28th april 2025 Current Affairs

Over 160 Killed by Lightning in March-April 2025

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography

Between March and mid-April 2025, 162 people tragically lost their lives due to lightning strikes across 12 Indian states. The worst-hit region was Bihar, which recorded 99 deaths, accounting for 61% of the national total, followed by Uttar Pradesh.

What is Lightning?

Lightning is an electrical discharge that occurs between charged particles in a cloud and the ground. When the voltage in the atmosphere reaches approximately 3 million volts per meter, the air’s insulating properties break down, allowing a powerful electric current to flow. This results in a sudden burst of energy, creating a bright flash of light and a thunderous sound.

How Does Lightning Develop?

Several factors contribute to the development of lightning, including:
High humidity in regions like eastern states and coastal areas, which promotes thunderstorms.
Topographical features like the Himalayas and Western Ghats, influencing lightning frequency.
Monsoon dynamics, where moist air rises, driving thunderstorms and lightning.
Rapid urbanization and industrialization, which increase the occurrence of artificial heat sources and aerosols that enhance thunderstorms.
Climate change, which alters weather patterns and potentially increases the frequency and intensity of lightning events.
Agricultural practices, such as burning agricultural residues, which add particulates to the atmosphere and heighten the risk of thunderstorms.

Government Initiatives

To mitigate the risks posed by lightning, several government efforts have been made:
The CROPC (Climate Resilient Observing Systems Promotion Council) developed India’s first Lightning Early Warning System to predict lightning strikes and issue alerts.
The SACHET mobile app was launched to provide timely lightning hazard alerts to the public.
In 2020, the Damini Lightning App was developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) to track lightning strikes and raise awareness.

Moving Forward

To reduce lightning fatalities, it is crucial to:
Strengthen communication systems so that warnings reach vulnerable populations efficiently.
Train local authorities to act swiftly based on early warnings.
Increase public awareness about lightning safety, especially during the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons.
Improve ground-level implementation of NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) protocols to minimize the impact and save lives.
With these measures in place, we hope to reduce the devastating impact of lightning and protect more lives in the future.

Consider the following factors contributing to the increased frequency of lightning strikes in India:

High humidity in coastal areas and eastern states.
The orographic effect caused by the Himalayas and Western Ghats.
Increased aerosol concentration due to urbanization and industrialization.
The effect of global warming on atmospheric convection and storm dynamics.

Which of the factors listed above is/are most directly responsible for the increased frequency and intensity of lightning strikes in India?

a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2, 3, and 4 only
c) 1, 2, and 3 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Explanation:
All the factors listed contribute significantly to the increased frequency of lightning strikes.
High humidity in coastal and eastern regions promotes thunderstorms, which often result in lightning.
Orographic lifting in regions like the Himalayas and Western Ghats leads to intense storm formations and lightning.
Urbanization and industrialization increase the concentration of aerosols in the atmosphere, enhancing cloud formation and intensifying lightning events.
Climate change alters temperature and moisture dynamics, further driving more intense lightning occurrences.

World Bank: India’s Extreme Poverty Drops to 2.3%

Syllabus :GS 3/Economy

According to the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs), India has made remarkable strides in reducing extreme poverty, with the proportion of people living in extreme poverty dropping from 16% in 2011–12 to just 2.3% in 2022–23. This substantial reduction represents a major milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat poverty.

About the Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs)

The Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs) are biannual reports published by the World Bank. These reports provide a snapshot of trends in poverty, inequality, and shared prosperity across over 100 developing countries. The PEBs are released during the Spring and Annual Meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Their goal is to keep the issue of poverty reduction central to global policy discussions.

Key Indicators and Measurement

The PEBs track several important indicators to assess poverty and inequality:
Poverty rates based on both national and international poverty lines (e.g., $2.15/day in 2017 PPP terms, $3.65 for lower-middle-income countries, and $6.85 for upper-middle-income countries).
The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which considers deprivations in areas such as education, basic services, and nutrition in addition to income poverty.
Inequality is measured using the Gini Index, a tool that gauges income or consumption inequality in a population.

India’s Recent Poverty Trends (2022–23)

India has witnessed a sharp decline in extreme poverty, with significant reductions across both rural and urban areas:
Extreme poverty, measured at $2.15 per day (PPP), fell from 16% in 2011–12 to 3% in 2022–23, lifting 171 million people above the poverty line.
Rural areas saw a drop in extreme poverty from 4% to 2.8%, while urban areas experienced a decline from 10.7% to 1.1%, significantly narrowing the rural-urban poverty gap.
When measured against the $3.65/day threshold for lower-middle-income countries, poverty declined from 8% to 28.1%, with an additional 378 million people moving above this line.

The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which includes factors such as education and basic services, showed a significant decrease in non-monetary poverty, dropping from 53.8% in 2005–06 to 15.5% in 2022–23.

Regional Distribution of Poverty

India’s most populous states—Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh—continue to account for a large portion of the country’s poverty:
These five states accounted for 54% of India’s extreme poor in 2022–23, and 51% of the multidimensionally poor in 2019–21.
Despite making significant strides, these states still represent a key focus area for poverty alleviation efforts, although they have also driven much of India’s poverty reduction, contributing to two-thirds of the overall decline.

Inequality and Employment Challenges

Despite the remarkable reduction in poverty, inequality remains a pressing issue in India:
Wage inequality is high, with the top 10% of earners making 13 times more than the bottom 10%.
The Gini Index, which measures consumption inequality, improved from 8 to 25.5, indicating a reduction in consumption inequality, but income inequality rose sharply, with the Gini for income increasing from 52 to 62.
India also faces challenges in the youth labor market:
Youth unemployment stands at 3%, and graduate unemployment is significantly higher at 29%. The majority of employment remains in the informal sector, particularly in agriculture.
Female employment remains low at 31%, with a 234 million gap compared to male employment. However, employment rates have been rising since the 2021–22 fiscal year.

Conclusion

While India has made significant progress in reducing both monetary and multidimensional poverty, challenges persist.
The growing inequality, particularly in income, and issues such as youth unemployment and gender disparities in employment require continued focus.
The progress made in poverty reduction is encouraging, but sustained efforts are necessary to ensure that the benefits of growth reach all sections of society, particularly those in the most vulnerable regions and

Consider the following statements regarding India’s poverty reduction as per the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs):

India’s extreme poverty rate dropped from 16% in 2011–12 to 2.3% in 2022–23.
The decline in poverty was equally distributed between rural and urban areas, with both showing identical reductions in extreme poverty.
The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which includes factors like education and access to basic services, showed a steady decrease in non-monetary poverty from 2005–06 to 2022–23.
The five most populous states—Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh—accounted for 54% of the country’s extreme poor in 2022–23.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 3, and 4 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – Extreme poverty has decreased from 16% in 2011–12 to 2.3% in 2022–23, marking significant progress.
Statement 2: Incorrect – The decline in extreme poverty was not equally distributed. Rural areas saw a drop from 18.4% to 2.8%, while urban areas saw a decrease from 10.7% to 1.1%, showing a significant rural-urban gap.
Statement 3: Correct – The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) showed a steady decline in non-monetary poverty from 53.8% in 2005–06 to 15.5% in 2022–23.
Statement 4: Correct – Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh accounted for 54% of India’s extreme poor in 2022–23, and they had contributed to two-thirds of the overall decline in poverty.

Overseas Remittances by Indians under LRS were Down 29%

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

In February 2025, overseas remittances by Indian residents under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) experienced a significant drop of 29%, falling to $1,964.21 million from $2,768.89 million in January.

The Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)

The Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), introduced under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999, governs the outward remittance from India. The scheme allows resident individuals, including minors, to freely remit up to $2,50,000 per financial year for a variety of current and capital account transactions, such as:
Education expenses abroad
Medical treatment
Purchase of property
Investments in foreign stocks and bonds
Additionally, the Union Budget of February 2025 increased the threshold for Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on LRS transactions from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh. This change is expected to provide a boost to sectors like travel, foreign exchange, tourism, education, and aviation, as it would benefit individuals undertaking transactions in these areas.

Reasons Behind the Decline in Overseas Remittances

The 29% drop in remittances in February 2025 can be attributed to several factors:
Decline in Indian Students Going Abroad: There was a sharp 25% decline in the number of Indian students receiving study permits for top destination countries like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom in 2024. This reduction has significantly impacted remittances, as educational expenses abroad constitute a large portion of LRS transactions.
Postponed or Canceled Travel Plans: The volatile movements in global economies and markets during the period led many individuals to reconsider or postpone their travel plans, affecting outbound remittances.

What Are Remittances?

Remittances refer to funds transferred by individuals to their family or friends in another country. These transfers are most commonly made by individuals working abroad, often in blue-collar or skilled jobs, to support their families back home.
Impact of Remittances
Remittances play a crucial role in the economies of many countries by:
Providing financial support to families
Contributing to economic stability
Supporting local businesses and communities
Helping finance national trade deficits

Types of Remittances

There are two main types of remittances based on the purpose of the transaction:
Inward Remittance: Transfer of funds into a country, either from another country or within the same country.
Outward Remittance: Transfer of funds out of the country, typically for education, medical treatment, or investments abroad.

India’s Remittances Overview

India has seen remarkable growth in remittances over the years, with the total amount more than doubling from $55.6 billion in 2010-11 to $118.7 billion in 2023-24.
Key Contributors to India’s Remittances
S. and U.K.: Remittances from the U.S. and U.K. have nearly doubled, now contributing 40% of the total inward remittances in FY24, up from 26% in FY17. The U.S. emerged as the largest source of remittances, contributing 28% in FY24, up from 23.4% in FY21.
UAE: The UAE remains the second-largest contributor to India’s remittances, accounting for 2% in FY24. Indian migrants in the UAE, especially in blue-collar jobs such as construction, healthcare, hospitality, and tourism, play a major role in this inflow.
Singapore: Singapore’s share of remittances has risen to 6% in FY24, up from 5.5% in FY17, marking the highest share for the country in recent years.

State-wise Distribution of Remittances

The distribution of remittances across Indian states highlights the concentration of remittance inflows in specific regions:
Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu together accounted for half of the total remittances received in India.
States like Haryana, Gujarat, and Punjab had smaller shares, each contributing below 5% of the total remittances.

Size of Remittances

The distribution of remittances also varies based on the transaction amount:
6% of remittances were over ₹5 lakh, reflecting a higher volume of large transfers.
Meanwhile, 6% of remittances were ₹16,500 or less, indicating the prevalence of smaller transfers from Indian workers abroad.

Conclusion

The decline in overseas remittances in February 2025 under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme reflects a combination of global economic challenges, reduced student mobility, and postponed travel plans. Despite this temporary setback, India continues to receive substantial remittances, which play a vital role in the nation’s economy, particularly in providing financial support to families and communities. The increase in the TCS threshold and the growing role of countries like the U.S., UAE, and Singapore in remittance inflows indicates ongoing opportunities for growth in this sector.

Consider the following statements regarding the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

The LRS allows resident individuals, including minors, to remit up to $2,50,000 per financial year for permissible transactions like education, medical treatment, and investments abroad.
The Union Budget of February 2025 raised the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) threshold for LRS transactions from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, benefiting the travel and tourism sectors.
Under LRS, only Indian citizens are eligible for outward remittance, excluding non-resident Indians (NRIs).
The LRS is governed by the Reserve Bank of India under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1, 2, and 4 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – The LRS allows individuals, including minors, to remit up to $2,50,000 per year for permitted transactions.
Statement 2: Correct – The TCS threshold for LRS transactions was raised from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh in the 2025 Budget to benefit sectors like tourism, education, and aviation.
Statement 3: Incorrect – Non-resident Indians (NRIs) are not excluded from the LRS; the scheme is for all resident individuals, including NRIs.
Statement 4: Correct – The scheme is governed by the RBI under FEMA, 1999.

Medical Tourism in India

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

India has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for treatment and medical tourism, according to the Minister of State for AYUSH.
About Medical Tourism:
Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to another country or region for medical treatment, procedures, or health-related services. India has become a prominent hub in the medical tourism industry, valued at approximately $9 billion. The country attracts international patients seeking advanced treatments in fields such as cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and organ transplants.
In 2023, medical tourism in India witnessed a growth of around 33%, with approximately 6 lakh international patients. Key cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad are prominent destinations for medical tourism due to their world-class healthcare infrastructure.
Factors Driving the Growth of Medical Tourism in India:
Cost-Effective Treatment: India offers medical procedures at a fraction of the cost compared to countries like the US or Europe, making it an attractive option for international patients.
High-Quality Healthcare: The country boasts internationally accredited hospitals and highly skilled medical professionals.
Availability of Advanced Medical Technology: Indian hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology, particularly in cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
Shorter Wait Times: Compared to some Western healthcare systems, medical tourists in India can access timely treatments without long waiting periods.
Government Support and Policies: The Indian government has implemented policies to facilitate medical tourism, such as medical visa provisions and promotional activities for the sector.

Significance for India:

Economic Growth: Medical tourism contributes significantly to India’s economy by generating revenue from international patients and stimulating related industries such as hospitality and transportation.
Improved Healthcare Infrastructure: To cater to medical tourists, hospitals are investing in modern facilities, which simultaneously improve the quality of healthcare for local patients.
Promotion of India’s Global Image: India’s rise as a medical tourism destination enhances its international reputation, attracting foreign investment and partnerships in the healthcare sector.
Technological Advancements: The demand for advanced treatments drives innovation and the adoption of new medical technologies within Indian healthcare.
Skill Development: Exposure to international patients and standards fosters skill development for healthcare professionals.
Diplomatic Ties: The influx of medical tourists from various countries promotes cultural exchange and fosters goodwill, strengthening diplomatic relations.
Challenges:
Competition: India faces stiff competition from other medical tourism destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.
Lack of Insurance Coverage: Many medical procedures in India are not covered by insurance, reducing the appeal of medical value travel (MVT).
Unregulated MVT Sector: The MVT industry lacks comprehensive regulation, leaving the sector disorganized with potential exploitation of medical travelers by unprofessional agents.
Limited Promotion: While individual hospitals engage in promotional activities, there is no cohesive national campaign to establish India as a top global destination for medical value travel.
Accreditation Awareness: Though India has a strong accreditation system like the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), international patients often prioritize Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, which is more recognized globally.
Way Ahead:
Rising Demand for Wellness: As modern lifestyles increase the demand for wellness and alternative cures, India has a unique opportunity to attract medical tourists for treatments in AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) and wellness therapies.
Government Support: Increased government facilitation, regulation, and marketing are essential to establish India as a leading medical value travel destination.
Promotion of AYUSH: India’s investment in AYUSH places it in a strong position to cater to medical value travelers seeking holistic and alternative cures.

Consider the following statements regarding Medical Tourism in India:

India’s medical tourism sector is valued at approximately $9 billion, with an annual growth rate of 33%.
India’s healthcare infrastructure is concentrated primarily in tier-2 cities, such as Patna, Bhopal, and Nagpur.
Medical tourism in India is primarily driven by the country’s cost-effective treatment options, with procedures available at a fraction of the cost compared to the US and Europe.
The Indian government has implemented policies such as medical visa provisions and promotional activities to boost the medical tourism sector.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1, 3, and 4 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 only

Answer: (a) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct: India’s medical tourism sector is indeed valued at approximately $9 billion, and it experienced a growth of about 33% in 2023, attracting around 6.6 lakh international patients. This makes India one of the leading destinations in the global medical tourism market.
Statement 2: Incorrect: India’s key cities for medical tourism are Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. These cities are home to advanced healthcare infrastructure and internationally accredited hospitals. Tier-2 cities like Patna, Bhopal, and Nagpur are not primarily noted for their medical tourism appeal.
Statement 3: Correct: One of the major driving factors behind the growth of medical tourism in India is the cost-effectiveness of medical procedures. Compared to countries like the US and Europe, the costs of treatments in India are significantly lower, which attracts international patients seeking affordable yet high-quality healthcare.
Statement 4: Correct:The Indian government has implemented various policies, including the facilitation of medical visas and promotional activities, to promote medical tourism. These efforts aim to attract more international patients and boost India’s position as a leading global destination for medical value travel (MVT).

Agricultural Land Contaminated by Toxic Heavy Metal Pollution

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment

A recent study has highlighted the significant impact of soil pollution from toxic heavy metals and metalloids on crop yields and food safety globally.

Key Highlights:

The research reveals that 14% to 17% of the world’s agricultural soils (about 242 million hectares) exceed safe limits for at least one hazardous metal.
This contamination affects between 900 million and 1.4 billion people living in high-risk areas.
A heavily polluted region has been identified across low-latitude Eurasia, covering southern Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and southern China.
Common contaminants include cadmium, arsenic, cobalt, nickel, and chromium.

Causes of Heavy Metal Accumulation:

Anthropogenic Causes: Mining, smelting, industrial activities, and intensive agriculture (especially the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides).

Natural Causes: Metal-rich bedrock and low rainfall in some areas that facilitate the accumulation of pollutants.

Impact of Metal Contamination:

Food Chain Contamination: Crops grown in polluted soils absorb heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, lead, and mercury, which then enter the human body through food consumption.

Bioaccumulation: Continuous ingestion of low doses of these metals leads to bioaccumulation, causing chronic health issues, including neurological and developmental disorders.

Biodiversity Loss: Toxic metals harm vital soil organisms like earthworms, insects, and microbes, reducing biodiversity both in the soil and above ground.

Land Degradation: Persistent pollution can make soils barren, contributing to land degradation and desertification.

Concerns:

Data Gaps: Limited data from regions like sub-Saharan Africa, northern Russia, and parts of central India may indicate that the contamination is even more widespread.

Food Trade Risks: Global food trade can inadvertently spread contamination from high-risk regions to low-risk ones, posing a threat to global food security.

Rising Demand for Metals: Increasing industrial demand for metals may worsen the contamination problem without urgent mitigation actions.

Government Initiatives for Soil Conservation:

Soil Health Card Scheme: Provides farmers with reports on soil nutrient status to encourage balanced fertilizer use and improve productivity.

Promotion of Organic Farming: Programs like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) promote organic farming practices to maintain soil health.

National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Focuses on improving soil health through integrated farming systems and agroforestry.

Global Initiatives:

Global Soil Partnership (GSP): A FAO-led initiative aimed at improving global soil governance and promoting sustainable soil management.

United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD): Works to prevent land degradation and promotes sustainable land management practices globally. The UNCCD has set a goal of land degradation neutrality (LDN) by 2030.

4 per 1000 Initiative: Aims to increase soil carbon stocks by 0.4% annually to fight climate change and enhance soil health.

Way Forward:

Soil Health Observatories: Establish regional soil health observatories and expand soil survey coverage.

Phytoremediation: Use hyperaccumulator plants and microbes to clean up contaminated soils.

Circular Economy: Promote the recycling and management of e-waste and industrial waste to prevent further soil contamination.

Farmer Awareness Programs: Educate farmers about the risks of heavy metal contamination, safe agricultural practices, and alternative cropping systems.

Consider the following statements regarding soil pollution caused by toxic heavy metals and metalloids:

A significant proportion of the world’s agricultural soils, between 14% and 17%, exceed safe thresholds for at least one hazardous metal, affecting approximately 900 million to 1.4 billion people.
The primary anthropogenic causes of heavy metal accumulation in soils are mining, smelting, and the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture.
Bioaccumulation due to heavy metal ingestion only affects agricultural workers, not the general population.
The region identified as the most heavily contaminated by toxic metals includes sub-Saharan Africa, northern Russia, and central India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1 only

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – Studies indicate that 14-17% of global agricultural soils exceed safe limits for hazardous metals, affecting a significant global population.
Statement 2: Correct – Anthropogenic activities such as mining, industrial processes, and fertilizer overuse are primary causes of soil metal contamination.
Statement 3: Incorrect – Bioaccumulation from heavy metals affects both agricultural workers and the general population through contaminated food chains.
Statement 4: Incorrect – The most heavily polluted region identified does not include sub-Saharan Africa or northern Russia; it primarily affects regions like southern Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, and southern China.

DRDO’s Breakthrough: India Advances Hypersonic Propulsion

Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology; Defence

The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), a unit of DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation), has successfully conducted a ground test of an Active-Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor for over 1000 seconds. This milestone is a crucial step in advancing India’s hypersonic weapon technology.

About Hypersonic Propulsion Technology:

Hypersonic propulsion technology is at the forefront of aerospace engineering, enabling vehicles to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound). This technology is primarily used in hypersonic cruise missiles and advanced aerospace systems.

Key Features of Hypersonic Propulsion Technology:

Air-Breathing Engines: Hypersonic vehicles use Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) engines that rely on atmospheric oxygen for combustion, rather than carrying onboard oxidizers. This makes them more efficient for sustained high-speed flight.
Scramjet Engine: A Scramjet is an air-breathing engine that efficiently operates at hypersonic speeds by allowing supersonic combustion of incoming air.
Key Difference from Ramjet: In a Ramjet, the air slows down to subsonic speeds before combustion. In contrast, in a Scramjet, the air remains supersonic throughout the combustion process, enabling higher speeds.
Working Principle: Scramjets use the vehicle’s forward motion to compress incoming air, eliminating the need for rotating compressors.
India became the fourth country, after the USA, Russia, and China, to demonstrate flight testing of a Scramjet engine.

Significance of the Scramjet Engine Test:

Validation of Long-Duration Supersonic Combustion: The successful test validates the design and efficiency of the scramjet combustor, ensuring that it can sustain high-speed flight capabilities for extended periods.
Incremental Advancements: The test follows a successful 120-second test conducted earlier in January, showcasing incremental progress toward more advanced hypersonic technology.
Strengthening India’s Hypersonic Missile Program: Scramjet engines facilitate air-breathing propulsion, which reduces reliance on onboard oxidizers and significantly enhances the missile’s range and performance.
Paving the Way for Full-Scale Flight Testing: The success of this test is a critical step toward the full-scale flight testing of hypersonic cruise missiles, strengthening India’s position in the global hypersonic missile race.

Consider the following statements regarding Hypersonic Propulsion Technology and the recent developments in India’s DRDO research:

DRDL (Defence Research and Development Laboratory) recently conducted a successful ground test of an Active-Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor for over 1000 seconds, marking a key milestone for India’s hypersonic weapon program.
Hypersonic propulsion technology primarily uses air-breathing engines such as Scramjets, which rely on onboard oxidizers to achieve sustained high-speed flight.
A Scramjet engine is more efficient than a traditional Ramjet engine because it allows supersonic combustion of air, unlike Ramjets that slow the incoming air to subsonic speeds before combustion.
With the successful test, India became the fifth country after the USA, Russia, China, and Japan to demonstrate flight testing of a Scramjet engine.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1 and 2 only

Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct – DRDL successfully tested an Active-Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor, marking an important step for hypersonic weapon technology in India.
Statement 2 is incorrect – Scramjet engines do not use onboard oxidizers; they rely on atmospheric oxygen for combustion.
Statement 3 is correct – In Scramjets, air remains supersonic throughout combustion, unlike Ramjets, which slow down the air to subsonic speeds before combustion.
Statement 4 is incorrect – India became the fourth country to demonstrate a Scramjet engine after the USA, Russia, and China, not the fifth.

National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination campaign 2025-26

Syllabus: GS2/ Health

The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025-26, aiming to eliminate measles and rubella from India.

Measles:

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection, primarily affecting children. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets from the nose, mouth, or throat of infected individuals. Symptoms usually develop 10–12 days after exposure and include:
High fever
Runny nose
Bloodshot eyes
Tiny white spots inside the mouth

Rubella:

Rubella, also known as German measles, is an acute, typically mild viral infection affecting children and young adults worldwide. Symptoms include:
Low-grade fever
Sore throat
A rash that begins on the face and spreads

Indian Scenario:

India is focused on maintaining over 95% vaccination coverage with two doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine in each district.
In 2024, there was a significant reduction in cases of measles and rubella. Measles cases dropped by 73%, while rubella cases declined by 17% compared to 2023.

U-WIN Digital Platform:

The U-WIN Digital Platform has been launched to streamline vaccination services by providing online registration, appointment scheduling, and digital certificates to enhance the vaccination process.

Consider the following statements regarding the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign launched by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare:

The campaign aims to eliminate measles and rubella by 2025-26 with a focus on maintaining over 95% vaccination coverage across all districts.
Measles is a viral disease that affects primarily adults, with symptoms appearing 10–12 days post-infection, including fever and rashes.
Rubella is a mild viral disease primarily affecting young adults, and it is also known as German measles. It causes low-grade fever and a rash starting from the face.
The U-WIN Digital Platform was introduced to streamline vaccination services by offering online registration, appointment booking, and digital certification.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1, 3, and 4 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – The National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign focuses on achieving over 95% vaccination coverage with two doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine in all districts to eliminate measles and rubella by 2025-26.
Statement 2: Incorrect – Measles primarily affects children, not adults. Symptoms usually appear 10–12 days after infection, including fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth.
Statement 3: Correct – Rubella is indeed a mild disease, primarily affecting children and young adults, and is commonly referred to as German measles. The symptoms include a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash starting on the face.
Statement 4: Correct – The U-WIN Digital Platform has been launched to streamline vaccination services by enabling online registration, appointment scheduling, and issuing digital certificates for vaccinations.

Bihar’s Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana

Syllabus GS2/Governance

The Bihar Cabinet, chaired by the Chief Minister, has approved a subsidy of ₹15,995 crore under the Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana for the financial year 2025-26. This allocation is ₹652 crore more than the subsidy granted in the previous year.

Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana: Introduced in Bihar, this scheme aims to provide significant electricity subsidies to ease the financial burden on consumers and promote fair access to power throughout the state.

The subsidy is designed to reduce the per-unit cost of electricity for consumers, and will be directly provided to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) through the Reserve Bank of India.

The subsidy will be reflected in consumers’ monthly energy bills, covering the period from April 2025 to March 2026. This move is intended to offset the impact of rising electricity tariff rates.

Did You Know? The Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA) in October 2017, with the goal of achieving universal household electrification.

This initiative provides electricity connections to all willing un-electrified households in rural areas and to poor households in urban areas across the country.

Consider the following statements regarding the Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana:

The scheme provides subsidies directly to consumers through the Reserve Bank of India to reduce their electricity bills.
The subsidy aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers by lowering per-unit electricity costs and is allocated for the period from April 2025 to March 2026.
The subsidy under the scheme is specifically aimed at reducing the electricity tariffs for commercial consumers in Bihar.
The Bihar Government has allocated ₹15,995 crore for the scheme in 2025-26, which is an increase of ₹652 crore from the previous year’s budget.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 2, and 4 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – The subsidy is provided through the Reserve Bank of India directly to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), which helps reduce the per-unit cost for consumers.
Statement 2: Correct – The subsidy will indeed be for the period from April 2025 to March 2026, aimed at reducing the per-unit electricity costs.
Statement 3: Incorrect – The scheme primarily targets domestic consumers, not commercial consumers.
Statement 4: Correct – The Bihar government has allocated ₹15,995 crore, which is an increase of ₹652 crore over the previous year’s allocation.

Line of Control (LoC)

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

The Indian Army recently reported incidents of small arms firing along the Line of Control (LoC) at several locations in Jammu and Kashmir, including Kupwara in the Kashmir Valley.

About the LoC:

The Line of Control (LoC) serves as the military boundary between Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) and the Indian-administered regions of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Established following the 1972 Simla Agreement, the LoC is a military line that was agreed upon bilaterally but is not recognized as an official international border.
The current LoC has its origins in the first Ceasefire Line (CFL), which was drawn after the India-Pakistan war of 1947-48. A UN-brokered ceasefire was declared in 1949, and the subsequent 1949 Karachi Agreement formalized the points that defined the de facto boundary between the two countries in Jammu and Kashmir.

Consider the following statements regarding the Line of Control (LoC):

The LoC came into being after the 1972 Simla Agreement between India and Pakistan.
The LoC is a legally recognized international border between India and Pakistan.
The 1949 Karachi Agreement demarcated the de facto boundary between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.
The current LoC originates from the first Cease-Fire Line (CFL) established after the 1947 India-Pakistan war.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1, 3, and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1, 3, and 2 only

Answer: (a) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – The LoC was formalized following the 1972 Simla Agreement between India and Pakistan.
Statement 2: Incorrect – The LoC is not a legally recognized international border but a military line agreed bilaterally between India and Pakistan.
Statement 3: Correct – The 1949 Karachi Agreement between India and Pakistan defined the de facto boundary in Jammu and Kashmir after a UN-brokered ceasefire.
Statement 4: Correct – The current LoC originates from the Ceasefire Line (CFL) established after the 1947 India-Pakistan war.