Monday, 5 May 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements :

The correct answer is (b) 2 only. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

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

Q: BHARATPOL portal has been developed by

The correct answer is (a) The Election Commission of India. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: Which one of the following is not correct in respect of Directorate of Enforcement?

The correct answer is (a) It is a specialized financial investigation agency under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2021.

Q: Which one of the following statements is correct with reference to FEMA in India?

The correct answer is (a) The Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA), was replaced by Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) in the year 2001. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2003.

Q: Population of the year 2011 was first introduced in the tax devolution formula for sharing Union tax revenue with the States by

The correct answer is (a) Thirteenth Finance Commission. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2024.

Q: Which one of the following authorities recommends the principles governing grants-in-aid of the revenues to the states out of the Consolidated Fund of India?

The correct answer is (a) Finance Commission. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2002.

Q: सूक्ष्म, लघु और मध्यम उद्योगों (MSMEs) के बारे में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

The correct answer is (c) 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2022.

Q: Consider the following statements with reference to India:

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

Q: Which one of the following was composed by Harishena?

The correct answer is (a) Nashik Inscription of Gautami Balashri. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022.

15 topicsGS-1: 3GS-2: 4GS-3: 8

0/15 done

GS-2Editorial

1.Reviving Private Members’ Bills (Parliamentary Procedure)

The HinduPMBs · Friday debates · one-month notice

Illustration for Reviving Private Members’ Bills (Parliamentary Procedure)

What & Where

Definition Private Member’s Bill proposed by non-minister MP outside government

Procedure Notice 1 month → introduction → Friday debate slot → vote or withdrawal

Venue Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha under Rules of Procedure, Parliament of India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Data

Passage Only 14 PMBs became Acts; none passed both Houses after 1970
Volume 17th LS witnessed 1,434 PMB introductions across two Houses
Debate Rajya Sabha historically devotes more hours than Lok Sabha

Legislative Value

Innovation Right to Disconnect Bill 2019 ignited national debate on work-life balance
SocialJustice 2014 Transgender Bill catalysed 2019 Protection of Rights Act
Governance Early PMB shaped Waqf Act 1954 now updated 2025

Operational Challenges

Time Friday slot often lost to adjournments or early constituency departures
Discipline Anti-Defection law restrains MPs deviating from party whip
Scrutiny Lack of dedicated committee hampers vetting and prioritisation

Reform Ideas

Reservation Amend rules to protect Friday PMB hours except national emergency
Committee Establish PMB Review body with fast-track lane for high-impact bills
Benchmark Adopt UK Ten-Minute Rule; extend sitting by 1–2 hours to balance agendas

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First PMB passed	Muslim Wakfs Bill 1952
Total Acts via PMB	14 since 1950
Last PMB cleared both Houses	1970
17th LS PMBs introduced (LS/RS)	729 / 705
17th LS PMBs discussed (LS/RS)	2 / 14
18th LS introduced till May 2025 (LS/RS)	64 / 82
18th LS discussed till May 2025 (LS/RS)	0 / 1
Time on PMBs 17th LS (hrs)	Lok Sabha 9.08; Rajya Sabha 27.01
Reserved slot	Friday post-lunch
Anti-Defection amendment year	1985 (52nd CAA)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements :

GS1 2017PYQ 2

भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Polity

2.ECINET Unified Digital Election Platform (Election Commission)

Indian ExpressECINET · Election Commission of India · single sign-on

What & Where

ECINET – unified digital interface by Election Commission of India integrating 40 + electoral apps.

Purpose – single-window access to election services for voters, officials, parties, civil society.

Geography – pan-India coverage, targeting nearly 100 crore electors.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Integration – merges disparate applications into one clean, aesthetic interface.
Accessibility – cross-device design ensures seamless voter and official usage.
Real-time – dashboard delivers instant, verified electoral information.

Security Dimension

Cybersecurity – subjected to robust vulnerability and performance audits.
Data-integrity – statutory forms override platform entries on discrepancy.
Authorisation – restricted data input prevents unauthorised manipulation.

Administrative Reform

Simplification – replaces multiple logins with one portal, cutting procedural clutter.
Infrastructure – digital unification strengthens nationwide electoral management backbone.
Stakeholders – caters simultaneously to voters, officials, political parties, CSOs.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Nodal body	Election Commission of India
Total apps merged	40 + mobile & web applications
Sample integrated apps	Voter Helpline, cVIGIL, Suvidha 2.0, ESMS, Saksham, KYC
Login system	Single Sign-On for all services
Device support	Desktop and smartphone compatibility
Data entry rights	Only authorised EC officials
Cyber measure	Rigorous safety, performance, usability tests
Core objectives	Simplify access, eliminate redundancy, real-time verified data

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

BHARATPOL portal has been developed by

GS-2Polity

3.Enforcement Directorate 69th Foundation Day (Enforcement Directorate)

PIBFERA 1947 · PMLA 2002 · FEOA 2018

What & Where

Enforcement Directorate; federal agency combating foreign-exchange violations, money laundering, fugitive offenders

Processes: investigations, provisional attachment, prosecution under PMLA 2002, FEOA 2018; civil adjudication under FEMA 1999

Geography: HQ New Delhi; zonal offices pan-India under Union Ministry of Finance, Dept of Revenue

Quick Facts for MCQs

Organisational Setup

Hierarchy: Director, Special/Joint Directors, Deputy Directors across zones
Cadre: partly drawn from IRS, IPS, Customs, promoted Group-B officers

Statutory Mandate

Objective: deter money laundering, terror finance, organised crime undermining economic security
Powers: search, seize, arrest, attach, confiscate, file complaints in PMLA special courts

Recent Achievements

Attachment growth indicates intensified recovery focus towards Viksit Bharat 2047 goal
Enhanced inter-agency coordination with FIU-India, CBI, NIA for financial intelligence

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Foundation year	1 May 1956 (as Enforcement Unit)
Renamed as ED	1957
Parent ministry	Finance; Dept of Revenue since 1960
Director’s rank	Not below Additional Secretary, GoI
Core criminal laws	PMLA 2002; FEOA 2018
Core civil law	FEMA 1999 (replacing FERA 1947)
FY 2024-25 provisional attachment	₹30,036 crore (44 % rise in cases; 141 % value jump)
Cumulative attachment value	₹15.46 lakh crore (till 2025)
New PMLA probes 2014-24	~5,000

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following is not correct in respect of Directorate of Enforcement?

CDS_GK, GS1 2003PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements is correct with reference to FEMA in India?

GS-3Economy

4.16th Finance Commission Challenges (Fiscal Devolution)

Indian ExpressArticle 280 · 41% devolution · cesses & surcharges

Illustration for 16th Finance Commission Challenges (Fiscal Devolution)

What & Where

Finance Commission: constitutional body (Art. 280) deciding tax devolution & grants between Centre-States.

16th FC: set up Dec 2023; remit FY 2026-31; chair—Arvind Panagariya.

Geography: applies to entire Union of India, incl. Panchayats & Municipalities via FC-recommended grants.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Fiscal Federalism

Shrinking-pool: cesses surge cuts shareable taxes, fuelling state demand for higher devolution.
Reform ask: cap cesses, prune CSS, boost untied transfers within fiscal limits.
Equity worry: low-income states (e.g., Bihar) risk lagging in per-capita service spend.

Revenue Pressures

Centre: grant funding via additional borrowing strains fiscal deficit.
States: rising revenue deficits in Karnataka, Punjab, others despite higher overall transfers.
Populism hazard: untied funds may bankroll free power, water, etc.

Spending Quality

Capital-vs-revenue: risk that larger untied money shifts to subsidies over infrastructure.
Accountability need: monitoring, outcome-based conditions proposed with untied hikes.
Quasi-universal cash schemes already expanding, could accelerate with more autonomy.

Local Devolution

Panchayats/ULBs: receive tiny slice of public spend, unlike global peers.
Incentive idea: performance grants for states linking extra FC funds to 3rd-tier empowerment.
Potential gain: closer-to-citizen service delivery, improved convergence across regions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
States’ formal share (15th FC)	41 % of divisible pool
Actual share 2021-22	≈32 % of Centre’s gross tax due to cesses/surcharges
Divisible-pool weight fall	88.6 % (2011-12) ➜ 78.9 % (2021-22)
Cesses/surcharges status	Not shareable with states
States’ demanded share	50 % of gross tax revenue
Union borrowing for grants FY23	~₹2 lakh crore
Income-support schemes	14 states; cost ≈0.6 % GDP
3rd-tier share in India	Far below China, South Africa benchmarks
16th FC tenure covered	FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31
UPSC link	Art. 280; Fiscal Federalism

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2024PYQ 1

Population of the year 2011 was first introduced in the tax devolution formula for sharing Union tax revenue with the States by

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2002PYQ 2

Which one of the following authorities recommends the principles governing grants-in-aid of the revenues to the states out of the Consolidated Fund of India?

GS-3Economy

5.NITI Aayog MSME Growth Roadmap (MSME Reforms)

PIB29.2% GDP · 45% exports · 120 million jobs

Illustration for NITI Aayog MSME Growth Roadmap (MSME Reforms)

What & Where

Definition: MSMEs are enterprises classified by investment in plant & machinery/equipment and annual turnover under MSMED Act 2006

Typology: Micro ≤ ₹1 cr & ≤ ₹5 cr; Small ≤ ₹10 cr & ≤ ₹50 cr; Medium ≤ ₹50 cr & ≤ ₹250 cr

Geography: ~6.34 crore units, largely clustered in rural and semi-urban India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Output: Sector drives textiles, handicrafts, PURA style rural industrialization, significant foreign-exchange earnings
Inclusivity: Provides 20 % women-owned businesses and large OAE presence enhancing livelihood security
Start-ups: Backbone of India’s third-largest global start-up ecosystem in fintech, e-commerce, deep-tech

Core Challenges

Informality: Compliance costs keep 90 % units unregistered, limiting scheme reach and value-chain integration
Credit gap: Only 19 % demand met; collateral issues push borrowing at 30–60 % informal rates
Technology lag: Just 6 % online sellers; outdated machinery, weak infrastructure curb productivity and diversification

Reform Proposals

Finance: Revamp CGTMSE, channel SIDBI funds to NBFCs, relax state subsidy eligibility thresholds
Skilling: Expand STEM, align ITIs with industry, subsidise targeted financial-literacy and operational courses
Tech push: Subsidised AI, Industry 4.0 adoption, upgrade CFCs to Institute for Collaboration hubs for R&D

Government Schemes

Credit: Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, Mutual Credit Guarantee, Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme
Digital & grievance: Udyam Registration, CHAMPIONS portal, GeM procurement access, MSME SAMADHAAN for delayed payments

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
GDP contribution	29.2 %
Manufacturing output share	36.2 %
Employment generated	120 million persons
Export share FY 22	45 % of total exports
Women-owned enterprises	20 % of Udyam registrations
Informal MSME share	90 % of total units
Formal credit met FY 21	19 % of demand
Units on Udyam portal	95 lakh vs 6.34 crore total
E-commerce adoption	6 % of MSMEs
AI adoption	45 % of surveyed units

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 1

सूक्ष्म, लघु और मध्यम उद्योगों (MSMEs) के बारे में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

CDS_GK, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following statements with reference to India:

GS-1History

6.Satavahana Dynasty Inscriptions in Telangana (Satavahana Dynasty)

The HinduPeddapalli · Brahmi script · Asmaka Mahajanapada

Illustration for Satavahana Dynasty Inscriptions in Telangana (Satavahana Dynasty)

What & Where

Satavahana inscriptions; Brahmi-Prakrit stone epigraphy dated 1 BCE–6 CE

Found at Peddapalli, Telangana; region part of ancient Asmaka Mahājanapada in eastern Deccan

Texts illuminate Satavahana rule, culture, trade across Krishna-Godavari valley to Malwa & Karnataka

Quick Facts for MCQs

Political History

Gautamiputra: crushed Kshaharata Shakas, re-struck Nahapana coins, restored varna order
Satavahana-Western Kshatrapa conflicts eased via marriage alliance by Vashishthiputra
Telangana inscriptions affirm Satavahana control over Asmaka territory

Economy & Trade

Roman and Satavahana coins dense in Krishna-Godavari, signalling Indo-Mediterranean exchange
Yajna Sri patronised navigation; ship motif marks maritime peak
Urban centres like Peddabankur featured brick houses, wells, covered drains

Religion & Art

Rulers Brahmanas yet major patrons of Buddhism; frequent land grants to viharas
Rock-cut marvels Karle Chaitya, Nasik Viharas, Ajanta Caves 9-10 under dynasty support
Amravati School of Art flourished; stupa panels narrate Buddha life

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Founder	Simuka (60–37 BCE)
Greatest ruler	Gautamiputra Satakarni (106–130 CE)
Capital shift	Paithan on Godavari by Pulumayi
Peak maritime king	Yajna Sri Satakarni; ship on coins
Core era	1 c BCE – early 3 c CE
Official language	Prakrit
Script of records	Brahmi
Principal coin metals	lead, potin, copper, bronze
Gold usage	Bullion, not regular coinage
Iconic coin motif	Two-masted ship
Agricultural advance	Iron ploughshares, paddy transplantation
Major rice zone	Krishna-Godavari delta
Cotton fame	Noted by Pliny for Andhra
3-tier polity	Raja – Mahabhoja – Senapati
Military note	Pliny cites large infantry-cavalry-elephant force
Land grants	First to Brahmanas, more to Buddhist monks
Key Buddhist sites	Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda
Literary work	Gathasaptasati by King Hala
Successor dynasty	Ikshvakus (eastern Deccan)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following was composed by Harishena?

CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2020PYQ 2

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS-1Mapping

7.Angola Geographical Profile (African Geography)

Times of IndiaLuanda · Mount Moco · Bié Plateau

What & Where

Angola: southwestern African state on Atlantic coast; exclave Cabinda lies north of main landmass.

Terrain rises from narrow coast to Bié/Huíla plateaus; Mount Moco (2,620 m) highest; SW fringe touches Namib Desert.

Tropical climate; rainfall shaped by cold Benguela Current.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Bilateral Ties

India extended USD 200 mn defence credit; focus naval, surveillance equipment.
Talks pledged cooperation: infrastructure, space tech, capacity-building.
Visit commemorates 40 yrs of India-Angola diplomatic relations.

Physical Geography

Rivers flow to Atlantic (Cuanza) and inland basins (Zambezi, Okavango).
Plateaus create fertile central highlands and hydropower potential.
Cabinda separated by DR Congo strip, rich in offshore oil blocks.

Resources & Economy

Second-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa; crude drives >90 % exports.
NE alluvial gravels yield high-quality diamonds; Kimberlite yet under-explored.
Iron, copper, gold reserves targeted for diversification post-oil.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital	Luanda
Ocean Front	Atlantic
Exclave	Cabinda
Neighbours	Rep. Congo, DR Congo, Zambia, Namibia
Highest Point	Mount Moco – 2,620 m
Major Plateaus	Bié (~2,600 m); Huíla (~2,300 m)
Largest River	Cuanza (Kwanza)
Border River with Namibia	Cunene
Congo Tributary	Cuango
Desert Zone	Namib (south-west)
Influential Current	Benguela (cold)
Key Ethnic Groups	Ovimbundu, Kimbundu, Bakongo
Top Minerals	Oil, diamonds, iron ore, copper, gold
India’s Defence LoC	USD 200 million
Diplomatic Ties	40 years (est. 1983)

GS-1Mapping

8.Chenab River Geography and Projects (Indian Rivers)

Hindustan TimesChandra-Bhaga · Baglihar Dam · Marusudar tributary

Illustration for Chenab River Geography and Projects (Indian Rivers)

What & Where

Chenab: glacier-fed Chandra-Bhaga merging at Tandi, flows via Himachal & J-K, enters Pakistani Punjab, meets Sutlej

Baglihar: 900 MW run-of-river dam on Chenab at Ramban district, Jammu & Kashmir

Issue: India halted Chenab discharge through Baglihar after suspending Indus Waters Treaty post Pahalgam attacks

Quick Facts for MCQs

Hydropower Projects

Portfolio: Salal, Dul Hasti, Ratle, Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kishtwar
Ownership: NHPC leads Baglihar phases
Storage: minimal, run-of-river design

Historical Significance

Vedic Sapta Sindhu reference
Mentioned in Alexander’s 325 BCE campaign
Site of Sikh-Afghan Battle of Chenab

Legal & Policy

Pakistan challenged Baglihar design parameters
World Bank neutral expert allowed build with tweaks
India suspends Indus Waters obligations post-terror attacks

Security Dimension

Water halt deployed as strategic pressure tool
Ramban dam located in militancy-prone Chenab valley
Hydro-diplomacy entwined with broader Indo-Pak security calculus

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Formation	Chandra + Bhaga at Tandi
Chandra source	Bara-lacha-la Pass east
Bhaga source	Surya Taal lake west
Upper-reach name	Chandra-Bhaga
Indian states	Himachal Pradesh, J&K
Pakistan entry	Punjab province
Confluence	Joins Sutlej → Panjnad
Largest tributary	Marusudar (right bank)
Baglihar capacity	900 MW
Treaty involved	Indus Waters 1960

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Salal Power Project is situated on which one among the following rivers?

CDS_GK, GS1 2009PYQ 2

The Dul Hasti Power Station is based on which one of the following rivers ?

GS-3Environment

9.Biodiversity Benefit Sharing Regulations 2025 (Benefit Sharing)

Down to EarthNational Biodiversity Authority · Digital Sequence Information · turnover slabs

Illustration for Biodiversity Benefit Sharing Regulations 2025 (Benefit Sharing)

What & Where

Biodiversity Benefit Sharing Regulations 2025: new NBA rules under Biological Diversity Act 2002 for equitable benefit sharing.

Covers all utilisation (physical or Digital Sequence Information) of India’s biological resources by industry, researchers, IPR seekers.

Jurisdiction: entire India; regulator-cum-approver is National Biodiversity Authority, HQ Chennai.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Turnover-linked rates replace earlier profit-based model for clearer compliance.
Mandatory annual disclosure tightens monitoring of biodiversity use.
Researchers/IPR applicants must show ABS compliance before approvals.

Economic Angle

Low-revenue entities (<₹5 cr) incentivised with zero liability.
Slab approach expected to raise predictable funds for local communities.
High-value species clause deters over-extraction of premium resources.

International Context

Aligns India’s ABS with Nagoya Protocol and COP16 decision on multilateral DSI benefit sharing.
Industries (pharma, biotech, cosmetics) globally urged to compensate indigenous custodians.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Notified by	National Biodiversity Authority
Statute base	Biological Diversity Act 2002
Effective year	2025
Reporting threshold	Firms with ≥ ₹1 crore turnover
Benefit-share slabs	0% (<₹5 cr); 0.2% (₹5–50 cr); 0.4% (₹50–250 cr); 0.6% (>₹250 cr)
High-value species minimum	5 % of ex-factory turnover (red sanders, sandalwood, agarwood)
Cultivated medicinal plants	Exempt from benefit sharing (2023 Amendment)
NBA retention	10–15 % of received amount
DSI coverage	Explicitly brought under ABS regime
NBA set-up year	2003; HQ Chennai

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2020PYQ 1

Pursuant to the ratification of Convention on Biological Diversity, India legislated Biodiversity Act in the year:

GEO_GS, GS1 2012PYQ 2

How does National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) help in protecting the Indian agriculture?

GS-3EnvironmentQuick Bite

10.Surge in Leopard Poaching (Leopard Poaching)

Down to EarthCITES 12 000 leopards · IUCN Vulnerable · Schedule-I WPA

Illustration for Surge in Leopard Poaching (Leopard Poaching)

What & Where

Leopard (Panthera pardus): adaptable big-cat once widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East, South-SE Asia.

Species now absent from ≈75 % of historical range due to poaching, habitat loss.

Indian strongholds: Madhya Pradesh > Maharashtra > Karnataka > Tamil Nadu; national estimate 13,874 (2024).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Trade Dynamics

Substitution: Poachers pivot to leopards as tigers face stricter protection and lower detectability.
Parts mis-branded as tiger to satisfy Asian demand for medicine, trophies, luxury goods.
South African captive-breeding plus weak laws act as global supply node for illicit big-cat parts.

Legal & Policy

Tigers enjoy tighter surveillance, inadvertently pushing traffickers toward less-guarded leopards.
CITES Appendix I bans commercial export; enforcement gaps enable continued cross-border flows.
India’s Schedule I listing mandates highest protection, but field enforcement varies across states.

Conservation Trends

India shows modest recovery; global picture grim with vast range contractions.
Poaching, habitat fragmentation, retaliatory conflicts synergise to depress non-protected populations.
Central Indian forests remain critical corridors for long-term genetic viability.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Illegal trade (2020-23)	≈12,000 leopards/parts (CITES)
Historic range lost	≈75 % across Africa-Asia
India population 2024	13,874 individuals
Annual growth 2018-24	1.08 % per year
Top Indian state	Madhya Pradesh
IUCN status	Vulnerable
CITES listing	Appendix I
Wildlife Act tag	Schedule I (WPA 1972)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 1999PYQ 1

"India has the largest population of the Asian X. Today, there are just about 20,000 to 25,000 X in their natural habitat spreading across the evergreen forests, dry thorn forests, swamps and grasslands. Their prime habitats are, however, the moist deciduous forests. The X population in India ranges from Northwest India where they are found in the forest divisions of Dehradun, Bijnor and Nainital districts of UP to the Western Ghats in the states of Karnataka and Kerala and in Tamil Nadu. In Cen

GS1 2017PYQ 2

In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

11.Red Admiral Butterfly First Indian Record (Red Admiral)

The HinduVanessa atalanta · Dhauladhar range · Nymphalidae

Illustration for Red Admiral Butterfly First Indian Record (Red Admiral)

What & Where

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) recorded first-ever in India, Dhauladhar range, Himachal Pradesh, Western Himalaya.

Nymphalidae family; wingspan 67–72 mm; narrower, deeper crimson discal band + constant upper-forewing spot vs V. indica.

Native to North & South America, Europe, much of Asia; no verified records China, Mongolia, Afghanistan till now.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Taxonomy & Morphology

Discal-band Colour: deeper crimson, narrower than V. indica.
Sexual Dimorphism: slight size increase in females; pattern constant across sexes.
Spot Presence: upper-forewing white spot always present, absent in Indian counterpart.

Habitat & Distribution

Western Himalaya: nettle abundance aids larval survival.
Global Spread: Nearctic, Neotropical, Palearctic ecozones, absent verified East-Central Asian records.
Microhabitats: frequents stream banks, city gardens, wet woodlands needing minerals, sugars, water.

Behaviour & Life Cycle

Territory: males defend perching sites, chase rivals vigorously.
Feeding: adults sip nectar, tree sap; larvae feed exclusively on Urtica spp.
Phenology: multivoltine in temperate zones, migratory in colder regions.

Climate Adaptation

Host-Plant Diversity: reliance on widespread Urticaceae buffers against temperature shifts.
Threats: habitat loss, altered plant phenology could outpace adaptive capacity.
Conservation Cue: urban-friendly species still benefits from wetland and forest protection.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Family	Nymphalidae
Scientific name	Vanessa atalanta
Indian first sighting	Dhauladhar mountains, Himachal Pradesh
Wingspan (♂–♀)	67–72 mm
Key ID mark	Diagnostic white spot on upper forewing
Look-alike species	Indian Red Admiral (V. indica)
Larval host plant	Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)
Usual habitats	Urban areas, disturbed sites, moist forests, wetlands
Male behaviour	Strong territorial chases at roosting spots
Climate resilience driver	Uses diverse Urticaceae host plants

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2023PYQ 1

Which butterfly species was recently named the official butterfly of Jammu and Kashmir?

CDS_GK, GS1 2016PYQ 2

Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

GS-3S&T

12.DRDO Stratospheric Airship Platform (High-Altitude Airship)

The HinduADRDE · 17 km altitude · ISR

Illustration for DRDO Stratospheric Airship Platform (High-Altitude Airship)

What & Where

Stratospheric Airship Platform — helium-filled, lighter-than-air craft meant to loiter at ~17 km in the stratosphere.

Developed by ADRDE, Agra under DRDO; maiden test flight reached target altitude over Uttar Pradesh skies.

Intended for continuous ISR, earth observation, comm-relay; complements satellites at a fraction of cost.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology Specs

Envelope uses multilayer polymer-fabric resisting UV, low temperature, low pressure.
Autonomous pressure control maintains shape despite thermal variations.
Solar/ battery options planned for multi-day station-keeping.

Test Objectives

Validate pressure control accuracy, emergency venting under simulated faults.
Capture in-flight telemetry for simulation models and future design optimisation.
Demonstrate safe retrieval without payload loss.

Security Dimension

Persistent ISR boosts border, coastal and maritime domain awareness.
High-altitude platform offers minimal radar cross-section, increasing survivability.
Indigenous capability reduces dependence on foreign satellite imagery.

Civil Applications

Disaster relief: quick comms relay when ground networks fail.
Environmental monitoring: long-dwell atmospheric sensing for climate, pollution data.
Rural broadband: potential stratospheric internet hubs for remote areas.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Developer	Aerial Delivery R&D Establishment, Agra
Parent body	DRDO, Ministry of Defence
Flight altitude achieved	~17 km (stratosphere)
Endurance during test	62 minutes
Propulsion type	Lighter-than-air, helium lift
Core material	High-strength, low-permeability envelope
Key systems validated	Envelope pressure control, emergency deflation
Primary payload role	ISR sensors & communication relays
Recovery status	Complete post-mission system recovery
Comparative cost	Cheaper than satellite launches for persistent coverage

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

भारत का ‘मिशन शक्ति’ (DRDO) निम्नलिखित में से किससे संबंधित है?

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 2

Ministry of Defence signed contract with which one of the following organizations for Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) and other equipment for around 3000 crores?

GS-3S&T

13.India's First Genome-Edited Rice (Genome Editing)

News on AirDRR Dhan 100 · Pusa DST Rice 1 · CRISPR-Cas9

Illustration for India's First Genome-Edited Rice (Genome Editing)

What & Where

India’s first genome-edited rice, DRR Dhan-100 & Pusa DST Rice-1, launched 2023-24 by ICAR institutes.

Created via CRISPR-Cas9 (SDN1) editing; no transgenes, hence outside “strict GMO” regime.

Labs: ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad; ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Genes

CRISPR SDN1 removes/knocks-out gene fragments without donor template.
CKX2 down-regulation elevates cytokinin, boosting panicle grain number.
DST mutation enhances drought, salinity tolerance by modulating stomatal closure.

Environmental Impact

Early maturity plus sturdy stem lowers lodging losses and methane duration.
Large irrigation saving reduces groundwater extraction pressure.
Stress-tolerant line sustains yields on marginal saline soils.

Legal & Policy

2022 Dept of Biotechnology guidelines exempt SDN1 & SDN2 edits from GEAC approval.
Varieties treated akin to conventional mutants for seed certification.
Facilitates faster R&D-to-field pipeline versus transgenic crops.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent variety (DRR Dhan-100)	Samba Mahsuri / BPT 5204
Parent variety (Pusa DST Rice-1)	MTU 1010
Yield increase	DRR Dhan-100: +19%; Pusa DST Rice-1: +30.4% in stress soils
Days to maturity	DRR Dhan-100: ≈130 days (≈20 days earlier)
Key gene edited	DRR Dhan-100: CKX2 (Gn1a); Pusa DST Rice-1: DST
Major trait	Higher grains & lodging resistance / Drought-salinity tolerance
Water saving	≈7,500 M cum irrigation water (DRR Dhan-100)
Methane cut	Faster crop reduces CH₄ emissions (DRR Dhan-100)
Foreign DNA present	None; SDN1 precise deletions
Regulatory status	Not classified as GMO under India’s 2022 guidelines
Editing method	CRISPR-Cas9, site-directed nuclease-1 (SDN1)
Developer institutes	IIRR-Hyderabad; IARI-New Delhi

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Recently, ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) has developed the world's first genome-edited rice varieties. Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to the developed products?

CDS_GK, GS1 2018PYQ 2

भारत में विकसित आनुवंशिकतः संशोधित सरसों (जेनेटिकली मॉडिफाइड सरसों / GM सरसों) के सन्दर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

GS-3S&T

14.Global Rise in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (Immunisation)

The HinduWHO · UNICEF · Gavi

Illustration for Global Rise in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (Immunisation)

What & Where

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs): illnesses like measles, polio, tetanus avoidable through timely immunisation.

Vaccination: injection of weakened/inactive pathogen to trigger protective immune memory without causing disease.

Hotspots: U.S. measles spike, polio return in several African states, 15 mn children at risk in fragile zones.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Global Uptake

Decline: COVID-19 disruptions stalled routine shots worldwide.
Herd-Immunity: High coverage lowers outbreak probability, protecting unvaccinated groups.
Funding: Gavi, COVAX facing budget squeezes threatening rollout continuity.

Key Challenges

Misinformation: Social media myths fuelling vaccine hesitancy, e.g., U.S. measles surge.
Logistics: Weak cold-chains delay rural deliveries, especially in low-income states.
Conflict: Insecurity blocks outreach in Africa, Middle East, South Asia.

Indian Programme

UIP: Targets 26 mn children, 34 mn pregnant women annually; introduced MR, PCV, RVV.
Milestones: Polio-free 2014; maternal–neonatal tetanus eliminated 2015.
Gap: 1 in 4 Indian children still misses essential doses.

Way Forward

Strengthen-Primary: Upgrade sub-centres, cold-chain, frontline staffing.
Counter-Myths: Use AI analytics, community influencers, school curricula for fact-based messaging.
Finance-Commit: Support Immunisation Agenda 2030; honour Gavi US $9 bn pledge.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Children missing all routine shots 2023	14.5 million
Countries with moderate–severe service disruption 2024	>50 % of WHO-monitored
U.S. measles cases Jan–May 2025	935 (3× 2024 total)
Polio resurgence location	Multiple African nations
Lives saved by vaccines yearly	4.2 million
Share by measles vaccine	60 % of lives saved
ROI per $1 on vaccines (WHO)	US $54
Child survival rise since 1974	40 %
India full immunisation (NFHS-5)	76.1 %
Mission Indradhanush launch	2014

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

Mission Indradhanush aims at

CDS_GK, GEO_GS 2020PYQ 2

Mission Indradhanush is a scheme pertaining to:

GS-2Scheme

15.Khelo India Youth Games Overview (Khelo India)

Hindustan Times7th edition · Patna · Ministry of Youth Affairs

What & Where

Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) – annual national multi-sport meet under Khelo India Scheme

Aims: grassroots talent ID, mass participation, excellence grooming for global events

7th edition 2024 hosted in Patna, first multi-discipline national event for Bihar

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Khelo India Scheme funds venue upgrade, athlete training, annual scholarships
Esports inclusion signals push toward digital-era competitive formats
Online athlete registration and Geo-tagged progress tracking used for transparency

Event Highlights

Sepaktakraw entry raises indigenous and Southeast Asian sport exposure
Esports kept demonstrative to gauge future medal-sport feasibility
Bihar debut aims regional sporting ecosystem boost and facility legacy

Youth Focus

Under-17 segment nurtures school talent pipeline for Junior Nationals
Under-21 bracket provides bridge to Khelo India University Games and senior squads

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year	2018
Nodal ministry	Youth Affairs & Sports
Current edition	7th
2024 host venue	Patna, Bihar
Previous venues	Delhi, Pune, Guwahati, Panchkula, Bhopal, Chennai
Target age bands	Under-17 & Under-21
Total medal disciplines	27
First-time discipline	Sepaktakraw
Demonstration event	Esports
Player benefit	₹5-lakh annual scholarship up to 8 years
Inauguration mode	Virtual by PM Narendra Modi

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

Which one of the following States is planned to host the Khelo India Youth Games (4th Edition)?

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following statements about Khelo India University Games (KIUG):

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