Why in the News?
The Supreme Court for the very first time has recounted EVM votes on its premises and overturned a Haryana sarpanch election result.
Legal Framework for Challenging Election Results:
- Parliamentary, Assembly, State Council elections: Validity can be challenged by filing an election petition in the High Court of the state where the election was held.
- Local government elections: Petitions must be filed at district-level civil courts.
- Eligibility to file: Only a candidate or elector related to the election can file.
- Timeframe: Petition must be filed within 45 days of result declaration.
- Petition requirements:
- Must contain concise statement of material facts.
- Allegations of âcorrupt practicesâ must include names of individuals, dates, and locations.
- Judicial Approach:
- SC considers corrupt practices as quasi-criminal, requiring high standard of proof.
- Vague or ambiguous petitions are dismissed.
-
- Representation of the People Act, 1951.
- State Panchayat Raj Acts.
Grounds for Invalidating an Election:
Courts can void an election on:
- Bribery or undue influence, e.g., hiding criminal antecedents or promoting enmity.
- Candidate disqualified/unqualified on the election date.
- Improper rejection of nomination paper.
- Improper acceptance of nomination or improper reception/rejection of votes, if shown to materially affect results.
- Non-compliance with Constitution or election laws/rules, if it materially impacted the outcome.
When can Courts order Recount of Votes?
- A recount is a possible judicial remedy but not granted lightly.
- Seen as affecting vote secrecy, which is vital to free and fair elections.
- Courts order recounts only if:
- Petitioner presents specific material facts.
- Evidence shows a prima facie case of probable counting error.
- Recount is deemed necessary for justice.
- Normally conducted at election location.
- Exception: Panipat case, where SC recounted votes in its own premises.
Can Courts declare a new Winner?
- Rare, but courts can declare a new winner if:
- Evidence shows petitioner (or another candidate) actually had majority of valid votes.
- Or petitioner proves they would have won but for votes gained through corrupt practices.
- Requires concrete, quantifiable evidence of tainted votes.
- Example: In Feb 2024 Chandigarh mayoral election, SC declared a new winner after:
- Presiding officer wrongly invalidated 8 paper ballots.
- All votes had been cast for the losing candidate.
- SC restored them as valid, making the losing candidate the winner.
| [UPSC 2004] Consider the following tasks:
1. Superintendence, direction and conduct of free and fair elections.
2. Preparation of electoral rolls for all elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures and the Office of the President and the Vice-President.
3. Giving recognition to political parties and allotting election symbols to political parties and individuals contesting the election.
4. Proclamation of final verdict in the case of election disputes.
Which of the above are the functions of the Election Commission of India?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3* (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in âThe Hinduâ.
About Soap:
- Composition: Soap is sodium (Na) or potassium (K) salt of fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats.
- Formula: Solid soaps are RCOONa, liquid soaps are RCOOK.
- Function: Cleansing agent due to dual hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (oil-attracting) nature.
- History: Used since 2800 BC in Mesopotamia and ancient India (soap nuts, bark, flowers). Became mass-produced during the Industrial Revolution, initially a luxury.
Soap-Making Process
- Raw Materials: Oils such as coconut, olive, palm, sunflower provide triglycerides.
- Hydrolysis: Oils hydrolysed with hot water under pressure â fatty acids + glycerin.
- Saponification: Fatty acids react with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) â soap (RCOONa) + water.
- Processing: Soap dried into noodles, blended with perfumes, colours, fillers, additives.
- Shaping: Extruded, cut, and stamped into bars.
- Quality: Total Fatty Matter (TFM) indicates quality; higher TFM = better cleansing.
- Production Scale: Modern automated lines make 600â700 soaps per minute.
Ecological Impact of Soap
- Biodegradability: Traditional soaps are biodegradable and safer for the environment.
- Detergents: Synthetic alternatives developed during World War I oil shortages; more efficient but harmful.
- Pollution: Surfactants and phosphates in detergents cause nutrient pollution and persist in ecosystems.
| [UPSC 2002] Consider the following statements:
Assertion (A) Synthetic detergents can lather well in hard water.
Reason (R): Synthetic detergents form soluble calcium and magnesium salts with hard water.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Options:
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A *
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not a correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true |
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Why in the News?
Keralaâs health department has issued an alert in Kozhikode district after three consecutive cases of the rare and highly fatal disease Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) were reported.
About Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM):
- Cause: Rare and usually fatal infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, known as the âbrain-eating amoeba.â
- Habitat: Thrives in warm freshwater up to 46°C (115°F).
- Entry: Enters through the nose during swimming or water activities, travels via olfactory nerve to the brain.
- Impact: Destroys brain tissue and causes severe swelling.
- Transmission: Not communicable from person to person.
- Symptoms: Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, coma, and death.
- Progression: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most cases result in death within 1â18 days of symptom onset.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Diagnosis:
- Treatment:
- No single therapy effectively established.
- Managed per CDC guidelines using drug combinations such as: Medical interventions typically involve a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.
| [UPSC 2008] Consider the following statements:
1. Femur is the longest bone in the human body.
2. Cholera is a disease caused by bacteria.
3. âAthleteâs footâ is a disease caused by virus. Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 * (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Researchers from UK and China have developed a bioelectronic device where genetically engineered E. Coli bacteria act as self-powered chemical bio-sensor.
About Escherichia coli (E. coli) Bacteria:
- Overview: Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that inhabits the lower intestine of warm-blooded animals.
- Family: Belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family.
- Harmless vs Pathogenic: Most strains are harmless, but some (e.g., E. coli O157:H7) cause severe foodborne illness, diarrhoea, and kidney complications.
- Gut Role: Contributes to vitamin Kâ synthesis and maintains gut microbiota balance.
- Transmission: Pathogenic strains spread via contaminated food, water, or direct contact, leading to outbreaks.
- Diagnostic Importance: Presence in water is a key indicator of faecal contamination.
Bio-Sensors Generated Using E. coli
- Innovation: Genetically engineered E. coli used as self-powered chemical biosensors.
- Mechanism: Detect compounds, process signals, and produce electrical outputs compatible with low-cost electronics.
- Modules:
- Sensing Module: Detects target molecules.
- Processing Module: Amplifies or modifies signals.
- Output Module: Produces phenazines measurable via electrochemistry.
- Applications:
- Detected arabinose (plant sugar) within 2 hours.
- Detected mercury ions in water at trace levels (below WHO safety limits) within 3 hours.
- Demonstrated an âANDâ logic gate, producing signals only when two molecules were present together.
- Significance:
- Cheaper, programmable, and robust alternative to enzyme-based biosensors.
- Potential in environmental monitoring, water safety, medical diagnostics, and bioelectronics.
| [UPSC 2010] Which bacterial strain, developed from natural isolated by genetic manipulations, can be used for treating oil spills?
(a) Agrodbacterium
(b) Clostridium
(c) Nitrosomonas
(d) Pseudomonas* |
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Why in the News?
The Gugga Naumi festival was widely celebrated across northern states of India on 17th August.
About Gugga Naumi Festival:
- Festival: Folk religious celebration in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and northern states.
- Timing: Observed on the ninth day of Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapad month, usually after Janmashtami.
- Deity: Dedicated to Gugga (Gugga Pir / Gugga Zahir Pir / Guaaji), a Chauhan Rajput prince believed to control snakes.
- Tradition: Reflects syncretic worship by Hindus and Muslims, showcasing folk religiosity beyond formal religion.
Key Features:
- Duration: Begins on Rakhi and lasts nine days, with pilgrimages to Gugga Medi village in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan.
- Rituals: Garudas (snake charmers and healers) carry Gugga Pirâs Chahad (standard).
- Devotion: Pir ke Sole (songs) sung, fairs organised at shrines (Marhis).
- Depiction: Gugga shown riding a blue horse, with blue and yellow flags.
- Belief: Worshipped by mothers for childrenâs health, and by barren women for fertility blessings.
| [UPSC 2018] Consider the following pairs: Tradition State
1. Chapchar Kut festival â Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba ballad â Manipur
3. Thong-To dance â Sikkim
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2* (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Recently, Chinese scientists identified a key gene, Chalk9, that controls chalkiness in rice, offering a breakthrough for crop improvement.
About Chalk9 Gene in Rice:
- Overview: Chalk9 is a gene found on chromosome 9 of rice.
- Function: Encodes the enzyme E3 ubiquitin ligase, which regulates protein degradation.
- Target Protein: Acts on OsEBP89, a regulator of starch-synthesis genes Wx and SSP.
- Chalk9-L Variant: Promotes OsEBP89 degradation â prevents excess starch accumulation â results in low chalkiness and translucent grains.
- Chalk9-H Variant: Fails to degrade OsEBP89 efficiently â leads to starch buildup â high chalkiness and brittle grains.
Significance:
- Grain Quality: Chalkiness lowers milling recovery and reduces riceâs commercial value.
- Genetic Solution: Discovery of Chalk9 offers a direct genetic tool to reduce chalkiness.
- Breeding Advantage: Rice breeding programs can introduce Chalk9-L to produce premium low-chalk rice.
- Economic Impact: Improves farmer income and enhances food security.
- Consumer Preference: Meets demand for better quality, translucent rice varieties.
| [UPSC 2022] Consider the following statements: DNA Barcoding can be a tool to :
1. assess the age of a plant or animal. 2. distinguish among species that look alike. 3. identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 (d) 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
MIT-led research suggests life may not need liquid water; ionic liquids (salts that stay liquid below 100°C) could support life on rocky super-Earths with volcanic activity and little water.
About Ionic Liquids (ILs):
- Overview: Salts in liquid form below 100°C, composed entirely of ions.
- Properties: Non-volatile, non-flammable, thermally stable, and tunable as hydrophobic or hydrophilic.
- Structure: Unlike water (neutral molecules), ILs consist of ions and ion pairs.
- Electrochemical Use: Excellent electrolytes with broad electrochemical windows.
- Applications: Used in synthesis, catalysis, electrochemistry, extraction, biotechnology, and as green alternatives to volatile solvents.
Breakthrough Findings of MIT Study:
- Life Without Water: Experiments showed life could potentially survive using ILs as solvents instead of water.
- Natural Formation: Sulfuric acid mixed with nitrogen compounds can naturally form ILs.
- Exoplanet Link: Such ILs may exist on rocky super-Earths with volcanic activity and thin atmospheres.
- Venus Research Origin: Discovery emerged from studying Venus, where sulfuric acid clouds interact with organic molecules to form ILs.
- Biological Relevance: ILs can provide stable environments for biomolecules, supporting metabolism.
Significance of the Study:
- Habitability Expansion: Broadens habitability definition beyond water-based models.
- Biosignatures: Suggests new chemical markers for exoplanet life detection.
- Venus Missions: Strengthens rationale for Venusâs exploration targeting IL-based chemistry.
- Wider Habitable Zones: Implies more planets could host life than previously thought.
| [UPSC 2015] The term âGoldilocks Zoneâ is often seen in the news in the context of:
(a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth
(b) regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available
(c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space*
(d) search for meteorites containing precious metals |
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Why in the News?
In August 2025, the Supreme Court intervened twice to prevent the misuse of criminal proceedings in essentially civil disputes.
About Civil and Criminal Cases:
- Civil cases involve disputes between individuals or organisations and are mostly governed by Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (CPC). The aim is to resolve rights and duties, usually through compensation (damages) or injunctions. Examples: property disputes, contract breaches, divorce, custody, money recovery.
- Criminal cases involve offences against the state or society. The objective is punishment and deterrence. Initiated by the state prosecutor. Examples: theft, cheating, assault, murder.
- Burden of proof:
- Civil cases: Decided on a preponderance of probabilities (more likely than not).
- Criminal cases: Guilt must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
- Dual Cases: Some acts can give rise to both civil and criminal liability. For dual proceedings, there must be proof of criminal intent before entering the commercial or personal relationship.
- Timelines: Data from the National Judicial Data Grid (2025) shows civil cases are slower (avg. 4.91 years) compared to many criminal cases (70% disposed within a year).
Recent Supreme Court Actions:
- Rajasthan plywood dispute case (Aug 13, 2025): SC held there was no criminal breach of trust in a simple sale transaction. Denial of pre-arrest bail by the High Court was overturned.
- Allahabad HC case (Aug 4, 2025): SC criticised a judge for allowing criminal proceedings in a business transaction dispute, calling it a âmockery of justiceâ. The judge was temporarily barred from handling criminal cases, later reinstated after CJI intervention.
- The SC clarified that civil disputes cannot be turned into criminal prosecutions unless fraud or criminal intent is clearly shown.
| [UPSC 2016] With reference to the ‘Gram Nyayalaya Act’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
The British conquest of Sindh in the 1840s was a key step in colonial expansion, reminding us that regions like Sindh, Punjab, and Bengal came under British rule long before the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan.
British Conquest of Sindh:
- Sindh was annexed by the British in 1843 after the battles of Miani and Dubbo.
- The resistance was led by Hosh Muhammad Sheedi, a general of the Talpur army and member of the African-origin Siddi community.
- His defiance symbolised the first major armed resistance to British expansion in northwest India.
|
Political Background in Sindh:
- Kalhora Dynasty (1701â1779): Founded by Mian Yar Muhammad Kalhoro, recognised by Mughals; ruled northern and central Sindh. Prosperous period but weakened by internal disputes.
- Talpur Dynasty (1779â1843): Baloch Talpurs overthrew Kalhoras; consolidated Sindh under clan rule at Hyderabad and Khairpur.
- Geopolitical Context: Sindh lay at the crossroads of BritishâFrenchâRussian rivalry (The Great Game). Britain feared Russian advances through Iran and Afghanistan.
- British Entry: East India Company forced treaties on Talpurs; captured Karachi (1839) after bombarding Manora fort.
British Advance and the Fall of Sindh:
- Battle of Miani (17 Feb 1843): British under Sir Charles Napier defeated Mir Nasir Khan Talpur near Hyderabad.
- Battle of Dubbo (24 Mar 1843): Hosh Muhammad Sheedi allied with Mir Sher Muhammad Talpur of Mirpur Khas. Sheedi raised the war cry âMarvesoon par Sindh na desoonâ (I may die but will not give up Sindh). He was killed in action.
- British Annexation: After Dubbo, Sindh was annexed into the Bombay Presidency. Talpur rule ended.
- Aftermath: Within a decade, Punjab too was annexed (1849), bringing all of northwest India under British rule.
Legacy of Hosh Muhammad Sheedi:
- Born into the household of Talpur rulers; of African-Siddi descent.
- Valour acknowledged by both Indian and British chroniclers.
- Became a folk hero of Sindh, remembered by Hindus and Muslims alike.
- His legacy is central to the cultural memory of Sindh and highlights the role of the Siddi community in resisting colonialism.
| [UPSC 2007] The ruler of which one of the following States was removed from power by the British on the pretext of misgovernance?
Options: (a) Awadh* (b) Jhansi (c) French (d) Satara |
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Why in the News?
On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister delivered the longest Independence Day speech (103 minutes) from the Red Fort, continuing a tradition started by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1947.
The fortâs choice as the venue reflects its historic role as Delhiâs seat of power and symbol of sovereignty.
About the Red Fort:
- Construction: Built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the palace fort of Shahjahanabad, his new capital.
- Material: Enclosed by massive red sandstone walls with royal pavilions and apartments.
- Water Feature: Contained the Nahr-i-Behisht (âStream of Paradiseâ), a continuous water channel.
- Architectural Value: Prime example of Mughal architecture, blending Islamic traditions with Indian craftsmanship.
- Recognition: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
Historical Significance of Delhi and Red Fort:
- Delhiâs Role: Seat of power for nearly a thousand years, regarded as âcapital of all Hindustanâ by Babur.
- Shahjahanabad: Inaugurated in 1648 with the Red Fort at its centre.
- Symbol of Sovereignty: Even after Mughal decline, Delhi remained central; East India Company minted coins in the emperorâs name.
1857 Revolt and British Authority:
- Revolt Centre: Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared leader by sepoys in Delhi.
- Aftermath: Fall of Delhi ended Mughal rule; Zafar was exiled.
- Fort Damage: British converted Red Fort into a military garrison, destroying ~80% of interiors.
- Imperial Authority: Delhi Durbars (1877, 1903, 1911) asserted British control before capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
Significance of Red Fort for Independence Day:
- INA Trials: Held in Red Fort in 1946, igniting nationalist fervour.
- 1947 Ceremony: Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag on 15 August 1947 and gave the first Independence Day address.
- Tradition: Since then, every Prime Minister hoists the flag and addresses the nation from its ramparts.
- Symbolism: Site once stamped with colonial dominance, now reclaimed as a symbol of Indiaâs sovereignty.
| [UPSC 2021] What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January, 1950?
Options: (a) A democratic Republic (b) A Sovereign Democratic Republic* (c) A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic (d) A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic |
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Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has recently called returning sterilised stray dogs to the streets under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program as âunreasonable and absurdâ and ordered they be moved to shelters.
About Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program:
- Purpose: Humane, scientifically proven method to control stray dog populations and reduce rabies.
- Legal Basis: First under Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 (under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960); updated as Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
- Development: Created with support from the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Core Method: âCatchâsteriliseâvaccinateâreleaseâ model; prohibits relocation or culling.
- Implementation: Managed by municipalities, municipal corporations, and panchayats.
- Authorisation: Only organisations recognised by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) can conduct programs.
- Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023:
- Implemented to comply with Supreme Court guidelines in Writ Petition No. 691 of 2009.
- Assigns responsibility to local bodies (municipalities, corporations, panchayats) to conduct ABC programs for sterilisation and immunisation of stray dogs.
- Prohibits relocation of stray dogs as a means of population control; instead, they must be sterilised and returned to the same area.
- Only organisations recognised by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) can conduct ABC programs.
Key Features:
- Sterilisation Target: Minimum 70% of stray dogs in an area within one reproductive cycle (~6 months).
- Focus: Female sterilisation at a 70:30 female-to-male ratio.
- Rabies Control: Mandatory rabies vaccination (ABCâARV) for every sterilised dog.
- Infrastructure: Kennels, veterinary facilities, vehicles, and hygienic shelters required.
- Recordkeeping: Detailed records for catching, surgery, vaccination, and release.
- Monitoring: State and local committees ensure compliance and handle complaints.
- Legal Protection: Mass relocation or killing prohibited under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960.
| [UPSC 2010] Consider the following statements:
1. Every individual in the population is equally susceptible host for Swine Flu.
2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu
3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only* (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Parliament has passed the Income-tax Bill, 2025, replacing the 1961 law with a leaner, simpler version free of redundant provisions and archaic language, effective April 1, 2026.
About New Income Tax Bill, 2025:
- Purpose: Replaces the Income Tax Act, 1961 after more than 60 years to simplify the law, remove redundant provisions, and modernise tax administration.
- Effective Date: Comes into effect from April 1, 2026.
- Structural Changes: Sections reduced from 819 to 536; chapters from 47 to 23.
- Conciseness: Word count cut from 5.12 lakh to 2.6 lakh, with 39 tables and 40 formulas for clarity.
- New Concept: Introduces âtax yearâ defined as April 1 to March 31.
Key Features:
- Refunds: Restores refund claims on belated returns by removing the earlier restriction.
- Tax Collected at Source (TCS) Clarity: Nil TCS for Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) remittances for education funded by financial institutions.
- Corporate Tax: Corrects errors in inter-corporate dividend deduction for companies opting for concessional tax rates.
- Alternate Minimum Tax (AMT) Alignment: Aligns AMT provisions for Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) with existing rates.
- Nil-Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) Certificate: Permits taxpayers with no liability to obtain a nil-TDS certificate.
- Transfer Pricing: Clarifies transfer pricing provisions, set-off of losses, and alignment with Section 79 on âbeneficial owner.â
- Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) Benefit: Expands exemption to 5% of total donations, instead of only anonymous donations.
- House Property Income: Clarifies 30% standard deduction after municipal taxes.
- Search Definition: Retains âvirtual digital spaceâ definition to include cloud storage, email, and social media accounts.
- Data Handling: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be issued for handling personal digital data seized in searches.
| [UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements: Statement I: In India, income from allied agricultural activities like poultry farming and wool rearing in rural areas is exempted from any tax. Statement II: In India, rural agricultural land is not considered a capital asset under the provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I*
(c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
(d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct |
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Why in the News?
75 years ago on August 15, 1950, a magnitude 8.6 earthquake â the strongest recorded on land â struck Northeast India and surrounding regions.
About the Earthquake:
- Magnitude: 8.6, the strongest recorded earthquake on land.
- Impact Area: Tremors lasted 4â8 minutes, felt over 3 million sq. km in India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Tibet, and South China.
- Casualties: Over 1,500 deaths in India and 4,000+ in Tibet; heavy livestock losses and infrastructure destruction.
- Secondary Disasters: Triggered landslides blocking rivers, followed by devastating flash floods.
Geological and Tectonic Setting:
- Epicentre: 40 km west of Rima (Zayu), near IndiaâTibet border in the Mishmi Hills.
- Tectonic Context: Located on IndianâEurasian Plate boundary within Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis (EHS), influenced by the Sunda Plate.
- Fault Type: Strike-slip motion with thrust faulting â atypical for Himalayan quakes.
- Plate Convergence: Eastern Himalayas converge at 10â38 mm/year vs. ~20 mm/year elsewhere.
- Aftershocks: Indicated activation of multiple faults from the Syntaxial bend to Himalayan thrust faults in Arunachal Pradesh.
Lessons and Future Risks:
- Magnitude Potential: Confirms Himalayan segments can produce âĽ8.6 magnitude events.
- Central Himalayan Risk: Identified as likely site for similar future quake.
- Vulnerability Today: Increased due to urbanisation and large infrastructure in seismic zones.
- Infrastructure Safety: Necessitates strict norms for dams and high-risk projects in Eastern Himalayas.
- Preparedness: Highlights need for seismic hazard mapping and disaster readiness.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
1. In a seismograph, P waves are recorded earlier than S waves.
2. In P waves, the individual particles vibrate to and fro in the direction of waves propogation whereas in S waves, the particles vibrate up and down at right angles to the direction of wave propagation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
The Trump administration seeks to end two NASA missions under the Orbiting Carbon Observatories (OCO) program, which monitor global carbon dioxide emissions and plant health.
About Orbiting Carbon Observatories (OCO) Program:
- Overview: A NASA Earth remote sensing initiative dedicated to monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide (COâ) from space.
- Objective: Designed to enhance understanding of climate change by precisely tracking COâ sources and sinks.
- Comprises three missions:
- OCO-1: Launched in 2009 but failed shortly after launch.
- OCO-2: Launched in July 2014 as a replacement.
- OCO-3: Installed on the International Space Station in May 2019.
Key Features:
- Precision Measurement: Provides high-resolution global COâ data and maps of plant photosynthesis.
- Dual Capability: Measures COâ levels and solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence to assess photosynthesis.
- Applications: Detects drought, forecasts food shortages, identifies carbon sinks/sources, supports crop planning.
- Global Reach: Tracks COâ distribution over continents, oceans, and remote ecosystems like Amazon and boreal forests.
- Major Discoveries: Amazon rainforest now emits more COâ than it absorbs; boreal forests identified as major carbon sinks.
- Policy Relevance: Supplies key data for climate treaties and greenhouse gas reporting.
| [UPSC 2019] For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used?
1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location
2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location
3. Land surface temperatures of a specific location
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
Lok Sabha Speaker has initiated removal proceedings against a Judge of the Allahabad High Court by admitting a motion signed by 146 members and forming a three-member inquiry committee.
About Appointment of High Court Judges:
- Constitutional Basis: Article 217 of the Constitution of India.
- Appointing Authority: President of India, in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), Governor of the concerned State, and Chief Justice of the concerned High Court.
- Collegium System: The proposal is initiated by the High Courtâs Chief Justice, forwarded through the Chief Minister and Governor, and decided by the CJI along with the two senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
- Chief Justice Posting Policy: Chief Justices are appointed from outside the State to ensure impartiality.
- Transfers: The CJI and senior-most judges of the Supreme Court decide transfers to maintain judicial independence.
Removal Process:
- Grounds: Proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
- Procedure: Impeachment process under Articles 124(4) and 217, and Section 3(2) of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
- Initiation: Motion signed by at least 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs.
- Inquiry: 3-member committee comprising a Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court, and a distinguished jurist investigates the charges.
- Voting Requirement: Two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament for removal.
- In-House Mechanism: CJI can initiate internal inquiries and advise resignation in serious cases.
Other Notable Cases:
- Justice V. Ramaswami (1993): Faced impeachment for financial misconduct; motion failed in Lok Sabha.
- Justice Soumitra Sen (2011): Resigned after Rajya Sabha voted for removal over fund misappropriation.
- Justice K. Veeraswamy: Corruption case remained unresolved until his death.
- Justice Shamit Mukherjee (2003), Justice Nirmal Yadav (2008), Justice S.N. Shukla (2017): Faced criminal charges for corruption after in-house inquiries.
| [UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:
1. The mode of removal of a Judge of a High Court in India is the same as that of the removal of a Judge of the Supreme Court.
2. After retirement from office, a permanent Judge of a High Court cannot plead or act in any court or before any authority in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only * (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
Many legislators of the Goa Assembly across party lines demanded the legalisation of Dhiri Bull Fighting in Goa.
About Dhiri Bull Fighting:
- Overview: Goan sport where two bulls lock horns in paddy fields or grounds.
- Cultural Link: Associated with post-harvest feasts and church celebrations.
- Nature of Contest: Bulls push until one retreats; no matadors or killing involved.
- Event: Bulls given unique names, treated like local icons.
- Betting: High-stakes wagers involve locals and Goan diaspora.
Recent Controversy:
- Legal Ban: Banned in 1997 under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act after a fatality.
- Judicial Position: Supreme Court upheld the ban; events continue secretly.
- Political Push: Lawmakers (2024â25) seek legalisation for cultural/tourism value.
- Proposed Model: Advocates want regulated events, citing Jallikattuâs example.
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Why in the News?
The Union Health Ministry has launched the State Health Regulatory Excellence Index (SHRESTH), a first-of-its-kind national framework to benchmark and strengthen state drug regulatory systems.
About State Health Regulatory Excellence Index (SHRESTH):
- Purpose: National initiative by Union Health Ministry to benchmark and strengthen state drug regulatory systems.
- Developer: Designed by Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
- Objective:Â To benchmark and improve the performance of state-level drug regulatory authorities across India through a transparent, data-driven framework.
- Method: Uses a transparent, data-driven framework and acts as a virtual gap assessment tool for maturity certification.
Key Features:
- State Categories: Manufacturing states assessed on 27 indices; distribution-focused states/UTs assessed on 23 indices.
- Evaluation Themes: Human resources, infrastructure, licensing, surveillance, and responsiveness.
- Data Submission: Monthly metric data submitted by the 25th; scores shared on the 1st of the next month.
- Performance Benchmarking: Rankings encourage cross-learning and adoption of best practices.
- Capacity Building: Workshops, joint trainings, and regulatory audits to strengthen state systems.
- Digital Integration: Dashboards like Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) for real-time monitoring.
- Global Standards: Supports Indiaâs goal to meet WHO-equivalent medicine quality norms, building on WHO Maturity Level-3 vaccine status.
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Indiaâs public sector health care system largely focuses on curative care with limited preventive, promotive and rehabiliative care.
Statement-II: Under Indiaâs decentralized approach to health care delivery, the States are primarily responsible for organizing health services.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Options: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I *
(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct |
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Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has raised a key questionâwhether the âpotentiality of abuseâ of Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which punishes acts endangering the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, could be a ground to declare the provision unconstitutional.
About Section 152 BNS:
- Deals with: Acts endangering sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
- Origin: Introduced in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, effective 1 July 2024, replacing Section 124A IPC (sedition).
- Scope: Criminalises purposeful or knowing acts that:
- Excite secession, armed rebellion, or subversive activities.
- Encourage separatist feelings.
- Endanger sovereignty, unity, or integrity of India.
- Means Covered: Words (spoken/written), signs, visible representation, electronic communication, financial means, or any other method.
- Punishment: Life imprisonment or imprisonment up to 7 years + fine.
- Nature of Offence: Cognizable, non-bailable, triable by Court of Session.
- Exception Clause: Lawful criticism of government measures to seek changeâwithout inciting rebellion/secessionâis not an offence.
- Key Difference from Section 124A IPC: Focus shifted from âdisaffection against Governmentâ to direct threats against the nationâs unity and sovereignty, with explicit recognition of digital-era methods.
Issues with Section 152 BNS:
- Potential for Misuse: Broad and subjective terms like âendangering sovereigntyâ can be stretched to target political dissent, journalism, and activism.
- Vagueness: Undefined concepts (e.g., âsovereigntyâ in context of speech) create uncertainty, enabling arbitrary interpretation by authorities.
- Similarity to Sedition Law: Despite rewording, its core effect mirrors Section 124A IPC, which is under constitutional challenge for curbing free speech.
- Chilling Effect on Free Speech: Risk of self-censorship among journalists, activists, and citizens due to fear of prosecution.
- High Punishment and Cognizability: Harsh penalties combined with arrest without warrant heighten scope for harassment before judicial scrutiny.
- Digital Surveillance Concerns: Explicit coverage of electronic communication and financial means may widen investigative reach into personal digital activities.
- Judicial Burden: Courts will need to repeatedly interpret the law to balance Article 19(1)(a) freedom of speech with state security.
| [UPSC 2025] Sedition has become my religion” was the famous statement given by Gandhiji at the time of:
(a) the Champaran Satyagraha (b) publicly violating Salt Law at Dandi* (c) attending the Second Round Table Conference in London (d) the launch of the Quit India Movement |
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Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved four new projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), adding to the countryâs push for a robust semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem.
About India Semiconductor Mission (ISM):
- Overview: Launched in 2021; Operates under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
- Purpose: Develop a sustainable semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in India.
- Scope: Supports the entire value chain â from chip design to fabrication, assembly, testing, packaging, and display manufacturing.
- Administrative Role: Receives and evaluates applications for schemes under the Semicon India Programme and engages with industry stakeholders to attract investment.
Key Components:
- Semiconductor Fabs Scheme: Fiscal support for setting up semiconductor wafer fabrication plants in India.
- Display Fabs Scheme: Incentives for manufacturing TFT LCD and AMOLED display panels.
- Compound Semiconductors / Silicon Photonics / Sensors Fab & ATMP/OSAT Scheme: Support for advanced semiconductor technologies and packaging facilities.
- Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme: Incentives and infrastructure support for IC, SoC, chipset, and semiconductor-linked design projects; administered by CDAC; includes support for startups.
- Modernisation of Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL), Mohali: Upgrading as a brownfield fab.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes manufacturing, R&D, packaging, and design support.
| [UPSC 2012] Recently there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called rare earth metals. Why?
1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.
2. Other than China, Australia, Canada, Chile, these elements are not found in any country.
3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is growing demand for these elements.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a)Â 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only * (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Scientists at Fermilab in the USA have made an ultra-precise measurement of the muonâs magnetic behaviour, a finding that could hint at new physics beyond current laws.
Understanding Muon and G-2:
- Overview: A muon is a subatomic particle like an electron but about 200 times heavier.
- Behaviour: It has spin, making it act like a tiny magnet.
- g-Factor: The magnetâs strength is measured by the g-factor. In simple theory, g = 2, but quantum effects make it slightly different â this difference is called g-2 (g minus 2).
- Physics Relevance: Measuring g-2 can reveal unknown forces or particles beyond the Standard Model.
The Fermilab Breakthrough:
- Precision Record: Fermilab (USA) measured muonâs g-2 to an accuracy of 0.127 parts per million â comparable to detecting a 4-gram change on a 4-tonne elephant.
- Method: Muons were sent into a large magnetic ring, measuring the gap between spin rate and orbital rate.
- Results: Matches earlier experiments; disagreement with theory depends on calculation method used.
- Next Steps: Japanâs upcoming experiment will independently test results.
Significance:
- Potential New Physics: If the gap is real, it may signal undiscovered forces or particles.
- Refining Theory: If not, calculations will improve, sharpening known physics.
- Broader Impact: Advances precision science and deepens global understanding of fundamental physics.
- Lesson: Ultra-precise measurements can uncover hidden truths about nature.
| [UPSC 2013] The efforts to detect the existence of Higgs boson particle have become frequent news in the recent past. What is/are the importance/importances of discovering this particle?
1. It will enable us to under-stand as to why elementary particles have mass.
2. It will enable us in the near future to develop the technology of transferring matter from one point to another without traversing the physical space between them.
3. It will enable us to create better fuels for nuclear fission.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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