Thursday, 8 May 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

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: With reference to the Government of India, consider the following information:

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

Q: River Beas, flowing from Himachal and Punjab, joins the river

The correct answer is (c) Chenab. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: The Luhri Hydro-Electric Power Project is being constructed on the river

The correct answer is (a) Satluj. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: Which one of the following texts is a commentary written by Chakrapanidatta (11 th Century CE from Bengal) on the Sushrut Samhita ?

The correct answer is (a) Sabadachandrika. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2024.

Q: Which one of the following Indian Ocean island nations has recently declared a state of environmental emergency due to oil spill from a grounded ship?

The correct answer is (d) Sri Lanka. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2020.

Q: Which country has replaced Maldives to host the 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games?

The correct answer is (a) Madagascar. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: Which one of the following resolutions in the final agreement reached at COP28 is associated with the target of achieving 'Net Zero by 2050'?

The correct answer is (a) Fossil fuel phase-out. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2024.

Q: पर्यावरण में निष्क्रिय हो जाने वाली ‘सूक्ष्ममणिकाएँ’ (Micro-beads) के विषय में अत्यधिक चिंता क्यों है?

The correct answer is (a) वे समुद्री पारितंत्रों के लिए हानिकारक मानी जाती हैं।. This question appeared in GS1 2019.

Q: Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries?

The correct answer is (b) Russia. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2019.

16 topicsGS-1: 4GS-2: 6GS-3: 6

0/16 done

GS-2Polity

1.Central Bureau of Investigation Overview (Central Bureau Investigation)

Hindustan TimesDSPE Act 1946 · Santhanam Committee · Non-statutory body

What & Where

Premier investigative agency of India probing corruption, economic offences and serious crimes

Powers drawn from Delhi Special Police Establishment Act 1946; not a constitutional or independent statutory body

Works nationwide under Ministry of Personnel; court or state consent determines jurisdiction

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Non statutory creation; legitimacy via 1963 resolution and DSPE Act mandate
DSPE Amendment 2021 allows yearly extensions for Director till five-year cap
ACC approves extensions after selection panel recommendation

Organisational Setup

Hierarchy: Director → Special Director → Joint Directors → DIGs → SPs
Current Director Praveen Sood, Karnataka cadre IPS, granted one-year extension
CBI acts as National Central Bureau linking India with Interpol

Functional Mandate

Anti-corruption branch targets Central employees, PSUs, UT officials
Economic offences wing investigates bank frauds, money laundering, major scams
Special crime division handles murder, terrorism, kidnapping referred by states/courts

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Origin as SPE	1941 (WW II era)
Formation as CBI	1 Apr 1963, Home Ministry resolution
Governing Act	DSPE Act 1946
Parent Ministry	Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Director Rank	DGP, IPS
Selection Panel	PM + LoP Lok Sabha + CJI/nominee
Fixed Tenure	2 years
Max Tenure (post-2021)	5 years, via annual extensions

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 2025PYQ 2

With reference to the Government of India, consider the following information:

GS-2Polity

2.Punjab-Haryana Bhakra Water Dispute (Interstate River Dispute)

Indian ExpressBBMB · Punjab Reorganisation Act 1966 · 4

Illustration for Punjab-Haryana Bhakra Water Dispute (Interstate River Dispute)

What & Where

Bhakra–Nangal project: Bhakra Dam on Satluj (Bilaspur, HP) + Nangal Dam 10 km downstream (Ropar, Punjab); reservoir = Gobind Sagar.

Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB): statutory body under Punjab Reorganisation Act 1966, renamed 1976; runs Bhakra, Nangal, Pong, Pandoh/Beas-Satluj Link.

Present flashpoint: Punjab refuses BBMB order to release extra 4,500 cusecs; Haryana seeks Supreme Court intervention.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Entry 56 Union List: Centre can regulate inter-state rivers.
River Boards Act 1956 never operationalised; no board set up.
2019 Bill proposes single permanent tribunal with penalty powers.

Hydrology & Infrastructure

Low snowfall shrinks inflow to Bhakra, Pong, Ranjit Sagar reservoirs.
SYL canal non-completion blocks assured conveyance to Haryana.
Thermal plants + urban clusters (Chandigarh, Gurugram) spike demand.

Drivers of Scarcity

Rice-centric cultivation + free power = unregulated tubewell pumping.
Indus Waters Treaty limits Punjab use of western rivers, heightening stress.
Climate-linked droughts intensify upstream–downstream competition.

Dispute Resolution Tools

Mediation step before tribunal: retired judges, hydrologists suggested.
Incentive model: link central funds to states’ compliance with awards.
IN-GRES mapping proposed for nationwide groundwater regulation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Extra water sought by Haryana	8,500 cusecs total (4,500 cusecs over current)
Voting on BBMB decision	Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi FOR; Punjab AGAINST
Year BMB constituted	1966
Year renamed BBMB	1976
Bhakra Dam height rank	2nd tallest in India (after Tehri)
Reservoir name	Gobind Sagar
SYL canal purpose	Carry Punjab-Haryana allocated Satluj water; still incomplete
Groundwater overdraft, Punjab	66 % extraction over recharge
Art 262 power	Parliament may bar SC/HC jurisdiction on inter-state water rows
Tribunal deadlines (2002 amend.)	1 yr to set up, 3 yrs to decide

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

River Beas, flowing from Himachal and Punjab, joins the river

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 2

The Luhri Hydro-Electric Power Project is being constructed on the river

GS-3Economy

3.Revised SHAKTI Coal Allocation Policy 2025 (Coal Linkage Policy)

PIBTwo-window structure · CCEA approval · Import substitution

What & Where

Revised SHAKTI Policy 2025: CCEA-cleared framework for demand-based domestic coal linkage to thermal power plants across India

Two allocation modes: Window-I (notified price, PPA-tied) & Window-II (premium bidding, PPA-free)

Implemented by Ministry of Coal & Ministry of Power; empowers an inter-ministerial Empowered Committee for issue-resolution

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Simplification compresses eight legal linkage routes into two, easing compliance and dispute resolution
Empowered Committee can grant deviations/clarifications without separate Cabinet nod
Policy encourages state/central gencos to seek future linkages via transparent e-bidding

Economic Angle

Domestic coal for imported-coal plants curbs forex outgo; aids current-account balance
Rationalised rail logistics & pithead siting aim to lower landed cost, thus consumer tariff
Zero extra spend for Coal India maintains PSU financial ratios while expanding sales volume

Market Dynamics

Window-II allows unrestricted sale on Day-Ahead, Term-Ahead & Real-Time power exchanges
Surplus electricity infusion deepens liquidity, enabling market-driven price discovery
FSA holders may bid additional coal, optimising plant load factors and grid reliability

Tech & Schemes

Pithead greenfield projects encouraged, cutting hauling distance and emissions per kWh
Coal rationalisation leverages rail-link upgrades for faster, cheaper dispatch
Import substitution push aligns with Make-in-India & Atmanirbhar Bharat energy goals

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Approval body	Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
Implementation year	2025 (revised version)
Nodal ministries	Coal; Power
Number of allocation windows	2
Window-I eligibility	Central/State gencos & IPPs with existing PPAs
Window-II eligibility	Any generator, incl. imported-coal plants; no PPA needed
Price basis Window-I	Notified Coal India price; nomination or tariff-based bid
Price basis Window-II	Premium over notified price, discovered via bidding
Earlier linkage buckets	8 categories (now merged)
Empowered Committee heads	Secretaries (Power, Coal) + CEA Chairperson
Additional govt expenditure	Nil

GS-1History

4.Biju Patnaik Stalingrad Contribution (Biju Patnaik Contributions)

FPBattle of Stalingrad · Royal Indian Air Force · Supply missions

Illustration for Biju Patnaik Stalingrad Contribution (Biju Patnaik Contributions)

What & Where

Memorial plaque installed at Russian Embassy, New Delhi, honours aviator–statesman Biju Patnaik

Acknowledges Patnaik’s risky supply flights during WWII Battle of Stalingrad, Volgograd, Russia

Symbolises historic India–Russia wartime cooperation across Eurasian theatre

Quick Facts for MCQs

Freedom Struggle Links

Covert flights aided Quit India leaders and smuggled documents
Evacuated Burmese revolutionaries, sustained anti-colonial networks

International Solidarity

Supported Soviet Union in worst urban battle of WWII
Later flew arms to Indonesian republicans, winning their top civilian honour

Battle Statistics

Urban combat and siege caused ≈ 2 million combined casualties
German 6th Army starved, surrendered 2 Feb 1943, first major Nazi defeat East Front

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth year	1916
Birthplace	Cuttack, Odisha
Joined RIAF	1936
WWII mission	Supply flights to besieged Red Army
Stalingrad battle dates	17 Jul 1942 – 2 Feb 1943
Soviet counterstrike	Operation Uranus, Nov 1942
Axis troops encircled	≈ 3 lakh
German POW captured	≈ 1 lakh incl. Gen Paulus
Peak German city control	90 % by late 1942
Indonesian recognition	Awarded for aiding its freedom war
Plaque location	Chanakyapuri, New Delhi Embassy

GS-1History

5.Revival of Ayurvedic Nighantu Manuscripts (Ayurvedic Nighantus)

PIBDravyaratnakara Nighantu · Dravyanamakara Nighantu · CCRAS

Illustration for Revival of Ayurvedic Nighantu Manuscripts (Ayurvedic Nighantus)

What & Where

Ayurvedic manuscripts = classical texts cataloguing drug names, formulations, therapeutic actions.

Nighaṇṭu = lexicon-type Ayurveda treatise on properties of plant, mineral, animal drugs.

CCRAS, Ministry of AYUSH, India has freshly edited two rare Nighaṇṭus.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Textual Details

Dravyaratnākara sources earlier Dhanvantari & Raja Nighaṇṭus, adds novel substances.
Dravyanamākara acts as post-Dhanvantari appendix clarifying naming overlaps.
Maharashtra practitioners cited Dravyaratnākara till 19th century.

Pharmacological Significance

Drug-homonym clarity aids Rasashastra metal-mineral formulations.
Synonym lists support Bhaishajya Kalpana in precise ingredient matching.
Added therapeutic substances expand classical materia medica for clinicians.

Institutional Effort

CCRAS manuscript cell undertook collation, critical editing, annotation.
Revival aligns with AYUSH mandate to digitise, publish threatened Ayurveda texts.
Outputs expected to enrich research, education, standardisation initiatives.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Manuscript-1 name	Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu
Manuscript-1 author	Mudgala Paṇḍita
Manuscript-1 year	1480 AD
Manuscript-1 chapters	18
Manuscript-2 name	Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu
Manuscript-2 attributed to	Bhisma Vaidya
Manuscript-2 verses	182
Manuscript-2 focus	Homonyms in drug names
Common editor	Dr. S. D. Kamat
Revival agency	CCRAS, Min. of AYUSH

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following texts is a commentary written by Chakrapanidatta (11 th Century CE from Bengal) on the Sushrut Samhita ?

GS-1Mapping

6.Maldives Geography and Strategic Importance (Indian Ocean Mapping)

Economic TimesMaafilaafushi Atoll · Coral archipelago · SAGAR doctrine

What & Where

Maldives – low-lying Indian Ocean archipelago (~1,200 coral islands) southwest of Sri Lanka/India.

Maafilaafushi Atoll – northern, logistics hub; hosting INS Sharda for HADR naval drill.

Lies astride key east-west shipping lanes; integral to India’s SAGAR outreach.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Geography & Environment

Low-lying topography heightens climate-change vulnerability; reefs vital natural breakwaters.
Coral atolls formed on ancient volcanic ridges; soil shallow, freshwater lenses limited.

Demography & Culture

Multilingual society; English, Hindi, Arabic widely understood alongside Dhivehi.
Ethnic mix reflects historic trade routes across Africa, Arabia, South-Asia, Southeast-Asia.

Security Dimension

Location enables surveillance over 3.5 million sq km of busy sea-lanes.
Regular India-Maldives naval drills enhance HADR readiness, counter-piracy, maritime domain awareness.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital	Malé
Official language	Dhivehi (Indo-Aryan)
State religion	Islam
Total islands / inhabited	~1,200 / ~200
Number of natural atolls	26
Maximum elevation	1.8 m (≈6 ft)
Nearest Indian territory	Lakshadweep ~400 km north-east
Protective feature	Barrier reefs shield from monsoon erosion
Strategic atoll	Maafilaafushi
Indian doctrines linked	SAGAR, MAHASAGAR
Dominant ethnic group	Maldivians with Tamil, Sinhalese, Arab ancestry

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2020PYQ 1

Which one of the following Indian Ocean island nations has recently declared a state of environmental emergency due to oil spill from a grounded ship?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 2

Which country has replaced Maldives to host the 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games?

GS-3Environment

7.IMO Draft Net-Zero Shipping Framework (IMO Net-Zero Shipping)

IMOMARPOL Annex VI · Global Fuel Standard · Carbon pricing

Illustration for IMO Draft Net-Zero Shipping Framework (IMO Net-Zero Shipping)

What & Where

IMO draft Net-Zero Framework – new legally binding Chapter 5 under MARPOL Annex VI to curb shipping GHG.

Processes: Global Fuel Standard (GFI), carbon-pricing remedial units, Net-Zero Fund for revenue recycling.

Scope: ships > 5 000 GT on international routes, covering 85 % maritime CO₂; net-zero target circa 2050.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

LegalBasis: universal sectoral rules; first time emissions cap plus carbon price combined.
Alignment: supports Paris Agreement and 2023 IMO Strategy trajectories.
Threshold: obligation triggered only on international voyages, excluding domestic fleets.

Market Mechanisms

GlobalFuelStandard: progressively tightens allowable GHG per energy unit.
CarbonPricing: non-compliant ships buy remedial units; compliant earn tradable surplus.
NetZeroFund: manages revenues, issues credits, facilitates trading.

Tech & Innovation

Incentives: credits favour ammonia, methanol, hydrogen fuels, onboard CCS, hybrids.
R&DGrants: Fund earmarks money for safety testing and scalability of new bunkers.
DesignGap: wind propulsion or hull optimisation left voluntary, not mandated.

Equity Dimension

RevenueUse: prioritises SIDS and LDCs for climate resilience, capacity building.
CostRelief: grants aim to offset higher compliance expenses for poorer flags.
InclusiveDialogue: calls for equitable tech transfer and financing channels.

Limitations & Challenges

Timing: 2027 start viewed slow against 1.5 °C urgency.
Transparency: accurate well-to-wake data needs blockchain-style tracking systems.
FuelSupply: present global stock of zero-carbon bunkers insufficient for early compliance.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Legal anchor	MARPOL Annex VI, Chapter 5
Start of enforcement	2027
Coverage threshold	Ships >5 000 GT
Emission target year	“Around” 2050 net-zero
Emission metric	Well-to-wake GHG intensity
Share of CO₂ addressed	≈85 % of sector
Revenue channel	IMO Net-Zero Fund

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following resolutions in the final agreement reached at COP28 is associated with the target of achieving 'Net Zero by 2050'?

GS-3Environment

8.Microplastic Penetration of Ocean Depths (Ocean Microplastics)

Down to EarthOcean gyres · Carbon cycle disruption · Nylon fishing gear

What & Where

Microplastics: plastic particles < 5 mm arising directly (primary) or from breakdown (secondary) of larger items

Carried by solar UV, wind, currents; concentrate in slow-moving ocean gyres

Found from surface to 100 m depth; smaller particles embed deeper than macro-fragments

Quick Facts for MCQs

Environmental Impact

Microplastics reduce oxygen transport, reach placentas, damage human cells, threaten marine life
Act as external carbon, complicating carbon budgeting and sequestration estimates
Up to 5 % particulate carbon now plastic in subtropical gyres

Biogeochemical Effects

Impair microbial nitrification, denitrification, altering nutrient balance
Leach metabolites disrupting oceanic nutrient cycles
Vertical plastic flux influences carbon pump efficiency

Legal & Policy

UNEP drafting global Plastics Treaty targeting microplastics
India: Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 & 2024 amendment; single-use plastic ban
Emerging focus on subsurface plastic monitoring, not just surface cleanup

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Plastic input (1950-2015)	17–47 million t
Polymer types detected	> 56; nylon & PET dominate
Max depth in gyres	100 m
Micro-C share at 2 000 m	5 % of total POC
Radiocarbon bias	Appears 420 years older

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

पर्यावरण में निष्क्रिय हो जाने वाली ‘सूक्ष्ममणिकाएँ’ (Micro-beads) के विषय में अत्यधिक चिंता क्यों है?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

9.Genetic Adaptations of Jeju Haenyeo Divers (Human Genetic Adaptation)

The HinduBradycardia · Cold tolerance · Jeju Island

Illustration for Genetic Adaptations of Jeju Haenyeo Divers (Human Genetic Adaptation)

What & Where

Haenyeo: women free-divers of South Korea’s Jeju Island harvesting shellfish without oxygen gear

Jeju Island: basaltic volcanic island hosting dormant Hallasan volcano and extensive lava-tube system

Recognition: Haenyeo culture (2016) and Jeju Volcanic Island & Lava Tubes hold separate UNESCO listings

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physiological Adaptations

Natural-selection evidence links long-term diving to heart-rate reduction, efficient blood-pressure regulation and thermoregulation
Genetic markers specific to Haenyeo indicate inherited cold-water endurance traits

UNESCO Status

Intangible Heritage title safeguards Haenyeo knowledge, rituals, ecological practices since 2016
Separate Natural World Heritage status covers lava tubes, 360 satellite cones around Hallasan

Geographic Features

Jeju formed by shield-volcanic activity; basaltic composition supports extensive lava-tube networks
Peripheral 360 oreum cones illustrate monogenetic volcanic field characteristic of Jeju

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Community	Haenyeo (women divers)
Country/Province	South Korea, Jeju
Typical Dive Depth	≈10 m
Main Catch	Abalone, sea urchins, other shellfish
Key Physiological Response	Bradycardia & improved cold tolerance
Oxygen Support	None; purely breath-hold diving
UNESCO Intangible Year	2016
Island Geology	Basalt, lava flows
Tallest Peak	Hallasan 1,950 m (dormant)
World Heritage Tag	Jeju Volcanic Island & Lava Tubes

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

10.International Thalassemia Day Theme 2024 (Thalassemia Awareness)

PIB8 May observance · RCH programme · NHM

What & Where

International Thalassemia Day – global awareness day, observed 8 May annually.

Focus – prevention, early diagnosis, equitable treatment of inherited blood disorder Thalassemia.

India – high-burden nation; compulsory testing proposed under RCH within National Health Mission.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Awareness & Advocacy

Theme2024 highlights equality in comprehensive, accessible Thalassemia care.
Stakeholder mobilisation aims prevention, awareness, diagnosis, lifelong quality support.

Tech & Schemes

Integration – compulsory carrier testing within antenatal RCH services promoted.
RCH provides reproductive, maternal, newborn, adolescent health packages under NHM.

Disease Burden

Caseload India ≈ 1 lakh; ~10 k fresh cases yearly sustain high burden.
Early detection plus carrier screening identified as pivotal incidence-reduction tools.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Observance date	8 May (every year)
2024 Theme	Empowering Lives, Embracing Progress: Equitable and Accessible Thalassemia Treatment for All
Indian patient load	≈ 1 lakh cases
Annual new cases (India)	≈ 10,000
Proposed screening platform	RCH programme
RCH launch year	2005
Parent umbrella	National Health Mission
Core RCH targets	Cut maternal & infant mortality, total fertility rate

GS-2Editorial

11.India-USA Strategic Energy Partnership (India–USA Energy)

The HinduSCEP · iCET · Critical minerals MoU

Illustration for India-USA Strategic Energy Partnership (India–USA Energy)

What & Where

India–USA energy cooperation: structured collaboration on clean power, critical minerals, nuclear technology and emerging R&D.

Principal vehicles: Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP), Initiative on Critical & Emerging Technology (iCET), 2024 Critical Minerals MoU.

Geography: bilateral supply chains India↔USA; outward mineral ventures in Australia, Africa, third countries.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Drivers & Objectives

Energy security; predictable fuels vital for $5-tn economy vision.
Climate commitments; diversified low-carbon mix for net-zero 2070.
Supply-chain resilience; democratic sourcing to cut China-centric dependence.

Obstacles

Liability Law; 2010 Act deters U.S. private nuclear investment.
Long project gestation; >9 yr average delays inflate nuclear costs.
Geopolitical trade frictions; tariffs/protectionism risk mineral flows.

Proposed Actions

Amend liability clauses; enable SMR tech transfer and foreign equity.
Joint stockpiling & blockchain portal; ensure mineral traceability and hedging.
Standardise designs, aim 5–6 GW nuclear additions yearly by early 2030s.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
SCEP coverage	biofuels, solar, hydrogen, energy efficiency
iCET launch & scope	2023; clean tech, AI, quantum, SMRs
Critical Minerals MoU	inked 2024
India nuclear target	100 GW capacity (long-term)
Nuclear capex need	≈ $180 bn by 2047
FY24 energy import bill	$153 bn
China rare-earth processing share	~90 %
Indian Civil Liability Act	enacted 2010

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2019PYQ 1

Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries?

ESE_GS, GS1 2026PYQ 2

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

GS-2Editorial

12.India and Arctic Geopolitical Shifts (Arctic Geopolitics)

The HinduNorthern Sea Route · Climate change · Resource access

Illustration for India and Arctic Geopolitical Shifts (Arctic Geopolitics)

What & Where

Definition Arctic = region north of 66° 34′ N (Arctic Circle) centred on the North Pole.

Geography Includes parts of 8 states—USA, Canada, Denmark (Greenland), Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia—under Arctic Council.

Routes/Resources Melting ice opens Northern Sea Route and exposes large oil, gas, mineral deposits.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Geopolitics & Security

Militarisation Russia reactivates bases, China widens footprint, US renews interest in Greenland.
Trade-shift NSR may bypass Indian Ocean lanes, hurting MAHASAGAR vision.
Order-risk Arctic power play could unsettle wider Indo-Pacific maritime balance.

India Engagement

Treaties Svalbard signatory 1920; Arctic Council Observer since 2013.
Infrastructure Himadri manned 180 days/yr; IndArc first Indian moored observatory.
Policy 2022 framework targets science, climate links to Himalayas, maritime cooperation.

Gaps & Challenges

Strategy No clear plan for growing Arctic militarisation and competition.
Economy Sparse Indian investment in NSR shipping, resource extraction, tourism.
Research Limited work on biodiversity, marine pollution; weak indigenous community outreach.

Proposed Steps

Institutionalisation Create Arctic desks in MEA & MoD; craft unified polar policy.
Connectivity Boost Chennai–Vladivostok EMC and India-Russia-Nordic green corridor along NSR.
Innovation Launch Arctic Technology Hub for clean energy and ice-compatible maritime assets.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Arctic latitude boundary	66° 34′ N
Population	~4 million (≈10 % indigenous)
Northern Sea Route	Near year-round navigable
Greenland rare-earth share	≈25 % of global reserves
India 1st Arctic expedition	2007
Himadri station set-up	2008, Svalbard
IndArc observatory	2014, Kongsfjorden
Arctic atmospheric lab	2016, Gruvebadet
India observer status	2013, Arctic Council
India’s Arctic Policy	Released 2022

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2015PYQ 1

The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of

GS1 2014PYQ 2

Consider the following countries:

GS-2Security

13.Indo-Pacific Logistics Network Initiative (Quad Logistics Network)

ANIQuad countries · HADR coordination · Tabletop Exercise Hawaii

Illustration for Indo-Pacific Logistics Network Initiative (Quad Logistics Network)

What & Where

Multilateral Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN): shared framework for humanitarian logistics coordination among Quad nations.

Simulated launch via Tabletop Exercise at Asia-Pacific Centre for Security Studies, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Geographic ambit: entire Indo-Pacific—coastal states, islands, remote zones prone to cyclones, tsunamis, health crises.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Interoperability: common standards, mutual logistics support agreements, plug-and-play digital dashboards.
Mapping: live inventory of air/sea lift, warehouses, medical stocks across Quad.
Compatibility: dovetails with IPMDA surveillance feeds for situational awareness.

Humanitarian Impact

Resilience: pre-positioned supplies cut response times during cyclones or tsunamis.
Health: aligns with One-Health approach, supports vaccine and medical kit delivery.
Outreach: boosts Quad’s soft-power as “force for good” beyond hard security.

Security Dimension

Trust-building: regular joint drills strengthen operational confidence among navies and civilian agencies.
Deterrence: seamless logistics complicates adversary disruption during regional crises.
Regional architecture: complements existing bilateral logistics pacts (LEMOA, ACSA, etc.) without replacing them.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Members	India, USA, Japan, Australia
Nature	Civilian-first humanitarian & disaster-relief logistics network
First test	Tabletop Exercise (TTX), April 2024 (Hawaii)
Host venue	Asia-Pacific Centre for Security Studies, Honolulu
Core output	Shared, interoperable logistics framework
Tech tools	Digital mapping, joint resource planning, real-time tracking
Focus hazards	Cyclones, tsunamis, pandemics, other natural disasters
Complementary schemes	Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness; Quad Pandemic Preparedness Workshop
Scalability	Flexible modules deployable across entire region
Strategic aim	Faster, efficient HADR supply-chain responsiveness

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which one among the following statements with regard to India’s maritime initiative, SAGAR, is correct?

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2025PYQ 2

Which one of the following countries hosted the QUAD Leaders' Summit in 2024?

GS-3Security

14.Operation Sindoor Precision Missiles (Precision Missiles)

DHSCALP · HAMMER · BrahMos

Illustration for Operation Sindoor Precision Missiles (Precision Missiles)

What & Where

Operation Sindoor = Indian retaliatory precision-strike on 21 terror camps across 9 sites in Pakistan & PoK after Pahalgam attack.

Key weapons: SCALP, HAMMER, BrahMos cruise missiles plus loitering “kamikaze” drones launched mainly from Rafale/Su-30.

Goal: destroy terrorist infrastructure with strategic restraint, avoiding civilian or regular-military casualties.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Deterrence; demonstrates Indian resolve against cross-border terror without broad escalation.
Precision; minimal collateral claim to limit international fallout.
Geography; strikes restricted to terror hubs within Pakistan & PoK territory.

Missile Capabilities

SCALP; stealth, INS + GPS + IR guidance, bunker-buster profile.
HAMMER; modular 125-1000 kg glide bomb, jam-resistant multi-mode seeker.
BrahMos; fire-and-forget, supersonic dive, tri-service integration.

Operational Strategy

Sequencing; cruise missiles soften targets, drones perform real-time assessment & opportunistic hits.
Platforms; Rafale deploys SCALP/HAMMER, Su-30/MKIs possible BrahMos carriers.
All-weather; low-altitude flight paths and INS/GPS ensure night or poor-visibility execution.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Targets hit	21 camps, 9 locations
Core zone	Pakistan & Pakistan-occupied Kashmir
SCALP Range	~450 km
SCALP Manufacturer	MBDA, France
HAMMER Range	~70 km
HAMMER Manufacturer	Safran, France
BrahMos Speed	Mach 2.8–3
BrahMos Range	450–500 km
BrahMos Warhead	200–300 kg conventional
Loitering Munition Role	Surveillance + terminal strike

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CDS_GK 2025PYQ 1

भारत के सैन्य आयुध (military arsenal) के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं?

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 2

Which one of the following military operations was not undertaken by India ?

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

15.Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (Green Hydrogen Certification)

PIBNational Green Hydrogen Mission · BEE verification · Offset mechanism

What & Where

Scheme: Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India certifies renewable‐sourced hydrogen

Processes: Covers production via electrolysis or biomass conversion

Geography: Export hubs Kandla, Paradip, Tuticorin selected under National Green Hydrogen Mission

Quick Facts for MCQs

Policy & Governance

Compliance: Scheme nested under National Green Hydrogen Mission
Oversight: BEE frames rules, monitors issuance and misuse
Scope: Applies exclusively to domestically produced green hydrogen

Certification Mechanics

Verification: Producer submits data, third-party ACV agency validates lifecycle emissions
Validity: Certificate bound to batch, cannot be resold or split
Offset: Credits earned only through separate CCTS mechanism

Market Impact

Incentive: Clear labelling expected to boost domestic uptake and global export deals
Credibility: Removes risk premium for buyers wary of false green claims
Alignment: Supports India’s 2070 net-zero pathway

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Nodal ministry	Ministry of New & Renewable Energy
Verifier	BEE-accredited Carbon Verification Agency
Certificate traits	Non-transferable, non-tradeable, no emission-credit claim
Offset window	Hard-to-abate sectors via Carbon Credit Trading Scheme
Target sectors	Steel, fertiliser, refinery, cement etc
Anti-greenwashing aim	Enforces transparency, traceability, credibility
Export focus ports	Kandla, Paradip, Tuticorin
Applicable feedstock	Renewable electricity or biomass only

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2025PYQ 1

Which of the statements given below is/are correct?

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2022PYQ 2

US-based Ohmium International has started India's first green hydrogen electrolyzer manufacturing unit at

GS-1MiscQuick Bite

16.World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day (Humanitarian Organizations)

Business StandardHenry Dunant · ICRC · Geneva Conventions

Illustration for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day (Humanitarian Organizations)

What & Where

Annual humanitarian observance on 8 May by the International Red Cross & Red Crescent Movement

Marks birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, 1828; founder of ICRC and first Nobel Peace laureate

Celebrated through 191 National Societies active worldwide in conflicts, disasters, health crises

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Roots

Solferino 1859 horrors pushed Dunant to lobby for neutral medical aid
Advocacy birthed ICRC 1863 and first Geneva Convention 1864
World Red Cross Day formally adopted by Movement in 1948

Organisational Network

Movement comprises ICRC plus 191 independent National Societies
Operates in armed conflict, natural disaster, public-health emergencies
Upholds Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality across global operations

Indian Context

IRCS delivers disaster relief, blood services, community health programmes
Branches present in every Indian state and most districts
Works with government agencies during cyclones, floods, pandemics

Emblems & Principles

Protective emblems Red Cross, Crescent, Crystal on white backgrounds recognised by Geneva Conventions
Misuse of emblems prohibited under international humanitarian law
Seven Fundamental Principles guide volunteers; key ones Humanity, Neutrality, Impartiality

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
2025 Theme	Keeping Humanity Alive
First Observance Year	1948
Commemorates	Henry Dunant’s birth, 8 May 1828
Founder Organisation	International Committee of the Red Cross
Movement Size	80 million+ volunteers & staff
Core Emblems	Red Cross, Red Crescent, Red Crystal
Nobel Peace Prize	Dunant shared 1st award (1901) with Frédéric Passy
Indian Red Cross Start	1920 Act of Indian legislature
IRCS President	President of India
IRCS Chairman	Union Health Minister

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