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Type: Prelims Only

  • 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

     

  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment (BioE3) Policy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: BioE3 Policy

    Why in the News?

    After the BioE3 Policy approval in August 2024, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) held consultations with State governments on setting up biomanufacturing facilities across India.

    What is the BioE3 Policy?

    • It is a national initiative by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology to promote biomanufacturing and a circular bioeconomy in India.
      • Biomanufacturing involves the industrial production of bio-products such as biopolymers, enzymes, smart proteins, functional foods, precision biotherapeutics, and climate-resilient agricultural products.
    • It focuses on scaling up biotechnology-based industries, enhancing research and innovation, and creating employment opportunities in sustainable bio-based sectors.
    • It aligns with India’s Net Zero carbon commitment and aims to make biomanufacturing a key driver of economic growth.

    Objectives and Features of the BioE3 Policy

    • Promoting Biomanufacturing: Establishing biomanufacturing hubs and biofoundries to produce bio-based chemicals, polymers, and enzymes.
    • Strengthening R&D and Innovation: Encouraging state-driven biotechnology policies, bio-AI hubs, and technology-driven bioindustries.
    • State-Centric Implementation: States will adopt at least two thematic areas under BioE3, focusing on local bio-based industries and sustainable agriculture.
    • Workforce Development: Expanding biotechnology training programs in Tier-II and Tier-III cities to build a skilled workforce.
    • Biosafety and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to global biosafety standards and responsible biotechnology innovation.
    • Carbon Capture and Sustainability: Supporting carbon sequestration technologies and climate-resilient agriculture to mitigate climate change impacts.
    • Encouraging Private Sector Investment: Creating a business-friendly environment for biotech startups, public-private partnerships, and global collaborations.

    Programs Implemented Under the BioE3 Policy:

    • State-Centric BioE3 Cells: Dedicated cells will be established in State departments to coordinate investments, research, and policy execution.
    • Precision Biotherapeutics and Functional Foods Initiative: Research into next-generation bio-based medicines, smart proteins, and functional foods.
    • Carbon Capture and Bioeconomy Models: Development of technologies for carbon sequestration and sustainable bio-based industrial processes.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions to drive biomanufacturing investments and commercialization.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements:

    1. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.

    2. Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere.

    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

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

    10 New Agricultural Commodities added to the E-NAM platform

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: electronic-National Agriculture Market (E-NAM)

    Why in the News?

    The Agriculture Ministry has allowed trading of 10 additional commodities on the electronic-National Agriculture Market (E-NAM), taking the total number of tradable items on the platform to 231.

    About the 10 new commodities:

    The newly added commodities include dried Tulsi leaves, Besant (Chickpea flour), wheat flour, chana sattu (Roasted Chickpea Flour), water Chestnut flour, asafoetida, dried fenugreek leaves, baby corn, dragon fruit and water Chestnut, the ministry said in a statement.

    Current Status of E-NAM (As of December 2024):

    • 1,410 mandis connected across 22 states and Union Territories.
    • Inter-state trade worth ₹5,022 crore has been recorded.
    • ₹6,831 crore e-payments made across 948 mandis.
    • Trade in 1.44 lakh metric tonnes of grains and 3.4 crore units of perishable commodities such as bamboo, betel leaves, coconuts, and lemons.

    What is E-NAM?

    • E-NAM is a pan-India electronic trading platform launched by the Government of India on April 14, 2016.
    • It integrates existing Agriculture Produce Market Committees (APMCs) to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities.
    • The Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, is the implementing agency for e-NAM.
    • The platform enables farmers, traders, and buyers to trade agricultural commodities online, across states, ensuring better price discovery and transparency.

    Objectives of e-NAM

    • Improve market efficiency by integrating APMC mandis into a unified online platform.
    • Enhance price discovery through a competitive bidding process, ensuring fair market prices for farmers.
    • Promote inter-state trade by removing barriers and unifying agricultural markets across India.
    • Reduce dependency on middlemen, ensuring direct benefits to farmers.
    • Facilitate e-payments to ensure quick and transparent financial transactions for farmers.

    What is E-NAM 2.0?

    • E-NAM 2.0 is an upgraded version of the Electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), launched to improve inter-state agricultural trade, logistics, and digital accessibility for farmers.
    • It integrates logistics service providers, allowing farmers to sell produce directly from their farms using a farm-gate module.
    • Key features include real-time price discovery, Aadhaar-based e-KYC, warehouse-based trading, and direct online payments.
    • The platform enhances transparency, efficiency, and access to a nationwide market, reducing dependence on middlemen.
    • It aims to boost farmer incomes, minimize wastage, and create a unified digital agricultural ecosystem across India.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] What is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the ‘National Agriculture Market’ scheme?

    1. It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities.
    2. It provides the farmers access to nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2