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Type: Prelims Only

  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    Sundhnuksgigar Volcano erupts in Iceland

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Frequent Volcanic eruptions this year, Sundhnuksgigar and other Volcanoes Why in the News?

    Why in the News?

    Southwest Iceland witnessed the eruption of the Sundhnuksgigar volcano, triggering evacuations in the nearby areas.

    About Sundhnuksgigar Volcano 

    • Sundhnuksgigar is a row of craters just outside the town of Grindavik on the Reykjanes peninsula
    • It is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a divergent boundary where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are moving apart.

    What is a Volcano?

    • A volcano is a fissure or vent in the Earth’s crust through which gases, molten rock materials (lava), ash, steam, sulphur dioxide etc., are expelled during an eruption.
    • These openings occur where the rock layers in the Earth’s crust are relatively weak.
    • Volcanic activity is categorized as an endogenic process, originating from within the Earth.
    • Depending on the explosivity of the volcano, various extrusive and intrusive landforms can be formed.

    Different types of volcanoes can be classified based on the frequency of eruption and the nature of the eruption:

    1.   Frequency of eruption:

    • Active volcanoes: Frequent eruptions in Pacific Ring of Fire: New Zealand, Southeast Asia, Japan, western Americas. Linked to plate tectonics, like Kilauea and Santa Maria. High seismicity, volcanic activity.
    • Dormant Volcanoes: These are not currently erupting but have the potential to erupt again in the future. An example is Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the highest mountain in Africa.
    • Extinct or inactive volcanoes: These have not erupted in the distant geological past. Dhinodhar Hill in Gujarat is an example.

    2.   Nature of Eruption:

    • Shield Volcanoes: Largest and least explosive volcanoes, formed from basalt lava. Often low in explosivity, except when water interacts. Hawaiian volcanoes exemplify this..
    • Composite Volcanoes: Volcanoes with cooler, thicker lava, built up through explosive eruptions. Layer ash, pyroclastic material, and lava flow. Examples: Mayon, Fuji, Rainier.
    • Calderas: The most explosive volcanoes, prone to collapsing inward during eruptions rather than building upwards. The resulting depressions are called calderas.
    • Flood Basalt Provinces: These volcanoes erupt highly fluid lava that travels long distances, covering vast areas with thick basalt flows.

    Reasons for Iceland’s Volcanism

    • Tectonic Activity: Iceland is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American plates diverge. This creates volcanic rift zones where magma rises to the surface, leading to eruptions.
    • Hotspots: Additionally, Iceland is positioned over a hotspot, contributing to heightened volcanic activity. Hotspots are areas where magma from the mantle rises towards the surface, fueling eruptions.
    • Subglacial Volcanism: Iceland’s volcanic activity is not limited to the surface; some eruptions occur beneath glaciers, leading to explosive interactions between lava and ice. These subglacial eruptions can produce powerful steam explosions, ash clouds, and catastrophic floods known as jokulhlaup.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on the regional environment.

    [2013] Consider the following:

    1. Electromagnetic radiation
    2. Geothermal energy
    3. Gravitational force
    4. Plate movements
    5. Rotation of the earth
    6. Revolution of the earth

    Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth?

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only

    (c) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Galaxy JADES-GS-z14-0: Insights from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: JADES-GS-z14-0 Galaxy, JWST

    Why in the News? 

    The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), launched by NASA, has unveiled a groundbreaking find It has captured imagery of the universe’s earliest-known galaxy, revealing unexpected brightness and size given its formation during the universe’s infancy.

    James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

    • JWST is a joint venture between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) launched in December 2021.
    • It is an orbiting infrared observatory that will complement and extend the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, with longer wavelength coverage and greatly improved sensitivity.
    • Webb was formerly known as the “Next Generation Space Telescope” (NGST) and it was renamed in 2002 after a former NASA administrator, James Webb.
    • It will be a large infrared telescope with an approximately 6.5-meter primary mirror.
    • JWST is positioned at the Earth-Sun L2 Lagrange point, 5 million km away.
    • It consists of a mirror, spanning 6.5 meters in diameter compared to Hubble’s 2.4 meters, as well as its specialized instruments optimized for infrared observations.

    Key Objectives:

    • JWST observes deeper into the universe than Hubble.
    • Observes celestial objects from earlier epochs.
    • Enables the detection of light from the universe’s earliest stars, dating back over 13.5 billion years.

    About JADES-GS-z14-0 Galaxy 

    • Named JADES-GS-z14-0, this galaxy was formed approximately 290 million years after the Big Bang.
    • Spanning about 1,700 light-years across, it consists of a mass equivalent to 500 million stars akin to our Sun.
    • Despite its ancient age, the galaxy is actively generating stars at a rapid pace, producing around 20 new stars annually.

    Scientific Insights:

    • Historical Context: Previously, the earliest-known galaxy was dated to approximately 320 million years post-Big Bang, indicating the significance of this new discovery.
    • Luminosity Theories: While hypotheses suggest various explanations for the galaxy’s luminosity, including supermassive black holes or unusually bright stars, further research is required to validate these theories.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidence for the continued expansion of the universe?

    1. Detection of microwaves in space
    2. Observation of redshift phenomenon in space
    3. Movement of asteroids in space
    4. Occurrence of supernova explosions in space

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) None of the above can be cited as evidence

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  • Tribes in News

    Andhra’s Koya tribe faces brewing conflict over sacred Mahua flower

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Koya Tribe

    Mains level: Legal Challenges and Rights

    Why in the news?

    The Koya tribe in Andhra Pradesh is facing a cultural crisis due to stricter liquor regulations enforced by the Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB).

    About Koya tribe 

    • Koya are one of the few multi-racial and multi-lingual tribal communities in India.
    • They live in the forests, plains, and valleys on both sides of the Godavari River which lies in Andhra Pradesh. Many also live in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Orissa.
    • They believe their main deity still resides in a cave in the Bastar region.

    Cultural Crisis (Disruption of Traditions):

    • Mahua liquor is brewed from the flowers of the Mahua tree which is integral to Koya cultural and religious ceremonies including naming ceremonies, weddings, and death anniversaries.
    • Police raids and seizures of Mahua liquor disrupt these traditions causing cultural shocks within the community. For example, recently the naming ceremony of Madakam Janakamma’s child was held without Mahua liquor due to SEB raids.

    Tribal Rights (Legal Challenges and Rights):

    • The Andhra Pradesh Prohibition Act, 1995, does not exempt the Koya tribe from brewing and storing Mahua liquor, despite its cultural significance.
    • The Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996 empowers the gram sabha to protect tribal traditions and culture but its implementation is questionable as SEB raids continue unabated.
    • Koya villagers are often coerced into paying bribes to avoid legal charges, highlighting the tension between law enforcement and tribal rights.

    Impact on Collection(Economic Consequences):

    • Many Koya households have ceased Mahua flower collection due to fear of police raids, significantly affecting their primary source of income.
    • Destruction of freshly collected flowers during raids further disincentivizes collection, reducing the supply of Mahua flowers to weekly markets (shandies) where they are exchanged for essential goods.

    Guardians of Culture (Preservation of Heritage):

    • The Koya tribe, especially those not displaced by the Polavaram irrigation project, are seen as custodians of their culture. However, displacement and integration with non-tribal communities threaten their cultural identity.
    • Local leaders and activists argue for the need to empower Koya women with training in producing value-added products from Mahua flowers, rather than undermining their traditional practices and economic activities.

    Legal and Policy Measures

    • Amend the Andhra Pradesh Prohibition Act, 1995: Introduce exemptions or special provisions that recognize and protect the traditional brewing and usage of Mahua liquor for cultural and religious purposes by the Koya tribe.
    • Strengthen Implementation of PESA Act: Ensure that the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996, is fully implemented. Empower Gram Sabhas to have a greater say in protecting tribal traditions, including the brewing of Mahua liquor.

    Conclusion: The enforcement actions by the SEB, while aimed at regulating liquor, pose a significant threat to the Koya tribe’s cultural heritage and economic well-being. Balancing legal regulations with respect for tribal traditions and rights is crucial to preserving the Koya way of life.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the two major legal initiatives by state since Independence, addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (ST) ? (UPSC IAS/2017)

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz: Protecting Kerala’s Frog Species

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz, Species mentioned

    Why in the News?

    The Centre for Citizen Science and Biodiversity Informatics, Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), has organised the event “Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz 2024”.

    About Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz, 2024:

    •  This program aims to document Kerala’s frog species during the monsoon season.
    • Objective: Cultivate scientific curiosity among the public and raise awareness about frog conservation through social media platforms, such as posters and articles.
      • Bioblitz Definition: It’s an intensive survey conducted over time to identify and document as many species as possible within a designated area, a popular participatory survey method globally.

    Project Details:

    • Participation: People of all ages can contribute by uploading frog photographs and sounds via the iNaturalist app.
    • Data Utilization: Scientific observations collected during the bioblits will contribute to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), facilitating biodiversity awareness, habitat conservation, and climate change research.

    Need for such an event

    • Monsoon heralds a festive season for frogs, marking their peak activity and breeding period.
    • However, the survival of frogs, crucial indicators of ecosystem health, faces threats from climate change, habitat loss, and water pollution.
    • As a result, 41% of the world’s frog species are on the IUCN Red List of endangered species, including those in Kerala.

    Results of 2023:

    • In 2023, KFRI conducted the Monsoon Croaks project, witnessing enthusiastic participation from citizens across Kerala.
    • Highlights: Around 200 citizen scientists uploaded 1,223 observations, identifying approximately 80 amphibian species, including those listed on the IUCN Red List.
    • Notable Species:  The top most observed species is the Wayanad Bush Frog (Pseudophilautus wynaadensis).
      • Following closely is the Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus).
      • Other important amphibian species recorded in the bioblitz include:
      • Critically Endangered Resplendent Shrub frog (Raorchestes resplendens).
      • Endangered Malabar Torrent Toad (Blaira ornata).
      • Small Tree Frog (Rhacophorus lateralis).
      • Vulnerable Anaimalai Flying Frog (Rhacophorus pseudomalabaricus).
      • Near Threatened Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis).

    Back2Basics: Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

    Details
    Purpose To provide free and open access to biodiversity data for research, conservation, and sustainable development
    Establishment Established in 2001
    Headquarters Copenhagen, Denmark
    Members Over 40 countries and economies, including government agencies, museums, research institutions, and NGOs
    Mission Facilitate the digitisation and mobilization of biodiversity data, making it accessible and usable for scientific research and policy-making
    Core Functions
    • Promote and facilitate collaboration and data sharing among members
    • Develop standards and tools for data mobilisation, quality, and interoperability
    • Provide technical infrastructure for publishing, indexing, and accessing biodiversity data
    Data Availability GBIF provides access to over 2 billion occurrence records of species worldwide, contributed by thousands of data publishers
    Legal Framework GBIF operates under an intergovernmental treaty, the GBIF Agreement, and is governed by its members through an annual Governing Board
    Funding Funding for GBIF comes from member countries and economies, as well as international organizations and private sector partners
    Contributions to Science and Policy
    • Contributes to global assessments such as the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
    • Supports the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and other international initiatives related to biodiversity conservation

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘Birdlife International’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.
    2. The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.
    3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    299th Birth Anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar (1725 –1795)

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Ahilyabai Holkar and her contemporaries

    Why in the News?

    The 299th birth anniversary of legendary ruler Ahilyabai Holkar was celebrated on 30th May.

    About Ahilyabai Holkar

    Details
    Birth May 31, 1725; Chaundi village, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India
    Family Daughter of Mankoji Shinde, a respected Dhangar family member
    Education Despite societal norms, her father taught her to read and write
    Marriage Married Khande Rao Holkar, son of Malhar Rao Holkar, in 1733
    Rise to Prominence Impressed by her piety and character, Khande Rao married Ahilyabai on the Peshwa’s advice
    Leadership Took control of Malwa after her husband’s death in 1754
    Reign Ruled Malwa from 1767 to 1795
    Capital Maheshwar became the capital of Malwa under her rule
    Administrative Prowess Known for her administrative acumen
    Military Strategies Personally led armies into battle and defended Malwa against intruders
    Cultural Contributions Established Maheshwar as the seat of the Holkar Dynasty
    Temple Restorations Led the reconstruction of Kashi Vishwanath Temple and built Somnath Temple
    Economic Development Promoted the production of Maheshwari Sarees and fostered trade and commerce
    Social Inclusion Advocated for marginalised communities and mainstreamed their inclusion
    Legacy Revered as “The Philosopher Queen” by historians like John Keay

     

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  • RBI Notifications

    Surge in Indian Companies’ External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs)

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs)

    Why in the News?

    Indian companies “external commercial borrowings” nearly doubled in FY24, reaching $49.2 billion, according to RBI data.

    Key Statistics:

    • Disbursements: ECB disbursements stood at $38.4 billion in FY24, a significant increase from $23.8 billion in FY23, underscoring the growing reliance on overseas markets for funding.
    • Domestic Pressure: High interest rates in the domestic system have led to increased pressure, prompting companies to explore ECBs as a viable funding alternative.

    External Commercial Borrowing (ECBs) in India:

    Details
    Definition Loans provided by non-resident lenders in foreign currency to Indian borrowers.
    Usage Widely used by Indian corporations and PSUs to access foreign funds.
    Instruments Covered Commercial bank loans, buyers’ credit, suppliers’ credit, securitised instruments (floating rate notes, fixed-rate bonds), credit from official export credit agencies, and commercial borrowings from multilateral financial institutions.
    Regulation Monitored and regulated by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, along with the Reserve Bank of India.
    Contribution Contributed between 20 and 35% of total capital flows into India in 2012.
    Recent Changes RBI raised ECB limit for infrastructure finance companies from 50% to 75% of owned funds.
    Guideline Changes RBI allowed all eligible borrowers to raise ECB up to USD 750 million per financial year under the automatic route (2019).
    Utilisation of Funds 25% of ECB can be used to repay rupee debt; 75% should be allocated for new projects.
    Regulatory Framework Governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
    Routes for Raising ECBs Automatic Route and Approval Route.

    1. Automatic Route: Cases examined by AD (Authorized Dealer) Category-I Banks.
    2. Approval Route: Borrowers submit requests to RBI through their AD banks for examination.
    Maturity Period ECBs can only be raised for a specific period known as the Minimum Average Maturity Period (MAMP).
    Advantages Offered
    • ECBs offer the opportunity to secure substantial funding.
    • These funds typically come with longer-term repayment options.
    • Interest rates on ECBs are generally lower compared to domestic borrowing rates.
    • ECBs are denominated in foreign currencies, providing corporations with access to foreign currency to fulfil import needs such as machinery procurement.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements :

    1. Most of India’s external debt is owed by governmental entities.
    2. All of India’s external debt is denominated in US dollars.

    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

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    NIMHANS bags WHO’s Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nelson Mandela Award, NIMHANS

    Why in the News?

    • The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India’s premier mental health institution, has been honoured with the “Nelson Mandela Award” for Health Promotion by the World Health Organization (WHO) for 2024.

    About National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS)

    Details
    Location Bangalore, India
    Affiliation Autonomous institute under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India
    Ranking Ranked 4th best medical institute in India by the “National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)”
    History
    • Founded in 1847 as the Bangalore Lunatic Asylum.
    • Renamed as the Mental Hospital in 1925.
    • Amalgamated with the All India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH) in 1974 to form NIMHANS.
    • Conferred with deemed university status by the University Grants Commission in 1994.
    • Declared an Institute of National Importance by an act of parliament in 2012.
    Governance
    • Operates with academic autonomy under the “Societies Registration Act”.
    • Prioritises service, manpower development, and research in mental health and neurosciences.
    • A multidisciplinary integrated approach was adopted for translating research results into practice.
    Funding Receives resources for academic and research activities from national and international funding organisations.
    Outreach
    • Engages in mental health outreach initiatives including critiquing mental health reports and collaborating with government agencies for training and counseling.
    • Known for diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions including depression and neurobiological disorders.

     

    Back2Basics: Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion

    Aspect Details
    Establishment Year 1995
    Presented by World Health Organization (WHO)
    Purpose Recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements in health promotion worldwide
    Namesake Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa
    Criteria for Recognition
    • Innovative approaches
    • Sustainable Impact
    • Dedication to health equity and social justice
    Recipients Individuals, organisations, institutions, or communities
    Selection Process
    • Based on significant strides in health promotion
    • Consideration of efforts in disease prevention and well-being improvement, especially among disadvantaged populations
    Presentation
    • Occurs during special ceremonies or events
    • Often coincides with key health promotion initiatives or milestones
    Significance
    • Symbolises recognition and encouragement for ongoing efforts in health promotion
    • Highlights the importance of collective action and collaboration in addressing health challenges and achieving public health and sustainable development goals

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves.

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    40 Years since Operation Blue Star

    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: Op Blue Star, Golden Temple, Khalistani Movement

    Mains level: Separatists activism and threat to internal security

    Why in the News?

    June 1, the day Punjab votes in the last phase of the Lok Sabha election, happens to be the anniversary of “Operation Blue Star” which has influenced the recent history and politics of the state.

    Operation Blue Star

    • Operation Blue Star was a military operation carried out by the Indian Army in June 1984 to remove  Khalistani group-based militants who were hiding inside the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, Punjab.
    • The militants, led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, had fortified the temple complex and were advocating for an independent Sikh state called Khalistan.
    • The operation aimed to flush out the militants from the Golden Temple complex and restore law and order in the region.
    • However, it resulted in significant casualties and damage to the sacred shrine.
    • The operation began on June 1, 1984, and lasted for 10 days

    The operation was highly controversial and led to widespread outrage among Sikhs, both in India and abroad. It also had political repercussions, including the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards later that year, which sparked anti-Sikh riots across India.

    What is the Khalistan movement?

    • The Khalistan movement is a Sikh separatist movement aiming to establish a sovereign state called Khalistan (Land of the Khalsa) in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan.

    Factors Contributing to Khalistan’s Rise:

    • Partition of India (1947): The division of Punjab and the loss of Sikh holy sites in Pakistan led to a sense of displacement and marginalisation among Sikhs.
    • Linguistic Reorganization of States (1966): The creation of a Sikh-majority Punjab but with reduced territorial size and economic potential further fueled the desire for greater autonomy and cultural rights.
    • Anandpur Sahib Resolution (1973): The demand for greater autonomy and cultural rights for Punjab was seen as a secessionist threat by the central government, leading to increased tensions.
    • External Support: The involvement of external forces, such as Pakistan, which have supported and funded some Khalistani groups for their strategic interests, has also played a significant role in the movement’s persistence.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity?

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

    K-9 Vajra Howitzers and Su-30 MKI Fighter Aircraft Engines                                  

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Indigenization Of Technology

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: K-9 Vajra, Super Sukhoi Project

    Why in the news?

    Several critical ‘Make in India’ defence projects, including acquisitions of K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers and Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft engines, are pending final approval from the Centre post-elections.

    About K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzers:

    • It is a self-propelled howitzer.
    • Technology: It incorporates technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defense based on its K9 Thunder.
    • Development: The K9 gun has been developed under the ‘Buy Global’ programme of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) where foreign companies are allowed to participate.
    • Features: The platform boasts all-welded steel armour protection. Initially intended for desert use, it has been deployed in mountainous regions due to the India-China standoff.
    • Winterisation: To ensure optimal performance in extreme cold conditions, the Army procured winterisation kits for the regiment deployed in mountainous areas.

    About Su-30MKI:

      • The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a two-seater, twinjet multirole air superiority fighter. It is built under license by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
    • Design: 
      • It was designed by Russia’s Sukhoi Corporation beginning in 1995 and built under licence by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
      • The first squadron was inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2002.
    • Characteristics:
      • It is a heavy, all-weather, long-range fighter with a highly integrated twin-finned airframe.
      • The construction materials include titanium and high-strength Aluminium alloy.

    Engine Upgrade:

    India’s “Super Sukhoi” Program aims to enhance the performance and longevity of AL-31F engines, addressing long-standing engine failure issues and deficiencies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship
    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine
    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Agnibaan Sub Orbital Technology Demonstrator (SOrTeD)

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Agnibaan SOrTeD, PS4 Engine

    Why in the News?

    Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited, a space start-up from Chennai, made history by launching the world’s first rocket with a single-piece 3D-printed engine, named Agnibaan Sub Orbital Technology Demonstrator (SOrTeD), from Sriharikota.

    About 3D Printed PS4 Engine

    • The PS4 engine, which forms the uppermost stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), comprises two Earth-storable liquid engines.
    • It uses a bipropellant combination of nitrogen tetroxide as the oxidizer and monomethyl hydrazine as the fuel, both developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
    • This same engine is employed in the Reaction Control System (RCS) of the first stage (PS1) of PSLV.
    • ISRO redesigned the PS4 engine for production using 3D printing technology.
    • The technology helped ISRO bring down the number of parts in the engine from 14 to a single piece.
    • ISRO was able to eliminate 19 weld joints and saved 97% of raw material.
    • It also reduced the overall production time by 60%.

    What is Agnibaan SOrTeD (Suborbital Tech Demonstrator)?

    • Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by Agnikul’s patented Agnilet semi-cryogenic engine.
    • In contrast to traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan SOrTeD’s vertical take-off and precise trajectory enable orchestrated manoeuvres during flight.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

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