Why in the news?
The 26th edition of Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival has begun with great enthusiasm, reaffirming its status as one of India’s most vibrant cultural events. The festival has grown into a major platform for showcasing the cultural diversity of Nagaland’s tribes and promoting tourism in the Northeast.
What is the Hornbill Festival?
- First organised: 2000
- Also called: “Festival of Festivals”
- Purpose:
- Promote inter-tribal interaction
- Preserve indigenous Naga heritage
- Blend traditional and contemporary art forms
- Organised by:
- Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland
- Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland
- Venue: Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, ~12 km from Kohima, Nagaland
- Named after: The Hornbill bird, which is deeply associated with the socio-cultural identity of the Nagas
| Consider the following pairs: Tradition State (2018)
1. Chapchar Kut festival — Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba ballad — Manipur
3. Thang-Ta dance — 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?
The Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) notice to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and senior officials in the KIIFB masala bond case has revived debates on FEMA compliance, off-budget borrowings, and Centre–State fiscal relations. As local body polls approach, the issue has also acquired political significance.
What is KIIFB?
Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB)
- Statutory body established under KIIF Act, 1999
- Revived in 2016 as Kerala’s key infrastructure financing arm
- Raises funds outside the State budget, mainly through long-term borrowing
- Functions as an off-budget financing mechanism
What is Off-Budget Borrowing?
- Debt raised by state entities (SPVs, boards) instead of the government directly
- Not reflected in the official fiscal deficit
- CAG has criticised such borrowings for reducing transparency
What Are Masala Bonds?
Masala Bonds =
- Rupee-denominated bonds issued in overseas markets
- Borrowing risk is borne by the investor, not the issuer
- Governed by RBI’s External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) Framework
|
KIIFB Masala Bond:
- Issued in 2019 on the London Stock Exchange
- Total amount: ₹2,150 crore
- First sub-national entity in India to issue such a bond
Why Did ED Issue Notices?
ED’s probe relates to alleged violations under:FEMA, 1999 – Foreign Exchange Management Act
ED claims: Part of the masala bond funds was used for land purchase. RBI prohibits land purchase using ECB/masala bond proceeds
Kerala’s defence:
- Land was acquired, not purchased
- Public land acquisition does not violate FEMA or RBI norms
Enforcement Directorate (ED)
- Established under DOF Notification (1956)
- Investigates:
- PMLA, 2002
- FEMA, 1999
- Economic offences referred by other agencies
- Works under Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance
CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General of India)
- Constitutional body under Article 148
- Criticised KIIFB borrowings as off-budget liabilities
|
| With reference to ‘IFC Masala Bonds’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the statements given below is/are correct? (2016)
1. The International Finance Corporation, which offers these bonds, is an arm of the World Bank.
2. They are the rupee-denominated bonds and are a source of debt financing for the public and private sector.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the news?
At the Conference on 50 Years of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) held in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar warned that global biological threats—natural, accidental, or deliberate are growing due to rapid scientific advances. He emphasised the rising risks of bioterrorism and highlighted structural weaknesses in the BWC.
About the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)
- Came into force: 1975
- Objective: Prohibits development, production, acquisition, stockpiling & use of biological and toxin weapons.
- Depositaries: Russia, UK, USA
- India: Founding State Party
Structural Gaps Jaishankar Highlighted
- No verification/compliance mechanism
- No permanent technical secretariat
- No system to monitor new scientific developments
- Reliance on voluntary confidence-building measures (CBMs)
Rising Biological Threat Landscape
- Misuse of biological agents by non-state actors is a serious concern.
- Emerging technologies increasing risks:
- Synthetic biology
- Genome editing (CRISPR)
- AI-driven biological design
India’s Strengths in Biosecurity
- Produces 60% of global vaccines
- Supplies 20% of world’s generic medicines (including 60% for Africa)
- 11,000 biotech startups (3rd largest globally; 50 in 2014 → 11,000 now)
- Advanced BSL-3 and BSL-4 labs under ICMR & DBT
India’s Global Health Contributions
- Vaccine Maitri: ~300 million vaccine doses, aid to 100+ countries
- Stressed that biological crisis assistance must be “fast, practical and humanitarian”
| Which one of the following is associated with the issue of control and phasing out of the use of ozone-depleting substances? (2015)
(a) Bretton Woods Conference
(b) Montreal Protocol
(c) Kyoto Protocol
(d) Nagoya Protocol |
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Why in the news?
In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy have initiated emergency procurement of satellite-linked Heron Mk II Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from Israel. This marks the first induction of Heron Mk II by the Indian Navy.
What is Emergency Procurement?
- Covered under Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP).
- Allows armed forces to procure weapons/systems worth up to ₹300 crore per case.
- Meant for urgent operational requirements.
- Fast-tracked contracting and delivery timelines.
About Heron Mk II (MALE UAV)
Category: MALE – Medium Altitude Long Endurance.
Manufacturer: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
Key Features (Prelims Points):
- Endurance: > 24 hours continuous flight.
- Payload Capacity: ~ half a tonne.
- Sensors:
- Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
- Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR)
- SIGINT (Signals Intelligence)
- SATCOM-enabled:
- Encrypted satellite communication
- Enables Beyond Line-of-Sight (BLOS) operations.
- Fully automated Take-off & Landing (ATOL).
- All-weather ISR platform (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance).
Current Indian Operators:
- Indian Army (deployed in northern sector).
- Indian Air Force.
- Indian Navy (first time induction now).
| With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2014)
1. It is surface-to surface missile.
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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Why in the news?
Guinea-Bissau, one of the world’s most coup-prone nations, witnessed yet another military takeover on 26 November 2025, overthrowing President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The coup was led by members of the Presidential Guard, marking the latest in a long line of disruptions to democratic governance in West Africa.
Geography & Country Profile
- Location: West Africa, bordered by
- Senegal (North)
- Guinea (East & South)
- Atlantic Ocean (West)
- Language: Portuguese (Lusophone Africa).
- Population: Approx. 2.25 million.
- HDI Rank: 174 / 193 (UNDP).
- Economy: Dominated by agriculture, especially cashew nuts
- Cashew = 80%+ of export earnings (World Bank).
- Known as a hub for drug trafficking (Latin America → Europe).
Political Background
- Independence from Portugal in 1974.
- One of the most unstable countries globally:
- Has had more successful coups than peaceful transfers of power.
- Termed the “Coup Trap” country – chronic cycle where military becomes the dominant political actor.
| In the recent years Chad, Guinea, Mali and Sudan caught the international attention for which one of the following reasons common to all of them? (2023)
(a) Discovery of rich deposits of rare earth elements
(b) Establishement of Chinese military bases
(c) Southward expansion of Sahara Desert
(d) Successful coups |
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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 Svalbard
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) → 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. Denmark
2. Japan
3. Russian Federation
4. United Kingdom
5. United States of America
Which of the above are the members of the ‘Arctic Council’?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 3 and 5 only |
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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 “Khiamniungan” means “source of great water/river”.
- Language: Khiamniugan, a Sino-Tibetan Naga language.
- Social Structure: Traditionally based on a clan system.
Festivals
- Tsokum Sumai: Celebrated in September–early 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) : Sikkim
(2). Karbi : Himachal Pradesh
(3). Dongaria Kondh : Odisha
(4). Bonda : Tamil Nadu
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
In the 128th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, 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 district’s 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) ILO
(b) IMF
(c) UNCTAD
(d) WTO |
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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 duck’s 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 Nadu
2. Kerala
3. Karnataka
4. Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 |
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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 1980–2013.
- 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)
- 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.
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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Why in the News?
- Key tests for Samudrayaan, India’s 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?
- A special composite material made of hollow micro-balloons embedded in resin. Provides high buoyancy & resistance to extreme pressure → essential for deep-sea vehicles.
About Samudrayaan
- Part of India’s 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 ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of (2015)
(a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
(b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
(c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antartic region
(d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region |
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Why in the News?
A Rustic Bunting (Emberiza rustica) — a rare migratory passerine bird — was spotted for the first time in the National Capital Region (NCR) at Najafgarh Jheel (Delhi–Gurugram 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 & Kashmir’s Kangan (2022 — 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 → Near Threatened
- Reason: Decline has slowed down over the last decade.
|
| Consider the following: (2014)
1. Bats
2. Bears
3. Rodents
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above |
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Why in the News?
India on 28 November 2025 signed a ₹7,995-crore follow-on support package with the United States for the Indian Navy’s 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.
2. INS Viraat is a submarine.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
India’s GDP grew 8.2% in Q2 of FY 2025-26 (July–September), 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: “7% or higher”
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 → 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 (“no upswing in GFCF”)
Opposition Criticism
- IMF recently rated India’s national accounts ‘C’, 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.
(2) The Gross Domestic product at market prices (in rupees) has steadily increased in the last decade.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
(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 Government of India approved a new scheme called Tex-RAMPS to strengthen research, data systems, innovation, and competitiveness in India’s textiles sector.
The scheme aligns with India’s 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: ₹305 crore
- Period: FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31
- Co-terminus with the upcoming Finance Commission cycle
Objectives
To future-proof India’s 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 Technology
(b) Ministry of Employment
(c) NITI Aayog
(d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship |
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Why in the News?
A study published in Nature (Nov 2025) found that grey seal milk contains 332 different oligosaccharides—33% 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 mammal’s 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:
1. Bats
2. Bears
3. Rodents
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only
(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 |
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Why in the news?
A new study (Current Pharmaceutical Analysis, 2025) suggests that common plant molecules from Aloe vera—especially Beta sitosterol—may inhibit key enzymes associated with Alzheimer’s 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.
|
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)
- 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: −8.6 kcal/mol
- BChE: −8.7 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 “qubit” is mentioned? (2022)
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(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. |
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Why in the news?
According to a study published in Canadian Family Physician, Vitamin B12 deficiency often shows early dermatological symptoms—such as pigmentation, dryness, and inflammation—before 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 → reduced RBC production → low oxygen delivery to skin → 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, Crohn’s 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 : Scurvy
2. Vitamin D : Rickets
3. Vitamin E : Night Blindness
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) None |
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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 Mars’ 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 India’s most influential geologists, known as a foundational figure in modern Indian geological studies.
- Served as Director, Geological Survey of India (GSI) (1950–1956).
Major Contributions
- Mapped India’s 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 “Geology of India and Burma”, a globally referenced work in earth sciences.
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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 it
| What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (ELISA)’ project? (2017)
(a) To detect neutrinos
(b) To detect gravitational waves
(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system
(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 |
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Why in the news?
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 India’s 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 → 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 India’s 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.
(2) NIF is an initiative to strengthen the highly advanced scientific research in India’s premier scientific institution in collaboration with highly advanced foreign scientific institution.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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