Current Affairs

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) REAL EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE (REER) SOARS TO AN ALL-TIME HIGH Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The rupee is hitting fresh lows against the US dollar each day, yet its exchange rate has scaled an all-time-high in “real effective” terms. Background: – Real effective exchange rate (REER) is a measure of a currency’s value against its trading partners, adjusted for inflation.  Key takeaways The real effective exchange rate (REER) index of the rupee touched a record 108.14 in November, strengthening by 4.5 per cent during this calendar year, according to the latest Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data. The REER measures the rupee’s value vis-à-vis not only the dollar, but other global currencies as well. In this case, it is a weighted average of the rupee’s exchange rate against a basket of 40 currencies of countries that account for about 88 per cent of India’s annual exports and imports. The REER also adjusts for inflation differentials between India and each of these trading partners. The rupee’s REER — with 2015-16 as the base year — fell from 105.32 in January 2022 to 99.03 in April 2023. But since then, it has been on an appreciating trajectory. The main reason for the divergence — the rupee’s simultaneous weakening and strengthening — has to do with the dollar’s behaviour over the past three months, especially post Trump’s victory. In other words, the rupee isn’t weakening as much as the dollar is strengthening — against all currencies. The dollar is strengthening because of Trump’s public pronouncements favouring tariff hikes, income tax cuts and deportations of illegal immigrants.  From a longer timeframe, the rupee has, since the start of 2022, dipped against the dollar (from 74.30 to 85.19), euro (84.04 to 88.56) and pound (100.30 to 106.79), while firming up only against the yen (0.6454 to 0.5425). Despite that, its REER has increased. And that is a result of inflation in India being higher relative to its major partners. Assuming the rupee was “fairly” valued in 2015-16, when the REER was set to 100, any value above 100 signifies overvaluation and the exchange rate not falling enough to offset higher domestic inflation. The rupee is, to that extent, is overvalued today, making imports cheaper and exports less competitive. Source: Indian Express   PRADHAN MANTRI AYUSHMAN BHARAT HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE MISSION (PM-ABHIM) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Delhi High Court directed that the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi needed to sign an MoU with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare before January 5 for implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), irrespective of imposition of Model Code of Conduct in the run-up to the Assembly elections. Background: – PM-ABHIM is a Central government scheme that aims to strengthen public health infrastructure to respond to future pandemics and outbreaks. Key takeaways Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) with some Central Sector Components (CS) which has an outlay of Rs. 64,180 Crores for the scheme period (2021-22 to 2025-26). The measures under the scheme focus on developing capacities of health systems and institutions all levels viz. primary, secondary and tertiary level and on preparing health systems in responding effectively to the current and future pandemics/disasters.  The objective of the scheme is to fill critical gaps in health infrastructure, surveillance and health research – spanning both the urban and rural areas. The following are the components under CS Component of the scheme:  12 Central Institutions as training and mentoring sites with 150 bedded Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCBs);  Strengthening of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), 5 New Regional NCDCs and 20 metropolitan health surveillance units;  Expansion of the Integrated Health Information Portal to all States/UTs to connect all public health labs;  Operationalization of 17 new Public Health Units and strengthening of 33 existing Public Health Units at Points of Entry, that is at 32 Airports, 11 Seaports and 7 land crossings;  Setting up of 15 Health Emergency Operation Centres and 2 container based mobile hospitals; and  Setting up of a national institution for One Health, 4 New National Institutes for Virology, a Regional Research Platform for WHO South East Asia Region and 9 BioSafety Level III laboratories.  Following support is provisioned for States/UTs under CSS component of the scheme:   Construction of 17,788 rural Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). Support for 11,024 urban Health and Wellness Centres in all the States with the focus on slum like areas. Establishing 3382 Block Public Health Units (BPHUs) at block levels.  Setting up of Integrated Public Health Labs (IPHLs) in 730 districts.  Establishing Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCBs) in 602 districts (with population more than 5 lakhs) and with referral linkages in other districts. Source: Indian Express CONDUCT OF ELECTION RULES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Centre recently amended the Conduct of Election Rules to restrict access for the public to a section of poll documents. This was done by the Union Law Ministry following a recommendation from the Election Commission (EC). Background: While the EC said the amendment aims to restrict access to electronic data, the Opposition and transparency activists have been up in arms, branding it as an attack on the right to information and electoral freedom. Key takeaways The Conduct of Election Rules,1961, is a set of rules which provide for provisions on how to conduct the elections as per the Representation of People Act. Rule 93(2)(a) of the 1961 Conduct of Election Rules had earlier stated that “all other papers relating to the election shall be open to public inspection” but after the amendment, it reads, “all other papers as specified in these rules relating to the election shall be open to public inspection.” Why has the amendment been brought in now? The move comes after a recent direction to the EC by the Punjab and Haryana High Court to share all documents related to the Haryana Assembly election, including

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) THE SAHEL CRISIS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – GEOGRAPHY ; GS 2 Context: The Sahel region of Africa possesses vast resources, but its population remains enmeshed in poverty, famine, political instability and warfare. In the last two years, there have been military coups in Niger, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Chad. Background: – A number of factors contribute to the plight of people in the Sahel region including weak state institutions, military coups, and external exploitation of its resources. Key takeaways The Sahel is a region in western and north-central Africa that extends eastward from Senegal to Sudan, forming a transitional zone between the arid Sahara Desert to the north and humid Savannas to the south.  As per the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS), the region has ten countries, i.e. Senegal, Gambia, Mauritania, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Nigeria.  With its abundance of resources, including uranium, gold, and oil, the Sahel is one of the world’s most endowed regions. For instance, Mali is Africa’s third-largest gold producer, and Burkina Faso is the fourth-largest and fastest-growing producer of gold in the African Continent, and Niger is the world’s leading source of uranium. Factors behind coups in the Sahel In recent years, there have been military coups in Mali (2020 and 2021), Niger (2023), Burkina Faso (2022), Guinea (2021), and Chad (2021). The inability of civilian governments to effectively control large territory, popular frustration with the deteriorating security, and the lack of economic and social progress are some of the major factors that contributed to military takeovers. Military usually capitalise on the widespread popular disenchantment with the elected governments to seize power. But they rarely have long-term vision. The rivalry among global powers in this unstable area has been the primary reason behind the political instability.  Struggle for socio-economic development On the HDI, the countries of the region are in the bottom ten. In response to the crisis in Mali, the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 2056, which led to the creation of UNISS in 2013. The strategy focuses on six critical areas: cross-border cooperation, prevention and sustaining peace, economic revitalisation and inclusive growth, climate action, renewable energy, and women and youth empowerment. The objectives of UNISS were intended to contribute to achieving both the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. However, the recent spate of military coups has revealed the failure of the policies in addressing the region’s root causes of instability. External factors The Sahara-Sahel region has emerged as a new geopolitical hotspot, driven by a mix of weak states, interfering global powers, and transnational non-state actors.  For much of modern history, the region has been France-centric, with French forces frequently intervening to control and influence regional security.  The people of the Sahel continue to suffer in poverty because their leaders, along with their former colonial power, continued to exploit them. For instance, Niger was providing France with the majority of its uranium at a fraction of its market value. However, France’s aggressive intervention in 2013, encountered substantial resistance from local non-state actors and widespread resentment. This provided powers like Russia with an opportunity. Russia’s foothold in Libya, where it consolidated power through military groups like Wagner Group contractors, enabled it to position itself as an alternative security provider and expand its presence into Mali and Burkina Faso – countries that had grown disillusioned with France’s military presence. The failure of French foreign policy in the region has resulted in a power rivalry between France and Russia. The NATO intervention in Libya led to a surge in trans-Saharan terrorism and crime, created new security challenges. This failure of NATO provided Russia with an opportunity to fill the void. The Sahel’s turmoil and India’s role Reliance on security-focused international dependence has failed to address the root causes of violence, poverty, and instability in the Sahel. In particular, the failure of the French efforts, which were largely focused on countering jihadism through militarisation and retaining its status as the dominant external player in Africa, has been detrimental. The international community’s role should focus on strengthening state institutions rather than prioritising self-serving resource extraction and security/military objectives. It should support Sahelian governments in a way that avoids creating perpetual external dependence. There are significant ramifications for India. The Sahel serves as a prime example of a geopolitical hotspot that could escalate tensions, potentially leading to a larger east-west conflict. The resulting upheaval would have a negative impact on India’s ambitions of becoming a global powerhouse. Moreover, India depends on critical resources such as oil, gas, and uranium from the Sahel and its surroundings. Therefore, India needs to engage meaningfully in efforts to stabilise the region.  Source: Indian Express   CHINA APPROVES WORLD’S LARGEST DAM ON BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: China has approved the construction of the world’s largest dam, stated to be the planet’s biggest infra project costing USD 137 billion, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet close to the Indian border. Background: – The Brahmaputra is a trans-boundary river which flows through Southwestern China, Northeastern India, and Bangladesh. It is known as Brahmaputra or Luit in Assamese, Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibetan, the Siang/Dihang River in Arunachali, and Jamuna River in Bengali. Key takeaways The Chinese government has approved the construction of a hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River.  The dam is to be built at a huge gorge in the Himalayan reaches where the Brahmaputra river makes a huge U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh. The dam could produce 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. That would more than triple the 88.2 billion kWh designed capacity of the Three Gorges Dam, currently the world’s largest, in central China. The Yarlung Zangbo becomes the Brahmaputra river as it leaves Tibet and flows south into India’s Arunachal Pradesh and Assam states and finally into Bangladesh. The Brahmaputra Dam presents enormous engineering challenges as the project site is located along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur. The Tibetan plateau, regarded as the roof of the world, frequently experiences earthquakes

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) WESTERN DISTURBANCE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – GEOGRAPHY Context: A western disturbance swept across northern India recently, bringing fresh snowfall to Kashmir and widespread rain to Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana.  Background: – Weather experts note that the western disturbances, earlier predicted, seem to be more intense than expected.  Key takeaways A Western Disturbance (WD) is an extra-tropical storm originating in the Mediterranean region, characterized by its movement from west to east. It is carried towards South Asia by the subtropical westerly jet stream. Formation and Origin: Formed over the Mediterranean Sea, Caspian Sea, or Black Sea. Develops as low-pressure systems with associated upper-air cyclonic circulations. Movement: Moves eastwards, influenced by the jet stream, entering India through the northwestern regions. Seasonality: Primarily active during winter (November to March) but can occasionally occur in other seasons. Regions Affected: Northwestern India: Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Western Uttar Pradesh. Extends to the Himalayan states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir. Sometimes influences central and eastern India. Weather Impact: Rainfall and Snowfall: Causes winter rainfall in the northwestern plains. Triggers snowfall in the Himalayan regions, critical for replenishing glaciers and water reserves. Temperature Effects: Leads to a decrease in daytime temperatures (due to cloud cover and rain). Increases nighttime temperatures (acts as a blanket by trapping terrestrial radiation). Agricultural Significance: Beneficial for Rabi crops like wheat and mustard due to moisture availability. Disruptive Effects: Can lead to flash floods, landslides, and avalanches in mountainous regions. Interaction with Local Systems: When WDs interact with moist easterly winds (originating from the Bay of Bengal), they intensify, leading to widespread precipitation. Source: Financial Express PANGOLINS Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Recent incidents in Telangana have renewed concerns about the smuggling of pangolins, a scaly nocturnal mammal known for its huge demand in the international market. This has prompted renewed vigilance against its illicit trafficking. Background: – The creatures are strictly nocturnal, repelling predators by curling up into scaly spheres upon being alarmed. The same defence mechanism however, makes them slow and easy to catch once spotted. Key takeaways Globally there are eight pangolin species, four each in Africa and Asia. India is home to two species – Indian pangolin Manis crassicaudata and Chinese pangolin Manis pentadactyla.  Indian pangolins are found in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. In India, the species (Indian pangolin) is widely distributed and has been recorded in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. In India, both Indian pangolins and Chinese pangolins are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972. Therefore hunting, trade, or any other form of utilisation of the species or their body parts and derivatives is banned.  Since 2017, all pangolin species have been listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), prohibiting their commercial trade. Chinese Pangolin is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List while the Indian Pangolin is classified as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List. They are the only known mammals with large keratin scales covering their skin. They are also toothless. These animals are inherently shy and have minimal requirements for sustenance. Their diet primarily consists of ants, termites, and their eggs and larvae. Their sense of smell is extraordinary but vision and hearing are poor. Pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world—with demand primarily in Asia and in growing amounts in Africa—for their meat and scales. There is also demand in the United States for pangolin products, particularly for their leather to be used in boots, bags, and belts. Significance of Pangolins Pangolins are “ecosystem engineers” that build burrows that help circulate soil organic matter, increase soil moisture and aeration, and affect plant community succession through their burying behaviour. The burrows made by pangolins also get utilised as shelters by other species within their ecosystem. Source: Indian Express PM CARES FUND Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The contribution to Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund) fell to Rs 912 crore during the financial year 2022-23,  its lowest since the public charitable trust was created in March 2020 following the COVID-19 outbreak. Background: A study of the audited statements on PM CARES Fund website shows that the voluntary contribution peaked at ₹7,184 crore in 2020-21 and then fell to ₹1,938 crore in 2021-22, before declining further in 2022-23 as the Covid threat receded after 2021. Key takeaways The PM CARES Fund was set up on March 28, 2020, as a public charitable trust under the legal framework of the Registration Act, 1908. It aims to provide relief during emergencies, including health crises, natural disasters, and other distress situations. Trustees: The Prime Minister is the Chairperson of the fund. Ex-officio trustees include the Minister of Defence, Minister of Home Affairs, and Minister of Finance. The Chairperson of the Board of Trustees (Prime Minister) shall have the power to nominate three trustees to the Board of Trustees who shall be eminent persons in the field of research, health, science, social work, law, public administration and philanthropy. Any person appointed a Trustee shall act in a pro bono capacity. Voluntary Contributions: The fund accepts voluntary contributions from individuals, organizations, and foreign donors and does not get any budgetary support. Donations to the PM CARES Fund qualify for 100% exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961. They also count as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expenditure under the Companies Act, 2013. Foreign Contributions: The fund is exempt under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), allowing it to accept donations from foreign individuals and organizations. Administrative Costs: No administrative expenses are deducted; the entire contribution is used for relief efforts. Non-Governmental Status: The fund is not considered a “public authority” under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, sparking debates over transparency and accountability. Source: Hindustan Times SIANG UPPER MULTIPURPOSE PROJECT (SUMP) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: A sense of unease prevails in two districts along the Siang River in

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) ALL INDIA MUSLIM LEAGUE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – HISTORY Context: On December 30 in 1906, the All India Muslim League, best known for securing India’s partition into two nations, was founded.  Background: – After Partition, the Muslim League was disbanded in India. In Pakistan and later in Bangladesh too, the League broke into factions and did not survive long.  Key takeaways The AIML was founded on December 30, 1906, at the All-India Muhammadan Educational Conference in Dhaka, under the leadership of Nawab Salimullah Khan, Sir Aga Khan, and others. Headquarters: Initially in Dhaka, later shifted to Lucknow. At the time of its founding, the League was a collective of elite Muslim men, and remained so for almost three decades. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, eventually its tallest leader, was then in the Congress.  Key moments Separate Electorates (1909): The league successfully lobbied for separate electorates for Muslims, introduced in the Indian Councils Act of 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms). The Lucknow Pact, 1916: In December 1916, the Congress under Bal Gangadhar Tilak and the Muslim League under Muhammad Ali Jinnah signed the Lucknow Pact. Put briefly, the pact called for more Indian, elected representation in bodies like the provincial and central legislatures and the central executive council, and the Congress agreeing to separate electorates. Shift Towards Separatism (1930s): The league gradually moved toward the idea of a separate nation for Muslims under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The Lahore Resolution, 1940: From the Lucknow pact to the Lahore Resolution, both the League and Jinnah had transformed entirely, insisting on nothing but Partition. Thus, the Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League during its general session in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940, formally called for an independent state for Muslims. March 23 is observed as Pakistan National Day to commemorate this resolution. Source: Indian Express VIKRAM SARABHAI Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme, died on December 30, 1971, in Kovalam, Kerala, at the age of 52. Background: – Late President APJ Abdul Kalam once had called the “Mahatma Gandhi of Indian Science”. Key takeaways Born to Ambalal and Sarla Devi, Ahmedabad’s leading textile-mill owners on August 12, 1919. After studying from Gujarat University in Ahmedabad, Sarabhai went to study physics and mathematics at Cambridge University, but was forced to return when World War II broke out. He completed his post-graduation at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru under Dr CV Raman, where he also met Dr Homi Bhabha, and returned later to Cambridge for a PhD in cosmic rays. Key Contributions to Indian Science and Technology: Space Research and ISRO Formation: Visionary Leader: Recognized the importance of space technology for India’s development. Played a significant role in establishing the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad in 1947, focusing on fundamental physics and space sciences. Establishment of ISRO (1969): Played a pivotal role in setting up the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to promote space exploration and satellite-based communication. Instrumental in India’s first satellite, Aryabhata (1975), launched posthumously. Atomic Energy and Research Institutes: Worked with Homi Bhabha to strengthen India’s atomic energy program. Sarabhai succeeded Homi Bhabha as the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India. Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad: Co-founded IIM Ahmedabad in 1961, establishing it as a premier management institute globally. Satellite Technology and Applications: Conceptualized the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) to advance communication, education, and meteorology. Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) : Sarabhai started a dialogue with NASA that formed the base for Satellite Instructional Television Experiment. Launched in 1975 from village Pij in Gujarat’s Kheda district, it would beam TV programmes to villages and was the first Indo-US space venture using technology for education. Source: Indian Express KAMARAJAR PORT Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The cargo-handling capacity at Indian ports has risen from 871.52 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in 2014-15 to 1629.86 MTPA in 2023-24. Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the capacity increased by 87 per cent in the last nine years, with Tamil Nadu’s Kamarajar Port registering a whopping swell of 154 per cent. Background: India is a maritime nation with a 7,517-km coastline Ninety-five per cent of trade by volume and 70 per cent by value is done through maritime transport. Key takeaways Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL), formerly known as Ennore Port, is located on the Coromandel Coast about 24 km north of Chennai Port in Tamil Nadu, India. History and Establishment Foundation: Kamarajar Port was declared a major port under the Indian Ports Act, 1908, in March 1999 and incorporated as Ennore Port Limited under the Companies Act, 1956, in October 1999. Name Change: It was renamed Kamarajar Port Limited in 2014 to honor the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, K. Kamarajar. Key Features First Corporatized Port: Kamarajar Port is the first corporatized major port in India. Strategic Location: The port is designed to decongest Chennai Port and improve environmental quality. Capacity: The port has a permissible draught of 13.5 meters and handled a total volume of 11.01 million tonnes in 2010-2011. Cargo Handling: The port handles a variety of cargo, including thermal coal, automobiles, project cargo, LPG, chemicals, and other bulk and liquid products. Source: New Indian Express THORIUM Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: India’s largest power generator NTPC Limited has signed a strategic pact with US-based Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) to explore development and deployment of advanced nuclear energy for enriched life (Aneel). Aneel is a thorium-based fuel for pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs), and the deal is subject to approval from both the governments. Background: – The move is aimed at NTPC’s efforts to venture into nuclear energy and use it as a clean, dispatchable, and baseload source of energy. Key takeaways Thorium is a weakly radioactive, silvery metal found naturally in the Earth’s crust. Thorium (chemical symbol Th) is found at trace levels in soil, rocks, water, plants and animals. All known

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) AMAZON CAPS BRUTAL YEAR OF FIRES, DROUGHT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: 2024 was a brutal year for the Amazon rainforest, with rampant wildfires and extreme drought ravaging large parts of a biome that’s a critical counterweight to climate change. Background: – The Amazon is twice the size of India and sprawls across eight countries and one territory, storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide that would otherwise warm the planet. About Amazon Rainforest The Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” is the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Lies within the Amazon River Basin, covering countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. Climate: Features an equatorial climate with high humidity, temperatures ranging from 25–30°C, and significant rainfall throughout the year. Environmental Significance Carbon Sink: Absorbs 2 billion tons of CO₂ annually, mitigating global warming. Oxygen Production: Contributes significantly to the global oxygen cycle, earning its nickname as the “lungs of the Earth.” Water Cycle Regulation: Produces 20% of the world’s freshwater runoff into the oceans via the Amazon River. Influences global and regional precipitation patterns, including the South American monsoon. Source: The Hindu INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: After Modi was sworn in for a third time in June, the year was jam-packed with incoming and outgoing visits. 2024 was full of global insecurity and shocks in the neighbourhood, particularly Bangladesh. Background: – As 2025 looks to be even more uncertain, Indian foreign policy’s biggest challenge is to remain poised for change. Key highlights of  India’s external relations in 2024 The most difficult negotiation completed was for disengagement at the Line of Actual Control with China. While restoring ties shattered by the Chinese transgressions since 2020 is a prolonged task, the first formal Modi-Xi Jinping meeting in five years at Kazan, on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Russia, was a turning point. Early in 2024, the conclusion of the India-European Free Trade Association agreement, India’s first with Europe, was heralded as a template for India to complete other such negotiations, although the year ended without similar progress on FTAs with Australia, the U.K., and the European Union. The transformation of Bangladesh, from a friendly neighbour under Sheikh Hasina, to becoming estranged over her ouster from power was the year’s biggest shock. The MEA repeatedly raised concerns over the sharp rise in attacks on Hindu minorities that followed, and Ms. Hasina’s stay in India has become the biggest thorn in the relationship. Ties with Canada took a turn for worse as Canada doubled down on allegations that Indian officials had ordered the Nijjar killing, even naming Home Minister Amit Shah in the alleged conspiracy. U.S. Department of Justice filed indictments against the Adani group and a new indictment against an Indian official for the alleged Pannun assassination plot comes as new challenges in relationship with US. The U.S.’s role in the South Asian neighbourhood, especially with the changes in Bangladesh, and China’s forays into Nepal and other neighbours are a continuing challenge. However, the election of U.S. President Donald Trump and the largely pro-India team he has picked could be a breather. How did Indian foreign policy navigate global conflict? With both the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israel’s war in Gaza, India consistently put itself on the “side of peace”. While New Delhi repeatedly called for an end to the civilian casualties, it continued to hedge its position at the UN on resolutions seeking to bring Israel to account for the killings in Gaza.  With multilateral initiatives like IMEC (India-Middle East Europe-Economic Corridor) and I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and U.S.) in trouble, India sought to engage West Asian countries bilaterally. Source: The Hindu TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The government of Trinidad and Tobago declared a state of emergency on Monday (December 30), following a deadly weekend of violence in the Caribbean dual-island nation. Background: Trinidad and Tobago has a population of 1.5 million and already accounted for one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, along with Jamaica and Haiti. Key takeaways Trinidad and Tobago is a twin-island nation located in the southern Caribbean, near the northeastern coast of Venezuela. It is the southernmost island country in the Caribbean. It is an active member of CARICOM, Organization of American States (OAS), and the Commonwealth of Nations. Trinidad is the larger and more populous island. Tobago, the smaller island is located northeast of Trinidad. The capital city is Port of Spain, located on the island of Trinidad. History Colonial Past: Trinidad was colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century, followed by the British in the 19th century. Tobago changed hands between the British and French several times before becoming a British colony. Indentured Labour: After the abolition of slavery, Indians were brought as indentured laborers (1845–1917) to work on sugar plantations, shaping the country’s demographics and culture. Independence: Trinidad and Tobago gained independence from Britain on August 31, 1962. Republic: The country became a republic within the Commonwealth on August 1, 1976. Culture Carnival: Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its Carnival, a world-renowned festival featuring colorful parades, music, and dance. Music: The islands are known for their contributions to calypso and soca music. Source: Indian Express UNDERWATER TELESCOPES TO DETECT ‘GHOST PARTICLES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: Scientists are deploying two telescopes to detect high-energy neutrinos, also known as ghost particles, under the Mediterranean Sea. The two telescopes are part of the Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope or KM3NeT. Background: – These telescopes are much like the IceCube Neutrino Observatory, which can detect high-energy neutrinos from deep space but is under the frozen ice in the Antarctic rather than being in the water. What are neutrinos? Detected for the first time in 1959 — though their existence was predicted almost three decades earlier, in 1931 — neutrinos are tiny particles, very similar to electrons, but without any electric charge.  They are one of the

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) UDISE DATA REVEALS SHIFT IN EDUCATION TRENDS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: For the first time in many years, enrolment of students in schools, as per a UDISE+ report, has declined by over a crore in 2022-23 and 2023-24 compared to an average of about 26 crore every year over the previous four years. Background: – For the first time, enrolment figures fell to 25.17 crore in 2022-23 and further declined to 24.8 crore in 2023-24. This represents a drop of about 1.55 crore students (nearly 6 per cent) from the 2018-19 to 2021-22 period, when enrolment averaged 26.36 crore. About UDISE + The Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) Plus is a data aggregation platform maintained by the education ministry to collate school education data from across the country. UDISE+ has a mandate of collecting information from all recognized schools imparting formal education from Pre-primary to XII. The Schools which get onboarded successfully on the platform are provided a UDISE Code, which acts as a national level unique identifier. UDISE+ has the school as the unit of data collection and district as the unit of data distribution. UDISE+, collects information through an online Data Collection Form (DCF) on parameters ranging from school, Infrastructure, teachers, enrolments, examination results etc. spread across 11 sections. UDISE serves as a crucial tool for monitoring and evaluating the quality of education. Drop in numbers Ministry officials acknowledged the drop in enrolment but said it stemmed from revised data collection methods implemented in 2022-23.  Under the new system, schools must now provide student-specific information rather than just school-level numbers. This requires detailed records for each student, including their name, parent’s name, address, and Aadhaar number, instead of simply reporting total class numbers. Source: Indian Express INDIAN COFFEE EXPORTS CROSS $1 BILLION FIRST TIME Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Traditionally a tea exporter, India is making significant inroads into the global coffee market with total exports during the current financial year up to November crossing the $1-billion mark for the first time, according to data from Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). Background: – Notably, India’s exports of tea saw little change despite expectations of gaining new markets following the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, one of the largest tea exporters in the world. Key takeaways India is the only country that grows all of its coffee under shade.  India is the seventh-largest producer of coffee globally. Types of Coffee Grown in India Arabica (Coffea arabica): Grown at higher altitudes (900–1,800 meters). Arabica has a higher market value than Robusta coffee due to its mild aromatic flavour. Requires a cool climate and less rainfall compared to Robusta. Robusta (Coffea canephora): Grown at lower altitudes (500–1,000 meters). Higher yield and more resistant to diseases. Preferred for instant coffee production due to its strong flavor. Major Coffee-Producing States Karnataka: Largest producer, accounting for about 70% of India’s coffee output. Key regions: Kodagu (Kodagu district alone produces 33% of India’s coffee) , Chikmagalur, Hassan. Kerala: Second-largest producer. Key regions: Wayanad, Idukki, and Palakkad. Tamil Nadu: Known for its coffee estates in the Nilgiri Hills. Important regions: Pulneys, Nilgiris, and Shevaroys. Non-traditional Areas: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and the northeastern states (especially Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland) are emerging coffee-growing regions. Climatic Requirements for Coffee Temperature: 15°C–28°C. Rainfall: 1,500–2,500 mm annually, well-distributed. Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter. Reasons for hike in export value The sharp growth is partly attributed to a surge in Robusta coffee prices and partly due to stocking ahead of the European Union’s new deforestation regulation that could raise the cost of coffee as well as several other agricultural exports to the EU. The European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), aimed at preventing products sold in the EU from being sourced from deforested land, was scheduled for implementation in December. However, the European Parliament recently decided to extend the regulation’s timeline by another year. According to the think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), the EUDR is expected to impact India’s agricultural exports to the EU, valued at $1.3 billion, more severely than exports from competing countries due to India’s higher deforestation rate. Source: Indian Express FOUR UN ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMITS FELL SHORT IN 2024 Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: The United Nations’ efforts to address critical environmental challenges hit roadblocks, with four key summits in 2024 — in Colombia on biodiversity, Azerbaijan on climate, Saudi Arabia on land degradation, and South Korea on plastics — failing to deliver meaningful outcomes. Background: This setback may lead to delayed action on critical issues such as climate finance, drought mitigation, and plastic pollution, with the most vulnerable countries suffering the greatest impact. Reasons for the setbacks in summits At the heart of the talks’ breakdown lies a stark and growing divergence in national priorities.  Developing nations, grappling with developmental challenges, economic constraints, and the impacts of climate change, have repeatedly demanded more technology transfer and financial support from developed countries. But developed nations are reluctant to commit resources citing domestic political pressures and economic challenges. For Example  Colombia Biodiversity Talks: Failure to agree on financing mechanisms for sustainable land-use practices. Azerbaijan Climate Summit: Developing nations sought $1.3 trillion annually; developed nations loosely agreed to lesser funds from diverse sources, including private investments. Disagreement over transitioning from fossil fuels hindered progress. South Korea Plastic Pollution Talks: Lack of consensus on a legally binding treaty. Economies dependent on plastics opposed strict measures, advocating for better usage and recycling practices instead. Several talks stumbled on disagreements over the frameworks needed to monitor and enforce environmental goals.  In Azerbaijan, discussions on implementing the global stocktake under the Paris Agreement saw divisions over the accountability mechanisms for emission reductions, particularly for high-emission nations. Global crises including the COVID, economic instability, and geopolitical conflicts have diverted attention and resources away from pressing environmental priorities as governments grapple with urgent domestic concerns such as public health, economic recovery, and social stability. The setbacks in negotiations complicate the task of addressing environmental

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) SREE NARAYANA GURU Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ART & CULTURE Context: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan used the inaugural event of the 92nd Sivagiri pilgrimage to slam what he saw as attempts to appropriate social reformer Sree Narayana Guru into the Sanatana Dharma fold. Background: – Sree Narayana Guru (1856–1928) , who founded the Sivagiri Madhom over a century ago, is regarded as one of the foremost social reformers of Kerala. About Sree Narayana Guru Sree Narayana Guru was born in 1856, in an Ezhava (an oppressed caste) family, in the village of Chempazhanthy near Thiruvananthapuram, in the erstwhile state of Travancore. Philosophy of Sree Narayana Guru Oneness of Humanity: Advocated the idea of “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind.” Believed that all humans are equal regardless of caste, religion, or social status. Spiritual Inclusivity: Emphasized the need for inner purity and self-realization over ritualistic practices. Promoted the idea that true spirituality transcends caste and social divisions. Education and Social Reform: Highlighted the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and social progress. Composed spiritual poems and hymns, including works like “Atmopadesa Shatakam” and “Daiva Dasakam”, to spread his teachings in a language accessible to all. Major Events Associated with Sree Narayana Guru Consecration of Aruvippuram Shiva Temple (1888): A revolutionary act challenging the Brahmanical monopoly over temple rituals. Establishment of SNDP Yogam (1903): Provided a platform for community organization and collective action against caste oppression. Sivagiri Ashram (1904) : He founded the Sivagiri Ashram, which became a center for spiritual and educational activities. Advaita Ashram at Aluva (1913): Founded to propagate Advaita philosophy and social reform. Vaikom Satyagraha (1924–1925): Guru’s support for the movement seeking temple entry for lower-caste communities was instrumental in its success. Consecration of a Mirror in Kalavancode Temple (1927): Symbolized the idea that divinity resides within oneself, rather than external idols. Source: Hindu FRONT-RUNNING Syllabus: Prelims – ECONOMY Context: The Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has unearthed a front-running scam in the securities market and debarred 22 entities, including stock brokers, for alleged involvement and impounded ₹66 crore as ‘wrongful gains.’ Background: – SEBI’s Prohibition of Fraudulent and Unfair Trade Practices Regulations (PFUTP) explicitly bans front-running. Key takeaways Front-running refers to the unethical or illegal practice where a broker, trader, or individual with insider access executes trades based on advance knowledge of pending large orders from clients or institutions that could influence market prices.  The objective is to profit from anticipated price movements before the larger trade impacts the market. How Front-Running Works Step 1: Advance Information (non-public information) : A broker or trader becomes aware of a large buy or sell order from a client or institutional investor. Step 2: Personal Trade Execution: Before executing the client’s order, the broker/trader places their own trade to benefit from the expected price movement. The large order impacts the market, and the broker/trader profits by selling or buying at a favorable price. Source: The Hindu WHOLESALE PRICE INDEX (WPI) AND PRODUCER PRICE INDEX (PPI) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The Centre announced the formation of an expert panel to revise the constituents of the country’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in light of the structural changes in the economy that have occurred between 2011-12, the current base year for the critical price gauge, and 2022-23 that would be the new base year. Background: The panel would also examine the composition of, and the methodology for compilation of a new Producers’ Price Index or PPI  and, more importantly, recommend a roadmap for India to switch over from using WPI to the PPI. The group has been asked to submit its final report to the Office of the Economic Adviser in the Commerce and Industry Ministry within 18 months, effectively giving it a June 30, 2026 deadline. Reasons for the setbacks in summits Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is a measure of the average change in the prices of goods at the wholesale level, before they reach the retail market. It is one of the key indicators to track inflation in the economy. Components of WPI in India Categories of Goods: Primary Articles (22.6% weight): Includes food articles, non-food articles, and minerals. Fuel and Power (13.2% weight): Includes items like coal, electricity, and mineral oils. Manufactured Products (64.2% weight): Includes various industrial goods such as textiles, chemicals, and machinery. Base Year: The current base year for WPI in India is 2011–12. Frequency of Data: WPI data is released monthly by the Office of the Economic Adviser, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Limitations of WPI Excludes Services: WPI does not account for the price changes in the service sector, which constitutes a significant part of India’s GDP. Retail Prices Missing: It measures prices at the wholesale level, not reflecting the actual burden on end consumers. Outdated Composition: The current WPI composition and weights do not fully represent India’s modern economic structure. Volatility in Primary Articles: Prices of primary articles, especially food, are subject to high seasonal volatility, skewing the index. Producer Price Index (PPI): An Alternative Producer Price Index (PPI) is a more comprehensive measure of inflation that tracks the average change in the selling prices received by domestic producers for their goods and services. Advantages of PPI Over WPI Covers Services: Unlike WPI, PPI includes the service sector, offering a holistic view of inflation. Reflects Supply-Side Dynamics: Tracks price changes throughout the production process, from raw materials to finished goods. International Best Practices: Most advanced economies like the US, UK, and the EU use PPI as a standard measure of inflation. Better Policy Insights: Provides insights into the supply chain, helping policymakers address inflationary pressures at their source. Source: The Hindu DI-AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE (DAP) Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Union Cabinet extended the one-time special subsidy on fertilizer Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) at a rate of ₹3,500 per metric tonne till from January 1, 2025 till further orders.   Background: – The extension is aimed at maintaining price stability and addressing the challenges posed

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) ANNUAL GROUNDWATER QUALITY REPORT 2024 Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Annual Groundwater Quality Report 2024 by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has pointed out concerns regarding ground water in various parts of the country arising from nitrates, arsenic, fluoride and uranium among others. Background: – While it is a good sign that India now has a robust, scientific system of assessment to monitor the health of groundwater blocks annually, efforts are lacking in getting States to act on these findings Key takeaways The number of districts with excessive nitrate in their groundwater has risen from 359 in 2017 to 440 in 2023. This translates to a little more than half of India’s 779 districts having excessive nitrate, or more than 45 mg/L (milligram per litre). There are two major concerns with excess nitrate content: first, methemoglobinemia, or a reduced ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. This sometimes causes ‘Blue Baby Syndrome,’ in infants.  The bigger problem is environmental: once nitrates in groundwater rise to the surface and become part of lakes and ponds, algal blooms throttle the health of aquatic ecosystems. High nitrate levels in groundwater can be a result of excessive irrigation which can push nitrates from fertilizers deep into the soil, the report said.  Poor management of animal waste in livestock farming adds to the problem, as it releases nitrates into the soil. Urbanisation and population growth increase wastewater and sewage, which often contain high nitrate levels, while leaking septic systems and poor sewage disposal worsen contamination. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat have a perennial nitrate problem, primarily from geological factors, with relative levels fairly constant since 2017, the report says. The report further said fluoride concentrations exceeding the permissible limit are a major concern in Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Elevated arsenic levels (more than 10 parts per billion) were found in several states, particularly in the floodplains of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers. Long-term exposure to fluoride and arsenic contaminants can have severe health consequences, including fluorosis (from fluoride) and cancer or skin lesions (from arsenic). Another major concern is the elevated levels of uranium in several regions. Forty-two per cent of samples with uranium concentrations exceeding 100 ppb (parts per billion) came from Rajasthan, and 30 per cent from Punjab, indicating regional hotspots of uranium contamination, the report said. Chronic exposure to uranium can lead to kidney damage. The report said that groundwater samples with uranium concentrations above 30 ppb were clustered in areas identified as over-exploited, critical and semi-critical groundwater stress zones, such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Source: Business Standard CASH TRANSFER SCHEMES Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: Increasing resort to cash transfer schemes by political parties for winning elections is a matter of serious concern. Background: – The success of incumbent parties in Maharashtra and Jharkhand appears to be the result of such cash-transfer schemes directed towards women. There are now more than 10 states that have either implemented or announced such schemes. Key takeaways The temptation to use cash transfers as the one-size-fits-all solution for political parties is many.  With universal access to financial services, these are easy-to-implement, tangible benefits for voters, directly delivered to beneficiaries.  The success of the scheme is also due to the preference of beneficiaries for such cash transfers as they are fungible and unconditional. Most importantly, they bypass middlemen. While cash transfers may be politically successful, there is no evidence of whether they actually deliver on the purpose for which they are designed.  A study on 20 cash transfer schemes in Latin America found inconclusive evidence regarding their impact on women’s empowerment. Similarly, cash transfers to farmers show limited evidence of success, with real incomes declining since 2018-19, leading to growing farmer unrest.  While it may be premature to assess impacts in the short run, the core issue lies in the assumption that cash transfers alone can solve complex problems, oversimplifying deeper systemic challenges. Most reforms require policy interventions, which are unlikely to result in any tangible gain in the short run, and require consensus-building and carefully-designed interventions with active participation and investment from the government machinery. For governments, the effort is not worth the benefits that cash transfers deliver in the short run. This is not to suggest that all cash transfers are undesirable. Programs like the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) have proven effective as social protection nets, while maternity entitlements and scholarships have contributed to improved human development outcomes. However, these schemes cannot replace state investments in services such as health and education. Instead, they function as complementary incentives, encouraging households/communities to utilize these services. One consequence of cash transfers has been the excessive fiscal strain on government finances at the cost of essential spending on health, education, nutrition or basic infrastructure.  While new cash transfers have been announced, spending on existing basic social protection such as the NSAP, MGNREGA or the maternity-entitlement scheme remains frozen with decline in real terms.  What is needed is a nuanced understanding of the role of cash transfers in supplementing and expanding the social safety nets rather than a quick-fix solution guaranteed to deliver political dividends. Source: Indian Express RIGHT TO PROPERTY Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The right to property is a human right and a constitutional right and no person can be deprived of his or her property without being paid adequate compensation, the Supreme Court ruled recently while also holding that in exceptional circumstances of inordinate delay in disbursement of compensation, the date of fixing the valuation can be shifted to a more recent one. Background: Supreme Court in the judgment directed that compensation to people who lost their land for the over 20,000-acre Bengaluru-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor (BMIC) project over two decades ago, must be paid according to the market value prevailing in 2019. Key takeaways from the judgement Right to Property ceased to be a Fundamental Right by the Constitution

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) MAHA KUMBH MELA Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is scheduled to commence on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan, and will conclude on February 26, 2025. Background: – Maha Kumbh Mela is rooted in Hindu mythology and is considered an opportunity for devotees to absolve sins and attain Moksha, or liberation. In 2017, the Kumbh Mela was declared India’s ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ by UNESCO. Key takeaways The Kumbh Mela is celebrated four times in a 12-year span – once every three years, and it is held in four places in rotation, which are Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Ancient Hindu epics and literature, such as the Mahabharata and Puranas, are where the Kumbh Mela got its start. According to the Amrit Manthan tradition, four drips of amrita, or nectar, dropped on the ground at each of the four Kumbh Mela places. Maha Kumbh and Kumbh  Maha Kumbh Mela and Kumbh Mela are two significant Hindu religious gatherings that attract millions of devotees; however, there are some differences between the two: The Mahakumbh Mela occurs once every 12 years and is considered the most sacred of all Kumbh Melas. Whereas Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 3 years, rotating among four locations: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj, with each location hosting the Kumbh Mela in a cycle that ensures each site is featured once every 12 years. The Mahakumbh Mela is primarily held at Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge. Participating in the Mahakumbh Mela is believed to provide immense spiritual benefits, including purification of sins and attainment of salvation. While Kumbh Mela is also significant for spiritual growth and purification, it is viewed as less potent than the Mahakumbh. Lastly, the Mahakumbh Mela attracts an estimated 40 crore devotees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, while the Kumbh Mela, generally sees lesser participants due to its more frequent occurrence and smaller scale. Source: Indian Express VEDANTA Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ART & CULTURE Context: Vice-President addressed the inauguration ceremony of the 27th International Congress of Vedanta at JNU. Background: – Vedanta is not a relic of the past, it is relevant for the present as it offers a blueprint for the future, Vice-President said. Key takeaways Vedanta, derived from Sanskrit (Veda + Anta), means “the end or culmination of knowledge.” It represents one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy and focuses on understanding the ultimate nature of reality, human existence, and the self.  Origin: Based on the teachings of the Upanishads, which are philosophical interpretations of the Vedas. The term “Vedanta” initially referred to the concluding sections of the Vedas but evolved to denote the philosophical essence of the Vedic texts. Sacred Texts: Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, Bhagavad Gita. Core Concepts Brahman: Ultimate, unchanging reality that is infinite and eternal. Atman: The individual soul or self, identical to Brahman in Advaita Vedanta. Maya: Illusory power that creates the perception of duality and the material world. Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), achieved through self-realization and union with Brahman. Philosophical Schools of Vedanta – Vedanta has evolved into multiple sub-schools, each with its interpretation of the Upanishads: Advaita Vedanta (Non-dualism): Associated with : Adi Shankaracharya. Core Idea: Brahman (ultimate reality) is the only truth; the world is an illusion (Maya). Vishishtadvaita (Qualified Non-dualism): Associated with : Ramanujacharya. Core Idea: Brahman is the supreme reality but manifests with qualities (Saguna Brahman). Dvaita (Dualism): Associated with: Madhvacharya. Core Idea: Distinction between God (Brahman) and individual souls (Jiva) is real. It also states that the physical universe is real and not an illusion. Other Schools: Shuddhadvaita (Pure Non-dualism) by Vallabhacharya. Achintya Bheda Abheda (Inconceivable Oneness and Difference) by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Source: PIB METHYLCOBALAMIN Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has provided clarity on use of methylcobalamin, a form of Vitamin B12, in health supplements, medical purposes and nutraceutical products. Background: Most of the Indian population is deficient of methylcobalamin due to a number of factors and most important among them is the higher vegetarian population. Key takeaways Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12, which is essential for various bodily functions. Because of the distinctive methyl group (-CH3) bonded to the cobalt atom, methylcobalamin differs structurally from other forms of vitamin B12, such as cyanocobalamin, adenosylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin. Because of this structural change, methylcobalamin has different biochemical characteristics and greater bioavailability, making it the most functional and easily absorbed form of Vitamin B12. Functions Red Blood Cell Production: Essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Nervous System: Supports the health of the nervous system and helps in the maintenance of nerve cells. Energy Metabolism: Helps in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates for energy. DNA Synthesis: Plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair Sources: Found in animal-based foods such as fish, meat, eggs, and dairy. Not present in significant quantities in plant-based foods, making vegetarians and vegans more susceptible to deficiency. Source: Hindu Businessline EUROPA AND NASA’S MISSIONS Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The icy crust on Jupiter’s moon Europa is much thicker than scientists had thought, which could quash the hope of finding the ingredients for life in the oceans beneath its surface. Background: – Using measurements collected by NASA’s Juno spacecraft, researchers estimated the ice is around 35 km thick, which could suggest the ocean doesn’t have the heat or chemical reactions needed to spark life. The crust could thwart the efforts of NASA’s Europa Clipper to investigate the moon for the ingredients for life. Key takeaways Europa is one of Jupiter’s largest moons and is particularly fascinating due to its potential to harbor extraterrestrial life. Europa was discovered by Galileo Galilei and Simon Marius on January 8, 1610. Europa has an equatorial diameter of about 1,940 miles (3,100 kilometers), making it roughly 90% the size of Earth’s Moon. NASA has undertaken two significant missions to explore Jupiter and its moons: the Juno mission and the Europa Clipper mission. Juno Mission Launched

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) CRIMEA Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Russia officials in Crimea announced a regional emergency on Saturday, as oil was detected on the shores of Sevastopol, the peninsula’s largest city. Background: – Fuel oil spilled out of two storm-stricken tankers nearly three weeks ago in the Kerch Strait, close to eastern Crimea — about 250 kilometers from Sevastopol, which lies on the southwest of the peninsula. Key takeaways Crimea is a peninsula in Eastern Europe, located on the northern coast of the Black Sea and almost entirely surrounded by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. The peninsula is divided into three main zones: mountains, steppe, and the southern coast. The Crimean Mountains rise to 1,545 meters at their highest point, Roman-Kosh. Water Bodies: Crimea has numerous rivers, including the Salhyr, Alma, Kacha, and Belbek. It also has several salt pans and salty lakes, with Lake Sasyk being the largest. Crimea was part of Ukraine until 2014, when Russia annexed the peninsula, a move that was widely condemned by the international community. Economy Agriculture: The steppe region of Crimea is under intensive agricultural cultivation, with crops like winter wheat, corn, potatoes, and sunflowers. Industry: Crimea has a spa industry due to its mud volcanoes and mineral springs, and large-scale iron ore mining in the Kerch Peninsula. Crimea Bridge: Constructed in 2018, this bridge spans the Strait of Kerch, linking Crimea with Russia. Source: Indian Express GURU GOBIND SINGH Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: Every year, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is observed on January 6 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru.  Background: – It is one of the most significant festivals for the Sikh community. This day also commemorates Guru Gobind Singh’s leadership and influence in developing Sikh identity and principles such as equality, justice, and community service. Key takeaways Guru Gobind Singh was named the tenth and last Guru of the Sikhs at the age of nine, following the death of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru.  Guru Tegh Bahadur was martyred by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam. Guru Gobind Singh is known to have introduced the five ‘K’s, the Five Articles of Faith that the Sikhs abide by: Kesh: uncut hair, Kangha: a wooden comb, Kara: an iron or steel bracelet worn on the wrist, Kirpan: a sword, Kacchera: short breeches. Guru Gobind Singh is credited with the Dasam Granth whose hymns are a sacred part of Sikh prayers and Khalsa rituals. Guru Gobind Singh declared the Holy Scriptures of Guru Granth Sahib as the permanent Guru of Sikhs. He passed away in 1708. Guru Gobind Singh established the institution of Panj Piare while founding the Khalsa on the day of Baisakhi in 1699. Addressing a large gathering, he asked for five heads for sacrifice. Five men responded to his call and the Guru baptised them and called them Panj Piare. The inaugural group of Panj Piare formed the nucleus of the Khalsa. However, the term is not limited only to this inaugural group. After them, any group of five baptised Sikhs are also referred to as the Panj Pyare. Guru Gobind Singh’s four sons, were killed during his lifetime – the elder two in a battle with Mughals, and the younger two executed by the Mughal governor of Sirhind. Guru Gobind Singh led several battles against the Mughal Empire and hill rajas. Aurangzeb died in 1707, and immediately a succession struggle began between his sons who attacked each other. Guru Gobind Singh supported Bahadur Shah I in the Battle of Jajau. In 1708 the Guru was assassinated after being stabbed by a Pashtun in Nanded, Maharashtra, on the orders of Mughal ruler Nawab Wazir Khan of Sirhind, who was driven by insecurity over the Guru’s cordial relations with Emperor Bahadur Shah.  When Bahadur Shah learned that the Guru had been stabbed, he dispatched surgeons, to tend to his injuries. Despite their efforts, the wounds reopened after being stitched, leading to the Guru’s death on October 7, 1708.  Source: Indian Express ENHANCING GOVERNANCE THE DIGITAL WAY Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: In recent years, India has embarked on an ambitious journey toward digital governance. Despite the strides made, more needs to be done to fully realise the potential of digital governance. Background: At its core, governance is a complex web of decision-making processes that involves stakeholders, from government bodies and non-governmental organisations to local community leaders and influential citizens. Key takeaways India’s transition to digital governance aims to improve citizen services and enhance government workforce capabilities. Digital governance represents a paradigm shift in how government employees and associated service providers or intermediaries such as contractors should engage with their work.  The adoption of technology in governance facilitates more effective communication, informed decision-making, and streamlined workflows.  Capacity Building in Digital Governance The pressing need for government employees to become adept at navigating digital platforms is paramount in a world that is increasingly technology-driven. Initiatives such as the iGOT Karmayogi platform have taken centre-stage. The online training portal aims to equip officials with essential skills in data analytics, public administration, and digital technologies. Equally transformative is the e-Office initiative, which digitises government workflows, drastically reducing reliance on paperwork and enhancing operational efficiency. By automating file management, workflows, and grievance redress, the initiative promotes real-time communication and transparency.  Another initiative is the transition of procurement processes to the online sphere, with platforms like the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) playing a crucial role. Challenges in Digital Governance Resistance to Change: Government workforce segments exhibit varying levels of readiness and enthusiasm for adopting new technologies. Lack of Incentives: The lack of incentives raises concerns that initiatives such as the iGOT Karmayogi platform could become merely attendance trackers. It is worth considering whether trainings lead to meaningful outcomes — such as opportunities to apply new skills through relevant job postings. Digital Divide: Limited access to high-speed Internet and digital tools, especially in rural areas. Cybersecurity Concerns: Increased risks of data breaches and cyberattacks with online operations. Continuous Learning Needs: Rapid technological evolution demands ongoing training and upskilling