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Type: Prelims Only

  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Taliban to revive Bamiyan Buddha

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    Two decades since the demolition of Bamiyan Buddha, the Afghan Taliban are now convinced to restore it.

    Taliban to revive Bamiyan Buddha

    About Bamiyan Buddha:

    • The Bamiyan Buddhas were located in the Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan, about 130 km northwest of Kabul.
    • The Western Buddha (Salsal) stood 55 meters tall, and the Eastern Buddha (Shah Mama) stood 38 meters tall, making them two of the largest standing Buddha statues in the world before their destruction.
    • Construction:
      • Built around 600 CE during the rule of the Hephthalites.
      • Carved directly into sandstone cliffs with features made from mud and straw, and painted with bright colors, including carmine red for the larger Buddha.
      • The style blends Greco-Buddhist art, Sasanian Persia, and Byzantine Empire influences.
    • Historical Significance:
      • Represented Vairocana and Sakyamuni (Gautama Buddha).
      • Served as a major Buddhist religious centre along the Silk Road, hosting monasteries and playing a crucial role in religion, philosophy, and art.
      • Survived invasions, including by Genghis Khan (1221 AD) and Aurangzeb (17th Century).
    • In 2001, the Taliban destroyed the statues. The Buddhas had previously survived multiple attacks.
    • The site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its immense historical, religious, and cultural significance.
    [UPSC 2014] Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?

    1. Avanti 2. Gandhara 3. Kosala 4. Magadha

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 3 and 4 only * (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

     

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  • Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

    Akshvi Platform for Disaster Damage Reporting

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Why in the News?

    India has introduced Akshvi, a unique e-digital wallet aimed at assisting in disaster relief and improving the accuracy of loss reporting.

    About Akshvi: The E-Digital Wallet for Disasters

    • Akshvi (Aapda Kshati Vivaran) is a unique e-digital wallet developed by SEEDS India to assist disaster-stricken communities in India.
    • The platform allows people to self-report economic and non-economic losses during climate-induced events.
    • It bridges the data gap in disaster reporting and enhancing relief distribution and climate resilience.

    Key Features of Akshvi:

    • Self-Reporting Mechanism: It enables affected communities to log their losses during disasters such as floods, droughts, heatwaves, and landslides, ensuring accurate and timely assessments.
    • Localized Data Collection: The platform collects hyperlocal data, which is vital for tailoring disaster management strategies and relief efforts to the specific needs of affected communities.
    • User-Friendly Interface:
      • IVRS: Allows voice recording of losses.
      • WhatsApp Chatbot: For tech-savvy users to log data.
      • Assisted Data Entry: Available for those needing help with information entry.
    • Traceability: The platform tracks the progress of relief, ensuring that aid reaches the affected households transparently.
    • Integration with Government Schemes: Akshvi’s data links to social welfare schemes and index-based insurance programs, improving disaster response efforts.
    [UPSC 2004] In which one of the following countries did hundreds of people die in 2004 due to Tropical Storm Jeanne?

    Options: (a) Colombia  (b) Haiti (c) Sudan (d) Ghana

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Role of Lipids in Protein Function and Co-Evolution

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    New research by CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad suggest that lipids (along with DNA), particularly in mitochondrial membranes, are not just structural elements but play an integral role in the function and evolution of proteins.

    About Lipids and RC1 in Cells:

    Lipids:

    • Lipids, including fats, phospholipids, and sterols, make up to 30% of the dry weight of cells.
    • They are crucial for membrane integrity and various biological processes.
    • They vary in fatty acid composition and length, influenced by genetics, diet, and environmental factors.
    • They form a bilayer in membranes, with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails inward, providing stability and enabling protein function.
    • Role of Lipids in Cells:
      • Lipids form the bilayer, providing flexibility and stability for membrane proteins that perform functions like receptor binding and ion channelling.
      • They like cardiolipin stabilize RC1 and other respiratory complexes, aiding energy production.

    RC1 (Respiratory Complex 1):

    • RC1 is a protein complex in the mitochondrial membrane, crucial for cellular respiration and energy production.
    • It is composed of 44 proteins, some synthesized in the cytoplasm and others in mitochondria.
    • Mutations in RC1 lead to diseases due to its vital role in respiration.

    Lipid-Protein Co-evolution as per new Research:

    • New research highlights the co-evolution of proteins and lipids, especially in mitochondrial membranes, where proteins interact with specific lipids from their own kingdom (plant or animal).
    • Plant lipids, richer in polyunsaturated fatty acids, are more flexible, aiding stress resistance, while animal lipids evolve differently to meet their needs.
    • Lipid-protein co-evolution adds complexity to cellular evolution, with implications for human health and disease treatment.
    [UPSC 2001] Which of the following cell organelles play the most significant role in protein synthesis?

    Options: (a) Lysosome and Centrosome (b) Endoplasmic reticulum and Ribosome* (c) Golgi apparatus and Mitochondria (d) Lysosome and Mitochondria

     

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  • Article 355 of the Indian Constitution

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    A recent petition in the Supreme Court has sought the invocation of Article 355 in West Bengal by deploying central armed forces, citing violence in Murshidabad.

    Recent Case:

    • Following violent protests in Murshidabad district against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, a petition was filed to invoke Article 355 in West Bengal.
    • The petitioner argued that the state was experiencing internal disturbances warranting Union intervention.​
    • The Court declined to pass immediate directions but allowed the petitioner to file a detailed application for further consideration. ​

    What is Article 355?

    • Article 355 mandates that the Union Government has the duty to protect every state against external aggression and internal disturbances and ensure that the state governments function in accordance with the Constitution.
    • It places responsibilities on the Union Government to maintain constitutional governance in all states.
    • It is often used alongside Article 356 to declare President’s Rule in a state.
    • It does NOT grant separate powers; instead, it operates in conjunction with Article 356 and Article 357.
    • Initially introduced as Article 277A in the Draft Constitution (1949), it clarified the Union’s role in intervening in state matters during exceptional circumstances.
    • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar emphasised that such intervention should not be arbitrary but based on constitutional obligations.
    • Judicial Interpretations:
      1. H.S. Jain v. Union of India (1996): The Supreme Court held that the Union is obligated under Article 355 to ensure state governments operate in line with the Constitution, quashing a state emergency declared under Article 356.
      2. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994): The Court ruled that President’s Rule under Article 356 should be used sparingly and only when Union intervention is justified.
      3. Sarbananda Sonowal v. Union of India (2005): The Court upheld Union intervention under Article 355 due to illegal migration but cautioned against its use without substantial evidence.
    Note: Article 355 does NOT grant separate powers; instead, it operates in conjunction with Articles 356 and 357.

    • Article 356 allows the President to impose President’s Rule in a state if the governance in that state is not in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
    • Article 357 authorizes the President to extend the powers of the Union government to a state under President’s Rule and allows the Union government to exercise executive authority in the state.

     

    [UPSC 2003] Which one of the following Articles of the Indian Constitution provides that ‘It shall be the duty of the Union to protect every State against external aggression and internal disturbance’?

    Options: (a) Article 215 (b) Article 275 (c) Article 325 (d) Article 355*

     

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    LEDA 1313424: The Bullseye Galaxy

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope recently discovered the Bullseye Galaxy (LEDA 1313424), which contains 9 rings, an unprecedented number.

    This finding offers new insights into galaxy evolution and the possibility of the galaxy evolving into a Giant Low Surface Brightness (GLSB) galaxy.

    Bullseye Galaxy

    About the Bullseye Galaxy (LEDA 1313424):

    • The Bullseye Galaxy is unique for containing 9 rings, an unprecedented number in the study of ringed galaxies.
    • Most ringed galaxies typically have 2 or 3 rings, making this discovery significant.
    • The rings are believed to have formed after a collision with a blue dwarf galaxy about 50 million years ago, causing ripples in the gas and creating star-forming regions that became the rings.
    • While individual stars’ orbits stayed the same, groups of stars gathered, forming distinct rings over time.
    • This discovery offers valuable insights into galaxy interactions and the rare formation of multiple rings.

    What are Giant Low Surface Brightness (GLSB) Galaxies?

    • GLSB Galaxies are large, diffuse galaxies with low surface brightness and fewer stars than typical galaxies, making them appear dimmer.
    • These galaxies contain vast hydrogen disks, the fuel for star formation, but their low hydrogen density prevents many stars from forming.
    • GLSB galaxies are believed to contain significant amounts of dark matter, affecting their mass distribution.
    • They have less dense inner regions and challenge current cosmological models due to their hydrogen content and low surface brightness.

    Bullseye Galaxy and Its Possible Evolution into a GLSB Galaxy:

    • It shares traits with GLSB galaxies, such as its extended disk and hydrogen content.
    • Researchers suggest that the Bullseye Galaxy might evolve into a GLSB galaxy, providing insights into the formation of such galaxies and the distribution of dark matter in the universe.
    [UPSC 2018] Consider the following phenomena:

    1. Light is affected by gravity. 2. The Universe is constantly expanding. 3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.

    Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in the media?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    What is a Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG)?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    NASA scientists have proposed using quantum technology to study gravitational changes on Earth by deploying a quantum gravity gradiometer (QGG) on a satellite in low-Earth orbit.

    About Gravity Gradiometer & Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG):

    • A gravity gradiometer measures small variations in gravitational force over short distances.
    • How It Works: It detects differences in the acceleration of falling objects, indicating the density of materials below the surface, such as hydrocarbon deposits or geological structures.
    • Applications:
      • Oil Exploration: Detects underground hydrocarbon deposits by measuring gravitational differences.
      • Geological Studies: Used to explore subterranean features like minerals and fault lines.
    • A Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG) uses quantum technology to achieve much higher precision than traditional gravity gradiometers.
      • How It Works: Atoms are cooled to near absolute zero and manipulated with lasers. The phase shifts of these atoms, proportional to gravitational force, detect tiny changes in gravitational acceleration.
      • It can detect changes as small as 10^-15 m/s² over just 1 meter, offering much finer measurements than traditional instruments.
    • Specifications: Weighs 125 kg, has a volume like a 250-liter oil drum, and consumes 350 watts of power (comparable to an older Intel CPU).

    Applications of QGG in Space:

    • Studying Gravitational Variations: Measures small changes in Earth’s gravitational field, aiding climate change studies, such as melting ice caps and shifting water reserves.
    • Earth’s Gravitational Field Mapping: Improves understanding of Earth’s internal structure and seismic activities.
    • Dark Matter Research: Provides insights into dark matter by detecting gravitational anomalies.
    • Satellite Navigation: Enhances space navigation and satellite positioning.
    • Mapping Underground Features: Used to map structures like mineral deposits and fault lines.
    • Security: Detects underground structures like military bunkers and natural disasters, offering valuable security information.
    [UPSC 2003] If the radius of the Earth were to shrink by one per cent, its mass remaining the same, the value of ‘g’ on the Earth’s surface would:

    Options: (a) Increase by 0.5% (b) Increase by 2% (c) Decrease by 0.5% (d) Decrease by 2%

     

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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Tunnel

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Tunnel

    Why in the News?

    India has marked a significant achievement in its railway infrastructure development with the “tunnel breakthrough” of Tunnel No. 8 on the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Line.

    Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Tunnel

    About Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Tunnel:

    • Tunnel No. 8 is a major part of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway project, spanning 14.58 km, making it the longest transport tunnel under construction in India.
    • The tunnel is the first railway tunnel in the Himalayan region to use a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) (combining with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM)) which reduces environmental disruption and increases efficiency compared to traditional blasting methods.
    • It is located on the Devprayag to Janasu stretch, which is part of the larger Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway line project in Uttarakhand.
    • It is part of a larger plan to build a 125.20 km rail link, with 83% of the line to be tunnelled.
    • It will feature 12 new stations, 16 tunnels, and 19 bridges across five districts of Uttarakhand.
    • Safety measures include 12 escape tunnels and 7.05 km of cross passages to ensure passenger safety in case of emergencies.
    • This link will significantly improve connectivity to Uttarakhand’s hilly areas, reduce travel time, and boost economic activity in the region.
    [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements concerning the Indian Railways:

    1. The Head Quarters of the North Western Railway are located at Jodhpur.

    2. ‘Indrail pass’ – a travel-as-you-please ticket has been created especially for freedom fighters and sportspersons who have represented India in any game/sport.

    3. Fairy Queen is a train using the world’s oldest working engine and the Indian Railways conduct a journey of wildlife and heritage sites on it.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 (d) None*

     

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Comprehensive Remote Sensing Observation on Crop Progress (CROP)

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    The ISRO through its CROP remote sensing framework, has estimated that the total wheat production from eight major wheat-growing states will reach 122.724 million tonnes by March 31, 2025.

    About CROP:

    • CROP is a semi-automated and scalable framework developed by ISRO’s National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC).
    • The primary goal of CROP is to provide a real-time view of the sowing, growth, and harvest progress of crops, especially wheat during the Rabi season.
    • CROP utilizes data from multi-source remote sensing satellites to monitor agricultural areas across India.
    • Technological Components of CROP:
      1. EOS-04 (RISAT-1A): Provides Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data for crop monitoring, especially under varied weather conditions.
      2. EOS-06 (Oceansat-3): Offers optical remote sensing data for agricultural monitoring.
      3. Resourcesat-2A: Used for high-resolution optical imaging, focusing on agricultural areas for precise crop monitoring.

    Key Features of the Study:

    • The study used a combination of SAR and optical data to accurately assess crop progress during the 2024-25 Rabi season.
    • The wheat sown area, as of March 31, 2025, stands at 330.8 lakh hectares, which is in line with the figures reported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (324.38 lakh hectares as of February 4, 2025).
    • Wheat production in the eight major wheat-growing states is estimated to be 122.724 million tonnes by March 31, 2025, based on the data gathered through the remote sensing method.
    [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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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Science behind Uterine Transplants

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Uterine transplant surgery offers a groundbreaking solution for women with absolute uterine infertility, as seen in the recent birth of the first child in the U.K. born to a mother who received a donated uterus.

    About Uterine Transplants:

    • Uterine transplantation is a surgical procedure where a woman who lacks a functional uterus receives a donor uterus, enabling her to carry and give birth to a child.
    • The transplant is typically temporary, allowing for one or two pregnancies, after which the uterus is usually removed to avoid complications.
    • Donor Criteria:
      • Age: Between 30 to 50 years.
      • Health: Must be in good overall health, with a BMI under 30, and no history of diabetes, cancer (within 5 years), or STIs.
      • Exclusions: Women with HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or other complications.
    • The procedure requires gynecological transplant surgeons with specific training. A 6-month recovery period is needed before attempting pregnancy.

    Indian Scenario:

    • India’s first transplant was performed on May 18, 2017, at Galaxy Care Hospital in Pune. The recipient was a 26-year-old woman who received her mother’s uterus.
    • In October 2018, India’s first baby was born via Caesarean section, weighing 1.45 kg and healthy.
    • This success story reflects India’s growing capabilities in reproductive medicine, providing hope to women with uterine infertility, offering them an opportunity for biological motherhood.
    [UPSC 2020] In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, “Pronuclear Transfer” is used for:

    Options: (a) fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm (b) genetic modification of sperm producing cells (c) development of stem cells into functional embryos (d) prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring

     

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  • Indian Air Force Updates

    Exercise Desert Flag 10

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Why in the News?

    Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has recently departed for the Desert Flag-10 exercise, being held at the Al Dhafra air base in the UAE.

    About Exercise Desert Flag:

    • Exercise Desert Flag is a multi-nation air combat exercise held at Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE.
    • It offers participating air forces the opportunity to engage in complex fighter operations and enhance combat capabilities in a collaborative environment.
    • Focus Areas: Fighter engagements, interoperability, and the exchange of operational knowledge.
    • Participants: Air forces from United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Turkey, and India.

    Significance of the Exercise:

    • Improving Interoperability: Enhances the ability of air forces from different nations to work together seamlessly, sharing information and responding to regional security challenges.
    • Learning from Global Air Forces: Provides the IAF with exposure to advanced combat tactics and air defence technologies from the world’s top air forces.
    • Diplomatic and Strategic Influence: India’s participation underscores its role in global security and enhances its defence diplomacy.
    [UPSC 2008] Hand-in-Hand 2007’, a joint anti-terrorism military training was held by the officers of the Indian Army and officers of the Army of which one of the following countries?

    Options: (a) China * (b) Japan (c) Russia (d) USA

     

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