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

HAL becomes 14th Maharatna Company in India

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: HAL, Maharatna Status

Why in the News?

The Centre has upgraded the status of PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) as Maharatna Company (from earlier Navratna Status).

About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL): Key Facts

HAL was founded in 1940 in Bangalore as Hindustan Aircraft Limited, merging with Aeronautics India Limited in 1964 to become HAL.
It is a state-owned company under the Ministry of Defence.
Headquarters are in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Operates 20 production and R&D centers across India, including Bangalore, Nashik, Koraput, and Lucknow.
Focuses on design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, engines, avionics, and aerospace equipment.
Produces fighter aircraft like Tejas LCA, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Jaguar, and Hawk.
- Manufactures helicopters including Dhruv ALH, Rudra, Cheetah, Chetak, and LCH.
Collaborates with Boeing, Airbus, Rosoboronexport, and Safran on aircraft production and tech transfer.
Listed on BSE and NSE in 2018, allowing public investment.
Expanded exports, supplying aircraft and helicopter parts to countries like Vietnam, Mauritius, and Ecuador.
- Recent projects include AMCA, IMRH, and Tejas Mk2, boosting India’s indigenous defense capabilities.

About Maharatna Companies

	Details
What is it?	• Recognition granted to select Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India. • Provides greater financial and operational autonomy compared to Navratna and Miniratna PSUs.
Eligibility	• Annual Turnover: Over ₹25,000 crore in the last three years. • Net Worth: More than ₹15,000 crore over the last three years. • Net Profit: Minimum of ₹5,000 crore for three consecutive years. • Must have significant global operations or international presence.
Autonomy	• Can invest up to ₹5,000 crore or 15% of their net worth in a single project without government approval. • Authorized to make equity investments for strategic resources or collaborations in India and abroad.
Purpose	• Aims to foster more flexibility in operations and encourage expansion, especially in international markets. • Helps companies to become global players.
Examples	• Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) • Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) • Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) • Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
Significance	• Enhances the ability of PSUs to compete globally. • Allows quicker decision-making and reduces bureaucratic hurdles. • Promotes growth and competitiveness in the international arena.

Benefits of Maharatna Status for HAL

HAL can now invest up to ₹5,000 crore (from earlier ₹1000 cr) or 15% of its net worth (whichever is applicable) in a single project without needing government approval.
As a Maharatna company, HAL has the freedom to engage in mergers, acquisitions, and strategic investments, both domestically and internationally.

PYQ:

[2011] Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equity in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?

1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external debt.

2. The Government no longer intends to retain the management control of the CPSEs.

Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

[pib] International Abhidhamma Divas

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Abhidhamma Divas

Why in the News?

PM has participated in the celebration of International Abhidhamma Divas and recognition of Pali as a classical language.

What is Abhidhamma?

Abhidhamma means “Higher Teaching” or “Special Teaching” in Pali, one of the three main divisions of the Tripitaka (Abhidhamma Pitaka) of Theravada Buddhism.
It offers a systematic and analytical exploration of mind and matter, delving deeper into Buddhist philosophy than the Sutta Pitaka.
The Abhidhamma explores mental states, consciousness, and psychological processes, providing a framework for understanding reality.
It is known for its technical and specialized vocabulary in Pali, such as:
- Chitta (consciousness)
- Chetasika (mental factors)
- Rupa (materiality)
- Nibbana (final liberation).
Abhidhamma Pitaka contains seven treatises, with Pannhana being one of the most notable for its analysis of causal relationships.
Traditionally, Buddha is believed to have taught the Abhidhamma to the gods in the Tavatimsa heaven, later sharing the teachings with his disciple Sariputta.

About International Abhidhamma Divas

It is celebrated Ashwin Purnima (Full Moon), to commemorate Buddha’s descent from Tavatimsa-devaloka (a celestial realm) to Sankassiya (Sankisa Basantapur, UP).
- It actually marks the conclusion of a 3-month rain retreat, known as Varsavasa or Vasa, during which monks remain in a single location for meditation and prayer.
The celebration involves Dhamma discourses, academic sessions, and exhibitions that connect ancient wisdom with modern spiritual practices.
Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, hosts the event, organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

Teachings of Abhidhamma

The Abhidhamma provides a detailed framework for understanding the mind, matter, and existence.
It addresses complex concepts like birth, death, and mental phenomena in a precise and abstract manner.
Abhidhamma is known for its analytical approach:
- It categorizes mental states and emotions.
- It explains causal relationships that determine mental and material phenomena.
The teachings cover topics like:
- Moral and mental states
- Aggregates (components of existence)
- Causal links
- Path to enlightenment.

Historical Background and Significance

Abhidhamma Divas commemorates the day when Lord Buddha returned to earth after teaching the Abhidhamma in the Tavatimsa realm.
The descent is marked by the Ashokan Elephant Pillar at Sankassiya, highlighting its historical significance.
The celebration coincides with the end of the Rainy Retreat (Vassa), a period of monastic seclusion, and the Pavarana festival, a time of mutual reflection among monks.

Classical Status to Pali Language

In 2024, the event holds special significance due to the recognition of Pali as a Classical Language by the Indian government.
Pali is the ancient language in which much of Buddhist canonical literature is written, including the Tipitaka.
Recognized as a Classical Language by the Government of India in 2024, alongside Marathi, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
Pali’s significance lies in its role as the medium for delivering Buddha’s teachings, especially the Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka.
The Tipitaka is composed of:
- Vinaya Pitaka: Ethical rules for monks and nuns.
- Sutta Pitaka: Discourses and teachings of Buddha.
- Abhidhamma Pitaka: Detailed analysis of mental and physical phenomena.
Pali has a rich tradition of commentaries such as Atthasalini and Sammohavinodani, which aid in understanding Abhidhamma concepts.

PYQ:

[2020] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

[2016] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to Enlightenment.
Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary

Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in the News?

The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved 5 crucial roads, including 4 that pass through the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- These include a route to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), India’s northernmost military outpost in Ladakh, which also houses the country’s highest airstrip.

About Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary:

	Details
Location	Ladakh, India, situated in the eastern part of the Karakoram Range.
Area	5,000 sq km (approximately), making it one of the largest high-altitude protected areas in India.
Altitude Range	Ranges from about 4,200m to over 7,500m at the peak of *Saltoro Kangri*.
Climate	Characterized by a cold desert climate, with harsh winters, low temperatures, and limited vegetation. The region experiences snowfall during winter and temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F). Summer temperatures are also low, typically ranging between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
Biodiversity	*Home to species like the snow leopard, Tibetan antelope (chiru), Tibetan wild ass (kiang), ibex, and blue sheep (Bharal***). The sanctuary also supports migratory bird species during certain times of the year.
Flora	Sparse vegetation, with cold desert flora, including hardy grasses, shrubs, and medicinal plants.
Rivers	Shyok and Nubra Rivers flow through the Ladakh region, providing crucial water sources for the sanctuary.
Significance	Part of the larger trans-Himalayan ecosystem, offering a habitat for some of the rarest and most endangered species in the world.
Conservation Challenges	Harsh climatic conditions, limited accessibility, and poaching threats to species like the chiru, whose undercoat is highly prized.
Tourism and Access	Restricted due to its proximity to the international border with China. Special permits are required for researchers and travelers.

PYQ:

[2020] Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?

(a) Kanha National Park

(b) Manas National Park

(d) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary

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Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

UAE to review India’s concerns on surge in Silver, Platinum Alloy imports

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: India-UAE CEPA

Why in the News?

India has raised concerns over the increase in imports of silver products, platinum alloy, and dry dates from the UAE under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Issues Raised by India:

The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has called for an urgent review of the India-UAE CEPA, citing concerns that the agreement allows unlimited imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs.
GTRI claims that many of these imports do not meet Rules of Origin requirements and thus should not qualify for concessions.
- India’s gold and silver imports from the UAE increased by 210% to $10.7 billion in 2023-24.
- India allows customs duty concessions of 7% on silver and 1% on 160 metric tonnes of gold under the agreement.
India also requested that the Indian Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai be classified as a Designated Zone to allow domestic jewellery manufacturers to benefit from concessional duties, including those not registered under UAE’s domestic regulations.
India also requested the UAE to grant recognition to the i-CAS (India Conformity Assessment Scheme) Halal scheme to simplify the certification process and boost exports of animal products.
The UAE expressed its willingness to review this request after consulting internal stakeholders, including federal tax authorities.

India-UAE Trade Relations:

	Details
Volume	• The UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner with $83.65 billion in bilateral trade in 2023-24. • Trade between India and UAE grew from $180 million in the 1970s to $85 billion in 2022-23.
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)	• Signed in February 2022, making India the first country to sign such an agreement with the UAE. • CEPA has slashed tariffs on 80% of goods and offers zero duty access to 90% of Indian exports to the UAE.
Non-Oil Trade Target	• The target of reaching $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030 is seen as achievable given current growth trends.
Investment from UAE	• UAE’s investments in India are around $20-21 billion, with $15.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). • The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has invested in projects like the NIIF Master Fund and renewable energy initiatives.
India’s Exports to UAE	• UAE is India’s 2nd largest export destination after the US, with exports worth $31.61 billion in 2022-23. • Key exports include petroleum products, gems, food items, textiles, and engineering goods.
India’s Imports from UAE	• UAE is a critical partner for India’s energy security. • India imports petroleum, gems, minerals, and chemicals from UAE. • UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest for LNG and LPG.

PYQ:

[2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics?

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Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

India-US conclude $3.5bn deal for 31 MQ-9B Armed UAVs

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

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: MQ-9B HALE UAV and its features
Why in the News?

India and the US concluded a $3.5 bn deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).

About MQ-9B HALE UAV
- The MQ-9B drone is a version of the MQ-9 “Reaper” and has two models: Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
- It is built by the General Atomics.
- This drone can fly over 40,000 feet high, making it useful for watching the Himalayan border areas.
- It can stay in the air for up to 40 hours, perfect for long surveillance missions.
- The MQ-9B has advanced features like automatic take-off and landing, a system to avoid other objects, secure GPS, and encrypted communications.
- Deployment:
  - The MQ-9B drones are planned to be deployed at four places, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat, by the Indian Navy.
  - The other two services will keep them jointly at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh at Air Force bases due to long runway requirements.
Details of the Procurement:
- India is planning for 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians (eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
- The Indian Navy has leased two MQ-9As with the maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
- As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations.
Significance of the deal
- The SeaGuardian model can help the Navy patrol large areas more economically than manned aircraft.
- For the Army and Air Force, these drones will help monitor movements along the borders, especially with China.
- It can offer 80% of a manned aircraft’s capabilities at 20% of the cost per hour.
PYQ:

[2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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LGBT Rights – Transgender Bill, Sec. 377, etc.

Article 142 of the Indian Constitution

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Article 142

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court declined a PIL seeking directions under Article 142 to include sexual offences against men, trans-persons, and animals in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Supreme Court’s Observations:

The petitioner argued that the new BNS omitted Section 377 of the IPC, which previously criminalized ‘unnatural sex’ and carnal intercourse involving a man, woman, or animal.
In the Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 to the extent that it criminalized consensual sexual acts between adults.
Non-consensual homosexual acts remained punishable under this provision.
The BNS does not include provisions criminalizing sexual offences against men, trans persons, and animals.
During the hearing, the bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that:
- The Court cannot direct Parliament to create or reintroduce an offence.
- The creation of offences falls within the parliamentary domain, not under the court’s jurisdiction, even with Article 142.

About Article 142:

	Details
Definition	• Grants discretionary power to the Supreme Court to pass orders or decrees necessary for complete justice in matters before it. • Allows the court to act beyond the limits of statutory law if required.
Purpose	• Ensures justice is delivered in cases where regular laws may not provide adequate remedies. • Aims to empower the Supreme Court to address extraordinary situations effectively.
Key Clauses	• Article 142(1): Allows the Supreme Court to pass enforceable orders across India for doing complete justice. • Article 142(2): Empowers the court to secure attendance, discovery of documents, or punishment for contempt.
Notable Cases	• Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1989): Supreme Court awarded $470 million compensation, bypassing limitations of ordinary law. • Ayodhya Case (2019): Directed the formation of a trust for Ram Mandir construction.• Liquor Sale Ban (2016): Imposed a 500-metre ban on liquor shops along highways using Article 142, extending it beyond central government orders.
Constructive Application	• Invoked for environmental protection, such as in the Taj Mahal cleanup. • Justice for undertrials by addressing systemic delays in the judicial process.
Controversies	• Accusations of judicial overreach in certain cases, where actions have seemingly breached the separation of powers principle. • Supreme Court Bar Association v. Union of India: Clarified that Article 142 should supplement, not replace the law.
Impact on Governance	• Empowers the Supreme Court with a tool for upholding justice, but raises debates over checks and balances in a democratic system.

PYQ:

[2019] With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following?

(a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.

(b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.

(c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.

(d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.

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Nobel and other Prizes

Nobel Prize in Economics, 2024

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3:

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Nobel Prize in Economics

Why in the News?

The Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics for 2024 was awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson for their research into why some nations are more prosperous than others.

What is the Nobel Economics Prize?

Officially called the Bank of Sweden Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, established in 1968.
It is not part of the original Nobel Prizes created by Alfred Nobel in 1895.
Created by the Swedish central bank to honor Alfred Nobel’s legacy.
Although not an original Nobel Prize, it is presented alongside the other Nobel Prizes on December 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death.
Includes a diploma, gold medal, and a one-million-dollar prize for the laureates.

This Year’s Nobel for Economics:

The 2024 Nobel awardees’ research focused on the role of societal institutions in determining a country’s economic prosperity.
The laureates distinguished between inclusive institutions, which promote democracy, rule of law, and protection of property rights, and extractive institutions, where power is concentrated and resources are exploited for the benefit of a few.
Their study explains how inclusive institutions foster long-term economic growth by providing stability and incentives, while extractive institutions undermine growth by discouraging investment and innovation.
The researchers also explored how European colonization shaped current economic disparities by establishing either inclusive or extractive institutions, with decisions influenced by factors such as mortality risks during colonization.

Significance of the study

The study highlights the critical role of societal institutions in determining a country’s prosperity.
It distinguishes between inclusive institutions that foster growth and extractive institutions that hinder it.
It explains how colonial history shaped modern economic disparities.
The research offers policy insights for building inclusive institutions to promote long-term prosperity.
It has global implications for reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development.

PYQ:

[2019] The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order.’ Elaborate.

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Tuberculosis Elimination Strategy

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Bacteria

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: Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Bacteria

Why in the News?

Due to increasing antimicrobial resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), many existing antibiotics are becoming less effective.
- As a result, researchers are studying Mtb to identify key proteins and design new drugs to target them.

What is Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)?

Mtb is the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB), affecting the lungs and sometimes spreading to other organs.
It spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing by an infected person.
Mtb can remain dormant in the body for years without causing active disease.
It infects macrophages, immune cells designed to destroy invaders, but instead, Mtb survives and multiplies inside them.

What do various studies say?

A 2024 CSIR-CCMB study showed that Mtb uses cysteine synthase enzymes to survive oxidative stress.
A 2017 Karolinska Institute study identified 71 compounds that inhibit these enzymes, improving the effectiveness of antibiotics like isoniazid.
Researchers found that Mtb’s ability to evade the immune system is due to its long evolution with humans.
Other studies focus on Mtb’s phosphate and carbon metabolism, critical for its survival in hostile environments.
Ways for effective medicine development:
- Target enzymes like CysK2 and CysM to weaken Mtb’s defence mechanisms.
- Study Mtb’s metabolic pathways to identify vulnerabilities for new drug development.
- Explore how Mtb develops antibiotic resistance and find ways to overcome it.
- Investigate how Mtb evades immune responses by manipulating immune cells.
- Combine new inhibitors with existing antibiotics to enhance treatment efficacy.

PYQ:

[2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

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The Crisis In The Middle East

What is THAAD?

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Organized Crime & Terrorism

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: THAAD Defense System

thaad

Why in the News?

The US has announced that it will send its advanced THAAD (Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense) missile system to Israel, along with US troops to operate it.

What is THAAD?

THAAD is an advanced missile defense system developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation in the 1990s.
It is designed to intercept and destroy short-range (up to 1,000 km), medium-range (1,000–3,000 km), and intermediate-range (3,000–5,000 km) ballistic missile threats during their terminal phase of flight.

Key Features of THAAD:

- Uses “hit-to-kill” technology to destroy missiles.
- Can defend a larger area than the older Patriot Air and Missile Defense System.
- Provides a rapidly deployable capability both inside and outside the atmosphere.

India’s AD-1 missile interceptor under the Phase 2 Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, is similar to the THAAD missile system used by the US.

AD-1 and AD-2 interceptor missiles are developed to intercept ballistic missiles, including ICBMs, with ranges over 2,000 km.
Swordfish LRTR, derived from Israel’s Green Pine radar, has an upgraded detection range of 1,500 km for enhanced missile tracking.
The system intercepts both exo-atmospherically and endo-atmospherically, creating a comprehensive missile defence shield.
It can manage multiple missile threats simultaneously, ensuring defence against complex attack scenarios.
A floating test range is being developed for missile trials over the sea, enabling tests at higher altitudes and ranges up to 1,500 km.
INS Dhruv, equipped with advanced radars, monitors missile tests and supports surveillance during defense operations.

Significance of Sending THAAD to Israel

The decision to send THAAD to Israel is significant for several reasons:

It is part of broader US military adjustments in the region to support Israel’s defense and protect Americans from attacks by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias.
The deployment signals increased US involvement in the conflict.

PYQ:

[2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

(a) An Israeli radar system

(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

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The Crisis In The Middle East

Nile nations agree on Water-Sharing without Egypt’s nod

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Nile River System

nile river

Why in the News?

A regional partnership of 10 countries announced that an agreement on the equitable use of Nile River water resources has come into effect, despite Egypt’s opposition.

Why discuss this?

The legal status of the “cooperative framework” was confirmed by the African Union after South Sudan joined the treaty.
The treaty is backed by the Nile Basin Initiative.
Countries Involved:
- Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the agreement.
- Egypt and Sudan have refused to sign.
- Congo abstained, while Kenya has yet to submit its ratification documents.

About Nile River:

	Details
Length	Approximately 6,650 km (4,130 miles), making it the longest river in the world.
Tributaries	White Nile (originating from Lake Victoria in Uganda) and Blue Nile (originating from Lake Tana in Ethiopia).
Countries Traversed	11 countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
Source	White Nile from Lake Victoria, Blue Nile from Lake Tana.
Mouth	Mediterranean Sea, forming the Nile Delta in Egypt.
Major Cities	Includes Cairo, Khartoum, and Alexandria.
Key Dams	Aswan High Dam (Egypt), controls flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and forms Lake Nasser. Built in 1970 across the Nile in Aswan, Egypt; helps in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation but also disrupts silt flow.
Economic Importance	Provides over 90% of water for Egypt and Sudan; vital for agriculture, fishing, industry, and energy production.
Disputes	Between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights, particularly due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Historical Treaties	1929 and 1959 Nile Water Agreements allocated water mostly to Egypt and Sudan; upstream countries seek revision. Nile Basin Initiative (NBI): Established in 1999, it is a partnership among Nile Basin countries aimed at promoting cooperation, development, and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources.

PYQ:

[2020] Consider the following pairs:

	River	Flows into
1.	Mekong	Andaman Sea
2.	Thames	Irish Sea
3.	Volga	Caspian Sea
4.	Zambezi	Indian Ocean

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

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 4 only

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the News?

About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL): Key Facts

About Maharatna Companies

Benefits of Maharatna Status for HAL

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Abhidhamma?

About International Abhidhamma Divas

Teachings of Abhidhamma

Historical Background and Significance

Classical Status to Pali Language

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Issues Raised by India:

India-UAE Trade Relations:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About MQ-9B HALE UAV

Details of the Procurement:

Significance of the deal

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Supreme Court’s Observations:

About Article 142:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the Nobel Economics Prize?

This Year’s Nobel for Economics:

Significance of the study

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)?

What do various studies say?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is THAAD?

India’s AD-1 missile interceptor under the Phase 2 Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, is similar to the THAAD missile system used by the US.

Significance of Sending THAAD to Israel

Why in the News?

Why discuss this?

About Nile River:

PYQ: