GS3

GS3 – Disaster Management A flood is the overflow of water onto normally dry land, typically due to excessive rainfall, river overflow, dam breakage, or storm surges. Floods are among the most frequent and damaging natural disasters. Types of Floods Type Description Riverine Floods Caused by the overflow of rivers …

GS3 – Infrastructure Context The Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas has highlighted the untapped hydrocarbon potential of the Andaman Basin, comparing it to Guyana’s offshore oil reserves in the Atlantic, which have become a major energy source for South America. Hydrocarbon Prospects in the Andaman Basin Regional Context: …

GS3 – Environment Context Recent studies (IE | TH) have found microplastics in critical regions of the human cardiovascular system—such as the pericardium, myocardium, and major arteries—suggesting their infiltration into deep tissues. These particles contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, and atherosclerosis, potentially causing heart attacks and strokes. What Are Microplastics? …

GS3 – Indian Economy Context Findings from CAMS 2022–23 (NSSO) reveal that although India leads in real-time digital transactions, a vast section of users lack the skills to perform basic digital financial operations, exposing a significant gap in digital financial literacy. Digital Divide: Key Gaps Access vs. Ability India processes …

GS3 – Environment   Context The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which came into force in 1975 as the world’s first legally binding agreement aimed at regulating international wildlife trade. What is CITES? CITES …

GS3 – Science & Technology Context: With the intensifying global tech race, quantum technology is becoming central to digital, economic, and national security. India must go beyond investments to build strategic global partnerships and remain competitive. Importance of Quantum Technology Massive Market Potential: The global quantum tech market is expected …

GS3 – Environment Context Sudden jellyfish blooms have been observed in Kerala’s Cochin backwaters, raising ecological and economic concerns. What is a Jellyfish Bloom? A dense aggregation of jellyfish triggered by environmental changes, typically during April–May and October–December across Indian coasts. Species Reported: Acromitus flagellatus, Blackfordia virginica, Pleurobrachia sp., Pelagia …

GS3 – Infrastructure & Economy Context India has launched its first specialized maritime Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) to finance the blue economy under the Sagarmala initiative. About SMFCL Transformation: Formed by restructuring the Sagarmala Development Company Ltd (SDCL). Legal Status: Registered with RBI under the Companies Act, 2013. Administrative Control: …

GS III – Environment Context Rajasthan has proposed redrawing the Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, potentially benefiting over 50 mines in the region. About Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH): Legal Basis: Defined under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, post its 2006 amendment. Purpose: Ensures an inviolate area …

GS3 – Environment Context: ERW is emerging as a viable method for carbon sequestration by spreading crushed rock over agricultural lands to accelerate natural weathering. Mechanism of ERW: Carbon Capture Process: CO₂ from air or soil dissolves in rainwater, forming carbonic acid. This reacts with rocks, breaking down minerals and …

GS3 – Agriculture Context: Erratic monsoons and increasing wildlife intrusions are severely impacting farm incomes. An integrated and timely response is necessary to safeguard farmer livelihoods. Major Challenges Crop Damage from Nature and Wildlife: Monsoon Irregularities: Unpredictable rainfall patterns have reduced sowing (e.g., 2018 Kharif sowing declined by 9.7%). Wildlife …

GS3 – Agriculture Context: As India and the U.S. move towards finalising a bilateral trade agreement, significant apprehensions have emerged within India’s sugar and oilseed sectors. The U.S. seeks expanded market access for its corn, ethanol, and soyabean, raising fears of negative impacts on domestic agro-industries. Concerns over Ethanol Imports …

GS3 – Indian Economy Context: As India steps into its third term of economic governance, trade policy has become a key priority. While multiple bilateral trade agreements (BTAs) are being pursued, a critical missing element is a clear and coherent China strategy. India’s Trade Push: Opportunities and Gaps Suboptimal Growth …

GS3 – Science & Technology Context Researchers at IIT Bombay have developed an innovative solar-powered thermal battery that captures and stores solar heat in summer for use during the cold Himalayan winters. What is a Solar-Powered Thermal Battery? A device that stores solar thermal energy chemically for long durations and …

GS3 – Agriculture Context India is increasingly relying on imports of pulses and vegetable oils, even as domestic farmers struggle with low returns for crops like soybean and moong. This dual trend endangers both self-reliance and the long-term sustainability of India’s agri-economy. Alarming Rise in Imports Pulses Imports (2024–25): 7.3 …

GS3 – Environment Context: The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released its “State of the Climate in Asia 2024” report, offering crucial insights into key climate trends and challenges in the region. About the Report Prepared by: WMO, with inputs from: National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) UN agencies Objective: To …

GS3 – Science & Technology Context INS Nilgiri, the first stealth frigate under the indigenously developed Project 17A, has been commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. Key Features of INS Nilgiri Type: Multi-role, multi-mission stealth frigate Designed for: Blue-water operations (deep-sea naval missions) Combat Capabilities: Anti-surface …

GS3 – Indian Economy India’s economy is facing increasing external pressures due to rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, tariff uncertainties, and disruptions in global supply chains. Global Challenges: Key Concerns for India Trade Uncertainty Escalation of trade wars and tariff changes, especially involving the U.S. (India’s top export destination). Sectors …

GS3 – Indian Economy Context: The U.S. Senate has recently passed the GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins), providing regulatory clarity and momentum for the growth of stablecoins in the digital financial space. What are Stablecoins? Definition: Stablecoins are a category of cryptocurrency designed to maintain …

GS3 – Agriculture Context The Rice Yellow Mottle Virus (RYMV) is severely impacting rice cultivation across Africa, posing a significant threat to food security. Origin & Spread Historical Origin: Likely emerged in the 19th century in the Eastern Arc Mountains of East Africa, transferring from wild grasses to cultivated rice. …