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INDEX
Geography/Environment/Disaster Management 65 Global Methane Pledge (GMP)
1 NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source 66 Ozone
Investigation (EMIT) Mission 67 Ozone Depleting Gas Index
2 Tropical cyclones 68 Keeling Curve
3 Bomb cyclones 69 Breathelife Campaign
4 Azores High 70 Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS
5 Vermiculture 71 Green Methanol
6 Derecho 72 Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme
7 Cloud Burst 73 Mission Integrated Bio-refineries
8 Role of plate tectonics in carbon budget 74 Indoor pollution
9 SW Monsoon vs NE Monsoon 75 Arctic Report Card 2022
10 Twin tropical cyclones 76 Hydrogen Valley Platform
11 Atmospheric river and “True Pineapple Express” 77 Coral reefs
12 Aravalli range states 78 Fir for 55 in 2030 package
13 Cold deserts in India 79 Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
14 Polavaram Irrigation Project 80 Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF)
15 Multi-country Mountain Flagship and Atlyn Dala 81 Major Economies Forum (MEF)
Conservation Initiative 82 Carbon trading
16 Pranhita, Sukapaika, Kameng and Kushiyara river 83 Climate tipping points
17 Lake Manchar and Lake Tanganyika 84 Climate and Development: An Agenda for Action
18 Lithium reserves in India 85 Global Offshore Wind Alliance
19 Satkosia Gorge, Ansupa lake, Hirakud reservoir and 86 Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)
Tampara lake 87 Biological Diversity Act, 2002
20 Devika River 88 Chipko movement
21 Prasanth Hills 89 Compensatory Afforestation
22 Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture (KJWA) 90 Leaders in Climate Change Management (LCCM)
23 Black or regur soil 91 United Nations Global Commission on Adaptation
24 Podu cultivation (GCA)
25 Soliga tribal community 92 Indian Antarctic Act 2022
26 Bhil tribe 93 National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
27 Tribal communities 94 Air Quality Database
28 Kashmir Karewas 95 SWAS, SAFAL and STAR
29 Direct-seeded rice (DSR) 96 Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022
30 SRI – System of Rice Intensification 97 Arth Ganga
31 2023 – International Year of Millets 98 Ban on select single-use plastic items
32 Saffron Bowl project 99 Bharat Tap
33 Red mud 100 Amendment to Wildlife (Protection) Amendment
34 Indian Seed Vault Act,1972
35 Black sea ports 101 Capital Subsidy for Acquisition of Plant and
36 Banni grasslands Machinery or CSAPM scheme
37 Singalila National Park 102 Sindhuja – 1
38 Albino Fawn and Katarniya Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary 103 Coal gastification
Katarniya Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary 104 Blue Flag certification
39 Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) 105 Torrefaction
40 Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve 106 United Nations Convention on Laws of the Sea
41 Karakoram (NubraShyok) WLS (UNCLOS) of 1982
42 Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary 107 High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People
43 Tal Chhapar Blackbuck Sanctuary 108 Breakthrough Agenda
44 Shivalik Elephant Reserve 109 Seoul Declaration
45 Mawmluh Cave or Krem Mawmluh 110 Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint
46 Tunnels in News 112 World Wildlife Day, CITES andWildlife Crime Control
47 Iberian Peninsula Bureau (WCCB)
48 Doomsday glacier cracks 113 ‘In Our LiFEtime’ campaign
49 Ramsar wetlands – New wetlands added 114 Stockholm Conference
50 Silent valley 115 Lisbon Declaration
51 Machchhu River, Pamban Bridge and Yankti Kuti 116 Mission Innovation (MI)
valley 117 Hydrogen Valley Platform
52 Mekedatu dam 118 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)
53 Lake Tanganyika 119 International Solar Alliance (ISA) approved the ‘Solar
54 Bering Strait and Formosa Strait Facility’
55 Mei Yu Front 120 Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)
56 Etalin Hydroelectric Project (HEP) 121 South Asia Group for Energy (SAGE)
57 Pangong Tso Lake 122 UN-Water and IGRAC
58 Falkland Islands 123 Conference of the Parties (COP15) of United Nations
Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
59 Pensilungpa Glacier`
124 Abijdan Declaration and Sahel Sourcing Challenge
60 India's Desert National Park
125 Global Plastics Outlook: Policy Scenarios to 2060
61 Critical Tiger Habitat
126 Benefit-sharing fund
62 Nitrogen fixation
127 Organic solar cells (OSCs)
63 Deep ecologism
128 Landslides
64 Methane
129 Headquarter Agreement
GEOGRAPHY/ENVIRONMENT/DISASTER MANAGEMENT
1 NASA’s Earth EMIT is a NASA mission that maps mineral composition of arid dust source regions
Surface using imaging spectroscopy.
Mineral Dust
Source It also identifies high-rate methane emitters and has found over 50 such emitters
Investigation in central Asia, west Asia, and southwestern United States.
(EMIT)
Mission
2 Tropical Tropical cyclones are violent storms formed over warm equatorial ocean waters,
cyclones requiring high temperature (27+ C), Coriolis force and low-pressure area.
Cyclone Asani, named by Sri Lanka, intensified into a severe storm over southeast
Bay of Bengal.
3 Bomb cyclones Bomb cyclones occur when a low-pressure system experiences a sudden and sharp
drop in atmospheric pressure, accompanied by strong winds and severe weather.
They are common in the mid-latitudes, like the eastern US, Europe, and Asia,
during winter months but can occur in other seasons too.
Bomb cyclones don't happen in tropical latitudes as the Inter-Tropical Convergence
Zone is rare there.
4 Azores High Azores High is a subtropical high-pressure system over the eastern subtropical
North Atlantic and western Europe in winter, formed when descending dry air
coincides with the Hadley circulation.
It causes anticyclonic winds in the subtropical North Atlantic.
A new study found an unusually large Azores High leading to drought conditions in
the western Mediterranean and Iberian Peninsula.
5 Vermiculture Vermiculite is a micaceous mineral, yellowish brown in colour, used for insulation
and vermiculite production.
It's also a soil conditioner and growing medium in agriculture.
It's found in Tirupattur district, Tamil Nadu, and Buxwaha, Chhatarpur district,
Madhya Pradesh, which is home to Asia's most precious diamond reserves, with
about 34.20 million carats embedded in 53.70 million tonnes of kimberlite, and has
dry deciduous forest with teak, salai, and khair trees.
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6 Derecho Derecho is a long-lasting, straight-line windstorm that occurs with rapidly moving
showers or thunderstorms during summertime.
It forms when non-rotating thunderstorm winds have wind gusts of at least 93 km/h.
7 Cloud Burst Cloudbursts are intense, localised rainfall events causing destruction, especially in
hilly areas.
Rainfall of 10 cm or more in an hour over a 10 km x 10 km area is classified as a
cloudburst.
Cloud Condensation Nuclei (CCN), tiny particles on which water droplets condense,
have been linked to forest fire events. They can activate and grow into cloud droplets
in the presence of supersaturation.
The reasons for cloudbursts in Himalayan states are local topology, wind systems, and
temperature gradients between lower and upper atmosphere.
8 Role of plate
tectonics in
carbon budget
9 SW Monsoon
vs NE
Monsoon
10 Twin tropical Two tropical cyclones, Cyclone Asani and Cyclone Karim, were active
cyclones simultaneously in May 2022.
They were twin cyclones spinning in opposite directions due to the Coriolis effect.
The formation of twin tropical cyclones is caused by equatorial Rossby waves, which
are massive waves in the ocean with wavelengths of about 4,000-5,000 kilometers.
11 Atmospheric Atmospheric rivers transport water vapor outside the tropics and are like rivers in
river and the sky.
“True Recently, the “True Pineapple Express” a series of atmospheric rivers, hit California
Pineapple and the West Coast.
Express” It occurs when moisture from the Caribbean interacts with land and can cause
abundant precipitation.
The location matters, as the tail end must start near Hawaii and stretch continuously
to the U.S. West Coast.
12 Aravalli range The Aravalli range is a 670 km long mountain range in Northern-Western India,
states starting near Delhi and ending in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
It passes through southern Haryana and Rajasthan and has the highest peak at Guru
Shikhar on Mount Abu, with a height of 1,722 m.
The range is considered to be the oldest geological feature on Earth, originating in
the Proterozoic era.
13 Cold deserts in The Cold Desert Cultural Landscape of India is a region in the Himalayas, stretching
India from Ladakh to Kinnaur.
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It has a Cold Desert biome with harsh conditions due to its location on the leeward
side of the Himalayas and its high elevation.
The climate shows a huge seasonal variation, with short, dry summers and long,
freezing winters. Blizzards, snowstorms and avalanches are common.
14 Polavaram Multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari River in the Eluru District and East
Irrigation Godavari District in Andhra Pradesh.
Project The project has been accorded National project status.
15 Multi-country Multi-country Mountain Flagship: Protects mountain landscapes in Kyrgyzstan,
Mountain Rwanda, Serbia and Uganda, and conserves imperiled species including mountain
Flagship and gorillas and snow leopards.
Atlyn Dala Atlyn Dala Conservation Initiative: Aims to conserve and restore Kazakhstan’s
Conservation steppe, semi-desert and desert ecosystems across the historical range of the Saiga
Initiative antelope.
16 Pranhita, Pranhita River: Largest tributary of the Godavari, flows through Pranahita Wildlife
Sukapaika, Sanctuary, along the border of Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra and Adilabad
Kameng and district in Telangana.
Kushiyara Tributaries include Mamda, Nagul vagu, Wil Vagu, Pedda Vagu, Madharam,
river Bamar, Dongri, Patra.
Sukapaika River: Distributary of Mahanadi river in Odisha, branches from
Mahanadi at Ayatpur village in Cuttack district. NGT directed Odisha government to
work on its revival plan.
Kameng River: Major tributary of Brahmaputra river in Arunachal Pradesh, source
is a glacial lake near Nyegi Kangsang. Remains black, muddy and unsuitable for use.
Kushiyara River: Distributary of Barak river, originates in Nagaland and forms on
India-Bangladesh border. Picks up tributaries from Manipur, Mizoram and Assam.
17 Lake Manchar Manchar is a vast natural depression.
and Lake It is surrounded by Khirthar Range hills in the West, the Lakki hills in the East and
Tanganyika a flood embankment in the Northeast.
It is Pakistan's biggest freshwater lake.
18 Lithium The Geological Survey of India found 5.9 million tonnes of Lithium inferred resources
reserves in in Salal-Haimana area of Reasi District in Jammu & Kashmir.
India India has 51 mineral blocks, including 5 for gold and others for commodities like
potash and base metals.
Gold ore (primary) is mainly in Bihar (44%), followed by Rajasthan (25%), Karnataka
(21%), West Bengal (3%), Andhra Pradesh (3%), and Jharkhand (2%).
19 Satkosia Satkosia Gorge: Natural wetland in Odisha. Part of Satkosia Tiger Reserve along with
Gorge, Ansupa Baisipalli sanctuary.
lake, Hirakud Ansupa Lake: Oxbow lake formed by River Mahanadi. Largest freshwater lake in
reservoir and Odisha.
Tampara lake Hirakud Reservoir: Largest earthen dam built on Mahanadi river in Odisha. Started
operating in 1957.
Tampara Lake: Freshwater lake on the right bank of the Rushikulya River in Ganjam
district of Odisha.
20 Devika River Devika River, known as sister of Ganga, originates near Suddha Mahadev Temple
in Udhampur, Jammu and merges with Tawi River at Venisung.
Tawi is a major left-bank tributary of Chenab. Devika Rejuvenation Project was
launched in J&K in 2019.
21 Prasanth Hills The highest mountain in Jharkhand.
It is an important Jain pilgrimage site known as Sammed Sikhar.
According to Jain tradition, it is named after the 23rd Tirthankara, Parasnath.
Santhal community calls it Marang Buru.
Conflict between Central and Jharkhand government over its maintenance and
classification.
22 Koronivia The Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture (KJWA) is a UNFCCC decision focusing
Joint Work on on agriculture and food security.
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24 Podu Telangana government in Oct 2021 decided to relocate landless, non-tribal farmers
cultivation engaged in Podu cultivation to peripheral areas to fight deforestation.
Podu is a form of slash-and-burn shifting agriculture, used on hill-slopes of Andhra
Pradesh, similar to jhum method in NE India and bewar system in Madhya
Pradesh.
25 Soliga tribal The Soliga tribal community of Karnataka, living near Biligiri Rangana Hills and
community Male Mahadeshwara in Chamarajnagar district, became the first to get their forest
rights recognised in a tiger reserve in India.
They are also known as "children of bamboo."
26 Bhil tribe The Bhil tribe is spread across India from Gujarat to Tripura. They are known as
"Dhanush Purush" due to their ability to learn archery. The Bhilala subdivision is
known for Pithora painting and their traditional dance is Ghoomar.
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32 Saffron Bowl The Saffron Bowl project by NECTAR, an autonomous body under DST, has
project identified locations in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya for saffron cultivation.
India produces only 6-7 tonnes of saffron, while the demand is for 100 tonnes.
Saffron is a spice derived from the dried stigmas of a plant and has medicinal
properties.
It was introduced in Kashmir in the 1st century BCE and is referred to as 'bahukam'
in ancient Sanskrit literature.
Kashmir saffron has a GI tag and is cultivated in the Karewas of Jammu and Kashmir.
33 Red mud Red Mud is a byproduct of alumina production from bauxite using the Bayer
process.
It is highly alkaline and can leach heavy elements, making it toxic.
Nearly 1 to 1.5 tonnes of Red Mud is produced for each tonne of alumina.
However, it can be used to make X-ray shielding tiles due to its high Fe2O3 content.
Other applications of Red Mud include cement production, bricks, and iron ore.
However, its use is limited due to high costs, low public acceptance, environmental
issues, and a limited market.
34 Indian Seed Indian Seed Vault is the second largest seed bank in the world, located in a secure
Vault location at high-altitude mountain pass on Chang La in Ladakh. It houses over
10,000 seeds and 200 plant species.
35 Black sea ports
36 Banni Banni Grasslands, covering 45% of pastures in Gujarat, are home to around 40,000
grasslands people in 48 villages and 19 panchayats.
This region lies between the Kutch mainland and the Great Rann salt marsh,
featuring two ecosystems - wetlands and grasslands.
Banni buffalo breed and pasture grass species are both indigenous to this region, and
they can tolerate harsh weather conditions and water scarcity.
The grasses contain up to 5% crude protein and 40% fiber, and the region is home to
192 plant species, 262 bird species, and various mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The Maldhari community lives here and manages the grasslands traditionally
through a system of rotational grazing.
In 1955, the Banni grassland became a reserve forest, and in 2019, the tribunal
demarcated its boundaries and restricted non-forest activities.
Recently, the NGT upheld the rights of pastoralists to conserve community forests in
the Banni grasslands under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
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37 Singalila Singalila National Park in Darjeeling district of West Bengal is home to small
National Park mammals such as red pandas, leopard cats, barking deer, yellow-throated
martens, wild boars, pangolins, and pikas.
38 Albino Fawn The Katarniya Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh is home
and Katarniya to endangered species such as gharials, tigers, rhinos, Gangetic dolphins, swamp deer,
Ghat Wildlife hispid hares, Bengal floricans, and white-backed and long-billed vultures.
Sanctuary Recently, an albino fawn, which has partial or complete loss of pigmentation due to
Katarniya mutated genes from both parents impacting the production of melanin, was spotted in
Ghat Wildlife the sanctuary.
Sanctuary Albino animals face issues such as vulnerability to predators due to a lack of
camouflage ability and difficulties with mating.
39 Great Located in Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh
Himalayan 2014 – GHNP added to UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.
National Park Prominent fauna: Blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr,
(GHNP) and musk deer.
40 Ramgarh Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve is Rajasthan's 4th tiger reserve located in Bundi,
Vishdhari Bhilwara, and Kota districts.
Tiger Reserve It serves as a corridor between Ranthambore and Mukundra reserves, and is
crossed by the Mez tributary of the Chambal River.
41 Karakoram Karakoram (NubraShyok) WLS is located in Leh district, Ladakh and is
(NubraShyok) surrounded by China and Pakistan.
WLS It is bordered by Hemis NP to the north, Deosai NP to the east, and Changthang
WLS to the northeast.
Diskit community is found within the sanctuary and Kargil is situated west of it in
the Suru River Valley.
42 Sepahijala Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bishalgarh, Tripura and features an
Wildlife artificial lake, botanical and zoological gardens within a woodland area.
Sanctuary
43 Tal Chhapar Tal Chhapar Blackbuck Sanctuary, situated in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan and part
Blackbuck of Shekhawati region, is the only Indian sanctuary with a good number of blackbucks.
Sanctuary It is a tree-less, flat saline land with grassland forest featuring "Mothiya" or pearl
grass.
44 Shivalik Location: Uttarakhand
Elephant Falls mostly inside protected areas of Rajaji National Park, Corbett Tiger Reserve,
Reserve Nandaur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
45 Mawmluh Mawmluh Cave or Krem Mawmluh is the fourth longest cave in the Indian
Cave or Krem subcontinent located in Sohra or Cherrapunji of the East Khasi Hills District of
Mawmluh Meghalaya.
The cave has impressive stalagmite formations and is from the Meghalayan Age.
It's listed among the 'First 100 IUGS Geological Sites' globally and has a deep pool
formed by five rivers passing through it.
46 Tunnels in Nechiph tunnel: BRO conducts final blast of Nechiphu tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.
News Ramban tunnel: Govt fines Ramban Tunnel contractor Rs 8.5 cr for collapse that
killed 10.
Ramban Tunnel is on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.
Banihal Qazigund road tunnel: Key development initiative in J&K. Twin-tube
tunnel – one for each direction of travel. Establish an all-weather connection between
Jammu and Kashmir
Atal tunnel:Atal Tunnel has officially been certified by World Book of Records, as
the ‘World’s Longest Highway Tunnel above 10,000 Feet’.
Connect Manali to the Lahaul - Spiti Valley.
Runs under the ‘Rohtang Pass’.
47 Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe.
Peninsula Occupied by Spain and Portugal.
Its name derives from its ancient inhabitants whom the Greeks called Iberians.
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48 Doomsday
glacier cracks
50 Silent valley Silent Valley National Park is situated in the Nilgiri hills of Kerala, surrounded by
Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary, New Amarambalam Reserved Forest,
Nedumkayam Rainforest, Attappadi Reserved Forest, and Mukurthi National
Park. Mukurthi peak and Anginda peak are nearby.
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51 Machchhu Machchhu river originates in Madla hills, Surendranagar district, Gujarat, and
River, Pamban ends in the Rann of Kutch.
Bridge and Its tributaries are Beti, Asoi, Jamburi, Benia, Machchhori, and Maha. A recent
Yankti Kuti suspension bridge collapse in Morbi district killed nearly 135 people.
valley Pamban Bridge is India's first vertical lift railway sea bridge, connecting mainland
Tamil Nadu with Rameswaram Island.
Yankti Kuti valley is located in the eastern part of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand.
The Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology has reported the oldest glacial advance
during 52 Kilo years from the Central Himalaya for the first time.
52 Mekedatu dam Karnataka plans to build the Mekedatu dam to meet Bengaluru's drinking water
requirements, but Tamil Nadu opposes it.
Mekedatu is located in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, three km downstream from
the Arkavathy-Cauvery river confluence called Sangama.
The sanctuary is home to the grizzled giant squirrel, Deccan Mahsheer, and the
oriental small-clawed otter, among other species classified as near-threatened or
vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
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59 Pensilungpa According to study by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), the
Glacier Pensilungpa Glacier located in Ladakh’s Zanskar Valley is retreating due to increase
in temperature and decrease in precipitation during winters.
60 India's Desert Located in Rajasthan, India, near Jaisalmer and Barmer, Desert National Park is a
National Park vast reserve spanning 3162 km².
It's a bird enthusiast's paradise with numerous eagle, harrier, falcon, buzzard,
kestrel, and vulture sightings.
The area is home to the great Indian bustard, an endangered bird species found in
significant numbers.
Additionally, the park boasts 60 million-year-old dinosaur fossils.
61 Critical Tiger Critical Tiger Habitat is a demarcated area in National Parks/Sanctuaries for tiger
Habitat conservation.
It's also called Core areas of tiger reserves, notified by State govt under Wildlife
Protection Act.
Rights of forest dwellers shouldn't be affected. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger
Reserve is India's largest CTH.
62 Nitrogen Nitrogen fixation is the process of combining free nitrogen (N2) with other elements
fixation to form more-reactive nitrogen compounds.
This occurs naturally or industrially.
Legumes, such as clover and soybeans, contain symbiotic bacteria in their roots
called Rhizobia that produce nitrogen compounds for plant growth.
Fixed nitrogen is released into the soil when the plant dies, fertilizing the soil and
making it available to other plants.
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63 Deep ecologism
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It has various applications, including as a material for the chemical industry, for storing
renewable electricity, and as a transportation fuel or substitute fuel for maritime
applications.
72 Ethanol The Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme (EBP) promotes blending of ethanol with
Blended Petrol motor fuel to reduce pollution, conserve foreign exchange, and increase value addition
Programme in the sugar industry.
Ethanol is produced mainly from molasses, a by-product of the sugar industry.
Indian government has increased the blending target from 5% to 10%, and Public
Sector Oil Marketing Companies have achieved over 10% blending in the 2021-22
Ethanol Supply Year.
The National Policy on Biofuels was amended to advance the target of 20% ethanol
blending in petrol to the Ethanol Supply Year 2025-26 from 2030.
73 Mission Mission Integrated Bio-refineries is a joint initiative between India and the
Integrated Bio- Netherlands, with Brazil and Canada as core members, and the European
refineries Commission and the United Kingdom as supporting members.
The mission aims to promote "Clean Energy" initiatives in Public-Private Partnership
mode and advance sustainable biorefining pathways and technologies while de-risking
new and emerging technology.
The Mission is a part of Mission Innovation, which also includes clean hydrogen,
green power systems, net-zero shipping, carbon dioxide removal, and urban
transitions.
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74 Indoor
pollution
75 Arctic Report NOAA's peer-reviewed report on the Arctic highlights that it is warming more than
Card 2022 twice as fast as the rest of the globe, and persistent summer sea ice is present due to
cooler surface waters and north winds in the Chukchi Sea.
76 Hydrogen The Hydrogen Valley Platform is a global initiative to optimize hydrogen demand and
Valley supply through onsite generation and utilization.
Platform It's a global information sharing platform that seeks to create an integrated hydrogen
ecosystem by covering production, storage, distribution, and end-use.
Its mission is to become the platform for all information on large-scale hydrogen
flagship projects (Hydrogen Valleys – H2Vs).
India is a participant in this platform.
77 Coral reefs Coral reefs:
Big limestone structures built by thousands of tiny coral creatures called polyps.
Belong in tropical areas just like pina coladas.
Main cause of coral bleaching events: Increased ocean temperature caused by
climate change.
Importance of Coral reefs: Provides Coastal defence
Flood protection: It protect coastal communities from storm surges and waves.
Reduces coastal flooding and erosion as Coral reefs act like low-crested breakwaters
and absorb 97% of wave energy.
Coral reefs cover less than 0.5% of the earth’s surface, but home to about 25% of all
marine species.
Provides planetary resilience as a vast resource of potential scientific discoveries.
Biodiverse hotspots in barren ocean basins
Provides navigation waypoints for critters on the go
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industries, and agriculture. Challenges include the high cost and low demand for
recycled CO2.
87 Biological The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 was enacted to preserve India's biological diversity
Diversity Act, and ensure equitable sharing of benefits from traditional biological resources and
2002 knowledge.
The Act established the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) and State Biodiversity
Authorities (SBAs) to implement its provisions.
The Act is in line with India's obligations under the Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD).
88 Chipko The Chipko Movement was a nonviolent social and ecological movement in the 1970s
movement by rural villagers, especially women, in India, aimed at protecting trees and forests
scheduled for government-backed logging.
It originated in Uttarakhand in 1973 and quickly spread throughout the Indian
Himalayas.
89 Compensatory Compensatory Afforestation is mandatory afforestation on at least an equal area of
Afforestation land whenever forest lands are diverted for non-forest purposes.
It is mandated by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act of 2016.
The act ensures that newer parcels of land are earmarked for developing them as
forests, and project developers must fund the entire afforestation activity on these new
lands.
Money collected through the Compensatory Afforestation Fund can only be spent on
increasing or improving the quality of forest cover in the country.
A Special Fund is created at the Central and state levels, where the money is
deposited first and then disbursed to states.
The project developers must pay for the Net Present Value (NPV) of the forests being
cleared based on a calculation decided by an expert committee.
90 Leaders in It is jointly announced by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and
Climate World Resource Institute (WRI).
Change Objective: To Build capacity among urban professionals to lead climate action.
Management First delivery partner of LCCM program: Administrative Training Institute (ATI),
(LCCM) Mysuru
91 United Nations It was established by Netherlands and the leaders of 22 other convening countries
Global including India.
Commission on Mandate:To accelerate adaptation by elevating the political visibility of adaptation
Adaptation and focusing on concrete solutions.
(GCA)
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92 Indian Indian Antarctic Act 2022 creates regulatory framework for India's activities in
Antarctic Act Antarctica
2022 It grants jurisdiction to Indian courts for crimes by Indian citizens in Antarctica
It aims to manage tourism and sustainable fisheries in Antarctica
It establishes Indian Antarctic Authority (IAA) under Earth Sciences Ministry
India has 2 research stations in Antarctica
Antarctic Treaty
Antarctic Treaty signed in 1959 by 12 countries to promote scientific cooperation and
demilitarize Antarctica
India became a member in 1983
Convention on Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources signed in 1980
and India ratified in 1985
Madrid Protocol designates Antarctica as natural reserve for peace and science
93 National Clean NCAP launched in 2019, Aims to prevent, control, and abate air pollution in India
Air Initial target of 20-30% reduction in particulate matter concentration by 2024
Programme New target of 40% reduction in particulate matter concentration in cities under
(NCAP) NCAP by 2026
Base year for NCAP is 2017
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change will launch Swachh Vayu
Sarvekshan under NCAP.
94 Air Quality WHO releases new guidelines for air quality levels
Database Guidelines cover 6 pollutants with strong evidence on health effects from exposure
95 SWAS, SAFAL CSIR developed less polluting firecrackers: SWAS, SAFAL, and STAR.
and STAR SWAS eliminates usage of KNO3 and S, reduces particulate matter (30-35%), SO2,
and NOx.
STAR eliminates usage of KNO3 and S, reduces particulate matter (35-40%), SO2,
and NOx.
SAFAL has minimal usage of aluminum, reduces particulate matter (35-40%)
compared to commercial crackers.
All three types have matching sound intensity with commercial crackers (105-110
dBA for SWAS and STAR, 110-115 dBA for SAFAL).
96 Battery Waste Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 notified by MoEFCC for environmentally
Management sound management of waste batteries.
Rules, 2022 Rules cover all types of batteries, including EV, portable, automotive, and industrial
batteries.
Based on the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and polluter
pays principle.
Environmental compensation fund to be utilized for collection, refurbishing, or
recycling of uncollected and non-recycled waste batteries.
97 Arth Ganga Arth Ganga conceptualized in 2019 during National Ganga Council meeting.
Objective: Contribute about 3% to GDP from Ganga Basin.
Jalaj is a new initiative under Arth Ganga launched under NMCG.
Aims to create livelihood opportunities for people living along the banks of river
Ganga and its tributaries.
Launched at 26 locations on Ganga basin main stem states.
98 Ban on select India banned 21 single-use plastic items from July 1, 2022, including earbuds, plates,
single-use cups, spoons, straws, and bags.
plastic items It allows sales of items sold in multi-layered packaging and plastic bottles.
The plastic carry bag thickness limit will increase to 120 microns from 75 microns by
December 31, 2022.
99 Bharat Tap Bharat Tap: Reduces water consumption by providing low-flow sanitary-ware.
National Water Awards: Sensitizes public about water importance and encourages
best practices.
JALDOOT App: Identifies ground water level in selected villages with help of Gram
Rojgar Sahayak.
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Aims to address global forest-related issues like climate change, biodiversity loss and
desertification.
Seeks solutions through forests.
Calls for tripling investments for restoring degraded land by 2030.
110 Global Alliance Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint led by WHO and UNEP.
to Eliminate Aim to prevent children's exposure to lead from paints and minimize occupational
Lead Paint exposure.
Lead pollution
Lead has negative effects on children's neurological development.
Other sources: Adulterated spices, cookware, paint, traditional medicines, and
batteries.
India limits lead content in paints to 90 parts per million.
112 World Wildlife World Wildlife Day: observed on March 3, theme for 2023 is ‘Partnerships for
Day, CITES Wildlife Conservation’
andWildlife CITES: signed in 1973, international agreement to ensure that trade in wild animals
Crime Control and plants does not threaten their survival
Bureau Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB): statutory body under Ministry of
(WCCB) Environment, Forests and Climate Change, combats organised wildlife crime in India,
assists customs authorities in inspection of consignments
113 ‘In Our 'In Our LiFEtime' campaign launched by NMNH and UNDP.
LiFEtime’ Aim: To encourage youth aged 18-23 to promote sustainable lifestyles.
campaign Youth can submit their climate actions for sustainable and scalable lifestyles.
Actions can be shared globally.
114 Stockholm Stockholm Conference was the first major UN conference on international
Conference environmental issues in 1972.
Its objective was to coordinate global efforts to promote sustainability and safeguard
the natural environment.
Dimensions of the Conference include countries agreeing not to harm each other’s
environment, action plan to study environmental threats, and establishment of UNEP.
Recently, Stockholm+50 meeting was held to commemorate 50 years since the
conference.
Stockholm+50 theme: "A healthy planet for the prosperity of all — our responsibility,
our opportunity."
Agenda of Stockholm+50 includes sharing experiences to protect the planet and
sustainable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
115 Lisbon Lisbon Declaration & UN Ocean Conference (UNOC)
Declaration 'Our Ocean, Our Future: call for action' launched at 2nd UNOC in Lisbon.
UNOC co-hosted by Kenya and Portugal.
Key commitments: carbon neutrality by 2040, protect 30% of national maritime zones
by 2030, reduce plastic pollution, increase renewable energy use, allocate funds for
research on ocean acidification and climate resilience.
116 Mission MI is a global initiative to promote clean energy.
Innovation The objective is to make clean energy affordable, attractive and accessible to all this
(MI) decade.
India is a founding member of MI, which currently consists of 22 countries and the
EU.
Mission 1.0 was launched in 2015 alongside the Paris Agreement, while Mission
Innovation 2.0 was launched in 2021.
MI has seven missions, including carbon dioxide removal, zero-emission shipping,
and clean hydrogen, among others.
117 Hydrogen Hydrogen Valley Platform is a global info-sharing platform.
Valley Created by Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking for Mission Innovation IC8
Platform Member States.
Its mission is to support global collaboration and sharing of information on large-scale
hydrogen flagship projects called Hydrogen Valleys (H2Vs).
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118 International ICAO is set up under 'Chicago Convention' for civil aviation
Civil Aviation Its objective is to reduce carbon emissions in aviation sector
Organisation Headquarters in Montreal, Quebec, Canada
(ICAO) Funded and directed by 193 national governments.
119 International ISA approved 'Solar Facility' to stimulate solar investments.
Solar Alliance It includes Solar Payment Guarantee Fund and Solar Insurance Fund.
(ISA) Objective: attract private capital to underserved markets in Africa.
approved the
‘Solar Facility’
120 Science Based Partnership between CDP, UN Global Compact, WRI and WWF
Targets Allows private organizations to set science-based emissions reduction targets
initiative Lead partner of Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign
(SBTi)
121 South Asia SAGE: Partnership between USAID and MNRE
Group for Technology transfer from US national laboratories to Indian technical institutions for
Energy clean energy development
(SAGE) Aims to be a powerhouse of science, engineering, and technology for India and South
Asia region
122 UN-Water and UN-Water and IGRAC:
IGRAC a) UN-Water is a UN coordination mechanism for freshwater and sanitation.
b) IGRAC is a UNESCO Centre under WMO and supported by Netherlands.
c) IGRAC's flagship product is Global Groundwater Information System (GGIS).
d) UN Water Summit on Groundwater 2022 was organized by UN-Water, UNESCO
and IGRAC in Paris.
123 Conference of UNCCD's Conference of the Parties (COP) meets biennially since 2001
the Parties COP-14 hosted by India in 2019, committed to restoring 26 million hectares of
(COP15) of degraded land by 2030
United Nations COP-14 theme: 'Restore land, Sustain future'
Convention to COP-15 held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Combat COP-15 theme: 'Land. Life.Legacy: From scarcity to prosperity'
Desertification
(UNCCD)
124 Abijdan Abidjan Call aims to boost long-term environmental sustainability and achieve gender
Declaration equality for successful land restoration.
and Sahel Abidjan Declaration is related to achieving gender equality for successful land
Sourcing restoration.
Challenge Sahel Sourcing Challenge enables GGW communities to monitor progress, create
jobs, and commercialize produce.
Great Green Wall (GGW) is an African-led movement to grow an 8,000 km belt of
trees across Africa.
125 Global Plastics OECD released a report called "Global Plastics Outlook: Policy Scenarios to 2060".
Outlook: Report projects that plastic use and waste will triple globally by 2060 due to economic
Policy and population growth.
Scenarios to Largest increase in emerging economies in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.
2060 Impacts from plastic lifecycle are projected to more than double GHG emissions,
ozone formation, acidification, and human toxicity.
126 Benefit- Benefit-sharing Fund established in 2009 by the International Treaty's Governing
sharing fund Body.
Highest organ of International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and
Agriculture (ITPGRFA).
Supports projects that leverage plant genetic resources to find solutions for
food/nutrition insecurity, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
127 Organic solar Organic solar cells (OSCs) convert steel roofs into energy-producing devices.
cells (OSCs) OSCs are emerging photovoltaic (PV) technologies with organic polymer material as
the light-absorbing layer.
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OSCs are third-generation solar cells and offer benefits such as lightweight, large
coverage area, low manufacturing costs, and potential for storing larger amounts of
solar energy.
128 Landslides Landslides are sudden movements of rock, boulders, earth or debris down a slope.
They are natural disasters occurring mainly in mountainous terrains.
Natural causes of landslides include heavy rainfall, earthquakes, snowmelting, and
flooding, while anthropogenic causes include excavation, cutting of hills and trees,
excessive infrastructure development, and overgrazing.
Factors that influence landslides include lithology, geological structures, land use and
land cover, and weathering of rocks.
India is among the top five landslide-prone countries globally, with the Himalayas
and Western Ghats being highly vulnerable.
Rudraprayag in Uttarakhand has the highest landslide density in the country.
The Landslide Atlas of India, released by ISRO, identified that 12.6% of the
country's geographical land area is prone to landslides.
129 Headquarter India signed HQA with CDRI to grant it the status of an independent and
Agreement international legal entity, with privileges and immunities necessary for its good
functioning.
130 Turkey and Turkey is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the Anatolian Plate bordering
earthquake two major faults.
The North Anatolian fault stretches from Istanbul to north-eastern Turkey and has
caused past earthquakes.
The Main Central Thrust (MCT) is a geological fault in the Himalayas caused by
the collision of Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates.
The MCT spans over 2200 km and is prone to frequent seismic activity.
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131 Global Global Peatlands Initiative aims to conserve peatlands to avoid carbon release
Peatlands Headed by United Nations Environment
Initiative Brazzaville Declaration signed in 2018 to protect Cuvette Centrale Region in Congo
Basin
132 Joshimath land Joshimath, Uttarakhand faces land subsidence issue.
subsidence Land subsidence is sinking of ground due to various reasons.
Reasons behind subsidence in Joshimath include unplanned construction, over-
population, obstruction of natural water flow, and hydel power activities.
Causes of land subsidence include natural factors like earthquakes, soil erosion and
compaction, as well as human activities like mining and resource extraction.
133 Dam Safety Dam Safety Act, 2021: regulates surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance
Act, 2021 of specified dams across India.
Applies to dams with height over 15 m or height between 10 m -15 m with specific
design and structural conditions.
National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS) develops policies and recommends
safety standards.
National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) implements NCDA policies and provides
technical assistance to State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs).
Controversy over whether Parliament has jurisdiction to regulate dams on rivers
within states.
Constitution grants states authority over water laws (Entry 17 of State List) and
Parliament over inter-state river valleys if in public interest (Entry 56 of Union List).
134 Coastal Coastal erosion: Long-term removal of sediment and rocks along the coastline due to
Erosion natural forces like waves, tides, currents, wind-driven water etc.
Over a third of India's coastline experienced erosion between 1990-2018.
Four main processes: hydraulic action, abrasion, attrition and compression.
Factors causing coastal erosion:
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1 Spitzer space NASA launched an infrared space telescope in 2003, which operated until January
telescope 30, 2020.
The telescope belongs to the group of space telescopes categorized by major
frequency ranges, specifically the infrared range.
Gamma ray space telescopes: Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope launched
Gamma rays can be generated by supernovae, by NASA in 2008
neutron stars, pulsars and black holes.
Gamma ray bursts, with extremely high energies,
have also been detected. Gamma-Ray Burst Polarimeter (GAP)
launched by JAXA in 2010
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2 SARAS 3 Radio SARAS 3 radio telescope aims to detect faint radio wave signals from the early
Telescope universe when the first stars and galaxies formed.
It was designed and built by Raman Research Institute and deployed in Northern
Karnataka in early 2020.
Recently, astronomers used SARAS 3 data to determine properties of radio luminous
galaxies formed 200 million years after the Big Bang.
3 Astrobee NASA's Astrobee is a free flying robotic system to reduce astronauts' routine tasks.
It can work autonomously or via remote control and includes three cubed shaped
robots, software, and a docking station.
Astrobee was built based on the legacy and lessons learned from the SPERES robots.
It will replace SPERES as the space station's robotic test facility.
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4 LVM3 M2 / The LVM3-M2 mission is a dedicated commercial mission for a foreign customer
OneWeb India-1 OneWeb, through NSIL.
Mission It is the first multi-satellite mission with 36 OneWeb Satellites to the LEO as the
heaviest Payload mass of 5,796 kg. of LVM3 till date.
Salient features of the Mission:
First Commercial Mission of LVM3
First Multi-Satellite mission with 36 OneWeb Satellites onboard
First launch of LVM3 to LEO
First Indian rocket with six ton payload
First NSIL Mission with LVM3
First OneWeb Mission with NSIL/DoS
5 Indian The observatory is situated at 4500 metres above mean sea level atop Mt. Saraswati
Astronomical in the Hanle Valley of Changthang, Ladakh.
Observatory, Its location provides cloudless skies and low atmospheric water vapor, making it ideal
Hanle, Ladakh for optical, infrared, sub-millimeter, and millimeter wavelengths.
The observatory houses a 2-m optical infrared telescope.
6 Gaganyaan Objective: Demonstration of human spaceflight capability by launching crew of 3
Programme members to an orbit of 400 km for a 3 days mission and bring them back safely to
earth, by landing in Indian sea waters.
Expected launch date: 2024
Demonstrator missions: Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT), Pad Abort Test (PAT) and
Test Vehicle (TV) flights.
Launch vehicle: LVM3 rocket – Consist of solid stage, liquid stage and cryogenic
stage
7 Chandrayaan 3 Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-on mission to Chandrayaan-2 to demonstrate safe landing
and roving on the moon's surface.
It consists of a Lander and Rover configuration and will be launched in August
2023 by GSLV MkIII from SDSC, Sriharikota.
The propulsion module has SHAPE payload to study Earth from the lunar orbit.
Lander payloads: ChaSTE for thermal measurement, ILSA for seismic
measurement, and LP for plasma density estimation.
Rover payloads: APXS and LIBS for elemental composition measurement.
8 GSLV Mark III Heavy lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO, carrying capacity 640 tonnes
Can launch satellites into GTO and LEO
Consists of three stages, first stage has solid rocket booster, second stage is liquid,
and third stage is cryogenic
Important launches: CARE, GSAT 19, GSAT 29, Chandrayaan mission, OneWeb
India-1 mission
9 Aditya L1 Indian space mission observing the Sun from a halo orbit around L1.
7 payloads to study photosphere, chromosphere, and corona.
No occultation/eclipses, continuous view of the Sun.
10 Nisar Mission NASA-ISRO SAR mission using dual frequency radar imaging.
Will map entire globe in 12 days.
Helps understand climate change impact on ecosystems, land, and cryosphere.
11 Solar Proton CLASS on-board Chandrayaan-2 detected solar proton events.
Events Increases radiation exposure to humans in space.
12 Artemis Program NASA's plan for a sustainable presence on the Moon as a stepping stone to Mars.
13 VIGIL Mission European Space Agency's mission to monitor and warn of solar storms.
Positioned at L5 for side view of the Sun and observation of solar activity.
14 POEM Platform ISRO launched 'POEM' platform in July 2022 with three Singaporean satellites.
'POEM' utilizes the final stage of PSLV rocket for in-orbit experiments.
PSLV rocket has four stages and the final stage (PS4) becomes space debris.
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37 India's first ever India's first Dark Sky Reserve to be set up in Hanle, Ladakh in the next three months.
Dark sky reserve The area is officially identified as Hanle Dark Sky Reserve covering a 1,073 sq.km
area in Hanle revenue range and the Changthan Wildlife Sanctuary.
Hanle is one of the world’s best sites for astronomical observations due to its
cloudless skies and low atmospheric water vapour.
The Dark Sky Reserve is aimed at protecting the nocturnal environment for scientific,
natural, educational, cultural, heritage, and public enjoyment purposes.
Currently, there are 20 dark sky reserves around the world, with India being the latest
to join the list.
38 Perseverance Perseverance is a NASA mission exploring Mars.
mission Its goals are to search for signs of past microbial life, collect rock and soil samples,
and demonstrate technologies for future human missions.
The mission includes a drill that can collect core samples and set them aside on the
Martian surface.
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Perseverance will also test a method for producing oxygen from the Martian
atmosphere and identify other resources.
The mission aims to identify past environments capable of supporting life and seek
biosignatures in specific rock types.
39 Langya virus Langya virus related to Nipah and Hendra viruses infected at least 35 people in
China.
Symptoms reported mostly mild - fever, fatigue, cough, loss of appetite, muscle
aches, nausea, and headache.
Newly discovered "phylogenetically distinct Henipavirus".
Cedar, Ghanaian bat, and Mojiang viruses not known to cause human disease, but
Hendra and Nipah do.
LayV virus RNA found predominantly in shrews, its possible natural host.
40 Human HPV causes skin or mucous membrane growths (warts)
Papilloma Virus There are over 100 types of HPV
(HPV) Some types cause warts, while others cause cancer
HPV is often sexually transmitted
Vaccines can protect against HPV strains causing genital warts or cervical cancer.
41 Zombie virus French scientists warn of a zombie virus outbreak.
The virus was revived from a 48,500-year-old strain found in permafrost in Russia.
Climate warming is causing the thawing of permafrost, releasing organic matter
and viruses.
Pandoravirus yedoma is the oldest strain found, possessing its own genome.
One-quarter of the Northern hemisphere is underlain by permafrost.
Thawing permafrost releases organic matter, including cellular microbes and viruses
dormant for prehistorical times.
42 Stem cells
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44 Telomere-2- An open, community-based effort to generate the first complete assembly of a human
Telomere (T2T) genome.
project
45 SOVA virus SOVA is a malware that attacks Android banking apps.
It is a banking trojan that steals personal information.
SBI, PNB, and Canara Bank have warned their customers about SOVA.
SOVA captures user credentials when logging into net-banking apps and accessing
bank accounts.
Once installed, SOVA is impossible to uninstall.
46 Alpha Fold An AI system developed by DeepMind that predicts a protein’s 3D structure from
its amino acid sequence.
It regularly achieves accuracy competitive with experiment.
47 FELUDA is a FELUDA is a paper-strip test for detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
paper-strip test It uses CRISPR-Cas technology.
FELUDA stands for FNCAS9 Editor-Limited Uniform Detection Assay.
FnCas9 protein and gRNA are used to recognise viral genes in patient samples.
If the viral gene is present, the gRNA-FnCas9 complex binds to it.
The binding is visualised on a paper strip.
48 e-DNA e-DNA is Environmental DNA.
It is nuclear or mitochondrial DNA released from organisms into the environment.
eDNA sources include secreted feces, mucous, gametes, shed skin, hair, and
carcasses.
eDNA can be detected in cellular or extracellular form.
49 GigaMesh GigaMesh is a multi-beam E-band radio developed by Astrome and supported by
ARTPARK.
It can communicate from one tower to multiple towers simultaneously and deliver
multi GBPS throughput to each tower.
A single GigaMesh device can provide up to forty links with 2+ Gbps capacity up
to a range of ten kilometres.
It is suitable for decongesting dense urban networks and extending rural coverage.
50 Astrome Astrome is a startup expediting the implementation of 5G and rural
telecommunications infrastructure.
ARTPARK is a not-for-profit foundation promoting technology innovations in AI and
Robotics.
51 Perovskite solar Perovskite solar cells are thin-film devices built with layers of materials.
cell They have shown remarkable progress in efficiency, from 3% in 2009 to over 25%
today.
Perovskites can decompose when they react with moisture, oxygen, light, heat, or
voltage.
They are not currently commercially viable due to limited operational lifetimes.
Perovskite compounds have a chemical formula ABX3 with the same crystal
structure as the mineral calcium titanium oxide.
52 Sand Battery A sand battery is a high temperature thermal energy storage.
It uses sand or sand-like materials as its storage medium to store energy as heat.
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Its purpose is to work as a high-power and high-capacity reservoir for excess wind
and solar energy.
The stored heat can be used to heat homes or provide high temperature process heat
to industries.
53 Declaration for "Declaration for the Future of the Internet" is a political declaration signed by the US
the Future of the and 60 other partner countries.
Internet Aim: to establish a code of practice for democratic countries to engage with the web.
India, China, and Russia are not part of this declaration.
54 Budapest Budapest Convention on Cybercrime is the first international treaty focusing on
Convention on cybercrime.
Cybercrime Opened for signatures in 2001, entered into force in 2004.
68 countries, including the United States, have ratified it.
India is not a party due to non-participation in the negotiation and concerns about
cross-border data access provisions.
55 India Stack India Stack is a set of APIs for digital service delivery in India
APIs include Aadhaar authentication, e-KYC, eSign, Digital Locker, UPI and Digital
User Consent
Four technology layers: Presenceless, Paperless, Cashless and Consent
iSPIRT is a pro-bono partner in development and evolution of APIs
Enables presence-less, paperless and cashless service delivery.
56 5G technologies Millimetre wave: Uses frequencies up to 100GHz which come in the range of
millimetre frquencies (30GHz to 300 GHz).
mmWave technology is more susceptible to obstacles and tend to lose energy more
quickly -> To overcome this, small cell stations are needed.
5G New Radio (NR): Uses two frequency ranges – sub-6 GHz frequency bands and
frequency bands in the
mmWave range (24-100GHz).
Massive multi-user MIMO (Multiple input multiple output): -> Need to have
more signal towers per unit.
Beamforming: Laser beam like transmission between entity and user -> Reduced
interference and increased energy efficiency in transmission.
NOMA (Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access): allows multiple signals to use the same
frequency channel thus improving load capacity of every channel.
Mobile Edge Computing (MEC): Brings cloud computing closer to the user
physically.
57 Shadow Brokers Shadow Brokers: Hacker group leaked NSA hacking tools
and Modified Modified Elephant: Hacking group targeted Indian journalists, human rights
Elephant activists, etc.
Used spearphishing to install malware or reveal information
Connected to the arrest of activists in the Bhima Koregaon case.
58 Open-RAN Open-RAN is an initiative of DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India.
(Radio Access It aims to revolutionize digital commerce and promote e-commerce in India.
Network) Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is a non-profit incubated at Quality
Council of India.
ONDC aims to democratize and decentralize eCommerce, promote inclusivity and
access for small and medium enterprises and local businesses, and increase choices
for consumers.
59 Cordyceps Cordyceps militaris is a parasitic fungus with medicinal properties.
militaris Its extracts are used to synthesize Cordy gold nanoparticles (Cor-AuNPs).
Cor-AuNPs can improve drug delivery in the human body.
Wild Cordyceps mushroom is found in the eastern Himalayan belt.
Biosynthesized nanogold particles have potential applications in developing
therapeutic drugs.
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60 Non-Fungible
Tokens (NFT)
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64 ‘Anubis’, A Trojan is a malicious code or software that looks legitimate but can take control of
‘Roaming your device, including smartphones.
Mantis’ and Anubis, Roaming Mantis and Bian Lian: A mobile banking trojan targeting Android
‘Bian Lian’ users since 2017.
65 Facial A technology capable of matching a human face from a digital image or a video frame
recognition against a database of faces.
technology Such a system is typically employed to authenticate users through ID verification
services, and works by pinpointing and measuring facial features from a given image.
66 Biofloc Biofloc technology is a cost-effective aquaculture system.
technology Toxic materials like nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia are converted to proteinaceous feed.
Higher C:N ratio is maintained through carbohydrate source addition.
Dense microorganisms function as a bioreactor and protein food source.
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67 Neutrinos
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72 Carbon dating
73 Cloud seeding
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75 Parboiled rice Parboiled rice is partially precooked in its inedible husk before being processed for
eating.
The three main steps of parboiling are soaking, steaming, and drying.
Parboiling changes the color of rice to a light yellow or amber, and improves the
texture, storage, and health benefits of rice.
Parboiling also improves the nutritional content of rice.
76 Full Market Covaxin and Covishield vaccines granted full market authorization by DCGI in
Authorisation January 2022
Vaccines meet prescribed standards of safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing
quality
Authorization given under the Drugs and Cosmetic Act, 1940 for a new vaccine.
77 International ITER is a collaboration between 35 nations to build the world's largest tokamak, a
Thermonuclear magnetic fusion device.
Experimental ITER Members include China, the EU, India, Japan, Korea, Russia, and the
Reactor (ITER) United States.
First plasma is scheduled for December 2025.
India is responsible for delivering several components of the project.
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79
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80 Wormhole
Wormholes first theorized in 1916 from
Einstein’s General theory of relativity.
They are bridges through space-time connecting
two points, potentially reducing travel time and
distance.
No wormholes have been discovered yet.
ECONOMY
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4 GST Council
5 Sin Goods, Sin Goods: Sin goods are the goods and services that are seen to be socially
Circular Trading detrimental. The government imposes special tax known as sin tax on these goods.
and Input Tax Circular trading: It refers to fraudulently availing input tax credit (ITC) by
Credit traders by issuing of invoices without availing any real goods or service.
Input tax credit: It means that at the time of paying tax on output, one can reduce
tax that has already been paid on inputs and pay balance amount. It can be claimed
only for business purposes
6 Impact of inverted Inverted duty structure leads to revenue outflow and capital shortage for
duty structure business.
It can be corrected by reducing GST on inputs or raising levies on finished
products.
Refund of accumulated input tax credit allowed under Section 54(3)(ii) of CGST
Act and Rule 89(5) of CGST Rules.
Eligibility conditions for refund: higher tax rate on input than output, non-
exempt output supplies, and no specific refund restriction by the Government.
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7 Revenue neutral Revenue-neutral rate is the rate at which income to states and Centre isn't
rate eroded in absence of pre-GST taxes.
India's GST Council has reduced tax rates, resulting in lowering of average rate to
about 11.5% from revenue-neutral rate of 15%.
8 Zero Coupon Government issued non-interest bearing Zero Coupon Recapitalisation Bonds
Recapitalisation worth Rs. 5,500 crore to recapitalise Punjab & Sind Bank.
Bonds Zero Coupon Bonds do not pay interest and trade at deep discounts.
They offer full face value profits at maturity.
Investor's return is indicated by the difference between purchase price and par
value.
9 Financial Services FSIB` grooms top officials of banks via a leadership development programme.
Institutions Bureau FSIB elects CEOs and Directors of public sector banks, insurance companies and
(FSIB) financial institutions.
Set up under the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance.
Other functions include advising on personnel management and promoting
excellence in corporate governance.
10 Marginal cost of MCLR is the marginal cost of funds-based lending rate introduced in 2016, where
fund-based lending banks calculate operating costs as a percentage of marginal cost of funds to decide
rates (MCLR) interest rates for borrowers.
Changes in the RBI's repo rate impact the MCLR. Banks review their MCLR
monthly on a pre-announced date with board approval.
Repo-linked loans, on the other hand, are directly linked to the repo rate and
reviewed periodically.
11 Concept of Credit Credit growth refers to the increase in demand for loans, measured as the annual
Growth change in outstanding loans of banks.
Soundness of banks is measured by their distance to default.
Credit growth is an important indicator of economic activity.
Deposits are a cheap funding source for banks, and banks earn interest income by
lending at higher rates.
High credit growth can be due to financial deepening, normal or excessive
cyclical upturns in investment.
12 Bank runs Bank runs occur when depositors rush to withdraw their savings from a bank.
If many people withdraw simultaneously and the bank's reserves cannot cover all
the withdrawals, it may lead to bankruptcy.
13 Regional Rural RRBs were recommended by the Narasimha Working Group in 1975 and
Banks (RRBs) established under the Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976.
The objective of RRBs is to provide banking and credit facilities in rural and
semi-urban areas.
RRBs offer para-banking facilities such as locker facilities, debit and credit
cards, mobile and internet banking, etc.
RRBs also perform government operations like disbursing MGNREGA wages and
distributing pensions.
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14 Small Finance
Banks vs Payment
Banks
17 National Bank for NaBFID is a development financial institution (DFI) for infrastructure
Financing financing.
Infrastructure and DFIs provide long-term finance for segments of the economy where risks are
Development beyond the acceptable limits of commercial banks and ordinary financial
(NaBFID) institutions.
NaBFID does not accept deposits and sources funds from the market,
government, and multilateral institutions.
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The central government will provide grants worth Rs 5,000 crore to NaBFID
by the end of the first financial year.
The government will also provide guarantee at a concessional rate of up to 0.1%
for borrowing from multilateral institutions, sovereign wealth funds, and other
foreign funds.
18 Liquidity in the Liquidity in the banking system refers to cash readily available for short-term
banking system needs.
RBI's Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) injects or absorbs liquidity in/from
the banking system.
Banking system liquidity is in deficit if net borrower from RBI and in surplus if
net lender to RBI.
Reasons behind liquidity deficit include uptick in bank credit, advance tax
payments, RBI forex market intervention, and slow deposit growth.
On September 20, 2022, the banking system liquidity turned into deficit mode of
Rs 21,873.4 crore, first time since May 2019.
19 Digital lending Digital Lending utilizes technology for decision making, customer acquisition,
disbursement, and recovery of credit.
Lending Service Providers (LSPs) partner with NBFCs who disburse credit to
customers through the LSP's platform, making it a multi-sided platform.
Advantages include lower costs and speedy disbursal.
Issues include reckless lending practices and charging higher interest rates to
spread the risk.
RBI guidelines for digital lenders include:
Loan disbursals and repayments should happen directly between customer and
lender's bank accounts to avoid money laundering.
Customers should have a cooling-off period to opt-out of the loan.
No data should be collected or credit limit increased without borrower's explicit
consent.
All lending, including through merchant platforms, must be reported to credit
information bureaus for transparency.
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20 Nidhi Companies
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25 SEBI Complaints SCORES is a centralized grievance redressal system for the securities market.
Redressal System It is mainly used for complaints against listed companies and registered
(SCORES) intermediaries.
The system was made operational in 2011.
Since 2018, it has been made mandatory for lodging a complaint.
SCORES is a web-based system.
26 Risk-weighted RWA is a method used by lenders to calculate the capital adequacy ratio of a bank.
assets (RWA) Basel III standards require a minimum of 8 percent capital adequacy ratio, while
RBI norms mandate a minimum of 9 percent.
Banks hold or set aside a minimum amount of capital to face the eventuality of a
loan default.
The amount of capital that needs to be set aside is determined by the risk of the
loan turning bad, which is calculated using the RWA method.
Loans backed by collateral carry lower risk and are assigned lower RWAs, while
unsecured loans carry higher risk and are assigned higher RWAs.
27 Wholesale Price
Index (WPI) and
the Consumer
Price Index (CPI)
Reasons for
differences:
Variation in base years
Basket of items and
weights allocated to the
individual items in the
two indices.
Lack of a competitive
integrated market in the
country.
Divergence phase –
Mar 21 to May 22 –
Why?
Unfavourable base
effect
Contribution of services
Convergence phase – Since Jun 22 – Why?
Cooling in inflation of commodities such as crude oil, iron, aluminum etc.
Rise in CPI due to increase in prices of services
28 Monetary policy of RBI's monetary policy aims to maintain price stability while keeping in mind
RBI the objective of growth.
The policy framework was amended in 2016.
The policy rate (repo rate) is set based on an assessment of the current and
evolving macroeconomic situation, and liquidity conditions are modulated to
anchor money market rates around the repo rate.
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Repo rate changes transmit through the money market to influence aggregate
demand, a key determinant of inflation and growth.
RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meets every two months to
reconsider its monetary policy stance.
The stances include: Accommodative stance for cutting policy rate to boost
economic growth, Neutral stance when policy priority is equal to inflation and
growth, Hawkish stance for curbing money supply to keep inflation low and
increase policy rate, and Calibrated Tightening which is a tilt towards rate hike
without necessary policy rate hike at every policy meeting.
29 Priority Sector Priority Sector Lending (PSL) was initiated in 1966 to provide credit to
Lending agriculture and small industries.
RBI formalized the definition of PSL in 1972 during the National Credit Council
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) report.
Nearly 40% of adjusted net bank credit (ANBC) is lent to priority sectors.
Eight sectors are identified under PSL, with agriculture being the largest with
an 18% target for total ANBC, followed by MSMEs with 7.5% priority lending
targets and 10% for weaker sections.
Five other sectors are classified as PS, including housing, export credit,
education, social infrastructure, and renewable energy.
RBI has expanded the scope of PSL to include loans for installation of solar power
plants, setting up Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) plants, and bank finance for
startups up to Rs 50 crore.
30 Core, super core Core inflation: Inflation measure by removing prices of food and fuel to provide
and sticky inflation an idea of how the broader economy is doing.
Super core inflation: Stricter measure of core inflation calculated by removing
gold and silver price inflation from core inflation, done by Nomura Research.
Sticky inflation: Inflation taking longer than expected to fall, as higher food and
fuel prices have seeped into the broader economy and made other things costlier.
31 Impacts of inflation Impact of Inflation
Inflation creates winners and losers in short term it effects everyone if it stays
persistently high.
Impacts of inflation:
Reduction in People’s purchasing power
Reduction in overall demand : Curtailing of non-essential demands.Harms savers
and helps borrowers:
It helps the government meet debt obligations.
It worsens the exchange rate.
32 Shrinkflation Shrink inflation is when a product downsizes its quantity while keeping the price
the same.
For example, reducing the scoops of ice cream in a container or reducing the
number of chips in a packet would count as shrinkflation.
33 Federal Reserve Impacts
and other central Increase in incentives to save and invest
banks around the Check inflationary spiral
world have raised Correction of asset prices
interest rates to Effects opportunity cost in case of fixed-income securities as security prices
curb inflation correct to account for rate increase
34 Cost Inflation CII is notified every year under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Index (CII) Its objective is to match the prices to inflation rate based on the Consumer Price
Index (CPI) for urban areas.
CII is calculated as 75% of the average increase in CPI for the immediate previous
year.
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CII is used to compute long-term capital gains (LTCG) arising from the sale of
capital assets after adjusting for inflation.
35 Standing Deposit SDF is a liquidity absorption mechanism implemented by RBI.
Facility (SDF) It enables RBI to take liquidity
from commercial banks
without collateral or
compensation with government
securities.
SDF is used to transfer liquidity
out of the commercial banking
sector and into the RBI.
Similar to reverse repo, SDF is
used by the central bank to
remove excess liquidity from the
system.
The difference between SDF and
reverse repo is that reverse repo
operations require collateral in
the form of government assets to
borrow money from commercial
banks.
SDF allows banks to store
surplus liquidity with the RBI at
their discretion.
Fixed-rate overnight reverse
repo is no longer the LAF
corridor's floor under SDF.
The reverse repo remains a tool in RBI's toolbox for monetary policy and its use
will be at RBI's discretion for periodically announced objectives.
36 Bancassurance
37 Credit-Deposit CD Ratio measures the amount of money raised by banks through deposits that
(CD) Ratio has been deployed as loans.
Low CD ratio indicates poor credit growth compared to deposit growth,
suggesting banks are not fully utilizing their resources.
High CD ratio indicates strong demand for credit with slower deposit growth and
above a certain level, indicates pressure on resources.
38 Loan waive-off vs Loan waive-off
Loan write-off It is a complete cancellation of a loan account freeing borrower from that
particular debt.
Example: Loan waiver provided by the government to farmers.
Loan write-off
It is the movement of defaulted loan/NPA from assets side and reports it as a loss
by lender.
It is generally done by banks to reduce their NPAs when there are very low chances
of recovery from defaulter.
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It does not take away the bank's right of recovery from the borrower through legal
means.
39 Yield Curve YCC is a central bank's monetary policy tool to control interest rates along
Control (YCC) or some portion of the yield curve.
interest rate caps It targets a longer-term interest rate and adjusts the bond prices to hit that target
by buying or selling as many bonds as necessary.
YCC is different from Quantitative Easing (QE) and short-term interest rate targets
as it focuses on bond prices and provides economic stimulus as short-term rates
near zero.
YCC can prevent recession or lessen its impact.
The Bank of Japan's policy of YCC has led to a further decline in the Japanese
Yen.
40 Payment Payment aggregator framework introduced by RBI in March 2020.
aggregator Only RBI-approved firms can offer payment services to merchants, and must meet
framework minimum net worth requirements and comply with global payment security
standards.
Recently, RBI returned the applications of Paytm and PayU for not meeting
requirements, allowing them to continue as payment aggregators but not onboard
new merchants until they receive approval.
41 Regulation of Payment and Settlement Systems are regulated by RBI under the Payment and
Payment System Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
Payment systems contribute to economic development, financial stability, and
financial inclusion.
Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) is a payment system that uses
Aadhaar biometric authentication.
UIDAI has introduced a new security layer in AePS to prevent fraud by checking
the liveliness of fingerprints.
This security layer helps to prevent the use of fake fingerprints for fraudulent
transactions.
42 Decentralized DeFi stands for decentralized finance, an alternative finance ecosystem based on
finance or DeFi blockchain technology.
It allows consumers to transfer, trade, borrow, and lend cryptocurrency without
relying on traditional financial institutions or regulations.
DeFi aims to use computer code to eliminate the need for trust and middlemen in
financial transactions.
DeFi features a computer-controlled market that automatically executes
transactions, including issuing loans backed by crypto and paying interest on
holdings.
DeFi is governed by a community of users who hold the protocol's tokens and
have the power to make decisions.
DeFi is expected to become independent from its developers and backers over
time.
Centralized finance or CeFi, businesses resembles traditional finance.
TradFi, where consumers enter into an agreement with a company like BlockFi
that collects information about them, requires them to turn over their crypto and
also serves as a central point for regulators.
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Primarily, the CDS shifts the risk exposure away from the buyer.
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51 Digital Banking DBU is a specialized fixed point business unit for delivering digital banking
Units (DBUs) products and services.
Commercial banks (excluding regional rural banks, payment banks, and local area
banks) with past digital banking experience are permitted to open DBUs with
permission from RBI.
DBUs must offer certain minimum digital banking products and services,
including savings accounts, current accounts, fixed deposits, recurring deposits,
mobile banking, internet banking, debit/credit cards, etc.
DBUs can also provide digitally value-added services to conventional products
and end-to-end digital processing of loans.
RBI recently announced guidelines for DBUs, following the report of a working
group of the Indian Banks Association (IBA).
52 Open Network for Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is an initiative of the Department
Digital Commerce of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of
(ONDC) Commerce.
Its goal is to revolutionize digital commerce and increase the penetration of retail
e-commerce in India.
ONDC is a non-profit organization incubated at the Quality Council of India.
The major objectives of ONDC are the democratization and decentralization of
eCommerce, inclusivity and access for small and medium enterprises and local
businesses, and increased choices and independence for consumers.
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53 Difference between Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) facilitates funds transfer instructions in
RTGS and NEFT real-time on an individual settlement basis.
National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) operates on a Deferred Net
Settlement basis and settles transactions in batches.
Presently, NEFT operates in 48 half-hourly batches on a 24x7 basis.
In NEFT, transactions are netted (payable and receivables) whereas, in RTGS, the
transactions are settled individually.
In RTGS, transactions are processed continuously throughout the business hours
while any transaction initiated after a designated settlement time would have to
wait till the next designated settlement time.
54 Aadhaar Enabled It is a bank led model which allows online interoperable financial transaction
Payment System at PoS (Point of Sale / Micro ATM) through the Business Correspondent
(AEPS) (BC)/Bank Mitra of any bank using the Aadhaar authentication.
Requirement for Aadhaar Enabled Payment System transaction (AEPS):
MicroATM
Remember Aadhaar
Give Bank name (d0 Present self (Aadhaar holder) with Bio-metrics (Finger
and/or IRIS)
Assisted mode
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55 Integration of
India’s UPI and
Singapore’s
PayNow
56 Virtual Digital VDAs are digital representations of value that can be exchanged electronically,
Assets (VDAs) including cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
VDAs are defined under the Finance Bill of India's IT Act, 1961, as "any
information or Code or number or token generated through cryptographic means
or otherwise and which can be transferred, stored or traded electronically".
Risks associated with cryptocurrencies include the potential for dollarization of
the economy, which could go against India's sovereignty.
Cryptocurrencies are legal tender and official currencies in some countries, such
as El Salvador and the Central African Republic.
57 Green Bonds
58 Additional Tier-1 AT1 bonds are unsecured bonds that have perpetual tenor.
(AT1) bonds Issued by banks.
Have no maturity date.
Have a call option meaning banks can buy these bonds back from investors.
Banks used these bonds to bolster their core or tier-1 capital.
AT1 bonds are subordinate to all other debt and only senior to common equity.
Mutual funds (MFs) were among the largest investors in perpetual debt
instruments.
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59 T+1 settlement T+1 settlement cycle requires trade-related settlements to be completed within
cycle 24 hours of a transaction.
256 large-cap and top mid-cap stocks, including Nifty and Sensex stocks come
under T+1 settlement.
Under T+1, if a customer buys shares on Wednesday, they are credited to the
customer's demat account on Thursday.
Benefits of T+1 include faster settlements, allowing investors to receive money
and shares within a day, and freeing up capital required for collateralization.
60 Pension schemes
61 Employees' Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) administered by the Employees' Provident Fund
Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) was introduced in 1995.
(EPF) The pension fund comprises a deposit of 8.33% of the employer's contribution
towards the PF corpus.
Both employees and employers contribute 12% of the employee's basic salary,
dearness allowance, and retaining allowance (if any) to the Employees' Provident
Fund (EPF).
The employee's entire contribution goes to EPF, while the employer's 12%
contribution is split as 3.67% to EPF and 8.33% to EPS.
The Government of India contributes 1.16% for an employee's pension.
The maximum pensionable salary was initially Rs 5,000 per month and was raised
to Rs 15,000 from September 1, 2014.
The current pension contribution is 8.33% of Rs 15,000, i.e., Rs 1,250, unless the
employee and employer opt to contribute at actual basic salary exceeding the
pensionable salary.
62 Technical recession Two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth.
63 GDP-GVA gap GDP measures the total
monetary value of all finished
goods and services produced
within a country's borders in a
specific period of time.
GVA measures the total value
of goods and services produced
in an economy, and the amount
of value added to a product.
GVA is measured at 'basic
prices' in India.
In Q2 of FY23, India's GDP
grew by 6.3% and GVA grew by
5.6% on a year-on-year basis.
The current gap between GDP
and GVA has increased.
The calculation of GDP is based on market prices while GVA is calculated at basic
prices.
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When subsidies are high and taxes are low, GDP growth lags behind GVA growth.
GDP growth is higher than GVA when tax collection is high and subsidies are low.
64 Commitment to CRI Index is created by Oxfam International and Development Finance.
Reducing The index measures government policies and actions in 161 countries to reduce
Inequality (CRI) inequality during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Index India has improved its ranking from the previous year, moving up six places to
rank 123 in the CRI Index of 2022.
65 Veblen goods A Veblen good is a good for which demand increases as the price increases due
to its exclusive nature and appeal as a status symbol.
66 India’s India's bioeconomy is likely to touch USD 150 billion by 2025 and over USD 300
Bioeconomy billion by 2030.
Report 2022 Report brought out by: The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance
Council (BIRAC)
67 Startup India Seed SISFS approved for 4 years from 2021-22.
Fund Scheme Aim is to provide financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype
(SISFS) development, product trials, market entry and commercialization.
Initiative by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
(DPIIT).
Eligibility: Startup recognized by DPIIT and not incorporated more than 2 years
ago at the time of application. Should not have received more than Rs. 10 lakh of
monetary support under any other Central or State Government scheme.
68 PM SHRI Schools – Centrally sponsopred scheme
PM Schools for
Rising India
69 Prime Minister's PMEGP is a MSME scheme for credit linked subsidy to generate employment
Employment through micro enterprises.
Generation This is a credit linked subsidy scheme for generation of employment opportunities
Programme through establishment of micro enterprises.
(PMEGP) Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) implements it at the national
level.
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70 Glass cliff It is a situation in which women are promoted to higher positions during times
of crisis, or during a recession when the chance of failure is more likely.
Reasons for Glass cliff: Company generally promotes women to leadership
position to blame them if they fail to pull the company out of its downward spiral.
This reinforces stereotypes about women not being ideal in leadership positions.
71 Worldwide Cost of It is released by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Living Index, 2022 Objective of the index: To compare the prices of more than 200 goods and
services in 172 cities worldwide.
New York (USA) is the most Expensive City in the world followed by Singapore.
72 Environmental EKC argues positive relationship between pollution and per capita income in
Kuznets Curve initial phases of economic development.
(EKC) Prioritizes economic growth over environmental quality at first.
As countries become richer, they can afford to clean up pollution and enact stricter
regulations.
Uttarakhand is the first state in India to measure Gross Environment Product
(GEP).
73 Grameen Grameen Udyami is a multiskilling project funded by NSDC.
Udyami(multiskilli Launched with Seva Bharti and Yuva Vikas Society under Sansadiya
ng project) Parisankul Yojana.
Objective: Augment skill training in tribal communities for inclusive and
sustainable growth.
Second phase aims to train 450 tribal students in MP and Jharkhand.
Implemented in 6 states: Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, MP, Jharkhand,
and Gujarat.
Training conducted in relevant job roles like Electrician, Plumbing, 2-Wheeler
Repair, IT/ITES, Farm Mechanization.
49 clusters in 15 states selected for Parliamentary ST Cluster Development Project
by tribal MPs.
One development associate appointed by MPs in each cluster.
Objectives: Increase local economy, employment opportunities, reduce migration,
conserve resources.
74 Moonlighting Moonlighting is the concept of working a side job mostly at night or on weekends.
It involves working an extra job beyond regular working hours, often without the
knowledge of the employer.
It became popular in the US when workers sought a second job for additional
income.
Holding multiple jobs is not allowed by private companies in India.
Various states restrict double employment through Shops and Establishment
Acts, but application varies in specialized industries.
Factories Act restricts double employment, but law doesn't apply to IT companies
in some states.
75 Social Stock SSE allows social enterprises to raise funds from the public via the stock
Exchange exchange.
It helps fund providers filter non-profit organizations creating noticeable social
impact.
Institutional and non-institutional investors can invest in securities issued by
social enterprises.
Retail investors can only invest in securities issued by for-profit social enterprises.
Foreign investors are currently not allowed to invest through SSE, according to
NSE.
SSE recognizes non-profit and for-profit organizations as social enterprises.
Organizations must demonstrate that 67% of their activities target underserved or
less privileged populations or regions with lower performance in development
priorities to be recognized as social enterprises.
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76 Atal New India Atal New India Challenge is a program by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI
Challenge (ANIC) Aayog.
It supports technology-based innovations that solve sectoral challenges of national
importance and societal relevance.
It addresses the Commercialization Valley of Death by providing funds up to ₹1
crore through a grant-based mechanism.
It is open for Indian companies incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013, and
startups recognized by DPIIT.
77 Government e GeM was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Commerce.
Marketplace It is a procurement platform for government buyers to create transparency and
(GeM) openness.
It is managed by GeM Special Purpose Vehicle, a 100% Government-Owned,
Section 8 Company.
Private buyers cannot buy on the platform but can sell products to government
bodies.
The government has expanded the mandate of GeM to allow procurement by
Cooperatives as buyers on the platform.
78 One Nation One One Nation One Fertiliser scheme for a single brand and logo for fertilizers.
Fertiliser (ONOF) It is introduced under the Pradhanmantri Bhartiya Janurvarak Pariyojna
Scheme (PMBJP).
The scheme mandates companies to display their name, brand, logo and other
product info only on one-third space of their bags.
The remaining two-thirds space to show the "Bharat" brand and PMBJP logo.
Applies to public & private sector companies as well.
79 Pradan Mantri 600 PMKSKs inaugurated to cater to farmers' needs and provide agri-inputs
Kisan Samruddhi PMKSKs offer testing facilities for soil, seeds, and fertilizers
Kendras (PMKSK) Retail fertiliser shops to be converted to PMKSKs in phases
Nodal ministry is Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers.
80 Mustard Mustard is sown by October-end and flowers after 50-60 days, forming siliqua
over the next 35-40 days.
Ideal temperature for mustard growth is 15°C-25°C.
Severe cold wave makes mustard vulnerable due to advancement of siliqua
development.
Clear sunshine in the morning and sharp dip in night temperatures can damage
mustard.
Severe cold wave conditions from Jan 15-18 caused frost damage to mustard in
Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, UP and northern MP.
81 Purple Revolution Purple Revolution/Lavender Revolution: initiated by Ministry of Science and
Technology in 2016 through Aroma Mission of CSIR.
Aims to promote indigenous aromatic crop instead of foreign aromatics and bring
shift in agro-economy.
Ideal climate for growing lavender is in Jammu and Kashmir.
Uses: oil extracted from lavender for products like soap, cosmetics, perfumes, air
fresheners, medications and also resistance to pests.
82 Pradhan Mantri Launched under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
Formalisation of Centrally sponsored scheme
Micro Food Objective: Enhance competitiveness of existing micro-enterprises in unorganized
Processing food processing industry, promote formalization of sector, and provide support to
Enterprises FPOs, SHGs, and Producers Cooperatives
(PMFME) Outlay: Rs. 10,000 crore over 5 years (2020-21 to 2024-25)
Aim to assist 2,00,000 micro food processing units
Provides financial, technical, and business support for upgradation of existing
micro food processing enterprises.
83 Price Support PSS is a component of Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan
Scheme (PSS) (AASA) scheme.
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Enterprises
(PMFME) Scheme
88 Poison pill
mechanism
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Technical term for Wet leasing is ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, and
insurance).
In Wet leasing, the wet lease airline takes care of the ACMI aspects, and the airline
client pays for direct operating costs and fees.
Limitations: DGCA discourages Wet leasing, crew approval issue, short-term
arrangement, and more expensive than Dry lease.
91 India IIPDF Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme with a total outlay of Rs 150 crore for
Infrastructure 2022-23 to 2024-25.
Project It aims to aid the development of quality Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects
Development Fund by providing necessary funding support to project sponsoring authorities in the
Scheme (IIPDF Central and State Governments.
Scheme) The scheme will create a shelf of bankable viable PPP projects for achieving
modern infrastructure for the country.
IIPDF will contribute 75% of project development expenses to the Sponsoring
Authority as an interest-free loan.
The remaining 25% will be co-funded by the Sponsoring Authority.
92 Revamped Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of
Distribution Sector Power.
Scheme It aims to improve operational efficiencies and financial sustainability of
Distribution Companies.
It provides financial assistance for modernization and strengthening of distribution
infrastructure to improve reliability and quality of supply to consumers.
The proposal includes providing 25 crore Smart Prepaid meters to consumers
across India.
The scheme has a financial outlay of Rs.3,03,758 crore over a period of five years
(FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).
93 National
Infrastructure
Pipeline (NIP)
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94 National
Monetisation
Pipeline
95 PM GATI
SHAKTI
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96 National Logistics
Policy 2022
97 Tobin tax
98 Transfer Pricing Transfer pricing occurs when a party transfers goods or services to another party
for a price.
Transactions between parts of a multinational group may not be subject to the
same market forces as transactions between independent firms.
Transfer pricing refers to the value attached to transfers of goods, services, and
technology between related entities or unrelated parties controlled by a common
entity.
Transfer pricing can result in insufficient taxable income or excessive loss on a
transaction.
The Income-Tax Department conducted surveys at BBC's premises due to their
deliberate non-compliance with transfer pricing rules and vast diversion of profits.
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10 Depreciation of Rupee depreciation happens when demand for USD rises due to global economic
2 Rupee crisis or perceived safety of investing in USD.
US Federal Reserve's interest rate policies can impact currency flows and affect
rupee's value.
Inflation expectations and credibility of central bank policies also influence
currency value.
RBI and government measures to stop depreciation include increasing capital
inflows, internationalizing the rupee, and selling foreign exchange reserves to
defend INR.
10 Appreciation of Imports become cheaper, exports become expensive
3 Rupee Negative impact on IT and pharma industries heavily reliant on exports
Dip in share prices of export-reliant companies
Probability of widening trade deficit
Greater intervention required by central bank to maintain exchange rate
Risk of rupee weakening due to pressure on domestic exporters and trade balance.
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10 Overseas Direct Investment made outside India in Joint Venture (JV) or Wholly Owned
4 Investment (ODI) Subsidiary (WOS)
Can be done under Automatic or Approval Route
Indian parties not allowed to invest in foreign entities engaged in real estate
business activity
Indian parties not allowed to invest in foreign entities offering financial products
linked to Indian Rupee.
10 Foreign Exchange NRI cannot maintain local savings account in their name in India
5 Management Act NRI must convert savings into NRE or NRO account
(FEMA) rules NRE account is for foreign earnings, exempt from tax
NRO account is for managing income earned in India, subject to tax
10 London Interbank Global reference rate for unsecured short-term borrowing in interbank market
6 Offered Rate Administered by Intercontinental Exchange
(LIBOR) Computed for five currencies: Swiss franc, euro, pound sterling, Japanese yen
and US dollar
Used as benchmark for short-term interest rates, currency rate swaps and
mortgages
Indicator of health of financial system and provides idea of trajectory of
impending policy rates of central banks.
10 Impact of Global Rise in global oil prices leads to high import burden, inflation, weakening of rupee,
7 Oil Prices on and hurts stock market sentiment
Indian Economy: Increases current account and fiscal deficits
Sharp decline in crude oil prices brings relief to government, consumers, and
corporate
Potential for higher economic growth through lower inflation and higher
disposable incomes
Softening crude oil prices affect companies sensitive to crude oil prices, with a
rise in share prices due to decline in oil prices.
10 Foreign Exchange Assets held on reserve by a central bank in foreign currencies
8 Reserves Mostly dominated by Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) like US dollar, Euro,
British pound, Japanese Yen, and Chinese Yuan, and include other instruments
like bonds, treasury bills, Gold Reserves, Special Drawing Rights at IMF etc.
RBI manages India’s forex reserves under Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 and
Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999
India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves declined to over two-year low of $532.66
billion in 2022 due to decline in FCA, RBI forex interventions, high capital
outflows, and weak global outlook.
10 Export-Import EXIM bank is a Government of India-established financial institution.
9 (Exim) Bank It extends Lines of Credit (LOCs) to foreign financial institutions, regional
development banks, sovereign governments, and other entities overseas.
The objective is to facilitate import of developmental and infrastructure projects,
goods and services from India on deferred credit terms.
11 Technical Barriers It regulates the development, adoption, and application of technical regulations
0 to Trade (TBT) and standards.
Agreement It also covers procedures for testing and certification of products.
The agreement aims to prevent technical requirements from becoming
unnecessary barriers to trade.
11 Caribbean A regional organization comprising of 15 Member States and 5 Associate
1 Community Members.
(CARICOM) It is based on four pillars: economic integration, foreign policy coordination,
human and social development, and security.
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11 Indo-Pacific IPEF aims to enhance economic partnership and growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
2 Economic IPEF is a US-led initiative, not a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Framework (IPEF) India agreed to three out of four pillars, except Fair & Resilient Trade.
Members can negotiate the parts they want to.
14 countries including India are members of IPEF.
11 Business 20 (B20) B20 is the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business community that
3 delivers concrete actionable policy recommendations.
India hosted a B20 conference in partnership with CII to represent its perspective
in B20 Indonesia's policy recommendation.
G20 is a group of 19 countries + EU representing 85% of global GDP, 75% of
global trade, and 60% of the world’s population.
India is chairing G20 this year, and its presidency rotates every year among
members.
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Troika countries consist of the presidency, previous and next presidency holder,
ensuring continuity of G20 agenda.
11 New Development NDB is a multilateral development bank formed by BRICS countries in 2014.
4 Bank (NDB) NDB aims to fund sustainable development and infrastructure projects in BRICS
and other Emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs).
Its headquarters is located in Shanghai, China.
NDB has expanded its membership to include Bangladesh, UEA, Egypt, and
Uruguay.
NDB has approved 21 projects in India worth $7.1 billion.
11 Financial FIF is a fund for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR).
5 Intermediary Fund It has been established internationally with financial commitments from multiple
(FIF) countries including India.
The FIF is hosted by the World Bank and has technical support from the World
Health Organisation (WHO).
Its aim is to provide long-term financing to strengthen PPR capabilities in low-
and middle-income countries.
The fund is designed to address critical gaps at national, regional, and global
levels.
11 World Migration WMR is published by the International Organization for Migration.
6 Report India and China are among the top five remittance recipient countries.
India and China received the largest amounts of international remittances in Asia
in 2020.
The total combined amount of remittances received by India and China was over
$140 billion.
11 Eastern Economic EEF was established by Russian President Putin in 2015 to encourage foreign
7 Forum investments in Russia’s Far East (RFE).
EEF displays the economic potential, business conditions, and investment
opportunities of RFE.
In 2021, 380 agreements worth 3.6 trillion roubles were signed, an increase from
217 in 2017.
Projects/agreements planned in 2022 focus on infrastructure, transportation,
mineral excavations, construction, industry, and agriculture.
Aims to connect the Far East with the Asia Pacific region, increase foreign direct
investment in RFE, and fast modernization of various Russian cities.
11 World World Competitiveness Index, 2022 released by IMD.
8 Competitiveness India jumped six positions from 43rd to 37th.
Index, 2022 Sharpest rise among Asian economies due to gains in economic performance.
Global Competitiveness Report published by the World Economic Forum.
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POLITY
1 Constitutional Article 341 allows the President to specify castes, races, tribes or groups as
provision for Scheduled Castes (SC).
reservation Article 342 allows the President to specify tribes or groups as Scheduled Tribes
benefits to (ST).
Scheduled Castes
and Tribes History of Quota Benefits:
The first order under Article 341 was issued in 1950 for Hindus.
In 1956, Sikhs of Dalit origin were included in SC quota.
In 1990, Buddhists of Dalit origin were included in SC quota.
No person of a religion other than Hindu, Sikh or Buddhist can be considered SC.
Mandal Commission led to inclusion of many Christian and Muslim
communities in OBC lists.
Efforts for inclusion of Dalit Muslims and Christians:
Several private bills were introduced, but the Constitution (Scheduled Castes)
Orders (Amendment) Bill was not introduced in Parliament in 1996.
Ranganath Misra Commission and Sachar Committee were set up by UPA I
(2004-2008).
National Commission for Minorities (NCM) supported SC benefits to Dalit
Christians and Muslims in 2011.
Reasons for non-inclusion: change in basic tenets of religion, potential to create
further divisions, deviation from basic purpose of quota, difficulty in identifying
original caste, and undecided nature of conversion.
2 Uniform Civil UCC is a set of civil laws applicable to all citizens of India in their personal
Code (UCC) matters.
Article 44 of the Constitution contains provisions of UCC.
UCC is under the non-justiciable part of the Constitution.
Different religious communities are governed by personal laws codified through
various pieces of legislation.
Hindu personal law is codified in the Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Succession
Act, and others.
Muslim personal law's certain aspects are recognised in India in acts such as
Shariat Application Act.
The Special Marriage Act and Guardians and Wards Act are some secular
laws.
Goa is the only state in India with a UCC, but it follows the Portuguese Civil
Code.
3 Inclusion or 705 ethnic groups are listed as Scheduled Tribes in India under Article 342.
Exclusion from the More than 10 crore Indians are notified as STs; 1.04 crore live in urban areas.
Scheduled Tribes Criteria for inclusion or removal include ethnological traits, traditional
(ST) List characteristics, distinctive culture, geographical isolation, and backwardness.
Recent additions to the ST list include Hatti, Narikoravan and Kurivikkaran,
Binjhia, and Gond communities.
Alternative names for existing Scheduled Tribes have been approved for
reservation benefits.
The State government recommends communities for inclusion or removal.
The proposal goes to Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Registrar General
of India for approval.
National Commission for Scheduled Castes or National Commission for
Scheduled Tribes reviews the proposal.
Inter-ministerial deliberations lead to Union Cabinet approval.
The President’s office makes the final decision under Articles 341 and 342.
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6 Right to be
forgotten
7 International Day Theme of 100th International Cooperative Day: “Cooperatives Build a Better
of Cooperatives World”.
(CoopsDay) on Ministry of Cooperation and NCUI organizing event with the theme
July 2 “Cooperatives Build an Atmanirbhar Bharat and Better World”.
Aim is to increase awareness of cooperatives and promote ideals of international
solidarity, economic efficiency, equality and world peace.
National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) focuses on cooperative education
and training.
Union Government empowering cooperative sector with 'Sahakar Se Samriddhi'.
Cabinet approves computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
(PACS) to strengthen cooperative sector.
8 Governor and Governor’s role in law making:
State Legislatures Appointed by Central government
No bill can become law without his/her assent
Governor is part of the state legislature
Current controversies:
Delay by TN Governor in forwarding Bill for exemption from NEET to the
President
Kerala Governor announced he would not give assent to Lokayukta Amendment
Bill & Kerala University Amendment Bill
Article 200:
Governor can give assent to the bill or send it back to the assembly requesting
lawmakers to reconsider some provisions of the Bill, or the Bill itself
Governor can reserve the Bill for consideration of the President
Governor can withhold assent to the bill
Issues:
No remedy is provided when Governor withholds assent to the Bill
Constitutional challenge due to Article 361 if state government challenge refusal
of assent by Governor in court
Governor can indefinitely sit on the Bill passed by an Assembly
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17 Creation/Abolition State governments have the power to create or abolish districts by passing a law
of in the assembly or issuing an order and notifying it in the gazette.
District:Recently, 7 Centre does not have a say in the matter, except for changes in the name of a
new districts were district or railway station.
created in West The number of districts in India has been steadily increasing over the years.
Bengal. India currently has more than 775 districts.
Uttar Pradesh has the most districts (75) in the country, followed by Madhya
Pradesh (52).
Goa has the least number of districts (2).
18 Post Devolution PDRD grants are provided to states under Article 275 of the Constitution to meet
Revenue Deficit the gap in revenue accounts post devolution.
(PDRD) Grants Grants are released to states as per recommendations of successive Finance
Commissions.
The 15th Finance Commission decides the eligibility of states to receive this
grant and the quantum of grant for the period from 2020-21 to 2025-26.
The Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance has released the 7th
monthly installment of PDRD grant to 14 states.
19 Mahajan Mahajan Commission was set up by the Centre in 1966.
Commission Objective: To resolve the border dispute in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala.
Recommendation: 264 villages to be transferred to Maharashtra and Belagavi
and 247 villages to remain with Karnataka.
In 2004, Maharashtra rejected the report and moved the Supreme Court.
Belagavi is currently a part of Karnataka.
20 Zonal Councils Zonal Councils are statutory bodies created by the States Reorganisation Act of
1956.
There are five zonal councils, one for each zone: Northern, Central, Eastern,
Western, and Southern.
The North-Eastern Council is a separate body created by the North-Eastern
Council Act of 1971.
The Councils can make recommendations on matters such as border disputes,
linguistic minorities, and inter-State transport.
The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each Council.
The objectives of the Councils are national integration, preventing acute State
consciousness, promoting cooperation between Centre and States, and
establishing a climate of cooperation amongst the States.
21 Lok Adalat Lok Adalat is an ADR mechanism available to common people.
It settles disputes/cases pending in court of law or at pre-litigation stage
amicably.
Decisions are arrived at mutually acceptable terms between two or more disputing
parties.
Awards made by Lok Adalat are deemed to be a decree of civil court and final
and binding on all parties.
National, State and Permanent Lok Adalats exist as per requirement.
E-Lok Adalat combines technology and ADR mechanisms for faster, transparent
and cost-effective dispute resolution.
E-Lok Adalat improves access to justice and saves time.
22 Appointment of CJI and other judges of SC are appointed by the President under clause (2) of
Chief Justice of Article 124 of the Indian Constitution.
India (CJI) Article 124: Appointment by the President is to be done “after consultation” with
judges of the Supreme Court, as the President may “deem necessary”.
Article 217: Deals with the appointment of High Court judges.
It says the President should consult the CJI, Governor, and Chief Justice of the
High Court concerned.
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Eligibility for becoming the CJI: Apart from being an Indian citizen, the person
must
(a) have been for at least five years a Judge of a High Court or of two or more such
Courts in succession or
(b) have been for at least ten years an advocate of a High Court or of two or more
such Courts in succession, or
(c) be, in the opinion of the President, a distinguished jurist.
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23 Electronic e-SCR Project provides digital version of apex court’s judgments in manner as
Supreme Court reported in official law report ‘Supreme Court Reports’.
Reports (e-SCR) Accessible on Supreme Court’s website, mobile app, and on National Judicial
Project Data Grid’s judgment portal.
Contains entire gamut of judgments from inception of SC in 1950 till date.
Available freely to lawyers and law students.
CJI announced the launch of e-SCR project to provide access to judgments to the
common public.
24 Judicial Review Judicial Review is a court proceeding to review the lawfulness of a decision made
by a public body.
Article 13 of the Indian Constitution provides for the doctrine of judicial review.
The scope of judicial review in India is narrower than in the US.
Indian Constitution is based on "procedure established by law," while the US
Constitution is based on "due process of law."
The suitability of a candidate cleared by Collegium for appointment as a judge is
not subject to judicial review according to the Supreme Court.
25 Article 142 & Article 142: SC can pass orders necessary for complete justice in any matter
Article 145 (5) pending before it, enforceable throughout India.
Recently, SC released remaining convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case
under Article 142.
Article 145(5): No judgment delivered by SC without concurrence of majority
judges present, but dissenting judgment can be given.
Majority view of larger bench always prevails over a bench of lesser strength.
26 National e-Vidhan Objective: make legislative work and data available online for citizens and
Application Assembly members
(NeVA) Bring all legislatures together in one platform, create a data depository, streamline
information, eliminate paper use
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
27 Tribunals & Tribunals High Courts
Courts Established by acts of Parliament.inserted via Established by Constitution of
42nd CAA, 1976 by adding 323A India only
(Administrative Tribunal) and 323B (For other Objective: To interpret and
matters) maintain law and order in their
Recommended by Swaran Singh Committee jurisdiction and give decisions
Objective: To resolve disputes and complaints on civil and criminal cases
on specific matters Bound by procedural codes
Not bound by specific procedures but Members are only from
governed by Principles of Natural Justice Judiciary
Members: A mix of judicial and experts with Power to use all enacted laws
special knowledge before making a decision.
Limited to the laws under which they are set
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34 Armed Forces
(Special) Powers
Act (AFSPA)
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& Aspirational a) Mentioned in Union Budget 2023- Objective: To transform 112 most
District 24. under-developed districts quickly
Programme b) Coverage: Covering 500 blocks. launched in 2018.
Over half of these blocks are in Uttar Programme focus: On strength of each
Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, district, identifying low-hanging fruits
Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal. for immediate improvement and and
c) Objective:Saturation of essential measuring progress by ranking
government services across multiple districts monthly.
domains such as health, nutrition, 5 broad socioeconomic themes are
education, agriculture etc. Health & Nutrition, Education,
d) Key Indicators: 15 key socio- Agriculture & Water
economic indicators (KSIs). States Resources,Financial Inclusion & Skill
have flexibility to include additional Development and Infrastructure.
state specific KSIs. Approach: Convergence,
e) Programme Focus:Improving Colloaboration and Competition.
governance by converging existing
schemes.
46 Chargesheet vs
First Information
Report
47 Bail Process Refers to temporary release of accused in a criminal case in which court has a trial
pendingand is yet to announce the judgement.
Bail is a right if the person accused is detained or arrested for a bailable offence
under (Section 436 of CrPC).
Anticipatory Bail: A person can apply for this if he/she could be arrested for a
non-bailable offense (Section 438 of CrPC).
Court has power to cancel bail at any stage under sections 437 and 439 of CrPC.
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59 Scheduled Tribes
and other
Traditional Forest
Dwellers
(Recognition of
Forest Rights) Act,
2006
60 Official Secrets Act The Official Secrets Act was first enacted in 1923 and was retained after
Independence.
The law makes spying, sharing ‘secret’ information, unauthorised use of uniforms,
withholding information, interference with the armed forces in
prohibited/restricted areas, among others, punishable offences.
OSA does not define “secret” or “official secrets”.
61 Bar Council of Established by Parliament under Advocates Act, 1961
India (BCI) Objective: Toregulate and represent Indian bar.
Statutory functions of BCI:
a) Lay down standards of professional conduct and etiquette for advocates.
b) Safeguard rights, privileges and interests of advocates.
c) Recognise Universities whose degree in law shall be a qualification for
enrolment as
an advocate
62 Appointment of Prakash Singh vs Union Judgement (2006): SC issued guidelines for DGP
Director General of appointment
Police (DGP) DGP is to be selected by state government from among three-senior most officers
whose
name has been suggested by UPSC (Issued its guidelines in 2009).
UPSC suggest names on basis of their length of service, very good record and
experience
(30 years).
DGP should have a fixed tenure of two years in the post, irrespective of retirement
date.
63 Lokpal and ‘Lokpal-Lokayukta’, coined by L. M. Singhvi Administrative Reforms
Lokayukta Commission in 1966.
Central Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 was notified in 2014:
a) Provides for establishment of a statutory body of Lokpal for Union and
Lokayukta for States.
b) Objective: To inquire into allegations of corruption against public functionaries.
c) Lokayuktas are state equivalents of central Lokpal.Maharashtra in 1971, and
Kerala
in 1999 already have Lokayuktas.
It extends to the whole of India and apply to public servants in and outside India
Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013:
a) Composition: Chairperson and a maximum of eight members.
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b) Tenure of office: Term of five years or until attaining age of 70 years, whichever
is earlier.
c) Shall be appointed by President on recommendations of a SC. d) Selection
Committee (SC): It constitute of
i) Prime Minister as Chairperson.
ii) Lok Sabha Speaker,
iii) Leader of Opposition
iv) Chief Justice of India (CJI) or his nominee.
v) Eminent jurist nominated by President based on recommendation of other
members of panel.
e) Timelines for enquiry, investigation:60 days for completion of inquiry and 6
months for completion of investigation by CBI.
f) Removal: Removed by President after an inquiry by SC for that a petition has
to be signed by at least 100 Members of Parliament (MP).
g) Lokpal Jurisdiction:Prime Minister, Ministers, MP, Group A, B, C and D
officers and officials of central government.Any society or trust or body that
receives foreign contribution above ₹10 lakh.
64 Unique UIDAI is under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
Identification It assigns a 12-digit unique identification (UID) number (Aadhaar) to all the
Authority of India residents of India.
(UIDAI) Aadhaar Act 2016 was established to provide a legal framework for Aadhaar.
CIDR contains all Aadhaar numbers issued to Aadhaar holders along with,
corresponding demographic and biometric information of such individuals.
New amendment requires supporting documents to be updated “at least once” by
Aadhaar holders on completion of 10 years from enrolment date.
Aadhaar biometrics cannot be used for forensics and sharing or use of biometric
information for any purpose other than generation of Aadhaar number and
authentication, is impermissible under Aadhaar Act, 2016.
65 Central Consumer CCPA is a regulatory authority set up under Section 10(1) of the Consumer
Protection Protection Act, 2019 in relation to matters affecting rights of consumers by
Authority (CCPA) individuals or entities following improper trade practices or by display of
inappropriate or wrong advertisements affecting public interest and helps
promoting consumer trust by enforcing the rights of consumers through effective
guidelines.
66 National NCST was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A
Commission for in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
Scheduled Tribes Scheduled Tribes
(NCST) Article 366 defined scheduled tribes as "such tribes or tribal communities or
parts of or groups within such tribes or tribal communities as are deemed under
Article 342 to be Scheduled Tribes for the purposes of this constitution".
Article 342: The President may, with respect to any State or Union territory,
and where it is a state, after consultation with the Governor there of by public
notification, specify the tribes or tribal communities or parts of or groups within
tribes or tribal communities which shall, for the purposes of this constitution, is
deemed to be scheduled tribes in relation to that state or Union Territory, as the
case may be.
Parliament may by law include in or exclude from the list of Scheduled tribes
specified in a notification.
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Along with these, some tribal groups have some specific features such as
dependency on hunting, gathering for food, having pre-agriculture level of
technology, zero or negative growth of population and extremely low level of
literacy. These groups are called Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
HISTORY/CULTURE
1 Uttaramerur News: ‘The Hindu’ article on India’s tryst with democratic and republic
inscriptions institutions from ancient times.
Uttaramerur inscriptions: 14 copper plates from 10th century AD, record
decisions of Sabha (village council) in Tamil Nadu, provide insights into Chola
dynasty's political, social, and economic systems.
Kudumbu system: form of local self-government, prevalent in many Tamil
Nadu villages at the time.
Nadu system: regional administration based on dividing the kingdom into
smaller units (nadus), governed by a nadu officer.
Ur system: urban administration governed by a council of local merchants and
traders.
Kadamai: tax collection system including land, sales, and goods/services taxes.
Parakesarivarman inscriptions: genealogical details of Chola dynasty under
Parantaka Chola II (957-970 CE).
Chola contributions to water management: Kallani dam, Veeranam lake,
eris/kulam (small tanks/ponds), canals, innovative water diversion methods,
water taxes, pollution laws.
Other ancient water management systems: Eri Varyam (separate body for
lake management under Pallava reign), Sudarshan lake (built by Chandragupta
Maurya, repaired by Rudradaman-I and Skandagupta), Rani Ki Vav (stepwell in
Gujarat built by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhimdev I).
2 Cholas, Pandyas and Cheras
Aspects Cholas Pandyas Cheras
Ruled over parts of
Occupied large area of South South India and Sri Ruled over parts of South
Location India Lanka India and Sri Lanka
3rd century BCE - 13th 4th century CE - 15th 1st century BCE - 12th
Time Period century CE century CE century CE
Culture & Tamil culture and
Language Tamil culture and language language Tamil culture and language
Decentralized with Decentralized with power
Political Centralized monarchy with power held by local held by local rulers and
structure powerful king rulers and chieftains chieftains
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Involved in trade,
Extensive trade networks, particularly with Roman Involved in trade,
controlled important ports Empire and Southeast particularly with Roman
such as Nagapattinam, Asia, controlled ports Empire and Southeast Asia,
Trade and Kaveripattinam, and such as Korkai, Madurai, controlled ports such as
commerce Mamallapuram and Tondi Muziris and Tyndis
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5 Ahom Kingdom News: The 400th birth anniversary celebrations of Borphukan, from November
23 to 25 in New Delhi, are part of the BJP-led Assam government’s efforts to
popularie the Assam hero.
Location: Brahmaputra Valley in present-day Northeast India
Time Period: 13th century to 19th century
First King: Sukaphaa (1228 AD)
Zenith: Reign of Swargadeo Rudra Singha (1696–1714)
Social System: "Paik System" based on military service
Religious Tolerance: Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous animistic beliefs
coexisting peacefully
Annexation: British East India Company in 1826 after the First Anglo-Burmese
War
Mughal Invasion: Led by Mir Jumla in 1662, repelled by Ahom army led by
King Jayadhwaj Singha, attributed to superior knowledge of terrain and effective
use of guerrilla tactics.
6 Paika rebellion The 1817 Paika Rebellion in Odisha, India was led by peasant militias known
as Paikas, organized by the rulers of Khurda.
The British responded with brutality, executing many rebel leaders and
confiscating Paikas' property.
7 Brihadeswara News: Anand Mahindra shares video clip of ‘powerful and technologically
temple advanced’ Brihadisvara Temple.
Also known as Periya Kovil, RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajesvaram
Located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Built in 11th century CE by Chola king Raja Raja I
Dedicated to Lord Shiva
Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as "Great Living Chola
Temples"
Other temples in the group are Gangaikonda Cholapuram and
Airavatesvaratemple
Striking feature is the massive vimana or tower, over 66 meters tall
Tower is topped by a massive stone dome weighing over 80 tons.
8 Rock cut News: Modhera Temple, Vadnagar in Gujarat & Unakoti in Tripura make it to
sculptures and UNESCO's Tentative List.
Reliefs of Unakoti, Location: In Tripura
Unakoti Range Time period: 7th to 9th century CE, during Kamarupa Kingdom
Number of sculptures: large number of rock-cut sculptures and reliefs, with
estimates ranging from 10,000 to 30,000.
Style: display a range of styles, including Hindu and Buddhist motifs.
most prominent sculpture is that of a 30-foot tall Shiva head, known as the
"Unakoti Shiva."
Other: Depictions of Boddhisattavas, Chaturmukhalingaand one Eka-
mukalinga.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9 Martand temple News: J&K LG's puja at Martand temple was in violation of rules.
Martand Temple built by King Lalitaditya of Karkota dynasty who ruled
Kashmir from 725 AD to 753 AD.
Dedicated to Vishnu-Surya and located in Parihaspora, Kashmir.
Only three-chambered temple in Kashmir with distinct mandapa, garbhagriha,
and antralaya.
Unique Kashmiri style with Gandhar and Gupta period influences.
Original complex had a principal shrine, two smaller structures, central
courtyard with 84 pillars, and a water canal supplied by Lidar river.
Use of evenly dressed grey limestone and lime mortar in temple walls.
Influence of Greco-Roman, Buddhist-Gandhara, and North Indian architectural
styles.
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12 Kesava temple News: Keshava temple at Somanathapur getting a makeover ahead of UNESCO
team’s visit.
Trikuta Temple
Dedicated to Lord Krishna in Janardhana, Keshava and Venugopala forms.
Built under King Narasimha III.
Architectural Details:
Lathe turned pillars, symmetrical architecture,and intricate sculptures.
Sculptures of Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, Goddess
Lakshmi and Saraswati
Built on the banks of River Kaveri.
Administration:
Pancha Pradhans: Senior Minister
Sandhivigrahi: Ministers responsible for foreign affairs
Hiranyabhandari or Mahabhandari: Chief Treasurer.
Dandanayaks led armies
Dharamadhikaris served as Chief Justice.
13 Monuments of News: UNESCO recognition brings to focus restoration of 6 stepwells at Qutb
Qutb Shahi Shahi Tombs.
dynasty
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Golconda Fort
Fortified citadel
Architectural styles: Blend Persian, Pathan and Hindu
Built with local granite.
Surfaces ornamented with intricate incised Plasterwork.
Charminar:
Archetype of the chaubara.
Built in 16th century.
First monument in the world constructed using lime
mortar and granite.
Remarkable example of Shia city planning
Qutb Shahi Tombs:
Comprises major seven tombs.
Overall complex consists of 30 tombs, mosques, and a mortuary bath.
Material used: Grey granite embellished with stucco ornamentation.
Domed structures built on square bases surrounded by pointed arches
14 Cyclopean wall News: Bihar sends fresh proposal seeking UNESCO’s heritage tag for 2,500-yr-
old ‘Cyclopean wall’.
Encircled the ancient city of Rajgir in Bihar.
Rajgir, capital of King Bimbisara and his son Ajatshatru.
Wall Built in the pre-Mauryan era (before 3rd century BC).
It was erected by King Jarasandha, the 2nd ruler of Brihadratha (Rawani)
dynasty.
Among the oldest examples of cyclopean masonry in the world.
Cyclopean masonry is used to describe a type of megalithic architecture.
It entails the working of unusually large blocks of stone without mortar, often
for the construction of fortifications.
Cyclopean Wall at Rajgir is like “Frontiers of the Roman Empire” that runs
through Germany, UK and Northern Ireland.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire”included on UNESCO’s world heritage list in
1987.
15 UNESCO World Nalanda Mahavihara:
Heritage Sites in Founded in the early 5th century.
Bihar By Kumaragupta (Shakraditya) of the Gupta dynasty
Flourished for 600 years until the 12th century.
Listed as an "Institute of National Importance" by the government.
Mahabodhi temple of Bodhygaya:
Lord Buddha attained enlightenment here.
Original structure was built by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka.
Reconstructed entirely in brick in late Gupta period.
Present temple dates to 5th or 6th centuries.
16 Mahakaleshwar News: NSA Ajit Doval offer prayers at Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain.
temple First established by Prajapita Brahma.
Prince Kumarasena (son of king Chanda Pradyota of Pradyot dynasty) in 6th
century BC looked after the temple.
Kalidasa in Raghuvansam described this temple as ‘Niketana’.
Redeveloped and reconstructed over the centuries and bears strong influences of
the Bhumija, Chalukya, and Maratha architectural styles.
Only jyotirlinga facing the south, and believed to be swayambhu i.e. self-
manifested.
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Famous features of Temple is the Bhasma aarti —prayer offering of ashes and
and women are not allowed to witness it
17 Major Harappan Rakhigarhi:
sites One of the five known biggest townships of Harappan civilization
Represents mature Harappan phase.
Had planned township having mudbrick as well as burnt-brick houses with
proper drainage system.
Findings of Animal sacrificial pit lined with mud brick and triangular and
circular fire alters on the mud floor
Kalibangan, Rajasthan:
Kalibangan or 'black bangles'.
Dense distribution of the fragments of black bangles at the surface of its
mounds.
It had ploughed field.
Lower city of Kalibangan was fortified
Banawali, Haryana:
Known for centralized planning.
Main streets were winding rather than straight.
The excavations have yielded three-fold culture sequence: Pre-Harappan
(Early-Harappan), Harappan and Bara (post Harappan).
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24 Dokra art News: PM Modi presents black pottery pieces, Dokra art, ittar bottles to G-7
leaders in Germany.
Places famous for Dokra work are Bikna in Bankura and Dariyapur in
Bardhaman(West Bengal).
Dokra uses ancient lost-wax casting technique to cast metal.
Use a non-ferrous metal like copper and its alloys or bronze.
Its documented history is about 5,000 years old.
It is a traditional art of Jharkhand.
Lal Bazaar on boundary of Jharkhand and West Bengal is becaming famous for
Dokra art.
25 Rogan painting News: PM Modi gifts hand-carved box with Rogan painting to Japan's Fumio
Kishida
Form of cloth painting.
More than four centuries old.
Now practiced by only a single family in Nirona, Kachchh, Gujarat.
The word ‘rogan’ comes from Persian, meaning varnish or oil.
The craft uses paint made from boiled oil and vegetable dyes.
Generally, geometrical motifs are preferred.
26 Rock Carvings News: Experts and conservationists have raised concerns over the proposed
(Petroglyphs) of location for a mega oil refinery in Barsu village of Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri district. They claim that the refinery might damage prehistoric geoglyphs found
in the area.
About Petroglyphs: Drawn by removing part of a rock surface.
Petroglyphs of Ratnagiri:
Classified as protected monuments.
Made in hard lateritic rock during Prehistoric era.
Added to tentative list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites.
Total rock cravings in Konkan region
Over 1,000 (also called katal Shilpa).
Depicting sculptures of various animals, birds, geometrical structures, and
ancient hieroglyphics.
Unlike Bhimbetka and Mirzapur carvings, no scenes of animal hunting are
depicted here.
27 Puli Thevar News: PM pays homage to Puli Thevar on his birth anniversary.
Puli Thevar, born in 1715, was one of the 77 Polygars or Local Chieftains in
Tamil region, India.
He was one of the first Indians to resist British imperialism.
Puli Thevar first encountered British forces in 1755 during the march of Colonel
Alexander Heron on western Tamil region.
He led the Revolt of Puli Thevar from 1755-1767 to defy the authority of the
British East India Company.
Puli Thevar formed a confederacy of Palayakkars (local chiefs) with the support
of Pathan officers against the British and Arcot Nawab Mohamed Ali.
Palayakkars of Sivagiri and Ettayapuram did not join Puli Thevar's confederacy.
Puli Thevar was defeated by Captain Campbell in 1767 and died in exile.
28 Gandhi vs Bose Mahatma Gandhi Subhas Chandra Bose
Gandhi was willing to wait a long Bose’s focus was on immediate action,
time for Independence if not immediate results.
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Many Dalit communities of the region consider her an incarnation of God and
celebrate Jhalkaribai Jayanti in her honor.
39 Durgawati Devi or Durgawati Devi or Durga Bhabhi was a revolutionary who fought against
Durga Bhabhi colonial rule.
Born in Allahabad in 1907, she was married to HSRA member Bhagwati Charan
Vohra.
She was a member of the Naujawan Bharat Sabha.
Durga Bhabhi helped Bhagat Singh escape from Lahore after the killing of
British police officer John P Saunders in 1928.
She made an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate former Punjab Governor, Lord
Hailey, as revenge for the hanging of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
40 Rani Gaidinliu
41 Rani Chennamma Rani Chennamma was the queen of Kittur in present-day Karnataka.
She led an armed rebellion against British rule in 1824.
She fought back against the British attempt to control her dominion after the
death of her young son and the loss of her husband in 1816.
She is considered one of the few rulers of the time who understood the colonial
designs of the British.
Rani Chennamma defeated the British in her first revolt but was captured and
imprisoned during the second assault by the East India Company.
42 Begum Hazrat Begum Hazrat Mahal led a revolt against the British after they annexed Awadh
Mahal in 1856.
She fought in several battles during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, including the
Siege of Lucknow, Battle of Chinhat, Battle of Banaras, and Battle of
Faizabad.
The Siege of Lucknow was one of the most significant battles led by her.
She used guerilla warfare tactics and launched surprise attacks against the
British army, inflicting heavy casualties.
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She was a skilled strategist and mobilized a large number of soldiers to fight
against the British.
43 Velu Nachiyar Velu Nachiyar was a queen of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu who fought against
the British East India Company.
She was born in 1730 in Ramanathapuram and was trained in martial arts, horse
riding, and archery.
After her husband's death in 1760, she became the queen of Sivaganga and
waged a guerrilla war against the British.
She led the Battle of Kalaiyar Koil and established the women's regiment
known as the "udaiyaal."
Velu Nachiyar sponsored the creation of the Tamil literary work called
"Nachiyar Tirumozhi" and the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord
Vishnu.
44 Adi Adi Sankaracharya was a philosopher and spiritual leader in 8th century CE
Sankaracharya India.
Developed Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing the unity of all things and ultimate
reality of universe as Brahman.
Goal of human life: realize unity of individual self (Atman) with universal self
(Brahman).
Emphasized meditation and spiritual practice to attain enlightenment.
Four mathas established in different parts of India: Sringeri, Dwarka, Puri, and
Joshimath.
45 Alluri Sitharama Alluri Sitharama Raju:
Raju & Komaram Born in Andhra Pradesh, believed to be born in 1897 or 1898.
Bheem Became a sanyasi at 18.
Led guerrilla resistance against British in Ganjam, Visakhapatnam, and
Godavari.
Rampa Rebellion or Manyam Rebellion began in August 1922 and lasted until
May 1924.
Charismatic leader, captured and executed.
Komaram Bheem:
Born in Gond tribal community in Sankepally village in Komarambheem
District.
Killed jagirdar and occupied family's land.
Opposed Nizam government's tax collection, spread the message of "Jal, Jangal,
Zameen" among tribal people.
Trained tribal people to fight with weapons.
Died at the hands of Nizam's army in Jodeghat forest.
46 Uda Devi Dalit freedom fighter in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Born in a small village in Awadh, Uttar Pradesh.
Part of the royal guard of Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh.
Known for her courageous battle in Lucknow termed as Battle in Sikandar Bagh.
47 Pingali Venkayya Architect of India’s National Flag.
Born in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh
He was a freedom fighter and a Gandhian
He designed the new flag for the National Congress Meeting in 1921.
It was officially adopted by the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1931.
48 Guru Ravidas Born in 1377 C.E. at Manduadih in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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52 Bihar’s lost city: Recently, a Buddhist monastery was unearthed in the area around the town of
Krimila Lakhisarai.
Two burnt clay sealings were discovered on a hilltop known as Lal Pahari.
The excavated area atop the hill was the first hilltop monastery in the Gangetic
valley.
The monastery was run by a woman monk named Vijayshree Bhadra.
Krimila was a religious-cum-administrative center in eastern India during the
early medieval period.
It was a flourishing urban settlement known for the manufacture of stone
sculptures.
The region was first surveyed by Major General Sir Alexander Cunningham.
Inscriptions of early India mention Krimila as a Visaya, including the Nalanda
plate of Samudragupta, Bihar inscription of Gupta period, and Naulagarh
inscription of Pala period.
53 Sittanavasal News: With much of the art in Sittanavasal either damaged or vandalised,
Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken conservation measures and also
introduced digital checks to track public access
Jain heritage site in Tamil Nadu.
It is a hillock housing
It uses fresco-secco technique.
Findings:
a) 2ndcentury Rock cave temple of Arivar Kovil.
b) Temple of Arihats, i.e. Jain Monks who conquered their senses).
c) Mahavir statue, meditation hall and Pandya paintings.
d) 17 polished rock beds- collectively known as Ezhadipattam.
e) Burial pots, known as Muthumakkal Thazhi, to bury the Jain monks after
death
54 Kashmir before Karkota Dynasty:
Mughals First king: Durlabhavardhana
Issued coins and extended his territories beyond Kashmir.
Chinese pilgrim Hsuan Tsang spent three years in Kashmir during his reign.
Second king: Lalitaditya
Known for military exploits and active patronage of arts and letters.
Capital was Parihaspura.
Defeated Yasovarma of Kanauj and annexed his kingdom.
Contributions: Foundations of many towns and settlements, building of
temples and mathas.
Architectural wonders: Four Vaishnava shrines with gold and silver images,
Buddhist temple enshrining a brass image, and a Monastery.
Most important religious foundation: Sun temple at Martanda.
Followers of the Brahmanical religion but extended liberal patronage to
Buddhism.
Utpala dynasty
First king: Avantivarma
Brought peace, prosperity, and stability to Kashmir.
Founded Avantipura and built Avantisvami and Avantisvara temples there.
Poets and authors adorning his courts: Bhatta Kallata, Muktakana, Sivasvami,
Ratnakara, and Anandavardhana.
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Kashmir Sultanate:
Anandadeva's death in 1326 led to Shah Mir's revolt and takeover.
Shah Mir was the first Muslim ruler of Kashmir.
Sons Jamshed and Sher Ali succeeded Shah Mir in 1349.
Jamshed adopted the title Alauddin and emerged victorious in power struggle
with Sher Ali.
Sher Ali ruled as Shahabuddin until his death in 1363.
Qutubuddin succeeded Sher Ali in 1386, followed by his son Sikandar in 1396.
Sikandar, known as Butshikan, destroyed Hindu temples and forcefully
converted Hindus.
Sikandar accepted overlordship of Central Asian invader Taimur in 1398.
Amir Khan succeeded Sikandar in 1416 but was deposed by his brother Shadi
Khan in 1422.
Zain-ul-Abidin was a ruler of Kashmir who reversed Sikandar’s conservative
policies and restored many temples.
He allowed Hindus and Buddhists to practice their religion and was a patron of
art, literature, and poetry.
Kashmir faced uncertainty for fifty years after Muhammad’s death, during
which the Chak dynasty ruled.
Kashmir became a part of the Mughal Empire under Akbar.
Rajatarangini by Kalhana is a major historical source of Kashmir’s history.
Lime mortar started to be used in buildings after the establishment of the Delhi
Sultanate in the 13th century.
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He allowed Hindus and Buddhists to practice their religion and was a patron of
art, literature, and poetry.
Kashmir faced uncertainty for fifty years after Muhammad’s death, during
which the Chak dynasty ruled.
Kashmir became a part of the Mughal Empire under Akbar.
Rajatarangini by Kalhana is a major historical source of Kashmir’s history.
Lime mortar started to be used in buildings after the establishment of the Delhi
Sultanate in the 13th century.
55 Patna or Pataliputra was an ancient city founded by Magadhan ruler Ajatshatru at the
Pataliputra confluence of the Sone and Ganga rivers.
Greek traveler Megasthenes praised its local self-government and honesty of
locals in his book Indika.
Fa-Hien and Hiuen Tsang also described it as one of the best cities in the world.
Nalanda University was a few kilometers from Pataliputra.
Ralph Fitch in 1586 praised its flourishing trade in cotton, sugar, and opium,
while Francis Buchanan described it in unflattering expression.
It became the capital of Nandas, Mauryas, Guptas, and Palas, and Chandragupta
Maurya was born here.
Aurangzeb renamed it Azimabad for a brief period, and it was revived under
Afghan king Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century.
54 Ayodhya Ayodhya means 'to fight'.
Sacred city for Hindus, but also associated with Buddhism and Islam.
Valmiki’s Ramayana mentions Ayodhya as the capital of Ikshvaku’s Kosala
kingdom.
Magadhan king Ajatshatru annexed Saket (Ayodhya).
Hanumangarhi built during Nawab Asad-ud-Daulah’s reign.
Ain-i-Akbari by Abul Fazl mentions two large graves believed to be of Seth
and Job.
Fifth century BCE, Saket (Ayodhya) was a busy town at the intersection of two
major routes.
Prasenjit, king of Kosala, ruled from the capital Sravasti, which is also another
name for Ayodhya
55 Adichanallur Adichanallur is an archaeological site located in the lower valley of
Tamirabarani river in Tamil Nadu.
It is a megalithic site that showcases megalithic culture and transitions to the
Iron Age and Sangam period.
Korkai, an ancient seaport mentioned in Sangam literature, is about 25 km from
Adichanallur.
Skeletons found at Adichanallur megalithic burial site are of different ethnic
origins.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed a gold diadem from a huge
burial urn at the site.
56 Kapilvastu Relics Buddha's body was cremated by the Mallas of Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh.
Buddha's relics were divided into eight shares among different groups including
the Sakyas of Kapilavastu.
Holy relics of Lord Buddha to be taken from India to Mongolia on occasion of
Mongolia's Buddha Purnima.
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The relics are currently housed in the National Museum and known as
'Kapilvastu Relics'.
The relics will be displayed at the Batsagaan Temple within the premises of
Gandan Monastery in Mongolia.
57 Buddhist Councils
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Jain monks and nuns cease travelling and stay with a community during rainy
season.
Monks and Nun available to lay men for instruction and guidance.
Paryushan means ‘abiding’ or ‘coming together’.
It concludes with a time of confession and forgiveness for the transgressions of
the previous Year.
Aparigraha:
Jainism principle of non-possessiveness.
Focuses on creating a balance between desires and needs and detachment from
your own possessions.
Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga also mentioned Aparigraha as yamas, or codes
of ethical behavior.
62 Design of the State Animals: Four roaring majestic lions facing the four cardinal directions.
Emblem a) Represent power, courage, pride, confidence.
b) The four lions of the capital symbolize stress on equality and justice in all
spheres of life.
Four animals in between the chakras are the guardians of four directions.
These animals appear to be rolling the chakras in the Abacus.
Elephant: represents the conception of Prince Siddhartha.
Bull: Represents Prince Siddhartha in his youth.
Horse: Depicts Siddhartha renouncing royal life in search of Enlightenment.
Lion: Depiction of Siddhartha attaining Enlightenment under the Peepal tree
and his transformation as Buddha.
Dharma Chakra or the Ashok Chakra signifies Dharma (virtue).
The 24 spokes of the Chakra portray the e passage of time.
The spokes signify moving forward in life.
63 Maratha Navy News: PM Modi called Maratha Navy the ‘father’ of Indian Navy
Organization:
a) The Navy was divided into two ‘Subhas’ or divisions;
b) Every division had five Gurabs and, fifteen Galbats (fighting ships).
c) Each division was under the command of two admirals; Darya Sarang and
Mai Nayak (Bhandari).
Ships:
a) Fighting ships and merchant ships are types of Maratha ships
b) The fighting ships included Gurabs, and Galbats.
c) The merchant ships consisted of machuva, shibar, tarandiand pagar.
Strength:
a) Maratha navy developed into a ferocious force with more than 500 ships.
b) Special among his warships was Sanghameshwari.
Naval Infrastructure: Many coastal forts such as Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg and
others along the Konkan coast
Major Naval events in Maratha history:
In 1665, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj undertook naval expedition to North
Canara and raided Barcelor
In1679,Marathas occupied the island of Khanderi, south of Bombay.
In 1690s Kanhoji established the might of Maratha navy through adopting the
European technologies and improved artillery.
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In 1756, Maratha naval supremacy came to an end with the joint task force of
the Peshwa and English against Tulaji Angre at Vijaydurg.
64 Tribal revolts in India
18th Century Revolts
1) Chuar rebellion (1766-72) Led by Raghunath Mahto; first tribal revolt in India.
1771-1809: By Bhumij tribes of Jungle Mahals.
1798-99: Led by Durjan Singh.
2) Chakma revolt (1770-87) In Chittagong Hill Tracts.
3) Halba rebellion (1774-79) HalbaDongar by Halba tribes in Bastar state against British
armies and the Marathas.
19th Century Revolts
4) Ahom revolt (1828) In Assam region after the First Anglo Burmese War. Led by
GomdharKonvar.
5) Khasi uprising (1830-33) Tirot Sing Syiem was the uprising's leader.
6) Kol uprising (1831-32) By Kol tribals including the Ho, Oraon, Bhumij and Munda
people in Chota Nagpur.
7) Khond rebellion (1850) In Orissa Tributary States under leadership of chief Bisoi.
8) Santhal rebellion (1855-56) By the Santhal community against the British in Rajmahal
Hills led by Sido and Kanho.
9) Munda rebellion (1899-1900) Revolt by the Munda tribal community under leadership of
Birsa Munda (The Ulgulan)
20th Century Revolts
10) Bastar rebellion (1910) In Bastar state of the Central Provinces of Berar.
11) Revolt of Bhils (1913) In the Mangarh Hills of the Aravalli Range.
12) Kuki Uprising (1917-19) In Manipur against British colonial rule under the leadership
of their chieftains called haosa.
13) Rampa rebellion (1922) Also known as the Manyam Rebellion, led by Alluri
Sitarama Raju in Godavari Agency of Madras Presidency.
14) Naga revolt (1932) Nagas revolted under leadership of 14-year-old Rani
Gaidinliu in Manipur.
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GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
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Ministry of Defence
5 Services e-HealthSeHAT is a tri-services teleconsultation service of the Ministry of Defence
Assistance and
(MoD).
Teleconsultation It is designed for entitled personnel and their families, and aims to provide
(SeHAT) healthcare services to patients in their homes.
Part of the government's commitment to Digital India and e-Governance.
SeHAT Stay Home OPD is based on the eSanjeevani model.
SeHAT OPD is a patient-to-doctor system where the patient can consult a doctor
remotely through the internet.
Ministry Of Women and Child Development
6 Mission Vatsalya Promotes family-based non-institutional care of children in diffi cult
circumstances.
Implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, fund-sharing between Center
and States.
Objective: To secure a healthy and happy childhood for each and every child in
the country through
a) Improve functioning of statutory bodies.
b) Strengthen service delivery structures
c) Upscale institutional care and services
d) Encourage non-institutional community-based care
e) Emergency outreach services
f) Training and capacity building
7 Inclusion of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao was launched in January 2015 to prevent gender-
skilling in Beti biased sex-selective elimination, ensure survival & protection of the girl child,
Bachao, Beti education and participation of the girl child, and protecting the rights of girl
Padhao children.
Joint initiative of the Ministries of Women and Child Development, Health
and Family Welfare, and Human Resource Development.
Skilling for girls has been included in the scheme.
New additions to the scheme include a 1% annual increment in enrolment of
girls at the secondary school level, raising awareness about safe menstrual
hygiene, and eliminating child marriages.
The scheme focuses on increasing the enrolment of girls in secondary education,
particularly in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics).
8 Pradhan Mantri PMMVV is a Maternity Benefit Programme.
Matru Vandana Implemented under National Food Security Act, 2013, it provides direct cash
Yojana (PMMVY) transfer to expectant mothers.
All Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers are eligible except regular women
employees in Central/State Govt. or PSUs or receiving similar benefits.
On average, a woman gets Rs. 6,000, distributed in three installments of Rs.
5,000 and a cash incentive under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY).
Aadhaar of Husbands is not mandatory for availing benefits under PMMVY.
9 Mission Shakti Integrated women empowerment programme
Launched for implementation during 15th Finance Commission period 2021-22
to 2025-26
Objective: To ensure a lifecycle support system for women
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Sub-schemes:
Sambal: for safety and security of women
One-Stop Centre
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Mahila Police Volunteers
Nari Adalats
Samarthya: for empowerment of women
Gender Budgeting
Swadhar Greh
Working Women Hostels
National Creche Scheme
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
Implementing body: Union Ministry of Women and Child Development
10 Saksham Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 are restructured schemes of ICDS and
Anganwadi and POSHAN Abhiyaan.
Poshan 2.0 Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG) is also included in this restructure.
Saksham Anganwadi aims to address malnutrition challenges under Anganwadi
Services.
Poshan 2.0 aims to contribute to human capital development and address
malnutrition challenges.
AYUSH systems will be integrated under Poshan 2.0 for wellness and
nourishment.
Ministry of Agriculture
11 Pradhan Mantri PMFBY is a government sponsored crop insurance scheme.
Fasal Bima Yojna It replaces the NAIS/MNAIS schemes and integrates multiple stakeholders on a
(PMFBY) single platform.
It covers risks related to sowing, planting, germination, standing crop failure,
post-harvest losses, and calamities.
It covers food crops, oilseeds, and annual commercial/horticultural crops.
There is no upper limit on government subsidy and exemption from Service Tax
liability.
Premiums are uniform at 2% for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5%
for annual commercial/horticultural crops.
12 Pradhan Mantri PM-KISAN launched in 2019 as a Central Sector scheme
Kisan Samman Provides income support of Rs. 6,000 per year in three equal installments to all
Nidhi Scheme land holding farmer families
(PM-KISAN) Definition of family for the scheme includes husband, wife and minor children
State Governments and UT administrations identify the beneficiaries
Funds are directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries
13 National Implemented by: National Bee Board (NBB)
Beekeeping & Launched as a part of Atma Nirbhar Bharat package in 2020
Honey Mission Objective: Achieve the goal of 'Sweet Revolution' through promotion &
(NBHM) development of scientific beekeeping in India
Three mini missions:
Increase crop production through pollination by scientific beekeeping
Focus on post-harvest management of beehive products
Research and technology generation for different regions and agro-climatic
conditions
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80% of subscribers opted for Rs 1000 pension plan and 13% for Rs 5000 pension
plan.
44% are female subscribers while 56% are male subscribers.
45% are aged between 18 and 25 years.
19 India IIPDF Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme.
Infrastructure Its objective is to aid the development of quality PPP projects in the Central and
Project State Governments.
Development Fund
It is administered by the Empowered Institution and supported by the Public
(IIPDF) Scheme
Private Partnership Cell of the DEA.
The IIPDF corpus comprises an initial budgetary outlay of Rs. 100 Crore by the
Ministry of Finance.
The funding under IIPDF Scheme is in addition to the already operational
Scheme for Financial Support to PPPs in Infrastructure (VGF Scheme).
The Empowered Institution selects projects for which project development costs
will be funded, sets terms and conditions for funding, and sets milestones for
disbursing and recovering funding.
Ministry of Education
20 National NEAT 3.0 is a platform for providing Ed-Tech solutions and courses to students.
Educational Objective is to enhance the employability of youth and bridge the digital divide.
Alliance for Provides better learning outcomes and skill development through the use of
Technology (NEAT artificial intelligence for customized learning experience.
3.0)
21 Vidyanjali 2.0 About Vidyanjali:
Portal a) Initiative taken by the Ministry of Education.
b) Objective: To strengthen Schools through community and private sector
involvement in schools across the country.
Initiative would connect schools with varied volunteers from the Indian
Diaspora.
22 EK Bharat EK Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative launched in 2015.
Shreshtha Bharat Objective: promote unity, mutual understanding, and bonding between people
initiative of different States/UTs in India.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education.
Other objectives: create unity in diversity, promote national integration,
showcase rich heritage and culture, establish long-term engagements, and
promote learning between States.
23 Samagra Shiksha An overarching programme for the school education sector extending from pre-
Abhiyan school to class 12.
It subsumes the three erstwhile Schemes of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA),
Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
24 NIPUN Bharat National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and
Numeracy
By Ministry of Education
Objective: For ensuring that every child in the country necessarily attains
foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) by the end of Grade 3, by 2026-27.
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25 WEST initiative – The program is focused on empowering women with STEM backgrounds to
Women in contribute to the science, technology, and innovation ecosystem.
Engineering, I-STEM is a national web portal for sharing research equipment/facilities.
Science, and The program provides a separate platform for women researchers, scientists, and
Technology
technologists to pursue research in basic or applied sciences.
Aimed at promoting collaborations in R&D and technological innovation
between academia and industry.
26 Scheme for Launched by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Residential Provides quality education to students of SC Category.
Education for Admission in Class 9 and Class 11 of CBSE affiliated private schools.
Students in Goal is to make easy delivery of Governmental initiatives and schemes.
Targeted Areas
(SHRESHTA)
27 YUVA 2.0 – Prime YUVA 2.0 is the Prime Minister's Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors.
Minister’s SchemeIt is an author mentorship program aimed at promoting reading, writing, and
for Mentoringbook culture in India.
Young Authors The scheme is for young and budding authors below 30 years of age.
It is launched in 22 different Indian languages and English.
The Ministry of Education is the implementing agency.
28 Indian Knowledge IKS initiative under MoE and AICTE, New Delhi.
Systems (IKS) Promotes interdisciplinary research on IKS and its societal applications.
Initiative Aims to preserve and disseminate IKS for further research.
Spreads traditional knowledge in Arts, Agriculture, Sciences, Engineering,
Architecture, Management, Economics, etc.
Ministry of Skill Development
29 IndiaSkills 2021 IndiaSkills 2021 Nationals Initiative showcases highest standards of skilling.
Nationals Held every two years.
Initiative Nodal Agency: National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
Provides a platform for young people to showcase their talent at national and
international levels.
Skill areas include beauty therapy, cyber security, floristry, robot system
integration, cloud computing, water technology, painting and decorating, health
and social care, among others.
30 Skills Acquisition It is a World Bank loan assisted project.
and Knowledge Objective: To strengthen institutional mechanisms for skill development and
Awareness for increase access to quality and market-relevant training for youth across the
Livelihood country.
Promotion
(SANKALP)
31 SCALE app SCALE (Skill Certification Assessment for Leather Employees) app
provides a one-stop solution for the skilling, learning, assessment, and
employment needs of the leather industry.
Android App SCALE was developed by Leather Skill Sector Council to
change the way skill development programs are designed and delivered to
trainees in leather industry.
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Allows people from all age groups interested in leather craft to access online live
streamed classes from the state-of-the-art studio at its office.
32 PM Promotion of Objective: Reduce chemical fertiliser use in agriculture and subsidy burden.
Alternate Funding: Financed by savings from existing fertiliser subsidy.
Nutrients for 50% subsidy savings passed as grant to states.
Agriculture 70% grant used for asset creation related to alternate fertilisers adoption.
Management
Yojana (PM Remaining 30% grant used for incentivising farmers, panchayats, SHGs, and
PRANAM) awareness generation.
33 PM- Kisan Intention: Converting more than 3.3 lakh fertilizer retail shops into PM- Kisan
Samruddhi Samruddhi Kendras (PM-KSK) in phased manner.
Kendras (PM- Functions of PM-KSK:
KSK) a) Supplying agri-inputs like seeds, fertilisers, and farm implements.
b) Providing testing facilities for soil, seeds and fertilisers.
Ministry Of Food Processing Industry
34 Pradhan Mantri PMFME Scheme is launched by Ministry of Food Processing Industries under
Formalisation of One District One Product (ODOP) brands.
Micro foodIt has four components: support for food processing units, marketing and
processing branding support, support for common infrastructure development, capacity
Enterprises
(PMFME) Scheme building and research.
Ministry of Food Processing Industries has partnered with NAFED to develop
10 brands of selected ODOPs.
Some of the brands developed under ODOP concept are: Amrit Phal for amla
juice, Cori Gold brand for coriander powder, Brand Kashmiri Mantra for spices,
Brand Madhu Mantra for honey, Whole wheat cookies under brand Dilli Bakes,
and Brand Somdana for millets.
Ministry Of Labour and Employment
35 Pradhan Mantri PM-SYM is a pension scheme for unorganised workers.
Shram Yogi Workers between the age of 18-40 years with a monthly income of Rs 15,000 or
Maandhan (PM- less are eligible.
SYM) pension Workers should not be covered under NPS, ESIC or EPFO and should not be an
scheme
income tax payer.
It offers a minimum assured pension of Rs 3,000 per month after attaining the
age of 60 years.
In case of death, the spouse of the beneficiary is entitled to receive 50% of the
pension received by the beneficiary as family pension.
Ministry Of Rural Development
36 Digital India Land DILRMP is a Central Sector scheme.
Records It emerged after the merger of two schemes: Computerisation of Land Records
Modernisation (CLR) and Strengthening of Revenue Administration and Updating of Land
Programme Records (SRA&ULR).
(DILRMP)
The scheme is implemented by the Department of Land Resources under the
Ministry of Rural Development.
The objective of the scheme is to develop an appropriate Integrated Land
Information Management System (ILIMS) across the country.
The major components of the scheme are: computerization of land records,
survey/re-survey, and computerization of registration.
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Alternative Aimed at utilizing more than 62 million metric tonnes of waste generated
Towards annually in India.
Affordable Objectives: reduce import dependence, create jobs, and reduce vehicular
Transportation emissions and pollution.
Nodal ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
NITI Aayog
63 SAMRIDH Initiative is a partnership between Atal Innovation Mission (AIM),
Sustainable Access
to Markets and NITI Aayog, and US Agency for International Development (USAID).
Resources for
The initiative aims to combine public and philanthropic funds with commercial
Innovative capital to create and rapidly scale market-based health solutions.
Delivery of
Healthcare The approach used is Blended finance.
(SAMRIDH) The objective is to improve access to affordable and quality healthcare for
Initiative vulnerable populations in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and rural and tribal regions.
It is implemented by a Technical Support Unit managed by IPE Global.
64 Shoonya Shoonya Campaign is a consumer awareness campaign.
Campaign The objective of the campaign is to reduce air pollution by promoting the use of
electric vehicles (EVs) for ride-hailing and deliveries.
The National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Energy Storage
(Part III) report was launched during the Shoonya Campaign.
Important State Government schemes
65 Bahini Scheme Bahini Scheme is launched by the government of Sikkim.
It aims to provide free and safe sanitary pads to secondary and senior secondary
school going girls.
The objective of the scheme is to prevent school dropout of girls and raise
awareness about menstrual hygiene.
66 AI-based iRASTE is an AI-based project.
‘Intelligent It aims to improve road safety in Nagpur, India.
Solutions for Road The project uses technology and engineering solutions to reduce the number of
Safety through road accidents.
Technology and
Engineering’ It is being implemented in collaboration with the Maharashtra State Road
(iRASTE) Development Corporation (MSRDC).
The project includes the installation of smart surveillance cameras, automated
speed violation detection systems, and intelligent traffic management systems.
The system will use AI algorithms to analyze real-time data and predict potential
accidents, which will help authorities take preventive measures.
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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1 China-Indian News: India is the lone absentee at China’s Indian Ocean forum of 19 countries.
Ocean Region China-Indian Ocean Region Forum organized by China International
Forum Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).
Theme: Shared Development: Theory and Practice from the Perspective of the
Blue Economy.
Attended by representatives from 19 countries: Indonesia, Pakistan,
Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Afghanistan, Iran, Oman,
South Africa, Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Seychelles, Madagascar,
Mauritius, Djibouti, and Australia.
India was absent from the forum.
Australia and Maldives released statements stating that they did not participate
officially.
2 SASEC Program – Brings together Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri
The South Asia Lanka in a project-based partnership.
Subregional Aims to promote regional prosperity, improve economic opportunities, and build
Economic a better quality of life for the people of the subregion.
Cooperation
3 I2U2 News: I2U2 grouping of India, Israel, UAE, US expresses commitment to
deepen economic partnership.
First summit held in July 2022.
These nations share common global issues including food security and defense.
Formed under International Forum for Economic Cooperation in October 2021.
Referred to as "West Asian Quad" earlier by UAE ambassador.
Official name is now I2U2, where I stands for India and Israel, and U stands for
the US and UAE.
4 ASEAN-India News: India holds first defence ministers’ dialogue with ASEAN.
Dialogue ASEAN-India Dialogue is a partnership established in 1992.
It became a full dialogue partnership in 1995, a summit-level partnership in
2002, and a strategic partnership in 2012.
India held its first defense ministers' dialogue with ASEAN in 2022.
A special ASEAN-India foreign ministers' meeting was held in 2022 to
commemorate the 30th anniversary of the dialogue relations.
Discussions were held on COVID-19, trade, connectivity, education, and
capacity building.
The year 2022 has been designated as the ASEAN-India Friendship Year.
5 Eastern Economic News: India invited to participate in Arctic segment of Eastern Economic Forum
Forum in Vladivostok
EEF established by Vladimir Putin in 2015 to attract foreign investments in
Russia's Far East (RFE).
380 agreements worth 3.6 trillion roubles signed in 2021, a significant increase
from 217 in 2017.
Almost 2,729 investment projects planned in RFE in 2022, mostly focusing on
infrastructure, transportation, mineral excavations, construction, industry, and
agriculture.
India invited to participate in Arctic segment of EEF in Vladivostok.
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EEF aims to connect Far East with Asia Pacific, increase foreign investments in
RFE, ensure availability of personnel to procure and supply abundant materials,
and act as a gateway to Asian trading routes.
Strategic geography of RFE connects Russia to Asian trading routes and
facilitates fast modernization of various cities such as Vladivostok, Khabarovsk,
Ulan-Ude, and Chita.
6 East Asia Summit East Asia Summit (EAS) established in 2005.
A premier forum in Asia-Pacific region for security and defence issues.
Members: 10 ASEAN members + Australia, China, Japan, India, New Zealand,
Republic of Korea, Russia, and US.
India is a founding member of EAS.
6 priority areas of regional cooperation within EAS framework: Environment
and Energy, Education, Finance, Global Health Issues and Pandemic Diseases,
Natural Disaster Management, ASEAN Connectivity.
Members represent 54% of the world population and 58% of the global GDP.
7 Nord Stream 2 Nord Stream 2 is a natural gas pipeline between Russia and Germany.
8 Black Sea Grain News: Russia re-joined the Black Sea Grain deal.
Initiative Deal aims to tackle escalating food prices due to supply chain disruptions from
Russian actions
UN and Turkey brokered the deal
Safe maritime humanitarian corridor provided for Ukrainian exports,
particularly food grains
Deal initially stipulated for 120 days with an option to extend or terminate
Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) established comprising senior representatives
from Russia, Turkey, Ukraine and the UN for oversight and coordination
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Members include the US, Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Japan,
the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the European
Commission.
The alliance aims to develop strategic opportunities and catalyze investment
from governments and the private sector.
MSP will focus on the supply chains of minerals such as Cobalt, Nickel,
Lithium, and rare earth minerals.
India is not part of MSP.
13 Partners in the News: India attends 'Blue Pacific' event as observer in US’
Blue Pacific (PBP) Launched by: US, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
initiative Objective: To support Pacific islands and bolster Pacific regionalism.
Priority areas: Climate crisis, connectivity, transportation, maritime security,
health, prosperity, and education.
India attended as an observer.
14 India-Brazil-South News: New York hosts the 10th IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission
Africa (IBSA) conference.
It is a trilateral forum that focuses on global and regional political issues.
The group was formalized and named the IBSA Dialogue Forum through the
Brasilia Declaration in 2003.
IBSA also collaborates on concrete areas/projects through fourteen working
groups and six People-to-People Forums.
IBSA Fund was established in 2004 to support projects in developing countries.
The 10th IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission conference was held in New
York.
15 Pen-Plus Strategy Africa has adopted a new strategy called Pen-Plus Strategy.
The strategy aims to boost access to diagnosis, treatment and care for severe
non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at first-level referral health facilities.
Pen-Plus is specifically designed to address the access gap in the treatment and
care of patients with chronic and severe NCDs.
The strategy is regional in nature and is focused on the African continent.
16 Bay of Bengal News: 5th BIMSTEC Summit hosted in virtual mode by Sri Lanka in March,
Initiative for 2022.
Multi-Sectoral 7 member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar,
Technical and
Thailand.
Economic
Cooperation Formed in 1997 (BISTEC) by Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand.
Myanmar joined later.
Nepal and Bhutan joined in 2004.
Sector-driven organization for shared growth and cooperation in Bay of Bengal
region.
India responsible for transportation, tourism, Counter-Terrorism, Disaster
Management, Energy.
5th summit held in virtual mode by Sri Lanka in March 2022.
Adopted BIMSTEC Charter, Masterplan for transport connectivity in Bay of
Bengal region.
Chair of BIMSTEC is Sri Lanka.
Working mechanism: policy making through summits and ministerial
meetings, operational meetings of senior officials held twice a year.
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27 -20 Anti- News: G20 anti-corruption working group meeting in Gurgaon concludes.
Corruption It was established in June 2010 at the Toronto Summit of G20.
Working Group Objective: to prepare recommendations for G20 leaders on combating
corruption.
28 Business 20 (B20)B20 is the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business community.
It aims to deliver policy recommendations to spur economic growth and
development.
The recent Conference on B20 Indonesia Global Dialogue was held in New
Delhi by DPIIT in partnership with CII.
The conference aimed to ensure that Indian perspectives are well represented in
B20 Indonesia's policy recommendations.
29 Network Network Readiness Index 2022 report prepared by Portulans Institute.
Readiness Index, India ranked 61 out of 131 countries, up by 6 ranks.
2022 NRI report maps network readiness in 4 pillars: Technology, People,
Governance, and Impact.
India has greater network readiness than expected based on its income level.
30 New Development NDB established in 2014 by BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China,
Bank (NDB) and South Africa)
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37 Mangrove Alliance News: India Joins Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) at COP27.
for Climate (MAC) Led by UAE and Indonesia
Objective: educate on role of mangroves in curbing global warming
Members: UAE, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, Japan, Spain
Voluntary alliance with no real checks and balances
Parties decide own commitments and deadlines for planting and restoring
mangroves
Members share expertise and support in researching, managing, and protecting
coastal areas
38 Civil Air News: Goa hosts Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation Asia Pacific
Navigation Conference.
Services Founded in 1996
Organisation Representative body for air traffic control companies
(CANSO)
Represents ANSPs' interests
HQ: Amsterdam Airport, Netherlands
Members responsible for supporting 85% of world air traffic
Members share information, develop policies to improve air navigation services
Represents members' views in regulatory and industry forums
Official observer status in ICAO
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39 Group 24 (G24) G-24 is a group of developing countries that was established in 1971.
G-24 membership is not strictly limited to 24 countries, and it actually had 28
full members as of December 2020.
Its goal is to work together to coordinate the positions of developing countries
on international monetary and development finance issues.
40 ANZUS treaty News: AmCham CEO says the ANZUS Treaty is a “very symbolic” and
“instrumental” part of the military alliance between the United States and
Australia.
ANZUS or ANZUS Treaty: Australia, New Zealand, United States Security
Treaty
It is the 1951 collective security non-binding agreement between Australia and
New Zealand.
Objective: To cooperate on military matters in the Pacific Ocean region.
41 International Big News: PM launches Big Cats Alliance to keep illegal wildlife trade in check.
Cat Alliance For protection and conservation of major big cats
(IBCA) Open to 97 'range' countries and interested nations/orgs
Governance structure: General Assembly, Council, Secretariat
Funding: $100 million grant assistance from India for first 5 years
Future funding through membership fees, contributions from institutions and
private sector.
42 Global Biofuels News: India, US And Brazil To Lead The Charge For Sustainable Biofuels With
Alliance Global Biofuel Alliance
Aim: facilitate cooperation and use of sustainable biofuels
Emphasis on strengthening markets, global trade, policy development, and
technical support
Collaboration with existing regional and international agencies such as CEM
Biofuture Platform, Mission Innovation Bioenergy initiatives, and GBEP.
43 Global Bioenergy News: India, US And Brazil To Lead The Charge For Sustainable Biofuels With
Partnership Global Biofuel Allia
(GBEP)
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44 Ambition on News: At COP27 18 countries join group on cryosphere loss, see it as major
Melting Ice (AMI) contributor to sea-level rise.
Group AMI Group formed at COP27 with 18 founding members
Objective: Ensure understanding of impacts of cryosphere loss globally
Founding members: Chile, Iceland, Peru, Czech Republic, Nepal, Finland,
Senegal, Kyrgyz Republic, Samoa, Georgia, Switzerland, New Zealand,
Monaco, Vanuatu, Sweden, Tanzania, Liberia, Norway, Mexico
Declaration issued: climate change causing dramatic changes in global
cryosphere, worsened by greenhouse gas emissions
Suggestion: rapid and emergency-scale decrease in global greenhouse gas
emissions to limit warming to 1.5°C.
45 Global Shield News: Global shield against climate risks for loss and damage launched at
Against Climate COP27.
Risks Joint initiative of G7 and V20.
Objective: provide pre-arranged financial support during climate disasters.
Envisioned as a social protection and insurance-based finance mechanism.
Funding: Global Shield Financing Facility by World Bank Group.
46 Middle East Green News: Saudi Arabia commits $2.5bn to Middle East Green Initiative over next
Initiative (MGI) 10 years
Summit MGI is a Saudi Arabia-led initiative to drive unified climate action in the Middle
East region.
Aim: To provide an ambitious and clearly defined roadmap for regional climate
action.
Objectives: To plant 50 billion trees across the Middle East region and reduce
carbon emissions by more than 10%.
Inaugural MGI Summit hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2021.
The 2022 summit is being hosted on the sidelines of COP 27 in Sharm El-Sheikh,
Egypt.
47 Five Eyes alliance News: US Committee Mulling To Expand 'Five Eyes' to Include India, Japan,
South Korea: Report
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49 Green Fins Hub News: UNEP launches new worldwide digital platform to encourage sustainable
marine tourism.
UNEP and UK-based Reef-World Foundation launch Green Fins Hub.
First-ever global marine tourism industry platform.
Aims to encourage sustainable marine tourism practices.
The platform offers enhanced and global membership for participating dive and
snorkel operators to conserve the marine environment.
Green Fins is a conservation management approach implemented by Reef-
World Foundation and UNEP.
The objective is to protect coral reefs through environmentally friendly
guidelines promoting sustainable diving and snorkelling.
Provides internationally recognised environmental standards for marine tourism
and its assessment system measures compliance.
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50 Global Alliance for IRENA and industry leaders launch Global Alliance for Industry
Industry Decarbonization
Decarbonization Objectives: accelerate net-zero ambitions, decarbonization of industrial value
chains, provide a platform for collaboration, strengthen dialogue and coordinate
action
Formed under the Bali Declaration during IRENA’s Investment Forum on
Energy Transitions
Founding members: Siemens Energy, Enel Green Power, TAQA Arabia, JSW,
Tata Steel, Sable Chemicals, Repsol, Equinor
Around 25% of global GDP is produced by the industrial sector, but it also emits
around 28% of Green House Gas emissions.
51 World Summit of News: Meghalaya Enterprise Architecture (MeghEA) Project won best project
the Information award at United Nation’s World Summit on the Information Society Forum
Society (WSIS) 2022.
2022 WSIS is the world’s largest annual gathering of ICT for development
community.
Organized by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD with WSIS Action Line
facilitators.
Objectives: multi-stakeholder cooperation and exchange of information for
achieving SDGs through ICT.
Theme for 2022: “ICTs for Well-Being, Inclusion and Resilience: WSIS
Cooperation for Accelerating Progress on the SDGs”.
52 First Movers News: Centre started identifying PSUs operating in carbon-intensive sectors that
Coalition can be initiated into joining the 'First Movers Coalition'.
Coalition launched by the US President and WEF at COP26.
Aim is to decarbonize heavy industry and long-distance transport sectors.
Target sectors include aluminium, aviation, chemicals, concrete, shipping, steel,
and trucking.
These sectors account for 30% of global emissions and may reach over 50%
without clean tech innovation.
53 United Nations News: India has been elected to the UN Statistical Commission for a four-year
Statistical term.
Commission Established in 1947, highest body of the global statistical system.
Sets statistical standards, develops concepts and methods, and oversees
implementation.
Oversees the work of the UN Statistics Division and is a Functional Commission
of the UN Economic and Social Council.
Composed of 24 member countries elected based on equitable geographical
distribution.
Headquarters in New York, USA.
India was last a member in 2004 and is returning after a two-decade gap.
54 United Nations News: United Nations Security Council(UNSC) 1267 Committee has listed
Security Council Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist.
(UNSC) 1267 Committee maintains list of terrorist groups affiliated with Al Qaeda and ISIS.
Committee Any UN member state can propose adding names to the list.
Committee comprises all permanent and non-permanent members of the UNSC.
Procedure involves proposal submission, objection period, technical hold, and
resolution within 6-9 months.
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