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Type: Prelims Only

  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Neurobiological basis of Substance Abuse Addiction

    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: Three-Stage Cycle of Addiction

    Why in the News?

    A groundbreaking study at the University of British Columbia, published in Nature Mental Health, reveals that addiction involves a complex neural circuit regulating cravings, emotions, and decision-making, shifting approaches to treatment and recovery.

    Key Findings of the Research:

    • Addiction Alters a Network of Brain Regions:  A multi-center study analyzing 144 neuroimaging studies with 9,000 participants confirmed that addiction does not affect isolated brain areas but rather disrupts a circuit responsible for craving, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
    • Brain’s Reward System is Hijacked: The nucleus accumbens releases dopamine, reinforcing pleasurable behaviors. Addictive substances exploit this mechanism, making substance use compulsive over time.
    • Withdrawal Causes Emotional Distress: The extended amygdala triggers stress, anxiety, and irritability when substance use stops, driving continued consumption to avoid discomfort.
    • Decision-Making is Impaired: The prefrontal cortex weakens, reducing impulse control and rational thinking, making quitting extremely difficult despite awareness of harm.
    • Adolescents are More Vulnerable: Since the prefrontal cortex matures last, early substance exposure increases long-term addiction risk.
    • Neuroadaptations Persist Even After Abstinence: Brain changes caused by addiction do not immediately reverse, leading to relapse vulnerability even after long periods of sobriety.

    The Three-Stage Cycle of Addiction

    • Binge/Intoxication Stage (Basal Ganglia – Reward Processing)
      • Substance use triggers dopamine release, reinforcing pleasurable behaviors.
      • Over time, the brain associates substance use with intense rewards, increasing dependence.
      • Users experience cravings, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
    • Withdrawal/Negative Affect Stage (Extended Amygdala – Emotional Distress)
      • When substance use stops, individuals experience withdrawal symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.
      • The brain craves relief, pushing individuals toward continued substance use to avoid discomfort.
      • This stage makes quitting extremely difficult, reinforcing addiction.
    • Preoccupation/Anticipation Stage (Prefrontal Cortex – Impulse Control & Cravings)
      • The prefrontal cortex weakens, impairing decision-making and self-control.
      • Cravings dominate thoughts, leading to obsessive focus on substance use.
      • Despite knowing the negative consequences, individuals struggle to quit due to impaired cognitive function.

    This cycle continuously repeats, making addiction a self-reinforcing loop.

    PYQ:

    [2007] Which one of the following parts of the human brain is the regulating center for swallowing and vomiting?

    Options:

    (a) Cerebellum (b) Cerebrum (c) Medulla oblongata (d) Pons

     

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  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    Sustainable Construction using Mycelium Bricks

    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: Mycelium Bricks

    Why in the News?

    A promising eco-friendly alternative gaining attention is mycelium bricks—a biodegradable, lightweight, and fire-resistant material derived from fungal filaments.

    What Are Mycelium Bricks?

    • Mycelium is a network of thin fungal strands called hyphae that function similarly to plant roots.
      • It grows in soil or other substrates, secreting digestive enzymes to break down organic material, providing nutrients to the fungi, plant partners, and other organisms.
    • Mycelium bricks are made by combining sawdust, husk, and fungal spores, which then solidify into a lightweight, insulating material over a few days.
    • They are biodegradable, fire-resistant, and offer thermal insulation, making them a potential green alternative to conventional bricks.

    Advantages of Mycelium Bricks

    • Lower Carbon Footprint: Mycelium bricks don’t require high-temperature kilns, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
    • Lightweight: Easier to transport and handle, reducing logistics-related emissions.
    • Good Thermal Insulation: Helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption in buildings.
    • Biodegradability: Mycelium naturally decomposes, making it a zero-waste material.
    • Versatile Applications: Potential use in interior panelling, circuit boards, liquid filters, and sports equipment.

    Challenges Limiting Large-Scale Adoption

    • Lower Load-Bearing Strength: Mycelium composites have a high strength-to-weight ratio, but they are 100 times weaker than concrete.
    • Susceptibility to Moisture:  Mycelium is highly absorbent, making it prone to fungal decay and moisture damage in humid environments.
    • Shorter Lifespan: Unlike conventional bricks, mycelium biodegrades within a few years, raising concerns about long-term durability.

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following statements:

    1.Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.

    2.Some mushrooms have psychoactive properties.

    3.Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties.

    4.Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four

     

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)

    Why in the News?

    The PM chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at Gir National Park, marking the first full-body meeting of the NBWL since 2012.

    What is National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)?

    Details
    About 
    • NBWL is India’s apex statutory advisory body for wildlife conservation and policy formulation.
    • Established in 2003 under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, replacing the Indian Board for Wildlife (IBWL).
    Evolution from IBWL to NBWL
    • 1952: IBWL formed;
    • 1961: Declared Peacock as National Bird;
    • 1972: Wild Life (Protection) Act (WLPA) passed;
    • 1973: Project Tiger launched; 1982-83: Keoladeo National Park declared a Ramsar site;
    • 1997: IBWL last met under PM H.D. Deve Gowda;
    • 2003: IBWL replaced by NBWL.
    Structure of NBWL
    • Chairperson: Prime Minister of India (ex officio).
    • Vice-Chairperson: Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
    • Members (47 total): – Government Officials: Chiefs of Army Staff, Secretaries from Defence, Tribal Affairs, Finance, I&B Ministries.
    • Parliamentary Members: 3 Lok Sabha MPs, 1 Rajya Sabha MP.
    • Experts: 10 eminent conservationists, ecologists, environmentalists.
    • NGO: 5 from non-governmental sectors.
    • + Director General of Forests (MoEFCC).
    Mandate of NBWL
    • Wildlife Conservation Policy: Formulates and updates India’s wildlife policies and provides recommendations on biodiversity conservation.
    • Development Project Regulation: Reviews and grants environmental clearances for projects near wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and eco-sensitive zones (ESZs).
    • Protected Area Management: Recommends creation and expansion of protected areas.
    • Monitoring Conservation Programs: Oversees Project Tiger (1973), Project Elephant (1992), Project Cheetah (2022), and Project Lion Expansion.
    • Ecological Impact Assessment: Evaluates deforestation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts.

    Standing Committee of NBWL:

    • A smaller body that evaluates infrastructure projects impacting wildlife habitats, grants fast-track approvals, and advises on conservation policies.
    • It has the power to approve or reject projects affecting protected areas.
    Major Contributions
    • Framed key wildlife policies including National Wildlife Action Plan.
    • Approved eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) around national parks and sanctuaries.
    • Strengthened Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and species-specific conservation programs.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following statements:

    1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.

    3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

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

     

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  • Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

    Wine Production in India

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Viticulture in India

    Why in the News?

    Despite concerns over high tariff rates that India applies on European wine, going up to 150%, Italy sees the Indian market, along with China, as a big window of opportunity for its signature wines.

    Wine Production in India

    About India’s Wine Market

    • Wine accounts for only 2% of India’s alcohol market, while whiskey and beer dominate with 98%.
    • India’s per capita wine consumption is just 9 ml—1/8000th of France’s.
    • The domestic wine market is expanding at 20-30% annually, fueled by urban demand.
    • Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR account for 70% of total wine consumption.
    • Goa leads in per capita wine consumption, driven by tourism and relaxed liquor policies.
    • India has 110+ wineries, with Maharashtra and Karnataka leading in production.
    • Sula Vineyards, India’s largest and most popular winery, produces over 1 million cases annually.
    • Events like the Nashik Wine Festival and Bengaluru Wine Festival attract tourists and wine enthusiasts.
    • Vineyard tourism is boosting the rural economy in Nashik and Nandi Hills of Karnataka.

    Viticulture in India 

    • India’s wine industry revival in the 1980s and 1990s led to increased vineyard expansion, making viticulture a key agricultural activity.
    • Nashik, Maharashtra, is known as the “Wine Capital of India”, producing over 80% of the country’s wine.
    • The semi-sandy soil, dry winters, and proximity to major cities like Mumbai and Pune make it ideal for viticulture.
    • The region has over 6,000–7,000 acres of vineyards dedicated to winemaking.
    • Key Wine Regions in India:
      • Nashik, Maharashtra – India’s largest wine-producing region, with optimal conditions for vineyards.
      • Nandi Hills, Karnataka – A cooler climate and high altitude favor premium wine production.
      • Himachal Pradesh & Tamil Nadu – Emerging high-altitude viticulture hubs.
    • Types of Grapes Used in Indian Wines:
      • Red Wine Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir.
      • White Wine Grapes: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc.
      • Indian Varieties: Anab-e-Shahi, Bangalore Blue, Thompson Seedless.

    PYQ:

    [2002] Consider the following plants:

    1. Bougainvillea 2. Carnations 3. Cocoa 4. Grapes

     

    Which of these plants are propagated by stem cuttings?

    (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2 and 4

    [2006] Consider the following statements:

    1. Caffeine, a constituent of tea and coffee, is a diuretic.

    2. Citric acid is used in soft drinks.

    3. Ascorbic acid is essential for the formation of bones and teeth.

    4. Citric acid is a good substitution for ascorbic acid in our nutrition.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

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  • Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

    [pib] Bharat 6G Alliance

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bharat 6G Alliance

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister has released India’s 6G vision “Bharat 6G Vision” document which envisaged India to be a frontline contributor in design, development and deployment of 6G technology by 2030.

    What is the Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA)?

    • The B6GA is a collaborative platform established to drive India’s leadership in 6G technology.
    • It is an alliance of public and private enterprises, academic institutions, research organizations, and standardization bodies.
    • Objectives of B6GA:
      • Foster Global Collaboration: Partner with international 6G alliances to share knowledge and best practices.
      • Develop India-Centric 6G Use Cases: Identify key industry applications suited to India’s socio-economic landscape.
      • Drive High-Impact Research & Development: Facilitate cutting-edge research in terahertz communications, AI-driven networks, and quantum-enabled security.
      • Standardization & Spectrum Identification: Influence global 6G standards through active participation in International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC-27).

    Operationalization of 6G Technology:

    The Bharat 6G Project is structured into 2 key phases:

    • Phase 1 (2023-2025):  Focus on:
      • Exploratory research on futuristic telecom technologies.
      • Proof-of-concept testing in research labs.
      • Risky and innovative pathways in wireless communication.
    • Phase 2 (2025-2030): Focus on:
      • Intellectual property (IP) creation for India-led 6G innovations.
      • Deployment of testbeds leading to large-scale commercialization.
    • International Telecom Union (ITU) is evaluating new spectrum bands for 6G:
      • 4400-4800 MHz, 7125-8400 MHz, and 14.8-15.35 GHz.
      • Final decision to be taken at World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27).
    • Currently, 600 MHz to 26 GHz spectrum bands are allocated for IMT (2G-6G) services in India.

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference / differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?

    1. LTE ‘is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.

    2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.

    3. VoLTE requires IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network for voice calls.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

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  • Indian Ocean Power Competition

    ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision for Global South

    IOCRPrelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: MAHASAGAR Initiative

    Why in the News?

    PM Modi has unveiled ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) during his March 2025 visit to Mauritius, outlining India’s expanded vision for security and development across the Global South.

    What is MAHASAGAR?

    • Mahasagar is India’s expanded strategic vision aimed at enhancing security, trade, and development cooperation across the Global South.
    • It builds on India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy, which focused on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Three Core Pillars:
    1. Trade for Development: Enhancing economic ties through technology-sharing and trade facilitation.
    2. Capacity Building for Sustainable Growth: Supporting nations with infrastructure, education, and economic partnerships.
    3. Mutual Security for a Shared Future: Strengthening regional security, maritime cooperation, and defense ties.
    • It seeks to address China’s expanding presence in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean by promoting India-led cooperation models.
    • It aims to position India as a champion of the Global South, amplifying their voice in global policymaking (e.g., G20, IORA, BRICS).

    How Mahasagar builds on SAGAR (2015)?

    • India’s SAGAR policy (2015) was a regional framework focused on maritime security and economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Mahasagar broadens this vision to global engagement with the Global South.
    SAGAR (2015) Mahasagar (2025)
    Geographic Scope Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Global South, Indo-Pacific, Africa, Latin America
    Focus Areas Maritime security, economic ties, blue economy, regional stability Trade-driven development, technology-sharing, capacity building, global security
    Strategic Partnerships Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka, IOR countries Expands to Africa, ASEAN, Latin America, Pacific Island Nations
    Security & Defense Cooperation Anti-piracy, maritime domain awareness, EEZ protection Joint naval exercises, cyber security, defense partnerships
    Economic & Developmental Focus Blue economy, infrastructure, trade corridors in IOR Technology transfer, concessional loans, trade in local currencies
    Diplomatic Strategy Regional cooperation through IORA, BIMSTEC Voice of the Global South in G20, BRICS, UN initiatives

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    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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  • Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.

    PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) Scheme

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PM SHRI Scheme

    Why in the News?

    Union Education Minister comment accusing the Tamil Nadu government of being “dishonest” in implementing the PM SHRI scheme caused disruption in the Lok Sabha.

    What is the PM-SHRI Scheme?

    About  
    • Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2022 to upgrade 14,500 schools as model institutions for NEP 2020 implementation.
    • Objective: To create inclusive, nurturing schools with modern infrastructure, holistic education, and competency-based learning.
    Implementation From 2022-23 to 2026-27. After this, states/UTs will maintain the benchmarks achieved. 

    Funding Pattern:

    1. 60:40 (Centre: State/UTs with legislature, except J&K).
    2. 90:10 for Northeastern & Himalayan States, J&K.
    3. 100% Central funding for UTs without legislature. States must sign an MoU with the Centre to participate.
    Key Features
    • Holistic learning: Focus on communication, collaboration, critical thinking. Experiential, inquiry-driven, learner-centred pedagogy.
    • Modern facilities: Smart classrooms, Computer Labs, Integrated Science Labs, Vocational Labs, Atal Tinkering Labs.
    • Green initiatives: Water conservation, waste recycling, energy efficiency.
    • Competency-based assessments linked to real-life applications.
    Eligible Schools Schools managed by Central/State/UT Governments & local bodies. Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) & Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) (non-project, with permanent buildings).

    School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) ensures performance evaluation & institutional excellence.
    Selection Process Challenge Mode (3-stage process):

    • Stage-1: Signing MoU with the Centre.
    • Stage-2: Identifying eligible schools using UDISE+ data.
    • Stage-3: Schools compete to meet selection criteria, verified by States/UTs/KVS/JNV.

    Final selection by Expert Committee headed by the Education Secretary.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] What is the purpose of ‘Vidyanjali Yojana’?

    1. To enable the famous foreign campuses in India.

    2. To increase the quality of education provided in government schools by taking help from the private sector and the community.

    3. To encourage voluntary monetary contributions from private individuals and organizations so as to improve the infrastructure facilities for primary and secondary schools.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 2 and 3 only

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Genetically-Engineered Bananas to Reduce Food Waste

    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: RNA interference (RNAi)

    Why in the News?

    Scientists at Tropic, a UK-based biotech company, disabled the PPO gene in bananas slowing down the browning process while allowing normal ripening.

    About the Genetically Engineered Bananas

    • Genetically engineered bananas are modified using biotechnology to extend shelf life, resist browning, and enhance durability.
    • These bananas stay yellow for 12 hours after peeling and are less prone to bruising.
    • The modification prevents enzymatic browning, making bananas look fresh for longer without altering their ripening process.
    • The modification targets polyphenol oxidase (PPO), the enzyme responsible for browning.
    • By disabling PPO activity, oxidation of pigments is slowed, delaying the formation of brown spots.

    Gene-Silencing Method Used:

    • RNA interference (RNAi) is used to silence the PPO gene, reducing its activity without affecting overall banana development.
    • RNAi introduces small RNA molecules that block PPO gene expression, preventing the synthesis of the browning enzyme.
    • This method is precise and does not introduce foreign DNA, making it different from traditional genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
    • Gene-editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 are also being explored for future crop modifications.

    PYQ:

    [2019] ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?

    1. It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.

    2. It can be used in developing therapies for-the treatment of cancer.

    3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.

    4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    What are Collisionless Shock Waves?

    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: Collisionless Shock Waves

    Why in the News?

    A recent study published by Johns Hopkins University (USA) and Northumbria University (UK) reveals how Collisionless Shock Waves act as cosmic accelerators, helping subatomic particles gain ultra-high energy and travel vast distances in space.

    What are Collisionless Shock Waves?

    • Collisionless shock waves are disturbances in plasma (ionized gas) where energy transfer occurs without direct particle collisions, relying instead on electromagnetic forces.
    • They are found in supernova remnants, black hole disks, pulsars, magnetars, and planetary magnetospheres.
    • They act as natural cosmic accelerators, boosting electrons and other charged particles to ultra-high speeds.

    Key Findings from the Study

    • NASA’s MMS, THEMIS, and ARTEMIS missions observed an electron acceleration event near Earth’s bow shock on December 17, 2017.
    • Electrons in Earth’s foreshock region gained 500 keV of energy, reaching 86% of the speed of light, a huge increase from their usual 1 keV.
    • Diffusive shock acceleration (known for producing high-energy cosmic rays) requires electrons to already be moving at 50% of light speed before further acceleration can occur.
    • The study identifies how electrons receive this initial boost, a long-standing astrophysical mystery.
    • Scientists have long assumed that supernova explosions are the primary source of cosmic rays.
    • The recent study suggests that planetary magnetospheres interacting with stellar winds could also contribute to high-energy cosmic rays.

    How Shock Waves accelerate Particles without Collisions?

    • Unlike in solids, liquids, or gases, where energy is transferred via molecular collisions, plasma particles interact through electromagnetic fields.
    • This allows shock waves to accelerate electrons without direct contact.
    • Multi-Stage Acceleration Process:
      1. Plasma waves interact with electrons, imparting initial energy.
      2. Magnetic turbulence in the shock front causes electrons to spiral, further increasing their speed.
      3. Repeated interactions with plasma waves push electrons to relativistic speeds.
    • Role of Earth’s Bow Shock & Foreshock:
      • When the solar wind collides with Earth’s magnetosphere, it forms a shock wave.
      • The foreshock region ahead of this wave is highly turbulent, enabling efficient electron acceleration.

    PYQ:

    [2009] In the year 2008, which one of the following conducted a complex scientific experiment in which sub-atomic particles were accelerated to nearly the speed of light?

    (a) European Space Agency

    (b) European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

    (c) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

    (d) National Academy of Sciences, USA

     

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  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    India second-largest arms importer after Ukraine

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: India's Arms Imports, Make in India

    Why in the News?

    India remained the second-largest arms importer, despite a 9.3% decline in imports between 2015-19 and 2020-24 a/c to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report.

    About SIPRI

    • The SIPRI is an independent organization established in 1966, based in Stockholm, Sweden, conducting research on conflict, arms control, and disarmament.
    • SIPRI provides comprehensive data on global arms imports, exports, and military expenditures, tracking defense trends and geopolitical conflicts worldwide.
    • It analyzes ongoing wars, nuclear proliferation, cybersecurity threats, and environmental security, offering policy recommendations for international peace and stability.
    • SIPRI publishes flagship reports such as the SIPRI Yearbook, Arms Transfers Database, and Military Expenditure Database, which are widely used by governments, researchers, and policymakers.

    India’s Arms Imports: Trends and Shifts

    • India remained the world’s second-largest arms importer, despite a 9.3% decline in imports from 2015-19 to 2020-24.
    • Russia accounted for 36% of India’s arms imports in 2020-24, significantly LOWER than 55% in 2015-19 and 72% in 2010-14.
    • India has reduced dependence on Russia and increased arms deals with France, the U.S., and Israel.
    • India became France’s largest arms importer (28%), with 36 Rafale fighter jets and six Scorpene submarines already contracted.
    • India is finalizing agreements for 26 Rafale-M jets and three additional Scorpene submarines.

    Global Arms Trade Highlights

    • Ukraine – The Largest Importer: Due to the ongoing war, Ukraine’s arms imports surged nearly 100 times in 2020-24 compared to 2015-19.
      • The U.S. accounted for 45% of Ukraine’s imports, followed by Germany (12%) and Poland (11%).
    • U.S. dominance in exports: The U.S. expanded its global arms market share to 43%, reinforcing its position as the top exporter.
    • Russia’s decline: Russian arms exports fell by 64%, dropping to 7.8% of global exports, behind France (9.6%).
    • European rearmament: European arms imports surged by 155% in response to rising security threats from Russia.
    • Pakistan’s growing imports: Pakistan’s arms imports grew by 61%, with China supplying 81% of its weapons, up from 74% in 2015-19.
    • China’s self-reliance: For the first time since 1990-94, China dropped out of the top 10 arms importers, reflecting its expanding domestic defense industry.
    • Italy’s rise in arms exports: Italy climbed from 10th to 6th place, with a 4.8% share of global arms exports.

    PYQ:

    [2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

     

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