GS2 · Polity · Governance · IR · 10
Why in news: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China mediated tensions between India and Pakistan during the year, while also highlighting China's role in mediating conflicts in Myanmar, Iran, and Palestine-Israel.
Wang Yi acknowledged China's military support to Pakistan during the May 7-10 Operation Sindoor conflict. He emphasized China's focus on addressing both symptoms and root causes of conflict and noted the importance of economic globalisation and China-U.S. cooperation.
Prelims pointers (3)
- PostWang Yi: Current Chinese Foreign Minister
- FactOperation Sindoor: Conflict involving Pakistan and India between May 7-10
- BodySCO: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit where PM Modi was invited
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the implications of China's increasing role as a mediator in regional conflicts on India's traditional security architecture and bilateral relations with its neighbors.
- Strategic autonomy: Balancing China's mediation role against traditional security alliances
- Regional hegemony: Impact of Chinese mediation on the power dynamics of the SCO and SAARC regions
- Conflict resolution: Effectiveness of addressing root causes vs symptoms in the Indus region
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Mediation · Regional Stability · Geopolitical Influence · Conflict Resolution
Why in news: India and New Zealand concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in December to boost economic cooperation and diversify trade partners following US tariffs on Indian exports.
The FTA grants New Zealand zero duty on all Indian exports and targets $20 billion in FDI by 2030. India receives duty-free access to 95% of New Zealand imports, with specific provisions for Ayurveda, yoga, and traditional medicine services.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactNew Zealand is granted zero duty on all Indian exports under the new FTA.
- FactIndia receives duty-free access to 95% of New Zealand imports.
- FactThe agreement targets $20 billion in FDI from New Zealand by 2030.
- FactThe FTA includes specific provisions to facilitate trade in Ayurveda, yoga, and traditional medicine services.
Mains angle
Q. Examine how bilateral Free Trade Agreements can help India diversify its trade partners and mitigate the impact of unilateral trade barriers from major economies.
- Asymmetric gains: Concerns over trade deficits and the exclusion of sensitive dairy and agriculture products from the deal.
- Domestic competitiveness: Requirement for Indian exporters to meet international quality standards to sustain market share.
- Strategic diversification: Reducing over-dependence on traditional trade partners to insulate the economy from external tariff shocks.
Keywords: Trade Diversification · Asymmetric Trade · FDI Inflow · Market Access · Trade Deficit
GS2Social Justice › Vulnerable sections (SC/ST, minorities, disabled, elderly, children)Mains Why in news: The Andhra Pradesh High Court directed the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) to relocate homeless individuals to shelters and establish a dedicated night shelter for women.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court ordered the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) to relocate homeless people from pavements to shelters. The court also directed the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department to address shelter issues in district headquarters and suggested involving NGOs.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyVMC: Vijayawada Municipal Corporation is the local urban body responsible for the city's administration.
- PostMA&UD: The Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department is the state-level body overseeing urban planning and infrastructure.
- FactThe court specifically highlighted the lack of night shelters for women in Vijayawada.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of municipal bodies and civil society in ensuring the rights of the urban homeless. How can public-private partnerships improve shelter infrastructure?
- Institutional gap: Lack of dedicated night shelters for women in urban planning
- Collaborative governance: Potential of NGOs to bridge the gap in shelter provision
- Urban rights: Balancing public space usage with the right to shelter for destitute populations
Keywords: Urban Poverty · Public-Private Partnership · Right to Shelter · Municipal Governance · Social Inclusion
GS2Polity & Constitution › Constitution, amendments & basic structureMains Why in news: The Tamil Nadu government is weighing its options after President Draupadi Murmu withheld assent to the Chennai University Amendment Bill, 2022, which aimed to empower the State to appoint Vice-Chancellors.
The bill was reserved by Governor R.N. Ravi for the President's consideration citing UGC regulations. The President returned the bill to the Tamil Nadu government without providing an explanation for withholding assent.
Prelims pointers (3)
- PostGovernor R.N. Ravi reserved the Chennai University Amendment Bill, 2022 for the President's consideration.
- FactThe Chennai University Amendment Bill, 2022 sought to empower the State to appoint Vice-Chancellors.
- BodyUGC (University Grants Commission) regulations were cited as the reason for the Governor's reservation.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the constitutional friction between State governments and the Governor regarding the power to reserve bills for Presidential consideration.
- Federal friction: Conflict between State legislative autonomy and Central oversight via UGC regulations
- Constitutional ambiguity: Lack of clarity on the President's power to withhold assent without providing reasons
- Judicial oversight: Impact of Supreme Court rulings on the scope of discretionary powers of the Governor
Keywords: Federalism · Legislative Process · Governor's Discretion · State Autonomy · Constitutional Conflict
GS2Governance › NGOs, SHGs & civil societyPrelims Why in news: The Kerala government is launching the ‘Nava Keralam Citizen Response Programme Development/ Welfare Study’ to gather public input on development and welfare schemes.
The program involves trained volunteers visiting homes and public gatherings to record responses via an app or online submission. Data will be analyzed by the Institute of Management in Government to provide policy recommendations.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyInstitute of Management in Government: Body responsible for analyzing study data for policy recommendations
- FactNava Keralam Citizen Response Programme: Kerala state initiative to gather public input on welfare schemes
- S&TData collection method: Use of a dedicated app and online submission for recording public responses
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how participatory governance models and citizen-centric data collection can enhance the efficacy of welfare schemes in Indian states.
- Data integrity: Ensuring unbiased data collection by volunteers in diverse socio-economic households
- Policy feedback loop: Bridging the gap between grassroots public sentiment and state-level policy formulation
- Digital divide: Ensuring equitable representation of rural populations in app-based response systems
Keywords: participatory governance · citizen-centric policy · grassroots feedback · data-driven governance · welfare delivery
Why in news: The Election Commission of India issued guidelines to exempt voters aged 85+ and those with disabilities from physical hearings during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal.
The ECI directed officials to avoid summoning electors aged 85 years and above, as well as those with illnesses or disabilities, for in-person verification. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged the SIR process uses AI and threatened protests against the deletion of legitimate voter names.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodyECI: The body responsible for issuing guidelines on voter verification and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
- FactAge threshold: Voters aged 85 years and above are exempted from physical hearings.
- PlaceWest Bengal: The state where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is being conducted.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the challenges in ensuring inclusive voter list management while maintaining the integrity of the electoral roll during intensive revision processes.
- Technological scrutiny: Concerns over AI-driven voter deletion and data integrity
- Inclusivity gap: Balancing physical verification requirements with the accessibility needs of elderly and disabled voters
Keywords: electoral integrity · inclusive governance · voter disenfranchisement · administrative transparency
GS2Social Justice › Health policy & public healthPrelims Why in news: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is set to inaugurate the 'Vibe 4 Wellness' campaign on January 1st to combat high prevalence of non-communicable diseases.
A health survey using the Shylee app in Kerala revealed a 34% prevalence of hypertension and 24% prevalence of diabetes among adults aged 30 and above. The ICMR-INDIAB study reported a higher hypertension prevalence of over 44% in the state.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactShylee app: Tool used for Kerala's health survey to track hypertension and diabetes.
- FactICMR-INDIAB study: Reported hypertension prevalence exceeding 44% in Kerala.
- SchemeVibe 4 Wellness: Kerala state campaign aiming to reach 10 lakh people through awareness programs.
- FactVibe 4 Wellness targets: Promotion of healthy dietary habits, physical activity, and sleep hygiene.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in managing the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Indian states and suggest measures to strengthen public health awareness.
- Data-driven monitoring: Utilizing mobile applications like Shylee for real-time epidemiological surveillance
- Lifestyle intervention: Addressing dietary habits and sleep hygiene as primary preventive measures for hypertension
- Public health infrastructure: Bridging the gap between high prevalence rates and community-level awareness
Keywords: Non-communicable diseases · Epidemiological surveillance · Preventive healthcare · Public health awareness · Lifestyle modification
Why in news: The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) announced that visually impaired students can now opt to write SSLC and II PUC exams digitally using computers.
The KSEAB allows visually impaired students to use computers for SSLC and II PUC exams. Students must register separately, bring their own devices, and undergo an inspection by a Computer teacher.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactKSEAB: Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board
- FactSSLC and II PUC: Exams eligible for digital writing facility
- FactInternet connection: Prohibited during the digital exam
- FactSoftware: Only approved software allowed for typing answers
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how inclusive education policies for students with disabilities can be effectively implemented through technological interventions in the Indian examination system.
- Digital divide: Ensuring equitable access to hardware and approved software for rural visually impaired students
- Integrity protocols: Balancing the need for assistive technology with the prevention of unauthorized internet access
Keywords: Inclusive Education · Assistive Technology · Digital Literacy · Equitable Access · Disability Rights
Why in news: The Andhra Pradesh government announced that marks from vocational subjects will be included in the SSC (10th Class) marks memo starting next academic year to enhance student grading.
The Samagra Shiksha State Project Director (SPD) B. Srinivasa Rao announced the inclusion of vocational subjects in the SSC marks memo. The initiative aims to transform vocational education into a foundation for careers and will be introduced in all Government High Schools across the state.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactVocational subject marks will be included in the SSC (10th Class) marks memo in Andhra Pradesh.
- SchemeThe initiative is part of the Samagra Shiksha project's implementation in the state.
- FactVocational education will be introduced in all Government High Schools across Andhra Pradesh.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how integrating vocational education into the mainstream secondary school curriculum can bridge the gap between academic learning and employability in India.
- Pedagogical shift: Transitioning from rote learning to activity-based learning to foster innovation and entrepreneurship
- Skill-gap alignment: Addressing the mismatch between traditional academic degrees and industry-specific vocational requirements
Keywords: Vocational Education · Skill Development · Activity-based Learning · Pedagogical Reform · Employability
GS2Governance › Role of civil servicesMains Why in news: The Tamil Nadu Pension Committee submitted its final report to CM M.K. Stalin recommending a pension option for state employees amidst a planned strike by the JACTTO-GEO union.
The committee, headed by senior IAS officer Gagandeep Singh Bedi, evaluated the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The final report was submitted on December 30, 2025, following an interim report in October.
Prelims pointers (2)
- FactThe committee evaluated three schemes: OPS, CPS, and UPS
- PlaceTamil Nadu: State government submitting the report to CM M.K. Stalin
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the fiscal implications and administrative challenges of transitioning from a defined benefit to a defined contribution pension model for state government employees.
- Fiscal sustainability: Balancing long-term state expenditure with the financial security of retired civil servants
- Labor relations: Managing industrial action and union demands for OPS restoration versus fiscal prudence
Keywords: Fiscal Federalism · Public Finance · Labor Relations · Pension Reform · Administrative Efficiency
GS3 · Economy · S&T · Environment · Security · 16
Why in news: The Principal Scientific Advisor to the government published a white paper advocating for democratizing access to AI infrastructure to prevent the concentration of power among large firms and Western tech giants.
The white paper emphasizes making foundational resources like compute capacity and datasets available to smaller players and non-urban hubs. It aligns with the IndiaAI Mission, which provides GPUs to researchers and startups to foster responsible AI development.
Prelims pointers (3)
- S&TIndiaAI Mission: A government initiative providing GPUs to researchers and startups.
- FactKey AI infrastructure components identified: compute capacity and datasets.
- PostPrincipal Scientific Advisor: The official responsible for the white paper on AI infrastructure.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of democratizing AI infrastructure in India to ensure equitable technological growth and prevent monopolistic control by global tech giants.
- Market concentration: Risk of 'compute-divide' where only large firms can afford high-end GPU clusters.
- Data sovereignty: Balancing open access to datasets with privacy and national security concerns.
- Infrastructure gap: Need for decentralized data centers to support rural and SME-led AI innovation.
Keywords: Democratization of technology · Compute capacity · IndiaAI Mission · Responsible AI · Digital divide · Monopolistic concentration
GS3Economy › Growth, inflation & macro indicatorsPrelims + Mains Why in news: The Government of India announced that India has surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth largest economy with a GDP of $4.18 trillion.
India's current GDP is $4.18 trillion, making it the fourth largest economy globally. It is projected to overtake Germany to become the third largest economy by 2030.
Prelims pointers (3)
- FactIndia's current GDP is $4.18 trillion
- FactIndia is projected to become the third largest economy by 2030
- FactIndia surpassed Japan to reach the fourth largest economy position
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the structural drivers behind India's rapid ascent in global GDP rankings and the implications of its projected position as the world's third-largest economy by 2030.
- Consumption-led growth: Impact of robust domestic demand on sustaining high GDP growth rates
- External stability: Correlation between low inflation and strong export performance in a volatile global market
- Institutional credibility: Influence of revised growth projections by international agencies like IMF and World Bank
Keywords: GDP growth · domestic consumption · inflation management · export performance · economic trajectory
Why in news: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology issued an advisory to social media platforms directing the proactive removal of obscene and pornographic content using automated technology.
The advisory targets large social media platforms with over 50 lakh users. It mandates the use of technology for automatic detection and removal of content under the IT Rules, 2021.
Prelims pointers (4)
- Act / BillIT Rules, 2021: Framework governing social media intermediaries and content moderation.
- FactThreshold for large platforms: Over 50 lakh users.
- BodyMinistry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY): Nodal ministry for IT regulations.
- FactSafe harbor exemption: Legal protection for intermediaries if they comply with content removal rules.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in balancing the right to freedom of speech with the state's obligation to regulate obscene content on digital platforms.
- Regulatory friction: Balancing individual freedom of expression against state-mandated content moderation standards.
- Technological bottleneck: Accuracy of automated AI filters in distinguishing between artistic expression and prohibited obscenity.
- Liability shift: The erosion of 'safe harbor' protections and its impact on the growth of domestic digital ecosystems.
Keywords: Safe harbor exemption · Content moderation · Digital sovereignty · Automated detection · Regulatory oversight
Why in news: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) conducted the maiden flight of the Dhruv NG multi-role helicopter in Bengaluru to showcase indigenous rotary-wing advancement.
The Dhruv NG is a 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine helicopter featuring a glass cockpit and advanced avionics. It is designed for civilian roles such as VIP transport, passenger utility, Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), and disaster relief.
Prelims pointers (3)
- S&TDhruv NG: A 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine multi-role helicopter developed by HAL
- FactDhruv NG features include enhanced power engines and a glass cockpit for situational awareness
- PostHAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) is the primary body responsible for the Dhruv NG development
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of indigenous rotary-wing technology in enhancing India's disaster management and internal security capabilities.
- Strategic autonomy: Reducing reliance on foreign OEMs for critical aerospace components
- Versatility: Multi-role capability bridging civilian utility and emergency response requirements
Keywords: Atmanirbhar Bharat · Rotary-wing capability · Indigenous manufacturing · Situational awareness · Aerospace engineering
GS3Agriculture › Food processing & supply chainPrelims Why in news: The Bihar government announced plans to revive the Sakri and Raiyam sugar mills by transferring them to the Cooperative department under the 'Saat Nischay' program.
The Bihar government plans to revive the Sakri sugar mill in Madhubani district and the Raiyam sugar mill in Darbhanga district. These mills will be transferred to the Cooperative department as part of the 'Saat Nischay' program.
Prelims pointers (4)
- PlaceSakri sugar mill is located in Madhubani district, Bihar
- PlaceRaiyam sugar mill is located in Darbhanga district, Bihar
- SchemeSaat Nischay is a Bihar government program aimed at reviving old sugar mills and establishing new ones
- FactThe mills are being transferred to the Cooperative department for revival
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of reviving defunct sugar mills in Bihar for rural industrialization and the role of cooperative models in achieving these goals.
- Institutional synergy: Coordination between Cooperative department and industrial bodies for mill modernization
- Rural employment: Potential for job creation and value-addition in the sugar-processing supply chain
- Infrastructure gap: Requirement for modernizing aging machinery and irrigation-linked logistics
Keywords: Cooperative model · Rural industrialization · Value-addition · Saat Nischay · Sugar industry
GS3Economy › Industry, investment & MSMEsPrelims Why in news: The Rajasthan Cabinet approved a new vehicle scrapping policy to phase out unfit and polluting vehicles while offering discounts on new purchases to promote a circular economy.
The Rajasthan government will provide incentives for investment in registered vehicle scrapping facilities. The Pachpadra oil refinery project has a revised cost of ₹79,459 crore with a debt-equity ratio of 2:1 and is expected to be commissioned in January 2026.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactPachpadra oil refinery revised cost: ₹79,459 crore
- FactPachpadra oil refinery debt-equity ratio: 2:1
- PlacePachpadra oil refinery: Rajasthan
- SchemeRajasthan vehicle scrapping policy: provides discounts on new vehicle purchases
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how vehicle scrapping policies can contribute to the circular economy and environmental sustainability in India.
- Resource recovery: Converting end-of-life vehicles into raw materials for industrial manufacturing
- Environmental mitigation: Reducing particulate matter and carbon emissions from aging, unfit engines
- Incentive structure: Balancing consumer subsidies with the establishment of formal scrapping infrastructure
Keywords: circular economy · resource recovery · industrial investment · environmental sustainability · policy incentives
GS3Economy › Fiscal policy, budget & taxation (GST)Mains Why in news: The Second Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission recommended closing or consolidating over 1,000 irrelevant heads of accounts to address revenue deficits caused by flagship guarantee schemes.
The Second Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission proposed ending or consolidating over 1,000 heads of accounts (HOAs) with minimal funding. The commission also suggested an annual recruitment plan and restrictions on new government posts to manage revenue expenditure.
Prelims pointers (3)
- BodySecond Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission: body tasked with recommending administrative reforms in Karnataka
- FactOver 1,000 heads of accounts (HOAs) identified for potential closure or consolidation
- FactRevenue deficit in Karnataka is linked to the implementation of five flagship guarantee schemes
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of rationalizing public expenditure and administrative structures in ensuring fiscal sustainability for state governments.
- Fiscal pressure: Balancing the implementation of welfare-centric guarantee schemes with state revenue deficit constraints
- Administrative efficiency: Reducing bureaucratic overhead by consolidating obsolete heads of accounts and streamlining recruitment
- Resource optimization: Transitioning from expansionary spending to targeted expenditure on relevant public priorities
Keywords: Fiscal sustainability · Administrative rationalization · Revenue expenditure · Public accountability · Fiscal deficit
GS3Economy › Industry, investment & MSMEsPrelims Why in news: The Ministry of Finance approved a ₹200 crore incentive for Uttarakhand for implementing mining reforms like e-auctions and satellite monitoring to curb illegal mining.
The Centre allocated ₹200 crore to Uttarakhand under the SASCI scheme. The reforms focus on minor minerals and improving the State Mining Readiness Index through e-auction systems and satellite-based monitoring.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactThe Centre allocated ₹200 crore to Uttarakhand for mining reforms.
- SchemeSASCI scheme: The scheme under which the special assistance was approved by the Ministry of Finance.
- FactState Mining Readiness Index: The metric used to assess the state's mining reform progress.
- FactSatellite-based monitoring and e-auction systems: Specific technological reforms implemented by Uttarakhand to curb illegal mining.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how technological interventions and fiscal incentives can enhance the transparency and revenue generation of the mining sector in India.
- Revenue leakage: Curbing illegal mining through satellite-based real-time monitoring and digital auctioning
- Fiscal federalism: Use of central incentives to drive state-level regulatory reforms and infrastructure
- Regulatory transparency: Transitioning from manual oversight to e-auction systems to minimize discretionary interference
Keywords: Fiscal Incentive · Regulatory Reform · Revenue Leakage · Digital Governance · Resource Management
Why in news: District administrations in Kashmir banned the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for two months to curb militant activity and potential anti-national misuse.
The ban was issued by the district administrations of Budgam, Shopian, Kulgam, and Srinagar. The restriction follows similar measures previously implemented in the Pir Panchal Valley and Chenab Valley in the Jammu region.
Prelims pointers (1)
- PlacePir Panchal Valley and Chenab Valley are regions in the Jammu region where similar restrictions were previously applied
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges posed by VPN technologies to internal security and the implications of restricting digital access in conflict-prone regions.
- Anonymity vs. Accountability: Difficulty in identifying perpetrators using encrypted VPN tunnels for coordinated militant activities
- Digital Sovereignty: Balancing the right to privacy and internet freedom with the state's obligation to maintain public order
- Technological Enforcement: Challenges in monitoring decentralized VPN protocols and decentralized communication networks
Keywords: Internal Security · Cybersecurity · Digital Privacy · Counter-insurgency · Public Order
GS3Environment & Ecology › Species, protected areas & wetlandsPrelims Why in news: Wildlife enthusiasts and the Bombay Natural History Society confirmed the sighting of a rare Eastern Imperial Eagle and an endangered Egyptian vulture in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
The Eastern Imperial Eagle is a migratory species that breeds throughout Western and Central Asia. It was spotted in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) during its winter migratory season.
Prelims pointers (2)
- EnvironmentEastern Imperial Eagle: A migratory bird species breeding in Western and Central Asia.
- EnvironmentEgyptian vulture: An endangered bird species also spotted in MTR.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the ecological significance of migratory corridors and the necessity of community-led conservation in protecting avian biodiversity in tiger reserves.
- Habitat integrity: Balancing tiger conservation with the requirements of migratory raptor species
- Tourism management: Conflict between high-volume visitor influx and ecological preservation of sensitive habitats
Keywords: migratory corridors · biodiversity conservation · habitat suitability · ecotourism management · avian biodiversity
Why in news: The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth ₹4,666 crore for the acquisition of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines and Heavyweight Torpedoes to bolster Indian Army and Navy capabilities.
The Ministry of Defence signed two contracts: one for 4.25 lakh CQB Carbines from Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd (₹2,770 crore), and another for 48 Heavyweight Torpedoes from WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy (₹1,896 crore). Deliveries for the torpedoes are scheduled between April 2028 and early 2030.
Prelims pointers (5)
- FactTotal value of defence contracts signed: ₹4,666 crore
- FactQuantity of CQB Carbines to be supplied: over 4.25 lakh
- FactTorpedoes are intended for the Indian Navy's Kalvari Class submarines
- PostBharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd are the domestic suppliers for carbines
- PlaceWASS Submarine Systems S.R.L. is an Italian firm supplying torpedoes
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in enhancing India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and reducing import dependency.
- Strategic autonomy: Reducing reliance on foreign OEMs for critical naval weaponry like torpedoes
- Industrial synergy: Leveraging private sector manufacturing (Bharat Forge) for large-scale small arms production
- Logistics timeline: Managing long-term procurement cycles for high-tech underwater warfare assets
Keywords: Atmanirbhar Bharat · Defence Procurement · Indigenization · Strategic Autonomy · Kalvari Class Submarines
GS3Internal Security › Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)Prelims Why in news: Assam’s Special Task Force (STF) arrested 11 individuals for suspected links to the Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), a radical offshoot of the banned Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).
The arrests occurred on December 29, 2025, in Assam and Tripura. The IMK was formed in 2018 by Jewel Mahmud (Imam Mahmud Habibullah) and is allegedly linked to the Ansarullah Bangla Team and Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent.
Prelims pointers (5)
- Fact11 individuals arrested in Assam and Tripura on December 29, 2025
- BodySpecial Task Force (STF) is the agency responsible for the arrests in Assam
- FactImam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK) is a radical offshoot of the banned Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB)
- FactIMK was formed in 2018 by Jewel Mahmud (Imam Mahmud Habibullah)
- FactIMK is allegedly linked to Ansarullah Bangla Team and Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the security challenges posed by the radicalization of extremist groups across porous borders and the role of intelligence sharing in neutralizing such threats.
- Cross-border radicalization: Influence of regional extremist groups like Ansarullah Bangla Team on Northeast India
- Digital recruitment: Use of encrypted social media platforms for clandestine financing and radicalization
- Intelligence coordination: Necessity of seamless data sharing between central agencies and state Special Task Forces
Keywords: radicalization · transnational terrorism · intelligence-led policing · border security · counter-terrorism
Why in news: Security forces launched cordon and search operations in Poonch and Kishtwar districts following reports of possible terrorist movement.
The Army's Romeo Force conducted searches at Khanetar Top along the Indo-Pak border using drones and sniffer dogs. Police activated Village Defence Guards and border police to secure the Pathankot-Jammu-Srinagar highway.
Prelims pointers (3)
- PlaceKishtwar and Poonch are districts in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
- FactVillage Defence Guards are local volunteers activated to assist police in security measures.
- PlaceKhanetar Top is a location situated along the Indo-Pak border.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in managing border security and counter-insurgency operations in the mountainous hinterlands of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Terrain constraints: Difficulty of monitoring porous mountainous borders and dense hinterlands using conventional surveillance.
- Intelligence-led policing: Need for real-time data integration between local police and specialized Army units.
- Community engagement: Balancing the role of local Village Defence Guards with the need for professional security oversight.
Keywords: counter-insurgency · border management · asymmetric warfare · internal security · intelligence-led policing
GS3Science & Technology › IT, AI, semiconductors & computingMains Why in news: The Hindu Editorial highlighted that while India regulates AI through the IT Act and financial/data rules, it lacks a dedicated consumer safety regime regarding the state's duty of care.
India currently regulates AI use via the IT Act and Rules, financial sector regulations, and data protection rules. The editorial notes a specific absence of a consumer safety regime addressing the state's duty of care for AI applications.
Prelims pointers (3)
- S&TIndia regulates AI use through the IT Act and Rules.
- FactCurrent AI regulation includes financial sector regulations and data protection rules.
- BodyIndia currently lacks a dedicated consumer safety regime for AI duty of care.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the necessity of a dedicated consumer safety regime for Artificial Intelligence in India to balance technological innovation with the state's duty of care.
- Regulatory gap: Absence of specific consumer safety frameworks for AI-driven harms
- Legal ambiguity: Reliance on existing IT Act vs. specialized AI-specific legislation
- Duty of care: Defining state liability in automated decision-making and algorithmic bias
Keywords: Duty of care · Regulatory framework · Algorithmic accountability · Consumer protection · Digital governance
GS3Science & Technology › Space technology (ISRO, missions)Prelims Why in news: ISRO and astronomer Dr. Jonathan McDowell reported that the Moon's gravitational influence significantly altered the orbit of the Chandrayaan-3 propulsion module in November 2025.
The Chandrayaan-3 propulsion module experienced a close encounter with the Moon in November 2025. The resulting new orbit is described as much larger, tilted, and more extreme than its previous trajectory.
Prelims pointers (3)
- S&TChandrayaan-3 propulsion module orbit was altered by lunar gravitational influence in November 2025
- S&TThe event provided insights into disturbance torque effects in spaceflight
- FactThe module's new orbit is larger and more tilted than its previous trajectory
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of lunar gravitational perturbations and disturbance torque effects in the precision navigation of deep-space missions.
- Orbital mechanics: Gravitational influence of celestial bodies on spacecraft trajectory stability
- Navigation precision: Managing disturbance torque effects during lunar proximity maneuvers
Keywords: Orbital Mechanics · Gravitational Perturbation · Disturbance Torque · Space Exploration · Trajectory Analysis
GS3Agriculture › Cropping patterns & irrigationPrelims Why in news: Gujarat emerged as India's leading okra producer in 2023–24, driven by significant cultivation growth in the Saurashtra-Kutch region.
Gujarat ranked first in both area under cultivation and production of okra in 2023–24. The state contributed 7.66% to India's total vegetable production in 2024–25, with the Saurashtra-Kutch region producing nearly 1.5 lakh tonnes across 12 districts.
Prelims pointers (4)
- FactGujarat contributed 7.66% to India's total vegetable production in 2024–25
- PlaceSaurashtra-Kutch region is a primary hub for okra production in Gujarat
- SchemeMission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and National Horticulture Mission (NHM) support horticulture growth
- FactGujarat produced nearly 1.5 lakh tonnes of okra across 12 districts in 2024–25
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of state-led horticultural missions in enhancing India's vegetable production and ensuring food security.
- Market integration: Linking regional production hubs like Saurashtra-Kutch to national supply chains
- Policy synergy: Impact of MIDH and NHM on diversifying crop patterns in arid and semi-arid regions
Keywords: Horticultural production · Crop diversification · MIDH · National Horticulture Mission · Agricultural output
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