💥UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (April Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF

Type: Prelims Only

  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    What is Central Suspect Registry?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Central Suspects Registry

    Why in the News?

    In just three months since its launch, the Central Suspect Registry (CSR) has successfully declined over 6 lakh fraudulent transactions, saving ₹1,800 crore, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

    About the Central Suspect Registry (CSR)

    • The CSR aims to strengthen fraud risk management by maintaining a comprehensive registry of cybercrime suspects.
    • It contains data on 1.4 million cybercriminals linked to financial fraud and other cybercrimes.
    • The registry was created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • The registry is accessible to states, Union Territories, central investigation agencies, intelligence agencies, and financial institutions.
    • Developed with inputs from banks and financial institutions, the CSR serves as a central database consolidating cybercrime-related data.

    Significance of the CSR:

    • Integration with NCRP: Uses data from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal to identify potential cybercriminals.
    • Fraud Detection and Prevention: Helps financial institutions and law enforcement agencies identify and block fraudulent activities.
    • Support from Financial Entities: The RBI has directed all banks to integrate the registry into their systems for fraud prevention.
    • Impact:
      • Over 6.10 lakh fraudulent transactions blocked, saving ₹1,800 crore as of December 1, 2024.
      • 8.67 lakh mule accounts frozen by banks and financial intermediaries.
      • 7 lakh SIM cards and 1.4 lakh mobile devices blocked.
      • Financial fraud transactions amounting to ₹3,850 crore saved since 2021 through the Citizen Financial Cyber Frauds Reporting and Management System.
      • 1,03,151 suspicious online content items blocked under the powers conferred by the Information Technology Act, 2000.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1. Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer
    2. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant wilfully damages it, if proved so
    3. Cost of hiring a specialised consultant to minimise the loss in case of cyber extortion
    4. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Hydroclimate Whiplash

    Why in the News?

    Since earlier this month Los Angeles has been gripped by devastating wildfires fueled by a rare and alarming meteorological phenomenon known as hydroclimate whiplash.

    What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?

    • Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme shifts between periods of intensely wet weather and dangerously dry conditions.
    • Characteristics:
      • Alternates between heavy rainfall and severe drought.
      • Typically results in amplified weather extremes, such as floods followed by wildfires.
    • Global Trend:
      • Hydroclimate whiplash has increased by 31% to 66% worldwide since the mid-20th century, largely due to climate change.
      • Projections indicate a 113% rise in such events during sub-seasonal periods with a 3°C increase in global temperatures.

    Causes of Hydroclimate Whiplash

    • Rising global temperatures intensify hydrological extremes, causing prolonged periods of rainfall and drought.
    • Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfalls during wet periods and exacerbating droughts during dry phases.
    • Shifts in El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycles influence precipitation and temperature extremes.
    • Changes in ocean currents and wind patterns disrupt normal weather cycles, contributing to hydroclimate variability.
    • Unusual delays in wet or dry seasons can magnify hydroclimate swings, as seen in regions like California.

    How did this phenomenon cause wildfire in LA?

    • The usual wet season, which begins in October, failed during 2024-25, exacerbating dry conditions and increasing fire hazards.
    • As dry air moves from high-pressure regions over southwestern deserts to low-pressure zones off the California coast, it warms and dries further, creating ideal wildfire conditions.

    PYQ:

    [2011] La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino?

    1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.

    2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate.

    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

  • Indian Army Updates

    India successfully tests Indian Army’s first ‘Bhargavastra’ counter-drone micro missiles

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: 'Bhargavastra' Micro Missiles

    Why in the News?

    India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology by successfully testing its first domestically developed Bhargavastra micro-missile system, designed to counter swarm drone threats.

    'Bhargavastra'

    What is Bhargavastra?

    • Bhargavastra is India’s first micro-missile-based counter-drone system, developed to address the increasing threat posed by swarm drones.
    • It is capable of detecting and neutralizing small aerial vehicles at ranges exceeding 6 km.
    • Developed by Economic Explosives Ltd, the system is designed for the Indian Army, with interest also expressed by the Indian Air Force.
    • The system is tailored to provide a cost-effective solution for countering drone threats while preserving advanced air defense systems for larger challenges.

    Features of the Bhargavastra Missile System

    • Detection Range: Can detect small aerial vehicles at distances greater than 6 km.
    • Neutralization Capability: Employs guided micro munitions to engage and destroy drone targets.
    • Simultaneous Launches: Capable of launching over 64 micro missiles simultaneously, enabling effective countermeasures against swarm formations.
    • Mobile Platform: Mounted on a mobile platform for rapid deployment in diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions.
    • Versatile Design: Engineered to operate across varied terrains, meeting the specific requirements of the Indian military.

    PYQ:

    [2014] With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • Indian Navy Updates

    Commissioning of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Features of the Ships/Vessels

    Commissioning of INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer

    Why in the News?

    Three frontline combatants—INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer—were commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.

    About the Ships/Vessels

    Details
    INS Nilgiri
    • Type: First Ship of Project 17A (Nilgiri-class stealth frigates)
    • Role: Multi-mission operations in deep-sea environments
    • Builders: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, and GRSE, Kolkata
    • Features: Integrated construction, supersonic missiles, MRSAMs, advanced weaponry
    • Timeline: Keel laid Dec 28, 2017; Launched Sep 28, 2019; Delivered Dec 20, 2024
    • Significance: Enhances anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities
    INS Surat
    • Type: Last Ship of Project 15B (stealth guided missile destroyers)
    • Role: Advanced stealth destroyer for offensive and network-centric warfare
    • Builders: MDL
    • Features: AI-enabled systems, advanced weaponry (surface-to-air missiles, torpedoes), COGAG propulsion
    • Timeline: Commissioned in 2024; follows Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, and Imphal
    • Significance: India’s first AI-enabled warship with advanced IT tools
    INS Vaghsheer
    • Type: Last Submarine of Project 75 (Scorpene-class submarines)
    • Role: Stealthy, multi-role operations (anti-surface, anti-submarine warfare)
    • Builders: Collaboration with French Naval Group
    • Features: Diesel-electric propulsion, wire-guided torpedoes, modular design for future AIP upgrades
    • Timeline: Sixth and final Scorpene-class submarine; follows Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, and Vagir
    • Significance: Enhances India’s underwater warfare capabilities

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship
    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine
    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

  • Skilling India – Skill India Mission,PMKVY, NSDC, etc.

    [pib] QS World Future Skills Index

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: QS World Future Skills Index

    Why in the News?

    PM has expressed his happiness as the QS World Future Skills Index ranks India 2nd for Digital Skills, ahead of Canada and Germany.

    About the QS World Future Skills Index

    • The index is launched by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a London-based higher education firm, the index evaluates countries on their readiness to meet evolving job market demands.
    • It assesses over 190 countries, analyzing:
      • 280 million job postings
      • 5 million employer skill demands
      • 17.5 million research papers
    • 4 Key Indicators:
      • Skills Fit: Alignment between workforce skills and employer demands.
      • Academic Readiness: Higher education’s capability to prepare students for future skills.
      • Future of Work: Job market readiness for emerging skills in digital, AI, and green technologies.
      • Economic Transformation: Capacity for innovation and sustainable growth.
    • Countries are classified into 4 categories as:
      • Future Skills Pioneers
      • Practitioners
      • Contenders (India’s category)
      • Aspirants

    Key Observations  

    • India ranks 2nd globally in digital, AI, and green skills, showcasing its leadership in technology and sustainability.
    • It achieved a perfect score in economic capacity, reflecting strong growth potential.
    • However, India scored poorly in skills fit (59.1) and sustainability innovation (15.6), highlighting gaps in education and innovation alignment.
    • Developed nations like the USA, UK, and Germany lead as “future skills pioneers.”

    Significance of the Index

    • The report serves as a global benchmark for readiness in meeting evolving job market demands.
    • It highlights the importance of digital, AI, and green skills for future industries.
    • It provides actionable insights for policy reforms in education and workforce training.
    • It positions India to address gaps and leverage its strengths to secure a competitive global role.

    PYQ:

    [2022] What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India?

  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    McKinsey released Report on Demographic Transition and Depopulation

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Demographic Transition Theory

    Why in the News?

    The report, ‘Dependency and Depopulation? Confronting the Consequences of a New Demographic Reality’, released by McKinsey Global Institute, provides a detailed comparative analysis of demographic dynamics in developed (first wave) and developing (later wave) countries.

    IMPORTANT: What is Demographic Transition Theory?

    Demographic transition describes changes in birth and death rates and population age structure as societies develop economically and technologically.

    • Stage 1: High birth and death rates result in a stable population.
    • Stage 2: Decline in death rates due to improved healthcare and sanitation, causing rapid population growth.
    • Stage 3: Falling birth rates slow population growth, influenced by urbanization and access to contraception.
    • Stage 4: Low birth and death rates lead to a stable or aging population, reflecting advanced development.

    Key Highlights of the McKinsey Report 

    • Two-thirds of humanity now live in countries with fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1 children per family.
    • Age structures are shifting from pyramids to obelisks, with a growing elderly population and a shrinking youth demographic.
    • Populations in some major economies are projected to decline by 20%-50% by 2100 (UN).
    • The global support ratio (working-age individuals per senior aged 65 or older) is projected to decline from 6.5 today to 3.9 by 2050.
    • In India, the ratio will fall from 10 workers per senior in 1997 to 4.6 in 2050 and just 1.9 by 2100, similar to Japan’s current levels..
    • Consumption Patterns in India:
      • India’s share in global consumption is projected to rise from 9% today to 16% by 2050, while shares of advanced economies are expected to remain flat or decline.
      • By 2050, the share of consumption by seniors aged 65 and older will rise from 8% to 15%, reflecting changing consumer demographics.
      • The percentage of hours worked by seniors is projected to increase from 2.9% to 5.4% by 2050 under current trends.

    About India’s Diminishing Demographic Dividend

    • India has 33 years to fully capitalize on its demographic dividend before its support ratios align with those of advanced economies.
    • From 1997 to 2023, India’s favorable demographics added 0.7 percentage points per year to its GDP per capita growth.
    • This contribution is expected to shrink to 0.2 percentage points per year through 2050 as the population ages.
    • India’s support ratio (working-age individuals per senior) is projected to decline significantly, creating greater dependency on fewer workers to support older populations.
    • By 2050, there will be only 4.6 workers per senior, down from 10 workers per senior in 1997.
    • India’s GDP per capita is currently 18% of the World Bank’s high-income threshold, emphasizing the need for faster economic progress to “get rich before it gets old.”
    • Increasing labor force participation, particularly among women, and improving worker productivity are critical to sustaining economic growth.
    • Despite rapid progress, India’s worker productivity remains at $9 per hour, significantly lower than the $60 per hour average in high-income countries.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following specific stages of demographic transition associated with economic development:

    1. Low birth-rate with low death rate
    2. High birth-rate with high death rate
    3. High birth-rate with low death rate

    Select the correct order of the above stages using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2, 3

    (b) 2, 1, 3

    (c) 2, 3, 1

    (d) 3, 2, 1

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

    Makaravilakku Festival

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Makaravilakku Festival

    Makaravilakku Festival

    Why in the News?

    The Makaravilakku festival was celebrated at the hill shrine of Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.

    About the Makaravilakku Festival

    • Makaravilakku is a significant annual Hindu festival celebrated at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
    • It marks the celestial event of the Sun entering the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makaram Rashi) and coincides with Makara Sankranti.
    • Celebrations are centred at the Sabarimala Temple, nestled in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala.
    • The event draws millions of devotees who chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” in reference to Lord Ayyappa.
    • The festival typically lasts for seven days, beginning on Makara Sankranti.
    • Key Rituals and Events:
      • A symbolic lamp ‘Makaravilakku is lit at Ponnambalamedu, a hill near Sabarimala, on the evening of Makara Sankranti.
      • A divine star Makara Jyothi is believed to appear in the sky, symbolizing the blessings of Lord Ayyappa.
      • Devotees undertake a strict 41-day penance (Vratham) before making the pilgrimage to the temple.

    It’s Significance:

    • The festival signifies the merging of celestial and spiritual energies, celebrating devotion, purity, and self-discipline.
    • The tradition emphasizes equality, with all devotees wearing black or blue attire and carrying the “Irumudi Kettu” (a sacred bundle).

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following pairs:

    Traditions- Communities

    1. Chaliha Sahib Festival- Sindhis

    2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra- Gonds

    3. Wari-Warkari- Santhals

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

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) None of the above

  • Organic Farming – Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY), NPOF etc.

    [pib] National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) and its features

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has inaugurated the 8th edition of the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) emphasizing India’s goal to enhance organic farming and achieve ₹20,000 crore in organic exports within the next 3 years.

    About the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP):

    Details
    About
    • Launched in 2001.
    • Implemented by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industries.
    • Focuses on accreditation, organic production standards, and promoting organic farming.
    • Enhances India’s global competitiveness in organic farming and supports eco-friendly and viable practices.
    Features of the 8th Edition
    • Recognition for Organic Grower Groups: Simplified certification requirements for grower groups, granting them legal status and replacing the Internal Control System (ICS), a previous quality assurance system for group certification.
    • NPOP Portal: Provides visibility and streamlines operations for organic stakeholders.
    • Organic Promotion Portal: Connects farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and exporters with global buyers, offering trade leads, training, and events.
    • TraceNet 2.0: Upgraded system ensuring farm-to-market transparency, traceability, and compliance with global standards.
    • AgriXchange Portal: Facilitates data analysis and connects international buyers and sellers to strengthen India’s position in the global organic market.
    • 6. Technological Advancements: Boosts organic farming operations through innovative systems and tools, enhancing India’s organic production ecosystem.
    Significance
    • Sets standards for organic production and accreditation, recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland, enabling acceptance of Indian organic products internationally.
    • Facilitates India’s integration into the global organic market.

     

    Do you know?

    • India ranks 2nd globally in terms of organic agricultural land.
    • Sikkim is the world’s first fully organic state, and North East India has a tradition of organic farming with minimal chemical use.
    • India has the highest number of organic producers worldwide, with 2.3 million farmers.
    • By 2023-24, approximately 4.5 million hectares (2.5% of total agricultural land) were under organic certification.
    • Madhya Pradesh (26%), Maharashtra (22%), Gujarat (15%), and Rajasthan (13%) together contribute 76% of India’s total organic farming area.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?

    1. Permaculture farming discourages mono-cultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant.
    2. Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
    3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
    4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

  • Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

    [pib] Release of National Livestock Mission Operational Guidelines 2.0

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Livestock Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has released operational guidelines 2.0 for National Livestock Mission (NLM).

    What are the new operational guidelines 2.0 for NLM?

    • It focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, cluster-based development, and sustainable practices in the livestock sector.
    • They emphasize financial assistance through schemes like the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), capacity building, and modern technologies.
    • The launch of the NLM-EDP Dashboard ensures real-time monitoring and transparency.
    • Priority is given to poultry, dairy, and marginalized groups to drive equitable growth.

    About National Livestock Mission (NLM): Summary Table

    Details
    About
    • Launched in 2014-15, realigned in 2021-22 under the White RevolutionRashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana.
    • Aims to enhance livestock production quantity and quality while fostering entrepreneurship.
    • Overseen by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Comprises 3 sub-missions: (1) Breed Improvement of Livestock and Poultry, (2) Feed and Fodder Development, and (3) Innovation and Extension.
    • Focus on entrepreneurship through financial incentives for individuals, FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, and startups.
    • Includes 10 activities, such as fodder cultivation and livestock insurance, emphasizing sustainable practices and stakeholder support.
    Features
    • Entrepreneurship Support: 50% subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for horse, donkey, mule, and camel conservation.
    • Fodder Seed Processing: Infrastructure eligible for 50% subsidy for private entities and cooperatives.
    • Fodder Cultivation: Assistance to state governments for growing fodder in degraded and non-arable lands.
    • Livestock Insurance: Reduced farmer premiums (15%), expanded animal coverage, and enhanced Centre-State funding (60:40 or 90:10).

    What is the Status of Livestock Sector in India?

    • The livestock sector grew at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2014-15 to 2020-21
    • Contribution to Agricultural GDP increased from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-21
    • Contributes 4.35% to the national GDP in fiscal year 2022-23
    • Total livestock population: Approximately 536.76 million animals
    • Population growth: 4.8% increase since 2012
    • Global Livestock Ownership Highlights:
      • 12.50% of world’s cattle population
      • 56.70% of world’s buffalo population
      • World’s second-largest poultry market
    • Major Schemes and Programmes:
      • Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Launched in December 2014 for breed development
      • National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Focuses on controlling Foot & Mouth Disease and Brucellosis
      • Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Approved 116 projects worth INR 3,731.4 crore

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?

    (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops

    (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field

    (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together

    (d) None of the above

  • Nuclear Energy

    Centre reconstitutes Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Why in the news?

    The Government of India has reconstituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to include new members, reflecting recent appointments in key administrative positions.

    About the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Details
    About
    • Governing body of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), under the direct charge of the Prime Minister of India.
    • Established on 3 August 1948 under the Department of Scientific Research; reconstituted as “Atomic Energy Commission of India” on 1 March 1954 with enhanced powers and autonomy.
    • First Chairperson: Homi J. Bhabha (1948–1966).
    • Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
    Functions
    • Organize research in atomic science and train atomic scientists within the country.
    • Promote nuclear research through its own laboratories and provide financial assistance to autonomous institutes engaged in nuclear research.
    • Undertake prospecting and extraction of atomic minerals for industrial use.
    • Enabled significant achievements, such as India’s first underground nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan on 18 May 1974.
    Structural Mandate
    • Membership includes a Chairperson, scientists, policymakers, and other experts appointed by the government to guide strategic direction and decision-making.
    • Provides recommendations on nuclear energy policies, oversees India’s nuclear energy program, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
    • Collaborates with international organizations for peaceful nuclear energy development and security.

    Operates 6 key research centers:

    1. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai.
    2. Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
    3. Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
    4. Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Kolkata, West Bengal.
    5. Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, Telangana.
    6. Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP), Bahadurgarh, Haryana.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.