T10 Daily Current Affairs

Loss of Groundwater Shifting Earth's Axis

• Key Findings: Excessive groundwater extraction shifted Earth's rotational pole by 80 cm between 1993–2010, causing a 0.24-inch rise in sea levels.
• Mechanism: Redistribution of Earth's mass due to aquifer depletion led to these changes.
• Implications: Highlights the impact of human activities on Earth's physical systems and challenges existing climate models.

Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and India

• Aim: Eliminates chemical weapons by prohibiting their development, production, and use; India is an original signatory.
• Implementation: Overseen by OPCW globally, while India ensures compliance through the National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC).
• Significance: Strengthens global peace efforts, as evidenced by OPCW receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.

Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign

• Objective: Aims to reduce child marriage rates below 5% by 2029, targeting high-burden districts across seven states.
• Platform: Introduced an online portal for reporting child marriage incidents and accessing support.
• Status: Child marriage has decreased from 47.4% (2005-06) to 26.8% (2015-16), but challenges persist in poorer households.

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Agreement

• Resolution: Based on UNSC Resolution 1701, mandates withdrawal of armed groups south of the Litani River.
• Key Players: Israel, Lebanon, Hezbollah, and UN peacekeeping forces (UNIFIL).
• Significance: Restores peace in the region after a 13-month border conflict.

PM E-DRIVE Scheme Phase II

• Subsidy Structure: Provides ₹5,000/kWh incentives for electric three-wheelers until March 2026, capped at ₹50,000 per vehicle.
• Objective: Promotes EV adoption and charging infrastructure development with a fund allocation of ₹715 crore.
• Components: Includes incentives for EV purchase, charging stations, and testing facility upgrades.

OPCW Hague Award 2024

• Awarded to: Indian Chemical Council for contributions to chemical safety and compliance with CWC.

Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024

• India's Rank: 49th globally, with the theme "Building a Digital Tomorrow."
• Focus: Emphasizes public-private collaboration in digital infrastructure development.

Sabal 20 Logistics Drone

• Use: Delivered to the Indian Army, capable of carrying 20 kg over rugged terrains using tandem rotor technology.

Solar Projects in Indo-Pacific

• Partnership: India collaborates with ISA for solar projects in Fiji, Seychelles, Comoros, and Madagascar.
• Support: Funded with $2 million for implementation.

Nanozymes

• Description: Nano-materials mimicking enzymes, used in biosensing, drug delivery, and environmental remediation.

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Contributions

• Legacy: Advocated for religious freedom, fought superstitions, and founded Anandpur Sahib.

E-Daakhil Portal

• Purpose: Simplifies consumer grievance redressal by enabling online filing of complaints.

UNAIDS World AIDS Day Report 2024

• Data: Reports 39.9 million people living with HIV globally, with 9.3 million lacking treatment.

Tomato Grand Challenge (TGC)

• Objective: Seeks innovative solutions for stabilizing tomato supply chains under the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Operation Greens

• Goal: Addresses price volatility of tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, now extended to other crops.

Loss and Damage Fund (LDF)

• Objective: Established at COP27 and operationalized at COP28, it provides grants and concessional financing for climate-vulnerable nations.
• Significance: Addresses economic (e.g., livelihood loss) and non-economic (e.g., cultural loss) impacts of climate change.
• Challenges: Balancing donor-recipient interests, sustainable funding mechanisms, and defining "loss and damage."

Design Law Treaty (DLT)

• Adoption: Protects industrial designs globally, empowering startups and SMEs with simplified, cost-effective registration processes.
• Key Features: Allows multi-design applications, e-filing systems, and a 12-month grace period for design disclosures.
• Impact: Enhances business competitiveness and integrates design protection with traditional cultural expressions.

National Landslide Risk Mitigation (NLRM)

• Focus: Approved for 15 states to prevent landslides using GIS mapping, early warning systems, and hazard zonation.
• Prevention Measures: Combines structural (e.g., retaining walls) and non-structural (e.g., land use regulation) approaches.
• Coordination: Promotes collaboration between NDMA, GSI, and state disaster authorities.

Mission Shukrayaan (Venus Orbiter Mission)

• Objective: Explores Venus's atmosphere, topography, and solar interaction while testing advanced aero-braking and thermal management.
• Payloads: Features 16 Indian and international collaborative instruments for comprehensive scientific research.
• Significance: Aims to deepen understanding of greenhouse effects and planetary evolution.

Biofloc Technology (BFT) and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)

• BFT: Uses beneficial microbes to maintain water quality and convert waste into fish feed.
• RAS: Recirculates water through filtration systems for sustainable and controlled aquaculture.
• Advantages: Reduces environmental impact and enhances productivity.

Surface Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology (SHKT)

• Objective: Generates electricity from flowing water's kinetic energy without requiring large dams.
• Significance: Cost-effective and ideal for remote locations with no grid connectivity.

Pennaiyar River

• Other Name: Known as Dakshina Pinakini in Kannada, it flows through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• Significance: Frequently subject to interstate water-sharing disputes.

National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-24)

• Organized by: Indian Coast Guard in Kochi to enhance regional collaboration in search and rescue operations.
• Focus: Improves response capabilities for large-scale contingencies.

Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki Campaign

• Objective: Aims to combat gender-based violence through grassroots awareness programs under DAY-NRLM.
• Implementation: Established 227 Gender Resource Centers across 13 states.

India’s First Indigenous Antibiotic Nafithromycin

• Use: Tackles antimicrobial resistance, specifically drug-resistant bacterial pneumonia.
• Brand Name: Marketed as "Miqnaf," it offers a safer, faster, and more effective treatment option.

Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2024

• Milk Production: Reached 239.3 million tonnes, making India the global leader in milk production.
• Egg Production: Reached 142.77 billion, with Andhra Pradesh as the top contributor.

Rashtriya Gokul Mission

• Objective: Conserves and improves indigenous bovine breeds through advanced breeding technologies.
• Significance: Promotes the dairy sector for livelihood generation and food security.

Natural Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

• Scope: Targets 15,000 clusters and 7.5 lakh hectares over two years, focusing on chemical-free, bio-input farming.
• Infrastructure Support: Plans 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centers and model farms for training.
• Monitoring and Certification: Includes geo-tagged monitoring and simple certification for market access.

Declaration on Green Digital Action (GDA)

• Climate Action through Technology: Promotes digital tools for climate resilience and disaster management.
• Metrics Development: Establishes metrics to measure the climate impact of digitization.
• Innovation Focus: Encourages open access technologies and investments in green digital solutions.

Global Peatland Hotspot Atlas, 2024

• Carbon Storage: Peatlands store 550 gigatonnes of carbon, critical for mitigating climate change.
• Threats: Degradation from agriculture and industrial activities causes 4% of global emissions.
• Conservation: Supported by international guidelines and UN resolutions.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) 2.0

• Objective: Enhances India's innovation ecosystem with a ₹2,750 crore budget till 2028.
• Key Initiatives: Focuses on vernacular innovation, global collaborations, and industrial accelerators.
• Achievements: Builds on AIM 1.0, which established 10,000 Tinkering Labs and numerous incubation centers.

Right to Be Forgotten

• Legal Basis: Recognized as part of the right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• Scope: Allows individuals to remove their digital footprint if it violates privacy rights.
• Challenges: Lacks a comprehensive statutory framework in India.

Samvidhan Diwas and Preamble Additions

• Constitutional Development: SC upheld the addition of "socialist" and "secular" in the Preamble via the 42nd Amendment.
• Judicial Observations: Recognized secularism as a basic feature of the Constitution.
• Historical Significance: Celebrates the Constitution’s adoption on 26th November 1949.

One Nation One Subscription (ONOS)

• Description: Provides access to scholarly research for over 6,300 institutions via a unified digital platform.
• Budget: Allocated ₹6,000 crore for 2025-27, administered by the Ministry of Education.

Narasapur Crochet Lace GI Tag

• Significance: Recognizes intricate lacework from Andhra Pradesh made with cotton threads.

Kanaganahalli and Sannati

• Features: Ancient Buddhist sites in Karnataka featuring a 2000-year-old Ashokan edict.
• Art Style: Showcase Amaravati-style art with sculptures of Buddha and Mauryan emperors.

Reang Tribe

• Description: A PVTG in Tripura practicing Jhum cultivation and known for the Hojagiri dance.
• Culture: Majority follow Vaishnavism and seek recognition for their Kaubru language.

Black Thrips Infestation

• Impact: An invasive pest causing yield losses in chilli crops in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
• Preventive Measures: Include intercropping and neem oil spraying.

PAN 2.0 Project

• Objective: Aims to streamline taxpayer registration through technology-driven processes.
• Integration: Serves as a common identifier for specified government systems.

Global Matchmaking Platform for Industrial Decarbonization

• Decarbonization Support: Launched by UNIDO and Climate Club to assist developing nations in adopting energy-efficient, low-carbon technologies.
• Industrial Emissions Focus: Addresses emissions in energy-intensive sectors, contributing to global net-zero goals by 2050.
• International Cooperation: Provides technical and financial assistance to align with global sustainability standards.

Education for Climate Action

• Climate Impact on Learning: Climate change causes school closures, disrupting an average of 11 instructional days annually in low-income nations.
• Green Skilling Needs: Reskilling needed for 78 million jobs; upskilling for 100 million new positions for global green transitions.
• Recommendations: Promote climate education, STEM learning, and resilient education systems to tackle climate challenges.

UNHCR Global Appeal 2025

• Appeal for Funding: UNHCR seeks $10 billion to address needs of 117.3 million forcibly displaced people.
• Global Refugee Crisis: Drivers include conflicts, persecution, and climate change, with children making up 40% of those affected.
• Support Mechanisms: Frameworks like the Global Compact on Refugees and Global Refugee Forum aid in sustainable solutions.

Treaty on Crimes Against Humanity

• Global Framework: UNGA advances a treaty to prosecute crimes like genocide, torture, and systematic persecution.
• Victim Support: Incorporates crimes into national legal systems for justice and rehabilitation.
• Cooperation Needs: Enhances cross-border collaboration and legal assistance to combat crimes.

COP29 and Climate Finance Goals

• NCQG Adoption: Targets $1.3 trillion in climate finance by 2035 for clean energy transitions in developing nations.
• India’s Opposition: Criticized inadequate commitments and lack of inclusivity in decision-making.
• Adaptation Goals: Introduced the Baku Adaptation Roadmap to enhance disaster resilience.

Guidelines for Persons with Disabilities

• Inclusive Posts: Ensures representation for individuals with at least 40% disability in suitable positions.
• Promotions Reserved: Identified posts ensure career progression for individuals with disabilities.
• Committee Oversight: Ministries tasked with assessing roles for inclusivity and accessibility.

Project Veer Gatha

• Objective: Joint initiative by Defence and Education Ministries to instill patriotism in students through gallantry awardees' stories.

India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement

• Objective: Aims to attract $100 billion in foreign investments and create 1 million jobs by 2039.

Baku Climate Unity Pact

• Focus: Climate finance, adaptation goals, and collaborative mitigation strategies with emphasis on localized solutions.

Raja Raja Chola

• Achievements: Expanded Chola power via naval dominance, annexation of Sri Lanka, and construction of Brihadeeswara Temple in 1010 CE.

Quantum Tunneling

• Breakthrough: Controlled atom transfer via quantum tunneling using laser traps highlights advancements in quantum physics.

International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

• Event: Hosted in India for the first time in 130 years, emphasizing "Sahkar Se Samriddhi" (prosperity through cooperation).

ASEAN-India Trade Agreement

• Objective: Strengthens trade ties with ASEAN, which accounts for 11% of India's global trade.

UNESCO Sites in Lebanon

• Significance: Baalbek, Tyre, and Anjar showcase Roman architecture, Phoenician legacy, and Umayyad city planning but face threats.

Telecommunications (Cyber Security) Rules, 2024

• Key Terms Defined: Includes Telecom Cyber Security, Telecommunication Entity, and Security Incident.
• Data Collection & Sharing: Government can seek and share traffic data from telecom entities.
• Cybersecurity Obligations:
  • Individuals: Restricted from sending messages that harm telecom cybersecurity.
  • Entities: Must adopt cybersecurity policies, establish Security Operations Centers (SOCs), and appoint Chief Telecommunication Security Officers (CTSOs).
• Incident Reporting: Must report security incidents to the government within six hours.

Udyam Portal for MSMEs

• Growth: Registered MSMEs increased from 2.33 crore (Aug 2023) to 5.49 crore, creating 23.14 crore jobs (5.23 crore for women).
• Significance: Contributes 30% to GDP and 46% to exports, promotes regional development, and supports diversification.
• Government Initiatives: Collateral-free loans, revised classification criteria, and Public Procurement Policy mandating 25% procurement from MSMEs.
• Challenges: Limited formalization, credit access, technology adoption, and infrastructure bottlenecks.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Trade

• Challenges: Regulation fragmentation, industry concentration, and data governance issues.
• Opportunities: Boosts global trade growth, automates processes, and transforms services trade.
• India's Position: Highlights innovation capabilities through startups and the gig economy.

Gig Economy in India

• Status: 77 lakh workers in 2020-21, expected to grow to 2.35 crore by 2029-30.
• Opportunities: Growing informal economy, rising middle-class demands, and diverse services.
• Challenges: Lack of social security, legal clarity, and potential exploitation.
• Government Steps: Code on Social Security (2020), e-Shram Portal, and ONDC for digital commerce.

Compressed Biogas (CBG)

• Launch: India’s first modern gaushala with a CBG plant inaugurated in Gwalior.
• Composition: Methane (>90%) derived from organic waste.
• Uses: Green fuel similar to CNG.
• Policy Support: Includes SATAT and GOBAR-DHAN schemes.

Regenerative Agriculture

• Key Principles: Minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing crop diversity, maintaining soil cover, and integrating livestock.
• Significance: Improves yields, water retention, and reduces soil erosion and greenhouse gas emissions.

SEA VIGIL 24

• Objective: Enhancing maritime and coastal security.
• Coverage: Entire coastline (11,098 km) and Exclusive Economic Zone.
• Focus Areas: Security of maritime assets, inter-agency coordination, and community engagement.

Russia’s Revised Nuclear Doctrine

• Expanded Definition: Includes non-nuclear state aggression supported by nuclear states as nuclear attack.
• Lowered Threshold: Aimed at protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Belarus: Brought under Russia’s nuclear umbrella.
• Risks: Heightened escalation and weakening of non-proliferation efforts.

Internationalization of Rupee

• Key Steps: Promotes Rupee invoicing, trade settlement, and Special Vostro Accounts.
• Advantages: Reduces dependence on foreign reserves and lowers exchange risks.
• Challenges: Includes currency fluctuations and exposure to global shocks.
• Trade Partners: Agreements with countries like Japan and Sri Lanka to facilitate trade.

Climate Change and Health (WHO Report at COP-29)

• Impacts: Heat stress, non-communicable diseases, and maternal health issues.
• Indirect Effects: Poverty, food insecurity, and displacement (20.3 million displaced in 2023).
• Recommendations: One Health approach and climate finance integration.
• Focus: Health in National Action Plans and climate policies.

Global Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Assessment

• Emissions: Rose 40% since 1980, primarily from agriculture.
• Environmental Impact: A potent greenhouse gas contributing to ozone depletion and global warming.
• Measures: Use of better fertilizers, renewable energy, and multilateral cooperation.
• Warning: Limiting warming to 1.5°C is implausible without intervention.

Fisheries Sector in India

• Economic Role: Provides livelihood for 3 crore people, contributing 1% to GDP.
• Initiatives: Include IUU fishing control and Marine Fisheries Census.
• Global Standing: India is the second-largest fish producer globally.
• Focus Areas: Sustainable aquaculture and value-chain development.

Bharat NCX 2024 (Cyber Security Exercise)

• Objective: Strengthen India’s cybersecurity resilience through immersive training.
• Organizers: NSCS and Rashtriya Raksha University.

Megalithic Culture

• Recent Discovery: Rock carvings in Kerala from the Iron Age.
• Practices: Known for large stone burial sites and agricultural economy.
• Key Sites: Adichanallur and Kodumanal.
• Culture: Practiced animism and crafted pottery and metalwork.

Piezoelectric Materials

• Innovation: Peptide-based materials for energy harvesting and biodevices.
• Function: Generate electric charge under mechanical stress.
• Applications: Used in sensors, actuators, and medical devices.
• Advancements: Enhanced sensitivity through nanostructuring.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) - Rural

• Launch & Aim: Started in 2016 to provide housing for economically weaker sections.
• Progress: 2.67 crore houses completed by November 2024; 74% owned by women (solely or jointly).
• Features: ₹1.2–1.3 lakh financial aid; toilets under Swachh Bharat Mission; LPG under Ujjwala Scheme.
• Extension: Target of 2 crore additional houses with ₹3.06 lakh crore outlay till 2029.

Cloud Seeding

• Concept: Uses chemicals like silver iodide to enhance rainfall by dispersing in clouds.
• Advantages: Regulates weather, reduces pollutants, and supports agriculture.
• Challenges: High cost (~₹1 lakh/km²), chemical risks, and limited research data.
• Delhi Context: Proposed for air pollution control amid deteriorating air quality.

Eastern Maritime Corridor (Chennai-Vladivostok)

• Route: Connects Chennai to Vladivostok via Sea of Japan and South China Sea (10,300 km).
• Benefits: Cuts transit time by 16 days, reduces logistics costs, and boosts India’s maritime vision.
• Strategic Role: Counters Chinese dominance and strengthens Pacific trade ties.
• Complementary Corridors: IMEEC and INSTC enhance regional connectivity.

Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) in India

• Definition: Applies a gender lens to budget allocation and policies.
• Framework: Part A for women-specific schemes; Part B for gender-inclusive initiatives.
• Challenges: Lack of disaggregated data and exclusion of key programs.
• Recommendations: Sectoral monitoring, integration in budget prioritization, and adoption at state levels.

India-CARICOM Summit

• Pillars: Acronym “CARICOM” for Capacity Building, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Innovation, and more.
• Significance: Partnerships in multilateral forums, defense exports, and South-South cooperation.
• Focus Areas: Disaster resilience, climate action, and trade.
• CARICOM: A 21-country Caribbean bloc fostering regional cooperation.

UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children 2024 Report

• Global Trends: Demographic shifts, climate risks, and digital divide impact children.
• India's Context: Projected to have 350 million children by 2050; ranks 26th in the Children’s Climate Risk Index.
• Challenges: Internet access disparity (26% in low-income vs. 95% in high-income countries).
• Recommendations: Climate resilience in planning, renewables, and child-centric policies for digital safety.

Bhu-Neer Portal

• Objective: Regulate and manage groundwater resources at state and national levels.
• Developed by: Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) with NIC.
• Features: Integrates data for sustainable groundwater use.
• Significance: Supports groundwater conservation and sustainable planning.

Cold Wave and Bomb Cyclone

• Cold Wave: Defined as surface temperatures ≤10°C (plains) or ≤0°C (hills), causing health risks and economic stress.
• Bomb Cyclone: Rapidly intensifying low-pressure weather system causing severe blizzards and thunderstorms.
• Impact: Disruption in vulnerable regions, heating costs, and health emergencies.
• Preparedness: Advisories under NPCCHH and disaster management mechanisms.

Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025

• Ranking: India ranked 10th globally for GHG emissions, renewable energy, and climate policies.
• Key Features: Tracks 63 countries plus the EU.
• Top Performer: Denmark; first three ranks left unfilled.
• Significance: Highlights global progress on climate commitments.

India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan (2025-2029)

• Economic Cooperation: Focus on green technologies, food processing, and pharmaceuticals.
• Energy Transition: Collaboration in Global Biofuels Alliance and International Solar Alliance.
• Defense Ties: Establishment of Joint Defense Consultative meetings and defense manufacturing roadmap.
• Science & Technology: Expansion in AI, digitalization, and launch of Indo-Italian Innovation Exchange Programme.

G20 Rio de Janeiro Declaration

• Theme: "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet."
• Priorities:
  • Social inclusion and hunger eradication via the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
  • Climate action through the Task Force on Climate Change Mobilization.
  • Reform of global governance institutions, including UN Security Council and MDBs.
• Focus: Sustainable development and equitable health access.

Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration

• Aim: Set sectoral methane reduction targets and launch policies to meet them.
• Significance: Organic waste is the third-largest source of methane emissions.
• Platform: Supported by UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC).
• Participation: 35 countries, representing 47% of global methane emissions.

10 Years of Polio Eradication in India

• Status: India was declared polio-free in 2014 after three years of no wild poliovirus transmission.
• Key Measures: National Immunization Days (NID), surveillance at borders, and introduction of Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV).
• Mission Indradhanush: Launched in 2014 to enhance immunization coverage in hard-to-reach areas.
• Global Context: Wild poliovirus Type 1 remains endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS)

• Objective: Develop disaster-resilient infrastructure for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
• Challenges: SIDS face 2.1% GDP loss annually due to disasters, much higher than the global average of 0.3%.
• Significance: Mortality rates in SIDS are double the global average.
• Focus: Sustainable development and disaster mitigation for highly vulnerable nations.

FAO Statistical Yearbook 2024

• Global Trends: Agriculture contributes 4% to global GDP; workforce declined from 40% (2000) to 26% (2022).
• India’s Highlights: Largest irrigated land (76M ha), 2nd in sugar and milk production, and rising women’s participation in agriculture.
• Hunger Levels: Affects 9.1% of the global population, above pre-COVID levels (7.5%).
• Organic Farming: India’s organic farming area (6%) ranks second globally.

African Penguins

• Status: Recently listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN.
• Habitat: Only penguin species in Africa; thrives on sardines and anchovies.

Sanyukt Vimochan 2024

• Event: Multilateral HADR exercise by the Indian Army in Gujarat.
• Participants: Agencies and representatives from 9 friendly foreign nations.

MECHS (Bioplastics)

• Features: Made of engineered E. coli intertwined with fiber matrix, biodegradable and compostable.
• Applications: Self-regenerating materials inspired by nature.

Applications of Genome Sequencing (GS)

• Disease detection: Evaluates rare disorders (e.g., cystic fibrosis, thalassemia).
• Pharmacogenomics: Assesses drug safety & effectiveness using GS data.
• Metagenomics: Identifies species and analyzes environmental impacts.
• Agriculture: Develops disease-resistant, drought-tolerant crops.
• Microbial Sequencing: Advances biofuels, diagnostics, vaccines, and environmental cleanup.

Jeddah Commitments

Adopted at the 4th Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

• One Health AMR learning hub: Focused on sharing best practices and building capabilities for implementing multi-sectoral National Action Plans on AMR.
• Independent Panel for Evidence on Action Against AMR by 2025: To avoid duplication of ongoing efforts.
• National AMR coordinating mechanism: To implement and ensure sustainable financing and monitoring of National Action Plans (NAPs).
• Promotes global data sharing: Platforms include GLASS AMR/AMC, ANIMUSE, and INFARM.
• Adherence to Codex Alimentarius Commission guidelines: Ensures the prudent and responsible use of antimicrobials.

Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

Notified as the 56th Tiger Reserve of India: Located in Chhattisgarh.

GSAT-N2

SpaceX’s Falcon-9 launched India’s GSAT-N2 satellite, a 4,700 kg communication satellite by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO's commercial arm. Due to payload limitations of India’s LVM-3, Falcon-9 was used.

• Orbit: Geosynchronous transfer.
• Lifespan: 14 years.
• Significance: Enhances broadband, in-flight connectivity, and pan-India coverage, including remote regions like Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep.

Quantum Computing Initiatives in India

• National Quantum Mission (2023): To position India as a global leader in quantum technology.
• QUEST Program: Develop quantum research capabilities.
• MeitY QCAL: Access platform for quantum computing researchers.
• QSim Toolkit: Simulates hard-to-access quantum computers.
• BHU Initiative: Quantum-enabled green hydrogen production technology.

Impacts of Microplastics in the Atmosphere

• Rainfall Disruption: Alters droplet formation.
• Global Warming: Modifies clouds’ cooling/warming balance.
• Other Effects: Impairs weather prediction, climate modeling, and aviation safety.

Efforts to Reduce Microplastics

• Global Partnership: Tackles marine litter.
• UN Resolution: Legal framework to end plastic pollution.
• IAEA NUTEC Plastics: Uses nuclear tech to address pollution.
• India: Ban on single-use plastics; KVIC Project REPLAN reduces plastic in nature.

Methane

• Potency: 86x more potent than CO₂; mitigates faster due to short lifespan.
• Sources: 60% from agriculture, fossil fuels, and waste.
• Global Efforts: Global Methane Pledge, Climate & Clean Air Coalition.
• India’s Actions: NICRA, Gobar-Dhan Scheme, National Biogas Program.

Rationalizing Public Distribution System (PDS)

• Leakages: 28% loss of grains; Rs. 69,108 crore financial loss.
• Reforms: Aadhaar-linking, PoS machines.
• Regional Gaps: Higher leakages in NE due to low digitization.
• Recommendations:
  • Target subsidies.
  • Shift to DBT.
  • Modernize Fair Price Shops with food coupons.

Money Laundering/Terror Financing

• Rising Cases: Fraud rose from 13,564 (2022-23) to 36,075 (2023-24).
• Global GDP Loss: $800 billion–$2 trillion/year.
• Risks:
  • Political: Weakens states.
  • Security: Funds terrorism, internal threats.
  • Economic: Disrupts legitimate finance; credit frauds.
  • Social: Fuels crimes and tensions.
• Countermeasures: FATF AML/CFT framework, PMLA 2002, ED, FIU-IND.

Uniform Protection Protocol

• Approved by CEA to ensure grid stability, reliability, and support for integrating 450 GW renewable energy by 2030.

Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana

• Launched in 2024 for free healthcare to seniors (70+); part of AB-PMJAY for universal health coverage.

Lake Kariba

• Largest artificial lake on Zambezi River, between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Tsunami

• Definition: Series of massive waves caused by underwater disturbances like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides.
• Steps Taken by India:
  • ITEWC: Provides tsunami advisories to 25 Indian Ocean countries.
  • Tsunami Buoy System: Real-time data transmission network.
  • INCOIS Tide Gauges: Real-time monitoring along the coast.
  • NDMA Guidelines: Comprehensive management framework.
  • Modeling and Mapping: Early warning for tsunamis and storm surges.

Climate Finance Mechanisms

• Global Environment Facility (1991): Tackles global environmental issues, including climate change.
• Green Climate Fund (2010): Supports developing nations; established at COP 16.
• NCQG: Future financial target post-2025 for climate action.

Terrorism and Organized Crime Linkages

• Financing: Organized crimes fund terrorism (e.g., drug trafficking by Northeast militants).
• Logistics: Organized groups transport terrorists and return foreign fighters (e.g., Moreh and Cox’s Bazaar in the Chittagong Hill Tracts).
• Counterfeit Currency: Terrorists spread fake Indian currency (e.g., in Kashmir).

Countermeasures

• UNTOC (2000): Key instrument against transnational crime.
• FATF: Sets global standards to combat money laundering and terror financing.
• INTERPOL: Coordinates efforts against international crime (196 members).
• UNODC: Fights organized crime, corruption, terrorism, and illicit drugs.

Direct-to-Device Satellite Technology

• Principle: Satellites replace terrestrial cell towers for mobile connectivity.
• NTN Technology: Enables direct communication between devices and satellites.
• BSNL: Uses Viasat’s Geostationary L-band satellites for remote coverage.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Teachings

• Ik Onkar: Belief in one universal God.
• Truthfulness: Advocated truth as life’s highest virtue.
• Social Equality: Opposed caste-based and social discrimination.
• Religion: Warned against using it for material gain.

Modern Relevance

• Equality: Addresses gender/caste discrimination and global conflicts.
• Vaand Chhako: Reduces inequality.
• Kirat Karo: Promotes honesty, reducing corruption.
• Sarbat da Bhala: Advocates for ecological justice.

State Finance Commissions (SFCs)

• Constitution: Article 243I mandates SFC formation post-73rd Amendment.
• Tenure: Every 5 years.
• Mandate: Review Panchayat/Municipality finances, recommend tax distribution, and grants.

Avian Botulism

• Severe neuromuscular disease caused by Clostridium botulinum toxin.

Operation Sagar Manthan

• Launched: By NCB, Indian Navy, and Coast Guard.
• Objective: Target maritime drug trafficking.

Senna Tora

• Origin: Native to Central America; thrives in dry grasslands.
• Threat: Invading open grasslands of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, endangering wildlife.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) – PAIR Programme

• Focus: Transform research in Indian universities.
• Hubs: Top NIRF institutions guide others.
• Spokes: Includes public universities, NITs, IIITs.

Operation Dronagiri & GDI

• Operation Dronagiri: Pilot project to apply geospatial technologies for better governance.
• GDI: Platform for secure spatial data sharing.

'PPP plus PPP' Model for Diabetes Control

• Combines domestic public-private partnerships with international collaborations for healthcare.

CAG Audit on 74th CAA

• Only 4/17 functions fully devolved; financial dependence at 68%.
• Women’s reservation: 50% in 6 states (above 33% mandate).
• 37% average staff vacancies in ULBs.

Recommendations to Ensure Efficacy of 74th CAA

• Ensure effective decentralization by involving ULSGs in key functions like planning and regulation.
• Empower State Election Commissions to conduct timely municipal elections.
• Enhance ULSG financial self-reliance by improving tax collection.
• Develop a strong workforce management system to fill vacant posts in ULSGs.

Ministry of Home Affairs Reimposed AFSPA in Violence-Hit Areas of Manipur

• Disturbed areas can be declared by the Governor, UT administrator, or the Centre when armed forces are needed to assist civil authorities in restoring order.
• Powers & Immunity: Armed forces can open fire, arrest, and search without warrants, with immunity from prosecution unless approved by the central government.
• Concerns: Allegations of misuse, including human rights abuses and sexual violence; applicable in parts of the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir.

AFSPA Case Laws and Committees

• Extra Judicial Execution Victim Families Association Case (2016): The court held that armed forces are not exempt from investigation for misconduct, even in disturbed areas.
• Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy Committee (2004): Recommended the repeal of AFSPA.
• NPMHR Case (1997): Use of force only under strict conditions.
• Santosh Hegde Committee (2013): Regular reviews.
• Verma Committee (2013): Apply criminal law for sexual offenses.

Key Biodiversity Initiatives Approved by NMCG's Executive Committee

• Project for assessing the Environmental flow of the Chambal, Son, Damodar, and Tons rivers.
• Project for Conservation of endangered turtles in the Ganga basin in Uttar Pradesh.
• Deployment of a Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool in the National Chambal Sanctuary.
• Advancing Rescue System for the Protection of Stranded Ganges River Dolphins.
• Dolphin Ambulance: To assist dolphins in distress.

AI-Enabled e-Tarang System

• Defense spectrum planning software by IDS and BISAG-N.

Pinaka Weapon System

• MBRL with precision strikes; range up to 75 km (Pinaka III).
• Exported to Armenia; considered by France.

SC Guidelines on Demolition of Property

• Demolition without due process violates natural justice, due process, and the rule of law.
• Demolitions infringe on fundamental rights, like the Right to Shelter under Article 21.
• A 15-day notice is mandatory for unauthorized construction.

Anti-Trafficking Steps in India

• Legal Framework: Prajwala vs. Union case, ITPA 1956, Article 23.
• Administrative Measures: MHA anti-trafficking units, MoUs with countries.
• International Obligations: Ratified UNCTOC; BNS includes trafficking offenses.

Key Changes in the RBI’s Currency Policy

• Since late 2022, the RBI has actively intervened in the forex market, reducing rupee-dollar volatility to 1.9% (April 2023–August 2024) from the previous average of 5% (1991–2020).
• The RBI’s direct actions, rather than free-market forces, now primarily stabilize the rupee’s exchange rate, resembling a pegged system and raising concerns over export competitiveness and transparency.
• Pegging distorts market signals, potentially makes exports costlier, and risks market trust, contrasting with the benefits of India’s previous flexible exchange rate policy that promoted stability and competitiveness naturally.

Impact of Trump’s Presidency on Global Agreements and India's Adaptation

• Trump’s administration withdrew the US from major multilateral agreements (Paris Agreement, TPP, WHO) and strained global trade frameworks (WTO, US-China trade war), challenging norms and weakening multilateralism.
• His “America First” approach prioritized US national interests, reducing US leadership in global governance and shifting focus from multilateral to bilateral or regional agreements.
• In response, India has adapted by strengthening bilateral trade, joining smaller coalitions (e.g., Quad, Artemis Accords), and investing in independent energy and tech solutions to counterbalance the decline in multilateral cooperation.

Municipal Finances

• Low Revenue: MCs contribute only 0.6% of GDP.
• Reliance on Transfers: High dependence on state/central grants.
• Increased Borrowings: Municipal borrowings rose significantly from 2019-2024.
• Bonds: Municipal bonds total ₹4,204 crore, mostly privately placed.

RBI Recommendations

• Revenue Enhancement: Reform property taxes, rationalize user charges.
• State Transfers: Ensure timely and predictable transfers.
• Cost Efficiency: Digitalization, PPPs in transport, waste, renewable energy.
• Innovative Financing: Use municipal and green bonds.
• Transparency: Implement National Municipal Accounting Manual practices.

D-SIBs and Financial Terms

• D-SIBs: SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI continue as Systemically Important Banks.
• Risk Weighted Assets (RWAs): RWAs help decide the minimum capital a bank needs based on the risk of its loans and assets. Each asset is assigned a risk level to calculate this.
• Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1): Part of a bank's core capital, mainly made up of common stock, and is the strongest type of capital, absorbing losses as they happen.

Comb Jellies

• Marine invertebrates with ciliated "combs" for swimming, bioluminescence, and unique sticky cells for catching prey, include species like Mnemiopsis leidyi, which can reverse aging under stress by reverting to a larval stage.

Moran Community

• Indigenous group in Assam and Arunachal, seeking ST status and influenced by Vaishnavism.

India’s Analog Mission

• Located in Ladakh to simulate Mars and Moon conditions for human space exploration.

Garuda Shakti

• India-Indonesia joint exercise for counter-terrorism skills.

Mealworm Larvae

• Larvae that consume plastic due to gut bacteria, found in poultry environments.

SVASTIK

• CSIR-NIScPR project to validate and promote India’s traditional knowledge scientifically.

International Carbon Market Standards at CoP-29 (UNFCCC, Baku)

• Carbon Markets: Allow governments/non-state actors to trade greenhouse gas credits.
• Types: Compliance (government-managed) & Voluntary (independent organizations).
• India: Framework for Compliance (Perform Achieve Trade) & Voluntary (Clean Development Mechanism).

RBI & SEBI Framework for FPI to FDI Reclassification

• FPIs: Cap at 10% of an Indian company's paid-up equity; exceeding cap requires reclassification to FDI.
• New framework guides reclassification process, as per Foreign Exchange Management Regulations, 2019.
• Significance: Increases foreign investment flexibility, clarity for investors.

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

• Chronic, long-duration diseases linked to urbanization, aging, unhealthy lifestyles.
• India: National Programme for Prevention/Control of Cancer, Diabetes, CVD, and Stroke under NHM.

Global Carbon Budget Report (COP-29)

• Published by Global Carbon Project (Estd. 2001), tracking carbon emissions trends and Paris Agreement goals.
• Focus on CO₂, methane, nitrous oxide budgets.

India's Renewable Energy Sector (2023-2024)

• Total capacity: 203.18 GW; non-fossil fuel capacity: 211.36 GW.
• Solar: 92.12 GW, Wind: 47.72 GW, Hydro: 46.93 GW, Nuclear: 8.18 GW.

Adaptive Defence

• Proactive mindset for anticipating threats, innovating, and adapting to unforeseen challenges.

Emerging Technologies in Warfare

• Info warfare: Networked systems for informational advantage (e.g., Cyberwarfare).
• Lethal Autonomous Weapons, Space-based Laser/Railgun tech, Synthetic Biology (gene-editing risks).

Subansiri River

• Right bank, longest tributary of Brahmaputra; joins at Majauli island, Assam.
• Site of 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project.

Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)

• DRDO’s new 1,000 km range missile; ground/ship launch capable for long-range strategic strikes.
• A successor to the Nirbhay cruise missile.

Proba-3 Mission

• ISRO launching ESA’s Proba-3 for Sun corona observation via satellite formation flight.
• Uses PSLV-XL for 60,000 km orbit.

National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)

• Formed in 2018 (Companies Act, 2013) to enhance corporate financial reporting quality in India.

Nano-transporters

• Targeted delivery systems for controlled release of compounds to specific cells/tissues.

Fake News

• Fake news threatens citizens' Right to Information (RTI), upheld as a fundamental right by the Supreme Court in Raj Narayan vs. Uttar Pradesh Government (1975).
• The Bombay High Court recently struck down the PIB Fact Check Unit, which flagged “fake news” about government activities, as it allowed the government to be the sole “arbiter” of truth regarding its own activities.

Anti-Fake News Initiatives

• IT Rules 2021: Sets guidelines for content regulation by online news publishers and curated media.
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita: Section 353 criminalizes spreading false information that causes public harm.
• IT Act 2000: Section 66D punishes identity fraud through digital means.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna as New Chief Justice of India (CJI)

• “First among equals”: In State of Rajasthan vs Prakash Chand (1997), the SC held the CJI as head of the judiciary without superior authority over other SC judges.
• Judges are appointed by the President under Articles 124 and 217 (SC and HC).
• Collegium System: CJI and four senior SC judges recommend appointments.

Anti-Drone Technologies

• RF sensors detect drone signals across large areas.
• High-Power Microwave (HPM) systems neutralize electronics and personnel over wide zones.
• Integrated Drone Systems along the China border use jamming (“soft kills”) and lasers (“hard kills”).

Additional Anti-Drone Measures

• Anti-Rogue Drone Technology Committee (ARDTC) evaluates technologies to counter rogue drones.
• Drone Rules 2021: Divides airspace into Green, Yellow, and Red zones (no-fly).
• Detailed vulnerability mapping along the Indo-Pak border.

World Intellectual Property Indicators 2024

• India’s patent filings doubled from 2018 to 2023.
• Globally, India ranks 6th in patent filings, 4th in trademarks, and 10th in industrial designs.

Antariksha Abhyas 2024 - India’s First Space Defense Exercise

• Conducted by the Defense Space Agency in Delhi to bolster space-based defense and integrate space capability in military operations.

Hokersar Wetland

• A Ramsar Site, this eutrophic lake in Jhelum’s floodplain lies west of Srinagar.

Pantsir Air Defense System (PADS)

• The Pantsir-S1 is a mobile, short-range air defense with missile and gun capabilities, effective against aircraft, missiles, and precision weapons.

State of the Climate 2024

• WMO published the State of Climate 2024 for COP29 during the UN climate summit in Baku.

Gotti Koya Tribe

• This Adivasi tribe from Chhattisgarh migrated to neighboring states in 2005 due to Naxal conflict.

Places in News - Azerbaijan (Baku)

• Baku hosts the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29).