💥UPSC 2026, 2027, 2028 UAP Mentorship (March Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF

Type: Prelims Only

  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    Prospects and Concerns for the Rabi Crop

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Rabi Cropping Seasons

    Why in the News?

    Due to high October temperatures and shortages of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser, the planting of key Rabi (winter-spring) crops such as wheat, mustard, and chana (chickpea) has been slower than usual.

    Low Rabi Sowing this Year

    • The Rabi (winter-spring) season is key for crops like wheat, mustard, and chana.
    • Sowing began in October and continues through November-December.
    • As of November 8, 2024, sowing progress includes:
      • Wheat: 41.30 lakh hectares (down from 48.87 lakh hectares last year)
      • Mustard: 49.90 lakh hectares (down from 50.73 lakh hectares last year)
      • Chana: 24.57 lakh hectares (down from 27.42 lakh hectares last year)
    • Reasons Behind:
      • High October Temperatures: 0.68°C above normal temperatures delayed sowing and caused poor germination, especially in jeera and other spices.
      • Fertiliser Shortage: A shortage of DAP fertiliser hindered the timely planting of crops.
      • Delayed Start of Sowing: Farmers, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, began sowing later than usual (from October 20-22 instead of mid-October).

    About Rabi Cropping Season in India:

    • Rabi crops are generally sown in mid-November, once the monsoon rains have receded.
    • These crops grow using the rainwater that has percolated into the soil or with the help of irrigation systems.
    • The harvesting of Rabi crops generally occurs from April to May.
    • Major Rabi Crops:
      • Wheat: The largest and most important Rabi crop in India.
      • Barley: Grown mainly in North and Central India.
      • Mustard: An essential oilseed crop grown across various regions.
      • Sesame: Grown in many states but harvested early.
      • Peas: Harvested early, with a market peak from January to March (especially in February).
    • Agronomic Features:
      • Rabi crops rely heavily on irrigation and residual moisture from the previous monsoon season.
      • Excessive winter rainfall can harm Rabi crops but benefits the kharif crops grown later.
    rabi crop
    PC: Wikipedia

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following crops:

    1. Cotton
    2. Groundnut
    3. Rice
    4. Wheat

    Which of these are Kharif crops?

    (a) 1 and 4

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

    North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Why in the News?

    • The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) has appealed to Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeking permission for tea producers to sell their products through both private sales and public auction systems.
      • A gazette notification issued on February 26, 2024 has mandated that 100% of dust teas must be sold through public auctions.

    About North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Details NETA is an association of tea producers headquartered in Golaghat, Upper Assam.
    Established in 1981.
    • A key constituent of the Joint Forum and the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), Assam Valley branch.
    • Focuses on promoting the interests of its members and enhancing the tea industry in Assam.
    Structural Mandate Presence: Strong presence in Golaghat, Assam.
    Role: Represents tea producers and plays a pivotal role in the development of Assam’s tea industry.
    Mandate: Advocates for improvements in the tea industry, assists with policy suggestions, and provides guidance on the development of the tea sector.
    Powers and Functions Advisory Role: Provides expert opinions and advice to the government of Assam and its members on issues related to the tea industry.
    Policy Advocacy: Urges for changes in government policies to improve the tea industry, e.g., suggesting the relocation of the Tea Board of India’s headquarters to Guwahati.
    Industry Growth: Encourages high-quality tea production and advises growers to enhance the quality of tea to attract international buyers.
    Small Tea Grower Representation: Advocates for amendments to the definition of Small Tea Growers, proposing that those holding up to 50.6 hectares of land be recognized as small growers.
    Government Relations: Provides suggestions to the government for improving and scaling up the tea industry in Assam.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Consider the following States:

    1. Andhra Pradesh
    2. Kerala
    3. Himachal Pradesh
    4. Tripura

    How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?

    (a) Only one State

    (b) Only two States

    (c) Only three States

    (d) All four States

  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

    Why in the News?

    The Tamil Nadu CM has requested the Prime Minister to cancel the tungsten mining rights in Madurai, citing concerns for the Arittapatti biodiversity heritage site.

    About Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:

    Details First BHS in Tamil Nadu.
    • Notified for its ecological and historical significance.
    Geological Features • Surrounded by a chain of seven hillocks (inselbergs) which act as a watershed.
    • Watershed feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check dams.
    • Historic Anaikondan tank built during the Pandiyan kings in the 16th century.
    Flora and Fauna • Home to 250 species of birds, including Laggar Falcon, Shaheen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle.
    • Hosts species like Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons.
    Cultural Significance • Presence of megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds.
    • These features highlight the site’s historical and cultural heritage.

     

    Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

    Back2Basics: Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)

    • A BHS is a well-defined, ecologically sensitive area that is recognized for its high biological diversity.
    • Key Features:
      • High Biodiversity: These sites host a variety of wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.
      • Ecological Fragility: BHS areas are considered ecologically fragile and are crucial for maintaining local ecosystems.
      • Community Involvement: BHS areas are managed by local communities and society to conserve biodiversity.
    • BHS are declared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the State Government can notify such areas in consultation with local bodies.
    • The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in India, declared in 2007.
    • Protection Measures:
      • The creation of a BHS does not necessarily restrict activities but aims to conserve and manage the biodiversity within these areas for long-term sustainability.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

    (a) Birds
    (b) Primates
    (c) Reptiles
    (d) Amphibians

  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    [pib] Conservation and Maintenance Work of Protected Monuments

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: About the Monuments

    Why in the News?

    Conservation and maintenance work are being carried out at following places in Karnataka by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

    Key Facts
    Hoyasaleshwara Temple

    • Located in Halebidu, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 12th century during the Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvardhana.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Famous for its detailed sculptures, depicting mythological stories, deities, and animals.
    Hoysala style architecture with a star-shaped platform and intricate stone carvings.
    • Temple is a masterpiece of the Hoysala architectural style, with complex stonework and frieze detailing.
    UNESCO tentative list for World Heritage status.
    Amrutheshwara Temple

    • Located in Amruthapura, Karnataka, near Tarikere.
    • Built in the 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Architectural style reflects Vijayanagara influence with a prominent pillared hall.
    • Famous for its stone carvings, particularly those on the Shiva Linga.
    • Notable for its tank and the beautiful courtyard surrounding the temple.
    • Temple follows the tradition of Chola and Hoysala architecture, with distinct Vijayanagara elements.
    Gol Gumbaz

    • Located in Vijayapura, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate as his tomb.
    Second-largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
    Acoustic marvel: The dome has a whispering gallery, where sounds can be heard clearly from great distances.
    • The central dome spans 44 meters in diameter and is flanked by four towers.
    • The structure is made of lime mortar and stone.
    • Reflects Deccan Sultanate architectural brilliance, combining Persian, Ottoman, and Indian elements.
    Gomatesvara Temple

    • Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
    • Features the 57-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomatesvara), carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD.
    • The statue is the largest monolithic statue in India.
    • A major pilgrimage site for Jains; it commemorates the spiritual enlightenment of Bahubali.
    • The temple complex includes tall steps leading up to the statue, with pilgrims performing a ritual of climbing the steps.
    Maha Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the statue is anointed with milk, water, and saffron in a grand ritual.
    • The temple and statue are considered an architectural marvel in Jain art and sculpture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    (a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar

    (b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli

    (c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram

    (d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri

  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    [pib] Indian Chemical Council wins 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) was honored with the prestigious Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties.

    Significance of the OPCW-The Hague Award

    • Purpose: The award recognizes contributions to advancing the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), focusing on chemical safety, disarmament, and global security.
      • This year, the award was given to the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the first chemical industry body to receive it, for its role in promoting chemical safety and CWC compliance.
    • Global Impact: The award emphasizes ICC’s work in collaboration with international bodies and advocacy for sustainable practices in chemical security.
    • Legacy: The OPCW, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, continues to honor impactful organizations and individuals contributing to the global disarmament agenda.

     

    What is the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)?

    Details
    What is it? CWC bans the development, use, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and mandates their destruction.
    Genesis: Negotiations began in 1980.
    Established: Opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997.
    • More comprehensive than the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only banned the use of chemical weapons.
    Structure and Functions Conference of States Parties (CSP): The main decision-making body, meeting annually.
    Executive Council: 41-member body overseeing CWC implementation.
    Technical Secretariat: Provides support for verification and compliance.
    Verification: Inspects facilities and ensures compliance with the treaty.
    Membership criteria and members Open to all nations: Any state can join if it meets requirements.
    193 States-Parties: Includes most nations.
    Non-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have neither signed nor ratified the CWC.
    Functioning Arm Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) implements the CWC, headquartered in The Hague.
    Role: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapons and ensures treaty compliance.
    Inspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities worldwide.
    Awards: The OPCW won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in chemical weapons elimination.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:

    1. It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
    2. It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
    3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • Cyclone Fengal

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cyclone Fengal

    Why in the News?

    • A depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to further intensify into Cyclone Fengal.
      • The system is currently close to an area with higher sea surface temperatures (SST), contributing to its potential intensification into a cyclonic storm.

    Origin of the Name ‘Fengal’

    • The name ‘Fengal’ was proposed by Saudi Arabia and is rooted in Arabic.
    • It reflects a combination of linguistic tradition and cultural identity.

    Cyclone Naming Process:

    • Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean are named by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) panel.
    • This panel includes 13 member countries, such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, among others.
      • Each member country submits a list of potential cyclone names, and these names are used sequentially as cyclones form in the region.
      • This system, in place since 2004, ensures easy identification and effective communication of storms to the public.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?

    (a) Sea Surface temperature are low

    (b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

    (c) Coriolis force is too weak

    (d) Absence of land in those regions

  • 5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly

    5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    Why in the News?

    On Constitution Day (November 26), President Murmu acknowledged the significant role of women members in the Constituent Assembly of India.

    5 Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly

    Name Their Contributions
    Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978) • Co-founded the Women’s India Association in 1917 with leaders like Annie Besant.
    • Advocated for women’s education and rights.
    • Spoke on the Hindu Code Bill and gender equality in the Constituent Assembly.
    • Became the first woman elected to the Madras legislature.
    • After independence, served as India’s goodwill ambassador to countries like Russia, China, and the US.
    Annie Mascarene (1902-1963) • Born in Travancore to a Latin Christian family considered at the bottom of the caste system.
    • Advocated for universal adult franchise and against caste-based voting rights.
    • Joined the Travancore State Congress and fought for political representation of marginalized communities.
    • As a member of the Constituent Assembly, called for a strong Centre and autonomy for local governments.
    Elected as an independent candidate in 1952 from Thiruvananthapuram.
    Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001) • Hailing from a prominent family in Punjab, she faced resistance for her education, with a fatwa issued against her convent schooling.
    Fought for women’s rights and opposed separate electorates based on religion.
    Stayed in India post-partition and joined the Indian National Congress.
    Elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1952.
    • Helped promote women’s hockey in India.
    Dakshayani Velayudhan (1912-1978) First Dalit woman to graduate in science and the first Dalit woman in the Cochin Legislative Council.
    • Advocated for nationalism and opposed separate electorates for Dalits.
    • Strongly committed to social justice despite facing discrimination.
    • After independence, remained involved in the Dalit movement and continued advocating for social justice.
    Renuka Ray (1904-1997) • Came from an affluent family with a civil servant father and a progressive mother.
    • Joined the freedom struggle after meeting Mahatma Gandhi in 1920.
    • Advocated for women’s rights, particularly on divorce and inheritance.
    Represented women’s organizations in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1943.
    Opposed women’s reservation in legislatures, seeing it as a hindrance to women’s growth.
    • After losing the 1952 elections, returned to politics and worked on women’s empowerment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for:

    (a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
    (b) Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
    (c) Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
    (d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

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

    National Milk Day

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

    National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

    About National Milk Day:

    Details • Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
    • Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.
    Contributions made by Varghese Kurien • Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
    • Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
    Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
    • Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
    • Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
    About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
    Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
    • By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
    Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
    • Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
    • Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

    India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. 
  • Interstate River Water Dispute

    In news: Pennaiyar River

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Pennaiyar River

    In news: Pennaiyar River

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit the report on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Pennaiyar River Water Dispute.

    About Pennaiyar River

    Origin and Geological Composition • Also known as Thenpennai, originates on the eastern slope of Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu into the Bay of Bengal.
    Length: 497 km (2nd longest in TN); Catchment area: 3,690 km².
    77% of the drainage basin lies in Tamil Nadu.
    Bounded by the Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats.
    • Lies in the tropical monsoon zone with monsoon (June–December) and non-monsoon (January–May) periods.
    Tributaries Tributaries include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar.
    • Supported by monsoonal rains and reservoirs like Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur Dams.
    Important Sites along its Basin • Mentioned in Sangam literature for its lush vegetation.
    • Important temples include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, and Kabilar Kundru.
    Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a key protected area near the river.
    Used for irrigation in districts such as Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Viluppuram, and Cuddalore.

     

    PYQ:

    [2004] Assertion (A): West- flowing rivers of Peninsular India have no deltas:

    Reason (R): These Rivers do not carry any alluvial sediments.

    1. Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
    2. Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
    3. A is true but R is false
    4. A is false but R is true
  • National Green Tribunal’s Role and Contributions

    NGT issues notice to Centre on expansion of Glacial Lakes

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Green Tribunal

    Why in the News?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of the alarming rise in the number of Himalayan glacial lakes due to rising temperatures, highlighting the growing risk of natural disasters like floods and landslides.

    Central Water Commission’s (CWC) report on Glacial Lakes

    • Glacial lakes in the Himalayas have expanded by 10.81% in 13 years due to glacier melting caused by rising temperatures.
    • Between 2011 and 2024, India’s glacial lakes grew by 33.7%, highlighting the escalating threat.
    • The NGT noted that 67 lakes in India saw a surface area increase of over 40%, marking them as high-risk for GLOFs.
    • Key areas of expansion include Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.

    About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

    About Establishment:

    • Formed in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act as a statutory body.
    • Aimed at addressing environmental issues and ensuring speedy implementation of decisions.
    • Known for making significant decisions, including addressing air pollution in Delhi and cancelling coal block clearances.

    Composition:

    • Headquartered in Delhi.
    • Chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge.
    • Includes Judicial Members and Expert Panel.

    Benches:

    • Principal bench in Delhi.
    • Additional benches in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai.

    Powers and Functions of NGT • Empowered to decide on cases related to various environmental laws and hear civil cases concerning environmental issues.
    • Responsible for enforcement of:
    – The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
    – The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
    – The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and more.Exceptions:

    • Not authorized to hear cases under:
    – The Indian Forest Act, 1927
    – The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
    – State laws related to the protection of trees, forests, etc.

    Governing Principles:

    • Governed by principles of natural justice, not bound by the Indian Evidence Act.
    • Applies the principles of sustainable development, precautionary approach, and the polluter pays principle.

    Review and Challenge:

    • NGT orders can be reviewed under Rule 22 of NGT Rules.
    • Orders can be challenged before the Supreme Court within ninety days.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?

    1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.

    2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.

    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