💥UPSC 2026, 2027, 2028 UAP Mentorship (March Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF

Type: Prelims Only

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

    [pib] Hematene Nanoflakes

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Hematene

    Mains level: Not Much

    hematene

    Central Idea

    • Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery of nanoflakes of a material known as hematene, extracted from iron ore.
    • These nanoflakes have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in withstanding and shielding against high laser intensities.

    What is Hematene?

    • Hematene is a novel 2D material that has been derived from hematite (common iron ore).
    • It is a thin, single-layer material with unique properties that make it promising for various applications, especially in the field of optics.
    • Hematene nanoflakes have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in withstanding and shielding against high laser intensities, making them valuable for optical limiting applications.
    • The material’s stability and potential for futuristic technologies have garnered significant interest from researchers and scientists.

    How is it made?

    • Hematene is derived from naturally occurring hematite, the mineral form of iron oxide, through a process involving sonication, centrifugation, and vacuum-assisted filtration.
    • With a thickness of just 3 atoms, it exhibits improved photocatalysis efficiency.
    • Being ferromagnetic, like common magnets, it possesses magnetic properties.
    • Notably, it has the exceptional ability to withstand and provide shielding against high laser intensities.

    Applications of Hematene Nanoflakes

    • Optical Limiting: Hematene nanoflakes have demonstrated exceptional optical limiting capabilities, making them valuable in protecting sensitive optical equipment, such as sensors, detectors, and other optical devices, from high laser intensities.
    • Photodetectors: Hematene’s properties make it suitable for developing high-performance photodetectors, which are used to detect and convert light signals into electrical signals. This application has potential in telecommunications, imaging, and optical communications.
    • Energy Storage: Hematene can be explored for applications in energy storage devices, such as batteries and super-capacitors, due to its unique electronic and electrochemical properties.
    • Optoelectronics: The material’s properties make it suitable for optoelectronic devices, which involve the interaction of light and electricity, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and photovoltaic cells.
    • Photothermal Therapy: Hematene’s ability to withstand and shield against high laser intensities may find applications in photothermal therapy, a medical technique that uses light to treat diseases like cancer.
    • Environmental Applications: Hematene’s stability and potential for use in various environments may make it valuable in environmental applications, such as water purification and pollution control.
    • Sensors: The material’s unique properties may be utilized in developing high-performance sensors for various applications, including gas sensing and environmental monitoring.
    • Catalysts: Hematene’s surface characteristics and electronic properties could be explored for catalytic applications, promoting chemical reactions in various industrial processes.
  • Banking Sector Reforms

    Full-Reserve Banking vs. Fractional-Reserve Banking

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Full-Reserve Banking

    Mains level: Not Much

    bank

    Central Idea

    • Full-reserve banking, also known as 100% reserve banking, and fractional-reserve banking are two different systems of banking that determine how banks handle customer deposits and lending practices.
    • This article discusses the key differences between these two banking systems and the arguments put forth by proponents of each approach.

    What is Full-Reserve Banking?

    • Custodian Role: In a full-reserve banking system, banks hold all money received as demand deposits from customers in their vaults, acting as safekeepers of depositors’ funds.
    • Limited Lending: Banks can only lend money from time deposits, which customers can withdraw after an agreed-upon period.
    • Preventing Bank Runs: The full reserve ensures banks can meet depositor demands even if all customers seek to withdraw their money simultaneously, reducing the risk of a bank run.
    • Restricted Money Supply: Banks cannot create money through loans, limiting their influence on the economy’s money supply and potentially preventing artificial booms and busts.

    Contrary Idea: Fractional-Reserve Banking

    • Lending with Electronic Money: Banks in a fractional-reserve system predominantly lend in the form of electronic money, allowing them to lend more than the physical cash they have in vaults.
    • Risk of Bank Runs: Although electronic money minimizes cash withdrawals, excessive loans can lead to a bank run if depositors demand cash that exceeds the actual cash reserves.
    • Supporting Economic Growth: Proponents argue that fractional-reserve banking fuels investment and economic growth by allowing banks to create loans without relying solely on customer savings.

    Arguments for both systems

    • Fractional-Reserve Banking: Supporters believe fractional-reserve banking frees the economy from the constraints of real savings, stimulating investment and growth.
    • Full-Reserve Banking: Supporters argue that full-reserve banking is more natural, prevents bank runs, and limits banks’ ability to create money, which could prevent economic instability.
  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    What is No-Confidence Motion?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: No-Confidence Motion

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • Opposition parties belonging to the new Alliance INDIA plan to move a no-confidence motion against the government to force the PM to speak on Manipur unrest.

    Motion of No-Confidence

    • In the Indian parliamentary system, a motion of no-confidence plays a crucial role in assessing the government’s strength and accountability.
    • This motion allows opposition parties or any member to express their lack of confidence in the Council of Ministers, leading to a significant political event.

    Procedure for No-Confidence Motion:

    • Rule 198: The procedure for a no-confidence motion is laid down under Rule 198 of the rules of procedure and conduct of the Lok Sabha.
    • Absence of Grounds: Such does not require specific grounds to be mentioned in the motion, and even if mentioned, these grounds do not form part of the motion.
    • Lok Sabha Exclusive: It can only be moved in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha.
    • Written Notice: Any member of the Lok Sabha can move a no-confidence motion by providing a written notice before 10 am.
    • Acceptance and Discussion: For the motion to be accepted, a minimum of 50 members must support it. Once accepted, the Speaker announces the date for the motion’s discussion within 10 days.
    • Voting: Voting can be conducted through a voice vote, division vote (using electronic gadgets, slips, or a ballot box), or a secret ballot vote.

    Implications of Voting

    • Majority Decision: Following the vote, the side with the majority determines the motion’s outcome.
    • Speaker’s Role: In the event of a tie, the Speaker casts the deciding vote to resolve the impasse.

    Outcomes

    • Government Resignation: If the government fails to prove its majority in the House, it is obligated to resign from power.
    • Political Impact: A successful no-confidence motion can lead to significant political changes and reshuffling of the government.

    Try this PYQ:

    Q. Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India:

    1. There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India.
    2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only.

    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

     

    Post your answers here.

  • Censorship Issues – Censor Board, Banning films, etc

    How are films Certified in India?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: CBFC, Film Certification Process

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • Union Information & Broadcasting Minister has expressed displeasure with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over its approval of the Hollywood film “Oppenheimer.”
    • The Minister has reportedly asked officials to remove a particular scene from the movie that has generated controversy on social media.

    Understanding the CBFC

    films

    • Role: The Central Board of Film Certification is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, responsible for regulating the public exhibition of films in India under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
    • Certification Requirement: Films can be screened in India only after receiving certification from the Board.
    • Composition: The CBFC comprises a Chairperson and members appointed by the Central Government. There are nine Regional Offices with Advisory Panels to assist in the examination of films.

    Film Certification Process

    • Examining Committee: After submitting all film materials and requisite fees, a regional officer forms an Examining Committee to view the film. For short films (shorter than 72 minutes), the committee includes a CBFC officer and one advisory panel member, with at least one being a woman. For long films (longer than 72 minutes), at least two committee members must be women.
    • Certification Recommendations: Each committee member provides a written report with their recommendations for modifications and classification of the film.
    • CBFC Decision: The Chairperson reviews the committee’s reports and initiates further procedures based on their recommendations.

    Types of Certifications:

    1. Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U)
    2. Parental Guidance for children below age 12 (U/A)
    3. Adult (A)
    4. Viewing by specialized groups (S)

    Controversies and Appeals

    • Suggested Changes: CBFC may suggest modifications or excisions in the film before granting certification. Applicants dissatisfied with the certification or suggested changes can apply to the Revising Committee.
    • Revising Committee: The Revising Committee consists of the Chairperson and up to nine members from the board and advisory panel.
    • Appellate Tribunal: If disagreements persist, the Appellate Tribunal, an independent body, can be approached.
  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Meri Maati Mera Desh Initiative

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Meri Maati Mera Desh Initiative

    Mains level: NA

    meri maati

    Central Idea

    • The Union government has launched the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign as a grand culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ celebrating 75 years of Indian Independence.

    Meri Maati Mera Desh

    • This initiative aims to honor and commemorate the sacrifices of martyrs.
    • It includes freedom fighters, defense personnel, and members of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and State Police, who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

    Five-Point Agenda

    1. Shilaphalakam Installation: Memorials will be erected, adorned with the names of those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The veers (bravehearts) will be remembered and respected for their immense contribution to the country’s freedom, unity, and integrity.
    2. Pledge of Commitment: A solemn pledge will be taken by people at the memorial sites, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to the nation and its values.
    3. Vasudha Vandhan: Every gram panchayat or village will participate in ‘Vasudha Vandhan’ by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species, rejuvenating Mother Earth, and developing Amrit Vatikas (Eternal Gardens).
    4. Veeron Ka Vandan: Freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters will be honored and felicitated. Retired defense personnel, CAPF, and State Police personnel, along with the families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty, will also receive recognition for their invaluable service to the nation.
    5. National Flag Hoisting: The National Flag will be proudly hoisted, and the National Anthem will resonate in unison, filling the air with patriotism and pride.

    Implementation and Events

    • Events will be organized at various levels, from panchayat and village to block, urban local bodies, state, and national levels.
    • Soil from every panchayat/village will be collected by young volunteers and brought to the block, from where ‘Mitti Kalash’ (pots of soil) will be ceremoniously transported to Delhi.
    • The collected soil will be utilized to create a unique garden, the Amrit Vatika, at the Kartavya Path in Delhi, honoring the heroes of Indian freedom struggle and national integrity.
  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    Excision and Merger of Civil Areas in Cantonments

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cantonments

    Mains level: NA

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has put forward a proposal to excise civil areas in 58 cantonments across the country, intending to merge them with State municipalities.
    • Earlier in May, the centre kicked off a plan to abolish the 62 cantonments around the country as “archaic colonial legacies”.

    What are Cantonments?

    • Definition: Cantonments are permanent military stations where a group of military personnel are stationed for administrative purposes. They are governed by the Cantonments Act, 2006, which provides for municipal administration and control of these areas.
    • Number and Locations: India currently has 62 cantonments spread across various states, with some areas known for their better infrastructure and facilities compared to other parts of the country.
    • Cantonment Boards: Cantonments are managed by Cantonment Boards, which are democratic bodies comprising elected and nominated members. The Station Commander of the Cantonment serves as the ex-officio President of the Board.

    Historical Background

    • The Cantonments Act, 1924, was enacted by the British to regulate the municipal administration of cantonments.
    • After India’s independence, the Cantonments Act was modified to suit the democratic setup of the country.
    • The current Cantonments Act, 2006, replaced the previous version, aiming to provide greater autonomy and accountability to the Cantonment Boards.

    Categories of the erstwhile Cantonments

    Cantonments are categorized based on the population size residing within them:

    1. Category I: Cantonments with a population of over 50,000.
    2. Category II: Cantonments with a population of 10,000 to 50,000.
    3. Category III: Cantonments with a population of less than 10,000.
    4. Category IV: Industrial or training Cantonments, irrespective of their population size.

    Broader plan

    • Conversion to Exclusive Military Stations: Under the plan, military areas within all cantonments will be carved out and designated as “exclusive military stations.” The Army will exercise “absolute control” over these areas, streamlining their administration and operations.
    • Merger with Local Municipalities: The civilian areas of cantonments will be integrated with the respective local municipalities. These municipalities will take up the responsibility of maintaining these areas, along with providing essential services and infrastructure.
    • Move Away from Traditional Cantonment Concept: Post-independence, the Indian Army moved away from the traditional cantonment concept, primarily due to friction between military and civilian authorities. However, certain major cantonments continued to exist, such as Pune Cantonment and Agra Cantonment.
  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS) in India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS)

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    chis

    Central Idea

    • India has taken its first step towards introducing Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS), a research model widely used in other countries for vaccine and treatment development.
    • The Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) Bioethics Unit has prepared a consensus policy statement open for public comment, addressing the need, benefits, and ethical challenges associated with CHIS.

    What is Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS)?

    • CHIS also known as human challenge trials, are scientific studies conducted to deliberately expose healthy human volunteers to infectious agents under controlled conditions.
    • The primary objective of these studies is to gain a better understanding of the pathogens’ behavior, human immune response, and to test potential vaccines, treatments, or preventive measures against the infection.

    Key points about Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS) include:

    1. Informed Consent: Volunteers participating in CHIS must provide informed consent, fully understanding the potential risks and benefits associated with their participation.
    2. Types of Pathogens: CHIS can be used to study various infectious agents, such as viruses (e.g., influenza, dengue, Zika), bacteria (e.g., cholera, typhoid), and parasites (e.g., malaria).
    3. Vaccine Development: CHIS plays a crucial role in vaccine development by providing controlled environments to assess the efficacy of candidate vaccines and their ability to induce protective immune responses.
    4. Controversy: The use of CHIS has sparked ethical debates about balancing potential risks to participants against potential benefits to public health.

    Ethical Concerns Surrounding CHIS in India

    • Delicate Ethical Balance: CHIS is considered ethically sensitive due to concerns about deliberate harm to participants, fair compensation, third-party risks, and withdrawal from the study, and involving vulnerable participants.
    • Streamlined Ethics Review: ICMR acknowledges the need for a specialized ethics review process with additional oversight and safeguards to protect study participants.
    • Deterrents and Unique Context: Technical, clinical, ethical, and legal challenges deterred India from adopting CHIS earlier, partly influenced by the nation’s unique socio-cultural context.

    Potential Benefits of CHIS in India

    • High Disease Burden: India faces a significant burden of morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases, contributing about 30% of the disease burden in the country.
    • Novel Insights and Efficiency: CHIS offers unique insights into disease pathogenesis and enables accelerated and cost-effective outcomes with smaller sample sizes compared to large clinical trials.
    • Social Value: CHIS can contribute to public health response, healthcare decision-making, policies, economic benefits, improved pandemic preparedness, and community empowerment.

    Encouraging Collaboration and Expertise

    • Complex Nature of CHIS: ICMR highlights the complexity of CHIS and suggests that collaborations between researchers, institutions, organizations, and countries may be necessary to ensure the right expertise is available.
    • Crucial Role in Advancing Scientific Understanding: The ICMR Bioethics Unit’s consensus policy statement aims to address ethical concerns associated with CHIS, acknowledging its potential role in advancing the scientific understanding of infectious diseases and accelerating treatment strategies.

    Public Consultation and Future Directions

    • Open for Public Consultation: The ICMR’s consensus policy statement on CHIS is open for public consultation until August 16 to gather input from stakeholders and experts.
    • Striving for Ethical Research: ICMR emphasizes its commitment to conduct CHIS in India while ensuring ethical principles are upheld and human participants are protected.

    Conclusion

    • The introduction of CHIS in India is a significant step towards advancing medical research and finding cost-effective solutions for infectious diseases.
    • Public consultation and expert collaborations will help shape the future direction of CHIS research in India and contribute to scientific progress and improved healthcare outcomes.
  • Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

    National Broadcasting Day 2023: How the Radio came to India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Broadcasting Day , AIR, Usha Mehta

    Mains level: NA

    radio

    Central Idea

    • This July 23, commemorated 100 years of radio broadcast in India.
    • All India Radio (AIR) started broadcasting in 1923 via 2 private stations called the Radio Club of Bombay and Calcutta Radio Club.

    Facts for Prelims: Usha Mehta’s Secret Radio

    usha mehta radio

    • On August 8, 1942, the historic Quit India Resolution was passed during the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay.
    • In this response, the idea of an underground radio station, known by various names such as the Freedom Radio, the Ghost Radio, or the Congress Radio, was conceived to counter the British-controlled AIR.
    • Usha Mehta, a 22 YO master’s student at Wilson College, became the voice of the Congress Radio.
    • The radio was an expensive endeavour, but funds were procured through various means, including contributions from Mehta’s colleague, Babubhai Khakhar.
    • Radio engineering expert Nariman Abarbad Printer constructed the Congress Radio transmission set.
    • Their first broadcast was on 14 August 1942.
    • Welcome line in her voice: “This is the Congress Radio calling on 42.34 from somewhere in India.”
    • In the beginning, they were broadcasting twice a day, in Hindi and English. But they reduced it to just once in the evening between 7.30 and 8.30 pm.
    • On 12th November 1942, the police raided the radio while Vande Mataram was being played and arrested Mehta and others.
    • Mehta was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours in 1998.

    About All India Radio

    • On July 23, 1927, the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) was formed, but it faced liquidation within three years.
    • To revive the IBC, Lionel Fielden, a BBC producer, was appointed as the first Controller of Broadcasting in August 1935.
    • In June 1936, the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) transformed into All India Radio.
    • In August 1937, it became the Central News Organisation (CNO) under the Department of Information and Broadcasting.

    Expansion and Name Change

    • In 1947, India had six radio stations, covering 2.5% of the area and 11% of the population. Pakistan had three radio stations.
    • In 1956, the name “AKASHVANI” was adopted as the National Broadcaster, used interchangeably with AIR, primarily for Hindi broadcasting.
    • The famous jingle of AIR was composed by Walter Kaufmann, who joined AIR in 1937 and significantly contributed to Indian music.

    Current Status of AIR

    • Today, AIR has a network of around 260 radio stations, covering nearly 92% of the country’s total area and serving almost the entire population.
    • It broadcasts in 23 languages and 146 dialects, making it a broadcasting giant in India.

    Controversies

    • Vividh Bharati Service: Launched in 1957, it included popular film music as a major component.
    • BV Keskar’s Ban on Film Music: In 1952, AIR imposed a ban on film music, causing Radio Ceylon to gain popularity among Hindi film music enthusiasts with shows like Geetmala.
    • Film Industry’s Response: The film industry withdrew music rights from AIR, leading to the absence of film music on the radio.
  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Donanemab: A promising drug for Alzheimer’s

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Donanemab

    Mains level: Not Much

    Donanemab

    Central Idea

    • Donanemab, a drug in trials has shown significant potential in slowing cognitive decline in individuals with early Alzheimer’s.

    What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

    • Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible neurological disorder.
    • Beta-amyloid, a protein that is crucial for brain function, turns toxic in Alzheimer’s patients, forming clumps that disrupt brain cell connections, leading to cognitive issues like memory loss.
    • These protein deposits disrupt communication between neurons, leading to their deterioration and death.
    • Early signs include forgetfulness, difficulty finding words, problem-solving challenges, confusion, and disorientation.
    • The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully understood but is believed to involve genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
    • Family history, genetic mutations, head injuries, cardiovascular disease, and certain lifestyle factors are also risk factors.

    Donanemab: An antedote

    • Development: Donanemab is a drug developed by Eli Lilly and aims to treat individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Targeting Amyloid Plaques: The drug targets a common hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease: amyloid plaques in the brain.

    Breakthrough in Slowing Cognitive Decline

    • Alarming Burden: With an estimated 14 million cases of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, expected in India by 2050, the need for effective treatments is urgent.
    • Phase III Trial: In a phase III trial, Donanemab demonstrated promising results, slowing cognitive decline by 35% compared to a placebo.
    • Significance: This marks a significant milestone in Alzheimer’s research, as it is the second drug, within a year, to show effectiveness in checking cognitive decline in early-stage Alzheimer’s patients.
    • Limitations: It is essential to note that Donanemab and the previous drug do not stop or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. However, slowing cognitive decline can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.
  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Adjournment Motion in Indian Parliament

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Adjournment motion

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • During the monsoon Session of Parliament, Opposition parties demanded discussions on alleged sexual assaults in Manipur and ongoing ethnic violence.
    • Many MPs moved adjournment motions, leading to the Lok Sabha’s adjournment.

    Let’s explore the various motions raised in Indian Parliament and their significance.

    (A) Short Duration Discussion (Rule 193)

    • Applicability: This procedure is available in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: A short-duration discussion can take place when the Chairman or Speaker believes that a matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance. The discussion can last for a maximum of two and a half hours.

    (B) Motion with a Vote (Rule 184)

    • Applicability: This motion is relevant in Lok Sabha.
    • Description: If a motion meets certain conditions, such as not containing defamatory statements, being on a matter of recent occurrence, and not being pending before any statutory authority or court of enquiry, it can be admitted. The Speaker can then allocate a time period for the discussion. This type of motion involves a vote to determine Parliament’s position on the issue and requires the government to follow Parliament’s decision.

    (C) Adjournment Motion

    • Applicability: The adjournment motion is relevant only in Lok Sabha and is not available in Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: An adjournment motion is moved to discuss a “definite matter of urgent public importance” with the Speaker’s consent. The notice for this motion must be given before 10 AM on a given day to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General. The motion must meet specific criteria to be admitted. The passage of an adjournment motion does not require the government to resign but is seen as a strong censure of the government.