Atomic Notes May23 Civilsdaily

MAY 2023
THIS MONTHLY COMPILATION ENSURES:
1. C
overage of Multiple Sources daily: The Hindu, IE, PIB etc.
2. S elective & Accurate news selection: What to skip is as
important as what to read
3. E
xercise Critical Thinking: Identify topics that demand a
deeper dive or additional reading
4. C
oncise, Revision-Ready Notes: Easy to understand, and
primed for efficient revision
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CONTENTS
Subject No. of Topics
Economics 23
Governance 16
Polity 19
International Relations 11
Security Issues 5
Enviro & Biodiversity 9
Science Tech 16
Art and Culture 7
Modern India History 1
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - June 2023 Page No. 3
Economics
1. National Manufacturing Innovation Survey 2021-22: Released by
the Department of Science and Technology with UN Industrial Development Organization /// To
evaluate innovation performance of manufacturing firms in India /// Two specific components: (1)
Firm-level Survey: It captured data related to types of innovations and innovative measures taken by
firms, including the process of innovation, access to finance, resources, and information for innovation
/// (2) Sectorial System Survey: It mapped the manufacturing innovation system and its enabling role
in achieving innovations in firms /// Karnataka is most “innovative” State followed by Telangana,
Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Haryana /// Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand reporting the lowest share
of such firms.
Innovation Ecosystem in India
2. All India Radio (AIR) : Radio broadcasting began with the Radio Club of Bombay’s
first commercial transmission in 1923 /// 1927 establishment of the Indian Broadcasting Company
(IBC) /// 1930 establishment of the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) /// 1936 renamed as
All India Radio(AIR) /// Coverage was limited to just 2% of India’s land area and only reached 11% of
its population /// Today, AIR has a vast network of over 262 radio stations that cover 92 percent of
India’s area and nearly all of its population /// AIR broadcasts in 23 languages and 146 dialects, 16
foreign languages, reaching out to over 100 countries /// Its News Services Division broadcasts 647
bulletins daily, for nearly 56 hours in total /// Additionally, AIR has 18 FM stereo channels, and FM
broadcasting began in Chennai in 1977 /// Name change to exclusively refer to AIR as Akashvani is in
line with the Prasar Bharati Act, 1990, passed by the Parliament, and is more in tune with listeners’
emotional connect, as well as the law that came into being in 1997.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc
3. Project Dantak: Established on April 24, 1961 /// Agreement between the third king of
Bhutan and then PM Nehru /// Crucial role in the socio-economic development and growth of Bhutan ///
Indo-Bhutan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1949 provided for this /// Motorized transportation
road in Bhutan /// Infra development too: Contributed to the establishment of medical and educational
facilities in remote areas of India /// Takthi Canteen operated serves as a major stop for travellers ///
Major projects undertaken: Paro International Airport built in 1968, Thimphu – Trashigang Highway,
India House Estate (Indian Embassy in Bhutan).
Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.
4. Gold Reserves of RBI: India’s Forex Reserves comprise 1.Gold Reserves 2.Special
Drawing Rights(SDR) 3.Foreign Currency Assets(FCA) 4.India’s reserve tranche position with
the International Monetary Fund /// Gold is a safer asset being secure and more liquid /// Performs
better during times of crisis /// RBI is among the top 5 Central Banks that are buying gold (a/c to World
Gold Council) /// Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 provides the overarching legal framework for the
deployment of reserves in different foreign currency assets and gold.
RBI Notifications
5. Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN): RBI participated in

GFIN’s Greenwashing TechSprint event /// Against malpractices of making exaggerated, misleading,
or unsubstantiated claims ( aka greenwashing) about the environmental, social, and governance
(ESG) credentials of a product, service, or company /// January 2019, GFIN officially launched ///
Collaboration under Project Global Sandbox between 11 financial regulators during a cross-border
pilot project in 2018 /// Members: regulatory authorities, central banks, and supervisory bodies ///
Benefits of regulatory cooperation and information sharing in fostering responsible innovation in the
financial sector /// Consists of financial regulators and related organizations from around the world.
RBI Notifications
6. London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR): Represents the average interest

rate at which major London banks lend funds to each other /// Calculated daily through submissions
from a panel of banks, estimating borrowing rates for different currencies and time periods ///
Administered by Intercontinental Exchange and averages these submissions to determine LIBOR
rates, serving as a benchmark for financial contracts /// Various currencies included: USD, EUR, GBP,
JPY, CHF /// Financial institutions rely on LIBOR for pricing loans, derivatives, bonds, and other
instruments /// Concerns: Reliability and manipulation /// Alternative is MIFOR: Mumbai Interbank
Forward Outright Rate is a benchmark rate used in Indian financial markets /// Represents the forward
premium or discount on the USD-INR exchange rate based on the LIBOR rate.
Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.
7. Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): India Post is expected to

join ONDC /// Established by the DPIIT, ONDC comes under Ministry of Commerce and Industry ///
Private non-profit company under Section 8 of Companies Act /// Open e-commerce is the motive
behind /// Established in 2021: initial investments from the Quality Council of India and Protean eGov
Technologies Limited /// UPI of e-commerce /// Government-backed platform that aims to democratize
e-commerce /// Address violations of Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) (Amendment) Rules, 2021
by Big Tech companies /// Utilizes a “free software” methodology, open specifications, and an open
network protocol /// Backend is built on the Beckn Protocol, which is an open and interoperable
protocol for decentralized digital commerce /// Beckn Gateways provide anonymized aggregated data
from the network.
e-Commerce: The New Boom
8. Fertilizer Subsidy in India: Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme, implemented since

2010 by the Department of Fertilisers /// Provides subsidised fertilisers based on nutrients like N,
P, K, S /// Excludes urea-based fertilisers /// Additional subsidies are given for fortified fertilisers
with secondary nutrients and micronutrients /// Centre announces annually fixed subsidy rates on
nutrients /// Farmers purchase non-urea fertilisers below market rates /// Fertiliser companies
receive the subsidy, benefiting farmers who pay lower rates /// Subsidies are paid through a Direct
Benefit Transfer (DBT) system linked to the e-Urvarak DBT portal /// Fertiliser sales data, along with
buyer details and biometric authentication, are recorded on point-of-sale (PoS) devices /// E-Urvarak
platform process subsidy claims /// The exclusion of urea from NBS has led to a fertiliser imbalance
/// Resulted in increased urea usage by farmers.
Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.
9. Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS): RBI has amended rules under FEMA
to bring international credit card spends outside India under the purview of the LRS /// International
credit card for expenses abroad was previously not covered by the LRS /// Such spending will now
attract a higher rate of Tax Collected at Source (TCS) at 20% /// TCS is a direct tax levy collected
by sellers of specified goods from buyers and deposited to the government /// Taxpayers can claim
refunds on TCS levy during the process of filing tax returns /// LRS is a part of the Foreign Exchange
Management Act (FEMA) 1999, which provides guidelines for outward remittances from India ///
Under LRS, all residents allowed to freely remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year (April –
March) for permissible current or capital account transactions, or a combination of both /// Permitted
reasons- for remittance under the LRS include travel and tourism to foreign countries (except Nepal
and Bhutan), going abroad for employment, emigration, maintenance of close relatives living abroad,
expenses related to medical treatment abroad, and paying for education abroad.
Banking Sector Reforms
10. Angel Tax: Proposed changes and exemptions for angel taxation and also notified foreign
entities which will be exempted from the tax provisions /// Introduced in 2012, in India /// Levied on
capital raised by unlisted companies /// Aim is to prevent unaccounted money generation through
shares subscription at inflated values /// Prior to 2023 Budget proposal, angel tax provisions were
applicable only for investments received from resident investors /// However, Finance Bill 2023 has
now extended its applicability to non-resident investors as well.
Start-up Ecosystem In India
11. Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) Charges: Complete waiver

for green hydrogen/green ammonia production units using renewable energy, storage systems, or
hybrid combinations /// Eligible for projects commissioned by December 31, 2030 /// Commissioned by
December 31, 2032 /// Graded charges will apply to projects commissioned from January 1, 2033 ///
Previously, waived for new hydro-power projects transmission of electricity /// Facilitates offshore
green energy projects, promotes green hydrogen and ammonia initiatives, and encourages renewable
energy off-take from storage systems /// Offshore wind power (OWP) utilizes wind farms in bodies
of water to generate electricity /// Green hydrogen is produced from water using renewable energy
/// Green ammonia, derived from green hydrogen, is used for energy, shipping fuel, and as fertilizer.
Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.
12. Business Ready (B-READY) rankings by World Bank: World Bank

introduced a new methodology for assessing the business climate in up to 180 countries /// Replaces
the Ease of Doing Business Report Index rankings /// To attract investment, boost jobs, productivity,
and accelerate development /// To be published in spring 2024, covering 54 economies initially ///
B-READY includes worker rights for the first time /// Offers a balanced and transparent approach
to evaluating a country’s business and investment climate /// World Bank will publish all collected
data, including raw data, scores, and calculations used.
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc
13. New Tax Rules for Online Gaming: CBDT clarified that no TDS on winnings
withdrawn below ₹100 per month by gaming platform /// Rule 133 of Income-tax Act considers
bonus, referral bonus, incentives, etc, as taxable deposits /// Taxable Deposits are coins, coupons,
vouchers, counters, etc, with money equivalence /// Tax deducted when net winnings exceed ₹100
in the same or subsequent month or at the end of the financial year /// Multiple wallets considered
for calculating net winnings on online gaming platforms /// Valuation based on fair market value of
winnings /// Exceptions: Apply if online gaming intermediary purchased or manufactured winnings ///
Finance Bill 2023 changed applicability date of TDS provision to April 1, 2023 /// TDS rate of 30%
on net winnings from any online gaming as per section 194BA of Income-tax Act, 1961.
Start-up Ecosystem In India
14. Global Depository Receipts (GDRs): GDR is a foreign currency-denominated

and negotiable financial instrument /// Can be denominated as multiple forms of freely convertible
currency /// Certificates issued by a depository bank, which purchases foreign company shares
and deposits them in the account /// Used to raise capital from international investors through
public stock offerings or private placement /// Indian companies can get their shares listed on foreign
exchanges only through GDRs /// They can get foreign funds and gain access to international capital
/// Depository bank is the intermediary that acts as the custodian of the shares issued by the Indian
company /// Can convert GDRs into shares and trade them on the domestic stock exchanges /// Only
companies with a 3-year sound financial record can get access to GDRs /// Clearance is must get
from Ministry of Finance and Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) to obtain GDRs.
Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments
15. Clean Note Policy: RBI has decided to withdraw the Rs 2000 denomination
banknotes from circulation “Clean Note Policy” /// Rs 2000 banknote will continue its legal tender
status /// Deposit and/ or exchange these banknotes on or before September 30, 2023 /// Non-account
holders also can exchange ₹2000 banknotes up to a limit of ₹20,000/- at a time at any bank branch ///
RBI scrapped in 2018-19 printing of ₹2000 notes /// Clean Note Policy seeks to give public good-
quality currency notes and coins with better security features, while soiled notes are withdrawn out
of circulation /// RBI earlier decided to withdraw all banknotes issued prior to 2005 as they have
fewer security features as compared to banknotes printed after 2005 /// However they continue to be
legal tender.
Cashless Society – Digital Payments, Demonetization, etc.
16. Expected Credit Loss Norms: Banks have sought a one-year extension from RBI
for implementation of the Expected Credit Loss (ECL)-based loan loss provisioning framework /// ECL
is a method of accounting for credit risk /// It is based on loss likely to occur on a loan or portfolio
of loans /// Classification of financial assets: Under the ECL norms, banks will be required to classify
their financial assets into three categories – Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 /// Estimates forward-looking
probability of default for each loan.
NPA Crisis
17. Evergreening of Loans: Evergreen loans do not require repayment of principal

during a loan’s life or a specified time period /// aka. standing or revolving loans, where the borrower
only pays interest /// Involves granting new loans to prevent default and hide NPAs /// Evergreening
is a temporary fix for banks /// Can be considered a form of zombie lending /// NPA occurs when
interest or installment remains unpaid for more than 90 days /// Includes practices like: buyback
of loans, structured deals with stressed borrowers, adjustment of repayment obligations, and renewal or
disbursement of new loans to conceal stress /// Restructuring is often used to evergreen problem accounts
and keep reported NPA levels low /// Between 2000 and 2014, companies used fresh loans to evergreen
their loan books through liberal restructuring.
NPA Crisis
18. Expected Credit Loss (ECL): Banks seek a one-year extension from RBI for
implementing ECL-based loan loss provisioning /// In January 2023 RBI proposed ECL approach for
credit impairment /// For loss provisioning within one year of final guidelines /// Currently, banks
use Incurred Loss approach for loan loss provisions /// ECL estimates potential credit losses before
they occur /// 3 Stages categorization of financial assets /// Stage 1: Low credit risk or no significant
increase in credit risk /// Stage 2: Increased credit risk but no objective evidence of impairment /// Stage 3:
Objective evidence of impairment and significant credit deterioration
RBI Notifications
19. Irrigation cover in India: 52% of India’s cultivated land now has irrigation, said
a NITI Aayog Report /// In 2022-23, out 141 million hectares, nearly 73 million hectares or 52% had
irrigation access /// This is an increase from 41% in 2016 /// Increased irrigation cover, particularly in
dryland agricultural zones like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh /// Agriculture accounts for about 80%
of India’s annual available water use /// Monsoon still plays a significant role in irrigating kharif
or summer-sown crops from June to September /// Canal networks irrigate 40%, while groundwater
accounts for 60% of total irrigated area /// Conventional surface irrigation has only 60% efficiency,
whereas drip irrigation has nearly 90% efficiency /// Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) was established in
collaboration with NABARD in 2018-19 to support states in mobilizing resources /// Success can be
attributed to: PMKSY, AIBP, Har Khet Ko Paani-Surface Minor Irrigation, PMKSY-groundwater projects,
special package for Maharashtra, and Rajasthan and Srihind feeder and Shahpur-Kandi project.
Irrigation In India – PMKSY, AIBP, Watershed Management, Neeranchan, etc.
20. Oil Pipelines in India: India among the top five countries developing oil pipelines,
either under construction or proposed /// Top 5 Countries: United States, India, Iraq, Iran, and Tanzania
/// Top five companies: Iran’s Ministry of Petroleum, China National Petroleum Corporation, Iraq’s
Ministry of Oil, India’s Numaligarh Refinery Limited, and France’s TotalEnergies /// India ranks second
globally in the category of pipelines under construction with 1,630 km of oil pipelines /// India
secures the 10th spot with 1,194 km of proposed pipelines /// Paradip Numaligarh Crude Pipeline:
starts at Paradip port and passes through Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Assam before
reaching the Numaligarh refinery /// New Mundra-Panipat Oil Pipeline: Operated by Indian Oil, it
has a capacity of 8.4 MMTPA /// 1,194 km long with a maximum diameter of 28 inches /// Runs from
Chudva in Gujarat to IOCL’s Panipat refinery in Haryana, passing through districts in Rajasthan like
Nagaur, Jalore, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Jodhpur, and Pali.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.
21. RBI Surplus Transfer to Govt: RBI approved the transfer of ₹87,416 crore as
surplus to the Union government for the accounting year 2022-23 /// Surplus transfer is mandated
by Section 47 of RBI Act, 1935 /// Two types of reserves are held by the RBI: (1) Currency & Gold
Revaluation Account (CGRA)- value of gold and foreign currency held by the RBI on behalf of India
(2) Contingency Fund (CF) – a provision to meet unexpected contingencies arising from the RBI’s
monetary policy and exchange rate operations /// RBI’s surplus is calculated from income minus
expenses, including CF provisions /// RBI is exempted from paying income tax or any other tax as
per Section 48 of the RBI Act /// RBI earns income from– managing government and state government
borrowings, regulating banks and non-banking finance companies, and managing currency and payment
systems, returns on foreign currency assets, interest on local rupee-denominated government bonds,
lending to banks, and management commission for handling government and state government
borrowings /// Expenditures- include currency printing costs, staff salaries, commissions to banks,
and payments to primary dealers /// Y H Malegam Committee (2013) recommended a higher transfer
to the government, increasing the percentage of surplus transferred /// Bimal Jalan Committee
(2018) made recommendations on realized equity, Expected Shortfall, Contingent Risk Buffer, surplus
distribution, and periodic review of the Economic Capital Framework.
RBI Notifications
22. UDAN 5.1 : Recently launched by Ministry of Civil Aviation to further enhance connectivity
to remote areas and achieve last mile connectivity through helicopters /// Designed for helicopter
routes, allowing priority areas for either origin or destination location /// Reduction of airfare caps
by 25% aims to make flying in helicopters more affordable for passengers /// Viability Gap Funding
(VGF) caps for operators have been substantially increased for both single and twin-engine helicopters
/// Reflects deeper democratization of air travel with a focus on last-mile connectivity and a growing
interest in helicopters for tourism /// Previous rounds of scheme have already operationalized 46
helicopter routes /// Benefiting hilly and NE states, and this round aims to cover a larger number of
routes.
Civil Aviation Sector – CA Policy 2016, UDAN, Open Skies, etc.
23. Bima Trinity: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) released
‘Vision Insurance for All’ by 2047 /// Bima Trinity to increase insurance penetration in India ///
1. Bima Sugam is a unified platform that combines insurers and distributors, simplifying policy
purchases, service requests, and claims settlement for customers /// 2. Bima Vistar is a comprehensive
bundled policy that covers life, health, property, and accidents, ensuring quick claim payouts without
the need for surveyors /// 3. Bima Vaahaks, a women-centric workforce at the Gram Sabha level,
educates and convinces women about the benefits of comprehensive insurance/// IRDAI, founded in
1999, is a regulatory body created to protect the interests of insurance customers, operating under the
jurisdiction of the Ministry of Finance // / Regulates and develops the insurance industry while
monitoring insurance-related activities.
Financial Inclusion in India and Its Challenges
Governance
1. Psychedelics: Psychedelics alter perception, mood, and thought processing while allowing
individuals to remain conscious and with unimpaired insight /// They are non-addictive and non-
toxic and cause less harm compared to illicit drugs /// Two most commonly used psychedelics are LSD
and psilocybin, with synthetic versions also developed /// Prohibited in India, except for ketamine
used under strict medical supervision /// Humans have used psilocybin and mescaline for spiritual
rituals and healing for centuries /// Modern-day use of psychedelics is commonly associated with the
isolation of mescaline by Arthur Heffter in 1897 and the synthesis of LSD by Albert Hofmann in 1938
/// Users of psychedelic substances report changes in perception, somatic experience, mood, thought-
processing, and entheogenic experiences /// Classical psychedelics boost brain serotonin levels and
increase cross-talk between different brain networks /// Psilocybin’s therapeutic effects require a ‘trip’
mediated by serotonin receptors /// Death due to direct toxicity of LSD, psilocybin, or mescaline has
not been reported in the literature /// Synthetic psychedelics have been associated with acute cardiac,
central nervous system, and limb ischemia, as well as serotonin syndrome.
Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.
2. Tele-MANAS Initiative: MANAS= Mental Health Assistance and Networking across

States (Tele-MANAS) /// IMHANS Srinagar has received over 10,500 calls from people in distress
across Jammu and Kashmir over the past six months /// launched by the Ministry of Health & Family
Welfare in October 2022 /// Initiative aims to provide free tele-mental health services throughout the
country round the clock, with a network of 38 health centres of excellence spread across 27 states
and UTs working in over 20 languages /// Includes a toll-free, 24/7 helpline number and is being
customized for use across all States and UTs, linking with other services like National tele-consultation,
e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat, mental health professionals, health centres, and emergency psychiatric
facilities for specialized care /// Sought to address the mental health crisis since the wake of the COVID-
19 pandemic.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
3. Cantonments Boards: Centre has kicked off a plan to abolish the 62 cantonments around
the country as “archaic colonial legacies” /// The first one is Yol in Himachal Pradesh /// Cantonments
are permanent military stations governed by the Cantonments Act, 2006 /// There are 62 cantonments
in India that are maintained by the Defence Estates Organization (DEO) under the Ministry of
Defence /// Cantonments are considered to have better infrastructure and facilities compared to other
parts of the country, and Cantonment Boards are democratic bodies comprising elected and nominated
members /// The Cantonments Act, 2006, replaced the Cantonments Act, 1924, to provide greater
autonomy and accountability to the Cantonment Boards /// Cantonments are categorized based on
the population residing inside them, with four categories ranging from more than 50,000 to industrial
or training Cantonments irrespective of their population size.
Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.
4. ‘Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi’ Slogan: Centre is planning to promote ‘Early Childhood
Care and Education’ through anganwadi centres /// Started in 1975, Anganwadi scheme aims at holistic
child development and empowering mothers /// Children under 6, particularly under 3 are focused for
nutrition and early learning /// Anganwadi revamp: Will be repositioned as pre-schools to provide early
learning /// Eggs recommended for nutrition intervention /// Inferior quality services at Anganwadi
centres led to the initiative /// Task force recommendations: Rebranding anganwadis, involving
volunteers and local organizations, re-designating workers, improving infrastructure, providing
nutrition supplements, leveraging MGNREGS funds /// Improving child nutrition as over 35% of
young children in India are stunted /// India has the largest population of stunted children globally.
Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.
5. Meri LiFE Mera Swachh Shehar Campaign: Ministry for Housing and
Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the campaign /// Objective is to establish ‘Reduce, Reuse,
Recycle (RRR) Centres’ in cities /// Citizens can contribute clothes, shoes, old books, toys, and used
plastic for reuse or recycling /// RRR Centres to deposit unused or used items, which will then
be refurbished or made into new products by different stakeholders /// Aims at creating a circular
economy and reducing waste generation /// India introduced LiFE Movement @ 26th UN Climate
Change Conference of the Parties- COP26 in Glasgow in 2021 /// It promotes an environmentally
conscious lifestyle that emphasizes mindful and deliberate utilization instead of mindless and wasteful
consumption.
6. Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS): Developed by the NPCI

(National Payments Corporation of India) /// Enables interoperability among banks /// Allows people
access their bank accounts through any bank’s micro-ATM or PoS device /// Provides a simple, secure,
and convenient payment method, for those without access to smartphones, the Internet, or formal
banking channels /// No need for OTPs, bank accounts, and other financial details /// Available 24×7
across the country and is free for customers.
Aadhaar Card Issues
7. Sagar Parikrama Yatra: Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying
launched Sagar Parikrama Yatra Phase-V /// Coastal regions covered: Gateway of India, Karanja (Raigad
District), Mirkarwada (Ratnagiri District), Devgad (Sindhudurg District), Malvan, Vasco, Mormugaon,
Canacona (South Goa) /// To uplift the fishers and other stakeholders through fisheries schemes like
PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) /// Sustainable balance for marine
resource utilization, livelihoods, and ecosystem protection /// Phase I in Gujarat in 2022 /// Phase II
Mangrol to Madhwad /// Phase III covered the route from Surat to Mumbai.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc
8. Sanchar Saathi Portal: Ministry of Communications launched the Sanchar Saathi

portal /// It is a citizen-centric initiative to empower mobile subscribers, strengthen their security
and increase awareness /// Developed by: C-DoT under the Department of Telecommunications
(DoT) /// CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) for blocking stolen/lost mobiles /// Know
your mobile connections: To know mobile connections registered in your name /// ASTR (Artificial
Intelligence and Facial Recognition powered Solution for Telecom SIM Subscriber Verification): To
identify fraudulent subscribers /// Verification: Check the connections registered on their names,
Report fraudulent or unrequired connections, Block the mobile phones which are stolen/lost and Check
IMEI genuineness before buying a mobile phone.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc
9. National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA): UP awarded the Assembly a certificate

of appreciation for the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) /// NeVA is a system for digitizing
the legislative bodies of all Indian states and the Parliament through a single platform /// House
proceedings, questions and answers, committee reports, etc. are available on NeVA /// Nodal
Ministry: Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) /// NeVA funding: Central Sponsored Scheme,
60:40 ratio, 90:10 for North East & hilly states, and 100% for UTs /// Odisha 1st state to use NeVA
for presenting a paperless budget /// Bihar digital house using NeVA platform /// Nagaland first
assembly to install necessary hardware for NeVA digitalization.
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc
10. 75/25 Initiative: Union Health Ministry unveiled the “75/25” initiative on World
Hypertension Day 2023 /// The initiative aligns with National Programme for Prevention and Control
of NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases)/// Standardized care to 75 million individuals with
hypertension and diabetes by 2025, mainly through Primary Health Centers (PHCs) /// Shashakt
Portal will train approximately 40,000 Primary Health Care Medical Officers on the Standard
Treatment Workflow for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
11. Kudumbashree Scheme: 25th-anniversary celebrations was recently inaugurated by

the President of India /// Established in 1997 in Kerala /// Aimed at empowering women & eradicating
poverty /// GoI and NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) supported ///
Three-Tier structure consisting of Neighbourhood Groups (NHGs), Area Development Societies
(ADS), and Community Development Societies (CDS) /// Goal is to eliminate absolute poverty within
10 years.
Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education
12. PARAKH Program: Organization created for the unified platform of school boards
/// PARAKH stands for Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic
Development /// It has been launched as part of NEP-2020 implementation /// It is a constituent unit
of NCERT /// Periodic learning outcome tests like National and State Achievement Surveys will be
conducted by PARAKH /// Three major assessment areas will be worked on: large-scale assessments,
school-based assessment, and examination reforms.
Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.
13. Smart Cities Mission: Initiative of MoHUA (Union Ministry of Housing and Urban
Affairs) /// Launched on June 25, 2015 by Prime Minister /// To improve municipal services and
enhance liveability across cities /// Centrally Sponsored Scheme, with the Centre providing financial
support of Rs /// 48,000 crores over 5 years, averaging Rs /// 100 crore per city per year /// 100 cities
were selected for the Mission over five rounds between January 2016 and June 2018 /// Objective:
provide core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a decent quality of life through
the application of smart solutions /// Economic growth and improved quality of life are targeted
through comprehensive work on social, economic, physical, and institutional aspects of the city ///
Matching funds are to be provided by the State/ULB /// Additional resources will be raised through
convergence /// ULB’s own funds and grants under the Finance Commission, Municipal Bonds,
government programs, and borrowings.
14. National Population Register (NPR): NPR online will be provided for self-
enumeration in Census to households that have updated it /// NPR is a register of usual residents
/// Mandatory for every resident to register in it /// First NPR prepared in 2010, and its updating
was conducted in 2015 through a door-to-door survey /// Next NPR, along with Census 2021, was
postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic /// Registrar General of India (RGI) under the Home
Ministry conducts the NPR /// Data is shared with states and Centre government for welfare schemes
/// Census is conducted every 10 years, with the responsibility resting with the Office of the Registrar
General and Census Commissioner of India /// Enumeration is conducted in two phases: house-
listing and housing census, followed by population enumeration /// Census has a legal basis under the
Census Act, 1948, and is listed in the Union List of the Constitution /// Right of self-enumeration in
the Census, citizens must update their NPR details online /// Web-based self-enumeration portal,
with a mobile-friendly portal yet to be launched.
Citizenship and Related Issues
15. Narco Analysis Test: Sodium pentothal is injected to the accused /// Induces a
hypnotic or sedated state where their imagination is neutralized /// Induces incapability of lying
and expected to disclose true information /// Short-duration anesthetic, is used in larger doses
during surgery to sedate patients /// Barbiturate class of drugs that depress central nervous system ///
Referred as truth serum due to its supposed ability to weaken subject’s resolve to lie /// Right against
self-incrimination under Article 20(3) of Constitution is violated- In case of ‘Selvi & Ors vs. State of
Karnataka & Anr’ (2010) /// Consent of accused is necessary, mandated the SC /// NHRC guidelines
in 2000 for administration of polygraph tests, mandates consent before a judicial magistrate ///
Results of these tests cannot be considered as confessions or evidence .
Police Reforms – SC directives, NPC, other committees reports
16. Iron Fortification: Iron fortification of food is a suggested method for treating iron
deficiency anaemia /// Iron is an essential mineral, but excess intake can be harmful /// Typically, a
chosen food staple is fortified to provide a significant portion of the daily iron requirement /// The
tolerable upper limit of iron intake is set at 40 mg/day /// Only a small percentage of ingested
iron is absorbed, while the rest passes through the intestine /// This can cause inflammation and
disruption of the colonic microbiota /// This can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and blood loss ///
Excess iron can also impair the absorption of other essential minerals /// It has been associated with
chronic comorbidities like diabetes and liver fibrosis.
Food Processing Industry: Issues and Developments
Polity
1. Article 142 of Indian Constitution: It titled ‘Enforcement of decrees and orders
of the Supreme Court and orders as to discovery, etc’ /// It is a provision in the Indian Constitution that
empowers the Supreme Court to pass any order or decree necessary for complete justice in any cause
or matter pending before it /// The decree or order passed is enforceable throughout the territory of
India /// May be executed as prescribed by law or by the order of the President /// Additionally, Article
142(2) grants the Supreme Court the power to make any order necessary for securing the attendance
of any person, the discovery or production of any documents, or the investigation or punishment of
any contempt of itself /// Article 142 was originally numbered as Article 118 when it was drafted
and placed before the Constituent Assembly in 1949 /// It was adopted on the same day without any
debate.
Judicial Reforms
2. Sedition Law (Section 124A of IPC): Lays down punishment for sedition ///
IPC was enacted in 1860, under British Raj /// Particularly after successful suppression of Wahabi/
Waliullah Movement, need was felt for such law /// Throughout Raj, this section was used to suppress
activists in favor of national independence /// Queen-Empress vs. Bal Gangadhar Tilak (1897) was
first case in which Section 124A was defined and applied /// Again in 1908, when Tilak was tried under
same section, then young barrister and a staunch protagonist Mohammed Ali Jinnah defended Tilak ///
Definition of Sedition: Any person who uses words, written or spoken, signs, or visible representations,
to excite disaffection, hatred, or contempt against the government established by law in India ///
Disaffection includes disloyalty and all feelings of enmity /// Comments without exciting or attempting
to excite hatred, contempt or disaffection, will not constitute an offence /// Sedition is a non-bailable
offence /// Punishment ranges from imprisonment up to three years to a life term with/without a fine
/// Sedition was made a cognizable offense for first time in history in India during tenure of PM Indira
Gandhi in 1973, that is, arrest without a warrant was now permissible /// SC in 1962 interpreted
124A to apply only in cases of “incitement to violence” or “overthrowing a democratically elected
government through violent means.”
Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.
3. World Press Freedom Index: India’s ranking in the 2023 has slipped to 161 out of
180 countries /// WPFI is an annual ranking published by Reporters without Borders since 2002
/// Pakistan’s ranking improving to 150 and Afghanistan being ranked 152nd /// Norway, Ireland and
Denmark occupied the top three positions in press freedom, while Vietnam, China and North Korea
were bottom 3 /// SC in Romesh Thappar v /// the State of Madras, 1950 observed that freedom of
the press lay at the foundation of all democratic organisations /// Freedom of the press is not expressly
protected by the Indian legal system but it is impliedly protected under article 19(1) (a) of the
constitution /// The freedom of the press is also not absolute.
4. Emergency Provisions under Article 355: It is a part of emergency provisions

contained in Part XVIII /// Empowers the central government to take all necessary steps to protect
a state against internal disturbances and external aggression /// To ensure that the government
can act swiftly and decisively in the event of any disturbance or threat to the peace and security of
the country /// Duration of the assistance provided under Article 355 is not specified /// Centre can
withdraw its assistance situation is normalized /// Duration of the assistance provided under Article
355 is subject to judicial review and can be challenged in court.
North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues
5. Sovereignty of India: Preamble mentions the concept of sovereignty /// Fundamental

Duties emphasizing citizens’ duty to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of
India /// Quasi-federal Indian political system /// States are not required to be consulted on most
constitutional amendments /// Appointment of Governors “during the pleasure” of the President and
are considered representatives of the Union /// 16th Amendment of 1963 restricted the protection of
advocating succession under Article 19 (1) in the name of Freedom of Speech /// Power to alter state
boundaries and create new states lies solely with Parliament /// No guarantee of territorial integrity
of states without their consent.
6. Surrogacy Law and Same-Sex Couples: Surrogacy laws do not include same-
sex couples and live-in partners /// To ensure that children have a ‘complete family’ structure
/// Regulation– Commercial surrogacy is prohibited, but altruistic surrogacy is allowed /// No
monetary compensation to the surrogate mother // Medical expenses and insurance are given ///
Proven infertility is must for permitted purposes /// Certification for ‘essentiality’ and ‘eligibility’
/// District Medical Board or similar authority to issue such certificates /// Eligibility for surrogate
mother– close relative OR genetically related to the couple /// a married woman with own child ///
aged between 25 to 35 years /// a surrogate only once in her lifetime /// Possess a certificate of medical
and psychological fitness /// Surrogate cannot provide her own gametes /// Widowed or divorced
women aged between 35 and 45 can also avail surrogacy services .
Surrogacy in India
7. New Parliament: Built-up area of about 65,000 sq. m. with its triangular shape /// Lok
Sabha Design: Based on India’s national bird peacock theme, Thrice the current seating capacity at
888 seats /// The Lok Sabha may accommodate up to 1,272 seats for joint sessions of Parliament ///
Rajya Sabha Design: 348 seats, which is based on the Lotus theme – the national flower /// Platinum-
rated green building and showcases India’s “commitment towards sustainable development /// Open
courtyard has the national tree ‘Banyan’ as well /// Designed by Bimal Patel Ahmedabad-based HCP
Design, Planning, and Management /// Safety concerns: Current Parliament in Seismic Zone-II.
8. SC guidelines on granting BAIL: Constitutional principle of personal liberty

should be adhered to in orders concerning bail cases, as emphasized by the Supreme Court /// Bail is the
conditional release of a defendant, with the requirement to appear in court as necessary /// Security
deposited to secure the accused’s release /// Three types of bail in India, depending on the stage of the
criminal matter: regular bail, interim bail, and anticipatory bail /// Person in police custody, Regular
bail is generally granted /// Short period of time before hearing, Interim bail is granted /// Section 438
of CrPC, Anticipatory bail can be granted by either the session court or High Court /// Conditions of
bail in bailable offenses are laid down by Section 436 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 /// Non-
bailable offenses: the accused does not have the right to apply for bail, and the decision to grant bail
rests with the court /// Certain situations for bail include- if the accused is a woman or child, there is
a lack of evidence, there is a delay in lodging the FIR, or the accused is gravely sick.
Judicial Reforms
9. Sikkim Statehood Day: Sikkim day is annually celebrated on May 16, commemorating
the integration with India in 1975 /// Formed by the 36th Amendment to the Constitution of India ///
Established by the Namgyal dynasty in the 17th century /// It was made a protectorate of the British
Empire in 1890 /// In 1953, a state council was established to enable constitutional rule /// A people’s
agitation in 1973 against monarchy /// Chogyal formally requested security from India /// Granted
status of “associated state” in 1974 /// One seat each in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha /// In 1975,
Sikkim PM petitioned the Indian Parliament for Sikkim to become a state of India.
North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues
10. Anti-Defection Law: Added 10th Schedule to the Constitution through the 52nd
Amendment Act of 1985 /// Disqualification of members of Parliament and state legislatures if they
defected from one political party to another /// It also allowed for mergers between political parties
without penalty /// The 91st Amendment Act of 2003 made changes to the provision /// Required at
least 2/3rd members for merger to bypass the anti-defection act /// A member is disqualified if they
voluntarily give up their membership in a political party or vote contrary to the party’s direction
without prior permission /// Independent members joining a political party after their election
and nominated members joining a political party after 6 months from joining the house face
disqualification /// Presiding officer is responsible for deciding questions of disqualification from that
house /// Subject to judicial review /// The presiding officer has rule-making power and can refer
cases to the committee of privileges for inquiry /// The 91st Amendment also introduced provisions
limiting the number of ministers in the Central Council of Ministers and state Council of Ministers
and disqualifying defectors from holding remunerative political posts /// The amendment deleted
the provision exempting disqualification in the case of a split by one-third of party members,
removing protection for defectors.
Anti Defection Law
11. National Population Register (NPR): Citizens opting for self-filling Census
forms must update their National Population Register (NPR) details online /// NPR first put together
in 2010 and updated in 2015, already has the details of 119 crore people /// List of all usual residents
of the country /// He/She resided in a place for six months or more and intends to reside there for
another six months or more /// Prepared under Citizenship Act 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration
of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003 /// Mandatory for every “usual resident
of India” to register in the NPR.
Citizenship and Related Issues
12. Free Airtime for Political Parties: Political parties during elections receive
free airtime on public broadcasters, All India Radio (Akashvani) and Doordarshan /// Based on the 2003
amendment to RP Act, 1951 /// SC has ruled that airwaves are public property and should serve the
greater public good /// Free airtime is ONLY available to ‘National Parties’ and ‘Recognized State
Parties’ /// Parties are allocated a base time of 45 minutes, with additional slots based on previous
performance /// A total of 630 minutes of free airtime was issued under this allotment /// Each
party receives printed Time Vouchers in 5-minute denominations /// Time vouchers are distributed
through a transparent lottery system by the Election Commission /// Prohibited content- criticism
of other countries, attacks on religions or communities, obscenity, defamation, incitement of violence, contempt
of court, aspersions against the President and Judiciary, and anything affecting national unity, sovereignty,
and integrity /// For disagreements over script content, Apex Committee comprising members from
Akashvani and Doordarshan makes the final decision.
Electoral Reforms In India
13. Anuradha Bhasin Guidelines on Internet Shutdown: Freedom

of speech and expression and Freedom of trade and commerce on internet are constitutionally
protected rights under Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(g) /// Internet suspension orders (ISO) must be
published for legal challenge in courts /// ISO are not issued under CrPC Section 144 due to changes
since the notification of the Telecom Suspension Rules 2017 /// Section 144 of the CrPC- Executive
Magistrates can prohibit assembly of four or more people /// Indefinite suspension orders are not
allowed under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Service)
Rules, 2017 /// Suspension can only be temporary /// Internet suspension orders must adhere to the
principle of proportionality and not exceed necessary duration /// Review within 5 days of issuance,
with periodic reviews every 7 days /// ISO under the Suspension Rules are subject to judicial review.
14. Article 299 of the Constitution: SC has clarified that the Government when
entering into a contract under the President’s name, cannot claim immunity if contracts are made
under Article 299 of the Constitution /// Article 298 grants power to the Centre and state governments
for trade, property, and contracts /// Article 299 specifies how these contracts should be concluded ///
Crown Proceedings Act of 1947 exempted the Crown from lawsuits regarding its contracts /// Article
299(1) requires contracts to be expressed as made by the President or Governor /// They are not
personally liable for these contracts (Article 299(2)) /// Article 299(1) mandates written deeds or
contracts by authorized persons /// Chatturbhuj Vithaldas Jasani v. Moreshwar Parashram & Ors.
SC emphasized this objective /// Non-compliant contracts are unenforceable under Article 299(1) ///
‘KP Chowdhry v State of Madhya Pradesh And Others’ and ‘State of Bihar v Messrs Karam Chand
Thapar,’ SC set conditions for government contracts under Article 299 /// Three conditions for a
binding contract against the government: Expressly made by Governor or Governor-General /// Written
execution /// Execution directed or authorized by Governor or Governor-General.
15. Supreme Court’s Maharashtra Assembly Verdict: SC has recently

given its judgments related to the resignation of erstwhile CM who has not faced floor test /// Earlier,
in the Kihoto Hollohan case, SC held that the independence and impartiality of the Speaker when
adjudicating on proceedings under the Tenth Schedule shall not be doubted /// Highlights- Speaker
should decide if disqualification application is bonafide or intended only to evade adjudication ///
Any decision of the Speaker will be subject to judicial review by the court /// Courts should normally
refrain at the first instance from deciding disqualification petitions /// Disqualification should
be first adjudicated by the Speaker, by the procedure prescribed under the Constitution /// Tenth
Schedule indicates that Whip and the Leader of the legislative party must be appointed by that
political party and not the legislature party /// Speaker and the Election Commission (ECI) are
empowered to concurrently adjudicate on the petitions placed before them under the Tenth Schedule
and under the Election Symbols Order respectively /// Not necessary for ECI to rely on Floor test of
majority in the legislature alone when deciding about the majority when the party splits /// Floor test
cannot be used to resolve internal party disputes or intra-party disputes /// Defense of ‘party split’
is not available to ‘disqualification’ members facing disqualification proceedings /// Speaker would
prima facie determine who the political party is for when two or more factions claim to belong to
that political party /// Disqualification facing MLA can participate in House proceedings regardless
of the pendency of any petitions for their disqualification.
President’s Rule
16. Krishna Water Dispute: Originates in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, spans

approximately 1,400 km /// Passing through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh
/// Tributaries – Tungabhadra, Bhima, Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, and Musi /// Forms a fertile delta in
the Bay of Bengal /// Dispute dates back to the formation of AP in November 1956 /// A Gentlemen’s
Agreement was signed to ensure equitable water distribution /// However, the agreement favored
Andhra, neglected drought-prone areas in Telangana /// Bachawat Tribunal (KWDT-I) was
established in 1969 to settle the dispute, allocating water shares to AP /// AP Reorganisation Act,
2014, established an ad hoc arrangement for water sharing between the states /// Telangana claims
a minimum of 70% share based on global practices, while AP diverts water, impacting drought-prone
regions /// Despite meetings convened by the Centre, no substantial progress has been made.
Interstate River Water Dispute
17. Delhi Governance Ordinance: An Ordinance by the central government

overturned a Supreme Court verdict /// It gave LG of Delhi control over services, affecting the elected
government’s control over official transfers and postings /// Raised constitutional concerns about the
balance of power /// LG has power over services /// “National Capital Civil Service Authority” , as
new body /// Overrule CM’s viewpoint on these matters /// Article 123- Ordinances are laws issued by
the President during parliamentary recess, /// Article 213 gives Governors similar authority /// Yet,
they can only issue ordinances when necessary for immediate action, and their motives can be subject
to judicial review /// Features of ordinances include retrospective effect, nullity during parliamentary
session, a time limit for approval, continuation of resulting acts and laws, limits on legislative authority,
and protection of fundamental rights.
Delhi Full Statehood Issue
18. GANHRI defers accreditation of NHRC: The accreditation of National

Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has been deferred by Global Alliance of National Human Rights
Institutions (GANHRI) /// For second time in a decade, citing objections including political interference
in appointments /// NHRC was granted ‘A’ status in 2017 after a previous deferral /// NHRC will be
unable to represent India at UN Human Rights Council /// GANHRI (under UN) was established in
1993 as International Coordinating Committee of National Institutions for promotion and protection of
human rights /// Paris Principles, adopted in 1993, provide international benchmarks for accreditation
of National Human Rights Institutions /// ‘A’ rating allows NHRIs to join work of GANHRI and
UN on human rights issues /// NHRC, established in 1993 in accordance with Paris Principles ///
Independent statutory body safeguarding human rights in India /// Consists of a chairperson, full-
time and deemed members, with appointments made by President based on recommendations.
Human Rights Issues
19. Recusal of Judges: Act of abstaining from participation in an official action ///
No formal rules governing recusals, although issue has been addressed in several Supreme Court
judgments /// Test of likelihood of bias is based on reasonableness of apprehension in mind of party,
as stated in Ranjit Thakur v Union of India (1987) case /// Conflict arise from prior or personal
associations with parties involved, having represented one of parties /// Recusal is based on principle
that nobody can be a judge in their own case, and any interest or conflict of interest would be grounds
for withdrawal to ensure fairness /// Decision typically made by judge, who may orally convey reasons
to lawyers or parties involved or include them in their order /// Requests for recusal can be made by
lawyers or parties in case, with final decision resting with judge /// If a judge recuses, case is referred
to Chief Justice for reassignment to a new bench.
Judicial Reforms
International Relations
1. ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise: The first-ever AIME will be held on May 2, 2023
in South China Sea, with the Indian Navy’s INS Satpura and INS Delhi participating in the exercise
/// Goal: to promote close cooperation and seamless operations in the maritime domain between the
Indian Navy and ASEAN navies /// 10 ASEAN members: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia,
Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam /// Formed on August 8, 1967,
Headquarters: Jakarta, Indonesia /// Conducting exercises in the contested region of the SCS allows
India to demonstrate its commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation and upholding international
maritime laws while countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific /// Plays a critical role in
India’s security and well-being, as it is an important sea-lane of communication for global trade, with
nearly $200 billion of India’s trade passing through the area /// SCS dispute is over territory and
sovereignty over ocean areas, including the Paracels and the Spratlys /// Competing claims are made
by China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Brunei /// China claims the largest portion
of the territory, and its right to the area goes back centuries, with the Paracel and Spratly island chains
being regarded as integral parts of the Chinese nation.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-ASEAN
2. Washington Declaration: Recent agreement signed by US and South Korea to

strengthen their nuclear deterrence capabilities against North Korea’s regional aggression /// Key terms
of declaration include deployment of an American nuclear ballistic submarine in Korean peninsula,
formation of a nuclear consultative group to formulate joint response tactics, joint military training
programs, and an annual intergovernmental simulation /// reaffirms Non-Proliferation Treaty ///
South Korea will not create its own independent nuclear capabilities /// It will instead focus on
deterrence measures through an alliance-based approach /// US is sole authority to use nukes in event
of a nuclear confrontation /// NPT: 191 parties, including the US, Russia, China, France, and the UK
/// 3 main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and peaceful use of nuclear energy /// Non-nuclear-
weapon states agree not to acquire nuclear weapons and accept IAEA safeguards /// Reviewed every 5
years, most recent review in 2015.
Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament
3. International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO): Agency of UN

created in 1944 /// To promote safe, secure, and efficient air transportation around the world ///
Headquarters: Montreal, Canada /// India will join ICAO’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme
for International Aviation (CORSIA) from 2027 /// CORSIA established by the ICAO to address the
growth in CO2 emissions from international aviation /// To maintain net carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions at the same level as they were in 2020 through various methods such as carbon offsetting,
utilizing carbon credits, and promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel.
Civil Aviation Sector – CA Policy 2016, UDAN, Open Skies, etc.
4. Yanomami Territory: Brazilian government expediting the expulsion of illegal miners

in Yanomami, the largest indigenous territory /// Yanomami region encompasses the territory inhabited
by the Yanomami people in the Amazon rainforest, spanning Brazil and Venezuela /// Longstanding
issue in the area for illegal gold mining, attracting the attention of miners for many years.
5. Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF): India

has preferred US-led IPEF over China-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership(RCEP) ///
USA launched IPEF in 2022 as an alternative to China’s RCEP /// 14 member countries excluding
China /// It removes tariffs and is flexible /// Four pillars: trade, supply chains, clean energy and
infrastructure, and tax and anti-corruption /// India has joined three pillars, excluding trade, as it
finalizes its digital framework and privacy laws /// In 2019, India walked out of the RCEP /// RCEP
members: China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and ASEAN /// Accounts for 30% of the
world’s population and GDP, and includes major Asian economies.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
6. 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC): Jointly organized by Bangladesh‘s

foreign ministry and the India Foundation /// Theme: Peace Prosperity and Partnership for a Resilient
Future /// Forum for discussing economic development and peace and stability in the countries of
the Indian Ocean region (IOR) /// First IOC held in 2016 in Singapore and has become the flagship
consultative forum for regional affairs /// Provides a platform for countries to deliberate on the
framework of Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) /// SAGAR was launched in 2016 to
promote cooperation and create a peaceful and stable environment among state actors in the region.
Indian Ocean Power Competition
7. International Organization of Migration (IOM): Amy Pope from US

has been elected as new Director General of International Organization for Migration (IOM) /// First
woman to hold this position /// Established in 1951, IOM is leading intergovernmental organization in
field of migration /// Part of UN system, as a related organization /// Guided by principles enshrined
in Charter of UN, including upholding human rights for all /// World Migration Report is published
every year /// 175 member, India is a member of IOM.
Human Rights Issues
8. Silkworm Eating Strategy: Chinese strategy to capture Taiwan through frequent

incursions /// Coined by Hungarian communist politician Matyas Rakosi to justify the actions
of the Hungarian Communist Party in obtaining complete power in Hungary /// Refers to gradual
encroachments made by one country into another territory /// It is similar to the Western tactic of
‘salami-slicing’ where opposition territory is dominated piece by piece /// Involves small military
operations that are not significant enough to lead to war.
Contention over South China Sea
9. Rasht-Astara Railway Link: Russia & Iran agreed to build the railway link /// Under
INSTC (International North–South Transport Corridor) /// 162 km connection between Rasht (Iran)
and Astara (Azerbaijan) /// Objective: To diversify global traffic flows and cut travel times and costs ///
Connection of Russian ports on the Baltic Sea with Iranian ports in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf
/// 7,200-kilometer Multi-Mode Transit System for moving cargo between India, Iran, Azerbaijan,
Russia, Central Asia, and Europe /// Alternate route for India to connect Central Asia /// Bypasses
Suez Canal route – Reduces transit time by 40%, while decreasing freight costs by 30% /// Includes
Chabahar Port, which offers trade opportunities for India, Iran, and Afghanistan with Central Asian
countries /// Baltic, Nordic, and Arctic regions will be connected /// Creation of diverse supply
chains across Eurasia through the INSTC could bring about transformative development in the region.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Russia
10. Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC): Third

summit of FIPIC was recently held at Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea /// FIPIC is a forum for
cooperation between India and Pacific island countries /// Established in 2014 by India, it enhances
engagement with the Pacific region /// Its membership includes 14 Pacific nations such as Fiji, Papua
New Guinea, and Vanuatu /// India’s commitment to engaging with these nations led to FIPIC’s
creation /// First summit, held in Fiji in 2014, aimed to strengthen relations and promote inclusive
development /// Recent FIPIC-3 summit, PM Modi highlighted the need to view these small islands
as “large ocean states“.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Pacific Island Nations
11. Route of Development Project: Iraq has launched a $17 billion project /// Aiming
to connect a major commodities port on its southern coast to the border with Turkey, with the goal
of transforming the country’s economy and establishing it as a transit hub between Asia and Europe
/// Aims to revitalize Iraq’s aged transport network and open up development opportunities in vast
areas of the country, with an expected completion time of 2029 /// It will link the Grand Faw Port
in Iraq’s oil-rich south to Turkey /// Incorporates high-speed trains, local industry connections, and
potentially oil and gas pipelines /// Would benefit India by providing a shorter and more efficient
trade corridor /// Reducing transportation time and costs for Indian goods to reach European
markets.
OBOR Initiative
Security Issues
1. UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project: India aided
Coastal surveillance radar system inaugurated in Maldives /// Announced in February 2021 /// UTF
is a strategically located atoll near the capital Male /// Major step in growing defence cooperation
between India and Maldives /// Allegations on India: project was a cover for Indian military presence
in the Maldives /// “India Out” campaign was launched in response /// India has financed the Greater
Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), a $500 million project, to build a 6.74 km bridge.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Maldives
2. Pokhran-II Nuclear explosions were successfully conducted on May 11, 1998 as part of
Operation Shakti /// India demonstrated its capability to build fission and thermonuclear weapons
with yields up to 200 kilotons /// Pokhran-I: In the 1970s, India conducted its first nuclear test,
known as Pokhran-I /// Operation Smiling Buddha led by Vikram Sarabhai, India’s nuclear technology
expanded significantly /// Pokhran-I was presented as a “peaceful nuclear explosion” with limited
military implications /// Atomic Energy Commission by Rajiv Gandhi– He authorized the AEC and
DRDO to establish India’s nuclear deterrent in 1988-89 /// By 1990, India had a fully developed nuclear
weapons program approved by subsequent Prime Ministers /// In 1995, Prime Minister PV Narasimha
Rao authorized preparations for a nuclear test /// Finally Vajpayee government conducted the historic
Shakti tests, declaring India as a nuclear weapons state after Pokhran-II.
3. India’s Nuclear Liability Law: The issues regarding Civil Liability for Nuclear
Damage Act (CLNDA) continue /// CLNDA Passed in 2010 governs the liability and compensation
in the event of a nuclear incident or accident in India /// To fulfill India’s international obligations
under the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), to which India
is a signatory /// Key Provisions: To put in place a speedy compensation mechanism for victims
of a nuclear accident /// Strict and no-fault liability on the operator of the nuclear plant, where it
will be held liable for damage regardless of any fault on its part /// Monetary Limit ₹1,500 crore and
requires the operator to cover liability through insurance or other financial security /// Government’s
Responsibility: If damage exceed ₹1,500 crore, CLNDA expects the government to step in for rupee
equivalent of 300 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) or about ₹2,100 to ₹2,300 crore /// Imposes
strict and no-fault liability on operators, but there have been debates on whether the liability should
also be extended to suppliers /// CLNDA does not address cross-border liability and compensation.
4. Defence Exercises in the news: Samudra Shakti-23: India-Indonesia bilateral

exercise /// Jal Rahat: Joint flood relief exercise by Indian Army, Sashastra Seema Bal, NDRF, DDMA,
and police in Assam /// Sudarshan Shakti 2023: Conducted by Indian Army’s Sapta Shakti Command
along the western borders in Rajasthan and Punjab /// Maritime Exercise Al Mohed Al Hindi 23:
Bilateral exercise between Indian Navy and Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF).
Indian Army Updates
5. Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958: Allows armed forces to maintain
public order in “disturbed areas /// ” They can use force, open fire, arrest without a warrant, and ban
firearms if reasonable suspicion exists /// Enacted in 1958 amidst northeastern states’ insurgency ///
Offers “special powers” to Army, Air Force, and Central Paramilitary forces /// Special powers include
using force, destroying structures, arresting without a warrant, and entering and searching premises
without a warrant /// Designation of disturbed areas can be done by the Centre, State Governor, or
UT administrator /// Issues with AFSPA include potential misuse of lethal force and rights violations
/// 2012 Justice Verma Committee noted the neglect of legal protection for women in conflict zones
/// Critics also point to a lack of accountability for armed forces’ excesses.
Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act
Enviro & Biodiversity

1. Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project: Aims to develop Great Nicobar Island, the
southernmost island in the A&N Islands, over 30 years /// With an area of 910 sq km, Great Nicobar
is home to two national parks, a biosphere reserve, and tribal peoples /// The A&N Islands comprise
about 836 islands divided into two groups by the Ten Degree Channel, and Indira Point marks India’s
southernmost point, located less than 150 km from the northernmost island of the Indonesian
archipelago /// The GNI Project involves constructing a port, airport, power plant, and township on
160 sq. km of land, including 130 sq. km of primary forest /// It will enable Great Nicobar to participate
in the regional and global maritime economy, while the port and airport will serve both military and
civilian functions /// To cater to tourists, several urban amenities such as roads, public transport, water
supply, waste management facilities, and hotels will be developed.
Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.
2. Formation of Cyclone Mocha: Mocha (named by Yemen) formed in Bay of

Bengal /// Cyclone is a low-pressure system that forms over warm waters /// Characterized by
rising warm air, which cools and forms clouds, leading to rainfall /// Rotation: counterclockwise in
the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere /// Requirements: warm sea
surface temperatures, atmospheric instability, high humidity, Coriolis force, a pre-existing low-
level disturbance, and low vertical wind shear /// Naming: Finalized by the WMO/ESCAP Panel
after suggestions from countries /// Naming cyclones make it easier for people to remember and
communicate about them.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
3. Alligator Gar: Rare type of fish was found for the first time in Dal Lake, Srinagar /// Scientifically
known as: Atractosteus spatula /// Found in the freshwater habitats of Central and North America ///
Can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh over 300 pounds /// Resembles to an alligator (crocodile) ///
Ancient specie has a fossil record of over 100 million years to the Early Cretaceous period /// Can live
for several decades /// IUCN Status: Least Concerned.
New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered
4. Red Pandas: Recently spotted in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang /// IUCN Status: Vulnerable
/// CITES: Appendix I /// Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I /// Geographical Coverage: India,
Nepal, Bhutan and the northern mountains of Myanmar and southern China /// 50% of the red panda’s
habitat is in Eastern Himalayas /// It is also the State animal of Sikkim /// Red pandas are shy, solitary
and arboreal animals and considered an indicator species for ecological change
New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered
5. Palghat Gap: Originated due to continental shelf drift after the separation of Australia
and Africa from the Gondwana landmass /// 100 million years old, formed due splitting of India and
Madagascar led to the formation of the Gap /// Characterized as dry evergreen forest, contrasting with
the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats /// Gateway to Kerala facilitating transportation between
Coimbatore and Palakkad /// Bharathappuzha river serves as a transportation route /// Shear zone
running east to west representing a weak region in the earth’s crust and explaining occasional tremors
in the Coimbatore region /// Gap exhibits distinct flora and fauna on either side due to ancient river
systems or past incursions of sea /// Differences in mitochondrial DNA among elephant populations
residing in different sanctuaries within the region, such as the Nilgiris, Anamalai, and Periyar.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
6. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): EU and India are

working on resolving a trade issue related to the EU’s CBAM /// CBAM law will authorize the EU to
charge Carbon Border Tax (CBT) on imports of steel, aluminum, fertilizer, electricity, cement,
and hydrogen /// Implemented from January 2026 /// CBT equalizes the cost of carbon emissions
between domestic and foreign producers /// It aims to address carbon leakage and discourage
emissions as a trade-related measure /// EU’s plan to reduce GHGs emissions by at least 55% by 2030
/// India criticized CBAM as a trade-restrictive policy /// India has expressed concerns at international
forums, emphasizing non-discriminatory treatment and warning against protectionist practices ///
Implementing poses a significant challenge to India’s metal export sector, with potential tariffs of
20-35% for steel and aluminum.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.
7. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park: Located in UT of Jammu and

Kashmir, is renowned for its diverse array of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered
species /// Snow Leopards are now slowly vanishing /// Situated in the central crystalline belt of the
Himalayas, it is located in high altitudes, specifically in the sub-alpine and alpine zones /// It covers
the catchment area of Kiber, Nanth, and Kiyar Nallas, which all drain southwest into the Marwah
River, locally known as Mariv Sudir /// Marwah later joins the Chenab /// Flora: Fir, Himalayan Yew,
Deodar, Blue Pine, or Kail and Spruce /// Fauna: Snow leopard, Brown bear, Himalayan musk deer,
Hangul, Ibex, Wild boar, Indian muntjac, Serow Capricornis, Himalayan Tahr, Bharal etc.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts
8. Ludhiana Gas Leak: Hydrogen Sulfide is a colourless gas with a pungent rotten egg
odor at low concentrations /// A neurotoxin, with concentrations above 50 ppm life-threatening and
above 700 ppm being fatal /// Binds with iron in mitochondrial enzymes, affecting cellular respiration
/// Highly flammable and can cause various health effects at different levels of exposure /// Symptoms
range: Eye and respiratory tract irritation to headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even coma or death ///
Naturally occurs in sewers and enclosed spaces like manholes /// Industries use: Oil and gas refining,
mining, tanning, pulp and paper processing, and rayon manufacturing.
Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.
9. Antarctic Overturning Circulation (OC): Recent research indicates that

the AOC a global network of ocean currents, is slowing down at a faster rate than previously
predicted /// OC refers to the large-scale circulation pattern in the global ocean /// Involves both
surface and deep ocean currents /// It redistributes heat, carbon, and nutrients worldwide /// It
operates globally /// Driven by density differences /// Cold, dense water sinks in certain regions,
while warmer, less dense water rises in others /// Key components include Antarctic Bottom Water,
North Atlantic Deep Water, Thermohaline Circulation, and Deep Ocean Currents /// OC is important
for heat redistribution, carbon cycle assistance, and nutrient cycling /// OC slowdown can cause
climatic changes, nutrient disruption, and de-oxygenation /// Melting Antarctic ice disrupts OC by
the formation of Antarctic bottom water, impacting the circulation.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.
Science Tech
1. Molecular Motor: Tiny protein machines of cells to organize their interior through
directed movements /// Operate using ATP (adenosine triphosphate), energy currency of a cell ///
Researchers have discovered a novel molecular system with an alternative chemical energy source ///
Resembles a classical Stirling engine, and aids in distributing cargo to membrane-bound organelles
/// Two components Rab5 and EEA1 used, two differently sized proteins, and is driven by GTP
(guanosine triphosphate) instead of ATP /// GTP hydrolysis is facilitated by GTPases, with Rab5 being
one such enzyme involved in the process /// EEA1 can regain its rigid shape through GTP hydrolysis,
drawing energy from this reaction.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences
2. Carbon Dating: Carbon Dating is used to determine the age of organic materials /// It
relies on the radioactive decay (beta decay) of Carbon-14 (C-14) /// C-14 has a known half-life of
5,730 ± 40 years /// By measuring the ratio of C-12 to C-14 in the atmosphere and in organic remains,
scientists can estimate the age /// Limitations: not used for non-living things like rocks /// Accuracy
decreases for objects older than 40,000-50,000 years due to the decreasing amount of detectable C-14
/// Alternative technologies: potassium-argon and uranium-thorium-lead dating.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News
3. LockBit Ransomware: Ransomware found to be targeting Mac devices /// First

reported in 2019 as “abcd” virus, due to the file extension used when encrypting victim’s files ///
Designed to infiltrate victims’ systems and encrypt important files /// Categorized as a “crypto-
virus” due to its requests for payment in cryptocurrency to decrypt files on the victim’s device ///
Maintains a dark web portal to recruit members and release data of victims who refuse to meet their
demands, as part of their business model.
Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc
4. Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT): A baby was born in UK with

three persons’ DNA using MRT /// Mitochondria, organelles found in most eukaryotic cells, have a
double membrane structure and are involved in ATP (Adenosine Tri Phosphate) through aerobic
respiration /// Discovered by Albert von Kolliker in 1857 /// Powerhouse of a living cell /// Varied
presence or absence in multicellular organisms /// Possess own genome /// MRT is a technique used
to replace defective mitochondria for the prevention or alleviation of disease /// Primarily utilized
when mitochondrial diseases are carried by mothers /// Procedures involved: Egg retrieval, nuclear
transfer, fertilization, and embryo transfer /// Used for addressing fertility challenges and mitigating
disease transmission.
Surrogacy in India
5. Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): 250th contract has been

recently signed by iDEX /// unFirst der Mission DefSpace /// Launched in 2018, iDEX is an ecosystem
that aims to foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace Defence
Innovation Organisation (DIO) funds manages iDEX /// Funding and grants are provided to Micro
Small and Medium Enterprises /// Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO)prises (MSMEs), start-ups,
individual innovators, R&D institutes /// iDEX- Prime has objective of supporting projects requiring
support ranging from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore /// Won prestigious PM Award for Public Policy in
Innovation Category for the year 2021.
Innovation Ecosystem in India
6. Worldcoin- the Iris Scanning Cryptocurrency: OpenAI is reportedly

raising $100 million for Worldcoin /// Utilizes the Orb device for iris scans to verify uniqueness and
humanity /// World App developed by Worldcoin enables users to make payments, purchases, and
transfers using Worldcoin and other digital assets /// In the first half of 2023, the project is planned to
be launched, distributing a total of 10 billion tokens, with 80% allocated to users /// A cryptocurrency
is a digital asset stored on computerised databases using blockchain technology /// These digital
coins are recorded in digital ledgers using strong cryptography to keep them secure.
Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges
7. ASTR- AI Solution for Facial Recognition: ASTR acronym for Artificial

Intelligence and Facial Recognition powered Solution for Telecom SIM Subscriber Verification ///
Developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) /// In 2012, DoT ordered telecom
operators to share subscriber database, including users’ pictures, with the department /// Design
was carried out by the DoT’s unit in Haryana between April 2021 and July 2021 /// ASTR employs
convolutional neural network (CNN) models to encode human faces in subscribers’ images /// ASTR
determines two faces to be identical if they match at least 97 /// 5% /// It can detect all SIMs associated
with a suspected face from a database of 1 crore images in under 10 seconds /// After matching the
faces, the algorithm utilizes “fuzzy logic” to find approximate matches for subscriber names /// DoT
permits individuals to have up to 9 legitimate mobile phone connections using a single identity proof.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology
8. Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START):

ISRO announced START Initiative /// To enable Indian students to become professionals in space
science and technology /// Programme Domains: Space science, including astronomy and astrophysics,
heliophysics and sunearth interaction, instrumentation and aeronomy /// Aimed at PG and final year
UG students of physical sciences and technology /// Academic institutions can submit applications
for the programme through the Jigyasa portal /// Jigyasa is a student-scientist connect programme
implemented by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with Kendriya
Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS).
ISRO Missions and Discoveries
9. NAVIC (Navigation by Indian Constellation): ISRO launched NVS-01,

the first satellite of India’s second-generation NavIC system /// Heaviest satellite in the NavIC
constellation, weighing 2,232 kg /// Launched using GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle)
rocket /// Equipped with Rubidium atomic clock (indigenously developed) for precise location
determination /// Life of over 12 years, longer than the first-generation satellites /// Operates on
L1 frequency, enhancing interoperability with other satellite-based navigation systems /// Provides
real-time positioning and timing services over India and a region approximately 1,500 km around
the mainland /// NavIC, previously known IRNSS, consists of seven satellites /// Three satellites
are placed in geostationary orbit, while four are placed in inclined geosynchronous orbit /// NavIC offers
two services: Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian users and Restricted Service (RS) for strategic
users /// Operates in 2 bands: L5 (1176 /// 45 MHz) and S-band (2498 /// 028 MHz) frequencies ///
Other global satellite-based navigation systems: GPS (USA), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (EU), Beidou
(China), and QZSS (Japan).
10. Human Pangenome Map (HPM) Recently published in the Nature journal ///
Describes genomes from 47 anonymous individuals (19 men and 28 women) mainly from Africa, the
Caribbean, Americas, East Asia, and Europe /// Comprehensive, error-free, and represented as a graph
/// Genome contains genes and spaces between genes that make up chromosomes /// Chromosomes
are composed of DNA, a long string made up of nucleotides or bases (A, T, G, and C) /// Genome
sequencing is used to determine the precise order and arrangement of the bases in chromosomes ///
Reference genome is a standard map for scientists to compare and understand differences in newly
sequenced genomes /// First reference genome, created in 2001 /// Helped scientists discover disease-
related genes, understand genetic aspects of diseases like cancer, and develop new diagnostic tests ///
In HPM, each chromosome is depicted as a bamboo stem with nodes representing similar sequences
and internodes representing genetic variations /// HPM enables a better understanding of genetic
differences, explaining diversity and studying genetic variations contributing to health conditions ///
Current map doesn’t include genomes from Indians /// Still help in comparing and mapping Indian
genomes with reference.
11. Calcium-41 for Radiometric Dating: Suggested as an alternative to Carbon-

14 for determining the age of fossilized bones and rocks /// Scientists have proposed a technique called
Atom-Trap Trace Analysis (ATTA) /// Detects Calcium-41, a rare isotope, /// Calcium-41 is a long-
lived radioisotope of calcium with a half-life of 99,400 years /// Formed in the Earth’s crust when
cosmic rays interact with calcium atoms in soil or rocks /// ATTA relies on laser manipulation and
detection of neutral C-41 atoms /// Researchers spotted one calcium-41 atom in every 10^16 calcium
atoms with 12% precision in seawater /// ATTA with C-41 opens the possibility of extending it
to study other metal isotopes like argon-39, krypton-81, and krypton-85 /// Also be used to study
how long rocks have been covered by ice in different climatic conditions /// Radiometric dating
determines the age of rocks, minerals, and fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes
/// Working Principle: certain isotopes decay over time into more stable forms /// Different isotopes
have different half-lives /// Carbon-14 is effective for organic materials up to approximately 50,000
years old /// However, carbon-14 has a limited range due to its 5,700-year half-life.
12. Neanderthals influence on Human Nose: Recent study identified Genetic

loci associated with human nose being influenced by Neanderthal ancestry /// Analyzed 2D images
and measured distances between facial landmarks in over 6,000 Latin Americans /// 42 new genetic
loci identified associated with the nose /// 1q32 is one specific locus /// Interbreeding events
between Neanderthals and Denisovans, have left lasting genetic imprints on our species /// Non-
African populations today carry about 1-2% of Neanderthal DNA, affecting various traits and disease
susceptibilities /// Lived in Eurasia, Neanderthals are closely related to modern humans /// Lived
400,000 to 40,000 years ago /// Place: Dussel River Valley in Germany /// Features: Robust build,
distinct physical features, and were skilled hunters and toolmakers /// Culture: Symbolic behavior,
burial rituals, and artistic expressions.
13. Nervous System in Comb Jellies: Comb jellies, known as ctenophores, are
unique marine life. Not true jellyfish, they’re distinctive and luminescent. Recent study found no
synapses, just a continuous plasma membrane. Challenges previous knowledge from the 1950s of
neurons being separate cells. Ctenophores, possibly an early animal lineage, have a syncytial nerve net.
Genome sequencing suggests early branching in animal evolution. Evolution of their nervous system
is mysterious. Leonid Moroz proposed a theory: independent evolution of their nervous system.
Absent classical neurotransmitter pathways and common neuronal genes hint at this. Reliance on
cilia, not muscles, might have led to a different signal conduction system.
14. Supercomputing Capabilities Boosted by India: The installation

of an 18-petaflop system this year will significantly enhance India’s supercomputing capabilities ///
Complex mathematical calculations, particularly in weather forecasting, will be improved through
this development /// Measure performance in floating-point operations per second (FLOPS) ///
Establishment of the C-DAC in 1980s response to technology embargoes /// 1991 PARAM 800,
was unveiled, the world’s second-fastest supercomputer at that time /// National Supercomputing
Mission (NSM), launched in 2015, aims to create a network of supercomputers across academic
and research institutions /// Pratyush and Mihir, India’s most powerful civilian supercomputers,
became operational in 2018 with a combined capacity of 6.8 petaflops /// Procured through a deal
signed between the Indian and French governments in 2018 /// Frontier-Cray system is fastest high-
performance computing system is the in the US /// India’s ‘AIRAWAT’ achieved 75th ranking at the
International Supercomputing Conference (ISC 2023) in Germany /// Has a speed of 13,170 teraflops
and is installed at C-DAC in Pune, manufactured by Netweb Technologies.
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes
15. XPoSat: Scheduled launch this year /// Testing is nearing completion, and mission is in its
advanced stages, /// X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, is India’s polarimetry mission aimed at studying
various dynamics of astronomical sources in extreme conditions /// It is a collaboration between ISRO
and Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru /// Scientific payloads for low Earth orbit include
Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays (POLIX) and X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing (SPECT) /// POLIX
enables measurement of polarimetry parameters in medium X-ray energy range /// SPECT provides
timing and spectroscopic information within X-ray photon energy range /// Offers a diagnostic
tool for comprehending emission processes from astronomical sources such as black holes, neutron
stars, active galactic nuclei, and pulsar wind nebulae /// Help understanding of astronomical emission
processes.
16. Foucault Pendulum: New Parliament building features a Foucault pendulum /// It
demonstrates Earth’s rotation /// It is a heavy object hanging freely, swinging in any direction ///
Over time, the pendulum’s orientation changes due to Earth’s motion /// Foucault performed this
experiment in 1851 /// He used a 28-kg iron ball on a 67-m wire /// It provided visual evidence of
Earth’s rotation /// Experiment revealed that the pendulum’s plane doesn’t change, but the ground
does /// It returns to its original plane in 24 hours at Poles /// At other latitudes, it takes longer due
to misalignment with Earth’s axis /// Rotation rate and direction depend on latitude /// Parliament’s
pendulum is the largest in India, 22m tall and 36 kg in weight /// It symbolizes India’s integration
with the cosmos /// At New Delhi’s latitude, it completes one rotation in 49 hours and 59 minutes.
Art and Culture

1. Zafar Mahal: Located in Mehrauli near New Delhi /// Built in the 18th and 19th centuries ///
It is a combination of Mahal constructed by Akbar Shah II, and Hathi Gate built by Bahadur Shah
Zafar /// Hathi Gate derives its name from the fact that it is large enough for an elephant with a houdah
(the seat on which people sit atop an elephant) to pass through /// The complex boasts of the stunning
Moti Masjid, made of white marble, and several majestic royal tombs, including an empty one meant
for Bahadur Shah Zafar /// The palace played a crucial role during the Phool Walon ki Sair festival held
after the monsoon season /// The area also houses many fascinating tombs, notably Adham Khan and
Chaumachi Khan.
2. Bihan Mela of Kondh Tribals: Since 2019, the Kondh tribe in Nayagarh district,
Odisha has been celebrating the Bihan Mela to promote the revival of indigenous farming /// Event
involves collection and preservation of indigenous seeds /// Farmers from 40 villages in Dasapalla block
Nayagarh district, Odisha participate in the festival /// After harvesting kharif crops, women collect
the seeds of indigenous varieties and store them in earthen pots /// On a designated day in December,
they decorate the pots with red and white motifs /// Place them in a bamboo basket and carry them
on their heads to the village where the fair is being organized /// Accompanied by men beating drums
and other traditional instruments/// The seed festival was introduced to help farmers return to their
traditional ways of farming, like mixed-cropping, which is more resilient to erratic rainfall and pest
attacks/// Khond people: Hill and jungle dwellers in the state of Odisha, who speak Kui and its southern
dialect, Kuwi, of the Dravidian language family /// Although most Khond are now rice cultivators,
there are still groups, such as the Kuttia Khond, who practice slash-and-burn agriculture/// Niyamgiri
hills in Odisha are inhabited by the Dongria Khond, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News
3. Thirunelli Temple: Restoration work at 600-year-old ‘Vilakkumadom’, at the Sree

Mahavishnu Temple at Thirunelli, Kerala /// Vilakkumadom structure, made of exquisite granite, is
located at the Sree Mahavishnu Temple in Thirunelly, Wayanad district /// Launched by king of Coorg
without the permission of the temple’s custodian, Kottayam Raja /// Later, Kottayam Raja ordered
construction work, and the structure remained untouched afterwards /// : The temple is dedicated to
Lord Vishnu /// Also known as Sahyamala Kshetram /// Architecture follows the traditional Kerala
style.
History- Important places, persons in news
4. Jantar Mantar in New Delhi: ASI forms expert committee for conservation,
preservation, restoration, and functionality of Delhi Jantar Mantar observatory /// Built by Maharaja
Jai Singh II for accurate astronomical observations /// Used to study planetary movements and time
differences /// He was the founder of Jaipur and ruler of the Rajput State of Amber /// Observatories
built at different locations to improve accuracy through comparisons /// Construction timeline: Delhi
observatory (1724), Jaipur observatory (1738) /// Present conditions: Mathura observatory no longer
exists, Jaipur observatory houses a variety of instruments /// Major Yantras at Jantar Mantar- (1) Rama
Yantra: Measures altitude of stars /// (2) Samrat Yantra: Large sundial used for time calculations /// (3)
Jaya Prakash: Helps determine the position of the Sun and other celestial bodies /// (4) Mishra Yantra:
Mixed instrument used to depict noon time in various cities and their local time.
5. Shilabhattarika: Pune-based Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI) decoded

ancient Copper plates, revealing insights about ancient Sanskrit poetess Shilabhattarika /// Dating
back to reign of Badami Chalukyan ruler Vijayaditya (696-733 CE), consisted of five plates held
together by a Varaha seal, emblem of Badami Chalukyas /// Shilabhattarika, believed to be a Chalukyan
princess and possibly daughter of Pulakeshin II, lived in 7th century CE /// Her works adhered to
Panchali style, emphasizing a harmonious balance between words and meaning /// Rajashekhara, a
Sanskrit poet-critic from 9th-10th century CE praised Shilabhattarika for her elegant compositions,
who served as court poet of Gurjara-Pratiharas, /// Key women among Nayanars, a group of poet-saints
from 7th and 8th century CE, were Karaikkal Ammaiyar, Mangaiyarkkarasi, and Isaignaniyar /// Andal,
only female among 12 Alvars, composed two Tamil works called Tiruppavai and Nacciyar Tirumoli ///
Akka Mahadevi, a poet from 12th century BCE, wrote in Kannada using vacana form, a rhythmic prose
poem style /// Atukuri Molla, daughter of a potter, wrote first Telugu Ramayana in 15th century CE.
6. Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine: Located in the Mechukha Valley of Arunachal Pradesh
/// Considered holy and holds religious importance for the Memba Buddhist community /// It was
sanctified by Guru Padmasambhava during his exploration of the area in the 8th century /// Since
1274 AD, it has been a place of worship and pilgrimage /// Annually in March, the shrine attracts
hundreds of Buddhists who visit it as part of a pilgrimage.
7. Sengol installed at new Parliament: A historic golden sceptre called Sengol is

installed near the Speaker’s seat in new Parliament /// Sengol, derived from the Tamil word “Semmai,”
meaning “Righteousness” /// Symbolizes India’s independence, sovereignty, cultural heritage, and
diversity /// Associated with Chola Empire, a long-ruling dynasty that influenced South India ///
Cholas governed from the 9th to the 13th century CE, excelling in military strength, maritime trade,
administration, cultural patronage, and temple architecture /// Cholas tradition to mark succession
and legitimacy, with the Sengol ceremony conducted by a high priest /// Mountbatten asked
Jawaharlal Nehru for a symbolic ceremony to represent the transfer of power from British to Indian
hands /// He consulted C Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, who proposed adopting the Chola
tradition as a suitable ceremony /// Sengol presented to PM Nehru by Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam,
a Saivaite monastery, on August 14, 1947, crafted by the renowned jeweler Vummidi Bangaru Chetty
/// At the top of the sceptre, a hand-carved Nandi, symbolizing “Nyaya” (Justice).
Modern India History

1. Santiniketan: Home of Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate and prolific writer
/// Recommended for inclusion in World Heritage List /// Renowned cultural and heritage place
in Birbhum District, West Bengal /// Visva-Bharati University was established here in 1921 ///
Campus adorned with exquisite sculptures, frescoes, and paintings by renowned artists /// Fairs and
festivals celebrated: Poush Mela, Joydev Mela, and Basanta Utsav /// Unique celebrations in August:
Briksharopan, Halakarshan, and Varshamangal /// If selected, it would be the second cultural symbol
from West Bengal after ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ (2021) /// World Heritage sites are areas or objects
recognized by UNESCO for their “outstanding universal value” /// Adopted in 1972, India is NOT a
member to World Heritage Committee.

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MAY 2023

THIS MONTHLY COMPILATION ENSURES:

5. Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN): RBI participated in

6. London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR): Represents the average interest

7. Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): India Post is expected to

8. Fertilizer Subsidy in India: Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme, implemented since

11. Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) Charges: Complete waiver

12. Business Ready (B-READY) rankings by World Bank: World Bank

14. Global Depository Receipts (GDRs): GDR is a foreign currency-denominated

17. Evergreening of Loans: Evergreen loans do not require repayment of principal

2. Tele-MANAS Initiative: MANAS= Mental Health Assistance and Networking across

6. Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS): Developed by the NPCI

8. Sanchar Saathi Portal: Ministry of Communications launched the Sanchar Saathi

9. National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA): UP awarded the Assembly a certificate

11. Kudumbashree Scheme: 25th-anniversary celebrations was recently inaugurated by

4. Emergency Provisions under Article 355: It is a part of emergency provisions

5. Sovereignty of India: Preamble mentions the concept of sovereignty /// Fundamental

8. SC guidelines on granting BAIL: Constitutional principle of personal liberty

13. Anuradha Bhasin Guidelines on Internet Shutdown: Freedom

15. Supreme Court’s Maharashtra Assembly Verdict: SC has recently

16. Krishna Water Dispute: Originates in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, spans

17. Delhi Governance Ordinance: An Ordinance by the central government

18. GANHRI defers accreditation of NHRC: The accreditation of National

2. Washington Declaration: Recent agreement signed by US and South Korea to

3. International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO): Agency of UN

4. Yanomami Territory: Brazilian government expediting the expulsion of illegal miners

5. Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF): India

6. 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC): Jointly organized by Bangladesh‘s

7. International Organization of Migration (IOM): Amy Pope from US

8. Silkworm Eating Strategy: Chinese strategy to capture Taiwan through frequent

10. Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC): Third

4. Defence Exercises in the news: Samudra Shakti-23: India-Indonesia bilateral

Enviro & Biodiversity

2. Formation of Cyclone Mocha: Mocha (named by Yemen) formed in Bay of

6. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): EU and India are

7. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park: Located in UT of Jammu and

9. Antarctic Overturning Circulation (OC): Recent research indicates that

3. LockBit Ransomware: Ransomware found to be targeting Mac devices /// First

4. Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT): A baby was born in UK with

5. Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): 250th contract has been

6. Worldcoin- the Iris Scanning Cryptocurrency: OpenAI is reportedly

7. ASTR- AI Solution for Facial Recognition: ASTR acronym for Artificial

8. Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START):

9. NAVIC (Navigation by Indian Constellation): ISRO launched NVS-01,

11. Calcium-41 for Radiometric Dating: Suggested as an alternative to Carbon-

12. Neanderthals influence on Human Nose: Recent study identified Genetic

14. Supercomputing Capabilities Boosted by India: The installation

Art and Culture

3. Thirunelli Temple: Restoration work at 600-year-old ‘Vilakkumadom’, at the Sree

5. Shilabhattarika: Pune-based Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI) decoded

7. Sengol installed at new Parliament: A historic golden sceptre called Sengol is

Modern India History

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