Author: Ramvilas

  • QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 9th 2026

    QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 9th 2026

    Related Articles

  • SIPRI Yearbook 2026 | Pride Month | Zojila Tunnel | Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyaan (PMSMA) | Preventive Detentions | Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana | Gallantry Awards | Tejas | Herbicide-Tolerant Mustard Hybrids

    SIPRI Yearbook 2026

    Science and Technology

    Context

    • According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Yearbook 2026, India is estimated to have modestly expanded its nuclear arsenal in 2025.

    Key Highlights for India

    • Nuclear Growth: India’s nuclear arsenal grew to 190 warheads (up from 180 in 2025). It leads Pakistan (170) but trails China (620).
    • Nuclear Posture: India now keeps a small number of warheads mated to missiles during peacetime patrols. This strengthens its sea-based nuclear triad.
    • Defence Spending: India ranks 5th globally in military spending, shelling out $92.1 billion in 2025.
    • Arms Imports: India remains the world’s 2nd largest arms importer, holding an 8.2% global share.

    Global Trends

    • Total Stockpile: Nine nuclear nations hold about 12,187 nuclear weapons.
    • Rising Risks: Countries are relying more on nuclear weapons, reversing years of risk reduction.
    • Record Spending: Global military spending hit a record high of $2.9 trillion.

    Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI)

    • It is an independent international institute dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control and disarmament.
    • It was established in 1966 in Stockholm (Sweden).

    Additional Information – Nuclear Disarmament

    • Disarmament refers to the act of eliminating or abolishing weapons (particularly offensive arms) either unilaterally or reciprocally.

    Nuclear Powers in the World

    • There are nine countries recognized as possessing nuclear weapons.
    • These are United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom, France, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel.

    Treaties Related to Nuclear Disarmament

    Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT):

    • Signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970.
    • It aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament.

    Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW):

    • Adopted by the United Nations in 2017 and opened for signature in 2018.
    • It aims to prohibit the development, testing, production, stockpiling, stationing, transfer, use, and threat of use of nuclear weapons.

    Comprehensive Nuclear – Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT)

    • Opened for signature in
    • It aims to ban all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes.
    • The treaty has been signed by 185 countries and ratified by 170, it has not entered into force as nuclear-armed states must ratify it to become operational.

    Outer Space Treaty

    • This multilateral agreement entered into force in 1967 and bans the siting of weapons of mass destruction in space.

    India’s Nuclear Weapon Program

    • Smiling Buddha: In 1974, India conducted its first nuclear test code-named “Smiling Buddha, and since then, it has developed a nuclear triad consisting of land-based, sea-based, and air based delivery systems.
    • Operation Shakti: In 1998, India conducted a series of nuclear tests at Pokhran, codenamed “Operation Shakti.”

    Pride Month

    Polity

    Context

    • June is observed globally as Pride Month to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and raise awareness about issues of equality, inclusion, and human rights.

    LGBTQ+ Community

    • LGBTQ+ is an umbrella term for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer persons, with ‘+’ representing other identities that are not specifically included in these letters.
    • Notably, LGBTQ+ persons do not conform with traditional gender roles and expectations, display sex characteristics that do not fit the typical male or female binary, and their gender identities that differ from the sex they were assigned at birth.
    • Pride Month – It commemorates the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and celebrates diversity and inclusion.

    India’s Position on LGBTQ+ Rights

    • As per census 2011, there were 4.87 lakhs persons in India who opted for “other” in gender category.
    • Transgender Rights: NALSA v. Union of India (2014) recognised the right to self-identify gender.
    • It recognises transgender as the “third gender” upholding their fundamental rights.
    • Decriminalisation: Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) decriminalised consensual homosexual acts (Section 377 partially struck down).
    • Constitutional Provisions: Article 14 Right to equality, Article 15 No discrimination on grounds of sex and Article 21 Right to life and personal liberty.
    • Legislation: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 provides legal recognition of transgender identity.

    Zojila Tunnel

    Geography

    Context

    • The Zojila Tunnel achieved its final breakthrough in June 2026, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts to establish all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh.

    Zojila Tunnel

    • The Zojila Tunnel is a 14-km-long single-tube, bi-directional road tunnel being constructed beneath the Zojila Pass in the Himalayas.
    • It is located at an altitude of approximately 11,578 feet and connects Baltal in Kashmir with Meenamarg in Ladakh.
    • The tunnel is designed as a two-lane horseshoe-shaped structure and is among the world’s longest road tunnels at such a high altitude.
    • The project is being executed by Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd.
    • The tunnel has been constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM).

    Strategic Importance

    • It will provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
    • It will reduce dependence on the snow-bound Zojila Pass, which remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
    • It will improve military logistics and troop mobility in areas close to the Line of Actual Control.

    Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyaan (PMSMA)

    Government Schemes

    Context

    • The 10th anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) was observed.

    Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)

    • Launched on – June 9, 2016,
    • Objective – It provides free, comprehensive antenatal care to pregnant women — particularly those in their second and third trimesters — at designated government health facilities on the 9th of every month.
    • Key Services: Under PMSMA, pregnant women receive:
    1. Clinical examinations and risk assessment;
    2. Blood and urine tests;
    3. Ultrasonography;
    4. Essential medicines and supplements;
    5. Counselling on nutrition, birth preparedness, and safe pregnancy practices.
    • The Doctor Volunteer System: The programme encourages voluntary participation of private-sector specialists, including obstetricians, gynaecologists, radiologists, and physicians, to provide antenatal care services on the 9th of every month.
    • In 2022, the government launched the Extended PMSMA (e-PMSMA) to strengthen tracking and follow-up of high-risk pregnancies.
    • Note – India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) declined from 130 per lakh live births (2014–16) to 87 per lakh live births (2022–24).

    Additional Information- Maternal Health Initiatives

    1. Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): Gives cash to poor women who choose to give birth in a hospital instead of at home.
    2. Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) – Makes hospital births 100% free. Covers medicine, food, tests, and free rides to and from the hospital.
    3. Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN) – It Promises dignified care with zero tolerance for being turned away by a hospital.
    4. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) – Gives direct cash (₹5,000 for the first child and ₹6,000 for a second girl child) to buy nutritious food.
    5. LaQshya: Upgrades the quality and safety of hospital delivery rooms.

    Preventive Detentions

    Polity

    Context

    • The Allahabad High Court recently raised concerns over the alleged misuse of preventive detention laws.

    Preventive Detention

    • Preventive detention refers to the detention of a person without trial in order to prevent them from committing an act that may threaten public order, national security, or other vital state interests.
    • Unlike punitive detention, which is imposed as punishment after conviction by a court of law, preventive detention is based on the apprehension that a person may engage in activities prejudicial to:
    1. Security of the State;
    2. Defence of India;
    3. Public order;
    4. Foreign affairs; or
    5. Maintenance of essential supplies and services.
    • The Constitution divides the legislative power to enact preventive detention laws between the Union and the States.

    Constitutional Provisions

    • Article 22(3) of the Constitution provides for preventive detention laws,
    • Article 22(4) contain the following safeguards against abuse of this power:
    • No law providing for preventive detention shall authorise the detention of a person for a longer period than three months. Detention beyond this 3-month period requires clearance from an Advisory Board.
    • The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 has reduced the period of detention without obtaining the opinion of an advisory board from three to two months.
    • However, this provision has not yet been brought into force, hence, the original period of three months still continues.

    Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

    Government Schemes

    Context

    • The Union Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has indicated that subsidised LPG cylinders for households under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) have been reduced from nine to four.

    Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

    • Launched in – May 2016
    • Implementation – Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
    • Objective -To give free LPG (gas) connections to poor women to replace dirty cooking fuels.
    • Key Benefits: The government pays ₹1,600 for the connection setup. In Ujjwala 2.0, the first refill and stove are free.
    • There is also a ₹300 subsidy per cylinder for up to 12 refills a year.
    • Eligibility: Only adult women from poor households (like SC/ST or low-income families) who do not already have a gas connection.
    • Scale: Over 10.3 crore connections have been given out so far.

    Gallantry Awards

    Defence

    Context

    • President conferred Gallantry Awards to the personnel of the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces, and State and Union Territory Police during the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

    Gallantry Awards

    • Honoured by – Government of India
    • It is given to honour acts of bravery, sacrifice, and exceptional courage by members of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and civilians.
    • They are classified as wartime (gallantry in the face of enemy) and peacetime awards.
    • Administered by: Ministry of Defence (for armed forces) and Ministry of Home Affairs (for police and civilians).
    • Awarded by: President of India.
    • These gallantry awards are announced twice in a year – first on the occasion of the Republic Day and then on the occasion of the Independence Day.
    • Wartime Gallantry Awards: Param Vir Chakra (PVC), Mahavir Chakra (MVC) and Vir Chakra.
    • Peacetime Gallantry Awards: Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra.

    Gallantry Awards

    • Order of Precedence: Param Vir Chakra (PVC), Ashoka Chakra (AC), Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), Kirti Chakra (KC), Vir Chakra (VrC), Shaurya Chakra (SC).
    • All six awards can be conferred posthumously.

    Tejas

    Syllabus: GS3/Defence

    Context

    • The Defence Minister reviewed the progress of major ongoing projects of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) where delays in the delivery of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A was also discussed.

    Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A

    • It is an advanced, 5-generation multirole fighter jet built in India.
    • Developed by- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
    • The aircraft is designed to be a multi-role aircraft capable of taking up offensive air support, close combat and ground attack roles at ease.
    • Advanced Radar: Uses an AESA Radar (including the indigenous Uttam radar) to track multiple targets at once.
    • Electronic Warfare: Equipped with a jamming suite to protect the jet from enemy missiles.
    • Smart Weapons: Can fire Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles like the Indian-made Astra.
    • Mid-Air Refueling: Features a probe to refuel in the sky, which helps it fly longer distances.
    • Engine: Powered by the American GE F404-IN20 turbofan engine.

    Herbicide-Tolerant Mustard Hybrids

    Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture

    Context

    • India is set to begin large-scale cultivation of imidazolinone-resistant (IMI-resistant) mustard hybrids during the 2026–27 rabi season.

    IMI-Resistant Mustard Hybrids

    • These are mustard hybrids resistant to imidazolinone (IMI) herbicides.
    • They have been developed through mutation breeding, not through genetic modification (GM).
    • Mutation breeding involves selecting and preserving naturally occurring genetic mutations that confer desirable traits.

    Connect with the basics – Gene Editing Technology

    • It refers to technology that permits the change of an organism’s DNA by allowing genetic material to be added, removed, or altered at particular locations in the genome.

    CRISPR Cas9 Technology

    • Acronym – Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats.
    • Significance – With the use of the gene editing technique CRISPR, researchers can modify the DNA of living things.
    • An enzyme called Cas9 functions as molecular scissors, guided by RNA molecules created to precisely match a certain DNA sequence.
    • GE (Genome Editing): Involves precise modification of specific genes within an organism’s genome without introducing foreign genes, resulting in targeted genetic changes.
    • GM (Genetically Modified): Involves the insertion of foreign genes from unrelated organisms into an organism’s genome to confer specific traits or characteristics.

    Regulatory Bodies

    • GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee): It is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).GEAC is responsible for evaluating and approving genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
    • Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB): Ensures safe handling of GMOs that may impact biodiversity under the Convention on Biological Diversity. Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur.

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  • MCQs on National & International

    MCQs on National & International

    1. Consider the following statements:

    1. Smiling Buddha was India’s first nuclear test conducted in 1974.
    2. Operation Shakti refers to the series of nuclear tests conducted in 1998.
    3. India’s nuclear triad consists of land-based, sea-based and air-based delivery systems.

               How many of the above statements are correct?

               A. Only one
               B. Only two
               C. All three
               D. None

    Answer: C

     

    2. Which one of the following judgments recognised the right to self-identify gender and recognised transgender persons as the “third gender”?

         A. Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India
         B. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala
         C. NALSA v. Union of India
         D. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India

    Answer: C

     

    3. Which Article of the Constitution specifically provides for preventive detention laws?

         A. Article 19(1)
         B. Article 21
         C. Article 22(3)
         D. Article 32

    Answer: C

     

    4. Which ministry is responsible for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana?

         A. Ministry of Rural Development
         B. Ministry of Women and Child Development
         C. Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
         D. Ministry of Consumer Affairs

    Answer: C

     

    5. Herbicide-Tolerant Mustard Hybrids recently in news are resistant to:

         A. Glyphosate herbicides
         B. Atrazine herbicides
         C. Imidazolinone (IMI) herbicides
         D. Paraquat herbicides

    Answer: C

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  • MPC Retains Repo Rate, Lowers Growth Forecast | Surha Tal: India’s 100th Ramsar Site | Isobutanol | Jan Samarth Portal

    MPC Retains Repo Rate, Lowers Growth Forecast

    Economy

    Context

    • The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted unanimously to keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 5.25%.

    Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)

    • Established under – The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) constituted by the Central Government under Section 45ZB of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934.
    • Meeting – The MPC is required to meet at least four times in a year.
    • Composition: The committee comprises six members.

    Out of the six members, three are internal -including the RBI governor who chairs the committee.

    • RBI’s deputy governor is the second internal member.
    • The third member is one RBI official who is nominated by the central board of RBI. Usually, it is the executive director in-charge of monetary policy.
    • The other three are external members who are appointed for four years.
    • Voting: Each member of the MPC has one vote, and in the event of an equality of votes, the Governor has a second or casting vote.
    • Significance of constituting the MPC: MPC was set up consequent to the agreement reached between Government and RBI to task RBI with the responsibility for price stability and inflation targeting.
      • The Reserve Bank of India and Government of India signed the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement.
    • Functions: The MPC determines the policy repo rate required to achieve the inflation target. It acts as a benchmark for all other interest rates in the economy.

    Monetary Policy Tools in India

    • Repo Rate: Rate at which RBI lends short-term funds to banks against collateral.
    • Reverse Repo Rate: Rate at which RBI absorbs liquidity from banks.
    • Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): Portion of deposits banks must keep with RBI in cash.
    • Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR): Portion of deposits kept in liquid assets (gold, cash, securities).
    • Open Market Operations (OMO): Buying/selling of government securities to control liquidity.
    • Marginal Standing Facility (MSF): Emergency borrowing by banks at a penal rate.
    • Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF): Framework for repo/reverse repo operations.
    • Market Stabilisation Scheme (MSS): Bonds issued to absorb excess liquidity.

    Surha Tal: India’s 100th Ramsar Site

    Environment

    Context

    • Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, has been designated as India’s 100th Ramsar Site.

    About

    • Established in 1991,
    • The sanctuary is centred around Surha Tal, a natural perennial oxbow lake formed by the shifting course of the Ganga River.
    • It is located in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, near the confluence of the Ganga and Ghaghara rivers.
    • It hosts several migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia, including the Greylag Goose, Pintail, Common Teal, and Bar-headed Goose.
    • Local species include Sarus crane, Heron, and Cormorant.

    Connect with the basics – Ramsar Convention

    • A Ramsar site is a wetland designated as one of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
    • Ramsar Convention – It is one of the inter-governmental accords to preserve the wetlands of international importance.
    • It was signed on February 2, 1971 in Ramsar, Iran and came into force in 1975.
    • India became a signatory to the Ramsar Convention in 1982.

    Ramsar Facts

    • Total: 100 sites (As of June 2026).
    • India has the most sites in Asia.
    • 100th Site: Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) in Uttar Pradesh (Added June 2026).
    • Top State: Tamil Nadu (20 sites), followed by Uttar Pradesh (13 sites).
    • First Sites: Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) in 1981.
    • Sizes: Sundarban (West Bengal) is the largest. Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) is the smallest.

    Montreux Record (Threatened Sites)

    • What it is: A register of Ramsar sites facing ecological danger from pollution or human interference.Active Indian Sites:
    • Only two sites—Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) and Loktak Lake (Manipur).
    • Removed- Chilika Lake was removed after successful recovery.

    Isobutanol

    Science & Technology

    Context

    • As India expands its biofuel strategy beyond ethanol, the government is evaluating the use of diesel blended with up to 15% isobutanol to reduce dependence on crude oil imports.

    Isobutanol

    • Chemical Profile: It is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild alcoholic odor. It is one of the four isomers of butanol.
    • Traditional Use: It has long served as an industrial solvent in paints, lacquer, coatings, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.
    • Production: It can be created from petrochemicals or by fermenting biomass like sugarcane syrup, molasses, and grains using engineered microbes.

    Why Isobutanol Over Ethanol for Diesel Blending

    • India successfully implemented a 20% ethanol blending mandate for petrol, but ethanol failed to mix properly with diesel.

    Feature

    Ethanol-Diesel Blend

    Isobutanol-Diesel Blend

    Miscibility (Mixing)

    Poor. Tends to separate into distinct layers.

    Excellent. Blends uniformly with diesel without special chemical additives.

    Water Absorption

    Highly hygroscopic. Absorbs water, causing engine corrosion.

    Low hygroscopicity. Does not absorb water easily, making it pipeline-safe.

    Energy Density

    Low energy density. Reduces vehicle mileage.

    High energy density. Closer to pure diesel, preserving fuel efficiency.

    Flash Point (Safety)

    Low flash point. Highly volatile and poses a high fire risk.

    Higher flash point. Much less volatile and safer to store or transport.

    Significance for India

    • Import Substitution: Blending up to 10% isobutanol into diesel can slash India’s high crude oil import bills.
    • Climate & Emission Targets: It burns cleaner, reducing harmful particulate emissions. This helps achieve India’s Net-Zero emission goal by 2070 and aligns with the National Policy on Biofuels.

    Jan Samarth Portal

    Government Schemes

    Context

    • The Jan Samarth Portal has completed four years of promoting digital financial inclusion and seamless credit delivery.

    Jan Samarth Portal

    • Launched in – 2022
    • Objective – It is a single-window digital platform for availing benefits under 16 credit-linked government schemes.
    • Significance – It facilitates access to institutional credit across sectors such as agriculture, business, housing, renewable energy, and livelihoods.
    • Available in 8 languages, the portal has onboarded 269 lending institutions, including banks, NBFCs, and cooperative banks.

    Additional information – Digital financial inclusion schemes

    Core Pillars: The JAM Trinity

    1. Jan Dhan: Zero-balance bank accounts for the unbanked.
    2. Aadhaar: Biometric digital ID for instant e-KYC verification.
    3. Mobile: Core tool to access mobile banking apps.

    Key Schemes

    • PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): World’s largest financial inclusion drive. Over 56 crore accounts. Offers free RuPay cards, ₹2 lakh accident cover, and ₹10,000 overdraft.
    • UPI: Real-time mobile payment network. Handles over 80% of India’s retail digital payments.
    • Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Sends government subsidies straight into Aadhaar-linked accounts. This stops corruption and cuts state waste.
    • Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS): Rural biometric banking via local agents (Bank Mitras). No smartphone required.
    • Jan Suraksha Schemes: Cheap, auto-debit security. Includes PMSBY (₹20/year accident cover), PMJJBY (₹436/year life cover), and Atal Pension Yojana (unorganised sector pension).
    • Unified Lending Interface (ULI): Nationwide platform that speeds up digital loans by instantly linking land and financial data.

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  • QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 8th 2026

    QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 8th 2026

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  • MCQs on National & International

    MCQs on National & International

    1. Consider the following statements regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC):

    1. The RBI Governor chairs the MPC.
    2. The RBI Deputy Governor is one of the internal members of the MPC.

               Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

               A. 1 only
               B. 2 only
               C. Both 1 and 2
               D. Neither 1 nor 2

    Answer: C

     

    2. Consider the following statements regarding Ramsar Sites in India:

    1. India has the highest number of Ramsar Sites in Asia.
    2. Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar Sites among Indian states.

               Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

               A. 1 only
               B. 2 only
               C. Both 1 and 2
               D. Neither 1 nor 2

    Answer: C

     

    3. Which one of the following best describes isobutanol?

           A. A solid hydrocarbon used primarily as a fuel additive
           B. A clear, colorless liquid with a mild alcoholic odor and one of the four isomers of butanol
           C. A gaseous biofuel produced exclusively from petroleum refining
           D. A synthetic chemical used only in pharmaceutical manufacturing

    Answer: B

     

    4. Consider the following statements:

    1. UPI handles more than 80% of India’s retail digital payments.
    2. Aadhaar Enabled Payment System requires a smartphone for every transaction.

               Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

               A. 1 only
               B. 2 only
               C. Both 1 and 2
               D. Neither 1 nor 2

    Answer: A

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  • Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) | PM E-DRIVE | Major Abhilasha Barak Conferred UN Award | Food Planet Prize 2026

    Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)

    Polity

    Context

    • The Prime Minister chaired a meeting of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) during which members discussed measures to sustain and accelerate India’s economic growth amid an uncertain global environment.

    Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)

    • The EAC-PM, an independent body constituted to advise the Prime Minister on economic and related issues.
    • It is currently chaired by S. Mahendra Dev.
    • Members: At present, there are a Chairman, 3 Full-Time Members and 11 Part-Time Members in the EAC-PM.
    • Functions: Analyzing any issue, economic or otherwise, referred to it by the Prime Minister and advising him thereon, addressing issues of macroeconomic importance.

    PM E-DRIVE

    Environment

    Context

    • The Delhi Government has announced the induction of 2,800 new low-floor electric buses under the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE)
    • Objective – to strengthen public transport and accelerate the transition towards sustainable urban mobility.

    PM E-DRIVE

    • The scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2024 to accelerate the transition towards electric mobility.
    • The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹10,900 crore.
    • Duration: Initially approved for two years (2024–26), its duration has now been extended to 31 March 2028, while retaining the same outlay.

    Objectives:

    • To accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the country.
    • To develop a robust EV charging infrastructure.
    • To strengthen the domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem.
    • To reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower vehicular emissions.
    • To promote the Make in India initiative through the Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP).
    • The scheme supports the procurement of 14,028 electric buses across nine major cities with populations exceeding 40 lakh.

    Major Abhilasha Barak Conferred UN Award

    International

    Context

    • Prime Minister congratulated Major Abhilasha Barak on being conferred the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.

    About

    • Major Barak is currently serving with the United Nations mission in Lebanon, has been honoured with the award for her outreach efforts with women and girls during her deployment in the West Asian nation.
    • She is also the first woman combat helicopter pilot of the Indian Army.
    • Nomination – Each year, the awardee is selected from among candidates nominated by force commanders and heads of mission from all peace operations.
    • India is among the largest troop and police contributing countries to UN peacekeeping missions.

    United Nations peacekeepers

    • The United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers, commonly known as the ‘Blue Helmets’
    • They are military, police, and civilian personnel deployed by the United Nation
    • Objective – to help countries transition from conflict to peace.
    • Duties – It includes protecting civilians, preventing conflict, strengthening security, and supporting peace processes.
    • Peacekeeping operations are authorized by the UN Security Council and supported by member states, with personnel drawn from many countries around the world.

    Food Planet Prize 2026

    Miscellaneous

    Context

    • The Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) programme has won the Food Planet Prize 2026.

    About the Prize

    • The Food Planet Prize was established in 2019 by the Curt Bergfors Foundation, Sweden.
    • It is regarded as the world’s largest environmental award dedicated to transforming global food systems.
    • The award carries a prize of US$ 1.5 million (about ₹14 crore).
    • Note – APCNF’s selection marks the first time an Indian initiative has won the award.

    Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF)

    • Launched in 2016
    • Launched by – Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS)
    • Mandate – the programme promotes natural farming by reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
    • Uniqueness – it covers over 8,000 villages and nearly 18 lakh farmer families, making it one of the world’s largest community-led agroecology initiatives.
    • The Andhra Pradesh model is now being studied and replicated in several Indian states, as well as countries like Sri Lanka and Zambia.

    Additional Information – Natural Farming

    • It is a chemical free farming, involving livestock (preferably local breed of cow) integrated natural farming methods and diversified crop systems rooted in the Indian traditional knowledge.
    • It is largely based on on-farm biomass recycling with major stress on biomass mulching, use of on-farm cow dung-urine formulations; maintaining soil aeration and exclusion of all synthetic chemical inputs.

    National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

    • Launched in – November 2024
    • It is a centrally sponsored Scheme
    • Objective – to promote chemical-free, ecosystem-based natural farming rooted in traditional knowledge.

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  • QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 6th 2026

    QUIZ on National & International Current Affairs – June 6th 2026

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  • Sports

    Sports

    1. Gurindervir Singh Breaks National 100m Record

    Why in News: Indian sprinter Gurindervir Singh established a new men’s 100m national athletic record during the Federation Cup 2026 finals in Ranchi.

    Key Highlights:

    • Record Time:- Clocked an official timing of 10.09 seconds, becoming the first Indian athlete to break into the 10.0-second range.
    • Venue Location:- Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, Ranchi, Jharkhand.
    • Podium Finishers:- Outpaced silver medalist Animesh Kujur, who finished the championship race with an official time of 10.20 seconds.

    Federation Cup 2026: Men’s 100m Progression

    Athlete

    Event Stage

    Official Time

    Gurindervir Singh

    Final

    10.09 Seconds

    Animesh Kujur

    Final

    10.20 Seconds

    Animesh Kujur

    Semifinal

    10.15 Seconds

    Gurindervir Singh

    Semifinal

    10.17 Seconds

    2. Centre Notifies National Sports Governance Framework

    Why in News: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports activated regulatory provisions establishing the National Sports Board and National Sports Tribunal under federal legislation.

    Key Highlights:

    • Apex Board:- Created to grant official recognition to national athletic federations and strictly enforce mandatory administrative, ethical, and financial compliance.
    • Board Composition:- Comprises a Chairperson and two select members serving a maximum three-year term or up to 65 years of age.
    • Dispute Tribunal:- Formed as an independent judicial body tasked with fast-tracking domestic sports-related electoral and administrative legal disputes.
    • Strict Restrictions:- Appointed regulatory officers are legally barred from holding concurrent executive positions in any active sports federations.

    3. Esha Singh Breaks Pistol World Record in Munich

    Why in News: Indian shooter Esha Singh claimed the gold medal while establishing a new global scoring benchmark at the ISSF World Cup 2026.

    Key Highlights:

    • Record Score:- Registered a total of 43 points in the final, achieving perfect target marks across her initial three series.
    • Event & Venue:- Women’s 25m pistol event, organized in Munich, Germany.
    • Runner-up:- Outpaced former world champion Doreen Vennekamp by a five-point margin, while Olympic champion Yang Jinn finished fifth.

    ISSF World Cup 2026: Women’s 25m Pistol Finals

    Athlete & Country

    Final Score

    Medal / Placement

    Esha Singh (India)

    43 Points (WR)

    Gold

    Doreen Vennekamp (Germany)

    38 Points

    Silver

    Yang Jinn (South Korea)

    —

    5th Place

    4. Satwik-Chirag Clinch Singapore Open Doubles Title

    Why in News: The Indian duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the men’s doubles title at the Singapore Open 2026 badminton tournament.

    Key Highlights:

    • National First:- Marked the first time an Indian doubles combination won this tournament title in the history of the competition.
    • Final Opponents:- Defeated the Indonesian pairing of Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri in a 73-minute final match.
    • BWF Title Tally:- Secured their ninth career BWF World Tour crown, successfully concluding a two-year structural title drought.

    5. Inaugural World Yogasana Championship Begins in Ahmedabad

    Why in News: The first-ever competitive World Yogasana Championship 2026 commenced following a virtual inauguration addressing international athletic delegations.

    Key Highlights:

    • Host Venue:- Held at the EKA Arena located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, starting from June 4, 2026.
    • Strategic Objective:- Aimed at establishing standardized technical rules to support the future entry of Yogasana into the Olympic Games.
    • Calendar Alignment:- Scheduled to directly precede International Yoga Day on June 21
    • Theme:- “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”.

    6. Praggnanandhaa Wins Norway Chess Tournament Title

    Why in News: Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa secured the Norway Chess 2026 tournament championship, becoming the first Indian chess player to win the event.

    Key Highlights:

    • Final Score:- Completed the tournament with an absolute final tally of 18 points across the classical formats.
    • Decisive Match:- Defeated Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round to seal a late-stage streak of four consecutive wins.
    • Key Victory:- Secured two classical format victories over former world champion and multi-time tournament winner Magnus Carlsen.

    7. Zverev and Andreeva Claim French Open Titles

    Why in News: Alexander Zverev and teenage player Mirra Andreeva captured their career-first Grand Slam singles titles at the French Open 2026.

    Key Highlights:

    • Men’s Singles:- Germany’s Alexander Zverev defeated Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in a five-set final to secure his first major trophy.
    • Women’s Singles:- Russian player Mirra Andreeva, aged 19, defeated Poland’s Maja Chwalińska in straight sets to win the Suzanne-Lenglen Cup.
    • Doubles Defenses:- Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos retained the men’s title; Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori defended the mixed doubles crown.

    French Open 2026: Official Championship Results

    Category

    Winner(s)

    Runner(s)-Up

    Men’s Singles

    Alexander Zverev (Germany)

    Flavio Cobolli (Italy)

    Women’s Singles

    Mirra Andreeva (Russia)

    Maja Chwalińska (Poland)

    Men’s Doubles

    M. Granollers / H. Zeballos

    Henry Patten / Harri Heliovaara

    Women’s Doubles

    K. Siniakova / T. Townsend

    Anna Danilina / Aleksandra Krunic

    Mixed Doubles

    Sara Errani / Andrea Vavassori

    Gabrirowski / Evan King

    8. India Secures Sixth SAFF Women’s Football Championship

    Why in News: The Indian national women’s football team won the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 title by defeating Bangladesh in the final match.

    Key Highlights:

    • Score & Venue:- Registered a 3-1 victory at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium located in Margao, Goa.
    • Campaign Record:- Remained completely undefeated across four matches, scoring 18 goals and conceding only one goal.

    9. India Wins Junior Men’s Hockey Asia Cup

    Why in News: The Indian junior men’s hockey team won the continental title at the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2026.

    Key Highlights:

    • Final Margin:- Defeated the host nation Japan with a score of 4-1 in the final gold medal fixture.
    • Match Venue:- Kakamigahara, Japan.
    • Final Standings:- Pakistan secured the bronze medal to complete the top three Asian junior hockey rankings.

    10. India Tops World Yogasana Championship Medal Tally

    Why in News: The Indian sports delegation secured first place in the final standings of the inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026.

    Key Highlights:

    • Medal Aggregate:- Secured a record haul of 114 total medals, consisting of 102 Gold, 9 Silver, and 3 Bronze.
    • Event Statistics:- Gathered 522 global competitors representing 79 participating nations at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad.
    • Competitors:- Japan finished second on the gold leaderboard, while Nepal claimed the second-highest total medal volume with 52 medals.

    World Yogasana Championship 2026: Top 5 Standings

    Rank

    Nation

    Gold

    Silver

    Bronze

    Total

    1

    India

    102

    9

    3

    114

    2

    Japan

    3

    3

    5

    11

    3

    Argentina

    2

    3

    0

    5

    4

    Singapore

    2

    2

    3

    7

    5

    Nepal

    1

    36

    15

    52

    11. Smriti Mandhana: TIME100 Sports (2026)

    Why in News: Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana was named the sole Indian on the TIME100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026 list for her record-breaking international batting consistency and franchise leadership.

    Key Highlights:

    • Global Distinction: The only Indian on the 2026 list (featured alongside icons like Lionel Messi and LeBron James).
    • Batting Records: First Indian woman with centuries across all three formats; holds the joint global record for most women’s international hundreds (17).
    • Run Milestones: India’s all-time highest T20I run-scorer; first woman to cross 1,000 ODI runs in a calendar year.
    • Trophy Cabinet: Captained RCB to two WPL titles (2024, 2026) and vice-captained India’s 2025 World Cup victory.

    12. Deepti Sharma: Joint-Highest Wicket-Taker (2026)

    Why in News: Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma claimed her 355th international wicket during the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, equaling Jhulan Goswami to become the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket history.

    Key Highlights

    • The Milestone Match: Achieved against the Netherlands in Leeds by dismissing opener Phebe Molkenboer.
    • Triple Tie at the Top: Shares the all-time global summit with compatriot Jhulan Goswami and England’s Katherine Sciver-Brunt (all locked at 355 wickets).
    • Indian Dominance: Two of the top three all-time leading international wicket-takers globally are now Indian nationals.

    All-Time Leading Wicket-Takers (Women’s International Cricket)

    Rank

    Player

    Country

    Total Wickets

    =1

    Deepti Sharma

    India

    355

    =1

    Jhulan Goswami

    India

    355

    =1

    Katherine Sciver-Brunt

    England

    355

    13. Indian Athletics Awards 2025

    Why in News: Neeraj Chopra and Parul Chaudhary secured the top honors at the inaugural Athletics Federation of India (AFI) awards in New Delhi.

    Key Highlights

    • The 90m Mark: Neeraj Chopra won for his national-record 90.23m throw at the Doha Diamond League.
    • Asian Dominance: Parul Chaudhary won for securing two gold medals (3000m steeplechase and 5000m) at the Asian Championships.

    Major Winners

    Category

    Winner

    Field / Domain

    Best Male Athlete

    Neeraj Chopra

    Javelin Throw

    Best Female Athlete

    Parul Chaudhary

    Steeplechase & 5000m

    Lifetime Achievement

    PT Usha

    Sprinting / Administration

    Best State Promoter

    Odisha Govt.

    Infrastructure Promotion

    Best State Association

    Tamil Nadu

    Athletics Governance

    14. Harmanpreet Kaur: 200 T20Is

    Why in News: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur became the first cricketer in history (male or female) to play 200 T20 Internationals during the 2026 World Cup clash against South Africa.

    Key Highlights

    • The Milestone Venue: Achieved at Old Trafford, Manchester, where she was presented with a commemorative ‘200’ cap and jersey.
    • Far Ahead of Peers: Sits comfortably above the second-highest women’s capper (Suzie Bates at 184 matches) and the leading men’s capper (Paul Stirling at 163 matches).
    • Decade-Plus Longevity: One of only seven players globally to participate in every edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup since its inception in 2009.

    15. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Smashes Fastest List A Fifty in History

    Why in News: Fifteen-year-old Indian batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi shattered the world record for the fastest half-century in List A cricket history, reaching the milestone in just 11 balls during the Tri-Nation Series final between India A and Sri Lanka A in Dambulla.

    Key Highlights

    • The Record Knock: Opening the batting, Sooryavanshi blazed an explosive 94 off 29 deliveries (striking at 324.13), hammering 10 fours and 8 sixes. His 11-ball fifty officially broke the previous 21-year-old world record of a 12-ball fifty set by Sri Lanka’s Kaushalya Weeraratne in 2005.

    • Near-Century: He fell just 6 runs short of a century in the ninth over, narrowly missing out on tying the fastest List A century record, which is currently held by Australia’s Jake Fraser-McGurk (29 balls).

    • Match Impact: His destructive opening assault powered India A to a massive total of 377/9, ultimately securing a 66-run victory over Sri Lanka A to clinch the series title.

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  • MCQs on National & International

    MCQs on National & International

    1. Which one of the following best describes the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)?

         A. A constitutional body advising Parliament on economic legislation
         B. An independent body constituted to advise the Prime Minister on economic and related issues
         C. A statutory body advising the Finance Commission on fiscal matters
         D. A regulatory authority monitoring macroeconomic indicators

    Answer: B

     

    2. With reference to PM E-DRIVE, which one of the following is the primary objective of the scheme?

         A. To promote hydrogen-based mobility across rural India
         B. To strengthen public transport and accelerate sustainable urban mobility through electric mobility adoption
         C. To provide subsidies exclusively for electric two-wheelers
         D. To establish metro rail networks in major cities

    Answer: B

     

    3. Recently Major Abhilasha Barak was conferred which one of the following awards?

           A. UN Woman Peacekeeper Award
           B. UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award
           C. UN Peace Ambassador Award
           D. UN Civilian Protection Award

    Answer: B

     

    4. Consider the following statements:

    1. The National Mission on Natural Farming was launched in November 2024.
    2. It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
    3. Its objective is to promote chemical-free, ecosystem-based natural farming rooted in traditional knowledge.

               How many of the above statements are correct?

               A. Only one
               B. Only two
               C. All three
               D. None

    Answer: C

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