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Type: Prelims Only

  • Waste Management – SWM Rules, EWM Rules, etc

    NAMASTE Scheme and Waste Pickers Enumeration Data 2026

    Prelims Only | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies,Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment tabled data in Parliament on February 03, 2026 revealing the social profile of 1.52 lakh waste pickers enumerated under the NAMASTE Scheme across 35 States and Union Territories.

    Social Category Breakup

    • Scheduled Castes: 60.3 percent or 92,089
    • Scheduled Tribes: 10.5 percent or 16,077
    • Other Backward Classes: 13.7 percent or 20,954
    • General category: 10.7% or 16,329 workers

    State and UT Level  

    • Delhi and Goa show majority of waste pickers from General category
    • In Delhi, 4,289 of over 6,500 workers were from General category (65.9%)
    • In Goa, 729 of 1,286 workers were from General category (56.6%)
    • West Bengal recorded 42.4 percent General category waste pickers

    Related Data on Sanitation Workers

    • About 89,000 sewer and septic tank workers enumerated so far
    • 95.8 percent of them are men
    • 859 deaths reported due to hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning since 2014
    • 43 deaths recorded in 2025 alone

    About NAMASTE Scheme

    • Implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
    • Focuses on enumeration and formal recognition of waste pickers, sewer and septic tank workers
    • Provides protective equipment and safety measures
    • Aims to eradicate deaths due to hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning
    [2016] ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to: (a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood 

    (b) release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood 

    (c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers 

    (d) release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them

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  • Indian Air Force Updates

    Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) Technology Test 2026

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

    Why in the News?

    Defence Research & Development Organisation successfully demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology on February 03, 2026 from Integrated Test Range, marking India’s entry into an elite group of nations with this advanced missile propulsion capability.

    About Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)

    • An advanced air breathing propulsion system for long range air to air missiles
    • Uses solid fuel with controlled airflow for sustained thrust
    • Allows missiles to maintain high speed during terminal phase
    • Significantly increases range and no escape zone

    Key Highlights of the Test

    • All subsystems including nozzle less booster, SFDR motor and fuel flow controller performed as expected
    • Missile was boosted to the required Mach number before ramjet ignition
    • Performance validated through tracking instruments along the coast of the Bay of Bengal
    • Successful data capture confirmed stable combustion and thrust control

    Strategic Significance

    • Enables development of next generation long range air to air missiles
    • Provides major tactical advantage against hostile aircraft
    • Strengthens indigenous defence research and manufacturing
    • Reduces dependence on imported propulsion technologies
    [2023] Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight

    2. 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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  • Interstate River Water Dispute

    Pennaiyar River Inter State Water Dispute

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure,Seperation Of Power

    Why in the news?

    The Supreme Court of India has directed the Union Government to constitute an Inter State River Water Disputes Tribunal within one month to resolve the Pennaiyar water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The case was filed by Tamil Nadu under Article 131 of the Constitution, invoking the Inter State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.

    About Pennaiyar River

    • Also known as Thenpennai / Ponnaiyar in Tamil and Dakshina Pinakini in Kannada
    • A major east flowing inter state river of southern India
    • Crucial for irrigation, drinking water, and water security

    Origin

    • Originates in the Nandi Hills, Chikkaballapura district, Karnataka
    • Part of the Eastern Ghats system

    States Through Which It Flows

    • Karnataka as the upper riparian state
    • Tamil Nadu as the lower riparian state
    • Tamil Nadu is more dependent on downstream flows, making the dispute politically and economically sensitive

    Major Tributaries

    • Markandeya River
    • Varaha Nadhi
    • Pambar River
    • Pampar River
    • Markandeya River is central to the present inter state dispute
    [2014] The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its: (a) advisory jurisdiction 

    (b) appellate jurisdiction 

    (c) original jurisdiction 

    (d) writ jurisdiction

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  • Banking Sector Reforms

    SBI launches CHAKRA for financing sunrise sectors

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the News?

    The State Bank of India (SBI) has launched CHAKRA, a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to finance eight sunrise sectors critical for India’s sustainable and technology led growth.

    What is CHAKRA?

    • CHAKRA stands for Centre of Excellence for financing sunrise sectors
    • An institutional platform by SBI to build sector specific expertise
    • Aims to improve flow of capital, risk assessment, and innovative financing
    • Focus on capital intensive, future oriented industries

    Sunrise Sectors Covered

    • Renewable Energy (RE)
    • Advanced Cell Chemistry and Battery Storage
    • Data Centre Infrastructure
    • Smart Infrastructure
    • Electric Mobility
    • Green Hydrogen
    • Semiconductors
    • Decarbonisation

    Investment Significance

    • These sectors together require nearly Rs 100 lakh crore investment over five years
    • Expected to be key drivers of India’s economic future

    Key Features of CHAKRA

    • Supports specialised project financing structures
    • Strengthens risk evaluation for emerging technologies
    • Facilitates co financing and foreign capital inflows
    • Enables engagement with DFIs, multilateral agencies, banks, NBFCs, start ups, academia, and policy think tanks

    International and Institutional Partnerships

    • SBI has signed MoUs with around 21 financing institutions
    • Project finance teams to be co located at SBI CHAKRA
    • Major foreign partners include MUFG and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
    • Helps mobilise international debt capital and expertise
    [2023] With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements: 1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion. 

    2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation. 

    3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.

    How many of the above statements are correct? 

    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None

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  • Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

    Indian Scientists Develop Single Unit Solar Energy Capture and Storage Device

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

    Why in the News?

    Indian scientists under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have developed a photo rechargeable supercapacitor that can both capture and store solar energy in a single integrated unit, enabling low cost, self sustaining, and clean energy systems.

    About the Device

    • Known as a Photo Rechargeable Supercapacitor
    • Integrates solar energy harvesting and energy storage
    • Eliminates separate solar panels and batteries
    • Reduces energy loss, cost, and system complexity

    Developed By

    • Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru
    • Developed under the Department of Science and Technology

    Key Technology Used

    • Binder free Nickel Cobalt Oxide (NiCo₂O₄) nanowires
    • Uniformly grown on nickel foam
    • Fabricated using in situ hydrothermal process
    • Forms a porous, conductive three dimensional network
    • Acts as both solar absorber and supercapacitor electrode
    [2014] With reference to technology for solar power production, consider the following statements: 

    1. ‘Photovoltaics’ is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while ‘Solar Thermal’ is a technology that utilizes the Sun’s rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process. 

    2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC). 

    3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for photovoltaics. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) None of the above

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  • Wetland Conservation

    Wetlands as a National Public Good

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

    Why in the News?

    India marked World Wetlands Day under the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge”, and on the occasion added two new Ramsar sites—Patna Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat—taking the country’s total Ramsar sites to 98.

    What are Wetlands?

    Wetlands are areas of land saturated with water either permanently or seasonally. They include lakes, ponds, marshes, floodplains, mangroves, lagoons, peatlands and man made systems like tanks and kulams.

    Key Facts and Significance

    • India has lost nearly 40 percent of its wetlands in the last three decades
    • Around 50 percent of remaining wetlands show ecological degradation
    • Wetlands act as natural flood buffers, groundwater recharge zones and water purifiers
    • They support biodiversity, fisheries, agriculture and local livelihoods
    • Coastal wetlands like mangroves reduce cyclone and storm surge impacts

    Policy and Institutional Framework

    • Wetlands Conservation and Management Rules, 2017 provide legal framework for identification, notification and protection
    • National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems focuses on planning, monitoring and outcome based restoration
    • Coastal Regulation Zone framework protects coastal wetlands
    • Ramsar designation under the Ramsar Convention gives global recognition and conservation responsibility
    • India has 98 Ramsar sites, highest in South Asia
    [2022] If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys.” Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement? (a) The water cycle in wetlands involves surface runoff, subsoil percolation and evaporation. 

    (b) Algae form the nutrient base upon which fish, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, reptiles and mammals thrive. 

    (c) Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilisation. 

    (d) Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients.

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  • Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

    Rare Earth Corridors in Coastal States

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth,Government Budgeting

    Why in the News?

    In Union Budget 2026-27, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of dedicated Rare Earth Corridors in the coastal states of Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to strengthen India’s critical minerals and advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

    What are Rare Earth Corridors?

    • State focused industrial corridors for Mining, Processing, Research andManufacturing of rare earth elements
    • Aim to integrate upstream mining with downstream value addition
    • Anchored in mineral rich coastal regions with Beach Sand Minerals

    Rare Earths in Indian Context

    • Principal source: Beach Sand Minerals (BSM)
    • Key mineral present: Monazite
      • A phosphate mineral
      • Contains Uranium and Thorium
    • Coastal states have rich deposits capable of producing rare earths like Neodymium and Praseodymium

    Link with Rare Earth Magnet Manufacturing Scheme

    • Corridors align with the scheme for Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets
    • Financial outlay: Rs 7,280 crore
    • Target capacity:
      • 6,000 metric tonnes per annum
      • 5 beneficiaries selected via competitive bidding
      • Up to 1,200 MTPA per beneficiary
    • Incentives:
      • Rs 6,450 crore sales linked incentive over 5 years
      • Rs 750 crore capital subsidy

    Why Rare Earth Permanent Magnets Matter

    • Critical for: Electric vehicles, Wind turbines and renewable energy, Electronics and Aerospace and defence.
    • Global concentration: China controls over 90 percent of processing and magnet manufacturing
    • India imported over 53,000 metric tonnes of rare earth magnets in FY 2024-25
    • Domestic demand expected to double by 2030
    [2022] With reference to India, consider the following statements: 1. Monazite is a source of rare earths

    2. Monazite contains thorium

    3. Monazite occurs naturally in the entire Indian coastal sands in India

    4. In India, Government bodies only can process or export monazite

    Which of the statements given above are correct? 

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

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    India gives 20 year tax holiday to foreign firms using local data centres 

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

    Why in the News?

    In Union Budget 2026–27, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a 20 year tax holiday till 2047 for foreign companies that provide global cloud services using data centres located in India, to boost India’s position as a global data and digital services hub.

    What is the Announcement?

    • Foreign companies offering cloud and digital services globally
    • Using data centres physically located in India
    • Will not be taxed on global income arising from such services
    • Tax holiday applicable till the year 2047

    Key Benefits

    • Provides long term tax clarity and stability
    • Encourages hyperscalers to locate data storage and processing in India
    • Boosts employment, energy infrastructure and allied services
    • Strengthens India’s role in cloud computing, AI and digital trade

    Investments in Focus

    • Google plans 15 billion dollar investment in AI data centres in Andhra Pradesh
    • Microsoft and Amazon have invested billions in Indian data centres
    • Indian conglomerates like Reliance Industries and Adani Group are also major players

    Government View

    • IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that data centres will become a major strength for India in providing digital services to the world
    [2018] With reference to India’s decision to levy an equalization tax of 6% on online advertisement services offered by non-resident entities, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is introduced as a part of the Income Tax Act

    2. Non-resident entities that offer advertisement services in India can claim a tax credit in their home country under the “Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements”

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

    Obesity in India and Budget 2026 Expectations  

    Prelims Only | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    India has emerged as the third most obese country in the world after the US and China, according to the World Obesity Federation. The Economic Survey 2026 flagged obesity as a rising public health challenge across age groups, raising expectations from Union Budget 2026 to make healthy living affordable.

    Key Findings on Obesity in India

    • Global ranking: India is the third most obese country globally
    • Social spread:
      • 76 percent Indians report at least one obese person in their close social circle
      • 42 percent report four or more obese individuals around them
    • Associated diseases:
      • 56 percent obese individuals also suffer from lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, fatty liver

    Causes of Rising Obesity

    • Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
    • High consumption of fatty and ultra processed foods
    • Urbanisation and screen based work culture
    • Poor dietary diversity and nutrition awareness

    Official Data  

    • National Family Health Survey 5:Overweight or obese adults:
      • Women: 24 percent
      • Men: 23 percent
      • Children under 5 with excess weight: Increased from 2.1 percent (2015–16) to 3.4 percent (2019–21)

    Health Implications

    • Higher risk of non communicable diseases like: Diabetes, Heart disease and Hypertension
    • Increased long term healthcare burden
    • Reduced productivity and quality of life

    Budget 2026 Expectations

    Citizens expect Budget 2026 to:

    • Reduce taxes on healthy food options
    • Improve affordability of fitness and preventive healthcare services
    • Discourage consumption of ultra processed foods through fiscal measures
    • Promote lifestyle based prevention over drug dependent solutions
    [2017] Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’? 1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers

    2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women

    3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice

    4. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs

    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

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

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  • Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

    Biopharma Shakti Mission 

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Government Budgeting,Indian Economy

    Why in the News?

    In Union Budget 2026, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Biopharma Shakti Mission with an outlay of Rs 10,000 crore to make India a global hub for biologics and biosimilars.

    What is Biopharma Shakti Mission?

    A flagship mission to build a complete ecosystem for domestic manufacturing, clinical trials, and regulatory capacity in complex biological drugs.

    Key Features

    • Financial outlay: Rs 10,000 crore over 5 years
    • Focus areas: Biologics and biosimilars for NCDs like diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disorders
    • Infrastructure push:
      • 3 new NIPERs to be set up
      • 7 existing NIPERs to be upgraded
    • Clinical trials:
      • Network of 1,000 accredited clinical trial sites
      • Aims to capture a share of the global clinical trials market
    • Regulatory strengthening:
      • Capacity enhancement of Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation
      • Creation of a dedicated scientific review cadre
      • Alignment with global drug approval timelines

    Significance

    • Supports India’s transition from small molecule generics to next generation biologics
    • Addresses rising non communicable disease burden
    • Improves affordable access to advanced therapies
    • Boosts export competitiveness and global trust in Indian pharma

    Institutions in Focus

    • National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
    • CDSCO as the national drug regulator aligned to global standards
    [2025] With reference to monoclonal antibodies, consider the following: 1. They are man-made proteins

    2. They stimulate the patient’s immune system to fight the specific disease

    3. They are produced using animal cells only

    Which of the statements given above are correct? 

    (a) I and II only (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) All the three

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