Why in the News?
- Scientists recently observed an unexpected large gathering of walruses on the remote shores of Svalbard, indicating shifting wildlife behaviour in the Arctic due to changing climatic conditions.
About SvalbardÂ
Location
- A Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean.
- Lies between mainland Norway and the North Pole (about halfway).
- Northernmost permanent human settlement in the world.
Discovery & Status
- Discovered by Willem Barentsz (Dutch explorer) in 1596.
- Svalbard Treaty (1920) â established Norwegian sovereignty.
Geography
- ~60% glacier-covered; marked by mountains, fjords.
- Surrounding seas:
- Arctic Ocean, Greenland Sea, Norwegian Sea.
| Consider the following countries: (2014)
1. DenmarkÂ
2. JapanÂ
3. Russian FederationÂ
4. United KingdomÂ
5. United States of AmericaÂ
Which of the above are the members of the âArctic Councilâ?Â
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 3 and 5 only |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
- The Prime Minister of India recently mentioned the Khiamniungan tribe of Nagaland in his Mann Ki Baat episode, highlighting their traditional practice of cliff-honey hunting and rich cultural heritage.
About the Khiamniungan Tribe
- One of the major Naga tribes inhabiting both:
- Eastern Nagaland (India)
- North-Western Myanmar
- Their homeland lies along the Indo-Myanmar border.
- The term âKhiamniunganâ means âsource of great water/riverâ.
- Language: Khiamniugan, a Sino-Tibetan Naga language.
- Social Structure: Traditionally based on a clan system.
Festivals
- Tsokum Sumai: Celebrated in Septemberâearly October.
- Purpose: Invoke blessings for a rich harvest.
- Khaotzao Sey Hok-ah Sumai: Marks the end of agricultural activities for the year.
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture is the primary occupation.
- Traditionally practiced jhum cultivation.
- Renowned for cliff-honey hunting, practiced for centuries.
| Consider the following pairs: Tribe State (2013)
(1). Limboo (Limbu) : SikkimÂ
(2). Karbi : Himachal PradeshÂ
(3). Dongaria Kondh : OdishaÂ
(4). Bonda : Tamil NaduÂ
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?Â
(a) 1 and 3 onlyÂ
(b) 2 and 4 onlyÂ
(c) 1, 3 and 4 onlyÂ
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
In the 128th episode of âMann Ki Baatâ, the Prime Minister highlighted Ramban Sulai Honey from Jammu & Kashmir, noting that the product has gained national recognition after receiving a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2021.
Origin
- Produced in Ramban District, Jammu & Kashmir.
- Derived from Sulai (wild basil) plants growing naturally in the Himalayan region.
Distinct Features
- Taste & Aroma: Naturally sweet with aromatic floral undertones.
- Colour: Crystal-clear; ranges from white to amber.
- Season of Production: Bees forage on snow-white Sulai blossoms from August to October.
- Nutritional Profile: Rich in enzymes, vitamins, and essential minerals.
- Medicinal Value: Known for high purity and therapeutic benefits.
- Superior bee strains native to the region.
- Ideal climatic conditions, giving higher yields than other honey-producing areas of India.
- Recognised as the districtâs One District, One Product (ODOP).
What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?
A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that: Originate from a specific geographical region, and Possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics exclusive to that region.
Key Points
- GI is a type of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).
- Recognized under: Paris Convention and TRIPS Agreement (WTO)
Indian Legal Framework
- Governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
- Key provisions:
- Prevents unauthorized use of GI-tagged names.
- Valid for 10 years, but can be renewed indefinitely.
- Provides legal protection and helps preserve traditional knowledge.
|
| India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2018)
(a) ILOÂ
(b) IMFÂ
(c) UNCTADÂ
(d) WTO |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
A new damselfly species, Protosticta sooryaprakashi, commonly called the Kodagu Shadowdamsel, has been discovered in the Western Ghats, Karnataka. The finding underscores the rich but still understudied biodiversity of the region.
Species Details
- Common Name: Kodagu Shadowdamsel
- Scientific Name: Protosticta sooryaprakashi
- Family: Platystictidae (Shadowdamsels)
Discovery Location
- Found along the Sampaje River banks (Kodagu District)
- Also observed in Agumbe high-altitude forests
- Habitat: Shaded, riparian vegetation in the Western Ghats
Distinctive Features
- Males show a sky-blue marking on the prothorax (behind the head).
- Body: Dark brown to black, unlike the crimson thorax of the related Protosticta sanguinostigma.
- Unique genital ligula: Tip shaped like a duckâs head (important taxonomic marker).
- Smaller, more delicate, with weak fluttering flight.
| In which of the following states is the lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat? (2013)
1. Tamil NaduÂ
2. KeralaÂ
3. KarnatakaÂ
4. Andhra PradeshÂ
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.Â
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
- Taragiri, the fourth Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) indigenous stealth frigate, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 28 Nov 2025 by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), Mumbai.
About Taragiri (Yard 12653)
- Third P17A ship built by MDL.
- Named after the erstwhile INS Taragiri (Leander-class), which served 1980â2013.
- Represents major strides in Aatmanirbhar Bharat, with 75% indigenous content.
- Over 200 MSMEs involved; employment generated:
- ~4,000 direct, 10,000+ indirect.
Project 17A (P-17A)Â
- Follow-on of P17 Shivalik-class frigates.
- Total ships: 7
- Aim: Advanced stealth, multi-mission, blue-water capability.
| With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2014)
1. It is surface-to-surface missile.Â
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.Â
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500km away.Â
Select the correct answer using the code given below:Â
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
 Why in the News?
- Key tests for Samudrayaan, Indiaâs first manned deep-ocean submersible, have been delayed due to the late procurement of syntactic foam cladding from France. The crucial 500-metre test dive is now expected by mid-2025 (around April).
What is syntactic foam?Â
- A special composite material made of hollow micro-balloons embedded in resin. Provides high buoyancy & resistance to extreme pressure â essential for deep-sea vehicles.
About Samudrayaan
- Part of Indiaâs Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
- Developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai.
- Aim: Conduct manned exploration of deep-sea resources and collect soil & rock samples from the ocean floor.
Features of the Manned Submersible (MATSYA-6000)
- Capacity: 3 persons
- Maximum Depth: 6,000 metres
- Hull Material: Titanium sphere (final version)
- Buoyancy: Achieved using syntactic foam
- Purpose:
- Deep-sea mineral exploration
- Study of polymetallic nodules
- Geological and biological sample collection
Depth Significance
- Only a few countries (USA, Russia, China, Japan, France) have undertaken comparable manned dives.
| The term âIndARCâ, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of (2015)
(a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian DefenceÂ
(b) Indiaâs satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean RimÂ
(c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antartic regionÂ
(d) Indiaâs underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
A Rustic Bunting (Emberiza rustica) â a rare migratory passerine bird â was spotted for the first time in the National Capital Region (NCR) at Najafgarh Jheel (DelhiâGurugram border) on 28 November 2025.
About Rustic Bunting (Emberiza rustica)
General Features
- Passerine bird, slightly larger than a sparrow.
- Distinctive markings:
- Males: black head + reddish breast band
- Females: reddish flank streaks
Breeding Range
- Breeds across the northern Palearctic region.
- Prefers wet coniferous woodlands.
Migration Pattern
- Winters in SE Asia & East Asia (Japan, Korea, eastern China).
- Shows altitudinal migration.
- Extremely rare visitor to India; usually recorded only in:
- Northeast India
- Himalayan belt (Ladakh, Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh)
Status in India
-
- Very few sightings historically: Ladakh (2023, 2024), Arunachal Pradesh (2025), Kashmir (2022) and Jammu & Kashmirâs Kangan (2022 â fifth record for India).
- First Ever Record for Delhi NCR
-
- Sighted at Najafgarh Jheel, confirming its first occurrence within a 100 sq km NCR radius.
IUCN Status
- 2025 IUCN Red List:
- Status changed from Vulnerable â Near Threatened
- Reason: Decline has slowed down over the last decade.
|
| Consider the following: (2014)
1. BatsÂ
2. BearsÂ
3. RodentsÂ
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?Â
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
 Why in the News?
India on 28 November 2025 signed a âš7,995-crore follow-on support package with the United States for the Indian Navyâs fleet of 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The deal comes amid recent tensions after the U.S. imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods.
Key Highlights of the Deal
- Signed under: U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme.
- Documents signed: Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs).
- Duration: 5 years.
- Purpose: Long-term sustainment support for MH-60R helicopters.
What the Sustainment Package Includes
- Provisioning of spares, support equipment, training, technical support.
- Repair and replenishment of components.
- Setting up of intermediate-level component repair and periodic maintenance inspection facilities in India.
- Improved operational availability and maintainability of the fleet.
About MH-60R Seahawk
- Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin.
- Type: Maritime variant of the Black Hawk helicopter.
- Features:
- All-weather capability
- Advanced avionics and sensors
- Multi-mission: ASW, anti-surface warfare, surveillance, search & rescue, logistics.
|
| Consider the following statements: (2009)
1. INS Sindhughosh is an aircraft carrier.Â
2. INS Viraat is a submarine.Â
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?Â
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
Indiaâs GDP grew 8.2% in Q2 of FY 2025-26 (JulyâSeptember), marking a six-quarter high, supported mainly by manufacturing and services.
However, economists flagged concerns over low nominal GDP growth (8.7%), which signals subdued economic activity and potential stress on fiscal targets.
Key Data
- Real GDP growth (Q2 FY26): 8.2%
- Real GDP growth (Q1 FY26): 7.8%
- Growth in H1 FY26: 8%
- Nominal GDP growth: 8.7% (vs Budget assumption of 10.1%)
- Last higher GDP growth: Q4 FY24
- Government revised full-year growth forecast: â7% or higherâ
Why High Real but Low Nominal Growth?
- Nominal GDP = Real GDP + Inflation (GDP deflator)
- A very low deflator (~0.5%) boosted real growth artificially
- Indicates inflation in tradable/manufactured goods is low, not necessarily high economic momentum
- Low nominal growth â Lower tax revenues, harder to meet fiscal deficit target of 4.4%
Sector-wise Performance
1. Manufacturing
- Growth: 9.1% (six-quarter high)
- Reasons:
- Corporate earnings showed strong growth
- Low base effect (growth was only 2.1% last year)
2. Services
- Growth: 9.2%
- Within services:
- Financial, real estate, professional services: 10.2% (nine-quarter high)
- Public admin, defence & other services: 9.7%
3. Agriculture
- 3.5% (lower than 4.1% last year)
- Slight moderation due to uneven monsoon patterns
Fiscal Concerns
- Nominal GDP shortfall may:
- Reduce tax buoyancy
- Pressure fiscal deficit (target: 4.4%)
- Lower denominator for deficit calculation
- Lower capital expenditure visible (âno upswing in GFCFâ)
Opposition Criticism
- IMF recently rated Indiaâs national accounts âCâ, the second-lowest grade
- Claims real GDP inflated using unrealistically low deflator
- Points to weak private investment and thin capital formation
| With reference to Indian economy, consider the following statements : (2015)
(1) The rate of growth of Real Gross Domestic product has steadily increased in the last decade.Â
(2) The Gross Domestic product at market prices (in rupees) has steadily increased in the last decade.Â
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?Â
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2Â |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
The Government of India approved a new scheme called Tex-RAMPS to strengthen research, data systems, innovation, and competitiveness in Indiaâs textiles sector.
The scheme aligns with Indiaâs push to make its textiles ecosystem future-ready, technologically advanced, and globally competitive.
What is Tex-RAMPS?
Tex-RAMPS = Textiles Focused Research, Assessment, Monitoring, Planning and Start-up Scheme. It is a Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Ministry of Textiles.
Outlay & Duration
- Total Outlay: âš305 crore
- Period: FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31
- Co-terminus with the upcoming Finance Commission cycle
Objectives
To future-proof Indiaâs textiles & apparel (T&A) ecosystem by:
- Strengthening research and innovation
- Building robust data systems
- Enhancing global competitiveness
- Supporting start-ups
- Improving capacity development across the sector
| Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (2019)
(a) Department of Science and TechnologyÂ
(b) Ministry of EmploymentÂ
(c) NITI AayogÂ
(d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
A study published in Nature (Nov 2025) found that grey seal milk contains 332 different oligosaccharidesâ33% more than human breast milk, previously considered the most complex.
Key Findings
Highest Oligosaccharide Diversity
- Grey seal milk contains 332 oligosaccharides
(Human milk: ~100).
- This is the largest number ever recorded in any mammalâs milk.
Functions of Oligosaccharides
- Boost immunity (protect against bacteria & viruses).
- Support gut microbiome formation.
- Aid digestive tract development.
- Provide energy and growth support for pups.
|
Why Grey Seal Milk is So Complex?
- Grey seals:
- Live in harsh, high-risk environments.
- Mothers fast for ~18 days while feeding pups.
- Pups grow extremely rapidly during this period.
- Complex sugars help pups survive extreme conditions and develop strong immunity quickly.
Study Details
- Conducted by the University of Gothenburg (Sweden).
- Samples collected from Atlantic grey seals on a small Scottish island.
- Analytical method used: Deep mass spectrometry.
- A very advanced method of mass spectrometry that can detect hundreds to thousands of molecules in a sample with very high accuracy.
| Consider the following:Â
1. BatsÂ
2. BearsÂ
3. RodentsÂ
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?Â
(a) 1 and 2 onlyÂ
(b) 2 onlyÂ
(c) 1, 2 and 3 onlyÂ
(d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above
This PYQ is chosen because it directly addresses the peculiar biological feature (hibernation) that allows mammals to survive challenging environmental conditions, which conceptually mirrors the adaptive features of the grey seal |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
A new study (Current Pharmaceutical Analysis, 2025) suggests that common plant molecules from Aloe veraâespecially Beta sitosterolâmay inhibit key enzymes associated with Alzheimerâs disease (AD). Findings are based entirely on in silico (computer simulation) techniques.
What is Computer Simulation (In Silico Research)?
- Computer simulation, often called in silico research, refers to the use of computational tools and algorithms to model biological, chemical, or physical processes.
- It allows scientists to predict molecular interactions, drug behavior, and biological outcomes without physical experiments.
|
Alzheimerâs Disease (AD)Â
- Most common form of dementia.
- Characterised by:
- Memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles
- Loss of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter linked to learning and memory.
- Enzymes involved in acetylcholine breakdown:
- Acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
- Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)
- Current drugs (e.g., donepezil, rivastigmine) work by inhibiting these enzymes but do not stop disease progression.
Why Aloe vera?
- Used for 3000+ years in traditional medicine.
- Contains bioactive compounds such as Beta sitosterol, Succinic acid, polysaccharides, and phenolics.
Major Findings
- Beta sitosterol showed strong binding affinity to both enzymes:
- AChE: â8.6 kcal/mol
- BChE: â8.7 kcal/mol
- The binding strength is higher than that of other screened compounds like Succinic acid.
- ADMET results suggest:
- Good absorption
- Low toxicity
- Favourable pharmacokinetic profile
| Which one of the following is the context in which the term âqubitâ is mentioned? (2022)
(a) Cloud ServicesÂ
(b) Quantum ComputingÂ
(c) Visible Light Communication TechnologiesÂ
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies
This PYQ is chosen because it tests a fundamental concept related to the cutting edge of computational power and modelling, which is the operational domain of computer simulation. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
According to a study published in CanadÂian Family Physician, Vitamin B12 deficiency often shows early dermatological symptomsâsuch as pigmentation, dryness, and inflammationâbefore neurological or hematological complications appear.
What is Vitamin B12?
- Water-soluble vitamins are essential for: Red blood cell formation, Nerve function, DNA synthesis and Cell growth and repair
Why Skin Shows Early Signs?
- B12 deficiency â reduced RBC production â low oxygen delivery to skin â visible skin changes.
- Weak immunity and impaired nerve function further worsen dermatological issues.
| High-Risk Groups
More prone to Vitamin B12 deficiency:
- Vegetarians/vegans
- Adults > 50 years
- Individuals with:
- Gastritis, Crohnâs disease, celiac disease
- Those taking:
- Antacids (PPIs/H2 blockers)
- Metformin
- People with poor nutrient absorption
|
| Consider the following pairs: Vitamin : Deficiency disease (2014)
1. Vitamin C : ScurvyÂ
2. Vitamin D : RicketsÂ
3. Vitamin E : Night BlindnessÂ
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?Â
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) None |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
- A 3.5-billion-year-old Martian crater has been named after Indian geologist M.S. Krishnan. The naming was approved by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
- Several other names proposed by Kerala scientists for Martian landforms were also approved.
About the Martian Crater
- Estimated to be 3.5 billion years old, dating back to Marsâ early geological history.
- Located in a region studied for traces of ancient water and habitability.
Who Was M.S. Krishnan?
- Full name: Maharajapuram Seetharaman Krishnan
- One of Indiaâs most influential geologists, known as a foundational figure in modern Indian geological studies.
- Served as Director, Geological Survey of India (GSI) (1950â1956).
Major Contributions
- Mapped Indiaâs geological structures, including:
- Indian stratigraphy
- Peninsular shield
- Himalayan formations
- Played a leading role in mineral exploration and petroleum geology in India.
- Contributed to studies on:
- Gondwana formations
- Economic geology
- Earth resources of India
Famous Work
- Author of the landmark textbook âGeology of India and Burmaâ, a globally referenced work in earth sciences.
|
About the International Astronomical Union (IAU)
- Founded: 1919
- A senior international body that governs professional astronomical activities worldwide.
- Mission: Promote and safeguard astronomy through research, communication, education, development, and international cooperation.
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- India is a member of itÂ
| What is the purpose of âevolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (ELISA)â project? (2017)
(a) To detect neutrinosÂ
(b) To detect gravitational wavesÂ
(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence systemÂ
(d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems
This PYQ is selected because it directly tests knowledge of a major international scientific venture in the field of astronomy/cosmology, which is conceptually linked to the mandate of the IAU |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?Â
At the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the growing importance of the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) Programme and Indiaâs rising biotech innovation ecosystem.
Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) Programme
- It is one of the programmes launched under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI).
- A Government of India initiative to bridge the gap between research and enterprise.
- Encourages young scientists, innovators, and researchers to become scientist-entrepreneurs.
- Helps convert lab research â market-ready innovations.
About BRIC
- Established: 2023
- Type: Pan-India umbrella network of biotechnology research institutions.
- First major experiment in merging multiple institutes under one collaborative body.
- Ranked as Indiaâs top organization in biological sciences research (Nature Index India 2025).
| Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding National Innovation Foundation India (NIF)? (2015)
(1) NIF is an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology under the Central Government.Â
(2) NIF is an initiative to strengthen the highly advanced scientific research in Indiaâs premier scientific institution in collaboration with highly advanced foreign scientific institution.Â
Select the correct answer using the code given below.Â
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
- On 23 November 2025, Israel approved a major plan to bring all remaining 5,800 members of the Bnei Menashe Jewish community from Northeast India by 2030.
- This marks a significant step in the decades-long Aliyah (immigration to Israel) process.
Who are the Bnei Menashe?
- Indigenous community from Manipur and Mizoram.
- Claim descent from Menashe (Manasseh), one of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel exiled by the Assyrian Empire ~2,700 years ago.
- Faced historical disputes over their Jewish identity.
- In 2005, Rabbi Shlomo Amar, the then Sephardi Chief Rabbi of Israel, formally recognised them as âdescendants of Israelâ, enabling immigration.
| In India, if a religious sect/community is given âthe status of a national minority, what special advantages is it entitled to? (2011)
1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.Â
2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.Â
3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Ministerâs 15-Point Programme.Â
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?Â
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
- A Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes), a bird species native to Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia, was recorded on 23 November in the Dhela zone of Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand. This is considered a vagrant bird sighting.
About Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes)
- Family: Fringillidae (Finches)
- Size: ~18 cm
- Wingspan: 29â33 cm
- Distinctive Feature: Very powerful, heavy bill capable of cracking extremely hard seeds/nuts.
- Plumage: Males and females similar; males slightly darker.
Native Range
- Europe and North Africa
- Temperate Asia, including:
- Not native to India.
Status in India
- Sighting classified as a vagrant recordâbird appears outside its usual distribution range.
- Only two previous records in the Indian subcontinent:
- Muzaffarabad (1908) â PoK
- Aliabad (2017) â PoK
- This is one of the very few confirmed sightings.
| Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in the news? (2018)Â
(a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.Â
(b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows
(c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides
(d) None of the above
This question tests the critical concept of non-native or exotic species impacting biodiversity, which is the implicit environmental concern raised by the Hawfinch sighting. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?
- Karnataka has decided to submit a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Mekedatu balancing reservoir across the Cauvery River.
- The Supreme Court termed Tamil Naduâs challenge as âprematureâ, enabling the CWMA and CWC to examine the project.
Location & River
- Mekedatu is located in Ramanagara district, ~100 km from Bengaluru.
- The project is proposed on the inter-State Cauvery river.
- Karnataka = upper riparian; Tamil Nadu = lower riparian.
Why Does Karnataka Want It?
- Bengaluru water demand:
- Present: 2,600 MLD
- Supply: 2,100 MLD â shortage of 500 MLD
- Population to reach 20 million in 6 years â demand may rise to 4,000 MLD.
- Shivakumar argues Mekedatu will ensure regulated release to Tamil Nadu, even in poor rainfall years.
Why Is Tamil Nadu Opposed?
- Trust deficit due to the history of Cauvery disputes.
- Concern: Karnataka may store more water and release it selectively.
- TN argues the project violates the 2018 SC judgment and Cauvery Tribunalâs final award.
Centreâs Position
- 2019: Karnataka submitted DPR â CWC â CWMA.
- MoEFCC (2019): Sought an âamicable solutionâ due to inter-State dispute.
- 2024 (Feb): CWMA referred DPR back to CWC after deliberations.
- Now: DPR to be examined afresh; CWMA/CWC can facilitate dialogue.
Constitutional & Legal Angle
- Inter-State Rivers: Union List Entry 56 â regulation and development of inter-State rivers.
- River Boards Act, 1956 (not effectively implemented).
- Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT): Award notified in February 2013.
- Supreme Court Judgment (2018):
- Reallocated shares;
- Gave 4.75 TMC drinking water allocation to Bengaluru.
|
| Recently, linking of which of the following rivers was undertaken? (2016)
(a) Cauvery and TungabhadraÂ
(b) Godavari and KrishnaÂ
(c) Mahanadi and SonÂ
(d) Narmada and Tapti |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the news?Â
- The Bastar Olympics is a government-led sporting initiative in Chhattisgarhâs Bastar region, an area historically affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE).
- It has become a symbol of normalisation, trust-building, and socio-cultural revival as Maoist influence recedes.
What are the Bastar Olympics?
- A regional multi-sport event launched by the Chhattisgarh government.
- Conducted across all 7 districts of the Bastar region:
- Bastar, Dantewada, Kanker, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Sukma, Bijapur.
- Includes 11 sports:
Archery, Kabaddi, Athletics, Badminton, Football, Hockey, Karate, Weightlifting, Kho-Kho, Volleyball, Tug-of-war.
Prelims-Relevant Themes Emerging
- Internal Security: Platform for reducing alienation in LWE regions.
- Social Issues: Womenâs participation & empowerment.
- Tribal Affairs: Inclusion of PVTGs, revival of cultural identity.
- Governance: Last-mile delivery and state presence in remote areas.
- Sports & Youth: Identification of rural sporting talent.
|
| Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:Â
1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.Â
2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.Â
3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.Â
4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.Â
Which of the statements given above are correct?Â
(a) 1, 2 and 3Â
(b) 2, 3 and 4Â
(c) 1, 2 and 4Â
(d) 1, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Why in the News?
A new survey in 2025 shows that nearly 70% of corals in Australiaâs UNESCO World Heritageâlisted Ningaloo Reef have died due to the most intense and prolonged marine heatwave on record.
About Ningaloo Reef Â
- Located in Western Australia.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- One of the largest fringing reefs in the world (~260 km long).
- Important for marine biodiversity, supporting whale sharks, turtles, reef sharks, and diverse coral species.
Extent of Coral Mortality
- ~70% mortality recorded in latest survey.
- In eight northern lagoon sites (Osprey â Tantabiddi Sanctuary Zones), mortality >60%.
- Of 1,600+ corals assessed in March, only ~600 survived by October.
Species Impact
-
Highly Affected (Dominant Species Lost)
-
-
- Staghorn corals: Acropora tenuis, Acropora millepora and Acropora spicifera
- Thin birdsnest coral (Seriatopora hystrix).
-
- Veronâs tube coral (Echinopora ashmorensis)
- Lesser knob coral (Cyphastrea microphthalma)
- Structural decline:
- Dead corals now overgrown by sponges, turf algae, reducing reef stability & biodiversity.
Broader Ecological Significance
- Coral reefs support ~1/3 of global marine species.
- Mass mortality compromises: Fish breeding grounds, Shelter for marine organisms, Coastal protection and Tourism & local economies.
Widespread Global Coral Stress
According to the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):
- 84.4% of the worldâs reef areas experienced bleaching-level heat stress (Jan 2023âSept 2025).
- Mass bleaching in 83+ countries.
- Marine heatwaves in 2023 lasted 4Ă longer than the long-term average and affected 96% of the world’s oceans.
| The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 â C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3 â C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?Â
1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.Â
2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.Â
3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear.Â
4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world.Â
Select the correct answer using the code given below:Â
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
