The Lok Sabha has passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025. This landmark legislation aims to incentivize private sector participation, both domestic and foreign, in nuclear power production. It repeals existing restrictive legislation to open up the civil nuclear sector. Key provisions include enabling private companies to run nuclear plants, limiting operator liability to plant capacity, and ensuring the government retains control over nuclear waste management. The Bill also removes clauses holding equipment suppliers responsible for failures, a move that has faced significant opposition from several political parties.
- The SHANTI Bill allows private and foreign companies to participate in India's civil nuclear energy production.
- It shifts the responsibility of managing nuclear plants to the 'operator' of the facility.
- Operator liability is now limited to the specific capacity of the nuclear plants rather than unlimited.
The Indian government has introduced the SHANTI Bill to overhaul civil nuclear facilities' operation and construction. Aiming for 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, the Bill allows domestic private capital to participate in nuclear energy activities, previously restricted to government entities. While it aims to reduce transaction costs and clarify legal ambiguities for new entrants, concerns remain regarding the liability framework and the independence of the regulator. The Bill keeps sensitive fuel cycles under state control but opens up plant delivery and supply chains to private players to mobilize large-scale capital.
- The government targets 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, including five indigenous small modular reactors by 2033.
- The SHANTI Bill allows domestic private capital to build and operate civil nuclear facilities through licenses.
- Sensitive fuel cycles will remain under state control to prevent nuclear proliferation.
The Indian Navy is set to commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), at INS Hansa in Goa on December 17. This multi-role platform is equipped with advanced sensors and weapons, designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue operations. The induction of these 'Seahawk' helicopters is a major milestone in the Navy's modernization drive, significantly enhancing its operational reach and maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to counter potential threats and ensure regional security.
- INAS 335 (Ospreys) is the second squadron of MH-60R helicopters to be commissioned by the Indian Navy.
- The MH-60R Seahawk is a versatile multi-role platform capable of both conventional and asymmetric warfare.
- The squadron will be based at INS Hansa in Goa, strengthening India's blue-water naval capabilities.
Australia has become the first country to implement a comprehensive social media ban for users under the age of 16 through the Online Safety Amendment Bill 2024. The law mandates that platforms like Meta, TikTok, and X must take 'reasonable steps' to prevent underage access or face fines up to A$49.5 million. The government’s rationale centers on protecting minors from cyberbullying, harmful content, and predatory practices. While the ban has sparked debates over privacy and the efficacy of age-verification technology, internal documents from tech firms revealed they were aware of the addictive nature and negative mental health impacts of their platforms on teenagers.
- The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 sets 16 as the minimum age for social media accounts.
- Platforms face massive fines (up to $33 million USD) for non-compliance with age-gating requirements.
- The ban does not allow for parental consent to bypass the age limit, reflecting a 'blanket ban' approach.
Researchers published a study in Current Biology identifying the specific cellular traits that allow mangroves to survive in saltwater, unlike most terrestrial plants. By analyzing 34 mangrove species, scientists found that these plants possess unusually small leaf epidermal pavement cells and thicker cell walls, providing the mechanical strength needed to tolerate low osmotic potentials. Unlike their inland relatives, mangroves do not reduce their stomata size, allowing them to maintain high photosynthetic rates. These adaptations are crucial as rising sea levels threaten coastal regions. Mangroves also provide vital ecosystem services, including erosion protection and habitats for diverse wildlife.
- Mangroves have evolved 30 times over the last 200 million years to adapt to saline environments.
- Key adaptations include small epidermal cells and thick cell walls to handle osmotic pressure.
- Some species use waxy root layers to filter salt, while others excrete salt through specialized leaf tissues.
As India prepares for its maiden human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, the process of 'human-rating' the LVM-3 launch vehicle has become a central focus. Human-rating involves rigorous engineering and testing to ensure a 0.2% or lower chance of a catastrophic event. This includes adding redundant systems, a robust crew escape system, and reliable environmental controls. While human-rating increases complexity and costs, it is essential for astronaut safety. ISRO's LVM-3, now designated HLVM-3, is undergoing these upgrades to safely carry Indian astronauts into orbit, marking a significant milestone for the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The mission aims for high reliability.
- Human-rating requires a much higher safety margin compared to standard cargo rockets.
- The HLVM-3 includes upgraded Vikas liquid engines and S200 boosters for enhanced reliability.
- A crew escape system is designed to pull the crew module away in case of emergencies during flight.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is planning to amend the Copyright Act, 1957, to address challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence. A key proposal is a 'blanket licensing' framework, where AI firms would pay royalties to content publishers through a copyright society after commercializing their models. This aims to resolve tensions between AI developers who scrape internet data and publishers seeking compensation. However, tech industry bodies like Nasscom have expressed concerns, particularly regarding the burden of proof for copyright infringement in the age of generative AI. The proposal suggests a hybrid model for copyright jurisprudence.
- The proposed framework would allow AI developers to scrape content while ensuring eventual payment to publishers.
- A new copyright society, the 'Copyright Royalties Collective for AI Training' (CRCAT), would manage royalty distribution.
- Publishers argue they should have the right to opt out of data sharing for AI training.
The Department of Posts has proposed the DHRUVA (Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address) framework to standardize physical addresses in India. DHRUVA aims to create a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) similar to Aadhaar and UPI. It utilizes DIGIPIN, a 10-digit alphanumeric code based on geo-coordinates, to provide precise locations. This system would allow users to share a 'label' or virtual address with e-commerce and logistics providers instead of full physical details, enhancing privacy and delivery efficiency. Experts suggest a draft law is needed to authorize the data collection required for this framework.
- DHRUVA is designed as a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to provide unique virtual addresses for physical locations.
- The system uses DIGIPIN, an open-sourced 10-digit alphanumeric code that divides the country into 12-square-metre blocks.
- It aims to improve logistics for players like India Post, Amazon, and Uber while enhancing user privacy through address tokenization.
Neurotechnology, particularly Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs), uses mechanical tools to interact directly with the human brain. These devices can record or stimulate neural activity, offering hope for treating neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, strokes, and spinal cord injuries. While the U.S. and China lead with initiatives like the BRAIN Initiative and the China Brain Project, India is developing its own capabilities through institutions like IIT Kanpur and IISc. However, the field faces significant ethical hurdles regarding human enhancement and privacy, necessitating a robust regulatory framework to ensure safe and ethical development.
- Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) translate neural signals into commands for external devices like prosthetic limbs or computers.
- Neurotechnology has the potential to treat non-communicable diseases and injuries, including paralysis and depression.
- The U.S. BRAIN Initiative and the China Brain Project (2016-2030) are leading global efforts in this field.
A study by research outfit iForest suggests that official 'fire counts' used to track stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana may be misleading. While government data claims a 90% reduction in fires since 2021, 'burnt-area' measurements show only a 30% decline. The discrepancy arises because satellites like Suomi-NPP (VIIRS) and Aqua (MODIS) only pass over India at specific times, missing fires that occur in the evening. Geostationary satellites like Meteosat, which provide data every 15 minutes, indicate that many fires happen outside the detection windows of polar-orbiting satellites, leading to significant undercounting of emissions.
- Burnt-area measurements show a 30% decline in stubble burning, contrasting with the 90% reduction claimed via fire counts.
- Current satellite sensors like VIIRS and MODIS only capture active fires during specific daytime windows (10:30 AM to 1:30 PM).
- Small fires and those occurring in the evening are frequently missed by polar-orbiting satellites.
A United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report highlights that while AI investment is surging, it may exacerbate existing inequalities in the Asia-Pacific. The 'AI Preparedness Index' shows a massive gap, with advanced economies scoring over 70% while fragile states score under 20%. Disparities in digital infrastructure, such as electricity and data systems, prevent many from participating in the AI transition. Furthermore, women in the region face higher exposure to AI-driven automation than men. The report calls for inclusive design and robust foundations in hard infrastructure and human capital to ensure equitable benefits.
- The AI Preparedness Index reveals a stark divide between advanced economies and fragile states in the Asia-Pacific.
- Lack of basic infrastructure like reliable electricity and affordable internet remains a major barrier to AI adoption.
- Women are disproportionately affected by AI-driven automation compared to men in East and South-East Asia.
The article examines the government's directive to preload the 'Sanchar Saathi' app on new smartphones to combat cyberfraud. While the intent is to protect users from identity theft, critics argue that such mandates create privacy risks and expand state surveillance capabilities. The government eventually withdrew the directive following backlash. The author advocates for a shift from state-mandated tech solutions to a 'three pillars' approach: obligations on financial firms, functional reporting mechanisms, and sustained public education to improve digital literacy and empower citizens against sophisticated online scams.
- Mandatory preloading of apps like Sanchar Saathi raises concerns about privacy and state surveillance.
- The Supreme Court's 'test of proportionality' from the K.S. Puttaswamy judgment is a key legal benchmark.
- Online financial fraud cost victims over $1 trillion worldwide in 2023 according to Interpol.
The Supreme Court has ordered a CBI investigation into "digital arrest" scams, where fraudsters impersonate officials to extort money. This scam has caused losses exceeding ₹3,000 crore, primarily targeting senior citizens. The Court emphasized the need for cooperation from the RBI, using AI/ML to trace money trails, and online intermediaries under IT Rules 2021. The article highlights the transnational nature of these crimes, often operated from "scam centres" in Southeast Asia involving trafficked workers. It calls for international diplomacy and domestic improvements in digital literacy and police capabilities to tackle this evolving threat.
- The Supreme Court bypassed the usual requirement for State consent for CBI probes due to the severity and cross-border nature of digital arrest scams.
- Financial "mule" accounts are central to these scams, necessitating intervention from the RBI and the use of advanced technology like AI to trace funds.
- Many scams originate from Southeast Asian "scam centres" where trafficked individuals are forced into cyber-slavery to run fraud operations.
The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered airlines to brace for the impact of volcanic ash from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which erupted for the first time in 12,000 years. The ash plume, reaching up to 14 km, has drifted across the Red Sea towards Yemen, Oman, and India's western border. Volcanic ash is a major safety hazard for aircraft as it can melt in jet engines, creating a glassy deposit that chokes cooling holes and leads to engine failure. Airlines have been advised to steer clear of affected altitudes and inspect runways for contamination to ensure safety.
- The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted on November 23, 2025, after a 12,000-year dormancy.
- Volcanic ash contains silicate components that melt at high engine temperatures (1,600°C) and re-solidify, causing engine stalls.
- The ash plume reached Indian airspace over Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi-NCR before moving towards China.
While India has reformed its mining laws to encourage exploration of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt, it lacks large-scale processing and refining capacity. Currently, most raw ores are sent abroad, primarily to China, for refining into battery-grade materials. The article suggests five steps: establishing Centres of Excellence for innovation, unlocking secondary resources from industrial waste like fly ash, upskilling the workforce in hydrometallurgy, de-risking investments through government off-take commitments, and pursuing 'mineral diplomacy' to acquire processing technology. Processing is the 'missing link' that determines if India remains a raw material supplier or becomes a clean energy leader.
- China controls over 90% of global rare earth and graphite refining, creating a significant supply chain vulnerability for India.
- India's Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act has been amended to support domestic mining through exploration licenses.
- Secondary sources like red mud from aluminum plants and fly ash from coal plants contain valuable rare earth elements.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has retracted its directive requiring mobile manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new handsets. The initial order aimed to curb fraudulent connections and help track lost phones but faced significant backlash over privacy and 'bloatware' concerns. The government justified the reversal by citing a recent spike in voluntary downloads, with 6 lakh registrations in a single day, suggesting mandatory installation is no longer necessary. However, other directives regarding SIM security and financial fraud risk indicators for messaging platforms like WhatsApp remain in discussion under the new Telecom Cyber Security Rules.
- The Sanchar Saathi app is designed to help citizens track lost mobile phones and identify fraudulent connections.
- The DoT's initial mandate was criticized for potentially installing software without user consent, raising significant digital privacy issues.
- The government claims the app has already helped disconnect 1.5 crore fraudulent connections and trace 26 lakh lost phones.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first global guidelines on the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for treating obesity in adults. While acknowledging the effectiveness of these drugs in weight loss and metabolic health, the WHO emphasizes that they must be used alongside intensive behavioral interventions, diet, and physical activity. The guidelines highlight the need for equitable access, as these drugs are currently expensive and often unavailable in low- and middle-income countries. In India, experts suggest that insurance coverage and the development of generic versions are crucial for widespread benefit.
- GLP-1 therapies are recognized as effective tools for obesity management but are not a standalone solution.
- The WHO recommends these drugs for adults, excluding pregnant women, and stresses the importance of lifestyle changes.
- Obesity is a complex chronic disease linked to cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
The rise of AI-generated deepfakes has exacerbated Non-Consensual Intimate Image (NCII) abuse, particularly targeting women and transgender individuals. While the government has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) requiring the removal of such content within 24 hours, the article argues that legal provisions alone are insufficient. There is a lack of contemporary data from the NCRB on NCII, and existing laws like the IT Act and DPDP Act remain opaque in practice. The article calls for gender-neutral reforms, better police training, and stronger victim-centric legal mechanisms to address the deep-rooted social stigma and lack of digital literacy.
- NCII abuse involves the unauthorized distribution of intimate images, often enhanced or created by AI deepfake technology.
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued SOPs in November 2025 to curb NCII circulation and protect digital dignity.
- A major hurdle is the lack of granular classification of cybercrimes in National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued directives requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app by March 2026 to combat cybercrime and counterfeit handsets. While the government, represented by Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, claims the app is for consumer protection and can be deleted, critics argue it represents 'overkill.' The directive mandates high-level system access for the app, raising fears of state surveillance. Legal experts point out that under the K.S. Puttaswamy (2017) judgment, any state intrusion into privacy must meet the tests of legality, necessity, and proportionality, suggesting less invasive methods like web portals already exist.
- The DoT directive mandates 'SIM binding' and pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices sold from March 2026.
- The app is intended to verify device authenticity and tackle crimes like 'digital arrests' and spoofed IMEI numbers.
- Critics argue the app's deep system integration could lead to unauthorized surveillance and violates the proportionality standard established by the Supreme Court.
V. Rajaraman, a Padma Bhushan awardee and a key figure in India's IT revolution, passed away on November 8. He is credited with pioneering computer science education at IIT-Kanpur and IISc-Bengaluru. Rajaraman was instrumental in introducing the first B.Tech. and M.Tech. programs in computer science in India during the 1970s and 80s. He authored numerous textbooks, including a popular Fortran programming manual sold for just ₹15 to ensure affordability. His efforts laid the foundation for the rapid spread of programming skills that fueled India's global software services sector.
- Rajaraman led the design of an early analogue computer at IISc in the 1950s and established the first academic computer center at IIT-Kanpur.
- He lobbied for the introduction of formal B.Tech. degrees in computer science, which started with 20 seats in 1979.
- His work as head of the computer manpower committee led to the creation of the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) course.
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition warning against the indiscriminate use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in judicial work. The petition highlights that GenAI can produce 'hallucinations,' resulting in fictitious judgments and research materials. It argues that opaque AI use could trigger constitutional and human rights concerns, potentially replicating or aggravating existing biases and discriminatory practices. The petitioner seeks strict guidelines or a policy for the regulated and transparent use of GenAI in courts and tribunals until a formal law is enacted to ensure stakeholder liability.
- GenAI 'hallucinations' can lead to the citation of non-existent precedents and fake case laws in court proceedings.
- The petition urges the judiciary to use only bias-free data with transparent ownership to protect human rights.
- There is a risk of AI algorithms replicating and aggravating pre-existing social, legal, and stereotypical biases.
Scientists have identified 'altermagnetism' as a new class of magnetic order, joining the well-known categories of ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism. Formulated around 2019 and experimentally supported in 2024, altermagnetism features a crystal structure where rotating or mirror-flipping matches sites in cancelling pairs, resulting in zero net external magnetization. However, internally, it possesses electronic structures similar to ferromagnets, such as spin-splitting. This unique duality makes altermagnetic materials highly promising for developing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient spintronic devices and quantum technologies by reducing interference from stray magnetic fields.
- Altermagnetism bridges the gap between ferromagnetism (parallel spins) and antiferromagnetism (cancelling spins).
- It produces no external magnetic field, making devices less susceptible to external disturbances and allowing tighter packing of components.
- The internal electronic structure allows for spin-polarised currents, which is a key requirement for high-speed data storage and logic.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has unveiled the India AI Governance Guidelines to regulate Artificial Intelligence. The 66-page document outlines a risk-based approach, focusing on accountability, fairness, and transparency. It recommends establishing communication channels between ministries and regulators and suggests an inter-ministerial 'AI Governance Group.' The guidelines emphasize building AI models for Indian languages using local datasets and integrating Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) with AI. While the government currently follows a hands-off approach to pre-emptive regulation, it remains open to passing stringent laws if circumstances evolve, particularly regarding deepfakes and intellectual property rights.
- India is currently the world's second-largest user of Large Language Models (LLMs) after the U.S.
- The guidelines propose a risk-based framework focusing on 'people-centricity' and 'accountability' in AI models.
- A proposed 'AI Governance Group' would serve as the overarching inter-ministerial body for regulation.
The Supreme Court has called for a comprehensive restructuring of century-old property laws, including the Transfer of Property Act (1882), Registration Act (1908), and Stamp Act (1899). Justice P.S. Narasimha noted that property disputes account for 66% of civil litigation in India, describing the buying process as 'traumatic.' The court directed the Law Commission of India to prepare a report on aligning these laws with modern technology. Crucially, the court urged the Centre to adopt blockchain technology for property registration to ensure transparency, immutability, and ease of tracking ownership history and encumbrances.
- Property disputes constitute approximately 66% of all civil litigation in India, highlighting the need for legal reform.
- The court identified fake documentation, land encroachments, and 'intermediaries' as major hurdles in current property transactions.
- Blockchain technology is recommended to create a distributed, time-stamped ledger for land titles and ownership history.