Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Avian Influenza Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Ongoing avian influenza outbreaks in animals are raising concerns about the potential risks to humans, according to a joint statement issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). About Avian Influenza:- IMAGE SOURCE: The Conversation Avian influenza or bird flu refers to the disease caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) Influenza A viruses. (UPSC CSE: Bird flu) Influenza viruses There are four types of influenza viruses: types A, B, C and D. Influenza A viruses: infect humans and many different animals. Influenza B viruses: circulate among humans and cause seasonal epidemics. Influenza C viruses: can infect both humans and pigs but infections are generally mild and are rarely reported. Influenza D viruses: primarily affect cattle and are not known to infect or cause illness in people. Influenza A viruses are the only influenza viruses known to cause flu pandemics. These are divided into subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). These subtypes include: A(H5N1), A(H7N9), and A(H9N2). H5N1 virus occurs mainly in birds and is highly contagious among them. HPAI Asian H5N1 is especially deadly for poultry. Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease. It can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with bird flu viruses have occurred. Risk: The primary risk factor for humans is exposure to infected live or dead poultry or contaminated environments, such as live bird markets. Prevention:- Controlling the disease in the animal source is critical to decreasing the risk to humans. Travelers to countries and people living in countries with known outbreaks should avoid poultry farms, entering areas where poultry may be slaughtered, and contaminated with faeces from poultry or other animals. Quality surveillance in both animal and human populations, thorough investigation of every human infection and risk-based pandemic planning is essential. Treatment:- Antiviral drugs: Neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir, and zanamivir, can reduce the duration of viral replication and improve prospects of survival. Treatment period: recommended for a minimum of 5 days but can be extended until there is satisfactory clinical improvement. Vaccination:- No vaccine for the prevention of avian influenza infections in humans is commercially available. (UPSC CSE: Vaccine Development for COVID-19) MUST READ: AB-PMJAY and COVID treatment SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (2022) The Serum Institute of India produced a COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using an mRNA platform. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine. Which of the statements given above is correct? (2022) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: (2023) It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with a special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four India Government Mint Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, the 120th anniversary of the Indian Government Mint was celebrated in Hyderabad with commemorative souvenir coins. Background:- These souvenir coins were crafted of silver, copper, and serve as a tribute to the rich legacy and contributions of the Indian Government Mint in the field of coinage and minting. Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd (SPMCIL) Chairman and Managing Director SK Sinha released the commemorative coins.  About Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd (SPMCIL) It is a wholly owned Schedule ‘A’ Miniratna Category-I company of t Government of India. Establishment: 2006. Ministry: Ministry of Finance. Objectives To be a leader in the manufacturing of currency, coins and security products through process excellence and innovation. Functions::- Conducting printing and minting activities of the Government of India. Developing state-of-art currency, coins and diversified security products in a transparent, cost-effective and efficient manner. Constantly focusing on benchmarking, process automation, applied R & D, indigenization and the triple bottom line people, planet and profit. Ensuring Employees, Customers and Stakeholders’ delight. Production of Currency and Bank Notes, Security Paper, Non-Judicial Stamp Papers, Postal Stamps & Stationery. It also includes producing Travel Documents viz. Passport and Visa, Security certificates, Cheques, Bonds, Warrants, Special Certificates with security features, Security Inks, Circulation & Commemorative Coins, Medallions, Refining of Gold & Silver, and Assay of Precious Metals. About India Government Mint:- IMAGE SOURCE: https://www.spmcil.com/en/about-us/#history India Government Mints (IGM) the units of Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd (SPMCIL). There are four such units:- India Government Mints (IGM) Mumbai: it was established in 1829, and is one of the oldest mints in India. India Government Mints (IGM) Hyderabad: The present mint started in 1997 at Cherlapally. India Government Mints (IGM) Kolkata: The new mint was established in 1952 and became a unit of SPMCIL during corporatization in 2006. India Government Mints (IGM) Noida: it is the only Mint established in the post-independence era.(UPSC CSE: Kushans and Coins in India) IGMs offer a comprehensive range of services covering every stage of the minting process – from planning to the finished products. They utilize advanced technology, innovation, quality and reliable delivery methods. They strictly follow global laboratory standards. (UPSC CSE: India’s Digital rupee: CBDC) MUST READ: Binance SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) In the context of finance, the term ‘beta’ refers to (2023) the process of simultaneous buying and selling of an asset from different platforms · an investment strategy of a portfolio manager to balance risk versus reward a type

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PM-MITRA Syllabus Prelims –Government Schemes Context: In a recent tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the PM-MITRA mega textile parks will bolster productivity, foster innovation and generate many employment opportunities. About PM-MITRA:- IMAGE SOURCE: yojanapandit.com Launched: 2021. The setting up of 7 PM MITRA Parks was announced in the Union Budget for 2021-22 and later approved by the Central Government. (UPSC CSE: PM MITRA) Ministry: Ministry of Textiles Objective: It aspires to fulfil the vision of building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat and to position India strongly on the Global textiles map. Key Features of PM MITRA:- The PM MITRA scheme is inspired by the 5F vision – Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign. PM MITRA Parks will be developed by a Special Purpose Vehicle which will be owned by the State Government and Government of India in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) Mode. (UPSC CSE: PM MITRA Parks) The Park will have:- Core Infrastructure: Incubation Centre & Plug & Play facility, Developed Factory Sites, Roads, Power, Water and Waste Water system, Common Processing House & CETP and other related facilities e.g. Design Centre, Testing Centers etc. Support Infrastructure: Workers’ hostels & housing, Logistics Park, warehousing, medical, training & skill development facilities. Competitiveness Incentive Support (CIS) of ₹300 Crore will also be provided to each PM MITRA park for the early establishment of textiles manufacturing units in PM MITRA Park. Advantages of PM MITRA:- PM MITRA Parks aim to have world-class industrial infrastructure. They will attract cutting-edge technology and boost FDI and local investment in the textiles sector. The Parks offer an opportunity to create an integrated textiles value chain right from spinning, weaving, processing/dyeing and printing to garment manufacturing at 1 location. Integrated Textile Value chain at 1 location will reduce the logistics cost of the Industry. Intended to generate 1 lakh direct and 2 lakh indirect employment per park. 7 Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks are aimed at helping India to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9: “Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”. MUST READ: Textile Industry in India SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana: (2023) It is a safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Q.2) In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments and lay-offs in factories employing workers? (2022) Central Statistics Office Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Labour Bureau National Technical Manpower Information System Bhoomi Samman 2023 Syllabus Prelims –Important Awards Context: As per recent announcements, President Droupadi Murmu will present Bhoomi Samman awards in New Delhi. Background:- Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister stated this event is extremely significant for Revenue and Registration functionaries of the State, who would receive the “Bhoomi Samman” for the first time in the last 75 years for their outstanding performance. He further said that the “Bhoomi Samman” Scheme is a fine example of Centre-State cooperative federalism based on trust and partnership. About Bhoomi Samman 2023:- Launched: 2023. Presented by: President of India. Presented at: Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development. Selection Process:- The grading has been done on the basis of the performance of Districts as reflected in the Management Information System (MIS) of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) and as reported by the State/UT Governments. (UPSC CSE: SVAMITVA Scheme) Platinum Grading is given to the Districts which have completed saturation i.e. 100% targets in the respective core components of DILRMP. (UPSC CSE: Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) scheme) Nine State Secretaries and 68 District Collectors of the various Districts will be presented with “Bhoomi Samman” recognizing their efforts in achieving outstanding performances.  MUST READ: Revised Rural Area Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (RADPFI) Guidelines SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) Statement-I: India accounts for 3·2% of the global export of goods. Statement-II: Many local companies and some foreign companies operating in India have taken advantage of India’s ‘Production-linked Incentive’ scheme. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct Q.2) With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: (2022) Private and public hospitals must adopt it. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately. It has seamless portability across the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system Syllabus Prelims –International Relations/Economy Context: Recently, India and UAE signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding on Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system. Background:- The agreement was signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of the UAE. Objective: to revolutionize cross-border transactions between the two nations. About Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system:- IMAGE SOURCE: blogspot.com The Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system enables exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies. The LCS system between India and UAE allows for the use of the Indian Rupee and UAE Dirham in bilateral trade. It is India’s first-ever LCS arrangement. This innovative system is expected to have a transformative impact on transaction costs and processing time. It is anticipated to have a ripple effect on global economic engagements, encouraging

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Export Preparedness Index 2022 report Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, NITI Aayog released the Export Preparedness Index 2022 report. About Export Preparedness Index 2022 report:- Released by: Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog. This is the third edition of the Export Preparedness Index (EPI). EPI is a comprehensive tool which measures the export preparedness of the States and UTs in India. (UPSC CSE: Export Preparedness Index 2021) Objectives of the report:– To present a comprehensive picture of a state’s and UT’s export preparedness. To highlight the achievements of states/UTs and encourage peer learning among the states/UTs. To uphold the spirit of competitive federalism. Assessment Process:- EPI assess the performance of the States and UTs across four pillars – Policy, Business Ecosystem, Export Ecosystem, and Export Performance. Each pillar is composed of sub-pillars, which in turn capture a state’s performance using relevant indicators. Policy Pillar It evaluates states’ and UTs’ performance based on its adoption of export-related policy ecosystem at a state and district level as well as the institutional framework surrounding the ecosystem. Significance of the report:- It gives an overview of the country’s sector-specific export performance. It highlights the need to develop our districts as export hubs in the country and undertakes a district-level analysis of merchandise exports in the country. The index undertakes a comprehensive analysis of States and UTs across export-related parameters in order to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Key Highlights of Export Preparedness Index 2022 report:- The report discusses India’s export performance amid the prevailing global trade context in FY22. (UPSC CSE: Export Preparedness Index 2020) The coastal states have performed well. Top performers: Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat. The higher average of coastal states represents their better preparedness and higher contribution to national export. 73 per cent of districts in the country have an export action plan, and over 99 per cent are covered under the One District One Product scheme. One District One Product scheme: The initiative aims to select, brand, and promote at least One Product from each District (One District – One Product) of the country for enabling holistic socioeconomic growth across all regions. (UPSC CSE: One District One Product(ODOP)) It was launched by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. 100 districts in the country are responsible for nearly 87 per cent of the country’s export. Lack of adequate transport connectivity: the report mentions that the absence of air connectivity hampers the movement of goods across regions especially in the landlocked states. Recommendations of the report:- For the states which are lagging in terms of export commission, the central government should extend support to enable them to build the necessary ecosystem to facilitate their export. Indian states need to invest in research and development for developing market-specific products and improving product quality. MUST READ: India’s Agricultural and processed food products exports SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) Statement-I: India accounts for 3·2% of the global export of goods. Statement-II: Many local companies and some foreign companies operating in India have taken advantage of India’s ‘Production-linked Incentive’ scheme. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct Q.2) In the context of finance, the term ‘beta’ refers to (2023) the process of simultaneous buying and selling of an asset from different platforms · an investment strategy of a portfolio manager to balance risk versus reward a type of systemic risk that arises where perfect hedging is not possible a numeric value that measures the fluctuations of a stock to changes in the overall stock market. Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIC) Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: As per the recent data of the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIC), more than 20 lakh new employees enrolled in ESI Scheme in May. About Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIC):- The Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESI)is an integrated measure of social Insurance embodied in the Employees’ State Insurance Act, of 1948. (UPSC CSE: ESIC) Implementing Agency: Employees’ State Insurance Corporation. Applicability of ESI Scheme:- It applies to factories and other establishments Road Transport, Hotels, Restaurants, Cinemas, Newspaper, Shops, and Educational/Medical Institutions wherein 10 or more persons are employed. However, in some States threshold limit for coverage of establishments is still Beneficiary Selection:- Employees of the aforesaid categories of factories and establishments, drawing wages up to Rs.15,000/- a month, are entitled to social security cover under the ESI Act. ESI Corporation has also decided to enhance the wage ceiling for coverage of employees under the ESI Act from Rs.15,000/- to Rs.21,000. Coverage of the ESI Scheme:- 1952: In the beginning, the ESI Scheme was implemented at just two industrial centers in the country, namely Kanpur and Delhi Funding of ESI Scheme:- The Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESI Scheme) is financed by contributions from employers and employees. The rate of contribution by employer is 3.25% of the wages payable to employees. The employees’ contribution is at the rate of 75% of the wages payable to an employee. Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Establishment: 1952. It is a state-run organization set up under the Employee State Insurance Act of 1948. Objective: It is responsible for overseeing the ESI plan. Ministry: The Ministry of Labour & Employment. HQ: New Delhi. Function: It provides socio-economic protection to the worker population and immediate dependent or family covered under the ESI scheme. MUST READ: Finding Unemployment Benefits SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments, and lay-offs in factories employing workers? (2022) Central Statistics Office Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Labour Bureau National Technical Manpower Information System Q.2)  Consider the following statements with reference to India: (2023) According to the ‘Micro, Small

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Veer Savarkar International Airport Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the integrated terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport, at Port Blair, Andaman &Nicobar. . About Veer Savarkar International Airport It is located 2 km south of Port Blair. It is the main airport of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. In 2002, Port Blair Airport at Andaman and Nicobar’s Island was renamed after Veer Savarkar International Airport. The Airport’s architecture is inspired by nature. It features a shell-shaped architecture that depicts the sea and islands. The airport design was structured keeping in mind the ecological aspect of the island and some of the sustainability features. These include like a double insulated roofing system to reduce heat gain and skylights to provide maximum inlet of abundant natural sunlight during day time to reduce artificial light usage inside the building. It is a civil airport, and its facilities are shared with the Indian Navy. Administration: The terminal is managed by the Airports Authority of India, while the traffic is handled by the Indian Navy. (UPSC CSE: Reforms In Civil Aviation Industry) About Veer Savarkar He was a freedom fighter and politician. Born May 28, 1883. He was born in Maharashtra’s Nashik. Death: February 26, 1966. Savarkar entered the Hindu Mahasabha and popularized Chandranath Basu’s term Hindutva to establish a collective “Hindu” identity as an essence of Bharat (India). He coined the Hindu nationalist ideology of He founded the organizations Abhinav Bharat Society and Free India Society. Abhinav Bharat Society (Young India Society): it was an Indian Independence secret society founded by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and his brother Ganesh Damodar Savarkar in The Free India Society: it was formed by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in London in 1906. He organized a youth group named ‘Mitra Mela’ in 1899. He was the president of Hindu Mahasabha from 1937 to 1943. He was the first to acknowledge the mutiny of 1857 as the first struggle for Independence. He wrote the book ‘The History of the War of Indian Independence’. He championed atheism and rationality and disapproved of orthodox Hindu belief. He even dismissed cow worship as superstitious. He created the Aryan Weekly, a handwritten weekly in which he published illuminating articles on patriotism, literature, history, and science. He was sentenced to 50 years in the cellular jail of Andamans for revolting against the Morley-Minto reforms (Indian Councils Act 1909) in 1911. He was a critic of the Indian National Congress and its acceptance of India’s partition and of Mahatma Gandhi. MUST READ: Kushinagar International Airport SOURCE: AIR  PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) By which one of the following Acts was the Governor General of Bengal, designated as the Governor General of India? (2023) The Regulating Act The Pitt’s India Act The Charter Act of 1793 The Charter Act of 1833 Q.2) Consider the following freedom fighters (2023) Barindra Kumar Ghosh Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee Rash Behari Bose Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party? 1 and 2 2 only 1 and 3 3 only Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) Syllabus Prelims –Environment and Ecology Context: The 19th session of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) was held in Rome, Italy. About Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA):- Established in 1983. The Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) is the only permanent intergovernmental body focused on conserving all types of biodiversity for food and agriculture. Members: The Commission consists of 179 Member States and the European Union. Membership of the Commission is open to all Members of FAO. (UPSC CSE: 42nd Session of FAO Conference) Objective: to promote international policies for the sustainable use and conservation of genetic resources for food and agriculture, while also ensuring that benefits derived from biodiversity are fairly and equitably shared. The Commission offers a unique platform for its members and other stakeholder to promote a world without hunger by fostering the use and development of the whole portfolio of biodiversity important to food security and rural poverty. The CGRFA meets regularly to address policies on genetic resources for food and agriculture.(UPSC CSE: – GM Crops and their regulation) 19th session of the CGRFA Venue: FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.(UPSC CSE: Intergovernmental Technical Working Group on Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (WG AnGR)) Date: from 17 to 21 July 2023. Organized by: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Focus areas: the state of the world’s forest and plant genetic resources, access and benefit-sharing policies, and biotechnologies for the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources. The Commission will also discuss:- a Framework for Action on Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture. the role of genetic resources for food and agriculture in mitigation of and adaptation to climate change microorganism and invertebrate genetic resources, including pollinator and biological control agents MUST READ: Food Security in India SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH  PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) Statement-I: According to the United. Nations ‘World Water Development Report, 2022’, India extracts more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater withdrawal each year. Statement-II: India needs to extract more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater each year to satisfy the drinking water and sanitation needs of almost 18% of the world’s population living in its territory. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2022) “The Climate Group” is an international non-profit organization that drives climate action by building large networks and running them. The International Energy Agency in partnership with the Climate Group launched a global initiative “EP100”. EP100 brings together leading companies committed to driving innovation in energy

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, a review meeting on the Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme was held. Background:- The Secretary, of the Department of Financial Services exhorted the banks to expeditiously clear the sanction and disbursement pendency of applications. He further urged banks to devise a strategy and step up the efforts to increase the digital onboarding of street vendors and scale up their digital payments. About PM SVANidhi scheme:- IMAGE SOURCE: makspay.com Launched in 2020. (UPSC CSE: PM SVANidhi scheme) Ministry: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs. Implementation agency: Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). Objective: Providing affordable Working Capital loans to street vendors to resume their livelihoods that have been adversely affected due to the Covid-19 lockdown. The scheme intends to facilitate collateral-free working capital loans of up to INR10,000/- of one-year tenure, to approximately 50 lakh street vendors. It is a Central Sector Scheme. Central sector schemes: schemes with 100% funding by the Central government and implemented by the Central Government machinery. Duration of the scheme: The duration of the scheme initially was until March 2022. It has been extended till December 2024.  Features of the scheme:- Loan limit: Vendors can avail a working capital loan of up to Rs. 10,000.This loan is repayable in monthly instalments for the tenure of one year. No collateral is required to avail of the loan. Processing fee: There is no processing fee to apply for the scheme, making it cost-effective for street vendors. Loan repayment period: one year. Interest subsidy: On timely/ early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy @ 7% per annum. It will be credited to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfers on a quarterly basis.  Eligibility Criteria:- The eligible vendors are identified as per the following criteria:- Certificate of Vending/Identity Card: Street vendors in possession of a Certificate of Vending/Identity Card issued by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The vendors, who have been identified in the survey but have not been issued a Certificate of Vending/Identity Card; Provisional Certificate of Vending would be generated for such vendors through an IT-based Platform. Urban Local Bodies(ULBs) are encouraged to issue such vendors the permanent Certificate of Vending and Identification Card immediately and positively within a period of one month Letter of Recommendation: Street Vendors, left out of the ULB-led identification survey or who have started vending after completion of the survey and have been issued a Letter of Recommendation (LoR) to that effect by the ULB/Town Vending Committee (TVC). Advantages of the scheme:- The scheme promotes digital transactions through cash-back incentives up to an amount of Rs. 100 per month. The scheme encourages entrepreneurship. It also helps to create employment opportunities. (UPSC CSE: Programme of Socio-Economic Profiling of PM SVANidhi launched) MUST READ: SVANidhi se Samriddhi program SOURCE: AIR  PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: (2023) It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for preschool children, adolescents and pregnant women. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with a special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Q.2) Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana: (2023) It is a safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Recently, the Government set the target for building more than one crore houses by the end of 2024 under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) About Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U):- Launched in 2015. (UPSC CSE: PMAY-U) Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Objective: to improve the affordability of land and property amidst the continuous surge in prices. It is a Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) and is also known by the name “Housing for All by 2022″. Individuals availing loans to buy residential property or land or to construct homes would be eligible for interest subsidies on the said credit. Eligibility under the scheme:- Economically Weaker Section (EWS): households with annual income up to ₹ 3, 00,000. Low-Income Group (LIG): households with annual income between ₹ 3, 00,001 and ₹ 6, 00,000. Middle Income Group-1 (MIG-1): households with annual income between ₹ 6, 00,001 and ₹ 12, 00,000. Middle Income Group-2 (MIG-2): households with annual income between ₹ 12, 00,001 and ₹ 18, 00,000. The applicant or his/her family members must not own a pucca house in any part of the country. The town/city in which the family resides must be covered under the scheme. The family MUST NOT have previously availed the benefits of any housing-related schemes set up by the Government of India. Benefits under the scheme:- Slum rehabilitation: of eligible Slum Dwellers with the participation of private developers using land as a resource. Promotion of Affordable Housing: through Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS). Affordable Housing in Partnership with Public & Private Sectors: Central Assistance per EWS house in projects where 35% of houses are for EWSs. Subsidy for Beneficiary-Led individual house construction /enhancement: For individuals of the EWS category requiring individual houses (separate project for such beneficiaries) MUST READ: Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs) as a sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (2019) Department of Science and Technology Ministry of Labour and Employment NITI

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) National Co-Operative Consumers Federation of India Limited (NCCF) Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, the Department of Consumer Affairs directed the National CO-Operative Consumers Federation of India Limited (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) to sell tomatoes at a retail price of 70 rupees per kg. Background:- The tomatoes procured by NCCF and NAFED had been retailed at 90 rupees per kg initially and then reduced to 80 rupees per kg from 16th July. The reduction to 70 rupees per kg will further benefit the consumers. About National Co-Operative Consumers Federation of India Limited (NCCF) Establishment: 1965. Ministry: Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. HQ: New Delhi. NCCF is the apex body of consumer cooperatives in the country. (UPSC CSE: India’s Cooperative Sector) It is registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002. Shareholding: Government of India owns 42%. Objectives of NCCF:- Render technical guidance and assistance to improve and increase their operation and management efficiency. Create and promote the formation of cadres of employees. Hold seminars, conferences, and meetings and undertake publicity, propaganda and similar other activities. Establish trade connections with manufacturers, their authorized distributors and suppliers/dealers including Government agencies and cooperative organizations. Import and export of agricultural commodities. Collect and disseminate necessary marketing intelligence for the benefit of its member institutions. Establish testing laboratories for testing consumer goods. To act as agents of Central/State Government or undertaking/corporation or cooperative institutions or any business enterprises for the purpose of sale, storage and distribution of consumer goods approved by the Board of Directors from time to time entrusted by Central/State Governments. National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) Establishment: 1958. (UPSC CSE: NAFED) Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. HQ: New Delhi. It is an apex organization of marketing cooperatives for agricultural produce in India. It is registered under the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002. Objectives: to promote Cooperative marketing of agricultural produce to benefit the farmers. Agricultural farmers are the main members of NAFED. They have the authority to say in the form of members of the General Body in the working of NAFED. MUST READ: Primary agricultural credit societies (PACS) SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) India has more arable area than China. The proportion of irrigated area is more in India as compared to China. The average productivity per hectare in Indian agriculture is higher than that in China: How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (2020) Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies Social Capital Development Free electricity supply to farmers Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system Setting up cold storage facilities by the governments. In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, and 5 only 1, 3, 4, and 5 only 2, 3, and 6 only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Black Sea Grain initiative Syllabus Prelims –International Relations Context: Recently, India has voiced support for the UN’s efforts in continuing the Black Sea Grain initiative. Background:- India’s reaction came after Russia announced it was terminating the implementation of the UN-brokered deal that allowed the export of grain and related foodstuffs and fertilizers from Ukrainian ports. About the Black Sea Grain initiative:- IMAGE SOURCE: UN Signed in 2022. (UPSC CSE: Black Sea Grain Initiative) Signed at Istanbul. The deal, brokered by the United Nations (UN) and Turkey. Objective: to limit food price inflation emanating from supply chain disruptions because of Russian actions in the world’s ‘breadbasket’ by ensuring an adequate supply of grains. Time Period: Initially it was stipulated for a period of 120 days. It was to provide a safe maritime humanitarian corridor for the Ukrainian export of food grains. Need for the deal:- Ukraine is one of the world’s largest grain exporters. However, since Russia invaded Ukraine, exports of grain, food and fertilizers from both countries have been significantly hit. (UPSC CSE: Russia-Ukraine War.) The disruption in supplies resulted in rising prices. This added to the burden of an already existing food crisis in some countries. In a bid to address this crisis and ensure the smooth movement of supplies amidst the ongoing war, the United Nations and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative on 22 July 2022. The central idea was to calm markets by ensuring an adequate supply of grains, thereby limiting food price inflation. About the Black Sea:- IMAGE SOURCE: Britannica Location: between Eastern Europe and Western Asia in the Atlantic Ocean. Major rivers: Danube, Dnieper, and Don. Bordering countries: Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Important water bodies around the Black Sea:- The Black Sea ultimately drains into the Mediterranean Sea via the Turkish Straits and the Aegean Sea. Bosporus Strait: connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Strait of the Dardanelles: connects the Sea of Marmara to the Aegean Sea. Kerch Strait: connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov. MUST READ: Loss of the ‘Moskva’ & Black Sea SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following countries: (2023) Bulgaria Czech Republic Hungary Latvia Lithuania Romania How many of the above-mentioned countries share a land border with Ukraine? Only two Only three Only four Only five Q.2) The term “Levant” often heard in the news roughly corresponds to which of the following regions? (2022) Region along the eastern Mediterranean shores The region along North African shores stretches from Egypt to Morocco The region along the Persian Gulf and Horn of Africa The entire coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea Index of Industrial Production (IIP) Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recent reports show that the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew by 5.2 per cent in May 2023 from 4.2 per

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Recently, the Government has set a target to open ten thousand Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) by March 2024. About Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana(PMBJP):- Launched:2008. (PMBJP) Historical Background:- It was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the name Jan Aushadhi Campaign in 2008. 2015: It was re-launched as ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana’ (PMJAY). 2016: it was again renamed “Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana” (PMBJP). Ministry: Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Implementing Agency: the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI). Objectives of PMBJP: to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to people through special Kendras known as Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra. Funding: Financial Support is provided by the government to eligible NGOs/Trusts/agencies/individuals to establish Jan Aushadhi stores. Benefit of PMBJP: The scheme ensures easy reach to affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country. Salient Features of PMBJP:- Ensure access to quality medicines. Create awareness about generic medicines through education and publicity so that quality is not synonymous with only high prices. The scheme ensures easy reach to affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country. Create demand for generic medicines by improving access to better healthcare through low treatment cost and easy availability wherever needed in all therapeutic categories. Janaushadhi Sugam facilitates the public by providing a digital platform at the tip of their fingers. Jan Aushadhi Sugam: a mobile app that helps in locating the nearest Janaushadhi Kendra and the availability of medicines with its price. Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) has been established for co-coordinating procurement, supply and marketing of generic drugs through the Jan Aushadhi Stores. (Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra (PMJK)) The quality, safety and efficacy of medicines are ensured to the required standards before the same are supplied to Supers stockists /Jan Aushadhi Stores from the Warehouse. MUST READ: Ayushman Bharat PMJAY SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana (2023) It is a safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Q.2) Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: (2023) It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for preschool children, adolescents and pregnant women. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with a special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Advance Authorisation Scheme Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) implemented the Advance Authorisation Scheme. Background:- The Scheme was implemented under the Foreign Trade Policy. It allows duty-free import of inputs for export purposes. About Advance Authorisation Scheme:- Launched: 2015. (Advance Authorization Scheme (AAS)) Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Objective: to make India’s products competitive in the global market. It is a type of duty exemption scheme introduced by the Government of India under the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020. (New Foreign Trade Policy) Salient Features of AAS:- Under this scheme, exemption from the payment of import duties is given to raw materials/inputs required for the manufacture of export products. They are not allowed to sell the products in the domestic market. Validity: Advance Authorization is valid for 12 months from the date of issue of such Authorization. Composition fee formula: The revised composition fee formula is based on a specific rate for different levels of the ‘CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value of authorization. The fees levied under these 3 slabs:- ₹5,000 for a cost, insurance, freight (CIF) value of advance authorization license valued at up to ₹2 crores. ₹10,000 for a value between ₹2 crore and 10 crores ₹15,000 for value over ₹10 crores. The simplification of calculations for composition fees helps in automation and faster service delivery by making the process more efficient and easier to understand. The eligibility of inputs is determined by Sector-specific Norms Committees based on input-output norms. The quantity of inputs allowed for a given product is based on specific norms defined for that export product, which considers the waste generated in the manufacturing process. DGFT provides a sector-wise list of Standard Input-Output Norms (SION) under which the exporters may choose to apply. Benefits of Advance Authorization Scheme:- When duties paid on raw materials are saved, it automatically brings down the cost of the final export product. About Directorate General of Foreign Trade:- It is an attached office of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Headed by: Director General of Foreign Trade. HQ: New Delhi. Inception: Keeping in line with liberalization and globalization and the overall objective of increasing exports, DGFT has since been assigned the role of “facilitator”. Objective: implementing the Foreign Trade Policy and promoting India’s exports. Functions of DGFT:- It also issues licenses to exporters. It monitors their corresponding obligations through a network of 25 Regional Offices. All regional offices provide facilitation to exporters in regard to developments in International Trade i.e. WTO agreements, Rules of Origin and anti-dumping issues, etc. It helps exporters in their import and export decisions in an internationally dynamic environment. MUST READ: Conditional Market Authorization SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements: (2022) An increase in Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) indicates the appreciation of the rupee. An increase in the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) indicates an improvement in trade

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Tele MANAS Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: The Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele MANAS), helpline has reached a significant milestone. Background:- Over 200,000 calls received on the Tele-MANAS Helpline since its launch in October 2022. Over 42 functional Tele MANAS Cells across 31 States and UTs, the service is currently catering to 1,300+ calls per day in 20 languages. About Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele MANAS):- IMAGE SOURCE: MOHFW.GOV.IN Launched: 2022. Ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Acknowledging the mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and an urgent need to establish a digital mental health network that will withstand the challenges amplified by the pandemic, the Government of India announced National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget 2022-23. Objectives of Tele MANAS:- To enable people to seek support for their mental health issues while maintaining the anonymity of the callers, thereby reducing the stigma generally surrounding mental health issues. To exponentially scale up the reach of mental health services to anybody who reaches out, across India, any time, by setting up a 24×7 tele-mental health facility in each of the States and UTs of the country To implement a full-fledged mental health-service network that, in addition to counselling, provides integrated medical and psychosocial interventions including video consultations with mental health specialists, e-prescriptions, follow-up services and linkages to in-person services. To extend services to vulnerable groups of the population and difficult-to-reach populations. Salient Features of Tele MANAS:- Tele MANAS will be organized as a two-tier system. (Tele-MANAS) Tier 1: comprise the State Tele MANAS cells, which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists. Tier 2: comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation. Toll-free helpline numbers: 14416 or 1-800-891-4416 with multi-language provision allows callers to select the language of their choice for availing the services. ( Address Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health) Eligibility:- Any individual with mental health issues can reach out to Tele MANAS services for help. Family members of persons with mental health issues can reach out for help. Grass-root health care providers/community health providerse., Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), and community volunteers from the community can reach out to Tele MANAS on behalf of an individual or individuals in that community with mental health issues. MUST READ: Need for stronger mental health strategy SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2023) Statement-I: India’s public sector healthcare System largely focuses on curative care with limited preventive, promotive and rehabilitative care. Statement-II: Under India’s decentralized approach to health care delivery, the States are primarily responsible for organizing health services. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct Q.2) Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: (2023) It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for preschool children, adolescents and pregnant women. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth. It provides for periodic deworming. to children and adolescents. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with a special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Cyber security Syllabus Prelims – Science and Technology Context: Recently, the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval participated in the Friends of BRICS meeting in Johannesburg and discussed the issue of cyber security. Background:- In addition to BRICS, the Friends of BRICS countries, which participated, are Belarus, Burundi, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Cuba. ( BRICS) About Cyber security:- IMAGE SOURCE: cyberin90.blogspot.com Cyber Security is protecting cyberspace including critical information infrastructure from cyberattacks, damage, misuse and economic espionage. (Cyber Security) A cyberattack is an attempt to gain illegal access to a computer system to cause damage.(Cyberattacks) Mode of cyberattack: It can occur on any modern digital device. Impact: can range from an inconvenience for an individual to global economic and social disruption.  Common cyber threats:- Malware: It is any kind of software that is designed to cause damage to a single computer, server, or computer network. Examples: Ransomware, Spyware, Worms, viruses, and Trojans are all varieties of malware. Spoofing: Cybercriminals try impersonating a bank’s URL with a website that is quite similar to the original one and has similar functions as well. (Cybersecurity & Banks) Phishing: it is attempting to obtain sensitive information such as credit card details, etc. for fraudulent activities, by disguising oneself as an authentic, trustworthy entity via electronic communication Denial of Service attacks: It is an attack meant to shut down a machine or network, making it inaccessible to its intended users. Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks: They occur when attackers insert themselves into a two-party transaction. Once the attackers interrupt the traffic, they can filter and steal data. Structured Query Language (SQL) Injection: SQL stands for a programming language used to communicate with databases. Many of the servers that store critical data for websites and services use SQL to manage the data in their databases. A SQL injection attack specifically targets such kinds of servers, using malicious code to get the server to divulge information it normally would not. Need for Cyber Security:- Others can inappropriately use for Individuals Photos, videos and other personal information shared by an individual on social networking sites. This can further lead to serious and even life-threatening incidents. For Business Organizations: Companies have a lot of data and information on their systems. A cyber-attack may lead to loss of competitive information (such as patents or original work) and loss of employees’/customers’ private data. This may result in a complete

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Cannabis Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Recently, Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed satisfaction with the research work conducted on Cannabis Project by CSIR-IIIM. Background:- Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, recently visited the cannabis cultivation field of CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu at its Chatha Farm. About Cannabis Project:- IMAGE SOURCE: vecteezy.com It is the first-ever cannabis medicine project in India. Location: Jammu. Implementing Agencies: CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine. CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine International Collaborations: It will be established in collaboration with Canada. This project will be the first major foreign investment in Jammu and Kashmir after it became a Union Territory (UT). Significance: The medicine prepared from Cannabis is used to produce pain-relief medicine. About CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine:- Established: 1941 Historical Background:- It was established as a research and production center, known as the Drug Research Laboratory of J&K State. It was later taken over by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) of Govt. of India in 1957 as Regional Research Laboratory, Jammu. The Mandate of Institute was redefined in 2007 and its name changed to the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM). Mandate: to discover new drugs and therapeutic approaches from Natural Products, both of plant and microbial origin, enabled by biotechnology, to develop technologies, drugs and products of high value for the national and international markets. Function and duties: Discovery of novel pharmacologically active natural products from plants and microbial species and translating them into drug leads and candidates by medicinal chemistry, preclinical pharmacology and clinical development. About Cannabis:- According to the WHO, cannabis is a generic term used to denote the several psychoactive preparations of the plant Cannabis sativa. ( UN Decides Cannabis Not A Dangerous Narcotic) Cannabis, weed, pot, and marijuana all refer to the same group of plants known for their relaxing and calming effects. Cannabis is made up of more than 120 components, which are known as cannabinoids. Medical uses:- The most common uses for medical cannabis are in severe or long-term pain, due to:- Chemotherapy (cancer treatments) Painful muscle spasms. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) Cancer-related pain Glaucoma HIV/AIDS-related weight loss or nausea/vomiting Huntington’s disease Inflammatory bowel disease Multiple sclerosis Muscle spasms Neuropathy Parkinson’s disease Short-term effects of cannabis:- relaxation giddiness experiencing things around you, such as sights and sounds, more intensely increased appetite altered perception of time and events focus and creativity Side effects:- coordination issues delayed reaction time nausea lethargy anxiety increased heart rate decreased blood pressure paranoia Long-term effects of cannabis:- Brain development: According to some research, people who start using cannabis in their teens may have more memory and learning problems than those who don’t use cannabis in their teens. Dependence: Some people can also become dependent on cannabis or even experience withdrawal symptoms when not using cannabis, such as irritability, low appetite, and mood swings. Respiratory problems: Smoking cannabis carries similar risks to smoking tobacco. Legal Regulations in India:- Under India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985, the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and use of cannabis is a punishable offence. (Status of Cannabis) The Act was enacted in 1985 which succeeded the Dangerous Drugs Act 1930. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is vested with the power to charge individuals in cases related to the illegal use and supply of narcotics. The NDPS Act defines:- Ganja: flowering or fruiting tops of the cannabis plant but it clearly excludes the seeds and leaves. Charas: the separated resin extracted from the cannabis plant. The Act illegalizes any mixture with or without any neutral material, of any of the two forms of cannabis, charas and ganja, or any drink prepared from it. The legislature left seeds and leaves of the cannabis plant out of the ambit of the Act because the serrated leaves of the plant have negligible tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. ‘Bhang’, which is a paste made out of the leaves of the cannabis plant is hence not outlawed. Similarly, CBD oil, an acronym for cannabidiol derived from the leaves of the cannabis plant, would not come under the NDPS Act. The NDPS Act does not permit the recreational use of cannabis in India. MUST READ: Drug Addiction SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following trees: (2023) Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus.) Mahua (Madhuca indica) Teak (Tectona grandis) How many of the above are deciduous trees? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2023) Some mushrooms have medicinal properties. Some mushrooms have psychoactive properties. Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties. Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two Only three All four Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Syllabus Prelims – Defense Context: Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Aviation Security Control Centre (ASCC) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in New Delhi. About ASCC:- It will monitor all threats and social media chatter for the 66 civil airports currently under the CISF’s security cover. It will access 24×7 real-time data monitoring and trend analysis of passengers and air traffic. It is equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as a data center, research and development lab and a war room to deal with emergencies. The center will get real-time feed from each of the security operations control centers (SOCCs) operational at these 66 airports. These include the “extremely busy and hyper-sensitive” civil aviation facilities in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jammu, Srinagar and Amritsar among others. The facility will provide “realistic” inputs about passenger traffic at a given point in time. It will help in mobilizing the resources for “optimum utilization. It will also monitor bomb threat calls, VVIP movements, other major incidents, passenger clearance time, and utilization of security gadgets and queue management systems among others at the 66 airports. About Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Establishment: 1969. (Ayushmaan CAPF) Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs. CISF is an armed force of the Union established under the

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Chandra Shekhar Azad Syllabus Prelims –Indian History/Important Personalities Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his tributes to Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Chandra Shekhar Azad on their birth anniversaries on July 23. Background:- Saluting Indian nationalist and freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Prime Minister Modi said in a tweet, Lokmanya Tilak shook the foundation of British rule by demanding complete Independence. While remembering revolutionary freedom fighter Chand Shekhar Azad fondly, the Prime Minister called him a gallant son of ‘Bharat Mata’ and a remarkable man. About Bal Gangadhar Tilak:- Birth: July 23, 1856. Birthplace: Ratnagiri (now in Maharashtra state), India. Death: August 1, 1920, in Mumbai. He was a scholar, mathematician, philosopher, and ardent nationalist who helped lay the foundation for India’s independence by building his own defiance of British rule into a national movement. He was also known as Lokmanya Tilak. His famous declaration “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it” served as an inspiration for future revolutionaries during India’s struggle for freedom. The British Government termed him the “Father of Indian Unrest”. (Sedition Law) Important Institutions Started by Tilak:- Deccan Education Society (1884): He was the founder of the Deccan Education Society along with his associate Gopal Ganesh Agarkar and others. Fergusson College (1885): He was one of the founders of the Fergusson College in Pune. The ideology of Tilak:- He vocalized his strong opposition to the moderate views of the Indian National Congress (INC) on self-rule. He maintained that simple constitutional agitation in itself was futile against the British. He wanted an armed revolt against the British. Following the partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon, Tilak wholeheartedly supported the Swadeshi (Indigenous) movement and the Boycott of British goods. Due to this fundamental difference in outlook, Tilak and his supporters came to be known as the extremist wing of INC. He was a great reformer and throughout his life, he advocated the cause of women’s education and women’s empowerment. Tilak proposed Grand celebrations on ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’ and ‘Shivaji Jayanti’. He envisioned these celebrations inciting a sense of unity and inspiring nationalist sentiment among Indians. Political ventures of Tilak:- 1890: He joined the Indian National Congress (INC). Tilak protested against the oppressive nature of the British efforts and wrote provocative articles on it in his newspapers on the epidemic of the Plague in Pune and adjacent regions. His article inspired the Chapekar brothers and they carried out the assassination of Commissioner Rand and Lt. Ayerst on June 22, Because of this, Tilak was imprisoned for 18 months on Sedition charges for inciting murder. Indian Home Rule League (1914): He founded the Indian Home Rule League. Lucknow Pact (1916): he concluded the Lucknow Pact with Mohammed Ali Jinnah, which provided for Hindu-Muslim unity in the nationalist struggle. Newspapers by Tilak:- Weeklies: Kesari (Marathi) and Mahratta (English) Books by Tilak:- Gita Rhasya Arctic Home of the Vedas. About Chandra Shekhar Azad:- Birth: 23rd July 1906. Birth Place: Alirajpur district of Madhya Pradesh. ( Chandra Shekhar Azad) Death: On February 27, 1931. He died at Azad Park in Allahabad on 27th February 1931. Chandrashekhar Azad was a great Indian freedom fighter. He was the mentor of Bhagat Singh. He is considered one of the greatest revolutionaries that India has produced. Political ventures of Chandrashekhar Azad:- 1921: when Gandhiji launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, Chandra Shekhar, then a 15-year-old student, joined. He was arrested. On being presented before a magistrate, he gave his name as “Azad” (The Free), his father’s name as “Swatantrata” (Independence) and his residence as “Jail”. From that day, he came to be known as Chandra Shekhar Azad among the people. 1925: Involved in the Kakori train Robbery. 1926: he was involved in an attempt to blow up the Viceroy of India’s train. 1928: he was involved in the shooting of J. P. Saunders at Lahore to avenge the killing of Lala Lajpat Rai. Organizations by Chandrashekhar Azad:- Hindustan Republican Association: After the suspension of the non-cooperation movement in 1922 by Gandhi, Azad joined Hindustan Republican Association (HRA). MUST READ: Dayanand Saraswati SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) By which one of the following Acts was the Governor General of Bengal, designated as the Governor General of India? (2023) The Regulating Act The Pitt’s India Act The Charter Act of 1793 The Charter Act of 1833 Q.2) Consider the following freedom fighters: (2022) Barindra Kumar Ghosh Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee Rash Behari Bose Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party? 1 and 2 2 only 1 and 3 3 only National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: An international symposium on sustainable livestock transformation was inaugurated at the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). About National Dairy Development Board (NDDB):- Establishment: Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. HQ: Anand, Gujarat, India. Objective: to replace exploitation with empowerment, tradition with modernity, stagnation with growth, transforming dairying into an instrument for the development of India’s rural people. The NDDB is a statutory body set up by an act of Parliament and was founded by Dr Verghese Kurien. Historical Background of NDDB:- It was initially constituted as a society under the Societies Act 1860. It was later merged with the former Indian Dairy Corporation, which was created and registered under the Companies Act 1956, by the NDDB Act 1987, which took effect on October 12, 1987. Significance of NDDB:- Empowering Rural economy: The NDDB’s initiatives altered India’s rural economy by making dairying a viable and profitable business for millions of milk producers. ( Women and Cooperative Dairy Farming) Long-term livelihood: The NDDB reaches out to dairy farmers and provides them with alternative income-generating opportunities, allowing them to build long-term livelihoods. NDDB has been effective in combining dairy farmers’ traditional wisdom and experience with modern management strategies in order to capture the milk and milk products market while also assisting farmers. Operation Flood: Its most notable achievement is Operation Flood, which lasted 26 years and transformed India into