PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2022] Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation?
Linkage: This article highlights India’s efforts to “reinvigorate BIMSTEC” and the significance of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement in reducing trade friction and fostering multimodal linkages within the Bay of Bengal, with a broader goal of positioning India as a “regional integrator”. This question directly examines India’s foreign policy objectives through such regional organizations, which are central to its balancing act in the Bay of Bengal. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s decision to cancel Bangladesh’s transshipment facility — once seen as a step towards closer regional trade — has created tension in the Bay of Bengal region. This move came at a time when Bangladesh was seen to be strengthening ties with China, leading many to believe that India’s trade decisions are now being influenced by its strategic concerns. What was once neutral and shared trade infrastructure is now becoming politically sensitive. This is important because India is also trying to promote regional trade through BIMSTEC and position itself as a leader of fair, rules-based trade. But this action goes against those goals, making it a turning point for India’s regional diplomacy.
Today’s editorial discusses the implications of India’s recent decision to cancel Bangladesh’s transhipment facility. This content would help in GS Paper II (International Relations) in the mains Paper.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India recently withdrew Bangladesh’s access to its ports for sending goods to other countries. This move has now created tension in the Bay of Bengal.
Why did India revoke Bangladesh’s transhipment facility?
- Official Justification: Port Congestion: India cited logistical constraints and congestion at its ports, which were causing delays for Indian exporters, as the main reason for revoking the facility. Eg: Indian terminals at ports like Haldia and Kolkata were reportedly overloaded, affecting trade efficiency.
- Perceived Political Message to Bangladesh: The move was seen in Dhaka as a political signal, possibly linked to Bangladesh’s growing ties with China and a speech by its interim Chief Adviser referring to India’s Northeast as “landlocked”. Eg: The announcement followed Bangladesh’s assertion that it was a maritime lifeline for India’s Northeast, which New Delhi viewed unfavourably.
- Geopolitical Sensitivities and Strategic Hedging: India may have aimed to discourage strategic balancing by Bangladesh, especially as Dhaka has been reopening maritime trade with Pakistan and expanding engagement with Beijing. Eg: The timing suggested India was responding to Bangladesh’s diplomatic moves rather than acting purely on trade logistics.
What impact has this decision had on BIMSTEC trade and regional cooperation?
- Undermines the Spirit of Cooperative Regionalism: The withdrawal of the transshipment facility has reintroduced political conditionality into what was seen as neutral trade infrastructure, weakening trust in regional integration efforts. Eg: BIMSTEC’s Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement, aimed at easing trade, now appears less credible if access depends on bilateral politics.
- Disrupts Bangladesh’s Export Logistics: Bangladeshi exporters, especially in ready-made garments (over 85% of its foreign earnings), now face higher costs and delays in routing shipments through alternatives like Sri Lanka or Southeast Asia. Eg: Exporters relying on Indian ports for faster global access must now divert shipments to costlier and less efficient routes.
- Creates Regional Uncertainty and Strategic Caution: Other BIMSTEC members (like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar) may now view Indian trade infrastructure as subject to political shifts, potentially leading them to hedge against overdependence on India. Eg: If India’s trade facilitation appears transactional, smaller economies may seek Chinese or Southeast Asian alternatives, weakening BIMSTEC cohesion.
How does politicising trade affect India’s regional credibility?
- Erodes Trust in India’s Leadership Role: When India uses trade access as a tool of political signalling, it undermines its image as a stable and reliable regional partner. Eg: Revoking the transshipment facility with Bangladesh due to geopolitical tensions contradicts India’s projected role as a neutral integrator under initiatives like BIMSTEC and Sagarmala.
- Encourages Smaller Neighbours to Hedge Strategically: Politicised trade may push neighbouring countries to diversify economic dependencies and explore ties with rival powers such as China. Eg: Bangladesh’s increasing engagement with China, including maritime and economic cooperation, reflects a strategic shift partly influenced by India’s conditional economic approach.
- Weakens India’s Push for Rules-Based Regional Order: If trade rules are seen as subject to India’s unilateral political decisions, it undermines the credibility of multilateral frameworks India champions. Eg: The credibility of a future BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement could suffer if member states believe India might alter terms based on bilateral tensions.
Why is Bangladesh’s growing engagement with China a concern for India?
- Strategic Encirclement through China’s Influence: Bangladesh’s closer ties with China raise fears of India being strategically encircled under China’s “String of Pearls” strategy, which aims to increase Chinese presence around India’s maritime periphery. Eg: China’s involvement in Bangladesh’s port infrastructure, like the Payra and Chattogram ports, gives Beijing a potential foothold in the Bay of Bengal, affecting India’s maritime security.
- Dilution of India’s Role as a Regional Connector: If Bangladesh aligns more with China, it could sideline India’s efforts to be the primary economic and connectivity hub in South Asia. Eg: Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser referring to the country as the “maritime lifeline” for India’s Northeast indirectly challenges India’s Act East and Sagarmala initiatives.
- Undermines BIMSTEC-Led Regional Integration: China is not a BIMSTEC member, and deeper Bangladesh-China economic ties may fragment the regional architecture that India is promoting through BIMSTEC. Eg: Bangladesh’s reopening of maritime trade with Pakistan and increased Chinese engagement may discourage rules-based, India-led cooperation in the Bay of Bengal.
What measures can India take to keep trade infrastructure geopolitically neutral? (Way forward)
- Institutionalise Rules-Based Trade Frameworks: India should establish transparent, rules-based mechanisms for port access and transshipment to avoid ad-hoc or politically motivated decisions. Eg: Reinstating Bangladesh’s transshipment facility under a BIMSTEC Maritime Trade Protocol would ensure decisions are not influenced by political tensions.
- Promote Multilateral Ownership of Regional Corridors: Trade corridors should be developed through collective BIMSTEC initiatives instead of bilateral control, reducing suspicion of Indian dominance. Eg: Projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway can be expanded under a BIMSTEC umbrella for shared responsibility and access.
- Separate Strategic Concerns from Economic Policy: India must draw a firm line between diplomatic disputes and regional trade policies to preserve trust and reliability. Eg: Avoiding retaliatory restrictions (such as land port bans on Bangladeshi goods) helps maintain India’s image as a credible regional partner, even during diplomatic disagreements.
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Why in the News?
The National Sample Survey Office’s Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey (CAMS) 2022-23 is a landmark initiative that provides the first large-scale assessment of India’s digital landscape at the household and individual level.
What does the CAMS 2022–23 reveal about digital access and skills in India?
- Broadband Access is Widespread but Unequal: 76.3% of Indian households have broadband internet, indicating strong national reach. Eg: In urban areas like Delhi, over 90% of households are connected, while in states like Arunachal Pradesh, only 60.2% have access.
- Social and Economic Inequalities Persist: Broadband access is higher among General category households (84.1%), but much lower among SCs (69.1%)and STs (64.8%). Eg: In the lowest income decile, 71.6% of households lack broadband, compared to just 1.9% in the top decile.
- High Mobile Ownership But Gender and Caste Gaps Remain: Over 94% of rural households own mobile phones, but usage is skewed. Eg: Only 25.3% of rural women in the General category use mobile phones independently, and the percentage is even lower among SC/ST women.
- Basic Digital Skills are Still Limited: While many can use mobile phones, skills like emailing and online banking are still underdeveloped. Eg: Only 20% of rural and 40% of urban people can send or receive emails; only 37.8% of all people aged 15+ can perform online banking transactions.
Why does the digital divide still exist despite high internet penetration?
- Economic Inequality Limits Access: While internet availability is high, affordability remains a barrier for poorer households. Eg: In the lowest income decile, 71.6% of households lack broadband, compared to only 1.9% in the top income group.
- Social Disparities Affect Usage: Caste and gender-based inequalities reduce meaningful digital access and use. Eg: Among rural women from the General category, only 25.3% use mobile phones independently, with even lower figures among SC/ST women.
- Low Functional Digital Literacy: Having internet access does not mean people have the skills to use it effectively for education or services. Eg: Only 20% of rural and 40% of urban populations can send or receive emails, showing a gap in practical digital usage.
What digital skills are lacking among rural and urban populations?
- Email Communication Skills Are Low: A large section of the population cannot use basic email services. Eg: Only 20% in rural areas and 40% in urban areas can send or receive emails.
- Spreadsheet and Arithmetic Skills Are Poor: Most people lack the ability to perform basic digital tasks like calculations in spreadsheets. Eg: Less than 40% of Indians aged 15+ can perform arithmetic operations in spreadsheets.
- Online Banking Proficiency Is Limited: There is limited ability to use secure digital financial services. Eg: Only 37.8% of people aged 15+ in India can perform online banking transactions, indicating low digital financial literacy.
How can the government bridge the digital divide to meet the SDG 4 goals? (Way forward)
- Subsidise Internet Access for Poor Households: Make broadband a basic utility, like water or electricity, to ensure universal access. Eg: Provide low-cost broadband plans or free connections for families in the bottom income deciles, where 71.6% lack connectivity.
- Invest in Digital Skill Training: Launch nationwide programs to train youth and adults in essential digital skills. Eg: Government-backed digital literacy missions in rural areas can teach email use, spreadsheet functions, and online banking.
- Promote Inclusive Technology Access for Women and Marginalised Groups: Ensure equal digital access for SCs, STs, OBCs, and women through targeted schemes. Eg: Initiate women-focused mobile usage schemes in rural areas, where only 25.3% of general category women use mobile phones exclusively.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.
Linkage: The article explicitly details the disparities in “broadband Internet facilities” and “mobile or telephone connections” between rural and urban areas, and across different states, caste groups (OBCs, SCs, STs, and General), and income deciles, directly addressing “ICT accessibility. This question directly aligns with the core themes presented in the article.
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Why in the News?
The 2025 G7 Summit in Alberta, Canada, is getting worldwide attention because Donald Trump has returned to the scene.
It’s happening at a time when global tensions are high, especially due to the rising conflict between Israel and Iran and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
What are the main issues discussed at the 2025 G7 Summit in Canada?
- Escalating Iran–Israel Conflict and Nuclear Talks: Negotiations to curb Iran’s nuclear programme and manage fallout from Israel’s June 13 strikes dominated early sessions. Eg: G7 leaders debated sanctions and diplomatic channels to prevent wider Middle-East war.
- Ongoing Russia–Ukraine War: Securing long-term military and financial aid for Ukraine remained central, with President Zelenskyy briefing leaders. Eg: Canada and Europe proposed a fresh aid package, while the U.S. stance under Trump stayed cautious.
- Global Trade Frictions and Tariff Disputes: Rising U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminium and fentanyl-linked goods—and partners’ countermeasures—featured prominently. Eg: Canada pushed for a zero-tariff pact on steel and autos in bilateral talks with the U.S.
- Climate Action, Wildfire Response and Critical Minerals: Leaders issued short joint statements on wildfires, decarbonisation and securing critical mineral supply chains for clean tech. Eg: Australia and Canada showcased joint plans to boost lithium and nickel output for EV batteries.
Why is Trump’s presence seen as influential at the summit?
- Disruptive Diplomatic Style and Past Precedents: Trump’s unpredictable behaviour, seen at the 2018 Quebec G7, influences how leaders prepare for negotiations and outcomes. Eg: In 2018, he left early, refused to sign the joint communique, and insulted then-PM Justin Trudeau.
- Tariff Impositions and Nationalist Policies: His administration’s new tariffs on G7 allies and aggressive trade policies create friction within the bloc. Eg: He imposed fentanyl-related tariffs on Canada and Mexico, accusing them of failing on illegal immigration control.
- Polarising Political Rhetoric: His controversial remarks, such as suggesting Canada become the 51st U.S. state, fuel tensions and affect domestic politics in host nations. Eg: These comments weakened Conservative candidate Pierre Poilievre’s campaign and contributed to Mark Carney’s election win.
What is the impact of the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine conflicts on the G7 agenda?
- Shift in Strategic Focus and Urgency: The escalating Iran-Israel tensions redirected attention from economic to security and defense cooperation among G7 nations. Eg: After Israel’s strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, leaders emphasized the need to restrict Iran’s nuclear ambitionsand prevent wider conflict.
- Unity and Division within the G7: The Russia-Ukraine war exposed divergent views, especially with Trump’s reluctance to support Ukraine, contrasting with NATO allies’ continued backing. Eg: Trump labelled Zelenskyy “ungrateful”, while Canada and Europe reaffirmed their military and diplomatic support to Ukraine.
- Broader Global Message of Deterrence: The inclusion of both conflicts on the agenda highlighted the G7’s role as a global security actor committed to international law and sovereignty. Eg: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s invitation was intended to signal G7’s continued resolve against Russian aggression.
Why is India’s invitation to the G7 significant despite strained Canada-India ties?
- Rebuilding Diplomatic Channels: The invitation marked a thaw in strained relations following the diplomatic row over the Hardeep Singh Nijjar killing allegations. Eg: Canadian PM Mark Carney personally invited PM Narendra Modi, indicating a willingness to resume dialoguedespite unresolved tensions.
- Acknowledgment of India’s Global Role: India’s presence reflected its growing influence in global governance, especially on issues like climate change, trade, and geopolitics. Eg: Including India alongside other key non-member nations like Brazil and South Africa affirmed its importance to G7 strategic objectives.
Way forward:
- Institutionalise High-Level Dialogue: Establish regular diplomatic and law enforcement exchanges between India and Canada to address mutual concerns and rebuild trust while keeping sensitive issues separate from broader strategic cooperation.
- Strengthen Multilateral Collaboration: Leverage platforms like the G7, G20, and UN to deepen cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, critical minerals, and digital governance, showcasing shared interests beyond bilateral disputes.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] What are the ways in which oil pollution affects the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
Linkage: Maritime Accident Response” explicitly talks about the “oil spills” as one of the three major peacetime maritime accidents that the Indian coast needs protection against. It also states that oil is a “more severe fire hazard” than hazardous cargo, especially in the context of gas-carrying merchant ships. This question directly addresses the environmental and national impact of oil pollution, which is a significant aspect of maritime accidents and firefighting efforts.
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Why in the News?
Pune’s Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE) has recently called for a neutral takeover of its parent body, the Servants of India Society (SIS), following allegations of financial irregularities.
About Servants of India Society:
- Founding: It was founded on June 12, 1905, in Pune by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, along with N.A. Dravid, G.K. Devadhar, and A.V. Patwardhan.
- Mission: The Society aimed to train Indians for selfless national service, promote education, and work for social and political reform through constitutional means.
- Core Values: Members took vows of simple living, secularism, and equality across caste and religion.
- Non-political Nature: Though non-political and non-sectarian, many SIS members contributed significantly to the freedom movement.
- Prominent Members: Influential members included V.S. Srinivasa Sastri, Hriday Nath Kunzru, and A.V. Thakkar.
- Major Activities: SIS established schools, ran night classes, supported healthcare, and published The Hitavada since 1911.
- Welfare Work: It actively engaged in disaster relief, women’s and child welfare, and rural development.
- Secular Legacy: It was India’s first secular social reform organisation, focusing on nation-building through service.
- Current Status: Headquartered in Pune, it continues to operate today, though with limited membership, preserving its foundational values.
Gopal Krishna Gokhale (1866-1915):
- Early Life: He was a liberal nationalist, senior Indian National Congress leader, and social reformer.
- Political Journey: He joined the Indian National Congress in 1889 under Justice M.G. Ranade and became Congress President in 1905.
- Institution Building: In 1905, Gokhale founded the Servants of India Society to train dedicated public servants.
- Legislative Work: He served in the Bombay Legislative Council (1899) and the Imperial Legislative Council as a non-official member.
- Reform Advocacy: Gokhale played a major role in securing the Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) and presented India’s economic conditions to the Welby Commission.
- Mentor to Gandhi: Gokhale was a political mentor to Mahatma Gandhi and supported his early work, including funding the Sabarmati Ashram.
- Education and Journalism: He established the Ranade Institute of Economics and launched The Hitavada newspaper (published from Nagpur).
- Philosophy: Gokhale believed in constitutional reform, education, and social justice as the path to Indian self-rule, bridging social reform and political activism.
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| [UPSC 2009] Who among the following rejected the title of knighthood and refused to accept a position in the Council of the Secretary of State for India?
Options: (a) Motilal Nehru (b) M.G. Ranade* (c) G.K. Gokhale (d) B.G. Tilak |
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Why in the News?
A one-day Samyoga event was organised today at the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh, with the participation of experts from 10 states of India.
About Sowa-Rigpa:
- Overview: Sowa-Rigpa, also known as Traditional Tibetan Medicine or the Amchi system, is among the oldest continuously practised medical systems in the world.
- Origin: The term comes from the Bhoti language, meaning “knowledge of healing”, and dates back over 2,000 years.
- Historical Development: It was codified in the 8th century CE during King Trisong Detsen’s reign and further developed in the 12th century.
- Foundational Text: The Gyud-Zi (4 Tantras) integrates ideas from Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, Greek traditions, and Bon and Buddhist philosophy.
- Global Presence: Sowa-Rigpa is practiced in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan, Nepal, and parts of Russia and China.
- Indian Regions: In India, it is common in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul & Spiti), Jammu & Kashmir, and Darjeeling.
- Core Beliefs: The system promotes disease prevention, longevity, and holistic mind-body well-being, viewing the body as a microcosm of nature in harmony with the environment.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Diagnostic Methods: Practitioners use pulse analysis, urine analysis, and detailed observation including case history.
- Therapies Used: Treatments include diet and lifestyle adjustments, herbal medicines, Kunyé massage, moxibustion, acupuncture, and spiritual healing.
- Ayurvedic Influence: About 75% of its theoretical base is derived from Ayurveda, especially the Ashtanga Hridaya.
- Common Herbs: Shared medicinal herbs include Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Guggulu.
Education and Recognition:
- Traditional Training: Knowledge was historically passed through oral traditions, via guru-shishya parampara or family lineages.
- Modern Institutions: The Central Council for Tibetan Medicine oversees education and practice standards.
- National Institute: The National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) in Leh leads in education, research, and policy implementation.
- Government Recognition: Sowa-Rigpa has been officially recognised under AYUSH systems in India since 2010 and is promoted in multiple Himalayan states.
| [UPSC 2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:
Options: (a) anti-malarial drug* (b) biodiesel (c) pulp for paper industry (d) textile fibre |
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Why in the News?
The long-awaited Chamundi Hills development project in Karnataka is finally gaining momentum under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme.
About the PRASHAD Scheme:
- Launch: It was launched in 2014–15 by the Ministry of Tourism.
- Core Objective: It aims to revitalize pilgrimage sites and develop spiritual tourism infrastructure across India.
- Scope and Mission: In 2017, PRASHAD was upgraded to a National Mission, integrating features of the HRIDAY scheme to create a unified heritage and spiritual site development model.
- Cultural Focus: The scheme emphasises cultural preservation, community involvement, and promoting both domestic and international spiritual tourism.
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- Executing Agencies: Projects are executed by state-level agencies appointed by the respective state or union territory governments.
- Funding Model: The scheme offers 100% central financial assistance for eligible infrastructure and development components.
- Public-Private Support: It encourages Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to expand sustainability and local ownership.
- Centre-State Collaboration: Implementation is designed to ensure close cooperation between central and state governments while respecting local cultural and religious traditions.
Key Features:
- Infrastructure Development: Roads, drinking water, sanitation, solid waste management, lighting, and public conveniences at pilgrimage sites.
- Connectivity Enhancement: Improved rail, road, and air links to facilitate easier access for pilgrims.
- Pilgrim Facilities: Creation of accommodation, food courts, wayfinding systems, and security measures for safe and hygienic pilgrimages.
- Cultural Conservation: Restoration of temples, monuments, ghats, and sacred lakes; integration of cultural traditions in tourism.
- Community Empowerment: Skill training for locals, development of tourism-linked jobs, and stakeholder participation in project design and operation.
- Sustainability Focus: Use of eco-friendly technologies, green energy, and promotion of responsible tourism to reduce environmental impact.
| [UPSC 2022] The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
A new study from the University of Plymouth has revealed that over 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened in the last two decades.
What is Ocean Darkening?
- Ocean darkening refers to the reduction in sunlight penetration into the ocean’s upper layers, known as the photic zone (up to 200 meters deep), where sunlight drives photosynthesis and supports marine biodiversity.
- This process is measured using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490), which tracks how quickly light diminishes as it passes through seawater.
- The photic zone is essential for phytoplankton productivity, oxygen generation, marine food chains, and the regulation of global climate.
Recent Report Citing Ocean Darkening:
- A new study by researchers from the University of Plymouth, published in 2024, titled “Darkening of the Global Ocean”, revealed that 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened from 2003 to 2022.
- Key findings:
- 9% of the ocean saw a drop of more than 50 meters in light penetration—equal to the area of Africa.
- 2.6% experienced a loss exceeding 100 meters in photic depth.
- Affected Region: The study found the Arctic, Antarctic, Gulf Stream, and North Sea among the worst affected regions.
- Causes:
- Algal blooms from nutrient runoff in coastal areas.
- Warming seas, altered plankton dynamics, and changing ocean currents in open ocean zones.
Implications of Ocean Darkening:
- Ecosystem Disruption: Light-dependent species, such as Calanus copepods, are being pushed into shallower zones, increasing predation and competition.
- Loss of Habitat: The shrinkage of the photic zone could be one of the largest marine habitat losses ever, affecting fish stocks and biodiversity.
- Climate Feedback Loop: Reduced photosynthesis in oceans could weaken the ocean’s role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production, worsening climate change.
- Threat to Global Fisheries: The contraction of productive zones affects fish populations, jeopardising fisheries and food security.
- Scientific Concern: Researchers warn that this hidden crisis could fundamentally alter marine ecosystems if not urgently addressed.
| [UPSC 2025] With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements:
I. Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans. II. Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of the world’s oxygen. III. Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric air.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) I and II (b) II only * (c) I and III (d) None of the above statements is correct |
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Why in the News?
India advanced its indigenous defence tech with SDAL’s successful trial of the Hybrid VTOL UAV Rudrastra at Pokhran.
About Rudrastra:
- Rudrastra is an indigenously developed Hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV built by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL).
- The UAV is engineered for deep-strike capabilities, capable of carrying out precision missions without endangering human soldiers.
- It is tailored for anti-personnel roles, with airburst munitions designed to strike targets across hostile borders.
- Rudrastra blends rotor-based vertical lift with fixed-wing cruise capability, enhancing deployment across diverse terrains.
- It is considered a “stand-off” weapon, enabling missions deep into enemy territory with autonomous return capability.
Key Features:
- Hybrid VTOL Design: Can vertically take off and land like a helicopter and cruise like a fixed-wing aircraft, enhancing flexibility.
- Extended Range: Demonstrated a total mission range of over 170 km, including loiter time over the target.
- Real-Time Surveillance: Maintained a stable video link while covering a 50+ km mission radius.
- Precision Strike Capability: Successfully deployed airburst munitions, effective for area damage and anti-personnel use.
- Endurance: Achieved a flight endurance of 1.5 hours, ideal for extended ISR or strike operations.
- Autonomous Navigation: Returned independently to the launch site after completing the mission.
- Made in India: Fully developed by an Indian defence company, supporting indigenous innovation in combat drones.
| [UPSC 2025] With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements:
I. All types of UAVs can do vertical landing. II. All types of UAVs can do automated hovering. III. All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the three (d) None* |
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Why in the News?
A recent study confirms that Arabia wasn’t always a desert wall but occasionally a green bridge between continents.
About the Green Arabia Hypothesis:
- Core Idea: It suggests that the Arabian Peninsula, now one of the driest places on Earth, experienced multiple humid phases over the past 8 million years, turning it into a green corridor for early migrations.
- Challenge to Old Views: This theory challenges traditional models that excluded Arabia from early human dispersal routes in the ‘Out of Africa’ narrative.
- Fossil Evidence: The discovery of fossils of crocodiles, hippos, and horses, dating up to 74,000 years ago, supports the claim that Arabia was once lush and habitable.
Key Discoveries and Methods:
- Archaeological Sites: Over 10,000 ancient lakebeds and sites over 500,000 years old were found, confirming Arabia’s role as a migration bridge between Africa and Eurasia.
- Speleothem Analysis: 22 speleothem samples (mineral deposits formed within caves) from seven Saudi caves indicated humid phases between 7.44 million and 60,000 years ago.
- Dating Techniques: Scientists used uranium-thorium dating to accurately time wet periods, revealing patterns linked to monsoon shifts and glacial cycles.
- Environmental Impact: These wet intervals, though brief, supported vegetation, biodiversity, and water bodies, enabling human and animal settlements.
Significance of the Study:
- Biogeographic Role: Arabia is now viewed as a climate-sensitive migratory bridge, not a barrier, in human evolution and dispersal.
- Climate Dependency: Human movement was influenced not just by geography, but by shifts in rainfall patterns and monsoonal activity.
- Key Locations: Sites like Jubbah Oasis provided stone tools and lakebed evidence, validating early human habitation in the region.
- Conclusion: Arabia’s periodic greening played a decisive role in early human migration, revising our understanding of ancient dispersal pathways out of Africa.
| [UPSC 2014] Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?
1. Continental drift
2. Glacial cycles Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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