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12 topicsDefense & Security: 3Environment: 1Mapping: 2Misc: 1Polity: 2Science & Technology: 3
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Polity

1.Opium Poppy Cultivation and Regulation (NDPS Regulation)

DD News
Illustration for Opium Poppy Cultivation and Regulation (NDPS Regulation)

What & Where

Flowering plant Papaver somniferum tapped for latex-rich capsules yielding opium alkaloids

Principal licit Indian belt: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh; illicit hotspots: Myanmar’s Shan, Sagaing, Chin

Harvest via manual pod lancing; winter 120-day crop enables tight monitoring

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Monopoly

  • East India Company ran monopoly factories at Ghazipur, Patna
  • Post-1950 cultivation placed under Central Government monopoly
  • British legacy continues via Government Opium & Alkaloid Works

Agronomy

  • Climate cool dry low humidity well-drained soils favour resin-rich capsules
  • Latex exudes when pods scored, collected next day then dried
  • Annual winter crop allows predictable regulatory inspection

Medical & Illicit Uses

  • Morphine analgesic, codeine antitussive, thebaine feeds semi-synthetic opioids
  • Ayurveda Unani Homoeopathy employ regulated opium preparations
  • Raw opium converted to heroin driving narcotics trade

Security Dimension

  • Illicit cultivation finances organised crime and insurgencies
  • Myanmar surge endangers Northeast India via porous Sagaing–Chin corridors
  • Rising farm-gate prices lure growers amid conflict and economic distress

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Myanmar 2023 area53,100 ha
Year-on-year rise17 %
Reporting agencyUNODC
Indian control lawNDPS Act 1985
Global uniquenessIndia only licit opium gum producer
Licensed Indian statesMP, Rajasthan, UP
Crop duration≈120 days
Key alkaloidsMorphine, Codeine, Thebaine
Polity

2.Supreme Court Action on Digital-Arrest Scams (Cyber Fraud Investigation)

The Hindu

What & Where

Definition – “Digital arrest”: fraudsters impersonate enforcement agencies, threaten arrest/account freeze, extort money online.

Core process – Spoofed calls, fake documents, deepfakes, urgent payment demand as “security/fine”.

Geography – Pan-India; ~₹3,000 cr siphoned, seniors heavily targeted.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • SupremeCourt empowered CBI; states/UTs told to give blanket DSPE consent.
  • IntermediaryRules 2021 invoked for platform data disclosure, aiding probes.
  • RBI directed to apply AI/ML for multilayer fund-trail detection.

Tech & Schemes

  • DoT action – blocks international spoofed caller IDs used in FedEx/digital-arrest scams.
  • I4C platform links regional cybercrime coordination centres for intel sharing.
  • National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal allows online FIRs for swift jurisdiction transfer.

Security Dimension

  • INTERPOL collaboration mandated to trace offshore scam networks and mule accounts.
  • Investigation priority set: digital-arrest cases first, then investment & part-time job frauds.
  • CitizenFinancialFraud System via helpline 1930 enables real-time transaction hold within hours.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
SC order year2025
Money lost (Govt estimate)≈ ₹3,000 crore
WhatsApp IDs blocked (till 2024)> 59,000
Primary probe agencyCentral Bureau of Investigation
Statute enabling CBI in StatesDSPE Act 1946 consent
Cybercrime helpline1930

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2024PYQ 1

To increase transparency and consumer awareness and handle customer complaints, a 'Centralised Receipt and Processing Centre' and an 'Integrated Ombudsman Scheme' have been set up. These two schemes are related to which one of the following institutions?

Environment

3.World Summit on Disaster Management 2025 (Disaster Management)

PIB

What & Where

Global World Summit on Disaster Management (WSDM) 2025; platform for disaster-risk science & policy dialogue.

Hosted in Dehradun, Uttarakhand; focus on fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

Targets hydrometeorological hazards via strengthened early-warning infrastructure.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

  • Deployment; Doppler radars, AWS, observatories expand statewide real-time monitoring grid.
  • Nowcast system issues 3-hour alerts to vulnerable districts improving last-mile warning.
  • Agri-startups & CSIR value-addition models promoted for hazard-resilient livelihoods.

International Cooperation

  • Summit gathers scientists, policymakers, industry leaders from multiple nations for shared DRR strategies.
  • Aims aligning Indian adaptation actions with Sendai Framework & Paris climate goals.

Regional Significance

  • Upgrades boost Uttarakhand capacity against cloudbursts, GLOFs, landslides, flash floods.
  • Positions India as South-Asian hub for disaster science & early-warning technology.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Edition/YearWSDM 2025
Venue city/stateDehradun, Uttarakhand
Summit theme“Strengthening International Cooperation for Building Resilient Communities”
Weather radars announced6 units
New surface observatories33 stations
Automatic Weather Stations (AWS)142 installations
Nowcast forecast window3-hour lead time
Key hazardsCloudburst, GLOF, landslide, flash-flood, forest fire
Principal ecosystemHimalayas
India net-zero pledge year2070

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the venue of the UN 2023 Water Conference?

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2025PYQ 2

वर्ष 2025 में निम्नलिखित में से किसके तत्वावधान में आयोजित की गई बैठक का विषय 'दुश्मान युग के लिए सहयोग (Collaboration for the Intelligent Age)' था?

Mapping

4.Bitra Island Lakshadweep Coral Atoll (Island Mapping)

The Hindu
Illustration for Bitra Island Lakshadweep Coral Atoll (Island Mapping)

What & Where

Smallest-inhabited Lakshadweep coral atoll; part of the Amindivi subgroup.

Situated in the Arabian Sea, 483 km west of Kochi, between Perumal Par (N) and Byramgore Reef (NW).

Formed by upward coral growth on a volcanic base, enclosing a calm lagoon protected by a ring reef.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Geological Traits

  • Coral-accretion atop submerged volcano built ring reef structure.
  • Reef barrier dampens monsoon waves, keeping lagoon placid.
  • Sandy cays formed by biogenic debris on reef rim.

Ecological Value

  • Historic seabird breeding ground within fragile Lakshadweep reef ecosystem.
  • Lagoon–reef complex hosts diverse marine fauna, vulnerable to bleaching, erosion.
  • Environmental regulations essential due to limited land and high fragility.

Cultural & Demographic

  • Shrine of Arab saint Malik Mulla attracts inter-island pilgrims annually.
  • Permanent habitation began 1945; island community remains very small.

Security Dimension

  • Naval detachment enhances surveillance of Arabian Sea shipping lanes.
  • Complements IAF runway extensions on Agatti and Minicoy for rapid force projection.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Archipelago groupAmindivi, Lakshadweep
Island componentsMain Bitra (≈0.177 sq km) + southern cay (≈0.009 sq km)
Lagoon area45–54 sq km
Distance from Kochi483 km W
Reef typeCoral atoll
First permanent settlement1945
Pilgrimage landmarkShrine of Malik Mulla
New defence assetIndian Navy detachment (operational 2024-25)
Adjacent air upgradesIAF facilities at Agatti & Minicoy
Mapping

5.East African Rift Valley Seafloor Spreading (East African Rift)

Indian Express
Illustration for East African Rift Valley Seafloor Spreading (East African Rift)

What & Where

Active continental rift valley stretching ~3,500 km Red Sea–Mozambique; divergent boundary between Nubian & Somali plates.

Two arms: volcanic‐rich Eastern Rift (Ethiopia–Kenya) and seismic Western Rift (Uganda–Malawi) with prominent horst–graben faults.

Afar Triple Junction joins Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, East African rifts; GPS shows 5–16 mm/yr plate separation northward.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tectonic Mechanics

  • Mantle-plume upwelling elevates, thermally weakens lithosphere, promoting crustal extension.
  • Extensional stress generates steep normal faults, fissures, frequent earthquakes.
  • Magma intrusions & flood basalts accommodate strain, advance eventual oceanic crust formation.

Geomorphological Outcomes

  • Linear rift basins evolve into deep lakes: Turkana, Malawi, Tanganyika.
  • Progressive crustal thinning may inundate grabens, forging new coastlines.
  • Surface marked by fault scarps, volcanic cones, fissure lava fields.

Socio-Economic Impact

  • Infrastructure risk: road, farm and settlement damage from fissuring & quakes.
  • Disaster-preparedness costs rising for Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania.
  • Potential future seaports for landlocked Uganda, Zambia if ocean basin forms.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Total length~3,500 km
Diverging platesNubian vs Somali
Northern spreading rate5–16 mm / year
Distinct branchesEastern Rift & Western Rift
Key volcanoErta Ale, Ethiopia
Deepest graben lakeLake Tanganyika
Triple-junction nameAfar Triple Junction
Heat driverEast African mantle superplume
1960s magnetic dataConfirms nascent seafloor spreading
Probable futureNew ocean basin isolating Somali plate
Science & Technology

6.Solar Flare X1.9-Class Space Weather (Space Weather)

NASA

What & Where

Solar flare: sudden, intense energy burst from Sun’s magnetically stressed regions near sunspots

Formation: magnetic reconnection in twisted field lines releases photons, plasma, sometimes with coronal mass ejection (CME)

Geography: originates in active regions like giant sunspot group AR 4294–96 now Earth-facing

Quick Facts for MCQs

Space Weather Impact

  • Communication: HF signals, aviation routes, maritime systems suffer outages during peak flare minutes
  • Satellites: Charged particles degrade electronics, raise drag on low-Earth orbit craft
  • Power grids: CME-linked geomagnetic storms induce currents, risking transformer burnout

Sunspot Dynamics

  • Magnetic complexity: β-γ-δ configurations favor large flares
  • Solar rotation: Carries active regions into Earth-facing position every ~27 days
  • Size relevance: Larger sunspots statistically yield higher-class flares

Classification & Metrics

  • GOES satellites: Monitor 1–8 Å X-ray flux to grade flare class and strength
  • Subclasses: Numeric suffix (e.g., 1.9) gives magnitude within letter band
  • Forecast centers: NOAA SWPC issues alerts R1–R5 for radio blackouts linked to flare class

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Current eventX1.9-class flare, 29 Mar 2024 (NASA)
Sunspot groupAR 4294–96, >10 × Earth diameter
X-ray scaleA, B, C, M, X; each step = 10× intensity
Radiation spanRadio, UV, X-ray, gamma-ray
Onset speedMinutes; difficult to forecast
Immediate impactHF radio blackout over Australia
Space-weather riskNavigation loss, satellite damage, geomagnetic storms if CME arrives

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2022PYQ 1

If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth ?

Science & Technology

7.WHO Guideline on GLP-1 Obesity Therapy (GLP-1 Therapy)

Business Standard

What & Where

WHO global guideline on long-term use of GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity management

Applies to adults worldwide; excludes pregnancy cases

Key drugs: semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • Conditional-use status; not a mandatory standard
  • Requires health-system readiness, pricing & procurement plans
  • Added to WHO Essential Medicines List for diabetes, not yet for obesity

Therapeutic Mechanism

  • Appetite-reduction; slows gastric emptying → lower caloric intake
  • Boosts insulin secretion; drops blood glucose, cardio-renal risks
  • Clinical trials show 10–20 % body-weight loss when used long term

Equity & Access

  • Costly injectables risk widening rich-poor obesity gap
  • WHO urges tiered pricing, insurance cover, local manufacturing
  • Combined lifestyle programmes needed to maximise benefit in low-resource settings

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Guideline natureFirst-ever WHO policy on obesity薬
Drug classGLP-1 receptor agonists
Core recommendationConditional, lifelong use + behavioural therapy
Listed exceptionsPregnant women excluded
Access projection<10 % eligible may get drugs by 2030
Science & Technology

8.Alaknanda Spiral Galaxy Discovery (Early Spiral Galaxy)

Indian Express
Illustration for Alaknanda Spiral Galaxy Discovery (Early Spiral Galaxy)

What & Where

Galaxy Alaknanda = mature, two-armed spiral formed 1.5 billion yrs after Big Bang, located ~12 billion light-years from Earth

Found with NASA James Webb Space Telescope; analysis by NCRA–TIFR, Pune

Core galaxy types: spiral, elliptical, irregular; spirals show arms, central bulge, sometimes bars

Quick Facts for MCQs

Discovery Details

  • Instrument JWST infrared sensitivity enabled high-redshift spiral imaging
  • Collaboration Indian astronomers leveraged Webb public data archives
  • Naming convention reflects cultural linkage to Milky Way’s Hindi name Mandakini

Early-Universe Implications

  • Observation contradicts expectation of clumpy, turbulent early disks
  • Suggests rapid mass assembly and cooling mechanisms ≤1.5 Gyr post-Big Bang
  • Supports growing dataset of unexpectedly mature high-z galaxies from JWST

Galaxy Evolution Processes

  • Spiral-bar dynamics redistribute gas, trigger star formation
  • Collisions compress gas clouds; mergers can morph spirals into ellipticals
  • Galactic cannibalism slowly strips dwarfs, building massive halos

Milky Way Context

  • Milky Way diameter >100,000 ly; Sun orbits core every ≈240 Myr
  • Member of Local Group within Laniakea Supercluster
  • Shares spiral morphology akin to Alaknanda, though formed much later

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Telescope usedJames Webb Space Telescope
Discovering instituteNCRA–TIFR, Pune
Cosmic age when formed1.5 billion years
Present distance≈ 12 billion light-years
Structure classTwo-armed spiral with bright bulge
Universe’s age fraction~10 % of current age
Name originHimalayan river Alaknanda
SignificanceChallenges late-formation spiral models
Defense & Security

9.INS Taragiri Nilgiri-Class Stealth Frigate (Stealth Frigate)

The Hindu

What & Where

INS Taragiri — fourth Project 17A Nilgiri-class stealth frigate for Indian Navy

Built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai; delivered September 2023

Multi-mission role across air, surface, sub-surface domains in Indian Ocean Region

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

  • Design integration of BrahMos, MF-STAR and IPMS delivers high automation and network-centric warfare capability
  • CODOG propulsion allows 28+ kn speed with efficient cruising on diesels
  • Project 17A improves earlier Shivalik stealth design via composite superstructure and flush decks

Industrial & Indigenisation

  • MDL executed modular construction with indigenous steel and combat systems
  • Over 200 MSMEs contribute to hull, electronics, weapons achieving 75 % local content
  • Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Indian Navy’s self-reliance roadmap

Fleet Composition

  • Project 17A lineup: INS Nilgiri, Himgiri, Udaygiri, Taragiri, upcoming Dunagiri, two yet unnamed
  • Parallel construction at MDL Mumbai and GRSE Kolkata accelerates deliveries
  • Taragiri delivery showcases compressed timelines against previous frigate projects

Security Dimension

  • Adds potent surface, anti-air and ASW punch boosting Indian Ocean deterrence
  • Stealth profile complicates adversary tracking improving first-strike and survivability
  • Multi-mission capability enables escort, maritime security, and power-projection tasks

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Ship classNilgiri-class (Project 17A)
Sequence in class4th of 7 planned
Builder yardMazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai
PropulsionCODOG: diesel engines + gas turbines; CPP shafts
Stealth measuresReduced radar, acoustic, infrared signatures
Key missilesBrahMos cruise, MRSAM air-defence
Primary radarMF-STAR multifunction AESA
Gun armament76 mm SRGM, 30 mm, 12.7 mm CIWS
ASW suiteTorpedoes and rockets
AutomationIntegrated Platform Management System (IPMS)
Indigenisation level~75 %; >200 MSME suppliers

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

Which one of the following Indian Naval Ships has recently concluded a 17,000-nm trans-ocean intercontinental voyage?

CAPF_GAI, CDS_GK 2024PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements about 'INS Tarmugli' is not correct?

Defense & Security

10.INS Aridaman Indigenous Nuclear Ballistic Submarine (Nuclear Submarine)

IT
Illustration for INS Aridaman Indigenous Nuclear Ballistic Submarine (Nuclear Submarine)

What & Where

INS Aridaman: third Arihant-class SSBN, Strategic Forces Command asset for nuclear second-strike.

Built under Advanced Technology Vessel Project at Ship Building Centre, Visakhapatnam.

Deployed primarily in Indian Ocean to maintain continuous at-sea deterrence.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

  • Deterrence: Strengthens nuclear triad, guarantees second-strike under no-first-use.
  • Patrol: Minimum two-boat rotation enables uninterrupted at-sea presence.
  • Reach: SLBMs allow Indo-Pacific coverage, counterbalancing regional forces.

Indigenisation Drive

  • Components: >90 % Indian-made, including reactor, hull, combat systems.
  • Programme: ATV exemplifies domestic nuclear propulsion capability.
  • Policy: Aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat, spurring ancillary defence industries.

Historical Timeline

  • Inception: ATV initiated late 1980s for credible submarine deterrent.
  • Milestones: INS Arihant 2016, INS Arighat 2024.
  • Addition: INS Aridaman gives India three operational SSBNs, joining elite six-nation club.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
ClassArihant-class SSBN
Displacement (submerged)~7,000 t
Reactor Power83 MW pressurised water reactor
Launch Tubes4 vertical
Missile Load24 × K-15 (750 km) or K-4 (3,500 km)
Indigenous Content>90 %
Construction ProgrammeAdvanced Technology Vessel (ATV)
Operational ControlStrategic Forces Command

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2016PYQ 1

Which one of the following is the best description of 'INS Astradharini', that was in the news recently?

CDS_GK, GS1 2025PYQ 2

Which of the following statements are correct about ‘Arnala’, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft ?

Defense & SecurityQuick Bite

11.Exercise Ekuverin India-Maldives Joint Drill (India-Maldives Exercise)

PIB

What & Where

Exercise Ekuverin: annual India-Maldives joint army drill; name means “Friends” in Dhivehi.

10th edition: 7–20 Oct 2019, Pune, Maharashtra; alternates yearly between both nations since 2009.

Scenario: counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism in semi-urban terrain under prospective UN peacekeeping mandate.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

  • Interoperability: joint planning, cordon-and-search, casualty evacuation, IED handling for CI/CT readiness.
  • UN-mandate drill: aligns tactics with peacekeeping Rules of Engagement, civilian protection standards.
  • Semi-urban training: mirrors likely terrorist hideouts in island/peninsular settings of both nations.

Bilateral Relations

  • Defense diplomacy: strengthens India’s SAGAR vision, Maldives’ “India First” policy trust.
  • Capacity-building: offers Maldivian troops access to Indian simulators, firing ranges, logistics support.
  • Continuity: decade-long uninterrupted series despite political shifts, signaling strategic stability.

Operational Focus

  • Skill-sharing: room intervention, joint patrols, counter-sniper techniques exchanged.
  • Humanitarian element: includes disaster response drills reflecting Indian Ocean tsunami/cyclone risks.
  • Language integration: mixed platoons use English command to minimize friction, enhance quick coordination.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Partner forcesIndian Army & Maldives National Defence Force
Edition (2019)10th
Dates (2019)7–20 Oct 2019
Duration14 days
Venue (2019)Pune, Maharashtra
First held2009
Hosting patternAlternates India / Maldives each year
Meaning of “Ekuverin”Friends (Dhivehi language)
Core focusCI/CT operations, semi-urban, UN mandate
Previous edition9th, 2018, Maldives

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2023PYQ 1

The 16th edition of Indo-Nepal annual joint training exercise in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism operations was held in December 2022 at Nepal Army Battle School, Saljhandi. What is the name of this exercise?

CDS_GK, NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 2

Which one among the following Joint Military Exercises was NOT conducted between India and USA?

Misc

12.Inclusive Growth and Disability Rights India (Disability Rights)

PIB
Illustration for Inclusive Growth and Disability Rights India (Disability Rights)

What & Where

Inclusive growth & disability rights: participation of PwDs via accessible infrastructure, education, livelihoods, legal safeguards

Key processes: recognition of 21 disabilities, UDID digital certification, accessibility standards under Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan

Geography: India with 2.68 crore PwDs (2.21% population), aligned to UNCRPD global commitments

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • RPwD Act 2016 mandates non-discrimination, inclusive education, 4 % reservation, time-bound accessibility standards
  • National Trust Act 1999 supports autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual and multiple disabilities via community care
  • RCI Act 1992 regulates rehabilitation professional training and national registers

Schemes & Tech

  • UDID Project enables single nationwide certificate, benefit portability, real-time scheme integration
  • Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan audits public buildings, transport, ICT, app allows accessibility grievance uploads
  • ADIP Scheme funds modern aids, cochlear implants, post-operative therapy

Challenges

  • Accessibility gaps persist in buildings, transport, digital services despite campaign targets
  • High out-of-pocket spending on devices, therapy pushes families into poverty
  • Low scheme awareness among women, rural and marginalised caste PwDs limits uptake

Way Forward

  • Strengthen district outreach using multilingual IEC, convergence with PM-DAKSH, legal aid clinics
  • Enforce accessible building codes, transport standards, web guidelines across public and private sectors
  • Expand NAP-SDP skill courses, incentivise inclusive hiring through industry partnerships

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
PwD population (Census 2011)2.68 crore / 2.21 %
Disabilities recognised21 categories (RPwD Act 2016)
Job reservation quota4 % in Government posts
Key accessibility missionSugamya Bharat Abhiyan 2015
Digital ID coverageUDID nationwide e-certificates
Assistive device fundingADIP Scheme under DEPwD

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2011PYQ 1

India is home to lakhs of persons with disabilities. What are the benefits available to them under the law?

CDS_GK, GS1 2024PYQ 2

Consider the following statements regarding the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan:

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