DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS

The Yellow-crested cockatoos (Cacatua sulphurea) in Hong Kong are facing a growing challenge in terms of their natural nesting sites. Due to the combined threats of typhoons, tree trimming, and urban development, these birds are losing access to the natural habitats that they rely on for nesting. In response to this, conservationists in Hong Kong have stepped in by installing artificial nest boxes.

About Yellow-Crested Cockatoos:

• Scientific Name: Cacatua sulphurea

• Appearance: This medium-sized cockatoo is recognized for its striking yellow or orange crest that can be retracted. Its plumage is predominantly white, and the crest is often curved forwards, adding to its distinctive look.

• Habitat: These birds typically inhabit forests, forest edges, and scrublands, and they are also found in cultivated areas. They live at elevations ranging from sea level to about 1500 meters.

Distribution:

• Native Range: The Yellow-crested cockatoo is native to the islands of East Timor and Indonesia, particularly Sulawesi and the Lesser Sundas.

• Introduced Range: In Hong Kong, the population of Yellow-crested cockatoos has grown from caged birds that were once released into the wild. These birds have adapted to the urban environment and now form part of the local wildlife.

Diet and Feeding:

• Omnivorous Diet: Yellow-crested cockatoos are not picky eaters. Their diet is composed primarily of seeds, fruits, nuts, and berries, but they also occasionally feed on insects, small reptiles, and roots.

Social and Behavioral Traits:

• Monogamous: Yellow-crested cockatoos are known for their strong pair bonds. They are monogamous and typically stay with the same mate for life.

• Gregarious Nature: These birds are very social, living in groups, and are highly intelligent, with the ability to mimic sounds and voices. Their social nature helps in maintaining tight-knit family groups.

Breeding Season:

• The breeding season for Yellow-crested cockatoos typically runs from September to May. During this time, they rely heavily on suitable nesting sites, such as large, hollow trees, to lay their eggs and rear their chicks.

Threats to Yellow-Crested Cockatoos:

• Illegal Pet Trade: One of the most pressing issues these birds face is the illegal pet trade. Their striking appearance and ability to mimic human speech make them highly sought after as pets.

• Habitat Loss: Deforestation, urbanization, and climate change are reducing the availability of suitable habitats for the Yellow-crested cockatoo.

• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and increasingly dry conditions are affecting the forests these birds depend on, making them more vulnerable to fires and other weather-related threats.

Conservation Status:

• The IUCN Red List classifies the Yellow-crested cockatoo as Critically Endangered, primarily due to the threats of habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.

Recently, an elite military unit in Madagascar has taken control of the country after a national assembly vote led to the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina. The military backing of youth-led anti-government street protests marked a dramatic shift in the nation's political landscape. This development follows a period of intense political turmoil and unrest within Madagascar.

About Madagascar

Madagascar is an island nation in East Africa, situated in the Indian Ocean about 400 km off the coast of Mozambique. It is one of the largest island nations in the world and has a rich history and unique biodiversity.

Geographical Details:

• Location: Located off the southeastern coast of Africa, separated by the Mozambique Channel.

• Size: It is the second-largest island in the world, covering an area of 592,800 sq.km.

• Nearby Islands: To the east are Mauritius and Réunion (a French overseas territory). To the northwest are Mayotte (French territory) and Comoros.

• Highest Point: The Tsaratanana Massif region in the north hosts the highest peak of the island, Maromokotro, at 2,876 meters.

Capital: Antananarivo

• The capital is located in the central highlands, serving as the political and economic hub of Madagascar.

Languages:

• Malagasy (the official language) and French are the main languages spoken.

Government:

• Semi-Presidential Republic: Madagascar has a system where the president is elected by the public and appoints a prime minister to head the government. The country has experienced political instability with periodic coups and military interventions.

Historical Background

• Colonial Era: Madagascar was invaded by France in 1883 and officially became a French colony in 1896.

• Independence: After a violent uprising in 1947 (known as the Malagasy Uprising), Madagascar gained independence from France on June 26, 1960.

• Political Landscape: The country has faced several coups, military rule, and political instability throughout its post-independence history.

Economy

• Agriculture: The economy of Madagascar is predominantly agriculture-based, with 80% of its GDP derived from industries like forestry, fishing, and agriculture.

  • Key exports include coffee, vanilla, sugarcane, and other agricultural products.

• Challenges: Despite its natural resources, Madagascar's economy faces challenges such as political instability, poverty, and environmental degradation.

Biodiversity

Madagascar is famous for its unique biodiversity due to its long isolation from other landmasses.

• High Rate of Endemism: Around 90% of the plants and animals found in Madagascar are endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world.

  • The rainforests, deserts, and grasslands host a variety of rare species, such as the lemur, which is synonymous with the island.

  • The island is also home to unique ecosystems, such as coral reefs and mangrove forests along the coastlines.

The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) is a prominent research institution in India, focusing on environmental science and engineering. It conducts research and develops innovative solutions for environmental management and pollution control.

Key Details about NEERI:

• Establishment: NEERI was founded in 1958 in Nagpur as the Central Public Health Engineering Research Institute (CPHERI). Initially, its focus was on human health issues, particularly in the fields of water supply, sewage disposal, and communicable diseases.

• Renaming: In 1974, the institute was renamed National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) to reflect a broader focus on environmental concerns beyond human health, including industrial pollution and occupational diseases.

• Current Mission: NEERI's core mission is to conduct research and development activities in the fields of environmental management, pollution control, and sustainable development. The institute provides solutions to industrial, governmental, and public challenges related to the environment.

• Zonal Laboratories: NEERI has five zonal laboratories located in key cities:

  • Chennai

  • Delhi

  • Hyderabad

  • Kolkata

  • Mumbai

• Funding and Governance: NEERI is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.

Green Crackers by NEERI:

• Definition: Green crackers are firecrackers that have been modified to reduce the emission of harmful chemicals and particulate matter, which traditionally contribute to air pollution during festivals like Diwali.

• Approved by NEERI: NEERI’s research has contributed to the development of green crackers that are safer and less polluting than traditional firecrackers.

NEERI's Contributions to Environmental Management

NEERI has been at the forefront of environmental research and innovation in India. Its key areas of work include:

• Pollution Control: Researching methods to control and reduce pollution in air, water, and soil.

• Sustainable Development: Promoting practices and technologies that support sustainable resource usage and environmental conservation.

• Waste Management: Developing solutions for efficient waste treatment and recycling to reduce environmental damage.

• Climate Change: NEERI also works on projects related to climate change and developing strategies for adaptation and mitigation.

Conclusion

NEERI continues to play a critical role in environmental conservation and pollution control in India. The recent decision regarding green crackers highlights the institute’s contribution to addressing environmental challenges while still allowing cultural practices like Diwali celebrations to continue in a more sustainable manner.

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has recently announced the 35th National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025, inviting applications to recognize and honor outstanding contributions in energy efficiency and conservation across various sectors in India.

About the National Energy Conservation Awards

The National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) is one of the most prestigious national platforms aimed at recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in energy efficiency and conservation.

• Instituted by: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in 1991.

• Objective: To honor industries, buildings, transport undertakings, and institutions for their efforts in reducing energy consumption and enhancing energy efficiency.

• Purpose: To inspire industries, organizations, and individuals to adopt energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices in their operations.

Key Categories for NECA 2025

The NECA 2025 will feature several categories to recognize the efforts of different sectors:

1. Industries: For significant contributions to reducing energy consumption and enhancing efficiency in industrial processes.

2. Transport: Recognizing efforts in improving energy efficiency in the transport sector.

3. Buildings: Acknowledging energy-efficient practices in the construction and management of buildings.

4. Institutions (State/SDA - Evaluation through State EE Index): Recognizing educational and other institutions with significant energy-saving measures.

5. Energy-Efficient Appliances: Awards for manufacturers of energy-efficient appliances.

6. Energy Efficiency Innovation: Recognizing innovations in energy efficiency technologies and practices.

7. Content Creators and Influencers (New Category): A new category recognizing the role of digital content creators and influencers in spreading awareness about energy conservation and promoting energy-conscious lifestyles.

Significance of the New Category

In line with the growing importance of social media and digital platforms, the "Digital Content Creators and Influencers" category has been introduced. This category acknowledges the role of:

• Social media influencers and content creators in influencing public behavior and spreading awareness about energy conservation.

• Inspiring millions of citizens to adopt energy-efficient and sustainable lifestyles through digital platforms.

This initiative seeks to leverage the power of digital content and influencers to act as ambassadors of change, encouraging energy conservation among the masses.

Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) was set up on March 1, 2002, under the provisions of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001, to promote energy efficiency and conservation in India.

• Mission: BEE works to develop policies and strategies focused on self-regulation and market principles within the framework of the Energy Conservation Act.

• Primary Objective: To reduce the energy intensity of the Indian economy and promote sustainable energy usage.

• Functions: The BEE coordinates with designated consumers, agencies, and organizations to implement energy efficiency measures across various sectors.

Conclusion

The National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025 presents an excellent opportunity to acknowledge the exemplary efforts made by various sectors in reducing energy consumption and promoting energy efficiency.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation recently inaugurated India’s first cooperative multi-feed CBG plant in Kopargaon, Maharashtra

Key Highlights of the CBG Plant

• Daily Production: The plant is set to produce 12 tons of Compressed Biogas (CBG) daily, along with 75 tons of potash derived from jaggery/molasses. This will contribute to reducing India's import of potash and energy dependence.

• Location: Kopargaon, Maharashtra – a significant site for this pioneering renewable energy initiative.

• Feedstock: The CBG plant will primarily use agricultural residue, cattle dung, sugarcane press mud, and sewage to produce the biogas.

About Compressed Biogas (CBG)

CBG is a renewable fuel derived from organic waste through anaerobic digestion, a process where organic materials like biomass and agricultural waste are broken down by bacteria in the absence of oxygen. The result is a cleaner, eco-friendly fuel with similar calorific value to CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), and it can replace CNG in various sectors.

Properties and Benefits of CBG

1. Eco-Friendly:

   • CBG is a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. It helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which supports India’s long-term net zero emissions target by 2070.

   • It also contributes to reducing pollution by utilizing agricultural and organic waste (such as stubble burning), which would otherwise contribute to air pollution.

2. Waste Management:

   • CBG converts organic waste into fuel, promoting waste-to-energy solutions and advancing a circular economy. This process is instrumental in dealing with agricultural waste, which is a significant problem in rural areas.

3. Energy Security:

   • By producing CBG domestically from locally available biomass, India can reduce its dependence on oil imports, which aligns with the government’s goals to increase the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix (currently around 6%, targeted 15% by 2030).

India’s CBG-Related Initiatives

1. SATAT Scheme (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation):

   • This scheme is aimed at promoting the production of CBG from biomass and organic waste. The goal is to utilize 62 Million Metric Tonnes of annual waste and reduce import dependence, while also generating jobs and lowering vehicular emissions.

2. National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC):

   • The NCDC plans to support 15 sugar mills for setting up CBG and potash units. This initiative is part of India’s larger vision to create a cooperative model that integrates renewable energy production with local economic growth.

Comparison of CBG and CNG

Conclusion

The inauguration of India’s first cooperative multi-feed CBG plant in Kopargaon is a game-changer for the country’s energy security and waste management efforts. By converting agricultural waste into compressed biogas, India is taking a significant step towards cleaner energy and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

In a recent odonate survey (focused on dragonflies and damselflies) conducted in Silent Valley National Park, six new species of these fascinating insects were discovered.

About Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley National Park is a pristine stretch of wet evergreen forest located in the Nilgiri Hills of Kerala, South India. It is one of the last undisturbed tropical rainforests in the country and serves as a critical part of India's biodiversity conservation efforts.

Key Features:

• Location: Situated in the southwest corner of the Nilgiris, within the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2012).

• Size: Covers an area of 237.52 sq.km.

• Altitude: The park’s elevation ranges between 658 to 2383 meters above sea level.

• Water Source: The park is nourished by the Kunthipuzha River, which meanders through the dense forests.

Why is it Called "Silent Valley"?

The name “Silent Valley” refers to the absence of cicadas, which are typically found in many forests and produce loud buzzing sounds. The park is known for its quiet and tranquil environment, making it a unique ecological area.

Biodiversity of Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in India, with a wide variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Flora:

• 200 species of liverworts and 200 algae.

• Medicinal plants: The park is home to several plants with high medicinal value.

• Notable Trees: The towering Culinea trees are one of the iconic features of this park.

Fauna:

Silent Valley is also known for being home to several rare and endangered species:

• Lion-tailed macaque: An endangered primate endemic to the Western Ghats, often considered the park's flagship species.

• Nilgiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, and the Indian elephant are some of the other key mammals in the park.

• Predators: Tiger, leopard, and gaur (Indian bison).

• Birdlife: Over 200 species of birds, including the great Indian hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and a range of eagles and owls.

Recent studies suggest that certain movements, such as compulsively moving one’s legs, may be indicative of an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD).

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. It leads to the gradual breakdown of nerve cells (neurons) in specific parts of the brain, resulting in various movement-related symptoms.

Key Characteristics of Parkinson's Disease:

1. Movement Problems: As neurons in the brain deteriorate, patients experience tremors, muscle stiffness, impaired balance, and slowness of movement.

2. Dopamine Deficiency: The condition primarily affects the substantia nigra, an area in the brain that produces dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for coordinating smooth and purposeful movements.

   • By the time symptoms are noticeable, individuals with Parkinson’s may have lost 60-80% of the dopamine-producing cells in this area, leading to symptoms like tremors and stiffness.

3. Common Symptoms:

   • Tremors (shaking), particularly in the hands.

   • Bradykinesia (slowness of movement).

   • Rigidity or stiffness in the muscles.

   • Postural instability, which leads to problems with balance and coordination.

4. Gait Changes: People with Parkinson's often develop a distinctive walking pattern, known as the "parkinsonian gait". This includes:

   • Leaning forward while walking.

   • Festination (small, quick steps as if hurrying).

   • Reduced arm swing while walking.

   • Start hesitation (difficulty initiating movement), and in some cases, freezing (sudden inability to move).

Who Does Parkinson’s Disease Affect?

• Age Factor: Although Parkinson's primarily affects older individuals, younger people can also be diagnosed, particularly if they have genetic predispositions.

• Gender: Men are more frequently affected than women.

• Genetics and Environmental Factors:

  • Family history increases risk. Those with close family members diagnosed with Parkinson's are more likely to develop the condition.

  • Environmental exposures such as pesticides, solvents, and air pollution may also elevate the risk of developing PD.

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease

Currently, there are no blood tests or imaging techniques that can definitively diagnose Parkinson’s disease. The diagnosis is primarily based on:

1. Clinical evaluation of symptoms.

2. Movement tests performed by specialists (neurologists).

3. Medical history and family history of the disease.

It can often be misdiagnosed in its early stages due to overlap with other movement disorders.

Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease

While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life.

1. Medication:

   • Levodopa (the most common treatment), which helps to replenish dopamine levels in the brain.

   • Dopamine agonists and MAO-B inhibitors are also commonly used to manage symptoms.

2. Surgical Treatment:

   • Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical treatment involving the implantation of a device that sends electrical impulses to the brain to reduce symptoms.

3. Physical Therapy:

   • Helps improve mobility, balance, and flexibility, and addresses issues with the parkinsonian gait.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and speech therapy are also important in managing Parkinson's.

Conclusion

Parkinson's disease is a complex, progressive condition with a significant impact on the movement and daily life of those affected. While treatment can help manage symptoms, ongoing research into early warning signs, risk factors, and genetic/environmental influences is crucial in improving diagnosis and care.

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has successfully developed a cost-effective, single-stage test vehicle powered by the Vikas engine. This vehicle will be used to validate the Crew Escape System (CES), a critical safety feature for astronaut missions.

About the Crew Escape System (CES)

The Crew Escape System is a vital emergency safety mechanism designed to protect astronauts in the event of a launch abort. In such an emergency, the system quickly pulls the crew module (which houses the astronauts) to a safe distance from the launch vehicle to prevent potential harm.

CES can be classified into two types, based on the method of extracting the crew module:

1. Puller Type CES:

   • Used in India's Gaganyaan mission.

   • The CES pulls the crew module away from the failing launch vehicle.

   • This system uses solid or liquid fuel rockets to separate the crew capsule from the rocket.

2. Pusher Type CES:

   • Used in vehicles like SpaceX's Falcon 9.

   • The crew module is pushed away from the launch vehicle using high-thrust liquid-fuel engines.

Notable examples of the Puller Type CES include NASA’s Saturn V, Russia’s Soyuz, and China’s Long March rockets.

How Does the Crew Escape System Work?

1. Activation of CES:

   • The CES is activated automatically when an anomaly or emergency is detected. The Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) system plays a key role in this process.

   • The IVHM system is a network of sensors, electronics, and software that constantly monitors the vehicle’s and crew’s health during the mission. It tracks the vital parameters of both the vehicle’s systems and the astronauts.

   • The IVHM ensures early detection of issues, minimizes false alarms, and triggers the CES as soon as a safety risk is identified.

2. Escape Procedure:

   • Once the CES is activated, the crew module is pulled to a safe distance from the launch vehicle.

   • After separation, the crew module undergoes a controlled deceleration using a multistage parachute system. This slows the module down in steps to ensure a safe splashdown.

   • The parachute system ensures that the crew does not experience excessive forces, reducing the risk of injury upon impact with the water.

3. Safe Landing:

   • The astronauts remain inside the module until it reaches the splashdown point.

   • The system’s precise control ensures the module lands safely in the ocean without exceeding the crew’s physiological limits.

Key Components of the Crew Escape System:

• Vikas Engine: A key component powering the single-stage test vehicle used for validating CES by ISRO. The Vikas engine is used in various ISRO missions and has been modified to suit the requirements of the CES.

• Integrated Vehicle Health Management System (IVHM): A crucial safety system that continuously monitors the health of the spacecraft, detecting any anomalies and triggering the CES when needed. It ensures that real-time data from various vehicle systems and crew health parameters are analyzed and used to make critical decisions about when to activate the escape system.

Significance of the CES Development for ISRO

• The development and successful validation of CES represent a major milestone in India's space exploration capabilities, particularly for the Gaganyaan mission, which is ISRO's first manned mission to space.

• By incorporating a cost-effective, single-stage test vehicle, ISRO is able to demonstrate the feasibility and reliability of this escape system, ensuring the safety of the astronauts during all stages of the mission.

• The successful testing of CES is also a testament to India’s growing space technology prowess, positioning ISRO as a leader in human spaceflight alongside other space agencies such as NASA and the European Space Agency.

Conclusion

ISRO's development of the Crew Escape System (CES) is a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of astronauts during high-risk phases of space missions. With cost-effective design, advanced health monitoring systems, and reliable escape mechanisms, ISRO aims to minimize risks for astronauts, enhancing the success and safety of the Gaganyaan mission and future manned space flights.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) remains one of the leading causes of infant mortality globally, and October is marked as SIDS Awareness Month to raise awareness about this tragic condition.

What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

SIDS is defined as the unexpected death of an infant under one year of age, for which no clear cause can be determined even after an investigation.

• It is sometimes referred to as ‘cot death’ or ‘crib death’, although the terms may be misleading, as cribs or cots are not directly responsible for these deaths.

• SIDS typically occurs when the infant is asleep, and the majority of SIDS cases happen during the first six months of life.

• The condition affects slightly more boys than girls and is often observed in babies who are otherwise healthy, making it particularly difficult to predict or prevent.

Risk Factors for SIDS

Several factors increase the likelihood of an infant dying from SIDS, including:

1. Premature birth or low birth weight: Infants who were born prematurely or with low birth weight are at a higher risk.

2. Family history: Babies who have had a sibling who died of SIDS have a higher chance of experiencing it themselves.

3. Exposure to smoking: Babies who are exposed to smoking or secondhand smoke during or after pregnancy have an increased risk of SIDS.

4. Unsafe sleeping positions or environments: Babies who sleep on their stomach, or on a soft mattress with pillows, blankets, or stuffed toys, are at a higher risk of SIDS.

5. Poor prenatal care: Lack of appropriate care during pregnancy can increase the risks of SIDS.

Causes of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

While the exact cause of SIDS remains unknown, several potential factors are believed to contribute to the phenomenon:

1. Underdevelopment of the brain: One of the leading theories suggests that babies with SIDS may have issues in the part of their brain that controls breathing and waking during sleep. This might make them unable to respond effectively to breathing difficulties or sleep-related issues.

2. Genetic vulnerabilities: There could be genetic factors that make certain infants more susceptible to SIDS.

3. Environmental stresses: External factors like unsafe sleep environments and exposure to smoke may trigger SIDS in infants who are already vulnerable.

4. Vaccination: There is no evidence linking vaccines with SIDS. Vaccination does not cause SIDS. In fact, studies have shown that vaccinated infants have a lower risk of SIDS compared to those who have not received vaccines.

Preventive Measures for Reducing the Risk of SIDS

1. Sleep Position: Infants should be placed on their back to sleep, as this significantly reduces the risk of SIDS compared to sleeping on the stomach or side.

2. Safe Sleep Environment:

   • Place babies on a firm mattress with no soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals.

   • Avoid overheating by dressing babies in light, breathable clothing.

   • Keep the sleep area free from smoke exposure (both during and after pregnancy).

3. Breastfeeding: Research suggests that breastfeeding may offer protective benefits against SIDS, especially if continued for several months.

4. Pacifiers: Offering a pacifier at nap time or bedtime has been associated with a lower risk of SIDS.

5. Regular Prenatal Care: Seeking early and consistent prenatal care can lower the risk of complications during pregnancy that might lead to higher chances of SIDS.

Conclusion

Despite ongoing research, SIDS remains a complex and tragic phenomenon that cannot be fully predicted or prevented. However, awareness, safe sleep practices, and proper prenatal care can significantly reduce the risk. October, as SIDS Awareness Month, serves as an important time to educate parents, caregivers, and communities about safe sleep guidelines to protect infants from this devastating syndrome.

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj recently launched the People’s Plan Campaign (PPC) for 2025–26 to initiate the nationwide process of preparing Panchayat Development Plans (PDPs) for the Financial Year 2026–27. The overarching slogan, “Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas”, emphasizes the inclusivity and holistic nature of the planning process, aiming for comprehensive rural development.

What is the People’s Plan Campaign (PPC)?

The People’s Plan Campaign (also known as Jan Yojana Abhiyan) was launched on October 2, 2018. It is designed to foster participatory, transparent, and accountable local governance by actively involving citizens at the Gram, Block, and District levels in the preparation of Panchayat Development Plans (PDPs). The campaign promotes community-driven development and decentralization.

Objectives of PPC:

1. Inclusive and Convergent Planning: To ensure that development plans at the Gram, Block, and District levels are inclusive and well-coordinated, addressing local needs and priorities.

2. Localization of SDGs: To align the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with local development strategies, focusing on the nine thematic approaches of SDGs and integrating Village Prosperity and Resilience Plans (VPRPs) from Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

3. Gender-Responsive Governance: To promote greater involvement of Women Elected Representatives (WERs), fostering gender-sensitive development.

4. Transparency & Accountability: To ensure that the planning process is transparent, involving Gram Sabhas and making information publicly available through campaigns and disclosures.

Achievements of PPC (as of July 2025):

• Over 18.13 lakh PDPs have been uploaded since 2019, showing significant progress in grassroots-level planning.

Highlights of PPC 2025–26:

1. Review and Assessment: Gram Sabhas will review the previous Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), assess progress using tools like eGramSwaraj and the Meri Panchayat App, and address delays or unfinished projects, particularly those linked to Central Finance Commission grants.

2. Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI): The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) will be used to guide the process and ensure improvement in the Own Source Revenue (OSR) of Panchayats.

3. Tribal Empowerment: The campaign will focus on tribal empowerment through initiatives like the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyaan.

4. Digital Planning: Tools like eGramSwaraj, Panchayat NIRNAY, and the Meri Panchayat App will be central to improving transparency, accountability, and participation in the development process.

Role of Panchayats in India’s Development Framework

The Panchayats are the core of India’s decentralized governance system. They are responsible for delivering local governance, public welfare, and development programs at the grassroots level.

Constitutional Role:

• 73rd Amendment (1992): Institutionalized the Panchayati Raj system, granting Gram Panchayats the constitutional mandate to plan and implement economic development and social justice programs.

• Article 243G: Empowers Panchayats to take decisions on economic and social justice programs, making them autonomous units of local self-government.

Key Functions of Panchayats:

1. Service Delivery & Welfare: Panchayats ensure the provision of essential services like water, sanitation, roads, street lighting, health, education, and nutrition.

2. Development Planning: Panchayats create Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) in participatory Gram Sabhas, ensuring that local issues and priorities are incorporated.

3. SDG Localization: Panchayats play a key role in integrating SDG themes like poverty-free, healthy, water-sufficient, and clean & green villages into development plans.

People’s Planning:

• Self-Help Groups (SHGs) contribute to the planning process by preparing Village Prosperity and Resilience Plans (VPRPs), ensuring gender-sensitive and socially inclusive development.

Challenges

The PPC faces several challenges that need to be addressed to improve its effectiveness:

Challenges:

1. Lack of Trained Personnel: Many Gram Panchayats lack the technical skills and expertise needed for effective planning.

2. Limited Own Source Revenue (OSR): Panchayats depend largely on grants from the Centre and States, limiting their financial autonomy.

3. Connectivity Issues: Poor connectivity in remote areas hampers the use of digital tools like eGramSwaraj and other apps for real-time monitoring.

4. Weak Multi-Departmental Convergence: Lack of coordination between different departments hinders holistic planning and integrated development.

Actionable Strategies:

1. Capacity Building: Train Panchayat officials and facilitators through State Institutes of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (SIRD&PRs).

2. Incentivizing OSR: Implement performance-linked grants and incentivize Own Source Revenue (OSR) mobilization.

3. Expanding Digital Infrastructure: Enhance BharatNet and digital infrastructure to improve e-governance and support PPC tools like eGramSwaraj, Meri Panchayat App, and Panchayat NIRNAY.

4. Improving Convergence: Establish convergence cells at the block and district levels to integrate key schemes like MGNREGA, PM Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat Mission, and health programs.

What is a PRI?

Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) refers to the system of local self-government in rural India. It provides a mechanism for decentralized governance and community participation in decision-making processes at the village, block, and district levels. The PRI system was institutionalized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, with the aim of empowering rural communities and ensuring their active participation in the governance and development processes.

Evolution of Panchayati Raj System in India

The evolution of Panchayati Raj in India spans several historical periods:

1. Vedic and Epic Eras:

   • During the Vedic period, democratic local governance was represented by groups like Sabhas and Samitis. These bodies were empowered to make decisions and approve the king’s policies.

   • The Mahabharata mentions a structured administration in villages with leaders responsible for managing affairs at different levels (10, 20, 100, 1,000 villages).

2. Ancient India:

   • In the Mauryan period, Kautilya’s Arthashastra refers to local governance, where village Panchayats were responsible for local taxation and defense. The village headmen, Grampatis, played a critical role in governance.

   • Over time, local governance structures continued in ancient India, although the role of women was not recognized in these early systems.

3. Medieval Period:

   • Under the Sultanate and Mughal rule, local governance was largely managed by village officials like Mukkaddam (administrator) and Patwari (revenue collector). However, village autonomy declined during this period, and caste and feudal systems took prominence.

4. British Period:

   • The British weakened local self-government structures, but efforts for local democratic governance emerged post-1870 with the Mayo’s Resolution and Lord Rippon’s reforms (1882). These reforms introduced elected representatives to local bodies, though these systems remained limited and not fully democratic.

   • In 1919, the Montagu-Chelmsford reforms transferred local governance to provinces, but local bodies remained weak due to fiscal and administrative constraints.

5. Post-Independence Period:

   • After independence, Panchayats were incorporated into the Directive Principles of State Policy (Article 40) of the Indian Constitution.

   • In 1959, a three-tier Panchayat Raj system was implemented in Rajasthan and later expanded across other states, as recommended by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee. This system introduced Grama Panchayats (village level), Panchayat Samitis (block level), and Zilla Parishads (district level).

   • The Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) suggested a two-tier system. However, the need for comprehensive and functional local self-governance continued to evolve over time.

   • The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992) marked a significant turning point, establishing a strong framework for local governance.

Salient Features of the 73rd and 74th Amendments

The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Indian Constitution brought about significant reforms to the structure of local self-governance in India. These amendments were passed in 1992 and became effective in 1993, and they laid the foundation for a more decentralized system of governance by providing constitutional recognition and strengthening the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Municipalities.

1. Panchayats (73rd Amendment) – Part IX of the Constitution

• Part IX of the Constitution was added to provide a legal framework for Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs), starting at the village level and extending to district levels.

• Gram Sabhas (village assemblies) and Ward Committees (for municipalities) were recognized as the basic units of democracy.

2. Three-Tier System of Panchayats (Article 243B):

• Village Panchayats, Intermediate (block/taluk/mandal) Panchayats, and District Panchayats were established as a mandatory three-tier structure for decentralized governance.

  • Exceptions: States with populations under 20 lakh are not required to implement the intermediate level (block/taluk/mandal) panchayats.

3. Direct Elections (Article 243C):

• Seats at all levels of the Panchayats are filled through direct elections.

• The elections are to be uniform and conducted every five years, with provisions to ensure that new bodies are constituted before the expiry of the term (Article 243E).

4. Reservation of Seats (Article 243D):

• One-third of the total seats in Panchayats are reserved for women.

• Seats reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), and the chairpersons' positions at all levels (village, block, and district) are reserved in proportion to their population.

• One-third of the reserved seats for SCs and STs are also to be reserved for women.

• One-third of the positions of chairpersons at all levels of Panchayats are also reserved for women.

5. Role of Gram Sabhas (Article 243A):

• The Gram Sabha (village assembly) plays a crucial role in making decisions regarding development projects, social justice, and local issues.

6. Financial Empowerment (Article 243H and 243I):

• Panchayats are empowered with financial resources through the State Finance Commission, which is responsible for determining the principles based on which adequate financial resources are allocated to Panchayats.

• Panchayats are also empowered to collect taxes and retain revenue to fund local development projects. Additionally, they can access funds from Central Government programmes and grants under the Union Finance Commission.

7. Empowerment of Local Governance (Article 243G):

• Panchayats are responsible for preparing plans for economic development and social justice in areas devolved to them through state laws.

• The Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution outlines 29 subjects on which Panchayats have the authority to make decisions and implement plans.

8. Independent Election Commission (Article 243K):

• An Independent Election Commission at the state level is responsible for the superintendence, direction, and control of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections for Panchayats.

9. District Planning Committees (Article 243ZD) – 74th Amendment:

• The 74th Amendment provided for the creation of District Planning Committees. These committees are responsible for consolidating the plans developed by the Panchayats and Municipalities, ensuring coordinated and effective development planning across regions.

10. Uniform Terms and Elections (Article 243E):

• Panchayat bodies have a uniform five-year term. In the event of a dissolution, elections must be held within six months.

11. Special Provisions for Scheduled Areas (PESA Act 1996):

• Certain tribal and scheduled areas are exempt from the full application of the Panchayati Raj system due to their socio-cultural and administrative uniqueness. For these areas, the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 was passed to ensure that local customs and practices are respected while empowering local bodies.

12. Functions in the Eleventh Schedule:

• 29 functions are listed in the Eleventh Schedule for Panchayats to manage. These include:

  • Agriculture, water management, land improvement.

  • Social welfare, health, sanitation, and education.

  • Rural electrification, non-conventional energy sources.

  • Construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.

  • Promotion of industries, markets, and cooperatives.

Reforms and Challenges of PRIs

Reforms Since Inception:

• Empowerment of Women: The reservation of one-third of seats for women has drastically increased female political representation. In fact, India has the largest number of women in elected positions globally.

• Financial Devolution: The Finance Commissions have steadily increased funding allocations for PRIs, helping strengthen their capacity to function effectively.

• e-Governance: The government has introduced digital tools like eGramSwaraj to improve transparency and facilitate monitoring of rural development plans.

However, there have been significant challenges:

1. Lack of Effective Devolution:

   • States often retain authority over key functions and fail to fully devolve powers and funds to PRIs, limiting their autonomy and effectiveness.

2. Inadequate Funding:

   • PRIs struggle with insufficient financial resources. The grants provided by Finance Commissions often fall short of the actual requirements.

   • Many Gram Panchayats (GPs) are reluctant to generate their own revenue, relying heavily on state or central funding.

3. Infrastructural Challenges:

   • Many Panchayats do not have dedicated offices, and some lack basic amenities like toilets, electricity, and internet access, which hampers their efficiency.

4. Sarpanch Pati (Proxy Leadership):

   • The Sarpanch Pati culture, where male relatives of female sarpanchs exercise power, persists due to patriarchal societal norms, undermining women's authority.

5. Lack of Convergence in Government Programs:

   • There is no integrated approach to the implementation of government schemes. Different departments often run parallel projects without coordination, leading to inefficiency.

Steps Needed for Improvement:

To address these issues, several steps can be taken:

1. Clear Demarcation of Functions:

   • The 2nd Administrative Reform Commission (ARC) recommended clear division of functions between state, district, and local bodies to avoid overlap and confusion.

2. Enhancing Fiscal Autonomy:

   • Panchayats should have more autonomy to raise their own revenue through local taxes, user fees, etc., which would provide them with the financial independence necessary to implement local projects.

3. Capacity Building:

   • Extensive training for Panchayat members and officials is needed to improve governance skills, technical expertise, and understanding of financial management.

4. Infrastructure Improvement:

   • Efforts should be made to provide basic infrastructure to Panchayats, including office spaces, communication facilities, and internet connectivity to improve efficiency and transparency.

5. Convergence of Schemes:

   • A system for the convergence of government programs should be created at the district and block levels to ensure that development projects are implemented in a coordinated manner.

Conclusion

The People’s Plan Campaign (PPC) is a crucial initiative aimed at strengthening decentralization and empowering local governments to play an active role in sustainable rural development. By leveraging community participation and digital tools, the PPC can make Panchayati Raj more transparent, inclusive, and accountable, thus accelerating rural development and contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.