💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Type: Prelims Only

  • Cyclone Fengal

    Why in the News?

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

    Origin of the Name ‘Fengal’

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

    Cyclone Naming Process:

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

     

    PYQ:

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

    (a) Sea Surface temperature are low

    (b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

    (c) Coriolis force is too weak

    (d) Absence of land in those regions

  • 5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    Why in the News?

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

    5 Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly

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

     

    PYQ:

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

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

  • National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

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

    About National Milk Day:

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

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

  • In news: Pennaiyar River

    In news: Pennaiyar River

    Why in the News?

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

    About Pennaiyar River

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

     

    PYQ:

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

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

    1. Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
    2. Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
    3. A is true but R is false
    4. A is false but R is true

  • NGT issues notice to Centre on expansion of Glacial Lakes

    Why in the News?

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

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

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

    About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

    About Establishment:

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

    Composition:

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

    Benches:

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

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

    Governing Principles:

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

    Review and Challenge:

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

     

    PYQ:

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

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.

    About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):

    About • Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
    • Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
    • Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
    Aims and Objectives • Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
    • Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
    • Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
    • Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
    • Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture.
    Implementation and Structural Mandate • Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
    • Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
    • Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
    • 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015.
    Significance • Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
    • Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
    • Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
    • Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

    Why in the News?

    The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

    About MACE Telescope:

    Details
    Details and Working • World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
    • It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
    • Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
    • Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base.
    Aims and Objectives of MACE • Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
    • Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
    • Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes.
    How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? • Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
    • Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
    • DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why in the News?

    • On November 25, the Portuguese conquered Goa, establishing first territorial possession in India by any colonists.
      • This marked the beginning of Portugal’s 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended only in 1961, making them the last colonial power to leave India.

    On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why the Portuguese came to Goa?

    • Vasco da Gama’s voyage in 1498 revealed the thriving trade networks in the Indian Ocean.
    • The Portuguese aimed to capitalize on the wealth from the Indian Ocean trade routes.
    • Rivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish a military presence in the region.
      • In 1505, the Portuguese State of India was formally established, six years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival.
    • Francisco de Almeida, the first Viceroy, set up the first base in Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi).
      • The Portuguese controlled the Island of Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.

    How Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa?

    • Albuquerque (Viceroy, 1509-1515) understood that Goa was essential for controlling the maritime trade routes in the East.
    • The decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure, either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Albuquerque’s first attack on Goa (February-March 1510) was largely successful due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule among Goa’s Hindu population.
      • Many locals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan’s rule.
    • After being stranded on the Mandovi River during the monsoon season, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
    • In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque launched a successful attack and retook Goa.

    Who Was Timmayya?

    • Timmayya, a key figure in the conquest of Goa, is described in various sources as a pirate from Malabar.
      • However, other historians argue that he was of noble birth and held a prestigious position in the Vijayanagara Empire.
      • According to historians, Timmayya was actually a high-ranking admiral in the Vijayanagara navy.
    • Though the Portuguese regarded him as a corsair or pirate, he was in fact executing orders from the Vijayanagara Empire, attacking Portuguese and rival merchant ships on his empire’s behalf.
    • While some historians argue that Timmayya’s counsel was pivotal in the timing of the attack on Goa, others suggest that Albuquerque may have already planned the assault, with Timmayya’s advice simply solidifying the decision.

    Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?

    • The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire had long eyed Goa after it was lost to the Sultan of Bijapur.
    • Timmayya’s personal motivations were likely shaped by the empire’s strategic interest in regaining control of the region, as Goa was seen as a valuable territory in both military and economic terms.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:​

    1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.

    2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.​

    3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?​

    (a) 1 only ​

    (b) 1 and 2 only ​

    (c) 3 only​

    (d) 2 and 3 only

  • Guru Tegh Bahadur

    Guru Tegh Bahadur

    Why in the News?

    November 24 is commemorated as the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th guru of the Sikhs, who was executed on the orders of Aurangzeb in 1675.

    Guru Tegh Bahadur: Everything you need to know

    Details
    Who was Guru Tegh Bahadur?
    • Born on April 1, 1621 in Amritsar, Punjab to Guru Hargobind (6th Sikh Guru), Mata Nanaki
      • Death: November 11, 1675, executed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
    • Became 9th Guru (1665 to 1675)
    • Promoted the idea of Nirbhau (fearless) and Nirvair (without enmity) and emphasized the oneness of God.
    • Referred to as ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ (Shield of India).
    What was his historical contribution?
    • Guru stood up for the Hindu Kashmiri Pandits, defending their right to practice their religion against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s oppressive policies.
    • Refused to convert to Islam despite facing torture and persecution, ultimately leading to his execution.
    • Advocated for the principle of one God, rejecting idol worship and preaching about the unity of all religions.
    • Emphasized meditation, self-discipline, moral living, and serving others. He urged Sikhs to remain spiritually committed while defending the rights of the innocent.
    • His hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, with 115 hymns attributed to him.
    • Many Gurdwaras are dedicated to him, including Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, built on the site where he was executed.
    • Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1666.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] 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

  • Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

    Why in the News?

    Delhi has been experiencing severe air pollution for 10 days, leading the Supreme Court to criticize the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its poor response.

    About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):

    Details
    About
      • A statutory body for air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
    • Established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021, replacing the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) (formed in 1998). 
    • It came into effect in 2020 through an ordinance.

    Structure:

    • Chairperson: Senior government official (Secretary or Chief Secretary)
    • 5 ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh; 3 full-time technical members 
    • 3 members from NGOs
    • Technical support from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog
    Functions
    • Monitor and coordinate air quality management efforts in NCR and adjoining areas
    • Research sources of air pollution and propose mitigation strategies
    • Implement air quality policies with state agencies
    • Raise public awareness and engage communities in air quality management
    Powers   Jurisdiction: Over air quality issues in NCR, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. 

    Powers:

    • Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals
    • Restrict activities impacting air quality
    • Investigate and enforce environmental pollution measures
    • Take strict actions against non-compliance under the CAQM Act, 2021
    • Initiate complaints and enforce regulations

     

    PYQ:

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

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2