India Targets ₹20,000 Crore in Organic Product Exports by 2028

Current Developments:

• Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has announced India’s ambition to increase organic product exports from the current ₹5,000–6,000 crore to ₹20,000 crore over the next three years.
• This announcement coincided with the release of the eighth edition of the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), introducing new regulations to enhance clarity, transparency, and alignment with global standards in organic product certification.
• The updated NPOP features farmer-friendly regulations, streamlined certification processes, and a revamped traceability system, aiming to bolster India’s organic export sector with a target of reaching USD 2 billion in organic food exports by 2030.

Historical Context:

• Established in May 2001, the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) has undergone several revisions, with the last significant update in 2014.
• India boasts one of the largest populations of farmers engaged in organic farming, reflecting a longstanding commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

Economic Perspective:

• The global market for organic products is currently valued at approximately ₹1 trillion, with projections to expand up to ₹10 trillion in the coming years, presenting a substantial opportunity for India to enhance its share in the international organic market.
• The government's focus on organic exports is expected to generate employment, increase farmers’ income, and contribute to the overall growth of the agricultural sector.

Government Initiatives:

• The launch of TraceNet 2.0, an upgraded traceability platform under NPOP, aims to facilitate seamless operations and provide enhanced tools for regulatory oversight, ensuring the integrity of organic products throughout the supply chain.
• A dedicated NPOP portal has been introduced to improve visibility and ease of operations for stakeholders in the organic sector, alongside redesigned portals for APEDA and Agri Exchange to support agricultural trade.

Additional Information:

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Established in 1986 through the APEDA Act passed by Parliament in December 1985, it replaced the former Processed Food Export Promotion Council (PFEPC).

Key Functions of APEDA:

• Promotion of Export: APEDA is responsible for promoting the export of agricultural and processed food products from India.
• Development of Industries: It aids in the development of industries related to the scheduled products for export by providing financial assistance, conducting surveys and feasibility studies, participating in enquiry capital through joint ventures, and other reliefs and subsidy schemes.
• Setting Standards and Specifications: The authority sets standards and specifications for the scheduled products to ensure quality in the international market.
• Registration of Exporters: APEDA is responsible for the registration of persons as exporters of the scheduled products on payment of prescribed fees.
• Training and Development: It provides training in various aspects of the industries connected with the scheduled products.
• Market Intelligence: APEDA collects and disseminates market intelligence in India and abroad.

Scheduled Products under APEDA:

APEDA is mandated with the responsibility of export promotion and development of the following scheduled products:

• Fruits, Vegetables, and their Products
• Meat and Meat Products
• Poultry and Poultry Products
• Dairy Products
• Confectionery, Biscuits, and Bakery Products
• Honey, Jaggery, and Sugar Products
• Cocoa and its Products, Chocolates of all kinds
• Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
• Cereal and Cereal Products
• Groundnuts, Peanuts, and Walnuts
• Pickles, Papads, and Chutneys
• Guar Gum
• Floriculture and Floriculture Products
• Herbal and Medicinal Plants

In addition to these products, APEDA has been entrusted with the responsibility to monitor the import of sugar.

Organizational Structure:

APEDA is headquartered in New Delhi, India. The current Chairman is Abhishek Dev, IAS, and the General Manager is V. K. Vidyarthi.

Industry Urges Extension of RoDTEP Scheme for SEZs and EOUs

Current Developments:

• The Export Promotion Council for EOUs and SEZs (EPCES) has requested the government to extend the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme for Export-Oriented Units (EOUs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) until September 30, 2025.
• As of now, the RoDTEP scheme for exports from the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) is valid until September 30, 2025. However, for SEZs, EOUs, and Advance Authorisation (AA) holders, the scheme expired on December 31, 2024.
• The EPCES argues that excluding SEZs and EOUs from the scheme disadvantages these exporters, who contribute approximately 15% of India’s total merchandise exports.

Background:

• The RoDTEP scheme was introduced in 2021 to refund embedded non-creditable central, state, and local levies paid on inputs to exporters, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Indian exports.
• Initially, SEZs and EOUs were excluded from the scheme. In March 2024, the government extended RoDTEP benefits to these sectors to support exporters facing global economic challenges.
• The scheme's benefits for SEZs, EOUs, and AA holders were available from March 11, 2024, to December 31, 2024.

Economic Perspective:

• SEZs and EOUs play a significant role in India’s export landscape, collectively accounting for about 15% of the country’s merchandise exports.
• The Union Budget 2024-25 allocated ₹16,575 crore to the RoDTEP scheme, reflecting the government’s commitment to boosting exports.

Government Initiatives:

• The government’s decision to extend RoDTEP benefits to SEZs and EOUs in March 2024 was aimed at mitigating international headwinds and enhancing the competitiveness of Indian exports.
• The current request from EPCES seeks parity for all exporters by extending the scheme’s benefits uniformly across sectors.

Additional Information:

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are designated areas with special economic regulations that differ from the rest of the country, aimed at attracting foreign investment and boosting exports.
• Export-Oriented Units (EOUs) are units established with the objective of exporting their entire production of goods and services, earning foreign exchange for the country.
• The Advance Authorisation (AA) scheme allows duty-free import of inputs for export production, enhancing the cost competitiveness of Indian exporters.

UGC’s Draft Regulations on Vice-Chancellor Appointments Stir Federalism Debate

Current Developments:

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released the Draft UGC Regulations 2025, proposing changes to the appointment process of Vice-Chancellors (VCs) in universities.
• The draft suggests that the Chancellor (often the Governor) will appoint the Chairperson of the Search Committee for selecting VCs. The committee will include nominees from the Chancellor, UGC, and the university’s executive body.
• Several state governments and political leaders have expressed concerns, viewing these proposals as an infringement on state autonomy and an overreach by the central government.

Historical Context:

• Traditionally, the appointment of VCs has involved significant input from state governments, especially in state universities. The proposed regulations are perceived to shift this balance, granting more authority to central appointees like the Governor.
• Previous UGC regulations, such as those from 2010 and 2018, also outlined roles for Chancellors in VC appointments, but the current draft is seen as further centralizing the process.

Political and Social Perspectives:

• Leaders from various states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab, have criticized the draft regulations, arguing that they undermine the federal structure of governance and encroach upon the rights of states to manage their educational institutions.
• The Left parties have demanded the withdrawal of the draft, emphasizing the need to preserve the autonomy of state universities and prevent centralization of power.

Economic and Administrative Implications:

• Proponents of the draft regulations argue that a standardized and transparent process for VC appointments could enhance the quality of higher education and ensure merit-based selections.
• Critics fear that the changes could lead to bureaucratic delays and politicization of appointments, potentially affecting the administrative efficiency and academic autonomy of universities.

Additional Information:

University Grants Commission (UGC)

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, established by an Act of Parliament in 1956.

Key Functions of UGC:

• Promotion and Coordination: UGC promotes and coordinates university education across India.
• Standards Maintenance: It determines and maintains standards of teaching, examination, and research in universities.
• Funding Allocation: UGC allocates funds to higher educational institutions (HEIs) to support their development and maintenance.
• Regulation and Administration: It regulates the administration of HEIs and oversees the admission of students to these institutions.

Types of Universities Regulated by UGC:

• Central Universities: Established by an Act of Parliament and under the purview of the Department of Higher Education.

• State Universities: Run by state governments and usually established by a local legislative assembly act.

• Deemed to be Universities: Autonomous institutions granted this status by the Department of Higher Education on UGC’s advice.

• State Private Universities: Approved by UGC and established by an Act of a State Legislative Assembly.

• The role of the Chancellor in most state universities is typically held by the Governor of the respective state, who acts as the ceremonial head of the university.

• The Search Committee is a panel constituted to recommend suitable candidates for the position of Vice-Chancellor, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.

Innovative Copper-Based Nano Catalyst Promises Greener Industrial Processes

Current Developments:

• Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have developed a novel copper-based nano catalyst with a star-like structure.
• This catalyst is synthesized through the controlled growth of copper oxide nanostructures on a sporopollenin template, resulting in a “morning star” configuration.
• The catalyst demonstrates high efficiency in water without the need for additives, outperforming conventional catalysts that often require high temperatures, additives, or harsh solvents.
• It is reusable across five cycles, enhancing its practicality for industrial applications.

Scientific and Environmental Perspectives:

• Sporopollenin, a natural polymer found in the outer shell of spores and pollen, serves as a scaffold for the growth of copper oxide rods, forming the nanostar shape.
• The surface of sporopollenin is functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI), providing amine groups crucial for the nucleation and growth of the copper oxide nanostructures.
• This eco-friendly synthesis aligns with sustainable development goals, directly addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional catalytic processes.

Industrial and Economic Implications:

• The catalyst holds potential for various applications, including organic reactions, environmental remediation, nanoscale electronics, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS).
• By utilizing spores—an abundant biomass waste—as a foundation for high-value catalysts, this innovation exemplifies the transformation of waste into wealth, addressing a critical need for sustainable industrial processes.

Mumbai’s Ira Jadhav Sets New Record in Women’s U19 One Day Trophy

• Ira Jadhav, a 14-year-old cricketer from Mumbai, achieved an unbeaten 346 runs off 157 balls in the Women’s Under-19 One Day Trophy against Meghalaya.
• Her remarkable innings included 42 fours and 16 sixes, propelling Mumbai to a formidable total of 563 for 3 in 50 overs.
• This performance surpasses the previous record held by Smriti Mandhana, who scored 224 runs in 2013.
• Jadhav’s achievement marks her as the first Indian (male or female) to score a triple century in any BCCI-organised limited-overs tournament.
• Her innings featured significant partnerships, including a 274-run stand with captain Hurley Gala, who contributed 116 runs, and a 186-run partnership with Diksha Pawar.
• Mumbai’s total of 563 for 3 is the highest team score in the history of the Women’s U19 One Day Trophy.
• The match concluded with Mumbai securing a 544-run victory over Meghalaya, who were bowled out for 19 runs.
• Jadhav’s performance has garnered praise from former India women’s team captain Diana Edulji, who expressed hope to see her in India colors.

India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Achieves 15.84% Year-on-Year Growth

Current Developments:

• As of December 2024, India’s total renewable energy (RE) installed capacity has reached 209.44 GW, marking a 15.84% increase from 180.80 GW in December 2023.
• In 2024, the country added 28.64 GW of RE capacity, a significant 119.46% increase compared to the 13.05 GW added in 2023.
• Solar power led this growth with an addition of 24.54 GW, a 33.47% rise from 73.32 GW in 2023 to 97.86 GW in 2024.
• Wind energy also expanded, adding 3.42 GW to reach a total of 48.16 GW, a 7.64% increase from 2023.
• Bioenergy capacity grew by 4.70%, from 10.84 GW in December 2023 to 11.35 GW in December 2024.
• Small hydro power projects saw a 2.20% increase, with capacity rising from 4.99 GW in 2023 to 5.10 GW in 2024.

Historical Context:

• India has been progressively enhancing its renewable energy capacity to meet its climate commitments and energy security goals.
• The country aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, as part of its ‘Panchamrit’ goals announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India Energy Week 2025: Catalyzing Global Energy Dialogue

Current Developments:

• India Energy Week 2025 (IEW’25) is scheduled from February 11 to 14, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi.
• Organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and facilitated by the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI), IEW’25 aims to surpass previous editions with record-breaking participation.
• The event will feature nearly 100 strategic sessions and technical conferences, fostering collaboration across the global energy landscape.
• Special emphasis is placed on engaging students and educational institutions through workshops and masterclasses conducted by international experts, offered free of cost.

Historical Context:

• IEW has rapidly evolved into one of the most comprehensive energy events globally, organized by a major energy-consuming nation.
• The inaugural edition, IEW 2023, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting India’s commitment to energy transition and security.

Economic and Environmental Perspectives:

• IEW’25 serves as a platform for discussing sustainable energy solutions, aligning with global efforts to address climate change and promote renewable energy adoption.
• The event facilitates dialogue on energy security, technological advancements, and investment opportunities, contributing to economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Additional Information:

Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI)

The Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) serves as the apex society representing entities in India’s hydrocarbon sector. It acts as an industry interface with the government and regulatory authorities, facilitating the development of a globally competitive oil and gas industry in India.

Key Objectives of FIPI:

• Industry Representation: FIPI represents the oil and gas industry on various government bodies, committees, and task forces, voicing industry concerns and contributing to policy evolution.
• Policy Advocacy: The organization supports the government in resolving issues and developing policies and regulations that impact the hydrocarbon sector.
• Stakeholder Engagement: FIPI serves as a facilitator of continuous dialogue among stakeholders in the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors, including global suppliers, technology providers, service providers, academic entities, and relevant agencies.

Membership and Structure:

• FIPI comprises 95 members, including companies from the entire hydrocarbon sector in India, service and technology providers, academic institutes, and consultancy organizations.
• The organization is governed by a council that includes representatives from various segments of the oil and gas industry.