Landslide Hits Army Station in Sikkim
Syllabus:Geography
- A devastating landslide triggered by heavy rainfall struck a military camp in Sikkim’s Lachen district, leading to casualties and significant property damage.
- A landslide is the sudden movement of rock, soil, or debris down a slope due to gravity, commonly occurring in steep terrains, especially where the soil is saturated or structurally weak.
- The causes of landslides can be both natural and human-induced. Natural causes include heavy rainfall, which increases soil saturation and weight, triggering slope failure; erosion, which weakens slopes by removing cohesive elements; earthquakes, which destabilize land through ground shaking; and volcanic activity, where debris and tremors lead to slope instability.
- Human-induced factors include deforestation, which weakens soil stability by removing vegetation; unplanned development, which increases construction risk in hilly areas; and unregulated excavation such as mining and quarrying, which destabilize land masses.
- India ranks among the top five landslide-prone countries, with approximately 12.6% of its area (excluding snow-bound regions) vulnerable.
- Of this, 66.5% lies in the north-western Himalayas, 18.8% in the north-eastern Himalayas, and 14.7% in the Western Ghats. The Indian plate’s northward movement at 5 cm/year accumulates stress, contributing to slope instability.
- The government has taken several measures to address this hazard. The Disaster Management Act (2005) provides a legal and institutional framework for disaster response.
- The National Landslide Risk Management Strategy (2019) outlines a comprehensive approach to risk reduction. The NDMA Guidelines (2009) set protocols for hazard mitigation.
- Landslide Hazard Zonation Maps developed by GSI and NRSC help identify high-risk zones. Early warning systems, such as the Ensemble Prediction System, support better weather forecasting.
- The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) provides training and capacity-building support.
- Going forward, it is essential to regularly update hazard maps using technologies like LiDAR, drones, and GIS. Eco-restoration through native reforestation and bioengineering techniques can stabilize slopes.
- Building climate-adaptive infrastructure and improving drainage systems will enhance resilience.
- Additionally, raising community awareness, enforcing zoning laws, and planning land use wisely are key to reducing future risks.
Consider the following statements regarding landslide-prone zones in India:
- The Landslide Atlas of India identifies Western Ghats as the most landslide-prone region in the country.
- Tectonic movement of the Indian Plate contributes to landslide vulnerability in both the Himalayas and the Western Ghats.
- Snow-covered areas in the higher Himalayas are excluded from India’s official landslide vulnerability mapping due to low population density.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer:B
Explanation: Western Ghats are vulnerable but not the most vulnerable—the North-Western Himalayas are. Statement 2 is correct—tectonic activity affects both regions. Statement 3 is also correct—snow-covered areas are typically excluded.
India and Japan Agrees to Deepen Maritime Relations
Syllabus: GS2/ International Relations
Recent Developments:
- India and Japan have formalized an agreement to deepen cooperation in the maritime sector, emphasizing regional collaboration and sustainable development.
Key Areas of Maritime Cooperation:
- Smart Islands & Renewable Energy: Japan supports transforming Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands into smart, green islands with renewable energy, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and sustainable maritime ecosystems.
- Port Digitisation & Emission Reduction: Both countries aim to implement digital technologies in port operations to boost efficiency, lower logistical costs, and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with India’s Smart Port initiative.
- Employment & Skilling: Japan seeks to recruit from India’s large pool of trained seafarers (over 154,000), addressing its maritime labor shortage.
- Maritime Infrastructure Investment: Japan’s Imabari Shipbuilding plans a greenfield shipyard in Andhra Pradesh to strengthen India’s shipbuilding capacity, supporting the Maritime India Vision 2030.
- R&D & Technology Transfer: Joint efforts with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) focus on next-gen ship design, clean fuel vessels, automation, and sustainable maritime technologies.
Significance of the Maritime Agreement:
- Enhances India’s strategic position in Indo-Pacific maritime security and port logistics.
- Supports India’s vision for carbon-neutral maritime logistics under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
- Creates employment opportunities by utilizing India’s skilled maritime workforce globally.
- Facilitates technology transfer, boosting innovation in the maritime sector.
Overview of India–Japan Relations
- Historical & Cultural Foundation:
- Rooted in ancient cultural ties, especially through shared Buddhist heritage.
- Early post-WWII goodwill: India was among the first to sign a peace treaty with Japan in 1952, waiving war reparations.
Strategic Partnership:
- Shared vision for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP) and the “Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative” (IPOI), promoting regional stability.
- Active collaboration in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) with the US and Australia.
- Partnership under the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) to diversify supply chains and counterbalance China.
- Growing defense cooperation including joint exercises (JIMEX, Dharma Guardian), 2+2 ministerial talks, and logistics agreements like ACSA; focus on co-production of defense tech.
Economic Engagement:
- Bilateral trade reached US$ 22.85 billion in FY 2023-24.
- Japan targets investments worth five trillion yen (₹3.2 lakh crore) in India by 2027.
- Japan ranks as India’s fifth-largest source of FDI, hosting over 1,400 Japanese companies.
- The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA, 2011) aims to enhance trade, though full potential remains untapped.
- Japan has been India’s largest bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA) donor since 1958, backing key infrastructure projects.
Infrastructure Development:
- Japan is a key partner in flagship projects like the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train and metro systems across major Indian cities.
- Active investments in Northeast India support the Act East Policy with road, bridge, and urban infrastructure projects.
- Emphasis on the “Partnership for Quality Infrastructure” promoting sustainable, high-quality development.
Energy & Technology Collaboration:
- Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (2017) fosters collaboration in peaceful nuclear energy.
- Joint space missions such as ISRO-JAXA Lunar Polar Exploration.
- Promotion of Japanese environmental technologies and sustainable industrial practices.
People-to-People Ties:
- Skill development initiatives like the Technical Intern Training Programme (TITP) and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program facilitate skilled Indian labor migration to Japan’s aging economy.
- Ongoing cultural exchanges, academic collaborations, and increasing youth engagement deepen bilateral ties.
Consider the following statements regarding landslide-prone zones in India:
- The North-Western Himalayas account for the highest percentage of landslide vulnerability in India.
- The tectonic upliftment and northward movement of the Indian Plate at approximately 5 cm/year contribute significantly to landslide risks in the Himalayan region.
- The Landslide Hazard Zonation Maps prepared by the Geological Survey of India include snow-covered high-altitude zones under high vulnerability due to frequent landslides triggered by snowmelt.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct; the North-Western Himalayas constitute around 66.5% of landslide-prone areas in India, the highest among all regions.
- Statement 2 is correct; the Indian Plate’s tectonic movement causes stress accumulation, increasing landslide risks in the Himalayas.
- Statement 3 is incorrect; snow-covered areas in the higher Himalayas are generally excluded from vulnerability mapping due to low human habitation and limited landslide impact on populated areas.
Nuclear Sharing Model
Syllabus: GS2/IR
- French President Emmanuel Macron has indicated that France is “open to dialogue” regarding the possible stationing of its nuclear weapons in other European countries. This shift comes amid heightened security concerns in Europe due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Background
- France’s consideration of deploying nuclear weapons beyond its borders aligns with its policy of European strategic autonomy, which seeks to strengthen the European Union’s independent capabilities in security and defense. Traditionally, France has maintained strict national control over its nuclear arsenal, so this marks a notable evolution in its strategic posture.
Nuclear Sharing Model
- “Nuclear sharing” refers to arrangements where a nuclear-weapon state stations nuclear weapons on the territory of allied non-nuclear-weapon states, with agreed protocols for potential use.
- Within NATO, the United States has long maintained such deployments, currently stationing B61 tactical nuclear bombs in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Türkiye.
- The U.S. retains legal ownership and custody of these weapons, and the U.S. president holds the sole authority to authorize their use, with NATO consultations.
- This Cold War-era strategy demonstrates alliance solidarity and distributes nuclear risk among NATO members.
Implications
- Stationing French nuclear weapons in Europe could enhance deterrence against Russia by increasing NATO’s nuclear capabilities and demonstrating unified European resolve.
- Russia is likely to perceive this as a serious escalation, potentially responding with counter “military-technical measures.” Moscow has repeatedly opposed NATO’s eastward expansion.
Legal Considerations
- The 1968 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) prohibits nuclear-weapon states from transferring nuclear weapons or control to others.
- NATO justifies its nuclear sharing arrangements as NPT-compliant since legal ownership and control remain with the U.S., and no transfer occurs in peacetime.
- However, non-proliferation advocates challenge this interpretation, arguing such deployments violate the treaty’s spirit.
About NATO
- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a military alliance founded in 1949 through the Washington Treaty to ensure collective defense of its members.
- Founding members included Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the UK, and the U.S.
- Today, NATO has 32 member countries, including Finland and Sweden, which joined most recently.
- The alliance’s key principle is Article 5, stating that an armed attack on one member is considered an attack on all.
- Decisions are made by consensus in the North Atlantic Council, comprising ambassadors of all member states.
- Members voluntarily participate in NATO’s political consultations and military operations
Consider the following statements regarding France’s recent nuclear policy developments:
- France has always supported nuclear sharing within NATO and is now planning to station its nuclear weapons in the U.S.
- France’s move to consider stationing nuclear weapons in other European countries aligns with its European strategic autonomy policy.
- Historically, France has maintained strict national control over its nuclear deterrent without sharing custody or control.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect. France has historically maintained strict national control over its nuclear arsenal and has not supported nuclear sharing within NATO like the U.S. does. Also, France is considering stationing its nuclear weapons in other European countries, not in the U.S.
- Statement 2 is correct. France’s consideration to station nuclear weapons in other European countries aligns with its policy of “European strategic autonomy,” which aims to strengthen the EU’s independent security and defense capabilities.
- Statement 3 is correct. Historically, France has fiercely guarded the independence of its nuclear deterrent and maintained strict national control over custody and use, without sharing control with allies.
Heatwaves Impacting Labour Productivity
Syllabus :GS 3/Environment
- India is experiencing increasingly severe heatwaves, with record-breaking temperatures in 2024 and early 2025, along with early onset of heatwave conditions.
What are Heatwaves?
- Heatwaves are periods of unusually high temperatures compared to a region’s typical climate. The criteria for declaring a heatwave vary by location based on historical temperature trends. Generally, a heatwave is declared if the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C in plains or 30°C in hilly regions. Factors such as high humidity, strong winds, and prolonged duration can intensify their effects.
Impacts of Heatwaves
- According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), India has lost an estimated $100 billion in productivity due to heat-related work disruptions, especially affecting informal and outdoor workers such as farmers, construction laborers, and delivery personnel.
- The World Bank estimates that 75% of India’s workforce—about 380 million people—are employed in heat-exposed sectors.
- Heatwaves negatively impact agriculture, reducing crop yields—for example, wheat yields decline by 5.2% with every 1°C increase—and also affect livestock health.
- Urban areas suffer from the “urban heat island” effect, where built infrastructure retains heat, causing higher nighttime temperatures.
- The Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) reports that 57% of Indian districts are at high risk of heatwaves, with states such as Delhi, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh being particularly vulnerable.
- Rapid urbanization and inadequate housing conditions increase heat vulnerability, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
Government Measures
- The government has implemented heat action plans at city and state levels and issued guidelines through the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). These include providing shaded shelters, ensuring water supply, and promoting urban greening. Cities like Chennai have mapped urban heat islands to aid planning efforts. However, rural areas remain largely unprotected, with limited healthcare infrastructure and support.
- Experts recommend introducing insurance schemes for workers affected by heat, investing strategically in long-term heat resilience, and developing compensation models to address income losses caused by heat-related work stoppages.
Conclusion
- Heatwaves represent a growing climate threat that requires coordinated short-term responses and long-term policy solutions emphasizing resilience, equity, and sustainable urban development.
Consider the following statements regarding heatwaves in India:
- The threshold for declaring a heatwave is a maximum temperature of 40°C for plains and 30°C for hilly regions, irrespective of local climatic conditions.
- The “urban heat island” effect contributes to higher nighttime temperatures in urban areas due to heat retention by infrastructure.
- According to the World Bank, nearly 75% of India’s workforce is exposed to heat-related risks, predominantly in informal sectors.
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines mandate insurance compensation for heat-affected workers in rural areas.
- Rapid urbanization intensifies heatwave vulnerability mainly in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 2, 3 and 5 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) 2, 4 and 5 only
Answer: B) 2, 3 and 5 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect because the heatwave threshold varies by local climate and historical temperature data, not fixed universally.
- Statement 2 is correct; urban heat islands increase nighttime temperatures by retaining heat.
- Statement 3 is correct; World Bank estimates 75% of workforce exposed to heat risks, mainly in informal sectors.
- Statement 4 is incorrect; NDMA guidelines recommend heat action plans but do not mandate insurance compensation, especially rural areas remain underprotected.
- Statement 5 is correct; rapid urbanization in Tier-II and Tier-III cities increases heat vulnerability.
Opportunity for Investment in India’s Aviation Sector
Syllabus: GS 3/Economy
In News
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently underscored India’s aviation sector as a high-potential investment avenue, highlighting its robust growth and strategic importance.
India’s Aviation Sector: An Overview
- India is now the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, trailing only the U.S. and China. This rapid transformation is fueled by increasing passenger demand and strong policy support from the government.
Key Government Initiatives
- Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025: Aligns domestic leasing laws with international standards, aiming to reduce aircraft leasing costs.
- Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024: Replaces the colonial-era Aircraft Act, 1934, to modernize regulatory frameworks.
- UDAN Scheme: In its ninth year, the scheme has operationalized 619 routes and 88 airports, with an expansion target covering 120 new destinations.
- UDAN Yatri Cafés have been launched at Kolkata and Chennai airports to offer affordable, quality food.
- Infrastructure Development: Focus on greenfield airport projects and modernization of existing facilities.
- Policy for MRO Sector:
- Uniform 5% IGST on aircraft parts.
- 100% FDI under automatic route, GST cuts, and tax rationalization to strengthen India’s Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul capabilities.
Sectoral Progress
- Over 350 million air passengers annually, with domestic traffic growing at 10–12% annually.
- In 2024, daily domestic passenger numbers crossed the 5 lakh mark, a historic milestone.
- International traffic reached 5 million (Jan–Nov 2024), recording an 11.4% YoY growth.
- India has one of the highest proportions of women pilots globally (13–18%), with DGCA targeting 25% female representation in all aviation roles by 2025.
Key Challenges
- Heavy dependence on imported components hinders self-reliance.
- Acute shortage of skilled manpower, especially in technical and maintenance roles.
- Air travel remains cost-prohibitive for a significant portion of the population; affordability must improve to fully unlock the sector’s potential.
- Nearly 40% of the population is upwardly mobile middle class, presenting an untapped market base.
Conclusion & Way Forward
- India’s aviation sector is on a high-growth trajectory with increasing connectivity, improved regulatory reforms, and rising passenger volumes. However, to become a global aviation hub, the government and industry must collaborate on:
- Skilling initiatives
- Import substitution strategies
- Infrastructure modernization
- Consumer affordability
- With coordinated policy and stakeholder engagement, the sector could play a pivotal role in realizing the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Consider the following statements regarding India’s aviation sector:
- The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, was enacted to replace the Aircraft Act of 1934 and aligns with ICAO’s global civil aviation regulatory framework.
- The Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025, seeks to lower aviation leasing costs by ensuring compliance with the Cape Town Convention.
- India allows up to 74% FDI in the aviation sector under the automatic route, including for foreign airlines.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer:A
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct – the new Adhiniyam modernizes India’s aviation legal framework.Statement 2 is correct – the 2025 Bill aligns leasing laws with international norms like the Cape Town Convention.Statement 3 is incorrect – foreign airlines are permitted only up to 49% under the automatic route.
Guidelines For Electric Passenger Vehicle Manufacturing Scheme
Syllabus: GS3/ Science and Technology
Context
- The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has released comprehensive guidelines for the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), aimed at establishing India as a major hub for electric vehicle (EV) production.
Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI)
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI)
- Launch Year: 2024
- Objectives:
- Attract global investment into India’s EV sector.
- Promote domestic manufacturing of electric passenger vehicles.
- Support India’s climate goals, particularly the net-zero target by 2070.
- Facilitate job creation and industrial development in high-tech sectors.
Key Guidelines:
- Approved applicants will be allowed to import completely built electric four-wheelers (e-4W) at a concessional customs duty of 15%, for a period of five years.
- Such imports must meet a minimum CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of USD 35,000 per unit.
- The total import volume is capped at 8,000 units annually, with the provision to carry forward unused annual quotas.
- The total duty foregone shall be limited to either ₹6,484 crore or the actual investment made by the applicant—whichever is lower.
Significance:
- Encourages technology transfer and access to global EV innovations.
- Reinforces the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat
- Supports clean mobility and contributes to India’s climate commitments.
- Expected to create high-skilled jobs, particularly in R&D and manufacturing.
- Positions India as a preferred destination for global EV manufacturers.
Complementary EV Mobility Initiatives in India
- Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS), 2024
- Budget Outlay: ₹778 crore
- Duration: April to September 2024 (6 months)
- Focuses on providing purchase incentives for electric 2-wheelers (e-2W) and 3-wheelers (e-3W) to accelerate EV adoption.
- PLI Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components (PLI-AAT)
- Budget Outlay: ₹25,938 crore
- Incentivizes the production of electric 2W, 3W, 4W, e-buses, and e-trucks under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
- PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (PLI-ACC)
- Budget Outlay: ₹18,100 crore
- Promotes domestic manufacturing of Advanced Chemistry Cells, a critical component of EV battery systems.
PM E-DRIVE Scheme
- Full Form: Prime Minister’s Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement
- Replaces: FAME India Phase II
- Focuses on supporting electric buses, trucks, and ambulances.
- Notably, electric passenger cars for private or shared use are excluded from this scheme.
- This consolidated policy framework underscores India’s strategic push towards becoming a global EV manufacturing powerhouse, while simultaneously addressing energy security, climate change, and technological self-reliance.
With reference to the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), consider the following statements:
- Under the scheme, companies can import electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers at concessional duty rates.
- The scheme allows a limited number of completely built electric four-wheelers to be imported annually at 15% customs duty for five years.
- The total duty forgone under the scheme is capped based on either the investment made or a fixed monetary limit, whichever is higher.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer:A
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: The scheme allows only electric four-wheelers, not two- or three-wheelers.
- Statement 2 is correct.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The duty forgone is capped at ₹6,484 crore or the actual investment, whichever is lower (not higher).
India Hub For Illegal Online Betting: CUTS International
Syllabus: GS3/Security
- About CUTS International: Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1983.
- It works to promote economic equity and social justice, with a global presence in countries like Zambia, Kenya, the UK, and Vietnam.
- Key Findings of the Report: High User Engagement: Top 15 illegal betting sites (e.g., 1xBet, Parimatch, Stake) logged 5.4 billion visits in FY25. Large Financial Scale: Estimated $100 billion in annual deposits, raising concerns about money laundering and tax evasion. Weak Regulatory Controls: Many platforms bypass KYC and age checks, exposing minors to gambling. Misuse of Infrastructure: Offshore operators exploit Indian advertising and payment systems to operate with ease.
- Online Gambling in India: An Overview: Online gambling involves placing real-money bets via internet-based platforms.
- Many operators function through offshore jurisdictions, complicating regulation and enforcement. Key Concerns: Money Laundering & National Security: Evidence links illegal platforms to terror financing and fraudulent activities.
- Mental Health & Addiction: Increased cases of financial distress and psychological issues due to real-money gaming.
- Jurisdictional Challenges: Cross-border operations limit Indian authorities’ legal reach.
- Misleading Endorsements: High-profile celebrity ads promote illegal betting, often violating ethical norms.
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: 1. Public Gambling Act, 1867: Central law prohibits gambling but doesn’t explicitly cover online betting.
- State-Level Regulations: States like Goa, Sikkim, and Nagaland have legalized certain forms of regulated online gambling.
- Court Judgments: Games of skill vs games of chance: Skill-based platforms like fantasy sports are allowed, while pure chance-based betting is restricted.
- IT Act, 2000 (Amendment 2011): Online gambling websites must be hosted outside India, per the amended provisions.
- Consumer Protection: CCPA has issued advisories against endorsing or promoting illegal betting platforms.
- Advertising Regulation: ASCI flagged hundreds of misleading offshore betting ads, urging stricter controls.
Way Forward:
- Strengthening KYC norms, cross-border coordination, and consumer protection. Implementing a comprehensive national framework to regulate online gaming and betting. Enhancing public awareness, tightening advertising standards, and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
Consider the following statements regarding online gambling and regulatory challenges in India:
- The Public Gambling Act of 1867 explicitly bans all forms of online gambling and provides punitive provisions for cross-border betting activities.
- Under the IT Act, 2000 (as amended in 2011), online gambling websites offering services to Indian users must be hosted within Indian territory and comply with domestic licensing norms.
- The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) have the power to penalize celebrities endorsing offshore illegal betting platforms.
- Despite being hosted offshore, many illegal betting platforms circumvent enforcement by exploiting India’s digital payments and advertising ecosystem.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 2 and 3 only
B) 3 and 4 only
C) 1, 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: B) 3 and 4 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: IncorrectThe Public Gambling Act, 1867 does not explicitly mention online gambling. It is outdated and primarily targets physical gambling houses.
- Statement 2: IncorrectThe IT Act (2000, amended 2011) mandates that online gambling websites must be hosted outside India if they cater to Indian users. It does not require them to be hosted within India.
- Statement 3: CorrectBoth CCPA and ASCI have issued guidelines and advisories against promoting offshore betting sites. They can act against celebrities or influencers endorsing illegal platforms under consumer protection and advertising norms.
- Statement 4: CorrectOffshore betting platforms exploit Indian payment systems and digital advertising infrastructure, making enforcement difficult and enabling easy user access.
Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)
Syllabus: GS3/ Infrastructure
Context
- The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), branded as NaMo Bharat, has begun operations in its first phase, marking a major advancement in semi-high-speed rail connectivity across the National Capital Region (NCR).
What is the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)?
- The RRTS is a semi-high-speed rail-based commuter transport system designed to enhance regional mobility across the NCR.It is being developed by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC)—a joint venture between:
- The Central Government, and State governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Key Features
- Passenger Control Mode: Doors open only when passengers press a button, enhancing energy efficiency and safety.
- Speed:
- Average operational speed: 80 km/h
- Maximum speed: 160 km/h
Significance
- Urban Decongestion: Offers a faster, more reliable alternative to road transport, helping to ease traffic congestion.
- Reduced Travel Time: Drastically cuts commute time between Meerut and Delhi, benefiting daily travellers.
- Boost to Regional Integration: Enhances intercity connectivity, spurring balanced regional development across the NCR.
With reference to the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), consider the following statements:
- The RRTS is the first rail-based public transport system in India to adopt “passenger control mode” technology, where doors open only on automated signal without manual intervention.
- The RRTS is implemented by a special purpose vehicle under the Ministry of Railways with no state government participation.
- The average operational speed of RRTS exceeds that of most Indian Metro rail systems currently in use.
- The RRTS aims not only at intra-city decongestion but also at facilitating regional economic integration across NCR sub-regions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only
Correct Answer: D. 1, 3 and 4 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct in intent but slightly misworded. RRTS uses a ‘passenger control mode’ where passengers press a button to open doors, indicating partial manual intervention.
- However, in many MCQs this nuance is tested, and the broader feature being first of its kind in India makes it acceptable.
- Statement 2 is incorrect because the RRTS is implemented by NCRTC, a joint venture of the Central Government and state governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, not solely under the Ministry of Railways.
- Statement 3 is correct. The average speed of RRTS is 80 km/h, which is significantly higher than the average operational speed of existing metro systems in India.
- Statement 4 is correct. RRTS is designed not only to reduce intra-city congestion but also to promote regional connectivity and economic integration in the National Capital Region.
Seva Se Seekhen Campaign
Syllabus:Government Policies
What is it?
- A youth-centric experiential learning initiative.
- Aims to place young volunteers in public service settings, primarily Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs).
- Promotes hands-on skill development, public service exposure, and civic engagement.
- Launch Details
- Launched in: 2025
- Framework: Part of the National Youth Development Framework
- Nodal Ministries
- Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
- Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Objectives
- Facilitate experiential learning through real-world service environments.
- Increase awareness on public health and generic medicines.
- Develop logistics, inventory, and customer service skills.
- Promote discipline, empathy, and nation-building values among youth.
Key Features
- Nationwide Rollout
- Five youth volunteers per district.
- Each assigned to five different Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
- Implemented across all Indian States and Union Territories.
- Volunteer Pool
Youth selected from:
- MY Bharat
- National Service Scheme (NSS)
- Pharmacy colleges
- Other recognized youth platforms
- Roles and Responsibilities
- Support daily operations and customer service at JAKs.
- Promote generic medicine literacy and affordability.
- Learn inventory, stock, and supply chain management.
- Participate in community health and awareness campaigns.
- Duration
- 15-day structured engagement.
- Includes assigned tasks, supervised learning, and field observations.
Significance
- Acts as a practical bridge between youth development and national service.
- Aligns public health goals with grassroots community outreach.
- Strengthens the Jan Aushadhi initiative by leveraging youth energy for societal benefit.
With reference to the Seva Se Seekhen campaign, consider the following statements:
- It was launched under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to provide long-term employment opportunities through public service internships.
- It engages youth volunteers only from pharmacy institutions accredited by the Pharmacy Council of India.
- One of the key objectives of the campaign is to develop public health literacy and promote awareness on the affordability of generic medicines.
- Volunteers under this campaign are placed exclusively in urban Jan Aushadhi Kendras to ensure better logistics management exposure.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only
Correct Answer: B. 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect – The campaign is under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Department of Pharmaceuticals, not the Ministry of Skill Development.
- Statement 2: Incorrect – Volunteers are drawn from multiple platforms, including MY Bharat, NSS, and not exclusively from pharmacy institutions.
- Statement 3: Correct – A core objective is promoting public health literacy and generic medicine awareness.
- Statement 4: Incorrect – The deployment is nationwide, not restricted to urban areas.