GS

GS3 – Science & Technology Context Recently, the Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in the USA used SPArc therapy to treat a patient suffering from Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), a rare cancer affecting the salivary glands or head and neck regions. What is SPArc Therapy? SPArc (Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton …

GS1 – Art & Culture Context: The ancient Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple located at Simhachalam is facing structural deterioration due to its age. Location & Deity Situated on the Simhachalam Hill Range in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Narasimha (boar-lion) incarnation. Architectural Style A …

GS3 – Science & Technology Context India is strategically positioned to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing biotechnology, guided by forward-looking initiatives such as the BioE3 Policy and the India AI Mission. BioE3 Policy – 2024 The BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy, approved by the Union Cabinet …

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 …

GS3 – Environment  Context: India faces a dual challenge: balancing energy security and climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. This necessitates a gradual but firm shift from coal to renewables, ensuring a just transition for affected communities and sectors. India’s Coal Consumption & Energy Mix Coal Dependency: Contributes ~55% of …

GS2 – International Relations Context Recent maritime incidents, such as the fire on MV Wan Hai 503 and the sinking of MSC ELSA 3 near Kerala, have spotlighted safety issues and environmental concerns linked to international shipping. International Governance of Maritime Transport Role of IMO: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) …

GS3 – Environment Context The government has proposed new guidelines to regulate the operational temperature range of air conditioners (ACs) across the country, aiming to improve energy efficiency and reduce electricity consumption. Key Proposal Newly manufactured ACs will be required to operate within a preset temperature range of 20°C to …

GS1 – Art & Culture Context: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has granted Geo-Heritage Site status to the Belum Caves located in Andhra Pradesh’s Nandyal district. Key Details about Belum Caves Initially identified in 1884 by Robert Bruce Foote, the caves were later extensively surveyed between 1982 and 1984 …

GS3 – S&T Context: The “Fund Kaveri Engine” campaign has gained attention post-Operation Sindoor, spotlighting this indigenous turbojet project. What is Kaveri Engine? An indigenous turbofan engine developed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru. Designed originally in the 1980s to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and …

GS3 – S&T Context: A recent study has found that an ancient mutation on the X chromosome activates the Arhgap36 gene, causing the orange coat color in domestic cats. Key Details: Location: Arhgap36 gene is on the X chromosome in mammals (cats and humans). Function: Regulates cellular processes related to …

GS2 – IR Context: India and African nations are strengthening digital collaboration using open-source Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) aligned with Africa’s 2020–2030 digital roadmap. Africa Day, celebrated on May 25, commemorates the creation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, symbolizing a unified vision for African progress. The African …

GS1 – Geography Context : A rare crescent-shaped weather formation observed over Delhi was identified by IMD radar as a “bow echo”. Understanding Bow Echo: Definition: A bow echo is a curved band of thunderstorms, also known as a squall line, which appears on radar in the form of an …

GS3 – S&T Context The U.S. Air Force successfully test-launched its LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile), designed for long-range nuclear strike capabilities. Minuteman III ICBM Overview: Originally deployed in the 1970s, the Minuteman III is set to be phased out and replaced by the LGM-35A Sentinel system. It …

GS3 – Infrastructure Context: The CBI filed a chargesheet against a former J&K Governor over alleged procedural violations in the Kiru Hydroelectric Project. The project is situated at the confluence of the Chenab River with the Singad and Bela streams, close to Kiru and Patharnakki villages in Kishtwar district, J&K. …

GS2 – Social Sector Context: CBSE, with support from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), is set to mandate ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools to raise awareness about sugar consumption and related health risks. About Sugar Boards Visual learning aids installed in schools to: Highlight sugar content in …

GS2 – Social Sector Context: India collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO) to promote AYUSH globally through a significant agreement on traditional medicine practices. This agreement initiates the development of a dedicated Traditional Medicine section within the International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI). The inclusion of this module will …

GS2 – Polity Context: The Prime Minister chaired the 10th meeting of the NITI Aayog’s Governing Council. Theme: Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047 Key Takeaways: Investment Charter: PM directed NITI Aayog to draft an Investment-Friendly Charter to encourage investments and economic development. Tourism: States were urged to each develop at …

GS 3 – Environment & Ecology Geographic Range Native to South and Southeast Asia Found in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia (Sumatra) India hosts over 60% of the global population of Asian elephants. Conservation Status Agency Status IUCN Red List Endangered …