Notes Oct 2023

OCTOBER 2023
1. Cover multiple sources DAILY: The Hindu, IE, PIB, etc.

2. Accurate news selection. what to skip is as important
as what to read.
3. Exercise good judgment for topics requiring additional
reading.
4. Concise and revision-ready notes.
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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - September 2023 Page No. 2
CONTENTS
Subject No. of Topics

Economics 26
Governance 11
Polity 7
International Relations 12
Security Issues 5
Enviro & Biodiversity 11
Science Tech 16
Art and Culture 6
Modern India History 2
Economics
1. Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI): Surged to 5 months low /// Released by
S&P Global survey-based measure providing insights on changes in business variables compared to
the previous month /// Informs decision-makers, analysts, and investors about current and future
business conditions /// Separately Calculated for manufacturing and services sectors , with a com-
posite index also constructed /// Scores range from 0 to 100, where above 50 indicates expansion,
below 50 denotes contraction, and 50 represents no change /// A higher previous month’s PMI
compared to the current month suggests economic contraction /// PMI, released monthly, serves as a
indicator of economic activity /// IHS Markit compiles PMI for over 40 economies worldwide.
Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.
2. 5th Positive Indigenization List (PIL): 5th PIL unveiled comprising 98 items
for armed service procurement from domestic suppliers /// Includes: items exclusively procured from
domestic manufacturers, fostering indigenous defense production /// Part of Make in India: to reduce
reliance on imported arms and promote local defense equipment manufacturing /// Introduced in
2020 Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) /// Focuses on import substitution for major systems,
platforms, weapon systems, sensors, and munitions /// Aims to generate firm orders within 5 to 10
years /// Items covered: infantry combat vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, precision kill systems,
radars, and more.
Make in India: Challenges & Prospects
3. PM Ujjwala Scheme: LPG cylinder subsidy increase from ₹200 to ₹300 un-
der PM Ujjwala Scheme /// Applies to 12 refills per year for beneficiaries /// PMUY launched
in May 2016 to provide deposit-free LPG connections to adult women in poor households /// Ob-
jectives: Promote clean cooking fuel (LPG) for women’s and children’s health, empower ru-
ral women through connections in their names /// Ujjwala 2.0 (2021-22) aiming to provide de-
posit-free LPG connections to more low-income families /// Total beneficiaries: As of March
1, 2023, there are 9.59 crore PMUY beneficiaries. Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.
4. Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant: First shipment of Russian uranium arrives at

Bangladesh’s Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant /// Rooppur plant situated on Ganges River eastern bank
of the, 160 km from Dhaka /// Bangladesh’s first nuclear power facility /// Part of an Indo-Russian
agreement for atomic energy projects in third nations /// Supported by IAEA (International Atomic
Energy Agency) for safe and sustainable nuclear power adoption /// IAEA is an intergovernmental
organization for nuclear science and tech cooperation, established in 1957 /// IAEA’s Milestones Ap-
proach assists countries in planning their first nuclear power plant /// Headquarters: Vienna, Austria.
Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament
5. Pusa-44 Paddy: Punjab bans PUSA-44 paddy variety /// Developed by ICAR in 1993, it
gained wide popularity in Punjab /// Covered 70-80% of cultivation area by the end of 2010s /// Yields
85-100 mann (34-40 quintals) per acre compared to 28-30 quintals for other varieties /// 160 days to
mature, requiring 5-6 extra irrigation cycles /// Aim to conserve irrigation water and address ground-
water depletion /// Exacerbates stubble burning issue, generating 2% more stubble /// ICAR is an
autonomous organization under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare /// Established on
July 16, 1929, to coordinate and manage agricultural research and education /// Oversees 113 ICAR
institutes and 71 agricultural universities across India /// Headquarter: Pusa, New Delhi.
Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc.
6. Card-on-File Tokenisation (CoFT): RBI proposed Card-on-File Tokenisa-

tion (CoFT) /// CoFT replaces card details with a unique token for card, token requestor, and device
/// Enhances security by not disclosing actual card details during transactions /// Cardholders gener-
ally input card details ex. CVV, OTP for each online purchase /// Card-on-File transaction authoriz-
es merchants to securely store payment information /// Simplifies checkout process for consumers,
providing convenience and efficiency.
RBI Notifications
7. Economic Nobel for Gender Gap Research: Awarded to Claudia Gol-

din of Harvard University for Gender Gap in the Labor Market research /// Third woman to receive
Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences after Elinor Ostrom (2009) and Esther Duflo (2019) /// Authored
books: “Understanding the Gender Gap” (1990) and “Career & Family” (2021) /// Nobel citation:
Comprehensive account of women’s earnings and labor market participation /// Causes of gender
pay gap despite women’s higher education /// Traditional employment in agriculture and cottage
industries, with industrialization challenges /// Growth in services sector opened educational and
employment opportunities /// “Marriage bars” legislation restricted married women’s employment
/// Maternal experiences influenced women’s career choices /// Accessible contraceptives in the late
1960s allowed career and motherhood planning /// Post-parenthood pay gap faced by women despite
education and opportunities.
Nobel and other Prizes
8. Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework: PCA framework ex-

tended to govt NBFCs from October 1, 2024, excluding Base Layer NBFCs /// Government-owned
NBFCs like PFC, REC, IRFC, and IFCI fall under the PCA framework /// Identifies financially weak
banks and imposes operational restrictions /// Applies only to commercial banks and not coop-
erative banks or NBFCs /// Introduced in December 2002 as an early intervention mechanism ///
Last Updated in January, 2022, emphasizes capital adequacy, asset quality, and leverage /// Capi-
tal-to-Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) below 9% triggers actions, including capital restoration
plans and business restrictions /// Net Non-Performing Assets (NPA) exceeding 10% but below 15%
initiates measures to reduce bad loans /// Return on Assets (RoA) below 0.25% leads to restrictions
on deposit renewal, costly deposits, and new business entry.
NPA Crisis
9. Royalty Rates for Strategic Minerals: 2nd Schedule of MMDR Act (Mines
and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023) amended for royalty rates ///
Critical minerals affected: Lithium, Niobium, Rare Earth Elements (REEs) /// Enables the first-time
auction of blocks for these minerals in India /// 2023 Amendment wef August 2023 delisted six min-
erals, including Lithium and Niobium, from atomic minerals /// Mineral royalty is government reve-
nue for mineral resource extraction /// India’s high royalty rates affect mining sector competitiveness
/// Lithium mining carries a 3% royalty based on London Metal Exchange prices /// Niobium attracts
a 3% royalty based on Average Sale Price (ASP) /// REEs have a 1% royalty based on the ASP of Rare
Earth Oxide /// Ministry of Mines defines ASP calculation, impacting bid parameters.
Coal and Mining Sector
10. Goan Cashew gets GI Tag: Swayampurna Goa mission’s objectives aligns the
GI Tag /// Introduced by Portuguese in 1570, cashew became economically valuable /// Planted for
afforestation and soil conservation back then /// Evolved from a cottage industry to a major con-
tributor to Goa’s economy, especially due to US demand /// Well-drained sandy loam soils are ideal
for cashew cultivation /// Suitable for Indian coastal regions with 60-95% humidity and 2000-3500
mm annual precipitation /// GI Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry /// Defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement /// 10 years
validity.
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags
11. Recent GI tags awarded: Jaderi Namakatti: White clay sticks used for adorn-
ing idols, men, and temple elephants in Jaderi village, Tamil Nadu /// Basohli Pashmina: Super soft,
fine, lightweight material from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, made from Capra hircus moun-
tain goats’ wool /// Marcha Rice: Grown in select West Champaran district blocks, Bihar, known for
unique aroma and taste, cultivated by Marcha Dhan Utpadak Pragatisheel Samuh /// Atreyapuram
Pootharekulu: Traditional sweet from Atreyapuram village, Andhra Pradesh, featuring paper-thin rice
flour sheets coated with ghee and filled with jaggery or sugar dust, may include dry fruits like pistachios
and almonds, made from MTU-3626 rice variety.
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags
12. Green Credit Program (GCP): Centre launched GCP for earning and trading
Green Credits /// For market-based environmental actions across stakeholders /// Nodal Agency:
Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change /// Voluntary participation underscores inclu-
sivity /// Open to: individuals, industries, FPOs, ULBs, gram panchayats, private sectors /// Tradable
on a domestic market platform /// Green Credit certificates to applicants upon approval /// Qualify-
ing activities: tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pol-
lution reduction, mangrove conservation, eco-mark initiatives, sustainable building, and infrastructure
development /// Credit calculation based on multiple parameters /// Green Credit Registry manages
credit tracking and management /// Trading platform overseen by administrators for Green Credits ///
Non-tradable for credits obtained for legal compliance /// Independent of Carbon Credit Trading
Scheme, 2023, under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.
13. India’s Bid for the 2036 Olympics: PM confirmed India’s bid for the 2036
Olympic Games /// Olympic Origins: Started in ancient Greece in 776 BCE in Olympia /// Revival: Re-
vived by Pierre de Coubertin in 1896 in Athens, Greece /// Flag: Features five interlocking rings repre-
senting unity among 5 continents /// Motto: “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Faster, Higher, Stronger) reflects
the pursuit of excellence /// International Olympic Committee (IOC) selects host city through a
majority vote /// Local governments bear most expenses, including infrastructure, often using bor-
rowed funds /// IOC contributes some revenue to host country, but it’s relatively small, ex $1.5
billion for Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
Prime Minister’s Office : Important Updates
14. Setu Bandhan Scheme: Approved for 7 bridge projects in Arunachal Pradesh ///
Nodal agency: Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways) ///
Objective: To enhance inter-state connectivity, especially in rural border areas /// Focuses on replac-
ing railway line Level Crossings (LCs) with Road Over Bridges (ROBs) or Rail under Bridges (RUBs)
/// CRIF established in 2000 through the Central Road Fund Act /// Previously known as the Central
Road Fund (under Ministry of Finance) /// Funded through a Cess levied in conjunction with excise
duty on petrol and diesel.
Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.
15. Copyright of Religious Texts: Delhi HC found infringement found in the re-
production of copyrighted Srimad Bhagavad Gita content of a Book Trust /// Religious texts not sub-
ject to copyright protection in India generally considered public domain /// Copyright grants rights
for: literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, and more /// Passing off: using identical or substan-
tially similar content to deceive for economic benefit /// Legal provisions in India: Copyright Act,
Copyright Rules 2021, Information Technology Act, IPRS, IPAB, and more /// Copyright Act of 1957
protects original works and provides economic and moral rights /// Author’s lifetime + 60 years is the
Copyright term /// Joint authorship term applies to the author who dies last /// 25 years for broad-
casting reproduction right /// Copyright Board for dispute resolution and licenses /// Punishment
can include imprisonment up to 3 years /// Copyright (Amendment) Rules 2021 align copyrights with
other laws, enhance transparency, merge Copyright Board with Appellate Board, and streamline the
registration process.
Intellectual Property Rights in India
16. Minimum Support Price (MSP): Centre raised MSP ahead of Rabi Season
/// Food Grain Price Committee was formed in 1964 to advocate for MSP under PM Lal Bahadur
Shastri , and first MSP announcement was made in 1967 /// Agricultural Prices Commission (later
renamed Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices) was established to fix MSP for crops /// An-
nounced by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs based on recommendations from CACP at
beginning of sowing season for certain crops /// 22 mandated crops under MSPs /// FRP for sugar-
cane (fair and remunerative price) /// Budget for 2018-19 introduced principle of fixing MSPs at 1.5
times production costs for crops /// CACP estimates three types of production costs for each crop:
A2, A2+FL, and C2, /// A2: Represents paid-out costs incurred by farmer /// A2+FL: Adds unpaid fam-
ily labor to A2 costs /// C2: Comprehensive cost calculation including A2+FL and additional factors.
Minimum Support Prices for Agricultural Produce
17. ‘Namo Bharat’ Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS): First

17km priority section inaugurated for Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor /// NCRTC oversees RRTS
projects, a joint venture between the Centre and Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP governments ///
Initial stations: Sahibabad, Ghaziabad Guldhar, Duhai, Duhai depot /// Trains run every 15 minutes,
potential for 5-minute intervals; designed and made in India /// Eight corridors identified; Delhi-Gha-
ziabad-Meerut, Delhi-Gurugram-SNB-Alwar, Delhi-Panipat prioritized first /// 180 kmph, operational
speed of 160 kmph.
Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.
18. Bidenomics: Encompasses Biden’s administration’s choices and financial policies ///
Three pillars: 1) Smart public investments, 2) Empowering workers and growing the middle class,
3) Promoting competition, reducing costs, and supporting small businesses /// Features: Improving
physical and digital infrastructure, reducing trade dependence on rivals, like China; Enhancing living
standards for middle and lower-income groups /// Boosting job creation domestically /// Increased
taxation for revenue and substantial investment in clean energy and healthcare cost reduction ///
Addresses post-Covid challenges: Recognizes the need to change the failed trickle-down theory of
Reaganomics.
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc
19. RBI’s Forex Swap: Upcoming maturity of a $5 billion forex swap between RBI and
banks signals RBI’s strategic liquidity management and inflation mitigation /// A tool for currency
exchange with banks /// Two variants: Buy/Sell Swap, where RBI buys/sells dollars for Indian Rupees
with commitment to reverse /// Have predetermined terms, reducing exchange rate and market risks
/// RBI initiated a $5.135 billion swap with banks, aiming to repurchase dollars at a minimal premium
after two years /// Banks bidding at the lower premium range have better auction success /// Surplus
liquidity of Rs 7.5 lakh crore in the Indian financial system necessitates inflation control measures
/// Traditional methods like repo rate or CRR increase may negatively impact the economy /// RBI
tried Variable Rate Reverse Repo Auction (VRRR) but faced under-subscription due to better cash
market yields /// RBI turns to forex auctions as a longer-term liquidity adjustment tool.
RBI Notifications
20. Leniency Plus Norms: CCI releases draft of revised lesser penalty regulations in-
troducing a “leniency plus” program /// Part of the Competition (Amendment) Act 2023, it’s an an-
titrust enforcement strategy /// Encourages companies under investigation for one cartel to report
other unknown cartels /// Benefits include: reduced penalties for disclosing information about the
first cartel, without affecting penalties for the newly disclosed one /// Similar regimes in the UK, US,
Singapore, and Brazil /// Competition Commission of India: Statutory body established in March
2009 under the Competition Act, 2002 /// Aims to create fair competition, ensure consumer wel-
fare, and protect against anti-competitive practices /// Mandate includes prohibiting anti-competi-
tive agreements, regulating mergers and acquisitions, and promoting competition /// Comprises one
chairperson and six additional members appointed by the Central Government /// Headquarters in
New Delhi /// Cartelisation: Businesses colluding to keep prices high.
Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.
21. Fertilizer Subsidy: Centre revised subsidy rates by nutrient type and period /// Three
main fertilizers: Urea, Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), and Muriate of Potash (MOP) /// Urea: Most
produced (86%), consumed (74%), and imported (52%) /// Urea receives largest subsidy (around
70% of total) /// DAP and MOP based on Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) formula (N, P, K in 4:2:1 ratio)
/// Initiated during Green Revolution for agricultural productivity /// Benefit reaches farmers, low-
ering market fertilizer prices /// DBT system since March 2018 implemented nationwide /// Subsidy
payments to companies made post-sales through retailers /// Retailers use PoS machines linked to
Fertilizers’ e-Urvarak DBT portal /// Example: Neem-coated urea MRP set at Rs 5,922.22 per tonne,
while production costs Rs 17,000 per tonne /// Central bears cost difference through subsidies.
Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.
22. EV Charging Standard for Bikes and Scooters: BIS approves

charging connector standard for Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) /// Named as: ISI7017 (Part 2/Sec
7) 2023 /// Developed collaboratively with NITI Aayog, Department of Science and Technology,
Ather Energy, and others /// Key Feature: Combines AC and DC charging, enhancing interoperability
and compatibility /// Diverse Charging Standards: Indian EV manufacturers follow varied standards,
similar to past smartphone diversity /// Different Charging Standards Worldwide: China: Uses GB/T,
with a dense network of charging stations /// United States: Collaboration among EV manufacturers
to establish common standards /// Europe: Dominated by Combined Charging System (CCS) stan-
dard, promoted by EU /// Japan: CHAdeMO standard, being phased out in North America for common
standards.
Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.
23. India’s First Reference Fuel: Self-reliance with the production of ‘reference’
petrol and diesel /// Previously imported from Europe and the US /// High-value Petrol and Diesel
used for vehicle calibration and testing /// Strict specifications like Cetane number, flash point, vis-
cosity, sulphur content, etc. /// Have octane numbers of 97, exceeding regular and premium fuels ///
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) developed reference petrol in Paradip and diesel in Panipat /// Dif-
ferent ethanol-gasoline blends (E0, E5, E10, E20, E85, E100) from Paradip /// Panipat refinery pro-
duces B7 grade reference diesel fuel /// Domestic production lowers costs significantly compared
to imported reference fuel /// Offers shorter lead times and import substitution at a better price ///
Ethanol blending reduces carbon footprint and emissions in gasoline vehicles /// Diesel B7 contains
up to 7% biocomponents /// Octane number measures fuel resistance to engine knocking /// Cetane
number indicates diesel ignition quality /// Flash point is the lowest temperature for vapor ignition
/// Viscosity measures fluid resistance to flow /// Acid number gauges the amount of acidic substance
in oil.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.
24. Lewis Model of Economic Development: India is deviating from Lewis’

model rethinking economic strategies for job creation /// 1954, Economist W.A. Lewis envisioned
industrialization opportunities in developing countries with abundant, low-wage labor /// Withdrawal
of surplus labor from agriculture could enhance farm productivity /// Success story of China: Be-
come “world’s factory” from 1970-2000 /// India’s Deviation: Agriculture employed 66% of the work-
force till the early ’90s /// Fell to 49% in 2011-12, currently at 45.8% /// Manufacturing stands at only
11.4%, lower than construction (13%) and trade & hospitality (12.1%) /// Structural transformation
did NOT occur from farm to factory in India /// Labor moves within “subsistence sectors,” not into
manufacturing /// More employment in construction than manufacturing in many states /// Less ag-
riculture-dependent states have 2-3 times more labor in services than manufacturing /// Gujarat is
an exception with 24% engaged in manufacturing /// Lewis model was relevant for 1950s India when
industries like jute and textiles employed many /// Manufacturing is now capital-intensive and less
labor-centric due to Robotics and AI.
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc
25. QR Code on Food Products: FSSAI recommends QR codes on food products

for visually impaired /// A statutory body under India’s Ministry of Health & Family Welfare /// Es-
tablished in 2008 under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 /// Regulates and supervises food
safety, protecting public health /// Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations
2020: Includes mandatory info on allergen, nutrient contributions, expiry dates, new symbols, etc. ///
Mandates e-commerce platforms to label food products for sale /// Brings large chain restaurant
operators under its scope /// Labels should be accessible to all consumers, including the visually
impaired /// RPWD Act 2016 emphasizes accessibility /// QR codes should provide comprehensive
product details, including ingredients, nutrition, allergens, dates, warnings, and contact info /// Com-
plement mandatory label information as per regulations.
Food Processing Industry: Issues and Developments
26. Mozambique LNG Project: India reviews $20 billion project for LNG in Mozam-
bique /// Project initiated in 2010 with the discovery of significant natural gas reserves off northern
Mozambique /// 3 Indian PSUs have a 30% stake in the project /// Mozambique’s strategic location
near India’s west coast enhances its importance as an LNG source /// India seeks to increase natural
gas in its energy mix, with LNG imports playing a vital role /// Other companies halted operations
in April 2021 due to security concerns /// Humanitarian mission in December 2022 recommended
actions to address local issues /// India actively engages project partners to restart the project since
May 2023 /// Geopolitically significant as India diversifies LNG suppliers beyond reliance on Qatar.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.
Governance
1. MGNREG Scheme: Under: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee
Act, 2005 /// ‘Right to Work’ guarantee in rural areas /// Proposed by PV Narasimha Rao in 1991 ///
Guarantees at least 100 days of employment for unskilled rural workers /// Enforceable commit-
ment by State Governments /// Provides unemployment allowance if employment not given within
15 days /// Eligibility for Indian citizens above 18 in rural areas /// Work within 5 km of the applicant’s
residence /// Minimum wages paid for MGNREGS work /// Employment is a legal entitlement under
MGNREGS.
MGNREGA Scheme
2. AP Guaranteed Pension System (GPS): Bill passed in Andhra assembly

for Guaranteed Pension System /// Combines OPS and NPS (Old Pension Scheme and New Pension
Scheme) /// Ensures monthly pension equal to 50% of their last-drawn salary, including allowances
to Govt employees /// To prevent resistance against NPS and fiscal sustainability concerns /// Offers a
middle path, preventing regression while addressing NPS concerns /// Enhances attractiveness with
a 50% pension guarantee /// Balances financial burden, covering NPS shortfalls by the government ///
OPS provides fixed pensions; NPS doesn’t guarantee fixed pensions, based on market returns /// NPS
involves contributions from employees and employers, invested /// GPS employees contribute 10%
of basic salary, matched by the state government.
One Rank One Pension Issue
3. State of Global Internet Freedom in 2023: Declined for 13th consecutive

year /// Covers developments from June 2022 to May 2023 /// Freedom House releases the report
/// Highlights growing use of AI by governments for censorship and disinformation /// Scale of 1 to
100 to measure Internet freedom /// Iceland tops scoring 94 as the best /// China worst for the ninth
consecutive year /// Legal consequences for online expression in a record 55 countries this year ///
Elections triggered digital repression in many countries /// 5 censorship methods evaluated, in-
cluding Internet connectivity restrictions and content removal /// AI-enabled digital repression is
detailed, highlighting the use of AI-based moderation tools for content regulation /// Concerns are
raised about adverse effects on Indian democracy as censorship expands, potentially affecting the
2024 general elections /// India’s censorship methods: except VPN blocking, including website block-
ing, ICT network disruption, manipulation of online discussions, and technical attacks on critics and
human rights organizations.
Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.
4. Habitat Rights to Baiga Tribals: Chhattisgarh grants habitat rights to Bai-

ga PVTG after Kamar PVTG /// Seven PVTGs, including Kamar, Baiga, Pahadi Korba, Abujhmadiya,
Birhor, Pando, and Bhujia /// Provided under FRA, 2006 Section 3(1) (e) [Scheduled Tribes and Other
Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006] /// Acknowledge PVTGs’ pos-
session of customary territory, covering habitation, livelihood, and biodiversity knowledge /// Do
not convey ownership, they require consent and consultation with the gram sabha (village council)
for any developmental activity /// Ministry of Tribal Affairs identifies 75 PVTGs in 18 states and one
Union Territory /// In 1973, PTGs were created as a separate category by the Dhebar Commission,
later renamed as PVTGs by the Centre in 2006.
Tribes in News
5. Abortion Rights in India: Illegal in India until the 1960s, punishable by impris-
onment and/or fines /// Shantilal Shah Committee (1960s) to evaluate the need for abortion laws ///
Introduction of MTP Bill, 1971 (Medical Termination of Pregnancy) in Parliament /// Implemented
from 1972, applies to all of India except J&K /// Section 312 of IPC criminalizes abortion even with
the woman’s consent, except when it’s necessary to save her life /// Allowed abortion: By a single
doctor’s opinion up to 12 weeks and required two doctors’ opinions for 12 to 20-week pregnancies
/// Recent Amendments (2021):One doctor’s opinion allowed for abortions up to 20 weeks /// Two
doctors’ opinions required for pregnancies between 20 to 24 weeks /// Categories Eligible for termi-
nation: Survivors of sexual assault, minors, women with disabilities, and cases involving foetal abnor-
malities or humanitarian emergencies.
Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.
6. Global Hunger Index (GHI): India drops to 111th place out of 125 countries in the
2023 Global Hunger Index, a decline from 107th in 2022 /// India reported highest child wasting rate,
a staggering 18.7 percent /// Neighbors fared better: Pakistan (102nd), Bangladesh (81st), Nepal (69th),
and Sri Lanka (60th) /// Published by: Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe annually /// Measures
hunger on a 100-point scale, with 0 as the best (no hunger) and 100 as the worst /// 4 Indicators:
Undernourishment, Child Wasting, Child Stunting, Child Mortality.
Hunger and Nutrition Issues – GHI, GNI, etc.
7. International Classification of Diseases (ICD): Traditional Indian

medicines to be included in WHOs’ ICD 11th revision /// Includes: Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga,
Naturopathy, and Homoeopathy /// ICD a standardized system for classifying and coding health con-
ditions /// Established in 1893 by International Statistical Institute (WHO’s predecessor) /// Man-
aged by WHO, it covers various diseases, injuries, and health factors /// Unique alphanumeric codes
for consistent recording and reporting /// Used for health data collection, analysis, and reporting,
globally /// Periodically updated to reflect medical advances and health trends /// Latest version ef-
fective from January 2022, ICD-11 /// Enables universal communication among healthcare profes-
sionals /// Traditional Chinese medicine included in ICD-11 incorporated Module-1 after a decade
of consultations.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
8. Money Laundering Case against Political Party: ED books AAP in

money laundering probe related to Delhi’s excise policy /// Invoking Section 70 of PMLA (Prevention
of Money Laundering Act) to investigate /// PMLA’s key objectives: prevent and control money laun-
dering, confiscate laundered property, address money laundering issues /// Section 3 defines money
laundering offense /// PMLA amendments in 2009, 2012, and through Finance Acts in 2015, 2018, and
2019 /// Company offences dealt with Section 70 /// Individuals can defend themselves if contraven-
tions occurred without their knowledge despite due diligence /// Political parties aren’t companies,
PMLA’s Explanation under Section 70 includes associations of individuals /// Qualify as associations
of individuals: political parties registered with the EC as per Representation of the People Act ///
Naming AAP would be first such instance involving a political party under PMLA /// Income Tax Act:
Political parties have previously faced investigations under it.
Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc
9. Gyan Sahayak Scheme: Controversial scheme for contractual teachers in Guja-

rat’s /// To temporarily fill positions in government schools /// Inspired by National Education
Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing interdisciplinary skills /// Applicable to government and grant-in-
aid schools, including Mission Schools of Excellence /// Capacity: 15,000 Gyan Sahayak for primary,
11,500 for secondary and higher secondary schools /// Monthly salaries: Rs 21,000 for primary, Rs
24,000 for secondary, Rs 26,000 for higher secondary /// TET-2 clearance for Primary GS required
in Gujarat Examination Board /// Teacher Aptitude Test (TAT) clearance for Secondary and Higher
Secondary GS /// Age limit: Under 40 for primary and secondary, up to 42 for higher secondary /// Mer-
it-based selection through percentile ranks from TET-2 results, allocated by School Management
Committees (SMCs) via district education officers.
Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.
10. One Nation, One Student ID: States seek parental consent for student identity
cards, Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) /// APAAR offers VOLUNTARY
lifelong IDs, as per New Education Policy, 2020 /// Tracks academic progress from pre-primary to
higher education /// Provides access to Digilocker for storing academic documents digitally /// Aims
to simplify education, reduce physical document handling /// Helps states track literacy, dropout
rates, address shortcomings /// Fights fraud and duplicate certificates with a trusted reference ///
Unique APAAR ID will be assigned to each person /// Linked to Academic Bank Credit (ABC) ///
ABC stores credits earned throughout the learning journey /// Smooth school transfers; data moves
with APAAR ID, no physical documents needed /// Registration requires basic info, photo, Aadhar
number verification /// Consent form allows choice to share Aadhar info with Ministry of Education
/// Aadhar data privacy concern remain, especially among parents and students. Aadhaar Card Issues
11. DNA and Face Matching Systems at Police Stations: To be intro-

duced in 1,300 police stations across the country /// Follows CrPI Act (Criminal Procedure Identifi-
cation Act) in 2022 /// CrPI Act grants police and central agencies authority to collect, store, and
analyze various biological samples, including retina and iris scans, from arrested individuals /// Did
NOT explicitly mention DNA and face matching, but NCRB and the Ministry of Home Affairs plan
to implement them /// Aimed at enhancing law enforcement capabilities and modernizing criminal
identification and data management /// National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) to oversee imple-
mentation of CRPI Act /// NCRB guides police on proper protocol for recording these measurements
/// Concerns about privacy and constitutionality /// Practical challenges include training, resourc-
es, funding, and operating costs in various states. Police Reforms – SC directives, NPC, other committees reports
Polity
1. Quota in Minority Institutions: Madras HC exempts: Religious and linguistic
minority educational institutions from reservation rules /// Govt cannot compel these institutions
to provide reservations /// State govt can limit admission of minority students to 50% of sanctioned
intake /// Admitted on merit not part of the 50% quota /// Minority status continues until-cancelled
by National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI) /// NCMEI established by
NCMEI Act, 2004 /// Statutory body with quasi-judicial powers /// Protects educational institutions
established by religious minorities /// Ensures rights of religious minorities to establish and admin-
ister educational institutions under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution /// Headed by a chairman
from a religious minority community, who has been a High Court Judge /// 3 members nominated by
the Central Government /// Roles: Adjudicatory, advisory, and recommendatory /// NCM established
in 1992 under the NCM Act, 1992 /// Advises central and state governments on minority commu-
nity welfare and development /// Consists of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and five members, all
from minority communities /// Total of 7 persons nominated by the Central Government based on
eminence, ability, and integrity /// Centre can notify a community as a minority under Section 2(c)
of the NCM Act, 1992 /// Minorities: Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Parsis were notified
as minority communities; later, Jains were also included /// Articles in the Indian Constitution: Article
29: Protects the right of any section of citizens with a distinct language, script, or culture to conserve
the same /// Applies to religious and linguistic minorities /// Article 30: Grants religious and linguistic
minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice /// Limited to
minorities, unlike Article 29 /// Article 350-B: Provides for a Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities
appointed by the President of India to safeguard linguistic minorities’ rights under the Constitution ///
Legal Precedents: TMA Pai Case: Religious and linguistic minorities considered state-wise for Article
30 rights /// Bal Patil Case (2005): Affirmed the state-wise unit for determining minority status for
both linguistic and religious minorities ///
Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.
2. Money Bills vs. Financial Bills: SC to hear pleas challenging legislations in the
name of Money Bills /// FINANCE BILL: Relates to revenue or expenditure matters, becomes a Mon-
ey Bill if it exclusively deals with Article 110(1)(a) to (g) /// Category 1: Introduced on President’s
recommendation, Exclusive to Lok Sabha /// Category 2: Similar to ordinary Bills /// President’s
recommendation needed for expenditure from Consolidated Fund of India /// Can be introduced
in RS, amended, or discussed in joint sitting /// MONEY BILL: Must be Certified by the Speaker /// In-
troduced only in Lok Sabha /// Requires President’s recommendation /// 2016 Aadhaar Act: Doubts
over verdict upholding Aadhaar Act passed as a Money Bill.
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc
3. Scheduled Areas in India: Cover 11.3% of India’s land area, home to various ST
communities (8.6% of the population) /// Designated in 10 states under the Fifth Schedule: Andhra
Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharash-
tra, Himachal Pradesh /// Additionally, 4 states under the Sixth Schedule: Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura,
Mizoram /// Criteria: Include significant tribal population, compactness, reasonable size, viability, and
economic backwardness compared to neighboring areas /// Bhuria Commission (2002) recommends
areas with 40% or more tribal population (1951 Census) as Scheduled Areas /// Tribal Advisory Coun-
cil advises Governors on ST welfare matters /// PESA empowers gram sabhas for Local Self-Gover-
nance /// President notifies Scheduled Areas; states establish Tribal Advisory Councils /// Statutory
Provisions: Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, against Untouchability; Scheduled Castes and the
Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989; Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the
Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996; Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of
Forest Rights) Act, 2006 /// Constitution doesn’t define ST recognition criteria /// Article 244(1):
Applies Fifth Schedule to Scheduled Areas in states except Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram ///
Article 244(2): Applies Sixth Schedule to Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Tribes in News
4. Questions in Parliament: ‘Cash for query’ allegations against an MP, Lok Sabha
Ethics Committee inquiry to inquire /// Concerns about ethical conduct and misuse of parliamentary
positions /// Procedure for Raising Questions in Parliament: Raising questions follows Rules 32 to 54
in “Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha” and Directions 10 to 18 by the Speaker,
Lok Sabha /// MPs must give notice addressed to the Secretary-General of the lower house /// Notice
contains question text, minister’s designation, desired answer date, and order of preference for mul-
tiple questions /// MPs can submit up to 5 notices for oral and written questions for a day /// Notice
Period: Typically not less than 15 days /// Submission methods online ‘Member’s Portal’ or printed
forms from Parliamentary Notice Office /// Speaker reviews and determines admissibility based on
rules /// Admissibility Conditions: Questions under 150 words, avoiding arguments, defamatory con-
tent, or personal conduct references (except in an official capacity) /// Not admissible– Broad policy
questions /// Cannot pertain to judicial matters or parliamentary committee topics /// Must not
seek such information undermining national unity and integrity /// Categories of Questions: Starred
Question: MP asks, Minister answers orally, allowing supplementary questions; One starred question
per MP per day /// Unstarred Question: MP seeks a written answer, laid on the table, no supplemen-
tary questions /// Short Notice Question: Urgent, oral answer sought with less than 10-day notice ///
Question to Private Member: Addressed to private member related to their responsibilities, subject
to specific rules in Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc
5. Political Parties and their Symbols: Allocated by ECI based on The Election
Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 /// Order regulates symbol specification, reserva-
tion, choice, and allotment during elections /// Symbols can be reserved or free, with reserved ones
exclusive to recognized parties /// Recognized national and state parties receive exclusive symbols
/// Unrecognized parties submit lists of preferred symbols from the free pool /// Parties can propose
up to three new symbols, not resembling existing ones or carrying certain connotations /// Unregis-
tered parties submit symbol preferences /// Criteria for approval: Not resembling existing symbols
or carrying certain connotations /// ECI assigns symbols when recognized parties split, as seen with
the Congress party’s symbol change /// Recent example: Different symbols assigned to factions of the
Shiv Sena, retaining one faction’s bow and arrow while giving the other a flaming torch.
Electoral Reforms In India
6. 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 Constitu-
tion 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 /// Addition-
ally, 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
7. Lok Sabha Ethics Committee: LSEC Probes against ‘Cash for Query’ alle-
gations against an MP /// Possible outcomes include recommendations for suspension /// House,
with all MPs, decides whether to accept committee recommendations /// Accused can chal-
lenge expulsion or adverse decisions in court /// LSEC members’ appointment by the Speaker
for one year /// History: Idea of ethics panels for Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha discussed in 1996 ///
Rajya Sabha EC under Vice President K R Narayanan established in 1997 /// Lok Sabha EC pro-
posed in 1997 but formally established in 2015 /// Complaint procedure: Anyone can complain
with evidence, an affidavit if not from the Member /// Speaker can refer complaints to the Com-
mittee /// Committee evaluates complaints, makes recommendations to the Speaker /// Overlap
with Privileges Committee: Both handle misconduct, with more serious allegations going to Priv-
ileges Committee /// Privileges Committee safeguards freedom, authority, and dignity in Parlia-
ment /// EC addresses misconduct involving MPs. Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc
International Relations
1. India- Japan NIIF Fund: NIIF partners with JBIC to establish a $600 million In-
dia-Japan Fund /// Focuses Areas: environmental sustainability, carbon reduction, and Japanese in-
vestment in India /// Primarily invests in renewable energy, energy efficiency, clean tech, and green
initiatives /// India contributes 49% of the target corpus, highlighting support for infrastructure and
sustainability /// JBIC provides the remaining 51%, emphasizing Japanese interest in Indian proj-
ects /// NIIF manages the fund with a history of financing infrastructure in India /// NIIF is India’s
first sovereign wealth fund, operating as an Alternative Investment Fund under SEBI /// Proposed in
Union Budget 2015-16, officially launched in December 2016 /// 3 component funds: Master Fund,
Fund of Funds, and Strategic Opportunities Fund /// Involves the GOI holding a 49% stake, with the
rest held by global and domestic institutional investors.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Japan
2. Cape Town Convention for Aircraft Leasing: MCA issued notification

exempting aircraft-related transactions from certain sections of the IBC /// Aligning Indian regu-
lations with the Cape Town Convention (CTC) /// CTC deals with transactions involving movable
property /// Areas: registration of contracts of sale, security interests, leases, and various legal rem-
edies for default in financing agreements /// 3 protocols: Aircraft Equipment (2001), railway rolling
stock (2007), and space assets (2012) /// CTC established in 2001, attended by 68 countries and 14
international organizations /// Wef: April 1, 2004, and has been ratified by 57 parties /// Focuses on
aircraft and aircraft engines, took effect on March 1, 2006, after being ratified by eight countries ///
India became a signatory to the CTC in 2018, but NOT ratified /// Indian laws overridden CTC pro-
visions in cases of conflict, affecting lessors’ rights. Civil Aviation Sector – CA Policy 2016, UDAN, Open Skies, etc.
3. Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): Sri Lanka to chair IORA, succeed-
ing Bangladesh /// Nelson Mandela’s India visit in 1995 initiated IORA’s vision /// IOR Initiative in
March 1995 led to the formation of IORA in March 1997 /// 23 Member States: Australia, Bangladesh,
Comoros, France, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozam-
bique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, UAE, Yemen
/// 11 Dialogue Partners: China, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Tur-
key, the UK, and USA /// IOR is a vital trade route, handling a significant portion of global cargo traffic
and oil shipments /// Six priority areas: Trade and Investment, Maritime Safety and Security, Fisheries
Management, Disaster Risk Management, Blue Economy, Strengthening Regional Ties.
Indian Ocean Power Competition
4. India-Sri Lanka Ferry Service: Palk Strait connectivity using high-

speed ferry service /// Connected cities: Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, India, and Kankesan-
thurai, Jaffna, Sri Lanka /// Operated by: Tamil Nadu Maritime Board and Shipping Corpora-
tion of India /// Daily service covers 60-nm (110-km) journey in 3 /// 5 hours /// Indo-Ceylon
Express used to operate Chennai to Colombo via Thoothukudi but ceased in 1982 due to civil war
/// Palk Strait: Separates Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka /// Named after British Raj-era gov-
ernor Robert Palk /// Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu flows into it. Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka
5. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): Sri

Lanka and Bangladesh contemplate RCEP entry, after India’s exit /// Negotiations initiated in 2012,
officially signed in November 2020 /// Wef January 1, 2022, a milestone in regional trade /// Major eco-
nomic pact among ASEAN members and FTA partners /// World’s largest trading bloc, promoting
integration, liberalization, cooperation /// 15 member countries, including China, Japan, New Zea-
land, South Korea, and ASEAN nations /// Coverage: Goods, services, investment, IP, competition,
dispute settlement, more /// 30% of global GDP, one-third of world population.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
6. Rafah Crossing: Located in Southern Gaza gains global attention amid Israeli-Palestin-
ian conflict /// Connects Sinai Peninsula in Egypt and is controlled by Egypt /// Only exit not leading
to Israeli territory; other crossings include Erez (for Israel) and Kerem Shalom (commercial goods),
both currently closed /// Became crucial after Hamas’s assault on Erez crossing, leading to its closure
along with Kerem Shalom /// Now the only entry and exit point for Gaza’s people and humanitarian
aid /// Sinai Peninsula in Egypt: triangular shape, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea (north), Red
Sea (south), Gulf of Aqaba (east) /// Includes Suez Canal, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the
Red Sea.
The Crisis In The Middle East
7. Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations: Indian MEA cites Ar-

ticle 11 /// 1 of Vienna Convention for actions against Canadian diplomats /// Vienna Convention
(1961) defines how nations treat each other’s diplomatic representatives /// Adopted on April 14,
1961, by UN Conference on Diplomatic Intercourse and Immunities in Vienna, Austria /// Aims to
foster friendly relations and maintain effective communication among nations /// Ratified by 193
countries; India ratified it in 1972 through the Diplomatic Relations (Vienna Convention) Act /// Key
Provisions:Diplomatic Immunity (Articles 29 to 36): Grants diplomats and families immunity from
host country’s legal jurisdiction /// Inviolability of Diplomatic Premises (Articles 22 to 27): Diplo-
matic premises are inviolable and cannot be entered without sending state’s permission /// Non-Inter-
ference (Article 41): Diplomatic agents must not interfere in host country’s internal affairs /// Protec-
tion of Diplomatic Missions (Articles 22 to 27): Host country responsible for mission security and
staff protection /// Termination of Diplomatic Relations (Articles 45 to 50): Outlines procedures for
diplomatic relations’ termination, including personnel withdrawal and mission closure.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Canada
8. Visa Shopping: Surges in various Indian states, notably Punjab, with help from travel
agencies /// Obtaining visas whether or not intending to visit during the visa’s validity /// Purpose:
Gaining access to preferred countries, especially in Europe, even with other European visas /// For
future possibilities, improving chances for desired destinations due to lengthy and uncertain visa
processes /// Schengen Visa, allowing exploration of multiple European countries with one visa ///
Schengen Agreement, formed in 1985, enables free movement across 24+ member nations without
border controls /// LEGAL when following visa process norms and obtaining legitimate stay permis-
sion.
Foreign Policy Watch: India – EU
9. 76 Years of United Nations: October 24 is celebrated as UN Day /// Post-WW I and

II turmoil led to the need for a global organization /// ‘League of Nations’ laid groundwork but fal-
tered during WW II (India was original member) /// Atlantic Charter (1941) by Roosevelt and Chur-
chill paved way for UN /// Term ‘UN’ coined to identify Allies against axis powers /// Declaration of
UN in 1942 signed by 26 Allied nations /// Officially formed on October 24, 1945, with 51 nations rat-
ifying /// UNGA first meet on January 10, 1946 /// 4 core goals: peace, friendly relations, cooperation,
and global coordination /// Membership started with 51 states, now 193 /// UN’s expanded scope:
addressing health, environment, and women’s empowerment /// Achievements: conflict prevention,
humanitarian aid, human rights, health efforts, refugee support, and environmental advocacy /// Crit-
icisms: Genocide prevention failures, peacekeeping challenges, veto powers at UNSC, enforcement
limits, lack of representation, and neoliberal influence accusations.
Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations
10. Global Solar Stock-Take Report: International Solar Alliance (ISA) to re-
lease inaugural ‘Global Solar Stock-Take Report /// Mid-November release scheduled /// Evaluate
contributions made by nations in the adoption of solar energy /// Based on UN ‘Global Stocktake’
Report announced in Dubai, first began in 2022 /// Assesses progress since 2015 Paris Agreement
in combating global warming /// Countries report actions taken to shift from fossil fuels, address
insufficient commitments /// ISA comprises 121+ sunny countries between Tropic of Cancer and
Tropic of Capricorn /// Launched by PM Modi in 2015 at India Africa Summit and UN Climate Change
Conference /// HQ: Gurugram, India; treaty-based inter-governmental organization /// Focus: Efficient
solar energy use to reduce fossil fuel dependence.
Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.
11. UNGA Emergency Special Session: India abstains from vote on a resolu-
tion for an Israel-Hamas truce during special emergency session /// Emergency session: Occurs when
UNSC is deadlocked by a permanent member’s veto /// Member states can request this session to
recommend collective measures, including ceasefires /// Non-binding General Assembly resolutions,
if adopted by a two-thirds majority, guide nations /// Cover global issues like disarmament, climate
change, and humanitarian aid /// Types: regular, consensus, and procedural resolutions /// Originates
from member states, UN committees, or regional groups after negotiations /// Non-binding but carry
moral and political influence /// Shape global norms and state behavior /// Equal voting rights for
each member state regardless of size /// Typically adopted with a two-thirds majority of present and
voting states /// Some require a simple majority, while UN Charter amendments need a two-thirds
majority of all states /// Abstentions: Member states can abstain, signifying neutrality without support
or opposition ///
The Crisis In The Middle East
12. Places in news: Dagestan: Anti-Israel protesters storm Makhachkala airport, Dages-
tan /// Russian province in the North Caucasus /// Known as “Land of the Mountains” due to its moun-
tainous terrain /// Borders with: Georgia, Chechnya, and Azerbaijan /// Prominent ethnic groups: Avars,
Dargins, Kumyks, and Lezgins /// Capital: Makhachkala, situated along the Caspian Sea coast /// Histori-
cally significant trading port, later conquered by the Russian Imperial Army /// Strategic for oil and gas
pipelines connecting the Caspian Sea to Russia’s heartland, with its own reserves. The Crisis In The Middle East
Security Issues
1. Project Udbhav: Indian Army and USI (United Service Institution of India) partner-
ship /// Hybrid-panel discussion on Indian military systems and strategic thinking /// Rediscovering
ancient Indic statecraft and strategic wisdom /// Covers Indigenous Military Systems, Historical
Texts, and more /// Aims to bridge historical and contemporary knowledge and develops indigenous
strategic vocabulary /// Integrates ancient wisdom into modern military pedagogy.
Indian Army Updates
2. UAPA invoked against News Agency: ED accuses money laundering, al-

leging ₹77 crore foreign remittance /// UAPA first enacted in 1967, precursor to TADA and POTA ///
Aims to prevent unlawful activities disrupting India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty /// Cen-
tral government has power to declare activities unlawful /// UAPA defines terrorist acts based on 9
listed treaties /// Applies to both Indian and foreign nationals, even for crimes committed abroad
/// Chargesheet within 180 days, extendable with court notice /// Allows sharing of terrorist-des-
ignated individuals’ personal and financial information with foreign agencies /// Enables seizure of
properties linked to terrorism /// Amendments: 2004: Added “terrorist act” to offences, banning 34
outfits /// 2019: Empowers designating individuals as terrorists, grants NIA Director-General power for
property seizure approval, and allows NIA inspectors or higher ranks to investigate terrorism cases.
Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc
3. Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT): Russia considers

revoking its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) /// CTBT aims to ban
all nukes explosions, military or peaceful /// Originated during Cold War nuclear arms race between
the US and Soviet Union /// Over 2,000 nuclear tests globally between 1945 and 1996 /// Adopted in
1996 by UN, fully banning nuclear tests /// Limited Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (LTBT) of 1963 prohib-
ited tests in the atmosphere, space, and underwater /// Threshold Test Ban Treaty (TTBT) of 1974
banned underground tests but not comprehensive /// End of Cold War created opportunities for com-
prehensive arms control /// Negotiations in 1994 began for CTBT /// Eight non-ratifying nations:
China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, Israel, Iran, Egypt, US.
Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament
4. White Phosphorus Munitions: Accusations against Israel for using white phos-
phorus munitions in Gaza and Lebanon /// White phosphorus ignites when exposed to air, produc-
ing intense heat and thick smoke /// Classified as “Pyrophoric solids, category 1″ under the Globally
Harmonized System /// Used in artillery shells, bombs, and rockets for smokescreens and incendiary
purposes /// Latest use by US in the second battle of Fallujah in Iraq in 2004 /// Causes severe burns,
respiratory problems, and infrastructure and crop damage /// First used by Irish nationalists in the
late 19th century /// Legal status: regulated under IHL, NOT considered a chemical weapon /// Gov-
erned by: Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW), Protocol III /// Protocol III restricts some
use of ground-launched incendiary weapons around civilians.
Human Rights Issues
5. SIM Swap Scam: Targets individuals’ financial security by exploiting SIM card-bank-
ing app link /// Enables OTP generation and bank-related message receipt /// Begins with per-
sonal data collection through phishing or vishing /// Scammers copy victims at mobile operator
outlets using stolen data /// Report SIM card or phone theft, obtaining a duplicate SIM card /// Ac-
tivation messages go to scammers, not victims /// Involves missed calls as distraction tactic for
SIM swap execution /// Perpetrators gain control over calls and messages through the victim’s
SIM /// Phishing information used to access bank portals and generate OTPs /// Fraudsters receive
OTPs due to SIM control, authenticate transactions, steal money. Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc
Enviro & Biodiversity

1. Duarte Agostinho Case: Historic climate action lawsuit at European Court of Hu-
man Rights /// 32 European governments dragged, including UK, Russia, Turkey, vs. 6 Portuguese
youths aged 11-24 /// Challenges countries’ carbon budgets and calls for greater reductions /// Youth
claim infringement on fundamental rights and harm future generations /// Case initiated in Sept
2020 /// Responds to 2017 Portugal wildfires, emphasizing Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target /// Alle-
gation: European nations failed to meet emissions goals, endangering plaintiffs’ future /// Evidence
shows 3°C rise in plaintiffs’ lifetimes if emissions continue /// Claims breach of rights under Europe-
an Convention on Human Rights /// Urge to intensify emissions reductions, curbing fossil fuels and
improving supply chain sustainability /// ESABCC recommends 75% emissions reduction from 1990
levels, exceeding EU’s 55% target.
2. Climate Change Trends Terminology: Studies highlight various climate

phenomena, including declining monsoon rainfall, extreme weather events, droughts, heatwaves, and
cyclones /// Trend: Continuous climate variable changes, ex. gradual temperature increase, especial-
ly within human lifetimes (anthropogenic trend) /// Secular Trend: Continuous variable increase
over a specific period within a more extended timeframe, like 30 years within a century /// Decadal
Variability: Oscillations between positive and negative phases over tens of years /// Shift: Rapid tran-
sition between states, ex. sudden rainfall pattern change (ex. monsoon shift from above to below
long-period average) /// Ex- Arabian Sea noted a change in cyclone formation potential in the late
1990s /// ‘Warm Arctic, Cold Eurasian’ (WACE) pattern shift, not a continuous trend is the rea-
son behind /// Involves WACE surface temperatures, affecting Indian Ocean circulation /// Global
Warming slowdown occurred during this period, suggesting a ‘regime shift,’ akin to the mid-1970s.
3. Ozone Hole detected over Antarctica: Copernicus Sentinel 5P Satellite

spots massive ozone hole over Antarctica, raises concerns /// Layer in stratosphere shields us from
harmful UV radiation /// UV radiation strongly influences skin cancer rates /// Hole = Ozone concen-
trations below 220 Dobson Units /// Hole fluctuates yearly, opening in August, closing by November
or December /// Mechanism: Earth’s rotation generates unique winds over Antarctica /// Polar vortex
isolates polar air, creating a cold environment for ozone-depleting reactions /// Chlorine and bro-
mine compounds catalyze ozone-depleting reactions /// Size and strength of polar vortex impact
ozone depletion /// Cause in 2023: Volcanic eruptions in Tonga releasing water vapor into the strato-
sphere /// Wildfires linked to recent ozone depletion instances /// International response: Vienna
Convention in 1985, Montreal Protocol in 1987 /// World Ozone Day on September 16 commemo-
rates the Montreal Protocol.
4. Kanwar Lake: Bihar’s lone Ramsar Site, faces water loss and degradation due to neglect
/// Asia’s largest oxbow lake, located in Begusarai district /// Formed by Gandak River meandering,
a Ganga tributary /// Designated in 2020 as Ramsar site, Bihar’s first /// Sourced from Gandak, Bia,
and Kareh rivers near Manjhaul /// Ramsar Convention for globally significant wetlands /// Estab-
lished by UNESCO in 1971, named after Iran’s Ramsar city, where it was signed. Wetland Conservation
5. Dhanauri Wetland: NGT asks UP to report on Ramsar tag status for Dhanauri wet-
lands /// Located in UP, is a bird-watching area /// Home to 120+ Sarus cranes, the state bird of
Uttar Pradesh /// Natural wetland hosting 217+ bird species, including 150+ Sarus cranes, serving
as a vital birding and nesting site /// Recognized as Important Bird Area by Bird Life International
and documented by BNHS /// Peak migratory seasons (November to March), it welcomes 50,000+
waterfowls /// Ramsar Convention, 1971, founded by UNESCO, designates wetlands of global sig-
nificance /// Named after Ramsar, Iran, where it was initiated /// Montreux Record monitors wet-
land sites facing ecological changes under the Ramsar Convention /// Designation criteria: rare
wetland types, supporting endangered species, maintaining biodiversity, providing refuge, hosting
20,000 or more waterbirds, and supporting other wetland-dependent species. Wetland Conservation
6. Earthquakes in Afghanistan: Earthquake strikes western Afghanistan yet again

/// Follows a series of recent quakes and aftershocks in the same area /// Result from: sudden litho-
spheric plate movements, releasing seismic waves /// Part of the Alpide Belt, a earthquake-prone,
situated in the Hindu Kush region /// Alpide belt ranks second globally in seismic activity, after the
circum-Pacific belt /// Hindu Kush is a young mountain belt stretching from the Atlantic to the Hi-
malayas /// Formed as Tethys Ocean closed due to plate collisions (African, Arabian, Indian, Eurasian)
/// Convergent plate boundary collisions lead to frequent seismic activity /// Chaman Fault and
Main Pamir Thrust are active fault systems that intersect Afghanistan, generating earthquakes.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
7. Environment Impact Assessment (EIA): Teesta dam breach and Himach-

al Pradesh floods highlight environmental concerns /// EIA assesses projects’ environmental, social,
and economic impacts before implementation /// Historical development:1976–77: Precursor to EIA
starts with river valley project evaluation /// 1994: Union Ministry of Environment introduces first EIA
notification /// 2006: Notification decentralizes process, allows state-issued Environmental Clearance
(EC) in specific cases /// 2020: Draft EIA criticized for favouring industry over ecology /// EIA 2006
Notification: Establishes procedure for environmental clearance /// Specific projects listed in sched-
ule require EC /// Categorizes projects but has consistent nationwide EIA thresholds /// Mandatory
for 30+ project categories /// Environmental Protection Rules, 1986 restrict specific projects without
EIAA approval /// Categorization into A and B projects:A projects need Central approval /// B projects
require State EIAA approval based on State Expert Appraisal Committee advice /// EIA Notification,
2006 Objectives: Categorizes projects into A and B /// A projects need mandatory clearance; B proj-
ects have screening process /// Category B divided into B1 (mandatory EIA) and B2 (no EIA) /// Public
consultation structured with correspondence and site hearings /// No-Objection Certificates from
other agencies not required for environmental clearance.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols
8. Dam Safety Act, 2021: Sikkim’s dam collapse reveals DSA’s gaps in legislation and
enforcement /// India 3rd globally in large dams (4,407), after China (23,841) and the USA (9,263) ///
Over 6,000 dams in India, with 80% over 25 YO and 234 over a century old, need safety measures ///
By 2025, 1,000+ dams will reach or exceed 50 years /// Dam Safety Act (DSA), 2021:Focus: surveillance,
inspection, and maintenance to prevent disasters /// Applicable to: Dams over 15 meters or 10-15 meters
with specific design conditions /// Emphasis: Safety, risk assessments, and forward-thinking measures
/// National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS):Sets standards and regulations, chaired by National
Water Commissioner /// National Dam Safety Authority: Implements NCDS policies, supports State
Dam Safety Organizations (SDSOs) /// Resolves disputes and provides technical support /// Dam
Safety Unit: Dam owners create units, develop emergency plans, and conduct safety evaluations ///
Head of dam safety: Central Water Commission (CWC) Chairman leads national dam safety /// State
roles: State Committee on Dam Safety; State Dam Safety Organisation; Responsibilities include sur-
veillance, maintenance, inspections, hazard classification, and emergency plans /// Non-compliance
results in prosecution: imprisonment, fines, and severe penalties if lives are at risk.
Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.
9. Ball Lightening: Puzzled observers for generations /// Accompanied by hissing sounds
and strange odors, it remains mysterious /// Date back to 1638, hinting at its potential danger ///
Scientific recognition exists, though mechanisms are not fully understood /// Chinese study in 2012
confirmed its composition with elements matching local soil /// Ground strike theory suggests chem-
ical reactions between oxygen and vaporized soil elements create ionized air or plasma /// Glass-re-
lated hypothesis proposes ion build-up on glass surfaces generating electrical fields /// Microwave
radiation theory links ball lightning to lightning strikes producing plasma bubbles /// Rarely, ball
lightning observed in connection with earthquakes as bluish flames or floating orbs /// 2014 study
suggests specific rock types release electrical charges during seismic waves, causing luminous dis-
plays.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
10. Ancient Landscape under Antarctic Ice: Ancient river-carved land-

scape discovered under East Antarctic Ice Sheet /// Located in Wilkes Land region, roughly Belgium
or Maryland-sized /// Dates back at least 14 million years, possibly over 34 million years /// 2 to 2-3
km thick ice sheet above it present since years /// Shaped by rivers, tectonics, and glaciation over
geological time /// Evidence of past tropical vegetation, including palm trees /// Landscape in Au-
rora-Schmidth basins, near Denman and Totten glaciers /// River flowed 34-60 million years ago
as continents broke away /// Landscape consists of three upland blocks formed before ice coverage
/// Transantarctic Mountains divide it into eastern and western regions /// Greater Antarctica has
older igneous and metamorphic materials /// Lesser Antarctica composed of younger volcanic and
sedimentary materials /// Mount Erebus on Ross Island is the southernmost active volcano /// Indian
Antarctic Programme managed by National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research /// First Indian
expedition in 1981, ratified Antarctic Treaty in 1983 /// Dakshin Gangotri Antarctic research station
replaced by Maitri in 1989 /// Bharati Base made of 134 shipping containers, most recent operational
site.
11. Cloud Seeding: Experiment conducted by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune
/// CAIPEEX phase-4, conducted in Solapur (Maharashtra) during 2018-2019 summer monsoons ///
Aimed to assess hygroscopic seeding’s effectiveness in deep convective clouds and develop seeding
protocol /// Calcium chloride flares used for cloud seeding /// Convective clouds form as warm, humid
air rises through cooler air in the atmosphere /// Types of clouds tested: Cumulus clouds (fluffy with flat
base) and cumulonimbus clouds (associated with thunderstorms) /// Cirrocumulus clouds are high-al-
titude, small, fluffy cloud patches /// Artificially generating rain by introducing particles like silver iodide
crystals into clouds /// Methods: Static (introducing ice nuclei into cold clouds), dynamic (boosting ver-
tical air currents), and hygroscopic (spraying hygroscopic materials into warm clouds). Monsoon Updates
Science Tech
1. Karman Line: Delineates Earth’s atmosphere from outer space /// Located at 100 km
above sea level /// Established in the 1960s by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) ///
Designates astronaut to an individual /// Physically crossing makes minimal changes in pressure or
composition /// Serves as a regulator for aircraft operations /// Defines legal ownership of airspace
and outer space.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries
2. Medicine Nobel for mRNA Vaccine: Awarded to Katalin Kariko and Drew
Weissman for mRNA technology /// mRNA is a single-stranded RNA in protein synthesis /// Forms
from DNA during transcription /// Carries protein info from nucleus to cytoplasm /// Helps decode
DNA for cellular machinery /// Vaccines use viral protein mRNA to produce viral proteins /// Immune
system recognizes foreign proteins /// Antibodies protect against infection /// Quick response if ex-
posed again /// Marks pathogens for destruction /// mRNA vaccines don’t expose or infect individuals.
3. Physics Nobel for Electron Dynamics: Awarded to: Pierre Agostini, Ferenc
Krausz, Anne L’Huillier /// For attosecond pulses in electron dynamics /// Electron dynamics include:
electron behaviour in atoms, molecules, materials /// Have negative charge and rapid movement ///
Atoms move in femtoseconds, electrons in attoseconds /// Attosecond pulse is an ultra-short light
burst /// 1980s, femtosecond pulses were shortest /// Anne L’Huillier’s team created attosecond puls-
es in 1987 /// Pierre Agostini’s group produced 250-attosecond pulses in 2001 /// Ferenc Krausz’s
team isolated 650-attosecond pulses /// Applications: materials science, electronics, catalysis /// Med-
ical diagnostics: detect molecules for better imaging /// Electronics: potential for faster devices ///
Imaging and spectroscopy in various fields.
4. Chemistry Nobel for Quantum Dots discovery: Awarded to Moungi

Bawendi, Louis Brus, and Alexei Ekimov for quantum dots discovery /// Tiny nanoscale particles
(1-100 nanometers) with size-dependent properties, including light emission color /// Refers to be-
haviors at smallest scales, characterized by quantum effects like superposition and entanglement ///
Quantum technology utilizes quantum mechanics for innovations in quantum computing, cryptog-
raphy, sensors, and more /// Quantum dots improve display quality in LED lamps and TVs, emitting
vibrant light /// Aid in precise tumor removal during surgery and find use in small sensors /// Promise
in flexible electronics, enabling adaptable devices /// Applications: Compact solar cells to enhance
renewable energy, secure quantum communication, safeguarding sensitive data.
5. ARTIP Technology: Indian technology aids discoveries from distant galaxies observed
by South Africa’s MeerKAT Telescope /// MeerKAT is a precursor to Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
Telescope known for its sensitivity /// ARTIP’s image data processing is vital for harnessing Meer-
KAT’s research potential /// Developed by Thoughtworks in Bengaluru and Pune, ARTIP automates
critical processes /// Collaboration since 2017 focuses on data processing, calibration, and imaging
/// ARTIP processes MeerKAT data and is adaptable to uGMRT and VLA telescopes /// Comprises
sub-pipelines for calibration, cube imaging, continuum imaging, and diagnostics /// Calibration (AR-
TIP-CAL) calibrates data and extracts the target source /// Cube Imaging (ARTIP-CUBE) generates
sky images from calibrated data /// Continuum Imaging (ARTIP-CONT) focuses on creating images
from calibrated data /// Diagnostics (ARTIP-DIAGNOSTICS) offers insights into data processing
quality /// Contributes to discoveries like detecting the hydroxyl radical (OH) in a distant galaxy ///
Identifies massive hydrogen atoms (Rydberg atoms) in another distant galaxy.
ISRO Missions and Discoveries
6. Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path (APEP)

Mission: NASA to launch groundbreaking Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path
(APEP) mission /// 3 rockets launch during solar eclipse on October 14, 2023 to study impact on
Earth’s ionosphere /// Led by Aroh Barjatya (Indian-origin), an engineering physics professor at Emb-
ry-Riddle Aeronautical University /// Ionosphere is vital for satellite communications /// Temperature
and density changes in ionosphere during Eclipse /// Can disrupt GPS and satellite communications
applications on Earth.
7. Watermeal- Earth’s Tiniest Flowering Plant: Researched for astro-

naut nutrition and oxygen source by Thailand University scientists /// Collaboration with ESA’s
ESTEC technical centre in the Netherlands /// Hypergravity conditions tested on watermeal using
ESA’s Large Diameter Centrifuge (LDC), simulating gravity up to 20 times Earth’s /// Watermeal lacks
roots, stems, leaves, floats on water, ideal for studying gravity effects /// Prolific oxygen producer
through photosynthesis, protein-rich /// Consumed in Thailand and Asia in soups, salads, high nutri-
tional value /// Future in space-based agriculture due to nutrition and edibility.
8. Iron Dome Anti-Missile System: Israel’s anti-missile system, renowned for

intercepting over 5,000 rockets from Gaza /// Designed to defend against short-range rockets by in-
tercepting them in mid-air /// Effectively handle multiple rockets simultaneously at a time /// Devel-
oped by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries, operational since March
2011 /// 3 components: radar for detection, a command-and-control system for threat assessment, and
interceptor for rocket destruction /// Detects, analyzes, and intercepts various threats like mortars,
rockets, and artillery /// Powered by missile-defence batteries /// Operates seamlessly in all weather
conditions, day or night, including fog, rain, and dust storms /// 40 miles or less is the range of target
missiles /// Can be relocated for adaptable defense strategies, whether on land or ships.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology
9. CAR-T Cell Therapy for Cancer: DCGI authorized this therapy by Immu-
noACT for the Indian market /// CAR-T stands for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy /// Uses
genetically modified T cells to target and destroy cancer cells /// T cells are white blood cells recog-
nizing antigens; CAR-T cells engineered to target cancer /// Therapy process: T cell collection, genetic
modification, infusion back into the patient /// Chemotherapy may precede CAR-T cell infusion for
improved effectiveness /// Effective against specific cancers, FDA-approved for haematological ma-
lignancies like leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences
10. Chemotherapy Efficacy in Cancer Treatment: Recent study re-

veals insights into cancer cell resistance to Taxol /// Enhances treatment for cancer and its strate-
gies /// Chemotherapy challenges involve harming healthy cells during cancer cell targeting /// Anti-
body-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) offer a targeted approach to reduce side effects /// Taxol resistance in
some cancer cells is a concern /// ABCB1 gene location influences Taxol resistance /// Moves deeper
into the nucleus in resistant cells /// Leads to increased RNA and P-gp efflux pump production /// P-gp
pump removes Taxol, allowing cancer cells to survive /// Lamin B Receptor (LBR) anchors ABCB1
gene in sensitive cells /// LBR absence allows ABCB1 activation when exposed to Taxol /// Variations
exist in how cancer cells respond to LBR depletion /// Lung cancer cells express high ABCB1 RNA
levels but show minimal Taxol resistance after LBR depletion /// Breast cancer cells become more
Taxol-resistant when LBR is depleted, unlike head and neck cancer cells /// Cancer cell responses
vary based on their reliance on LBR for gene tethering to the nuclear envelope.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
11. Gaganyaan TV D1 Successful Test: Success of TV D1 Test flight for Ga-

ganyaan Mission /// Liquid-propelled single-stage Test Vehicle aka TV D1 /// Simulated abort con-
dition during ascent, matching Gaganyaan Mach 1.2 /// Payloads: Crew Module (CM), Crew Escape
Systems (CES), CM fairing (CMF), and Interface Adapters /// Crew Escape System ensures astronaut
safety, ejecting CM in emergencies /// Used a modified VIKAS engine, 34.9 meters tall, 44-tonne lift-
off weight /// Structure: Single-walled unpressurized aluminum with simulated thermal protection
/// Vital for Gaganyaan: Three astronauts into 400-kilometer orbit for three days.
ISRO Missions and Discoveries
12. Siena Galaxy Atlas: Digital collection of 400,000 galaxies near Milky Way /// Cre-
ated from 3 surveys conducted between 2014- 2017 /// Surveys used: Cerro Tololo Inter-American
Observatory (CTIO) and Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO) /// Known as DESI Legacy Surveys,
they underpin the SGA /// Aid astronomers in understanding the universe /// Enables precise inves-
tigations aligned with the latest astronomical findings /// Supports studies on galaxy birth, dark
matter distribution, gravitational waves.
13. TRIDENT Telescope: TRIDENT underwater telescope launched in the South China
Sea /// World’s largest “ghost particle” detector ever built by China /// Acronym for: Tropical Deep-
sea Neutrino Telescope (TRIDENT) /// Study range: Spans 7.5 cubic km, 10,000 times more sensitive
than current detectors /// IceCube in Antarctica, spanning 1 cubic km, is the largest existing neutrino
telescope /// Neutrinos (Ghost particles): Tiny, Chargeless particles, recent evidence suggests they
have slight mass /// Rarely interact, challenging to detect; they interact with particles like water mol-
ecules /// Create light flashes known as “muons,” detectable by advanced underwater telescopes ///
They defy physics rules, origin remains uncertain /// May have played a role in the early universe,
possibly post-big bang.
14. Working of SIM Cards: Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards are vital
in today’s smartphone era for cellular networks /// Carry unique international identity of mobile
subscriber (IMSI) /// Necessary for mobiles to connect to Global System for Mobile Communications
(GSM) networks /// Secure connections rely on special authentication keys (SAK) /// SIM cards store
IMSI, circuit card identifier, location area identity, and preferred networks /// May contain emer-
gency contacts, SMS messages, and subscriber data /// Comply with ISO/IEC 7816 standard, have
segmented metal contacts /// Phone sends authenticated data via SIM card to confirm recipient’s
identity /// Evolution dates to late 1960s, with size and architecture changes /// European Telecom-
munications Standards Institute (ETSI) sets SIM card standards /// Transition to eSIMs eliminates
physical replacements, reduces waste /// Loaded onto permanent UICC during manufacturing, en-
hances security and reduces environmental impact.
15. Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF): IIT Bombay’s break-

through in Heat Absorption and Storage /// NCF boasts an astounding solar-thermal conversion
efficiency exceeding 87% /// Unique interconnected carbon cone arrangement /// Captures over 97%
of sunlight’s UV, visible, and infrared rays /// Manufacturing through chemical vapor deposition for
large-scale production /// Balance high photon thermalization with low phonon thermal conductivi-
ty /// Adaptable to various surfaces: paper, elastomer, metal, and terracotta clay /// Efficiently trans-
fers generated heat to air or water, suitable for smoke-free space heating /// Especially beneficial in
cold regions like Leh and Ladakh /// Eco-friendly and economical alternative to heavy metal-based
coatings /// Ideal for room heating: Hollow copper tubes coated with NCF achieve temperatures
exceeding 72 degrees Celsius /// Exceptional vapor conversion efficiency of 186%, surpassing com-
mercial solar stills.
16. Calculating Moon Age: Research challenges long-held belief that the moon
is approximately 4.42 billion years old /// Atom Probe Tomography (APT) used to analyze lu-
nar sample 72255, containing ancient zircon crystals /// Zircon- oldest mineral on Earth, pro-
vides insights into planetary formation /// Scientists employed nanoscale spatial resolution and
lead clustering analysis /// Revised estimate age: 4.46 billion years ago /// Moon’s age compared
to Earth estimated 4.5 to 4.6 billion years /// Giant Impact Hypothesis proposes a Mars-sized
body named Theia collided with Earth, leading to moon formation /// Resulting Lunar Magma
Ocean influenced the moon’s interior composition. International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries
Art and Culture

1. Sammakka-Sarakka University: Approval of Central Tribal University in Tel-
angana reflects Sammakka-Sarakka festival’s cultural and historical importance /// Legendary moth-
er-daughter, resisted oppressive rulers and taxation on Koya tribal people /// Sammakka transformed
into a vermillion casket after her daughter Saralamma’s sacrifice /// Jatara (Fest) is a biennial tribal
festival in Medaram, Telangana, one of the world’s largest tribal gatherings /// “Kumbh Mela of trib-
als” now attracts millions from neighbouring states /// Declared state festival in 1996, holds political
and social significance in Telangana /// University, approved by the Union cabinet, to be in Mulugu
district, Telangana, costing Rs 889 crore /// Fulfils the promise under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisa-
tion Act, 2014 /// Aims to promote tribal education and culture, bridging the academic and cultural
significance of the Sammakka-Sarakka legend.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News
2. Hakki- Pikki Tribes: Stranded in Sudan due to violent clashes /// Originated from
northern India, migrated to Karnataka /// Known for bird hunting, which is now illegal /// Language
spoken: ‘Vaagri’ (Indo-Aryan) and use Kannada for daily life /// Mainly found in Shivamogga, Davana-
gere, and Mysuru districts of Karnataka /// Matriarchal community with significant roles for women
in decision-making /// Known for selling indigenous medicines based on plant and herb knowledge
/// UNESCO listed ‘Vaagri’ as an endangered language, underlining the need for preservation.
Tribes in News
3. Alupa Dynasty Inscription: Rare inscription uncovered in Someshwara near

Mangaluru, Karnataka /// Undated, the inscription is paleographically dated to the 12th century ///
Kannada script below announcing Alupendra I’s death /// Human figures depict Kulashekara Alupen-
dra /// First figure: standing in Tribhanga, sword in right hand, left hand on Gurani (shield) /// Second
figure: Seated in meditation (dhyana mudra) to the left /// Kulashekara Alupendra I, renowned
Alupa ruler in South Canara /// Founded Kulashekara city in Mangaluru, established temple adminis-
tration rules /// Patronized Tulu language and culture, ruled from Mangaluru and Barkuru /// Somal
Cult confluence found in Someshwara Temple /// Reigned over Tulunadu from 1156-1215 A.D., as
per other records.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News
4. Edakkal Caves: Kerala Tourism initiated Edakkal Caves improvement project in

Wayanad /// Located in Wayanad district, these caves exhibit prehistoric rock art /// Natural clefts
in Ambukutty Mala hill /// Discovered in 1890 by British police official Fred Fawcett /// Aka “Ampu-
kuthy Mala” believed to be created by Rama’s sons, Lava and Kusha /// Proximity to ancient trade
route linking Mysore Mountains and Malabar Coast ports /// Pictorial writings of 6,000 BCE during
the Neolithic period /// Muniyaras (ancient burial sites) also present near to these caves ///Rare
Stone Age carvings, unique in South India, from the Mesolithic era /// Petroglyphs depict humans,
animals, tools, and enigmatic symbols, reflecting rich cultural heritage /// Link to IVC (Indus Valley
civilization) due to some cave paintings.
History- Important places, persons in news
5. Baba Farid and his Jerusalem Connect: Indian Hospice in Jerusalem

stands as a testament to India’s enduring presence amidst the city’s complex history /// Owned
by Waqf Board of India, is accessible to Indian citizens and those of Indian heritage /// Provides
guest rooms, a mosque, a library, a dining hall, and encourages guests to manage their cooking
and laundry /// Established in the 12th century, it signifies an 800-year-old connection between
India and Jerusalem /// Baba Farid, a revered Sufi saint, meditated at this site, inspiring Indi-
an Muslims to visit for prayer /// Transformed into a sacred shrine and hospice for Indian travel-
lers /// Born in 1173 CE in present-day Pakistan, followed the Chishti Order and influenced Sikh-
ism /// Lodging in Jerusalem, known as Bab-az-Zahra among Muslims and Herod’s Gate among
Christians, was within a khanqah /// Hospice saw prominence during Ottoman era, supported
by sheikhs from South Asia /// Offered refuge to Indian soldiers during World War II /// Gained
official recognition from the Indian embassy in Egypt /// Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansa-
ri administers it and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. History- Important places, persons in news
6. Kathaprasangam Art: Kerala stage art, emerged in the mid-20th century /// Started by
Kumaranasan (1873-1924) to educate and inspire underprivileged /// Rooted in Sree Narayana Guru’s
principles, addresses oppression and triumph /// Composition: Mixes prose, song, harmonium, and
tabla; tells stories /// Young performers compete, marks affect their progress /// Social connect: Direct,
urgent communication of societal issues /// Fought casteism and superstitions over a century ago /// Re-
mains relevant amid religious tensions threatening harmony. Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News
Modern India History

1. Battle of Colachel (1741): King Marthanda Varma led Travancore won against
Dutch East India Company /// First Asian victory over Europeans /// Ended Dutch colonialism in In-
dia, shaped unified Travancore state /// Travancore Initially fragmented territories and chieftaincies
/// Unified Travancore by annexing regions and removing internal opposition /// Ambition alarmed
neighbors like Kayamukulam, Kollam, leading to Dutch seeking Dutch intervention /// MV’s military
relations with English worsened Dutch-Travancore relations /// Dutch officials defected to Travan-
core due to internal issues /// Cochin and Kayamukulam rulers instigated Dutch against Varma ///
Dutch attacked villages and Travancore army in February 1741 /// MV deployed Rama Iyer Dalawah
to protect his kingdom /// French supported Varma, English participated in the siege /// Explosions
devastated Dutch, leading to surrender /// Only 24 Dutchmen survived, Travancore captured 389
muskets, cannons, swords /// Mukkuvar fishermen assisted MV to defeat Dutch, aiding Travancore’s
victory /// Victory boosted Varma’s expansion and resistance to colonial rule /// Dutch never fully
recovered, signed Treaty of Mavelikkara in 1753, ending Kerala coast dominance.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News
2. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (1817-1898): Prominent figure of 19th-century with

diverse education /// “Asbab-e-Baghawat-e-Hind” highlighted British policies causing Indian antag-
onism /// Member of Viceroy’s Council: Non-official Indian members from 1861; Khan nominated
in 1878 /// Supported for Indian representation in government and civil services /// Emphasized
interfaith understanding and modern scientific education /// Founded the Scientific Society of
Aligarh in 1863 and later Aligarh Muslim University /// Promoted social reforms through publica-
tions and magazines /// Controversial views on women’s education, initially focusing on familial
duties /// All-India Muhammadan Educational Congress established in Aligarh /// Initiated the
Aligarh Movement, aiming for social reforms among Indian Muslims /// Sought to harmonize Islam
with modern, liberal culture /// Up to 1887: Advocated Hindu-Muslim unity in the first phase /// Af-
ter 1887: Believed representative government impractical due to India’s diversity /// Laid foundation
for Two-Nation Theory, emphasizing separate interests of Hindus and Muslims /// Established An-
glo-Muslim alliance to counter Congress influence.
History- Important places, persons in news

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OCTOBER 2023

1. Cover multiple sources DAILY: The Hindu, IE, PIB, etc.

Subject No. of Topics

4. Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant: First shipment of Russian uranium arrives at

6. Card-on-File Tokenisation (CoFT): RBI proposed Card-on-File Tokenisa-

7. Economic Nobel for Gender Gap Research: Awarded to Claudia Gol-

8. Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework: PCA framework ex-

17. ‘Namo Bharat’ Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS): First

22. EV Charging Standard for Bikes and Scooters: BIS approves

24. Lewis Model of Economic Development: India is deviating from Lewis’

25. QR Code on Food Products: FSSAI recommends QR codes on food products

Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

2. AP Guaranteed Pension System (GPS): Bill passed in Andhra assembly

3. State of Global Internet Freedom in 2023: Declined for 13th consecutive

4. Habitat Rights to Baiga Tribals: Chhattisgarh grants habitat rights to Bai-

7. International Classification of Diseases (ICD): Traditional Indian

8. Money Laundering Case against Political Party: ED books AAP in

9. Gyan Sahayak Scheme: Controversial scheme for contractual teachers in Guja-

11. DNA and Face Matching Systems at Police Stations: To be intro-

6. Article 142 of Indian Constitution: It titled ‘Enforcement of decrees and

2. Cape Town Convention for Aircraft Leasing: MCA issued notification

4. India-Sri Lanka Ferry Service: Palk Strait connectivity using high-

5. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): Sri

7. Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations: Indian MEA cites Ar-

9. 76 Years of United Nations: October 24 is celebrated as UN Day /// Post-WW I and

2. UAPA invoked against News Agency: ED accuses money laundering, al-

3. Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT): Russia considers

Enviro & Biodiversity

2. Climate Change Trends Terminology: Studies highlight various climate

3. Ozone Hole detected over Antarctica: Copernicus Sentinel 5P Satellite

6. Earthquakes in Afghanistan: Earthquake strikes western Afghanistan yet again

7. Environment Impact Assessment (EIA): Teesta dam breach and Himach-

10. Ancient Landscape under Antarctic Ice: Ancient river-carved land-

4. Chemistry Nobel for Quantum Dots discovery: Awarded to Moungi

6. Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path (APEP)

7. Watermeal- Earth’s Tiniest Flowering Plant: Researched for astro-

8. Iron Dome Anti-Missile System: Israel’s anti-missile system, renowned for

10. Chemotherapy Efficacy in Cancer Treatment: Recent study re-

11. Gaganyaan TV D1 Successful Test: Success of TV D1 Test flight for Ga-

15. Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF): IIT Bombay’s break-

Art and Culture

3. Alupa Dynasty Inscription: Rare inscription uncovered in Someshwara near

4. Edakkal Caves: Kerala Tourism initiated Edakkal Caves improvement project in

5. Baba Farid and his Jerusalem Connect: Indian Hospice in Jerusalem

Modern India History

2. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (1817-1898): Prominent figure of 19th-century with

History- Important places, persons in news

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