GS2 · Polity · Governance · IR · 10
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthMains Why in news: The Hindu highlights the challenges in India's 'health for all' campaign, noting that healthcare spending remains below 2% of GDP despite rising infectious diseases and funding shortfalls.
India's healthcare budgetary allocation is currently below 2% of its GDP. The system faces compounding pressures from the withdrawal of US funding for health projects, antimicrobial resistance, and poor air quality.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactIndia's healthcare budgetary allocation is below 2% of GDP
- S&TAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is identified as a significant threat to India's public health
- FactWithdrawal of US funding for health projects has created a funding shortfall for the Indian government
Mains angle
Q. Critically analyze the structural and fiscal barriers hindering India's progress toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) despite existing policy frameworks.
- Fiscal constraint: Low public health expenditure as a percentage of GDP limiting infrastructure expansion
- External dependency: Vulnerability of health projects to the withdrawal of international funding
- Environmental-health nexus: Impact of poor air quality and antimicrobial resistance on public health outcomes
Keywords: Universal Health Coverage · Fiscal Federalism · Antimicrobial Resistance · Public Health Infrastructure · Funding Deficit
GS2International Relations › Policies of other countries affecting IndiaMains Why in news: The Hindu analyzed India's diplomatic headwinds for 2026, highlighting the destabilizing effects of Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariffs and shifting policies on Russia and China.
India faced challenges from Trump's altered policies on Russia and China and the rise of ultra-right politicians in Europe and Asia. Despite these, India improved relations with Canada, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, and made progress in ties with the Taliban.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactIndia reported improved diplomatic relations with Canada, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives in 2025.
- FactIndia reported progress in diplomatic ties with the Taliban.
- FactThe Russian war in Ukraine is cited as a continuing factor impacting India's economy.
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the challenges posed by shifting global trade policies and the rise of conservative movements on India's multi-aligned foreign policy.
- Trade volatility: Impact of 'Liberation Day' tariffs on India's export-led growth and supply chain stability
- Geopolitical realignment: Balancing ties with Russia and China amidst shifting US-led global order
- Regional diplomacy: Managing neighborhood relations amidst escalating tensions with Pakistan
Keywords: Multi-alignment · Trade protectionism · Geopolitical volatility · Strategic autonomy · Diplomatic headwinds
Why in news: N. Saravanan, a resident of a rehabilitation camp in Tamil Nadu, called for a special policy intervention to address the citizenship status and legal rights of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India.
The affected population of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India is estimated at 3,000 to 8,000. These refugees face difficulties in obtaining Indian passports due to adverse police verification reports and lack a clear policy framework defining their legal rights.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactEstimated population of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India: 3,000 to 8,000
- PlaceMinnur village, Ambur taluk, Tirupattur district, Tamil Nadu: Location of a rehabilitation camp for refugees
- FactChildren born to refugee-Indian couples are currently being denied Indian citizenship under the existing framework
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the legal and humanitarian challenges faced by Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India and suggest a framework for their integration and citizenship status.
- Legal ambiguity: Lack of a specific policy framework defining the rights and citizenship status of long-term refugees
- Administrative hurdle: Adverse police verification reports obstructing the issuance of Indian passports
- Democratic exclusion: Lack of electoral history and formal legal status preventing participation in the democratic process
Keywords: Refugee rights · Citizenship status · Policy intervention · Legal framework · Humanitarian concerns
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthPrelims + Mains Why in news: A Lancet study suggests that universal depression screening at primary healthcare levels, specifically Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, could significantly improve public health and economic outcomes in India.
Researchers from PGIMER, NIMHANS, and the National Health Systems Resource Centre modeled the feasibility of a two-step assessment approach for depression. The study found that screening individuals aged 20 and above yields greater health gains and improved cost-effectiveness compared to screening those aged 30 and above.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactA two-step assessment approach could reduce depression prevalence by 2.4% and incidence by 5.1% among adults aged 30 and above.
- BodyPGIMER and NIMHANS are key institutions involved in the mental health modeling study.
- SchemeAyushman Arogya Mandirs are the primary healthcare centers identified for integrating depression screening.
- FactScreening individuals aged 20 and above was associated with greater health gains and improved cost-effectiveness.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how integrating mental health screening into primary healthcare can mitigate the socio-economic burden of non-communicable diseases in India.
- Economic productivity: Reducing depression prevalence to mitigate workforce absenteeism and long-term disability costs
- Clinical synergy: Addressing the comorbidity between mental health and chronic conditions like diabetes
- Accessibility gap: Overcoming infrastructure limitations in rural primary care for specialized mental health screening
Keywords: Universal screening · Primary healthcare · Cost-effectiveness · Non-communicable diseases · Public health outcomes
GS2Polity & Constitution › Elections, ECI & electoral reformsPrelims Why in news: The State government directed District Collectors to open help desks at village offices to assist voters omitted from the electoral roll or on the 'unmapped' list.
The State government directed District Collectors to establish help desks at village offices. These desks will be staffed by two officers and supported by Anganwadi, ASHA, and Kudumbasree workers for field visits.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyElection Commission of India (ECI) is the body that declined the state's request to extend the enumeration form deadline
- FactHelp desks will be staffed by two officers
- FactAnganwadi, ASHA, and Kudumbasree workers will assist with field visits to specific regions
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of inclusive electoral roll management in ensuring the universal right to franchise in a diverse democracy like India.
- Logistical bottleneck: Difficulty in identifying and mapping 'unmapped' voters in remote rural areas
- Administrative coordination: Balancing state-level outreach with Election Commission of India's rigid enumeration deadlines
Keywords: Universal Adult Franchise · Electoral Roll · Inclusive Governance · Administrative Outreach
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthPrelims + Mains Why in news: A US CDC report on a rare rabies transmission from an organ donor to a recipient has sparked concerns regarding the screening protocols in Kerala's deceased donor organ donation program.
The Kerala Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994, currently mandates medical evaluations but lacks a specific mandate for rabies testing. K-SOTTO, a critical care expert organization, has advocated for enhanced donor risk mapping and traceability to ensure patient safety.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyUS Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Agency that reported the rabies transmission case.
- Act / BillKerala Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994: State legislation governing organ donation protocols.
- FactK-SOTTO: A critical care expert organization emphasizing donor risk mapping and traceability.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the institutional and regulatory requirements for ensuring safety and traceability in organ transplantation programs in India.
- Regulatory gap: Absence of specific mandates for rare zoonotic disease screening in state organ donation acts
- Economic barrier: High operational costs and financial burdens on families hindering equitable access to transplantation
- Trust deficit: Need for robust traceability systems to maintain public confidence in deceased donor programs
Keywords: Traceability · Zoonotic transmission · Regulatory framework · Patient safety · Public trust
GS2Polity & Constitution › Elections, ECI & electoral reformsPrelims Why in news: The Chief Electoral Officer of Kerala acknowledged that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter roll has scattered family members across different polling stations, and promised to regroup them.
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) aims to limit the number of voters per polling station to 1,200. The Election Commission of India (EC) and the Chief Electoral Officer of Kerala are addressing the resulting logistical issues regarding voter tracking.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactSIR target: Limit voters per polling station to 1,200
- BodyChief Electoral Officer (Kerala) is the authority addressing the SIR voter roll issues
- BodyElection Commission of India (EC) oversees the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the logistical and administrative challenges faced by the Election Commission of India in maintaining accurate voter rolls during intensive revision processes.
- Data integrity: Difficulty in tracking voter movements and family units across dispersed polling stations
- Logistical bottleneck: Balancing the 1,200-voter-per-station limit with the need for localized voter clustering
Keywords: voter roll · Special Intensive Revision · electoral logistics · voter tracking · polling station management
GS2Polity & Constitution › Elections, ECI & electoral reformsPrelims Why in news: The Election Commission of India (ECI) released the integrated draft electoral rolls for Assam following a Special Revision, highlighting the deletion of over 10 lakh names.
The ECI released the draft electoral rolls for Assam showing a total of 2,51,09,754 voters. A total of 10.56 lakh names were deleted due to death, shifting, or multiple entries.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactTotal voters in Assam's integrated draft electoral rolls: 2,51,09,754
- FactNumber of names deleted from Assam's draft electoral rolls: 10.56 lakh
- FactDeadline for filing claims and objections: January 22, 2026
- FactDate of publication for final electoral rolls: February 10, 2026
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of periodic electoral roll revisions in ensuring the integrity of the democratic process and the challenges in identifying disenfranchised voters.
- Data integrity: Ensuring accuracy of voter lists against shifting populations and mortality rates
- Inclusionary gap: Addressing the continued disenfranchisement of specific groups like D-Voters
- Procedural transparency: Publicly accessible windows for claims and objections to ensure democratic participation
Keywords: Electoral Roll · Disenfranchisement · Special Revision · Democratic Integrity · Voter Awareness
The Hindu ↗+2 more on this story Why in news: Saudi Arabia led the GCC in deporting over 13,000 Indian workers in 2025 for visa overstays and labor regulation breaches.
Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain deported thousands of Indian workers in 2025. The majority of deported individuals were low-skilled laborers in construction, domestic work, and caregiving roles.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactSaudi Arabia led the GCC in Indian deportations in 2025.
- FactOver 13,000 Indian workers were deported by Saudi Arabia in 2025.
- FactDeportations were primarily due to visa overstays, lack of valid permits, or labor regulation breaches.
- FactRecruitment agents in India were identified as a factor in misrepresenting job roles and salaries.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the challenges faced by Indian migrant workers in the Gulf and suggest measures to ensure their protection against exploitation and illegal deportation.
- Regulatory arbitrage: Discrepancies between Indian recruitment agency promises and actual Gulf labor conditions
- Labor vulnerability: Lack of legal recourse for low-skilled workers in domestic and construction sectors
- Diplomatic oversight: Need for bilateral frameworks to monitor recruitment agency transparency and worker welfare
Keywords: Migrant workers · Labor exploitation · Bilateral cooperation · Recruitment transparency · Worker vulnerability
GS2Social Justice › Vulnerable sections (SC/ST, minorities, disabled, elderly, children)Prelims Why in news: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 to 20 children for exceptional achievements in various fields.
The awards were presented at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on December 27, 2025. The honors recognize achievements in six specific categories: Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology.
Prelims pointers (4)
- SchemePradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: An annual award conferred by the President of India.
- Fact20 children were awarded in the 2025 cycle.
- FactAward categories include Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology.
- PlaceVigyan Bhawan, New Delhi: Venue for the award ceremony.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of recognizing and incentivizing youth achievements in diverse fields as a tool for nation-building and social empowerment.
- Incentive structure: Transitioning from mere recognition to sustainable support for young achievers
- Social integration: Promoting diverse fields like Art & Culture and Social Service to foster inclusive national identity
Keywords: Nation-building · Youth Empowerment · Social Recognition · Incentivization · Holistic Development
GS3 · Economy · S&T · Environment · Security · 13
Why in news: The Indian government passed the SHANTI Act, 2025, to allow private companies to participate in the nuclear sector while granting blanket RTI exemptions for nuclear-related information.
The SHANTI Act, 2025 replaces two existing laws to provide a single license for private entities to build, operate, or decommission nuclear power plants and fabricate nuclear fuel. The Act includes provisions for private participation but faces criticism over transparency and environmental risks like groundwater contamination.
Prelims pointers (3)
- Act / BillSHANTI Act, 2025: Enables private sector participation in India's nuclear power sector.
- FactThe Act provides a single license for building, operating, decommissioning plants, and fabricating nuclear fuel.
- FactThe Act grants blanket exemptions from the Right to Information (RTI) for nuclear facility information.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the trade-offs between promoting private investment in the nuclear energy sector and ensuring public transparency and environmental safety in India.
- Transparency-Security Paradox: Balancing public's right to information against national security concerns in nuclear infrastructure.
- Environmental Liability: Risks of radioactive groundwater contamination and the technical complexities of decommissioning private-sector plants.
- Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring private entities adhere to stringent safety protocols without the direct oversight of state-run bodies.
Keywords: Nuclear Governance · Public-Private Partnership · Right to Information · Environmental Impact Assessment · Nuclear Decommissioning
Why in news: FSSAI is replacing the mandatory BIS certification for packaged drinking water in Tamil Nadu with a stricter testing framework effective January 1st.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is introducing a new testing scheme for packaged drinking water and mineral water. The move replaces the previous mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification in Tamil Nadu.
Prelims pointers (4)
- BodyFSSAI: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
- BodyBIS: Bureau of Indian Standards
- FactNew testing framework for packaged drinking water becomes effective on January 1st
- PlaceTamil Nadu: State where the mandatory BIS certification is being replaced
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the trade-offs between stringent food safety standards and the operational viability of small-scale manufacturing units in India.
- Compliance burden: Increased operational costs for manufacturers due to more frequent and rigorous testing requirements
- Monitoring gap: Potential lack of sufficient accredited testing laboratories to ensure consistent quality oversight
- Regulatory shift: Transition from certification-based oversight to testing-based compliance frameworks
Keywords: Regulatory compliance · Public health safety · Operational costs · Quality assurance · Standardization
GS3Economy › Growth, inflation & macro indicatorsPrelims + Mains Why in news: India achieved an 8.2% GDP growth rate in Q2 of FY2025 despite external shocks like currency volatility and intensified US tariffs.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) identified a 'goldilocks' phase characterized by low inflation and robust growth. The government introduced GST 2.0 to simplify indirect taxes and provided income tax relief to middle-class earners.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactIndia's GDP growth rate for the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025 was 8.2%
- Act / BillGST 2.0 was implemented to simplify the indirect tax structure
- Intl. orgIndia signed free trade agreements with New Zealand, Oman, and the UK
- FactThe Indian rupee faced pressure due to the strength of the US dollar
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the factors contributing to India's resilient economic growth in 2025 despite intensifying global trade barriers and currency volatility.
- Trade-policy friction: Impact of intensified US tariffs on Indian export competitiveness
- Fiscal-monetary synergy: Effectiveness of GST 2.0 and income tax relief in sustaining domestic demand
- External vulnerability: Managing rupee depreciation amidst dollar strength and global uncertainty
Keywords: Goldilocks economy · Fiscal consolidation · Trade diversification · Currency volatility · Indirect tax simplification
Why in news: Karnataka's Forest Minister directed an investigation into KIOCL's plea for ex-post facto forest clearance following objections from the NGO Wildlife First.
Wildlife First is demanding a ₹139.15 crore penalty against Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) for alleged illegal land submergence. The NGO also seeks the formal inclusion of 1,401 hectares of land into the Kudremukh National Park boundaries.
Prelims pointers (4)
- PlaceKudremukh National Park is located in Karnataka
- FactWildlife First demanded a penalty of ₹139.15 crore from KIOCL
- FactThe area sought for inclusion in the park boundaries is 1,401 hectares
- PostThe Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) is the authority tasked with the investigation
Mains angle
Q. Examine the legal and ecological implications of granting ex-post facto forest clearances for industrial activities in protected zones.
- Regulatory loophole: Risks of ex-post facto clearances undermining the Forest Conservation Act's preventive intent
- Ecological integrity: Fragmentation of biodiversity corridors due to unauthorized land submergence in National Parks
- Accountability gap: Challenges in quantifying and recovering environmental damages from industrial entities
Keywords: Ex-post facto clearance · Environmental litigation · Biodiversity conservation · Regulatory oversight · Ecological restoration
GS3Economy › Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)Prelims Why in news: REC Chairperson Jitendra Srivastava reviewed the RDSS progress in Rajasthan to expedite rooftop solar installations and address infrastructure performance.
The Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) is overseeing the revamped distribution sector scheme (RDSS) in Rajasthan. Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, 2.36 lakh consumers have applied for solar installations, with 1.15 lakh modules already installed.
Prelims pointers (4)
- BodyREC: Rural Electrification Corporation is the body overseeing the RDSS scheme.
- SchemePM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: A government initiative for rooftop solar power plants.
- FactRajasthan RDSS progress includes a decrease in aggregate technical and commercial losses.
- Fact2.36 lakh consumers have applied for solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the RDSS and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana contribute to India's energy transition and the reduction of transmission losses.
- Technical efficiency: Reducing aggregate technical and commercial losses through infrastructure upgrades
- Decentralized generation: Transitioning from grid-heavy reliance to consumer-led rooftop solar production
- Subsidy management: Balancing rapid infrastructure deployment with effective subsidy recovery mechanisms
Keywords: Renewable Energy · Grid Stability · Decentralized Power · Infrastructure Development · Energy Transition
GS3Economy › Employment & inclusive growthPrelims + Mains Why in news: Kerala's Labour Minister announced the government will issue a draft notification to revise minimum wages for private hospital staff after management representatives refused to cooperate during talks.
The Kerala government plans to invoke Section 5(1)(b) of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, to directly notify revised wages. Trade unions have already agreed to a 60% wage hike based on the 2013 notification to address rising living costs.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactTrade unions in Kerala's private hospital sector agreed to a 60% wage hike based on the 2013 notification.
- FactSection 5(1)(b) of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948: Enables the government to notify wages directly in cases of non-cooperation or failure of negotiations.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the role of the Minimum Wages Act in ensuring social justice for healthcare workers and the challenges in enforcing wage standards in the private sector.
- Regulatory friction: Conflict between private management autonomy and state-mandated wage floors
- Living wage gap: Inadequacy of 2013 wage benchmarks against contemporary inflation and rising costs of living
Keywords: Minimum Wages Act · Social Justice · Labor Welfare · Regulatory Enforcement · Living Wage
GS3Science & Technology › IT, AI, semiconductors & computingPrelims Why in news: The Kerala General Education department's KITE initiative is hosting camps for 14,804 students to develop weather models using programming and robotic kits.
KITE is the technology arm of the General Education department in Kerala. The initiative involves students creating weather models and digital content using animation software like OpenToonz.
Prelims pointers (4)
- BodyKITE: The technology arm of the General Education department in Kerala
- Fact14,804 students are participating in the Little KITEs camps to develop weather models
- S&TOpenToonz: Animation software used by students for creating digital content
- FactAdvanced robotic kits are scheduled to be available in all schools starting January 2026
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how integrating robotics and programming into school curricula can enhance scientific literacy and foster innovation among students in India.
- Pedagogical shift: Moving from rote learning to project-based learning using robotics
- Infrastructure gap: Disparity in access to high-end robotic kits across rural and urban schools
Keywords: STEM education · Digital literacy · Project-based learning · Robotics in education · Skill development
GS3Internal Security › Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)Prelims Why in news: The Indian Army intensified counter-terrorism operations in Kishtwar and Doda districts to neutralize Pakistani terrorists during the 'Chillai Kalan' winter period.
The Indian Army is establishing temporary bases and surveillance posts in snow-capped areas of Kishtwar and Doda. Operations involve collaboration between the Army, J&K Police, CRPF, SOG, and local forces.
Prelims pointers (2)
- PlaceKishtwar and Doda are districts in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
- BodySOG (Special Operations Group) is a specialized unit of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by security forces in conducting counter-terrorism operations in high-altitude terrains during extreme winter conditions in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Logistical bottleneck: Difficulty in maintaining supply lines and communication in snow-covered high-altitude zones
- Intelligence-led policing: Necessity of real-time data sharing between central forces and local police units
- Terrain-based tactical shift: Transition from conventional patrolling to proactive surveillance in snow-capped areas
Keywords: Counter-terrorism · Internal Security · Intelligence Sharing · High-altitude Warfare · Operational Momentum
GS3Economy › Employment & inclusive growthPrelims Why in news: The Kudumbashree Mission established Technoworld in Kozhikode as Kerala's first women-led IT incubation centre to train women for the digital services sector.
Technoworld is an IT unit of the Kudumbashree Mission in Kozhikode. It started with a ₹3.5-lakh loan and grew into a workspace worth nearly ₹80 lakh, providing training in software tools and workflow management.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactTechnoworld started with a ₹3.5-lakh loan and reached a value of nearly ₹80 lakh.
- PlaceTechnoworld is located in Kozhikode, Kerala.
- BodyKudumbashree Mission is the governing body behind the Technoworld initiative.
- FactTechnoworld has completed projects for motor vehicle offices, hospital kiosks, and the Kozhikode Corporation office.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how community-led initiatives like Kudumbashree can bridge the gender digital divide and foster women's economic empowerment in rural and semi-urban India.
- Skill-gap mitigation: Transitioning homemakers into the digital services economy through localized incubation
- Institutional synergy: Leveraging community-based organizations to execute government data-entry and digital infrastructure projects
Keywords: Digital Inclusion · Women Empowerment · Community-led Development · Skill Development · Economic Participation
GS3Economy › Industry, investment & MSMEsPrelims Why in news: The Karnataka government reported attracting ₹10.27 lakh crore in investments through the Global Investors’ Meet (GIM) in 2025, with a strategic focus on decentralizing investment beyond Bengaluru.
Karnataka secured ₹10.27 lakh crore in investments via the Global Investors’ Meet (GIM) in 2025, with over 60% realized by year-end. FDI inflows reached $6.63 billion, and the state aims to attract ₹7.5 lakh crore by 2030 to create 20 lakh jobs.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactKarnataka attracted ₹10.27 lakh crore in investments through the Global Investors’ Meet (GIM) in 2025.
- FactOver 70% of the investments from GIM 2025 are directed to regions 'Beyond Bengaluru', including North Karnataka.
- FactFDI inflows into Karnataka reached $6.63 billion in 2025.
- FactThe state's investment target for 2030 is ₹7.5 lakh crore to create 20 lakh jobs.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of regional investment decentralization in fostering balanced economic growth and preventing urban over-concentration in states like Karnataka.
- Spatial inequality: Mitigating the 'monocentric' growth model of Bengaluru to reduce infrastructure strain
- Incentive-led growth: Effectiveness of state-led fiscal incentives in attracting private capital to underdeveloped regions
- Employment generation: Linking industrial investment targets to large-scale job creation and skill development
Keywords: Investment Decentralization · FDI Inflows · Regional Disparity · Industrial Policy · Economic Growth
Why in news: The Indian Army and Assam Rifles conducted a joint helicopter-borne troop insertion exercise in the Vijaynagar salient of Arunachal Pradesh to test rapid deployment capabilities.
The drill involved the quick induction of acclimatised troops into a simulated operational area in the Vijaynagar salient. The exercise focused on speed, coordination, and precision to ensure smooth execution under near-real conditions.
Prelims pointers (1)
- FactThe drill involved helicopter-borne troop insertion
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of joint-force exercises and rapid deployment capabilities in maintaining border security in high-altitude regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
- Operational synergy: Enhancing inter-agency coordination between the Indian Army and paramilitary forces
- Logistical hurdle: Challenges of maintaining troop acclimatisation and rapid mobility in high-altitude terrains
Keywords: Rapid deployment · Operational preparedness · Inter-agency coordination · Border security · Troop insertion
GS3Science & Technology › Nuclear & new energy technologyPrelims Why in news: The Ministry of Environment approved the 260-megawatt Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir despite the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.
The project is an extension of the existing Dulhasti Stage-I Hydro Electric Project. It is designed to generate 260 MW of energy annually and allows for the floating of construction tenders.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactDulhasti Stage-II hydropower project capacity: 260 MW
- BodyMinistry of Environment: Body responsible for approving the project
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges of balancing large-scale hydroelectric development with ecological preservation and transboundary water diplomacy in the Himalayan region.
- Transboundary friction: Impact of unilateral project approvals on the Indus Waters Treaty framework
- Ecological risk: Potential impact of large-scale hydro projects on Himalayan riverine biodiversity
- Energy security: Balancing regional power demands with environmental sustainability goals
Keywords: Hydroelectric power · Transboundary water · Indus Waters Treaty · Renewable energy · Environmental clearance
Why in news: The Tamil Nadu government reported a significant accumulation of discarded fishing nets and marine waste along its coastline, prompting the TNPCB to launch the Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiative Project.
Fishing-related debris accounts for nearly half of the litter found on surveyed beaches in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) is launching the Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiative Project to establish recycling centers linked to collection centers.
Prelims pointers (4)
- PlacePudukottai and Villupuram are identified as areas with high marine litter accumulation in Tamil Nadu
- BodyTamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) is the state body overseeing the Fishnet Initiative Project
- SchemeTN-SHORE project is the broader initiative under which the Fishnet Initiative Project will expand
- FactFishing-related debris makes up nearly half of the litter found on surveyed beaches in the state
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the environmental impact of marine litter on coastal ecosystems and evaluate the role of circular economy models in managing fishing waste.
- Infrastructure gap: Lack of specialized recycling facilities for marine-grade polymers and synthetic nets
- Regulatory oversight: Need for mandatory 'Extended Producer Responsibility' (EPR) for commercial fishing gear
- Ecological threat: Entanglement and ingestion risks for marine biodiversity in high-intensity fishing zones
Keywords: Circular Economy · Marine Litter · Coastal Management · Waste Valorization · Pollution Mitigation
Notes are generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer. How these notes are made