15th February 2025

Topic: Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 (Mission Poshan 2.0)
Relevance: GS Paper 2 Governance
Source: The Hindu
Context:

Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at improving early childhood care, nutrition, and overall health for vulnerable sections of society, particularly children (0-6 years), adolescent girls, and pregnant & lactating mothers. It merges key nutrition-related initiatives under a unified umbrella to combat malnutrition, stunting, wasting, and anemia in India.
Launched in 2021-22, the scheme is part of India’s broader Poshan Abhiyan (National Nutrition Mission) and will continue until 2025-26. It focuses on enhancing the capacity of Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) and ensuring better service delivery for beneficiaries.
Objectives of Mission Poshan 2.0

1. Reduce Malnutrition – Address stunting, underweight, wasting, and anemia through strategic nutrition interventions.
2. Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) – Improve pre-school education through Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi (PBPB) initiative.
3. Strengthen Anganwadi Services – Upgrade 2 lakh Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) for better nutrition & learning.
4. Community Nutrition Awareness – Promote healthy eating habits and food diversity through awareness campaigns.
5. Convergence Approach – Collaborate with various ministries to ensure effective implementation.
   Key Components & Features
6. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
   • Originally launched in 1975, ICDS is now a part of Mission Poshan 2.0.
   • Provides supplementary nutrition, immunization, and early education.
   • Target groups:
   o Children (6 months – 6 years) – Supplementary food & early childhood care.
   o Pregnant & lactating women – Additional nutritional support.
   o Adolescent girls (14-18 years) – Special focus in Aspirational Districts & North-Eastern Region.
7. Nutrition Support & Diet Plans
   • Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP) – Nutrient-rich food supply.
   • Mandatory Millet Supply – At least once a week to promote millet consumption.
   • Poshan Vatika (Nutrition Gardens) – Community-driven kitchen gardens at AWCs & schools for fresh food supply.
   • Use of Fortified Rice & Millets – Enhanced nutrition to prevent deficiencies.
8. Strengthening Anganwadi Centres (AWCs)
   • Upgrading 2 lakh AWCs with better infrastructure, digital tools, and improved service delivery.
   • Introduction of DIY & Locally Available Toys for interactive pre-school education under PBPB initiative.
   • Aadhar-Linked Beneficiary Registration (Aadhar not mandatory to avail benefits).
9. Use of Technology for Monitoring
   • Poshan Tracker App – AI-based real-time tracking of malnutrition, stunting, and undernutrition.
   • Digital growth monitoring tools – Efficient record-keeping & performance evaluation.
10. Awareness & Outreach Initiatives
    • Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi (PBPB) – Focuses on high-quality pre-school education at AWCs.
    • Rashtriya Poshan Maah (September every year) – A month-long campaign to raise nutrition awareness.
    • Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (B.P.K.K.) – A national food atlas to promote crop diversity.
    Implementation & Governance
    Convergence Model
    Mission Poshan 2.0 integrates multiple ministries and departments:

• Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) – Nodal agency.
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) – Immunization, health check-ups.
• Ministry of Education – Early childhood learning support.
• Ministry of Agriculture – Promotion of nutritious crops, fortified foods.
• Ministry of Rural Development – SHG-led nutrition gardens, livelihood support.
Funding & Financial Support
• Centrally Sponsored Scheme – 60:40 cost-sharing between Centre & States (90:10 for NE & Himalayan States).
• Budgetary Allocation – ₹20,263 crore (2021-22 to 2025-26).
Relevance of Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0

1. Tackling Malnutrition in India
   • India has one of the highest rates of child malnutrition globally.
   • According to NFHS-5 (2019-21):
   o 35.5% of children under 5 are stunted.
   o 19.3% suffer from wasting.
   o 32.1% are underweight.
   o 57% of women (15-49 years) are anemic.
2. Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
   • SDG 2 – Zero Hunger

• SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-being
• SDG 4 – Quality Education
• SDG 5 – Gender Equality

3. Addressing Regional Disparities
   • Special focus on Aspirational Districts & North-Eastern States, where malnutrition is most severe.
4. Economic & Human Capital Impact
   • A well-nourished population leads to better cognitive development and higher productivity.
   • Reducing malnutrition can boost India’s GDP by 2-3%, as per World Bank estimates.
   Challenges & the Way Forward
5. Implementation Gaps – Lack of trained workforce in Anganwadis.
6. Leakages & Corruption – Issues in fund allocation & food distribution.
7. Social & Cultural Barriers – Resistance to dietary changes & low awareness.
8. Infrastructure Deficiencies – Many AWCs lack basic facilities.
   Prelims Practice Question
   Q. Consider the following statements regarding Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0:
9. It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at tackling malnutrition among children, adolescent girls, and pregnant & lactating women.
10. The scheme includes the Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi initiative, which focuses on providing digital learning tools for higher education.
11. Poshan Vatika under the scheme promotes nutrition gardens at Anganwadi Centres and Government schools.
12. The Poshan Tracker App uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to monitor malnutrition levels among beneficiaries.
    Which of the above statements are correct?
    (A) 1, 2, and 3 only
    (B) 1, 3, and 4 only
    (C) 2 and 4 only
    (D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
    Answer:
    Correct Option: (B) 1, 3, and 4 only
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is correct – Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme targeting malnutrition among children (0-6 years), adolescent girls, and pregnant & lactating women.
    Statement 2 is incorrect – The Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi initiative under the scheme focuses on pre-school education at Anganwadi Centres, not higher education.
    Statement 3 is correct – Poshan Vatika promotes the establishment of nutrition gardens at Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) and Government schools to provide fresh vegetables and fruits to beneficiaries.
    Statement 4 is correct – The Poshan Tracker App utilizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to monitor malnutrition, stunting, and undernutrition in real time.
    Thus, the correct answer is (B) 1, 3, and 4 only.
    Mains Model Question
    Q. Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 is a critical step towards addressing malnutrition and improving early childhood care in India. Discuss the key features, significance, and challenges of the scheme. Suggest measures for its effective implementation.
    Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at tackling malnutrition, enhancing early childhood education, and improving maternal and adolescent health. It integrates various nutrition-related initiatives to create a comprehensive strategy for child development and nutritional security. The scheme includes Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), which provides nutrition support, immunization, and pre-school education. The Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi initiative ensures quality early childhood education at Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), while Poshan Vatika promotes nutrition gardens for fresh food availability. The Poshan Tracker App uses AI-based monitoring to track malnutrition, stunting, and undernutrition. Additionally, 2 lakh AWCs are being upgraded for better infrastructure and service delivery.
    The scheme is significant as it targets stunting, wasting, and anemia, which are major health concerns in India. According to NFHS-5, 35.5% of children under five years are stunted, 19.3% suffer from wasting, and 57% of women (15-49 years) are anemic. It aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and Good Health & Well-being (SDG 3). By improving child health and cognitive skills, it contributes to human capital development and economic productivity.
    However, challenges remain in implementation, fund leakage, lack of trained workforce, and inadequate infrastructure in many AWCs. Strengthening training programs for Anganwadi workers, ensuring efficient fund utilization, involving SHGs and Panchayats for outreach, and leveraging public-private partnerships can enhance the scheme’s effectiveness. With proper execution, Mission Poshan 2.0 can significantly improve nutrition outcomes and early childhood development in India.
    Topic: Summary of India-U.S. Joint Statement (February 2025)
    Relevance: GS Paper 2 International Relations
    Source : Indian Express
    Context:

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. on February 13, 2025, both countries reaffirmed the strength of their Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, highlighting the significance of mutual trust, shared democratic values, and a commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. This partnership is seen as crucial for addressing global challenges and fostering regional security. The leaders launched a new initiative, U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) to enhance collaboration across defense, trade, technology, and energy security.
Key aspects of the statement include:

1. Defense Cooperation:
   Both nations committed to deepening defense ties with a focus on military interoperability. This includes a ten-year Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership and the integration of U.S.-origin defense technologies into India’s military systems. The partnership aims to streamline defense trade, technology exchange, and co-production, with specific plans for new defense procurements, such as Javelin missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles.
2. Trade and Investment:
   The leaders set a bold target of doubling bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, with initiatives to negotiate a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and remove trade barriers. Investments from Indian companies in the U.S. were recognized, with a focus on strengthening bilateral economic ties through greenfield investments in critical sectors.
3. Energy Security:
   Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to energy security, particularly in oil, gas, and civil nuclear energy. India’s potential membership in the International Energy Agency and the ongoing collaboration in energy infrastructure development were discussed.
4. Technology and Innovation:
   The U.S.-India TRUST initiative was launched to boost collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, biotechnology, and space exploration. Both countries committed to fostering innovation and enhancing research collaborations, particularly in the defense and critical technology sectors.
5. Multilateral Cooperation:
   The leaders reiterated the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. As members of the Quad, India and the U.S. pledged to strengthen cooperation in regional security and countering terrorism. A focus was placed on initiatives for energy infrastructure and economic corridors in the Indian Ocean Region.
6. People-to-People Ties:
   Emphasizing the growing significance of the Indian diaspora in the U.S., both leaders pledged to deepen academic and professional ties, including joint educational programs and greater movement of students and researchers.
   Historical Context and Previous Stances of India-U.S. Relations
   The India-U.S. relationship has evolved significantly over the past few decades, especially since the end of the Cold War. Key milestones in the partnership include:
7. 1990s – Beginning of a Strategic Shift:
   After the end of the Cold War, the U.S.-India relationship began to gradually shift towards strategic engagement. The signing of the India-U.S. Framework for Strategic Cooperation (2005) marked a turning point in the bilateral relationship, which was further strengthened through the Civil Nuclear Deal of 2008, establishing a strong foundation for future cooperation in defense, trade, and technology.
8. 2010s – Strategic and Global Partnership:
   During the Obama administration, U.S.-India relations expanded significantly, with efforts to forge a comprehensive partnership across a range of areas such as counterterrorism, trade, defense, and climate change. The U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008) and the Defense Framework Agreement (2015) further solidified ties. The Quad grouping, which includes India, the U.S., Japan, and Australia, also gained prominence during this period, with a shared focus on regional security and maritime cooperation.
9. Trump Administration:
   The India-U.S. relationship continued to flourish under President Donald Trump (2017-2021), who emphasized strong defense ties and trade relations. Under Trump, India became a Major Defense Partner of the U.S., and both countries signed multiple defense agreements, including COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) and BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement). Trump’s visit to India in February 2020 further strengthened ties, particularly in defense and trade.
10. Biden Administration:
    Under President Joe Biden, the relationship has continued to focus on a rules-based international order, climate change, and counterterrorism cooperation. The U.S.-India Strategic Partnership has been elevated with greater collaboration on issues such as COVID-19 vaccination efforts, climate change, and technology transfer. The launch of initiatives like the TRUST initiative and U.S.-India COMPACT under Biden aims to expand cooperation in emerging technologies and regional security.
    Relevance of the India-U.S. Partnership for India’s Strategic Interests
11. Geopolitical Significance:
    The partnership with the U.S. is crucial for India, especially in the context of an increasingly assertive China. The Indo-Pacific region remains a focal point of the India-U.S. strategic partnership, particularly in terms of maintaining a free and open maritime space. The Quad and joint military exercises like Tiger Triumph exemplify this alignment.
12. Defense Modernization:
    The U.S. is an essential partner in India’s defense modernization plans. The integration of advanced defense technologies and co-production initiatives ensures that India’s defense capabilities are upgraded to meet modern security challenges.
13. Economic Growth:
    Expanding trade and investment opportunities with the U.S. will help India enhance its economic growth and achieve its goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy. The Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) could further reduce trade barriers and enhance market access, while U.S. investments in India’s manufacturing and technology sectors could boost job creation.
14. Technology and Innovation:
    With the world moving toward a knowledge-driven economy, India’s collaboration with the U.S. on critical and emerging technologies will play a pivotal role in shaping India’s future economic and technological landscape. Initiatives like TRUST and INDUS Innovation are expected to foster innovation and lead to breakthroughs in sectors like AI, space technology, and biotechnology.
    The India-U.S. joint statement reflects the continued evolution of a multifaceted relationship between two of the world’s largest democracies. The partnership is expected to play an increasingly important role in addressing regional and global challenges, particularly in the areas of defense, trade, technology, and energy. The trajectory of this relationship aligns well with India’s strategic objectives, reinforcing its role as a key player in global geopolitics. The strategic shift towards deeper engagement with the U.S. ensures that India remains at the center of a transforming global order.
    Prelims Practice Question:
    Q. Consider the following statements regarding the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership:
15. The U.S.-India COMPACT initiative focuses on enhancing defense cooperation, military interoperability, and trade relations between the two countries.
16. The partnership includes initiatives to enhance collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration.
17. The U.S.-India partnership explicitly aims to reduce trade barriers by negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
    Which of the statements given above are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1, 2, and 3
    (d) 1 only
    Answer: (c) 1, 2, and 3
    Explanation:
18. Statement 1 is correct: The U.S.-India COMPACT initiative focuses on enhancing defense cooperation, military interoperability, and strengthening trade relations, particularly in key sectors like defense, technology, and energy.
19. Statement 2 is correct: The partnership emphasizes collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing, and space exploration, under initiatives like U.S.-India TRUST.
20. Statement 3 is correct: The partnership includes efforts to negotiate a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and aims to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. This reflects a commitment to reducing trade barriers and boosting economic cooperation between the two countries.
    Thus, all three statements are accurate. Therefore, the correct answer is (c).
    Mains Model Question:
    Q. Discuss the key initiatives and outcomes of the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership as outlined in the recent joint statement. How do these initiatives strengthen bilateral ties in areas such as defense, trade, energy, and technology?

The India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, as outlined in the recent joint statement, highlights key initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in defense, trade, energy, and technology.
In the defense sector, the partnership has seen the launch of the U.S.-India COMPACT initiative, which focuses on enhancing military cooperation and interoperability. A major outcome is the establishment of a new ten-year Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership, aimed at advancing defense cooperation across air, sea, land, space, and cyberspace. The partnership also includes increased U.S. defense sales to India, including advanced weaponry and technology, and the development of co-production capabilities. Notable agreements include the procurement of P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft and Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
In trade, the leaders set an ambitious goal to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030 through the negotiation of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). This agreement aims to eliminate barriers, increase market access, and enhance supply chain resilience. Early steps include reducing tariffs on U.S. products in sectors like motorcycles and medical devices.
The energy security aspect focuses on ensuring affordable and reliable energy access. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to increasing cooperation in oil, gas, and civil nuclear energy. The partnership also aims to expand strategic petroleum reserves and work towards U.S.-designed nuclear reactors in India.
The technology sector saw the launch of the U.S.-India TRUST initiative, which aims to promote collaboration on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, and space exploration. The leaders also committed to increasing cooperation in critical minerals, vital for advanced manufacturing and technology production.
In sum, the India-U.S. strategic partnership is a dynamic and multi-dimensional engagement that enhances cooperation across defense, trade, energy, and technology, positioning both nations as pivotal players in the global arena.
Topic: Wholesale Price Index
Relevance: GS Paper 3 Economy
Source: The Hindu
Context:
The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) measures the average change over time in the prices of goods sold and traded in the wholesale market. It helps assess inflation by tracking the prices of primary articles, fuel & power, and manufactured products.

For January 2025, WPI data reveals an annual inflation rate of 2.31%, with a month-over-month decrease of 0.45% compared to December 2024. Key factors driving the inflation include an increase in the prices of food products, food articles, and manufactured goods.
Key Groups:

1. Primary Articles (22.62% weight):
   o Price decline of 2.01% in January 2025.
   o Food articles saw a decrease of 3.62%, while prices for crude petroleum, non-food articles, and minerals increased.
2. Fuel & Power (13.15% weight):
   o A slight increase of 0.47% in January 2025.

o Mineral oils and electricity prices rose, but coal prices remained steady.

3. Manufactured Products (64.23% weight):
   o A modest increase of 0.14%.
   o Significant price hikes were seen in food products, machinery, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, but basic metals and transport equipment experienced a decline.
4. Food Index (24.38% weight):
   o The food index dropped from 195.9 in December 2024 to 191.4 in January 2025.
   o The annual inflation rate for food decreased from 8.89% in December 2024 to 7.47% in January 2025.
   Month-over-Month Changes:
   • Primary Articles: Declined by 2.01% in January 2025.
   • Fuel & Power: Increased slightly by 0.47%.
   • Manufactured Products: Increased marginally by 0.14%.
   The WPI for January 2025 indicates a stable inflation environment with some price pressures in food and manufactured goods, while the fuel and power sectors show relatively stable prices.
   Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India:
5. What is WPI?
   The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) measures the average change in the prices of goods sold in bulk at the wholesale level. It is a crucial indicator used to track inflation in an economy, particularly focusing on the prices of goods traded in the wholesale markets. In India, WPI is published monthly by the Office of the Economic Adviser (OEA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
   WPI plays a significant role in understanding inflation trends in an economy, as it is directly related to the price level of various products that manufacturers and traders deal with.
6. WPI Calculation in India
   The WPI calculation involves the following steps:
   • Base Year Selection:
   o The base year for the WPI in India is 2011-12. This means that the index is constructed by comparing the price changes of goods in a given month to the prices in the base year.
   • Basket of Goods:
   o The WPI reflects the price changes of a selected basket of goods. This basket includes both primary articles (like food, fuel, and raw materials) and manufactured products. The basket is divided into three main groups:
7. Primary Articles (weight: 22.62% of the index)
8. Fuel and Power (weight: 13.15% of the index)
9. Manufactured Products (weight: 64.23% of the index)
   • Data Collection:
   o WPI data is compiled from various sources, including wholesale market prices, government price surveys, and industry reports. Prices are collected from different locations across India, with data points for major urban centers.
   • Weight Assignment:
   o The weights assigned to various groups and sub-groups are based on their relative importance in the economy. These weights are derived from the National Accounts Statistics (NAS) and industrial output statistics.
   • Formula for WPI Calculation:
   o The WPI is calculated using the Laspeyres Price Index formula, which is the ratio of the current period price to the base period price, adjusted by the weights of each commodity or sub-group.
10. Components of WPI
    The WPI is made up of three major components, each with different weightage:
11. Primary Articles (22.62% Weight):
    o These include food articles (like vegetables, fruits, cereals), non-food articles (such as raw materials like cotton), and minerals.
    o Food articles are crucial to the WPI as they directly affect the cost of living.
12. Fuel and Power (13.15% Weight):
    o This category includes energy-related items like petroleum, coal, natural gas, and electricity. Fuel prices have a significant impact on inflation as they influence transportation and production costs.
13. Manufactured Products (64.23% Weight):
    o This includes goods like textiles, chemicals, machinery, metals, and pharmaceuticals. Manufactured goods reflect the prices of finished goods in the economy.
14. WPI Standards and Methodology
    • Base Year (2011-12):
    o The WPI was rebased to 2011-12, meaning that prices are indexed relative to this base year. The WPI calculation methodology has undergone changes to reflect the structure of the economy and ensure better representation of goods and services.

• Indexing and Weights:
o Weights are updated periodically to reflect changes in the economy and consumption patterns. These are based on surveys conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) and the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO).
• Revisions:
o The basket of goods included in the WPI is revised at regular intervals to incorporate new products, emerging industries, and shifts in consumer behavior. The methodology for data collection is also updated to improve accuracy.

5. Uses and Significance of WPI
   WPI plays an important role in various aspects of the economy:
   • Inflation Measurement:
   o WPI helps track inflationary trends at the wholesale level. It serves as a precursor to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures inflation at the retail level. WPI is usually more volatile than CPI as it represents wholesale prices, which can fluctuate more rapidly than the retail prices consumers experience.
   • Policy Formulation:
   o The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the government use WPI data to decide on monetary policies, including interest rates and inflation-targeting mechanisms. It also helps in designing fiscal policies and subsidy frameworks.
   • Economic Analysis:
   o Economists and analysts use WPI to gauge supply-side inflation, identify sectors facing inflationary pressures, and predict trends in the cost of living.
   • Business Decisions:
   o Businesses and manufacturers use WPI data to track raw material costs, predict price movements, and adjust their production strategies.
6. Challenges and Limitations of WPI
   • Coverage Issues:
   o WPI does not cover services, which are a significant part of the economy. It only focuses on goods, so it may not fully represent the overall price level in the economy.
   • Lags in Data:
   o WPI data may not be available in real-time, which can delay the response to rapid changes in price movements.
   • Impact of Imported Goods:
   o WPI may not accurately reflect price changes due to fluctuations in imported goods, as it mainly focuses on domestic wholesale prices.
7. WPI vs CPI (Consumer Price Index)
   While WPI and CPI are both important inflation indices, they differ in the following ways:
   • WPI tracks wholesale prices, mainly focusing on goods. It includes the prices of raw materials and finished goods before they reach the consumer.
   • CPI tracks the prices of goods and services at the consumer level, reflecting the price changes that individuals face in their everyday purchases, including food, housing, healthcare, and education.
   In India, WPI has traditionally been used for industrial price analysis, while CPI is more relevant for tracking the cost of living.
   Prelims Practice Question:
   Which of the following statements about the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India is/are correct?
8. The base year for the WPI in India is 2011-12.
9. The WPI is calculated using the Laspeyres Price Index formula.
10. The WPI includes both goods and services at the retail level.
11. WPI is primarily used to track inflation at the consumer level.
    Select the correct answer using the code given below:
    A) 1, 2, and 3 only
    B) 1 and 2 only
    C) 2 and 4 only
    D) 1, 2, and 4 only
    Answer:
    B) 1 and 2 only
    Explanation:
    • Statement 1: Correct. The base year for the WPI in India is 2011-12.
    • Statement 2: Correct. The WPI is calculated using the Laspeyres Price Index formula, which compares the current price level to the base year’s price level using fixed weights.
    • Statement 3: Incorrect. The WPI only includes goods and does not cover services, which are part of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
    • Statement 4: Incorrect. WPI tracks inflation at the wholesale level, not the consumer level. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is used to track inflation at the consumer level.
    Mains Model Question:
    Q. “Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is a significant indicator of inflation in the economy. Discuss the calculation, components, and limitations of the WPI in India. How does it differ from the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in measuring inflation?”
    The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is a key measure of inflation that tracks changes in the prices of goods at the wholesale level, before they reach the consumer. The WPI in India is calculated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry using the Laspeyres Price Index method. This index compares the current prices of a basket of goods with the prices in a base year (currently 2011-12). The weights of different goods in the basket are fixed based on their share in total output, and price changes in these goods contribute to the overall WPI.
    The components of the WPI include three major groups:
12. Primary Articles (about 22.5% weight): This includes food items, non-food items like raw materials, and fuels.
13. Fuel and Power (about 13.2% weight): This includes energy sources like petrol, diesel, and natural gas.
14. Manufactured Products (about 64.3% weight): This segment includes manufactured goods such as textiles, machinery, and chemicals.
    However, despite its importance, the WPI has some limitations:
    • Excludes Services: The WPI only covers goods and does not account for services, which constitute a significant portion of the consumer’s expenditure.
    • No Direct Consumer Perspective: The WPI tracks inflation at the wholesale level, which may not fully reflect the price changes consumers face at retail levels. Hence, it may not accurately represent the cost of living for individuals.
    • Fixed Weights: The weights used in the WPI calculation are periodically revised, but the fixed base year may not always capture the changing dynamics of the economy.
    Difference from CPI: The Consumer Price Index (CPI), on the other hand, is focused on measuring inflation from the consumer’s perspective. It includes both goods and services, unlike the WPI, and is a better indicator of price changes experienced by households. While the WPI is a useful tool for tracking inflation at the wholesale level, the CPI is more representative of inflation at the retail level and consumer spending patterns.
    In conclusion, while both WPI and CPI serve as important inflation indicators, their differing scopes and focus areas make them complementary in understanding the overall price dynamics in the economy.
    Topic: President’s Rule in Manipur
    Relevance: GS Paper 2 Polity
    Source: The Hindu
    Context:

The Manipur issue has been a long-standing one, involving ethnic and political tensions. The state has faced significant challenges, particularly after the violence that erupted in May 2023, which worsened the already existing ethnic divide. The violence in the state between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has been accompanied by political instability and governmental challenges. The resignation of N. Biren Singh as Chief Minister on February 9, 2025, led to the imposition of President’s Rule in the state, which marked the collapse of the BJP-led government in the state.
The Manipur Issue
Manipur has a complex ethnic structure. The Meitei community predominantly resides in the Imphal Valley, while the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities primarily live in the hilly regions of the state. The state has been grappling with long-standing ethnic divisions, with various groups demanding autonomy or separate statehood. These tensions escalated into violent clashes in 2023, further deepening the divide between the groups.

The violence in 2023 was a catalyst for political instability, which culminated in the collapse of the state government. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led coalition, which included regional allies such as the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and the National People’s Party (NPP), lost support due to the worsening situation on the ground. Both the Kuki and Naga groups had withdrawn their support from the government, while the Congress had been vocal in opposition to the government’s handling of the situation.

As tensions continued to rise, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned, paving the way for the imposition of President’s Rule, which would temporarily suspend the functioning of the state government and place governance under the control of the central government.
Provisions of President’s Rule
The imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur was carried out under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which allows the President of India to dissolve the state government and take over its functions in case the government of a state is unable to function according to the provisions of the Constitution.
Article 356 – Proclamation of Emergency (President’s Rule)
Article 356 deals with the imposition of President’s Rule in a state, also referred to as State Emergency. The provision grants the President the authority to dissolve a state’s legislative assembly and take over the governance of the state if the President believes that the government of the state cannot be carried on according to the provisions of the Constitution.
The process for imposing President’s Rule is as follows:

1. Governor’s Report: The Governor of the state reports to the President, stating that the government in the state cannot function according to the constitutional provisions. This report may be based on the breakdown of law and order, political instability, or the failure of the state government to provide adequate governance.
2. President’s Decision: After receiving the Governor’s report and any other relevant information, the President may decide to proclaim President’s Rule in the state.
3. Suspension of the Legislative Assembly: The state’s legislative assembly is placed under suspended animation, meaning it cannot meet or pass laws during the period of President’s Rule.
4. Central Government Takes Over: The President assumes all executive functions of the state government. The powers of the legislature are transferred to the Parliament, and the Union Government may exercise executive authority through the Governor.
   The imposition of President’s Rule has often been a contentious issue, with critics arguing that it undermines the federal structure of India. The use of this provision is subject to political considerations, as it is often seen as a tool for the central government to control states with opposition-led governments.
   Constitutional and Political Context of President’s Rule in Manipur
   In the case of Manipur, the President’s Rule was imposed after the state government led by N. Biren Singh collapsed following the ethnic violence and the withdrawal of support from key allies. The violence and the breakdown in governance led the central government to consider this drastic step. The notification issued by the Union Home Secretary declared that the President was satisfied that the situation in Manipur had reached a point where the government could not be carried out in accordance with the Constitution.
   During this period, the central government assumes full control over the state’s administration. The powers vested in the state legislature are now exercised by Parliament, and the Union government can take direct action to stabilize the situation. The appointment of a new Chief Minister, or the reorganization of the state government, will depend on the outcome of political negotiations or further decisions from the central government.
   Prelims Practice Question:
   Q. With reference to the imposition of President’s Rule under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, consider the following statements:
5. The President’s Rule can only be imposed after a resolution is passed by the state legislature.
6. The powers of the state legislature are transferred to the Parliament during the period of President’s Rule.
7. The President can take over the executive functions of the state government only in case of a breakdown of law and order.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   A) 1 and 2 only
   B) 2 and 3 only
   C) 1 and 3 only
   D) 2 only
   Answer:
   Correct Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
   Explanation:
8. Statement 1 is incorrect: President’s Rule can be imposed even without a resolution being passed by the state legislature. It is based on the Governor’s report to the President, stating that the government in the state cannot function according to the Constitution. A resolution by the state legislature is not a requirement for the imposition of President’s Rule.
9. Statement 2 is correct: When President’s Rule is imposed, the powers of the state legislature are transferred to the Parliament. The Parliament assumes the legislative functions of the state during the period of President’s Rule.
10. Statement 3 is correct: The President can assume executive functions in a state when there is a breakdown of law and order, failure of the state government to carry out constitutional duties, or other conditions that prevent the state government from functioning. This includes the dissolution of the legislative assembly and assuming control over the executive functions.
    Therefore, the correct answer is B) 2 and 3 only.
    Mains Model Question:
    Q. The imposition of President’s Rule in a state is a significant constitutional measure that overrides the state government’s functions. Discuss the constitutional provisions of President’s Rule under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, its historical context, and its implications, using the example of the recent imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur.
    The imposition of President’s Rule, governed by Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, is a critical mechanism designed to address situations where a state government is unable to function according to the provisions of the Constitution. Article 356 authorizes the President to dissolve the state government and assume control over the administration in case of a constitutional breakdown.
    Constitutional Provisions: Under Article 356, the President may issue a proclamation of emergency if the Governor of a state reports that the government cannot function as per the constitutional framework. The President assumes all executive powers of the state, and the state legislature is either suspended or dissolved. The Union Government then governs the state through the Governor, and the legislative powers are transferred to the Parliament. The imposition of President’s Rule can last for six months, but it may be extended with parliamentary approval.
    Historical Context and Use: President’s Rule has been invoked multiple times in India, often in politically unstable or violent situations. It has been controversial, as it is sometimes viewed as an infringement on federalism. Over the years, it has been used to dismiss state governments deemed incapable of functioning properly, often citing law and order breakdowns or political unrest.
    Case of Manipur: The imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur in February 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, illustrates the application of this provision. Manipur had been witnessing ethnic violence since May 2023, and the withdrawal of support from key allies left the state government without a majority. The Governor’s report, coupled with the failure of the state government to resolve the violence, led to the central government invoking President’s Rule. This move aimed to stabilize the situation, ensure law and order, and potentially pave the way for political dialogue.
    Implications: While President’s Rule can restore order, it also centralizes power and reduces the state’s autonomy, raising concerns about democratic functioning and federal balance. It can temporarily help in crisis management but does not address long-term political solutions, as seen in the case of Manipur, where ethnic tensions persist despite the constitutional intervention.