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Type: Prelims Only

  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    World Heritage City of Jaipur

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Jaipur, World Heritage Sites in India

    Why in the News?

    The Walled City of Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019, is set for heritage conservation and development with a budget of ₹100 crore.

    About the World Heritage City of Jaipur:

    • Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was designed as a commercial capital with a grid layout that reflects Vedic architectural principles. 
    • Unlike many other Indian cities built in hilly terrains, Jaipur was established on a plain, allowing for a systematic urban design characterized by wide streets and public squares known as chaupars.

    Architectural Significance

    • Jaipur’s urban planning is notable for its geometric structure, which integrates traditional Hindu concepts with modern Western influences.
    • The city is divided into nine blocks, with two reserved for state buildings and the remaining for public use. Known for its distinctive pink-colored buildings, which give it the nickname “Pink City.”
    • The architecture features uniform facades along the main streets. Key monuments include:
      • Hawa Mahal: A palace known for its intricate façade and numerous windows.
      • City Palace: A royal residence that blends Mughal and Rajput architecture.
      • Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory built by Jai Singh II.
      • Govind Dev Temple: A significant religious site reflecting the city’s cultural heritage.

    Jaipur’s (Pink City) Criteria for UNESCO Recognition

    • Criterion (ii): Exhibiting an important interchange of human values in architecture and urban planning.
    • Criterion (iv): Representing a significant example of a planned city that reflects the cultural traditions of its time.
    • Criterion (vi): Being directly associated with events or living traditions of universal significance, particularly in the context of its festivals and cultural practices.

     

    Other Important Places Contributing to World Heritage Status

    Amber Fort (Amer Fort)
    • A majestic fort known for its artistic Hindu and Mughal architectural style, located on a hill overlooking Maota Lake.
    • Famous for its intricate carvings, mirror work, and expansive courtyards.
    City Palace
    • A complex of palaces, courtyards, and museums in the heart of Jaipur, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
    • Combines Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, showcasing royal artifacts, costumes, and weapons.
    Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
    • A five-story palace with 953 small windows (jharokhas), designed to allow royal women to observe street activities while remaining unseen.
    • An iconic example of Rajput architecture with intricate latticework and unique design.
    Jantar Mantar
    • An astronomical observatory with 19 large instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial.
    • A separate UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting the scientific achievements of the 18th century.
    Nahargarh Fort
    • Built in 1734, located on the Aravalli Hills, offering panoramic views of Jaipur city.
    • Served as a retreat and defensive structure for the royal family, showcasing the military architecture of the period.

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Study confirms the existence of a Dockyard at Lothal

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Lothal and other IVC Sites

    Why in the News?

    A recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology-Gandhinagar (IITGn) has presented new evidence supporting the presence of a dockyard (222 x 37 metres) at Lothal, which was earlier debated.

    Evidence of Lothal’s Dockyard

    • The discovery of Lothal, located in the Bhal region of Gujarat during the 1950s, initiated debates among archaeologists about the existence of a dockyard.
    • The IITGn study reveals that the Sabarmati River once flowed close to Lothal during the Harappan period, contrasting its current course, which is 20 km away.
    • The study suggests a trade route linking Ahmedabad, through Lothal, Nal Sarovar, and the Little Rann, to Dholavira, another prominent Harappan site.
    • Satellite imagery and multi-sensor data analysis have uncovered the ancient channels of the Sabarmati River, confirming Lothal’s strategic location on a significant riverine route.
    • The study also suggests that traders might have arrived in Gujarat via the Gulf of Khambhat, collected materials from Ratanpura, and transported them to Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq).

    About Lothal:

    Details
    Location Bhal region, Gujarat, India
    Historical Significance Built around 2200 BC; major trade centre for beads, gems, and ornaments
    Name Meaning “Lothal” means “the mound of the dead” in Gujarati (Similar to Mohenjodaro)
    Discovery Discovered by S.R. Rao; excavated from 1955 to 1960
    Port City Evidence Earliest known dock; connected to the ancient Sabarmati River
    Key Features Tidal dockyard, marine microfossils, and a basin for sailing boats
    Heritage Status Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014; only port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelling water into connected reservoirs?

    (a) Dholavira

    (b) Kalibangan

    (c) Rakhigarhi

    (d) Ropar

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  • Internal Security Trends and Incidents

    Anti-Naxal Operation in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Anti-Naxal Operations in India

    Why in the News?

    • In a significant anti-Naxal operation, nine Maoists were killed by security forces in the forests along the border of Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada.
      • This operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate Naxalite influence in the region.

    Anti-Naxal Operation in Dantewada

    • Dantewada, a district in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India, is known as a hotbed of Naxal (Maoist) insurgency. 
    • The region has seen numerous anti-Naxal operations over the years due to its dense forests, rugged terrain, and the presence of significant Naxalite (Maoist) cadres.

    Important security operations against Naxalism:

    Details
    Operation Greyhounds 1989 – Ongoing: A specialized anti-Naxal force created to combat Naxal insurgency in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
    Operation Green Hunt 2009 – Ongoing: To flush out Naxalite insurgents in the “Red Corridor ” from their strongholds.
    Operation Thunderstorm 2010: To target Naxal cadres in the dense forest regions of Lalgarh, West Bengal.
    Operation Octopus 2014: To clear Maoist influence from the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh.
    Operation All Out 2015 – Ongoing: To launch coordinated offensive operations against Naxalites in Jharkhand and Bihar.
    Operation Samadhan 2017 – Ongoing: A comprehensive strategy to combat LWE by addressing both security and developmental issues.
    Operation Prahar 2017 – Ongoing: To eliminate top Maoist leaders and dismantle support networks in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.
    Operation Monsoon 2018: To target Maoist groups during the monsoon season when their activities are restricted.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multi-layered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.

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

    [pib] SCOMET List

    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: SCOMET List

    Why in the News?

    The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has released the updated SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) list for the year 2024.

    What is the SCOMET List?

    Details
    Purpose To regulate the export of dual-use items that can be used for both civilian and military applications, particularly those that could contribute to the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and their delivery systems.
    Regulatory Authority Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
    Notification Notified by DGFT under Appendix 3 to Schedule 2 of the ITC (HS) Classification of Export and Import Items.
    Legal Framework Governed by Chapter IVA of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, as amended in 2010.

    This chapter provides the legal basis for export control of dual-use items and outlines penalties for non-compliance.
    Policy and Procedures Outlined in Chapter 10 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023.

    These documents provide the detailed procedure for licensing, application, and compliance for exporting SCOMET items.
    Categories The SCOMET List includes multiple categories:
    1. Category 0: Nuclear materials and nuclear-related dual-use items.
    2. Category 1: Toxic chemical agents and precursors.
    3. Category 2: Materials and materials processing equipment.
    4. Category 3: Electronics.
    5. Category 4: Computers.
    6. Category 5: Telecommunications and information security.
    7. Category 6: Sensors and lasers.
    8. Category 7: Navigation and avionics.
    9. Category 8: Marine.
    10. Category 9: Aerospace and propulsion.
    New Licensing Authority for Category 6 Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence is the new licensing authority for the export of items under Category 6 (Sensors and Lasers).
    Export Licensing Exporters must obtain a specific license from DGFT (or DDP for Category 6) to export SCOMET items.

    The licensing process includes a comprehensive review to ensure that exports do not contribute to the proliferation of WMDs or unauthorized military use.

     

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  • Judicial Reforms

    Use of Regional Languages in High Courts remains limited

    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 348(1)(a), Article 348 (2)

    Why in the News?

    A growing movement in India is advocating for use of regional languages in High Court proceedings to make justice more accessible to the common citizen.

    Current Scenario: Regional Languages in High Courts

    • Out of India’s 25 High Courts, only 4 — Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar — are authorized to use Hindi in their proceedings and legal documents.
      • Bihar HC was the last High Court to receive authorization to use Hindi in 1972.
    • A litigant possesses the fundamental right to comprehend and engage in courtroom proceedings, under Article 19 and Article 21.
      • She/ He is entitled to present their case in a language they understand before the magistrate.
    • Additionally, the “Right to Justice” is explicitly recognized under Article 21 of the Constitution.
    • Despite these provisions, the use of regional languages in High Courts remains limited.

    Constitutional Provisions for Regional Languages in Judiciary:

    Provision Details
    Article 348(1) (a) Language of Proceedings
    • English is the official language for proceedings in the Supreme Court, High Courts, and specified tribunals.
    • All records and orders must be in English.
    Purpose Ensures uniformity and consistency in legal proceedings and documentation at the highest judicial levels.
    Scope Applies to the Supreme Court, High Courts, and all authorities mentioned in Article 323A or Article 323B.
    Article 348(2) Use of Other Languages
    • The President may authorize the use of Hindi or any other regional language in addition to English.
    • Authorization is subject to conditions specified by the President.
    Purpose Allows for regional languages to be used in judicial proceedings, making the system more accessible to non-English speakers.
    Scope Can be applied in the Supreme Court, High Courts, and other authorities as mentioned in Article 323A or Article 323B.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following in Indian polity is an essential feature that indicates that it is federal in character?

    (a) The Independence of the judiciary is safeguarded.

    (b) The Union Legislature has elected representatives from constituent units.

    (c) The Union Cabinet can have elected representatives from regional parties.

    (d) The Fundamental Rights are enforceable by Courts of Law.

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  • J&K – The issues around the state

    Vision J&K @2047

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Mains level: Vision JK @2047

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions has presented the Vision J&K @2047 describing it as an integral part of Vision India @2047.

    What is J&K @2047?

    • Vision J&K @2047 is a long-term strategic plan for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
    • It seeks to develop the region into a model of sustainable development, economic growth, and social harmony by the year 2047, coinciding with India’s 100th year of independence.

    Key features of Vision J&K @2047:

    • Vision J&K @2047 focuses on restoring democratic governance through Assembly elections and establishing Zilla Parishads.
    • It aims to enhance infrastructure, create job opportunities, and drive economic development in the region.
    • Significant improvements in education and healthcare are planned, along with empowerment initiatives for women and minorities.
    • Governance reforms aim to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
    • Promotion of local industries and entrepreneurship is a key component to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

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  • Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

    Rule 170 of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 2018

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Rule 170 of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 2018

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the AYUSH ministry’s notification, which advised state licensing authorities not to take action under Rule 170 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act in the context of the ongoing case against Patanjali Ayurved.

    Rule 170 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 2018:

    Details
    What is it? Rule 170 was introduced in 2018 to regulate the manufacture, storage, and sale of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicines, focusing on controlling misleading advertisements in the AYUSH sector.
    Requirements • AYUSH drug manufacturers must obtain approval and a unique identification number from state licensing authorities before advertising their products.
    • Required documentation includes textual references, rationale, indications for use, and evidence of safety, effectiveness, and quality.
    Key Provisions
    • Prohibits advertisement of AYUSH products without prior state authority approval.
    • Advertisements may be rejected if they:
      – Lack of contact details of the manufacturer.
      – Contain obscene or vulgar content.
      – Promote products for enhancing sexual organs.
      – Feature endorsements from celebrities or government officials.
      – Refer to government organizations.
      – Convey false impressions or make misleading or exaggerated claims.
    Rationale Behind   • Introduced following a parliamentary standing committee’s concerns about misleading claims in the AYUSH sector.
    • Aims to ensure proactive measures by the AYUSH ministry against such advertisements.
    Challenges   • AYUSH drug manufacturers are required to obtain licenses from drug controllers similar to allopathic medicines.
    • Unlike allopathic drugs, AYUSH drugs do not need to undergo Phase I, II, or III trials for approval.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

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  • Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

    [pib] India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

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

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    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: India Semiconductor Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal by Kaynes Semicon Pvt Ltd to establish a semiconductor unit in Sanand, Gujarat. This is the 5th semiconductor unit to be approved under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). 

    About India’s Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

    Details
    Launch Year 2021
    Financial Outlay ₹76,000 crore
    Backing by  Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
    Objective Develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in India.
    Primary Goal Provide financial support to companies investing in semiconductor and display manufacturing and design ecosystem.
    Leadership Envisioned to be led by global experts in the Semiconductor and Display industry.
    Components
    • Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs: Fiscal support to set up semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities.
    • Scheme for Display Fabs: Fiscal support for setting up TFT LCD/AMOLED display fabrication facilities.
    • Scheme for Compound Semiconductors / Silicon Photonics / Sensors Fab and ATMP/OSAT: 30% fiscal support for setting up compound semiconductors, silicon photonics, sensors fabs, and ATMP/OSAT facilities.
    • Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme: Financial incentives and design infrastructure support for semiconductor design for ICs, chipsets, SoCs, systems & IP cores.
    Vision To develop India into a global hub for semiconductor and display manufacturing and design.

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  • Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

    [pib] DoT notifies Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Digital Bharat Nidhi Rules, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has published the first set of rules under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 (44 of 2023), titled ‘Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024.’

    About Telecommunications (Administration of Digital Bharat Nidhi) Rules, 2024:

    Description
    Legislation Introduced under the Telecommunications Act, 2023
    Fund Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN): Replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885
    Role of Administrator Responsible for overseeing the implementation and administration of DBN
    Key Focus Areas • Enhancing telecommunication services in underserved and remote areas
    • Promoting access to mobile and broadband services
    • Improving telecom security
    • Supporting next-generation telecom technologies
    Target Beneficiaries • Marginalized groups (e.g., women, persons with disabilities, economically weaker sections)
    • Remote and underserved regions
    Project Criteria • Provision of telecom services and equipment
    • Enhancing telecom security
    • Improving access and affordability
    • Promoting innovation, R&D, and indigenous technology
    • Supporting start-ups
    • Encouraging sustainable and green technologies
    Funding Conditions Entities receiving DBN funding must provide telecom services on an open and non-discriminatory basis
    Vision Alignment Aligned with Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047
    Sustainability Focus Emphasizes the promotion of green technologies in telecommunications

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] In India, which of the following review the Independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.?

    1. Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament
    2. Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees
    3. Finance Commission
    4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission
    5. NITI Aayog

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 1, 3 and 4

    (c) 3, 4 and 5

    (d) 2 and 5

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

    What is Digital Agriculture Mission?

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: E-Technology In The Aid Of Farmers

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Digital Agriculture Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the “Digital Agriculture Mission” with a budget of ₹2,817 Crore, including ₹1,940 Crore as the central share.

    About Digital Agriculture Mission

    Category Details
    Historical Context Originally planned for the financial year 2021-22 but delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Announced in the Union Budgets of 2023-24 and 2024-25.
    Funding Breakdown Total outlay: Rs 2,817 crore

    • Rs 1,940 crore from the Centre
    • Remaining amount from states and Union Territories (UTs)
    Objective To create Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the agriculture sector, similar to other e-governance initiatives like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, eSign, UPI, and electronic health records.
    Major Components of DPI 1. AgriStack:
    – A comprehensive digital platform integrating various agricultural services.
    – Facilitates access to information, services, and benefits related to farming and agricultural practices.
    – Centralizes agricultural data to improve accessibility and efficiency.
    2. Krishi Decision Support System (DSS):
    – Provides data-driven insights and recommendations for farmers.
    – Assists in decision-making related to crop management, pest control, and resource optimization based on real-time data.
    – Utilizes advanced analytics to enhance productivity and mitigate risks.
    3. Soil Profile Maps:
    – Detailed digital maps on a 1:10,000 scale covering approximately 142 million hectares.
    – Provides comprehensive information about soil characteristics and health.
    – Supports precision agriculture by offering targeted soil data for optimal crop planning.
    Additional Component Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES):
    – A tech-based system to provide accurate estimates of agricultural production.
    – Aims to offer reliable data for policy decisions, agricultural planning, and resource allocation.
    Impact on Farmers The mission will enable farmers to access a range of digital services, improve decision-making through data analysis, enhance productivity with detailed soil information, and provide accurate crop estimations to better manage agricultural practices.
    Timeline Rolled out across the country over the next two years (until 2025-26).

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of:

    (a) Digital security infrastructure

    (b) Food security infrastructure

    (c) Health care and education infrastructure

    (d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

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