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Type: Prelims Only

  • New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

    New Fish Species Discovered: Butis bargabhimae in West Bengal

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

    Why in the News

    Scientists have discovered a new estuarine fish species, named Butis bargabhimae, in the Rupnarayan River near Tamluk.

    About the Species

    1. Classification

    • Family: Butidae (gudgeon gobies)
    • Habitat: Brackish water (estuaries)
    • Found where rivers meet the sea

    2. Discovery Process

    • Time: 2022–2024
    • Institutions: Tamralipta Mahavidyalaya and Vidyasagar University.
    • Method:
      • Field collection by local fishermen
      • Morphological + DNA analysis

    Unique Features

    • Presence of interorbital scales (between eyes)
    • Additional auxiliary body scales
    • Distinct light and dark bands on pectoral fins
    • DNA similarity only ~86% with closest relatives
    • Confirms it as a new species

    Naming Significance

    • Named after Bargabhima, a local deity of Tamluk
    • Reflects link between biodiversity and cultural heritage

    Scientific Importance

    • Taxonomic Clarity: Helped correct misidentification of similar species in:
      • India
      • Bangladesh
    • Role of DNA Barcoding: Shows importance of genetic tools in species identification
    • Hidden Biodiversity: Suggests many undiscovered species in Indian rivers and estuaries
    [2022] DNA Barcoding can be a tool to: 
    1. Assess the age of a plant or animal. 
    2. Distinguish among species that look alike. 
    3. Identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods. 
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 
    (a) 1 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 (d) 2 and 3

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  • Monsoon Updates

    ‘Super El Niño’ Alert: Risk of Record Global Heat

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

    Why in the News

    Forecasters, including NOAA Climate Prediction Center, warn of a possible El Niño in 2026, with chances it could intensify into a “super El Niño”, potentially pushing global temperatures to new highs.

    What is El Niño?

    • A warm phase of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
    • Occurs when Pacific Ocean surface waters become warmer than normal

    What is a “Super El Niño”?

    • When sea surface temperature rises ≥ 2°C above average
    • Much stronger than normal El Niño
    • Rare events: Last major one: 2015–16

    Current Situation

    • Present phase: La Niña (cool phase) is ending
    • Forecast: ~62% chance of El Niño by mid-2026 and ~15% chance of super El Niño

    How El Niño Works

    • Warm water shifts toward eastern Pacific
    • Weakens trade winds
    • Alters global weather systems
    [2011] La Niña is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Niña different from El Niño? 
    1. La Niña is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperature in the equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Niño is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. 
    2. El Niño has an adverse effect on the southwest monsoon of India, but La Niña has no effect on monsoon climate. 
    Select the correct answer: 
    (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

    Impact of China’s Lithium Policy on India’s EV Sector

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News

    China has imposed export controls and licensing requirements on key lithium-ion battery components and technology, raising concerns for India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector, which is highly import-dependent.

    What are China’s Policy Changes?

    China has restricted exports of:

    • High-performance lithium-ion batteries (≥300 Wh/kg)
    • Cathode materials
    • Artificial graphite anodes
    • Battery manufacturing technology
      • China dominates the midstream processing stage of EV battery supply chains.

    Impact on India’s EV Sector

    1. Supply Chain Vulnerability

    • India depends almost entirely on imports for lithium
    • Heavy reliance on Chinese processing → risk of disruptions

    2. Rising Battery Costs

    • Restrictions may increase prices of: Lithium, Cobalt, and Nickel.
      • Leads to higher EV prices

    3. Slower EV Adoption

    • Increased costs → reduced affordability
    • Could delay India’s EV transition targets

    Government Response (India)

    • National Critical Mineral Mission: Ensures long-term supply security
      • Covers full value chain: Exploration → Mining → Processing → Recycling
    • Domestic Mining & Auctions: 46 critical mineral blocks auctioned
    • Overseas Acquisition: Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL)
      • Lithium exploration in Catamarca
    • Recycling Push: ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme for: Battery recycling and Recovery from waste (fly ash, tailings, etc.).
    [2025] In the context of electric vehicle batteries, consider the following elements: 
    1. Cobalt 
    2. Graphite 
    3. Lithium 
    4. Nickel 
    How many of the above usually make up battery cathodes? 
    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All the four

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  • New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

    Rare ‘Dual-Sex’ Crab Discovered in Silent Valley

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

    Why in the News

    A rare freshwater crab species, Vela carli, found in Silent Valley National Park, has been discovered showing both male and female biological traits.

    What was discovered?

    • Scientists found three crabs exhibiting dual sexual characteristics
    • The condition is called Gynandromorphy
    • Example in this case:
    • Some body parts had male reproductive organs
    • Others had female features (gonopores)

    What is Gynandromorphy?

    • A rare biological condition where: An organism shows both male and female characteristics.
    • Usually caused by: Errors during cell division (chromosomal distribution). 
    • Important distinction:
      • Not hermaphroditism (where both reproductive organs function normally)
      • Instead, it is a mosaic of male and female tissues

    About Vela Carli

    • Vela carli is a freshwater crab species endemic to India, specifically found in the Central Western Ghats, one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
    [2013] Consider the following pairs: National Park : River flowing through the Park Corbett National Park : Ganga Kaziranga National Park : Manas Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 (d) None

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  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    National Quantum Mission: Govt Clears 23 Institutions for Quantum Labs

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

    Why in the News

    The Government has approved 23 institutions to set up quantum teaching laboratories under the National Quantum Mission, with around 100 more proposals under evaluation.

    About National Quantum Mission (NQM)

    • Approved in 2023 with an outlay of ₹6003.65 crore
    • Duration: 2023–2031
    • Aim: Position India as a global leader in quantum technologies

    Key Objectives

    • Quantum Computing: Develop 50–1,000 qubit quantum computers
      • Higher qubits = more computational power
    • Quantum Communication: Build satellite-based secure communication systems.
      • Enable hack-proof encryption (quantum key distribution)
    • Quantum Sensing & Materials: 
      • Develop: High-precision sensors (defence, navigation) and Advanced quantum materials.

    What are Quantum Labs?

    • Teaching and research facilities in universities
    • Focus on:
      • Training students in quantum technologies
      • Building skilled manpower
    • Help bridge India’s quantum skill gap

    Significance of the Move

    • Capacity Building: Creates a pipeline of skilled researchers and engineers
      • Strengthens India’s R&D ecosystem
    • Strategic Importance: Quantum tech has applications in:
      • Defence (secure communication)
      • Cybersecurity
      • Space & navigation
    • Helps India compete with:
      • United States
      • China
    • Economic Potential: Quantum technologies expected to drive: Next-gen computing and Innovation-led growth. 
    [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

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Sejjil Ballistic Missile (Dancing Missile)

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News

    Iran has deployed the Sejjil missile in active combat for the first time during “Wave 54” strikes against U.S. and Israeli positions, marking a major escalation in the Iran–US-Israel conflict (2026).

    What is the Sejjil Missile?

    • An indigenously developed, two-stage Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM)
    • Also known as Sajjil / Ashura
    • Represents Iran’s shift from liquid-fuel → solid-fuel missile technology.

    Evasive Maneuverability

    • Nicknamed “dancing missile”
    • Capable of mid-course manoeuvres, making interception difficult for systems like: Iron Dome and Arrow Missile Defence System.
    [2023] Consider the following statements: Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at sub-sonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. 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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  • Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

    Jal Jeevan Mission & Sujal Gaon ID

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: E-Governance,Government Scheme/Policies

    Why in the News

    The government has launched Sujal Gaon ID for digital mapping of rural water schemes.

    • Approved Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 extension till Dec 2028.
    • Increased total outlay to ₹8.69 lakh crore.

    What is Sujal Gaon ID?

    • A unique digital ID for every rural piped water supply scheme
    • Enables end-to-end mapping (source → infrastructure → service area)
    • Integrated under “Sujalam Bharat” digital platform

    Key Facts

    • 1.64 lakh Sujal Gaon IDs created
    • Linked to 67,000 Sujalam Bharat IDs
    • Covers 31 States/UTs
    • Aim: Real-time monitoring, transparency, and accountability
    [2024] With reference to the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, consider the following statements: To implement the scheme, the Central Government provides 100% funding. Under the Scheme, Cadastral Maps are digitised. An initiative has been undertaken to transliterate the Records of Rights from local language to any of the languages recognized by the Constitution of India. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation)

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News

    India’s indigenous navigation system NavIC has been weakened after the failure of the last atomic clock onboard the satellite IRNSS-1F.
    This has reduced the number of fully functional satellites to below the required minimum, affecting navigation accuracy.

    What is NavIC?

    • Developed by ISRO.
    • India’s regional alternative to GPS.
    • Provides Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services.
    • Coverage: India + ~1500 km beyond its borders.

    Role of Atomic Clocks

    • Atomic clocks provide extremely precise time signals.
    • Navigation works by measuring time delay of signals from satellites.
    • Even a tiny error in time → large error in location. 
    • Hence, clock failure = loss of navigation capability.

    What has happened?

    • The last working atomic clock on IRNSS-1F failed (March 2026).
    • Many earlier NavIC satellites had already lost their clocks.
    • Now:
      • Only 3 satellites are effectively usable
      • Minimum 4 satellites needed for reliable navigation

    Why is this a Concern?

    • Weakens India’s GPS Alternative: NavIC is meant as a strategic backup to systems like GPS (Global Positioning System).
      • Failure reduces self-reliance in critical sectors.
    • Strategic & Security Implications: In conflicts, access to foreign systems may be restricted or denied.
      • Weak NavIC leads to vulnerability in defence navigation.
    • Impact on Civil Applications:
      • Transport and logistics
      • Disaster management
      • Timing systems (banking, telecom)

    Causes of the Problem

    • Heavy reliance on imported atomic clocks (from foreign suppliers).
    • Ageing satellites (many crossed 10-year design life).
    • Earlier multiple clock failures across satellites.

    Steps Taken by India

    • Indigenous Atomic Clocks: New satellites use indigenously developed rubidium atomic clocks. Example: NVS-01
    • Replacement Satellites: ISRO plans to launch at least 3 new satellites by 2026.
    [2018] With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements: IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits. IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders. India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) None

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Force Majeure in Global Energy Trade

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News

    Amid the ongoing Iran–US-Israel conflict (2026), major Gulf producers like Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have invoked force majeure on oil and gas exports due to shipping disruptions and attacks on infrastructure.

    What is Force Majeure?

    • Force majeure is a contractual clause that allows a party to suspend or cancel its obligations without penalty when extraordinary events make performance impossible.
    • Origin: French term meaning “superior force”
    • Common in international trade, energy contracts, and maritime law

    Examples of Force Majeure Events

    • Wars and armed conflicts
    • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
    • Pandemics (e.g., COVID-19)
    • Government actions or sanctions
    [2024] Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe. Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Kharg Island

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News

    The United States launched airstrikes on military targets on Kharg Island during the ongoing US–Israel conflict with Iran. Although oil infrastructure was not targeted, the attack raises fears of disruption in global oil supply and a potential spike in crude prices.

    What is Kharg Island?

    • A small 8-km-long coral island in the Persian Gulf.
    • Located about 50 km off Iran’s mainland coast.
    • Serves as Iran’s primary oil export hub.

    Why Kharg Island is Strategically Important

    • Iran’s Main Oil Export Terminal: About 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports pass through Kharg Island. Pipelines from major Iranian oil fields terminate here before exports.
    • Massive Oil Infrastructure: Key facilities on the island include:
      • Falat Iran Oil Company producing around 500,000 barrels per day.
      • Kharg Petrochemical Company.
      • Large oil storage and LNG shipping facilities.
    • Suitable Geography for Large Tankers: Much of Iran’s coastline is too shallow for very large crude carriers (VLCCs). Kharg lies near deep waters, allowing large oil tankers to dock easily.

    Oil Trade Through Kharg

    • Normally ≈1.5 million barrels of oil per day exported through the island.
    • Iran reportedly increased exports to ≈3 million barrels/day before the strike anticipating conflict.
    • About 18 million barrels of oil stored there as reserve capacity.

    Why the Attack Matters

    • Impact on Oil Prices: If Kharg’s oil infrastructure were destroyed, 90% of Iran’s exports could stop. Global crude prices could surge towards $150 per barrel.
    • Strategic Signalling: The U.S. targeted military sites but avoided oil infrastructure, possibly to:
      • Avoid a major global energy shock.
      • Signal restraint while warning Iran against disrupting shipping.
    • Risk to Shipping Routes: The U.S. Navy plans to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries a large share of global oil trade.
    [2012] To meet its rapidly growing energy demand, some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context, what advantage does thorium hold over uranium? Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium. On the basis of per unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium. Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium. 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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