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With an ambitious target of **₹17,900 crore** for FY 2025–26, the BRO continues to serve as the silent sentinel of India’s frontiers, binding the nation’s borders with its heartland through engineering excellence.\n\n## What is the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)?\n\nEstablished on **May 7, 1960**, with the creed **“Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam”** (Through hard work, all things are possible), the BRO is the premier agency for border infrastructure.\n\n- **Administrative Control:** Since 2015–16, it functions fully under the **Ministry of Defence**.\n- **Human Capital:** A unique fusion of military precision (Indian Army engineers and **General Reserve Engineer Force - GREF**) and civilian craftsmanship.\n- **Internal Reach:** Operates 18 field projects across 11 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs).\n\n## Legacy and Impact (As of 2025)\n\nOver six decades, the BRO has built a formidable network across some of the world's most challenging terrains:\n- **Roads:** Over **64,100 km**.\n- **Bridges:** **1,179** structures.\n- **Tunnels:** **7** major tunnels.\n- **Airfields:** **22** strategic airfields.\n\nIn the 2024–2025 period alone, the BRO dedicated **356 infrastructure projects** to the nation, significantly boosting defence preparedness and socio-economic development under initiatives like the **Vibrant Villages Programme**.\n\n## Key Strategic Assets\n\n### 1. Tunnels\n- **Atal Tunnel (Himachal Pradesh):** 9.02 km long; world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft, enabling all-weather Leh–Manali connectivity.\n- **Sela Tunnel (Arunachal Pradesh):** Located at 13,000 ft, ensure uninterrupted access to Tawang.\n- **Nechiphu Tunnel:** Bypasses a fog-prone section on the Balipara–Charduar–Tawang route.\n- **Shinku La Tunnel:** (Ongoing) To provide all-weather connectivity to Ladakh.\n\n### 2. Major Bridges \u0026 Airfields\n- **Devak Bridge (J\u0026K):** A 422.9 m link strengthening troop and heavy vehicle transit.\n- **Sisseri \u0026 Siyom Bridges (Arunachal):** Strengthen logistics along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).\n- **Bagdogra \u0026 Barrackpore Airfields:** Reconstructed in 2023 to enhance IAF operational readiness.\n\n## Neighbourhood Diplomacy: Overseas Projects\n\nThe BRO serves as a tool for India's **Act East** and development-led diplomacy through key overseas missions:\n- **Project DANTAK (Bhutan):** Launched in 1961; developed Paro and Yonphula airports and extensive road networks.\n- **Delaram-Zaranj Highway (Afghanistan):** Provided Afghanistan access to Iran’s Port of Chabahar.\n- **India-Myanmar Friendship Road:** A 160 km link connecting Moreh to Kalewa.\n- **Farkhor \u0026 Ayni Air Bases (Tajikistan):** Strategic reconstruction projects enhancing India’s regional reach.\n\n## Disaster Resilience and Humanitarian Aid (HADR)\n\nThe BRO is often the **first responder** during high-altitude calamities:\n- **Fastest Snow Clearance:** In 2023, Zoji La was cleared in a record **68 days**.\n- **Bridge of Compassion:** Re-established access to Reini (Uttarakhand) in just 26 days after the Rishiganga floods.\n- **Operational Doctrine:** Integrates HADR to safeguard national security while ensuring civil resilience.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), consider the following statements:**\n1. The BRO functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.\n2. 'Project DANTAK' is an overseas mission of the BRO aimed at infrastructure development in Bhutan.\n3. The Atal Tunnel is the world's longest highway tunnel located above an altitude of 10,000 feet.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the BRO has been functioning fully under the Ministry of Defence since 2015-16. Statement 2 is correct (DANTAK in Bhutan since 1961). Statement 3 is correct (Atal Tunnel is 9.02 km long and above 10,000 ft).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The Border Roads Organisation is not just a construction agency but a vital instrument of India's strategic autonomy and neighborhood diplomacy.\" Comment.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"e:T1393,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)** is strengthening India’s semiconductor ecosystem through the **Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme**. As global demand for semiconductors is projected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2030, India is positioning itself as a pivotal contributor by addressing the global talent shortfall and fostering indigenous chip design.\n\n## What is the Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme?\n\nLaunched in 2022, the C2S Programme is an umbrella capacity-building initiative aimed at transforming India’s semiconductor design landscape. It democratizes access to advanced design capabilities for students, researchers, and entrepreneurs across the country.\n\n**Key Facts:**\n- **Nodal Ministry:** Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).\n- **Financial Outlay:** Total outlay of **₹250 crore** over five years.\n- **Participation:** Includes 305 academic institutions and 95 startups (under the DLI Scheme).\n- **Target:** Development of **85,000 industry-ready professionals** across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.\n\n## Programme Objectives and Targets\n\nThe C2S programme adopts a comprehensive approach, providing hands-on experience in chip design, fabrication, and testing. It aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical semiconductor design workflows.\n\n**Specific Workforce Targets:**\n- **200 PhD scholars** in advanced chip design research.\n- **7,000 M. Tech graduates** specializing in VLSI or Embedded Systems.\n- **8,800 M. Tech graduates** with focused VLSI exposure.\n- **69,000 B. Tech students** trained through VLSI-oriented coursework.\n\n**Additional Goals:**\n- Incubation of **25 start-ups**.\n- Enabling **10 technology transfers**.\n- Generating **50 patents** and supporting **2,000 research publications**.\n- Providing access to **SMART lab facilities**.\n\n## Institutional Framework\n\nA coordinated framework ensures the successful implementation of the C2S programme:\n\n| Institution | Role in C2S Programme |\n|-------------|-----------------------|\n| **MeitY** | Provides policy direction, funding, and programme oversight. |\n| **C-DAC (ChipIN Centre)** | Located in Bengaluru, it serves as the national hub, providing shared access to EDA tools, IP libraries, and technical mentoring. |\n| **SCL, Mohali** | Facilitates fabrication of student-designed chips using **180 nm technology** through shared wafer runs. |\n| **NIELIT** | Operates the **SMART Lab** (NIELIT Calicut) and offers certification courses. |\n\n## Key Outcomes and Achievements\n\nThe programme has already delivered measurable results in strengthening India's domestic capabilities:\n- **Training:** Over **1 lakh individuals** have enrolled, with approximately **67,000 trained** so far.\n- **Tool Usage:** Shared national EDA infrastructure has seen more than **175 lakh hours** of usage.\n- **Fabrication:** 6 shared wafer runs resulted in **122 chip design submissions**, with **56 student-designed chips** successfully fabricated and delivered.\n- **Innovation:** Participating institutions have filed **75+ patents** and are developing **500+ IP cores**, ASICs, and SoC designs.\n- **Infrastructure:** Access to the **PARAM Utkarsh supercomputer** and FPGA boards for design validation.\n\n## Significance\n\nThe C2S programme is a strategic pillar for India's technological self-reliance:\n- **Addressing Talent Gap:** Helps meet the global requirement for over 1 million skilled professionals by 2032.\n- **Indigenous Innovation:** Catalyses the development of IPs, ASICs, and SoCs for strategic sectors like defence, telecom, and automotive.\n- **Democratization:** Empowers institutions irrespective of location to participate in high-end semiconductor research.\n- **Economic Growth:** Positions India as a credible and competitive hub in the global semiconductor value chain.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme', consider the following statements:**\n1. It is a capacity-building initiative launched by the Ministry of Science and Technology.\n2. The programme targets the development of 85,000 industry-ready professionals over five years.\n3. The ChipIN Centre at C-DAC Bengaluru provides shared semiconductor design infrastructure under this programme.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the C2S Programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), not the Ministry of Science and Technology. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as per the programme guidelines and institutional framework.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"India's semiconductor ambitions rely heavily on talent development and infrastructure access.\" Discuss the significance of the Chips to Start-up (C2S) programme in building a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in India.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"f:T11e4,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe United Nations has declared **2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC)** under the theme **“Cooperatives Build a Better World”**. For India, this year marks a significant push toward the vision of **“Sahkar Se Samridhhi”** (Prosperity through Cooperation), aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy through a network of over 8.5 lakh cooperative societies.\n\n## What is the Cooperative Movement in India?\n\nCooperatives are member-owned and member-governed enterprises guided by shared economic, social, and cultural objectives. \n- **Scale**: India accounts for more than one-fourth of the world's cooperatives.\n- **Reach**: Over **8.5 lakh cooperatives** are registered (6.6 lakh operational), covering nearly 98% of rural India and serving **32 crore members**.\n- **Women’s Participation**: Nearly **10 crore women** are integrated into the cooperative framework through Self-Help Groups (SHGs).\n\n**Key Institutions:**\n- **Ministry of Cooperation**: Established on 6th July 2021 to provide focused national attention.\n- **Tribhuvan Sahkari University (TSU)**: India’s first national university for the cooperative sector (converted from IRMA).\n- **NCDC**: Disbursed over **₹95,000 crore** in FY 2025-26 to support production and processing.\n\n## Digitalization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)\n\nPACS are village-level institutions providing short-term credit. The government is modernizing them through an **ERP-based national software platform**.\n\n- **Implementation**: ₹2,925.39 crore project to computerize functional PACS (2022-23 to 2026-27).\n- **Progress**: Hardware delivered to **65,151 PACS**; hardware includes computers, VPNs, and biometric devices.\n- **Multipurpose Roles**: PACS now function as Common Service Centres (CSCs), Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and retail petrol outlets.\n\n## New National-Level Multi-State Societies\n\nThe government has established three specialized cooperatives to boost the rural economy:\n\n1. **BBSSL (Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited)**: Focuses on seed certification and branding under the **“Bharat Beej”** label. 31,605 societies are enrolled.\n2. **NCOL (National Cooperative Organics Limited)**: Apex body for organic farming, marketing 28 products under the **“Bharat Organics”** brand.\n3. **NCEL (National Co-operative Exports Limited)**: Facilitates exports. In Q3 FY 2025-26, it exported agri-commodities worth **₹5,556 crore** to 28 countries.\n\n## Strategic Initiatives\n\n- **World’s Largest Decentralised Grain Storage Plan**: Launched in 2023 to address storage deficits at the grassroots. Godowns have been completed in 112 PACS.\n- **White Revolution 2.0**: Launched in late 2024 to increase milk procurement by 50% in five years.\n- **Sahakar Taxi**: India’s first cooperative-led mobility platform promoted by Amul, NAFED, and others.\n- **National Cooperation Policy (NCP) 2025**: Launched on 24th July 2025 to modernize the movement for *Viksit Bharat 2047*.\n\n## Significance\n\n- **Decentralized Development**: Empowers rural producers (milk, fish, artisans) by providing direct market linkage.\n- **Financial Inclusion**: Use of **Micro-ATMs** and **Rupay Kisan Credit Cards** for cooperative members.\n- **Food Security**: The integration of PACS as FPOs allows them to undertake diversified agricultural economic activities.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the cooperative sector in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives with the theme “Sahkar Se Samridhhi”.\n2. The Tribhuvan Sahkari University is India's first national university dedicated to the cooperative sector.\n3. Every functional Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS) is being digitally linked with NABARD through a common ERP platform.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the UN theme is “Cooperatives Build a Better World”; “Sahkar Se Samridhhi” is the Indian government's vision. Statement 2 is correct (TSU was setup by converting IRMA). Statement 3 is correct as the ₹2,925 crore project integrates PACS with NABARD via state/district banks.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Cooperatives are the backbone of a participatory economy.\" Discuss how the 'Sahkar Se Samriddhi' vision and recent digital reforms in PACS can address the challenges of rural livelihoods in India.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"10:Tec9,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndian Railways has significantly expanded its **Amrit Bharat Express** network with the addition of **nine new services**, bringing the total number of operational trains to **39** (30 operational since December 2023). This flagship initiative of the **Amrit Kaal** aims to provide affordable, comfortable, and reliable long-distance travel for common passengers.\n\n## What is Amrit Bharat Express?\n\nThe Amrit Bharat Express is a modern, **non-AC long-distance sleeper class** train service designed by Indian Railways to address the mobility needs of the general public, particularly during peak migration and festive seasons.\n\n**Key Features:**\n- **Coach Configuration:** Typically configured with 22 coaches:\n  - **11 General Class** coaches.\n  - **8 Sleeper Class** coaches.\n  - **1 Pantry Car**.\n  - **2 Second Class–cum–Luggage–cum–Guard Vans** (with disabled-friendly compartments).\n- **Affordability:** Fares are priced at approximately **₹500 per 1,000 kilometres**.\n- **Transparent Pricing:** Follows a simple fare structure with **no dynamic pricing**, ensuring predictable costs for short, medium, and long-distance journeys.\n\n## Broadening the National Reach\n\nThe latest expansion targets critical corridors connecting the Northeast, North, South, and Western India. Notable new routes include:\n\n- **Kamakhya-Rohtak:** Links Assam with Haryana, serving six states.\n- **Dibrugarh-Lucknow:** Strengthens the \"Purvodaya se Bharat Uday\" vision by linking frontier regions with Uttar Pradesh.\n- **New Jalpaiguri-Nagercoil:** Connects the eastern Himalayan foothills (Dooars) with the southern tip of India (Kanyakumari).\n- **Alipurduar-Bengaluru:** Directly links a strategic border district with India’s technology capital.\n- **Santragachi-Tambaram:** Improves access to education and healthcare hubs across West Bengal, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu.\n- **Sealdah-Banaras:** Daily service linking Kolkata with major spiritual centers like Kashi Vishwanath.\n\n## Significance for India\n\n1. **Economic Integration:** Enhances employment mobility by connecting labor-surplus regions with industrial and tech capitals like Mumbai and Bengaluru.\n2. **Tourism Development:** Routes are strategically planned to pass near major spiritual and cultural hubs (e.g., Kamakhya Temple, Ayodhya, Konark Sun Temple).\n3. **Inclusive Growth:** By focusing on the **non-AC segment**, the service ensures that the benefits of modern rail technology reach the \"common man.\"\n4. **National Integration:** Massive corridors (e.g., New Jalpaiguri to Nagercoil) bridge the geographic divide, fostering social cohesion across diverse landscapes.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Amrit Bharat Express', consider the following statements:**\n1. It is a premium high-speed train service consisting exclusively of AC-3 Tier and AC-2 Tier coaches.\n2. The fare structure is based on a dynamic pricing model similar to that of Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains.\n3. It features dedicated compartments designed to be disabled-friendly.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because Amrit Bharat Express is a fully non-AC service (General and Sleeper classes). Statement 2 is incorrect because the service follows a transparent fare structure with no dynamic pricing. Statement 3 is correct as it includes Second Class–cum–Luggage–cum–Guard Vans with disabled-friendly compartments.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Modernizing rail infrastructure for the non-AC segment is a critical step toward achieving equitable growth in India.\" Analyze this statement in light of the launch of Amrit Bharat Express.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"11:Tf8a,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Vande Bharat Express** platform has reached a significant milestone with **164 trainsets** operational across 274 districts by December 2025. Moving into **January 2026**, the Indian Railways is set to launch the **Vande Bharat Sleeper** variant, marking a shift from medium-distance day travel to long-distance overnight connectivity.\n\n## What is Vande Bharat Express?\n\nVande Bharat is India’s first **indigenously designed and manufactured** semi-high-speed trainset. Built at the **Integral Coach Factory (ICF)** with approximately **90% localisation**, it is a flagship project of the **Make in India** initiative.\n\n**Key Technical Specifications:**\n- **Speed:** Designed for a maximum speed of **160–180 kmph**.\n- **Ride Quality:** Uses semi-permanent jerk-free couplers and improved suspension.\n- **Sustainability:** Features **regenerative braking** and UV-C lamp-based disinfection systems.\n- **Safety:** Integrated with **KAVACH**, India’s indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system certified to **SIL-4** standards.\n\n## Evolution of the Vande Bharat Platform\n\nThe platform is evolving through progressive iterations to enhance performance and passenger experience:\n\n- **Version 1.0 (2019):** Launched on the New Delhi–Varanasi route (15 Feb 2019).\n- **Version 2.0 (2022):** Lighter model (392 tonnes vs 430 tonnes) with faster acceleration.\n- **Version 3.0 (Current):** Achieves **0–100 kmph in 52 seconds**, comparable to global standards in Japan and Europe.\n- **Version 4.0 (Upcoming):** Envisaged to incorporate **KAVACH 5.0** and designed for future dedicated high-speed corridors.\n\n## Vande Bharat Sleeper: The Latest Milestone\n\nScheduled for launch in **January 2026**, the Sleeper variant extends the platform's utility to long-distance travel.\n- **Inaugural Route:** Howrah (West Bengal) to Guwahati (Assam).\n- **Time Saving:** Reducing travel time from 17 hours to **14 hours** (estimated savings of 3 hours).\n- **Configuration:** 16 AC coaches (1 AC First Class, 4 AC Two-Tier, 11 AC Three-Tier) with a capacity of **823 passengers**.\n\n## Onboard Cuisine and Regional Identity\n\nFrom December 2025, Indian Railways introduced regional cuisines to reflect India’s diverse culinary heritage. Passengers can now enjoy local specialties such as **Kanda Poha** (Maharashtra), **Kodi Kura** (Andhra Pradesh), **Methi Thepla** (Gujarat), and **Kesar Phirni** (Kashmir) depending on the route.\n\n## Looking Ahead: 2030 and 2047 Targets\n\nThe government has outlined a clear roadmap for scaling domestic rail manufacturing:\n- **By 2030:** Target of operating **800** Vande Bharat trainsets.\n- **By 2047 (Viksit Bharat):** Goal to scale the fleet to **4,500** trainsets, serving as a pillar of economic integration and sustainable mobility.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Vande Bharat Express', consider the following statements:**\n1. It is India's first indigenously designed semi-high-speed trainset with nearly 90% localisation.\n2. The 'KAVACH' system integrated into the train is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system.\n3. The latest 'Sleeper' variant of Vande Bharat is designed to operate on the inaugural route between New Delhi and Varanasi.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 1 and 2 only.\n*Reasoning: Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect because the inaugural route for the Vande Bharat Sleeper (launched Jan 2026) is between Howrah and Guwahati. New Delhi–Varanasi was the first route for the original day-chair version launched in 2019.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Modern transport systems like Vande Bharat are critical enablers of economic integration and inclusive national development.\" Analyze the significance of indigenously developed rail technology for India's aim of achieving 'Atmanirbharta' by 2047.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"12:T131b,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nNational Startup Day on **January 16, 2026**, marks a landmark decade of the **Startup India Initiative**. Launched in 2016, the initiative has evolved from a policy framework into a global-scale ecosystem, supporting India’s march toward **Viksit Bharat 2047** through innovation and inclusive growth.\n\n## The Decade in Numbers (As of December 2025)\n\nOver the past ten years, India has emerged as one of the world’s largest and most diverse startup ecosystems.\n\n- **Growth:** Recognized startups increased from just four privately held companies valued above $1 billion in 2014 to over **120 unicorns** today.\n- **Valuation:** The combined valuation of these firms exceeds **$350 billion**.\n- **Volume:** There are now over **2 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups**.\n- **Democratization:** Around **50%** of recognized startups originate from **Tier-II and Tier-III cities**, signaling a shift away from just major hubs like Bengaluru and Mumbai.\n- **Inclusivity:** More than **45%** of recognized startups have at least one woman Director/Partner.\n\n## Flagship Schemes \u0026 Support Pillars\n\nThe Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (**DPIIT**) leads the initiative with several targeted financial and mentorship platforms:\n\n### 1. Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)\n- **Corpus:** ₹10,000 crore, managed by **SIDBI**.\n- **Mechanism:** Supports SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), which then invest in startups.\n- **Impact:** Over ₹25,500 crore has been invested in 1,370+ startups through 140 AIFs.\n\n### 2. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)\n- **Corpus:** ₹945 crore.\n- **Focus:** Financial assistance for Proof of Concept, prototyping, product trials, and market entry.\n- **Reach:** Approved for 215+ incubators to support early-stage ventures.\n\n### 3. Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)\n- Provides **collateral-free loans** through eligible financial institutions.\n- Operationalized by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (**NCGTC**) Limited.\n\n### 4. Digital Support Platforms\n- **MAARG Portal:** Mentorship, Advisory, Assistance, Resilience, and Growth platform for strategic guidance.\n- **Startup India Investor Connect Portal:** Developed with SIDBI to link startups with venture capital funds.\n- **Startup India Hub:** A single-point digital platform for all stakeholders to discover and engage.\n\n## Multi-Ministry Ecosystem Support\n\nBeyond DPIIT, various ministries have developed specialized frameworks to foster innovation:\n\n- **Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):** Launched by NITI Aayog in 2016. **AIM 2.0 (2024)** focuses on scaling proven models and addressing ecosystem gaps. It supports over 10,000 **Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs)** across 733 districts.\n- **GENESIS (MeitY):** Targeted at scaling 1,600 tech startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities with a ₹490 crore outlay.\n- **NIDHI (Dept. of Science \u0026 Technology):** An umbrella program for knowledge-based startups, supporting 12,000+ ventures and generating 1.3 lakh+ jobs.\n- **SVEP (Ministry of Rural Development):** A sub-scheme of DAY-NRLM promoting rural entrepreneurship, supporting 3.74 lakh enterprises.\n- **ASPIRE (Ministry of MSME):** Sets up Livelihood Business Incubators (LBIs) in rural and underserved areas.\n\n## Significance of the Startup Revolution\n\n1. **Economic Transformation:** Startups are driving productivity and helping India advance toward a **$7.3 trillion economy by 2030**.\n2. **Employment Generation:** Leveraging the young demographic dividend to create direct and indirect jobs (gig work and supply chains).\n3. **Inclusive Development:** Bridging the rural-urban divide via solutions in agri-tech, telemedicine, and microfinance.\n4. **Social Equity:** High participation of women-led ventures and grassroots entrepreneurs.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Startup India ecosystem as of 2025-26, consider the following statements:**\n1. India has more than 2 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups.\n2. The majority (over 70%) of these recognized startups are currently concentrated in Tier-I cities.\n3. The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) is managed directly by SIDBI.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 only\n(b) 1 and 2 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 1 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct (2 lakh+ startups). Statement 2 is incorrect because the source states around 50% are from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, not a 70% concentration in Tier-I. Statement 3 is incorrect; while FFS is managed by SIDBI, SISFS is overseen by an Expert Advisory Committee (EAC) under DPIIT.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The Startup India Initiative has transitioned from a policy-led push to a self-sustaining ecosystem driving regional and social inclusivity.\" Discuss this statement in the context of India's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"13:T11ae,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia is witnessing a significant \"tunnelling boom,\" driven by the expansion of national highways, strategic border infrastructure, and urban metro networks. These projects represent more than just construction; they reflect the nation's determination to overcome geographical barriers and ensure all-weather connectivity to remote regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.\n\n## Why Tunnel Infrastructure Matters\n\nTunnels offer smarter, safer, and more sustainable alternatives to traditional surface routes, especially in fragile terrains.\n- **Regional Development:** Connects isolated communities to markets and essential services.\n- **National Security:** Strengthens the strategic reach of the Armed Forces in border areas.\n- **Economic Growth:** Reduces travel time and logistics costs by bypassing long mountain passes.\n- **Sustainability:** Offers a lower environmental footprint compared to cutting extensive surface roads in sensitive geologies.\n\n## Key Technologies Driving the Revolution\n\nModern Indian tunnels have transitioned from traditional drill-and-blast methods to sophisticated, safety-integrated corridors.\n\n- **Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs):** Used for precision in metro networks and undersea sections (e.g., Kolkata and Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail).\n- **New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM):** Widely used in the Himalayas, it allows for real-time adaptation of excavation support based on rock conditions.\n- **Integrated Tunnel Control Systems (ITCS):** Centralized digital platforms managing ventilation, fire detection, and emergency communications.\n\n## Landmark Operational Tunnels\n\n| Tunnel | Length | Key Features |\n|--------|--------|--------------|\n| **Atal Tunnel** | 9.02 km | World's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet; connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti. |\n| **Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel** | 9 km | Formerly Chenani-Nashri; twin-tube tunnel in J\u0026K bypassing 41 km of road length. |\n| **Banihal–Qazigund Road Tunnel** | 8.45 km | Twin-tube tunnel connecting Jammu and Kashmir; reduced distance by 16 km. |\n| **Sela Tunnel** | - | Located at 13,000 feet on the Tezpur-Tawang route; key for Arunachal border connectivity. |\n| **Tunnel T50** | 12.77 km | Longest transportation tunnel under the USBRL rail project in J\u0026K. |\n| **Kolkata Underwater Metro** | - | India's first underwater metro tunnel beneath the Hooghly River. |\n\n## Upcoming Mega-Projects\n\n1. **Zojila Tunnel (2028):** Set to become Asia’s longest bi-directional road tunnel (over 30 km project area) at 11,578 feet, providing all-weather access to Ladakh.\n2. **Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Tunnel:** Features a **4.8-km undersea section**, a first for India’s defines bullet-train route.\n3. **Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Tunnels:** Spanning 125 km in Uttarakhand, predominantly tunnel-based (105 km cumulative length) to protect the Himalayan ecology.\n\n## Significance for India\n\n- **All-Weather Lifeline:** Prevents the seasonal isolation of J\u0026K and Ladakh during winter snowfall and avalanches.\n- **Engineering Prowess:** Demonstrates India’s capability to build in extreme temperatures (ranging from -25°C to 45°C inside Atal Tunnel).\n- **Logistics Efficiency:** The Sonamarg paired with Zojila will increase speeds from 30 km/hr to 70 km/hr.\n- **Employment:** Projects like the Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee tunnel drew 94% of its workforce from local J\u0026K regions.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to tunnel infrastructure in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. The Atal Tunnel is officially recognized as the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet.\n2. The New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) is primarily used for underwater metro projects in soft soil.\n3. Tunnel T50 is part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 1 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct (recognized by World Book of Records UK). Statement 2 is incorrect because TBMs are typically used for soft soil/underwater, while NATM is preferred for challenging rock formations in the Himalayas. Statement 3 is correct.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Tunnels are the strategic arteries of India’s integrated infrastructure vision.\" Discuss how modern tunnelling technology is addressing the dual challenges of national security and environmental sustainability in the Himalayan region.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"14:T11f0,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia’s logistics sector has achieved a significant milestone, with logistics costs being reduced to **7.97% of GDP**. This shift towards global benchmarks is driven by the **PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan**, which integrates railways, highways, ports, and airports. A central pillar of this vision is the development of **Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs)** to ensure seamless freight movement and industry competitiveness.\n\n## What are Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs)?\n\nGCTs are modern facilities developed under the **GCT Policy, 2021** of the Ministry of Railways. They serve as hubs where goods are transferred between trains and other modes of transport (road, ports, etc.), eliminating delays and reducing costs associated with scattered freight movement.\n\n**Key Features:**\n- **Regulatory Framework:** Established under the GCT Policy (15 December 2021).\n- **Engine-on-Load (EOL):** Locomotives stay at the terminal during loading/unloading to ensure immediate departure.\n- **Modern Handling:** Equipped with silos and mechanized systems to minimize handling time.\n- **Sustainability:** Rail transport produces 90% lower carbon emissions compared to road transport.\n\n## The Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Policy, 2021\n\nThe policy aims to accelerate terminal development by streamlining approval processes and encouraging private participation.\n\n**Key Incentives:**\n- **Cost Exemptions:** Waiver of departmental charges, land license fees, and commercial staff costs.\n- **Infrastructure Support:** Railways construct common-user facilities at serving stations.\n- **Freight Rebates:** Terminals generating 1 million tonnes or more of outward traffic get a **10% freight rebate**.\n- **Asset Maintenance:** Railways maintain tracks, signalling, and Overhead Equipment (OHE), excluding certain yard lines.\n\n## Progress and Measurable Outcomes\n\nSince the inception of the GCT Policy, the initiative has translated into visible results:\n- **Terminals:** Indian Railways has approved **306 GCTs**, of which **118 are already commissioned**.\n- **Capacity:** The commissioned terminals have a combined handling capacity of **192 million tonnes per annum**.\n- **Private Investment:** Approximately **₹8,600 crore** of private investment has been mobilized.\n- **Revenue:** Freight revenues grew fourfold between 2022–23 and 2024–25, reaching **₹12,608 crore**.\n- **Environmental Impact:** Since 2014, shifting 2,672 million tonnes of freight to rail has saved **143.3 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions**.\n\n## Key Examples of GCTs\n- **Manesar (Haryana):** The country’s largest automobile GCT, capable of handling **4.5 lakh automobiles annually**.\n- **New Sanjali (Gujarat):** The first facility built on private land under the Gati Shakti Policy along the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC).\n- **Northeast (Assam):** Terminals like **Moinarband** and **Cinnamara** are vital for handling coal, fertilizers, and food grains.\n\n## Significance\n\n- **Logistics Efficiency:** Connects rail, road, and ports to reduce bottlenecks and turnaround time.\n- **Make in India:** Supports domestic manufacturing by lowering the cost of doing business.\n- **Regional Growth:** Identification of terminal locations across diverse states ensures balanced development.\n- **Green Logistics:** Directly supports India's decarbonization goals by shifting freight to energy-efficient rail.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Consider the following statements regarding Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs):**\n1. They are developed under a policy introduced by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.\n2. The 'Engine-on-Load' (EOL) system is used to minimize detentions and ensure optimal infrastructure use.\n3. Terminals developed on private land are not eligible for incentives under the GCT Policy.\n\n**Which of the statements given above is/are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect as the GCT Policy was introduced by the Ministry of Railways. Statement 2 is correct (EOL is a key feature). Statement 3 is incorrect; the policy encourages private participation, and terminals like New Sanjali in Gujarat have been built on private land under this policy.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Modernizing cargo terminals is not just about infrastructure, but about integrating India's fragmented logistics chain.\" Discuss how Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) contribute to achieving single-digit logistics costs for India.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"15:T113c,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **PRAGATI** (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform recently marked its **50th meeting milestone**, completing a decade of transforming India's governance landscape. Since its launch in 2015, the platform has been instrumental in fast-tracking major national projects worth more than **₹85 lakh crore**.\n\n## What is PRAGATI?\n\nPRAGATI is an integrated and interactive platform designed to monitor and review key programs and projects of the Government of India, along with projects highlighted by State Governments. It also serves as a mechanism for addressing citizen grievances.\n\n**Key Features:**\n- **Three-Tier System:** It brings together the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Union Government Secretaries, and Chief Secretaries of States.\n- **Technology Integration:** Uniquely combines **digital data management**, **video conferencing**, and **geo-spatial technology**.\n- **Real-Time Monitoring:** Allows the Prime Minister to directly engage with officials with up-to-date visual evidence from project sites.\n- **Integration:** It incorporates other platforms like **PM GatiShakti**, **PARIVESH**, and the **PM Ref Portal**.\n\n## The Evolution: From SWAGAT to PRAGATI\n\nThe concept of PRAGATI is inspired by **SWAGAT** (State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology), which was launched in Gujarat in **April 2003**. \n\n- **SWAGAT:** Focused primarily on grievance redressal at the state level.\n- **PRAGATI:** Scaled the underlying discipline of SWAGAT to the national level, expanding the focus from individual grievances to driving delivery across complex, multi-agency infrastructure projects.\n\n## Decade of Impact: Key Statistics\n\nOver the last decade, PRAGATI has reshaped bureaucratic processes and accountability:\n- **Total Project Value:** Over **₹85 lakh crore** worth of projects fast-tracked.\n- **Projects Reviewed:** **382 major national projects** have been systematically monitored.\n- **Issue Resolution:** Out of **3,187 identified issues**, **2,958** have been resolved (approx. 92.8% resolution rate).\n- **Recent Milestone:** In its **50th meeting**, five critical projects across Road, Railways, Power, Water Resources, and Coal sectors (spanning 5 states) worth ₹40,000 crore were reviewed.\n\n## Landmark Projects Unlocked\n\nSeveral projects stalled for decades were decisively moved forward through PRAGATI interventions:\n- **Bogibeel Rail-cum-Road Bridge (Assam):** Conceived in 1997, completed in 2018.\n- **Navi Mumbai International Airport:** Conceptualized in 1997, phase I inaugurated in October 2025.\n- **Bhilai Steel Plant Modernization:** Approved in 2007; resolved 15-year delays.\n- **UER-II (Delhi):** Strategic road infrastructure project for Delhi-NCR mobility.\n- **Atal Setu (MTHL):** India's longest sea bridge (21.8 km) monitored under this framework.\n\n## Global Recognition\n\nOxford University’s **Said Business School** published a case study titled *\"From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress.\"* It highlighted PRAGATI as:\n- A global benchmark for real-time project monitoring.\n- A \"Single Source of Truth\" for inter-governmental coordination.\n- An institution in **cooperative federalism** that ensures apolitical, uniform attention to developmental goals.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform, consider the following statements:**\n1. It is a three-tier system involving the PMO, Central Secretaries, and State Chief Secretaries.\n2. It draws inspiration from the SWAGAT initiative launched in Gujarat in 2003.\n3. It integrates geo-spatial technology for real-time monitoring of project sites.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: All three statements are correct. PRAGATI integrates digital data, video conferencing, and GIS (geo-spatial) technology. It was inspired by the SWAGAT model from Gujarat and involves real-time coordination between the Centre and States.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"PRAGATI represents a shift from sequential dependence to modular execution in Indian governance.\" Discuss the significance of PRAGATI in strengthening cooperative federalism and accelerating infrastructure delivery in India.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"16:T1209,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nObserved annually on **January 12**, National Youth Day 2026 commemorates the birth anniversary of **Swami Vivekananda**. The 2026 edition highlights India's vast demographic dividend (65% population under 35) and the strategic shift toward making youth \"active partners\" in the vision of **Viksit Bharat @2047**.\n\n## Digital Gateway: MY Bharat Platform\n\nThe **Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)** platform, launched in 2023, has emerged as the central digital ecosystem for youth engagement.\n\n- **Registration Scale**: As of November 26, 2025, over **2.05 crore** youth have registered on the portal.\n- **MY Bharat 2.0**: An upgraded platform developed in collaboration with Digital India Corporation (DIC). It features a **Smart CV Builder**, AI Chatbots, and Voice-Assisted Navigation.\n- **Mobile First**: The MY Bharat App (launched Oct 2025) provides digital certificates and engagement badges for volunteering and leadership.\n\n## Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue (VBYLD)\n\nA reimagined version of the National Youth Festival, the second edition of VBYLD is held from **9–12 January 2026** at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.\n- **Participation**: Nearly 3,000 participants, including 100 international delegates.\n- **The Challenge Track**: A nationwide digital quiz saw participation from over **50.42 lakh youth**.\n- **Outcome**: Young leaders present solutions across **ten national priority themes** to the national leadership on National Youth Day.\n\n## Flagship Skilling \u0026 Employment Schemes\n\n### 1. PM-SETU (Launched Oct 2024/2025)\nThe **Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs** is a centrally sponsored scheme with an investment of **₹60,000 crore**.\n- **Model**: Upgrading 1,000 Government ITIs through a **hub-and-spoke model** (200 hubs, 800 spokes).\n- **Strategy**: A \"government-owned, industry-managed\" model to align vocational training with global standards.\n\n### 2. PMKVY 4.0 \u0026 Skill India\n- **Unified Scheme**: In Feb 2025, the restructured 'Skill India Programme' (₹8,800 crore outlay) merged PMKVY 4.0, NAPS, and JSS.\n- **Future Skills**: Shifted focus to **On-Job Training (OJT)** and cutting-edge fields like Robotics, AI, and Drone Technology.\n- **Achievement**: Over **1.64 crore** candidates have been trained under PMKVY since its 2015 inception.\n\n### 3. Agnipath \u0026 Entrepreneurship\n- **Agnipath**: Recruits youth (17.5–21 years) as Agniveers for 4 years. Up to **1.5 lakh** Agniveers were enrolled by Feb 2025.\n- **Startup India**: Recognised **1.97 lakh** startups as of Oct 2025, with a massive focus on Tier-II and Tier-III cities.\n- **PMMY (Mudra)**: Sanctioned **53.85 crore loans** (₹35.13 lakh crore) over 10 years, providing collateral-free credit up to ₹20 lakh.\n\n## Health, Fitness \u0026 Values\n\n- **Fit India Movement**: Focuses on behavioural change through initiatives like \"Sundays on Cycle\" and School Certification.\n- **Kashi Declaration (July 2025)**: A groundbreaking five-year roadmap for a **drug-free youth movement** (*Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat*).\n- **RKSK**: Focuses on adolescent health (10–19 years) across six domains, including mental health and substance misuse.\n\n## Significance for UPSC\n\nThe National Youth Day initiatives represent a move from **entitlement-based** to **participation-based** development. For UPSC, these schemes are critical examples of how India is leveraging its demographic dividend through integrated governance (inter-ministerial collaboration) and digital public infrastructure (MY Bharat).\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Regarding the youth empowerment initiatives in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. The PM-SETU scheme aims to upgrade 1,000 Government ITIs using a hub-and-spoke model.\n2. The MY Bharat 2.0 platform features a 'Smart CV Builder' and AI-driven chatbots for youth engagement.\n3. The Kashi Declaration (2025) provides a roadmap for the promotion of traditional Indian sports in rural areas.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 1 and 2 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 and 2 are correct as per the PM-SETU and MY Bharat 2.0 specs. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Kashi Declaration is specifically a national roadmap for a drug-free youth movement (Nasha Mukt Yuva).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"A demographic dividend is a time-limited opportunity that requires the alignment of education, skilling, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.\" Discuss this in the context of India's journey toward Viksit Bharat @2047.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"17:T120b,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)** between India and Oman signifies a landmark expansion of India's footprint in West Asia. Signed to deepen bilateral economic integration, the deal aims to leverage the USD 10.61 billion bilateral trade (FY 2024–25) by eliminating trade barriers and facilitating professional mobility.\n\n## What is the India–Oman CEPA?\n\nA CEPA is a wide-ranging trade pact that goes beyond traditional goods trade to cover services, investment, government procurement, and regulatory cooperation.\n- **Scope**: Includes Trade in Goods, Services, Investment, Professional Mobility, and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT/SPS).\n- **Status**: Secure 100% duty-free market access for Indian exports across 98.08% of tariff lines from Day One.\n\n**Key Points:**\n- **Immediate Gains**: 99.38% of India’s export value to Oman will enter duty-free.\n- **Improved Performance**: Currently, only 15.33% of India's exports enter Oman at zero duty under the MFN regime.\n- **Services Depth**: Oman has committed to market access across **127 services sub-sectors**.\n\n## Strategic Pillars of the Agreement\n\n### 1. Market Access in Goods\nIndia gains an edge over competitors in a USD 28 billion import market.\n- **Key Sectors**: Engineering goods, chemicals, textiles, plastics, and gems \u0026 jewellery.\n- **Engineering Gains**: All products (machinery, automobiles, steel) move from 0–5% duties to binding zero-duty access.\n\n### 2. The Services Frontier\nOman has offered \"GATS/Best FTA-plus\" commitments to Indian service providers.\n- **ICT Ceiling**: The **Intra-Corporate Transferees (ICT)** ceiling has been raised from 20% to **50%**, allowing Indian MNCs to deploy more specialists.\n- **Professional Categories**: For the first time, Oman has committed to specific categories like doctors, engineers, IT professionals, and consultants.\n- **Traditional Medicine**: A dedicated annex covers cooperation in health and traditional medicine.\n\n### 3. Pharmaceutical Fast-Tracking\nOman recognizes India as a global pharmacy.\n- **Quick Authorization**: Pharmaceutical products approved by stringent regulators (USFDA, EMA, etc.) will receive marketing authorization within **90 days**.\n- **Bound Duties**: Zero-duty access for finished medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).\n\n## Safeguards and Calibrated Liberalization\n\nTo protect domestic farmers and sensitive industries, India has adopted an **Exclusion List**:\n- **Protected Items**: Dairy products, cereals, fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and natural honey are excluded from immediate tariff concessions.\n- **Sensitive Industries**: Rubber, petroleum oils, and certain textiles are placed in the exclusion list to safeguard manufacturing competitiveness.\n\n## Significance\n\n- **Gateway to the Gulf**: Oman serves as a strategic gateway for Indian products to the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and African markets.\n- **State-Wise Gains**: Significant export opportunities for states like Gujarat (Potatoes), Uttar Pradesh (Meat), Punjab (Honey), and Tamil Nadu (Eggs).\n- **Strategic Mobility**: A first-of-its-kind provision on mobility in **Non-Services sectors** protects Indian industrial workers from the unpredictability of \"Omanisation\" policies.\n- **Employment**: Boosts labor-intensive clusters in Surat, Tirupur, Ludhiana, and Jaipur by improving price competitiveness in the global market.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)' between India and Oman, consider the following statements:**\n1. Only 50% of India's current export value to Oman will gain duty-free access under this agreement.\n2. The agreement includes a first-of-its-kind provision for the mobility of industrial workers in non-services sectors.\n3. Domestic dairy and cereal products are part of the 'Exclusion List' to protect Indian farmers.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the CEPA secures 100% duty-free access for 99.38% of India's export value. Statement 2 is correct; it offers binding assurances for Indian industrial workers. Statement 3 is also correct as dairy and cereals are in the exclusion list.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The India-Oman CEPA marks a shift from a merchandise-only relation to a deep-integrated economic partnership.\" Discuss how this agreement strengthens India's strategic autonomy and economic presence in the West Asian region.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"18:T10fc,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Somnath Swabhiman Parv** is being held from **8 to 11 January 2026**, marking two major milestones in India’s civilisational journey. It commemorates **1,000 years** since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 and celebrates **75 years** since the temple was reopened in 1951 following its modern reconstruction.\n\n## What is Somnath Swabhiman Parv?\n\nThe Parv (festival) is conceived as a tribute to resilience, faith, and civilisational self-respect. It emphasizes the unbroken cycle of revival of the Somnath temple, which has been repeatedly rebuilt over centuries through the collective resolve of devotees.\n\n**Key Commemorative Events:**\n- **Akhand Omkar Chanting:** A 72-hour continuous chanting symbolizing unity and faith.\n- **Shaurya Yatra:** A symbolic procession representing the courage and sacrifice that preserved the shrine through centuries.\n- **Drone Show:** A modern visual celebration of the temple's history and significance.\n- **Padayatra:** A spiritual march involving saints from **Girnar Tirthkshetra** to the temple.\n\n## Historical Significance: A Millennium of Resilience\n\nSomnath, located at **Prabhas Patan** near Veraval in Gujarat, is revered as the first among the **12 Aadi Jyotirlingas** of Lord Shiva. \n\n- **The 1026 Attack:** January 1026 marked the first recorded invasion by Mahmud of Ghazni.\n- **Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar:** One of the key historical figures who contributed to the temple's rebuilding during the medieval period.\n- **Modern Reconstruction:** On November 12, 1947, **Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel** visited the ruins and vowed to rebuild the temple. \n- **1951 Reopening:** The present temple was consecrated on **May 11, 1951**, in the presence of then President **Dr. Rajendra Prasad**.\n\n## Architectural and Cultural Grandeur\n\nThe present temple structure is built in the **Kailash Mahameru Prasad** architectural style. \n\n**Key Architectural Facts:**\n- **Shikhar:** Rises to **150 feet**.\n- **Kalash:** A 10-tonne gold-plated Kalash at the summit.\n- **Dhwajdand:** A 27-foot-tall flagpole.\n- **Footfall:** The temple draws **92–97 lakh devotees** annually.\n- **Light and Sound Show:** Enhanced in 2017 with 3D laser technology to narrate the shrine's history.\n\n## Modern Stewardship: Sustainability and Empowerment\n\nSomnath was declared a **\"Swachh Iconic Place\"** in 2018 and has integrated several modern sustainability and social practices under the **Shri Somnath Trust** (chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi).\n\n**Eco-friendly Initiatives:**\n- **Mission LiFE:** Plastic waste is converted into **4,700 paver blocks** monthly.\n- **Vermicompost:** Temple flowers are used to nourish 1,700 Bilva trees.\n- **Miyawaki Forest:** 7,200 trees planted to absorb 93,000 kg of carbon dioxide annually.\n- **Water Management:** Rainwater harvesting and sewage treatment of 30 lakh litres monthly.\n\n**Women Empowerment:**\n- Of the 906 employees at the Trust, **262 are women**.\n- The **Bilva Van** project is managed entirely by women.\n- In total, **363 women** are employed, generating approximately **₹9 crore** annually for their livelihoods.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Somnath Temple and the Swabhiman Parv:**\n1. The Somnath Swabhiman Parv 2026 marks 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the temple.\n2. The present temple structure is built in the Vesara style of architecture.\n3. The modern reconstruction of the temple was initiated following a visit by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 1947.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 1 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct as the Parv commemorates the 1026 attack. Statement 2 is incorrect; the temple is built in the Kailash Mahameru Prasad style (a variant of the Nagara style). Statement 3 is correct as Sardar Patel vowed to rebuild it on Diwali day, 1947.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Somnath serves as a symbol of India’s civilisational continuity and the resilience of its cultural heritage.\" In light of the recent Somnath Swabhiman Parv, discuss how the temple's history and its conservation efforts reflect the principles of modern heritage management and cooperative federalism.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"19:T11c0,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia is the world’s largest producer of milk, accounting for **25% of global output**. To modernize this massive ecosystem, the **National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)** is spearheading a digital transformation. Initiatives like **Pashu Aadhaar** and the **National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM)** aim to connect millions of small dairy farmers to a transparent, traceable, and efficient value chain.\n\n## Key Digital Initiatives in the Dairy Sector\n\nThe digitalization effort covers the entire value chain, from livestock management to milk collection and distribution.\n\n### 1. National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM) \u0026 Pashu Aadhaar\nThe NDLM, also known as **\"Bharat Pashudhan,\"** creates a unified digital ecosystem for livestock management.\n- **Pashu Aadhaar:** A unique 12-digit barcoded Tag ID (ear tag) issued to livestock.\n- **Purpose:** Acts as a primary key for tracking vaccination, breeding, treatment, and health records.\n- **Progress:** Over **35.68 crore Pashu Aadhaar** IDs generated till November 2025.\n- **1962 App \u0026 Helpline:** Provides authenticated information on best practices and doorstep veterinary services.\n\n### 2. Automatic Milk Collection System (AMCS)\nDeveloped to bring transparency to the daily milk collection process at Dairy Cooperative Societies (DCS).\n- **Mechanism:** Digitally records quantity, quality (fat content), and ensures instant payment transfers to farmers' bank accounts.\n- **Impact:** Benefits over **17.3 lakh milk producers** across 54 milk unions (as of October 2025).\n- **Digital Passbook:** Farmers receive real-time SMS updates on sales and payments.\n\n### 3. NDDB Dairy ERP (NDERP)\nA comprehensive, web-based enterprise resource planning system tailored for the dairy industry.\n- **Technology:** Built on open-source **Frappe ERPNext**, eliminating licensing fees.\n- **Scope:** Covers finance, inventory, sales, and manufacturing.\n- **Integration:** Directly linked with AMCS to create an end-to-end digital solution from cow to consumer.\n\n### 4. Semen Station Management System (SSMS)\nEnsures standardisation and quality in the production of Frozen Semen Doses (FSD).\n- **Integration:** Connected to the **Information Network for Semen Production and Resource Management (INSPRM)**.\n- **Status:** Currently used by 38 graded semen stations across India.\n\n### 5. Internet-based Dairy Information System (i-DIS)\nA unified platform for dairy cooperatives to collect and analyze data.\n- **Scale:** Involves 198 milk unions and 15 federations.\n- **Purpose:** Supports data-driven decision-making and performance benchmarking.\n\n### 6. Milk Route Optimisation using GIS\nUsing **Geographical Information System (GIS)** technology to design efficient procurement and distribution routes.\n- **Benefits:** Reduces transportation distance, fuel costs, and time.\n- **Implementation:** Launched in August 2022; successfully implemented in unions like Varanasi, Indore, and Jharkhand.\n\n## Significance of Digitalization\n\n- **Transparency:** Automating milk collection eliminates manual errors and middleman interference in payments.\n- **Productivity:** Data-driven livestock management (via Pashu Aadhaar) helps in timely vaccinations and better breeding decisions.\n- **Traceability:** Ensures food safety and quality standards from the farm gate to the retail shelf.\n- **Farmer Welfare:** Direct benefit transfers and real-time information empower small and marginal dairy farmers.\n- **Cost Efficiency:** GIS-based route planning significantly lowers logistics costs for cooperatives.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Pashu Aadhaar' initiative, consider the following statements:**\n1. It is a 12-digit barcoded unique ID issued to all livestock animals in India.\n2. It serves as a primary key for tracking the health, breeding, and vaccination records of the animals.\n3. The initiative is part of the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM).\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: All statements are factually correct. Pashu Aadhaar is a 12-digit ID under NDLM (Bharat Pashudhan) used for comprehensive livestock management.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Digitalization is the key to transitioning India’s dairy sector from traditional practices to a globally competitive industry.\" Discuss the role of digital platforms in enhancing transparency and productivity in India's cooperative dairy model.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1a:T1041,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndian Railways is on the verge of a historic milestone, having electrified **99.2% of its Broad Gauge (BG) network** by November 2025. Under **Mission 100% Electrification**, the system has transformed from a diesel-driven giant into one of the world’s most extensively electrified rail networks, significantly reducing carbon emissions and operational costs.\n\n## Evolution of Railway Electrification\n\nIndia’s journey began a century ago in **1925**, with the first electric train running between Bombay Victoria Terminus and Kurla Harbour. While progress was modest for decades, the last ten years have seen an unprecedented surge in pace.\n\n**Key Velocity Metrics:**\n- **2004–2014**: 1.42 km per day.\n- **2019–2025**: Over **15 km per day**.\n- **Historical Growth**: Only 388 RKMs were electrified at Independence; as of November 2025, the figure stands at **69,427 RKMs**.\n- **Decadal Achievement**: 46,900 RKMs were electrified specifically between 2014 and 2025.\n\n## Status Snapshot: The Final Miles\n\nOut of the total **70,001 RKM** Broad Gauge network, only 0.8% (574 RKM) remains to be electrified.\n- **100% Electrified**: 25 States and Union Territories have achieved full electrification.\n- **Residual Work**: Only 5 states have pending sections:\n  - **Rajasthan**: 99% (93 RKM balance)\n  - **Tamil Nadu**: 97% (117 RKM balance)\n  - **Karnataka**: 96% (151 RKM balance)\n  - **Assam**: 92% (197 RKM balance)\n  - **Goa**: 91% (16 RKM balance)\n\n## Global Benchmarking (June 2025)\n\nIndia’s performance (99.2%) places it at the forefront of global railway systems:\n- **Switzerland**: 100%\n- **China**: 82%\n- **Japan**: 64%\n- **France**: 60%\n- **Russia**: 52%\n- **United Kingdom**: 39%\n\n## The Solar Integration Push\n\nIndian Railways is leveraging its vast land holdings to integrate renewable energy into the traction system.\n- **Capacity Growth**: Solar capacity jumped from 3.68 MW in 2014 to **898 MW** by November 2025 (a 244-fold increase).\n- **Network Reach**: Solar power systems are now installed across **2,626 railway stations**.\n- **Traction vs. Non-Traction**: \n  - **629 MW (70%)**: Used directly for electric train operations.\n  - **269 MW**: Used for station lighting, workshops, and quarters.\n- **Economic Value**: Electric traction is approximately **70% more economical** than diesel traction.\n\n## Engineering Innovations\n\nSpeed and quality are being maintained through advanced mechanization:\n1. **Cylindrical Mechanised Foundation**: Replaces manual excavation with augering, saving significant labour and time.\n2. **Automatic Wiring Train**: Enables simultaneous installation of catenary and contact wires with precise tension control.\n\n## Significance\n\n- **Strategic Independence**: Reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels for diesel locomotives.\n- **Environmental Impact**: Moves the transport sector toward **Net Zero Carbon Emission** targets.\n- **Operational Efficiency**: Higher capacity, faster speeds, and reduced noise compared to traditional diesel-run systems.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to Indian Railways' electrification and solar energy initiatives, consider the following statements:**\n1. As of November 2025, Indian Railways has electrified more than 99% of its Broad Gauge network.\n2. Every state and Union Territory in India has achieved 100% railway electrification.\n3. Approximately 70% of the railway's commissioned solar power is utilized directly for train traction purposes.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 1 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct (99.2% electrified). Statement 2 is incorrect because 5 states (Rajasthan, TN, Karnataka, Assam, Goa) still have residual sections. Statement 3 is correct (629 MW out of 898 MW is for traction).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The shift from diesel to electric traction, coupled with a massive solar push, is not just a technical upgrade but a green civilizational leap for Indian Railways.\" Discuss the economic and environmental significance of Mission 100% Electrification.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1b:Tff5,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe Government of India has approved the **Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS)** rates for the **Rabi 2025–26** season. Effective from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, the updated rates aim to ensure the affordable availability of Phosphatic and Potassic (P\u0026K) fertilizers to farmers while promoting balanced soil nutrition.\n\n## What is the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme?\n\nLaunched on **April 1, 2010**, the NBS scheme represents a policy shift where subsidies are determined based on the nutrient content (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potash, and Sulphur) rather than the weight of the fertilizer product.\n\n**Key Objectives:**\n- **Soil Health:** Addresses nutrient imbalance caused by skewed fertilizer usage.\n- **Affordability:** Ensures fertilizers are available at fair and subsidized prices.\n- **Innovation:** Encourages the introduction of advanced and micronutrient-enriched products.\n- **Decontrolled Regime:** P\u0026K fertilizer prices are decontrolled, allowing companies to fix the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) at reasonable levels subject to government oversight.\n\n## Rabi 2025-26: Key Highlights\n\nThe government has allocated a tentative budget of **₹37,952.29 crore** for this season, which is approximately ₹736 crore higher than the Kharif 2025 requirement.\n\n**Subsidies for Primary Nutrients (per kg):**\n- **Nitrogen (N):** ₹43.02\n- **Phosphate (P):** ₹47.96\n- **Potash (K):** ₹2.38\n- **Sulphur (S):** ₹2.87\n\n**DAP Subsidy Hike:**\nThe subsidy for **Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)** has been significantly enhanced to **₹29,805 per metric tonne**, up from ₹21,911 per metric tonne in Rabi 2024-25.\n\n## Expanding Choices and Fortification\n\nUntil recently, the scheme covered 25 P\u0026K grades. This has now expanded to **28 grades**, including new additions like:\n- **NPK (11:30:14)** fortified with Magnesium, Zinc, Boron, and Sulphur.\n- **Urea-SSP (5:15:0:10)** complex.\n- **SSP (0:16:0:11)** fortified with micronutrients.\n\n**Fortification Bonus:**\nTo encourage the use of secondary nutrients, additional subsidies are provided for fortified fertilizers:\n- **Boron (B):** ₹300 per Metric Tonne (MT)\n- **Zinc (Zn):** ₹500 per Metric Tonne (MT)\n\n## Impact and Governance\n\n**Production \u0026 Yield:**\n- **Domestic Output:** P\u0026K fertilizer production grew by over 50% from 112.19 LMT in 2014 to **168.55 LMT** by late 2025.\n- **Agricultural Productivity:** Foodgrain yields increased from 1,930 kg/ha (2010-11) to **2,578 kg/ha** (2024-25).\n\n**Monitoring Mechanisms:**\n- **iFMS (Integrated Fertilizer Management System):** A digital platform for real-time tracking of fertilizer distribution, dealer registration, and stock availability.\n- **Profit Caps:** Profit margins are regulated at 8% for importers, 10% for manufacturers, and 12% for integrated manufacturers.\n- **Transparency:** Each bag must display the MRP and the applicable subsidy per bag and per kg.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. It applies to both Nitrogenous (Urea) and Phosphatic \u0026 Potassic (P\u0026K) fertilizers.\n2. The subsidy is determined based on the nutrient content rather than the specific grade of the fertilizer.\n3. The Integrated Fertilizer Management System (iFMS) is used for real-time tracking of fertilizer movement and stock.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because Urea (Nitrogenous fertilizer) is NOT covered under the NBS scheme; it is under a separate price control regime. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as NBS links subsidy to N, P, K, and S content, and iFMS is the digital backbone for monitoring.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The shift towards Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) is a critical step towards precision agriculture and soil health management in India.\" Critically analyze the impact of the NBS scheme on India's agricultural productivity and fiscal responsibility.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1c:T13da,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)** is driving India's semiconductor ambitions through the **Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme**. Recognizing that chip design contributes up to **50% of the total value addition** in the semiconductor value chain, the scheme focuses on nurturing a domestic \"fabless\" ecosystem to ensure technological leadership and strategic autonomy.\n\n## Strategic Importance of Fabless Design\n\nIn the semiconductor industry, \"fabless\" companies design chips but outsource their physical manufacturing (fabrication).\n- **Value Driver:** Design and Intellectual Property (IP) contribute disproportionately to the economic value of a product compared to mere assembly or manufacturing.\n- **Strategic Autonomy:** Without local design capability, a nation remains dependent on imported core technologies even if physical manufacturing happens locally.\n- **Economic Impact:** Chip design accounts for 20–50% of the Bill of Materials (BOM) cost and 30–35% of global semiconductor sales.\n\n## What is the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme?\n\nThe DLI Scheme is an instrument under the **Semicon India Programme** to catalyze a self-reliant chip design ecosystem.\n- **Nodal Agency:** Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (**C-DAC**).\n- **Target Beneficiaries:** Domestic Startups and MSMEs.\n- **Eligibility:** \n    - **MSMEs:** As per the June 2020 notification.\n    - **Startups:** As per the DPIIT 2019 notification.\n    - **Domestic Companies:** Owned by resident Indian citizens.\n\n## Components of the DLI Scheme\n\nThe scheme provides two main types of support:\n\n### 1. Financial Incentives\n- **Product Design Linked Incentive:** Reimbursement of up to **50% of eligible expenditure**, capped at **₹15 crore** per application.\n- **Deployment Linked Incentive:** Incentives of **6% to 4% of net sales** turnover over five years, capped at **₹30 crore** per application. Minimum cumulative sales of ₹1 crore (startups/MSMEs) or ₹5 crore (others) is required.\n\n### 2. Design Infrastructure Support\nImplemented through the **ChipIN Centre** at C-DAC, providing:\n- **National EDA Tool Grid:** Remote access to advanced Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools.\n- **IP Core Repository:** Access to libraries for System-on-Chip (SoC) design.\n- **Prototyping \u0026 Validation:** Fiscal support for fabricating designs in Multi-Project Wafer (MPW) manner and post-silicon validation.\n\n## Key Outcomes and Success Stories\n\nAs of early 2026, the scheme has shown significant traction:\n- **Footprint:** 95 startups supported; 24 specific chip-design projects sanctioned.\n- **Technological Milestones:** 16 tape-outs completed, 6 chips successfully fabricated, and 10 patents filed.\n- **Talent:** Over 1,000 specialized engineers engaged.\n- **IP Generation:** Development of 140+ reusable semiconductor IP cores.\n\n**Notable Projects:**\n- **InCore Semiconductors:** Developing the indigenous **Dolomite** RISC-V processor for edge-AI applications.\n- **Netrasemi:** Successfully taped out India’s first indigenously designed **AI SoC** in a 12 nm process for surveillance.\n- **Aheesa Digital Innovations:** Developing the **Vihaan** fiber-broadband solution based on the **VEGA processor**.\n- **Vervesemi:** Focus on motor-control chips for consumer appliances (fans, drones) and e-scooters.\n\n## Significance for India\n\n- **Reducing Import Dependence:** Lowers the reliance on imported semiconductor IPs and chips.\n- **Supply Chain Resilience:** Protects against global disruptions by diversifying the manufacturing and design base.\n- **Security:** Ensures assured access to critical technologies for sensitive sectors like **Defence, Telecom, and Space**.\n- **Ecosystem Growth:** Translates deep-tech innovation into market-ready products, leveraging 3× private investment for every rupee of government support.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme', consider the following statements:**\n1. It is implemented by the Niti Aayog as the nodal agency.\n2. It provides financial incentives for both chip design and the deployment of semiconductor designs in electronics products.\n3. Only startups and MSMEs are eligible for financial support under this scheme.\n\n**Which of the statements given above is/are correct?**\n(a) 2 only\n(b) 1 and 2 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 2 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect; C-DAC is the nodal agency for implementation. Statement 2 is correct as it includes both Product DLI and Deployment DLI. Statement 3 is incorrect because while startups/MSMEs are the primary focus for design support, other \"domestic companies\" are also eligible for the Deployment Linked Incentive.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Building a robust fabless ecosystem enables India to own the most critical layer of the semiconductor value chain.\" In light of this statement, analyze how the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme addresses the structural challenges of India's semiconductor industry.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1d:T1194,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nObserved annually on **4th January**, **World Braille Day** highlights the importance of Braille as a gateway to education, dignity, and equal participation for persons with visual disabilities. India is currently strengthening its tactile literacy framework through the **Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016**, **NEP 2020**, and the latest **Bharati Braille 2.1** standards.\n\n## What is Braille?\n\nBraille is a tactile writing and reading system based on a **six-dot cell**, arranged in two columns of three dots each. Different combinations of raised dots represent letters, numerals, and punctuation.\n- **Inventor**: Louis Braille (19th-century France).\n- **Mechanism**: It is a **code**, not a language, allowing multiple languages to be read and written in tactile form.\n\n## Evolution of Braille in India\n\n- **Historical Start**: Braille was introduced in India in **1887**.\n- **Bharati Braille (1951)**: A single national standard was adopted to provide common codes for most Indian languages (Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, etc.).\n- **Bharati Braille 2.1 (2026)**: On World Braille Day 2026, the **NIEPVD** released a new draft for technological integration (validating Liblouis tables) for public feedback.\n- **Unicode Mapping**: Recent standards include Unicode mapping, making Braille digitally compatible with screen readers and software.\n\n## Key Policy and Program Ecosystem\n\n### 1. Legal Foundation: RPwD Act, 2016\nThe Act mandates **inclusive education** and requires government-funded institutions to:\n- Provide accessible infrastructure and reasonable accommodation.\n- Ensure education in appropriate modes like Braille for blind/deafblind students.\n- Offer free learning materials and assistive devices up to **18 years** of age.\n\n### 2. Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan)\nLaunched in **2015**, this initiative focuses on:\n- **Built Environment**: Retrofitting public spaces/buildings with Braille signage (covering **2,000+ railway stations**).\n- **Transport**: Improving accessibility at airports, metros, and bus terminals.\n- **ICT**: National website accessibility guidelines for digital inclusion.\n\n### 3. Sugamya Pustakalaya\nA comprehensive **digital library** for persons with print disabilities. \n- **Collaboration**: A joint effort by NIEPVD, Tata Consultancy Services, and the Daisy Forum of India.\n- **Function**: Allows users to search for accessible-format books and convert materials if not available.\n\n### 4. DALM Project\nThe **Project on Financial Support for Development of Accessible Learning Materials** (formerly the Braille Press Project):\n- Since its inception in **2014**, it has distributed learning materials to over **1.69 lakh (1,69,782)** students.\n\n## Institutional Framework\n\n- **NIEPVD, Dehradun**: National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities, the nodal body for Braille development.\n- **Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI)**: A statutory body (est. 1993) that regulates and standardizes training for professionals working with PwDs.\n- **Delhi Public Library**: Operates a national-level public Braille library service.\n\n## Significance for India\n\nAccording to the **2011 Census**, India has **50,32,463** persons with visual impairment. Strengthening the Braille ecosystem aligns with India’s commitment to the **UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)**, ensuring that \"no one is left behind.\"\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to 'Bharati Braille', consider the following statements:**\n1. It was first adopted as a single national standard for Indian languages in 1951.\n2. It uses a standard six-dot Braille cell to represent vowels and consonants across multiple scripts.\n3. The National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) is the developer of the script standards.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: Bharati Braille was standardized in 1951 and uses the 6-dot cell. The NIEPVD (under the Ministry of Social Justice \u0026 Empowerment) handles its development and recently released version 2.1 for feedback.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Tactile literacy is not just a niche accommodation but a vital bridge to equality and dignity.\" Discuss the role of digital accessibility and legal frameworks in empowering persons with visual disabilities in India.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1e:T148d,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nEconomic reforms in 2025 marked a shift from expanding regulatory frameworks to delivering measurable outcomes. The focus was on outcome-driven governance, simplifying systems, and boosting inclusive growth through taxation, labour, and trade reforms.\n\n## Income Tax Reforms (New Income Tax Act, 2025)\n\nThe Government introduced a comprehensive overhaul of the Income-tax Act, 1961, resulting in the **New Income Tax Act, 2025**.\n\n**Key Changes:**\n- **Tax Exemption:** Annual income up to **₹12 lakh** is exempt from income tax under the new regime (effective exemption up to ₹12.75 lakh for salaried taxpayers with standard deduction).\n- **Tax Year Transition:** Replaces the concepts of \"Assessment Year\" and \"Previous Year\" with a unified \"Tax Year\" (1st April to 31st March).\n- **Simplification:** Consolidation of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) provisions under a single section.\n- **Digitization:** Focus on digital-first enforcement and faceless tax administration.\n\n## Labour Reforms\n\nThe Government consolidated 29 existing labour laws into **four Labour Codes**:\n1. **Code on Wages, 2019** — Uniform definition of wages and statutory minimum wages across sectors.\n2. **Industrial Relations Code, 2020** — Simplification of trade union and employment condition laws.\n3. **Code on Social Security, 2020** — Extension of benefits to unorganized, gig, and platform workers.\n4. **Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020** — Safeguarding worker rights and safe working conditions.\n\n**Note:** Nearly 10 million Gig and Platform workers are now covered via annual social security support.\n\n## Rural Employment Reforms (Gramin Act, 2025)\n\nThe **Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025** replaces MGNREGA.\n\n**Key Features:**\n- **Extended Guarantee:** **125 days** of wage employment per rural household in a financial year.\n- **Timely Payments:** Wages must be paid within fifteen days of completion of work.\n- **Decentralized Planning:** Projects flow from **Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans (VGPPs)**, approved by the Gram Sabha.\n- **Admin Capacity:** Administrative expenditure ceiling increased from 6% to **9%**.\n\n## MSME and Ease of Doing Business\n\nThe Union Budget 2025-26 updated MSME classifications and introduced several support measures.\n\n**Revised MSME Thresholds:**\n\n| Category | Investment Limit | Turnover Limit |\n|:---|:---|:---|\n| **Micro** | Up to ₹2.5 crore | Up to ₹10 crore |\n| **Small** | Up to ₹25 crore | Up to ₹100 crore |\n| **Medium** | Up to ₹125 crore | Up to ₹500 crore |\n\n**Support Measures:**\n- **QCO Relaxations:** Additional compliance time for Micro (6 months) and Small (3 months) enterprises for Quality Control Orders.\n- **Credit Flow:** Multi Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) provides cover up to **₹100 crore** for equipment and machinery.\n- **Collateral-Free Loans:** Available up to ₹10 lakh for micro and small enterprises.\n\n## Next-Generation GST (GST 2.0)\n\nGST underwent structural reforms to reduce complexity and classification disputes.\n\n**Key Highlights:**\n- **Two-Slab Regime:** Transition towards a simpler structure with two primary slabs (**5% and 18%**).\n- **Taxpayer Base:** Expanded to over **1.5 crore** taxpayers.\n- **Revenue:** Gross collections reached **₹22.08 lakh crore** in FY 2024–25.\n- **Refunds:** Implementation of risk-based auto-refunds to assist MSMEs and Startups.\n\n## Export Promotion Mission (EPM)\n\nApproved with an outlay of **₹25,060 crore** for FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31.\n\n**Strategic Components:**\n- **Niryat Protsahan:** Financial support including affordable trade finance and credit enhancement.\n- **Niryat Disha:** Non-financial enablers such as branding, logistics, and quality compliance.\n- **Target:** Strengthening exports from non-traditional districts and empowering MSMEs.\n\n## Significance\n\nThese reforms collectively represent a move towards **outcome-based governance**. By aligning tax cycles, modernizing labour safety nets, and simplifying business compliance, the measures foster institutional trust and economic resilience, aimed at reaching **Viksit Bharat @2047**.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the MSME classification thresholds and support measures updated in 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. A Micro enterprise is defined as one where investment does not exceed ₹2.5 crore and turnover does not exceed ₹10 crore.\n2. The turnover limit for a Medium enterprise has been increased to ₹500 crore.\n3. Collateral-free loans for micro and small enterprises under the new support measures are available up to ₹25 lakh.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 1 and 2 only.  \n*Reasoning: According to the 2025 updates, collateral-free loans for micro and small enterprises are available up to ₹10 lakh, not ₹25 lakh (Statement 3 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The transition from the 1961 Income Tax Act to the 2025 unified 'Tax Year' framework, coupled with structural GST 2.0 reforms, signifies a shift towards 'Outcome-Driven Governance' in India.\" Critically analyze.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"1f:T10f7,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe Government of India has approved the **'Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM)'** with a financial outlay of **₹7,280 crore**. The initiative aims to build a domestic integrated ecosystem for rare-earth magnets, reducing import dependence from major suppliers like China.\n\n## What is a Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM)?\n\nREPMs are among the strongest types of permanent magnets and are used extensively in technologies requiring compact and high-performance magnetic components. Their high magnetic strength and stability allow them to deliver strong performance in advanced engineering applications.\n\n**Key Applications:**\n- Electric vehicle (EV) motors\n- Wind turbine generators\n- Aerospace and defence systems\n- Consumer and industrial electronics\n- Precision sensors and actuators\n\n## Core Elements of the Scheme\n\nThe scheme framework supports end-to-end manufacturing in India over a **seven-year period** (two-year gestation + five-year incentive disbursement).\n\n- **Total Outlay:** ₹7,280 crore\n- **Target Capacity:** 6,000 Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA)\n- **Sales-linked Incentives:** ₹6,450 crore over five years\n- **Capital Subsidy:** ₹750 crore for establishing integrated facilities\n- **Beneficiaries:** Up to five companies selected through global competitive bidding (max 1,200 MTPA each)\n\n## India's Rare Earth Resource Base\n\nIndia possesses a substantial base of rare-earth minerals, primarily through **monazite deposits** in coastal and inland regions.\n\n- **Monazite Deposits:** 13.15 million tonnes\n- **Estimated Rare Earth Oxides (REO):** 7.23 million tonnes\n- **Key States:** Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Maharashtra\n- **Augmented Resources:** 482.6 million tonnes of rare-earth ore identified by the Geological Survey of India (GSI)\n\n## Related Ecosystem and Policy Framework\n\nThe REPM scheme is part of a broader strategy to secure India's critical mineral supply chain.\n\n- **National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM)** — Approved January 2025; aims to secure long-term sustainable supply of critical minerals from exploration to recycling.\n- **Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act)** — Reformed in 2023 to allow private participation in mineral exploration and empower the government to auction mineral concessions.\n- **Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL)** — A joint venture of NALCO, HCL, and MECL; mandated to explore and acquire strategic mineral assets like lithium and cobalt overseas (e.g., Argentina).\n\n## Significance\n\nIndia currently depends on imports for **84.8% to 90.4%** of its permanent magnet quantity, with a major share coming from China. Establishing domestic capacity is strategic for:\n\n- **Self-reliance:** Atmanirbhar Bharat in critical sectors like defence and aerospace.\n- **Net Zero 2070:** Supporting the clean-energy transition through EVs and wind power.\n- **Global Positioning:** Enhancing India's role in global advanced-materials value chains.\n- **Supply Resilience:** Reducing vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Regarding the 'Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM)' 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. The scheme aims to achieve a total domestic manufacturing capacity of 6,000 Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA).\n2. It provides both capital subsidies for integrated facilities and sales-linked incentives over a seven-year period.\n3. In India, monazite—the primary source of rare-earth minerals—is found only in the coastal regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (a) 1 and 2 only.  \n*Reasoning: While monazite is found in coastal regions, it is also present in inland regions across several states including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and others, as per the resource base data (Statement 3 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The REPM Scheme, integrated with the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM), is essential for India’s transition towards a Net Zero economy and strategic self-reliance in the aerospace and defence sectors.\" Discuss.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"20:Teaa,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndustrial parks have emerged as a primary vehicle for accelerating India's industrial and innovation agenda. With over **4,500 parks** mapped across 7.70 lakh hectares, they form the institutional foundation for achieving a globally competitive industrial economy.\n\n## Overview of India's Industrial Land\n\nThe **India Industrial Land Bank (IILB)**, a GIS-enabled platform developed by the **DPIIT**, serves as a one-stop repository for industrial land information.\n\n**Key Statistics (as of Dec 2025):**\n- **Total Mapped Parks:** 4,523\n- **Total Area:** 7.70 lakh hectares\n- **Land Available:** 1.35 lakh hectares\n- **Total Plots:** 6.45 lakh+ (with 1.25 lakh plots vacant)\n\n## Key Government Initiatives\n\n### 1. Plug-and-Play Industrial Parks\nThe Union Budget 2025-26 allocated **₹2,500 crore** for these parks. Designed to be industry-ready with integrated utilities, they allow firms to start operations immediately.\n- **Current Status:** 306 parks operational; 20 additional parks/smart cities being developed under the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (**NICDC**).\n\n### 2. Industrial Park Rating System (IPRS)\nA comprehensive framework assessment assessing parks across four pillars.\n- **IPRS 2.0 Results:** 41 parks classified as 'Leaders', 90 as 'Challengers', and 185 as 'Aspirers'.\n- **IPRS 3.0 (Launched Sept 2025):** Expanded focus on sustainability, green infrastructure, logistics connectivity, digitalization, skill linkages, and tenant feedback.\n\n### 3. Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Reforms\n- **National Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP), 2014:** Focus on single-window systems and inspection reforms.\n- **Compliance Reduction:** Decriminalized 3,700 legal provisions and reduced 42,000+ compliances.\n- **ODOP (One District One Product):** Promoting district-specific products.\n\n## Economic Impact and FDI\n\nIndia ranks among the world's **top 5 destinations** for greenfield project investments (UNCTAD 2025 report).\n- **FDI Inflows:** Reached **USD 43.76 billion** during April-August 2025-26 (up from USD 37.03 billion in the previous year).\n- **Core Role of Parks:** Enhancing industrial performance, deepening global value chains, and integrating India into global manufacturing networks.\n\n## Significance for UPSC\n\nIndustrial parks are essential for transitioning toward a circular and green economy. They facilitate:\n- **Productivity Gains:** By integrating production factors within defined zones.\n- **Self-Reliance:** Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat strategies.\n- **Net Zero Goals:** Integrating sustainability and green standards into industrial planning.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to India’s industrial infrastructure, consider the following statements regarding the India Industrial Land Bank (IILB):**\n1. It is a GIS-enabled platform developed by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC).\n2. As of December 2025, it maps over 4,500 industrial parks with approximately 7.70 lakh hectares of total land area.\n3. It allows investors to remotely evaluate land parcels based on infrastructure and connectivity data.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: The IILB was developed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), not the NICDC (Statement 1 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Industrial parks in India have shifted from mere land repositories to integrated ecosystems driven by sustainability and plug-and-play efficiency.\" In light of the IPRS 3.0 framework, critically analyze the role of these parks in making India a global manufacturing hub.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"21:Tff0,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia and New Zealand concluded negotiations for a forward-looking Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in December 2025. Announced in March 2025, it is one of India’s fastest-concluded FTAs, aimed at delivering duty-free access for Indian exports while safeguarding sensitive domestic sectors like dairy and agriculture.\n\n## Bilateral Trade Overview\n\nThe agreement builds on a rapidly growing economic relationship and a strong Indian diaspora (nearly 300,000 people, or 5% of New Zealand's population).\n\n- **Merchandise Trade:** Grew from USD 873 million in 2023–24 to **USD 1.3 billion** in 2024–25 (49% growth).\n- **Positive Balance:** Indian exports rose to USD 711 million in 2024–25, maintaining a positive trade balance.\n- **Services Trade:** India’s services exports reached USD 634 million in 2024, led by IT, travel, and business services.\n\n## Key Features of the FTA\n\nThe agreement establishes a predictable framework for goods, services, mobility, and investment.\n\n### 1. Market Access for Goods\n- **Gains for India:** New Zealand will eliminate duties on **100% of Indian exports** (8,284 tariff lines) upon Entry into Force (EIF).\n- **Gains for New Zealand:** India has offered market access in **70.03%** of its tariff lines.\n- **Exclusions by India:** To protect domestic interests, India has kept **29.97%** of lines in the exclusion list, including:\n  - **Dairy:** Milk, cream, whey, cheese, etc.\n  - **Vegetables:** Onions, chana, peas, corn, almonds.\n  - **Others:** Sugar, honey, animal fats, gems \u0026 jewellery, copper, and aluminium.\n\n### 2. Services and Mobility\n- **Student Mobility:** New Zealand signed an Annex on Student Mobility for the first time. Indian students can work 20 hours/week while studying.\n- **Post-Study Visas:** Extended visas for STEM Bachelors (3 years), Masters (up to 3 years), and Doctorates (up to 4 years).\n- **Skilled Visa Quota:** A quota of **5,000 visas** for skilled Indians (stay up to 3 years) in sectors like IT, Engineering, and AYUSH.\n- **AYUSH Recognition:** For the first time, New Zealand facilitates trade in Ayurveda, Yoga, and traditional medicine through a dedicated Health Annex.\n\n### 3. Investment and Cooperation\n- **FDI Commitment:** New Zealand has committed to investing **USD 20 billion** in India over 15 years.\n- **Agriculture Productivity:** A Joint Agriculture Productivity Council will monitor technical support for Indian growers of kiwifruit, apples, and honey.\n- **Pharma:** Expedited regulatory pathways for medical devices and drugs, recognizing inspections from trusted global regulators.\n\n## Significance\n\nThis FTA marks a defining moment in India’s trade diplomacy. It secures duty-free access for labour-intensive sectors (textiles, leather, gems) while providing a strategic gateway to the wider Oceania and Pacific Island markets. By integrating mobility for Indian professionals and students, it strengthens India’s \"soft power\" and supports the vision of a globally integrated **Viksit Bharat 2047**.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Regarding the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. New Zealand has offered immediate duty elimination on 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports.\n2. India has provided reciprocal 100% duty-free access for New Zealand's dairy and agricultural products.\n3. The agreement includes a dedicated Annex on Health and Traditional Medicine (AYUSH) for the first time.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only \n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 1 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: India has kept 29.97% of lines in exclusion, specifically protecting sensitive sectors like Dairy and Agriculture (Statement 2 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The India-New Zealand FTA serves as a blueprint for balancing domestic agricultural sensitivities with the need for global market integration.\" Discuss the significance of this agreement for India's economic and strategic interests in the Oceania region.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"22:T1174,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025 has been introduced to modernise India's nuclear legal framework. It consolidates and replaces the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.\n\n## What is the SHANTI Bill?\n\nThe Bill aims to create a comprehensive structure for India's nuclear sector. It enables limited private participation while strengthening regulatory oversight.\n\n**Key Objectives:**\n- Consolidates and modernises India's nuclear legal framework\n- Enables limited private participation under regulatory oversight\n- Grants statutory recognition to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)\n- Supports achieving 100 GW nuclear energy capacity by 2047\n\n## India's Nuclear Energy Status\n\n**Present Position:**\n- Nuclear power accounts for around 3% of total electricity generation (3.1% in 2024–25)\n- Current installed capacity: 8.78 GW\n- Projected capacity by 2031–32: 22.38 GW\n\n**Nuclear Energy Mission (Union Budget 2025-26):**\n- Allocation: ₹20,000 crore\n- Focus: Design, development, and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)\n- Target: At least five indigenously designed SMRs operational by 2033\n- Long-term goal: 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047\n\n**BARC Initiatives under the Mission:**\n- 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200)\n- 55 MWe SMR-55\n- Up to 5 MWth High-temperature gas-cooled reactor for hydrogen generation\n\n## Evolution of India's Nuclear Laws\n\n- **Atomic Energy Act, 1962** — Replaced the 1948 law; laid foundation for India's nuclear programme\n- **Amendments (1986, 1987, 2015)** — Gradually opened the sector to government companies and joint ventures\n- **Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010** — Introduced no-fault liability regime for nuclear incidents\n\n## Key Provisions of SHANTI Bill\n\n**Private Sector Integration:**\n- Private companies can participate in plant operations, power generation, and equipment manufacturing\n- Activities involving radiation exposure require prior safety authorisation from the regulatory authority\n\n**Activities Reserved for Central Government:**\n- Enrichment or isotopic separation of prescribed substances\n- Management of spent fuel (reprocessing, recycling, radionuclide separation, high-level waste handling)\n- Production and upgradation of heavy water\n\n**Regulatory Mechanisms:**\n- **AERB** — Granted formal statutory recognition to strengthen regulatory independence\n- **Licensing System** — Structured system for granting, suspending, or cancelling licences\n- **Graded Liability Framework** — Operator liability limits vary according to type of nuclear installation\n\n**Dispute Resolution:**\n- Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for dispute redressal\n- Appellate Tribunal for Electricity serves as appellate authority\n- Central Government can appoint Claims Commissioners for nuclear damage claims\n- Nuclear Damage Claims Commission for severe nuclear damage cases\n\n**Non-Power Applications:**\n- Regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation technologies in healthcare, agriculture, industry, and research\n\n## Significance\n\nThe Bill supports India's long-term vision of expanding clean energy while ensuring strategic interests remain protected. It provides the legal foundation needed for scaling nuclear capacity from 8.78 GW to 100 GW by 2047, aligning with India's decarbonisation goals by 2070.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the SHANTI Bill 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. It provides statutory recognition to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for the first time.\n2. The management of spent fuel (reprocessing and recycling) is now open for private sector participation under the Bill.\n3. It aims to scale India's nuclear energy capacity to 100 GW by the year 2047.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 1 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: While the Bill enables limited private participation in power generation, management of spent fuel and heavy water production remain strictly reserved for the Central Government (Statement 2 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The SHANTI Bill 2025 balances the need for private sector efficiency with the imperatives of national nuclear safety and security.\" Analyze the key provisions of the Bill in light of this statement.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"23:Tfa4,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia has launched DHRUV64 — its first homegrown 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor. Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Microprocessor Development Programme, it marks a significant step in India's semiconductor self-reliance journey.\n\n## What is DHRUV64?\n\nDHRUV64 is a fully indigenous microprocessor built on the RISC-V architecture. It is designed for both strategic and commercial applications including 5G infrastructure, automotive systems, industrial automation, and IoT devices.\n\n**Key Specifications:**\n- Clock Speed: 1.0 GHz\n- Architecture: 64-bit dual-core\n- Design: RISC-V (open-source, no licence fees)\n- Developer: C-DAC\n\n## Why RISC-V Matters\n\nRISC-V is an open-source instruction set architecture that allows chip designers to build processors without paying licence fees. This enables:\n\n- Lower development costs\n- Greater design flexibility\n- Reduced dependence on foreign IP\n\nIndia adopted RISC-V through the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Programme launched in April 2022.\n\n## India's Indigenous Processor Ecosystem\n\nDHRUV64 is part of a broader push to build an Indian processor ecosystem. Other notable indigenous processors include:\n\n- **SHAKTI (2018)** — IIT Madras, for defence and space applications\n- **AJIT (2018)** — IIT Bombay, for industrial and robotics use\n- **VIKRAM (2025)** — ISRO-SCL, for space navigation and guidance\n- **THEJAS32 \u0026 THEJAS64** — C-DAC, under DIR-V Programme\n\nDHRUV64 is the third chip fabricated under the DIR-V Programme, after THEJAS32 (at Silterra, Malaysia) and THEJAS64 (at SCL Mohali).\n\n## Government Initiatives\n\nSeveral programmes support India's semiconductor ambitions:\n\n- **India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)** — Launched December 2021; approved 10 projects across 6 states; ₹1.60 lakh crore investment\n\n- **Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V)** — Launched April 2022; develops indigenous RISC-V microprocessors for industry and strategic sectors\n\n- **Chips to Startup (C2S)** — ₹250 crore across 113 institutions; target: 85,000 industry-ready professionals\n\n- **Design Linked Incentive (DLI)** — Launched 2021; financial support for ICs, chipsets, SoCs design\n\n- **INUP-i2i** — Provides researchers access to national nanofabrication facilities\n\n## What's Next?\n\nFollowing DHRUV64's success, C-DAC is now developing the next-generation processors:\n- DHANUSH64\n- DHANUSH64+\n\nThese System-on-Chip (SoC) variants will further strengthen India's indigenous processor capabilities.\n\n## Significance\n\nIndia consumes around 20% of all microprocessors manufactured globally. Building domestic capabilities reduces strategic vulnerabilities and supports the growing electronics and digital economy. \n\nDHRUV64 demonstrates that India can design, develop, and prototype advanced processors using homegrown talent. It also provides startups, academia, and industry a platform to build indigenous computing products without relying on foreign processors.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Regarding the DHRUV64 microprocessor launched recently, which of the following statements is/are correct?**\n1. It is a 64-bit dual-core microprocessor with a clock speed of 1.0 GHz.\n2. It has been developed by the IIT Madras team that previously created the SHAKTI processor.\n3. It is based on the RISC-V open-source architecture, reducing dependence on foreign IP.\n\n**Select the correct answer using the code given below:**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 1 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: DHRUV64 was developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), not IIT Madras. SHAKTI was the project from IIT Madras (Statement 2 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The transition from assembly-only electronics to deep-tech design through the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) programme is a prerequisite for India's global semiconductor leadership.\" Analyze in the context of the DHRUV64 launch.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"24:T1147,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 has been introduced to strengthen governance standards, improve audit quality in Public Sector Banks (PSBs), and enhance depositor protection. The Act seeks to align India's banking framework with modern digital requirements and evolving technology.\n\n## Evolution of India's Banking Laws\n\nIndia’s banking regulation is defined by cornerstone legislations:\n\n- **Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934** — Established the legal foundation for the RBI’s operations, including regulating banknotes and maintaining monetary stability.\n- **Banking Regulation Act, 1949** — Consolidated control over banking activities under a uniform legal structure.\n- **State Bank of India Act, 1955** — Formally established the SBI to expand banking facilities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.\n- **Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts, 1970 \u0026 1980** — Facilitated the nationalisation of significant commercial banks to serve national policy objectives.\n- **Banking Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2020** — Provided additional powers to the RBI for effective regulation of Co-operative banks.\n\n## Key Reforms in the 2025 Act\n\nThe Act amends five major legislations, including the RBI Act (1934) and the Banking Regulation Act (1949). The reforms were notified in two stages (August and November 2025).\n\n### 1. Modernised Nomination Framework\n- **Multiple Nominees:** Depositors can now nominate up to four persons for their bank accounts.\n- **Nomination Types:** Supports both simultaneous (percentage-wise allocation totalling 100%) and successive nominations.\n- **Seamless Succession:** Ensures smoother claim settlements for articles in safe custody and safety lockers.\n\n### 2. Governance and Audit Reforms\n- **Substantial Interest:** The regulatory threshold was increased from ₹5 lakh (1968 limit) to **₹2 crore** to revamp governance standards.\n- **Audit Remuneration:** PSBs are now empowered to fix auditors’ remuneration, helping attract qualified professionals.\n- **Unclaimed Funds:** Banks are permitted to transfer unclaimed shares, interest, and bond redemption amounts to the **Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF)**.\n\n### 3. Co-operative Banking Changes\n- **Director Tenure:** Maximum tenure of directors (excluding chairperson and whole-time directors) increased from 8 to **10 years**.\n- **97th Constitutional Amendment:** Aligns co-operative banks with democratic governance mandates.\n\n### 4. Operational \u0026 Procedural Efficiency\n- **Reporting Dates:** Statutory reporting dates have been aligned to the **last day of the month or fortnight**, replacing the previous \"last Friday\" or \"alternate Fridays\" requirement. This shift reduces manual workload and promotes automation.\n\n## Significance\n\nThe Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 represents a stride towards modernising India's financial architecture. By increasing the flexibility for nominations, it addresses the issue of huge unclaimed deposits lying across banks. The Act reinforces stability, transparency, and audit quality, which are essential pillars for sustained growth in a digital economy.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. For the first time, depositors are permitted to nominate up to four persons for their bank accounts, with options for both simultaneous and successive nominations.\n2. The statutory reporting dates for banks have been shifted from the \"last Friday\" to the \"last day\" of the month or fortnight to reduce manual workload.\n3. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) have been empowered to fix the remuneration of their auditors to attract qualified professionals.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.  \n*Reasoning: All three statements are correct as per the 2025 Act. The Act allows up to 4 nominees, aligns reporting to the last day of the period, and gives PSBs the power to determine audit remuneration (Matches sections 1, 2, and 4).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"By addressing the issue of unclaimed deposits through a modernized nomination framework and strengthening audit independence, the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025 targets both financial inclusion and institutional stability.\" Analyze.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"25:Te55,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nLaunched in its mobile app avatar in January 2025, **Sanchar Saathi** is a citizen-centric tool developed by the **Department of Telecommunications (DoT)** to strengthen mobile security and combat the rising tide of cybercrimes in India, which saw over 20 lakh incidents reported in 2024.\n\n## Core Features of Sanchar Saathi\n\nThe platform provides a suite of tools aimed at protecting digital identities and securing mobile devices:\n\n- **CHAKSU** — A proactive reporting tool that enables users to report suspected fraud communications via calls, SMS, or WhatsApp (e.g., KYC update scams).\n- **IMEI Tracking \u0026 Blocking** — Facilitates the tracing and blocking of lost or stolen phones across India, preventing device cloning and counterfeit sales.\n- **Mobile Connection Verification** — Allows citizens to check the number of mobile connections linked to their identity and report forged KYC details.\n- **Know Your Mobile (KYM)** — Verifies the genuineness of a mobile handset before purchase.\n- **International Call Reporting** — Enables reporting of international calls that are disguised as domestic Indian numbers (+91).\n\n## Impact and Results (as of Dec 2025)\n\nThe platform has delivered measurable results in curbing telecom fraud:\n- **Devices Blocked:** Over 42 lakh stolen/lost mobile devices.\n- **Connections Disconnected:** 1.43 crore+ based on \"Not My Number\" reports.\n- **Fraudulent Connections Removed:** 40.96 lakh.\n- **Financial Savings:** The **Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)** prevented losses worth ₹475 crore.\n- **App Downloads:** 1.4 crore+ since its launch on 17th January 2025.\n\n## Regulatory and Privacy Framework\n\nSanchar Saathi is designed to be **Privacy-First**, activating only with explicit user consent.\n\n- **DPDP Act 2023 Alignment:** The platform limits data collection to legitimate purposes, ensuring transparency and accountability.\n- **IT Act 2000 Compliance:** Adheres to primary laws governing cybercrime and data privacy.\n- **TCCCPR Support:** Enables easy reporting of spam and unsolicited commercial communication (UCC) in line with TRAI regulations.\n\n## Significance for UPSC\n\nIndia is the **world’s second-largest telecom ecosystem** with over a billion subscribers. Sanchar Saathi represents a move toward:\n- **Jan Bhagidari:** Engaging citizens in active governance and cyber-vigilance.\n- **Institutional Trust:** Building confidence in digital services as they become central to healthcare, banking, and e-learning.\n- **Strategic Security:** Reducing the financial and social impact of organized cybercrime networks.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the 'Sanchar Saathi' initiative, consider the following statements:**\n1. It is a portal developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to map cybercrime hotspots in India.\n2. The 'CHAKSU' feature allows users to report suspected fraudulent communications like KYC-updating scams.\n3. The platform provides a 'Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)' to help banks prioritize protection for high-risk numbers.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: Sanchar Saathi was developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, not the Ministry of Home Affairs (Statement 1 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Digital empowerment of citizens through tools like Sanchar Saathi is as critical as hardware infrastructure for a secure 'Viksit Bharat'.\" Discuss the role of user-driven fraud reporting in strengthening India's cybersecurity framework.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"26:Tf50,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nKashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 began on **December 2, 2025**, carrying forward the ancient cultural and civilisational link between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. Launched originally in 2022, this initiative aims to re-establish the movement of ideas, philosophies, and living traditions between these two vibrant cultural geographies.\n\n## What is Kashi Tamil Sangamam?\n\nIt is a celebration of the historical relationship between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. The initiative is anchored by the **Ministry of Education**, with **IIT Madras** and **Banaras Hindu University (BHU)** as principal knowledge partners. It embodies the essence of **Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat**, encouraging people to appreciate cultural richness beyond their own.\n\n## Key Themes of KTS 4.0\n\nThe heart of the 4.0 edition lies in the theme **“Let Us Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam.”** This edition shifts the focus toward linguistic unity and academic exchange.\n\n### 1. Tamil Karkalam (Let Us Learn Tamil)\n- **Deployment:** 50 Hindi-knowing Tamil teachers will be deployed in 50 schools across Varanasi.\n- **Reach:** 1,500 students in Uttar Pradesh will learn introductory Tamil, covering conversation, pronunciation, and alphabets.\n- **Training:** Teachers are trained at the **Central Institute of Classical Tamil (CICT)**.\n\n### 2. Tamil Karpom (Study Tour)\n- **Immersion:** 300 college students from Uttar Pradesh will visit Tamil Nadu in 10 batches.\n- **Institutions:** Hosting institutes include **IIT Madras**, Central University (Pondicherry), Shastra University, and others.\n\n### 3. Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition (SAVE)\n- **Route:** Begins in **Tenkasi (Dakshin Kashi)** on Dec 2, reaching Kashi on Dec 10, 2025.\n- **Significance:** Retraces the civilisational path and honors the legacy of Pandiyan ruler **Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiyan**, who built a Shiva temple in Tenkasi.\n- **Scope:** Highlights linkages from Chera, Chola, Pandya, Pallava, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara periods.\n\n## Evolution of the Sangamam\n\n- **KTS 1.0 (2022):** Inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi; brought public focus to Tamil-Kashi linkages.\n- **KTS 2.0 (2023):** Introduced real-time Tamil translation of the Prime Minister's address.\n- **KTS 3.0 (Feb 2025):** Thematic focus on **Sage Agastya** and visits to the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 and Ram Mandir.\n- **KTS 4.0 (Dec 2025):** Focus on linguistic engagement and structured Tamil teaching in North India.\n\n## Significance for UPSC\n\nThe Kashi Tamil Sangamam is a critical case study for **Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat** and **NEP 2020**’s emphasis on Indian knowledge traditions. It highlights:\n- **Linguistic Unity:** Treating all Indian languages as part of a shared Bharatiya Bhasha family.\n- **Cultural Diplomacy:** Strengthening national unity through direct people-to-people exchange.\n- **Civilisational Continuity:** Rediscovering ancient linkages that shaped India's spiritual and artistic landscape.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. Regarding the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0, consider the following statements:**\n1. The theme for the 4.0 edition is “Tamil Karkalam – Let Us Learn Tamil,” focusing on linguistic learning.\n2. The 'Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition' (SAVE) retraces a civilisational route from Varanasi to Rameshwaram.\n3. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and Banaras Hindu University serve as the principal knowledge partners for the initiative.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 1 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: The SAVE expedition starts in Tenkasi (Tamil Nadu) and reaches Kashi (Varanasi), not from Varanasi to Rameshwaram (Statement 2 is false).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Linguistic appreciation is the most potent bridge for national integration in a culturally diverse India.\" Discuss in the context of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 initiative.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"27:Te7a,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **3rd Asian Youth Games (AYG)** were held in **Manama, Bahrain**, from **October 22 to October 31, 2025**, after a gap of more than a decade. India delivered its best-ever performance in the history of the Games, winning a total of **48 medals** and finishing **6th** in the overall standings.\n\n## What are the Asian Youth Games?\n\nThe Asian Youth Games are a multi-sport event created under the aegis of the **Olympic Council of Asia (OCA)**. They target athletes aged **14 to 18 years** and serve as a stepping stone for larger international competitions like the Youth Olympics and the Olympic Games.\n\n**Evolution of India's Performance:**\n| Edition | Host | Medals (G-S-B) | Rank |\n|---------|------|----------------|------|\n| 2009 | Singapore | 11 (5-3-3) | 11th |\n| 2013 | Nanjing, China | 14 (3-4-7) | 10th |\n| **2025** | **Manama, Bahrain** | **48 (13-18-17)** | **6th** |\n\n## Highlights of AYG 2025\n\nThe 2025 edition featured over 4,000 athletes from all 45 Asian nations competing across 26 sports.\n\n**Key Disciplines for India:**\n- **Boxing:** Emerged as the most successful discipline in terms of gold medals, contributing **4 Gold**, 2 Silver, and 1 Bronze.\n- **Beach Wrestling:** India topped the medal tally with 3 Gold and 2 Silver.\n- **Wrestling:** Added 3 Gold, 2 Silver, and 2 Bronze.\n- **Kabaddi:** Both the boys’ and girls’ teams remained unbeaten, clinching gold medals in the sport's **debut appearance** at the Games.\n\n## Gender Parity and Inclusivity\n\nA defining feature of India's participation was the strong gender balance.\n- **Composition:** The contingent of 229 athletes included **122 women** and 107 men, marking a rare instance where female athletes outnumbered males in a major multi-sport event.\n- **Medal Contribution:** Female athletes accounted for over half (**54.17%**) of India’s total medals and a significant **69.23%** of the gold medals (9 out of 13).\n\n## Institutional Support and Recognition\n\n- **Cash Rewards:** The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced rewards of ₹5 lakh for Gold, ₹3 lakh for Silver, and ₹2 lakh for Bronze medallists. Coaches and kabaddi teams also received significant recognition.\n- **Ecosystem:** The growth is attributed to systematic transformation through programs like **Khelo India**, **Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)** Development, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.\n\n## Significance for India\n\nThe record-breaking run at Manama 2025 reflects a \"systematic transformation\" in India's youth sports infrastructure and a shift toward a more competitive mindset. It establishes a robust pipeline for future Olympic champions and highlights the effectiveness of grassroots sports development.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Asian Youth Games 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. The 3rd edition of the Games was hosted by Manama, Bahrain.\n2. Kabaddi made its debut appearance at the Asian Youth Games in this edition.\n3. In the Indian contingent, female athletes outnumbered male athletes for the first time in this event.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: All statements are correct as per the source. The Games were in Manama, Kabaddi was a debut sport, and there were 122 female athletes vs 107 male athletes.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The performance of India's youth at international sporting events like the Asian Youth Games is a reflection of the nation's ‘soft power’ and social sectors development.\" Discuss the role of gender inclusivity in India's emerging sports ecosystem.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"28:T11c2,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe **Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025** was introduced to resolve deep-rooted inefficiencies and financial strain in India's power distribution sector. It aims to create a future-ready electricity system that aligns with India’s vision of **Viksit Bharat 2047** by ensuring reliable, affordable, and high-quality power for all consumers.\n\n## What is the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025?\n\nThe Bill is a major legislative update designed to modernize the electricity sector by moving away from old monopoly supply models toward a performance-driven approach. It encourages competition between public and private utilities while optimizing network costs through shared infrastructure.\n\n**Key Objectives:**\n- **Rationalising Electricity Cost**: Making Indian industry and logistics more competitive by reducing hidden cross-subsidies.\n- **Financial Viability**: Promoting cost-reflective tariffs to ensure the financial health of the sector.\n- **Consumer Protection**: Fully protecting subsidized tariffs for farmers and low-income households under **Section 65**.\n- **Shared Infrastructure**: Enabling shared network use to avoid wasteful duplication and lower system costs.\n\n## Core Pillars of the Reform\n\n### 1. Structural Reforms and Competition\nThe Bill facilitates regulated competition in electricity distribution by allowing multiple licensees to operate in the same area using shared infrastructure.\n- **Universal Service Obligation (USO)**: All licensees are mandated to provide non-discriminatory access and supply to all consumers.\n- **Performance-Driven Delivery**: Utilities must compete fairly to improve service quality and operational efficiency.\n\n### 2. Tariff and Cross-Subsidy Rationalization\nOne of the most significant changes is the targeted elimination of cross-subsidies that currently inflate costs for productive sectors.\n- **Phased Elimination**: Cross-subsidies for the **Manufacturing Industry**, **Railways**, and **Metro railways** are to be eliminated within **five years**.\n- **Direct Procurement**: Industrial users are enabled to procure power directly, enhancing manufacturing competitiveness.\n\n### 3. Regulatory and Governance Strengthening\nThe Bill strengthens the accountability of regulatory bodies and coordination between different levels of government.\n- **Electricity Council**: A new body established for Centre-State policy coordination and consensus-building.\n- **Empowered SERCs**: State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) can now determine tariffs **suo moto** if applications are delayed and can penalize non-compliance.\n- **Electric Line Authority**: It grants powers similar to the Telegraph Authority under the **Indian Telegraph Act, 1885** for speedier infrastructure development and dispute resolution.\n\n### 4. Sustainability and Innovation\n- **Energy Storage Systems (ESS)**: The Bill introduces definitions and roles for ESS in the power ecosystem.\n- **Non-Fossil Energy**: Obligations for non-fossil energy procurement are strengthened, with penalties for non-compliance.\n\n## Significance\n\nThe Bill is a blueprint for a modern, efficient, and resilient power sector. By dismantling barriers to manufacturing competitiveness and encouraging private sector participation, it seeks to lower the energy cost for Indian industries while maintaining a social safety net for vulnerable sections like farmers.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. It aims to eliminate cross-subsidies for the manufacturing industry and railways within a five-year timeframe.\n2. The Bill mandates the protection of subsidized tariffs for farmers and low-income households.\n3. It establishes an Electricity Council to facilitate policy coordination between the Centre and States.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: The Bill specifically targets the elimination of cross-subsidies for manufacturing, railways, and metros within five years. It explicitly protects subsidized tariffs via Section 65 and creates an Electricity Council for Centre-State coordination.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 seeks to transform India's power distribution sector from a monopoly model to a performance-driven competitive market.\" Discuss the significance of this development for India's manufacturing competitiveness.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"29:T13b9,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nThe Government of India has consolidated **29 central labour laws into four comprehensive Labour Codes**. This historic reform aims to modernize outdated pre-Independence era laws, simplify compliance, and ensure social and wage security for all categories of workers, including those in the unorganized sector and the gig economy.\n\n## The Four Labour Codes\n\nThe reforms are organized around four functional areas:\n\n### 1. The Code on Wages, 2019\nConsolidates four laws (Minimum Wages Act, Payment of Wages Act, Payment of Bonus Act, and Equal Remuneration Act).\n- **Universal Minimum Wage:** Extends the right to minimum wages to all employees (organized and unorganized). Previously, it covered only ~30% of workers.\n- **Floor Wage:** The Central Government will set a statutory floor wage based on minimum living standards; States cannot fix minimum wages below this level.\n- **Gender Neutrality:** Prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender, including **transgender identity**, in recruitment and wages.\n- **Overtime:** Employers must pay overtime at least **twice the normal rate**.\n\n### 2. The Industrial Relations Code, 2020\nAmalgamates the Trade Unions Act, Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, and Industrial Disputes Act.\n- **Fixed Term Employment (FTE):** Allows direct time-bound contracts with parity in wages and benefits.\n- **Retrenchment Threshold:** The approval limit for lay-offs, retrenchment, or closure has been raised from **100 to 300 workers**.\n- **Re-skilling Fund:** Established for retrenched employees, with employers contributing an amount equal to **15 days' wages**.\n- **Strikes \u0026 Lockouts:** Mandatory **14-day notice** for all establishments to promote dialogue.\n\n### 3. The Code on Social Security, 2020\nIntegrates nine social security laws (including EPFO, ESIC, and Maternity Benefit Acts).\n- **Inclusion of Gig Workers:** Introduces definitions for \"gig workers,\" \"platform workers,\" and \"aggregators.\"\n- **Aggregator Contribution:** Companies (aggregators) to contribute **1–2% of their annual turnover** towards social security, capped at 5% of payments to workers.\n- **Gratuity for FTE:** Fixed-term employees are now eligible for gratuity after **one year** of service (previously five years).\n- **ESIC Coverage:** Now applies pan-India, eliminating the \"notified areas\" criteria.\n\n### 4. The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020\nAmalgamates 13 central labour acts (including Factories Act and Mines Act).\n- **Women’s Employment:** Women can work in all establishments during night hours (beyond 7 PM and before 6 AM) with their consent and safety measures.\n- **Migrant Workers:** Broadens the definition of inter-state migrant workers to include those migrating on their own. Benefits include a **lump-sum annual travel allowance**.\n- **Unified Registration:** Replaces 6 separate registrations with one electronic registration for establishments with **10+ employees**.\n\n## Key Institutional Reforms\n\n- **Inspector-cum-Facilitator:** The traditional \"Inspector\" is replaced by a \"Facilitator\" role, focusing on guidance and advisory alongside enforcement.\n- **Decriminalization:** Replaces imprisonment for certain first-time offences with monetary fines (up to 50% of the maximum).\n- **Randomized Inspections:** Introduces web-based, algorithm-driven randomized inspections to improve transparency and reduce harassment.\n\n## Significance for India\n\n- **Ease of Doing Business:** Simplifies registration, licensing, and returns (One Registration, One License, One Return).\n- **Formalization:** Appointment letters and digital record-keeping help bring workers into the formal economy.\n- **Universal Protection:** Extends health and wage security to the unorganized sector, which makes up a vast majority of India's workforce.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Labour Codes enacted in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. Under the Code on Wages 2019, the floor wage set by the Central Government is binding on States.\n2. The Industrial Relations Code 2020 mandates a 14-day notice for strikes only for public utility services.\n3. Fixed-term employees are eligible for gratuity after one year of continuous service under the Social Security Code.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 1 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Under the Wages Code, no state can fix minimum wages below the floor wage set by the Center (Statement 1 is correct). The IR Code mandates a 14-day strike notice for *all* establishments, not just public utilities (Statement 2 is incorrect). Gratuity eligibility for FTE is indeed reduced to 1 year (Statement 3 is correct).*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The consolidation of labour laws into four Codes is a move from 'licensing and policing' to 'facilitation and compliance'.\" Discuss how these reforms balance worker welfare with the flexibility required for industrial growth.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2a:Te08,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia has recorded its highest-ever defence production value of **₹1.54 lakh crore** in FY 2024-25, alongside record exports of **₹23,622 crore**. This milestone reflects the success of the *Atmanirbhar Bharat* initiative and the government's strategic shift from a major importer to a burgeoning global defence manufacturing hub.\n\n## What is Defence Atmanirbharta?\n\nIt is the government's vision to build a self-reliant, globally competitive defence industry through policy reforms, indigenous research, and expanded private sector participation.\n\n**Key Performance Indicators (FY 2024-25):**\n- **Total Production:** ₹1.54 lakh crore.\n- **Total Exports:** ₹23,622 crore (up 12.04% from the previous year).\n- **Private Sector Share:** Increased to **23%** in FY 2024-25.\n- **Export Reach:** India now exports to over **100 nations**, including the US, France, and Armenia.\n\n## Key Procurement Frameworks\n\nThe transformation is driven by two flagship frameworks that streamline how the Armed Forces acquire equipment.\n\n### 1. DAP 2020 (Capital Procurement)\nThe **Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020** prioritizes the *Buy (Indian-IDDM)* category. It focuses on systems that are Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured. It also integrates cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, and space.\n\n### 2. DPM 2025 (Revenue Procurement)\nLaunched in **October 2025** (effective 1 November 2025), the **Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025** simplifies revenue procurement worth approximately ₹1 lakh crore. \n- **Key Highlight:** Reduced liquidated damages (0.1% per week for indigenisation projects) and guaranteed orders for up to five years.\n\n## Industrial Growth \u0026 Innovation\n\n- **Defence Industrial Corridors:** Two corridors—**UP (UPDIC)** and **Tamil Nadu (TNDIC)**—have attracted over ₹9,145 crore in investments as of October 2025.\n- **MSME Ecosystem:** Over **16,000 MSMEs** are now active game-changers in the defence supply chain.\n- **TDF Scheme:** A corpus of **₹500 crore** caters to deep-tech and cutting-edge projects under the Technology Development Fund.\n\n## Significance\n\nThis growth marks a \"decisive shift\" in India's strategic sovereignty. Beyond strengthening national security, the expansion of defence exports serves as a tool of **Export Diplomacy**, building trust and long-term partnerships with friendly foreign countries through the supply of arms, ammunition, and sub-systems.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to India’s defence sector reforms in 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. The Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 was launched to streamline capital acquisitions for the Indian Armed Forces.\n2. In FY 2024-25, the private sector's share in India’s total defence production reached approximately 23%.\n3. India has set a target to achieve defence exports worth ₹50,000 crore by 2029.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 2 and 3 only\n(c) 1 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 2 and 3 only.  \n*Reasoning: DPM 2025 focuses on **Revenue Procurement**, not capital acquisitions (handled by DAP 2020). Statement 2 is correct (increased from 21% to 23%). Statement 3 is correct as the goal for 2029 is ₹3 lakh crore production and ₹50,000 crore exports.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The transition from assembly-line manufacturing to deep-tech indigenous design is the cornerstone of India’s ‘Defence Atmanirbharta’.\" Discuss the significance of the DPM 2025 and DAP 2020 in achieving this transition.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2b:Tf30,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia’s Media and Entertainment (M\u0026E) sector is recognized as a high-potential sunrise industry. With a projected growth of **USD 100 billion by 2030**, the sector is shifting from being a content-consuming nation to a global creator and exporter of intellectual property (IP).\n\n## The AVGC-XR Revolution\n\nThe **Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR)** sector is the core driver of India’s creative resurgence. \n\n**Key Institutional Milestones:**\n- **AVGC Promotion Task Force (2022)**: Formulated the national strategy to make India a global hub.\n- **National AVGC-XR Mission**: Focuses on \"Create in India\" to drive digital content production.\n- **Job Creation**: Projected creation of **20 lakh direct and indirect jobs** over the next 10 years.\n\n## Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT)\n\nThe IICT (unveiled in 2024/2025) serves as the **National Centre of Excellence** for AVGC-XR.\n- **Structure**: Established as a **Section 8 (not-for-profit)** company.\n- **Mumbai Campus**: Inaugurated on July 18, 2025, at the NFDC Complex with an initial budget of **₹400 crore**.\n- **Partnerships**: Collaborative curricula and internships with global majors like **Google, Meta, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Netflix**.\n- **WaveX Incubator**: Launched on August 30, 2025, to nurture media-tech startups.\n\n## Policy Reforms and Infrastructure\n\n### 1. Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023\nA landmark reform to curb piracy and modernize film certification.\n- **Anti-Piracy**: Sections 6AA and 6AB make digital piracy a punishable offense with up to **3 years imprisonment** and fines up to **5% of gross production cost**.\n- **Certification**: Introduces age-based categories and ensures permanent validity for film certificates.\n\n### 2. WAVES Summit\nThe **World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES)** is India’s first integrated global platform for the creative economy.\n- **Inaugural Edition**: Held May 1-4, 2025, in Mumbai.\n- **Impact**: Generated a **₹1,328 crore** business pipeline and a **₹50 crore** investment pool for startups.\n\n### 3. State-Level Initiatives\n- **Maharashtra**: Approved AVGC-XR Policy 2025 with a financial plan of **₹3,268 crore**.\n- **Karnataka**: Implemented a dedicated AVGC-XR Policy 2024–2029.\n\n## Global Footprint and Technical Maturity\n\nIndian studios are no longer just outsourcing hubs but high-value creative collaborators.\n- **Global Blockbusters**: Indian talent contributed to **Avatar** (200+ VFX shots), **Game of Thrones** (dragon animation), and **Thor: The Dark World**.\n- **Domestic Excellence**: Technical maturity demonstrated in films like **RRR** (2,800+ VFX shots) and **Brahmastra**.\n- **Indigenous Gaming**: Rise of home-grown titles like **FAU-G**, **Raji: An Ancient Epic**, and **Indus Battle Royale**.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), consider the following statements:**\n1. It is established as a Section 8 company under the Companies Act.\n2. The institute serves as the National Centre of Excellence for the AVGC-XR sector.\n3. Its first campus was inaugurated at the NFDC Complex in Mumbai in 2025.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: All statements are based on the source. IICT is established as a Section 8 company, serves as the National Centre of Excellence for the AVGC-XR sector, and its Mumbai campus was inaugurated in July 2025.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The AVGC-XR sector represents the convergence of technology, storytelling, and innovation.\" Discuss the significance of the 'Create in India' mission in transforming India from a service-driven outsourcing hub to a global leader in intellectual property creation.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2c:T1053,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nOn **14 November 2025**, the Government of India notified the **Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025**. These rules mark the full operationalisation of the **Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023**, providing a comprehensive framework for the protection and responsible use of digital personal data in India.\n\n## Key Features of DPDP Rules 2025\n\nThe Rules provide the practical roadmap for implementing the SARAL (**Simple, Accessible, Rational, and Actionable**) approach of the 2023 Act.\n\n**Core Provisions:**\n- **Phased Implementation:** An **18-month period** has been introduced for phased compliance, allowing organisations time to adjust systems.\n- **Data Protection Board of India (DPBI):** A digital-first independent body consisting of **four members**. It will oversee compliance, inquire into breaches, and provide online grievance redressal via a dedicated portal and mobile app.\n- **Consent Managers:** These entities, which help individuals manage their permissions, must be companies **based in India**.\n- **Mandatory Response Time:** Data Fiduciaries must address requests for access, correction, or erasure within a maximum of **90 days**.\n- **Breach Notification:** In case of a personal data breach, Fiduciaries must inform affected individuals and the Board without delay using plain language.\n\n## Key Terms \u0026 Stakeholders\n\n- **Data Fiduciary:** The entity deciding the 'why' and 'how' of personal data processing.\n- **Data Principal:** The individual whom the data relates to (includes parents/guardians for children or persons with disabilities).\n- **Data Processor:** An entity processing data on behalf of a Data Fiduciary.\n- **Significant Data Fiduciaries (SDFs):** Entities with higher responsibilities, including conducting independent audits and impact assessments.\n\n## Rights of the Data Principal\n\nThe framework empowers citizens with several key rights:\n- **Right to Consent:** To give, refuse, or withdraw consent at any time.\n- **Right to Know:** To seek information on what data is collected and how it is used.\n- **Right to Access \u0026 Correction:** To obtain a copy of their data and request updates or corrections.\n- **Right to Erasure:** To request the removal of data in certain situations.\n- **Right to Nominate:** To appoint another person to exercise these rights in case of illness or death.\n\n## Penalties for Non-Compliance\n\nThe DPDP framework imposes substantial financial penalties to ensure accountability:\n- **Failure to maintain security safeguards:** Up to **₹250 crore**.\n- **Failure to notify breach or child-related violations:** Up to **₹200 crore**.\n- **Other violations:** Up to **₹50 crore**.\n\n## Alignment with RTI Act\n\nThe DPDP Act revises **Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act** to align with the Supreme Court's **Puttaswamy judgment**, which affirmed privacy as a fundamental right. \n- The revision ensures personal information is shared only after considering privacy interests.\n- **Section 8(2)** of the RTI Act remains operative, allowing disclosure if the public interest outweighs possible harm.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025, consider the following statements:**\n1. Data Fiduciaries are required to address requests for data access or correction within a maximum of 60 days.\n2. Consent Managers providing platforms for managing consent must be companies based in India.\n3. The rules establish a digital-first Data Protection Board of India consisting of four members.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because the Rules mandate a response within ninety (90) days, not 60 days. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as per the notified rules.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) framework seeks to balance the individual's right to privacy with the need to process personal data for lawful purposes.\" Discuss the significance of the 2025 Rules in strengthening India's digital governance. (150 words)**"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2d:T1029,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia celebrates **Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day)** on **November 15** every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of the legendary tribal freedom fighter **Birsa Munda** (born 1874). The year **2024–25** is being observed as **Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh** to mark 150 years of his birth.\n\n## Who was Birsa Munda?\n\nBorn in Ulihatu village (Jharkhand), Birsa Munda was a spiritual reformer and anti-colonial revolutionary who unitied tribal communities against British exploitation.\n\n**Key Contributions:**\n- **The Ulgulan (Great Tumult):** Led the movement (1899–1900) for tribal self-rule and the restoration of **Khuntkatti** (community land rights).\n- **Dharti Aaba:** Known as the \"Father of the Earth,\" he envisioned a moral, self-governed society free from colonial influence.\n- **Resistance:** Challenged British land laws and feudal systems that displaced tribal populations.\n- **Legacy:** Martyred in Ranchi Jail at the age of 25.\n\n## Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum Initiative\n\nTo preserve the underrepresented history of tribal uprisings, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs is establishing **11 museums** across India.\n\n**Major Museums Already Inaugurated:**\n- **Jharkhand (Ranchi):** Bhagwan Birsa Munda Tribal Freedom Fighter Museum.\n- **Chhattisgarh (Raipur):** Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial \u0026 Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum.\n- **Madhya Pradesh (Chhindwara):** Badal Bhoi State Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum.\n- **Madhya Pradesh (Jabalpur):** Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum.\n\n**Other Planned Locations:** Rajpipla (Gujarat), Lambasingi (Andhra Pradesh), Wayanad (Kerala), Hyderabad (Telangana), Tamenglong (Manipur), Kelsih (Mizoram), and Ponda (Goa).\n\n## Notable Tribal Leaders \u0026 Movements\n\nThe museums chronicle several iconic uprisings against British tyranny:\n- **Veer Narayan Singh (Chhattisgarh):** A zamindar from the **Binjhwar tribe** who led the 1856 movement to feed starving people during a famine. He was executed in 1857.\n- **Badal Bhoi (Madhya Pradesh):** Led tribal protests in 1923 at Chhindwara; broke forest laws in 1930.\n- **Raja Shankar Shah \u0026 Kunwar Raghunath Shah (Gond Kingdom):** Poets and descendants of King Nizam Shah who used verses to resist British influence during the 1857 revolt.\n- **Iconic Crusades:** The museums also highlight the **Halba Kranti**, **Bhumkal Kranti** (led by Gundadhur), **Jungle Satyagraha**, and **Rani Cho-Ris Kranti** (a pioneer women-led protest in 1878).\n\n## Digital \u0026 Cultural Initiatives\n\nThe Government has launched several platforms to mainstream tribal knowledge systems:\n- **Adi Sanskriti:** A digital learning platform offering courses on tribal artforms.\n- **Adi Vaani:** An **AI-powered translation tool** designed to preserve and promote indigenous languages.\n- **Tribal Digital Document Repository:** A searchable archive of tribal-related research (repository.tribal.gov.in).\n- **Aadi Mahotsav:** A national festival celebrating tribal crafts, cuisine, and culture.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to tribal movements in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan movement seeking the restoration of the Khuntkatti land system.\n2. Veer Narayan Singh, who participated in the resistance against the British, belonged to the Gond tribe.\n3. The 'Adi Vaani' initiative is an AI-powered tool for the translation of tribal languages.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (b) 1 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct as Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan for Khuntkatti rights. Statement 2 is incorrect because Veer Narayan Singh belonged to the **Binjhwar tribe**, not Gond. Statement 3 is correct as per the digital initiatives listed by the Ministry.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Tribal movements were a significant yet often underrepresented component of India's struggle against colonial rule.\" Discuss the contribution of tribal leaders like Birsa Munda in shaping India’s anti-colonial consciousness. (150 words)**"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2e:T113a,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nIndia is entering a decisive phase in its energy transition, aiming to become a developed nation by 2047 and achieve **Net Zero by 2070**. The **National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM)**, launched in 2023, serves as an umbrella program to establish a green hydrogen ecosystem, reducing fossil fuel imports and decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors.\n\n## What is Green Hydrogen?\n\nGreen Hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable energy (solar or wind) rather than fossil fuels. The process involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis.\n\n**Key Specifications:**\n- **Emission Standard**: Hydrogen is considered \"green\" if total emissions do not exceed **2 kg of CO₂ equivalent** for every 1 kg of hydrogen produced.\n- **Biomass Route**: It can also be produced from biomass (e.g., agricultural waste) provided emissions remain below the same limit.\n- **Renewable Capacity**: By 2030, the Mission aims for **125 GW** of new renewable energy capacity dedicated to production.\n\n## Mission Targets for 2030\n\n- **Production**: At least **5 MMT (Million Metric Tonnes)** of Green Hydrogen annually.\n- **Investment**: Over **₹8 lakh crore**.\n- **Employment**: Creation of more than **6 lakh jobs**.\n- **Import Reduction**: Savings of over **₹1 lakh crore** in fossil fuel imports.\n- **Environment**: Abatement of nearly **50 MMT** of annual greenhouse gas emissions.\n\n## Key Schemes and Frameworks\n\n### 1. SIGHT Scheme\nThe **Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT)** scheme has an outlay of **₹17,490 crore** up to 2029-30. It provides financial incentives for:\n- Manufacturing of electrolyzers.\n- Production of Green Hydrogen.\n\n### 2. Green Hydrogen Hubs\nIn October 2025, three major ports were recognized as Green Hydrogen Hubs:\n- **Deendayal Port Authority** (Gujarat)\n- **V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority** (Tamil Nadu)\n- **Paradip Port Authority** (Odisha)\n\n### 3. Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCI)\nLaunched in April 2025, it provides a framework to assess emissions across the production cycle.\n- **Mandatory**: Obtaining a ‘Final Certificate’ is mandatory for facilities receiving government subsidies or selling hydrogen domestically in India.\n- **Nodal Authority**: The **Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)**.\n\n### 4. SHIP \u0026 R\u0026D\nThe **Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP)** fosters public-private partnerships for R\u0026D.\n- A dedicated **₹400 crore** R\u0026D scheme is powering 23 projects.\n- Collaboration includes institutions like **BARC, ISRO, CSIR, IITs, and IISc**.\n\n## Sectoral Pilots and Innovation\n\n- **Mobility**: NTPC commissioned the world's highest altitude (**3,650 m**) Green Hydrogen Mobility Project in **Leh** (5 intra-city buses).\n- **Transport**: Pilots across 10 routes involving 37 fuel cell and hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles.\n- **Shipping**: Port-based pilots at V.O. Chidambaranar and Deendayal ports. A **Coastal Green Shipping Corridor** is being developed between Kandla and Tuticorin.\n- **Fertilizers**: Recent auctions for long-term supply of green ammonia at **₹55.75 per kg**.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), consider the following statements:**\n1. To be certified as 'Green', the hydrogen production process must not exceed 2 kg of CO₂ equivalent per kg of hydrogen produced.\n2. The Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) scheme provides incentives for electrolyzer manufacturing.\n3. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is the nodal authority for accrediting agencies under the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (d) 1, 2 and 3.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct as the process must not exceed 2 kg of CO₂ equivalent per kg of hydrogen produced. Statement 2 is correct as the SIGHT scheme provides financial incentives for electrolyzer manufacturing. Statement 3 is correct as the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is the designated Nodal Authority for certification.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a strategic pathway toward linking India's sustainability with self-reliance.\" Discuss the potential of Green Hydrogen in decarbonizing India's 'hard-to-abate' industrial sectors.** (150 words)"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"2f:Tf9a,"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"## Context\n\nOn **November 3**, the International Day for Biosphere Reserves was observed globally. India highlighted its network of **18 notified Biosphere Reserves (BRs)**, which serve as \"learning places for sustainable development,\" reconciling biodiversity conservation with sustainable human use.\n\n## What are Biosphere Reserves?\n\nBiosphere reserves are areas identified by national governments to test interdisciplinary approaches in managing social and ecological systems. They include terrestrial, marine, and coastal ecosystems under the sovereign jurisdiction of the states where they are located.\n\n**Key Institutional Frameworks:**\n- **UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme:** An international scientific program that combines natural and social sciences to improve livelihoods and safeguard ecosystems.\n- **World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR):** A dynamic network of sites of excellence fostering international cooperation.\n- **MAB Council:** The governing body (International Coordinating Council) composed of **34 Member States**.\n\n## Biosphere Reserves in India\n\nIndia's network covers approximately **91,425 sq. km**.\n\n- **Total Notified BRs:** 18\n- **UNESCO Recognized (WNBR):** 13\n- **Latest Inclusion:** The **Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve** (Himachal Pradesh) was included in UNESCO’s WNBR in **September 2025**.\n\n## Governance and Financial Support\n\nThe Biosphere Reserve Division of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) administers these areas under a **Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS)**.\n\n- **Funding Pattern:** 60:40 (Central:State) for general states; **90:10** for North Eastern and Himalayan states.\n- **Budgetary Hike:** The allocation for biodiversity conservation under the Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems (CNRE) programme doubled from **₹5 crore (2024-25)** to **₹10 crore (2025-26)**.\n- **Zoning:** Special emphasis is placed on **buffer and transition zones** to provide alternative livelihoods and reduce biotic pressure on the core zone.\n\n## Impact \u0026 Global Rankings\n\nIndia’s conservation efforts have yielded measurable results as reported in the **Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025**:\n- **Forest Area:** India ranks **9th globally**.\n- **Annual Forest Gain:** India ranks **3rd globally**.\n\n## Complementary Conservation Initiatives\n\nIndia’s BR programme works in alignment with several national schemes:\n- **Project Tiger (1973):** Focused on tiger conservation through dedicated reserves.\n- **Project Elephant:** Protects over 60% of the global Asian elephant population.\n- **Green India Mission:** Aims to protect and enhance forest cover while tackling climate change.\n- **Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs):** Act as \"Shock Absorbers\" and transition zones around Protected Areas.\n\n## Aspirant's Corner\n\n### Prelims Check\n**Q. With reference to Biosphere Reserves (BR) in India, consider the following statements:**\n1. All 18 notified Biosphere Reserves in India are part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).\n2. The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh is the latest Indian site to be included in the UNESCO WNBR.\n3. The funding pattern for BRs in Himalayan states follows a 90:10 ratio between the Centre and the State.\n\n**Which of the statements given above are correct?**\n(a) 1 and 2 only\n(b) 1 and 3 only\n(c) 2 and 3 only\n(d) 1, 2 and 3\n\n**Correct Answer:** (c) 2 and 3 only.\n*Reasoning: Statement 1 is incorrect because only 13 out of 18 BRs are recognized by UNESCO WNBR. Statement 2 is correct (included in September 2025). Statement 3 is correct as North Eastern and Himalayan states receive 90:10 funding.*\n\n### Mains Brainstorm\n**\"Biosphere Reserves are not just about protecting nature, but about managing the interaction between social and ecological systems.\" Discuss the role of India's Biosphere Reserves in promoting sustainable livelihoods for forest-dependent communities. (150 words)**"])</script><script>self.__next_f.push([1,"9:[\"$\",\"$1\",\"c\",{\"children\":[[\"$\",\"div\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__homePage\",\"children\":[[\"$\",\"$L7\",null,{\"href\":\"/weekly-current-affairs\",\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__liveBanner\",\"children\":[[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__liveDot\"}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__liveText\",\"children\":[\"UPSC Prelims \",\"2026\"]}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__liveCountdown\",\"children\":\"Start Reading →\"}]]}],[\"$\",\"div\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__brandBanner\",\"children\":[[\"$\",\"div\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__brandTagline\",\"children\":[[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__tagWord\",\"style\":{\"animationDelay\":\"0.1s\"},\"children\":\"Read\"}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__tagDot\"}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__tagWord\",\"style\":{\"animationDelay\":\"0.3s\"},\"children\":\"Retain\"}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__tagDot\"}],[\"$\",\"span\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__tagWord\",\"style\":{\"animationDelay\":\"0.5s\"},\"children\":\"Rank\"}]]}],[\"$\",\"p\",null,{\"className\":\"home-module__Hx0lNG__brandValue\",\"children\":\"Daily Intelligence for Civil Services\"}]]}],[\"$\",\"$Lc\",null,{\"recentWeeks\":[{\"title\":\"Week of 18 Jan 2026\",\"slug\":\"2026-jan-week-3\",\"articles\":[{\"slug\":\"border-roads-organisation-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Sentinel of the Frontiers: Border Roads Organisation’s Strategic Infrastructure for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Infrastructure\",\"tags\":[\"Border Roads Organisation\",\"National Security\",\"Infrastructure\",\"Project DANTAK\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-19T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156986\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Analyze the strategic role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in enhancing India's border connectivity, disaster response, and regional diplomacy for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$d\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"The BRO functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.\",\"'Project DANTAK' is an overseas mission of the BRO aimed at infrastructure development in Bhutan.\",\"The Atal Tunnel is the world's longest highway tunnel located above an altitude of 10,000 feet.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because the BRO has been functioning fully under the Ministry of Defence since 2015-16. Statement 2 is correct (DANTAK in Bhutan since 1961). Statement 3 is correct (Atal Tunnel is 9.02 km long and above 10,000 ft).\"}},{\"slug\":\"chips-to-start-up-c2s-programme-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"C2S Programme: Building India's 85,000 Semiconductor Workforce for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Science \u0026 Technology\",\"tags\":[\"Semiconductors\",\"MeitY\",\"Chip Design\",\"Digital India\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-18T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156978\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"MeitY's Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme aims to train 85,000 professionals and foster India's indigenous semiconductor design ecosystem. Learn more for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$e\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme', consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is a capacity-building initiative launched by the Ministry of Science and Technology.\",\"The programme targets the development of 85,000 industry-ready professionals over five years.\",\"The ChipIN Centre at C-DAC Bengaluru provides shared semiconductor design infrastructure under this programme.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because the C2S Programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), not the Ministry of Science and Technology. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as per the programme guidelines and institutional framework.\"}},{\"slug\":\"international-year-of-cooperatives-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Sahkar se Samriddhi: A Strategic Guide to India's Cooperative Revolution for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Cooperatives\",\"Ministry of Cooperation\",\"PACS\",\"Sahkar se Samriddhi\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-18T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156980\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"2025 is the International Year of Cooperatives. Discover India’s 8.5 lakh cooperative network, digital PACS, and the 'Sahkar se Samriddhi' vision for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$f\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the cooperative sector in India, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives with the theme “Sahkar Se Samridhhi”.\",\"The Tribhuvan Sahkari University is India's first national university dedicated to the cooperative sector.\",\"Every functional Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS) is being digitally linked with NABARD through a common ERP platform.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because the UN theme is “Cooperatives Build a Better World”; “Sahkar Se Samridhhi” is the Indian government's vision. Statement 2 is correct (TSU was setup by converting IRMA). Statement 3 is correct as the ₹2,925 crore project integrates PACS with NABARD via state/district banks.\"}}]},{\"title\":\"Week of 11 Jan 2026\",\"slug\":\"2026-jan-week-2\",\"articles\":[{\"slug\":\"amrit-bharat-express-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Redefining Rail Mobility: Mapping Amrit Bharat Express for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Infrastructure\",\"tags\":[\"Amrit Bharat Express\",\"Indian Railways\",\"Connectivity\",\"Mass Transport\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-17T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156972\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Analyze the features and strategic importance of Amrit Bharat Express, India's flagship non-AC long-distance rail service for affordable mass transit.\",\"content\":\"$10\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Amrit Bharat Express', consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is a premium high-speed train service consisting exclusively of AC-3 Tier and AC-2 Tier coaches.\",\"The fare structure is based on a dynamic pricing model similar to that of Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains.\",\"It features dedicated compartments designed to be disabled-friendly.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because Amrit Bharat Express is a fully non-AC service (General and Sleeper classes). Statement 2 is incorrect because the service follows a transparent fare structure with no dynamic pricing. Statement 3 is correct as it includes Second Class–cum–Luggage–cum–Guard Vans with disabled-friendly compartments.\"}},{\"slug\":\"vande-bharat-rail-modernisation-upsc\",\"title\":\"Vande Bharat Express: The Roadmap to 4,500 Trainsets by 2047 for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Infrastructure\",\"tags\":[\"Vande Bharat\",\"Railways\",\"Make in India\",\"KAVACH\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-16T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156964\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"With 164 trains operational and the Sleeper variant launching in Jan 2026, Vande Bharat is the cornerstone of India's rail modernisation. Key facts for UPSC GS-3.\",\"content\":\"$11\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Vande Bharat Express', consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is India's first indigenously designed semi-high-speed trainset with nearly 90% localisation.\",\"The 'KAVACH' system integrated into the train is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system.\",\"The latest 'Sleeper' variant of Vande Bharat is designed to operate on the inaugural route between New Delhi and Varanasi.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect because the inaugural route for the Vande Bharat Sleeper (launched Jan 2026) is between Howrah and Guwahati. New Delhi–Varanasi was the first route for the original day-chair version launched in 2019.\"}},{\"slug\":\"a-decade-of-startup-india-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Scaling Success: Decoding a Decade of Startup India for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Startup India\",\"Entrepreneurship\",\"Viksit Bharat 2047\",\"Digital Economy\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-15T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156949\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Analyze the 10-year impact of the Startup India Initiative, its flagship schemes like FFS and SISFS, and its role in democratizing entrepreneurship for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$12\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the Startup India ecosystem as of 2025-26, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"India has more than 2 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups.\",\"The majority (over 70%) of these recognized startups are currently concentrated in Tier-I cities.\",\"The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) is managed directly by SIDBI.\"],\"options\":[\"1 only\",\"1 and 2 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is correct (2 lakh+ startups). Statement 2 is incorrect because the source states around 50% are from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, not a 70% concentration in Tier-I. Statement 3 is incorrect; while FFS is managed by SIDBI, SISFS is overseen by an Expert Advisory Committee (EAC) under DPIIT.\"}},{\"slug\":\"india-tunnels-engineering-marvels-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Atal to Zojila: Mastering India’s Landmark Tunnel Projects for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Infrastructure\",\"tags\":[\"Tunnels\",\"Infrastructure\",\"Atal Tunnel\",\"Zojila Tunnel\",\"BRO\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-14T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156935\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"India is rapidly expanding its tunnel infrastructure with landmark projects like the Atal Tunnel and Zojila. Explore the technology and strategic value for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$13\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to tunnel infrastructure in India, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"The Atal Tunnel is officially recognized as the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet.\",\"The New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) is primarily used for underwater metro projects in soft soil.\",\"Tunnel T50 is part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"c\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is correct (recognized by World Book of Records UK). Statement 2 is incorrect because TBMs are typically used for soft soil/underwater, while NATM is preferred for challenging rock formations in the Himalayas. Statement 3 is correct.\"}},{\"slug\":\"gati-shakti-cargo-terminals-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Logistics Reform: Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) Explained for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Infrastructure\",\"Gati Shakti\",\"Indian Railways\",\"Logistics\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-13T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156923\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"India's logistics cost has reached 7.97% of GDP. Discover the role of Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs) in driving this transformation for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$14\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Consider the following statements regarding Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs):\",\"statements\":[\"They are developed under a policy introduced by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.\",\"The 'Engine-on-Load' (EOL) system is used to minimize detentions and ensure optimal infrastructure use.\",\"Terminals developed on private land are not eligible for incentives under the GCT Policy.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect as the GCT Policy was introduced by the Ministry of Railways. Statement 2 is correct (EOL is a key feature). Statement 3 is incorrect; the policy encourages private participation, and terminals like New Sanjali in Gujarat have been built on private land under this policy.\"}},{\"slug\":\"pragati-governance-platform-upsc\",\"title\":\"PRAGATI @ 50: A Decade of Cooperative Governance and Project Delivery for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"Governance\",\"tags\":[\"PRAGATI\",\"Governance\",\"Cooperative Federalism\",\"PM GatiShakti\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-13T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156929\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"PRAGATI has fast-tracked projects worth over ₹85 lakh crore. Learn about its 10-year impact, the SWAGAT origin, and its role in cooperative federalism for UPSC GS-2.\",\"content\":\"$15\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is a three-tier system involving the PMO, Central Secretaries, and State Chief Secretaries.\",\"It draws inspiration from the SWAGAT initiative launched in Gujarat in 2003.\",\"It integrates geo-spatial technology for real-time monitoring of project sites.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"d\",\"reasoning\":\"All three statements are correct. PRAGATI integrates digital data, video conferencing, and GIS (geo-spatial) technology. It was inspired by the SWAGAT model from Gujarat and involves real-time coordination between the Centre and States.\"}},{\"slug\":\"national-youth-day-2026-roadmap-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"National Youth Day 2026: The 2047 Youth Empowerment Roadmap for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"Social Justice\",\"tags\":[\"National Youth Day\",\"MY Bharat\",\"PM-SETU\",\"Viksit Bharat 2047\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-11T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156899\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Commemorating Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary. Discover MY Bharat 2.0, the ₹60,000 Cr PM-SETU scheme, and the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue for UPSC.\",\"content\":\"$16\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Regarding the youth empowerment initiatives in India, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"The PM-SETU scheme aims to upgrade 1,000 Government ITIs using a hub-and-spoke model.\",\"The MY Bharat 2.0 platform features a 'Smart CV Builder' and AI-driven chatbots for youth engagement.\",\"The Kashi Declaration (2025) provides a roadmap for the promotion of traditional Indian sports in rural areas.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 and 2 are correct as per the PM-SETU and MY Bharat 2.0 specs. Statement 3 is incorrect; the Kashi Declaration is specifically a national roadmap for a drug-free youth movement (Nasha Mukt Yuva).\"}}]},{\"title\":\"Week of 4 Jan 2026\",\"slug\":\"2026-jan-week-1\",\"articles\":[{\"slug\":\"india-oman-cepa-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"West Asia Trade: India-Oman CEPA Provisions \u0026 Impact Analysis for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"International Relations\",\"tags\":[\"India-Oman\",\"CEPA\",\"West Asia\",\"Trade Pacts\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-10T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156893\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"The India-Oman CEPA provides 100% duty-free access for 99.38% of India's export value and opens 127 services sectors. A strategic pillar for West Asia trade.\",\"content\":\"$17\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)' between India and Oman, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"Only 50% of India's current export value to Oman will gain duty-free access under this agreement.\",\"The agreement includes a first-of-its-kind provision for the mobility of industrial workers in non-services sectors.\",\"Domestic dairy and cereal products are part of the 'Exclusion List' to protect Indian farmers.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"c\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because the CEPA secures 100% duty-free access for 99.38% of India's export value. Statement 2 is correct; it offers binding assurances for Indian industrial workers. Statement 3 is also correct as dairy and cereals are in the exclusion list.\"}},{\"slug\":\"somnath-swabhiman-parv-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Somnath Swabhiman Parv: Celebrating 1,000 Years of Civilisational Resilience for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-1\",\"subject\":\"History \u0026 Culture\",\"tags\":[\"Somnath Temple\",\"Culture\",\"GS-1\",\"Gujarat\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-10T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156890\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Discover the significance of Somnath Swabhiman Parv 2026, marking 1,000 years of resilience and 75 years of the temple's reconstruction. Key facts for UPSC GS-1.\",\"content\":\"$18\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Consider the following statements regarding the Somnath Temple and the Swabhiman Parv:\",\"statements\":[\"The Somnath Swabhiman Parv 2026 marks 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the temple.\",\"The present temple structure is built in the Vesara style of architecture.\",\"The modern reconstruction of the temple was initiated following a visit by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 1947.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"c\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is correct as the Parv commemorates the 1026 attack. Statement 2 is incorrect; the temple is built in the Kailash Mahameru Prasad style (a variant of the Nagara style). Statement 3 is correct as Sardar Patel vowed to rebuild it on Diwali day, 1947.\"}},{\"slug\":\"digitalizing-indias-dairy-sector-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Digital Dairy: Mapping NDLM and Pashu Aadhaar for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Dairy Sector\",\"Digital India\",\"Agriculture\",\"NDDB\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-09T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156873\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"India is transforming its dairy sector through digital initiatives like Pashu Aadhaar, NDLM, and AMCS to enhance transparency, productivity, and farmer welfare.\",\"content\":\"$19\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Pashu Aadhaar' initiative, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is a 12-digit barcoded unique ID issued to all livestock animals in India.\",\"It serves as a primary key for tracking the health, breeding, and vaccination records of the animals.\",\"The initiative is part of the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM).\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"d\",\"reasoning\":\"All statements are factually correct. Pashu Aadhaar is a 12-digit ID under NDLM (Bharat Pashudhan) used for comprehensive livestock management.\"}},{\"slug\":\"mission-100-railway-electrification-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Mission 100% Electrification: The 99.2% Progress Report for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Indian Railways\",\"Infrastructure\",\"Mission 100% Electrification\",\"Solar Energy\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-06T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156834\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Indian Railways reached 99.2% electrification by November 2025. Discover the shift to 15 km/day pace, solar traction, and benchmarks for UPSC GS-3.\",\"content\":\"$1a\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to Indian Railways' electrification and solar energy initiatives, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"As of November 2025, Indian Railways has electrified more than 99% of its Broad Gauge network.\",\"Every state and Union Territory in India has achieved 100% railway electrification.\",\"Approximately 70% of the railway's commissioned solar power is utilized directly for train traction purposes.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is correct (99.2% electrified). Statement 2 is incorrect because 5 states (Rajasthan, TN, Karnataka, Assam, Goa) still have residual sections. Statement 3 is correct (629 MW out of 898 MW is for traction).\"}},{\"slug\":\"nbs-subsidy-rates-rabi-2025-26-upsc\",\"title\":\"NBS Subsidy Rates: The 2025-26 Rabi Provisions \u0026 DAP Hike for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"Agriculture\",\"Fertilizers\",\"NBS Scheme\",\"Rabi 2025-26\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-05T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156820\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"The Government approved NBS rates for Rabi 2025-26 with a ₹37,952 crore budget. Learn about DAP subsidy hikers, soil health impact, and the iFMS for UPSC GS-3.\",\"content\":\"$1b\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme in India, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It applies to both Nitrogenous (Urea) and Phosphatic \u0026 Potassic (P\u0026K) fertilizers.\",\"The subsidy is determined based on the nutrient content rather than the specific grade of the fertilizer.\",\"The Integrated Fertilizer Management System (iFMS) is used for real-time tracking of fertilizer movement and stock.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect because Urea (Nitrogenous fertilizer) is NOT covered under the NBS scheme; it is under a separate price control regime. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as NBS links subsidy to N, P, K, and S content, and iFMS is the digital backbone for monitoring.\"}},{\"slug\":\"design-linked-incentive-dli-scheme-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"DLI Scheme: Decoding India’s Chip Design Incentives for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Science \u0026 Technology\",\"tags\":[\"Semiconductors\",\"DLI Scheme\",\"MeitY\",\"Startups\",\"MSMEs\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-04T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156811\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"The DLI Scheme aims to build a self-reliant semiconductor design ecosystem in India by supporting startups and MSMEs with financial incentives and EDA tools.\",\"content\":\"$1c\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the 'Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme', consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It is implemented by the Niti Aayog as the nodal agency.\",\"It provides financial incentives for both chip design and the deployment of semiconductor designs in electronics products.\",\"Only startups and MSMEs are eligible for financial support under this scheme.\"],\"options\":[\"2 only\",\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"Statement 1 is incorrect; C-DAC is the nodal agency for implementation. Statement 2 is correct as it includes both Product DLI and Deployment DLI. Statement 3 is incorrect because while startups/MSMEs are the primary focus for design support, other \\\"domestic companies\\\" are also eligible for the Deployment Linked Incentive.\"}},{\"slug\":\"bharati-braille-2026-progress-report-upsc\",\"title\":\"Bharati Braille 2.1: The 2026 Progress Report on Tactile Literacy for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"Social Justice\",\"tags\":[\"World Braille Day\",\"RPwD Act 2016\",\"Social Justice\",\"Inclusion\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2026-01-04T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156810\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"World Braille Day 2026 highlights India's journey from Bharati Braille (1951) to the RPwD Act 2016. Learn about Sugamya Pustakalaya and NEP 2020 for UPSC GS-2.\",\"content\":\"$1d\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to 'Bharati Braille', consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It was first adopted as a single national standard for Indian languages in 1951.\",\"It uses a standard six-dot Braille cell to represent vowels and consonants across multiple scripts.\",\"The National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) is the developer of the script standards.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"d\",\"reasoning\":\"Bharati Braille was standardized in 1951 and uses the 6-dot cell. The NIEPVD (under the Ministry of Social Justice \u0026 Empowerment) handles its development and recently released version 2.1 for feedback.\"}}]},{\"title\":\"Week of 28 Dec 2025\",\"slug\":\"2025-dec-week-4\",\"articles\":[{\"slug\":\"2025-economic-reforms-summary-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Economic Reforms 2025: A Year in Review for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"economic-reforms\",\"gst-2.0\",\"labour-codes\",\"msme\",\"export-promotion-mission\",\"income-tax-act-2025\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-30T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156784\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Comprehensive summary of India's 2025 Economic Reforms for UPSC. Key notes on Income Tax Act 2025, Labour Codes, GST 2.0, MSME thresholds, and Export Promotion Mission.\",\"content\":\"$1e\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the MSME classification thresholds and support measures updated in 2025, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"A Micro enterprise is defined as one where investment does not exceed ₹2.5 crore and turnover does not exceed ₹10 crore.\",\"The turnover limit for a Medium enterprise has been increased to ₹500 crore.\",\"Collateral-free loans for micro and small enterprises under the new support measures are available up to ₹25 lakh.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"According to the 2025 updates, collateral-free loans for micro and small enterprises are available up to ₹10 lakh, not ₹25 lakh (Statement 3 is false).\"}}]}],\"recentMonths\":[{\"title\":\"January 2026\",\"slug\":\"january-2026\",\"articles\":[\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:0:articles:0\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:0:articles:1\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:0:articles:2\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:0\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:1\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:2\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:3\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:4\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:5\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:1:articles:6\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:0\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:1\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:2\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:3\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:4\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:5\",\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:2:articles:6\"]},{\"title\":\"December 2025\",\"slug\":\"december-2025\",\"articles\":[\"$9:props:children:0:props:children:2:props:recentWeeks:3:articles:0\",{\"slug\":\"repm-manufacturing-scheme-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"REPM Scheme: India's Critical Mineral Strategy Explained for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"rare-earth-magnets\",\"repm\",\"critical-minerals\",\"ncmm\",\"kabil\",\"atmanirbhar-bharat\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-27T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156753\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"Medium\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Analysis of India's ₹7,280 crore REPM Scheme for UPSC. Learn about Rare Earth Permanent Magnets, 6000 MTPA target, and reducing import dependence on China.\",\"content\":\"$1f\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Regarding the 'Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM)' 2025, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"The scheme aims to achieve a total domestic manufacturing capacity of 6,000 Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA).\",\"It provides both capital subsidies for integrated facilities and sales-linked incentives over a seven-year period.\",\"In India, monazite—the primary source of rare-earth minerals—is found only in the coastal regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"a\",\"reasoning\":\"While monazite is found in coastal regions, it is also present in inland regions across several states including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and others, as per the resource base data (Statement 3 is false).\"}},{\"slug\":\"industrial-parks-infrastructure-growth-upsc\",\"title\":\"Industrial Parks: Network \u0026 Infrastructure Schemes Explained for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"industrial-parks\",\"infrastructure\",\"dpiit\",\"iilb\",\"iprs\",\"nicdc\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-23T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156676\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Comprehensive UPSC notes on India's 4,500+ industrial parks, IPRS 3.0, IILB, and the Plug-and-Play model. Essential GS-3 data for Prelims and Mains.\",\"content\":\"$20\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to India’s industrial infrastructure, consider the following statements regarding the India Industrial Land Bank (IILB):\",\"statements\":[\"It is a GIS-enabled platform developed by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC).\",\"As of December 2025, it maps over 4,500 industrial parks with approximately 7.70 lakh hectares of total land area.\",\"It allows investors to remotely evaluate land parcels based on infrastructure and connectivity data.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"The IILB was developed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), not the NICDC (Statement 1 is false).\"}},{\"slug\":\"india-new-zealand-fta-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Trade Relations: Mastering the India-New Zealand FTA for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"International Relations\",\"tags\":[\"free-trade-agreement\",\"fta\",\"india-new-zealand\",\"international-trade\",\"stem-visas\",\"ayush\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-22T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156654\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Comprehensive summary of the India-New Zealand FTA 2025 for UPSC. Key notes on 100% duty-free access for Indian exports, $20bn investment, and mobility for STEM graduates.\",\"content\":\"$21\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Regarding the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) 2025, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"New Zealand has offered immediate duty elimination on 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports.\",\"India has provided reciprocal 100% duty-free access for New Zealand's dairy and agricultural products.\",\"The agreement includes a dedicated Annex on Health and Traditional Medicine (AYUSH) for the first time.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"b\",\"reasoning\":\"India has kept 29.97% of lines in exclusion, specifically protecting sensitive sectors like Dairy and Agriculture (Statement 2 is false).\"}},{\"slug\":\"shanti-bill-nuclear-energy-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"SHANTI Bill: Nuclear Energy Reforms Explained for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-2\",\"subject\":\"Polity \u0026 Governance\",\"tags\":[\"nuclear-energy\",\"shanti-bill\",\"aerb\",\"clean-energy\",\"smr\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-19T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156593\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Key features of the SHANTI Bill 2025 (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy). Essential GS-2 notes on legislative oversight and AERB statutory status.\",\"content\":\"$22\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the SHANTI Bill 2025, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"It provides statutory recognition to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for the first time.\",\"The management of spent fuel (reprocessing and recycling) is now open for private sector participation under the Bill.\",\"It aims to scale India's nuclear energy capacity to 100 GW by the year 2047.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"c\",\"reasoning\":\"While the Bill enables limited private participation in power generation, management of spent fuel and heavy water production remain strictly reserved for the Central Government (Statement 2 is false).\"}},{\"slug\":\"dhruv64-indigenous-processor-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"DHRUV64: India's First Indigenous Server Processor for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Science \u0026 Technology\",\"tags\":[\"semiconductors\",\"atmanirbhar-bharat\",\"c-dac\",\"risc-v\",\"dir-v\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-15T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156505\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Everything about DHRUV64, India’s first 1 GHz indigenous microprocessor developed by C-DAC. Key UPSC notes on RISC-V, DIR-V, and Semiconductor Mission.\",\"content\":\"$23\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"Regarding the DHRUV64 microprocessor launched recently, which of the following statements is/are correct?\",\"statements\":[\"It is a 64-bit dual-core microprocessor with a clock speed of 1.0 GHz.\",\"It has been developed by the IIT Madras team that previously created the SHAKTI processor.\",\"It is based on the RISC-V open-source architecture, reducing dependence on foreign IP.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"c\",\"reasoning\":\"DHRUV64 was developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), not IIT Madras. SHAKTI was the project from IIT Madras (Statement 2 is false).\"}},{\"slug\":\"banking-laws-amendment-act-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Banking Laws: Key Provisions of the 2025 Amendment Act for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Economy\",\"tags\":[\"banking-reforms\",\"rbi\",\"ppsb\",\"financial-inclusion\",\"audit-reforms\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-04T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156313\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"Medium\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Understand the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025. Key UPSC notes on multiple nominations, PSB audit reforms, and substantial interest threshold changes.\",\"content\":\"$24\",\"quiz\":{\"question\":\"With reference to the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025, consider the following statements:\",\"statements\":[\"For the first time, depositors are permitted to nominate up to four persons for their bank accounts, with options for both simultaneous and successive nominations.\",\"The statutory reporting dates for banks have been shifted from the \\\"last Friday\\\" to the \\\"last day\\\" of the month or fortnight to reduce manual workload.\",\"Public Sector Banks (PSBs) have been empowered to fix the remuneration of their auditors to attract qualified professionals.\"],\"options\":[\"1 and 2 only\",\"2 and 3 only\",\"1 and 3 only\",\"1, 2 and 3\"],\"answer\":\"d\",\"reasoning\":\"All three statements are correct as per the 2025 Act. The Act allows up to 4 nominees, aligns reporting to the last day of the period, and gives PSBs the power to determine audit remuneration (Matches sections 1, 2, and 4).\"}},{\"slug\":\"sanchar-saathi-telecom-security-for-upsc\",\"title\":\"Sanchar Saathi: A Guide to India’s Digital Safety Fortress for UPSC\",\"type\":\"current-affairs\",\"category\":\"GS-3\",\"subject\":\"Governance \u0026 Cyber Security\",\"tags\":[\"sanchar-saathi\",\"cyber-security\",\"telecom\",\"chaksu\",\"dpdp-act\"],\"dateISO\":\"$D2025-12-02T00:00:00.000Z\",\"sourceUrl\":\"https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156294\u0026ModuleId=3\",\"importance\":\"High\",\"examStage\":\"Integrated\",\"description\":\"Analysis of the Sanchar Saathi app and portal. 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