The correct answer is (c) Technologically Accomplished Direct Fund. This question appeared in ESE_GS 2020.

Friday, 21 February 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following statements about the Speaker of Lok Sabha is not correct?

The correct answer is (d) While the office of the Speaker is vacant, the duties of the office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker.. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2022.

Q: Which one of the following Acts mandates schools and libraries in India to use some form of technological protection to block computer access to obscene material, pornography, and anything else considered harmful to minors?

The correct answer is (a) Telecommunications Act. This question appeared in ESE_GS 2024.

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2 and 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2024.

Q: निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा आयोग अनुच्छेद 338A से संबंधित है?

The correct answer is (c) राष्ट्रीय पिछड़ा वर्ग आयोग. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2020.

Q: Arrange the following events associated with Shivaji in chronological order :

The correct answer is (a) 2, 4, 1, 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2023.

Q: Consider the following statements about the administrative measures of Shivaji:

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2024.

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

The correct answer is (a) Brazil. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2024.

Q: Consider the following pairs:

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

Q: Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the 'Ten Degree Channel'?

The correct answer is (a) Andaman and Nicobar. This question appeared in GS1 2014.

Q: What is 'Greenhouse Gas Protocol'?

The correct answer is (a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions.. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2016.

17 topicsGS-1: 5GS-2: 6GS-3: 6

0/17 done

GS-2Polity

1.Article 101(4) MP Attendance Rule (Parliament Vacancies)

Indian Express60 consecutive sittings · Committee on Members' Absence · Lok Sabha vacancy

What & Where

Article 101(4): constitutional clause for vacating a Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha seat due to prolonged absence.

Trigger: 60 consecutive sittings missed without House-sanctioned leave.

Venue of action: House concerned formally declares vacancy; not automatic.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Constitutional Basis

Article 101 covers vacation, disqualification, dual membership of MPs.
Provision applies equally to Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha seats.
Vacancy declaration takes effect only after House resolution.

Procedural Steps

MP submits written request to Committee on Members’ Absence before/within absence.
Committee evaluates reasons, tables report; House votes to accept/reject.
Fresh application needed for leave beyond 59 days.

Limits & Powers

No automatic seat loss; House discretion central.
Majority vote requisite for declaring vacancy or expelling member.
Absence without sanctioned leave after 60 sittings qualifies for expulsion motion.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Constitutional article	101(4)
Consecutive sittings that invoke clause	60
Leave-sanctioning body	House via majority vote
Scrutiny arm	Committee on Members’ Absence
Max leave per sanction	59 days
Typical valid grounds	Illness, detention, emergencies
Outcome if leave denied/not sought	House may declare seat vacant

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements about the Speaker of Lok Sabha is not correct?

GS-2Polity

2.Remission of Sentences Provisions (Criminal Justice)

Indian ExpressArticles 72 & 161 · Section 432 CrPC · BNSS 2023

What & Where

Remission – sentence-cut for convicts, India-wide, does not annul conviction

Power located in Constitution Arts 72 & 161, CrPC 1973 §432-433A, BNSS 2023 §473-475

2025 Supreme Court order directs all States/UTs to suo motu screen eligible prisoners for premature release

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Mandate – every State must maintain explicit remission policy; Legal Services Authorities to monitor via digital portal
Criteria – offence motive, prior record, public safety, rehabilitation potential
Cancellation – only for serious violations; arbitrary or vague clauses disallowed

Judicial Precedents

Sangeet 2013 & Mohinder 2013 rejected automatic remission, now overruled in part
Mafabhai Sagar 2024: conditions must be reasonable, non-vague
New 2025 order harmonises precedents, embeds procedural fairness

Operational Procedure

Prison authorities compile eligible list, forward to State Home Dept for decision
Suo motu screening periodic; no convict application prerequisite
Breach leads to re-arrest possible after due process

Transparency & Data

Legal aid bodies to keep real-time prisoner remission dashboards
Public reporting aimed to curb discretion abuse
Data expected to feed into policy reviews and SC oversight

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Minimum jail for life convicts	14 yrs (CrPC §433A; BNSS §475)
Central remission authorities	President, Governor
State statutory power	CrPC §432; BNSS §473
Key SC shift 2025	Suo motu consideration; no application needed
Time to frame policy (if absent)	2 months
Leading 2013 ruling	Sangeet v Haryana – remission needs application
Revocation safeguard	Notice + hearing; no cancellation for minor breach

GS-2Polity

3.OTT Platforms Code of Ethics (IT Rules 2021)

NDTVage classification · Ministry of I&B · Information Technology Act 2000

Illustration for OTT Platforms Code of Ethics (IT Rules 2021)

What & Where

Code of Ethics: self-regulatory content rules for OTTs, mandated via IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

Applies pan-India to publishers of “online curated content”; overseen by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.

Advisory issued 2024 after ‘India’s Got Latent’ controversy to curb obscene, vulgar or age-inappropriate streaming.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

IT Rules demand publisher disclosure, monthly compliance reports, grievance officer in India.
Advisory reiterates prohibition of content under IPC 292–294, Indecent Rep Act 1986.
MIB may use Emergency Blocking powers without prior notice.

Implementation Challenges

Ambiguous terms like “morality”, “decency” enable varied platform interpretations.
Tech limits: robust, ID-based age verification yet absent on most Indian OTTs.
Global libraries complicate jurisdiction-specific edits and simultaneous release schedules.

International Examples

Ofcom code: strict watershed hours, mandatory age-gates, £250k fine cap.
EU Audiovisual Media Directive: transparency reports, annual third-party audits, cross-border cooperation.

Governance & Ethics Angle

Protects minors, public decency; boosts viewer trust via transparent ratings & disclaimers.
Combines state oversight with industry self-regulation—mirrors “co-regulation” model in ethics literature.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent law	IT Act 2000, sec 69A & IT Rules 2021
Rule invoking Code	Rule 9, Schedule I of IT Rules
Age classifications	U, U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, A
‘A’ content safeguards	PIN/OTP parental lock; reliable age verification
Grievance tiers	Publisher → Self-regulatory body → MIB Inter-Departmental Committee
Penalty for non-compliance	Content take-down, site blocking, ₹ up to 1 lakh (ad-rules)
Intl parallels	Ofcom (UK) & European Audiovisual Observatory frameworks
Recent trigger case	Ranveer Allahbadia’s remark on India’s Got Talent (2024)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following Acts mandates schools and libraries in India to use some form of technological protection to block computer access to obscene material, pornography, and anything else considered harmful to minors?

GS-2Polity

4.National Commission for STs Overview (NCST)

PIBArticle 338A · 89th Amendment · Chairperson tenure

What & Where

Constitutional Commission for Scheduled Tribes, created 19 Feb 2004 by 89th Amendment inserting Article 338A

Nation-wide jurisdiction from HQ New Delhi; monitors safeguards, advises Centre-States, reports to President

Structure: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, three Members (≥ 1 woman); term 3 yrs, max two terms

Quick Facts for MCQs

Composition & Tenure

Appointment: President selects all five members
Reappointment: permissible once; continuity gaps common due to delayed fills
Ranks: Vice-Chairperson equals MoS, Members equal Secretary

Mandate & Functions

Oversight: monitors constitutional safeguards, evaluates ST welfare schemes, suggests socio-economic measures
Advisory: recommends land rights under FRA 2006, alternative livelihoods, shifting-cultivation reduction
Reporting: submits study reviews, investigation findings annually or whenever required

Operational Challenges

Autonomy: budgetary control with Tribal Affairs Ministry limits independent functioning
Staffing: chronic vacancies, lean support staff slow complaint disposal
Enforcement: recommendations non-binding; lacks penalty power like CIC

Reform Proposals

Empowerment: statutory power to levy penalties for non-compliance
Cadre: dedicated NCST service to stabilise manpower
Mandatory consultation: strict adherence to Article 338A(9) before any ST-related policy rollout

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent Amendment	89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003
Relevant Articles	338A (NCST), 338 (NCSC)
First Foundation Day	19 Feb 2004
Latest Foundation Day celebrated	19 Feb 2025 (22nd)
Composition strength	5 (1+1+3)
Rank of Chairperson	Cabinet Minister
Mandatory woman member	Minimum one
Reporting line	Annual & special reports to President
Consultation clause	Article 338A(9) requires Union/States to consult on ST policies
Administrative ministry	Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Binding nature of advice	Recommendatory, not enforceable
Key legal focus	PESA 1996, FRA 2006 implementation
Typical petitions	Atrocities, land alienation, reservation denial
Term length	3 years
Reappointment cap	2 terms

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2024PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2020PYQ 2

निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा आयोग अनुच्छेद 338A से संबंधित है?

GS-1History

5.Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Legacy (Maratha Empire)

News on AirHindavi Swarajya · guerrilla warfare · Raigad coronation

Illustration for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Legacy (Maratha Empire)

What & Where

Maratha sovereign who established Hindavi Swarajya across western Deccan in 17th C

Core geography: Pune–Raigad heartland; Konkan coast and Sahyadri hill forts as strategic rim

Key process: Guerrilla warfare Ganimi Kawa combined with nascent blue-water navy

Quick Facts for MCQs

Military Innovations

Guerrilla: Swift raids, terrain advantage against numerically superior foes
Navy: Timber warships surveilled Arabian Sea trade routes, deterred European privateers
Cavalry: Light horsemen enabled rapid multi-front offensives

Administrative Reforms

Ashta Pradhan: Eight specialized ministers for finance, foreign, justice, etc
Revenue: Replaced jagir excesses with equitable Kathi survey; levied Chauth outside realm
Inclusivity: Appointed Muslims, Europeans, lower castes, affirming religious tolerance

Battles & Expeditions

Pratapgad 1659: Afzal Khan slain, Bijapur morale crushed
Escape Agra 1666: Decoy baskets enabled return to Swarajya, boosting legend
Southern campaign 1677-80: Marathas entered Karnataka, Tamil Nadu after treaty with Golconda

Fortifications

Hill forts: Torna, Sinhagad controlled Sahyadri passes
Naval strongholds: Sindhudurg walls fused with seabed, preventing cannon breaches
Raigad: Coronation seat, double-gate defenses, cliff-top granaries

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth	19 Feb 1630, Shivneri Fort
Father	Shahaji Bhonsle
Mother	Jijabai
Teachers	Dadoji Kondadev, Jijabai
Coronation	6 Jun 1674, Raigad Fort
Empire term	Hindavi Swarajya
Guerrilla term	Ganimi Kawa
Ministerial council	Ashta Pradhan Mandal (8)
Revenue systems	Kathi survey & Chauth levy
Naval forts	Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

Arrange the following events associated with Shivaji in chronological order :

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

Consider the following statements about the administrative measures of Shivaji:

GS-1EconomyQuick Bite

6.India–Argentina Lithium Exploration MoU (Critical Minerals)

PIBLithium Triangle · white gold · EV batteries

Illustration for India–Argentina Lithium Exploration MoU (Critical Minerals)

What & Where

Lithium: soft, silvery-white alkali metal, lightest solid element, termed ‘white gold’.

Sources: hard-rock ores (petalite, lepidolite, spodumene) and subsurface brines.

Core geography: Lithium Triangle (Argentina-Bolivia-Chile); Indian finds—Reasi (J&K), Koderma & Giridih (Jharkhand), Mandya (Karnataka).

Quick Facts for MCQs

International Cooperation

MoU: exploration and investment opportunities in Argentine lithium sector signed by India.
Argentina: hosts vast reserves within South American Lithium Triangle.

Mineral Properties

Reactivity: highly reactive, flammable; requires oil storage to prevent oxidation.
Classification: alkali metal yet often labelled rare metal due to limited viable deposits.

Reserves & Geography

Global hierarchy: Chile tops reserve tally, followed by China and Australia.
India: Salal-Haimna, Koderma, Giridih, Mandya identified for domestic resource potential.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Fresh MoU	India & Argentina, Feb 2025
Storage need	Immersed in mineral oil
Key battery use	Electric vehicles & renewable storage
Lithium Triangle members	Argentina, Bolivia, Chile
Largest global reserves rank	Chile 1st, China 2nd, Australia 3rd
Ore minerals	Petalite, Lepidolite, Spodumene
Indian deposit states	J&K, Jharkhand, Karnataka
Element group	Alkali metal; also tagged rare metal
Distinct property	Lightest metal & solid element

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 1

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

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 2

Consider the following pairs:

GS-1Mapping

7.Andaman Sea Location & Features (Regional Seas)

Times of Indianortheastern Indian Ocean · Andaman-Nicobar Trench · Irrawaddy River

Illustration for Andaman Sea Location & Features (Regional Seas)

What & Where

Semi-enclosed marginal sea of NE Indian Ocean, lying between 4°–20° N & 92°–100° E.

Flanked by Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra; separated from Bay of Bengal by India’s Andaman-Nicobar chain.

Vital segment of India–Pacific maritime corridor, feeding Strait of Malacca traffic.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physical Geography

Islands: Andaman & Nicobar (India), Breueh (Indonesia) punctuate sea surface.
Trench: Andaman-Nicobar subduction trench exceeds 4.4 km depth along eastern margin.
Sedimentation: Irrawaddy deposits heavy silt load into northern basin.

Biodiversity & Geology

Coral reefs: extensive, high biodiversity, support tourism and fisheries.
Volcanism: Barren Island only active Indian volcano, periodic strombolian eruptions.
Seismicity: 5.2 magnitude quake shows ongoing tectonic activity of Sunda subduction zone.

Strategic Importance

Shipping: primary India-China route funnels through Strait of Malacca, linking Andaman Sea to South China Sea.
Myanmar access: Ports Yangon, Bassein, Mergui rely on this sea for maritime trade.
Geo-politics: Sea’s chokepoint status critical for energy supplies and naval deployments.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Latitude range	4° N – 20° N
Longitude range	92° E – 100° E
Border west	Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Major river inflow	Irrawaddy (Myanmar)
Deepest trench depth	>14,500 ft (≈4,400 m)
Active Indian volcano	Barren Island
Strategic strait	Strait of Malacca
Recent quake magnitude	5.2 (near Malaysia)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2014PYQ 1

Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the 'Ten Degree Channel'?

GS-3Environment

8.Biennial Transparency Report under Paris Agreement (Climate Reporting)

The HinduUNFCCC · GHG inventory · NDCs

Illustration for Biennial Transparency Report under Paris Agreement (Climate Reporting)

What & Where

Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) – mandatory reporting tool under Paris Agreement 2015, submitted every two years to UNFCCC.

Tracks national GHG inventory, NDC progress, adaptation; SIDS & LDCs may submit voluntarily.

India to file first BTR in 2025; earlier sent four Biennial Update Reports (BURs) covering 2000-2020 period.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Reporting Framework

Requirement; BTR replaces BUR for non-Annex I from 2024 cycle
Independent expert review; facilitative multilateral consideration under UNFCCC
India preparing inventory in IPCC 2006 guidelines, 5 gases plus LULUCF

Emission Profile 2020

Methane share 13.32 %, nitrous oxide 5.13 %, others 1.02 %
Sectoral ranks: Energy > Agriculture > IPPU > Waste
Agriculture emissions driven by enteric fermentation & rice paddies

Carbon Sink & Intensity

Forest & tree cover national sink creditable under Art. 5 Paris Agreement
Sequestration offset equals emissions of entire agriculture sector
Intensity decline aligns with updated NDC pledge (Aug 2022)

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Paris Agreement article mandating BTR	Art. 13 (Enhanced Transparency)
Submission cycle	Every 2 years
Voluntary exemption	SIDS & LDCs
India’s last BUR number & year	BUR-4, 2024
Inventory year covered in BUR-4	2020
India’s 2020 gross emissions	2,959 Mt CO₂e
Net emissions incl. LULUCF	2,437 Mt CO₂e
CO₂ share in total GHG	80.53 %
Energy sector emission share	75.66 %
Forest/tree CO₂ sequestration 2020	522 Mt; 22 % of CO₂ emitted
Emission intensity fall 2005-20	36 %; target 45 % by 2030

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2016PYQ 1

What is 'Greenhouse Gas Protocol'?

GEO_GS, GS1 2020PYQ 2

India has committed to reduce emission intensity of its GDP from 2005 levels by 33-35 per cent by the year:

GS-3Species

9.Northern White Rhino Conservation (Endangered Species)

The HinduCeratotherium simum cottoni · IVF embryos · Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Illustration for Northern White Rhino Conservation (Endangered Species)

What & Where

White rhino = square-lipped rhinoceros, one of five rhino species, Afrikaans “weit” = wide muzzle

Two subspecies: Southern (Ceratotherium simum simum) & Northern (C. s. cottoni)

Northern subspecies down to 2 females at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya; IVF created 36 embryos for rescue

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

IVF programme harvested oocytes, fertilised with frozen male sperm, produced 36 viable embryos
Embryos await uterine transfer into surrogate Southern females to rebuild Northern genotype
Collaboration among Ol Pejeta, Leibniz-IZW, Avantea; showcases assisted reproduction in megafauna

Biological Traits

Two-horn morphology, keratin composition, anterior horn primary for combat and display
Wide square muzzle adapts for lawn-mower style grazing on short grasses
Thick grey skin; “white” misnomer stems from Afrikaans “weit,” not pigmentation difference

Geography & Distribution

Southern subspecies stronghold South Africa; smaller groups Kenya, Namibia, Zimbabwe
Historic Northern range once included Uganda, Chad, Sudan; now functionally extinct in wild
Remaining Northern duo kept under 24×7 armed guard within 700-acre enclosure at Ol Pejeta

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Common name	White / square-lipped rhino
Scientific name	Ceratotherium simum
Subspecies count	2 – Southern & Northern
IUCN status–Southern	Near Threatened
IUCN status–Northern	Critically Endangered
Northern survivors	2 females (Najin, Fatu)
IVF embryos	36, stored in liquid nitrogen
Planned surrogates	Southern white rhino females
Habitat	Long & short grass savannahs
Diet	Exclusive grazers on short grasses
Body size rank	Second-largest land mammal
Horns	Two; front horn larger
Lip type	Square, wide upper lip
Colour difference	None between white & black rhinos

GS-3EnvironmentQuick Bite

10.Water Ministers’ Conference Initiatives (Water Management)

PIBmicro-irrigation · Jal Jeevan Mission · AMRUT

What & Where

Conference: 2nd All-India State Water Ministers’ Conference, pan-India policy forum on water management

Venue: Udaipur, Rajasthan; theme “India@2047 – A Water Secure Nation”

Focus: Integrated initiatives across agriculture, rivers, drinking water, storage and governance for long-term security

Quick Facts for MCQs

Agricultural Water Management

Micro-irrigation: Push for drip, sprinkler, Pressurised Irrigation Networks to lift farm water-use efficiency
ET-based assessment: Evapotranspiration metrics suggested for real-time crop water need tracking
Expansion target: Wider micro-irrigation coverage to cut agri withdrawal share

River Rejuvenation

Floodplain zoning recommended to curb encroachment and manage seasonal flows
Springs rejuvenation proposed to naturally augment base flow in upper catchments
Consumption quantification: Emphasis on measuring sectoral withdrawals for evidence-led restoration

Drinking Water & Sanitation

Jal Jeevan Mission: Strengthening via Village Water & Sanitation Committees for post-HH-tap sustainability
AMRUT focus: Urban supply upgrades and non-revenue water reduction
Grey-water reuse: Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 flagged for decentralised treatment and recycling

Water Storage & Infrastructure

ERM priority: Extension, Renovation, Modernisation of aging dams and tanks to extend service life
Small water bodies: Restoration highlighted for localised rural-urban supply buffers
Automated reservoirs: Call for SCADA-based operations to optimise releases

Governance & Participation

IWRM adoption: State-specific integrated resource planning urged for basin-level coherence
Grassroots role: Scaling “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari” to embed community stewardship
Data governance: Push for transparent, interoperable water information systems

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Edition	2nd
Date	Feb 2025
Venue city	Udaipur
Host state	Rajasthan
Organising ministry	Jal Shakti
Conference theme	India@2047 – A Water Secure Nation
1st edition venue	Bhopal (Jan 2023)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2012PYQ 1

If National Water Mission is properly and completely implemented, how will it impact the country?

ESE_GS, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following statements regarding the aim of Jal Jeevan Mission to provide every rural household of the country with adequate tap water of prescribed quality on regular basis:

GS-3Scheme

11.Technology Adoption Fund for Space (Space Startups)

Times of IndiaIN-SPACe · funding up to ₹25 crore · Department of Space

What & Where

Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) — IN-SPACe scheme financing transition of early-stage Indian space tech to market-ready products.

Process: grants cover ≤60 % cost for startups/MSMEs, ≤40 % for larger industry; cap ₹25 crore per project.

Geography: Implemented by IN-SPACe, HQ Bopal-Ahmedabad, under Department of Space, Govt of India.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Funding-mix encourages indigenous IP creation, reducing import dependence on space hardware and services.
Scheme supports product development, process enhancement, patent generation within domestic ecosystem.

Economic Angle

Lower capital barrier aims to accelerate growth of ~190 Indian space startups/MSMEs.
Public money leverage expected to crowd-in private investment, boosting overall sector valuation.

Institutional Setup

IN-SPACe facilitates private access to ISRO labs, launchpads, testing facilities.
Body authorises, supervises and promotes non-governmental space activities under Space Act reforms.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Implementing body	IN-SPACe (autonomous DOS unit)
IN-SPACe set-up year	2020
TAF launch year	2024
Max funding share – startups/MSMEs	60 % of project cost
Max funding share – large industry	40 % of project cost
Funding ceiling per project	₹25 crore
Eligible entities	All non-government entities with viable space tech
Core focus areas	Launch vehicles, satellites, space-based services
IN-SPACe HQ	Bopal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Key IN-SPACe mandate	Single-window for private space activities

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2020PYQ 1

What is TADF?

GS-3S&T

12.Electronic Pilot Licence Initiative (Digital Aviation)

Economic TimeseGCA app · DGCA · ICAO Amendment 178

Illustration for Electronic Pilot Licence Initiative (Digital Aviation)

What & Where

Electronic Personnel License (EPL): digital pilot licence issued by DGCA, India

Hosted on eGCA mobile app; replaces plastic smart-card licences nationwide

India = 2nd country worldwide (after China) to roll out ICAO-aligned e-licensing

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Digital format eliminates printing/shipping delays, enables instant updates
eGCA app provides 24×7 offline QR code for authenticity checks
Part of Digital India stack modernising civil-aviation workflows

Environmental Impact

Removal of plastic cards lowers polymer consumption and associated carbon footprint
Paperless processing trims administrative stationery waste
Aligns with GoI’s green-governance targets in transport sector

International Examples

China first to operationalise ICAO e-licence standard
DGCA adoption positions India as early mover in Asia-Pacific digital licensing
Facilitates global pilot mobility via interoperable electronic credentials

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Implementing ministry	Ministry of Civil Aviation
Licence issuing authority	Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
Global rank in adoption	Second, after China
ICAO compliance	Amendment 178 to Annex 1
Access platform	eGCA Mobile Application
Key objectives	Safety, security, efficiency; Ease of Doing Business
Sustainability angle	Cuts plastic & paper use
Verification benefit	Real-time credential check for global employers

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI 2021PYQ 1

E-100 pilot project, launched in Pune in June 2021, is related to the production and distribution of

GS-2Security

13.India–US COMPACT Partnership Highlights (India-US Defence)

Indian ExpressMajor Defence Partnership · Mission 500 trade · Javelin co-production

What & Where

COMPACT: US-India pact catalyzing military partnership, accelerated commerce & technology; launched Washington DC, 21 Feb 2025

Ten-year Major Defence Partnership (2025-35) steers defence sales, co-production, joint Indo-Pacific exercises

Covers trade, energy, critical tech, space & mobility, eyeing USD 500 bn bilateral trade by 2030

Quick Facts for MCQs

Defence Collaboration

Framework renews Major Defence Partnership; adds Reciprocal Defence Procurement for smoother arms sourcing
Javelin ATGM production, ASIA for autonomous systems, enlarged Tiger Triumph exercise pipeline
Quad used for counterterrorism cooperation and Indo-Pacific maritime security

Trade & Investment

Mission 500 with upcoming Bilateral Trade Agreement trims tariffs on beverages, vehicles, ICT hardware
Greater US market access for Indian farm, pharma products; semiconductor supply-chain integration pushed
US cumulative FDI 2000-24 at USD 65.19 bn; IMEEC corridor earmarked for freight diversification

Technology & Energy

TRUST drives collaboration in semiconductors, quantum, AI; establishes lithium, rare-earth supply lines
NASA-ISRO projects: NISAR launch and first Indian astronaut visit to ISS backed by COMPACT
Energy basket widens oil, gas, civil nuclear; US formally supports India’s IEA membership bid

Challenges

Tariff frictions persist; absence of FTA sustains high duties despite reciprocal rhetoric
Immigration stress: undocumented return clause, uncertain H-1B quotas hamper talent mobility
Divergences on Russia, data localization and sensitive tech transfer test strategic convergence

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch date	21 Feb 2025
Mission 500 target	USD 500 bn trade by 2030
2024 goods trade	USD 129.2 bn
2024 India surplus	USD 45.7 bn
US FDI rank	3rd largest in India
Defence framework span	2025 – 2035
Tech pact rename	iCET → TRUST
Co-production focus	Javelin ATGM

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2022PYQ 1

समृद्धि के लिए हिंद-प्रशांत आर्थिक ढाँचा (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity) का गठन करते समय, सदस्य देशों ने चार स्तंभों पर भावी समझौता-वार्ता के लिए सामूहिक परिचर्चा शुरू की है। उन स्तंभों में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा नहीं है ?

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2026PYQ 2

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

GS-2MiscQuick Bite

14.Colour Revolutions in Post-Soviet States (Democratic Uprisings)

The HinduRose Revolution · Orange Revolution · Tulip Revolution

Illustration for Colour Revolutions in Post-Soviet States (Democratic Uprisings)

What & Where

Colour Revolutions: peaceful, colour-coded mass protests in post-Soviet states to replace pro-Moscow regimes.

Aim: install democratic, frequently pro-Western governments; Russia brands them Western interference.

Core geography: Eastern Europe & Central Asia, notably Georgia, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan.

Quick Facts for MCQs

International Examples

Rose Revolution 2003 in Georgia symbolised by roses, ended pro-Moscow rule
Orange Revolution 2004 in Ukraine challenged disputed presidential runoff
Tulip Revolution 2005 in Kyrgyzstan triggered leadership change

Security Dimension

Russia views colour revolutions as hybrid Western aggression undermining its sphere
2024 Georgian protests arose after incumbent alleged fraud and refused to concede
Post-revolution nations often experience prolonged political instability and corruption

Country Geography

Georgia located in Caucasus, bridging Eastern Europe and West Asia
Shares land borders with Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey; maritime boundary on Black Sea
Strategic transit corridor amplifies external geopolitical interests

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Definition	Peaceful, colour-branded uprisings in post-Soviet space
First major case	Georgia’s Rose Revolution 2003
Other key cases	Ukraine Orange 2004; Kyrgyzstan Tulip 2005
Common outcomes	Initial democratic gains followed by instability, corruption, disillusionment
Russian perception	Threat to regional influence, proxy Western meddling
Georgia borders	Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey; Black Sea coast

GS-3SecurityQuick Bite

15.Distributed Denial of Service Attack (Cyber Security)

The Hindubotnets · traffic flooding · Kaveri 2.0 portal

Illustration for Distributed Denial of Service Attack (Cyber Security)

What & Where

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS); cyber-attack that overloads target with malicious traffic

Hit Karnataka’s “Kaveri 2.0” property-registration portal; caused prolonged downtime

Uses botnet of multiple compromised devices instead of single source

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Vulnerability; public-facing e-governance portals attractive to volumetric attacks
Detection; abnormal surge in concurrent requests signals ongoing DDoS
Response; incident plan plus real-time scrubbing vital for continuity

Tech & Schemes

Botnet; geographically dispersed hijacked devices amplify traffic volumes
CAPTCHAs; distinguish humans from automated scripts, throttling malicious flows
Security audit; periodic stress-testing uncovers bandwidth thresholds

Economic Angle

Revenue loss; halted property registrations delay stamp-duty collection
Recovery cost; additional bandwidth, mitigation appliances, forensic analysis
Indirect loss; citizen hours wasted, productivity dip

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Target portal	Kaveri 2.0, Karnataka
Attack category	Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
Primary vector	Botnet-generated fake accounts & automated requests
Immediate impact	Portal downtime, service disruption
Reputation risk	Exposes cybersecurity gaps; erodes public trust
Key defences	Traffic filtering, rate-limiting, CAPTCHA, behavioural analysis, MFA

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-1Editorial

16.Live-in Relationship Registration Debate (Privacy Rights)

Indian ExpressUCC · Nainital High Court · Badri Prasad case

What & Where

Definition: consensual cohabitation of two adults without marriage, rooted in Mitru Sambhandh concept

Geography: legality clarified mainly through Indian Supreme Court & various HCs; recent Nainital HC under Uttarakhand UCC spotlight

Process queried: draft UCC Rule-6 mandates 30-day registration of every live-in union before Sub-Registrar

Quick Facts for MCQs

Judicial Precedents

Badri Prasad 1978, Lata Singh 2006, Khushboo 2010, Shafin Jahan 2018 affirm autonomy and legitimacy
Kiran Rawat 2023 flagged ambiguity under Islamic law for interfaith cohabitation
Courts view prolonged cohabitation as rebuttable presumption of marriage for inheritance, legitimacy

Privacy & Autonomy

Mandate Concerns: compulsory listing seen as state intrusion into intimate sphere protected post-Puttaswamy
Support View: registration purportedly offers maintenance, property, domestic-violence shield
Cultural Clash: traditional sanctity of marriage fuels social stigma, moral policing

Policy & Reform

Need: clear legal definition, optional registration, gender-neutral rights across personal laws
Suggestions: public awareness drives, stakeholder consultation, judicial oversight on UCC rules
Balance Aim: safeguard individual choice while ensuring remedies for abandonment, abuse

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Key 1978 verdict	Badri Prasad presumed marriage after 50-yr cohabitation
First SC nod	Lata Singh 2006 upheld inter-caste live-in freedom
Privacy anchor	Puttaswamy 2017 treats intimate choices as fundamental right
Uttarakhand UCC status	Passed 2024; yet to be notified
Possible jail term for non-registration (draft)	up to 3 months fine ₹10,000

GS-1Polity

17.Draft UGC Regulations 2025 Debate (Higher Education)

Business StandardVC appointment · federal autonomy · UGC funding

What & Where

Draft UGC Regulations 2025: pan-India rules on VC appointment, teacher eligibility, funding conditions.

Issued by University Grants Commission, statutory body (UGC Act 1956), HQ New Delhi, under Ministry of Education.

Opposed by six states citing encroachment on state powers in higher-education administration.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Draft Provisions

Centralisation: State role in VC selection removed; Chancellor/Visitor to appoint from UGC-approved panel.
Academic-industry linkage: encourages joint research, Indian-language publications, sportspersons as faculty.
Compliance tool: Funding leverage to enforce standards across universities and colleges.

UGC Structure & Evolution

Origin: 1944 Sargeant Report → 1945 University Grants Committee → revamped 1953, statute 1956.
Mandate: Allocate grants, set standards, advise on higher-education reforms nationwide.
Jurisdiction: Coordination and determination of standards per Union List item 66.

Federalism Concerns

States allege erosion of cooperative federalism and institutional autonomy.
Appointment power shift seen as violating constitutional spirit of shared responsibilities.
Threat of funding cuts viewed as coercive central overreach.

Constitutional Lists

Union List: Standards coordination, national institutions (IIT, AIIMS), funding of technical education.
State List: Incorporation/regulation of general universities unless of national importance.
Concurrent List: Education, medical, technical training—allows dual legislation, enables NEP 2020, UGC, AICTE roles.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Draft regulation year	2025
Proposed VC tenure	5 years (current 3)
VC eligibility add-on	Non-academics with ≥10 yrs senior public-administration/policy experience
Penalty for non-compliance	Debarment from UGC schemes, funding denial
Mandatory entrance test	For all undergraduate admissions
UGC statutory since	1956 (UGC Act)
UGC composition	Chairman + Vice-Chairman + 10 members, all Centre-appointed
Education moved to Concurrent List	42nd Amendment, 1976

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the National Education Policy 2020 in India ?

ESE_GS, GS1 2006PYQ 2

Which one among the following commissions was set up in pursuance of a definite provision under an Article of the Constitution of India?

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