SNIPPETS 21 APRIL 2026

Market Intervention Scheme (MIS): Component of PM-AASHA for perishable crops (like Tomato, Onion, and Potato) not covered under MSP/PSS+ Originally MIS was launched in 1983, and later subsumed under PM-AASHA in 2024+ Implementation: By Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on request of States+ To prevent distress sales during bumper production and price fall+ Conditions: Activated when production rises ≥10% or prices fall ≥10% from previous normal levels+ Government approves potatoes procurement under MIS to prevent distress sales.

GM Mosquitoes: These are mosquitoes whose DNA has been deliberately altered using Gene Drive technology to change specific traits which either suppress the mosquito population or blocks disease transmission+ Gene Drive technology: using tools like CRISPR-Cas9, the modified gene is passed up to ~90% of offspring+ New research has confirmed that Genetically Modified (GM) mosquitoes can suppress malaria parasites from real-world infections

Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool: Ensures continuous and affordable insurance despite withdrawal of foreign insurers during conflicts+ Coverage: All maritime risks including hull, machinery, cargo, protection and indemnity (P&I) and war+ Significance: strengthens trade security and self-reliance+ Government approves ₹12,980 crore Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool to secure shipping, aligning with Maritime India Vision, 2030.