This article discusses two critical topics for UPSC Mains preparation: the Reserve Bank of India's proposed 'Kill Switch' for enhancing digital payment security and the challenges faced by India's solar manufacturing ecosystem despite growth in renewable energy capacity. Both topics are relevant for GS-3 and highlight current issues in India's digital economy and energy sector.

• 01The Reserve Bank of India is considering a 'Kill Switch' mechanism to allow users to immediately halt transactions in suspected fraud cases, enhancing digital payment security.
• 02India's solar manufacturing faces challenges, including a significant reliance on imported solar cells, which limits self-sufficiency despite a growing module production capacity.
• 03The new government mandate requires only locally manufactured solar cells for solar projects, aimed at reducing import dependence and boosting domestic manufacturing.
• 04The cost of modules using domestic cells is approximately 80% higher than those using imported cells, raising concerns about competitiveness in the solar industry.
• 05High tariffs in key export markets, such as the United States, limit the growth opportunities for Indian solar manufacturers.

The proposed 'Kill Switch' could significantly enhance consumer protection in digital payments, while the solar manufacturing challenges could affect energy security and economic growth.