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Type: Prelims Only

  • 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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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    PSLV-C62 Mission Failure

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

    Why in the News

    The Indian Space Research Organisation’s first launch of 2026, the PSLV-C62 mission, failed to place 16 satellites into the intended orbit on 12 January 2026. This marks the second consecutive failure of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), ISRO’s most reliable launch vehicle for over three decades.

    About PSLV-C62 Mission

    • Launch Vehicle: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
    • Payload: 16 satellites
      • Includes 7 foreign satellites
    • Mission outcome: Failed to reach intended orbit
    • Failure stage: Third stage (after successful completion of first two stages)

    Why the Failure Matters

    • PSLV is known as ISRO’s workhorse, with a long record of success since the 1990s.
    • This is the second straight PSLV failure, the first occurring in May 2025.
    • Consecutive failures raise concerns about reliability in the third stage, a critical phase of orbital insertion.

    Possible Cause of Failure

    • Exact cause not yet identified.
    • Based on the May 2025 failure, issues may relate to:
      • Drop in combustion chamber pressure in the third stage motor
      • Reduced thrust leads to insufficient acceleration needed to stabilise orbit
    • The Failure Analysis Committee report of the previous mission has not been made public.

    Why the Third Stage is Critical

    • The third stage provides high acceleration required to:
      • Maintain orbital velocity
      • Prevent premature orbital decay
    • Any pressure or thrust instability at this stage directly impacts mission success.

    PSLV: Four-Stage Configuration (Prelims Focus)

    1. First Stage
      • Solid propellant
      • Provides lift-off and overcomes gravity and atmospheric drag
      • Carries rocket to ~50–60 km altitude
    2. Second Stage
      • Liquid propellant
      • Improves velocity and stabilisation
    3. Third Stage
      • Solid motor
      • Provides rapid acceleration for orbital insertion
      • Most failure-prone stage in recent missions
    4. Fourth Stage
      • Liquid engines
      • Fine-tunes orbit and deploys satellites

    Prelims Pointers

    • PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle.
    • Recent PSLV failures occurred during the third stage.
    • Combustion chamber pressure is critical for orbital velocity.
    • PSLV has been operational for over 30 years.
    • ISRO has not yet released the Failure Analysis Committee report for the 2025 failure.
    [2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: 

    1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites

    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth

    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors, and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

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

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  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    DRDO Successfully Flight Tests Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)

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

    Why in the News?

    The Defence Research and Development Organisation successfully conducted the flight test of the third generation Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) with top attack capability against a moving target on 11 January 2026 at KK Ranges, Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra.

    About Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)

    • Type: Third generation Fire and Forget Anti Tank Guided Missile
    • Indigenous status: Fully indigenously developed
    • Intended user: Indian Army
    • Launch modes:
      • Tripod based launcher
      • Military Vehicle Mounted launcher

    Key Technological Features

    • Imaging Infrared (IIR) Homing Seeker
      • Enables day and night combat capability
      • Ensures high accuracy after launch without operator guidance
    • Top Attack Capability: Missile strikes the top of enemy tanks, the most vulnerable section
    • Tandem Warhead: Designed to defeat modern Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) with explosive reactive armour
    • All Electric Control Actuation System
    • Advanced Fire Control System
    • High Performance Sighting System
    • Indigenous Propulsion System

    Prelims Pointers

    • MPATGM is a third generation Fire and Forget missile
    • Uses Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker
    • Has top attack and tandem warhead capability
    • Successfully tested in January 2026
    • Developed by DRDO with BDL and BEL as production partners
    [2024] 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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  • Indian Army Updates

    Bhairav Battalion: India’s New Combat Ready Force for High Speed Operations

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army has operationalised a new rapid response combat unit called the Bhairav Battalion, reflecting a major shift towards fast, technology driven and multi domain warfare, especially along sensitive border areas.

    What is the Bhairav Battalion

    • A new age infantry formation raised in 2025
    • Designed for high speed, short notice and independent operations
    • Created after studying lessons from modern conflicts such as the Russia Ukraine war and India’s own border challenges
    • Focuses on hybrid warfare combining conventional combat with drones, electronic disruption and rapid manoeuvre
    [2025] With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements: 

    I. All types of UAVs can do vertical landing

    II. All types of UAVs can do automated hovering

    III. All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

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  • Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges

    Crypto Rules Tightened: Live Selfies and Geo Tagging Mandatory for Users

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Why in the News

    India’s Financial Intelligence Unit has rolled out stringent Anti Money Laundering and Know Your Customer norms for cryptocurrency exchanges, making live selfie verification and geographical tracking compulsory during user onboarding under guidelines issued on 8 January 2026.

    Regulatory Framework

    • Crypto exchanges classified as Virtual Digital Asset service providers
    • Covered as Reporting Entities under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act
    • FIU designated as the single point regulator for crypto exchanges in India

    New Mandatory KYC Requirements

    Live Selfie Verification

    • Capture of live photograph
    • Liveliness detection using eye blinking or head movement
    • Prevents use of static images and deepfakes
    • Confirms physical presence of the user

    Geo Tagging and Technical Data

    • Mandatory capture of
      • Latitude and longitude
      • Date and timestamp
      • IP address of onboarding location

    Penny Drop Verification

    • Re 1 bank transaction
    • Confirms bank account ownership and activity

    Identity and Authentication

    • Permanent Account Number compulsory
    • One additional identity document
      • Aadhaar
      • Passport
      • Voter ID
    • OTP verification of mobile number and email ID
    [2020] With reference to “Blockchain Technology” consider the following statements: 

    1. It is a public ledger that everyone can inspect, but which no single user controls

    2. The structure and design of blockchain is such that all the data in it are about cryptocurrency only

    3. Applications that depend on basic features of blockchain can be developed without anybody’s permission. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

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

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

    Kathputli Art of Rajasthan 

    Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    The traditional Kathputli art of Rajasthan, centred in Kathputli Nagar of Jaipur, highlights India’s rich intangible cultural heritage, where nearly 250 artisan families continue a centuries old puppet tradition amid challenges from modern entertainment.

    What is Kathputli?

    • Kathputli is one of India’s oldest folk puppet traditions
    • The word derives from
      • Kath meaning wood
      • Putli meaning doll
    • Puppets are string operated wooden figures with painted faces and colourful costumes

    Region and Community

    • Practised mainly in Rajasthan
    • Kathputli Nagar (Puppets Colony) in Jaipur is a major living hub
    • Craft is hereditary, passed down across generations within families

    Historical Significance

    • Traditionally performed by travelling storytellers
    • Used to narrate
      • Tales of Rajput kings and warriors
      • Folk legends and moral stories
    • Served as a mass communication medium before print and digital media

    Current Challenges

    • Competition from digital entertainment
    • Economic insecurity for artisans
    • Dependence on tourism and cultural events

    Prelims Pointers

    • Kathputli is a string puppet tradition
    • Originated in Rajasthan
    • Major hub is Kathputli Nagar, Jaipur
    • Puppets are made of wood and cloth
    • Historically used to narrate royal and folk tales
    [2024] Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO? 

    (a) Chhau dance 

    (b) Durga Puja 

    (c) Garba dance 

    (d) Kumbh Mela

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  • Dams and Hydroprojects

    Show Cause Notice on Bargi Dam 

    Prelims Only | Geography | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Why in the News?

    The National Dam Safety Authority issued a show cause notice to the Narmada Valley Development Authority over serious safety lapses at Bargi Dam.

    About Bargi Dam

    • A major multipurpose dam
    • Used for irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation
    • Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh
    • Constructed on the Narmada River

    Historical Background

    • Built under the Narmada Valley Development Project
    • First completed major dam among the planned series on the Narmada in Madhya Pradesh
    • Became the foundation project for the state’s Narmada basin development strategy

    Key Features

    • 21 spillway gates: Regulate flood discharge and reservoir levels during heavy rainfall
    • Bargi Diversion Project: Canal network supplying irrigation to drought prone regions
    • Rani Avantibai Lodhi Sagar Project: Large scale storage and distribution system for irrigation and water supply
    • Large reservoir supporting: Drinking water, Hydropower, Fisheries and Tourism and recreation

    Significance

    • Provides drinking water to Jabalpur and nearby districts
    • Supports agriculture through assured irrigation
    • Contributes to electricity generation
    • Boosts regional development and eco tourism

    Institutional Context

    National Dam Safety Authority

    • Apex body under the Dam Safety Act 2021
    • Responsible for surveillance, inspection, and safety compliance of specified dams

    Narmada Valley Development Authority

    • Implements and manages projects under the Narmada basin
    • Responsible for operation and maintenance of dams like Bargi

    Prelims Pointers

    • Bargi Dam is on the Narmada River
    • Located in Madhya Pradesh
    • Part of the Narmada Valley Development Project
    • NDSA acts under the Dam Safety Act 2021
    • Spillway gates are crucial for flood control
    [2016] The Narmada river flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why? 

    1. It occupies a linear rift valley

    2. It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras

    3. The land slopes to the west from Central India

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) None

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  • Electoral Reforms In India

    Special Intensive Revision in Uttar Pradesh 

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

    Why in the News?

    The Election Commission of India published the draft electoral rolls of Uttar Pradesh after completing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), resulting in the deletion of 2.89 crore voters, the highest absolute deletion for any State or Union Territory so far.

    Key Data from Uttar Pradesh SIR

    • Total voters in 2025 list: 15.44 crore
    • Retained in draft rolls: 12.55 crore
    • Deleted voters: 2.89 crore
    • Percentage deleted: 18.70 percent

    Breakup of deletions

    • Deceased voters: 46.23 lakh (2.99 percent)
    • Permanent migration or non availability: 2.17 crore (14.06 percent)
    • Multiple registrations: 25.47 lakh (1.65 percent)

    Comparative Perspective

    • Uttar Pradesh has the highest deletions in absolute numbers
    • Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded a higher percentage deletion
    • Other State deletion rates
      • Tamil Nadu: 15.19 percent
      • Gujarat: 14.5 percent
      • Chhattisgarh: 12.88 percent
      • West Bengal: 7.59 percent
      • Kerala: 8.65 percent
    [2017] For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by: 

    (a) Anyone residing in India

    (b) A resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested

    (c) Any citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency

    (d) Any citizen of India.

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