GS3 – Science & Technology Context The Indian Army has successfully tested the Rudrastra, a domestically developed vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone designed for precision strike missions. About Rudrastra UAV Type: A hybrid VTOL Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) combining rotary-wing lift with fixed-wing flight, allowing both vertical take-off and …

Prelims Bits Context A newly identified species of jumping spider has been discovered in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) and parts of Karnataka, named Habrocestum swaminathani to honour Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, renowned as the architect of India’s Green Revolution. This is the first time the genus Habrocestum has been recorded …

Prelims Bits Context: Following the recent plane crash in Ahmedabad, concerns have been raised about the autonomy and efficiency of aviation accident investigations in India. About AAIB Established: 2012 Parent Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation Headquarters: New Delhi Background: Prior to AAIB’s creation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: The first half of 2025 has seen a series of weather anomalies across India, highlighting the deepening impacts of climate change on urban environments, marked by abnormal temperatures, erratic rainfall, elevated humidity, and increasing urban fragility. Rising Humidity: Key Drivers Warming Oceans: Elevated sea surface …

GS 3 – AGRICULTURE Context: Despite sustained efforts by the Punjab government to shift away from paddy, the state continues to witness high acreage under paddy cultivation during the kharif season. Current Scenario: Dominance of Paddy in Punjab In the ongoing kharif season, around 35–36 lakh hectares have been allocated …

GS 2 – International Relations Context: The ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel are intensifying, though the immediate economic impact on India remains moderate. However, short-term fluctuations in oil prices and trade dynamics are possible. Military Operations Involved: Israel – Operation Rising Lion: Conducted aerial and drone-based strikes targeting Iranian …