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Type: Prelims Only

  • Nuclear Energy

    Thorium and India’s 100 GWe Nuclear Power Mission by 2047

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

    Why in the News

    Experts have highlighted the importance of thorium-based nuclear energy in achieving India’s target of 100 gigawatts electric (GWe) nuclear power capacity by 2047, especially after the passage of the SHANTI Act 2025.

    Why Thorium is Important for India

    1. Largest Thorium Reserves

    • India possesses the world’s largest thorium reserves.
    • Thorium deposits are mainly found in monazite sands along the Indian coastline.

    2. Energy Security

    • India’s current nuclear programme relies heavily on imported uranium because domestic uranium ores are low-grade.
    • A nuclear capacity of 100 GWe would require 18,000–20,000 tonnes of uranium annually, which may become difficult to secure globally.

    3. Reduced Nuclear Proliferation Risk

    • Thorium fuel cycles produce less weapons-usable material, reducing proliferation risks compared to conventional uranium cycles.

    India’s Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme

    The programme was designed to use India’s large thorium resources.

    Stage 1: Thermal Reactors

    • Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor
    • Uses natural uranium as fuel.

    Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)

    • Convert plutonium and fertile materials into more fuel.
    • India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) is nearing completion.

    Stage 3: Thorium-Based Reactors

    • Thorium is converted into uranium-233, which becomes the main fuel.

    Key Technologies for Thorium Deployment

    • Fast Breeder Reactors: Essential to generate uranium-233 from thorium.
    • Thorium Molten Salt Reactors (TMSR): Advanced reactors designed for thorium fuel cycles.
    • Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Compact reactors that can produce electricity and green hydrogen.
    • HALEU Fuel: High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium
      • Can be combined with thorium in existing reactors to accelerate the thorium fuel cycle.

    Role of Nuclear Fuel Recycling

    • Nuclear recycling can increase the energy potential of fuel 50–100 times.
    • Countries such as France, Russia, and India already use such technologies
    [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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  • FDI in Indian economy

    Changes in India’s FDI Policy for Land Bordering Countries (LBCs)

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

    Why in the News

    The Government of India has introduced calibrated changes to its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy for Land Bordering Countries (LBCs) to boost investment in key manufacturing sectors such as electronics components and rare earth magnets.

    Background: Press Note 3 (PN3) – 2020

    • In April 2020, India introduced Press Note 3 (2020).
    • It mandated prior government approval for investments from countries sharing land borders with India.

    Countries Covered

    • China
    • Pakistan
    • Bangladesh
    • Nepal
    • Myanmar
    • Bhutan
    • Afghanistan

    Reason: Prevent opportunistic takeovers of Indian companies during the COVID-19 economic slowdown, particularly by Chinese investors.

    Key Changes in the FDI Policy (2026)

    • Automatic Route for Small Indirect Ownership: Investments will be allowed under the automatic route if beneficial ownership from LBCs is below 10%.
      • This mainly benefits global private equity and venture capital funds with minor Chinese stakes.
    • Faster Approval Process: Investment proposals from LBCs in certain sectors must now be processed within 60 days.
    • Investment in “Specified Sectors”: Allowed sectors include:
      • Electronic components manufacturing
      • Electronic capital goods
      • Polysilicon and wafer manufacturing
      • Advanced battery components
      • Rare earth magnets and processing.
    • However, these investments must ensure Indian majority ownership (at least 51%).
    • Pakistan Exception: Investments from Pakistan will continue to require government approval and remain restricted.

    Why the Policy Was Relaxed

    • The change follows recommendations from: NITI Aayog and Economic Survey 2023-24. 
    • These reports argued that Chinese capital and technology could help India strengthen export competitiveness, particularly in electronics manufacturing.

    Who Benefits?

    • Global Investment Funds: Funds like private equity and venture capital firms with minor Chinese ownership can invest without lengthy approvals.
    • Manufacturing Sector: Industries that depend on imported inputs such as: Electronics components, Rare earth magnets, and Semiconductor materials.
    • Indian Firms: Joint ventures with foreign companies while maintaining majority Indian control.
    [2021] Consider the following: Foreign currency convertible bonds Foreign institutional investment with certain conditions Global depository receipts Non-resident external deposits Which of the above can be included in Foreign Direct Investments? (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 4 (d) 1 and 4

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  • LPG Consumption in India

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

    Why in the News

    Recent data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell shows that although India has over 34 crore LPG consumers, the average household consumption is only about half a cylinder per month, especially in rural areas.

    Key Data Highlights

    LPG Consumers in India

    • Total LPG consumers: ≈33.37 crore households
    • Connections under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: 10.56 crore

    Growth in LPG Consumption

    • LPG consumption increased six-fold: 446 TMT in 1998–99 and 2,754 TMT in 2025–26
    • Major growth occurred during the 2000s and 2010s (8–11% annually).
    • A sharp rise happened in 2016–17 after the launch of PMUY.

    Household Consumption Pattern

    Average LPG Use per Household

    • Delhi (mostly urban): ~ 11.4 kg per month
    • Bihar (mostly rural): ~ 6.7 kg per month
    • Uttar Pradesh: ~ 7.7 kg per month

    States with Highest LPG Consumers

    • Uttar Pradesh – 4.87 crore consumers (highest)
    • Maharashtra – 3.2 crore
    • West Bengal – 2.72 crore
    • Tamil Nadu – 2.4 crore
    • Bihar – 2.33 crore

    Key Insight

    • Urban households rely almost entirely on LPG, leading to higher monthly usage.
    • Rural households often combine LPG with traditional fuels, resulting in lower consumption despite having connections.
    [2009] With which one of the following has the B.K. Chaturvedi Committee dealt? (a) Review of Centre-States relation (b) Review of Delimitation Act (c) Tax reforms and measures to increase revenues (d) Price reforms in the oil sector

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  • Civil Services Reforms

    UPSC Rule on Appointment of State DGP

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Constitutional Bodies

    Why in the News

    The Union Public Service Commission has revised the procedure for empanelment of State Director-General of Police (DGP). States must now obtain approval from the Supreme Court of India if there is a delay in submitting names for the DGP selection process.

    Key Provisions of the New Rule

    • Supreme Court Approval for Delays: If a State government delays sending the list of eligible DGP-rank officers, it must seek permission or clarification from the Supreme Court before the UPSC proceeds.
    • Advance Submission of Names: States must send proposals to UPSC at least three months before the retirement of the incumbent DGP.
    • No “Acting DGP” Appointments: The Court reiterated that appointing an Acting DGP is not permitted, as per earlier judicial directions.
    • Exceptional Situations: Delays may be allowed only in exceptional circumstances such as: Death of the incumbent DGP, Resignation, and Premature relieving from service.

    Background: DGP Appointment Process

    • The UPSC prepares a panel of three senior IPS officers eligible for the post of State DGP.
    • The State government then selects one officer from the panel to become the Head of Police Force (HoPF).

    Judicial Basis

    • The rules stem from the landmark police reform judgment in: Prakash Singh vs Union of India (2006)
    • This case mandated reforms to ensure professional and politically independent policing, including a fixed tenure for DGPs and a transparent selection process.

    Reason for the Change

    • Several States had delayed sending proposals or appointed temporary/acting DGPs, bypassing the process.
    • The R. Venkataramani stated that UPSC cannot condone such delays without Supreme Court approval.

    Significance

    • Strengthens transparency and uniformity in DGP appointments.
    • Ensures compliance with police reforms mandated by the Supreme Court.
    • Prevents political manipulation or temporary appointments in top police positions.
    [2016] Consider the following statements: The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State. The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure. 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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  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    Supreme Court Urges Crop Diversification Towards Pulses

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Why in the News

    The Supreme Court of India asked the Union Government to reconsider agricultural policies and encourage farmers to shift from wheat and paddy cultivation to pulses.

    Key Observations by the Court

    • A Bench headed by Surya Kant stressed the need for agricultural diversification, particularly in North India where paddy cultivation dominates.
    • The Court noted that excessive cultivation of paddy may not be necessary except for export needs, and land could instead be used for pulses.

    Directions to the Government

    1. Review the policy framework to promote pulse cultivation.
    2. Convene a meeting of stakeholders, including experts and farmer representatives.
    3. Address issues affecting pulse farmers such as:
      • Lack of adequate Minimum Support Price (MSP) incentives.
      • Ensuring guaranteed and timely procurement of pulses.
      • Fixing the cost price of imported yellow peas so imports do not harm domestic producers.

    Relevant ministries expected to participate include:

    • Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
    • Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • Ministry of Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution

    Context

    • The case was filed by the farmers’ organisation Kisan Mahapanchayat, which sought restrictions on yellow pea imports to protect domestic pulse farmers.

    Significance

    • Promoting pulses could:
      • Improve soil health through nitrogen fixation.
      • Reduce water-intensive paddy cultivation.
      • Enhance India’s nutritional security, as pulses are a major protein source.
      • Reduce dependence on pulse imports.
    [2020] With reference to pulse production in India, consider the following statements: Black gram can be cultivated as both kharif and rabi crop. Green-gram alone accounts for nearly half of pulse production. In the last three decades, while the production of kharif pulses has increased, the production of rabi pulses has decreased. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 (India – Seychelles Joint Military Exercise)

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

    Why in the News

    The 11th edition of Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 is being conducted from 10 to 22 March 2026 at the Seychelles Defence Academy, strengthening defence cooperation between India and Seychelles.

    Key Highlights

    First Tri-Services Edition

    • For the first time, the exercise includes personnel from: Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force
    • Conducted with the Seychelles Defence Forces.

    Objective

    • Enhance interoperability and joint operational capability between the armed forces of both countries.
    • Focus on sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments, especially relevant to United Nations Peacekeeping missions.
    [2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct? This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh. It commenced in Aundh (Pune). Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise. Select the answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Supreme Court on Paid Menstrual Pain Leave

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

    Why in the News

    The Supreme Court of India expressed concern that making paid menstrual leave legally mandatory could unintentionally harm women’s career prospects and employment opportunities.

    Key Observations by the Court

    Possible Career Impact

    • The Bench led by Surya Kant cautioned that a mandatory law for menstrual leave could:
      • Discourage employers from assigning major responsibilities to women.
      • Reduce employment opportunities for young women.
      • Lead to workplace bias in hiring or promotions.

    Preference for Voluntary Policies

    • The Court distinguished between:
      • Statutory mandatory rights, and
      • Voluntary policies adopted by employers or institutions.
    • It encouraged voluntary initiatives instead of imposing a compulsory nationwide law.

    Context of the Petition

    • The plea sought a uniform national law granting paid menstrual leave to: Working women and Female students.
    • The petitioner argued that such leave is linked to dignity and health under Article 21 (Right to Life).

    Existing Examples in India

    • Some states and institutions already provide menstrual leave voluntarily: Odisha, Kerala, and Karnataka.
    • Certain universities and private organisations have also introduced menstrual leave policies.

    International Context

    • Several countries have adopted menstrual leave policies, including: Spain, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Zambia
    • The petition also cited India’s commitment under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

    Significance

    • Raises an important debate on gender equality vs workplace practicality.
    • Highlights the need for sensitive workplace policies while avoiding unintended discrimination.
    [2019] With reference to the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017, consider the following statements: Pregnant women are entitled for three months pre-delivery and three months post-delivery paid leave. This act applies to all organisations with 20 or more employees. It has made it mandatory for every organisation with 100 or more employees to have a crèche. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Right To Privacy

    Supreme Court Declines Plea to Make NAT Tests Mandatory in Blood Banks

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

    Why in the News

    The Supreme Court of India refused to direct the government to mandate Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) in blood banks for screening donated blood before transfusions.

    Court’s Decision

    • A bench headed by Surya Kant declined to issue a judicial order making NAT tests compulsory.
    • The Court said judges lack specialised expertise in medical science and cost assessment required for such policy decisions.
    • States also have financial constraints, which must be considered before mandating expensive tests.

    Direction Given

    • The petitioner NGO was allowed to submit representations to State Health Secretaries.
    • State governments may decide on NAT adoption with the advice of medical experts.

    What is Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT)?

    NAT (Nucleic Acid Test) is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the genetic material (DNA/RNA) of viruses in blood.

    Detects infections such as:

    • Human Immunodeficiency Virus
    • Hepatitis B virus
    • Hepatitis C virus

    Advantages

    • Detects infections earlier during the “window period” before antibodies appear.
    • More accurate and sensitive than traditional screening tests.

    Limitation

    • Much more expensive, making universal adoption difficult for many public hospitals.

    Current Standard Test

    Most blood banks in India currently use the Enzyme‑Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), which detects antibodies against viruses.

    Context of the Petition

    • Filed by an NGO to protect thalassemia patients, who require frequent blood transfusions.
    • The plea gained attention after several children in Madhya Pradesh reportedly contracted HIV from contaminated blood transfusions in 2025.

    Constitutional Argument

    • The petitioner argued that safe blood transfusion is part of the Right to Life under Article 21, but the Court held that policy decisions involving cost and technology should be taken by governments with expert input.
    [2019] With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following? (a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law. (b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament. (c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet. (d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.

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  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    Economic Stabilisation Fund to Tackle Global Headwinds

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the News

    The Government of India has created an Economic Stabilisation Fund of ₹57,381 crore through the Second Supplementary Demand for Grants to manage economic shocks arising from global crises such as the West Asia conflict and rising oil prices.

    Key Highlights

    1. Supplementary Demand for Grants

    • The Lok Sabha approved the Second Supplementary Demand for Grants.
    • Gross additional expenditure: about ₹2.81 lakh crore.
    • Estimated savings and receipts: around ₹80,000 crore.
    • Net additional cash outgo: about ₹2.01 lakh crore.

    2. Economic Stabilisation Fund

    • Allocation: ₹57,381 crore.
    • Purpose: Provide fiscal space to address global economic uncertainties, including
      • Oil price shocks
      • Supply chain disruptions
      • External economic crises
      • Sector-specific shocks.
    • According to Nirmala Sitharaman, the fund will help the government respond quickly to unexpected global developments.

    3. Context: Global Economic Pressures

    • Rising crude oil prices (around $100 per barrel).
    • Disruptions due to West Asia conflict affecting energy supply chains.
    • Risk of broader global economic instability.

    4. Fiscal Deficit Assurance

    • The government reiterated that India’s fiscal deficit target for FY 2025–26 will remain at 4.4% of GDP, even after these additional expenditures.

    Significance

    • Acts as a buffer mechanism against external economic shocks.
    • Enhances fiscal flexibility for emergency responses.
    • Helps maintain macroeconomic stability without deviating from the fiscal consolidation roadmap.
    [2012] Which of the following are the methods of Parliamentary control over public finance in India? 1. Placing Annual Financial Statement before the Parliament. 2. Withdrawal of moneys from Consolidated Fund of India only after passing the Appropriation Bill. 3. Provisions of supplementary grants and vote-on-account. A periodic or at least a mid-year review of programmes of the Government against macroeconomic forecasts and expenditure by a Parliamentary Budget Office. Introducing Finance Bill in the Parliament. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 3, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    U.S. KC-135 Refuelling Aircraft Crash in Iraq

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

    Why in the News

    A KC‑135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members during the ongoing regional conflict.

    Incident Details

    • The aircraft belonged to the United States Air Force.
    • The crash occurred during operations linked to Operation Epic Fury.
    • A second aircraft involved in the mission landed safely.

    About the KC-135 Aircraft

    • Introduced over 60 years ago for aerial refuelling missions.
    • Typical crew: pilot, co-pilot, and boom operator.
    • Can carry additional crew or up to 37 passengers depending on the mission.
    • Plays a key role in extending the operational range of fighter and bomber aircraft.
    [2025] With reference to India’s defence, consider the following pairs: Dornier-228: Maritime patrol aircraft IL-76: Supersonic combat aircraft C-17 Globemaster III: Military transport aircraft How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (Dornier-228 and C-17 Globemaster III are correctly matched) (c) All the three (d) None

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