1.Wildlife Conservation 2.The Sliding of the Indian Rupee 3.Bronze Art in India 4.Moonshot Project 5.Project HANUMAN

1.Wildlife Conservation

Why in News?

The world observed World Wildlife Day on 3 March 2026. The theme for 2026 was “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlights the need to conserve medicinal plants that support healthcare systems, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods. India has emphasized conservation of medicinal plants through initiatives of the National Medicinal Plants Board and the National AYUSH Mission.

Key Facts

• India is one of the 17 mega-biodiversity countries of the world.
• It hosts nearly 7–8% of the world’s recorded species while covering only 2.4% of the global land area.
• India possesses around 15,000 medicinal plant species, of which nearly 8,000 species are used in traditional medicine systems.
• The domestic demand for medicinal plants in India exceeds 5,12,000 metric tonnes annually.
• India is the second-largest exporter of medicinal plants globally.
• India has a network of 1,000+ Protected Areas, including National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Conservation Reserves.

Conservation Methods

• In-Situ Conservation: Protection of species within their natural habitats.
• National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries conserve flora and fauna in natural ecosystems.
• Biosphere reserves such as the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve promote ecosystem conservation and sustainable development.
• Medicinal Plants Conservation and Development Areas (MPCDAs) protect medicinal plant diversity in natural habitats.
• Sacred groves are community-protected forest areas based on cultural and religious beliefs.
• Ex-Situ Conservation: Protection of species outside their natural habitats.
• Gene banks maintained by the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources preserve plant genetic material.
• Botanical gardens, zoos, cryopreservation, and herbal gardens help conserve rare and endangered species.

Government Initiatives

• The National Medicinal Plants Board implements a central sector scheme (2021–2026) with an outlay of ₹322.41 crore to promote conservation and sustainable management of medicinal plants.
• The e-CHARAK portal provides a digital platform connecting farmers with herbal traders and improving market access.
• The National AYUSH Mission promotes cultivation of medicinal plants and integration with traditional medicine systems.
• Geographical Indication protection has been granted to products such as Nagauri Ashwagandha and Kashmir Saffron to ensure authenticity and support farmers.

Challenges

• Overexploitation: High commercial demand has led to unsustainable harvesting of medicinal plants from forests.
• Habitat Fragmentation: Infrastructure development and agricultural expansion threaten biodiversity-rich regions such as the Western Ghats.
• Lack of Standardisation: Absence of uniform quality testing and certification limits global market access for small farmers.
• Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns and temperature affect flowering cycles, potency, and productivity of medicinal plants.

Way Forward

• Promote large-scale cultivation of medicinal plants to reduce pressure on wild populations.
• Strengthen traceability systems using digital platforms such as e-CHARAK to ensure sustainable sourcing.
• Encourage bio-prospecting research to explore pharmaceutical potential of India’s medicinal biodiversity.
• Empower local Biodiversity Management Committees for community-led conservation and protection of traditional knowledge.

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding medicinal plant conservation in India:

1. India hosts nearly 7–8% of the world’s recorded species despite occupying only about 2.4% of global land area.
2. Medicinal Plants Conservation and Development Areas (MPCDAs) are examples of ex-situ conservation.
3. The National Medicinal Plants Board promotes conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 1 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

Mains Question

Q.Medicinal and aromatic plants play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, traditional healthcare, and rural livelihoods in India. Discuss the conservation methods adopted in India and examine the major challenges in ensuring their sustainable management.

2.The Sliding of the Indian Rupee

Why in News?

• The Indian Rupee recently depreciated to ₹92.17 per US Dollar, breaching the psychologically important ₹92 level.
• The fall is linked to rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly the Strait of Hormuz region and conflict involving Iran.
• Global crude oil prices surged nearly 10%, increasing India’s import bill.
• The rupee depreciation raises concerns about inflation, trade deficit, and the Current Account Deficit (CAD).

How Rupee Valuation Works?

• India follows a managed floating exchange rate system, where the rupee’s value is mainly determined by market demand and supply.
• Higher demand for US dollars for imports such as oil and electronics leads to rupee depreciation.
• Capital flows also influence the exchange rate; inflows of foreign investment strengthen the rupee while outflows weaken it.
• The Reserve Bank of India intervenes in the forex market by selling or buying dollars from its reserves to prevent excessive volatility.

Reasons for the Fall of the Rupee

• Rising crude oil prices: India imports nearly 80% of its crude oil requirements, so higher oil prices increase dollar demand for imports.
• Global risk aversion: Geopolitical tensions in West Asia have prompted investors to move capital toward safe-haven assets such as the US dollar and gold.
• Foreign investment outflows: Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have been selling Indian equities and repatriating funds to dollar assets.
• Remittance risks: Instability in the Gulf Cooperation Council region may disrupt remittances, which are a major source of foreign exchange for India.
• Widening Current Account Deficit: Rising imports of energy and electronics have increased India’s CAD.

Implications for the Indian Economy

• Imported inflation: Costlier crude oil and imported goods increase transportation and manufacturing costs, leading to higher retail prices.
• Higher external debt burden: Companies with External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) must pay more rupees to service dollar-denominated loans.
• Pressure on energy-intensive sectors: Aviation, logistics, and manufacturing industries face higher input costs.
• Export advantage: Export-oriented sectors such as IT services and pharmaceuticals benefit because their dollar earnings convert into higher rupee revenues.

Way Forward

• The Reserve Bank of India may intervene in the forex market using its large foreign exchange reserves to stabilize the currency.
• Monetary policy vigilance by the Monetary Policy Committee may be required if imported inflation rises.
• Diversifying energy imports and expanding renewable energy can reduce dependence on imported oil.
• Encouraging stable capital inflows through foreign investment in government bonds can support the rupee.
• Strengthening domestic manufacturing under initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive Scheme can reduce long-term trade deficits.

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding depreciation of the Indian Rupee:

1. Depreciation of the rupee makes imports more expensive.
2. A rise in crude oil prices can put downward pressure on the rupee.
3. Foreign capital inflows generally lead to depreciation of the rupee.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 only(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

Mains Question

Q.Explain the factors responsible for the depreciation of the Indian Rupee and discuss its implications for the Indian economy. Suggest measures to ensure long-term currency stability.

3.Bronze Art in India

Why in News?

• The Ashmolean Museum has decided to return a 16th-century bronze idol of Saint Tirumankai Alvar to India.
• Research showed that the idol was originally photographed in 1957 at the Soundarrajaperumal Temple in Thadikombu, Tamil Nadu, and later replaced with a replica.
• The development highlights issues of repatriation of stolen temple idols and the importance of India’s bronze sculptural heritage.

Bronze Art in India

• Bronze art refers to sculptures and ritual objects made from copper-based alloys such as bronze or brass.
• In South India, idols are often made using the panchaloha alloy (five metals).
• These sculptures are not merely decorative but function as living ritual icons used in temple worship and festivals.
• Bronze icons are widely used as processional deities, lamps, utensils, and sacred objects in temples.
• The tradition is especially strong in Tamil Nadu, where bronze icons play a central role in religious processions and devotional practices.

Technique of Bronze Casting

• The main method used in India is Lost-Wax Casting, also known as Cire Perdue or Madhuchista Vidhan.
• A detailed wax model of the sculpture is first prepared.
• The wax model is covered with layers of fine clay to create a mould.
• The mould is heated so that the wax melts and drains out, leaving an empty cavity.
• Molten metal is poured into the cavity to form the sculpture.
• After cooling, the mould is broken and the sculpture is polished and refined.
• For religious idols, a ritual ceremony such as “opening of the eyes” (netronmeelan) is performed to consecrate the icon.

Important Bronze Artefacts

• Dancing Girl of Mohenjodaro (c. 2500 BCE) is one of the earliest examples of advanced metal casting in the Indus Valley Civilization.
• The Daimabad Bronzes (c. 1500 BCE) show large ritual bronzes from the Chalcolithic period.
• The finest classical examples are the Chola Bronzes (9th–13th century CE), including the famous Nataraja of Chola Bronzes.

Evolution of Bronze Art in India

• Harappan Period: Early use of bronze for tools and sculptures such as the Dancing Girl.
• Early Historic and Classical Period: Bronze became common for portable ritual icons in Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions.
• Regional Developments: Distinct bronze traditions emerged under dynasties such as Gupta, Vakataka, and Pala-Sena, each with unique stylistic features.
• Chola Period: Bronze casting reached its artistic peak in Tamil Nadu, where icons were created for temple rituals and public processions.
• Living Tradition: Centres such as Swamimalai continue the hereditary craft tradition using ancient Shilpa Shastra techniques.

Way Forward

• Strengthening documentation and digital archives of temple idols to prevent theft and facilitate repatriation.
• Supporting traditional artisan communities such as sthapathis through training, GI recognition, and cultural tourism.
• Promoting awareness of India’s sculptural heritage through museums and international cultural diplomacy.
• Enhancing international cooperation to recover stolen antiquities and preserve cultural heritage.

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding bronze sculpture in India:

1. The lost-wax casting technique is widely used in making bronze sculptures in India.
2. Chola bronzes are associated with temple worship and processional deities.
3. The Dancing Girl of Mohenjodaro belongs to the Gupta period.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 1 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

Mains Question

Q.Bronze sculpture represents one of the most significant traditions of Indian art and religious culture. Discuss the evolution of bronze art in India with special reference to the Chola bronzes and the lost-wax casting technique.

4.Moonshot Project

Why in News?

• The Indian Institute of Science has launched a Moonshot Project on brain co-processors.
• The project is being carried out in partnership with the Pratiksha Trust.
• The initiative aims to develop advanced neurotechnology devices that can help restore lost cognitive and motor functions in patients suffering from neurological disorders such as stroke.

About the Moonshot Project

• The Moonshot Project is a cutting-edge research initiative to develop brain co-processors.
• These devices interface with the human brain to decode neural signals, process them using artificial intelligence, and stimulate the brain to restore lost functions.
• It combines fields such as neuroscience, artificial intelligence, neuromorphic computing, and bioelectronics.
• The system aims to create closed-loop brain–machine interfaces, enabling continuous interaction between the brain and computing devices.

Key Features

• Neuromorphic computing: Hardware designed to mimic brain-like neural networks for efficient signal processing.
• AI-driven neural decoding: Artificial intelligence algorithms interpret brain signals and translate them into actions or responses.
• Closed-loop brain interface: The system both reads brain signals and sends feedback through neural stimulation or neurofeedback.
• Implantable and non-invasive devices: Development of both external wearable devices and minimally invasive implants.
• Stroke rehabilitation: Designed to help stroke survivors regain sensorimotor abilities such as reaching and grasping.
• Creation of neural datasets: Development of India-specific brain signal datasets using technologies such as stereo EEG and ECoG.
• Open digital tools: AI tools, datasets, and visualization platforms will be released as open digital public goods.

Development Phases

• Phase 1: Development of a non-invasive neural co-processor that provides sensorimotor feedback to patients.
• Phase 2: Development of a minimally invasive implantable device aimed at restoring coordination and movement in chronic stroke patients.

Significance

• Positions India at the frontier of brain–machine interface and neurotechnology research.
• Could significantly improve stroke rehabilitation and treatment of neurological disorders.
• Encourages collaboration between AI research, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering.
• Supports development of affordable indigenous medical technologies for India and other developing countries.

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the Moonshot Project:

1. It aims to develop brain co-processors that interact with the human brain using artificial intelligence.
2. The project is led by the Indian Institute of Science.
3. The technology focuses on restoring motor and cognitive functions in neurological disorders such as stroke.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1, 2 and 3(d) 1 only

Answer: (c)

Mains Question

Q.Brain–machine interfaces and neurotechnology are emerging as transformative tools in healthcare. Discuss the significance of initiatives such as the Moonshot Project for neurological treatment and technological advancement in India.

5.Project HANUMAN

Why in News?

• The Government of Andhra Pradesh launched Project HANUMAN on World Wildlife Day (3 March 2026).
• The initiative aims to address the rising human–wildlife conflict in forest-adjacent regions of the state.
• It focuses on improving wildlife rescue systems, monitoring animal movement, and ensuring safer coexistence between people and wildlife.

About Project HANUMAN

• HANUMAN stands for Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife.
• It is a state-level wildlife protection and conflict mitigation programme.
• The project aims to rescue, treat, rehabilitate, and monitor wildlife while safeguarding communities living near forest areas.
• It integrates technology, rapid response infrastructure, and community participation to manage wildlife-related emergencies.

Key Features

• Rapid response infrastructure: Deployment of 100 vehicles, including 93 rapid response units and 7 wildlife ambulances for rescue and emergency response.
• Wildlife rescue centres: Establishment of four rescue and treatment centres in Visakhapatnam, Rajamahendravaram, Tirupati, and Birlut.
• Village-level volunteer teams: Creation of ‘Vajra’ (Wildlife Rakshak) teams to handle snake rescues and minor wildlife incidents in villages.
• AI-based monitoring: Use of Artificial Intelligence systems to track wildlife movement and issue early warnings when animals approach human settlements.
• HANUMAN Digital App: A mobile platform for wildlife monitoring, reporting conflict incidents, and coordinating rescue operations.
• Compensation support: Increased compensation for wildlife attacks, including ₹10 lakh for death and ₹2 lakh for injuries, along with livestock compensation based on market value.
• Use of Kumki elephants: Deployment of trained elephants to manage and drive away wild elephant herds in conflict-prone districts.
• Inter-departmental coordination: Collaboration among forest, police, agriculture, revenue, horticulture, and Panchayati Raj departments.

Significance

• Human safety: Helps protect people living in forest-fringe villages from wildlife attacks.
• Wildlife conservation: Enables timely rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured or displaced animals.
• Technology integration: Promotes the use of AI and digital platforms for wildlife monitoring and conflict prevention.
• Community participation: Engages local volunteers and village-level teams in wildlife management.

Way Forward

• Strengthening early warning systems and wildlife monitoring technologies across forest landscapes.
• Expanding community-based conservation and training local volunteers in wildlife rescue techniques.
• Improving habitat management and wildlife corridors to reduce encounters between humans and wild animals.
• Replicating similar conflict mitigation models in other states facing severe human–wildlife conflict.

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Project HANUMAN:

1. It is a wildlife conflict mitigation initiative launched by the Government of Andhra Pradesh.
2. The project uses Artificial Intelligence to monitor wildlife movement near human settlements.
3. The project includes the deployment of trained Kumki elephants for managing wild elephant herds.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1, 2 and 3(d) 1 only

Answer: (c)

Mains Question

Q.Human–wildlife conflict is emerging as a major challenge in biodiversity conservation in India. Discuss the causes of such conflicts and examine the significance of initiatives such as Project HANUMAN in mitigating them.