BrainBuzz Academy

Why in the News?
India and the United Kingdom have signed multiple agreements to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. A key development includes the launch of the Defence Partnership-India (DP-I), a dedicated cell within the U.K. Ministry of Defence, to deepen military collaboration. Agreements signed at Aero India focus on joint production of advanced defence systems, enhancing interoperability, and boosting the domestic defence manufacturing sector.
Key Agreements and Collaborations
Launch of Defence Partnership-India (DP-I)
The U.K. Ministry of Defence formally launched DP-I, a dedicated programme office to serve as a one-stop shop for enhancing India-U.K. defence cooperation.
The initiative was announced by U.K. Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker at the U.K.-India Defence Partnership pavilion at Aero India.
Production of Advanced Defence Systems
Thales U.K. and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed a contract to deliver Laser Beam-Riding MANPADS (LBRMs).
The initial supply of STARStreak high-velocity missiles and launchers will be delivered this year.
Both Thales and BDL will collaborate to produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs), expanding the India-U.K. industrial partnership.
ASRAAM Assembly and Test Facility in India
MBDA U.K. and BDL are setting up an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad.
These missiles will be deployed on Jaguar and Light Combat Aircraft-Mk1A.
Naval Collaboration: Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) System
A Statement of Intent (SoI) was signed for the design and development of an IFEP system for Indian Navy ships.
Strategic Significance of the Agreements
Enhances India’s defence self-reliance through local manufacturing and technology transfer.
Strengthens bilateral security cooperation, addressing mutual security concerns.
Boosts employment and economic growth by creating defence-related jobs in both countries.
Lays the foundation for India to be part of the global supply chain of major U.K. defence firms.
Conclusion
These agreements mark a new era in India-U.K. defence relations, fostering technology-sharing, local manufacturing, and military collaboration. As India continues its push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, these initiatives will play a crucial role in enhancing national security and global defence partnerships. The establishment of DP-I and joint defence production facilities is a significant step towards deepening strategic ties between the two nations.

Why in the News?
The first prototype of India’s fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is expected to be rolled out by late 2026 or early 2027, while the Light Combat Aircraft-Mk2 (LCA-Mk2) prototype, a more advanced and larger version of the LCA, is anticipated by the end of 2025, according to officials from the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). These two programs play a crucial role in the modernization plans of the Indian Air Force (IAF), which currently has 31 fighter squadrons, below the required strength.
Development of LCA-Mk2
Jitendra J. Jadhav, Director-General of ADA, provided updates on the LCA-Mk2 development, stating: The project is in an advanced stage, with airframe assembly underway.
The roll-out is expected by the end of 2025.
The first test flight is scheduled for early 2026.
Induction into the IAF is planned from 2028-29.
The LCA-Mk2 will feature 11 weapon stations and be equipped with indigenous weaponry, making it a formidable addition to the IAF’s fleet.
Development Phase of AMCA
The AMCA program was sanctioned by the government in April 2024.
The development phase has begun, with expectations for its first test flight by the end of 2028.
Certification is targeted for 2032, with full induction into the IAF by 2034.
The AMCA is being designed as a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft (FGFA).
Key Features of AMCA
According to Krishna Rajendra Neeli, Outstanding Scientist and Officiating Project Director of the AMCA programme:
The aircraft will have an internal armament capacity of 1.5 tonnes.
It can also carry external weapons in a non-stealth mode.
Five prototypes will be produced for testing and development.
Initial production will focus on four aircraft per year, with plans to ramp up once the manufacturing process stabilizes.
Strategic Importance and Challenges
The development of LCA-Mk2 and AMCA comes at a crucial time, as India faces delays in new aircraft inductions while China and Pakistan continue rapid modernization of their fighter fleets. The IAF is under pressure to speed up its procurement and induction processes to maintain a strong defensive and offensive capability.
Conclusion
The introduction of the LCA-Mk2 and AMCA is set to significantly enhance India's indigenous defense capabilities. With ambitious timelines and a focus on self-reliance in military aviation, these aircraft will strengthen India's strategic and technological prowess in the coming decade. The success of these projects will be pivotal in ensuring a modernized and capable IAF that can effectively counter regional security threats.

Introduction
In a significant environmental development, the forest cover in Andhra Pradesh has grown by approximately 95.59 square kilometers across ten districts, according to Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh. This announcement was made in Parliament on Monday in response to a query raised by Nellore MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy.
Forest Cover Growth Across Districts
Among the districts witnessing the most significant increase in forest cover:
Vizianagaram recorded the highest growth at 35.35 sq. km.
SPSR Nellore followed with an increase of 17.77 sq. km.
Other districts seeing notable increases include:
Konaseema: 10.68 sq. km.
Krishna: 9.34 sq. km.
West Godavari: 9.16 sq. km.
Srikakulam: 6.04 sq. km.
Kakinada: 4.12 sq. km.
Sri Sathya Sai: 0.78 sq. km.
Guntur: 0.25 sq. km.
National-Level Impact
The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, released on December 21, 2024, by the Forest Survey of India, revealed an overall increase in forest and tree cover across India. Key statistics from the report include:
Net increase of 1445.81 sq. km. in forest and tree cover nationwide compared to ISFR 2021.
The total forest and tree cover in India now stands at 8.27 lakh sq. km., accounting for 25.17% of the country’s geographical area.
Significance and Environmental Impact
This growth in Andhra Pradesh's forest cover underscores the effectiveness of afforestation efforts and sustainable environmental policies. Increased forest cover plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation.
Expert Opinions & Government Initiatives
While the increase in forest cover is commendable, environmentalists stress the need for continuous efforts in reforestation, conservation, and combating deforestation. Government initiatives, such as afforestation programs and stricter regulations on land use, are crucial in sustaining this progress.
Conclusion
The rise in Andhra Pradesh’s forest cover reflects a positive environmental trend, aligning with national and global sustainability goals. Moving forward, a consistent focus on conservation and green initiatives will be essential in maintaining and furthering this progress. The findings from ISFR 2023 highlight the importance of collaborative efforts between the government, communities, and environmental organizations to ensure a greener future for India.

Introduction
The State government has established a State-Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). The committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary, will oversee agricultural development initiatives and sanction projects in line with the scheme’s guidelines. The formation of this panel aligns with the Centre’s efforts to restructure and streamline agricultural schemes for better efficiency and implementation.
Committee Structure and Responsibilities
The SLSC will include members from various departments such as Finance, Planning, Environment and Forests, Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, and Water Resources, along with commissioners and directors from the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments. B. Rajsekhar, Ex-Officio Special Chief Secretary, Agriculture and Cooperation Department, issued a Government Order (G.O.) notifying the committee's formation.
The panel is responsible for preparing and submitting proposals to the Central government as per approved guidelines, ensuring that allocations remain within 125% of the sanctioned budget under PM-RKVY.
Restructuring of Agricultural Schemes
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) has been restructured by merging various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs). This initiative ensures better resource utilization and flexibility for states to implement agriculture-related projects tailored to local needs.
Key components of the scheme include:
Soil Health and Fertility
Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
Agriculture Mechanization (Including CRM)
Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
Sub-Mission on Agroforestry
Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)
Objectives and Significance
The scheme aims to enhance farm production, productivity, and farmers' income by investing in pre- and post-harvest infrastructure, supporting agricultural start-ups, and promoting sustainable farming practices. The focus areas include water conservation, organic farming, soil nutrient management, and mechanization.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the rationalization of CSS schemes under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. This reorganization consolidates all existing schemes into two umbrella programs:
PM-RKVY, focused on sustainable agriculture.
Krishonnati Yojana (KY), targeting food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.
Financial Allocation and Implementation
The total proposed expenditure for PM-RKVY and KY is ₹1,01,321.61 crore, implemented through State Governments.
The financial distribution is:
Central Government share: ₹69,088.98 crore
State Government share: ₹32,232.63 crore
The PM-RKVY comprises several critical components, such as:
Soil Health Management
Rainfed Area Development
Agroforestry
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
Agricultural Mechanization (including Crop Residue Management)
Per Drop More Crop
Crop Diversification Programme
RKVY-DPR component
Accelerator Fund for Agri Start-ups
Enhanced Flexibility for State Governments
A crucial reform under the new structure is the flexibility granted to states to reallocate funds between different components based on their unique agricultural needs. This strategic shift ensures better responsiveness to emerging challenges such as:
Climate-resilient agriculture
Value chain development
Private sector participation
Nutritional security
Future Prospects and Conclusion
By rationalizing various agricultural schemes, the government aims to eliminate duplication, enhance convergence, and ensure efficient utilization of resources. The State-Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) will play a pivotal role in implementing these initiatives effectively.
The reforms under PM-RKVY are expected to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen rural economies, and enhance farmer welfare, ultimately aligning with India's goal of sustainable and self-sufficient agriculture.