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Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) Syllabus: Science   Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) Poses Health Concerns in Uttar Pradesh Despite being a rare disease globally, Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) remains a significant health concern in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh, primarily due to low measles vaccination coverage.   What is Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE)? SSPE is a progressive and typically fatal brain disorder associated with measles (rubeola) infection. It usually develops several years after a person has seemingly recovered from measles. Though SSPE has been reported worldwide, it is rare in Western countries. Males are more commonly affected than females. The disease primarily impacts children and adolescents.     Causes of SSPE Normally, the measles virus does not cause brain damage. However, in some cases, an abnormal immune response or a variant form of the virus leads to severe brain inflammation. This inflammation may persist for years, causing progressive neurological damage.   Symptoms of SSPE SSPE symptoms appear in stages and progressively worsen over time. Early Symptoms: Declining school performance Forgetfulness Sudden mood swings (temper outbursts, irritability) Distractibility and hallucinations Progressive Symptoms: Sudden muscular jerks in the arms, head, or body Seizures Uncontrollable muscle movements Speech and intellectual deterioration Severe and Final Stages: Increasing muscle rigidity Difficulty in swallowing, leading to choking risks and pneumonia Blindness Abnormal blood pressure and pulse Fever in the final phase   Treatment and Prognosis High mortality rates are associated with SSPE, and there is no known cure. Treatment focuses on symptom management. Antiviral drugs and immune-boosting medications may help slow disease progression. Given the lack of a cure, the most effective strategy against SSPE remains preventing measles through vaccination. Consider the following statements regarding Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE): SSPE is a progressive brain disorder that occurs due to a previous measles infection. The disease primarily affects adults above the age of 40. SSPE is more commonly found in developing countries due to lower measles vaccination rates. It is caused by a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 4 only(c) 1, 2, and 3 only(d) 1, 3, and 4 only Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only Explanation: SSPE is a progressive and fatal brain disorder caused by a measles virus infection that usually affects children and adolescents. It is more prevalent in developing countries due to low vaccination rates. The disease is caused by a virus, not bacteria. Menhir and Megalithic Burial Sites Syllabus: History Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs Added to India’s UNESCO Tentative List   Recently, the Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs in Telangana have been included in India’s Tentative UNESCO World Heritage List, highlighting their archaeological, cultural, and astronomical significance.                                      Understanding Menhirs & Megaliths Menhirs: Menhirs are large, vertically placed standing stones, often associated with megalithic burial or ritualistic sites. Found across Europe, Africa, and Asia, they are particularly numerous in Western Europe. Their dimensions vary, and they may be tapered, squared, or uneven in form. Menhirs are frequently arranged in structured formations, including: Circles (e.g., Stonehenge, UK). Ellipses and parallel rows (e.g., Carnac Stones, France, with 2,935 menhirs). Some menhirs feature prehistoric engravings, likely linked to seasonal cycles or fertility rituals. Megaliths: Megaliths are stone monuments used for burials or commemorations.   They are classified as: Burial Megaliths: Dolmenoid cists – Box-shaped burial chambers. Cairn circles – Stone circles marking graves. Capstones – Mushroom-shaped burial chambers (mainly in Kerala). Non-Burial Megaliths: Menhirs – Memorial markers or astronomical observatories. Megalithic Culture in India Most megaliths in India date to the Iron Age (1500–500 BCE). Concentrated in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.   Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs: Archaeological & Cultural Importance   Archaeological Significance: One of South India’s largest megalithic-era burial sites, covering 80 acres.   Contains: 80+ tall menhirs (ranging from 10–14 feet high). 3,000 alignment stones, arranged in rows (spaced 20–25 feet apart), possibly linked to ancient funerary rituals.   Astronomical Significance Likely functioned as an ancient astronomical observatory, with menhir alignments corresponding to: Equinoxes – When day and night are equal. Solstices – The longest (summer) and shortest (winter) days of the year. One unique menhir with cup marks is considered the earliest depiction of a constellation in South Asia, possibly Ursa Major (Saptarshi Mandal).   Cultural & Religious Significance Some menhirs are worshipped by the local population, known as “Niluralla Thimmappa” (Thimmappa of the Standing Stones). A specific menhir is revered as Goddess Yellamma, reflecting continuing religious traditions.   Mudumal Menhirs & UNESCO Tentative List Status Telangana currently has one UNESCO World Heritage Site – Ramappa Temple (2021). In 2025, Mudumal Menhirs were added to India’s Tentative List, alongside: Kanger Valley National Park (Chhattisgarh). Ashokan Edict Sites (Multiple States). Chausath Yogini Temples (Madhya Pradesh & Odisha). Gupta Temples (Multiple States). Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas (Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh). India now has 62 sites on its Tentative UNESCO List, a prerequisite before full inscription. Consider the following statements regarding Menhirs: They are megalithic structures found only in Europe and Africa. The Carnac Stones in France represent one of the largest alignments of Menhirs. In India, Menhirs are exclusively associated with burial sites. Some Menhirs serve as astronomical markers, aligning with solstices and equinoxes. Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 4 only(c) 1, 2, and 3 only(d) 2, 3, and 4 only Answer: (b) 2 and 4 only Explanation: Menhirs are not limited to Europe and Africa; they exist in Asia, including India. The Carnac Stones in France contain one of the largest Menhir alignments. In India, not all Menhirs are used for burials; some serve as astronomical markers. Kyushu Island Syllabus: Geography Kyushu Island: Strategic & Geographical Significance Latest Developments: The Japanese government has proposed deploying long-range missiles on Kyushu Island, underscoring its increasing strategic military importance in the Indo-Pacific region.   Geographical Overview of Kyushu Island                                    Location & Borders: Kyushu is the southernmost and third-largest of Japan’s four main islands. It spans an

India’s Role in Combating Terror Financing Syllabus: IR India recently reaffirmed its commitment to combat terrorism at the 4th ‘No Money for Terror’ (NMFT) Conference, emphasizing the need for global unity in addressing the evolving challenges of terror financing. The country highlighted the increasing complexities in tracking illicit financial flows due to advancements in digital technology, making international cooperation more crucial than ever.   Challenges in Terror Financing Terror financing remains a major threat to global security, with emerging technologies complicating fund transfers. The rise of cryptocurrencies, digital wallets, and cross-border financial networks has made it increasingly difficult for law enforcement agencies to track and disrupt illicit transactions.   Strengthening Legal Frameworks To counter these challenges, India has taken significant legal measures: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967: Strengthened to enhance monitoring of financial networks linked to terrorist organizations. Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002: Expanded to include new financial instruments and improve intelligence-sharing mechanisms.   Dedicated Counter-Terrorism Units The Indian government has set up specialized units to focus on terror financing: Terror Funding and Fake Currency (TFFC) Cell: Created within the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate cases related to terror funding and counterfeit currency. Fake Indian Currency Note Co-ordination Centre (FCORD): Established to enhance intelligence-sharing among various security agencies and prevent the circulation of fake currency.   Regulatory Role of Financial Institutions India’s financial system plays a crucial role in preventing illicit financial flows: Reserve Bank of India (RBI): Oversees compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND): Develops red flag indicators for financial institutions to detect suspicious transactions.   Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Recognizing the risks associated with virtual digital assets, India has initiated: A Permanent Working Group on Terror Financing Identification, involving financial institutions, digital platform experts, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen financial surveillance.   Enhanced Surveillance Through NATGRID The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has been developed as an integrated IT platform to assist intelligence and law enforcement agencies in analyzing terror-related financial data. This has improved efficiency in tracking and disrupting terrorist networks.   India’s Active Role in International Conferences Since 2018, India has actively participated in NMFT Conferences, fostering global cooperation on intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism strategies. The 4th NMFT Conference further strengthened international partnerships, ensuring more effective law enforcement actions against terror financing. Through legal reforms, institutional mechanisms, and global engagement, India continues to play a leading role in the global fight against terror financing. With reference to India’s legal framework against terror financing, consider the following statements: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, allows the government to declare an individual as a terrorist. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, was amended to include financial transactions through digital currencies under its ambit. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is the nodal agency responsible for implementing both UAPA and PMLA. Which of the statements given above 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) 1 and 2 only  Explanation: The UAPA (Amendment) Act, 2019, empowered the government to designate individuals as terrorists (earlier, only organizations could be declared terrorist entities). The PMLA was amended to cover financial transactions using digital assets like cryptocurrencies. However, the NIA is not the nodal agency for implementing PMLA; it falls under the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Astra Missile Test Launch Syllabus: Defence   Successful Test Launch Conducted by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). Launched from Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF MK1 Location: Off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha. Marks a significant milestone in India’s self-reliance in defence technology.   Astra Missile: Key Features Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) developed by DRDO. Capable of engaging enemy aircraft beyond 100 km. Features advanced guidance and navigation systems for high-precision strikes. Integration with IAF and Navy   Already inducted into Indian Air Force (IAF). Being integrated with LCA Tejas and Indian Navy’s MiG-29. Enhances operational flexibility across different platforms. Test Launch & Performance Achieved a direct hit on a flying target.   All missile subsystems performed optimally, meeting mission objectives. First test from LCA conducted in August 2023. Collaborative Development Developed by ADA, DRDO, HAL, and other agencies. Supported by CEMILAC and DG-AQA.   Importance of BVR Missiles Enables fighter jets to neutralize enemy aircraft from a safe distance. Engages targets beyond 20 nautical miles (approx. 37 km). Provides a strategic advantage in aerial warfare.   Future Prospects Further trials planned to refine performance. Strengthens India’s indigenous defence capabilities. Praised by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat. Expected to bolster India’s air combat superiority. Consider the following statements regarding the Astra Missile: It is an air-to-surface missile developed by DRDO. It has a range of over 100 km. It is being integrated with LCA Tejas and MiG-29 fighter jets. Which of the statements given above 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 onlyExplanation: The Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), not an air-to-surface missile. It has a range of over 100 km and is being integrated with LCA Tejas and MiG-29.   Water Contamination Crisis in India Syllabus: Environment   Extent of Contamination A parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources has highlighted serious water contamination issues affecting 11,348 habitations across 96 districts in seven states. Pollutants such as iron, nitrate, and heavy metals pose significant health risks in these regions. Punjab is particularly affected by uranium contamination, with 32 habitations across nine districts While interim measures have been implemented in some areas, many affected habitations lack adequate action.   Government Response The Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase II has been extended until 2025-26 to sustain Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and improve rural waste management. Despite government initiatives, the committee noted underutilisation of funds, with only 33% of the revised budget spent in FY 2024-25.   Community Involvement The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation is transitioning from a department-driven approach to

PM’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0) Syllabus: GS2/ Governace The Ministry of Education has launched the third edition of the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0) to nurture young literary talent in India.   About the Scheme: Aims to mentor aspiring authors under the age of 30, fostering a culture of reading, writing, and publishing. Provides mentorship and publishing support to help Indian writers gain recognition on a global platform. Focuses on three key themes: Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building Indian Knowledge System Makers of Modern India (1950-2025) Aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes building a knowledge-driven ecosystem. National Book Trust (NBT), India, is responsible for implementing the scheme. With reference to the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0), consider the following statements: It is an initiative of the Ministry of Culture to promote regional literature and folk traditions. The scheme aims to train young authors under the age of 35 to foster a reading and writing culture in India. National Book Trust (NBT), India, is responsible for implementing the scheme. The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on creating a knowledge-driven ecosystem. Which of the above statements is/are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 3 and 4 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 3, and 4 only Answer: (b) 3 and 4 only Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: PM-YUVA 3.0 is launched by the Ministry of Education, not the Ministry of Culture. Statement 2 is incorrect: The scheme is designed for authors under the age of 30, not 35. Statement 3 is correct: National Book Trust (NBT), India is responsible for implementation. Statement 4 is correct: The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting a knowledge-driven ecosystem. Thalassemia Syllabus: GS2-Health/GS3-Science and Tech   Context The Andhra Pradesh government is considering increasing the monthly pension for thalassemia patients and extending financial support to those above the poverty line (APL) due to the high cost of treatment. Currently, patients below the poverty line (BPL) receive treatment under the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme.   What is Thalassemia? Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder inherited from parents, where the body fails to produce sufficient hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) responsible for carrying oxygen. Each RBC contains 240 to 300 million hemoglobin molecules, and a deficiency results in severe anemia, requiring blood transfusions every 2-3 weeks for survival.   Symptoms of Thalassemia Beyond anemia, patients may experience Weak bones Delayed or stunted growth Iron overload (from frequent transfusions) Poor appetite Enlarged spleen or live Pale skin Consider the following statements regarding Thalassemia: Thalassemia is an acquired blood disorder caused by iron deficiency. It leads to severe anemia due to the body’s inability to produce sufficient hemoglobin. Blood transfusions are required only in the early stages of the disease. Thalassemia is recognized as a benchmark disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 4 only(c) 1, 2, and 3 only(d) 2, 3, and 4 only  Answer: (b) 2 and 4 only Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Thalassemia is not an acquired disorder; it is a genetic disorder inherited from parents. Statement 2 is correct: The disorder prevents sufficient hemoglobin production, leading to severe anemia. Statement 3 is incorrect: Blood transfusions are lifelong and not limited to early stages. Patients require transfusions every 2-3 weeks. Statement 4 is correct: Thalassemia is classified as a benchmark disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Building Compassion into the Health-Care Structure Syllabus: GS-II Introduction On February 7, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a significant report titled ‘Compassion and Primary Health Care,’ emphasizing compassion as a transformative force in global health. The report highlights the necessity of integrating compassion into health-care services to enhance patient outcomes and improve provider well-being. WHO’s Director-General underscored the importance of compassion in strengthening primary care and advancing quality health services.   The Benefits of Compassionate Health Care Compassion in health care extends beyond ethical considerations, offering tangible benefits for both patients and medical professionals. For Patients: Research from Stanford University’s Centre for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) shows that compassionate care accelerates recovery and reduces hospital stays. A Johns Hopkins Hospital study found that simple gestures—such as doctors spending an additional 40 seconds reassuring patients—significantly reduce anxiety and improve healing. For Medical Professionals: Practicing compassion alleviates stress, enhances job satisfaction, and fosters stronger patient-provider relationships. Maintaining a balance between emotional involvement and professional detachment prevents burnout, allowing for sustained high-quality care.   Compassion vs. Empathy and Sympathy Compassion is often misinterpreted as empathy, sympathy, or kindness, but these concepts have distinct meanings: Sympathy: A temporary feeling of pity for someone’s suffering without deeper emotional involvement. Empathy: Feeling and internalizing another person’s pain, which can lead to emotional exhaustion in medical professionals. Compassion: A sustainable approach where health-care providers acknowledge suffering and act to alleviate it without becoming overwhelmed. By fostering compassion rather than excessive empathy, health professionals can make rational, well-informed decisions while maintaining emotional stability.   The Role of Compassion in Mental Health Care Mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, have reached alarming levels globally due to factors such as social isolation, economic uncertainty, and trauma. Unlike physical illnesses, mental health conditions are often stigmatized, discouraging individuals from seeking help. Compassion in Mental Health Treatment: Provides a safe space where patients feel understood and valued. Encourages open communication, reducing feelings of shame and self-doubt. Helps individuals adhere to treatment plans and develop long-term coping mechanisms.   Compassion in Mental Health Recovery Compassionate care is particularly vital for individuals who have endured trauma, abuse, or neglect. Survivors of war, violence, and human trafficking require not only medical intervention but also emotional support, patience, and human connection to facilitate recovery. Case Study: The Transformation of Pradeep Pradeep, a rescued child suffering from severe trauma, was abandoned

PM’s Visit to Mauritius Syllabus:IR The Prime Minister of India recently paid a state visit to Mauritius, marking his second visit since 2015. He was the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day Celebrations on March 12.   Key Highlights of the Visit Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): Agreements signed in areas such as civil service training, support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), blue economy development, combating financial crimes, and local currency settlement for trade. INR-Based Credit Line: India extended an INR 487.6 crore line of credit for replacing water pipelines in Mauritius, the first-ever INR-denominated credit line. White-Shipping Agreement: A maritime security agreement facilitating information exchange between India and Mauritius. Award Conferred: The PM received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, becoming the first Indian recipient of this prestigious award. Vision MAHASAGAR: The PM introduced the Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR) vision, expanding upon the existing Vision SAGAR   About Mauritius Location: A strategically positioned island nation in the western Indian Ocean near India. Population: Approximately 2 million people, with 70% of Indian origin, strengthening historical and cultural ties. Colonial History: Initially a French colony, later becoming a British possession before gaining independence. National Day: Celebrated on March 12, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March anniversary.   India-Mauritius Bilateral Relations Diplomatic and Economic Ties Established Relations: India and Mauritius established diplomatic ties in 1948 and have since become key partners in the Asian and Indian Ocean regions. Bilateral Trade (2022-2023): Indian Exports to Mauritius: USD 462.69 million Mauritian Exports to India: USD 91.50 million Total Trade Volume: USD 554.19 million Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): Signed in 1982 to prevent double taxation for investors and businesses. Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA): India’s first trade agreement with an African nation, signed in 2021, promoting trade and investment. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Mauritius is the second-largest source of FDI into India for FY 2023-24, following Singapore.   Defence and Strategic Cooperation Preferred Defence Partner: India supports Mauritius in acquiring defence platforms, capacity building, and conducting joint patrols in the Indian Ocean. Key Defence Agreements: First Agreement: Transfer of a Dornier aircraft and Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) on lease. Second Agreement: A USD 100 million Line of Credit (LoC) for defence procurement. Space Cooperation: An MoU signed in November 2023 for the development of a joint satellite, fostering collaboration in space research.   Historical Indian Migration to Mauritius French Rule (1700s): Indians from Puducherry arrived as artisans and masons. British Rule (1834–Early 1900s): Around half a million Indian indentured laborers were brought to Mauritius, many of whom settled permanently, shaping its culture and demographics.   Development Assistance Infrastructure Projects: India has supported Mauritius in developing the Metro Express project, hospitals, and Agaléga Island infrastructure. Humanitarian Aid: India extended cyclone relief assistance during Cyclone Chido (2023), reinforcing its role as a first responder in the region.   Strategic Significance of Mauritius for India   Maritime and Geopolitical Interests Strategic Location: Mauritius’ position in the Indian Ocean is vital for India’s maritime security and trade routes. Agaléga Island: Situated 1,100 km north of Mauritius, the island is strategically important for India’s naval operations. In 2024, India and Mauritius jointly inaugurated an airstrip and jetty projects to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Countering China’s Influence: Strengthening ties with Mauritius is crucial for India to counter China’s expanding footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Geopolitical Competition: The Indian Ocean is witnessing increasing competition from China, Europe, the Gulf nations, Russia, Iran, and Turkey.   Economic and Cultural Importance:Cultural and Diaspora Ties: With 70% of the Mauritian population tracing Indian ancestry, strong cultural and familial bonds exist between both nations. Blue Economy Partnership: Mauritius plays a critical role in India’s blue economy initiatives, particularly in fisheries, maritime resources, and offshore energy exploration. Indian Ocean Cooperation: Mauritius is an active member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), promoting regional stability and economic integration.   Challenges in India-Mauritius Relations   Economic and Trade Concerns Tax Treaty Misuse: The DTAA between India and Mauritius has faced criticism for facilitating money laundering and round-tripping of funds. Trade Imbalance: Despite strong economic ties, Mauritius has significant trade deficits with India, necessitating trade diversification.   Security and Strategic Challenges Maritime Security: As a key player in the Indo-Pacific strategy, Mauritius’ security concerns align with India’s, yet evolving regional dynamics present new challenges. Growing Chinese Influence: In 2021, China signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Mauritius, helping China expand its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Africa. This could erode India’s strategic influence in Mauritius.   Way Forward Enhanced Defence Cooperation: Strengthening joint training, counterterrorism initiatives, and maritime security collaborations to safeguard regional stability. Economic Diversification: Expanding trade relations beyond traditional areas and exploring emerging sectors for bilateral growth. People-to-People Ties: Promoting cultural exchanges, educational scholarships, and diaspora engagement to reinforce deep-rooted historical bonds. Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership: Leveraging Mauritius’ expertise in ocean resources management to drive mutual economic growth. India and Mauritius share a unique, time-tested partnership, and their evolving cooperation will play a crucial role in shaping regional security, economic integration, and strategic alliances in the Indian Ocean region. Consider the following statements regarding India-Mauritius relations: Mauritius is the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India. India and Mauritius have signed a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), which is India’s first trade agreement with an African nation. India has leased the Agaléga Islands from Mauritius for setting up a strategic naval base. The White-Shipping Agreement between India and Mauritius facilitates free trade between the two nations without tariff barriers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 2 only(d) 1, 3, and 4 only Answer: (c) 2 only Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect – While Mauritius has historically been a major source of FDI into India, Singapore overtook Mauritius as the largest FDI contributor in recent years (FY 2023-24). Therefore, this

La Nina Syllabus: Geography La Niña is a climatic phenomenon characterized by the cooling of surface ocean waters along the tropical west coast of South America. It is the opposite phase of El Niño, which is associated with unusually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific. Together, these events form the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, influencing global weather patterns. La Niña is identified when sea surface temperatures decrease by more than 0.5°C (0.9°F) for at least five consecutive three-month seasons.                 Causes of La Niña La Niña occurs due to the accumulation of cooler-than-normal waters in the tropical Pacific, a region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. This cooling is driven by unusually strong trade winds and ocean currents, which push warm surface waters westward, allowing cold, deep ocean water to rise to the surface—a process known as upwelling. This significant drop in sea-surface temperature alters global atmospheric circulation patterns.   Effects of La Niña Impact on Air Pressure and Rainfall La Niña reduces air pressure over the western Pacific, leading to increased rainfall. Southeast Asia experiences stronger summer monsoons, benefiting agriculture in regions like northwest India and Bangladesh. Risk of Flooding in Australia While La Niña enhances rainfall for agriculture in South Asia, severe events can lead to excessive precipitation and flooding in northern Australia. Global Rainfall Patterns Increased rainfall occurs in southeastern Africa and northern Brazil. Conversely, La Niña raises air pressure over the central and eastern Pacific, causing drier conditions in those regions. Drier Conditions in Certain Areas The west coast of tropical South America, the Gulf Coast of the United States, and the pampas of South America experience reduced rainfall and prolonged dry spells. Boost to the Fishing Industry The upwelling effect brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, fostering plankton growth. This supports marine ecosystems, benefiting fish populations and the fishing industry, particularly in regions like the eastern Pacific. Duration and Seasonal Trends: La Niña events typically last between one and three years, whereas El Niño events are usually shorter, lasting less than a year. Both phenomena tend to peak during the Northern Hemisphere winter, significantly influencing global weather patterns. By shaping rainfall distribution, ocean currents, and atmospheric circulation, La Niña plays a crucial role in global climate variability, impacting agriculture, economies, and ecosystems worldwide. Consider the following statements regarding La Niña: It is associated with the cooling of sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean. It leads to an increase in air pressure over the western Pacific, resulting in reduced monsoon activity in South Asia. It enhances upwelling, which benefits marine ecosystems and fisheries in the eastern Pacific. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 2 only(d) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only Explanation: Statement 1 is correct: La Niña is characterized by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific. Statement 2 is incorrect: La Niña lowers air pressure over the western Pacific, leading to stronger monsoons in South Asia, not weaker ones. Statement 3 is correct: Upwelling caused by La Niña brings nutrient-rich cold water to the surface, which boosts marine productivity and benefits fisheries. KHANJAR-XII The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR-XII is currently underway in Kyrgyzstan.First initiated in 2011, this annual exercise is conducted alternately in both countries. This year, the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade are actively participating. The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and cooperation in counter-terrorism and special operations, particularly in urban environments and high-altitude terrains. Key training areas include sniping, building intervention, and mountain warfare. Beyond military drills, the exercise fosters cultural exchanges, with participants engaging in local traditions such as Nowruz celebrations—further strengthening bilateral ties between India and Kyrgyzstan. This joint exercise is a significant step in bolstering defence collaboration, addressing regional security threats like terrorism and extremism, and promoting peace and stability in the region. Strategically, Kyrgyzstan’s location in Central Asia, particularly its shared Fergana Valley with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, underscores its geopolitical importance. The region is also rich in hydrocarbons, making it vital for India’s energy security. . Consider the following statements regarding Exercise KHANJAR-XII: It is an annual bilateral military exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan, focusing primarily on naval operations. The Indian Army’s Ghatak Platoon and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade participate in this exercise. It emphasizes counter-terrorism and special operations, particularly in urban and high-altitude terrains. The exercise was first conducted in 2011 and has been held alternately in both countries. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only(b) 3 and 4 only(c) 1, 3, and 4 only(d) 2 and 4 only Answer: (b) 3 and 4 onlyExplanation: statement 1 is incorrect: KHANJAR-XII is not a naval exercise; it focuses on special forces operations in counter-terrorism, urban warfare, and mountain combat. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), not the Ghatak Platoon, participates in this exercise. Statements 3 and 4 are correct: The exercise aims to enhance special operations capabilities and has been conducted annually since 2011. H1N1 Virus Consider the following statements regarding H1N1 (Swine Flu): H1N1 is caused by a Type B influenza virus. The first confirmed case of H1N1 in India was reported in 2009. Human-to-human transmission of H1N1 has never been reported. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: (b) 2 only Explanation: The correct option is (b) 2 only, as statement 2 is correct, while statements 1 and 3 are incorrect. Initially, H1N1 was believed to spread only from pigs to humans, but scientific studies confirmed human-to-human transmission soon after the 2009 outbreak. The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to seasonal flu. Studies and epidemiological data confirm sustained human-to-human transmission of H1N1,