UPSC Current Affairs 24 March 2025

Q: Who among the following moved the motion of Secret Sitting Session of the Assembly (1942)?

The correct answer is (a) M. S. Aney. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2020.

Q: भारत की संसद में स्थगन प्रस्ताव के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा कथन सही नहीं है?

The correct answer is (d) अध्यक्ष को अनुमति देने से इनकार करने का पूर्ण विवेकाधिकार है।. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2025.

Q: India’s key climate targets include

The correct answer is (a) 1 and 2 only. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2025.

Q: India's installed solar capacity in 2025 is close to

The correct answer is (a) 70 GW. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: Consider the following statements with reference to India:

The correct answer is (b) 2 only. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2023.

Q: What is meant by MSME?

The correct answer is (d) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2020.

Q: Which one of the following statements about the religious policies of the Mughal kings is NOT correct?

The correct answer is (b) Akbar issues instructions to his officers to follow the policy of religious toleration. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2020.

Q: What was the immediate reason for Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India and fight the Third Battle of Panipat ?

The correct answer is (a) He wanted to avenge the expulsion by Marathas of his viceroy Timur Shah from Lahore. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2010.

Q: The Lahore session of Congress, held in 1929, was famous for:

The correct answer is (c) adoption of Poorna Swaraj as objective of Congress.. This question appeared in GEO_GS 2021.

Q: ‘सामक्रांति (सात क्रांतियों)’ का समाजवादी विचार किसके द्वारा प्रतिपादित था?

The correct answer is (c) एम. जी. रानाडे. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2020.

GS-2Editorial

1.Big Tech Competition Regulation (Competition Law)

The HinduCCI · Meta fine · WhatsApp privacy policy

What & Where

Case: CCI fined Meta ₹213 cr, banned WhatsApp-to-Meta data sharing (India, 2024 order on 2021 policy).

Forum: NCLAT granted stay, directing 50 % deposit, pending detailed appellate review.

Issue: Data-centric dominance, network effects, privacy-competition overlap in Indian digital markets.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

SupremeCourt 2015: Section 79 gives safe-harbour; blocking only via Section 69A, “necessary” under Article 19(2).
MeitY Sahyog portal 2024 allows Section 79 blocking, challenged by X Corp for overreach.
EU model: DMA targets gatekeepers; GDPR imposes heavy privacy fines, inspiring Indian ex-ante approach.

Regulatory Challenges

Lag: Competition Act lacks data-dominance tools; framed for price/output, not network effects.
Fragmentation: CCI, MeitY, yet-to-form Data Protection Board operate with weak coordination.
Transnationality: Cross-border operations hinder territorial enforcement; Meta simultaneously probed in US, EU, Australia.

Proposed Reforms

Recommendation: Digital Market & Data Unit inside CCI for time-bound digital cases.
Mandate: Algorithm transparency, interoperability, prohibition on cross-platform data sharing sans explicit consent.
Shift: Ex-ante scrutiny of SSDEs to curb lock-ins; central anonymised data repository for fair access.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
CCI penalty on Meta	₹213 crore
Data-sharing ban length	5 years
Appellate body staying order	NCLAT
Deposit ordered by NCLAT	50 % of fine
Law invoked by CCI	Competition Act 2002
Privacy policy under scanner	WhatsApp 2021 update
Proposed new statute	Digital Competition Act (CDCL 2023)
Tag for large platforms	SSDEs in Digital Competition Bill 2024
Data law passed	DPDP Act 2023
Blocking rule upheld in Shreya Singhal	IT Act Section 69A

GS-2Polity

2.Lok Sabha Secret Sitting Provision (Parliamentary Procedure)

Indian ExpressSecret Sitting · Lok Sabha · Article 118

What & Where

Definition: Closed-door session of Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha with no public or media presence

Location: Parliament of India; enabled by internal rules, not Constitution text

Purpose: Debate matters requiring confidentiality, records released only by House order

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Empowerment: Rules derive validity from Art 118 not from any explicit constitutional article
Secrecy status: Proceedings treated as confidential state documents until House decides otherwise
Disclosure: Subsequent publication enters official reports like Lok Sabha Debates only after release

Historical Footprint

1962 proposal: Lok Sabha moved to secret mode amid Chinese aggression, withdrawn on PM’s advice
No precedent: India unlike UK (e.g., WW-II) has never executed the provision
Continued relevance: Rule retained unchanged across successive editions of House rules

Procedure & Control

Motion: Leader submits written request, Speaker fixes date & time, members informed in advance
Chamber security: Galleries cleared, electronic transmission halted, staff sworn to secrecy
Adjournment: House resumes public sitting by separate motion or Speaker declaration

Breach & Penalties

Unauthorized leak: Attracts privilege motion, possible suspension, imprisonment within parliamentary precincts
Media curb: Reporting any part without sanction violates Parliament (Prevention of Disqualification) ethics
Deterrence: Strict rules aim to safeguard national security, sensitive diplomacy, or defense debates

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Constitutional hook	Art 118 empowers each House to make rules
Lok Sabha rule	Rule 248, Chapter 25, Rules of Procedure
Rajya Sabha rule	Rule 266, Rules of Procedure
Requesting authority	Leader of the House
Approving authority	Speaker (LS); Chairman (RS)
Visitors in chamber	Completely barred
Record publication	Only with Speaker/Chairman consent & House motion
Note-keeping by MPs	Prohibited during secret sitting
First proposed	1962 India-China war; PM Nehru declined
Official sittings held	None till date
Breach consequence	Gross breach of privilege; disciplinary action

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

Who among the following moved the motion of Secret Sitting Session of the Assembly (1942)?

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 2

भारत की संसद में स्थगन प्रस्ताव के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा कथन सही नहीं है?

GS-2Polity

3.Election Form 17C Details (Election Documentation)

The HinduForm 17C · Conduct of Election Rules 1961 · Representation of the People Act

Illustration for Election Form 17C Details (Election Documentation)

What & Where

Election form; captures booth-wise voter turnout & candidate-wise results across India.

Two segments: Part I “Account of Votes Recorded”, Part II “Result of Counting”.

Mandatory under Conduct of Election Rules 1961 framed via Representation of the People Act 1951.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Conduct Rules prescribe Form 17C use; non-compliance amounts to election malpractice.
Supreme Court hearing petition seeking online publication of booth-wise Form 17C data.
Public disclosure debate focuses on balancing transparency with secrecy of ballot.

Procedural Flow

Presiding Officer prepares Part I, gives signed copies to agents, seals original.
Strong Room custody continues till counting; then Returning Officer opens for tally.
After result declaration, certified copies can be sought through statutory channels.

Transparency & Accountability

Form 17C enables cross-verification of EVM counts with voter turnout.
Signatures of agents deter later tampering or data alteration.
Availability helps spot turnout-result mismatches, bolstering electoral trust.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Statute base	Conduct of Election Rules 1961
Parent Act	Representation of the People Act 1951
Parts in form	Part I & Part II
Part I filled by	Presiding Officer immediately after polling
Part II filled by	Returning Officer on counting day
Storage of Part I	Sealed in Strong Room till count
Key signatories	Polling/Counting agents + respective officer
Data recorded Part I	Electors, votes cast, EVM ID, tendered ballots, discrepancies
Data recorded Part II	Candidate-wise votes from EVM result button
Legal status	Signatures make entries legally binding

GS-2PolityQuick Bite

4.Permanent Residence Certificates for Morans (Residence Certification)

Indian ExpressMoran tribe · Permanent Residence Certificate · Assam policy

What & Where

Moran tribe — indigenous to Upper Assam; smaller pockets in adjoining Arunachal Pradesh.

Permanent Residence Certificate (PRC) — Assam government document proving long-term domicile.

2025 move: Assam to issue PRCs to Moran residents of Arunachal Pradesh.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Assam Cabinet decision extends domicile benefit beyond state boundary to preserve tribal rights.
Moran demand for Scheduled Tribe status in Assam remains pending.
PRC aids access to jobs, education, and land rights within Assam.

Cultural History

Neo-Vaishnavism promotes egalitarian worship, attracting lower-caste peasants like Morans.
Satras & Namghars serve as socio-religious nuclei across Upper Assam villages.
Aniruddha Deva’s preaching catalysed Moamoria identity formation.

Historical Rebellion

Moamoria revolt drained Ahom resources over three decades.
British military support pivotal in suppressing insurgents.
Resultant instability eased later colonial annexation of Assam.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Tribe classification	Indigenous community of Assam (seeking ST tag)
Core faith	Neo-Vaishnavism, Moamoria sect
Key reformer	Sri Aniruddha Deva (1553-1624), disciple of Srimanta Sankardev
Worship hubs	Satras (monasteries) & Namghars (village prayer halls)
PRC lineage rule	Forefathers in Assam ≥ 50 years
PRC residence rule	Applicant living in Assam ≥ 20 years
New policy scope	Moran people settled in Arunachal Pradesh
Historic uprising	Moamoria Revolt, 1769-1799
Revolt target	Ahom monarchy; sought British aid to suppress
Aftermath	Ahom weakness → Burmese conquest (First Anglo-Burmese War 1824-26) → British rule

GS-3Editorial

5.Green Growth for Viksit Bharat (Green Growth)

Indian ExpressViksit Bharat 2047 · Net Zero 2070 · Green Hydrogen Mission

What & Where

Green growth: development pathway linking ≥8 % GDP expansion with emissions decline, central to Viksit Bharat 2047 vision

Key processes: renewables scale-up, green hydrogen, PLI-driven clean manufacturing, carbon-pricing incentives

Core geography: pan-India push to cut 85 % oil-import dependence and coal dominance in power mix

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Jobs: WEF Mission 2070 foresees 50 million new positions across solar, EVs, hydrogen
Competitiveness: Decarbonised exports avert USD 150 billion annual carbon penalties by 2040
Energy security: Lower crude imports cushions trade deficit, rupee volatility

Tech & Schemes

Missions: National Green Hydrogen, 100 GW nuclear plan, grid-scale battery support in Budget 2025
Incentives: PLI for solar modules, advanced batteries, other green tech boosts domestic manufacturing
Capacity: Target 500 GW renewables backed by 180 GW present base, fastest global expansion rate

Challenges & Risks

Finance: USD 290 billion funding gap to 2030; blended-finance, green bonds proposed
Skills: 3.7 million technicians must be trained for RE sector by 2030
Climate impacts: Heat stress threatens agriculture, labour productivity, slicing GDP up to 4.5 %

Policy Tools & Way Ahead

Instruments: Carbon pricing, sovereign green bonds, PLI tweaks to steer private capital
Demand-side: Affordable resilient tech for farmers, MSMEs; priority sector green credit
Collaboration: Global tech transfer, joint R&D on hydrogen, CCUS, grid modernisation

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Viksit Bharat timeline	2047
Net-zero commitment	2070
Green jobs potential	50 million by 2070
Added GDP from green shift	USD 1 trillion by 2030
Renewable capacity target	500 GW by 2030
Current RE installed	180 + GW (2024)
Green hydrogen goal	5 MMT yr⁻¹ by 2030
Needed RE investment	USD 290 billion by 2030
Coal share in power	55–60 %
Extreme-heat GDP risk	2.5–4.5 % loss by 2030

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2025PYQ 1

India’s key climate targets include

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 2

India's installed solar capacity in 2025 is close to

GS-3Economy

6.Anti-Dumping Duties Framework (Trade Remedies)

Hindustan TimesAnti-dumping duty · DGTR · Ministry of Finance

What & Where

Anti-dumping duty: tariff countering imports sold below “normal value” to prevent injury to local producers.

India: DGTR investigates & recommends; Department of Revenue (FinMin) imposes for set period.

Latest move: Duties on 5 Chinese products, applicable up to 5 years.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

WTO-compliant measure; considered remedial not protectionist under multilateral rules.
Imposition needs proof of “material injury” and dumping margin via DGTR investigation.
Finance Ministry notification essential before duty becomes operational.

Economic Angle

Duty shields domestic makers from price undercutting, preserves capacity utilisation and jobs.
May raise input costs for downstream users; review mechanisms balance producer–consumer interests.

Tech & Uses

Soft Ferrite Cores critical for EV chargers, telecom gear.
Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid widely used in water treatment & pools.
PVC Paste Resin feeds artificial leather, flooring, toys industries.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
WTO legal basis	GATT Article 6; WTO Anti-Dumping Agreement
Recommending agency	Directorate General of Trade Remedies (Commerce)
Levying authority	Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance
Standard validity	≤ 5 years, subject to review
Recent goods hit	Soft Ferrite Cores, Vacuum Flasks, Al Foil, TCCA, PVC Paste Resin

GS-3Economy

7.Revised MSME Classification Criteria (MSME Policy)

News on AirMSME definition · Investment limit · Turnover limit

Illustration for Revised MSME Classification Criteria (MSME Policy)

What & Where

MSME re-classification; India-wide; under MSME Development Act 2006

Thresholds now based on higher investment & turnover for Micro, Small, Medium units

Notified by Ministry of MSME; effective 1 Apr 2025

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Amendment revises Schedule specifying enterprise size limits under MSMED Rules
Aligns statutory definition with contemporary cost structures and inflation trends
Facilitates uniform criteria investment+turnover, avoiding manufacturing-services split

Economic Angle

Higher caps allow firms to grow without losing benefits, encouraging formal expansion
Enhanced eligibility eases bank lending under priority sector norms
Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat push for resilient local supply chains

Sectoral Impact

Potential inclusion of ~1.5 lakh additional units into MSME fold (govt estimate)
Likely boost employment, MSMEs currently 30% of GDP share
Simplified classification aids digital portals like Udyam for quick registration

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Governing Act section	Sec 7, MSMED Act 2006
Notification authority	Ministry of MSME, GoI
Announcement platform	Union Budget speech
Effective date	1 April 2025
Multiplier over old limits	Investment ×5; Turnover ×2
Micro: investment cap	₹2.5 crore
Micro: turnover cap	₹10 crore
Small: investment cap	₹25 crore
Small: turnover cap	₹100 crore
Medium: investment cap	₹125 crore
Medium: turnover cap	₹500 crore
Previous Micro investment	₹1 crore
Previous Small turnover	₹50 crore
Previous Medium investment	₹50 crore
Policy goal	Scaling-up, credit access, market reach

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2023PYQ 1

Consider the following statements with reference to India:

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2020PYQ 2

What is meant by MSME?

GS-1History

8.Aurangzeb and Maratha Struggle (Mughal-Maratha Conflict)

Indian ExpressAurangzeb · Jizya tax · Temple demolition

What & Where

Aurangzeb – sixth Mughal emperor (1658-1707); empire largest yet riven by southern wars

Maratha Empire – Western Deccan kingdom founded by Shivaji 1674; hill-forts and Ghats suited to guerrilla tactics

Khuldabad near Aurangabad – houses Aurangzeb’s 1707 grave now facing demolition calls

Quick Facts for MCQs

Religious Policies

Jizya, pilgrim taxes revived; Akbar’s sulh-i-kul reversed
1669 order razed Kashi Vishwanath, Keshavdev; temple valuables appropriated
Guru Tegh Bahadur executed 1675; catalysed Khalsa militarisation

Administrative Measures

Mansabdars on fixed salaries; Daag & Chehra checks revived to curb fraud
Subahdar, Zamindar autonomy reduced; Zabt assessment retained despite famines
Fatawa-e-Alamgiri standardised Hanafi law, lending the state a theocratic tint

Economic & Military Angle

Prolonged Deccan, Rajput campaigns drained treasury; heavy war-booty reliance
Trade rules favoured Muslim merchants; rigid Islamic contracts dampened entrepreneurship
Shivaji fielded 30-40 k cavalry, first Indian blue-water navy; soldiers paid cash, chiefs via Saranjam

Maratha Resistance

Shivaji raided Junnar 1657, Surat 1664; escaped Aurangzeb’s Agra court 1666
Sambhaji’s guerrilla blows 1681-89 stalled Mughal advance till his capture
Tarabai, then Shahu with Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, sustained post-1700 resurgence

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Aurangzeb’s accession	1658
Jizya re-imposed	1679
Temple-demolition farman	1669
Fatawa-e-Alamgiri compiled	1667-75
Sack of Burhanpur	1681 by Sambhaji
Sambhaji’s execution	11 March 1689
Shivaji’s coronation	1674 at Raigad
Ashtapradhan members	8
Chauth levy rate	25 % on alien areas
Sardeshmukhi levy	10 % extra tribute

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2020PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements about the religious policies of the Mughal kings is NOT correct?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2010PYQ 2

What was the immediate reason for Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India and fight the Third Battle of Panipat ?

GS-1History

9.Shaheed Diwas Commemoration (Martyrs Remembrance)

Indian ExpressShaheed Diwas · Bhagat Singh · Sukhdev

Illustration for Shaheed Diwas Commemoration (Martyrs Remembrance)

What & Where

Observance: Shaheed Diwas/Martyrs’ Day on 23 March across India.

Commemorates: hanging of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, Shivaram Rajguru, Lahore Central Jail, 1931.

Distinct: NOT the 30 January Martyrs’ Day that marks Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Revolutionary Actions

Saunders shooting: 17 Dec 1928, Lahore; planned to punish Scott for Rai’s death.
Assembly bombing: low-intensity devices, leaflets; duo surrendered to publicise revolution.
Execution: ages 23-24; remains secretly cremated on Sutlej riverbank.

Organisations & Ideology

HRA renamed HSRA in 1928; objective: socialist republic via armed struggle.
Naujawan Bharat Sabha (1926) mobilised Punjab youth; open, anti-imperialist platform.
Influences: Marxism, anarchism, Iqbal’s poetry shaped slogan and programme.

Prison & Protest

1929 jail hunger strike demanded equal political-prisoner treatment; lasted 112 days collectively.
Jatin Das died on 63rd day; strike stirred nationwide sympathy.
Court speeches, writings (Kirti editorship) spread socialist, anti-colonial thought.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Alternate name	Sarvodaya Day
Executed trio	Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru
Execution date	23 March 1931
Execution place	Lahore Central Jail
Crime charged	Murder of ASP John Saunders (1928)
Mistaken target	Superintendent James Scott
Avenged leader	Lala Lajpat Rai (died after lathi-charge)
Assembly bombing	8 April 1929, Delhi
Slogan raised	“Inquilab Zindabad”
Key organisation	Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

The Lahore session of Congress, held in 1929, was famous for:

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

10.Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Legacy (Freedom Leader)

PIBRam Manohar Lohia · Congress Socialist Party · Sapta Kranti

Illustration for Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Legacy (Freedom Leader)

What & Where

Ram Manohar Lohia (1910-1967): socialist thinker, freedom-fighter from Uttar Pradesh, India.

Worked within and beyond Indian National Congress; opposed British rule, WWII involvement.

Operated nationally; ideas on decentralised governance (Chaukhambha Raj) aimed at pan-India application.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Freedom Struggle

Led underground propaganda, arrests during Quit India Movement.
Publicly opposed British WWII effort; multiple imprisonments 1939-46.

Political Career

General Secretary, Praja Socialist Party 1952-55; resigned over policy rifts.
Post-1964 faction became Samyukta Socialist Party under his influence.

Ideological Contributions

Sapta Kranti: targets caste, gender, colonialism, capitalism, inequality, war, ecological neglect.
Advocated Hindi as link language; emphasised socio-economic equality over mere political freedom.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth date	23 March 1910
Birth place	Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh
Joined CSP	1934; executive member & journal editor
Quit Congress	1948
Formed Socialist Party	Hyderabad, 1955 (chairman)
Lok Sabha entry	1963, Farrukhabad seat
Signature doctrine	Sapta Kranti (Seven Revolutions)
Governance model	Chaukhambha Raj: four-tier decentralisation
Key movement jailed	Quit India, 1942
Death	12 Oct 1967, New Delhi

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

‘सामक्रांति (सात क्रांतियों)’ का समाजवादी विचार किसके द्वारा प्रतिपादित था?

GS-1Mapping

11.George VI Ice Shelf Overview (Antarctic Ice Shelf)

Indian ExpressGeorge VI Ice Shelf · A-84 iceberg · Bellingshausen Sea

Illustration for George VI Ice Shelf Overview (Antarctic Ice Shelf)

What & Where

Floating ice shelf occupying George VI Sound between Alexander Island & Palmer Land, Antarctica.

Borders Bellingshausen Sea; ice >150 m thick, water column reaches ~1,300 m.

Post-A-84 calving expedition exposed rich sub-ice ecosystem for first time.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biodiversity

Giant sea spiders, corals, octopi, phantom jellyfish recorded beneath 150 m ice.
Organisms thrive without sunlight, indicating alternative energy or nutrient pathways.
Multiple specimens likely represent previously undescribed species.

Climate Implications

Under-ice community resilience informs projections for ice-shelf-loss scenarios.
Shelf melt could disrupt nutrient delivery, reshaping Southern Ocean food webs.
Data refine polar carbon-sequestration and climate-feedback models.

Research & Exploration

Natural access window created by A-84 calving enabled submersible sampling.
Challenger 150 aims to map global deep-sea ecosystems through 2030.
Surveys employed trawls and cameras down to 1,300 m within George VI Sound.

Conservation Angle

Findings bolster case for new Antarctic Peninsula Marine Protected Areas.
Under-ice habitats deemed vulnerable to warming, fishing, and acidification.
Supports stronger CCAMLR conservation measures under treaty framework.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Location	George VI Sound, Antarctica
Separates	Alexander Island & Palmer Land
Adjacent Sea	Bellingshausen Sea, Southern Ocean
Ice thickness	>150 m
Water depth	~1,300 m
Governance	Antarctic Treaty System
Lead research nations	United Kingdom; United States
Calved iceberg	A-84
Expedition programme	UNESCO Challenger 150
Species depth record	1,300 m

GS-3Environment

12.UNEP Global Environmental Data Strategy (Environmental Data)

UNGEDS · UNEP · Data interoperability

Illustration for UNEP Global Environmental Data Strategy (Environmental Data)

What & Where

Strategy: UNEP’s Global Environmental Data Strategy, global blueprint for high-quality, shareable environmental data.

Pillars: Data quality, governance, interoperability, inclusive access, capacity-building.

Timeline: Drafting 2024-25; adoption aimed by Dec 2025 for climate, pollution, biodiversity action.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Governance & Structure

Data-Governance: promotes ethical, sustainable data management frameworks.
Provenance: standardises classification, traceability of datasets for credibility.
Multistakeholder: governments, academia, private sector share stewardship roles.

Benefits & Opportunities

Decision-Making: evidence-based policies via reliable, granular datasets.
Innovation: enables AI, advanced analytics for environmental solutions.
Collaboration: harmonised standards boost cross-border research and monitoring.

Implementation Challenges

Resource-Gap: limited funds, tech expertise in developing countries.
Privacy-Balance: open access versus ethical data protections.
Consensus: differing national standards slow interoperability agreements.

SDG Linkages

SDG 13, 14, 15: data backbone for climate, oceans, terrestrial ecosystems targets.
SDG 17: strengthens global partnerships through shared information infrastructure.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Lead agency	United Nations Environment Programme
Finalisation target	December 2025
Pillar count	Five
Core crises	Climate change / Pollution / Biodiversity loss
Access rule	Open, affordable, machine-readable data
Interoperability tool	Federated global & thematic standards
Capacity priority	Global South skill-building
Equity aim	Narrow North-South data divide

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2022PYQ 1

“जलवायु कार्रवाई ट्रैकर (क्लाइमेट ऐक्शन ट्रैकर)” जो विभिन्न देशों के उत्सर्जन अनुमानों के लिए दिए गए वचनों की निगरानी करता है, क्या है ?

GS-3Species

13.Anthurium Flower Species Highlights (Ornamental Flora)

ANIAnthurium · Mizoram export · Araceae

What & Where

Anthurium flower — herbaceous ornamental of Araceae; inflorescence = spadix + showy spathe.

Native Americas (N. Mexico → N. Argentina + Caribbean); Indian hotspot = Mizoram & other North-East hills.

Feb 2024: first export consignment from Mizoram flagged to Singapore via APEDA.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Botanical Traits

Growth: Shade-loving; thick, glossy leaves; thrives 20-30 °C, high humidity.
Propagation: Seed, tissue culture, suckers; spathe coloration key commercial trait.
Caution: Sap irritates skin/eyes; ingestion poisonous to pets & humans.

Economic Angle

Revenue: Anthurium a premium cut-flower, boosts northeastern growers’ income.
Logistics: Requires cold-chain 18-22 °C, airfreight within 48 h for vase life retention.
APEDA: Facilitates pack-house certification, export documentation for floriculture.

International Trade

Singapore dispatch: Part of India’s Look-East export diversification.
Demand: Asian wedding & décor markets seeking long-lasting exotic blooms.
Future targets: Japan, Australia, Gulf retail chains under negotiation.

Festivals & Culture

Tourism: Anthurium Festival coincides with Mizoram’s autumn, draws domestic & foreign visitors.
Events: Flower exhibitions, grower training, handicraft fairs promote rural livelihoods.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scientific name	Anthurium spp.
Plant habit	Epiphytic or terrestrial herb
Toxic principle	Calcium oxalate crystals
Export value FY 24 (floriculture)	USD 86.62 million
Leading floriculture states share	Tamil Nadu 21 % > Karnataka 16 % > MP 14 % > WB 12 %
Major importing countries	USA, Netherlands, UAE, UK, Canada
Mizoram event	Annual Anthurium Festival
Inflorescence parts	Spadix & colorful spathe (red, pink, orange…)
Reproductive output	Juicy berries containing seeds
First new market 2024	Singapore

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2011PYQ 1

Among the following States, which one has the most suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of production, and can develop an export-oriented industry in this field?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

14.Photo-Assisted Self-Charging Battery Technology (Energy Storage Tech)

PIBSelf-charging battery · Photo-assisted charge · Air cathode

Illustration for Photo-Assisted Self-Charging Battery Technology (Energy Storage Tech)

What & Where

Definition: Photo-assisted, self-charging energy storage device combining solar conversion with oxygen-driven auto-recharge.

Key process: Dual charging—photo-assisted via light, air-assisted via atmospheric O₂ at air cathode.

Geography: Developed in India; info released through PIB (GoI).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology & Innovation

Air-cathode enables oxygen reduction, harvesting ambient O₂ for self-recharge.
Charge-separating layer boosts photon absorption, curbing recombination losses.

Performance Metrics

Rapid-charge: 0.9 V OCP achieved in under 2½ minutes.
Enhanced energy retention delivers 170 % higher storage when illuminated.

Application Scope

Renewable integration: Acts as storage buffer for intermittent solar.
Mobility: Potential lightweight solution for electric vehicles and drones.

Research & Development

Indian public-sector laboratory backed by Government of India initiative.
Seeks scaling pathways for large-format cells and manufacturing.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Primary energy inputs	Sunlight + atmospheric oxygen
Dual components	Air cathode & charge-separating layer
Light current density tested	0.02 mA cm⁻²
Energy storage gain under light	170 % over dark state
Open-circuit potential reached	0.9 V in 140 s
Peak OCP observed	1 V
Main limitation erased vs photo-batteries	Need for external charger
Illustrative uses	Renewable grids, EVs, off-grid power

GS-2MiscQuick Bite

15.World Happiness Report 2025 Findings (Happiness Index)

Indian ExpressWorld Happiness Report 2025 · Finland rank · India 118th

What & Where

World Happiness Report 2025: annual index by Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, Gallup & UN-SDSN, released every 20 March.

Measures self-rated life satisfaction on 0–10 ladder, averaged over the last three Gallup World Poll years.

Coverage 147 countries; Finland tops, Afghanistan ranks last.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Global Rankings

Finland 1st; Denmark 2nd; Iceland 3rd; Sweden 4th.
India rises eight spots; Pakistan 109th, Myanmar 126th, Sri Lanka 133rd, Bangladesh 134th.
Sierra Leone 146th, Lebanon 145th, Malawi 144th, Zimbabwe 143rd.

Methodology

Indicators combined into single happiness score against hypothetical dystopia baseline.
Three-year average 2022-24 improves statistical reliability.
Trust, social connections, generosity often outweigh GDP in explaining variations.

UN Observance

Day established by UNGA resolution, July 2012, after Bhutan’s advocacy.
Celebrates holistic development beyond GDP via Gross National Happiness concept.
2025 observance stresses collective wellbeing through “Caring and Sharing”.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Release day	World Happiness Day, 20 March 2025
2025 theme	“Caring and Sharing”
Publishing partners	Oxford WRC, Gallup, UN-SDSN
Happiest country	Finland (8th consecutive year)
India’s rank 2025	118th
India’s rank 2024	126th
Best South Asian rank	Nepal – 92nd
Bottom country	Afghanistan – 147th
Consecutive years Afghanistan last	4
Indicators counted	6 (GDP, support, life expectancy, freedom, generosity, corruption)
UNGA recognition year	2012
Originating nation	Bhutan (GNH focus)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2024PYQ 1

Arrange the following countries in the descending order of their rank in the World Happiness Report, based on a three-year average 2020-2022, published by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network:

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2023PYQ 2

विश्व का एकमात्र देश कौन-सा है, जिसने आधिकारिक रूप से सकल राष्ट्रीय खुशहाली (GNH) को देश की प्रगति का मान्य मापक घोषित किया है ?

GS-3Security

16.Tavasya Stealth Frigate Launch (Naval Frigate)

PIBTavasya · Project 1135.6 · Goa Shipyard

Illustration for Tavasya Stealth Frigate Launch (Naval Frigate)

What & Where

Tavasya – Krivak-class stealth frigate launched 22 Mar 2025 at Goa Shipyard Limited, Goa.

Part of India-Russia Project 1135.6 “Additional Follow-on Ships” for multi-role naval combat.

Strengthens Indian Navy’s blue-water presence in Arabian Sea & Indian Ocean.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technical Specs

Propulsion: Gas-turbine mix enabling 28 knots high-speed manoeuvre.
Sensors: AESA radar & hull-mounted sonar for 360° detection envelope.
Weapon suite: BrahMos, torpedoes, air-defence SAMs for tri-domain lethality.

Production & Collaboration

Aatmanirbharta: Over 75 % indigenous fittings in Indian-built hulls.
Russia: Designs, critical systems supplied under Transfer-of-Technology pact.
GSL: First time constructing 3,600 t class stealth frigate domestically.

Strategic Significance

Deterrence: Enhances maritime dominance across choke-points like Strait of Hormuz & Malacca.
Fleet mix: Complements P-15B destroyers & P-17A frigates for layered task-groups.
Export learnings: Upskills Indian yards for future South-East Asian orders.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Class	Krivak-class stealth frigate
Project code	1135.6 (Addl. Follow-on)
Builder	Goa Shipyard Limited
Tech partner	Russia (ToT)
Launch date	22 March 2025
Length	8 m (article figure)
Beam	15.2 m
Displacement	3,600 t
Top speed	28 knots
Primary missile	BrahMos
Indigenous fit	Torpedo launchers, auxiliary control systems
Combat envelope	Surface, sub-surface, air
Name inspiration	Bhima’s mace “Tavasya”
Earlier Russian-built sisters	INS Tushil (Dec 2024), Tamal (Jun 2025)
Indian-built sisters	Triput (Jul 2024), Tavasya (Mar 2025)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements about 'INS Tarmugli' is not correct?

CDS_GK, GS1 2004PYQ 2

INS Trishul acquired by the Indian Navy in 2003 has been built by

GS-1Editorial

17.India's Tuberculosis Control Initiatives (Tuberculosis Control)

The HinduBPaLM regimen · Nikshay Poshan Yojana · TB incidence

Illustration for India's Tuberculosis Control Initiatives (Tuberculosis Control)

What & Where

Tuberculosis (TB): contagious mycobacterial lung disease; India carries world’s heaviest caseload.

BPaLM regimen: 6-month drug-resistant-TB therapy deployed nationwide under National TB Elimination Programme.

WHO EndTB Initiative: global push for universal TB care and 90% mortality drop by 2030.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Progress Metrics

Decline: Incidence dropped 42 cases/lakh between 2015-2023
Diagnostics: Rapid molecular testing decentralised to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and PHCs
Champions: Treated survivors enlisted as grassroots adherence motivators

Key Schemes

Nikshay: Direct cash for nutrition during treatment period
BPaLM: Bedaquiline-Pretomanid-Linezolid-Moxifloxacin replaces 18-month injectables for DR-TB
PM TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: Community sponsorship of patient nutrition kits

Challenges

Dependency: Majority rely on private sector, raising out-of-pocket expenditure
Intersectionality: Gender, caste, disability create diagnostic and adherence gaps
Stigma: Myths deter timely testing and successful completion

Way Forward

Person-centred: Tamil Nadu TN-KET model prioritises vulnerable, door-step drug delivery
Integration: Combine TB, COPD, diabetes screening using AI-based X-ray tools
Support: Expand wage-loss compensation and livelihood programmes for affected families

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
TB incidence 2015	237 per lakh population
TB incidence 2023	195 per lakh population
Incidence decline 2015-23	17.7 %
India elimination target year	2025
Global EndTB target year	2030
Nikshay Poshan Yojana benefit	₹1,000 per patient per month
BPaLM regimen duration	6 months
Patients choosing private care	> 50 %
WHO annual review	Global Tuberculosis Report