Notes Aug 2023

Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - August 2023 Page No.
AUGUST 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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CONTENTS
Subject No. of Topics

Economics 16
Governance 7
Polity 17
International Relations 10
Security Issues 4
Enviro & Biodiversity 17
Science Tech 20
Art and Culture 9
Modern India History 6
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - August 2023 Page No. 3
Economics
1. New GI Tags Awards: New GI tags awarded by Geographical Indications Registry in
Chennai /// Udaipur Koftgari Metal Craft (RJ): Weapon ornamentation with intricate designs, gold/
silver wire embedding, polishing /// Bikaner Kashidakari Craft (RJ): Meghwal community creates
fine-stitched, mirror-work craft on fabric /// Bikaner Usta Kala Craft (RJ): Dapgar community uses
raw camel hide for golden-hued products /// Jodhpur Bandhej Craft (RJ): Ancient Rajasthani art of
tie-dyeing textiles /// Jalesar Dhatu Shilp (UP): Decorative metal craft, brassware by Thatheras com-
munity /// Goa Mankurad Mango: Also known as malcorada, with Portuguese-inspired name /// Goan
Bebinca: Traditional Indo-Portuguese pudding /// Kanniyakumari Matti Banana (TN): Sweet, small
banana variety cultivated in Tamil Nadu /// GI in India: Nodal Agency: DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce
and Industry /// India’s GI Act: Enacted in 2003 as part of WTO membership /// TRIPS Agreement:
GIs defined under Article 22(1) /// GI tag valid for 10 years.
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags
2. Vivad se Vishwas II Scheme: Ministry of Finance initiated a scheme to settle

government contractual disputes /// Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 /// To resolve long-stand-
ing contractual disputes involving government /// Targets cases with challenged Arbitral Awards ///
Arbitral Award brings finality to arbitration /// Introduces standardized terms, graded settlement
options /// To operate through GeM portal (Government e-Marketplace) /// Encompasses disputes
with Central government, PSBs, autonomous bodies, etc /// Court award cases can get up to 85% of
net court amount /// Arbitral award cases can receive up to 65% of net arbitral amount /// Earlier
Vivad se Vishwas I Scheme offered relief to MSMEs during Covid-19 period.
Tax Reforms
3. Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI): Services PMI reached a 13-year high of

62.3 in July /// S&P Global survey-based measure providing insights on changes in business variables
compared to the previous month /// It informs decision makers, analysts, and investors about current
and future business conditions /// Calculated for manufacturing and services sectors separately,
with a composite index also constructed /// Scores range from 0 to 100, where above 50 indicates ex-
pansion, 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.
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc
4. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): SMRs offer India a promising solution

achieve its ambitious clean energy goals /// Capacity up to 300 MW(e) per unit (1/3 of traditional re-
actors) /// SMRs produce significant low-carbon electricity, being small, modular, and using nuclear
fission /// TYPES: Small: Fraction of traditional reactor size /// Modular: Factory-assembled, trans-
ported, and installed /// Utilize nuclear fission for energy generation /// Enhanced safety features
reduce radioactive material release risk /// Designed for 40-60 years operation, capacity factors >90%.
Nuclear Energy
5. North East Venture Fund (NEVF): NEVF serves as a catalyst for startups in
the North East region /// Launched in 2017, boosting regional startups /// SEBI Category I VCF under
AIF Regulations, 2012 /// Independent Investment Committee includes professionals from venture
funding, private equity, and developmental banking for sound investment decisions /// RBI and CAG
monitor NEVF operations, ensuring compliance through regular audits /// Established as a closed-
end fund, aiming for a Rs100 crore corpus /// Contributors: Rs 30 crore from NE Development Fi-
nance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi), Rs 25 crore from SIDBI, Rs 45 crore from MDoNER.
North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues
6. PUSHp Portal: NPC seeks State input on incentives via PUSHp surplus power portal
/// Ministry of Power launched High Price Day Ahead Market (HP-DAM) and Surplus Power Portal
(PUSHp) /// Aims to enhance peak power availability beyond Rs 12 per unit ceiling /// DISCOMs
can list surplus power in block times on the portal /// Power-needing DISCOMs can request surplus
power /// New buyer pays variable charge (VC) and fixed cost (FC) determined by Regulators ///
Reassigned power’s original beneficiary loses recall right, shifts FC liability to new beneficiary /// DIS-
COMs benefit from reduced fixed cost burden and full generation capacity utilization /// Day Ahead
Market: Physical electricity trading within 24 hours from midnight /// Traded in 15-minute blocks,
prices and electricity determined by auction bidding.
Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.
7. Urea Gold: PM launched “Urea Gold” in Sikar, Rajasthan /// Urea infused with 17% Sulphur
(S), 37% nitrogen (N) /// Procote Technology adds micronutrient coating for efficacy /// Addresses
S deficiency, lowers farmers’ costs /// Urea Gold more economical and efficient than Neem-coated
urea /// Normal urea has 46% Nitrogen (N) /// Sulphur-coated urea releases nitrogen gradually, aids
crop uptake /// Humic Acid in Urea Gold extends fertilizer life /// 15 kg Urea Gold = benefits of 20 kg
conventional urea.
Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.
8. Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit: RBI launches pilot to

test ‘Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit’ /// Aims to enable smooth credit delivery by shar-
ing digital info with lenders /// Integrates services like Aadhaar e-KYC, land records, satellite data, and
more /// Developed by RBI’s subsidiary, Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) /// Benefits: Reduced
costs, quicker loan disbursals, improved risk assessment /// Features open architecture with open
APIs /// Objective: Efficiently exchange digital data for credit evaluation /// Consolidates data from
various sources into a unified repository /// Kisan Credit Card lending feasibility successfully tested.
RBI Notifications
9. PM E-Bus Seva Scheme: Scheme approved for city bus enhancement /// 10,000
e-buses to be deployed across cities /// PPP mode (Public-Private Partnership) for city bus operations
/// Support for 10 years /// Centre to offer subsidies, Rs 57,613 crore allocated /// Cities with 3 lakhs+
population covered, priority for those without bus services /// Two segments: Augmenting city buses,
Green Urban Mobility /// Upgradation: Depot infrastructure development, Power infrastructure for
e-buses created.
Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.
10. UDGAM Portal: RBI launches UDGAM (Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access
inforMation) web portal /// To assist public in locating unclaimed deposits across multiple banks
easily /// Collaborative development by: RBI, ReBIT, IFTAS, and participating banks work together
/// Facilitates depositors to search for unclaimed deposits from various banks /// Users can claim
deposit amount or activate deposit accounts /// Registration using mobile number /// Search under
depositor’s name with PAN, voter ID, driving licence, passport inputs /// Depositors complete KYC
at their respective bank branch to retrieve deposits /// Nominee submits documents if depositor is
deceased /// Unclaimed deposits inactive savings/current accounts for 10 years /// Unwithdrawn
FDs for 10 years post maturity.
RBI Notifications
11. Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP): NCAP for

four-wheelers from 1 October /// Program awards ‘Star Ratings’ based on crash test performance ///
Applies to type-approved vehicles of M1 category with GVW < 3 /// 5 tonnes, made or imported in
India /// Category M1 vehicles design: Passenger carriage with eight seats, excluding the driver’s seat
/// Voluntary for car manufacturers, testing upon their request /// Ratings based on Adult Occupant
Protection (AOP), Child Occupant Protection (COP), and Safety Assist Technologies (SAT) /// 3 types
of crash tests: frontal, side, and pole-side impact tests /// Frontal tests at 64 kmph, side, and pole-
side tests at 50 kmph and 29 kmph /// 5-star rating requires at least 27 out of 32 points for adult
safety and 41 out of 49 points for child safety.
Road and Highway Safety – National Road Safety Policy, Good Samaritans, etc.
12. Northern Sea Route (NSR): Rising Indian involvement in cargo traffic from
Russia /// NSR begins in Murmansk, Arctic’s changing climate impacts India /// Holds potential for
hydrocarbons and resources /// Over 40% global oil, gas reserves, coal, zinc, silver potential /// NSR,
shortest shipping route between Europe and Asia-Pacific /// Stretches from: Barents Sea, near the
Arctic archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, to the Bering Strait, separating Russia from Alaska /// 5,600 km
long, cuts distances up to 50% compared to Suez or Panama /// Suez Canal blockage in 2021 increases
focus on NSR /// Reliable route for India’s crude oil, coal imports from Russia /// Chennai-Vladi-
vostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) project considered /// CVMC links with organized container
transit via NSR /// 10,500 km-long CVMC reduces transport time to 12 days /// China, Russia’s col-
lective influence on NSR discussed by experts.
Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.
13. PM Jan Dhan Yojana: Celebrates 9 years with 50 crore+ bank accounts and ₹2 lakh
crore+ deposits /// Launched in 2014 as a financial inclusion program by the Indian government ///
Aims to provide affordable access to financial services like basic savings & deposit accounts, remit-
tance, credit, insurance, and pension /// Offers Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) accounts with no
minimum balance requirement /// Interest earned on deposits in PMJDY accounts /// Rupay Debit
card for account holders /// Includes an Accident Insurance of ₹1 lakh (₹2 lakh for new accounts
after 28-8-2018) /// Overdraft (OD) facility of up to ₹10,000.
Financial Inclusion in India and Its Challenges
14. REITs and InvITs: SEBI approves changes in REITs and InvITs regulations ///
REIT: Created for investing in income-producing real estate /// Functions like mutual funds, of-
fering liquid real estate investment /// Provides: income, diversification, and capital appreciation
/// Can be listed on stock exchanges /// Introduced in 2007 by SEBI for first time /// InvIT: Col-
lective Investment Scheme like mutual funds /// Allows direct investment in infrastructure proj-
ects /// Earns a portion of income as returns /// Listed on exchanges through IPO /// Regulated by
SEBI (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014.Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments
15. Chokuwa Saul Rice gets GI Tag: Rice from Assam’s Ahom dynasty obtains
GI tag /// Semi-glutinous Sali Rice with Bora and Chokuwa variants /// Low in amylose, yields soft
Komal Chaul rice /// Needs soaking, not cooking before consumption /// Used in delicacies like
Pithe and local dishes in Assam /// Mainly grown in Brahmaputra region and parts of Assam: Tin-
sukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Nagaon, Morigaon /// 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
16. Sanchar Saathi: Ministry of Communications launched the Sanchar Saathi portal ///
It is a citizen-centric initiative to empower mobile subscribers, strengthen their security and in-
crease awareness /// Developed by: C-DoT under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) ///
CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) for blocking stolen/lost mobiles /// Know your mobile
connections: To know mobile connections registered in your name /// ASTR (Artificial Intelligence
and Facial Recognition powered Solution for Telecom SIM Subscriber Verification): To identify fraud-
ulent subscribers /// Verification: Check the connections registered on their names, Report fraudulent
or unrequired connections, Block the mobile phones which are stolen/lost and Check IMEI genuine-
ness before buying a mobile phone.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc
Governance
1. WHO Report on Tobacco Control: 9th report on global tobacco epidem-
ic progress since 2008 /// Measures countries’ progress with MPOWER measures /// MPOWER
measures developed in 2008: Include monitoring, protection, help to quit, warning, bans, taxes ///
Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), 2003 aims for global tobacco health risk re-
duction /// Framework for governments, orgs on control strategies /// Legally binding for nations
implementing it /// MPOWER Measures Implementation:5.6 billion (71% of world) protected by
≥1 MPOWER measure /// Significant increase from 5% in 2008 over 15 years /// Countries Imple-
menting MPOWER: Expanded from 44 (2008) to 151 (2022); Brazil, Turkiye, Netherlands, Mauri-
tius adopted all /// 44 countries lack any MPOWER measure /// Focuses on Second-Hand Smoking
Control, promotes smoke-free spaces and destigmatizing smoking /// 1.3 million non-smokers die
yearly from second-hand smoke /// Measures in India: India excels in health warning labels on tobac-
co products /// Front-back health warnings on 85% cigarette packs /// India ranks top 10 in size of
health warnings /// Law in India: COTPA, 2003 in India: Regulates tobacco product ads, promotion,
sponsorship /// Prohibits public smoking, mandates pictorial warnings /// Sets rules for tobacco
sales to minors. Tobacco: The Silent Killer
2. BharatNet Project: Approved ₹1.39 lakh crore for last-mile connectivity to 6.4 lakh
villages /// Originally National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) launched in 2011 /// In 2015 be-
came BharatNet Project /// Connects villages with broadband via optical fibre /// Executed by BBNL
(Bharat Broadband Network Limited) SPV /// 1.94 lakh villages connected, rest in 2.5 years /// World’s
Largest Rural Connectivity /// Aimed 100 Mbps to 2.5 lakh gram panchayats /// Provides 2 Mbps to
20 Mbps broadband to households /// Pilot project by 3,800 entrepreneurs with 3 /// 51 lakh connec-
tions /// Connected villages see average 175 GB data consumption per month.
Digital India Initiatives
3. PM-USHA Scheme: MoU not signed by 14 States/UTs for PM-USHA /// Erstwhile RUSA
(Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan) funded institutions in States/UTs /// Launched in two phases:
2013, 2018 /// RUSA now PM-USHA under National Education Policy, 2020 /// Centrally sponsored
scheme via Ministry of Education /// 40% expenses taken by States /// Collaborates with 300+ HEIs
including state universities, affiliated colleges /// PM-USHA’s objectives: Access, equity, quality via
state-level higher education development /// Objectives include creating, upgrading, self-reliant insti-
tutions /// Funds flow via state governments to identified institutions.
Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.
Schemes
4. Annapurna Food Packet Scheme: Rajasthan launched the Scheme /// Over
1.04 crore families in the state to receive free food packets monthly /// Ensures no one sleeps hungry
in the state /// Each packet contains: 1 kg Chana dal, sugar, iodized salt, 1 litre soybean refined edible
oil, 100g chilli powder, 100g coriander powder, and 50g turmeric powder /// Distributed via POS ma-
chines to address NFSA limitations /// About 32 lakh NFSA and non-NFSA families received Rs 5500
during Covid pandemic /// Non-NFSA families also to benefit from Annapurna Ration Kit Scheme
/// Ration dealer commission increased from Rs 4 to Rs 10 per packet /// Ration dealers exempted
from fees without POS machines.
Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.
Schemes
5. PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Central Sector Scheme, Rs 13,000 crore budget ///

Activities: Skill Upgradation, Toolkit Incentive, Digital Transaction Incentive, Marketing Support ///
Operates over 5 years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28) /// Strengthening Guru-Shishya tradition among
artisans /// Enhance product quality, expand reach, and integrate artisans into value chains /// Pro-
vides certificate and ID card /// Credit Support up to Rs 1 lakh (First Tranche) and Rs 2 lakh (Second
Tranche) with 5% interest /// Offers Basic and Advanced skilling programs, including Rs 500/day
stipend. Rural Infrastructure Schemes
6. Scholarship Schemes for Religious Minorities: Concerns raised

about discontinued, reduced funding, and declining beneficiaries in minority education schemes ///
Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Initially covered minority students from class 1 to 10 but discontin-
ued from classes 1 to 8 due to RTE Act /// Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Aims to provide higher
education access, funding increased from Rs 515 crore to Rs 1,065 crore /// Merit-cum-Means based
Scholarship Scheme: Targeted professional and technical courses, saw a significant reduction in funds
/// Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF): Provided financial assistance to research scholars
pursuing M Phil and PhD, cancelled in 2022 /// Padho Pardesh: Offered interest subsidy on education
loans for overseas studies, discontinued in 2022-23 /// Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship:
Provided for meritorious girls in higher secondary education, zero allocation this year /// Naya Savera:
Offered free coaching for technical, professional courses, and competitive exams, discontinued /// Nai
Udaan: Supported minority students preparing for preliminary exams, no funds allocated /// Scheme
for Providing Education to Madarsas and Minorities (SPEMM): Supported quality education in
madrasas, received significantly reduced allocation /// PM Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK): Earlier
known as the Multi-sectoral Development Programme (MsDP), provided infrastructure in minority
concentration areas, budgetary allocation reduced.
Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.
7. Soil Micronutrients and Human Health: Critical link between soil mi-
cronutrients and human health, especially in children and adult women /// Essential elements in
smaller quantities required by plants than macronutrients /// Play vital roles in plant physiological
and biochemical processes /// Iron (Fe): Essential for chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthesis; defi-
ciency leads to leaf chlorosis (yellowing) /// Manganese (Mn): Crucial for photosynthesis and enzyme
activation; deficiency results in interveinal chlorosis and poor fruit development /// Zinc (Zn): Im-
portant for enzyme activity and protein synthesis; deficiency causes stunted growth and small leaves
/// Copper (Cu): Necessary for enzyme activity and chlorophyll formation; deficiency leads to leaf
wilting and reduced growth /// Molybdenum (Mo): Required for nitrogen fixation and enzyme activity;
deficiency results in poor growth and leaf yellowing /// Boron (B): Essential for cell wall formation and
auxin synthesis; deficiency causes distorted growth and reduced fruit development /// Chlorine (Cl):
Maintains osmotic balance and supports photosynthesis; deficiency causes osmotic imbalance and leaf
damage /// Nickel (Ni): Serves as an enzyme cofactor; deficiency exhibits specific symptoms /// DEFI-
CIENCIES: Soil-Zinc Relationship: Districts with higher soil zinc content have lower child stunting
and underweight rates, indicating soil zinc’s importance in nutrition /// Correlates with increased
women’s height /// Soil iron availability and anemia among women, affecting hemoglobin levels in
children and women. Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.
Polity
1. President’s Powers to Scrap Article 370: SC raises query about Presi-
dent’s power on Article 370 after Constituent Assembly dissolution /// Article 370 Clause (3) allows
President to make Article ‘inoperative’ or ‘modify /// ‘Required recommendation from J&K Constit-
uent Assembly’s /// SC’s View on Clause (3): Constituent Assembly not like permanent Parliament
or SC /// “Functus officio” Concept: Means duties done, no further authority /// J&K Constituent
Assembly became functus officio after framing J&K Constitution /// Provision about Assembly’s rec-
ommendation not applicable /// Constitutional Basis for SC’s Argument: Article 370 temporary,
but became permanent after 1957 dissolution /// Article 370 for J&K Constituent Assembly, convened
later /// ‘Temporary’ to let J&K people determine future /// Article 370 abrogation needed vote of
confidence in Constituent Assembly /// Legislative Powers of President a/c to Constitution: Sending
messages to Parliament’s Houses /// Summoning, proroguing Houses /// Dissolving Lok Sabha, or-
dering elections /// Nominating 12 members to Rajya Sabha.
J&K – The issues around the state
2. Money Bills vs. Financial Bills: DPDP Bill, 2023 clarified as an ordinary Bill,
not a money bill /// Initial confusion about its introduction under Article 117 of the Constitution ///
FINANCE BILL: Relates to revenue or expenditure matters, becomes a Money Bill if it exclusively
deals with Article 110(1)(a) to (g) /// Category 1: Introduced on President’s recommendation, Ex-
clusive 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 dis-
cussed in joint sitting /// MONEY BILL: Must be Certified by the Speaker /// Introduced only in Lok
Sabha /// Requires President’s recommendation /// 2016 Aadhaar Act: Doubts over verdict uphold-
ing Aadhaar Act passed as a Money Bill.
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc
3. Election Commissioner: Petition by against EC appointment dismissed /// About

ECI: Constitutional body to regulate and conduct elections /// Article 324 grants superintendence,
direction, control of elections /// Administers elections for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative
Assemblies, Councils, President, Vice President /// Functions under: Constitution’s Article 324, Rep-
resentation of the People Act 1951 /// Formed in 1950 with Chief Election Commissioner /// Later, 2
ECs added in 1989 (short tenure) /// Assisted by Dy /// EC (usually IAS officers), Directors General,
Principal Secretaries, Secretaries, Under Secretaries /// No specific tenure prescribed in Constitution
/// Tenure defined by Election Commission Conduct of Service Act, 1991 /// CEC/EC: 6 years or till
65 years, whichever is earlier /// CEC removal similar to SC judge /// 2/3rd majority in both Lok
Sabha and Rajya Sabha for misbehavior or incapacity /// Other EC removed by President on Chief
Election Commissioner’s recommendation /// No CEC impeachment so far in India.
Electoral Reforms In India
4. Criminal Defamation and Disqualification: Conviction stay in a def-

amation case holds implications for a prominent political leader’s parliamentary representation ///
Disqualification of Lawmakers: Constitutional provisions, Representation of The People Act (RPA)
1951, and Tenth Schedule govern disqualification in India /// Constitutional Provisions (Articles 102(1)
and 191(1)): Office of profit, unsound mind, insolvency, invalid citizenship /// Tenth Schedule covers
defection-related disqualifications /// RPA 1951: Mandates disqualification on criminal conviction ///
Section 8: Deals with conviction-based disqualification /// Section 8(4) previously stated disqual-
ification after 3 months from conviction /// Imprisonment of at least 2 years leads to disqualifi-
cation from conviction date, plus six years post-release /// Reversal of disqualification: Higher court
stay or appeal verdict in favor /// Lok Prahari v Union of India (2018): Stay on conviction by appellate
court prevents disqualification /// Appeals Process: Appeal to Sessions Court, then to High Court ///
Lily Thomas v Union of India (2013): Supreme Court invalidated Section 8(4) to prevent holding
public office during pending appeals, purifying politics.
Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.
5. Privilege Motion: Privilege complaints in RS against two MPs to the privileges com-
mittee /// Parliamentary privileges are rights granted to MPs for conducting Parliament’s business
/// Include free expression during debates and MPs being exempt from court proceedings for their
statements /// Breach of privilege can lead to a motion raised by any member, admitted by Chair-
man, then referred to Privileges Committee under Rule 203 /// Committee Membership: 15 members
in LS, 10 in RS, nominated by Speaker/Chairman /// RS Deputy Chairperson heads the committee,
while Lok Sabha Speaker nominates its head /// Examines breach of privilege questions, makes rec-
ommendations in a report /// Report presented within a month of reference, motion passed for its
consideration, amendments possible /// Raises two conditions: specific recent occurrence, matter
requiring Council’s intervention /// Speaker/RS Chairman’s first scrutiny level, can decide on mo-
tion or refer to privileges committee /// Expulsion cases: 1978, Indira Gandhi expelled from LS after
a committee’s year-long investigation /// HM Charan Singh moved breach of privilege resolution based
on Justice Shah Commission’s observations about Emergency excesses /// 1976, Subramanian
Swamy expelled from RS.
IOCR
6. Minimum Age for Contesting Elections: Standing Committee recom-

mends 18 year age for contesting Lok Sabha and Assembly elections /// ECI opposes due to lack of
experience and maturity /// Constitution (Article 84) and RP Act (Section 36) set minimum age at
25 for Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly elections /// Article 80(4) and RP Act (Section 43)
require minimum age of 30 for Rajya Sabha / SL Councils /// Legal voting age: 18 years (Article 326 of
the Constitution) /// 61st Amendment Act, 1988, lowered voting age from 21 to 18.
Electoral Reforms In India
7. Justice Rohini Panel for OBC Subcategorization: Submitted OBC

sub-categorization report to Ministry of Social Justice /// Took 6 years, supposed to take 12 weeks
/// OBCs have 27% reservation in jobs and education /// Sub-categorization proposed for equitable
benefits /// Commission formed in 2017 to assess reservation distribution /// Evaluate sub-categori-
zation need, scientific approach, errors in OBC list /// Faced data challenges for population compar-
ison /// Multiple extensions given, report submitted after 14 extensions /// Suggested Changes: Cat-
egorization based on historical exclusion and dominance /// Analysis showed 97% jobs and seats
with 25% OBCs sub-castes /// 95% opportunities from 10 OBC communities /// 37% OBC groups
had no representation, 994 had 2.68% representation.
Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.
8. Delhi Services Amendment Act, 2023: President’s granted assent to NCT

(Amendment) Bill, 2023 /// 69th Constitutional Amendment made Delhi UT with legislature ///
GNCTD Act, 1991 followed 69th Amendment /// Supreme Court’s Ruling: May 2023: Delhi govern-
ment control over most services, except public order, land, police /// Centre introduced ordinance
to give more authority to LG /// Key Features DSAA: National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCC-
SA) formed /// LG’s expanded powers to override Authority’s recommendations /// Ministers can
issue orders for matter disposal after consultation /// Duties of Secretaries include informing LG,
CM, Chief Secretary /// Removal of Clause 3A, giving Delhi Assembly authority on service-related
laws /// NCCSA no longer required to submit annual report /// Changes in appointment cycle for
authorities, boards, commissions /// Delhi LG empowered to select members from NCCSA list for
Boards and Commissions.
Delhi Full Statehood Issue
9. Language of Courts in India: Evolution: Urdu to Persian, Farsi scripts in Mughal

era, continued under British Rule /// British Rule: Introduced codified law, English as official lan-
guage /// Hindi as Union’s official language, with English for 15 years /// Article 348(1)(a): Supreme
Court, High Courts’ proceedings in English /// Article 348(2): Governor can authorize Hindi/other
language in High Court /// States’ Adoption: UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, MP use Hindi; Tamil Nadu moving
towards Tamil /// Official Languages Act 1963: English primary, but Hindi/official state language can
accompany judgments /// Fundamental Right: Litigants have right to understand proceedings and
judgments under Article 19 and Article 21 /// Subordinate Courts: Language remains as per CPC
1908, unless state government alters /// CrPC 1973: State determines language for courts other than
High Courts.
Languages and Eighth Schedule
10. Renaming Kerala: Kerala passed a resolution urging the Centre to rename the state
as “Keralam” /// Constitution’s Article 3 grants Parliament power to change state names, areas, and
boundaries /// Process initiated by Parliament or state assembly /// State legislature sends resolu-
tion to Central government /// Parliament needs President’s recommendation for the bill /// 5th
Amendment Act, 1955 introduced sending bill to state legislature /// State legislature’s views not
binding on President or Parliament /// Bill discussed and deliberated upon in Parliament /// Bill
sent to President for approval, becomes law if approved /// NOCs required from agencies like Rail-
ways, Intelligence Bureau, etc /// MHA gives consent after NOCs /// ‘Keralam’ possibly derived from
‘Cheram’ meaning region /// Includes the Gokarnam to Kanyakumari region /// Unification move-
ment for Malayalam-speaking regions in 1920s /// State Reorganisation Commission recommended
formation /// Kerala established on November 1, 1956, referred to as Keralam in Malayalam.
11. President’s Assent: President grants assent to key legislations, like Digital Personal
Data Protection Act /// Article 111 of the Indian Constitution governs this step /// Three options: As-
sent: Bill becomes law; Withhold Assent: Bill is rejected; Return for Reconsideration: Non-Money
Bills can be sent back for review /// Types of Veto: Absolute: Bill is rejected; Suspensive: Bill sent back
for more discussion; Pocket: President takes no action, bill remains pending; Qualified: Legislature
can override with higher majority /// Assent to Ordinary Bill: Assent: Bill becomes law; Withhold As-
sent: Bill is rejected; Return for Reconsideration: Bill sent back for changes /// Assent to Money Bill:
No reconsideration, President can give or withhold assent /// Assent to Constitutional Amendment
Bill: Assent is mandatory; can’t withhold or return.
Bills/Act/Laws
12. Cauvery Water Dispute: Tamil Nadu urged SC for immediate release of 24,000
cusecs from Karnataka /// Cauvery, ‘Ponni’ in Tamil, starts in Karnataka’s Kodagu district /// Span-
ning 800 km, it flows through Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and reaches Bay of Bengal /// Catchment ar-
eas: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Pondicherry /// Key tributaries: Harangi, Hemavati, Kabini,
Suvarnavathi, and Bhavani /// Perennial due to monsoons for rainfall /// Since 1892, tensions existed
between British-ruled Madras and Mysore /// 1924 Agreement aimed to resolve but set stage for future
conflicts /// Post-Independence, dam constructions sparked TN appeal /// Cauvery Water Disputes
Tribunal (CWDT) was established /// Interim orders by Cauvery River Authority (CRA) in 1998 ///
CWDT’s 2013 award allocated water quantities among states /// Monthly and annual water shares
by Karnataka to Tamil Nadu /// Normal Year, Karnataka must give 177.25 TMC to Tamil Nadu ///
Challenges arise during monsoon due to varying rainfall /// Article 262 empowers Parliament for in-
ter-state river disputes /// Seventh Schedule defines legislative authority over water resources /// 2018:
Cauvery termed a “national asset” by SC with river water equality upheld /// Cauvery Management
Board (CMB) established by Court for implementation /// CWMA and CWRC established for water
regulation and data collection.
Interstate River Water Dispute
13. Pardoning Powers in India: Bilkis Bano Case scrutiny triggers concerns over
remission fairness /// Article 72 empowers President for pardons, commutations, respites, remissions
/// Types: Pardon (full exoneration), Commutation (sentence reduction), Reprieve (execution delay),
Respite (reduced punishment), Remission (quantum alteration) /// Cases Covered: Court-martial,
offences under Union’s executive power, death sentences /// Article 161 grants Governor authority for
pardons, commutations, suspensions, remissions /// Limited to offences within state’s executive ju-
risdiction /// Excludes death sentence cases /// All actions influenced by Council of Ministers’ advice
/// Epuru Sudhakar Case (2006) establishes judicial review on pardoning powers to prevent arbi-
trary decisions /// Judiciary retains review authority, ensuring fairness and constitutionality.
Women Safety Issues – Marital Rape, Domestic Violence, Swadhar, Nirbhaya Fund, etc.
14. KN Rajagopal v M Karunanidhi Verdict (1971): Obstacle to Cen-

tre’s claim in J&K of “breakdown of constitutional machinery” /// Challenges Article 370 abrogation
around August 5, 2019 /// Verdict clarifies Governor’s role when Assembly dissolves /// Constitu-
tion Bench Verdict led by CJ SM Sikri supports Governor’s power /// Dissolution of State Assembly
makes Article 356 premise untenable /// President’s “breakdown” claim illogical when Governor
appointed by President holds power /// J&K: Assembly dissolved on November 21, 2018; President’s
rule proclaimed on December 19, 2018 /// Parliament approved on January 3, 2019; President’s rule
extended on July 3, 2019 /// August 5, 2019: Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order
introduced /// Parliament abrogated Article 370, reorganized Jammu and Kashmir next day.
J&K – The issues around the state
15. Special Provisions of NE States under Article 371: SC assurance

preserves Article 371’s NE states provisions /// Article 371 safeguards cultural, tribal identities to pro-
tect customs, practices, land ownership /// Northeast context: Preserving tribal cultures, identities ///
Article 371(A) for Nagaland: Exempts Nagaland from Parliament laws; Covers religious, social prac-
tices, Naga customary law, land ownership /// State Assembly’s approval needed for implementation
/// Article 371-G for Mizoram: Similar to Nagaland, safeguards Mizo practices /// Article 371B for
Assam: Facilitates ‘Meghalaya’ sub-state creation /// Article 371C for Manipur: Special provisions for
Manipur formed in 1972 /// Articles 371F and 371H for Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh: Address unique
needs /// Article 371 for separate development boards in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh
/// Articles 371D and 371E for Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa: Ensure cultural, economic growth ///
Articles 371J and 371I for Karnataka, Goa: Address specific requirements.
16. President’s Rule: Punjab Governor warned of invoking President’s Rule in the state ///
Governed by Article 356, allows the President to impose central rule in a state when the constitution-
al machinery breaks down /// Enables President to withdraw executive and legislative powers of
a state government that cannot function according to the Constitution /// Triggering factors: based
on a report from the Governor or suo motu when the constitutional machinery breaks down /// Can
be imposed for up to 6 months, with a maximum duration of 3 years, and requires parliamentary
approval every six months /// Origins traced back to GOI Act, 1935, which allowed the Governor of
a province to assume government powers in specific circumstances /// S R Bommai case in 1994 pro-
vided detailed guidelines on the use of Article 356, curbing its arbitrary use.
President’s Rule
17. Preventive Detention: Haryana violence: Some individuals placed in preventive

custody /// Aims to prevent law and order disruption without specific charges /// Police can ar-
rest without magistrate’s order if potential criminal behavior suspected /// Preventive Detention
Law, 1950, allows detention for national security, public interests /// Unlawful Activities Prevention
Act (UAPA), 1968, permits imprisonment for territorial threats or belonging to banned organizations
/// Article 22(1) and 22(2) in the constitution ensure rights of arrested individuals /// Includes in-
forming of charges, seeking legal representation, and magistrate appearance within 24 hours /// Ar-
ticle 22(3) excludes these safeguards for enemy aliens or preventive detention under specific laws.
Judicial Reforms
International Relations
1. Financial Action Task Force (FATF): Pakistan Senate approves bill for
central authority against money laundering and terror financing /// FATF established in 1989 out of
a G-7 meeting to combat financial crimes /// Financing of proliferation of WMD (Weapons of Mass
Destruction) included since 2012 /// Pakistan grey-listed since 2018 due to money laundering and
terror financing concerns /// Grey List: Countries aiding terror funding and money laundering; warns
of blacklist /// Black List (Call for Action): Non-compliant countries with FATF recommendations ///
Consequences: Economic sanctions, reduced trade for grey-listed countries /// Limited access to loans
from IMF, World Bank, ADB /// Risk of international boycott and reputation damage.
Terrorism and Challenges Related To It
2. Liability Convention, 1972: Debris from ISRO rocket found in Western Australia
/// Legal framework for liability due to space object damage /// Adopted on March 29, 1972, effective
from September 1, 1972 /// Launching state liable for damage to Earth’s surface or aircraft /// Applies
to all, governmental and non-governmental entities /// Strict liability regardless of fault or negligence
/// Up to 60 million SDRs Liability limitation /// Launching state liable even for unauthorized launch-
es unless not at fault /// Covers damage to Earth’s surface, aircraft; other space damage governed
by Outer Space Treaty /// ISRO Measures: Placed seven Singaporean satellites with PSLV rocket ///
Unique lowered fourth stage to 300 km orbit after customer satellites at 536 km /// Stage’s space
duration reduced to 2 months.
ISRO Missions and Discoveries
3. ECOWAS: Recent Niger coup highlights ECOWAS response to political crisis /// Founded
in 1975, regional intergovernmental organization /// Aims for economic integration, cooperation
among West African nations /// Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria /// 15 member states: Benin, Burkina
Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’ Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger,
Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Togo /// Created ECOMOG peacekeeping force for conflict resolu-
tion in Liberia, Sierra Leone /// ECOWAS Single Currency for common currency, counter-terrorism,
anti-trafficking efforts.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Africa
4. Raisina Dialogue: Prominent global think tank event, Foreign Secretary confirms ///
Organized by Observer Research Foundation (ORF) with Ministry of External Affairs /// Modeled
after Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue /// India’s top conference on geopolitics and geo-economics,
addressing global challenges /// Held yearly in New Delhi since 2016 /// Involves stakeholders from
various sectors, including heads of state, ministers, academics, private sector, media.
Ministry of External Affairs : Important Updates
5. Katchatheevu Islands: PM mentioned Katchatheevu Island during No Confidence

debate /// Uninhabited in Palk Strait, owned by Ramnad king /// Used by fishermen to dry nets,
jointly administered in British rule /// India ceded it in 1974 agreement after Sri Lankan claims ///
Later accord ceded fishing rights, didn’t hinder fishing /// 1976 letters agreed to stop fishing in each
other’s waters /// Demarcated IMBL after Treaties signed in 1974 and 1976 /// Fishermen crossed
boundaries due to no boundaries in sea /// Peaceful fishing until Eelam war in 1983 /// Post-war, Sri
Lankan objections to Indian fishing /// Katchatheevu fell on other side of IMBL /// Fishermen risk
crossing IMBL, face Sri Lankan Navy’s response.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka
6. Murmansk Port: Major ice-free ports for Russia’s trade /// Located on Kola Penin-
sula along the Barents Sea coast /// Established in 1916 as a supply point for the Russian military
during World War I /// Located 2,000 km northwest of the capital, Moscow /// Remains operational
throughout the year, offering unrestricted access for vessels /// Important node along the Northern
Sea Route, a shipping route that connects Europe and Asia via the Arctic Ocean.
Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications
7. Sulina Channel: Romanian route ‘Sulina Channel’ aids Ukraine’s grain exports /// Locat-
ed in southeastern Romania, within the Danube Delta /// Connects Danube River with Black Sea,
facilitating maritime transport /// About 64 km long, significant for shipping and navigation /// Vital
for cargo vessels, commercial ships, Black Sea access /// Constructed in the 19th century to improve
navigation /// Key for transporting goods from inland Ukraine to the Black Sea /// Ukrainian grain
ships use it to reach the Black Sea via Constanta /// Protected under NATO‘s watch against Russian
threats.
Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications
8. Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH): WHO and G20 India pres-
idency introduced GIDH /// Aims to enhance global digital health impact, promotes equitable digital
health access /// Goal: Share digital goods and knowledge, ensure inclusivity /// Aligns with Global
Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025 /// Provides quality technical assistance for interoperable
systems /// Enables governments’ digital health transformation with assured tools /// GIDH’s four
pillars: investment tracker, tech needs tracker, digital tools library, knowledge-sharing platform.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
9. BRICS Plus: BRICS Summit Conclusion: Expansion to BRICS-Plus /// 6 new members
added: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE /// Johannesburg II Declaration highlight-
ing global concerns /// BRICS was a grouping of the world’s leading emerging economies: Brazil, Rus-
sia, India, China, and South Africa /// Coined in 2001 by British Economist Jim O’Neill to describe
the four emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China /// Formalized in 2006, and South
Africa joined in 2010 /// BRICS represents 41% of the global population, 24% of global GDP, and
16% of global trade /// BRICS chairmanship rotates annually among the members, with India held
the chair in 2021 /// BRICS has initiated several collaborative efforts including the New Development
Bank (NDB) that funds infrastructure and sustainable development projects /// Contingent Reserve
Arrangement (CRA) provides mutual support and strengthens financial stability among BRICS na-
tions /// BRICS Payment System aims to create an alternative payment system to SWIFT /// Customs
agreements have been signed by BRICS to coordinate and ease trade transport /// Constellation of
remote sensing satellites has been launched in collaboration with BRICS nations.
BRICS Summits
10. Kashi Culture Pathway: Adopted at G-20 Culture Ministers meet in Vara-
nasi /// MONDIACULT 2022 declares culture a ‘global public good’ at UNESCO World Con-
ference /// G20 Culture Ministers met first in 2020, acknowledging culture’s cross-cutting
role in G20 /// Rome Declaration of 2021 positioned culture for sustainable recovery /// Cul-
ture integrated in 2021 with a Working Group /// 2023 group plans 4 meetings: Khajuraho, Bhu-
baneshwar, Hampi, and Varanasi /// Pathway addresses cultural heritage destruction, illic-
it artifact trafficking, property restitution, and indigenous living heritage protection /// Call for
a global coalition to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property. G20 : Economic Cooperation ahead
Security Issues
1. Havana Syndrome: Mysterious mental health symptoms in US officials in India ///
In 2016 US diplomats in Havana fell ill from strange sounds and sensations /// Symptoms: Nausea,
headaches, fatigue, dizziness, hearing loss, sleep issues /// Initially speculated as sonic attack; later,
directed microwaves suggested /// Microwaves: Electromagnetic radiation between radio waves and
infrared /// Use high-frequency radiation to heat skin, causing pain /// US report proposed high-pow-
ered microwaves damaging nervous system /// Suspected “microwave weapon” sends high-powered
microwaves /// First Indian case reported in 2021 with CIA director’s visit.
Internal Security Trends and Incidents
2. Assam Rifles: CAPF leading counter-insurgency in Manipur /// Oldest paramili-

tary force in India /// Origin from Cachar Levy formed in 1835 /// Name changes: Assam Fron-
tier Police, Assam Military Police, Eastern Bengal and Assam Military Police, Assam Rifles (1917)
/// Maintains law and order in North East, guards Indo-Myanmar border /// Also known as ‘Sen-
tinels of the Northeast’ /// HQ: Shillong, Meghalaya /// Dual control: administrative under Min-
istry of Home Affairs, operational under Indian Army (Ministry of Defence). Indian Army Updates
3. Project 17A: President’s launch of INS Vindhyagiri, concluding Project 17A (Alpha)
frigates /// Sixth vessel epitomizes indigenous defense technology /// Named after mountain
range in Karnataka’s Vindhyagiri /// Evolved class from Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, inte-
grating stealth, weapons, sensors /// Constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
(GRSE) in Kolkata /// Innovative propulsion system enables speeds above 28 knots for agility ///
75% of components sourced locally, promoting indigenous manufacturing /// Project 17 Al-
pha frigates initiated by Indian Navy in 2019 /// First ship, Nilgiri, launched in 2019 /// Aims to
create stealthy guided-missile frigates /// Constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL)
and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) /// With radar-absorbent coatings and
low observability /// Reduces infrared signals, enhancing stealth capabilities. Indian Navy Updates
4. Astra BVR Air-to-Air Missile: LCA Tejas test-fired Astra BVR air-to-air missile ///
Indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile by DRDO /// Intended for Indian Air Force (IAF) and
Navy /// Multi-target engagement, advanced air combat capabilities /// Integrated with Su-30MKI,
Mirage 2000, Tejas, MiG-29, MiG-21, Sea Harrier /// Ensures high agility, accuracy, single-shot kill
probability /// Dimensions: Astra measures 3.8m, 178mm diameter, launch weight 160kg /// Astra Mk-
II in development with extended 160km range /// Dual-mode guidance, explosive warhead, smoke-
less propulsion /// Speeds from Mach 0 /// 4 to Mach 2, 80km launch range /// Maneuverable up to 40
g turns against moving targets /// Astra Mk-III variant with Russia, features advanced SFDR engine.
Indian Missile Program Updates
Enviro & Biodiversity

1. Himalayan Vultures: Assam Zoo achieves India’s first captive breeding of Hima-
layan Vultures /// Native to Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau /// Among largest Old World vultures
and true raptors /// IUCN categorizes as ‘Near Threatened’ /// Notable for bald white heads, broad
wings /// Largest among Gyps species, 8-12 kg, 95-130 cm length /// Flies up to 5,500 meters, lives up
to 40-45 years /// Monogamous, return to same nesting sites /// Found in Himalayas, Tibetan plateau
(India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Mongolia) /// Diclofenac endangered vultures despite banned in 2006.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts
2. Perucetus Colossus Whale: Fossils found in Peru of ancient giant whale Peru-
cetus colossus /// Heaviest known animal, lived over 38 million years ago /// Possibly heavier than
a blue whale, although not as long /// Estimated weight range: 85 to a massive 340 tonnes and upto
100 ft /// Bones unusually large, extremely dense, showing pachyosteosclerosis /// Thickened, dense
bones not seen in modern whales but in sirenians like sea cows /// Suggests it lived in shallow coastal
areas, dived with air in lungs /// Heavy bones aided staying near seafloor during dives.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News
3. Clouded Leopards: International CL Day on August 4 since 2018 /// Breeding in

Manas NP, Assam /// Found in Himalayan foothills to Southeast Asia and South China /// Dusky-
grey blotches, spots, stripes on dark grey or ochreous fur, resembling clouds /// First cat genetically
diverged from pantherine cats around 9 /// 32 to 4 /// 47 million years ago /// Vulnerable in IUCN Red
List, protected in most of its range /// Inhabits dense forests in states like Sikkim, West Bengal, Tri-
pura, etc. /// State animal of Meghalaya, with a Clouded Leopard National Park in Tripura /// Unique
rotating rear ankles for climbing down trees headfirst.
4. Indian Eagle Owl: Classified as separate species recently, distinct from Eurasian ea-
gle-owl /// Aka rock eagle-owl or Bengal eagle-owl /// Large horned owl, found in hilly, rocky scrub
forests of Indian Subcontinent /// Brown and grey with white throat patch, black stripes /// Female
larger, up to 2 /// 5 feet long, six-foot wingspan /// Notable ear tufts resembling horns on head /// Pre-
viously Eurasian eagle-owl subspecies /// Usually found in pairs, known for resonant booming call at
dawn, dusk /// IUCN: Least Concerned.
5. Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO): Members met

in Belem, Brazil to combat climate change collectively /// Sole socio-environmental block in Latin
America /// First gathering in 14 years since the organization’s establishment /// ACR signed on July
3, 1978 /// In 1995, ACTO created by 8 nations to fulfill treaty objectives /// Member countries:
Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela /// Aims to preserve Amazon
basin, regulate development via international cooperation /// Four official languages: Dutch, English,
Portuguese, Spanish /// Amazon is vast tropical rainforest in northern South America /// Covers
Amazon River and tributaries’ drainage basin /// Bounded by Guiana Highlands, Andes Mountains,
Brazilian plateau, Atlantic Ocean.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols
6. Takakia Moss: Threatened by climate change /// Rare moss genus, adapted to high alti-
tudes over time /// Looks like green algae layer from afar on rocks /// Genus with two species (T.
lepidozioides and T. ceratophylla), both on Tibetan Plateau /// Developed survival abilities: frost,
UV radiation, hazardous conditions /// Combined features of mosses, liverworts, green algae /// Sep-
arated from other mosses 390 million years ago after initial land plant evolution /// Moss: Small,
nonvascular spore-bearing land plants /// Found worldwide except in salt water, common in damp,
shady places.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.
7. Deemed Forests: About 1% of India’s forest land /// Not officially notified as forests by
the government or historical records /// No clear definition in-laws, including Forest Conservation
Act 1980 /// TN Godavarman Thirumalpad Case, 1996: SC broadened forest definition /// Includes
statutorily recognized forests, reserved or protected /// Also covers areas recorded as forest in gov-
ernment records /// Provisions for forest conservation apply to all forests, irrespective of ownership
/// States define qualifying tracts as forests since 1996 /// Excludes land historically classified as
“forest” or protected/reserve forest.
Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.
8. Tachymenoides Harrisonfordi: Snake named after Harrison Ford for his en-
vironmental dedication /// For Ford’s commitment to environmental advocacy /// Length: Approx
16 inches (40.6 cm) /// Yellowish-brown color with scattered black blotches /// Black belly, vertical
streak above copper-colored eye, distinctive markings /// Found at 3,248 m altitude in a marsh.
New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered
9. North Sea Drilling Project: UK PM approved oil and gas exploration licenses
in North Sea /// Aims to curb production decline while aiming for “net zero” emissions by 2050 ///
Bordering countries: England, Scotland, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Norway, Denmark, Germany
/// Epeiric Sea on European continental shelf, connects to Atlantic via English Channel, Norwegian
Sea /// Key shipping lanes, fishery, energy resources, tourism along its coast /// Gained economic
importance in 1960s with oil and gas exploitation /// 1958 Geneva Convention established coastal
countries’ rights over continental shelves /// Continental Shelf Act 1964 facilitated exploration based
on 1958 convention /// Awarded first license in 1964, discovered gas in 1965.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.
Places in news
10. Yasuni National Park: Ecuadorians reject oil drilling in historic referendum ///
UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1989, spans 1M hectares /// Amazonian, globally renowned for
biodiversity /// Located in Ecuador in Napo and Pastaza provinces /// Covers around 9,820 sq.km
(3,791 sq miles) /// Earth’s most biodiverse areas– Houses 670 bird species, 150 amphibians, plus
jaguars, pumas, tapirs /// Waorani, Kichwa communities, with ancestral ties are indigenous tribes.
11. Umiam Lake: Lake in Meghalaya reflects Northeast India’s development-environment

balance /// Locally called Dam Sait, it’s a reservoir near Shillong /// Created by damming Umiam
River in the 1960s /// Catchment area spans 225 sq. km /// Assam State Electricity Board built it for hy-
droelectric power /// Umiam Stage I powerhouse has four 9-MW turbine generators /// Operational
since 1965, pioneering Northeast India’s reservoir hydroelectric project.
12. Fujiwhara Effect: Recent instance seen between cyclones Hinnamnor and Gardo
/// California’s wet winter due to “atmospheric river” storms /// Occurs when two cyclones inter-
act closely, spinning in same direction /// Intense dance around shared center, outcome depends
on strengths /// Stronger cyclone absorbs weaker, similar-strength may merge or spin /// Rarely,
merging forms mega cyclone with destructive potential /// First identified by Sakuhei Fujiwhara in
1921, observed in 1964 /// Effect can intensify primary circulation, complicate predictions /// Linked
to global warming, rising ocean temperatures /// Higher SST (sea surface temperatures) increases
strength of typhoons.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
13. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): Japan releases treated

wastewater from Fukushima into Pacific Ocean, endorsed by IAEA /// IAEA promotes peaceful nu-
clear energy, prevents nuclear weapon proliferation /// Established in 1957, headquartered in Vienna
under UN /// Ensures compliance with Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) /// Accountable to
UNGA and UN Security Council /// IAEA’s core mission: constructive nuclear energy use, prevent
military diversion /// Verifies non-military nuclear use, assesses declared activities /// Advocates
nuclear safety standards to prevent accidents /// Safeguards prevent nuclear program exploitation
for weapons /// Uses inspections, visits, monitoring for oversight /// Ensures absence of undeclared
nuclear materials, preventing unauthorized deviation.
Nuclear Energy
14. Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF): Ratified at GEF As-

sembly in Vancouver /// Aims to achieve Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework goals
by 2030 /// Financial contributions: Canada ($200 million CAD), UK (£10 million) /// Allocates up
to 20% for Indigenous-led projects /// Focuses on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), dedi-
cates over a third of resources /// Contributes to $200 billion commitment annually by 2030 /// First
council meeting in January 2024, aims for inaugural work program approval in June /// Global En-
vironment Facility (GEF) established before 1992 Rio Earth Summit /// Funds projects addressing
biodiversity loss, climate change, pollution, etc /// Financial mechanism for CBD, UNFCCC, UNCCD
/// Governing body: GEF Council; partnership with UNEP, UNDP, World Bank /// Funded by contri-
butions from member countries, both developed and developing.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols
15. State of India’s Birds 2023 Report: Reveals a substantial decline in spe-
cies despite the thriving of a few /// Collaborative effort of 13 organizations, including BNHS, WII,
ZSI, WTI, and WWF-India /// 30,000 birdwatchers shared the data for report /// Three indices used:
long-term trend (30 years), current annual trend (7 years), and distribution range size /// Among 942
species, many trends couldn’t be accurately established /// For 338 species with long-term trends,
60% declined, 29% stable, 11% increased /// Among 359 species with current trends, 39% declining,
18% rapidly declining, 53% stable, 8% increasing /// Specialist birds declined rapidly compared to
generalists /// Woodland specialists declined more than generalists, emphasizing forest conservation
/// Migrant birds, especially long-distance ones, declined significantly /// Resident species as a group
remained stable /// Diet influences decline; vertebrate and carrion feeders declined the most /// Ma-
jor threats: forest degradation, urbanization, energy infrastructure, pollutants, climate change, avian
disease, and illegal hunting /// Specific species: Sarus Crane, woodpeckers, and bustards face varying
trends.
16. Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: Faces habitat fragmentation due to a

railway track /// Located in Jorhat district, Assam, established in 1997 to protect western hoolock
gibbons /// Home to India’s only hoolock gibbons, and the Bengal slow loris /// Hoolock gibbons
known for their unique vocalizations and tree-dwelling behavior /// Found across Northeastern
India, including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland /// Vital for ecosys-
tem health through seed dispersal and forest maintenance /// Western Hoolock Gibbon classified as
Endangered on the IUCN Red List /// Eastern Hoolock Gibbon classified as Vulnerable /// Listed on
Schedule I of WPA (Wildlife Protection Act 1972).
17. Red Sand Boa: Report reveals 172 red sand boa (Eryx johnii) seizures from 2016-
2021 /// Rare, non-poisonous snake with applications in medicine, cosmetics, and black mag-
ic, highly valued in the global market /// Known as the “Two-headed Snake” due to its unique
tail resembling two heads /// Trading and possessing red sand boa violate the Wildlife Protection
Act of 1972 /// Classified in Schedule IV of the WPA /// Listed in Appendix II of CITES /// IUCN
designates it as ‘Near Threatened’ with a declining population trend. Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Science Tech
1. LK-99 and Room Temp. Superconductivity: South Korean scientists
claim room temperature superconductivity with LK-99 /// Apatite material named LK-99, modified
with copper substitution /// At 10% copper, LK-99 shows superconductor traits /// Sustains super-
conductivity with magnetic field presence /// Superconductors are materials with zero electrical
resistance BUT at very low temperatures /// Types: Lanthanum-Barium-Copper Oxide, Yttrium-Bari-
um-Copper Oxide, Niobium-Tin /// Kamerlingh Onnes discovered it in 1911 /// Four transitions mark
superconducting state:(1) Zero resistance to electric current /// (2) Magnetic field responses (Meis-
sner Effect, flux pinning) /// (3) Changes in electronic-specific heat during transition /// (4) Energy
level gaps indicating superconductivity /// Applications: Energy Transmission: Lossless long-distance
power transmission /// MRI: Strong, stable magnetic fields for medical imaging /// Particle Accelera-
tors: Crucial for high-velocity particle movement /// Maglev Trains: Frictionless high-speed travel ///
Quantum Computing: Potential for quantum state applications.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology
2. Voyager Mission: Lost communication with NASA /// Earth’s longest-running space
probe /// Originally planned to explore Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune with four space-
craft /// Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, were sent to explore Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune /// Pow-
ered by nuclear plant fueled by plutonium pellets, providing power for distant missions /// Car-
ried golden phonograph records with images, sounds, music, greetings for extraterrestrial discovery
/// Utilized rare planetary alignment to use gravity for fuel-efficient trajectory between planets ///
Equipped with 10 instruments including cameras, sensors, magnetometers, plasma detectors, etc. ///
Notable Achievements: Jupiter: Discovered Io’s volcanoes and new moons /// Saturn: Revealed Titan’s
atmosphere and surprising facts about its moon /// Uranus: Explored Uranus, revealing its constitu-
ents and new moons /// Neptune: First to fly past Neptune, unveiling storms, moons, and rings /// En-
tered Interstellar Space: Voyager 1 (2012) and Voyager 2 (2018) entered interstellar space, defining
edge around 18 billion km from the Sun.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries
3. DRACO Program: NASA partners to develop a nuclear-powered propulsion system

for faster interplanetary travel /// DRACO Stands for Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Oper-
ations /// Spacecraft orbits at altitudes of 700 to 1,994 kilometers for over 300 years to ensure safe
decay of radioactive elements /// Employs a nuclear reactor to heat propellant, increasing thrust ///
Utilizes less-enriched uranium and advanced safety protocols, minimizing risks and accidents on
Earth /// 10,000 times greater thrust than electric propulsion and specific impulse 2-5 times greater
than chemical propulsion /// Cut Mars travel time to 3-4 months, enhancing efficiency and reducing
propellant storage /// Nuclear reactions are more efficient than combustion, with a hydrogen gas re-
actor providing better fuel efficiency /// Faster travel minimizes astronaut exposure to deep space’s
harsh conditions, mitigating health risks.
4. Perseid Meteor Shower: Peak anticipated around August 13 /// Takes place in
August, around August 11th to 13th, peak on August 12th /// Occurs annually due to Earth passing
through the debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle /// Most visible in Northern Hemisphere ///
Appear to radiate from a point in the constellation Perseus /// During Perseids, see around 50 to 100
meteors per hour /// Occurs in warm weather, comfortable nights for watching /// Perseids special
for generating fireballs /// Fireballs are bright bursts from larger comet material.
Global Geological And Climatic Events
5. Tharosaurus Indicus: Recent Discovery of fossilized remains found in Jaisalmer,

Thar Desert /// Name reflects origin, Thar Desert and India /// Plant-eating dicraeosaurid dinosaur
from Jurassic period /// Shorter neck than other sauropods, unique body proportions /// Fossils
around 167 million years old, among oldest dicraeosaurids globally /// Provides insights into an-
cient life diversity in the Indian region /// Adds to India’s paleontological significance, contributes
to global dinosaur evolution understanding.
6. Maya Operating System: Indigenous cybersecurity boost by Defence Ministry ///

Developed in-house, draws name from Indian illusion concept /// Built on Ubuntu platform, em-
braces open-source principles /// Chakravyuh Feature: End-point anti-malware, guards against unau-
thorized access /// Windows-like interface for user comfort /// Supports popular software /// Micro-
soft Office, Adobe Photoshop /// Strong security: Cloud storage, encryption, biometric authentication
/// Responds to rising cyber threats to critical infrastructure /// Rapid 6-month development show-
cases expertise and dedication.
Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc
7. Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC): To be integrated into

Aadhaar enrolment devices /// Operates on L1 frequency, enhancing interoperability with other sat-
ellite-based navigation systems /// Provides real-time positioning and timing services over India
and a region approximately 1,500 km around the mainland /// NavIC, previously known IRNSS, con-
sists of seven satellites /// Three satellites are placed in geostationary orbit, while four are placed in
inclined geosynchronous orbit /// NavIC offers two services: Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian
users and Restricted Service (RS) for strategic users /// Operates in 2 bands: L5 (1176 /// 45 MHz) and
S-band (2498 /// 028 MHz) frequencies /// Other global satellite-based navigation systems: GPS
(USA), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (EU), Beidou (China), and QZSS (Japan).
Aadhaar Card Issues
8. HeLa Cells: Henrietta Lacks’ family settles lawsuit over her cells’ unauthorized use ///
Woman, died at 31 from cervical cancer in 1951 /// Doctors took her tumor sample without consent
/// Her cells grow indefinitely in cultured lab conditions /// Pivotal Contributions: HeLa cells aided
polio vaccine, gene mapping, cancer treatment, AIDS research, cloning, stem cells, and Covid-19 vac-
cines /// Posthumously awarded WHO Director-General’s award on October 13, 2021.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences
9. Earendel Star: Hubble Telescope found Earendel, the most distant star /// JSWT
confirmed its location and details /// Farthest star seen, post big bang’s first billion years /// Lo-
cated 12.9 billion light-years away /// Holds insights into early cosmic evolution /// Massive
B-type star, over twice Sun’s heat, million times brighter /// Belongs to Sunrise Arc galaxy, de-
tected via gravitational lensing /// Gravitational lensing: Massive object bends, magnifies light ///
WHL0137-08 galaxy cluster acts as magnifying glass. International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries
10. Russia’s Luna 25 Mission: Failed to land its first moon landing in 47 years, aim-
ing for lunar South Pole /// Soyuz 2.1v rocket lifted Luna 25 from Vostochny cosmodrome, Aug 11
/// Luna-25’s direct trajectory due to lighter payload, more fuel storage /// Lighter, no rover; Chan-
drayaan-3 has a rover /// Luna-25’s eight payloads study soil, dust, surface water /// C3 studies lunar
soil, water-ice, near southern pole /// C3 lasts one lunar day, lacks heating mechanism /// Luna-25
works for a year, has heating mechanism, alternative power.
11. Metagenome Sequencing: Pandemic drove rapid, unbiased genome techniques

for pathogen tracking /// Metagenomics directly sequences patient samples, IDs pathogens /// SARS-
CoV-2 quickly identified by this sequencing for COVID-19 /// Analyzes genetic material, reveals mi-
crobial diversity /// Detects known and unknown pathogens in high-throughput manner /// Rapidly
studies virus genetics, aids SARS-CoV-2 detection /// Nigeria found 13 viruses, linked dicistrovirus 2
to illness /// Pegivirus C linked to Lassa fever severity /// CovidSeq assay another genome sequencing
tech /// GISAID stores genetic info, aids genome surveillance.
Coronavirus – Disease, Medical Sciences Involved & Preventive Measures
12. Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s first solar mission, Aditya-L1, has arrived at the Srihariko-
ta spaceport /// Inaugural Indian mission dedicated to studying the Sun /// Launched via PSLV-XL
launch vehicle /// Will be placed in a halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 Lagrange point, situated
1 /// 5 million km away /// L1 point provides continuous observation of the Sun without eclipses,
crucial for monitoring solar activities and space weather /// Carries 7 payloads for studying the Sun’s
layers and its impact on space /// 4 payloads observe Sun directly, while 3 focus on in-situ studies of
particles and fields at L1 /// L1 is a stable point located 1.5 million km inside Earth’s orbit, between
the Sun and Earth /// Offers unobstructed solar observation, avoiding occultation or eclipses.
13. Agnibaan Sub-Orbital Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD):

World’s first 3D-printed rocket launched by AgniKul Cosmos /// Supported by ISRO and IN-SPACe
in their journey /// Customizable launch vehicle, one or two stages, powered by AgniKul’s patented
6 kN Agnilet engine /// Agnilet: 3D-printed, 6 kN semi-cryogenic engine, uses liquid oxygen and
kerosene /// Agnibaan SOrTeD takes off vertically, follows pre-set trajectory, executes maneuvers
in flight /// Capable of carrying payloads (up to 100 kg) to 700 km altitude in five configurations ///
First step toward launching world’s initial 3D-printed rocket into space.
Indian Missile Program Updates
14. Gene-Edited Mustard Pest-resistant, low-pungent mustard via gene editing mus-
tard variety created /// Enhanced glucosinolate synthesis in mustard plants /// 12 glucosinolate
transporter (GTR) genes categorized as GTR1 and GTR2 /// CRISPR/Cas9 used to edit 10 GTR
genes in ‘Varuna’ mustard /// CRISPR/Cas9 cuts DNA, inducing mutations in GTR genes /// Mutated
genes halt glucosinolate transport to seeds /// Gene-edited mustard is non-GM, lacks foreign genes
/// Contrasts with GM hybrid mustard (DMH-11) with foreign genes /// Resultant low-seed, high-
leaf glucosinolate mustard is genome edited (GE).
Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc.
15. Sodium Ion Battery: Indian start-up collaborates with Singapore’s Sodion Energy
for sodium-ion battery packs /// Uses sodium ions (Na+) as charge carriers, similar to lithium-ion
batteries (LIB) /// Structure includes anode, cathode, electrolyte, and separator, working like LIBs
/// NIBs shuttle sodium ions between cathode and anode during charge cycles /// Low-cost Na-ion
tech could cut e-cycle costs /// Abundant sodium availability reduces production expenses /// Of-
fer slightly lower energy density, better safety, and similar power delivery /// Don’t rely on costly
elements like lithium, cobalt, copper, and nickel /// Alternative to lithium, also replacing lead-acid
batteries.
Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.
16. National Space Day on 23rd August: PM announced National Space Day
(August 23) /// Chandrayaan-3 landing site named ‘Shiv Shakti /// ‘Tiranga’ would be Chandrayaan-2
landing site /// Encourages young people to become interested in STEM.
17. Somatic Genetic Variants: Recent sequencing reveals the impact of somatic ge-
netic variants on human health /// Somatic genetic variants are DNA non-inherited alterations within
an individual’s body cells /// Human genome consists of 23 pairs of chromosomes inherited from
parents, creating a genetic blueprint /// DNA replication includes error correction but still introduc-
es errors, leading to somatic mutations /// Accumulation of somatic mutations over time contributes
to differences in genetic makeup between tissues and as people age /// Drive cancer development
by promoting uncontrolled cell growth /// Contribute to neurological disorders through accumu-
lated brain cell mutations /// Impact tissue function with age, leading to age-related diseases etc ///
Serve as disease biomarkers for early detection and prognosis /// Enable precision medicine by
tailoring treatments to an individual’s unique genetics /// Study of somatic mutations associated with
aging informs aging processes and interventions /// Revertant mosaicism, where somatic mutations
revert deleterious changes, offers solutions for genetic diseases, such as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.
18. Naming Lunar Landing Sites: PM names Chandrayaan-3 landing site ‘Shiv
Shakti /// Moon is not subject to national appropriation as per the 1966 Outer Space Treaty ///
Naming lunar sites doesn’t contradict the treaty; it’s not addressed by the treaty /// Several Indian
lunar names exist, including the Sarabhai crater /// After Chandrayaan-1 in 2008, a crashed probe
site named “Jawahar Sthal” after Mr. Nehru /// International Astronomical Union (IAU) primarily
names lunar features /// IAU, founded in 1919, has guidelines for naming celestial bodies and features
/// Informal naming precedes official IAU names; many Apollo sites followed this /// May be named
after historical figures, scientists, astronauts, or cultural references /// National and international
space agencies can suggest lunar site names /// IAU naming norms: Names should be simple, clear,
and unambiguous, not duplicate, no political, military, or religious significance /// Deceased persons
must be honoured posthumously after three years.
19. Nabhmitra Safety Device: ISRO introduced ‘Nabhmitra’ /// Used for fishermen
safety /// Uses satellite-based communication for at-sea messaging /// Provides weather alerts, cy-
clone warnings in local language /// Fishermen to send distress messages during emergencies ///
Features an emergency button for direct control center communication /// Shares boat’s location
with the control center /// Crew receives a response message simultaneously.
20. Y Chromosomes: Y chromosome possess genes linked to ageing and lifespan reg-
ulation /// Neanderthal genome sequences show signs of Y chromosome replacement by modern
humans /// May relinquish its role as “master of maleness” in the future /// Thread-like structure
located in the nucleus of animal and plant cells /// Consists of Protein and DNA single molecule ///
Y chromosome is passed from parents to offspring /// Humans have 22 pairs of chromosomes and
a pair of sex chromosomes, X and Y /// Males have X-Y chromosomes, while Females X-X chromosomes
/// Y chromosome determines biological male sex and carries genes related to sex determination.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences
Art and Culture

1. History of Pepper Trade: Pepper, known as “king of spices,” influenced explora-
tion, colonization, and cultural exchanges /// Mention as ‘Yavanapriya’ in ancient Sanskrit texts ///
Archaeological evidence shows pepper use in ancient India (2000 BCE) /// Exported to Asia, North
Africa; found with Ramesses the Great (1213 BCE) /// Arab traders dominated by 10th century,
connecting India, Middle East, Europe /// Valuable as currency in Roman Empire, rent; demanded
during the siege of Rome (408 BCE) /// Led to Age of Discovery: Columbus searched for India, Vasco
da Gama found route to India /// Cultural Exchanges and Islam’s Spread: Malabar Coast, “city of
spices,” hub for international trade /// Various cultures traded there: Jewish, Christian, Muslim com-
munities.
History- Important places, persons in news
2. Bakhshali Manuscript: Oldest math document found in 1881 in Bakhshali village,

Pakistan /// Written in Sharda Script /// Predates Brahmagupta’s work, 7th-century mathematician
/// Birch bark, 70 leaves, fragile /// Contains math notations, early use of ZERO /// Zeros represented
by dots as placeholders /// Presented to Oxford‘s Bodleian Library in 1902 /// 3rd to 10th centuries
compilation identified by carbon dating /// Compendium of rules, examples in verse /// Maths cov-
ered: fractions, roots, arithmetic progressions, quadratic equations ///
Bills/Act/Laws
3. Sant Guru Ravidas: PM laid foundation for ₹100 crore temple in Sagar, MP /// Mystic
poet-saint from 15th-16th century /// Founder of Ravidassia religion, Bhakti movement /// Vener-
ated guru in multiple Indian regions /// Life details contested, born in cobbler caste /// Verses in
Guru Granth Sahib wrote by him /// Panch Vani text of Dadupanthi tradition includes his poems ///
Taught caste, gender unity for spiritual freedom /// Introduced “Be-gampura” concept of no grief
or fear City.
4. Malaiyali Tribe: From North Tamil Nadu’s Eastern Ghats known to have adopted mod-
ern lifestyle /// “Malai” (hill) and “yali” (people) define tribes in hilly regions /// Largest ST in the
region, around 3,58,000 people /// Primarily hill farmers cultivating diverse millet types /// Unique
Huts: Red clay on teak wood frames, close to nature /// 12-foot thatched roof with bamboo leaves and
cow dung waxing to prevent leaks.
Tribes in News
5. Red Fort’s symbolism for Independence Day: Independence Day at

the iconic Red Fort /// Built during Shah Jahan’s reign (1638-1648), the Red Fort is a Mughal mas-
terpiece /// Red sandstone walls and architectural design showcase Mughal grandeur /// UNESCO
recognized it as a World Heritage Site in 2007 /// Structure: Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas /// Italian
Pietra-dura work is also visible behind the flatform /// Once housed the famous Peacock Throne ///
Peacock Throne was plundered by Nadir Shah in 1739 /// Ustad Ahmad Lahauri was the architect
of the Red Fort /// Fusion of Timurids and Persians architectural styles /// Mumtaz Mahal, a white
marble structure, is Shah Jahan’s wife’s burial place /// Embodied Mughal authority despite dimin-
ishing control /// 1857 Rebellion highlighted the fort’s symbolic importance /// British transformed it
into a garrison, erasing its Mughal heritage /// Regained prominence during INA trials, becoming a
symbol of resistance /// Nehru’s 1947 decision to hoist the flag reclaimed the fort from colonial rule
/// Marks India’s sovereignty and the culmination of its freedom struggle.
6. Nagaparamba Megalithic Hatstones: Excavation in Kerala unveils mega-

lithic hat stones /// Hemispherical laterite “Thoppikkallu” lids for ancient burial urns /// 2,000-year-
old burial customs and culture /// Thirunavaya heritage sites are in vicinity /// Megaliths provide
insights into ancient civilizations and burials /// Mostly Iron Age (1500 BC – 500 BC), some predate
(c. 2000 BC) /// Erected individually or combined to form structures /// Types: burials, memorials
/// Structures: (1) Stone Circles (Cromlechs): Circular arrangements for ceremonies; (2) Monoliths:
Single standing stones, sometimes memorials /// Burial Sites: (1) Dolmenoid Cists: Box-shaped burial
chambers with capstones; (2) Cairn Circles: Stone circles, common for burials; (3) Capstones: Distinc-
tive mushroom-shaped Kerala tombs /// Menhirs- Large standing stones, often memorials.
7. Piripkura Tribe: Last Piripkura survivors found in Amazon rainforest, Brazil /// No-
madic tribe from Mato Grasso, known for traditional lifestyle /// Faces challenges from illegal ac-
tivities like logging, mining /// Encroachment threatens their land, deforestation looms /// Amazon
Rainforest spans Amazon River basin, 2.3 million sq miles /// Covers 40% of Brazil, bordered by Gui-
ana Highlands, Andes, central plateau, Atlantic Ocean.
Tribes in News
8. Evolution of Madras to Chennai: Madras Day, August 22, marks Madras’ (now
Chennai) founding /// East India Company acquired Madrasapatnam in 1639 /// Early 17th century:
East India Company seeks trade foothold /// 1612: Victory at Swally Hole secured trade privileg-
es /// Accord with Emperor Jahangir granted trading rights /// Trading posts “Forts” established,
like in Surat, Masulipatnam /// Proposal for Madrasapatnam due to tensions and Dutch presence ///
Madras’ name origin theories: Madresan, religious establishments /// Historical significance under
Pallavas, Cholas, Vijayanagara dynasties /// Fort St George founded in 1639 by Damarla Venkatapa-
thy Nayak /// Area named Chennapatanam, evolving into “Chennai” /// City’s expansion, Black and
White towns, mayor formation /// Post-independence, Madras became Chennai in 1996.
9. Self-Respect Marriages: Supreme Court validates “self-respect” marriages under

Hindu Marriage Act /// Overrules 2014 Madras HC ruling deeming advocate-performed marriages
invalid /// Advocates can solemnize these marriages as friends or relatives, not professionally ///
Public declaration or solemnization not required /// Aka ‘Suyamariyathai’ legalized in 1968 by Tam-
il Nadu /// Allows Hindus to marry without Brahmin priests or elaborate rituals /// Consent of both
parties and minimum age requirement needed /// An alternative to traditional marriages, rejecting
Brahminical rituals, caste, religion, gender norms /// Self-Respect Movement, starting in 1925, aimed
for casteless, godless society /// Led by EV Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) to reject Brahmanical cul-
ture /// Also known as Dravidian Movement, emphasized backward caste and women’s rights.
Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education
Modern India History

1. Anna Bhau Sathe (1920-1969): Politicians seeks Bharat Ratna for social reform-
er, writer Anna Bhau Sathe /// Tukaram Bhaurao Sathe born August 1, 1920, in Wategaon village,
Maharashtra /// Joined Lal Bawta Mill Workers Union strike in 1934, Mumbai /// Met R B More, Dr
Babasaheb Ambedkar’s associate, joined labour study circle /// Denied education due to Dalit back-
ground, learned in study circles /// First poem on mosquitoes at Matunga Labour Camp /// Formed
Dalit Yuvak Sangh, wrote worker-focused poems /// Progressive Writers Association with writers
like Premchand influenced him /// Wrote 32 novels, 13 short story collections, plays, povadas (bal-
lads) /// Popular Marathi Compositions: ‘Aklechi Goshta,’ ‘Stalingradacha Povada,’ ‘Mazi Maina Ga-
vavar Rahili’ /// Co-founded Lal Bawta Kala Pathak in 1943, toured for workers’ rights /// Dedicated
famous novel ‘Fakira’ to Dr Ambedkar /// Helped form Indian Peoples Theatre Association (IPTA)
in 1943 /// Influenced by Marxism, portrayed caste system’s reality /// Renown as Maxim Gorky of
Maharashtra, inspired by Gorky’s ‘The Mother’ and Russian Revolution.
2. Quit India Movement: August 9, 1942, India launched QIM for independence ///
Gandhi urged British to “Quit India” August 8, 1942 /// Congress leadership imprisoned, people em-
powered to act /// “Do or Die” spirit in masses, marked turning point /// Coined by Yusuf Meherally,
socialist leader, Mayor of Bombay /// Yusuf Meherally also coined “Simon Go Back” slogan in 1928
/// Cripps Mission Failure: Tensions grew, Cripps Mission failed /// WW2 context, British needed
colonial support, offered self-governance /// Promise betrayed as Cripps offered dominion status,
not freedom /// Provision for India’s partition was unacceptable.
3. Karnail Singh Isru: Isru remembered on I-Day for his contribution in Goan Liberation
/// Born on September 9, 1930, in Chak village (now in Pakistan) /// Inspired by national heroes like
Bhagat Singh and Udham Singh /// Engaged with student unions and aligned with CPI, showcasing
his dedication to freedom /// Joined fellow Satyagarhis in a journey to Goa led by Sahodrabai Rai to
challenge colonial rule and establish India’s sovereignty /// Passed away in 1955 during the Goa Lib-
eration Movement, advocating for Goa’s integration into India /// Marched from Pune to Goa with
satyagrahis against Portuguese colonial rule /// Rooted in experiences from Punjab’s anti-colonial
struggle.
4. Matangini Hazra: Born 1869 in Hogla village, West Bengal; faced poverty and lack of
education /// Widowed at 18, devoted to social causes /// Nicknamed “Gandhiburi” for her admira-
tion of Mahatma Gandhi /// Active in protests, arrested multiple times during Nationalist movement
/// Key figure in Quit India Movement of 1942 /// Led 6,000 protesters, Shot by British, died at 73
chanting Vande Mataram /// Sacrifice inspired local governments; Kolkata Maidan statue dedicated
in 1977 /// Honored through schools, streets, and areas across Bengal. Kanaklata Barua:
Young martyr at 17, symbol of courage in Quit India Movement /// Led Mrityu Bahini to unfurl Tri-
colour at Gohpur police station /// Overcame age limit of 18 for Mrityu Bahini /// Held Tricolour at
head of procession during confrontation with police /// Refused to release flag despite bullets, left
enduring mark on movement /// Legacy inspires generations; Coast Guard vessel named after her in
2020.
5. Madan Lal Dhingra: Recently inaugurated memorial in Amritsar on his 114th death
anniversary /// Born on 18 February 1883 /// Educated in Amritsar and London University College
/// Connected with revolutionaries like Savarkar and Shyamji Krishna Varma /// Joined Abhinav
Bharat Mandal founded by Savarkar /// Assassinated British officer Curzon Wyllie on July 1, 1909,
in London /// Trial revealed patriotic motives against British oppression /// Found guilty, hanged on
August 17, 1909, at 24 /// Disowned by family due to anti-British stance, even after death /// Mortal
remains brought to Akola, Maharashtra.
6. Ajnala Massacre of 1857: Recent geneticists confirm 165-year-old Ajnala massacre

/// 282 soldiers of 26th Bengal Infantry drowned in 1857 uprising /// Cooper’s book guides finding
1857 Kallianwala Martyrs’ Well /// Historians discovered Ajnala reference in 2003 /// 2014 excavation
revealed soldiers’ skeletal remains /// 500 Indian soldiers rebelled at Mian Mir /// Ravi River swim
led 218 to death at Dadian Sofian village /// 282 confined, asphyxiated, shot, and Thrown in “Kalian-
wala Khu” well.

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - August 2023 Page No.

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

Subject No. of Topics

2. Vivad se Vishwas II Scheme: Ministry of Finance initiated a scheme to settle

3. Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI): Services PMI reached a 13-year high of

4. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): SMRs offer India a promising solution

8. Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit: RBI launches pilot to

11. Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP): NCAP for

5. PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Central Sector Scheme, Rs 13,000 crore budget ///

6. Scholarship Schemes for Religious Minorities: Concerns raised

3. Election Commissioner: Petition by against EC appointment dismissed /// About

4. Criminal Defamation and Disqualification: Conviction stay in a def-

6. Minimum Age for Contesting Elections: Standing Committee recom-

7. Justice Rohini Panel for OBC Subcategorization: Submitted OBC

8. Delhi Services Amendment Act, 2023: President’s granted assent to NCT

9. Language of Courts in India: Evolution: Urdu to Persian, Farsi scripts in Mughal

14. KN Rajagopal v M Karunanidhi Verdict (1971): Obstacle to Cen-

15. Special Provisions of NE States under Article 371: SC assurance

17. Preventive Detention: Haryana violence: Some individuals placed in preventive

5. Katchatheevu Islands: PM mentioned Katchatheevu Island during No Confidence

2. Assam Rifles: CAPF leading counter-insurgency in Manipur /// Oldest paramili-

Enviro & Biodiversity

3. Clouded Leopards: International CL Day on August 4 since 2018 /// Breeding in

5. Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO): Members met

11. Umiam Lake: Lake in Meghalaya reflects Northeast India’s development-environment

13. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): Japan releases treated

14. Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF): Ratified at GEF As-

16. Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: Faces habitat fragmentation due to a

3. DRACO Program: NASA partners to develop a nuclear-powered propulsion system

5. Tharosaurus Indicus: Recent Discovery of fossilized remains found in Jaisalmer,

6. Maya Operating System: Indigenous cybersecurity boost by Defence Ministry ///

7. Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC): To be integrated into

11. Metagenome Sequencing: Pandemic drove rapid, unbiased genome techniques

13. Agnibaan Sub-Orbital Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD):

Art and Culture

2. Bakhshali Manuscript: Oldest math document found in 1881 in Bakhshali village,

5. Red Fort’s symbolism for Independence Day: Independence Day at

6. Nagaparamba Megalithic Hatstones: Excavation in Kerala unveils mega-

9. Self-Respect Marriages: Supreme Court validates “self-respect” marriages under

Modern India History

6. Ajnala Massacre of 1857: Recent geneticists confirm 165-year-old Ajnala massacre

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