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Type: Prelims Only

  • 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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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    Why is Europe warming faster?

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 European State of the Climate Report shows Europe warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with significant regional variations due to human-driven climate change.

    European State of the Climate Report: Key Highlights  

    • 2024 as the Warmest Year: The year 2024 was recorded as the warmest year ever, not just globally but for Europe as well, with Eastern Europe experiencing particularly high temperatures.
    • East-West Contrast: While Eastern Europe enjoyed sunny and warm conditions, Western Europe was cloudier and wetter, highlighting the regional differences in climate impact.
    • Southeastern Europe Heatwave: Countries like Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Kosovo, and Serbia faced their longest heatwave on record, adding to the already extreme conditions.

    Reasons Behind Europe’s Higher Rate of Warming:

    • Proximity to the Arctic Region: A large part of Europe lies within the Arctic region, where warming is three to four times faster than the global average, driving higher temperatures in Europe.
    • Albedo Effect: The melting of Arctic ice exposes darker surfaces (land and water) that absorb more solar radiation, accelerating warming in Europe.
    • Reduction in Aerosols: Decreasing aerosol emissions in Europe allow more solar radiation to reach the Earth’s surface, contributing to faster warming.
    • Land-Based Warming: Europe’s land areas warm faster than oceans, triggering extreme weather like heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
    • Global Climate Dynamics: Europe’s geographical and atmospheric conditions make it more susceptible to climate change effects compared to other regions.
    [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.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Coenzyme Q: A Vital Molecule for Energy Production

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

    Why in the News?

    A recent paper published in Nature by a team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences explored the genetic modification of rice plants to increase Coenzyme CoQ10 production.

    What are Coenzymes and CoQ?

    • Enzymes are biological catalysts made of proteins that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.
    • Coenzymes are organic molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing biochemical reactions, making cellular metabolism more efficient.
    • Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant that helps stabilize cells under stress. It is crucial for cellular energy production.
    • CoQ exists in 10 forms (CoQ1 to CoQ10), all present in the respiratory chain within cells.

    Importance of CoQ9 and CoQ10

    • CoQ9: It is found in cereal crops (wheat, rice, oats, barley, etc.), bamboo, and flowering plants like cinnamon, avocado, and pepper. It is rich in daily foods, making it an accessible nutrient.
    • CoQ10: It is vital for mitochondrial energy production. Concentrated in high-energy organs like the heart. CoQ10 is crucial for health, especially in those with neurological issues or age-related deficiencies.
    • Health Benefits of CoQ10:
      • 2008: CoQ10 supplementation helped patients with neurological disorders, improving their health (Montini et al., Milan).
      • 2012: Infants with CoQ10 deficiency benefitted from ubiquinone analogues (Shamima Ahmed, London).
    • CoQ10-based supplements are now commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals.
    [UPSC 2007] Question: Which one of the following is not a digestive enzyme in the human system?

    Options: (a) Trypsin (b) Gastrin* (c) Pepsin (d) Amylase

     

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    50 years since the launch of Aryabhata 

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Aryabhata

    Why in the News?

    50 years ago on April 19, 1975, India marked a major milestone in its space history with the successful launch of Aryabhata, its first satellite.

    About Aryabhata

    • Aryabhata, India’s first satellite, was launched on April 19, 1975, with Soviet assistance from the Kapustin Yar Cosmodrome.
    • Named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata, the satellite was a significant milestone in India’s space journey.
    • It had a unique 26-sided polyhedron design, measuring 1.4 meters in diameter and weighing 360 kg.
    • The satellite’s faces were covered with solar panels, except for the top and bottom.
    • Aryabhata orbited the Earth every 96.3 minutes with an inclination of 50.7 degrees, and its apogee and perigee were 619 km and 563 km, respectively.
    • Its mission was to conduct experiments in solar physics and X-ray astronomy.
    • Despite experiencing a power failure after 5 days, Aryabhata continued transmitting data for several more days, completing a remarkable 17 years in orbit.
    • This success was pivotal for India, establishing the country’s space capabilities.

    Inception of India’s Space Program:

    • India’s space program began in the 1960s, led by Vikram Sarabhai, the founder of ISRO.
    • Sarabhai envisioned a space program to advance technological and scientific progress in India.
    • Initial efforts included developing sounding rockets under the Rohini rocket program for atmospheric research.
    • In 1972, India partnered with the Soviet Union for the launch of Aryabhata, marking the nation’s entry into space.

     

    [UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:

    1. In the year 2006, India successfully tested a full-fledged cryogenic stage in rocketry.

    2. After USA, Russia and China, India is the only country to have acquired the capability for use of cryogenic stage in rocketry.

    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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  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Salient Features Of World’S Physical Geography

    Why in the News?

    A hidden landmass, called the Davis Strait proto-microcontinent, has been discovered beneath the icy waters between Canada’s Baffin Island and Greenland.

    About the Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent:

    • The Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent is a hypothesised landmass located in the Davis Strait, believed to have existed during the Paleozoic era.
    • It is composed of 19–24 km thick thinned continental crust, surrounded by two narrow bands of 15–17 km thick continental crust.
    • It is thought to have broken apart due to tectonic movements.
    • Geological evidence, including similarities in rock formations and tectonic features found in Greenland and parts of the Canadian Arctic, supports the idea of this ancient landmass.
    • While its exact nature and extent remain debated, the proto-microcontinent is crucial for understanding the tectonic processes that shaped the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding regions.

    About Davis Strait:

    • The Davis Strait is a large body of water located between southeastern Baffin Island (Canada) and southwestern Greenland, serving as part of the Northwest Passage.
    • It separates the Baffin Bay (to the north) from the Labrador Sea (to the south), and it connects the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Ocean through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
    • It is an important maritime route for shipping and trade.
    • Named after John Davis, the English explorer who navigated the area in the late 16th century, the Davis Strait plays a significant role in the tectonic evolution of the Arctic region.
    [UPSC 2013] Consider the following:

    (1). Electromagnetic radiation (2). Geothermal energy (3). Gravitational force (4). Plate movements (5). Rotation of the earth (6). Revolution of the earth

    Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth?

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

     

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  • Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

    Recycling Perovskite Solar Cells

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

    Why in the News?

    Recent advancements in recycling perovskite solar cells have led to a new water-based solution, offering a more sustainable and efficient approach to solar energy production.

    About Perovskite Solar Cells:

    • Perovskite solar cells are made using a perovskite crystal structure, offering high power conversion efficiencies and low manufacturing costs compared to traditional silicon-based panels.
    • They are lightweight, flexible, and made from inexpensive materials, making them a promising alternative in the solar energy market.
    • While efficient, they have a shorter lifespan and contain toxic materials like lead, posing environmental risks during disposal.
    • Used in solar power generation, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems due to their affordability and performance.

    The New Recycling Method:

    • Researchers have developed a water-based recycling solution, replacing harmful organic solvents with a non-toxic approach.
    • The process uses three salts: sodium acetate, sodium iodide, and hypophosphorous acid, to dissolve and regenerate perovskite crystals, recovering high-quality material for reuse.
    • This method maintains nearly the same efficiency as fresh materials, even after five rounds of recycling, recovering 99% of the layers.
    • It promotes a circular economy, reducing waste and supporting the environmentally friendly recycling of perovskite solar cells.
    [UPSC 2014] With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements:

    1. ‘Photovoltaics’ is a technology that generates electricity by direction conversion of light into electricity, while ‘Solar Thermal’ is a technology that utilizes the Sun’s rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process.

    2. Photovoltaics generate Alternating Current (AC), while solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC).

    3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics.

    Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

    Options:

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

     

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