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14 topicsGS-1: 3GS-2: 3GS-3: 8
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GS-3Economy

1.Stricter Crypto KYC Framework (Crypto Regulation)

Times of India
Illustration for Stricter Crypto KYC Framework (Crypto Regulation)

What & Where

Mandatory digital-KYC framework for users of Indian crypto exchanges

Enforced nationwide by Financial Intelligence Unit-India under Ministry of Finance

Operates within Prevention of Money Laundering Act ecosystem to curb illicit crypto flows

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • FIU-IND designated Virtual Asset Service Providers as Reporting Entities under PMLA March 2023
  • Non-compliance invites monetary penalty plus potential suspension of exchange operations
  • Framework supplements existing RBI/SEBI investor warnings without recognizing crypto as legal tender

Tech & Schemes

  • Selfie verification uses AI liveness tests; rejects static or morphed images
  • Geo-tag plus IP pairing helps flag VPN or cross-border onboarding attempts
  • Penny-drop confirms active bank linkage, blocking mule or dormant accounts

Security Dimension

  • Ban on mixers, tumblers cuts off anonymization channels used by ransomware groups
  • Traceable KYC enables quicker attachment of wallets/assets during terror-funding probes
  • Multi-factor checks deter account takeovers and SIM-swap frauds

Global Context

  • Aligns India with US FinCEN Travel Rule, EU MiCA traceability mandates
  • Supports G20 call for “same risk, same regulation” in crypto sector
  • Strengthens India’s case in upcoming FATF mutual evaluation 2025

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Issuing authorityFinancial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND)
Parent lawPrevention of Money Laundering Act 2002
Core verificationsLive selfie, geo-tag, PAN, penny-drop, OTP
Live selfie toolLiveness detection to foil deepfakes
Geo-tag capturesLocation + IP address at onboarding
Bank check method₹1 penny-drop into user account
KYC refreshPeriodic, risk-based; stricter for high-risk
Banned toolsMixers, tumblers, privacy tokens
Global alignmentFATF Recommendation 15 on VASPs
Main objectivesTraceability, accountability, anti-terror & anti-laundering
GS-3InfrastructureQuick Bite

2.Tourism Infrastructure Schemes Progress (Tourism Schemes)

PIB

What & Where

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (2023) – destination-centric, sustainable tourism mission across Indian states/UTs.

PRASHAD Scheme – central aid for integrated pilgrimage-site infrastructure nationwide.

National MICE Strategy – positions India’s 60+ tier-I/II cities as global conference hubs.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Flagship Schemes

  • Swadesh Darshan 2.0 merges infra, services, skills, policy for responsible tourism, echoes Vocal for Local, Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
  • CBDD uses competitive, outcome-based funding to upgrade entire destination value chain.
  • PRASHAD delivers central grants for holistic pilgrim-site amenities.

Economic Angle

  • Tourism’s forex ~₹3 lakh crore highlights services-export strength.
  • 3 billion domestic trips showcase demand driving allied sectors—transport, hospitality, crafts.

Medical Tourism

  • 0.64 million foreign patients leverage India’s affordable tertiary care & AYUSH wellness.
  • Unified e-Medical/e-Ayush visa regime simplifies entry for citizens of 171 nations.

MICE Sector

  • National roadmap + ‘Meet in India’ sub-brand targets global events market share.
  • Digital MICE Catalogue primes planners with venue data across all G20 host cities.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Int’l tourist arrivals (2024)20 million+
Domestic tourist visits (2024)~3 billion
Forex from tourism (2024)~₹3 lakh crore
Foreign medical tourists0.64 million
Countries eligible for e-Medical/e-Ayush visas171
Swadesh Darshan launch year2014-15
Swadesh Darshan 2.0 revamp year2023
Key SD 2.0 sub-schemesCBDD & PM-JUGA
CBDD focus themesSpiritual, Culture-Heritage, Vibrant Villages, Ecotourism/Amrit Dharohar
PRASHAD supportState/UT pilgrimage infra
PM-JUGA objectiveTribal livelihood via homestays & culture
Digital MICE Catalogue coverage60+ cities
Next Meet in India Conclave2025, Jaipur

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2025PYQ 1

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

GS1, NDA_GAT 1999PYQ 2

Tourism industry in India is quite small compared to many other countries in terms of India’s potential and size. Which one of the following statements is correct in this regard?

GS-3EconomyQuick Bite

3.Declining Petrodollar Influence (Global Oil Trade)

The Hindu

What & Where

Petrodollar system – global crude priced/settled in US dollars, born mid-1970s post-Bretton Woods

Venezuela – world’s largest proven oil reserves (~300 billion bbl, 17 % of total), output ≈1 mn bpd

US shale revolution – turned USA into largest oil producer and net exporter (since 2021)

Quick Facts for MCQs

Economic Angle

  • Surplus recycling era lowered US Treasury yields, globally suppressed interest rates
  • Producers like Saudi Arabia now divert oil revenue to domestic deficit funding, trimming US asset demand
  • Weaker dollar-oil price inverse relation signals reduced financial leverage of petrodollar system

Geopolitics & Security

  • US capture of President Maduro aims to reopen Venezuelan oil industry under US energy majors
  • Strategy seeks re-anchoring of future Venezuelan output within US economic orbit
  • Shifts may counter de-dollarisation by reviving USD-linked supply chains

Market Dynamics

  • Shale output surge structurally eroded traditional petrodollar flows towards US
  • Around one-fifth of global crude already priced in euro/yuan, marking tangible de-dollarisation
  • Decline in OPEC investment in US Treasuries mirrors changing revenue utilisation

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Venezuela oil reserves≈300 billion barrels (17 % world)
Venezuelan current output≈1 million barrels/day
Peak petrodollar recycling2002–2008
Petrodollar birthMid-1970s, after Bretton Woods collapse
US becomes net oil exporter2021
US rank in oil production1st globally
Non-dollar share in crude trade≈20 % (euro, yuan etc.)
Key inverse correlationDollar–oil price link now weakened

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2024PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

GS-1History

4.Rajasthan Kathputli Puppetry Tradition (Folk Puppetry)

The Hindu
Illustration for Rajasthan Kathputli Puppetry Tradition (Folk Puppetry)

What & Where

Traditional string-puppetry of Rajasthan; wooden dolls manoeuvred by cotton strings

Core belts: Jaipur’s Kathputli Nagar, plus Nagaur, Churu, Sikar districts

Stories on Rajput heroes, folklore, social satire; accompanied by folk percussion & harmonium

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Roots

  • Antiquity: Inscriptional & oral evidence trace craft to early 11th century Rajput courts
  • Patronage: Once sustained by royal jagir grants, travelling troupes entertained fairs & pilgrim routes
  • Decline phase: Loss of feudal support post-Independence, now survives via tourism & festivals

Artistic Elements

  • Construction: Single wooden torso; detachable head; limbs tied with five strings for lifelike sway
  • Narrative: Balladeer-puppeteer voices all roles while second artist handles percussion
  • Themes: Amar Singh Rathore, Pabuji, social evils, government schemes for awareness

National Puppetry Map

  • Shadow focus: Tolu Bommalata (AP/TN), Ravanachhaya (Odisha), Togalu Gombeyata (Karnataka)
  • Rod variants: Danger Putul (WB), Kathi Kundhei (Odisha), Salaki Gombeyata (Karnataka)
  • Glove types: Pavakathakali (Kerala), Gulabo-Sitabo (UP), Sakhi Kundhei (Odisha)

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Origin era> 1,000 years
Performing castesBhat & Nat communities
Puppet materialCarved mango/teak wood, cotton cloth, metal wire
Facial styleBold eyes, exaggerated moustache, arched brows
Costume cueBright Rajasthani ghagra-odhni & angarkha
Music supportDholak, harmonium, cymbals
Largest current hubKathputli Nagar, Jaipur (~250 families)
Puppetry categoryPure string (no rods/shadows)
GS-1Mapping

5.Bargi Dam on Narmada River (River Dam)

Down to Earth
Illustration for Bargi Dam on Narmada River (River Dam)

What & Where

Multipurpose concrete dam on Narmada River, Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh

First completed structure under Narmada Valley Development Project’s 30-major-dam chain

Functions: irrigation, drinking supply, 90 MW hydropower, flood moderation, tourism

Quick Facts for MCQs

Safety & Regulation

  • NDSA show-cause notice cites “serious safety lapses” demanding NVDA compliance details
  • Spillway gate reliability central to flood discharge mandate under Dam Safety Act, 2021

Irrigation & Agriculture

  • Bargi Diversion canals irrigate drought-prone tracts, lifting regional crop intensity
  • Rani Avantibai system stores, distributes reservoir water for large-scale command areas

Socio-Economic Angle

  • Reservoir supports boating, angling, eco-tourism; boosts local employment and revenue
  • Drinking water supplied to Jabalpur city and adjoining towns, anchoring urban growth

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
RiverNarmada
State / DistrictMadhya Pradesh / Jabalpur
Completion tag1st major dam finished in Narmada Valley plan
Spillway gates21 radial gates
Main reservoir-linked schemesBargi Diversion Project; Rani Avantibai Lodhi Sagar
Key usesIrrigation, potable water, hydropower, fisheries, recreation
Oversight body issuing noticeNational Dam Safety Authority (NDSA)
Operating agencyNarmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA)
GS-3Species

6.Parasitic Weed Orobanche aegyptiaca (Parasitic Weed)

Indian Express
Illustration for Parasitic Weed Orobanche aegyptiaca (Parasitic Weed)

What & Where

Parasitic-weed; Orobanche aegyptiaca is an obligate root parasite affecting mustard, other oilseed and vegetable crops

Process; seeds germinate after first irrigation, attach underground, siphon host water, carbon and nutrients

Geography; intense infestations across Rajasthan and Haryana mustard belt, north-western India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Biology & Lifecycle

  • Obligate-parasite; cannot photosynthesise, depends entirely on host xylem-phloem
  • Stealth-phase; subterranean attachment delays visible symptoms, hindering timely chemical control
  • Soil-bank; persistent micro-seeds enable recurring outbreaks despite crop rotation

Spread Vectors

  • Wind-drift; minute seeds easily carried to adjoining farms
  • Water-flow; canal, flood or sprinkler runoff disseminates seeds field-to-field
  • Machinery-soil; harvesters, tractors and nursery soil transport infested earth

Economic Angle

  • Yield-hit; severe attack can cause 30–100 % mustard loss, crippling farmer income
  • Crop-abandonment; growers shift away from mustard, eroding crop diversity in northwest plains
  • Import-risk; lower domestic oilseed output heightens dependence on costly edible-oil imports

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
TypeObligate root-parasitic weed
Local nameMargoja
Native regionMediterranean–West Asia
Hotspot statesRajasthan, Haryana
Seed viability≤20 years in soil
Flowers per plant40–45
Seeds per flower4,000–5,000
Germination cueMoist soil post first irrigation
Dispersal agentsWind, irrigation water, tools, soil
Domestic mustard oil share>4 million tonnes
GS-3S&T

7.AyulSAT In-Orbit Refuelling Demonstration (In-orbit Refuelling)

TW
Illustration for AyulSAT In-Orbit Refuelling Demonstration (In-orbit Refuelling)

What & Where

AyulSAT: 25-kg tanker-satellite to demo in-orbit fuel, power & data transfer via docking.

Process: internal propellant shift now; spacecraft-to-spacecraft refuelling using SIDRP planned by 2026.

Geography: Built by OrbitAid (Chennai); launched on ISRO PSLV-C62 into low-Earth orbit.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Technology Specs

  • Internal tank-to-tank refuelling tests micro-gravity fluid dynamics.
  • SIDRP provides standardized mechanical, fluidic & electrical connections.
  • RPOD-ready design enables Rendezvous, Proximity Operations & Docking with later chaser craft.

Debris Mitigation

  • Life-extension via refuelling delays satellite disposal, cutting orbital junk.
  • Aligns with India’s Debris-Free Space Mission 2030 objective.

Commercial Outlook

  • Demonstration seeds service market for LEO/GEO life-extension, inspection & repair.
  • First Indian private payload aimed at creating on-orbit space economy infrastructure.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
DeveloperOrbitAid Aerospace, Chennai
Satellite mass25 kg
Launch vehiclePSLV-C62 (ISRO)
Primary aimProve on-orbit propellant transfer & docking readiness
Interface usedSIDRP – Standard Interface for Docking & Refuelling Port
Transfer capabilitiesFuel, electrical power, data
Mission noveltyIndia’s first commercial docking-refuel interface in space
Future chaser rendezvousTargeted by end-2026
Debris policy linkSupports Debris-Free Space Mission 2030
Orbit regimeLow-Earth Orbit
GS-3S&T

8.Magnetic Nanorobots for Cancer Therapy (Medical Nanorobots)

Indian Express

What & Where

Definition: Externally actuated magnetic nanorobots—≤100 nm silica-iron helices—steered by rotating magnetic fields to drill through tissues

Key process: Corkscrew propulsion mimicking bacterial flagella enables deep‐tumour drug payload delivery without on-board power

Geography: Invented at Centre for Nano Science & Engineering, IISc Bengaluru; awarded NYAS 2025 & Tata Sons Transformation Prize

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

  • Design: Biocompatible silica scaffold, iron coating, drug-laden surface enables therapy-cum-imaging platform
  • Simulation: Molecular modelling guides atom-level tailoring for strength, quantum effects, catalytic reactivity
  • Motion control: Field strength/frequency tweaks alter speed, direction, penetration depth inside vasculature

Health Applications

  • Oncology: Precise payload, reduced systemic toxicity, potential hyperthermia & image-guided surgery combo
  • Diagnostics: Quantum dots, gold nanoparticles boost MRI, CT, fluorescence resolution for early detection
  • Regeneration: Nanofibrous scaffolds cue stem-cell growth for bone, cartilage, cardiac repairs

Challenges & Governance

  • Nanotoxicity: Unknown bio-accumulation, long persistence, ecosystem entry demand mandatory chronic studies
  • Regulation: CDSCO presently gap-ridden; lacks universal nomenclature, characterization, safety protocols
  • Ethics: Implantable nanosensors raise privacy, autonomy issues; risk of socio-economic nano-divide

Sustainability Steps

  • R&D: Green nanotechnology—lipid, natural-polymer biodegradable designs with safety-by-design principle
  • Translation: Bridge “Valley of Death” via PPP, scalable manufacturing, interdisciplinary clinician-engineer teams
  • Environment: Enforce nanoparticle life-cycle EIAs, disposal & recycling norms plus ambient monitoring programs

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Core size range≤ 100 nanometres
Magnetic materialIron oxide coating
Propulsion sourceExternally applied rotating magnetic field
Motion styleCorkscrew / helical drilling
Prime therapeutic useTargeted intratumoural drug delivery
Extra medical usePain-free root-canal bacteria eradication
Key propertySuperparamagnetism—single magnetic domain behaviour
Award year2025
Awarding bodiesNew York Academy of Sciences; Tata Sons
Developer instituteIISc Bengaluru

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2015PYQ 1

With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?

GS1 2010PYQ 2

With reference to the treatment of cancerous tumours, a tool called cyberknife has been making the news. In this context, which one of the following statements is not correct?

GS-2Misc

9.Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Celebration (Diaspora Engagement)

PIB

What & Where

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: biennial 9 Jan celebration of Gandhi’s 1915 home-coming; 18th edition in Odisha, 8-10 Jan 2025

Indian diaspora classes: Non-Resident Indian (NRI) and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI); PIO category merged into OCI in 2015

Major hubs: USA 5.4 mn, UAE 3.57 mn, Saudi Arabia 2.46 mn overseas Indians

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • Scheme: Indian Community Welfare Fund offers emergency legal, medical, repatriation aid for distressed migrants
  • Exclusion: OCI cards not issued to nationals of Pakistan, Bangladesh, safeguarding security interests
  • Proposal: Government plans unified Girmitiya descendant database for targeted outreach and commemorations

Economic Angle

  • Remittance: Overseas Indians sustain families and forex reserves through steady money transfers
  • Investment: Diaspora funds startups, infrastructure, boosting inclusive regional development
  • Trade: Community networks open new markets, diversify exports, strengthen supply chains

Tech & Schemes

  • Launch: Pravasi Bharatiya Express tourist train under Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana inaugurated 2025
  • Pension: NPS for NRIs allows regulated retirement savings in rupees
  • Digital: UPI-Singapore linkage pilots low-cost cross-border remittances for workers

Social Concerns

  • Bias: Rising Hinduphobia, Sikh stereotyping in USA, Europe threaten community safety
  • Custody: Norway, Germany child-welfare disputes highlight cultural misunderstandings with Indian parents
  • Identity: Second-generation migrants juggle assimilation pressures with language and tradition preservation

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Establishment year2003
Observance date9 January
2025 host stateOdisha
2025 themeDiaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat
Top honourPravasi Bharatiya Samman Award
Tourist trainPravasi Bharatiya Express
Largest diaspora countryUSA – 5.4 million

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2006PYQ 1

What is IndoNext which was launched in January, 2005?

GS-3Security

10.Indian Army Bhairav Battalion (Hybrid Warfare)

IT
Illustration for Indian Army Bhairav Battalion (Hybrid Warfare)

What & Where

Definition – Bhairav Battalion: new-gen, high-speed offensive combat unit for hybrid warfare, rapid raids, drone ops.

Command – Placed under Corps/Division HQ; ~200–250 soldiers bridge gap between Para SF & infantry.

Geography – Forward-deployed near Rajasthan, Jammu, Ladakh, Northeast borders; first public show at Jaipur Army Day Parade.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

  • Drone warfare – Operators trained for reconnaissance, loiter munitions, electronic disruption.
  • Cyber-electronic support – Units equipped for jamming, data-link hacking during border skirmishes.
  • Unmanned ecosystem – Battalion exploits Army’s expanding drone pilot network for swarm tactics.

Security Dimension

  • Fight-tonight readiness – Positioned forward for instant reaction to grey-zone threats or incursions.
  • Rapid raids – High mobility allows cross-border spoiling attacks without large force mobilisation.
  • Offensive posture – Enhances deterrence alongside existing Para SF, boosting tactical options.

Organisational Reform

  • Force modernisation – Part of shift to compact, tech-heavy units under IBG concept.
  • Complementary units – Works with Rudra Brigades (strike) and other unmanned detachments.
  • Talent utilisation – Selects highly trained soldiers, enriching mid-tier special capability.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Typical strength200–250 personnel
Core roleHybrid warfare, drone-enabled quick strikes
Command levelCorps & Division formations
Border focusRajasthan, Jammu, Ladakh, Northeast
Tech integrationLinked to 1 lakh+ Army drone operators
Gap addressedBetween Para SF & regular infantry
Parade debutArmy Day, Jaipur
Restructuring peersRudra Brigades, unmanned warfare units

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CAPF_GAI 2023PYQ 1

What are Airawat, Param Siddhi, Pratyus and Mihir?

GS-3Security

11.Operation Hawkeye Airstrikes in Syria (US Counterterrorism)

Hindustan Times
Illustration for Operation Hawkeye Airstrikes in Syria (US Counterterrorism)

What & Where

Operation Hawkeye; US-led counter-terror air & precision-strike campaign against ISIS across Syrian territory.

Theatre; Syrian airspace/ground targets stretching Palmyra‐Deir-ez-Zor axis under US CENTCOM control.

Syria; West-Asian state on east Mediterranean rim, bordered by Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

  • Precision-guided munitions; mix of F-15E, MQ-9 Reaper, cruise missiles against ammo depots, training camps.
  • Message; direct retaliation doctrine reaffirmed for any fatalities inflicted on US/coalition forces.
  • Outcome claimed; “significant” ISIS command-and-control degradation per CENTCOM brief.

Geography Highlight

  • Land-bridge location connects Levant, Mesopotamia, Arabian hinterland—vital for militant transit routes.
  • Al-Ansariyah Mountains induce coastal rainfall gradient; interior desert offers cover for insurgent hideouts.
  • Euphrates corridor remains agricultural spine and main target cluster for anti-ISIS sorties.

Governance & Politics

  • Post-war interim government seeking legitimacy; limited control outside Damascus and key west-coast cities.
  • Foreign troop presence includes US, Russian, Iranian militias complicating sovereignty narratives.

International Relations

  • Operation underscores continuing US kinetic involvement despite official troop drawdown rhetoric.
  • Signals to regional allies (Israel, Jordan) of sustained US commitment to counter-ISIS stability.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Operation startDec 2025
Trigger eventISIS ambush near Palmyra killing 2 US soldiers + 1 interpreter
US President ordering strikesDonald Trump
Lead commandUS Central Command (CENTCOM)
Key objectiveDegrade ISIS networks, deter attacks on US personnel
Current Syrian headInterim President Ahmed al-Sharaa
Syrian capitalDamascus
Civil war duration2011 – 2024 (13 yrs)
Coastline water bodyMediterranean Sea
Principal riversEuphrates, Orontes
Mountain barrier westAl-Ansariyah Range
Desert zoneSyrian Desert covers interior
GS-2Scheme

12.National Youth Day and Initiatives (Youth Empowerment)

PIB

What & Where

National Youth Day: 12 January, marks Swami Vivekananda’s 1863 birth, celebrated pan-India.

Core purpose: showcase youth-centric schemes; fuse character, service, nation-building ideals.

Demographic canvas: 65 % Indians <35 yrs; pivotal for Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

  • MY Bharat uses AI for career services, mentors, Fit India metrics.
  • PM-SETU adopts government-owned, industry-managed hub-and-spoke ITI model.
  • PMKVY 4.0, PM-NAPS, JSS converge under Skill India Mission for lifelong skilling.

Social & Health

  • Fit India pushes Sundays-on-Cycle, school certifications, app-based tracking.
  • RKSK tackles nutrition, SRH, mental health, substance misuse via community prevention.
  • Kashi Declaration stresses Nasha-Mukt, value-based leadership among youth.

Employment & Entrepreneurship

  • PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana provides hiring incentives to firms and fresh recruits.
  • Startup India + MUDRA boost first-gen, women, MSME entrepreneurs with recognition & loans.
  • VBYLD engages ~3,000 young leaders for policy ideation.

Defence & Discipline

  • Agnipath: four-year stint builds discipline, technical skills; offers structured post-service resettlement.
  • Alumni gain priority in CAPF, state police, skilled jobs.

Important Personalities

  • Vivekananda introduced global audiences to Vedanta & Yoga; spoke at 1893 Chicago Parliament.
  • Founded Ramakrishna Mission 1897; Belur Math 1899.
  • Authored Raja-, Karma-, Jnana-, Bhakti-Yoga pathways to moksha.

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Observation date12 January (since 1985)
Youth share in population≈ 65 % below 35 yrs
Digital youth hubMY Bharat platform
NSS outreach (digital)50.42 lakh via MY Bharat & MyGov
Agnipath entry age17.5 – 21 yrs
PM-SETU targetUpgrade 1,000 ITIs
Jobs aimed under PM VBRY3.5 crore in 2 yrs
Recognised Start-ups1.97 lakh +
MUDRA loan ceiling₹20 lakh, collateral-free
Adolescent health schemeRKSK (nutrition to NCDs)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, NDA_GAT 2024PYQ 1

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

GEO_GS, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 2

The objective of National Youth Parliament Festival is to hear the voice of youth between:

GS-2Scheme

13.Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign (Child Marriage)

The Hindu

What & Where

Definition : Child marriage = union where girl < 18 yrs or boy < 21 yrs under PCMA 2006

Campaign : Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (2024) aims 10 % cut by 2026, zero by 2030, pan-India outreach

Hotspots : Highest prevalence West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura; lowest Lakshadweep, J-K, Ladakh, HP, Goa, Nagaland

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

  • Provision : Child marriage cognisable, non-bailable; annulment, injunctions via CMPOs
  • Portal : BVMB online dashboard enables real-time reporting, district-wise tracking
  • Judgment : SC banned child betrothal, ordered stronger state mechanisms 2024

Incentives & Schemes

  • Savings : Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana builds education corpus, eases dowry pressure
  • Conditional cash : Kanyashree (WB), Kalyana Lakshmi (TS) pay only if bride 18 +
  • Education push : Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Samagra Shiksha improve secondary retention

Challenges & Responses

  • Norms : Patriarchy, honour, caste customs sustain early unions despite law
  • Poverty : Families view marriage as cost-saving; DAY-NRLM and NSAP offer income buffers
  • Enforcement gap : Low convictions; BVMB deploys full-time CMPOs, 100-day awareness blitz

Key Data Points

FeatureData-Point
Launch ministryWomen & Child Development
Legal backbonePCMA 2006 + SC 2024 judgment
SDG linkageTarget 5.3 end child marriage by 2030
Global child brides 2023640 million (UNICEF)
India share~ ⅓ of global total
NFHS-5 prevalence23.3 % (girls 20-24 married <18)
Decline since 2005-0647.4 % → 23.3 %
Age proposal under debateRaise female minimum to 21 yrs
First child-marriage-free districtBalod, Chhattisgarh
HelplineChildline 1098, 24 × 7

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