Wednesday, 22 January 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: During the Indian Freedom Struggle, who of the following raised an army called ‘Free Indian Legion’?

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

Q: Which party was founded by Subhash Chandra Bose in the year 1939 after he broke away from the Congress?

The correct answer is (a) Indian Freedom Party. This question appeared in GS1 2005.

Q: The maiden Indian Navy – European Union Naval Force (IN-EUNAVFOR) Exercise (2021) was conducted in

The correct answer is (d) Gulf of Aqaba. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: रक्षा अनुसंधान एवं विकास संगठन (DRDO) का एक अंग, भारत के गैस टरबाइन अनुसंधान स्थापना (GTRE) ने एक एयरो-इंजन विकसित किया है जो संभवतः भारत को एयरो-इंजन प्रौद्योगिकी में आत्मनिर्भर बनाएगा। इस इंजन का नाम क्या है?

The correct answer is (a) गंगा. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: भारत के सैन्य आयुध (military arsenal) के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं?

The correct answer is (a) केवल 1 और 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: Once considered ninth planet of the solar system, Pluto is today listed as the largest dwarf planet of the solar system.

The correct answer is (a) Once considered ninth planet of the solar system,. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2022.

Q: Consider the following statements :

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2009.

Q: Which of the following statements about the Indus Waters Treaty is/are correct?

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

Q: भारतीय कंप्यूटर आपातकालीन प्रतिक्रिया दल (CERT-In) द्वारा जारी किए गए नवीनतम दिशानिर्देशों के संदर्भ में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

The correct answer is (a) केवल 1. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI 2022.

Q: 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?

The correct answer is (a) विश्व आर्थिक मंच (World Economic Forum). This question appeared in CAPF_GAI 2025.

19 topicsGS-1: 6GS-2: 6GS-3: 7

0/19 done

GS-2Polity

1.Unified Legislative Digital Platform (Legislative Digitisation)

News on AirOne Nation One Legislative Platform · AIPOC · Presiding Officers Conference

What & Where

AIPOC – apex body of Indian legislatures; instituted 1921 in Shimla to gather presiding officers.

85ᵗʰ AIPOC convened 2025 at Bihar Legislature Complex, Patna.

One Nation, One Legislative Platform – upcoming single digital portal interlinking Parliament, state houses & local bodies.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legislative Coordination

Synchronisation – AIPOC enhances Parliament–State synergy, sharing best practices across 36 legislatures.
Accountability – Resolutions urge strict enforcement of rules to minimise floor disruptions.
Outreach – Public programs planned for Constitution 75ᵗʰ year celebrations.

Tech & Schemes

Integration – Single sign-on portal to host bills, debates, committee reports for all tiers.
Transparency – Live streaming & searchable databases enable citizen monitoring.
Sustainability – Digitisation targets drastic cut in paper and printing costs.

Conference Outcomes

Decorum – Consensus on time-bound disciplinary action against persistent disorder.
Capacity-building – Training modules for MLAs & staff on digital tools announced.
Future agenda – Annual review of platform efficacy to remain a standing item.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
AIPOC first session	1921, Shimla
85ᵗʰ session venue	Patna, Bihar
Host premises	Historic Bihar Legislature
Core AIPOC aim	Curb disruptions & boost debate quality
Constitution milestone flagged	75 years of adoption (2025)
Digital initiative announced	One Nation, One Legislative Platform
Tech tools planned	AI analytics, real-time data feed
Eco angle	Paperless legislatures push
Citizen interface	Open public access to proceedings
Federal principle served	Cooperative federalism via uniform practices

GS-2Polity

2.Sri Lankan Tamil Citizenship Case (Citizenship Issues)

The HinduSri Lankan Tamil refugees · Madras High Court · Citizenship Act 1955

What & Where

Sri Lankan Tamil refugees: Indian-origin plantation workers, fled ethnic strife; ~29,500 still in Tamil Nadu camps.

Citizenship pathways: birth, descent, registration (§5(1)(a)), naturalisation (12-yr stay) under Citizenship Act 1955.

Core geography & fora: Tamil Nadu, Madras HC; bilateral pacts India–Sri Lanka (1964, 1974).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Exclusion: CAA 2019 omits Sri Lankan Tamils; covers only Hindus from Afghanistan-Pakistan-Bangladesh.
Classification: CAA 2003 brands post-1983 arrivals illegal, blocking registration route.
Judicial nudge: Madras HC directs MHA to decide pending refugee citizenship pleas humanely.

Bilateral Pacts

Sirimavo–Shastri 1964: India 5.25 lakh acceptances; Sri Lanka 3 lakh; rollout stalled.
Sirimavo–Indira 1974: addressed leftover 1.5 lakh; execution disrupted by civil war.
Conflict-driven suspension froze documentation and return logistics.

Social Concerns

Statelessness: bars education, jobs, property; passes deprivation across generations.
Camp reality: crowded shelters, limited healthcare, trafficking vulnerability.
Integration strain: porous borders + scarce state funds impede service delivery.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Major influx period	1983-2009 civil war
Current camp population	≈ 29,500 (UNHCR)
Sirimavo–Shastri Pact quota	6 lakh citizenship transfers
CAA 2003 tag	Post-1983 entrants = “illegal migrants”
Naturalisation residency	12 continuous years
Registration clause	§5(1)(a) — 7 yr stay
Key HC cases	P.Ulaganathan 2019; Abirami S. 2022
CAA 2019 cut-off date	31 Dec 2014
India & 1951 Convention	Not a signatory
Constitutional right cited	Article 21 – life & liberty

GS-3EconomyQuick Bite

3.China's Anti-Dumping Duty on Cypermethrin (Anti-Dumping Measures)

Economic TimesCypermethrin · anti-dumping duty · China

What & Where

Cypermethrin; synthetic pyrethroid insecticide employed in crops and household pest control

Source; pyrethroids chemically modelled on natural pyrethrins from Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium flowers

Anti-dumping duty; tariff on under-priced imports, recently invoked by China against Indian cypermethrin

Quick Facts for MCQs

Chemical Profile

Broad-spectrum usage; agriculture, household sprays, pest strips
Quick knock-down; disrupts sodium channels causing insect paralysis
Derived from natural pyrethrins but synthesised for higher stability

Trade Remedy Mechanism

WTO Article VI allows duties when import price undercuts domestic normal value
Duty quantum equals dumping margin; aims to neutralise injury
Indian protocol; DGTR investigation precedes Finance Ministry notification

International Dimension

January 2025; China slapped anti-dumping duty citing substantial injury to local insecticide industry
Move heightens agro-chemical trade friction between Asia’s two largest economies
Possible impact; reduced Indian export revenue, supply shift in Chinese market

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Insecticide class	Synthetic pyrethroid
Natural precursor plant	Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium
Primary toxic action	Neurotoxin attacking insect central nervous system
Key pest targets	Ants, cockroaches, broad farm insects
Imposing country (2025)	China
Exporting country hit	India
Indian probe agency	Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR)
Levying ministry in India	Ministry of Finance
WTO stance on dumping	Treats as unfair trade practice
Duty calculation base	Margin: normal value – export price

GS-3InfrastructureQuick Bite

4.Wind Turbines Along Rail Tracks (Railway Renewable Energy)

Business StandardIndian Railways · vertical-axis turbines · net-zero 2030

Illustration for Wind Turbines Along Rail Tracks (Railway Renewable Energy)

What & Where

Rail-side mini vertical-axis wind turbines mounted along Indian Railways tracks harvest slipstream from moving trains.

Pilot by Western Railway installs 1–10 kW units along its corridor for on-site power.

Initiative supports IR pledge of network-wide net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Design: Mini vertical-axis allows close-track placement without tall masts.
Operation: Utilises aerodynamic slipstream from passing trains, boosting capacity factor near tracks.
Integration: Supplies signalling, lighting, station loads, cutting external grid draw.

Challenges & Risks

Logistics: Installation and O&M need traffic blocks, specialised crews, harder in congested urban stretches.
Safety: Structural failure or debris could endanger rolling stock, passengers, infrastructure.
Wind: Track alignment may not match optimal wind, reducing output and economic viability.

Renewable Capacity Stats

Commissioned: 487 MW solar + 103 MW wind + 100 MW RTC totals 690 MW till Nov 2024.
Pipeline: Additional 2,014 MW renewable capacity sanctioned to bridge remaining demand.
Goal: Renewable build-up anchors 2030 net-zero carbon roadmap for entire rail network.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Pilot zone	Western Railway
Turbine configuration	Mini vertical-axis
Individual turbine output	1–10 kW
Solar commissioned (Nov 2024)	487 MW
Wind commissioned (Nov 2024)	103 MW
RTC renewable commissioned	100 MW
Planned renewable capacity	2,014 MW
Net-zero target year	2030

GS-1Economy

5.Colonial Wealth Extraction Report (Colonial Economy)

Times of IndiaTakers Not Makers · Oxfam International · $64.82 trillion

Illustration for Colonial Wealth Extraction Report (Colonial Economy)

What & Where

Report: “Takers, Not Makers” by Oxfam International on colonial wealth extraction

Focus: British drain from India 1765-1900, links to current North-South inequality

Geography: India as source, United Kingdom as principal beneficiary, Global South vs Global North wage divide

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Drain: Protectionist tariffs crippled Asian textiles, shifted profits to British mills
Deindustrialisation: 23 % point fall in India’s world output share over 150 years
Present: Multinationals replicate extraction via cheap labour, raw-material sourcing

Institutional Critique

WTO, World Bank flagged for rules favouring capital-rich nations over producer economies
Trade architecture seen as extension of colonial mercantilism
Tax evasion and biopiracy cited as new-age extraction tools

Social Concerns

Wealth concentration: Colonial gains enriched UK elites, widened domestic Indian poverty
Wage suppression: Global South labour earns < 13 % of Northern counterparts
Legacy: Enduring education, health gaps traceable to colonial fiscal siphoning

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Releasing body	Oxfam International
Launch venue	World Economic Forum 2025
Colonial period assessed	1765 – 1900
Wealth extracted from India	USD 64.82 trillion (2023 prices)
Share to UK richest 10%	52 % (≈ USD 33.8 trn)
Share to UK middle class	32 %
India industrial output share 1750	25 % of world
India industrial output share 1900	2 % of world
Wage gap South vs North	87 – 95 % lower in South
Oxfam founding year	1942
Oxfam HQ	Oxford, UK
Countries of operation	79

GS-1History

6.Subhas Chandra Bose Legacy Celebrations (Freedom Movement Leaders)

PIBSubhas Chandra Bose · Parakram Diwas · Indian National Army

What & Where

Parakram Diwas = 23 Jan annual homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

2025 gala: 23-25 Jan, Barabati Fort (Cuttack, Odisha – Netaji’s birthplace).

Coincides with 80th death anniversary of INA pioneer Rash Behari Bose (21 Jan 2025).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Events Timeline

1938 Haripura: Bose Congress President, demanded instant Swaraj.
29 Apr 1939: Resigned, launched Forward Bloc after Tripuri rift.
Mar-Jun 1944: INA’s Chalo Delhi drive stalled at Imphal–Kohima.

Organisations & Bodies

Indian National Army: started by Capt Mohan Singh; revitalised by Netaji with Japanese aid.
Indian Independence League: raised 1942 by Rash Behari Bose; leadership ceded to Netaji.
Rani of Jhansi Regiment: women’s combat wing of INA.

Awards & Memorials

Subhas C. Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar: since 2018; ₹51 lakh (institution), ₹5 lakh (individual).
2023 island-naming: honours 21 Param Vir Chakra heroes.
1945-46 INA trials at Red Fort ignited pan-India protests.

Ideological Contrast

Gandhi: non-violence, village-centric economy, varna retention.
Bose: armed struggle, socialist-planned state, caste abolition.
Bose courted Axis help; Gandhi spurned foreign military alliances.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Netaji birth	23 Jan 1897
Parakram Diwas start	2021
2025 edition	128th birthday
First venue	Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
2022 honour	Hologram statue, India Gate
2023 honour	21 A&N islands after PVC awardees
2024 venue	Red Fort, Delhi
INA formation	1942, Singapore
Azad Hind Govt.	Oct 1943, Singapore
SC Bose escape	1941

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2008PYQ 1

During the Indian Freedom Struggle, who of the following raised an army called ‘Free Indian Legion’?

GS1 2005PYQ 2

Which party was founded by Subhash Chandra Bose in the year 1939 after he broke away from the Congress?

GS-1History

7.Medieval Saint Narahari Tirtha (Medieval Saints)

DCNarahari Tirtha · Dvaita philosophy · Simhachalam Temple

Illustration for Medieval Saint Narahari Tirtha (Medieval Saints)

What & Where

Discovery 3 ft stone statue of 13th-c Narahari Tīrtha inside Simhachalam Narasimha temple, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

Narahari Tīrtha (1243-1333) – Dvaita philosopher, Eastern Ganga minister, propagator of Madhva Vaiṣṇavism across Kalinga-Andhra.

Simhachalam temple – 11th-c Kalinga-Dravidian shrine, later enhanced by Vengi Chalukyas and Eastern Ganga king Narasimha I.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Personalities

Aristocrat origin Srikakulam; minister, scholar, temple-administrator under Ganga kings.
Conferred titles for protecting Kalinga land and Dharma adherence.
Samadhi placed at Chakratirtha, Hampi on Tungabhadra banks.

Dynastic Context

Eastern Ganga ruled Kalinga 5th-15th c covering Odisha, Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andhra.
Temple wealth enabled alliances via marriages with Chola, Chalukya houses.
Anantavarman Chodaganga and Narasimha Dev I key temple patrons.

Temple Architecture

Simhachalam features stone chariot, 16-pillar Kalyana Mandapa, intricate Kalinga carvings.
Visited by Vijayanagara emperor Krishna Deva Raya in 1516 CE.
Blend showcases northern Nagara motifs atop southern Dravida vimana.

Cultural Art Forms

Narahari promoted Yakshagana Bayalata in coastal Karnataka.
Supported classical dance evolution leading to Kuchipudi style in Andhra.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Statue height	3 feet
Location	Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam
Saint lifespan	1243-1333 AD
Philosophical school	Dvaita Vedanta
Guru	Madhvacharya
Dynasty served	Eastern Ganga, ~30 yrs
Surviving texts	Gita Bhāṣya; Bhavaprakaśika
First Kannada Devaranama	Credited to Narahari Tīrtha
Temple style	Kalinga + Dravidian
Early temple builder	Gajapati rulers, 11th c
Major renovators	Vengi Chalukyas; Narasimha I
Eastern Ganga capitals	Kalinganagara; Dantapura
Famous Ganga monuments	Puri Jagannath, Konark Sun
Dance forms boosted	Yakshagana Bayalata; proto-Kuchipudi
Honorifics	Loka Surakṣaṇa Ati Nipuṇaḥ; Yo Avati Kalinga Bhu Sambhavān

GS-1MappingQuick Bite

8.Renaming Gulf of Mexico and Denali (Geographical Renaming)

Hindustan TimesGulf of Mexico · Denali · Mount McKinley

Illustration for Renaming Gulf of Mexico and Denali (Geographical Renaming)

What & Where

Gulf of Mexico (proposed “Gulf of America”): planet’s largest gulf; borders US-Mexico-Cuba; opens to Atlantic via Straits of Florida, Caribbean via Yucatán Channel.

Mount McKinley/Denali: 6,190 m Alaskan peak; highest point in North America.

2025 US executive order seeks domestic renaming of both geographic features.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

IHO standardises charts yet permits domestic alternative names; no formal global procedure for renaming waters.
Mexico and Cuba retain “Gulf of Mexico” in maps; existing treaties continue unchanged.

Economic Angle

Gulf infrastructure hosts nearly half US refining and gas-processing capacity, anchoring coastal petro-economy.
Supplies 14 % national crude, 5 % natural gas—vital for energy security and export logistics.

International Examples

Persian Gulf vs Arabian Gulf reflects Iran-Saudi rivalry over historical nomenclature.
Sea of Japan/East Sea debate showcases Korean push against Japanese colonial legacy.
South China Sea naming overlaps intensify ASEAN–China territorial frictions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Date of executive order	22 Jan 2025
New domestic sea name	Gulf of America
International naming body	International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
Countries bordering gulf	United States, Mexico, Cuba
Oil share from gulf (US)	14 % crude production
Gas share from gulf (US)	5 % natural-gas production
Downstream share on coast	48 % refining, 51 % gas-processing capacity
Height of Mount McKinley	6,190 m (20,310 ft)

GS-1Mapping

9.Vaigai River Profile (River Geography)

The HinduVaigai River · Varusanadu Hills · Palk Strait

What & Where

River; east-flowing Vaigai in peninsular Tamil Nadu

Origin; Varusanadu Hills on Periyar Plateau, Western Ghats

Mouth; enters Palk Strait near Pamban Bridge, Ramanathapuram

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

High Court directive; Madurai Bench orders local bodies to craft time-bound Vaigai rejuvenation plan
Actionable timeline; aims pollution control, encroachment removal, sustainable flow
Jurisdiction; directions binding on district and municipal authorities along river course

Hydrology & Infrastructure

Vaigai Dam; pivotal for irrigation, drinking water, hydro storage
Tributary network; seven named streams bolster seasonal discharge
Vattaparai Falls; adds tourism and ecological value to upper reaches

Cultural Heritage

Sangam era; river celebrated as lifeline garlanding ancient Madurai
Kritamaala epithet; denotes river circling city like floral necklace
Thiruvilayadal Puranam; narrates divine acts of Lord Shiva along Vaigai

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
State traversed	Tamil Nadu
Origin point	Varusanadu Hills, Periyar Plateau
Mouth location	Palk Strait, near Pamban Bridge
Major tributaries	Suruliyaru, Mullaiyaru, Varaaga Nadhi, Manjalaru, Kottagudi, Kridhumaal, Upparu
Key dam	Vaigai Dam, Andipatti, Theni district
Notable waterfall	Vattaparai Falls
Ancient name	Kritamaala
Literary mention	Sangam literature c 300 BCE
Mythological text	Thiruvilayadal Puranam
Associated dynasty	Pandya Kingdom

GS-1Mapping

10.Strategic Gulf of Aden-Red Sea (Strategic Waterways)

The HinduGulf of Aden · Red Sea · Bab el Mandeb

What & Where

Gulf of Aden; Indian Ocean arm between Yemen north and Somalia–Socotra south, linking Arabian Sea with Red Sea

Red Sea; semi-enclosed tropical sea between Africa-Asia, joined south by Bab el Mandeb, splitting north into Aqaba & Suez

Bab el Mandeb; 28 km wide chokepoint enabling Suez–Indian Ocean traffic via Gulf of Aden

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Defence Minister; flagged rising piracy, terrorism, regional conflict risk across Red Sea–East Africa arc
India Navy; stepped-up escorts, surveillance around Bab el Mandeb corridor protecting merchantmen
Communication networks; identified as internal-security vulnerability for maritime domain awareness

Physical Geography

Red Sea Rift; active seafloor spreading generating new oceanic crust
Guardafui Channel; conduit between Gulf of Aden and Somali Sea off Cape Guardafui
Socotra Archipelago; Yemen-controlled islands south of Aden, ecological hotspot

Economic Angle

Suez–Bab el Mandeb route; shortest Asia–Europe sea lane, ~7 000 km shorter than Cape route
Disruptions; piracy or conflict hike freight, insurance premiums, delay Indian energy cargos
Maritime trade; corridor carries significant West-bound Indian container and petroleum flows

Workforce & Personnel

Year 2024; observed as Year of Naval Civilians forming ~33 % of Navy staff
Roles; provide technical, administrative, logistics backbone without wearing uniform
Objective; morale boost and deeper integration of specialised civilian expertise

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global seaborne petroleum via Gulf Aden	≈ 10 %
India’s trade through Gulf Aden	≈ USD 110 billion annually
Red Sea tectonic setting	Great Rift Valley; African–Arabian divergent boundary
Bordering Red Sea states	6 – Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, Yemen
Northern offshoots	Gulf of Aqaba & Gulf of Suez
Key connecting strait	Bab el Mandeb links Red Sea-Gulf of Aden
Largest island groups	Farasan (east) ; Dahlak (west)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

The maiden Indian Navy – European Union Naval Force (IN-EUNAVFOR) Exercise (2021) was conducted in

GS-3Species

11.Kashmir Chinar Digital Conservation (Heritage Trees)

New Indian ExpressPlatanus orientalis · Chinar trees · geo-tagging

Illustration for Kashmir Chinar Digital Conservation (Heritage Trees)

What & Where

Kashmir Chinar = Platanus orientalis, heritage broad-leaf tree revered for shade, beauty, cultural symbolism

Native belt Italy-Iran-Himalayas; densest stands in Kashmir Valley, notably Ganderbal & Budgam districts

J&K Forest Research Institute running geo-tagging + QR-code mapping for continuous protection & management

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Geo-tagging pinpoints individual tree coordinates enabling centralised database updates
QR code on trunk lets citizens, officials access live health, history, legal status
Digital inventory aids rapid response during disease, felling or developmental clearance proposals

Threat Factors

Urbanisation causing habitat loss and root damage from construction
Climate change altering rainfall, raising temperature extremes stressing saplings
Illegal felling for timber plus pest & disease outbreaks under weakened conditions

Biophysical Traits

Longevity confers multigenerational canopy, vital for microclimate regulation
Large leaf surface boosts urban pollution absorption and autumn tourism appeal
Deep root system stabilises riverbanks and prevents soil erosion

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scientific name	Platanus orientalis
Common name	Chinar, Oriental plane
Max height	~30 m
Basal girth	10–15 m
Recorded age	>600 years
Preferred climate	Temperate, well-drained soils, ample moisture
Leaf colour cycle	Deep green → red/amber/yellow in autumn
Core Kashmir zones	Ganderbal, Budgam
Digital tools	GPS geo-tag, scannable QR code
Nodal agency	J&K Forest Research Institute (FRI)

GS-3S&T

12.Indigenous Scramjet Engine Test (Hypersonic Propulsion)

PIBScramjet · DRDL · Mach 5+

Illustration for Indigenous Scramjet Engine Test (Hypersonic Propulsion)

What & Where

Scramjet: air-breathing supersonic-combustion ramjet sustaining efficient propulsion at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5+).

Location: 120-sec ground test by DRDL-DRDO, Hyderabad, with industry collaboration.

Uses: hypersonic missiles, reusable launch vehicles, lower-cost satellite access.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Materials

Thermal-Barrier-Coating: ceramic layer tolerates ≥2000 °C, boosts durability.
Endothermic-fuel: absorbs heat, self-cools ducts, aids rapid ignition.
Flame-stabilisation: shock-cavity design sustains combustion within millisecond airflow residence.

Launch & Space

Reusable-launch-vehicles: scramjet phase removes oxidiser mass, enabling single-stage-to-orbit prospects.
Reduced-launch-costs: air-breathing propulsion can trim propellant demand by roughly 60 %.
ISRO-DRDO-synergy: data feeds RLV-TD and Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator projects.

Security Dimension

Hypersonic-missiles: extreme speed and manoeuvrability outpace existing ballistic-missile defences.
Strategic-edge: elevates India into elite hypersonic club, strengthening deterrence calculus.
Defence-exports: future scramjet-powered systems could enhance aerospace export profile.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Test duration	120 seconds ground run
Operating speed	Hypersonic, Mach 5 plus
Oxidiser carriage	None; atmospheric O₂ compressed
Moving parts	Nil; fixed geometry engine
Developed by	DRDL (DRDO) + Indian industry
Indigenous fuel	Endothermic scramjet hydrocarbon
Thermal protection	Advanced Thermal Barrier Coating
Peer nations	USA, Russia, China, India

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

रक्षा अनुसंधान एवं विकास संगठन (DRDO) का एक अंग, भारत के गैस टरबाइन अनुसंधान स्थापना (GTRE) ने एक एयरो-इंजन विकसित किया है जो संभवतः भारत को एयरो-इंजन प्रौद्योगिकी में आत्मनिर्भर बनाएगा। इस इंजन का नाम क्या है?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 2

भारत के सैन्य आयुध (military arsenal) के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं?

GS-3S&T

13.Exercise-Induced Neuronal Growth Mechanisms (Neurobiology Research)

The HinduMIT study · myokines · nerve-muscle crosstalk

Illustration for Exercise-Induced Neuronal Growth Mechanisms (Neurobiology Research)

What & Where

Muscle–nerve crosstalk involves skeletal muscle contractions guiding neuronal growth alongside traditional nerve-to-muscle signalling

Muscle types include Skeletal voluntary striated; Cardiac involuntary striated; Smooth involuntary non-striated

Study conducted by MIT researchers in Cambridge Massachusetts using human cell co-cultures

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physiology Insight

Bidirectionality: contracting muscle releases cues fostering axon elongation while nerves refine muscle strength
Simulated exercise: patterned contractions aligned motor axons and increased branching efficiency

Biochemical Factors

Myokines: exercise elevates secretion markedly accelerating neurite outgrowth and synaptic protein accumulation
Neurotrophins: muscle-derived factors enhance neuronal maturity and functional firing properties

Mechanical Stimuli

Stretch: rhythmic tensile forces from muscle equal chemical cues in promoting axonal length
Synergy: concurrent mechanical plus biochemical inputs yield maximal neuron growth and structural integrity

Nervous System Basics

CNS controls integration; PNS connects body via nerves outside brain and cord
PNS subdivisions: Somatic governs voluntary motion; Autonomic manages involuntary functions like heartbeat and digestion

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Muscle-secreted compound	Myokines
Growth boost by myokines	~4 × neurite extension
Mechanical stimulus source	Contractile force of muscle fibers
CNS organs	Brain and spinal cord
PNS divisions	Somatic & Autonomic

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

14.Pluto-Charon Formation Study (Planetary Science)

Indian ExpressPluto · Charon · Kuiper Belt

Illustration for Pluto-Charon Formation Study (Planetary Science)

What & Where

Pluto–Charon binary; both orbit shared barycentre within distant Kuiper Belt beyond Neptune

Kuiper Belt; cold, icy-body zone analogous to asteroid belt but farther from Sun

Pluto; reclassified 2006 as dwarf planet by International Astronomical Union

Quick Facts for MCQs

Formation Theory

Hypothesis; violent collision created debris coalescing into Charon then mutual gravitational capture
Binary dynamics; barycentre lies between bodies not within Pluto
Impact model echoes Earth–Moon giant-impact but yields closer mass ratio

Space Geography

Location; 39–55 AU zone populated by icy Kuiper Belt Objects
Comparison; Kuiper Belt colder, larger expanse than main asteroid belt
Importance; binary systems rare among Kuiper Belt Objects

Exploration & Discoveries

Mission; NASA New Horizons flyby revealed active geology, nitrogen glaciers, ice mountains
Surface feature; Tombaugh Regio heart-shaped plain prominent in global images
Data altered perception from inert rock to dynamic dwarf planet

Physical Parameters

Composition; ice-rock mixture enabling methane-nitrogen surface ices
Habitability; extreme cold precludes known life processes
Scale; Pluto smaller than Earth’s Moon yet hosts complex atmosphere

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Pluto discovery year	1930
Discoverer	Clyde Tombaugh
Pluto diameter	≈1 400 miles (≈2 377 km)
Orbital period	248 Earth years
Rotation period	153 hours ≈6 Earth days
Surface temperature	–228 °C to –238 °C
Atmosphere gases	Nitrogen, methane, carbon monoxide
Visual atmosphere tint	Blue with haze layers
Pluto moons	Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, Styx
Largest moon size rank	Charon largest relative to parent in solar system
Pluto–Charon relation	Binary system; common centre of mass outside Pluto
Formation hypothesis	Giant impact followed by “kiss-and-capture” mutual orbit

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 1

Once considered ninth planet of the solar system, Pluto is today listed as the largest dwarf planet of the solar system.

GS-2Editorial

15.US Exit from WHO (WHO Governance)

Indian ExpressWHO · US withdrawal · Covid-19 response

What & Where

World Health Organization: UN specialised agency (1948), HQ Geneva; sets norms, coordinates global disease control, emergency response.

U.S. withdrawal: domestic 1948 law allows exit with 1-year notice after paying arrears; WHO Constitution silent.

Operational geography: 194 member states; programmes span pandemics, NCDs, maternal-child health, eradication drives.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Executive Order 2020 halted U.S. funding, recalled personnel, sought alternate partnerships.
WHO decision-making: World Health Assembly (one state-one vote); reforms demanded for transparency, equity.
Governance gap risk: loss of CDC technical inputs on surveillance, IHR implementation.

Financial Impact

Funding-cut risk: ~$400 mn annually; threatens polio endgame, vaccine alliances, ACT-Accelerator.
Reliance dilution: push for diversified pools—philanthropy, multi-partner trust funds, regional blocs.
Budget structure: ≈80 % voluntary, tied to donor priorities; core assessed dues shrinking.

Global Health Programmes

Pandemic preparedness: WHO leads R&D Blueprint, Solidarity Trials, COVAX allocation framework.
Disease-specific wins: Onchocerciasis, Guinea worm near-elimination, HIV guidelines harmonised.
Equity drive: Universal Health Coverage 2030 target, “Health for All” Alma-Ata legacy.

India Angle

Programme support: TB, malaria, HIV, RMNCH+N receive WHO technical & logistical aid.
Guideline adoption: National Immunisation, Ayushman Bharat reference WHO Essential Medicines, cost-effectiveness lists.
Research link: WHO-CCs in AIIMS, ICMR risk reduced joint training, surveillance capacity.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
WHO founding year	7 April 1948
Headquarters	Geneva, Switzerland
Total members	194 states
U.S. share of WHO budget	≈ 20 % (assessed + voluntary)
Statutory notice for U.S. exit	1 year
Iconic success	Smallpox eradicated 1980
Polio reduction	99 % decline since 1988

GS-2Polity

16.Indus Water Treaty Dispute Resolution (Water Treaty)

Times of IndiaIndus Water Treaty · World Bank Neutral Expert · Kishenganga Project

Illustration for Indus Water Treaty Dispute Resolution (Water Treaty)

What & Where

Neutral Expert: World Bank appointee under Annex F ¶7, settles technical Indus-treaty disputes when PIC deadlocks

Disputed schemes: 330 MW Kishenganga on Jhelum tributary & 850 MW Ratle on Chenab, both in J-K/UT

Indus Water Treaty 1960: eastern rivers (Beas, Ravi, Sutlej) to India; western rivers (Indus, Chenab, Jhelum) to Pakistan

Quick Facts for MCQs

Institutional Mechanism

World Bank may pick NE or establish 7-member Court of Arbitration
PIC comprises one commissioner each side; annual meetings mandatory
NE decision final & binding on both parties for referred questions

Hydro Projects

Kishenganga diverting 102 cumecs to Wullar, operational since 2018
Ratle run-of-river dam: 133 m concrete gravity, construction resumed 2021
Pakistan objects to freeboard, spillway & pondage dimensions of both dams

Dispute Resolution Path

Difference → NE; dispute → Court of Arbitration per Articles IX–XII
Either party may seek World Bank intervention after 60 days’ PIC impasse
Parallel processes barred; Bank paused CoA in 2016, revived both tracks 2022

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Treaty year	1960
Signatories	PM Jawaharlal Nehru; President Ayub Khan
Broker & guarantor	World Bank
Oversight body	Permanent Indus Commission
Neutral Expert trigger	PIC fails to agree on technical issue
Current NE status	Declared competent to proceed (2023)
Relevant Annexure	F, Paragraph 7
Court of Arbitration	Next tier if NE route fails
Kishenganga river	Jhelum (western basin)
Ratle river	Chenab (western basin)
India’s full-use rivers	Beas, Ravi, Sutlej
Pakistan’s full-use rivers	Indus, Chenab, Jhelum
Permitted Indian use on western rivers	Non-consumptive, run-of-river hydropower
World Bank’s dual role	Treaty signatory + dispute facilitator

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2009PYQ 1

Consider the following statements :

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 2

Which of the following statements about the Indus Waters Treaty is/are correct?

GS-2SecurityQuick Bite

17.Colombia's Renewed Militia Conflict (Colombian Conflict)

The HinduColombia · guerilla groups · peace process

Illustration for Colombia's Renewed Militia Conflict (Colombian Conflict)

What & Where

Surge in armed clashes among dissident guerillas around Colombia–Venezuela border, especially northern Catatumbo region.

Government has declared nationwide state of emergency and deployed military units.

Epicentre city Tibú, Norte de Santander, hosts shelters for fleeing civilians.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

State of emergency enables swift troop deployment and curfews.
Rival militias seek territorial control for drug-route dominance.
Violence jeopardises fragile post-accord stability.

Peace Process

2016 Marxist–Leninist deal demobilised FARC but left splinter groups active.
Current clashes expose implementation gaps in reintegration & rural security.
Renewed negotiations risk erosion amid civilian displacement.

Geography & Biodiversity

Colombia nicknamed “Gateway to South America”; touches Pacific & Atlantic.
Los Llanos grasslands span eastern plains into Venezuela.
Hosts ~10 % of world fauna on <1 % of Earth’s land.

Economic Angle

Coca cultivation in Catatumbo funds armed factions via cocaine trade.
Drug economy undermines legal rural livelihoods and tax base.
Control of smuggling corridors to Venezuela boosts militia revenues.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Peace Accord period	1964-2016 conflict formally ended 2016
Present warring actors	Guerilla factions that rejected 2016 deal
Strategic asset contested	Coca-leaf plantations (raw input for cocaine)
Refuge hub city	Tibú, Norte de Santander Dept.
Colombia’s global cocaine rank	1st (world’s largest producer)

GS-3Security

18.Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 Highlights (Cybersecurity Report)

Down to EarthWEF · Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 · critical infrastructure

Illustration for Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 Highlights (Cybersecurity Report)

What & Where

Report: Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025, annual WEF study on cyber-risk trends.

Body: World Economic Forum; HQ Geneva; founded 1971 by Klaus Schwab.

Geography: Covers global critical infrastructure; India ranked Tier 1 in ITU-GCI 2024.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Threat Landscape

Vulnerabilities: water, energy, biosecurity, communications, climate systems relying on legacy tech.
Tactics: surge in social engineering, operational-technology attacks, undersea-cable targeting.
Profitability: minimal cost yet USD 12.5 bn losses show high criminal ROI.

Skills & Resilience Gaps

Shortage: two-thirds entities face skill deficits; only 14 % fully staffed.
Region disparity: low incident-response confidence 15 % Europe/N America versus 42 % Latin America.
SMEs: investment tough without state incentives, heightening exposure.

Indian Framework

Laws: IT Act 2000, Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023.
Agencies: CERT-In, NCIIPC, I4C, Cyber Swachhta Kendra handle response, critical infra, crime, hygiene.
Recent steps: Bharat National Cybersecurity Exercise 2024; SEBI & Telecom sector-specific rules.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Publisher of Outlook	World Economic Forum
WEF headquarters	Geneva, Switzerland
WEF founding year	1971
Skills gap estimated	4.8 million cybersecurity professionals
Orgs hit by phishing 2024	42 %
Orgs citing geopolitics impact	60 %
Small firms rating resilience low	35 %
Public bodies lacking talent	49 %
FBI-estimated US cybercrime loss 2023	USD 12.5 billion
India in ITU-GCI 2024	Tier 1 (top bracket)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI 2022PYQ 1

भारतीय कंप्यूटर आपातकालीन प्रतिक्रिया दल (CERT-In) द्वारा जारी किए गए नवीनतम दिशानिर्देशों के संदर्भ में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

CAPF_GAI 2025PYQ 2

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-2Scheme

19.Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Milestones (Girl Child Welfare)

News on AirBBBP · Child Sex Ratio · Sukanya Samriddhi

Illustration for Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Milestones (Girl Child Welfare)

What & Where

Flagship tri-ministerial scheme (WCD, Health, Education) tackling gender bias; launched 22 Jan 2015, Panipat (Haryana).

Core processes: advocacy campaigns, multi-sectoral district interventions, Sukanya Samriddhi incentive to secure girls’ survival & schooling.

Since 2021-22, implemented under Mission Shakti during 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-26).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Components & Implementation

Advocacy: sustained IEC drives against declining CSR/SRB in gender-critical districts.
Multi-sectoral: district action plans converge health, ICDS, education, PC-PNDT enforcement.
Incentive-linkage: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana pushes long-term parental savings for daughters.

Beneficiaries & Eligibility

Primary tier: pregnant or lactating mothers, young parents, girl children.
Secondary tier: adolescents, medical staff, private hospitals, families.
Eligibility: girl < 10 yrs, resident Indian, Sukanya Samriddhi Account opened.

Legal & Policy

Integration: BBBP merged into Mission Shakti for 15th FC period.
Governance: scheme steered jointly by three Union ministries for policy convergence.
Time-frame: current funding window FY 2021-22 to 2025-26.

Outcomes & Targets

Metric: raise Child Sex Ratio & Sex Ratio at Birth across districts.
Infrastructure: ensure functional girls’ toilets in schools.
Monitoring: district-level measurable indicators guide course correction.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch date	22 Jan 2015
Launch location	Panipat, Haryana
Implementing ministries	Women & Child Dev.; Health & Family Welfare; Education
Key objectives	Improve CSR; prevent sex-selective elimination; promote girl education
Main components	Advocacy + Multi-sectoral interventions + Sukanya Samriddhi
Current umbrella	Mission Shakti (FY 2021-22 to 2025-26)
Primary beneficiaries	Pregnant/lactating mothers, young parents, girl children
Eligibility criterion	Resident Indian girl < 10 yrs with SSA account

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 1

“निर्भया कोष”, एक अक्षय कोष निधि (non-lapsable corpus fund) है, जिसका उपयोग विशेष रूप से महिलाओं की सुरक्षा एवं संरक्षा में सुधार हेतु अनुमोदित परियोजनाओं के लिए किया जाता है। इसे किसके द्वारा प्रोत्साहित किया जाता है?

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 2

NEP 2020 के दिशा-निर्देश के अनुसार, 'पोषण और पढ़ाई पूर्व' (PPBP), निम्नलिखित में से किस कार्यक्रम के अंतर्गत प्रारंभ की गई है?

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