Monday, 12 May 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Consider the following statements with respect to performance of the merchandise export of India in FY–2024:

The correct answer is (c) Both 1 and 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2025.

Q: The Atmanirbhar Bharat Scheme announced by the Government helps in:

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

Q: Which one of the following statements about a borrower from a Microfinance Company is NOT correct?

The correct answer is (d) The borrower should not refuse to pay any rate of interest offered.. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2022.

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (c) 1, 2 और 3. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2024.

Q: In which one of the following countries, did an ethnic violence between the communities of Hema and Lendu result in the death of hundreds of people?

The correct answer is (a) Democratic Republic of Congo. This question appeared in GS1 2004.

Q: Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?

The correct answer is (a) Chang La. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2007.

Q: Which one of the following passes is not located in Indian Himalayan region?

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

Q: WHO के वायु गुणवत्ता दिशानिर्देशों के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (a) 1, 3 और 4. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2022.

Q: भारत के सन्दर्भ में जलवायु परिवर्तन पर राष्ट्रीय कार्य योजना (NAPCC) के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं ?

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

Q: With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

The correct answer is (d) Neither 1 nor 2. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2014.

19 topicsGS-1: 3GS-2: 5GS-3: 11

0/19 done

GS-2Polity

1.Revisiting Safe Harbour Protections (IT Act Section 79)

The HinduSafe Harbour · Intermediary Liability · Information Technology Act

What & Where

Definition: Safe harbour shields online intermediaries from legal liability for user-generated content.

Location: Section 79, Information Technology Act 2000; mirrors US Communications Act Section 230.

Process: Immunity retained only if intermediary removes unlawful content after court/government notice (“actual knowledge”).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Condition: Platforms must appoint Grievance Officer, Nodal Contact Person in India, publish monthly compliance reports.
Penalty: Safe harbour revoked for misinformation, deepfakes, cyberfrauds upon non-compliance.
Challenge: 2023 Rules under judicial review for alleged overreach on press freedom.

Innovation Angle

Incentive: Liability shield encourages startups to host user content without prohibitive risk.
Risk: Removal could increase compliance costs, stifle smaller platforms.

Free Speech Concerns

Chill: Fear of liability may push intermediaries towards over-censorship.
Balance: Safe harbour aims to protect speech while enabling lawful takedowns.

Enforcement Mechanism

Trigger: Court order or authorised government notice constitutes “actual knowledge”.
Compliance: Prompt removal mandatory; delays invite criminal and civil proceedings.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Statute	IT Act 2000, Sec 79
Governing Rules	IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021
Latest amendment move	2023 draft Rules targeting “fake news”
Flagging authority proposed	PIB Fact-Check Unit
Key SC precedent	Shreya Singhal v. UoI (2015) limiting “actual knowledge”
Ministry reviewing shield	Information & Broadcasting (I&B)
Loss of immunity when	Non-compliance with takedown, due diligence lapses

GS-3Editorial

2.Resetting India’s Manufacturing Competitiveness (Manufacturing Sector)

The HinduGDP Share 17% · HSBC PMI 59.1 · FDI Inflows

Illustration for Resetting India’s Manufacturing Competitiveness (Manufacturing Sector)

What & Where

Manufacturing = industrial transformation of raw inputs to value-added goods; backbone for jobs, exports, tech diffusion

Key processes: core engineering lines, automation/Industry 4.0, design-testing-certification within plug-and-play parks

Geography: Major hubs Maharashtra-Gujarat-Tamil Nadu; new clusters along Gati Shakti multimodal corridors

Quick Facts for MCQs

Status Metrics

Contribution: sector still below 1991-set 25 % goal despite record exports
Momentum: PMI, FDI inflows, PLI bookings signal cyclical uptick
Vision: add $500 bn to global economy and millions of jobs by 2030

Challenges

Productivity: VA per head barely 16 % of world average
Innovation: R&D 0.7 % GDP vs S Korea 4.8 %
Logistics: 14–18 % GDP costs erode price competitiveness

Government Schemes

PLI: 14 sectors; projected $500 bn incremental output
Gati Shakti: digital master-plan to sync roads-rails-ports-utilities
FAME-II & Digital India: catalyse EVs, IoT, AI adoption across MSMEs

Prescriptions

R&D Push: raise to 2 % GDP; launch Manufacturing Innovation Fund
Infra: invest extra 1 % GDP on plug-and-play parks near ports
MSME Boost: credit guarantees, tech-training, GVC market linkage

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
GDP share (2023)	16–17 %
Workforce engaged	6 crore+
Merchandise manufacturing exports (FY23)	$447.46 bn
Target GDP share (2025)	25 %
Extra global output aimed by 2030	$500 bn
HSBC PMI (Mar 2024)	59.1 (16-yr high)
Decade FDI into manufacturing	$165.1 bn (↑69 %)
Per-capita manufacturing VA	$0.32k vs world $2k
R&D spend	0.7 % of GDP
Logistics cost	14–18 % of GDP
Employable workforce (India Skills 2023)	48.7 %
Ease of Doing Biz rank	63rd
China trade deficit FY24	$85 bn

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 1

Consider the following statements with respect to performance of the merchandise export of India in FY–2024:

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

The Atmanirbhar Bharat Scheme announced by the Government helps in:

GS-3Editorial

3.Rising NPAs in Microfinance Sector (Microfinance NPAs)

Financial ExpressGross NPA 16% · MFIs · Over-Leveraging

What & Where

Microfinance: small loans, savings, insurance to low-income households; core poverty-reduction tool since 1974 (SEWA Bank).

Operational spread: 28 States, 8 UTs, 730 districts; biggest portfolios Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal.

Delivery model: Joint Liability Groups enforce peer pressure for repayment; effectiveness now waning.

Quick Facts for MCQs

NPA Drivers

Economic slowdown: rural incomes hit by 6.4 % GDP, heatwaves, floods, election disruptions reduce repayment capacity
Over-leveraging: multiple MFI loans plus ₹2.71 lakh crore credit-card dues heighten household debt stress
JLG dilution: weaker group cohesion lowers social pressure, raising individual defaults

Legal & Policy

RBI: tighter lending norms and anti-over-lending caps create liquidity squeeze for MFIs
States: Tamil Nadu Money Lending Entities Act, Karnataka draft law criminalise coercive recoveries
Loan-waiver campaigns: Karja Mukti Abhiyan erodes repayment culture, boosts strategic default

Mitigation Strategies

Triad Model: Basix blend of credit, livelihood training, insurance ensures loans fund productive activity
Technology: real-time KYC, LOS/LMS via open APIs, big-data underwriting targeted at risk reduction
Collection reform: borrower engagement, income-linked repayment schedules proposed to lift recovery rates

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Gross NPA of MFIs (Mar 2025)	16 %
Gross NPA (2024)	8.8 %
Sector portfolio (Mar 2024)	₹4.08 lakh crore
FY 24 portfolio growth	16 %
GDP growth 2024-25	6.4 % (4-yr low)
Women microfinance clients 2023	6.64 crore
New women clients 2022-23	0.80 crore
Active micro-loans 2023	12.96 crore
Credit-card outstanding 2024	₹2.71 lakh crore
Top-5 states’ portfolio share	58 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements about a borrower from a Microfinance Company is NOT correct?

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 2

निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-3Economy

4.CCI Regulations on Predatory Pricing (Competition Policy)

The HinduCompetition Commission · Cost of Production Rules · Digital Markets

What & Where

Predatory pricing – selling below production cost to oust rivals; curbed under Competition Act 2002.

Determination of Cost of Production Regulations 2025 notified by CCI across India.

Target sectors: e-commerce and quick-commerce, plus any other market via case-by-case review.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Regulation2025 clarifies cost definition, boosts transparency in predatory-pricing probes.
InclusionDepreciation treats capital wear as cost; exclusionFinancing removes daily expense ambiguity.
RuleChange better suits fast-evolving digital markets, avoids one-size-fits-all norms.

Institutional Setup

CCI statutory under Competition Act 2002, promotes fair competition, protects consumers.
Powers include investigation, cease-and-desist orders, heavy monetary penalties.
FocusE-commerce quick-commerce flagged for aggressive discounting practices.

Anti-Competitive Glossary

Cartels: independent firms colluding on price/production, illegal.
PriceFixing: competitors agree uniform prices, kills market rivalry.
PriceDiscrimination: seller charges different customers different prices for identical offering.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Regulator	Competition Commission of India
New rules	Cost of Production Regulations 2025
Replaces	2009 Cost-of-Production rules
Benchmark dropped	Market value
Cost now includes	Depreciation
Cost now excludes	Financing overheads
Assessment style	Sector-agnostic, case-by-case

GS-1History

5.Dongria Kondh Indigenous Tribe (PVTG Odisha)

The HinduNiyamgiri Hills · Kui Language · Environmental Stewardship

Illustration for Dongria Kondh Indigenous Tribe (PVTG Odisha)

What & Where

Indigenous PVTG Dongria Kondh inhabit Niyamgiri hill range of Rayagada & Kalahandi districts, southwestern Odisha.

Practise podu (shifting) cultivation; internationally noted for stopping proposed bauxite mining on their sacred hills.

Speak Kui, unwritten Dravidian tongue; revere hill-deity Niyam Raja across scattered forest hamlets.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Cultural Traits

Attire vibrant; tattoos, metallic jewellery, long earring rows signal clan identity.
Folklore preserved through communal song, dance, oral epics.
Tattoos serve age, marital and spiritual markers.

Livelihood & Ecology

Podu farming rotates forest patches, maintaining soil fertility and biodiversity.
Millets and turmeric underpin food security and barter economy.
Sacred hill and streams shape eco-centric resource norms.

Legal & Policy

PVTG tag channels focused welfare funds, habitat rights under FRA & PESA.
Mining resistance became emblematic case for community consent in extractive projects.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Classification	Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group
State	Odisha
Core districts	Rayagada, Kalahandi
Hill range	Niyamgiri, Eastern Ghats
Language family	Kui – Dravidian, oral
Script status	None; occasionally Odia transliteration
Main deity	Niyam Raja
Agriculture	Podu shifting; millets, turmeric, pineapple
Distinct attire	Women multi-earrings, nose pins; men colourful turbans
Sub-groups	Kovi, Kuttia, Languli, Penga, Jharnia
Conservation feat	Successful resistance to bauxite mining

GS-1Mapping

6.Geography of DR Congo (Central Africa)

The HinduCongo River · Ruwenzori Range · Virunga Mountains

Illustration for Geography of DR Congo (Central Africa)

What & Where

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – Central African state, Africa’s 2nd-largest, with only a 40 km Atlantic coast.

Sud Kivu flash-floods: torrential rain swept Kasaba village, killing 100 + people, chiefly children and elderly.

Terrain spans Western Rift Valley mountains, elevated plateaus and vast Congo River rainforest basin.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physical Geography

Mountains: Ruwenzori, Virunga, Mitumba, Cristal dominate eastern & northern rim.
Plateaus: Ubangi-Uele (N), Katanga (SE), Angola (SW) shape interior relief.

Hydrography

Drainage: Congo River arcs through rainforest; fertile alluvial valleys aid agriculture.
Western-basin lakes: Mai-Ndombe and Tumba significant for fisheries, navigation.

Disaster Impact

Flash-floods: intense convectional rains plus steep terrain trigger lethal runoff in Sud Kivu.
Vulnerability: remote villages, weak infrastructure heighten mortality in children, elderly.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Continental position	Central Africa
Coastline length	≈ 40 km on Atlantic
African size rank	2nd after Algeria
Highest peak	Margherita Peak 5,109 m (Ruwenzori)
Major volcanic cone	Mount Nyiragongo, Virunga Range
Main river	Congo; world’s deepest, 2nd longest in Africa
River-basin area	3.46 million sq km
Key tributaries	Kasai, Aruwimi, Lomami, Ubangi
Rift-valley lakes	Tanganyika, Albert, Edward, Kivu, Mweru
Disaster province	Sud Kivu, eastern DRC
Flood death toll	100 + (mostly children, elderly)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2004PYQ 1

In which one of the following countries, did an ethnic violence between the communities of Hema and Lendu result in the death of hundreds of people?

GS-1Mapping

7.Geostrategic Passes for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (Himalayan Passes)

The HinduLipulekh Pass · Nathu La · Shipki La

What & Where

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: MEA-run pilgrimage to Mount Kailash (6,638 m) & Lake Mansarovar (4,600 m) in Tibet AR, China.

Indian access via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) or Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

Resumed 2025 after 2020-24 halt linked to Covid-19 and LAC frictions.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Routes & Terrain

Lipulekh: shortest route yet 200 km high-altitude trek across rough Himalaya terrain.
Nathu La: 1,500 km fully motorable path, among world’s highest roads, trek-free.
Silk Road: Nathu La segment revives ancient trade corridor linking Sikkim with Tibet.

Bilateral & Security

Suspension: China halted Yatra 2020 citing Covid-19 and LAC tensions.
Trade-posts: Lipulekh 1992, Shipki La 1994, Nathu La 2006 reopened for bilateral commerce.
Thaw: 2025 resumption reflects limited confidence-building in India-China ties.

Cultural & Hydrological Significance

Sacred-peak: Diamond-shaped Mount Kailash venerated by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Bons.
Source-rivers: Brahmaputra, Sutlej, Indus, Karnali originate near Kailash-Mansarovar complex.
Parikrama: 52 km circumambulation believed to absolve sins and ensure moksha.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First KMY year	1981
Organising ministry	External Affairs, India
Suspension period	2020 – 2024
Resumption year	2025
Lipulekh → Lake distance	≈50 km from border; 200 km trek
Lipulekh trade opening	1992 (first Indo-China border post)
Nathu La route length	≈1,500 km, fully motorable
Nathu La KMY opening	2015
Other trade passes	Shipki La 1994; Nathu La 2006
Mount Kailash rivers	Brahmaputra, Sutlej, Indus, Karnali
Faiths revering Kailash	Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Bons

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2007PYQ 1

Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?

CDS_GK, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Which one of the following passes is not located in Indian Himalayan region?

GS-3Editorial

8.Indigenising India’s Air Pollution Strategy (Air Quality Monitoring)

Indian ExpressNCAP · SAFAR · PM2.5 Levels

What & Where

Definition: Atmanirbhar air-pollution strategy seeks indigenous data, technology and governance to curb PM2.5 / PM10 nationwide

Processes: monitoring under NAAQMP, real-time forecasting via SAFAR, mitigation through NCAP, EV transition, R&D using Anusandhan NRF

Geography: ≥12 Indian cities in world’s 20 most polluted; only 131 of 4 000+ urban centres monitored under NCAP

Quick Facts for MCQs

Programmes & Schemes

NAAQMP 1984 provides baseline ambient monitoring across limited stations
NCAP 2019 targets 20–30 % particulate cut, funds 131 non-attainment cities
SAFAR offers city-level AQI forecasts; plan for nationwide 100-city rollout

Gaps & Challenges

Foreign dependence on satellite data, models and study leadership hampers autonomy
Funding inequity; regional labs under-resourced, PCBs return unspent allocations
City-centric controls ignore cross-district airshed pollutant transport

Atmanirbhar Roadmap

Satellites: launch indigenous polar-orbiters for continuous aerosol and climate metrics
Governance: activate NARFI, unify ESSO-IMD with CPCB into joint authority
Innovation: create state-wise R&D hubs, link exposure data with health surveillance

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Indian cities in world top-20	12+ (IQAir 2024)
Annual pollution deaths	1.6 million (Lancet 2020)
NCAP launch year	2019
NCAP reduction goal	20–30 % cut in PM2.5/PM10 by 2024
Cities covered by NCAP	131
NAAQMP start	1984
SAFAR development phase	2001-10
Proposed SAFAR expansion	100 cities
Total Indian urban centres	4 000 +
Leading EV states	Delhi, Tamil Nadu

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 1

WHO के वायु गुणवत्ता दिशानिर्देशों के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CDS_GK, GS1 2023PYQ 2

भारत के सन्दर्भ में जलवायु परिवर्तन पर राष्ट्रीय कार्य योजना (NAPCC) के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-से कथन सही है/हैं ?

GS-3Environment

9.Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone (Western Ghats Sanctuary)

Times of IndiaBhimgad Sanctuary · Eco-Sensitive Zone · Belgaum District

What & Where

Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): ≤10 km regulated buffer around protected areas, declared under Environment (Protection) Act 1986.

Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary: Western Ghats, Belgaum (Karnataka) on Goa border; notified December 2011.

Key geography: Barapede Caves, Vajrapoha Waterfalls, Mahadayi River catchment within sanctuary limits.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Mandate: MoEFCC notifies ESZs via Gazette using Environment (Protection) Rules.
Objective: Buffer limits harmful activities while allowing eco-friendly livelihoods.
Compliance: States draft site-specific ESZ proposals; Centre finalises boundaries & regulations.

Biodiversity Highlights

Avifauna: Malabar Trogon, Imperial Pigeon, Emerald Dove thrive in moist deciduous canopy.
Chiroptera: Barapede Caves host world’s only confirmed Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat breeding colony.
Endemism: Western Ghats ESZ shelters multiple IUCN-listed, range-restricted species.

Conservation Concerns

Intrusion: Unregulated tourism, vehicle influx disturb nesting and cave roosting habitats.
Fragmentation: Illegal constructions threaten corridor link to Dandeli–Anshi landscape.
Hydrology: Catchment degradation may reduce Mahadayi River flow, intensifying inter-state water stress.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
ESZ statutory basis	Environment (Protection) Act 1986
Guiding document	National Wildlife Action Plan 2002-16
ESZ prohibited activity	Commercial mining & major hydro projects
ESZ regulated activity	Tree felling; hotels/resorts construction
ESZ permitted activity	Traditional farming; renewable energy use
Bhimgad declaration year	2011
Unique mammal site	Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat breeding cave
Notable birds	Malabar Grey Hornbill; Velvet-fronted Nuthatch
Historic fort inside ESZ	17th-century Bhimgad Fort

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2014PYQ 1

With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

हाल ही के एक निर्णय में, भारत के उच्चतम न्यायालय द्वारा दिए गए निर्देश के अनुसार, देश के सभी संरक्षित वन, राष्ट्रीय उद्यान एवं वन्यजीव अभयारण्यों में कम-से-कम कितना अनिवार्य पारिस्थितिक संवेदनशील क्षेत्र (इको-सेंसिटिव जोन – ESZ) होगा?

GS-3Species

10.Record Longest Banana Infructescence (Wild Banana)

The HinduMusa indandamanensis · Andaman Nicobar · Infructescence

Illustration for Record Longest Banana Infructescence (Wild Banana)

What & Where

Infructescence: complete fruiting part; world-record 4.2 m found.

Species: Musa indandamanensis, wild banana endemic to Andaman–Nicobar Islands.

Site: Campbell Bay, Nicobar group; specimens housed Indian Museum Kolkata & botanic gardens.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conservation Status

Assessment: Critically Endangered under latest IUCN criteria.
Protection: Ex-situ stocks in A.J.C. Bose Garden, regional botanic centres.
Priority: Record emphasises need for in-situ habitat safeguarding.

Botanical Traits

Stem: height 11 m; girth 110 cm; robust pseudostem.
Infructescence: pendant, 4.2 m; surpasses earlier 3 m record.
Distribution: strictly Campbell Bay moist tropical forest.

Agricultural Potential

Gene-pool: offers resistance against major banana pathogens.
Breeding: source material for high-yield, climate-resilient cultivars.
Research: museum and garden collections enable germplasm exchange.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Species name	Musa indandamanensis
Record infructescence	4.2 m (longest globally)
Previous max length	3 m
Tree height	≈11 m
Stem girth	≈110 cm
Endemism	Andaman & Nicobar Islands
IUCN status	Critically Endangered
Ex-situ conservation	A.J.C. Bose Indian Botanic Garden + regional centres
Display location	Indian Museum, Kolkata
Breeding value	Disease-resistant, high-yield banana genes

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

11.Saola Genome Mapping for Conservation (Critically Endangered)

Down to EarthPseudoryx nghetinhensis · Annamite Range · Asian Unicorn

Illustration for Saola Genome Mapping for Conservation (Critically Endangered)

What & Where

Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis) = rarest large bovid, dubbed “Asian unicorn,” long parallel horns in both sexes

Endemic to mist-shrouded evergreen forests of Annamite Range along Vietnam–Laos border

Genome mapping reveals two distinct populations split 5 k–20 k yrs ago amid post-glacial habitat shifts

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conservation Status

IUCN Critically Endangered due to rapid decline, maybe a few hundred individuals left
No viable captive population; survival hinges on in-situ protection

Genetic Insights

Genome mapping clarifies evolutionary split into northern & southern lines 5 k–20 k yrs ago
Post-glacial forest fragmentation and later agriculture intensified isolation

Ecology & Behaviour

Diurnal folivore browsing on understory plants in steep, humid terrain
Males territorial; secretions rubbed on rocks & vegetation mark range

Threat Drivers

Habitat loss from logging, roads, shifting cultivation across Annamites
Widespread wire snares indiscriminately trap saola alongside other wildlife

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Common name	Asian unicorn
IUCN listing	Critically Endangered
Taxonomic family	Bovidae
Activity cycle	Diurnal
Diet type	Folivore herbivore
Typical group size	Solitary or 2–3
Territory marking	Maxillary-gland secretions
Gestation length	7–8 months
Wild lifespan	8–11 years
Key threat	Indiscriminate snaring

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

GS-3S&T

12.LICONN Nanoscale Brain Mapping Technique (Neuroscience Imaging)

The HinduLICONN · Hydrogel Expansion · Light Microscopy

Illustration for LICONN Nanoscale Brain Mapping Technique (Neuroscience Imaging)

What & Where

LICONN = Light-Microscopy-Based Connectomics technique for synapse-level brain mapping

Integrates hydrogel tissue expansion, fluorescent protein staining, AI segmentation

Developed by neuroscience teams; deployable in standard light-microscopy labs worldwide

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology & Process

Hydrogel expansion physically enlarges tissue while preserving topology
Fluorescent tagging highlights specific proteins for optical read-out
Deep-learning segmentation automates neuron and synapse identification

Advantages

Cost-effective alternative to electron microscopy using common optics
Multiplex protein staining combines structural and molecular data in one run
Scalable workflow allows iterative expansion for larger brain volumes

Research Applications

Brain disorder analysis for Alzheimer’s, autism circuit alterations
Drug development screens compounds for synaptic pathway effects
Memory and learning studies gain detailed connectivity datasets

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Full form	Light-Microscopy-Based Connectomics
Tissue expansion factor	Up to 16 times
Achieved resolution	Nanoscale with diffraction-limited light microscope
Core components	Hydrogel expansion + fluorescent tagging + deep-learning segmentation
Previous gold standard	Electron microscopy for comparable resolution
Key use case	Synapse-level connectome mapping

GS-3S&T

13.Asteroid 2024 YR4 Impact Assessment (Near-Earth Asteroid)

The HinduATLAS Telescope · Moon Impact Probability · NASA Alert

Illustration for Asteroid 2024 YR4 Impact Assessment (Near-Earth Asteroid)

What & Where

Definition: Near-Earth asteroid 2024 YR4; Apollo-type whose perihelion lies inside 1.3 AU

Location: Crosses Earth–Moon neighbourhood; next close-approach window 22 Dec 2032

Size: ~65 m diameter, roughly a 10-storey building

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physical Characteristics

Composition unknown; size estimate from brightness and assumed albedo
Velocity at lunar impact projected ~11 km/s, typical for Moon encounters
Crater expectation 0.5–2 km diameter, several hundred metres deep

Risk Assessment

Earth threat now removed from Sentry list, risk scale essentially zero
Moon strike chance 3.8 %, 96.2 % miss probability after latest orbit refinement
Uncertainties driven by limited early observation arc, improving with follow-up

Planetary Defense

Detection: Automated ATLAS survey flagged YR4 within days of discovery
Alerting: Triggered NASA’s highest-ever Palermo score for a 65 m object
Preparedness: Case underscores need for continuous NEO tracking and deflection tech

Observation Opportunities

Lunar impact flash could be captured by Chandrayaan-2, LRO, future Artemis assets
Impact ejecta may expose subsurface lunar material, aiding geological studies
Event would create real-time testbed for impact models and defense readiness drills

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Discovery date	Dec 2024
Discovering telescope	ATLAS, Chile
Orbit class	Apollo NEO
Mean diameter	~65 m
Initial Earth impact risk (Feb 2025)	3.1 %
Updated Earth impact risk	Negligible
Moon impact probability 2032	3.8 %
Potential lunar crater	0.5–2 km wide
Energy vs Hiroshima	~340 ×
Highest NASA alert level	Record high in Feb 2025

GS-3S&T

14.Semaglutide Treats Metabolic Fatty Liver (GLP-1 Agonist)

Indian ExpressSemaglutide · MASH · GLP-1 Receptor

What & Where

Semaglutide – injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist for type-2 diabetes & obesity; new trial shows benefit in MASH.

Fatty liver disease classes – MASLD/NAFLD (non-alcoholic) and AFLD; alcohol cutoff 40 g men, 20 g women.

India prevalence MASLD 9–32 %; progression NAFL → MASH → Fibrosis → Cirrhosis.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Drug Profile

Brands Ozempic (diabetes) & Wegovy (weight loss); once-weekly subcutaneous 0.25–2 mg.
GLP-1 agonists induce 10-15 % weight loss aiding liver fat reduction.

Disease Spectrum

MASLD linked with obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome; asymptomatic until advanced.
Inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis gradually impair hepatocyte function and portal blood flow.

Treatment Pipeline

Lifestyle intervention primary; target ≥7 % weight reduction for histologic improvement.
Investigational agents include Resmetirom, FGF-21 analogues and dual agonist Tirzepatide.

Health Schemes

Eat Right Mela, Eat Right Station, Unified India Organic promote safe, balanced diets.
Fit India Movement, Mission Poshan 2.0, Poshan Vatikas encourage activity & nutrition to curb metabolic diseases.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Drug mechanism	Mimics GLP-1, ↑insulin, ↓glucagon, slows gastric emptying
Common side-effects	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain
Contraindicated in	Medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN-2 history
Liver fat unhealthy threshold	>5 % hepatocytes contain triglycerides
AFLD alcohol cutoff	≥40 g/day males; ≥20 g/day females
MASH progression risk	~25 % advance to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma

GS-2Editorial

15.Impact of Foreign Aid Suspension on India (USAID Freeze)

The HinduUSAID · Humanitarian Aid · Development Assistance

Illustration for Impact of Foreign Aid Suspension on India (USAID Freeze)

What & Where

USAID = 1961 US independent agency delivering civilian foreign aid; works in > 100 nations across health, economy, governance.

2025: White House orders 90-day freeze on all USAID disbursements worldwide.

India engaged since 1951; 2023-24 portfolio USD 750 mn across WASH, agri, renewables, disaster relief, health.

Quick Facts for MCQs

USAID in India

Agriculture Feed the Future raised smallholder yields, promoted climate-resilient farming.
Forest-PLUS 3.0 with MoEFCC supports COP-26 goals via restoration, livelihood support.
Education Padhe Bharat trained 61 000 teachers, improved early-grade literacy.

Freeze Impact

Health slowdown; pandemic recovery, disease surveillance risk without USD 79 mn flow.
Economic initiatives lose USD 34.4 mn flexible poverty funds hampering livelihoods.
NGO staffing, innovation, watchdog functions weakened through funding uncertainty.

India’s Aid Trajectory

1950s-60s heavy ODA dependence; post-1970s self-reliance, Green Revolution reduced aid share.
Post-1991 FDI CAGR 24.28 %; inflows risen 165×, overshadowing concessional aid.
2025 budget allocates Rs 6,750 cr as donor, signalling recipient-to-donor transition.

Regulatory & Security Dimension

FCRA 1976, tightened 2020, curbs suspected foreign influence in protests, separatism.
Sovereignty concern; donors may push patent, subsidy, environment reforms conflicting with domestic priorities.
Transparency need; CAG audits, public dashboards proposed for real-time aid tracking.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
USAID share of 2024 UN-tracked humanitarian aid	42 %
Flagship health programme	PEPFAR (HIV)
USAID health allocation to India 2024	USD 79.3 mn
2023-24 USAID projects in India	7 projects; USD 750 mn
People gaining toilets via Swachh Bharat tie-up	3 lakh
USAID founding year	1961

GS-2Editorial

16.Deepening India–West Asia Strategic Relations (Link West Policy)

Hindustan TimesUAE · Saudi Arabia · Energy Security

What & Where

West Asia: sub-region west of Central/South Asia, south of Eastern Europe, north of Africa; bounded by Mediterranean, Red Sea, Persian Gulf, Caspian & Gulf of Oman.

Composition: 18 countries across Arabian Peninsula, Fertile Crescent, Caucasus, Anatolia; collective population ≈283 million.

Policy lens: India’s 2005 Look/Link West treats area as extended neighbourhood for energy, trade, security, diaspora.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Energy & Trade

Dependence: Oil-centric Indian economy intertwined with Saudi, UAE, Iraq supply lines.
Agreements: UAE CEPA 2022 boosts merchandise flow, tariff cuts.
Diversification push: India pursuing renewables, yet maintaining hydrocarbon contracts for transition phase.

Connectivity & Security

Corridor focus: IMEEC counters China BRI, links Mumbai to Europe via Gulf.
Port leverage: Chabahar anchors INSTC to Central Asia, Russia.
Threat monitor: Houthi drone attacks, Red Sea crisis highlight tanker vulnerability.

Diaspora & Soft Power

Workforce: Indian migrants dominate Gulf construction, healthcare, IT sectors.
Cultural symbol: BAPS Abu Dhabi first traditional Hindu stone temple Middle East.
Soft tools: IPL matches, media co-productions nurture goodwill.

Geopolitical Challenges

Balancing act: Parallel ties with Israel, Palestine, Iran, Saudi demand calibrated neutrality.
China factor: PRC investments in Jebel Ali, Duqm ports amplify regional contestation.
Limited share: Despite proximity, West Asia only 7.5 % of India’s trade basket.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Indian crude sourced	~50 % from West Asia
Global oil share	>50 % located here
Global natural gas share	>40 % located here
Indian expats in region	>9 million persons
Remittances to India 2021	USD 87 billion (majorly GCC)
India–West Asia trade 2019	7.5 % of India’s total
UAE trade rank	3rd largest partner
Saudi trade rank	4th largest partner
Iraq trade rank 2021-22	5th largest partner
Qatar gas supply share	41 % of Indian LNG imports
Look West launch year	2005
Saudi Strategic Partnership Council	Set up 2019
Key chokepoints	Strait of Hormuz; Bab el-Mandeb
Major corridors	IMEEC; INSTC via Chabahar
Gulf Indian military drills	Desert Cyclone (UAE); Naseem Al Bahr (Oman)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2017PYQ 1

भारत द्वारा चाबहार बंदरगाह विकसित करने का क्या महत्त्व है ?

GS1, NDA_GAT 2020PYQ 2

'Naseem-Al-Bahr' is a bilateral naval exercise between India and

GS-2Polity

17.International Law on Self-Defence (UN Charter Article 51)

Times of IndiaNecessity Principle · Proportionality · Security Council Reporting

What & Where

Right to Self-Defence: Article 51 UN Charter, permits force after armed attack, global applicability.

‘Unwilling or Unable’ Doctrine: contested rule letting states hit non-state actors inside another state failing to act.

Context: India’s precision strikes post-Pahalgam (J&K) terror attack; subsequent India-Pakistan halt in hostilities.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Necessity test: no peaceful means available before force.
Proportionality test: response scale/time must match attack.
Lacks widespread state practice; majority still favour strict sovereignty.

International Examples

US Operation Neptune Spear (Abbottabad) cited ‘unwilling/unable’.
US-led anti-IS strikes in Syria 2014 invoked same rationale.
India’s 2024 precision strikes mirrored doctrine yet reported ceasefire quickly.

Security Dimension

Doctrine targets safe havens, cross-border camps of terror groups.
Critics warn erosion of territorial integrity & UN collective-security primacy.
India-Pakistan de-escalation shows diplomatic channels still vital post-force.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
UN Charter provision	Article 51
Overrides	Article 2(4) force prohibition
Mandatory criteria	Necessity & proportionality
Post-strike duty	Immediate UNSC notification
ICJ 1986 (Nicaragua)	Self-defence only vs state-linked attacks
‘Unwilling/Unable’ legal status	Not customary international law
Needs state attribution?	No; targets non-state actors
Principal champion	United States
Notable US uses	2011 bin Laden raid, 2014 IS strikes
Chief opponents	China, Russia, Mexico

GS-3Security

18.BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Overview (Cruise Missile)

Indian ExpressBrahMos Aerospace · Mach 3 Speed · Ramjet Engine

Illustration for BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Overview (Cruise Missile)

What & Where

BrahMos = India-Russia supersonic cruise missile JV (DRDO 50.5 %, NPO Mashinostroyenia 49.5 %) inked 1998.

First combat use reported in Operation Sindoor targeting Pakistani military sites.

Deployable from land, sea, air, submarine; Indian Navy induction 2005, IAF Sukhoi-30MKI carriage 2017.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technical Specs

Two-stage architecture delivers sustained Mach-3, terrain-hugging profile.
Low RCS grants stealth passage through enemy radar nets.
Fire-and-forget guidance allows zero post-launch operator input.

Platform Variants

Ship-based vertical/inclined launch; static or mobile decks; inducted 2005.
Land mobile autonomous launchers, Blocks I–III, positioned along borders.
Air-launched ALCM on Sukhoi-30MKI extends deterrence across Indian Ocean.

Future Developments

Range extension programmes aimed beyond 800 km mark.
BrahMos-NG: smaller, lighter, enhanced stealth, torpedo-tube compatibility.
Upgraded ECCM features to survive dense electronic warfare.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Speed	up to Mach 3
Original range	290 km
Upgraded range	350–400 km
Planned future range	800 + km
Propulsion	Solid-fuel booster + liquid-fuel ramjet
Missile stages	Two
Guidance	Fire-and-forget, inertial + GPS/GLONASS
Terminal altitude	~10 m above target
Radar cross-section	Low; compact airframe
Kinetic energy vs subsonic	~9×
Salvo capacity (ship)	up to 8 missiles
Sub-launch depth tested	50 m
Air-launch first test	Nov 2017
Stand-off nature	Launch without entering hostile airspace

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2022PYQ 1

With reference to BrahMos missile, consider the following statements:

CDS_GK 2025PYQ 2

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

GS-2Scheme

19.Niveshak Shivir Investor Outreach Initiative (IEPFA-SEBI)

PIBUnclaimed Dividends · Form IEPF-5 · Investor Helpdesk

What & Where

Program Niveshak Shivir is nationwide investor-outreach to reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares

Implementing bodies IEPFA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) with SEBI; mix of on-ground camps and digital tools

Geography Pan-India Helpdesks connect investors, company officials and Registrars & Transfer Agents

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Investor Helpdesks enable face-to-face grievance redressal with company and RTA officials
Digital Search Tool locates shares, auto-populates Form IEPF-5, tracks claim status
Guidance covers demat and physical holdings, simplifying transmission and name-mismatch issues

Legal & Policy

IEPFA is statutory body under Section 125, Companies Act 2013; rules governed by IEPF Rules 2016
Companies transfer unclaimed amounts after 7 years; shareholders retain perpetual refund right
SEBI tie-up aligns with Investor Charter, strengthening grievance timelines and transparency norms

Economic Angle

Initiative cuts intermediary costs, unlocking idle investor wealth into active market circulation
Faster refund cycle expected to boost retail confidence and market participation
Financial-literacy camps teach demat conversion, nomination compliance and cyber-fraud safeguards

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Initiative name	Niveshak Shivir
Initiative type	Investor assistance & outreach
Lead authority	Investor Education & Protection Fund Authority
Collaborating regulator	SEBI
Parent ministry	Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Statutory anchor of IEPFA	Section 125, Companies Act 2013
Claim form number	IEPF-5
Primary assets covered	Unclaimed dividends, matured deposits, shares
Key service portal	IEPFA Digital Search Tool
On-ground facility	Investor Helpdesks in camps

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

To increase transparency and consumer awareness and handle customer complaints, a 'Centralised Receipt and Processing Centre' and an 'Integrated Ombudsman Scheme' have been set up. These two schemes are related to which one of the following institutions?

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