Friday, 3 January 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements :

The correct answer is (b) 2 only. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (d) न तो 1, न ही 2. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: उच्चतम न्यायालय के न्यायाधीश के रूप में किसे नियुक्त किया जा सकता है?

The correct answer is (a) किसी अधिवक्ता को, जिसने किसी उच्च न्यायालय में कम-से-कम दस वर्ष तक विधि व्यवसाय किया हो. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2021.

Q: Which one of the following is the correct sequence in the descending order of precedence in the warrant of precedence?

The correct answer is (a) Attorney General of India - Judges of the Supreme Court - Members of Parliament - Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2004.

Q: In India, inflation is measured by the

The correct answer is (a) Wholesale Price Index Number. This question appeared in GS1 1997.

Q: The new series of Wholesale Price Index (WPI) released by the Government of India is with reference to the base prices of

The correct answer is (a) 1981-82. This question appeared in GS1 2001.

Q: The Union Budget for which of the following years announced the issue of Sovereign Green Bonds to reduce the carbon intensity of the economy?

The correct answer is (a) 2022-23. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025.

Q: Which of the following statements regarding ‘Green Climate Fund’ is/are correct?

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2015.

Q: The founders of the Paramhansa Mandali founded in Maharashtra believed in which one of the following?

The correct answer is (c) Forbidding widow remarriage. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: Recently the Government of India entered into an agreement for a lithium exploration and mining project with which one among the following countries?

The correct answer is (a) Brazil. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2024.

20 topicsGS-1: 5GS-2: 7GS-3: 8

0/20 done

GS-2Polity

1.CAG Open Data Kit Audit Platform (CAG Audit Tech)

Times of IndiaOpen Data Kit · CAG toolkit · public spending

What & Where

Definition: CAG’s Open Data Kit–based digital platform for designing, collecting, managing audit data on govt schemes

Process: Real-time beneficiary surveys, encrypted transfer to CAG’s Own Integrated Operating System (OIOS) for evidence-grade analysis

Geography: Nationwide rollout for audits of central / state programmes, including premier institutions like AIIMS

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Open-source platform lowers vendor lock-in, boosts scalability for diverse government schemes
Mobile-friendly forms enable offline capture, automatic sync when connectivity resumes
Encryption plus role-based access preserves data integrity during audits

Governance Dimension

Citizen-centric data empowers evidence-based audit observations, reducing discretion
Toolkit aligns with SDG16 targets on strong institutions & transparency
Findings can trigger mid-course corrections, strengthening fiscal accountability

Audit Workflow

Design phase: auditors craft survey on web console; field teams download via app
Collection phase: GPS-tagged, time-stamped responses feed directly into OIOS dashboards
Reporting phase: analytics highlight red flags for CAG’s compliance, performance, efficiency audits

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launching body	Comptroller and Auditor General of India
Core technology	Open Data Kit (ODK) platform
Backend integration	CAG’s Own Integrated Operating System (OIOS)
Data security	End-to-end encryption
Survey languages	Multi-language support
Primary aim	Transparency & accountability in public spending
Key output	Real-time beneficiary feedback as audit evidence
Example use case	Performance review of AIIMS
User interface	No-code, form-builder style
Beneficiary role	Identifies scheme delivery gaps

GS-2Polity

2.Decline of Private Members' Bills (Parliamentary Procedure)

The HinduPrivate Members' Bills · 17th Lok Sabha · parliament time

Illustration for Decline of Private Members' Bills (Parliamentary Procedure)

What & Where

Definition Private Members' Bills are legislative proposals by non-minister MPs in Indian Parliament

Process One-month notice then Friday introduction debate vote or withdrawal in Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha

Venue Private Members’ Business fixed post-lunch Friday in both Houses limiting discussion opportunities

Quick Facts for MCQs

Parliamentary Procedure

Notice Minimum one month then ballot decides listed bills
Debate Speaker or Chairman calls mover opening speech minister reply optional
Vote House may adopt reject or allow withdrawal absence leads to lapse

Historical Trend

Passages Zero private members' bills enacted after 1970 despite 3000+ introductions
Highlight Rights of Transgender Persons Bill 2014 first RS approval in 45 years yet lapsed
Example 1966 Kamath constitutional amendment showcased individual initiative on highest office

Decline Drivers

Scheduling Friday slot coincides with MPs leaving for constituencies lowering attendance
Allocation 17th Lok Sabha devoted barely 0.7 % of total hours to this business
Participation Many movers absent during listing signalling low seriousness

Revival Suggestions

Reschedule Midweek slot proposed for greater quorum and deliberation
Safeguard Speakers urged to protect individual legislative space within constitutional framework
Incentivise Party whips can encourage movers to remain present and pursue debate

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Introduced by	Any MP not holding ministerial office
Notice period	Minimum 1 month to House Secretariat
Discussion slot	Friday after 1 pm
Bills passed into law	14 between 1952-1970
17th Lok Sabha time	9.08 hours (LS)
17th Rajya Sabha time	27.01 hours
18th LS first two sessions	0.15 hours
18th RS first two sessions	0.62 hours
Latest RS-cleared Bill	Rights of Transgender Persons Bill 2014 (lapsed)
Historic example	H V Kamath Bill 1966 on PM eligibility

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements :

GS1 2017PYQ 2

भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Polity

3.Supreme Court Senior Advocates Designation (Senior Advocate Rules)

Indian ExpressSenior Advocates · Supreme Court · designation criteria

What & Where

Senior Advocate = distinct class of lawyers designated by Supreme Court/High Courts of India after ≥10 yrs Bar practice.

Applies nationwide; Supreme Court uses Advocates-on-Record (AoR) to brief them, AoR only ones who can file documents.

116 fresh designations in Supreme Court during 2024 triggered scrutiny of selection rigour.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Constitution Article 145, Supreme Court rules empower court to frame criteria for Senior Advocate designation.
2017 guidelines mandate secretariat, evaluation committee, interview for transparency & inclusivity.

Professional Hierarchy

Advocate-on-Record files, appears; other advocates may argue but lack filing rights; Seniors argue only, no paperwork.
State Bar Council enrolment prerequisite before any Supreme Court appearance category.

Operational Restrictions

Prohibited-activity rule ensures Seniors focus on pure law points, avoiding solicitor-type functions.
Court may suspend or revoke Senior designation upon professional misconduct findings.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Minimum practice for designation	10 years
Authority conferring title	Supreme Court or any High Court
Key PIL prompting reform	Indira Jaising v. Supreme Court of India (2017)
Reform outcome	Objective, points-based assessment of judgments, publications, experience
Tasks barred to Seniors	Direct client instructions, drafting pleadings/affidavits, evidence advice
Must be briefed through	Advocate-on-Record (AoR)
High-stakes matters often argued	Death penalty, company liquidation, child custody, bail
New Seniors added in SC, 2024	116

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2021PYQ 1

उच्चतम न्यायालय के न्यायाधीश के रूप में किसे नियुक्त किया जा सकता है?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2004PYQ 2

Which one of the following is the correct sequence in the descending order of precedence in the warrant of precedence?

GS-3Economy

4.Ramesh Chand Committee on WPI Reform (Price Index Revision)

The HinduRamesh Chand Committee · Wholesale Price Index · Producers’ Price Index

Illustration for Ramesh Chand Committee on WPI Reform (Price Index Revision)

What & Where

Wholesale Price Index: tracks bulk price movement of 697 goods at first wholesale transaction level in India

Producer Price Index: gauges average prices received by domestic producers for goods and services; includes outputs and inputs

Core geography: compiled nationally by Office of Economic Adviser, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Index Features

Compilation: monthly release by Office of Economic Adviser
Purpose: monitor supply-demand pressures and complement GDP deflators
Limitation: WPI omits services, causing partial inflation picture

Institutional Setup

Committee mandate: revise WPI basket and study shift toward PPI
Framework reference: System of National Accounts guidelines for producer prices
Outcome expectation: internationally comparable inflation metric

Advantages of PPI

Perspective: producer-centric, capturing price shifts before retail stage
Scope: includes goods and services, both domestic sales and exports
Global status: many nations replaced WPI with PPI for policy calibration

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Expert panel size	18 members
Panel head	Ramesh Chand, NITI Aayog
Current WPI base year	2011-12
Proposed new base year	2022-23
Items covered	697 goods
Primary articles	117
Fuel and power items	16
Manufactured products	564
Services coverage in WPI	Excluded
Services coverage in PPI	Included

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 1997PYQ 1

In India, inflation is measured by the

GS1 2001PYQ 2

The new series of Wholesale Price Index (WPI) released by the Government of India is with reference to the base prices of

GS-3Economy

5.Green Banks for Climate Finance (Climate Finance Banking)

Down to EarthGreen Bank · clean energy · green bonds

Illustration for Green Banks for Climate Finance (Climate Finance Banking)

What & Where

Green Banks: mission-driven financial entities that channel concessional, revolving funds into proven clean-energy & climate-adaptation projects.

Proposed Indian Green Bank: domestic institution to mobilise, retain and recycle climate finance for Net-Zero 2070.

Geographic focus: India/Global South, where commercial credit for decarbonisation is scarce and expensive.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Affordable-credit gap: commercial bank rates inflate LCOE of renewables, stalling adoption in MSME & agri sectors.
Capital leverage: every ₹1 public seed can crowd-in ₹3-₹5 private through risk-sharing & blended finance.
Local value addition: funds stay domestic, stimulating clean-tech jobs and import substitution.

Operational Model

Capital mobilisation: layered funding—government equity base, green bonds for scale, carbon-cess inflows for continuity.
Project selection: only proven tech (rooftop PV, EV fleets, industrial efficiency) to maintain predictable cashflows.
Circular reinvestment: repayments + interest form a revolving corpus, minimising perpetual budgetary support.

Challenges & Risks

Regulatory vacuum: no dedicated statute; overlaps with RBI, SEBI, NABARD mandates.
Default exposure: policy volatility, DISCOM payment delays may impair loan books.
Awareness deficit: investors, borrowers unfamiliar with green-finance instruments, limiting demand pull.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Core mandate	Accelerate clean-energy deployment & climate resilience
Typical capital sources	Union grants, environmental cesses, sovereign/municipal green bonds
Lending pattern	Concessional loans to projects with assured revenue streams
Priority borrowers	Farmers, MSMEs, local DISCOMs, rooftop-solar & efficiency projects
Financial model	Recycle repaid principal into fresh green projects (“evergreen” fund)
India’s Net-Zero target year	2070
Major hurdles	High start-up capital, regulatory gaps, default risks, low public awareness

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

The Union Budget for which of the following years announced the issue of Sovereign Green Bonds to reduce the carbon intensity of the economy?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2015PYQ 2

Which of the following statements regarding ‘Green Climate Fund’ is/are correct?

GS-3Economy

6.NPCI Extends UPI Market Cap Deadline (Digital Payments Regulation)

LiveMintNPCI · UPI · transaction cap

What & Where

UPI 30 % transaction-share cap targets each Third-Party App Provider (TPAP) across India.

NPCI, set up by RBI & IBA under Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007, issues guidelines.

TPAPs (e.g., PhonePe, Google Pay) deliver app-based UPI services via sponsor banks, not as banks.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Extension: Deadline shifted from 31 Dec 2024 to 31 Dec 2026 for cap compliance.
Compliance: TPAPs breaching cap must stop onboarding new users until share reduces.
Phasing: Existing violators granted two-year staggered reduction plan.

Tech & Schemes

Calculation: 30 % share based on average transaction volume of trailing three months.
Scope: Cap covers all UPI payments including person-to-merchant and person-to-person.
Oversight: NPCI monitors volumes using real-time settlement data.

Economic Angle

Concentration: PhonePe and Google Pay currently control over 80 % UPI volume, heightening systemic risk.
Objective: Cap aims diversified market, reduced single-point failure probability.
Market Impact: Smaller TPAPs expected increased onboarding opportunity post-cap.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
New compliance deadline	31 December 2026
Cap on TPAP UPI volume	30 %
Measurement basis	Rolling 3-month average transaction volume
Cap announcement	November 2020
Previous extension granted	December 2022
Combined PhonePe + Google Pay share	>80 % of UPI transactions
Founding bodies of NPCI	RBI & Indian Banks’ Association
Governing legislation	Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007

GS-1History

7.Mubarak Manzil Heritage Demolition (Mughal Architecture)

Times of IndiaMubarak Manzil · Aurangzeb · Agra

Illustration for Mubarak Manzil Heritage Demolition (Mughal Architecture)

What & Where

Mubarak Manzil (Aurangzeb’s Haveli): 17th-century Mughal riverside palace, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Built after 1658 Battle of Samugarh; later British customs house, salt office, railway depot.

Currently a state-protected heritage site; large portions illegally demolished.

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Usage

Residence phase: Housed imperial family pre-move to Red Fort Delhi.
Colonial phase: Adapted for revenue collection, reflecting British economic priorities.
Railway phase: Integrated into East Indian Railway logistics network.

Architectural Features

Red-sandstone plinth with multi-foil arches and corner minarets.
British add-ons: flat roofs, utilitarian interior partitions.
1871 Carlyle report praised intricate floral and geometric carvings.

Heritage & Legal

Protected-monument tag mandates 100 m prohibited, 200 m regulated zones.
Demolition allegedly okayed by municipal staff despite ASI correspondence.
FIR filed; state archaeology ordering restoration & accountability probe.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Original builder	Emperor Aurangzeb
Initial residents	Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb
Victory commemorated	Battle of Samugarh, 1658
Alternate name	Mubarak Manzil (“Auspicious Mansion”)
City & river	Agra, bank of Yamuna
Base material	Red sandstone
Style blend	Mughal arches & minarets + later British elements
19th-c. surveyor	Archibald Carlyle, 1871
Colonial uses	Customs house, salt office
Post-1850s use	East Indian Railway goods depot
Recent event	2023-24 partial demolition by private builder
Legal status	Listed under U.P. Ancient & Historical Monuments Act

GS-1History

8.Sree Narayana Guru Reforms Legacy (Kerala Social Reform)

ITSree Narayana Guru · SNDP Yogam · Aruvippuram

Illustration for Sree Narayana Guru Reforms Legacy (Kerala Social Reform)

What & Where

Social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, born 22 Aug 1856 at Chempazhanthy near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Iconic 1888 Aruvippuram Shivalinga consecration challenged caste‐based temple restrictions in Travancore

Movement centred in Kerala’s Ezhava community, later radiating through SNDP Yogam networks

Quick Facts for MCQs

Social Reform Agenda

Equality drive covered education, government jobs, temple entry for Ezhavas
Slogan One caste One religion One god promoted interfaith harmony without conversions
Ahimsa stance opposed animal sacrifice and all violence

Philosophy & Literature

Hymns such as Atmopadesa Satakam propagated self-knowledge and universal brotherhood
Writings stressed moral discipline and spiritual uplift over ritual formalism
Teachings integrated into Kerala renaissance and modern curricula

Organisational Initiatives

SNDP Yogam 1903 institutionalised caste reform via schools, temples, cooperatives
Leadership mobilised Ezhava community into a socio-economic power bloc
Influence extended to Vaikom and Guruvayur temple-entry campaigns

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birthplace	Chempazhanthy, Thiruvananthapuram
Birthdate	22 August 1856
Community	Ezhava (Avarna)
Landmark act	Aruvippuram Shivalinga installation 1888
Key organisation	Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam
Organisation year	1903
Famous slogan	One Caste One Religion One God for All
Major literary work	Atmopadesa Satakam

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

The founders of the Paramhansa Mandali founded in Maharashtra believed in which one of the following?

GS-1History

9.Soviet Union Disintegration 1991 (USSR Collapse)

Indian ExpressSoviet Union · 1991 dissolution · Russian Revolution

Illustration for Soviet Union Disintegration 1991 (USSR Collapse)

What & Where

USSR; socialist federation of 15 republics; existed 1922-1991, capital Moscow, ruled by Communist Party.

Formed after 1917 Russian Revolutions & civil war; officially proclaimed 30 Dec 1922.

Dissolved 25 Dec 1991 when red flag lowered at Kremlin; successor states emerged, chiefly Russian Federation.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Evolution

Revolution; February 1917 monarchy ends, October 1917 Bolsheviks seize power, Red Army wins civil war 1922.
Leadership phases; Stalin centralization, Khrushchev de-Stalinization, Brezhnev stagnation, Gorbachev reforms.
Baltic states annexed 1940 under Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact; independence restored 1991.

Economic Factors

Stagnation; 1970s heavy military spend, consumer goods shortages, tech lag versus West.
Oil price volatility and command-economy rigidity deepened fiscal strain.
IMF-style shock therapy later guided transition in ex-Soviet economies.

Political Reforms & Nationalism

Glasnost opened media, exposed past abuses; Perestroika introduced limited market mechanisms.
1990 multi-party elections eroded CPSU monopoly; republics declared sovereignty, e.g., Lithuania March 1990.
Yeltsin promoted Russian supremacy, hastening union’s legal dissolution via Belavezha Accords.

Global Impact

Cold War ends; US becomes lone superpower; NATO enlarges to Poland, Baltic trio, others.
Power vacuum enables China, India, EU to pursue multipolar agendas.
Legacy disputes fuel conflicts: Crimea 2014, Nagorno-Karabakh, Kosovo-Serbia tensions.

India Angle

1991 balance-of-payments crisis spurred Liberalisation, Look/Act East & Act West outreach.
Defence ties recalibrated; joint BrahMos, diversification toward US, France, Israel.
Continued space, nuclear collaboration; membership in SCO, BRICS preserves strategic autonomy.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First Soviet leader	V. I. Lenin (1922-24)
Last Soviet leader	M. S. Gorbachev (1985-91)
Core reforms	Glasnost + Perestroika (1986 onwards)
Peak republic count	15 Union Republics
Key military bloc	Warsaw Pact (1955-91)
Costly foreign war	Afghanistan, 1979-89
USSR collapse trigger date	25 Dec 1991

GS-1MappingQuick Bite

10.Mount Kanlaon Stratovolcano Eruption (Pacific Ring Volcano)

Business StandardMount Kanlaon · Philippines · stratovolcano

Illustration for Mount Kanlaon Stratovolcano Eruption (Pacific Ring Volcano)

What & Where

Volcano weak crustal point expelling magma, gases, ash; an endogenic geomorphic process

Mount Kanlaon active 2,435 m stratovolcano on Negros Island, central Philippines

Pacific Ring of Fire 40,000 km circum-Pacific seismic belt along Pacific, Philippine, Nazca, other plates

Quick Facts for MCQs

Volcanology Basics

Endogenic-process magma ascent forms cones through successive eruptions
Stratovolcano steep, layered lava-ash structure common in subduction zones
Eruptive products include lava flows, pyroclastics, volcanic gases, steam

Tectonic Setting

Subduction of dense Pacific Plate under lighter margins drives Ring of Fire volcanism
Philippine Sea Plate interactions produce frequent quakes and eruptions around Kanlaon
Multiple microplates enhance tectonic complexity in Western Pacific

Disaster Risk

Philippines among world’s most disaster-prone owing to combined volcanic, seismic, typhoon hazards
Ashfall impacts aviation, agriculture, water quality across Negros communities
Early warning, evacuation plans vital for populations near active cones

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Volcano name	Mount Kanlaon
Height	2,435 m
Volcano type	Stratovolcano
Island & province	Negros, north-central
Country	Philippines
Latest activity	Ash-gas eruption Jan 2025
Tectonic belt	Pacific Ring of Fire
Ring of Fire length	~40,000 km
Key interacting plates	Pacific, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Nazca, North American, Indian-Australian, Philippine

GS-3Species

11.Brazilian Velvet Ant Ultrablack Trait (Ultrablack Insect)

The HinduBrazilian velvet ant · Traumatomutilla bifurca · ultrablack

Illustration for Brazilian Velvet Ant Ultrablack Trait (Ultrablack Insect)

What & Where

Definition: Brazilian velvet ant (Traumatomutilla bifurca) is a wasp, family Mutillidae, order Hymenoptera

Geography: Native to tropical savanna and dry shrub deserts of South America

Distinction: Females possess ultrablack body parts absorbing > 99.5 % visible light

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biological Traits

Nanostructures: densely packed cuticular ridges scatter photons internally, yielding near-total absorption
Sexual dimorphism: males share pattern yet reflect more light, lacking equivalent nano-architecture
Mimicry: velvet-like setae and colour pattern imitate ants, discouraging predators

Evolutionary Insight

Convergence: comparable ultrablack surfaces evolved in birds-of-paradise, deep-sea fish, certain butterflies
Selective pressure: predator avoidance in sun-exposed habitats favours extreme light-absorbent exoskeletons

Tech & Applications

Stealth tech: bio-inspired coatings for defence optics and space telescopes require ultralow reflectance
Solar energy: nanostructure templates enhance panel efficiency by maximising photon capture

Ecological Role

Pollination: adults visit flowers, facilitating reproduction in arid ecosystems
Predator deterrence: potent sting plus camouflage stabilises niche within local food webs

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Order	Hymenoptera
Family	Mutillidae
Studied species	Traumatomutilla bifurca
Visible-light absorption	> 99.5 %
Ultrablack sex	Female only
Primary habitats	Tropical savanna; dry shrub deserts
Adaptive functions	Camouflage; thermoregulation; mate signalling
Nanostructure location	Exoskeleton micro-traps

GS-3S&T

12.Glutathione-Responsive Injectable Hydrogel Therapy (Targeted Drug Delivery)

The Hinduinjectable hydrogel · IIT Guwahati · Bose Institute

What & Where

Injectable hydrogel: water-based polymer network for site-specific anti-cancer drug release

Key process: responds to high glutathione (GSH) in tumour microenvironment, sparing healthy cells

Developed in India by IIT-Guwahati & Bose Institute, Kolkata; pre-clinical focus on breast cancer

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Injectable-format enables minimally invasive outpatient administration
Insoluble network anchors gel at tumour, preventing systemic dispersion
Tissue-mimicking matrix supports high biocompatibility and regulatory acceptance

Health Impact

Localised release lowers cardiotoxicity, nausea, alopecia from systemic drugs
Breast-tumour specificity boosts therapeutic index and patient quality of life
Personalized dosing achievable via adjustable polymer–drug loading

Biological Mechanism

Glutathione-rich tumour microenvironment cleaves disulfide linkers, triggering drug release
Low GSH in normal cells leaves hydrogel intact, ensuring selective cytotoxicity

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Developer institutions	IIT-Guwahati & Bose Institute Kolkata
Material type	Water-based polymer hydrogel
Trigger molecule	Elevated glutathione (GSH)
Delivery mode	Injectable, localized, insoluble in biofluids
Cancer focus	Breast cancer (model)
Prime advantage	Reduces systemic chemotherapy side effects

GS-3S&T

13.In-Flight Internet Connectivity Technology (In-flight Connectivity)

Indian Expressin-flight Wi-Fi · Air-to-Ground · satellite connectivity

Illustration for In-Flight Internet Connectivity Technology (In-flight Connectivity)

What & Where

Definition In-flight Wi-Fi enables real-time Internet access onboard commercial aircraft

Systems Two pathways: Air-to-Ground (ATG) underbelly antennae; Satellite-based top-mounted antennae

Geography ATG suits tower-dense terrestrial routes; satellite essential over oceans & remote Indian airspace

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology Architecture

ATG Relies on ground cellular towers up to ~100 km range per tower
Satellite Uses GEO/MEO satellites ensuring pan-Indian including maritime coverage
Server Acts as onboard router managing traffic and content filtering

Passenger Benefits

Connectivity Allows browsing, OTT streaming, real-time messaging throughout flight
Integration Accessed through existing airline portal, reducing login friction
Flexibility Supports smartphones, tablets, laptops without additional hardware

Limitations & Challenges

Bandwidth Contention causes variable, generally low speeds versus ground networks
Economics High capital and recurring costs may push airlines to adopt pay-per-use models
Coverage Blackspots persist during polar, deep-ocean, or severe weather conditions

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First Indian carrier with domestic in-flight Internet	Air India (Tata Group)
Launch segment	Domestic narrow-body flights
Core technologies	Air-to-Ground; Ku/Ka-band satellite
Antenna placement ATG	Fuselage underside
Antenna placement Satellite	Aircraft rooftop radome
Signal path Satellite	Cabin → server → satellite → ground station → satellite → aircraft
Major cost head	Hardware installation & bandwidth leasing
Common speed trait	Slower than terrestrial broadband
Coverage gap ATG	Large water bodies & sparsely towered regions
Passenger device limit	Multiple device compatibility via cabin Wi-Fi

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

14.VSSC Polar Sundial Display (Sundial Innovation)

The Hindupolar sundial · analemma · VSSC

Illustration for VSSC Polar Sundial Display (Sundial Innovation)

What & Where

Polar sundial: time-keeping device with plate parallel to Earth’s axis, designed by VSSC.

Uses inverted analemma curves to auto-convert local solar time to mean solar time, showing IST and date year-round.

Installed in Rocket Garden, Space Museum, Thumba, Kerala.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology & Design

Polar-plate orientation ensures uniform gnomon shadow geometry across seasons.
3D-printed RH-200 miniature doubles as central gnomon and exhibition piece.
Wedge mount custom-angled to local latitude for accuracy.

Astronomical Concept

Analemma correction counters Equation of Time variations from Earth’s 23.5° tilt and orbital eccentricity.
Inverted hour curves embed seasonal time shift without needing manual charts.
Device outputs mean solar time directly usable for civil purposes.

Educational & Outreach

Museum placement offers hands-on demonstration of celestial mechanics to visitors.
Visual figure-eight curves aid comprehension of solar declination changes.
Integrates indigenous rocket icon to spark STEM interest among students.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Designer	Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (ISRO)
Installation site	Rocket Garden, Space Museum, Thumba, Kerala
Sundial category	Polar with analemmatic correction
Key correction pattern	Figure-eight analemma
Time displayed	Indian Standard Time (IST)
Extra display	Calendar date
Hour markers	Inverted analemma curves
Alignment	Plate parallel to Earth’s polar axis
Support structure	Wedge set to Thumba latitude
Added model	1.6-ft 3D-printed RH-200 rocket

GS-2Editorial

15.India-Latin America Trade Engagement (India-LAC Relations)

Financial ExpressLatin America · trade relations · CARICOM

Illustration for India-Latin America Trade Engagement (India-LAC Relations)

What & Where

Latin America & Caribbean (LAC): 33 nations in Western Hemisphere, mid-regulated “goldilocks” market for Indian exporters

Engagement tools: Focus LAC 1997, PTAs with Chile & MERCOSUR, assorted bilateral MoUs and credit lines

Core sectors: crude oil, lithium-copper minerals, soybeans; Indian strengths in pharma, IT, automobiles

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Milestones

1961 Nehru Mexico visit; 1968 Indira Gandhi toured eight LAC capitals
1997 Focus LAC programme inaugurated to spur exports
2014 Modi attended BRICS Brazil; 2023 Jaishankar landmark four-nation tour

Economic Angle

USD 43.22 bn trade 2023 aimed to more than double by 2028
Imports led by petroleum, gold, soybean oil; exports topped by refined fuels, passenger cars
Indian IT and pharma footprint expanding, 40 k local employees generating goodwill

Political & Strategic

Brazil, Argentina, Mexico shifted to Cabinet-level handling in 2022 signifying higher priority
Shared stance of strategic autonomy/Active Non-Alignment on Ukraine and multilateral reforms
PTAs with Chile & MERCOSUR act as stepping-stones toward broader FTAs

Challenges

Narrow PTA coverage; no region-wide framework with CELAC, Pacific Alliance, SICA
Distance, Spanish-Portuguese language, costly connectivity and visa frictions deter SMEs
China’s deeper trade, credit and infrastructure presence outcompetes Indian offers

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
LAC country count	33
India–LAC trade FY 2023	USD 43.22 bn
Imports from LAC 2023	USD 22.93 bn
Exports to LAC 2023	USD 20.09 bn
Trade target 2028	USD 100 bn
Key partners	Brazil, Mexico, Colombia
Crude share in LAC imports	30 %
Focus LAC launch year	1997
MERCOSUR formed	1991
MERCOSUR customs union	1995
Region GDP	> USD 6 trn
Indian IT local jobs	40,000
First EAM visit combo	Apr 2023 (Guyana, Panama, Colombia, DR)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 1

Recently the Government of India entered into an agreement for a lithium exploration and mining project with which one among the following countries?

GS-2Polity

16.Torrijos-Carter Panama Canal Treaties (Panama Canal Treaty)

The HinduTorrijos-Carter · Panama Canal · Jimmy Carter

Illustration for Torrijos-Carter Panama Canal Treaties (Panama Canal Treaty)

What & Where

Panama Canal: artificial waterway across Panama Isthmus linking Atlantic (Caribbean) and Pacific Oceans; vital global shipping shortcut.

Torrijos-Carter Treaties (1977): US–Panama accords transferring canal control and declaring its permanent neutrality.

Canal zone in central Panama near Panama City & Colón; under full Panamanian sovereignty since 31 Dec 1999.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Transfer clause: phased canal, lands, facility handover culminating 1999.
Neutrality article: perpetual open access, non-discriminatory tolls guaranteed by Panama & USA.
Superseded 1903 Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty granting US perpetual rights.

Economic Angle

Neutral status preserves uninterrupted commerce, securing toll revenues central to Panama’s GDP.
Panamanian control post-1999 redirects canal income to national development and upkeep.

Security Dimension

USA may use force to protect canal neutrality and receives priority wartime passage.
Canal’s chokepoint nature necessitates continual Panama–US security coordination.
Trump labelled treaties “foolish”, signalling potential policy reassessment.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Signatory nations	United States & Panama
Signing date	7 September 1977
US signatory	President Jimmy Carter
Panama signatory	General Omar Torrijos
Number of treaties	Two
Treaty names	Panama Canal Treaty; Permanent Neutrality Treaty
Control handover deadline	31 December 1999
US reserved right	Defend neutrality & priority warship passage
Core symbolism	Panama’s regained sovereignty

GS-3Security

17.2025 Defence Forces Reform Year (Armed Forces Reforms)

PIBYear of Reforms 2025 · Integrated Theatre Commands · emerging technologies

What & Where

MoD declares 2025 ‘Year of Reforms’ to build tech-centric, multi-domain, joint force.

Core focus: jointness, emerging tech, faster procurement, export push, veteran welfare.

Integrated Theatre Commands mapped: Northern – Lucknow; Western – Jaipur; Maritime – Thiruvananthapuram.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

DAP 2020 mandates ≥50 % indigenous content; streamlines, time-bounds buying.
CDS & DMA instituted for tri-service synergy; clearer tasking still awaited.
Absence of written National Security Strategy weakens politico-military linkage.

Tech & Schemes

Priority tech: AI, ML, hypersonics, robotics, cyber, space-based capabilities.
iDEX, Defence Startup Challenge, SRIJAN portal channel startup–forces collaboration.
Defence Corridors, OFB corporatisation nurture concentrated manufacturing clusters.

Economic Angle

Private output 20 %; TATA Vadodara C-295 line first private military FAL.
14,000 MSMEs + 329 startups active in defence by 2023.
Exports rising yet India remains top global arms importer 2019-23.

International Examples

Goldwater-Nichols Act 1986 reorganised US DoD, empowering unified joint commands.

Security Dimension

Cyberspace 5th war-domain; Estonia, Ukraine conflicts show disruptive reach.
Galwan 2020 led to emergency buys, underscoring readiness gaps.
Agnipath’s 6-month training, 4-year tenure raise experience, morale concerns.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Observance year	2025 ‘Year of Reforms’
Parallel tag	2024 Army ‘Year of Technology Absorption’
Defence exports FY 2023-24	₹21,083 crore
Export goal FY 2028-29	₹50,000 crore
Production turnover 2022-23	₹1,086.84 billion
Private sector share	20 % of output
FDI automatic route cap	74 %
Defence budget share of GDP	1.9 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following is associated with 'SPRINT Challenges' aimed at giving a boost to the usage of 75 new indigenous technologies/products in collaboration with Innovations for Defence Excellence, NIIO and Technology Development Acceleration Cell?

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2025PYQ 2

केंद्रीय बजट, 2025-26 में व्यय की निम्नलिखित में से किस मद को उच्चतम आवंटन प्राप्त हुआ?

GS-2Scheme

18.Project VISTAAR Digital Agri Extension (Digital Agri Extension)

DD NewsProject VISTAAR · IIT Madras · agricultural extension

What & Where

Digital platform Project VISTAAR for nationwide agricultural extension and advisory

Partnership: IIT Madras + Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Govt of India

Integrates 12,000+ agri-startups; disseminates crop, market, value-addition guidance

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Integration: YNOS engine merges startup profiles, datasets, geo-tagged farm info
Delivery: multilingual mobile dashboards push real-time contextual advisories
Access: single window to subsidies, crop insurance, PM-KISAN, eNAM

Start-up Ecosystem

Database: 12k+ agri-startups showcased for rural deployment
Opportunity: innovators pilot products with on-ground farmer cohorts
Support: IIT Madras incubation aids capital, mentorship, scale-up

Agricultural Extension

Efficiency: remote advisory cuts travel to Krishi Vigyan Kendras
Outreach: digital channels reach small, marginal, tribal farmers
Content: modules cover inputs, post-harvest, market linkage

Climate & Sustainability

Focus: promotes low-carbon, water-saving agronomy
Alerts: dissemination of weather, pest, drought early warnings
Alignment: supports SDG-2 and India NDC on adaptation

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Full form	Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources
Launch partners	IIT Madras; MoA&FW
Implementing engine	IIT Madras YNOS Venture Engine
Startup database size	>12,000 agri-startups
Core service	Digitalised agricultural extension
Advisory coverage	Production, marketing, value addition, supply chain
Scheme linkage	One-stop access to central agri schemes
Sustainability aim	Promote climate-resilient farming

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the latest in series being organized as the largest virtual gathering to create dialogues, and accelerate innovation in agriculture ?

ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements about ‘REJUPAVE’ is correct?

GS-2Scheme

19.Digital India Land Records Modernisation (Land Records Digitalisation)

The PrintDILRMP · NLRMP · land titling

Illustration for Digital India Land Records Modernisation (Land Records Digitalisation)

What & Where

Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP): central-sector scheme (100% Centre) to digitise, integrate, give title certainty.

Coverage: 98.5 % rural land records digitised across India; ULPIN, NGDRS, e-Courts rolled out state-wise.

Geography: Implemented in 29 States/UTs (ULPIN), 18 States/UTs (NGDRS) plus SVAMITVA for inhabited village areas.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

ULPIN: geo-referenced “Bhu-Aadhaar” links cadastral, revenue, spatial layers, easing transactions and disaster response.
NGDRS: uniform e-registration with online entry, e-stamp duty, appointment scheduling, document search.
SVAMITVA: drone mapping for property cards in abadi areas enabling bank credit, gram-panchayat taxation.

Benefits

Transparency: online, tamper-evident records deter benami holdings and fraud.
Credit-access: conclusive titles facilitate mortgages, crop loans, insurance uptake.
Litigation-cut: authenticated data aids faster judicial disposal, lowering civil case backlog.

Challenges

Linguistic diversity: limited vernacular interfaces, slow transliteration in many districts.
Legacy gaps: outdated cadastral maps, community holdings, unclear inter-departmental data convergence.
Resource constraints: uneven staff skills, funding and hardware at tehsil level.

Way Forward

Integration push: single portal linking registration, tax, subsidies, grievance redress.
Tech upgrade: drones, satellites, possible blockchain pilots for immutable ledgers.
Community outreach: local media, NGOs to boost awareness, women’s inclusion in title verification.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Initial launch name/year	NLRMP, 2008
Revamped & renamed	DILRMP, 2016
Scheme type	Central-sector, 100 % Union funding
Rural records digitised (2024)	98.5 %
ULPIN code length	14-digit alphanumeric
ULPIN coverage	29 States/UTs
NGDRS adoption	18 States/UTs (12 more data-sharing)
e-Court integration clearance	26 States/UTs
Bhoomi Samman Platinum districts	168 across 16 States
Workforce in agriculture (Eco Survey 23-24)	>45 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 1

With reference to the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, consider the following statements:

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

भारत सरकार की प्रमुख टेलीमेडिसिन सेवा ‘ई-संजीवनी’ को हाल ही में किसके साथ एकीकृत किया गया?

GS-1Editorial

20.Debate on Government Cash Transfers (Direct Benefit Transfers)

Indian Expresscash transfers · unconditional · conditional

What & Where

Definition; government’s direct payment to individuals/households for social protection or behaviour incentive

Key types; Unconditional, Conditional, Universal, Targeted transfers

Indian context; Mahila Samman Yojana-Delhi, PM-KISAN, NSAP pensions illustrate varied models

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Fiscal-burden; large allocations divert from health, education, infra
Demand-boost; cash raises local purchasing power, short-run stimulus
Populism; states compete on larger outlays, risking unsustainable debt

Social Impact

Women-empowerment; direct deposit enhances autonomy, mobility decisions
Poverty-relief; immediate liquidity cushions consumption shocks among poorest
Equity-bridge; targets marginalised, narrows income disparities when well-designed

Policy Alternatives

Public-services; strengthen school, health, nutrition delivery over pure cash
Job-schemes; expand MGNREGA, skill training for durable livelihood
Universal-Basic-Services; provide no-cost essentials instead of money transfers

Implementation Guidance

Evidence-base; launch post rigorous data assessment, measurable outcomes
Targeting; prioritise most vulnerable to curb leakages & fiscal stress
Monitoring; continuous evaluation to plug gaps, improve efficiency

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Core instrument	Direct cash payment
Unconditional example	PM-KISAN to cultivator families
Conditional example	Maternity Benefit Programme (vaccination, ante-natal care)
Universal category	Transfer to every citizen, no income filter
Targeted category	National Social Assistance Programme pensions
Key pro	Bypasses intermediaries, ensures beneficiary receipt
Key con	High fiscal outgo strains health-education capex
Risk flagged	Dependency, lower job-seeking incentive
Populism issue	Competitive promise escalation before elections
Suggested balance	Pair transfers with service & job creation investments

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

PAHAL, an initiative to transfer the subsidy to direct bank account of the beneficiaries, is related to

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

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