From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Pamban Bridge
The newly constructed Pamban Bridge was inaugurated by PM Modi to replace a 110-year-old structure that connected Rameswaram to the Indian mainland.
Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: CAPTCHA
This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in The Hindu.
| [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements: A digital signature is
1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it 2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or server on Internet. 3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Undersea Cables
India is gradually expanding its undersea cable infrastructure, with new systems like Airtel’s 2Africa Pearls and SEA-ME-WE-6 boosting its international internet bandwidth.
What are Undersea Cables?
|
| [UPSC 2016] With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It uses light as the medium for high speed data transmission. 2. It is wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Exercise INDRA 2025
The bilateral naval exercise INDRA 2025 between the Indian and Russian navies was held from 28 March to 02 April 2025.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Ramakien Murals
The Prime Minister has highlighted the release of iStamp depicting Ramakien mural paintings by Thai Government.
India-Thailand Cultural ConnectHistorical and Cultural Ties:
Modern Diplomatic and Cultural Relations:
Recent Initiatives:
|
| [UPSC 2010] There are only two known examples of cave paintings of the Gupta period in ancient India. One of these is paintings of Ajanta Caves. Where is the other surviving example of Gupta paintings?
(a) Bagh Caves (b) Ellora Caves (c) Lomas Rishi caves (d) Nasik Caves |
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: GI Tags in news
Recently, several Geographical Indication (GI) tags have been awarded to unique products, enhancing their protection in the market and giving them a platform for global recognition.
Here is the list of all the GI tags recently Awarded:
| State | Product Name | Description |
| Meghalaya | Ryndia (Meghalaya Handloom Products) | Ryndia is an eco-friendly fabric made from Ahimsa Silk by indigenous Khasi, Bhoi, and Jaintia artisans. Known for its durability and luxurious texture, Ryndia is used to make stoles, shawls, and garments with organic dyes from local plants. |
| Kerala | Kannadippaya | A traditional tribal handicraft made from the inner layers of reed bamboo. This mat, known for its reflective pattern, provides a cooling effect in summer and warmth during winter. It is woven by various tribal communities, including the Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, and Kadar tribes, primarily in the Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad districts of Kerala. |
| Tamil Nadu | Panruti Cashew | This cashew variety is celebrated for its mildly sweet, nutty flavor and its crisp yet tender texture. Grown primarily in Panruti, Tamil Nadu, it has a high demand both domestically and internationally, setting it apart from other cashew varieties due to its unique taste and texture. |
| Panruti Jackfruit | The Panruti jackfruit is a prized agricultural product from Panruti, where commercial cultivation is concentrated. Known for its large size and distinctive flavor, it is available throughout the year, with different varieties ripening at different times. The jackfruit is widely used for making chips, curries, and sweets and has potential for value-added products. | |
| Chettikulam Small Onion | Grown in the Aalathur block of Perambalur district, this small onion variety is an important crop in Tamil Nadu, known for its strong aroma and robust flavor. Over 8,000 hectares in the district are dedicated to small onion cultivation, producing 65,000 to 70,000 tonnes annually. This variety is integral to local cooking and is used in various dishes, offering a unique flavor to regional cuisine. | |
| Puliyangudi Acid Lime | Known as the Lemon City of Tamil Nadu, Puliyangudi produces acid lime that is small to medium-sized (4–6 cm in diameter) with a vibrant green color and thin, smooth skin. The limes are famous for their tangy taste and are widely used in cooking, especially in Southern Tamil Nadu and Kerala, as well as for producing lime juice and lime-based products. | |
| Virudhunagar Samba Vathal | These bright red, spicy sambal chilies from Virudhunagar are renowned for their distinct flavor and are a crucial ingredient in Southern Indian cuisine. They are often used in the oleoresin extraction process, which plays a significant role in the spice industry. | |
| Ramanadu Chithiraikar Rice | A red rice variety from Ramanadu, this rice is known for its ability to keep hunger at bay for hours, making it a staple in many households. The rice is commonly consumed as a hearty porridge and is recognized for its nutritional value and ability to provide long-lasting energy. | |
| Kumbakonam Betel Leaf | Grown in the fertile Cauvery River basin, Kumbakonam Betel Leaf is known for its distinct taste and aroma. It is used in the preparation of paan and as a symbol of hospitality in the region. | |
| West Bengal | Thovalai Flower Garland | A handcrafted floral garland made from a mix of white, red, and green flowers, Thovalai Flower Garland is used for festivals and special occasions. It is woven in a mat-like fashion and is celebrated for its artistic beauty. |
| Murshidabad Chhanobora | This sweet from Murshidabad is made from chhena (curdled milk) and flavored with cardamom. It is known for its smooth texture and distinct taste, being a traditional treat prepared during festivals and significant occasions. | |
| Bishnupur Motichur Laddu | A traditional Bengali sweet laddu, made from finely ground chickpeas, sugar, and ghee. It has a delicate, aromatic flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali. Its historical roots trace back to the Bishnupur region, known for its unique preparation methods. | |
| Kamarpukur Sada Bode | A fried Bengali sweet, Kamarpukur Sada Bode is made from wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. It is an important part of Bengali festivals and local traditions, valued for its crisp texture and sweet, rich taste. | |
| Malda Nistari Silk Yarn | Known for its fine texture, durability, and the intricate traditional weaving techniques used, Malda Nistari Silk Yarn is produced in Malda, Bengal. This silk is highly sought after for its luxurious feel and is used for making high-quality garments. | |
| Radhunipagal Rice | A local variety of rice from Bengal, Radhunipagal is known for its resilient texture and ability to stay filling for extended periods, making it perfect for hearty meals. This rice is a staple in many traditional Bengali dishes. | |
| Baruipur Guava | Baruipur Guava, grown in the fertile soil of West Bengal, is known for its distinct taste and texture. The fruit has a sweet flavor and is used in juices, jams, and desserts. | |
| Jammu and Kashmir
|
Kashmir Namda | A woolen rug from Kashmir, Namda is known for its thick texture and intricate designs. Traditionally crafted by hand using sheep wool, it is prized for its insulating properties and is a significant part of Kashmir’s textile heritage. |
| Kashmir Gabba | A traditional woolen product from Kashmir, Gabba is used in home decor and textiles. It is made using local wool and features intricate handwoven patterns. | |
| Kashmir Willow Bat | Kashmir Willow is used for making high-quality cricket bats, known for their lightweight and durable properties, making it a sought-after material for professional cricket bats. | |
| Kashmir Tweed | Kashmir Tweed is a finely woven fabric, made from wool, and is renowned for its warmth and luxury. It has been traditionally used to make winter garments, particularly coats and shawls. | |
| Kashmir Crewel | A hand-embroidered fabric from Kashmir, Crewel features intricate floral designs and is traditionally used in making home textiles like curtains, bedspreads, and cushions. | |
| Kashmir Chain Stitch | A traditional embroidery technique from Kashmir, Chain Stitch is used to create decorative textiles. The embroidery is vibrant, with floral patterns, and is used in making garments and home furnishings. | |
| Kashmir Shikara | The Shikara is a traditional boat from Kashmir used primarily for tourism and transportation in the Dal Lake. It is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich heritage and has been part of the region’s culture for centuries. | |
| Kashmir Wagguv | Wagguv is a traditional handcrafted product from Kashmir, made using local materials and is known for its unique craftsmanship and cultural significance in the region. |
| [UPSC 2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ Status?
(1) Banaras Brocades and Sarees (2) Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma (3) Tirupathi Laddu 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 |
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Tripitaka
Prime Minister was presented with ‘The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition’ by his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in a diplomatic exchange.
| Focus | Key Components | Key Teachings | |
Vinaya Pitaka |
Governs the rules and regulations for the monastic community (Sangha), focusing on the conduct of monks and nuns. | • Suttavibhanga: The primary text detailing the rules for monks and nuns, including disciplinary measures.
• Khandhaka: A collection of regulations governing the monastic community’s daily life, organizational structure, and interactions. • Parivara: A summary and analysis of the rules and their interpretations. • Discusses issues related to ordination, monastic vows, and the ethical conduct of monks and nuns. |
• Establishes a structured framework for maintaining the monastic order.
• Focus on ethical behavior, discipline, and the proper conduct necessary for spiritual growth. • Importance of the community and the harmonious living of monks and nuns. |
Sutta Pitaka |
Contains the discourses delivered by the Buddha, covering various topics like morality, meditation, and wisdom. | • Digha Nikaya: The long discourses of the Buddha, including topics on ethics, meditation, and cosmology.
• Majjhima Nikaya: Middle-length discourses, often addressing common people and their concerns, focusing on practical aspects of the Buddha’s teachings. • Samyutta Nikaya: Connected discourses grouped by topics like impermanence, suffering, and dependent origination. • Anguttara Nikaya: A collection of numerical discourses, categorized by numbers (e.g., 3, 4, 5), addressing practical guidelines for daily living. • Khuddaka Nikaya: A minor collection of texts, including the Dhammapada, Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s past lives), Therigatha, and others. |
• Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as central teachings for achieving liberation from suffering.
• Instructions on ethical living, mental cultivation, and the development of wisdom. • Stories of the Buddha’s past lives, which serve to teach moral lessons and virtues. • Provides practical teachings for both monastics and laypeople on how to live a life conducive to enlightenment. |
Abhidhamma Pitaka |
A detailed systematic analysis of the Buddha’s teachings, providing a philosophical and psychological examination of Buddhist concepts. | • Dhammasangani: A classification of mental and physical phenomena, offering an in-depth analysis of mental states and experience.
• Vibhanga: Provides a detailed analysis of various doctrines, including virtues, meditation practices, and psychological states. • Puggalapannatti: Describes different types of persons and their spiritual progress, from ordinary beings to enlightened ones. • Kathavatthu: A collection of doctrinal debates that addresses differences between early Buddhist schools, offering clarification on certain teachings. • Yamaka: A set of questions and answers that explores complex doctrinal points in pairs of opposites. • Patthana: Describes conditional relations between phenomena, offering a complex framework for understanding dependent origination. |
• Mind and consciousness: Detailed study of the nature of the mind, its states, and interactions with the physical world.
• Causality and the law of dependent origination (paticca-samuppada), explaining how phenomena arise and cease based on conditions. • Analytical psychology: Explores the workings of the human mind, including perception, cognition, and emotion. • Explores the relationship between mental and physical processes and provides an advanced understanding of reality and experience. • Essential for understanding advanced Buddhist philosophy and psychology. |
| [UPSC 2024] Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth century AD, was the author of a commentary on:
(a) Prajnaparamita Sutra (b) Visuddhimagga (c) Sarvastivada Vinaya (d) Lalitavistra |
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Vijayanagara Empire
A set of copper plates from the early 15th Century, dating back to the reign of Devaraya I of the Sangama Dynasty, were recently unveiled by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
About the Sangama Dynasty
Notable Rulers
Downfall
|
| [UPSC 2023] Who among the following rulers of Vijayanagara Empire constructed a large dam across Tungabhadra River and a canal-cum-aqueduct several kilometres long from the river to the capital city?
(a) Devaraya I (b) Mallikarjuna (c) Vira Vijaya (d) Virupaksha |
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Green Credit Programme
The Green Credit Programme (GCP), launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2023, was questioned by the Ministry of Law and Justice regarding the legality of its business model.
| [UPSC 2009] In the context of C02 emission and Global Warming, what is the name of a market driven device under the UNFCC that allows developing countries to get funds/incentives from the developed countries to adopt, better technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
(a) Carbon Footprint (b) Carbon Credit Rating (c) Clean Development Mechanism (d) Emission Reduction Norm |
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Evolution of RBI's Monetary Policy
The first monetary policy of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra in 2025 marks 90 years since the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its inaugural monetary policy in 1935.
RBI’s First Monetary Policy in 1935
Evolution of RBI’s Monetary Policy
|
Dr. Ambedkar’s Role in the Establishment of RBI:
|
| [UPSC 2004] Consider the following statements:
1. Reserve Bank of India was nationalized on 26 January 1950. 2. The borrowing programme of the Government of India is handled by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. 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 |
