringing the Centre and States together as ‘Team India’ to work towards the national development agenda.
Steps Taken to Promote Cooperative Federalism
•    Meetings between the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and all Chief Ministers.
•    Subgroups of Chief Ministers on subjects of national importance.
•    Sharing of best practices.
•    Policy support and capacity development of State/Union Territory functionaries.
•    Launching the Aspirational Districts Programme for the development of backward districts.
•    Theme-based extensive engagements in various sectors.
•    Framing model laws for land leasing and agriculture marketing reforms.
•    Area-specific interventions for the North Eastern and Himalayan States and island development.
•    Providing relevant technical advice to the Centre, States, and UTs.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to NITI Aayog, consider the following statements:
1.    NITI Aayog is a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament.
2.    The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio chairman of NITI Aayog.
3.    NITI Aayog was established to replace the Planning Commission. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the role of NITI Aayog in promoting cooperative federalism in India. How has NITI Aayog contributed to the development agenda and what are its key initiatives?