GK Express of 05/03/2026

🧠 Thought of the Day

“Science is a beautiful gift to humanity; we should not distort it.”

— Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

📘 Concept of the Day

Inequality-Adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI)

Why is this Topic Important?

IHDI is an important indicator used in the Human Development Report of the United Nations. It shows the real level of development in a country by considering inequality.

What is Human Development Index (HDI)?

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a measure used to evaluate the overall development of a country based on three dimensions:

Health (life expectancy)
Education (years of schooling)
Standard of living (income level)

Human Development – improvement in people's quality of life, education, health and income.

What is Inequality-Adjusted HDI (IHDI)?

The Inequality-Adjusted Human Development Index measures human development while considering inequality within a country.

In other words, it shows how development is actually distributed among people in society.

Why IHDI is Needed?

HDI shows the average development of a country.
But it does not show whether development is equally shared.
Some people may be very rich while others remain poor.
IHDI adjusts HDI by considering inequality.

Simple Example

Two countries may have the same HDI value. However, if one country has large inequality between rich and poor, its IHDI will be lower. This means real development is less equally distributed.

How IHDI Works

If there is no inequality, HDI and IHDI will be the same.
If inequality increases, the value of IHDI decreases.
The gap between HDI and IHDI shows the loss due to inequality.

Loss due to inequality – reduction in human development caused by unequal access to health, education and income.

Importance of IHDI

Shows the real level of human development
Helps governments design better social policies
Highlights inequality within societies
Encourages inclusive development (development benefiting all people)

India and IHDI

India’s IHDI value is lower than its HDI value because inequality exists in income, education and health across regions, gender and social groups.

🤔 Think About This

Tap a question to reveal the answer

1. What is Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What are its achievements? In what way can the functioning and outcomes of the scheme be improved?

Introduction:
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2020 to boost domestic manufacturing and make India a global manufacturing hub. Under this scheme, companies receive financial incentives based on the increase in their production and sales.

Rationale of the PLI Scheme:

1. Boost Domestic Manufacturing: Encourage companies to produce goods within India instead of importing them.

2. Reduce Import Dependence: India depends heavily on imports in sectors like electronics and solar equipment. PLI aims to promote self-reliance.

3. Promote 'Make in India': Strengthen India’s manufacturing sector and attract global companies.

4. Increase Employment: Expansion of industries creates more job opportunities.

5. Improve Exports: Higher production capacity helps India compete in global markets.

Achievements of the Scheme:

1. Growth in Electronics Manufacturing: India has become a major producer of smartphones with companies like Apple suppliers expanding production.

2. Increase in Investments: Large investments have been attracted in sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles.

3. Job Creation: New manufacturing units have created employment opportunities.

4. Export Growth: India’s electronics exports, especially mobile phones, have increased significantly.

Measures to Improve the Scheme:

1. Strengthen Supply Chains: Develop domestic component industries to reduce import dependence.

2. Support MSMEs: Small industries should also benefit from the scheme through easier participation.

3. Improve Infrastructure: Better logistics, power supply, and industrial corridors are needed.

4. Skill Development: Training workers to meet the needs of modern manufacturing industries.

Conclusion:
The PLI scheme has played an important role in strengthening India’s manufacturing sector and attracting investments. However, improving supply chains, infrastructure, and MSME participation will ensure long-term success and sustainable industrial growth.

2. Discuss the significance of the National Quantum Mission for India's scientific future.

Introduction:
The Government of India launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023 to develop advanced technologies based on quantum science. The mission aims to promote research in areas such as quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

Significance of the National Quantum Mission:

1. Advancement in Scientific Research: The mission will support research institutions and universities to develop new knowledge in quantum science and technology.

2. Development of Quantum Computers: Quantum computers can solve complex problems much faster than classical computers. Example: They can help in drug discovery, climate modelling, and advanced scientific research.

3. Secure Communication: Quantum communication can create highly secure communication networks that are almost impossible to hack.

4. Technological Self-Reliance: Developing indigenous quantum technologies reduces dependence on foreign countries in critical technologies.

5. Strategic and National Security Benefits: Quantum technologies can improve cybersecurity, satellite communication, and defence capabilities.

6. Economic and Innovation Growth: The mission can create new startups, industries, and skilled jobs in advanced technology sectors.

Challenges:

• High cost of research and infrastructure.
• Shortage of skilled experts in quantum science.
• Need for strong collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

Conclusion:
The National Quantum Mission is an important step towards strengthening India’s scientific capabilities and technological leadership. By investing in quantum technologies, India can enhance innovation, national security, and global competitiveness in the future.

📝 Let’s Write an Exam

Q.1 Which of the following is the primary objective of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan?

Free healthcare for all citizens

Direct cash transfers to farmers

Integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure projects

Digital literacy in rural primary schools

PM Gati Shakti is a transformative approach for economic growth and sustainable development, driven by seven engines: Roads, Railways, Airports, Ports, Mass Transport, Waterways, and Logistics Infrastructure.

Q.2 India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, commissioned in 2022, is named:

INS Vikramaditya

INS Arihant

INS Vikrant

INS Vishal

INS Vikrant is the first aircraft carrier to be built in India by Cochin Shipyard, showcasing India's prowess in high-end scientific and defense manufacturing.

✍️ Answer These Questions

1. Name the agency responsible for formulating the Five-Year Plans in India (before it was replaced).

2. Which Indian city is known as the "Silicon Valley of India"?

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