Why in the News?
Walter Kauzmann’s 1959 idea that protein folding relies on water-loving and water-avoiding parts has now been challenged by new research showing protein cores are more flexible than once believed.
Protein and Protein Folding – Overview
- Proteins: Biological macromolecules made of 20 amino acids in specific sequences.
- Folding: Sequence dictates 3D shape, essential for function.
- Water Interaction:
- Hydrophilic (e.g., lysine) → outer surface.
- Hydrophobic (e.g., tryptophan) → buried in core.
- Kauzmann Hypothesis (1959): Proteins have a hydrophobic core and hydrophilic surface, guiding folding.
- 1960s X-ray Evidence: Confirmed hydrophobic residues inside, hydrophilic outside.
- Earlier Belief: Core was highly sensitive—small changes could destabilize protein.
Recent Research:
- Study Design: Tested 78,125 amino acid combos at 7 sites in cores of 3 proteins:
- Human SH3 domain (FYN tyrosine kinase)
- Barley CI-2A protein
- E. coli CspA protein
- Findings:
- Many changes harmful, but thousands stable (e.g., SH3-FYN had 12,000+ stable conformations).
- Machine learning accurately predicted stability even with <25% sequence similarity.
Implications:
- Protein Engineering: Core modifications may be possible without losing stability—beneficial for therapeutics.
- Evolutionary Insight: Protein cores may have been more adaptable during evolution than once thought.
| [UPSC 2010] Which one of the following processes in the bodies of living organisms is a digestive process?
(a) Breakdown of proteins into amino acids * (b) Breakdown of glucose into CO2 and H2O (c) Conversion of glucose into glycogen (d) Conversion of amino acids into proteins. |
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Why in the News?
In 2025, India reported a 32.2% rise in its Asiatic lion population, from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, as per the 16th Lion Population Estimation.
| World Lion Day is observed annually on August 10 to promote awareness and action for the conservation of lions worldwide. |
About Asiatic Lion:
- Scientific Name: Panthera leo leo — subspecies found only in India.
- Historical Range: Once across West Asia & Middle East; now extinct outside India.
- Physical Trait: Slightly smaller than African lions; has a unique belly fold.
- Current Range: Gir National Park & surrounding Saurashtra areas, Gujarat.
- Past Range in India: Extended to West Bengal and central India (Rewa, Madhya Pradesh).
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN –Vulnerable
- CITES – Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 – Schedule I
2025 Census Highlights:
- Population: 891 lions (+32.2% from 2020).
- Decadal Growth: +70.36% since 2015 (from 523 lions).
- Adult Females: 330 (+26.9% from 2020).
- Satellite Populations: 497 lions in 9 locations — new groups in Barda WLS, Jetpur, Babra-Jasdan.
- Corridor Records: 22 lions sighted for the first time.
- Regional Growth: Mitiyala WLS (+100%), Bhavnagar Mainland (+84%), South Eastern Coast (+40%).
- Declines: Girnar WLS (-4%), Bhavnagar Coast (-12%).
| [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:
1. Asiatic lion is naturally found In India only.
2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only * (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the J&K High Court that the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) can nominate five members to the J&K Legislative Assembly without the aid and advice of the elected government.
About Nominations in State Assemblies:
- Election Mode: Members are mainly directly elected from single-member constituencies.
- Assembly Size: Ranges from 60–500 members; smaller States/UTs like Sikkim, Goa, Mizoram, and Puducherry have fewer by parliamentary approval.
- Anglo-Indian Nomination (Abolished): Governors earlier nominated 1 Anglo-Indian member if under-represented; abolished by 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019 (effective Jan 2020).
- Rights of Nominated Members: Same rights/duties as elected members, except in matters needing a direct electoral mandate.
- Prevalence: Most States have no nominated members; allowed only under special constitutional/legal provisions.
- Parliamentary Nomination Abolition: Anglo-Indian nomination in Lok Sabha (2) and State Assemblies (1) also removed by the 104th Amendment.
- Legislative Council Difference: In Vidhan Parishads, Governors nominate 1/6th members from literature, science, art, co-operatives, and social service.
Exceptions for Jammu & Kashmir:
- Special Provision: Under J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019 (amended 2023), the Lieutenant-Governor can nominate:
- Women: 2 women if under-represented.
- Migrants: 2 Kashmiri migrants (including 1 woman).
- PoJK Community: 1 member from Pakistan-occupied J&K community.
- Seat Structure: Nominated members are in addition to elected members; Assembly = 114 elected + nominated (24 PoJK seats vacant).
Legal Basis in J&K:
- Statutory Provision: Sections 15, 15A, 15B of J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019 (amended 2023) grant L-G nomination powers.
- MHA Clarification:
- Nature of Power: Statutory function at L-G’s discretion, without elected government’s aid/advice.
- Precedent: Similar powers under Union Territories Act, 1963 (e.g., Puducherry).
- Counting Rule: Nominated members are part of sanctioned Assembly strength.
- Purpose: To ensure representation for displaced communities, marginalized groups, and women.
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in respect of election to the President of India:
1. The members nominated to either House of the Parliament or the Legislative Assemblies of States are also eligible to be included in the Electoral College.
2. Higher the number of elective Assembly seats, higher is the value of vote of each MLA of that State.
3. The value of vote of each MLA of Madhya Pradesh is greater than that of Kerala.
4. The value of of vote of each MLA of Puducherry is higher than that of Arunachal Pradesh because the ratio of total population to total number of elective seats in Puducherry is greater as compared to Arunachal Pradesh.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Options: (a) Only one* (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four |
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Why in the News?
In recent years, community member few activists have emerged documenting and preserving Dard-Shin heritage.
About the Dard-Shin Tribe:
- Origin: Ancient Indo-Aryan group from migrations (2000–1500 BCE).
- Historical Mentions: Herodotus, Pliny, Ptolemy, Kalhana’s Rajatarangini.
- Homeland: Dardistan – Chitral, Yasin, Gilgit, Chilas, Bunji, Gurez Valley, Ladakh, N. Afghanistan.
- Political History: Chak dynasty ruled Kashmir for 25+ years in the 16th century before Mughal takeover.
- Current Location: Gurez (Bandipora, J&K), smaller clusters in Drass, Tulail, Chanderkote.
- Status & Language: Scheduled Tribe; speak Shina, distinct from Kashmiri.
- Population: ~48,440 (2011 Census).
- Livelihood: Farming, pastoralism, forest produce, handicrafts; tourism rising.
Cultural Significance:
- Heritage: Among the last Indo-Aryan groups in the Himalayas, preserving language and traditions.
- Historic Role: Gurez Valley – Silk Route link between Kashmir, Central Asia, Tibet.
- Traditions: Rich marriage customs, wool attire, juniper leaf burning for land purification.
- Architecture: Mix of ancient wooden style and modern influences; tools suited for mountain climate.
- Oral History: Migration legends, e.g., families from Gilgit to Ladakh.
- Religion: Islam, Buddhism, remnants of animism from cultural exchanges.
| [UPSC 2014] With reference to ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following statements:
1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand.
2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool.
3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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Why in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reclassified hepatitis D virus (HDV) as carcinogenic, following the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) assessment based on data from The Lancet Oncology.
About Hepatitis D:
- What is it: Hepatitis D is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV).
- Cause: Hepatitis D virus (HDV), an incomplete virus needing hepatitis B virus (HBV) for replication.
- Infection Types:
- Co-infection – HDV + HBV at the same time.
- Superinfection – HDV infects someone already with HBV.
- Transmission: Parenteral exposure (injections, transfusions), mother-to-child, sexual contact.
- Diagnosis: Blood tests for HDV antibodies and HDV-RNA.
- Prevention: HBV vaccination, safe blood practices, safe sex, screening, avoid needle sharing.
Why Hepatitis D is Carcinogenic?
- Causes more severe liver damage than HBV alone.
- HBV–HDV co-infection raises liver cancer risk 2–6 times compared to HBV-only cases.
- Up to 75% develop cirrhosis within 15 years.
- Can cause cancer even without cirrhosis due to HBV DNA integration + HDV-induced damage.
Back2Basics: Hepatitis
- Definition: Liver inflammation from viruses, alcohol, toxins, drugs, autoimmune disorders, or metabolic issues.
- Viral Types:
- A – Fecal-oral; acute; vaccine available.
- B – Blood/body fluids; chronic risk; vaccine available.
- C – Blood-to-blood; often chronic; no vaccine; treatable with antivirals.
- D – Discussed above.
- E – Fecal-oral; usually acute.
- Chronic B, C, D: Major drivers of cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Prevention: Vaccination (A, B), safe injections, screened blood, safe sex, good hygiene.
|
| [UPSC 2019] Which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV. (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine. * (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV. (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years. |
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Why in the News?
A Ground Penetrating Radar survey in Topra Kalan, Haryana, has uncovered signs of a 1,500 BCE settlement, with painted grey ware (PGW), stamped pottery, moulded bricks, and a possible Buddhist stupa.
About Topra Kalan Excavation:
- Agencies: Haryana Archaeology and Museums Department with Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.
- Method: Ground Penetrating Radar survey in January 2025 to map subsurface features without extensive digging.
- Purpose: Assess archaeological significance and preserve ancient heritage sites in Haryana.
- Location: Topra Kalan, Yamunanagar district — believed to be the original site of the Delhi-Topra Ashokan pillar moved by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century.
- Estimated Age: ~1,500 BCE, indicating continuous habitation and possible Buddhist presence.
Key Findings:
- Structures: Buried walls, platforms, and room-like enclosures at 4–5 m depth.
- Religious Feature: Dome-like structure possibly a Buddhist stupa.
- Material Culture: Painted grey ware, black-and-red ware, black-on-red ware, black ware, stamped pottery, moulded bricks, beads.
- Discovery Sources: Both official surveys and artifacts unearthed by locals during construction.
- Historical Links: Accounts by Sir Alexander Cunningham and Hiuen Tsang identify the site as a Buddhist centre.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following information:
Archaeological Site :: State :: Description
1. Chandraketugarh : Odisha : Trading Port town
2. Inamgaon : Maharashtra : Chalcolithic site
3. Mangadu : Kerala : Megalithic site
4. Salihundam : Andhra Pradesh : Rock-cut cave shrines
In which of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) on plastic pollution has opened in Geneva, Switzerland.
About Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC):
- Formation: Created by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in March 2022 to develop a global treaty on plastic pollution.
- Nature: UN-mandated body with equal participation of all member states.
- Output: Produces consensus-based treaties, sometimes including voluntary provisions.
- Precedents: Similar to the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992) and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992).
- Mandate: By 2024, draft a legally binding treaty covering plastic’s full life cycle—production, design, use, and disposal.
Negotiation Process & Timeline:
- Method: Plenary sessions, technical groups, and stakeholder consultations.
- Sessions:
-
- Uruguay (Nov–Dec 2022)
- France (May–June 2023)
- Kenya (Nov 2023)
- Canada (Apr–May 2024)
- South Korea (Nov–Dec 2024, final session)
- Key Debates: Scope, binding vs. voluntary rules, financing, compliance, and differentiated responsibilities.
- Outcome: Treaty text refined until consensus or majority approval.
Goals on Plastic Pollution:
- Standards: Global production and waste management norms.
- Targets: Combination of binding goals and voluntary approaches.
- Financing: Creation of funding mechanisms for treaty implementation.
- Sustainability: Promotion of circular economy and efficient resource use.
- Participation: Inclusion of governments, industry, civil society, Indigenous groups, and waste pickers.
| [UPSC 2021] The ‘Common Carbon Metric,’ supported by UNEP, has been developed for:
(a) Assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world* (b) Enabling commercial farming entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading (c) Enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries (d) Assessing the overall carbon footprint caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit time |
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Why in the News?
Researchers from IIT Delhi and IIT Gandhinagar have developed a District Flood Severity Index (DFSI) to aid flood planning using past data and human impact indicators.
About the District Flood Severity Index (DFSI):
- Objective: To provide a comprehensive, data-based assessment of flood severity across Indian districts.
- Focus: District-level analysis, as districts are the core units for planning and implementation of disaster management in India.
- Based on long-term data (since 1967): Collected annually by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on major flood events.
- Significance: Responds to the lack of an official national index that incorporates human impact, not just flood magnitude.
Key Parameters Used in DFSI:
The index incorporates multiple indicators to measure both the scale and impact of flooding:
- Mean duration (in days) of flood events per district.
- Percentage of district area historically affected by floods.
- Total deaths and injuries due to floods.
- Population of the district — used to assess per capita impact.
- 40-year curated dataset developed at IIT Delhi used for historical flood mapping.
Key Insights from the Index:
- Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): Recorded the highest number of flood events (231), but does not feature in the top 30 most severely impacted districts as per DFSI.
- Patna (Bihar): Ranked #1 on the severity index due to higher population impact and flood spread.
- Assam districts like Dhemaji, Kamrup, and Nagaon consistently face high flood frequency (178+ events), but ranking depends on combined indicators.
|
| [UPSC 2014] What are the benefits of implementing the ‘Integrated Watershed Development Programme’?”
1. Prevention of soil runoff 2. Linking the country’s perennial rivers with seasonal rivers
3. Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table 4. Regeneration of natural vegetation
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only* (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only |
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Why in the News?
With haemophilia care evolving globally, the shift from reactive to preventive treatment has brought Prophylaxis Therapy to the forefront of modern clinical practice.
About Haemophilia:
- What is it: Rare genetic bleeding disorder due to deficiency of clotting factors, mainly Factor VIII (Haemophilia A).
- Effect: Causes prolonged bleeding, even from minor injuries; can lead to internal bleeds in joints, muscles, or brain.
- Key Symptoms: Excessive bleeding, painful joint swelling, risk of disability or brain hemorrhage.
- Prevalence: Estimated 1–1.5 lakh cases in India; only ~29,000 diagnosed (~20%).
- Underdiagnosis Causes: Low awareness, poor access to diagnostics, and socio-economic challenges.
- Impact if Untreated: Each untreated bleed may reduce lifespan by ~16 days; leads to pain, disability, missed school/work, and job loss.
Prophylaxis (Regular Replacement Therapy) and its Benefits:
- What It Is: Regular infusion of clotting factors or non-factor therapies to prevent bleeds.
- Global Standard: Replaces on-demand therapy; adopted as best practice in developed countries.
- Joint Protection: Prevents recurrent bleeds, avoids deformities and long-term disability.
- Quality of Life: Reduces pain and fear, enables normal schooling, work, and social life.
- Healthcare Savings: Cuts emergency visits, hospital stays, and long-term costs.
- Global Status: ~90% of haemophilia patients in developed countries are on prophylaxis.
- India’s Progress: On-demand remains common; some states offer prophylaxis for children under 10.
| [UPSC 2021] In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements:
1.Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
2.A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father.
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 Social Forestry Department of Vadodara rescued an Albino Indian flapshell turtle (Lissemys punctata) from a freshwater lake in Chikhodra, Gujarat.
About Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata):
- Type: Small, freshwater softshell turtle native to South Asia
- Unique Feature: Named for femoral flaps on the plastron that cover the limbs when retracted
- Geographic Range: Found in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar
- River Systems: Occurs in the Indus, Ganges, Irrawaddy, and Salween basins
- Habitat: Prefers shallow, quiet freshwater bodies like rivers, ponds, lakes, marshes, tanks, and canals with muddy or sandy bottoms for burrowing
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- CITES Listing: Appendix II
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (maximum protection)
- Major Threats:
- Poaching for meat, blood-based potions, aphrodisiacs, and traditional medicine
- Illegal trade for fishing bait, livestock feed, leather, and exotic pets
- Habitat loss due to pollution, encroachment, and waterbody destruction
- Albino individuals especially targeted in the illegal pet market
| [UPSC 2013] Consider the following fauna of India:
1. Gharial 2. Leatherback turtle 3. Swamp deer
Which of the above is/are endangered?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3* (d) None |
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Why in the News?
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched “Yashoda AI”, an AI literacy program to empower women with skills in cybersecurity, digital privacy, and safe online practices, promoting digital inclusion across India.
About Yashoda AI:
- Launch: Introduced in May 2025 as an Artificial Intelligence Literacy Program for women.
- Organisers: Joint initiative by the NCW and Future Shift Labs.
- Objective: To train women in cybersecurity, digital privacy, and safe online practices.
- Focus Areas: Covers AI-driven crimes, digital safety, and practical risk mitigation strategies.
- Reach: Over 2,500 women trained to date.
- Beneficiaries: Includes Self-Help Group members, local representatives (Sarpanchs, Pradhans, Mayors, Members of Legislative Assemblies), and frontline workers like Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA workers).
Back2Basics: National Commission for Women
- Status: Statutory body established in 1992 under the NCW Act, 1990.
- Composition: Consists of a Chairperson, 5 Members, and a Member-Secretary—appointed by the Central Government.
- Term: All members serve for a term of 3 years.
- Powers: Holds civil court powers during inquiries:
- Can summon individuals and enforce attendance
- Examine witnesses under oath
- Demand records and receive affidavits
- Issue commissions for examination of witnesses or documents
|
| [UPSC 2017] What is the purpose of Vidyanjali Yojana’?
1. To enable the famous foreign campuses in India.
2. To increase the quality of education provided in government schools by taking help from the private sector and the community.
3. To encourage voluntary monetary contributions from private individuals and organizations so as to improve the infrastructure facilities for primary and secondary schools.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 2 only * (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 2 and 3 only |
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Why in the News?
The Chhattisgarh High Court acquitted a double murder convict citing legal insanity under Section 84 of the IPC (Section 22 BNS), stressing the need to distinguish it from medical insanity and improve mental health investigations.
About Legal Insanity:
- Definition: Legal insanity refers to a mental condition where the accused cannot understand the nature of the act or distinguish right from wrong at the time of the offence.
- Legal Basis: Codified under Section 22 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (formerly Section 84 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860); based on the Mc’Naughten Rule (1843) from English law.
- Presumption of Sanity: Law presumes every person is sane unless proven otherwise; burden of proof lies on the accused (Section 105, Indian Evidence Act).
- Timing Requirement: Insanity must be present at the time of the offence—not before or after.
- Legal vs. Medical Insanity: Legal insanity (court-recognised) is different from medical insanity (clinical diagnosis); only the former is valid for defence.
- Terminology: Section 22 BNS uses the phrase “unsoundness of mind” instead of “insanity”.
- Exclusions: Mental illness, abnormal behaviour, or psychiatric history alone do not qualify.
- Test Applied: Based on cognitive incapacity—whether the person knew the nature, consequences, or wrongfulness (legal or moral) of the act.
- Underlying Principle: Based on “Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea” – no crime without a guilty mind.
Important Judicial Precedents:
- Jai Lal v. Delhi Administration (1969): Insanity defence rejected—accused made rational statements and showed no mental disorder post-crime.
- Shrikant Anandrao Bhosale v. State of Maharashtra (2002): Accused had paranoid schizophrenia and was found incapable of understanding the act—acquitted under Section 84.
- Surendra Mishra v. State of Jharkhand (2011): Court held that not all mentally ill persons qualify; only proven legal insanity is valid.
- Kamala Bhuniya v. State of West Bengal (2015): Acquittal granted—prosecution failed to prove sanity; accused’s conduct supported unsoundness of mind.
| [UPSC 2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:
1.When a prisoner makes out a sufficient case, parole cannot be denied to such a prisoner because it becomes a matter of his/her right. 2.State Governments have their own Prisoners Release on Parole Rules.
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?
Indian mathematician Dr. Rajula Srivastava has received the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize for her groundbreaking work in harmonic analysis and number theory.
About the Indian Laureate: Dr. Rajula Srivastava
- Affiliation: Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, University of Bonn and Max Planck Institute of Mathematics, Germany.
- Field of Work:
- Dr. Srivastava studied how to break down complex mathematical functions into simpler parts using advanced math tools.
- She worked on finding how close certain numbers can get to specific points on curved shapes in higher dimensions.
|
About the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize:
- Purpose: Recognises early-career women mathematicians (within two years of PhD completion) for outstanding research contributions.
- Named After: Maryam Mirzakhani — first woman and first Iranian to win the Fields Medal; known for her work on geometry and Riemann surfaces.
- Objective: To honour Mirzakhani’s legacy, encourage more women in mathematics, and elevate early-career contributions.
- Established: November 2019 by the Breakthrough Prize Foundation.
- Prize Amount: $50,000, may be shared by multiple recipients in a year.
- Eligibility: Women mathematicians who have:
- Recently completed their PhD (within 2 years)
- Shown exceptional promise and innovation in mathematical research.
Other Important Prizes in Mathematics:
- Fields Medal: Awarded every four years to mathematicians under 40, the Fields Medal is the most prestigious global mathematics award, established in 1936, and presented by the International Mathematical Union to recognize outstanding contributions to the field.
- Abel Prize: Instituted by the King of Norway in 2001, the Abel Prize is an annual international award recognizing lifetime achievement in mathematics, often considered the closest equivalent to the Nobel Prize in the discipline.
- Wolf Prize in Mathematics: Awarded annually since 1978 by the Wolf Foundation in Israel, the Wolf Prize honours exceptional achievements across all branches of mathematics and is ranked just below the Fields and Abel Prizes in prestige.
| [UPSC 2016] A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on the biography of
Options: (a) S. Ramanujan* (b) S. Chandhrashekhar (c) S. N. Bose (d) C. V. Raman |
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Why in the News?
The Great Barrier Reef is facing its sharpest coral decline in 40 years, with the 2024 mass bleaching—driven by climate change, cyclones, and coral predators—severely damaging large reef areas.
About Great Barrier Reef:
- Location: Coral Sea, off the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia.
- Length & Area: Extends ~2,300 km; comprises ~3,000 reefs and 900 islands, covering ~350,000 square kilometers (about 10% of global coral reef ecosystems).
- Biodiversity:
- Hosts 400 coral species, 1,500 fish species, and 4,000 mollusk species.
- Habitat for endangered species like the dugong and green turtle.
- Reef Types: Includes platform reefs, wall reefs, and fringing reefs.
- Protection Status:
- Managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
- Declared a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site in 1981.
- Mass Bleaching Years: Notable events occurred in 1998, 2002, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2025.
Coral Decline and Bleaching Events:
- Main Cause: Heat stress due to climate change, particularly during marine heatwaves.
- 2024 Event: Fifth major bleaching since 2016; had the widest spatial impact recorded in the Australian Institute of Marine Science’s 39-year monitoring program.
- Additional Damage: Cyclones (e.g., Cyclone Jasper) and flood plumes caused physical damage and freshwater stress.
- Biological Threats: Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks intensified coral predation, especially in the Swains sector.
- 2025 Survey Findings:
- 48% of 124 surveyed reefs showed coral decline.
- Only 10% recorded an increase in coral cover.
- Regional Impact: Southern Great Barrier Reef saw a 30.6% drop in hard coral cover—the sharpest annual decline ever recorded in that zone.
| [UPSC 2014] The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 0 C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 30 C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?
1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source. 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur. 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear. 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only |
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Why in the News?
Since 2013, over 5 billion starfish have died along North America’s Pacific coast due to a wasting disease now linked to Vibrio pectenicida, a cholera-related bacterium.
About Starfish (Sea Stars):
- Taxonomy: Belong to phylum Echinodermata; exclusively marine organisms.
- Species: Brisingida, Forcipulatida, Velatida, Valvatida, Spinuloside
- Body Structure:
- Radial symmetry (adults), bilateral symmetry (larvae)
- Calcareous exoskeleton for protection
- Water vascular system for respiration and circulation
- Unique Features:
- Regeneration: Can regrow lost limbs
- No blood or brain: Seawater circulates nutrients
- Eyespots: At arm tips, help sense light
- Tough skin: Made of calcium carbonate
- Feeding: Carnivorous, detritivorous, and scavengers
Reasons for Mass Deaths (2013–2025):
- Causal Agent: Identified in 2025 as Vibrio pectenicida, a bacterium related to cholera-causing strains.
- Symptoms: Limb detachment; Tissue disintegration; Melting into a pile of gunk.
- Most Affected Species: Sunflower sea stars, which saw a 90% population decline.
- Geographical Spread: Along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Mexico.
- Ecological Consequences:
- Starfish are keystone predators, especially of sea urchins.
- Their decline led to urchin population explosions, which overgrazed kelp forests.
- Resulted in biodiversity loss and reduced carbon sequestration.
| [UPSC 2012] Vultures which used to be very common in Indian countryside some years ago are rarely seen nowadays. This is attributed to:
(a) the destruction of their nesting sites by new invasive species disease among them (b) a drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle persistent and fatal (c) scarcity of food available to them (d) a widespread, persistent and fatal disease among them |
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Why in the News?
The 64th National Exhibition of Art (NEA), organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi, India’s National Academy of Art, was inaugurated in New Delhi.
About Lalit Kala Akademi:
- Establishment: Located in New Delhi, as an autonomous organisation.
- Inauguration: Launched on 5 August 1954 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the then Minister for Education.
- Legal Status: Granted statutory status in 1957 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
- Funding: Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
- Structure: Operates through the General Council, Executive Board, and various Committees.
- Regional Centres: Present in Chennai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Bhubaneswar, and Garhi (New Delhi).
- Functions:
- Scope of Work: Promotes modern, contemporary, folk, and tribal visual arts of India.
- Art Collection: Maintains a permanent collection of Indian visual art.
- International Role: Facilitates global cultural exchange through international cultural agreements.
Key Events and Initiatives:
- National Exhibition of Art: Annual flagship event since 1955, showcasing artists from across India.
- 64th Edition (2025): Held from 5 August to 15 September at Kamani Auditorium and Lalit Kala Art Galleries, New Delhi.
- Triennale India: Major international art exhibition featuring global artists.
- Print Biennale India: Dedicated to printmaking; 3rd edition scheduled for 2025–26.
- Artist Promotion: Provides platforms for both emerging and established artists; strengthens India’s soft power through cultural diplomacy.
| [UPSC 2009] Consider the following statements:
1. The National School of Drama was set up by Sangeet Natak Akademi in 1959.
2. The highest honour conferred by the Sahitya Akademi on a writer is by electing him its Fellow.
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?
Parliament has passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, replacing the nearly century-old Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925.
About Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025:
- Replaces: The colonial-era Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925.
- Purpose: Regulates the rights, duties, liabilities, and immunities of parties involved in shipping goods by sea from Indian ports to domestic or international destinations.
- International Alignment: Retains consistency with the Hague Rules (1924), which also formed the basis of the 1925 Act.
- Objective: Modernises maritime law in line with global standards and boosts India’s ease of doing business in the maritime sector.
Key Features:
- Bills of Lading Defined: It outlines the details of the shipment, including the type and quantity of goods, the origin and destination, and the terms of the agreement between the shipper and the carrier.
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- Includes details on goods’ type, quantity, condition, and destination.
- Serves as a legally binding contract between the shipper and carrier.
- Central Government Powers:
- May issue directions for implementation.
- Can amend the Schedule of Rules related to bills of lading.
- Part of Broader Maritime Reforms:
- Supports port development and coastal trade.
- Encourages creation of State Maritime Boards and a Maritime State Development Council.
- Covers port safety, disaster response, pollution control, and dispute resolution.
- Global Compliance: Aligns India’s shipping laws with evolving international conventions and practices.
| [UPSC 2016] The term ‘import cover’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to
(a) It is the ratio of value of imports to the Gross Domestic Product of a country
(b) It is the total value of imports of a country in a year
(c) It is the ratio between the value of exports and that of imports between two countries
(d) It is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s international reserves* |
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Why in the News?
India met its 20% ethanol blending (E20) target in petrol by March 2025 — five years early. Talks are now on to raise the blending ratio further in the immediate future.
About Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme:
- Launched in 2003 by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
- Objective: Promote use of renewable, domestically produced ethanol in petrol.
- Nationwide rollout (except A&N and Lakshadweep) since April 2019.
- Feedstock:
- 1G Ethanol: From sugarcane molasses, maize, rice.
- 2G Ethanol: From agricultural residues like rice straw, bamboo, bagasse.
- Blending Progress:
- 1.6% in 2013–14
- 11.8% in 2022–23
- 20% achieved in March 2025 (E20)
- Future Plans:
- Discussions on E27 blending target by 2030.
- Government exploring flex-fuel vehicles (e.g., E85-capable (dual-fuel) cars).
India’s Achievements:
- Environmental Gains: 19.2 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided (2014–2021).
- Economic Impact: ₹26,000 crore saved in foreign exchange via reduced oil imports.
- Industrial Growth:
- Distillery capacity scaled up with interest subvention support.
- Flex-fuel vehicles showcased by major automakers in 2025.
- Farmer Benefit: Creates demand for sugarcane and grains, increasing farm income.
Limitations:
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- Lower mileage with E20 due to reduced energy content.
- Older vehicles may face engine compatibility issues.
- Flex-fuel technology adoption still limited.
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- No drop in fuel prices despite ethanol savings.
- Consumer hesitation due to lack of visible benefits.
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- High land and water use for ethanol crops (especially sugarcane).
- Food security risks from diverting food crops for fuel.
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- Majority of ethanol still from sugarcane; limited 2G ethanol usage.
- Need to promote biomass-based ethanol (wood chips, crop residue).
| [UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements:
Statement I: Of the two major ethanol producers in the world, i.e., Brazil and the United States of America, the former produces more ethanol than the latter.
Statement II: Unlike in the United States of America where corn is the principal feedstock for ethanol production, sugarcane is the principal feedstock for ethanol production in Brazil.
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?
To align ancient Indian diets with modern nutrition, FSSAI and the Ministry of Ayush have released an official list of food items under the Ayurveda Aahara category.
About Ayurveda Aahara:
- Definition: Refers to food products based on Ayurvedic dietary principles—focused on balance, seasonality, and natural, therapeutic ingredients.
- Objective: Ensures standardisation, safety, and consumer trust in Ayurvedic dietary practices.
- Legal Framework: Regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s Ayurveda Aahara Regulations (2022).
- Textual Basis: Product list notified under Note (1) of Schedule B, grounded in classical Ayurvedic texts listed in Schedule A.
- Standards: Foods must follow authentic Ayurvedic recipes, ingredients, and preparation methods.
- New Product Inclusion: Food Business Operators (FBOs) can propose additions by citing authoritative Ayurvedic sources.
- Institutional Support: Endorsed by the National Institute of Ayurveda and the Ministry of Ayush; the Ayush Aahara Compendium offers scientifically validated formulations for industry use.
Significance:
- Health Benefits: Supports preventive health, digestion, and immunity through time-tested dietary wisdom.
- Cultural Revival: Reconnects with India’s ancient food traditions, including those from the Sangam era; recognised globally alongside Yoga and Millets.
- Regulatory Clarity: Provides structured guidelines to manufacturers, enabling ease of business and consumer confidence in authenticity.
| [UPSC 2017] Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’?
1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women.
3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.
4. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only* (b) 1, 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 3 and 4 only |
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Why in the News?
India’s Mutual Fund (MF) industry has witnessed exponential growth, with Assets Under Management (AUM) reaching ₹74.40 lakh crore as of June 2025, a sevenfold increase over the past decade.
What are Assets Under Management (AUM)?
- Definition: AUM refers to the total market value of financial assets (stocks, bonds, etc.) managed by an investment firm on behalf of clients.
- Growth Drivers:
- Net investor inflows and redemptions
- Market performance
- Dividend reinvestments
- Importance:
- Indicates fund size, investor confidence, and fund stability
- Reflects fund manager performance and popularity
- Higher AUM allows better liquidity and portfolio diversification
- Impacts management fees and minimum investment limits
What is a Mutual Fund?
- Definition: A mutual fund pools money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio.
- Management: Handled by professional fund managers to balance risk and return.
- Unit-Based Investment: Investors purchase fund units; each unit’s value is called the Net Asset Value (NAV), which changes with market movement.
Classification of Mutual Funds
a. Based on Asset Class:
- Equity Funds: Invest in stocks; includes large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.
- Debt Funds: Invest in bonds and other fixed-income instruments.
- Hybrid Funds: Mix of equity and debt for balanced risk-return.
b. Based on Investment Objective:
- Growth Funds: Focus on capital appreciation; suitable for long-term investors.
- Income Funds: Aim for regular income via bonds/dividends.
- Liquid Funds: Invest in short-term debt; low risk and high liquidity.
- Tax-saving Funds (Equity Linked Savings Scheme): Offer Section 80C tax benefits; equity-focused.
- Pension Funds: Meant for retirement; long-term return-focused.
c. Based on Structure:
- Open-ended Funds: Investors can enter or exit anytime; highly liquid.
- Closed-ended Funds: Fixed maturity; investments only during the initial offer period.
- Interval Funds: Allow purchase/redemption only at specific intervals.
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| [UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements:
I. India accounts for a very large portion of all equity option contracts traded globally, thus exhibiting a great boom. II. India’s stock market has grown rapidly in the recent past, even overtaking Hong Kong’s at some point in time. III. There is no regulatory body either to warn small investors about the risks of options trading or to act on unregistered financial advisors in this regard.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) I and II only * (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) I, II and III |
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