28 May 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
1. Coal Imports During FY 2024-25 Drop by 7.9% Compared to FY 2023-24
(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 28, 2025)
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Topic: GS Paper 3 – Energy, Economy, Environment |
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Context |
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Content
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Key Highlights:
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Coal imports decreased by 7.9%, totaling 243.62 million tonnes (MT) compared to 264.53 MT in FY 2023-24.
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This reduction led to foreign exchange savings of approximately $7.93 billion (₹60,681.67 crore).
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The Non-Regulated Sector (excluding power) saw an 8.95% decline in imports.
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Imports for blending by thermal power plants decreased sharply by 41.4%, despite a 3.04% growth in coal-based power generation.
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Government Initiatives:
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Implementation of Commercial Coal Mining and Mission Coking Coal to boost domestic production.
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Achieved a 5% growth in coal output during FY 2024-25 compared to the previous fiscal year.
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Analysis:
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The reduction in imports signifies progress towards energy self-reliance and economic savings.
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Challenges remain in meeting domestic demand for coking and high-grade thermal coal.
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Strategic measures are essential to strengthen domestic production and ensure energy security.
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Conclusion:
India’s concerted efforts to reduce coal imports align with its goals of achieving energy self-sufficiency and economic resilience. Continued focus on enhancing domestic production and addressing quality-specific demands is crucial.
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Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s reduction in coal imports during FY 2024-25. What measures have contributed to this decline, and what challenges persist in achieving complete energy self-sufficiency? |
2. ICG-Led Response Mitigates Oil Spread After Liberian Container Vessel Sinking
(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 28, 2025)
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Topic: GS Paper 3 – Disaster Management, Environment |
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Content
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Incident Overview:
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The Liberian container vessel MSC ELSA 3 sank off the Alappuzha coast, Kerala, leading to potential oil leakage.
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As of May 26, 2025, no oil had reached the shoreline, and 46 cargo containers washed ashore across three coastal districts.
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Response Measures:
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Deployment of three Offshore Patrol Vessels and the specialized pollution control vessel ICGS Samudra Prahari.
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Daily aerial surveillance and spill response sorties conducted by ICG Dornier aircraft from Kochi.
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Early advisories issued to the Kerala state administration and coordination activated among key stakeholders.
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Analysis:
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The swift and coordinated response highlights the ICG’s preparedness in managing maritime environmental disasters.
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Emphasis on real-time tracking and shoreline preparedness minimized potential ecological impact.
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Conclusion:
The ICG’s proactive measures effectively mitigated the environmental threat posed by the vessel sinking, demonstrating India’s capability in disaster management and environmental protection.
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Practice Question: Analyze the role of the Indian Coast Guard in managing maritime environmental disasters. How did their response to the MSC ELSA 3 incident exemplify effective disaster management practices? |
3. DRDO Inaugurates Quantum Technology Research Centre
(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 28, 2025)
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Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology, Security |
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Content
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Facility Overview:
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Inaugurated on May 27, 2025, at Metcalfe House, Delhi.
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Equipped with state-of-the-art experimental setups for research in critical quantum domains.
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Key Capabilities:
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Characterization of Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers and Distributed Feedback Lasers.
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Test-beds for evaluating single-photon sources.
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Platforms for developing and validating Quantum Key Distribution techniques for ultra-secure communication.
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Strategic Importance:
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Focus on foundational technologies like ultra-small atomic clocks and atomic magnetometers.
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Aims to bolster national security in the post-quantum era.
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Conclusion:
The establishment of QTRC signifies a significant step towards self-reliance in quantum technologies, enhancing India’s strategic capabilities and security infrastructure.
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Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Quantum Technology Research Centre in strengthening India’s strategic and defence capabilities. How does it align with the nation’s goals in quantum technology? |
4. India Records USD 81.04 Billion FDI Inflow in FY 2024–25
(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), May 28, 2025)
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Topic: GS Paper 3 – Economy, Investment |
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Content
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Key Highlights:
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FDI inflow grew by 14% to USD 81.04 billion in FY 2024–25 from USD 71.28 billion in the previous fiscal year.
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The services sector led with a 19% share, followed by computer software and hardware (16%) and trading (8%).
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Manufacturing FDI increased by 18%, reaching USD 19.04 billion.
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Maharashtra attracted the highest share (39%) of total FDI equity inflows, followed by Karnataka (13%) and Delhi (12%).
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Government Reforms:
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Liberalization of FDI norms across multiple sectors, including defence, insurance, and civil aviation.
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Introduction of 100% FDI under the automatic route in coal mining, contract manufacturing, and insurance intermediaries.
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Analysis:
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The steady rise in FDI reflects India’s proactive policy framework and evolving business ecosystem.
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Diversification of source countries and sectors indicates a broad-based investment appeal.
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Conclusion:
India’s robust FDI inflows underscore its position as a preferred global investment destination. Sustained policy reforms and infrastructure development are key to maintaining this momentum.
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Practice Question: Evaluate the factors contributing to the increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India during FY 2024–25. How do these inflows impact the country’s economic growth and development? |
Check this out 27 May 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
