Blog

Global Risk Report 2026 Released

Economy

In News

• The World Economic Forum (WEF) released the 21st edition of the Global Risks Report (2026), warning that geoeconomic confrontations pose the biggest risk to major powers.

Global Risks for 2026

• Geoeconomic Confrontation: Rated as the top risk for 2026. This includes the “weaponization” of trade, finance, and technology through sanctions and tariffs (such as the US tariffs imposed by the US, banning critical minerals by China etc).
• State-Based Armed Conflict: This is the second highest risk, fueled by ongoing wars like the conflict in Ukraine and recent volatility in regions like Venezuela and the Middle East.
• Extreme Weather: While environmental risks remain the top priority for the next decade, they have slipped to third place (8%) in the immediate two-year outlook due to the urgency of economic and military conflicts.
• Societal Risks: Polarization, misinformation, and AI-generated deepfakes are cited as major threats to social stability, especially during election cycles.

Biggest Risks to India

• Cybersecurity: This is ranked as the top risk for India and India is going more towards digital payments.
• Wealth Inequality and Social Safety Nets: Lack of robust social welfare schemes combined with rising income inequality poses a significant threat to internal stability.
• Economic External Shocks: India is susceptible to domestic slowdowns caused by global supply chain disruptions and international tariffs.
• Critical Infrastructure & Resource Security: The report highlights “water security” as a potential flashpoint, specifically noting that the Indus River Basin remains a point of contention between India and Pakistan, especially following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

Employment and Social Trends 2026 Report: ILO

Economy

Context

• Recently, the International Labour Organization (ILO) released its latest World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO) Report highlighting persistent inequalities in the global labor market.

Key Findings of Report

• Global Unemployment: The global unemployment rate is projected to remain at 9% in 2026, equivalent to 186 million people.
• However, progress toward decent work has stagnated, with millions still lacking access to quality, secure employment.
• Persistent Poverty Despite Economic Growth: Nearly 300 million workers live in extreme poverty, earning less than US$3 per day.
• Youth Employment Crisis Deepens: Youth unemployment rose to4% in 2025.
• Persistent Gender Gaps: Women make up only two-fifths (40%) of global employment.

International Labour Organisation (ILO)

• It is a specialised agency of the United Nations.
• It was established in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles as an affiliated agency of the League of Nations, and became the first affiliated specialised agency of the United Nations in 1946.
• Headquarter: Geneva, Switzerland.
• India is a founder member of the ILO.
• Aim: To promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.

Flagship Reports of ILO:

1. Global Wage Report;
2. World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO);
3. World Social Protection Report;
4. World of Work Report

Delhi to Earn Revenue from ‘Carbon Credits’

Geography & Environment

Context

• Delhi government has announced that it has approved a framework for carbon credit monetisation.
• Delhi government activities such as operating electric buses, plantation drives, promoting solar energy and waste management, will be used to generate carbon credits under the new policy.
• The reduction in emissions through these initiatives will be scientifically measured, registered as carbon credits, and sold in national and international carbon markets to generate revenue.

Carbon Markets

• Carbon markets are trading systems in which carbon credits are sold and bought.
• Companies or individuals can use carbon markets to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon credits from entities that remove or reduce greenhouse gas emissio

Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)

• The CCTS aims to incentivize and support entities in their efforts to decarbonize the Indian economy.
• CCTS laid the foundation for the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) by establishing the institutional framework.

Government Steps to Strengthen Carbon Market Readiness

• As highlighted during the COP 27, India balances its developmental needs with lower carbon emissions through Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC)
• Mission LiFE and the Green Credit Program to promote a sustainable lifestyle.
• Creation of the National Steering Committee for the Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM) and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power.

Kashi-Tamil Sangamam

Culture

Context

• PM Modi hailed the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam in strengthening cultural understanding, fostering academic and people-to-people exchanges and creating lasting bonds.

Kashi-Tamil Sangamam 4.0

• Organized by: Ministry of Education.
• Launched in: 2022.
• Universities: IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
• Aim: To rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.
• It is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating the Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge.
• Significance – It provides an opportunity for scholars, students, philosophers, and artists from the two regions to share their knowledge.
• It also aims to make the youth aware and experience cultural oneness.
• Note – Both Kashi and Chennai have been recognised by UNESCO as ‘Creative Cities of Music’.

Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024

Economy

Context

• NITI Aayog released the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024.

Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024

• Objective – It is a comprehensive assessment of export readiness across India’s states and union territories.
• Significance – It provides an evidence-based framework to evaluate the strength, resilience, and inclusiveness of sub-national export ecosystems.

Export preparedness index (epi) 2024

• Top Performers: In 2024, Maharashtra, along with Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, are leading performers among large states.
• Category of small states, northeastern states and union territories – Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Goa are listed as leading performers.

Jathiya Devi

Economy

In News

• Recently, Jathiya Devi has been identified for an ambitious urban development project to be executed by the Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA).

Jathiya Devi

• It is Located about 14 km from Shimla city
• It derives its name from the existence of an old Jathiya Devi shrine in the area.
• The project is envisioned as a planned satellite mountain township to ease pressure on Shimla.
• It creates new economic hubs, and promotes sustainable, disaster-resilient urban growth.
• Concerns: The Social Impact Assessment (SIA) acknowledges possible displacement and loss of assets such as temples, schools, shops, canals, and homes

Kuki-Zo Council and Demand for Union Territory

Polity and Governance

Context

• The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the apex civil body representing the Kuki-Zo people, has reiterated its demand for the creation of a Union Territory for Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur.

Background

• An ethnic conflict erupted in May 2023 between:
• The Meitei community, which predominantly inhabits the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo community, which largely resides in the surrounding hill areas.
• The conflict was triggered by the Meitei demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which was opposed by the Kuki-Zo groups due to concerns over land rights and political representation.
• The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) was formed in October 2024, following nearly 18 months of violence (2023–2025), during which the Kuki-Zo community alleged bias.

Kuki-Zo Groups

• The Kuki-Zo people are an ethnic community spread across Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Assam, and Myanmar.
• They share close ethnic and cultural ties with other Chin–Mizo groups of Myanmar and Mizoram.
• Since the 1980s–90s, several Kuki-Zo insurgent groups have emerged, primarily demanding:

1. Greater autonomy and self-determination,
2. Protection of tribal land and rights, and
3. In some cases, separate statehood.

Kurinji Rajkumar

Geography & Environment

In News

• Rajkumar, a former bank employee and environmentalist known as “Kurinji Rajkumar,” passed away in Thiruvananthapuram.

Neelakurinji

• It is a purplish flowering shrub, which blooms once in 12 years in the hills of the Western Ghats and Himalayan hills.
• It is said that Nilgiris gets its name due to the magical blue hue imparted by these stunning flowers.
• It is an endemic shrub species seen only in the natural high-altitude montane grasslands of southwest India, with an altitude ranging from 1,340 to 2,600 m.
• It is predominately found in the valley of Western Ghats and Nilgiri Hills of South India (Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu)
• It has most recently been assessed for The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species in 2024 and listed as Vulnerable emphasising the need for its conservation.”

Major Contributions  of “Kurinji Rajkumar,”

• He was the driving force behind the Save Kurinji Campaign, which played a key role in raising awareness about the conservation of the Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) and its fragile grassland ecosystem.
• His commitment began after witnessing the mass flowering in 1982, leading to treks and awareness efforts that evolved into a major environmental movement.
• He later focused on campaigns in the Munnar region, culminating in the establishment of the 32-sq km Neelakurinji Sanctuary in 2006, fulfilling his lifelong dream.

Centre Notifies National Sports Governance Rules, 2026

Polity and Governance

In News

• The Union Government has notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026, under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.

Objectives of the Rules

• To professionalise and standardise the functioning of National Sports Bodies (NSBs).
• To ensure meaningful participation of athletes in sports administration.

About the Rules

• Inclusion of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOMs): Minimum 4 SOMs must be included in the General Body of every National Sports Body.
• Gender representation mandate is 50% of the SOMs must be women sportspersons.
• SOM Eligibility Tiers: In the Tiered criteria, 10 Tiers have been prescribed, starting from sportspersons who have won a gold, silver or bronze medal in the Summer Olympic Games, Paralympic Games or Winter Olympic Games, to sportspersons who have won a gold, silver or bronze medal in the National Games or a National Championship.
• Disqualification Criteria: Convicted individuals facing imprisonment are barred from General Body membership, Executive Committee elections, or Athletes Committees.
• Governance Framework: The National Sports Board oversees recognition, affiliate registration, and inquiries into governance or fund misuse.
• Election Framework: The National Sports Election Panel shall maintain a minimum strength of 20 members at all times to oversee the conduct of elections for National Sports Bodies.

EU Countries Approved the Mercosur Agreement

International

In News

• The European Union has approved a long-delayed trade deal with the South American Mercosur bloc, despite strong opposition led by France and concerns from farmers across Europe.

Basics – Mercosur

• Mercosur is a South American trade bloc formed in 1991,
• Member countries – Brazil,Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with Bolivia as the newest full member,
• Mandate – It aims for free trade and economic integration.
• Note – Venezuela, once a member, has been suspended indefinitely.

EU–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement

• It is the EU’s largest ever in terms of tariff reductions, eliminating over €4 billion in duties on EU exports.
• Trade between the two blocs stands at €111 billion, with the EU exporting machinery, chemicals and transport equipment, and importing mainly agricultural products and minerals.
• Under the deal, Mercosur will remove duties on 91% of EU exports over 15 years, while the EU will eliminate duties on 92% of Mercosur exports within 10 years.
• Both sides retain quotas on sensitive agricultural goods, though the EU will increase beef import quotas and Mercosur will allow duty-free cheese imports.

DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests Third-Generation MPATGM

Security

Context

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully flight-tested the third-generation Fire & Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile, or MPATGM, with top attack capability against a moving target.

Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile

• The fire-and-forget missile was developed indigenously by DRDO.
• ‘Fire and forget’ type of missile – It refers to a weapon system that locks onto a target before launch and does not require further guidance from the operator after firing.
• It is equipped with state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, including an Imaging Infrared homing seeker, tandem warhead, all-electric control actuation system, fire control system, propulsion system and a high-performance sighting system.
• The missile is capable of day and night combat operations and can effectively defeat modern main battle tanks.
• It can be launched from a tripod as well as a military vehicle launcher.

38th India-France Strategic Dialogue

International

Context

• India and France reaffirmed their strategic partnership during the 38th India-France Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by National Security Adviser and Diplomatic Adviser to the French President.

India-France Relations

• India–France Strategic Partnership: It was launched on 26 January 1998 and is India’s first-ever Strategic Partnership.
• Rafale Fighter Jets: India procured 36 Rafales from Dassault Aviation.
• Scorpene Submarines (Project P-75): Collaboration with France’s Naval Group, 6 submarines built in India; latest is INS Vaghsheer.
• Recently both nations formally concluded an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to procure 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy.
• Joint Exercises: Shakti, Varuna, FRINJEX-23.
• Economic Cooperation: Within the European Union, France remains India’s fifth-largest trading partner, following the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Germany.
• The process of enabling Unified Payment Interface (UPI) has been successful in France.
• Joint missions: TRISHNA (satellite mission), MDA systems, ground station support.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): Co-founded by India and France in 2015 to promote solar energy worldwide.

Valley of Flowers

Geography & Environment

Context

• A fire has been raging near the Valley of Flowers forcing the Forest Department to seek the help of the Air Force.

Valley of Flowers

• Location- It is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand inside the Valley of Flowers National Park, which is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
• It is called the Valley of Flowers because the entire valley comes alive with thousands of blooming flowers during the monsoon.
• It was declared a National Park in 1982. In 2005, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unmatched beauty and unique alpine ecosystem.
• The valley was officially discovered by British mountaineer Frank Smythe in 1931 when he accidentally reached the location.

NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025

Government Schemes

In News

• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has issued guidelines for the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025, expanding the National Pension System (NPS) framework to enable early-life pension inclusion for minors.

NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025

• It is a pension savings scheme for minors under the National Pension System.
• It allows a parent or legal guardian to open and operate an NPS account on behalf of a child.

Key Features

• Eligibility: Indian citizens below 18 years of age.
• Account Type: Individual pension account in the name of the minor.
• Operation: Managed by parent/guardian until the child attains majority.
• Conversion: On turning 18, the account is converted into a regular NPS account.
• Minimum Contribution: Minimum initial and annual contribution of ₹250 and no maximum limit on contributions.
• Investment: Funds invested through Pension Fund Managers (PFMs) as per NPS guidelines.
• Source: PIB

Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters

International

In News

• Senior Indian diplomat DB Venkatesh Varma has been nominated by the UN Secretary General to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters for the 2026–27 term, marking the first time an Indian will hold the position.

Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters

• It was established in 1978.
• Composition – The Board comprises fifteen members, with the Director of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research serving as an ex officio member.
• Functions : It advises the Secretary-General on issues related to arms limitation and disarmament

NIRANTAR Platform

Economy

In News

• The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change chaired a meeting of the National Institute for Research & Application of Natural Resources to Transform, Adapt and Build Resilience (NIRANTAR).

NIRANTAR

• Established under – It is a platform of institutions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) aimed at improving coordination and collaboration.
• Objective – Its four verticals focus on research, assessment, and utilisation of resources, particularly bioresources, to ensure their sustainable use for development.
• Significance – The NIRANTAR platform can play a key role in ensuring bioresources sustainable use for development.

Quick Commerce Platforms to stop 10-minute Service

Economy

Context

• Indian quick commerce firms Swiggy and ‍Zepto have changed the branding of their quick commerce operations to stop promoting it as ‌a “10-minute” service following a government order.
• The move is aimed at ensuring greater safety, security and improved working conditions for gig workers.

Gig Workers

• According to Code on Social Security, 2020, a gig worker is a person who performs work or participates in work arrangements and earns from such activities, outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship.
• According to Niti Aayog, 7 million workers are engaged in the gig economy (2020–21), which is expected to expand to 2.35 crore by 2029–30.

Initiatives for Gig workers in India

• Code on social Security 2020: Envisages various benefits to gig workers e.g. life and disability cover, accident insurance etc.
• E-Shram Portal: Establishes a National Database of Unorganized Workers (NDUW) and aims to enhance employability and provide them with social security scheme benefits.
• Karnataka Platform Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2024: Establish a gig workers welfare board, call for a welfare fee etc

Pufferfish Poisoning

Geography & Environment

News

• Scientists have confirmed India’s first case of pufferfish poisoning, drawing attention to a largely unrecognised riverine health risk.

Pufferfish

• It belongs to the order Tetraodontiformes
• Locally known as – Toadfish, patkafish, balloonfish and fugu.
• Global catalogues list approximately 190–193 valid species.
• It is omnivorous and benthic in habitat and Freshwater pufferfish species reported from India are often endemic to specific geographical areas and serve as indicators of healthy river ecosystems.

Status in India

• Indian waters currently support eight genera and 32 species of pufferfish.
• Their distribution is specific to certain regions and river systems, primarily the Western Ghats and major basins such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra and Mahanadi.
• IUCN Red List status :  The dwarf pufferfish is classified as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List

Ministry of Rural Development Launches National Campaign on Entrepreneurship

Polity and Governance

In News

• A National Campaign on Entrepreneurship was launched to strengthen non-farm livelihoods for rural women under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• The campaign aims to train 50,000 Community Resource Persons (CRPs) on enterprise promotion and impart Entrepreneurship.

Government Steps To Foster Rural Entrepreneurship

• Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Implemented by KVIC, it provides subsidies up to 35% on project costs (higher in rural areas) for new micro-enterprises in manufacturing and services, targeting unemployed youth and artisans with loans up to Rs. 25 lakh.
• ASPIRE Scheme: Launched by MSME, it funds Livelihood Business Incubators (LBIs) in rural areas with up to Rs. 1 crore for infrastructure, skill programs, and innovation support to nurture agro-rural startups.
• Lakhpati Didi Initiative: “Lakhpati Didi” designates SHG women achieving ₹1 lakh+ annual household income (₹10,000+ monthly) over four seasons/cycles via farm/non-farm activities.

Additional Information – DAY-NRLM

• Launch: 2011 (restructured from Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY)).
• NRLM was renamed as DAY-NRLM in 2016.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
• Funding Pattern: Centrally Sponsored Scheme (60:40; 90:10 for NE & Himalayan states)
• Objective: Reduce poverty by enabling poor rural households to access sustainable livelihoods and enhanced incomes.

Core Strategy:

• Universal mobilisation of rural poor women into Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
• Capacity building, access to credit, and livelihood diversification

Key Focus Areas:

• Farm livelihoods
• Non-farm livelihoods and enterprises
• Financial inclusion and social empowerment

India Germany Sign Pact to Shore Up Defence Industrial Cooperation

International

Context

• India and Germany signed agreements spanning sectors such as defence, technology, health, energy and human resources.

India and Germany Bilateral Ties

• Establishment of Ties: India and Germany entered into diplomatic relationship in 1951. 2026 marks the 75 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
• Strategic Partnership: Since 2000, India and Germany have had a ‘Strategic Partnership’ and 2025 marks the 25 years of Strategic Partnership.
• Defence Cooperation: Germany Participated in many multilateral exercises with India, such as: MILAN, PASSEX, EX TARANG SHAKTI-1.
• Trade Cooperation: India was Germany’s 23rd largest trading partner in 2024 and Germany was the 8th largest trading partner for India in and is India’s largest trading partner in the EU.
• Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (2022): Germany pledged €10 billion by 2030.
• Collaboration in renewable energy, metro projects, green corridors, and smart cities directly aids India’s climate goals and SDG commitments.

Multilateral Cooperation:

• Support for India’s permanent seat at UNSC.
• Coordination at G20, UN, WTO, COP climate talks.
• Indian Diaspora: There are around 2.46 lakh (2023) Indian passport holders and Indian-origin people in Germany.

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and India

Geography & Environment

In Context

• At COP29, carbon markets under Article 6 (A6) of the Paris Agreement were made fully operational to improve the delivery and efficiency of climate finance.
• Earlier, India took a major step by signing the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM), effectively operationalising Article 6.2 and marking India’s formal entry into international carbon market cooperation.

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

• It creates a framework that allows countries to cooperate voluntarily to achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) through two main routes:
• Article 6.2: Enables bilateral or plurilateral cooperation through the trading of emission reductions, called Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs).
• Article 6.4: Establishes a centralized Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism (PACM), evolved from the earlier Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), to validate and verify projects generating carbon credits.
• Both mechanisms are backed by strong accounting rules to avoid double counting and ensure transparency and environmental integrity.

India and the Joint Crediting Mechanism

• India’s entry into Article 6 through its JCM partnership with Japan represents the operationalisation of Article 6.2. The JCM framework will facilitate the adoption of low-carbon and advanced industrial technologies, offering mutual benefits—emissions reduction for Japan and technology transfer and finance for India.
• The Indian government has identified 13 eligible activities under A6, focusing on high-impact, emerging technologies such as:
• Renewable energy with storage and offshore wind
• Green hydrogen and compressed bio-gas
• Sustainable aviation fuel and fuel-cell mobility
• High-end energy efficiency applications

Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS)

• These reflect a strategic alignment between India’s growth priorities and long-term decarbonisation goals, particularly for industries like steel, cement, and power generation.

First Fully Organic Village of Rajasthan

Economy

In News

• Bamanwas Kankar Panchayat, Rajasthan, has become the first fully organic village body in the state, covering seven hamlets.

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.

Additional Information- 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.

ISRO’s PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission Experienced an Anomaly During the Third Stage

Science and Technology

In News

• ISRO’s first launch of the year, the PSLV-C62 mission failed to place its 16 satellites into the intended orbit, marking the second consecutive failure of the long-reliable PSLV rocket.

The PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission

• It was the 64th flight of India’s PSLV and ninth commercial mission by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
• It aimed to launch the EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite along with 15 co-passenger satellites.
• EOS-N1 is an Earth observation satellite intended for environmental monitoring, resource mapping, and disaster management.

Additional information – Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)

• It is the third generation launch vehicle of India.
• It has also been called “the workhorse of ISRO” for consistently delivering various satellites into low earth orbits with a high success rate.
• It is the first Indian launch vehicle to be equipped with liquid stages.
• It is a four-stage rocket in which each stage has its own engine and fuel.

Major launches

• First successful launch in October 1994.
• PSLV successfully launched two spacecraft – Chandrayaan-1 in 2008 and Mars Orbiter Spacecraft in 2013 that later travelled to Moon and Mars respectively.
• It also launched India’s first space observatory, Astrosat.

Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)

• It is India’s largest fourth-generation launch vehicle, designed to overcome the limitations of the PSLV by carrying heavier payloads to higher orbits.
• GSLV is a three-stage vehicle, capable of delivering up to 1,750 kg to low Earth orbit (up to 600 km) and smaller payloads to Geostationary Transfer Orbit.
• GSLVs use cryogenic engines with liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, providing greater thrust than earlier launch vehicles.
• Its advanced variant, LVM-3 (formerly GSLV Mk III), employs solid, liquid, and cryogenic engines, carrying up to 8,000 kg to low Earth orbit (up to 2,000 km) and 4,000 kg to geosynchronous orbit (36,000 km), earning the nickname ‘Bahubali’ for its payload capacity.

Major launches

• LVM-3’s first successful mission was in 2017 with GSAT-19.
• It was followed by Chandrayaan-2 in 2019 and Chandrayaan-3 in 2023.
• Note – ISRO is developing its heaviest rocket, the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV), expected by 2035, to support future lunar missions, including India’s first human Moon mission planned for 2040.

Bhadrakali Inscription

Culture

In News

• Recently, it has been highlighted that Prabhas Patan has a rich historical and spiritual heritage, with inscriptions like Bhadrakali, copper plates, and memorial stones showcasing its prosperity, valor, and devotion.
• Note – Prabhas Patan, also known as Dev Patan, is a historic and sacred locality in Veraval, Gujarat, celebrated as the site of the Somnath Temple. It remains one of India’s most significant pilgrimage destinations, housing the first of the twelve holy Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

Bhadrakali Inscription

• It was carved in 1169 CE (Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255) and currently protected by the State Department of Archaeology.
• It is located near the museum in Prabhas Patan, beside the old Ram Temple in Bhadrakali lane.
• It is a eulogistic inscription of Param Pashupata Acharya Shriman Bhavabrihaspati, the spiritual preceptor of Maharajadhiraj Kumarapala of Anhilwad Patan.

Features

• It records the ancient and medieval history of the Somnath Temple.
• It mentions the construction of Somnath Mahadev in all four yugas.

Accordingly, in the

1. Satya Yuga, Chandra (Soma) built it of gold;
2. In the Treta Yuga, Ravana built it of silver;
3. In the Dvapara Yuga, Shri Krishna built it of wood
4. In the Kali Yuga, King Bhimdev Solanki constructed a beautifully artistic stone temple.

• History confirms that Bhimdev Solanki built the fourth temple on the earlier remains, followed by the fifth temple constructed by Kumarapala in 1169 CE at the same site

Importance

• Prabhas Patan embodies the spiritual pride of Sanatan Dharma.
• The Bhadrakali inscription highlights the devotion of Solanki rulers and scholars like Bhavabrihaspati, and its rich artistic, architectural, and literary legacy continues to inspire, affirming that devotion and self-respect remain timeless.

Pax Silica

International

Context

• The US Ambassador announced that India would be invited next month to join Pax Silica.

Pax Silica

• Objective – It is a US-led strategic initiative to build a secure, prosperous, and innovation-driven silicon supply chain from critical minerals.
• The inaugural Pax Silica Summit was held in December 2025 and the signatories include Australia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the UK, the Netherlands, and the UAE.
• Together, these countries are home to the most important companies and investors powering the global AI supply chain.
• Note – Qatar became the latest signatory to Pax Silica.
• Significance – Its objective is to reduce coercive dependencies, protect the materials and capabilities foundational to artificial intelligence, and ensure aligned nations can develop and deploy transformative technologies at scale.

Significance for India

• Joining Pax Silica might help India diversify away from China to more secure suppliers like Australia for critical minerals.

HPV Vaccination

Health and Society

Context

• A large population-based study has shown that high HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination coverage can reduce precancerous cervical lesions even among unvaccinated women, highlighting a strong herd-protective effect.

Cervical Cancer

• Cervical cancer develops in a woman’s cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina).
• Spread: Almost all cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact.
• Prevalence: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women.
• It is the second most common type of cancer in India for women.
• Treatment: When diagnosed, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer, as long as it is detected early and managed effectively.
• Vaccination: There are, at present, two vaccines available in the country against the human papillomavirus (HPV) which causes cervical cancer, namely Merck’s Gardasil and Serum Institute of India’s Cervavac.

National Youth Day 2026

Polity and Governance

In News

• Recently, National Youth Day was observed to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

National Youth Day or Rashtriya Yuva Divas

• It is celebrated on 12th January every year in commemoration of the great spiritual leader, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda
• His unwavering belief in the potential of youth continues to resonate deeply with young citizens of the country.

Related Steps

• Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) : It is an autonomous, technology-driven platform under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports that empowers youth by connecting them with volunteering, skill development, leadership, and experiential learning opportunities.
• National Service Scheme (NSS): It is a scheme under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and aims at instigating social consciousness of the student youth with an overall objective of personality development of the youth through community service.
• Agnipath Scheme: The Government launched the Agnipath scheme in 2022. Under the scheme, both male and female aspirants are recruited into the ‘below the officer’s rank’ cadre of the three services for a four-year period as Agniveers.
• Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU): In October 2025, the Government launched PM-SETU and  it is a flagship, centrally sponsored scheme to modernise India’s network of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and align vocational training with global industry standards.
• The Skill India Mission (SIM) : Launched in 2015 on World Youth Skills Day, it provides training to skill, re-skill, and up-skill individuals through a wide network of centres and institutes.
• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): It was launched in 2015 to provide short-term skill training and upskilling or re-skilling, including through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), to youth across India.
• The Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme, initially launched as Shramik Vidyapeeth (SVP) in 1967, aims to provide skill training in a non-formal mode.
• National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS): The scheme launched in August 2016, promotes apprenticeship by offering financial support for apprentice stipends.
• Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY): Launched in 2014 and is a part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), tasked with the dual objectives of adding diversity to the incomes of rural poor families and cater to the career aspirations of rural youth.
• Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana: In 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana with an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore.
• It will offer financial incentives of up to ₹15,000, disbursed in two installments, to newly employed youth. In addition, employers will receive support of up to ₹3,000 per month for each new employee, encouraging the creation of new job opportunities.
• Startup India: Launched in 2016 to foster a robust ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY): It is aimed at Funding the Unfunded micro enterprises and small businesses.
• The Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to address the holistic health needs of adolescents aged 10–19 years across India.

Conclusion

• National Youth Day 2026 highlights the vital role of India’s youth in shaping the nation’s future through education, startups, service, and leadership.
• Inspired by Swami Vivekananda, the day underscores that youth are not just inheritors but architects of India’s journey toward 2047.

Additional Information – Swami Vivekananda

• He was born Narendra Nath Datta in Kolkata on January 12, 1863,
• He was a key figure in introducing Hindu philosophies of Yoga and Vedanta to the West.
• He was a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa and he devoted himself to spiritual and social reform in India, traveling across the country to educate people on economic improvement and spiritual knowledge.
• He gained global recognition with his 1893 address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, advocating universal tolerance, acceptance of all religions, and pride in Indian traditions.
• After returning to India, he founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 and Belur Math in 1899, promoting the integration of spirituality with material progress.
• Through his teachings, lectures, and writings—including Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga—he spread the practice of yoga and the principles of ‘neo-Vedanta’, leaving a lasting legacy as a messenger of Indian wisdom and a visionary for social and spiritual upliftment.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had called him the “maker of modern India.”