• Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) are financial institutions that provide banking services but do not hold a banking license.
• They are crucial to the financial system as they cater to the financial needs of sectors where traditional banks may not reach or provide services.
• NBFCs offer various financial services such as loans and advances, acquisition of shares/stocks/bonds/debentures/securities issued by Government or local authority, leasing, hire-purchase, insurance business, chit business, etc.
• They differ from traditional banks because they cannot accept demand deposits and do not form part of the payment and settlement system like banks do.
• However, they play a significant role in providing credit to individuals, small businesses, and the unorganised sector, thereby contributing to financial inclusion and economic growth. Examples of NBFCs include companies engaged in equipment leasing, hire-purchase finance, vehicle finance, and microfinance

3. Classification of NBFCs

NBFCs can be classified into various categories based on their activities, ownership structure, and regulatory requirements.

Here are some common classifications:

• Asset Financing NBFCs: These NBFCs primarily provide financing for the purchase of assets such as vehicles, machinery, equipment, etc.

• Investment and Credit NBFCs: These NBFCs primarily make investments in securities or extend credit facilities.

• Infrastructure Finance Companies (IFCs): These NBFCs focus on financing infrastructure projects such as roads, ports, power, telecommunications, etc.

• Housing Finance Companies (HFCs): These NBFCs specialize in providing finance for housing and related activities.

• Microfinance Institutions (MFIs): These NBFCs provide financial services, including small loans, savings, and insurance, to low-income individuals and microenterprises.

• Non-Deposit Taking NBFCs: These NBFCs do not accept deposits from the public. They rely on other sources of funding such as borrowings from banks, financial institutions, and capital markets.

• Deposit Taking NBFCs: These NBFCs accept deposits from the public and are regulated more closely, similar to banks, to ensure the safety of depositor funds.

• Systemically Important NBFCs (SI-NBFCs): These are NBFCs whose failure could potentially disrupt the financial system. They are subject to additional regulatory requirements to mitigate systemic risks.

• Core Investment Companies (CICs): These NBFCs are primarily engaged in the business of acquisition of shares and securities and hold not less than 90% of its Total Assets in the form of investment in equity shares, preference shares, bonds, debentures, debt, or loans in group companies.

• Infrastructure Debt Funds (IDFs): These NBFCs are set up to facilitate the flow of long-term debt into infrastructure projects.

• NBFCs need to obtain a Certificate of Registration (CoR) from the RBI to commence or carry on the business of non-banking financial institution.
• RBI imposes prudential regulations on NBFCs to ensure the safety and soundness of their operations. These norms cover aspects such as capital adequacy, income recognition, asset classification, provisioning, liquidity management, and exposure limits.
• NBFCs are required to adhere to a Fair Practices Code (FPC) prescribed by the RBI, which outlines the principles of transparency, fairness, and responsible lending practices.
• NBFCs are mandated to follow KYC norms while onboarding customers, including verification of identity, address, and other relevant information, to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing activities
• NBFCs are required to implement effective AML/CFT measures, including customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and reporting of suspicious transactions, to mitigate the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing.
• RBI mandates NBFCs to adhere to good corporate governance practices, including the composition of the board of directors, risk management framework, internal controls, and disclosure requirements
•  NBFCs are required to have robust risk management systems in place to identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate various risks such as credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk, and operational risk.
• NBFCs need to submit various regulatory returns and reports to the RBI periodically, providing details of their financial performance, capital adequacy, asset quality, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• RBI conducts regular inspections and supervisory reviews of NBFCs to assess their financial health, compliance with regulations, and adherence to best practices.
• RBI has the authority to issue directions, impose restrictions, and take corrective actions against NBFCs that fail to comply with regulatory requirements or pose risks to the financial system.

For Prelims: Economy For Mains: GS-III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilisation, of resources, growth, development, and employment.

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1.The RBI acts as a bankers’ bank. This would imply which of the following? (UPSC CSE 2012) 1. Other banks retain their deposits with the RBI. 2. The RBI lends funds to the commercial banks in times of need. 3. The RBI advises the commercial banks on monetary matters. Select the correct answer using the codes given below : (a) 2 and 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer (d) The central bank, also known as the apex bank, has overarching control over a nation's banking system. It holds the exclusive authority for issuing currency and regulates the money supply within the economy. As outlined in the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, the central bank fulfills several key functions: Banking functions: Acting as the banker, agent, and advisor to both the central and state governments, the Reserve Bank handles all banking operations for these entities. It extends advisory services to the government on economic and monetary policy matters and manages the public debt. Furthermore, it functions similarly to a commercial bank for other banks, including providing loans to all commercial banks nationwide. Supervisory functions: The central bank supervises and monitors other banks and governmental entities, guiding them through various economic conditions, especially during periods of inflation or deflation. Promotional functions: In addition to its regulatory role, the central bank undertakes promotional activities such as fostering connections with global economies and managing foreign reserves. These efforts contribute to representing the country's economy on the international stage. Advisory functions: Offering guidance on monetary issues to commercial banks is another essential role of the central bank, ensuring effective monetary policy implementation. 2.With reference to the Non-banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2010) They cannot engage in the acquisition of securities issued by the government. They cannot accept demand deposits like Savings Account. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only  (c) Both 1 and 2  (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: (b) Statement 1: They cannot engage in the acquisition of securities issued by the government. This statement is False. NBFCs can invest in government securities like bonds. Statement 2: They cannot accept demand deposits like Savings Account. This statement is True. NBFCs are unlike banks and cannot accept demand deposits that are withdrawable on demand. They can only accept fixed deposits with a predetermined maturity period

Source: Indianexpress

 

WORLD WILDLIFE DAY 2025

 

 

1. Context

 

March 3 is observed each year as World Wildlife Day to highlight the importance of conserving flora and fauna. The theme of World Wildlife Day for this year is ‘Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet.’

 

2. World Wildlife Day

 

• In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated March 3 as World Wildlife Day to promote awareness and celebrate efforts toward conserving the world’s wild flora and fauna. This date was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973.

• CITES is a crucial international treaty among governments that plays a key role in wildlife conservation. Its main aim is to regulate global trade in wild plants and animals to ensure their survival and prevent overexploitation. By overseeing this trade, CITES helps protect endangered species from extinction.

• A country or regional economic organization that has ratified the Convention is referred to as a Party to CITES. At present, there are 185 Parties. The CITES Secretariat, which is responsible for its administration, operates under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

• The Convention’s highest decision-making body, the Conference of the Parties (CoP), consists of all member states and makes consensus-based decisions regarding its implementation

 

3. How does CITES work?

 

CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) works by regulating and monitoring the international trade of wildlife and plant species to ensure that it does not threaten their survival. It operates through a system of permits and certificates that control trade based on a species’ level of risk

 

Classification of Species (Appendices I, II, III)

CITES categorizes species into three appendices based on their conservation status:

• Appendix I: Includes species that are most endangered and at high risk of extinction. Trade is generally prohibited, except under exceptional circumstances (e.g., for scientific research).
• Appendix II: Covers species that are not currently endangered but could become so if trade is not controlled. Trade is allowed but strictly regulated through permits.
• Appendix III: Lists species that a specific country has requested help in regulating. Trade requires permits but is less restricted than Appendix I and II species

 

4. Species which made into news

 

 

Indian Star Tortoise

• The Indian star tortoise is classified under Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, granting it the highest level of legal protection. Since 2016, it has also been designated as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
• Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, illegal trade of this species carries a prison sentence of three to seven years and a minimum fine of ₹25,000.
• The species is highly sought after as a pet, both within India and internationally, leading to increased trafficking.

Pangolins

• There are eight pangolin species globally, with four in Africa and four in Asia. India is home to two species: the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) and the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla). The Indian pangolin is distributed across Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
• In India, the Indian pangolin has a widespread presence and has been documented in several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, among others.
• Both Indian and Chinese pangolins are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Additionally, all pangolin species were placed in CITES Appendix I in 2017.
• According to the IUCN Red List, the Chinese pangolin is ‘Critically Endangered’, while the Indian pangolin is classified as ‘Endangered’.

Lion (Panthera leo)

• Lions, native to Africa and Asia, are highly social felines that live in prides and prefer open forest habitats such as scrublands. Male lions are easily recognizable by their distinctive mane.
• Project Lion, introduced in August 2020, aims to ensure the long-term conservation of Asiatic lions. Additionally, World Lion Day is observed annually on August 10 to spread awareness about their declining population and the urgency of conservation efforts.
• Lions are classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List and are included in Schedule I of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The species is also listed under Appendix II of CITES, while the Asiatic lion subspecies (Panthera leo persica) is included in Appendix I.

One-Horned Rhinoceros

• The Indian rhinoceros, commonly referred to as the one-horned rhinoceros, is primarily found in the Brahmaputra valley, parts of North Bengal, and some regions of southern Nepal.
• Poaching remains a significant threat, driven by the belief in the medicinal properties of its horn, along with conflicts arising from its classification as an agricultural pest.
• The species also faces habitat challenges due to frequent flooding, forcing them to seek higher ground beyond protected areas, which increases human-wildlife conflict.
• The Indian rhinoceros is classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List and is listed under CITES Appendix I. Other rhinoceros species, including the black, Javan, and Sumatran rhinos, are categorized as ‘Critically Endangered’ by the IUCN.

Tiger (Panthera tigris)

• According to the All India Tiger Estimation 2022 (fifth cycle summary report), India is home to approximately 3,167 tigers, accounting for over 70% of the global wild tiger population.
• Project Tiger, a centrally sponsored initiative, was launched in 1973 with the goal of preserving the tiger population. The program initially covered nine reserves and has since expanded.
• The tiger is classified as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List and is granted the highest level of protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• India collaborates with neighboring countries such as Bangladesh to strengthen transboundary tiger conservation, particularly in the Sundarbans region

 

For Prelims: CITES, IUCN Red List, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Project Tiger   For Mains: GS III - Environment & Ecology

 

 

Source: Indianexpress

 

SHAMBHAJI MAHARAJ (CHHAAVA)

 

 

1. Context

 

Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s historical drama Chhaava hit theatres on February 14, 2025, and has been a box office sensation ever since. The movie is an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel of the same name

 

2. Shambaji Maharaj

 

• Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of the renowned Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji, ascended the throne as the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom following his father's demise. His reign, though brief at nine years, was marked by exceptional courage and unwavering patriotism. He remains a revered figure, especially in Maharashtra, for choosing martyrdom over conversion.

• From 1681 to 1689, his rule was dominated by conflicts with the Mughal Empire, the Siddi of Janjira, the Wadiyars of Mysore, and the Portuguese Empire, shaping the course of Maratha resistance.

• One of Sambhaji Maharaj's most notable military campaigns was the attack on Burhanpur, a vital Mughal trade hub in present-day Madhya Pradesh. Aware of Aurangzeb’s ambitions to expand into the Deccan, Sambhaji launched a strategic offensive that dealt a significant setback to the Mughals.

• Between 1682 and 1688, several battles were fought between the Marathas and the Mughals. Despite Mughal attempts to seize Maratha-held forts, their efforts were largely unsuccessful

 

3. Battle of Wai

 

• During the autumn of 1687, the Mughal and Maratha armies clashed in the dense forests near Wai and Mahabaleshwar in the Deccan region of India.

• In the Battle of Wai, Hambirrao Mohite, the Maratha commander-in-chief and a key ally of Sambhaji Maharaj, was killed. Although the Marathas emerged victorious, Mohite’s death proved to be a severe setback. His loss led to widespread desertion among Sambhaji’s troops, weakening his position. Eventually, in January 1689, Sambhaji was captured by the Mughal forces.

• Historical records differ on the exact sequence of events that followed, but most accounts agree that Sambhaji was given the choice to surrender his forts, hand over his treasures, and convert to Islam. Refusing to comply, he faced brutal torture and execution

 

4. Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight) 

 

The Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight) was a body of eight key ministers entrusted with the governance of the Maratha Kingdom. This administrative system was introduced by Chhatrapati Shivaji and included the following officials:

• Peshwa – The Prime Minister, responsible for overseeing the overall administration.
• Amatya – The Finance Minister, tasked with managing the empire’s finances and accounts.
• Shurunavis – The Secretary, responsible for drafting royal decrees and official documents.
• Mantri – The Interior Minister, overseeing internal administration and intelligence.
• Sari-i-Naubat / Senapati – The Commander-in-Chief, leading military operations and defense strategies.
• Sumant – The Foreign Minister, handling diplomatic relations with other rulers.
• Nyay Adhyaksh – The Chief Justice, responsible for judicial matters, including civil and criminal cases.
• Panditrao – The High Priest, overseeing religious affairs and spiritual guidance.

Additionally, the Chitnis served as the Personal Secretary to the Chhatrapati, functioning as a senior official responsible for documentation and often acting as the Peshwa’s deputy in their absence

 

5. Battles fought by Marathas

 

• Battle of Pratapgarh (1659) – A conflict between the Marathas and the Adilshahi forces.
• Battle of Kolhapur (1659) – A battle fought between Chhatrapati Shivaji and the Adilshahi army.
• Battle of Surat (1664) – A confrontation between Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj and Inayat Khan, a Mughal commander.
• Battle of Purandar (1665) – A war between the Marathas and the Mughal Empire.
• Battle of Salher (1672) – A significant battle fought between the Maratha Empire and the Mughals.
• Battle of Sangamner (1679) – The last battle led by Shivaji, fought between the Mughal and Maratha forces.
• First Anglo-Maratha War (1775–82) – Ended with the Treaty of Salbai in 1782.
• Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803–05) – Involved major agreements, including:
  • Treaty of Bassein (1802) – Between Peshwa Baji Rao II and the British East India Company.
  • Treaty of Deogaon (1803) – Between Raghuji Bhonsle II of Nagpur and Sir Arthur Wellesley of the British East India Company.
• Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817–19) – Led to several key treaties:
  • Treaty of Poona – Signed with the Peshwa.
  • Treaty of Gwalior – Signed with Sindhia.
  • Treaty of Mandasor – Signed with Holkar

 

 

For Prelims: Anglo Maratha Wars, Peshwas, British East India Company

 

Previous Year Questions   1.Among the Ashtapradhans of Shivaji, who among the following did not hold any military commands besides civil duties? ( Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Examination, 2025) 1. Peshwa 2. Amatya 3. Sumanta 4. Pandit Rao Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 4 only Answer (d) Among the Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight) of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Pandit Rao was the High Priest responsible for religious and spiritual affairs. Unlike some other ministers who had both civil and military responsibilities, Pandit Rao did not hold any military command. Peshwa (Prime Minister) – Primarily an administrative head but could also be involved in military planning. Amatya (Finance Minister) – Managed financial affairs but had some influence in administrative and military matters. Sumant (Foreign Minister) – Handled diplomatic relations, often assisting in military alliances. Pandit Rao (High Priest) – Solely managed religious and ethical matters, with no military role. Thus, only Pandit Rao among the given options did not hold any military command 2.Chronologically arrange the following treaties/conventions signed between the Marathas and the British (starting with the earliest): (CDS Exam (I) 2021) 1. Treaty of Salbai 2. Treaty of Purandar 3. Convention of Wadgaon 4. Treaty of Surat Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 4-2-3-1 (b) 4-3-2-1 (c) 1-3-2-4 (d) 1-2-3-4 Answer (a) 4 - 2 - 3 - 1 Treaty of Surat (1775) – Signed between Raghunathrao (Raghoba) and the British East India Company (Bombay Government). Raghunathrao sought British support in his claim to the Peshwa position, leading to the First Anglo-Maratha War. Treaty of Purandar (1776) – Signed between the Pune-based Maratha leadership and the British (Calcutta Council), canceling the Treaty of Surat. It denied Raghunathrao any claim to the Peshwa throne but allowed him a pension. Convention of Wadgaon (1779) – Signed after the British defeat at the Battle of Wadgaon during the First Anglo-Maratha War. The British were forced to surrender and withdraw. Treaty of Salbai (1782) – This treaty ended the First Anglo-Maratha War, restoring the pre-war status quo and granting peace between the Marathas and the British for nearly two decades

Source: Indianexpress

 

THREE LANGUAGE POLICY

 

 

1. Context

 

The Union Government has withheld ₹2,152 crore in funds due to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha scheme for refusing to join the Prime Minister Schools for Rising India (PMSHRI) initiative.

 

2. What is a three language policy?

 

• The NEP 2020 continues with the three-language formula, originally introduced in the 1968 NEP. However, a key distinction is that while the earlier policy mandated Hindi as a compulsory language nationwide, NEP 2020 adopts a more flexible approach.
• Under the 1968 policy, Hindi-speaking states were required to teach Hindi, English, and a modern Indian language—preferably one from southern India—whereas non-Hindi-speaking states had to include their regional language, Hindi, and English in their curriculum.
• In contrast, the NEP 2020 does not impose any particular language on states. Instead, it allows states, regions, and students to choose their three languages, provided that at least two of them are Indian languages.
• This implies that while students must learn their state’s language, the additional Indian language does not have to be Hindi. The policy also highlights the importance of bilingual education, particularly in the home language or mother tongue alongside English.
• Additionally, Sanskrit is given notable emphasis as an optional choice within the three-language framework

3.Significance of the Three-Language Formula

 

The Three-Language Formula is an educational policy in India designed to promote multilingualism and linguistic harmony in a country with immense linguistic diversity. It was first proposed by the Kothari Commission in 1968 and has since been adopted by many states, with variations based on regional needs. The formula aims to balance the learning of regional, national, and international languages to foster unity, cultural preservation, and global competitiveness.

Key Objectives of the Three-Language Formula:

• Promote National Integration:

  • By encouraging the study of Hindi (the official language of the Union) and English (an associate official language), the formula seeks to bridge communication gaps between states and promote national unity.

  • It also respects regional languages, ensuring that local cultures and identities are preserved.

• Preserve Linguistic Diversity:

  • India is home to hundreds of languages and dialects. The formula ensures that students learn their mother tongue or regional language, helping to sustain linguistic heritage.

• Enhance Global Competence:

  • The inclusion of English, a global lingua franca, prepares students for higher education and professional opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.

• Facilitate Communication:

  • The formula aims to equip students with proficiency in multiple languages, enabling them to communicate effectively across different regions and cultures within India.

Structure of the Three-Language Formula:

• First Language: The mother tongue or regional language of the state.

• Second Language: Hindi (in non-Hindi-speaking states) or another Indian language (in Hindi-speaking states).

• Third Language: English or a modern Indian language (depending on the state's policy)

 

 

4. Challenges

 

• Tamil Nadu has historically opposed the imposition of Hindi. In 1937, when the C. Rajagopalachari-led government in Madras sought to make Hindi a compulsory subject in secondary schools, the Justice Party strongly resisted the move.
• During the protests, two young activists, Thalamuthu and Natarajan, lost their lives and became symbols of the anti-Hindi movement. Following widespread opposition, Rajaji resigned, and the British administration repealed the order.
• In 1965, as the deadline for making Hindi the sole official language of India approached, large-scale protests erupted in Tamil Nadu, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 people due to police action or self-immolation.
• The issue resurfaced when Parliament passed the Official Languages (Amendment) Act, 1967, and the Official Language Resolution, 1968, which mandated Hindi instruction under the three-language formula.
• In response, the C.N. Annadurai-led DMK government passed a resolution in January 1968, advocating for the abolition of the three-language policy and the removal of Hindi from Tamil Nadu's school curriculum.
• Since then, the state has consistently adhered to a two-language system, offering instruction only in Tamil and English. Both the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK have steadfastly resisted any attempts to modify this approach. In 2019, widespread opposition led the Kasturirangan Committee to drop the mandatory Hindi clause from the draft National Education Policy (NEP

 

5.Why is the three-language policy seen as an attempt to impose Hindi?

 

 

• Political parties and activists in Tamil Nadu perceive the three-language policy as a covert attempt to introduce Hindi under the guise of linguistic diversity. They argue that, in reality, implementing this policy would inevitably result in Hindi being taught, as there are limited resources available for recruiting teachers and developing learning materials for other languages.
• Additionally, the Union Government and key BJP leaders have consistently advocated for the expansion of Hindi. In 2019, the Union Budget allocated ₹50 crore for hiring Hindi teachers in non-Hindi-speaking states.
• Critics argue that the Centre’s actions contradict its stated commitment to promoting regional languages, pointing to the insufficient recruitment of regional language teachers in Kendriya Vidyalayas and the lack of efforts to introduce South Indian languages in schools north of the Vindhyas

 

6. Way Forward

 

The most effective way forward is through meaningful dialogue and a balanced compromise between the Centre and the State, particularly on education—a subject that was moved to the Concurrent List during the Emergency. Tamil Nadu, which has adhered to its two-language policy for decades, has consistently achieved higher performance than many other states in crucial areas like Gross Enrolment Ratio and reducing school dropout rates. Disputes over introducing a third language should not be allowed to hinder funding for Samagra Shiksha, a comprehensive education programme

 

 

 

For Prelims: NEP 2020, National Curriculum Framework, Sustainable Development Goals, University Grants Commission, Kothari Commission, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan,  For Mains:  1. Discuss the key provisions and objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. How does it aim to transform the Indian education system, and what are its implications for inclusive development? (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2018) 1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the minimum qualification laid down by the State Council of Teacher Education concerned. 2. As per the RTE Act, for teaching primary classes, a candidate is required to pass a Teacher Eligibility Test conducted in accordance with the National Council of Teacher Education guidelines. 3. In India, more than 90% of teacher education institutions are directly under the State Governments. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2         (b) 2 only            (c) 1 and 3            (d) 3 only Answer: B   2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2016) 1. The Sustainable Development Goals were first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank called the 'Club of Rome'. 2. The Sustainable Development Goals have to be achieved by 2030. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A.1 only       B. 2 only          C.  Both 1 and 2            D. Neither 1 nor 2   Answer: B   3. The objective(s) of Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyaan is/are: (UKSSSC Forest Guard 2021)  A. To provide quality based education to all children from 14 to 18 years B. Universal standstill till the year 2020 C. To provide residential school for the students of remote areas D. All of the above   Answer: D

 

Source: The Hindu