Saturday, 24 May 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: नीति (NITI) आयोग के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-कौन-सा कथन सही है?

The correct answer is (d) न तो 1, न ही 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025.

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

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

Q: 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?

The correct answer is (a) NITI Aayog. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2024.

Q: With reference to the Consumer Disputes Redressal at district level in India, which one of the following statements is not correct?

The correct answer is (a) A State Government can establish more than one District Forum in a district if it deems fit. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2010.

Q: The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has recently approved the inclusion of four indigenous games to be part of Khelo India Youth Games 2021. Which one of the following is NOT included ?

The correct answer is (a) Thang-Ta. This question appeared in ESE_GS 2021.

Q: Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period?

The correct answer is (a) Saumilla. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 1996.

Q: When did Charaka Samhita originate?

The correct answer is (b) 3rd to 2nd Century BCE. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2022.

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

The correct answer is (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: Consider the following statements about INS Sagardhwani:

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2024.

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

The correct answer is (d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2015.

16 topicsGS-1: 4GS-2: 7GS-3: 5

0/16 done

GS-2Polity

1.NITI Aayog Governing Council Meet (Cooperative Federalism)

PIBViksit Bharat 2047 · Prime Minister Chair · Chief Ministers

Illustration for NITI Aayog Governing Council Meet (Cooperative Federalism)

What & Where

Governing Council of NITI Aayog: apex policy forum uniting Centre–States for national development.

Key process: cooperative federalism through collective policy framing, progress review, decentralised planning.

10th meeting venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi; theme ‘Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat @ 2047’.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Composition & Membership

Categories: Ex-officio Union Ministers; Permanent CMs of States & UTs with legislature; LGs of UTs.
Additional seats: Vice Chairperson, full-time NITI members, nominated special invitees.
Structure ensures horizontal and vertical cooperative federalism.

Mandate & Functions

Coordination: inter-sectoral, inter-departmental issues affecting multiple States.
Oversight: monitor flagship initiatives including Viksit Bharat @ 2047 strategy.
Support: evidence-based policymaking, competitive federalism incentives.

10th Meeting Focus

Objective: strengthen Centre-State cooperation for developed India by 2047 milestone.
Agenda: review progress, align new State development blueprints with national vision.
Platform: Bharat Mandapam chosen for larger capacity and national-level symbolism.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Establishment of NITI Aayog	1 Jan 2015
HQ of NITI Aayog	New Delhi
Governing Council Chairperson	Prime Minister of India
Other Council Members	CMs, LGs of UTs, Union Ministers, VC, full-time members
10th Meeting Theme	Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat @ 2047
10th Meeting Venue	Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
Core Governing Council role	Align State visions with national goals
Key NITI Vision Document	Strategy for New India @ 75

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

नीति (NITI) आयोग के बारे में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा/कौन-कौन-सा कथन सही है?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 2

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

GS-2Polity

2.SC Seeks Permanent Consumer Forums (Consumer Protection)

Business StandardConsumer Protection Act · NCDRC Pendency · Adjudicatory Bodies

What & Where

Permanent consumer dispute redressal bodies: full-time, judge-led tribunals replacing ad-hoc forums under Consumer Protection Acts.

Multi-tier structure: National, State, District Commissions + mediation cells; jurisdiction over all goods, services, digital transactions.

All-India coverage; Supreme Court directive to Union Government for statutory establishment.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Directive Principles (Art 37, 47) give moral base to CPA; rights deemed constitutionally protected.
SC suggests permanent tribunals headed by sitting judges plus expert members.
CPA 2019 adds product liability, e-commerce rules, Central Consumer Protection Authority.

Administrative Gaps

5.5 lakh case backlog; frequent vacancies, weak digital infra stall disposal.
Temporary appointments cited for delays; 2nd ARC earlier sought independent consumer body.
Need higher funding, Mission Karmayogi training for enforcement officers.

Digital Economy Challenges

Surge in online fraud, data breaches, cross-border disputes strains traditional forums.
SC notes lack of tech expertise, jurisdiction clarity for e-commerce grievances.
Proposed bodies to include specialists in cyber, fintech, cross-border law.

Awareness & Outreach

DoCA’s “Jago Grahak Jago”, mascot “Jagriti”, National Helpline 1915 spread rights literacy.
E-Dakhil, AI-based E-Jagriti portal enable online filing, monitoring, virtual hearings.
Dr T.K. Viswanathan panel pushes ADR, arbitration to decongest courts.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Pending consumer cases (2023)	≈ 5.5 lakh
E-commerce market size 2026	USD 200 billion
Quick-commerce size 2029	USD 9.9 billion
Core Acts years	CPA 1986, CPA 2019
Statutory consumer rights (1986 Act)	Six

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 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?

ESE_GS, GS1 2010PYQ 2

With reference to the Consumer Disputes Redressal at district level in India, which one of the following statements is not correct?

GS-1History

3.Mallakhamb Traditional Sport (Traditional Sport)

ANIWrestling Pole · Chandraketugarh · Manasollasa

Illustration for Mallakhamb Traditional Sport (Traditional Sport)

What & Where

Definition Ancient Indian sport where athletes execute yoga-gymnastic moves on vertical wooden pole or rope

Locale First ever beach edition at Khelo India Beach Games 2025 in Diu Gujarat

Key types Pole Mallakhamb, Rope Mallakhamb, Hanging Mallakhamb

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Revival

Maratha era patronage by Peshwa court plus practice by Rani Lakshmibai and Tantia Tope
Colonial decline followed by 20th cent competitive codification and global demos
Inclusion in national championships from 1958 marking formal sports status

Game Structure

Variants Pole fixed upright, Rope hanging free, Hanging pole suspended from ceiling
Elements Include inversions locks balances dynamic transitions merging yoga wrestling gymnastics
Equipment Smoothed sheesham pole approx 2.6 m high and 35–40 cm circumference

Institutional Milestones

Federation establishment 1981 standardised rules coaching accreditation
Featured discipline in Khelo India Youth Games since 2022 boosting grassroots reach
Beach Games 2025 introduction aligns with efforts to globalise traditional sports

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Literal meaning	Wrestling pole
Earliest visual evidence	Chandraketugarh pottery 1st–2nd cent BCE
Earliest text mention	Manasollasa 12th cent by Someshvara III
Maratha revivalist	Balambhatta Dada Deodhar 18th cent
Berlin Olympics demo	1936
Standalone sport status	1962 National Gymnastics Meet Gwalior
Apex body	Mallakhamb Federation of India 1981
Khelo India Youth debut	2022
Core wood used	Sheesham for pole
Major benefits	Agility strength flexibility neuromuscular coordination

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2021PYQ 1

The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has recently approved the inclusion of four indigenous games to be part of Khelo India Youth Games 2021. Which one of the following is NOT included ?

GS-1History

4.Charaka and Sushruta Legacy (Ancient Medicine)

ANICharaka Samhita · Ashtanga Ayurveda · Doshas

Illustration for Charaka and Sushruta Legacy (Ancient Medicine)

What & Where

Charaka : Father of Indian Medicine; practised in Taxila under Kushan king Kanishka

Sushruta : Father of Surgery; worked in Kashi under King Divodasa

Statues of both legends unveiled at Raj Bhavan, Goa to highlight India’s ancient medical heritage

Quick Facts for MCQs

Foundational Texts

Charaka Samhita details Ashtanga Ayurveda, disease pathology, Garbha Vigyan
Sushruta Samhita oldest surgical treatise, cornerstone of Bruhat Trayi
Arabic, later European translations spread Indic medical knowledge abroad

Medical Concepts

Dosha theory : Vata, Pitta, Kapha guide diagnosis and therapy
Garbha Vigyan offers embryology stages matching modern observations
Kaumarbhritya codifies neonatal rituals, child-health therapeutics

Surgical Innovations

Catalogue : 300 + operations, 100 + tools including scalpels, forceps, syringes
Rhinoplasty technique made India global hub for nasal reconstruction
Dissection-based anatomy, anaesthesia use, fracture–dislocation classification pioneered

Ethics & Education

Physician duties : confidentiality, non-maleficence, patient welfare highlighted by Charaka
Stepwise surgical training : simulation, animal study, human dissection ensured competence
Lifestyle, environment harmony prescribed for preventive public health

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Charaka period	c. 100 BCE – 200 CE
Charaka text	Charaka Samhita (Kayachikitsa)
Charaka focus	Internal medicine, preventive health
Sushruta period	c. 600 BCE
Sushruta text	Sushruta Samhita
Surgical procedures listed	300 +
Surgical instruments listed	100 +
Signature surgery	Rhinoplasty (nasal reconstruction)
Classical triad	Charaka, Sushruta Samhitas + Ashtanga Hridaya
Global link	Arabic Kitab-i-Susrud translation
Statue location	Raj Bhavan, Goa

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 1996PYQ 1

Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period?

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

When did Charaka Samhita originate?

GS-1Mapping

5.Sudan Location and Features (Sudan Mapping)

DD NewsKhartoum · Blue & White Nile · Sahel–Sahara

What & Where

Sudan located in Northeastern Africa straddling Sahara–Sahel; capital Khartoum at Blue and White Nile confluence

2023–present civil war pits Sudanese Army against Rapid Support Forces RSF causing large scale displacement

United States imposed 2024 sanctions after alleged chlorine based chemical weapon use by Sudanese government

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Conflict ongoing since April 2023 between Sudanese Army and RSF paramilitary
Sanctions target chemical attacks plus genocide and border violence allegations
RSF controls parts of Khartoum, Darfur; frontlines fluid and urban

Physical Geography

Desert dominance in north with Sahara ergs and rocky hamada
Fertile alluvial plains along Nile and cracking clay in Gezira region
Relief includes Marrah Mountains west, Red Sea Hills east, Nuba Mountains south central

Humanitarian Impact

War displaced about 13 million people internally and internationally
Ethnic violence and famine conditions deepening across Darfur and Kordofan
Chemical agent usage increases civilian casualties and global attention

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital	Khartoum
Region	Northeastern Africa
Sanctioning country	United States
Sanction year	2024
Alleged weapon	Chlorine based chemical agents
Main river system	White Nile meets Blue Nile at Khartoum
Key mountains	Marrah west, Red Sea Hills east, Nuba south central
Bordering nations	Egypt, Red Sea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, CAR, Chad, Libya

GS-3Environment

6.Overfishing in Indian Seas (Marine Biodiversity)

The HinduFAO Data · IUU Fishing · Trawling Bycatch

Illustration for Overfishing in Indian Seas (Marine Biodiversity)

What & Where

Overfishing – removal of fish faster than natural regeneration; drives stock collapse and ecosystem imbalance.

Process drivers – mechanised trawling, small-mesh (<25 mm) nets, IUU fishing, fuel-subsidised overcapacity.

Indian marine belt – 3–4 mt annual catch but small-scale fishers (90 %) secure only 10 % output; 75 % live BPL.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Causes

Overcapacity; mechanised fleet targets same grounds intensively.
Harmful subsidies; cheap diesel & trawler credit maintain unviable effort.
Fragmented laws; separate state MFRA enables regulatory evasion.

Environmental Impact

Habitat loss; bottom trawling rips reefs, sediment clouds nurseries.
Trophic imbalance; sardine & mackerel crashes mirror Canada 1992 cod collapse.
Dead zones; discards decay, de-oxygenate coastal waters.

Livelihood Angle

Debt spiral; high fuel costs + low landings trap small fishers.
Protein risk; coastal communities rely on fish as main animal protein.
FMFO diversion; edible fish diverted to feed mills reduces local availability.

Governance & Solutions

Quota management; New Zealand-style QMS proposed for trawl fleet.
Uniform framework; single national code on gear, closed seasons, MLS.
Co-management; empower cooperatives to run MPAs, enforce juvenile release.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global overexploited stocks	One-third (FAO)
Illegal fishing value	US $ 36.4 bn yr⁻¹
India marine harvest	3–4 million tonnes yr⁻¹
Small-scale fisher share	90 % fishers; 10 % catch
Poverty among fishers	75 % below poverty line
Shrimp trawl bycatch	10 kg bycatch : 1 kg shrimp
Destructive mesh threshold	< 25 mm
Sharks–rays–turtles status	One-third species risk extinction
Kerala MLS result	Threadfin bream catch ↑ 41 % in one season

GS-3Species

7.World Turtle Day Significance (Turtle Conservation)

Times of IndiaTestudines · Ectothermic · Freshwater vs Marine

What & Where

Definition : Reptiles (Order Testudines) with rib-derived, non-detachable shell; ectothermic, slow-metabolising egg-layers.

Key types : Sea turtles (6 global, 5 Indian) & freshwater/terrestrial tortoises (30 Indian freshwater).

Core geography: Highest Indian diversity in Assam, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh; UP also hosts 30 km Ganga turtle sanctuary.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Threats & Pressures

Habitat-loss, climate change, plastic ingestion impair nesting & survival.
Illegal trade for meat, pets, medicine; UP–WB corridors spotlighted in WCCB Operation Kurma.

Legal & Policy

Wildlife Protection Act 1972: All 5 sea species + 26 freshwater in Schedule I, highest safeguard.
CITES & IUCN listings reinforce international trade bans and red-list attention.

Conservation Initiatives

UP Forest Dept seizures, awareness drives aligned with Operation Kurma intelligence.
Protected river stretches: 30 km Ganga sanctuary, Etawah Chambal centre boost in-situ conservation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
World Turtle Day	23 May (since 2000)
Indian freshwater species	30; 26 under WPA Schedule I
Indian sea species	5 (Olive Ridley, Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Leatherback)
IUCN status – Olive Ridley/Loggerhead/Leatherback	Vulnerable
IUCN status – Green Turtle	Endangered
IUCN status – Hawksbill	Critically Endangered
High-diversity states	Assam, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh
Major trafficking hotspots	Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal
UP turtle centres	Kukrail, Sarnath, Chambal, Prayagraj sanctuary (30 km)
New facility	Turtle Conservation & Research Centre, Pilibhit TR (CAMPA-funded)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

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-3S&T

8.National Centre for Polar Research (Polar Research)

DD NewsNCPOR Goa · Ministry Earth Sciences · Maitri & Bharati

What & Where

NCPOR; apex Indian R&D body on polar-ocean science.

Coordinates Antarctic, Arctic, Southern Ocean expeditions & logistics.

Located in Vasco da Gama, Goa; under Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Infrastructure

Polar Bhavan hosts visualization sphere, labs, 300-bed accommodation.
Sagar Bhavan maintains ice-core storage, contamination-free class-1000 rooms.
NCPOR operates research vessel, drill rigs, polar equipment depots.

Research & Operations

Exploration focuses on EEZ geoscience, gas hydrates, SMS metal sulphides.
Annual expeditions supply and rotate scientists across three polar regions.
Climate modelling and ice-core studies target monsoon-cryosphere links.

Data & Outreach

Antarctic Data Centre archives mission records, bathymetry, meteorology.
Upcoming Polar & Ocean Museum to showcase Indian polar history.
Public outreach via Science on Sphere interactive displays.

International Linkages

Participates in Arctic Council science meetings, Southern Ocean networks.
Collaborates on global climate monitoring, remote sensing calibration.
Engages in polar policy dialogues for environment and resource governance.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Establishment date	25 May 1998
Original name	National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research
Current name	National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research
Parent ministry	Ministry of Earth Sciences
Headquarters	Vasco da Gama, Goa
Flagship Antarctic stations	Maitri, Bharati
Indian Arctic station	Himadri
Newly inaugurated blocks	Polar Bhavan; Sagar Bhavan
Polar Bhavan floor area	11,378 sq m
Sagar Bhavan key labs	Ultra-low temp; Class-1000 clean rooms
Data facility	India’s Antarctic Data Centre
Research vessel managed	ORV Sagar Kanya
Anniversary marked	25th year
Planned museum	First Polar & Ocean Museum
Climate tool housed	Science on Sphere

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 1

Consider the following statements about INS Sagardhwani:

GS1, NDA_GAT 2015PYQ 2

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

GS-3S&T

9.World Hydrogen Summit Highlights (Green Hydrogen)

PIBRotterdam · National GH2 Mission · 5 Mt Target

Illustration for World Hydrogen Summit Highlights (Green Hydrogen)

What & Where

Green hydrogen: water electrolysis using renewable power or biomass gasification

Hydrogen palette: grey from fossil fuel, blue with CCS, green via renewables

Core event & locus: World Hydrogen Summit 2025, Rotterdam; India targets global production hub

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Mission focus: domestic electrolyser capacity, cost reduction, 5 Mt annual green hydrogen target by 2030
Certification: GHCI ensures transparent emission accounting, market credibility

Regulatory Facilitation

Clearance relief: GH2 and Green Ammonia projects skip mandatory Environmental Clearance accelerating execution
Port hubs: MoPSW earmarked Kandla Paradip Tuticorin for production bunkering export activities
Production feedstock: waste biomass pathway incentivised adding rural income streams

International Collaboration

Bilateral ties: Japan Australia UAE engaged for technology transfer financing long-term offtake agreements
Global showcase: Rotterdam Summit 2025 platform for Indian investment pitches policy visibility

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Target GH2 capacity	5 million tonnes per year by 2030
Mission timeline	Phase I 2022-23→2025-26; Phase II 2026-27→2029-30
Certification scheme	GHCI verified by BEE-accredited ACV agency
Clearance status	GH2 & Green Ammonia plants exempt from EIA
Designated GH2 ports	Kandla, Paradip, Tuticorin
Key applications	FCEVs, fertilizers, refineries, road & rail transport

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Which of the statements given below is/are correct?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following heavy industries:

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

10.Weather Balloons Atmospheric Data (Meteorology Tools)

Indian ExpressRadiosonde · Helium · Tropopause Discovery

Illustration for Weather Balloons Atmospheric Data (Meteorology Tools)

What & Where

Weather balloons: large latex envelopes filled with helium/hydrogen, loft battery-powered radiosonde for upper-air observation (>5,000 ft).

Climb ~35 km (1,15,000 ft) in ≈2 hrs, mapping vertical temperature, pressure, humidity, wind; discovered tropopause & stratosphere.

Global network (>900 sites) launches twice daily; India’s hub — National Balloon Facility, Hyderabad; recent US budget cuts reduce launches.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Specs

Radiosonde transmits real-time temp, pressure, humidity, GPS wind data to ground via radio.
Modern sondes lighter, energy-efficient, still balloon-borne despite satellite advances.
Vertical profiles complement satellites, improving numerical weather prediction accuracy.

Operational Network

WMO standard: twice-daily launches provide uniform global upper-air data for models.
US budget cuts trimming flights may degrade forecast skill, spark international concern.
Data voids over oceans/deserts partially filled by aircraft, buoys, but balloons remain core.

Indian Setup

1960s TIFR-ISRO National Balloon Facility enables high-altitude atmospheric & space experiments.
IMD integrates balloon, radar, satellite feeds for cyclone, monsoon forecasting.
Indigenization drive targets reusable, cost-effective radiosonde production under Make-in-India.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First pioneer	Léon Teisserenc de Bort (1896)
Layers identified	Tropopause, Stratosphere
Lifting gas	Helium or Hydrogen
Payload	Radiosonde suspended 66 ft below
Peak altitude	≈35 km (1,15,000 ft)
Typical ascent time	~2 hours
Launch frequency	00 UTC & 12 UTC daily
Global stations	>900
Indian launch agency	IMD; R&D by TIFR-ISRO
Key Indian site	National Balloon Facility, Hyderabad

GS-2Economy

11.New Development Bank Expansion (BRICS Bank)

LiveMintAlgeria Membership · Shanghai HQ · 2015 Establishment

Illustration for New Development Bank Expansion (BRICS Bank)

What & Where

Multilateral lender created by BRICS (2015) to fund infrastructure & sustainability in developing economies.

Headquarters: Shanghai; regional offices in South Africa & Brazil.

Membership worldwide, but BRICS must retain ≥55 % shareholding.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Governance & Capital

Structure: Board of Governors (BRICS finance ministers) & Board of Directors.
Presidency rotates among BRICS; term currently Brazil.
Voting power proportional to equity; safeguards BRICS dominance.

Membership Expansion

New members: Bangladesh, UAE, Egypt, Uruguay, Algeria.
Access open to all UN states, subject to 55 % BRICS stake rule.
Objective: broaden funding base, enhance Global South voice.

Project Portfolio

Sectors: clean energy, transport, urban, water, health, education.
COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Facility deployed swiftly.
Aim: complement—not replace—World Bank/IMF financing.

Credit & Performance

High credit ratings enable low-cost bond issuances.
Over USD 40 bn already committed; disbursement pace rising.
Seeks green, sustainable benchmarks to maintain ratings.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Legal basis	Fortaleza Agreement, 15 Jul 2014
Operational since	21 Jul 2015
Latest entrant (full)	Algeria, 19 May 2025
Initial authorised capital	USD 100 billion
Initial subscribed capital	USD 50 billion
Current President	Dilma Rousseff (Brazil)
Voting control	BRICS collective majority
Global ratings	AA+ (S&P, Fitch); AAA (JCR, ACRA)
Projects approved	120 + worth > USD 40 bn
Indian portfolio	18 projects; USD 6.9 bn

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

GS1 2025PYQ 2

निम्नलिखित में से किस एक ने 'एशिया और प्रशांत क्षेत्र के लिए प्रकृति समाधान (नेचर सॉल्यूशन्स) फंड' प्रारंभ किया?

GS-2Security

12.Financial Action Task Force Mandate (Global Watchdog)

Hindustan TimesGrey List · Money Laundering · Terror Financing

Illustration for Financial Action Task Force Mandate (Global Watchdog)

What & Where

FATF; Paris-based intergovernmental watchdog countering money-laundering, terror and WMD financing

Born 1989 at G7 Paris; 39 members + EU; reach spans 200 + jurisdictions via regional bodies

Operates through 40 Recommendations, peer mutual evaluations, and grey/black listing

Quick Facts for MCQs

Inclusion Conditions

Failure to curb terror, money-laundering or proliferation financing flags strategic deficiencies
Non-cooperation during mutual evaluations or ignored action plans prompts listing
Weak national legal and enforcement frameworks amplify risk designation

Economic Impact

Grey listing triggers enhanced scrutiny, investment pull-back, multilateral aid constraints
Black listing brings full financial sanctions, global banking isolation, reputational collapse
Listing heightens sovereign borrowing costs and hampers trade facilitation

India Angle

New dossier urges FATF to re-grey-list Pakistan for unmet terror-finance pledges
India leveraged membership to push 2018 Pakistan grey listing
FATF platform aligns with India’s counter-terror diplomacy

Compliance Monitoring

Mutual evaluations: peer reviews assessing laws, regulation, enforcement effectiveness
Action plans: time-bound corrective steps tracked at plenaries and onsite visits
Public statements: name-and-shame tool increasing market and diplomatic pressure

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Founded	1989, G7 Paris Summit
Headquarters	Paris, France
Total Members	39 countries + European Union
India Membership	Full member since 2010
Core Standard	40 AML/CFT Recommendations
Grey List Tag	Jurisdictions under increased monitoring
Current Grey List Size	24 nations (Jun 2024)
Black List Members	North Korea, Iran, Myanmar
Pakistan Status	Grey-listed 2018–2022; re-listing sought
Economic Fallout	Lower FDI, credit downgrades, aid curbs

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2022PYQ 1

Recently which of the following countries were placed in the ‘Grey List’ of Financial Action Task Force ?

GS-2Scheme

13.PM E-DRIVE Electric Mobility Scheme (Electric Vehicles)

PIBRs 10 · 900 Crore · EV Buses

Illustration for PM E-DRIVE Electric Mobility Scheme (Electric Vehicles)

What & Where

PM E-DRIVE: MHI flagship Rs 10,900 cr scheme accelerating nationwide EV adoption and ecosystem.

Operational window: Oct 2024 – Mar 2026; focus cities include Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, Ahmedabad.

Coverage: e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-buses, e-ambulances, e-trucks plus 72,300 fast-charge points on urban corridors/highways.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Eligibility anchored to Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989 registration norms.
Incentives denied to government purchases preventing budgetary fund recycling.
Scrapping certificate mandatory for e-truck subsidy eligibility.

Tech & Schemes

Infrastructure: city-highway fast chargers network plus real-time slot booking super-app.
Testing agencies upgraded with advanced labs supporting battery, motor, charger validation.
Scheme complements EMPS 2024 and Net-Zero 2070 roadmap.

Economic Angle

Demand support expected to deepen domestic EV manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Price-linked subsidy fosters affordability for private/commercial buyers.
Charger rollout likely to stimulate allied sectors: power electronics, software, maintenance.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Nodal ministry	Ministry of Heavy Industries
Scheme tenure	1 Oct 2024 – 31 Mar 2026
Financial outlay	Rs 10,900 crore
Demand incentive cap	15 % of ex-factory price
Charger target	72,300 public fast chargers
Super-app developer	Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd
Testing upgrade fund	Rs 780 crore
Vehicle price ceiling	Mandatory; exact limit notified separately
Eligible battery	Advanced chemistry only
Government-procured EVs	Excluded from incentives
Predecessor schemes	FAME-I (2015), FAME-II (2019)
Recent e-2W sales	~5.7 lakh units in 2024-25 (EMPS + PM E-DRIVE)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

E-100 pilot project, launched in Pune in June 2021, is related to the production and distribution of

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2022PYQ 2

The e-AMRIT web portal on electric vehicles, launched at COP26 Summit in Glasgow recently, has been developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the Government of

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

14.KVIC Honey Mission Initiative (Beekeeping Promotion)

PIBWorld Bee Day · 2.29 Lakh Bee Boxes · MSME Ministry

Illustration for KVIC Honey Mission Initiative (Beekeeping Promotion)

What & Where

Observance; World Bee Day on 20 May, UN-designated to spotlight bees’ ecological and food-security roles

Programme; Honey Mission by KVIC, nationwide beekeeping push for rural self-employment under MSME Ministry

Geography; Implemented across Indian rural, remote clusters through KVIC field offices and SFURTI/NBHM hubs

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Provision; Beneficiaries receive bee boxes, colonies, toolkits, structured training
SFURTI; Forms artisan clusters, supplies modern machinery, marketing support
NBHM; Coordinates Sweet Revolution roadmap, R&D, quality control, traceability

Economic Angle

Employment; Mission targets self-employment for rural youth, women and tribals
Revenue; Domestic honey sales plus export earnings diversify agrarian income streams
Value-chain; Cluster approach enables aggregation, branding, higher price realisation

Environmental Impact

Pollination; Bees enhance crop yields, biodiversity, ecosystem resilience
Awareness; World Bee Day campaigns educate on pesticide risk, habitat loss
Sustainability; Beekeeping promotes eco-friendly livelihoods with low carbon footprint

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
World Bee Day inception	UN GA resolution 2018
2025 theme	“Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all”
Honey Mission launch	2017-18
Implementing body	Khadi & Village Industries Commission
Bee boxes distributed	2.29 lakh (till 2025)
Honey produced	20,000 MT
Income generated	₹325 crore to beekeepers
FY 24-25 KVIC honey exports	₹25 crore
Allied schemes	SFURTI, National Beekeeping & Honey Mission
Sweet Revolution tag	Part of Atmanirbhar Bharat

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2026PYQ 1

Which organization is responsible for implementing the National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM)?

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

15.Sagar Mein Samman Maritime Scheme (Women Seafarers)

PIBIMO Day · SDG-5 · Maritime India Vision 2030

What & Where

Sagar Mein Samman (SMS): GoI initiative to upskill, employ and retain women seafarers in Indian maritime sector.

Launched nationwide on 18 May 2025, International Day for Women in Maritime (IMO observance).

Anchored in Maritime India Vision 2030; covers planning, training, research, governance and outreach across ports, shipping, logistics.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Coverage: planning, training, research, governance, outreach modules for women across shipping value-chain.
Assistance: financial support, leadership grooming, safety protocols integrated into port operations.
Monitoring: periodic audits to track female workforce share and skill upgrades.

Social Concerns

Equality: targets systemic gender gap in high-skill maritime roles.
Empowerment: leverages demographic dividend, enhances coastal community livelihoods.
Safety: emphasizes shipboard harassment redressal and gender-sensitive infrastructure.

International Linkages

IMO: scheme complements global “Women in Maritime” agenda.
SDG-5: contributes directly to gender equality milestone by 2030.
Benchmarking: positions India as potential model for developing maritime nations.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch date	18 May 2025
Observance day	International Day for Women in Maritime (18 May)
2025 IMO theme	“An Ocean of Opportunities for Women”
Women seafarers 2014	341
Women seafarers 2024	2,557 (↑ 649 %)
Financially aided women	≈ 3,000 so far
2030 female share target	12 % in technical maritime roles
Key alignments	IMO gender mission, UN SDG-5, India DEI agenda
Supporting visions	Maritime India Vision 2030, Maritime AmritKaal Vision 2047
Parallel security doctrine	SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which of the following statements is not correct?

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2026PYQ 2

What is the name of the national digital framework launched at India Maritime Week 2025 to make Indian ports data-driven and AI-enabled?

GS-1Editorial

16.Patriotism and Civilian Ethics (Applied Ethics)

Indian ExpressOperation Sindoor · Stephen Nathanson · Simon Keller

Illustration for Patriotism and Civilian Ethics (Applied Ethics)

What & Where

Patriotism: affective‐moral loyalty demanding personal sacrifice for national welfare

Key types: Liberal, Robust, Ethical, Critical variants distinguished by moral scope

India context: Operation Sindoor, YouTuber espionage arrests rekindle civilian patriotism debate

Quick Facts for MCQs

Ethical Theories

Nathanson: moral partiality permissible within justice limits
Keller: emotional partiality often overrides rational assessment
Primoratz: patriotism valid only if promoting equitable, just nation

Patriotism vs Nationalism

Patriotism defensive; encourages introspection, pluralism, civic duty
Nationalism promotes us-vs-them, can justify authoritarianism and xenophobia
Democratic health correlates positively with critical patriotism, negatively with militant nationalism

Civilian Contribution

Teachers doctors civil servants act as institutional backbone sustaining development
Law-abiding eco-friendly citizens under Mission LiFE expand ethical patriotism beyond uniforms
Social harmony builders enhance unity-in-diversity, safeguarding constitutional values daily

Security Dimension

Operation Sindoor soldiers illustrate ultimate patriotic risk for territorial security
Espionage arrests highlight necessity of civilian vigilance against information leaks
Patriotic civilian ethos complements military efforts in comprehensive national security strategy

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Core emotion	Special affection and concern for one’s country
Scholar Stephen Nathanson	Patriotism = bounded but special concern, not blind devotion
Scholar Simon Keller	Flags belief bias; calls patriotism ethically fragile
Scholar Marcia Baron	Liberal Patriotism balances national interest with universal values
Scholar Alasdair MacIntyre	Robust Patriotism sees it as central community‐rooted virtue
Scholar Igor Primoratz	Ethical Patriotism prioritises justice, equity, moral accountability
Patriotism stance	Defensive, self-critical, rights-affirming
Nationalism stance	Aggressive, exclusivist, power-centric
Civilian tools	Voting, tax honesty, eco-friendly Mission LiFE habits
Silent sacrifice cases	ISRO launches, COVID-19 medical workers, disaster responders

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों में से कौन-सा/से भारतीय नागरिक के मूल कर्तव्यों के विषय में सही है/हैं?

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