1. National Mission on Natural Farming
What is NMNF?
- The NMNF is an improved version of the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) scheme, which was part of the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY).
- It is now a standalone scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- Natural farming involves using inputs produced on farms, such as Jeevamrit (liquid bio-fertilizer) and Beejamrit (seed treatment mixture), rather than chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Key Features of NMNF:
How NMNF Differs from Previous Schemes:
- Higher Scale: It builds on BPKP by adding significant funding and a larger scope of outreach.
- Targeted Approach: Focuses specifically on reducing fertilizer use in high-consumption districts and enhancing sustainability.
Comprehensive Mission: Encompasses training, mobilization, and infrastructure to implement natural farming effectively.
2. Socialist and Secular in the Preamble - Supreme Court Judgment
Key Points:
- Supreme Court Ruling (November 28, 2024):
- The Supreme Court upheld the insertion of the words ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
- This decision follows a series of changes made to the Constitution during the Emergency (1975-77) and Anti-Defection (1985) amendments.
- Original Preamble (1949):
- Initially, the Preamble began with “WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA…” and defined India as a Sovereign Democratic Republic.
- The terms socialist and secular were absent from the original text.
- Meaning of the Word ‘Preamble’:
- Derived from Latin ‘praeambulum’ meaning “going before.”
Represents an introductory statement outlining the guiding principles and objectives of the Constitution.
- Challenge to the Preamble:
- In July 2020, a Supreme Court advocate, Dr. Balaram Singh, filed a petition questioning the insertion of the words ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’.
- Arguments were made that ‘secular’ should mean “freedom of religion” and the word ‘socialist’ should imply economic equality.
- Judicial Reasoning:
- The Supreme Court ruled that the inclusion of ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ was justified, considering they were part of the fundamental values of the Indian nation.
The Court also reaffirmed that the Preamble reflects the ideals and philosophy of the Constitution, and these values guide the functioning of the government.
3. India’s Stance on Plastic Alternatives at Global Plastic Treaty Talks
Context:
- India participated in UN-led Global Plastic Treaty negotiations in Busan, South Korea.
- The focus was on reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable alternatives.
Key Points:
- India’s Current Position:
- Against Single-Use Plastics (SUPs): India banned SUPs in 2022 and advocates research, innovation, and development of sustainable alternatives.
- Contradictory Stand:
- India does not support being “pushed into using certain products or materials” during negotiations.
Disagreed with suggestions to reduce primary plastic polymers and replace them with plastic substitutes.
- Negotiation Details:
- India emphasizes national priorities:
- Final agreements must not infringe on India’s autonomy in policymaking.
- Policies must respect “common but differentiated responsibilities” between developed and developing nations.
- Developed countries should pay more for future emissions mitigation.
- Concerns Raised:
- Lack of clarity on the true sustainability of alternatives like:
- Biodegradable plastics.
- Compostable plastics.
- Lack of clarity on the true sustainability of alternatives like:
Alternatives need rigorous testing to assess real environmental benefits.
4. Other headlines of the day
