PRELIMS BITS:  Microsoft launched the Majorana 1, the world’s first quantum chip powered by topological superconductors: Technology: Built with indium arsenide (semiconductor) and aluminum (superconductor) to form a “topoconductor.” Uses a superconducting nanowire to detect Majorana fermions—particles theorized in the 1930s that are their own antiparticles. Advantages: Requires fewer qubits …

GS1 GEOGRAPHY:  Introduction Context: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has filed lawsuits against Apple’s subsidiaries in France and Belgium, alleging the use of conflict minerals sourced from sub-Saharan Africa. Focus: This highlights the global challenge of conflict minerals and their role in fueling violence and exploitation. What Are Conflict …

GS1 ART AND CULTURE:  Introduction Context: Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister recently claimed that the Iron Age in India originated in Tamil Nadu around 5,300 years ago (3300 BCE), supported by new archaeological evidence from sites like Mayiladumparai. Debate: This challenges the traditional view that the Iron Age began later in …

GS3 ECONOMY:  The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) analyzed public spending quality using a Quality of Public Expenditure (QPE) index, factoring in capital outlay, revenue spending, and development expenditure: Six Phases Since 1991: 1991–95 (Post-Liberalization): Fiscal consolidation cut capital and developmental spending. 1996–2003 (Pre-FRBM): Rising debt and stagnant public investment. …

GS1 SOCIETY:  A Lancet study, based on the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, reveals key insights: Global Context: Worldwide, one person dies by suicide every 43 seconds. India’s Trend: The suicide death rate dropped from 18.9 per lakh population in 1990 to 13 per …

GS2 GOVERNANCE:  The Mullaperiyar Dam has remained a contentious issue between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. On February 19, 2025, the Supreme Court directed a supervisory committee to address Tamil Nadu’s concerns regarding the dam’s maintenance. This committee, constituted by the Centre, is led by the National Dam Safety Authority. Mullaperiyar …

GS2 GOVERNANCE:  The Teesta River, a crucial waterway for both India and Bangladesh, has once again become a source of diplomatic tensions. Bangladesh’s decision to seek China’s assistance for the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP) has raised concerns in New Delhi about Beijing’s expanding influence in South …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT: Recent studies highlight the severe impact of marine heat waves (MHWs) on marine mammals in Arctic and Subarctic regions. Rising ocean temperatures are increasing mortality rates, reducing reproductive success, and making these animals more vulnerable to diseases. The Arctic Ocean is expected to become a major hotspot for …