Monday, 20 January 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: With reference to the Government of India’s various programmes, what is Nirmal Gram Puraskar?

The correct answer is (a) It is an incentive scheme of scholarships for the single girl child in families in villages.. This question appeared in GS1 2006.

Q: Which state is home to India’s first Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductor manufacturing plant?

The correct answer is (a) Odisha. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: Dholera and Sanand in Gujarat are in news for setting up

The correct answer is (a) solar panels. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: Assertion (A): India does not export natural rubber.

The correct answer is (a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A. This question appeared in GS1 2004.

Q: With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is ‘Kalaripayattu’?

The correct answer is (a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2014.

Q: The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has recently approved the inclusion of four indigenous games to be part of Khelo India Youth Games 2021. Which one of the following is NOT included ?

The correct answer is (a) Thang-Ta. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2021.

Q: With reference to the history of Orissa, consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (a) 1. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025.

Q: Indian Airlines (now renamed ‘Indian’) have redesigned their logo which is a graphic wheel. This logo has been inspired from which one of the following?

The correct answer is (a) Hampi Temples. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2006.

Q: Consider the following statements in respect of the first Kho Kho World Cup:

The correct answer is (a) I only. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2025.

Q: The host country of the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, 2025 is

The correct answer is (a) Bangladesh. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2025.

19 topicsGS-1: 5GS-2: 7GS-3: 7

0/19 done

GS-2Polity

1.Electoral Trust Donation Surge (Electoral Funding)

Indian ExpressPrudent Electoral Trust · ECI Report · SC Electoral Bonds

Illustration for Electoral Trust Donation Surge (Electoral Funding)

What & Where

Electoral Trust = Sec 8 (old 25) not-for-profit company pooling disclosed donations for registered parties in India.

Must pass ≥95 % collections to eligible parties within same FY; donors’ identities mandatorily reported to ECI.

FY 2023-24 spike: Prudent Electoral Trust alone handled ₹1,075.7 cr after SC scrapped anonymous Electoral Bonds.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

SupremeCourt: Electoral Bond scheme violates Art 19(1)(a) right to information; bonds halted immediately.
Income-tax Sec 17CA lists permissible donors: citizens, Indian companies, HUFs, firms, AOPs.
Trust registration renewal compulsory every 3 years with ECI & CBDT oversight.

Funding Pattern FY 2023-24

Donations through trusts nearly tripled YoY; corporates shifted post-bond ban.
Concentration: Prudent + Triumph dominate trust inflows, reflecting top-donor centralisation.
Recipient ranking: BJP » INC > BRS > YSRCP.

Transparency & Accountability

Trust model publishes donor name, PAN, amount, beneficiary party—unlike bonds’ secrecy.
Public disclosure curbs crony capitalism risk but doesn’t cap corporate sums.
Only five active trusts limits competitive transparency landscape.

Reform Suggestions

Indrajit Gupta panel: partial in-kind state funding for recognised parties only.
Law Commission 1999 sought RPA sec 78A mandating audited, published party accounts.
Proposed National Election Fund to pool all donations, allocate by vote-share, shielding donors.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First Trust Rules	CBDT scheme, 2013
Governing Company Act Clause	Section 8, Companies Act 2013
Compulsory payout ratio	≥ 95 % within FY
No. of ECI-recognised trusts	15 + (only 5 active FY24)
Largest trust FY24	Prudent Electoral Trust
Amount received by Prudent	₹1,075.71 crore
Share post-SC verdict (PET)	74 % receipts after 15 Feb 2024
Top recipient party	Bharatiya Janata Party
SC case ending Bonds	ADR v UoI, Feb 2024
Anonymous funding via Bonds 2018-23	~₹12,000 crore

GS-2Polity

2.National Panchayat Awards Highlights 2024 (Panchayati Raj)

PIBNational Panchayat Awards · 73rd Amendment · SDG Alignment

Illustration for National Panchayat Awards Highlights 2024 (Panchayati Raj)

What & Where

National Panchayat Awards = annual Union-level recognition for best-performing Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

Celebrated each 24 April (National Panchayati Raj Day), marking the 73rd Constitutional Amendment 1992.

2024 edition in New Delhi; 45 Panchayats rewarded for inclusive growth and sustainable rural governance.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Amendment 73 inserted Articles 243 & Eleventh Schedule, granting PRIs constitutional status.
Awards integrate SDG targets through localized Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) framework.
Objective boosts competition, transparency, grassroots service quality.

Award Categories

DDUPSVP selects top 3 Gram Panchayats under each of 9 LSDG themes.
Nanaji Deshmukh award crowns top 3 GPs, Block & District Panchayats overall.
Special puraskars honour renewable energy, carbon neutrality, institutional capacity building.

Tech & Schemes

SVAMITVA drones map village properties, issuing “Record of Rights” since 2020.
e-Gram Swaraj handles work-based accounting; linked with PFMS for fund tracking.
mActionSoft geo-tags assets; Citizen Charter portal ensures “Meri Panchayat Mera Adhikaar” service delivery.

Environmental Impact

Carbon Neutral award incentivises afforestation, waste-to-energy, eco-friendly Panchayat operations.
Gram Urja Swaraj promotes decentralized solar, biogas, micro-hydel adoption.
Climate action woven into Panchayat planning via LSDG theme post-2022 revamp.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Administering body	Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Award day	24 April every year
Constitutional base	73rd Amendment, Part IX
Revamp year	2022
Evaluation tiers	Block → District → State/UT → National
Thematic pillars	9 Localization of SDGs
2024 total awardees	45 Panchayats
Flagship overall award	Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar
Theme-wise award	Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar
Renewable energy award	Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar
Net-zero award	Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar
Capacity-building award	Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sansthan Puraskar

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2006PYQ 1

With reference to the Government of India’s various programmes, what is Nirmal Gram Puraskar?

GS-2PolityQuick Bite

3.Proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory (Autonomous Territory)

The HinduENPO · Frontier Nagaland · Autonomy Demand

Illustration for Proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory (Autonomous Territory)

What & Where

Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT): proposed autonomous administrative unit in six eastern Nagaland districts.

Covers Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, Tuensang—≈30 % of state’s population.

Sought to correct development deficit via executive, legislative, financial powers.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Autonomy proposal stops short of separate state; special territorial administration under MHA.
Powers envisaged mirror Sixth Schedule–style grassroots control without altering external boundaries.
Legislative package expected to be tabled after state consultation.

Developmental Gap

Eastern districts rank lowest on roads, health, education indices within Nagaland.
ENPO cites chronic fund diversion to urban west; seeks ring-fenced resource allocation.
Special grants likely channelled through upcoming FNT council.

Demographic Weight

Seven recognised Naga tribes concentrated here, strengthening cultural claim.
20 assembly MLAs give bargaining leverage despite economic marginalisation.
Large, contiguous geography eases administrative bifurcation.

Historical Timeline

1947–1963: Area part of Assam; became Nagaland state in 1963.
2010: ENPO submits first memorandum for “Frontier Nagaland” statehood.
2025: Centre agrees in-principle to create FNT autonomy model.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Demanding body	Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO)
Union ministry nod	Ministry of Home Affairs, Jan 2025
Districts covered	6 (Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, Tuensang)
% of state population	≈30 %
Assembly seats held	20 / 60
Resident tribes	Konyak, Khiamniungan, Chang, Sangtam, Tikhir, Phom, Yimkhiung
Autonomy sought	Executive, Legislative, Financial
Demand launched	2010
Existing statehood	Nagaland since 1 Dec 1963 (State of Nagaland Act 1962)

GS-3Economy

4.India-Singapore Semiconductor Collaboration (Semiconductor Manufacturing)

The HinduSemiconductor · Wafer Fabrication · Singapore GDP Share

What & Where

Semiconductors – materials whose conductivity is controllable; backbone of chips used in electronics, AI, 5G, defence.

Core hubs – Singapore’s four wafer-fab parks (374 ha); India’s upcoming Dholera fab zone, Gujarat.

Focus nodes – Singapore strong in 28 nm+; India targeting sub-10 nm via new collaborations.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Market– Indian chip demand forecast to quadruple to USD 63 bn by 2026.
Cost-advantage– Lower labour/ops costs position India as China-plus-one destination.
Price-trend– Semiconductor manufacturing import price index up 4.9 % (2021) + 2.4 % (2022).

Government Schemes

Mission– India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) anchors policy, incentives, infrastructure.
Production-links– Semiconductor Fab Scheme, Display Fab Scheme, SPECS subsidise capex up to 50 %.
Event– Annual Semicon India Program markets ecosystem to global investors.

International Partnerships

MoUs– Signed with USA, Japan, EU for supply-chain resilience, R&D, talent exchange.
Industry– Powerchip (Taiwan) + Tata building 300 mm fab at Dholera.
Education– IISc–TSMC, IIT Madras “Shakti” processor spur indigenous design.

Challenges

Capital– Fab setup exceeds USD 10 bn; investors wary of long ROI cycles.
Skills– Shortage of fab-ready engineers, technicians; need specialised micro-electronics curricula.
Competition– Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia already attracting first-wave chip investments.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Singapore sector share	8 % of its GDP
Singapore world chip output	≈10 %
Global wafer-fab capacity in Singapore	5 %
Semiconductor equipment from Singapore	20 % of world total
India market size (2024)	USD 52 bn
India market projection 2030	USD 103.4 bn
India import dependence	85 % of demand
Chip imports (2022)	USD 5.36 bn
Chip exports (2022)	USD 0.52 bn
Global industry value 2030	≈USD 1 trillion
Talent gap (India)	>1 million professionals by 2025
GHG share of global semiconductors	31 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 1

Which state is home to India’s first Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductor manufacturing plant?

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 2

Dholera and Sanand in Gujarat are in news for setting up

GS-3Economy

5.Initiatives to Revive Rubber Sector (Natural Rubber Policy)

BLiSNR · INR Konnect · National Rubber Policy

Illustration for Initiatives to Revive Rubber Sector (Natural Rubber Policy)

What & Where

Natural Rubber: elastic latex from Hevea brasiliensis; tropical Amazon origin, now plantation crop in humid India.

Key Schemes: iSNR traceability system, INR Konnect adoption platform, mRube digital market—launched by Rubber Board 2024-25.

Core Geography: >90 % output Kerala; next Tripura; expansion pushed in NE hill states.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

iSNR enables geo-tagged certificates meeting EU Deforestation Regulation for tyres, gloves, etc.
INR Konnect links absentee-owned untapped holdings (20-25 %) with growers, raising productivity.
mRube e-platform standardises bid, billing, logistics for transparent NR trade.

Legal & Policy

National Rubber Policy 2019 covers value chain, area expansion, quality, 100 % FDI.
EUDR seen by India as non-tariff barrier; proof of deforestation-free origin mandatory.
Policy seeks NR recognised as agricultural product for subsidy, insurance access.

Trade & Markets

Imports surge on domestic shortfall; synthetic-rubber mix keeps tyre industry afloat.
EU regulation slowing India-EU FTA talks; possible replication by other blocs.
Subsidy hike planned in phases to offset price crash, high tapping costs.

Agronomy

High-yield clones, high-density planting, lateral tapping recommended for >2 t/ha output.
Mixed farming model with banana, pineapple suggested for smallholders.
R&D focus: disease-resistant, climate-resilient varieties via Rubber Research Institute.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Governing body	Rubber Board, Min. Commerce & Industry
Rubber Act year	1947
India’s NR rank	3rd producer, 4th consumer
Kerala share	>90 % domestic production
2022-23 NR import	5,28,677 t (mainly Indonesia, Thailand)
2022-23 NR export	3,700 t (mainly USA)
EUDR emission aim	−32 mn t CO₂ eq/yr
NRP target output	2 mn t by 2030
Ideal climate	20-35 °C; >200 cm rainfall
Main soil need	Loamy/laterite, sloping terrain

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2004PYQ 1

Assertion (A): India does not export natural rubber.

GS-1History

6.Kalaripayattu Martial Art Heritage (Martial Arts)

Indian ExpressKalaripayattu · Parasurama · Maippayattu

Illustration for Kalaripayattu Martial Art Heritage (Martial Arts)

What & Where

Martial-art; Kerala origin; integrates combat, physical conditioning, healing traditions.

Geography; dominant in Malabar belt, now pan-South India; “Kalari” arena + “Payattu” fight.

Techniques; Maippayattu drills, Kolthari wooden arms, Angathari metal arms, Verumkai bare-hand.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Roots

Antiquity; cited among world’s oldest combat systems.
Etymology; Sanskrit-Malayalam fusion reflecting battlefield pedagogy.
Royal patronage; flourished under Chera and Zamorin rulers.

Training Spectrum

Conditioning; stretches, jumps enhance flexibility, reflexes.
Weapon progression; start wooden, graduate to metal for discipline.
Healing; Kalari-based Ayurveda, massage for injury recovery.

Policy & Recognition

Intangible Heritage; Culture Ministry 2009 inscription safeguards practice.
Sports Governance; yet to secure full medal status in National Games.
Revival schemes; Kerala govt funds Kalari academies, school clubs.

Gender Aspect

Tradition; women like Unniyarcha celebrated in ballads.
Contemporary; female gurus, national performers gaining visibility.
Empowerment; self-defence curricula in Kerala girls’ schools.

Current Controversy

38th National Games; relegation sparks cultural pushback.
Demand; practitioners seek medal inclusion, equal footing with other indigenous arts.
State response; Kerala Sports Council lobbying IOA for upgrade.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
State of origin	Kerala
Mythic founder	Sage Parasurama
Intangible Cultural Heritage list	National ICH, 2009
Weapon tiers	Kolthari, Angathari, Verumkai
Body-prep module	Maippayattu
National Games 2024	Only demonstration sport
Historical female trainees	Yes, uninterrupted
Language of term	Malayalam

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2014PYQ 1

With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is ‘Kalaripayattu’?

ESE_GS, GS1 2021PYQ 2

The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has recently approved the inclusion of four indigenous games to be part of Khelo India Youth Games 2021. Which one of the following is NOT included ?

GS-1History

7.Konark Sun Temple Architecture Highlights (Konark Sun Temple)

New Indian ExpressKonark · Surya Chariot · Ganga Dynasty

Illustration for Konark Sun Temple Architecture Highlights (Konark Sun Temple)

What & Where

Konark Sun Temple – 13th-century Kalinga-style sandstone shrine to Surya, conceived as colossal stone chariot.

Sits on Odisha’s coast (Puri district), ~35 km from Bay-side Puri town; once aligned with sunrise over Bay of Bengal.

Celebrated for 24 carved wheels, 7 horse motifs, intricate iconography; epitome of Eastern Ganga Empire power.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Context

Ganga dynasty zenith; temple signified military victory over Muslim rulers.
Showcased regional maritime prosperity via coastal placement.

Architectural Highlights

Vimana once ~70 m high; jagamohan still stands with pyramidal tiers.
Sculptures depict celestial dancers, erotic maithuna, mythical lions-elephants guardians.
Precision stone-spokes double as sundials indicating time.

Cultural & Tourism Angle

Annual Chandrabhaga festival, Konark Dance festival leverage natmandir setting.
Attracts global visitors; recent visit by Singapore President underscored soft-power value.

Conservation Issues

1903 British sand-filling saved jagamohan from collapse.
ASI uses chemical consolidation to combat saline winds and water ingress.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Century built	13th C (1238–1264 CE)
Patron king	Narasimha Deva I
Dynasty	Eastern Ganga
Wheels on chariot	24 (≈3 m diameter)
Horses pulling chariot	7
Principal sanctum (vimana)	Shikhara collapsed 19th C
Key halls	Natmandir (dance), Jagamohan (audience)
Primary material	Khondalite sandstone
UNESCO tag year	1984 (World Heritage Site)
Symbolism	Wheels = hours; horses = days of week

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

With reference to the history of Orissa, consider the following statements:

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2006PYQ 2

Indian Airlines (now renamed ‘Indian’) have redesigned their logo which is a graphic wheel. This logo has been inspired from which one of the following?

GS-1Misc

8.Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Winners (Traditional Sports)

PIBKho Kho · World Cup 2025 · Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium

Illustration for Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Winners (Traditional Sports)

What & Where

First-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025 hosted at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, India

Organised by Kho Kho Federation of India with International Kho Kho Federation support

Seven-a-side, fast-format matches mirrored Ultimate Kho Kho league

Quick Facts for MCQs

Organisation & Governance

IKKF mission global promotion, rule standardisation, event coordination with national bodies
KKFI responsible domestic execution, facility management, stakeholder liaison

Tournament Structure

Group stage had four pools, top two each advanced to knockouts
Knockout bracket followed single-elimination quarter, semi, final sequence

Mascots & Symbolism

Tejas denotes brilliance, energy; Tara symbolizes guidance, aspiration; both depicted as gazelles

Performance Highlights

India clinched both titles against Nepal, asserting dominance in debut world stage

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Edition	Inaugural, 2025
Host city	New Delhi
Venue	Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium
Organising bodies	KKFI & IKKF
IKKF HQ	New Delhi
IKKF set-up year	2018
Men’s champion	India
Men’s runner-up	Nepal
Men’s final score	54-36
Women’s champion	India
Women’s runner-up	Nepal
Women’s final score	78-40
Tournament stages	Group (round-robin) → Quarter → Semi → Final
Team size on field	7 a side
Mascot (men)	Tejas-blue gazelle
Mascot (women)	Tara-orange gazelle

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Consider the following statements in respect of the first Kho Kho World Cup:

GEO_GS, GS1 2025PYQ 2

The host country of the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, 2025 is

GS-1Mapping

9.Mount Ibu and Lake Naivasha Locations (Volcano & Lake)

The HinduMount Ibu · Lake Naivasha · Halmahera Island

Illustration for Mount Ibu and Lake Naivasha Locations (Volcano & Lake)

What & Where

Mount Ibu – highly active stratovolcano on NW Halmahera Island, North Maluku, Indonesia.

Lake Naivasha – freshwater Rift-Valley lake in Nakuru County, Kenya; fed chiefly by Malewa & Gilgil Rivers.

Jan 2025: Ibu logged >1,000 eruptions; Naivasha fisheries stressed by invasive water hyacinth.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Volcanic Activity

January 2025 tally crosses 1,000 eruptions signalling persistent Strombolian bursts
Ash plumes create aviation warning zones around Halmahera airspace
Indonesia situated on Pacific Ring of Fire enabling frequent stratovolcanism

Invasive Species Impact

Water hyacinth mats block sunlight, deoxygenate water, stressing fish stocks
Thick growth impedes boat movement, slashing fisherfolk earnings
Management options include manual removal, biocontrol weevils, nutrient-runoff curbs

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Stratovolcano name	Mount Ibu
Island & province	Halmahera, North Maluku, Indonesia
Jan 2025 eruption count	>1,000 events
Lake name	Lake Naivasha
Country & tectonic setting	Kenya, Great Rift Valley
Principal inflows	Malewa River; Gilgil River
Key ecological threat	Water hyacinth infestation

GS-3Species

10.Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Concerns (Olive Ridley Turtle)

Indian ExpressOlive Ridley · Arribada · Schedule I WPA

Illustration for Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Concerns (Olive Ridley Turtle)

What & Where

Smallest, abundant sea turtle; famed for synchronized mass-nesting ‘arribadas’.

Tropical Pacific, Indian, Atlantic Oceans; Indian hotspots — Gahirmatha & Rushikulya (Odisha), Chennai coast.

Both pelagic-coastal; India nesting window November–March on sandy beaches.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Schedule I confers highest protection; hunting, trade invite stringent penalties.
Appendix I CITES prohibits international commercial trade in specimens/derivatives.
Tamil Nadu Forest Dept & NGOs patrol beaches during Nov–Mar nesting season.

Mortality Drivers

Trawler bycatch: trapped turtles suffocate without surface air.
Ghost nets, debris cause entanglement; vessel propellers inflict fatal injuries.
Overfishing crowds trawlers near congregation zones, escalating collisions and habitat disruption.

Biological Traits

Arribada: thousands nest together, swamping predators, boosting hatchling survival odds.
Pelagic-coastal life enables vast oceanic foraging yet natal-beach fidelity.
Powerful lungs support repeated 500-ft dives while hunting benthic crustaceans.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scientific name	Lepidochelys olivacea
Shell colour	Olive-green, heart-shaped
Diving depth	≈ 500 ft to sea-floor
Diet	Omnivorous: crabs, jellyfish, algae
Indian nesting season	Nov – Mar
Mass-nesting sites (India)	Gahirmatha & Rushikulya, Odisha
Mass-nesting term	Arribada
Legal status (India)	Schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act 1972
CITES listing	Appendix I
Major TN 2024 deaths	Trawler-net bycatch

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

Operation Olivia, an initiative to protect Olive Ridley turtles, is undertaken by

GS1, NDA_GAT 2017PYQ 2

In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?

GS-3EnvironmentQuick Bite

11.Fonio Millet Climate Resilience (Climate-Resilient Millet)

Down to EarthFonio · West African Millet · Miracle Grain

What & Where

Fonio ancient West African millet, chiefly Ghana, famed for climate-shock resilience and poor-soil tolerance

Traditionally cultivated by Fulani, Africa’s largest nomadic tribe, across arid and semi-arid zones

Indian parallels include sikiya of Baiga tribe in Madhya Pradesh and raishan of Meghalaya

Quick Facts for MCQs

Agronomic Traits

Drought resilience enables cultivation with minimal irrigation
Grows on nutrient poor, sandy or rocky Sahelian soils
Short growth cycle suits climate shock adaptation

Cultural & Tribal Links

Fulani communities rely on Fonio as staple and heritage crop
Baiga tribe in MP favors sikiya paralleling Fonio usage
Nomadic cultivation supports pastoral mobility

Market & Policy Trends

Profit oriented farmers shifting to pineapple undermine millet revival
UN 2023 Millets year aimed at global awareness and diversification
Fonio positioned as climate smart, nutritionally dense export niche

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Crop family	Ancient West African millet Fonio
Key region	Ghana and wider Sahel belt
Traditional growers	Fulani nomads
Climate tolerance	Thrives in arid, semi-arid areas; poor soils; minimal water
UN observance 2023	International Year of Millets
Indian analogues	Sikiya (Baiga, MP); Raishan (Meghalaya)
Culinary forms	Salads, porridge, pasta, bread, side dish
Neglect example	Pineapple cultivation replacing millets in Odisha’s Niyamgiri hills

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

12.Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak Tanzania (Marburg Virus)

Down to EarthMarburg Virus · Hemorrhagic Fever · Kagera Region

Illustration for Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak Tanzania (Marburg Virus)

What & Where

Disease: Marburg virus disease—acute, filovirus-borne hemorrhagic fever with ≤89 % fatality.

Reservoir: Egyptian fruit bat; human spread via direct contact with infected body fluids.

Outbreak: Suspected cluster in Kagera region, north-western Tanzania, East Africa.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Clinical Features

Incubation 2–21 days; abrupt high fever, severe malaise.
Progression: multi-organ dysfunction, internal/external bleeding, shock.
Case fatality historically 24–89 %; no licensed vaccine/antivirals.

Transmission & Reservoir

Spillover: mines/caves inhabited by Egyptian fruit bats.
Secondary spread: blood, vomit, saliva, funeral rites, contaminated objects.
Risk group: healthcare workers without strict barrier nursing.

Regional Geography

Neighbours: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique.
Coastline along western Indian Ocean; includes Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia islands.
Kagera sits near Lake Victoria—world’s 2nd-largest freshwater lake.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Causative agent	Marburg virus (Filoviridae)
Natural reservoir	Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus)
Reported fatality	Up to 89 %
Diagnostic test	RT-PCR
Key symptoms	Fever, headache, haematemesis, bleeding
Approved treatment	None; supportive care only
Affected region	Kagera, Tanzania
Tanzania borders	8 countries + Indian Ocean
Great Lakes touched	Victoria, Tanganyika, Nyasa

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

13.ISRO Third Launch Pad Approval (Launch Infrastructure)

PIBThird Launch Pad · Satish Dhawan · Sriharikota

Illustration for ISRO Third Launch Pad Approval (Launch Infrastructure)

What & Where

Third Launch Pad (TLP) sanctioned at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Purpose: launch heavier NGLV & LVM3 (semi-cryogenic) up to 30,000 t payload into Low-Earth Orbit.

Complements First & Second Launch Pads; answers need for crewed lunar/BAS missions.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Vehicles

NGLV: modular, semi-cryogenic stages, scalable for heavier crew/cargo.
LVM3: heaviest operational, will employ semi-cryogenic stage in future.
Semi-cryogenic: kerosene-LOX, higher thrust, lower cost than cryogenic.

Infrastructure Expansion

Sriharikota: now 3 pads enabling parallel mission processing.
Kulasekarapattinam: coastal geometry allows straight southward launches.
Capacity boost: essential for commercial, strategic and human-spaceflight cadence.

Future Roadmap

Crewed-lunar, BAS timelines demand >LVM3 lift; TLP tailored accordingly.
Commercial small-sat demand met via dedicated Tamil Nadu port.
Vision aligns with Atmanirbhar space tech & export-oriented launch services.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch pad number	Third Launch Pad (TLP)
Cabinet approval	Jan 2025
Location	SDSC, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
Max LEO payload	30,000 t (as per PIB)
Supported vehicles	NGLV, LVM3 (semi-cryogenic), scaled-up NGLV
Existing FLP role	PSLV, SSLV launches
Existing SLP role	GSLV, LVM3; backup PSLV
Chandrayaan-3 launch pad	Second Launch Pad
Gaganyaan prep pad	Second Launch Pad
Crewed lunar landing target	2040
Bharatiya Antariksh Station	2035
Second national launchport	Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu
Kulasekarapattinam focus	Commercial/on-demand SSLVs; avoids Sri Lanka dog-leg
Foundation stone (2nd port)	2024

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2018PYQ 1

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

GS-2Editorial

14.Jaishankar Five-Point Global Agenda (Global Governance Reform)

The HinduFive-Point Agenda · BRICS Kazan · UN Reform

What & Where

Concept: Jaishankar’s 5-point agenda for a South-friendly, multipolar order

Unveiled: BRICS Outreach, Kazan (Russia), 24 Oct 2024

Scope: Global governance, economy, infrastructure, technology transfer, connectivity

Quick Facts for MCQs

Agenda Components

Expanding platforms: Empower BRICS, G20, other South-led forums as policy shapers
Reforming institutions: Push UNSC expansion, MDB voting shifts toward emerging economies
Democratising economy: Build regional production hubs, resilient supply chains beyond COVID shocks

Rationale

Global imbalances: Health, food, energy benefits unevenly shared
Marginalised Global South: Limited voice in UN, Bretton Woods bodies
SDG lag: Outdated cooperation frameworks slowing 2030 targets

Challenges

Institutional resistance: P-5 reluctance blocks UNSC overhaul
Economic protectionism: Trade wars undercut diversified supply chains
Geopolitical rivalries: Major-power contests stall consensus on multipolarity

Way Ahead

South-South alliances: Leverage BRICS+, G77, IBSA for collective bargaining
Digital sharing: Export India Stack, Solar Alliance models for scalable solutions
Resilient infrastructure: Finance diversified, sovereignty-respecting connectivity corridors

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch platform	BRICS Outreach Session
Host city & year	Kazan, 2024
Total action points	Five
Core objective	Equitable multipolar world
Example Indian export	Digital Public Infrastructure-UPI
Connectivity principle	Respect territorial integrity & sovereignty

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15.BRICS Expansion and Partner Countries (BRICS Expansion)

The HinduBRICS · Nigeria Partner · New Development Bank

What & Where

Grouping; BRICS is an inter-governmental economic bloc formed 2009, spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America.

Process; presidencies rotate yearly, decisions via leader summits, no permanent headquarters.

Geography; 10 full members across 4 continents, latest addition Indonesia (2025).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Evolution Timeline

2006 inception during G8 Outreach; dialogue among emerging economies.
2009 first formal summit, articulated reform of global governance.
2014 Fortaleza Summit created New Development Bank to fund infrastructure.

Membership Categories

Full members: 10 countries; voting rights, summit participation.
Partner nations: Nigeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan.
Invitee status: Saudi Arabia yet to complete accession.

Institutional Mechanisms

Presidency; rotates annually, chairs all ministerial tracks.
NDB funding; infrastructure, sustainable projects within and beyond BRICS.
Outreach; South-South cooperation platform to coordinate UN, IMF reforms.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Formal launch year	2009 (Yekaterinburg Summit)
Original acronym	BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China)
South Africa entry	2010, acronym became BRICS
2023 expansion list	Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, United Arab Emirates
Latest full member	Indonesia, joining 2025
Pending invitee	Saudi Arabia (not yet joined)
Partner nations count	9
Newest partner	Nigeria, admitted 2024
Development arm	New Development Bank, set up 2014
Permanent headquarters	None; rotational presidency model

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16.India-EU Strategic Cooperation Overview (India-EU Partnership)

The HinduIndia-EU Trade · FDI 17% · Indo-Pacific

Illustration for India-EU Strategic Cooperation Overview (India-EU Partnership)

What & Where

Partnership: India–EU Strategic Partnership (2004), guided by 2020 Roadmap to 2025 and Trade & Technology Council (TTC).

Geography: EU’s 27 European states engage India across Indo-Pacific, Indian Ocean sea-lanes and Gulf of Guinea.

Process: Broad-based Trade & Investment Agreement (BTIA/FTA) talks since 2007, aiming tariff cuts, standards alignment and supply-chain security.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Market: EU largest bloc; India projected 3rd-largest economy by 2030, offering reciprocal market, capital, jobs.
Investment: Green tech, textiles, electronics flagged for EU capital; joint ventures eyed in pharma, critical minerals.
Supply-chains: Diversification agenda aims reduced China dependence, leveraging India’s manufacturing scale.

Security Dimension

Maritime: ESIWA initiative plus Indian naval expansion secure Indian Ocean sea-lanes against Chinese presence.
Exercise: 2023 Gulf-of-Guinea drill signalled first operational cooperation on piracy and maritime domain awareness.
Defence: Submarine (France) and C-295 aircraft (Spain) projects exist, yet tech-transfer limits persist.

Trade Hurdles

Standards: EU carbon border tax, labour and environment clauses challenge Indian exporters.
IPR: Stricter EU rules clash with India’s generic-drug affordability model.
Autonomy: India’s Russia neutrality and EU China trade complicate unified Indo-Pacific stance.

Tech & Climate

Innovation: Collaboration sought in AI, quantum, biotech; TTC designed to mirror US-India iCET model.
Energy: Joint financing of solar, EVs, sustainable agriculture aligns with EU 55 % emission-cut by 2030.
Cybersecurity: Coordinated response eyed to counter authoritarian tech influence and protect democratic infrastructure.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
EU founding year	1951 (Treaty of Paris)
Current EU members	27
India-EU goods trade 2023-24	USD 137.41 bn
India-EU services trade 2023	USD 51.45 bn
EU share in India FDI inflow	~17 %
FTA negotiation start	2007
Trade & Technology Council launch	2023
First India-EU naval exercise	2023, Gulf of Guinea
EU climate-neutral target	2050
Non-EU Schengen states	Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein

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17.Multilateral Naval Exercise La Perouse (Naval Exercise)

ITLa Perouse · Malacca Strait · Charles de Gaulle

What & Where

Multilateral naval drill La Perouse 2025, led by France, boosts maritime security and interoperability.

Held in Malacca, Sunda & Lombok Straits—vital connectors between Indian & Pacific Oceans.

Features French Carrier Strike Group with aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and eight partner navies.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Deterrence; addresses illegal trafficking, environmental hazards, maritime crises
Promotes rules-based order aligning with SAGAR vision
Enhances combined maritime surveillance, air ops, interdiction drills

Strategic Chokepoints

Malacca Strait handles ~30 % global trade, vital SLOC for East Asia energy imports
Sunda & Lombok provide alternate routes circumventing Malacca congestion
Exercise signals commitment to freedom of navigation in Indo-Pacific crossroads

Technology & Systems

IORIS platform enables real-time vessel tracking, shared COP, synchronized crisis response
Carrier-borne Rafale-M, P-8I, MH-60R employed for anti-surface and ASW drills
Emphasis on C4ISR integration ensures plug-and-play interoperability

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Exercise type	Multilateral naval drill
Host country	France
2025 participants	India, U.S., Canada, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, U.K., France
Key straits	Malacca, Sunda, Lombok
Flagship vessel	Aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle
Interoperability tool	IORIS platform
Indian doctrine link	SAGAR vision

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18.Internet Governance Internship Scheme Launch (Digital Governance)

News on AirNIXI · Internet Governance · Internship

What & Where

Internet Governance Internship & Capacity Building Scheme: bi-annual NIXI programme to groom Indian tech-policy talent.

Two internship tracks (6-month / 3-month) with expert mentorship, ₹20k monthly stipend, outreach projects.

Operates pan-India; anchored by National Internet Exchange of India (Section 8 Co., under MeitY).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Institutional Setup

Not-for-profit status; revenue reinvested in national internet infrastructure.
Governed under Companies Act 2013 Section 8; promotes public-interest connectivity.
Functions under administrative control of Ministry of Electronics & IT.

Tech & Schemes

IPv6 Expert Panel (IP Guru) guides entities on migration from IPv4.
NIXI Academy offers e-learning on IPv6, DNS, cyber hygiene.
NIXI-IP-INDEX publicly tracks Indian & global IPv6 adoption metrics.

Digital Infrastructure

Internet Exchange Points optimise intra-India data flow, lower international bandwidth dependency.
.IN Registry strengthens national digital identity; IRINN allocates IP addresses.
NIXI Data Centres provide secure domestic hosting and storage support.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch agency	National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI)
Parent ministry	MeitY
Scheme nature	Bi-annual internship on Internet Governance
Internship tracks	6-month & 3-month
Monthly stipend	₹20,000
Mentorship partners	ICANN, IEEE & other I-Star orgs
Core focus	Digital policy, IPv6, internet governance outreach
NIXI incorporation	19 Jun 2003, Section 8 (Companies Act 2013)
Key registries	.IN domain, IRINN (IPv4/IPv6)
IXP role	Routes domestic traffic, cuts latency

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19.QS World Future Skills Index Ranking (Skill Development)

Indian ExpressQS Index · Skills Fit · Academic Readiness

Illustration for QS World Future Skills Index Ranking (Skill Development)

What & Where

QS World Future Skills Index by UK-based QS gauges national readiness for evolving global job markets

Methodology spans four pillars: Skills Fit, Academic Readiness, Economic Transformation, Future of Work

India ranks 25th in 2025 edition, classified as a “future-skills contender”

Quick Facts for MCQs

Indicator Scores

Future-of-Work rank 2; AI-digital-green readiness high
Academic-Readiness rank 26; innovation alignment moderate
Skills-Fit 37 and Economic-Transformation 40 signal sizable education-industry gap

Policy Initiatives

Skill India Mission umbrellas PMKVY, SANKALP, STRIVE for industry-linked training
15,000+ ITIs plus Thematic Hubs nurture regional skilling ecosystems
Green Skill Development Programme and Skill Council for Green Jobs build climate-centric competencies

Global Context

United States leads Future-of-Work; India tagged future-skills contender
QS, London-based analytics firm, introduced index in 2025
Index benchmarks innovation, sustainability, talent pipelines across 100+ economies

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Index creator	Quacquarelli Symonds (QS)
Index edition	2025
Total indicators	4
India overall rank	25
India category	Future Skills Contender
India Future of Work rank	2
India Academic Readiness rank	26
India Skills Fit rank	37
India Economic Transformation rank	40
Top Future of Work country	United States

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