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National Agriculture Code (NAC)

 Purpose: To create a national framework for agriculture practices based on agroclimatic

zones, crop types, and socio-economic diversity.
 Objectives:
o Ensure quality agriculture and decision-making.
o Integrate SMART farming, sustainability, traceability.
o Provide guidelines for policymakers and farmers.
 Deadline: Draft to be completed by October 2025.

Standardized Agriculture Demonstration Farms (SADF)

 Objective: To test and implement agricultural practices based on Indian Standards.

 Collaboration: MoUs with 10 agricultural institutes.
 Purpose: Serve as learning centers for farmers, officials, and industry experts.

Humsafar Policy

 Launched by: Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

 Aim: Improve highway travel with standardized amenities.
 Facilities: Clean toilets, baby care rooms, wheelchair access, EV charging, and parking
spaces.
 App: Rajmarg Yatra allows users to report issues and access services.
 Environmental Focus: Provisions for water conservation, waste recycling, and solar
energy.

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) and Krishonnati

Yojana (KY)

 Merger: Merged into two umbrella schemes for agriculture.

 Total Fund: Rs 1,01,321.6 crore.
o PM-RKVY: Rs 57,074.72 crore for sustainable agriculture.
o KY: Rs 44,246.89 crore for food security.
 Flexibility: States can reallocate funds for specific needs.

International Energy Efficiency Hub (IEEH)

 India’s Participation: India joins IEEH to promote global energy efficiency.

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 Members: 16 countries including the USA, China, and EU.

 Benefits: Helps India transition to a low-carbon economy and improve energy security.

Anna Darpan

 Initiative by: Food Corporation of India (FCI).

 Purpose: Modernize the supply chain with an integrated system.
 Features:
o Mobile-first, user-friendly interface.
o Data-driven decision-making.
o Integration of internal systems for improved efficiency.

Bidkin Industrial Area (BIA)

 Inaugurated by: Prime Minister in Maharashtra.

 Location: 7,855 acres in Maharashtra, part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor.
 Cost: Rs 6,414 crore, developed in 3 phases.
 Connectivity: Near NH-752E, Samruddhi Mahamarg, Aurangabad railway station, and
Aurangabad Airport.
 Infrastructure: Roads, water, power, sewage, and effluent treatment plants ready.
 Investment: Companies like Ather Energy, Toyota-Kirloskar, JSW Green Mobility
investing.
 Economic Impact: Expected to drive socio-economic growth, industrialization, and
export growth.

Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme

 Launched by: Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

 Goal: Provide internships to 1 crore youth over five years.
 Sectors: Oil, gas, energy, banking, hospitality, automotives, and more.
 Eligibility: For youth aged 21-24, must have a secondary education or a relevant
diploma/degree.
 Financial Assistance: ₹5,000/month stipend, plus a ₹6,000 one-time support.
 CSR Participation: Companies selected based on CSR expenditure.
 Exclusions: Graduates from IITs, IIMs, and those who have completed certain
apprenticeships.

Samarth Scheme (Textile Sector)

 Objective: Skill development for 3 lakh people in textiles (FY 2024-26).

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 Budget: Rs 495 crore.

 Focus: Skilling, upskilling, and placement in textiles (excluding spinning and weaving).
 Employment: 70% placement in entry-level and 90% in upskilling programs.
 Outcomes: 3.27 lakh trained, with 79.5% employed, and 88.3% women trained.

Decline in India’s Forex Reserves

 Drop: $10.7 billion decline to $690.43 billion.

 Reason: Drop in Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) by $10.5 billion.
 Forex Reserves: Managed by RBI, key components include FCAs, Gold, Special
Drawing Rights (SDRs), and Reserve Tranche Position.

eShram One Stop Solution

 Objective: Provide unorganized labor access to social security and welfare schemes.
 Features: Single platform for identification and implementation of schemes for
unorganized workers.

Z-Morh Tunnel

 Location: Connects Sonamarg with Kangan town in Kashmir.

 Length: 6.4 km, part of the Zojila tunnel project for all-weather connectivity.
 Strategic Importance: Ensures quick military access to Ladakh and reduces dependence
on air transportation.

Economic Freedom of the World Report (2022)

 Top Economies: Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland, New Zealand, USA.

 Findings:
o MEFPs (Most Economically Free Places) have higher GDP per person and better
quality of life.
o In LEFPs (Least Economically Free Places), extreme poverty and child labor are
higher.
o MEFPs report better environmental performance and less corruption.
o People in MEFPs are more satisfied with life and tolerant of minorities.

1. First Dry Port in Bihar (Bihta)

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 Bihar has inaugurated its first dry port at Bihta near Patna, run by Pristine Magadh
Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. in a PPP model.
 Significance:
o Serves eastern India, with a potential impact on Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and
Odisha.
o Linked by rail to major ports like Kolkata, Haldia, Visakhapatnam, and others.
o Helps boost exports from Bihar, which is a major producer of fruits, vegetables,
maize, and has strong food processing potential.
o Bihar's exports were valued at Rs 20,000 crore in 2022-23.

2. Geographical Indications (GI) Tag for Assam

 Eight products from Assam have received the GI tag, including traditional foods and rice
beer varieties.
 Rice Beer Varieties:
o Bodo Jou Gwran (high alcohol content), Maibra Jou Bidwi (traditional fermented
drink), and Bodo Jou Gishi (fermented rice beer).
 Traditional Food Products:
o Bodo Napham (fermented fish), Bodo Ondla (rice powder curry), Bodo Narzi
(semi-fermented food with jute leaves), and more.

3. SATHI Portal

 The Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare launched the SATHI portal to
enhance seed traceability, certification, and inventory management.
 It integrates various verticals of the seed chain, such as research organizations, seed
certification, licensing, and farmer registration.

4. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

 The Union Government has doubled the loan limit under PMMY to Rs 20 lakh to
encourage entrepreneurship.
 PMMY Performance:
o 66.8 million loans worth Rs 5.4 trillion sanctioned in 2023-24.
o The gross NPA in Mudra loans decreased to 3.4% in FY24.

5. 21st Livestock Census

 The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying launched the 21st Livestock
Census, with enumeration taking place from October 2024 to February 2025.
 It will cover 30 crore households and 16 species, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats,
and poultry.

6. Guidelines for Seaweed Import

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 The Union Government notified guidelines for importing live seaweeds to enhance
seaweed farming in India.
 The guidelines will support socio-economic development in coastal villages and improve
environmental sustainability.

7. Global Innovation Index 2024

 India improved to the 39th position out of 133 economies, marking a steady
improvement.
 India leads in Central and Southern Asia, excelling in ICT services exports, venture
capital, and unicorn companies.

1. Nobel Economics Prize 2024

 Awarded to: Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson.

 Research Focus: Their work emphasizes the importance of societal institutions for a
country's prosperity, particularly how colonial-era institutions affect the economic
trajectory of nations.
 Notable Works:
o Acemoglu and Robinson co-authored Why Nations Fail (2012).
o Johnson and Acemoglu co-authored Power and Progress (2023).

2. SARTHIE 1.0 Initiative

 Launched by: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE).

 Objective: To address the needs of vulnerable sections, including SCs, OBCs, senior
citizens, transgender persons, and others, through awareness, legal support, and easier
access to government welfare schemes.
 Alignment with SDGs: Focuses on eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and
promoting social protection policies.

3. Jal Hi Amrit

 Part of AMRUT 2.0: Aims to provide universal tap water supply to households in all
statutory towns of India.
 Duration: 2021-2026.
 Goal: To ensure access to clean and safe drinking water in urban areas.

4. Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan

 Launched by: The Prime Minister in Jharkhand.

 Budget: ₹79,156 crores (central government: ₹56,333 crores, states: ₹22,823 crores).
 Objective: To transform socio-economic conditions in tribal villages, focusing on
infrastructure, healthcare, education, and livelihood improvement.

5. Story of Lady Justice

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 New Statue at the Supreme Court: The statue of Lady Justice is six feet tall, wearing a
saree and holding the Constitution of India instead of a sword.
 Symbolism: The absence of a blindfold represents the idea that "Law is not blind; it sees
everyone equally."
 Artist: Vinod Goswami, a muralist and teacher at the College of Art in Delhi.
 Historical Context: Lady Justice’s origins date back to Greek and Roman mythology.
The blindfold, symbolizing impartiality, was added during the Renaissance.

These initiatives and developments highlight efforts to empower marginalized communities,

enhance justice, and ensure sustainable development in India.

 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP):

 Sales Milestone: ₹1,000 crores achieved in October 2024 (ahead of previous year's
December target).
 Objective: Provide affordable quality generic medicines via Janaushadhi Kendras.
 History: Launched in 2008, revamped in 2015, and renamed in 2016.
 Key Stats:
o 14,000 Janaushadhi Kendras nationwide.
o Over 1 million daily visitors.
o 1,965 medicines and 293 surgical items available.
o 206 new medicines and 13 surgical devices added in 2023.
 Impact: Reduces healthcare costs, promotes generic medicines, and ensures accessibility
for all.

 Bone Ossification Test in Law:

 Context: Used in a murder case to determine if the accused was a minor (claimed age 17,
police records stated 19).
 Test Method: X-rays of bones (usually hands and wrists) are compared to growth
standards (e.g., Greulich & Pyle Atlas).
 Purpose: To determine biological age when birth certificates are unavailable.
 Court Rulings:
o Ossification tests are a last resort.
o Results offer age ranges, not precise ages, and must be considered with other
evidence.
o Courts caution on margin of error, especially in sensitive cases (e.g., under
POCSO Act).

 Doctrine of Lis Pendens:

 Meaning: Refers to "pending litigation" and prevents property transfers during an

ongoing dispute over the property, ensuring the rights of the plaintiff are maintained.
 Legal Basis: Section 52 of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 (TOPA) regulates property
transfers during litigation.
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 Effect of Transfer: A property transfer during litigation does not make the transfer void
but binds the new owner to the court's final decision.
 Conditions: For Lis Pendens to apply, a suit must be pending, non-collusive, and without
court authorization, any property transfer will be subject to the case outcome.
 Exceptions: Court-approved transfers are allowed but must protect the other party’s
rights.
 Competency of Court: The doctrine also applies in arbitration and court sales, ensuring
the litigation outcome holds precedence.

 Civic Police Volunteers (CPVs) in West Bengal:

 Role: CPVs assist in non-critical police duties like traffic management and law
enforcement support. They are not permanent police employees.
 Recruitment: Began in 2011, with eligibility criteria like local residency and age (20+).
Educational requirements were lowered over time.
 Controversies: Questions on transparency in recruitment, misuse in law and order
situations, and allegations of political favoritism.
 Legal Issues: The Calcutta High Court raised concerns about recruitment practices and
the temporary nature of CPVs' employment.
 Criticism: Cases of misconduct by CPVs and political bias in recruitment have been
reported, including the controversial death of student leader Anish Khan.

 Right to Unionize:

 Legal Recognition: The right to form and join unions is protected under Article 19(1)(c)
of the Indian Constitution and the Trade Unions Act, 1926.
 Collective Bargaining: Unions represent workers in negotiating wages, work hours, and
other employment conditions, with statutory backing under the Industrial Disputes Act
(IDA).
 Right to Strike: The right to strike is legal but restricted under the IDA, requiring notice
and adherence to specified procedures.
 Samsung India Workers’ Union (SIWU): A strike at Samsung’s Chennai plant was
called off due to concerns over the union's registration. Samsung objects to the use of
"Samsung" in the union’s name, citing trademark laws. However, legal precedents
support that non-commercial unions do not violate trademark laws.
 Global Comparisons: Similar volunteer or part-time policing models exist in the UK
(Special Constabulary) and Japan (Koban System).

Abetment of Suicide

 Definition: Abetment refers to instigating, conspiring, or aiding someone to commit an

act, as defined in Section 45 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (formerly
Section 107 of the IPC).
 Punishment: Under Section 108 BNS (Section 306 IPC), abetment of suicide is
punishable with up to 10 years in prison and a fine.
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 Case Example: The Supreme Court ruled in a case involving Rajeev Jain's suicide,
influenced by workplace pressure. It clarified that direct incitement must be proven for
abetment.
 Sentimental vs. Official Relationships:
o Sentimental relationships (e.g., family members) may have a lower threshold for
proving abetment.
o Official relationships (e.g., employer-employee) require clear evidence of intent.
 Court’s Ruling: The case against Jain’s employers was quashed, emphasizing that
without clear intent to cause suicide, the legal process should not be abused.
 Previous Rulings: The courts have set a high bar for proving abetment, requiring clear
intent to push someone toward suicide (e.g., M Mohan v State, 2011).

Third-Party Litigation Funding (TPLF)

 Definition: TPLF is when a third party (unconnected to the dispute) funds a plaintiff’s
legal costs in exchange for a share of the winnings if the case is successful.
 Global Usage: Common in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Australia, TPLF supports
access to justice in commercial and civil disputes.
 Regulatory Landscape in India: TPLF is not prohibited in India. The Supreme Court
(2018) allowed it as long as lawyers aren’t involved in funding.
 Benefits of TPLF:
o Financial Relief: Covers legal costs, enabling plaintiffs to focus on their case.
o Access to Justice: Helps individuals or businesses who cannot afford litigation.
o No Risk for Plaintiffs: If the case fails, no repayment is required.
o Encourages Merit-Based Claims: More people can pursue valid claims.
o Support for Complex Cases: Helps fund complex, high-stakes cases.
 Challenges and Concerns:
o Influence on Legal Strategy: Funders may push for early settlements or
strategies that maximize their profit.
o Exploitation of Litigants: Funders may demand a high share of winnings.
o Focus on Profitable Cases: Socially significant but less profitable cases may be
neglected.
o Legal Uncertainty: Lack of a formal regulatory framework for TPLF in India
creates ambiguity, affecting its growth and use.

MLA-LAD Funds

The Delhi Government has increased the Member of Legislative Assembly Local Area
Development (MLA-LAD) fund from ₹10 crore to ₹15 crore per year, making it the highest
allocation in India.

Overview of MLA-LAD Funds

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The MLA-LAD fund is modeled after the MPLAD (Member of Parliament Local Area
Development) scheme, aiming to allocate funds for developmental projects within
constituencies.

 Objective: To support local development by enabling MLAs to recommend specific

projects for funding.
 Funding: Funds are provided annually to MLAs as grants to carry out development
work.
 Functioning: MLAs recommend projects to district authorities, who allocate funds
within the given guidelines.

Types of Projects Funded

1. Infrastructure Projects: Focus on durable infrastructure like roads, parks, sewer

systems, and streetlights. Funds are sometimes redirected during emergencies, such as for
COVID-19 relief.
2. Quick Turnaround Projects: The projects must be completed within the financial year
to ensure accountability.

Allocation per State

 States like Uttar Pradesh allocate ₹5 crore per MLA, while states like Tripura allocate
much less (₹35 lakh).
 Delhi, which has an MLA-LAD scheme, has used funds for school upgrades, public
libraries, and transport projects.
 Some states like Haryana and Punjab lack such schemes.

Challenges in Fund Utilization

 Underutilization: Many states fail to fully use their MLALAD allocations, with
Karnataka utilizing only 32% in 2019-20.
 Misallocation: Funds are sometimes used for politically motivated projects rather than
community needs.
 Bureaucratic Delays: Complex approval processes can delay the start of projects.
 Awareness and Coordination: A lack of awareness about eligible projects and poor
coordination among stakeholders often hinders project execution.

Recent Developments

 Some states like Odisha have introduced real-time tracking systems to ensure
transparency.
 States like Karnataka have launched similar regional development schemes for
underserved areas.
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Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)

The OCI scheme was introduced in 2005 to grant long-term residency to Persons of Indian
Origin (PIOs).

Eligibility

To be eligible for an OCI, one must have:

 Been an Indian citizen or eligible for Indian citizenship on January 26, 1950.
 Be a descendant of an Indian citizen.
 Be the spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI holder.

Privileges of OCI Holders

 Lifelong Visa: A multi-purpose, multiple-entry visa for visiting India.

 Exemption from Registration: No need to register with local authorities, regardless of
stay duration.
 Employment: OCIs can work in certain professions like medicine and law, but cannot
hold government positions or join the armed forces.

Restrictions on OCI Holders

 Political Restrictions: Cannot vote, hold elected positions, or hold constitutional posts.
 Passport: OCIs cannot hold an Indian passport but are given an OCI card.
 Employment: Cannot work in government sectors.

Recent Changes

 2021 Gazette Notification: OCIs were reclassified under FEMA (Foreign Exchange
Management Act) as foreign nationals, affecting their economic and financial rights.

Bombay HC Scraps IT Rules on Government Fact-Check Unit (FCU)

The Bombay High Court recently struck down provisions of the Information Technology
(Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023, which
established a Government Fact-Check Unit (FCU) to flag "fake news" related to government
business.

Key Provisions of IT Amendment Rules

 Expansion of Fake News Definition: The amendment expanded the definition of "fake
news" to include content about government matters.
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 Role of FCUs: FCUs were empowered to flag content as "fake" and inform social media
platforms for removal.
 Impact on Social Media: Platforms were required to remove flagged content to maintain
their "safe harbor" status, granting them legal immunity.

Concerns Raised

 Free Speech: Critics argued that the rules infringed on free speech by giving the
government the authority to be the "arbiter of truth."
 Lack of Independent Oversight: The rules lacked safeguards for impartial fact-
checking.
 Ambiguity of "Fake News": The broad definition of "fake news" created concerns over
potential misuse.

Court Verdict

 Violation of Free Speech: The court ruled that the amended rules violated the right to
free speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
 Government Overreach: The rules allowed the government to unilaterally determine the
truth of content concerning itself, with vague terms like "fake" and "misleading" that
could be misused.
 Impact on Intermediaries: Platforms could lose their safe harbor status, leading to over-
censorship of content.

Outcome

 The Bombay High Court ruled against the rules by a 2-1 majority, citing violations of
free speech and disproportionate government interference in digital content. The case is
likely to continue as the government may appeal to the Supreme Court.

SCO Summit 2024

 Location & Focus: The 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting was held in
Islamabad, Pakistan, focusing on trade and economic agendas.
 Indian Participation: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar led the Indian delegation,
marking the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nine years. The
meeting also featured discussions on potentially resuming cricket ties between India and
Pakistan, including India's participation in the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.

19th East Asia Summit

 PM Modi's Speech: PM Modi highlighted ASEAN’s central role in Indo-Pacific

regional architecture, India's Indo-Pacific Vision, and cooperation with the Quad.
 About EAS: A forum for leaders from East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and
Oceania to discuss political, security, and economic challenges. EAS includes 18
countries, and India has been a member since 2005.
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Reforming Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs)

 G20 Report: The G20 Independent Expert Group assessed MDBs' progress in expanding
lending and mobilizing private capital.
 Key Recommendations: Increase financial commitments, enhance private sector
involvement, and improve MDB governance. MDBs must meet the "triple agenda" to
eliminate poverty, promote growth, and finance global public goods.

Attack on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon

 Incident: Two UN peacekeepers were injured by an Israeli tank near Lebanon's border
with Israel. This reflects rising tensions and calls for improved peacekeeping efforts in
the region.

India's Funding to WHO

 Traditional Medicine Centre: India pledged $250 million to establish the WHO Global
Centre for Traditional Medicine in Gujarat, alongside significant funding for health
initiatives.

149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly

 Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla led India's delegation to the IPU Assembly in Geneva,
emphasizing the importance of science, technology, and innovation for global peace and
sustainability.

Cyber Security Concerns and Actions

 Mobile Connections Disconnected: India’s Ministry of Telecommunications will

disconnect 2.17 crore mobile connections tied to cybercrime, in response to the growing
issue of "cyber slavery" and frauds originating in Southeast Asia.
 Digital Frauds: Over ₹120 crore was lost to digital arrest frauds between January and
April 2024. This represents a significant cybersecurity challenge for India.

Quad Naval Exercises

 Malabar 2024: India, Australia, Japan, and the US conducted comprehensive naval
exercises in the Bay of Bengal to enhance interoperability and regional maritime security.

India’s Fourth Nuclear Submarine

 S4 Launched*: India launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine,

enhancing its nuclear deterrence with advanced reactors and submarine-launched ballistic
missiles.

Terrorist Attack on Z-Morh Project

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 Attack on Infrastructure: Seven workers were killed in a terrorist attack targeting the
Z-Morh tunnel project in Jammu and Kashmir. This attack highlights vulnerabilities in
peripheral areas, potentially aimed at disrupting peace in the region post-Article 370
abrogation.

Army Strengthens Self-Reliance through Tech Integration

 Swavlamban Shakti: Collaboration between the Army and the defense industry to
develop cutting-edge solutions for warfare, showcasing indigenous innovations such as
drones, robotic mules, and laser-based communication systems.
 Akashteer Air Defense Systems: India’s acquisition of 100 Akashteer air defense
systems from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to enhance air defense capabilities.
 Atma Nirbhar Bharat Program: Focus on self-sufficiency in defense electronics by
2025.
 Innovation for Defence Excellence & Technology Development Funds: Focused on
indigenization.
 Naval Unified Domain (NUD): Encrypted cyber communication network for the Indian
Navy, enabling easy data segregation and analysis.

Commemorative Events for the 62nd Anniversary of the Battle of Walong

 Marking the 62nd anniversary of the Battle of Walong in Arunachal Pradesh,

commemorative events are being held, including the inauguration of the renovated
Walong War Memorial and new border infrastructure. These will culminate on Walong
Day (November 14) with the inauguration of the war memorial.

Paramesh Sivamani Takes Over as Coast Guard Chief

 Paramesh Sivamani became the 26th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG),
which operates under the Ministry of Defence.

Launch of 75 Border Infrastructure Projects

 Rajathan Singh launched 75 border infrastructure projects focused on areas near Jammu
& Kashmir, Ladakh, and the Northeast, including roads and bridges managed by the
Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Indian Air Force Day 2024

 The Indian Air Force observed its 92nd Air Force Day on October 8, 2024. The theme for
2024 was “Bhartiya Vayu Sena - Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar” (Potent, Powerful, and
Self-Reliant).

Completion of Development Trials of VSHORAD

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 The development trials for the miniaturized 4th Generation Very Short Range Air
Defence System (VSHORAD) have been completed by DRDO. This system will replace
the Army’s aging Igla systems and is now ready for user trials and production.

KAZIND-2024

 The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024 was held
in Auli, Uttarakhand.

S-400 Missile Systems

 The final two squadrons of the S-400 air defense missile system will be delivered to India
by 2025. The system is designed to track and engage threats up to 400 km.

Crackdown on Civil Society and NGOs in India

 The Income Tax (I-T) department recently canceled the FCRA licenses of some NGOs,
including the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), following allegations of violating
provisions of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

First Woman to Head Armed Forces Medical Services

 Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin became the first woman officer to take over as the
Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).

Operation Chakra-III

 CBI arrested 26 individuals involved in a cybercrime network that manipulated victims in

India and abroad into transferring funds through fake tech support scams.

Parliamentary Committee on Hybrid Warfare

 The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has prioritized discussions on India’s

readiness to counter hybrid warfare, which involves non-kinetic tactics like cyberattacks,
psychological operations, and information manipulation.

Government Advisory on Hoax Bomb Threats

 The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued an advisory to

social media platforms urging them to take responsibility for hoax bomb threats, warning
of legal action for non-compliance.

Aviation Security and Bomb Threats

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 The government is considering amendments to strengthen aviation security laws,

including expanding provisions to address bomb threats on the ground, and updating
relevant acts like the Aircraft Act and Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of
Civil Aviation Act.

 Weather Forecasting at the Gram Panchayat Level: The Indian Government has initiated
localized weather forecasts for rural communities at the Gram Panchayat level to improve
agricultural practices and disaster management. This effort is being led by the Ministry of
Panchayati Raj in collaboration with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the
Ministry of Earth Sciences. It will provide hourly updates on temperature, wind speed, rainfall,
and more, accessible via e-GramSwaraj and other apps.

 Cloud Chamber under Mission Mausam: India is setting up its first cloud chamber at the
Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, as part of Mission Mausam, which aims
to improve weather forecasting and modify weather events like rainfall. The chamber will
simulate cloud formation conditions to study monsoon clouds and improve weather modification
strategies.

 Cloud Seeding in India: India's past cloud seeding experiments under the CAIPEEX program
showed that cloud seeding could increase rainfall in certain regions, contributing to water
management strategies in drought-prone areas.

 Permafrost and Climate Change: Permafrost, found in cold regions like the Arctic, is
thawing due to global warming, releasing greenhouse gases and causing environmental
instability. This thawing can lead to infrastructure damage and changes in ecosystems, posing
risks to both human health and the environment.

 Casuarina Tree Revival: After Cyclone Gaja's destruction, casuarina plantations in Tamil
Nadu have rebounded. The casuarina tree is known for its ability to grow in saline soils and
stabilize coastal environments. India is the largest producer of casuarina globally.

 Greenhushing: A rising practice where companies downplay their environmental efforts to

avoid criticism, contrasting with greenwashing, which involves exaggerating environmental
achievements.

 Mount Everest's Rising Height: Research indicates that Mount Everest may be increasing in
height due to isostatic rebound, a geological process where Earth's crust rises after being relieved
of weight, such as from glaciers or erosion. This process, along with changes in nearby rivers,
contributes to Everest's gradual rise.
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 EnviStats India 2024: A publication from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation (MoSPI) that provides environmental data, including energy, ocean, soil
nutrient, and biodiversity accounts. It highlights India's progress in energy transition, mangrove
coverage, and protected areas.

 International Energy Efficiency Hub: India has joined the International Energy Efficiency
Hub, a global initiative focused on improving energy efficiency worldwide, with the Bureau of
Energy Efficiency (BEE) as the implementing agency.

 Modified Ecomark Scheme: The new Ecomark rules, introduced under India's ‘LiFE’
(Lifestyle for Environment) mission, encourage the labeling of environment-friendly products to
promote sustainability.

 WAZA and Wildlife Conservation: The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums
(WAZA) suspended Delhi Zoo's membership due to concerns about the treatment of an African
elephant. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling was recognized for its
successful snow leopard conservation program.

 Living Planet Report 2024: A WWF report showing a significant decline in wildlife
populations globally, with habitat loss and food production being major drivers. The report also
emphasizes the need for stronger global commitments to halt biodiversity loss.

 Slag and Sedimentary Rock Formation: Slag from the steel industry can form sedimentary
rock through geological processes like weathering, erosion, and compaction. This transformation
highlights the environmental potential of industrial byproducts in natural processes.

Water Chestnut (Goer)

 Location: Wular Lake, Kashmir (important for local economy).

 Usage: Consumed during festivals, and dried shells used for heating in winter.
 Nutritional value: Low in calories, good source of vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
 Environmental Challenge: Declining production due to environmental changes.

Northeast Monsoon

 Timing: Occurs from October to December.

 Rainfall: Less than Southwest Monsoon but crucial for agriculture, especially in Tamil
Nadu.
 Significance: Helps replenish groundwater and supports Rabi crops.

Bushveld Igneous Complex (BIC)

 Location: South Africa, one of the largest known layered mafic intrusions.
 Economic Importance: Contains significant deposits of platinum, chromium, and
vanadium.
 Recent Discovery: Microbes found in 2-billion-year-old rock.
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Mining Dust and Carbon Capture

 Technique: Enhanced weathering, where basaltic mining dust reacts with CO₂.
 Benefits: Can sequester billions of tons of CO₂ annually and improve soil fertility.

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)

 Climate Impact: Affects global climate by redistributing heat and nutrients.

 Concerns: Potential collapse could have catastrophic effects, especially for Nordic
countries.

Geoengineering: Spraying Diamond Dust

 Concept: Diamond dust in the upper atmosphere to reflect solar radiation.

 Goal: Cool Earth by reducing solar radiation reaching the surface.
 Challenges: High costs, logistical difficulties, and lack of regulatory framework.

Global Ecosystem Atlas

 Purpose: Created to monitor ecosystems globally and help achieve biodiversity goals.
 Tools: Uses Earth observation, AI, and field data to fill gaps in current ecosystem maps.

Species in News

 Swallowtail Butterflies: Endangered due to over-exploitation of medicinal plants in

Assam.
 Honey Badger: Recently spotted in Uttarakhand, India.
 Halari Donkeys: Endangered breed from Gujarat, with fewer than 500 individuals.
 Nilgiri Tahr: Recently discovered to have colonized a new habitat in Pasumalai, Tamil
Nadu.
 Red Panda: Selected as a finalist for a prestigious conservation award.

1. India's Space Start-Up Fund:

 The Indian Union Cabinet approved a ₹1,000-crore fund to support 40 space start-ups
over five years under the IN-SPACe initiative.
 Key initiatives include the Pre-Incubation Entrepreneurship Development Program, tax
exemptions for satellite launches, world-class infrastructure in Gujarat's GIFT City, and
collaborations with AWS and ISRO for mentorship and credits.
 The fund will serve as an alternative investment under SEBI regulations and is expected
to support around 40 startups with investment amounts ranging from ₹10 crore to ₹60
crore.

2. India AI Mission:
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 India is building a scalable AI ecosystem with over 10,000 GPUs to support start-ups and
research.
 The mission includes creating AI innovation centers, developing domain-specific AI
models, promoting AI application development, and ensuring data sovereignty.
 Changes to promote more start-ups in AI include relaxed turnover requirements, reduced
computing capacity thresholds, and a mandate for local sourcing of components for cloud
services.

3. Neutrino Fog and the LUX-ZEPLIN Experiment:

 The concept of neutrino fog, which could obscure cosmic observations, is gaining
attention in dark matter research.
 Neutrinos are abundant, nearly massless, and interact weakly with matter, making them
difficult to detect. The LUX-ZEPLIN experiment is designed to search for dark matter
particles, but neutrino fog could limit detection.

4. Thermobaric Weapons:

 Thermobaric weapons, also called vacuum bombs, create high-temperature explosions

using oxygen from the air. These weapons cause immense pressure and vacuum effects,
leading to devastating destruction.
 Notably, Russia’s "Father of All Bombs" and the U.S. GBU-43/B MOAB are examples
of thermobaric bombs.

5. Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs):

 FNDs are tiny diamonds that emit light when exposed to certain wavelengths. They are
biocompatible and stable under intense light.
 FNDs have applications in bioimaging, drug delivery, quantum computing, and
photonics.

6. Charon (Pluto's Moon):

 Charon, Pluto's largest moon, has been found to contain carbon dioxide and hydrogen
peroxide gases. It has a diverse surface with mountains, plains, craters, and possibly
cryovolcanoes.
 Charon’s synchronous rotation means it always shows the same face to Pluto. NASA's
New Horizons mission provided detailed images of Charon.

7. Nobel Prizes 2024:

 Chemistry: The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to David Baker for
computational protein design and Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for protein structure
prediction using AI tools like AlphaFold.
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 Medicine: The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Victor Ambros
and Gary Ruvkun for the discovery of microRNA, which regulates gene expression and
plays a role in diseases like cancer.

John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton - 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics:

They were awarded for their foundational work in artificial neural networks (ANNs), a crucial
development in machine learning. Their discoveries have contributed significantly to AI
technologies today.

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs):

 Definition: ANNs mimic the human brain's structure and function to process
information, learning from data to make predictions and decisions.
 Components:
o Neurons: Basic units that receive, process, and output data.
o Synapses: Connections between neurons, indicating strength.
o Layers: Comprising input, hidden, and output layers.
 Applications: Image recognition, natural language processing, medical diagnosis,
autonomous vehicles, and more.

Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory:

 Location: Hanle, Ladakh, known for clear skies and dry air.
 Purpose: To study high-energy gamma rays and cosmic-ray research.
 Significance: Advances India’s role in understanding the universe’s energetic events and
collaboration with other international experiments.

X-band Radar:

 Type: Operates in the X-band (8-12 GHz) of the electromagnetic spectrum.

 Applications: Air traffic control, weather monitoring, military, and space observation.
 Advantages: High resolution and reliability in adverse weather conditions.

Biopolymers:

 Definition: Natural polymers derived from biological sources, eco-friendly and

biodegradable.
 Types:
o Proteins: Such as collagen used in medical applications.
o Polysaccharides: Like starch and cellulose.
 Applications: Biodegradable plastics, medical materials, food industry, and more.

Copper Zinc Tin Sulfide (CZTS) Nanoparticles:

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 Usage: Photocatalysis to degrade pollutants like antibiotics, with applications in water

treatment and sensor development.
 Advantages: Eco-friendly and effective in reducing environmental contamination.

Mechazilla:

 Function: A rocket-catching system developed by SpaceX, designed to catch rockets

mid-air with mechanical arms ("chopsticks").
 Significance: Aims to reduce launch costs and enhance sustainability by enabling quick
reuse of rockets.

Mechazilla

 Purpose: SpaceX's Mechazilla is designed to catch rockets mid-air, eliminating the need
for complex landing systems like legs. This will enable quicker launches, potentially
allowing multiple rockets to be reused in a single day. It aims to revolutionize spaceports,
making space missions more accessible and affordable.
 Impact on Space Missions: Mechazilla could play a crucial role in commercial space
operations and ambitious goals like Mars colonization, and it may spur further
development in the commercial space sector, encouraging more private companies to
engage in satellite deployment, space tourism, and asteroid mining.

Smart Insulin: NNC2215

 What is NNC2215: A real-time responding smart insulin that adjusts its activity based on
blood glucose levels. This helps prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) by increasing
activity at high glucose concentrations and reducing it at low concentrations.
 How it works: The insulin has a glucose-binding structure, enabling it to adjust its
activity to maintain stable blood sugar levels. It offers better glycemic control and
reduces the risk of dangerous drops in blood sugar compared to traditional insulin types.

Moonlight Programme (ESA)

 About: The European Space Agency (ESA) launched the Moonlight Programme, a lunar
communication and navigation network. It will deploy five satellites to provide
communication and navigation services between the Earth and the Moon, aiding in
coordination for lunar missions and future activities like lunar bases and resource
exploration.
 Strategic Focus: The satellites will prioritize the lunar south pole, a key area of interest.
ISRO is considering collaboration with ESA for future lunar missions, particularly
following the success of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission.

Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX)

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 Objective: SPADEX, conducted by ISRO, aims to test autonomous rendezvous and

docking technologies between two spacecraft in orbit. The experiment includes a
"Chaser" satellite that will autonomously approach a "Target" satellite for docking.
 Impact: This technology could enable future missions like in-orbit servicing of satellites,
refueling, and even the establishment of an Indian Space Station by 2035. It also
enhances international collaboration, as docking is a critical component of missions like
NASA’s Artemis and China’s Tiangong Space Station.

E. coli Outbreaks

 Health Impact: An E. coli outbreak in the U.S. led to one death and multiple
hospitalizations. In India, there were over 500 reported cases of diarrheal diseases caused
by E. coli in 2023.
 About E. coli: Most strains of this bacterium are harmless, but some can cause severe
foodborne illness, particularly the O157:H7 strain, which can lead to hemolytic uremic
syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition.
 Sources & Transmission: E. coli can spread through contaminated food (especially
undercooked beef), water, or contact with infected fecal matter. Common symptoms
include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Treatment typically involves fluid
replacement to prevent dehydration.

Culture: 200 Years of Kittur Vijayotsava

 Rani Chennamma: The 200th anniversary of the Kittur Vijayotsava was commemorated
with a stamp release at Kittur Fort. Rani Chennamma, the queen of Kittur in Karnataka, is
celebrated for her resistance against British colonization in the 1820s. She fought to
protect her adopted son’s succession, which was rejected by the British, and died in
captivity after being imprisoned.

Raja Ravi Varma

 Legacy: Raja Ravi Varma, a renowned Indian painter and the father of modern Indian art,
was remembered on his death anniversary. He fused European art techniques with Indian
storytelling, creating iconic paintings based on Hindu mythology, including works like
Damayanti Talking to a Swan and Shakuntala Looking for Dushyanta.
 Impact: Varma's lithographs made art accessible to the public, shaping the artistic tastes
of many. He was awarded the Kaiser-i-Hind Gold Medal by the British government in
1904, and his legacy lives on with a crater on Mercury named in his honor.