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FCRA Amendment Bill 2026

Polity & Governance

Context

• Recently, the Union Government has deferred discussion on the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 which triggered political controversy, especially ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections.

Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA)

• Mandate– It is a key legislation that regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign funds by individuals, NGOs, and associations in India.
• It is administered by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Significance – It aims to ensure foreign contributions do not affect national interest, sovereignty, or public order.

Provisions of FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026

New “Designated Authority” to Take Over Assets

• What it does: If an NGO’s registration is cancelled, surrendered, or even if it simply expires and isn’t renewed, this authority can step in and take control of all its foreign funds and assets (like buildings or equipment bought with foreign money).
• Permanent Takeover: If the registration is not restored within a certain timeframe, the government can permanently take these assets, sell them, or transfer them to other government departments.

Personal Liability for “Key Functionaries”

• The Bill expands the definition of “key functionary” to include directors, partners, trustees, and anyone in a management role.

Automatic Ending of Registration

• How it works: Under the new rules, an FCRA registration will automatically lapse if it expires and hasn’t been renewed, or if a renewal request is rejected.
• Strict Timelines: The Bill also sets fixed timelines for how quickly organisations must use the foreign funds they receive.

Changes to Investigations and Penalties

• Centralised Approval: Local police or state agencies now need prior approval from the Central Government before they can even start an investigation into an FCRA-related complaint.
• Reduced Prison Time: The maximum jail term for breaking FCRA rules is being reduced from five years to one year, though fines still apply.

Parliament Passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Bill, 2026

Economy

Context

• The Parliament has passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016

• It provides a time-bound process for resolving insolvency in companies and among individuals.
• Insolvency definition – It is a situation where individuals or companies are unable to repay their outstanding debt.
• Bankruptcy definition – It is a situation whereby a court of competent jurisdiction has declared a person or other entity insolvent, having passed appropriate orders to resolve it and protect the rights of the creditors. It is a legal declaration of one’s inability to pay off debts.
• Significance – It aims to remove bottlenecks, streamline the corporate insolvency resolution process and protect the last mile funding in order to boost investment in financially distressed sectors.

Adjudicating authority

• National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for companies and LLPs.
• Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) for individuals and partnership firms.

Key Features of IBC (Amendment) Bill, 2026

• Timelines for liquidation: The Bill adds that NCLT must pass the order for liquidation within 30 days from the date of the application or intimation. 
• It also specifies that liquidation proceedings must be completed in 180 days, extendable by up to 90 days.
• Mandatory Admission: The bill mandates that the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) must admit an insolvency application within 14 days if the default is proven and the application is complete, removing judicial discretion on this timeline.
• Cross-Border Insolvency: Introduces a framework to deal with insolvency cases involving foreign assets/creditors.

Qdenga (TAK-003)

Health

Context

• Qdenga, developed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, has received clearance from the Drugs Controller General of India for individuals aged 4–60 years.

Qdenga (TAK-003)

• TAK-003 is a live-attenuated, tetravalent dengue vaccine, containing weakened forms of all four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4) to stimulate immunity.

India’s first indigenous dengue vaccine

• DengiAll is an indigenous, tetravalent, single-dose dengue vaccine candidate being developed by Panacea Biotec in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
• It is designed to fight all four serotypes and is currently in Phase III trials.

Additional Information – Dengue

• Pathogen – Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV).
• DENV is an RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family with four serotypes (DENV-1 to 4).
• Symptoms: High fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, rash.
• Transmission: The virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.
• There is a possibility of maternal transmission of Dengue (from a pregnant mother to her baby), transmission via blood products, organ donation and transfusions.
• Prevention: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, so prevention relies on controlling mosquito populations and raising public awareness.
• The mosquitoes that spread dengue are active during the day. The best way of protection is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

GLP-1 Therapy

Health

Context

• Multiple variants of GLP-1 drugs have been recently introduced in the Indian market, and concerns have emerged regarding their on-demand availability.
• GLP-1 medication was approved by the United States’ Food & Drug Administration in 2005.

GLP-1 drugs

• Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are medications developed to treat both type 2 diabetes and obesity by correcting hormonal imbalance.
• They slow down the gastric emptying, increasing the feeling of fullness.
• This decreases patients’ appetites and thereby leads to their weight loss.
• To ensure ethical pharmaceutical practices in the supply chain of GLP-1, the Drug Controller General of India has intensified its regulatory surveillance against the drug’s unauthorised sale and promotion.
• In India, the drug can be prescribed only by endocrinologists, internal medicine specialists and cardiologists.

Additional Information – Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO)

• Established under – It is the Central Drug Authority and is responsible for carrying out duties entrusted by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act,1940.
• Responsibilities:
  • Adoption of drugs.
  • clinical trials, please.
  • establishing the criteria for drugs.
  • control over the country’s imported drugs’ quality.
  • Coordination of state drug control organizations’ effort

Other Drug Regulatory Bodies in India

• Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI): It is in charge of approving licenses for specific kinds of medications. He or she also serves as the head of the CDSCO department of the Indian government.
• Drug Price Control Order (DPCO): To keep certain necessary medications in India accessible for the general people, the DPCO controls their prices.
• Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940: This act regulates domestic drug use.

Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G) Completed 10 Years

Schemes

In News

• PMAY-G completes 10 years of implementation in 2026, marking a decade of India’s flagship rural housing mission.

Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G)

• Aim: Provide “Housing for All” in rural areas — financial assistance to eligible rural households, including houseless families and those living in zero, one, or two-room kutcha houses, to construct pucca homes with basic amenities.
• Beneficiary Selection: Using housing deprivation parameters from the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), 2011, verified by Gram Sabhas.
• Funding Pattern: 60:40 (Centre:State) in plain areas; 90:10 for North-Eastern and Himalayan states.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD).

Financial Assistance:

• Minimum unit size of 25 sq. m.
• ₹1.20 lakh in plain areas; ₹1.30 lakh in hilly/North-Eastern states.
• Additional ₹12,000 for toilet construction via convergence with Swachh Bharat Mission.

Reforms in the Scheme

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Financial assistance released directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, eliminating middlemen.
• Geo-tagging: Time and date-stamped photographs uploaded at every construction stage for real-time monitoring.
• AI-driven monitoring: AI and Machine Learning tools for anomaly detection; Aadhaar face authentication (including eye-blink detection) to verify beneficiaries and prevent fraud.
• Village-level Functionaries: Each sanctioned house is tagged to a local functionary who follows up with the beneficiary.
• Social Audits: Every Gram Panchayat conducts a formal social audit at least once a year.

Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026

Economy

In News

• The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, was passed by the Parliament of India on April 2, 2026.
• This legislation is a significant expansion of the government’s decriminalisation initiative, following the original Jan Vishwas Act of 2023.

Key Objectives & Impact

• Mandate – The Bill aims to enhance Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living by transitioning from a punitive to a trust-based governance model.
• Decriminalisation: It decriminalises 717 provisions across 79 Central Acts.
• Scale: In total, the Bill amends 784 provisions administered by 23 different Ministries.
• Offence Rationalisation: More than 1,000 minor offences have been rationalised, shifting from criminal imprisonment to civil penalties, administrative fines, or warnings.

Major Provisions

• Adjudication Mechanism: It provides for the appointment of Adjudicating Officers to handle inquiries and determine penalties, and Appellate Authorities to hear appeals, thereby reducing the burden on the court system.
• Graduated Response: For first-time or minor lapses, the Bill introduces “warning-first” principles.
• Dynamic Penalties: Most fines and penalties will see a 10% increment every three years to maintain their deterrent effect.
• Key Acts Amended: Major laws affected include the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Ammonium Nitrate

Science and Tech

Context

• Bharat Coal Gasification and Chemicals Ltd. and Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd. recently signed an agreement for a Coal to Ammonium Nitrate Project.

Ammonium Nitrate

• A white, crystalline, water-soluble solid, not found in nature; synthetically produced by reacting ammonia with nitric acid.
• It is hygroscopic in nature and under high heat, it decomposes explosively, releasing nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).
• Example: 2015 Tianjin (China) explosion and 2020 Beirut port explosion.
• One of the world’s most widely used chemicals serving dual roles as a fertiliser and an industrial explosive.
• It is listed as a hazardous chemical under Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 1989.

E-3 Sentry AWACS

Defence

Context

• Iran’s missile and drone strike on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base has reportedly destroyed a US E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft.

E-3 Sentry (AWACS)

• The E-3 Sentry is an airborne early warning and control aircraft developed by Boeing for advanced surveillance and battle management.
• The aircraft is commonly known as AWACS, which stands for Airborne Warning and Control System.
• It is equipped with a distinctive rotating radar dome mounted above its fuselage that enables long-range detection and tracking of aerial targets.

Airborne Warning and Control System in India

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) operates three Israeli-origin Phalcon Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) mounted on Russian Ilyushin Il-76 transport aircraft.
• These systems, known as “eyes in the sky,” provide 360-degree radar coverage, with capabilities to detect aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones at ranges of 370–500 km.
• The NETRA Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system is an indigenous, multi-sensor platform developed by DRDO, primarily designed for aerial surveillance, target identification, and command-and-control capabilities.
• It is based on the Brazilian Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft.

Rice’s Whale

Environment

Context

• The US expansion of oil and gas drilling could push the Rice Whale to extinction.

Rice’s Whale (Balaenoptera ricei)

• Belonging to the baleen whale family Balaenopteridae.
• It is one of the rarest whale species, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining.
• Range and Habitat: It is endemic to the northern Gulf of Mexico and lives year‑round within this region without undertaking long migrations.
• Diet: Primarily feeds on small fish and squid.
• Threat: Oil drilling, vessel strikes, and climate change.
• Conservation status: It is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Do you know?

• The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was established in 1946 as the global body responsible for management of whaling and conservation of whales.
• Currently, the IWC has more than 80 member countries, including India.

Sanand as India’s Semiconductor Hub

Economy

Context

• Recently, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated a semiconductor assembly and test facility by Kaynes Semicon in Sanand, Gujarat. 

• • The project is part of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
  • It marks India’s push toward becoming a global semiconductor manufacturing hub.

• Sanand is being positioned as a critical link in the global semiconductor supply chain.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 

• Launched in – December 2021

• Implementation- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Launched in December 2021

• Objective – to build a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem

India-Semiconductor Mission 2.0 

• It was unveiled in the Union Budget 2026–27, 
• It focuses on semiconductor equipment and materials to create a “full-stack Indian semiconductor ecosystem.”

Additional Information – Government Schemes

• Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme: Financial and infrastructure su pport for chip design startups; target of 100+ domestic semiconductor design firms.
• PLI Scheme for Electronics Manufacturing: Boosts demand-side ecosystem, linked with mobile manufacturing growth.
• Chips-to-Startup Programme: Access to EDA tools and fabrication support; covers 300+ institutions.
• National Critical Minerals Mission & Rare Earth Corridor: To reduce dependence on China (rare earths) and Taiwan (fabs).

Global Supply Chain & Strategic Positioning

• India’s membership in Pax Silica — a U.S.-led initiative — aims to secure supply chains for critical technologies including semiconductors and AI. 

Pax Silica Initiative

• Objective – It is a US-led strategic initiative to build a secure, prosperous, and innovation-driven silicon supply chain from critical minerals.
• Members – Japan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, The United Kingdom, Israel, United Arab Emirates, and Australia.

Cooperatives of India

Economy

Context

• Centre has  informed Lok Sabha that only 3.49 lakh cooperatives are in profit.

Connect with the basics – Cooperatives

• A cooperative (or co-op) is an organization or business that is owned and operated by a group of individuals who share a common interest, goal, or need. 
• The main purpose of a cooperative is to meet the economic, social, or cultural needs of its members, rather than to maximize profits for external shareholders.

Benefits of Cooperatives

• Democratic Control: Members have a voice in decision-making.
• Economic Participation: Profits are distributed based on usage or contribution, not capital invested.
• Community Focus: Co-ops often aim to benefit local communities by keeping resources and profits within the group.
• Better Services/Prices: By pooling resources, cooperatives often offer better services or prices than for-profit businesses.

97th Constitutional Amendment Act 2011

• It established the right to form cooperative societies as a fundamental right (Article 19).
• It included a new Directive Principle of State Policy on the Promotion of Cooperative Societies (Article 43-B).
• It added a new Part IX-B to the Constitution titled “The Co-operative Societies” (Articles 243-ZH to 243-ZT). 

Legal Framework and Support for Cooperatives:

• In India, cooperatives are governed by the Cooperative Societies Act, which is implemented at both the state and national levels.
• The Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act (2002): This law regulates cooperatives that operate in more than one state.
• The National Cooperative Policy (2002): Aimed at creating an enabling environment for the cooperative movement, it focuses on improving governance, member participation, and financial sustainability.
• The Ministry of Cooperation: Established in 2021, this ministry focuses on supporting the growth of cooperatives in India, including reforming their governance and providing financial support.
• National Cooperation Policy 2025: It aims to build on the unique strengths of India’s cooperative tradition, promote economic democratization, and uplift rural economies through collective participation.

Bab el-Mandab Strait

Geography

In News

• Concerns have risen over the possible disruption of the Bab el-Mandab Strait, following the entry of the Iran-backed Houthis of Yemen into the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Bab el-Mandab Strait

• It is also known in Arabic as the “Gate of Tears,” is located at the southern tip of the Red Sea.
• It lies between Yemen on one side and the Horn of Africa on the other.
• It connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, and further with the Indian Ocean.
• It is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints.

Strategic Importance

• The Bab el-Mandab accounts for roughly 10–12% of global oil and natural gas shipments.
• It is strategically important because it connects with the Suez Canal, which further links it to  the Mediterranean Sea.
• It is also linked to the SUMED pipeline, making it a vital corridor for global energy and trade flows.

Additional Information – SUMED (Suez-Mediterranean) pipeline

• It is a 200-mile pipeline in Egypt connecting Ain Sukhna on the Red Sea to Sidi Kerir on the Mediterranean.
• It is a strategic alternative to the Suez Canal for transporting Persian Gulf oil to Europe and North America,

Key Details :

• Purpose: Key crude oil transportation route to bypass the Suez Canal, vital for energy security during congestion.
• Route: Connects Ain Sukhna (Gulf of Suez, Red Sea) to Sidi Kerir (near Alexandria, Mediterranean).
• Capacity: Roughly 2.5 million barrels per day.
• Ownership: Operated by the Arab Petroleum Pipeline Company (joint venture between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, and Qatar).

Samrat Samprati

Art & Culture

In News

• The Prime Minister inaugurated the Samrat Samprati Sangrahalay (Jain Heritage Museum) at Koba Tirth in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Samrat Samprati

• • A Mauryan emperor and grandson of emperor Ashoka.
  • Also known by the names Indrapalit, Sangat, and Vigatashok.
  • His life is described in Jain scriptures including Sampratikatha, Parishistaparva, and Prabhavakcharita.
  • Referred to as ‘Jain Ashoka’ for his pivotal role in spreading Jainism and the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) across the subcontinent.
  • PM Modi noted that Samrat Samprati expanded ahimsa from the throne and propagated Satya (Truth), Asteya (non-stealing), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) with detachment and selflessness — treating power as service and sadhana. Prime Minister of India

• Known to have built and repaired many Jain temples across the subcontinent.

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe)

Science & Technology

In News

• The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has opened applications for the second edition of IN-SPACe’s Model Rocketry Competition.

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) 

• It is a single-window, autonomous nodal agency under the Department of Space (DOS). 
• Established by the Government of India in June 2020, 
• It acts as a bridge between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs), including private companies and academia. 
• Chairman: Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka.
• Headquarters: Located in Bopal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Key Functions & Roles

• IN-SPACe is responsible for promoting, enabling, authorising, and supervising the space activities of private players in India: 
• Facilitation: Provides NGEs with access to ISRO infrastructure and technical expertise to build and launch space missions.
• Promotion: Focuses on expanding the Indian space economy through initiatives like the ₹500 crore Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) and the Satellite Bus as a Service (SBaaS).

Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026

Environment

Context

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026.

The Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026

• Notified by – Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
• It will come into full effect on April 1, 2026.
• These rules supersede the SWM Rules, 2016 and aim to transition India toward a Circular Economy and a “Zero Waste” model.

Key Provisions of SWM Rules, 2026

• Source Segregation: Mandates separating waste into four streams: wet, dry, sanitary, and special care (hazardous).
• Bulk Generators: Entities producing 100 kg/day must handle wet waste locally or adopt Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
• Fuel Usage: Industries and cement plants must increase Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) usage from 5% to 15% within six years.
• Digital Monitoring: A centralized CPCB portal will track the entire waste life cycle.
• Compliance: Stricter “Polluter Pays” enforcement and mandatory, time-bound remediation of legacy landfill sites.

Arab League

Syllabus: GS2/Regional Groupings

Context

• The Council of the League of Arab States has issued a strong condemnation of Iran’s attacks on several Arab countries.

About

• The Arab League, officially known as the League of Arab States was established in Cairo in 1945 initially with seven members.
• Seven founding member states: Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.
• Currently it has 22 member states.
• The member nations are located in the Middle East and North Africa.
• It has pledged to cooperate on economic and military affairs.
• The League Council is the highest body and is composed of representatives of member states.
• The league makes decisions on a majority basis, but there is no mechanism to compel members to comply with resolutions.
• There are four nations that were conferred observer status: Brazil, Eritrea, India, and Venezuela.
• Source: AIR

“Bhavasagara” Referral Centre

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment

In News

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has officially designated the “Bhavasagara” Referral Centre of the Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE), Kochi, Kerala, as India’s National Repository for Deep-Sea Fauna.
• The recognition has been granted under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

About

• The designation establishes “Bhavasagara” Referral Centre as a critical national facility for the preservation, study, and documentation of India’s deep-sea biological heritage.
• The Centre currently houses an extensive collection of more than 3,500 taxonomically identified and geo-referenced voucher specimens.
• Under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the Repository is authorised to:
• Preserve representative biological samples (such as DNA sequences)
• Act as the official custodian for any new deep-sea species
• Capacity Building: Aligning with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).
• Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE)
• Established in 1998, Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE) is a premier institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India.
• It is dedicated to the exploration, management, and conservation of marine living resources.
• CMLRE works in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and the adjacent deep seas.

GRSE Delivers 3 Frontline Naval Platforms to Indian Navy

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

Context

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) delivered three frontline naval platforms, INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agray,  to the Indian Navy.
• With this GRSE has reached the milestone of building 118 warships, including 80 delivered to the Indian Navy, strengthening India’s indigenous defence ecosystem.

INS Dunagiri (Advanced Stealth Frigate)

• It is the second ship under Project 17A built by GRSE. The 149-metre, 6,670-tonne frigate is equipped with:
• BrahMos for precision strikes.
• Advanced AESA radar and integrated combat management systems.
• It operates on a Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion system.
• It is capable of multi-dimensional warfare across air, surface, and sub-surface domains.
• INS Sanshodhak (Survey Vessel – Large)
• It is the fourth and final vessel in its class. It is designed for
• Hydrographic surveys in coastal and deep waters.
• Collection of oceanographic data.
• It also supports Helicopter operations, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions and Limited combat roles.
• INS Agray (ASW Shallow Watercraft)
• It is designed specifically for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) in littoral waters. It features:
• ~88% indigenous content
• Lightweight torpedoes and ASW rockets
• 30 mm naval gun
• Its shallow draught and waterjet propulsion enhance manoeuvrability in coastal areas.
• Source: AIR

14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

Context

• The 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) of the World Trade Organization concluded in Yaoundé without consensus on extending the e-commerce duty moratorium.

What is the E-commerce Moratorium?

• WTO members agreed in 1998 not to impose customs duties on electronic transmissions, which include:
• Digital goods such as e-books, software, music, and video games.
• Services delivered electronically such as streaming platforms.
• The moratorium has been renewed biennially at successive Ministerial Conferences. Its expiry on March 31, 2026 allows countries to impose tariffs on digital trade.

Key Issues at Ministerial Conference (MC14)

• Lack of Consensus on Extension: Developed countries such as the U.S., EU, and Japan supported a long-term or permanent extension.
• Developing countries, including India, opposed the extension due to concerns over revenue loss and reduced policy space in the digital economy.
• Disagreement over duration (2 years vs. 5 years) led to a negotiation deadlock.
• TRIPS Non-Violation Moratorium: It led to the expiry of the safeguard against non-violation complaints under the TRIPS Agreement,
• The safeguard since 1995 has protected the policy space of developing countries. Without it, even WTO-compliant measures, such as compulsory licensing, can be challenged by developed countries.
• For India, this increases the risk of disputes over Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, 1970, which restricts patents for already-known drugs unless the new claims are superior in terms of efficacy. It curbs the evergreening of patents.
• Fisheries Subsidies: Members celebrated the entry into force of the 2022 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, which bans support to illegal fishing, to the fishing of already depleted stocks without efforts to restore them, and to unregulated fishing on the high seas.
• However the agreement does not cover subsidies causing overcapacity and overfishing.
• The members agreed to continue negotiations on fisheries subsidies to address unresolved issues at the 15th Ministerial Conference.
• Core Principles Advocated by India
• Development-Centric Multilateralism: India stressed the importance of an open trading system and reiterated the principle of non-discrimination, as embedded in the Marrakesh Agreement.
• Public Stockholding (PSH) for Food Security: India demanded a permanent solution on Public Stockholding (PSH). It argued that:
• A large proportion of Indian farmers are small and resource-constrained.
• The Minimum Support Price (MSP) system is essential for ensuring income security.
• Special and Differential Treatment (S&DT): India emphasised the need for effective Special and Differential Treatment provisions for developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to address structural inequalities in global trade.
• Dispute Settlement Mechanism: India stressed the need to restore a fully functional, automatic, and binding dispute settlement system.
• The current paralysis of the Appellate Body undermines the credibility of the WTO.

World Trade Organization (WTO)

• WTO is the international organization that deals with the rules of trade between countries.
• History:WTO is the successor to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) established in the wake of the Second World War.
• The Marrakesh Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization was signed by 123 countries in 1994, leading to the birth of the WTO on 1 January 1995. 
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Member: The WTO is run by its 166 members.
• Mandate: Its aim is to promote free trade, which is done through trade agreements that are discussed and signed by the member states.
• The preamble of the Marrakesh Agreement accords primacy to the developmental objectives of this organization.

Organizational Structure of WTO

• Ministerial Conference: The WTO’s apex decision-making body is the Ministerial Conference, which usually takes place every two years.
• All members of the WTO are involved in the Ministerial Conference and they can take decisions on all matters covered under any multilateral trade agreements.
• General Council: It is just below the Ministerial Conference that meets several times a year at the WTO’s headquarters in Geneva.
• It meets as the Trade Policy Review Body and the Dispute Settlement Body.
• Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Council: It is for the Goods, Services, and Intellectual Property, and it reports to the General Council.
• Source: TH

Census 2027

Syllabus: GS2/ Polity and Governance

Context

• India is set to conduct its next population Census digitally, with the exercise scheduled to commence in 2026 and conclude by March 1, 2027.

Census in India

• A census is a survey of the population of an area that includes collecting details of a country’s demographics including age, sex and occupation.
• It is typically conducted every ten years and was scheduled for 2021 but had to be postponed due to the Covid pandemic. 
• The government has made it mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.
• The NPR is prepared under the provisions of the Citizenship Act 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003.
• It is mandatory for every “usual resident of India” to register in the NPR.
• History: Under W.C. Plowden, the Census Commissioner of India, the first synchronous decennial (every ten years) census was conducted in 1881.
• Independent India’s first census was held in 1951 and since then it has happened in the first year of every decade.
• The Constitution mandates that enumeration is carried out but the Census of India Act of 1948 does not specify its timing or periodicity.
• The population census is conducted by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Major Features of Census 2027
• First Digital Census: The Census will be conducted using digital devices such as mobile phones and laptops.
• Multilingual Access: The self-enumeration portal will be available in 16 languages.
• Caste Enumeration: This will be the first Census since 1931 to capture granular caste data, beyond the broader classifications of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
• Key Structural Changes in Administrative Units
• India now has 36 States and Union Territories, marking an increase of one since Census 2011.
• The number of districts has increased significantly from 640 to 784, reflecting administrative reorganization.
• Urban Expansion:
• Statutory towns increased from 4,041 to 5,128, indicating formal urban growth.
• Census towns rose from 3,892 to 4,580, reflecting rural areas transitioning into urban-like settlements.
• Source: TH

West Asian Crisis Disrupts India’s Coffee Exports

Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture

Context

• The ongoing crisis in West Asia has severely disrupted Indian coffee exports, stalling approximately 15–20% of shipments near the Persian Gulf, impacting key markets in West Asia and Europe.

Coffee Exports of India

• India ranks as the fifth-largest exporter of coffee.
• The top 5 export destinations for Indian coffee are Italy (18.09percent), Germany (11.01percent), Belgium (7.47percent), the Russian Federation (5.28percent), and the United Arab Emirates (5.09percent).

Geographical Condition for Coffee production

• Climate: Coffee grows well in tropical climates. It requires a warm, humid climate with mild winters. Shade is essential for healthy growth, and coffee is often grown under tree cover.
• Soil: Requires well-drained, fertile soils, rich in humus and organic matter.
• Soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0–6.5.
• Temperature: Ideal annual temperature ranges between 15°C and 28°C.
• Frost is harmful to coffee plants, and extreme hot or dry conditions also reduce yield.
• Precipitation: Coffee thrives in hilly regions with elevations of 600–1,600 metres above sea level.
• Sloping terrain ensures proper drainage and prevents waterlogging.
• Major Coffee producing states are Karnataka (largest producer, contributes nearly 70% of India’s coffee), Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
• Other emerging states are: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and the North-Eastern region (mainly Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Meghalaya).

Indian coffees with GI tags

• Coorg Arabica coffee: Grown in Kodagu district, Karnataka.
• Wayanad robusta coffee: Cultivated in Wayanad district, Kerala.
• Chikmagalur Arabica coffee: Produced in Chikmagalur district, Karnataka.
• Bababudangiri Arabica coffee: Grown in Chikmagalur, known for hints of chocolate.
• Monsooned Malabar robusta coffee: A distinctive speciality from Kerala, renowned for its unique taste.
• Araku coffee: cultivated in the hilly terrains of the Visakhapatnam district in Andhra Pradesh and the Odisha region, at elevations of 900-1100 meters above sea level. 

Coffee Board of India

• It was established under the Coffee Act VII of 1942.
• It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Headquarters: Bengaluru.

Artemis 2 Mission

Syllabus: GS3/ Space

Context

• NASA is going to  launch the Artemis II mission.

About Artemis II

• Artemis II is part of NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon in a more sustained and strategic manner.
• The mission will send four astronauts on a journey around the Moon.
• Artemis II is part of a broader effort to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon.
• The mission treats the Moon not just as a destination, but as a platform for deeper space exploration.

Difference between Artemis and Apollo Missions

Apollo Programme Artemis Programme

– The Apollo programme landed 12 humans on the Moon. These landings took place between 1969 and 1972.

– The astronauts landed two at a time.

– Apollo missions were historic achievements, but they were designed primarily for short-duration visits and demonstration of technological capability. – The Artemis programme aims not only to land humans on the Moon, but also to:

1. develop the capability for repeated missions,
2. support long-term astronaut presence,
3. and create infrastructure needed for future deep-space missions.

– Artemis is a stepping stone toward more ambitious human exploration beyond the Moon.

• Source: TH

PM-KUSUM 2.0

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment

In News

• The government is considering adding a battery energy storage component under the revamped PM-KUSUM 2.0 scheme.

About PM-KUSUM

• PM-KUSUM stands for Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan.
• The current PM-KUSUM scheme, launched in 2019, is set to expire in March 2026. The revamped version is likely to be called PM-KUSUM 2.0.
• The proposal has gained importance because the existing scheme focuses on solarisation of agricultural pumps but does not include battery storage.
• The scheme seeks to reduce farmers’ dependence on diesel and grid electricity.
• It also supports India’s broader renewable energy transition.
• The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
• The scheme follows a shared funding model like 30 percent subsidy by Union government & state government each and 40 % contribution by the farmers. 

Role of Battery Storage

• Battery storage can store surplus solar power generated during peak hours.
• It can then supply this stored power when demand remains high, but solar generation falls.
• Therefore, battery storage is being considered as a way to improve energy management, power reliability and grid stability.
• Source: TH

Iranian Parliament Mulls Possible Exit from Nuclear Treaty

Syllabus: GS2/IR

Context

• As per the Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Iran’s Parliament is reviewing a possible exit from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

About

• The proposed legislation, according to lawmakers, would:
• Withdraw Iran from the NPT;
• Remove legal commitments tied to the 2015 nuclear deal;
• Support cooperation with other countries on civilian nuclear technology.
• Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)
• Iran is a signatory to the NPT, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons while allowing peaceful nuclear activity under monitoring.
• It was signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970, the NPT aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament.
• It divides the world into nuclear-weapon states (NWS), recognized as possessing nuclear weapons at the time of the treaty’s signing, and non-nuclear-weapon states (NNWS), which agree not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons. 
• The treaty also requires NWS to pursue disarmament negotiations in good faith.
• India, Israel, North Korea and Pakistan have not signed the NPT.
• Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) 2015
• Participants:
• Iran
• P5+1: Five permanent members of the UN Security Council (China, France, Russia, UK, U.S.) plus Germany.
• EU: Participated in negotiations.
• Iran’s Commitments
• Nuclear Restrictions: Iran agreed not to produce highly enriched uranium or plutonium for nuclear weapons and to ensure its nuclear facilities focus on civilian purposes.
• Centrifuge Limits: Iran limited the number, type, and level of its centrifuges, and reduced its stockpile of enriched uranium.
• Uranium enriched to 5% is for nuclear power; 20% for research or medical use; 90% for weapons.
• Monitoring and Verification: Iran agreed to allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) unfettered access to nuclear facilities, including undeclared sites.
• What Other Signatories Agreed To:
• Sanctions Relief: The EU, UN, and U.S. agreed to lift nuclear-related sanctions on Iran, but U.S. sanctions on ballistic missiles, terrorism support, and human rights remained.
• The U.S. lifted sanctions on oil exports but kept restrictions on financial transactions.
• UN arms and missile bans on Iran were lifted after five years, provided the IAEA confirmed Iran’s nuclear activities remained civilian.
• Violation of the Deal: If any signatory suspects Iran is violating the deal, the UN Security Council can vote on whether to continue sanctions relief.
• This “snapback” mechanism remains in effect for ten years, after which the UN sanctions are set to be permanently removed.
• Trump’s Withdrawal: In 2018, President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the deal, leading Iran to resume nuclear activities.
• Iran’s Nuclear Activity: In 2023, Iran enriched uranium to near weapons-grade levels, raising international concerns.
• Key provisions of the JCPOA began to expire by late 2023.

Way Ahead

• Lawmakers in Iran have in the past raised the idea of leaving the treaty in response to external pressure. 
• The current conflict has brought the issue back to the centre of political discussion.
• There has been no official confirmation yet that Iran will exit the treaty, and the outcome will depend on internal approvals and the course of the conflict.
• Source: TH

World Buddhist Peace Conference 2026

Syllabus: GS1/Ancient History

Context

• Hyderabad hosted the inaugural of the World Buddhist Peace Conference 2026.

About

• It is organised by Buddhavanam and Telangana Tourism Development Corporation, in association with Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.
• It brings together ministers, monks, scholars and delegates from over 20 countries in a bid to advance dialogue on peace, reconciliation and ethical leadership.
• Aim: To showcase Buddhavanam as a Buddhist Heritage Theme Park to world Buddhist countries, and to encourage them to have their monasteries and educational institutions at Buddhavanam to attract maximum footfalls from India.
• It is part of a larger global initiative aimed at positioning Telangana as a centre for Buddhist heritage diplomacy and peace-building. 

Buddhavanam

• It is located in Telangana, and is India’s first Buddhist Heritage Theme Park.
• It is located on the banks of the Krishna River, it showcases the life and teachings of Lord Buddha through art, sculptures, meditation zones, and thematic installations. 
• It is developed by the Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation.

Buddhism

• Buddhism is a spiritual and philosophical tradition based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, who lived between roughly 563 and 483 BCE in what is now Nepal and India.
• The core of Buddhism is the understanding of human suffering, its causes, and the path to overcome it. 
• Buddhism offers a path to enlightenment, which is seen as liberation from suffering and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).
• The ultimate goal in Buddhism is to attain Nirvana, a state of liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Buddhism

• Core Teachings of the Buddha
• The Four Noble Truths
• Dukkha: Life is suffering or unsatisfactory.
• Samudaya: Suffering is caused by craving and attachment (tanhā).
• Nirodha: The cessation of suffering is possible by letting go of craving.
• Magga: The path to the cessation of suffering is the Eightfold Path.
• The Noble Eightfold Path: Grouped into three categories: wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

The Three Marks of Existence

• Anicca (Impermanence): All things are in constant change.
• Dukkha (Suffering): Existence is filled with dissatisfaction.
• Anattā (Non-self): There is no permanent, unchanging self.
• The Goal: Nirvana (Nibbāna)
• A state beyond suffering and rebirth.
• Achieved through wisdom, ethical living, and mental discipline.
• Nirvana is the ultimate liberation and peace.

Buddhist Circuits

• In 2016, the Ministry of Tourism announced the Buddhist Circuit as the country’s first transnational tourism circuit, covering sites in Nepal and Sri Lanka alongside those in India. 
• The Buddhist Circuit seeks to help tourists and pilgrims experience first-hand the teachings of Lord Buddha and trace the footsteps of Buddha.
• The main sites covered under the circuit span the life of Buddha from his birth to his Parinirvana and comprise Bodh Gaya, Vaishali, Rajgir, Kushinagar, Sarnath and Shravasti, along with Kapilavastu and Lumbini.
• Four Holiest Buddhist Sites (Chaturmahāsthāna): 
• Lumbini (Nepal): Birthplace of Gautama Buddha.
• Bodh Gaya (Bihar): Attained Enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
• Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh): First sermon (Dhammachakra Pravartana).
• Kushinagar (Uttar Pradesh): Mahaparinirvana (death).
• About the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC)
• It was founded in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi.
• The IBC is the world’s first organization that brings together Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions across 39 countries and over 320 member bodies. 
• Mission: Embed Buddhist values into global conversations and foster harmony, the IBC upholds a vision of unity, compassion, and spiritual dialogue.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.
• Governing Structure: Includes both monastic and lay participation, truly reflecting the principle of collective responsibility in preserving and propagating the Buddha Dhamma.
• Source: TH

Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation in Andhra Pradesh

Syllabus: GS3/Environment

Context

• The officials of the Wildlife Management Authority and Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary have conserved nearly 20,000 eggs of Olive Ridley Turtles on Hope Island in the Kakinada Bay.

About Olive Ridley Turtles

• The olive ridley gets its name from the olive green color of its heart-shaped shell.
• These are carnivores and feed mainly on jellyfish, shrimp etc.
• Distribution: Olive ridleys are found throughout the world primarily in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans.
• Major nesting sites in India are located along the coasts of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu including Rushikulya rookery coast (Odisha) and Gahirmatha beach (Bhitarkanika National park).
• Features: They are known for their unique mass nesting called Arribada, where thousands of females come together on the same beach to lay eggs.
• Conservation Status: 
• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
• CITES Appendix I
• Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• olive ridley turtles
• Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
• It is India’s second-largest mangrove forest, located near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh.
• The sanctuary lies in the Godavari estuarine region, where the Godavari River meets the Bay of Bengal.
• Keystone Species: Fishing cat, smooth-coated otter, and golden jackal.
• Hope Island
• Hope Island (Krachchu Lanka) is a small tadpole shaped Island situated off the coast of Kakinada. 
• It is formed from the sediment outflow carried by the waters of the Koringa River, a distributary of the Godavari.
• It is one of the safe nesting grounds of Olive Ridley Turtles in Andhra Pradesh.
• Source: TH

Khelo India Tribal Games

Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Context

• The inaugural edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) is being held in Chhattisgarh, across three host cities—Raipur, Jagdalpur and Sarguja.
• The Games are being conducted over a ten-day period.

About

• It is the first national multi-sport event under the Khelo India programme dedicated exclusively to tribal athletes.
• The Games feature seven medal sports- athletics, football, hockey, weightlifting, archery, swimming and wrestling- along with demonstration events such as mallakhamb and kabaddi.
• Over 60,000 athletes from 30 states and UTs will play for 338 medals in the Games.
• The Games serve as a platform for talent identification, with a dedicated Talent Identification and Development committee (TIDC) deployed to scout promising athletes for further training and development under the Khelo India framework.
• Mascot: The official mascot is Morveer, derived from Chhattisgarhi words Mor (our own) and Veer (bravery).
• National Level Competitions Under Khelo India Scheme
• Khelo India Youth Games
• Khelo India University Games
• Khelo India Para Games
• Khelo India Winter Games
• Khelo India Beach Games
• Source: PIB

Tunguska Air Defence Missile System

Syllabus: GS3/Defence

Context

• The Ministry of Defence has signed contracts for the procurement of the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System.

About

• The Tunguska is a Soviet-origin (Inducted in early 1980s), tracked, self-propelled air defence system designed to protect ground forces from low-flying aerial threats.
• Upgraded variants: 2K22M, 2K22M1 with improved fire control and missile capability.
• NATO designation: SA-19 “Grison.”
• It uniquely combines missiles and guns on a single platform.
• Key Features
• Hybrid System: Integrates surface-to-air missiles with twin 30 mm autocannons, effective against helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles.
• Missiles:
• 9M311 series
• Range: 8–10 km
• Altitude: up to 3,500 m
• Guidance: Radio command
• Autocannons:
• Fire rate: 3,900–5,000 rounds/min
• Radar & Tracking: 360° target acquisition radar with detection range up to 18 km.
• Source: ET

Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle

Syllabus: GS3/Environment

Context

• Once a jewel of the Ganga, the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle now survives in a rapidly shrinking habitat.

About Red-crowned roofed turtle 

• Scientific Name: Batagur kachuga
• Genus: Batagur (one of three large freshwater species in India).
• Habitat: Beyond India, Bangladesh and Nepal hold only marginal habitat, with no confirmed wild populations.
• Diet: Primarily herbivorous; helps regulate aquatic vegetation and maintain nutrient cycling, supporting balanced freshwater ecosystems.
• Threats: Rampant harvest of adults and eggs, illegal trade, and habitat degradation.
• Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List); protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; listed in Appendix I of CITES.
• Do you Know?
• The Indian Turtle Conservation Program, supported by Namami Gange and the Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan forest departments, works to restore the species’ former glory.
• red-crowned roofed turtle

M e-DRIVE Scheme

Syllabus: GS3/Environment

Context

• The government has revised the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme to set new deadlines and unit caps for e-scooters and e-rickshaws.

Revision of the Scheme

• The Ministry of Heavy Industries has extended subsidies for electric two-wheelers till 31 July 2026, and for electric rickshaw and electric carts till 31 March 2028.
• The maximum ex-factory price to avail an incentive is capped at ₹1.5 lakh for electric two-wheelers and ₹2.5 lakh for electric three-wheelers (e-rickshaws and e-carts).

About PM E-DRIVE Scheme

• The scheme was launched in 2024 by The Ministry of Heavy Industry.
• The scheme duration was from October, 2024 till 31st March, 2026 and is now extended to March 31, 2028.
• The EMPS-2024 (Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme) was also subsumed under the PM E-DRIVE scheme.
• The PM E-DRIVE scheme is proposed to be implemented through the following components:
• Subsidies: Demand Incentives for e-2W, e-3W, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories.
• Grants for creation of capital assets: e-buses, establishment of network of charging stations & upgradation of testing agencies of MHI, and;
• Administration of the Scheme including IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities and fee for project management agency (PMA).
• The following categories of vehicles are eligible for support:
• Buses (only electric buses) (e-bus);
• Three-Wheelers (electric) including registered e-rickshaws & e-carts and L5 (e-3W);
• Two wheelers (electric) – e-2W;
• e-ambulances (electric, plug in hybrid & strong hybrid); and
• e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories (to be notified subsequently).
• Charging Stations: The scheme addresses range anxiety of EV buyers by promoting in a big way the installation of electric vehicle public charging stations (EVPCS). 

What are Electric Vehicles?

• An electric vehicle (EV) operates on an electric motor, instead of an internal-combustion engine that generates power by burning a mix of fuel and gases.
• They are seen as a possible replacement for current-generation automobiles in order to address the issue of rising pollution, global warming, depleting natural resources, etc.

Government Initiatives

• National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (2020) and FAME-I: NEMMP was brought into effect to accelerate the adoption and production of electric vehicles (EVs).
• As part of this mission, the FAME India Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) was implemented from 2015 to 2019 to encourage the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.
• FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) — Phase II: Launched in 2019, the scheme focuses on increasing EV adoption, expanding the e-bus network, and strengthening the charging infrastructure.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry in India (PLI-Auto): Launched in 2021, the scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing of Advanced Automotive Technologies (AAT).
• Major players like Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have stepped up with significant EV production investments. 
• A key mandate is that companies must ensure at least 50% domestic value addition (DVA) to qualify for incentives.
• Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India 2024 (SPMEPCI): To draw global automakers to invest, the scheme grants approved applicants a five-year window to import Completely Built-in Units (CBUs) of electric four-wheelers (e-4W) valued at a minimum CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of USD 35,000 at a significantly reduced customs duty of 15%.
• India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI): NITI Aayog unveiled the India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI) in 2025. It is designed to track, measure, and compare how States and Union Territories are progressing on their electric mobility ambitions.
• Based on these results, regions are ranked as frontrunners with thriving ecosystems; Delhi, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh are leading as ‘Frontrunners’ in the recent IEMI score.
• PM e-Bus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) Scheme: It was notified in 2024, aims to support deployment of more than 38,000 electric buses.
• The objective of the scheme is to provide payment security to e-bus operators in case of default by Public Transport Authorities (PTAs).
• Source: TH

Birsa Munda

Syllabus: GS1/ Modern History

Context

• The Vice-President of India visited the birthplace of Birsa Munda in Jharkhand.

About

• Birsa Munda was born on 15th November 1875 in Ulihatu of the erstwhile Bengal Presidency (present day Jharkhand) .
• He was a legendary Indian tribal freedom fighter, religious leader, and folk hero from the Munda tribe. 
• Birsait religion: He founded a new religion called “Birsait“ and declared himself as God’s messenger. He believed in One God. 
• People of Munda and Oraon community joined the sect and challenged British conversion activities of tribals.
• He was referred to as  ‘Dharti Abba or Father of Earth’ by his followers.
• Munda Rebellion: It was the tribal movement led by Birsa Munda against the oppressions of the British Raj and local exploiters (Dikus).
• It is also referred to as ‘Ulgulan’ or the ‘Great Tumult’.
• In 1900 he was arrested in Jamkopai forest and passed away in custody (due to cholera).
• Outcome: The British government introduced the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act in 1908, to prohibit the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals (Dikus).
• Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: Observed on November 15 since 2021 to honor his legacy.
• Source: HT

Zojila Pass

Syllabus: GS1/Geography

Context

• An avalanche at the Zojila Pass claimed multiple lives, raising concerns over traffic management and safety protocols on this high-risk mountain highway.
• An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, such as a hill or mountain.

 Zojila Pass 

• It is one of the most critical and challenging high-altitude passes in the world.
• It is  located at 3,528 metres in Jammu and Kashmir.
• It  is a vital link between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
• It is  known for its strategic importance and stunning Himalayan scenery. 

Zojila Tunnel Project

• It is an under-construction tunnel situated at an altitude of 11,578 ft (around 3,500 metres) on the Srinagar-Leh Highway in Jammu and Kashmir.
• It will be India’s longest road tunnel, and Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel.
• Source: AIR

Saraswati Samman 2025

Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Context

• Bengali Novel Hara Parbati Katha by Author Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay has been selected for Saraswati Samman, 2025.

About

• The Saraswati Samman, instituted by the K.K. Birla Foundation in 1991, is an annual award given to outstanding literary work written in any Indian language by an Indian citizen and published during the last 10 years. 
• The awardee will be given 15 lakh rupees, a citation and a plaque.
• Source: AIR

Cabinet Approves India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (2031-2035)

Syllabus: GS3/  Environment

Context

• The Union Cabinet approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2031–2035 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement.

What are Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)?

• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are country-specific climate action plans submitted under the Paris Agreement.
• They outline targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
• NDCs are revised periodically to enhance ambition.

Guiding Principles of India’s NDC:

• India’s NDC is based on the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC). The approach emphasises equity and climate justice.
• India’s NDC balances developmental needs, energy security, and climate commitments.

Key Targets in NDC 3.0 (2031-2035)

• Emissions Intensity Reduction: India has committed to reducing the emissions intensity (CO₂ per unit of GDP) of its GDP by 47% by 2035 from 2005 levels.
• India has already reduced its emissions intensity by about 36% between 2005 and 2020.
• Expansion of Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity: India has committed to achieving 60% of its installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2035.
• India has already achieved more than 52% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2026, ahead of its earlier target.
• Creation of Carbon Sink: India has committed to creating a carbon sink of 3.5 to 4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forest and tree cover by 2035.

Challenges in Achieving India’s NDC Targets

• Technology and Innovation Gaps: Critical technologies such as Green hydrogen, Battery storage, Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) are still costly and not commercially scalable.
• India remains dependent on imports for critical minerals and advanced technologies.
• Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Coal continues to dominate India’s energy mix due to affordability and energy security concerns. Non-fossil capacity exceeds 50%, but actual electricity generation share remains much lower (~25%), reflecting structural dependence.
• Infrastructure Pressure: India is undergoing rapid urbanisation, with cities contributing a large share of emissions.
• Infrastructure demand (housing, transport, industry) increases carbon footprint.
• Major Government Initiatives for Achieving NDC Targets
• PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to promote rooftop solar in households and reduce fossil fuel-based electricity consumption.
• PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) promotes solar pumps and decentralised solar plants, reducing diesel use in agriculture.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors and position India as a global green hydrogen hub.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes support domestic manufacturing of solar modules, batteries, and electric vehicles.
• Green Energy Corridor Project strengthens transmission infrastructure for renewable energy integration.
• The National Afforestation Programme enhances forest cover to create carbon sinks.

Way Ahead

• India should enhance climate finance mobilisation through green bonds, blended finance, and increased private sector participation, while actively seeking global climate finance.
• India must invest in research and innovation in emerging technologies such as Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS), hydrogen, and storage solutions.
• India needs to gradually reduce coal dependence through a phased and just transition strategy that protects jobs and regional economies.
• Source: PIB

Paternity Leave

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context

• The Supreme Court called on the Union government to examine the need for a formal law recognising paternity leave for all fathers, adoptive or biological.
• The Court observed that the duration of the leave must be determined to suit the needs of both the parents and the child.

About

• Paternity leave is leave granted to a male employee (father) to take care of his newborn or adopted child and support the mother after childbirth.
• India does not have a universal paternity leave law.
• However, under the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972 male government employees are entitled to 15 days of paternity leave, which they can take within six months of their child’s birth or adoption.
• The Supreme Court of India in 2026 urged the government to:
• Enact a dedicated law on paternity leave.
• Recognize it as a social security benefit.
• Countries like Sweden, Iceland and Germany provide paid parental leaves.
• Significance
• It challenges the stereotype that childcare is solely a mother’s responsibility.
• Encourages shared parenting roles.
• Reduces physical and emotional burden on mothers after childbirth.
• Ensures better newborn care.
• Strengthens parent-child bonding.
• Makes workplaces more inclusive and progressive.

Gold Prices Fall Amid Crisis

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

Context

• Gold prices have declined sharply despite the outbreak of a major conflict in West Asia in February 2026.

Why Gold Traditionally Rises During Crises? 

• Safe Haven Demand: Gold is considered a reliable store of value during periods of uncertainty such as wars, financial crises, and inflationary shocks.
• Low Interest Rate Environment: Gold does not generate interest or dividends.
• When interest rates fall, returns on bonds and deposits decline, making gold relatively more attractive.

Key Factors Driving the Current Fall in Gold Prices

• Rising Oil Prices and Inflation Concerns: The West Asian conflict has disrupted oil supply, pushing crude prices above $100 per barrel. Higher oil prices have increased global inflationary pressures.
• Shift in Monetary Policy Expectations: Markets now expect central banks to maintain higher interest rates for a longer period.
• Higher interest rates increase returns on fixed-income instruments such as government bonds.
• Opportunity Cost of Holding Gold: As interest-bearing assets become more attractive, investors shift away from gold, which offers no yield.

Key Facts

• Top Global Producers (2024–25): China, Australia, Russia.
• India’s Position:
• Production: Extremely low,  less than 1% of global production.
• Consumption: Second largest consumer of gold globally.
• Gold Reserves in India: Bihar, Rajasthan, and Karnataka.
• Key Mining Areas in India:
• Karnataka is the leading gold-producing state in India. Major mining sites include Hutti Gold Mines and Kolar Gold Fields (closed in 2001).
• Jharkhand: Gold is found in alluvial form in the Subarnarekha River basin.

Nikul Tests 3D-Printed ‘Agnite’ Booster Engine

Syllabus: GS3/ S&T

In News

• Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos recently announced the successful test of its 3D-printed booster engine, named ‘Agnite’.

About

• Agnite is a single-piece 3D-printed booster engine developed for the booster stage of Agnibaan launch vehicles.
• The engine is designed to reduce production complexity and turnaround time for space missions.
• Unlike conventional booster engines made of thousands of parts, Agnite is built as a single-piece architecture.
• It can reportedly be fully printed within a week, making manufacturing significantly faster.
• The engine is made of Inconel, a high-performance alloy commonly used in high-temperature aerospace applications.
• Source: TOI

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Context

• The 16th annual edition of the QS World University Rankings by Subject has been recently published.

About QS World University Rankings by Subject

• QS Quacquarelli Symonds is a London-based higher education analytics firm.
• It ranks universities not overall, but specifically for 55 individual subjects giving a more granular picture of academic excellence.
• The 55 subjects are grouped into five broad areas — Arts and Humanities, Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences and Medicine, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences and Management.
• IIT-ISM Dhanbad (Indian School of Mines) has ranked 21st globally in Mineral and Mining Engineering & IIM Ahmedabad has featured as India’s top-ranked institution in both Business and Management Studies and Marketing.
• Source: TH

IIED Food Security Index

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

In News

• A new study by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) has found that India is among the large economies most vulnerable to worsening food insecurity under rising global temperatures.

Key Highlights

• India’s Position:
• India’s baseline score in the new Food Security Index is 5.31, significantly below the global average of 6.74.
• It is behind countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Indonesia, indicating structural weaknesses in its food system.
• Impact of Rising Temperatures:
• India’s score is projected to decline further to:
• 4.96 at 1.5°C warming
• 4.52 at 2°C warming.
• This means that climate change (long-term rise in global temperatures and weather instability) could increasingly reduce access to adequate food.