Tuesday, 27 January 2026

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

The correct answer is (a) States Reorganization Act : Andhra Pradesh. This question appeared in GS1 2006.

Q: Which one of the following is the correct chronological order of the formation of the following as full States of the Indian Union?

The correct answer is (a) Sikkim – Arunachal Pradesh – Nagaland – Haryana. This question appeared in GS1 2007.

Q: The Reserve Bank of India regulates the commercial banks in matters of

The correct answer is (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4. This question appeared in GS1 2013.

Q: The main sources of credit to the farmers include

The correct answer is (a) the Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies, commercial banks, RRBs and private moneylenders. This question appeared in GS1 1999.

Q: Which one of the following statements is correct?

The correct answer is (a) The National Song Vande Mataram was composed by Bankimchandra Chatterji originally in Bengali. This question appeared in GS1 2003.

Q: In the following quotation, “WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens:

The correct answer is (a) twenty-sixth day of January, 1950. This question appeared in GS1 1997.

Q: Param Padam, which was in news recently, is

The correct answer is (a) A new Civilian Award instituted by the Government of India. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2004.

Q: Which one of the following statements is not correct in respect of the ‘Legion of Merit’ award?

The correct answer is (a) This award is conferred by the President of the United States of America. This question appeared in GS1, NDA_GAT 2021.

Q: Very strong air currents in the upper-air westerlies are known as:

The correct answer is (a) Jet streams. This question appeared in GEO_GS 2021.

Q: Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

The correct answer is (d) Maharashtra. This question appeared in GS1 2016.

16 topicsGS-1: 5GS-2: 3GS-3: 8

0/16 done

GS-2Polity

1.Tamil Nadu Rejects UGC Third-Language (Language Policy)

The HinduUGC circular · NEP 2020 · Two-language policy

What & Where

UGC circular: mandates teaching a third language in all higher educational institutions nationwide.

NEP 2020 process: three-language formula; two native Indian tongues + one other language.

Tamil Nadu geography: continues two-language system (Tamil, English) across its universities and colleges.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

UGC directive seen by TN as contradicting state’s 1968 law on mediums of instruction.
NEP three-language provision lacks mandatory status yet guided via UGC circular.
Assembly resolutions invoke federal rights under Articles 246 & 254 concurrence.

Centre–State Relations

Education in Concurrent List creating recurring jurisdictional tussles.
TN cites historical opposition to Hindi imposition since pre-Independence agitations.
Unanimous House motion 2022 urged Centre to drop Hindi MOI in central institutions.

Language Debate

Multilingualism promoted by Centre vs regional linguistic identity preservation.
Two-language model argued sufficient for global competence per TN.
Circular interpreted as step toward national Hindi standardisation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Circular issued by	University Grants Commission (UGC)
Trigger document	National Education Policy 2020
TN current formula	Two languages: Tamil + English
Year TN adopted policy	1968 (C. N. Annadurai)
Constitutional list	Education in Concurrent List
Assembly 2022 stance	Rejected Official Language panel push for Hindi MOI
Required languages under NEP	Minimum two Indian, third could be English/foreign
Alleged impact	Indirect Hindi imposition

GS-2PolityQuick Bite

2.Himachal Pradesh Statehood Evolution (State Reorganisation)

PIBStatehood 1971 · SRC 1956 · Part-C State

Illustration for Himachal Pradesh Statehood Evolution (State Reorganisation)

What & Where

Himachal Pradesh: Himalayan state, attained full statehood on 25 Jan 1971 as India’s 18th state.

Administrative path: Chief Commissioner’s Province (1948) → Part-C State (1950) → Union Territory (1956) → State (1971).

Western-Himalayan location; borders J&K, Ladakh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand; shares international frontier with China (Tibet).

Quick Facts for MCQs

State Formation Timeline

15 Apr 1948 formed as Chief Commissioner’s Province.
26 Jan 1950 redesignated Part-C State; category scrapped by SRC 1956.
25 Jan 1971 granted statehood after 1970 Act assent.

Geographical Context

Western Himalayas; includes high-altitude Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur valleys.
260 km international border with Tibet (China).
Touches J&K & Ladakh (N), Punjab (W), Haryana (SW), Uttarakhand (SE).

Commemorative Days

Himachal Pradesh Statehood Day celebrated annually on 25 January.
Uttar Pradesh Day observed 24 January, marking 1950 renaming; gazetted 2017.
26 January once signified Himachal’s Part-C status under Constitution.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Statehood Day	25 January
Became 18th state	25 Jan 1971
Enabling statute	State of Himachal Pradesh Act, 1970
Union Territory declared	1 Nov 1956
Punjab hill areas merged	1 Nov 1966
Part-C State period	26 Jan 1950 – 1 Nov 1956
Name meaning	“Lap of Snow” (Hima + Anchal)
Uttar Pradesh Day	24 Jan; celebrations start 2018

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2006PYQ 1

Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

GS1 2007PYQ 2

Which one of the following is the correct chronological order of the formation of the following as full States of the Indian Union?

GS-3Economy

3.Urban Co-operative Banks Licensing (Cooperative Banking)

The PrintRBI · UCBs · Banking Regulation Act

What & Where

Member-owned Urban Co-operative Banks provide deposit and credit services in Indian urban and semi-urban areas

Work on cooperative ethos; one-member-one-vote; focus on small borrowers, traders, salaried employees, MSMEs

Come under dual regulation: Banking Regulation Act 1949 (RBI) + state co-operative departments

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

RBI draft consults on reopening UCB licensing after 20-year gap
Amendment 2020 empowers RBI: board supersession, audits, CEO fit-and-proper
Entry norms aim deposit safety while preserving community ownership

Historical Evolution

Originates in late 19th-century cooperative movement inspired by Britain, Germany
Early 20th-century growth served urban groups ignored by joint-stock banks
1990s over-licensing caused failures; 2004 halt and tighter supervision followed

Economic Angle

Mobilises local deposits, lends at lower cost to traders, households, micro enterprises
Bridges informal–formal finance, boosting urban financial inclusion
Fresh licences expected to widen regulated coverage and raise depositor confidence

Governance & Technology

NUCFDC offers capital, IT platforms, training for UCB modernisation
RBI pushes core banking, cyber security, risk-based supervision across sector
Democratic structure retains equal voting irrespective of shareholding, ensuring community control

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
First urban co-op credit society	Kanchipuram, 1904
RBI Act coverage of UCBs	1966 amendment to BR Act 1949
Regulatory model	Dual control: RBI + State
Mass licensing phase	Early 1990s
Licensing freeze	2004 by RBI
Core reform law	Banking Regulation Amendment Act 2020
Umbrella body	NUCFDC set up 2024
New licence proposal	RBI draft, 2024

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2013PYQ 1

The Reserve Bank of India regulates the commercial banks in matters of

GS1 1999PYQ 2

The main sources of credit to the farmers include

GS-3Infrastructure

4.Wings India 2026 Aviation Expo (Civil Aviation Expo)

News on AirWings India · Begumpet Airport · Ministry of Civil Aviation

Illustration for Wings India 2026 Aviation Expo (Civil Aviation Expo)

What & Where

Wings India 2026, biennial civil-aviation exhibition-cum-airshow, Hyderabad (Begumpet Airport)

Combines air displays, static exhibits, B2B/B2G meets, policy dialogues across entire aviation value-chain

Focus on India’s emergence as global aviation hub, sustainability, innovation, manufacturing

Quick Facts for MCQs

History & Evolution

India Aviation 2008 debut, noted for first Airbus A380 landing in India
Event grew into Asia’s largest civil-aviation platform, reflecting surging passenger & order book
Hyderabad declared permanent host city by MoCA

Event Highlights

Air displays, CEO roundtables, investor sessions enrich networking ecosystem
Representation covers airlines, airports, OEMs, MROs, lessors, startups, training institutes, regulators
Converges investment, tech transfer, policy coordination under one roof

Strategic Significance

Showcases India as future third-largest aviation market per traffic forecasts
Supports flagship schemes: UDAN, greenfield airports rollout, MRO reforms, aerospace manufacturing push
Catalyses partnerships aiding connectivity, cargo, training, sustainability goals

Sustainability Drive

Dedicated sessions on Sustainable Aviation Fuel, carbon-neutral growth pathways
Exhibition space for green airport design, energy-efficient ground operations
Promotes digital air-navigation, electric/VTOL advanced air-mobility solutions

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Edition year	28–31 Jan 2026
Permanent venue	Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad
First launched as	India Aviation 2008
Rebranded year	2018 onwards as Wings India
Organiser	Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA)
Frequency	Biennial
2026 theme	Indian Aviation: Paving the Future – Design to Deployment, etc.
Aircraft expected	30 + static/flying
Planned meetings	500 + B2B & B2G
Core focus areas	SAF, green airports, digital navigation, advanced air mobility

GS-1History

5.Republic Day 2026 Highlights (Constitution Adoption)

PIB77th anniversary · Vande Mataram theme · Bhairav Battalion

What & Where

Republic Day (26 Jan) celebrates 1950 enforcement of Indian Constitution; national ceremony centred on Kartavya Path, New Delhi.

2026 parade theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”; sub-themes Swatantrata ka Mantra & Samriddhi ka Mantra.

Debut participation: Bhairav Assault Battalion (Indian Army) and European Union composite contingent.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Context

Resolution; 1929 Lahore INC session adopted Purna Swaraj, fixed 26 Jan for independence observance.
Transition; Dominion status ended when President replaced British Monarch on 26 Jan 1950.
Vande Mataram; sung at 1896 Calcutta INC session, rallying cry during 1905 Swadeshi movement.

Parade Display

Assam terracotta, Gujarat flag evolution, Kerala Water Metro, Punjab tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Tri-Services tableau “Operation Sindoor” exhibited Rafale-SCALP, BrahMos, S-400, HAROP systems.
Ministry of Culture showcased 150-year journey of Vande Mataram.

Honours & Decorations

Padma Vibhushan 5, including 1 posthumous; categories reward “distinguished service”.
President conferred Param Vishisht Seva, Uttam Yudh Seva, Ati Vishisht Seva, Yudh Seva, Bars.
Jeevan Raksha Padak trio: Sarvottam, Uttam, standard; open to all civilians, posthumous allowed.

National Song Legacy

Composition; Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Anandamath (1882), tuned by Rabindranath Tagore.
International echo; Bhikaji Cama’s 1907 Stuttgart flag bore “Vande Mataram”.
Legal; Constitution silent on National Song, Article 51A(a) mandates respect for Anthem & Flag.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Republic Day edition	77th (2026)
First Purna Swaraj Day	26 Jan 1930
Constitution adopted	26 Nov 1949
Constitution enforced	26 Jan 1950
Parade tableaux count	30 (States/UTs/Ministries)
Central theme origin year	1875 publication of Vande Mataram
Padma awards 2026	131 total; 5 PV, 13 PBh, 113 PS
Gallantry medals (Armed Forces)	70
Defence service decorations	301
Police-Fire-HG medals	982 personnel
National Song status	Declared 24 Jan 1950 by President Rajendra Prasad
42nd Amendment add-ons	Socialist, Secular to Preamble (1976)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2003PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is correct?

GS1 1997PYQ 2

In the following quotation, “WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens:

GS-1History

6.Granth Kutir Rashtrapati Bhavan (Literary Heritage)

The HinduGranth Kutir · Classical languages · Manuscripts

What & Where

Institution: Granth Kutir, dedicated book house inside Rashtrapati Bhavan, inaugurated Jan 2026 by President of India

Collection: 11 classical Indian languages; ≈2,300 printed books and ≈50 manuscripts on palm leaf, bark, cloth, paper

Locale: New Delhi landmark created through multi-level collaboration of Union ministries, IGNCA, states, academia

Quick Facts for MCQs

Cultural Significance

Heritage: Enhances public awareness of classical knowledge, promoting unity in diversity
Preservation: Reinforces efforts to safeguard indigenous scripts, languages, and manuscripts
Identity: Positions Rashtrapati Bhavan as a living museum of civilisational wisdom

Institutional Support

Governance: Backed by Ministry of Education and Ministry of Culture for funding and policy guidance
Expertise: IGNCA provides curation, cataloguing, conservation know-how
Stakeholders: States and universities contribute rare texts, facilitating pan-Indian ownership

Collection Details

Genres: Coverage ranges from Vedas to Constitution, bridging ancient to modern knowledge systems
Languages: Includes all 6th Schedule classical languages plus others recognised by scholars
Media: Manuscripts employ natural inks and handmade substrates aiding long-term conservation

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Location	Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi
Inaugurated by	President of India
Inauguration date	January 2026
Total printed books	~2,300
Manuscript count	~50
Classical languages	Tamil, Sanskrit, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, etc. (total 11)
Traditional materials	Palm leaf, paper, bark, cloth
Thematic span	Epics, philosophy, linguistics, history, governance, science, devotional, Constitution
Lead ministries	Education; Culture
Knowledge mission	Gyan Bharatam
Advisory body	Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts
Collaboration	Centre, states, universities, research bodies, cultural organisations, donors

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

7.Padma Awards 2026 List (Civilian Awards)

Indian ExpressPadma Vibhushan · Padma Bhushan · Padma Shri

What & Where

Civilian honours established 1954 for distinguished service; rank just below Bharat Ratna.

Three tiers – Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri; announced every 25 Jan, presented at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Selection by Padma Awards Committee chaired by Cabinet Secretary; cleared by PM, approved and conferred by President.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Evolution

1954 two-tier system; 1955 split Padma Vibhushan into three separate awards.
Prestige order fixed: Bharat Ratna > Padma Vibhushan > Padma Bhushan > Padma Shri.
Awards suspended twice: 1978-79 political decision, 1993-97 pending Supreme Court case.

Legal & Policy

Supreme Court 1996 Balaji Raghavan upheld awards as non-hereditary, hence Article 18 compliant.
2017 Indira Jaising ruling clarified ‘senior advocate’ tag not a forbidden title.
Awards classed as State recognitions, not personal titles; cannot be used as prefix/suffix.

Eligibility & Scope

Eligibility open to Indians, NRIs, PIOs, OCIs, foreigners irrespective of profession or gender.
Disciplines range from Art, Public Affairs, Science, Civil Service to Social Work.
2014 onward focus on “unsung heroes”, branding them “People’s Padma”.

Regulations & Suspension

No cash allowance; recipients get Sanad, medallion, replica.
Posthumous conferment permitted only for highly deserving cases; Dharmendra & Achuthanandan in 2026 examples.
Suspension episodes underscore debates on politicisation and constitutional validity.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Year instituted	1954
Total awardees 2026	131
2026 breakup	5 Vibhushan / 13 Bhushan / 113 Shri
Constitutional article	Article 18 (1)
Annual numerical cap	120 (excl. posthumous/foreign)
Gap for higher category	Minimum 5 years
Posthumous policy	Generally avoided; rare exceptions
Announcement date	Eve of Republic Day
Investiture month	March–April
Committee head	Cabinet Secretary

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1, NDA_GAT 2004PYQ 1

Param Padam, which was in news recently, is

GS1, NDA_GAT 2021PYQ 2

Which one of the following statements is not correct in respect of the ‘Legion of Merit’ award?

GS-1Environment

8.Polar Vortex Cold Waves (Atmospheric Dynamics)

Indian ExpressPolar vortex · Jet stream · Sudden stratospheric warming

Illustration for Polar Vortex Cold Waves (Atmospheric Dynamics)

What & Where

Definition – large, persistent low-pressure pool of frigid air circling Arctic & Antarctic poles

Dual forms – Tropospheric vortex (weather layer) and stronger wintertime Stratospheric vortex

Normal role – fast polar winds fence cold air near poles; disruptions spill chill to mid-latitudes

Quick Facts for MCQs

Atmospheric Dynamics

Jet stream – strong vortex keeps flow zonal; weakened vortex turns wavy, advects Arctic air south
SSW event – rapid stratospheric heating can split/weaken vortex, altering surface weather within days
Blocking highs – stationary anticyclones divert cold lobes toward mid-latitudes

Local Impacts

Cold waves – sharp temperature drops, wind-chill hazards, hypothermia risk in unprepared regions
Infrastructure – surging electricity demand, grid stress, transport shutdowns, flight cancellations
Health – frostbite, increased mortality during severe outbreaks

Global Impacts

Cross-continent – episodic cold surges recorded in North America, Europe, East Asia
Weather volatility – steeper alternation between extreme cold spells and warm anomalies
Economic losses – energy cost spikes, supply-chain delays during major vortex disruptions

Climate Change Angle

Arctic amplification – faster polar warming weakens temperature gradient, fostering vortex instability
Paradox notion – colder outbreaks occurring even as global mean temperatures rise
Research focus – assessing long-term shifts in atmospheric circulation patterns

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Primary location	Earth’s polar regions
Main forms	Tropospheric & Stratospheric
Peak strength season	Winter
Key containment force	High-speed polar jet stream
Major weakening trigger	Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW)
Climate modifier	Arctic amplification lowers pole-to-mid-latitude gradient
Jan 2026 impact	Heavy snow, sub-zero cold across ~17 US states

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS 2021PYQ 1

Very strong air currents in the upper-air westerlies are known as:

GS-3Environment

9.Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, Kerala (Wildlife Sanctuary)

The HinduWestern Ghats · Kannur district · Butterfly migration

Illustration for Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, Kerala (Wildlife Sanctuary)

What & Where

Protected area on western slopes of Western Ghats, Kannur, Kerala; now Kerala’s first dedicated butterfly sanctuary.

Formed 1984 under Wildlife (Protection) Act, earlier Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary; renamed 2025-26 for high lepidopteran richness.

Borders Brahmagiri (Karnataka) and Kottiyoor (Kerala) wildlife sanctuaries; drained by Cheenkanni River.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

State Board for Wildlife recommended renaming to highlight insect conservation priority.
Renaming strengthens legal focus on pollinator protection within existing WPA framework.
Sets precedent for species-specific sanctuaries in India.

Biodiversity Value

Hosts 81% of Kerala’s butterfly diversity; supports mass migration, mud-puddling events.
Habitat for multiple Western Ghats endemics besides butterflies, e.g., Slender Loris, rare amphibians.
Butterflies act as bio-indicators, aiding ecosystem health assessments.

Geography & Climate

Western Ghats location yields orographic rainfall, diverse microclimates.
Riverine network enhances larval host-plant availability across altitudinal gradients.
Contiguity with two sanctuaries enables landscape-level wildlife corridors.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Sanctuary type	Butterfly-focused protected area
State & district	Kerala, Kannur
Area	~55 sq km
Elevation zone	Evergreen & semi-evergreen forests
Annual rainfall	~4000–6000 mm
Temperature span	11 °C – 40 °C
Core river	Cheenkanni
Year constituted	1984
Original name	Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Renaming period	Jul 2025 – Jan 2026
Governing law	Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Butterfly species recorded	266 (of Kerala’s 327)
Adjacent sanctuaries	Brahmagiri, Kottiyoor
Notable fauna	Slender Loris (Sch-I)
UNESCO tag context	Part of Western Ghats hotspot

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

GS-3Environment

10.Urban Day Zero Water Crisis (Urban Water Crisis)

ITDay Zero · UN warning · Groundwater depletion

What & Where

Day Zero – point when city’s usable water falls below critical level; household taps cut, water only via rationed points

Term gained fame after Cape Town (South Africa) nearly hit Day Zero in 2018; now UN shorthand for systemic urban water collapse

UN flags several Indian & global cities at risk due to climate change, aquifer over-extraction, weak water governance

Quick Facts for MCQs

Triggers

Groundwater-over-extraction drains aquifers beyond recharge
Climate variability shortens wet seasons, intensifies drought bouts
Urban planning lapses allow demand to outpace supply infrastructure

Emergency Management

Rationed collection at public points with strict per-person limits
Household taps suspended; essential services continue receiving piped water
Authorities issue schedules, enforce usage caps, mobilise tanker fleets

Socio-Economic Impact

Public-health crises from unsafe drinking water, sanitation breakdown
Economic losses via power cuts, food-supply stress, workplace disruptions
Disproportionate burden on women, children, informal settlements; potential social unrest

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Core definition	Emergency shutdown of regular tap supply, shift to rationing
Iconic case city	Cape Town, South Africa
Near-collapse year	2018
UN usage	Describes systemic urban water collapse, not single drought
Priority users	Hospitals, sanitation services, firefighting units
Main stressors	Climate change + groundwater depletion + poor planning

GS-3Environment

11.Circular Economy in ELVs Report (End-of-Life Vehicles)

The PrintNITI Aayog · Vehicle scrappage · Pollution load

Illustration for Circular Economy in ELVs Report (End-of-Life Vehicles)

What & Where

ELVs: Vehicles unroadworthy, deregistered or declared waste; major urban scrap clusters in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu.

Report: NITI Aayog’s 2024 study “Enhancing Circular Economy of ELVs in India”.

Goal: Formal scrapping to recover metals, cut pollution, create circular auto-steel loop.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Key Trends

Doubling: ELV stock projected 2025-30, fastest among emerging economies.
Concentration: Older BS-I, II vehicles still 15 % fleet yet emit 60 % PM load.
Metal security: Auto scrap can meet ~20 % of India’s annual steel demand 2030.

Legal & Policy

V-FMP 2021 mandates fitness tests; failure leads to scrapping.
Motor Vehicles RVSF Rules 2021 govern CoD issuance, eco-norms.
EPR Rules 2025 fix OEM steel recovery, exclude production scrap loophole.

Infrastructure Gaps

Skew: Gujarat 56 ATS; NE states near-zero facilities.
High capex: RVSF setup ~₹25 crore; long breakeven due to low inflow.
Paperwork: Manual deregistration keeps ghost vehicles active on VAHAN.

Economic Angle

Price differential: GST evasion lets informal sector outbid by ~₹15k/vehicle.
Carbon credit potential: Formal scrapping could add ₹2k revenue per vehicle.
Under-utilisation: Sub-20 % throughput threatens investor interest.

Recommended Actions

One-ATS-per-district plus PSU-led RVSFs in thin markets.
Udyam Assist onboarding, legacy-liability amnesty for informal traders.
Aadhaar-linked digital transfer, CoD-based auto deregistration to choke leakages.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Expected ELVs 2025 vs 2030	23 mn → ~50 mn
Steel recoverable (2005-23 fleet)	~98 mn tonnes
Pollution gap BS-I vs BS-VI	Up to 8 times higher emissions
Operational ATS Sept 2025	156 against 500 target
Informal ELVs handled /yr	2-3 lakh
Formal RVSF ELVs FY 25	72,000
EPR steel target 2025-30	8 % of OEM sales weight
Central incentive pool (SASCI)	₹2,000 crore to states
Informal vs formal payout (Dzire)	₹38k vs ₹23k
Capacity utilisation typical RVSF	<20 %

GS-3SpeciesQuick Bite

12.Sikkim Sundari Alpine Plant (High-Altitude Flora)

Indian ExpressRheum nobile · Polygonaceae · Monocarpic

Illustration for Sikkim Sundari Alpine Plant (High-Altitude Flora)

What & Where

Rheum nobile (padamchal/Sikkim Sundari) – giant herb of Polygonaceae native to eastern Himalaya alpine zone.

Occurs 4,000–4,800 m on open slopes, rock ledges, glacial valleys; noted in North Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Myanmar.

Displays single, spectacular flowering event after long vegetative phase, then dies (monocarpic).

Quick Facts for MCQs

Habitat & Range

Alpine-zone specialist, tolerates intense UV, freezing winds.
Often seen near trekking routes to high passes in North Sikkim.

Morphological Adaptations

Bracts translucent, trap solar heat, protect inner flowers from frost and UV.
Tower-like inflorescence conspicuous against Himalayan landscape, aids pollinator attraction.

Life Cycle Pattern

Vegetative rosette stores resources up to three decades.
Single dramatic spike produces seeds, plant senesces immediately after.

Ethnobotany

Stems consumed locally for sour flavour; called chuka in cuisine.
Used in regional traditional medicine for unspecified therapeutic roles.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Family	Polygonaceae
Altitude band	4,000–4,800 m
Growth form	Giant herbaceous perennial
Life strategy	Monocarpic; blooms once in 7–30 yrs
Local names	Padamchal, Sikkim Sundari
Distinctive bracts	Tall, translucent, heat-trapping “glasshouse”
Key habitats	Alpine slopes, tundra-like areas, glacial valleys
Regional spread	North Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Myanmar
Edible part	Acidic stems (chuka)
Medicinal use	Tibetan & Himalayan traditional medicine

GS-3Science & Technology

13.ASC ARJUN Railway Humanoid Robot (Railway Robotics)

PIBASC ARJUN · Indian Railways · AI surveillance

Illustration for ASC ARJUN Railway Humanoid Robot (Railway Robotics)

What & Where

Definition: ASC ARJUN – AI-powered humanoid robot aiding Railway Protection Force in surveillance, crowd control, passenger help

Processes: Face-recognition, fire-smoke sensing, semi-autonomous patrol, multilingual announcements

Geography: First deployed at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, East Coast Railway zone, Andhra Pradesh

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Integration: AI engine analyses CCTV feed for intrusion, crowd surge, unattended objects
Navigation: Lidar-based obstacle avoidance enables platform roaming without dedicated tracks
Communication: LTE/Wi-Fi links push alerts and receive instructions from control room

Security Dimension

Surveillance: Continuous FRS scanning supplements manual CCTV watch, reducing blind spots
Response: Instant alerts shorten reaction time during emergencies or suspicious behaviour
Manpower optimisation: Routine patrols shifted to robot, freeing RPF staff for critical tasks

Passenger Services

Assistance: Multilingual audio guides share timetable, platform, safety advisories
Engagement: Human-like gestures improve approachability, encouraging reporting of issues
Accessibility: Height and movement designed for easy interaction with elderly and children

Indigenisation Push

Make-in-India: Fully designed, coded and assembled domestically using off-the-shelf Indian components
Cost-saving: Indigenous build avoids expensive imported robots, enabling scalable deployment
Innovation showcase: Positions Indian Railways as early adopter of home-grown service robotics

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Developer	In-house Indian Railways technical team, Visakhapatnam
Rail zone	East Coast Railway
Station of launch	Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)
Key users	Railway Protection Force (RPF)
Core tech	AI, Face Recognition System, obstacle avoidance
Patrol mode	Semi-autonomous, round-the-clock
Crowd alert	Real-time feed to RPF control room
Emergency sensor	Fire & smoke detection
Announcement languages	English, Hindi, Telugu
Gestures	Namaste to passengers, salute to RPF

GS-2International Relations

14.China Antarctic Activities Law (Antarctic Governance)

The HinduAntarctic Treaty · Environmental safeguards · National People's Congress

What & Where

Definition: China’s Antarctic Activities & Environmental Protection Law, comprehensive domestic statute for all China-linked actions in Antarctica

Geography: Antarctic Treaty area south of 60° S; jurisdiction extends to Chinese citizens, entities, expeditions via Chinese ports

Key process: Central permitting regime for science, tourism, shipping, fishing, backed by mandatory Environmental Impact Assessments

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Coverage: Applies to nationals, legal persons, foreign teams organised from or departing Chinese territory
Permit types: Distinct licences for research stations, vessels, aircraft, tourism operators, fishing outfits
Governance aim: Enhance Chinese voice in global Antarctic decision-making frameworks

Environmental Safeguards

Mandatory: Pre-activity EIAs graded by impact level, with public disclosure
Controls: Waste management standards, marine pollution prevention, protection of flora, fauna, heritage sites
Low-carbon push: Encourages renewable energy use and greenhouse-gas monitoring during expeditions

Compliance Tools

Sanctions: Fines, activity suspension, blacklisting for unauthorised or damaging operations
Financials: Compulsory insurance or financial guarantees to cover emergencies and remediation costs
Response: Operators must file contingency and search-and-rescue plans with Chinese authorities

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Proponent country	China
First reading scheduled	December 2025
Legislature involved	National People’s Congress Standing Committee
Treaty alignment	Antarctic Treaty System (ATS)
Core objective	Peaceful use & environmental protection
Military activity rule	Prohibited except logistical support
Mineral exploitation	Banned; only scientific research allowed

GS-3Editorial

15.Global Cybercrime Governance Crisis (Global Cyber Governance)

The HinduUN cybercrime convention · Polycentricism · AI-driven attacks

What & Where

Cybercrime: unlawful acts using computers/networks; now fastest-growing transnational threat space

UN Hanoi Convention 2024: first universal treaty to criminalise online offences & enable evidence-sharing

India: major victim nation (22.68 lakh incidents 2024) yet stayed outside Hanoi text citing data-sovereignty

Quick Facts for MCQs

Incident Trends

Surge: ransomware blends data exfiltration, multi-stage extortion, psychological pressure, even at SME scale
Identity: deepfakes & credential abuse bypass biometrics, making identity security primary battleground
AI-multipliers: automated phishing, malware creation accelerate attack volume & sophistication

Global Treaties

Budapest: regional, criticised non-inclusivity toward India, Russia, China
Hanoi: universal criminalisation + evidence channel but civil-society flags vague “serious crime” wording
G7 Hiroshima Process: drafting global generative-AI safety standards

Indian Measures

Roadmap: update National Cyber Security Policy; push Zero-Trust Network Access replacing legacy VPNs
Structure: plan district-level cyber units coordinated with CERT-In for grassroots response
Partnerships: leverage private AI-driven threat intel & forensics via PPP model

Challenges

Sovereignty: major powers resist ceding citizen-data control to multilateral bodies
Compliance gap: universal norms meet fragmented, prescriptive domestic rules (e.g., India’s 10 % watermark)
Financial loopholes: ghost SIMs & weak KYC fuel anonymous UPI-linked frauds

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
India cyber incidents	10.29 lakh (2022) → 22.68 lakh (2024)
Monthly fraud loss (2025 H1)	≈ ₹1,000 crore
GDP share at risk	0.7 % of GDP (annual projection)
Budapest Convention year	2001
Parties to Budapest	76
Hanoi Convention focus	ransomware, financial fraud, child-sexual abuse
24/7 cooperation network	mandated under Hanoi Convention
India objection point	insufficient control on resident data
Top unprepared threat (India)	third-party / supply-chain breaches (18 %)
Proposed watermark rule	10 % label on all AI-generated content

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2022PYQ 1

Recently, the term ‘two-pillar solution/two-pillar package’ often seen in the news, refers to

GS-1Social Issues

16.National Girl Child Day (Girl Child Empowerment)

PIB24 January · Beti Bachao Beti Padhao · Mission Shakti

What & Where

Observance: National Girl Child Day, 24 January, nationwide campaign on girls’ rights

Origin: Started 2008 by Ministry of Women & Child Development, New Delhi

Focus: End gender bias; ensure survival, education, empowerment of Indian girls

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Umbrella: Mission Shakti 2022 merges Sambal safety and Samarthya empowerment schemes
Law: Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006 underpins Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat 2024 campaign
Target: Campaign seeks 10 % child-marriage reduction by 2026, elimination by 2030

Education & STEM

Initiative: Samagra Shiksha ensures 97.5 % schools with girls’ toilets, GER girls secondary 80.2 %
Programme: Vigyan Jyoti mentors rural Class IX–XII girls in STEM across 300 districts
Impact: Secondary girls enrolment surged post-BBBP implementation

Health & Nutrition

Scheme: Scheme for Adolescent Girls provides 600 kcal, 18-20 g protein daily for 300 days
Coverage: 24.08 lakh girls tracked on Poshan Tracker by Dec 2024
Support: Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana converged under Mission Shakti for maternal benefits

Financial Inclusion

Savings: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana offers 7.6 % tax-free interest; 4.2 crore accounts opened
Protection: One Stop Centres provide integrated support for violence survivors under Sambal
Indicator: BBBP raised Sex Ratio at Birth to 930 in 2023-24

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Observance date	24 January
First celebrated	2008
Nodal ministry	MWCD
Flagship scheme	Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, 2015
SRB shift	~918 (2014-15) → 930 (2023-24)
Girls’ GER, secondary	80.2 % (2024-25)
Sukanya accounts	4.2 crore (Nov 2024)
Vigyan Jyoti coverage	80,000+ girls, 300 districts

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