16 May 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. DRDO Develops High-Pressure Polymeric Membrane for Sea Water Desalination

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 16, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 3: Science & Technology

Context

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed an indigenous nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane designed for high-pressure sea water desalination, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in critical technologies.

Content

• Development Details:

  • The Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), a DRDO laboratory based in Kanpur, developed the membrane within eight months.

  • The membrane addresses stability challenges posed by chloride ions in saline water, making it suitable for desalination plants on Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships.

• Testing and Trials:

  • Initial technical trials were conducted on Offshore Patrolling Vessels (OPVs) of the ICG.

  • The membrane’s performance and safety were found satisfactory during these trials.

  • Final operational clearance is pending after 500 hours of operational testing.

• Significance:

  • The membrane’s development is a stride towards the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense technologies.

  • It holds potential for addressing freshwater scarcity in coastal regions through desalination.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of indigenous technological developments like DRDO’s high-pressure polymeric membrane in addressing India’s water scarcity challenges and promoting self-reliance. (10 marks, 150 words)

2. Dr. Ajay Kumar Assumes Charge as Chairman, Union Public Service Commission

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 16, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 2: Governance; Civil Services; Public Institutions

Context

Dr. Ajay Kumar, a seasoned Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and former Defence Secretary, has taken oath as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), bringing extensive administrative experience to the role.

Content 

• Professional Background:

  • Dr. Kumar is a 1985 batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre.

  • He has held key positions in both state and central governments, including roles in the Electronics and Information Technology Department and as Secretary of Defence Production.

• Educational Qualifications:

  • B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kanpur.

  • M.S. in Applied Economics and Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Minnesota, USA.

• Contributions and Achievements:

  • Instrumental in launching e-Governance initiatives such as Jeevan Pramaan, myGov, and the Biometric Attendance System.

  • Recipient of several awards, including the “Silver Elephant” medallion and the “Technovation Sarabhai Award.”

Practice Question: Evaluate the impact of leadership with diverse administrative experience on the functioning and reforms of constitutional bodies like the UPSC. (10 marks, 150 words)

3. India-EU Collaborate on Research Initiatives Addressing Marine Plastic Litter

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 16, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 3: Environment; Science & Technology

Context

India and the European Union have launched joint research initiatives focusing on combating marine plastic pollution and developing waste-to-green hydrogen technologies, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable development.

Content 

• Collaborative Framework:

  • Under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), established in 2022, two coordinated research calls have been launched.

  • A joint investment of ₹391 crore (~€41 million) supports these initiatives, co-funded by Horizon Europe and the Government of India.

• Research Focus Areas:

  • Marine Plastic Litter (MPL):

    • Aims to develop solutions to monitor, assess, and mitigate the impacts of marine pollution, including microplastics and heavy metals.

    • Supports international commitments like the UN Decade of Ocean Science and aligns with India’s National Marine Litter Policy.

  • Waste-to-Green Hydrogen (W2GH):

    • Focuses on converting biogenic waste into hydrogen, promoting clean energy solutions.

    • Aligns with the EU’s Hydrogen Strategy and India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.

• Significance:

  • Strengthens India-EU collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.

  • Promotes innovation and development of sustainable technologies with global impact

Practice Question: Evaluate India’s preparedness and strategic initiatives to lead in the development of 6G technology.

4. Prime Minister Chairs High-Level Meeting to Review Progress of Fisheries Sector

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 16, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 3: Agriculture; Economy

Context

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a high-level meeting to assess the advancements in India’s fisheries sector, emphasizing modernization, technological integration, and sustainable practices to enhance productivity and livelihoods.

Content 

• Key Focus Areas:

  • Technological Integration:

    • Advocated for the use of satellite technology to optimize fish resource utilization and ensure fishermen’s safety.

    • Suggested employing drones for transporting fresh catch to markets, enhancing the supply chain.

  • Modernization Efforts:

    • Emphasized the development of smart harbours and markets.

    • Called for improvements in processing, packaging, and private sector investment.

  • Sustainable Practices:

    • Promoted fisheries in Amrit Sarovars and the cultivation of ornamental fisheries for livelihood support.

    • Encouraged exploration of seaweed utilization in various sectors, including fuel and pharmaceuticals.

  • Strategic Initiatives:

    • Highlighted the need to boost fish supply in landlocked areas.

    • Suggested capacity building for fishermen and maintaining a negative list to eliminate growth hindrances.

• Achievements and Investments:

  • Since 2015, the government has invested ₹38,572 crore through schemes like the Blue Revolution and PMMSY.

  • India achieved an annual fish production of 195 lakh tons in 2024-25, with a sectoral growth rate exceeding 9%.

Practice Question: Evaluate the role of technological advancements and policy interventions in transforming India’s fisheries sector into a sustainable and economically viable industry. (15 marks, 250 words)

Check this out 15 May 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC