GS III-Security Context: Indian scientists have developed a nanoparticle-based security ink to enhance anti-counterfeiting measures. What is Security Printing? Used to prevent forgery in critical documents like banknotes, passports, and cheques. Features: Human-Detectable: Watermarks, holograms, optically variable ink. Machine-Detectable: RFID chips, digital watermarks, security threads. Role of Nanoparticles in Security …

Prelims Bites Context: Preprints gained popularity during COVID-19 for early research access. However, post-pandemic analysis raised concerns about their quality and credibility. What are Preprints? Definition: Scientific papers shared publicly before peer review. Purpose: Allows researchers to disseminate findings quickly without waiting for formal journal publication. Optional Peer Review: Authors …

GS II-Defense Context: India signed a deal with Russia to procure 1,000 HP engines for T-72 tanks, including Transfer of Technology (ToT). About T-72 Tanks Main Battle Tank (MBT): Developed by the Soviet Union (1970s), widely used globally. Firepower: 125mm smoothbore gun (main weapon). Coaxial machine gun & anti-aircraft gun. …

GS III-Science and Technology   Context: Scientists have developed a gene-edited banana that remains fresh and yellow for 12 hours after peeling, reducing food waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Why Do Bananas Brown? Ethylene Hormone: Triggers ripening even after harvest. Polyphenol Oxidase (PPO): Reacts with oxygen, causing browning. Bruising Effect: …

GS II-International Relations Context: Ukraine has agreed to a U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire, conditional on Russia’s acceptance. The deal could lead to a resumption of U.S. military aid and intelligence sharing. Strategic Motivations: Ukraine’s Objectives: Secure U.S. military aid & diplomatic leverage. Finalize mineral deals with the U.S. for economic stability. …

GS II-International Relations Context: The recent killing of ~300 Alawite civilians in Syria has raised concerns over sectarian violence against this minority group. Who are the Alawites? Religious Origins: A Shia Islam offshoot, emerging in the 9th-10th centuries through the teachings of Mohammad ibn Nusayr in Iraq. Beliefs & Practices: …

GS II-International Agreement Context: Lithuania withdrew from the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), citing security concerns, drawing global criticism. About the CCM: Adopted: 2008 | Came into force: 2010 Prohibits: Use, transfer, production, and stockpiling of cluster bombs. Membership: 112 state parties + 12 signatories. Non-signatories: Russia, Ukraine, India. About …

GS-II-International Relations Context: PM’s visit to Mauritius highlights India’s commitment to its historical and strategic partnership with the island nation. Indo-Mauritius Bilateral Relations Historical & Cultural Ties: Indian Diaspora: Nearly 70% of Mauritius’ population has Indian ancestry, tracing back to indentured laborers from colonial times. Stable Relations: Strong political and …

GS III-Infrastructure Context: Karnataka’s Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP), a ₹8,000 crore initiative, faces environmental concerns and corruption allegations. About the Project: Capacity: 2,000 MW pumped storage system. Reservoirs Used: Talakalale (upper) & Gerusoppa (lower). Function: Water is pumped uphill during off-peak hours and released to generate electricity. Infrastructure: …