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Type: Prelims Only

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

    [pib] Maha Kumbh Mela, 2025

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Kumbh Mela

    Why in the News?

    The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela will take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.

    [pib] Maha Kumbh Mela, 2025

    About Kumbh Mela

    Details A major pilgrimage and festival in Hinduism, occurring four times in twelve years at different locations in India. It attracts millions of pilgrims for spiritual purification.

    Types of Kumbh Mela:

      1. Kumbh Mela: Regular festival, celebrated every 12 years at one of the four locations.
      2. Maha Kumbh Mela: The largest, celebrated once every 12 years at Prayagraj (confluence of Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati).
      3. Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years in Prayagraj (half of the full Kumbh Mela).
    • Purna Kumbh Mela: Held when a complete 12-year cycle is completed.

    Locations:  Kumbh Mela rotates between four cities:

      1. Haridwar (on the banks of the Ganges),
      2. Prayagraj (confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati river),
      3. Ujjain (on the banks of the Shipra River),
    • Nashik (on the banks of the Godavari River).

    Key Rituals:

    • Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) – A ritual where pilgrims in Akharas (processions) bathe in the holy river.
    • Worship and Prayers – Pilgrims offer prayers along riverbanks, attend spiritual discourses, and perform fire rituals.
    • Religious Processions – Several religious processions involving saints, gurus, and devotees take place.
    • Community Prayers and Spiritual Discourses – Saints and religious leaders conduct spiritual teachings for the devotees.
    Significance and Features  
    • Spiritual Significance: Considered a sacred event for Hindus, aimed at spiritual cleansing, salvation, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth (Moksha).
    • Cultural Unity: It is a remarkable event showcasing India’s unity and diversity, where millions of people from across the world come together.
    • Mass Gathering: It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest peaceful gathering, with millions of pilgrims attending the event. In 2019, Kumbh Mela witnessed the largest peaceful public gathering ever recorded, with around 120 million people.
    • Pilgrimage Tourism – The Kumbh Mela also significantly boosts local tourism, with a major influx of national and international pilgrims, contributing to local and national economies.

    UNESCO Recognition – Kumbh Mela was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2017.

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  • RBI Notifications

    What is Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)?

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)

    Why in the News?

    • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) began its three-day monetary policy review.
      • There is increasing speculation that the RBI may announce a cut in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) to ease liquidity pressures.

    What is Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)?

    • CRR is the percentage of a bank’s total deposits that it must maintain as liquid cash with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a reserve.
    • It is a tool used by the RBI to manage inflation and check excessive lending by banks.
      • It serves as a safety net during times of banking stress, ensuring banks have enough liquidity for day-to-day operations.
    • As of now, the CRR is set at 4.5% of a bank’s Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL).
    • Banks do not earn interest on the amount they maintain as CRR with the RBI.
    • CRR Requirements for Different Types of Banks:
      • Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs): Includes Public Sector Banks (PSBs), Private Sector Banks (PVBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Small Finance Banks (SFBs), Payments Banks, Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs), State Co-operative Banks (StCBs), and District Central Co-operative Banks (DCCBs).
      • Non-Scheduled Co-operative Banks & Local Area Banks: They must maintain CRR with themselves or with the RBI.
    • Restrictions on CRR Funds
      • Banks cannot lend the funds held as CRR to corporates or individual borrowers.
      • The money held under CRR cannot be used for investment purposes by the bank.
      • No Interest is earned on the funds maintained as CRR by banks with the RBI.

    What is Incremental CRR (I-CRR)?

    • Introduced temporarily on August 10, 2023, to absorb surplus liquidity in the banking system.
    • Banks were required to maintain 10% I-CRR on the increase in their NDTL between May 19, 2023, and July 28, 2023.
    • The I-CRR was implemented from August 12, 2023, and applied during periods of excess liquidity in the financial system.

    Impacts of Declining CRR on the Economy

    • Positive Impacts: 
      • Increased Bank Liquidity: A reduction in CRR frees up more funds for banks, improving credit availability and promoting investment and consumption.
      • Stimulus for Economic Growth: With more funds to lend, businesses can secure loans more easily, boosting economic activity and encouraging growth across sectors.
      • Lower Interest Rates: As banks have more liquidity, they may lower interest rates on loans, making credit cheaper and encouraging investment and consumer spending.
    • Negative Impacts: 
      • Potential Inflationary Risks: Increased lending and spending can raise demand, which, if not matched by supply, can lead to inflationary pressures in the economy.
      • Asset Bubbles: Excess liquidity may result in overvalued assets like stocks or real estate, creating the risk of unsustainable price increases and potential market instability.

    PYQ:

    [2010] When the Reserve Bank of India announces an increase of the Cash Reserve Ratio, what does it mean?

    (a) The commercial banks will have less money to lend

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India will have less money to lend

    (c) The Union Government will have less money to lend

    (d) The commercial banks will have more money to lend

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    World Wildlife Conservation Day

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: World Wildlife Conservation Day

    Why in the News?

    • World Wildlife Conservation Day (December 4) reminds us to focus on preserving and protecting the critically endangered species in India and globally.
      • The theme for this year is “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation”.

    World Wildlife Conservation Day: Key Facts

    • Observed annually on December 4th.
    • Purpose: Raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the protection of endangered species and their habitats.
    • It was established in 2012 by the UN, coinciding with the anniversary of the 1948 signing of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).
    • It supports global efforts for wildlife conservation, aligns with SDG 15 (life on land) and SDG 14 (life below water).

    Aims for India’s Critically Endangered Species

    • As of 2022, 73 species in India are classified as critically endangered, meaning they are at highest risk of extinction in the wild.
      • The number of critically endangered species has risen from 47 in 2011, partly due to better data availability and monitoring.
    • India has 9 critically endangered mammal species, out of which 8 are endemic (found only in specific regions within India).
      • These include: Kashmir Stag (Hangul), Malabar Large-spotted Civet, Andaman Shrew, Jenkin’s Shrew, Nicobar Shrew, Namdapha Flying Squirrel, Large Rock Rat, and Leafletted Leaf-nosed Bat.
    • Though these animals receive significant attention for tourism purposes, they are only three of the critically endangered species in India.
      • Lions: Asiatic lions in the Gir Forest are critically endangered.
      • Tigers: Bengal tigers are also listed as critically endangered.
      • Cheetahs: They are also part of India’s endangered wildlife.
    • Great Indian Bustard is a bird facing significant threats due to power lines in Rajasthan.

    PYQ:

    [2014] The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life is the establishment of:

    (a) biosphere reserves

    (b) botanical gardens

    (c) national parks

    (d) wildlife sanctuaries

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  • Marburg Virus outbreak in Rwanda

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Marburg Virus

    Why in the News?

    An outbreak of Marburg Virus (Bleeding Eyes) disease (MVD) has killed and infected many in Rwanda.

    rwanda
    Location of Rwanda

    About Marburg Virus:

    Overview • Causes Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), also known as Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever.
    • Belongs to the filovirus family (same as Ebola).
    • Discovered during outbreaks in 1967 in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany.
    • Case Fatality Rate ranges from 24% to 88%, depending on the strain and treatment effectiveness.How does it spread?• Animal to Human Transmission: Spread primarily from Rousettus bats, especially Egyptian fruit bats found in caves or mines.
    • Human to Human Transmission: Spread through direct contact with blood and bodily fluids (saliva, vomit, feces, semen, and breast milk). Also transmitted indirectly through contaminated surfaces or clothing.
    Symptoms and Treatment • Early signs include fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, nausea, vomiting, and severe diarrhoea.

    • Progresses to bleeding from various body parts, and death typically occurs 8-9 days after symptoms due to blood loss and organ failure.
    • No approved vaccine or antiviral treatment. Supportive care includes hydration, symptom management, and blood transfusions. Experimental vaccines are being studied.
    Why is it a Global Concern? • High Fatality Rate: MVD’s case fatality rate (24%-88%) makes it one of the deadliest diseases.
    • Spread: Ongoing outbreaks, primarily in Africa, but now affecting Rwanda and Tanzania.
    • Public Health Threat: Human-to-human transmission and rapid spread pose significant challenges.
    • Economic Impact: Outbreaks disrupt local economies, healthcare systems, and global trade due to travel restrictions and quarantine measures.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Among the following, which were frequently mentioned in the news for the outbreak of Ebola virus recently?

    (a) Syria and Jordan

    (b) Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia

    (c) Philippines and Papua New Guinea

    (d) Jamaica, Haiti and Surinam

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  • Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

    Windfall Gains Tax on Oil Production, Diesel-Petrol Export Removed

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Windfall Gains Tax

    Why in the News?

    With global oil prices stabilizing and domestic fuel supply improving, the government has decided to scrap the windfall gains tax, ensuring more predictable taxation for the oil industry.

    What is Windfall Tax?

    • A windfall tax is a levy imposed on companies experiencing unexpected profits due to external factors like market shifts or crises.
    • In India, it was introduced on July 1, 2022, targeting domestic crude oil production and exports of diesel, petrol, and ATF.
      • The tax aimed to capture windfall profits and ensure adequate domestic fuel supply amid rising global prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    • The tax was imposed as Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) on crude oil, and Additional Excise Duty (AED) or Road and Infrastructure Cess (RIC) on fuel exports.
    • Initially, the tax was Rs 23,250 per tonne on crude oil, Rs 13 per litre on diesel exports, and Rs 6 per litre on petrol and ATF exports.
    • The tax was regularly reviewed based on global oil price fluctuations.

    Impact of Removing Windfall Tax

    • Stable Tax Environment: Boosts predictability, encouraging long-term investments in oil production.
    • Revenue Decline: The tax was generating less revenue, falling from Rs 25,000 crore in FY 2022-23 to Rs 6,000 crore in FY 2024-25.
    • Oil Companies’ Profitability: Increased profits for producers like ONGC and Reliance Industries as they no longer pay the levy.
    • Encourages Domestic Production: Promotes higher domestic oil production and exploration.
    • Policy Confidence: Signals that India is confident in stable global oil prices and future supply.

    PYQ:

    [2020] The term ‘West Texas Intermediate’, sometimes found in news, refers to a grade of:

    (a) Crude oil

    (b) Bullion

    (c) Rare earth elements

    (d) Uranium

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    ecDNA Challenges Law of Genetics

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA)

    Why in the News?

    A recent study published in the ‘Nature’ has shown that Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) is present in approximately 50% of cancer types, playing a significant role in tumor evolution and genetic heterogeneity.

    What is ecDNA?

    Details • ecDNA stands for extrachromosomal DNA, which is small, circular DNA found in the nucleus of cells, separate from regular chromosomes.
    • Forms when DNA breaks off from chromosomes, often due to damage or errors in cell division.
    • Can carry extra copies of oncogenes, which promote cancer growth.
    • Initially thought to be unimportant, recent studies show it plays a major role in cancer.
    How ecDNA Contributes to Cancer and Drug Resistance • Helps Tumors Grow: ecDNA contains extra copies of oncogenes that help cancer cells grow faster and become more aggressive.
    • Drug Resistance: The extra oncogenes make the cancer harder to treat with standard drugs by producing more harmful proteins.
    • Faster Tumor Evolution: ecDNA allows cancer cells to evolve rapidly, making them more resistant to treatments like chemotherapy and enabling the tumor to grow even when drugs are used.

     

    How ecDNA Challenges Genetics Laws?

    • Mendel’s Law says that genes on different chromosomes are inherited independently, meaning they are passed on randomly to the next generation.
    • ecDNA breaks this rule by grouping genes together and passing them on as a cluster during cell division.
    • This allows cancer cells to inherit beneficial genes more easily and helps the tumor grow faster.
    • Unlike regular chromosomes, which are distributed randomly during cell division, ecDNA is passed on together as a package.
    • This process gives cancer cells an advantage by making sure they inherit helpful genetic combinations that support cancer growth and resistance to drugs.

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

    Why in the News?

    The ICIMOD has launched Air Quality Dashboard for Indo-Gangetic Plain.

    ICIMOD Air Quality Dashboard: Important Features

    • The dashboard provides real-time and forecasted air quality data for the region.
    • It uses a combination of ground sensor data and satellite imagery to give a comprehensive view of air pollution across local, sub-regional, and regional scales.
    • A dynamic timelapse powered by the Weather Research and Forecasting model with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) tracks the spread of PM2.5 across the region.
    • This model highlights the spread of pollution from hotspots like Lahore, New Delhi, and Kolkata.
    • It provides two-day forecasts, allowing communities, policymakers, and researchers to anticipate air quality conditions and take proactive measures.

    About the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD):

    Details
    • A regional intergovernmental learning and knowledge-sharing centre founded in 1981.
      • Idea of creating ICIMOD was first discussed at the International Workshop in December 1974.
    • 8 regional member countries of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
      • HKH region encompasses mountain ranges, including the Hindu Kush, Himalayas, and Tibetan Plateau, extending from northern Afghanistan to Myanmar.
    Structural Mandate
    • Headquartered in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, and Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
    • ICIMOD also has a Knowledge Park in Godavari, Lalitpur exhibiting ICIMOD’s research and field applications.
    • Country offices in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
    Functions and Powers
    • Collaborates with national and international scientific institutions, government agencies, donor agencies, and the private sector, both within the region and globally.
    • Key Role: Promotes partnerships among regional member countries to secure a better future for the people and environment of the HKH region.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:

    1. Deep gorges
    2. U-turn river courses
    3. Parallel mountain ranges
    4. Steep gradients causing land sliding

    Which of the above can be said to be the evidence for Himalayas being young fold mountains?

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

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Gandhamardan Hills, Odisha

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Gandhamardan Hills

    Why in the News?

    The Odisha government has clarified that it will not allow bauxite mining in the Gandhamardan hills after concerns arose when the Adani Group’s subsidiary acquired 112 acres of land near the hills.

    Gandhamardan Hills, Odisha

    About Gandhamardan Hills:

    Geographical Features
    • Situated in the western part of Odisha, spread across the Bargarh and Bolangir districts.
    • Covers an area of 190 square kilometers.
    • Dense forests and hill slopes.
    • Plays a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of local communities.
    Mines and Minerals Found
    • Bauxite: Primary ore of aluminum.
    • Graphite: Used in industrial applications.
    • Manganese: Important for steel manufacturing.
    Significance Cultural Sites:

    1. Nrusinghanath Temple: A major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Nrusingha, a half-lion, half-human incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
    2. Harishankar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu, set amidst picturesque surroundings.

    Hiuen Tsang described the hill shrine as a Buddhist heritage site named Parimalagiri in his chronicles.

    – Flora: Rich in medicinal plants.
    – Fauna: Rich biodiversity, including diverse wildlife species.

    Dasycarpa and spider peucetia harishankarensis are endemic to this hill.

    Declared as a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) by the Odisha government in March 2023 (making 37th BHS in India).

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Consider the following pairs :

    Place of Pilgrimage: Location

    1. Srisailam : Nallamala Hills

    2. Omkareshwar : Satmala Hills

    3. Pushkar: Mahadeo Hills

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

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    [pib] Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users’ Conference (AOMSUC-14)

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users' Conference

    Why in the News?

    The 14th Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users’ Conference (AOMSUC-14) will take place from December 4-6, 2024, in New Delhi.

    About AOMSUC:

    Details
    What is it? • It is a conference focused on the use of meteorological satellite data for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and disaster risk management.
    • First AOMSUC was held in Beijing, China in 2010.• Held annually across various locations in the Asia-Oceania region, becoming a significant event for meteorological satellite applications.

    • Participants: WMO, NASA, ESA, JAXA, and other leading space organizations.
    Aims and Provisions • Collaboration: Facilitate regional cooperation in the use of satellite data.
    • Weather & Climate Monitoring: Improve forecasting and monitoring of climate patterns.
    • Disaster Management: Enhance early warning systems for extreme weather events.
    • Capacity Building: Provide training, workshops, and knowledge-sharing opportunities for local meteorologists and satellite data users.
    • Data Sharing: Promote satellite data sharing across countries.
    Significance • Regional Cooperation: Promotes stronger collaboration between Asia-Oceania countries, helping to address shared meteorological challenges.
    • Improved Forecasting: Facilitates the improvement of satellite data usage for more accurate weather forecasts and better disaster risk reduction strategies.

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  • Indian Army Updates

    [pib] Exercise CINBAX

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Exercise CINBAX

    Why in the News?

    The 1st edition of the Joint Table Top Exercise, CINBAX, between the Indian Army and the Cambodian Army commenced at the Foreign Training Node, Pune.

    Note: Aspirants must not get confused with Exercise SIMBEX, which is a bilateral naval exercise between India and Singapore.

    About Exercise CINBAX:

    Details
    • 1st edition of CINBAX is a Joint Table Top Exercise between the Indian Army and Cambodian Army.
    • Focuses on conducting joint Counter Terrorism (CT) operations under UN Chapter VII.
    Objectives
    • Enhance trust and camaraderie between the Indian and Cambodian armies.
    • Improve joint operational efficiency in peacekeeping operations.
    • War-game Counter Terrorism (CT) operations and explore strategies in cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, and other military tactics.
    Features of Exercise
    • 20 personnel from both the Indian and Cambodian Army contingents.
    • 3 phases: Preparation and Orientation, Table Top Exercises, and Finalization of Plans.
    • Focus on Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), and the use of force multipliers in sub-conventional operations.
    • Showcase of indigenous weapons and equipment promoting ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance in defence production).

     

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?

    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 1 and 4

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

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