Monday, 21 July 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (a) 1 only. This question appeared in GS1 2007.

Q: What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?

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

Q: Which one of the following statements is correct?

The correct answer is (a) Alliance Air is a wholly owned subsidiary of Indian Airlines. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2003.

Q: उड़े देश का आम नागरिक (उड़ान) योजना के बारे में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

The correct answer is (b) केवल 2. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2022.

Q: Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the ‘Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’?

The correct answer is (a) Mobile wallets will not be necessary for online payments.. This question appeared in GS1 2017.

Q: Consider the following countries :

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

Q: With reference to India, consider the following statements :

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2 and 3 only. This question appeared in GS1 2022.

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (b) 2 and 3 only. This question appeared in GS1 2021.

Q: What is the conclusion of the author in the passage about the prospects of agriculture in the world?

The correct answer is (a) The author is both hopeful and sceptical of the prospects of agriculture. This question appeared in NDA_GAT 2025.

Q: Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine ?

The correct answer is (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium. This question appeared in GS1 2010.

18 topicsGS-1: 4GS-2: 5GS-3: 9

0/18 done

GS-2Polity

1.UPSC Pratibha Setu Recruitment Linkage Platform (UPSC Recruitment Platform)

Indian ExpressPratibha Setu · Public Disclosure Scheme · non-recommended candidates

What & Where

Platform: UPSC Pratibha Setu links employers with candidates who cleared UPSC written exams but missed final recommendation

Hosting: Union Public Service Commission portal, New Delhi; open to government, PSU and now private recruiters

Coverage: CSE, IFoS, ESE, IES/ISS, CMS, CDS, CAPF (AC), Combined Geo-Scientist examinations

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Digitalisation: Secure UPSC portal enables real-time candidate filtering and download
Inclusion: Private sector access added in 2024, widening hiring ecosystem
Security: Candidate data visible only after employer authentication and candidate consent

Economic Angle

Talent-pool: Utilises already-tested merit, reducing search and assessment costs for recruiters
Efficiency: Bridges labour-market gaps, especially for specialists in engineering, medicine, economics
PSU synergy: Facilitates faster filling of technical and managerial vacancies in public enterprises

Social Concerns

Merit utilisation: Prevents wastage of high-performing aspirants barred by limited UPSC vacancies
Equity: Expands career options irrespective of socio-economic background of candidates
Motivation: Provides fallback opportunity, sustaining aspirant morale and exam competitiveness

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch year (as PDS)	2018
Renamed year	2024
PRATIBHA expansion	Professional Resource And Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants
Eligible candidates	Cleared written stage; not recommended in interview; given consent
Recruiter access	Government, PSUs, Autonomous bodies, Private employers
Core function	View, filter, recruit via subject/discipline search tools
Data release basis	Voluntary candidate opt-in
Portal credentials	UPSC issues secure login to registered organisations

GS-2Polity

2.Impeachment Procedure for Indian Judges (Judiciary Removal)

The HinduArticle 124(4) · Judges Inquiry Act 1968 · proved misbehaviour

Illustration for Impeachment Procedure for Indian Judges (Judiciary Removal)

What & Where

Judicial removal: constitutional mechanism to oust SC/HC judge for “proved misbehaviour or incapacity” under Arts 124(4), 217, 218.

Core steps: Notice by ≥100 LS or 50 RS MPs → 3-member Inquiry Committee → special majority in both Houses, same session → Presidential order.

Geography: Jurisdiction pan-India; proceedings in Parliament, New Delhi; committee draws from Supreme Court & High Courts.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Safeguard: Stringent dual-majority designed to shield judiciary from partisan pressure.
Committee: Quasi-judicial body collects evidence, submits report to initiating House.
Resignation clause: Process lapses if judge quits before motion passed.

Historical Cases

V. Ramaswami 1993: Found guilty of fund misuse; Lok Sabha motion failed due to abstentions.
Soumitra Sen 2011: Rajya Sabha approved removal; resignation pre-Lok Sabha debate halted process.
Post-1950 record: No judge actually removed despite multiple attempts.

Process Drawbacks

Political arithmetic: Party alliances & abstentions can derail motion despite evidence.
Time lag: Multi-stage procedure prolongs uncertainty, harms public confidence.
Accountability gap: Resignation or vote failure leaves misconduct unpunished.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Governing statute	Judges (Inquiry) Act 1968
Key constitutional article (SC)	Art 124(4)
Extension to HCs	Art 218
Motion signatories	100 MPs (LS) / 50 MPs (RS)
Screening authority	Speaker (LS) / Chairman (RS)
Inquiry Committee	SC Judge/CJI + HC Chief Justice + eminent jurist
Voting requirement	Absolute majority + ⅔ present & voting, both Houses
Session condition	Same parliamentary session
Final removal order	President of India
Successful impeachments so far	0

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2007PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

GS1 2012PYQ 2

What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?

GS-3Editorial

3.Improving Regulatory Oversight in Indian Aviation (Aviation Safety)

The HinduDGCA · AAIB crash report · Air India Ahmedabad 2025

Illustration for Improving Regulatory Oversight in Indian Aviation (Aviation Safety)

What & Where

Aviation sector = airlines, airports, ATC, regulators (DGCA + MoCA); ensures domestic & international air connectivity.

Key processes: safety regulation, air-traffic management, crash investigation (AAIB).

Hot-spot geographies: Mumbai, Kozhikode, Ahmedabad airports where recent crashes/obstacle breaches surfaced.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Regulatory Weakness

DGCA limited in-house expertise; leans on FAA/EASA for safety directives.
Multiple AAIB crash reports flag unresolved systemic lapses.
Proposal: autonomous safety regulator outside MoCA chain-of-command.

Human Fatigue

Airlines exploit DGCA exemptions to exceed Flight Duty Time Limits.
AMEs & ATCOs face unregulated hours; 2010 Mangalore-triggered reforms still idle.
Fatigue increases risk of maintenance misses and operational errors.

Infrastructure Encroachment

High-rises around airports violate Aircraft Act & S.O. 988 buffer norms.
> 1,000 vertical obstacles near Mumbai alone breach Instrument-Flight-Procedure limits.
Green-energy coverage limited to ~80 airports amid rapid capacity addition.

Reform Agenda

Reinstate statutory obstacle controls with strict enforcement.
Institute whistle-blower protection for pilots, engineers, ATCOs.
Harmonise fatigue limits, licensing, audits with ICAO standards while ensuring Indian contextualisation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Global domestic rank	3rd largest
Annual passengers (2024)	350 + million
Daily passengers (2024)	> 5 lakh
Traffic growth 2024	Domestic 5.9 %; International 11.4 %
Women pilot share	13 – 18 %
Airports on green energy	~80
Pilot demand by 2040	34,000 +
Obstacle breaches near Mumbai	> 1,000 structures

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2003PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is correct?

GS1, NDA_GAT 2022PYQ 2

उड़े देश का आम नागरिक (उड़ान) योजना के बारे में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार कीजिए :

GS-3Economy

4.Regulation of Agricultural Biostimulants in India (Biostimulant Regulation)

Indian Expressbiostimulants · Fertiliser Control Order 1985 · Union Agriculture Ministry

Illustration for Regulation of Agricultural Biostimulants in India (Biostimulant Regulation)

What & Where

Definition: Biostimulants = natural substances/microbes enhancing nutrient uptake, growth, yield, stress-tolerance; neither fertiliser nor pesticide

Process: Applied as foliar/soil input; trigger plant physiological pathways without adding primary nutrients

Geography: Regulated across India under Fertiliser Control Order (FCO) 1985 (amended Feb 2021)

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Inclusion: Biostimulants formally notified under Schedule VI of FCO for first time in India
Directive: Union Agriculture Minister asked states to stop forced sales bundled with subsidised fertilisers
Crop-wise specifications: Separate norms notified May 2025 for paddy, tomato, chilli, cotton, soybean, others

Compliance Crackdown

Action: Unsold stocks without final approval now illegal post-March 2024 deadline
Reduction: From 30k unregistered labels to 650 authorised products after verification
Penalty: Non-compliant firms face cancellation and seizure under Essential Commodities Act provisions

Testing Protocols

Requirement: Acute, eco and bio-efficacy studies must be NABL or GLP certified
Safety: No mutagenicity, carcinogenicity or teratogenicity allowed above OECD limits
Lab standards: Central committee prescribes methods, frequencies, reference materials

Economic Angle

Driver: Rising demand for low-input, climate-resilient farming systems
Segment: Seaweed, humic substances, protein hydrolysates dominate Indian biostimulant sales
Forecast: CAGR around 15 % expected 2025-32 due to horticulture and export crops

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Legal cover	FCO 1985, Amendment Feb 2021
Central Biostimulant Committee	Constituted 2021; 5-year tenure
Mandatory acute toxicity tests	Oral, dermal, inhalation, eye, skin (5)
Eco-toxicity tests	Fish, birds, honeybees, earthworms (4)
Field trials	3 agro-ecological zones, 3 doses, 1 season
Unregulated products earlier	>30,000
Permitted products now	~650
Provisional licence expiry	March 2024
Market size (India)	USD 410 mn (2025 est.)
Projected size	USD 1.13 bn by 2032

GS-3Economy

5.India Leads Global Real-Time Payments via UPI (UPI Fast Payments)

DD NewsUPI · IMF-FIS Fast Payments Report · FPAS score

Illustration for India Leads Global Real-Time Payments via UPI (UPI Fast Payments)

What & Where

Fast Payments Report 2025: IMF–FIS Global study benchmarking digital payment adoption via Faster Payment Adoption Score (FPAS).

Unified Payments Interface (UPI): India’s interoperable, real-time retail payment rail enabling P2P and merchant transfers.

Geography: India tops list of 30 assessed countries; UPI also live in France, UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Oman.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

Leadership: India surpasses Brazil, Singapore, UK, USA in real-time payments adoption and usage.
Scale: UPI drives cost-effective micro-payments, boosting digital commerce and financial inclusion.
BRICS push: India pitching UPI as common cross-border standard for BRICS+ settlement.

Tech & Schemes

Interoperability: Single QR and virtual IDs across PhonePe, GPay, Paytm, banking apps.
Innovation stack: Aadhaar eKYC, DigiLocker, Account Aggregator layered for frictionless onboarding.
Security: Real-time fraud analytics, tokenisation, RBI-mandated compliance norms.

Limitations & Fixes

Connectivity gap: Most UPI modes need internet; expansion of USSD, NFC-based Lite+ proposed.
Data privacy: Need dedicated Digital Payments Consumer Protection Act for collection and misuse safeguards.
Grievance redressal: Plan for unified AI-aided portal integrating NPCI and RBI for faster dispute closure.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
FPAS rank of India	1st among 30 countries
FPAS percentage	87.5 %
June 2025 UPI volume	18.39 billion transactions
Average daily UPI volume	640 million
Individuals on UPI	491 million
Merchant touchpoints	65 million
Participating banks	675
Processing time	≤5 seconds
Per-transaction cost	Near zero
Overseas markets	7 countries

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2017PYQ 1

Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the ‘Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’?

GS1 2025PYQ 2

Consider the following countries :

GS-3Economy

6.Offshore Atomic Mineral Rules 2025 (Offshore Atomic Mining Rules)

Business StandardOffshore Areas Mineral Act 2002 · uranium & thorium · EEZ licensing

Illustration for Offshore Atomic Mineral Rules 2025 (Offshore Atomic Mining Rules)

What & Where

Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Right Rules 2025: governs uranium & thorium exploration/mining in India’s offshore Exclusive Economic Zone.

Applies only when atomic-mineral grade ≥ government-notified threshold; otherwise 2024 Offshore Areas Operating Right Rules prevail.

Eligible operators: CPSEs or Centre-nominated Indian firms; foreign participation needs prior Union approval.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Monopoly; private access only via explicit Central nomination under 2025 rules.
Dual-rule framework; 2024 rules govern non-atomic or low-grade deposits.
Prior approval mandate curbs unregulated foreign tech or equity entry.

Environmental Impact

Mandatory seabed rehabilitation; operator must restore marine ecology within six months post-operations.
Restoration clause aims to minimise biodiversity loss from dredging and tailings.

Mineral Geography

Thorium abundance; monazite sands along Kerala–Odisha contain roughly 8–10 % ThO₂.
Uranium scarcity; limited inland lodes, major offshore hunt targets high-grade nodules.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent Act	Offshore Areas Mineral (Development & Regulation) Act 2002
Notification Year	2025
Minerals Covered	Uranium, Thorium (atomic minerals)
Jurisdiction	Offshore areas within India’s EEZ
Licence Eligibility	CPSEs / Centre-nominated Indian entities
Foreign Entry	Only with prior GoI approval
Threshold Clause	Rules trigger when U/Th above minimum grade
Post-exploration Rehab	Seabed restoration within 6 months
Alternative Rule-set	Offshore Areas Operating Right Rules 2024 (for sub-threshold grades)
Thorium-rich Sands	Monazite deposits – Kerala & Odisha coasts
First Uranium Mine	Jaduguda, Jharkhand

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2022PYQ 1

With reference to India, consider the following statements :

GS1 2021PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

GS-3Economy

7.Stablecoins Asset-Backed Cryptocurrencies Overview (Cryptocurrency Stablecoins)

Indian Expressstablecoin · Tether · asset reserve

What & Where

Stablecoin = cryptocurrency pegged to external asset (fiat, commodity, crypto, or none) aiming for low volatility

First issued 2014; flagship example Tether (USDT); now under formal US financial-stability review

Reserve assets commonly cash, govt debt, commercial paper; act bridge between traditional money & investment cryptos like Bitcoin

Quick Facts for MCQs

Classification

Fiat-collateralised; Multi-asset collateralised; Crypto-collateralised; Non-collateral/algorithmic categories
Over-collateralisation used to offset crypto price swings in crypto-backed models
Multi-asset coins may fluctuate with commodity or bond markets

Risk Factors

Liquidity-risk : short-term debt reserves can freeze under stress
Contagion-risk : rapid reserve liquidation could spill into broader financial markets
Stability-myth : price depends on quality, transparency of backing assets

Regulatory Angle

US President’s Working Group mulling formal oversight; no global uniform framework yet
Accountability-gap : operates like shadow banks, outside traditional banking audits
Cross-border coordination complicated by divergent laws, development levels

Utility

Settlement-speed : enables near-instant crypto trades without banking delays
Bridge-function : links legacy fiat systems to decentralised finance platforms
Perceived-safety : marketed as cash-equivalent despite underlying reserve risks

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First stablecoin	Tether, 2014
Basic peg ratio	1:1 against underlying fiat for fiat-collateralised coins
Asset-backed examples	Tether, Gemini Dollar, TrueUSD
Crypto-collateral example	Dai (over-collateralised)
Commodity-backed example	Digix Gold (physical gold)
Non-collateral/algorithmic	Basis
Key US concern 2021	Potential threat to financial stability, liquidity risk in reserves

GS-3Economy

8.OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook 2025-34 Highlights (OECD-FAO Outlook)

Down to Earthcereal production · biofuel demand · yield growth

What & Where

Outlook: OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook 2025-34, 10-year projections for global agriculture, fisheries, biofuels.

Producers: Joint report of OECD (Paris) & FAO (Rome); covers 40 + commodities across 65 regions.

Scope: Baseline assumes current policies; base period 2022-24, forecast window 2025-34.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Market Trends

Cereal-demand shift: India, Southeast Asia surge; China slows as diet diversifies.
Animal-calories: Global +6 %; lower-middle nations jump 24 %, low-income lag at 143 kcal.
Biofuel pull: Brazil, India, Indonesia supply most incremental ethanol demand.

Biofuel–Food Security

Land-use stress: Biofuel crops risk diverting fertile farmland, inflating staple prices.
Resource strain: Ethanol production water-intensive; fertiliser demand escalates.
Environmental cost: Possible deforestation & biodiversity loss threaten food-system resilience.

Policy & Tech Options

Feedstock shift: 3G algae ethanol, GM bioenergy crops reduce food-crop diversion.
Zoning approach: Restrict biofuel cultivation to marginal/wasteland under ecological safeguards.
Productivity push: Precision farming, crop rotations, improved livestock feed boost yields and cut emissions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Cereal production CAGR	1.1 % (2025-34)
Yield contribution	0.9 %/yr
Harvested-area growth	0.14 %/yr
Cereal use 2034	Food 40 % ; Feed 33 % ; Biofuel 27 %
Biofuel demand CAGR	0.9 %
Agri + fish output rise	14 % by 2034
Agri GHG emission change	+6 %
India + SE Asia share of new cereal demand	39 %
China share (was 32 %)	13 %
Land for India E20 goal	7.1 mn ha (~3 % cropped)
Water need per litre ethanol	8–12 L
India rice price rise 2023	14.5 %
Animal-calorie gain lower-middle income	+24 % to 364 kcal/day
Productivity hike to end hunger	15 % → 7 % emission cut

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

What is the conclusion of the author in the passage about the prospects of agriculture in the world?

GS-1History

9.Marungur Iron Age Habitation-Burial Site (Iron Age Site)

The HinduMarungur excavation · Tamil-Brahmi potsherds · megalithic urn burials

Illustration for Marungur Iron Age Habitation-Burial Site (Iron Age Site)

What & Where

Excavation Marungur: habitation-cum-burial site spanning Iron Age–Early Historic, multidisciplinary by Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology

Geography Panruti taluk, Cuddalore district, between Thenpennai & Vada Vellar rivers, ancient Naduvil Mandalam zone

Context Rare coexistence mound + urn cemetery; advanced UAV, LiDAR, AMS carbon dating deployed

Quick Facts for MCQs

Archaeological Significance

Rarity habitation plus cemetery offers holistic lifestyle snapshot for Naduvil Nadu
Continuous occupation profile clarifies regional shift toward early urban centres
Trade linkage evidence aligns with coastal hubs Arikamedu and Poompuhar

Epigraphy & Scripts

Tamil-Brahmi sherds extend corpus of earliest south Indian writing
Inscribed grave goods refine palaeographic dating of megalithic phase
Literacy indicators suggest socio-political complexity pre Sangam age

Technology & Methods

UAV photogrammetry LiDAR furnish centimetre-level terrain and mound models
AMS dating coupled phytoliths builds secure multi-century chronology
GIS trench logs enable 3D visualisation of burial architecture and stratigraphy

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Executing agency	Tamil Nadu State Dept. of Archaeology
Site components	Habitation mound and megalithic urn burials
District & State	Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu
Stratified depth	Anthropogenic deposits to 6 m
Artifact tally	95 catalogued items
Script found	Tamil-Brahmi on grave pots
Burial pattern	Concentric laterite stone circles with urns
Key artifacts	Iron swords, jasper beads, antimony rods, Chola coins
Dating tools	AMS carbon dating, phytolith, UAV LiDAR mapping
Cultural phase	Transition Iron Age → Early Historic

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

10.Shaheed Mangal Pandey Birth Anniversary (1857 Revolt)

PIBMangal Pandey · Sepoy Mutiny 1857 · Enfield cartridge

What & Where

Personality; Mangal Pandey, sepoy of 34th Bengal Native Infantry, East India Company

Geography; born Ballia (Uttar Pradesh), mutinied Barrackpore (Bengal), revolt spread Ambala-Lucknow-Meerut-Delhi

Process; refusal of greased Enfield cartridges catalysed 1857 Sepoy Mutiny / First War of Independence

Quick Facts for MCQs

Early Life

Birthplace Ballia; rustic peasant-sepoy background common among Bengal Army recruits
Recruitment age 22; posted to Barrackpore cantonment

Mutiny Trigger

Cartridge greased with beef-pork fat offended Hindu-Muslim faiths
Refusal escalated; solitary firing act ignited open rebellion in regiment

Spread & Leadership

Discontent diffused to Ambala, Lucknow, Meerut; mass uprising 10 May 1857
Delhi capture; Bahadur Shah Zafar declared symbolic emperor, providing pan-Indian legitimacy

Execution & Legacy

Court-martial hanging 8 Apr 1857; regiment dissolved
Remembered as precursor hero; embodies sepoy-peasant grievances against colonial rule

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Birth date	19 Jul 1827
Birth place	Nagwa village, Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh
Regiment	34th Bengal Native Infantry
Age joined army	22 years
Objectionable weapon	Enfield Pattern 1853 rifle-musket
Key mutiny act	Fired on Senior Sergeant Major, 29 Mar 1857
Execution	8 Apr 1857, Barrackpore
Symbolic title for Bahadur Shah II	Shah-en-shah-i-Hindustan
Subsequent major revolt	Meerut uprising, 10 May 1857
Regiment fate	34th BNI disbanded for disaffection

GS-1Mapping

11.Guryul Ravine Permian–Triassic Fossil Site (Permian–Triassic Fossil)

DHGuryul Ravine · Permian–Triassic boundary · Great Dying

Illustration for Guryul Ravine Permian–Triassic Fossil Site (Permian–Triassic Fossil)

What & Where

Fossil site recording Permian–Triassic mass-extinction, ~260 Ma old

Formed during volcanic upheaval, oxygen decline, mixed marine–terrestrial sedimentation

Situated at Guryul Ravine, Khonmoh, outskirts Srinagar, J-&-K (Vihi District)

Quick Facts for MCQs

Scientific Value

Palaeoclimate: Strata chronicle abrupt warming, oceanic anoxia, biodiversity collapse
Biostratigraphy: Rich fossil continuum aids extinction recovery mapping
Tsunami: Earliest known sedimentary imprint guides hazard paleostudies

Conservation & Threats

Quarrying: Ongoing limestone extraction eroding boundary layers
Land diversion: Non-scientific use violates 2017 fossil-zone notification
GSI warning: Urgent call for National Geological Monument tagging

International Context

Scale: Boundary section tenfold thicker than China’s global stratotype
Collaboration: Frequent expeditions by US, Japan, China universities
Recognition gap: Lacks UNESCO status unlike Meishan Benchmark

Tourism Angle

Geotourism: Potential flagship site for Kashmir earth-heritage circuit
Comparative draw: Could mirror Meishan visitor economy if conserved
Education: Open-air classroom for schools, researchers, enthusiasts

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Geological age	~260 million years
Mass-extinction event	Permian–Triassic “Great Dying”
Species loss rates	90 % marine; 70 % terrestrial
Boundary layer thickness	≈3 m
Meishan comparison	China site only 27 cm
Oldest tsunami record	Preserved in exposed strata
Protection order year	2017 (J-&-K Govt)
Notified area	9.8 lakh sqm
UNESCO eligibility	Global Geopark candidate
Global researchers	>10 countries visit site

GS-3S&T

12.Cy-TB Latent Tuberculosis Skin Test (TB Diagnostics)

The HinduCy-TB test · latent TB infection · ESAT-6 & CFP-10

Illustration for Cy-TB Latent Tuberculosis Skin Test (TB Diagnostics)

What & Where

Cy-TB: intradermal skin test using ESAT-6 & CFP-10 antigens for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) detection

Process: inject 0.1 ml into inner forearm; measure induration after 48–72 h

Roll-out: first adopted by Kerala under National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP)

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Integration; Kerala pioneer introducing Cy-TB under NTEP scale-up roadmap
Support; ICMR funding, state TB units manage cold-chain, training, reporting

Operational Edge

Specificity; ESAT-6, CFP-10 antigens minimise BCG cross-reaction, improving diagnostic accuracy
Logistics; no phlebotomy, no lab, reading onsite within 3 days ideal for outreach camps
Follow-up; booster phenomenon assists serial testing in long-latent infections, supports contact surveillance

Safety & Limitations

Reactogenicity; itching, swelling common, ulceration rare, monitored via active pharmacovigilance
Limitation; cannot differentiate latent from active TB, clinical correlation mandatory
Contraindication; avoid use during severe skin disorders at injection site

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Test type	New-generation intradermal LTBI skin test
Antigens used	ESAT-6 and CFP-10
Detects	TB exposure/latent infection
Injection volume	0.1 ml
Reading window	48–72 hours
Positive cut-off	Induration ≥ 5 mm
Target group	Adults ≥ 18 y, high-risk contacts
Active vs latent	Cannot differentiate
Vial size	10 doses
Shelf life	28 days refrigerated
Equipment need	None; visual on-site reading
Common reactions	Mild itching or swelling; rare ulceration
Programme anchor	NTEP with ICMR support

GS-3S&T

13.AdFalciVax Indigenous Two-Stage Malaria Vaccine (Malaria Vaccine)

DD newsAdFalciVax · Plasmodium falciparum · ICMR

Illustration for AdFalciVax Indigenous Two-Stage Malaria Vaccine (Malaria Vaccine)

What & Where

AdFalciVax; India’s first indigenous recombinant two-stage vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Blends liver-stage CSP fragment with mosquito-stage Pfs25 antigen; aims at infection prevention and transmission blockade

Jointly created by ICMR-RMRC Bhubaneswar, NIMR, DBT-NII; expressed in food-grade Lactococcus lactis platform

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Multistage design; lowers immune evasion and extends protection span
Food-grade bacterial expression; enables low-cost, scalable GMP production
Non-exclusive licensing; accelerates private participation in vaccine rollout

Health & Social Impact

Dual protection; expected reduction in morbidity and mortality in endemic zones
Transmission blocking; community-level herd protection without full coverage requirement
Indigenous development; boosts public confidence and equitable rural access

Policy & Targets

Aligns with National Framework for Malaria Elimination 2016-30 milestones
Complements Ayushman Bharat preventive health thrust and SDG 3.3 on communicable diseases
Demonstrates Atmanirbhar Bharat capability in tropical disease solutions

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parasite Target	Plasmodium falciparum
Vaccine Type	Recombinant chimeric multistage antigen
Stages Covered	Pre-erythrocytic (liver) + Sexual (mosquito)
Core Developers	ICMR, RMRC-Bhubaneswar, NIMR, DBT-NII
Expression Host	Lactococcus lactis
Room-Temp Stability	≥ 9 months
Licensing Plan	Non-exclusive, global & domestic partnerships
National Goal Supported	Malaria elimination by 2030
Flagship Mission	Make in India – Vaccine innovation
Key Beneficiaries	Tribal, high-endemic belts

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2010PYQ 1

Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine ?

GS-3S&TQuick Bite

14.Optical Atomic Clocks Redefine the Second (Optical Atomic Clocks)

The Hinduoptical atomic clock · SI second · strontium-87

What & Where

Second now defined via 9 192 631 770 microwave cycles of Caesium-133 (1967, SI system).

Optical atomic clocks use Strontium-87, Ytterbium-171, Indium-115 transitions in visible range for ultra-stable timing.

2025 experiment gave most precise optical-clock comparison; target is SI-second redefinition by 2030.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Laser interrogation produces highly coherent light stabilised to atomic transition.
Higher photon energy boosts signal-to-noise, yielding 10 000× finer frequency resolution than microwaves.
International labs synchronise optical clocks via fibre links and satellite transfer.

Accuracy Benchmark

Comparison experiment achieved world-record fractional uncertainty below 10⁻¹⁸.
Optical clocks could redefine second once reproducibility shown across multiple labs.
Shift requires global consensus via International Bureau of Weights and Measures.

Applications

Quantum sensing enables tiny gravity-potential mapping for geodesy and mineral surveys.
Network synchronisation supports sub-nanosecond timing for 6G, financial trading, distributed computing.
Space missions may use optical clocks for deep-space navigation and tests of General Relativity.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Current SI definition year	1967
Caesium-133 reference frequency	9 192 631 770 Hz (microwave)
Atomic clock inventor	Louise Essen, 1955
Drift: optical clock	1 s in 15 billion years
Drift: cesium clock	1 s in 300 million years
Optical clock frequency band	Visible/optical
Main optical-clock isotopes	Sr-87, Yb-171, In-115
Accuracy gain over cesium	~100×
Potential SI update deadline	2030 (planned)
Key application cluster	Quantum sensing, high-speed networks, space science, fundamental tests

GS-2Misc

15.Codex Alimentarius Global Food Safety Standards (Food Safety Standards)

Times of IndiaCodex Alimentarius · FAO-WHO · SPS Agreement

Illustration for Codex Alimentarius Global Food Safety Standards (Food Safety Standards)

What & Where

Definition – Codex Alimentarius: global compendium of food standards, guidelines, codes of practice for safety & fair trade

Establishment – 1963, joint FAO-WHO initiative; secretariat housed in Rome, Italy

Coverage – hygiene, additives, labelling, pesticide residues, contaminants; reference for WTO SPS matters

Quick Facts for MCQs

Leadership & Committees

India – chairs Codex Committee on Spices & Culinary Herbs; steers whole-millet standard
Appreciation – CCEXEC88 lauded India’s millet leadership and SMART KPI inputs
Co-chairs – Mali, Nigeria, Senegal share millet drafting responsibility

Standards & Science

Science-based – standards rely on JECFA, JMPR risk evaluations
Coverage – includes additives, pesticide residues, contaminants, labelling, hygiene
WTO relevance – cited in dispute settlements for SPS consistency

Capacity Building

Mentorship – India trained Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka via Codex Trust Fund
Objective – harmonise regional regulations, cut non-tariff barriers
Outcome – enhances South-South cooperation within Codex framework

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Founding bodies	FAO & WHO
Year created	1963
Headquarters	Rome, Italy
Legal nature	Voluntary but globally influential
WTO link	Reference text for SPS Agreement
Main risk-assessment inputs	JECFA, JMPR
India-chaired Codex bodies	CCSCH; Whole-Millet Working Group
CCSCH launch year	2014
Whole-millet co-chairs	Mali, Nigeria, Senegal
Latest executive meet	CCEXEC88, Rome
Strategic plan window	2026-2031
KPI approach	SMART indicators
Regional trainees by India	Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2010PYQ 1

As regards the use of international food safety standards as reference point for the dispute settlements, which one of the following does WTO collaborate with?

GS1 2015PYQ 2

The terms ‘Agreement on Agriculture’, ‘Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures’ and ‘Peace Clause’ appear in the news frequently in the context of the affairs of the

GS-2Scheme

16.Common Service Centres for Rural E-Governance (Common Service Centres)

PIBCSC scheme · Digital India · MeitY

What & Where

Definition: Common Services Centres (CSCs) are MeitY‐backed digital kiosks delivering G2C & B2C services, mainly in rural India

Process: Operate via PPP 3-tier chain—Village Level Entrepreneur (VLE) → Service Centre Agency (SCA) → State Designated Agency (SDA)

Geography: Present in all states; CSC 2.0 targets one outlet in each of 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

NeGP 2006 provides umbrella for CSC scheme; Digital India 2015 gives renewed thrust
SPV CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd incorporated under Companies Act 1956 to monitor network
PPP structure legally recognises VLE, SCA, SDA as distinct implementation tiers

Tech & Schemes

Backbone: BharatNet, SWAN, SDC, SSDG enable real-time service portals and cloud hosting
Integration: Aadhaar, PAN, DigiLocker, UPI, IRCTC, utility payments offered at single kiosk window
IndiaAI Mission 34,000+ GPUs (2025) set to enrich CSC‐based AI applications and skilling modules

Economic Angle

Services: Banking, insurance, pensions, PM-KISAN, DBT improve rural liquidity and credit uptake
2022 MoU lets PACS & LAMPS act as CSCs, expanding agri-credit and market linkages
CSC Grameen eStore platform opens rural e-commerce, supporting local producers and logistics

Social Inclusion

Workforce: 74,000+ women VLEs foster gendered entrepreneurship and village leadership
Literacy: PMGDISHA, skill courses run via CSCs to bridge digital divide for youth, SC/ST, minorities
Language: BHASHINI stack adds 35+ vernaculars, guaranteeing multilingual access to e-services

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Implementing ministry	MeitY
Approval under NeGP	2006
SPV formed	16 Jul 2009
Current CSCs (2025)	>6.5 lakh
CSCs in 2014	83,000
Decadal growth	≈680 %
CSC 2.0 launch	2015
Gram Panchayat target	2.5 lakh
Women VLEs	>74,000
PACS/LAMPS tie-up year	2022
Digital India launch	1 Jul 2015

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2020PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the nodal department to implement public internet access program and rural internet connectivity by converting its offices as multi-service centres?

ESE_GS 2026PYQ 2

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

GS-2Scheme

17.NAMASTE Scheme for Safe Sanitation Work (NAMASTE Sanitation Scheme)

PIBNAMASTE · mechanised desludging · MoHUA & MoSJE

What & Where

Manual scavenging = human-excreta removal from dry latrines, sewers, septic tanks; banned under PEMSR Act 2013

NAMASTE = 2022 Central-Sector scheme targeting 100 % mechanical desludging across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)

Geography focus = nationwide roll-out; joint MoHUA + MoSJE implementation, budgeted via Union Budget 2023-24

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Identification : Census of Sewer/Septic-Tank Workers, issuance of IDs
Mechanisation : Funding support for jetting, grabber, suction machines to SHG-run enterprises
IEC drive : Joint ULB-NSKFDC campaigns promoting registered, trained service providers

Legal & Policy

PEMSR Act 2013 superseded 1993 law; outlaws insanitary latrine cleaning, dry latrine construction
Draft 2020 amendment seeks full mechanisation, on-site safety, statutory compensation; awaiting Cabinet nod
Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989 safeguards Dalit sanitation workers, majority of manual scavengers

Social Concerns

Caste-linked : >90 % manual scavengers belong to Scheduled Castes
Livelihood shift : NAMASTE subsidies encourage transition to mechanised, safer sanitation enterprises
Awareness gap : Scheme mandates campaigns to alter user demand toward certified safe services

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Budget 2023-24 allotment	₹100 crore
Launch year of NAMASTE	2022
Implementing ministries	MoHUA & MoSJE
Scheme nature	Central Sector
Target coverage	100 % ULBs, all cities & towns
Health cover channel	AB-PMJAY
Key objective	Zero fatalities in sanitation work
Worker collectivisation	Self-Help Groups
Financial aid	Capital + interest subsidy for machinery
PPE & training	Provided to all identified SSWs
Supervisory tiers	National, State, ULB
Manual scavenging ban Act	PEMSR Act 2013
Pending amendment bill	2020 Draft mechanisation bill
SC compensation (2014)	₹10 lakh per sewer-death

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

'Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan' is a national campaign to

GS-1Scheme

18.Kashi Declaration on Youth-Led Drug Eradication (Drug Abuse Action)

Hindustan TimesKashi Declaration · Youth Spiritual Summit · Nasha Mukt Yuva

Illustration for Kashi Declaration on Youth-Led Drug Eradication (Drug Abuse Action)

What & Where

Instrument: Kashi Declaration – national action plan against substance abuse

Venue: Youth Spiritual Summit 2025, Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh

Scope: Youth & spiritual leadership-driven, whole-of-society, multi-ministerial framework

Quick Facts for MCQs

Objectives

Eradication: build drug-free youth base for Viksit Bharat 2047
Spiritualisation: leverage India’s spiritual capital for prevention & recovery
Integration: families, communities, institutions aligned in single continuum

Institutional Mechanism

Multi-ministerial: Youth, Social Justice, Culture, Labour, Home coordinate actions
Joint Committee: central node for planning, funding, reporting
Annual audit: progress gauged at 2026 Young Leaders Dialogue

Outreach & Engagement

MY Bharat clubs: spearhead pledge drives, de-addiction camps, helplines
Community campaigns: grassroots workshops, culturally rooted messaging
Digital safeguards: monitoring platforms vs online drug solicitation

Monitoring & Evaluation

Digital dashboard: real-time tracking of outreach metrics
Indicators: volunteer numbers, rehab enrolments, awareness sessions held

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Declaring Ministry	Youth Affairs & Sports
Target Year	Viksit Bharat 2047
Core Motto	“Nasha Mukt Yuva”
Key Platform	MY Bharat youth clubs
Coordination Body	Joint National Committee
Review Event	Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026
Digital Focus	Counter online targeting of school children
Thematic Sessions	Psychology, Trafficking, Awareness, Spiritual Rehab
Allied Ministries	Social Justice, Culture, Labour, Home Affairs
Monitoring Tool	Annual progress reports & digital dashboard

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