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  • Nourish to flourish, the nutrition and cognititon link

    Introduction

    The first 1,000 days of life, from conception to a child’s second birthday, form a once-in-a-lifetime window for shaping lifelong health, learning, and productivity. Science shows that by age two, the brain reaches 80% of its adult size, and missing this phase leads to irreversible losses in nutrition and cognition. Despite progress, India still faces high levels of stunting and poor early learning, making early childhood investment a nation-building priority.

    Why is this in the news?

    India has reduced malnutrition since the 1990s, but progress is too slow, at the current pace, stunting will fall to 10% only by 2075. To meet the 2047 target, the pace must double. New initiatives like Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi and Navchetana reflect a fresh focus on integrating nutrition with cognitive development, but gaps remain in coverage, quality, and urban reach, making this issue urgent.

    Scientific insights on first 1,000 days

    1. Brain Growth: By age two, the brain reaches 80% of adult size; synapse formation and frontal lobe spurts shape planning, memory, and regulation.
    2. Nutritional Deficits: Deficiencies before age three are often irreversible, with lifelong consequences.
    3. Cohort Study Evidence: A Tamil Nadu study linked early childhood iron deficiency to poor verbal performance, slower processing, and weaker expressive language.
    4. Neuroplasticity: Learning acquired in this phase is fast and permanent, e.g., acquisition of regional language or nursery rhymes.

    Limits of nutrition-only interventions 

    1. Integrated Development: Stand-alone nutrition programmes show only low-to-moderate outcomes.
    2. Combined Impact: Nutrition + stimulation interventions lead to stronger cognitive and health outcomes.
    3. Example: Birth-cohort studies show poor language skills when nutrition is not coupled with stimulation, underlining the “cut from the same cloth” nature of brain and body growth.

    India’s policy response to early childhood development 

    1. ICDS: World’s largest childcare scheme, focusing on nutrition and early learning.
    2. Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi: Seeks to integrate nutrition with learning stimulation.
    3. Navchetana Framework: Offers 140 age-based activities (0–3 years) through a 36-month stimulation calendar; relies on home visits by Anganwadi and caregivers.
    4. Home-based Play Learning: Encourages children to learn through activities, not formal teaching, improving social and cognitive skills.

    Persistent challenges in ensuring holistic child care

    1. Stunting Persistence: At current rate, 10% stunting target may take till 2075.
    2. Service Saturation Gaps: ICDS yet to achieve full coverage and quality across states.
    3. Urban Challenges: Services weak in cities despite high demand.
    4. Workforce Empowerment: 14 lakh Anganwadi workers remain overburdened and undertrained.
    5. Women in Workforce: Limited crèche facilities constrain female labour participation; need public-private-community partnerships.

    Urgency of investment in the age of automation 

    1. Automation Risk: Future job markets will offer fewer opportunities to low-skilled workers.
    2. Human Capital: Early investment ensures a workforce equipped with cognitive resilience and adaptability.
    3. Intergenerational Impact: Better child development empowers women, reduces poverty, and enhances societal well-being.

    Conclusion

    The first 1,000 days are the golden window of human development, missing it means irreversible losses. India has the policies, infrastructure, and scientific backing to act, but weak implementation, inadequate urban reach, and insufficient integration of nutrition with learning continue to limit outcomes. With 2047 as a national milestone, accelerating investment in children’s earliest years is not just a welfare necessity but an economic and ethical imperative.

    UPSC PYQ Linkage

    [2021, GS 2] “Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and evaluate its implementation.”

    Linkage: Both focus on gaps in child-centric programmes and need for holistic approaches.

  • In news: Women Revolutionaries of Bengal 

    Why in the News?

    This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in the Indian Express.

    Women in Revolutionary Movements:

    Pritilata Waddedar:

    • Early Life: Born on 5 May 1911 in Chittagong. One of the first Bengali women to lead an armed revolutionary group.
    • Education: Graduated in philosophy from Bethune College, Kolkata; became a school teacher.
    • Inspiration: Influenced by revolutionary literature and women’s activism; joined Deepali Sangha.
    • Role: Collected bomb cases, distributed pamphlets, gathered jail intelligence by posing as relatives.
    • Legacy: Left a suicide note explaining her cause; remembered as a fearless martyr.

    Kalpana Datta:

    • Early Life: Born in 1913 in Sripur, Chittagong; studied at Bethune College, joined Chhatri Sangha.
    • Activities: Conducted reconnaissance before the European Club attack; arrested a week earlier.
    • Later Role: Joined bombing attempt to free Surya Sen; sentenced to life, released in 1939.
    • Post-freedom: Became a Communist Party leader, focused on social activism.

    Bina Das:

    • Early Life: At 21, attempted assassination of Governor Stanley Jackson (1932) with a revolver supplied by Kamala Das Gupta.
    • Networks: Part of secret revolutionary student circles.
    • Court Statement: Famous for her passionate resistance plea before Calcutta High Court.

    Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain:

    • Early Life: Born on 9 December 1880; pioneer of women’s rights and education.
    • Writings: Authored “Sultana’s Dream” (1908), envisioning a feminist utopia.
    • Institutions: Founded the first school for Muslim girls in Kolkata; formed Muslim Women’s Association (1916).
    • Activism: Led women’s conferences, challenged purdah, advocated education.

    Kamala Das Gupta:

    • Early Life: Born in Dhaka; completed MA in history at Kolkata. Initially Gandhian, later joined Jugantar.
    • Role: Provided shelter, weapons, and materials; arrested multiple times.
    • Connection: Supplied Bina Das with revolver for her assassination attempt.
    • Legacy: Wrote “Rakter Akshare” and “Swadhinata Sangrame Nari”; led refugee relief and vocational training.

    Nanibala Devi:

    • Early Life: Disguised as a revolutionary’s wife; spied in prisons for intelligence.
    • Sacrifice: Endured brutal police torture (including red chili powder) without revealing secrets.
    • End: Died in poverty but symbolised courage and resilience.

    Labanya Prabha Ghosh:

    • Early Life: Born on 14 August 1897, Purulia.
    • Contribution: Helped establish Shilpashram, hub of revolutionaries like Subhas Bose, C.R. Das.
    • Political Role: First woman MLA from Purulia; wrote and edited nationalist journals.
    • Later Activism: Led movements for land rights, justice for the poor.

    Matangini Hazra (“Gandhi Buri”):

    • Early Life: Born in 1870, Hogla village, Midnapore; widowed young, lived in poverty.
    • Freedom Struggle: Joined Salt Satyagraha, arrested for making salt; resisted chowkidari tax.
    • Repression: Imprisoned and beaten; served the sick during epidemics.
    • Martyrdom: Killed by police firing while leading Quit India procession (1942), holding the tricolour until death.
    [UPSC 2009] During the freedom struggle, Aruna Asaf Ali was a major woman organizer of underground activity in

    Options:

    (a) Civil Disobedience Movement

    (b) Non-Cooperation Movement

    (c) Quit India Movement*

    (d) Swadeshi Movement

     

  • Census 2027 and Urban Area Definition

    Why in the News?

    The Registrar General of India (RGI) has announced that the same definition of “urban area” used in Census 2011 will be retained in Census 2027 to ensure comparability of data and analysis of urbanisation trends.

    Background and Urbanisation Trends:

    • Census 2011 Data: India’s population was 121 crore – 68.8% rural (83.3 crore) and 31.2% urban (37.7 crore).
    • Trend: Urban share grew from 17.3% in 1951 to 31% in 2011, showing rapid urbanisation.
    • Units: 6,40,867 villages and 15,870 urban units recorded in 2011.

    Definition of Urban Area:

    • Statutory Towns: Include municipal corporations, nagar palikas, town panchayats, cantonment boards, and notified town area committees.
    • Census Town Criteria:
      • Minimum population of 5000;
      • Population Density ≥ 400 persons per sq. km;
      • Workforce: ≥ 75% of male workers in non-agricultural activities.
    • District HQs: Headquarters not legally notified as towns will be Census Towns only if they meet criteria.
    • Exclusions: Plantations and orchards outside statutory towns will not be treated as “forests” under this definition.

    Special Features of Census 2027:

    • Caste Data: For the first time, caste enumeration included (approved April 2024).
    • Worker Classification: Male agricultural workers (cultivators, labourers, livestock, forestry, fishing, hunting, plantations) excluded when calculating non-agricultural engagement.
    • Error Correction: Grouping multiple villages into one Census Town discontinued; identification now at village level.

    Preparatory Work and Timelines:

    • Jurisdiction Updates: All changes in villages/towns/wards updated till 31 December 2025.
    • Boundary Freeze: Administrative boundaries fixed on 1 January 2026.
    • Village Review: Villages with 4,000+ population in 2011 re-examined to meet 5,000 threshold by 2027.
    • Phases:
      • Houselisting & Housing Census (HLO) – April 2026.
      • Population Enumeration (PE) – February 2027.
    [UPSC 2002] Consider the following statements about the megacities of India:

    I. Population of each megacity is more than 5 million.

    II. All the megacities are important sea ports.

    III. Megacities are either national or State capitals.

    Which of these statements are correct?

    (a) I, II and III

    (b) I and II

    (c) II and III

    (d) I and III *

     

  • Asgard Archaea and the Evolution of Complex Cells

    Why in the News?

    Recent research by IISc on Asgard archaea — the closest living relatives of eukaryotes — has shed new light on how simple prokaryotic cells evolved into complex eukaryotic cells with nuclei, cytoskeletons, and organelles.

    About Asgard Archaea:

    • Nature: Tiny microbes living in deep-sea mud and extreme environments.
    • Evolutionary Link: Closest relatives of eukaryotic cells (plants, animals, humans).
    • Importance: Help explain how simple prokaryotic cells (bacteria/archaea) evolved into complex eukaryotic cells.
    • Significance: Considered the “missing link” in the origin of complex life.

    Findings from Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Study:

    • Focus: Scientists studied a subgroup called Odinarchaeota.
    • Discovery: Found two FtsZ genes (most microbes have one) and a tubulin-like gene.
      • FtsZ1: Works like bacterial proteins → forms straight filaments and attaches to cell membranes.
      • FtsZ2: Builds spiral structures but needs helper proteins to stick to membranes.
    • Division of Labour: Cooperation of FtsZ1 and FtsZ2 shows early signs of cellular specialisation.
    • Clue for Evolution: Suggests Asgard microbes were already experimenting with primitive “cytoskeleton” systems, paving way for complex cells.
    [UPSC 2012] Which one of the following sets of elements was primarily responsible for the origin of life on the Earth?

    Options:

    (a) Hydrogen, Oxygen, Sodium

    (b) Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen*

    (c) Oxygen, Calcium, Phosphorus

    (d) Carbon, Hydrogen, Potassium

     

  • Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) 

    Why in the News?

    The DRDO has successfully conducted the maiden flight-tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the coast of Odisha.

    Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) 

    About the Indigenous Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS):

    • Overview: A multi-layered indigenous system developed to neutralise a wide spectrum of aerial threats.
    • Integration: Combines 3 components viz. Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).
    • Control: All systems are networked through a Command-and-Control Centre developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad.

    Key Components of IADWS:

    1. QRSAM:
      • Short-range missile system for protecting moving Army armoured formations.
      • Range: 3–30 km.
      • Equipped with 360° surveillance and tracking radars.
      • Fully automated, mobile, and capable of “search on move” and “track on move.”
    2. VSHORADS:
      • Fourth-generation man-portable air defence system (MANPAD).
      • Range: 300 m – 6 km.
      • Targets include drones, UAVs, and low-altitude aerial threats.
      • Deployable across Army, Navy, and Air Force.
    3. Directed Energy Weapon (DEW):
      • Vehicle-mounted laser system.
      • Range: <3 km.
      • Proven in field trials against UAVs and drone swarms.

    Strategic Significance:

    • Multi-Layer Defence: Provides aerial protection up to 30 km against threats from drones to fighter jets.
    • Self-Reliance: Enhances indigenous capability, reducing dependence on imported defence systems.
    • National Security: Strengthens preparedness for Mission Sudarshan Chakra — India’s planned national air defence shield.
    • Technological Integration: Demonstrates India’s leap in combining missile and laser-based defence on a single platform.
    • Geostrategic Importance: Seen as a milestone in India’s path to advanced, self-reliant defence systems.
    [UPSC 2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    Options:

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system*

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

     

  • Nepal officially joins IBCA

    Why in the News?

    Nepal has officially joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), an India-led global initiative to protect seven species of big cats.

    About the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

    • Overview: A global multi-country, multi-agency alliance of 95 countries (range and non-range) focused on conserving big cats and their habitats.
    • Launch: Proposed by PM Modi in 2019; officially launched in April 2023 on Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
    • Conservation Scope: Works to protect 7 species of big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma.
    • Functions: Operates through advocacy, knowledge-sharing, eco-tourism promotion, and resource mobilisation.
    • Conflict Mitigation: Aims to reduce human–wildlife conflict and restore degraded habitats.
    • Institutional Structure:
      • Governance: Managed by a General Assembly, elected Council, and Secretariat headed by a Secretary-General.
      • Headquarters: Permanent base established in India following ratification of the HQ agreement.

    Global Participation

    • Membership: Includes 95 countries across Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe/Central Asia. Examples:
      • Asia: India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Iran.
      • Africa: Kenya, Congo, Ghana.
      • Americas: Brazil, Ecuador, United States.
      • Europe/Central Asia: Russia, Kazakhstan.
    • Ratification: Bhutan, Eswatini, Cambodia, Guinea, India, Liberia, Nicaragua, Somalia, and Suriname have deposited ratification instruments.

    India’s Role:

    • Biodiversity Hub: India hosts 5 of the 7 big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah — and holds 70% of global tiger population.
    • Funding: Government committed ₹150 crore for 2023–2028; mobilising international contributions.
    • Leadership: India sets global benchmarks in wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship, positioning itself as a leader in big cat protection.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 2

     

  • NCERT textbooks introduce Indian Art Forms

    Why in the News?

    For the first time, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced Indian classical music, dance, theatre, and visual arts into primary and middle school textbooks (Classes 3 to 8).

    About Classical Arts in School Textbooks

    • For the first time, NCERT has integrated Indian classical arts (music, dance, theatre, and visual arts) into textbooks for Classes 3 to 8.
    • The reform aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which mandates rooting education in India’s ethos and cultural heritage.
    • Music content includes swar, laya, shabd, Sanskrit shloka recitations, folk songs, ragas from Hindustani & Carnatic music.
    • Dance content covers 8 classical dance forms — Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Sattriya.
    • Draws from ancient texts like Natyashastra, Brihaddeshi, Sangita Damodara, Abhinaya Darpanam.
    • Pedagogy: Emphasis on exposure, appreciation, and creativity rather than mastery. Includes storytelling, abhinaya (expressions), theatre, group performances.

    Classical Dance Forms Mentioned:

    Dance Form Details
    Bharatnatyam (Tamil Nadu) Oldest dance form; temple origins; fixed torso, bent legs, intricate footwork; emphasis on abhinaya and mudras; devotional themes (Bhakti rasa).
    Kathak (North India) Storytelling tradition (katha = story); features fast spins (chakkars) and rhythmic footwork; evolved in temples & Mughal courts; uses ghungroo.
    Kathakali (Kerala) Dance-drama with elaborate costumes, makeup, masks; based on Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas; strong gestures, expressions (navarasas).
    Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh) Blend of dance & drama with dialogue; famous Tarangam item (dance on brass plate); Vaishnav themes (Krishna stories); brisk, graceful movements.
    Manipuri (Manipur) Graceful, devotional form linked to Ras Lila of Krishna; lyrical movements, cylindrical skirt for women; avoids forceful footwork; spiritual style.
    Mohiniyattam (Kerala) “Dance of the enchantress”; soft, feminine style; gentle swaying movements; solo, mostly by women; white-golden costume; mood of lasya (grace).
    Odissi (Odisha) Temple dance linked to Jagannath worship; tribhangi posture and chauka stance; sculptural quality like temple carvings; strong Vaishnava themes.
    Sattriya (Assam) Introduced by Srimanta Sankardev in monasteries (sattras); devotional Vaishnava themes; combines dance, drama, music; recognised as classical in 2000.

     

    [UPSC 2012] How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?

    1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.

    2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.

    Options:

    (a) 1 only*

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • Reforming the steel framework

    Introduction

    Independence Day speeches are often symbolic, but in 2025 the Prime Minister shifted focus to frontier technologies, semiconductors, clean energy, AI, quantum computing, and defence indigenisation. Unlike earlier years, this vision was paired with the acknowledgment that bureaucratic inertia and regulatory red tape remain India’s toughest hurdles. The central challenge is whether India’s governance structures can keep pace with its technological ambitions.

    Significance of the 2025 Speech by the Prime Minister 

    • Future focus: Strong emphasis on frontier areas like semiconductors, EVs, and jet engines.
    • Symbolic push: The PM asked if fighter jet engines should not be Indian-made.
    • Bold promise: India will shed dependency in two decades.
    • Data milestone: India is the largest per capita data consumer (32 GB), ahead of China and the US.

    India’s current position in technology and self-reliance

    • Strength in mid-tech: Success in fintech, data access, and digitisation
    • Emerging hubs: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Gurugram drive high-tech growth.
    • Import dependency: India depends heavily on imports in semiconductors, defence hardware, AI hardware, and clean energy technologies.
    • Global presence: Firms like Nvidia and IBM rely on India’s talent pool, but domestic ecosystems remain thin.

    Bureaucratic Challenges that obstruct deep-tech ambition

    • Colonial bureaucratic legacy: The Westminster model prioritised control over innovation and accountability.
    • Rigid steel frame: The “steel frame” of the civil services designed to ensure subservience to colonial administrators remains rigid even a century after the Public Service Commission’s creation in 1926.
    • Unrealised reforms: The Veerappa Moily Committee (2005) suggested domain experts and ethics codes-still pending.
    • Lateral entry limits: Attempts at inducting experts face systemic resistance.

    Why are regulatory and judicial reforms critical?

    • Persistent red tape: The Deregulation Commission (2025) was set up to identify redundant compliance norms, but structural bottlenecks persist.
    • Judicial backlog: Slow dispute resolution and investment climate, affectshigh-tech sectors.
    • Comparative lessons:
      • US & China: Despite different models, both empower political leadership over bureaucracy to push national interests.
      • UK: Even Britain debates its bureaucratic model, Dominic Cummings under Boris Johnson pushed for external competition and greater ministerial control.

    How does this link to Viksit Bharat@2047?

    • Ambition vs. architecture: India’s goal of becoming a deep-tech powerhouse is contingent not just on financial investment but on restructuring governance.
    • Symbolic timing: The UPSC centenary in 2026 is a historic chance for overhaul.
    • Future-readiness: Without structural reform, Atmanirbhar Bharat may remain aspirational.

    Conclusion

    India’s ambition to lead in deep-tech must be matched with institutional reform. The PM’s 2025 speech acknowledged that Atmanirbharta is as much about fixing bureaucratic bottlenecks as building jet engines or quantum labs. The centenary of UPSC offers an opportune moment to align India’s governance with its 2047 goals.

    Value Addition
    Committees on Civil Service Reforms

    1. Santhanam Committee (1964)

    • Focus: Preventive corruption measures.
    • Key suggestion: Creation of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).

    2. Kothari Committee (1976)

    • Focus: Recruitment and exam structure of Civil Services.
    • Key suggestion: Recommended 3-stage exam (Prelims, Mains, Interview), which is still followed today.

    3. Satish Chandra Committee (1989)

    • Focus: Review of recruitment and selection.
    • Key suggestion: Increased emphasis on aptitude and ethics in recruitment.

    4. Hota Committee (2004)

    • Focus: Ethics, transparency, and performance.
    • Key suggestion: Right to Information, performance-linked incentives, citizen charters.

    5. Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) – Veerappa Moily (2005–2009)

    Most comprehensive civil service reform report (15 volumes). Key suggestions:

    • Lateral entry of domain experts.
    • Code of Ethics & Code of Conduct.
    • Citizen-centric administration
    • Performance-based appraisal system.
    • Training in e-governance and modern management practices

    6. Punchhi Commission (2010) – on Centre-State relations

    • Relevant link: Stressed need for civil service neutrality in federal governance.

    7. Baswan Committee (2016)

    1. Focus: UPSC exam age and attempts.
    2. Key suggestion: Reduce maximum age for UPSC CSE (though not implemented).

    8. Current initiatives 

    • Lateral entry into Joint Secretary and Director-level posts.
    • Mission Karmayogi (2020): National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB) to train officers with competency-based framework.
    • Deregulation Commission (2025): Identifying and scrapping redundant compliances.

    Mapping Microthemes

    • GS Paper-II: Civil Service Reform, Regulation, Judiciary
    • GS Paper -III: Tech missions, Defence Indigenisation, Atmanirbhar Bharat
    • GS Paper -IV: Accountability, Ethics in governance

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2016] Civil Services “Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India.” Comment.

    Linkage: PM Modi’s Independence Day 2025 address highlighted that despite India’s technological advances, the colonial-era bureaucratic “steel frame” continues to obstruct innovation, investment, and governance reforms. The traditional bureaucratic structure—designed for control rather than development—remains a bottleneck in achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat. Thus, the speech directly echoes the UPSC 2016 theme that outdated bureaucratic culture hampers socio-economic transformation.

  • Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV)

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is developing its heaviest-ever rocket, the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV).

    About Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV):

    • Overview: India’s heaviest rocket under development by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
    • Purpose: Designed mainly for lunar exploration, including India’s first human mission to the Moon by 2040.
    • Strategic Role: Replaces the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) plan and will support India’s space station programme.
    • Scale: As tall as a 40-storey building, far larger than the current LVM-3.

    Key Features:

    • Payload Capacity: Can carry 80 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 27 tonnes to the Moon, suitable for human-rated spacecraft.
    • Three-stage: Partially reusable super heavy-lift vehicle with:
      • First two stages using liquid propellants.
      • Third stage using cryogenic propellant.
      • Strap-on boosters taller than the entire LVM-3 rocket.
      • 27 engines in the first stage (core + boosters).
    • Timeline: Expected completion by 2035.
    • Indigenous Development: Conceived by ISRO within months; aligned with India’s long-term space exploration goals.

    Future Missions based on LMLV:

    • Human Lunar Mission (2040 target): Capable of carrying 18–20 tonne crew modules for India’s first astronaut landing on the Moon.
    • Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): Will deploy heavy modules for India’s planned five-module space station by 2035.
    • Lunar Cargo Missions: Can transport ~27 tonnes to the Moon, supporting logistics and lunar infrastructure.
    • Deep Space Exploration: Its heavy-lift capacity could enable interplanetary missions in the 2040s, extending beyond lunar exploration.
    [UPSC 2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1.PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.

    2.Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.

    3.GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors, and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

     

    Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 3 only

     

  • Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) and Famine Declaration

    Why in the News?

    The United Nations has officially declared a famine in Gaza based on an Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) panel assessment.

    About Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC):

    • What It Is: A global standard tool to assess and classify the severity of food insecurity.
    • Established: In 2004 during the Somalia food crisis by FEWS NET (Famine Early Warning Systems Network) and partners.
    • Coordination: Led by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
    • Purpose: Supports early warning, evidence-based decision-making, and coordinated response by governments, UN agencies, NGOs, and donors.
    • Partnership Model: Combines efforts of UN bodies, NGOs, academic institutions, and national governments.

    Key Features of the IPC:

    • Five-Phase Classification System:
      • Phase 1: Minimal
      • Phase 2: Stressed
      • Phase 3: Crisis
      • Phase 4: Emergency
      • Phase 5: Catastrophe/Famine
    • Methodology:
      • Uses convergence of evidence from food access, livelihoods, nutrition, and mortality.
      • Requires technical consensus among analysts for transparency and accuracy.
      • Allows real-time assessments and 6-month forecasts to support timely action.

    What is Famine and How is it Declared?

    • Definition: IPC Phase 5 – the most extreme level of food insecurity.
    • Criteria (All Must Be Met):
      • At least 20% of households face extreme food gaps.
      • At least 30% of children under five suffer acute malnutrition (wasting).
      • Death rate: 2 adults or 4 children per 10,000 people per day.
    • Declaration: Made by UN agencies, national governments, or authorized global bodies.
    • Purpose of Declaration:
      • Mobilize international aid and emergency operations.
      • Trigger food, health, and logistics support.
      • Raise global awareness and funding for urgent interventions.
    • Past Declarations:  Somalia (2011), South Sudan (2017, 2020), Darfur, Sudan (2024)
    [UPSC 2023] Which of the following countries has been suffering from decades of civil strife and food shortages and was in news in the recent past for its very severe famine?

    Options: (a) Angola (b) Costa Rica (c) Ecuador (d) Somalia*