Why in the News?
The first Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was held on June 16, 2025, in New Delhi, with the Union Environment Minister presiding over the session.
About the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
- Overview: It is a multi-country, multi-agency alliance of 95 countries, both range and non-range, dedicated to the conservation of big cats and their habitats.
- Launch: Proposed by PM Modi in 2019, the alliance was officially launched in April 2023 to mark Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
- Conservation Focus: IBCA seeks to protect and restore populations of 7 big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma.
- Core Functions: The alliance works through advocacy, knowledge exchange, promotion of eco-tourism, and resource mobilisation.
- Conflict Resolution: It aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and restore degraded habitats critical to big cat survival.
- Global Participation: IBCA brings together 95 range countries from:
- Asia: India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Iran
- Africa: Kenya, Congo, Ghana
- Americas: Brazil, Ecuador, United States
- Europe/Central Asia: Russia, Kazakhstan
- Members: Bhutan, Eswatini, Cambodia, Guinea, India, Liberia, Nicaragua, Somalia and Suriname have deposited an instrument of ratification.
- Institutional Structure: It is governed by a General Assembly, an elected Council, and a secretariat led by a Secretary-General.
- Permanent Base: The ratification of the headquarters agreement has enabled IBCA to set up its permanent headquarters in India.
India’s Role:
- Species Richness: India is home to 5 of the 7 big cats—the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah—and holds 70% of the world’s tiger population.
- Funding Commitment: The Indian government has committed ₹150 crore (2023–2028) and is attracting additional global contributions to support the alliance’s goals.
- Conservation Leadership: India plays a leading global role in big cat protection, setting benchmarks in wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 2 |
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Why in the News?
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has released its Global Liveability Index 2025, evaluating 173 cities worldwide on their quality of life.
About the Global Liveability Index:
- Publisher: It is released annually by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
- Purpose: It measures the quality of life in 173 cities worldwide, assessing how challenging or comfortable it is to live in each location.
- Usage: The index informs decisions by corporations, governments, and development agencies, particularly for policy planning and expatriate relocation.
- Five Assessment Categories:
-
- Stability (25%): Considers levels of crime, civil unrest, and terrorism threats.
- Healthcare (20%): Evaluates the quality, accessibility, and availability of medical services.
- Culture & Environment (25%): Includes climate, cultural offerings, and environmental conditions.
- Education (10%): Measures access to public and private education and overall quality.
- Infrastructure (20%): Covers transport, roads, housing, and utility services.
- Scoring: Cities are rated from 1 (intolerable) to 100 (ideal) using 30+ qualitative and quantitative indicators.
Key Global Rankings (2025):
- Top Cities:
- Copenhagen (Denmark) ranked 1st, scoring 98/100 with perfect marks in stability, education, and infrastructure.
- Vienna and Zurich tied for 2nd, followed by Melbourne (4th) and Geneva (5th).
- Regional Trends: Western European cities dominated the top 10, thanks to strong healthcare, education, and public transport systems.
- Asia-Pacific Performers: Melbourne, Sydney, Osaka, Auckland, and Adelaide made the top 10, showing continued high liveability.
- Improvements: Al Khobar (Saudi Arabia) jumped 13 spots due to gains in education and healthcare.
- Lowest Ranked: Damascus (Syria) remains the least liveable, followed by Tripoli (Libya) and Dhaka (Bangladesh).
- India’s Position: Both Delhi and Mumbai ranked 141st out of 173 cities, reflecting persistent issues in healthcare, infrastructure, air quality, and public safety.
| [UPSC 2017] With reference to the role of UN-Habitat in the United Nations programme working towards a better urban future, consider the following statements:
1. UN-Habitat has been mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities to provide adequate shelter for all.
2. Its partners are either governments or local urban authorities only.
3. UN-Habitat contributes to the overall objective of the United Nations system to reduce poverty and to promote access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only* (c) 2 and 3 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
Pune’s Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE) has recently called for a neutral takeover of its parent body, the Servants of India Society (SIS), following allegations of financial irregularities.
About Servants of India Society:
- Founding: It was founded on June 12, 1905, in Pune by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, along with N.A. Dravid, G.K. Devadhar, and A.V. Patwardhan.
- Mission: The Society aimed to train Indians for selfless national service, promote education, and work for social and political reform through constitutional means.
- Core Values: Members took vows of simple living, secularism, and equality across caste and religion.
- Non-political Nature: Though non-political and non-sectarian, many SIS members contributed significantly to the freedom movement.
- Prominent Members: Influential members included V.S. Srinivasa Sastri, Hriday Nath Kunzru, and A.V. Thakkar.
- Major Activities: SIS established schools, ran night classes, supported healthcare, and published The Hitavada since 1911.
- Welfare Work: It actively engaged in disaster relief, women’s and child welfare, and rural development.
- Secular Legacy: It was India’s first secular social reform organisation, focusing on nation-building through service.
- Current Status: Headquartered in Pune, it continues to operate today, though with limited membership, preserving its foundational values.
Gopal Krishna Gokhale (1866-1915):
- Early Life: He was a liberal nationalist, senior Indian National Congress leader, and social reformer.
- Political Journey: He joined the Indian National Congress in 1889 under Justice M.G. Ranade and became Congress President in 1905.
- Institution Building: In 1905, Gokhale founded the Servants of India Society to train dedicated public servants.
- Legislative Work: He served in the Bombay Legislative Council (1899) and the Imperial Legislative Council as a non-official member.
- Reform Advocacy: Gokhale played a major role in securing the Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) and presented India’s economic conditions to the Welby Commission.
- Mentor to Gandhi: Gokhale was a political mentor to Mahatma Gandhi and supported his early work, including funding the Sabarmati Ashram.
- Education and Journalism: He established the Ranade Institute of Economics and launched The Hitavada newspaper (published from Nagpur).
- Philosophy: Gokhale believed in constitutional reform, education, and social justice as the path to Indian self-rule, bridging social reform and political activism.
|
| [UPSC 2009] Who among the following rejected the title of knighthood and refused to accept a position in the Council of the Secretary of State for India?
Options: (a) Motilal Nehru (b) M.G. Ranade* (c) G.K. Gokhale (d) B.G. Tilak |
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Why in the News?
A one-day Samyoga event was organised today at the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh, with the participation of experts from 10 states of India.
About Sowa-Rigpa:
- Overview: Sowa-Rigpa, also known as Traditional Tibetan Medicine or the Amchi system, is among the oldest continuously practised medical systems in the world.
- Origin: The term comes from the Bhoti language, meaning “knowledge of healing”, and dates back over 2,000 years.
- Historical Development: It was codified in the 8th century CE during King Trisong Detsen’s reign and further developed in the 12th century.
- Foundational Text: The Gyud-Zi (4 Tantras) integrates ideas from Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, Greek traditions, and Bon and Buddhist philosophy.
- Global Presence: Sowa-Rigpa is practiced in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan, Nepal, and parts of Russia and China.
- Indian Regions: In India, it is common in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul & Spiti), Jammu & Kashmir, and Darjeeling.
- Core Beliefs: The system promotes disease prevention, longevity, and holistic mind-body well-being, viewing the body as a microcosm of nature in harmony with the environment.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Diagnostic Methods: Practitioners use pulse analysis, urine analysis, and detailed observation including case history.
- Therapies Used: Treatments include diet and lifestyle adjustments, herbal medicines, Kunyé massage, moxibustion, acupuncture, and spiritual healing.
- Ayurvedic Influence: About 75% of its theoretical base is derived from Ayurveda, especially the Ashtanga Hridaya.
- Common Herbs: Shared medicinal herbs include Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Guggulu.
Education and Recognition:
- Traditional Training: Knowledge was historically passed through oral traditions, via guru-shishya parampara or family lineages.
- Modern Institutions: The Central Council for Tibetan Medicine oversees education and practice standards.
- National Institute: The National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) in Leh leads in education, research, and policy implementation.
- Government Recognition: Sowa-Rigpa has been officially recognised under AYUSH systems in India since 2010 and is promoted in multiple Himalayan states.
| [UPSC 2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:
Options: (a) anti-malarial drug* (b) biodiesel (c) pulp for paper industry (d) textile fibre |
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Why in the News?
A new study from the University of Plymouth has revealed that over 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened in the last two decades.
What is Ocean Darkening?
- Ocean darkening refers to the reduction in sunlight penetration into the ocean’s upper layers, known as the photic zone (up to 200 meters deep), where sunlight drives photosynthesis and supports marine biodiversity.
- This process is measured using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490), which tracks how quickly light diminishes as it passes through seawater.
- The photic zone is essential for phytoplankton productivity, oxygen generation, marine food chains, and the regulation of global climate.
Recent Report Citing Ocean Darkening:
- A new study by researchers from the University of Plymouth, published in 2024, titled “Darkening of the Global Ocean”, revealed that 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened from 2003 to 2022.
- Key findings:
- 9% of the ocean saw a drop of more than 50 meters in light penetration—equal to the area of Africa.
- 2.6% experienced a loss exceeding 100 meters in photic depth.
- Affected Region: The study found the Arctic, Antarctic, Gulf Stream, and North Sea among the worst affected regions.
- Causes:
- Algal blooms from nutrient runoff in coastal areas.
- Warming seas, altered plankton dynamics, and changing ocean currents in open ocean zones.
Implications of Ocean Darkening:
- Ecosystem Disruption: Light-dependent species, such as Calanus copepods, are being pushed into shallower zones, increasing predation and competition.
- Loss of Habitat: The shrinkage of the photic zone could be one of the largest marine habitat losses ever, affecting fish stocks and biodiversity.
- Climate Feedback Loop: Reduced photosynthesis in oceans could weaken the ocean’s role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production, worsening climate change.
- Threat to Global Fisheries: The contraction of productive zones affects fish populations, jeopardising fisheries and food security.
- Scientific Concern: Researchers warn that this hidden crisis could fundamentally alter marine ecosystems if not urgently addressed.
| [UPSC 2025] With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements:
I. Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans. II. Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of the world’s oxygen. III. Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric air.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) I and II (b) II only * (c) I and III (d) None of the above statements is correct |
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Why in the News?
India advanced its indigenous defence tech with SDAL’s successful trial of the Hybrid VTOL UAV Rudrastra at Pokhran.
About Rudrastra:
- Rudrastra is an indigenously developed Hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV built by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL).
- The UAV is engineered for deep-strike capabilities, capable of carrying out precision missions without endangering human soldiers.
- It is tailored for anti-personnel roles, with airburst munitions designed to strike targets across hostile borders.
- Rudrastra blends rotor-based vertical lift with fixed-wing cruise capability, enhancing deployment across diverse terrains.
- It is considered a “stand-off” weapon, enabling missions deep into enemy territory with autonomous return capability.
Key Features:
- Hybrid VTOL Design: Can vertically take off and land like a helicopter and cruise like a fixed-wing aircraft, enhancing flexibility.
- Extended Range: Demonstrated a total mission range of over 170 km, including loiter time over the target.
- Real-Time Surveillance: Maintained a stable video link while covering a 50+ km mission radius.
- Precision Strike Capability: Successfully deployed airburst munitions, effective for area damage and anti-personnel use.
- Endurance: Achieved a flight endurance of 1.5 hours, ideal for extended ISR or strike operations.
- Autonomous Navigation: Returned independently to the launch site after completing the mission.
- Made in India: Fully developed by an Indian defence company, supporting indigenous innovation in combat drones.
| [UPSC 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?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the three (d) None* |
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Why in the News?
A recent study confirms that Arabia wasn’t always a desert wall but occasionally a green bridge between continents.
About the Green Arabia Hypothesis:
- Core Idea: It suggests that the Arabian Peninsula, now one of the driest places on Earth, experienced multiple humid phases over the past 8 million years, turning it into a green corridor for early migrations.
- Challenge to Old Views: This theory challenges traditional models that excluded Arabia from early human dispersal routes in the ‘Out of Africa’ narrative.
- Fossil Evidence: The discovery of fossils of crocodiles, hippos, and horses, dating up to 74,000 years ago, supports the claim that Arabia was once lush and habitable.
Key Discoveries and Methods:
- Archaeological Sites: Over 10,000 ancient lakebeds and sites over 500,000 years old were found, confirming Arabia’s role as a migration bridge between Africa and Eurasia.
- Speleothem Analysis: 22 speleothem samples (mineral deposits formed within caves) from seven Saudi caves indicated humid phases between 7.44 million and 60,000 years ago.
- Dating Techniques: Scientists used uranium-thorium dating to accurately time wet periods, revealing patterns linked to monsoon shifts and glacial cycles.
- Environmental Impact: These wet intervals, though brief, supported vegetation, biodiversity, and water bodies, enabling human and animal settlements.
Significance of the Study:
- Biogeographic Role: Arabia is now viewed as a climate-sensitive migratory bridge, not a barrier, in human evolution and dispersal.
- Climate Dependency: Human movement was influenced not just by geography, but by shifts in rainfall patterns and monsoonal activity.
- Key Locations: Sites like Jubbah Oasis provided stone tools and lakebed evidence, validating early human habitation in the region.
- Conclusion: Arabia’s periodic greening played a decisive role in early human migration, revising our understanding of ancient dispersal pathways out of Africa.
| [UPSC 2014] Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?
1. Continental drift
2. Glacial cycles Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
The fire on MV Wan Hai 503 near Kannur exposed India’s weak maritime safety. With over 140 hazardous containers onboard, it posed a major risk during the monsoon, threatening the environment and lives.
What are the major types of peacetime maritime accidents faced by the Indian coast?
- Sinking of merchant ships – leads to cargo loss, traffic disruption, and environmental damage.
- Fire onboard vessels – threatens coastal life, property, and marine ecology.
- Oil spills – have long-lasting environmental impacts and are difficult to contain.
|
Why was the MV Wan Hai 503 incident a significant maritime safety challenge?
- Presence of Hazardous Cargo: Over 140 of the 1,754 containers onboard contained hazardous materials, posing a high risk of toxic release and chemical explosions. Eg: Multiple colors of smoke (brown, white, grey, black) indicated different substances burning simultaneously.
- Proximity to Coastline During Fire: The ship began drifting dangerously toward the Indian coast near Azhikkal, Kerala, during monsoon rough seas, increasing the threat of coastal disaster. Eg: The tow rope initially snapped under pressure, risking further drift and collision with the shore.
- Complexity of Fire-Fighting and Towing: Fire-fighting was complicated by weather conditions and ship instability, requiring precise coordination. Eg: An Indian Navy helicopter had to airdrop a salvage team to pass a steel wire rope for safe towing to deeper waters.
- Multi-Agency Emergency Response Needed: The incident required rapid coordination between the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and the ship owner’s team using tugs. Eg: The ship was finally stabilized 45 nautical miles offshore, where the water depth was nearly one kilometre, minimizing risk to coastal areas.
How did Indian agencies respond to the fire on MV Wan Hai 503?
- Rapid firefighting efforts amid adverse conditions: The Indian Coast Guard initiated firefighting operations despite rough seas caused by the monsoon. Eg: Firefighting continued while the ship drifted dangerously toward the Kerala coast, with thick smoke from burning hazardous cargo.
- Coordinated aerial and naval action: The Indian Navy deployed a helicopter to airdrop a salvage team onto the ship and deliver a steel wire rope to secure it. Eg: The steel rope enabled safe towing after the initial tow rope snapped due to tension and sea conditions.
- Strategic towing and risk mitigation: Indian agencies, in coordination with the ship owner’s agents and tugboats, towed the vessel 45 nautical milesaway from the coast to prevent environmental and coastal damage. Eg: The vessel was moved to deeper waters (1 km depth) to minimize the impact of any further explosion or sinking.
Why are gas-carrying and oil-laden ships considered severe fire and explosion hazards?
- High flammability of cargo: Gas and crude oil are highly combustible, making these ships extremely prone to fires and explosions if containment fails. Eg: Even a minor spark can ignite vapours from gas or oil, causing catastrophic fires onboard.
- Large volume of hazardous material: These vessels carry enormous quantities of flammable substances, which amplify the scale of damage during accidents. Eg: The New Diamond VLCC was carrying 2,70,000 tonnes of crude oil when it caught fire off Colombo in 2020.
- Critical maritime chokepoint risks: Accidents involving such vessels at strategic locations like the Suez Canal or Strait of Malacca can disrupt global trade and cause widespread damage. Eg: A gas carrier explosion at a maritime chokepoint could halt international shipping routes, impacting global supply chains.
What are the key areas India needs to strengthen in maritime fire-fighting and salvage operations? (Way forward)
- Rapid Salvage Capability: India must improve its ability for quick salvage of sinking or damaged vessels to prevent cargo loss, environmental damage, and navigation disruption. Eg: During the MV Wan Hai 503 incident, timely towing by the Indian Navy helped avert a coastal disaster, but highlighted the need for faster salvage deployment.
- Multi-agency Coordination: Effective response to maritime emergencies requires seamless coordination among the Coast Guard, Navy, port authorities, and private salvage firms. Eg: The successful control of the New Diamond VLCC fire involved joint efforts from Indian and Sri Lankan naval forces.
- Advanced Fire-fighting Infrastructure: India needs to upgrade fire-fighting equipment on patrol vessels and at key ports, especially for handling hazardous cargo and oil/gas fires. Eg: The Coast Guard’s patrol vessels are now fitted with basic fire-fighting systems, but large-scale fires require specialised ships and foam-based suppression systems.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] What are the ways in which oil pollution affects the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
Linkage: Maritime Accident Response” explicitly talks about the “oil spills” as one of the three major peacetime maritime accidents that the Indian coast needs protection against. It also states that oil is a “more severe fire hazard” than hazardous cargo, especially in the context of gas-carrying merchant ships. This question directly addresses the environmental and national impact of oil pollution, which is a significant aspect of maritime accidents and firefighting efforts.
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Why in the News?
Passively Managed Funds—those that track a market index without active stock selection—have become increasingly popular among investors seeking low-cost, predictable returns.
About Passively Managed Funds:
- Passively managed funds, commonly known as passive funds, are investment vehicles designed to replicate the performance of a specific market index, such as the Nifty Fifty or the Sensex.
- Unlike actively managed funds, the fund manager in a passive fund does not select stocks or make frequent buy-and-sell decisions.
- Instead, the fund holds the same stocks in the same proportion as the underlying index.
- How Passive Funds Work?
-
- These funds track a benchmark index by investing in all or a representative sample of the securities in that index.
- The objective is to mirror the index’s returns, not to outperform it.
- As a result, they incur lower management costs and have minimal portfolio turnover.
Types of Passive Funds:
- Index Funds:
-
- These are mutual funds that can be purchased or redeemed directly from the fund house.
- Transactions are processed only once a day, based on the day’s closing Net Asset Value.
- They offer ease of use and are suitable for systematic investment plans and long-term investors.
- Exchange Traded Funds:
-
- These are funds listed on stock exchanges, like the National Stock Exchange or the Bombay Stock Exchange.
- Investors buy or sell units during trading hours through brokers, just like stocks.
- They require a dematerialised account and are suitable for investors seeking intraday trading flexibility.
Advantages of Passive Funds:
- Low Expense Ratios: Because no active research or trading is involved.
- Transparency: Holdings closely follow a well-known index.
- Diversification: Spreads investment risk across multiple securities.
- No Human Bias: Avoids mistakes due to the fund manager’s poor decisions.
Limitations:
- No Outperformance: Returns will always be close to the index and cannot exceed it.
- Tracking Error: Slight variation between the fund’s performance and the index due to operational reasons.
- Limited Flexibility: Cannot adapt to sudden market downturns.
| [UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements:
Statement I: As regards returns from an investment in a company, generally, bondholders are considered to be relatively at lower risk than stockholders.
Statement II: Bondholders are lenders to a company, whereas stockholders are its owners.
Statement III: For repayment purposes, bondholders are prioritised over stockholders by a company.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct, and both of them explain Statement I *
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, and Statement I explains Statement II
(c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
(d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct |
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Why in the News?
Researchers from Chennai have discovered a new species of jumping spider, ‘Spartaeus karigiri’, belonging to the Spartaeinae subfamily.
About the Spartaeus karigiri :
- Spartaeus karigiri is a newly discovered species of jumping spider, part of the Spartaeinae subfamily within the Salticidae (jumping spider) family.
- It was first identified in the Karigiri (Elephant Hill) region of Devarayanadurga, Karnataka, and is named after this location.
- The species marks the first recorded instance of the Spartaeus genus being found in India, extending its previously known range from Southeast Asia.
- Field specimens were also collected from Villupuram district in Tamil Nadu, suggesting a broader habitat.
Key Features:
- Genus Identification: Belongs to the Spartaeus genus, known for its intelligent predation and visual hunting tactics.
- Habitat: Found in rocky outcrops and forested terrain; prefers crevices and protected microhabitats.
- Hunting Behaviour: Likely exhibits web-invasion hunting methods and prey mimicry, similar to other Spartaeinae members.
| [UPSC 2025] Regarding the Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements:
I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.
II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) I only (b) I and III (c) II only (d) II and III * |
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Why in the News?
Following the tragic crash of the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, authorities concluded the identities of the victims using DNA analysis.
What is DNA?
- Overview: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the molecule that carries genetic instructions essential for the development, growth, and reproduction of all living organisms.
- Location in the Body: It is present in nearly every human cell and is unique to each person, except for identical twins.
- Structure: DNA is made up of four chemical bases—Adenine (A), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G), and Thymine (T)—arranged in sequences that encode genetic data.
- Biological Fingerprint: Due to its individual uniqueness, DNA acts like a biological fingerprint, useful in crime investigations and disaster victim identification.
How DNA Identification Works?
- Use in Forensics: DNA is extracted from human remains when visual identification is not possible due to burns, decomposition, or trauma.
- Reference Matching: Extracted DNA is compared with:
- Family reference samples (from parents, children, siblings)
- Personal belongings (like a toothbrush, razor, or hairbrush)
- Sample Reliability: Bones and teeth are preferred in degraded conditions, as they preserve DNA more effectively.
- Forensic Accuracy: Specialized forensic labs analyze and match DNA sequences, confirming identity with high levels of accuracy.
Common DNA Analysis Methods:
- Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis:
-
- Focuses on short, repeating sequences of DNA that vary among individuals.
- Requires nuclear DNA, typically from well-preserved samples.
- Considered the gold standard for forensic identification.
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis:
-
- Extracts DNA from mitochondria, not the nucleus, making it more resilient in degraded samples.
- Inherited only from the mother, allowing tracing through the maternal lineage.
- Y-Chromosome Analysis:
-
- Targets Y chromosomes, passed from father to son.
- Useful for identifying male victims when paternal relatives are available.
- Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Analysis:
-
- Detects single-letter changes in the DNA sequence.
- Applied when DNA is highly degraded and other methods are less effective.
- Can be used with reference items like personal hygiene tools.
| [UPSC 2000] Assertion (A): DNA Finger-printing” has become a powerful tool to establish paternity and identity of criminals in rape and assault cases. Reason (R): Trace evidence such as hairs, saliva and dried semen are adequate for DNA analysis.
Options: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A (c) A is true, but R is false (d) A is false, but R is true |
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Why in the News?
For the first time since India’s independence, the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh has been opened to domestic tourists, marking a historic shift in India’s border tourism strategy.
About Shipki La Pass:
- It is a high-altitude mountain pass at 3,930 meters in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, on the India–Tibet (China) border.
- It is one of only 3 official border trading points between India and Tibet, along with Nathu La (Sikkim) and Lipulekh (Uttarakhand).
- The Sutlej River (called Langqen Zangbo in Tibet) enters India near Shipki La, adding geographical importance to the area.
- The pass lies along National Highway 5 (NH5) and is considered one of the highest motorable roads in India.
- Historically, it served as a major trade route, enabling exchange of salt, wool, spices, yak tails, and tea between India and Tibet.
- Trade was stopped in 1962 after the India-China war, resumed in 1992, but was halted again during COVID-19.
- On June 9, 2025, Himachal Pradesh opened the pass to Indian tourists for the first time since Independence.
- The initiative is part of a “Border Tourism” strategy, which includes the launch of the Sarhad Van Udyan (Border Forest Park).
- It is also being considered as an alternate route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Other Important Himalayan Passes:
- Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir:
- Khardung La (5,359 m) – Among the highest motorable passes; connects Leh with Nubra Valley.
- Zoji La – Links Srinagar with Leh; vital for year-round Ladakh access.
- Chang La, Baralacha La, Umling La (5,798 m) – Crucial for Leh connectivity and defense.
- Rezang La – Famous for the 1962 India-China war battle.
- Karakoram Pass, Aghil Pass, Demchok Pass – Strategic India-China border passes.
- Himachal Pradesh:
- Rohtang Pass – Connects Kullu with Lahaul-Spiti; key for tourism and logistics.
- Parang La – Links Spiti Valley and Parvati Valley; used by trekkers and herders.
- Shipki La – Now open to tourists; historical Indo-Tibetan trade route.
- Uttarakhand:
- Lipulekh Pass (5,632 m) – Used for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- Mana Pass – One of the highest vehicle-accessible passes; connects to Tibet.
- Niti Pass, Milam Pass, Kuthi Pass – Historical trade and pilgrimage routes.
- Sikkim:
- Nathu La – Major border trade route; part of the ancient Silk Route.
- Jelep La – Historical route linking Sikkim with Lhasa via Chumbi Valley.
- Arunachal Pradesh:
- Se La, Bum La – Connect to Tawang and Bhutan border.
- Pangsau Pass, Diphu Pass – Connect Arunachal with Myanmar; important for WWII history and connectivity.
| [UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?
Options: (a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La (d) Shipki La |
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Why in the News?
Authorities have recovered the black box from the crash site of the recent incident in Ahmedabad.
About Black Boxes:
- Purpose: Black boxes are essential flight data recording devices used in aircraft to aid in accident investigation and flight safety analysis.
- Development: Australian scientist David Warren in 1954, developed the first practical FDR after investigating mid-air explosions.
- Color and Visibility: Despite the name, black boxes are painted bright orange with reflective material to make them easily visible after a crash.
- Two Main Types: Aircraft typically have two black boxes:
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- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and
- Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR).
- Single Unit: Some aircraft integrate both functions into a single combined unit.
- How does it work?
- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): The CVR records cockpit audio, including pilot conversations, radio transmissions, alarm sounds, and background noises like engine hum or warning tones.
- Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR): The DFDR logs key flight performance data, including altitude, airspeed, direction, engine parameters, and system operations, capturing thousands of data points per second.
- Installation Location: Black boxes are usually installed in the tail section of the aircraft, as this area is statistically more likely to remain intact in a crash.
- Recording Capacity: The CVR records the last 2 hours of cockpit audio on a continuous loop, while the DFDR stores up to 25 hours of flight data.
- Durability and Protection: Black boxes use solid-state memory chips housed in crash-survivable casings that can endure high-impact forces, extreme temperatures (up to 1,100°C), and deep-sea pressure.
- Underwater Locator Beacons (ULBs): Each black box includes a beacon that emits signals for up to 30 days, aiding search teams in locating the devices in the event of a water crash.
Use of Black Boxes in India:
- Regulation in India: In India, aircraft crash investigations are conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, using black box data as primary evidence.
- Recent Development (April 2025): India established its first dedicated Flight Recorders Laboratory in New Delhi, strengthening the country’s capability to analyze crash data independently and efficiently.
| [UPSC 2025] GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?
I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high-quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.
Options: (a) I, II and III (b) II and III only (c) I only (d) I and II only* |
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Why in the News?
The Finance Ministry has firmly denied recent online rumours suggesting that the government is planning to impose Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions.
About Merchant Discount Rate (MDR):
- Overview: MDR refers to the fee charged to merchants by banks or payment service providers for processing digital payments made via credit cards, debit cards or other digital modes.
- Purpose: It serves to compensate multiple stakeholders involved in a digital transaction, including the issuing bank, acquiring bank, payment gateway, and network operator.
- Fee Structure: MDR is typically calculated as a percentage of the total transaction amount, usually ranging from 1% to 3%, depending on the transaction and merchant type.
- RBI Regulation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates MDR, and merchants are NOT permitted to pass this fee onto customers.
- Discontinuation: To promote cashless payments, the government waived MDR on UPI and RuPay card transactions in 2020, benefiting small merchants and consumers.
How does it work?
- Transaction Flow: When a customer pays digitally, the payment amount is credited to the merchant’s account after deducting the MDR fee.
- Example: If a customer pays ₹1,000 and the MDR is 2%, the merchant receives ₹980, while the remaining ₹20 is distributed among the banks and service providers.
- Automatic Deduction: The MDR amount is automatically deducted by the settlement system at the time of transaction processing.
- Variable Rates: The MDR rate may vary depending on factors such as the type of card used, nature of business, monthly transaction volume, and average transaction value.
- Merchant Agreements: Merchants are required to sign MDR agreements with their payment service providers before they begin accepting digital payments.
- Operational Cost: MDR is treated as a part of the merchant’s operational costs when offering customers the convenience of digital payment options.
| [UPSC 2017] Which one of the following best describes the term “Merchant Discount Rate” sometimes seen in news?
Options: (a) The incentive given by a bank to a merchant for accepting payments through debit cards pertaining to that bank.
(b) The amount paid back by banks to their customers when they use debit cards for financial transactions for purchasing goods or services.
(c) The charge to a merchant by a bank for accepting payments from his customers through the bank’s debit cards. *
(d) The incentive given by the Government to merchants for promoting digital payments by their customers through Point of Sale (PoS) machines and debit cards. |
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Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Power is considering a policy to restrict the temperature range of new air conditioners (ACs) in India to between 20°C and 28°C.
Important Facts and Keywords related to ACs:
- Efficiency Ratings: ACs have ratings like SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). A higher rating means the AC uses less power to cool the same space.
- Inverter Technology: Some ACs use inverter compressors, which adjust speed instead of turning on and off repeatedly. This saves energy and keeps the room temperature more stable.
- Humidity Control: ACs also help by removing moisture from the air. This keeps humidity around 40–60%, which feels more comfortable and prevents mold.
- Cooling Capacity: ACs are measured in tons. A “ton” of cooling comes from the amount of heat needed to melt 1 ton (~2,000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours.
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How do Air Conditioners Work?
- Basic Idea: Air conditioners (ACs) work like a heat-moving machine. They take heat from inside your room and push it outside, making the room cooler. They do this using a special fluid called a refrigerant, and a system called the vapour-compression cycle.
- Main Parts and What They Do:
- Evaporator: This part is inside your room. The refrigerant, which is very cold here, absorbs heat from the indoor air and turns into a gas. It also removes moisture, so your room feels less humid.
- Compressor: This is outside the house. It squeezes the refrigerant gas, making it very hot (about 90°C) and high-pressure. This part uses the most electricity in the AC.
- Condenser: The hot gas then flows through the condenser coil outside. It releases heat into the outdoor air and turns back into a liquid.
- Expansion Valve: This part lowers the pressure of the liquid refrigerant, making it cold again before it goes back to the evaporator to repeat the cycle.
- Refrigerant: The refrigerant is a specially designed gas that changes state easily at low temperatures and pressures, making it ideal for absorbing and releasing heat rapidly. Modern refrigerants like R-32 or R-410A are more energy-efficient and environmentally safer than older ones like CFCs and HCFCs.
Why limit AC Temperature settings?
- Energy Efficiency Data: According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), setting an AC to 24°C instead of a lower setting can save 6% electricity per 1°C increase.
- National Impact: If adopted widely, this temperature setting could help India save 20 billion units of electricity annually.
- Health Risks at Low Temperatures: Temperatures below 18°C are linked to hypertension, asthma, and respiratory infections, especially among children, the elderly, and people with weakened thermoregulation.
- Evidence from Global Studies: Research in Japan, the UK, and New Zealand shows that slightly warmer indoor settings lead to better respiratory and cardiovascular health.
- WHO Recommendation: The World Health Organization advises 18°C as the minimum safe indoor temperature in temperate climates.
- Thermal Comfort Standards: Guidelines like ASHRAE-55 and ISO 7730 suggest optimal indoor temperatures between 20°C and 24°C for lightly clothed people, with adjustments based on local climate and culture.
Global Cooling Trends and the Need for Regulation:
- Global AC Usage Growth: As of 2022, there were an estimated 2 billion air conditioners in use worldwide, with residential units tripling since 2000, especially in India and China.
- Access Gap in Asia-Pacific: Despite this growth, 43% of the Asia-Pacific population still lacks access to adequate cooling solutions.
- Environmental Impact: Air conditioning significantly increases electricity use and carbon emissions, especially in countries with fossil fuel-dependent grids.
- India’s AC Load Projection: By 2030, India’s total connected AC load is expected to reach 200 gigawatts, requiring urgent demand management strategies.
- Consumer Awareness Tools: Initiatives like default settings at 24°C and energy labelling empower consumers to make informed energy-efficient choices.
- Benefits of Regulation: A regulated temperature range can help lower energy consumption, reduce peak power demand, and support public health.
| [UPSC 2003] Consider the following statements:
1. Steam at 100°C and boiling water at 100°C contain the same amount of heat.
2. Latent heat of fusion of ice is equal to the latent heat of vaporization of water.
3. In an air-conditioner, heat is extracted from the room-air at the evaporator coils and is rejected out at the condenser coils.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) Only 2 (d) Only 3* |
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Why in the News?
The Working Group on Avian Checklists has released AviList, the world’s first unified global bird checklist to standardize bird classification and support global research and conservation.
What is AviList?
- Overview: AviList is the first unified global checklist of bird species, officially launched on June 12, 2025.
- Who developed it: It was developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the International Ornithologists’ Union, the American Ornithologists’ Society, and Avibase.
- Purpose: The checklist aims to eliminate confusion caused by conflicting taxonomies and to improve global coordination in bird research and conservation.
- Standalone feature: AviList replaces separate resources like the IOC World Bird List and the Clements Checklist with a single, consensus-based taxonomy.
- Accessibility: It is freely available at www.avilist.org and will be updated annually to reflect the latest scientific consensus.
- Target Users: AviList supports ornithologists, birdwatchers, conservationists, researchers, and policymakers globally.
Key Features of AviList:
- Standardized Taxonomy: Combines inputs from global and regional checklists to ensure taxonomic consistency.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Lists 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
- Consensus-Driven Process: Taxonomic decisions are made through structured milestone assessments and expert committee voting.
- Transparency in Changes: Provides clear justifications for taxonomic updates, especially those involving disputed species.
- Living Document: Designed to evolve continuously with new scientific discoveries and updates.
- Conservation Impact: Helps improve biodiversity assessments and conservation planning by clarifying species boundaries.
| [UPSC 2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘BirdLife International’, consider the following statements:
1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.
2.The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.
3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Indian Army has deployed it’s contingent to participate in Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025, a major multinational peacekeeping exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Concurrently, India is also set to conduct Exercise SHAKTI 2025 with France.
About Exercise KHAAN QUEST, 2025:
- Overview: It is a multinational peacekeeping military exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from June 14 to 28, 2025.
- Origins: The exercise was initiated in 2003 as a bilateral drill between the United States and Mongolian Armed Forces and became a multinational event in 2006.
- Indian Participation: India has sent a 40-member contingent, primarily from the Kumaon Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services, including one woman officer and two women soldiers.
- Focus: The exercise trains troops for Peacekeeping Missions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which deals with action regarding threats to peace and acts of aggression.
- Key Training Drills: Participating forces will engage in checkpoint establishment, cordon and search operations, civilian evacuation from conflict zones, counter-IED tactics, and combat casualty care.
- Objectives: The main goal is to build interoperability, promote joint planning, and strengthen tactical coordination among different participating nations.
About Exercise SHAKTI, 2025:
- Overview: It is a bilateral military drill between India and France, scheduled to take place at La Cavalerie, France, from June 18 to July 1, 2025.
- Exercise Series: This marks the 8th edition of the biennial joint exercise, reflecting a strong and ongoing defence partnership between the two nations.
- Objectives: The drill focuses on enhancing the joint capability to conduct multi-domain operations, especially in sub-conventional warfare scenarios.
- Core Training Areas: It includes sessions on tactical coordination, joint operational planning, and counter-terrorism techniques.
- Goals: To deepen military cooperation, foster mutual trust, and build interoperability and camaraderie between the Indian and French armed forces.
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| [UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?
1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is set to launch CROPIC (Collection of Real Time Observations & Photo of Crops)- a digital initiative that uses field photography and AI-based models to monitor crop health and automate loss assessment.
What is CROPIC?
- Overview: CROPIC is a digital initiative launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- Objective: The aim of CROPIC is to monitor crop health, assess crop losses, and assist with insurance payouts under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
- Technology Integration: It leverages field photography, artificial intelligence, and a cloud-based analysis system to streamline crop monitoring.
- Process: CROPIC is designed to automate the crop loss assessment process and improve the transparency and speed of compensation to farmers.
- Pilot Timeline: The initiative will be piloted during Kharif 2025 and Rabi 2025–26, and expanded nationwide in 2026.
- Implementation: The project is funded through the Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT) under PMFBY, which has an allocation of ₹825 crore.
Key Features of CROPIC:
- Mobile App-Based Data Collection: Crops are photographed 4–5 times per season using the CROPIC mobile app, with images collected by farmers and field officials.
- Crowdsourced Inputs: Real-time photographs are crowdsourced directly from the field, ensuring up-to-date and location-specific crop data.
- AI-Based Photo Analysis: Images are uploaded to a cloud platform, where AI algorithms analyze them to detect:
- Crop type and stage
- Health status
- Visible damage or stress
- Web-Based Dashboard: Processed data is presented on a visual dashboard for use by government officials and policymakers.
- Insurance Integration: During claim processing under PMFBY, officials use the app to gather photographic evidence, automating crop loss verification.
- Crop Signature Database: CROPIC will help build a digital image library of crop types, aiding future research and development in agricultural analytics.
| [UPSC 2019] For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used?
1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location
2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location
3. Land surface temperatures of a specific location Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
A new study from researchers at IISER Bhopal has revealed how a single protein called BBX32 helps plants time the critical moment they emerge from darkness into light.
What is BBX32?
- Function: BBX32 is a plant protein that helps a seedling keep its protective hook closed as it pushes through the soil.
- Protection Mechanism: The hook shape shields the soft shoot tip in darkness; BBX32 extends this protection until it’s safe to open.
- Ethylene Activation: Underground, the plant hormone ethylene activates the BBX32 gene, signaling the seedling to stay protected.
How does it work?
- Light Stabilization: Once exposed to light, BBX32 is no longer broken down, allowing it to accumulate on one side of the hook.
- Protein Chain Reaction: BBX32 activates PIF3, which then activates HLS1, the protein that directly keeps the hook bent.
- Lab Testing: Plants were tested in different light types and sand to simulate real soil. Extra ethylene increased BBX32 activity.
- Mutant Comparison: Plants without BBX32 opened too early. Only 25% broke through sand, compared to 40% of normal and 80% with extra BBX32.
- Degradation Control: In darkness, COP1 breaks down BBX32. Ethylene slows this process. Light fully stabilizes BBX32.
- Coordinated Timing: The protein’s behavior is guided by light, hormone signals, and pressure, ensuring the hook opens at the right time.
Why is studying BBX32 important?
- Better Crop Survival: BBX32 can help develop crops that grow well in dense, wet, or compacted soils.
- Climate Adaptation: As climate change leads to tougher soil conditions, BBX32 can improve seedling emergence and survival.
- Boosting Yields: Supporting hook protection even slightly longer can lead to stronger early growth and higher productivity.
- Genetic Research: BBX32 is a potential target for gene editing in plants to improve resilience during germination.
- Broader Insight: Studying BBX32 helps us understand how plants balance internal signals with external cues for safe growth.
| [UPSC 2018] Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhabit water loss?
1. Hard and waxy leaves 2. Tiny leaves 3. Thorns instead of leaves
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 2 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
India is serving as a Vice President to the 2nd Session of the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (and Lighthouse Activities) (IALA) Council held in Nice, France.
About IALA:
- Overview: It is the global authority headquartered near Paris, France, responsible for standardizing and harmonizing marine aids to navigation (AtoN), including lighthouses, buoys, and electronic navigation systems.
- Establishment: IALA was founded in 1957 as a non-governmental organization and officially became an intergovernmental organization (IGO) on August 22, 2024, following ratification by 34 countries.
- Mission: Its mission is to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable maritime navigation by promoting uniform standards, modern technology, and global cooperation.
- Relevance: IALA plays a crucial role in reducing maritime accidents, protecting marine environments, and supporting developing nations through training and technical assistance.
Structure and Features:
- Membership: The organization consists of 80+ member countries, along with commercial maritime companies, training institutions, and scientific bodies.
- General Assembly: The supreme decision-making body, which meets every four years to define broad policies and strategic direction.
- Council: The executive body composed of 24 elected members, meeting twice annually to oversee day-to-day governance and technical progress.
- Technical Committees: Specialized groups focused on areas such as digital navigation technologies, marine engineering, Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), and sustainable navigation systems.
- Key Innovations:
- Maritime Buoyage System: Unified over 30 local buoyage systems into two global regions (Region A and Region B).
- Pioneered technologies like Differential GPS (DGPS), Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), VHF Data Exchange System (VDES), and e-navigation frameworks.
- Global Partnerships: IALA works closely with international bodies like the IMO (International Maritime Organization), IHO (International Hydrographic Organization), and ITU (International Telecommunication Union).
India and IALA:
- Founding Member: India is a founding member of IALA and has been a Council member since 1980, represented by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).
- Infrastructure Contributions: India has implemented Integrated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) across 12 major ports, enhancing navigational safety and efficiency.
- Upcoming Hosting: India will host the 3rd IALA General Assembly in December 2025 and the IALA Conference in 2027, both scheduled to take place in Mumbai.
| [UPSC 2017] Consider the following in respect of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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