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Type: Prelims Only

  • Scientists discover ‘Einstein Ring’

    Why in the News?

    The European Space Agency’s (ESA) Euclid Space Telescope has captured a rare Einstein Ring around a galaxy nearly 590 million light-years away from Earth.

    Scientists discover ‘Einstein Ring’

    What is an Einstein Ring?

    • An Einstein Ring is a circular ring of light caused by gravitational lensing, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity.
    • It occurs when a massive celestial object (like a galaxy) bends and magnifies light from a more distant background galaxy that lies directly behind it.
    • The recent discovery by ESA’s Euclid telescope identified an Einstein Ring around NGC 6505, located 590 million light-years away, acting as a lens for a distant galaxy 4.42 billion light-years away.
    • Features of an Einstein Ring:
      • Perfect circular shape (only if source, lens, and observer align precisely).
      • Example of strong gravitational lensing, distorting background light.
      • Extremely rare (found in less than 1% of galaxies).
      • Not visible to the naked eye, observed only with advanced space telescopes like Euclid or Hubble.

    Significance of the Discovery:

    • Reveals Dark Matter: Helps indirectly map dark matter, which makes up 85% of the universe.
    • Magnifies Hidden Galaxies: Makes faint, distant galaxies visible for study.
    • Measures Universe’s Expansion: Tracks how light stretches over time, refining cosmological models.
    • Confirms Einstein’s Theory: Proves light bends in curved space-time, supporting gravitational lensing theory.
    • Demonstrates Euclid’s Capabilities: Shows Euclid’s high-resolution potential, promising more discoveries.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following phenomena:

    1. Light is affected by gravity.
    2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
    3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.

    Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media?

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

     

  • PARAS-2 Spectrograph

    Why in the News?

    Scientists at PRL, Ahmedabad, discovered the exoplanet TOI-6038A b, a dense sub-Saturn-sized planet with a mass of 78.5 Earth masses and a radius of 6.41 Earth radii, using the PARAS-2 spectrograph at Mount Abu Observatory.

    About TOI-6038A b

    • TOI-6038A b is a dense sub-Saturn-sized planet with a mass of 78.5 Earth masses and a radius of 6.41 Earth radii, orbiting a bright, metal-rich F-type star every 5.83 days in a circular orbit.
    • This is the 2nd exoplanet discovery using the PARAS-2 spectrograph.
    • It is also the 5th exoplanet detection combining efforts of PARAS-1 and PARAS-2, showcasing India’s growing expertise in astronomical instrumentation.

    About PARAS-2 Spectrograph:

    • PARAS-2 (PRL Advanced Radial-velocity All-sky Search-2) is a state-of-the-art high-resolution spectrograph designed for exoplanet detection.
    • The development of PARAS-2 began in mid-2018 and was successfully installed at the telescope site in mid-2022.
    • It is the highest-resolution stabilized radial velocity (RV) spectrograph in Asia, operating at a precision level of 30 cm/s.
    • It is installed at PRL’s 2.5-meter telescope at the Mount Abu Observatory, benefiting from high-altitude, clear sky conditions.
    • Key Features of PARAS-2:
      • Operates in the 380-690 nm waveband, making it suitable for studying a wide range of celestial objects.
      • Resolution of ~107,000, the highest in Asia, enabling ultra-precise exoplanetary studies.
      • Ultra-stable temperature and pressure environment: Maintained at 24 ± 0.001 °C and 0.005 ± 0.0005 mbar, ensuring minimal instrumental drift.
      • Uses a Uranium Argon Hollow Cathode Lamp (UAr HCL) for calibration, achieving a velocity precision of better than 2 m/s.
      • Advanced optical fiber system for capturing stellar light and spectral calibration data simultaneously.
    • It uses the radial velocity method, which detects tiny wobbles in a star’s motion caused by the gravitational pull of an orbiting planet.
    • These wobbles cause shifts in the star’s light spectrum, allowing scientists to determine a planet’s presence, mass, and orbital period.
    • It can detect minute stellar movements, making it ideal for finding low-mass exoplanets like super-Earths.

    PYQ:

    [2015] The term ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is often seen in the news in the context of:

    (a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth
    (b) regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available
    (c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
    (d) search for meteorites containing precious metals

     

  • New Fishing Grounds discovered in Arabian Sea 

    Why in the News?

    A deep-sea fishing expedition conducted by the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) has uncovered several highly productive and previously unexplored fishing grounds in the Arabian Sea.

    Key Findings of the Deep-Sea Survey:

    • Fishing was conducted at depths between 300-540 meters using deep-sea trawlers.
    • The survey was funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
    • It mapped potential deep-sea fishing zones 100-120 nautical miles off India’s western coast, stretching from Kollam in Kerala to Goa.

    About Fishery Survey of India (FSI)

    • FSI was established in 1983, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
    • It conducts fisheries research, resource surveys, and sustainable fishing assessments.
    • It operates annual Fishery Resource Surveys to guide:
      • Traditional fishermen
      • Small and medium boat operators
      • Deep-sea longlining tuna fleet
    • History of FSI:
      • Originated from the “Deep Sea Fishing Station” project (1946).
      • Renamed “Exploratory Fisheries Project” (1974) and later “Fishery Survey of India” (1983).
      • In 2005, Marine Engineering Division was integrated into FSI.
      • In 2017, PM Narendra Modi launched the Deep-Sea Fishing Project to promote sustainable fishing practices.
    • Capabilities of FSI:
      • Operates 11 ocean survey vessels across six major Indian ports.
      • Employs 752 personnel, conducting deep-sea research and data collection.

    India’s Marine Fishing Industry

    • India ranks second in global fish production after China.
    • Contributes 9.58 million tonnes of total fish production, with:
      • 70% from the west coast
      • 30% from the east coast
    • Major fish-producing states: Andhra Pradesh (20%), West Bengal (15%), Gujarat (8%), Kerala (7%), Maharashtra (6%), Tamil Nadu (6%).
    • Exports and Global Trade:
      • India exports 1.05 million tonnes of marine fish, generating ₹334.4 billion ($5.57 billion) in revenue.
      • Major export markets: USA (26%), ASEAN nations (26%), EU (20%), Japan (9%), Middle East (6%), China (4%).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India.

    [2022] What is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?

     

  • Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB-8) Countries

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Modi met Estonian President Alar Karis at the AI Action Summit in Paris to discuss trade, technology, cybersecurity, and stronger ties between India, Estonia, and the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB-8).

     

    Key Highlights of the Recent Visit to Estonia:

    • First Bilateral Meeting: Held at the AI Action Summit in Paris, focusing on trade, digital ties, and cybersecurity.
    • Economic Cooperation: PM Modi invited Estonian businesses to invest in IT and cybersecurity in India.
    • Cybersecurity & Security Issues: Discussed digital governance, cybersecurity collaboration, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
    • Multilateral Ties: Emphasized India-Nordic-Baltic (NB-8) cooperation and India’s role in EU & UN diplomacy.
    • Cultural Exchange: PM Modi appreciated Estonia’s interest in yoga and strengthened people-to-people ties.

    Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB-8) Countries

    About Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB-8) Countries

    • The Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB-8) is a regional cooperation platform that includes:
      • Nordic Countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden
      • Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
    • NB cooperation dates to the 1990s, following the Baltic states’ independence from Soviet rule.
    • The Nordic Council began engaging with Baltic leaders in 1989, leading to official cooperation in 1991.
    • The NB-8 framework was formally established in 2000 as a regional diplomatic and economic initiative.
    • Structural Mandate:
      • Trade and Economic Growth: Strengthening business and investment partnerships.
      • Technology and Innovation: Collaborating on digital governance, AI, and cybersecurity.
      • Security and Defense:  Enhancing NATO and EU-led security cooperation.
      • Climate and Energy Policy: Advancing sustainability and energy security initiatives.
    • NB-8 Leadership and Coordination:
      • Each year, one NB-8 country assumes the role of coordinator, hosting diplomatic meetings and leading regional initiatives.
      • Denmark will chair NB-8 in 2025, following Sweden in 2024 and Latvia in 2023.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following countries:

    1. Denmark
    2. Japan
    3. Russian Federation
    4. United Kingdom
    5. United States of America

    Which of the above are the members of the ‘Arctic Council ‘?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2, 3 and 4

    (c) 1, 4 and 5

    (d) 1, 3 and 5

     

  • Reimei: World’s 1st Hybrid Quantum Supercomputer goes Online

    Why in the News?

    Japan has officially launched the world’s first hybrid quantum supercomputer, integrating a 20-qubit quantum processor, Reimei, into Fugaku, the world’s sixth-fastest supercomputer.

    About Reimei

    • Reimei is a 20-qubit trapped-ion quantum computer developed by Quantinuum and integrated into Fugaku, the world’s sixth-fastest supercomputer, at Riken, Japan.
    • It is the first fully operational hybrid quantum supercomputer, combining quantum and classical computing for advanced problem-solving.
    • Key Features:
      • Trapped-Ion Qubits: Unlike superconducting qubits, Reimei uses trapped-ion technology, offering higher stability, longer coherence times, and stronger qubit connectivity.
      • Hybrid Integration: Works alongside Fugaku to solve complex calculations faster than classical supercomputers.
      • Ion Shuttling: Enables physical movement of qubits, allowing for more complex quantum algorithms.
      • Error Correction: Uses logical qubits, reducing error rates 800 times lower than standard qubits.
    • Applications:
      • Physics & Chemistry Research: Used for molecular simulations, material science, and high-energy physics.
      • Quantum Cryptography & AI: Enhances cybersecurity and artificial intelligence models.
      • Optimization & Machine Learning:  Solves large-scale optimization problems.
    • Significance:
      • Bridges classical and quantum computing, serving as a transition to fully scalable quantum systems.
      • Paves the way for real-world quantum applications, accelerating scientific and technological advancements.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services
    (b) Quantum Computing
    (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
    (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

     

  • Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    Why in the News?

    The birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement during the 15th and 16th centuries, is celebrated every year on 12th February.

    Sant Guru Ravidas

    Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    • Guru Ravidas, also known as Bhagat Ravidas, was a prominent saint, poet, and social reformer of the Bhakti movement in 15th-century India.
    • Born in 1377 CE in Seer Govardhanpur, Uttar Pradesh, he dedicated his life to eradicating social discrimination and promoting equality.
    • Despite facing caste-based oppression, Guru Ravidas rose to prominence through his wisdom, humility, and devotion to God.
    • He was a contemporary of Sant Kabir and is believed to have met Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikh religion.
    • His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting his significant influence in Sikhism and Bhakti traditions.

    Key Contributions of Guru Ravidas

    • Equality & Social Justice: Opposed caste discrimination and untouchability.
    • Bhakti Movement: Advocated devotion over rituals for spiritual enlightenment.
    • Begumpura Concept: Envisioned a society free from oppression and sorrow.
    • Literary Contributions: Composed over 40 devotional hymns in Guru Granth Sahib.
    • Spiritual Influence: Guided Meera Bai in her devotion to Lord Krishna.
    • Universal Brotherhood: Taught that God is for all, beyond religion or caste.
    • Impact on Sikhism: Influenced Guru Nanak and Sikh teachings on equality and devotion.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:

    1. Dadu Dayal

    2. Guru Nanak

    3. Tyagaraja

    Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 2

     

  • Doctrine of Pith and Substance

    Why in the News?

    In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed the Doctrine of Pith and Substance, holding that the Centre cannot impose service tax on lottery distributors as the power to tax lotteries falls exclusively within the jurisdiction of state governments.

    Why did the Supreme Court dismiss the Centre’s Plea?

    • Lotteries Are Not a Service but Gambling: The court ruled that the relationship between states and lottery distributors is buyer-seller, not principal-agent, making service tax inapplicable.
    • Exclusive Taxing Power of States: The Constitution grants state legislatures the authority to tax betting and gambling, including lotteries.
      • Parliament cannot override this through residuary powers (Entry 97 – List I) as taxation on lotteries is already covered under Entry 62 – List II.
    • Doctrine of Pith and Substance Applied: The court ruled that the dominant nature of lotteries is gambling, even if marketing and promotion involve service elements.
      • Since the primary focus remains within the State List, the Centre cannot impose service tax on it.
    • Sikkim High Court Ruling Upheld: The SC upheld the 2012 Sikkim HC decision, which declared Section 65(105) of the Finance Act, 1994 (as amended in 2010) unconstitutional, as it attempted to impose service tax on lottery-related activities.

    What is Doctrine of Pith and Substance?

    • The Doctrine of Pith and Substance helps determine whether a law’s dominant purpose falls within the legislative competence of the enacting government.
    • Key Features:
      • Examines the true nature of a law, rather than incidental overlaps.
      • Resolves Centre-State conflicts over legislative powers.
      • Allows minor encroachments if the primary subject falls within the legislature’s authority.
    • Major Supreme Court Cases Applying the Doctrine:
      • State of Bombay v. FN Balsara (1951): Upheld a state alcohol prohibition law, despite minor overlaps with Union subjects.
      • Prafulla Kumar Mukherjee v. Bank of Commerce (1947):  Allowed incidental encroachment as long as the law’s primary focus was within its jurisdiction.
    • Application in Lottery Taxation Case:
      • The Centre’s argument for taxing lotteries under Entry 97 – List I was rejected.
      • The dominant purpose of lottery transactions is gambling, which states exclusively regulate and tax.

    PYQ:

    [2016] The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the:

    (a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    (b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership

    (c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two thirds of its members present and voting

     

  • [pib] Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) Elimination 

    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

     

  • [pib] 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.

  • India introduces new HS code for GI-recognised Rice Varieties

    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