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Type: Prelims Only

  • Digital India Initiatives

    India Post’s DHRUVA Framework

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

    Why in the News?

    Department of Posts has proposed the Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address (DHRUVA) as a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), supported by a draft amendment to the Post Office Act, 2023.

    What is DHRUVA?

    DHRUVA stands for Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address. It aims to standardise and digitally share physical addresses through virtual labels similar to email IDs.

    Nature

    Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) similar to Aadhaar and UPI. Based on consent based address sharing.

    Key Components

    • Digital Label: Proxy address like name@dhruva instead of full physical address.
    • DIGIPIN: 10 digit alphanumeric geo coded location pin developed by India Post.
    • Coverage: Every 12 square metre area in India has a unique DIGIPIN.

    Institutional Ecosystem

    • Address Service Providers: Generate virtual address labels.
    • Address Validation Agencies: Authenticate address information.
    • Address Information Agents: Manage user consent and sharing.
    • Governing Entity: NPCI like body to oversee the framework.

    How It Works

    • User authorises sharing of the virtual address label.
    • Platform receives descriptive address and geo coded DIGIPIN.
    • Ensures controlled access to address data.

    Major Use Cases

    • Logistics and delivery services.
    • E commerce platforms and gig economy platforms.
    • Consent based data sharing of addresses.
    • Seamless address updates during relocation.
    • Service discovery for doorstep services.

    Importance

    • Improves last mile delivery, especially in rural areas.
    • Reduces errors from incomplete or informal addresses.
    • Enhances user control over personal address data.

    Concerns and Criticism

    • Relies on personal data and user consent, unlike structure based address systems used globally.
    • May create incomplete datasets for urban planning if consent is denied.
    • Needs clear legislative backing.

    Associated Initiative

    • DIGIPIN: Open sourced, location coordinate based addressing system by India Post.

    Relevant Law

    • Post Office Act, 2023 and its proposed amendment.

    Prelims Pointers

    • DHRUVA proposed by Department of Posts.
    • DIGIPIN is location based, not a traditional PIN code.
    • DHRUVA links addresses to individuals, not surveyed structures.
    • Consent framework is the core feature.
    Consider the following: (2022)

    1. Aarogya Setu 

    2. CoWIN 

    3. DigiLocker 

    4. DIKSHA 

    Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms? 

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

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Iran

    Iran Seizes Oil Tanker in Gulf of Oman

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    Iran has seized an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, with 18 crew members from India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on board, citing illegal fuel smuggling.

    Key Details of the Incident

    • Seizure carried out by Iranian forces off the Sea of Oman coast
     • Reported by Fars News Agency
     • Vessel was allegedly carrying six million litres of contraband diesel fuel
     • The tanker had disabled its navigation systems
     • Action linked to enforcement against fuel smuggling operations

    Iran and Fuel Smuggling

    • Retail fuel prices in Iran are among the lowest globally
     • Creates strong incentives for cross border fuel smuggling
     • Iranian authorities frequently intercept vessels accused of illegal fuel transport in the Gulf region

    Regional and International Context

    • Iran seized another tanker last month for unauthorised cargo
     • Iran denied that the seizure was retaliatory
     • The incident follows a recent US seizure of an oil tanker near Venezuela
     • The US alleged that the ship was transporting oil linked to Iran and Venezuela

    US Sanctions Angle

    • US Treasury imposed sanctions on Venezuela in 2022
     • Sanctions linked to alleged ties with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC and Hezbollah

    Prelims Pointers

    • Gulf of Oman connects the Arabian Sea with the Strait of Hormuz
     • Region is strategically vital for global energy trade
     • Fuel smuggling is common in regions with subsidised energy prices
     • Maritime seizures often have geopolitical and security implications
     • Crew nationality issues raise consular and diplomatic concerns

    Consider the following statements: (2024)

    Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe. 

    Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. 

    Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? 

    (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I 

    (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I 

    (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect 

    (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

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  • Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

    BlueBird 6 Satellite and LVM 3

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T,Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO is scheduled to launch the BlueBird 6 satellite, developed by US based AST SpaceMobile, on 21 December 2025 using India’s heavy lift rocket LVM 3.

    About BlueBird 6 Satellite

    • Developer: AST SpaceMobile USA
     • Purpose: Provides direct to device internet connectivity, enabling normal mobile phones to access broadband without dependence on ground based cell towers
     • Weight: Around 6.5 tonnes, making it among the heaviest commercial satellites launched by ISRO
     • Orbit: Low Earth Orbit LEO
     • Technology: Equipped with one of the largest phased array antennas ever deployed in space, covering nearly 2,400 square feet
     • Capable of direct communication with standard smartphones
     • Significance: Enhances global mobile broadband connectivity, particularly in remote and rural regions
     • Strategic importance: Strengthens Indo US space cooperation and expands commercial space launch collaboration
     • Future impact: Helps bridge the digital divide by providing internet access in regions without cellular infrastructure

    About LVM 3

    • Full name: Launch Vehicle Mark 3
     • Also called GSLV Mk III or Bahubali
     • India’s heavy lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO
     • Designed for large satellite launches and human spaceflight missions

    With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, Consider the following statements: (2018)

    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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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II (Suvaran Maran)

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

    Why in the News?

    A commemorative postage stamp honouring Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II was recently released by the Vice President of India, highlighting his importance in early medieval South Indian history.

    About Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar

    • Reign period: c. 705 AD to 745 AD
     • Also known as Suvaran Maran and Shatrubhayankar
     • Belonged to the Mutharaiyar lineage of Tamil Nadu
     • Known as a brave warrior, able administrator, and patron of learning
     • Fought alongside Pallava king Nandivarman II in several battles
     • Represents the phase of powerful Pallava feudatories gaining autonomy

    Religious and Cultural Patronage

    • Patron of Shaivism
     • Jain monk Vimalachandra visited his court for religious and philosophical debates
     • Reflects religious tolerance and intellectual exchange

    Who were the Mutharaiyars

    • A prominent chieftain clan of early medieval Tamil Nadu
     • Served as feudatories of the Pallava dynasty
     • Gained political prominence as Pallava authority weakened
     • Eventually ruled as independent regional powers

    Territorial Influence

    • Dominated regions along the Cauvery river basin
     • Key areas: Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Perambalur, Tiruchirappalli
     • Controlled fertile agrarian zones and cultural centres

    Architectural Contributions

    • Renowned temple builders under Pallava influence
     • Major contributors to rock cut cave temples
     • Cave temple activity continued till the early ninth century
     • Acted as a link between Pallava and early Chola architecture

    Consider the following events in the history of India: (2020)

    (1) Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja (2) Establishment of Pallava power under Mahendravarman – I (3) Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka – I (4) Pala dynasty founded by Gopala What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time? (a) 2 – 1 – 4 – 3 (b) 3 – 1 – 4 – 2 (c) 2 – 4 – 1 – 3 (d) 3 – 4 – 1 – 2

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

    Bison Horn Maria Dance and Dandami Madia Tribe

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

    Why in the News?

    The Bison Horn Maria dance of the Dandami Madia tribe was highlighted during recent village festivals in Jagdalpur, Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, showcasing the living tribal cultural heritage of central India.

    Dandami Madia Tribe

    • Also known as Maria
     • Sub group of the Gond tribe
     • Inhabits Bastar region of southern Chhattisgarh
     • Major areas: Darbha, Tokapal, Lohandiguda and Dantewada
     • Traditionally forest dependent community
     • Livelihood, rituals and beliefs closely linked to nature
     • Cultural roots trace back to the historic Gondwana region

    Bison Horn Maria Dance

    • One of the most distinctive tribal dances of India
     • Performed by both men and women
     • Symbolises hunting traditions, village rituals and harmony with nature
     • Men wear horn shaped headgear made of bamboo decorated with bison horns, feathers, shells and coloured cloth
     • Bead necklaces and brass anklets are integral to male attire
     • Women wear handwoven saris, heavy silver and brass ornaments
     • Jewellery often includes rupee coins ranging from ₹1 to ₹10
     • Musical instruments include drums and bamboo flutes

    Prelims Pointers

    • Dandami Madia are part of the Gond tribal group
     • Bastar region is a major hub of tribal art, dance and ritual traditions
     • Bison Horn Maria dance is both a ritualistic and cultural performance
     • Reflects India’s intangible cultural heritage preserved through oral tradition and practice

    Consider the following pairs: Tribe → State (2013)

    (1). Limboo (Limbu) : Sikkim (2). Karbi : Himachal Pradesh (3). Dongaria Kondh : Odisha (4). Bonda : Tamil Nadu Which of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Wildlife Smuggling at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA)

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

    Why in the News?

    Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, intercepted a wildlife smuggling attempt involving endangered primates brought from Bangkok.

    Key Details

    • Two red shanked douc monkeys were recovered from a passenger arriving on flight TG 325 from Bangkok.
     • The animals were concealed inside check in baggage.
     • The passenger was arrested under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Customs Act, 1962.
     • The rescued primates were handed over to animal welfare authorities for rehabilitation.
     • Further investigation is ongoing.

    About Red Shanked Douc Monkey

    • Scientific name: Pygathrix nemaeus
     • Habitat: Tropical forests of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia
     • IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
     • Listed under CITES Appendix I
     • Known for distinctive red lower limbs and colourful facial markings

    Legal and International Framework

    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 provides legal protection to endangered species in India.
     • CITES regulates international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora.
     • Appendix I species face the strictest trade restrictions.

    Prelims Pointers

    • Airports are major transit points for wildlife trafficking.
    • Smuggling of CITES listed species is a serious international offence.
    • India is a signatory to CITES and enforces it through domestic laws.
    • Wildlife trafficking is among the top illegal trades globally after drugs and arms.
    In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply? (2017)

    (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger. 

    (b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and how it is impossible to prevent its extinction. 

    (c) It is endemic to a particular region of India. 

    (d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context.

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

    INAS 335 (Ospreys) and MH-60R Seahawk Helicopters

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Border Area Security Challenges

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy will commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), on December 17 at INS Hansa, Goa, marking a major step in naval modernisation.

    MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter

    • It is a US made, advanced multi role maritime helicopter.
       • Equipped with state of the art avionics, sensors and advanced weapon systems.
       • Capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.
       • Fully integrated with Indian Navy fleet operations.
       • Designed for sustained operations in open seas.

    Strategic Significance

    • Significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s operational readiness.
       • Extends the Navy’s operational reach, supporting blue water navy capabilities.
       • Strengthens India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
       • Acts as a deterrent against potential maritime threats.

    Prelims Pointers

    • INS Hansa is the Indian Navy’s premier naval air station located in Goa.
       • MH-60R helicopters form a key component of India’s maritime aviation modernisation programme.
    Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016)

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship 

    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine 

    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel 

    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

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  • Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

    Pyrite

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

    Why in the News?

    Scientists have discovered the oldest known evidence of fire making by prehistoric humans in England. The findings include heated clay, heat shattered flint handaxes and pieces of iron pyrite, which can generate sparks when struck against flint.

    About Pyrite

    • Pyrite is a brass yellow mineral with a bright metallic lustre.
       • Chemical composition: Iron sulfide (FeS₂).
       • It is the most common sulfide mineral found on Earth.
       • The name is derived from the Greek word pyr meaning fire, as pyrite emits sparks when struck by metal or flint.
       • Nodules of pyrite found in prehistoric burial mounds suggest its early use in fire making.
       • Commonly known as “Fool’s Gold” due to its superficial resemblance to gold.

    Distinguishing Pyrite from Gold

    • Pyrite is much lighter than gold.
       • It is harder than gold and cannot be scratched with a fingernail or a pocket knife.
       • Gold is soft, malleable and can be easily scratched.

    Occurrence

    • Found worldwide in diverse geological settings.
       • Occurs in sedimentary deposits, hydrothermal veins and as a constituent of metamorphic rocks.

    Uses of Pyrite

    • Source of iron and sulfur.
       • Used in the manufacture of sulfuric acid.
       • Used to produce iron sulfate.
       • Iron sulfate applications include nutritional supplements, ink, lawn conditioner, water treatment and flocculation, and moss control.
       • Iron sulfate derived from pyrite is used in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
       • Some varieties contain microscopic gold and can be mined as a gold ore.

    Prelims Pointer

    • Pyrite’s ability to produce sparks made it an important material for early human fire technology.
    Ilmenite and rutile, abundantly available in certain coastal tracts of India, are rich sources of which one of the following? (2023)

    (a) Aluminium 

    (b) Copper 

    (c) Iron 

    (d) Titanium

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  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

    Pax Silica Initiative

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    The Congress party recently criticised the Prime Minister over India’s exclusion from the United States led strategic initiative known as Pax Silica, citing a perceived downturn in India US relations.

    About Pax Silica Initiative

    • Pax Silica is a US led strategic initiative aimed at building a secure, resilient and innovation driven global silicon supply chain.
       • The initiative covers the entire value chain from critical minerals and energy inputs to advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, artificial intelligence infrastructure and logistics.
       • The term Pax is derived from Latin, meaning peace, stability and long term prosperity.
       • Silica refers to the compound refined into silicon, a foundational element for computer chips that power AI and advanced digital technologies.
       • The initiative seeks to reduce coercive dependencies, protect critical materials and capabilities essential for AI, and enable trusted nations to develop and deploy emerging technologies at scale.

    Member Countries

    • Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Israel, United Arab Emirates and Australia

    Core Objectives

    • Jointly address vulnerabilities and opportunities in AI related supply chains.
       • Cooperation in critical minerals, semiconductor design, fabrication and packaging.
       • Strengthen logistics, transportation, compute infrastructure and energy grids.
       • Promote new joint ventures and strategic co investment opportunities.
       • Protect sensitive technologies and critical infrastructure from undue access or control by countries of concern.
       • Build trusted technology ecosystems including ICT systems, fibre optic cables, data centres, foundational AI models and applications.

    Significance for Prelims

    • Focuses on strategic technology security rather than a formal treaty.
       • Closely linked to semiconductor and AI geopolitics.
       • Reflects US efforts to align technology supply chains among trusted partners.
    With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (2020)

    (1) Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units 

    (2) Create meaningful short stories and songs 

    (3) Disease diagnosis 

    (4) Text-to-Speech Conversion 

    (5) Wireless transmission of electrical energy 

    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

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  • Wetland Conservation

    New Ramsar Sites in India

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

    Why in the News?

    Siliserh Lake in Rajasthan and Kopra Jalashay in Chhattisgarh have been designated as Ramsar Sites, recognising their international importance as wetlands.

    Siliserh Lake

    Location: Alwar district, Rajasthan
     Type: Human made lake
     Setting: Located within the buffer zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve
     History: Constructed in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh to supply drinking water to Alwar city
     Climate Zone: Semi arid region
     Ecological Significance:
     • Important water source in a dry landscape
     • Supports diverse wetland and terrestrial biodiversity

    Fauna:

    • Around 149 bird species
     • 17 mammal species
     • Vulnerable species: River tern
     • Endangered species: Tiger
     • Supports more than 1 percent of the biogeographic population of Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)

    Kopra Jalashay

    Location: Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh
     Type: Reservoir
     River System: Upper catchment of the Mahanadi River
     Hydrological Importance:
     • Strong hydrological and ecological connectivity
     • Creates a mosaic of wetland habitats

    Avifaunal Importance:

    • Supports over 60 migratory bird species
     • Used for nesting, feeding and as a stopover site

    Fauna:

    • Vulnerable species: Greater Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga)
     • Endangered species: Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus)

    Ramsar Convention Key Point for Prelims

    • Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for conservation and wise use of wetlands
       • Adopted in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran
       • India is a contracting party since 1982
    If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply? (2014)

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference. 

    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres from the edge of the wetland. 

    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed. 

    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’

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