GS2 · Polity · Governance · IR · 9
Why in news: New Zealand committed to amending its laws within 18 months of the India-New Zealand FTA implementation to facilitate GI registration for Indian goods like wines and spirits.
New Zealand's commitment aligns with its existing agreement with the European Union regarding GI protection for region-specific products. The FTA implementation is expected to take 7-8 months following the signing of the document.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactNew Zealand to amend laws within 18 months of FTA implementation for GI registration.
- FactExpected timeline for FTA implementation is 7-8 months post-signing.
- BodyGeographical Indication (GI) protection covers products originating from specific regions.
Mains angle
Q. How can the expansion of Geographical Indication (GI) protections under bilateral trade agreements enhance India's export competitiveness and rural livelihoods?
- Market access: Reducing non-tariff barriers for Indian spirits and wines in the Oceania region
- Producer welfare: Direct income enhancement for rural artisans and farmers through protected branding
- Regulatory alignment: Harmonizing GI standards with EU-style protections to facilitate global trade
Keywords: Geographical Indication · Trade Liberalization · Export Competitiveness · Non-tariff Barriers · Bilateral Trade
Why in news: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka to support its recovery from Cyclone Ditwah.
India's relief package consists of $350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and $100 million in grants. The assistance is specifically targeted at sectors most affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactIndia announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka's post-cyclone recovery.
- FactThe package includes $350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and $100 million in grants.
- PlaceCyclone Ditwah impacted Sri Lanka.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of India's 'Neighborhood First' policy in providing humanitarian and developmental assistance to neighboring countries during climate-induced disasters.
- Geopolitical stability: Strengthening bilateral ties through disaster relief to counter external influence
- Climate diplomacy: India's role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean region
- Financial instruments: Use of concessional Lines of Credit as a tool for regional cooperation
Keywords: Neighborhood First · Climate Diplomacy · Lines of Credit · Humanitarian Assistance · Regional Cooperation
Why in news: The Uttar Pradesh government reported a record increase in admissions to private schools under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for the 2025-26 academic year.
The number of students admitted under the scheme has more than doubled over the past five years.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactOver 1.40 lakh children admitted to private schools under RTE in Uttar Pradesh for the 2025-26 academic year
- FactRTE admissions in Uttar Pradesh have more than doubled over the past five years
Mains angle
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Right to Education Act in ensuring equitable access to quality private schooling for marginalized communities in India.
- Quality disparity: Variation in infrastructure and teacher-student ratios between RTE-reserved seats and regular seats
- Monitoring gaps: Challenges in verifying the socio-economic status of applicants during the admission process
Keywords: Equitable access · Social inclusion · Public-private partnership · Educational equity · Policy implementation
GS2Social Justice › Vulnerable sections (SC/ST, minorities, disabled, elderly, children)Prelims Why in news: KSRTC issued a circular implementing the Karnataka Menstrual Leave Policy-2025, making Karnataka the first state to formally approve paid menstrual leave for women in both public and private sectors.
The policy, issued by KSRTC Managing Director Akram Pasha, grants women employees aged 18 to 52 one day of paid menstrual leave per month starting January 1, 2026. The leave does not require a medical certificate and cannot be combined with other leave types in the same month.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactKarnataka is the first state in India to formally approve paid menstrual leave for both public and private sectors.
- FactThe policy applies to women employees aged 18 to 52.
- FactThe leave is granted for one day per month and does not require a medical certificate.
- PlaceKSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) is the implementing body.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of institutionalizing menstrual leave policies in promoting gender equality and workplace inclusivity in India.
- Institutional recognition: Formalizing biological needs to reduce workplace discrimination
- Policy scalability: Challenges in standardizing menstrual leave across diverse private sector industries
- Economic impact: Balancing employer costs with employee well-being and retention
Keywords: Gender Equality · Workplace Inclusivity · Policy Implementation · Social Justice · Labor Welfare
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthPrelims Why in news: A Nepal national underwent the first-ever heart transplant performed by a government sector district hospital in India at the General Hospital, Ernakulam.
Durga Kami from Nepal received a heart transplant from a brain-dead 46-year-old Kollam native, S. Shibu. The procedure was conducted by an eight-member medical team at the General Hospital in Ernakulam.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactGeneral Hospital (GH), Ernakulam, performed India's first government sector district hospital heart transplant.
- PostThe surgical team included Dr. Shahirsha R., Dr. George Valuran, Dr. Paul Thomas, and Dr. Geo Paul.
- FactThe donor was a 46-year-old brain-dead native of Kollam.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of expanding advanced organ transplant facilities to district-level government hospitals to improve healthcare equity in India.
- Infrastructure gap: High cost of maintaining specialized transplant units in rural/district settings
- Logistical bottleneck: Ensuring cold-chain integrity for organ transport from donor to recipient sites
- Ethical oversight: Strengthening regulatory frameworks for brain-death certification and organ procurement
Keywords: Healthcare equity · Organ transplantation · Public health infrastructure · Medical tourism · District-level healthcare
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthPrelims + Mains Why in news: The Minister for Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare granted approval for Ayurvedic doctors who completed postgraduate courses in surgical studies to perform operations independently.
The approval is based on the Indian Medicine Central Council (Post Graduate Ayurveda Education) Amendment Regulations of 2020 and guidelines from the National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine. Doctors are permitted to perform 39 Shalya Tantra and 19 Shalakya Tantra procedures.
Prelims pointers (4)
- BodyIndian Medicine Central Council (Post Graduate Ayurveda Education) Amendment Regulations of 2020
- FactAyurvedic doctors can perform 39 Shalya Tantra procedures
- FactAyurvedic doctors can perform 19 Shalakya Tantra procedures
- BodyNational Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the implications of integrating traditional surgical procedures into the mainstream healthcare framework and the necessity of standardized quality controls in Ayurvedic education.
- Regulatory oversight: Ensuring standardized surgical outcomes and safety protocols across traditional medicine practitioners
- Infrastructure gap: Requirement for specialized equipment and high-quality clinical training facilities in Ayurvedic colleges
Keywords: Integrative medicine · Regulatory framework · Standardization · Public health infrastructure · Traditional knowledge systems
Why in news: The State government launched 'Mission 40+' to provide remedial teaching in seven lagging districts of the Kalyana Karnataka region to improve SSLC results.
The Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board (KKRDB) allocated ₹3.44 crore for the project. The program involves deploying 7,462 teachers across 1,345 government high schools from January to March.
Prelims pointers (4)
- SchemeMission 40+: Remedial teaching program for SSLC results in Kalyana Karnataka
- FactKKRDB allocated ₹3.44 crore for the remedial teaching project
- Fact7,462 teachers to be deployed across 1,345 government high schools
- FactTarget: Achieve a 90% passing rate in the seven lagging districts
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how targeted remedial teaching programs can address regional educational disparities and improve learning outcomes in backward districts.
- Resource disparity: Addressing the infrastructure and teacher-student ratio gap in lagging districts
- Pedagogical differentiation: Effectiveness of tiered instruction for above-average, average, and below-average learners
Keywords: educational equity · remedial teaching · regional disparity · learning outcomes · targeted intervention
Why in news: The Indian Navy is flagging off the maiden overseas voyage of INSV Kaundinya from Porbandar to Muscat, Oman, to revive India's maritime heritage.
INSV Kaundinya is a stitched sailing vessel built using traditional techniques and modern naval expertise. It is named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya and will sail from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat, Oman.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactINSV Kaundinya: A stitched sailing vessel built using traditional shipbuilding techniques.
- PostKaundinya: The legendary mariner after whom the vessel is named.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of reviving traditional maritime heritage in strengthening India's maritime diplomacy and cultural ties in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Cultural diplomacy: Leveraging historical maritime connections to build soft power in the Indian Ocean
- Heritage preservation: Integrating traditional shipbuilding techniques with modern naval expertise for maritime identity
Keywords: Maritime Heritage · Soft Power · Cultural Diplomacy · Indian Ocean Region · Traditional Shipbuilding
Why in news: Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin wrote to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar seeking permanent diplomatic steps and a Joint Working Group meeting with Sri Lanka to address the arrest of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister requested the Union Government to hold fishermen-level talks with Sri Lanka. The letter was prompted by the recent arrest of 12 Tamil Nadu fishermen and the seizure of their boat by the Sri Lankan Navy.
Prelims pointers (2)
- PostS. Jaishankar: Union Minister of External Affairs
- Fact12 Tamil Nadu fishermen were recently arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in managing maritime boundaries and fishing rights in the Indian Ocean region, specifically focusing on bilateral maritime cooperation with Sri Lanka.
- Diplomatic friction: Balancing maritime security protocols with the socio-economic livelihoods of coastal fishing communities
- Institutional mechanism: Need for a permanent Joint Working Group to formalize maritime dispute resolution
- Legal ambiguity: Overlapping Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) claims and enforcement of fishing regulations
Keywords: Maritime Diplomacy · Exclusive Economic Zone · Bilateral Cooperation · Livelihood Security · Joint Working Group
GS3 · Economy · S&T · Environment · Security · 23
GS3Internal Security › Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)Prelims + Mains Why in news: The Union government is finalising India's first anti-terror policy to provide a unified template for states to combat digital radicalization, open border misuse, and foreign-funded conversion networks.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is leading the policy formulation and organizing an anti-terror conference in December. The policy aims to standardize responses to terror-related incidents across all states following the Pahalgam attacks.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyNIA: National Investigation Agency is the primary body involved in the policy discussions and briefing state police chiefs.
- FactThe policy specifically addresses three key areas: digital radicalization, misuse of open borders, and foreign-funded conversion networks.
- PostThe Union government is the central authority finalising the policy for nationwide implementation.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of a unified national anti-terror policy in addressing modern threats like digital radicalization and cross-border infiltration in India.
- Inter-agency coordination: Standardizing response protocols between the NIA and state police units.
- Technological threat: Addressing the rapid spread of radicalization through encrypted digital platforms.
- Border security: Balancing open border management with the prevention of infiltration and illicit funding.
Keywords: Counter-terrorism · Digital Radicalization · Internal Security · Inter-agency Coordination · Border Management
Why in news: The Union government requested States and Union Territories to organize special gram sabhas to raise awareness about the newly enacted Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgaar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
The Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgaar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, aims to strengthen rural employment and livelihood diversification. The Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj will monitor the progress of the awareness campaign across states.
Prelims pointers (3)
- Act / BillViksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgaar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025
- BodyMinistry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj is the nodal ministry for monitoring the mission
- FactThe scheme provides guaranteed access to wage employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgaar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, can address rural unemployment and promote livelihood diversification in India.
- Inclusion gap: Ensuring representation of SC/ST and women in gram sabha deliberations
- Institutional oversight: Monitoring mechanisms of the Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj
- Livelihood diversification: Transitioning from wage-dependency to sustainable rural livelihood models
Keywords: livelihood diversification · rural employment · gram sabha · social inclusion · sustainable development
Why in news: The Delhi government and Directorate of Education implemented work-from-home and hybrid learning to combat severe air pollution, while the Supreme Court reinforced the right to a healthy environment under Article 21.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) amended the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mandate school closures in Delhi and NCR during severe pollution phases. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, defines 'environment' to include water, air, and land.
Prelims pointers (5)
- PlaceDelhi and NCR districts are subject to the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for air quality management.
- FactPM2.5 is identified as a major contributor to stroke, heart disease, and lung problems.
- Act / BillThe Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, provides a broad definition of 'environment' including air, water, and land.
- ConstitutionThe Supreme Court recognizes the right to a clean and healthy environment as part of Article 21.
- BodyThe Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is the body responsible for amending GRAP.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the adequacy of current legislative frameworks and administrative measures in protecting the fundamental right to a healthy environment against escalating air pollution.
- Institutional bottleneck: Coordination gaps between Delhi government and NCR districts in enforcing GRAP mandates
- Legal framework: Transition from judicial recognition under Article 21 to explicit constitutional protections
- Public trust doctrine: State's obligation to manage air quality as a shared public resource
Keywords: Article 21 · Public Trust Doctrine · Graded Response Action Plan · PM2.5 · Environmental Governance
Why in news: Odisha Police received the surrender of 22 CPI (Maoist) cadres, including high-ranking members, following the state's new surrender-and-rehabilitation policy.
The Odisha government will provide financial assistance, housing, and other benefits to the surrendered cadres.
Prelims pointers (3)
- Fact22 members of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) surrendered in Odisha
- PostSurrendered cadres included one Divisional Committee Member and six Area Committee Members
- SchemeOdisha's new surrender-and-rehabilitation policy provides financial assistance and housing
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the effectiveness of surrender-and-rehabilitation policies as a strategy to counter Left-Wing Extremism in India's tribal heartlands.
- Ideological erosion: Impact of leadership vacuum and disillusionment on Maoist recruitment
- Incentive-based rehabilitation: Balancing financial rewards with long-term socio-economic integration
- Security-led pressure: Synergy between kinetic operations and policy-driven surrender
Keywords: Left-Wing Extremism · Rehabilitation Policy · Counter-insurgency · Ideological Disillusionment · Internal Security
GS3Economy › Growth, inflation & macro indicatorsPrelims Why in news: The Election Commission of India published draft electoral rolls for four regions, revealing the exclusion of over 95 lakh names across Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.
The Election Commission of India published draft electoral rolls for Andaman and Nicobar Islands (64,000 removed), Kerala (24.08 lakh removed), Chhattisgarh (27.34 lakh removed), and Madhya Pradesh (42.74 lakh removed). The final rolls are scheduled to be issued on February 14, 2026.
Prelims pointers (5)
- FactKerala: 24.08 lakh names deleted out of 2.78 crore voters
- FactMadhya Pradesh: 42.74 lakh names excluded from a total of 5.74 crore voters
- FactChhattisgarh: 27.34 lakh names dropped from voter rolls
- FactAndaman and Nicobar Islands: 64,000 voters removed from the list
- FactFinal electoral rolls issuance date: February 14, 2026
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of periodic revision of electoral rolls in ensuring the integrity of the democratic process and the challenges in maintaining accurate voter databases.
- Data integrity: Addressing issues of duplicate entries and deceased voters to prevent electoral fraud
- Inclusion gap: Ensuring marginalized populations are not inadvertently excluded during large-scale deletions
- Administrative burden: Logistics of managing re-inclusion applications for millions of voters before final roll issuance
Keywords: Electoral Roll · Election Commission of India · Democracy · Voter Inclusion · Data Integrity
Why in news: Kuki community civil society organizations in Manipur's Kangpokpi district resolved to halt poppy cultivation starting January 1, 2026, to mitigate ethnic animosity.
The resolution followed three rounds of meetings by Kuki civil society organizations in Kangpokpi district, Manipur. The initiative aims to address the ethnic violence that began in May 2023.
Prelims pointers (2)
- PlaceKangpokpi: A district in the state of Manipur.
- FactConflict timeline: Ethnic violence in Manipur escalated significantly from May 2023.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of civil society and community-led initiatives in mitigating ethnic conflicts and curbing illicit narcotics trade in conflict-prone regions of India.
- Institutional gap: Difficulty in monitoring non-state actor compliance with voluntary community resolutions
- Security-Development nexus: Linkage between illicit poppy cultivation and the sustainment of ethnic insurgencies
- Social cohesion: Challenges in reconciling community-led peace initiatives with the presence of extremist elements
Keywords: Ethnic animosity · Civil society intervention · Narcotics control · Conflict resolution · Community policing
GS3Agriculture › MSP, procurement, PDS & food securityMains Why in news: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments to create a crop calendar and warned millers against irregularities in paddy procurement to protect farmers' interests.
The state provides subsidies and bonus payments to mango farmers and has mandated a 10-day deadline for resolving farmer grievances.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactThe state provides subsidies and bonus payments specifically to mango farmers.
- FactThe Chief Minister directed the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments to improve cold chain infrastructure and logistics utilization.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of integrated crop calendars and cold chain infrastructure in ensuring price realization for farmers in agrarian economies like Andhra Pradesh.
- Logistics bottleneck: Inefficient cold chain infrastructure leading to post-harvest losses for perishable crops like mangoes
- Market intervention: Balancing state-led procurement incentives with the need to prevent miller-driven irregularities
- Information asymmetry: Utilizing crop calendars to synchronize harvest cycles with market demand and logistics availability
Keywords: Price realization · Cold chain infrastructure · Post-harvest management · Market intervention · Logistics optimization
Why in news: The Supreme Court ordered an underwater inspection of the Mullaperiyar dam using a Remotely Operated Vehicle (RoV) to assess its structural integrity following reports of mortar erosion.
The Central Soil and Materials Research Station, Delhi, is conducting the inspection in 100-meter segments (further divided into 50-meter intervals). The study was prompted by Kerala government findings showing erosion of lime-surki mortar and cement mix exposing stones at a depth of 110 feet.
Prelims pointers (3)
- S&TRoV: Remotely Operated Vehicle used for underwater structural inspections
- BodyCentral Soil and Materials Research Station: Based in Delhi
- FactErosion depth: Stones exposed at a depth of 110 feet
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of advanced underwater technologies in ensuring the safety of aging hydroelectric and irrigation infrastructure in India.
- Technical bottleneck: Limitations of manual underwater inspections in high-pressure dam environments
- Safety-Development trade-off: Balancing the structural risks of aging dams with regional water security needs
- Institutional coordination: Inter-state cooperation and judicial oversight in managing shared water resources
Keywords: Structural Integrity · Remotely Operated Vehicle · Lime-surki mortar · Judicial Oversight · Infrastructure Safety
GS3Disaster Management › Disaster management framework (NDMA, SDRF)Prelims Why in news: The Telangana government conducted its first state-level mock disaster response exercise in collaboration with the NDMA to assess flood and industrial accident preparedness.
The exercise took place on Monday in Telangana and involved 12 districts and five additional areas, including airports. It was conducted in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to evaluate inter-departmental coordination and incident response systems.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyNDMA: National Disaster Management Authority is the apex body for disaster management in India
- FactThe mock exercise involved 12 districts and 5 additional areas including airports
- PlaceThe exercise was conducted in the state of Telangana
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of multi-agency coordination and mock drills in enhancing the disaster resilience of industrial hubs in India.
- Inter-agency friction: Coordination gaps between state disaster response forces and private industrial safety units
- Infrastructure bottleneck: Inadequate early warning systems for localized industrial chemical leaks
- Logistical constraints: Challenges in rapid evacuation and communication in high-density industrial zones
Keywords: Disaster Management · Inter-departmental coordination · Mock drills · Incident response · Flood preparedness
GS3Economy › Industry, investment & MSMEsPrelims + Mains Why in news: The Union government assured Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd (KMML) of a review to potentially increase import duties and reinstate anti-dumping duties on titanium dioxide to counter Chinese imports.
KMML requested the reinstatement of anti-dumping duties previously stayed by the Calcutta High Court. The Union government, represented by the Finance Minister and Minister for Commerce and Industry, agreed to review import taxes to support the domestic industry.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactTitanium dioxide is the primary product of interest for import duty review.
- BodyKMML: Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd is the domestic entity seeking protection.
- PlaceCalcutta High Court: The judicial body that previously stayed the anti-dumping duty.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of anti-dumping duties and import tariffs in protecting domestic manufacturing industries from predatory pricing by foreign imports.
- Market distortion: Impact of low-cost Chinese imports on the viability of domestic mineral processing units
- Trade policy trade-off: Balancing the objective of 'Make in India' with the risk of retaliatory trade measures
- Judicial oversight: The role of High Courts in staying trade protective measures and its impact on industrial policy
Keywords: Anti-dumping duty · Trade protectionism · Import substitution · Market distortion · Domestic manufacturing
GS3Economy › Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)Prelims Why in news: The Karnataka Cabinet approved the north-south tunnel road project and progress on the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) to address Bengaluru's infrastructure bottlenecks.
The north-south tunnel road is a 16.7 km underground corridor connecting Hebbal and Central Silk Board. The Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), renamed the Bengaluru Business Corridor (BBC), secured a loan from HUDCO for land acquisition and construction.
Prelims pointers (4)
- PlaceHebbal and Central Silk Board are key connectivity points for the new north-south tunnel road in Bengaluru
- BodyBangalore Development Authority (BDA) is implementing the short tunnel-cum-elevated corridor between Hebbal Junction and Mekhri Circle
- BodyHUDCO provided a loan for land acquisition and construction of the Bengaluru Business Corridor (PRR)
- FactThe north-south tunnel road project covers a distance of 16.7 km
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges of urban infrastructure expansion in rapidly growing metropolitan cities like Bengaluru and the role of public-private partnerships in mitigating these issues.
- Land acquisition hurdles: Complexity of acquiring private land for large-scale corridors like the PRR
- Funding constraints: Reliance on institutional loans from bodies like HUDCO for high-capital infrastructure
- Urban congestion: Balancing underground tunnel development with surface-level elevated corridor networks
Keywords: Urban Infrastructure · Public-Private Partnership · Urban Planning · Connectivity · Capital Expenditure
GS3Agriculture › Food processing & supply chainPrelims Why in news: Andhra Pradesh's DISCOMs signed MoUs with private developers to establish four new waste-to-energy plants to convert municipal waste into electricity.
The state will have a total of six waste-to-energy plants after the addition of four new ones. Jindal is designated to develop plants in Kakinada and Nellore, while Antony Lara Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd. will develop facilities in Kadapa and Kurnool.
Prelims pointers (3)
- PlaceKakinada, Nellore, Kadapa, and Kurnool are locations for the new waste-to-energy plants in Andhra Pradesh
- FactTotal number of waste-to-energy plants in Andhra Pradesh will reach six
- FactJindal and Antony Lara Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd. are the developers for the new plants
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of waste-to-energy initiatives in achieving the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission and managing urban waste in rapidly developing states.
- Circular economy: Converting municipal solid waste into electricity to reduce landfill dependency
- Infrastructure gap: Requirement of stable power distribution and logistical support for waste collection
- Environmental mitigation: Reducing methane emissions from legacy waste through thermal or biological conversion
Keywords: Circular Economy · Waste Management · Renewable Energy · Municipal Solid Waste · Sustainable Development
GS3Internal Security › Money laundering & organised crimePrelims + Mains Why in news: The Bombay High Court refused to hear Vijay Mallya's challenge to the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEO Act) until he returns to India to submit to judicial jurisdiction.
The Bombay High Court directed Vijay Mallya to file an affidavit outlining a timeline for his return to India. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed the plea citing Section 14 of the FEO Act, which prohibits fugitives from contesting proceedings while evading Indian courts.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyEnforcement Directorate (ED): The agency representing the government in the case against Vijay Mallya.
- FactSection 14 of the FEO Act: Specifically bars fugitives from contesting proceedings while evading Indian courts.
- PlaceBombay High Court: The judicial body presiding over the petition.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the legal and procedural challenges in prosecuting economic offenders who flee the country, and discuss the significance of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act in curbing money laundering.
- Jurisdictional hurdle: Difficulty in enforcing judicial mandates against individuals residing in non-extradition jurisdictions
- Legislative intent: Balancing the right to legal recourse against the state's need to penalize flight from justice
- Enforcement gap: Complexity in identifying and seizing assets held in opaque offshore accounts
Keywords: Extradition · Money Laundering · Judicial Jurisdiction · Asset Seizure · Economic Offenses
GS3Economy › Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)Prelims Why in news: The State government initiated plans for a second airport in Bengaluru to address projected capacity limitations at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) by the early 2030s.
Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is projected to handle 80-90 million passengers by the end of the decade. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is currently evaluating potential sites and has invited tenders for a feasibility report.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactKIA is projected to handle 80-90 million passengers by the end of the decade
- BodyAirports Authority of India (AAI) is the body evaluating potential sites and inviting tenders for the feasibility report
- PlaceThe Bengaluru Airport City project spans 463 acres
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the necessity of developing multi-airport hubs in rapidly urbanizing metropolitan regions to sustain economic growth and infrastructure demands.
- Urban congestion: Mitigation of logistical bottlenecks in high-density corridors
- Infrastructure scalability: Addressing capacity saturation in primary aviation hubs
- Economic multiplier: Impact of integrated 'Airport City' models on regional logistics
Keywords: Infrastructure scalability · Urban logistics · Capacity limitations · Feasibility study · Aviation hub
Why in news: The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department and partner organizations are conducting the 40th Asian Waterbird Census and 60th International Waterbird Census at Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary.
The census will take place on January 10-11, 2026, at the Godavari estuary in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary. It focuses on four endangered migratory bird species: Indian Skimmer, Great Knot, Eurasian Curlew, and Eurasian oystercatcher.
Prelims pointers (4)
- EnvironmentIndian Skimmer, Great Knot, Eurasian Curlew, and Eurasian oystercatcher are endangered migratory bird species.
- PlaceCoringa Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the Godavari estuary in Andhra Pradesh.
- BodyBombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) are key partners in the census.
- FactThe event marks the 40th Asian Waterbird Census and the 60th International Waterbird Census.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of migratory bird corridors in maintaining regional biodiversity and the role of community-led conservation in protecting endangered species.
- Habitat degradation: Impact of coastal development and pollution on Godavari estuary feeding grounds
- Transboundary cooperation: Necessity of international protocols for protecting migratory flyways
- Citizen science: Efficacy of involving local birdwatchers in biodiversity monitoring
Keywords: Migratory birds · Biodiversity conservation · Citizen science · Endangered species · Habitat preservation
GS3Environment & Ecology › Species, protected areas & wetlandsMains Why in news: Wildlife First urged the Karnataka Forest Department to reject Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited’s (KIOCL) proposal for ex-post facto forest clearance regarding the illegal submergence of forest land.
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India estimated environmental damage from the Lakya dam at ₹115.86 crore. Wildlife First has requested the declaration of 1,401 hectares of land as part of Kudremukh National Park.
Prelims pointers (3)
- PlaceKudremukh National Park is located in Karnataka.
- FactThe estimated environmental damage caused by the Lakya dam is ₹115.86 crore.
- FactWildlife First requested the inclusion of 1,401 hectares of land into Kudremukh National Park.
Mains angle
Q. Critically analyze the legal and environmental implications of granting ex-post facto forest clearances for industrial projects in ecologically sensitive zones.
- Legal precedent: Supreme Court's Lafarge Judgement prohibiting retrospective clearances for environmental damage
- Regulatory oversight: Accountability of public sector undertakings (PSUs) in adhering to forest conservation norms
- Conservation trade-offs: Balancing industrial mineral extraction with the integrity of national park boundaries
Keywords: ex-post facto clearance · environmental degradation · forest conservation · regulatory compliance · ecological integrity
GS3Agriculture › MSP, procurement, PDS & food securityPrelims Why in news: The Union government issued a notification permitting registered tobacco growers in Mysuru to sell surplus Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco at authorized auction platforms.
The notification allows registered and licensed tobacco growers to sell surplus FCV tobacco. Growers must contribute ₹1 per kilogram and 5% of sale proceeds to the Tobacco Fund for the 2025-26 season.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyTobacco Board: The body authorized to oversee tobacco auction platforms and grower registrations.
- FactTobacco Fund contribution: ₹1 per kilogram and 5% of sale proceeds for the 2025-26 season.
- FactFCV: Flue Cured Virginia tobacco is the specific variety permitted for sale under this notification.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of auction-based platforms and fund contributions in stabilizing the livelihoods of tobacco growers in India.
- Market liquidity: Auction platforms providing immediate price discovery for surplus crops
- Fiscal mechanism: Use of grower contributions to sustain the Tobacco Fund for industry support
Keywords: Price discovery · Market intervention · Livelihood stabilization · Auction platforms
GS3Science & Technology › Nuclear & new energy technologyPrelims Why in news: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed that all new APSRTC electric buses, including Palle Velugu, must be air-conditioned to enhance passenger comfort and sustainable mobility.
The Andhra Pradesh government aims to replace 8,819 diesel buses with electric and CNG variants over five years. The state plans to operate exclusively electric and CNG buses by 2030 to reduce pollution and operating costs.
Prelims pointers (4)
- SchemePM e-Bus Sewa: A central government scheme supporting the conversion of diesel buses to CNG and the deployment of electric buses.
- FactAPSRTC target: Replacement of 8,819 diesel buses over a five-year period.
- Fact2030 Goal: Andhra Pradesh aims to operate only electric and CNG buses by 2030.
- BodyAPSRTC: Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of public transport electrification in achieving sustainable mobility and reducing the carbon footprint of urban and rural transport in India.
- Operational viability: Balancing high upfront capital costs of EVs with long-term reductions in fuel and maintenance expenses
- Infrastructure gap: Requirement for high-density charging networks and grid stability to support large-scale electric bus fleets
Keywords: Sustainable mobility · Decarbonization · Public transport electrification · Operational costs · Green transition
Why in news: The Bombay High Court criticized the BMC and MPCB for failing to protect construction workers from hazardous air pollution, emphasizing the constitutional duty to safeguard the environment.
The Bombay High Court issued orders to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) regarding smog and construction site safety. The court mandated immediate enforcement measures including water fogging, debris covering, and sensor-based monitoring.
Prelims pointers (4)
- BodyBMC: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is the local governing body for Mumbai.
- BodyMPCB: Maharashtra Pollution Control Board is the state body responsible for pollution control.
- FactCourt-mandated measures include water fogging, debris covering, and sensor-based monitoring.
- FactThe court highlighted the constitutional duty of authorities to protect the environment.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the institutional and regulatory gaps in managing urban air pollution and ensuring the occupational safety of construction workers in rapidly urbanizing Indian cities.
- Regulatory oversight: Lack of proactive enforcement by MPCB and BMC despite available pollution data
- Occupational hazards: Vulnerability of construction workers to hazardous air quality in high-density urban zones
- Constitutional mandate: Balancing rapid infrastructure development with the fundamental right to a clean environment
Keywords: Occupational Safety · Urban Air Quality · Regulatory Enforcement · Constitutional Duty · Environmental Governance
GS3Economy › Employment & inclusive growthPrelims Why in news: The Cuddalore district administration launched village startup communities in four villages to support youth, women, and persons with disabilities through the Gramam Thorum Puthozhil Scheme.
The initiative targets the creation of 100 startups across 100 villages in Tamil Nadu. It focuses on providing ideation, prototyping, and mentorship to connect Tier 2 and Tier 3 city startups with major corporate players.
Prelims pointers (3)
- SchemeGramam Thorum Puthozhil Scheme: A Tamil Nadu initiative for sustainable economic development in villages.
- FactThe initiative aims to nurture 100 startups across 100 villages in Tamil Nadu.
- PlaceNathapattu, Bhuvanagiri, Poongunam, and Pinjanur: Villages in Cuddalore district where startup communities were launched.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how fostering rural startup ecosystems can address the challenges of rural-urban migration and promote inclusive economic growth in India.
- Market access gap: Difficulty for rural startups to scale without direct linkages to corporate supply chains
- Inclusion barriers: Need for specialized mentorship frameworks for women and persons with disabilities in rural tech
- Infrastructure deficit: Lack of prototyping facilities and high-speed connectivity in Tier 3 and village clusters
Keywords: Inclusive growth · Rural entrepreneurship · Tier 2/3 city dynamics · Sustainable economic development · Mentorship ecosystem
GS3Internal Security › Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)Prelims Why in news: The Delhi High Court dismissed appeals filed by the sons of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin challenging the framing of charges in a terror funding case.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) alleges that funds were transferred via hawala channels from Pakistan to fund secessionist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Delhi High Court ruled the appeals against the framing of charges as not maintainable.
Prelims pointers (2)
- BodyNIA: National Investigation Agency is the primary body investigating terror funding and secessionist activities.
- FactThe case involves allegations of funds being transferred through hawala channels from Pakistan.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the legal and security challenges in dismantling terror funding networks and the role of the NIA in ensuring national security against secessionist activities.
- Judicial oversight: Balancing the right to a fair trial with the urgency of national security investigations
- Financial intelligence: Challenges in tracking informal hawala channels and cross-border illicit fund flows
- Counter-terrorism: Addressing the nexus between external funding and internal secessionist movements
Keywords: Terror funding · Hawala channels · National Investigation Agency · Secessionist activities · Judicial maintainability
GS3Economy › Industry, investment & MSMEsPrelims Why in news: Karnataka Minister Shivanand Patil promised to expedite the construction of the PM MITRA Textile Park in Kalaburagi following the formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
The PM MITRA Textile Park in Kalaburagi has a total outlay of ₹390 crore. The project involves a completed land transfer and issued tenders for infrastructure development, currently awaiting final State-level clearances.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactThe Kalaburagi PM MITRA Textile Park has a total outlay of ₹390 crore.
- BodySpecial Purpose Vehicle (SPV): Formed to facilitate the infrastructure development of the park.
- PlaceKalaburagi: The location of the proposed textile park in Karnataka.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the PM MITRA scheme can transform the textile industry and contribute to regional industrial development in India.
- Logistical synergy: Integrated parks reducing production costs through proximity of spinning, weaving, and processing units
- Regional development: Creating industrial hubs in underdeveloped regions like Kalyana Karnataka to curb migration
- Infrastructure bottleneck: Delays in state-level clearances and land-use conversion affecting project timelines
Keywords: Industrial Cluster · Value Chain Integration · Regional Development · Special Purpose Vehicle · Infrastructure Development
GS3Internal Security › Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)Prelims Why in news: Security forces arrested two members of the proscribed People's Liberation Army in Manipur for alleged extortion and recovered improvised mortars in Tengnoupal district.
Two members of the People's Liberation Army were arrested in Imphal West district. Security forces also recovered improvised mortars and communication devices in Tengnoupal district during ongoing search operations.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactPeople's Liberation Army is a proscribed outfit in Manipur.
- PlaceImphal West and Tengnoupal are districts in Manipur.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by security forces in maintaining internal security and curbing insurgent activities in the Northeast region of India.
- Intelligence gap: Difficulty in tracking clandestine communication devices and improvised weaponry in dense terrain
- Humanitarian crisis: Managing large-scale displacement and rehabilitation of victims of ethnic violence
Keywords: Internal Security · Insurgency · Counter-terrorism · Extortion · Ethnic Violence
These are SatyaDheesh's own UPSC notes, written from reports published in The Hindu. SatyaDheesh is not affiliated with The Hindu. Every note links to the original report; read it in full on thehindu.com. How these notes are made