On July 25, 2025, the district administration of Kandhamal, Odisha, lodged a police complaint after two Standard X students tested positive for pregnancy. District Welfare Officer Rabi Narayan Mishra stated that an investigation was requested to uncover the circumstances surrounding the pregnancies. The girls were subjected to medical assessments following their return from a long vacation, where unusual symptoms led to testing at a sub-divisional hospital, confirming the pregnancies.

Key details of the situation include:

• Date of Incident: July 25, 2025; pregnancies confirmed shortly after schools reopened on June 21, 2025, with the two girls returning in early July.
• District Welfare Officer: Rabi Narayan Mishra.
• Government Protocol: Normal health checks for girls in residential schools, particularly after vacations, to monitor for any early signs of pregnancy or other health issues.

The situation in Kandhamal reflects a broader concern within the Odisha educational system, specifically regarding the safety of tribal girl students. The ST & SC Development, Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department reported that across 188 residential schools exclusively for tribal girls, there were 22 cases of sexual assault involving 34 individuals as accused. Alarmingly, between 2018 and 2023, 12 of these victims are confirmed to have given birth.

Important statistics:

• Number of Residential Schools: 188, specifically for tribal girls.
• Total Enrollment: 62,385 girls in these schools, while the state operates 1,737 residential schools with an aggregate of 426,903 students predominantly from tribal communities.
• Report Findings: A 2018 study by the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI) highlighted the prevalence of sexual violence in residential schools, confirming numerous allegations, particularly across five districts: Koraput, Balasore, Nayagarh, Mayurbhanj, and Sundargarh.

The SCSTRTI study analyzed 29 cases of sexual abuse from 2011 to 2016, revealing serious concerns regarding staff involvement:

• Accused Personnel: 13 headmasters and 4 teachers implicated in the abuse cases.

In response to these alarming findings, the Odisha government has implemented guidelines to enhance oversight of girl students' health and safety. Post-vacation health check-ups have become compulsory to identify incidents of pregnancy that may arise during students' time away from residential facilities.

In summary, this distressing incident in Kandhamal underscores ongoing issues regarding the safety and wellbeing of students, particularly within tribal educational institutions in Odisha, revealing systemic flaws that have come to light through various reports and investigations.

Key Points:

• Police Complaint Filed: July 25, 2025.
• Pregnancy Cases: Two girls in Standard X confirmed pregnant.
• Medical Check-Ups: Conducted post-vacation to monitor health.
• Government's Awareness: 22 tribal girls subjected to sexual assault; 12 given birth (2018-2023).
• Educational Institutions: 188 residential schools for tribal girls; overall 1,737 schools with 426,903 enrolled students.
• Research Report (2018): Indicated substantial cases of sexual violence; implicated staff members.
• Government Response: New health monitoring guidelines and strict check-ups for victims.

On July 25, 2025, several significant developments took place in India, spanning electoral processes, defense operations, international relations, trade agreements, legislative actions, health concerns, and social issues.

Summary:

1. Electoral Roll Update:

   • The Election Commission of India announced that nearly 66 lakh voters are unlikely to be included in the draft electoral roll set for publication on August 1, 2025. This is pertinent to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, with July 25 being the last day for submission of enumeration forms.

2. Defense Readiness:

   • Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan reaffirmed the importance of continuous military preparedness, emphasizing during his comments on Operation Sindoor that “there are no runners-up in war.”

3. India-Maldives Relations:

   • Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu expressed gratitude towards India for its “pivotal role” in assisting the Maldives with its economic challenges. Both leaders have defined a roadmap for future cooperation.

4. India-UK Trade Agreement:

   • The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the UK is projected to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI) in India. Key to this is a local sourcing norm stipulating that only domestically produced goods qualify for tariff reductions under the agreement.

5. Legislative Concerns in West Bengal:

   • West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose returned the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024 to the state government for reconsideration, focusing on concerns related to the death penalty provisions.

6. Covid-19 Vaccination and Health Impact:

   • Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda reported that COVID-19 vaccinations do not affect the risk of heart attacks. He added that data concerning heart attack occurrences is not retained centrally.

7. China’s Maritime Ambitions:

   • The Indian government remains vigilant regarding China’s aims of becoming a leading maritime power. The Centre confirmed to Parliament its monitoring of developments in the Indian Ocean Region that affect India's security and economic interests.

8. Citizenship for Displaced Persons:

   • A significant milestone was achieved as 185 displaced persons from Pakistan received Indian citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. These individuals, many of whom have lived in districts such as Rajkot, Morbi, and Kutch for years, received their citizenship documents in Rajkot.

9. Political Commentary:

   • Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning if he would consider retirement at age 75, as suggested by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

10. Inquiry into Shootout Incident in Jammu:

    • Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, called for an inquiry concerning the recent killing of a 21-year-old during a reported shootout, amplifying demands from citizens and political factions.

Important Sentences:

• The Election Commission reported nearly 66 lakh voters may not make it to the draft electoral roll.
• General Anil Chauhan emphasized that military readiness is paramount with ongoing Operation Sindoor.
• President Muizzu recognized India’s crucial support during the Maldives’ economic crisis.
• The CETA aims to boost FDI by mandating domestic sourcing for tariff benefits.
• Governor Bose raised reservations about the death penalty in the Aparajita Bill.
• Minister Nadda clarified COVID vaccination's ineffect on heart attack risk and lack of centralized data.
• The Indian government is closely monitoring China's maritime activities for their implications on security.
• 185 displaced persons received Indian citizenship facilitated by the CAA.
• Congress leader Kharge questioned PM Modi’s potential retirement age.
• An inquiry into the killing of a youth in Jammu has been called for by CM Omar Abdullah.

These points encapsulate the main developments and concerns reflected in the news article dated July 25, 2025.

In a notable advancement in the field of inclusive education, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), along with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), executed a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement focuses on amending school curricula to incorporate education on disability rights early in a student’s schooling, aligning with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.

Key Highlights:

• Objectives of the MoU:

  • Reform school curricula to include foundational teachings on disability rights.
  • Foster early awareness on the inclusion of disabled persons, aiming for societal changes in perceptions and architectural practices.

• Issues in Urban Planning:

  • Despite legal frameworks such as the RPwD Act, 2016 and the Unified Building By-laws (UBBL) in Delhi, accessibility remains inadequate.
  • A 2016 audit reported that:
    • 30% of government buildings in Delhi lacked ramps.
    • 82% of public toilets were found to be inaccessible.
    • 94% of healthcare facilities were not disability-friendly.

• Education Gaps:

  • Training in disability inclusion is lacking in engineering and architecture programs.
  • Prestigious institutions like IIT Delhi and the School of Planning and Architecture do not prioritize inclusive design in their core curricula.
  • Sections 40 and 44 of the RPwD Act clearly mandate accessible infrastructure, but practical application is deficient.

• Legal Framework and Compliance:

  • The Supreme Court ruling in Rajive Raturi vs Union of India (2024) ruled that accessibility standards must be enforced mandatorily.
  • Although penalties for non-compliance with the RPwD Act exist (fines ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakh), enforcement remains inconsistent and superficial.
  • The Delhi High Court in Nipun Malhotra vs GNCTD (2018) highlighted the lack of sensitization among authorities regarding disability rights, citing inadequate training as a contributing factor.

• Need for Educational Reform:

  • The DEPwD's MoU should catalyze further structural transformations in professional education across architecture, engineering, and urban planning.
  • Accessibility must be integrated as essential training rather than treated as elective or supplementary.

• Public Accountability and Future Directions:

  • There is an urgent need to enhance public accountability frameworks for those involved in construction and design to instill genuine adherence to accessibility provisions.
  • The DEPwD is seeking public comments on a new draft for the Built Environment Accessibility Rules, targeted for implementation by May 2025, integrating feedback to improve the existing bureaucratic frameworks.

Conclusion:

The effort spearheaded by the DEPwD underscores the need for a systemic overhaul in educational practices concerning disability inclusion, aiming to embed accessibility into the core of professional training. This approach advocates for a comprehensive educational base that equips future architects and engineers with not only technical skills but also a deep-seated understanding of the importance of designing inclusive spaces. Only through such foundational education can tangible change be achieved in creating a truly accessible built environment.

Important Facts:

• MoU signed between DEPwD, NIOS, NCERT for curriculum reform.
• RPwD Act, 2016 enshrines the rights of persons with disabilities.
• Supreme Court judgment emphasizing mandatory compliance with accessibility norms.
• Significant gaps in training engineers and architects regarding accessibility.
• Future reforms in education crucial for effective implementation of existing laws on accessibility.

On October 12, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with the President of the Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, at the Presidential Office in Male. The meeting underscored the historical ties and friendship between India and the Maldives, marking the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Key Highlights:

• Ceremonial Welcome: Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Republic Square before the meeting.

• Bilateral Relations:

  • Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the "Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership" initiated during President Muizzu's past visit to India in October 2024.
  • Prime Minister Modi expressed India's "Neighbourhood First" approach and the Vision MAHASAGAR policy aimed at strengthening ties with Maldives.

• Economic Cooperation:

  • A proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) were discussed to enhance economic ties and create new opportunities.
  • The discussions included the importance of adopting digital solutions such as UPI, acceptance of the RUPAY card, and conducting trade in local currencies.

• Development Partnership:

  • The leaders emphasized collaboration in various sectors including health, climate action, infrastructure support, and capacity building.
  • They noted the impact of strong people-to-people ties and established a framework for defense and maritime security cooperation under the Colombo Security Conclave.

• Condemnation of Terrorism: Prime Minister Modi thanked President Muizzu for condemning the Pahalgam terror attack, signifying solidarity in combating terrorism.

• Bilateral Agreements:

  • Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged, covering fields such as fisheries, meteorology, digital infrastructure, and Indian pharmacopoeia.
  • A new Line of Credit (LoC) worth approximately $550 million (INR 4850 crores) was established to support infrastructure development in the Maldives.
  • An amendment to existing LoCs was agreed upon, reducing Maldives' debt repayment obligations by 40%, from USD 51 million to USD 29 million.

• Inauguration of Projects:

  • The leaders virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage system project in Addu city along with six High Impact Community Development Projects.
  • Prime Minister Modi handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles to the Maldives National Defence Force and immigration authorities.
  • He also provided two units of "Aarogya Maitri Health Cube," capable of aiding 200 casualties within 72 hours.

• Environmental Initiatives: In a gesture emphasizing conservation, the leaders planted mango saplings as part of environmental campaigns—India’s "Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam" and Maldives's "Pledge of 5 million Tree Plantations."

• Commitment to Peace and Progress: Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's dedication to support Maldives in line with its priorities, contributing to peace, progress, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.

In summary, this meeting reflects the strengthening of India-Maldives ties marked by cooperation in various fields, focused on mutual development goals and security partnerships, while addressing pertinent issues such as terrorism and climate change.

Important Points:

• Prime Minister Modi met President Muizzu on October 12, 2023, marking 60 years of Maldivian independence.
• Emphasized India-Maldives friendship rooted in deep historical ties.
• Discussed a proposed Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty to enhance economic cooperation.
• Exchanged 6 MoUs pertinent to mutual interests, including infrastructure and health.
• Announced a new LoC of INR 4850 crores for infrastructure development.
• Launched significant projects and handed over key resources to support Maldives’ defense and health sectors.
• Affirmed commitment towards environmental initiatives and combating terrorism collectively.

The Indian government is implementing an array of initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural infrastructure and improving the income of farmers. These initiatives include various schemes that provide financial assistance, technological support, and marketing platforms. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key initiatives and their details:

Key Schemes and Initiatives

• Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF):

  • Provides medium to long-term debt financing for post-harvest management and community farming assets.
  • An allocation of ₹1 Lakh Crore is available through banks with a 3% interest subvention on loans.
  • As of June 30, 2025, ₹66,310 Crore has been sanctioned for 113,419 projects, mobilizing a total investment of ₹107,502 Crore.

• Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure (AMI):

  • A sub-scheme under Integrated Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM) aimed at increasing rural storage capacity.
  • Offers a subsidy of 25% to 33.33% on project costs based on beneficiary categories.
  • Since its inception on April 1, 2001, 49,796 storage projects with a capacity of 982.94 lakh MT have been sanctioned with a subsidy release of ₹4,829.37 Crore.

• National Agriculture Market (e-NAM):

  • A digital platform facilitating online trading of agricultural products to secure better prices for farmers.
  • By June 30, 2025, 1.79 Crore farmers and 2.67 Lakh traders were registered, recording trade worth approximately ₹4.39 lakh Crore.

• Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):

  • Provides financial assistance of 35% (50% in hilly areas) for post-harvest infrastructure.
  • Aimed at supporting entrepreneur-driven initiatives in the horticultural sector.

• Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY):

  • Provides grants-in-aid to State governments for approved agriculture projects.
  • Empowers states with the flexibility to select, plan, approve, and execute projects, catering to local agricultural priorities.

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN):

  • Provides income support of ₹6,000 per year to land-holding farmer families, disbursed in three installments.
  • As of June 30, 2025, benefits worth over ₹3.69 Lakh Crore have been disbursed to eligible families.

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

  • Launched in 2016 to address premium rates and claims for farmers.
  • As of June 30, 2025, 78.41 Crore farmer applications were enrolled, with claims exceeding ₹1,83,259 Crore.

Support for Farmers

1. Credit Access:

   • AIF offers interest-subsidized loans up to ₹2 Crore under CGTMSE coverage.
   • Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme benefits 7.72 Crore farmers, facilitating short-term credit.

2. Technology Support:

   • Promotion of modern technologies through AIF and integration of remote sensing for effective claim settlements under PMFBY.

3. Irrigation:

   • The "Per Drop More Crop" initiative aims to enhance water efficiency through micro-irrigation solutions.

Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives

• Natural Farming Mission (2022-23):

  • Aims to promote chemical-free agriculture, enhancing soil health and biodiversity.

• FPO Policy:

  • Focused on collective farming, promoting productivity and better income for producers.

• Soil Health & Fertility Scheme:

  • Involves the issuance of Soil Health Cards to farmers, aimed at promoting Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices.

Conclusion

These measures reflect the Indian government's commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability against the backdrop of climate change and market dynamics. The initiatives are geared towards creating a robust agricultural ecosystem that supports the income and welfare of farmers in India.

Important Points

• Government schemes include AIF, AMI, MIDH, RKVY, PM-KISAN, and PMFBY aimed at enhancing agriculture infrastructure and farmer income.
• As of June 30, 2025, significant financial commitments and project sanctions have been made under these schemes.
• The emphasis on technology and sustainable practices underlines the government’s holistic approach to addressing current agricultural challenges.

The ninth edition of Swachh Survekshan, governed by the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)-Urban, underscores its significance as the world’s largest cleanliness survey, evaluating urban sanitation and waste management in over 4,500 cities in India. The survey provides policymakers with essential data, aiming to enhance urban sanitation through competitive assessments and citizen feedback.

Key Highlights:

• Overview and Purpose: The Swachh Survekshan serves as a reality check for urban sanitation, measure gaps, and foster competition among cities to improve cleanliness.

• Historic Participation: In its latest edition, the survey saw participation from more than 4,500 cities, a substantial increase from fewer than 100 in 2016, reinforced by third-party verification and feedback from 140 million citizens.

• Survey Parameters: The assessment covers ten comprehensive parameters including waste segregation, collection, transport, sanitation worker welfare, and grievance redressal.

• Introduction of Super Swachh League: This new framework allows established clean cities like Indore, Surat, and Navi Mumbai, along with 20 other cities across different population sizes, to set benchmarks and stimulate healthy competition, enabling cities like Ahmedabad, Bhopal, and Lucknow to secure top ranks in the million-plus category.

• Focus on Inclusivity: The survey expanded the population categories from two to five, accommodating cities with populations from less than 20,000 to over one million, promoting broader participation.

• Significant Progress: Cities such as Bhubaneswar (moving from 34th to 9th place) and small towns like Aska and Chikiti significantly improved rankings, indicating the potential for cleanliness programs across various states, particularly in Odisha.

• Regional Performance: Southern Indian cities have underperformed, with Bengaluru noted as the least impressive; however, other cities like Hyderabad and Mysuru excelled. The National Capital Region presented mixed results with some areas improving ranks despite negative reports.

• Awards and Recognition: A total of 78 Swachh awards were distributed, promoting cities to become mentors for others, facilitating the spread of best practices.

• Best Practices from Leading Cities: Various cities introduced innovative waste management techniques—Indore excels in waste segregation, Surat generates revenue from treated sewage water, and Visakhapatnam transformed a toxic site into an eco-park.

• Emphasis on Tourist Locations: Cities like Prayagraj received accolades for exceptional sanitation during the Maha Kumbh festival, highlighting the need for sustained cleanliness drives to boost tourism.

• Thematic Focus on Waste Management: The 2025 survey theme, ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle (RRR)’, aims to create jobs and foster enterprise, building on the previous theme of ‘waste to wealth’. However, private sector hesitance regarding the commercial viability of waste-to-energy plants remains a concern.

• Civic Engagement Challenges: While a significant reduction in open defecation has been achieved through SBM, instigating behavioral changes concerning waste management presents challenges.

• Solid Waste Management Strategy: With cities generating approximately 1.5 lakh tonnes of solid waste daily, effective management will rely on decentralized action by urban local bodies (ULBs) for proper segregation and processing of waste, especially difficult categories like plastic and e-waste.

• Potential for Improvement: The transformation of Surat’s sanitation status from a garbage-laden location to a top-ranking city emphasizes that similar advancements are attainable for other Indian cities.

In conclusion, the Swachh Survekshan continues to be a critical tool in driving urban cleanliness initiatives forward, encouraging competition and measurable progress across diverse urban landscapes in India.

Important Points:

• Swachh Survekshan evaluates urban sanitation in over 4,500 cities.
• Introduction of Super Swachh League promotes competition.
• Expansion of (population) categories enhances inclusivity.
• Significant improvements noted in cities like Bhubaneswar and Aska.
• Leading cities adopt best practices in waste management.
• Tourist-centric cleanliness initiatives gain recognition.
• Focus on ‘RRR’ approach aims to stimulate job creation.
• Challenges in civic engagement and waste management persist.
• Effective management of solid waste is crucial for urban cleanliness.

Summary of the Invasive Species Lantana camara in Himachal Pradesh

Introduction

• Lantana camara, an invasive alien species, significantly threatens the biodiversity of Himachal Pradesh, infesting approximately 3,25,282 hectares of forested areas.
• Introduced in India during the early 18th century from Central and South America, Lantana has proliferated across the tropical regions of the country, including Himachal Pradesh.

Extent of Infestation

• The State Forest Department of Himachal Pradesh conducted surveys in 2010-11 and 2015-16, identifying around 2,35,491.93 hectares of forest significantly infested with Lantana.
• The recent India State of Forest Report 2023 indicates that 3,252.82 square kilometers (3,25,282 hectares) of forest area is infested.

Efforts and Outcomes

• Since 2009-10, the Forest Department has cleared 51,114.35 hectares of Lantana using the "cut root stock" method, and aims for an average eradication of 1,000 hectares annually.
• The department plans to plant native species following the removal of Lantana to prevent reinfestation.

Ecological Impacts

• Lantana camara poses serious risks to native flora by forming dense thickets that produce allelochemicals, inhibiting the growth of other plants under its canopy and leading to reduced species biodiversity.
• The infestation has been particularly aggressive in areas with sparse canopy coverage, threatening the overall ecological balance.

Expert Opinions

• Kuldip Dogra, a noted taxonomist, advocated for a transdisciplinary approach involving various stakeholders, including local communities and civil society, to develop socioeconomic alternatives for managing Lantana biomass.
• Suggestions include transforming Lantana biomass into furniture or fuelwood and using it for organic compost production.

Management Strategies

• Experts emphasize the need for stronger preventive measures, including avoiding the cultivation of invasive species for landscaping or economic purposes around highways.
• Early detection and eradication strategies are critical, with recommendations for a more rigorous implementation of eradication programs within strict timelines.

Recommendations from Experts

• G.S. Goraya, a researcher on floral diversity, highlighted the importance of tackling higher elevation infestations first to prevent further spread into lower regions.
• There is a consensus that an integrated approach involving local participation and alternative economic options can effectively manage the invasive species.

Government Policy

• The State Forest Department's management policy outlines that aggressive growth of Lantana camara, particularly along forest edges with sparse canopies, necessitates immediate action.
• The department's ongoing efforts to counter Lantana’s spread are a part of broader goals to enhance native biodiversity and forest health.

Important Points:

• Invasive Alien Species: Lantana camara introduced in the 18th century, threatens biodiversity in Himachal Pradesh.
• Extent of Infestation: Approximately 3,25,282 hectares of forests affected.
• Forest Department Actions: Cleared 51,114.35 hectares since 2009-10; aims to eradicate 1,000 hectares annually.
• Ecological Threats: Alters native flora dynamics, reducing biodiversity due to dense thickets and allelochemical production.
• Expert Calls for Action: A transdisciplinary approach involving stakeholders is essential for effective management.
• Management Strategies: Focus on prevention, early detection, and eradication, prioritizing higher elevations.
• Government Policy: Emphasizes integrated efforts to restore forest health and biodiversity.

The recent discourse in the Indian Parliament regarding climate resilience and pollution control underscores the Government's commitment to addressing climate change through various initiatives. Below is a comprehensive summary of the relevant actions, schemes, and frameworks in place.

Key Initiatives and Schemes

1. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):

   • Launched to enhance climate resilience and incorporates nine national missions.
   • Focus areas include agriculture, energy efficiency, forests, solar energy, and sustainable habitat, with six missions targeting adaptation for vulnerable communities.

2. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):

   • A multi-sector initiative aimed at improving air quality in 130 cities across 24 States/Union Territories.
   • The program has received a performance-linked grant of Rs. 13,036.52 crore for air quality improvement measures.

3. Regulatory Framework:

   • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) mandates high-pollution industries to install Online Continuous Effluent/Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS).
   • Real-time monitoring ensures compliance with environmental standards and triggers alerts for corrective measures when pollution exceeds permissible limits.

4. Water Pollution Management:

   • CPCB has directed compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for sewer management.
   • Establishment of a National Water Quality Monitoring Network (NWMP), which covers 4736 monitoring locations across India to assess aquatic pollution.

5. Polluted River Stretches:

   • Identification of 311 Polluted River Stretches (PRS) on 279 rivers based on their Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels.
   • Action plans for rejuvenation are drafted by state-level River Rejuvenation Committees.

6. Solid Waste Management:

   • In accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, local authorities are required to engage communities in proper waste management practices.
   • Emphasis on public awareness campaigns regarding home composting and decentralized waste processing is mandated.

Environmental Awareness Campaign

• On World Environment Day, 2024, the Prime Minister launched the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (# Plant4Mother)', encouraging tree plantation as a tribute to motherhood and Earth preservation.
• An impressive total of 1.64 billion trees have been planted under this initiative.

Summary of Legislative Provisions

• Section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 frame the guidelines for pollution control and environmental protection initiatives undertaken by the CPCB.
• Guidelines for the restoration of water bodies were issued by CPCB in June 2019 to promote stakeholder involvement in the rejuvenation efforts.

Factual Takeaways

• India’s commitment to climate resilience is reflected in multiple sectoral adaptations, regulatory measures, and community-oriented public health initiatives.
• The active involvement of the Central and State Governments, local bodies, and communities is critical in achieving India’s climate goals amid rising challenges posed by climate change.

This summary encapsulates the government’s multi-pronged approach to enhance climate resilience and combat pollution through structured initiatives and community involvement, aiming for a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

The Indian Parliament's recent discussion highlighted various measures and schemes under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which is aimed at addressing the effects of climate change across multiple sectors, including agriculture, water, energy, and health. The NAPCC is comprised of nine national missions, six of which primarily focus on enhancing adaptation and climate resilience for vulnerable communities.

Key Points:

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):

  • Includes nine missions covering diverse areas: agriculture, energy efficiency, green India initiatives, the Himalayan ecosystem, human health, solar energy, climate knowledge, sustainable habitat, and water.

• National Mission for a Green India (GIM):

  • Launched in FY 2015-16, aims to enhance and protect India's forest cover through plantation activities.
  • A total of Rs. 982.34 crores has been allocated for eco-restoration in seventeen states and one union territory, Jammu & Kashmir.
  • An additional Rs. 619.79 crores will be disbursed from FY 2020-21 to 2024-25 for GIM activities.

• Financial Investment in Climate Initiatives:

  • Approximately Rs. 118 crores utilized for activities under National Missions such as NMSHE and NMSKCC in the last five years.

• National Solar Mission (NSM):

  • Aims to position India as a global leader in solar energy, leading to the establishment of 116.25 GW capacity by June 2025.
  • Budget estimates for solar energy between 2020 and 2025 include Rs. 38,420.82 crores (BE) and Rs. 31,483.86 crores (RE).

• National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):

  • Introduced to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change on agriculture with the role of the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA).
  • An allocated budget of Rs. 242.71 crores was provided for NICRA, with Rs. 235.54 crores utilized to promote climate-resilient technologies.

• National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE):

  • Encompasses the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme which has covered 1,333 industrial units, saving 27.305 MTOE and reducing CO2 emissions by 116.54 million tonnes.
  • The Financing Energy Efficiency Programme (FEEP) has identified projects worth Rs. 2,300 crores, with an outlay of Rs. 167 crores approved for 2021-2026.

• National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH):

  • Implemented across all 36 States/UTs focusing on health impacts due to climate change, with a budget allocation of Rs. 249.49 crores over five years.

• Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA: CTR):

  • Launched in 2021 to promote rainwater harvesting, providing grants for State-Specific Action Plans from the National Water Mission (NWM).

• National Mission on Sustainable Habitat (NMSH):

  • Implemented through flagship missions such as AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Smart Cities Mission, with financial allocations fostering urban rejuvenation.

This structured approach by the government reflects a consolidated effort in enhancing climate resilience, promoting sustainable practices across various sectors, and engaging states in comprehensive strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation. These measures are critical for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring that vulnerable communities receive necessary support.

In addition, the efforts echo the commitment to sustainable development goals and international climate commitments made by India on global platforms.

Summary of the Har Ghar Jal Scheme Implementation as of July 2025

The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), initiated by the Government of India in August 2019, aims to ensure the provision of safe drinking water through functional tap water connections to every rural household across the country. As of July 21, 2025, significant progress has been made under this initiative.

Key Highlights:

• Initial Situation: At the inception of the mission, only 3.23 crore (16.7%) of rural households had access to tap water connections.
• Current Status: By July 21, 2025, the total number of rural households with tap water connections has increased to 15.67 crore (80.94%) out of a total of 19.36 crore rural households.
• Additional Connections: Since the program commenced, an additional 12.44 crore households have been equipped with tap water connections.

Data Overview (As on July 21, 2025):

• Household Coverage by States/UTs: The report gives detailed state-wise data showing progress in tap water connection coverage. Notable states, such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, display varying degrees of coverage:
  • Uttar Pradesh: 240.85 lakh (90.13%)
  • Maharashtra: 132.02 lakh (89.94%)
  • Rajasthan: 61.11 lakh (56.71%)

Financial Progress:

The financial allocations and utilizations for the implementation of the JJM disclosed significant expenditures across various states. For example:

• Central Share (Total for 2019-2025): The financial contributions both centrally and from state governments reveal the significant investments aimed at water supply development.
• From fiscal year 2019-20 to 2025-26, the cumulative financial progress indicates rigorous investment, with central shares accumulating to substantial figures across states for water provision.

Financial Details (Indicative of Key Yearly Progress):

• 2022-23: Total reported utilization stood at ₹50,667.81 crore.
• 2023-24: Registered utilization reached ₹82,295.58 crore.
• Current Year (as of July 21, 2025): The total expenditure across the states reflects a comprehensive outline of the investments being made towards achieving the mission objectives.

Implementation Strategy:

• The JJM relies upon a decentralized approach where the responsibility of implementation lies with the State Governments and Union Territories.
• Funds allocated under the scheme are monitored to ensure transparency and optimized utilization.

Conclusion:

The ongoing developments emphasize the Indian government's commitment to improving rural water supply through the JJM initiative. Through substantial financial commitments and enhanced infrastructure, the mission aims to provide universal access to safe drinking water, thereby significantly improving health outcomes and the quality of life in rural areas.

Important Points:

• Mission Launch Date: August 2019.
• Initial Coverage: 3.23 crore households with tap water connections (16.7%).
• Current Coverage: 15.67 crore households (80.94% coverage).
• Additional Connections Since Launch: 12.44 crore.
• State-wise Notables: Uttar Pradesh leads in coverage, with significant contributions from Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
• Overall Investment: 50,667.81 crore reported utilization in 2022-23; 82,295.58 crore in 2023-24.
• Decentralized Implementation: Primarily executed through State Governments and UTs.

The progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission indicates a substantial shift towards addressing rural water supply issues in India, underpinning the governmental commitment to sustainable development goals related to water and sanitation.