Tuesday, 18 February 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following statements with regard to the Election Commission is not correct ?

The correct answer is (b) An Election Commissioner can be removed from his office without the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2022.

Q: Consider the following statements with reference to India:

The correct answer is (a) 1 and 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2002.

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों में से कौन-सा/से भारतीय नागरिक के मूल कर्तव्यों के विषय में सही है/हैं?

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

Q: भारत का संविधान शब्द स्वतंत्रता और अभिव्यक्ति की स्वतंत्रता की गारंटी देता है, किन्तु राज्य द्वारा यह स्वतंत्रता उचित प्रतिबंधों के अधीन हो सकती है। ये प्रतिबंध निम्नलिखित में से किससे संबंधित हैं?

The correct answer is (b) केवल 2 और 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2021.

Q: Recently the Reserve Bank of India has imposed limitations, initially for a period of six months, on the withdrawal of amount by account holders of which one of the following banks?

The correct answer is (c) Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative Bank. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2020.

Q: Who amongst the following will be at more risk with respect to the earthquake hazard zone specified by the Geological Survey of India?

The correct answer is (a) Shahji at Secunderabad. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2021.

Q: Consider the following geological phenomena:

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2 and 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2004.

Q: Which of the following are in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve?

The correct answer is (a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. This question appeared in GS1 2019.

Q: From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats ?

The correct answer is (b) Nallamala Forest. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?

The correct answer is (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation.. This question appeared in GS1 2016.

16 topicsGS-1: 2GS-2: 7GS-3: 7

0/16 done

GS-2Polity

1.Chief Election Commissioner Powers and Appointment (Election Commission)

Business StandardChief Election Commissioner · Article 324 · 2023 Act

What & Where

Constitutional body; Chief Election Commissioner heads Election Commission of India ensuring free, fair nationwide elections

Jurisdiction pan-India for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Assemblies, President and Vice-President polls; HQ New Delhi

Empowered by Article 324 and the Chief Election Commissioner & Other Election Commissioners Act 2023

Quick Facts for MCQs

Appointment Process

Multistage; Search Committee shortlists, Selection Committee recommends, President appoints
2023 Act replaces sole PM advice, institutes bipartisan scrutiny
Leader of Opposition participation injects minority voice in high-level selections

Service Conditions

Cabinet Secretary salary, perks, order of precedence safeguard institutional independence
Fixed tenure or age cap curbs executive interference

Powers & Functions

Conducts, schedules, countermands elections across Union and states
Enforces Model Code of Conduct, oversees party registration and poll finance
Advises President or Governor on disqualifications, bye-poll timings

Latest Appointments

Gyanesh Kumar, 1988 IAS (Kerala cadre), notified as 26th Chief Election Commissioner
Haryana Chief Secretary Dr Vivek Joshi elevated as Election Commissioner
Both selections made March 2024 under new statutory framework

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Constitutional article	324
New statute	2023 CEC & ECs Act
Appointment authority	President of India
Selection Committee	PM + Union Cabinet Minister + LoP, Lok Sabha
Search Committee head	Law Minister
Eligibility	Serving/retired Secretary-rank, integrity, election expertise
Tenure	6 years or age 65, whichever earlier
Service parity	Equivalent to Cabinet Secretary
CEC removal	SC-judge impeachment procedure
EC removal	Only on CEC recommendation

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements with regard to the Election Commission is not correct ?

CDS_GK, GS1 2002PYQ 2

Consider the following statements with reference to India:

GS-2Polity

2.Constitutional Morality Principles and Applications (Constitutional Values)

The HinduConstitutional morality · Ambedkar · Preamble

What & Where

Definition adherence to constitutional values beyond textual obedience ensuring justice equality accountability

Scope applies to lawmakers executives judiciary citizens; underpins ethical governance in Indian democracy

Roots term from George Grote on Athens; popularised by Dr B R Ambedkar in Assembly

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Preamble embeds justice liberty equality fraternity; sets moral compass
Articles 50 121 211 enforce separation promoting constitutional morality
DPSPs guide State towards social economic justice reflecting doctrine

Judicial Landmark Cases

Navtej Johar decriminalised Section 377 citing constitutional morality over public morality
K S Puttaswamy affirmed privacy as fundamental right within moral framework
Sabarimala review showcased clash between constitutional and popular morality

Governance Challenges

Political agencies allegedly weaponised compromising fairness
Majoritarian opinion pressures organs against minority rights
Weak enforcement mechanisms dilute accountability of executive actions

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Term origin	George Grote study on Athenian democracy
Indian champion	Dr B R Ambedkar, Constituent Assembly
Constitutional anchors	Preamble; Arts 14-21; DPSPs
Key SC rulings	Navtej 2018; Puttaswamy 2017; Krishnamoorthy 2015
Core principles	Supremacy; Checks-balances; Pluralism; Freedom with restraint
Major challenges	Political misuse; Executive overreach; Low civic literacy
UPSC PYQ year	2021 GS II

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2017PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों में से कौन-सा/से भारतीय नागरिक के मूल कर्तव्यों के विषय में सही है/हैं?

CDS_GK, GS1 2021PYQ 2

भारत का संविधान शब्द स्वतंत्रता और अभिव्यक्ति की स्वतंत्रता की गारंटी देता है, किन्तु राज्य द्वारा यह स्वतंत्रता उचित प्रतिबंधों के अधीन हो सकती है। ये प्रतिबंध निम्नलिखित में से किससे संबंधित हैं?

GS-3Economy

3.Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation Overview (Deposit Insurance)

LiveMintDICGC · ₹5 lakh limit · RBI subsidiary

What & Where

DICGC: RBI subsidiary insuring bank deposits and offering credit guarantees across India.

Present cover: up to ₹5 lakh per depositor per bank; Finance Ministry weighs upward revision.

Applies nationwide to commercial, regional rural, cooperative and Indian branches of foreign banks.

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Evolution

Trigger events: 1948 Bengal failures; 1960 Palai Central & Laxmi Bank collapse.
Deposit Insurance Corporation launched 1962; merged 1978 creating DICGC.
Continual limit hikes: latest to ₹5 lakh (2020); hike under consideration.

Coverage & Exclusions

Coverage breadth: all scheduled & non-scheduled banks except primary cooperative credit societies.
Branch rule: deposits across a bank’s branches clubbed for one insurance sum.
Exclusions detailed: foreign govt deposits, central/state funds, RBI-approved exemptions.

Functional Scope

Insurance role: compensates depositors when RBI liquidates/supervises failed bank.
Credit guarantee: supports priority-sector lending institutions to mitigate default risk.
Monitoring duty: assesses bank health, builds Deposit Insurance Fund via bank-paid premiums.

Economic Angle

Proposed limit hike aims to bolster depositor confidence amid sporadic cooperative bank stresses.
Higher cover shifts perceived risk from households to insurer, marginally raises bank premium outgo.
Global context: India’s ₹5 lakh (~US $6 k) below US FDIC’s $250 k, EU’s €100 k ceilings.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent organisation	Reserve Bank of India
Governing Act	Deposit Insurance & Credit Guarantee Corporation Act, 1961
Insurance ceiling	₹5 lakh (principal + interest)
Beneficiary unit	Per depositor, per bank
Ministry oversight	Dept. of Financial Services, MoF
First proposal year	1948 (Bengal banking crises)
Act commencement	1 Jan 1962
Merger forming DICGC	1978 with Credit Guarantee Corporation
Accounts covered	Savings, fixed, current, recurring deposits
Major exclusions	Govt, inter-bank, SLDB, overseas deposits

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

Recently the Reserve Bank of India has imposed limitations, initially for a period of six months, on the withdrawal of amount by account holders of which one of the following banks?

GS-3Economy

4.APEDA Exports Sangola and Bhagwa Pomegranates (Agricultural Exports)

The PrintAPEDA · Sangola · Bhagwa

What & Where

Sangola & Bhagwa: premium pomegranate cultivars with high sugar, deep-red arils, long shelf life.

Core geography: semi-arid Solapur belt, Maharashtra—country’s main hub for both varieties.

Milestone: APEDA-led first commercial sea shipment of these fruits to Australia.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Trade & Exports

Initiative: First sea shipment expands Indian pomegranate reach, cuts freight cost v. air.
Partnership: APEDA + AgroStar + Kay Bee Exports manage sourcing, packaging, compliance.
Objective: Diversify agri-export basket, raise farm incomes through premium fruit markets.

Varietal Traits

Sangola: Bright rind, very sweet juice, minimal cracking, long storability.
Bhagwa: Larger fruit, intense red colour, high antioxidants, global consumer preference.
Both command premium prices due to colour uniformity & soft seeds.

Institutional Framework

APEDA: Statutory body under 1986 Act; mandates export promotion, quality control.
Support: Funds pack-houses, cold chains; issues certifications; runs ANARNET for traceability.
Policy role: Implements schemes to boost farmer earnings, cut post-harvest loss.

Logistics Support

Cold-chain: Containerised refrigeration ensures aril firmness during long maritime transit.
Post-harvest: Grading, waxing, controlled-atmosphere packing done in Solapur belt.
Scale-up potential: Successful trial paves path for routine sea exports to high-value markets.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Cultivars exported	Sangola, Bhagwa
Primary growing state	Maharashtra (Solapur)
First sea-route market	Australia
Lead export agency	APEDA
APEDA set-up year	1986
Parent ministry	Commerce & Industry
Traceability tool	ANARNET
Key fruit traits	High sugar, deep-red arils
Seed character	Soft, edible
Shelf-life edge	Long, suits shipping

GS-1History

5.Syrian UNESCO Sites Palmyra, Crac des Chevaliers (UNESCO Sites)

The HinduPalmyra · Crac des Chevaliers · Silk Road

What & Where

Syrian Heritage Sites: Palmyra & Crac des Chevaliers, both UNESCO-listed, sit in Homs Governorate desert/Al-Husn hillscape.

Palmyra: 2,000-year Roman ruins; Silk Road hub; briefly capital of Palmyrene Empire under Queen Zenobia, 3rd century.

Crac des Chevaliers: 12th-century Crusader fortress built by Knights Hospitaller, commanding Levant trade/military routes.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conflict Damage & Restoration

War-impact: Shelling, looting left monuments structurally compromised.
Restoration-drive: Archaeologists and conservators launching phased repairs to safeguard authenticity.

Tourism & Economy

Revival-goal: Reopened sites expected to draw international visitors and hard currency.
Government-pitch: Cultural heritage positioned as post-conflict economic catalyst.

Historical Significance

Palmyrene-Empire: Zenobia’s revolt momentarily challenged Roman supremacy in Near East.
Crusader-Network: Crac served as key Hospitaller garrison between Mediterranean ports and inland trade paths.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Palmyra location	Syrian desert, Homs Governorate
Palmyra era	Roman-era, 1st–3rd century CE
Palmyra role	Silk Road commercial hub
Palmyra ruler	Queen Zenobia, 3rd century
Crac location	Al-Husn, Homs Governorate
Crac builder	Knights Hospitaller, 12th century
Crac function	Crusader stronghold controlling routes
UNESCO status	Both declared World Heritage Sites
Current action	Expert-led restoration after war damage
Economic aim	Heritage tourism revival for Syrian economy

GS-1Mapping

6.Delhi Shallow Earthquake 2025 Insights (Earthquakes)

Indian ExpressDelhi earthquake · Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt · Zone IV

What & Where

Delhi experienced a 4.0-magnitude shallow earthquake (5 km) inside Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt, not Himalayan-linked.

Trigger was local normal faulting aided by groundwater-driven hydro-fracturing of ancient folded rocks.

City sits in Seismic Zone IV (MSK-8), hosting multiple minor faults capable of ≤ 6 M quakes.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Seismology Basics

Classification: Shallow quakes release more surface energy, intensifying tremors in soft alluvium like Yamuna plains.
Scale contrast: Magnitude quantifies energy; MSK intensity records observed effects.
Acoustic myth: Human-heard “booms” stem from building resonance, not direct seismic sound.

Geological Setting

Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt: Precambrian rocks, now largely inactive yet hosting residual stresses.
Hydro-fracturing: Pressurised groundwater widens fractures, periodically releasing stored elastic strain.
Alluvium factor: Soft sediments amplify incoming waves compared with harder basement rocks.

Risk & Preparedness

Zoning: Delhi’s Zone IV status demands MSK-8-compliant building codes and retrofitting.
Cascading threat: Large Himalayan MCF event could transmit severe shaking through unconsolidated Yamuna deposits.
Monitoring need: Dense seismograph network vital for mapping hidden urban faults.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Event date	Feb 2025
Magnitude	4.0 (Mw)
Focal depth	5 km
Epicenter	Within Delhi city
Tectonic setting	Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt
Dominant fault type	Normal faulting
Key trigger	Hydro-fracturing by aquifers
Seismic zone	Zone IV, MSK-8
Most vulnerable zone	Zone V, MSK-9
Local faults	Mahendranagar, Sohana
Max local quake potential	≈ 6 M
Himalayan threat	M 8 on Main Central Fault
Sound during quake	From vibrating structures, not seismic waves
Depth classes	Shallow 0-70 km; Intermediate 70-300 km; Deep 300-700 km
MSK scale measures	Intensity, not energy

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2021PYQ 1

Who amongst the following will be at more risk with respect to the earthquake hazard zone specified by the Geological Survey of India?

CDS_GK, GS1 2004PYQ 2

Consider the following geological phenomena:

GS-3Environment

7.Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Biodiversity Highlights (Tiger Reserve)

The HinduParambikulam · Western Ghats · UNESCO

Illustration for Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Biodiversity Highlights (Tiger Reserve)

What & Where

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve – protected forest-cum-grassland landscape originally declared wildlife sanctuary, now tiger reserve.

Nestled between Anamalai & Nelliampathy Hills, Palakkad-Thrissur districts, Kerala Western Ghats.

Latest faunal survey added 15 previously unrecorded birds, butterflies, odonates to site checklist.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biodiversity Update

Survey recorded 15 new species boosting avifauna, lepidoptera, odonate diversity count.
Adds scientific baseline aiding future monitoring & management actions.

Flora & Fauna Highlights

Habitat mosaic supports arboreal mammals like Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel.
Presence of smooth-coated otter indicates healthy riverine ecosystem.

Tribal Communities

Tribes practise traditional sustainable harvest of non-timber forest produce.
Co-management models enhance livelihood while aiding conservation vigilance.

Legal & Policy

Tiger Reserve notification offers higher funds, stricter protection than sanctuary status.
NTCA guidelines govern core-buffer zoning, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, eco-tourism.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Legal status	Wildlife Sanctuary 1973, expanded 1984, Tiger Reserve 2010
Total area	643.66 sq km
Physiography	Evergreen, moist & dry deciduous forests, grasslands
UNESCO tag	Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-cluster
Flagship programme	Project Tiger under NTCA
Medicinal plants	Coscinium fenestratum, Utleria salicifolia (IUCN Red List)
Endemic frog	Tomopterna parambikulamana
Endemic fish	Garra surendranathanii
Key mammals	Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, elephant, leopard
Indigenous tribes	Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar, Mala Malasar (6 colonies)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

Which of the following are in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve?

GS1 2017PYQ 2

From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats ?

GS-3Environment

8.Fecal Coliform River Pollution Indicators (Water Pollution)

Hindustan TimesFecal coliform · CPCB limit · BOD

What & Where

Fecal coliform = coliform subgroup from intestines of warm-blooded animals; key indicator of sewage pollution

High counts reported by CPCB in Ganga & Yamuna at Prayagraj during Maha Kumbh 2025

Includes Escherichia coli; strain O157:H7 is pathogenic

Quick Facts for MCQs

Environmental Impact

Oxygen-sag zones form; aquatic fauna face suffocation
Elevated COD signals toxic, non-biodegradable load harming river ecology
River water unsuitable for bathing/drinking during pilgrimage peak

Health Concerns

Pathogen presence raises risk of water-borne outbreaks among pilgrims
E. coli O157:H7 can trigger severe intestinal infections, kidney damage
Contaminated fish/shellfish act as additional transmission vectors

Governance & Regulation

CPCB monitors coliform levels; NGT seeks compliance reports
Permissible limits guide municipal sewage-treatment obligations
Findings may trigger stricter discharge standards before Kumbh gatherings

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
CPCB inland-water limit	2,500 CFU / 100 ml
Drinking-water norm	E. coli must be absent
Reporting agency	Central Pollution Control Board
Submitted to	National Green Tribunal
Key event	Maha Kumbh 2025, Prayagraj
Indicative diseases	Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Gastroenteritis
Effect on BOD	Oxygen depletion via organic-waste decomposition
Effect on COD	Rise due to non-biodegradable sewage/industrial load
Pollution clues	Poor sewage treatment, septic leakage, agricultural runoff

GS-3S&T

9.EAST Superconducting Tokamak Fusion Breakthrough (Nuclear Fusion)

The HinduEAST · Tokamak · 1

Illustration for EAST Superconducting Tokamak Fusion Breakthrough (Nuclear Fusion)

What & Where

Tokamak: Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) located at Hefei, Anhui, China

Purpose: Magnetic-confinement fusion testbed using toroidal + poloidal superconducting magnets for long, steady-state plasma

Linkage: Generates operational data for ITER; China finances about 9 % of that multinational project

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technical Milestones

Sustained-plasma: 1 066 s run more than doubled 2023 benchmark
Magnet-upgrade: Higher-efficiency superconductors lowered energy loss, improved field stability
Heating-power: Auxiliary systems roughly doubled, maintaining 70 million °C without disruption

ITER Linkages

Data-transfer: EAST shots refine ITER control algorithms, divertor and steady-state designs
Supply-chain: Chinese firms provide superconducting strands, diagnostics modules for ITER components
Momentum: EAST success helps offset ITER schedule slips, keeping fusion R&D internationally coordinated

Key Hurdles

Net-gain: Present tokamaks consume more energy than produced, Q>1 yet to be achieved
Tritium-scarcity: No natural deposits; breeding blankets or alternative fuels like He-3 under study
Finance-delay: High capital, cost overruns and timeline extensions hamper rapid commercialization

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Record plasma sustainment	1 066 s at ≈70 million °C (Jan 2025)
Earlier EAST record	403 s (2023)
China’s ITER share	9 % construction & operation
ITER first-plasma target	2033 (revised)
ITER spending so far	> €18 billion

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

10.High-Entropy Alloy Catalyst Boosts Hydrogen (Green Hydrogen)

BLHigh-entropy alloy · Catalyst · Water electrolysis

What & Where

High-Entropy Alloy catalyst developed to enhance water electrolysis efficiency for green hydrogen production

Composition equiatomic mix of platinum palladium cobalt nickel manganese forming stable multimetal lattice

Field tests stable 100 + hours in alkaline seawater, suiting coastal hydrogen plants

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology

Catalyst lowers activation energy, speeding water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen
Multimetal lattice offers synergistic active sites, outperforming monometallic platinum electrodes
Stable operation with seawater feed broadens electrolyser input flexibility

Economic Angle

Sevenfold cut in platinum demand slashes electrode cost in green hydrogen projects
Inclusion of cobalt, nickel, manganese limits dependence on scarce platinum-group metals

Environmental Impact

Green hydrogen from seawater avoids freshwater stress and delivers zero-carbon fuel
Longer catalyst life reduces replacement frequency, curbing material waste and mining footprint

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
HEA constituent elements	Pt, Pd, Co, Ni, Mn
Platinum saving versus pure Pt	~7 × lower usage
Tested electrolyte	Alkaline seawater
Verified durability	> 100 hours continuous run
Key material traits	High strength, corrosion & wear resistance

GS-2Infrastructure

11.India-EU Urban Forum Sustainable Partnership (Urban Cooperation)

PIBIndia-EU Urban Forum · Smart Cities · Global Gateway

What & Where

India-EU Urban Forum – high-level platform for smart, sustainable urbanization, born of 2017 Joint Declaration.

4th edition convened Feb 2025, New Delhi; strengthens India-EU city-level collaboration.

Operates across 40+ Indian cities exchanging solutions on climate-smart planning and mobility.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Policy Framework

Declaration-driven; forum institutionalises annual India-EU urban dialogue.
Alignment; activities sync with EU Global Gateway and Indian urban missions.
Objective; share policies, best practices, innovative urban solutions.

Financial Support

Investment; EU committed over ₹9,000 crore toward Indian urban projects.
Coverage; funds target climate-smart development, mobility, waste management, climate action.
Scale; support extended to 40+ municipal bodies nationwide.

Thematic Priorities

Urban Alliance; promotes integrated planning among multiple stakeholders.
Innovation & Circularity; advances waste-to-resource, clean tech, circular economy models.
Inclusive Mobility; focuses on low-carbon, accessible urban transport networks.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch basis	2017 Joint Declaration on Partnership for Smart & Sustainable Urbanization
Current edition	4th India-EU Urban Forum (Feb 2025)
Host city	New Delhi
EU investment in Indian cities	> ₹9,000 crore since 2017
Indian cities covered	40 plus
Core focus areas	Urban Alliance & Integrated Approaches; Innovation & Circularity; Inclusive Urban Mobility
EU alignment	Global Gateway Strategy
Linked Indian missions	Smart Cities, AMRUT, Aspirational Blocks Programme

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2026PYQ 1

What is the name of the initiative launched by India and Denmark in November 2025 to enhance bilateral ties?

ESE_GS 2022PYQ 2

Consider the following statements regarding Forum for Decarbonizing Transport:

GS-2Security

12.Indian Ocean Conference 2025 Maritime Cooperation (Indian Ocean Conference)

Indian ExpressIndian Ocean Conference · SAGAR · Muscat

Illustration for Indian Ocean Conference 2025 Maritime Cooperation (Indian Ocean Conference)

What & Where

Indian Ocean Conference (IOC): annual summit (since 2016) uniting Indian Ocean Region (IOR) leaders on maritime issues

8th IOC: held Feb 2025, Muscat (Oman); theme “Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership”

IOR spans Strait of Malacca to Mozambique Channel, covering ~20 % global water surface and key energy routes

Quick Facts for MCQs

Institutional Setup

Establishment: IOC by India Foundation to advance India’s SAGAR vision
Participation: 30 states joined inaugural 2016 meet; open, issue-centric forum
Frequency: Annual rotation among IOR capitals ensures shared ownership

Economic Angle

Trade-route: 80 % global maritime oil and Asia–Europe containers transit Indian Ocean
Choke-points: Malacca, Hormuz, Bab-el-Mandeb, Mozambique Channel govern freight costs and energy security
Landmass: IOR rim covers quarter of world land, hosting vast littoral markets

Security Dimension

Threats: Piracy, illegal fishing, sovereignty disputes drive demand for coordinated maritime domain awareness
Bases: Diego Garcia, Djibouti, Duqm, Chabahar enable extra-regional naval presence
SAGAR: India commits capacity building, HADR, rule-based order for littorals

Resource Potential

Polymetallic-Nodules: Central Indian Ocean Basin rich in nickel, copper, cobalt, manganese
Hydrocarbons: ~75 % proven global oil reserves lie within IOR states
Fisheries: Warm waters nurture tuna, shrimp stocks facing over-exploitation

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
IOC founding year	2016
Founding body	India Foundation (think tank)
First venue	Singapore
2025 host city	Muscat, Oman
2025 edition number	8th
2025 theme	Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership
Countries at first IOC	~30
IOR water-surface share	~20 % of world
IOR landmass share	~25 % of world
Global oil reserves in IOR	~75 %
Global maritime oil via IOR	~80 %
India’s oil imports via IOR	~80 %
Major choke points	Malacca, Hormuz, Bab-el-Mandeb, Mozambique Channel

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 1

The 7th edition of the Indian Ocean Conference was held at

CDS_GK, GS1 2015PYQ 2

‘क्षेत्रीय सहयोग के लिए हिन्द महासागर रिम संघ (Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation – IOR-ARC)’ के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Security

13.DRC M23 Conflict and Regional Implications (DRC Conflict)

The HinduM23 militia · Goma · Rwanda

Illustration for DRC M23 Conflict and Regional Implications (DRC Conflict)

What & Where

M23 rebel group, formed 2012, now controls Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Conflict zone spans North & South Kivu provinces bordering Rwanda, an area rich in coltan and other minerals.

Contest primarily between Tutsi-led M23 (backed by Rwanda) and Hutu-oriented FDLR plus DRC forces.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

M23 captures Goma, threatens provincial capital Bukavu as fighting extends southward.
Rwanda alleged to supply arms, logistics, international scrutiny increases.
DRC army and UN peacekeepers redeploy forces, frontline shifts daily.

Ethnic Context

Colonial Belgium and Germany favored Tutsis over Hutus, sowing lasting divisions.
M23 claims Tutsi protection; FDLR frames struggle for Hutu rights.
1994 Rwandan genocide remains backdrop shaping regional insecurities.

Resource Economics

Coltan abundant in Kivu finances armed groups via illicit mining routes.
High tantalum demand from smartphones, EVs amplifies geopolitical stakes.
Mineral control motivates militia offensives toward mine clusters.

Humanitarian Impact

Civilian deaths near 3,000; figures likely under-reported in remote zones.
Nearly 7 lakh internally displaced crowd Goma, Bukavu camps, strain aid.
Schools, clinics shut; malnutrition and disease risks surge.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Militia name	March 23 Movement (M23)
Formation year	2012
Origin of name	Failed 23 Mar 2009 peace deal
Principal backer	Rwanda
Opposing rebel group	FDLR (Hutu)
City recently seized	Goma, North Kivu
Conflict spread	Into South Kivu
Recorded deaths	≈2,900
Displaced persons	≈7 lakh
DRC coltan share	~40 % global output
Key coltan use	Tantalum capacitors for electronics
Ethnic flashpoint	Hutu-Tutsi rivalry
Genocide year in Rwanda	1994

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2004PYQ 1

In which one of the following countries, did an ethnic violence between the communities of Hema and Lendu result in the death of hundreds of people?

GS-3Security

14.Distributed Denial of Service Attack Overview (Cyber Security)

The HinduDDoS · Botnet · Traffic overload

Illustration for Distributed Denial of Service Attack Overview (Cyber Security)

What & Where

Distributed Denial of Service: coordinated cyber flood overwhelming target servers, denying legitimate access.

Target: Kaveri 2.0, Karnataka online property-registration and valuation portal housed in State Data Centre.

Geography: Karnataka, India; disruption cascaded across sub-registrar offices statewide.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Botnet formation: compromised IoT, PCs, servers act as remotely controlled attack nodes.
Traffic overload: fake requests saturate bandwidth or consume server threads, rejecting genuine users.
Diversion tactic: DDoS often masks simultaneous exfiltration or ransomware deployment.

Tech & Schemes

Traffic filtering: AI/behavioural analytics discard abnormal packets before server queue.
Rate limiting & CAPTCHA: throttle request counts, distinguish humans from automated bots.
Robust authentication plus 24×7 incident response mandated for critical e-governance portals.

Operational Impact

Registration stoppage delayed property deals, affecting state revenue and citizen services.
Event highlights cybersecurity as key Ease-of-Doing-Business parameter for digital India initiatives.
Necessitates state-level redundancy, surge-capacity planning, and periodic stress testing.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Attack category	Volumetric Distributed Denial of Service
Core toolset	Malware-created botnet generating spurious traffic
Immediate effect	Bandwidth/CPU exhaustion, portal outage
Possible diversion	Parallel data breach or malware drop
Key defences	AI filtering, rate-limiting, CAPTCHA, incident teams

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following attacks is one in which a malicious hacker takes over computers via the Internet and causes them to flood a target site with demands for data and other small tasks?

ESE_GS 2026PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements is related to key feature of ThreatRadar reputation to prevent DDoS attacks on cloud infrastructure?

GS-2Scheme

15.PM-AASHA Price Support Umbrella Scheme (Price Support Scheme)

PIBPM-AASHA · PSS · PDPS

What & Where

PM-AASHA: umbrella price-support scheme for farmers across India, launched 2018, now extended till FY 2025-26.

Ensures remunerative prices via MSP procurement, deficit payments, buffer stocking and market intervention.

Operates through Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare with NAFED, NCCF and State agencies.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Scheme Components

Price Support Scheme: physical MSP purchase of pulses, oilseeds, copra; storage managed by NAFED/NCCF.
Price Deficit Payment: DBT compensates MSP-market gap without procurement, easing logistics.
Market Intervention Scheme: state-led support for short-shelf horticulture; cash paid directly.

Economic Angle

Buffer stocks under PSF curb hoarding, tame retail inflation in pulses/onions.
100 % Tur-Urad-Masur procurement targets import-substitution, savings in forex outgo.
Guaranteed MSP uptake boosts sowing incentives, stabilises farm incomes.

Implementation

Pre-registration mandatory; farmers sell at notified centres only.
States share logistics costs; Centre reimburses price differential and service charges.
Digital platforms track arrivals, payments, stock movement for transparency.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Finance Commission cycle	15th (2021-26)
Admin Ministry	Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare
Central Nodal Agencies	NAFED, NCCF
Core components	PSS, PSF, PDPS, MIS
PSS procurement cap	25 % of national pulses-oilseeds-copra output
Exception 2024-25	100 % Tur, Urad, Masur
PDPS cover	40 % oilseed output; 4 months
MIS cover	25 % perishable horticulture production
PSF buffer items	Pulses, Onions
Farmer payment mode	Direct Benefit Transfer

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2025PYQ 1

Which one among the following schemes focuses on developing modern infrastructure and optimizing supply chain from farm to retail in Indian agriculture sector?

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2025PYQ 2

Which one of the following Yojanas replaces two schemes – National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS), 1999 as well as the Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS), 2010 – by incorporating the best features of all these schemes while removing the previous shortcomings and weaknesses?

GS-2Scheme

16.Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Milestones (Crop Insurance)

PIBPMFBY · RWBCIS · Premium rates

What & Where

PMFBY: central-sector crop insurance launched 2016, implemented pan-India, cleared for continuation till 2025-26

Objective: indemnify farmers for crop losses from calamities, pests, disease; sister RWBCIS pays on predefined weather deviation

Scale: world’s largest crop-insurance scheme by farmers and hectares in 2023-24; marking 9th anniversary in 2025

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Continuation approved by Union Cabinet for PMFBY & RWBCIS till 2025-26
Scheme open to all cultivators including sharecroppers, tenants; enrolment voluntary
Unlimited central subsidy keeps farmer premium capped at notified rates

Technology Use

Satellite imagery & drones aid area mapping, yield dispute resolution, loss assessment
CCE-Agri App uploads real-time yields to NCIP ensuring transparent calculation
RWBCIS uses rainfall, temperature, humidity proxies, dispensing with field loss surveys

Implementation Gaps

Subsidy release lag causes claim pendency up to 18 months, eroding trust
Claims concentrated in Gujarat, Maharashtra, AP, MP; Bihar, Assam, NE under-penetrated
Coverage excludes quality loss, wild-animal damage; 14-day post-harvest window restrictive

Suggested Fixes

Monitoring mechanism to enforce prompt insurer settlement and curb reinsurance gaming
Community/FPO models to lower transaction costs for small, marginal farmers
Deploy banks, BCs, private agents to expand awareness and uptake

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year	2016
9th anniversary	2025
Farmer premium-share Kharif	2 %
Farmer premium-share Rabi	1.5 %
Farmer premium-share commercial/horticulture	5 %
Govt pays 100 % premium in	NE States, J&K, Himachal Pradesh
Prevented-sowing indemnity	≤25 % sum insured
Post-harvest cover window	14 days
Claim settlement target	≤2 months after harvest
Non-loanee share in enrolment	55 %
Tech tool for CCE data	CCE-Agri App
Data portal	National Crop Insurance Portal
Key risks covered	Flood, drought, cyclone, hailstorm, pest, disease, landslide, unseasonal rain

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2025PYQ 1

ESE_GS, GS1 2016PYQ 2

With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, consider the following statements:

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