1. Digital India Programme — Foundation of India's Technology Transformation

Flagship initiative launched in 2015 to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

Why in News

India is being recognised as an emerging global technology power, with the Digital India Programme serving as the backbone of this transformation through expanded digital infrastructure, connectivity and innovation ecosystem.

Key Facts

• Launched: 2015 as a flagship programme to build digital infrastructure and enable technology-led service delivery across sectors.
• Optical Fibre Expansion: Network grew from 35 lakh route km in 2019 to 42.36 lakh route km in 2025.
• 5G Rollout: India achieved one of the world's fastest 5G deployments, reaching 9% of districts by 2026.
• Internet Penetration: Total internet connections increased from 15 crore in 2014 to 102.86 crore in 2026.
• Broadband Growth: Connections rose from 1 crore in 2014 to 99.56 crore in December 2025.
• Data Consumption: Average monthly usage increased from 66 MB in 2014 to 24.01 GB in December 2025.
• Affordable Data: Cost per GB dropped from ₹269 in 2014 to ₹8–10 currently, enabling mass digital adoption.
• Technology Enabler: Created infrastructure foundation for AI, cloud computing, blockchain, fintech and other emerging technologies. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Science & Technology — Digital Public Infrastructure as governance tool)

Quick Revision Box

Parameter	Achievement
Launch Year	2015
Internet Users (2014→2026)	25.15 crore → 102.86 crore
5G Coverage	99.9% districts
Data Cost Reduction	₹269/GB → ₹8–10/GB
Monthly Data Usage	61.66 MB → 24.01 GB
Optical Fibre Network	19.35 lakh km → 42.36 lakh km

---

2. National Supercomputing Mission — Building Indigenous High-Performance Computing

Government initiative to develop indigenous supercomputing infrastructure for scientific research and technology applications.

Why in News

As part of India's emerging technology ecosystem, the National Supercomputing Mission has successfully deployed 38 supercomputers with combined power of 47 petaflops, including the indigenous PARAM Rudra series.

Key Facts

• Launched: 2015 jointly by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY).
• Budget Allocation: ₹4,500 crore for developing indigenous supercomputing ecosystem.
• Current Capacity: 38 supercomputers deployed with combined computational power of 47 petaflops.
• PARAM Rudra Series: Indigenous supercomputer series built with Indian-designed hardware and software, marking self-reliance in high-performance computing.
• Applications: Used in weather forecasting, climate modelling, AI research, drug discovery and high-performance scientific research. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Science & Technology — Atmanirbhar Bharat in critical technology)
• Strategic Importance: Supercomputers perform billions of calculations per second, essential for complex computational problems.
• Technology Transfer: Mission promotes indigenous manufacturing capabilities and reduces import dependence for critical computing infrastructure.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
Launch Year	2015
Nodal Ministries	DST and MeitY
Total Outlay	₹4,500 crore
Supercomputers Deployed	38 units
Total Computing Power	47 petaflops
Indigenous Series	PARAM Rudra

---

3. Semicon India Programme — Building Domestic Semiconductor Ecosystem

Comprehensive initiative to establish end-to-end semiconductor manufacturing and design ecosystem in India.

Why in News

Under the Semicon India Programme, 12 projects worth ₹1.64 lakh crore have been approved as of June 2026, including semiconductor fabs, compound semiconductor facilities and packaging units, strengthening India's position in global chip supply chains.

Key Facts

• Launched: 2021 with an outlay of ₹76,000 crore to support semiconductor manufacturing, display fabrication and chip design.
• Projects Approved: 12 projects worth approximately ₹1.64 lakh crore including 1 semiconductor fab, 2 compound semiconductor fabs, 9 packaging units.
• India Semiconductor Mission 2.0: Announced in Budget 2026–27 with initial outlay of ₹1,000 crore, focusing on equipment, materials and indigenous IP.
• Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme: Launched 2021 to strengthen fabless semiconductor ecosystem through financial incentives for startups, MSMEs and academic institutions. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Economy — Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat in critical technology)
• Strategic Importance: Semiconductors are foundation of AI, cloud computing, IoT, 5G, defence systems and advanced electronics.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Programme aims to reduce import dependence and build resilient domestic semiconductor supply chains.
• Capacity Building: Includes support for talent development, research, advanced design infrastructure and testing facilities.

Quick Revision Box

Component	Detail
Launch Year	2021
Initial Outlay	₹76,000 crore
Projects Approved (June 2026)	12 worth ₹1.64 lakh crore
Semiconductor Fabs	1 approved
Compound Semiconductor Fabs	2 approved
Packaging Units	9 approved

---

4. IndiaAI Mission — Democratising Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure

Comprehensive mission to build indigenous AI computing infrastructure, support startups and promote responsible AI development.

Why in News

The IndiaAI Mission, launched in 2024 with an outlay of over ₹10,300 crore, is creating a common computing facility with over 38,000 GPUs to democratise access to advanced AI infrastructure across India.

Key Facts

• Launched: 2024 with total outlay of over ₹10,300 crore for comprehensive AI ecosystem development.
• GPU Infrastructure: Creating common computing facility with over 38,000 GPUs for democratised access to AI computing power.
• AI Kosh Platform: Hosts 12,115 datasets and 306 AI models across 20 sectors, supporting research and innovation at scale.
• Focus Areas: Indigenous AI computing infrastructure, GPU access, research support, startup enablement, youth skilling and responsible AI frameworks. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Science & Technology — AI governance, digital public infrastructure)
• Strategic Importance: AI drives automation, productivity and industrial innovation, making it central to India's future technology strategy.
• Democratisation Goal: Common facility ensures access for startups, researchers, MSMEs and academic institutions without heavy capital investment.
• Sector Coverage: AI Kosh spans 20 sectors including healthcare, agriculture, education, finance and governance.

Quick Revision Box

Component	Detail
Launch Year	2024
Total Outlay	Over ₹10,300 crore
GPU Capacity	Over 38,000 GPUs
AI Kosh Datasets	12,115 datasets
AI Models Hosted	306 models
Sectoral Coverage	20 sectors

---

5. MeghRaj — India's National Cloud Computing Platform

India's indigenous cloud computing initiative for secure and scalable digital governance infrastructure.

Why in News

MeghRaj 2.0, India's hybrid cloud platform, has achieved adoption by 2,323 government departments as of June 2026, up from 342 departments in 2015–16, powering key platforms like DigiLocker, MyGov and National Scholarship Portal.

Key Facts

• MeghRaj Launched: 2014 as India's first indigenous cloud computing ecosystem for government services.
• MeghRaj 2.0: Upgraded version strengthening hybrid cloud architecture and cybersecurity
• Adoption Growth: Government department usage increased from 342 in 2015–16 to 2,323 by June 2026.
• Key Platforms: Powers DigiLocker, MyGov, National Scholarship Portal and numerous e-governance services. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS2 Governance — Digital Public Infrastructure, e-governance models)
• Cloud Computing Definition: Provides scalable and secure access to storage, servers, software and data processing for governance, business and finance.
• Data Sovereignty: Indigenous cloud infrastructure strengthens data security and digital sovereignty by keeping sensitive government data within India.
• Strategic Impact: Enables secure digital transformation while maintaining control over critical data and infrastructure.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
Launch Year	2014 (MeghRaj)
Upgraded Version	MeghRaj 2.0
Adoption (2015–16)	342 departments
Adoption (June 2026)	2,323 departments
Key Platforms	DigiLocker, MyGov, NSP
Focus	Hybrid cloud, cybersecurity

 

---

6. NAFEX.in — NAFED's Digital Agricultural Auction Platform

Digital auction platform launched by NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd.) in June 2026 to modernize agricultural commodity trading through online auctions.

Why in News

NAFED launched NAFEX.in to digitize agricultural auctions, enabling transparent, real-time bidding for farmers and traders across India.

Key Facts

• Launch Date: June 2026 — part of agricultural marketing digitization drive.
• Launched By: NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd.) — apex cooperative body under Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• NAFED Role: Central agency for procurement, price stabilization, and agricultural commodity trading — operates under Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS3 Agriculture — cooperative federalism, MSP mechanism)
• Platform Objective: Enable transparent, real-time online auctions for agricultural produce, replacing traditional physical auction systems.
• Target Beneficiaries: Farmers, traders, procurement agencies, and government bodies engaged in agricultural commodity transactions.
• Policy Context: Aligns with e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) and digital agriculture initiatives for farmer empowerment. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS3 Agriculture — agricultural marketing reforms)
• Key Feature: Digital auction mechanism ensures price transparency, wider market access, and reduces intermediary exploitation.
• Expected Impact: Improved price realization for farmers, reduced transaction costs, and enhanced market efficiency.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
NAFEX.in Launch	June 2026 by NAFED
NAFED	National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation
Parent Ministry	Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Core Function	Digital auction platform for agricultural commodities
Policy Link	Aligns with e-NAM (National Agriculture Market)
Objective	Transparent, real-time bidding for farmers and traders

---

7. Thewa Art — Rajasthan's Ancient Gold-Glass Fusion Craft

Intricate gold filigree work fused onto multi-hued glass, originating from Pratapgarh, Rajasthan — a 400-year-old traditional craft patronized by Rajput royalty and recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) tag art form.

Why in News

Thewa Art gained international attention during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Slovakia in June 2026, when traditional Thewa jewellery pieces were presented as diplomatic gifts.

Key Facts

• Origin: Pratapgarh district, Rajasthan — craft practiced by the Raj Soni (goldsmith) community for over 400 years.
• Technique: Intricate 23-karat gold filigree designs are fused onto multi-coloured glass (typically red, green, or blue) through a complex heat treatment process. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS1 Culture — traditional crafts, intangible heritage)
• Historical Patronage: Flourished under Rajput royal courts and Mughal emperors — used for ornamental jewellery, decorative panels, and royal insignia.
• GI Status: Recognized with Geographical Indication (GI) tag — protecting its unique identity and traditional production methods.
• Unique Process: Involves five-stage craftsmanship: gold wire design → glass preparation → fusion → engraving → final polishing — takes weeks to months for a single piece.
• Current Status: Endangered craft — fewer than 100 active artisan families remain due to high skill requirements and economic challenges. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS2 Governance — artisan welfare, skill preservation)
• Contemporary Use: Thewa jewellery (necklaces, bracelets, earrings) and decorative art pieces — popular in cultural diplomacy and heritage tourism.
• Policy Support: Covered under PM Vishwakarma Yojana and Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation (HHEC) promotion schemes.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
Origin Region	Pratapgarh, Rajasthan — 400+ years old
Technique	23-karat gold filigree fused on multi-coloured glass
Artisan Community	Raj Soni (goldsmith) families
GI Status	Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognized
Historical Patronage	Rajput courts and Mughal emperors
Current Artisans	Fewer than 100 active families — endangered craft

---

8. London Climate Action Week and UN Warning on Twin Crises

UN Secretary-General António Guterres' address highlighting simultaneous climate and energy crises driven by fossil fuel dependence.

Why in News

At London Climate Action Week, UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the world faces twin crises: an accelerating climate crisis pushing temperatures toward catastrophic tipping points and an acute energy crisis triggered by conflicts in West Asia, exposing economic risks of hydrocarbon dependence.

Key Facts

• The world has experienced its 11 hottest years on record, with temperatures tracking toward exceeding the 5°C Paris Agreement threshold.
• The International Energy Agency (IEA) compared the current West Asian energy upheaval to the oil shocks of the 1970s combined with Ukraine war market turmoil.
• World's eight largest fossil fuel companies earned $6.5 billion in windfall profits in Q1 2026 alone due to high oil prices during Middle East conflict.
• Methane accounts for roughly one-third of global warming and is 80 times more powerful than CO₂ over short-term atmospheric lifespan. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Environment - greenhouse gas protocols and mitigation strategies)
• In 2025, oil and gas operations globally flared 167 billion cubic metres of natural gas, equivalent to Africa's entire annual gas consumption.
• UNEP's Methane Alert and Response System issued over 5,000 alerts across 33 nations, but global response rate remains at only 12 percent.
• By 2030, commercial AI data centers projected to consume more electricity than all but five countries on Earth.
• Since 2010, solar energy costs dropped by almost 90 percent, onshore wind by over 70 percent, and battery storage by 95 percent.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
Paris Agreement Threshold	1.5°C temperature limit above pre-industrial levels
Methane Warming Potential	80 times more powerful than CO₂ over short-term
UNEP Alert Response Rate	Only 12% of 5,000+ methane alerts acted upon
Africa Clean Energy Share	Receives only 2% of global investments despite 60% best solar resources
Renewable Cost Deflation	Solar costs down 90%, wind 70%, batteries 95% since 2010
2026 Fossil Fuel Windfall	$6.5 billion extra profits in Q1 2026 for top 8 companies

---

9. UNEP Methane Alert and Response System (MARS)

Global monitoring platform detecting and alerting governments about methane emission events from oil and gas operations using satellite data.

Why in News

During London Climate Action Week, UN highlighted that UNEP's Methane Alert and Response System issued over 5,000 alerts across 33 nations regarding methane emissions, but the global response rate from governments and industries remains at only 12 percent, indicating weak enforcement despite robust detection capabilities.

Key Facts

• MARS is a satellite-based monitoring system operated by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to detect methane emission events globally.
• Methane (CH₄) accounts for approximately one-third of global warming and is 80 times more powerful than CO₂ over 20-year timeframe. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Climate Change mitigation and greenhouse gas inventory)
• In 2025-26, MARS issued over 5,000 alerts across 33 countries, identifying major methane leaks from oil and gas infrastructure.
• Global response rate remains at only 12 percent — meaning 88% of detected leaks go unaddressed by governments or companies.
• In 2025, oil and gas operations flared 167 billion cubic metres of natural gas, equal to Africa's entire annual gas consumption.
• Existing low-cost technologies can eliminate 70% of current methane emissions from fossil fuel operations.
• International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates methane mitigation as one of the most cost-effective climate actions available.
• UN proposes enforcing near-zero methane standards across the entire oil and gas value chain using MARS detection data.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
MARS	Methane Alert and Response System by UNEP
Methane Warming Power	80 times stronger than CO₂ over 20-year period
2025-26 Alerts Issued	Over 5,000 across 33 nations
Global Response Rate	Only 12% of alerts acted upon
2025 Gas Flaring	167 billion m³ — equals Africa's annual consumption
Mitigation Potential	70% of emissions eliminable with existing technology

 

---

10. Multilateral Development Banks (MDB) Climate Lending Expansion

Institutional reforms enabling MDBs to expand lending capacity by $600-800 billion using guarantees, local currency financing, and debt-for-climate swaps.

Why in News

At London Climate Action Week, UN called for leveraging recent institutional reforms to expand Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) lending capacity by $600 billion to $800 billion, using guarantees, local currency financing, and debt-for-climate swaps to lower project risk and address the investment gap in developing nations.

Key Facts

• MDBs are international financial institutions providing finance and advice to developing countries for development projects. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Mobilization of Resources and international financial architecture)
• Major MDBs include World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), African Development Bank (AfDB), and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
• Recent reforms can expand MDB lending capacity by $600-800 billion for climate and development projects.
• Guarantees reduce lending risk by providing insurance against loan defaults.
• Local currency financing eliminates foreign exchange risk for borrower countries.
• Debt-for-climate swaps allow countries to restructure existing debt in exchange for climate investment commitments.
• Developing nations face borrowing costs two to three times higher than advanced economies for green infrastructure.
• Developed nations pledged $300 billion to developing countries, with paths to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
MDB	Multilateral Development Banks financing development projects
Major MDBs	World Bank, ADB, AfDB, AIIB
Lending Expansion Target	$600-800 billion through institutional reforms
Debt-for-Climate Swaps	Restructure debt in exchange for climate commitments
Borrowing Cost Gap	Developing nations pay 2-3 times higher than advanced economies
Climate Finance Pledge	$300 billion committed, scaling to $1.3 trillion by 2035

---

11. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs — India's Health and Wellness Centres Network

Rebranded primary healthcare facilities under Ayushman Bharat (2018) — transforming Sub-Centres (SCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs) into comprehensive Health and Wellness Centres.

Why in News

As of February 2026, India operates over 1.84 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, but public health experts criticize the policy shift for creating operational ambiguity and prioritizing digital wellness over curative infrastructure.

Key Facts

• Launch Year: 2018 — launched as part of the Ayushman Bharat programme's twin pillars (insurance + primary care). (UPSC Mains Usage: GS2 Health — government schemes)
• Operational Scale: 84 lakh+ centres functional across India as of February 2026.
• Institutional Rebranding: Mandatory "Health and Wellness Centre" prefix added to traditional Sub-Centres (SCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs).
• Three-Tier System: India's public health delivery operates through SCs (grassroots), PHCs (primary), and CHCs (community) — distinct historical roles now blurred.
• Policy Objective: Shift from disease-focused care to comprehensive primary healthcare including preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services.
• Critical Challenge: Rebranding has caused confusion among healthcare professionals regarding actual delivery mandates and operational roles. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS2 — Health Policy Analysis, Federal Structure)
• Budget Context: Despite expansion, primary public healthcare institutions face severe underfunding compared to food subsidies (₹2.05 lakh crore). India allocates barely 02% of GDP on disability welfare. (UPSC Mains Usage: GS3 Economy — budgetary priorities)
• Policy Criticism: Focus on wellness messaging over addressing immediate curative medicine needs and structural gaps like clean drinking water access.

Quick Revision Box

Term	Detail
Launch	2018 under Ayushman Bharat programme
Current Network	1.84 lakh+ centres operational (February 2026)
Three-Tier System	SCs (sub-centres) → PHCs → CHCs
Policy Shift	Disease-focused → comprehensive primary healthcare
Rebranding Issue	Uniform "Health and Wellness" prefix obscures distinct roles
Funding Gap	Primary care underfunded vs ₹2.05 lakh crore food subsidies
Disability Welfare	0.02% of GDP

---