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

Type: Prelims Only

  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Solar Shooting Stars: Discovering Fiery Rain on the Sun

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Solar Shooting Stars

    Mains level: Not Much

    shooting star

    Central Idea

    • Astronomers have made a remarkable discovery of meteor-like streaks on the surface of the Sun, differentiating them from the shooting stars witnessed on Earth.
    • These solar shooting stars, observed during a phenomenon known as coronal rain, offer valuable insights into the Sun’s complex dynamics.

    Observing Coronal Rain and Solar Shooting Stars

    • Distinction from Earthly Shooting Stars: While shooting stars on Earth are space rocks or dust fragments burning up in our atmosphere, solar shooting stars occur within coronal rain phenomena.
    • Coronal Rain: Coronal rain is a condensation process involving extremely hot material from the Sun’s corona. It forms dense clumps of plasma, which plummet back to the Sun’s surface due to its immense gravity.
    • European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter (SolO): The SolO spacecraft provided valuable observations of solar shooting stars, capturing high-resolution images and monitoring the heating and compression of gas beneath them.

    Characteristics of such Stars

    • Findings: The Solar Orbiter observed the impacts of solar shooting stars for the first time, revealing intense bursts of brightness, upward movement of stellar material, and shock waves that heat up the Sun’s corona.
    • Unique Features: Unlike Earthly shooting stars, solar shooting stars lack bright tails due to powerful magnetic fields in the Sun’s corona stripping gas from the falling clumps.
    • Challenging Observations: The magnetic fields’ influence makes the observation of solar meteors challenging, and their true nature remained unknown until these recent observations.

    Insights and Implications

    • Solving the Corona Mystery: Scientists believe that the discovery of solar shooting stars could help explain why the corona, the Sun’s outermost atmosphere, is hotter than the layers beneath it. This puzzles astronomers, as conventional solar models predict increasing temperatures closer to the Sun’s core.
    • Coronal Rain Formation: Coronal rains are formed by localized temperature drops, causing solar plasma to condense into dense lumps that fall to the Sun’s cooler surface, known as the photosphere, at speeds up to 220,000 miles per hour.
    • Proximity of Observation: The Solar Orbiter’s close distance of 30 million miles from the Sun allowed for detailed observations of these phenomena, closer than the orbit of Mercury.
  • Indian Army Updates

    [pib] Exercise SALVEX

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Exercise SALVEX

    Mains level: NA

    Central Idea

    • The Indian Navy and the US Navy recently concluded the seventh edition of the Salvage and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) exercise, known as SALVEX.

    Exercise SALVEX

    • Since its inception in 2005, SALVEX has facilitated the exchange of expertise and the enhancement of capabilities in maritime salvage and EOD operations.
    • The IN-USN SALVEX exercise has become a cornerstone of bilateral naval cooperation between India and the United States, fostering mutual trust and collaboration.
    • The exercise featured the participation of INS Nireekshak and USNS Salvor, along with Specialist Diving and EOD teams from both navies.

    Key outcomes

    • Shared Learning on Maritime Salvage: The Diving teams from both countries engaged in the exchange of experiences, lessons, and best practices in maritime salvage operations.
    • Training Synergies on EOD Operations: The exercise provided an ideal platform for joint training exercises, allowing divers and EOD teams to enhance their interoperability and refine their skills.
    • Mastery of Mine Detection and Neutralization: The participating divers received comprehensive training in the detection and neutralization of mines, enabling them to mitigate potential threats in underwater environments.
    • Efficient Wreck Location and Salvage Techniques: The exercise focused on honing the teams’ abilities to locate and salvage wrecks, a critical skill for ensuring safe navigation and effective disaster response.
  • Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

    Annapurti: The grain ATM

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Annapurti

    Mains level: Not Much

    annapurti

    Central Idea

    • The recent demonstration of the Automated Multi-Commodity Grain Dispensing Machine, Annapurti, during the ‘National Conference of Food Ministers of States/UTs,’ showcased an innovative solution developed by the World Food Programme (WFP) India.

    What is Annapurti?

    • Annapurti, also known as the Grain ATM, offers a fast, clean, and precise method of providing subsidized grains to beneficiaries through the Public Distribution System.
    • Developed by WFP India, it is an automated multi-commodity dispensing solution that ensures efficient access to commodities like rice, wheat, and grains.
    • Beneficiaries can securely access their entitlements through Annapurti following biometric authentication.

    Key Features

    • Annapurti offers 24×7 access to full entitlements, eliminating spillage, waste, and inaccurate weighing.
    • The machine can dispense one or two grain commodities, up to 50 kilograms, within five minutes, with a minimal error rate of 0.01 percent.

    Advantages and Potential Applications

    (1) Ensuring Food Security:

    • Annapurti has significant potential for food-based safety nets, ensuring beneficiaries receive their monthly subsidized grains promptly.
    • The machine’s precision and reliability prevent losses and ensure individuals receive their entitled portions.

    (2) Emergency Food Grain Distribution:

    • During emergencies, such as natural disasters or humanitarian crises, Annapurti can facilitate efficient and timely distribution of food grains to affected populations.
    • Its automated system streamlines the process, reducing dependency on manual labor and minimizing errors.

    (3) Market Access for Smallholder Farmers:

    • Annapurti can play a crucial role in expanding market access for smallholder farmers.
    • By offering a reliable and efficient distribution channel, farmers can sell their produce directly to Annapurti, ensuring fair prices and reducing intermediaries.

    Sustainable and Modular Design

    (1) Energy Efficiency:

    • Annapurti is designed to prioritize food security while ensuring efficient energy consumption.
    • With a consumption rate of only 0.6 Watt per hour, it offers an environmentally friendly solution.

    (2) Modular Design:

    • Annapurti’s modular design allows for flexibility and scalability based on available space.
    • The storage unit and components can be easily assembled and customized to suit different requirements.

    (3) Integration with Renewable Energy:

    • Annapurti can be integrated with solar panels, inverter batteries, and elevators for automatic refilling.
    • This integration enhances the sustainability of the system by reducing dependency on conventional energy sources.

     

  • Judicial Appointments Conundrum Post-NJAC Verdict

    SC Collegium proposes new CJs to 7 High Courts

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Collegium system, NJAC

    Mains level: Not Much

    collegium

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice of India D. Y. Chandrachud, has recommended new Chief Justices for seven major High Courts in India.
    • The recommendations focus on criteria such as seniority, regional representation, and gender diversity.

    What is Collegium System?

    • The Collegium of judges is the Indian Supreme Court’s invention.
    • It does not figure in the Constitution, which says judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts are appointed by the President and speaks of a process of consultation.
    • In effect, it is a system under which judges are appointed by an institution comprising judges.
    • After some judges were superseded in the appointment of the CJI in the 1970s, and attempts made subsequently to effect a mass transfer of High Court judges across the country.
    • Hence there was a perception that the independence of the judiciary was under threat. This resulted in a series of cases over the years.

    Evolution: The Judges Cases

    • First Judges Case (1981) ruled that the “consultation” with the CJI in the matter of appointments must be full and effective.
    • However, it rejected the idea that the CJI’s opinion, albeit carrying great weight, should have primacy.
    • Second Judges Case (1993) introduced the Collegium system, holding that “consultation” really meant “concurrence”.
    • It added that it was not the CJI’s individual opinion, but an institutional opinion formed in consultation with the two senior-most judges in the Supreme Court.
    • Third Judges Case (1998): On a Presidential Reference for its opinion, the Supreme Court, in the Third Judges Case (1998) expanded the Collegium to a five-member body, comprising the CJI and four of his senior-most colleagues.

    Functions of the Collegium

    (1) Appointment of CJI

    • The President of India appoints the CJI and other Supreme Court judges.
    • The outgoing CJI recommends his successor, and the appointment is typically made based on seniority, following the controversy of the 1970s.
    • The Union Law Minister forwards the recommendation to the Prime Minister, who then advises the President on the appointment.

    (2) Appointment of Other SC Judges

    • The proposal for appointing other judges to the Supreme Court is initiated by the CJI.
    • The CJI consults other members of the Collegium, as well as the senior-most judge from the High Court to which the recommended person belongs.
    • The opinions of the consultees must be recorded in writing and included in the file.
    • The Collegium sends the recommendation to the Law Minister, who forwards it to the Prime Minister for the President’s advice.

    (3) Appointment of High Court Judges

    • Chief Justices (CJs) of High Courts are appointed based on the policy of having Chief Justices from outside the respective states. The Collegium makes the final decision on their elevation.
    • The appointment of High Court judges is recommended by a Collegium consisting of the CJI and two senior-most judges.
    • The Chief Justice of the High Court concerned initiates the proposal in consultation with two senior-most colleagues.
    • The recommendation is then sent to the Chief Minister, who advises the Governor to forward the proposal to the Union Law Minister.

    (4) Transfer Recommendations by the Collegium

    • The Collegium is also responsible for recommending transfers of Chief Justices and other judges.
    • Article 222 of the Constitution allows for the transfer of judges from one High Court to another.
    • When a Chief Justice is transferred, a replacement must be simultaneously appointed for the concerned High Court. An acting Chief Justice can be appointed for a maximum of one month.
    • In transfer matters, the CJI’s opinion is determinative, and the consent of the judge being transferred is not required.
    • However, the CJI should consider the views of the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court and one or more Supreme Court judges who are in a position to provide their opinions.
    • All transfers must be made in the public interest, aiming for the betterment of the administration of justice.

     

  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Kanwar Yatra: What is it?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Kanwar Yatra

    Mains level: NA

    kanwar yatra

    Central Idea: The Kanwar Yatra, a significant annual pilgrimage, commenced on July 4 and will continue until July 15.

    What is Kanwar Yatra?

    • This pilgrimage sees millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas or Kriyas, undertaking a journey to collect water from the Ganga River and offer it to Lord Shiva.
    • The Kanwar Yatra symbolizes the unbreakable bond between devotees and Lord Shiva and is considered an act of faith and devotion.

    Mythological Origins of Kanwar Yatra

    • Samudra Manthan: Kanwar Yatra is believed to have originated from the mythological story of Samudra Manthan, where Lord Shiva consumed poison to save the world. To alleviate the effects of the poison, all the gods poured water from the Ganga River on Lord Shiva.
    • King Rama’s Offering: Another version suggests that the ritual of Kanwar Yatra began when King Ram offered water from the Ganga to a statue of Lord Shiva (shivalinga) in an earthen pot.

    Customs and Rituals Performed

    • Collection of Ganga Water: Devotees, dressed in saffron attire, embark on foot to collect water from the Ganga River at Haridwar, Gomukh, and Gangotri. They carry two earthen pots filled with water, hung on a decorated bamboo stick, which they balance on their shoulders.
    • Significance of Purity: Devotees consider it essential to keep the pots from touching the ground or getting contaminated by dust, as it may impure the sacred water.
    • Challenging Journey: Kanwariyas undertake the yatra barefoot, covering long distances in challenging terrains and extreme weather conditions.
  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    Tomato Crop affected by different Mosiac Viruses

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Mosaic Viruses

    Mains level: NA

    tomato mosiac

    Central Idea

    • Tomato growers in Maharashtra and Karnataka have reported significant yield losses due to the impact of two different Mosiac Viruses.
    • The cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) has affected tomato crops in Maharashtra, while the tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) has been blamed for crop losses in Karnataka and other South Indian states.

     

    Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV)

    Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV)

    Target Plants Various plants, including cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and ornamentals Plants in the Solanaceae family, including tobacco, tomatoes, peppers, etc.
    Transmission Aphids, seeds, mechanical contact, infected plant debris Direct contact, mechanical transmission, contaminated plant material
    Symptoms Mosaic patterns, yellowing, stunted growth, leaf curling, distorted fruits or flowers Mosaic patterns, yellowing, leaf curling, stunted growth
    Impact on Crops Reduced yield and quality Reduced yield, impact on flavor and quality
    Longevity Not specified Long-term viability in dried plant debris, tobacco products, contaminated surfaces
    Control Measures Vector control, seed selection, crop rotation Crop rotation, sanitation, virus-free seeds/seedlings, cultural practices
    Curability No cure, management focuses on prevention No cure, management focuses on prevention

     

    Impact on Tomato Crops

    • Symptoms of ToMV: Infected plants exhibit alternating yellowish and dark green areas, blisters on leaves, leaf distortion, twisting of younger leaves, necrotic spots on fruits, and reduced fruit setting.
    • Symptoms of CMV: Leaf distortion, with top and bottom leaves most affected, mosaic-like patterns of yellow and green spots in cucumber, fruit deformation, and reduced production in tomato.

    Control Measures

    • ToMV: Ensuring biosafety standards in nurseries, seed treatment, careful inspection of saplings before planting, continuous monitoring for infection, and removal of infected plants are crucial.
    • CMV: Due to its wide host range, controlling aphids becomes essential. Measures include spraying quick-acting insecticides or mineral oils, monitoring aphid migration, and clearing fields of weeds and plant material that may harbor the virus.

     

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    What is Ambergris?

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Ambergris

    Mains level: NA

    amber

    Central Idea

    • The discovery of a sperm whale carcass on the shore of the Canary Island of La Palma has led to an extraordinary find.
    • During the post-mortem examination, a pathologist found ambergris, a highly valuable substance often referred to as “floating gold,” stuck in the whale’s colon.
    • The estimated worth of the retrieved lump of ambergris is around €500,000 (Rs 4,47,62,500).

    What is Ambergris?

    • Origin: Ambergris is a waxy substance formed in the digestive system of protected sperm whales.
    • Formation: One theory suggests that ambergris is produced in the gastrointestinal tract of sperm whales to aid the passage of hard objects ingested during feeding.
    • Appearance and Odour: Freshly passed ambergris is light yellowish and fatty, but it ages and turns waxy, taking on red-brownish colors. It possesses a mild, earthy, sweet smell with hints of marine odor.

    Uses and Rarity of Ambergris

    • Perfume Industry: Traditionally, ambergris is used in the production of perfumes, adding a musky note.
    • Historical Uses: In the past, ambergris was utilized to flavor food, alcoholic beverages, and tobacco in certain cultures.
    • Rarity and Value: Ambergris is a scarce substance, contributing to its high demand and significant price in the international market.

    Legal Restrictions in India

    • Wildlife Protection Act: Sperm whales, the source of ambergris, are a protected species under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act in India.
    • Illegal Possession and Trade: The possession and trade of ambergris and its by-products, including in India, are prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
    • Smuggling and Trade Routes: Smuggling networks involved in ambergris trade often procure the substance from coastal areas in India and transport it through countries with comparatively less stringent sea trade regulations.
  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-SCO

    Iran Joins Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: SCO

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • Prime Minister Modi welcomed Iran as the newest member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during the virtual summit of the grouping.
    • Iran’s membership has been discussed for years, and recent geopolitical shifts have made it more relevant.

    About SCO

    • The SCO, formed in 2001, aims to enhance regional cooperation in combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism in Central Asia.

    Expansion of the SCO

    • Previous membership: The SCO consisted of eight member countries, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and the Central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
    • Observer and Dialogue Partner status: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia have Observer status, while Azerbaijan, Armenia, Cambodia, Nepal, Turkey, and Sri Lanka hold Dialogue Partner status.

    Importance of Iran’s Membership

    • Nuclear deal context: After signing the nuclear deal (JCPOA) in 2015, Iran’s path to SCO membership was facilitated.
    • Changing geopolitical landscape: The US withdrawal from Afghanistan has created opportunities for increased Chinese influence in the region.
    • Expanding alliances: Iran has sought to establish closer ties beyond its traditional ally Russia, including reaching out to Saudi Arabia and opening a border market with Pakistan.

    Geopolitical Implications

    • China’s interests: Iran’s energy resources and cooperation in areas like oil are beneficial to China as it seeks to counter the US.
    • Russia’s alliances: Russia aims to strengthen its position by building alliances within the SCO, including potential full membership for Belarus.
    • US-India relations: India’s growing partnership with the US and their shared democratic values contrast with Chinese authoritarianism, creating a delicate balancing act for India.

    India’s Balancing Act

    • Maintaining partnerships: India has strengthened ties with the US through significant technology and defence agreements, emphasizing shared democratic values.
    • Historical ties with Iran: India has had traditional commercial ties with Iran, primarily in the import of crude oil.
    • Challenges in balancing: India’s shifting alliances with the US and historical ties with Iran pose challenges as the dynamics of the SCO evolve.

    Conclusion

    • Iran’s membership in the SCO signifies the changing geopolitical landscape and the increasing influence of China and Russia in the region.
    • India faces the challenge of balancing its partnerships with the US and historical ties with Iran while navigating the evolving dynamics within the SCO.

     

    Also read

    PM Modi to host SCO 2023 Summit

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

    Leptospirosis: A disease that surges in monsoons

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Leptospirosis

    Mains level: Not Much

    lepto

    Central Idea

    • Leptospirosis has emerged as an important infectious disease in the world today.
    • It is a potentially fatal zoonotic bacterial disease that tends to have large outbreaks after heavy rainfall or flooding.

    What is Leptospirosis?

    • Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease that poses a significant global health threat, particularly after heavy rainfall or flooding.
    • It affects millions of people annually, with a high mortality rate, and its burden is expected to increase in the future.
    • The disease is caused by the bacterium Leptospira interrogans, primarily transmitted from animals to humans.

    Disease Transmission and Risk Factors

    • Disease transmission: Leptospira is shed in the urine of infected animals, contaminating soil and water.
    • Carriers: Both wild and domestic animals, including rodents, cattle, pigs, and dogs, can transmit the disease.
    • Human exposure: Direct contact with animal urine or indirectly through contaminated soil and water poses a risk.
    • Occupational hazards: Agricultural workers, animal handlers, and those in sanitary services are at an increased risk.
    • Recreational activities: Engaging in water-based activities in contaminated lakes and rivers can also raise the risk.

    Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

    • Range of symptoms: Leptospirosis symptoms vary from mild flu-like illness to life-threatening conditions affecting multiple organs.
    • Misdiagnosis challenges: Symptoms mimic other diseases like dengue, malaria, and hepatitis, leading to underreporting and limited awareness.
    • Limited access to diagnostics: Lack of reliable diagnostic tools hinders accurate disease detection.
    • Lack of environmental surveillance: Insufficient monitoring of the environment contributes to underestimating the disease burden.

    Misconceptions and Preventive Measures

    • Reservoir hosts: Rats are not the sole cause; various animals act as reservoir hosts.
    • Environmental factors: Humidity and extreme weather events like floods increase the risk of exposure.
    • Sanitary conditions: Poor waste management, high density of stray animals, and inadequate sanitation facilities contribute to the disease spread.
    • Prevention strategies: Adopting a ‘One Health’ approach involving humans, animals, and the environment is crucial.
    • Personal protective equipment: People working with animals or in flooded areas should use gloves and boots.
    • Animal health and prevention: Ensuring sanitary animal-keeping conditions reduces the risk of leptospirosis transmission.
    • Health education and awareness: Promoting proper hygiene practices, educating about the disease, and improving health literacy are essential preventive measures.

     

  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    GIFT NIFTY: Connecting India and Singapore’s Capital Markets

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: GIFT NIFTY

    Mains level: NA

    gift

    Central Idea

    • GIFT NIFTY (formerly known as SGX NIFTY) commenced trading from GIFT City in Gujarat, marking the first cross-border initiative between India and Singapore’s capital markets.
    • The trading session witnessed over 30,000 trades, signifying the growing significance of this collaboration.

    What is GIFT NIFTY?

    • The migration to GIFT NIFTY was initiated by PM Modi in July 2022.
    • GIFT NIFTY plays a crucial role in expanding GIFT IFSC’s reach to foreign investors and enhancing the capital market ecosystem in GIFT City.
    • The collaboration between SGX and NSE strengthens the connection between two rapidly growing economies.
    • NSE IX is restricted from entering similar arrangements with other exchanges, providing stability to the partnership.
    • The initial five-year contract can be extended for an additional two years.

    Operating time

    • GIFT NIFTY establishes a trading link where trading and matching take place in India, while clearing and settlement occur in Singapore.
    • It operates from 6:30 am to 3:40 pm in the Asia time zone.
    • The second session, from 4:35 pm to 2:45 am (next day), targets investors from the United States and Europe.

    Deal between SGX and NSE

    • Revenue sharing: The five-year contract establishes a 50:50 revenue-sharing arrangement between Singapore Exchange (SGX) and NSE International Exchange (NSE IX).
    • Initial revenue split: For Singapore-generated business, SGX will receive 75% of the revenue, while NSE will receive the remaining 25%.
    • IFSC business: NSE will retain 75% of the International Financial Service Centre (IFSC) business, with the remaining 25% going to SGX.
    • Future volume-based sharing: Once a “threshold volume” is reached, the revenue sharing will be equally split between both entities.

    Shift to GIFT NIFTY

    • Ceasing SGX NIFTY: On June 30, trading on SGX NIFTY in Singapore ended, with the entire trading volume and liquidity transitioning to GIFT IFSC.
    • Rechristened GIFT NIFTY: The trading platform was renamed GIFT NIFTY, offering four products: GIFT Nifty 50, GIFT Nifty Bank, GIFT Nifty Financial Services, and GIFT Nifty IT derivatives contracts.

    Back2Basics: GIFT City, Gandhinagar

    • GIFT city is India’s first operational smart city and international financial services centre (much like a modern IT park).
    • The idea for GIFT was conceived during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investor Summit 2007.
    • The initial planning was done by East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI).
    • Currently approximately 225 units/companies are operational with more than 12000 professionals employed in the City.

    Key features

    • The entire city is based on the concept of FTTX (Fibre to the home/office).
    • The fiber optic is laid in fault-tolerant ring architecture so as to ensure maximum uptime of services.
    • Every building in GIFT City is an intelligent building.
    • There is piped supply of cooking gas. India’s first city-level DCS (district cooling system) is also operational at GIFT City.