Daily Prelims Notes 7 November 2024

Daily Prelims Notes

7 November 2024

Table Of Contents

1. Border Road Organisation (BRO) Projects
2. India’s 2024-25 Kharif output at record 164.7 million tonnes; rice at all-time high, pulses lower than average
3. Anglo-Indian leaders call for restoration of reservation in Parliament and Assemblies
4. India’s palm oil imports soar
5. Iran’s currency falls to an all-time low as Trump clinches presidency
6. 10 tigers traced, officials confirm to DTE after reports of 25 missing felines in Ranthambore cause panic
7. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) celebrated the completion of 250 years
8. Impact of Trumponomics on India and Global Economy
9. PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme: Financial Aid for Higher Education
10. RNA Editing: A Safer Alternative to DNA Editing with Promising Therapeutic Applications
11. India’s First Autonomous Surface Vessel Completes 1,500-km Voyage: A Step Towards Aatmanirbharta in Maritime Technology

1. Border Road Organisation (BRO) Projects

Sub : Geo

Sec: Mapping

2. India’s 2024-25 Kharif output at record 164.7 million tonnes; rice at all-time high, pulses lower than average

Sub : Geo

Sec: Eco Geo

Context:

• Rice production in 2024-25 is estimated at 120 million tonnes (MT), the highest in the last 11 years.
• Paddy, the main Kharif crop, saw a 5.8% increase over last year’s production, largely due to above-normal monsoon rainfall.

Details:

• Kharif Foodgrains:
  • Overall, Kharif foodgrain output is projected at 164.7 MT, which is 8.9 MT higher than last year and 12.4 MT above the average Kharif foodgrain production.
  • The record production was majorly due to an increase in the production of rice, jowar (sorghum), and maize.

• Pulses Decline:
  • Kharif pulses production at 7 MT is the lowest in nine years.
  • The decrease is mainly due to lower urad (black gram) production, which fell 25% from 1.6 MT in 2023-24 to 1.2 MT in 2024-25.
  • Moong (green gram) production is projected at 1.3 MT, slightly above last year but below the 10-year average of 1.4 MT.
  • Excessive rains and reduced acreage contributed to the decline, with only tur (pigeon pea) production being above the average.
• New Data Collection Method:
  • For the first time, the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) was used for crop area estimation under the Digital Agriculture Mission, replacing the manual Girdawari system in some states.
  • DCS was fully implemented in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha, showing an increase in rice cultivation, particularly in Uttar Pradesh.
• Oilseeds and Other Non-Foodgrains:
  • Oilseed production is up by 6.5% compared to last year.
  • In contrast, sugarcane, cotton, and jute production saw declines.

3. Anglo-Indian leaders call for restoration of reservation in Parliament and Assemblies

Sub: Polity

Sec: Constitution

Context:

• A meeting of leaders from the Anglo-Indian community raised concerns regarding the lack of political representation and socio-economic challenges faced by their community in India.
• They urged the Centre to reinstate the quota for Anglo Indians in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. They also asked the Centre to conduct a caste census to ascertain the number of Anglo-Indians in the country.

Who is an Anglo-Indian:

• The Anglo-Indian community in India traces its origins to an official policy of the British East India Company to encourage marriages of its officers with local women.
• Article 366(2) of the constitution of India states: “An Anglo-Indian means a person whose father or any of whose other male progenitors in the male line is or was of European descent but who is domiciled within the territory of India and is or was born within such territory of parents habitually resident therein and not established there for temporary purposes only.”

Reservation in Legislative Bodies:

• Due to their small numerical size and dispersed presence across India, the Anglo-Indians were granted reservations in legislative bodies.
• Anglo-Indians were provided two nominated seats in the Lok Sabha and one nominated seat in the State Legislative Assemblies to ensure adequate representation of the community.
• In January 2020, the Anglo-Indian reserved seats in the Parliament and State Legislatures were abolished by the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019.

Request for Caste Census:

• The meeting called on the government to include a separate category for Anglo-Indians in the upcoming Census, with a specific column to enumerate the community.
• They criticized the government’s reliance on the 2011 Census, which was not a caste census and did not reflect the true population of Anglo-Indians.
• According to the leaders, only 296 Anglo-Indians were recorded in the census, which they argued was an insufficient and inaccurate representation of the community’s actual numbers, estimated to be around 400,000.

Socio-Economic Challenges:

• The leaders highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by the Anglo-Indian community, citing a 2013 study by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
• The report revealed that the community suffers from educational and economic backwardness, housing problems, and an identity crisis. Despite these challenges, the government’s data failed to reflect these issues, and the community felt neglected and overlooked in policymaking.
• The meeting put forward a demand to appoint a Commission to ascertain the social, economic and educational situation of the Anglo-Indian community.

4. India’s palm oil imports soar

Sub: Eco

Sec: External sector

Context:

• In October 2024, India experienced a significant surge in palm oil imports, with the total imports rising by 59% compared to September 2024. The country imported 840,000 metric tons of palm oil in October, marking a three-month high.
• India buys palm oil mainly from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

Reasons for increased imports:

• Festival demand: India’s festive season, particularly the Dussehra and Diwali festivals, led to a sharp rise in consumption of sweets and fried foods. This seasonal demand prompted refiners to replenish their stocks of edible oils, including palm oil.
• Stock depletion: Import levels had been lower in previous months, which led refiners to boost purchases in October to make up for the deficit.
• Competitive pricing: Palm oil prices were relatively more competitive in August, which encouraged Indian buyers to place orders for deliveries in subsequent months.

Impact on palm oil producers:

• The increased demand from India, the world’s largest importer of vegetable oils, could potentially result in reduced palm oil stocks in major producing countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia.
• This scenario could support higher benchmark futures for palm oil in the global market.

Other edible oil imports:

• Soybean oil: India’s imports of soybean oil fell by 10% in October, amounting to 344,000 metric tons. This decline suggests a reduced demand for soybean oil in comparison to palm oil.
• Sunflower oil: Imports of sunflower oil rose sharply by 57% to 240,000 metric tons, primarily due to delayed shipments from the previous month arriving in October.

Overall edible oil imports:

• India’s total edible oil imports in October 2024 reached 42 million metric tons, a 34% increase from the previous month. The rise in total imports was driven by the sharp increase in palm oil and sunflower oil purchases.

5. Iran’s currency falls to an all-time low as Trump clinches presidency

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

• The Iranian rial hit an all-time low, trading at 703,000 rials to the U.S. dollar.
• This sharp depreciation occurred as Donald Trump secured a second term as U.S. President, which has raised concerns over future economic pressures on Iran.

Rial’s depreciation:

• In 2015, during Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers, the exchange rate was 32,000 rials to $1. By July 2024, when President Masoud Pezeshkian took office, the rate had risen to 584,000 rials to $1.
• The country’s economy has faced prolonged challenges due to international sanctions, particularly from the US, which were imposed over Iran’s nuclear program.

Iran’s Nuclear Program and Economic Sanctions:

• Iran’s nuclear program, which has made significant advancements in enriching uranium, particularly to near weapons-grade levels, has been a key factor in the sanctions imposed by the international community.
• The U.S. has been a major driver of these sanctions, leading to economic isolation for Iran.

Iran Nuclear Deal:

• The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, is an agreement reached in 2015 between Iran and six major world powers: the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China, and Germany (the P5+1).
• The deal aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions that had crippled Iran’s economy for years.
• Iran agreed to reduce its stockpile of enriched uranium and limit enrichment to 67% purity, which is far below the 90% threshold needed for weapons-grade material.

Withdrawal of US:

• In 2018, President Donald Trump withdrew US from JCPOA and re-imposed economic sanctions on Iran, which severely impacted its economy.
• The US withdrawal and the subsequent reimposition of sanctions prompted Iran to gradually scale back its compliance with the nuclear deal, enriching uranium to higher levels and increasing its stockpiles of enriched uranium.
• With Donald Trump back in office, the sanctions on Iran are expected to rise further.

6. 10 tigers traced, officials confirm to DTE after reports of 25 missing felines in Ranthambore cause panic

Sub : Env

Sec: Protected Area

Context:

• Ten of the 25 tigers recently reported as ‘missing’ from Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve have been located, officials confirmed to Down To Earth (DTE).
• Fifteen tigers are still unaccounted for. A committee has been set up to locate them, following a November 4 order by the chief wildlife warden.

Background on Missing Tigers:

• Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR) had an estimated 88 tigers as of the 2022 census.
• Evidence of tiger presence is gathered via pug marks, sightings, and trap cameras.
• This is not the first time tigers have been reported missing in RTR. From January 2019 to January 2022, 13 tigers went missing.
• Possible Reasons for Disappearance:
  • The recent end of the monsoon makes it difficult for officials to access the park’s interior.
  • Dense tiger populations often result in conflicts, possibly causing tigers to move away or, in some cases, die.
  • There have been cases of tiger poisoning in recent years, prompting calls for greater transparency in information sharing.

About Ranthambore Tiger Reserve:

• Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, India. It is one of the largest national parks in northern India and is known for its tiger population.

Key Features of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve:

• The reserve boasts a captivating landscape, with rugged hills, serene lakes, winding rivers, and the majestic Ranthambore Fort, which adds to the reserve’s historical and cultural significance.
• Rich Biodiversity: Ranthambore is home to a wide range of wildlife, including:
  • Bengal Tigers, Leopards, nilgai, sambar deer, chital, wild boar, and sloth bears are among the other notable species found in the reserve.
  • Avifauna: The reserve is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 300 species of birds, including the iconic Indian peafowl.
• Tiger Population Growth:
  • The tiger population in RTR has grown from about 32 in 2006 to 57 by 2022, reflecting conservation successes amidst ongoing challenges.
• Conservation Needs:
  • Effective habitat management is essential for tiger survival.
  • Currently, RTR has 1,400 sq km as critical habitat and 300 sq km as buffer. 
  • There’s a need to expand this area to support the growing tiger population.
  • Challenges include habitat restoration due to invasive species like Prosopis juliflora and augmenting prey availability.

Source: DTE

7. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) celebrated the completion of 250 years

Sub : Sci

Sec: defence

Context:

• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) on Nov 8 celebrated the completion of 250 years.

About Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd:

• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) is one of India’s leading shipbuilding companies, located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is known for its construction of a wide range of ships and submarines for the Indian Navy and other clients.
• Established: Founded in 1774 as a small dry dock, incorporated in 1934, and subsequently came under the Government of India in 1960.
• Ownership: It operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
• Core Products: Specializes in building warships, submarines, merchant ships, offshore platforms, and specialized vessels.
• Notable Projects:
  • Scorpene-Class Submarines: MDL is the key builder for the Indian Navy’s Scorpene-class submarines, developed in collaboration with the French company Naval Group.
  • Project 15B (Vishakhapatnam-Class Destroyers): MDL has constructed advanced guided-missile destroyers to strengthen India’s maritime defense capabilities.
  • Project 17A (Stealth Frigates): MDL is building stealth frigates for the Indian Navy, incorporating state-of-the-art technologies for reduced radar signature.
• Capabilities: Known for its modern infrastructure, MDL has facilities for ship assembly, outfitting, and testing. It uses advanced techniques and digital tools for efficient and precise construction.
• International Presence: MDL has also served international clients, gaining a reputation for high-quality builds and timely delivery.

8. Impact of Trumponomics on India and Global Economy

Sub : Eco

Sec: External sector

• Inflation Impact and Fed’s Stance
  • Higher Tariffs and Trade Wars: Trump’s proposed 20% tariff on imports and 200% duties on cars could drive up inflation in the U.S. by raising costs on imported goods.
  • Monetary Policy Shifts: The Federal Reserve may abandon its rate-cutting cycle due to inflationary pressures, shifting global monetary policies. This could lead the RBI to delay interest rate cuts, focusing on market stability before acting on inflation management.
• Global Economic Spillover
  • Fiscal Profligacy: Trump’s policies, such as tax cuts and increased tariffs, along with rising U.S. fiscal deficits, may lead to:
  • Dollar Fluctuations: The U.S. dollar may weaken due to rising fiscal deficits, as observed during Trump’s first term when the dollar index fell.
  • Bond and FX Volatility: Shifting U.S. policies could increase global market volatility, leading central banks, including the RBI, to prioritize financial stability over inflation management.
• Demand Outlook and Domestic Benefits
  • Corporate Tax Cuts: The reduction in U.S. corporate tax rates from 21% to 15% could boost demand, particularly benefitting Indian IT service providers, as U.S. companies have more capital for outsourcing.
  • Immigration and Green Cards: Trump’s proposal to offer automatic green cards to foreign graduates could benefit Indian students, driving up demand for skilled labor in the U.S.
• Elon Musk’s Influence on U.S.-India Relations
  • Pressure on India: Elon Musk’s potential involvement in the U.S. administration could lead to demands for lower import duties on Tesla vehicles and advocacy for satellite spectrum allocation in India, influencing trade relations.
  • Space and Technology Collaborations: Musk’s influence in space exploration and satellite technology could result in stronger U.S.-India collaborations and increased lobbying for Indian market access.
• China and Global Stimulus Impact
  • China’s Response to Tariffs: Trump’s high tariffs on Chinese goods could reduce China’s GDP growth by more than 2%, prompting China to implement a fiscal stimulus package worth 2-3% of GDP annually.
  • Impact on India: India may face increased competition for foreign investments as global investors shift focus to more stable regions, despite China’s stimulus measures.
• Impact on Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies
  • Bitcoin Surge: Trump’s potential pro-cryptocurrency stance could boost the market for digital currencies, including Bitcoin, as investors anticipate favorable U.S. policies toward cryptocurrencies.
• Stock and Bond Market Impact
  • U.S. Dollar Strengthening: Trump’s policies could lead to a 3% dollar rally, as inflation and higher interest rates strengthen the U.S. dollar.
  • Treasury Yields and Volatility: Rising U.S. fiscal deficits could push up Treasury yields, keeping yields elevated and reducing the attractiveness of U.S. government bonds.
  • Carry-Trades: Higher U.S. interest rates could drive investors to sell low-yielding currencies, such as the Japanese yen, to invest in the dollar.
• Stocks and Corporate Tax Cuts
  • Sectors Benefiting from Trumponomics: Key sectors, including banking, technology, defense, and fossil fuels, could benefit from reduced regulations and tax cuts.
  • Volatile Sectors: Tariff-sensitive industries, such as autos and semiconductors, may face volatility due to increased trade tensions, particularly impacting Japanese automakers and European electric vehicle and chip stocks.
• Commodities
  • Oil and Gas: Trump’s energy policies are likely to support U.S. oil and gas production, potentially keeping domestic oil prices low. However, Iran sanctions could reduce global oil supply, offsetting some of the surplus in the U.S.
  • Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR): Trump’s plan to increase SPR levels could support oil prices as the government purchases more oil.
• Emerging Markets and Capital Flows
  • Impact on Emerging Markets: Trump’s tariffs on countries like Mexico could have negative consequences on emerging markets, especially those with significant trade exposure to the U.S. and Mexico.
  • Capital Outflows: Rising U.S. Treasury yields and a stronger dollar could lead to capital outflows from emerging markets, tightening monetary policies globally.
• Sustainable Investing
  • Fossil Fuel Support: Trump’s rollback on environmental regulations could benefit oil, gas, and coal industries.
  • Impact on Renewable Energy: Trump’s intention to rescind unused funds from the Inflation Reduction Act could hurt sectors such as electric vehicles, solar energy, and wind energy, limiting subsidies for renewable energy projects.

Conclusion

• Stronger U.S. Dollar: Trump’s policies are expected to strengthen the U.S. dollar, with analysts predicting a 3% rally in the dollar if Trump wins.
• Higher Treasury Yields: The fiscal policies leading to $7.5 trillion in U.S. deficits could drive Treasury yields higher, contributing to global financial market volatility.
• Oil Prices: Trump’s energy policies could support low domestic oil prices, though geopolitical factors like Iran sanctions could offset this.
• Global Investment Shifts: Rising fiscal deficits and capital outflows could affect emerging markets like India, influencing investment strategies and economic growth.
• Mixed Sectoral Effects: IT services and corporate tax cuts could benefit India, while trade tensions and volatility in global supply chains pose challenges.

In summary, Trumponomics could lead to a stronger U.S. dollar, higher Treasury yields, and increased U.S. oil production, with mixed effects across global markets. India may experience opportunities like increased demand for IT services and skilled labour, but also face challenges related to trade disruptions, volatility in capital flows, and supply chain risks.

9. PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme: Financial Aid for Higher Education

Sub: Schemes

Sec: Education

Why in News

The Union Cabinet, recently approved the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme, a new Central Sector initiative aimed at supporting meritorious students with financial assistance for higher education. This scheme is set to provide collateral-free loans to students, covering their tuition and other educational expenses.

About PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme:

The scheme will operate in a mission mode to facilitate the provision of education loans for students admitted to top 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs) across the country.

It aims to cover over 22 lakh students annually, helping them access affordable, quality education without financial barriers.

Eligibility and Target Institutions

Students admitted to QHEIs, which include both government and private institutions, are eligible for the scheme.

The list of eligible institutions will be updated annually based on the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings, including:

• All HEIs within the top 100 NIRF rankings (overall, category-specific, and domain-specific).
• State government HEIs ranked between 101-200.
• All centrally governed

Loan Features and Amount

All eligible students can access loans without the need for collateral or a guarantor. The loan covers the full tuition fees and other related educational expenses.

75% Credit Guarantee: For loans up to ₹7.5 lakh, the Government of India will provide a 75% credit guarantee to support banks in extending education loans.

Interest Subvention Provisions

For Students with Annual Family Income up to ₹8 lakh: A 3% interest subvention will be provided on loans up to ₹10 lakh during the moratorium period (covering interest payments while in school), for students who are not beneficiaries of other government scholarships or interest subvention schemes.

For Students with Annual Family Income up to ₹4.5 lakh: Under the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) component of PM-USP, students pursuing technical/professional courses in approved institutions can receive full interest subvention on loans up to ₹10 lakh during the moratorium period.

Implementation Mechanism

The Department of Higher Education will manage a unified portal, “PM-Vidyalaxmi,” for loan applications and interest subvention requests.

The process will be fully digital, transparent, and user-friendly, enabling students to apply through an interoperable system.

Interest subvention payments will be facilitated through E-vouchers and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallets.

Financial Allocation: The government has allocated ₹3,600 crore for the scheme, covering the period from 2024-25 to 2030-31.

Integration with Existing Government Schemes

The PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme will supplement the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) and Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Education Loans (CGFSEL), both part of PM-USP, providing a comprehensive support framework for students seeking higher education.

This integration with PM-USP expands the financial support system, offering holistic aid for meritorious students in quality HEIs.

10. RNA Editing: A Safer Alternative to DNA Editing with Promising Therapeutic Applications

Sub : Sci

Sec: Biotech

Why in News

RNA editing recently gained significant attention after Wave Life Sciences, a U.S.-based biotechnology firm, became the first company to successfully treat a genetic condition through RNA editing in clinical trials. This achievement marks a milestone in precision medicine, showcasing RNA editing as a safer, reversible alternative to DNA editing.

What is RNA Editing?

Cells generate messenger RNA (mRNA) based on DNA instructions. This mRNA is used to produce proteins, and transcription errors in mRNA can lead to dysfunctional proteins, often causing genetic disorders.

RNA Editing Process: RNA editing allows correction of these errors post-mRNA synthesis but before protein production. A common technique uses adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes to alter specific adenosine molecules in mRNA into inosine, which functions similarly to guanosine.

Guide RNA (gRNA): Directs ADAR enzymes to target mRNA sites to correct single-point mutations, restoring protein function.

ADAR (Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA):

Enzyme that converts adenosine (A) to inosine (I) in RNA, which is then interpreted by the cell as guanosine (G).

Enables correction of RNA sequences, allowing potential treatment for genetic disorders without altering DNA.

Reduces risks associated with permanent DNA changes and minimizes immune reactions since ADAR enzymes are naturally found in human cells.

Used in RNA editing therapies for conditions like AATD, Huntington’s disease, and neurological disorders.

Inosine: A nucleoside that mimics guanosine in RNA, enabling correction of genetic errors through RNA editing.

Guanosine: A nucleoside in RNA and DNA that pairs with cytosine, essential for genetic stability and cellular energy.

The Difference Between RNA and DNA Editing:

Advances in RNA Editing: Wave Life Sciences’ Breakthrough Therapy

The company’s WVE-006 therapy targets α-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), a genetic disorder impacting the liver and lungs.

The therapy utilizes a guide RNA to direct ADAR enzymes to specific single-point mutations in the SERPINA1 gene, responsible for producing α-1 antitrypsin. Once corrected, cells can produce α-1 antitrypsin at normal levels, reducing AATD symptoms.

Exon Targeting: RNA editing also extends to exon modification, where exons code for proteins, enabling more precise therapeutic targeting. Ascidian Therapeutics is pioneering this approach to address ABCA4 retinopathy, a retinal disease.

What is RNA?

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is a single-stranded molecule composed of ribose sugar, phosphate groups, and nucleotide bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, uracil).

It plays a crucial role in various biological processes, mainly in coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Types of RNA:

Messenger RNA (mRNA): Carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.

Transfer RNA (tRNA): Helps in translating mRNA into proteins by bringing amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): A structural component of ribosomes, essential for protein synthesis.

MicroRNA (miRNA): Regulates gene expression by binding to mRNA, either degrading it or inhibiting its translation into protein.

RNA plays a central role in the process of transcription (copying genetic code from DNA to RNA) and translation (using mRNA to build proteins).

About Exons and Introns:

They are parts of a gene within DNA and RNA that play distinct roles in the process of creating proteins.

Exons: Exons are segments of a gene that contain coding sequences for proteins. After a gene is transcribed into pre-mRNA, exons are spliced together to form mature mRNA. This mRNA sequence directly translates into a protein.

Exons carry the essential information needed to build proteins, which perform various functions in the body.

Introns: Introns are non-coding sections of a gene. Introns are transcribed into pre-mRNA along with exons, but are removed during RNA splicing. They do not contribute to the protein sequence and are discarded.

Although they do not code for proteins, introns play a role in gene regulation, splicing, and potentially contribute to evolution by allowing genetic recombination and mutation without affecting protein-coding sequences.

11. India’s First Autonomous Surface Vessel Completes 1,500-km Voyage: A Step Towards Aatmanirbharta in Maritime Technology

Sub : Sci

Sec: defence

Why in News

The successful completion of a 1,500-km autonomous sea voyage by an Indian-built vessel, flagged off by Defence Minister, marks a groundbreaking milestone for India in autonomous maritime technology. Supported by the Indian Navy, this endeavor showcases India’s growing capabilities in unmanned naval systems, advancing national security through indigenous innovations.

The ‘Sagarmala Parikrama’

Virtually flagged off by Union Defence Minister during the NIIO’s annual event, Swavlamban, the journey was an official collaboration between the Indian Navy and Sagar Defence Engineering.

Developed by Sagar Defence Engineering, the vessel completed its journey from Mumbai to Thoothukudi without human intervention, demonstrating robust autonomous control over long distances.

Sagar Defence Engineering emphasized that this initiative reflects the power of innovation, collaboration, and India’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence technology.

The Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), alongside the Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC) and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, played an essential role in guiding and supporting this project.

By offering testing facilities and operational feedback, the Indian Navy enabled Sagar Defence Engineering to refine and execute this autonomous journey successfully.

The vessel demonstrated India’s indigenous capabilities in developing autonomous maritime systems capable of performing tasks without direct human control.

The journey underscored technological advancements in unmanned systems, highlighting India’s potential to secure maritime regions using homegrown innovations.

The autonomous vessel technology can support coastal surveillance, littoral patrol, high-speed interdiction, and low-intensity maritime operations, thereby enhancing the operational reach of the Indian Navy.

Applications may extend to ocean research, environmental monitoring, and search-and-rescue missions.