Monday, 2 June 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one among the following is the estimated fiscal deficit as a percentage of GDP of India in the Budget Estimates of 2025-26?

The correct answer is (a) 4.8 percent. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025.

Q: In India, which one of the following is responsible for maintaining price stability by controlling inflation?

The correct answer is (a) Department of Consumer Affairs. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2022.

Q: Assertion (A): Ceiling on foreign exchange for a host of current account transaction heads was lowered in the year 2000. Reason (R): There was a fall in foreign currency assets also.

The correct answer is (a) Both A and R are individually true, and R is the correct explanation of A. This question appeared in GS1 2001.

Q: As part of the liberalisation programme and with a view to attracting foreign exchange, the Government and the RBI have devised two schemes known as FCNR-‘A’ and FCNR-‘B’. Which of the following is/are true regarding these two schemes?

The correct answer is (a) III only. This question appeared in GS1 1995.

Q: Itaipu Dam built on the River Parana is one of the largest dams in the world. Which one of the following two countries have this as a joint project?

The correct answer is (a) Brazil and Peru. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2005.

Q: Which one of the following countries is landlocked?

The correct answer is (a) Paraguay. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2023.

Q: Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites?

The correct answer is (b) Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: Consider the following protected areas:

The correct answer is (b) 1, 3 and 4 only. This question appeared in GS1 2012.

Q: India’s key climate targets include

The correct answer is (a) 1 and 2 only. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI 2025.

Q: Among the following, which one is not an ape?

The correct answer is (a) Gibbon. This question appeared in GS1 2008.

16 topicsGS-1: 5GS-2: 2GS-3: 9

0/16 done

GS-3Economy

1.RBI Drafts Gold-Loan Guidelines (Gold Loan Norms)

The HinduLTV 75% · Jewellery Collateral · 1 kg Limit

What & Where

RBI draft guidelines to standardise gold-loan practices across Indian banks & NBFCs

Covers collateral eligibility, valuation, LTV, tenure, renewal, repossession

Seeks borrower protection amid rising gold-loan NPAs and rapid portfolio growth

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Harmonisation codifies disparate bank & NBFC practices
Ownership declaration or original bill compulsory, uncertain titles ineligible
Concurrent loans on same collateral expressly prohibited

Economic Angle

Tighter norms may curtail NBFC liquidity, slow >100 % YoY portfolio growth
Mandatory assay, monitoring increases compliance cost, especially for small lenders
Inclusion of interest in bullet loans lowers disbursable quantum, impacting margins

Consumer Protection

LTV cap plus valuation safeguards curb over-leveraging, asset loss
Seven-day return clause with hefty penalty guarantees swift release of pledged gold
Separate scrutiny for business loans emphasises cash-flow viability over collateral value

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Permitted collateral	Only jewellery, bank-issued coins
Barred collateral	Bars, ingots, bullion
Loan-to-Value ceiling	75 % of assessed gold value
Bullet loan rule	Interest counted inside LTV
Valuation price	Lower of 30-day average or previous day 22-carat rate
Max gold per borrower	1 kg jewellery or 50 g coins
Consumption loan tenure	≤ 12 months
Fresh loan condition	Allowed only after full repayment
Gold return deadline	Within 7 working days post-closure
Delay penalty	₹5,000 per day
FY24 NPAs – banks	₹2,040 crore
FY24 NPAs – NBFCs	₹4,784 crore

GS-3Economy

2.RBI Annual Report 2024-25 Insights (RBI Annual Report)

Indian ExpressGDP 6.5% · Inflation 5.7% · Global Growth 3.3%

What & Where

RBI Annual Report: statutory disclosure (Sec 53, RBI Act) summarising policy, operations, audited accounts.

Time-frame: FY 2024-25 (Apr 2024–Mar 2025); focus India with global comparisons.

Released by Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai; tabled before Parliament.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Monetary & Inflation

Repo 6.50 %; stance neutral Oct 2024; CRR cut to 4 % to ease liquidity.
CPI 4.6 %; food 2.9 %; fuel −2.5 % deflation, easing pressure.
Core 3.5 %; services inflation sticky, vigilance maintained.

External & Fiscal

Exports +0.1 %, imports +6.2 %; trade gap USD 282.8 bn; CAD 1.3 %.
Reserves USD 668.3 bn, covering 11-month imports; foreign assets 74.3 % of RBI sheet.
Centre GFD 4.7 %; FY26 target 4.4 %; states seen within 3.2 %.

Digital & Tech

Digital payments volume +34.8 %, value +17.9 %; UPI commands 48.5 % global instant share.
CBDC pilot spans 17 banks, 60 lakh users; secure ‘.bank.in’ domain introduced.
FinTech & EmTech Repositories monitor AI/ML adoption for evidence-based regulation.

Challenges & Risks

Fake notes: Rs 200 up 13.9 %, Rs 500 up 37.3 %, sustained checks required.
Fraud amount surged three-fold to ₹36,014 cr; PSBs top value, private banks top cases.
Protectionism, wars, climate shocks threaten growth and price stability; buffers, diversification vital.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global growth 2024	3.3 %
India GDP FY25	6.5 %
Headline CPI FY25	4.6 %
Core CPI FY25	3.5 %
Repo rate FY25	6.50 %
CRR after Dec 2024	4 %
RBI surplus FY25	₹2.68 lakh cr
Forex reserves Mar 2025	USD 668.3 bn
CAD % of GDP	1.3 %
Centre GFD FY25	4.7 % of GDP
Digital payment volume growth	34.8 %
UPI global real-time share	48.5 %
RBI Fin-Inclusion Index 2024	64.2
Gold stock Mar 2025	879.58 MT

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Which one among the following is the estimated fiscal deficit as a percentage of GDP of India in the Budget Estimates of 2025-26?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2022PYQ 2

In India, which one of the following is responsible for maintaining price stability by controlling inflation?

GS-3Economy

3.Liberalised Remittance Scheme Overview (LRS Outflows)

LiveMintUSD 250 · 000 Limit · RBI 2004

Illustration for Liberalised Remittance Scheme Overview (LRS Outflows)

What & Where

Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS); RBI window (2004) for resident individuals to remit foreign exchange abroad

Geographic scope: whole of India; annual ceiling USD 2,50,000 per person (April–March)

Peak outward remittance logged July 2019: USD 1.69 billion, signalling capital-flight concerns

Quick Facts for MCQs

Eligibility & Scope

Individuals; minors included; corporates, HUFs, trusts, firms excluded
Frequency unlimited; cumulative remittance capped at USD 2,50,000 per fiscal
Uses: travel, study, medical, gifts, overseas shares, debt, property, foreign-currency accounts

Prohibited Uses

Schedule-I items such as lottery tickets, banned magazines barred
Trading in foreign exchange abroad expressly disallowed
Capital remittances to FATF black-listed or terror-linked entities prohibited

Legal & Compliance

Governance under FEMA 1999; transactions classified current vs capital account
PAN quoting and Form A2 filing with authorised dealer mandatory
Banks report LRS flows through RBI’s FETERS monitoring system

Outflow Trend

2014-19 LRS outflows nearly match foreign portfolio inflows, indicating resident capital shift
July 2019 record outflow underscores rising overseas education, travel, asset diversification demand
Persistent rise viewed by policymakers as potential pressure on domestic capital availability

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Regulator	Reserve Bank of India
Launch year	2004
Annual ceiling	USD 2,50,000
Highest monthly outflow	July 2019 – USD 1.69 bn
Eligible category	Resident individuals incl. minors
ID requirement	PAN compulsory
Prohibited jurisdictions	FATF non-cooperative & terror-linked

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2001PYQ 1

Assertion (A): Ceiling on foreign exchange for a host of current account transaction heads was lowered in the year 2000. Reason (R): There was a fall in foreign currency assets also.

GS1 1995PYQ 2

As part of the liberalisation programme and with a view to attracting foreign exchange, the Government and the RBI have devised two schemes known as FCNR-‘A’ and FCNR-‘B’. Which of the following is/are true regarding these two schemes?

GS-1History

4.Ahilyabai Holkar Legacy (Ahilyabai Holkar)

PIBMalwa Ruler · Maheshwar Capital · Temple Restoration

Illustration for Ahilyabai Holkar Legacy (Ahilyabai Holkar)

What & Where

Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar – 18th-century Maratha queen who ruled Malwa after 1767.

Geography – Born Chondi (Ahmednagar, MH); shifted capital to Maheshwar on Narmada, governing present-day western MP.

Identity – Revered as “Philosopher Queen” for just rule, temple reconstruction and women-centric reforms.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Administrative Measures

Audience – Conducted daily Darbar to redress public grievances.
Agriculture – Promoted irrigation, crop diversity, rural crafts for farmers, artisans, tribals.
Military – Personally led campaigns; created organised Holkar army in 1792.

Cultural Projects

Temple-building – Rebuilt/renovated hundreds incl. Kashi Vishwanath, Somnath.
Pilgrimage facilities – Commissioned ghats, wells, dharamshalas nationwide.
Jyotirlinga focus – Sponsored two Jyotirlinga shrines, bolstering pan-Indian religious unity.

Social Reforms

Advocacy – Supported higher marriage age, widow remarriage, women property rights.
Security – Formed women’s army and village safety squads.
Education – Set up gurukuls, schools encouraging female literacy.

Infrastructure & Economy

Roads – Laid all-weather routes to Rameshwaram, Haridwar, Kashi, Somnath.
Rest houses – Built vast network of traveller rest-homes boosting commerce.
Textile – Founded Maheshwari saree industry, sustaining local livelihoods.

Legacy

Title – Remembered as “Lokmata” for combining dharma with development.
Governance model – Continues to inspire grassroots, inclusive administration in India.
Cultural imprint – 300th birth anniversary celebrated nationally, 2025 declared commemorative year.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth	31 May 1725
Birthplace	Chondi, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
Father	Mankoji Rao Shinde
Dynasty	Holkar, Maratha Confederacy
Ascended throne	1767 with Peshwa sanction
Capital city	Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh
Army founded	1792 Holkar standing army
Notable restoration	Kashi Vishwanath Temple, 1780
Death	13 Aug 1795, age 70

GS-1Infrastructure

5.India Urban Drainage Crisis (Urban Flooding)

UrbanisationStormwater Drains · MoHUA Data · Mumbai 25 mm/hour

Illustration for India Urban Drainage Crisis (Urban Flooding)

What & Where

Urban drainage = engineered channels, pipes, water-bodies managing storm run-off in cities.

Crisis acute in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru; 70 % urban India lacks scientific storm drains.

High-intensity, short-burst rains + rampant concretisation overwhelm 19th--20th-century systems.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Drivers of Failure

Climate-change: rising frequency of 100 mm+ hourly downpours across north-western plains, coastal Konkan.
Concretisation: floodplains, lake-beds, open soils replaced by impervious surfaces, cutting infiltration.
Legacy design: many drains built for 1-in-2-yr events; no separate sewer-storm lines in Patna, Bhopal.

Legal & Policy

Central Manual 2019 sets higher return periods, capacity checks every five years.
AMRUT 2.0, Atal Bhujal, Amrit Sarovar push integrated drains, recharge, water-body revival.
GIS-based mapping made compulsory in Smart Cities & Delhi master-plan 2041 draft.

Tech & Schemes

Simulation models: runoff forecasting, land-use linked redesign (Delhi, Hyderabad pilots).
Permeable pavements, bioswales, rooftop gardens promoted under Swachh Bharat Green City guidelines.
Underground retention tanks under parks, bus-depots tested in Chennai, Surat.

Prescribed Remedies

Enforcement: desilting schedules, ban on drain covering, strict zoning of floodplains.
Decentralisation: ward-level soak-pits, recharge shafts, community rainwater capture.
Awareness: city campaigns on not dumping waste in nallahs, linking RW harvesting to property tax rebates.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Urban areas without planned drains	>70 % (MoHUA)
Mumbai drain design (year)	1860s; 25 mm/hour capacity
Mumbai current peak rain	>100 mm/hour; 80 % water-bodies lost in 40 yrs
Delhi design norm (1976)	50 mm/day; 185.9 mm fell in one day, May 2025
Bengaluru encroached lakes	>65 % of interlinked lakes
Manual on SWD 2019	Recommends 1-in-5 / 1-in-10 yr design
AMRUT 2.0	Mandates integrated storm-water networks & water-body harvesting
MBBL 2016	Rainwater harvesting mandatory for plots > 100 sq m
Jal Shakti Abhiyan	Promotes urban groundwater recharge structures

GS-1MappingQuick Bite

6.Birch Glacier Collapse Switzerland (Birch Glacier Collapse)

Hindustan TimesSwiss Alps · Lotschental Valley · Permafrost Thaw

What & Where

Birch Glacier – valley glacier in Lötschental, Swiss Alps, adjoining Bietschhorn peak.

Collapse zone affects River Lonza, triggering ice-rock-mud landslide and flood threat.

Alps – Europe’s largest fold-mountain arc across 8 countries; Swiss segment south of Swiss Plateau.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Environmental Impact

Landslide buried Alpine village under ice, rock, mud; high casualty and infrastructure risk.
Debris accumulation elevates Lonza flood potential, sediment overload downstream.
Glacier instability driven by compounded geohazards rather than single trigger.

Climate Change Indicators

Rapid 40 % Swiss glacier volume decline underscores accelerated warming of European highlands.
Permafrost thaw weakens ice-bonded rock, increasing likelihood of multi-hazard collapses.
Record 2022–23 temperatures produced unprecedented 10 % ice loss within two years.

Regional Geography

Swiss Alps positioned south of Swiss Plateau, forming primary climatic and trade divide.
Mountain passes historically linked Italian markets to northern Europe despite rugged topography.
Alps’ eight-nation span creates shared transboundary climate-adaptation challenges.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Glacier name	Birch Glacier
Location	Lötschental Valley, Switzerland
Nearest peak	Bietschhorn (3,934 m)
River impacted	Lonza
Swiss glacier volume loss since 2000	≈ 40 %
Loss in 2022–23 heat years	≈ 10 %
Alps countries spanned	FR, CH, IT, LI, AT, DE, SI, MC
Highest Alpine peak	Mont Blanc (4,808 m)
Alps role	Historic N–S Europe trade barrier
Key destabilisers	Heavy debris, permafrost thaw, rising temperature

GS-1Mapping

7.Nigeria Floods and Geography (Nigeria Geography)

Times of IndiaNiger River · Benue River · Jos Plateau

Illustration for Nigeria Floods and Geography (Nigeria Geography)

What & Where

Flood event: Central Nigeria, chiefly Niger State, triggered by torrential rain plus Mokwa-based Alau dam collapse.

Setting: Middle-Belt confluence of Niger & Benue rivers, draining toward low-lying, mangrove-rich Niger Delta.

Toll: 150 + fatalities; extensive rural inundation and crop loss.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Hydrometeorological Cause

Intense monsoon-type rainfall overwhelmed catchment storage.
Dam failure released additional surge, amplifying riverine flooding.
Poor early-warning systems limited evacuation time.

Physical Geography

Confluence zone of Niger–Benue naturally flood-prone during peak rains.
Low coastal gradient of Niger Delta slows discharge, prolonging inundation.
Udi-Nsukka escarpments bound eastern floodplains.

Vulnerability & Impact

Agrarian settlements on fertile alluvium face recurrent waterlogging.
Damage to transport links hampers relief delivery to interior.
Potential secondary outbreaks: water-borne diseases, vector proliferation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital of Nigeria	Abuja
Deaths in 2023 flood	150 +
Failed structure	Alau dam, Mokwa
Major river	Niger River
Largest tributary	Benue River
Highest peak	Chappal Waddi – 2,419 m
2nd highest peak	Mount Dimlang – 2,042 m
Key man-made lake	Lake Kainji
Delta ecosystems	Brackish mangroves, swamps, oxbow lakes
Bordering nations	Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Benin; S coast on Gulf of Guinea
Northern plains	Sokoto & Borno sedimentary basins
Plateau in centre	Jos Plateau (extinct volcanoes)
Vulnerable basin NE	Chad Basin

GS-1Mapping

8.Paraguay Rivers and Landforms (Paraguay Geography)

DD NewsParaguay River · Paraná River · Chaco Boreal

Illustration for Paraguay Rivers and Landforms (Paraguay Geography)

What & Where

Paraguay; land-locked South-Central American republic, east–west split by Paraguay River into Región Oriental & Chaco Boreal.

Current President Santiago Peña Palacios on first state visit to India, 2–4 June 2025; only second Paraguayan presidential trip.

Core geography: Brazilian Plateau in east, hydropower-rich Paraná–Paraguay basin, subtropical-to-tropical climate gradient.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Diplomatic Visit

Objective; deepen trade, tech, diplomatic cooperation during Peña’s maiden Indian state visit.
Historical; second Paraguayan presidential visit after 2012 Fernando Lugo trip.
Platform; aligns with India’s Latin America outreach under Act Global policy.

Physical Geography

Terrain; eastern rolling plateau, western semi-arid lowland Chaco.
Hydrography; Paraná & Paraguay valleys dominate central–western landscape, fueling Itaipu-Yacyretá hydropower complexes.
Biodiversity; transition from Atlantic Forest east to thorny scrub Chaco west.

Climate & Hydropower

Gradient; rainfall halves from humid east to drier west, influencing agriculture zoning.
Energy; river flow enables surplus electricity exports to Brazil, Argentina.
Vulnerability; El Niño years amplify eastern floods, western droughts.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital	Asunción
Continent zone	South-Central America
Landlocked	Yes
Border countries	Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina
Tropic position	Mostly south of Tropic of Capricorn
River division	Paraguay River
Eastern region name	Región Oriental
Western region name	Región Occidental / Chaco Boreal
Major rivers	Paraguay, Paraná, Pilcomayo, Apa
Key lakes	Ypoá, Ypacaraí
Highest peak	Mount San Rafael – 850 m
Main ranges	Amambay, Mbaracayú, Cordillera de San Rafael
Plateau	Brazilian Plateau extension
Climate east	Subtropical
Climate west	Tropical
Rainfall east	1,400–1,650 mm
Rainfall west	~760 mm
Power status	Top hydropower exporter
Visit dates	2–4 June 2025
Visiting dignitary	President Santiago Peña Palacios

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2005PYQ 1

Itaipu Dam built on the River Parana is one of the largest dams in the world. Which one of the following two countries have this as a joint project?

GEO_GS, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Which one of the following countries is landlocked?

GS-3Environment

9.Jharkhand Proposes Palamau Tiger Safari (Tiger Safari Policy)

Indian ExpressPalamau Tiger Reserve · NTCA Guidelines · Wildlife Protection Act

What & Where

Tiger safari – enclosed, naturalistic facility ensuring tiger sighting; houses rescued, conflict-prone or orphaned animals

Key types – Captive safari vs traditional wild safari model

Proposed site – fringe zone of Palamu Tiger Reserve, Latehar district, Jharkhand, Chhotanagpur Plateau

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Compliance requires Wildlife Act provisions, NTCA norms, CZA design approval, SC spatial restriction
Safari model offers guaranteed sighting reducing tourist pressure on core habitat
Jharkhand’s first safari aligns with national push for regulated ex-situ conservation tourism

Ecology & Biodiversity

PTR hosts dry deciduous ecosystem supporting large carnivores plus elephants and endemic antelopes
Perennial Burha River ensures crucial water holes during dry season
Captive safari can serve as rescue centre for conflict tigers from fragmented Jharkhand forests

Historical Note

PTR venue of world’s first pugmark based tiger census in 1932, pioneering population monitoring
Inclusion in 1974 Project Tiger list underscores longstanding conservation priority
Region’s colonial forestry legacy informed early wildlife enumeration methods

Tourism & Economy

Guaranteed tiger views expected to boost eco-tourism revenue in a Naxal-affected district
Safari adjoining but outside buffer mitigates wildlife disturbance while offering jobs to local communities
Infrastructure must meet CZA visitor, animal welfare, and education criteria

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Governing Act	Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
Main Guidelines	NTCA 2012 & 2016
Design Authority	Central Zoo Authority
SC March 2024 order	Safari outside core & buffer zones
PTR Project Tiger notification	1974
PTR location	Latehar district, Jharkhand
Plateau	Chhotanagpur
Draining rivers	North Koel, Burha, Auranga
Forest type	Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous
Dominant tree	Sal (Shorea robusta)
Flagship fauna	Bengal Tiger
Other key fauna	Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Grey Wolf, Pangolin, Otter, Four-horned Antelope
Original Project Tiger count	9 reserves; PTR among them
First pugmark census year	1932
Census lead	J W Nicholson

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites?

GS1 2012PYQ 2

Consider the following protected areas:

GS-3Environment

10.Tech Industry Cuts Data-Centre Emissions (Data Centre Emissions)

The HinduAdvanced Cooling · Net-zero 2030 · Microsoft Study

What & Where

Advanced data-centre cooling: cold-plate & immersion methods piloted by Microsoft/WSP, applicable to hyperscale campuses worldwide

Tech industry climate roadmap: 42 % GHG cut (2015-30), net-zero mid-century, 100 % renewable ops (Google 2030 target)

Indian leadership hubs: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai firms (Infosys, Reliance, Tech Mahindra) embedding AI, blockchain for ESG

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Carbon credits: Verified units fund conservation; blockchain boosts issuance transparency per Gold Standard
Renewable integration: Amazon, Apple, Meta run green campuses; onsite solar, PPAs dominate supply mix
AI-driven cooling: Sensors modulate fluid flow, cutting peak electricity demand in server halls

Challenges

Lifecycle trade-off: Coolant manufacture may offset operational gains, stressing LCAs necessity
Capital intensity: Retrofitting legacy data centres, R&D on fluids elevate upfront costs
Regulatory gaps: No unified coolant standards; fragmented carbon-market rules hinder scale

Way Forward

Government levers: Tax credits, green-finance windows, subsidies for early sustainable-tech adopters
Global framework: Harmonise carbon-credit certification, climate disclosures across jurisdictions
R&D focus: Develop low-GWP fluids, modular immersion designs, adaptive AI control systems

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Emission cut goal	42 % by 2030 vs 2015
Net-zero timeline	Mid-century (~2050)
Cooling emission drop	15–21 % vs conventional air systems
Water saving	Up to 52 % through immersion/cold-plate
Major study partners	Microsoft & WSP Global
Google renewable pledge	100 % clean energy by 2030
Carbon credit users	Google, Netflix; Indian IT adopters via blockchain
Key Indian green IT firms	Infosys, Reliance, Tech Mahindra

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI 2025PYQ 1

India’s key climate targets include

GS-3Species

11.Primates in Peril Report (Endangered Primates)

Down to EarthCross River Gorilla · Tapanuli Orangutan · IUCN Critically Endangered

Illustration for Primates in Peril Report (Endangered Primates)

What & Where

Report Primates in Peril 2025 identifies 25 globally threatened primate species.

Regional split of species count: Africa 6; Madagascar 4; Asia 9; South America 6.

Indian focus: Phayre’s Langur & Western Hoolock Gibbon reviewed yet omitted; both remain Endangered, Schedule I.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conservation Status

Critically Endangered: Cross River Gorilla; Tapanuli Orangutan
Endangered India: Phayre’s Langur; Western Hoolock Gibbon
All listed species assessed under IUCN Red List criteria

Geographical Distribution

Africa primates mainly Cameroon-Nigeria forests
Asian list spans Indonesia, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar corridors
South American entries concentrated in Amazonian Neotropics

Indian Species Traits

Phayre’s Langur spectacled visage; diurnal arboreal folivore preferring evergreen & bamboo mosaics
Western Hoolock Gibbon tailless pair-duet singer; occupies moist deciduous to lowland forests
Both rely on contiguous canopy; fragmentation primary threat

Legal & Policy

Schedule I confers highest protection; hunting or trade prohibited
Sanctuaries and community reserves pivotal for Northeast primate corridors
Report aids India’s National Primate Conservation Action Plan

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Total species in report	25
Africa species share	6
Madagascar species share	4
Asia species share	9
Neotropics species share	6
Most endangered great apes	Cross River Gorilla; Tapanuli Orangutan
Cross River Gorilla groups	≥ 11 in Cameroon & Nigeria
Tapanuli Orangutan population	< 800 individuals
IUCN status of both	Critically Endangered
India’s only ape	Western Hoolock Gibbon
Gibbon core refuge	Hoollongapar Sanctuary, Assam
Phayre’s Langur Indian range	Assam, Mizoram, Tripura
Key Tripura sanctuaries	Sipahijala; Trishna; Gumti
Legal shield in India	Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 Schedule I
2023 UPSC tool-use answer	Orangutan

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2008PYQ 1

Among the following, which one is not an ape?

GS1 2012PYQ 2

Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

GS-3S&T

12.Tech Trends in Pharma Industry (Pharma Technologies)

BLAI Drug Discovery · Biologics · Automation

What & Where

Pharma-tech evolution: AI, IoMT, blockchain, biologics, digital twins reshaping discovery, trials, manufacturing in India

Key technologies: AI/ML prediction, IoMT remote monitoring, blockchain traceability, biosimilars, digital-twin process optimisation

Geography marker: India 3rd-largest producer by volume, >50 % global vaccines, major generic supplier to US

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

AI/ML: Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy’s using models for tuberculosis, diabetes molecule repurposing
IoMT: wearables enable decentralised clinical trials, smart packaging tracks temperature, light exposure
PLI scheme: output-linked incentives boost domestic APIs, devices, biosimilar capacity

Challenges

Data privacy: sensitive patient datasets exposed to cyber breaches, eroding trust
Cost barrier: biologics, automation demand high CAPEX, squeezing SMEs
Regulation lag: fast tech advances outpace harmonised guidelines, slowing approvals

Skill & Workforce

Talent gap: shortages in data science, bioinformatics, robotics hinder tech adoption
Reskilling need: government–industry–academia must run digital literacy, innovation labs, mentorship
AI ethics: workforce training essential to curb bias and maintain fairness

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global production rank (volume)	3rd
Share in world vaccine supply	>50 %
US generic market share	~40 %
FY 2023-24 pharma market	USD 50 bn (1.72 % GDP)
Projected market 2030	USD 130 bn
APIs produced domestically	500 + (8 % world)
Biotech valuation 2022	USD 137 bn
Patent filings 2023	64,480; 6th globally

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

13.Mosura Fentoni Cambrian Fossil (Cambrian Fossil)

The HinduMosura fentoni · Burgess Shale · Radiodont

Illustration for Mosura Fentoni Cambrian Fossil (Cambrian Fossil)

What & Where

Species Mosura fentoni – small, highly-specialised Cambrian radiodont; fossils from Burgess Shale, British Columbia, Canada.

Timeframe 541-485 Ma; environment shallow Cambrian seas.

Belongs to radiodonts, early arthropod relatives, showing advanced swimming & respiratory tagma.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Anatomy & Physiology

Segmentation shows distinct neck, swimming trunk, gill-bearing posterotrunk.
Paddle flaps enable agile propulsion unlike many contemporaneous predators.
Gilled posterotrunk acts as dedicated respiratory tagma, enhancing oxygen uptake.

Evolutionary Insight

Early segment specialisation foreshadows modular body plans in modern insects/crustaceans.
Advanced locomotion + respiration suggest rapid arthropod functional diversification post-Cambrian explosion.
Radiodonts classify as close relatives, not direct ancestors, of extant arthropods.

Fossil Context

Burgess Shale provides soft-tissue preservation, revealing fine gill structures.
Discovery challenges view that sophisticated swimming/respiration arose later in arthropod evolution.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Geological period	Cambrian (541-485.4 Ma)
Fossil site	Burgess Shale, Canada
Taxonomic group	Radiodont (primitive arthropod relative)
Body plan	Segmented trunk + short neck
Swimming aid	Six paddle-shaped lateral flaps
Respiratory organ	Posterotrunk bearing external gills
Tagma analog	Resembles horseshoe crab oxygen-collecting tail
Evolutionary cue	Early segment specialisation in arthropod lineages

GS-2Economy

14.Asian Development Bank Overview (ADB Functions)

Down to EarthHeadquarters Manila · Founded 1966 · Membership 69

Illustration for Asian Development Bank Overview (ADB Functions)

What & Where

Asian Development Bank (ADB) – regional MDB promoting inclusive, sustainable growth across Asia-Pacific.

$434.25 mn ADB loan for 1,000 MW Solar Power Park, Karbi Anglong district, Assam, cancelled.

Union Finance Ministry acted on Assam govt request to avoid indigenous land conflict.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Social Concerns

Tribal-land protest; Karbi & other indigenous groups feared displacement, loss of community forests.
Cancellation aimed at averting further conflict, safeguarding customary land rights.
Indicates rising scrutiny of green projects on indigenous territories.

Economic Angle

Solar park envisioned to boost Northeast India’s renewable capacity and grid stability.
Loan withdrawal stalls $434 mn foreign funding, requiring alternative financing or downsizing.
Demonstrates cost of inadequate social impact assessment in infrastructure planning.

Governance & Membership

Capital-weighted voting; larger subscriptions give greater influence in ADB decisions.
Five biggest shareholders collectively hold ~49 % voting power.
Non-regional members (e.g., Germany, Canada) participate to foster wider development cooperation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
ADB HQ	Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines
Establishment	19 Dec 1966
Total members (2024)	69
Asia-Pacific members	50
Loan cancelled	$434.25 million
Project capacity	1,000 MW solar
Affected area	Karbi Anglong, Assam
Major shareholders (2020)	Japan 15.7 %, USA 15.7 %, China 6.4 %, India 6.3 %, Australia 5.3 %
Founding inspiration	UNESCAP
UN status	Observer in UNGA

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2025PYQ 1

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

GS1 2019PYQ 2

एशियाई अवसंरचना निवेश बैंक (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank – AIIB) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Infrastructure

15.International Air Transport Association Overview (IATA Functions)

PMIFounded 1945 · Headquarters Montreal · AGM 81st Delhi

What & Where

IATA; global trade body for commercial airlines; standard-setter in safety, ticketing, cargo

Founded April 1945, Havana; successor to 1919 International Air Traffic Association

Headquarters Montreal, Canada; executive offices Geneva, Switzerland

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Evolution

Post-war creation to coordinate fares; initially allowed price-fixing under state regulation
Shifted toward liberalized advocacy, safety audits, digital ticketing leadership
AGM returns to India shows emerging aviation market influence

Objectives & Functions

Representation; lobbies for fair fees, harmonised global regulations
Standardisation; issues technical manuals, financial settlement systems
Support; runs clearing house, cargo protocols, training for member carriers

Green Transition

Agenda; Sustainable Aviation Fuel, decarbonisation roadmaps, energy security
Financing; explores mechanisms for capital-intensive fleet and infrastructure upgrades
Innovation; promotes connectivity tech and eco-efficient airport designs

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Current AGM	81st edition, New Delhi
India hosts after	42-year gap
Members	317 airlines
Coverage	~82 % world air traffic
Flagship meet	World Air Transport Summit
First tariff conference	Rio de Janeiro, 1947
Origin context	Post-Chicago Convention 1944
Core HQ city	Montreal
Executive office city	Geneva
Establishment year	1945
Founding venue	Havana, Cuba

GS-3SecurityQuick Bite

16.Nomadic Elephant 17th Exercise (India-Mongolia Exercise)

PIBUlaanbaatar · UN Chapter VII · Semi-urban Operations

Illustration for Nomadic Elephant 17th Exercise (India-Mongolia Exercise)

What & Where

Nomadic Elephant: bilateral India–Mongolia army exercise alternating since 2006.

17th edition: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; previous (16th) at Umroi, Meghalaya, Jul 2024.

Focus: semi-conventional ops in semi-urban/mountainous terrain under UN Chapter VII mandate.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Objective: enhance India–Mongolia interoperability for counter-insurgency-like semi-conventional missions.
Training includes live-fire, cordon-search, casualty evacuation in high-altitude settings.
Builds rapid deployment readiness for UN peace enforcement tasks.

UN Framework

Chapter VII empowers UNSC to sanction, blockade or deploy forces to restore peace.
Exercises familiarise troops with ROE, mandate compliance under Chapter VII missions.

International Examples

Khaan Quest: Mongolia-hosted multinational peacekeeping drill; India a regular participant, reinforcing wider defence ties.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Edition 2025	17th
Host cycle	Alternates India & Mongolia annually
First held	2006
2025 venue	Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
2024 venue	Umroi, Meghalaya
Terrain focus	Semi-urban & mountainous
UN basis	Chapter VII peace-enforcement
Related exercise	Khaan Quest (multinational, Mongolia)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Aim of exercise 'Nomadic Elephant' is to build positive military relations, exchange best practices, develop interoperability, bonhomie, camaraderie and friendship between India and which one of the following countries?

CAPF_GAI, ESE_GS 2023PYQ 2

Exercise Ajeya Warrior is a biennial training event between the Indian Army and the army of:

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