Friday, 8 August 2025

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Consider the following pairs with reference to National Waterways (NW) in India and the associated rivers:

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

Q: On which among the following is National Waterway No. 2 situated?

The correct answer is (a) The Ganga, Haldia–Prayagraj. This question appeared in CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024.

Q: Which one of the following is the latest in series being organized as the largest virtual gathering to create dialogues, and accelerate innovation in agriculture ?

The correct answer is (c) ENSURE. This question appeared in ESE_GS 2021.

Q: What is ‘Little Boy’?

The correct answer is (a) The fission bomb dropped at Hiroshima. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2020.

Q: With which one of the following movements is the slogan “Do or die” associated?

The correct answer is (a) Swadeshi Movement. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2009.

Q: With reference to 8th August, 1942 in the Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct?

The correct answer is (a) The Congress Ministries resigned in seven provinces.. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2026.

Q: Keppel Island is completely bleached mainly due to the expansion of

The correct answer is (a) Starfish. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: The largest barrier reef system in the world is found at

The correct answer is (b) West Australian Coast. This question appeared in CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2020.

Q: What is the use of biochar in farming?

The correct answer is (d) 1, 2 and 3. This question appeared in GS1 2020.

Q: Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?

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

16 topicsGS-1: 3GS-2: 3GS-3: 10

0/16 done

GS-3Infrastructure

1.Kartavya Bhavan Central Secretariat (Central Vista)

Business StandardKartavya Bhavan · Common Central Secretariat · green building

Illustration for Kartavya Bhavan Central Secretariat (Central Vista)

What & Where

Newly built Kartavya Bhavan-03, first Common Central Secretariat block under Central Vista redevelopment

Situated on Central Vista, New Delhi

Objective consolidate 50+ dispersed ministry offices into ten modern, sustainable headquarters

Quick Facts for MCQs

Design & Structure

Configuration seven storeys with noise-insulated glass and energy-efficient HVAC
Twin basements host parking, services enhancing surface green space
Centralised command hub monitors building operations 24×7

Green Measures

Infrastructure rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting, zero-discharge waste processing reduce environmental footprint
Energy efficiency measures seek 30 % consumption cut, qualifying for GRIHA-4
HVAC and sensor lighting minimise heat gain and electricity use

Digital & Security Systems

Features digital workspaces, Wi-Fi, and sensor-based lighting for seamless e-governance
Smart ID cards enable controlled, traceable access across zones
CCTV network integrated with command centre for real-time security analytics

Economic Angle

Consolidation eliminates high private rent, driving ₹1,500 crore yearly savings post completion
Centralised facilities trim duplicate maintenance and utilities across scattered locations
Efficiency gains expected to accelerate inter-ministerial coordination and decision speed

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Building code	Kartavya Bhavan-03
Location	Central Vista, New Delhi
Planned CCS blocks	10
Built-up area	1.5 lakh sq m
Floors	7 + 2 basements
Ministries accommodated	Home, External Affairs, Rural Dev, Petroleum, MSME, DoPT, PSA
Rooftop solar yield	~5.34 lakh kWh/year
Target green rating	GRIHA-4
Energy cut aim	30 % vs conventional
Post-project rent saving	₹1,500 crore/year

GS-3Infrastructure

2.India Inland Water Transport (Inland Waterways)

PIBInland Waterways · IWAI · National Waterway-57

What & Where

Inland Waterway: navigable river/lake/canal supporting ≥50-ton vessels; India possesses 14,500 km such stretches.

National Waterway-57: 44 km Kopili River, Assam; fourth operational NW in state after Brahmaputra-2, Barak-16, Dhansiri-31.

Northeast link: waterways connect Brahmaputra basin with Bangladesh & mainland logistics grid under PM Gati Shakti.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Acts: IWAI 1985, National Waterways 2016, Inland Vessels 2021, Jetties/Terminals Regulations 2025 streamline governance.
Scheme: Jalvahak 2024 offers 35 % cost reimbursement to shift freight from road/rail to waterways.
Budget 2025-26 extends tonnage-tax to IWT, attracting private capital.

Growth & Targets

Expansion: operational NW length rose 2,716 km (2014) to 4,894 km (2023).
Goal 2030: raise freight share 2 %→5 %, surpass 200 MMT cargo.
Vision 2047: Maritime Amrit Kaal aims 500 MMT inland water traffic.

Bottlenecks

Navigability: seasonal depth loss, heavy siltation necessitate costly dredging, hamper year-round traffic.
Infrastructure: scarce jetties, poor multimodal links, limited finance keep waterborne trade at 3.5 % share.
Connectivity: weak first-last mile access nudges industries toward road/rail alternatives.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
IWAI setup	Oct 1986
National Waterways declared	111 (Act 2016)
Operational NWs 2014-15	3
Operational NWs 2024-25	29
Operational length 2023-24	4,894 km
Min channel width/depth	45 m / 1.5 m
Min continuous stretch	50 km
Cargo moved 2023-24	133 MMT
CAGR 2013-24	22.1 %
IWT cost per ton-km	₹0.25–0.30
CO₂ emission IWT	32–36 g ton-km
Fuel efficiency IWT	105 ton-km / litre
2047 cargo vision	500 + MMT

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2025PYQ 1

Consider the following pairs with reference to National Waterways (NW) in India and the associated rivers:

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

On which among the following is National Waterway No. 2 situated?

GS-3EconomyQuick Bite

3.MS Swaminathan Centenary Conference (Green Revolution)

PIBMS Swaminathan · Evergreen Revolution · high-yield crops

What & Where

Event MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference; global meet on sustainable agriculture

Theme Evergreen Revolution—the pathway to biohappiness, blends food security with ecology

Venue New Delhi, inaugurated 8 Aug 2025 by Indian Prime Minister

Quick Facts for MCQs

Agricultural Innovations

Semi-dwarf wheat, high-yield rice raised yields, stabilised national food security
Concept Evergreen Revolution advocates continuous productivity without ecological harm
Promoted climate-resilient cropping patterns for smallholders

Environmental Impact

Early champion of mangrove restoration, enhancing coastal biodiversity and storm protection
Linked agriculture with ecological services, framing biohappiness narrative
Encouraged organic inputs, low-chemical practices to curb land degradation

Recognition & Awards

Posthumous Bharat Ratna 2024 acknowledges agrarian transformation leadership
UNEP labelled him Father of Economic Ecology for marrying productivity with conservation
Centenary conference spotlights 100 years legacy, guides future agri-policy

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Conference year	2025
Conference theme	Evergreen Revolution: Pathway to Biohappiness
Location	New Delhi, India
Prime mover	MS Swaminathan, Father of India’s Green Revolution
Key collaboration	With Norman Borlaug on semi-dwarf wheat
Core outcome	Surge in Indian wheat production, 1960s-70s
Environmental focus	Mangrove restoration, sustainable farming models
Highest civilian honour	Bharat Ratna (posthumous) 2024
UNEP title	Father of Economic Ecology
Core concept coined	Evergreen Revolution

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the latest in series being organized as the largest virtual gathering to create dialogues, and accelerate innovation in agriculture ?

GS-1History

4.Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings (World War II)

Hindustan TimesHiroshima · Nagasaki · Pearl Harbor

Illustration for Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings (World War II)

What & Where

Atomic bombings = first wartime nuclear strikes by USA on Hiroshima (Honshu) and Nagasaki (Kyushu), August 1945.

Weapons: Little Boy (uranium gun-type) & Fat Man (plutonium implosion) from secret Manhattan Project (1942-45).

Targets picked for military-industrial hubs, clear blast assessment, and to deter planned Allied land invasion.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Military Strategy

Objective: Force unconditional surrender; avoid protracted amphibious assault after brutal Okinawa casualty lessons.
Selection: Targets spared earlier firebombing to gauge pure atomic impact; Kokura skipped due to cloud cover.
Timing: Dual strikes within 72 hours intended to signal repeatable capability and urgency.

Geopolitical Dimension

Deterrence: Demonstrated U.S. power as Cold War opening move; message to USSR amid Asia power vacuum.
Soviet entry accelerated U.S. schedule; fear of partitioned Japan mirrored earlier German precedent.
Post-1945, nuclear monopoly lasted until USSR test (1949), igniting global arms race and NPT debates.

Human Cost

Radiation: Acute sickness, leukemia spikes, genetic effects documented by ABCC and later RERF studies.
Infrastructure: Over 60% of Hiroshima buildings destroyed; Nagasaki’s Urakami valley obliterated.
Ethics debate: Civilian targeting questioned under just-war principles; spurred modern IHL refinements.

Technological Milestone

Nuclear physics: Proved controlled fission deliverable via aircraft; catalysed reactor, medical isotope, energy research.
Security doctrine: Introduced Mutually Assured Destruction, second-strike capability, and constant alert postures.
Governance: Prompted UN Atomic Energy Commission (1946) and later IAEA (1957) for oversight.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Hiroshima strike date	6 Aug 1945
Nagasaki strike date	9 Aug 1945
Aircraft (Hiroshima)	B-29 Enola Gay
Aircraft (Nagasaki)	B-29 Bockscar
Immediate deaths Hiroshima	≈ 80,000
Immediate deaths Nagasaki	≈ 40,000
Total 1945 deaths Hiroshima	≈ 1.4 lakh
Total 1945 deaths Nagasaki	≈ 73,000
Bomb yield Little Boy	~15 kilotons TNT
Bomb yield Fat Man	~21 kilotons TNT
Trinity test date/place	16 Jul 1945, New Mexico
Potsdam Declaration issued	26 Jul 1945
USSR enters war on Japan	8 Aug 1945
Planned invasion codename	Operation Downfall
Estimated Allied casualties Downfall	Up to 1 million
Formal Japanese surrender	2 Sep 1945, USS Missouri
Manhattan Project cost	≈ $2 billion (1945)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2020PYQ 1

What is ‘Little Boy’?

GS-1History

5.Quit India Movement Commemoration (Quit India)

Indian ExpressQuit India · Do or Die · August Kranti

What & Where

Mass uprising seeking immediate British withdrawal, launched 8 Aug 1942 by Gandhi during AICC session, Bombay

Venue Gowalia Tank Maidan (August Kranti Maidan); slogan “Quit India” and call “Do or Die” galvanised nation

Movement spread nationwide; temporary parallel governments in Ballia, Tamluk, Satara displayed de-facto self-rule

Quick Facts for MCQs

Precipitating Factors

WWII entry without consultation, Burma fall and invasion fears intensified demand for British exit
Cripps Mission March 1942 offered post-war dominion; Gandhi called it “post-dated cheque”, sparking outrage
Famine fears from wartime rice exports and economic exploitation sharpened mass resentment

Participation & Methods

Leaderless phase saw students, youth conduct strikes, sabotage rail and telegraph lines across urban centres
Strategy officially non-violent; Gandhi allowed self-defence, causing sporadic attacks on colonial property
Muslim League non-participation underscored growing communal divide and demand for separate state

Outcomes

British authority collapsed temporarily; Ballia, Tamluk, Satara instituted parallel governments for days to weeks
Harsh repression involved mass detentions, censorship, collective fines yet failed to restore full legitimacy
Movement’s psychological impact convinced British establishment independence was inevitable, paving for 1947 power transfer

Key Personalities

Gandhi’s Do-or-Die mantra launched; Aruna Asaf Ali unfurled Tricolour at Gowalia Tank amid police crackdown
Socialist Yusuf Meherally coined Quit India and earlier Simon Go Back slogans, shaping agitational messaging
Emerging leaders Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Sucheta Kripalani, Matangini Hazra, Usha Mehta showcased youth and women energy

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launch date	8 August 1942
Launch venue	Gowalia Tank Maidan, Bombay
Gandhi’s call	Do or Die
Slogan creator	Yusuf Meherally
Immediate trigger	Failure of Cripps Mission 1942
Flag unfurled by	Aruna Asaf Ali
Parallel governments	Ballia, Tamluk, Satara
Major non-participant	Muslim League

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2009PYQ 1

With which one of the following movements is the slogan “Do or die” associated?

GEO_GS, GS1 2026PYQ 2

With reference to 8th August, 1942 in the Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct?

GS-1Mapping

6.Sudan Geographical Overview (African Geography)

FPKhartoum · Blue Nile · White Nile

Illustration for Sudan Geographical Overview (African Geography)

What & Where

Sudan: Northeastern African country in SAF–RSF civil war since Apr 2023

Nyala: South Darfur capital, RSF-held airstrip near Chad and gold routes

Nile system: Blue & White Nile meet at Khartoum, flow north to Egypt

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

SAF airstrike on Nyala Airport killed 40 Colombian mercenaries supporting RSF
Strike destroyed UAE-linked aircraft, curbing RSF air mobility
Nyala airstrip vital for RSF logistics and border access to Chad

Physical Geography

Marrah Mountains volcanic highlands create Nile–Congo watershed around 3000 m
Nubian Desert & Qawz Region hold rock plateaus and extensive sand dunes north
Clay-rich Gezira Plain between Nile branches enables intensive irrigation farming

Economic Angle

Nyala corridor central to RSF-controlled gold smuggling into Chad markets
Gezira Plain anchors historic cotton-based Gezira Scheme, key foreign-exchange earner
Conflict disrupts airport trade channels and mineral revenue streams

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Capital	Khartoum
River confluence	Blue + White Nile
Civil war onset	April 2023
Neighbouring states	Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Chad, C.A.R., Libya
Coastline	Red Sea
Highest highlands	Marrah Mountains ≈ 3000 m
Major desert	Nubian Desert (north)
Fertile plain	Gezira clay plain
Region in news	South Darfur (Nyala)
Airstrike deaths	40 Colombian mercenaries
Destroyed asset	Suspected UAE-supplied aircraft to RSF

GS-3Environment

7.Tuvalu Climate Migration Treaty (Climate Migration)

Times of IndiaTuvalu · Falepili Union · sea-level rise

Illustration for Tuvalu Climate Migration Treaty (Climate Migration)

What & Where

Definition: First state-led climate-migration scheme relocating Tuvalu citizens permanently to Australia.

Treaty-base: Operates under 2023 Falepili Union Treaty granting annual residency quotas.

Geography: Tuvalu—9 coral atolls, central Pacific, avg elevation 2 m, acutely threatened by sea-level rise.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Treaty: Falepili Union creates climate-mobility pathway plus socioeconomic safeguards for migrants.
Residency: Visas confer healthcare, education, housing, employment parity in Australia.
Allocation: Ballot method ensures transparent, dignity-based migrant selection.

Environmental Impact

Sea-level: NASA warns most Tuvalu land may drown by 2050.
Elevation: Low-lying 2 m profile heightens flood, storm, erosion risks.
Precedent: Imminent loss drives first whole-nation relocation initiative.

Economic Angle

Revenue: Economy hinges on fishing licences, foreign aid, seafarer remittances.
Limitation: Tiny landmass inflates adaptation costs, favors migration alternative.
Scale: Small population enables 4 % annual relocation without overwhelming host.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Treaty year	2023
Treaty name	Falepili Union
Permanent visas / yr	280
Selection tool	Public ballot
First ballot applicants	8,750
Max migration share	Up to 4 % population / yr
Average elevation	~2 m
Submergence forecast	2050 (NASA)
Capital city	Funafuti
Land area	25.14 sq km
Population 2022	≈11,000
Atolls count	9

GS-3Environment

8.Great Barrier Reef Coral Bleaching (Coral Bleaching)

ITGreat Barrier Reef · coral bleaching · sea temperature

Illustration for Great Barrier Reef Coral Bleaching (Coral Bleaching)

What & Where

Coral bleaching = stress-expulsion of zooxanthellae algae from coral tissue, leaving white, energy-starved skeleton

Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea off northeast Australia, world’s largest reef (~2 300 km), now at 40-yr record cover loss

Bleaching reversibility possible if stress brief; prolonged stress leads to coral mortality and reef ecosystem collapse

Quick Facts for MCQs

Causes & Triggers

Temperature spike; climate change and El Niño amplify sea-surface heat
Pollution runoff; nutrients fuel algal blooms lowering water quality
Solar irradiance, extreme low tides, occasional cold snaps add stress layers

Bleaching Sequence

Symbiosis; algae photosynthesise, feed and colour coral
Stress signal; coral physiology disturbed, oxidative damage rises
Algae expulsion; tissue transparent, white skeleton visible, disease risk high

Impacts

Ecosystem loss; nursery and feeding grounds vanish, biodiversity plummets
Economic hit; reef tourism, coastal fisheries revenues shrink, shoreline erosion rises
Carbon role; dead reefs store less carbon, weaken natural wave barriers

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Location	Coral Sea, Queensland coast, Australia
Length	~2 300 km reef system
2024 Status	Largest annual coral cover decline in ~40 years
Main stressors	Heat bleaching, cyclones, crown-of-thorns starfish
Symbiotic algae	Zooxanthellae
Reef-dependent biodiversity	≈25 % of all marine species
Key economic stakes	Fisheries, tourism, coastal protection
Possible recovery	Algae recolonisation if stress short-lived

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 1

Keppel Island is completely bleached mainly due to the expansion of

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2020PYQ 2

The largest barrier reef system in the world is found at

GS-3Environment

9.Biochar Potential in India (Biochar Technology)

The Hindubiochar · pyrolysis · carbon credits

Illustration for Biochar Potential in India (Biochar Technology)

What & Where

Definition: Biochar = porous, carbon-rich solid from pyrolysis of agri-residue or organic municipal waste in low-/no-oxygen.

Process sites: Decentralised village units, stubble-burning belts (Punjab), municipal waste hubs in urban India.

Application spread: Soil additive, concrete filler, syngas/bio-oil energy, decentralised wastewater adsorbent.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Energy & Byproducts

Syngas: powers rural micro-grids, delivers diesel-free 8–13 TWh yearly.
Bio-oil: could offset 8 % national diesel/kerosene, trimming 2 % fossil emissions.
Coal-equivalent replacement: 0.4–0.7 MT, easing import dependence.

Agriculture Impact

Water-holding rise improves semi-arid yields by up to 25 %.
Fertiliser need dips 10–20 %, lowering input costs and runoff.
Andhra Pradesh natural-farming pilots report higher soil organic carbon with on-farm biochar.

Construction Use

Concrete blend 2–5 % biochar increases heat resistance 20 %; IIT-Madras confirms mechanical strength gain.
Each m³ biochar-concrete locks ~115 kg CO₂, lowering embodied carbon.
Offers low-carbon material option for India’s $1 trn infrastructure push.

Implementation Gaps

Market: No uniform biomass pricing; feedstock procurement risky.
MRV: Weak carbon accounting deters international credit buyers.
Policy: Biochar absent from mainstream agri, energy, waste frameworks.

Policy Prescriptions

Integration: Add biochar to Crop Residue schemes, SAPCCs, bio-energy policies.
Incentive: Tag biochar as eligible removal tech under upcoming Indian Carbon Market.
R&D: Develop zone-specific pyrolysis standards; promote low-cost indigenous units.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Indian agri-residue output	≈ 600 million tonnes/yr
Organic municipal waste	≈ 60 million tonnes/yr
Potential biochar yield	15–26 million tonnes/yr
CO₂ removal capacity	0.1 gigatonnes CO₂-eq/yr
Rural jobs estimate	up to 5.2 lakh
Syngas co-product	20–30 million tonnes
Bio-oil co-product	24–40 million tonnes
Electricity from syngas+oil	8–13 TWh/yr
Coal replacement potential	0.4–0.7 million tonnes
Fertiliser saving in soils	10–20 %
Crop-yield boost	10–25 %
N₂O emission cut	30–50 %
Biochar in concrete	2–5 % mix sequesters ≈ 115 kg CO₂/m³
Wastewater treated by 1 kg	200–500 litres
Indian carbon market launch	2026 (planned)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2020PYQ 1

What is the use of biochar in farming?

GS1 2012PYQ 2

Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS-3S&T

10.TRISO Advanced Nuclear Fuel (Nuclear Fuel)

IGTRISO · uranium kernel · carbon layers

Illustration for TRISO Advanced Nuclear Fuel (Nuclear Fuel)

What & Where

TRISO = Tri-structural Isotropic Particle Fuel, next-gen nuclear fuel for SMRs & Gen-IV reactors

Fuel kernel (uranium-carbon-oxygen) sealed in three carbon-ceramic layers; pebble or pellet form

USA: DOE selects Standard Nuclear to launch first domestic large-scale TRISO production

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Durability: resists neutron irradiation, corrosion, oxidation, extreme heat
Versatility: compatible with diverse advanced reactor coolants, boosts SMR design flexibility
Production move: Standard Nuclear receives first DOE award for commercial TRISO fuel line

Economic Angle

Supply-chain boost: domestic TRISO reduces enriched-uranium imports cost and risk
Market creation: fuels expected for upcoming US SMR deployments, stimulating reactor manufacturing jobs
Investment signal: DOE funding de-risks private capital in advanced nuclear fuels

Security Dimension

Energy security: diversifies uranium sourcing away from Russia, strengthening national resilience
Proliferation barrier: particle micro-encapsulation complicates material diversion for weapons
Grid stability: high-temperature, meltdown-resistant fuel supports reliable low-carbon baseload power

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Kernel composition	Uranium + carbon + oxygen
Coating layers	3 carbon-ceramic shells
Particle size	Approx. poppy-seed (≤1 mm)
Temp tolerance	>1600 °C without meltdown
Reactor fit	High-temperature gas-cooled & molten-salt
Safety trait	Each particle acts as self-containment
Key developer	US DOE with BWX Tech & Standard Nuclear
Strategic aim	Cut dependence on Russian uranium

GS-3S&T

11.WHO Declares Hepatitis D Carcinogenic (Hepatitis D)

Indian ExpressWHO · Hepatitis D virus · carcinogenic

What & Where

Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) = defective RNA virus needing Hepatitis B surface antigen; WHO now lists it as carcinogenic.

Global presence; Indian cases under-reported, concentrated among intravenous drug users and chronic HBV carriers.

Co- or super-infection swiftly advances fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Health Impact

Risk: Co/super-infection multiplies cirrhosis and HCC chances.
Symptom: Early phase silent; late jaundice, dark urine, fatigue.
Course: Acute hepatitis may evolve into chronic fibrosis.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Test: HDV-RNA PCR confirms active disease.
Drug: Bulevirtide approved abroad; few alternatives exist.
Care: Concurrent HBV suppression and liver monitoring crucial.

Prevention & Vaccination

Vaccine: HBV immunization blocks HDV entry; uptake in India ~50 %.
Harm-reduction: Safe needles, screened blood, condom use indispensable.
Screening: Prioritise IDUs, HBV positives, pregnant women.

Policy & Targets

WHO-Plan: Cut new infections 90 %, deaths 65 % by 2030.
India-Program: National Viral Hepatitis Control aligns with UIP for elimination.
Awareness: World Hepatitis Day marked each 28 July.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
WHO 2025 status	Carcinogenic agent
Virus nature	Defective, HBV-dependent
Cirrhosis/HCC risk	2–6 × vs HBV alone
Global HBV cases 2022	254 million
Global HCV cases 2022	50 million
Hepatitis deaths 2022	1.3 million
HBV vaccine coverage India	≈ 50 %
WHO 2030 infection target	90 % reduction
WHO 2030 death target	65 % reduction
Indian elimination goal	2030 (NVHCP)
Diagnostic gold standard	HDV-RNA assay
Promising therapy	Bulevirtide

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2019PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is not correct?

GS1 2010PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

GS-3S&T

12.ISRO HOPE Space Analog Mission (Space Analog)

ISROHOPE mission · Tso Kar Valley · ISRO

What & Where

HOPE: ISRO’s Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration, a Mars/Moon space-analog mission.

Purpose: simulate long-duration crewed flights to test tech & human factors.

Geography: Tso Kar Valley, Ladakh (≈4 600 m), cold desert Ramsar wetland.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Site Characteristics

Low-pressure, high-UV desert mimics Martian environment allowing ISRU, astrobiology, rover mobility trials
Salty permafrost & sandy regolith enable drilling, habitat sealing, resource extraction validation
Ramsar listing mandates minimal ecological footprint during operations

Mission Objectives

Validate epigenetic, genomic, microbial health protocols for multi-month missions
Stress-test indigenous life-support, habitat modules, EVA suits under extreme hypoxia
Generate operational data for mission planning, crew selection, counter-measure design

Comparative Analog Missions

Domestic: LHAM 2024 Leh; Anugami 2025 GANEX 10-day study
International: NASA Desert RATS Arizona, NEEMO Aquarius undersea, HI-SEAS Hawaii volcanic dome
All focus on EVA procedures, habitat logistics, crew psychology in isolation

Strategic Significance

Strengthens technological readiness under Atmanirbhar Bharat, leveraging public-private-academic consortia
Bridges gap between lab testing & space qualification for low-Earth, lunar, Martian missions
Positions Ladakh as permanent high-altitude research corridor, boosting local STEM and economy

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Agency	ISRO
Altitude	~4 600 m above sea level
Temperature band	+15 °C to –10 °C
Oxygen availability	≈40 % of sea-level value
Soil nature	Rocky, sandy, salt-rich like Mars regolith
UV exposure	High, thin atmosphere
Programme link	Indian Human Spaceflight Programme
Immediate beneficiaries	Gaganyaan, planned lunar landing 2040

GS-2Economy

13.World Trade Organization Overview (WTO Functions)

Times of IndiaWTO · GATT · Uruguay Round

What & Where

WTO; sole multilateral body setting, monitoring and enforcing global trade rules

Key processes: negotiations rounds, dispute settlement, trade policy review

HQ: Geneva, Switzerland; in force since 1 Jan 1995 (superseded 1947 GATT)

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Background

Post-WWII push for rules-based trade led to GATT tariff cuts
Uruguay Round expanded ambit to services and intellectual property
WTO formally operational 1995 replacing GATT institutional vacuum

Objectives

Promote free predictable transparent trade flows
Reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers for goods and services
Support developing and least-developed members’ integration

Core Functions

Administer over 60 multilateral trade agreements across goods services IP
Provide permanent forum for future negotiations among members
Operate legally binding dispute settlement with possible sanctions

Current Dispute Case

Brazil requested WTO consultations over US 50 % tariff on Brazilian imports
First step in dispute process; if unresolved panel formation within 60 days
Highlights continuing use of WTO mechanisms despite Appellate Body paralysis

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Origin agreement	General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1947
Founding round	Uruguay Round 1986-94
Membership	160+ economies (India founding member)
Top decision body	Ministerial Conference (biennial)
Dispute arm	Dispute Settlement Body + Appellate Body
Review tool	Trade Policy Review Mechanism
Capacity aid	Technical assistance, training, infrastructure support
External partners	IMF, World Bank et al.

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GS1 2001PYQ 1

The earlier name of WTO was

ESE_GS, GS1 2020PYQ 2

Which of the following are the main functions of WTO?

GS-3Security

14.Joint Doctrine on Cyberspace Operations (Cyber Doctrine)

PIBJoint Doctrine · cyberspace · CDS

Illustration for Joint Doctrine on Cyberspace Operations (Cyber Doctrine)

What & Where

Doctrine-set: CDS-released Joint Doctrines unify Cyberspace Operations and Amphibious Operations for integrated multi-domain warfare.

Cyberspace: borderless network‐satellite-control-system realm enabling defensive, offensive, intelligence, support and resilience missions.

Amphibious: sea-launched tri-service assaults or HADR actions across India’s coastline and island territories.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Protection: doctrines guard power grids, defence networks, coastal assets from state and non-state threats.
Multiplier: cyber tools amplify kinetic missions, degrading enemy C4I before physical contact.
Reach: amphibious forces secure choke points, island chains, littoral sea lanes.

Tech & Processes

Layering: firewalls, IDS, redundancies deliver depth against malware and intrusions.
Real-time: continuous monitoring enables instant detect-neutralise cycles in cyber battlespaces.
Recovery: backup architecture ensures mission continuity during sustained attacks.

Jointness Agenda

Interoperability: common procedures reduce duplication across services and civil cyber agencies.
Training: unified drills hone beach-landing, network-defence, cross-domain targeting skills.
Doctrine update: living documents adapt with tech change, ensuring future-proof force posture.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Issuing authority	Chief of Defence Staff
Documents	Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations; Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations
Cyberspace traits	Borderless; dual-use; real-time impact; attribution difficult
Key cyber components	Defensive; Offensive; Intelligence & Recon; Support; Resilience
Core cyber principle	Threat-informed, layered, legally compliant action
Amphibious hallmark	Navy-Army-Air Force integration sea-to-shore
Amphibious roles	Combat, HADR, deterrent power projection
Strategic payoff	Hybrid-warfare readiness; maritime superiority
Legal stance	Operations within domestic law & international cyber norms
Diplomacy angle	Signals credible multi-domain capability abroad

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

15.SECI Green Ammonia Auction (Green Hydrogen)

PIBSECI · SIGHT Scheme · Green Ammonia

What & Where

Green Ammonia — carbon-free NH₃ from green-hydrogen electrolysis plus atmospheric nitrogen.

First procurement auction held by SECI under SIGHT Scheme within National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Implemented pan-India; SECI is a Navratna CPSU under MNRE.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

SIGHT: supply-side financial incentives to expand domestic green-hydrogen output.
Auction: India’s inaugural tender dedicated to purchasing green ammonia volumes.
Incentives: payments routed via SECI to eligible manufacturers.

Institutional Setup

SECI: nodal agency for renewable and hydrogen auctions, enjoys autonomous Navratna flexibilities.
MNRE: policy oversight, implements NGHM and SIGHT through SECI instruments.

Applications & Storage

Fertilisers: enables climate-neutral urea, DAP production replacing fossil-based ammonia.
Energy Carrier: usable as zero-carbon fuel in engines, fuel cells, marine propulsion.
Logistics: easier long-range energy trade owing to stable liquid storage conditions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Auction Conducted By	Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
SECI Status	Navratna Central Public Sector Undertaking
Parent Ministry	Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE)
Scheme Name	SIGHT – Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition
Mission Umbrella	National Green Hydrogen Mission
Auction Focus	Green Ammonia procurement
Green Ammonia Inputs	Green hydrogen + atmospheric nitrogen
Key Uses	Fertilisers, zero-carbon engines/fuel cells, marine fuel
Storage Advantage	Liquid at moderate pressure / low temperature

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2025PYQ 1

Which of the statements given below is/are correct?

CAPF_GAI, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following heavy industries:

GS-2SchemeQuick Bite

16.Swadesh Darshan Tourism Scheme (Tourism Circuit)

PIBSwadesh Darshan · Buddhist Circuit · Dekho Apna Desh

What & Where

Swadesh Darshan = Central-Sector scheme (2014-15) for integrated, theme-based tourist-circuit infrastructure across India.

Current push: Buddhist Circuit; 5 projects sanctioned worth ₹325.53 cr plus FAM Train Tour under Dekho Apna Desh.

Core route: Gaya-Bodhgaya, Rajgir-Nalanda (Bihar) & Sarnath-Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Policy & Implementation

Integration: Synergises with Swachh Bharat, Skill India, Make in India.
Selection: Circuits include Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Himalayan, Krishna, Ramayana, Tribal etc.
Assistance: CFA covers physical, digital & soft infrastructure in circuits.

Funding & Infrastructure

Sanction: 5 new Buddhist projects total ₹325.53 cr approved 2021.
Pipeline: PRASHAD adds 30 pilgrimage-infrastructure projects nationwide.
Focus: Bodhgaya, Ajanta, Ellora declared Iconic Tourist Sites for enhanced facilities.

Soft Power & Promotion

Outreach: Biennial Buddhist Conclave markets India in global travel circuits.
Domestic: 2020 Dekho Apna Desh campaign nudges citizens to explore home destinations.
Branding: Buddhist Circuit Train FAM tour showcases heritage to tour operators/media.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Scheme nature	Central Sector
Launch year	2014-15
Implementing ministry	Tourism
CFA recipient	State/UT govts
Thematic circuits	15 identified
Latest sanction	5 Buddhist projects
Sanctioned amount	₹325.53 crore
FAM tour tag	Dekho Apna Desh (2021)
Key Buddhist sites	Bodhgaya, Ajanta, Ellora
Related scheme	PRASHAD (30 projects)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

The scheme PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation & Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) provides assistance for

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