UPSC Current Affairs 17 July 2025

Q: Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both?

The correct answer is (d) Gram Sabha. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2013.

Q: Which one of the following statements is not true with regard to tribal welfare?

The correct answer is (d) The Special Central Assistance to Tribal Subplan provides dairy cows to tribal groups living below the poverty line.. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, GS1 2022.

Q: Which one of the following statements about the composition of the Parliament is not correct?

The correct answer is (d) Lok Sabha has seats reserved for SCs and STs.. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: Which one of the following statements about the Parliament of India is correct ?

The correct answer is (a) A majority of members of Rajya Sabha are elected by a system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: Recently, ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) has developed the world's first genome-edited rice varieties. Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to the developed products?

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2025.

Q: Match the cities labelled as 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 in the given map with the names of the institutes located in these cities and select the correct answer using the codes given below the names of the institutes.

The correct answer is (a) A-5, B-1, C-3, D-2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2000.

Q: Which one of the following is the first and the oldest Government-owned coal mining company in India?

The correct answer is (a) Neyveli Lignite Corporation. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2022.

Q: With reference to the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA), which of the following statements is/are correct?

The correct answer is (c) Both 1 and 2. This question appeared in CDS_GK, GS1 2015.

Q: Who amongst the following will be at more risk with respect to the earthquake hazard zone specified by the Geological Survey of India?

The correct answer is (a) Shahji at Secunderabad. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2021.

Q: The extent of damage caused by earthquake is not influenced by which one of the following?

The correct answer is (d) Climate of the area. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2021.

GS-2Polity

1.Chhattisgarh CFRR Directive Withdrawal (Forest Rights Act)

The HinduCFRR · FRA 2006 · Gram Sabha

What & Where

CFRR – Section 3(1)(i), Forest Rights Act 2006; legal right of STs/OTFDs to manage customary forest resource.

Governance via Gram Sabha inside mapped community forest boundary; includes protection, regeneration, NTFP use.

July 2025: Chhattisgarh withdrew order making Forest Dept nodal; clash with National Working Plan Code 2023.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Primacy – FRA overrides Indian Forest Act within CFR areas; Gram Sabha holds final say.
NWPC 2023 criticised for timber-centric, top-down approach undermining community rights.
Court watch – SC decisions insist executive cannot dilute FRA without legislation.

Governance Tools

Finance Commission urged dedicated devolution to CFR Gram Sabhas for conservation works.
Dharti Aaba Abhiyan provides iterative template for Gram Sabha forest management plans.
Odisha, Maharashtra using GIS dashboards; demand for national CFR tracker.

Conservation & Livelihood

NTFP trade (bamboo, honey, herbs) legally shifts profits to resident communities.
Community plans adaptive to climate variability, unlike 10-year static working plans.
Empowered villagers curb illegal logging, mining, enhancing biodiversity and carbon stocks.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent law	FRA 2006
Section granting CFRR	3(1)(i)
Eligible groups	Scheduled Tribes & Other Traditional Forest Dwellers
Statutory governing body	Gram Sabha
Nodal ministry for FRA	Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Conflicting code	National Working Plan Code 2023
Key livelihood provision	Ownership of Minor Forest Produce
Supreme Court support case	Wildlife First v. MoEFCC 2019

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2013PYQ 1

Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2022PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements is not true with regard to tribal welfare?

GS-2PolityQuick Bite

2.Four Nominated Rajya Sabha Members (Nominated Members)

Indian ExpressArticle 80 · Presidential Nomination · Harsh Shringla

What & Where

Rajya Sabha = Council of States; upper House of Parliament under Article 80, permanent, indirect election + Presidential nomination.

Two entry routes: 238 elected by MLAs via Proportional Representation-STV; 12 nominated for excellence in literature, science, art, social service.

Seats to states allotted by population; elections use open ballot to curb cross-voting.

Quick Facts for MCQs

House Composition

Allocation example: Uttar Pradesh 31 seats; Goa 1; UTs Delhi-3, Puducherry-1.
Nominated category expansively interprets art to include sports icons e.g., Tendulkar, Mary Kom.
No upper limit on re-election/renomination for retiring members.

Election Mechanics

Preferential ballot: MLAs rank candidates; surplus votes sequentially transferred until all seats filled.
Nominated MLAs and MLCs excluded from voting; only elected MLAs form Electoral College.
Independent MLAs barred from showing ballot; party MLAs must display to authorised agent.

Anti-Defection & Cross-Voting

Open ballot aims transparency; cross-vote invalid if party MLA conceals vote marking.
Anti-defection Law not triggered in RS polls because members vote as electors, not legislators.
Cross voting definition: legislator supports rival candidate contrary to party position.

Special Powers

Article 249: RS by 2/3 present and voting can let Parliament legislate on State List in national interest.
Article 312: RS similarly empowers creation of new All-India Services.
Equal power with LS in Constitutional amendment, impeachment, removal of VP.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Max strength	250 (238 elected + 12 nominated)
Current 2025 nominees	H.V. Shringla, U. Nikam, M. Jain, C. Sadanandan Master
Constitutional article (nomination)	Art 80(1)(a) & 80(3)
Member tenure	6 yrs; 1/3 retire every 2 yrs
Election formula	Quota = [Valid votes ÷ (Seats+1)] + 1
Voting system	Single Transferable Vote, preferential, open ballot (RPA 1951 amend. 2003)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements about the composition of the Parliament is not correct?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements about the Parliament of India is correct ?

GS-3Editorial

3.ICAR Role in Food Security (Agricultural Research)

PIBICAR Foundation Day · DARE · Green Revolution

What & Where

ICAR – autonomous apex body coordinating agricultural research & education in India

Mandate spans crops, horticulture, fisheries, livestock, agri-engineering, climate resilience

Registered 1929; HQ New Delhi; network 113 institutes + 74 agri-universities nationwide

Quick Facts for MCQs

Food & Nutritional Security

Multiplication Foodgrain ↑6.21 ×, milk ↑13 ×, eggs ↑70.7 × since 1950-51
Leadership India largest rice & milk producer, second in wheat, horticulture, fish
Biofortification 27 varieties target micronutrient malnutrition

Research & Innovation

Release 45 new agri-machines, 2 950 t breeder seed, 83 horticulture varieties
Genome editing underway in 40 crops under MAHARISHI initiative
National Gene Bank safeguards diverse germplasm for future breeding

Climate & Sustainability

National Soil Spectral Library enables rapid soil health diagnostics
Microbial consortium cuts rice methane emissions 18 %
35 Good Agricultural Practices and 10 organic models promoted nationwide

Capacity Building

Deans Committee 6 reforms curricula; Student READY ensures hands-on agri skills
PM-ONOS gives free e-journals access to agri students & faculty
KVKs, STRY trained rural youth; ASEAN Fellowships boost regional talent exchange

Policy & Schemes

Credit Kisan Credit Card; insurance PMFBY & RWBCIS cover pre- to post-harvest risks
AIF offers loans ≤ ₹2 cr with 3 % subvention for post-harvest infrastructure
10 000 FPO scheme, PKVY organic clusters, PDMC micro-irrigation propel inclusive growth

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Establishment date	16 July 1929
Legal status	Society under Societies Registration Act 1860
Governing ministry	DARE, MoA&FW
Research institutes	113
Agricultural universities	74
2024-25 foodgrain output	353.95 million t
Wheat under ICAR varieties	85 % of 115.3 million t
Field-crop varieties released 2024-25	679 (27 bio-fortified)
Genome-edited rice	World’s first 2 varieties
Farmer trainings conducted	18.57 lakh
Mobile advisories sent	4.19 crore
Stubble-burning reduction	80 % in target areas

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Recently, ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) has developed the world's first genome-edited rice varieties. Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to the developed products?

CDS_GK, GS1 2000PYQ 2

Match the cities labelled as 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 in the given map with the names of the institutes located in these cities and select the correct answer using the codes given below the names of the institutes.

GS-3Economy

4.NLCIL Renewable Investment (Renewable Energy Investments)

NDTVNavratna CPSE · ₹7 · 000 crore

What & Where

Definition: NLC India Ltd — Navratna CPSE in lignite mining, thermal, coal & renewable power

Key process: ₹7,000 cr exemption lets parent fund subsidiary NLC India Renewables Ltd sans usual DPE nods

Geography: HQ Neyveli, Tamil Nadu; mines & power projects spread across India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Approval: Union Cabinet waived Navratna & DPE investment ceilings for single RE infusion
Scope: Exemption extends to NLCIL and NIRL for future renewable expansions
Compliance: Move aligns with national Net-Zero & RE capacity targets

Economic Angle

Capital: Immediate ₹7,000 cr boosts NLCIL renewable portfolio financing flexibility
Structure: Funds can seed JVs, attracting private capital leverage
Scaling: 2 GW assets transfer consolidates earnings under RE-focused arm

Environmental Impact

Decarbonisation: Shift from lignite to green power aids emission intensity reduction
CSR: Continues eco-restoration, afforestation, emission control commitments
Water: Rainwater harvesting projects integrated into mine reclamation plans

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Year founded	1956
Administrative ministry	Coal
Corporate status	Navratna CPSE
Head office	Neyveli, Tamil Nadu
Approved fresh investment	₹7,000 crore
Beneficiary subsidiary	NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL)
Usual DPE cap waived	30 % of net worth
Asset transfer planned	~2 GW existing RE projects
Allowed investment routes	Direct or Joint Venture
Core mission slogan	People, Planet, Profit
Key sustainability acts	Eco-restoration, afforestation, rain-water harvesting

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the first and the oldest Government-owned coal mining company in India?

CDS_GK, GS1 2015PYQ 2

With reference to the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA), which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

5.Kumaraswami Kamaraj Birth Anniversary (Freedom Movement Leader)

Economic TimesKamaraj Plan · Salt Satyagraha · Quit India

What & Where

Freedom fighter–politician from Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu; born 15 July 1903

Active INC leader in Salt Satyagraha 1930 & Quit India 1942

Chief Minister, Madras State 1954-63; Congress President 1963-67

Quick Facts for MCQs

Freedom Struggle

Awakening spurred by Jallianwala Bagh; joined INC at 17
Led Salt Satyagraha in Tamil Nadu; imprisoned multiple times
Quit India arrest lasted over two years

Governance & Policies

Kamaraj Plan promoted sacrifice of office for party revitalisation
Introduced universal primary education, expanded mid-day meals statewide
Emphasised simple lifestyle; enhanced regional language status in governance

Awards & Legacy

Bharat Ratna 1976 recognised nation-building contribution
15 July celebrated as Education Development Day in Tamil Nadu schools
Remembered as “King-maker” in post-Nehru succession politics

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth anniversary	15 July (Education Development Day, TN)
Inspiration event	Jallianwala Bagh massacre, 1919
Movements joined	Salt Satyagraha 1930; Quit India 1942
Constituent Assembly entry	1946 (Madras Presidency seat)
Lok Sabha election	1952, Nagercoil
Kamaraj Plan year	1963; urged ministers to focus on organisation
Flagship schemes	Free education; school mid-day meal
Language distinction	First non-English-speaking CM in India
Bharat Ratna	Posthumous, 1976
Death	2 Oct 1975, age 72

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

6.Hemam Neelmani Singh Tribute (INA Freedom Fighter)

Indian ExpressBattle of Imphal · Moirang Flag · INA

What & Where

Hemam Neelmani Singh — Manipuri freedom fighter, INA cadre, later Deputy Education Minister of Manipur

Core theatre — Battle of Imphal & Moirang, where INA first raised tricolour on Indian soil (14 Apr 1944)

Post-1947 focus — education, Hindi propagation, women empowerment across Northeast, especially Moirang region

Quick Facts for MCQs

Freedom Struggle Role

Joined INA 1944, aligned with Netaji ideals over Gandhian non-violence
Coordinated Battle of Imphal operations; ensured tricolour hoisting at Moirang
Evaded capture till 1945; imprisoned, then freed 1946

Post-Independence Initiatives

Deputy Education Minister modernised syllabi, expanded higher education, championed women enrolment
Donated Moirang residence as INA headquarters museum; nurtured patriotic memory
Propagated Hindi for unity; upheld one-meal austerity until science stream sanctioned

Legacy & Honours

Recalled with Mairembam Koireng Singh as twin pillars of Manipuri freedom movement
Union Home Minister paid 2025 tribute during Bharat Vikas Parishad felicitation
Bharat Vikas Parishad — Vivekananda-inspired voluntary body mobilised during 1962 war, renamed 1963

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth year	1915
Joined INA	1944
Guiding leader	Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
Landmark battle	Imphal, 1944
First INA flag in India	Moirang, 14 Apr 1944
Arrested by British	1945; released 1946
Donated house for	INA HQ, Moirang Konjengbam
Post-independence post	Deputy Education Minister, Manipur
Personal vow	One meal daily till science stream at Moirang College
Promoted language	Hindi for integration
Posthumous honour	Bharat Vikas Parishad, Govt of Manipur (2025)
Bharat Vikas Parishad origin	Citizens Council, 1962 war; renamed 1963

GS-1Editorial

7.India Earthquake Resilience Gaps (Seismic Preparedness)

The HinduBIS Seismic Zones · IS 1893:2016 · Delhi Zone IV

Illustration for India Earthquake Resilience Gaps (Seismic Preparedness)

What & Where

Earthquake resilience: capability of infrastructure, communities, institutions to withstand and swiftly recover from seismic shocks.

Key processes: BIS seismic zoning, ductile design, liquefaction risk management, retrofitting of legacy structures.

Core geography: 59 % India lies in Zones II–V; highest danger in Himalaya, Northeast, Andaman-Nicobar; Delhi in Zone IV.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Quakes

Kangra 1905: M 8.0, ~19,800 deaths.
Bhuj 2001: M 7.9, 12,932 deaths, 890 villages ruined.
Nepal 2015: M 7.8, tremors across Bihar, UP, Delhi.

Urban Vulnerabilities

Liquefaction: East Delhi, Guwahati, Gangtok on soft, water-saturated soils.
Overcrowding: Delhi 33.5 million amplifies casualty risk.
Non-compliance: Weak IS 1893 & IS 4326 enforcement.

Policy & Codes

Disaster Management Act 2005 set up NDMA, NDRF, SDMAs.
Simplified Building Codes 2021 ease technical complexity for small towns.
Earthquake Disaster Risk Index covers 50 cities; 16 more pending.

Tech & Funding

Observatories: network doubled to 168 by 2025.
BhooKamp app delivers real-time public alerts; Himalayan EEW pilot active.
Retrofitting push: shear walls, ductile reinforcements backed by ₹50k-crore annual ask.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Seismic-prone land	59 % of India
Highest danger zone	Zone V
Delhi Peak Ground Accel.	0.24 g
Delhi pre-2000 unsafe stock	>80 % buildings
Delhi high-rises	>5,000
Himalayan plate drift	4–5 cm / year
Seismic stations 2014	80
Seismic stations 2025	168
NDMA creation year	2005
Suggested annual retrofit fund	₹50,000 crore

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2021PYQ 1

Who amongst the following will be at more risk with respect to the earthquake hazard zone specified by the Geological Survey of India?

CDS_GK 2021PYQ 2

The extent of damage caused by earthquake is not influenced by which one of the following?

GS-1Mapping

8.South China Sea Overview (Strategic Waterway)

Times of IndiaLuzon Strait · Strait of Malacca · China Sea Basin

Illustration for South China Sea Overview (Strategic Waterway)

What & Where

Largest marginal sea of western Pacific; links Pacific (Luzon Strait) with Indian Ocean (Strait of Malacca)

Holds key shipping lanes, hydrocarbons, biodiversity; hotspot of US–China maritime rivalry

New move: US Navy building two boat-repair sites in Palawan, Philippines, facing the sea

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

US-backed Palawan repair hubs boost Philippine patrol reach into contested waters
Frequent China–Philippines standoffs near Spratly and Scarborough zones
Region central to freedom-of-navigation patrols by extra-regional navies

Sovereignty Claims

China’s Nine-Dash Line overlaps ASEAN EEZs, provoking diplomatic protests
Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan maintain counter-claims to reefs and shoals
Recurrent vessel face-offs heighten risk of accidental escalation

Physical Geography

China Sea Basin provides deepest bathymetry; vital for submarine movement
Palawan Trough and Sunda Shelf guide sediment flow, influence resource deposits
Sea’s rim: continental shores to north, east, west; island chains to south

Economic Angle

Corridor carries a significant share of global maritime trade tonnage
Probable oil-gas fields drive exploration interest among littoral states
Rich fisheries underpin livelihoods for multiple Southeast Asian nations

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Deepest point	China Sea Basin ≈ 5,000 m
Main straits	Luzon Strait; Strait of Malacca
Dominant claimant	China, ~90 % via Nine-Dash Line
Other claimants	Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan
Flashpoint islands	Spratly; Paracel; Scarborough Shoal
Key undersea features	Palawan Trough; Sunda Shelf
Bordering directions	Philippines E; Vietnam W; Borneo S; China N
Major rivers draining	Mekong; Red; smaller Malaysian, Philippine, Chinese streams

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news?

GS1 2011PYQ 2

Southeast Asia has captivated the attention of global community over space and time as a geostrategically significant region. Which among the following is the most convincing explanation for this global perspective?

GS-3Editorial

9.Decarbonizing Global Shipping Sector (Green Shipping)

The HinduIMO Targets · Green Methanol · 3% GHG Share

Illustration for Decarbonizing Global Shipping Sector (Green Shipping)

What & Where

Definition: Shipping decarbonisation = shift from oil/LNG to zero/near-zero carbon fuels under IMO timelines (2030-2050).

Key fuels/processes: Green methanol, green ammonia, biofuels; produced via green H₂ + captured CO₂ / air-sourced N₂.

Core geography: India’s solar belt, Tuticorin & Kandla earmarked as green-fuel bunkering hubs for global routes.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

MBM framework: India-backed ‘bridging mechanism’ rewards zero/near-zero fuels, penalises high emitters.
Harit Sagar Guidelines & Green Tug Transition drive port-side decarbonisation mandates.
Maritime India Vision 2030 aligns domestic sector with IMO paths.

Tech & Schemes

Electrolyser PLI plus sovereign guarantees envisaged to cut green-fuel CapEx.
Carbon-capture scale-up essential for industrial CO₂-to-methanol pathway.
Ammonia engines still experimental; methanol preferred for near-term retrofits.

Economic Angle

₹10 bn pledged for 110 new ships; 10-20 % green-fuel ready to create scale economics.
National Hydrogen Mission stipulates ≤2 kg CO₂e /kg H₂, within IMO reward band.
Export window: Indian green fuels qualify for upcoming global carbon levy rebates.

Infrastructure & Safety Challenges

Bunkering: Specialized tanks, port revamps, global safety codes yet evolving.
Price gap: x3 cost premium over VLSFO slows fleet conversion.
Conservative maritime culture delays uptake of untested propulsion tech.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Shipping share of global GHG	≈ 3 %
Hypothetical rank as emitter	6th largest
IMO carbon-intensity cut targets	40 % by 2030; 70 % by 2040 (2008 base)
IMO absolute goal	Net-zero by 2050
Power needed per tonne green methanol	10–11 MWh renewable electricity
Cost per tonne	USD 1,950 (green MeOH) vs USD 560 (VLSFO)
Expected demand 2028	14 million t green methanol
Expected supply 2028	11 million t
India solar goal 2030	280 GW (within 500 GW RE)
Maritime Development Fund FY26	₹25,000 crore

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2024PYQ 1

Which of the following statements is not correct?

GS-3EnvironmentQuick Bite

10.Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Profile (Tiger Reserve)

Indian ExpressAravali-Vindhya · Sawai Mansingh · Keladevi

What & Where

Tiger reserve in eastern Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur & Karauli districts, nestled at Aravali–Vindhya junction

Comprises Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Mansingh & Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuaries

Marks north-western edge of Bengal tiger range under Project Tiger

Quick Facts for MCQs

Physical Geography

Grasslands dominate plateaus, seasonal streams carry dense woodland
Tropical dry deciduous ecology faces prolonged drought conditions
Location aids connectivity between Aravali–Vindhyan landscapes

Flora

Dhak tree highly drought tolerant, paints summer landscape orange red
Multiple flowering species boost dry season forage
Vegetation mix creates diverse niches for birds and ungulates

Fauna

Apex predator tiger coexists with leopard, caracal, jungle cat moderating prey dynamics
Ungulate guild includes chinkara, blackbuck supporting predator density
Striped hyena, jackal, langur provide scavenging and seed dispersal services

Cultural Heritage

Ranthambore fort 1000 yr old Chauhan hill fort crowns reserve skyline
Fort driven identity supports heritage based eco tourism economies
Conservation planning integrates monument integrity with wildlife protection mandates

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
State	Rajasthan
Districts	Sawai Madhopur, Karauli
Hill ranges	Aravali, Vindhya
Constituent areas	Ranthambore NP, Sawai Mansingh & Keladevi WLS
Fort build year	944 AD (Chauhan)
Fort height	~700 ft above forest
Forest type	Tropical dry deciduous
Dominant tree	Dhak (Butea monosperma)
Bird diversity	≈272 species
Tiger status	NW limit of Bengal tiger
Scheme tag	Project Tiger site

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2020PYQ 1

Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

GEO_GS, GS1 2024PYQ 2

Which of the following tiger reserves is/are not situated in the state of Rajasthan?

GS-3Editorial

11.Generative AI Copyright Challenges (IPR in AI)

Indian ExpressChatGPT · Gemini · Deepfakes

What & Where

Artificial Intelligence: 1956 term; machines mimic human cognition for learning, reasoning, problem-solving.

Generative AI: models create novel text, images, code after training on vast copyrighted datasets (ChatGPT, Gemini, DALL·E).

India: Copyright Act 1957 lacks non-human authorship; AI-training “fair use” remains judicially untested.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Gap: AI-assisted works protected; purely AI-generated outputs lack statutory ownership in India.
Reform: Insert AI-specific clauses, codify 4-factor fair-use test for training datasets.
Governance: Require data-usage audits and designated compliance officers in AI firms.

Judicial Precedents

Fair use widened to films/music: India TV v. Yashraj, 2012 (Delhi HC).
Educational photocopying upheld: DU Photocopy case, 2016 (Delhi HC).
US cases (Bartz v. Anthropic; Silverman v. Meta) deem training transformative yet flag storage, compensation.

International Examples

EU: Transparency of training data; sui generis right under discussion.
China: Beijing Internet Court granted copyright to Stable Diffusion image citing human originality.
UK: Computer-generated works get copyright but no moral rights; rarely invoked.

Way Forward

Harmonise: India to steer WIPO talks on AI copyright norms.
Balance: Enable collective licensing models ensuring fair creator remuneration while supporting innovation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
AI term coined	1956, John McCarthy
Indian copyright statute	Copyright Act, 1957
Fair-dealing clause	Section 52, Copyright Act
Parody test case	Civic Chandran v. Ammini Amma, 1996 (Kerala HC)
Originality benchmark	Eastern Book Co. v. D.B. Modak, 2008 (SC)
EU AI Act	Adopted 2024
UK CGW rule	Section 9(3), CDPA 1988
First AI-inventor patent	South Africa, 2021 (DABUS)
US stance on AI output	Thaler v. Perlmutter, 2023—no copyright without human input
India review panel	Commerce Ministry, 2025

GS-3S&T

12.AI Appreciation Day India (Artificial Intelligence)

Times of IndiaJuly 16 · Digital India · NITI Aayog

Illustration for AI Appreciation Day India (Artificial Intelligence)

What & Where

Annual global AI Appreciation Day honours AI’s societal impact and its contributors

Observed 16 July; 2024 focus on India across governance, health, agri, education

Geography pivot India aiming AI for All in public service delivery

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Digital India 2015 mainstreamed AI in connectivity and citizen services
NITI Aayog 2018 strategy coined AI for All with five priority sectors
Observance stresses responsible AI covering bias, transparency, cybersecurity

Sectoral Applications

Healthcare adopts early diagnostics, telemedicine powered by AI models
Agriculture embraces precision farming, pest prediction, advisory alerts
Governance uses chatbots, e-courts, real-time grievance dashboards

Economic Angle

AI expected to boost innovation, productivity, startup ecosystem growth
Event positions India as emerging global AI hub for investment inflow
Inclusion agenda targets underserved communities via smart digital tools

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Celebration date	16 July every year
Indian AI origin marker	1986 Knowledge-Based Computer Systems project
Key policy roadmap	NITI Aayog National Strategy for AI 2018
Digital enablement push	Digital India programme 2015
Core objectives	Innovation showcase, ethical use, inclusive growth, youth skilling

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2025PYQ 1

ग्रैण्ड पैलै (Grand Palais) पेरिस में नवम्बर 2025 में आयोजित होने वाले AI शिखर सम्मेलन के सन्दर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

ESE_GS, GS1 2026PYQ 2

Which Ministry released the India AI Governance Guidelines in 2025?

GS-3S&T

13.Gujarat Tribal Genome Project (Genomics Research)

HETGBRC · Precision Medicine · Sickle Cell

Illustration for Gujarat Tribal Genome Project (Genomics Research)

What & Where

Initiative: Tribal Genome Sequencing Project to build reference database for precision medicine.

Geography: Gujarat, first Indian state; covers 17 tribal-dominated districts.

Process: Sample collection → genome sequencing → bioinformatic analysis at Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Sequencing: High-throughput machines generate comprehensive variant data.
Analysis: Bioinformatics pipelines search natural immunity and disease-risk markers.
Integration: Findings may feed future precision-medicine schemes and Ayushman updates.

Health Equity

Screening: Early detection can cut sickle-cell morbidity in tribal belts.
Treatment: Genetic profiles enable tailored drug dosage, counselling protocols.
Empowerment: Project aligns with National Tribal Health goals for inclusivity.

Community Engagement

Consent: Field teams conduct culturally sensitive informed-consent sessions.
Outreach: Awareness drives explain hereditary disorders and preventive care.
Representation: Sampling spans multiple clans to minimise bias and improve validity.

Policy & Replicability

Pioneer: First state-level tribal genome database in India.
Blueprint: Data governance could guide ICMR and MoHFW genomic standards.
Scalability: Success expected to trigger similar projects in other regions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Implementing body	Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre
Sample size	2,000 tribal individuals
Districts covered	17
Key disorders	Sickle cell anaemia; Thalassemia; Hereditary cancers
Core objective	Identify genetic risk markers for personalised healthcare
Infrastructure	Advanced sequencing and data-analysis platforms
Health equity aim	Science-led empowerment of underserved tribal groups
Replicability	Model for other Indian states’ genomic policies

GS-3S&T

14.Splashdown Landing Technique (Space Re-entry)

Indian ExpressCrew Dragon · Parachute Deployment · Gaganyaan

Illustration for Splashdown Landing Technique (Space Re-entry)

What & Where

Splashdown = water-surface landing method for crew capsules using parachutes + buoyancy.

Used by SpaceX Crew Dragon, NASA Orion, upcoming ISRO Gaganyaan modules.

Typical zones: open Pacific/Atlantic oceans enabling wide recovery margins.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology & Mechanics

Sequence: two drogue chutes stabilize, four main chutes slow, conical hull ensures floatation.
Descent-angle glide avoids vertical drop, dissipates kinetic energy across thousands of kilometres.
Floatation: rounded bottom mimics ship hull; post-landing buoyancy keeps capsule upright for recovery.

Advantages & Safety

Cushioning: ocean density + viscosity absorb shock, obviating heavy landing legs or retro-rockets.
Navigation: vast sea surface lowers precision landing requirement, reducing mission-risk margins.
Economy: no runways/airbags; simpler capsule structure trims development and operation costs.

Indian Angle

Gaganyaan return module engineered for splashdown with similar chute-based architecture.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla experienced Crew Dragon splashdown during Axiom-4 mission.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Re-entry speed	≈ 27,000 km h⁻¹
Drogue parachute deploy altitude	~18,000 ft
Main parachute deploy altitude	~6,500 ft
Glide range before splash	5,000–7,000 km
Final water-touch speed	25–30 km h⁻¹

GS-2Editorial

15.UN SDG Report 2025 Findings (SDG Progress)

Down to EarthZero Hunger · Quality Education · Clean Water

Illustration for UN SDG Report 2025 Findings (SDG Progress)

What & Where

UN SDG Report 2025: UNDESA annual stock-take released at HLPF New York

Tracks progress on 17 Goals, 169 targets of Agenda 2030

Finds 35 % measurable targets stagnating or reversing globally

Quick Facts for MCQs

Stagnating SDGs

Worst-hit goals: 2,4,6,8,10; SDG14 has 40 % targets regressing
Maternal mortality, UHC, forests, governance also stall under SDG3,12,15,16

Negative Trends

Climate crisis: 2024 hottest; WMO gives 80 % odds of even hotter years ahead
Extreme poverty >800 mn; official aid decreased 7.1 % in 2024

Positive Gains

HIV infections down 40 %; malaria actions saved 12.7 mn lives since 2000
Social protection now covers over 50 % of global population

Finance & Roadmap

Sevilla Commitment seeks bigger multilateral lending, debt relief, closing US$4 tn gap
Six accelerators flagged: food, energy, digital, education, jobs, climate-biodiversity protection

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Measurable targets off-track	35%
Global hunger 2023	9.1% ≈ 713–757 mn
Food insecurity	2.33 bn people
Sub-Saharan hunger	23.2% prevalence
SDG-4 stagnating	57% targets
No safe drinking water	2.2 bn people
Informal employment share	57.8% workers
Youth unemployment 2024	12.9% (adult 3.7%)
Annual SDG financing gap	US$4 tn
HIV infections change	−40% since 2010

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

SDG India Index, developed by NITI Aayog, includes 17 SDGs for each State. Which one of the following is not included in that index?

GS-2Security

16.Israel Airstrikes in Syria (Middle East Conflict)

NDTVGolan Heights · Druze Minority · Damascus

Illustration for Israel Airstrikes in Syria (Middle East Conflict)

What & Where

Israeli airstrikes hit Damascus & Druze-majority Suwayda in southern Syria amid sectarian violence

Israel cites protection of Druze minority and blocking hostile forces near occupied Golan Heights

Suwayda sits at Syria-Jordan-Israel tri-border crossroads, critical for border security

Quick Facts for MCQs

Ethno-Religious Profile

Origin Shia-linked faith; theology secretive, non-proselytising
Israeli Druze conscripted, viewed as loyal citizens; Syrian Druze rely on local militias
Major clusters: Syria, Lebanon, Israel, occupied Golan Heights

Security Dimension

Israel deters Hezbollah-aligned and Islamist forces from southern Syria corridor
Seeks influence among Syrian minorities for post-Assad leverage
Ceasefire in Druze-Bedouin clashes collapsed, providing continued pretext for strikes

Geostrategic Location

Suwayda overlooks approaches to Golan Heights and Jordanian border
Unrest threatens wider regional stability and border security for Israel
Vacuum invites competing external interventions, heightening conflict complexity

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Struck locations	Damascus (central), Suwayda Province (south)
Minority involved	Druze, Arabic-speaking ethno-religious group
Global Druze population	≈ 1 million
Druze share in Syria	~50 % of worldwide community
Israeli strategic aim	Buffer near Golan Heights; curb pro-Iran/Islamist presence
Suwayda position	Crossroads of Syria-Jordan-Israel

GS-2Scheme

17.PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (Agriculture Scheme)

PIB₹24 · 000 crore · 100 Districts

What & Where

Targeted agricultural transformation scheme for low-productivity areas, titled Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY)

Nationwide coverage; 100 lowest-performing districts, minimum one district from every State/UT

Runs 2025-26 to 2030-31; convergence model integrating multiple central agri programmes

Quick Facts for MCQs

Objectives & Targets

Productivity: close yield gaps via scientific agronomy, tech infusion
Diversification: shift toward climate-resilient, high-value crops
Infra: village-level cold storages, improved logistics and irrigation efficiency

Implementation Structure

Convergence: aligns PMKSY, PMFBY, RKVY and 33 other schemes
Planning: bottom-up District Agriculture & Allied Plan finalised by Samiti with farmers
Monitoring: real-time dashboard, CNO field visits, institute tie-ups for knowledge

Selection Criteria

Indicators: low yield, moderate cropping intensity, low institutional credit flow
Allocation: proportional to net cropped area and operational holdings
Inclusivity: every State/UT assured at least one beneficiary district

Economic Angle

Finance: ₹1.44 lakh crore total investment expected over six years
Credit: facilitates timely short- and long-term loans through banks and PACS
Multiplier: aims to raise farm incomes and spur rural agri-value chains

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Annual outlay	₹24,000 crore
Total scheme period	6 years (FY 2025-31)
Beneficiary districts	100
Lead ministry	Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Strategic oversight	NITI Aayog
Converged schemes	36
Involved ministries	11
Monitoring metrics	117 KPIs, monthly dashboard
District plan body	District Dhan Dhaanya Samiti, headed by Collector
Central field oversight	Central Nodal Officers
Key pillars	Productivity, diversification, irrigation, credit, post-harvest infra
Cabinet status	Approved before Union Budget 2025-26

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2025PYQ 1

Which one among the following schemes focuses on developing modern infrastructure and optimizing supply chain from farm to retail in Indian agriculture sector?

CAPF_GAI, GEO_GS 2024PYQ 2

Which one among the following statements about PDMC scheme (Per Drop More Crop) is not correct?

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

18.Sanchar Mitra Scheme Launch (Digital Literacy)

PIBDepartment of Telecom · University Volunteers · Cyber Hygiene

What & Where

Nationwide volunteer‐driven Sanchar Mitra Scheme of DoT to spread telecom safety, cyber-hygiene, digital literacy

University students, titled Sanchar Mitras, act as peer educators after structured training by NCA-T & DoT Media Wing

Coverage spans emerging telecom tech, EMF safety, fraud prevention across all states/UTs

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Curriculum covers next-gen networks 5G–6G, artificial intelligence applications, EMF compliance norms
Scheme complements BharatNet, Digital Literacy Mission by focusing on end-user awareness

Security Dimension

Volunteers educate on SIM swap, UPI spoofing, phishing to curb telecom-enabled frauds
Cyber-hygiene messaging aligned with CERT-In advisories and National Cyber Security Policy 2013

Capacity Building

Local DoT units nominate students, ensuring regional language outreach and tier-2/3 city penetration
Exceptional Mitras gain experiential learning via live national telecom deployments

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Nodal ministry	Department of Telecommunications
Implementing model	Volunteer-based digital outreach
Primary volunteers	University students in telecom-related disciplines
Core training body	National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T)
Key curriculum	5G, 6G, AI, EMF radiation, cybersecurity
Incentives	Internships, national telecom projects, India Mobile Congress, ITU forums

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

Which one of the following is an ‘end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem’ developed recently by the Indian Army?

CDS_GK, ESE_GS 2026PYQ 2

The Samriddh Gram Phygital Services Pilot Project was recently launched by which organization?