Why in the News?
June 29 is observed annually as National Statistics Day in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, hailed as the Father of Indian Statistics.
About National Statistics Day:
- Purpose: National Statistics Day is observed on June 29 each year to commemorate the birth anniversary of P.C. Mahalanobis and highlight the value of statistics in national development.
- First Observance: It was first celebrated in 2007, following a government resolution to raise awareness about the role of statistics in socio-economic planning.
- Objectives: It aims to emphasise the use of statistical tools in governance, policy-making, and development planning.
- Organizers: Events are led by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI).
- Annual Themes: Each year features a dedicated theme focusing on a statistical challenge or development goal.
- Events and Outreach: Celebrations include seminars, exhibitions, competitions, and lectures across institutions.
- Commemorative Status: Though not a public holiday, it is a nationally recognized observance.
Who was P.C. Mahalanobis?
- Background: He was born on June 29, 1893, in Kolkata, into a Brahmo Samaj family.
- Education: He studied at Presidency College and later at King’s College, Cambridge.
- Legacy Title: He is hailed as the Father of Modern Statistics in India and was known as “The Professor”.
- Institution Builder: He founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) and helped set up India’s Planning Commission.
- His Major Contributions:
- National Sample Survey (NSS): Launched in 1950, it enabled the systematic collection of household data for policymaking.
- Mahalanobis Distance: Introduced in 1936, it remains a widely used statistical tool for identifying outliers in data.
- Applied Statistics: He applied statistical methods to flood control in Bengal and Odisha, offering cost-effective solutions.
- Planning Vision: Mahalanobis played a key role in drafting the Second Five-Year Plan, focusing on industrialisation and state-led growth.
- Academic Promotion: He started the journal Sankhya, modeled on Biometrika, to foster statistical research in India.
- Infrastructure Vision: His early proposal led to the Hirakud Dam project, completed in 1957.
- Balanced Approach: Though viewed as pro-Soviet during the Cold War, he was admired for his intellectual integrity.
| [UPSC 2016] A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on the biography of:
(a) S. Ramanujan (b) S. Chandhrashekhar (c) S. N. Bose (d) C. V. Raman |
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Why in the News?
India is preparing to reassess and renegotiate the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with Bangladesh, which is set to expire in 2026, completing its 30-year term.
About the Ganga Water Agreement (1996):
- Signing: It was signed on December 12, 1996, by PM H. D. Deve Gowda (India) and PM Sheikh Hasina (Bangladesh) to share the Ganga’s dry season flow.
- Purpose: It aimed to ensure water availability for irrigation, ecology, and navigation in both countries, especially at the Farakka Barrage, which diverts water to sustain the Kolkata Port.
- Duration: It replaced earlier short-term deals and set a 30-year framework (1996–2026), with a renewal clause by mutual consent.
Key Terms of the Agreement:
- Lean Season Period: The treaty applies from January 1 to May 31, with water sharing calculated in 10-day intervals.
- Sharing Formula at Farakka:
- ≤ 70,000 cusecs: 50% each
- 70,000–75,000 cusecs: India gets the remainder after Bangladesh gets 35,000
- ≥ 75,000 cusecs: India gets 40,000; Bangladesh gets the balance
- Alternate Sharing: From March 11 to May 10, both countries receive 35,000 cusecs alternately every three 10-day blocks.
- No Minimum Guarantee: If flow falls below 50,000 cusecs, Article II allows for consultations and emergency adjustments.
- Monitoring Mechanism: The Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) ensures implementation and dispute resolution.
- Project Provisions: Both countries may construct water projects for irrigation and navigation.
Why must India reconsider it?
- Treaty Expiry: The treaty ends in 2026, and India wants a revised pact to reflect current demands.
- Rising Needs: India seeks an additional 30,000–35,000 cusecs due to:
- Increased irrigation in West Bengal and other states
- Siltation issues at Kolkata Port
- Urban and industrial growth
- Flexibility Concerns: Officials argue the treaty lacks provisions for climate variability and seasonal shortages.
- State Support: West Bengal supports changes, citing inadequate current allocations.
- Proposed Change: India may pursue a shorter, more flexible treaty, like its move on the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.
Implications for Bangladesh:
- Downstream Vulnerability: Bangladesh faces greater risk from reduced water flow.
- Historical Shortfalls: Between 1997 and 2016, Bangladesh received less than its share 65% of the time.
- Potential Consequences:
- Increased salinity in rivers and farmland
- Reduced water for fisheries, irrigation, and drinking
- Navigation issues in the delta
- Political Sensitivity: Many in Bangladesh already view the treaty as unfair, and further reduction may trigger domestic backlash.
- Diplomatic Impact: A poorly negotiated outcome could strain India-Bangladesh ties, especially in water diplomacy and cross-border trust.
| [UPSC 2009] Consider the following statements:
1. The Baglihar Power Project had been constructed within the parameters of the Indus Water Treaty.
2. The project was completely built by the Union Government with loans from Japan and the World Bank. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only * (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
A far-right leader has called for a public debate on the terms “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, arguing they were added undemocratically during the Emergency via the 42nd Amendment and now require re-evaluation.
About the Preamble:
- Overview: It is the introductory statement to the Constitution of India. It sets out the philosophy, vision, and objectives of the Constitution.
- Origin: It is based on the Objectives Resolution introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946, and adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
- Declaration made: It declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and seeks to secure to all citizens:
Justice (social, economic, political), Liberty (of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship), Equality (of status and opportunity), and Fraternity (assuring dignity and national unity).
- Significance: It serves as a guiding light for interpreting the Constitution. N.A. Palkhivala called it the “Identity Card of the Constitution”, while K.M. Munshi described it as the “Political Horoscope” of India.
- Key symbolism associated:
-
- Source of Authority – We, the People of India emphasizes that power originates from the people.
- Nature of Indian State – India is described as Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic.
Amendments to the Preamble:
- Can the Preamble be amended: Yes, the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) held that the Preamble is part of the Constitution and can be amended, provided the Basic Structure Doctrine is not violated.
- The Preamble has been amended only once in the history of the Constitution.
- 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976:
- Passed during the Emergency (1975-77) under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
- Based on the recommendations of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee.
- Three words were added:
- “Socialist” and “Secular” – inserted between “Sovereign” and “Democratic”.
- “Integrity” – added to the phrase “Unity of the Nation” → changed to “Unity and Integrity of the Nation”.
Why was it controversial?
- It was passed during the Emergency, a time of suppressed democratic processes and curbed civil liberties.
- Critics argue that the words were politically motivated and not part of the original constitutional vision.
- Proponents argue that these values were already implicitly present in the Constitution, and the amendment merely made them explicit.
Preamble as an integral part of the Constitution: Key Judgments
- Berubari Union Case (1960):
-
- The Supreme Court initially held that the Preamble is not a part of the Constitution.
- It could be used to interpret ambiguous provisions but had no independent legal standing.
- Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Court overruled the earlier view and held that:
-
- The Preamble is a part of the Constitution.
- It reflects the basic structure and essential philosophy of the Constitution.
- However, it cannot be used to override specific provisions of the Constitution.
- LIC of India Case (1995):
-
- The Court reaffirmed that the Preamble is an integral part of the Constitution.
- But it is not enforceable in a court of law—i.e., one cannot file a case solely based on a violation of the Preamble.
| [UPSC 2020] The Preamble to the Constitution of India is:
Options: (a) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect (b) not a part of the Constitution and has no legal effect either (c) part of the Constitution and has the same legal effect as any other part (d) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect independently of other parts
[UPSC 2016] Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the preamble. Are they defendable in the present circumstances stances? |
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Why in the News?
June 26 is observed globally as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day.
About the International Day Against Drug Abuse:
- It is observed annually on June 26, following a declaration by the UN General Assembly on December 7, 1987.
- The theme for 2025, “Break the Cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime,” highlights the need for tackling organized crime networks linked to drug trafficking and calls for long-term investment in justice, education, health care, and alternative livelihoods.
- Events are held worldwide to raise awareness about the social, health, and legal impacts of drug abuse, with active participation from governments, NGOs, and citizens.
- In India, efforts like the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan reflect the government’s zero-tolerance policy and people-centric approach to preventing drug addiction and trafficking.
Key Highlights of the UNODC World Drug Report (2024-2025):
- The latest World Drug Report by UNODC reveals that 292 million people globally were using drugs by 2022, marking a 20% increase in the last decade.
- The report notes a worrying expansion of synthetic drug markets, especially methamphetamine and fentanyl-type opioids, and links them to organised crime groups.
- It calls attention to youth vulnerability, mental health correlations, and gaps in treatment access, especially in low-income countries.
Back2Basics: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
- Overview: It was established in 1997 through the merger of the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Centre for International Crime Prevention.
- UN agency: It helps in tackling illicit drugs, organised crime, corruption, and terrorism.
- Headquarters: It is located in Vienna, Austria.
- Its core functions include:
- Educating global populations about the dangers of drug abuse.
- Assisting countries in ratifying and implementing international drug control treaties.
- Strengthening criminal justice systems to promote the rule of law.
- Supporting crime prevention, anti-corruption efforts, and terrorism prevention through technical and legal assistance.
- Funding Mechanism: UNODC is voluntarily funded, mainly by governments, and works with partners worldwide to promote stable, secure, and just societies.
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| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following activities:
1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft
2. Monitoring of precipitation
3. Tracking the migration of animals
In how many of the above activities can the radars be used?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) (c) All three (d) None |
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Why in the News?
Salkhan Fossil Park, also known as Sonbhadra Fossils Park, has been recently added to UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites.
About Salkhan Fossil Park:
- Location: It is located in Salkhan village, Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh.
- Fossil Significance: It is renowned for its stromatolite fossils, ancient layered structures formed by cyanobacteria through photosynthesis.
- Age of Fossils: These fossils are estimated to be up to 1.4 billion years old, dating to the Mesoproterozoic era.
- Scientific Value: Preserved in Bhander limestone of the Vindhyan Supergroup, the site is one of the world’s richest Proterozoic rock collections.
- Significance:
- Evolutionary Insights: The fossils offer key evidence of early microbial life and events like the Great Oxidation Event, helping us understand Earth’s early biosphere.
- Ecological Context: It lies within the Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, enhancing its ecological and conservation value.
Back2Basics: UNESCO’s Tentative List
- Definition: It is a country’s inventory of sites proposed for future inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Nomination Process: A site must be on the Tentative List for at least one year before formal nomination.
- Evaluation Criteria: Sites are assessed for natural, cultural, or mixed heritage value, based on global significance.
- India’s Status: As of June 2025, India has 63 sites on its Tentative List, spanning ecosystems, monuments, and landscapes.
- Benefits of Inclusion: While not guaranteeing World Heritage status, inclusion raises awareness, improves funding, and strengthens conservation.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:
1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya
How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four |
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Why in the News?
The elusive dhole (Cuon alpinus), also known as the Asiatic wild dog, has been rediscovered in Assam’s Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL) after being thought locally extinct.
About Dhole:
- Overview: The dhole (Cuon alpinus), also known as the Asiatic wild dog, is a carnivorous mammal from the Canidae family.
- Habitat: Historically, dholes inhabited southern Russia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia but are now limited to South and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and China.
- Clusters in India: In India, dholes are found mainly in the Western and Eastern Ghats, the Central Indian Landscape, and the Northeast.
- Key States: According to a 2020 study, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh lead in dhole conservation efforts.
- Social Behaviour: Dholes live in packs of up to 30 but may also hunt solo or in pairs depending on prey availability.
- Ecological Role: As predators, dholes help regulate prey populations and maintain ecosystem balance.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix II (not necessarily threatened with extinction but may become so if trade is not closely controlled).
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II (considered important for conservation and are granted a high degree of protection).
Back2Basics: Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL)
- Geographic Spread: KKAL is located south of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, comprising Kaziranga National Park (KNP) and the Karbi Anglong Hills.
- Ecological Importance: KNP is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, known for rich, unmodified ecosystems.
- Wildlife Corridor: KKAL facilitates seasonal migration during Brahmaputra floods, supporting species movement and survival.
- Flagship Species: The landscape hosts the world’s largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as Bengal tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and wild buffalo.
- B2B Corridor: KKAL forms a vital link in the proposed Bhutan-to-Burma (B2B) Connected Landscape, a 1,400 km biodiversity corridor across northeast India.
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Why in the News?
In a breakthrough, scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have found that teak leaf extract (Tectona grandis) could offer a natural, sustainable solution for laser protection.
About Optical Properties of Teak Leaf:
- Natural Composition: Teak leaves (Tectona grandis) contain natural compounds that can interact with strong laser light.
- Laser Blocking Ability: These compounds can block harmful laser rays while allowing normal light to pass, making them suitable for selective light filtering.
- Nonlinear Optics: This unique behaviour is called a nonlinear optical property, where a material responds differently to high-intensity light.
- Linear vs Nonlinear: In linear optics, the material’s response is directly proportional to the light’s intensity. In nonlinear optics, the response becomes non-proportional, especially under laser exposure.
Back2Basics: Teak as Timber in India
- Teak (Tectona grandis) is a large deciduous hardwood tree native to India and Southeast Asia, mainly found in tropical dry and moist deciduous forests.
- It is highly valued for its durable, strong, and water- and pest-resistant wood, making it the “King of Timbers”.
- India manages 35% of the world’s planted teak forests, with major natural habitats in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
- Teak is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List but is not under CITES; private plantations are crucial for meeting demand due to restrictions on commercial felling in government forests.
- Green felling is prohibited in government forests under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and National Forest Policy, 1988, with timber supply to be met mainly from dead/diseased trees or private plantations.
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Recent Breakthrough:
- New Discovery: Scientists discovered that teak leaf extract can function as a natural laser shield.
- Protection Potential: The extract can block high-intensity laser beams, offering protection to human eyes and sensitive optical devices.
- First of Its Kind: This marks the first known instance of a natural material exhibiting such laser-blocking properties.
Significance for Humans:
- Practical Applications: It can be used in laser safety goggles, optical sensors, and other light-sensitive technologies.
- Safe Alternative: It offers a non-toxic, eco-friendly substitute to chemical-based laser protection materials.
- Sustainability Impact: The use of plant-based materials supports cost reduction and promotes sustainable innovation in science and optics.
| [UPSC 2015] In India, in which one of the following types of forests is teak a dominant tree species?
Options: (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest* (b) Tropical rain forest (c) Tropical thorn scrub forest (d) Temperate Forest with grasslands |
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Why in the News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated the process to delist some Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs) that have not contested a single election since 2019 and whose offices are untraceable.
About Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs):
- Definition: RUPPs are political parties that are registered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) but have not yet qualified as State or National Parties.
- Electoral Status: These parties may be newly registered, may have contested elections but underperformed, or may have never contested at all.
- Privileges:
- Eligibility for election symbols under specific conditions.
- Tax exemptions for donations under Section 13A of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- The ability to participate in elections under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.
How are Political Parties Registered?
- Legal Basis: Registration is governed by Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
- Requirements: Parties must submit an application with their constitution or memorandum to the ECI.
- Declarations: The party must affirm adherence to the Constitution and commit to socialism, secularism, democracy, and national unity.
- Benefits: Once registered, the party can contest elections, seek a common symbol, and receive legal financial support.
Criteria for Recognition as a Political Party:
- For State Party Recognition: A party must:
- Win 6% of valid votes and 2 Assembly seats, or
- Win 3% of Assembly seats or at least 3 seats, or
- Win 1 Lok Sabha seat and 6% of valid votes in a general election from the state.
- For National Party Recognition: A party must:
- Be recognized as a State Party in 4 states, or
- Win 2% of Lok Sabha seats (11 seats) from at least 3 states, or
- Poll 6% of valid votes in 4 states and win 4 Lok Sabha seats.
- Advantages of Recognition: Recognized parties get reserved symbols, broadcast time, campaign benefits, and can appoint more star campaigners.
| [UPSC 2001] Consider the following statements regarding the political parties in India:
1. The Representation of the People Act, 1951 provides for the registration of political parties.
2. Registration of political parties is carried out by the Election Commission.
3. A national level political party is one which is recognised in four or more States.
4. During the 1999 general elections, there were six National and 48 State level parties recognised by the Election Commission.
Options: (a) I, II and IV (b) I and III (c) II and IV (d) I, II, III and IV* |
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Why in the News?
The annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath at Puri, Odisha, has begun today.
About Rath Yatra:
- About: Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu chariot festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha, in honour of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu.
- Legend: The festival commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, their birthplace.
- Occurrence: It is held on the second day of Ashadha Shukla Paksha (June–July), according to the Odia calendar.
- Procession: The deities are placed in three massive wooden chariots and pulled by devotees along the Grand Road (Bada Danda) for about 3 km.
- Significance: It is one of the four sacred pilgrimages (Char Dham) in Hinduism and allows non-Hindus to have darshan of the deities, unlike entry to the temple.
Key Events of the Rath Yatra:
- Pahandi Bije: The ceremonial procession where the deities are carried from the temple to the chariots.
- Chhera Panhara: A ritual where the Puri King sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, signifying humility and equality.
- Three Chariot Pulling: Devotees pull the chariots—Nandighosa (Jagannath), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra), and Darpadalan (Subhadra)—toward Gundicha Temple.
- Bahuda Yatra: The return journey to the Jagannath Temple, held on the 10th day of Ashadha Shukla Paksha.
- Poda Pitha Offering: The deities are offered traditional cakes at Mausimaa Temple during their return.
- Suna Besha: On return, the deities are adorned with gold ornaments on their chariots.
- Niladri Bije: Final ritual where the deities re-enter the sanctum; marks the end of the Rath Yatra.
- Rasagola Divas: Devotees offer Rasagola sweets to Goddess Lakshmi to appease her for not being included in the journey.
Back2Basics: Jagannath Puri Temple
- The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is a major Vaishnavite shrine dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Sri Krishna.
- The current structure was rebuilt starting in the 10th century by Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
- The temple showcases the Oriya style of architecture, known for sculptural richness and graceful forms.
- It spans over 400,000 sq. ft., enclosed by the 20-foot-high Meghanada Pacheri.
- An inner wall, called Kurma Bedha, surrounds the main sanctum.
- Main Structural Sections:
-
- Deula/Vimana/Garba Griha: Sanctum sanctorum housing the deities on the Ratnavedi, built in Rekha Deula style.
- Mukhashala: The frontal porch.
- Nata Mandir/Jagamohan: The audience or dancing hall.
- Bhoga Mandapa: The hall of offerings.
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| [UPSC 2009] Mahamastakabhisheka, a great religious event, is associated with and done for who of the following?
Options: (a) Bahubali * (b) Buddha (c) Mahavir (d) Nataraja |
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Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the CIP-South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) of the International Potato Centre (CIP) in Singna, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
About the International Potato Centre (CIP):
- Establishment: The CIP was founded in 1971 in Lima, Peru, to promote research on potato, sweet potato, and Andean root crops.
- Global Reach: CIP operates in South America, Africa, and Asia, focusing on sustainable agriculture and nutritional security.
- India Collaboration: CIP began its work in India in 1975 through an agreement with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
- Germplasm Collection: It maintains the world’s largest germplasm bank for potato and sweet potato, making it central to crop breeding and biotech innovation.
- Research Areas: CIP’s activities include crop improvement, pest and disease control, post-harvest technologies, and market linkages.
- Partnership Model: The center works with local governments, agricultural institutions, and NGOs to develop climate-resilient, high-yielding varieties.
Functions of the New Regional Center (CSARC) in India:
- Location and Purpose: The new CIP-CSARC is being set up in Singna, Agra, to serve India and South Asia.
- Core Focus: It will work on developing climate-resilient, disease-free, and processing-grade varieties of potato and sweet potato.
- Food Security Goals: The center aims to enhance food and nutrition security, farmer income, and rural employment through improved productivity and value-added agri-products.
- Global Linkages: It will provide Indian researchers access to CIP’s global network, innovations, and genetic resources.
- Post-Harvest Development: It will strengthen seed quality, post-harvest systems, and improve India’s export potential in potato-based crops.
- National Importance: This will be the second major international agri-research institute in India, after IRRI-SARC in Varanasi.
Potato Cultivation in India:
- About: Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is known as the “King of Vegetables” and is India’s fourth most important food crop after rice, wheat, and maize.
- Origin: Introduced to India by Portuguese traders in the 17th century; It is a native crop of the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes.
- Geographic Spread: Grown in 23 states, but 85% of production comes from the Indo-Gangetic plains in North India.
- Global comparison: India is the second-largest potato producer globally after China, producing 51.3 million tonnes in 2020.
- Top Producing States: India’s average potato yield is 25 tonnes/hectare, which is only half the estimated potential of 50+ tonnes/hectare due to poor seed quality.
- Uttar Pradesh: ~30% of total output
- West Bengal: ~23.5%
- Bihar: ~17%
- Other contributors: Punjab, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
- Climate Needs: Potato is a cool-season crop.
- Ideal growth temp: 24°C
- Ideal tuber formation temp: 20°C
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils with moisture retention.
- Planting Seasons:
- Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand: Spring (Jan–Feb), Summer (May)
- Punjab, Haryana, UP, Bihar, Bengal: Main crop in October
- MP, Maharashtra, Karnataka: Both kharif and rabi seasons
- Seed Management: Use disease-free, sprouted seeds (30–50g);
- Popular varieties: Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Pukhraj, and Kufri Chandramukhi.
- Fertilization & Irrigation: Apply balanced nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium; drip irrigation is recommended.
- Harvesting: Ready in 90–120 days, harvested manually or mechanically.
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| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following plants:
1. Groundnut 2. Horse-gram 3. Soybean
How many of the above belong to the pea family?
Options: (a) only one (b) only two (c) All three* (d) None |
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Why in the News?
Kirsty Coventry, aged 41, has become the first African and the first woman to head the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
About the International Olympic Committee (IOC)
- Overview: It is a non-governmental international organisation established in 1894, and is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Functions: It sets the rules and framework for the Olympic Games, including deciding on host cities and event structures.
- Membership: IOC members must be proficient in French or English and be citizens or residents of countries with a National Olympic Committee (NOC).
- Jurisdiction: The IOC acts as the final authority on matters related to the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement.
- Indian and the IOC:
- The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been recognized by the IOC since 1927.
- It is responsible for selecting and sending Indian athletes to the Olympics and other major international competitions.
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Why in the News?
Researchers at Fudan University found that overuse of the fungicide tebuconazole is causing azole-resistant Candida tropicalis to emerge — a deadly fungus with a 55–60% mortality rate.
About Candida tropicalis:
- Overview: Candida tropicalis is a fungal pathogen prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including India.
- Type: It is a yeast species that causes invasive candidiasis, affecting the bloodstream and internal organs.
- High-Risk Groups: The fungus is opportunistic, primarily infecting immunocompromised individuals such as cancer patients and those in ICUs.
- Mortality Rate: The infection has a high mortality rate, estimated at 55–60% when it becomes systemic.
- Drug Treatment: Standard treatments include azole-class antifungals such as fluconazole and voriconazole (widely used during COVID-19 induced Black Fungus).
- Adaptability: The pathogen shows strong genomic plasticity, allowing it to survive hostile environments and develop drug resistance.
Reasons for Spread and Resistance:
- Agricultural Influence: Studies show that azole fungicides like tebuconazole, used in farming, contribute to azole-resistant C. tropicalis
- Environmental Exposure: These fungicides accumulate in soil and water, promoting the evolution of resistant strains.
- Genetic Adaptations: Resistant strains develop aneuploidy (extra chromosomes), aiding resistance but reducing growth in drug-free environments.
- Efflux Pumps: Some strains duplicate genes like TAC1, boosting drug-efflux pumps (e.g., ABC transporters) to eject antifungals from the cell.
- Increased Virulence: Resistant strains have proven more virulent in animal studies, posing greater public health risks.
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Why in the News?
A global investigation has revealed that vital chemotherapy drugs used in over 100 countries have failed quality tests, posing life-threatening risks to cancer patients.
Various Drugs Used for Cancer Treatment:
- Cisplatin is a platinum-based drug discovered in the 1960s. It binds to DNA in cancer cells and is widely used to treat testicular, ovarian, bladder, and lung cancers. It is known to cause kidney damage, hearing loss, and immune suppression.
- Oxaliplatin is another platinum compound mainly used to treat advanced colorectal cancer. It works similarly to cisplatin but may also cause nerve-related side effects.
- Cyclophosphamide is used for treating breast cancer, leukaemia, sarcoma, and lymphoma. It damages cancer cell DNA and lowers white blood cell counts, weakening the immune system. It can also cause bladder inflammation.
- Doxorubicin, known as the “Red Devil”, is derived from soil bacteria and used against breast cancer, leukaemia, and sarcomas. It disrupts DNA replication but has serious side effects, including heart damage and hair loss.
- Methotrexate blocks enzymes involved in DNA synthesis and is used for leukaemia, lymphoma, and various tumors. It is often followed by leucovorin, which helps protect normal cells from damage.
- Leucovorin is not a chemotherapy drug but a supportive agent used with methotrexate to reduce toxicity. It is a form of vitamin B9 introduced in the 1950s.
Recent Quality Test Failure
- Investigation: A 2024 investigation revealed that chemotherapy drugs sold in over 100 countries failed basic quality standards.
- Failure of Generics: The drugs tested were generics. Also, 189 unexpired samples were tested; 20% failed.
- Indian Pharma Under Radar: 17 manufacturers were flagged, with 16 based in India. Drugs failed for containing either too little (under 88%) or too much (over 112%) active ingredient.
| [UPSC 2005] It begins as a single cell and grows into a merciless disease that claims millions of lives year after year. But scientists are steadily unlocking its mysteries, and the fight against it may now have reached a dramatic turning point. New discoveries promise better therapies and hope in the war against …” The disease referred to in the above quotation is:
Options: (a) Cancer (b) AIDS (c) Tuberculosis (d) Alzheimer’s disease |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Axiom-4 Mission
Why in the News?
The launch of Axiom-4 (Ax-4), a private mission to the International Space Station (ISS), has finally lifted-off after several postponements due to weather conditions.
About Axiom-4 Mission:
- Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a private spaceflight organized by Axiom Space.
- It aims to transport a crew to the International Space Station (ISS) for a 14-day mission.
- This will be Axiom Space’s 4th mission to the ISS, following their previous missions (Ax-1, Ax-2, and Ax-3).
- The mission will launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket.
- The spacecraft for this mission is a SpaceX Crew Dragon, known for its advanced technology and safety features.
- This mission is organised in collaboration with NASA, highlighting a strong partnership between private space companies and government space agencies to further space exploration and research.
- Crew:
- Peggy Whitson: A veteran astronaut with extensive experience, having completed multiple missions to the ISS.
- Sławosz Uznanski: A Polish astronaut joining the mission, marking a significant milestone for Poland in space exploration.
- Tibor Kapu: A Hungarian astronaut, adding to the diversity of the mission crew.
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla: An Indian astronaut, making headlines as part of this international crew.
Significance of Ax-4 Mission for India
- The mission is a collaborative effort resulting from an agreement between ISRO and NASA.
- It provides ISRO with an early opportunity to test experiments in space, originally planned for Gaganyaan.
- Key Indian Experiments on Axiom-4:
- Microgravity’s impact on muscle dysfunction.
- Use of computer screens in zero gravity and their effects on human cognition and vision.
- Growth of six varieties of crop seeds in space conditions.
- Tardigrade survival study—these microscopic creatures can endure extreme environments and may provide insight into life support systems in space.
Back2Basics: International Space Station (ISS)
- The ISS, orbiting 430 kilometres above Earth, completes 16 orbits daily, witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets.
- It orbits Earth every 90 minutes at 8 km per second.
- Spanning 109 meters, it’s almost as long as an American football field.
- It includes 6 sleeping areas, 2 bathrooms, a gym, and a panoramic view bay window.
- Its solar array wingspan is 109 meters, and the station houses about 13 km of electrical wiring.
- Its journey began on November 20, 1998, with Russia’s Zarya Control Module.
- The US added the Unity Node 1 module on December 4, 1998, marking the start of a functional space lab.
- It evolved into its current form after 42 assembly flights.
|
PYQ:
[2019] What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? |
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Why in the News?
World ID is Sam Altman’s ambitious project to create a secure, biometric-based digital identity for everyone in the age of AI.
What is World ID?
- World ID is a digital identity system launched by Sam Altman’s company Tools for Humanity as part of the Worldcoin project in July 2023.
- It aims to verify that a person is a real, unique human being—especially in an age of AI-generated bots—using biometric iris scans.
- How Does It Work?
- The identity is created using a device called the Orb, which captures the iris pattern and generates a unique cryptographic code (not storing the image itself).
- This ID is then linked to the World App, and the user can access various services while proving they are human—without revealing their actual identity.
- The system is decentralized and uses blockchain technology to store identity proofs securely.
Key Features of World ID:
- Biometric Verification: Uses iris scanning through the Orb to establish a unique identity.
- Global Access: Users from over 160 countries have access to Worldcoin and World ID features.
- Decentralized Protocol: Built on open-source, privacy-preserving cryptography, such as zero-knowledge proofs.
- World App Integration: Enables users to locate Orbs, receive Worldcoins, and use the digital ID across apps.
- World Chain: A blockchain linked to World ID that supports apps and services tied to identity.
- Crypto Incentive: Users may receive Worldcoin (WLD) tokens for enrolling.
- Privacy Controls: Promises anonymity, non-surveillance use, and code transparency.
- Hardware Dependency: Requires a physical Orb or the new Orb Mini to generate IDs.
How it differs from Aadhaar?
|
World ID |
Aadhaar |
| Ownership |
Private project by Tools for Humanity |
Government of India |
| Launch Year |
2023 |
2009 |
| Technology Used |
Iris scan via Orb; Blockchain-based ID |
Biometric + Demographic data via central database |
| Legal Framework |
No national law backing it yet |
Aadhaar Act, 2016 |
| Purpose |
Global ID to prove human uniqueness |
National ID for accessing services & welfare |
| Data Privacy |
Claims privacy via zero-knowledge cryptography |
Data regulated by UIDAI under Indian law |
| Adoption Level |
12 million users globally |
Over 1.3 billion users in India |
| Hardware Needed |
Orb device |
Fingerprint/iris scanners at enrollment centers |
| Verification Use |
AI-bot detection, global ID use |
Government subsidies, banking, KYC, etc. |
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Why in the News?
India is planning to establish six new Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) sites to boost energy security amid rising global oil risks.
About Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR):
- Overview: SPRs are emergency stockpiles of crude oil maintained by the government to manage supply disruptions caused by events like wars, embargoes, or price shocks.
- Purpose: To ensure national energy security and reduce vulnerability to external supply shocks.
- Historical Context: India realised the need for SPRs after the 1990 Gulf War, which caused supply cuts and spiking oil prices and ultimately the Balance of Payment (BoP) Crisis.
- Foundation: The SPR project began in the early 2000s based on advice from the Planning Commission’s Integrated Energy Policy.
- Governing Body: In 2004, the government set up Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) as a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Oil Industry Development Board (OIDB).
- India’s three-pronged oil security framework:
-
- Commercial oil stocks by public and private oil marketing companies (OMCs).
- Strategic reserves by ISPRL for emergencies.
- Equity oil assets abroad through companies like ONGC Videsh Ltd. (OVL).
- Storage: Unlike commercial stocks, SPRs are stored in underground rock caverns, which are safer, more secure, and suited for long-term preservation.
Current SPR Infrastructure:
- SPR Locations: India has three active SPR sites:
- Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)
- Mangaluru (Karnataka)
- Padur (Karnataka)
- Total Capacity: The combined SPR capacity is 5.33 MMT or roughly 39 million barrels.
- Coverage Duration: This reserve can meet about 9.5 days of India’s daily oil requirement (≈5.5 million barrels/day).
- Distinction from OMC Stocks: These strategic stocks are separate from commercial stocks held by companies like IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL.
Planned Expansion of SPRs in India:
- Goal: India aims to double SPR capacity due to rising geopolitical risks and import dependence.
- New Facilities Planned:
- Chandikhol (Odisha) – 4 MMT (in two phases)
- Padur Phase II (Karnataka) – 2.5 MMT
- 6 new SPR locations are being planned at various sites, including Mangalore SEZ (Karnataka) and salt caverns in Bikaner (Rajasthan).
- Future Capacity: After expansion, India’s total SPR stock will be 11.83 MMT, covering around 22 days of national demand.
- Strategic Vision: The long-term objective is to build up 90 days of oil reserves, in line with International Energy Agency (IEA) guidelines.
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Why in the News?
A fresh political and inter-state water dispute has erupted between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh over the proposed Banakacherla Reservoir Project.
About the Banakacherla Project:
- About: Also known as the Godavari-Banakacherla or Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project, it is an ambitious interlinking plan proposed by the Andhra Pradesh government.
- Objective: It aims to divert surplus Godavari River water via the Polavaram Project, through the Krishna basin, to reach the Banakacherla regulator in Kurnool district.
- Reservoirs: The project involves construction of a new Bollapalli reservoir in Guntur district, enhancement of canal capacities (e.g., Polavaram canal from 17,500 to 38,000 cusecs), and a network of lift stations and tunnels through the Nallamala forest.
- Water Pathway: It begins at Polavaram dam, moves to Bollapalli, and ends at Banakacherla, integrating Godavari, Krishna, and Penna River basins.
Issues with the Project:
- Violation of the AP Reorganisation Act (2014): Telangana claims that Andhra’s project infringes upon legal frameworks laid out during the bifurcation of the state.
- Lack of Clearances: Telangana argues the project has not received mandatory approvals from:
- Apex Council (Krishna River Management Board and Godavari River Management Board).
- Central Water Commission (CWC).
- Water Sharing: Telangana cites the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal, which allocated 968 TMC to Telangana and 518 TMC to Andhra but did not quantify surplus water, making the legality of Andhra’s claim ambiguous.
- Political Sensitivity: Water-sharing has historically been central to Telangana’s statehood movement; any diversion is seen as a betrayal of regional interests.
- Ecological Concerns: The tunnel under the Nallamala forest may have environmental repercussions that have not been assessed or cleared.
| [UPSC 2012] Which of the following are included in the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court? 1. A dispute between the Government of India and one or more States 2. A dispute regarding elections to either House of the Parliament or that of Legislature of a State 3. A dispute between the Government of India and a Union Territory 4. A dispute between two or more States
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 4 only* (d) 3 and 4 only |
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Why in the news?
The Prime Minister recently addressed a commemorative event marking 100 years of the historic conversation between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi.
About Sree Narayana Guru:
- Early Life: Sree Narayana Guru was born on 22 August 1856 in Chempazhanthy, Kerala, into the Ezhava community, considered the so-called ‘avarna’ or outside the caste system.
- Social Reform: He led a peaceful revolution against caste discrimination and promoted social equality and spiritual upliftment in Kerala.
- Famous Slogan: Guru gave the powerful message — “One Caste, One Religion, One God for All”, calling for unity beyond caste or creed.
- Spiritual Philosophy: A follower of Advaita Vedanta, he reinterpreted it to assert that divinity exists in every individual, regardless of caste.
- Death and Legacy: He passed away on 20 September 1928, and his birth and death anniversaries are now observed as public holidays in Kerala and other states.
His Contributions:
- Temple Reform: In 1888, he consecrated a Shiva idol at Aruvippuram, challenging Brahminical control over temples.
- Organisational Impact: He founded the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam in 1903, with Kumaran Asan as its first general secretary.
- Social Movements: He supported the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924–25) against untouchability in public spaces.
- Spiritual Centres: Guru established the Sivagiri Mutt (1904), which became the heart of the Sivagiri Pilgrimage (Theerthadanam).
- Writings: His works, like Advaitha Deepika, Atmavilasam, Daiva Dasakam, and Brahmavidya Panchakam, reflect a spiritual and reformist vision.
- Holistic Upliftment: He promoted education, cleanliness, agriculture, and handicrafts for self-reliance.
- Against Conversions: Guru opposed religious conversion as a caste solution, favouring internal reform within Hindu society.
His Conversations with Gandhiji (1925):
- Historic Meeting: Mahatma Gandhi met Guru on 13 March 1925 at Sivagiri Mutt during the Vaikom Satyagraha.
- On Scriptures: Guru clarified that Hindu texts do not support untouchability and backed the Vaikom movement fully.
- On Salvation: He believed that all religions lead to moksha but stressed that material freedom is key to dignity.
- Inclusive Ashrams: He shared that his ashrams welcomed all castes, with children studying and praying together.
- View on Caste: While Gandhi defended varna in principle, Guru critiqued caste as rigid, anti-freedom, and regressive.
- Mutual Respect: Gandhi was deeply moved and later praised Guru as a “holy soul”, calling Sivagiri a model of harmony.
- Enduring Legacy: The meeting symbolised a blend of spiritual wisdom and social reform, with lasting national impact.
| [UPSC 2019] Consider the following pairs:
Movement/Organization Leader
1. All India Anti-Untouchability League Mahatma Gandhi 2. All India Kisan Sabha Swami Sahajanand Saraswati 3. Self-Respect Movement E. V. Ramaswami Naicker
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has launched Dharti Aaba Jan-bhagidari Abhiyan (DAJA), India’s largest tribal outreach and empowerment campaign to date.
About Dharti Aaba Jan-bhagidari Abhiyan (DAJA):
- Overview: It runs from 15 June to 15 July 2025, covering over 5.5 crore tribal citizens across 1 lakh+ tribal villages and PVTG habitations.
- Premise of launch: It is launched under the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh to honour Bhagwan Birsa Munda, also known as Dharti Aaba, a symbol of tribal pride and resistance.
- Objective: To achieve full saturation of central welfare schemes in tribal areas, ensuring that every eligible beneficiary receives entitlements.
-
- Janbhagidari (People’s Participation) – Empowering tribal voices and ensuring community-led governance.
- Saturation – 100% coverage of eligible households under central schemes.
- Cultural Inclusion – Use of tribal languages, folk arts, and cultural symbols to ensure dignity and identity.
- Convergence – Multi-ministry and multi-stakeholder coordination with CSOs, youth groups, volunteers, and academic institutions.
- Last-Mile Delivery – Direct delivery of services to the remotest tribal hamlets with full administrative support.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
1. It is the Governor of the State who recognizes and declares any community of that State as a Scheduled Tribe.
2. A community declared as a Scheduled Tribe in a State need not be so in another State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
A new study published in Science journal shows that “In-Body CAR T-Cell Therapy” marks a breakthrough by enabling direct immune cell reprogramming for faster, safer treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases.
What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?
- Overview: CAR T-cell therapy is a treatment where a patient’s own T cells are genetically modified to detect and kill cancer cells.
- Science behind it: Scientists extract T cells and add a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) gene, which enables them to identify cancer cells.
- Working: These modified T cells are infused back into the patient, where they multiply and actively attack cancer.
- Effectiveness: The therapy has shown high success against certain blood cancers and is now being studied for autoimmune disorders like lupus.
- Issues: The traditional therapy is expensive (₹60–70 lakh), slow, and requires chemotherapy and specialised lab facilities.
Recent Breakthrough: In-Body CAR T-Cell Therapy
- Approach: A new technique uses mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver instructions directly inside the body.
- Targeting Cells: These nanoparticles are programmed to locate and enter killer T cells, converting them into CAR T-cells internally.
- Benefits offered: This method eliminates the need for cell extraction, chemotherapy, or viral vectors, making it faster and safer.
Significance for India:
- Scalable Innovation: This platform may lower treatment costs and offer wider access in countries like India with high cancer and autoimmune burdens.
- Infrastructure Relief: Its in-body nature avoids dependence on advanced labs, making it suitable for resource-constrained settings.
| [UPSC 2019] What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?
Options: (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing* (b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients (c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops |
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