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Type: Prelims Only

  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement

    Why in the News?

    On February 23, 2025, farmers protesting at the Punjab and Haryana borders are observing Pagri Sambhal Diwas in honor of Ajit Singh, a freedom fighter, revolutionary, and Bhagat Singh’s paternal uncle.

    About the Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement (1907)

    • The Pagri Sambhal Jatta movement was a peasant uprising in Punjab against the oppressive British land laws that exploited farmers.
    • The movement was led by Ajit Singh, Kishan Singh (Bhagat Singh’s father), and Lala Lajpat Rai, who mobilized farmers to resist these unfair policies.
    • Farmers protested against three major British laws:
    1. Punjab Land Alienation Act, 1900 – Restricted farmers from selling or mortgaging their land, favoring landlords and moneylenders.
    2. Punjab Land Colonisation Act, 1906 – Allowed the British to take control of farmers’ land after their death instead of passing it to their heirs.
    3. Doab Bari Act, 1907 – Deprived farmers of ownership rights and reduced them to contract workers.
    • The British also raised taxes on agricultural land and irrigation, making it harder for farmers to sustain themselves.
    • The slogan Pagri Sambhal Jatta, meaning Take care of your turban, O farmer,” was coined by Banke Dayal, a nationalist poet, and became a symbol of self-respect and protest.
    • The movement resulted in mass protests and acts of civil disobedience, forcing the British to roll back some clauses of these laws.
    • Ajit Singh and Lala Lajpat Rai were arrested in May 1907 and exiled to Burma. Due to public pressure, they were released in November 1907.
    • Fearing further persecution, Ajit Singh fled to Persia and later lived in Turkey, Brazil, Germany, and Italy, where he worked with other revolutionaries against British rule.
    • The movement became a landmark in India’s freedom struggle, inspiring future farmers’ agitations, the Ghadar Movement, and Bhagat Singh’s revolutionary activities.

    Who was Ajit Singh?

    On February 23, 2025, farmers protesting at the Punjab and Haryana borders are observing Pagri Sambhal Diwas in honor of Ajit Singh, a freedom fighter, revolutionary, and the paternal uncle of Bhagat Singh.

    • Ajit Singh was a freedom fighter, revolutionary, and nationalist leader who played a crucial role in India’s independence movement.
    • He was born on February 23, 1881, in Khatkar Kalan, Punjab, which is now part of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district.
    • He was the elder brother of Kishan Singh, the father of Bhagat Singh, and played a key role in shaping Bhagat Singh’s revolutionary ideals.
    • Ajit Singh co-founded the Bharat Mata Society, an organization that aimed to unite farmers and revolutionaries against British exploitation.
    • Due to his active role in the Pagri Sambhal Jatta movement, he became a prime target of British authorities and was forced into exile for 38 years (1909-1947).
    • He lived in Persia, Turkey, Brazil, Germany, and Italy, where he continued his revolutionary activities and worked with Lala Hardayal and Madame Cama.
    • In March 1947, Ajit Singh returned to India, just a few months before India gained independence.
    • However, due to prolonged illness, he passed away on August 15, 1947, the very day India became independent.
    • Since 2021, February 23 has been observed as Pagri Sambhal Diwas, honoring Ajit Singh’s contributions to India’s independence and farmers’ rights.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] What was the immediate cause for the launch of the Swadeshi movement?

    (a) The partition of Bengal done by Lord Curzon.

    (b) A sentence of 18 months rigorous imprisonment imposed on Lokmanya Tilak.

    (c) The arrest and deportation of Lala Lajpat Rai and Ajit Singh; and passing of the Punjab Colonization Bill.

    (d) Death sentence pronounced on the Chapekar brothers.

     

  • What are Zonal Councils?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Zonal Council

    Why in the News?

    Union Home Minister chaired the 27th meeting of the Western Zonal Council in Pune.

    About Zonal Councils in India:

    Details
    Origin & Purpose
    • Proposed by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956 to promote cooperation among states after reorganization.
    • Established under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, with the goal of resolving inter-state disputes and ensuring balanced socio-economic development.
    Composition & Structure
    • Five Zonal Councils + North-Eastern Council (NEC).
    • Chairperson: Union Home Minister.
    • Vice-Chairperson: Chief Ministers (rotating one-year term).
    • Each state is represented by its Chief Minister + 2 ministers, with NITI Aayog participation.
    • Standing Committees of Chief Secretaries review issues before full meetings.
    Zonal Councils & Member States
    • Northern: Haryana, HP, J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh.
    • Central: Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, UP, MP.
    • Eastern: Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal.
    • Western: Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu.
    • Southern: AP, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry.
    • North-Eastern Council (NEC): Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim (added in 2002).
    Functions & Recent Developments
    • Resolves inter-state disputes, improves Centre-State coordination, addresses border issues, economic planning, transport, and linguistic minorities.
    • Strengthens cooperative federalism and regional development.
    • 2018: Union Home Minister became NEC Chairperson.
    • Modi government transformed Zonal Councils from advisory bodies to action-oriented platforms.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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

    Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Odisha

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Odisha

    Why in the News?

    On December 1, 2024, a team of archaeologists, students, and laborers began excavation at the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Jajpur, Odisha.

    On December 1, 2024, a team of archaeologists, students, and laborers began excavation at the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Jajpur, Odisha.

    About the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site

    • Located in Jajpur district, Odisha, Ratnagiri is part of the “Diamond Triangle” along with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri.
    • It flourished as a Vajrayana Buddhist center from the 5th to 13th century AD.
    • It was first reported in 1906, with excavations conducted from 1958-1961 by Debala Mitra.
    • It is identified as ‘Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Arya Bhikshu Sangha’ through inscriptions.

    Key Findings at the Site:

    • Largest Buddha Head in Odisha: 1.4 meters tall, made of Khondalite stone, featuring intricate carvings.
    • Monolithic Elephant Sculpture: Likely part of an ancient shrine complex.
    • Hundreds of Votive Stupas: Used for spiritual offerings, reflecting Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.
    • Sanskrit Inscriptions in Kutila Script: Provide insights into monastic teachings and rituals.
    • Stone Tablets and Masonry Structures: Indicate large, organized monastic settlements.
    • Lion Pedestal (Simhasana) and Buddhist Deities: Includes Amoghasiddhi, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Tara, Marici, Padmapani, Cunda.
    • Artefacts Used in Local Villages: Repurposed as decorations, Tulsi bases, and construction materials.

    PYQ:

    [2014] With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs :

    Famous shrine: Location

    1. Tabo monastery and temple complex: Spiti Valley
    2. Lhotsava Lhakhang temple, Nako: Zanskar Valley
    3. Alchi temple complex: Ladakh complex

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    First Detailed Map of Moon’s South Pole Area made from Chandrayaan Data

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Moon’s South Pole

    Why in the News?

    Astronomers are studying the first detailed geological map of the Moon’s South Pole, created by India’s Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, which landed on August 23, 2023.

    About the Geological Map of the Moon’s South Pole:

    • First High-Resolution Map:
      • This map is created by PRL Ahmedabad, Panjab University, and ISRO, using data from Chandrayaan-3’s Pragyan rover.
      • It offers new insights into the Moon’s formation and evolution.
    • Confirmation of a Magma Ocean:
      • Pragyan’s Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer detected molten rock beneath the surface.
      • This confirms a global magma ocean in the Moon’s early history.
    • Age and Crater Mapping:
      • Landing site estimated to be 3.7 billion years old, similar to Earth’s early evolution.
      • Schomberger Crater identified as the primary source of impact debris.
    • Importance for Lunar and Planetary Studies:
      • Preserved craters help understand the history of asteroid impacts.
      • Provides insights into the formation of the Earth-Moon system.

    Why is the Moon’s South Pole a Key Focus for Space Missions?

    • Water Ice Reserves:
      • Permanently shadowed craters hold large water ice deposits, first confirmed by Chandrayaan-1 (2009).
      • Crucial for future lunar colonies and deep-space missions.
    • Harsh but Valuable Environment:
      • Extreme cold (as low as -250°C) preserves ancient materials.
      • Continuous sunlight in some areas makes it ideal for solar power.
    • Scientific and Strategic Importance:
      • Craters contain pristine material from the early Solar System.
      • NASA, China, and Russia plan permanent research bases in the region.
  • Judicial Reforms

    Supreme Court’s Ruling on Remission

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Remission

    Why in the News?

    In a historic judgment, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that prisoners eligible for remission under state policies must be considered for release even if they do not apply for it.

    This decision comes as part of the suo motu case “In Re: Policy Strategy for Grant of Bail”, initiated in 2021 to address prison overcrowding.

    Supreme Court’s Ruling: Key Takeaways

    • The SC overruled its earlier stance in:
      • Sangeet v. State of Haryana (2013) – Held that remission was not automatic and required a convict’s application.
      • Mohinder Singh v. State of Punjab (2013) – Ruled that courts cannot grant remission suo motu.
    • The new ruling recognizes the existence of remission policies in states and holds that:
      • Prison superintendents must initiate remission proceedings for eligible convicts.
      • Failure to consider eligible prisoners for remission violates Article 14 (Right to Equality).

    What is Remission?

    • Remission refers to the reduction of a prison sentence without altering the conviction.
    • It is different from pardon or commutation, which may involve modifying or canceling the sentence entirely.

    Legal Provisions on Remission

    • The power of remission is governed by:
      • Section 473 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 (formerly Section 432 of CrPC) – Grants state governments the power to remit sentences at any time under specific conditions.
      • Section 475 of BNSS (formerly Section 433A of CrPC)Prevents remission for life convicts guilty of crimes punishable by death until they serve at least 14 years.
      • Articles 72 & 161 of the Constitution – Provide remission powers to the President and Governors at the Union and State levels.
    • Earlier, remission was initiated only when a prisoner applied for it, but the new ruling removes this necessity if states already have structured remission policies.

    Impact of the Ruling on Prison Reforms

    • India’s prison population far exceeds capacity, with a 131.4% occupancy rate (2022 NCRB data).
    • Over 75% of prisoners are undertrials—this ruling may not directly help them, but it could ease congestion by enabling timely release of eligible convicts.
    • The new ruling ensures all eligible prisoners get equal consideration, preventing biases in prison administration.
    • International standards (like UN Nelson Mandela Rules) emphasize prisoner rights and rehabilitation.
    • The judgment upholds fairness and reintegration into society.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Instances of the President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse.

     

  • Coal and Mining Sector

    [pib] Ministry of Mines classifies Barytes, Felspar, Mica and Quartz as Major Minerals

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Major and Minor Minerals

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Mines has reclassified Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz as major minerals, aligning with the National Critical Mineral Mission to boost India’s industrial growth.

    Major and Minor Minerals in India

    What are Major Minerals?

    • Major minerals are those with high economic value, used in industrial applications, energy production, and metallurgy.
    • Regulation: Controlled by the Central Government under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act).
    • Examples:
      • Metallic Minerals: Iron ore, Copper, Bauxite, Gold, Manganese, Zinc, Lead.
      • Energy Minerals: Coal, Lignite, Uranium.
      • Industrial Minerals: Limestone, Rare Earth Elements, Graphite, Gypsum.

    What are Minor Minerals?

    • Minor minerals have lower economic value and are mainly used in construction, local industries, and ornamental purposes.
    • Regulation: Controlled by State Governments under the MMDR Act, which gives them the power to grant leases and regulate mining activities.
    • Examples:
      • Building Materials: Sand, Gravel, Stone, Marble.
      • Non-Metallic Minerals: Dolomite, Mica, Quartz, Felspar, Clay (until reclassified as major minerals).

    Key Reasons for Reclassification:

    • Extraction of Critical Minerals: These minerals are found with Lithium, Beryl, Niobium, Tin, and Tantalum, essential for energy transition, space, and healthcare industries.
    • Industrial & Strategic Importance: Barytes is used in oil drilling, electronics, radiation shielding, while Quartz, Felspar, and Mica are crucial for ceramics, glass, and semiconductor industries.
    • Improved Regulation & Transparency: Reclassification ensures scientific mining, reporting, and compliance under Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), reducing illegal extraction and enhancing exploration.
    • No Impact on Existing Leases: Current leases remain valid for 50 years, allowing miners to adapt to new rules without disruption, with revenue continuing to benefit State Governments.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following minerals:

    1. Bentonite
    2. Chromite
    3. Kyanite
    4. Sillimanite

    In India, which of the above is/are officially designated as major minerals?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 4 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 2, 3 and 4 only

     

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

    Assam to recognize Bathou Faith

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bathou Faith and its Philosophy

    Why in the News?

    The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government in Assam has officially included ‘Bathouism’ as an option in the religion column of key application forms, including admission forms, birth and death certificates.

    What is Bathouism?

    • Bathouism is the traditional faith of the Bodo people, primarily practiced in Assam and the foothills of Bhutan.
    • It is a nature-centric religion that worships Bathoubwrai, the supreme deity believed to govern the universe.
    • The central symbol of Bathouism is the Sijou plant (Euphorbia antiquorum), representing Bathoubwrai and planted in sacred enclosures (Bathou Thansali).
    • Bathou Puja is performed to seek divine blessings for prosperity, health, and well-being.
    • The Assam government has recently recognized Bathouism as a distinct faith, allowing its inclusion in official documents.

    Philosophy of Bathouism

    • Bathouism is based on five fundamental elements, known as Ba (five) Thou (deep thought), representing natural forces:
    1. Bar (Air) – Symbolizes breath, movement, and life force.
    2. San (Sun) – Represents light, energy, and warmth.
    3. Ha (Earth) – Stands for stability, fertility, and sustenance.
    4. Or (Fire) – Denotes transformation and purification.
    5. Okhrang (Sky) – Represents infinite wisdom and cosmic balance.
    • Bathoubwrai (Sibwrai) is considered almighty, omniscient, and eternal, beyond time and space. He is indestructible—fire cannot burn him, water cannot moisten him, air cannot dry him, and weapons cannot pierce him.
    • Bathouism promotes:
    1. Truthfulness, honesty, and righteousness.
    2. Respect for elders, ancestors, and nature.
    3. Peaceful coexistence and non-violence.
    4. Gratitude through rituals and pujas.
    • Bathou rituals involve five bamboo sticks symbolizing the five elements, with offerings of rice beer, milk, flowers, and incense.
    • Ancestral veneration and community harmony are integral aspects of the faith.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

    (a) Mimamsa and Vedanta

    (b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika

    (c) Lokayata and Kapalika

    (d) Sankhya and Yoga

     

  • School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) Conclave 

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: SOUL Conclave

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister inaugurated the first edition of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) Leadership Conclave at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

    Bhutan’s PM Tshering Tobgay was the keynote speaker, emphasizing India’s leadership role in shaping governance and public service.

    What is the SOUL Leadership Conclave?

    • The SOUL Leadership Conclave (School of Ultimate Leadership Conclave) is a premier leadership summit inaugurated by PM Modi.
    • It is aimed at cultivating transformational leaders beyond traditional political hierarchies.
    • The event is designed to bring together leaders from diverse sectors, including politics, business, sports, media, spirituality, and public policy, to share their insights and experiences on leadership.
    • The conclave serves as the foundation for the upcoming SOUL Leadership Institution, an exclusive leadership training academy in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

    Key Features of SOUL Conclave:

    • Multi-Sector Leadership:  Brings together leaders from various fields to promote cross-sector collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
    • Training & Development: Focuses on nurturing ethical and globally competent leaders, beyond traditional political dynasties.
    • SOUL Leadership Institute: A 22-acre, ₹150 crore campus is being developed in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, for formal leadership training.
    • Global Leadership Insights: Discusses policymaking, governance, and leadership challenges with national and international leaders.
    • Strengthening India’s Leadership Pipeline:  Aims to train future leaders in governance, economics, diplomacy, and innovation.
  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    What is Article 101(4)? 

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Article 101(4)

    Why in the News?

    Amritpal Singh’s detention has raised concerns over his parliamentary position, as Article 101(4) states that an MP’s seat can be vacated after 60 consecutive absences without permission. He has missed 46 sittings so far.

    About Article 101(4) and its Feature

    • Article 101(4) states that if a Member of Parliament (MP) is absent from all meetings of the House for a period of 60 days, their seat may be declared vacant.
    • The 60-day period is counted continuously (excluding adjournments but including recess).
    • If the MP remains absent without prior permission from the House, the seat can be vacated under Article 101(4).
      • No MP has ever lost a seat under Article 101(4) in practice.
    • The House may grant condonation (excuse the absence) if a valid reason is provided.
    • This provision ensures active participation of MPs and prevents prolonged absenteeism.
    • If an MP does not attend any session of Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha for 60 days without permission, the House can initiate proceedings to declare the seat vacant.

    Legal Options

    • Like past MPs, Amritpal can formally request permission to remain absent due to his incarceration.
    • Former MP from Uttar Pradesh Atul Rai received similar permission in 2023 while in jail.
    • The Lok Sabha must formally vote to declare his seat vacant, making disqualification unlikely unless actively pursued.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Regarding the office of the Lok Sabha speaker, consider the following statements:

    1. He/She holds the office during the pleasure of the President.
    2. He/She need not be a member of the House at the time of his/her election but has to become a member of the House within six months from the date of his/her election.
    3. If he/she intends to resign, the letter of his/her resignation has to be addressed to the Deputy Speaker.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

  • National Consumer Helpline (NCH) witnesses growth in NE-States

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Consumer Helpline (NCH)

    Why in the News?

    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has seen a 300% rise in complaints in Arunachal Pradesh, reflecting increased awareness and trust in consumer grievance redressal.

    What is National Consumer Helpline (NCH)?

    • NCH is an initiative of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution to provide a nationwide grievance redressal system for consumers.
    • It offers advice, guidance, and assistance to consumers facing issues with products, services, and unfair trade practices.
    • Key Features of NCH:
      • Toll-Free Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 / 1915 (Available from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM, except national holidays).
      • Multi-Channel Complaint Registration: Website, mobile app, email, WhatsApp, and SMS-based complaint filing.
      • Covers a Wide Range of Sectors: E-commerce, telecom, banking, insurance, transport, healthcare, digital payments, etc.
      • Operated under: The Centre for Consumer Studies at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA).

    How has the NCH succeeded in Northeast India?

    • Complaints rose from 9,162 in 2020 to 36,609 in 2024, with Arunachal Pradesh seeing a 50-fold rise in consumer grievances.
    • 517% increase in online complaint registrations; introduction of regional language assistance to enhance accessibility.
    • Workshops, SHG partnerships, and NGO collaborations helped rural and tribal communities understand consumer rights.
    • “Jago Grahak Jago” initiatives, grants to NE states, and Panchayat training programs increased consumer participation.
    • Consumers experienced faster redressal in cases like e-commerce refunds, delayed product deliveries, and service-related issues.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to consumers rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.

    2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.

    3. In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3