GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: Researchers are exploring bacterial and microbial approaches to break down plastic waste, offering a potential solution to environmental pollution. Plastic-Degrading Bacteria and Enzymes Certain microbes can biodegrade plastics within months by enzymatically breaking them down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. For instance, PET plastic …

PRELIMS BITS Background: Astronomers have identified Gaia BH3, a massive black hole located approximately 2,000 light years away in the Aquila constellation, using the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Gaia spacecraft. Gaia Spacecraft Launched in 2013, the Gaia mission aims to map the Milky Way galaxy by observing the movements of …

GS 3 – AGRICULTURE Background: The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced a five-year initiative aimed at enhancing cotton productivity and promoting the cultivation of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton in India. Understanding ELS Cotton Origin: Derived from Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton, ELS is a high-quality cotton variety …

GS 2 – INTERNATIONAL RELATION Background: USAID, a key agency under the U.S. government, is currently undergoing scrutiny and structural changes under the Trump administration, along with reforms led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Overview and Functions of USAID Formation: Established in 1961 through an executive order …

PRELIMS BITS Context: The Union Home Ministry has instructed states to prevent the improper use of the State Emblem of India, highlighting the mandatory inclusion of the motto “Satyameva Jayate” in Devanagari script. About the State Emblem of India Adoption: The State Emblem was adopted on January 26, 1950, based …

GS 2 – INTERNATIONAL RELATION Context: The United States, under the leadership of then-President Donald Trump, issued an executive order to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing inefficiencies in handling the COVID-19 crisis and the need for structural reforms. About WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) is a …

PRELIMS BITS  Background: Santorini, a renowned Greek island, has been put on high alert following the occurrence of over 200 undersea earthquakes in just four days, with magnitudes reaching up to 4.6. Geographical Overview of Santorini Island Location: Situated in the Southern Aegean Sea, Santorini is part of the Cyclades …

PRELIMS BITS  Overview: The rusty-spotted cat, the world’s smallest cat species, was recently spotted in Purulia district, West Bengal. This marks the first documented sighting of the species in the region, captured on camera by researchers from the Human and Environment Alliance League (HEAL) during a pangolin poaching investigation. Characteristics: …