What is HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the human immune system, specifically CD4 T lymphocytes. These cells play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases. Over time, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells, weakening immunity and increasing vulnerability to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Transmission HIV spreads through the exchange of infected bodily fluids such as: Common modes include unprotected sexual contact, contaminated needles, blood transfusion with infected blood, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Disease Progression Acute Infection Clinical Latency Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Management and Treatment There is currently no complete cure for HIV. However, it can be effectively managed using Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are essential for long-term survival and quality of life. CCR5-delta 32 Mutation CCR5 is a co-receptor on CD4 cells used by HIV to enter the cell. The CCR5-delta 32 mutation prevents the formation of functional CCR5 receptors, thereby blocking the virus from entering CD4 cells. This mutation has been used in rare cases of HIV remission through stem cell transplantation. Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant Bone marrow transplantation, also known as hematopoietic stem cell transplant, replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Types: In rare cases, transplants from donors carrying the CCR5-delta 32 mutation have resulted in long-term remission of HIV. However, this procedure is high-risk and used primarily for treating blood cancers, not as a routine HIV therapy. Public Health Significance HIV management represents a significant intersection of virology, immunology, biotechnology, and public health policy.

Background The Vedaranyam Salt Satyagraha was a major civil disobedience movement in the Madras Presidency during the Indian National Movement. It was part of the larger Salt Satyagraha launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 against the British salt monopoly. While Gandhi led the Dandi March in Gujarat, the Vedaranyam march represented the southern counterpart of the nationwide movement. Leadership Course of the Movement Rajagopalachari symbolically broke the salt law by collecting and producing salt, similar to Gandhi’s act at Dandi. Objectives Significance Regional Expansion of Civil Disobedience Mass Participation Political Impact Symbol of Non-Violent Resistance Aftermath Conclusion The Vedaranyam Salt Satyagraha marked a crucial moment in South India’s participation in the national freedom struggle. By replicating the spirit of the Dandi March in Tamil Nadu, it strengthened the nationwide movement against colonial rule and affirmed the power of non-violent civil resistance.

Overview Article 3 empowers Parliament to reorganise the internal political boundaries of India. It provides the constitutional mechanism for the formation of new States and alteration of existing State boundaries. It reflects the flexible nature of Indian federalism, where territorial reorganisation can be carried out through parliamentary legislation rather than a constitutional amendment under Article 368. Scope of Article 3 Parliament may by law: This power extends to both States and Union Territories. Procedure under Article 3 Step 1: Introduction of Bill Step 2: Reference to State Legislature Step 3: Nature of State’s Opinion Step 4: Parliamentary Approval Relation with Article 4 Article 4 states that laws made under Article 3 may include: Such changes are not treated as constitutional amendments under Article 368. Constitutional Significance Important Examples Judicial Interpretation The Supreme Court has held that Parliament’s power under Article 3 is plenary, subject only to procedural requirements. The consent of the concerned State is not mandatory. Conclusion Article 3 provides Parliament with extensive authority to reshape India’s internal boundaries. While it preserves flexibility and administrative efficiency, it also underscores the strong Centre characteristic of Indian federalism.

Overview The International Energy Agency (IEA) is an intergovernmental organisation that works to ensure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for its member countries. It plays a central role in global energy security, energy data analysis and clean energy transition policy guidance. Establishment Membership India became an Association country of the IEA in 2017, strengthening energy cooperation. Objectives Core Functions Energy Security Data and Analysis Clean Energy Transition Policy Advisory Key Reports These reports influence global energy investment decisions and climate policy discussions. Significance Relevance for India Conclusion The International Energy Agency plays a pivotal role in global energy governance, balancing energy security with sustainability. Its expanding engagement with emerging economies like India reflects the evolving global energy landscape.

Overview The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an intergovernmental organisation that promotes policies to improve economic and social well-being worldwide. It serves as a forum where governments share experiences, develop standards, and coordinate policies on economic, social and governance issues. Establishment Membership India is not a member but actively engages with OECD as a key partner country. Objectives Core Areas of Work Economic Policy Taxation Education Governance Development Structure Council Secretariat Committees Significance Relevance for India Conclusion The OECD functions as a global policy laboratory that sets standards in economic governance, taxation, education and development. Though primarily composed of developed economies, its policy influence extends worldwide.

Overview The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at creating a comprehensive ecosystem for the production, utilisation and export of green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. It is considered a key pillar in achieving deep decarbonisation and long-term energy security. The Mission seeks to reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports and position India as a global leader in green hydrogen technologies. Approval and Budget Objectives Key Components Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Green Hydrogen Hubs Pilot Projects Research and Development Targets by 2030 Implementation Phases Phase I 2022–23 to 2025–26 Phase II 2026–27 to 2029–30 Current and Projected Demand Benefits and Goals Decarbonisation Reduced Import Dependence Indigenous Manufacturing Employment Generation Export Potential Challenges Incentive Adequacy Global Competition High Production Cost Infrastructure Gaps Funding Constraints Conclusion The National Green Hydrogen Mission represents a strategic shift towards clean energy-led industrial transformation. Its success depends on technological innovation, competitive incentives, infrastructure development and strong coordination between industry and government.

Overview Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) is an umbrella coalition of farmers’ unions formed to coordinate and lead the nationwide farmers’ protests against the three farm laws enacted in 2020. It emerged as a central platform uniting diverse agrarian organisations across multiple states. Formation Context of Emergence The SKM was formed in response to the following legislations: Farmers argued that the laws would weaken the Minimum Support Price system, undermine APMC mandis and increase corporate control over agriculture. Major Activities Key Demands Outcome Significance Conclusion Samyukt Kisan Morcha represents a coordinated farmers’ collective that played a decisive role in shaping agricultural policy debates in India. Its mobilisation underscored the importance of stakeholder consultation in major economic reforms affecting the agrarian sector.