Saturday, 31 January 2026

UPSC Current Affairs

Q: Which one of the following amendments to the Constitution of India has introduced reservations in education and in public employment for people from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) of society?

The correct answer is (c) The Constitution (122nd Amendment) Act. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2023.

Q: Which one of the following statements is correct?

The correct answer is (a) Under Article 21A of the Constitution of India, the State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children up to the age of eleven years.. This question appeared in CDS_GK 2022.

Q: Consider the following statements regarding 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam':

The correct answer is (c) 2 and 3 only. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2024.

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2 and 3. This question appeared in GEO_GS, GS1 2024.

Q: Consider the following statements:

The correct answer is (a) 1 and 2 only. This question appeared in GS1 2020.

Q: The new Gross Domestic Product (GDP) series released by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in February 1999 is with reference to base price of

The correct answer is (a) 1991-92. This question appeared in GS1 2000.

Q: India's installed solar capacity in 2025 is close to

The correct answer is (a) 70 GW. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: What is the name of the initiative launched by India and Denmark in November 2025 to enhance bilateral ties?

The correct answer is (a) Indo-Danish Economic Forum. This question appeared in ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026.

Q: Which one of the following events was characterised by Montague as ‘Preventive Murder’?

The correct answer is (a) Killing of INA activists. This question appeared in GS1 1998.

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

The correct answer is (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only. This question appeared in GS1 2022.

15 topicsGS-1: 2GS-2: 6GS-3: 7

0/15 done

GS-2Polity

1.SC Stays UGC Equity Rules 2026 (Higher Education Regulation)

NDTVSupreme Court · UGC Regulations 2026 · Equal Opportunity Centre

What & Where

UGC Equity Regulations 2026: proposed binding anti-discrimination code for all Indian higher-education institutions.

Supreme Court, New Delhi, stayed 2026 rules; revived advisory UGC Guidelines 2012.

Coverage: universities, colleges, deemed-to-be universities across India.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Stay: SupremeCourt invoked inherent powers, kept 2012 norms operative.
Vagueness: undefined segregation, mentorship groups flagged for arbitrariness.
Redraft: Court urged expert panel for inclusive, precise language.

Compliance Infrastructure

EqualOpportunityCentre: dedicated cell with EquityAmbassador and EquitySquad.
EquityHelpline: compulsory 24×7 phone plus online portal.
Timeline: 24-hour initial reply, 15-day probe closure mandated.

Data Trends

UGCStats2026: 118.4 % surge in caste-discrimination complaints since 2019.
IITDelhiSuicides: Court linked Dalit deaths to sustained institutional neglect.
ScholarshipBacklog: four-month clearance deadline to reduce financial stress.

Social Concerns

Exclusion: General-category students lack explicit protection.
MisuseFear: no deterrent against false or malicious complaints.
Polarisation: CJI warned separate facilities may entrench caste identities.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Distinct groups named	SC, ST, OBC
Mandatory response time	24 hours
Investigation deadline	15 days
5-year rise in caste-bias cases	118.4 % (UGC 2026)
Suicide pattern flagged	IIT Delhi, Dalit students
Scholarship backlog limit	4 months (SC order 2026)
Non-compliance penalty	De-recognition + grant loss
Personal accountability	Head of Institution

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2023PYQ 1

Which one of the following amendments to the Constitution of India has introduced reservations in education and in public employment for people from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) of society?

GS-2Polity

2.SC Upholds Menstrual Health Right (Fundamental Rights Expansion)

LLArticle 21 · Menstrual hygiene · Dr. Jaya Thakur case

Illustration for SC Upholds Menstrual Health Right (Fundamental Rights Expansion)

What & Where

Definition Right to Menstrual Health: SC declares menstrual hygiene management part of Article 21 “Right to Life”

Coverage All schools India; free ASTM D-6954 biodegradable pads, gender-segregated disabled-friendly toilets, MHM corners

Geography Applies nationwide; enforced by District Education Officers with possible de-recognition of non-compliant private schools

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Expansion Article 21 interpreted to include dignity, privacy during menstruation
Obligation Facilities termed constitutional duty not welfare freebie
Enforcement Annual DEO report uploaded to real-time portal proposed

Education Impact

Absenteeism Rural girls previously missed 2-5 days monthly
Equality Menstrual poverty recognised as gender-specific learning barrier
Retention Pads and privacy aim to curb girl drop-outs in secondary school

Health Angle

Infection Poor MHM linked to higher RTIs and bacterial vaginosis 2024-25 studies
Dignity Provision prevents humiliation from stains, odour, teasing
Awareness Male teachers, students to receive sensitivity training

Implementation Challenges

Maintenance Many existing toilets lack water, locks, cleaning budgets
Supply chain Remote tribal schools face pad stock-outs under past schemes
Disposal Clogged drains common without incinerators, discreet bins

Environmental Impact

Waste Biodegradable pad mandate aligns with Solid Waste Management Rules
Local production SHGs encouraged to cut cost, reduce transport emissions

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Case name	Dr. Jaya Thakur vs Union of India
Core Articles	14, 21, 21A of Constitution
School classes	VI to XII girls
Pad standard	ASTM D-6954 oxo-biodegradable
Inspection body	District Education Officer
Non-compliance penalty	Private school de-recognition
Compliance deadline	3 months from judgment
Toilet mandate	Functional, gender-segregated, water & soap
Additional aid	Spare uniform, innerwear, disposal bags
Feedback tool	Anonymous student survey during annual audit

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is correct?

GS-2Polity

3.NCW 34th Foundation Day Observed (Statutory Women's Body)

PIBNCW Act 1990 · Statutory body · Swasthya hi Sashaktikaran

What & Where

National Commission for Women (NCW): apex statutory watchdog for women’s rights, set up 31 Jan 1992 under NCW Act 1990.

Quasi-judicial; enjoys civil-court powers but only recommendatory enforcement.

HQ: New Delhi; jurisdiction—entire Republic of India.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Background & Evolution

CSWI (1974) + National Perspective Plan 1988-2000 urged dedicated women’s body.
Act passed 1990; Commission operational from 1992.

Structure & Tenure

Chairperson: must show commitment to women’s cause; Member-Sec: sociologist/manager or senior civil servant.
Age ceiling ensures leadership rotation and fresh expertise.

Functions & Powers

Review constitutional/legal safeguards; recommend amendments to plug lacunae.
Submit annual report to Centre; can inspect jails, remand homes, women’s institutions.
Suo-motu inquiries into deprivation, non-implementation, policy non-compliance.

Programmes & Capacity Building

“She is a Changemaker” trains women for electoral, leadership roles.
LBSNAA tie-up: sensitises Protection Officers & police on Domestic Violence Act 2005.
Cyber-safety studies, campaigns against online misogyny enhance digital resilience.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Parent law	National Commission for Women Act 1990
Foundation Day	31 Jan 1992 (34th in 2026)
Nominating authority	Central Government
Composition	1 Chair + 5 Members + Member-Secretary
Mandatory social quota	≥ 1 SC & 1 ST member
Tenure	3 yrs or 65 yrs age, whichever earlier
Current theme (2026)	“Swasthya hi Sashaktikaran”
Powers	Summon, examine on oath, call documents—civil-court status
Key grievance tools	24×7 helpline, WhatsApp line, Mahila Jan Sunwai
Criticism tag	“Toothless tiger” (advisory only)

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GEO_GS, GS1 2024PYQ 1

Consider the following statements regarding 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam':

GEO_GS, GS1 2024PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

GS-3Economy

4.UAE Approves USD-Backed Stablecoin (Fintech Regulation)

News on AirUAE Central Bank · USDU stablecoin · Payment Token Services

Illustration for UAE Approves USD-Backed Stablecoin (Fintech Regulation)

What & Where

Stablecoin USDU – blockchain token pegged 1:1 to US dollar, cleared by UAE Central Bank.

Issuer Universal Digital regulated inside Abu Dhabi Global Market under Payment Token Services Regulation.

UAE: seven-emirate federation on Persian Gulf & Gulf of Oman abutting strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Regulation mandates licensing, audited reserves, consumer safeguards for payment tokens.
USDU first foreign payment-token issuer registered with UAE Central Bank.
Measure bolsters UAE ambition to be rule-compliant digital-asset hub.

Tech & Schemes

Blockchain settlement offers near-instant, low-fee, transparent transfers versus correspondent banking.
Token integrable with fintech apps, DeFi, point-of-sale systems.
Reserves kept in segregated accounts; on-chain supply mirrors off-chain dollars.

Geographical Setting

UAE borders Strait of Hormuz, conduit for ~20 % global seaborne oil.
Landscape: arid desert, Rub’ al Khali dunes west, Hajar Mountains NE ~2 000 m.
No perennial rivers; seasonal wadis dominate drainage.

Economic Angle

Diversification push into fintech, AI, blockchain reduces oil dependency.
Stablecoin bridges traditional finance with digital economy, luring global capital.
Faster, cheaper remittances aid ~80 % expatriate workforce.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Stablecoin name	USDU
Peg ratio	1 USDU = 1 USD
Reserve backing	100 % U.S. dollar holdings
Issuer firm	Universal Digital
Issuer regulator	Abu Dhabi Global Market
Approving authority	Central Bank of UAE
Legal framework	Payment Token Services Regulation
Primary uses	Cross-border pay, trade settlement, remittances
UAE capital	Abu Dhabi
Gulf of Oman emirate	Fujairah

GS-3Economy

5.New CPI Series 2023-24 (Inflation Measurement)

Indian ExpressCPI base year · 2011-12 to 2023-24 · MoSPI

Illustration for New CPI Series 2023-24 (Inflation Measurement)

What & Where

Definition: New CPI (Base 2023-24) measures all-India retail inflation, replacing 2011-12 series

Coverage: 1,465 rural + 1,395 urban markets across 434 towns, plus 12 e-commerce portals

Role: Serves as headline inflation anchor for RBI’s inflation-targeting regime

Quick Facts for MCQs

Methodology Changes

Sampling: Inclusion of e-commerce prices for airfares, OTT, telecom
Rent index: Now covers rural; excludes employer-provided housing
Update cycle: Base-year revision aligns with global five-year norm

Weight Reallocation

Food: Drop reflects Engel’s Law and rising income levels
Services: Transport, health, education, communication gain greater share
Structural: Signals shift toward housing- and services-led consumption patterns

Policy Implications

Volatility: Lower food weight dampens weather-induced CPI swings
Monetary: Cleaner signal aids RBI rate-setting accuracy
Credibility: Modern basket enhances domestic and global confidence in inflation data

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Launching ministry	MoSPI
Core data source	HCES 2023-24
New base year	2023-24
Items in basket	358 (up from 299)
Food & Beverages weight	~36.5 % (earlier ~46 %)
Housing weight	17.66 % (earlier 10 %)
Rural markets covered	1,465
Urban markets covered	1,395
Online markets added	12 large-city portals
CPI segments	Rural, Urban, Combined

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2020PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

GS1 2000PYQ 2

The new Gross Domestic Product (GDP) series released by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in February 1999 is with reference to base price of

GS-3Economy

6.India Energy Week 2026 Highlights (Energy Transition)

PIBIEW 2026 · Green Hydrogen · OALP

What & Where

India Energy Week (IEW): annual flagship global energy platform, started 2023; 2026 edition hosted in Goa.

Patronage: Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas; forum links governments, industry, innovators for secure, affordable, sustainable energy future.

Focus: twin strategy of conventional supply security plus accelerated clean transitions under concept of “energy addition” not replacement.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Energy Transition

Paradigm: “Energy addition” demands continued investment in oil, gas, LNG, biofuels, green hydrogen simultaneously.
Drivers: emerging markets, digitalisation, integrated energy systems place India at centre of future global demand growth.
Price-shielding: OMC interventions averted pass-through; India retains among world’s lowest retail fuel and LPG prices.

International Partnership

UAE: reaffirmed reliable crude, LPG supplier; cautioned that underinvestment is biggest global energy system risk.
Target: bilateral India-UAE trade to double from USD 100 bn FY25 to USD 200 bn by 2032.
Rankings: UAE 4th oil source, 3rd trading partner, 2nd export destination for India.

Legal & Policy

Upstream: Oilfield Amendment Act 2025, P&NG Rules 2025, HELP & OALP liberalise basins, simplify regulation.
Downstream: Unified Pipeline Tariff under One Nation One Gas Grid curbs regional gas price disparities.
Renewables: PM-Surya Ghar, PM-KUSUM, Green Hydrogen Mission, Biofuel Policy achieved 20% ethanol blending by 2025.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
IEW 2026 Venue	Goa
IEW First Edition	2023
India solar capacity rank (2025)	3rd
India wind capacity rank (2025)	4th
Electricity capacity from non-fossil	50% reached, five years early
UAE rank in India’s oil imports	4th
India-UAE trade FY25	USD 100.06 bn
Trade target Year 2032	USD 200 bn
Ethanol blending achieved	20% in 2025
Goa 100% RE target year	2050

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 1

India's installed solar capacity in 2025 is close to

ESE_GS, GEO_GS 2026PYQ 2

What is the name of the initiative launched by India and Denmark in November 2025 to enhance bilateral ties?

GS-1HistoryQuick Bite

7.Mahatma Gandhi Death Anniversary (Freedom Movement Leader)

PIB30 January 1948 · Birla House · Martyrs' Day

What & Where

Martyrs' Day (Shaheed Diwas/Gandhi Punyatithi) commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination on 30 Jan 1948.

Central homage: Raj Ghat cremation memorial; leaders also gather at Gandhi Smriti (Birla House), New Delhi.

Day is likewise called Sarvodaya Day, echoing Gandhi’s ideal of “upliftment of all”.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Historical Events

30 Jan 1948: Gandhi shot during evening prayer at Birla House.
Nathuram Godse hanged 15 Nov 1949, Ambala Central Jail.
2026 marks Gandhi’s 78th martyrdom year.

Commemorative Practices

Two-minute nationwide silence and all-religion prayers on 30 Jan.
Prime Minister customarily lays wreaths at Gandhi Smriti and Raj Ghat.
Sarvodaya Day programmes promote constructive work, village uplift.

International Recognition

UNGA Resolution 61/271 (2007) institutionalised 2 Oct as International Day of Non-Violence.
Global peace marches, lectures honour Gandhian satyagraha principles.
Date aligns with Gandhi’s 1869 birth in Porbandar, Gujarat.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Assassination date	30 Jan 1948
Site of assassination	Birla House (now Gandhi Smriti), New Delhi
Assassin	Nathuram Godse
Godse execution	15 Nov 1949, Ambala Jail
Death anniversary 2026	78th
National observance name	Martyrs' Day / Gandhi Punyatithi
Main tribute spot	Raj Ghat, Delhi
Gandhi birth date	2 Oct 1869
UN move (2007)	2 Oct declared International Day of Non-Violence

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 1998PYQ 1

Which one of the following events was characterised by Montague as ‘Preventive Murder’?

GS-3S&T

8.Stealth Coronal Mass Ejections (Space Weather)

DD NewsStealth CME · Solar eruption · Geomagnetic storm

Illustration for Stealth Coronal Mass Ejections (Space Weather)

What & Where

Stealth Coronal Mass Ejection: optically faint solar eruption lacking standard flare/X-ray/radio precursors.

Forms in Sun’s corona near weak active regions or coronal holes; travels through interplanetary space toward Earth.

March 2023 intense geomagnetic storm traced to a stealth CME—highlighting hidden space-weather threats.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Formation Process

Flux-rope buildup without explosive flare; gradual magnetic restructuring.
Weak magnetic reconnection slowly releases plasma, minimal electromagnetic footprint.
CME gains speed along open field lines adjoining coronal holes.

Geoeffectiveness Factors

Travels behind/within high-speed streams, boosting impact energy.
Cloud expansion en route amplifies magnetic field size.
Southward B-field orientation maximises magnetospheric reconnection.

Forecasting & Observation

Existing early-warning models rely on flare/radio cues—ineffective for stealth CMEs.
Multi-point, coronagraph-plus-heliospheric imagery essential for timely detection.
Study showcased coordinated data from four NASA/ESA spacecraft.

Infrastructure Risk

Potential outages: satellite control, GNSS precision, HF/VHF radio links.
Induces geomagnetically-induced currents threatening long-distance power grids.
Flight path rerouting needed during severe polar communication blackouts.

Strategic Significance

India’s growing navigation, remote-sensing, telecom constellations heighten vulnerability.
Accurate space-weather services vital for Digital India, power sector resilience.
Encourages domestic investment in multi-point heliophysics missions.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Low-coronal signatures	Absent; no flare, X-ray burst, strong radio spike
Magnetic structure	Slow-built twisted flux rope
Typical origin zone	Weak active regions / edges of coronal holes
Key accelerator	High-speed solar wind from nearby coronal hole
Geo-effectiveness driver	Southward-oriented magnetic field enabling reconnection with Earth
March 2023 event	Severe geomagnetic storm linked to stealth CME
Main detection tools	SDO, Solar Orbiter, STEREO-A, WIND (multi-spacecraft)
Forecasting gap	Standard flare-based alerts ineffective
Critical infrastructure at risk	Satellites, GPS, power grids, aviation routes

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 ?

GS-3S&T

9.Patent Law Challenges in Space (Space IPR)

The HinduOuter Space Treaty 1967 · Article VIII · ISS agreement

What & Where

Outer-space patents: national laws applied to registered spacecraft/modules under Article VIII OST, 1967

Core clash: territorial IP rights vs sovereignty-free mandate covering Moon, Mars, asteroids

Geography: International Space Station (LEO) now; future integrated lunar bases, Martian habitats

Quick Facts for MCQs

Legal & Policy

Patent exclusivity on life-support risks violating Article I “benefit for all humankind”
Flags-of-convenience possible by registering craft under weak IP enforcement states
OST keeps states liable/responsible even for private actors (Arts VI, VII)

ISS Model Limits

Segmented modules enable clear national jurisdiction
Multinational lunar base likely integrated, blurring invention location
Static ISS precedent inadequate for dynamic surface operations

Coordination Challenges

Artemis Accords coordinate traffic, not ownership/enforcement
Most countries remain rule-takers; no global IP mechanism yet
Uneven adoption hampers shared tech-development for survival systems

IP Loopholes

Unclear if “temporary presence” shields space hardware in transit from infringement suits
Essential tech patents could create de facto exclusion zones
Enforcement void incentivises strategic non-registration

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Outer Space Treaty (OST) adoption	1966; in force 1967
OST Articles banning sovereignty	Article II non-appropriation
OST “benefit of mankind” clause	Article I
National law trigger in space	Registration of space object (Art VIII OST)
ISS legal tool	1998 Intergovernmental Agreement; module-by-module jurisdiction
Paris Convention clause queried	“Temporary presence” doctrine, 1883
Artemis Accords nature	Non-binding coordination; no jurisdiction powers
India & OST	Signed 1967; ratified 1982
States parties to OST	115+

GS-2Environment

10.US Withdraws from International Solar Alliance (International Solar Alliance)

The HinduISA · US exit · Paris COP21

What & Where

Alliance: International Solar Alliance (ISA), first treaty-based inter-governmental body focused on solar, conceived at COP-21, Paris 2015.

HQ: Gurugram, Haryana; Assembly = apex decision organ with one vote per member.

Geography: Initially Tropic-zone states; 2020 amendment opened membership to all UN countries.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Institutional Structure

Apex: Assembly, assisted by Secretariat & regional centres for capacity-building.
Financing: Voluntary country contributions; India supplies bulk core budget.
Legal-change: 2020 amendment removed Tropic restriction, enabling universal membership.

Economic Angle

Investment-goal: Mobilise USD 1 trillion for solar in Global South by 2030.
Risk-mitigation: ISA pushing blended finance, guarantee instruments post-US exit.
Market-chance: Void aids Indian EPC firms to win projects in Africa, SIDS.

Tech & Schemes

Initiative: SUNRISE Network promotes solar waste recycling, circular economy.
Platform: Global Capability Centre + ISA Academy offers AI-based e-learning on PV skills.
Grid-focus: OSOWOG targets Asia–Middle East–Europe–Africa interconnections.

International Dynamics

Signal: US pullout seen as waning commitment to multilateral climate action.
Response: ISA courting EU, Japan, ADB, AIIB to plug finance & tech gaps.
Diplomacy: India positioning ISA as neutral, inclusive hub averting climate governance bifurcation.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Founding partners	India & France
Legal form	Framework Agreement under UN treaty law
Launch date	30 Nov 2015 (COP-21)
US membership period	2021 – Jan 2026
Current signatories	100+; 90+ ratified
Core strategy	‘Towards 1000’ (USD 1 tn, 1 bn people, 1 000 GW, 1 Gt CO₂ cut by 2030)
Key initiative	OSOWOG – global solar power grid
Small-island tool	SIDS Solar Procurement Platform with World Bank
Capacity India modules	~144 GW; cells ~25 GW
China’s global cell share	≈70 %

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2016PYQ 1

Consider the following statements:

GS-2Security

11.New START Nuclear Treaty Overview (Arms Control Treaty)

DD NewsNew START · US-Russia · Strategic warheads

Illustration for New START Nuclear Treaty Overview (Arms Control Treaty)

What & Where

Treaty: Bilateral New START arms-control pact between United States and Russia

Scope: Limits global deployment of strategic ICBMs, SLBMs, heavy bombers and their nuclear warheads

Geography: Governs arsenals of the world’s two largest nuclear powers, signed in Prague

Quick Facts for MCQs

Treaty Caps

Warheads: ceiling of 1,550 deployed strategic warheads per country
Deployed launchers: maximum 700 ICBMs, SLBMs, heavy bombers
Total launchers: 800 including non-deployed reserve systems

Verification & Transparency

On-site inspections allow physical confirmation of declared arsenals
Mandatory data exchanges provide twice-yearly inventories and movement notices
Notification regime builds day-to-day predictability, lowering accidental escalation risk

Status & Strategic Impact

Single extension used in 2021; treaty terminates 5 Feb 2026 without successor
Russia suspended treaty duties Feb 2023; core numerical limits still informally respected
Expiry would erase last US-Russia nuclear limit, spurring possible arms race

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Signed (month / year)	April 2010
Entered into force	February 2011
Signatories	USA & Russia
Duration clause	10 yrs + one 5-yr extension
Current expiry	5 February 2026
Warhead ceiling	1,550 deployed strategic
Deployed launcher cap	700 ICBM + SLBM + bombers
Total launcher cap	800 deployed & non-deployed
Verification tools	On-site inspections, data exchanges, notifications
Russian status	Participation suspended February 2023

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

GS1 2011PYQ 1

The “New START” treaty was in the news. What is this treaty?

GS-3SecurityQuick Bite

12.Made-in-India C-295 Rollout (Transport Aircraft Indigenisation)

Indian ExpressC-295 · Airbus-Tata FAL · Vadodara plant

Illustration for Made-in-India C-295 Rollout (Transport Aircraft Indigenisation)

What & Where

C-295 twin-engine turboprop tactical transport aircraft; medium-range platform for Indian Air Force fleet renewal

Airbus-Tata Final Assembly Line located at Vadodara, Gujarat; first India-built unit slated before September 2026

Part of Rs 21,935 crore 2021 India-Spain contract for 56 aircraft—16 fly-away from Spain, 40 built in India

Quick Facts for MCQs

Security Dimension

Fleet-upgrade: 56 C-295s will phase out ageing Avro-748 transporters
Capability: Medium-range tactical lift enhances IAF logistics to forward areas

Economic Angle

Trade: Goods exchange touched USD 9.32 bn in 2024 led by fuels, chemicals, machinery
Investment: Spain holds USD 4.29 bn cumulative FDI, ranking 16th in India
Contract: Rs 21,935 cr deal strengthens domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem

Bilateral Relations

Partnership: Nations agreed to elevate ties to Strategic Partnership level in 2026
Indo-Pacific: Spain joined India-led IPOI, boosting maritime collaboration
Soft-power: 2026 marked as Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, Artificial Intelligence celebrating 70 yrs diplomacy

Tech & Industry

FAL: Airbus-Tata line in Vadodara creates first private military aircraft assembly in India
Manufacturing mix: 40 aircraft indigenously built, 16 delivered ready-to-fly from Spain

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Contract year	2021
Deal value	Rs 21,935 crore
Total aircraft	56
Fly-away units from Spain	16
To be manufactured in India	40
Indian assembly site	Vadodara, Gujarat
Indian partner firm	Tata Advanced Systems Ltd
First India-built rollout target	≤ Sep 2026
Aircraft to be replaced	Avro-748 (UK origin)
Aircraft category	Twin-engine turboprop tactical transport
Partner country	Spain
Spain’s rank in EU trade with India	6th
Bilateral trade (2024)	USD 9.32 billion
Spain’s FDI rank in India	16th
Cumulative Spain FDI in India	USD 4.29 billion
Spain in IPOI	Joined
Planned tie status (2026)	Strategic Partnership
2026 celebration theme	Dual Year of Culture, Tourism & AI

GS-3SecurityQuick Bite

13.US 'Discombobulator' Non-Lethal Weapon System (Non-Lethal Weapons)

Indian ExpressDiscombobulator · Active Denial System · Sonic cannon

What & Where

Discombobulator: classified US suite of non-lethal & electronic-warfare tools fielded under Operation Absolute Resolve.

Combines anti-personnel (ADS heat-ray, LRAD sonic cannon, laser dazzler, vortex ring) with anti-infrastructure (EW jammers, CHAMP HPM, graphite bombs) plus Suter cyber package.

First reported theatre: Venezuelan air-defence suppression, 2026.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Anti-Personnel Technology

ADS millimetre-wave beam heats outer 2 mm skin to ~55 °C, causing instant pain & flight.
LRAD directs 150 dB, 2.5 kHz beam; induces nausea, vertigo, confusion while doubling as hailer.
Laser dazzlers (green, Class IIIb/IV) overwhelm retina, give seconds-long blindness without lasting damage.

Anti-Infrastructure Tools

EW pods jam radar, comms, sensor links, blinding integrated air defences.
CHAMP cruise-missile pulses microwave; fries electronics yet spares buildings & lives.
Graphite bombs disperse conductive fibres, short-circuit transformers, triggering wide-area blackouts.

Cyber Warfare

Suter loaded on EC-130, F-15, UAVs; penetrates networks from the air.
Enables real-time radar spoofing, sensor takeover, SAM mis-targeting.
Creates kinetic-cyber synergy: jam, hack, microwave in coordinated wave.

Security Dimension

Provides non-lethal option for politically sensitive interventions, reducing collateral casualties.
Effects largely reversible, easing post-conflict recovery & legal scrutiny.
Blurs escalation ladder, complicating adversary retaliation and international attribution.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Operation codename	Absolute Resolve
Deployment theatre	Venezuela
System nickname	Discombobulator
Weapon nature	Multi non-lethal & EW suite
Core anti-personnel tech	ADS, LRAD, laser dazzler, vortex ring
Core anti-infrastructure tech	EW jamming, CHAMP HPM, graphite munitions
CHAMP full form	Counter-electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project
Cyber module	Suter 1–3
Suter 1 task	Monitor enemy radar
Suter 2 task	Seize enemy sensors
Suter 3 task	Hack SAM launcher links

GS-2Scheme

14.NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme (PFRDA Pilot Scheme)

Times of IndiaPFRDA · Regulatory Sandbox · Healthcare financing

What & Where

Scheme; pilot NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme integrates medical-expense cover with pension savings.

Process; operates inside PFRDA Regulatory Sandbox as Proof-of-Concept, limited subscribers.

Geography; open to all Indian citizens, except govt-sector for transfer facility.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Tech & Schemes

Multiple Scheme Framework ensures regulated asset allocation, mirrors existing NPS investment norms.
Digital consent, online claim workflow enable paperless processing.
Health-linked pension a first in NPS ecosystem, may spawn similar hybrid products.

Economic Angle

Objective reduce out-of-pocket medical spend, curb asset liquidation during health shocks.
Encourages long-term savings by coupling retirement and health security.
Pilot data will inform scalability, pricing and fiscal implications for wider roll-out.

Legal & Policy

Sandbox approval allows controlled experimentation without full regulatory amendments.
Compliance with Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 mandated for all data handling.
Mandatory disclosures on benefits, fees, exits strengthen consumer protection standards.

Social Concerns

Addresses medical impoverishment risk among ageing population lacking employer health cover.
Voluntary entry widens coverage beyond organised workforce.
Unlimited withdrawal count offers flexibility for chronic disease management.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
Regulator	Pension Fund Regulatory & Development Authority (PFRDA)
Framework	Regulatory Sandbox, Proof of Concept
Nature	Voluntary, contributory, sector-specific under NPS
Minimum corpus for first withdrawal	₹50,000
OPD/IPD withdrawal limit	Up to 25 % of own contributions
Number of withdrawals	Unlimited
Critical illness trigger	Single IPD >70 % corpus → 100 % exit allowed
Transfer from Common A/c	Up to 30 % contributions; age >40; non-government
Claims payment	Direct to HBA/TPA/hospital; surplus back to NPS a/c
Governance	Digital consent per DPDP Act 2023; disclosures & grievance redressal

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

ESE_GS 2022PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)?

GS-1Editorial

15.India’s Low Public Health Spending (Health Expenditure)

The HinduNational Health Policy 2017 · 2.5% of GDP target · Centre-State spending

What & Where

Public health spending = Union + State budget outlays on healthcare services, infrastructure, preventive programmes.

National Health Policy 2017 sets quantitative targets for universal, affordable care across India.

Fiscal locus: Centre finances ~30 %, States ~70 %; transfers via Centrally Sponsored Schemes span all States/UTs.

Quick Facts for MCQs

Fiscal Trends

Union-spend dips: 0.37 % GDP (2020-21) to 0.29 % (2025-26).
State-spend climbs: 0.67 % → 1.1 % GDP; still below NHP ask.
Transfer shrinkage undermines state capacity; CSS share fell 33 percentage points in a decade.

Policy Targets

Spending: 2.5 % GDP overall; states ≥8 % budgets by 2025.
Health outcomes: MMR 100 (2020); U5MR 23, NCD mortality −25 % (2025).
Disease control: TB elimination 2025; sustain kala-azar, leprosy elimination.

Challenges

Incentive bias toward visible infrastructure over long-term health systems.
Financing architecture fragmented; no ring-fenced, multi-year health pool.
Private-sector dominance dilutes public pressure for budget hike.

Reform Proposals

Fiscal: widen tax base, health-specific cess, fast-track 15th FC health grants.
Efficiency: outcome budgeting, DBT, transparent audits to curb leakages.
Legal: enact Right to Health, shift public health to Concurrent List for enforceable norms.

Key Data Points

Feature	Data-Point
NHP 2017 public-spend goal	2.5 % of GDP by 2025
Target Union share	1 % of GDP (≈40 % total)
Actual Union spend 2025-26	0.29 % of GDP
Peak Union spend Covid year	0.37 % of GDP (2020-21)
State spend rise	0.67 % → 1.1 % GDP (2017-18 to 2025-26)
Centre share in CSS health funds	75.9 % (2014-15) → 43 % (2024-25)
Health & Education Cess to health	~25 % of collection in 2023-24
India vs Bhutan per-capita spend	Bhutan 2.5 × India (2021)
India vs BRICS per-capita spend	BRICS average 14-15 × India

Related UPSC Prelims PYQs

CDS_GK, GS1 2021PYQ 1

Which one of the following statements in the context of social sector spending in India during 2014–19 (both States and the Union Government together) is true?

CDS_GK, GS1 2023PYQ 2

Consider the following statements:

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