The Digital India Act intends to update the IT Act of 2000 in regard to data protection, cybersecurity, and reducing online harm.
Accountability for online platforms, stricter regulations on AI-based misinformation, and the emergence of the digital economy of India will reach $1 trillion by 2030.
Consultations with the public are underway to address the stakeholder concerns and ensure that it is an inclusive way of governance.
India Achieves Record Wheat Procurement
The government bought 50 million tonnes of wheat in 2024, and the National Food Security Act (NFSA) ensured strong food security.
The rise in procurement was seen despite climatic adversities such as unusual rains that damaged crops.
Programs like PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and decentralized procurement led to proper distribution.
India continues to be the world’s second-largest producer of wheat and provides a huge percentage of global food grain stocks.
WHO Highlights Rising Health Impacts of Climate Change
According to WHO’s report, climate-induced diseases have increased by 15%, which include vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.
South Asia remains vulnerable due to extreme events and a relatively weak health-care system.
The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in India includes the National Mission on Health for dealing with links between climate and health.
These recommendations are that early-warning systems be strengthened and climate resilience be integrated into health policy.
India Launches ‘Mission Clean Ganga 2.0’
The new Namami Gange focuses on the rejuvenation of tributaries and on issues of microplastics and industrial wastes.
The project is a comprehensive amalgamation of the latest monitoring technologies that ensure real-time water quality data.
4,000 km of sewer lines were constructed and there was a 40% reduction in untreated wastewater flowing into the Ganga.
There is the emphasis on community participation and the development of eco-tourism along the river.
Global Efforts to Combat Child Labour Intensify
The ILO estimated that 9% more children were in child labor since 2020, and the number was over 160 million.
Asia accounts for the largest share, driven by poverty, conflict, and lack of access to education.
India’s measures include the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act and the Right to Education Act to reduce dropout rates.
Challenges remain in enforcing laws and rehabilitating affected children through skill-building initiatives.
India and Japan Deepen Defense Ties
The two countries reached agreements on maritime security as well as defense technology involving joint exercises and capacity-building.
India wants to take benefits from Japan’s cyber defense system and submarine technology.
Through this partnership, India and Japan try to achieve the objectives laid down by the Quad.
Defense trade, including foreign investments in Indian startups by the Japanese, is strengthening bilateral cooperation.
India Approves Green Credit Programme
The Green Credit Programme promotes activities such as afforestation, renewable energy, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
Earning credits will be redeemable in India’s new carbon market, making the financial case for green activity more viable.
It is also aligned with India’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2070.
Frameworks for monitoring and verification will ensure that the transactions in green credit are transparent and accountable.
Key Concepts and Policies
Digital India Act: A contemporary policy for IT governance focusing on accountability and data protection.
National Food Security Act (NFSA): Provides two-thirds of India’s population with subsidized food grains.
Namami Gange Programme: An integrated initiative to clean up and rejuvenate the Ganga and its tributaries.
Child Labour Act: Legislation that prohibits child labor in hazardous industries and child protection.
Green Credit Programme – Market-based mechanism for green, environmentally friendly practices.
