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Type: Prelims Only

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Vulture Safe Zones in Tamil Nadu

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

    Why in the News?

    The Tamil Nadu Forest Department informed the Madras High Court that the process of establishing Vulture Safe Zones (VSZs) has begun in the State to protect critically endangered vulture species from toxic veterinary drugs.

    Background of the Case

    • Submission made before a Division Bench headed by Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava
    • Status report filed in response to a Public Interest Litigation
    • PIL filed by K Surya Kumar
    • Aim is to prevent mass mortality and near extinction of vultures

    What are Vulture Safe Zones (VSZs)?

    • Geographically defined areas
    • Use of toxic veterinary NSAIDs strictly prohibited
    • Ensure availability of safe carcasses for vultures
    • Promote recovery of vulture populations
    • Part of India’s vulture conservation strategy

    Major Threat Addressed

    • Diclofenac and other NSAIDs
      • Used to treat cattle
      • Residues remain in carcasses
      • Cause kidney failure in vultures
    • Primary reason for over 95 percent decline in vulture population in India since the 1990s

    Prelims Pointers

    • Vulture Safe Zones target NSAID free landscapes
    • Diclofenac is the most lethal drug for vultures
    • First VSZ in Tamil Nadu proposed in Moyar River Valley
    • Monitoring radius is 100 km
    • Based on Vision Document for Vulture Conservation 2025 to 2030
    • Vultures are protected under Wildlife Protection Act 1972
    [2012] Vultures which used to be very common in Indian countryside some years ago are rarely seen nowadays. This is attributed to: 

    (a) the destruction of their nesting sites by new invasive species 

    (b) a drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle 

    (c) scarcity of food available to them 

    (d) a widespread, persistent and fatal disease among them

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Rise in Mugger Crocodile Population in Similipal National Park

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

    Why in the News?

    Similipal National Park in Odisha recorded an increase in its mugger crocodile population to 84 during a three day census in 2026, reversing a declining trend observed in recent years.

    About Similipal National Park

    • A National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Biosphere Reserve
    • Forms part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve
    • Included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009
    • Among India’s most biodiverse protected landscapes

    Location

    • Situated in Mayurbhanj district, northern Odisha
    • Lies within the Eastern Ghats
    • Area of about 2,750 sq km
    • One of the largest tiger reserves in India

    Mugger Crocodile Census and Conservation

    Census Findings

    • 2026 census recorded 84 mugger crocodiles
    • Increase from 81 individuals in 2025
    • West Deo River alone hosts about 60 crocodiles
    • Indicates stabilisation and early recovery of the species

    Conservation Efforts

    • Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List
    • Recovery attributed to the Ramtirtha Mugger Crocodile Breeding Centre
    • Centre releases hatchlings annually into Similipal rivers
    • Focus on
      • Habitat protection
      • Scientific monitoring
      • Assisted population reinforcement
    [2011] Two important rivers — one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha — merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this? 

    (a) Bhitarkanika 

    (b) Chandipur-on-sea 

    (c) Gopalpur-on-sea 

    (d) Simlipal

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

    China reiterates claim over Shaksgam Valley

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

    Why in the news?

    China has reasserted its cartographical claim over the Shaksgam Valley and defended its infrastructure activities there as legitimate. India has strongly rejected these claims, reiterating that Shaksgam Valley is Indian territory and that the 1963 China Pakistan agreement ceding the area is illegal and invalid.

    About Shaksgam Valley (Trans Karakoram Tract)

    • Location: High altitude valley north of the Karakoram range, bordering China’s Xinjiang region
    • Political status: Part of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, specifically the Hunza Gilgit region
    • Strategic proximity: Close to Siachen Glacier and Aksai Chin
    • Area involved: About 5,180 sq km illegally ceded by Pakistan to China in 1963

    Background of the dispute

    • 1963 Sino Pakistan Border Agreement: Pakistan illegally transferred Shaksgam Valley to China. India never recognised this agreement
    • Article 6 of the agreement: Clearly states the boundary settlement is temporary and subject to renegotiation after the final resolution of the Kashmir dispute
    • India’s position: Pakistan had no sovereign right to cede Indian territory
       Hence the agreement is null and void

    Prelims pointers

    • Shaksgam Valley = Trans Karakoram Tract
    • Illegally ceded by Pakistan to China in 1963
    • India has never recognised the agreement
    • CPEC passes through Indian territory under illegal occupation
    • Article 6 of 1963 agreement weakens China Pakistan legal claim
    [2020] Siachen Glacier is situated to the: 

    (a) East of Aksai Chin 

    (b) East of Leh 

    (c) North of Gilgit 

    (d) North of Nubra Valley

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  • Financial Inclusion in India and Its Challenges

    PFRDA forms high-level committee for assured payouts under NPS

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

    Why in the news?

    The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has constituted a high-level committee to frame guidelines and regulations for assured pension payouts under the National Pension System (NPS), aimed at strengthening retirement income security.

    About the committee

    • Chairperson: Dr. M. S. Sahoo, Former Chairperson, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
    • Composition: 15 members from legal, actuarial, finance, insurance, capital markets and academia
    • Flexibility: Power to invite external experts and intermediaries as special invitees
    • Nature: Standing advisory committee on structured pension payouts

    Key objectives and terms of reference

    • Assured payout framework: Draft regulations for assured and structured pension payouts, based on PFRDA consultation paper dated 30 September 2025
    • Seamless transition: Smooth shift from accumulation phase to decumulation payout phase
    • Market based assurance: Explore novation and settlement mechanisms for legally enforceable guarantees
    • Operational design: Define lock in period, withdrawal limits, pricing mechanisms and fee structures
    • Risk and legal oversight: Specify capital and solvency norms and examine tax implications for in-system payouts
    • Consumer protection: Standardised disclosure framework to prevent mis selling and manage subscriber expectations

    Significance

    • Enhances predictability and security of retirement income
    • Strengthens trust and attractiveness of NPS
    • Supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 with financial dignity in old age
    [2017] Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS)? 

    (a) Resident Indian citizens only 

    (b) Persons of age from 21 to 55 only 

    (c) All State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments 

    (d) All Central Governments Employees including those of Armed Forces joining the services on or after 1st April, 2004

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

    Havana Syndrome Back 

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

    Why in the News?

    A renewed debate has emerged in the United States over Havana Syndrome after reports that the United States Department of Defense has been testing a covertly acquired device capable of emitting pulsed radio frequency energy, according to a report by CNN.  

    What is Havana Syndrome

    • Also officially termed Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs)
    • First reported in 2016 by US diplomats stationed in Havana, Cuba
    • Symptoms include:
      • Severe headaches
      • Dizziness and vertigo
      • Cognitive difficulties and memory issues
      • Sensations similar to head trauma without visible injury
    • Since then, cases have been reported across Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa
    • Affected personnel include:
      • Diplomats
      • Intelligence officers
      • Military personnel

    Why It Is Difficult to Diagnose

    • No single, universally accepted medical definition
    • Delayed clinical examinations in many cases
    • Symptoms overlap with stress related and neurological disorders
    • Lack of direct physical evidence in most incidents

    Cause: 

    Havana Syndrome, officially termed Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs), does not have one conclusively proven cause.

    • Pulsed electromagnetic / microwave energy: Most plausible explanation. Can cause neurological symptoms without visible injury.
    • Possible directed-energy device exposure: Suspected use of portable energy-emitting devices for covert harassment or surveillance.
    • Psychological and stress-related factors: High-stress diplomatic environments may have contributed in some cases.
    • Acoustic (sound-based) causes: Initially suspected but largely ruled out due to weak scientific support.
    • Environmental or chemical exposure: Considered but no common toxin identified across locations.
    [2010] Consider the following: 

    1. Bluetooth device 

    2. Cordless phone 

    3. Microwave oven 

    4. Wi-Fi device 

    Which of the above can operate between 2.4 and 2.5 GHz range of radio frequency band? 

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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  • Responsible Nations Index (RNI)

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

    Why in the News

    A press conference was held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi ahead of the launch of the Responsible Nations Index (RNI), a globally anchored index conceptualised and led by India. The Index will be formally launched on 19 January 2026.

    About the Responsible Nations Index (RNI)

    • The Responsible Nations Index (RNI) is India’s first global index that evaluates countries based on responsible governance and ethical global conduct, rather than military power or GDP alone.
    • It aims to present a value based and holistic assessment of national performance

    Objectives

    • Move beyond GDP centric and power centric rankings
    • Promote ethics, responsibility and sustainability in global governance
    • Encourage dialogue on:
      • Global food security
      • Environmental stewardship
      • Responsible leadership in international affairs

    Launched by

    • World Intellectual Foundation is an India-based, non-partisan public policy think tank headquartered in New Delhi.
    • In collaboration with:
      • Jawaharlal Nehru University
      • Indian Institute of Management Mumbai
      • Dr Ambedkar International Centre

    Core Dimensions of RNI

    1. Internal Responsibility
      • Dignity and justice
      • Well being and welfare of citizens
      • Inclusive and responsible governance
    2. Environmental Responsibility
      • Stewardship of natural resources
      • Climate action and sustainability
      • Ecological protection
    3. External Responsibility
      • Contribution to peace and stability
      • International cooperation
      • Responsible global conduct

    Prelims Pointers

    • RNI is India’s first globally anchored index
    • Covers 154 countries
    • Structured around internal, environmental and external responsibility
    • Launched by World Intellectual Foundation
    [2018] “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following? 

    (a) Amnesty International 

    (b) International Court of Justice 

    (c) The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights 

    (d) World Justice Project

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Karuna Abhiyan 2026

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

    Why in the News?

    The Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel visited the Wildlife Care Centre at Bodakdev, Ahmedabad to review rescue and treatment operations under Karuna Abhiyan 2026, a statewide initiative to rescue birds injured by kite strings during the Uttarayan festival.

    About Karuna Abhiyan

    • Karuna Abhiyan is a state led compassionate wildlife rescue campaign aimed at saving birds and animals injured during festivals, especially Uttarayan.
    • It focuses on rescue, treatment, rehabilitation and release of injured wildlife.
    • Launched in 2017
    • First state driven initiative of its kind in India
    • Implementing Departments: Forest Department, Animal Husbandry Department, Municipal bodies and Voluntary organisations and NGOs

    Special Features

    • Water Birds Unit for specialised avian care
    • 24×7 WhatsApp helpline: 8320002000
      • Sending “Hi” provides district wise treatment centre details
    • Emergency helpline: 1926
    • Animal Husbandry helpline: 1962

    Prelims Pointers

    • Karuna Abhiyan was launched in 2017 by Gujarat
    • Conducted mainly during Uttarayan
    • Focuses on bird and animal rescue
    • Uses WhatsApp based grievance and rescue reporting
    • Considered the first state driven wildlife rescue campaign in India
    [2014] Every year, a month-long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes? 

    (a) Bhutia and Lepcha 

    (b) Gond and Korku 

    (c) Irula and Toda 

    (d) Sahariya and Agariya

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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    CEC Recommends Restoring Original ESZ Around Bannerghatta National Park

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

    Why in the News?

    In January 2026, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) recommended restoring the original 2016 Ecologically Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Bannerghatta National Park, reversing the reduced ESZ notified in 2020.

    About Bannerghatta National Park (BNP)

    • A protected wildlife reserve and biodiversity hotspot
    • Acts as the southern green lung of Bengaluru
    • Crucial for conserving forests, elephants, and wildlife corridors
    • Located in the Anekal hill range, Karnataka

    Geological and Physical Features

    • Granite hill ranges: Ancient granite formations of the Anekal Hills
    • Moist deciduous valleys: Support elephants, deer and predators
    • Dry scrub uplands: Important grazing habitats
    • Wildlife corridors: Links BR Hills and Sathyamangalam forests, forming a key elephant corridor
    • Water system: Suvarnamukhi stream flows through the park, sustaining wildlife

    What is the ESZ Issue

    • 2016 draft ESZ: 268.9 sq km
    • 2020 notification: Reduced to 168.64 sq km
    • Reduction excluded:
      • Key elephant corridors
      • Critical forest buffer zones
    • Resulted in increased pressure from:
      • Real estate expansion
      • Quarrying
      • Industrial activities
    • Heightened human animal conflict near rapidly expanding Bengaluru

    Prelims Pointers

    • Bannerghatta National Park lies in Karnataka near Bengaluru
    • Forms a vital elephant corridor in southern India
    • ESZ reduction occurred in 2020
    • CEC functions under the Supreme Court of India
    • ESZs regulate activities like mining, industries and construction near protected areas
    [2014] With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the following statements is/are correct? 

    1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

    2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities in those zones except agriculture

    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Nuclear Energy

    Greenwald Limit in Fusion Research

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

    Why in the News?

    China’s Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) fusion reactor has achieved stable plasma densities 30 to 65 percent higher than the Greenwald limit, overcoming a decades old constraint in nuclear fusion research.

    About Greenwald Limit

    • The Greenwald limit is a theoretical upper limit on plasma density in a tokamak fusion reactor.
    • It links the maximum stable plasma density to:
      • Plasma current
      • Size of the tokamak
    • Crossing this limit usually causes plasma instability and sudden collapse.

    Why the Greenwald Limit Matters?

    • Nuclear fusion requires:
      • Very high temperature
      • High plasma density
      • Sufficient confinement time
    • The Greenwald limit restricted how much fuel plasma could be packed into a tokamak.
    • It has been a major bottleneck to achieving self sustaining fusion or ignition.

    Prelims Pointers

    • Greenwald limit applies to tokamak fusion reactors
    • Exceeding it traditionally causes plasma instability
    • EAST achieved stable plasma beyond this limit
    • Breakthrough achieved by plasma wall interaction control
    • Important for progress towards fusion ignition and clean energy
    [2016] India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India? 

    (a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation

    (b) It attains a global role in satellite-navigation

    (c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation

    (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation

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  • Air Pollution

    Air Pollution Aerosols Intensify and Prolong Winter Fog Over North India: IIT Madras Study

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

    Why in the News

    A Indian Institute of Technology Madras led study published in Science Advances shows that air pollution aerosols are making winter fog over north India denser and longer lasting, worsening visibility and health impacts.

    About Aerosols

    • Aerosols are tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the atmosphere.
    • They strongly influence air quality, weather and climate.
    • Natural sources: desert dust, sea spray, volcanic ash, forest fires
    • Human sources: vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, biomass burning, coal and diesel use
    • Primary aerosols are emitted directly.
    • Secondary aerosols form in the air from gases like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

    Key Features

    • Extremely small size: penetrate deep into lungs and remain airborne easily
    • Persistence: stay suspended for days to weeks, travel long distances
    • Condensation nuclei: provide surfaces for water vapour to condense, aiding fog and cloud formation
    • Radiative effects:
      • Scatter sunlight: reflective aerosols cool the surface
      • Absorb heat: black carbon warms the atmosphere

    How Aerosols Affect Winter Fog

    • Increase number of fog droplets, making fog thicker
    • Reduce sunlight reaching the surface, causing cooling that sustains fog
    • Slow fog dissipation, leading to prolonged low visibility episodes

    Prelims Pointers

    • Aerosols act as condensation nuclei for fog and clouds
    • Black carbon absorbs heat while sulphate aerosols reflect sunlight
    • Human sources significantly amplify winter fog over north India
    • Aerosols influence health, visibility, weather and climate simultaneously
    [2019] In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere? 

    (a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions 

    (b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones 

    (c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth 

    (d) Reducing the global warming

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