{"id":2086,"date":"2025-10-14T08:59:55","date_gmt":"2025-10-14T08:59:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arkreflectionsias.com\/studentportal\/?p=2086"},"modified":"2025-10-21T09:49:54","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T09:49:54","slug":"current-affairs-14th-october-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/arkreflectionsias.com\/studentportal\/2025\/10\/14\/current-affairs-14th-october-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Affairs 14th October 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

1. 20 years of Right to Information (RTI) Act<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

GS PAPER II-polity<\/strong>: Indian Constitution<\/p>\n

Context:<\/strong> RTI activists across India observed 20 years of the Right to Information Act, 2005, which came into force in October 2005\u2014marking two decades of advancing transparency and accountability in public governance.<\/p>\n

Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  • Enactment: Passed by Parliament in 2005, replacing the Freedom of Information Act, 2002.<\/li>\n
  • Primary Goal: Empower citizens to seek information from public authorities, fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance.<\/li>\n
  • Coverage: Applies to Central, State, and Local Governments, PSUs, statutory authorities, and bodies substantially financed by public funds.<\/li>\n
  • Overriding Provision: Section 22 ensures RTI has precedence over any other law restricting access to information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Constitutional Foundation<\/strong><\/p>\n

      \n
    • Derived From: Article 19(1)(a) \u2013 the Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression.<\/li>\n
    • Judicial Recognition: The Supreme Court has affirmed that access to information is integral to the freedom of expression.<\/li>\n
    • Constitutional Safeguards: Articles 32 and 226 enable citizens to approach the Supreme Court and High Courts for enforcement.<\/li>\n
    • Promotes: Articles 14 and 21 by fostering equality, transparency, and participatory governance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Timelines for Response<\/strong><\/p>\n

        \n
      • General Cases: Within 30 days of RTI request submission.<\/li>\n
      • Matters Concerning Life or Liberty: Response within 48 hours.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Information Exemptions<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Section 8(1): Restricts disclosure affecting national security, sovereignty, strategic or economic interests, or foreign relations.
        \n\u2022 Section 8(2): Permits disclosure if public interest outweighs harm to protected interests.<\/p>\n

        Proactive Disclosure by Authorities<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Mandates digitization of records and regular publication of key information to reduce formal RTI requests.<\/p>\n

        RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Changes Introduced: Removal of fixed 5-year tenure and salary parity with Election Commissioners.
        \n\u2022 New Provision: Central Government empowered to define tenure, salary, and service conditions of CIC and ICs.
        \n\u2022 Impact: Widely criticized for potentially undermining institutional independence.<\/p>\n

        Institutional Mechanisms<\/strong>
        \nCentral Information Commission (CIC)<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Composition: Chief Information Commissioner + up to 10 Information Commissioners.
        \n\u2022 Appointment: Made by the President on the recommendation of a committee including the Prime Minister (Chairperson), Leader of Opposition (Lok Sabha), and a Union Cabinet Minister.
        \n\u2022 Tenure: As prescribed by the Central Government or until 65 years of age.
        \n\u2022 Functions:<\/strong>
        \nHear appeals and complaints under RTI.
        \nExercise civil court powers for summoning evidence.
        \nConduct suo motu inquiries for systemic violations.<\/p>\n

        State Information Commissions (SICs)<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Composition: State Chief Information Commissioner + up to 10 Information Commissioners.
        \n\u2022 Appointment: By the Governor on advice of a committee comprising Chief Minister (Chairperson), Leader of Opposition, and a State Cabinet Minister.
        \n\u2022 Eligibility: Eminent persons in public life, unaffiliated with political or profit-making bodies.
        \n\u2022 Role: Ensure RTI compliance and grievance redressal at the state and local levels.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        2. A green transition accelerating at express speed<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

        GS paper III<\/strong> -Economics -Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Rail<\/p>\n

        Context:<\/strong> India successfully conducted its first trial of a hydrogen-powered railway coach at the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, in July 2025, marking a major advance in Indian Railways\u2019 push for sustainable, low-carbon mobility and net-zero emissions.<\/p>\n

        Indian Railways\u2019 Decarbonisation Journey Strategic Vision<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Net-Zero Target: Indian Railways aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, setting an example globally by achieving this goal decades earlier than India\u2019s national commitment.
        \n\u2022 Urban and National Impact: The rail network supports approximately 24 million passengers and transports 3 million tonnes of freight daily, directly contributing to India\u2019s NDCs under the Paris Agreement.<\/p>\n

        India\u2019s Broader Energy Transition (2025)<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Power Shift: Over 50% of India\u2019s power capacity (476 GW) is now from non-fossil sources, with robust solar (110.9 GW), wind (51.3 GW), and increasing nuclear capacity (8.8 GW).
        \n\u2022 Universal Electrification: All villages electrified, with near-universal household access; but challenges remain in clean cooking fuel adoption and fossil fuel dependency.<\/p>\n

        Green Initiatives in Indian Railways<\/strong>
        \nNetwork Electrification<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Electrification Drive: Nearly 45,000 km of broad-gauge routes have been electrified, covering 98% of the Indian Railways network and yielding substantial diesel and GHG emissions reduction.<\/p>\n

        Renewable Energy Integration<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Clean Traction Power: Installed capacity of 756 MW (553 MW solar, 103 MW wind, 100 MW hybrid), with over 2,000 railway stations powered by solar.<\/p>\n

        Hydrogen for Heritage<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Flagship Programme: \u201cHydrogen for Heritage\u201d plans to deploy 35 hydrogen trains to operate on non-electrified routes, starting with the first prototype coach in 2025.<\/p>\n

        Modernisation and Efficiency<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Green Buildings: Multiple railway buildings now have \u201cShunya\u201d Net-Zero certification from BEE.
        \n\u2022 Advanced Rolling Stock: Adoption of lightweight coaches, regenerative braking, and more efficient locomotives.<\/p>\n

        Hydrogen Coach Innovation<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Technology: Utilises fuel-cell technology for electricity generation, producing only water vapour as an emission-free by-product.
        \n\u2022 Design Purpose: Tailored for non-electrified heritage and remote routes where electrification is costly.
        \n\u2022 Global Standing: Puts India alongside Germany and Japan in hydrogen-powered rail systems.<\/p>\n

        Climate Finance & Governance<\/strong>
        \nGreen Financing<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Bond Issuance: India issued \u20b958,000 crore in green bonds; \u20b942,000 crore directed to electric and green rail projects.
        \n\u2022 Multilateral Support: World Bank\u2019s $245 million project targets rail decongestion and emissions reduction.<\/p>\n

        Institutional Framework<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 IRFC Loans: Indian Railway Finance Corporation is a major financial driver in renewable upgrades and green infrastructure.<\/p>\n

        Policy and Operational Priorities<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Green Power Procurement: Long-term procurement from solar and wind sources to cleanly power trains.
        \n\u2022 Multi-modal Mobility: Major stations being redeveloped as eco-friendly transport hubs with EV charging, e-buses, and cycle facilities.
        \n\u2022 Freight Transport Shift: Emphasis on electric, LNG, and hydrogen vehicles for greener last-mile logistics.
        \n\u2022 Behavioural Change: Green certification and carbon labelling for trains, plus public campaigns to increase awareness.<\/p>\n

        Projected Impact by 2030<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Emissions: Net-zero railway operations will eliminate an estimated 60 million tonnes of CO\u2082 yearly, equivalent to taking 13 million cars off the road.
        \n\u2022 Economic Savings: Electrification and energy efficiency are projected to save over \u20b91 lakh crore by 2030.
        \n\u2022 Global Benchmark: Indian Railways is poised to become the world\u2019s largest net-zero rail network\u2014a global leader in sustainable state-run transport.<\/p>\n

        Conclusion<\/strong>
        \nThe hydrogen-powered coach stands as a symbol of technological, financial, and policy convergence for sustainable mobility in India. Indian Railways\u2019 decarbonisation is both a climate imperative and an innovation model for developing economies, anchoring India\u2019s net-zero and green industrialisation vision for the future.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        3. Snow leopard<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

        General Studies Paper III (GS-3):<\/strong> Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation<\/p>\n

        Context<\/strong>: A recent Stanford-based global study revealed that the snow leopard has the world\u2019s lowest genetic diversity among all big cats, raising concerns for its long-term survival and adaptability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Parameter<\/strong><\/td>\nDescription<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Common Name<\/td>\nSnow Leopard<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Scientific Name<\/td>\nPanthera uncia<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Habitat<\/td>\nRugged mountain ranges across 12 Asian countries<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Notable Feature<\/td>\nLong tail for balance; thick fur for insulation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Region in India<\/td>\nHimalayas: Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Diet<\/td>\nCarnivorous \u2013 Preys on wild ungulates, livestock<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Genetic Diversity: Meaning & Study Findings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Parameter<\/strong><\/td>\nDetails<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Meaning of Genetic Diversity<\/td>\nVariety of genes within a species, crucial for resisting diseases and adapting to changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Key Study Finding<\/td>\nSnow leopards have the lowest heterozygosity among big cats, due to persistently small population sizes over evolutionary time<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Study Method<\/td>\nWhole-genome sequencing of 37 snow leopards by Stanford University scientists<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Findings Explained<\/td>\nThe low genetic diversity likely not due to recent inbreeding, but centuries of small population size, leading to gene \u2018purging\u2019<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Adaptive Impact<\/td>\nPersistent low genetic diversity could make snow leopards vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Unique Purging Process<\/td>\nHistorically, harmful mutations were weeded out since unsuccessful reproducers gradually disappeared (purging by inbreeding)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Why is Low Genetic Diversity Concerning?<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 It can reduce the ability to adapt to new diseases or rapid environmental changes.
        \n\u2022 Increases risk from threats like habitat loss, climate change, and reduced prey.
        \n\u2022 May diminish long-term survival prospects despite current population health.<\/p>\n

        Global Population & Conservation Status<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Parameter<\/strong><\/td>\nData \/ Status<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Global Population<\/td>\n4,500\u20137,500 individuals (approximate estimate)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        IUCN Status<\/td>\nVulnerable (downlisted from Endangered in 2017, but still does not meet secure criteria)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Population Trend<\/td>\nStable or declining in many areas<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Snow Leopards in India<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Region<\/strong><\/td>\nEstimated Population (2023)<\/strong><\/td>\nMajor Indian Habitats<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Ladakh<\/td>\n~200<\/td>\nLadakh Range, Hemis NP, Changthang (J&K\/Ladakh)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Himachal Pradesh<\/td>\n51<\/td>\nSpiti Valley, Kibber WLS, Great Himalayan NP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Uttarakhand<\/td>\n27<\/td>\nNanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Gangotri<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Sikkim<\/td>\n20<\/td>\nKhangchendzonga National Park<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Arunachal Pradesh<\/td>\n5<\/td>\nDibang Valley, Tawang<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Total (India)<\/td>\nAbout 350\u2013400<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Major Threats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Threat<\/strong><\/td>\nDescription<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Habitat Loss<\/td>\nInfrastructure, development, and climate change reduce habitat quality<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Prey Decline<\/td>\nLoss or reduction of wild prey due to livestock competition and hunting<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Poaching<\/td>\nHunted for fur, bones, and illegal trade<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Human-Wildlife Conflict<\/td>\nRetaliatory killings over livestock predation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Fragmentation<\/td>\nPopulations isolated due to roads, dams, and urbanization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Climate Change<\/td>\nAlters habitat suitability and prey availability<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Ecological & Human Significance
        \n\u2022 Keystone Species: Controls prey populations, helping maintain ecosystem balance in high-altitude Asian landscapes.
        \n\u2022 Cultural Value: Revered in local folklore and traditional practices across Himalayan communities.
        \n\u2022 Livelihoods: Ecotourism around snow leopard habitats can support local economies when managed sustainably.<\/p>\n

        Conservation Efforts in India<\/strong>
        \nProject Snow Leopard (2009)<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for ecosystem-based conservation across the Himalayan landscape.
        \n\u2022 Emphasizes landscape-level planning, community involvement, and research.<\/p>\n

        National Snow Leopard Ecosystem Protection Programme (NSLEP)<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Launched to implement long-term conservation strategies, improve habitat connectivity, and strengthen protection.<\/p>\n

        NGO & Institutional Efforts<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Wildlife Institute of India, Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF), Snow Leopard Trust, WWF and state forest departments work on research, community programs, and monitoring.<\/p>\n

        Zoo & Captive Breeding<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Some snow leopards are bred in captivity in Indian zoos; such efforts help with education and potential future reinforcement if needed.<\/p>\n

        Study Insights (Stanford & Global Collaboration)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        Parameter<\/strong><\/td>\nSnow Leopard Findings<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Sampling<\/td>\n37 whole-genome sequences (largest dataset so far)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Genetic Diversity<\/td>\nLowest among all big cats<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Cause of Low Diversity<\/td>\nPersistently small, isolated populations; not just recent inbreeding<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Impact<\/td>\nEffective removal of harmful mutations (\u201cpurging\u201d effect) in small populations<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Future Concern<\/td>\nLow adaptability to new diseases and environmental changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Policy and Research Challenges<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Securing funding and field research permissions, particularly in transboundary regions.
        \n\u2022 Harmonizing conservation strategies among 12 snow leopard range countries.
        \n\u2022 Addressing climate-induced habitat change and conflicts with local livelihoods.
        \n\u2022 Enhancing anti-poaching enforcement and reducing illegal trade.
        \n\u2022 Expanding public involvement and community stewardship in fragile mountain ecosystems.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        4. RRI technique yields certified randomness with one qubit<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

        GS paper III \u2013<\/strong> science and technology Achievements of Indians In S&T\"\"<\/p>\n

        Context:<\/strong> The Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru, has successfully mastered a landmark technique to generate and certify true quantum randomness using a single qubit via the Leggett\u2013Garg Inequality (LGI) framework. This achievement has set a new benchmark for practical and accessible quantum-secure solutions, attracting global attention.<\/p>\n

        What is Quantum Randomness?<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Definition: Quantum randomness refers to complete unpredictability inherent in quantum processes\u2014outcomes that are fundamentally unknowable until measured, arising directly from the laws of quantum physics.
        \n\u2022 Contrast with Classical Systems: While conventional computers use pseudorandom number generators (which are ultimately deterministic if the seed is known), quantum systems provide unpredictability even in principle.
        \n\u2022 Significance: This kind of randomness is critical for areas like cryptography, data security, scientific modeling, and online transactions, where predictability could be exploited by hackers or produce unreliable results.<\/p>\n

        RRI\u2019s Breakthrough: Certified Quantum Randomness with One Qubit<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Major Discovery: The RRI team led by Prof. Urbasi Sinha demonstrated, for the first time, that certified quantum randomness can be generated and verified using just a single qubit on a conventional cloud-based IBM quantum computer.
        \n\u2022 Accessibility: This technique eliminates the need for expensive lab setups or elaborate multiparticle experiments\u2014making certified randomness generation possible even remotely and affordably.
        \n\u2022 Key Outcome: The method proves that even imperfect or noisy quantum computers can reliably produce random numbers that are provably unpredictable and fundamentally secure.<\/p>\n

        Leggett\u2013Garg Inequality (LGI)\u2013Based Certification: How it Works<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Foundation: The LGI is a test that distinguishes between classical (predictable) and quantum (intrinsically unpredictable) behaviors.
        \n\u2022 RRI\u2019s Approach: The research involved measuring a single qubit at three different times and analyzing whether its behavior conformed to quantum mechanics rather than classical realism.
        \n\u2022 Critical Checks:
        \nLGI Violation: Confirmed quantum, not classical, randomness.
        \nNo Signalling in Time: Ensured each measurement was independent, ruling out hidden or device-based interference.
        \n\u2022 Result: Fulfilling both standards means the randomness obtained was \u201ccertified\u201d as truly quantum, not a result of device noise or external manipulation.<\/p>\n

        Applications and Broader Impact<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Cybersecurity: Enables creation of absolutely unpredictable encryption keys for securing sensitive data and online communications.
        \n\u2022 Cloud Quantum Access: Allows users and researchers worldwide to generate and use certified random numbers from cloud-based quantum computers.
        \n\u2022 Quantum Device Testing: Acts as a direct benchmark to test and validate the quantum nature and reliability of various quantum computers.
        \n\u2022 Better Science and AI: Essential for high-integrity simulations, artificial intelligence, and unbiased data analysis dependent on unpredictability.
        \n\u2022 Strategic Value: Positions India as a global leader in practical quantum technology and digital security solutions as part of the National Quantum Mission.<\/p>\n

        Key Scientific Message<\/strong>
        \nThis work affirms that genuine randomness is a fundamental part of nature, validating a central prediction of quantum theory. It also democratises quantum-certified randomness, making high-grade cryptographic tools accessible for global digital security and scientific innovation.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        5. Volga <\/strong>River<\/span><\/h3>\n

        GS paper I:<\/strong> Geography -Salient Features of World\u2019s Physical Geography<\/p>\n

        Volga River<\/strong>
        \nGeographic Features\"\"<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Longest River in Europe: Measures approximately 3,500 km, starting in the Valdai Hills northwest of Moscow and terminating at the Caspian Sea near Astrakhan.
        \n\u2022 Drainage Basin: Covers 1.35 million sq. km, making it one of Europe\u2019s largest river systems; its major tributaries include the Kama, Oka, Vetluga, and Sura.<\/p>\n

        Historical and Strategic Importance<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 World War II Front: The Volga was a decisive location during the Battle of Stalingrad, playing a major role in Russian military history.
        \n\u2022 Symbol of Unity: Often called \u201cMother Volga,\u201d this river is deeply woven into Russian identity and folklore, representing endurance and national unity.<\/p>\n

        Economic Significance<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Agricultural Output: Supports about a quarter of Russia\u2019s agricultural production and is vital for irrigation.
        \n\u2022 Industrial Activities: Facilitates industrial fishing, oil refining, shipbuilding, and hydroelectric power.
        \n\u2022 Transportation Network: Linked to the Baltic, Black, and Caspian Seas by canals and reservoirs, forming the backbone of Russia\u2019s inland transportation system.<\/p>\n

        Urban and Industrial Corridor<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Major Cities: Key Russian urban centers such as Kazan, Samara, Nizhny Novgorod, and Volgograd are established along its banks, creating an industrial-agricultural core region.<\/p>\n

        Ecological and Biodiversity Value<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Biodiversity Hotspot: The river and its delta support approximately 260 bird species and 70 fish species.
        \n\u2022 Environmental Challenges: Pollution and ecological pressures threaten the river\u2019s rich biodiversity and fisheries.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        6. Siddi T<\/strong>ribes<\/span><\/h3>\n

        GS PAPER I:<\/strong> Indian society -Salient features of Indian Society\"\"<\/p>\n

        Context:<\/strong> President Droupadi Murmu met members of Gujarat\u2019s Siddi Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) community and praised their 72% literacy rate as a sign of social progress.<\/p>\n

        About the Siddi Community:<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Overview: An Afro-Indian tribal group descended from Bantu-speaking peoples of Southeast Africa, brought to India via the Indian Ocean slave trade (7th\u201319th centuries).
        \n\u2022 Arrival in India: First arrived at Bharuch port (628 CE) with Arab traders; major influxes during Muhammad bin Qasim\u2019s conquest (712 CE) and later under Portuguese and British.
        \n\u2022 Migration & Settlement: Brought as soldiers, sailors, slaves, and servants; some escaped bondage to form independent forest settlements.
        \n\u2022 Genealogy: Studies show 60\u201375 % African admixture mixed with Indian and Portuguese ancestry accumulated over two centuries.
        \n\u2022 Geographic Distribution: Concentrated in Karnataka (Uttara Kannada, Belgaum, Dharwad) and Gujarat (Junagadh, Gir-Somnath, Saurashtra); smaller groups in Maharashtra, Goa, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh; total population 40 k\u20132.5 lakh.
        \n\u2022 Historical Role: Served in Deccan Sultanate and Nizam armies; most famous figure, Malik Ambar (1600\u20131626), Ethiopian-origin prime minister of Ahmadnagar (now Ahilyanagar).<\/p>\n

        Cultural and Demographic Features:<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Social Status: Recognised as Scheduled Tribe (ST) in five regions and as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
        \n\u2022 Language & Culture: Speak regional languages, Gujarati, Konkani, Marathi, Kannada, but retain African musical and spiritual traditions, notably the Goma\/Dhamaal dance rooted in Ngoma drumming and ancestral worship.
        \n\u2022 Religion: Predominantly Muslim (\u2248 99 % in Gujarat) with Hindu and Christian minorities; practices blend Sufi, African, and Indian folk elements.
        \n\u2022 Livelihoods & Economy: Depend on agriculture, forest labour, crafts, and daily wage work; socio-economic deprivation and limited access to education, health, housing persist.
        \n\u2022 Cultural Continuity: Maintain African-Indian fusion in music, attire, and cuisine; Marfa music in Hyderabad and Dhamaal dance near Sasan Gir remain iconic.
        \n\u2022 Sports & Identity: Active in boxing and football, using sport for youth empowerment and social mobility.<\/p>\n

         <\/p>\n

        7. 2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

        GS-III (Economy, growth, innovation, development)\"\"<\/p>\n

        Context:<\/strong> The 2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences was awarded to Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion, and Peter Howitt for their landmark work on how innovation drives economic growth through the process of creative destruction and technological progress.<\/p>\n

        Nobel Economics Prize:<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Full Title: Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel.
        \n\u2022 Established: 1968 by Sweden\u2019s central bank, not included among the original Nobel Prizes instituted by Alfred Nobel in 1895.
        \n\u2022 Award Ceremony: Presented along with other Nobel Prizes on December 10, Nobel\u2019s death anniversary.
        \n\u2022 Components: Diploma, gold medal, and a prize money (2025: roughly $1.2 million).
        \n\u2022 Selection: Administered by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Sweden.<\/p>\n

        2025 Nobel Economics Laureates<\/strong>
        \nName Affiliation Contribution<\/strong>
        \nJoel Mokyr Northwestern University Studied the impact of scientific knowledge, cultural openness, and Enlightenment institutions on the Industrial Revolution and economic growth.<\/p>\n

        Philippe Aghion Coll\u00e8ge de France, INSEAD, LSE Developed the Schumpeterian theory of innovation-driven growth, focusing on creative destruction.<\/p>\n

        Peter Howitt Brown University Co-developed the Aghion\u2013Howitt Growth Model integrating firm-level innovation into macroeconomic growth.<\/p>\n

        Main Contributions of the Winners<\/strong>
        \nJoel Mokyr<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 Differentiated \u201cprescriptive knowledge\u201d (know-how) from \u201cpropositional knowledge\u201d (scientific understanding).
        \n\u2022 Showed how the Enlightenment fostered intellectual openness and acceptance of disruptive innovation.
        \n\u2022 Linked the Scientific Revolution to a shift where invention and craftsmanship became drivers of economic and societal change.
        \nPhilippe Aghion & Peter Howitt
        \n\u2022 Co-created the Schumpeterian Growth Model (1992), mathematically explaining how innovation, competition, and firm turnover sustain long-term growth.
        \n\u2022 Illustrated the concept of “creative destruction,” where new entrepreneurs replace incumbent firms, stimulating stable economic progress.
        \n\u2022 Integrated innovation, competition, R&D, savings, and markets into a unified framework for understanding dynamic growth.<\/p>\n

        Key Takeaways from the Nobel Committee<\/strong>
        \n\u2022 The research explains why continuous innovation\u2014not just capital and labor\u2014fuels modern economic development.
        \n\u2022 Emphasizes that economic stagnation was once the norm; persistent growth is a recent phenomenon thanks to innovation and supportive institutions.
        \n\u2022 Offers new ways for policymakers to understand the links between knowledge creation, competition, and prosperity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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