Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

[pib] Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme

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

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme
Why in the News?

The Ministry of Culture implements a Central Sector scheme by the name of ‘Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant)’.

What is the Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme?
- The Ministry of Culture launched this scheme in 2003-04.
- It aims to preserve and promote India’s traditional performing arts.
- It provides financial assistance to Gurus (mentors) and Shishyas (students) in music, dance, theatre, and folk arts, ensuring structured training under the age-old mentorship system.
- Aims and Objectives:
  - Preserve and revive rare art forms through direct knowledge transfer.
  - Support traditional artists by providing financial aid for sustainable livelihoods.
  - Encourage young talent by facilitating training under experienced Gurus.
  - Promote classical, folk, and tribal art forms through structured mentorship.
Features and Significance:
- Financial Assistance
  - Guru – ₹7,500/month | Accompanist – ₹3,750/month
  - Shishyas – ₹1,500/month (up to four per Guru)
  - Repertory Grant – Guru: ₹15,000/month | Shishya: ₹2,000 – ₹10,000/month
- Eligibility
  - Indian citizens engaged in traditional performing arts.
  - Gurus aged 45-70 years with national-level recognition.
- Implementation & Monitoring
  - Each Guru trains 5-8 Shishyas, focusing on rural and tribal artists.
  - Periodic reviews and expert evaluations ensure proper fund utilization.
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What is the ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’?

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Nuclear Energy Mission

Why in the News?

The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced the Nuclear Energy Mission, aiming to develop at least 5 indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033.

About Nuclear Energy Mission (NEM):

Details

A flagship initiative announced in Union Budget 2025-26 to accelerate India’s nuclear power capacity towards the target of 100 GW by 2047.
It focuses on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), expansion of Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), and policy reforms to attract private and foreign investment in nuclear energy.

Key Highlights of the NEM

100 GW Nuclear Target by 2047 as part of India’s clean energy transition.
₹20,000 crore allocated for R&D and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Public-Private Collaboration for setting up Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) and advanced nuclear technologies.
Amendments to Atomic Energy Act, 1962 to allow private sector participation.
Changes to Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 to attract foreign investment.
Deployment of BSRs (220 MWe) and SMRs (30-300 MWe) to replace coal plants and power remote regions.

Other Initiatives for Enhancing India’s Nuclear Capacity

Expansion of Nuclear Power Capacity:

Current capacity: 8,180 MW → Target by 2031-32: 22,480 MW.
10 reactors under construction (8,000 MW) across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
Approval for 6 x 1208 MW AP1000 reactors (USA collaboration) at Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh.

Deployment of Advanced Nuclear Reactors:

- Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs): 220 MWe PHWRs for industrial decarbonization.
- Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) at Kalpakkam achieved milestones in 2024.
High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGRs) & Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) under development using India’s thorium reserves.

Recent Developments:

New uranium deposit discovered at Jaduguda Mines (extends mine life by 50+ years).
Operationalization of first two 700 MWe PHWR units at Kakrapar, Gujarat (KAPS-3 & 4).
NPCIL-NTPC Joint Venture (ASHVINI) launched to build nuclear plants.
Rajasthan Atomic Power Project-7 (RAPP-7) reached criticality in 2024.

PYQ:

[2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 Words, 15 Marks)

[2011] The function of heavy water in a nuclear reactor is to:

(a) Slow down the speed of neutrons

(b) Increase the speed of neutrons

(d) None of the above

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Tax Reforms

[pib] Budget 2025-26 removes 7 Custom Duties for Industrial Goods

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: Customs Duty

Why in the News?

The Budget proposes to remove 7 customs tariff rates for industrial goods, following a similar step in Budget 2023-24. This will leave only 8 tariff rates, including a zero rate, making customs duty structure more transparent and predictable.

What is Customs Duty?

Customs Duty is a tax imposed on goods that cross international borders to regulate their movement.
It helps protect a country’s economy, jobs, environment, and residents by controlling imports and exports.
It prevents illegal trade, ensures fair competition, and generates government revenue.
The Customs Act, 1962, which defines and regulates customs duty in India.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) under the Ministry of Finance manages customs duties.
Types of Customs Duties in India:

Basic Customs Duty (BCD): Levied on imported goods (0-100%).
Countervailing Duty (CVD): Imposed to balance foreign subsidies (0-12%).
Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS): 10% surcharge to support welfare projects.
Anti-Dumping Duty: Imposed on goods sold below market price to prevent unfair trade.
Compensation Cess: Levied on items like tobacco and pollution-causing goods.
Integrated GST (IGST): Imposed on imports at 5%, 12%, 18%, or 28% rates.
Safeguard Duty: Applied when excessive imports harm domestic industries.
Customs Handling Fee: 1% charge for customs processing.

Customs Duty Calculation: Based on product value, origin, composition, and international trade agreements.

Key Changes Announced to Customs Tariffs:

Tariff rates reduced from 15 to 8, Social Welfare Surcharge was removed on 82 items.
36 new life-saving medicines exempted, 5% duty on six more drugs.
Full BCD exemption on 35 EV battery capital goods, 28 mobile battery items, and key minerals like cobalt & lithium.
10-year duty exemption for shipbuilding materials; Ethernet Switch duty cut from 20% to 10%.
20% export duty on crust leather removed, handicraft export timeline extended to 1 year.
Frozen fish paste duty cut from 30% to 5% to boost seafood exports.
Customs assessments limited to 2 years, quarterly importer reporting instead of monthly.

How India is Protecting Its Economy from Trade War Impact?

Rupee-based trade settlements with Russia, UAE & Sri Lanka to reduce dollar dependence.
Stockpiling essential imports like semiconductors, rare earth metals, and crude oil.
Attracting companies shifting from China with PLI incentives for manufacturing.
Paperless customs clearance, AI-driven trade monitoring, and blockchain documentation for smoother trade.
Strengthening global trade alliances like IPEF (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework) and Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) (Japan-Australia) for supply chain stability.

PYQ:

[2018] Consider the following statements

1. The quantity of imported edible oils is more than the domestic production of edible oils in the last five years.

2. The Government does not impose any customs duty on all the imported edible oils a special case.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

[pib] GARBH-Ini-DRISHTI: India’s First Ferret Research Facility

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: GARBH-INi-DRISHTI
Why in the News?

India’s first Ferret Research Facility, GARBH-Ini-DRISHTI, was inaugurated at Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in Faridabad to boost vaccine development and infectious disease research.

About GARBH-INi-DRISHTI
- GARBH-INi-DRISHTI is a data repository and information-sharing hub designed to provide comprehensive clinical and biological insights into maternal and child health.
- Developed under the GARBH-INi program, it is one of South Asia’s largest pregnancy cohort datasets, offering access to clinical data, medical images, and bio-specimens.
- The platform includes data from over 12,000 pregnant women, newborns, and postpartum mothers, enabling extensive research into maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
- It is a collaborative initiative, involving India’s top research institutions and hospitals, ensuring scientific synergy in maternal healthcare.
- Aims:
  - To enhance maternal and neonatal healthcare research through large-scale data accessibility.
  - To support global researchers in conducting transformative studies that can improve birth outcomes.
  - To provide early insights into pregnancy-related complications, fostering better diagnostic and preventive measures.
  - To develop predictive tools for conditions like preterm birth, ensuring better maternal health interventions.
- Features:
  - Comprehensive Data Repository: Houses clinical, imaging, and bio-specimen data from thousands of pregnant women and newborns.
  - Advanced Data Access: Researchers can explore detailed datasets to study pregnancy outcomes, foetal health, and postnatal development.
  - Secure and Controlled Access: Provides clear guidance on data usage and approvals, ensuring ethical research practices.
  - Global Research Platform: Enables nationwide and international collaboration, allowing researchers to work on common healthcare challenges.
  - Supports Policy and Decision-Making: The data can be leveraged to shape maternal health policies, improve diagnostic protocols, and design effective interventions.
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Digital India Initiatives

Gyan Bharatam Mission

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Gyan Bharatam Mission

Why in the News?

The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a comprehensive initiative for surveying, documenting, and conserving India’s manuscript heritage.

What is Gyan Bharatam Mission?

It is a nationwide initiative launched in the Union Budget 2025-26 to survey, document, and conserve India’s manuscript heritage.
The mission aims to cover over one crore manuscripts, ensuring the systematic preservation of ancient texts housed in academic institutions, museums, libraries, and private collections.
It is a revival and expansion of the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM), which was originally established in 2003 but had limited impact due to inadequate funding and structural challenges.
The mission aligns with India’s broader cultural conservation goals and is expected to create a centralized repository for India’s rich textual and intellectual heritage.

Aims and Objectives:

- Survey and document manuscripts across institutions and private collections.
- Digitize rare texts and create a centralized repository for research and preservation.
- Restore and conserve fragile manuscripts using modern preservation techniques.

Features and Significance:

- Budget Allocation Increased: Funding for NMM raised from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore.
- Digital Preservation: AI-driven archiving, metadata tagging, and translation tools for easy access.

PYQ:

[2023] With reference to Indian History, Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess and Walter Elliot were associated with (2023)

(a) archaeological excavations

(b) establishment of English Press in Colonial India

(d) construction of railways in Colonial India

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Centre clears exploratory drilling in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Hollongapar Gibbon WLS

Why in the News?

Exploratory drilling for oil and gas has been approved within the eco-sensitive zone surrounding the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary.

About the Hollongapar Gibbon WLS

Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary was initially established as Hollongapar Reserve Forest in 1997 and renamed in 2004.
It is the only habitat for hollock gibbons in India.
Located in Assam, with the Bhogdoi River along its northern boundary.
Biome classified as plains alluvial semi-evergreen forests with patches of wet evergreen forests.
Flora:
- Upper canopy: Dominated by Hollong trees (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), Sam, Amari, Sopas, Bhelu, Udal, and Hingori.
- Middle canopy: Features Nahar trees.
- Lower canopy: Composed of evergreen shrubs and herbs.
Fauna:
- Primates: Includes Hoolock Gibbons, Bengal Slow Loris (only nocturnal primate in Northeast India), stump-tailed macaques, northern pig-tailed macaques, eastern Assamese macaques, rhesus macaques, and capped langurs.
- Other mammals: Indian elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, wild boars, civets, squirrels, and more.

About the Hoolock Gibbons:

Gibbons are the smallest and fastest apes, and they inhabit tropical and subtropical forests across Southeast Asia.
It is the only ape specie found in India.
They possess high intelligence, exhibit distinct personalities, and have strong familial bonds, reflecting characteristics similar to other ape species.
The current population of hoolock gibbons is estimated at around 12,000, found primarily in Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and southern China.
Two distinct species, the eastern hoolock gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys) and the western hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock), were previously reported in India.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: the western hoolock gibbon is classified as Endangered, and the eastern hoolock gibbon is classified as Vulnerable.
- Both gibbon species in India are placed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

PYQ:

[2010] Consider the following pairs:

Protected Area:: Well-known for

1. Bhitarkanika, Orissa :: Salt Water Crocodile

2. Desert National Park, Rajasthan :: Great Indian Bustard

3. Eravikulam, Kerala :: Hoolock Gibbon

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

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

Second National Gene Bank

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: First National Gene Bank

Why in the News?

As part of the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister announced the establishment of a second National Gene Bank in India.

About the First National Gene Bank

Established in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi.
Functions as India’s primary facility for preserving plant genetic resources (PGRs) to safeguard biodiversity.
Operates through 12 regional stations across the country for collection and storage of vital crop germplasms.
Preserves 0.47 million accessions (plant material for breeding and research) as of January 15, 2025.
Maintains genetic resources using four conservation methods:
- Seed Genebank (-18°C) – Stores seeds for long-term conservation.
- Cryogenebank (-170°C to -196°C) – Preserves plant tissues in liquid nitrogen.
- In-vitro Genebank (25°C) – Maintains plant cultures in controlled environments.
- Field Genebank – Conserves live plants for breeding and research.
Protects diverse crop groups, including cereals, millets, legumes, oilseeds, and vegetables.

About the Second National Gene Bank

It aims to store over 10 lakh germplasm lines to strengthen food and nutritional security.
It will complement the first National Gene Bank and expand genetic conservation capacity.
It is designed to support both public and private sectors in conserving genetic diversity.
Features and Significance:
- Largest conservation facility in India, expanding germplasm storage capacity beyond the existing 0.47 million accessions in the first gene bank.
- Ensures germplasm accessibility for future generations, preventing genetic erosion due to habitat loss or overexploitation.
- Protects India’s agricultural heritage by preserving native, traditional, and rare plant varieties.
- Aligns with global conservation efforts, including India’s Seed Vault in Chang La (Ladakh) and the Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Norway).
- Promotes ex-situ conservation, ensuring crop diversity for future breeding, research, and sustainable farming.

PYQ:

[2021] What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of society?

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Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

Samudrayaan Project

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Samudrayaan Project

Why in the News?

In a major boost to India’s Deep Ocean Mission, Finance Minister allocated ₹600 crore for the Samudrayaan project under the Union Budget 2025-26.

About Samudrayaan Project

Samudrayaan is India’s first manned deep-sea mission, designed for exploring ocean resources and conducting deep-sea research.
It falls under the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
The project involves sending scientists in a deep-sea submersible to explore mineral resources and biodiversity at depths of up to 6,000 metres.
With this project, India will join an elite group of nations (USA, Russia, China, Japan, and France) capable of deep-sea manned exploration.
Aims and Objectives
- Deep-Ocean Exploration: Study deep-sea resources, including minerals, hydrothermal vents, and marine biodiversity.
- Technological Development: Advance underwater robotics, deep-sea mining technology, and manned submersible vehicles.
- Sustainable Resource Utilization: Explore polymetallic nodules, which contain cobalt, nickel, manganese, and copper.

Significant Features:

Manned Submersible: MATSYA 6000:
- Being developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai.
- Developed under Samudrayaan to carry three crew members for up to 12 hours of exploration (extendable to 96 hours in emergencies).
- Designed for operation at a depth of 6,000 metres.
- Equipped with life-support systems and scientific sensors.
Exploration of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
- Mapping the ocean floor for mineral resources.
- Conducting geological and environmental studies for sustainable deep-sea mining.

PYQ:

[2022] With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements:

A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.
Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.
The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.

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 3

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

[pib] National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM)

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM)

Why in the News?

As part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) introduced the Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD) portal in June 2023, facilitating comprehensive documentation of the cultural heritage of 6.5 lakh villages across India.

About National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM):

Details	Launched by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and implemented by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
Aims and Objectives	Document India’s cultural heritage, including art forms, artists, crafts, and performing arts. Mapping of 6.5 lakh villages across India; Initial focus on Bihar. IT-enabled platform to store and manage cultural data via a web portal and mobile app (Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar).
Significant Features	Database creation for cultural elements like oral traditions, art, customs, festivals, food, and historical landmarks. National Register of Artists and Art Practices for cultural preservation. Raising awareness about cultural heritage’s role in economic development and national unity.
Initiatives under the Mission	*Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD): Documents villages, focusing on culture, history, and traditions. 7 Categories of Cultural Data: Arts & Crafts, Ecology, Scholastic Traditions, Epics, History, Architecture, and Unique Features. Sanskriti Pratibha Khoj: Identification of traditional artists through cultural mapping. National Cultural Work Place and Outreach*: Involves newsletters, magazines, booklets, advertisements, media, and content designing.

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NGT issues notice to Centre on use of invasive fish species for mosquito control

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Mosquitofishes

Why in the News?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.

Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).

About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)

It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.

About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)

Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.

PYQ:

[2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?

(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the News?

What is the Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme?

Features and Significance:

Why in the News?

About Nuclear Energy Mission (NEM):

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Customs Duty?

Key Changes Announced to Customs Tariffs:

How India is Protecting Its Economy from Trade War Impact?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About GARBH-INi-DRISHTI

Why in the News?

What is Gyan Bharatam Mission?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About the Hollongapar Gibbon WLS

About the Hoolock Gibbons:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About the First National Gene Bank

About the Second National Gene Bank

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Samudrayaan Project

Significant Features:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM):

Why in the News?

About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)

About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)

PYQ: