Tuesday, 10 June 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following is not a fund managed by NIIFL (National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited)?

The correct answer is (a) Master Fund. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2024.

Q: With reference to 'National Investment and Infrastructure Fund', which of the following statements is/are correct?

The correct answer is (d) Neither 1 nor 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2017.

Q: With reference to Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic?

The correct answer is (b) It is a largely non-debt creating capital flow.. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2020.

Q: According to the Reserve Bank of India’s report, which two countries together accounted for over one-third of the total FDI in India?

The correct answer is (a) United States and Singapore. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GS1 2026.

Q: Dholera and Sanand in Gujarat are in news for setting up

The correct answer is (a) solar panels. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2026.

Q: The SEZ Act, 2005 which came into effect in February 2006 has certain objectives. In this context, consider the following :

The correct answer is (a) 1 and 2 only. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2010.

Q: With reference to ‘Quality Council of India (QCI)’, consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (c) Both 1 and 2. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: Which one of the following States/UTs was connected with the Indian Railways network in the year 2021?

The correct answer is (d) Sikkim. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022.

Q: As part of the Look/Act East Policy, which one of the following capitals of North-East Indian States is proposed to be connected with Bangladesh via rail route?

The correct answer is (b) Kohima. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022.

Q: With reference to the history of India, "Ulgulan" or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

The correct answer is (d) Birsa Munda's Revolt of 1899–1900. This question appeared in GS1 2020.

17 topicsGS-1: 2GS-2: 3GS-3: 12

0/17 done

GS-3Economy

1.National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Operations (Infrastructure Fund)

Business StandardSovereign Wealth Fund · Alternative Investment Fund · Public-Private Partnership

Illustration for National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Operations (Infrastructure Fund)

What & Where

Government-anchored platform raising long-term capital for Indian infrastructure & strategic sectors.

SEBI-registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund, headquartered Mumbai; operational since 2015.

Functions as sovereign-wealth-linked asset manager with independent investment decisions across India.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Governance Setup

Governing Council advises on strategy, governance, mobilisation, deployment; chaired by Finance Minister.
6th meeting held 2024; cadence shifted to annual reviews.
NIIF board retains independent, commercial investment authority.

Fund Structure

Public-private mix: 49 % Govt, 51 % global institutional investors.
Category II AIF offers tax pass-through, no preset leverage cap.

Capital & Partnerships

AUM ₹30k cr leverages ~4×, attracting ₹1.17 lakh cr total capital.
Partners: sovereign wealth (ADIA), pension funds (CPPIB), multilaterals (ADB, AIIB, NDB).
Priority sectors: Make in India manufacturing, renewable/green energy, digital infrastructure.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Full name	National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
Established	2015-16 Union Budget
Headquarters	Mumbai, Maharashtra
Nodal ministry	Dept. of Economic Affairs, MoF
Govt equity share	49 %
Foreign anchor investors	ADIA, Temasek, CPPIB
SEBI status	Category II AIF (Dec 2015)
Assets under management	> ₹30,000 cr (~US$4.9 bn)
Capital catalysed	~₹1.17 lakh crore
CEO & MD	Sanjiv Aggarwal (Feb 2024)
Governing Council chair	Union Finance Minister
Latest council meeting	6th, New Delhi, 2024

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following is not a fund managed by NIIFL (National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited)?

CDS_GK, GS1 2017PYQ 2

With reference to 'National Investment and Infrastructure Fund', which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS-3Economy

2.India FDI Inflows FY 2024-25 Trends (Foreign Direct Investment)

Economic TimesDPIIT · Maharashtra Share · Automatic Route

Illustration for India FDI Inflows FY 2024-25 Trends (Foreign Direct Investment)

What & Where

FDI = cross-border capital giving foreign investor ownership + control in Indian enterprises.

Routes: Automatic up to sectoral caps; Government route needs DPIIT clearance.

Geography: FY 24-25 inflows cluster—Maharashtra + Karnataka capture 51 % of $81.04 bn.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Concentration: Top two states drew over half inflows, signalling uneven capital dispersion.
Growth: Overall inflows up 14 %, reversing two-year slowdown.
Scale: $81.04 bn highest in three years despite global headwinds.

Regional Shift

Decline: Delhi share plunged from 32 % to 12 % in nine years.
Rise: Gujarat doubled its share to 11 %.
Slippage: Tamil Nadu fell four percentage points to 7 %.

Policy Factors

Infrastructure: Better logistics, industrial corridors in Maharashtra & Karnataka attract investors.
Stability: Consistent sectoral policies, faster clearances boost state image.
Ecosystem: Mature tech and manufacturing clusters lower entry risk for foreign firms.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Total FY 24-25 inflow	$81.04 bn
YoY growth	14 % (3-year high)
Maharashtra share	$19.6 bn / 31 %
Karnataka share	$6.62 bn / 20 %
Delhi share 2015-16	32 %
Delhi share 2024-25	12 % ($6 bn)
Gujarat share change	6 % → 11 %
Tamil Nadu share change	11 % → 7 %
Maha + Karnataka combined	51 % of national total

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2020PYQ 1

With reference to Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic?

ESE_GS, GS1 2026PYQ 2

According to the Reserve Bank of India’s report, which two countries together accounted for over one-third of the total FDI in India?

GS-3Economy

3.Special Economic Zones Reforms for Semiconductor Manufacturing (Special Economic Zones)

PIBSEZ Rules 2006 · 10 Hectare Land · Board of Approval

What & Where

SEZ: duty-free enclave deemed foreign territory for trade; established under SEZ Act 2005 & Rules 2006.

Types: EPZ, Free Trade/Ports, Industrial Estates, Urban Enterprise Zones; 276 operational units as of 2023-24.

New hubs: Micron semiconductor SEZ (Sanand, Gujarat); Aequs electronics component SEZ (Dharwad, Karnataka).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Amendment trims land norm to 10 ha, easing high-tech entry barriers.
DESH Bill aims to morph SEZs into flexible Development Hubs, diluting export-only mandate.
Baba Kalyani panel 2018 proposed rebranding as 3Es—Employment & Economic Enclaves.

Economic Angle

Semiconductor & electronics sectors capital-intensive, import-dependent, long gestation; domestic sales permission boosts viability.
SEZ exports topped USD 163.69 bn in 2023-24, IT still ~70 % share.
Rising input, logistics costs erode cost edge versus China, Vietnam.

Implementation Challenges

40 % gap approved vs. notified SEZs; >60 % gap notified vs. operational.
WTO scrutiny on export-linked subsidies; OECD tax may dilute incentives.
Infrastructure shortfalls: land cost, power reliability, last-mile port connectivity.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Minimum land (old → new)	50 ha → 10 ha for semiconductor/electronics SEZ
Net Foreign Exchange	Free-of-cost goods now count in NFE calculus
Domestic sales rule	Allowed to DTA on duty payment
Land encumbrance	Board of Approval may relax if mortgaged/leased to govt
Board of Approval head	Secretary, Dept. of Commerce
Operational SEZs	276 (FY 24)
SEZ exports FY 24	USD 163.69 billion
ECB ceiling for units	USD 500 million per year, no maturity bar
Upcoming replacement law	DESH Bill 2022
OECD global tax rate	15 % minimum corporate tax

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2026PYQ 1

Dholera and Sanand in Gujarat are in news for setting up

GEO_GS, GS1 2010PYQ 2

The SEZ Act, 2005 which came into effect in February 2006 has certain objectives. In this context, consider the following :

GS-3EconomyQuick Bite

4.World Accreditation Day 2025 and QCI Initiatives (Accreditation Standards)

PIBQuality Council of India · Accreditation · NABL Portal

Illustration for World Accreditation Day 2025 and QCI Initiatives (Accreditation Standards)

What & Where

Accreditation: formal verification that institutions meet prescribed quality standards in testing, inspection, certification

Quality Council of India: autonomous under DPIIT; drives National Accreditation Structure via NABCB & NABL

World Accreditation Day 2025: observed 9 June; focus on empowering SMEs; India events led by QCI

Quick Facts for MCQs

Government Policies

Autonomy: QCI established 1997 to insulate accreditation from direct state control yet aid regulators
NAS mandate: ensures robust, trustworthy conformity data for decision making, compliance, standard setting
WAD spotlight: annual observance mainstreams quality culture across sectors

Tech & Schemes

NABL Portal: single-window digital accreditation access; tailored for cost-sensitive MSMEs
Gunvatta Samarpan: online pledge drive inviting public and industry commitment to quality
Integration: NABL & NABCB databases unified for regulators, exporters, consumers

Economic Angle

Cost reduction: accreditation lowers transaction costs; eases global market entry for SMEs
Collaboration: industry bodies ASSOCHAM CII FICCI partner with government to speed trade facilitation
Investor confidence: reliable conformity assessment data enhances market trust and GDP contribution

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
WAD 2025 date	9 June 2025
WAD theme	“Accreditation: Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)”
QCI set-up year	1997
Parent ministry	DPIIT, Commerce & Industry
Chairperson selection	Appointed by PM on industry recommendation
Accreditation boards	NABCB & NABL
Fresh digital tool	Revamped NABL Portal
Quality pledge drive	Gunvatta Samarpan Initiative
Industry members	ASSOCHAM, CII, FICCI
Core mandate	Develop & manage National Accreditation Structure

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

With reference to ‘Quality Council of India (QCI)’, consider the following statements:

GS-3InfrastructureQuick Bite

5.Rail Connectivity Reaches Aizawl via Bairabi-Sairang Line (Northeast Railway Connectivity)

Indian ExpressBairabi-Sairang · National Rail Plan · Indian Railways

Illustration for Rail Connectivity Reaches Aizawl via Bairabi-Sairang Line (Northeast Railway Connectivity)

What & Where

Bairabi–Sairang rail line links Aizawl, integrating Mizoram with the national broad-gauge network.

Aizawl becomes 4th Northeastern capital on rail map after Dispur, Agartala, Itanagar.

Indian Railways: 4th-largest global network, first ran 21 mi Bombay–Thane, 1853.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Regional Connectivity

Expansion boosts Northeast integration, easing movement of goods, troops, tourists.
Remaining non-connected NE capitals: Shillong, Imphal, Kohima, Gangtok.

Economic Angle

Freight dominance underpins financial health; passenger cross-subsidised.
Rail connectivity expected to spur Mizoram trade, lower logistics cost.

Policy & Planning

National Rail Plan 2030 targets capacity, technology, sustainability upgrades.
Focus corridors: high-density & port linkage lines for freight speed enhancement.

Social Concerns

Khasi organisations fear demographic change, demand inner-line safeguards before Shillong link proceeds.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
New line	Bairabi–Sairang
State capital connected	Aizawl, Mizoram
NE capitals with rail	4 (Assam, Tripura, Arunachal Pr., Mizoram)
Year first Indian train	1853
First journey length	21 miles
Global network rank	4th (after US, China, Russia)
Freight share 2022-23	69 % of revenue
Passenger share 2022-23	24 % of revenue
Other revenue 2022-23	7 %
GDP contribution FY24	~1.5 %
National Rail Plan horizon	2030
Projected 2050 global share	~40 % of rail activity
Shillong rail status	Opposed by Khasi groups

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following States/UTs was connected with the Indian Railways network in the year 2021?

CAPF_GAI, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

As part of the Look/Act East Policy, which one of the following capitals of North-East Indian States is proposed to be connected with Bangladesh via rail route?

GS-3InfrastructureQuick Bite

6.Chenab and Anji Khad Railway Bridges Inauguration (Railway Bridges J&K)

Hindustan TimesWorld’s Highest Arch · Seismic Design · Blast Proof

Illustration for Chenab and Anji Khad Railway Bridges Inauguration (Railway Bridges J&K)

What & Where

Chenab Rail Bridge – 359 m steel arch spanning Chenab River, Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir

Anji Khad Bridge – India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge over Anji River, a Chenab tributary

Both bridges anchor the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, giving Kashmir year-round rail access

Quick Facts for MCQs

Engineering & Design

Steel-arch geometry optimised for Himalayan winds and 1:8 slope approaches
Foundation by IISc; seismic analytics by IIT Delhi & IIT Roorkee
DRDO certification ensured blast-proofing standards

Durability & Safety

Structure endures magnitude-8 quakes, 266 km/h winds, −20 °C temperatures
40-tonne TNT blast survivability enhances critical-asset security
Redundant pier system allows limited-speed operations after single-pier failure

Connectivity & Strategic

USBRL completion shortens Jammu–Srinagar travel to roughly three hours
Year-round rail boosts troop mobility and disaster response in Kashmir valley
Improved market access expected to spur tourism and horticulture exports

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Highest railway bridge	Chenab Rail Bridge – 359 m
Taller than Eiffel	By 35 m
Second-highest bridge	Anji Khad Bridge
Bridge type	Chenab – steel arch; Anji – cable-stayed
District	Reasi, J&K
Main river	Chenab
Tributary crossed	Anji River
Rail project	USBRL
Executing agency	Konkan Railway Corporation
Seismic tolerance	Magnitude 8
Wind design speed	266 km/h
Blast resistance	40 t TNT
Temperature tolerance	−20 °C
Redundancy	Runs even if 1 of 8 piers fails
Chenab origin	Chandra+Bhaga at Tandi, HP

GS-1History

7.Bhagwan Birsa Munda Tribal Freedom Legacy (Tribal Freedom Fighter)

FPJUlgulan Movement · Khuntkatti Land · Dharti Aaba

Illustration for Bhagwan Birsa Munda Tribal Freedom Legacy (Tribal Freedom Fighter)

What & Where

Tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda; freedom-fighter, reformer; born 15 Nov 1875, Ulihatu, Chotanagpur Plateau (present Jharkhand).

Spearheaded Ulgulan (Great Tumult) 1895-1900 across Jharkhand-Odisha-Bengal against British zamindari, forced labour, forest curbs.

Created Birsait sect merging Vaishnavism with Munda ethos; spiritual plank for political mobilisation.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Freedom Struggle

Leadership: Unified tribes through drums, flags, traditional attire; stressed self-rule over Crown control.
Strategy: Employed swift guerrilla raids disrupting revenue, missionary networks.
Geographic-reach: Actions radiated from Tamar-Khunti belt to Odisha’s Mayurbhanj fringe.

Social Reform

Campaign: Denounced alcoholism, black magic; promoted agrarian ethics, collective worship.
Consciousness: Urged pride in indigenous identity, rejection of Diku (outsider) dominance.

Legal & Policy

Precedent: Ulgulan pressure catalysed Chotanagpur Tenancy Act 1908, restricting land transfer to non-tribals.
Legacy: Framework later echoed in Fifth Schedule, PESA 1996 safeguards.

Recognition & Memory

Commemoration: Statues, stamps, films; 2021 Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav highlighted contributions.
Government-push: Ongoing schemes under “Mission Janjatiya Vikas” cite his vision for inclusive development.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth	15 Nov 1875, Ulihatu
Tribe	Munda
Alias	Dharti Aaba (Father of the Earth)
Key Rebellion	Ulgulan, 1895-1900
Guerrilla Targets	Police stations, churches, outposts
Rallying Slogan	“Abua Raj setar jana, Maharani Raj tundu jana”
Sect Founded	Birsait
Arrest	1895, Jamkopai forest
Death	9 June 1900, Ranchi Jail
Legislative Impact	Chotanagpur Tenancy Act 1908 securing tribal land
National Day	15 Nov as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (since 2021)
Honorific	“Bhagwan” Birsa Munda
Key Tribes Mobilised	Munda, Oraon, Kharia
Institutions Named	Birsa Agricultural University, Birsa Institute of Technology
Core Demand	Restoration of Khuntkatti communal land tenure

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2020PYQ 1

With reference to the history of India, "Ulgulan" or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

GS-1Misc

8.ICC Cricket Hall of Fame Induction 2025 (Sports Personalities)

LiveMintMS Dhoni · ICC · Hall of Fame

What & Where

ICC Cricket Hall of Fame — global platform honouring players’ historic contributions across eras, formats and countries

Launched 2 Jan 2009 by International Cricket Council (ICC) with Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA)

Annual inductions; coverage spans all Test-playing nations, announced around flagship ICC events

Quick Facts for MCQs

Eligibility & Criteria

Waiting-period five years post last international appearance
Assessment impact, records, consistency, leadership, overall influence
Gender-neutral selection covering Tests, ODIs, T20Is

Indian Representation

Dhoni becomes 11th Indian, joins Kapil, Gavaskar, Dravid, Tendulkar, Sehwag, Kumble, Bedi, Mankad
Women honourees Diana Edulji & Neetu David inducted 2023
Indian inclusions span teams from 1950s through 2020s

Institutional Features

Recognition covers pre- & post-World War cricket eras ensuring continuity
Inclusive scope celebrates all Test nations plus emerging women cricketers
Inductees receive ceremonial cap during yearly announcement

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year	2009
Founding bodies	ICC + FICA
Initial FICA inductees absorbed	55
New names added in 2009	5
Eligibility gap after retirement	5 years
Induction frequency	Annual
Commemorative item	Hall of Fame cap
Total Indian inductees (till 2025)	11
Latest Indian inductee	MS Dhoni (2025)
Indian women honourees	2 (Diana Edulji, Neetu David)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

Who among the following is the lone Indian Cricketer included in the ICC Hall of Fame special inductions to mark the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final?

GS-3Environment

9.Gangotri National Park Ecology Overview (National Park)

Hindustan TimesBhagirathi River · Garhwal Himalayas · Snow Leopard

Illustration for Gangotri National Park Ecology Overview (National Park)

What & Where

Gangotri NP — 2,390 sq km high-altitude protected area conserving Gangotri Glacier source of Ganga

Lies in Garhwal Himalayas, upper Bhagirathi catchment, Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, bordering Tibet (China)

Adjoins Kedarnath WLS and Govind NP, hosts peaks Chaukhamba I–III, Satopanth, Kedarnath Main

Quick Facts for MCQs

Conservation Significance

Glacier-safeguard; park ensures perennial flow of Ganga headwaters
Corridor; links multiple PAs enabling genetic exchange for large mammals
Eco-Sensitive Zone; additional regulatory buffer against high-impact projects

Flora Zones

Subalpine conifers; fir, spruce, oak, deodar dominate lower slopes
Rhododendron scrub and alpine meadows occupy mid-altitudes below glacier snouts
Alpine shrublands, grasslands above 3,500 m sustain cold-adapted herbs

Faunal Highlights

Apex predator; snow leopard regulates bharal populations
Keystone herbivores; musk deer and Himalayan tahr support predator guild
Avifauna; Himalayan monal and migratory birds frequent high-altitude meadows

Current Issue

Illegal waste incinerator inside park polluting Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone
Residents allege violations of Wildlife (Protection) Act and pollution norms
Demands; immediate shutdown and stricter enforcement against unapproved facilities

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
State	Uttarakhand
District	Uttarkashi
Legal status	National Park (2000)
Area	2,390 sq km
Altitude span	~1,800 m – >7,000 m
Main river	Upper Bhagirathi
Glacier protected	Gangotri
Neighbour PAs	Kedarnath WLS; Govind NP
International boundary	Tibet (China)
Dominant forest type	Western Himalayan subalpine conifer
Alpine vegetation limit	~3,500 m
Flagship carnivore	Snow leopard
Key ungulates	Musk deer; Himalayan tahr; Blue sheep
Sensitive zone	Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS 2025PYQ 1

The Govind Ballabh Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBPNIHE) has its Headquarters at

GS-3Environment

10.Delhi E-Waste Recycling Eco Park (E-Waste Management)

NDTVHolambi Kalan · Circular Economy · DBFOT Model

What & Where

Facility: Dedicated park for scientific collection, dismantling, recycling and metal recovery from e-waste.

Location: 11.4-acre site at Holambi Kalan, North Delhi; India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park.

Model: DBFOT public-private partnership; showcases circular-economy infrastructure for replication nationwide.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Infrastructure: Collection sheds, dismantling lines, refurbishment labs, metal-recovery plant integrated on campus.
Coverage: Handles 106 categories including mobiles, laptops, industrial and solar equipment.
Training: On-site centres will skill informal recyclers in safe techniques and formal compliance.

Economic Angle

Investment: ₹150 crore expected from concessionaire for park development and operation.
Revenue: Model projects ₹350 crore turnover across 15-year concession.
Employment: Thousands of green jobs anticipated in collection, logistics, processing and refurbishing.

Environmental Impact

Hazard reduction: Eliminates landfill dumping, open acid baths and backyard burning.
Resource security: Enables recovery of precious metals, plastics, rare earths for secondary markets.
Circularity: Demonstrates urban closed-loop model supporting national circular economy targets.

Legal & Policy

Compliance: Conforms to E-Waste Management Rules 2022 extended producer and recycler responsibilities.
Governance: Delhi Environment Department supervises; DSIIDC procures concessionaire via global tender.
Replicability: Planned as template for similar parks in other states.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
State / City	Delhi / Holambi Kalan
Area	11.4 acres
Processing capacity	51,000 t e-waste per year
Categories handled	106 (E-Waste Rules 2022)
Implementation agency	DSIIDC (global RFQ-RFP)
Operating model	DBFOT-PPP
Concession period	15 years
Completion target	18 months
Estimated investment	₹150 crore
Projected revenue	₹350 crore

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

In India, ‘extended producer responsibility’ was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?

GS-3Species

11.Asafoetida Cultivation and Domestication in India (Medicinal Plant)

The HinduFerula assa-foetida · CSIR-IHBT · Cold Arid Cultivation

Illustration for Asafoetida Cultivation and Domestication in India (Medicinal Plant)

What & Where

Asafoetida / heeng: oleo-gum resin from taproot of perennial herb Ferula assa-foetida.

First Indian flowering + seed set achieved at CSIR-IHBT, Palampur (Himachal Pradesh, 1 300 m).

Native belts: cold-arid Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia; now adaptable to Himalayan high-altitude valleys.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Botanical Traits

Long-taproot stores oleoresin; fleshy root main tapping site
Winter dormancy ensures drought and cold survival
Umbelliferous inflorescence appears only in year five

Agro-Climatic Needs

Prefers cold deserts with low humidity and bright sunshine
Performs in Himalayan valleys if drainage and temperature range ensured
Sensitive to waterlogging; excess moisture rots root system

Medicinal & Cultural Uses

Ayurveda cites carminative, anti-flatulent, metabolism-stimulating actions
Referenced in Charaka Samhita, Mahabharata, Panini’s grammar works
Staple tempering spice in vegetarian Indian cuisines, especially Jain and Kashmiri

Self-Reliance Push

Domestic cultivation targets import bill of ~Rs 900 crore annually
Successful Palampur acclimatisation broadens cultivation beyond cold deserts
Tissue-culture labs and germplasm bank enable rapid farmer dissemination

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Botanical name	Ferula assa-foetida
Plant habit	Perennial, herbaceous
Resin share in dried gum	40 – 64 %
Maturation before tapping	≈5 years
Rainfall need	< 300 mm annually
Temp. tolerance	–4 °C to 40 °C
Soil preference	Sandy, well-drained
Palampur trial altitude	1 300 m
Indigenous ideal zones	Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Uttarkashi
Import dependency (historic)	100 %
Germplasm Centre setup	2022, IHBT
Dormancy phase	Extreme winters

GS-3S&T

12.Tardigrade Experiment on Axiom-4 ISS Mission (Space Biology)

Indian ExpressTardigrades · Axiom-4 Mission · Shubhanshu Shukla

Illustration for Tardigrade Experiment on Axiom-4 ISS Mission (Space Biology)

What & Where

Axiom Mission-4: 4th private crewed flight to ISS by Axiom Space aboard SpaceX Crew Dragon, launch 2025.

Crew: Peggy Whitson (USA, commander) and Shubhanshu Shukla (India, pilot) plus members from Poland, Hungary.

Venue: 14-day stay on International Space Station; Indian payload includes tardigrades, moong-dal seeds, cyanobacteria.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Mission Profile

Experiments: screen-use cognition, tardigrade resilience, seed germination, cyanobacteria photosynthesis.
Goal: validate tech for first commercial space station, lessen ISS reliance.
International crew fosters multilateral space cooperation.

Indian Significance

Gaganyaan synergy: microgravity data, crew training experience, astrobiology inputs.
Strengthens ISRO–NASA cooperation in human spaceflight.
Enhances India’s role in upcoming commercial orbital platforms.

Tardigrade Biology

Survival range: −273 °C to 150 °C, vacuum, 40 000 kPa pressure.
Mechanisms: cryptobiosis, anhydrobiosis, CAHS protein gel shielding cells.
Spin-offs: climate-resilient crops, UV-proof sunscreens, organ-preservation tech.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch window	2025
Mission length	14 days on ISS
Operator	Axiom Space (US)
Spacecraft	SpaceX Crew Dragon
Indian milestone	1st Indian to set foot on ISS
Zero-G indicator	Swan plushie “Joy”
Key biology payload	Tardigrades (water bears)
Crop study	6 varieties, focus on moong dal
Cyanobacteria test	Growth, biochemistry in microgravity
Commander	Peggy Whitson, USA
Pilot	Shubhanshu Shukla, India
Future link	Data feed into ISRO Gaganyaan 2027

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित अंतरिक्ष मिशनों पर विचार कीजिए :

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 2

India's maiden human space mission will be launched in 2023. What is its name?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

13.Saturn-Sized Exoplanet Orbiting Red Dwarf Discovery (Exoplanet Discovery)

Times of IndiaTOI-6894 · TESS · Very Large Telescope

Illustration for Saturn-Sized Exoplanet Orbiting Red Dwarf Discovery (Exoplanet Discovery)

What & Where

Exoplanet TOI-6894 b: Saturn-sized gas giant orbiting red-dwarf star TOI-6894 in Leo constellation, outside Solar System

Host star: only 21 % Sun’s mass—smallest known to carry such a massive planet, defying prevailing formation theories

Detection: NASA TESS transit data, confirmed by radial-velocity measurements on ESO’s Very Large Telescope, Chile

Quick Facts for MCQs

Planetary Formation Challenge

Anomaly; gas giant around low-mass star contradicts core-accretion models expecting only rocky planets
Result; compels revision of star-disk mass threshold assumptions in planet-formation theory

Stellar Demographics

Red dwarfs dominate Milky Way population, increasing chances of similar unexpected gas-giant systems
Longevity trillions years offers prolonged, potentially stable habitable zones around such stars

Observation & Instruments

TESS employs transit photometry, detecting brightness dips to estimate planet radius and orbital period
VLT radial-velocity data quantifies planetary mass, rules out stellar companions, confirming exoplanet nature

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Planet name	TOI-6894 b
Planet type	Gas giant
Planet size	~Saturn
Orbited star	TOI-6894
Star category	Red dwarf
Star mass	21 % Sun
Record status	Smallest star hosting Saturn-class planet
Constellation	Leo
Discovery survey	NASA TESS
Follow-up facility	ESO Very Large Telescope
Red-dwarf mass band	7.5 %–50 % Sun
Red-dwarf luminosity	0.01 %–10 % Sun
Red-dwarf lifespan	Trillions of years
Nearest red dwarf	Proxima Centauri

GS-2Editorial

14.Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy Doctrine (Foreign Policy Doctrine)

DHNon-Alignment · Panchsheel · Realpolitik Shift

Illustration for Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy Doctrine (Foreign Policy Doctrine)

What & Where

Definition: India’s foreign policy path from Nehruvian idealism to post-2025 pre-emptive counterterror stance.

Key processes: Non-alignment, Realpolitik, Nuclear deterrence, Counterterrorism retaliation, Strike-first doctrine.

Core geography: Sub-continent (Pakistan), Himalayas (China LAC), multilateral arenas (UN, Quad, BRICS).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Doctrinal Phases

Idealism: anti-colonial leadership, UN faith, moral diplomacy.
Realpolitik: hard-power prioritised, border defence upgraded, defence institutions boosted.
Assertiveness: nuclear deterrence, calibrated retaliation, codified strike-first post-2025.

Security Dimension

Pakistan proxy war: “bleeding India” strategy using non-state actors; Pahalgam 2025 latest case.
China challenge: post-Galwan LAC violations demand sustained deterrence and diplomacy.
Public signalling: visible military ops to warn adversaries and reassure domestic opinion.

Policy Prescriptions

Autonomy: realistic non-alignment with flexible partnerships (US, France, Japan, West Asia).
Indigenous defence: expand DRDO output to cut import bills.
Proactive deterrence: proportional retaliation doctrine to pre-empt cross-border terror.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Non-Alignment phase	1947–1962
Panchsheel signing	1954, with China
Trigger for Realpolitik	1962 Sino-Indian war
First nuclear test	1974, Pokhran-I
CTBT/NPT stance	Rejected to keep autonomy
Counterterror doctrine span	2000s–2019
Uri terror attack	2016, proxy war example
Operation Sindoor	2025, pre-emptive strike
Core slogan	Zero-tolerance to terror
Atmanirbhar defence tools	BrahMos, Agni, INS Arihant

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Which one of the following is not the principle of India’s Foreign Policy for Panchsheel?

ESE_GS, GS1 1997PYQ 2

Which one of the following is NOT a principle of “Panchsheel”?

GS-3Security

15.Combat Drones Transforming Modern Warfare (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)

The HinduOperation Sindoor · UCAV · Loitering Munitions

What & Where

Definition – UAV/drone: pilot-less aircraft remotely or autonomously flown; roles span ISR, strike, logistics.

Key Types – Surveillance, UCAV, Loitering munitions, Swarm, Nano; exemplars Heron, Reaper, Harpy, Nagastra-1, Black Hornet.

India – Used in Operation Sindoor (Pahalgam), Ladakh standoff; development led by DRDO, startups, tri-service commands.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Stealth – Aura adopts flying-wing design plus AI target recognition.
Sensors – EO/IR packages beam live feeds via encrypted data-links to IACCS nodes.
Swarm R&D – MoD funding AI-coordinated 20-plus drone systems for saturation strikes.

Security Dimension

Precision – Reaper killed General Soleimani without troop deployment, zero collateral.
Asymmetry – Low-cost drones threaten high-value AD assets, altering cost-benefit of war.
Psychological – Persistent overhead ISR deters movement, demoralises adversaries.

Challenges & Gaps

Vulnerability – High attrition when facing layered electromagnetic and kinetic defences.
Regulation – Fragmented civil-military rules slow seamless UAV deployment over India.
Production – Inconsistent orders deter scaling, despite 3D-printing modular potential.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Longest endurance mentioned	52 hours (select HALE platforms)
Max range cited	>7,000 km for strategic UAVs
Indian armed imports	Heron TP, MQ-9 Reaper (lease)
Indigenous stealth project	DRDO Aura/“Ghatak” UCAV
Cost asymmetry example	$2,000 quadcopter disabling Russian S-300
2020 swarm success	Azerbaijan over Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh defences
Loitering munition role	Self-destructs on radar/missile units (Harpy, Nagastra-1)
Civil-military regulation gap	No seamless airspace coordination in current Indian rules
Counter-drone methods	Jamming, spoofing, radar-guided interceptors
Key domestic startups	Idea Forge, Solar Industries

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2025PYQ 1

मानव-रहित वायु वाहन (UAV) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS1 2025PYQ 2

भारत की रक्षा के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Scheme

16.Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan Milestones (Maternal Health)

DD NewsAntenatal Care · Ministry of Health · High-Risk Pregnancy

Illustration for Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan Milestones (Maternal Health)

What & Where

Scheme: Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan provides free quality antenatal care on every 9th day across all government facilities

Geography: Nationwide coverage; extended surveillance through e-PMSMA for high-risk pregnancies till 45 days post-delivery

Governance: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare with volunteer OB-GYN, radiologists, physicians from private sector

Quick Facts for MCQs

Objectives

Coverage: ensure at least one specialist ANC in later trimesters
Detection: early identification and management of high-risk pregnancies
Tracking: name-based digital monitoring for continuous follow-up

Service Package

Single-window: ultrasound, labs, IFA, calcium, counselling delivered same visit
Tagging: coloured stickers on MCP card classify risk for quick referral
Specialists: OB-GYN led team supplements public workforce with private volunteers

Digital & Incentives

Alerts: automated SMS remind scheduled check-ups under e-PMSMA
Incentives: cash paid when three additional ANC visits completed
Monitoring: real-time portal publishes coverage and outcome dashboards

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent ministry	MoHFW
PMSMA launch	June 2016
e-PMSMA launch	Jan 2022
Fixed ANC day	9th of every month
Minimum specialist ANC	≥ 1 in 2nd/3rd trimester
Risk tag colours	Green = no risk; Red = HRP
HRP follow-up	Up to 45 days postpartum
Digital tools	National portal + mobile app
SMS alerts sent to	Pregnant woman & ASHA
Extra incentivised ANC visits	3 beyond standard
Cash incentive beneficiaries	Woman + ASHA
Max monthly sessions in vulnerable areas	4

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2024PYQ 1

With reference to the ‘Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan’, consider the following statements:

GS1 2023PYQ 2

जननी सुरक्षा योजना के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Scheme

17.Goa Achieves Full Functional Literacy Under ULLAS (Adult Literacy Program)

PIBFunctional Literacy · ULLAS Scheme · NEP 2020

Illustration for Goa Achieves Full Functional Literacy Under ULLAS (Adult Literacy Program)

What & Where

Functional literacy – ability to use reading-writing-numeracy for daily, civic and economic tasks

ULLAS / New India Literacy Programme – 2022-27 centrally sponsored adult-literacy scheme for 15 + non-scholars

Goa – Konkan coastal state, west of Western Ghats; capital Panaji

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Digital-access; DIKSHA provides multilingual e-content, quizzes, certification
Volunteerism focus; promotes Kartavya Bodh and community ownership
Hybrid delivery; offline teaching aids supplemented by QR-linked resources

Geography & History

Liberation; Operation Vijay freed Goa, Daman, Diu in Dec 1961
Statehood; Goa became India’s 25th state on 30 May 1987
Commemorations; 19 Dec Goa Liberation Day, 30 May Statehood Day

Targets & Benchmarks

FLNAT certification mandatory for recognising functional literacy
95 % threshold aligns with UNESCO functional literacy standards
Outcome monitoring via periodic ULLAS surveys and PLFS cross-verification

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Goa functional literacy status	Declared Full-Functionally-Literate Jun 2025
Literacy benchmark used	≥ 95 % functionally literate
PLFS 2023-24 Goa literacy	93.60 %
First full-functional literate state	Mizoram
First UT achieving same	Ladakh
Scheme full name	ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram
Earlier name	Adult Education Programme
Scheme span	FY 2022-27
Target learners	5 crore (1 crore/year)
Age eligibility	15 years +
Five components	FLN, Critical Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills, Continuing Education
Implementation style	Volunteer-based hybrid (online + offline)
Digital platforms	DIKSHA & ULLAS portal/app
Language support	22 Indian languages
Assessment	FLNAT in local schools, twice a year

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