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- Why in News?
- The Critical and Emerging Technologies Index has been introduced to evaluate the performance of 25 nations across five key tech sectors: artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, semiconductors, space, and quantum technologies.
- Key Provisions:-
- Developed by the Harvard Kennedy School, the index uses six core criteria to assess each sector: geopolitical importance, systemic influence, economic (GDP) impact, dual-use potential (civilian and military applications), vulnerability in supply chains, and estimated time to technological maturity.
- Key Insights:
- The index reveals that India significantly trails the global leaders — the United States, China, and the European Union — in most of the assessed technology domains.
- Particularly concerning is India’s position in semiconductor technology, where it shows a marked gap compared to the frontrunners.
- This index provides a strategic overview of where countries stand in the global tech race, highlighting areas where focused investment and policy intervention are needed for India to catch up.
- Why in News?
- The Madhya Pradesh High Court has refused permission to conduct religious or cultural events at the tomb of Hazrat Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus, located in Gwalior.
- Key Provisions:-
- This heritage site also houses the grave of the legendary musician Tansen, whose original name was Ramtanu. Born in Gwalior, Tansen played a pivotal role in shaping Hindustani classical music. He received the title "Tansen" from Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior and trained under the renowned music guru Swami Haridas. Tansen’s musical legacy includes devotional compositions dedicated to Hindu deities, as well as pieces created for royal patrons like Ramchandra Vaghela and Emperor Akbar. He was one of the Navaratnas, or nine jewels, in Akbar’s court and is credited with creating ragas such as Miyan ki Malhar, Miyan ki Todi, and Darbari. His musical lineage continues through his descendants and disciples, known as the Seniyas, who have preserved his contributions to Indian classical music.
- Why in News?
- The Union Agriculture Minister has recently approved procurement of moong and urad in Madhya Pradesh and urad in Uttar Pradesh under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). This step aims to safeguard farmers' interests amid falling market prices for pulses.
- Key Provisions:-
- The Price Support Scheme is a key component of the government’s broader PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan), launched in 2018 to ensure fair returns to farmers. Under PSS, the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation facilitates the procurement of oilseeds, pulses, and cotton at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) announced by the government.
- Procurement is primarily carried out by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), with support from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in designated regions. When market prices dip below MSP, the government intervenes by purchasing directly from farmers, ensuring price stability and protecting them from potential losses. The Central Government bears the cost of procurement and any resulting losses.