Author: karthik

India and the European Union (EU) Syllabus:IR Context India and the European Union (EU) have resumed negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aiming to finalize a comprehensive deal in two phases. Talks, which had been stalled since 2013 due to market access issues, resumed in June 2022. Both sides have now agreed to conclude the agreement using India’s phased negotiation approach, similar to the one adopted in FTAs with Australia. The goal is to seal the deal by the end of 2025, as agreed upon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the European Commission President.   Key Areas of Focus Market Access: EU seeks tariff reductions in sectors such as automobiles, medical devices, wines, spirits, meat, and poultry. Services & Investment: Discussions include liberalization of services, investment protection, and clearer dispute resolution frameworks. Regulatory Issues: Strengthening of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), and agreements on: Sanitary & phytosanitary measures Technical barriers to trade Customs procedures Government procurement Sustainability and green transition   Expected Benefits Boost to Indian exports, especially garments, pharmaceuticals, steel, petroleum, and electrical machinery. Stronger investor confidence and bilateral cooperation. Promotion of innovation and sustainable development.   India-EU Bilateral Relations Political Ties Formal relations date back to the early 1960s. A Cooperation Agreement was signed in 1994, deepening ties beyond trade. The first India-EU Summit in 2000 was a milestone. In 2004, the partnership was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership at the 5th Summit in The Hague. Economic Ties The EU is India’s largest trading partner for goods. In 2023–24, bilateral trade in goods stood at USD 137.41 billion. 17% of India’s exports go to the EU; 9% of EU exports come to India. Other Areas of Cooperation India-EU Water Partnership (IEWP): Launched in 2016 for cooperation on water management technologies and policies. Nuclear Energy R&D: Agreement signed in 2020 for peaceful research collaboration. Trade and Technology Council (TTC): Established in 2023 to foster cooperation on trade, technology, and security.   About the European Union (EU):A political and economic union of 27 countries.   Origins: Started as the European Coal and Steel Community (1950) with six members. Became the European Economic Community (1957) under the Treaty of Rome. Officially formed as the European Union in 1993 under the Maastricht Treaty.   Purpose: To promote economic and political integration, democratic values, and human rights. Currency: 20 EU nations use the euro as their official currency. Global Role: One of the world’s most influential trade and political blocs. With reference to the India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations, consider the following statements: The negotiations were resumed in 2022 after being suspended due to disagreements over intellectual property rights. The phased approach adopted in the FTA negotiations with the EU has also been used by India in other FTAs. The EU has no existing FTAs with any Asian country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?A. 2 onlyB. 1 and 2 onlyC. 3 onlyD. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A   Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect – The negotiations were suspended in 2013 primarily due to disagreements over market access, not intellectual property rights. Statement 2 is correct – India has adopted a phased approach in FTA negotiations with countries like Australia. Statement 3 is incorrect – The EU has existing FTAs with several Asian countries including South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. India’s Relationship with Türkiye and Azerbaijan Syllabus:IR   Context: India’s diplomatic and trade relations with Türkiye and Azerbaijan are under pressure following their vocal support for Pakistan and condemnation of India’s recent counter-terror operations.   Recent Developments: On May 7, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. During this operation, Pakistan employed Turkish-origin drones in failed attacks on Indian military installations. Subsequently, India and Pakistan agreed to cease all military actions across land, air, and sea. Türkiye and Azerbaijan’s statements backing Islamabad triggered a backlash within India, leading to diplomatic and public responses.   India’s Trade Relations with Türkiye Formal ties: Bilateral trade pact signed in 1973; a Joint Commission for Economic and Technical Cooperation was formed in 1983. Exports (Apr–Feb 2024-25): USD 5.2 billion (1.5% of India’s total exports) Imports: USD 2.84 billion (0.5% of India’s total imports) Major exports to Türkiye: Mineral fuels, electrical machinery, auto components, organic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, iron and steel Major imports from Türkiye: Marbles, apples, gold, vegetables, lime, cement, mineral oil, pearls, iron and steel Trade balance: India enjoys a trade surplus     India’s Trade Relations with Azerbaijan Exports (Apr–Feb 2024-25): USD 86.07 million (0.02% of India’s total exports) Imports: USD 1.93 million (0.0002% of India’s total imports) Major exports: Tobacco, tea, cereals, chemicals, rubber, paper, ceramic products Major imports: Animal fodder, organic chemicals, essential oils, leather Oil Trade: India ranked third among importers of Azerbaijani crude oil in 2023 Trade balance: India has a surplus   People-to-People Ties Indian diaspora: ~3,000 in Türkiye (including 200 students); ~1,500 in Azerbaijan Tourism: ~3 lakh Indian tourists visited Türkiye and ~2 lakh visited Azerbaijan in 2023   Emerging Challenges Türkiye and Azerbaijan’s support for Pakistan’s narrative has led to diplomatic strain. Calls for boycotts of Turkish and Azerbaijani products and tourism have intensified in India. Tourism cancellations, suspension of promotional campaigns, and withdrawal of academic MoUs (e.g., IIT Bombay, JNU) reflect growing public and institutional backlash. Indian traders are reportedly reducing imports of Turkish goods like apples and marble in protest. India’s trade with both countries remains relatively limited in volume but carries strategic and symbolic significance amid rising geopolitical tensions. With reference to India’s bilateral relations with Türkiye and Azerbaijan in the context of recent geopolitical developments, consider the following statements: Türkiye and Azerbaijan jointly condemned India’s operation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and Türkiye-origin drones were used during the conflict. India maintains a trade surplus with both Türkiye and Azerbaijan, yet Türkiye accounts for a higher share of India’s imports than Azerbaijan. Despite strained ties, India remains among the top five destinations for crude oil

PM Modi to virtually inaugurate redeveloped Begumpet railway station Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate the redeveloped Begumpet railway station on Thursday, as part of the launch of 103 Amrit Bharat stations across the country. Alongside Begumpet, the Karimnagar and Warangal railway stations in Telangana will also be opened to the public. The Begumpet station has been transformed into a modern transit hub that celebrates Telangana’s rich heritage under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with an investment of approximately ₹26.55 crore. According to South-Central Railway (SCR) officials, the upgraded station features passenger-friendly amenities such as escalators, lifts, spacious waiting areas, modern restrooms, and dedicated facilities for differently-abled commuters. A symbolic centerpiece of the station is the Indian Roller, Telangana’s state bird. SCR Chief Public Relations Officer A Sridhar highlighted the station’s new illuminated lighting, landscaped greenery, water features, and clear signage, all designed to improve the overall travel experience. Notably, Begumpet Railway Station will be fully operated by women staff, including station masters, ticket clerks, RPF constables, and booking personnel. A dedicated surveillance system is in place to ensure enhanced safety for female passengers. Serving over 15,000 passengers daily, Begumpet is one of Hyderabad’s busiest suburban stations, ranking just after Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kacheguda stations. Which of the following statements about the Begumpet railway station redevelopment is/are correct? The station has been redeveloped with an investment exceeding ₹25 crore. It includes passenger amenities like escalators, lifts, and dedicated facilities for differently-abled passengers. Begumpet is the busiest railway station in Hyderabad. Options:A) 1 and 2 onlyB) 2 and 3 onlyC) 1 and 3 onlyD) All of the above Correct Answer: A) 1 and 2 only Explanation: Statement 1 is correct because the redevelopment of Begumpet railway station was done at an estimated cost of ₹26 crore 55 lakh, which is indeed more than ₹25 crore. Statement 2 is correct as the redevelopment includes several passenger-friendly features such as escalators, lifts, spacious waiting halls, modern toilets, and dedicated facilities for differently-abled commuters. Statement 3 is incorrect because Begumpet is one of the busiest suburban stations in Hyderabad, but it is not the busiest. The busiest stations in Hyderabad are Secunderabad, Hyderabad (main), and Kacheguda stations, which handle more passenger traffic than Begumpet. Operation Olivia Syllabus:Defence In a significant achievement for marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) annual initiative, Operation Olivia, successfully safeguarded a record 98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha during February 2025. Conducted every year from November to May, this mission aims to protect the critical nesting habitats of Olive Ridley turtles along Odisha’s coastline, including the renowned Gahirmatha Beach, which witnesses the arrival of over eight lakh turtles annually. The unprecedented mass nesting at Rushikulya underscores the effectiveness of the ICG’s continuous efforts, which encompass rigorous surface patrolling, aerial surveillance, and active engagement with local communities. Since the launch of Operation Olivia, the ICG has executed over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions, substantially mitigating threats such as illegal fishing and habitat disturbances. During this period, 366 boats engaged in unlawful fishing activities were apprehended, reinforcing the Coast Guard’s enforcement capabilities in marine wildlife protection. Beyond surveillance and enforcement, the ICG has fostered collaboration with fishing communities by encouraging the adoption of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) and formalizing partnerships with NGOs through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to advance sustainable fishing practices and conservation awareness. Which of the following is/are the primary objectives of Operation Olivia conducted by the Indian Coast Guard? Protecting the nesting grounds of Olive Ridley turtles along Odisha’s coast Promoting the use of Turtle Excluder Devices among fishing communities Encouraging mass fishing during the turtle nesting season Conducting aerial and surface patrols to prevent illegal fishing Select the correct answer using the code below:A) 1 and 3 onlyB) 1, 2 and 4 onlyC) 2 and 3 onlyD) All of the above Answer: B) 1, 2 and 4 only Explanation: Operation Olivia, led by the Indian Coast Guard, primarily focuses on protecting the nesting grounds of Olive Ridley turtles along Odisha’s coast by safeguarding key breeding sites like Rushikulya and Gahirmatha. It actively promotes the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) among fishing communities to reduce accidental turtle capture in fishing nets. Additionally, the operation conducts aerial and surface patrols to monitor and prevent illegal fishing and other activities that could disrupt turtle habitats. However, Operation Olivia does not encourage mass fishing during the turtle nesting season. In fact, it aims to reduce fishing activities during this critical period to protect the turtles, making option 3 incorrect. Hence, the correct options are 1, 2, and 4 only. Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ Syllabus:Schemes Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today held a press conference at the National Media Centre, New Delhi, to announce the launch of the nationwide “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan,” scheduled from May 29 to June 12, 2025. He emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is actively pursuing the vision of becoming a developed nation, with modern agriculture and prosperous farmers forming the foundation of this goal. Agriculture remains the backbone of the Indian economy, supporting nearly half the population and ensuring national food security. Shri Chouhan highlighted the Ministry’s primary goals: securing food for India’s 1.45 billion people, ensuring availability of nutritious food, increasing farmer incomes, and conserving natural resources for future generations. To achieve these objectives, the Ministry has devised a six-point strategy focusing on increasing production, lowering costs, ensuring fair prices, compensating for natural disaster losses, promoting crop diversification with value addition and food processing, and encouraging natural and organic farming. He shared record agricultural outputs for the year, including Kharif rice production of 1206.79 lakh metric tonnes, wheat at 1154.30 lakh metric tonnes, Kharif maize at 248.11 lakh metric tonnes, groundnut at 104.26 lakh metric tonnes, and soybean at 151.32 lakh metric tonnes. These historic highs have strengthened national food reserves and align with the vision

PMAY-U Coffee Table Book Released in Kohima to Highlight Urban Housing Progress Syllabus:Schemes   Context: The Government of Nagaland has officially unveiled a Coffee Table Book titled “Transforming Lives: A Glance of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) Mission in Nagaland”. This publication commemorates the progress and impact of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) scheme in the state, particularly in providing dignified and affordable housing to urban poor communities.   Significance of the Launch Date & Venue: May 16, 2025 | Hotel Vivor, Kohima Released by: Shri Zhaleo Rio, Advisor for Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Chaired by: Shri Kekhrievor Kevichusa, Commissioner & Secretary, MAUD   Special Features: Invocation by Rev. Dr. Kevichalie Metha Musical performance by TRUISM Vote of thanks delivered by Smt. Temjenrenla Kichu, Joint Director, Municipal Affairs Department   About the Coffee Table Book Title: Transforming Lives: A Glance of PMAY (Urban) Mission in Nagaland Purpose: To visually document success stories, policy implementation, and community transformation under PMAY-U   Content Highlights: Real-life narratives of beneficiaries Visual documentation of urban development Insights into implementation challenges and grassroots engagement   Overview of PMAY-U (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban) Launched: June 25, 2015 Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) Objective: Housing for All in urban areas by the year 2022   Key Components: In-Situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR) Credit-Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC)   Impact of PMAY-U in Nagaland Thousands of urban households have benefitted from housing assistance Strengthened the construction sector and generated employment Enhanced socio-economic inclusion through property registration in women’s names Improved access to basic amenities, leading to better quality of life for urban poor With reference to the Coffee Table Book “Transforming Lives: A Glance of PMAY (Urban) Mission in Nagaland”, consider the following statements: The book was launched by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to commemorate 75 years of India’s independence. The book contains a visual record of PMAY-U implementation challenges and beneficiary narratives in Nagaland. The event was presided over by the Governor of Nagaland and included an address by the Prime Minister. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?A) 2 onlyB) 1 and 3 onlyC) 1 and 2 onlyD) 2 and 3 only Answer:A Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. The book documents the visual and narrative impact of PMAY-U in Nagaland, including challenges and success stories. Statement 1 is incorrect as the book was released under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, not the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and it was not linked to the 75th year of independence. Statement 3 is incorrect as the event was chaired by state officials—not by the Governor or Prime Minister. Justice Bela M. Trivedi Bids Farewell to Supreme Court After Trailblazing Career Syllabus:Polity   Justice Bela M. Trivedi retired from the Supreme Court of India on May 16, 2025, after a distinguished tenure of three-and-a-half years. Her career stands out for a series of pioneering milestones, significant constitutional rulings, and a legal journey that spanned from trial courts to the apex judiciary. Justice Trivedi’s retirement marks the culmination of a historic legal journey, beginning in Gujarat’s trial courts in 1995 and culminating in transformative judgments on constitutional law, child protection, reservation policy, and economic regulation. She was the 11th woman judge in the history of the Supreme Court of India and one of the rare judges to be elevated from a trial court (appointed July 10, 1995, Ahmedabad) to the Supreme Court (August 31, 2021). She was also featured in the Limca Book of Records for being part of a father-daughter judge duo serving in the same court. Among her landmark judgments were the EWS Reservation Case (Nov 2022), where she was part of the 5-judge bench that upheld 10% reservation under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment; the Sub-classification within SCs case (Aug 2024), where she delivered a dissenting opinion against allowing states to sub-categorise Scheduled Castes; and the POCSO Act Interpretation (Nov 2021), where she overruled the controversial “skin-to-skin” verdict by emphasizing that intent and any physical contact qualify as sexual assault. In the IBC ruling, she held that a moratorium under IBC does not prevent states from attaching properties under depositor protection laws. In May 2025, she cleared the UP government’s temple corridor project for the Banke Bihari temple in Mathura. Professionally, she practiced law in the Gujarat High Court for a decade, held key administrative roles including Registrar Vigilance and Law Secretary in Gujarat, was elevated to the Gujarat High Court in 2011, transferred to the Rajasthan High Court the same year, and returned to the Gujarat High Court in 2016. She was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2021 during a historic induction of 9 judges, including 3 women. Justice Trivedi’s legal journey is emblematic of progress in gender inclusivity and judicial reform. Her judgments have significantly influenced protections for children, rights of marginalized communities, and constitutional law, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian jurisprudence. With reference to the judicial career of Justice Bela M. Trivedi, consider the following statements: She was elevated directly from a trial court to the Supreme Court without serving in any High Court. She dissented in a Supreme Court judgment allowing states to sub-categorize Scheduled Castes, arguing it violated the constitutional mandate of equality. She authored the majority opinion in the 2022 verdict upholding the 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment. In a landmark ruling under the POCSO Act, she held that absence of physical skin-to-skin contact nullifies the charge of sexual assault. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 2 onlyB) 1 and 4 onlyC) 2 and 3 onlyD) 1, 2 and 4 only  Answer: A) 2 only Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Justice Trivedi served in multiple High Courts (Gujarat, Rajasthan) before being elevated to the Supreme Court. Statement 2 is correct: She gave a dissenting opinion in the case allowing sub-categorisation within SCs, citing concerns over equality. Statement 3 is

Amit Shah Inaugurates Training Program on Legislative Drafting in New Delhi Syllabus:Governanace Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a specialized training program on legislative drafting in New Delhi, aimed at enhancing the understanding and application of legislative drafting principles among officials from Parliament, State Legislatures, ministries, statutory bodies, and other government departments.     Focus on Repealing Obsolete Laws In his address, Mr. Shah highlighted the government’s initiative to repeal nearly 2,000 obsolete laws since 2015. He described legislative drafting as not merely a science or an art, but a skill that demands precision, transparency, and clarity in execution.   Advocating Clear and Accessible Laws Stressing the importance of simplicity in legal language, Mr. Shah urged officials to draft laws that are clear, concise, and free from ambiguity. He emphasized that easily understandable laws can help minimize conflicts and ensure better implementation.   Influence on Governance and Society Shah noted that legislative drafting significantly influences how policies and regulations are interpreted and implemented, ultimately affecting both society and the state. Therefore, regular training is essential to refine the skills of legislative draftsmen.   Capacity Building through Training The program, organized by the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies (ICPS) in collaboration with the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), aims to build the capacity of government officers. Through this initiative, participants will gain valuable insights into effective legislative drafting, promoting democratic governance and upholding the rule of law. Consider the following statements regarding legislative drafting as per the given text: It plays a key role in the interpretation of policies and their societal impact. It is a static process that, once codified, requires no revision. Training programs in legislative drafting are essential for promoting democratic governance.Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A.  1 and 2 onlyB. 2 and 3 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: C Explanation: Statement 1 is correct because the text emphasizes that legislative drafting significantly affects the interpretation and implementation of policies, which in turn impacts society and the state. Statement 2 is incorrect as the passage suggests that legislative drafting is a skill that requires regular training and updating, implying it is a dynamic, not static, process. Statement 3 is correct since the training program is described as a means to build capacity for democratic governance and uphold the rule of law. UGC launches new website, UTSAH and PoP portals to promote quality education Syllabus:Governance The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled several major initiatives to strengthen the quality of higher education in India, including a revamped official website, the UTSAH (Undertaking Transformative Strategies and Actions in Higher Education) Portal, and the Professor of Practice (PoP) Portal. These initiatives mark a significant milestone in the UGC’s efforts to align with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and to promote excellence in academic institutions across the country.     Overview of the Initiatives UGC’s New Website:The upgraded UGC website is designed to be more user-friendly and informative, featuring categorized content tailored for students, faculty, and universities. It also includes a dedicated section on the National Education Policy 2020, reflecting the UGC’s long-term vision for transforming higher education in India. UTSAH Portal:The UTSAH Portal serves as a centralized platform offering detailed insights into UGC’s initiatives aimed at qualitative reforms in higher education. It covers key areas such as curriculum enhancement, faculty development, research initiatives, and student support services. Professor of Practice (PoP) Portal:In line with the NEP 2020, the PoP Portal is a groundbreaking initiative that enables institutions to engage with industry and domain experts for academic roles. Professionals from various disciplines can register on the portal, providing their credentials, expertise, and preferred modes of engagement. Universities can post advertisements for PoP roles and access a database of eligible candidates to bring practical, real-world knowledge into classrooms.     Key Features of the Initiatives UGC Website: Simplified interface with structured content for different stakeholders. UTSAH Portal: Focuses on policy-driven educational reforms across core academic areas. PoP Portal: Bridges academia and industry by facilitating expert appointments in universities.   Important Facts for Competitive Exams University Grants Commission (UGC) Founded: 1956 UGC Headquarters: New Delhi Preceding Executive: Sukhadeo Thorat These steps by the UGC are aimed at transforming higher education in India by integrating innovation, practical expertise, and policy-driven reforms.   With reference to the UTSAH (Undertaking Transformative Strategies and Actions in Higher Education) Portal, consider the following statements: It serves as a digital platform for real-time academic audits of universities across India. It aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020 to drive qualitative reforms. It primarily focuses on school-level curriculum development. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A.  1 and 2 onlyB.  2 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. 2 and 3 only Answer: B Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect because the UTSAH Portal is not designed for conducting real-time academic audits of universities. Instead, it serves as a platform to provide detailed information on UGC’s initiatives for reforms in higher education. Statement 2 is correct as the portal aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 by focusing on qualitative improvements in higher education. Statement 3 is incorrect because the portal targets higher education reforms, not school-level curriculum development. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Inaugurates National Homoeopathic Convention ‘Homeocon 2023’ in Uttarakhand Syllabus:Polity Uttarakhand Hosts ‘Homeocon 2023’: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Inaugurates National Homoeopathic Convention Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the National Homoeopathic Convention, Homeocon 2023, at Doon University, Dehradun, reaffirming the state’s commitment to promoting traditional medicine systems. The event highlighted homeopathy as the second most widely practiced system of medicine globally and underscored its relevance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.   Significance of Homeopathy Homeopathy has established itself as a globally recognized and widely accepted alternative medical system. During the COVID-19 crisis, its holistic and patient-centric approach demonstrated valuable support in health care. The convention emphasized integrating homeopathy with conventional medicine to provide cost-effective, accessible,

Cabinet approves semiconductor unit in Uttar Pradesh Syllabus:Governanace The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of a new semiconductor manufacturing unit, further advancing India’s journey towards self-reliance in the strategically vital semiconductor sector. This will be the sixth unit under the India Semiconductor Mission, with five units already in advanced stages of construction. The newly approved facility will be a joint venture between HCL and Foxconn, combining HCL’s legacy in hardware development with Foxconn’s global expertise in electronics manufacturing.   Location & Production: The plant will be set up near Jewar Airport in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) It will manufacture display driver chips for use in mobile phones, laptops, automobiles, PCs, and other display-enabled devices. Designed for a capacity of 20,000 wafers/month and an output of 36 million units/month.   Investment & Ecosystem: The project involves an investment of ₹3,700 crore. India’s semiconductor ecosystem is rapidly expanding, with global equipment giants like Applied Materials and Lam Research, and gas and chemical suppliers such as Merck, Linde, Air Liquide, and Inox establishing a presence in India.   Academic & Startup Contributions: Over 270 academic institutions and 70 startups are engaged in advanced chip design and innovation. 20 student-developed products have already been successfully taped out at SCL Mohali. As India witnesses a surge in demand for semiconductors across sectors—ranging from consumer electronics to defence—the new unit is a significant step towards realizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Consider the following statements with respect to India’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem: The India Semiconductor Mission is being implemented under the aegis of the National Policy on Electronics 2019. Applied Materials and Lam Research are key players in semiconductor design software being developed in India. Display driver chips are typically used in digital screens but not in automobiles due to electromagnetic interference issues. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 onlyB. 2 and 3 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. None Answer: A Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: Applied Materials and Lam Research are semiconductor equipment manufacturers, not design software companies. Statement 3 is incorrect: Display driver chips are used in automotive displays as well. NRFMTTI achieves CMVR testing approval for Agricultural Tractors Syllabus:Geography The Northern Region Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute (NRFMTTI), Hisar (Haryana) has achieved two major milestones: Approval as a CMVR Testing Agency for Agricultural Tractors NABL Accreditation for CMVR Testing of Agricultural Tractors and Combine Harvesters NRFMTTI, a premier institution in the field of training and testing of agricultural machinery, is now an authorized agency to carry out CMVR (Central Motor Vehicle Rules) testing for agricultural tractors, in addition to combine harvesters. The institute has also been granted NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) accreditation, further validating the quality and reliability of its CMVR testing services. This development will significantly benefit tractor manufacturers in Northern India, allowing them to conduct mandatory CMVR testing locally at NRFMTTI. Furthermore, NABL-accredited CMVR certification will improve the global credibility and acceptance of test results for agricultural tractors and combine harvesters, supporting domestic industry and exports. Which of the following statements regarding the recent accreditation and approval granted to NRFMTTI, Hisar is/are correct? It has been approved as a CMVR testing agency exclusively for Combine Harvesters. It has received NABL accreditation for CMVR testing of both agricultural tractors and Combine Harvesters. The institute is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Heavy Industries. The CMVR certification by NABL-accredited institutions is mandatory for domestic tractor sales under the Farm Mechanization Policy. Select the correct answer using the code below:A. 2 onlyB. 2 and 4 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. 1, 3 and 4 only Answer:A.2onlyExplanation: Statement 1 is incorrect — NRFMTTI is approved for both tractors and harvesters. Statement 3 is incorrect — it is under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Statement 4 is incorrect — while CMVR compliance is legally required, NABL certification enhances global acceptance but is not specifically mandated under a “Farm Mechanization Policy.” Ministry of Culture & IBC to Celebrate Vaiśākha Buddha Pūrṇimā Divas with Prayers, Dialogue, and Cultural Splendour at Dr. BR Ambedkar International Centre Syllabus:History The Ministry of Culture and International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) is set to commemorate the sacred occasion of Vaiśākha Buddha Pūrṇimā Divas—the Triple Blessed Day marking the Birth, Enlightenment, and Mahāparinirvāna of Lord Shākyamuni Buddha. The event will be held at Dr B R Ambedkar International Centre (Auditorium), Janpath, New Delhi on 15thMay 2025 (Thursday). The Guest of Honour for the event will be Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs and the Chief Guest will be Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture & Tourism. The programme will feature prayers and a thought-provoking panel discussion on the theme: ‘Application of Buddha Dhamma in Conflict Resolution’. Esteemed Buddhist scholar-monks and domain experts, including Geshe Dorji Damdul (Director, Tibet House, New Delhi), Prof. Hira Paul Gang Negi (Former HoD, Buddhist Studies, Delhi University), and Prof. Bimlendra Kumar (Professor, Pali & Buddhist Studies, BHU), will share insights on the timeless relevance of Buddha’s teachings. A special address will be delivered by the distinguished Buddhist nun, Ven. Gyaltsen Samten, and the Ratana Sutta will be rendered by renowned singer Ms. Subhadra Desai. Highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the day, two major exhibitions will be showcased:   Comparative Buddhist Art History of India Life and Teachings of the Buddha These exhibitions were part of the United Nations Vesak Day 2025 celebrations in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, held alongside the exposition of the Holy Relics of the Buddha from Sarnath across four Vietnamese cities. The event will also feature screenings of a documentary on the Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma in Asia and a film on the Exposition of the Holy Relics of the Buddha. Though the full moon of Vaiśākha falls on May 12 this year, the sanctity of the occasion leads to celebrations across the entire month. This