Current Affairs

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Gir calf and breed Syllabus Prelims –Science and technology Context: Recently, India’s first cloned desi Gir female calf, Ganga was produced at NDRI. About Gir calf and breed:- IMAGE SOURCE: THE NEW MACDONALD PHARM | SCQ (ubc.ca) This breed is otherwise known as Desan, Gujarati, Kathiawari, Sorthi, and Surati. It originated in the Gir forests of South Kathiawar in Gujarat. It derives its name from the Gir forest, which is the natural habitat of the breed. Gir cattle is a dairy cattle breed and is mainly raised for milk production in India. Under a project by National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal to work on cloning of indigenous cow breeds such as Gir and Sahiwal, India’s first cloned Gir female calf named ‘Ganga’. Distribution:- The native tract of Gir cattle is the Gir hills and forests of Kathiawar. It includes the Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh and Rajkot districts of Gujarat. The breed is also known as Bhodali, Gujarati, Sorthi, Surti, Kathiawari and Desan. Export:- Gir cattle are also very popular outside India. United States, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil have imported this breed. Process:- To clone the Gir, oocytes are isolated from live animals using ultrasound-guided needles, and then, matured for 24 hours under control conditions. The somatic cells of elite cows are used as donor genomes, which are fused with OPU-derived enucleated oocytes. Following chemical activation and in-vitro culture, the developed blastocysts are transferred into recipient mothers to deliver the Gir calf. About National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI):- ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) is located in Karnal, Haryana. It is one of the premier Institutes in the dairy sector. It has played a crucial role in India’s development in milk production with its continuous research. The Institute has the distinction of being a Deemed University for implementing its academic programmes since 1989. The Institute provides high-quality education in the field of dairying, which has no parallel in Asia The Institute has been ranked first among all Agricultural Universities of India including 4 Deemed Universities consecutively three times in the years 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19. The Institute has also conferred the ‘Sardar Patel Outstanding ICAR Institute award’ in 2014. It was awarded Agriculture Leadership Award 2013 for setting up a benchmark in dairy research by contributing to research efforts to augment milk productivity, value addition, quality and safety of milk and economic and marketing aspects related to dairying. Prior to this, the Institute also received Education Leadership Award in recognition of the talent and leadership among educational institutes across India. MUST READ: New Breeds of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) SOURCE: THE ECONOMIC TIMES PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2020) Genetic changes can be introduced in the cells that produce eggs or sperm of a prospective parent. A person’s genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig. Which of the statements given above is/are correct 1 only 2 and 3 only 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, ‘Pronuclear Transfer” is used for (2020) Fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm Genetic modification of sperm-producing cells Development of stem cells into functional embryos Prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring Institute of Cost Accountants of India Syllabus Prelims –Economy (Important Institutions) Context: Recently, the Delhi HC restrained the Institute of Cost Accountants of India from using the ICAI acronym. About the Institute of Cost Accountants of India:- It was first established in 1944 as a registered company under the Companies Act. Objectives: the objects of promoting, regulating and developing the profession of Cost Accountancy. In May 1959, the Institute was established by a special act of Parliament, namely, the Cost and Works Accountants Act, 1959 as a statutory professional body. The Institute of Cost Accountants of India is the only recognised statutory professional organisation and licensing body in India specialising exclusively in Cost and Management Accountancy. Cost Accountant: a person who offers to perform or perform services involving the costing or pricing of goods and services or the preparation, verification or certification of cost accounting and related statements. The head office is situated in Kolkata. Objectives of the Institute:- To develop the Cost and Management Accountancy function as a powerful tool of management control in all spheres of economic activities. To promote and develop the adoption of scientific methods in cost and management accountancy. To develop the professional body of members. To keep abreast of the latest developments in cost and management accounting principles To exercise supervision for the entrants to the profession  To ensure strict adherence to the best ethical standards by professionals. To organise seminars and conferences on subjects of professional interest. To carry out research and publication activities covering various economic spheres. Publishing of books and booklets for spreading information of professional interest. MUST READ: Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG) and Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2022) In India, credit rating agencies are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India. The rating agency popularly known as ICRA is a public limited company. Brickwork Ratings is an Indian credit rating agency. Which of the statements given above is correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) With reference to the ‘Banks Board Bureau (BBB)’, which of the following statements is correct? (2022) The Governor of RBI is the Chairman of BBB. BBB recommends the selection of heads for Public Sector Banks. BBB helps Public Sector Banks develop strategies and capital-raising plans. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Syllabus Prelims –Economy Context: Recently, Britain agreed to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) World Energy Transitions Outlook report Syllabus Prelims –Environment and Ecology Context: Recent reports have suggested that the global energy transition has made progress but it falls short of the 1.5°C pathway. About World Energy Transitions Outlook report:- It is taken out by International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The World Energy Transitions Outlook outlines a vision for the transition of the energy landscape to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. It presents a pathway for limiting global temperature rise to within 1.5°C of pre-industrial levels and bringing CO2 emissions to net zero by mid-century. It outlook charts an evolving pathway to achieving a climate-safe future in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.  Its 1.5°C pathway offers a roadmap for accelerating the global energy transition by positioning electrification and efficiency as key drivers of change, backed by renewables, hydrogen and sustainable biomass. This Preview presents high-level insights from the forthcoming 2023 report, which builds on two of IRENA’s key scenarios to capture global progress toward meeting the 1.5°C climate goal: the Planned Energy Scenario (PES) and the 1.5°C Scenario. International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA):-  It is an intergovernmental organisation. It was officially founded in Bonn, Germany, in 2009. It has 167 members and India is the 77th Founding Member of IRENA. It has its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. MUST READ: Renewable Energy Transition SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) “Climate Action Tracker” which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a: (2022) Database created by a coalition of research organisations Wing of “International Panel of Climate Change” Committee under “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change” Agency promoted and financed by United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2016) The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 India Justice Report 2022 Syllabus Prelims –Polity Context: Recently, in the India Justice Report (IJR) 2022 the State of Karnataka has achieved the top rank. About India Justice Report 2022:- It was initiated by Tata Trusts in 2019. This is the third edition. The foundation’s partners include the Centre for Social Justice, Common Cause, Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, DAKSH, TISS-Prayas, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy and How India Lives, IJR’s data partner. This report is based on overall data of 4 pillars of justice delivery namely Police, Judiciary, Prisons, and Legal Aid. It also separately assesses the capacity of the 25 State Human Rights Commissions in the country. Findings of the report:- Few number of judges: High courts: As of December 2022, against a sanctioned strength of 1,108 judges, the High Courts were functioning with only 778 judges. Subordinate courts: The subordinate courts were found functioning with 19,288 judges against a sanctioned strength of 24,631 judges. Rising pendency: The number of cases pending per judge is rising in most States over the past five years. At High Court level: Uttar Pradesh has the highest average pendency – cases remain pending for an average of 11.34 years, West Bengal for 9.9 years. The lowest average High Court pendency is in Tripura (1 year), Sikkim (1.9 years) and Meghalaya (2.1 years). Number of cases per judge: The number of cases a judge has to deal with has steadily increased. Between 2018 and 2022, the caseload per judge increased in 22 States and Union Territories. Case clearance rate: The case clearance rate (CCR), or the number of cases disposed of in a year measured against the number filed in that year, is a common metric used to determine the rate at which cases are disposed of. The report found that the High Courts are clearing more cases annually than the subordinate courts. Between 2018-19 and 2022, the national average improved by six percentage points (88.5% to 94.6%) in High Courts, but declined by 3.6 points in lower courts (93% to 89.4%). Tripura is the only State where the CCR in district courts remained above 100%, with the exception of 2020 — the year of the pandemic. Number of court halls: Nationally, the number of court halls appears sufficient for the number of actual judges. However, that space will become a problem if all the sanctioned posts are filled. Caste based reservation: Though caste-based reservations vary from State to State, at the district court level, no State or Union Territory could fully meet all its Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes quotas. State-wise data on caste diversity in High Courts remains unavailable. Representation of Women: There are more women judges at the district court level than at the High Court level, with 35% of the total number of judges at the district court level and only 13% of judges in the High Courts across the country being women. Goa, with 70%, has the highest percentage of women judges at subordinate courts, followed by Meghalaya and Nagaland at 63% each. Among the High Courts, Sikkim, with a total strength of just three judges, has the highest national average at 33.3% of women judges. Bihar, Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Uttarakhand continued to have no women judges in their High Courts.   MUST READ: Judicial Accountability SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2022) Pursuant to the report of the H.N. Sanyal Committee, the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 was passed. The Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and the High Courts to punish for contempt of themselves. The Constitution of India defines Civil Contempt and Criminal Contempt. In India, the Parliament is vested with the power to make laws on Contempt of Court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 4 only 3 and 4 only 3 only Q.2) With reference to India, consider the following statements: (2022)

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary Syllabus Prelims – Environment and Ecology Context: As per recent announcements the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh would soon be notified as a tiger reserve. About Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary:- Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary is located nearby Anini district, Arunachal Pradesh. It has been named after the Dibang River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River. It occupies part of the Eastern Himalayas. Flora: the two main categories of vegetation are temperate broad-leaved forest and temperate conifer forest (Rhododendron, Bamboo, Gregaria, Tsuga etc). Alpine vegetation occurs at higher altitudes with herbs, stunted trees and dwarf bushes. Fauna: Mishmi takin, Asiatic black bear, tigers, gongshan muntjac, red panda, red goral and musk deer.  About Idu Mishmis:- It is a sub-tribe of the larger Mishmi group in Arunachal Pradesh and neighbouring Tibet. They primarily live in Mishmi Hills, bordering Tibet. They are believed to have migrated from the Mongoloid race. Mongoloid race: belong to the Tibeto-Burman family. Their language (also called Idu Mishmi) is considered endangered by UNESCO. They follow a strict belief system of myths and taboos like ‘iyu-ena’. Iyu-ena: restrict them from hunting many animals, including a complete prohibition on killing tigers. MUST READ: Wildlife Conservation in Arunachal Pradesh SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) In which one of the following states is Pakhui wildlife sanctuary located? (2018) Arunachal Pradesh Manipur Meghalaya Nagaland Q.2) Consider the following statements? (2018) The definition of “Critical Wildlife Habitat” is incorporated in the forest rights act 2006 For the first time in India, Baigas have been given habitat rights Union Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change officially decides and declares Habitat Rights for Primitive and Vulnerable Tribal Groups in any part of India Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Syllabus Prelims – Environment and Ecology Context: Recently, the Kerala High Court ordered the translocation of Arikompan to Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. About Parambikulam Tiger Reserve:- IMAGE SOURCE: View of Small carnivores of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, southern Western Ghats, India | Journal of Threatened Taxa Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is located in the Palakkad and Thrissur districts of Kerala, South India.  It includes the former Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, which was established in part in 1973 and 1984. It stood 7th in the country in terms of Management Effectiveness in the 2018 Assessment (among 50 Tiger Reserves in the country). The area was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2010.  A total extent of 643.66 sq km, out of which an extent of 390.89 km2 has been declared as the core or critical tiger habitat and 252.77 km2 as the buffer zone of the Tiger Reserve. Parambikulam is a well-protected part of the Nelliampathy – Anamalai sub-unit of the Western Ghat. Nelliampathy: Anamalai sub-unit of the Western Ghats. Habitat: evergreen forests, moist and dry deciduous forests and grasslands.  Other unique habitats like montane grasslands and marshy grasslands (locally known as ‘vayals’) are extensively found.  Parambikulam has one of the highest densities of the Gaur population in Southern India. It is also home to four different tribes of indigenous peoples, including the Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar, and Mala Malasar, settled in six colonies.  The only South Indian wild goat, the Nilgiri Tahr is also found MUST READ:  Global Conservation Assured|Tiger Standards (CA|TS) SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) The term M-STrIPES’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of (2017) Captive breeding of Wild Fauna Maintenance of Tiger Reservoirs Indigenous Satellite Navigation System Security of National Highways Q.2) Recently, there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites? (2017) Corbett National Park Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary Sariska National Park Rare earth elements(REE) Syllabus Prelims –Science and technology Context: Recently, large deposits of 15 rare earth elements (REE) were recently found in Andhra Pradesh’s Anantapur district. About Rare earth elements (REE):- IMAGE SOURCE: imgurl:https://www.insightsonindia.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Rare_Earth_Elements-300×232.jpg?is-pending-load=1 – Bing Rare earth elements are a set of seventeen metallic elements in the periodic table. The 17 Rare Earths are cerium (Ce), dysprosium (Dy), erbium (Er), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), holmium (Ho), lanthanum (La), lutetium (Lu), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), promethium (Pm), samarium (Sm), scandium (Sc), terbium (Tb), thulium (Tm), ytterbium (Yb), and yttrium (Y). They are characterized by high density, high melting point, high conductivity, and high thermal conductance. They do not occur in a free state rather are found in mineral oxide ores. They occur abundantly but are often not concentrated enough to undertake viable extraction. Uses of Rare earth elements:- They are widely used in high technology owing to their luminescent and catalytic properties. Neodymium, is a critical component for permanent. Aerospace and Defence: it is used in precision-guided munitions in missiles, high-power sonar on ships and submarines, stealth helicopters, etc. Health care: are used in medical imaging devices, such as MRIs, and modern surgical machines. Clean Energy: is used in wind turbines, electric car batteries and energy-efficient lights (LEDs and CFLs). Nuclear Energy: these are useful for controlling nuclear reactions and are used in control rods. Electronics: Used as phosphors in cathode ray tubes, fluorescent lamps and X-ray intensifying screens. Chemicals, Oil Refining, and manufacturing: Make the refining of crude oil into gasoline more efficient and are used in many speciality metal alloys. Europium is necessary for LED bulbs and colour television screens.  Samarium is used in optical lasers. India’s situation:- India is almost 100% import-dependent for most rare earth. However, India possesses the 5th highest reserves of rare earth in the world In India, rare earth minerals like ilmenite, sillimanite, garnet, zircon, monazite, and rutile, collectively are found and these are called Beach Sand Minerals (BSM). Monazite is the principal source. It is mainly found in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. International situation:- IMAGE SOURCE: World map showing reserves of rare earth metals, vital to the… | Download

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Kaushambi Mahotsav-2023 Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Recently, the Union Home Minister inaugurated the Kaushambi Mahotsav-2023 and paid tribute to Durga Bhabhi. About Kaushambi Mahotsav-2023:- Kaushambi Mahotsav-2023 is a sports festival. It is organized by the Member of Parliament. These Khel Mahotsavs give platforms to young players to showcase their talent  About 16000 youths online applied to participate in the ‘Sansad Khelkood Spardha’ Sansad Khelkood Spardha: started by the Members of Parliament. About Durga Bhabhi:- Durga Devi was a freedom fighter from Kaushambi. She was fondly called ‘Durga Bhabhi’. She was married to Bhagwati Charan Vohra. She had spent her savings ₹5,000 given by her husband on revolutionary works and in support of Indian revolutionaries fighting against British imperialism. She was a woman revolutionary and spy. She gave shelter to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru after the assassination of  Assistant Superintendent of Police John Saunders and later rescued them out of Lahore by agreeing to introduce herself as Bhagat Singh’s wife to save him from the British police. She met several Bengali revolutionaries and even learned bomb-making. She was an active member of the Naujawan Bharat Sabha. On 8 October 1930, she fired on a British sergeant and his wife near the police station in South Bombay’s Lamington Road, before escaping. The shooting was to avenge the death sentence awarded to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru. She was finally arrested in September 1932. In 1935, she moved to Ghaziabad and started teaching in a school. Later, she opened a school in Lucknow for poor children. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru even visited the school once, About Mahajanpadas:- IMAGE SOURCE: Formation of States (Mahajanapadas): Republic and Monarchies – SELF STUDY HISTORY The Mahjanapadas were sixteen oligarchic republics or kingdoms that existed in ancient India. It existed from the sixth to the fourth century BCE. There were sixteen of such Mahajanapadas: Kasi, Kosala, Anga, Magadha, Vajji, Malla, Chedi, Vatsa, Kuru, Panchala, Machcha, Surasena, Assaka, Avanti, Gandhara and Kamboja. The strongest and most influential Mahajanapada was Magadha. When the tribes (Janas) of the late Vedic period made the decision to establish their own territorial communities. It resulted, in new and long-lasting regions of settlement known as “states” or “janapadas” Janapadas: small kingdoms known that eventually gave rise to Mahajanapadas. The 16 Mahajanapadas were:- Mahajanpadas           Capital Anga                           Champa Magadha                    Rajagriha Kasi                             Kasi Vatsa                           Kaushambi Kosala                         Shravasti (northern), Kushavati (southern) Shurasena                   Mathura Panchala                     Ahichchhatra and Kampilya Kuru                            Indraprastha Matsya                       Viratanagara Chedi                          Sothivathi Avanti                         Ujjaini or Mahishmati Gandhara                   Taxila Kamboja                     Poonch Asmaka                       Potali/Podana Vajji                             Vaishali Malla                          Kusinara MUST READ: SVAMITVA Scheme and PM SVANidhi scheme SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements : (2018) It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. It among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 3 only 2 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 and 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. Legal notice Syllabus Prelims –Polity Context: Recently, Netflix sent a legal notice regarding the sitcom ‘The Big Bang Theory’s‘ derogatory reference to Madhuri Dixit. About legal notice:- IMAGE SOURCE: What You Need to Know About a Legal Notice? (vakilsearch.com) A legal notice is a formal written communication between the parties. Through a legal notice, the sender notifies the recipient about his intention of undertaking legal proceedings against the latter. A legal notice also helps in making the receiving party aware of the grievances of the sender. It works as a last warning to the receiver to fulfil a certain condition if he does not want a court battle. It is a tool to save time and cost of litigation as it opens the door for the parties to settle the matter through negotiation, mediation or arbitration. It is used in a wide variety of situations:- In Consumer Forums: In case, a faulty product or service is provided to a person he or she can send a legal notice to the concerned person and ask him to rectify the deficiencies. Disputes related to property such as partition, eviction or issues relating to possession of the property. Loan Defaulters: Under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act), the debt recovery proceedings begin by sending a legal notice to the defaulters. Cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act: In case of dishonour of cheque, the aggrieved can send a legal notice for recovery of payment. Money Recovery Cases: The first step in money recovery cases is sending a legal notice to the concerned person. Employee and Employer/Company: If the employer in any way deprives the employees of their salary, then the employee can send a legal notice to the employer. MUST READ: National Legal Services Authority SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to India, consider the following statements: (2021) Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such an accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) With reference to

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Earth4All Initiative Syllabus Prelims – Geography Context: Recently published Earth4All Initiative predicted the world’s human population. About Earth4All Initiative:- Earth4All is a collective initiative of leading economic thinkers, scientists, and advocates. It is convened by The Club of Rome, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, the Stockholm Resilience Centre and the Norwegian Business School. It is guided by a Transformational Economics Commission, made up of economic thinkers from across the globe to explore new economic thinking and test the model outcomes. Its global campaign aims to make the Earth4All vision a reality, advocating for governments to adopt policies that will enable resilient and healthy societies. Findings of the Report:- The researchers advance two scenarios: Too Little, Too Late: predicts that if economic development continues as it has in the last five decades, the world’s population would peak at 8.6 billion in 2050, and decline to 7 billion by 2100. The Giant Leap: the researchers conclude that the population will peak at 8.5 billion by 2040 but then rapidly decline to around 6 billion by 2100. This will be due to our investments in poverty alleviation, gender equity, education and health, ameliorating inequality, and food and energy security. The Earth4All report contradicted the U.N. ‘World Populations Prospects 2022’ report, which predicted that the global population would steadily rise to 10.4 billion in 2080 and then stabilise around that number in 2100. Indian Scenario:- As of 2022, more than half the world’s population lives in Asia. China and India are the two most populous countries. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), while India’s population growth is stabilising, it is still growing at 0.7% Steps taken by India for Stabilising Population Mission Parivar Vikas Compensation scheme for sterilization acceptors: Under the scheme, MoHFW provides compensation for loss of wages to the beneficiary. Clinical Outreach Teams (COT) Scheme: for providing Family planning services through mobile teams Scheme for Home delivery of contraceptives by ASHAs at t   doorstep of beneficiaries. Family Planning Logistic Management and Information System (FP-LMIS): A dedicated software to ensure smooth forecasting, procurement and distribution of family planning National Family Planning Indemnity Scheme (NFPIS) under which clients are insured in the eventualities of death, complication and failure following sterilization. Ensuring quality of care in Family Planning services by establishing Quality Assurance Committees in all states and districts. MUST READ: World Population Prospects SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following? (2018) Amnesty International International Court of Justice The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights World Justice Project Q.2) Consider the following pairs: Community sometimes in the affairs mentioned in the news (2016) Kurd: Bangladesh Madhesi: Nepal Rohingya : Myanmar Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? 1 and 2 2 only 2 and 3 3 only Bharat Gaurav scheme Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: The Indian Railways announced recently, that it will operate a tourist train to Kashmir Valley under the Bharat Gaurav scheme. About the Bharat Gaurav scheme:- IMAGE SOURCE: India’s First Private Train Under Bharat Gaurav Scheme Heads To Shirdi From Coimbatore – DriveSparkGroup 3Group 3Group 3Group 3 Indian Railways(Ministry of Railways) launched the operation of the theme-based Bharat Gaurav train in 2021. It was announced under the theme-based tourist circuit trains. These trains will be run, by both private players and IRCTC. Under the scheme, now trains have a third segment for tourism. Till now, the Railways had passenger segments and goods segments. These trains are not regular trains that will run as per a timetable.  It will be more on the lines of the Ramayana Express being run by the IRCTC. The train originates from Coimbatore. Tourists can board it at Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Hosur, Yelahanka, Perambur, Vijayawada and Warangal. Objective: to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and magnificent historical places to the people of India and the world, through Bharat Gaurav Trains. According to the Bharat Gaurav policy, any operator or service provider, or virtually anyone, can lease trains from Indian Railways to run on a theme-based circuit as a special tourism package. The tenure: a minimum of two years and a maximum of the codal life of the coach. MUST READ: Bharat Gaurav express trains and PRASAD Project SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017? (2019) Pregnant women are entitled to three months of pre-delivery and three months of post-delivery paid leave. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother a minimum of six creche visits daily. Women with two children get reduced entitlements. Select the correct answer using the code given below. 1 and 2 only 2 only 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 and 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. Taiwan strait Syllabus Prelims –Geography and International Relations Context: Recently, China conducted a military drill in the Taiwan Strait. About Taiwan Strait:- IMAGE SOURCE: cover-taiwan (cover man. be) The Taiwan Strait is a 180 km wide strait separating Taiwan and mainland China. It is also known as the Formosa Strait. Strait: a narrow piece of the sea that joins two larger seas The strait is currently part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea to the north. The entire strait is on Asia’s continental shelf. Historically both the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Taiwan espoused a One-China Policy. One-China Policy: that considered the strait part of the exclusive economic zone of a single “China”. MUST READ:

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) The Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Recently, SpaceX launched NASA’s TEMPO air quality monitoring instrument. About The Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument:- IMAGE SOURCE: The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is working with NASA to Build the First Space-Based Instrument to Continuously Monitor Air Pollution across North America | Smithsonian Global The Tropospheric Emissions Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument will monitor major air pollutants across North America. It is going to be in a geostationary orbit. Geostationary orbit: 36,000 kilometres above the equator, where the orbiting satellite will match the rotation of the Earth. It was launched by NASA in a Falcon 9 rocket. TEMPO will take important scientific observations, including that of ozone, nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide and formaldehyde levels. It is a payload on the satellite Intelsat 40E. Applications:- measuring levels of various pollutants Provide air quality forecasts helping the development of emission-control strategies Significance:- Using TEMPO data, scientists will be able to study rush hour pollution, the potential for improved air quality alerts, the impact of lightning on the ozone layer, the movement of pollution from forest fires and volcanoes and even the effects of fertiliser application. TEMPO will join South Korea’s Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer and the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-4 satellite to become an air quality monitoring satellite constellation that will track pollution across the Northern Hemisphere. It will be the first space-based instrument that is capable of measuring air quality over North America hourly during the daytime with a resolution of several square miles. The current limit is about 100 square miles or about 258 square kilometres. MUST READ: NavIC SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth? (2022) GPS and navigation systems could fail. Tsunamis could occur in equatorial regions. Power grids could be damaged. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, 4 and 5 only 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Q.2) Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘blackholes’ billions of light-years away from the earth. What is the significance of this observation? (2019) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected. ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected. Possibility of intergalactic space travel through a ‘wormhole’ was confirmed. It enabled the scientists to understand ‘singularity’. Radhuni or wild celery (Trachyspermum roxburghianum) Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Recent studies show that radhuni seeds can relax the gut and airways and improve digestion About Radhuni or wild celery (Trachyspermum roxburghianum):- Radhuni is a popular spice in Bengali cuisine used abundantly in West Bengal. Its scientific name is Trachyspermum roxburghianum. It is not a plant seed but rather dried fruits. It is called ajmod in Hindi, asamtavomam in Tamil and ayamodakam in Malayalam. It belongs to the family of cumin and fennel fruits, known as Distribution: South Asia, South East Asia, and Indonesia. In some nations, these are employed as herbal medicines. It is usually consumed as part of panch phoron, a blend of five tempering spices traditionally used in Eastern Indian cuisine. Health benefits of Radhuni masala:- This spice is supposed to aid in our bodies’ detoxification. Menstrual cramp reduction is another benefit. It is also traditionally used to treat coughs and colds, asthma, digestive issues, etc. It also aids in the management of inflammation and pain. Use of radhuni masala:- In Bengal, radhuni is a widely used It is employed to temper dal. The lentil dish masoor dal with radhuni phoron , Shukto in bengal is prepared using radhuni masala. MUST READ: New genus of parasitic flowering plant SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Among the following crops, which one is the most important anthropogenic source of both methane and nitrous oxide? (2022) Cotton Rice Sugarcane Wheat Q.2) With reference to “Gucchi” sometimes mentioned in the news, consider the following statements. (2022) It is a fungus. It grows in some Himalayan forest areas. It is commercially cultivated in the Himalayan foothills of north-eastern India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 3 only 1 and 2 2 and 3 Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO-India project Syllabus Prelims –Science and technology Context: Recently, the government has given the final go-ahead to India’s Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO, project. About Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO India, project:- IMAGE SOURCE: LIGO-India gets the green light | Astronomy.com LIGO is an international network of laboratories. It aims to detect the ripples in spacetime produced by the movement of large celestial objects. LIGO-India is a collaborative project between a consortium of Indian research institutions and the LIGO Laboratory in the USA, along with its international partners. It will be located in the Hingoli district of Maharashtra. It will begin scientific runs in It was built by the Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology with an MoU with the S. National Science Foundation Objective: To detect and study gravitational waves. LIGOs are designed to measure changes in distance that are several orders of magnitude smaller than the length of the proton. Significance: This project will see India join the global effort to detect and study gravitational waves, which were first theorized in Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity. Gravitational waves are extremely weak and difficult to detect. They were first directly detected by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in 2015. LIGO-India is set to become the country’s largest scientific facility after the government gave the final green light for its construction. LIGO-India is intrinsically a multidisciplinary mega-science project that requires expertise from a variety

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Exercise Cope India 23 Syllabus Prelims –Defense Context: Recently, the announcement for Exercise Cope India 23 between the Indian Air Force, and the United States Air Force was made. About Exercise Cope India 23:- Exercise Cope India 23, a bilateral air exercise between the Air Forces of India and the U.S. It will be held at Air Force Stations Arjan Singh (Panagarh), Kalaikunda, and Agra. Japan will act as an observer. The exercise aims to enhance mutual understanding between the two Air Forces and share their best practices. It will involve transporting aircraft and Special Forces assets from both the Air Forces. Both sides will field the C-130J and C-17 aircraft, with the USAF operating an MC-130J as well. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to field its frontline fighters SU-30MKI, Rafale and the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft along with force multipliers, while the U.S. Air Force is expected to bring in F-15 fighter jets. MUST READ: India-US relations SOURCE: ANI PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) What is/are the consequence /consequences of a country becoming a member of the ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’?(2018) It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies. It automatically becomes a member of “The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)”. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC)’, Consider the following statements: (2015) It was established very recently in response to incidents of piracy and accidents of oil spills It is an alliance meant for maritime security only Which of the following statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021-22 Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Union Minister of Power and New & Renewable Energy, released the report of the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021-22 recently. About State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021-22:- The State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021-22 is developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with Alliance for an Energy-Efficient Economy (AEEE). Alliance for an Energy-Efficient Economy (AEEE):- It was formed in 2008 as a not-for-profit society. It is one of the leading organisations in India that works on creating awareness about energy efficiency as a resource. Its vision and financial support provided by various proactive energy efficiency equipment and services companies- Conzerv Systems Pvt Ltd (CSPL – since acquired by Schneider-Electric India in 2009), Schneider Electric, Thermax Limited, Grundfos Pumps India and Development Enviroenergy Services Ltd, and other practitioners and energy service companies. USAID/ECO-III project partners, International Resources Group, with support from Alliance to Save Energy provided strategic guidance and support to develop and implement AEEE’s Vision and Mission. It supports policy implementation and is an energy efficiency market enabler with a not-for-profit motive.  It promotes data-driven and evidence-based energy efficiency policies and research. Reports: State Energy Efficiency Index 2020, Cold Chain Energy Efficiency in India, and Enabling cold chain infrastructure development in India. It consists of 50 indicators (common and programme-specific) spanning 7 sectors: buildings, industry, municipal services, transport, agriculture, DISCOMs, and cross-sector. It is a tool designed to track Energy Efficiency initiatives in the states and UTs. It is released by the Ministry of Power. There are four categories in the index i.e. Front Runner, Achiever, Contender and Aspirant. Front Runner category (>60 points) It has 5 states: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan and Telangana. Achiever Category (50-60 points): Assam, Haryana, Maharashtra, Punjab. MUST READ: Renewable Energy Transition SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) “R2 Code of Practices” constitute a tool available for promoting the adoption of (2021) Environmentally responsible practices in the electronics recycling industry Ecological management of ‘’Wetlands of International Importance” under the Ramsar Convention Sustainable practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded lands ‘’Environmental Impact Assessment’’ in the exploitation of natural resources Q.2) According to India’s National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels? (2020) Cassava Damaged wheat grains Groundnut seeds Horse gram Rotten potatoes Sugar beet Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, 5 and 6 only 1, 3, 4 and 6 only 2, 3, 4 and 5 only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 International Prize in Statistics 2023 Syllabus Prelims –Important Personalities Context: Recently, the Indian-American statistician Calyampudi Radhakrishna Rao has been awarded the 2023 International Prize in Statistics. About International Prize in Statistics 2023:- International Prize in Statistics 2023 was established in 2016. It is awarded to an individual or group once every two years. It is awarded for significant breakthroughs utilising statistics to improve science, technology, and human welfare. The prize is modelled after the Nobel Prize, Abel Prize, Fields Medal, and Turing Award.  It carries an $80,000 monetary award. The International Prize in Statistics and the COPSS Presidents’ Award are the two top honours in statistics. Calyampudi Radhakrishna Rao’s :- C. R. Rao, is an Indian-American mathematician and statistician.  He is currently professor emeritus at Pennsylvania State University and Research Professor at the University at Buffalo. Rao has been honoured by numerous colloquia, honorary degrees, and festschrifts and was awarded the US National Medal of Science in 2002. The American Statistical Association has described him as “a living legend whose work has influenced not just statistics, but has had far reaching implications for fields as varied as economics, genetics, anthropology, geology, national planning, demography, biometry, and medicine.” The Times of India listed Rao as one of the top 10 Indian scientists of all time. In 2023, Rao was awarded the International Prize in Statistics, an award often touted as the “statistics’ equivalent of the Nobel Prize”. Rao is also a Senior Policy and Statistics advisor for the Indian Heart Association non-profit focused on raising South Asian cardiovascular disease. In 1945, Professor Rao’s article, “Information and Accuracy Attainable in the Estimation of

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Einstein’s theory of gravity Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Recently, a new detailed map of dark matter has been found to be in agreement with Einstein’s theory of gravity. About Einstein’s theory of gravity:- Albert Einstein published his full theory of general relativity in 1915. As per this theory, no motion can exceed the speed of light. In general relativity (GR), concentrations of mass and energy curve the structure of spacetime, affecting the motion of anything passing near including light. Physicists made many exotic predictions using general relativity. Significance of the theory:- IMAGE SOURCE: Space – SciDump The theory explained the anomalous orbit of Mercury.  In 1919 when Arthur Eddington and his colleagues measured the influence of the Sun’s gravity on light from stars during a total solar eclipse. The bending of light around the Sun is small, but researchers realized the effect would be much larger for galaxies, to the point where gravity would form images of more distant objects. The phenomenon now called gravitational lensing.  The theory predicted the existence of black holes Black holes: objects with gravity so intense that nothing getting too close can escape again, not even light. General relativity showed that gravitation has a speed, which is the same as the speed of light. Catastrophic events like collisions between black holes or neutron stars produce gravitational waves. Researchers finally detected these waves in 2015 using the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Observatory (LIGO) Laser Interferometer Gravitational Observatory (LIGO): a sensitive laboratory that took decades to develop. MUST READ: Dark matter SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years? (2021) The distance among stellar bodies does not change The gravity of stellar bodies does not change Light always travels in a straight line The speed of light is always the same Q.2) Consider the following phenomena (2018) Light is affected by gravity. The Universe is constantly expanding. Matter warps its surrounding space-time. Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context:Recent studies have shown that Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) in Andhra Pradesh have yielded more produce than conventional methods. About Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF):- IMAGE SOURCE: Things to know about Zero Budget Natural Farming / (SPNF) – Agrikrit Zero budget natural farming is a method of chemical-free agriculture drawing from traditional Indian practices. It was originally promoted by agriculturist and Padma Shri recipient Subhash Palekar. He developed it in the mid-1990s as an alternative to the Green Revolution’s methods driven by chemical fertilizers, pesticides and intensive irrigation. Objective: to bring down the cost of production to nearly zero and return to a pre-green revolution style of farming. The four wheels of ZBNF are:- Jiwamrita        It is a mixture of fresh cow dung and aged cow urine, jaggery, pulse flour, water and soil. This is a fermented microbial culture that adds nutrients to the soil and acts as a catalytic agent to promote the activity of microorganisms and earthworms in the soil. About 200 litres of jivamrita should be sprayed twice a month per acre of land. After three years, the system is supposed to become self-sustaining. Bijamrita         It is a mix of desi cow dung and urine, water, bund soil and lime that is used as a seed treatment solution prior to sowing. Mulching         It is Covering the plants with a layer of dried straw or fallen leaves. It is meant to conserve soil moisture and keep the temperature around the roots at 25-32 degrees Celsius. It allows microorganisms to do their job. Waaphasa       It is providing water to maintain the required moisture-air balance. MUST READ: Natural farming SOURCE:DOWN TO EARTH PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: (2022) The Tea Board is a statutory body. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 3 2 and 4 3 and 4 1 and 4 Q.2) System of Rice Intensification” of cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields is practiced, results in: (2022) Reduced seed requirement Reduced methane production Reduced electricity consumption Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Doctrine of promissory estoppel Syllabus Prelims –Polity Context: Recently, Advocate Prashant Bhushan argued that instead of implementing the Agnipath scheme, the government should complete the old process and cited the doctrine of promissory estoppel. About Doctrine of promissory estoppel:- IMAGE SOURCE: PPT – CONSIDERATION PowerPoint Presentation, free download – ID:6208176 (slideserve.com) The Doctrine of Promissory Estoppel works on the principle of equity, fairness and moral conscience. The doctrine of Promissory Estoppel means when an individual with an intention of forming a relationship which is lawful makes a clear promise to another individual and the latter individual acts on it, that promise becomes an obligation for the individual who made the promise.  Hence, then going back from its words is not permissible.  The law commission recommended suggestions to form a new section as Section 25A in the Indian Contract Act in the 108th report for this doctrine. No provisions as such are there which ensures availability of relief under this doctrine.  At the same time, it can be implemented on the basis of equity, to defend the aggrieved party.  The doctrine of estoppel in India is a rule of evidence included into Section 115 of The Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Promissory Estoppel’s application can invalidate the constitutional provision provided under Article 299, which talks about immunity granted against the personal

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Uttaramerur inscription Syllabus Prelims – Art and Culture Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to the Uttaramerur inscription in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, while discussing India’s democratic history. About Uttaramerur inscription:- IMAGE SOURCE: What are the less known facts about Tamil Nadu? – Quora The Uttaramerur inscription, dated around 920 A.D. in the reign of Parantaka Chola [907-955 A.D.]. Uttaramerur: it is situated in the Kancheepuram district, about 90 km from Chennai. The Pallava king Nandivarman II established it around 750 A.D. The Uttaramerur inscription testifies to the historical fact that nearly 1,100 years ago, a village had an elaborate and highly refined electoral system and even a written constitution prescribing the mode of elections. The details of this system of elective village democracy are inscribed on the walls of the village assembly (grama sabha mandapa), a rectangular structure made of granite slabs. The inscription gives astonishing details about the constitution of wards, the qualification of candidates standing for elections, the disqualification norms, the mode of election, the constitution of committees with elected members, the functions of those committees, the power to remove the wrongdoer, etc. The villagers even had the right to recall the elected representatives if they failed in their duty. In fact, inscriptions on temple walls in several parts of Tamil Nadu refer to village assemblies. MUST READ: Sittanavasal Jain Heritage Site SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?(2022) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture. The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets. Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethics. Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational. Q.2) Who among the following rulers advised his subjects through this inscription? (2020) ”Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely.” Ashoka Samudragupta Harshavardhana Krishnadeva Raya A-HELP(Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme Syllabus Prelims –Governance Context: Recently, the Uttarakhand government launched ‘A-HELP’(Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme. About A-HELP (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme:- IMAGE SOURCE: 20th Livestock Census of India 2019 Highlights – Paper Tyari A-HELP Program is launched in the State of Uttarakhand. The ‘A-HELP’ training programme is being run jointly by the Union Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The program aims to address the healthcare needs of the livestock population in a village. In the programme, members of women self-help groups registered under the State Rural Livelihood Mission, who are helping in various animal husbandry activities in the form of Pashu Sakhi, will be trained. A-HELPs will help in artificial insemination under Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), and in preventing the livestock from infectious diseases. Significance:- A-HELP is community-based women activists, who assist veterinarians in local departmental activities, help livestock farmers to take loans for entrepreneurship development, fill out applications, mark the ear tagging of animals and register them in the INAF portal and help with insurance etc. ‘A-HELP’ assistance can be taken in the implementation of various schemes and in providing information to the farmers at the grassroots level. MUST READ: Improving Livestock Breeding SOURCE: PIB PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the Department of Science and Technology Ministry of Labour and Employment NITI Aayog Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Q.2) With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements: (2018) The National ‘Programme for Organic Production’ (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and ‘directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development. The Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Development Authority ‘(APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. Sikkim has become India’s first fully organic State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Exercise Orion Syllabus Prelims –Defense Context: Recently, four Rafales departed to France to take part in multilateral exercise Orion. About Exercise Orion:- It is a multinational exercise hosted by the French government. It is reportedly the largest ever multinational exercise being carried out by the French defence forces which have involved their Army, Navy and Air Force. It includes ground troops, warships, aircraft carriers and combat aircraft. It is meant to boost military cooperation and interoperability among participating nations. Participants: Besides the IAF and the FASF, Air Forces from Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, U.K. and U.S. would also be flying in this multilateral exercise. The IAF contingent will include four Rafale aircraft, two C-17, two IL-78 aircraft and 165 air warriors. This would be the first overseas exercise for the IAF’s Rafale aircraft. MUST READ:  India and France relations SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which of the following adopted a law on data protection and privacy for its citizens known as ‘General Data Protection Regulation’ in April 2016 and started implementation of its from 25th May, 2018? (2019) Australia Canada The European Union The United States of America Q.2) Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): (2017) Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Justice Ranganath Mishra Commission Syllabus Prelims –Polity Context: Recently, the Supreme Court stated that the government may need to “re-check” report of the Justice Ranganath Mishra Commission. About Justice Ranganath Mishra Commission:- IMAGE SOURCE: Protecting Interest of Minorities From The Glass of Constitutional Armour (ipleaders.in) Ranganath Misra Commission is also called National Commission for Religious and Linguistic Minorities. It was constituted by

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Jallianwala Bagh massacre Syllabus Prelims –Modern History Context: The Jallianwala Bagh massacre was commemorated recently. About the Jallianwala Bagh massacre:- IMAGE SOURCE: Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (jkdadlani.blogspot.com) The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on 13th April 1919. It accounted for the gruesome execution of hundreds of innocent people by the Gurkha British Indian army on the orders of the then Anglo-Indian Brigadier R.E.H. Dyer. These people were protesting peacefully against the Rowlatt Act 1919. Rowlatt Act 1919: this act was passed on the recommendations of the Sedition Committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlatt. It gave the government enormous powers to repress political activities and allowed the detention of political prisoners without trial for two years. Significance of the event:- The Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was one of the causes that led Mahatma Gandhi to begin organising his first large-scale and sustained nonviolent protest (satyagraha) campaign, the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22). The Bengali poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore renounced the knighthood that he had received in 1915. Mahatma Gandhi gave up the title of Kaiser-i-Hind, bestowed by the British for his work during the Boer War. MUST READ: Shaheed Udham Singh SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Consider the following freedom fighters: (2022) Barindra Kumar Ghosh Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee Rash Behari Bose Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party? 1 and 2 2 only 1 and 3 3 only Q.2) During the Indian Freedom Struggle, why did Rowlatt Act arouse popular indignation? (2009) It curtailed the freedom of religion It suppressed the Indian traditional education It authorized the government to imprison people without trial It curbed the trade union activities Kamchatka Peninsula Syllabus Prelims –Geography Context: Russia’s most active volcano ‘The Shiveluch volcano’ in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula erupted recently. About Kamchatka Peninsula:- IMAGE SOURCE: Location of the Kamchatka Peninsula showing the main volcanoes and… | Download Scientific Diagram (researchgate.net) The Kamchatka Peninsula is a 1,250-kilometre-long peninsula in the Russian Far East. The Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk make up the peninsula’s eastern and western coastlines, respectively. Immediately offshore along the Pacific coast of the peninsula runs the 10,500-metre-deep Kuril–Kamchatka Trench. The Kamchatka Peninsula, the Commander Islands, and Karaginsky Island constitute the Kamchatka Krai of the Russian Federation. The vast majority of the 322,079 inhabitants are ethnic Russians, although about 13,000 are Koryaks (2014). The Kamchatka peninsula contains the volcanoes of Kamchatka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest peak is the highest active volcano in Eurasia, Klyuchevskaya Sopka (4750 m). The higher parts of Kamchatka are glaciated with an area of about 900 km2 covered by 446 glaciers (Solomina et al., 2007). MUST READ: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and India – Russia Relations SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news? (2022) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around the South China Sea. China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in the East China Sea. A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities. Though the International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them. Q.2)Consider the following statements: (2018) The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano located in the Indian territory. Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar. The last time the Barren Island volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has remained inactive since then. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 and 3 3 only 1 and 3 Cumbum grapes Syllabus Prelims –Geography Context: Recently, Tamil Nadu’s Cumbum grapes get a Geographical Indication tag. About Cumbum grapes:- IMAGE SOURCE: Cumbum Valley farmers reap rich harvest with off-season grapes | Chennai News – Times of India (indiatimes.com) Cumbum Panneer Thratchai, also known as Cumbum grapes. It is a variety of grapes grown in the Cumbum Valley located at the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India. Cumbum Valley is the only place in the country where grapes are harvested around the year with three yield seasons. The unique feature is that these grapes are harvested all through the year as opposed to only during January and April in the rest of India. Economical Uses: The grapes grown are suitable for making wine, spirits, jams, canned grape juice and raisins. Since these grapes are produced in two seasons in a year, their yield and returns are exceptionally high. Grapes can be cultivated in a variety of soils including sandy loams, sandy clay loams, red sandy soils, shallow to medium black soils and red loams. Grapes generally require a hot and dry climate during their growth and fruiting periods. It is successfully grown in areas where the temperature range is from 15-40 C. MUST READ: GI tag for Narasinghapettai nagaswaram SOURCE: THE HINDU PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1) With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: (2022) The Tea Board is a statutory body. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru. The Board has overseas offices in Dubai and Moscow. Which of the statements given above is correct? 1 and 3 2 and 4 3 and 4 1 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2021) Moringa (drumstick tree) is a leguminous evergreen tree. Tamarind tree is endemic to South Asia. In India, most of the tamarind is collected as minor forest produce. India exports tamarind and seeds of moringa. Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in the production of biofuels. Which of the statements given above is correct? 1, 2, 4 and 5 3, 4 and 5 1, 3 and 4 1,2, 3 and 5 Teja Singh Sutantar Syllabus Prelims –Modern History Context: Recently, Punjab CM unveiled the statue of Teja Singh Sutantar. About Teja Singh