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Type: Prelims Only

  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register

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

    Why in the News?

    Bhagavad Gita and Bharata’s Natyashastra manuscripts has been included in UNESCO’s prestigious Memory of the World Register.

    About UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register:

    • Launched in 1992, UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme preserves and promotes documentary heritage of global significance.
    • It safeguards humanity’s documentary heritage, ensuring materials are accessible for future generations.

    About the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra:

    • Bhagavad Gita:
      • Traditionally attributed to sage Vyasa, the Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse scripture in the Mahabharata.
      • It presents a dialogue between Arjuna and his charioteer, Lord Krishna, discussing duty, righteousness, and spirituality.
      • The Gita synthesizes various Indian philosophical traditions, including Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Charvaka.
      • The text is dated to the first or second century BCE, with oral compositions transcribed later.
    • Natyashastra:
      • Attributed to sage Bharata, the Natyashastra defines the rules of performing arts such as drama, music, and dance.
      • It introduces Rasa (aesthetic experience), a key concept in Indian theatre.
      • The treatise consists of 36,000 verses and was codified around the 2nd century BCE, continuing to influence performing arts today.

    India’s Earlier Entries to the Memory of the World Register

    • Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, Sahṛdayaloka-Locana (2024): Important literary and cultural texts in India’s storytelling tradition.
    • Abhinavagupta’s Works (2023): Significant contributions to Shaiva philosophy and mysticism.
    • NAM Archives (2023): Archives from the 1961 Non-Aligned Movement summit, reflecting India’s role in diplomacy.
    • Rig Veda (2005): One of the oldest texts, foundational in Indian spirituality.
    • Dutch East India Company Archives (2003): Reflecting colonial history.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhāsa?

    Options: (a) Kavyaalankara (b) Natyashasta (c) Madhyama-vyoga* (d) Mahabhashya

     

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  • Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

    India to Headquarter the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) 

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

    Why in the News?

    India has signed a Headquarters Agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), officially establishing its headquarters in India.

    About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA):

    • IBCA is a multi-country, multi-agency group of 96 big cat range and non-range countries focused on conserving 7 big cats and their habitats.
    • It was proposed by PM Modi in 2019, officially launched in April 2023 for Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
    • It aims to protect and conserve Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma; restore habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
    • Key activities include- Advocacy, knowledge sharing, eco-tourism promotion, and resource mobilization for big cat conservation.
    • Currently, India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia are members. Though membership is open to 96 range countries with big cat habitats.
    • Governance: Includes a General Assembly, elected Council, and Secretariat with a Secretary-General.
    • India’s Role:
      • India is home to 5 (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah) of the 7 big cats and 70% of the world’s tiger population, playing a leading role in global wildlife protection.
      • ₹150 crore from the Indian government (2023-2028) with additional contributions from global partners.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    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 2

     

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to resume soon

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

    Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to resume soon

    Why in the News?

    The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a significant religious pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, is set to resume after a halt since 2020.

    About Kailash Mountain and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

    • Kailash Mountain is situated in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) of China, near India and Nepal, standing at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet).
    • Religious Significance:
      • Hinduism: Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, believed to bring moksha (liberation).
      • Buddhism: Home of Buddha Demchok, symbolizing bliss.
      • Jainism: Lord Rishabhanatha attained Nirvana here.
      • Bon Religion: Center of the universe in Bon faith.
    • Mansarovar Yatra is the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake at 4,556 meters (14,950 feet).
    • This lake is believed to be created by Lord Brahma, bathing here is believed to cleanse sins.
    • The Yatra is managed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for Indian pilgrims.
    Places in News: Kailash Mansarovar
    Copyright infringement not intended.

    Routes to Kailash Mansarovar

    • Lipulekh Pass: Located at 5,115 meters, this route is 200 km of trekking and has been suspended since 2020 due to geopolitical tensions.
    • Nathu La Pass: Positioned at 4,310 meters, this 1,500 km motorable route requires 35-40 km of trekking. It has been operational since 2015.
    • Nepal Route: Available since 2023, this route is managed by private operators, with challenges related to visa and permit requirements.
    [UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?

    (a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La* (d) Shipki La

     

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  • Air Pollution

    What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)?

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Environment Ministry’s 2015 policy mandating the installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) equipment in all of India’s 537 coal-fired plants has been scrutinised by a recent study commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser.

    Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)

    About Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in Power Plants

    • FGD is used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gases in coal-fired power plants.
    • The process involves passing exhaust gases through a scrubbing system using absorbents like ammonia, sodium sulfite, or limestone.
    • Methods:
      • Wet Limestone Scrubbing: Gases pass through a scrubber tower with a slurry of water and limestone.
      • Dry Sorbent Injection: Uses a dry alkaline agent to neutralize SO₂.
      • Sea Water-Based Systems: Utilizes seawater’s natural alkalinity to absorb SO₂.
    • FGD can remove up to 95% of sulfur dioxide, reducing SO₂ emissions significantly.
    • Reduces sulfur emissions, major contributors to acid rain and air pollution.
    • FGD Gypsum, a byproduct, can be used in industries like cement manufacturing.

    Recent Study on FGD in Power Plants

    • A study by NIAS critiques India’s FGD policy, recommending limited FGD installations for plants using imported or high-sulfur coal.
    • 92% of coal in Indian plants has low sulfur content (0.3%-0.5%), meaning FGD may not significantly improve local air quality.
    • Widespread FGD installation could increase power and water consumption, and result in 69 million tonnes of additional CO₂ emissions by 2030.
    • Removing SO₂ (cooling agent) while increasing CO₂ emissions may accelerate climate change.
    • Recommendations: Installing electrostatic precipitators (₹25 lakh per MW) can reduce 99% of particulate matter (PM), offering a more cost-effective and impactful solution.
    [UPSC 2024] According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions?

    (a) Locomotives using fossil fuels

    (b) Ships using fossil fuels

    (c) Extraction of metals from ores

    (d) Power plants using fossil fuels*

     

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  • Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

    How can V2G Technology help India’s Power Sector?

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

    Why in the News?

    Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has partnered with IIT Bombay to launch a pilot project on Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, integrating electric vehicles into the power grid.

    About V2G Technology:

    • V2G enables Electric Vehicles (EVs) to send power back to the grid when not in use, turning EV batteries into decentralized energy storage devices.
    • It involves two key functions:
    1. Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V): Power is transferred from the grid to charge the EV.
    2. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Power is sent from the EV back to the grid, making the vehicle a distributed energy source.
    • Smart charging strategies optimize charging based on grid demand and renewable energy availability, enhancing grid stability and enabling renewable energy integration.

    About the KSEB-IIT Bombay V2G Pilot Project:

    • This pilot aims to assess EVs’ role in supporting the power grid, especially during peak demand periods when solar energy is unavailable.
    • Kerala’s growth in EV adoption and rooftop solar installations has raised concerns about increased electricity demand, particularly in the evenings.
    • The project will explore the feasibility of using EVs to reduce grid strain and optimize the use of renewable energy.

    Applications of V2G:

    • Grid Support: EVs can supply power back to the grid during high-demand periods, improving grid stability.
    • Solar Energy Integration: V2G encourages charging during the day when solar power is abundant, and storing excess energy to supply the grid at night.
    • Emergency Power Source: EVs can act as backup power during crises or natural disasters, providing electricity to communities.
    [UPSC 2024] Which one of the following is the exhaust pipe emission from Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles powered by hydrogen?

    (a) Hydrogen peroxide (b) Hydronium (c) Oxygen (d) Water vapour *

     

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    JSWT finds Strongest Evidence of Life

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

    Why in the News?

    Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have found signs of possible life on exoplanet K2-18 b by detecting gases usually produced by Earth’s biological processes.

    jswt

    Key findings of the Recent Study:

    • Scientists detected significant biosignatures in the atmosphere of K2-18 b, including dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS).
    • These gases, on Earth, are primarily produced by marine phytoplankton.
    • High concentrations of these gases suggest the possibility of microbial life, particularly in the planet’s oceans.
    • However, researchers caution that this is not definitive proof of life but a potential biosignature indicating biological processes.
    • Further studies and observations are needed to confirm whether these gases are biologically produced or the result of other processes.

    About James Webb Space Telescope (JWST):

    • JWST is a joint venture between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) launched in December 2021.
    • It is an orbiting infrared observatory that will complement and extend the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, with longer wavelength coverage and greatly improved sensitivity.
    • Webb was formerly known as the “Next Generation Space Telescope” (NGST), and it was renamed in 2002 after a former NASA administrator, James Webb.
    • It isa large infrared telescope with an approximately 6.5-meter primary mirror.
    • JWST is positioned at the Earth-Sun L2 Lagrange point, 5 million km away.
    • It consists of a mirror, spanning 6.5 meters in diameter compared to Hubble’s 2.4 meters, and its specialised instruments optimised for infrared observations.
    • Key Objectives:
      • JWST observes deeper into the universe than Hubble.
      • Observes celestial objects from earlier epochs.
      • Enables the detection of light from the universe’s earliest stars, dating back over 13.5 billion years.
    [UPSC 2020] The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to:

    Options: (a) Voyager-2 (b) New Horizons (c) LISA Pathfinder (d) Evolved LISA*

     

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  • Indian Army Updates

    6th Edition of Exercise DUSTLIK

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

    Why in the News?

    The 6th edition of India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-6 commenced at the Foreign Training Node at Aundh in Pune, Maharashtra.

    About Exercise DUSTLIK

    • Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
    • It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
    • The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
    • The 5th edition was held in Termez District, Uzbekistan.
    • 4th edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.

    Objectives and Focus Areas:

    • Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
    • Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
    • Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.

    Back2Basics: India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries

    Country Exercise
    Kazakhstan Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND
    Kyrgyzstan Ex KHANJAR
    Mongolia Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT
    Tajikistan Ex Farkhor

     

    [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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  • Governor vs. State

    History and Evolution of the Office of Governor

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Evolution of the Office of Governor

    Why in the News?

    The recent Supreme Court verdict on the powers of the President and Governors regarding assent to Bills under Articles 201 and 200 highlights the evolution of the office of the Governor and its changing role in India’s federal structure.

    Evolution of the Office of Governor:

    • Formal Establishment (1858): The office of the Governor was established under the Government of India Act of 1858, which transitioned administration from the East India Company to the British Crown. Governors acted as agents of the Crown and had significant powers in provincial administration.
    • Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919): The GoI Act of 1919, under the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, aimed to increase Indian participation but kept the Governor central to governance, including vetoing Bills passed by legislative councils.
    • GoI Act of 1935: The GoI Act of 1935 gave provincial autonomy but retained the Governor’s discretionary powers, including vetoing Bills and withholding assent, signalling a transition toward more autonomy while maintaining significant Governor authority.
    • Post-Independence Transition (1947): As India moved toward independence, the India (Provisional Constitution) Order of 1947 modified the 1935 Act. It removed the phrase “in his discretion,” reducing the Governor’s discretionary powers and signalling a shift to a more symbolic and constitutional role.
    • Constituent Assembly Debates: It debated whether Governors should be elected or nominated. Concerns over separatism led to the decision that Governors would be nominated by the President to maintain unity and strengthen ties with the Centre, especially after the partition.
    • Post-Independence Framework: Before Independence, various documents and political proposals, including the Commonwealth India Bill (1925) and the Nehru Report (1928), supported retaining the office of the Governor, inspired by the Westminster model of governance.

    Constitutional Role of the Governor:

    • Article 163: The Governor acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister, except in certain discretionary situations.
    • Ambedkar’s Views: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar advocated for limited use of discretionary powers, ensuring the Governor’s actions align with the advice of the ministers.
    • Article 200: The Governor must grant assent to Bills, but may withhold assent, reserve the Bill for the President, or return it for reconsideration. Ambedkar amended this in 1949 to ensure the Governor acts in alignment with the elected government.
    • Symbolic and Impartial Role: The Governor is expected to represent the Union, support democratic functioning, and remain non-interfering in day-to-day state affairs.
    • Discretionary Powers: The Governor’s discretion is limited to constitutional guidelines and should be used sparingly, ensuring the Governor’s role remains constitutional, not political.
    [UPSC 2017] In the context of Indian history, the-principle of ‘Dyarchy (diarchy)’ refers to:

    (a) Division of the central legislature into two houses.

    (b) Introduction of double government i.e., Central and State governments.

    (c) Having two sets of rulers; one in London and another in Delhi.

    (d) Division of the subjects delegated to the provinces into two categories. *

     

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    New frog species ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’ discovered in Assam

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

    Why in the News?

    A 21-year-long study has resulted in the discovery of a new frog species, Leptobrachium aryatium, named after Arya Vidyapeeth College in Assam.

    About the frog ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’

    • Leptobrachium aryatium, a newly discovered species of frog, was found in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, Assam, near the Meghalaya border.
    • The species was identified through a re-analysis of past research and new studies on the Leptobrachium genus.
    • Key Features:
      • Distinctive Eyes: The frog has fiery orange-and-black eyes, setting it apart from other species in the genus.
      • Reticulated Throat Pattern: A unique reticulated pattern on its throat adds to its distinct appearance.
      • Smooth, Rhythmic Call: Emits a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk, a feature unique to this species in the genus.
      • Molecular and Morphological Distinctiveness: DNA analysis and physical studies confirmed it as a new species, distinguished by its unique call and appearance.
    [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    India’s first-ever Seed Germination Database

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    On April 16, 2025, the Ecological Restoration Alliance-India (ERA-I) has released a first-of-its-kind seed germination database aimed at enhancing the success of growing native plants for ecological restoration.

    About the Seed Germination Database:

    • It was launched by the Ecological Restoration Alliance-India (ERA-I).  ERA was formed in July 2021, as an informal collective between practitioners, ecologists and individuals.
    • ERA-I collaborated with organizations like Auroville Botanical Gardens, NCF, and Wildlife Trust of India.
    • It features over 1,000 germination techniques for 465 native plant species found across India.
    • It aims to help restoration practitioners, nursery managers, and native plant enthusiasts improve success rates in growing plants for ecological restoration.
    • It is a free-access database and offers valuable information on germinating native plants crucial for restoration projects.
    • Native Plants Included:
      • The database features a diverse array of native plant species. These species are key to restoring balance in degraded ecosystems.
      • They are – Aegle marmelos (Wood apple), Bauhinia racemosa (Beedi leaf tree), Ficus benghalensis (Banyan), Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Ziziphus mauritiana (Indian jujube), Knema attenuata (Wild nutmeg), Lawsonia inermis (Henna), Madhuca longifolia (Mahua), Vachellia nilotica (Babool).

    Significance:

    • Native plants are essential for creating climate-resilient ecosystems.
    • Such database plays a vital role in ecological restoration.
    • It provides 1,000+ techniques for growing native plants, enhancing the success of restoration projects.
    • The database supports India’s Bonn Challenge commitment to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
    [UPSC 2016] In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the ‘Seed Replacement Rates’ of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraint/constraints in its wider/greater implementation?

    1. There is no National Seeds Policy in place.

    2. There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops.

    3. There is a demand-supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

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