Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) TIR Executive Board (TIRExB) Syllabus Prelims –ECONOMY Context: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Ministry of Finance (CBIC) recently requested support for India’s candidature for the TIR Executive Board (TIRExB). Background:- The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Ministry of Finance, in association with the Ministry of External Affairs organized an event in New Delhi yesterday for ambassadors and delegates from Contracting Parties to the Convention on International Transport of Goods Under Cover of TIR Carnets (TIR Convention, 1975). About TIR Executive Board (TIRExB):- The TIR Executive Board (TIRExB) is a subsidiary body of the TIR Administrative Committee. Composition: it is composed of 9 members, each from different Contracting Parties to the TIR Convention. The TIRExB supervises and provides support in the application of the TIR procedure at the national and international levels. About TIR Convention:- Establishment: 1975. The TIR Convention stands for the “Convention on International Transport of Goods Under Cover of TIR Carnets.” The Customs Convention on the International Transport of Goods under Cover of TIR Carnets (TIR Convention, 1975). It is one of the most successful international transport conventions. It is so far the only universal Customs transit system in existence. (International Customs Day, 2023) To date, it has 78 Contracting Parties, including the European Union. It covers the whole of Europe and reaches out to North Africa and the Near and Middle East. More than 33,000 operators are authorized to use the TIR system and around 1.5 million TIR transports are carried out per year. It is an international harmonized system of Customs control, which enables seamless transport of goods crossing multiple international borders using a single customs document (TIR Carnet) and a unified system of guarantee. India and TIR:- India became a party to the TIR Convention in 2017. India is a significant trading nation in the Asia Pacific region. It has been a key participant in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). Since its accession to the Convention, India has taken several measures to promote the use of TIR. A National Guaranteeing Association has been appointed and a Circular 48/2018-Cus has been issued detailing the procedure and authorizing ports and other customs stations of the country. India has also conducted pilot runs, including one using digital TIR. (Free Trade Agreements regime) Measures have been initiated to ensure effective usage of TIR through stakeholder consultations. MUST READ: Need for Reforms in UN SOURCE: PIB  PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following infrastructure sectors: (2023) Affordable housing Mass rapid transport Health care Renewable energy On how many of the above does the UNOPS Sustainable Investments in Infrastructure and Innovation (S3i) initiative focus on its investments? Only one Only two · Only three All four Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2021) 21st February is declared International Mother Language Day by UNICEF. The demand that Bangla has to be one of the national languages was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign Syllabus Prelims –GOVERNANCE Context: Recently, Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) began the ‘Ek Taarikh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Cleanliness Initiative under Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign. Background:- As part of the ongoing ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ Campaign 3.0, Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) joined the nation in organizing ‘Ek Taarikh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ cleanliness drive, at its office premises in Bhikaiji Cama Place, Delhi and adjoining areas recently. Ek Tareekh Ek Ghanta Ek Saath:- It is an initiative that is a massive voluntary effort for cleanliness in India, endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative encourages citizens to engage in one hour of “shramdaan” (voluntary labour) for cleanliness at 10 a.m. on October 1st as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. About Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign:- Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Duration: The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign is being celebrated from 15th September to 2nd October this year (2023). It is being celebrated as a prelude for the Swachh Bharat Diwas (2nd October) with nationwide participation. Implementation: It is under the joint aegis of DDWS & MoHUA. Theme of SHS-2023: ‘Garbage Free India’. Focus: visual cleanliness and welfare of SafaiMitras. The focus of these swachhata drives would be on high footfall public places like bus stands, railway stations, cantonment boards, beaches, tourist places, zoos, national parks & and sanctuaries, historical monuments, heritage sites, river fronts, ghats, drains and nallahs etc. in both rural & urban areas of State/ UT. Objectives:- For undertaking shramdaan activities aiming to generate Jan andolan through community participation. To provide impetus for the implementation of SBM. To disseminate the importance of a sampoorna swachh village. To reinforce the concept of Sanitation as everyone’s business. Activities:- Activities proposed for States / Districts / Blocks to organize SHS from 15th September 2023 to 2nd October 2023 are as follows:- Removal of garbage from all important places. Repair, painting, cleaning, and branding of all sanitation assets like litter bins, public toilets, dhalaos, waste transport vehicles, MRFs, etc. in the area. Drives to clean riverbanks and remove of waste (including plastic) from water bodies, especially in Ganga Grams and Ganga Towns. Cleaning of zoos, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, etc. under MoEFCC along with regulation of plastic materials in protected areas to prevent littering. Cleanliness drives of tourist spots, ASI protected monuments along with IEC initiatives to discourage usage of single-use plastic items, saturating dry and wet waste bins in line with the Hara Geela Sookha Neela campaign, etc. MUST READ: Swachh Bharat 2.0 SOURCE: PIB 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

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Seventh India-EU Cyber Dialogue Syllabus Prelims –INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Context: The Seventh India-EU Cyber Dialogue was held recently. About Seventh India-EU Cyber Dialogue:- Date: 05 October 2023. Venue: Brussels, Belgium. In the context of the vibrant Strategic Partnership between India and the EU, the two sides expressed appreciation for the Cyber Dialogue mechanism. Objective: to provide a platform to discuss a wide range of issues related to cyberspace. Both sides exchanged views on cyber policies, strategies, and areas of mutual interest. They discussed cyber cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the United Nations, and in regional settings, including at OSCE, ARF, and G20. They also discussed cooperation in promoting capacity building in cyberspace and combating the criminal use of ICTs. About India-EU Relations:- The EU is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. The union and EU citizenship were established when the Maastricht Treaty came into force in 1993. India was one of the first countries to establish relations with the European Economic Community in the 1960s. The retreat of the U.S. from global leadership has provided opportunities for EU-India cooperation.  Political Cooperation:- 2000: The first India-EU Summit was held in 2000 which marked a watershed in the development of the relationship. 2004: The relationship was upgraded to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ during the 5th India-EU Summit held in 2004. 2018: the EU’s strategy on India entitled “A Partnership for Sustainable Modernization and Rules-based Global Order” was issued by the European Commission and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Trade:- India is an important trade and investment partner for the EU. (India-EU: Trade talks) It is the second-largest destination for Indian exports after the United States. India’s bilateral trade with the EU amounted to USD 116.36 billion in 2021-22. Despite the global disruptions, bilateral trade achieved impressive annual growth of 43.5% in 2021-22. The trade agreement with the EU would help India further expand and diversify its exports of goods and services, including securing the value chains. Defense & Security:- EU and India have instituted several mechanisms for greater cooperation on pressing security challenges like counterterrorism, maritime security, and nuclear non-proliferation. Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region in New Delhi (IFC-IOR) has recently been linked up with the Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSC-HOA) established by the EU Naval Force (NAVFOR). Climate Change:- EU and India also underline their highest political commitment to the effective implementation of the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC. (EU’s Sustainability Push on India) The India-EU Clean Energy and Climate Partnership was agreed at the 2016 Summit. EU and India also cooperate closely on the Clean Ganga initiative. Research and Development:- The India-EU Science & Technology Steering Committee meets annually to review scientific cooperation. Both have official mechanisms in fields such as Digital Communications, 5G technology, Biotechnology, artificial intelligence, etc. ISRO has had a long-standing cooperation with the European Union, since the 1970s. It has contributed to the EU’s satellite navigation system Galileo. Challenges:- Deadlock over BTIA: The negotiations for a Broad-based Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) were held between 2007 to 2013 but have remained dormant/suspended since then. EU primarily remains a trade bloc: This has resulted in a lack of substantive agreements on matters such as regional security and connectivity. China’s influence: The EU has a high dependence on the Chinese market. It is a major partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Ukrainian war: EU expects India to criticize Russia. MUST READ: India-EU ties SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to India’s projects on connectivity, consider the following statements: (2023) The East-West Corridor under the Golden Quadrilateral Project connects Dibrugarh and Surat. A Trilateral Highway connects Moreh in Manipur and Chiang Mai in Thailand via Myanmar. Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Economic Corridor connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Kunming in China. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2023) Statement-I: Recently, the United States of America (USA) and the European Union (EU) have launched the Trade and Technology Council’. Statement-II: The USA and the EU claim that through this, they are trying to bring technological progress and physical productivity under their control. 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 International Criminal Court Syllabus Prelims –IMPORTANT INSTITUTIONS Context: The Armenian parliament recently, voted to join the International Criminal Court. Background:- The move is likely to further strain Armenia’s deteriorating relation with its ally Russia, which last month called Armenia’s push to join the ICC an “unfriendly step.” About Armenia:- IMAGE SOURCE: operationworld.org Continent: Asia. Capital: Yerevan. Armenia is a landlocked country. It is located toward the end of the southern Caucasus Mountains. Bordering countries: Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (a disputed territory), Turkey, Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (an exclave of Azerbaijan), Georgia, and Iran. About International Criminal Court:- Establishment: 2002. HQ: Hague, Netherlands. Official languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Spanish. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an international organization and international tribunal. The Court’s founding treaty, called the Rome Statute. India is not a party to the Rome Statute along with US and China. It is the world’s first permanent international criminal court. ​The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community. ICC’s Jurisdiction:- It grants the ICC jurisdiction over four main crimes. First: the crime of genocide. It is characterized by the specific intent to destroy in whole or in part a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group by killing its members or by other means: causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group.

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Swavlamban 2.0 Syllabus Prelims –DEFENSE Context: The second edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenization Seminar, Swavlamban 2.0, took place in Delhi recently. Background:- The event will unveil the Autonomous Weaponized Boat Swarms for the Indian Navy. About Swavlamban 2.0:- Date: 4th and 5th October 2023. Venue: New Delhi. Maiden edition of the seminar: July 2022. Naming: the term”Swavlamban” signifies self-reliance or self-sufficiency in Hindi. “Swavlamban 2.0” is an updated indigenization roadmap aimed at fostering self-reliance in technological capabilities. (Military Exercises) Objective: to showcase the Navy’s achievements in developing new technologies and outline the course for future developments. It is the Naval Innovation & Indigenisation Organisation’s (NIIO) annual seminar. Niche technologies are being progressed across the spectrum, including:- Blue-green lasers for underwater application Autonomous weaponised swarms and Underwater swarm drones Multiple firefighting aid Introduction of Artificial Intelligence (Al) for various uses Development of an ultra-endurance small drone for maritime missions. 75 prototypes of these will be showcased during “Swavlamban-2023”. This will include a live demo of a few promising technologies. Historic Background:- The Hon’ble Prime Minister launched the 75 challenges for the start-ups/ MSMEs as a part of the ‘SPRINT’ initiative. The ‘SPRINT Challenges’, are aimed at giving a boost to the usage of indigenous technology in the Indian Navy, and the Navy is committed to developing at least 75 technologies/ products as part of the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’. SPRINT is a collaborative initiative being undertaken in conjunction with the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and stands for Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC). Significance:- It aims to reduce dependence on foreign technologies and promote domestic innovation. It aligns with efforts to involve Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups in developing futuristic technologies that meet global standards at a more economical cost. MUST READ: New Naval Ensign (flag) for the Indian Navy SOURCE: FINANCIAL EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements: (2023) Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in the maintenance of internal security. To prevent infiltration on the international border/ coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some states. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries? (2019) Japan Russia The United Kingdom The United States of America GST Council Syllabus Prelims –ECONOMY Context: The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will chair the 52nd GST Council meeting in New Delhi recently. About GST Council:- The GST Council is a constitutional body established under Article 279A of the Indian Constitution. It is a joint forum of the Centre and the states to discuss issues relating to GST. GST is one of the biggest indirect tax reforms in the country. It has subsumed indirect taxes like excise duty, Value Added Tax (VAT), service tax, luxury tax, etc. The 101st Amendment Act of 2016 (122nd Amendment Bill), paved the way for the implementation of GST. Salient features of GST Council:- Article 279-A: gives the President the authority to appoint a GST Council by executive order. Members: The members of the Council include the Union Finance Minister (chairperson), and the Union Minister of State (Finance) from various states. Chairperson: The GST Council is chaired by the Union Finance Minister. Functions:- As per Article 279, is meant to make recommendations to the Union and the states on important issues related to GST. These include the goods and services that may be subjected or exempted from GST and model GST Laws. It also decides on various rate slabs of GST. MUST READ: GST- Five years on SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following situations best reflects “Indirect Transfers” often talked about in media recently with reference to India? (2022) An Indian company investing in a foreign enterprise and paying taxes to the foreign country on the profits arising out of its investment A foreign company investing in India and paying taxes to the country based on the profits arising out of its investment An Indian company purchases tangible assets in a foreign country and sells such assets after their value increases and transfers the proceeds to India A foreign company transfers shares and such shares derive their substantial value from assets located in India  Q.2) What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing ‘Goods and Services Tax (GST)’? (2017) It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India. It will drastically reduce the ‘Current Account Deficit’ of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserves. It will enormously increase the growth and size of the economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Syllabus Prelims –Medieval History Context: As per recent announcements, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ‘wagh nakh’ will be brought back to Maharashtra from a London museum. About the story of Shivaji’s Wagah Nakh:- The wagh nakh is a medieval claw-like dagger, designed to either fit over the knuckles or be concealed under the palm. It literally means ‘tiger claws’. It was used across the Indian subcontinent. The weapon consisted of four or five curved blades affixed to a glove or a bar of some kind. It was a weapon used for personal defense or stealth attack, and could easily slice through skin and flesh. The most famous use of the wagh nakh in history comes from the story of Afzal Khan’s killing by Shivaji used

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Abort Mission 1(TV-D1) Syllabus Prelims –SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY-SPACE Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has started preparing for the flight test Vehicle Abort Mission 1(TV-D1) for the Gaganyaan mission. Background:- The Space Agency has said that the unmanned flight tests for the Gaganyaan mission will commence soon. ISRO will also test the efficacy of the Crew Escape System which is a crucial part of the Gaganyaan mission, resulting in unmanned and manned missions to outer space by 2024. About Abort Mission 1(TV-D1):- Conducted by: The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Objective: to ensure crew safety during the Gaganyaan mission. The abort missions are meant to test the systems that can help the crew escape from the spacecraft mid-flight in case of a failure. ISRO has developed test vehicles for the abort missions. These can send the systems up to a certain height, simulate failure, and then check the escape system. Test Vehicle (TV-D1) is the first development flight. The Test Vehicle is a single-stage liquid rocket. Payloads: consist of the Crew Module (CM) and Crew Escape Systems (CES) with their fast-acting solid motors, along with CM fairing (CMF) and Interface Adapters. Escape system is designed with five “quick-acting” solid fuel motors with a high burn rate propulsion system, and fins to maintain stability. The Crew Escape Systems (CES) will separate from the crew module by firing explosive nuts. Mission plan:- This flight will simulate the abort condition during the ascent trajectory corresponding to a Mach number of 1.2 encountered in the Gaganyaan mission. CES with CM will be separated from the Test Vehicle at an altitude of about 17 km. Subsequently, the abort sequence will be executed autonomously commencing with the separation of CES and deployment of the series of parachutes. Finally, culminating in the safe touchdown of CM in the sea, about 10 km from the coast of Sriharikota. Significance:- The success of this test flight will set the stage for the remaining qualification tests and unmanned missions, leading to the first Gaganyaan mission with Indian Astronauts. It will help ISRO focus on perfecting the system that will launch and land Indians on missions to space and protect the astronauts if the mission fails. MUST READ: Space Economy of India SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? (2023) Australia Canada Israel Japan Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2023) Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Card-on-file tokenization facility Syllabus Prelims –ECONOMY Context: The RBI recently, announced the introduction of a card-on-file tokenization facility at the issuer bank level. Background:- Currently, Card-on-File (CoF) tokens can only be created through merchant applications or on the webpage of the e-commerce website. Given the growing acceptance and benefits of tokenization of card data, it is now proposed to introduce Card-on-File Tokenisation (CoFT) creation facilities directly at the issuer bank level. About card-on-file tokenization facility:- The central bank introduced Card-on-File Tokenization (CoFT) in September 2021 and began implementation on October 1, 2022. Objective: to enhance convenience for cardholders in getting tokens created and linking them to their existing accounts with e-commerce applications. Tokenization is the replacement of actual credit and debit card details with an alternate code called the “token”, which will be unique for a combination of card, token requestor, and device. A CoF transaction occurs when a cardholder authorizes a retailer to store the cardholder’s Mastercard or Visa payment information. The cardholder then authorizes the business to charge the stored Mastercard or Visa account. Card information is typically stored in the systems of e-commerce companies, airlines, and supermarket chains. Significance: The move will facilitate the creation and linking of tokens to cardholders’ existing accounts with e-commerce applications. Benefits of tokenization:- Enhanced safety and security: It eliminates the risk of storing card details online and ensures the uncompromised convenience of storing customer’s token details on the merchant site. Quicker checkouts: Tokenized Mastercard will allow the convenience of quick checkouts as one doesn’t need to punch in the card number for each purchase. No more ‘False Declines’: Many times, legitimate online payments using valid cards are declined on the grounds of the transaction looking like a fraud. With tokenization, this becomes a thing of the past as the usage of tokens for payments confirms the security of the highest order. Easy card management: With tokenization, one can also keep track of all their cards and the merchants they have been tokenized with. No need for a physical card Added benefits: Tokenization also comes with cashback benefits when secured with platforms like Amazon, Paytm, Swiggy, etc. MUST READ: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) SOURCE: BUSINESS LINE PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements: If the inflation is too high, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to buy government securities. If the rupee is rapidly depreciating, RBI is likely to sell dollars in the market. If interest rates in the USA or European Union were to fall, that is likely to induce RBI to buy dollars. Which of the statements given above are correct? (2022) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) With reference to Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), consider the following statements: They enable the digital representation of physical assets. They are unique cryptographic tokens that exist on a blockchain. They can be traded or exchanged at equivalency and therefore can be used as a medium transactions of commercial Which of the statements given above are correct? (2022) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI)

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) SHRESHTA (Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas) Syllabus Prelims –GOVERNMENT SCHEMES Context: The expenditure under the Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA) from 2020-21 to 2023-24 was released recently. About SHRESHTA (Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas):- Launched: June 2022. Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Objective: for the purpose of providing seats for the meritorious SC boys and girls in the best private residential schools in the country. Salient Features:- This scheme was launched for Scheduled Castes, as they have faced historical injustices in a hierarchical society and education is the most powerful tool to empower them as a community. The scheme will provide a level playing field to the poor and meritorious SC students. (New National Education Policy) It aims to enhance the reach of development Intervention of the Government and to fill the gap in service-deficient SCs dominant areas, in the sector of education through the efforts of grant-in-aid institutions (run by NGOs) and residential high schools offering high-quality education and provide the environment for socio-economic upliftment and overall development of the Scheduled Castes (SCs). Modes of implementation:- The scheme is being implemented in two Modes:- SHRESHTA schools:- Under this, each year a specified number of meritorious SC students in States/UTs will be selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) to be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). These would be admitted to the best private residential schools affiliated by the CBSE/State Board in classes 9th and 11th for completion of education till 12th standard. Selection of schools: Best performing CBSE-based private residential schools, having more than 75% pass percentage for classes 10 and 12 for the last three years are selected by a Committee for admission of selected students. Eligibility/Selection of students: Approx 3000 (1500 for 9th class and 1500 for class 11th tentative) SC students, whose parent’s annual income is up to 2.5 lakh, are selected every year under the Scheme through a national-level test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The choices of schools shall be offered to the students in accordance with their merit. (Education & Nation Building) NGO/VO-operated Schools/Hostels: These include EXISTING COMPONENT, Guidelines hereinafter applicable only for Mode 2 of the Scheme, Schools/Hostels. These are run by VOs/NGOs and other organizations having higher classes (up to class 12) and who have been receiving Grant-in-aid will be continued, subject to satisfactory performance. MUST READ: Gender gap in education SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following is/are the aim/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (2018) Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did. Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centers within our national geographical boundaries. Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places, and major tourist centres. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) What is the aim of the programme ‘Unnat Bharat Abhiyan’? (2017) Achieving 100% literacy by promoting collaboration between voluntary organizations the government’s education system and local communities. Connecting institutions of higher education with local communities to address development challenges through appropriate technologies. Strengthening India’s scientific research institutions in order to make India a scientific and technological power. Developing human capital by allocating special funds for health care and education of rural and urban poor, and organizing skill development programmes and vocational training for them. Afghanistan Earthquake Syllabus Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck about 40km from the western city of Herat, Afghanistan recently. Background:- In Afghanistan, the death toll from strong earthquakes has risen to over 2,400 as search and rescue efforts continue amid reports that some people may be trapped under collapsed buildings. About Earthquake:- An earthquake is the shaking or trembling of the earth’s surface. It is caused by the seismic waves or earthquake waves that are generated due to a sudden movement (sudden release of energy) in the earth’s crust (shallow-focus earthquakes) or upper mantle (some shallow-focus and all intermediate and deep-focus earthquakes). A seismograph, or seismometer, is an instrument used to detect and record earthquakes. Hypocentre/Focus: The point where the energy is released. Epicentre: The point on the surface directly above the focus. Isoseismic line: A line connecting all points on the surface where the intensity is the same. Causes of Earthquakes:- Fault Zones Plate tectonics Volcanic activity Human-Induced Earthquakes Types of Earthquakes:- Tectonic Earthquakes The most common ones are tectonic earthquakes. The Earth is made of four basic layers (generally three): a solid crust, a hot, nearly solid mantle, a liquid outer core, and a solid inner core. Tectonic plates (Lithospheric plates) are constantly shifting as they drift around on the viscous, or slowly flowing, mantle layer below. When tectonic plates move, it also causes movements at the (Anatolian Plate) Thus, the slipping of land along the faultline along convergent, divergent and transform boundaries causes earthquakes. Volcanic Earthquake Earthquakes produced by stress changes in solid rock due to the injection or withdrawal of magma (molten rock) are called volcano earthquakes. ( Volcano) Human Induced Earthquakes In areas of intense mining activity, sometimes the roofs of underground mines collapse causing minor tremors. These are called collapse earthquakes. Ground shaking may also occur due to the explosion of chemical or nuclear devices. Such tremors are called explosion earthquakes. MUST READ: Reimagining Disaster Management SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986? (2022) Central Water Commission Central Ground Water Board Central Ground Water Authority National Water Development Agency Q.2) consider the following statements: (2020) Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. Only some cyclones develop an eye. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT Syllabus Prelims –INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Context: Recently, Palestine-based Hamas militants launched a barrage of rockets on Israel on Saturday infiltrating the towns near the Gaza Strip through land, air, and sea. Hamas or the Islamic Resistance Movement: is a militant group that governs the Gaza Strip. It emerged in 1987 as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood during the first Palestinian intifada, or uprising, against the Israeli occupation of Gaza and the West Bank. It was founded by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, a Palestinian cleric. Its military wing, the Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, was established around 1991. About ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT:- Background of the war:- IMAGE SOURCE: express.co.uk Both Israelis and Palestinians have been in a struggle for self-determination and sovereignty over the territory, developing respective movements for their causes. Both Palestinians and Israelis see the territory between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea as their own, and Christians, Jews, and Muslims all hold parts of the land as sacred. The past seven decades have brought war and uprisings. (15th India-Israel Joint Working Group) Historic Timeline:- Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire had controlled that part of the Middle East from the early 16th century until control of most of the region was granted to the British after World War I. In 1916: the Sykes-Picot Agreement secretly negotiated between Britain and France planned to carve up the Middle East into spheres of influence, and determined that the land in question was to be internationalized. In 1917: Britain’s foreign secretary, Lord Arthur Balfour, expressed his government’s support for “the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people. 1947: UN resolution 1947: After World War II, nearing the end of the British Mandate for Palestine, the United Nations General Assembly in 1947 passed Resolution 181, urging the partition of the land into two independent states — one Arab and one Jewish. Religiously significant Jerusalem is to be under special international administration. The plan is not implemented after the Arab side rejects it, arguing that it is unfavorable to their majority population. Violence in the regional conflict grows. 1948: Israel declares independence. Israel declared independence in May 1948. The next day, a coalition of Arab states, allied with Palestinian factions, attacked Israeli forces in what became the first of several Arab-Israeli wars. In the end, Israel gains control of an even larger portion of territory — not including the areas of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. 1967: the Six-Day War In June of 1967, a war known as the “Six-Day War” or the 1967 Arab-Israeli War broke out amid lingering conflicts, including Egypt’s continued blockade of shipping into the Gulf of Aqaba. Israel ultimately took control of the Gaza Strip, Sinai, the West Bank, the Golan Heights, and predominantly Palestinian East Jerusalem. The Arab armies suffered massive losses. 1987: First intifada A Palestinian uprising, or intifada, brings largely spontaneous clashes, protests, and civil disobedience against Israeli occupation in the West Bank, Gaza, and Israel, leading to harsh Israeli military crackdowns. Unrest continues for years, with many killed or injured on both sides. 1993: Oslo Accords The first of two pacts, known as the Oslo Accords, was signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). It set out a peace process based on previous U.N. resolutions. It charted out the expansion of a limited Palestinian self-rule in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A follow-up accord was signed in 1995. However, key issues such as Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the status of Jerusalem, were left unresolved. 2006: Hamas elected in Gaza Israel withdrew its troops from Gaza in 2005. The Palestinian militant group Hamas wins legislative elections the next year, leading to political strains with the more moderate Fatah party controlling the West Bank. 2017: U.S. recognizes Jerusalem as capital The Donald Trump administration recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and announces that it plans to shift the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv, stirring outrage from Palestinians. 2023: Recent events:- January 2023: Israeli forces raid the Palestinian city of Jenin, killing nine people in a shootout. Summer 2023: Retaliatory attacks flare Israel launches surprise airstrikes across the Gaza Strip in May. October 2023: Israel is attacked by Hamas. Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu formally declared war on Hamas on Oct. 8 following a surprise assault by Hamas militants that came a day after the 50th anniversary of the start of the 1973 Yom Kippur War. MUST READ: India-Israel Industrial R&D & Technological Innovation Fund (I4F) SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which one of the following is a part of the Congo Basin? (2023) Cameroon Nigeria South Sudan Uganda Q.2) With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: (2022) A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from a baseline determined in accordance with the convention. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Chungthang dam Syllabus Prelims –GEOGRAPHY/DISASTER MANAGEMENT Context: The recent breach in the Chungthang dam breach hit the milk supply in Sikkim. Background:- Neighbouring Bihar stopped milk supply to Sikkim as the climate-change-induced flood-damaged roads in the state, causing supply chain disruptions. (National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)). Flash floods occurred in north Sikkim after the South Lhonak Lake burst due to incessant rains. Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF): A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) is a type of catastrophic flood that occurs when the dam containing a glacial lake fails, releasing a large volume of water. This type of flood is typically caused by the

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Dengue Syllabus Prelims –SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context: Bihar witnesses 371 fresh cases of Dengue in 24 hours. Background:- Last month, Bihar officially reported a distressing tally of a dozen deaths attributed to dengue. About Dengue:- IMAGE SOURCE: Top 10 Home Remedies Dengue is a vector-borne disease. Caused by: dengue virus (DENV). Transmission: It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on the blood of a person infected with the virus. There are 4 serotypes of the virus that cause dengue. These are known as DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4. Dengue cannot be spread directly from person to person. Most cases occur in tropical areas of the world, including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, Southern China, Taiwan, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, Mexico, Africa, and Central, and South America. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates. It is mostly in urban and semi-urban areas. As per WHO, about half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue with an estimated 100–400 million infections occurring each year. Symptoms:- High fever (40°C/104°F) Severe headache Pain behind the eyes Muscle and joint pains Nausea Vomiting Swollen glands Rash. Treatment Most cases of dengue fever can be treated at home with pain medicine. Prevention:- DNA Vaccines: DNA vaccines are often referred to as third-generation vaccines. (Dengue and DNA vaccines) Wear protective clothing. Use mosquito repellent. Reduce mosquito habitat. MUST READ: Zika Virus Disease SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following? (2023) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes Converting crop residues into packing material Producing biodegradable plastics Producing biochar from the thermos-chemical conversion of biomass Q.2) With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements: (2021) Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) Syllabus Prelims –GOVERNANCE Context: The Secretary of, the Department of Finance Services (DFS) chaired the stakeholder’s meeting on the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) recently. Background:- Dr Vivek Joshi, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, chaired a Stakeholders meeting on the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) in the presence of Dr M. P. Tangirala, Addl. Secretary, DFS, Chairman, NABARD; Managing Director, National Housing Board (NHB); Finance Secretaries and other senior officers from State and UT Governments. About Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF):- Establishment: 1995-96. Implementing Agency: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development(NABARD). Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) was instituted in NABARD with an announcement in the Union Budget 1995-96. Objective: giving low-cost fund support to State Govts. and State Owned Corporations for quick completion of ongoing projects relating to medium and minor irrigation, soil conservation, watershed management and other forms of rural infrastructure. Funding: The Fund is maintained by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development(NABARD). NABARD:- Establishment: 1982. Ministry: Ministry of Finance, Government of India. It was created by transferring the agricultural credit functions of RBI and refinance functions of the then Agricultural Refinance and Development Corporation (ARDC). Consequent to the revision in the composition of share capital between the Government of India and RBI. NABARD today is fully owned by the Government of India. It is an apex regulatory body for the overall regulation of regional rural banks and apex cooperative banks in India. It is active in developing and implementing financial inclusion. Financed Activities:- The activities to be financed under RIDF as classified under three broad categories namely:- Agriculture and related sectors (Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)) Social sector (Rural Healthcare system) Rural connectivity. Eligible Institutions:- State Governments / Union Territories State Owned Corporations / State Govt. Undertakings State Govt. Sponsored / Supported Organisations Panchayat Raj Institutions/Self Help Groups (SHGs)/ NGOs Mode of Finance:- NABARD releases the sanctioned amount on a reimbursement basis except for the initial mobilization advance @30% to North Eastern & Hilly States and 20% for other States. Quantum of Loan and Margin/Borrower Contribution:- The project for rural connectivity, social and agri-related sectors, is eligible for loans from 80 to 95% of the project cost. Cost escalation proposals for certain genuine reasons are considered within two years of sanction. Rate of interest:- With effect from 01 April 2012, the interest rates payable to banks on deposits placed with NABARD and loans disbursed by NABARD from RIDF have been linked to the Bank Rate prevailing at that point in time. Repayment period:- Loan to be repaid in equal annual instalments within seven years from the date of withdrawal, including a grace period of two years. The interest shall be paid at the end of each quarter i.e. 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and 31 December every year, including a grace period. Penal Interest:- Interest on the overdue interest amount is to be paid at the same rate as applicable to the principal amount. Security for Loan:- Loans sanctioned would be secured by the irrevocable letter of authority/mandate registered with Reserve Bank of India/any other Scheduled Commercial Bank, Time promissory Note (TPN), Execution of unconditional Guarantee from State Governments (Additionally required for support to State Government sponsored organisations, etc.) and acceptance of terms and conditions of sanction in the duplicate copy of the sanction letter. Phasing of RIDF projects:- The implementation phase for projects sanctioned is spread over 2-5 years, varying with the type of the project and also the location of the State. MUST READ: Cooperative Sector Reforms SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider · the following statements in respect of the Constitution Day : (2023) Statement-I : Constitution Day is celebrated on 26th November every year to promote constitutional values among citizens. Statement-II: On 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India· set up a Drafting Committee under the Chairmanship of

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI 5.0) Syllabus Prelims –GOVERNMENT SCHEMES Context: Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI 5.0), a campaign of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will conclude all 3 rounds on 14th October 2023. About Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI 5.0):- Launch:2023. Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Objective: to enhance immunization coverage for all vaccines provided under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) as per the National Immunization Schedule (NIS). It is the flagship routine immunization campaign of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. (Mission Indradhanush) Salient Features:- The campaign will be conducted across the country during the months of August, September and October this year. During these three rounds, children of the 0-5 years age group and pregnant women, who have missed any dose of vaccine as per the National Immunization Schedule ( NIS), will be vaccinated. This year, for the first time the campaign is being conducted across all the districts in the country and includes children up to 5 years of age (Previous campaigns included children up to 2 years of age). Government of India is committed to achieving the target of Measles-Rubella Elimination ( MR Elimination) by December 2023 and the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0 program is a major step toward achieving this goal. (India’s plan to eradicate measles, rubella) Every state/ UT, has been given a target of 95% for both MR doses (MR1, MR2) and 2 per lac population for Non Measles Non Rubella ( NMNR) Discard Rate, by GOI. Chandigarh has already achieved 103% ( MR1) , 95%(MR2) and 6 per Lac( NMNR Discard Rate). IMI 5.0 is being conducted in three rounds i.e., 7 -12 August, 11-16 September, and 9-14 October 2023 i.e., 6 days in a month with the inclusion of a Routine Immunization Day. All States/UTs except Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Punjab will conclude all three rounds of the IMI 5.0 campaign by 14 October 2023. As of 30th September 2023, over 34,69,705 children and 6,55,480 pregnant women were administered vaccine doses during the first 2 rounds of the IMI 5.0 campaign across the country. Significance:- IMI 5.0 ensures that routine immunization services reach the missed-out and dropped-out children and pregnant women across the country. MUST READ: mRNA Vaccine SOURCE: PIB 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) ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?  (2023) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes Converting crop residues into packing material Producing biodegradable plastics Producing biochar from. thermochemical conversion of biomass Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Syllabus Prelims –DEFENSE Context: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the 21st National Maritime Search and Rescue Board (NMSAR) meeting recently. Key highlights of the 21st NMSAR meeting:- Date: 12 October 2023. Venue: Kolkata. The meeting was chaired by Director General Rakesh Pal, ICG in his capacity as Chairman, of the NMSAR Board. ICG is the coordinating and executing agency for Maritime Search and Rescue in the Indian Search and Rescue Region. NMSAR Board:- It was formed in 2002 and since the Board meeting is being held annually. To discuss policy issues, formulate guidelines/ procedures and consider recommendations for reviewing the National Search and Rescue plan. During the meeting, National Search and Rescue (SAR) awards for the year 2022-23 were also presented. The United Kingdom Flag vessel MV Furious was awarded in the merchant vessel category. Indian Fishing Boat New Aparajita from West Bengal was awarded in the fishing boat category. ICG Ship Sujeet & ICG Air Squadron 835 Sqn(CG) in Govt owned SAR unit category. Gujrat Maritime Board and INMCC received the award in the ashore unit category. About the Indian Coast Guard (ICG):- Establishment: 1978. Ministry: Ministry Of Defence. HQ: New Delhi, Delhi It was established in August 1978 by the Coast Guard Act, 1978 as an independent armed force of India. It is the fourth largest Coast Guard in the world. For effective command and control, the Maritime Zones of India are divided into five Coast Guard Regions, namely, North-West, West, East, North-East and Andaman & Nicobar, with the respective Regional Headquarters located at Gandhinagar, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Port Blair. Historical Background:- The concept of forming ICG came into being after the 1971 war. The blueprint for a multidimensional Coast Guard was conceived by the visionary Rustamji Committee. Objectives and Functions:- To protect our ocean and offshore wealth including oil, fish and minerals. To assist mariners in distress and safeguard life and property at sea. (Indian Coast Guard Ships (ICGS)) To enforce maritime laws with respect to sea, poaching, smuggling and narcotics. To preserve marine environment and ecology and protect rare species. To collect scientific data and back up the Navy during war. To Prevent and Control of Marine Pollution. To ensure the safety and Protection of Artificial Islands and Offshore Terminals MUST READ: Defence Acquisition Council SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements: (2023) Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in the maintenance of internal security. To prevent infiltration on the international border/ coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some states. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Global Hunger Index 2023 Syllabus Prelims –IMPORTANT INDICES Context: Global Hunger Index 2023 was released recently. Key Highlights:- IMAGE SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH The 2023 GHI shows that, after many years of advancement up to 2015, progress against hunger worldwide remains largely at a standstill. As the effects of crises multiply and intensify, more and more people are experiencing severe hunger, with the situation expected to worsen throughout the year. South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are the global regions characterized by the most severe hunger levels, both holding a GHI score of 27, signifying a serious state of hunger. India topped the list of countries with the highest child-wasting rate in the world, at 18.7 per cent, reflecting acute undernutrition. The country’s child wasting rate is higher than that of conflict-ridden Yemen (at 14.4 per cent) and Sudan at (13.7 per cent), which hold the second and third positions, respectively India has been ranked at the 111th position out of 124 countries, with neighbouring Pakistan (102th), Bangladesh (81st), Nepal (69th) and Sri Lanka (60th) faring better than it in the index. The country slipped four notches from its 107th position in 2022. Child wasting: refers to the share of children under age five who have low weight for their height. Indian government’s stand: The Indian government has questioned the methodology of GHI. Initiatives taken by the government:- National Food Security Act, 2013: It legally entitled up to 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population to receive subsidized food grains under the Targeted Public Distribution System. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme: Launched on 2nd October 1975, the ICDS Scheme offers a package of six services (Supplementary Nutrition, preschool non-formal education, Nutrition & health education, Immunization, Health check-up and Referral services) to children in the age group of 0-6 years, pregnant women and lactating mothers. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: A centrally sponsored scheme executed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, is a maternity benefit programme being implemented in all districts of the country with effect from 1st January 2017. POSHAN Abhiyan: Launched in 2018, it aims to reduce stunting, undernutrition, and anaemia (among young children, women and adolescent girls). Food Fortification: Food Fortification or Food Enrichment is the addition of key vitamins and minerals such as iron, iodine, zinc, and Vitamin A & D to staple foods such as rice, milk and salt to improve their nutritional content. About Global Hunger Index 2023:- Time period: Annual. Published by: Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe. The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a tool for comprehensively measuring and tracking hunger at global, regional, and national levels. GHI scores are based on the values of four component indicators: Undernourishment: the share of the population with insufficient caloric intake. Child stunting: the share of children under age five who have low height for their age, reflecting chronic undernutrition. Child wasting: the share of children under age five who have low weight for their height, reflecting acute undernutrition. Child mortality: the share of children who die before their fifth birthday, partly reflecting the fatal mix of inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environments. Based on the values of the four indicators, a GHI score is calculated on a 100-point scale. The scale reflects the severity of hunger, where 0 is the best possible score (no hunger) and 100 is the worst. Each country’s GHI score is classified by severity, from low to extremely alarming. (Understanding the Global Hunger Index) MUST READ: Food security SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following infrastructure sectors : (2023) Affordable housing Mass rapid transport Health care Renewable energy On how many of the above does the UNOPS Sustainable Investments in Infrastructure and Innovation (S3i) initiative focus on its investments? 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 Kawar Lake Syllabus Prelims –ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY Context: Recent reports show that Bihar’s Kawar Lake has been neglected and is on the brink of drying up. Background:- While Bihar has many wetlands, only one is recognized Kawar Lake. About Kawar Lake:- Location: Begusarai, Bihar. It is also known as Gokhur Lake or Kabartal Wetland. It is a residual oxbow lake formed by the changing course of the River Gandak. It is the largest freshwater oxbow lake in Asia. It was declared a Ramsar site in August 2020. (COP14 of Ramsar Convention on Wetlands) It was declared a notified area under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. To check the poaching of birds, it was declared a protected zone by the Bihar state government in 1986. The government of India declared it a bird sanctuary in 1989. It is one of the most important wetlands for waterfowl in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It supports huge numbers of migratory ducks and Coot through the winter, as well as large concentrations of resident species such as ruficollis and Asian Openbill. The lake has been home to 58 migratory birds. It served as an important stopover along the Central Asian Flyway with at least 58 migratory water birds. Threats:- Encroachment Conflicts between farmers and fisherfolk Illegal activities exacerbate the degradation. The lake has been experiencing a steady decrease in water levels since 2010. The lake faces challenges due to policy implementation gaps, illegal activities like migratory bird hunting, and a lack of effective conservation measures. About Gandak River:- It is a tributary of the The Gandaki River system lies in the central part of Nepal. Its river

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Operation Ajay Syllabus Prelims –INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Context: Two more flights Under Operation Ajay arrived in India carrying Indian nationals from war-torn Israel recently. Background:- More than 900 Indians brought back home from war-torn Israel. About Operation Ajay:- Beginning: 12 October 2023. Objective: the government will bring back its citizens through special chartered flights. Operation Ajay is a mission aimed at repatriating Indian citizens who were residing in Israel. The Indian government will be sending special chartered flights to repatriate citizens from Israel and Palestine. Indian Navy ships may also be sent if the need arises. Current Situation in Israel:- Israel continued its strikes against Hamas militants in Gaza, in response to a brutal assault in Israel by Hamas recently. So far, 2,300 lives have been lost on both sides. (ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT) The situation continues to be grim. Diaspora:- Around 18,000 Indians are currently in Israel. Of these, most of them are caregivers. There are also about 1,000 students, several IT professionals and diamond traders. At least 17 Indians are stranded in Palestine, which includes aid workers and those who went there for business. Communication helplines:- The Indian embassy in Israel communicates with registered Indian citizens through email, providing instructions and updates for subsequent flights. The Ministry of External Affairs has set up a 24-hour control room to monitor the ongoing developments. In addition, the Embassy of India in Tel Aviv has set up a 24-hour emergency helpline, which can be accessed. Further, the Representative Office of India in Ramallah has also set up a 24-hour emergency helpline. Significance: – Operation Ajay Acts as a model for effective and flexible evacuation procedures, guaranteeing the safety of people during trying circumstances. (Vande Bharat Mission and International Cooperation) MUST READ: Operation Sadbhavana SOURCE: AIR PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements: (2023) Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in the maintenance of internal security. To prevent infiltration on the international border/ coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some states. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q.2) Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries? (2019) Japan Russia The United Kingdom The United States of America Rasmussen’s encephalitis Syllabus Prelims –SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context: Recently, doctors Shut down Half of a girl’s Brain to halt the rare disease Rasmussen’s encephalitis. Background:- To help a sick girl named Brianna Bodley, doctors at Loma Linda University Health in California turned off one half of her brain. This was because she had a condition called Rasmussen’s encephalitis, which causes swelling in the brain. About Rasmussen’s encephalitis:- IMAGE SOURCE: About.com Health Rasmussen’s encephalitis is an extremely rare, chronic inflammatory neurological disease. The patient usually experiences frequent episodes of uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that cause epileptic seizures (epilepsy) and progressive cerebral destruction. (Rare Diseases) With time, further symptoms may include:- progressive weakness of one side of the body (hemiparesis), language problems (if on the left side of the brain) and intellectual disabilities. Cause: The exact cause of this disorder is not known. The two leading ideas are that brain inflammation might be a reaction of a foreign antigen (infection) or an autoimmune disease limited to one side of the brain resulting in brain damage. Age Group:- It occurs mostly, but not always, in children between the ages of two and ten years. In many patients the course of the disease is most severe during the first 8 to 12 months. After the peak inflammatory response is reached, the progression of this disorder appears to slow or stop, and the patient is left with permanent neurological deficits. It often results in permanent disabilities such as epilepsy, paralysis, and cognitive problems. The severity varies among individuals. (Disease Surveillance System) Treatment:- Antiseizure Medications: These medications are often used to manage seizures, although they might not completely eliminate them. Immunotherapy: Early use of immunotherapy may help control seizures or prevent further immune-related brain damage. Brain Surgery (Hemispherectomy): It involves the removal or disconnection of half of the patient’s brain from the rest of the brain. MUST READ: Rare disease ‘GNB1 Encephalopathy SOURCE: CNN 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) In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements: (2021) Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 BlueWalker 3 satellite Syllabus Prelims – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context: Recent observations taken within weeks of its launch showed the BlueWalker 3 satellite was among the brightest objects in the sky. Background:- According to a new study, is as bright as the brightest stars in the 89 constellations of Canis Minor and Eridanus. About BlueWalker 3 satellite:- Launched: 9:20 p.m. ET Launch date: 10 September 2022. BlueWalker 3 is a prototype satellite. (NASA and ISRO collaborate on satellite NISAR) It is part of a satellite constellation planned by its owner AST SpaceMobile (a U.S.-based company). It