Saturday, 5 April 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following statements with regard to the World Immigration Report, 2020 prepared by the United Nations is NOT correct?

The correct answer is (d) China was the top remittance recipient country. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2021.

Q: According to the Reserve Bank of India’s report, which two countries together accounted for over one-third of the total FDI in India?

The correct answer is (a) United States and Singapore. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: Under which one of the following initiatives does the NITI Aayog support interested States to establish a State Institution for Transformation (SIT)?

The correct answer is (a) NITI for States Platform. This question appeared in ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: Which institution released the report titled “India’s Blue Economy: Strategy for Harnessing Deep-Sea and Offshore Fisheries”?

The correct answer is (a) Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). This question appeared in ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2026.

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (a) केवल I और II. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2025.

Q: Consider the following statements about the initial development of railways in India by the British :

The correct answer is (c) 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2024.

Q: In order to comply with TRIPS Agreement, India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999. The difference/differences between a “Trade Mark” and a Geographical Indication is/are

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in GS1 2010.

Q: Consider the following countries:

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2 and 3. This question appeared in GS1 2014.

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: Which one of the following is not a Biosphere Reserve?

The correct answer is (a) Agasthyamalai. This question appeared in GS1 2005.

16 topicsGS-1: 4GS-2: 3GS-3: 9

0/16 done

GS-3Economy

1.RBI Remittances Survey 2025 Findings (Remittances Trend)

Indian ExpressAdvanced economies · Gulf decline · USA share

What & Where

Remittances = cross-border personal transfers that overseas Indians send to domestic beneficiaries.

RBI Remittances Survey 2023-24: first time Advanced Economies (AEs) contribute majority of inflows to India.

Core corridors now: USA, UK, Singapore, Canada, Australia; Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) share shrinking.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Geographical Shift

AE share surpassed GCC for first time; Singapore, Canada, Australia join top-five sources.
USA remits more than Saudi Arabia + Kuwait combined.
GCC contraction mirrors oil cycles and localisation drives.

Causes of Shift

Policy: Saudisation, Emiratisation cut low-skill Indian jobs in Gulf.
Economics: AE STEM wages 3–5× Gulf; stronger USD/GBP boosts rupee value.
Education: UK Graduate Visa, Canada PGWP funnel students into high-paying AE labour markets.

Policy & Economic Impact

Stability: USD 118.7 bn inflow cushions CAD, lifts forex reserves.
Regional: Kerala faces slowdown; Telangana, Karnataka gain via tech-driven US flows.
Digitisation: UPI-PayNow & Project Nexus aim remittance fee <3% (UN SDG 10.c).

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Total remittances (FY 24)	USD 118.7 billion
AE contribution	54% (≈)
GCC contribution	37.9%
USA share	27.7%
UK share	10.8%
UAE share (FY 17 → 24)	26.9% → 19.2%
GCC share (FY 17 → 24)	46.7% → 37.9%
Skilled Indian migrants in US	78% of total
Indian students abroad	13.4 lakh
Remittances finance	42% of India’s trade deficit
UPI-PayNow transfer cost	≈1%

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements with regard to the World Immigration Report, 2020 prepared by the United Nations is NOT correct?

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 2

According to the Reserve Bank of India’s report, which two countries together accounted for over one-third of the total FDI in India?

GS-3Economy

2.NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum Portal (State Data Portal)

Economic TimesData repository · Fiscal indicators · Dashboards

What & Where

Digital portal housing 30-year socio-economic dataset of Indian states, named NITI NCAER States Economic Forum

Jointly developed by NITI Aayog and National Council of Applied Economic Research, launched by Union Finance Minister in 2025

Covers 28 states; five verticals—Demography, Economic Structure, Fiscal Indicators, Health, Education

Quick Facts for MCQs

Data Architecture

State Reports summarise macro-fiscal profile, socio-economic indicators
Dashboard offers interactive graphs, raw data download, summary tables
Repository stores time-series data sorted by five thematic verticals

Policy Utility

Benchmarking tool enables cross-state comparisons against national mean
Historical trends support evidence-based planning and fiscal reforms
Centralised hub simplifies data access for researchers and administrators

Comparative Edge

User-friendly interface reduces fragmentation of state-level statistics
Integrates fiscal analytics with demographic and social metrics for holistic view
Complements existing Union-level databases, filling sub-national information gap

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year	2025
Developers	NITI Aayog + NCAER
Data span	1990-91 to 2022-23
States covered	28
Key verticals	Demography, Economic Structure, Fiscal, Health, Education
Core components	State Reports; Data Repository; Dashboard; Research & Commentary

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

Under which one of the following initiatives does the NITI Aayog support interested States to establish a State Institution for Transformation (SIT)?

ESE_GS, NDA_GAT 2026PYQ 2

Which institution released the report titled “India’s Blue Economy: Strategy for Harnessing Deep-Sea and Offshore Fisheries”?

GS-3Infrastructure

3.Indian Railways Reform Challenges (Railway Reforms)

The HinduCAG audit · KAVACH · Vande Bharat

What & Where

Indian Railways (IR): government-owned, 4th-largest network; 65 000 km routed across all states.

Handles yearly 8 bn passengers plus 1.4 bn t freight; targets 40 % share in global rail activity by 2050.

Flagship corridors: Eastern DFC operational, Western DFC nearing finish; Mumbai–Ahmedabad HSR delayed to 2028.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Financial & Resource Mobilization

Operating-ratio near 100 % limits surplus; dependence rising on budget support and Extra-Budgetary Resources.
CAG flags need for diversified freight and private investment to ease fiscal strain.
Committees urge non-core outsourcing and a neutral infrastructure finance body.

Infrastructure & Speed

Mission Raftaar aims +25 km h passenger and 2× freight speed yet averages stagnant near 50 km h.
Only Eastern DFC live; East-Coast, East-West, North-South still at planning stage.
160–200 km h semi-high-speed upgrade proposed for key intercity pairs.

Safety & Technology

KAVACH collision-avoidance covers 2 % network; planned rollout 37 000 km.
Kakodkar panel wants statutory Safety Authority and non-lapsable RRSK fund.
15 000 km automatic signalling plus predictive maintenance, GPS analytics prioritized.

Environmental Commitments

Full electrification and 35 hydrogen trains underpin 2030 net-zero pledge.
Green bio-toilets and energy-efficient locos lower emissions, support SDG-13.
DFC freight shift expected to cut logistics carbon intensity.

Employment & Inclusion

1.2 m workforce ranks 9th worldwide, major rural livelihood source.
Rail connectivity spurs regional access to education, health, markets; lifeline status reaffirmed.
Strategic links in Northeast bolster mobility and national security.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Route length	65 000 km
Passengers 2022	8 billion
Freight moved 2022	1.4 billion tonnes
Employees	1.2 million
Traffic revenue 2023-24	USD 32.18 bn
Operating Ratio 2024-25 (est.)	98.2
Capex plan till 2030	USD 750 bn
Allowed FDI	100 %
KAVACH installed Feb 2024	1 465 route km (2 %)
Automatic signalling target	15 000 km
Planned hydrogen trains	35
Net-zero carbon goal	2030
Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh ask	₹1 lakh crore/5 yrs
Average mail-express speed	50–51 km h
Bullet train deadline shift	2023 ➔ 2028

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 2

Consider the following statements about the initial development of railways in India by the British :

GS-1History

4.Traditional Meenakari Enamel Craft (Enamel Art)

DD NewsSafavid origin · Mughal era · Jaipur hub

Illustration for Traditional Meenakari Enamel Craft (Enamel Art)

What & Where

Craft: Enamelling metal/ceramic by fusing coloured powdered glass at high heat, yielding glossy, intricate designs.

Core geography: Perfected in India under Mughals; today centred in Jaipur, with pockets in Gujarat & Lucknow.

Outputs: Jewellery, vases, figurines, crockery, décor, furniture using gold, silver, copper or brass bases.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Roots

Safavid genesis; technique migrated via Persian craftsmen to Mughal courts.
Term reflects aim of “placing paradise on an object.”
Post-Mughal, Gujarati & Rajasthani jewellers sustained and evolved craft.

Regional Styles

Jaipur style: Mughal motifs with tri-colour palette, high gold usage.
Gujarat: Local patterns, more silver & copper incorporation.
Lucknow: Softer hues, Indo-Persian floral emphasis.

Material & Motifs

Precious-metal base ensures durability and lustre.
Powdered-glass enamels create vibrant geometric, floral, animal imagery.
Modern utility pieces blend traditional patterns with contemporary forms.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Literal meaning	Meena = heaven; Kari = to do
Civilisation of origin	Safavid Iran
Brought to India	Mughal era
20th-c. refinement aid	Iranian artisans
Premier Indian hub	Jaipur, Rajasthan
Typical Jaipur palette	Red, green, white
Other practising regions	Gujarat, Lucknow
Main metals	Gold, silver; also copper, brass
Common motifs	Geometric, floral, animal
Surface finish	Glassy, vibrant contrast

GS-1Misc

5.New GI Tags: Tomato Chilli, Kannadippaya (GI Tags)

The HinduWarangal Chapata · Kannadippaya · Geographical Indication

Illustration for New GI Tags: Tomato Chilli, Kannadippaya (GI Tags)

What & Where

Geographical Indication (GI) identifies goods whose quality or reputation is essentially linked to a specific place; registered under DPIIT, valid 10 yrs

New entries 2025 — Warangal Chapata Chilli (Telangana) & Kannadippaya mirror-mat (Kerala tribal craft)

India’s GI list now crosses 600 items spanning agriculture, handicraft, manufactured goods

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Protection ensured via Geographical Indications of Goods Act 1999 aligned to TRIPS
Only authorised territorial users may market product under GI name
Registration lapse after 10 yrs unless renewed, maintaining exclusivity

Product Features

Warangal chilli bright-red, tomato-shaped, anti-obesogenic antioxidant properties
Kannadippaya offers winter warmth, summer cooling, intricate mirror-like pattern
Chilli prized more for colour and flavour extract than pungency

Regional Economy

Chilli cultivated 80 + yrs in Nagaram, Nadikuda villages; micro-climate non-replicable elsewhere
Kannadippaya woven by Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Kadar, Ulladan, Malayarayan, Hill Pulaya tribes across Idukki-Thrissur-Ernakulam-Palakkad
Mat historically presented to local kings symbolising tribal honour

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Supervising ministry	DPIIT, Commerce & Industry
Indian GI Act	1999
Global treaty base	WTO-TRIPS
Registration validity	10 years, renewable
Total Indian GIs	600 + (2025)
Telangana GI count	18
Warangal chilli category	3rd agricultural GI of state
Chilli fruit types	Single Patti, Double Patti, Odalu
Colour compound	Capsicum oleoresin
Soil requirement	Red & black soils, Jammikunta-Nadikuda belt
Kannadippaya status	1st tribal handicraft GI of Kerala
Raw material	Inner reed bamboo (Teinostachyum wightii)
Mat meaning	Mirror mat (reflective weave)
Warangal chilli heat	Low-spice, high red pigment

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2010PYQ 1

In order to comply with TRIPS Agreement, India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999. The difference/differences between a “Trade Mark” and a Geographical Indication is/are

GS-1MappingQuick Bite

6.Greenland Sovereignty Affirmed by Denmark (Arctic Geography)

The HinduGreenland · Pituffik Base · Rare earths

Illustration for Greenland Sovereignty Affirmed by Denmark (Arctic Geography)

What & Where

Greenland – world’s largest island in the North Atlantic, midway between North America and Europe

Autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, governed by Inatsisartut (Parliament) under Self-Government Act

Arctic landmass >80 % ice-covered; hosts Pituffik Space Base critical for US missile-defence over polar route

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Pituffik Space Base provides early-warning radar and missile-defence along shortest Europe-North America arc
US interest in possible annexation rejected by Denmark as unacceptable despite security arguments
Strategic air-sea routes over Arctic make island pivotal for NATO surveillance

Economic Angle

Rare-earth mineral deposits heighten US and global commercial attention
Potential mining could diversify Greenlandic revenues beyond fishing and subsidies
Ice retreat gradually improving access to mineral belts and shipping corridors

Physical Geography

Ice sheet up to 4 km thick shapes fjords, glaciers, limited coastal habitable zone
Mountainous east hosts Watkins Range, highest Arctic peaks outside Antarctica
Harsh Arctic climate entails long, dark winters and brief, cool summers

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Island rank	1st largest globally
Oceanic location	North Atlantic, Arctic Circle
Nearest continents	North America, Europe
Ice cover	>80 %; thickness up to 4 km
Winter temperature	Can fall to −50 °C
Summer temperature	Usually 10 – 15 °C
Polar daylight	~2 months continuous sun
Main ranges	Watkins Range, Stauning Alps
Major rivers	Borglum, Majorqaq
Political status	Autonomous; Kingdom of Denmark
Legislature	Inatsisartut (31 seats)
Key US facility	Pituffik Space Base
Resource lure	Rare-earth minerals, other metals

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2014PYQ 1

Consider the following countries:

GS-3Environment

7.Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve Survey (Biosphere Reserve)

The HinduUNESCO · Western Ghats · Kerala

Illustration for Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve Survey (Biosphere Reserve)

What & Where

UNESCO tropical forest biosphere, part of World Network since 2016

Southernmost Western Ghats; spans Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam) & Tamil Nadu (Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari)

Approx. 3,500 km² covering multiple sanctuaries and two tiger reserves

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biodiversity

High endemism across flora, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians
Rare medicinal herbs support traditional Ayurveda practices
Habitat for apex fauna: tiger, Asian elephant

Protected Areas

Buffer includes Neyyar, Peppara, Shendurney WLS; Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel WLS
Core zones overlap with Kalakkad–Mundanthurai & Periyar Tiger Reserves
Multi-state management under Biosphere Reserve framework

Indigenous & Cultural

Kani tribe relies on sustainable NTFP harvesting; shares ethno-botanical knowledge
Mythological link to Sage Agastya from Ramayana; site revered in local temples
Traditional medicine draws on forest’s endemic plant diversity

Legal & Policy

Supreme Court directed Central Empowered Committee to survey encroachments, non-forestry activity
Mandate aims to strengthen Forest Conservation Act compliance within reserve
Findings expected to guide eviction, restoration measures

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
UNESCO tag year	March 2016
Total area	~3,500 km²
Plant species	2,254
Endemic plants	405
Mammal species	79 (20 endemic)
Bird species	337 (20 endemic)
Reptile species	88
Amphibian species	45
Key tribes	Kani (~30,000)
Major tiger reserves	Periyar; Kalakkad–Mundanthurai
Iconic endemic	Grizzled giant squirrel
States involved	Kerala, Tamil Nadu

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

Which of the following are in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve?

GS1 2005PYQ 2

Which one of the following is not a Biosphere Reserve?

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

8.Euphaea wayanadensis Damselfly Discovery (New Damselfly)

The HinduWestern Ghats · New species · Fast-flowing streams

What & Where

Euphaea wayanadensis — new damselfly found in Wayanad district, Kerala, central Western Ghats.

191st odonate for Kerala; 223rd for Western Ghats bioregion.

Inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams amid evergreen & semi-evergreen forests.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Taxonomic Features

Wing-patch length and thoracic stripes key separation tools.
Distinct within genus Euphaea endemic to peninsular India.

Habitat & Ecology

Requires shaded, oxygen-rich hill streams for mating and larval growth.
Absence during peak dry months matches reduced stream flow.

Conservation Angle

Micro-endemicity raises extinction risk from deforestation, water diversion.
New record underpins need for stream-corridor protection in Western Ghats.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scientific name	Euphaea wayanadensis
Taxonomic order	Odonata (damselfly)
Kerala record No.	191st odonate species
Western Ghats tally	223rd odonate species
Male wing marker	Longer black patch on hind wings
Thorax ID	Broad, uninterrupted humeral & antehumeral stripes
Core habitat	Rocky, swift streams with aquatic vegetation
Seasonal presence	Year-round except March–April dry spell
Geographic spread	Highly restricted to Wayanad
Conservation cue	Urgent protection due to limited range

GS-3S&T

9.UNCTAD Technology and Innovation Report 2025 (UNCTAD Report)

The HinduFrontier technologies · AI investment · Readiness Index

What & Where

UNCTAD Technology and Innovation Report 2025 gauges national readiness for adopting frontier tech—AI, robotics, IoT, biotech

Framework uses Frontier Technologies Readiness Index and tracks private R&D, VC inflows, patent output across 170 economies

India appears 10th in global AI investment and 36th in readiness; China the only comparable developing counterpart

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Private AI investment: India received $1.4 bn in 2023, only developing peer with billion-plus is China
Global top-10 entry demonstrates rising investor appetite for Indian AI ecosystem
Capital inflow expected to accelerate domestic job creation and export-oriented AI solutions

Tech Indicators

Metrics cover ICT access, skills, R&D activity, industrial capacity, finance accessibility
R&D rank 3 and industrial capacity rank 10 highlight strong innovation-production linkage
Skills rank 113 and ICT access 99 identify key policy gaps for digital inclusion

International Comparison

Rank jump: India 48→36 among 170 between 2022 and 2024 editions
AI scientific output leaders list includes India, US, China, UK, Germany
Nanotechnology patent specialisation places India alongside outperforming Brazil and Philippines

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Report name	Technology and Innovation Report 2025
Publisher	UNCTAD
Economies assessed	170
India readiness rank 2024	36
India readiness rank 2022	48
India AI-investment rank 2023	10
AI funding to India 2023	USD 1.4 billion
Developing nations with >USD 1 bn AI funding	India, China
R&D activity rank (India)	3
Industrial capacity rank	10
ICT access rank	99
Skills development rank	113
Access to finance rank	70

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

ग्रैण्ड पैलै (Grand Palais) पेरिस में नवम्बर 2025 में आयोजित होने वाले AI शिखर सम्मेलन के सन्दर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 2

भारत में नवाचार तथा अनुसंधान और विकास के बारे में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-3S&T

10.Indigenous HANSA-3 NG Trainer Aircraft (Trainer Aircraft)

NDTVCSIR-NAL · Technology transfer · Glass cockpit

Illustration for Indigenous HANSA-3 NG Trainer Aircraft (Trainer Aircraft)

What & Where

Aircraft: HANSA-3 (NG), indigenous two-seat ab-initio trainer by CSIR-NAL, Bengaluru

Agreement: First tech-transfer inked with Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt Ltd for series production in India

Geography: Design, certification and upcoming manufacture centred in Bengaluru, Karnataka aviation ecosystem

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Innovation

Glass-cockpit: digital flight display improving situational awareness for trainees
Bubble-canopy: panoramic visibility, reduced drag, enhanced comfort
Electric-flaps, FADEC engine and composite frame lower weight, raise fuel efficiency

Economic Angle

Cost-saving: ₹2 crore tag halves expenditure versus imported trainers
Make-in-India: private production spurs domestic supply chain, reduces foreign dependence
Pilot-demand: scalable manufacturing meets rising civil-aviation need for trained pilots

Institutional Framework

CSIR: parent body of NAL under Ministry of Science & Technology, founded 1959
First-ever: agreement marks NAL’s initial technology transfer to private industry
Objective: NAL pursues indigenous aircraft design, testing and commercialisation partnerships

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Developer	CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories
Tech-transfer partner	Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt. Ltd.
Seating	Two, tandem
Engine	Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport, FADEC
Cockpit	Advanced glass cockpit
Airframe	Composite, lightweight
Unit cost	~₹2 crore
Import saving	≈50 % cheaper than foreign trainers
Training use	PPL & CPL licence courses
Green push	E-HANSA electric variant planned

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

What is 'Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)', recently in the news?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

11.Audible Enclaves & PAL Directional Audio (Directional Audio)

The HinduParametric loudspeaker · Ultrasonic waves · Sound beam

What & Where

Technology: Audible Enclaves (AE) and Parametric Array Loudspeakers (PAL) create narrow, listener-specific sound beams

Principle: Two or more ultrasonic carriers self-demodulate in air, generating audible pockets while limiting lateral dispersion

Deployment: Indoor public spaces like museums, retail outlets, security desks, immersive exhibits

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physics Basics

Diffraction spreads ordinary sound; higher frequency raises dispersion difficulty
Nonlinear air interaction converts ultrasonic energy to audible band at focal point
Absence of phase-coherent carriers outside beam keeps surrounding zone quiet

Technology & Mechanism

Audible Enclave: Two inaudible carriers intersect creating constructive audible node
PAL: Modulated ultrasonic column self-demodulates along beam path forming audible wavefront
Both rely on tight beamwidth to restrict sound to few degrees arc

Applications

Museums: Exhibit-specific narration without headphone requirement
Retail: Product-focused ads without storewide noise load
Assistive tech: Personal guidance for visually impaired in transit hubs

Security Dimension

Privacy: Conversations or alerts audible only to intended individual
Crowd control: Targeted directives reduce panic and ambient chaos

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Wave type	Longitudinal compression–rarefaction
Usual carrier band	Ultrasonic > 20 kHz
Key phenomenon	Nonlinear self-demodulation in air
AE carrier count	Typically two high-frequency waves
PAL modulation	Audio signal amplitude-modulates single ultrasonic beam
Dispersion trend	Increases with frequency
Core advantage	Listener-specific privacy without ambient disturbance
Typical use cases	Museums, retail, targeted PA, assistive audio, security

GS-2Editorial

12.Global South Mediation in Ukraine (Ukraine Conflict)

The HinduNeutrality · UN peacekeeping · BRICS

What & Where

Global South – Africa, Asia, Latin America developing bloc demanding equitable global order.

Proposed Ukraine solution – UN-mandated, non-NATO peacekeeping led by Global South states.

Core geography – Ukraine war theatre; mediator candidates India, Indonesia, South Africa.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Global South Strengths

Neutrality; India balances Russian energy imports with Ukrainian humanitarian aid.
Peacekeeping depth; 60 % UN troops, incl. India’s 2007 all-women Liberian unit.
Economic leverage; BRICS Bank can fund post-war recovery efforts.

NATO Limitations

Perceived bias; Moscow brands NATO peacekeepers “Trojan horses”.
Escalation risk; forces near Russian borders could trigger wider conflict.
Domestic constraint; EU opinion (70 % French) resists deployments, US stance uncertain.

Global Spillovers

Food security; war disrupts grain feeding 400 million, spikes prices.
Energy stability; EU gas interruptions propagate global cost surges.
Humanitarian-nuclear threat; 8 million refugees, shelling near Zaporizhzhia amplifies Chernobyl-scale fears.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global South share of world population	≈ 75 %
Global South share of world GDP (PPP)	≈ 40 %
UN peacekeepers sourced from Global South	≈ 60 %
Indian troops in UN missions	2,90,000 across 50+ deployments
Western military aid to Ukraine	> US $175 billion
French public opposing troop deployment (2024)	≈ 70 %
Ukrainians displaced abroad	> 8 million
Ukrainian grain beneficiaries	≈ 400 million people

GS-2Polity

13.6th BIMSTEC Summit Bangkok Vision (BIMSTEC Summit)

PIBBangkok Vision 2030 · Centres of Excellence · UPI linkage

Illustration for 6th BIMSTEC Summit Bangkok Vision (BIMSTEC Summit)

What & Where

BIMSTEC: 7-nation Bay of Bengal grouping (BD, BT, IN, MM, NP, LK, TH); est. 1997 via Bangkok Declaration.

Core geography: Littoral & land-linked states between South Asia and Southeast Asia, bridging Indian Ocean & Indo-Pacific routes.

6th Summit: Bangkok/virtual, Apr 2025; theme “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open”; adopted Bangkok Vision 2030 roadmap.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Summit Outcomes

Vision 2030 targets economic integration, resilience, digital & physical connectivity.
Summit Declaration reiterates rules-based order, maritime security, sustainable growth.
Annual BIMSTEC Business Summit & Chamber of Commerce okayed for trade push.

India-Led Initiatives

Centres of Excellence, BODHI skill program, cancer-care capacity building announced.
Pilot on Digital Public Infrastructure; UPI payment linkage proposal.
Sports & culture: Athletics Meet 2025, Music Festival, Young Leaders’ Summit, Hackathon.

India-Thailand Partnership

Maritime synergy via AOIP-IPOI, IMT Trilateral Highway acceleration.
Defence: expand Exercise Maitree, counter-terror, cyber, intel sharing.
Explore FTA up-gradation; deepen Buddhist tourism, diaspora engagement.

Strategic Significance

Provides SAARC alternative, consonant with India’s Act East & Indo-Pacific outlook.
Platform to balance China’s BRI influence in Bay of Bengal corridor.
Enhances HADR, security cooperation across South & Southeast Asian rim.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Members	Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand
Combined population	≈1.7 billion (22 % world)
Combined GDP (2023)	≈ USD 5.2 trillion
Secretariat	Dhaka, Bangladesh
6th-Summit host	Thailand (chair)
Summit theme	“BIMSTEC: Prosperous, Resilient, and Open”
Key document adopted	Bangkok Vision 2030
India’s action plan	21-point, incl. people-to-people, commerce, tech
New Indian Centres	Disaster Mgmt, Maritime Transport, Traditional Medicine, Agri R&T
Energy centre location	Bengaluru, India
Flagship skill scheme	BODHI (HR infrastructure)
First BIMSTEC Games	2027 (30th anniversary)
UPI linkage	Proposed BIMSTEC-wide digital payments integration
India-Thailand status	Upgraded to “Strategic Partnership”

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

BIMSTEC के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2022PYQ 2

Which of the following sets of nations are members of the BIMSTEC Initiative?

GS-3Security

14.Ottawa Convention on Landmines (Mine Ban Treaty)

Indian ExpressAnti-personnel mines · 1997 treaty · Landmine prohibition

What & Where

Ottawa Convention / Mine Ban Treaty: global pact to eradicate anti-personnel landmines.

Adopted Ottawa, Canada (Dec 1997); in force worldwide since 1 Mar 1999.

164 States Parties; major absentees: India, US, Russia, China, Israel.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Eastern flank states view landmines as deterrent against potential Russian aggression.
Withdrawal announcements follow heightened regional insecurity post-Ukraine war.
Norway opts treaty adherence despite sharing Arctic border with Russia.

Membership Dynamics

Five announced exits could shrink membership to 159, first mass departure since 1999.
All quitters are recent NATO entrants or frontline EU members.
India, US, Russia, China, Israel remain outside, citing security or strategic needs.

Humanitarian Aim

Treaty targets reduced post-war civilian casualties and amputations.
Seeks rehabilitation of mine victims via mandated assistance programs.
Encourages conversion of cleared land back to agriculture and habitation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Official name	Mine Ban Treaty
Popular name	Ottawa Convention
Core ban	Use, stockpile, produce, transfer A-P mines
Humanitarian clauses	Victim aid, mine clearance, int’l cooperation
In-force date	1 March 1999
Present members (2024)	164 countries
Announced quitters	Poland, Finland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia
Planned exit year	2025
EU/NATO state still committed	Norway
India’s stance reason	Porous borders, insurgencies

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 1998PYQ 1

The recent Land Mines Conference to sign the historic treaty was held in the Capital city of

GS1 1995PYQ 2

84. The signatories to the treaty banning chemical weapons include

GS-2Scheme

15.Vibrant Villages Programme II (Border Development)

PIBCentral Sector · MHA · Border villages

Illustration for Vibrant Villages Programme II (Border Development)

What & Where

Vibrant Villages Programme-II: 100 % Centre-funded scheme for comprehensive development of strategic villages along non-Northern international land borders.

Period 2024-25 to 2028-29; targets quality-of-life, livelihoods, security integration in 17 border States/UTs.

Complements VVP-I (Feb 2023) which already covers Northern border villages.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Surveillance: locals engaged as eyes & ears for border forces to deter infiltration, smuggling.
Crime control: scheme aims curbing trans-border crimes, enhancing border integrity.

Livelihood & Development

Income: promotion of rural tourism, cooperative models, handicraft markets for resident earnings.
Infrastructure: SMART classrooms, cluster projects planned for education, social facilities.

Governance Mechanism

VAPs: bottom-up planning ensures tailored interventions per village.
High-level committee eases inter-ministerial clearances for timely execution.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scheme type	Central Sector (100 % Central funding)
Financial outlay	₹ 6,839 crore
Duration	FY 2024-25 to FY 2028-29
Nodal ministry	Ministry of Home Affairs
Geographic spread	17 States/UTs; ILBs excluding Northern sector
Key service focus	Roads, telecom, TV access, electrification
Planning tool	Village Action Plans with community participation
Oversight	Cabinet Secretary-led committee for rule relaxation
Livelihood push	Cooperatives, SHGs, tourism, handicrafts
Vision alignment	Viksit Bharat@2047; Safe, Secure & Vibrant Borders

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024PYQ 1

Which one among the following statements about the objectives of Vibrant Village Programme is correct?

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

Which of the following statements about ‘Vibrant Village Programme’ of the Government of India is/are correct?

GS-1Editorial

16.Marginalised Groups Education Gap (Education Inequality)

The HinduSC/ST access · Dropout rates · Infrastructure deficit

Illustration for Marginalised Groups Education Gap (Education Inequality)

What & Where

Exclusion: Structural, social, economic barriers limiting SC/ST/OBC access from primary schooling to doctorates.

Geography: Rural schools, urban slums, elite institutes (IITs, IISc, central universities) show widest gaps.

Mechanisms: Biased merit tests, poor infrastructure, caste prejudice, financial hardship drive high drop-outs.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Structural Inequality

Infrastructure: Only 12 % rural schools own libraries; digital access, trained teachers scarce.
Merit bias: English-medium, coaching culture tilts JEE/NEET toward urban affluent learners.
Dropout: Livelihood pressures spike exits after Class 10, especially among Dalit, tribal youths.

Social Discrimination

Campus bias: Hostel segregation, microaggressions; Rohith Vemula suicide spotlighted casteism.
Faculty gap: Seven IITs have zero ST faculty; 90 % posts held by upper castes.
Mental health: Isolation, harassment escalate suicide and dropout risks for marginalised cohorts.

Government Schemes

SHREYAS: Scholarships plus competitive-exam coaching for OBC, EBC, DNT students.
National Fellowships: Stipends for SC/ST/OBC MPhil & PhD enrolments.
Ambedkar Subsidy: Interest waiver on overseas education loans for OBC/EBC applicants.

Consequences

Poverty loop: Education denial sustains caste-bound manual scavenging (>80 % Dalits).
Economic drag: Inequality costs India US $56 bn GDP annually.
Unrest: JNU fee-hike agitation exemplifies rising equity demands.

Proposed Reforms

Merit redefinition: Socio-economic context weighting in high-stakes exams.
Reservation expansion: Include faculty hiring and private institutes.
Anti-bias cells: Mandatory grievance units with strict penalties for caste harassment.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Rural schools with libraries	12 % (ASER 2023)
IIT toppers from coaching hubs	90 %
SC/ST share in PhD seats (top tech institutes)	< 10 %
IITs reporting zero ST faculty (2018)	7
Dalit girls dropout by Class 10	32 %
Manual scavengers who are Dalits	> 80 %
Annual GDP loss from education inequality	US $56 billion
Mid-Day Meal core beneficiaries	SC, ST & poor children

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 1

भारत सरकार द्वारा हाल ही में आरम्भ की गई ‘SHRESHTA’ योजना के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2023PYQ 2

राष्ट्रीय बह-आयामी गरीबी सूचकांक (MPI) में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा संकेतक सम्मिलित है?

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