Thursday, 10 July 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (c) केवल 1 और 3. This question appeared in GS1 2020.

Q: भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (d) न तो 1, न ही 2. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (b) केवल 2 और 3. This question appeared in GS1 2019.

Q: Consider the following activities:

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

Q: भारतीय अर्थव्यवस्था के संदर्भ में, 'मुद्रास्फीति-संलग्न बांड (Inflation-Indexed Bonds — IIBs)' के क्या लाभ हैं?

The correct answer is (a) केवल 1 और 2. This question appeared in GS1 2022.

Q: भारत की नदियों के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

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

Q: The Narmada river flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2013.

Q: In which of the following regions of India are you “most likely” to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?

The correct answer is (d) Western Ghats. This question appeared in GS1 2016.

Q: Consider the following pairs:

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

Q: G-20 is a forum of countries that intends to promote global economic stability and sustainable growth. Which among the following group of countries DOES NOT form a part of the forum?

The correct answer is (d) Ireland, New Zealand, Sweden. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2021.

16 topicsGS-1: 3GS-2: 5GS-3: 8

0/16 done

GS-2Editorial

1.Enhancing Legislative Productivity in India (Parliament Functioning)

PIBSitting days decline · Committee referral rate · Quorum

Illustration for Enhancing Legislative Productivity in India (Parliament Functioning)

What & Where

Concept: Legislative productivity = efficiency of lawmaking, oversight, budget approval, debate in Parliament & State Legislatures

Scope: Applies to Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, 28 State Assemblies, 6 Councils; cascades to ULB councils

Metrics: Sitting days, debate hours, committee scrutiny, disruption minutes, member attendance

Quick Facts for MCQs

Current Decline

Sittings: Budget sessions among shortest since 1952, routine quorum strains
Scrutiny: Committee referrals plummeted from 71% (15th) to 10% (17th)
Participation: Debate quality hit despite 79% attendance

Governance Impact

Oversight: Limited Question Hour weakens executive accountability
Lawmaking: Hasty passage raises risk of judicial invalidation & poor implementation
Trust: Perceived dysfunction fuels voter apathy and legitimacy loss

Existing Measures

Code: Mandatory conduct rules and suspension powers for disorder
Tech: NeVA, live-streaming, e-notice systems boost transparency
Committees: 24 DRSCs provide sectoral scrutiny though under-used recently

Suggested Reforms

Calendar: Statutory minimum sitting days and pre-announced annual agenda
Mandate: Compulsory committee vetting of all major Bills, pre-legislative consultation papers
Transparency: Real-time dashboards on attendance, voting, disruptions; stronger RTI coverage

International Examples

IPU norms: Benchmarks on inclusivity, open data adopted worldwide
UK/German practice: Fixed sitting weeks, obligatory committee stage for every Bill
OECD parliaments: Public performance scorecards inspire accountability drives

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
1st vs 17th Lok Sabha sitting days	135 days → ≈55 days per year
2023 Budget Session working time	Lok Sabha 33%, Rajya Sabha 24%
Bills sent to committees, 17th LS	10% (14 Bills)
Bills sent to committees, 14th LS	60%
Avg MP attendance, 17th LS	79%
Avg debates per MP, 17th LS	45
Question Hour utilisation, 17th LS	LS 19%, RS 9%
Private Member Bills passed post-1970	Nil (last in 1970)
Joint sittings held since 1950	Three
Time lost to disruptions, 15th LS	>30%

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2020PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS1 2017PYQ 2

भारत की संसद के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-2Polity

2.Draft Petroleum and Gas Rules 2025 (Petroleum Regulations)

Financial ExpressStabilisation clause · Third-party access · Carbon capture mandate

Illustration for Draft Petroleum and Gas Rules 2025 (Petroleum Regulations)

What & Where

Draft-Rules; MoPNG proposal modernising India’s upstream oil & gas regulation, titled Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules, 2025

Key-Processes; Stabilisation clause, third-party pipeline access, renewables integration, dedicated adjudication, data governance

Geography; Applies across all Indian onshore, offshore blocks, pipelines and associated facilities

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Stabilisation-Clause; Shields investors from fiscal changes, enhancing certainty
Contract-Reforms; New MRSC enables lease merger, reservoir unitisation, easy relinquishment
Adjudication; Dedicated authority empowered to penalise, resolve disputes swiftly

Environmental Norms

GHG-Monitoring; Continuous emissions tracking compulsory for all leases
CCS-Mandate; Operators must plan carbon capture and storage readiness
Restoration-Fund; Lessees finance closure, monitored additional five years

Economic Angle

Investment-Pull; Stable regime expected to boost FDI in exploration and production
Infrastructure-Sharing; Monetises underused pipelines, slashes duplicative capex
Transition-Synergy; Hybrid oilfields can co-produce green hydrogen aiding net-zero targets

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Year of draft	2025
Replacing rules	PCR 1949 & PNG 1959
Stabilisation clause	Compensation if taxes/royalties rise
Third-party access	Mandatory sharing of idle capacity
Allowed renewables	Solar, wind, hydrogen, geothermal
Data confidentiality	Govt owned; 7-year external embargo
Post-closure monitoring	5 years via restoration fund
Adjudicating Authority	Joint Secretary rank
Oil & gas energy share	≈35 % of India’s mix
Next bidding round	OALP Round X

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS1 2025PYQ 2

Consider the following activities:

GS-3Economy

3.Catastrophe Bonds Disaster Financing (Disaster Financing)

The HinduInsurance-linked securities · Trigger event payout · High-yield coupons

What & Where

Definition Catastrophe bonds are insurance-linked securities shifting natural-hazard losses to global investors

Process Sponsor pays premium; bond issued; parametric trigger decides if principal moves to sponsor or returns to investors

Geography Pitched for India/South Asia but marketed worldwide via World Bank, ADB platforms

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Budget Shield reduces post-disaster fiscal shocks and borrowing needs
Investor Base attracts pension funds seeking uncorrelated, high-return instruments
Regional Pool proposal could lower premiums for multiple South Asian nations

Operational Features

Trigger Design uses real-time data for rapid, rule-based disbursal
Independence Natural peril risk decoupled from business cycles, enabling diversification
Coupon Payments continue until trigger event or bond maturity

Challenges

Coverage Narrow parameters may deny payout despite heavy damage
Perception Unused bonds invite criticism over high upfront premiums
Accuracy Requires granular hazard data and robust catastrophe modelling

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Sponsor entity	Government or insurance company
Typical intermediaries	World Bank, Asian Development Bank
Investor lure	High-yield coupon uncorrelated with equity markets
Trigger style	Parametric metrics like ≥7.0 Mw quake, wind speed
Payout flow	Investor principal diverted to relief, recovery
Maturity outcome	No disaster → principal repaid plus coupons
Diversification benefit	Portfolio hedge against market-driven assets
Notable risk	Payout gap if event falls outside trigger band
Political concern	Premiums seen wasteful when disaster absent
Data need	Transparent actuarial and hazard modelling essential

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2022PYQ 1

भारतीय अर्थव्यवस्था के संदर्भ में, 'मुद्रास्फीति-संलग्न बांड (Inflation-Indexed Bonds — IIBs)' के क्या लाभ हैं?

GS-1Mapping

4.Mahi River Westward Flow (Indian River)

LiveMintVindhya Range origin · West-flowing peninsular river · Kadana Dam

Illustration for Mahi River Westward Flow (Indian River)

What & Where

West-flowing peninsular river originating in Vindhyan hills, traversing MP–Rajasthan–Gujarat into Gulf of Khambhat

Cuts Tropic of Cancer twice, rare among Indian rivers; culturally revered as Mahisagar

Recent Gambhira bridge collapse on 9 July 2025 near Vadodara caused 9 fatalities

Quick Facts for MCQs

Infrastructure

Dams: Mahi Bajaj Sagar (Rajasthan), Kadana (Gujarat), Wanakbori Weir regulate irrigation, power
Bridge network spans river; Gambhira section collapse highlights maintenance gaps

Unique Geography

West-flowing course contrasts most Deccan rivers draining eastward
Dual Tropic crossings create inverted-S path shaping floodplain diversity

Disaster Event

Collapse date 9 July 2025; multiple vehicles plunged, nine dead
Site: Mujpur stretch, Vadodara district; rescue focused on submerged cars, two-wheelers

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Origin	Minda village, Dhar (MP), ~500 m asl
Total length	583 km
Drainage basin	34,842 sq km
States traversed	MP, Rajasthan, Gujarat
Mouth	Arabian Sea via Gulf of Khambhat
Mouth type	Wide estuary
Major dams	Mahi Bajaj Sagar, Kadana, Wanakbori Weir
Tropic of Cancer crossings	Two
Collapsed bridge	Gambhira bridge, Mujpur, Vadodara

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 1

भारत की नदियों के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए:

CDS_GK, GS1 2013PYQ 2

The Narmada river flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?

GS-1Mapping

5.Tarragona Province Mediterranean Geography (Spanish Province)

DD NewsCatalonia · Ebro River valley · Mediterranean wildfires

Illustration for Tarragona Province Mediterranean Geography (Spanish Province)

What & Where

Tarragona — coastal province, southern Catalonia, NE Spain, on Mediterranean Sea; famous for Roman sites and natural landscapes.

Massive June wildfire burned ≈3,000 ha forest, compelled indoor lockdown for >18,000 residents.

Region mixes Ebro River valley with Catalan ranges; Mediterranean climate gives hot, dry, highly fire-prone summers.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Geography & Resources

Topography: Catalan ranges & Pauls Mountains create steep, road-scarce terrain.
Agriculture: cereals, grapes, fruits, olives, hemp, silk rely on Ebro irrigation.
Minerals: copper, lead, silver, limestone, marble quarried across province.

Disaster Drivers

Heatwave: Spain’s hottest June on record desiccated vegetation to flash-fuel levels.
Wind: Mistral gusts 90 km/h rapidly expanded firefront.
Climate: cyclic hot, dry Mediterranean summers elevate wildfire frequency.

Operational Challenges

Access: rugged slopes and dense pine forests slowed ground crews.
Safety: authorities opted for stay-indoors order over mass evacuation.
Air support: mountain-induced turbulence hindered aerial water drops.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Province	Tarragona
Country	Spain
Autonomous region	Catalonia
Coastline	Mediterranean Sea
Major river	Ebro
Mountain belts	Catalan ranges, Pauls Mts.
Area burnt	~3,000 ha
People in lockdown	>18,000
Peak wind gusts	Up to 90 km/h (Mistral)
Key natural park hit	Ports Natural Park

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

6.Pethia dibrugarhensis New Cyprinid Fish (New Fish Species)

CIFRICyprinidae family · Brahmaputra River · Dibrugarh Assam

What & Where

Pethia dibrugarhensis – new cyprinid “barb” recorded 2025 in Brahmaputra at Dibrugarh, Assam.

Occurs in moderately fast, muddy-sandy-stony stretches of the Brahmaputra River basin.

Work led by ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore; river rises at Chemayungdung Glacier, flows Tibet-India-Bangladesh.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biodiversity Significance

Discovery enriches cyprinid diversity within Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.
Adds data for conservation planning of Brahmaputra aquatic fauna.
Highlights need for habitat protection amid hydrological alteration threats.

Morphological Traits

Incomplete lateral line aids swift manoeuvring in turbulent reaches.
Black caudal peduncle blotch critical for species identification in field surveys.
Lack of barbels separates it from many other Indian barbs.

Institutional Framework

ICAR-CIFRI mandates sustainable inland open-water fisheries research and capacity building.
Works under Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Ministry of Agriculture.
Generates livelihood models like cage culture and river ranching.

River System

Brahmaputra seventh-largest discharge globally; monsoon swells foster rich fish diversity.
Majuli erosion and flood pulses influence spawning habitats.
Multiple snow-fed and rain-fed tributaries sustain year-round flow regime.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Taxonomic family	Cyprinidae
Genus–species	Pethia dibrugarhensis
Named after	Dibrugarh district, Assam
Humeral mark	Absent
Barbels	Absent
Lateral line	Incomplete
Diagnostic blotch	Near caudal peduncle
Habitat speed	Moderately fast flow
Substrate type	Muddy–sandy–stony
Discovery body	ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute
ICAR-CIFRI HQ	Barrackpore, West Bengal
CIFRI establishment	1947
River Tibetan name	Yarlung Tsangpo
Arunachal name	Siang / Dihang
Source glacier	Chemayungdung near Mansarovar
Largest river island	Majuli, Assam
Countries traversed	China, India, Bangladesh
Key Indian tributary	Subansiri (others: Lohit, Dibang etc.)

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

7.Great Hornbill Rare Sighting (Great Hornbill)

The HinduBuceros bicornis · State bird Kerala · Western Ghats habitat

What & Where

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis); large, yellow-casqued, predominantly frugivorous bird of Bucerotidae.

Core range: Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas, Northeast & parts of Central India; also Bhutan-Indonesia.

July 2025: rarely recorded coastal sighting at Kannur, Kerala.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Habitat & Ecology

Habitat: tropical/sub-tropical evergreen, moist deciduous forests requiring old-growth tree cavities.
Nesting: monogamous pairs reuse large cavities; reliant on intact canopy.
Coastal presence: anomalous, indicating dispersal or habitat pressure inland.

Cultural Significance

Symbolism: most revered bird among Nagas; festival promotes tribal heritage.
Emblem: official state bird for Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh; featured in logos, literature.
Vernacular identity: Malayalam name “Malamuzhakki Vezhambal” reflects local cultural association.

Threats & Conservation

Hunting: casque, feathers, meat drive direct persecution.
Deforestation: logging removes nesting trees, fragments foraging habitat.
Protection: IUCN VU, CITES I, WPA Schedule I impose trade ban, stringent penalties.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Family	Bucerotidae
Average length	95–120 cm
Average weight	≈3 kg
Elevation range	600–2000 m
Primary diet	Fruits; hunts small animals
Behaviour	Arboreal, diurnal, non-migratory
IUCN status	Vulnerable
CITES listing	Appendix I
Indian law	WPA 1972 – Schedule I
Indian state bird	Kerala & Arunachal Pradesh
Named festival	Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

In which of the following regions of India are you “most likely” to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?

GS1 2010PYQ 2

Consider the following pairs:

GS-3S&T

8.Optical Atomic Clock Standard Revision (Optical Clocks)

The HinduStrontium-87 · Ytterbium-171 · Redefining the second

Illustration for Optical Atomic Clock Standard Revision (Optical Clocks)

What & Where

Optical atomic clock – next-generation device using optical-frequency atomic transitions for ultra-precise timekeeping

Key references – Sr-87, Yb-171, Yb⁺(E2/E3), Sr⁺-88, In⁺-115 selected for stable electronic lines

Geography – 65-member team linked labs in Europe, Asia, North America for largest clock comparison

Quick Facts for MCQs

Working Principle

Optical-lattice traps or ion traps immobilise atoms, minimise Doppler shifts
Laser excitation matched to atomic transition; counting optical cycles realises the “second”
GPS-disciplined clocks act as holdover during maintenance gaps

Advantages

Frequency-multiple – optical lines 10,000× faster than caesium microwaves
Stability – sub-10⁻¹⁸ noise enables geodesy and gravitational red-shift tests
Application-range – boosts GNSS accuracy, climate monitoring, quantum networks, deep-space navigation

International Collaboration

Consortium – PTB Germany, SYRTE France, NICT Japan, INRIM Italy, VTT Finland, NPL UK among others
Infrastructure – intercontinental 1,799 km fibre plus GPS common-view ensured synchronous read-outs
Outcome – identified systematic offsets, validating readiness for SI-second redefinition

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Operating frequency	≈10¹⁵ Hz (optical band)
Relative precision	10⁻¹⁶ – 10⁻¹⁸
Drift rate	1 s in 15 billion years
Experiment duration	45 days
Participating continents	Europe, Asia, North America
Reference atoms/ions	Sr-87, Yb-171, Yb⁺, Sr⁺-88, In⁺-115
Link technology	Optical fibre + GPS time transfer
Target year to redefine second	2030

GS-3S&T

9.World Bioproduct Day and BioE3 Policy (Bioeconomy Policy)

PIBBioE3 framework · USD 300-billion goal · iBRIC+

What & Where

Bioproducts = fuels, chemicals, materials sourced from renewable biomass via biotech routes like fermentation, pyrolysis, enzymatic conversion.

Key categories: biofuels, bioplastics, bio-based chemicals/cosmetics, plant-derived therapeutics.

Indian focus nodes: iBRIC+ platform, BioE3 policy hubs, 13-institution BRIC network under DBT.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

BioE3 provisions: Bio-AI hubs, biofoundries, global regulatory alignment, ethical biosafety mandates.
Strategy linkage: complements National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2020-25, Biopharma & Atal Jai Anusandhan missions.
Workforce clause: skilling focus on Tier-II/III cities using local biomass.

Tech & Schemes

iBRIC+ role: multi-stakeholder accelerator strengthening regional innovation ecosystems for sustainable biomanufacturing.
BRIC aim: governance parity, NEP-aligned interdisciplinary R&D, mission convergence.
Carbon Capture & Utilization promoted as dedicated BioE3 thrust area.

Environmental Impact

Bioproduct substitution cuts fossil-fuel dependence, aiding air-quality, biodiversity, deforestation targets.
Alignment with Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) encourages circular, resource-efficient consumer behaviour.
Climate-resilient agriculture theme backs adaptive farming under changing rainfall and temperature regimes.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
World Bioproduct Day launch	2021, by World Bioeconomy Forum
2025 India event hosts	DST + BIRAC + iBRIC+
2030 bioeconomy target	USD 300 billion
iBRIC+ parent ministry	Department of Biotechnology
BRIC coverage	13 DBT institutes, one governance frame
BioE3 full form	Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, Employment
BioE3 launch year	2024
LiFE linkage	Supports regenerative bioeconomy models
Core BioE3 themes	6 (Bio-chemicals, Smart proteins, Precision biotherapeutics, Climate-resilient agri, CCU, Marine/Space)
Bioproduct feedstocks	Crops, forestry/agri waste, algae, mycelium

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

10.Vera C Rubin Observatory First Images (Rubin Observatory)

Indian ExpressSimonyi Survey Telescope · 3200-MP camera · Dark matter research

What & Where

Observatory site: Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Cerro Pachón, Chile, 8 684 ft a.s.l.

Mission: continuous wide-field survey of southern night sky via Simonyi Survey Telescope

Status: first test images captured July 2025 with 3 200-MP camera

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology Highlights

Wide-field optics outperform Hubble (1 %) and JWST (75 %) in single-shot coverage
Fastest-slewing mount enables near-real-time tracking of transient phenomena
3 200-MP digital imager provides highest pixel count ever deployed in astronomy

Scientific Goals

Cosmology: constrain dark energy 68 % and dark matter 27 % of Universe composition
Solar System: hunt for hypothetical Ninth Planet; map potentially hazardous asteroids
Galactic studies: reconstruct Milky Way formation through deep, time-domain imaging

Historical Context

Namesake Vera C. Rubin first supplied rotational-curve evidence for dark matter in 1970s
Observatory honors groundbreaking female contributions to astrophysics

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Location	Cerro Pachón, Chile
Elevation	8 684 ft (≈2 648 m)
Primary instrument	Simonyi Survey Telescope
Field of view	Area equal to 40 full Moons
Camera size	3 200 megapixels (world’s largest)
Slewing speed	Re-positions in 5 s
Faintness limit	Detects objects 100 million × dimmer than naked eye
Sky coverage vs Hubble	40 × larger (Hubble 1 % of Rubin view)
Named after	Vera C. Rubin, dark-matter evidence (1970s)

GS-2Editorial

11.India’s Global South Outreach (Global South)

DHBrandt Line concept · Five-nation tour · South-South cooperation

Illustration for India’s Global South Outreach (Global South)

What & Where

Global South: developing/emerging nations in Asia-Africa-Latin America-Oceania seeking fair voice in global governance

Concept emerged 1960s; Brandt Line (1980) popularised North-South economic divide

India’s 2024 five-nation tour (Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, Namibia) deepened outreach to this bloc

Quick Facts for MCQs

Development Challenges

Climate impact: highest vulnerability despite lowest per-capita emissions
Debt stress: pandemic + inflation intensified external repayment crises
Digital gap: limited AI, fintech access widening prosperity divide

India Initiatives

Diplomatic voice: championed AU in G20, convened Voice of GS summits
Tech exports: Digital Public Infrastructure, telemedicine, CDRI climate-resilient projects
Balanced positions: maintained strategic autonomy on Gaza, Iran within BRICS

Strategic Partnerships

Ghana: rare-earth mining, Gulf of Guinea maritime security cooperation
Argentina: KABIL lithium exploration ensuring EV battery supply chain resilience
Brazil/Namibia: defence hardware, biofuels, UPI fintech, critical minerals

Reform Agenda

UNSC/WTO/IMF: India pressing for quota, seat, and rule-making overhaul
South-South finance: expansion through NDB, ISA, Exim credit lines
Proposed permanent Global South forum to coordinate negotiating stance

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
G77 membership	134 countries
NAM membership	120 nations
African CO₂ share	< 4 % of global emissions
China share in rare-earth processing	~70 %
Voice of Global South Summits	Jan 2023 & Nov 2024 (virtual, India-hosted)
African Union G20 entry	Secured during India G20 Presidency 2023
Lithium MoU	KABIL-Argentina, Catamarca province
UPI international launch	Namibia, 2024
Defence interest by Brazil	Akash surface-to-air missile system
Debt default examples	Sri Lanka 2022, Zambia 2020

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

G-20 is a forum of countries that intends to promote global economic stability and sustainable growth. Which among the following group of countries DOES NOT form a part of the forum?

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2023PYQ 2

निम्नलिखित में से भारत की G20 प्राथमिकताएँ क्या हैं?

GS-2Editorial

12.Five Pillars India-Brazil Partnership (India-Brazil Ties)

PIBStrategic partnership 2006 · Grand Collar award · Cybersecurity dialogue

What & Where

India–Brazil Strategic Partnership: launched 2006; revitalised July 2025 state visit, Brasilia.

Geography: connects South Asia and South America; pillar-based engagement across defence, energy, tech, trade, food.

Multilateral setting: ties overlap BRICS, G20, Global South forums; India chairs BRICS 2026.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Defence & Security

Agreement on Exchange & Protection of Classified Information plus pact on Combating Terrorism and Transnational Crime.
Mechanisms: Joint Defence Committee, 2+2 Political-Military Dialogue first held 2024.

Economic Angle

Target USD 20 billion trade within 5 years; focus diversify beyond crude, sugar, petrochemicals.
Tools: 2020 Investment Cooperation Treaty, 2022 Double-Taxation Protocol, proposed Brazil-India Business Council.

Energy & Climate

Biofuel synergy: ethanol blending tech; support Global Biofuels Alliance expansion.
India backs Brazil’s COP30 Presidency and Tropical Forests Forever Fund.

Tech & Innovation

Joint Commission on S&T to cover digital public infrastructure, AI, quantum, space.
New Cybersecurity Dialogue for threat intel and capacity building.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Brazil honour to Indian PM	Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross
Five priority pillars	Defence-Security, Food-Agri, Energy-Climate, Digital-Tech, Industrial Partnerships
Bilateral trade 2024-25	USD 12.2 billion
Indian investments in Brazil	≈ USD 6 billion
Defence Cooperation Agreement	Signed 2003, ratified 2006
Amazonia-1 launch	ISRO PSLV, 2021
Global Biofuels Alliance	Co-founded 2023, both founding members
Next BRICS Summit	India, 2026 (18th edition)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2026PYQ 1

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

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2020PYQ 2

BRICS Summit, 2020 will be hosted by

GS-2Misc

13.Namibia Welwitschia Civilian Honour (Civilian Honour)

PIBOrder of Welwitschia Mirabilis · Highest Namibian award · Prime Minister state visit

Illustration for Namibia Welwitschia Civilian Honour (Civilian Honour)

What & Where

Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis – Namibia’s apex civilian decoration for extraordinary foreign contribution.

Named after Welwitschia mirabilis, a hardy Namib Desert plant living >1,000 years, symbolising endurance.

Bestowed in Windhoek by the President of Namibia; India’s PM is the first Indian awardee.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Diplomatic Significance

Milestone: First Indian leader honoured, cementing South-South partnership.
Recognition: Highlights India–Namibia cooperation across minerals, defence, health, fintech.

Strategic Minerals

Resources: Namibia hosts uranium, rare earths, oil, copper reserves coveted for clean-energy supply chains.
Engagement: India negotiating exploration, offtake and tech transfer for strategic security.

Defence & Security

Cooperation: Talks cover defence manufacturing, maritime domain awareness, joint training.
Multilateral: Namibia joined Indian-initiated CDRI platform for disaster-resilient infrastructure.

Tech & Health Collaboration

Fintech: UPI technology licensing underway for Namibian digital payments rollout.
Social sectors: MoUs signed on healthcare, pharmaceuticals, entrepreneurship capacity-building.

Conservation Efforts

Wildlife: Namibia enabled Project Cheetah, translocating African cheetahs to Kuno National Park.
Symbolism: Conservation links reinforce shared ecological stewardship narrative.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Award tier	Highest civilian honour of Namibia
Conferred by	President H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
Namesake plant	Welwitschia mirabilis (Namib Desert)
Plant lifespan	More than 1,000 years
Symbolism	Durability, trusted friendship
First Indian recipient	Prime Minister of India
Venue	State visit to Windhoek
Core bilateral era	Post-independence, 1990-present

GS-3Security

14.Indigenous MALE Surveillance Drones (MALE Drones)

Economic Times30-hour endurance · 35 · 000-ft altitude

Illustration for Indigenous MALE Surveillance Drones (MALE Drones)

What & Where

MALE drones = unmanned aerial vehicles flying up to ~35,000 ft for >30 hr, suited for ISR & limited strikes.

₹20,000 cr fast-track order for 87 indigenously built units under Make in India.

Deployment eyed along India-Pakistan/China borders and Indian Ocean littoral for round-the-clock surveillance.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Make in India push ensures majority local subsystems, reducing import dependence.
Payload: EO/IR sensors, maritime radar, optional precision munitions enable day-night target tracking.
Ground stations employ encrypted SATCOM/LOS links for remote control and live data relay.

Security Dimension

Continuous watch over LAC, LoC, coastal EEZ deters incursions and hostile naval moves.
Tri-services integration supplies real-time common operating picture for Army, Navy, Air Force commanders.
Persistent eyes aid counter-insurgency in Naxal belts, Northeast, J&K.

Economic Angle

Large domestic order spurs drone supply-chain, MSME participation, skilled jobs.
Forex savings by replacing costly Israeli imports strengthen Defence Budget efficiency.
Indigenous MALE capability positions India for future UAV exports under DPEPP-2020.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Altitude ceiling	~35,000 ft
Endurance	>30 hr
Units cleared	87 drones
Approved cost	₹20,000 crore
Indigenous content	>60 %
Previous supplier	Israeli firms
Core role	ISR & limited combat

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-3Security

15.Indigenous Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (Anti-Submarine Weapon)

Times of IndiaERASR · DRDO development · Twin rocket motor

Illustration for Indigenous Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (Anti-Submarine Weapon)

What & Where

Weapon: Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) is an indigenous underwater strike rocket by DRDO

Locale: User trials fired from INS Kavaratti with Indigenous Rocket Launchers in Indian Ocean waters

Target: Neutralises hostile submarines across short and long ranges

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology Features

Propulsion: Twin-motor design enables both short and long engagement envelopes
Fuze: Electronic timing made in India ensures precise depth detonation
Integration: Fits frontline warships using Indian 212 mm rocket launchers

Trial Outcomes

Validation: 17 rockets fired under simulated combat conditions from INS Kavaratti
Performance: All shots met range, fuze reliability, warhead detonation criteria
Readiness: Indian Navy declared system combat-ready after user evaluation

Indigenisation Drive

Atmanirbharta: Replaces costly ASW imports and conserves defence budget
Ecosystem: Showcases DRDO–Navy synergy in high-tech maritime weapons
Scalability: Design ready for mass production across multiple frontline ships

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Developer	DRDO
User arm	Indian Navy
Launch platform	Warships with Indigenous Rocket Launchers
Propulsion	Twin rocket motor system
Fuzing	Indigenous electronic time fuze
Trial ship	INS Kavaratti
Rockets tested	17
Core role	Extended-range anti-submarine warfare

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CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following is correct about ‘Pinaka’?

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Ministry of Defence signed contract with which one of the following organizations for Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) and other equipment for around 3000 crores?

GS-1Scheme

16.PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan Learning Report (Student Assessment)

The HinduPARAKH · Competency-based survey · NCERT

Illustration for PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan Learning Report (Student Assessment)

What & Where

PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan = national, competency-based student assessment replacing National Achievement Survey.

Conducted Dec 2024 by NCERT under PARAKH, Ministry of Education.

Covers Grades 3-6-9; subjects: language, maths, EVS/science; all States/UTs sampled.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Learning Outcomes

Language: G-3 60 % read small stories; G-9 54 % extract editorial ideas.
Mathematics: G-3 55 % number ordering; G-6 38 % daily sums; G-9 28 % percentage use.
Science/EVS: G-6 44 % observe-describe nature; G-9 34 % identify living traits.

Geographical Spread

Consistent toppers: Punjab, Kerala, Himachal, Chandigarh, DNH&DD in all three grades.
Persistently weak: Garo Hills, Shi Yomi, Reasi, Rajouri, Sahebganj.
Regional gaps widen at higher grades, notably in maths & science.

School-Type Trends

Grade 3: Kendriya Vidyalayas lowest in maths.
Grade 6: State-run & aided schools weakest in maths.
Grade 9: Kendriya Vidyalayas best in language.

Governance

Mandate: Track competency gains vis-à-vis NEP 2020 benchmarks.
Method: Low-stakes, sample-based, competency-linked test items.
Positioning: PARAKH to act as national assessment regulator.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Apex body	PARAKH (NCERT)
Former name	National Achievement Survey
Survey month-year	December 2024
Grades assessed	3, 6, 9
Core subjects	Language, Mathematics, Science/EVS
Top States/UTs	Punjab, Kerala, Himachal, Chandigarh, DNH&DD
Low districts	Garo Hills, Shi Yomi, Reasi, Rajouri, Sahebganj
G-3 maths: order ≤99	55 % correct
G-6 daily arithmetic	38 % correct
G-9 apply percentages	28–31 % correct

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CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2023PYQ 1

शिक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा वर्ष 2020-2021 के लिए प्रकाशित प्रदर्शन ग्रेडिंग सूचकांक (PGI) में, निम्नलिखित में से किस राज्य/संघ राज्य-क्षेत्र का स्थान शीर्ष दस में शामिल नहीं है?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 2

good quality elementary education conforming P

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