Saturday, 18 January 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (a) केवल 1. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2021.

Q: मुद्रा मूल्यह्रास (Currency depreciation) किस प्रकार से निवल निर्यात (net exports) की वृद्धि को प्रेरित कर सकता है?

The correct answer is (d) न तो 1, न ही 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2025.

Q: Arrange the following sources of revenue of the Central Government in ascending manner in terms of percentage contribution to the total revenues of the Central Government in 2023-24:

The correct answer is (a) Union Excise Duty, Custom, Corporation Tax, GST. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2024.

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (d) Neither 1 nor 2. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2017.

Q: Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the ‘Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’?

The correct answer is (a) Mobile wallets will not be necessary for online payments.. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: पहचान प्लेटफॉर्म ‘आधार’ खुला (ओपन) ‘एप्लिकेशन प्रोग्रामिंग इंटरफेस’ (ए.पी.आई.) उपलब्ध कराता है। इसका क्या अभिप्राय है ?

The correct answer is (c) 1 और 2 दोनों. This question appeared in GS1 2018.

Q: With reference to the history of India, "Ulgulan" or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

The correct answer is (d) Birsa Munda's Revolt of 1899–1900. This question appeared in GS1 2020.

Q: The resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 3 March, 2021 decided to celebrate the year 2023 as the International Year of

The correct answer is (c) Millets. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2023.

Q: ISRO successfully conducted a rocket test using cryogenic engines in the year 2007. Where is the test-stand used for the purpose, located?

The correct answer is (a) Balasore. This question appeared in GS1 2008.

Q: भारत के उपग्रह प्रक्षेपित करने वाले वाहनों के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (a) केवल 1. This question appeared in GS1 2018.

19 topicsGS-1: 4GS-2: 5GS-3: 10

0/19 done

GS-2PolityQuick Bite

1.Blood Money versus Plea Bargaining (Criminal Justice)

The Hindudiyat · blood money · plea bargaining

What & Where

Blood money (diya) — monetary compensation under Sharia for unintentional murder or when heirs waive qisas.

Current case: Indian nurse on Yemen death row; talks ongoing for diya-based acquittal.

Even after victim–offender settlement, Yemen state can still impose penal sanction.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Constitution Article 20 limits ex-post penalties; diya absent from IPC/BNSS corpus.
Plea bargaining requires voluntary written application and judicial satisfaction.
State prosecution in India retains authority irrespective of private settlements.

International Example

West Asian nations incl. Saudi, UAE, Yemen operationalise diya with set tariff values.
Diplomatic missions often mediate fundraising from expatriate communities for diya.

Historical Context

Arthashastra prescribed quantified fines scaled by varna and gravity.
Manusmriti emphasised monetary atonement when corporal punishment waived.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Governing faith-law	Sharia
Crime types eligible for diya	Unintentional homicide, culpable homicide
India’s stance on diya	Not recognised in domestic law
Rough Indian analogue	Plea bargaining (CrPC Ch. XXIA)
Plea bargaining brought by	Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2005
Offence ceiling for plea deal	Max imprisonment < 7 years
Excluded offences	Murder, rape, crimes vs women/children <14
Victim compensation via plea	Permitted, court-monitored
Classical Indian precedent	Arthashastra & Manusmriti fine-based reparations

GS-3Economy

2.Recent Rupee Depreciation Analysis (Exchange Rate)

The Hindurupee depreciation · devaluation · trade deficit

Illustration for Recent Rupee Depreciation Analysis (Exchange Rate)

What & Where

Devaluation – planned cut in currency value by Govt/RBI under fixed/pegged regime.

Depreciation – market-driven rupee fall under managed-float; recent drop versus US $ after long stability.

Geography focus – India’s external sector: oil-import dependence, FPI flows, Fed-led dollar surge.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Drivers

Inflation; domestic price spike erodes real rupee, hurts export cost edge.
Capital-outflows; FPIs exit amid higher US yields and risk aversion.
Geopolitics; Ukraine war lifts oil prices, bloating current-account deficit.

Macroeconomic Impacts

Imports; dearer energy & inputs widen CAD and pressure fiscal math.
Inflation; pass-through from expensive imports pushes CPI/WPI upward.
Debt-service; government and corporates face heavier rupee repayments.

Policy Toolkit

Intervention; RBI spot sales, swap lines, NDF monitoring to curb volatility.
Rates; calibrated repo hikes raise rupee carry, lure portfolio inflows.
Fiscal; export incentives, import substitution, FDI facilitation ease imbalance.

Way Ahead

Framework; transparent, consistent exchange-rate stance boosts investor confidence.
Production; Make-in-India, logistics upgrades cut import reliance, raise export depth.
Reserves; diversify into non-USD assets to hedge against dollar strength.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Decision maker: Devaluation	Govt / RBI policy move
Decision maker: Depreciation	Supply-demand in forex market
Major internal drag	Widening trade & fiscal deficits
Top external drag	US Fed rate hikes strengthening dollar
Immediate import impact	Costlier crude, electronics, raw materials
RBI fire-power (Aug 2023)	≈ $600 bn forex reserves
Tool: FX intervention	RBI sells $ to absorb rupee demand
External-debt effect	Servicing cost rises when rupee weakens

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2021PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 2

मुद्रा मूल्यह्रास (Currency depreciation) किस प्रकार से निवल निर्यात (net exports) की वृद्धि को प्रेरित कर सकता है?

GS-3Economy

3.Centre-State Revenue Dependence Trends (Fiscal Federalism)

The Hinducentral transfers · state debt-GDP · GST revenue

Illustration for Centre-State Revenue Dependence Trends (Fiscal Federalism)

What & Where

Definition States’ revenue basket = own tax, own non-tax, share of central taxes, and central grants

Period FY16-FY25 examined for all Indian states & UTs with legislature

Geography Indian federal fiscal system governed by Article 270 tax devolution

Quick Facts for MCQs

Fiscal Trends

Pandemic spending rose 14 % while capital outlay slowed
Non-tax revenue trajectory declining to record low FY25
Debt burden exceeds recommended 20 % threshold

Dependency Implications

Fiscal-autonomy eroded by Centre control over income tax and GST
Performance-linked transfers risk widening regional inequality
Heavy dependence restricts counter-cyclical stimulus options

Collection Gaps

Own tax-to-GSDP ratio falling in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka
Inefficient capture of stamp duty, vehicle taxes, registration fees
Interest receipts and SPSE dividends contribute under 1 %

Reform Measures

Finance Commissions raised devolution to 42 % then 41 %
States revising property tax, liquor fees, power tariffs, monetising assets
Tech-driven tax administration proposed for wider base and compliance

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Central transfers share FY16-25	23 – 30 % of total state revenue
Central transfers share 2000s	20 – 24 %
Grants in state non-tax revenue	65 – 70 % now vs 55 – 60 % earlier
Own tax revenue share FY25	Remains below 50 %
SGST share in revenue	15 % FY18 → 22 % FY25
Own tax excl SGST	34 % FY18 → 28 % FY25
Non-tax revenue share FY25	< 24 % (25-year low)
State debt-to-GDP Mar 2024	28.5 %; FRBM norm 20 %
Property tax yield India	0.2 % GDP vs OECD 1.1 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2024PYQ 1

Arrange the following sources of revenue of the Central Government in ascending manner in terms of percentage contribution to the total revenues of the Central Government in 2023-24:

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2017PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

GS-3EconomyQuick Bite

4.UPI Access for PPI Wallet Holders (Digital Payments Reform)

The HinduRBI amendment · UPI · PPI

What & Where

RBI allows full-KYC Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) users to access UPI via third-party apps across India

PPIs include digital wallets, gift cards; UPI is NPCI’s instant inter-bank mobile payment rail

Change removes issuer-app restriction, expanding payment flexibility within domestic digital ecosystem

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Amendment issued under Master Direction on PPIs, overriding earlier issuer-only usage clause
Objective enhances consumer choice, interoperability, and aligns with RBI’s payments vision 2025

Tech & Schemes

Integration requires PPI identifier mapping on UPI rails by NPCI
Full-KYC status ensures transaction limits on par with bank accounts

Economic Angle

Expanded access expected to lift UPI volumes beyond current 70 % market share
PPI-UPI convergence may deepen fintech penetration among lightly banked users

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Regulator issuing amendment	Reserve Bank of India
Eligibility	Full-KYC PPI holders
Third-party apps enabled	PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm (indicative)
PPIs in circulation	≈ 1.14 billion (banks + non-banks)
UPI share in 2023-24 digital transactions	~70 %
Oct 2024 UPI volume	16.58 billion transactions
Oct 2024 UPI value	₹ 23.49 lakh crore
YoY growth Oct 2024	~45 %
International push	UPI & RuPay being promoted abroad
Implementation year of regulation	2025

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the ‘Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’?

GS1 2018PYQ 2

पहचान प्लेटफॉर्म ‘आधार’ खुला (ओपन) ‘एप्लिकेशन प्रोग्रामिंग इंटरफेस’ (ए.पी.आई.) उपलब्ध कराता है। इसका क्या अभिप्राय है ?

GS-1History

5.Kuka Rebellion Punjab 1872 (19th-Century Revolt)

Indian ExpressNamdhari sect · Satguru Ram Singh · Malerkotla attack

Illustration for Kuka Rebellion Punjab 1872 (19th-Century Revolt)

What & Where

Anti-British uprising by Namdhari (Kuka) Sikhs combining religious reform with political resistance.

Peak clashes January 1872 at Malerkotla & Malaudh Fort, eastern Punjab (then British India).

Commemorated each 17 January as Kuka Martyrs’ Day at Namdhari Shaheed Smarak, Malerkotla.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Causes & Ideology

Religious-reform; banned meat, liquor, foreign cloth, idol worship.
Cow-protection central; slaughter inflamed community sentiment.
Swadeshi-style boycott signalled rejection of colonial economy.

Timeline & Battles

13 Jan 1872 Malerkotla clash following cow slaughter.
15 Jan 1872 assault on pro-British Malaudh Fort.
17-18 Jan 1872 cannon executions after rebel surrender.

Repression Measures

Deputy Commissioner Cowan ordered instant, trial-less executions.
Thousands compelled to watch, intended as deterrent.
Section 144-type restrictions; Namdhari assemblies and arms banned.

Legacy & Inspiration

Ram Singh’s non-cooperation foreshadowed later Gandhian tactics.
Martyrdom of 12-year-olds Bishan & Waryam Singh fuels Punjabi folklore.
Sect regrouped at Bhaini Sahib, sustaining subterranean resistance.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Alternate name	Namdhari movement
Founder-leader	Satguru Ram Singh
Peak year	1872
Spark incident	Cow slaughter at Malerkotla
Key attack dates	13 Jan 1872 & 15 Jan 1872
British officer	John Lambert Cowan
Execution method	Rebels blown from cannons
Rebels executed	49 on 17 Jan; 17 on 18 Jan
Youngest martyr age	12 years
Exile destination	Rangoon, Burma

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2020PYQ 1

With reference to the history of India, "Ulgulan" or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

6.Kokborok Language Script Debate (Tribal Language Script)

The HinduKokborok · Tripura · Roman script

What & Where

Kokborok – Sino-Tibetan language of Borok (Tripuri) tribes, Tripura

Spoken chiefly in all eight Tripura districts; minor presence in adjoining Northeast states

Current flashpoint: demand to allow Roman script in textbooks, official work

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Roots

Chronicle Rajratnakar first written in Kokborok using Koloma in 1st century AD
Etymology Kok = language, Borok = man signifying language of the Borok people
Continuous oral-literary presence across Tripuri royal era

Language Policy

Tripura Assembly site of repeated script agitations since 1979 recognition
Two expert commissions endorsed Roman but recommendations unimplemented
Script choice affects curriculum, official notifications, competitive exams

Social Concerns

Tribal bodies view Bengali or Devanagari imposition as cultural dilution risk
Roman script seen as neutral, identity-affirming, internet friendly
Detentions of TSF members highlight growing youth mobilisation

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Language family	Sino-Tibetan
2011 Census share	23.97 % of Tripura population
Official status year	1979 (with Bengali)
Present writing	Mainly Bengali script; Roman widely used informally
Original script	Koloma
Favoured script by tribes	Roman
Govt-preferred script	Bengali; considers Devanagari option
Key protest group	Twipra Students’ Federation
Supportive panels	Shyama Charan Tripura Commission; Pabitra Sarkar Commission

GS-3Environment

7.2025 International Year of Glaciers Preservation (Glacier Conservation)

Hindustan TimesUN observance · glaciers · World Day for Glaciers

Illustration for 2025 International Year of Glaciers Preservation (Glacier Conservation)

What & Where

Glaciers = land-based, slow-flowing snow–ice bodies storing ≈2 % of Earth’s water, relics of last Ice Age.

Spatial spread: polar Greenland–Antarctica plus high-mountain tropics/HKH (“Third Pole”) owing to low insolation or altitude.

UN designates 2025 International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation; 21 March becomes annual World Day for Glaciers.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Environmental Impact

Sea-level-rise >60 m potential; present melt already accelerates coastal erosion and storm surge risk.
Albedo loss warms oceans, disturbs jet stream/polar vortex, triggering extreme weather worldwide.
Arctic sea-ice decline may render polar bears extinct by 2100; walrus, fisheries, tundra ecosystems stressed.

Regional Snapshot

Hindu Kush Himalaya warming twice global average; high Glacial-Lake-Outburst-Flood vulnerability.
HKH stores largest ice outside poles; nicknamed “Water Tower of Asia”.
Amu Darya summer flow 27 % from glaciers; La Paz, Ladakh ice-stupas rely on meltwater.

International Response

UNGA 2022 resolution flagged glacier urgency; 2025 Tajikistan conference + GEF IWC11 prioritize preservation.
WGMS under UNEP-UNESCO-WMO provides long-term cryosphere datasets.
World Glacier Day & International Year aim global awareness, funding, policy traction.

Proposed Activities

Outreach: global media plus youth ambassadors to spotlight GHG-glacier linkage.
Capacity-building: train communities, policymakers on glacier dynamics, DRR integration.
Finance: tap governments, private sector, philanthropy for monitoring, research, adaptation projects.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
International Year	2025
World Day for Glaciers	21 March
Global glaciers (count)	> 275,000
Global glacier area	≈ 7 lakh km²
WGMS sites monitored	210,000
Inevitable loss by 2100	> 33 %
HKH range length	≈ 3,500 km
HKH river basins served	12 (10 transboundary)
Ice-sheet freshwater share	≈ 70 %
Sea-level rise if all melt	> 60 m (195 ft)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

The resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 3 March, 2021 decided to celebrate the year 2023 as the International Year of

GS-3S&T

8.Satish Dhawan Space Centre Expansion (Spaceport Expansion)

Indian ExpressSriharikota · third launch pad · SDSC

Illustration for Satish Dhawan Space Centre Expansion (Spaceport Expansion)

What & Where

Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) — ISRO’s main launch complex on Sriharikota barrier island, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh.

Hosts launch pads for sounding rockets, PSLV, GSLV; Union Cabinet okays a third pad for rising mission load.

Island separates Pulicat Lake from Bay of Bengal, enabling safe eastward sea-overflight near the Equator.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Location Advantages

East-coast launch gains Earth-rotation velocity, boosts payload to orbit.
Sparsely inhabited site lowers risk; debris predicted to fall in ocean.
Near-equator latitude suits geostationary transfer trajectories.

Historical Timeline

1968: Site selected by Vikram Sarabhai; surveys backed by Abid Hussain.
1971: Facility becomes operational with sounding rocket programme.
2002: Renamed to honour pioneering ISRO chairman Satish Dhawan.

Tech & Schemes

Infrastructure supports sounding rockets, PSLV, GSLV, future Gaganyaan crewed flights.
Third pad expected to raise annual launch capacity and open slots for private vehicles.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Operational since	9 Oct 1971 (Rohini-125)
Initial name	Sriharikota Range (SHAR)
Renamed as SDSC	2002, after Satish Dhawan
District / State	Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Land acquired	≈40,000 acres (1968)
Geographic setting	Barrier island between Pulicat Lake & Bay of Bengal
Latest move	3rd launch pad sanctioned by Union Cabinet
Flagship missions	PSLV, GSLV, Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2008PYQ 1

ISRO successfully conducted a rocket test using cryogenic engines in the year 2007. Where is the test-stand used for the purpose, located?

GS1 2018PYQ 2

भारत के उपग्रह प्रक्षेपित करने वाले वाहनों के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-3S&T

9.Rare Planet Parade Alignment 2025 (Celestial Alignment)

Times of Indiaplanet parade · ecliptic plane · Venus Saturn Jupiter Mars

Illustration for Rare Planet Parade Alignment 2025 (Celestial Alignment)

What & Where

Planet parade = simultaneous visibility of several planets aligned along the ecliptic in night or morning sky.

Alignment forms curved arc; lasts briefly because planets have differing orbital speeds and distances.

Jan 2025 evening sky shows Venus-Saturn-Jupiter-Mars-Uranus-Neptune in one sightline.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Astronomical Education

Outreach; boosts public interest in astronomy and celestial mechanics.
Schools, planetariums schedule observation events.

Cultural Relevance

History; alignments often interpreted as omens or folklore inspiration.
Modern media revives ancient sky-watch traditions.

Scientific Exploration

Researchers exploit combined visibility to compare planetary light spectra and motion.
Distant Uranus, Neptune observation aided when clustered with brighter inner planets.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Official term status	Not recognised by IAU; popular usage
Alignment plane	Ecliptic plane of Solar System
Sky timing options	Morning sky or evening sky
2025 participating planets	Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Uranus, Neptune
Key viewing month	January 2025

GS-3S&T

10.Twigstats Genetic Ancestry Tool (Genetic Analysis)

The HinduTwigstats · ancient DNA · haplotypes

Illustration for Twigstats Genetic Ancestry Tool (Genetic Analysis)

What & Where

Twigstats; advanced R/C++ tool reconstructing genetic family trees via recent DNA mutations

Applied to ancient DNA from Northern & Central Europe, 500 BC – 1000 AD

Integrates haplotypes, rare variants & SNPs under a time-stratified ancestry framework

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Compatibility; R interface allows plug-in of custom demographic modules
C++ backend supplies high-speed computation for millions of variants
Complements SNP-only panels when closely related ancestries overlap

Methodological Edge

Time-stratified modeling minimises era-based demographic confounders
Recent-mutation tracking resolves individual links beyond population averages
Genealogical trees directly connect ancient remains with modern genomes

Research Scope

Enables retrospective mapping of pathogen susceptibility across millennia
Tests migration narratives like Celtic, Roman or Viking movements
Supports forensic pedigree reconstruction in low-quality DNA cases

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Tool type	Genetic ancestry analysis software
Core inputs	Ancient + modern DNA mutations
Key region tested	Northern & Central Europe
Temporal span	500 BC – 1000 AD
Analytical approach	Time-stratified ancestry tracing
Combined techniques	Haplotypes, rare variants, SNPs
Programming support	R interface, C++ backend
Output granularity	Individual-level ancestral links

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

11.Gravity Energy Storage Technology (Energy Storage Tech)

Down to Earthgravity storage · potential energy · piston turbine

Illustration for Gravity Energy Storage Technology (Energy Storage Tech)

What & Where

Definition: mechanical system storing electricity by lifting heavy mass, later releasing it to spin turbine.

Process: surplus power → hoist piston/weights; demand phase → descent forces fluid/air through generator.

Geography: installable on brownfield sites, mine shafts, tall towers; no specific topography unlike pumped-hydro.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology & Operation

Hoisting system: electric motors/cranes lift 35-10,000 t masses during low-cost power windows.
Discharge: weight descent powers pump-turbine; efficiency 70-85 %.
Modularity: stackable blocks/pistons enable MWh–GWh scale designs.

Advantages

Longevity: 20-40 year life, no capacity fade like batteries.
Maintenance: few moving parts, lower OPEX than electro-chemical systems.
Safety: no fire risk, non-toxic components.

Indian Context

Grid need: addresses diurnal solar dips after 6 pm, reducing diesel peaker dependence.
Complementary schemes: National Solar Mission, green open-access rules favour storage addition.
Land use: disused open-cast mines in Jharkhand, Rajasthan offer ready shafts for early pilots.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Core energy form	Gravitational potential
Typical medium	Solid concrete blocks or water-filled piston
Round-trip life	Decades; minimal mechanical wear
Site flexibility	Works in plains, urban fringes, retired mines
Main rival tech	Lithium-ion battery storage
Chemical usage	Nil; hence low disposal hazard
Grid role	Mitigates solar-wind intermittency
India’s 2030 RE goal	500 GW non-fossil capacity

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

12.ISRO CROPS Space Agriculture Module (Space Agriculture)

Indian ExpressCROPS · ISRO · lobia seeds

What & Where

CROPS Module: ISRO’s mini-greenhouse to study plant growth under microgravity aboard orbital platform.

Methods: hydroponics, aeroponics, porous-clay soil-analog with slow-release fertiliser.

Geography: Developed in India, operated remotely from Earth, deployed in low-Earth orbit.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Microcontroller-based climate control maintains temperature, humidity, airflow automatically.
Sensors relay real-time plant health data to ISRO ground stations.
Modular design allows swap-in of varied crop trays for rapid experimentation.

Life-Support Benefits

Carbon-cycle: plants convert astronaut-exhaled CO₂ into breathable oxygen.
Waste-loop: plant biomass potentially composted for fertiliser, closing nutrient loop.
Psychological: green habitat shown to reduce crew stress on long missions.

Crop Selection Criteria

Nutrient-dense; short growth cycle; compact morphology for limited cabin volume.
Nitrogen-fixing legumes aid internal nutrient regeneration.
Edible fresh; minimal post-harvest processing required in microgravity.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Implementing agency	Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
CROPS full form	Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies
First seed germinated	Lobia / black-eyed pea
Lighting system	LED array simulating sunlight
Water delivery	Earth-operated, closed loop
Key growth media	Hydroponic solution, aeroponic mist, porous clay
Core benefit	In-situ food & life-support for long-duration missions
Ideal space crops	Leafy greens, beans/peas, radish, carrot, wheat, rice, tomato, strawberry
Air-quality role	CO₂ uptake, O₂ release, humidity regulation

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2010PYQ 1

An objective of the National Food Security Mission is to increase the production of certain crops through area expansion and productivity enhancement in a sustainable manner in the identified districts of the country. What are those crops?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

13.Trichophyton Indotineae Naming Debate (Antifungal Resistance)

The HinduTrichophyton indotineae · skin infection · antifungal resistance

What & Where

Trichophyton indotineae: novel dermatophyte causing multi-drug-resistant tinea (ringworm) skin disease

First isolated 2020 in India-Nepal patients; earlier samples Australia, Oman, Iran; now in > 40 countries

Region-specific name “indotineae” criticised as stigmatic, origin scientifically uncertain

Quick Facts for MCQs

Taxonomy & Naming

WHO guidance: avoid geographic tags; prefer symptom/severity descriptors
Critics: “indotineae” breaches fungal nomenclature ethics, invites prejudice
Petition involves dermatologists from India and 13 other countries

Health Dimension

Infection difficult to treat owing to multi-drug resistance
Causes widespread, chronic ringworm outbreaks across continents
Heightens need for new antifungal strategies and stewardship

Social Concerns

Geographic naming risks stigma, misinformation, travel or trade barriers
Historical parallels show lasting harm from mislabels (e.g., Spanish flu)
Neutral naming sought to protect affected communities and public trust

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Pathogen type	Dermatophyte fungus (genus Trichophyton)
Year described	2020
Discovering team	Japanese dermatologists
Initial case regions	India & Nepal
Global presence	Reported from 40+ countries
Drug profile	Often resistant to standard antifungals
Pre-2010 evidence	Australia, Oman, Iran isolates
Contested epithet	“indotineae” (India-linked)
Naming rulebook	WHO 2015 best practices, ICD
Supportive bodies	WHO, OIE, FAO, ASM
Past misnomer models	Spanish flu, Delhi boil

GS-2Editorial

14.WEF Global Cybersecurity and Risks Reports 2025 (WEF Reports)

WEFWEF · Global Cybersecurity Outlook · Global Risks Report

Illustration for WEF Global Cybersecurity and Risks Reports 2025 (WEF Reports)

What & Where

World Economic Forum issues forward-looking reports benchmarking global cybersecurity and multidomain risks.

Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 (with Accenture) scans threat evolution and organisational resilience gaps.

Global Risks Report 2025 ranks short-, medium- and long-term global perils via expert survey.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Escalation: Cybercrime sophistication rising amid geopolitical friction and new tech.
Infrastructure: Public utilities, supply chains flagged as high-vulnerability targets.
Priority: Cyber threats listed among most urgent 2025 global risks.

Regional Disparities

Confidence gap: Latin America & Africa report over double Europe/N. America insecurity levels.
Preparedness: Report urges localised strategies reflecting continental variance.
Resource strain: Smaller economies hardest hit by resilience funding shortages.

Public vs Private Contrast

Resilience: Public bodies 3-4× likelier to deem defences inadequate.
Talent: Nearly half of government agencies report cybersecurity staffing deficits.
Incentives: Private firms improving faster, aided by market-driven risk management.

Time Horizons

Immediate 2025: Focus on cyber attacks, geopolitical instability.
2027 window: Risks tied to tech adoption, resource scarcity become prominent.
2035 outlook: Climate resilience, demographic pressures dominate forecast.

Workforce Gap

Recruitment: Skilled cyber professionals remain scarce, especially in public entities.
Impact: Talent shortages directly widen organisational resilience gaps.
Call-to-action: Report advocates public-private training pipelines.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Publishing body	World Economic Forum (WEF)
Cyber Outlook partner	Accenture
Survey base (Global Risks)	>900 experts (GRPS)
Small-firm resilience gap	7× worse than in 2022
Latin America lacking confidence	42 % organisations
Africa lacking confidence	36 % organisations
Europe & N. America lacking confidence	15 % organisations
Public-sector inadequate resilience	38 % entities
Private-sector inadequate resilience	10 % entities
Public-sector talent shortfall	49 % lack enough cyber experts
Time horizons analysed	2025, 2027, 2035

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI 2025PYQ 1

वर्ष 2025 में निम्नलिखित में से किसके तत्वावधान में आयोजित की गई बैठक का विषय 'दुश्मान युग के लिए सहयोग (Collaboration for the Intelligent Age)' था?

GS-2Polity

15.South Korea Martial Law Crisis 2024 (Martial Law)

Indian ExpressSouth Korea · Yoon Suk-yeol · martial law

Illustration for South Korea Martial Law Crisis 2024 (Martial Law)

What & Where

Martial Law – military administration replacing civil authority during extreme war, rebellion or similar emergency

Declarations: explicit in South Korea Constitution Article 77; implicit in India with Article 34 indemnity provision

Geography: recent December 2024 imposition in South Korea; in India can be proclaimed area-specific within territory

Quick Facts for MCQs

Constitutional Provisions

SouthKorea Article77 permits president to mobilise forces, suspend warrants, speech, assembly
India lacks explicit declaration clause; Parliament may indemnify acts and validate sentences under Article34
SupremeCourt holds habeas corpus not auto-suspended during Indian martial law

Historical Timeline

ColonialRule 1910-45 Japanese; peninsula split at 38th parallel post WWII
Autocracy Rhee 1948-60 toppled by student uprising; martial law repeatedly used
DemocraticTransition 1987 elections brought Roh Tae-woo; liberal democracy consolidated 1988 onward

India–ROK Relations

Diplomacy established 1973; consular links 1962
CEPA 2010 and KoreaPlus cell accelerated trade and investments
Defence Roadmap 2019; India pavilion showcased at ADEX-2023 Seoul

Martial vs National Emergency

MartialLaw targets Fundamental Rights, suspends civil courts, area specific, no detailed constitutional code
NationalEmergency reshapes Centre-state powers, can cover whole nation, grounds limited to war, external aggression, armed rebellion

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
SK constitution article on martial law	Article 77
Indian indemnity article	Article 34
National emergency article India	Article 352
SK martial law declarations since 1948	16; last full 1980
Impeachment vote needed for Indian President	Two-thirds each House
India–ROK diplomatic ties year	1973
Strategic Partnership upgrade to “Special”	2015
CEPA operational from	2010
2023 bilateral trade value	USD 24.4 billion
Cumulative ROK FDI in India Jun 2023	USD 8.02 billion

GS-2Scheme

16.PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (Health Infrastructure)

Indian ExpressPM-ABHIM · centrally sponsored · MoHFW

Illustration for PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (Health Infrastructure)

What & Where

Scheme: PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission; Centrally Sponsored with some Central Sector parts.

Coverage: Pan-India strengthening of primary-to-tertiary health infrastructure, surveillance and research.

Period: FY 2021-22 to 2025-26 under Health & Family Welfare Ministry.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Supreme-Court: Stayed Delhi HC order forcing Delhi Govt to sign MoU with Centre for PM-ABHIM rollout.
Federalism: Dispute underscores Centre-State concurrence needed for CSS participation.
MoU-Clause: Signing mandatory for fund release under mission guidelines.

Infrastructure Targets

Wellness-Centres: Focus on difficult rural areas and urban slums for preventive & promotive care.
Critical-Care: 150-bed blocks in 12 central institutes plus 602 district hospitals for referral readiness.
Surveillance-Network: Regional NCDCs, metropolitan units, IPHLs integrated via upgraded digital portal.

Pandemic Preparedness

One-Health: Institutions planned for zoonotic disease surveillance.
Virology-Capacity: Additional National Institutes of Virology, BSL-III labs to boost pathogen research.
Mobile-Hospitals: Mission envisages deployable facilities for health emergencies, natural disasters.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year	2021-22
Total outlay	₹64,180 crore
Funding nature	CSS + CS components
Central Institutions	12 with 150-bed Critical Care Blocks
Health Emergency Operation Centres	15
Rural HWCs	17,788
Urban HWCs	11,024
Block Public Health Units	3,382
District Critical Care Hospital Blocks	602 districts (>5 lakh pop.)
Integrated Public Health Labs	730 districts
Portal expansion	Integrated Health Information Portal links all public labs
Pandemic labs	New NIVs & BSL-III labs
Implementing ministry	MoHFW

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 1

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

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:

GS-2Scheme

17.SVAMITVA Rural Land Mapping Scheme (Rural Land Records)

News on Airproperty cards · drone survey · MoPR

Illustration for SVAMITVA Rural Land Mapping Scheme (Rural Land Records)

What & Where

Scheme: SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas), Central Sector, launched 2020

Process: Drone & CORS surveying of rural abadi areas to create GIS maps and digital Record of Rights

Geography: Targets all Indian villages; saturation achieved in six states/UTs including Puducherry, Tripura

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Drone mapping delivers centimeter accuracy parcel boundaries
CORS network supplies real time geospatial coordinates for consistency
GIS outputs assist Gram Panchayat Development Plan preparation

Economic Angle

Collateralisation of property cards widens formal credit access
Clear titles encourage property monetisation and rural investment
Dispute reduction lowers transaction costs boosting local economy

Governance & Implementation

MoPR partners state revenue departments for survey and card issuance
65 lakh cards set for distribution via PM video conferencing ensuring visibility
Digital workflow enhances transparency and record permanency

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Nodal ministry	Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Scheme type	Central Sector
Tech tools	Drones + Continuously Operating Reference Stations
Official output	Property Card (Record of Rights)
Launch year	2020
Villages surveyed	17 lakh +
States/UTs saturated	6 (e.g., Puducherry, Tripura)
Upcoming cards	65 lakh to be distributed by PM

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 1

Which one among the following statements about the objectives of Vibrant Village Programme is correct?

GS-1Editorial

18.UNICEF Prospects for Children 2025 (Child Welfare Report)

Down to EarthUNICEF · conflict zones · debt crisis

Illustration for UNICEF Prospects for Children 2025 (Child Welfare Report)

What & Where

UNICEF’s “Prospects for Children 2025” flags multi-crises—conflict, debt, climate, digital divide—harming child rights worldwide.

Core hotspots: 473 mn children in conflict zones; 400 mn in high-debt nations; Africa & LICs worst digital lag.

India lens: 26th on Children’s Climate Risk Index; 350 mn children projected by 2050 needing resilient systems.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conflict & Debt

Conflict: share of affected children doubled from 10 % (1990s) to 19 % now; risks include displacement, trauma.
Debt: 5 % external-debt rise may slash LMIC education spend by USD 12.8 bn, squeezing health & services.
Africa: 15 nations pay more on debt than education; >40 LICs pay more debt than health.

Climate & Digital Gap

Finance: <3 % climate funds child-responsive, weakening adaptive health/education services.
Heatwaves: Indian children’s exposure projected eightfold rise versus 2000s baseline.
Digital divide: DPI benefits skewed; adolescent girls, disabled children largest exclusion cohort.

India-Specific Challenges

Child labour: 10.1 mn (Census 2011); agriculture & informal sectors dominate despite amended legislation.
Child marriage: India 4th in South Asia; perpetuates female dropouts, poor health outcomes.
Juvenile crime: 30,555 cases in 2022; poverty, education gaps key drivers.

Policy Tools & Schemes

Flagship: Saksham Anganwadi-Poshan 2.0, Mission Vatsalya, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, RTE Act 2009.
Digital: DIKSHA platform expands e-learning; needs bandwidth & device equity.
Protection: POCSO 2019, JJ Act 2015, DPDPA 2023 aim stronger child safety & data privacy.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Children in conflict zones (2023)	473 million ≈ 19% global
Children in debt-stressed countries	400 million
Debt vs social protection	Debt payments 11× higher
Climate finance for children	2.4 % of total
Offline adolescent girls in LICs	90 %
Youth (15-24) net access, Africa	53 %
UNICEF founding year	1946
UNICEF HQ	New York City
UNICEF Nobel Peace Prize	1965
India rank, Climate Risk Index	26th

GS-1Misc

19.Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (National Sports Award)

PIBKhel Ratna · renamed 2021 · Ministry of Youth Affairs

Illustration for Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (National Sports Award)

What & Where

Apex Indian sports honour; instituted 1991-92, renamed 2021 after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand

Conferred by President at Rashtrapati Bhavan; administered by Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

Rewards four-year outstanding international performance across Olympic, Paralympic, Commonwealth, Asian and World stages

Quick Facts for MCQs

Eligibility & Criteria

Performance: Outstanding results across consecutive four-year international cycle
Integrity: Mandatory clean anti-doping and disciplinary record
Events: Olympics, Paralympics, Asian, Commonwealth, World Championships considered

Nomination & Selection

Sources: NSF, SAI, State Governments, IOA; Government may add two names
Committee: Officials, Olympians, journalists, experts; medals weighted via points system
Finalisation: Union Sports Minister approves; President bestows award at Rashtrapati Bhavan

2024 Honour Roll

Names: Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, Harmanpreet Singh, Praveen Kumar
Sports: Shooting, Chess, Hockey, Para High Jump respectively
Significance: Showcases excellence across individual, team, able-bodied and para disciplines

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Instituted	1991-92
Original name	Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna
Renamed year	2021
Namesake sport	Hockey
Administering ministry	Youth Affairs & Sports
Performance window	Last 4 years
Anti-doping status	Clean record compulsory
Eligible events	Olympics, CWG, Asian, Worlds
Nomination sources	NSF, SAI, States, IOA
Govt suo-moto quota	Up to 2 athletes
Selection tool	Points for medal value
Final approver	Union Sports Minister
2024 recipients	Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, Harmanpreet Singh, Praveen Kumar
Manu Bhaker’s sport	Shooting
D Gukesh’s sport	Chess
Harmanpreet Singh’s sport	Hockey
Praveen Kumar’s sport	Para High Jump

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following is NOT correct regarding the Khel Ratna Award?

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2025PYQ 2

Who among the following were awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024?

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