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

Type: Prelims Only

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

    Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Sant Guru Ravidas

    Why in the News?

    The birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement during the 15th and 16th centuries, is celebrated every year on 12th February.

    Sant Guru Ravidas

    Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    • Guru Ravidas, also known as Bhagat Ravidas, was a prominent saint, poet, and social reformer of the Bhakti movement in 15th-century India.
    • Born in 1377 CE in Seer Govardhanpur, Uttar Pradesh, he dedicated his life to eradicating social discrimination and promoting equality.
    • Despite facing caste-based oppression, Guru Ravidas rose to prominence through his wisdom, humility, and devotion to God.
    • He was a contemporary of Sant Kabir and is believed to have met Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikh religion.
    • His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting his significant influence in Sikhism and Bhakti traditions.

    Key Contributions of Guru Ravidas

    • Equality & Social Justice: Opposed caste discrimination and untouchability.
    • Bhakti Movement: Advocated devotion over rituals for spiritual enlightenment.
    • Begumpura Concept: Envisioned a society free from oppression and sorrow.
    • Literary Contributions: Composed over 40 devotional hymns in Guru Granth Sahib.
    • Spiritual Influence: Guided Meera Bai in her devotion to Lord Krishna.
    • Universal Brotherhood: Taught that God is for all, beyond religion or caste.
    • Impact on Sikhism: Influenced Guru Nanak and Sikh teachings on equality and devotion.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:

    1. Dadu Dayal

    2. Guru Nanak

    3. Tyagaraja

    Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 2

     

  • Panchayati Raj Institutions: Issues and Challenges

    Doctrine of Pith and Substance

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Doctrine of Pith and Substance

    Why in the News?

    In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed the Doctrine of Pith and Substance, holding that the Centre cannot impose service tax on lottery distributors as the power to tax lotteries falls exclusively within the jurisdiction of state governments.

    Why did the Supreme Court dismiss the Centre’s Plea?

    • Lotteries Are Not a Service but Gambling: The court ruled that the relationship between states and lottery distributors is buyer-seller, not principal-agent, making service tax inapplicable.
    • Exclusive Taxing Power of States: The Constitution grants state legislatures the authority to tax betting and gambling, including lotteries.
      • Parliament cannot override this through residuary powers (Entry 97 – List I) as taxation on lotteries is already covered under Entry 62 – List II.
    • Doctrine of Pith and Substance Applied: The court ruled that the dominant nature of lotteries is gambling, even if marketing and promotion involve service elements.
      • Since the primary focus remains within the State List, the Centre cannot impose service tax on it.
    • Sikkim High Court Ruling Upheld: The SC upheld the 2012 Sikkim HC decision, which declared Section 65(105) of the Finance Act, 1994 (as amended in 2010) unconstitutional, as it attempted to impose service tax on lottery-related activities.

    What is Doctrine of Pith and Substance?

    • The Doctrine of Pith and Substance helps determine whether a law’s dominant purpose falls within the legislative competence of the enacting government.
    • Key Features:
      • Examines the true nature of a law, rather than incidental overlaps.
      • Resolves Centre-State conflicts over legislative powers.
      • Allows minor encroachments if the primary subject falls within the legislature’s authority.
    • Major Supreme Court Cases Applying the Doctrine:
      • State of Bombay v. FN Balsara (1951): Upheld a state alcohol prohibition law, despite minor overlaps with Union subjects.
      • Prafulla Kumar Mukherjee v. Bank of Commerce (1947):  Allowed incidental encroachment as long as the law’s primary focus was within its jurisdiction.
    • Application in Lottery Taxation Case:
      • The Centre’s argument for taxing lotteries under Entry 97 – List I was rejected.
      • The dominant purpose of lottery transactions is gambling, which states exclusively regulate and tax.

    PYQ:

    [2016] The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the:

    (a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    (b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership

    (c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two thirds of its members present and voting

     

  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    [pib] Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) Elimination 

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare has launched the Annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF).

    About Lymphatic Filariasis (LF):

    • Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), or “Hathi Paon”, is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori.
    • It affects the lymphatic system, leading to swelling of limbs (lymphoedema) and scrotal swelling (hydrocele), causing permanent disability.
    • LF spreads through repeated mosquito bites, making it a major public health challenge in tropical regions, including India.
    • India aims to eliminate LF by 2027, ahead of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target.

    What is Mass Drug Administration (MDA)?

    • MDA is a large-scale public health campaign where anti-filarial medicines are administered to all eligible individuals in endemic areas to stop LF transmission.
    • Medication Regimens:
      • Double Drug Therapy (DA): Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) + Albendazole
      • Triple Drug Therapy (IDA): Ivermectin + DEC + Albendazole
    • Key Features of MDA
      • Door-to-door supervised drug administration ensures high coverage.
      • Drugs are safe, free, and given twice a year in targeted districts.
      • MDA is crucial for eliminating LF, as it reduces parasite transmission and protects millions from disability.
    • EXCEPTIONS: Children below 2 years, pregnant women, and seriously ill individuals.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following statements:

    1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.

    2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.

    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

    [pib] Exercise CYCLONE-III

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Exercise CYCLONE-III

    Why in the News?

    The 3rd edition of Joint Special Forces Exercise CYCLONE commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

    Note: India and the UAE held the ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ joint military exercise in Rajasthan in January 2024. One must not get confused with this.

    About Exercise CYCLONE-III

    • It is the 3rd edition of the Joint Special Forces Exercise between India and Egypt, aimed at enhancing interoperability, joint tactical operations, and counter-terrorism capabilities.
    • The exercise is conducted at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan from 10th to 23rd February 2025.
    • CYCLONE is an annual exercise, held alternately in India and Egypt.
      • The previous edition (CYCLONE-II) was conducted in Egypt in January 2024.
    • The exercise focuses on high-intensity special forces training in desert and semi-desert terrains.

    Features and Significance:

    • This exercise involves 25 personnel from each side, focusing on counterterrorism, CQB, hostage rescue, and heliborne operations in desert terrain.
    • The 48-hour final validation exercise tests combat strategies in semi-desert conditions, while an Indian defense technology showcase strengthens military ties.
    • The exercise enhances India-Egypt defense cooperation, improves joint counter-terrorism capabilities, and builds readiness for future operations.
    • It also boosts India’s strategic outreach in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, reinforcing defense collaborations and regional security.
  • GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

    India introduces new HS code for GI-recognised Rice Varieties

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: World Customs Organization (WCO); HS Code

    Why in the News?

    India has introduced a Harmonised System (HS) code for geographical indication (GI) recognised rice exports under an amendment to the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the 2025-26 Union Budget on February 1, 2025.

    About Harmonised System (HS) Code

    • HS Code is an internationally recognized classification system for traded goods, developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
    • It is used to standardize the identification of products in global trade, ensuring uniformity in customs procedures, tariffs, and trade policies.
    • The HS Code is a six-digit numerical code, categorized as follows:
      • First two digits: Represent the chapter of goods (e.g., “10” for cereals).
      • Next two digits: Indicate the heading (e.g., “06” for rice).
      • Last two digits: Define the subheading (e.g., “30” for semi-milled or wholly milled rice).
    • Countries can extend the HS Code beyond six digits to accommodate specific national requirements (e.g., India uses an 8-digit system).

    Impact of HS Code on GI Rice Exports:

    Trade experts believe that the introduction of an HS code will:

    • Facilitate GI rice exports, even when general rice exports are restricted.
    • Ensure better market access for specialty rice varieties in global markets.
    • Differentiate GI-tagged rice from conventional rice exports to prevent mislabelling.

    About the World Customs Organization (WCO):

    • The WCO is an intergovernmental organization responsible for overseeing and standardizing global customs regulations.
    • It was established in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) and later renamed the WCO in 1994.
    • Key Functions of the WCO:
      • Develops and maintains the HS Code, used by over 200 countries and territories.
      • Regulates customs procedures, trade facilitation, and enforcement of trade laws.
      • Supports the fight against illegal trade, smuggling, and counterfeit goods.
    • The organization works closely with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and United Nations (UN) to promote global trade efficiency.
    • India is a member of the WCO and follows its HS classification system for trade regulations.
    • The WCO’s Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) serves as a blueprint for India’s customs modernization efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following statements:

    1. India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO.
    2. TFA is a part of WTO’s Bali Ministerial Package of 2013.
    3. TFA came into force in January 2016.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Renaming of Fort William

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Fort William

    Why in the News?

    In a move to eliminate colonial practices and symbols from the Indian Armed Forces, Fort William in Kolkata, the headquarters of the Eastern Army Command, has been renamed Vijay Durg.

    About the Vijay Durg (Fort William)

    • It was originally built by the British in 1773, Fort William was named after King William III of England.
    • It is located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, West Bengal.
    • It served as a key British military stronghold during colonial rule.
    • The first version of Fort William was built by the English East India Company in 1696.
    • It had an inner bastion used as a prison, leading to the term “Black Hole of Calcutta”.
    • The Black Hole of Calcutta Incident (1756) refers to the alleged imprisonment of British prisoners by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, where many reportedly suffocated to death due to overcrowding and lack of ventilation.
    • After the Battle of Plassey in 1757, Robert Clive ordered its demolition, and a new fort was built, completed in 1773.
    • Fort William College was established by Lord Wellesley in 1800 to train Company civil servants in Indian languages and customs, but it was closed in 1802.
    • The present-day fort is octagonal in shape, made of brick and mortar, covering 70.9 acres.
      • It is now owned by the Indian Army and serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command.

    Do you know?

    Fort St. George (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) 

    • It was the first fort built by the British in 1644, marking the beginning of British rule.
    • It served as the headquarters of the Madras Presidency.
    • It included St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India.
    • Current Use: Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly & Secretariat.

    Significance of Renaming

    • The new name is inspired by Vijay Durg Fort in Maharashtra, one of the oldest and most significant naval forts under Chhatrapati Shivaji.
    • Vijay Durg served as a naval base for the Marathas, highlighting India’s indigenous military history.
    • The renaming aligns with India’s broader initiative to remove colonial influences and promote native military traditions.
      • In September 2022, the Indian Navy replaced its British-era ensign with a new octagonal design inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji’s royal seal.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to educational institutions during colonial rule in India, consider the following pairs: 

    Institution: Founder

    1. Sanskrit College at Benaras: William Jones
    2. Calcutta Madarsa: Warren Hastings
    3. Fort William College: Arthur Wellesley

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 3 only

     

  • RBI Notifications

    Economic Capital Framework (ECF) of the RBI

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Economic Capital Framework (ECF) of the RBI

    Why in the News?

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated an internal review of its Economic Capital Framework (ECF) to assess the contingency risk buffer (CRB) and overall capital reserves.

    What is Economic Capital Framework (ECF)?

    • The ECF is the risk management policy used by the RBI to determine:
    1. How much capital and reserves the central bank should maintain for financial stability.
    2. How much surplus the RBI can transfer to the government under Section 47 of the RBI Act, 1934.
    • Key Components
    1. Contingency Risk Buffer (CRB): A financial safeguard for monetary, fiscal, credit, and operational risks.
    2. Total Economic Capital: Includes capital, reserves, risk provisions, and revaluation balances.
    • Surplus Transfers:
      • FY24: ₹2.11 lakh crore (highest-ever surplus).
      • FY23: ₹87,416 crore | FY22: ₹30,307 crore | FY21: ₹99,122 crore.

    Review of ECF and Its Significance

    • The Bimal Jalan Committee’s recommendations (valid till June 2024) required a periodic reassessment.
    • As of March 31, 2024, the CRB stands at 6.5%, and the RBI is evaluating whether changes are needed.
    • Potential Impact
      • Higher CRB → More financial stability, but lower surplus transfers to the government.
      • Lower CRB → More funds available for government spending, but with potential financial risks.
    • Impact on Budget: RBI’s surplus plays a major role in fiscal planning for infrastructure & welfare programs.
    • The RBI must ensure financial resilience while also supporting economic development.

    About Bimal Jalan Committee (2018)

    • Objective: To review RBI’s reserve management and surplus transfer policy.
    • Key Recommendations:
      • CRB should be between 5.5% – 6.5% of the balance sheet.
      • Periodic ECF review every 5 years.
      • Only realized surplus (net income) should be transferred to the government.
      • Revaluation reserves should not be used for operational losses.
    • Impact:
      • Led to higher surplus transfers and a structured capital policy.
      • Strengthened transparency & financial governance in RBI’s operations.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)?

    1. It decides the RBI’s benchmark interest rates.
    2. It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year.
    3. It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    SEBI proposed Retail Algo Trading Framework

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Algo Trading

    Why in the News?

    Initially exclusive to institutional investors, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) now has proposed to allow retail participation in Algorithmic trading (algo trading) to ensure market stability and allow retail participation.

    What is Algo Trading?

    • Algo Trading, or Algorithmic Trading, is the process of using computer programs and pre-defined rules to execute financial market trades at high speed and efficiency.
    • It eliminates human intervention and emotions, allowing trades based on mathematical models, historical data, and market conditions.
    • How Does Algo Trading Work?
      • It follows pre-coded algorithms to identify trading opportunities and execute orders.
      • It uses technical indicators, price movements, volume, and other data to determine trade entry and exit points.
      • The system can scan multiple markets simultaneously and execute trades in milliseconds.
      • High-Frequency Trading (HFT) is a subset of algo trading that involves executing thousands of trades per second.
      • It reduces market impact, transaction costs, and slippage compared to manual trading.

    Key Highlights of Regulatory Framework:

    • Broker Responsibility: Only registered brokers can offer algo trading services to retail investors. Direct retail algo trading without broker approval is not permitted.
    • Market Surveillance: Exchanges must monitor algorithmic trades to prevent market manipulation and excessive order placement.
    • Latency and Co-location Rules: SEBI has set rules to ensure fair access to low-latency trading infrastructure and avoid unfair advantages.
    • Risk Management: Traders must maintain adequate margins, and there are circuit breakers to prevent excessive market volatility.
    • Pre-Approval for Strategies: Algo trading strategies must be tested and approved before deployment to minimize market disruption.
    • Algo vs. Non-Algo Identification: SEBI mandates separate tagging of algo trades for better transparency and oversight.
    • Ban on Self-Trading: Algorithms must not execute self-trades to manipulate market prices.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Which of the following is issued by registered foreign portfolio investors to overseas investors who want to be part of the Indian stock market without registering themselves directly?

    (a) Certificate of Deposit

    (b) Commercial Paper

    (c) Promissory Note

    (d) Participatory Note

     

  • Article 200 of the Indian Constitution

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Article 200

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has criticized Tamil Nadu Governor for creating an “impasse” by withholding assent to state bills and later referring them to the President, questioning his handling of state bills under Article 200 of the Constitution. The Governor has withheld 12 Bills, primarily concerning higher education and the appointment of Vice-Chancellors in State universities.

    Judicial Precursor: Rameshwar Prasad Case (2005)

    • Article 361 provides immunity to Governors from court proceedings for actions taken in their official capacity.
    • However, in Rameshwar Prasad & Ors. vs Union of India & Anr., the Supreme Court ruled that:
      • Immunity under Article 361 does not prevent judicial review of the Governor’s actions.
      • If a Governor withholds assent with malicious intent, the decision can be deemed unconstitutional.
      • Governors must provide valid reasons for withholding assent, as they cannot act arbitrarily.

    What is Article 200?

    • Article 200 governs the Governor’s options when a Bill passed by the State Legislature is presented for approval.
    • It outlines the Governor’s discretionary powers regarding assenting, withholding, returning, or reserving Bills.

    Provisions and Features:

    • The Governor has four options when presented with a State Legislature Bill:
    1. Assent to the Bill: The Bill becomes law.
    2. Withhold Assent: The Governor can refuse approval.
    3. Return the Bill: If it is NOT a Money Bill, the Governor can send it back to the State Legislature for reconsideration.
    • Reserve the Bill for the President’s Consideration:  If the Bill-
      • Violates the Constitution or a Central law.
      • Affects national interests or is ultra vires.
      • Opposes the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
      • Concerns compulsory property acquisition under Article 31A.
      • Endangers the position of the State High Court (mandatory reservation).
    • Article 201 deals with Bills reserved for the President’s approval, granting the President the power to:
      • Assent to the Bill or withhold assent.
      • Return the Bill for reconsideration by the State Legislature.
    • Key Constitutional Debates:
      • No time limit exists for the Governor to act, leading to delays and constitutional challenges.
      • Judicial scrutiny has questioned prolonged withholding of assent, as seen in recent Supreme Court cases.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State?

    1. Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President’s rule
    2. Appointing the Ministers
    3. Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India
    4. Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

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

    Genotype D1.1

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Genotype D1.1

    Why in the News?

    The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed a new spillover of H5N1 avian flu genotype D1.1 into dairy cattle in the United States.

    What is Genotype D1.1?

    • Genotype D1.1 is a strain of the H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, primarily found in poultry and wild birds.
    • It is part of the H5 clade 2.3.4.4b, which has been responsible for multiple outbreaks worldwide.
    • It was recently confirmed in dairy herds in Churchill County, Nevada, USA.
    • Symptoms in Cattle: Includes fever, reduced milk production, coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
    • Differences from B3.13: Genotype B3.13, the previous dominant H5N1 strain in cattle, caused milder infections in humans, whereas D1.1 has led to more severe cases.

    Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) Spillover of H5N1 Virus

    • A spillover event occurs when a virus jumps from its natural host species (wild birds) to other animals or humans.
    • It spreads through wild bird migration routes, carrying the virus across continents.
    • The virus has been detected in unpasteurized milk from infected cows, raising concerns about worker exposure.

    Impacts on India

    • Although genotype D1.1 has not been detected in India, the growing spread of H5N1 in cattle and humans abroad raises concerns for public health and livestock industries in India.
    • India is part of major bird migration routes (Central Asian Flyway & East Asian-Australasian Flyway), making it vulnerable to H5N1 spread from infected wild birds.
    • With India being the world’s largest milk producer, a spillover of H5N1 into dairy cattle could severely impact milk production and exports.
    • While human cases remain rare, a mutation allowing human-to-human transmission could lead to a pandemic-like scenario.
    •  India poultry products exports to Middle Eastern and Asian markets; an H5N1 outbreak could lead to bans and economic losses.

    PYQ:

    [2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases?

    (a) AIDS

    (b) Bird flu

    (c) Dengue

    (d) Swine flu