December Monthly Prelim Booster Compilation OnlyIas PW

Prelim Booster
News Discussion
01-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
01-December-2023
Sri Lanka Agreement in Principle
India’s Green Hydrogenfor Debt Treatment Plan
Partnerships
Sri Lanka has reached an “agreement in principle” with India and the Paris
Club group of creditors, on a debt treatment plan.
👉 About Paris Club

● The Paris Club is an informal group of creditor
nations.
● Objective ➔ To find workable solutions to
payment problems faced by debtor nations.
● Membership ➔ 22 permanent members, including
most of the western European and Scandinavian
nations, the United States, Russia the United
Kingdom, and Japan.
Sri Lanka Agreement in Principle for Debt Treatment Plan
◎ India’s Participation ➔ India participates on an ad-hoc basis.
👉 Agreement in Principle for Debt Treatment Plan:

◎ Objective and Parameters ➔
○ Aimed at facilitating the disbursement of the next tranche of the
International Monetary Fund’s nearly-$3 billion recovery package.
○ The Official Creditor Committee (OCC) and Sri Lanka agreed on main
parameters aligned with the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement with
the IMF.
○ The Extended Fund Facility (EFF) provides financial assistance to countries
facing serious medium-term balance of payments problems because of
structural weaknesses that require time to address.
Sri Lanka Agreement in Principle for Debt Treatment Plan
◎ Formalization Process ➔
○ The OCC looks forward to formalizing the agreement in the coming weeks
through a Memorandum of Understanding with Sri Lanka.
○ The OCC expects "other bilateral creditors" to share information
transparently for evaluating comparability of treatment.
◎ Emphasis on Creditor Parity and Transparency ➔
○ Japan and India stress the importance of creditor parity and transparency in
the restructuring process.
Terms of Reference for 16th Finance Commission
Recently, the central government has approved the terms of reference for
the 16th Finance Commission (FC).
👉 About
◎ Report ➔ The 16th FC will submit its report by
October 2025 and the recommendations will be
valid for a 5 year period beginning April 2026.
◎ Terms of Reference (ToR) ➔ Detailed TOR for the
16th FC will be notified in due course of time.
👉 About Finance Commission:

◎ The Constitution of India (CoI) envisages the FC as the balancing wheel of fiscal
federalism in India. The first Finance Commission was set up in 1951.
◎ Set up under Article 280 of the Constitution, FC is a constitutional body formed by
the President of India to give suggestions on centre-state financial relations.
◎ Core Responsibility ➔
○ To evaluate the state of finances of the Union and State Governments.
○ Recommend the sharing of taxes between them.
○ Lay down the principles determining the distribution of these taxes among
States.
◎ Working ➔ It is characterized by consultations with all levels of government, thus
strengthening the principle of cooperative federalism.
◎ Composition ➔ It consists of a chairman and 4 other members to be appointed by

the President.
◎ Nature of Recommendations ➔ Advisory in nature, not binding on the
government.
👉 ToR for the 16th FC:
◎ ToR: It is the matters to which a study or report is limited.
◎ Make recommendations to the following matters ➔
○ Taxes Distribution: Distribution between the Union and the States of the net
proceeds of taxes.
○ Grants-in-Aid to States: Principles governing the grants-in-aid of the revenues
of the States out of the Consolidated Fund of India and sums to be paid to the
States.
○ Panchayats and Municipalities Resources: The measures needed to
supplement the resources of the Panchayats and Municipalities are based on
the recommendations made by the Finance Commission of the State.
◎ Financing Disaster Management ➔ Review the present arrangements on financing
Disaster Management initiatives and make appropriate recommendations.
◎ Report ➔ Make its report available by 31st October 2025 covering a period of five
years commencing on the 1st day of April 2026.
Centre and Manipur Signs Peace Agreement with UNLF
Recently, the Union Home Minister announced the signing of a peace
agreement with the Meitei separatist group, United National Liberation
Front (UNLF), in Manipur.
👉 Precedent for the Peace Agreement

◎ Historical Context ➔ Various Valley-Based
Insurgent Groups (VBIGs) have historically
refrained from entering agreements or
participating in peace talks with the Centre.
◎ Limited Precedents ➔ Some groups like the UPPK,
KCP, and Maoist Communist Group, though
possibly having insignificant strength, have either
disbanded or become insignificant in the past.
◎ UNLF's Split and Leadership Changes ➔

○ The UNLF experienced a formal split in the mid-1990s, leading to the formation of
the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), another proscribed group, under N Oken.
◎ Recent Split and Factions ➔ In 2021, a split occurred, with Khundongbam Pambei
breaking away from the central committee.
○ Presently, there are two factions: one under Pambei's chairmanship and the
other under NC Koireng's chairmanship.
◎ Consideration of the Peace Agreement ➔
○ While the terms of the recent agreement with the UNLF remain undisclosed, its
significance is underscored by the group's historical stature and impact in
Manipur.
○ The presence of mass organizations and a substantial public turnout at recent
events in Manipur reflects the group's enduring influence.
👉 About United National Liberation Front (UNLF):

◎ Formation ➔ Founded on November 24, 1964, the UNLF is the oldest valley-based
insurgent group in Manipur.
○ It was formed with the demand for secession from India.
◎ Operational Scope ➔ The area of operation includes all valley areas of Manipur and
some villages in Kuki-Zomi hill districts.
◎ Current Status ➔
○ Two factions of the UNLF exist, collectively comprising an estimated 400-500
cadres.
○ Primarily operates from camps in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region, Chin State, and
Rakhine State, with Myanmar military patronage.
◎ Legal Status ➔ Proscribed and banned under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.
Mullaperiyar Dam Case
The Supreme Court directed the Survey of India to assess whether the
proposed mega car park project in Kerala, near the Mullaperiyar dam area,
encroaches upon the land specified in the Periyar Lake Lease Agreement of
October 1886.
👉 About Mullaperiyar dam
◎ Location ➔ The dam is situated in Kerala but is operated by
Tamil Nadu
◎ Utility ➔ The water from the reservoir is utilized for power
generation in the lower Periyar by Tamil Nadu, then directed
into the Suruliyar, a tributary of the Vaigai River, and
irrigating approximately 2.08 lakh hectares in Theni and four
other more distant districts.
👉 Mullaperiyar Inter-State Water Dispute

◎ Water level ➔ Tamil Nadu wants the water level to be raised to 142 ft in
accordance with the 2014 Supreme Court decision, whereas Kerala insists on
maintaining it at 139 ft due to damage to dams and environmental concerns and
◎ Fairness of agreement ➔ Kerala also objects about the fairness of the lease
agreement.
👉 Survey of India:
◎ It is the country's National Survey and Mapping Organization under the
Department of Science & Technology.
👉 Periyar Lake Lease Agreement of October 1886:

◎ A lease indenture for 999 years was made on 29-10-1886 between Maharaja of
Travancore and Secretary of State for India for Periyar irrigation works.
◎ By another agreement in 1970, Tamil Nadu was permitted to generate power.
Nepal Allows to Register Same-Sex Marriage
Nepal became the first South Asian country to register same-sex marriage
officially five Months after the Supreme Court of Nepal legalized it.
👉 About
● In June 2023, the Supreme Court of Nepal
issued an interim order to legalize same-sex
marriage in a writ petition filed by multiple
people, including Gurung.
● But despite the historic order to temporarily
register same-sex marriage, Kathmandu
District Court four months ago rejected the
move, citing a lack of necessary laws.
Nepal Allows to Register Same-Sex Marriage
👉 Same-Sex Marriages India:

◎ General Definition ➔ Same-sex marriage in India refers to marriages between
two individuals of the same gender.
◎ Supreme Court verdict on Same-Sex Marriage ➔
○ On Same-Sex Marriage: The Court unanimously held that there is “no
unqualified right” to marriage and same-sex couples can’t claim it as a
fundamental right under the Constitution.
Quick revision (True/False)
Question True / False
Finance Commission -> Statutory body.
Paris Club -> an informal group of creditor nations.
Survey of India -> under the Department of Science & Technology.
First South Asian country to register same-sex marriage officially -> Sri
Lanka.
Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) -> initiative of the Ministry of
Home Affairs to deal with cybercrime in the country.
iCET Initiative-> launched by India and the US in May 2007
NISAR -> is a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) observatory being jointly developed by
NASA and ISRO.
Practice Question
Consider the following criteria used by 15th Finance Commission to determine each
state’s share in central tax:
1. Demographic Performance
2. Income Distance
3. Forest and Ecology
4. Area
Which of the following is the correct arrangement of the above criterias according to
the increasing order of the weights assigned?
A. 4-1-2-3
B. 1-3-2-4
C. 3-1-2-4
D. 3-1-4-2
Practice Question
With reference to the Fast Track Special Court (FTSC), consider the following
statements:
1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme which was launched in 2013 in the aftermath of

the "Nirbhaya" gangrape case in Delhi.
2. The Scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the All-India Judicial Service (AIJS), consider the following
statements:
1. Article 127 of the Constitution of India, as amended by the 42nd Amendment,

provides for the creation of an AIJS.
2. The creation of an AIJS requires a resolution adopted by the Council of States with
a majority of two-thirds members present and voting, and a parliamentary law.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
• Recently, the Indian President suggested the creation of an All-India Judicial
Service (AIJS), that will help diversify the judiciary through a merit-based process
for recruitment.
• Statement 1 is not correct: Article 312 of the Indian Constitution, as amended by

the 42nd Amendment, provides for the creation of an AIJS.As per Article 312 of
the Indian Constitution, Parliament has the power to create a new All India
Service, if the Council of States passes a resolution declaring that it is required in
the interest of the nation.
• Statement 2 is correct: The creation of an AIJS requires a resolution adopted by

the Council of States with a majority of two-third members present and voting,
and a parliamentary law.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements regarding Global Navigation Satellite System
(GNSS):
1. Any satellite constellation that provides positioning, navigation, and timing

services on a global or regional basis is part of GNSS.
2. Quasi-Zenith Satellite System is a global GNSS owned by China.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Recently, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory
circular on interference with the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) in
airspace, highlighting the threats GNSS jamming and spoofing pose for aircraft
operations.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: GNSS is a general term describing any satellite constellation

that provides positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services on a global or
regional basis. While GPS is the most prevalent GNSS, other nations have fielded
their own systems
◎ Statement 2 is not correct: Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) is a regional GNSS

owned by the Government of Japan and operated by QZS System Service Inc. (QSS).
QZSS complements GPS to improve coverage in East Asia and Oceania. Japan
declared the official start of QZSS services in 2018 with 4 operational satellites, and
plans to expand the constellation to 7 satellites for autonomous capability
Practice Question
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
02-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
02-December-2023
Conference of Parties
Urging countries to rise above self-interest and deliver on all their climate
obligations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged developed countries to
completely cut down their carbon footprint by 2050.
👉 About
• India's Climate Commitments: India is committed
to achieving its Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs) and emphasized its
achievements in reducing emission intensity well
ahead of the committed time frame.
• Emission Reduction Targets: India aims to
decrease emission intensity by 45% by 2030 and
increase the share of non-fossil fuels to 50%.
• India's Role: Despite being home to a significant portion of the global population,
India's contribution to global carbon emissions remains below 4%.
• Call for Global Action: PM Modi urged developed nations to reduce their carbon
footprint significantly by 2050 and stressed the importance of multilateral
development banks in providing affordable climate finance.
• Hosting COP 33: India proposed to host the COP33 climate summit in 2028,
showcasing its commitment to leading global climate discussions.
◎ About COP:
• Annual UN Conference: It's an annual United Nations-hosted meeting where
delegates from nearly 200 countries convene to discuss and negotiate climate
change-related matters.
• Purpose: The conference focuses on combating climate change and its impacts
through global cooperation and agreements.
• Participants: COP summits draw tens of thousands of attendees, including world
leaders, industry leaders, policymakers, and representatives from various sectors.
• COP28 in Dubai: Notably, this summit marked the largest-ever UN climate summit
with 80,000 registered participants. Efforts were made to identify lobbyists and
potential conflicts of interest among attendees.
• Stakeholders: The summit had diverse attendees, including government officials,
policy experts, academics, industry representatives, and a considerable number of
individuals interested in environmental innovation.
World Malaria Report 2023
According to the World Malaria Report 2023, Malaria cases continue to dip
in India but they are up globally.
👉 About Malaria Disease

◎ Type of disease ➔ Malaria is an infectious disease
transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes and
caused by plasmodium protozoa.
◎ Prevalence ➔ It poses a life-threatening risk,
primarily affecting tropical and subtropical regions
in Africa, South America, and Asia.
◎ Cause ➔
○ This disease is caused by plasmodium parasites, which spread through the
bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
○ These parasites multiply initially in liver cells and then attack Red Blood Cells
(RBCs).
◎ Transmission ➔ The transmission of malaria occurs through the bites of infected
female Anopheles mosquitoes. The parasites proliferate first in liver cells before
invading Red Blood Cells (RBCs).
◎ Species and Threat ➔ Five parasite species cause malaria in humans, with
Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax posing the most significant threat.
◎ Symptoms ➔ Common symptoms include fever and flu-like illness, characterised
by chills, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue.
👉 Indian Initiatives to Control Malaria:

◎ National Framework for Malaria Elimination (2016-2030) ➔
○ Target: The Government of India set a target to eliminate malaria in India by
2027.
○ National Strategic Plan for Malaria Elimination for 5 years.
○ Launched in 2017, It shifted focus from Malaria control to elimination.
○ It provided a roadmap to end malaria in 571 districts out of India’s 678
districts by 2022.
◎ Malaria Elimination Research Alliance-India (MERA-India) ➔
○ Established by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
○ It is a conglomeration of partners working on malaria control
◎ India Achievement ➔ India has achieved a reduction of over 83% in malaria

morbidity and 92% in malaria mortality between the years 2000 and 2020.
Decline
India’s Green in PMI
Hydrogen Partnerships
👉 About
● Scoring Methodology ➔ In PMI, a score above 50
means expansion while a score below 50 denotes
contraction
● Business confidence slipped amid a slowdown in
global trade due to slower growth in major
economies and persistent inflation, financial
vulnerabilities and geopolitical tensions in the
Middle East and Ukraine.
Decline in PMI
👉 About PMI:
◎ PMI data are compiled by S&P Global for more than 40 economies worldwide.
◎ Monthly Data ➔ Derived from surveys at private sector companies.
◎ The PMI dataset features ➔
◎ Headline Number: It indicates the overall health of an economy.
◎ Sub-Indices: Provide insights into other key economic drivers such as GDP,
inflation, exports, capacity utilization, employment and inventories.
Purchasing Managers Index
• Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is an economic indicator, which is derived after
monthly surveys of different companies.
• It measures activity at the purchasing or input stage. (Index of Industrial
Production (IIP) measures output)
• There are two types of PMI — Manufacturing PMI and Services PMI.
• The index shows trends in both the manufacturing and services sector.
• PMI does not capture informal sector activity.
• PMI data for India is released by S&P Global - a global major in financial
information and analytics.
• A PMI number greater than 50 indicates expansion in business activity while
number less than 50 shows contraction.
Nagaland Statehood Day
COP28 participants reached a groundbreaking consensus to operationalize
an L&D fund, a crucial step towards addressing the devastating
consequences of climate change for vulnerable countries.
👉 About Nagaland
● Nagaland was formally recognized as a
separate state on 1st December, 1963,
with Kohima being declared as its capital.
● The State of Nagaland Act, 1962, was
enacted by the Parliament to give
Nagaland statehood.
👉 Foundation:
◎ After India became independent in 1947, the Naga territory initially remained a
part of Assam.
◎ However, a strong nationalist movement began seeking a political union of the
naga tribes, and extremists demanded outright secession from the Indian union.
◎ This movement led to a number of violent incidents, and in 1955 the Indian army
was called in to restore order.
○ In 1963, the Naga people agreed to form a state part of an independent
India.
👉 Hornbill Festival
◎ Conceptualised in the year 2000, the Hornbill Festival is a ten day annual tourism
promotional event organised by the State Government.
◎ Aim ➔ To showcase Nagaland's rich and traditional cultural heritage in all its
ethnicity, diversity and grandeur..
◎ Official Partners ➔ Germany, the United States, and Colombia are official
partners in 2023
◎ It is known as the 'festival of festivals'.
◎ It is also a tribute to Hornbill bird, which is admired and revered by Nagas for its
alertness and grandeur.
👉 Hornbill Bird:
◎ The Great Indian Hornbill, a member of the hornbill family, is found in the Indian
subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
◎ It is the official state bird of Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh.
◎ Conservation Status ➔
○ IUCN: Near Threatened.
○ CITES: Appendix I
○ Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
◎ Threats ➔
○ Hunting: It poses another substantial threat to the species as it displays
predictable behavior when regularly visiting the same feeding sites and is
easily targeted by local hunters.
Kerala to Host Transplant Games
For the first time, Kerala organizes Transplant Games, a competitive
sporting event for organ transplant recipients and donors.
👉 About
◎ Aim ➔ It aims to honor organ donors and their families
to raise the morale and confidence of organ recipients.
◎ Awareness ➔ It will help to raise awareness about
organ transplantation and foster a culture of organ
donation.
◎ Building Community ➔ The occasion helps Transplant
recipients and donors to bond, connect and build a
community.
◎ Success of Organ Transplantation ➔ It is to showcase the success of organ

transplantation in improving the quality of life and spreading the message that
people who have undergone organ transplant surgeries can lead normal lives.
◎ The concept of Transplant Games, the importance of physical activity and a
healthy lifestyle in transplant recipients' long-term management and well-being is
well established.
👉 World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF):

◎ A worldwide organization representing more than 70 countries, has celebrated the
success of organ transplantation and the gift of life through competitive sporting
events for transplant recipients since 1978.
👉 Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011:

◎ The government of India amended the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994
in 2011.
◎ Purpose of Act ➔ Regulation and removal, storage, and transplantation of human
organs and tissues for therapeutic purposes and for prevention of commercial
dealing in human organs and tissues and for matters connected therewith or
incidental thereto.
PMI Data -> Released by NSO.
Hornbill Festival -> Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh.
Malaria Disease -> The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the main vector.
Practice Question
With reference to the ‘Finance commission’, consider the following statements:
1. Its recommendations are binding on the government.

2. The Finance Commission members are not eligible for reappointment.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Which of the following International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions has been
ratified by India?
1. Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)

2. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No.105)
3. Equal Remuneration Convention (No.100)
4. Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention (No.111)
5. Minimum Age Convention (No.138)
6. Worst forms of Child Labour Convention (No.182)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 5 and 6 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Finance Commission -> Statutory body.
Paris Club -> an informal group of creditor nations.
Survey of India -> under the Department of Science & Technology.
First South Asian country to register same-sex marriage officially -> Sri
Lanka.
Practice Question
Consider the following criteria used by 15th Finance Commission to determine each
state’s share in central tax:
1. Demographic Performance
2. Income Distance
3. Forest and Ecology
4. Area
Which of the following is the correct arrangement of the above criterias according to
the increasing order of the weights assigned?
A. 4-1-2-3
B. 1-3-2-4
C. 3-1-2-4
D. 3-1-4-2
Practice Question
Criteria 15th Finance Commission

Income Distance 45.0
Area 15.0
Population (2011) 15.0
Demographic 12.5
Performance
Forest and Ecology 10.0
Tax and fiscal efforts 2.5
Total 100
Practice Question
With reference to the Fast Track Special Court (FTSC), consider the following
statements:
1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme which was launched in 2013 in the aftermath of

the "Nirbhaya" gangrape case in Delhi.
2. The Scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Fast track courts for trying Sexual Offenses
The Union Cabinet on November 29 approved the continuation of fast-track
courts, dedicated to the dispensation of justice in cases of sexual offenses,
for a period of three years.
👉 About
● The Fast Track Special Court (FTSC), a centrally
sponsored scheme launched in 2019, will now be
extended to March 31, 2026.
● Nodal Ministry ➔ the Department of Justice,
Ministry of Law and Justice.
◎ Aim ➔ It has established fast-track courts across the country, ensuring the swift
disposal of cases related to rape and those coming under the Protection of
Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
◎ Current Status ➔ A total of 30 states and union territories have participated in
the scheme, operationalizing 761 fast-track courts, including 414 dedicated
POCSO courts, which have resolved over 1,95,000 cases together.
◎ Challenges ➔ Only 754 of the 1,023 courts have been operational.
👉 Nirbhaya Fund:
◎ The Government has set up a dedicated fund Nirbhaya Fund following the
tragedy of the December 2012, Nirbhaya Rape Case.
◎ This can be utilized for projects specifically designed to improve the safety and
security of women.
◎ It is a non-lapsable corpus fund administered by the Department of Economic
Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
◎ The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) is the nodal Ministry to
appraise/recommend proposals and schemes to be funded.
◎ MWCD further has the responsibility to review and monitor the progress of
sanctioned schemes in conjunction with the line Ministries/Departments.
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is not correct:

◎ The Fast Track Special Court (FTSC), a centrally sponsored scheme which was
launched in 2019, would now be extended up to March 31, 2026.
◎ Statement 2 is not correct:

◎ The Scheme is implemented by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and
Justice to ensure the swift disposal of cases related to rape and those coming
under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
04-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
04-December-2023
Gajraj System
Gajraj System
Recently, the Railway Minister unveiled an innovative AI-driven initiative-
Gajraj.
👉 About
● Gajraj is a kind of Intrusion Detection System or
IDS.
● It is built to use the existing optical fiber cable
(OFC) as sensors to identify elephant movements
near railway tracks and alert locations to station
masters, loco pilots and control offices.
Gajraj System
◎ The Indian Railways has chosen the Northeast Frontier Railways to pilot this
program and implement this new, cutting-edge technology in some of the worst
affected areas.
◎ How does the system work? ➔
○ Every time an elephant steps onto the track, the system alerts the train
controller, station master, train drivers, and other stakeholders who take
precautionary measures to avoid imminent danger.
○ A real-time alarm is generated when a movement is detected.
91st Green
India’s Interpol General Partnerships
Hydrogen Assembly
Recently, the Indian delegation attended the 91st Interpol General

Assembly in Vienna, Austria.
👉 About
● The International Criminal Police Organization is an
inter-governmental organization with 195 member
countries.
● Goal ➔ Help police in all member countries work
together to make the world safer.
● Function ➔ It enables members to share and
access data on crimes and criminals, offering
technical and operational support.
91st Interpol General Assembly
◎ Intergovernmental organization formed in 1923
◎ Headquarters at Lyon, France
◎ India and Interpol ➔ India joined Interpol in 1949 is one of its oldest members.
◎ Red Notice (Wanted Persons) ➔ A Red Notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide
to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal
action.
◎ Other Notices by Interpol ➔
○ Yellow: Missing persons
○ Blue: Additional information
○ Black Notice: Unidentified bodies
○ Green Notice: Warnings and intelligence
○ Orange notice: Imminent threat
○ Purple Notice: Modus operandi
👉 India's Interpol Engagement:

◎ CBI's Central Role ➔ The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) serves as India's
National Central Bureau for Interpol, coordinating international police
cooperation for Indian law enforcement via Interpol channels.
◎ Engagement ➔ India hosted the 90th Interpol General Assembly in Delhi
(October 2022).
○ Key Resolutions and Initiatives: The assembly passed resolutions
strengthening collaborative responses against financial crime, corruption,
and online child sexual exploitation.
◎ Global Influence ➔ During the Delhi Session, Interpol released its first global
crime trend report, solidifying India's influence in shaping international crime-
fighting strategies.
◎ Leadership Programs and Training Hub ➔

○ In 2023, India hosted the Interpol Young Global Police Leaders program,
attracting participation from 44 countries.
○ The CBI Academy joined the Interpol Global Academy Network, to emerge as
a global training hub for Interpol.
Interpol's Red Notice
CBI
◎ Central Bureau of Investigation

◎ Comes under Ministry of Personnel Public Grievances and Pensions
◎ Not a statutory body
◎ Derives its powers from Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946
◎ Establishment of CBI recommended by Santhanam Committee on Prevention of
Corruption (1962 - 64)
◎ Premier investigating police agency in India
India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway
The Uttar Pradesh(UP) government has set aside 1,700 hectares of land
along with the Bundelkhand Expressway for setting up solar energy plants.
👉 About Bundelkhand Expressway

● It is a four-lane expressway which will link the
Bundelkhand area from the national capital Delhi
through the Agra-Lucknow expressway and
Yamuna expressway.
● Aim ➔ Promoting green and renewable energy,
and bolstering the e-vehicle charging
infrastructure.
👉 Significance of Solar Expressway:

◎ It will cater to the energy needs of the houses along the expressway and serve as
a foundation for e-mobility and local socioeconomic development.
◎ The use of solar energy will cut down on carbon emissions and save on the energy
costs.
◎ It will generate a significant amount of green energy thus reducing greenhouse
gas emissions.
◎ It will further lead to economic growth in terms of enhanced open grid access.
Pakistan beats India to secure the Vice Chair post at UNESCO
Pakistan has recently defeated India in an election at the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO)[ executive board
for the Vice Chair post.
👉 About
◎ Aim ➔ It promotes peace and security by
promoting international cooperation in education,
sciences, culture, communication and information.
◎ Establishment ➔ Specialized agency of the United
Nations, established on November 16, 1945.
◎ Headquarters ➔ Located in Paris, France.
◎ Membership ➔ The Organization has 194 Members and 12 Associate Members.

◎ UNESCO Governance:
◎ General Conference ➔ The General Conference comprises the representatives of
UNESCO's Member States. It meets every two years.
○ Voting: One vote per country, irrespective of size or budget contribution.
○ Languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish.
○ Responsibilities:
▪ Determines policies and Main work lines.
▪ Set programs and UNESCO budget.
▪ Elects Executive Board members.
▪ Appoints Director-General every four years.
◎ Executive Board ➔ It oversees UNESCO's overall management.
○ Composition: Fifty-eight members elected by the General Conference,
representing diverse cultures and regions.
○ Meetings: Biannual sessions to address UNESCO's governance.
○ Term: 4 Years
◎ Secretariat ➔ The Secretariat is the Executive Branch of the organization. It
consists of the Director-General and the Staff appointed by him or her.
👉 India and UNESCO:

◎ Membership ➔ India has been a member of UNESCO since 1946.
◎ Principal Coordinating Body ➔ The Indian National Commission for Cooperation
with UNESCO (INCCU) serves as the principal body facilitating collaboration
between India and UNESCO, as mandated by the UNESCO constitution.
◎ Leadership in Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) ➔

○ India holds a significant role in UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee for
the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) for the 2022-2026
cycle.
◎ Recognition of Durga Puja ➔ Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on UNESCO's
Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
UN FAO: Agriculture Most Climate-Affected Sector
UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a study on the
sidelines of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) which underscores the
critical need for targeted efforts to address vulnerabilities in agrifood
systems.
👉 About
◎ According to the study, agrifood systems and the
communities that support and depend on them are
on the front lines of loss and damage linked to
climate change.
◎ Agriculture is the climate-affected sector globally,
with 40% of countries reporting economic losses
explicitly linked to it.
◎ About 35% of current climate action plans explicitly refer to loss and damage, with
agriculture being identified as the single most impacted area.
👉 Emirates Declaration:
◎ It was announced at a special session of the World Climate Action Summit.
◎ Commitment ➔ It commits 134 countries to integrating food into their climate
plans (NDCs) by 2025.
◎ This marks the first time in UN climate talks that countries have made a clear
commitment to take action on the global food system.
◎ Significance ➔ The countries also included those with the highest food systems-
related greenhouse gas emissions like Brazil, China and the European Union.
◎ Technical Cooperation: COP28 and a group of partners announced a collaborative

effort to offer countries quality technical cooperation and to help deliver on the
objectives of the Declaration.
○ The partners pledged more than USD$200 million, while also committing to
increase coordination across their wider portfolios.
India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway -> Bundelkhand Expressway.
Gajraj System -> Every time an elephant steps onto the track, the system
alerts the train controller, station master, train drivers, and other
stakeholders.
Interpol -> National Investigation Agency serves as India's National Central
Bureau for Interpol.
PMI Data -> Released by NSO.
Hornbill Festival -> Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh.
Malaria Disease -> The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the main vector.
Practice Question
With reference to the “Significant outcomes of Conference of Parties (COPs)”,
consider the following statements:
1. COP21: Keeping global temperature below 2.0 degree Celsius above pre-industrial
times and endeavoured to limit them even more to 1.5 degree Celsius.
2. COP 24: Finalisation of a rulebook to operationalise the 2015 Paris Agreement.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the “X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat)”, consider the following
statements:
1. XPoSat is designated for observation from Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)

and High Earth Orbit.
2. It comprises two scientific payloads, both developed indigenously by Defence
Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
3. The mission life of XPoSat is expected to be approximately five years.

A. One only
B. Two only
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to the ‘Finance commission’, consider the following statements:
1. Its recommendations are binding on the government.

2. The Finance Commission members are not eligible for reappointment.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Recently, the central government has approved the terms of reference for the 16th
Finance Commission (FC).
◎ Set up under Article 280 of the Constitution, FC is a constitutional body formed by
the President of India to give suggestions on centre-state financial relations.
◎ It is characterised by consultations with all levels of government, thus strengthening
the principle of cooperative federalism.
◎ It consists of a chairman and 4 other members to be appointed by the President.
◎ Statement 1 is not correct: Its recommendations are advisory in nature, not binding
on the government.
◎ Statement 2 is not correct: The Finance Commission consists of a chairman and four
other members to be appointed by the president. They hold office for such a period
as specified by the president in his order. They are eligible for reappointment.
Practice Question
Which of the following International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions has been
ratified by India?
1. Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)

2. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No.105)
3. Equal Remuneration Convention (No.100)
4. Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention (No.111)
5. Minimum Age Convention (No.138)
6. Worst forms of Child Labour Convention (No.182)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 5 and 6 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Practice Question
• Nearly 30 lakh workers die every year globally due to work-related accidents and
diseases, according to a new report prepared by the International Labour
Organization (ILO).
• ILO came into existence in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles.
• It aims to Promote internationally recognized human and labour rights.
• It was the first affiliated specialised agency of the United Nations in 1946.
• India is a founding member of the ILO and it has been a permanent member of
the ILO Governing Body since 1922.
• India has ratified following ILO conventions which include:
• Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)
• Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No.105)
• Equal Remuneration Convention (No.100)
• Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention (No.111)
• Minimum Age Convention (No.138)
• Worst forms of Child Labour Convention (No.182)
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
05-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
05-December-2023
Cyclone Michaung
Cyclone Michaung
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a cyclonic storm,
Cyclone Michaung, over the southwest Bay of Bengal.
👉 About
◎ It is likely to make landfall in the coastal districts
of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
◎ Michaung' is a name provided by Myanmar. It
means strength and resilience.
◎ Cyclone Michaung is the fourth tropical cyclone of
the year over the Bay of Bengal.
Cyclone Michaung
👉 About Tropical Cyclones:

◎ Tropical cyclones develop in the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and
Cancer.
◎ The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO, 1976) uses the term 'Tropical
Cyclone’ to cover weather systems where winds exceed ‘Gale Force’ (minimum of
34 knots or 63 kph).
◎ A mature tropical cyclone is characterized by the strong spirally circulating wind
around the center, called the eye.
◎ Tropical cyclones have different names depending on their location and strength.
○ For instance, they are known as hurricanes in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of
Mexico, the North Atlantic Ocean and the eastern and central North Pacific
Ocean. In the western North Pacific, they are called typhoons.
Cyclone Michaung
👉 What is Landfall?
◎ Landfall refers to the center of a storm – or its eye – moving overland from the sea.
◎ Landfalls can last for a few hours, with their exact duration depending on the speed
of the winds and the size of the storm system.
Cyclone Michaung
◎ Conditions for Tropical storms ➔

○ Large sea surface with a temperature higher than 27° C;
○ Presence of the Coriolis force;
○ Small variations in the vertical wind speed;
○ A pre-existing weak low-pressure area or low-level-cyclonic circulation;
○ Upper divergence above the sea level system.
◎ How are Cyclones formed? ➔
○ The development cycle of tropical cyclones may be divided into three stages:
○ Formation and Initial Development Stage: The formation and initial
development of a cyclonic storm depends upon various conditions. These are
○ A warm sea (a temperature above 26 degrees Celsius to a depth of 60 m) with
abundant and turbulent water vapor transfer to the overlying atmosphere by
evaporation.
Cyclone Michaung
○ Atmospheric instability encourages the formation of massive vertical cumulus
clouds due to convection with condensation of rising air above the ocean
surface.
○ Mature Phase: Air rises and tends to spread out at the tropopause level. The
air warms up by compression, generating a warm ‘Eye’.
○ Modification and Decay: Cyclone begins to weaken as its warm, moist air
source begins to ebb or is abruptly cut off. This happens after its landfall or
when it passes over cold waters.
Cyclone Michaung
👉 What is Landfall?
◎ Landfall refers to the center of a storm – or its eye – moving overland from the sea.
◎ Landfalls can last for a few hours, with their exact duration depending on the speed
of the winds and the size of the storm system.
International Maritime Organisation Council
India was re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)
Council with the highest votes and the council term will be for the biennium
2024-25.
👉 About IMO
◎ Genesis ➔ The International Maritime
Organization is the United Nations specialized
agency responsible for the safety and security
of shipping and preventing marine and
atmospheric pollution by ships.
◎ History ➔ In 1948 an international conference in Geneva adopted a convention

formally establishing IMO (the original name was the Inter-Governmental Maritime
Consultative Organization, or IMCO, but the name was changed in 1982 to IMO).
○ The IMO Convention entered into force in 1958 and the new Organization
met for the first time the following year.
◎ Members ➔ IMO currently has 175 Member States and three Associate Members.
India has been one of the earliest members of the IMO, having ratified its
Convention and joined it as a member-state in 1959.
◎ Composition ➔
◎ The Organization consists of an Assembly, a Council, five main Committees and a
number of Sub-Committees support the work of the main technical committees.
◎ Assembly ➔
○ This is the highest Governing Body of the Organization.
○ It consists of all Member States and meets once every two years in regular
sessions, but may also meet in an extraordinary session if necessary.
○ The Assembly is responsible for approving the work program, voting the
budget and determining the financial arrangements of the Organization. The
Assembly also elects the Council.
◎ Council ➔
○ The Council is elected by the Assembly for two-year terms beginning after
each regular session of the Assembly.
○ The Council is the Executive Organ of IMO and is responsible for supervising
the work of the Organization.
○ The Council performs all the functions of the Assembly (Between sessions of
the Assembly), except for making recommendations to Governments on
maritime safety and pollution prevention.
○ Recently, IMO has adopted amendments to expand the size of the IMO
Council to 52.
◎ Other functions of the Council ➔
○ Co-ordinate the activities of the organs of the Organization;
○ Consider the draft work program and budget estimates of the Organization
and submit them to the Assembly;
○ Receive reports and proposals of the Committees and other organs and
submit them to the Assembly and Member States, with comments and
recommendations as appropriate;
○ Appoint the Secretary-General, subject to the approval of the Assembly;
○ Enter into agreements or arrangements concerning the relationship of the
Organization with other organizations, subject to approval by the Assembly
◎ Role Of IMO ➔ To promote safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient and
sustainable shipping through cooperation.
◎ Key IMO Conventions ➔
○ International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS, 1974, as
amended.
○ International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as
modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto and by the Protocol of 1997
(MARPOL)
○ International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers ( STCW) as amended, including the 1995 and 2010
Manila Amendments
Codex Alimentarius Commission Praised India On Millets
The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), has praised India's Standards on
Millets and accepted its proposal for developing global standards for millets
during its 46th session in Rome, Italy.
👉 Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC)

● Genesis ➔ It is an international food standards
body established in May 1963.
● It was jointly by the Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO) and the World Health
Organization (WHO).
● Objective ➔ Setting an international food safety
and quality standard to protect consumers’ health
and ensure fair practices in the food trade.
◎ Members ➔ Currently the Codex Alimentarius Commission has 189 Codex

Members made up of 188 Member Countries and 1 Member Organization (The
European Union).
○ India became a member of Codex Alimentarius in 1964.
◎ Its roles and responsibilities ➔
○ The Agreement on Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)
of the World Trade Organization (WTO) recognizes Codex standards,
guidelines and recommendations as reference standards for international
trade and trade dispute settlement.
◎ Codex Standards/Texts ➔ “Voluntary in nature, Codex standards can be general
or specific and are recognized by WTO Agreements as reference standards”
◎ General Standards, Guidelines and Codes of Practice ➔

○ These core Codex texts, typically deal with hygienic practice, labeling,
contaminants, additives, inspection & certification, nutrition and residues of
veterinary drugs and pesticides and apply horizontally to products and
product categories.
◎ Commodity standards ➔
○ Codex commodity standards refer to a specific product, although Codex is
increasingly developing standards for food groups.
◎ Regional standards ➔
○ Standards developed by the respective Regional Coordinating Committees,
applicable to the respective regions.
Three Antisubmarine warfare ships for Indian Navy
Recently, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) launched the first three vessels of
the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts for the Indian Navy.
👉 About
◎ Three vessels named INS Mahe, INS Malva, and INS
Mangrol are of an eight-part series of Anti-
Submarine Warfare (ASW) shallow water crafts for
the Indian Navy replacing the existing Abhay class
ASW Corvettes.
◎ The first ship in the series is scheduled for delivery
by November 2024.
◎ Significance ➔ It showcased India's achievements in indigenization and self-

reliance in shipbuilding, portraying the country's growing naval capabilities.
👉 About Anti-submarine warfare ships:

◎ Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) encompasses tactics and strategies involving
surface warships, aircraft, submarines, and other platforms to detect, track, and
prevent enemy submarines from engaging in hostile activities.
◎ Objectives ➔
○ ASW operations are focused on locating, monitoring, deterring, damaging, or
eliminating hostile submarines to ensure maritime security and protect vital
naval assets.
○ They will handle anti-submarine operations, Low Intensity Maritime
Operations (LIMO), and Mine Laying Operations in coastal waters.
◎ Vessel Specifications ➔
○ Length and Width: The vessels are 78.0 m long, 11.36 m wide with a draught
of about 2.7 m.
○ Displacement: The displacement is about 896 tonnes, with a maximum speed
of 25 knots
◎ Capabilities ➔
○ ASW ships are outfitted with an array of weaponry, such as light-weight
torpedoes, ASW rockets, mines, a 30mm close-in weapon system, and
stabilized 12.7mm remote control guns.
Loss and Damage Fund
COP28 participants reached a groundbreaking consensus to operationalize
an L&D fund, a crucial step towards addressing the devastating
consequences of climate change for vulnerable countries.
👉 About
● It was proposed during COP-27 in Sharm El-Sheikh,
Egypt in 2022.
● The fund will operate through an independent
secretariat located at the World Bank and has
received commitments of at least $450 million from
various countries. However, a significantly larger
sum is necessary to fulfill its intended purpose.
👉 About Loss and Damage Fund:

◎ Aims ➔ It to provide support to less affluent nations (such as Small Island
Nations like Tonga, Fiji) that have contributed minimally to climate change but
are disproportionately vulnerable to severe climate-related incidents.
◎ Based on Polluters Pay Principle ➔
○ This principle holds accountable entities responsible for environmental
damage, making them liable for expenses related to remedial measures and
compensating those affected by their actions.
◎ Interim Host and Operational Period ➔ The World Bank will serve as the "interim
host" for the fund for a duration of four years, operating in line with the
principles of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
◎ Eligibility and Contributions ➔

○ All developing nations can apply for funds, and every country has been
"invited" to contribute voluntarily.
○ A specific allocation has been set aside for Least Developed Countries and
Small Island Developing States.
Practice Question
With reference to the “X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat)”, consider the following
statements:
1. XPoSat is designated for observation from Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)

and High Earth Orbit.
2. It comprises two scientific payloads, both developed indigenously by Defence
Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
3. The mission life of XPoSat is expected to be approximately five years.

A. One only
B. Two only
C. All three
D. None
X-Ray
India’s Polarimeter
Green HydrogenSatellite
Partnerships
ISRO (India) is set to launch its first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite.
👉 About
● X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) will be
launched by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
(PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in
Sriharikota.
● Aim ➔ It is India's pioneering polarimetry mission
aimed at studying various dynamics of
astronomical sources in extreme conditions.
X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite
◎ It is only the world’s second polarimetry mission using X-ray after NASA's Imaging
X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) that was launched in 2021.
👉 About XPoSat
◎ XPoSat, India's pioneering X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, marks the country's first
dedicated mission to delve into the dynamics of astronomical X-ray sources.
◎ XPoSat Objective ➔ To explore various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray
sources in extreme conditions.
◎ It carries two main scientific payloads in low Earth orbit ➔
◎ POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) ➔

○ Measures polarization parameters in the medium X-ray energy range (8-30
keV) from astronomical sources.
○ Developed by Raman Research Institute (RRI) in collaboration with U R Rao
Satellite Centre (URSC).
○ Functionality: Polarimeter for astronomical observations in the 8-30 keV
energy band.
○ Components: Includes a collimator, scatterer, and four X-ray proportional
counter detectors.
○ Objective: Intends to observe nearly 40 bright astronomical sources over
XPoSat's planned 5-year mission lifespan, providing significant polarimetry
insights.
◎ XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) ➔

○ It provides spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV for
various X-ray sources, enhancing timing accuracy and resolution.
○ Features: Provides high-resolution spectroscopic information and timing
capabilities in the 0.8-15 keV X-ray energy range.
○ Instrumentation: Employs Swept Charge Devices (SCDs) with superior energy
resolution and passive collimators for background reduction.
○ Scope: Targets various sources, including X-ray pulsars, black hole binaries,
and active galactic nuclei, enabling long-term monitoring and spectral state
observations.
◎ Recently, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced that India is
set to launch its first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat), aiming to investigate
the polarization of intense X-Ray sources.
◎ Statement 1 is not correct: The XPoSat spacecraft is designated for observation
from Low Earth Orbit (non-sun synchronous orbit of ~650 km altitude), carrying
two scientific payloads.
◎ Statement 2 is not correct: The primary payload of XPoSat is POLIX (Polarimeter
Instrument in X-rays), which was developed by the Raman Research Institute
(RRI), Bengaluru, with support from various ISRO centres.
◎ The secondary payload is the XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) payload,
which was developed by the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO.
◎ Statement 3 is correct: The mission life is expected to be approximately five
years.
◎ The payloads onboard XPoSat will observe the X-Ray sources during the
spacecraft’s transit through the Earth’s shadow, i.e., during the eclipse period.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad -> His Literary Works - Kesari and Maratha.
International Maritime Organisation -> is not the United Nations

specialized agency.
Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC) -> jointly by the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway -> Bundelkhand Expressway.
Gajraj System -> Every time an elephant steps onto the track, the system
alerts the train controller, station master, train drivers, and other
stakeholders.
Interpol -> National Investigation Agency serves as India's National Central
Bureau for Interpol.
Practice Question
With reference to the places recently seen in the news, consider the following pairs:
Places Location
1. Whitsun Reef : Andaman islands
2. Marapi Volcano : Indonesia
3. Donetsk City : Azerbaijan
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to the Institute of Nano-Science and Technology (INST) in India,
1. INST is the first dedicated Nano-Science Institute in the country set up to

undertake research and generate products/devices and technology in the area of
Nanoscience and Technology.
2. It is an autonomous institution under the Society Registration Act, 1960.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the “Significant outcomes of Conference of Parties (COPs)”,
1. COP21: Keeping global temperature below 2.0 degree Celsius above pre-industrial
times and endeavoured to limit them even more to 1.5 degree Celsius.
2. COP 24: Finalisation of a rulebook to operationalise the 2015 Paris Agreement.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ In the COP28 climate conference in Dubai, a loss and damage fund to help
vulnerable countries cope with the impact of climate change has been officially
launched.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: In COP-21, which was held in Paris in 2015, each country
decided the level and kind of effort it would undertake to solve the climate
change problem. These actions were referred to as nationally determined
contributions (NDC).
◎ COP-21 focused on keeping global temperature below 2.0 degree Celsius above
pre-industrial times and endeavoured to limit them even more to 1.5 degree
Celsius.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: The COP-24 was held in Katowice, Poland in 2018. Its
main aim was to finalise the implementation guidelines for the Paris Agreement
and the parties reached an agreement on the Paris Rulebook.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
06-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
06-December-2023
Exercise Milan-2024
◎ It will feature large-force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, anti-

submarine warfare and anti-surface drills.
👉 Significance:
◎ Expansion of the Navy’s Engagements ➔
○ It will underscore the Navy's growing presence as a preferred security
partner and first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
○ Mission-based deployments and other operational engagements have
steadily increased the Indian Navy's presence and operational reach.
Exercise
India’s Green Milan-2024
The Indian Navy will deploy its aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and INS
Vikrant for exercise Milan-2024 to be held in February.
👉 About
● It is a biennial multinational naval exercise that was
first conducted in 1995 and has grown to be the
biggest exercise held in India.
● Milan 2024 Exercise ➔
● Location: Coast of Visakhapatnam, India.
Exercise Milan-2024
◎ It will feature large-force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, anti-

submarine warfare and anti-surface drills.
👉 Significance:
◎ Expansion of the Navy’s Engagements ➔
○ It will underscore the Navy's growing presence as a preferred security
partner and first responder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
○ Mission-based deployments and other operational engagements have
steadily increased the Indian Navy's presence and operational reach.
Venezuelans Claim Guyana Region in Referendum
Venezuela held a nonbinding referendum to strengthen the nation's
century-old claim to the oil-rich Essequibo territory governed by Guyana.
👉 About Essequibo
● The Essequibo region is more than two-thirds of
the territory of Guyana and is home to 125,000 of
its 800,000 citizens.
● Location ➔ A geographical region in the
northeast of South America.
◎ Significance ➔ The region also has the world’s biggest crude oil reserves per
capita. Recently, Guyana announced a “significant” new oil discovery, adding to
estimated reserves of at least 10 billion barrels more than Kuwait or the United
Arab Emirates.
◎ Guyana is set to surpass the oil production of Venezuela and according to
estimates, the country is on track to becoming the world’s largest per-capita
crude producer by 2025.
◎ Significance ➔ The region also has the world’s biggest crude oil reserves per
capita. Recently, Guyana announced a “significant” new oil discovery, adding to
estimated reserves of at least 10 billion barrels more than Kuwait or the United
Arab Emirates.
◎ Guyana is set to surpass the oil production of Venezuela and according to
estimates, the country is on track to becoming the world’s largest per-capita
crude producer by 2025.
Climate Vulnerable Forum
Recently, the Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF)
called for Indian companies to invest in ‘climate-vulnerable’ countries.
👉 About
◎ The CVF is the international forum for countries
highly vulnerable to climate change.
◎ Genesis ➔ It was founded in November 2009 by
the Maldives at Male’, together with 10 other
countries.
Climate Vulnerable Forum
◎ Composition ➔ 58 members.
○ There are 27 countries from Africa and West Asia; 11 from Latin America and
the Caribbean and 20 from the Asia-Pacific.
○ They include Asian nations such as Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Pakistan and
Nepal.
◎ The Forum is led by a rotating chair for an ordinary period of two years, with Ghana
currently chairing for the period 2022-2024.
◎ Significance ➔ The Forum serves as a South-South cooperation platform for
participating governments to act together to deal with global climate change.
Indonesia’s Merapi Volcano Erupts
Eleven climbers died in Indonesia after the Merapi volcano erupted in West
Sumatra, Indonesia.
👉 About
◎ Mount Merapi is a stratovolcano – a tall, conical
volcano composed of one layer of hardened lava,
tephra (fragmented material produced by a
volcanic eruption) and volcanic ash.
◎ Characteristics ➔ These volcanoes are
characterized by a steep profile and periodic,
explosive eruptions (pyroclastic flows)
◎ Pyroclastic flows is a fast-moving current of extremely hot gas and rock, which
travels away from the volcano at very high speeds
◎ Location ➔ Tectonically, Merapi is situated at the subduction zone where the Indo-
Australian Plate is sliding under the Eurasian Plate.
◎ It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
👉 Stratovolcano:
◎ Stratovolcano, a volcanic landform characterized by a conical shape formed by
layers of volcanic material deposited during successive volcanic eruptions.
👉 The Ring of Fire:

◎ The Ring of Fire, also called the Circum-Pacific Belt, is a
path along the Pacific Ocean characterized by active
volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.
◎ It traces boundaries between several tectonic plates—
including the Pacific, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Indian-
Australian, Nazca, North American, and Philippine
Plates.
👉 Subduction Zone:
◎ Subduction zone is a collision between two of Earth's
tectonic plates, where one plate sinks into the mantle
underneath the other plate
Practice Question
With reference to the places recently seen in the news, consider the following pairs:
Places Location
1. Whitsun Reef : Andaman islands
2. Marapi Volcano : Indonesia
3. Donetsk City : Azerbaijan
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Pair 1 is incorrect: Whitsun Reef is located in the South China Sea, and it comes
under the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). However, China also claims
the reef under the nine-dash line.
◎ China stakes claim to 90% of the South China Sea, and this claim is based on the
U-shaped nine-dash line etched on the map in the 1940s by a Chinese geographer.
Practice Question
Practice Question
◎ Pair 2 is correct: The 2,891m high Mount Marapi is located on Indonesia's
westernmost Sumatra island.
◎ The Indonesian archipelago sits on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, where the
meeting of continental plates causes high volcanic and seismic activity.
Practice Question
Practice Question
◎ Pair 3 is incorrect: Donetsk is a city located in southeastern Ukraine, on the
headwaters of the Kalmius River. It is the capital of Donetsk oblast (province) and
the most prominent city in the Donets Basin (Donbas) industrial region.
◎ With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Donetsk became a major industrial
engine of the economy of independent Ukraine.
◎ After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin announced the
annexation of Donetsk in Ukraine.
Practice Question
Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST)
Union Minister of Science and Technology addresses faculty and students at
the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) in Mohali, Chandigarh.
👉 About
● INST is India's first Nano-Science Institute
dedicated to research and product development
in Nanoscience and Technology.
● It is an autonomous research institution under the
Society Registration Act, 1960.
● INST operates under the Department of Science
and Technology's national mission on Nano
Science and Technology (NANO Mission).
◎ It started its activities on 3rd January 2013.

◎ Research Focus Areas ➔
○ Agricultural Nanotechnology, Nanomedicine, Energy and Environmental
Science, Quantum Materials and Device Physics, Nano Electronics,
Microfluidics Based Technologies, Nanobiotechnology.
◎ Aims ➔ To emerge as a globally competitive research institution, applying
nanoscience in agriculture, medicine, energy, and the environment.
◎ Objectives of INST ➔
○ Resource building - Infrastructure and Manpower
○ Enhance research activity in Nano Science and Nano Technology
○ Training students in Ph.D. program in Nano Science and Technology
○ Generating patents in Nano Science and Technology
👉 About Nanotechnology:
◎ Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter on a near-atomic scale to produce
new structures, materials and devices.
◎ Applications ➔ It promises scientific advancement in many sectors such as
medicine, consumer products, energy, materials, and manufacturing.
◎ Example ➔
○ Electronics: Carbon nanotubes are on the verge of replacing silicon in
microchip production, leading to smaller, faster, and more efficient devices.
○ Biomedicine: Nanomaterials prove advantageous in biomedicine, offering
improvements in the early diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative
diseases and cancer.
Practice Question
With reference to the Institute of Nano-Science and Technology (INST) in India,
1. INST is the first dedicated Nano-Science Institute in the country set up to

undertake research and generate products/devices and technology in the area of
Nanoscience and Technology.
2. It is an autonomous institution under the Society Registration Act, 1960.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the Maratha Kingdom, the term “Sarkhel” refers to which one of the
following designations?
A. Admiral of the Navy

B. Commander in Chief of Army
C. Chief of Espionage network
D. Revenue collector
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the 2023 report by National
Crime Records Bureau:
1. The crimes against women saw an increase over the 2021 numbers.
2. There was an increase in the reporting of cybercrime cases due to increased
digital awareness among people.
3. The state/ UT reporting the highest chargesheeting rate of crimes under the
Indian Penal Code is Puducherry.
How many of the statements given above are correct?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Exoplanets -> orbit stars other than the sun and thus exist outside the solar
system.
Operation Trident -> operation by the Military of India that led to the
capture of Goa, Daman and Diu and Anjediva Islands.
Stratovolcano -> characterized by a conical shape formed by layers of
volcanic material deposited during successive volcanic eruptions.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad -> His Literary Works - Kesari and Maratha.
International Maritime Organisation -> is not the United Nations

specialized agency.
Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC) -> jointly by the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Birth Anniversary
The President of India, paid tributes to Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first
President of India on his birth anniversary i.e., on December 3rd, 2023.
👉 About
◎ Birth ➔ Born to Mahadev Sahai Srivastava (a
Sanskrit and Persian language scholar) and
Kamleshwari Devi on 3rd December 1884 in
Ziradei, Siwan, Bihar.
◎ Known For ➔ He was an independence activist,
lawyer, scholar and was an influential leader
during the Indian freedom struggle.
◎ When India became a republic in 1950, he was elected as the President of the
Constituent Assembly and became the longest-serving head of India (for 12 years).
◎ In 1962, he retired from politics and public life.
◎ Death: He died on 28th February 1963 at the Sadaqat Ashram in Patna, at the age
of 78.
Education ➔
◎ At an early age of 5, under the guidance of a Moulavi, he learnt Persian, Hindi and
arithmetic.
◎ Higher Studies: He won a scholarship to study at the University of Calcutta and
joined the Presidency College in Calcutta.
◎ In 1907, he completed his MA in Economics. During his college, he was an active

social activist and joined the Dawn Society and the Servants of India Society.
○ After completing his MA, he became a professor of English at the Langat Singh
College in Bihar and went on to become the principal.
◎ In 1909, he pursued his law studies in Kolkata.
○ While pursuing his law studies, he also worked as Professor of Economics at
Calcutta City College.
◎ In 1915, he passed the examination of master's in law from the Department of
Law, University of Calcutta and won a gold medal.
○ In 1916, he commenced his legal career in the Patna High Court.
◎ In 1937, he completed his Doctorate in Law from Allahabad University.
◎ His Literary Works ➔

○ Satyagraha at Champaran (1922)
○ Division of India (1946)
○ Atmakatha (1946)
○ His autobiography written during his 3-year prison term in Bankipur Jail
○ Mahatma Gandhi and Bihar, Some Reminiscences (1949)
○ Bapu Ke Qadmon Men (1954)
○ Since Independence (published in 1960)
○ Bharatiya Shiksha
○ At the feet of Mahatma Gandhi
◎ Association with the Indian National Congress (INC) ➔
○ As a Volunteer: In 1906, during his student days, he attended an INC session
as a volunteer.
○ Member: In 1911, he officially joined the INC (in the annual session held in
Calcutta).
◎ Contribution in Constitutional Making ➔
◎ President: In October 1934, he was elected President of the INC during the Bombay
session.
○ He became President of the Constituent Assembly in July 1946.
○ Committees of Constituent Assembly under his Chairmanship:
• Ad hoc Committee on the National Flag
• Committee on the Rules of Procedure
• Finance and Staff Committee
• Steering Committee
◎ Role in the National Movement of India ➔

◎ Champaran Satyagraha: He supported the 'Champaran Satyagraha'.
○ He called for non-cooperation in Bihar as part of Gandhiji’s non-cooperation
movement.
○ He toured Bihar, holding public meetings and making heartfelt speeches
supporting the movement.
◎ Left with Law Practice: He gave up his law practice and started a National College
near Patna, in 1921 and dedicated himself to the cause of freedom.
◎ Action on Boycott: In response to Gandhi's call for a boycott of Western
educational institutions, he dropped his son from school and enrolled him in Bihar
Vidyapeeth.
○ Bihar Vidyapeeth was an institution that was developed on the traditional
Indian model by him and his colleagues.
◎ Imprisonment ➔ Being an activist of the Independence movement, he was

imprisoned multiple times by the Britishers, such as
○ In 1931, for participating in the Salt Satyagraha Movement.
○ In 1942, for being an active member of the Quit India Movement.
◎ His Humanitarian Actions ➔

◎ In 1914, when floods struck Bihar and Bengal, he helped people.
◎ In January 1934, after experiencing the earthquake, he set up the Bihar Central
Relief Committee and raised funds to help the affected people.
◎ His Legacy ➔
◎ President of India: He was elected unanimously in 1952 as the President of India.
◎ He was re-elected in 1957 and remains the only President of India to achieve this
feat.
○ Longest Tenure: Prasad is the only President to serve two full terms and he
stayed in office for the longest term of around 12 years.
◎ During his rule, the Mughal Gardens at the Rashtrapati Bhavan were opened to the
public for the first time for about a month, and it has since become a major tourist
attraction.
◎ Bharat Ratna: He was awarded with the nation’s highest civilian award, the Bharat
Ratna in 1962.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
07-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
07-December-2023
Annual Crime Report of the National Crime Records Bureau
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) released its annual report on
crime in India for the year 2022.
👉 About
◎ The report published by the NCRB presents data on
reported crimes from across the country
◎ It includes statistics on offences ranging from financial
and commercial crimes to crimes against women.
◎ The data for the report is collected by the State Crime
Records Bureaux (SCRBx) from the District Crime
Records Bureaux (DCRBx) and sent to NCRB at the end
of every calendar year.
◎ The report contains comprehensive information on ➔

○ Cases registered and their disposal and
○ Persons arrested and their disposal.
👉 Key Highlights from the Report:

◎ Decline in Registration Cases ➔ In 2022, 58,24,946 cognizable crimes comprising
35,61,379 Indian Penal Code (IPC) and 22,63,567 under Special and Local Laws (SLL)
were registered.
○ It shows a decline of 2,71,364 (4.5%) in registration of cases over 2021
(60,96,310 cases).
○ The State/UT reporting the highest Charge-sheeting Rate under IPC Crimes are
Kerala (96.0%), Puducherry (91.3%) and West Bengal (90.6%)
◎ Crime Rate ➔ From 445.9 crimes reported per lakh people in 2021 to 422.2 crimes in
2022, the crime rate has decreased.
○ Crime rate refers to the number of cases registered per lakh population.
◎ Cases of Murder ➔ A total of 28,522 cases of murder were registered during 2022,
showing a marginal decline of 2.6% over 2021(29,272 cases).
◎ Crime against Women ➔ In 2022, 4,45,256 incidents of crime against women were
reported. Compared to 2021(4,28,278 cases), there was a 4% increase in number.
○ Major reason: Cruelty by Husband or His Relatives" accounted for the highest
percentage of crimes against women (31.4%), followed by "Kidnapping &
Abduction of Women" (19.2%) and "Assault on Women with Intent to Outrage her
Modesty" (18.7%).
○ State with maximum crime against women: With 14,247 cases, Delhi had the
highest rate of crime against women at 144.4 against the country’s average of 66.4.
◎ Cybercrimes ➔ Under it, 65,893 cases were registered showing an increase of

24.4% in registration over 2021 (52,974 cases).
◎ Reporting of Cyber Crime ➔ Around 64.8% of registered cases were of fraud,
followed by extortion (5.5%), and sexual exploitation (5.2%).
◎ Suicides ➔ The number of suicides reported in 2022 increased by 4.2% over 2021.
◎ Major reason behind suicide ➔ 54.9% of all suicides in the nation in 2022 were
caused by "Family Problems (other than marriage-related problems)" (31.7%),
"Marriage Related Problems" (4.8%), and "Illness" (18.4%). The suicide victims'
overall male to female ratio was 71.8:28.2.
◎ Kidnapping & Abduction ➔ In 2022, 1,07,588 cases of kidnapping and abduction
were reported, which represents a 5.8% increase from 1,01,707 occurrences in
2021.
◎ Crime against Children ➔ In 2022, 1,07,588 cases of kidnapping and abduction were
reported, which represents a 5.8% increase from 1,01,707 occurrences in 2021.
◎ Crime against Senior Citizens ➔ 28,545 cases were registered for committing crimes
against Senior Citizens (aged above 60 years), showing an increase of 9.3% from 2021.
◎ Crime/Atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SCs) ➔ There is a 13.1% rise in cases
against SCs in 2021.
◎ Crime/Atrocities against Scheduled Tribes (STs) ➔ Cases registered for committing
crimes against Scheduled Tribes (STs) show an increase of 14.3% over 2021.
◎ Economic Offences ➔ These witness an increase of 11.1% in registration over 2021
◎ Prevention of Corruption Act: State Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACBs) recorded 4,139
cases in 2022 compared to 3,745 cases in 2021, indicating a 10.5% rise.
👉 About National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB):

◎ Origin ➔ It was established in January 1986 based on the recommendations of the
Tandon Committee.
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Home Affairs.
◎ Functions of NCRB ➔
○ Crime Data: It is mandated to compile and keep records of data on crime.
○ Fingerprint Records: It also acts as a “national warehouse” for the fingerprint
records of Indian and foreign criminals, and assists in locating interstate
criminals through fingerprint searches.
○ Implementation of (CCTNS) project: It is entrusted with monitoring,
coordinating and implementing the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and
System (CCTNS) project.
○ The CCTNS project connects about 15000 police stations and 6000 high offices
of the country.
○ Maintaining NDSO: It is also responsible for maintaining the National
Database of Sexual Offenders (NDSO) and sharing it with the States/UTs on a
regular basis.
○ Monitoring Online Cyber Crime Information Portal: It oversees the technical
and operational process of the Portal through which citizens can file
complaints of child obscenity, rape, gang rape and collect evidence.
○ Maintaining FICN: It maintains the Counterfeit Currency Information and
Management System (FICN) and Integrated Monitoring Application on
Terrorism.
◎ Key Reports published by NCRB ➔ Crime in India, Accidental Deaths and Suicides,
Prison Statistics.
◎ How are the data for NCRB reports compiled? ➔

○ Data from Police forces: The data is obtained from the police departments of 36
states and Union Territories.
○ Data Verification: The data at the local police station level submitted by the
State/UT police is verified by the district and state levels before being approved by
the NCRB.
◎ The NCRB follows the ‘Principal Offence Rule’. This means that among many offences
registered in a single FIR, crime that attracts the most severe punishment is considered as
the counting unit. Thus, ‘Murder with Rape’ would be counted as ‘Murder’, not rape —
which would result in an undercounting of the crime of rape.
👉 Way Forward/Reforms in Criminal Justice System:

◎ Modernisation of Police Forces ➔ With the changing nature of crime, state-of-the-art
technology and mutual coordination crime has become necessary for the police.
◎ Reforms in Judiciary ➔ It should aim to reduce delays and arrears in the system
and enhance accountability through structural changes and by setting performance
standards and capacities.
◎ Measures needed are ➔
○ Transparency in the appointment systems (Fair and Accountability)
○ Reforming Investigation (Many Innocent people being wrongfully charged and
punished.)
○ Timely delivery of judgements
○ Establishing National Judicial Infrastructure Authority of India (To improve
Infrastructure for court systems )
○ Better District Courts
◎ Prison Reforms ➔ It should include the development of alternatives to

imprisonment, the provision of education and job training programs, the
implementation of mental health and substance abuse treatment programs.
◎ Welfare Scheme for Poor ➔ Government interventions are needed to address the
concerns of the poor in India.
○ Poverty and crime have a complex and often contentious relationship.
○ The cost of being unable to afford necessities, combined with the lack of
opportunity for social and economic advancement, creates a breeding ground
for criminal activities.
◎ Strengthen NCRB ➔ States must utilise the NCRB's data to create their annual
police strategy, which should have a multifaceted and multipurpose use in crime
control.
◎ Revamp of criminal laws ➔ Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure
(CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act (IEA) need overhaul as these laws were made
to strengthen colonial rule, with the intention of giving punishment instead of
justice.
Rizz- Oxford
India’s Word
Green of the Partnerships
Hydrogen Year for 2023
According to the publishers of the Oxford English Dictionary "rizz," is the

word of the year for 2023.
👉 About
● According to Oxford University Press (OUP),
which publishes the Oxford English Dictionary,
Rizz is a colloquial noun defined as style, charm,
attractiveness, and the ability to attract a
romantic or sexual partner.
● Many believe the term is a shortened version of
the word “charisma”.
Rizz-Oxford Word of the Year for 2023
◎ Other Words in Competition to Rizz's are Situationship, Prompt, De-influencing,

and Swiftie.
◎ Previous words chosen by OUP have included Vax (2021), Climate Emergency
(2019), and, by public vote for the first time, Goblin Mode (2022).
◎ How is the Word of The Year chosen and why did Rizz win it? ➔
○ Typically, the Word of the Year chosen by Oxford relies on evidence of usage
derived from its regularly updated corpus, which comprises over 22 billion
words. These words are sourced from news outlets spanning the English-
speaking world.
○ Oxford language experts selected Rizz from a pool of eight words, weighing
their cultural and linguistic heft with more than 32,000 votes from the public
on social media and the Oxford Languages website.
Drought Emergency
India’s DeclaredPartnerships
Green Hydrogen by 23 Countries
Recently, the Global Drought Snapshot report was released by the UN

Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) coinciding with COP 28.
👉 About Drought
● It is s a prolonged dry period in the natural climate
cycle that can occur anywhere in the world.
● Features: It is a slow-onset disaster characterized by
the lack of precipitation, resulting in a water shortage.
● Impact ➔ Droughts have a cascading effect ranging
from dwindling reservoir levels, declining crop yields,
loss of biological diversity, famines to serious
economic consequences, especially in agriculture
dependent regions.
Drought Emergency Declared by 23 Countries
◎ Anthropogenic Causes of Droughts ➔

○ Increasing Water Consumption: Due to excessive irrigation and population
growth.
○ Anthropogenic Climate Change: Due to greenhouse gas emissions.
○ Land Use Land Cover Change: It includes activities like over farming,
urbanisation, deforestation and soil degradation.
👉 Key Findings:
◎ An emergency was declared in 23 countries due to the impact of drought.
○ Asia: India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Kazakhstan and China.
○ Europe: Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, Greece, Portugal, Romania and Serbia.
Drought Emergency Declared by 23 Countries
○ North America: the United States and Canada also declared drought
emergencies.
○ South American: Uruguay.
○ Africa: Niger, Djibouti, Cabo Verde and Mauritania, Ethiopia, Kenya and
Somalia.
○ Other countries: Including Kiribati, Marshal Islands, and Tuvalu.
Indian Navy Day 2023
Indian Navy Day is celebrated on December 4 each year, to recognize the
role and achievements of the Indian Navy.
👉 About
● The celebration of Indian Navy Day, on December
4 holds historical significance as it commemorates
'Operation Trident' during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
● The Indian Navy Day 2023 theme is "Operational
Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission
Accomplishment in the Maritime Domain".
👉 Marathas and Indian Navy:

◎ INS Shivaji ➔ To commemorate the sea-faring prowess of the Marathas, under
Shivaji, the Indian Navy has named its training establishment in Lonavla as INS
Shivaji.
◎ INS Angre ➔ The shore-based logistics and administrative hub of the Western
Naval Command, Mumbai, is named as INS Angre — after Kanhoji Angre (1669-
1729), the celebrated Maratha naval commander. Kanhoji Angre, took over as the
'Sarkhel' (Meaning: Admiral of the Navy) of the Maratha fleet in 1699
◎ New Naval Ensign ➔ The use of the octagonal design of the seal of Shivaji on the
new Naval Ensign.
👉 About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:

◎ Father of the Indian Navy’ ➔ Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj the great Maratha
ruler, is considered by many as the ‘Father of the Indian Navy’.
◎ It is him who laid the foundation of a modern navy in India.
◎ Philosophy of Naval Dominance ➔ Historians note that his vision for the navy
was based in his belief – “Jalameva yasya, balameva tasya”, which translates to
“He who rules over the seas is all powerful”.
◎ According to Indian Navy documents, the Maratha navy held both the Portuguese
and the British at bay.
◎ Construction of multiple naval forts ➔ Between 1653 and 1680, Shivaji ordered
the construction of multiple naval forts, starting with the Vijaydurg in 1653, and
followed by the likes of Sindhudurg and Kolaba.
◎ Birth of the Maratha Navy (1661-1663) ➔ Between 1661 and 1663, the Maratha
Navy came into existence, and at its peak included 400-odd ships of various kinds
and sizes. These included both larger battleships, and other vessels of varying
shapes and purposes, such as the gurab, tarande, galbat, shibad, and pal.
◎ According to BK Apte’s pioneering A History of the Maratha Navy and Merchant
Ships (1973), Shivaji’s navy tasted its first success when he used 85 ships to attack
Basuru near Kundapura in today’s Karnataka a mission that yielded a huge booty.
◎ Limitation: The Marathas could hold their own in littoral waters but could not
challenge European naval power in the high seas.
👉 Operation Trident and its significance:

◎ In 1971, Pakistan launched an attack on December 3 on the Indian air bases.
◎ In response, the Indian Navy planned an attack on the night of December 4 and 5,
as Pakistan didn't have the aircraft to carry out bombings.
◎ The Indian Navy targeted the Pakistan naval headquarters in Karachi during
'Operation Trident'.
◎ It launched three missile boats - INS Veer, INS Nipat, INS Nirghat and Vidyut-class
boats - towards Karachi and sank three Pakistani Navy ships, including PNS
Khaibar.
Practice Question
With reference to the Maratha Kingdom, the term “Sarkhel” refers to which one of the
following designations?
A. Admiral of the Navy

B. Commander in Chief of Army
C. Chief of Espionage network
D. Revenue collector
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the 2023 report by National
Crime Records Bureau:
1. The crimes against women saw an increase over the 2021 numbers.
2. There was an increase in the reporting of cybercrime cases due to increased
digital awareness among people.
3. The state/ UT reporting the highest chargesheeting rate of crimes under the
Indian Penal Code is Puducherry.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ According to the report, the cases of crime against women in 2022 saw an increase
of four percent over the 2021 numbers. The largest share of crimes against women
was registered under ‘Cruelty by Husband or His Relatives’ (31.4%), followed by
‘Kidnapping & Abduction of Women’ (19.2%), and ‘Assault on Women with Intent
to Outrage her Modesty’ (18.7%). Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
◎ The reporting of cybercrime increased significantly by 24.4 percentage points

compared to 2021, to 65,893 cases. Around 64.8% of registered cases were of
fraud, followed by extortion (5.5%) and sexual exploitation (5.2%). Hence,
Statement 2 is correct.
◎ An increase of 4.2% was observed in suicides reported.

◎ The states/ UTs reporting the highest chargesheeting rate under IPC crimes are
Kerala (96.0%), Puducherry (91.3%), and West Bengal (90.6%). Hence, Statement 3
is incorrect.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Global Positioning System:
1. It is a space-based radio navigation system consisting of a constellation of

satellites broadcasting navigation signals.
2. This includes 24 satellites that circle Earth in precise orbits and are constantly
sending out radio signals.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), consider the
following statements:
1. It uses satellite data to monitor major emission events and notifies governments
and companies who can address them.
2. It has been launched by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC).

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Discovery of Exoplanets
Six exoplanets orbiting around a nearby bright star (HD 110067) in the Coma
Berenices constellation have been discovered.
👉 About
◎ The word "exoplanet" is derived from the term
"extrasolar planet."
◎ Exoplanets are planets that orbit stars other than
the sun and thus exist outside the solar system.
◎ Currently, the closest exoplanet to Earth is
Proxima Centauri b, which orbits the star Proxima
Centauri and is located 4 light-years away.
👉 Types:
◎ Hot Jupiters ➔ Hot Jupiters are gas giant exoplanets that orbit close to their stars
and complete a full orbit in just a few Earth days.
◎ Terrestrial exoplanets ➔ Terrestrial exoplanets are roughly Earth-size worlds
outside the solar system composed of rock, silicate, water and carbon.
◎ Super-Earths or mini Neptunes ➔ Super-Earths, alternatively known as mini-
Neptunes, are planets that are up to twice the size of Earth.
◎ Rogue Exoplanets ➔ They are also known as isolated planetary-mass objects and
free-floating planets, which are worlds outside the solar system that are not
gravitationally bound to stars.
👉 About HD 110067:
◎ HD 110067 is a bright star in the Coma Berenices constellation (around 100 light-
years away), visible from Earth’s Northern Hemisphere.
👉 Significance of Discovery:
◎ A study published in Nature has calculated the orbit details, along with estimates
of their masses and densities, which offer clues about the compositions of the
planets’ atmospheres.
👉 Coma Berenices constellation

◎ Coma Berenices, or Berenice’s Hair, is a constellation in the northern sky.
◎ It was named after Queen Berenice II of Egypt.
◎ The constellation is home to the North Galactic Pole.
◎ It belongs to the Ursa Major family of constellations.
Exoplanets -> orbit stars other than the sun and thus exist outside the solar
system.
Operation Trident -> operation by the Military of India that led to the
capture of Goa, Daman and Diu and Anjediva Islands.
Stratovolcano -> characterized by a conical shape formed by layers of
volcanic material deposited during successive volcanic eruptions.
Dr. BR Ambedkar -> He participated in all three Round Table Conferences.
Situationship -> Oxford Word of the Year.
India’s Forex Reserve -> comprises: Foreign currency assets (FCAs),

Monetary gold, Loans, Reserve positions in the IMF.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
08-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
08-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
08-December-2023
Garba's Inscription on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List
Garba has been declared as an Intangible Heritage by the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
👉 About
◎ Garba is a "ritualistic and devotional dance" that is
performed on the occasion of the festival of Navratri.
◎ The dance takes place around a perforated
earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp or an image of
the mother goddess Amba.
◎ The dancers wearing colorful dresses move around the
center in a counterclockwise circle.
◎ The dance begins with slow circular movements to let the tempo slowly build up to
a frenzied whirling.
◎ Significance of Garba ➔
○ Inclusive Participation: The practitioners and bearers of Garba are broad and
inclusive, from the dancers to the musicians, social groups, craftspeople and
religious figures involved in the festivities and preparations
○ Social Equality Through Garba: Garba fosters social equality by diluting socio-
economic, gender and religious structures. It continues to be inclusive of
diverse and marginalized communities, thus strengthening social bonds
👉 What is Intangible Cultural Heritage?

◎ Intangible cultural heritage is the practices, expressions, knowledge and skills that
communities, groups and sometimes individuals recognise as part of their cultural
heritage.
◎ Broad Classification of intangible cultural heritage ➔
○ Oral traditions and expressions
○ Performing arts Social practices, rituals and festive events Knowledge and
practices concerning nature and the universe
○ Traditional craftsmanship
◎ Criteria for an intangible cultural heritage ➔ The entity must be:
○ recognized by communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals as part of
their cultural heritage;
○ transmitted from generation to generation;.
○ provide a sense of identity and continuity, thus promoting respect for
cultural diversity and human creativity.
◎ Sangeet Natak Akademi is the nodal organization which files nominations of
intangible cultural entities from India, for UNESCO.
👉 Government Initiatives to promote Intangible Cultural

Heritage:
◎ Scheme for Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage and Diverse Cultural
Traditions of India ➔
○ It aims to professionally enhance awareness and interest in the safeguarding,
promotion and propagation of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
India Surpasses
India’s GreenMontreal
HydrogenProtocol Targets
Partnerships
India has successfully phased out ozone-depleting and climate-warming
chemical HCFC 141b and is ahead of schedule in eliminating another such
gas, HCFCs, according to a government report.
👉 About
● Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control)
Amendment Rules, 2019 issued under the
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 prohibited
issuance of import license for HCFC-141b.
● With this notification, prohibiting the import of
HCFC-141 b, the country has completely phased out
the important ozone depleting chemical.
India Surpasses Montreal Protocol Targets
👉 About Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-141 b:

◎ Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-141 b, which is a chemical used by foam
manufacturing enterprises and one of the most potent ozone depleting chemical
after Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) .
◎ (HCFC)-141 b is used mainly as a blowing agent in the production of rigid
polyurethane (PU) foams.
👉 About the Report:
◎ The report was jointly brought out by the Environment Ministry and UNDP,
during a side-event of the annual climate talks COP28.
◎ India has achieved a significant 33 percent reduction in emission intensity of the
economy in 2019, surpassing the target set for 2030
👉 About Montreal Protocol:

◎ It is an international environmental agreement adopted on September 16, 1987.
◎ It is the sole UN treaty universally ratified by all 197 member states, aiming to
safeguard the Earth's ozone layer by phasing out the use of ozone-depleting
substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons
(HCFCs).
◎ Objective ➔ To protect the Earth's ozone layer by phasing out the production and
consumption of ODS.
👉 The Kigali Amendment:
◎ Adopted in 2016, the Kigali Amendment aims to phase down the production and
consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases
◎ In 2016, countries agreed to include HFCs in the list of controlled substances

under Montreal Protocol and decided on a schedule for its phase-down.
◎ Before the middle of this century, current HFC use has to be curtailed by at least
85 percent. India has to achieve this target by 2047 while the developed countries
have to do it by 2036.
👉 India's Achievements in Implementing the Montreal
Protocol:
◎ India as a party since 1992 has successfully implemented the Montreal Protocol
for phasing out Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS).
◎ India phased out Chlorofluorocarbons, Carbon Tetrachloride, Halons, Methyl
Bromide and Methyl Chloroform by January 1, 2010.
◎ Currently, Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are being phased out in stages ➔

○ Stage I: 2012-2016 (successfully completed)
○ Stage II: 2017-2023 (under implementation)
○ Stage III: 2023-2030 (to be implemented)
◎ Phase-out of HCFCs in manufacturing sectors (refrigeration & air-conditioning)
will be completed by January 1, 2025.
◎ Estimated reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions ➔
○ 465 million tonnes CO2 equivalent by 2022
○ 778 million tonnes CO2 equivalent by 2030
◎ India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) supports the adoption of climate-friendly
alternatives and promotes energy efficiency during the HFC phase-out.
◎ The India Cooling Action seeks to ➔

○ Reduce cooling demand across sectors by 20% to 25% by 2037-38
○ Reduce refrigerant demand by 25% to 30% by 2037-38
○ Reduce cooling energy requirements by 25% to 40% by 2037-38
Hydrogen for Heritage Scheme
The Ministry of Railway is inviting expressions of interest from global
players to manufacture hydrogen-powered trains in the country based on
indigenously developed technology.
👉 About
◎ Announcement in Union Budget ➔ The Finance
Minister in her Budget speech in February 2023
announced the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ scheme, a
plan to operate hydrogen-powered trains on
select heritage and hilly routes that are
environmentally sensitive.
◎ Proposed Plan ➔ India’s plan to develop the technology involves the retrofitment
of hydrogen fuel cells on diesel electric multiple unit (DEMU) rakes. This prototype
is expected to run on the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana initially.
◎ Indian Railways has proposed to run 35 hydrogen trains at an estimated cost of Rs
80 crore per train, with ground infrastructure costing Rs70 crore per route.
◎ Manufacturing cost ➔ one rake of six coaches with hydrogen propulsion is
estimated at Rs 80 crore
◎ Thirty-five train-set rakes (with six coaches each) have been sanctioned for the
ongoing financial year for eight sections–Matheran Hill Railway, Darjeeling
Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railway, Kangra Valley, Bilmora Waghai,
Patalpani Kalakund, Nilgiri Mountain Railways, and Marwar-Goram Ghat.
◎ Challenges ➔ According to, the Ministry of Railways the initial running cost of
hydrogen-powered trains would be higher, but it would subsequently reduce with
an increase in the number of such trains.
👉 Hydrogen-Powered Trains:
◎ Hydrogen trains basically run on hydrogen fuel cells. These fuel cells combine
oxygen and hydrogen to create electricity, which drives the train's motors.
◎ Environmental Benefits: Hydrogen trains are more environmentally beneficial than
traditional diesel trains as they do not emit dangerous pollutants like nitrogen
oxides, carbon dioxide and particulate.
Methane
India’sAlert
GreenandHydrogen
ResponsePartnerships
System (MARS)
The UNEP report "An Eye on Methane: The Road to Radical Transparency"
released at COP28 stated that MARS in its pilot stage identified 1,500
plumes and notified governments of 127 plumes on four continents.
👉 About
● MARS is a satellite-based system launched at the
27th Conference of Parties (COP27) in Egypt.
● It uses data from multiple sources to detect and track
methane emissions.
● Launched by ➔ the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP), the European Commission, the
USA
Methane Alert and Response System (MARS)
◎ Aids in Policy Formation ➔ It is a transparent and accountable system that

provides governments and companies with the information they need to take
action to reduce methane emissions.
👉 About UNEP’s International Methane Emissions Observatory

(IMEO):
◎ The IMEO was launched at the G20 Leaders Summit in 2021.
◎ Reconciling Data from Scientific Studies ➔ It reconciles methane data from
scientific measurement studies, satellites through the Methane Alert and
Response System (MARS), rigorous industry reporting through the Oil and Gas
Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), and national inventories.
◎ IMEO also works with countries to develop baselining studies to serve multi-
sectoral industry stakeholders and governments.
👉 The Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0):

◎ OGMP 2.0 is the flagship oil and gas reporting and mitigation program of the
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
◎ Aim ➔ To improve the accuracy and transparency of methane emissions
reporting.
◎ OGMP was first launched in 2014 under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, and
was widened in scope and ambition in November 2020 to become OGMP 2.0.
◎ Global Scientific Endeavors ➔ The IMEO has also initiated 34 scientific studies
across the globe. This research will cover where methane emissions come from,
and how to mitigate them.
◎ Goal ➔ OGMP 2.0 supports oil and gas companies to better understand their
emission profiles and, most importantly, to use this knowledge to mitigate these
emissions.
Practice Question
With reference to the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), consider the
1. It uses satellite data to monitor major emission events and notifies governments
and companies who can address them.
2. It has been launched by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC).

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Global
India’s Positioning
Green HydrogenSystem (GPS)
Partnerships
Recently, the Delhi High Court sought the Cente’s stand in a plea challenging
the order of the Civil Aviation Ministry, prohibiting the carrying of receive-
only Global Positioning System (GPS) devices on aircraft.
👉 About
● It is a satellite-based radio-navigation system used for
monitoring and control.
● Origin ➔ The U.S. Department of Defence started the
GPS program in 1973 and launched the first satellite
in 1978.
● GPS is a U.S.-owned utility that provides users with
positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
◎ This system consists of three segments ➔

○ Space (Satellites): The satellites circling the Earth, transmitting signals to
users on geographical position and time of day.
○ Ground control: The Control Segment comprises Earth-based monitor
stations, master control stations and ground antenna. Control activities
include tracking and operating the satellites in space and monitoring
transmissions.
○ User equipment: GPS receivers and transmitters including items like
watches, smartphones and telematic devices.
◎ GPS Satellite Constellation ➔ The modern GPS consists of 24 satellites moving
around the earth in six orbits.
◎ Standard Positioning Service (SPS) ➔ The services provided by the GPS system
are designed to meet the SPS performance standard, the latest edition of which
was published in April 2020.
◎ In essence, the SPS standard tells application developers and users anywhere in
the world what they can expect from the GPS system.
◎ How does GPS work? ➔
○ GPS Satellite Broadcasting: Each GPS satellite continuously broadcasts a
radio signal containing information about its location in orbit, operational
status, and the time at which the signal is emitted.
○ Encoding Technique: The signals are encoded with code-division multiple
access. This allows multiple signals to be transmitted in the same channel
and for a receiver to be able to disentangle them.
◎ On a smartphone, a GPS receiver picks a signal and uses it to calculate its precise
distance from the satellite.
◎ Applications of GPS ➔ Aviation, Marine, Farming, Surveying, Sports and Fitness
Tracking, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Global Positioning System:
1. It is a space-based radio navigation system consisting of a constellation of

satellites broadcasting navigation signals.
2. This includes 24 satellites that circle Earth in precise orbits and are constantly
sending out radio signals.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following Intangible Cultural Heritages of India and the States
traditionally associated with them:
Intangible Cultural Heritage State
1. Garba Punjab
2. Ramman Uttarakhand
3. Kutiyattam Tamil Nadu
How many of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Green Credit Program of
India:
1. It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

2. The Green Credit certificate granted under the program will not be tradable on
any platform.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Dr. BR Ambedkar -> He participated in all three Round Table Conferences.
GLONASS -> China.
Hydrogen for Heritage -> Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate

Change
Mahaparinirvan Diwas-2023
The death anniversary of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is recognized as
Mahaparinirvan Diwas every year on 6 December.
👉 About
● Parinirvana represents a fundamental concept in
Buddhism, signifying the attainment of nirvana or
liberation during one's lifetime and even after
death.
● In Sanskrit, achieving nirvana posthumously or
releasing the soul from the body after death is
called Parinirvana.
👉 About Dr. BR Ambedkar:

◎ Birth: April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh
◎ Father of the Indian Constitution ➔ He was the Chairman of the Drafting
Committee and is remembered as the Father of the Indian Constitution.
◎ Literary Contributions ➔ Annihilation of Caste, The Problem of the Rupee: Its
Origin and Its Solution", “Thoughts on the Linguistic States", “The Buddha and His
Dhamma"
○ In 1916, he wrote his thesis ‘National Dividend for India — A Historic and
Analytical Study’ and received his Ph.D. Degree.
◎ Economic Contributions ➔ The Central Bank was formed on the concept
presented by Babasaheb to the Hilton Young Commission.
◎ Associated Organizations ➔
○ Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (Outcastes Welfare Association) (1923).
○ Independent Labor Party (1936)
○ Scheduled Castes Federation (1942)
◎ Social ➔ He worked towards putting in place political safeguards for
untouchables, the first of which was his presentation to the Southborough
Committee that was preparing the Government of India Act 1919.
○ He argued fervently for separate electorates for the ‘backward classes’,
○ In 1927, a Depressed Classes Conference was organized at Mahad, located in
Raigad district.
○ He attempted to pass the Hindu Code Bill, to reform Hindu personal laws
that dictated matters like marriage, divorce, succession and adoption.
◎ Constituent Assembly Membership ➔ In 1942, he was appointed to the Executive

Council of the Governor General of India as a Labour member, in 1946, he was
elected to the Constituent Assembly from Bengal.
◎ Parliamentary Life ➔ Ambedkar was also a nominated member of the Bombay
Legislative Council from 1926-34.
○ Ambedkar was appointed as the first Law Minister of independent India in
1947.
○ In 1951, he resigned from his ministership, expressing his differences on the
Kashmir issue, India’s Foreign Policy and Nehru’s Policy towards the Hindu
Code Bill.
◎ He participated in all three Round Table Conferences.
◎ Honors: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar was conferred with the title of “Bodhisattva” by

the Buddhist monks at the “Jagatik Buddhism Council” in 1954 in Kathmandu,
Nepal.
○ Under the V.P. Singh Government, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was honored with
‘Bharat Ratna’, the highest civilian award in 1990.
Montreal Protocol -> Sole UN treaty universally ratified by all 197 member
states.
Situationship -> Oxford Word of the Year.
India’s Forex Reserve -> comprises: Foreign currency assets (FCAs),

Monetary gold, Loans, Reserve positions in the IMF.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
09-December-2023
Ethics Committee
Recently, the Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha has asked Member of
Parliament to appear in connection with cash-for-question allegations.
👉 About
● Lok Saha Ethics Committee came into force in 2015
with a mandate to oversee the moral and ethical
conduct of the MPs.
● Function ➔ Examine complaints relating to unethical
conduct of an MP and make recommendations as it
may deem fit.
● Formulating a code of conduct for members and
suggesting amendments or additions.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
09-December-2023
Ethics Committee
Recently, the Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha has asked Member of
Parliament to appear in connection with cash-for-question allegations.
👉 About
● Lok Saha Ethics Committee came into force in 2015
with a mandate to oversee the moral and ethical
conduct of the MPs.
● Function ➔ Examine complaints relating to unethical
conduct of an MP and make recommendations as it
may deem fit.
● Formulating a code of conduct for members and
suggesting amendments or additions.
Ethics Committee
◎ Composition ➔ Lok Sabha Ethics Committee- 15 members appointed by Speaker;

Rajya Sabha Ethics Committee - 10 members appointed by Chairman respectively.
◎ Term: 1 year
◎ Procedure for complaints ➔ Any person can complain against a Member through
another Lok Sabha MP.
A Drug Safety
India’s Alert
Green AgainstPartnerships
Hydrogen Use of Meftal
The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) issued a drug safety alert

regarding the common painkiller, Meftal.
👉 About
● Meftal is a commonly used non-steroidal anti-
inflammatory drug (NSAID).
● The primary component of Meftal is Mefenamic
acid, a pain-relieving medication employed to
mitigate muscle and joint discomfort as well as
menstrual pain (menstrual cramps and rheumatoid
arthritis).
A Drug Safety Alert Against Use of Meftal
◎ Drug Action ➔ Reduce the production of prostaglandins, which increases the pain
sensation.
◎ Use ➔ It is commonly prescribed for various conditions such as rheumatoid
arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation,
fever, and dental pain.
◎ Risk and Side effects ➔ In addition to DRESS syndrome, other side effects such as
abdominal pain, indigestion, dry mouth, blurred vision, increased blood pressure,
swelling and gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers and bleeding.
👉 DRESS Syndrome:
◎ The Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a
rare and potentially life-threatening reaction to a medication.
◎ Symptoms ➔ Fever, Skin rash, Lymphadenopathy, eosinophilia, and a spectrum
of systemic manifestations ranging from mild to severe.
👉 The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC)

◎ It is an Autonomous Body, under administrative control of the Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare.
◎ Chairperson ➔ The Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
◎ Mandate ➔
○ Revision and publication of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (the official book of
standards for drug ).
○ National formulary of India on a regular basis besides providing IP Reference
Substances and training to the stakeholders on Pharmacopoeial issues.
👉 Pharmacovigilance Programme of India:

◎ It is Government of India’s flagship drug safety monitoring programme, which
collects, collates and analyses drug-related adverse events (AEs).
Seychelles
Seychelles recently declared a state of emergency in response to a blast at
an explosives stockpile triggered due to flooding.
👉 About
◎ Location ➔ Western Indian Ocean
○ The principal Seychelles islands are located
around 1,600 km east of Kenya and
approximately 1,100 km northeast of
Madagascar.
◎ Seychelles is located in the Southern and Eastern
Hemispheres of the Earth.
◎ Capital ➔ Located on the island of Mahé.
Seychelles
◎ UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Seychelles ➔

○ Aldabra Islands
○ Vallée de Mai National Park
◎ Ethnic groups ➔ French were the first people to settle on the collection of islands
in the 1770s.
○ Ninety percent of the Seychelles' population lives on Mahe, the largest island.
The people who live there are called Seychellois.
○ The group known as Indo-Seychellois are the second largest ethnic group in
Seychelles.
◎ Religion ➔ Roman Catholics make up more than three-quarters of the population.
Seychelles
Seychelles
Google Gemini
Recently, Google has launched a project “Gemini,” a new multimodal
general artificial intelligence (AI) to exhibit human-like behavior.
👉 About
◎ An expert helper or assistant.
◎ It is also much more powerful than existing
models.
◎ Programming Language ➔ Gemini can understand,
explain and generate high-quality code in the
world’s most popular programming languages, like
Python, Java, C++ and Go.
Google Gemini
◎ A Multimodal ➔ It is not limited to the type of information it can process and can
work, understand and operate across text, code, audio, image and video.
◎ Its Three Versions ➔ Gemini has been optimized for three versions:
○ Gemini Nano: Optimal for mobile devices and will manage on-device tasks.
○ Gemini Pro: Built for scaling across a wide range of tasks.
○ Gemini Ultra: The largest and most capable model, undertaking highly complex
tasks.
• Gemini Ultra is the first model to outperform human experts on massive
multitask language understanding (MMLU).
• MMLU uses a combination of 57 subjects such as math, physics, history,
law, medicine and ethics to test world knowledge and problem-solving
abilities.
Google Gemini
◎ Significance of Gemini ➔
○ Quality with Latency Reduction: Google claimed that Gemini performed 40%
reduction in latency in English in the U.S. alongside improvements in quality”.
○ On Safety: Google claimed that Gemini has “most comprehensive safety
evaluations of any Google AI model to date, including for bias and toxicity”,
👉 Gemini vs ChatGPT 4:
◎ More Flexible ➔ Currently, Gemini seems to be more flexible than GPT4 at the
moment.
◎ Work with Video ➔ Gemini’s ability to work with video and on devices without
Internet gives it an edge.
◎ In contrast, ChatGPT cannot currently work on video, at least not natively.
◎ Free to Use ➔ Gemini is now free while ChatGPT4 is only for paid users.
Green Credits Scheme
Recently, Green Credits Scheme was in discussion. During COP28 in Dubai,
PM Modi emphasized that the Green Credits Initiative surpasses the
commercial nature of carbon credits.
👉 About
◎ Launched by ➔ The Ministry of Environment, Forest
and Climate Change in October 2023.
○ It was first announced in the 2023-24 Union
Budget to incentivize voluntary environmental
actions of various stakeholders.
◎ Administered by ➔ The Indian Council of Forestry
Research and Education (ICFRE).
◎ Focus on ➔ Generating Green Credits through plantation on degraded wasteland.

○ Its initial phase focuses on water conservation and afforestation.
◎ A Market-based Approach ➔ It is an effort to create a market-based incentive for
different kinds of environment-positive actions, not just for carbon emission
reductions.
◎ This programme attempts to use this market-based mechanism for other
environmental actions, like water conservation or soil improvements.
◎ CSR Obligations ➔ As a starting point, the private companies would buy these
green credits as part of their CSR obligations.
○ The Companies Act, 2013 provides for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Companies are required to spend a minimum of 2% of their net profit over
the preceding three years as CSR.
◎ Measurement on Performance ➔ Methodologies and standards to measure and

verify such actions are still being developed. The market would also need to be
developed.
◎ Significance ➔ It has wider reach as it could benefit both individuals and
communities.
◎ At COP28, the Indian PM offered the concept to the international community, in
the hope to create a market for green credits at an international level.
○ While the carbon markets focused more on industry and corporations.
◎ Surpassing the Carbon Credits ➔ The initiative has the potential of achieving
optimal returns beyond just carbon.
◎ Achievement towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ➔ It would be a step

towards achieving
○ SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
○ SDG 13: Climate Action
○ SDG 15: Life on Land
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Green Credit Program of
India:
1. It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

2. The Green Credit certificate granted under the program will not be tradable on
any platform.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Seychelles -> Location - Pacific Ocean.
DRESS Syndrome-> severe allergic reaction caused by some medications.
UNSC -> India is the President for December 2023.

Practice Question
Which of the following can be used in the production of Ethanol?
1. Sugarcane juice
2. Sugar syrup
3. B-molasses
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Practice Question
The term “Article 99 of the UN Charter” is often mentioned in the news in the context
of:
A. Maintenance of International peace and security.

B. Abatement of the chemical and biological pollution
C. Coordination for environment and climate change
D. Universal agreement towards space science projects
Practice Question
Consider the following Intangible Cultural Heritages of India and the States
traditionally associated with them:
Intangible Cultural Heritage State
1. Garba Punjab
2. Ramman Uttarakhand
3. Kutiyattam Tamil Nadu
How many of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Garba – Gujarat
◎ Ramman- religious festival and ritual theatre of Uttarakhand
◎ Kutiyattam-Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala
Montreal Protocol -> Sole UN treaty universally ratified by all 197 member
states.
GLONASS -> China.
Hydrogen for Heritage -> Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate

Change
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
11-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
11-December-2023
Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme 2023
Recently, an Alternative Livelihood Programme under the Amrit Dharohar
Capacity Building Scheme-2023 has been launched in Sultanpur National
Park. Sultanpur National Park is a Ramsar Site in Haryana.
👉 About
● Launched By ➔ The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in
collaboration with the Ministry of Environment,
Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC).
● Aim ➔ Under this initiative, Indian Institute of
Tourism & Travel Management (IITTM), will build
the capacity of local community members around
different Ramsar sites.
◎ Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management (IITTM), is an autonomous body

under MoT
◎ Significance: It will strengthen nature tourism at these sites and provide
alternative livelihood to the local community.
◎ Five Priority Sites: Sites identified in the first phase by MoT and MoEFCC for
taking up training programmes for local communities under the Alternative
Livelihood Programme (ALP) are:
○ Sultanpur (in Haryana)
○ Bhitarkanika and Chilika (in Odisha)
○ Yashwant Sagar and Sirpur (in Madhya Pradesh)
👉 About Amrit Dharohar:

◎ Vision ➔ To promote unique conservation values of the Ramsar Sites in the
country while generating employment opportunities and supporting local
livelihoods.
◎ It was announced as part of the 2023-24 budget by MoEF&CC during June 2023.
◎ Emphasis On ➔ It will emphasize on the importance of wetlands and their
preservation, with an outlook that is inclusive of local communities as caretakers
of the ecosystem.
◎ Implementation By ➔ In convergence with various Central Government
ministries and agencies, State Wetland Authorities, and a network of formal and
informal institutions and individuals, working together for a common cause.
◎ Significance ➔ A scheme that will be implemented over the next three years to
encourage optimal use of wetlands, and enhance biodiversity, carbon stock, eco-
tourism opportunities and income generation for local communities.
👉 About the Nature-tourism and Wetcomponent:

◎ Implementation ➔ The Nature-tourism and Wetcomponent of Amrit Dharohar
initiative is being implemented jointly by MoT and MoEFCC.
◎ Aim ➔ To enhance livelihood opportunities for local communities through
harnessing the nature-tourism potential of the Ramsar Sites across the country.
👉 Ramsar Sites:
◎ For Wetlands ➔ These are wetlands of international importance that have been
designated under the criteria of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971) for
containing representative, rare or unique wetland types or for their importance in
conserving biological diversity.
○ Ramsar Convention is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran where it was
signed on 2 February 1971.
👉 Wetlands:
◎ Definition ➔ As per the Ramsar Convention: Wetlands are “areas of marsh, fen,
peat land or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with
water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine
water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters.”
Rare Disease: Pompe Disease
India’sTrade
GreenSettlement
Hydrogen System
Partnerships
India planning to move to T+0 trading settlement system from the current
T+1 system.
👉 About
● Before the end of financial year 2023-2024, India
will move to set up same day market settlement of
trades (T-0) and to instantaneous settlement a year
later, says SEBI chairperson.
● It means shares or money will be credited to the
investor's account on the day of the trade itself.
● This will be a parallel system in existence with the
current cycle and would be completely optional.
Trade Settlement System
👉 What is a Trade Settlement System?

◎ About ➔ The interval of time between the trade date on which an order is
executed in the market and the settlement date on which a trade is deemed final
is known as the trade settlement period in the securities industry.
◎ Status in India ➔ India already operates on a” T+1” settlement framework (
settlement one day after trade is initiated ) and moving to” T+0” would mean
settlements in the same day ( within an hour) and instant settlement would
ensure trades are settled immediately.
◎ For Example ➔ if someone buys shares on Monday, he\she will receive them in
his/her demat account on Monday itself.
👉 Prerequisites for instant trade settlement:

◎ A real time payment system ➔ UPI( Unified Payment Interface) enables instant
and seamless fund transfers across banks and platforms.
◎ Online depositories ➔ NSDL(National Securities Depositories Limited) and CDSL
(Central Depositories Services Limited) hold securities in electronic form and
facilitate their transfer through demat accounts.
◎ Robust technology stack ➔ Robust technology stack is needed for high speed and
high volume trading and settlement activities.
👉 Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI):

◎ About ➔ SEBI is a statutory body established on April 12, 1992 in accordance
with the provisions of the SEBI Act, 1992.
◎ Functions ➔ Protect the interests of investors in securities and to promote the
securities exchange market.
👉 CLEARING CORPORATION OF INDIA (CCIL)

◎ About ➔ The Clearing Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIL) was set up in April, 2001 to
provide guaranteed clearing and settlement functions for transactions in Money,
G-Secs, Foreign Exchange and Derivative markets
397 Asiatic lions died in Gujarat in last 3 years( 2019-2021)
As per the Union minister of state for environment, forest and climate
change, 397 Asiatic lions died in Gujarat due to various causes.
👉 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats

◎ Under IDWH, the financial assistance is provided
to State/UT Governments for protection and
conservation of wildlife and its habitats in
Protected Areas (PAs) as well as outside PAs and
also for the recovery programmes of the critically
endangered species.
397 Asiatic lions died in Gujarat in last 3 years( 2019-2021)
◎ It is an Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Other initiatives:

○ Launch of Project Lion in 2020
○ Asiatic lion conservation project
👉 Asiatic Lions
◎ About ➔ They are a member of the panthera leo leo sub-species that is restricted
to India presently.
◎ Distribution ➔ At present Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the only
abode of the Asiatic lion.
◎ Protection status ➔ IUCN: Endangered
○ CITES: Appendix I
○ Wildlife( Protection) Act 1972: Schedule1
Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2024
Recently, India has ranked 7th in a report Climate Change Performance
Index (CCPI) 2024, published on the sidelines of the ongoing COP28 at
Dubai. The first three ranks in the ‘very high’ performance category
remained vacant.
👉 About
◎ An Annual Report ➔ The CCPI, an annual report
that has been prepared by Germanwatch, the New
Climate Institute and the Climate Action Network
since 2005 with the involvement of nearly 450
climate and energy experts.
◎ Transparency Enabler ➔ The CCPI is an instrument
to enable transparency in national and international
climate politics.
◎ Framework Used ➔ The CCPI uses a standardized framework to compare the

climate performance of 63 countries and the EU, which together account for over
90% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
◎ Assessment ➔
○ The CCPI assesses each country’s performance in four categories:
○ Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions (40%), Renewable Energy(20%), Energy
Use(20%), Climate Policy (20%).
◎ On the Basis of Actions ➔ The analysis also reports on the extent to which each
country is taking actions in the areas of emissions, renewable energy and energy
use in order to achieve the climate goals set in Paris.
◎ Top Positions Holder ➔
Country Score
Denmark (4th) 75.59 Percent
Estonia (5th) 72.07 Percent
Philippines (6th) 70.70 Percent
◎ India’s Performance ➔
◎ Improvement in Ranking: India has been ranked seventh in climate performance
during 2022, which showed an improvement of one spot over last year’s
performance (ranked eighth).
◎ Effective Ranking: India is effectively at fourth position, as the first three ranks in
the ‘very high’ performance category remained vacant.
◎ Achieved Score: 70.25 Percent

◎ Last year, India scored 67.35 Percent.
Index Rank
GHG Emissions 9th (India is on track to meet a

benchmark of well below 2°C)
Energy Use 10th (a low per capita benchmark)
Climate Policy 10th
Renewable Energy 37th (barely remaining within the ‘high’

performance category)
👉 Performance of BASIC Group:

◎ BASIC Countries ➔ It is an International Grouping formed by four newly
industrialized countries Brazil, South Africa, India and China.
◎ These nations signed an agreement on 28th November 2009, which resulted in its
formation.
◎ Besides India, other members of the group have also done reasonably well in the
assessment.
○ China: 51st- Retained the same position
○ Brazil: 23rd- Improved 15 positions
◎ South Africa: 45th- Slipped one position
Practice Question
The term “Article 99 of the UN Charter” is often mentioned in the news in the context
of:
A. Maintenance of International peace and security.

B. Abatement of the chemical and biological pollution
C. Coordination for environment and climate change
D. Universal agreement towards space science projects
Article 99 of the UN Charter
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has invoked Article 99
of the UN Charter in a bid to establish a ceasefire amid Israel’s ongoing
military attacks on the Gaza Strip, particularly in its southern region.
👉 About
● Article 99 states ➔ “The Secretary-General
may bring to the attention of the Security
Council any matter which in his opinion may
threaten the maintenance of international
peace and security.”
● It is seen as a discretionary power.
◎ UNSC Obligation ➔ According to the UN, the President of the Security Council is
obliged to call a meeting of the Council if the Secretary-General brings to the
attention of the Council any matter under Article 99.
👉 When has Article 99 been invoked in the past?

◎ 1960 ➔ In the wake of the Congo Crisis, Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld
invoked Article 99 to address the tumultuous situation following Belgium's
withdrawal and the subsequent internal conflict.
◎ 1971 ➔ During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Secretary-General U Thant
invoked it to bring attention to the humanitarian crisis and urge international
action.
◎ 1979 ➔ Responding to the Iranian Revolution and hostage crisis, Secretary-

General Kurt Waldheim invoked Article 99 to emphasize the gravity of the
situation and the need for peaceful resolution.
◎ 1989 ➔ In light of the ongoing Lebanese Civil War and the kidnapping of
hostages, Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar invoked Article 99 to highlight
the need for international support and engagement.
◎ Could the invocation impact the conflict? ➔
○ The UAE proposed a UN resolution based on this letter, demanding an
“immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza.
○ To be adopted, a resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes
by the five permanent members – the United States, Russia, China, France or
Britain
○ However, it is unlikely that the vote will see permanent members’
unanimous support. The US and Britain have expressed support for Israel’s
military actions since October 7.
👉 UNSC:
◎ Permanent Members of the UNSC ➔ The UNSC comprises five permanent
members – the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China and Russia –
and 10 non-permanent members appointed for specific periods.
◎ Rotational Leadership ➔ On a rotational basis, each of these 15 countries holds
the presidency for a month.
◎ Current Chair ➔ Ecuador is the President for December 2023.
👉 UN- Secretary General:

◎ The United Nations Secretary-General is the chief administrative officer of the
organization and plays a vital role in international peace and cooperation.
◎ The current Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres of Portugal is the Ninth
occupant in the Office.
Asiatic Lions -> IUCN: Vulnerable.
Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) -> prepared by UNEP.
Private Member Bill -> introduced by a member of the House who is not a
minister.
Seychelles -> Location - Pacific Ocean.
DRESS Syndrome-> severe allergic reaction caused by some medications.
UNSC -> India is the President for December 2023.

Practice Question
Consider the following statements:
1. Monetary Policy aims to maintain price stability while keeping in mind the
objective of growth.
2. The Repo Rate is the interest rate at which the RBI provides overnight liquidity to
banks without any limits.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following:
1. It is a rare genetic disorder primarily caused by a deficiency of the Human growth

hormone.
2. It affects both skeletal and smooth muscles.
3. It can affect the heart muscles leading to complications like chest pain.
How many of the above statements are correct with respect to Pompe Disease?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
Which of the following can be used in the production of Ethanol?
1. Sugarcane juice
2. Sugar syrup
3. B-molasses

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Practice Question
◎ Recently, the government banned the use of ‘sugarcane juice and sugar syrup’ for
ethanol production in the 2023-24 supply year in order to maintain adequate
sugar availability for domestic consumption and to keep prices under check.
◎ However, the government has allowed the use of ‘B-molasses’ for ethanol
production in 2023-24.
◎ The decision by the ministry comes in the backdrop of an estimated fall in sugar
production in the 2023-24 marketing year (October-September).
◎ Most of the fuel ethanol produced around the world is made by fermenting the
sugar in the starches of grains such as corn, sorghum, and barley, and the sugar in
sugar cane and sugar beets. Denaturants are added to ethanol to make fuel
ethanol undrinkable.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
12-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
12-December-2023
Article 370
Recently, Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y
Chandrachud unanimously upheld the Central government’s 2019 decision
to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution which conferred special status
on the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
👉 About
• The constitution bench of the Supreme Court has
pronounced its verdict on a batch of petitions
challenging the abrogation of Article 370 and
bifurcation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and
Kashmir into two Union territories.
• The Supreme Court in a 5-0 unanimous ruling
upheld the Centre’s abrogation of Article 370 of
the Constitution on Monday
PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Article 370
👉 Conclusions
• Court Need Not Adjudicate On Validity Of President's Rule

• Every Decision Of the Union When the State Is Under the President's Rule Cannot
Be Challenged
• Jammu and Kashmir Did Not Retain An Element Of Sovereignty When It Joined
the Union of India
• Article 370 Is A Temporary Provision
• Concurrence of State Government Not Required To Apply All Provisions Of
Constitution of India To J&K By Article 370(1)(d)
• Validity of J&K Reorganisation Act 2019 Not Necessary To Be Adjudicated Upon,
Reorganisation Of Ladakh Valid
• Statehood Of J&K To Be Restored At Earliest
• Constitution Of A Truth And Reconciliation Committee
Article 370
• The Supreme Court also directed restoration of statehood "at the earliest" as well
as elections to the assembly by September 30 next year.
• "We direct that steps shall be taken by the Election Commission of India to
conduct elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir constituted
under Section 14 of the Reorganisation Act by September 30, 2024.
• Restoration of statehood shall take place at the earliest and as soon as possible,"
the CJI said.
As per the data from the Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE), PM Vishwakarma Scheme has received over 21
lakh applications in the two and half months from its launch.
👉 About
◎ Aim ➔ It aims to improve the quality and reach
of the products and services of artisans and
craftsmen to ensure that they are integrated into
the domestic and global value chains with high-
value products.
◎ Coverage ➔ 18 types of traditional trades will be covered under the scheme

initially for providing benefits to the people engaged in these trades ( such as
Carpenter, Cobbler, Boat Maker, Mason, Armourer, Blacksmith, Basket/Mat/Broom
Maker/Coir Weaver, Hammer & Tool Kit Maker).
◎ Implementation ➔ The scheme will be implemented as a Central Sector Scheme,
with an initial outlay of Rs 13,000 crore.
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ MoMSME will be the Nodal Ministry for the Scheme.
○ Cojointly Implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises (MoMSME), the Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Department of Financial Services (DFS),
Ministry of Finance (MoF), Government of India.
○ The workers will be registered at Common Service Centres, in the biometric-
based portal for free.
◎ Outcome ➔ The Scheme will help to enhance the skills of the workers and provide
access to formal credit through lead banks of the area.
👉 Benefits under PM Vishwakarma:
◎ Recognition ➔ PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card: A unique digital number
shall be created and reflected on the certificate and the ID Card. The certificate
shall enable the applicant’s recognition as a Vishwakarma and shall make him/her
eligible to avail all the benefits under the Scheme.
◎ Skill Upgradation ➔ Aimed at enhancing the capabilities of traditional artisans
and craftspeople, who have been working with hands and traditional tools for
generations. This intervention consists of three components: Skill Assessment,
Basic Training and Advanced Training. Basic Training of 5-7 days and Advanced
Training of 15 days or more, with a stipend of Rs. 500 per day
◎ Toolkit Incentive ➔ Incentive of upto Rs. 15,000 will be provided to the beneficiary after Skill
Assessment at the start of Basic Training. The incentive will be disbursed to the beneficiaries
through e-RUPI/ e-vouchers which can be utilized at designated centres to procure improved
toolkits.
◎ Credit Support ➔ Access to affordable credit under this Scheme will be facilitated. The
beneficiary must have undergone Skill Assessment and completed Basic Training. Collateral-
free ‘Enterprise Development Loans’ of up to Rs. 3 lakh in two tranches of Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 2
lakh with tenures of 18 months and 30 month
◎ Incentive for Digital Transactions ➔ Incentivize digital transactions undertaken by the
artisans and craftspeople through cashbacks. The online transaction trail so created is
expected to enhance the credit score of the artisans.
◎ Marketing Support ➔ Marketing support in the form of quality certification, branding,
advertising, publicity and other marketing activities would be extended to the beneficiaries
to improve their linkage to value chain of MSMEs and established companies.
◎ Implementation Mechanism ➔
◎ There will be a three – tier verification and approval process for the registration of
beneficiaries;
○ Stage 1: Verification at Gram Panchayat or ULB Level.
○ Stage 2: Vetting and Recommendation by the District Implementation
Committee.
○ Stage 3: Approval by the Screening Committee (chaired by an officer of the
Office of DC-MSME along with State Lead Bank Manager and representatives
of MSDE)
75th Anniversary
India’sof Universal
Green Declaration
Hydrogen of Human Rights
Partnerships
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights recently marked its 75th
anniversary.
👉 About
● Human Rights Day is celebrated on December 10
every year to commemorate the 1948 adoption
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(UDHR) by the United Nations General
Assembly.
● The theme for Human Rights Day 2023 is
"Freedom, Equality and Justice for All“.
75th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights
👉 About Human Rights:

◎ Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex,
nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status.
◎ Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture,
freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more.
◎ Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination.
👉 What is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights(UDHR)?

◎ Genesis ➔ It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10
December 1948 as a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations.
◎ About: The declaration consists of a preamble and 30 articles outlining

fundamental rights and freedoms.
◎ Significance: It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be
universally protected and it has been translated into over 500 languages.
👉 Achievements of UDHR:
◎ Guiding Principles for nations: Although the declaration isn't a treaty and isn't
legally binding, many nations have adopted its guiding principles into their legal
systems’
○ They are recognised as the cornerstone of international human rights law.
◎ Inspiration for human rights treaties ➔ It served as an inspiration and a stepping

stone for over 70 human rights treaties at the international and regional levels.
○ It inspired movements against racism, LGBTIQ+ problems, decolonization,
and for the anti-apartheid movement as well as freedom fighters worldwide.
Thiruvalluvar statue Inaugurated in France
The Prime Minister said that Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France is a
beautiful testament to shared cultural bonds between France and India.
👉 About
● Thiruvalluvar commonly known as Valluvar was
an Indian poet and philosopher.
● Thiruvalluvar stands tall as a symbol of wisdom
and knowledge.
● He is the author of the Tirukkuṟaḷ which is a
collection of couplets on ethics, political and
economic matters, and love.
◎ Tirukkural is an all-inclusive ethical which focuses on the avoidance of killing and

the avoidance of falsehood.
◎ Its 133 sections of 10 couplets each are divided into three books: aram (virtue),
porul (government and society), and kamam (love).
◎ Social Significance Of Tiruvalluvar ➔
○ Tiruvalluvar temple : Tiruvalluvar temple was constructed in the early 16th
century at Mylapore, Chennai which is a part of the Ekambareswarar temple
complex.
○ Temple memorial : One of Asia's largest auditoriums is located in Valluvar
Kotam, a temple-memorial constructed in Chennai in 1976.
○ Statue : Kanyakumari also has a 133-foot-tall statue of Thiruvalluvar.
👉 About Sangam Literature:

◎ Sangam literature is the earliest writings in the Tamil language in Madurai, India,
from the 1st to the 4th century CE.
◎ The Tolkappiyam, a book of grammar and rhetoric, and eight anthologies
(Ettuttokai) of poetry were compiled—Ainkurunuru, Kuruntokai, Narrinai,
Akananuru, Kalittokai, Patirruppattu, Purananuru, and Paripatal. A ninth
anthology, Pattupattu, consists of 10 idylls that present a picture of early Tamil
life.
Eastern
India’s Green Zonal Council
Recently , the Union Home Minister presided over the 26th Eastern Zonal
Council(EZC) meeting held at Patna, Bihar. Participants of EZC: States of
Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal.
👉 About
● Zonal councils are statutory bodies formed
under States Reorganisation Act 1956.
● Classification of zonal councils ➔
● The Northern Zonal Council : It comprises
States of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu &
Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, National Capital
Territory of Delhi and Union Territory of
Chandigarh.
Eastern Zonal Council
○ The Central Zonal Council : It comprises States of Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand,
Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
○ The Eastern Zonal Council : It comprises States of Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa,
and West Bengal.
○ The Western Zonal Council : It comprises States of Goa, Gujarat,
Maharashtra and the Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar
Haveli.
○ The Southern Zonal Council : States of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala,
Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
◎ Composition Of Zonal Councils ➔
○ Chairman: The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each of these
Councils.
○ Vice Chairman: The Chief Ministers of the States included in each zone act as
Vice-Chairman of the Zonal Council for that zone by rotation, each holding
office for a period of one year at a time.
○ Members: Chief Minister and two other Ministers as nominated by the
Governor from each of the States and two members from Union Territories
included in the zone.
👉 About North Eastern Council ( NEC):

◎ The NEC is the nodal agency for the economic and social development of the
North Eastern Region which consists of the eight States:
○ Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim
and Tripura.
◎ Genesis ➔ The NEC was constituted as a statutory advisory body under the North
Eastern Council Act 1971 for the rapid development of the Region.
◎ Nodal Ministry: It falls under the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern
Region.
◎ Composition ➔ The Council comprises Governors and Chief Ministers of
constituent States and three members nominated by the President.
○ The Union Home Minister is ex-officio Chairman and the Minister of State(IC)
Department of North East Region is the ex-officio Vice-Chairman of the NEC.
👉 Special Category Status?

◎ It was introduced in 1969 on the recommendations of the Fifth Finance
Commission.
◎ SCS is a classification given by the Centre to assist development of states that face
geographical and socio-economic disadvantages. (Constitution does not make a
provision for SCS).
◎ Indicator for Special Category Status ➔
○ International border proximity,
○ Hilly terrain,
○ Economic disparities.
○ Sizable tribal population and
○ Infrastructural backwardness.
👉 State with Special Category Status

◎ Eleven States ➔ Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya,
Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Uttarakhand and Telangana.
○ Telangana, the newest State of India, was accorded the status as it was
carved out of another State — Andhra Pradesh.
👉 Ninth Schedule:
◎ The Ninth Schedule, which was incorporated in 1951 by the First Amendment to
the Constitution to protect land reforms laws
◎ The Ninth Schedule includes a list of Central and State laws which cannot be
challenged in courts.
◎ However, Supreme Court in I R Coelho v. State of Tamil Nadu (2007) said that any
law included in Ninth Schedule after 24th April 1973 must be examined under
Articles 14, 19, and 21
PM Vishwakarma Scheme -> implemented as a Central sponsored scheme.
Zonal councils -> Constitutional body.
Human Rights Day -> theme for Human Rights Day 2023 is "Freedom,
Equality and Justice for All“.
Asiatic Lions -> IUCN: Vulnerable.
Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) -> prepared by UNEP.
Private Member Bill -> introduced by a member of the House who is not a
minister.
Practice Question
Which of the following features are correct with respect to the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights (UDHR)?
1. It is a legally binding document.

2. It enshrines the rights to freedom of religion; to freedom of opinion and
expression; and to freedom of peaceful assembly.
3. It consists of a preamble and 30 articles setting out fundamental rights and
freedoms.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Practice Question
With reference to YUVAi-Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI, consider the following
statements:
1. It is a collaborative initiative of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
2. It aims to enable school students across the nation with Artificial Intelligence
skills.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following statements:
1. Monetary Policy aims to maintain price stability while keeping in mind the
objective of growth.
2. The Repo Rate is the interest rate at which the RBI provides overnight liquidity to
banks without any limits.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Monetary Policy is the set of actions by which the monetary authority of a
country (RBI in India) controls the creation and supply of money in the economy.
The monetary policy framework in India has evolved over the years.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: The primary objective of the monetary policy is to
maintain price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth. Price
stability is a necessary precondition to sustainable growth. A new “Monetary
Policy Framework” Agreement was signed between the Government of India and
RBI in Feb 2015.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: Repo Rate is the interest rate at which the RBI provides
overnight liquidity up to a certain limit (0.25% of their net demand and time
liabilities (NDTL) ) to banks against the collateral of government and other
approved securities under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF).
◎ Repo is a short form of "Repurchase Agreement".
◎ The Repo Rate is also called the “Policy Rate”.
Practice Question
Consider the following:
1. It is a rare genetic disorder primarily caused by a deficiency of the Human growth

hormone.
2. It affects both skeletal and smooth muscles.
3. It can affect the heart muscles leading to complications like chest pain.
How many of the above statements are correct with respect to Pompe Disease?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Recently, India’s first Pompe disease patient passed away after battling the
disease.
👉 About
● Also known as Glycogen Storage Disease Type II,
is a rare genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of
the enzyme Acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA).
● GAA ➔ This enzyme is crucial for breaking down
glycogen into glucose within the lysosomes of
cells.
◎ Prevalence ➔ Its prevalence estimates range from 1 in 40,000 to 1 in 300,000

births. It occurs across diverse ethnicities and populations with varying ages of
onset and severity.
◎ Symptoms of Pompe Disease ➔
○ Muscle Weakness: Progressive muscle weakness affects both skeletal and
smooth muscles, leading to difficulties in mobility and daily activities.
○ Motor Skill Delay: Children with the disease may experience delays in
achieving motor skills, such as sitting, crawling, and walking.
○ Degenerative Impact on Bones: Prolonged muscle weakness and reduced
mobility can degenerate bones, leading to joint contractures and skeletal
deformities.
○ Respiratory Complications: Due to the weakening of respiratory muscles,
patients may experience shortness of breath, respiratory infections, and
even respiratory failure.
○ Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: It is characterized by the thickening of the
heart muscle walls. This can lead to impaired heart functions and
cardiovascular symptoms.
◎ Curability ➔ While there is currently no cure for Pompe disease, there are
treatment options available to manage symptoms and improve the patient’s
quality of life.
○ Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) is a standard treatment, involving the
infusion of the missing enzyme to alleviate glycogen buildup.
👉 About Rare Diseases:

◎ Rare Diseases ➔ They are characterized by a wide diversity of symptoms and
signs that vary not only from disease to disease but also from patient to patient
suffering from the same disease.
◎ Major Problems ➔
○ Due to the low prevalence, medical expertise is rare, knowledge is scarce,
care offerings inadequate and research limited.
○ Rare disease patients are the orphans of health systems, often denied
diagnosis, treatment, and the benefits of research.
○ Rare diseases not only affect the person diagnosed, but they also impact
families, friends, caretakers and society as a whole.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
13-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
13-December-2023
Global Partnership on AI
The Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence started its three day summit
in New Delhi; India will be the lead chair for the GPAI in 2024
👉 About
• An international Initiative: To guide
the responsible development and use
of artificial intelligence (AI) in a
manner that respects human rights
and the shared democratic values of
its members.
Global Partnership on AI
• Formation: The Global Partnership for Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) was formed on June 15, 2020,
and currently comprises 29 members, including the US, the UK, EU, Australia, Canada, France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and Singapore
• India had in 2020 joined the group as a founding member.
• China is not a member
• Aim: GPAI is a multi-stakeholder initiative that aims to bridge the gap between theory and
practice on AI by supporting cutting-edge research and applied activities on AI-related priorities.
• Collaboration and Cooperation: Built around a shared commitment to the OECD
Recommendation on Artificial Intelligence, GPAI brings together engaged minds and
experts from science, industry, civil society, governments, international organizations, and
academia to foster international cooperation.
◎ Objectives ➔
○ To promote responsible evolution of AI
○ Guide the responsible development and
○ Use of AI, grounded in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation, and economic growth.
EU ‘historic’ deal
European Union reached the world's first set of comprehensive laws to
regulate the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
👉 About
● The EU becomes the very first continent to set clear
rules for the use of AI.
● The European Parliament will now vote on the
proposed AI Act early next year, and a legislation is
likely to come into force by 2025.
👉 EU Framework:
◎ The EU Framework ➔ Divides AI use into 4 Risk Classes:
○ Banning Applications: Some applications will be largely banned, including the
deployment of facial recognition on a mass-scale, with some exemptions for
law enforcement.
○ AI applications focused on behavioral control will be also banned
○ High risk applications: High risk applications such as the use of AI tools for
self-driving cars will be allowed, but subject to certification and an explicit
provision for the backend techniques to be made open to public scrutiny.
○ Medium risk category: eg: AI chatbots, can be deployed without restrictions,
but with detailed documentation of the tech know-how and user
transparency.
○ Limited risk category: To comply with minimal transparency requirements
that would allow users to make informed decisions.
○ Safeguards ➔
○ Adoption by law enforcement agencies: Governments can only use real-time
biometric surveillance in public areas only when there are serious threats
involved, such as terrorist attacks.
○ Consumers rights: Consumers are empowered to file a complaint against any
perceived violations.
Significance
◎ Drive economic innovation ➔ It will act as a launch pad for EU start-ups and
researchers to lead the global AI race.
◎ Transparency and accountability ➔ The AI Act would help the development of

technology that does not threaten people’s safety and rights.
◎ It will act as a template and model law for other countries to follow.
Bletchley Declaration
Recently the “Bletchley Declaration” was published and agreed upon by the
European Union and 28 countries including India, the United States and
China.
👉 About
◎ Summit ➔ The 2-day summit opened at Britain’s
World War II code-breaking centre in Bletchley
Park, United Kingdom.
◎ Aim ➔ Boosting global efforts to cooperate on
artificial intelligence (AI) safety.
◎ Agenda ➔ Focused on identifying risks of shared concern and building the

scientific understanding of them, and also building cross-country policies to
mitigate them.
◎ Nations ➔ To have stated a shared responsibility to address AI risks and advance
vital international collaboration on frontier AI safety and research.
Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI (YUVAi)
YUVAi-Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI’ is set to be prominently featured
at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit.
👉 About YUVA-i
◎ It is a collaborative initiative of the National e-
Governance Division - Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology (MeitY) and Intel India.
◎ It is designed to equip the youth with essential AI
skills and commitment to enabling a future-ready
workforce.
👉 Features of the scheme:

◎ Launch year ➔. 2020
◎ Aims ➔
○ Skills :Bridging skills gap,
○ Digital literacy :build digital readiness among the next-generation, and
○ Inclusivity: continue the momentum of the inclusive and collaborative AI
Skilling program.
◎ ‘YUVAi’ will help in fostering a deeper understanding of AI, to equip school
students from classes 8th to 12th across the nation with AI skills, and empower
them to become human-centric designers and users of AI.
◎ Objectives of the scheme: The objectives of YUVAi are to ➔

○ Foster a deeper understanding of AI-tech and social skills
○ Enable youth to develop AI-enabled solutions as a sign of achievement
○ Empower youth to become human-centric designers and users of AI
Practice Question
With reference to YUVAi-Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI, consider the following
statements:
1. It is a collaborative initiative of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
2. It aims to enable school students across the nation with Artificial Intelligence
skills.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: YUVAi-Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI’- a
collaborative initiative of National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of
Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India and Intel
India. It is set to be prominently featured at the upcoming Global Partnership on
Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit. This programme is designed to equip the
youth with essential AI skills.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: YUVAi aims to foster a deeper understanding of AI, to

enable school students from class 8 to 12 across the nation with AI skills and to
empower them to become human-centric designers and users of AI.
Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Voice of Youth Workshop
Recently, the Prime Minister addressed the nation in the ‘Viksit
Bharat@2047:Voice of Youth workshop and urged citizens to pledge,
‘Whatever I do, should be for a developed India.’
👉 About
● He also stressed on Jan Bhagidari (citizen
Participation) as a mantra to accomplish the dream
of a developed nation within the Amritkal period
ahead of us.
● Integration of Youngster: Viksit Bharat @ 2047 ➔
The Voice of Youth initiative aims to integrate our
youngsters towards building a developed India.
◎ It will provide a platform to the country's youth to contribute ideas to the vision
of Viksit Bharat @2047.
◎ Other Initiatives under Viksit Bharat ➔ the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’, which
aims to generate awareness and saturation of the flagship government schemes.
👉 About Viksit Bharat 2047:

◎ Vision of Developed Nation ➔ Viksit Bharat @2047 is the vision to make India a
developed nation by 2047, the 100th year of independence.
○ The vision encompasses various aspects of development, including economic
growth, social progress, environmental sustainability, and good governance.
◎ Task Group ➔ The Sectoral Group of Secretaries (GoS) has been tasked to
prepare a vision document for respective sectors after extensive stakeholders
consulted with the “whole of the government” and “whole of the country”
approach.
◎ The vision document of Viksit Bharat 2047 is expected to be released by the end
of the year 2023 or the beginning of the next year.
👉 What are the targets for Developed India:
◎ The proposed measures should boost India’s gross domestic product (GDP) to
$6.69 trillion in 2030, $16.13 trillion by 2040, and $29.02 trillion by 2047.
◎ The projections for per capita income at current prices, based on the blueprint,
are $4,418 by 2030, $10,021 by 2040, and $17,590 by 2047.
◎ That means, the present per capita income of about Rs 2 lakhs, will become about
Rs 14.9 Lakhs by 2047.
◎ Exports targets are $1.58 trillion by value in 2030, $4.56 trillion by 2040, and
$8.67 trillion by 2047.
10 years of POSH Act, 2013
POSH Act was notified and implemented on 9th Dec 2013. The Act has
completed 10 years since then.
👉 About
◎ Objective ➔ To provide protection against sexual
harassment of women in their workplace, public
or private, to ensure gender equality, right to
dignity and a favourable working environment.
◎ It gave legislative backing to Vishaka Guidelines.
👉 Provisions of POSH Act

◎ Definition ➔ The Act defines Sexual Harassment at work, and creates institutional
mechanism for resolution of the complaint.
◎ Coverage ➔ The Act covers, both public and private sector, organized and
unorganized sector, irrespective of her age or employment status.
◎ Employer ➔ The definition of employer and workplace is also wide to cover both
traditional office setup and contemporary setup like gig working are included in the
Act.
◎ ICC ➔ Each employer is required to set up an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at
each office or branch with 10 or more employees.
◎ Enquiry ➔ The committee is required to complete the enquiry against any complaints
received within a period of 90 days. The enquiry process should be confidential.
◎ Awareness ➔ The Act also requires the employers to develop policies against
sexual misconduct and spread awareness about the ICC.
◎ Penalties ➔ Penalties have been prescribed in case of non-compliance, with a fine
up to Rs 50,000. The Act also has penal provisions to ensure safeguards against
false or malicious complaints.
◎ Tackling Fake Complaints ➔ Section 14 of the Act deals with punishment for false
or malicious complaints and false evidence.
👉 What has SC told about POSH?

◎ In Oct 2023, SC issued a issued a number of directions to ensure effective
implementation of the provisions of POSH Act 2013
◎ Appointment of ‘District Officer’ ➔ SC has underlined that it is mandatory for the

states and union territories to appoint a ‘District Officer’ as per section 5 of the
Act.
◎ Time-Bound Assessment for the Formation of Local Committees and Internal
Committees ➔ The Union of India, State Governments, and Union Territories must
conduct a time-bound assessment to verify if all relevant ministries, departments,
government organizations, authorities, public sector undertakings, institutions,
bodies, etc., have constituted Local Committees (“LCs”)/ Internal Committees
(“ICs”), as the case may be.
◎ Capacity Building Initiatives ➔ Regular orientation programs, workshops,
seminars, and awareness campaigns should be conducted by authorities,
managements, and employers to enhance the skills of LCs/ ICs members
Bletchely Declaration -> Related to Blockchain.
Presidio Principles -> Related to Artificial Intelligence.
Vishaka Guidelines -> For child protection.

PM Vishwakarma Scheme -> implemented as a Central sponsored scheme.
Zonal councils -> Constitutional body.
Human Rights Day -> theme for Human Rights Day 2023 is "Freedom,
Equality and Justice for All“.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Zonal Councils:
1. These are the constitutional bodies established under the constitution of India in
1946.
2. Chief Ministers of the states of the council serve as a chairman of the council on a
rotational basis.
3. The council aims to the promotion of Cooperative Federalism.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), consider the following
statements:
1. It focuses on improving governance to enhance the quality of life of citizens in the

most difficult and relatively underdeveloped blocks of India.
2. The blocks from each district of India have been included in this programme.
3. The ranking of the blocks is calculated based on their achievement in the Key
Performance Indicators.
How many of the above statements are correct?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
Which of the following features are correct with respect to the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights (UDHR)?
1. It is a legally binding document.

2. It enshrines the rights to freedom of religion; to freedom of opinion and
expression; and to freedom of peaceful assembly.
3. It consists of a preamble and 30 articles setting out fundamental rights and
freedoms.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Practice Question
◎ The Universal Declaration is a relatively compact document, the declaration
consists of a preamble and 30 articles setting out fundamental rights and
freedoms. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
◎ The declaration says that:
• All are equal before the law
• Everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing by an independent and
impartial tribunal.
• Everyone has the right to seek and enjoy in other countries asylum from
persecution.
◎ It enshrines the rights to freedom of religion; to freedom of opinion and
expression; and to freedom of peaceful assembly. And it says that everyone has
the right to education. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
◎ The declaration isn’t a treaty and isn’t legally binding in itself, but the principles it
sets out have been incorporated into many countries’ laws and it is viewed as the
basis for international human rights law. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
14-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
14-December-2023
India votes in favor of UNGA resolution demanding immediate ceasefire in
Gaza
Gaza
India votes in favor of the demand of an immediate humanitarian ceasefire
in the Israel-Hamas conflict in a resolution introduced at the UN General
Assembly.
👉 About
◎ Introduced By ➔ Egypt, at an Emergency Special
Session of UNGA.
◎ Demanded ➔
○ An immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza
○ All parties comply with their obligations
under international law, "notably with regard
to the protection of civilians."
Gaza
◎ Immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring
humanitarian access.
👉 Israel- Hamas Conflict:

◎ Hamas (Palestinian politically armed group operating in Gaza strip) launched the
present offensive (7 october 2023) against Israel in their long standing Israel-
Palestine conflict.
◎ Israel declared a ‘State of War’ and in response launched ‘operation Iron Swords’
against Hamas operation Al- Aqsa flood.
Gaza
👉 United Nations General Assembly(UNGA)
◎ UNGA is the main policy-making organ of the Organization.
◎ Role ➔ It provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum
of international issues covered by the United Nations Charter.
○ It discusses specific issues through dedicated agenda items or sub-items,
which lead to the adoption of resolutions.
◎ Member states ➔ 193 States having equal vote.
◎ Functions ➔
○ appointing the Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security
Council
○ electing the non-permanent members of the Security Council
○ approving the UN budget
White Phosphorous bombs
According to Media Reports, the USA is concerned with Israel’s use of
White Phosphorus in its offensive against Hamas and Hezbollah.
👉 About
● It is a chemical substance dispersed in artillery
shells, bombs, rockets, or mortars, used
primarily to obscure military operations on the
ground.
● It causes serious injury and death when it
comes into contact with the skin or inhaled or is
swallowed.
◎ White phosphorus is a chemical substance with characteristics often likened to wax,

typically appearing yellowish or colourless
◎ Its odour resembles garlic
◎ It possesses the remarkable property of igniting instantly upon contact with oxygen
◎ Alarming capacity to initiate fires that burn fiercely and spread quickly on the ground.
◎ Once ignited, white phosphorus proves extremely resistant to extinguishing efforts,
and it adheres tenaciously to various surfaces, including skin and clothing
◎ These characteristics render it particularly hazardous to civilian populations, as it can
cause deep burns, penetrating even through bone, and has been known to reignite
after initial treatment.
◎ While white phosphorus itself is not classified as a chemical weapon under the Chemical
Weapons Convention, its incendiary nature has led to attempts to regulate its use more
effectively
◎ International law intended to protect civilians, prevent indiscriminate harm during conflicts
◎ The use of white phosphorus in warfare is subject to regulations outlined in Protocol III to
the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW)
◎ This protocol, signed in Geneva in 1980 and enforced since 1983, places restrictions on
the use of incendiary weapons, including those containing white phosphorus
◎ The protocol including countries such as France, the United States, Israel, Palestine,
India, Pakistan, China, Russia, and Ukraine, is aimed at minimizing the suffering caused
by such weapons.
Global-River
India’s Cities Alliance
Green Hydrogen Partnerships
The Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA), led by the National Mission for
Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, was launched at
COP28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai.
👉 About
● A Memorandum of Common Purpose (MoCP) ➔ A
Memorandum of Common Purpose (MoCP) has
been signed by the National Mission for Clean
Ganga (NMCG) on behalf of River Cities Alliance
(RCA) and the Mississippi River Cities and Towns
Initiative (MRCTI), which represents 124 cities and
towns in the United States along the banks of the
Mississippi River.
Global-River Cities Alliance
◎ Support from International Organisations ➔ Multilateral funding agencies such as

the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment
Bank have also pledged their support for the initiative.
👉 About Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA):

◎ Global River Cities Alliance is a unique alliance covering 275+ global river-cities in
11 countries, international funding agencies and knowledge management
partners and is first of its kind in the world.
◎ The GRCA is modeled on the lines of India’s River Cities Alliance established by
the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the National Institute of Urban
Affairs (NIUA) in November 2021.
◎ Secretariat ➔ The National Mission for Clean Ganga will take on the role of the
Secretariat of the GRCA to generate the initial momentum of the alliance
activities.
◎ Participants ➔ India, Egypt, Netherlands, Denmark, Ghana, Australia, Bhutan,
Cambodia, Japan and river-cities of:
○ The Hague (Den Haag) from the Netherlands
○ Adelaide from Australia
○ Szolnok of Hungary
○ International funding agencies the World Bank, Asian Development Bank
(ADB), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
👉 River Cities Alliance:

◎ Objective ➔ To foster the sustainable development of river cities.
◎ Collaboration ➔ Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
◎ Themes ➔ Networking, Capacity Building and Technical Support.
◎ Composition ➔ River Cities Alliance started with 30 cities in 2021 and currently as
of 12th December, 2023 it has 143 river cities as members across India
◎ The Alliance is open to all river cities of India. Any river city can join the Alliance
at any time.
◎ Secretariat ➔ The Secretariat of the Alliance is set up at the National Institute for
Urban Affairs (NIUA).
◎ Annual Meeting ➔ DHARA which stands for Driving Holistic Action for Urban
Rivers is the annual meeting of the members of the River Cities Alliance (RCA),
organized by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) in association with
National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).
The Financial Stability Implications of Multifunction Crypto-asset
Intermediaries
In a recent report, the Financial Stability Board (FSB) has highlighted the
gaps in multi-function crypto-asset intermediaries (MCI) operating globally.
👉 About Financial Stability Board

◎ Mandate ➔ FSB is an international body that
monitors the global financial system to ensure
international financial stability.
◎ Collaboration ➔ FSB works jointly with IMF to
study trends and conduct early warning exercises.
◎ Origin ➔ It was established in 2009, after the G20
summit in London, to replace the Financial
Stability Forum.
Intermediaries
◎ Headquarters ➔ Basel, Switzerland.
◎ Board Composition ➔ The board includes all G20 major economies.
◎ Members ➔ 68 member institutions comprising ministries of finance, central
banks, and supervisory and regulatory authorities from all over the world.
👉 What are Multi-Function Crypto-asset intermediaries?

◎ Definition ➔ As per the report, Multi-Function crypto-asset Intermediaries (MCI)
are individual forms or groups of related firms that offer a range of crypto
products and services related to trading.
◎ Examples ➔ Binance, Bitfinex and Coinbase.
Intermediaries
◎ Finances ➔ The funding source for these platforms is the transaction fee generated
in the trading-related activity and from operating a blockchain infrastructure for
which they may collect some transaction validation fee.
👉 Risk Associated with MCI:

◎ Clashing Interests ➔ These MCI have self-issued crypto assets and trade in the
same, leading to a conflict of interest. This impacts market integrity, investor
protection and financial stability.
◎ Market-Related Vulnerabilities ➔ Lack of liquidity and concentrated holdings
coupled with opaque supply and circulation jointly allow the prices of MCI-issued
crypto-assets to be inflated.
Intermediaries
◎ Technological and operational vulnerabilities ➔ MCIs have been a target of cyber-
attacks and a number of them have had funds stolen by hackers in the past.
DeltaIndia’s
ranking for Aspirational
Green Blocks program
NITI Aayog released the 1st Delta Ranking of Aspirational Blocks
program(ABP).
👉 About
● The Delta rankings for the aspirational districts
measure the incremental progress made by
them across the developmental areas of health
and nutrition, education, agriculture and water
resources, financial inclusion and basic
infrastructure.
Delta ranking for Aspirational Blocks program
👉 Key Highlights of Delta Ranking of Aspirational Blocks

program(ABP)
◎ Top Performers ➔
○ Tiriyani Block of Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana
○ Kaushambi block of Kaushambi District, Uttar Pradesh.
◎ Basis of ranking ➔ The ranking of the blocks has been calculated on the basis of
performance of blocks and progress achieved in the Key Performance Indicators
(KPIs) in the month of June, 2023.
◎ Wall of fame ➔ The top rankers of ABP and ADP will be displayed on the Wall
Fall made at NITI Aayog.
👉 Geographical Zones Created for Delta Ranking:

◎ The blocks have also been geographically divided into six zones and two blocks
from each zone have been given rankings.
◎ Zone 1: Hilly and North-eastern States as well as Islands
○ The first and second position went to Amri block, West Karbi Anglong, Assam
and Ngopa block, Saitual Mizoram.
◎ Zone 2: Northern Indian states
○ Harraiya block, Basti, Uttar Pradesh and Virno block, Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh
achieved the first and second spot.
◎ Zone 3: Southern states
○ Maski block, Raichur, Karnataka and Narnoor, Adilabad, Telangana were
declared the top rankers.
◎ Zone 4: Western Indian

○ Sironcha and Aheri blocks in Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra emerged
winners.
◎ Zone 5: Central India
○ Tirla block of Dhar district and Pati block of Barwani District, both in Madhya
Pradesh as winners.
◎ Zone 6: Eastern India
○ Andar, Siwan, Bihar and Ramgarh in Dumka, Jharkhand as the top rankers
👉 Aspirational Block Programme (ABP)

◎ Objective ➔ To enhance the quality of life of citizens in the most difficult and
underdeveloped blocks of India by converging existing schemes, defining
outcomes, and monitoring them on a constant basis.
◎ Number of Blocks ➔ An inter-ministerial committee in consultation with states
had identified 500 blocks from across 27 states and four Union territories.
◎ Key socio-economic indicators (KSIs) ➔
○ Health and nutrition, Education, Agriculture and water resources, Financial
inclusion and skill development, Basic infrastructure and Social
development.
👉 Aspirational District Programme:

◎ Launch ➔ Launched by the Hon’ble PM in January 2018, the Aspirational Districts
Programme (ADP) aims to quickly and effectively transform 112 most under-
developed districts across the country
◎ Objective ➔ To raise the living standards of its citizens and ensure inclusive
growth for all – “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas aur Sabka Vishwas”.
◎ Champions of Change ➔ The performance of the Aspirational Districts are
available in the public domain portal named “Champions of Change” at
championsofchange.gov.in
Practice Question
With reference to the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), consider the following
statements:
1. It focuses on improving governance to enhance the quality of life of citizens in the

most difficult and relatively underdeveloped blocks of India.
2. The blocks from each district of India have been included in this programme.
3. The ranking of the blocks is calculated based on their achievement in the Key
Performance Indicators.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: The Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) was launched
on January 7, 2023. ABP focuses on improving governance to enhance the quality
of life of citizens in the most difficult and relatively underdeveloped blocks of
India.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: 500 blocks from 329 districts across 27 states and 4
Union Territories of India are part of the programme. The Programme strategy is
based on the convergence of existing schemes, defining outcomes, and
monitoring them constantly.
◎ Statement 3 is correct: The ranking of the blocks is calculated based on the
performance of blocks and progress achieved in the Key Performance Indicators.
Ranking the blocks based on KPIs is a core strategy of the Programme based on
the spirit of competitive and cooperative federalism.
◎ This is the first time that the ranking of blocks has been calculated as part of the
Aspirational Blocks Programme.
Financial Stability Board -> established in 2017.
Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) -> Secretariat - National Mission for
Clean Ganga will take on the role of the Secretariat of the GRCA.
White Phosphorus-> Classified as a chemical weapon under the Chemical
Weapons Convention.
Bletchely Declaration -> Related to Blockchain.
Presidio Principles -> Related to Artificial Intelligence.
Vishaka Guidelines -> For child protection.

Practice Question
Consider the following pairs:
Festivals State
1. Makaravilakku Kerala
2. Pedda Panduga Tamil Nadu
3. Thai Pongal Karnataka
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to ‘Arsenic & Metal Removal by Indian Technology (AMRIT)’, consider
the following statements:
1. The technology uses laterite-based arsenic removal filters, to remove arsenic

from water.
2. The purifier has been developed for both the domestic and community levels.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Zonal Councils:
1. These are the constitutional bodies established under the constitution of India in
1946.
2. Chief Ministers of the states of the council serve as a chairman of the council on a
rotational basis.
3. The council aims to the promotion of Cooperative Federalism.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: The Zonal Councils are the statutory (and not the constitutional)
bodies. They are established by an Act of Parliament, that is, the States Reorganisation Act
of 1956. The act divided the country into five zones (Northern, Central, Eastern, Western
and Southern) and provided a zonal council for each zone. While forming these zones,
several factors have been taken into account which include: the natural divisions of the
country, the river systems and means of communication, the cultural and linguistic affinity
and the requirements of economic development, security and law and order.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: Each zonal council consists of the following members:

• Home minister of Central government.
• Chief ministers of all the States in the zone
• Two other ministers from each state in the zone.
• The administrator of each union territory in the zone.
◎ The home minister of the Central government is the common chairman of the five zonal
councils. Each chief minister acts as a vice-chairman of the council by rotation, holding office
Practice Question
◎ Statement 3 is correct: The zonal councils aim at promoting cooperation and

coordination between states, union territories and the Centre i.e. Cooperative
Federalism. They discuss and make recommendations regarding matters like
economic and social planning, linguistic minorities, border disputes, interstate
transport, and so on. They are only deliberative and advisory bodies.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
15-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
15-December-2023
India rejects OIC remark on Article 370 verdict
India rejected the statement issued by the Organization of Islamic
Cooperation (OIC) on the Supreme Court's judgment upholding the 2019
revocation of Article 370 of the Constitution.
👉 Supreme Court Verdict on Article 370

◎ Recently, the Supreme Court has upheld the abrogation
of Article 370 related to Jammu and Kashmir.
◎ The apex court said Article 370 was enacted due to
wartime conditions in the State and was meant to
serve a transitional purpose.
◎ However, the court has observed that restoration of
Statehood and elections should be prioritized.
👉 About Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC):

◎ Purpose ➔ To safeguard the interests of the Muslim world by uniting the collective
voice of the Muslim world.
◎ Second-largest intergovernmental organization in the world after the United
Nations
◎ Formation: It was formed in 1969 following the criminal arson of Al-Aqsa Mosque in
occupied Jerusalem.
◎ Secretariat ➔ Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
◎ Members ➔ 57 Nations.
○ India is not a member of it.
◎ Islāmic Development Bank, a Muslim bank directed toward financing the economic
and social development of members in accordance with the principles of the
Sharīʿah (Islāmic sacred law)
◎ Conceived by the Organization of the Islāmic Conference in 1973, the bank is
headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and formally opened in October 1975
◎ Its member nations are drawn from the ranks of those states belonging to the
Organization of the Islāmic Conference.
Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF)
Officials from the United States, India, and Taiwan gathered for a
cybersecurity workshop under the Global Cooperation and Training
Framework (GCTF).
👉 About
● This was the first GCTF program to be held in
person in India.
● The United Service Institution of India (USI),
Lieutenant General Rajesh Pant, the former
national cyber security coordinator of India,
Taiwan's representative to India, Eric Garcetti, the
US ambassador to India, and Baushuan Ger co-
hosted the event.
👉 About GCTF
◎ Establishment ➔ The GCTF was established in 2015 as a joint initiative between
the United States and Taiwan.
◎ Purpose ➔ To utilize Taiwan’s strengths and expertise to address global issues of
mutual concern.
○ To assist countries in the Indo-Pacific for their capacity-building efforts
through training programs for officials and experts, while enhancing
Taiwan’s multilateral cooperation throughout the region.
◎ Focus Areas ➔ Public Health, Law enforcement cooperation, women’s
empowerment, energy efficiency, e-commerce, cybersecurity, humanitarian
assistance, disaster relief (HA/DR), and media literacy.
◎ Expansion and Partnerships ➔ The full partners (currently Taiwan, the United
States, Japan, and Australia) regularly hold GCTF Joint Committee meetings to
review events of the year and decide on prospective areas of cooperation for the
coming year.
○ Japan became a full partner to this framework in 2019
○ Australia announced its full partnership in 2021.
○ India has not formally joined as a full partner of GCTF.
Women
India’s Green Scientists
Hydrogen Scheme
Partnerships
Under the Women Scientists Scheme ( WOS) , thirteen unemployed women
scientists have benefitted with the assistance of Rs.1.93 crore in the last five
years.
👉 About
● Objective ➔ To provide opportunities to women
scientists and technologists between the ages of
27 and 60 who have taken a break in their careers
but want to return to the mainstream.
Women Scientists Scheme
◎ Eligibility Criteria ➔
○ Employment: Candidates who are involved in regular employment are not
eligible for WOS.
◎ Educational Qualification ➔
○ Women Scientists who have a PG degree in basic Sciences, graduation or PG
degree in professional courses and Ph.D. and have break in career are
eligible for WOS.
○ Pupils who are registered in Ph.D and receiving any fellowship are not
eligible to apply.
◎ Break in Career ➔ Minimum 2 years break is required after a Ph.D award.
◎ Nodal Agency ➔ Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and
Technology.
👉 Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN)

◎ Objective ➔ To address the gender-specific challenges that often result in the
exclusion of well-qualified women from S&T activities, particularly due to
circumstances like career breaks associated with motherhood and family
responsibilities
◎ Holistic approach ➔ The scheme is an holistic approach to address various
challenges faced by women in their scientific journeys through various kinds of
programmes.
○ Women's Instinct for Developing and Ushering in Scientific Heights &
Innovations (WIDUSHI) ➔ It aims to encourage and support senior women
scientists to conduct research in interdisciplinary areas of Science &
Technology.
○ Women International Grant Support (WINGS) ➔ Indian women scientists are
given the chance to do research in international research labs and academic
institutions under the WINGS program.
○ Consolidation of University Research for Innovation and Excellence (CURIE)
➔ Strengthening research infrastructure, increasing research capability, and
creating a supportive atmosphere for women's institutions across the nation
are the primary goals of CURIE.
○ Vigyan Jyoti ➔ In order to attain gender parity across all streams, the Vigyan
Jyoti initiative encourages girls to seek higher education and careers in STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), particularly in fields
where women participate at a low rate.
○ WISE Post-Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF) ➔ It aims at providing
opportunities to women to continue research after Ph.D. in Basic and
Applied Sciences through independent project grants.
○ Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) ➔ The goal of
GATI is to create an indigenous gender equity charter for STEMM (science,
technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine), with an emphasis on
institutional reform.
AKTOCYTE tablets to Transform Cancer care
Scientists from the Department of Atomic Energy and M/s. IDRS Labs
Bengaluru have joined hands to develop Aktocyte tablets for treating pelvic
cancer.
👉 About AKTOCYTE tablets

◎ Uses ➔ The AKTOCYTE tablets have been
effective, particularly in pelvic cancer patients
suffering from radiotherapy-induced Cystitis
(Blood in urine).
○ Further, these tablets have been designed as
a nutraceutical, an adjuvant to cancer
radiotherapy and antioxidant.
◎ Performance ➔ Patients treated with Aktocyte tablets demonstrated an

extraordinary recovery, eliminating the need for surgical removal of the urinary
bladder.
👉 What are Nutraceuticals?

◎ The term “nutraceutical” was coined in 1989 by Stephen DeFelice.
◎ Definition ➔ Nutraceutical products are products derived from food sources that
provide both nutritional and medicinal benefits.
◎ Meaning ➔ The term “nutraceutical” combines the two words “nutrient,” which is
a nourishing food component, and “pharmaceutical,” which is a medical drug
◎ Mechanism ➔ They contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, derived

from a natural source and have physiological benefits and aid in the prevention and
treatment of disease.
◎ Types ➔ Nutraceuticals can be grouped into four categories that are dietary
supplements, functional food, medicinal food, and farmaceuticals.
◎ Examples ➔ Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that support gut health and digestion.;
Green tea extract: Rich in antioxidants and associated with various health benefits.
👉 Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

◎ It is a statutory body under the administration of the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare, Government of India.
◎ It is responsible for setting food standards and ensuring compliance with the
regulations in the manufacture, storage, sales, and distribution of consumable
items.
Amrit Technology For Removal Of Arsenic And Metal Ions From Water
‘AMRIT’ (Arsenic and Metal Removal by Indian Technology) has been

developed by IIT- Madras for the removal of Arsenic and Metal ions from
water.
👉 About AMRIT
● It uses nano-scale iron oxy-hydroxide, which selectively
removes arsenic when water is passed through it.
● The water purifier is developed for both domestic as
well as community levels.
● It is being recommended by the erstwhile ‘Standing
Committee’ of the Department of Drinking Water and
Sanitation for the examination of the best technologies
concerning water and sanitation.
👉 Jal Jeevan Mission

◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Department of Drinking water and Sanitation, Ministry of
Jalshakti.
◎ Mission ➔ A Functional Tap Connection (FHTC) to every rural household by 2024
with water in adequate quantity of prescribed quality made available on a
regular basis.
◎ Implementation ➔ In partnership with states with the government of India
supporting the States by providing technical and financial assistance.
○ Drinking Water is a state subject
○ The responsibility of planning, approval, implementation, operation, and
maintenance of drinking water supply schemes, including those under the Jal
Jeevan Mission, lies with the State/UT Governments.
👉 What are the Harmful Effects of Arsenic in Water?

◎ Long-term exposure to arsenic from drinking-water and food can cause cancer
and skin lesions.
◎ Fresh evidence indicates possible association between intake of contaminated
water to onset of diabetes, hypertension and reproductive disorders.
◎ In utero and early childhood exposure has been linked to negative impacts on
cognitive development and increased deaths in young adults.
Practice Question
With reference to ‘Arsenic & Metal Removal by Indian Technology (AMRIT)’, consider
the following statements:
1. The technology uses laterite-based arsenic removal filters, to remove arsenic

from water.
2. The purifier has been developed for both the domestic and community levels.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Madras has
developed the technology for the removal of Arsenic and Metal ions from water.
The technology uses nano-scale iron oxy-hydroxide, which selectively removes
arsenic when water is passed through it.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: This water purifier has been developed for both domestic
as well as community levels. Also, the technology has been recommended by the
erstwhile ‘Standing Committee’ of the Department of Drinking Water and
Sanitation for the examination of the best technologies concerning water and
sanitation.
AKTOCYTE tablets -> effective, particularly in pelvic cancer patients

suffering from radiotherapy-induced Cystitis.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) -> non-statutory body.
Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) -> India became a full
partner to this framework in 2019.
Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) -> Secretariat - Jeddah, Saudi

Arabia
Financial Stability Board -> established in 2017.
Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) -> Secretariat - National Mission for
Clean Ganga will take on the role of the Secretariat of the GRCA.
White Phosphorus-> Classified as a chemical weapon under the Chemical
Weapons Convention.
Makaravilakku Festival
A project for Sabarimala pilgrims during the Makaravilakku festival was
recognised among the top interventions from across the country for
improving road safety.
👉 About
● Makaravilakku ➔ It is a religious festival of
Kerala, held every year during Makar Sankranti at
the Sabarimala Temple.
● Makara Vilakku Meaning ➔ Makara is the Zodiac
sign of Makara (Capricorn) and Vilakku means
light.
◎ Deeparadhana ➔ It is performed to mark the beginning of Makaravilakku after

which a star is visible to the east of the shrine.
○ This marks the auspicious time of the sun moving from Dakshinayanam
(south) to Utharanayanam (north).
◎ Procession ➔ The celebrations include a procession of the sacred ornaments of
Lord Ayyappan (known as Thiruvabharanam), which is brought in a procession
from Pandalam palace to the temple at Sabarimala.
◎ Ritual ➔ Devotees observe a compulsory 41 days of austerities and fast before
visiting the Ayyappa Swami temple for Makara Vilakku festival.
○ Thousands of devotees of Lord Ayyappa gather at the temple to see light or
flame (which is Makarvilakku) that appears thrice on the Ponnambalamedu
hill.
◎ About Lord Ayyappa (Ayyappa Swami) ➔ He is said to be the son of Lord Shiva
and Mohini, the only female form of Lord Vishnu.
○ Ayyappa Swami is highly regarded and worshiped by devotees all over India.
○ His temple at Sabarimala is a pilgrim site.
Practice Question
Consider the following pairs:
Festivals State
1. Makaravilakku Kerala
2. Pedda Panduga Tamil Nadu
3. Thai Pongal Karnataka
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Pedda Panduga: It is the name of Makar Sankranti and is celebrated in Andhra
Pradesh. Hence, Pair 2 is incorrect.
◎ Thai Pongal: It is a Multiday Hindu harvest festival celebrated by Tamils. Hence,
Pair 3 is incorrect.
Practice Question
With reference to Multifunction Crypto-asset Intermediaries (MCI’s), consider the
1. They are the firms that combine a range of crypto-asset services products, and
functions typically centred around the operation of a trading platform.
2. The MCI’s do not suffer from any vulnerabilities in their functions and operations.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With respect to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List,
1. According to the latest update of the IUCN Red List, freshwater fishes make up
more than half of the world’s known fish species.
2. The first global freshwater fish assessment was released at the COP28 of the UN
climate conference.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
16-December-2023
Procurement Through Government eMarketplace (GeM)
◎ Mandatory Purchase by Government Entities ➔ The purchases through GeM by

Government users have been authorized and made mandatory by the Ministry of
Finance.
Gulf of Oman
👉 About
● It connects the Arabian Sea with the Strait of
Hormuz.
● Bordering country ➔ Oman on the south, United
Arab Emirates on the west and Iran and Pakistan on
the north.
● The Gulf of Oman offers the only entrance from the
Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean into the Persian
Gulf.
Gulf of Oman
◎ It is significant as a shipping route for the oil-producing area around the Persian
Gulf.
◎ Scientists and researchers have confirmed that the Gulf of Oman has one of the
world’s largest “dead zones” measuring approximately 165,000 km2 and these
dead zones are incapable of supporting aquatic flora due to little or no oxygen.
◎ Nearby ports ➔
○ Port of Chabahar, Chabahar, Iran
○ Port Sultan Qaboos, Muttrah, Oman
○ Port of Fujairah, Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
○ Khor Fakkan Container Terminal, Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates
Gulf of Oman
Procurement of goods and services through the Government eMarketplace
(GeM) is expected to reach Rs 3.5 lakh crore by the end of this fiscal year.
👉 About GeM
● About ➔ GeM is a one stop portal to facilitate
online procurement of common use Goods &
Services required by various Government
Departments / Organizations / PSUs.
● Aim ➔ Launched in 2016, it aims to enhance
transparency, efficiency and speed in public
procurement.
● Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Commerce
◎ Mandatory Purchase by Government Entities ➔ The purchases through GeM by

Government users have been authorized and made mandatory by the Ministry of
Finance.
Urgent Need to Control Use of E-Cigarettes
According to the World Health Organisation, urgent action is needed to
control e-cigarettes to protect children, as well as non-smokers and
minimize health harms to the population.
👉 About e-Cigarettes
◎ E-Cigarettes ➔ E-Cigarettes (electronic nicotine delivery
systems (ENDS)) come in many shapes and sizes. Most have
a battery, a heating element, and a place to hold a liquid.
○ It is also known by other names — vapes, e-hookahs,
and e-pipes.
◎ E-Cigarettes Aerosol ➔ E-cigarettes produce an aerosol that
usually contains nicotine flavorings and other chemicals
that help to make the aerosol.
◎ Other Uses ➔ E-cigarettes can be used to deliver marijuana and other drugs.
◎ Regulation of e-Cigarettes in India ➔ Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019.
○ It was enacted to prohibit the production, manufacture, import, export,
transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of electronic
cigarettes.
👉 Health Risks Associated with e-Cigarettes:

◎ E-cigarettes with nicotine are highly addictive and are harmful to health. Whilst
long-term health effects are not fully understood, it has been established that they
generate toxic substances, some of which are known to cause:
◎ Cancer and increase the risk of heart and lung disorders.
◎ A 2018 study found the use of e-cigarette daily was associated with a 79% increase
in heart attack risk after other variables were taken into account.
○ Affect brain development and lead to learning disorders for young people.
○ Fetal exposure to e-cigarettes can adversely affect the development of the
fetus in pregnant women.
Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export,
Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act
👉 About
● It came into force in 2019.
● Objective of Ban ➔ ban on electronic cigarettes was
introduced to protect our younger generation from
a new form of toxic addiction.
Continued…
◎ Definition of E-cigarettes ➔ act defines electronic cigarettes as electronic

devices that heat a substance, which may contain nicotine and other chemicals,
to create vapour for inhalation.
○ These e-cigarettes can also contain different flavours and include all forms
of electronic nicotine delivery systems, heat-not-burn products, e-hookahs,
and other similar devices.
◎ As per the act, all producers, manufacturers, importers, exporters, distributors,
advertisers, transporters, including couriers, social media and shopping
websites, shopkeepers, retailers and others can not directly or indirectly
produce, manufacture, import, export, transport, sell, distribute and store e-
cigarettes, whether as a complete product or any part thereof.
Continued…
◎ Owners of existing stocks of e-cigarettes are bound to declare and deposit these
stocks with the nearest police station after the commencement of the Act
○ It also prohibits advertisement of e-cigarettes.
◎ Punishment ➔ “Offence of production, manufacture, import, export, transport,
sale [including online sale], distribution, storage and advertisement of electronic
cigarettes is cognisable and punishable > For First offence : imprisonment of up
to one year, or a fine of up to one lakh rupees, or both.
◎ Any subsequent offence ➔ imprisonment of up to three years, along with a fine
of up to five lakh rupees.
◎ Provisions on Storage of e-cigarettes ➔
○ No person is allowed to use any place for the storage of any stock of e-
cigarettes.
Continued…
○ Punishment for storage of e-cigarettes ➔ imprisonment of up to six
months, or a fine of up to Rs 50,000 or both.
Non-Renewal of Hydrographic Survey Agreement
Recently, Maldives outlined that it will not renew the Hydrographic Survey
agreement made with India.
👉 About
◎ As per Hydrographic Survey agreement terms, one
party can decide not to renew the current agreement
six months before it expires in June 2024.
◎ The third Joint Hydrographic survey by the Indian
Navy and the Maldives National Defense Force
(MNDF) was carried out by Indian Naval Ship
Investigator (INS Investigator) from January 19 to
February 26, 2023.
Non-Renewal of Hydrographic Survey Agreement
👉 About Hydrographic Survey Agreement:

◎ The hydrographic survey agreement was signed on June 8, 2019, during PM Modi's
visit to the Maldives.
◎ Under the agreement, India was allowed to conduct a comprehensive study of the
island nation’s territorial waters, which includes reefs, lagoons, coastlines, ocean
currents, and tide levels.
◎ Rationale behind non-renewal of Agreement ➔
○ Threat to national security and integrity: It could endanger the country's
national security and integrity by allowing a foreign government access to
sensitive geographical data.
○ Further, it plans to improve its own Military’s capacity with 100 % Maldivian
management to conduct such surveys
IUCN New List of Threatened Species
At the COP28 UN climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has released its latest
update to the IUCN Red List which includes the first global freshwater fish
assessment.
👉 About
● The update highlights the impact of illegal logging
and trade on mahogany.
● Red list: The IUCN Red List comprises 157,190
species out of which 44,016 are threatened with
extinction.
● Four subterranean fishes from Kerala found in
water bodies under the surface are facing the risk
of extinction.
◎ Endangered Category ➔ Kryptoglanis Shajii, Horaglanis Abdulkalami, Pangio Bhujia

◎ Vulnerable category ➔ Aenigmachanna Gollum (snakehead Gollum)
👉 What is a Red List?

◎ Red List ➔ Established in 1964, the International Union for Conservation of
Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species has evolved to become the world’s most
comprehensive information source on the global extinction risk status of animal,
fungus and plant species.
◎ Critical Indicator ➔ The IUCN Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the
world’s biodiversity.
◎ For categories under Red List: Refer image
👉 State of the World’s freshwater fish species

◎ Risk of extinction ➔ 25% (3,086 out of 14,898 examined species) of the world's
freshwater fish species are at risk of extinction.
◎ Impact of climate change ➔ Climate change affects at least 17% of vulnerable
freshwater fish species through altered seasons, increasing sea levels that force
saltwater to travel up rivers, and declining water levels.
◎ Threats from pollution ➔ Pollution impacts 57% of freshwater fish species at risk
of extinction.
◎ Constructing dams and water extraction ➔ It impacts 45% of the freshwater
species.
◎ Overfishing ➔ Overfishing threatens about 25% of the freshwater species
◎ Invasive species, pests and diseases ➔ These impact about 33% of the freshwater
species.
◎ Conservation Status Updates ➔
○ Scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah) : The species has moved from Extinct in
the Wild to the Endangered category.
○ Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) :The species conservation status has improved
from Critically Endangered to Near Threatened.
○ Large-toothed Lake Turkana robber (Brycinus ferox): The species has moved
from Least Concern to Vulnerable
○ Atlantic salmon: The species has moved from Least Concern to Near
Threatened
👉 International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN)

◎ IUCN brings together governments and civil society organizations, united under
the common goal of protecting nature and conserving life on Earth.
◎ It was established in 1948.
◎ Headquarters ➔ Switzerland.
◎ It uses a set of quantitative criteria to evaluate the extinction risk of species.
Practice Question
With respect to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List,
1. According to the latest update of the IUCN Red List, freshwater fishes make up
more than half of the world’s known fish species.
2. The first global freshwater fish assessment was released at the COP28 of the UN
climate conference.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: Freshwater fishes make up more than half of the world’s
known fish species, which is an incomprehensible diversity given that freshwater
ecosystems comprise only 1% of aquatic habitat. This update completes the first
comprehensive assessment of the world’s freshwater fish species. At least 17% of
threatened freshwater fish species are affected by climate change, including
decreasing water levels, rising sea levels causing seawater to move up rivers, and
shifting seasons.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: The IUCN Red List update, released at the COP28 UN
climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, includes the first global
freshwater fish assessment. This update completes the first comprehensive
assessment of the world’s freshwater fish species, revealing that 25% (3,086 out
of 14,898 assessed species) are at risk of extinction.
GeM Portal -> Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
IUCN Headquarters -> New York.
Countervailing Duty (CVD) -> Imposed by Ministry of Finance.

AKTOCYTE tablets -> effective, particularly in pelvic cancer patients

suffering from radiotherapy-induced Cystitis.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) -> non-statutory body.
Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) -> India became a full
partner to this framework in 2019.
Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) -> Secretariat - Jeddah, Saudi

Arabia
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Committee on Privileges:
1. There is one committee for both the houses of the Indian Parliament, consisting
of members from both houses.
2. The committee is semi-judicial in nature.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With respect to India’s production and exports, consider the following statements:
1. India is one of the top producers of milk, fruits, and vegetables in the world.
2. India is among the top ten exporters of beverages in the world, owing to the
subsidies provided to the sugar industry.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to Multifunction Crypto-asset Intermediaries (MCI’s), consider the
1. They are the firms that combine a range of crypto-asset services products, and
functions typically centred around the operation of a trading platform.
2. The MCI’s do not suffer from any vulnerabilities in their functions and operations.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ The Financial Stability Board has released a report on Multifunction Crypto-Asset

Intermediaries.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: Multifunction crypto-asset intermediaries (MCIs) are individual
firms, or groups of affiliated firms, that combine a broad range of crypto-asset services,
products, and functions typically centred around the operation of a trading platform.
◎ Many MCIs have proprietary trading and investment functions, while some are also
involved in issuing, promoting, and distributing crypto-assets or related products,
including so-called stablecoins.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: MCI vulnerabilities are not very different from those of
traditional finance, including leverage, liquidity mismatch, technology and operational
vulnerabilities, and interconnections. These vulnerabilities are further amplified by a
lack of effective controls and operational transparency, poor or no disclosures, and
conflicts of interest. There are also additional vulnerabilities stemming from the
centrality of MCIs in crypto-asset ecosystem and their concentration and market power.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
18-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
18-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
18-December-2023
Krutrim- India's AI Model
Recently, “Krutrim”, an indigenous AI model, was launched in Bengaluru.
👉 About
● Launched by ➔ Krutrim Si Designs, the artificial
intelligence (AI) venture is led by Ola CEO Bhavish
Aggarwal.
● It will be available in beta version from January
2024 as an application programming interface
(API) for enterprises and developers.
👉 What is KRUTRIM?
◎ Krutrim is a sanskrit word meaning ‘artificial’.
◎ Krutrim is India’s first complete AI computing stack.
◎ Krutrim will have two classifications ➔
○ Krutrim base model: It will be available as an application programming interface (API)
for enterprises and developers
○ Krutrim Pro: It will have advanced capabilities for problem-solving and task execution
◎ Base Algorithm ➔ Large Language Model
◎ Krutrim’s conversational AI assistant (contemporary of Chatgpt), will understand and speak
multiple Indian languages fluently.
○ For Example: Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Odia, Telugu are among the languages it can
generate content in.
👉 What makes Krutrim different?

◎ Linguistic inclusivity in AI ➔ It can understand 20 Indian languages and generate
content in 10 Indian languages( including Marathi, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, and
Odia.)
◎ Indian Data Dominance ➔ It has processed over 2 trillion tokens (subwords used
in conversations) and has trained on 20 times more Indic tokens
◎ Voice-Activated ➔ It can also respond to voice inputs and can seamlessly switch
between written and spoken communication which will enhance user interaction
and accessibility.
◎ Demonstrating real-time coding ➔ It will make it a potential game-changer for
developers and businesses.
👉 Large Language Model (LLM)

◎ It is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that uses deep learning
techniques and massively large data sets to perform a variety of natural language
processing (NLP) tasks to understand, summarize, generate and predict new
content.
◎ They are also referred to as neural networks (NNs), as they are in effect
computing systems inspired by the human brain.
◎ Some of the global LLM evaluation benchmarks are : MMLU, HellaSwag, BBH,
PIQA and ARC.
U.S. and EUIndia’s
Impose Countervailing
Green Duties on Indian Goods
U.S. and the European Union have imposed countervailing duties (CVDs) on
four Indian products, in counter to India's Remission of Duties and Taxes on
Export Products (RoDTEP) scheme.
👉 About Countervailing Duty (CVD)

● Countervailing Duty (CVD) ➔ These are tariffs
imposed by the country on imported goods to offset
subsidies provided by the home country to the
producers of these goods.
● Purpose ➔ CVDs are levied by the importing country
to level the playing field between the producers in
the foreign country and the domestic country, taking
the subsidies in note provided by the foreign country.
U.S. and EU Impose Countervailing Duties on Indian Goods
◎ WTO Regulations on Countervailing Duties ➔ The WTO only permits

countervailing duties to be charged after the importing nation has conducted an
in-depth investigation into the subsidized exports.
◎ Supplementary duty: CVD is imposed as an additional duty besides customs on
imported products when such products are given tax concession in the country of
their origin.
◎ Recommendation Mechanism in India ➔ Countervailing measures in India are
administered by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), in the
Department of Commerce , Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
◎ Imposition ➔ The department of commerce suggests anti-dumping duties.
However, it is the department of revenue in the finance ministry that acts on the
suggestion within three months and puts the duties in place.
👉 Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR):

◎ DGTR is an attached office of the Department of Commerce, Ministry of
Commerce & Industry.
◎ The DGTR is a quasi-judicial body that independently undertakes investigations
before making its recommendations to the Central Government.
◎ It is the single national authority for administering all trade remedial measures
including anti-dumping, countervailing duties and safeguard measures.
👉 Anti-dumping duty:
◎ Against dumping of foreign goods ➔ The government imposes anti-dumping duty
on foreign imports when it believes that the goods are being “dumped” through
the low pricing in the domestic market.
○ It is imposed to protect local businesses and markets from unfair
competition by foreign imports.
◎ Exporter-specific and country-specific ➔ The levy of anti-dumping duty is both
exporter-specific and country-specific. It extends to the imports from only that
country in respect of which dumping has been alleged and the complaint has
been filed and duty recommended.
👉 Safeguard Duty:
◎ It refers to the steps taken by the government of a nation to shield its domestic
industries from unfair competition brought on by a surge in imports.
◎ Sunset clauses ➔ Safeguard duties must typically contain sunset clauses, and are
usually imposed by an importing country against all other nations (as opposed to
one specific member country).
👉 What is RoDTEP Scheme?

◎ It is a duty and tax remission scheme by the Government of India, which is a
successor to the Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS), and is being
implemented from 1st Jan 2021.
◎ Objective ➔ Its objective is to provide support to the exporters by providing a
reimbursement of taxes, duties and levies on the exported product, which are
currently not being refunded under any other mechanism, and thus become
embedded in the export.
◎ Duration ➔ The scheme has been extended till 30th June 2024 to maintain the
competitiveness in the export market.
◎ WTO Compatibility ➔ The scheme is WTO compatible and is being implemented
in an end-to-end IT environment.
◎ Financial Allocation ➔ For the Financial Year 23-24, a budget of Rs 15,070 crores
is available to support this scheme.
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2023
Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2023 has
been jointly awarded to Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad.
👉 About Ali Abu Awwad

◎ Profession ➔ He is an eminent Palestinian peace
activist working with the people of Palestine and
Israel for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the
Middle East.
◎ Ideology ➔ Abu Awwad used Gandhian principles of
non-violent action, which could help Palestinian
goals of freedom and dignity.
👉 About Daniel Barenboim:

◎ Origin ➔ He is a pianist and conductor also known for his use of music to foster
harmony in West Asia.
◎ Ideology ➔ He has a vision of a peaceful resolution of the West Asian Conflict.
👉 About Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and

Development
◎ It has been conferred every year since 1986 by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust.
It consists of a monetary award of 25 lakh along with a citation.
◎ Objective ➔ The award is given to individuals or organisations that work towards
ensuring international peace, disarmament and development.
◎ Selection Process ➔ Recipients are selected by an International jury appointed by

the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. The Jury comprises eminent personalities and
experts in Diplomacy, International Relations and Peace-building.
◎ The recipients are chosen from a pool of national and international nominees
◎ It also contains cash prize
◎ Previous Recipients of the award ➔
○ 2022: Jointly awarded to the Indian Medical Association and the Trained
Nurses Association of India as representatives of the COVID-19 warriors
○ 2021: Pratham NGO
Manthan Shivir for PM-JANMAN
Union Minister for Tribal Affairs and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
inaugurated the Manthan Shivir 2023 to finalize the implementation plan of
Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN). The
theme of the Manthan Shivir was ‘Whole of Government Approach –
Reaching the Unreached Last Mile’.
👉 About
● Launch ➔ The mission was launched on Janjatiya
Gaurav Divas (15th November 2023) in Jharkhand
to commemorate the birth anniversary of
Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
● Nodal ministry ➔ Ministry of Tribal Affairs
● Financial outlay ➔ Around Rs. 24,000 crores.
◎ Objective ➔ To focus development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

(PVTGs) who have been left out by the schemes of various
Ministries/Departments.
◎ Critical interventions ➔ The PM-JANMAN (comprising Central Sector and
Centrally Sponsored Schemes) to focus on 11 critical interventions through 9
Ministries which are as follows:
○ Provision of pucca houses
○ Connecting roads
○ Piped water supply/Community water supply
○ Mobile Medical Units with medicine cost
○ Construction of hostels
○ Construction of Anganwadi Centers
◎ Construction of Multipurpose Centers

(MPC)Energization of
habitations/households (Last mile
connectivity) through a) grid and b)
solar Power off-grid
◎ Setting up of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras
◎ Installation of mobile towers
👉 About Birsa Munda:

◎ Early life ➔ Born on November 15, 1875 he belonged to the Munda tribe in the
Chota Nagpur Plateau area.
◎ Contribution ➔
○ ‘Ulgulan’ (Revolution):He fought against the exploitative system of the
British colonial system and spearheaded a movement against British
oppression giving a call for ‘Ulgulan’ (Revolution).
○ Faith of ‘Birsait’: To curb the missionary conversion activities , a sect called
“Birsait” was started where members of the Munda and Oraon community
started joining the Birsait sect challenging the British conversion activities.
👉 PVTGs:
◎ Dhebar commission ➔ Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) who are the least
developed tribal groupings were established as a distinct category in 1973 by UN
Dhebar commission.
◎ PVTGs ➔ In 2006 the government renamed PTGs as PVTGs.
◎ Basic characteristics ➔ The criteria for identifying Particularly Vulnerable Tribal
Groups are: -
○ Pre-agricultural level of technology,
○ Low level of literacy,
○ Economic backwardness,
○ A declining or stagnant population.
Home Ministry sets upGreen
India’s Committee to ProbePartnerships
Hydrogen Parliament Security Breach
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has formed a committee headed by

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director-General Anish Dayal Singh to
probe the security breach in the Lok Sabha on 13th December 2023.
👉 About
● The committee consists of members from many
other security agencies and experts.
● The committee will investigate the security
lapses in the New Parliament and provide
recommendations on improving the security in
the new building at the earliest.
Home Ministry sets up Committee to Probe Parliament Security Breach
👉 Parliament Security System:

◎ The security of the complex is managed by Delhi Police, paramilitary forces and a
specialised department called Parliament Security Service (PSS).
○ Police control access of the area surrounding the complex
○ Paramilitary jawans guard the outer perimeter of the complex
○ Parliamentary Security Service controls the inside of the complex
◎ There are three levels of security check for any visitor, with visitors allowed only a
valid ID proof with themselves in the premises.
◎ They are escorted to the gallery by security staff, and their security supervision
continues even inside the public galleries.
👉 Steps to Apply for the Pass:

◎ Interested people can reach out to the Constituency MP, whose office sends the
information to the Centralised Pass Issue Cell (CPIC), which further vets the
application for security clearance.
◎ After the clearance, the pass is sent to the MP’s office, which provides the pass to
the visitor.
◎ Only 2 visitors per day are allowed per MP.
👉 UAPA Act:
◎ Objective ➔ It aims to prevent unlawful activities and associations in India that might
affect the sovereignty and integrity of India.
◎ Punishment ➔ The act has the death penalty and life imprisonment as the maximum
punishment.
◎ Applicability ➔ Under UAPA, both people of Indian and foreign nationality can be
charged. Even crimes committed from outside India can be handled under UAPA.
◎ Chargesheet ➔ A timeline of 180 days is available for the investigating agency to file the
chargesheet.
◎ Bail ➔ Stringent conditions for bail are laid in UAPA, providing the state more power to
detail and investigate the offender.
○ SC has held that courts must only be satisfied that a prima facie case can be made
against the accused to deny bail application.
Anish Dayal Singh committee -> investigate the security lapses in the New
Parliament and provide recommendations.
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize -> No cash award is given.
PM JANMAN -> Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

GeM Portal -> Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
IUCN Headquarters -> New York.
Countervailing Duty (CVD) -> Imposed by Ministry of Finance.

Practice Question
With reference to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, consider the
1. It is the largest high-altitude zoo in India.

2. It is situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
3. Two Siberian Tigers have been brought to the Zoo recently from Cyprus.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With respect to Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB), consider the following
statements:
1. It is a joint initiative of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
2. The programme involves transfer of technical knowledge and skills by the partner
administration to help a country in tax administration.
3. India has extended its support to a TIWB program for the first time.
How many of the statements given above are incorrect?

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Committee on Privileges:
1. There is one committee for both the houses of the Indian Parliament, consisting
of members from both houses.
2. The committee is semi-judicial in nature.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: Both houses of the Parliament have separate committees
on Privileges. The Lok Sabha committee consists of 15 members, while the Rajya
Sabha committee consists of 10 members. The committee also states the procedure
to be followed by the House in giving effect to the recommendations made by it.
When a question of privilege is referred to the Committee by the House, the
report of the Committee is presented to the House by the Chairman or, in his
absence, by any member of the Committee.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: The functions of this committee are semi-judicial in nature.

It examines the cases of breach of privileges of the House and its members and
recommends appropriate action. Its function is to examine every question
involving a breach of privilege of the House or of the members of any Committee
thereof referred to it by the House or by the Speaker. It determines with reference
to the facts of each case whether a breach of privilege is involved and makes
suitable recommendations in its report.
Practice Question
With respect to India’s production and exports, consider the following statements:
1. India is one of the top producers of milk, fruits, and vegetables in the world.
2. India is among the top ten exporters of beverages in the world, owing to the
subsidies provided to the sugar industry.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: India is the world's largest producer of milk, pulses and jute,
and ranks as the second largest producer of rice, wheat, sugarcane, groundnut,
vegetables, fruit and cotton.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: In spite of being among the top producers of milk, fruits
and vegetables, India ranked 15th last year in terms of revenue generated from
the beverages sector. India is not among the top 50 exporters of beverages and
one of the reasons for this is that global demand is moving towards low-sugar and
no-added-sugar drinks. Thus sugar subsidies of India do not incentivise the
growth of investment in beverages. Further, Investment in the beverages industry
is low as it faces one of the highest GST rates globally.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
19-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
19-December-2023
Logistics Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023 Report
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has recently released the “Logistics
Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023” report.
👉 About
◎ Performance Improvement ➔ The 5th edition of the
LEADS annual exercise (LEADS 2023) report, provides
insights into improvement of logistics performance at
State/UT level.
◎ A positive shift is visible in States’ performance across
the key pillars viz. Logistics Infrastructure, Logistics
Services and Operating and Regulatory Environment.
◎ Digital Reforms ➔ Reforms such as PM

GatiShakti, Logistics Data Bank, Unified
Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP), GST
are propelling growth in India’s logistics
sector.
◎ Logistics Policies ➔ 23 States/UTs have
also notified their State Logistics Policies
to align with the National Logistics Policy.
◎ Status of Logistics Sector ➔ 16
States/UTs have given industry status to
logistics.
👉 About LEADS Report:

◎ It is an annual assessment of logistics performance across States and UTs,
undertaken annually since 2018.
◎ Pillars for measuring logistics performance:
◎ Objective assessment ➔
○ Support provided by State / UTs for policy & process improvement of Logistics
ecosystem.
○ Enablers of Logistics – stock of physical infrastructure.
◎ Perception assessment ➔
○ Logistics Infrastructure.
○ Logistics Services.
○ Operating and Regulatory Environment.
◎ Origin ➔ LEADS was conceived on the lines of the Logistics Performance Index (LPI)
of World Bank in 2018.
○ While the LPI relies entirely on perception-based surveys, LEADS incorporates
both perception as well as objectivity.
◎ LEADS 2023 Report ➔ This report is based on a pan-India primary survey,
conducted between May and July 2023 across 36 States/UTs.
◎ Achievements of LEADS ➔
○ Align State objective with National priorities
○ Greater awareness among States on ground feedback from stakeholders for
logistics improvement
○ Encouraged competition among States, driving better infrastructure, services,
and regulatory environment
○ Raising awareness about logistics efficiency encouraging States to prioritize its
improvements.
China Warned
India’s of Potential
Green 'Middle-Technology
Hydrogen Partnerships Trap'
A top state-run Chinese think-tank Chinese Academy of Sciences has warned
that China might go into a potential "middle-technology trap“.
👉 About Middle-Technology Trap

● Definition ➔ It is a scenario in which developing
countries that had earlier benefited from
outsourcing due to their low cost advantage, face
long term economic stagnation because the core
technologies have been retained by the developed
nation.
China Warned of Potential 'Middle-Technology Trap'
◎ Limitation ➔ These countries face the challenge because they lack original
technology advances, since they employ technology importation, imitation,
absorption, and tracking.
◎ Challenge with China ➔ Due to the Middle-Technology Trap, the Chinese
manufacturers are finding it difficult to move up value chains.
◎ Solution ➔ Open doors for new investment, scientific innovation and skilled
human resources to deal with the challenge.
Second
India’sEdition
Greenof Kashi Tamil
Hydrogen Sangamam
Partnerships
Recently, the Prime Minister inaugurated the second edition of the Kashi
Tamil Sangamam at Namo Ghat, Varanasi.
👉 About
● It is part of the government's 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha
Bharat Yuva Sangam programme.'
● Aim ➔ To celebrate the many aspects of the
historical and civilisational connection between
India’s North and South.
● The broader objective is to create an understanding
of shared heritage and deepen the people-to-people
bond between the North and South regions.
Second Edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Education, in collaboration with other ministries

like Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food Processing, I&B, etc, and the Govt
of Uttar Pradesh.
◎ Implementing agencies ➔ IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University.
◎ It encompasses lectures covering literature, ancient texts, philosophy, spirituality,
music, dance, drama, yoga, and Ayurveda.
◎ Significance ➔ The endeavor is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating
the wealth of Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge.
◎ The first phase of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam was organized from 16th November
to 16th December 2022.
👉 Ancient Connect: Kashi and Tamilakam

◎ Divine Intervention ➔ As per Legend, King Parakrama Pandya, ruler of the region
around Madurai in the 15th century, wanted to build a grand temple dedicated to
Lord Shiva.
○ He travelled all the way to Kashi to bring back the lingam for his temple.
◎ While returning, he stopped to rest under a tree. When he tried to continue his
journey, the cow carrying the lingam refused to budge from its spot.
◎ Establishing Sivakasi ➔ Parakrama Pandya understood this to be the Lord’s wish,
and installed the lingam there, a place that today is known as Sivakasi.
◎ Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tenkasi ➔ For devotees who could not visit Kashi,
the Pandyas also built the Kasi Viswanathar Temple in what is today Tenkasi in
southwestern Tamil Nadu.
◎ People-People Connection ➔ Sant Kumara Gurupara negotiated with the Kashi

princely state to consecrate Kedarghat and Vishvesvaralingam in Varanasi. He
also composed Kashi Kalambagam, a collection of grammar poems on Kashi.
◎ Other Connections ➔ There were connections between the traders dealing in silk
saris and textiles from Bananas and Kanchipuram.
Over 60 Drown
India’s in a Hydrogen
Green Migrant Vessel off Libya: UN
Partnerships
A boat carrying over 60 Europe-bound migrants, including women and
children, capsized off the coast of Libya.
👉 About Libya
● Libya, a predominantly desert nation with
significant oil reserves, gained independence in
1951.
● Geography and Population ➔ Libya, situated in
North Africa, primarily consists of the vast Sahara
desert.
Over 60 Drown in a Migrant Vessel off Libya: UN
◎ The majority of its population resides along the coastal areas, where key cities
like Tripoli and Benghazi are located.
◎ Libya is geographically defined by its boundaries ➔
○ North: Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea.
○ East: Shares a border with Egypt.
○ South: Shares boundaries with Niger and Chad.
○ West: Bordered by Tunisia and Algeria.
◎ Capital ➔ Tripoli
◎ Language ➔ Arabic
👉 International Organization for Migration (IOM)

◎ About ➔ IOM is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of
migration and works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-
governmental partners.
◎ Genesis ➔ Established in 1951
◎ Members ➔ 175 member states, 8 observer status and offices in 171 countries.
◎ Objective ➔
○ IOM works to help ensure the orderly and humane management of
migration to promote international cooperation on migration issues,
○ to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems and to
provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and
internally displaced people.
◎ Mandate ➔ IOM works in the four broad areas of migration management:

○ Migration and development
○ Facilitating migration
○ Regulating migration
○ Forced migration
Siberian Tiger in India after 12 years
Two Siberian Tigers (Lara and Akamas) arrived at Darjeeling’s Padmaja
Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park from Cyprus. Exchange programme: As a
Part of the exchange programme, India has sent two Red Pandas to Pafos
Zoo Cyprus.
👉 About Siberian Tigers
◎ Scientific Name ➔ Panthera tigris altaica
◎ Siberian tigers, also known as Amur tigers.
◎ Geospatial Variation ➔ They inhibit the cold-climate
forests of the Primorye and Khabarovsk territories of
far-eastern Russia as well as northeastern China.
◎ Vulnerability status ➔ IUCN: Endangered
👉 Red Panda:
◎ Scientific name: Ailurus fulgens
◎ Vulnerability:
○ IUCN red list: Endangered
○ Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
○ CITES: Appendix 1
◎ Distribution: Almost 50% of the red panda’s habitat is in the Eastern Himalayas.
○ In India, it is found in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling and Kalimpong
districts of West Bengal.
◎ It is the state animal of Sikkim.
👉 About Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park(PNHZ):

◎ Establishment ➔ Established in 1958, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
is the largest high-altitude zoo in the country.
◎ Location ➔ District Darjeeling, West Bengal
◎ Conservation projects ➔ It has been successful in the conservation breeding of Red
Pandas, Snow Leopards and Blue Sheep.
◎ CZA rankings ➔ In the year 2022, the Central Zoo Authority of India (CZA) ranked
PNHZ Park First in all categories among all zoos in the country.
◎ Central Zoo Authority CZA ➔
○ Body: It is formed as a statutory body under Wildlife Protection Act,1972 .
○ Establishment: Established in 1992 .
○ Headed by : It is headed by Environment minister
👉 About Cyprus:
◎ Location ➔ Mediterranean Sea
◎ Cyprus belongs geographically to Western Asia
(Middle East) and politically to Europe.
◎ Cyprus is positioned both in the Northern and
Eastern hemispheres of the earth.
◎ Neighboring Countries ➔ Across the sea, it is
located to the southeast of Greece, to the south
of Turkey, to the west of Lebanon and Syria,
and to the north of Egypt, Israel and the
Palestinian Gaza Strip.
👉 About Cyprus:
◎ Location ➔ Mediterranean Sea
◎ Cyprus belongs geographically to Western Asia
(Middle East) and politically to Europe.
◎ Cyprus is positioned both in the Northern and
Eastern hemispheres of the earth.
◎ Neighboring Countries ➔ Across the sea, it is
located to the southeast of Greece, to the south
of Turkey, to the west of Lebanon and Syria,
and to the north of Egypt, Israel and the
Palestinian Gaza Strip.
Practice Question
With reference to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, consider the
1. It is the largest high-altitude zoo in India.

2. It is situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
3. Two Siberian Tigers have been brought to the Zoo recently from Cyprus.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park was
established in August 1958. It is the largest high-altitude zoo in the country. It has
been successful in the conservation breeding of 10 animals, including Red Pandas,
Snow Leopards and Blue Sheep.
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: It is situated in Darjeeling, West Bengal. It was formerly

known as Himalayan Zoological Park. In 1975, Late Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then
Prime Minister of India, dedicated the Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling, in
Memory of Late Smt. Padmaja Naidu, ex-governor of West Bengal. The Zoo was
re-named as Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
Practice Question
◎ Statement 3 is correct: Recently, two Siberian Tigers from Cyprus’ Pafos Zoos
were brought to Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park as part of
an exchange programme. In exchange, the zoological park has sent two Red
Pandas to Pafos Zoo.
◎ Siberian Tigers are mainly found in parts of Russia and China and are
distinguished from other tiger subspecies by their orange coat with black stripes
and thick fur. Considered by many experts as the world’s largest tiger, a male
Siberian tiger can grow over 12 feet with a tail over 3 feet long and weighs over
400 kg. Their female counterparts are, however, smaller in size.
Logistics Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023 Report -> Released by
Niti Aayog.
Libya -> situated in North Africa, primarily consists of the vast Sahara
desert.
International Organization for Migration (IOM) -> Established in 1951.
Anish Dayal Singh committee -> investigate the security lapses in the New
Parliament and provide recommendations.
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize -> No cash award is given.
PM JANMAN -> Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Jagannath Temple, Puri:
1. It was built by King Anantavarman of the Kharavela dynasty.

2. It is also known as the White Pagoda.
3. The temple is built in the Vesara style of Temple Architecture.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to Coal, consider the following statements:
1. China, India, and Indonesia are the three largest coal producers globally.
2. It is the largest anthropogenic source of carbon dioxide emissions.
3. Reducing the use of ‘unabated’ coal, is an explicit agreement of countries
signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC).

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
statements:

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Saint Lucia’s Tax Inspectors
India’s without Borders
Green Hydrogen (TIWB) Programme
Partnerships
India has been chosen to help Saint Lucia as a partner country in
strengthening its tax administration under the Tax Inspectors without
Borders (TIWB) program.
👉 About
● Duration of the programme ➔ It is expected to be
operational for a period of 12-18 months.
● Partner countries ➔ India, along with nations of
Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean will
collaborate with the TIWB Secretariat and will be
supported by UNDP’s Country Office.
Saint Lucia’s Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme
◎ India and TIWB ➔ Saint Lucia will mark the seventh time where India has
supported the TIWB programme by providing Tax Experts.
◎ India previously helped countries like Bhutan and Seychelles.
👉 India’s Role as a Partner Country of St.Lucia:

◎ Sharing of Best Practices ➔ India will transfer technical knowledge and skills to
Saint Lucia’s tax administration and sharing of best practices in an effort to
strengthen the country's tax administration.
◎ Focus Areas ➔ It will focus on the effective use of automatic exchange of
information under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) framework.
👉 Tax Inspectors Without Borders Programme:

◎ Launched by ➔ Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
(OECD) & United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2016.
◎ It is a capacity-building programme where partner administrations help the
country by sharing the technical, skills, know-how, and best audit practices with
its tax auditors.
👉 Saint Lucia
◎ Location ➔ it is an Island country of the West
Indies in the eastern Caribbean. It is located
north/northeast of the island of Saint Vincent,
northwest of Barbados and south of
Martinique.
◎ Key Tribes ➔ Arawaks and Caribs
◎ Capital city ➔ Castries.
👉 Saint Lucia
Martinique.
👉 Saint Lucia
Martinique.
Practice Question
statements:

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB) is a joint
initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) where partner
administration helps a country by sharing the technical skills, know-how, and best
audit practices in taxation.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: This programme is expected to be of 12-18 months’
duration in which India, in collaboration with the TIWB Secretariat and support of
the UNDP Country Office, Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, aims to aid Saint
Lucia’s tax administration by:
• Transferring technical knowledge and skills
• Sharing of best practices
◎ Statement 3 is incorrect: This programme is the seventh TIWB programme which
India has supported by providing Tax Experts. India has earlier helped countries
like Bhutan and Seychelles. The focus of the programme will be on the effective
use of automatic exchange of information under the Common Reporting Standard
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
20-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
20-December-2023
AI tool 'Bhashini'
The Prime Minister used the AI tool ‘Bhashini' while delivering his speech
during the inauguration ceremony of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2.0 at Namo
Ghat in Varanasi.
👉 About
◎ It is a real-time Artificial Intelligence-based
translation tool.
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of electronics and
information technology (MeitY)
◎ Objective ➔ It can be used by the people to
communicate in their own language while talking
to speakers of other Indian languages.
AI tool 'Bhashini'
◎ 'Bhasadaan' section ➔ Bhasha Daan includes the following categories for citizens to
contribute to:
○ Suno India: Contribute by typing out audio content or validating transcriptions
made by others.
○ Bolo India: Donate your voice through sentence recordings. Validate audio
recordings contributed by others.
○ Likho India: Contribute by translating the provided text. Validate translations
submitted by others.
○ Dekho India: Contribute by typing text seen or labeling images. Validate
images contributed by others.
◎ Importance of Bhashini ➔
AI tool 'Bhashini'
○ Digitization of Services in Local languages: According to Census 2001, India has
22 official languages, 122 major languages and 1599 other languages. In
response to the dominance of English content online despite India's rich
linguistic diversity, the Bhashini will encourage developers to provide digital
services in local languages.
○ Potential Roadmap for Local languages: As per a report by Analytics India
Magazine, the project has a chance to create a roadmap to allow internet
access for local languages.
○ Promoting Financial inclusion in Native language: Bhashini had the potential to
help promote financial inclusivity by extending digital financial services to
people in their native language.
Gelephu
India’s Smart CityPartnerships
Green Hydrogen Project
The King of Bhutan, has unveiled plans for a mega city project, the Gelephu
Special Administrative Region (SAR), spanning 1,000 sq km on its border
with Assam.
👉 About
● The project will be part of the Sarpang district
Special Economic Zone.
● Gelephu is one of three entry points to Bhutan
from India, the others being Samdrup
Jongkhar to its east and Phuntsholing to its
west.
Gelephu Smart City Project
👉 About Gelephu Mega-Project:

◎ Dynamic economic Corridor ➔ The proposed land connection from Gelephu,
traversing Assam and Northeast Indian states, extends to Myanmar, Thailand,
Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore, forming a dynamic economic
corridor that bridges South Asia to Southeast Asia
◎ Aim ➔ To attract investments, boost trade and create jobs therby facilitating
demand for goods and services.
◎ It is rooted in the vision and values of Gross National Happiness (GNH), as it
aspires to be a Mindfulness City and envision setting up of “zero emission”
industries.
👉 India’s Role:
◎ In the development of the Gelephu Mega Project, Indian government
infrastructure and private Indian investment will be key.
○ For Example: Indian Railways has completed the preliminary engineering-
cum-traffic survey for the 57-km Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link, which will be
built with Indian support.
◎ The Geluphu project will focus on three aspects:
• Renewable energy
• Infrastructure development: connectivity ranging from an international
airport, a railway line from India, and road connectivity eventually linking
Southeast Asia.
• Skilling for the youth
◎ Under the project, all the above objectives are to be achieved while adhering to
Bhutan’s environmental goals/norms. The 1,000-sq. km SAR project aims to
ensure that Bhutan’s youth see work and skilling opportunities in Bhutan itself.
The Lok Sabha passed the Post Office Bill, 2023
The Lok Sabha passed the Post Office Bill, 2023 to replace the Indian Post
Office Act of 1898.
👉 About
◎ Aim ➔ To provide a simple legislative framework
for post offices, facilitating their evolution into a
network for citizen-centric services.
◎ Postal services come under the Union List of the
Constitution.
◎ Appointment of Director General of Postal Services ➔ The Director General of

Postal Services will be appointed to head India Post with powers to make
regulations on various matters, including tariffs for services and supply of postage
stamps.
👉 Key Features of Post Office Bill, 2023:

The Indian Post Office Act, 1898 Post Office Bill, 2023
•Exclusive Privileges of the Central •The Bill does not provide for such
Government: The Act provides that privileges.
wherever the central government
establishes posts, it will have the exclusive
privilege of conveying letters by post, as
well as incidental services such as
receiving, collecting, sending, and
delivering letters.
•Services to be prescribed: The Act •The Bill provides that India Post will
specifies the services provided by India provide services as may be prescribed by
Post to include: the central government.
• Delivery of postal articles,
including letters, postcards,
parcels, and money orders.
•Powers to intercept postal •The Bill instead provides that

articles: The Act allows interception of interception of an article being
an article being transmitted through transmitted through post may be
post on certain grounds. carried out on the following grounds:
• An interception may be carried • the security of the state,
out on the occurrence of any • friendly relations with foreign
public emergency, or in the states,
interest of public safety or • public order,
tranquility. • emergency,
• Such interceptions may be • public safety
carried out by the central •An officer empowered by the central
government, state government through a notification may
governments, or any officer carry out interception.
specially authorized by them.
•Examination of postal articles prohibited •The Bill provides that in suspected cases,
under law or liable for duty: Under the the central government may empower an
Act, an officer in charge may examine a officer of India Post to deliver the postal
postal article if he suspects that it article to the customs authority or any
contains goods which are prohibited, or other specified authority.
are liable to be paid duty upon. • The authority will then deal with
• The Bill removes the powers of the item in question.
examination.
- •Regulation of Private courier services:

The 2023 Bill, for the first time, regulates
private courier services by bringing it
under its ambit.
- •Exemption: The post office or post officials

will be exempt from liability for loss,
misdelivery, delay or damage while
rendering postal service except when a
liability has been prescribed in government
rules.
India and ADB sign $250 million loan
Recently, India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $250 million
policy-based loan for the Industrial Corridor Development Programme (Sub-
programme 2)
👉 About National Industrial Corridor

Development Programme (NICDP)
● Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Commerce &
Industry
● Infrastructure Programme ➔ It aims to develop
futuristic industrial cities in India which can
compete with the best manufacturing and
investment destinations in the world.
◎ Apex Monitoring Authority of National Industrial Corridor Development and

Implementation Trust ➔
◎ Constitution: Government of India constituted Apex Authority in August
2007 and re-constituted it in December 2016.
◎ Composition: It comprises Finance Minister as Chairperson, Minister-in-
charge, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Minister of Railways, Minister of
Road Transport & Highways, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways,
Vice-Chairman (NITI Aayog) and Chief Ministers of all NIC States as Members.
Jagannath Temple Beautification Project
Odisha hosted a grand event in Puri from January 15-17 for the inauguration
of the beautification drive of the Jagannath temple corridor.
👉 About
● The Shree Mandira Parikrama Project (SMPP) ➔ It
Includes the Meghanada Pacheri (stone boundary
around Jagannath Temple) has a 7-meter green
buffer zone and a 10-meter pedestrian-only inner
circumambulation (parikrama) zone.
● Objective ➔ Develop Jagannath Temple as a
modern-day pilgrim center with all Modern
amenities.
◎ Events ➔ There will be a recitation of Vedas at all four gates of the temple
(Rigveda for the eastern gate, Yajurveda for the south, Samaveda for the west
and Atharvaveda for the north).
○ Lokarpan Yagna (a ritual performed before the sacred fire) will be performed
for all the 3 days.
◎ Odisha also launched a dedicated scheme for the renovation of temples across
villages named,” Ama Odisha Nabeen Odisha”.
👉 Jagannath Temple:
◎ Location ➔ Situated on the Sacred Mahodadhi (Bay of Bengal) in the Puri state of
Odisha.
◎ It is one of the 4 Dhams (Holiest of the holy places in Hinduism) i.e., Puri, Dwarika,
Badrinath & Rameswar.
◎ Deities ➔ Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, sister Devi Subhadra, and elder brother
Mahaprabhu Shri Balabhadra are being worshiped here. The deities are seated on the
Bejeweled Pedestal (Ratna Simhassana).
◎ Nabakalebara ➔ It is a process whereby the image of Jagannath made of wood is
ceremoniously replaced every twelve or nineteen years by an exact replica.
◎ Built by ➔ The Ganga Dynasty king Ananta Varman Chodaganga Deva dating back to
the 12th century in Kalinga style architecture, with a height of 65 meters on an
elevated platform.
◎ Sri Jagannath Festivals ➔ The most important festivals are the World famous Rath
Yatra & Bahuda Yatra along with other celebrations including Snana Yatra,
Netrotsava, Sayan Ekadasi, Chitalagi Amabasya, Srikrushna Janma, Dussehra, etc.
◎ 👉 Kalinga/Odisha Temple architecture:

◎ Style ➔ The temples of Odisha constitute a distinct substyle within the Nagara
architecture.
◎ The main architectural features of Odisha temples are classified in three orders,
i.e., Rekhapida, Pidhadeul and Khakra.
◎ The shikhara called rekhadeul or deul in Odisha, is vertical and it suddenly curves
sharply inwards at the top.
◎ Deuls are preceded by mandapas called Jagamohana in Odisha.
◎ The exterior of the temples are lavishly carved and their interiors are plain.
◎ Ground plan ➔ The ground plan of the main temple was square. Panchratha
(Five chariots) consists of two anurathas, two konakas and one ratha.
◎ There was no use of pillars on the porch. Iron girders were used instead to
support the roof.
◎ The Temple stands in the center of an inner courtyard on an elevated stone
platform that usually has boundary walls.
◎ Notable Examples ➔ Sun Temple of Konark, Jagannath temple at Puri, Lingaraj
temple at Bhubaneswar, etc.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Jagannath Temple, Puri:
1. It was built by King Anantavarman of the Kharavela dynasty.

2. It is also known as the White Pagoda.
3. The temple is built in the Vesara style of Temple Architecture.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is incorrect: The Odisha temple architecture, which made a humble
beginning around the 6th century A.D., had reached its pinnacle of perfection by
the time the temple of Lord Jagannath was built. It took three generations worth
of time to build the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri. Initiated by King
Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty in the middle of
the eleventh century and completed by King Anangbhima Deva III in the 12th
century, Jagannath temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples (still in use) in the
world.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: The temple is known for its unique architecture, which
includes a massive compound wall and a large temple complex with multiple
towers, halls, mandapas, and shrines. The temple is called "White Pagoda"
because of its white-painted walls.
Practice Question
◎ Statement 3 is incorrect: The temple contains some of the finest specimens of
Odishan architecture and sculpture. The temple is surrounded by two rectangular
walls, the outer enclosure is called Meghanad Prachir, and the inner enclosure is
called Kuruma Bedha. The Jagannath temple is on a perfect pancha-ratha plan.
The temple is a complete example of the fully developed Kalinga style, having all
four essential parts - the Vimana or the sanctum sanctorum, the Jagamohana or
the Audience Hall, the Nata Mandapa or the Dancing Hall and the Bhoga
Mandapa or the Hall of offering.
Logistics Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023 Report -> Released by
Niti Aayog.
Libya -> situated in North Africa, primarily consists of the vast Sahara
desert.
International Organization for Migration (IOM) -> Established in 1951.
AI tool 'Bhashini' -> Nodal Ministry - Ministry of Science and Technology.
Gelephu Smart City Project -> Nepal.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) -> holds office for a period of 5
years.
Practice Question
With reference to Noma, a tropical disease, consider the following statements:
1. The World Health Organization has added it to the official list of neglected
tropical diseases.
2. Noma primarily affects children who are malnourished and living in extreme
poverty with poor oral health.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Which one of the following best describes the term "Middle Technology Trap" in the
context of economic development?
A. A situation where developing countries excel in core technologies, leading to

sustained economic growth.
B. A scenario in which developing countries experience long-term stagnation as low-
cost advantages diminish and local firms struggle to catch up with core
technologies retained by developed nations.
C. A trap where developing nations successfully navigate the challenges of
technological advancement, avoiding economic pitfalls, yet their economic
growth is low.
D. An economic strategy that encourages middle-income countries to focus on low-
tech industries to sustain long-term growth.
Practice Question
With reference to Coal, consider the following statements:
1. China, India, and Indonesia are the three largest coal producers globally.
2. It is the largest anthropogenic source of carbon dioxide emissions.
3. Reducing the use of ‘unabated’ coal, is an explicit agreement of countries
signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC).

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ According to the report of the International Energy Agency( IEA), Global coal
demand is expected to decline by 2026.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: China, India, and Indonesia are the three largest coal
producers globally. They are expected to break output records in 2023, pushing
global production to a new high in 2023. These three countries now account for
more than 70% of the world’s coal production.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: Coal is the most important energy source for electricity
generation, steel-making, and cement production. It is also the largest source of
carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human activity (anthropogenic sources).
Practice Question
◎ Statement 3 is correct: Reducing the use of ‘unabated’ coal, or coal-burning
without technologies to capture carbon, is among the explicit agreements of
countries signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC), the world’s biggest influencer of climate policy. To have a
chance at keeping temperatures from rising beyond 1.5° Celsius by the end of the
century, coal emissions must decline by nearly 95% between 2020-2050.
International Energy Agency
• IEA was created in 1974 under the framework of the Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development (OECD) to help coordinate a collective response
to major disruptions in the supply of oil.
• Membership: 31 member countries, 13 association countries
• India: India is an association country in the IEA.
◎ Reports: World Energy Outlook ; Energy Efficiency Report; Net Zero Roadmap: A
Global Pathway to keep the 1.5 degree Goal in reach.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
21-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
21-December-2023
India tops remittance flowsHydrogen
India’s Green at USD 125 bn in 2023: World Bank
Partnerships
World Bank reported that India saw the highest amount of remittance
inflows in the world in 2023 at USD 125 billion.
👉 About
● Report ➔ In World Bank's latest Migration
and Development Brief, it was reported that
India has received the highest amount of
remittance inflows in 2023.
● Top 5 ➔ India was followed by Mexico (USD
67 billion), China (USD 50 billion), the
Philippines (USD 40 billion), and Egypt (USD 24
billion).
India tops remittance flows at USD 125 bn in 2023: World Bank
◎ Trends ➔
○ South Asia witnessed a 7.2 per cent increase in remittances in 2023.
○ Remittance flows to Europe and Central Asia decreased by 1.4 per cent after
a significant gain in 2022
○ The Middle East and North Africa saw a decline in remittance flows for the
second consecutive year.
◎ Cost of Remittance ➔ The report highlights that banks continue to be the
costliest channel for sending remittances, with an average cost of 12.1 per cent.
◎ Comparison with other transfers ➔ Remittances have surpassed the sum of FDI
and official development assistance in recent years.
India tops remittance flows at USD 125 bn in 2023: World Bank
👉 About the Migration and Development Brief:

◎ Preparation ➔ It is a semiannual report prepared by the Migration and
Remittances Unit, Development Economics (DEC), the premier research and data
arm of the World Bank.
◎ Objective ➔ It aims to update key developments and policies in migration and
remittance flows.
◎ Projection ➔ It also provides medium-term projections of remittance flows to
developing countries.
Lumpy Skin Disease
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and
Food Processing questions Union Governments data on cattle affected and
died due to Lumpy skin Disease.
👉 About
● It is a Viral disease caused by Poxvirus,
transmitted through the bite of an infected
mosquito or tick.
● It was first identified in an outbreak in Zambia in
1929.
● It can spread through saliva and nasal secretions
● It is not a Zoonotic disease, meaning it cannot
affect humans.
Lumpy Skin Disease
◎ Treatment ➔ It has no direct antiviral treatment, instead, the infected animals

receive supportive care, which involves use of antibiotics.
◎ Effect on cattle ➔
○ Reduced milk production
○ Male sterility
○ Pregnancy loss
○ Weight loss
IndiaIndia’s
beginsGreen
its First Winter Arctic
Hydrogen Expedition
Partnerships
In its first winter expedition to the Arctic region, Raman Research Institute,
Bangalore to represent India.
👉 About
● Nodal Agency ➔ The National Centre for Polar
and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa which is
being funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences
● Aim ➔ To get information about the radio
quietness of the location for deploying the
SARAS radio telescope in Svalbard, for
carrying out precision astronomy
measurements.
India begins its First Winter Arctic Expedition
◎ Significance ➔ It can potentially open avenues for deploying low frequency radio
telescopes in the region which will conduct experiments spanning across
astronomy, climate change and atmospheric science in the Arctic region.
👉 Arctic region:
◎ It is a region comprising an area above the Arctic Circle( north of latitude 66° 34’
N) and is part of eight countries — Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway,
Russia, Sweden, and the US ( who make up the Arctic Council) plus the Arctic
Ocean.
👉 Svalbard group of islands:

◎ It is the closest human habitation to the North Pole. The Norwegian archipelago
of Svalbard in the Arctic Ocean hosts the International Arctic Research base in Ny-
Ålesund.
◎ India’s Arctic Research Station Himadri is situated here.
◎ Scientific research in the Arctic region is governed by international legal
instruments like the Svalbard Treaty of 1920 (It recognises the sovereignty of
Norway over the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, The signatories were given equal
rights to engage in commercial activities (mainly coal mining) on the islands. India
is a signatory to the treaty)
👉 The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR)

◎ Established as an autonomous Research and Development Institution of the
Ministry of Earth Sciences in 1998, It is situated in Goa.
◎ Mandate ➔ Centre is designated as the nodal organization for the co-ordination
and implementation of the Indian Antarctic Programme, including the
maintenance of India’s permanent station in Antarctica (Maitri (1989) & Bharati
(2011)).
👉 Shaped Antenna measurement of the background Radio

Spectrum (SARAS) telescope
◎ SARAS is an indigenously designed Radio Telescope built at Raman Research
Institute.
◎ Aims ➔ To study the faint cosmological signal from hydrogen, commonly
referred to as the 21-cm signal, emerging from the Cosmic Dawn and the Epoch of
Reionization.
○ Cosmic Dawn denotes the period when the first stars and galaxies were born
in the universe.
Neglected Tropical Disease: Noma
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the inclusion of
Noma disease in its official list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
👉 About
● Noma Disease ➔ Also known as cancrum oris or
gangrenous stomatitis, it is a severe gangrenous
disease of the mouth and face.
● Gangrene ➔ It is the death of body tissue due to a
lack of blood flow or a severe bacterial infection.
◎ Causative Agent ➔ It is caused by the spirochete Borrelia vincenti in association

with anaerobic bacteria
◎ Mortality Rate ➔ It has a mortality rate of approximately 90% and is non -
contagious in nature.
◎ Major Challanges ➔
○ Lack of Awareness: There is an extreme lack of awareness regarding the
disease.
○ Outdated Data: There are no reliable numbers of cases; the WHO website
lists the ‘latest’ estimates 140,000 cases per year and a prevalence of
770,000 cases. However, the data dates back to 1998.
◎ Prevention and Cure ➔

○ Since the disease has a high mortality rate, early detection is critical because
therapy is most effective in the early stages.
○ Its spread can be slowed significantly with basic hygiene, antibiotics, and
nutritional rehabilitation.
○ Effective drugs like sulfonamides and penicillin and adequate surgical
treatment are needed, however, they remain inaccessible for many due to
extreme poverty.
👉 About Neglected Tropical Diseases:

◎ NTDs ➔ These are a diverse group of 21 conditions mainly prevalent in tropical
areas.
○ For Example: Buruli ulcer; Chagas disease
◎ They are ‘neglected’ because they are almost absent from the global health
agenda.
○ Even today, when the focus is on Universal Health Coverage, NTDs have
limited resources and are almost ignored by global funding agencies.
◎ Population Affected ➔ It primarily affects impoverished communities and
disproportionately affects women and children.
◎ Impact ➔ These diseases cause devastating health, social and economic
consequences to more than one billion people.
◎ Neglected Tropical Diseases road map 2021−2030 ➔

○ Reduce by 90% the number of people requiring treatment for NTDs
○ Reduce by 75% the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) related to NTD
○ Eliminate at least one NTD from 100 countries
○ Eradicate two diseases (dracunculiasis and yaws) globally
◎ Associated Challenges ➔
○ The epidemiology of NTDs is complex and often related to environmental
conditions.
○ Many are vector-borne, have animal reservoirs and are associated with
complex life cycles.
Practice Question
With reference to Noma, a tropical disease, consider the following statements:
1. The World Health Organization has added it to the official list of neglected
tropical diseases.
2. Noma primarily affects children who are malnourished and living in extreme
poverty with poor oral health.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: The World Health Organization (WHO) recently added one
of the world’s most under-recognized health challenges, Noma, to its official list
of neglected tropical diseases (NTD). The name of the disease comes from the
Greek word “nomē” meaning “to devour”, as noma eats away facial tissue and
bones if not treated early.
◎ Noma is also known as cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis. It is a severe
gangrenous disease of the mouth and face with a mortality rate of approximately
90 per cent. It is also associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition and poor
access to sanitation and oral hygiene.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: Noma primarily affects children who are malnourished,
infected with infectious diseases, living in extreme poverty with poor oral health,
or who have weakened immune systems, according to the WHO.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
Only 18 Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit reports on the Union
government’s accounts are tabled in parliament.
👉 About
◎ Constitutional Body ➔ CAG is a constitutional
authority entrusted with the responsibility of
auditing the accounts of the Union and state
governments.
◎ Constitution provisions ➔ Article 148 of the
constitution provides for an independent office of
CAG .
◎ Indian Audit and Accounts Department ➔ CAG is head of the Indian Audit and
Accounts Department
◎ Supreme Audit Institution Of India ➔ The CAG and Indian Audit and Accounts
Department (IA&AD) are known as the Supreme Audit Institution of India (SAI).
◎ Public Purse ➔ CAG is considered the “Guardian of Public Purse.”
◎ Appointment ➔ He is appointed by the President of India.
◎ Tenure ➔ CAG holds office for a period of 6 years or 65 years, whichever is earlier.
◎ Process of CAG report ➔ The reports of the CAG are submitted to the President in
case of the Union and to the Governor in case of the State who thereafter tables it
in the respective houses.
◎ Acts as a guide, friend and philosopher of the Public Accounts Committee of the
Parliament
◎ Functions of CAG ➔
○ Regular Audit: Every year, it is called a transactional audit through which we
cover all states and schemes.
○ Performance Audit: It is an independent, objective and reliable examination
of whether public sector undertakings, programs, activities or organizations
operating in accordance with the principles of economy, efficiency and
effectiveness.
PAC Urges Government Probe into AIC's Crop Insurance Allegations
In a recent report, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has reported on

the failure of Government PSU Agricultural Insurance Company of India Ltd
(AIC) to comply with the guidelines under National Agricultural Insurance
Scheme (NAIS), which was scrapped in 2015-16.
👉 About
● Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited
was incorporated under the Indian Companies Act
1956 in 2002.
● AIC transacts crop insurance businesses directly or
indirectly concerning agriculture and its allied
activities.
👉 Evolution of Crop Insurance Schemes:

◎ The Centre introduced the Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme (CCIS) in 1985,
which was replaced by NAIS from the Rabi season 1999-2000.
◎ From 2010-11, Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS) was
introduced in 50 districts as pilot.
◎ In 2013-14, MNAIS was merged with Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme
(WBCIS) and a new National Crop Insurance Programme (NCIP) started. However,
NAIS was allowed to be continued in some States, as per their option, until 2015-
16.
◎ From Kharif season 2015-16, the Centre introduced the flagship Pradhan Mantri
Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
👉 Public Accounts Committee (PAC):

◎ Origin ➔ It was established in 1921, and is constituted every year in the
Parliament.
◎ Members ➔ It consists of 22 members ( 15 members from Lok Sabha and 7
members from Rajya Sabha) elected with a term of 1 year only.
◎ Objective ➔ It was framed to examine the accounts reflecting appropriation of
funds granted to meet the expenditure of the annual Finance Accounts of the
government.
👉 Public Accounts Committee (PAC):

◎ Origin ➔ It was established in 1921, and is constituted every year in the
Parliament.
◎ Members ➔ It consists of 22 members ( 15 members from Lok Sabha and 7
members from Rajya Sabha) elected with a term of 1 year only.
◎ Objective ➔ It was framed to examine the accounts reflecting appropriation of
funds granted to meet the expenditure of the annual Finance Accounts of the
government.
Migration and Development Brief report -> prepared by International

Organization for Migration.
Public Accounts Committee (PAC) -> established in 1947, and is constituted
every year in the Parliament.
Lumpy Skin Disease -> Viral disease caused by Poxvirus.
Himadri -> India’s Antarctica Research Station.

AI tool 'Bhashini' -> Nodal Ministry - Ministry of Science and Technology.
Gelephu Smart City Project -> Nepal.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) -> holds office for a period of 5
years.
Practice Question
With reference to the Alternate Investment Fund (AIF), consider the following
statements:
1. An AIF is a fund established in India which is a privately pooled investment

vehicle.
2. They are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to Goa Liberation Day, consider the following statements:
1. ‘Operation Chutney’ is associated with Goa Liberation.

2. The armed action for the liberation of ‘Goa’ from Portuguese rule was code-
named ‘Operation Vijay’.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Which one of the following best describes the term "Middle Technology Trap" in the
context of economic development?
A. A situation where developing countries excel in core technologies, leading to

sustained economic growth.
B. A scenario in which developing countries experience long-term stagnation as low-
cost advantages diminish and local firms struggle to catch up with core
technologies retained by developed nations.
C. A trap where developing nations successfully navigate the challenges of
technological advancement, avoiding economic pitfalls, yet their economic
growth is low.
D. An economic strategy that encourages middle-income countries to focus on low-
tech industries to sustain long-term growth.
Practice Question
The ‘Middle-technology trap’ describes a scenario in which developing countries
benefit from industrial transfers due to their low-cost advantages but face long-term
economic stagnation when the advantages diminish, and local firms struggle to catch
up with the core technologies retained by developed nations.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
22-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
22-December-2023
Bill on
India’s appointing
Green HydrogenCECPartnerships
and ECs
👉 About
● Purpose of the Bill ➔ The proposed Bill repeals the
Election Commission (Conditions of Service of
Election Commissioners and Transaction of
Business) Act, 1991.
● The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election
Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service
and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 was introduced in the
Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023.
Bill on appointing CEC and ECs
◎ Supreme Court Judgement (In Anoop Baranwal v. UOI case, 2023) ➔ Until the
government forms a law on this, the selection panel of CEC and ECs will have
three members - the PM, the Leader of Opposition and the CJI.
👉 Key Provisions of the Bill:
◎ The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners
(Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, introduces
significant changes to the appointment and service conditions of the Chief
Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (ECs) in India.
◎ Selection Committee for Appointments ➔ The CEC and ECs will be appointed by
the President based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee comprising
the Prime Minister, a Union Cabinet Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition or
the leader of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha.
◎ Validity of Recommendations ➔ Recommendations made by the Selection

Committee will be valid even in case of a vacancy in the Committee.
◎ Search Committee ➔ A Search Committee, headed by the Law Minister will
propose a panel of names to the Selection Committee. Eligibility for these posts
includes holding (or having held) a post equivalent to the Secretary to the central
government.
◎ Salary and Conditions of Service ➔ The salary and conditions of service of the CEC
and ECs will be equivalent to the salary of a Supreme Court Judge.
◎ Term and Reappointment ➔ Members of the Election Commission will hold office
for six years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They
cannot be re-appointed.
◎ Removal Process ➔ The manner of removal of the CEC and ECs is retained as
specified in the Constitution{Article 324(5)}.
○ The CEC removable in the same manner as a Supreme Court Judge and the
ECs removable only upon the recommendation of the CEC.
◎ Status of CEC and ECs ➔ They enjoy the status of a judge of the Supreme Court.
The Bill has retained that status.
◎ Safeguards CEC and ECs from legal proceedings ➔ It is related to actions taken
during their tenure, provided such actions were carried out in the discharge of
official duties.
○ The amendment aimed to shield these officials from civil or criminal
proceedings related to their official functions.
◎ These changes aim to redefine the process of appointment and the service
conditions of the election commissioners, impacting the operational dynamics of
the Election Commission of India
Tiger numbers in Valmiki Tiger reserve see a rise
Reduced human activities in Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) has
resulted in an increase in Tiger population.
👉 About
● Valmiki Tiger Reserve is part of the Valmiki-
Chitwan- Parsa Terai Arch Tiger Conservation
Landscape.
● Location ➔ West Champaran, Bihar.
● Major Flowing Rivers ➔ Gandak, Pandai, Manor,
Harha, Masan and Bhapsa flow through various
parts of the reserve
◎ Flora ➔ Moist mixed deciduous, Open-land vegetation, Sub-mountainous semi-

evergreen formation, Freshwater swamps, Riparian fringes, Alluvial grasslands,
high hill savannah and Wetlands.
◎ Fauna ➔ Rhesus macaque and common Langur
◎ The Reserve has also been designated as Important Bird Area (IBA) by the Indian
Bird Conservation Network
👉 Eco Sensitive Zones

◎ These are areas/zones with valuable environmental resources requiring special
attention for their conservation because of its landscape, wildlife, biodiversity,
historical and natural values.
◎ It is a zone of roughly 10 km around the boundaries of national park and wildlife

sanctuaries. State governments are required to declare it under the provision of
The Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
👉 The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)

◎ It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change
constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
◎ Powers and Functions ➔
○ To approve the tiger conservation plan prepared by the State Government.
○ Evaluate and assess and allow any proposed land use projects such as, mining,
industry and other projects within the tiger reserves.
○ Providing statutory authority to Project Tiger so that compliance of its directives
becomes legal.
Indian Cyber Threat Report 2023
The India cyber threat report 2023 is released by the Data Security Council
of India (DSCI) and Quick heal.
👉 About Indian Cyber Threat Report 2023
◎ Purpose ➔ To empower businesses to fortify

their cybersecurity posture by presenting a
thorough analysis of cyber threats in the Indian
landscape, drawing on a wealth of data,
statistics, and telemetry from approximately 8.5
million endpoints.
👉 Key findings of the report:

◎ Total Detections ➔ Over 400 million detections across approximately 8.5 million Endpoints.
◎ Detection Rate ➔ Averaging 761 detections per minute.
◎ Behaviour-Based Detections ➔ Approximately 49 million detections(12.5%) stem from
behaviour-based analysis.
◎ Ransomware incident ratio ➔ 1 per 650 detections
◎ Malware incident ratio: 1 per 38,000 detections ·
◎ Cryptojacking (Emerging Threat) It is a type of cybercrime that involves the unauthorized use
of people's devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, or even servers) by cybercriminals to
mine for cryptocurrency.
◎ A significant increase in Adware and Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs).
👉 Data Security Council of India (DSCI)

◎ It is a premier industry body on data protection in India, setup by NASSCOM.
◎ It is committed to making cyberspace safe, secure and trusted by establishing best
practices, standards and initiatives in cyber security and privacy.
New Pact on Migration and Asylum: European Union Migration Deal
The European Union and Member states have reached an agreement to

reform the bloc's migration policy through ‘New Pact on Migration and
Asylum’.
👉 Key Features of New Pact on Migration

and Asylum
● Screening Regulation ➔ It envisions a pre-entry
procedure to swiftly examine an asylum seeker's
profile and collect basic information such as
nationality, age, fingerprints and facial image.
● Eurodac Regulation ➔ It is a large-scale database that
will store the biometric evidence collected during the
screening process.
◎ Asylum Procedures Regulation ➔ It sets two possible steps for migrants: the traditional
asylum procedure, which usually takes several months to complete, and a fast-tracked
border procedure, meant to last a maximum of 12 weeks.
◎ Asylum and Migration Management Regulation ➔ It establishes a system of "mandatory
solidarity" that will offer countries three options to manage migration flows ➔
○ relocate a certain number of asylum seekers,
○ pay a contribution for each claimant they refuse to relocate,
○ finance operational support.
◎ Crisis Regulation ➔ It foresees exceptional rules that will apply when the bloc's asylum
system is threatened by a sudden and massive arrival of refugees, as was the case during
COVID-19 pandemic.
○ In these circumstances, national authorities will be allowed to apply tougher
measures, including longer detention periods.
👉 European Union(EU)
◎ It was founded in 1957 with originally six members: Belgium, France, Germany,
Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands.
◎ The EU is a political and economic grouping of 27 countries committed to shared
democratic values.
◎ The euro is the shared official currency of 19 EU members known collectively as
the eurozone.
Practice Question
With reference to the Alternate Investment Fund (AIF), consider the following
statements:
1. An AIF is a fund established in India which is a privately pooled investment

vehicle.
2. They are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs)
👉 About
● It refers to the collection of pooled investment
funds that infuse in hedge funds, private equity,
venture capital, and other investment types.
● They are defined under the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (Alternative
Investment Funds) Regulations 2 (1) (b), 2012
set up by the SEBI.
◎ It can be established through a company or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).
👉 Benefits of Investing in AIFs:

◎ High Return Potential ➔ AIFs generally have a higher return potential than other
investment options.
◎ Low Volatility ➔ AIFs are not directly related to stock markets. Volatility in these
funds is less, particularly when compared with traditional equity investments.
◎ Diversification ➔ These funds allow much-needed diversification in an
investment portfolio. They act as a cushion at the time of financial crisis or
market volatility.
Practice Question
◎ In a move aimed at curbing the evergreening of stressed loans, the Reserve Bank
of India (RBI) on Tuesday directed banks, non-banking financial companies
(NBFCs) and other lenders not to invest in any scheme of alternative investment
funds (AIFs) which has downstream investments(Downstream investments mean
the actual investment by the AIF in a company using the funds they have raised
from AIF investors) in a debtor company.
◎ Statement 1 is correct: An AIF means any fund established or incorporated in

India which is a privately pooled investment vehicle and which collects funds
from sophisticated investors, whether Indian or foreign, for investing it in
accordance with a defined investment policy for the benefit of its investors.
◎ Regulated entities (REs) make investments in units of AIFs as part of their regular
investment operations. RBI, however, said that certain transactions of REs
involving AIF raise regulatory concerns.
Practice Question
◎ Statement 2 is incorrect: The establishment and operation of Alternative
Investment Funds (“AIFs”) in India is regulated by the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012 (“AIF
Regulations”) and the guidelines and circulars issued by the Securities and
Exchange Board of India.
◎ As of December 19, there were 1,220 AIFs registered with the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Total investment commitment raised by AIFs
stood at Rs 8.44 lakh crore as of June 30, 2023, compared to Rs 6.94 lakh crore at
the end of June 2022, according to SEBI data.
Practice Question
With reference to Goa Liberation Day, consider the following statements:
1. ‘Operation Chutney’ is associated with Goa Liberation.

2. The armed action for the liberation of ‘Goa’ from Portuguese rule was code-
named ‘Operation Vijay’.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Goa Liberation Day
Goa Liberation Day is observed on 19 December every year. The year 2023
marks the 62nd anniversary of Goa's liberation.
👉 About
◎ The day marks the liberation of Goa from
Portuguese rule in 1961 when the Indian Army
successfully captured Goa through Operation
Vijay, ending Portuguese rule.
◎ Goa's liberation came 14 years after India
gained Independence from the British.
Goa Liberation Day
◎ History ➔
○ Portuguese Control of Goa: In 1510, Goa came under Portuguese rule after
Admiral Afonso de Albuquerque defeated the Sultan of Bijapur, Yusuf Adil
Shah.
👉 Timeline of the Freedom Movement in Goa:

◎ Control over Dadra and Nagar Haveli ➔ In July-August 1954, Indian activists
peacefully took control of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. This success inspired freedom
fighters in Goa.
◎ Rise of Goan Nationalism ➔ Tristão de Bragança Cunha, known as the father of
Goan nationalism, founded the Goa National Congress at the Calcutta session of
the Indian National Congress in 1928.
Goa Liberation Day
○ In 1946, socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia led a historic rally in Goa that
gave a call for civil liberties and freedom, and eventual integration of Goa with
India.
◎ Firing at Anjadip Island ➔ The spark was provided in November 1961, when the
Portuguese contingent based at Anjadip island, fired at the Indian merchant ship
Sabarmati.
○ The Portuguese garrisons then started firing randomly at Indian fishing boats
around South Goa and Karwar, which is now in the state of Karnataka.
◎ Operation Chutney ➔ Operation Chutney, the precursor to Operation Vijay, was

launched on December 1, 1961, by the Naval Headquarters to capture Anjadip.
Goa Liberation Day
○ Operation to Capture Anjadip: Indian Navy ships Betwa and Beas were
deployed on linear patrol off Goa, and the Mysore and Trishul carried out an
amphibious landing operation with a platoon of 75 sailors.
○ Indian Control over Anjadip: This led to a full-fledged gun and grenade battle
between the Indian and Portuguese soldiers for control over Anjadip. The
Portuguese were outmatched, and they surrendered.
◎ Operation Vijay ➔
○ Military Action by India: In 1961, the Portuguese fired at Indian fishing boats,
killing one fisherman.
○ Consequently, the Indian Armed Forces was authorized to liberate Goa and
Daman and Diu by force. Operation Vijay began on December 18, 1961, and
ended on December 19, 1961.
Goa Liberation Day
◎ Significance ➔ The liberation of Goa marked the departure of the last colonial
power from India. The Union of India was completed with Goa’s liberation on
December 19, 1961.
National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) -> constituted under the

Environment Protection Act, 1986.
New Pact on Migration and Asylum -> By ASEAN countries.
Data Security Council of India (DSCI) -> setup by NASSCOM.
Valmiki Tiger reserve -> Jharkhand.
Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs) -> established through a company or a

Limited Liability Partnership.
Migration and Development Brief report -> prepared by International

Organization for Migration.
Public Accounts Committee (PAC) -> established in 1947, and is constituted
every year in the Parliament.
Lumpy Skin Disease -> Viral disease caused by Poxvirus.
Himadri -> India’s Antarctica Research Station.

Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Sahitya Academy:
1. It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.

2. It implements programmes related only to 22 scheduled languages of India.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
(GSV):
1. It subsumed the National Rail and Transportation Institute.

2. It has been established to create a pool of best-in-class professionals for the
transportation sector.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
23-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
23-December-2023
National
India’sGeoscience Data Repository
Green Hydrogen Portal
Partnerships
Recently, the Ministry of Mines launched the National Geoscience Data
Repository (NGDR) Portal.
👉 About
● It is a comprehensive online platform for
accessing, sharing, and analyzing geospatial
information across the nation.
● Led By ➔ The Geological Survey of India (GSI)
and Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space
Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG-N).
National Geoscience Data Repository Portal
◎ Significance ➔ It is a significant step towards democratizing critical geoscience

data, empowering stakeholders across industries and academia with
unprecedented access to invaluable resources.
👉 About Geological Survey of India (GSI):

◎ Establishment ➔ The GSI was set up in 1851 primarily to find coal deposits for
the Railways.
◎ Headquarters ➔ Kolkata
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Mines.
◎ Mandate ➔ Creating and updation of national geoscientific information and
mineral resource assessment.
National Geoscience Data Repository Portal
👉 About Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space Applications and

Geoinformatics (BISAG-N):
◎ It is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 under the Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India.
○ Currently, it is a state agency of Department of Science and Technology
Government of Gujarat, located at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
◎ Mandate ➔ To facilitate capacity building and support technology transfer and
entrepreneurship development in the area of geo-spatial technology.
Namdapha Flying Squirrel
Missing for 42 years, the Namdapha flying squirrel resurfaces in Arunachal
Pradesh.
👉 About
◎ Namdapha Flying Squirrel ➔ It is an arboreal,
nocturnal flying squirrel endemic to Arunachal
Pradesh.
◎ As the Namdapha flying squirrel has rarely been
recorded, there is little information available
regarding its biology or ecology, but it is likely to
be similar to other flying squirrels.
◎ Scientific Name ➔ Biswamoyopterus Biswasi.

◎ Population and Habitat ➔ No population estimate is available for B. biswasi, but
the known habitat is tall Mesua ferrea jungles, often located on hill slopes.
◎ IUCN Red List Status ➔ Critically Endangered.
◎ Namdapha flying squirrels are herbivores (frugivores, granivores). They eat various
fruits, nuts, seeds, fungi, flowers, and tree sap
◎ Threats ➔ Threatened by habitat loss and degradation caused by shifting
agriculture, extraction of non-timber forest products, etc.
◎ About Flying Squirrels: All flying squirrels are nocturnal, possibly because
their gliding membrane hinders their movement, and thus darkness gives them
extra protection from predatory birds
👉 Namdapha National Park:

◎ It is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot.
◎ Location ➔ Lies in the international border between India and Myanmar within
Changlang District in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
◎ Fauna ➔ It is the only park in the World to have the four Feline species of big cat,
namely the Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Clouded Leopard.
◎ Other Fauna ➔ Namdapha flying squirrel, Asian elephants and several lesser cats.
◎ Climate ➔ It varies from tropical to sub-tropical temperate andp; arctic.
◎ Flora ➔ Pinus merkusi and Abies delavavi, the Blue Vanda, Mishimi Teeta.
R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine
R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine added to the WHO's list of prequalified
vaccines. The R21 vaccine is the second malaria shot approved by WHO,
following the RTS,S/AS01.
👉 About
● It is developed by the University of Oxford and
manufactured by Serum Institute of India.
● Recommended Usage ➔ To prevent Malaria in children
under 5 years of age.
● Efficacy: It can reduce malaria cases by 75% over a year.
● Price ➔ It will be priced around $5 per dose at high
volumes. Hence making it cheaper and accessible to a
larger population
👉 Malaria:
◎ About ➔ It is caused by Plasmodium parasites, which spread through the bites of
infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
○ It is caused in humans by five species of parasite, but 2 amongst them –
Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax constitute the bulk of the
incidence of infection.
◎ Malaria is not contagious and cannot spread from one person to another, also, it
is preventable and curable.
◎ In 2021, an estimated 247 million people contracted malaria in 85 countries, and
the disease claimed approximately 619,000 lives.
👉 WHO Vaccines Prequalification:

◎ Objective ➔ To ensure that vaccines used in immunization programmes are safe
and effective.
WHO Vaccines Prequalification List: Significance
◎ Benchmark of Quality ➔ Vaccines meets WHO standard for vaccine quality,
safety and efficacy standards, as endorsed by the WHO Expert Committee on
Biological Standardization (ECBS)
◎ Suitability ➔ Vaccine is suitable for the target population (in accordance with the
recommended immunization schedules) and for use with appropriate
concomitant products
◎ Operational Specifications ➔ Vaccines meet the operational specifications for

packaging and presentation of UN organizations interested in procuring that
vaccine.
◎ Funding ➔ It ensures funding support for deployment by Gavi (Global Alliance for
Vaccine and Immunisation) the Vaccine Alliance.
IMF Analysis of India’s
India’s Green ForeignPartnerships
Hydrogen Exchange Regime
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that the central bank
excessively managed the Indian currency in the period December 2022 to
October 2023.
👉 About IMF
● Establishment: IMF was conceived in 1944 at the
United Nations Bretton Woods Conference.
● Objective: It is a global organization that works
to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity for
all.
● Members: 190 countries, including India.
● Headquarters: Washington DC, United States.
IMF Analysis of India’s Foreign Exchange Regime
◎ Activity: Its major role are Policy Advice, Financial Assistance and Capacity
Development.
◎ IMF financing helps member countries tackle balance of payments problems. Eg-
Sri Lanka, Pakistan etc.
👉 Types of Foreign Exchange Regime:

◎ Fixed Exchange Rate ➔ An exchange rate regime where the government or the
central bank determines the country’s official exchange rate with another
currency. For Example - The value of 1 Pound to INR in 1947 was fixed at 13.33.
◎ Floating Exchange Rate ➔ A system where the exchange rate is determined by
the market forces of supply and demand.
IMF Analysis of India’s Foreign Exchange Regime
◎ Managed Floating Rate ➔ In this system, the country’s central bank occasionally
intervenes to ensure the currency is not too volatile. India currently follows this
model.
👉 What is an Exchange Rate?

◎ It is the value of one nation's currency versus the currency of another nation or
economic zone.
Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023
Sahitya Akademi has recently announced its annual Sahitya Akademi Award
2023 in 24 languages.
👉 About
◎ Awards ➔ 9 books of poetry, 6 novels, 5 short
story collections, 3 essays and 1 literary study
have won the Sahitya Akademi Awards this year.
◎ Process ➔ The awards recommended by
distinguished jury members were approved by
the Executive Board of the Sahitya Akademi
under the Chairmanship of the President of the
Akademi.
👉 About Sahitya Akademi: Sahitya Akademi (India's National

Academy of Letters):
◎ It was founded in 1954 as an autonomous body under the Union Culture Ministry
and is dedicated to promoting literature in Indian languages.
◎ It is the central institution for literary dialogue, publication and promotion in the
country and the only institution that undertakes literary activities in 24 Indian
languages.
◎ It was registered as a society in 1956 under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
◎ Functions ➔ Work actively to develop Indian letters.
○ Set high literary standards to foster and coordinate literary activities in all the
Indian languages.
○ Promote the cultural unity of the country through literary activities.
◎ Awards ➔ The first Awards were given in 1955. The award is in the form of a casket
containing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and ₹1,00,000.
○ Literary Works: Akademi gives 24 awards annually to literary works in the
languages it has recognized.
○ Literary Translation: 24 awards are given annually to literary translations
from and into the languages of India.
○ Bhasha Samman: It also gives special awards for significant contributions to
the languages not formally recognized by the Akademi and for contributions to
classical and medieval literature.
◎ Languages Recognised ➔ Besides the 22 languages enumerated in the Constitution
of India, the Akademi has recognised English and Rajasthani as languages in which
its programme may be implemented.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Sahitya Academy:
1. It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.

2. It implements programmes related only to 22 scheduled languages of India.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Namdapha Flying Squirrel -> IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable.
R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine -> developed by Bharat biotech

International Ltd.
IMF -> IMF financing helps member countries tackle balance of payments
problems.
Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme -> World

Bank-supported Central Sector Scheme.
National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) -> constituted under the

Environment Protection Act, 1986.
New Pact on Migration and Asylum -> By ASEAN countries.
Data Security Council of India (DSCI) -> setup by NASSCOM.
Valmiki Tiger reserve -> Jharkhand.
Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs) -> established through a company or a

Limited Liability Partnership.
Practice Question
With reference to the initiatives undertaken for the implementation of the New
Educational Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), consider the following statements:
1. PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) has been launched for upgradation of schools.
2. National Mission for Mentoring (NMM) has been launched to provide mentoring to
school teachers.
3. Samagra Shiksha Scheme has been fully aligned with the recommendation of NEP
2020.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to World Health Organization (WHO) vaccine prequalification,
1. A thorough evaluation of data, sample testing, and WHO-inspection of

manufacturing sites are a prerequisite for the vaccine to be included in WHO List
of Prequalified Vaccines.
2. WHO vaccine prequalification ensures that vaccines used in global immunisation
programmes are safe and effective.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
(GSV):
1. It subsumed the National Rail and Transportation Institute.

2. It has been established to create a pool of best-in-class professionals for the
transportation sector.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Gati Shakti
India’s Green Vidyalaya
The Ministry of Railways directed the National Academy of Indian Railways
(NAIR), Vadodara, to transfer all its assets to Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
(GSV).
👉 About
● Establishment ➔ Formerly Railway Staff College,
now NAIR, was founded in 1952.
● Training Academy for Railway Officers ➔ It
delivers foundational and introductory training
initiatives for Group-A railway officers.
Gati Shakti Vidyalaya
◎ NAIR also offers foundational programs for Group-B officers and organizes
refresher courses, skill enhancement, and other mid-career training sessions for
railway personnel.
👉 Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) Vadodara:

◎ Genesis ➔ GSV was established through an Act of Parliament in 2022, for creating
best in class manpower and talent for the entire transportation and logistics
sectors.
◎ About ➔ GSV is India’s first university focused on transport-related education,
multi-disciplinary research and training.
Gati Shakti Vidyalaya
◎ Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) is a Central University and a pioneer in the

domain of Transport and Logistics education in India. Founded in 2022 by the Act
of Parliament
◎ GSV subsumes the previously-existing National Rail and Transportation Institute
(NRTI)
◎ GSV is focused on developing global and national partnerships with top
universities and organisations from across the world
◎ Aim ➔ To fulfill the mandate of the National Developmental Plans (PM Gati
Shakti National Master Plan 2021 and National Logistics Policy 2022) across
railways, shipping, ports, highways ,roads, waterways, and aviation etc.
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ the Ministry of Railways, Govt. of India.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
25-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
25-December-2023
Project PRAYAS
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) launched Project
PRAYAS (Promoting Regular & Assisted Migration for Youth and Skilled
Professionals).
👉 About
◎ The project is a joint collaboration between the
IOM India and Indian Council of World Affairs
(ICWA).
◎ Project Goal ➔ To facilitate safe, orderly and
regular migration for Indian workers and
students.
Project PRAYAS
○ It will strengthen international migration governance.
○ Status of Indian Diaspora Worldwide: More than 32 million Indians and people
of Indian origin residing abroad.
◎ Improved Coordination ➔ The Project envisages development of a roadmap for
improved coordination between Central and State Governments to encourage
sharing of best practices between States.
◎ Consolidation of Initiatives ➔ It will consolidate all the state-level initiatives for
safe, orderly, and well-managed international migration.
◎ It will lead to enhanced engagement with the MEA on matters related to the
international migration cycle.
◎ Alignment with SDG ➔ Project aligns with Goal 10.7 of the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to facilitate orderly, safe, regular, and
responsible migration and mobility of people.
Project PRAYAS
◎ Adherence to GCM and MiGOF ➔ The project also adheres to the objectives of
Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) and the Migration
Governance Framework (MiGOF).
👉 International Organisation for Migration (IOM):

◎ IOM is a UN agency established in 1951.
◎ Mandate ➔ It is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration.
◎ Members ➔ 175 nations including India
Project PRAYAS
👉 Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM):

◎ About ➔ It is the first inter-governmentally negotiated agreement, prepared
under the auspices of the United Nations.
◎ covering all dimensions of international migration in a holistic and comprehensive
manner.
◎ It is a non-binding document respecting states’ sovereign right in determining who
enters and stays in their territory and demonstrating commitment to international
cooperation on migration.
👉 Migration Governance Framework (MiGOF):
◎ Migration Governance Framework (MiGOF) by IOM sets out a structure in which
States and IOM can work together to address migration issues.
Project PRAYAS
👉 Indian Council of World Affairs:

◎ It is a think tank devoted exclusively for the study of international relations and
foreign affairs.
Project PRAYAS
👉 Indian Council of World Affairs:

◎ It is a think tank devoted exclusively for the study of international relations and
foreign affairs.
National Sports Awards 2023
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports announced National Sports Awards 2023.
👉 About
● These are given every year to recognize and
reward excellence in sports.
● Allocation ➔ Awards are allocated annually by
India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Nominated sportspersons receive their awards
from the President of India at the Presidential
Palace.
◎ Categories of Awards ➔ Considered the pinnacle of sporting honours in India, the

National Sports Awards are a collection of six different awards given out to
sportspersons, coaches or organisations for their achievements and contribution
towards the growth of Indian sports.
◎ Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award ➔ It is given for the spectacular and most
outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over the period
of the previous four years.
○ Shri Chirag Chandrashekhar Shetty and Shri Rankireddy Satwik Sai Raj are
selected for 2023.
◎ Arjuna Awards ➔ It is given for good performance over a period of the previous
four years and for showing qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and a sense of
discipline.
○ Shri Mohammed Shami for Cricket, Ms Diksha Dagar for Golf etc. are
selected for 2023.
◎ Dronacharya Award ➔ It is given to coaches for doing outstanding and
meritorious work on a consistent basis and for enabling sportspersons to excel in
International events, in two categories:
○ Dronacharya Award (regular category) for outstanding coaches: Shri Lalit
Kumar for Wrestling, Shri R. B. Ramesh for Chess, and Shri Mahaveer Prasad
Saini for Para Athletics etc. are selected for 2023.
○ Dronacharya Award (life-time category) for outstanding coaches: Shri
Jaskirat Singh Grewal for Golf and Shri Bhaskaran E for Kabaddi etc. are
selected for 2023.
◎ Dhyan Chand Award for lifetime achievement in Sports and Game ➔ It is given to
honour sportspersons who have contributed to sports by their performance and
who continue to contribute to promotion of sports events after their retirement.
Shri Vineet Kumar Sharma for Hockey and Ms Kavitha Selvaraj for Kabaddi are
selected for 2023.
◎ Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy 2023 ➔ It is given to honour the
overall top performing university in inter-university tournaments. Guru Nanak
Dev University, Amritsar as Overall winner university and Lovely Professional
University, Punjab as 1st runner up University are selected for 2023.
◎ Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar (National Sports Incentive Award) ➔ Awarded
to organisations and individuals for playing a role in the area of sports promotion
and development over the last three years
👉 Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award:

◎ Tenzing Norgay ➔ Tenzing Norgay was an Indian of Nepali origin, and Kiwi
mountaineer Edmund Hillary were the first two men to scale Mount Everest, the
world’s highest peak.
◎ Informal Part ➔ Since 2004, this Award has also been given out along with the six
National Sports Awards, making it an informal part of the list.
◎ Award ➔ Generally, 1 Award is given in four categories namely, Land Adventure,
Water (Sea) Adventure, Air Adventure and Life Time Achievement for adventure
activities on Land, Sea and Air.
◎ Duration ➔ Achievements for the last 3 years are considered for the 3 categories
namely Land Adventure, Water (Sea) Adventure, Air Adventure and for Life Time
Achievement award, the achievement of an entire career is considered.
◎ Objective ➔
○ To recognise outstanding achievements in the field of adventure activities or
sports on land, sea and air.
○ Encourage young people to develop the spirit of endurance, risk-taking,
cooperative teamwork and quick, ready and effective reflexes in challenging
situations.
Sister City Relationship Between Janakpur And Ayodhya
Nepal and India to establish a sister city relationship between Janakpur and
Ayodhya.
👉 About
● In a program organised by the Chamber of India,
hosted by the Nepal Embassy, Janakpur Mayor
expressed his desire to establish sister city
relationship between Janakpur and Ayodhya.
● In 2014, an agreement was signed between the
two countries for the development of Janakpur
and Ayodhya as twin cities.
◎ The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways announced the construction of

“Ram Janaki Marg” to link Janakpur and Ayodhya for which the government of
India allocated IRs. 2,000 crore in 2015
👉 What is a Sister City?

◎ A sister city connection is an extensive, long-term collaboration between two
towns in different nations.
◎ Once the top elected official from each nation signs a declaration to become
sister cities, a relationship is formally acknowledged.
◎ Every sister city organization is autonomous and focuses on the themes and
activities that are significant to them and their community, such as projects and
exchanges in the fields of government, business, trade, education, and culture.
👉 Janakpur- Ayodhya:
◎ Birthplace ➔ Janakpur(capital of Mithila) is regarded as the birthplace of
Goddess Sita while Ayodhya(capital of koshal) as the birthplace of Lord Ram.
◎ Significance ➔
○ Basis of Nepal- India ties: The marriage ties between Goddess Sita and Lord
Ram in Janakpur during the Ramayana period is the foundation of
relationship in present time too.
○ Holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
Pantoea Tagorei
New species of bacteria discovered by Visva- Bharati researchers being
named after Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore as “Pantoea Tagorei”.
👉 About
◎ Analysis on the samples suggest discovery of a
new species of bacteria.
◎ Characteristics ➔ The bacteria solubilizes
potassium and phosphorus and replenishes
nitrogen exhibiting properties of aiding in
enhanced plant growth.
Pantoea Tagorei
◎ Field analysis ➔ The bacteria has been introduced to farmers in and around the
coal mines and they have expressed satisfaction with the positive results.
◎ Application ➔
○ A significant stride toward fostering environmentally friendly and sustainable
agricultural methods.
○ Can help revive degraded lands.
○ Promote organic farming.
Pantoea Tagorei
👉 Rabindranath Tagore:
◎ About ➔ Born in 1861 to Devendranath Tagore, he was a poet, short-story writer,
music composer, playwright, novelist, and a painter.
◎ Honours ➔
○ He was knighted by the ruling British Government in 1915, but resigned the
honour as a protest against British policies in India.
○ Won India its first Nobel Price in literature for his collection of poems “Gitanjali”
◎ Notable works ➔
○ Poems: Sonar Tari (1894), Gitanjali (1910) , Gitimalya (1914)
○ Plays: Dakghar (1912), Achalayatan , Muktadhara (1922)
○ short stories and novels: among them Gora (1910), Ghare-Baire (1916) , and
Yogayog (1929)
Pantoea Tagorei
◎ He also started an experimental school (now Visva Bharati university) at

Shantiniketan (accorded world Heritage Site status by UNESCO) where he tried his
Upanishadic ideals of education.
Sub-Schemes Under RAMP Programme
Recently, the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises has launched
three sub-schemes under the aegis of the RAMP (Raising and Accelerating
MSME Productivity) programme.
👉 About
● The three sub-schemes include ➔
1. MSME Green Investment and Financing for
Transformation Scheme (MSE GIFT Scheme)
2. MSE Scheme for Promotion and Investment in Circular
Economy (MSE SPICE Scheme)
3. MSE Scheme on Online Dispute Resolution for Delayed
Payments.
👉 About the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP)

Programme:
◎ It is a World Bank-supported Central Sector Scheme.
◎ Administrative and Functional Body in India: National MSME Council
◎ Aim ➔ Improving access to market and credit
○ Strengthening institutions and governance at the Centre and State
○ Improving Centre-State linkages and partnerships
○ Addressing issues of delayed payments
○ Greening of MSMEs
◎ Key Objectives ➔
○ To accelerate centre-state collaboration in MSME promotion and
development
○ Enhance the effectiveness of existing schemes of the MSME Ministry for
technology upgradation
○ Strengthen the receivable financing market for MSMEs
○ Enhance the effectiveness of Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and
Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
○ Promote guarantee for greening initiatives of MSEs and women-owned MSEs
👉 Various Sub-Schemes under RAMP Programme:
The MSME GIFT Scheme The MSE SPICE Scheme MSE ODR Scheme
Objective: To help MSMEs Objective: To support Objective: To synergise

adopt green technology circular economy projects legal support with modern
with interest subvention through credit subsidy and IT tools and Artificial
and credit guarantee realize the dream of the Intelligence to address
support. MSME sector towards zero delayed payments for Micro
emissions by 2070. and Small Enterprises.
Implementing Agency: Implementing Agency: Implementing Agency:

Small Industries Small Industries National Informatics Centre
Development Bank of India Development Bank of India Services Inc. (NICSI)
(SIDBI) (SIDBI)
Namdapha Flying Squirrel -> IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable.
R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine -> developed by Bharat biotech

International Ltd.
IMF -> IMF financing helps member countries tackle balance of payments
problems.
Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme -> World

Bank-supported Central Sector Scheme.
Project PRAYAS -> To facilitate safe, orderly and regular migration for
Indian workers and students.
Pantoea Tagorei -> discovery of a new species of bacteria
Dronacharya Award -> given for good performance over a period of the
previous four years.
Practice Question
‘National Mathematics Day’ is celebrated every year to commemorate who among
the following mathematicians?
A. Aryabhata
B. Srinivasa Ramanujan
C. Satyendranath Bose
D. Brahmagupta
Practice Question
With reference to Prix Versailles, consider the following statements:
1. It is announced each year at UNESCO.

2. It is announced in memory of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
With reference to the initiatives undertaken for the implementation of the New
Educational Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), consider the following statements:
1. PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) has been launched for upgradation of schools.
2. National Mission for Mentoring (NMM) has been launched to provide mentoring to
school teachers.
3. Samagra Shiksha Scheme has been fully aligned with the recommendation of NEP
2020.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
◎ Central Government, State and UT Governments have taken several initiatives for
the implementation of National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).
◎ Statement 1 is correct: In School Education, a number of initiatives have been taken,

such as:
• PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) for upgradation of schools.
• National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy
(NIPUN Bharat).
• PM e-VIDYA for digital/online/on-air education.
• DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing) as One Nation One Digital
Platform.
Practice Question
◎ Statement 2 is correct: The National Mission for Mentoring (NMM) has also been
introduced to create a large pool of outstanding professionals who are willing to
provide mentoring to school teachers.
◎ NMM is being piloted in 30 Central schools. Also, a school volunteer management
program, namely Vidyanjali has been started to strengthen Government and
Government aided schools through community and private sector involvement
across the country.
◎ Statement 3 is correct: Samagra Shiksha Scheme has been fully aligned with the
recommendation of NEP 2020, with a total financial outlay of Rs. 2,94,283.04 crore,
which includes a Central share of Rs. 1,85,398.32 crore. PM Poshan Shakti Nirman
Yojna has also been aligned with the recommendation of NEP 2020.
Practice Question
With reference to World Health Organization (WHO) vaccine prequalification,
1. A thorough evaluation of data, sample testing, and WHO-inspection of

manufacturing sites are a prerequisite for the vaccine to be included in WHO List
of Prequalified Vaccines.
2. WHO vaccine prequalification ensures that vaccines used in global immunisation
programmes are safe and effective.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
◎ Statement 1 is correct: If a vaccine has undergone a thorough evaluation of
relevant data, testing of samples and WHO inspection of relevant manufacturing
sites — and the outcome is positive — it is included in the WHO List of
Prequalified Vaccines. The WHO also tests the vaccine’s suitability for the target
population, usability with appropriate concomitant products and compliance with
operational specifications for packaging and presentation.
◎ Statement 2 is correct: Achieving WHO vaccine prequalification ensures that

vaccines used in global immunisation programmes are safe and effective within
their conditions of use in the targeted health systems. WHO evaluates multiple
products for prequalification each year and core to this work is ensuring greater
access to safe, effective and quality health products.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
26-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
26-December-2023
‘Dunki’ andIndia’s
immigration:
Green How the first modern
Hydrogen passports evolved?
Partnerships
The recently released film ‘Dunki’ focuses on the issue of immigration.
👉 About
● The title Dunki is taken from the term “donkey
journey”, which refers to the long-winding, often
dangerous routes involved in dangerous
immigration.
● These trips are undertaken due to a lack of
requisite legal permits or financial resources.
● The film delves into historical context, highlighting
the recent origin of visas and passports.
‘Dunki’ and immigration: How the first modern passports evolved?
👉 Evolution of Passport:
◎ Purpose ➔ Passports function as permits and proofs of identity, allowing the
residents of one country to travel to another.
◎ Early Passport Systems ➔ In France, a permit system similar to ‘Passport System’
had been well established before the French Revolution of 1789.
○ Internal passports for local travel and overseas passports for foreign trips
were mandatory..
○ The French State utilized passports to prevent skilled workers migration and
capital outflow.
◎ Modern Passport ➔
○ Impact of World Wars on Passports:
○ World War prompted countries to secure their border and regulate entry.
○ In 1914, the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act was enacted and it
provided for naturalization of non-citizens and other laws related to
citizenship.
○ The first modern passport was a product of this Act.
◎ Internationalization ➔
○ League of Nations, held Conference on Passports and Customs Formalities to
regulate travel through passports in 1920.
○ The British passport model became widely adopted globally.
◎ 1920s Passports Legislation ➔
○ The 1920s saw laws on passports from countries such as the US.
○ The U.S. passed the Emergency Quota Act of 1921 and later, the Immigration
Act of 1924 limiting the inflow of immigrants.
👉 Passport in India:
◎ Origin ➔ As per the Ministry of External Affairs, there was no practice of issuing
Indian passports before the First World War.
◎ Adoption ➔ During the First World War (1914 to 1918), the British government
enacted the Defence of India Act making the possession of a passport necessary
for leaving and entering India.
👉 Types of Passports in India:

◎ Ordinary Passports ➔ These are blue-coloured passports for common citizens.
◎ Diplomat Passports ➔ These maroon-colored passports are issued to Indian
diplomats and senior government officials.
◎ Orange Passport ➔ These ECR passports were introduced in 2018 to identify

people who are at higher risk of getting exploited. People who have not studied
beyond class 10 are issued this ECR (immigration check required) category
passport.
◎ White Passport ➔ It’s one of the most powerful passports given to government
officials traveling abroad for official work.
Veerashaivas
The Veerashaiva Mahasabha has urged the community members not to

describe themselves as Hindu in the forthcoming population census.
👉 About
◎ A Sect Within Shaivism ➔ Veerashaivas are
worshippers of Lord Shiva. It is one sect within
Shaivism.
○ Shaivism is one of the major traditions
within Hinduism, and it primarily focuses on
the worship of Lord Shiva as the supreme
deity.
Veerashaivas
◎ Geographical Presence ➔ Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.

◎ Holy Places for Veerashaiva Community ➔ Kashi mutt, Rameshwaram Mutt,
Ujjaini Mutt, Rambhapura Mutt and Srishaila Mutt.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee
December 25th, the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari
Vajpayee is celebrated as “Good Governance Day”.
👉 About
● Birth ➔ He was born on December 25, 1924, in
the erstwhile princely state of Gwalior (now a
part of the Indian State of Madhya Pradesh).
● Death ➔ He died on 16th August 2018 due to
age-related illness.
◎ Timeline ➔
○ 1939 → He became a volunteer in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
○ 1942 → He actively joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
○ He joined the Quit India Movement of 1942.
○ 1944 → His activism started in Gwalior with Arya Kumar Sabha, the youth
wing of the Arya Samaj movement, of which he became the general
secretary in 1944.
○ 1951 → He started working for the newly founded political group Bharatiya
Jana Sangh.
○ 1968 → He became the National President of the Jana Sangh, after the
passing away of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya.
○ `Jana Sangh took the form of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
◎ He served three terms as the Prime Minister of India, in 1996, 1998-1999 and
1999- 2004.
○ No-Confidence Motion → On 17 April 1999, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
coalition government led by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee failed to
win a confidence vote in the Lok Sabha just by a single vote.
○ A Veteran Parliamentarian → He has been elected to the Lok Sabha nine
times and to the Rajya Sabha twice, a record by itself.
○ Shaper of India’s Policies → As India’s Prime Minister, Foreign Minister,
Chairperson of various important Standing Committees of Parliament and
Leader of the Opposition, he has been an active participant in shaping India’s
post-Independence domestic and foreign policy.
◎ Vajpayee’s Worldview ➔
○ Social → Social divisions in Indian society had led to the nation becoming an
easy victim of foreign aggression. He argued that the caste system
fragmented Indian society, leaving only the Kshatriyas with the right to bear
arms.
• Similarly, it denied almost everybody access to the Vedas and the
Upanishads.
○ Religion → The State should not discriminate on the basis of beliefs, rather it
should respect all belief systems since they were a part of society.
○ Economic: He ushered in an infrastructural revolution in India.
▪ He initiated the Delhi Metro rail as a mass transit system.
▪ He brought in National Highway Development Project leading to East
West North South Corridor or the Golden Quadrilateral,
▪ He envisaged and executed the first round of Pradhan Mantri Gram
○ Science: He coined the slogan: ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan’.
◎ His Achievements and Honors ➔
○ Successful Nuclear Test → In May 1998, India successfully conducted the
second series of underground nuclear tests in the Pokhran in Rajasthan.
○ Success of Kargil War → In 1999, the Indian military launched Operation
Vijay to push back Pakistani soldiers and militants who had captured
positions along the Kargil sector.
○ Diplomatic Gesture with Pakistan → He sought to improve diplomatic
relations with Pakistan by traveling to Lahore by bus to meet with Prime
Minister Nawaz Sharif.
○ Famous Hindi Speech in the United Nations → He was the first Indian foreign
minister in the United Nations during the Janata Party government who gave
a speech in Hindi to gave respect to his native language.
○ Bharat Ratna → Vajpayee was conferred India’s highest civilian honour
Bharat Ratna in 2015.
○ Padma Vibhushan → Vajpayee was conferred India’s second highest civilian
honour, the Padma Vibhushan in 1992.
○ Best Parliamentarian → In 1994, he was named India’s ‘Best
Parliamentarian.’
○ Bangladesh Liberation War Honour → It is the second-highest honour of
Bangladesh awarded to foreign dignitaries.
Ransomware Attacks on Indian Firms
IT services provider HCL Technologies, in its quarterly report, shared that it
was hit by a ransomware incident within a restricted cloud environment.
👉 About
• Despite being a leading software solution provider
in India, HCL Tech refrained from divulging specific
details of the attack, emphasizing the importance
of cybersecurity and data protection.
◎ A 2023 study conducted by Sophos, a
cybersecurity company, showed that 73% of
organizations reported being victims of
ransomware attacks, up from 57% the previous
year.
• Sophos Report (2023): 73% of Indian organizations experienced ransomware
attacks, a significant rise from the previous year.
• Impact: 77% reported successful encryption of data, leading to 44% opting to pay
the ransom, doubling their recovery costs compared to backup reliance.
• CERT-In's Findings: Recorded a 51% surge in ransomware incidents in H1 2022,
primarily targeting data centers, IT, and ITeS sectors.
• Data Value: IT entities store sensitive data, including intellectual property and
personal information, making them attractive targets.
• Risk of Data Leaks: Potential data leaks can devalue companies, threaten revenue
streams, and open up supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerabilities in Technology Adoption: Use of new tech and open architecture
exposes IT firms to evolving cyber threats, challenging robust security measures.
• Infosys McCamish Systems: U.S.-based
Infosys subsidiary faced a ransomware
attack, details undisclosed.
• Sun Pharma: Cyberattack affected
revenue, necessitating damage
control measures due to ransomware
infiltration.
• AIIMS: Ransomware attackers
demanded ₹200 crores in
cryptocurrency, causing significant
operational disruption.
UNESCO’s
India’s 2023 Prix Versailles
Green Hydrogen Partnerships
Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) Terminal 2, Bengaluru wins the
UNESCO’s 2023 Prix Versailles award.
👉 About
● The awards were first conceptualised in 2015
are presented by UNESCO annually to honour
the best achievements in the field of architecture
and designs worldwide.
UNESCO’s 2023 Prix Versailles
◎ Purpose ➔ It seeks to promote architectural production as a cultural driver for

intelligent sustainable development and focuses on acknowledging innovation
and creativity along with a reflection of local heritage in the designs to promote
ecological efficiency and values of social interaction.
👉 Terminal 2 or T2 of KIA:
◎ About ➔ Recently inaugurated in 2022, T2 is also known as Terminal in a Garden
and is now recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful airport terminal.
◎ Area ➔ built over an area of 255,661 square metres
◎ Foundational pillars ➔ The airport’s conceptualisation is visioned on 4 pillars of,
○ Technological leadership: Embraced in engineered bamboo, the terminal’s
interiors offer a blend of functionality with aesthetic appeal.
○ Terminal in a garden: The terminal’s niche is that it features a spacious
indoor garden with rammed-earth walls and waterfalls, as well as hanging
planted bells appearing as a garden.
○ Environmental and ecological stewardship: T2 has the distinction of
becoming the world’s largest terminal pre-certified with a Platinum LEED
rating by the US Green Building Council before the formal commencement of
the airport and also garnered the Platinum certification under the IGBC
Green New Building rating system.
○ Celebration of Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture: As a part of BIAL’s Art
Programme T2 possesses interiors that has an insightfully curated art and
décor elements which showcase Karnataka's culture and heritage.
👉 The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural

Organization (UNESCO)
◎ It is a specialised agency of the United Nations
◎ Aim ➔ Is to promote world peace and security through international
cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture.
◎ Membership ➔ 194 member states including India
◎ Headquarter ➔ In Paris, France.
Practice Question
With reference to Prix Versailles, consider the following statements:
1. It is announced each year at UNESCO.

2. It is announced in memory of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles.

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Orange Passport -> most powerful passports given to government officials

traveling abroad for official work.
Veerashaivas -> are worshippers of Lord Shiva and is one sect within
Shaivism.
Indian Standard Time -> calculated from Patna, Bihar which lies at 82°30’E
longitude.
Project PRAYAS -> To facilitate safe, orderly and regular migration for
Indian workers and students.
Pantoea Tagorei -> discovery of a new species of bacteria
Dronacharya Award -> given for good performance over a period of the
previous four years.
Practice Question
Consider the following countries:
1. Argentina
2. Bolivia
3. Chile
4. Peru
Which of the countries given above are part of the famous ‘Lithium Triangle’ of the
world?
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Practice Question
“ He made his political debut at the 1886 Calcutta session of the Indian National
Congress. He also helped in the establishment of the ‘Great Society of Hindus’. He
also served as the vice-chancellor of the Banaras Hindu University. He also started the
Hindi weekly journal known as Abhyudaya”.
Who among the following personalities is best described by the above paragraph?
A. Jai Prakash Narayan
B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
C. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
D. Madan Mohan Malaviya
Practice Question
‘National Mathematics Day’ is celebrated every year to commemorate who among
the following mathematicians?
A. Aryabhata
B. Srinivasa Ramanujan
C. Satyendranath Bose
D. Brahmagupta
Practice Question
◎ Every year, on December 22nd, the birth anniversary of legendary mathematician
Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887-1920), is celebrated as National Mathematics Day.
◎ In 2012, then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared December 22 as National
Mathematics Day in honor of the great man.
• Birth: He was born on 22nd December, 1887 in the town of Erode in Madras
Presidency (now Tamil Nadu), to a Brahmin Iyengar family.
• Excelled in Mathematical Aptitude: By the age of 14, he was completing
mathematics examinations in half the allotted time, and exploring complex topics
way beyond the capability of an average 14-year old.
Practice Question
◎ “The Man Who Knew Infinity”:
• His biography by Robert Kanigel depicts his life and journey to fame.
◎ A film of the same name was released in 2015 in which British-Indian actor Dev
Patel played Ramanujan.
Practice Question
• Infinite Series for pi: In 1914, Ramanujan found a formula for infinite series for pi.
Finding an accurate approximation of π (pi) has been one of the most important
challenges in the history of mathematics.
• Game Theory: His contribution to game theory is purely based on intuition and
natural talent and is unmatched to this day.
• Mock Theta Function: He elaborated on the mock theta function, a concept in the
field of modular forms of mathematics.
• Ramanujan Number: 1729 is known as the Ramanujan number which is the sum
of the cubes of two numbers 10 and 9, 1 and 12.
• Mathematical fields such as complex analysis, number theory, infinite series,
continued fractions, Riemann series, elliptic integrals, hypergeometric series, and
the functional equations of the zeta function.
• He discovered his own theorems and independently compiled 3,900 results.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
28-December-2023
MeitY Advisory to Digital Intermediaries
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently
advised all intermediaries to ensure compliance with the existing IT rules.
About MeitY Advisory:11 listed user harms

◎ Mandate  It mandates intermediaries to
communicate their rules, regulations,
privacy policy, and user agreement in the
user’s preferred language.
◎ Obligations  Digital Intermediaries must also ensure reasonable efforts to

prevent users from hosting, displaying, uploading, modifying, publishing,
transmitting, storing, updating, or sharing any information related to the content
prohibited by digital intermediaries.
◎ Aim  This rule ensures platforms identify and promptly remove misinformation,
false or misleading content, and material impersonating others, including
deepfakes.
◎ Content Prohibited  The advisory mandates that intermediaries should clearly
and precisely communicate prohibited content, particularly those specified under
Rule 3(1)(b) of the IT Rules to users, including through its terms of service and user
agreements.
○ Rule 3(1)(b)(v): It explicitly prohibits the dissemination of misinformation.
○ The same must be expressly informed to the user during the first registration
and as regular reminders.
◎ Penal Provisions  The advisory emphasizes that digital intermediaries must
ensure users are informed about penal provisions, including those in the Indian
Penal Code (IPC) 1860, the IT Act 2000, etc. in case of Rule 3(1)(b) violations.
○ Further, the terms of service and user agreements must highlight that
intermediaries are under obligation to report legal violations to the law
enforcement agencies.
Associated Terms:
◎ Digital Intermediary  It operates in a digital space that allows users or customers
to interact and transact digitally.
○ They currently include internet service providers, cloud service providers,
consumer-facing social media platforms, etc.
○ Example- Instagram and Twitter.
◎ Misinformation  It is incorrect or misleading information. It represents a deep
threat to the safety and trust of users on the Internet.
◎ Deepfake  It is misinformation powered by Artificial Intelligence. It further
amplifies the threat to the safety and trust of our Digital Nagriks.
Ammonia gas leak from Chennai Fertilizer unit
Several people were hospitalized after Ammonia gas leaked from a fertilizer
manufacturing unit in Ennore, north Chennai.
About
● Ammonia or NH3 is a compound of Nitrogen
and Hydrogen. It is a colourless gas with a
pungent and penetrating odour. It is highly
reactive and is a soluble alkaline gas.
● Mode of Production  It can be produced both
through natural means as well as
anthropogenically.
○ Natural: Produced in soil from bacterial processes. It is also produced
naturally from decomposition of organic matter, including plants, animals
and animal wastes. Bacteria found in the intestines can produce ammonia,
also, a small amount of ammonia is generated when lightning strikes.
○ Commercial: Through steam reforming of natural gas and coal gasification.
◎ Uses  It serves as a starting material for the production of many commercially
important nitrogen compounds such as:
◎ Fertilizers  Urea, (H2N)2C=O, is the most commonly used source of nitrogen for
fertilisers worldwide. It can be applied directly into soil on farm fields for crops,
lawns, and plants.
○ As household and industrial cleaners
○ In the form of ammonium salts, such as ammonium nitrate, ammonium
sulfate, and various ammonium phosphates.
○ In manufacturing commercial explosives
○ As a refrigerant and coolant
Ammonia as a Pollutant:
◎ Emission source  Agriculture, including animal husbandry because of NH3-
based fertilizer applications. Other sources include industrial processes, vehicular
emissions and volatilization from soils and oceans.
◎ Effects 
○ It Increases the Biological Oxygen Demand of water by reducing oxygen
availability for its aquatic life.
○ Source of nutrient pollution in water bodies leading to eutrophication due to
excessive agricultural field runoff.
○ Excessive urea usage leads to soil acidification.
○ Prolonged exposure of containers to fire or heat may result in violent
rupturing and rocketing.
◎ Ammonia as a Toxic Gas 
○ Direct toxic damage to leaves and alters the susceptibility of plants to frost,
drought and pathogens (including insect pests and invasive species).
○ Long-term exposure to low concentrations or short-term exposure to high
concentrations may result in adverse health conditions from inhalation,
which manifest as burning nose, throat and respiratory tract irritation.
Ennore:
◎ Ennore is bounded by the Korttalaiyar River, Ennore Creek and the Bay of Bengal
is a neighbourhood in Chennai. The creek separates south Ennore from north
Ennore ( covers significant portions of North Chennai Thermal Power Station and
Ennore Port.)
○ Ennore Creek is a backwater located in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu. It is
bound on the north by the Pulicat Lake and to the south by the Manali
marshlands.
TansenGreen
India’s Festival in Madhya
Hydrogen Pradesh
Partnerships
Guinness world record for Largest tabla ensemble set in Gwalior during the
Tansen festival.
About
● The tabla ensemble is a performance by 1,282 tabla players
with three generations of tabla players participating in the
event.
● They performed at the 99th International Tansen Samaroh in
Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh
● Celebrating Tabla Day  The Madhya Pradesh government
has decided to observe December 25 as ‘Tabla Day’ to
commemorate the Guinness Price and honour all musicians.
Tansen Festival in Madhya Pradesh
Tansen Music Festival or the Tansen Sangeet Sammelan:

◎ About  It is a unique four-five day festival, dedicated to the pillar of Indian
music, the great Tansen. It is held at his tomb in Gwalior in the village of Behat
every year.
○ The Department of Culture and the Government of Madhya Pradesh started
the festival to pay tribute to the Indian classical music maestro, Mian
Tansen.
○ Rashtriya Tansen Samman: It is an award of the highest honour in the Indian
classical music industry, presented to an individual who has made a
considerable contribution to classical music.
Mian Tansen
◎ Tansen was a vocalist, instrumentalist and music composer credited as the
founder of the Hindustani classical music. He was one of the Navratnas (Nine
gems) in Emperor Akbar's court.
◎ He was titled Tansen by Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior and Emperor Akbar gave him
the title of Mian
◎ Teacher  Swami Haridas and Muhammad Ghaus.
◎ Style  Tansen’s compositions were primarily based on Hindu Puranas and
praise of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu and Ganesha. He employed the Dhrupad
style in his composition. Later on, he also performed eulogies on kings.
◎ Notable contributions  He composed Ragas such as Bhairav, DarbariTodi,

DarbariKanada, Malhar, Deepak, Sarang and Rageshwari which is considered as
the foundation of classical music. He is also credited with popularising the central
Asian 'Plucked Rabab'.
India’s CAD to 1% of GDP in Q2
RBI has reported that India’s current account deficit (CAD) of 2nd Quarter
FY24 declined to $8.3 billion, which is 1% of the country’s Gross Domestic
Product (GDP).
About Balance of Payment (BoP)

◎ Definition  BoP is a bookkeeping system that
summarises the country’s economic transaction
with other countries of the world for a particular
period.
◎ Impact  BoP keeps track of the trade and
investments and transfers in a country with the rest
of the world.
◎ Components  The BoP is composed of Capital and Current Accounts.
Current Account
◎ Definition  The current Account is the account that records the goods exports
and imports, as well as trade in services and transfer payments.
◎ Impact  The current account of a country keeps track of the country's
transactions with other countries.
◎ Components  The current account is made up of visible trade( Goods), invisible
trade (Services), transfer payments, net factor income, and remittances.
Capital Account:
◎ Definition  Capital Account is the account that keeps track of Borrowing and
Lending of Capital assets and non-financial assets between the countries.
◎ Impact  The capital account of a country keeps track of the country's investment
and loans with other countries.
◎ Components  The Capital account is made up of borrowings, lendings and
investments.
Try this PYQ 2014
With reference to Balance of Payments, which of the following constitutes/ constitute

the Current Account?
1. Balance of trade
2. Foreign assets
3. Balance of invisibles
4. Special Drawing Rights
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 4
India, Russia sign pacts on future units of Kudankulam plant
External Affairs Minister of India has announced that an important
agreement related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant has been made
with Russia during his five-day official visit.
About
● Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is being built
in Tamil Nadu with Russia's technical
assistance. The plant is expected to have an
installed capacity of 6,000 MW of electricity.
● The construction began in March 2002 but was
halted following protests by fishermen fearing
nuclear disaster.
◎ Operational Status  Since February 2016, the first power unit of the
Kudankulam NPP has been steadily operating at its design capacity of 1,000 MW.
◎ Design of Reactor  Water-water energetic reactor (WWER) is a water-cooled
water-moderated energy reactor.
◎ Completion  The plant is expected to fully operate in 2027.
◎ Operators  Russian state company and Nuclear Power Corporation of India
Limited
India - Russia Nuclear Relations:

◎ Support  After the 1974 Pokhran Test, the Soviet Union supported India despite
the global nuclear isolation.
◎ Material  USSR supplied heavy water for Canadian-built reactors and provided
fuel for the BWRs at Tarapur, Maharashtra
◎ 2002 MoU  Nuclear cooperation began when a new Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) on peaceful uses of nuclear energy was signed.
○ The first power generation project under this —the 1000 MW PWRs at
Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu —was set up in October 2013.
◎ Partnership  The joint construction of units 3 & 4 and units 5 & 6 at
Kudankulam.
◎ Future Prospect  Russia's agreement to supply six more reactors to India
solidifies the long-term prospects.
◎ Diversification  The recent delivery of germanium-68/gallium-68 (Ge-68/Ga-68)
generators that play a vital role in nuclear medicine.
Ammonia or NH3 -> It is highly reactive and is a soluble alkaline gas.
Capital Account -> made up of borrowings, lendings and investments.
Mian Tansen -> He was one of the Navratnas (Nine gems) in Emperor
Humayun's court.
Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant -> Gujrat.

Ammonia or NH3 -> It is highly reactive and is a soluble alkaline gas. True
Capital Account -> made up of borrowings, lendings and investments. True
Mian Tansen -> He was one of the Navratnas (Nine gems) in Emperor False
Humayun's court.
Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant -> Gujrat. False

Prelim Booster
News Discussion
29-December-2023
Jal Jeevan Mission
Approximately 72% of rural families now have access to tap water
connections, representing a significant advancement towards the Jal Jeevan
Mission (JJM).
About
◎ Aim  It envisions providing safe and
adequate drinking water through individual
household tap connections by 2024 to all
households in rural India.
◎ Objectives 
○ To provide Functional Tap Connection
(FHTC) to every rural household.
Jal Jeevan Mission
○ To prioritize the provision of FHTCs in quality-affected areas, villages in
drought-prone and desert areas, Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) villages,
etc.
○ To provide functional tap connection to Schools, Anganwadi centres, GP
buildings, Health centres, wellness centres and community buildings
○ To monitor the functionality of tap connections.
◎ Key components 
○ Sustainability Measures: It also implements source sustainability measures as
mandatory elements, such as recharge and reuse through grey water
management, water conservation, and rainwater harvesting.
○ Community Approach: The Jal Jeevan Mission is based on a community
approach to water and includes extensive Information, Education and
communication as a key mission component.
Jal Jeevan Mission
○ Piped Water Supply Infrastructure: Development of in-village piped water
supply infrastructure to provide tap water connection to every rural
household
○ Technological Interventions: Removing contaminants where water quality is
an issue.
Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen)[SBM(G)]:

◎ It was launched on 2nd October 2014 to achieve universal sanitation coverage,
improve cleanliness and eliminate open defecation in India by 2nd October 2019.
◎ Under the mission, all villages, States/UTs of India declared themselves ODF by 2
October 2019.
Jal Jeevan Mission
Phase II of the SBM(G):

◎ The Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen Phase-II, launched in February 2020, aims at
declaring all villages ODF Plus by the end of 2024.
◎ It focuses on sustainability of Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and Solid and
Liquid Waste Management (SLWM) in rural India.
◎ It ensures that no one is left behind and everyone uses a toilet.
◎ SBM(G) Phase-II is being implemented from 2020-21 to 2024-25 in a mission mode.
Amrit Bharat Express
Recently, the Railway Minister inspected the first Amrit Bharat train,
scheduled to be launched on December 30 by the Prime Minister in
Ayodhya.
About
● Amrit Bharat Express  Originally known as
Vande Sadharan during the design stage, the
Amrit Bharat Express is designed to be a train
for the common man, combining features from
the Vande Bharat Express.
● Manufacture  At the Integral Coach Factory
(ICF) in Chennai.
◎ Production  20 to 30 trains of the Amrit Bharat model will be produced monthly,

following a similar strategy to the Vande Bharat trains.
◎ Features of Amrit Bharat Express 
○ It has a high speed potential of 130 kmph with aerodynamically designed
locomotives.
○ Special attention has been given to designing water-saving toilets.
○ Modified engines for the comfort of loco pilots.
○ It is a non-air-conditioned train, thus the space between the two coaches is
fully covered to minimize air pressure. Later, the trains will offer general
class configurations extending up to AC-II.
○ The general coaches also have cushions for passenger comfort.
○ A specially-designed ramp allows easy wheelchair access.
○ Other amenities include charging points and spaces for water bottles.
○ Comprising 22 coaches, including 8 general second-class coaches for
unreserved passengers, 12 second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches, and two
guard compartments.
Technologies Associated with Amrit Bharat Express:

◎ Push-Pull Technology  This technology involves two engines, one at the front
and the other at the end of the train. It is equipped with a WAP5 locomotive at
each end.
○ While the front engine pulls the train, the rear engine pushes it forward,
resulting in improved acceleration and deceleration.
○ Push–pull is a configuration for locomotive-hauled trains, allowing them to
be driven from either end of the train.
◎ Distributed Power Technology  In this technology, every second or third coach

has a motor running on electricity supplied through overhead equipment. Vande
Bharat trains are also based on distributed power technology.
◎ Semi-Permanent Coupler  This minimizes jerks during the train's starts and
stops, ensuring safer operation.
○ The new coupler replaces the older technology used in the 1990s, which
often caused discomfort to passengers due to jerks.
Ionospheric
India’ssecrets
Green traced in the
Hydrogen White continent
Partnerships
The ionospheric density at Bharati station in Antarctica showed variations
despite the continuous sunlight in summer and prolonged darkness in
winter, as observed over a decade.
About
● A team of scientists from the Indian Institute of
Geomagnetism (IIG), have examined the long-term
seasonal ionospheric observations at Indian
Antarctica station Bharati between 2010 and 2022
and also with solar activity following Sun’s 11-year
cycle.
● The study was published in the Journal of Polar
Science.
Ionospheric secrets traced in the White continent
About The Ionosphere:

◎ Structure  This layer is located between 80 km and 400 km.
○ It is not a distinct layer, Instead, the ionosphere overlaps the mesosphere,
thermosphere, and exosphere where high-energy radiation from the Sun has
knocked electrons loose from their parent atoms and molecules.
○ It is divided into three regions or layers: the F-Layer, E-Layer, and D-Layer.
◎ Ions  The electrically charged atoms and molecules that are formed in this way
are called ions, giving the ionosphere its name and endowing this region with
some special properties.
◎ Ionization of Atoms  This layer is characterized by ionization of atoms. It’s a very
active part of the atmosphere, and it grows and shrinks depending on the energy
it absorbs from the sun.
○ It is an electrically conducting region responsible for reflecting radio signals
back to Earth.
◎ Temperature  An increase in Temperature can be witnessed with an increase in
height because of radiation from the sun.
◎ The aurora, or Northern Lights and Southern Lights, occur in the parts of the
thermosphere that correspond to layers of the ionosphere.
◎ Radio waves transmitted from the earth are reflected back to the earth by this
layer
Bharati Station
◎ Bharati is a permanent Antarctic research station commissioned by India on 18
March 2012.
○ Aim: to facilitate year-round scientific research activity by the Indian
Antarctic program.
◎ It is India's third Antarctic research facility and one of two active Indian research
stations, alongside Maitri.
◎ It is located between Thala Fjord & Quilty bay, east of Stornes Peninsula in
Antarctica.
One Nation One Ration Card Scheme
Ration card portability has recorded an upward trajectory with over 28
crore transactions recorded.
About
◎ About  It facilitates nationwide portability of ration
cards under National Food Security Act (NFSA).
◎ Objective  To empower poor beneficiaries
especially migrants, to avail subsidised ration across
country.
◎ Nodal agency  Department of Food And Public
Distribution, Ministry Of Consumer Affairs
◎ Process  Nationwide portability of ration cards is enabled through,

○ The implementation of IT-driven system by installation of ePoS devices at Fair
Price Shops.
○ Seeding of Aadhaar number of beneficiaries with their ration cards
○ Operationalization of biometrically authenticated ePoS transactions in the
State/UTs.
◎ Features 
○ All beneficiaries, especially migrants can claim either full or part foodgrains
from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) in the country through an existing ration card
with biometric/Aadhaar authentication.
○ Family members of the beneficiary can now claim the balance of foodgrains
on the same ration card.
○
○ The beneficiaries now have the option to choose their own dealer. If the
beneficiary suspects foul play in allocation, they can now switch to another
FPS shop instantly.
○ Aadhaar authentication can be done by using just their finger prints or iris
based identification. No need to bring ration card or aadhar card always.
Japan’s moon-landing
India’s Greenattempt willPartnerships
Hydrogen affect Chandrayaan 4
Japan’s Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) spacecraft, whose

success or failure will affect the upcoming Chandrayaan-4 Mission.
About
● SLIM is a small-scale exploration lander designed for
pinpoint landings on the Moon’s surface.
● It will test the effectiveness of reduction in the size
and weight of equipment used in Moon landings,
and investigation into the Moon’s origins Weighed
590 kg at launch.
Japan’s moon-landing attempt will affect Chandrayaan 4
◎ It has been built and launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
on September 7, 2023
◎ SLIM was launched together with XRISM, a next-generation X-ray space
telescope, onboard an H-2A rocket.
How the SLIM mission will impact the Chandrayaan-4:

◎ The findings of the SLIM, will help guide the trajectory and technology behind the
Chandrayaan-4.
◎ If the low-weight mission proves successful, India can adopt these technologies
through partnership with JAXA.
Chandrayaan-4:
◎ Objective  The Chandrayaan-4 spacecraft will travel to the moon, land, collect
samples, and then connect to another module in space. The module will then
return to Earth orbit.
○ As the two modules approach Earth, they will separate, with one part
returning to Earth and the other will keep orbiting the planet.
◎ Chandrayaan-4 plans to land a much heavier 350 kg rover on the moon.
○ In comparison, the Chandrayaan-3 rover weighed only 30kg.
◎ The mission aims to perform a challenging landing on the moon's rim, an
unexplored region.
○ The rover will also explore a larger area, measuring 1000m x 1000m,
compared to Chandrayaan-3's 500m x 500m.
◎ LUPEX will be an Indian-Japan joint enterprise (however, while JAXA has

approved LUPEX, India is yet to) with the earliest launch date in 2026.
○ The Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX) is a joint mission of the Indian
and Japanese space agencies to explore the moon’s Polar region.
○ The technologies JAXA will test with SLIM, like a feature-matching algorithm
and navigation systems, will be crucial for this aspect of LUPEX.
○ It will explore an area closer to the moon’s south pole than Chandrayaan 3
did
UPI Tap & Pay
NPCI has introduced a new feature in UPI Payments - UPI Tap and Pay.
About
◎ It uses NFC to capture the payee’s UPI ID/VPA to
make the payments through UPI
◎ Once the UPI ID is captured, payment can be made
using UPI PIN or UPI Lite.
UPI Tap & Pay
What is Near Field Communication (NFC):

◎ It is a short-range wireless connectivity technology that allows devices in proximity
to communicate with each other.
◎ Uses  It allows quick exchange of information with a single touch, to pay,
exchange information like contact cards and share documents.
◎ Technology  It uses electromagnetic radio fields, to enable communication.
◎ Hardware Based  This technology requires a chip in both the devices to enable
NFC communication.
UPI Tap & Pay
What is Unified Payments Interface (UPI)?

◎ It is a payment system that was launched by National Payments Corporation of
India(NPCI) in 2016.
◎ It allows round the clock money transfer between two bank accounts without
knowing the account details.
◎ It requires all the customers to register with NPCI through a virtual payment
address called UPI ID.
◎ This has increased the digitalisation of payments and allows the customer to pay
directly to the bank account of the merchant, without going through a wallet.
Muslim League Jammu Kashmir declared as 'Unlawful Association'
Ministry of Home Affairs declares Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat

Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA declared as 'Unlawful Association' under the
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967.
About UAPA
● The UAPA is an anti terrorism law first passed in
1967, aimed at protecting the sovereignty and
integrity of nation by preventing activities that pose
a threat to it.
● Objective  It provides for more effective
prevention of certain unlawful activities of
individuals and associations and for dealing with
terrorist activities and other connected matters.
◎ Designation as a terrorist organisation 

○ Commits or participates in acts of terrorism,
○ Promotes terrorism
○ Prepares for terrorism
○ Is otherwise involved in terrorism.
○ The Bill also empowers the government to designate individuals as terrorists
on the same grounds.
◎ Punishments  Highest punishment is death penalty and life imprisonment.
◎ Coverage  Offense and offender can be both Indian and foreign nationals. The
offense committed on foreign land can also attract UAPA provisions.
◎ Investigation  To be conducted by officers of the rank of Deputy Superintendent

or Assistant Commissioner of Police or above. Officers of the NIA, of the rank of
Inspector or above are empowered to investigate cases under UAPA ( National
Investigation Agency (NIA) is functioning as the Central Counter-Terrorism Law
Enforcement Agency in India)
◎ Seizure of property  Prior approval of the Director General of Police/ NIA needs
to be taken by the investigating officer to seize properties that may be connected
with terrorism.
Migration
India’s and
Green MobilityPartnerships
Hydrogen Agreement
Union Cabinet gives ex-post facto approval to the Ministry of External

Affairs proposal to sign and ratify the Migration and Mobility Agreement
between India and Italy.
About
● Objective  It is to promote people-to-people
connections, foster mobility amongst students,
skilled workers, business people and young
professionals and to strengthen cooperation on
issues related to irregular migration between
the two sides.
Migration and Mobility Agreement
Key Provisions of the Agreement:

◎ Visa quota to India  To lock-in the current Italian visa regime which includes
mechanisms for post study opportunities, internships, professional trainings
under the existing labour mobility pathways as per the Flows Decree.
○ Flows Decree: It offers incremental reserved quotas for both seasonal and
non-seasonal workers.
○ Non seasonal Indian workers: the Italian side has reserved a quota of 5000,
6000 and 7000 in 2023, 2024 and 2025 respectively under the current Flows
Decree (earlier Total reserved quota was 12000).
○ Seasonal Indian workers: A quota of 3000, 4000 and 5000 for 2023, 2024 and
2025 respectively has been reserved (earlier Total reserved quota was
8000).
Migration and Mobility Agreement
◎ Joint working group 

○ A JWG is being formalised to discuss steps on further mobility pathways
between India and Italy through agreements on Youth Mobility and
Facilitation of Recruitment of Indian qualified professionals in the
healthcare and medical services sectors.
○ It will act as a monitoring mechanism by sharing relevant information,
evaluating implementation of Agreement. The JWG will meet periodically to
oversee implementation of the agreement.
◎ Temporary residence for skill training  Additional 12 month stay after the
completion of academic pursuits for professional training is granted to Indian
students.
Amrit Bharat Express -> It has a high speed potential of 250 kmph. False
Ionosphere -> Most of the aeroplanes fly in the Ionosphere. False
Bharati Station -> permanent Antarctic research station commissioned by True

India on 18 March 2012.
Near Field Communication -> short-range wireless connectivity True

technology.
Amrit Bharat Express -> It has a high speed potential of 250 kmph.
Ionosphere -> Most of the aeroplanes fly in the Ionosphere.
Bharati Station -> permanent Antarctic research station commissioned by

India on 18 March 2012.
Near Field Communication -> short-range wireless connectivity

technology.
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
30-December-2023
Prelim Booster
News Discussion
30-December-2023
82nd session of Indian History Congress
The 82nd Session of Indian History Congress(IHC) began at Kakatiya
University in Warangal.
👉 About
● Kakatiya University will host the Indian History
Congress after a 30 years gap.
● The IHC is a two day annual conference which begun
on 28th December and conclude on December 30.
● It will have a discussion panel on Dalit History and a
Panel on Deccan Past and Present among others. A
total of 1067 papers are set to be presented at the
event.
👉 Indian History Congress

◎ About ➔ It is the largest professional and academic body of Indian historians
with a membership of over 35000 historians; it is the oldest national organisation
of Indian historians.
◎ Establishment ➔ It was established under the name of Modern History Congress,
with its first session being held at Poona in 1935.
◎ The Bharata Itihasa Samshodhaka Mandala (BISM), founded by Vishwanath
Kashinath Rajwade ( with the support of K C Mehendale) in 1910 in Pune,
organised an All India Congress in 1935 to celebrate its silver jubilee
◎ The event organised in the assembly hall of Parasurambhau College, Pune, was a
resounding success. The Indian History Congress (IHC) was thus born with about
50 delegates
◎ Vision ➔ To study all aspects of history(political, economic, cultural, nationalist,

etc) and emphasize the integrative factors in the past.
○ To represent a secular and scientific approach to our past.
◎ Journal ➔ “The Proceedings of the Indian History Congress” is an annual journal
of IHC carrying research papers selected out of papers presented at its annual
sessions on all aspects and periods of Indian History
◎ Notable members ➔ Historians such as Mohammad Habib, Ram Sharan Sharma,
Satish Chandra, Bipan Chandra, Romila Thapar, Irfan Habib, Barun De, B. N.
Mukherjee, K. N. Panikkar
SEBI unveils norms for zero coupon instruments by NPOs
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued guidelines for
public issuance of ‘zero coupons zero principle’ instruments by not-for-
profit organisations (NPOs) and listing of such instruments on the Social
Stock Exchange (SSE).
👉 About
◎ Not Transferable ➔ Such instruments will be issued
in dematerialised form only and are not
transferable.
◎ Minimum Sizes ➔ The minimum issue size has
been set at Rs 50 lakh.
◎ The minimum application size at Rs 10,000.
○ The minimum subscription required to be achieved will be 75 per cent of the
funds proposed to be raised through issuing such instruments.
◎ Process for listing on SSE ➔
○ Filing of Draft Document: NPO must file the draft fundraising document with
the SSE through the lead manager and an application seeking in-principle
approval for listing the instrument on the SSE.
○ The SSE will provide its observation on the draft fundraising document to the
NPO within 30 days of filing the papers or receipt of clarification, if any,
sought by the exchange from the NPO, whichever is later.
○ NPO will incorporate the observations of the SSE in a draft document and file
the final papers to the SSE before opening the issue. The SSE must specify the
details in the fundraising document.
◎ Under-Subscription ➔ The funds will be refunded if the subscription is less than 75

per cent of the issue size.
◎ Maintenance of records ➔ SSE will be required to maintain the details of the
allotment following the issuance of zero coupon and zero principal instruments by
an NPO.
○ SSE will have to specify the additional norms concerning the issue procedure,
such as agreements with depositories, banks, duration for public issuance,
allocation methodology and any other ancillary matter related to the issue
procedure.
👉 About ‘Zero Coupon Zero Principle’ instruments:

◎ These are financial instruments that a non-profit organisation may use to raise
funds. When an entity issues these securities and raises money, it is not a loan but
a donation.
○ The borrowing entity does not have to pay interest—therefore zero coupon—
and does not have to pay the principal (zero principal) either.
○ Like any other debt instrument, it will come with a time duration.
◎ Any individual or corporate can buy the security through SSE once they are open
for business.
◎ The Finance Ministry had declared zero coupon zero principal instruments (ZCZP)
as securities for the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956.
◎ These instruments will be governed by rules by the SEBI.

◎ Significance ➔ It will help organizations and corporates to utilize their social
responsibility funds and support non-profit organizations more transparently.
👉 About SEBI
◎ It is the regulatory body for the securities and commodities market in India under
the ownership of the Finance Ministry.
◎ It was established in 1988 to protect investors' interests and promote the
development of the securities market.
○ It became autonomous and was given statutory status under the SEBI Act of
1992.
◎ It is a quasi-judicial and quasi-legislative body with the powers to draft regulations,

conduct enquiries, impose penalties, etc.
◎ SEBI Board consists of a Chairman for a 3-year term and several other Full-time and
Part-time members.
👉 About NPOs
◎ NPOs are legal entities that operate for the benefit of the public and society rather
than for profit.
Govt to Extend Duty Green
India’s Remission Benefits
Hydrogen to E-Commerce exports
Partnerships
The Union government will extend export benefits under its duty remission
scheme (RoDTEP) to e-commerce exports.
👉 About RoDTEP
● About ➔ The Scheme provides for refund of taxes,
duties and levies that exporters incur in the process
of manufacturing and distribution of goods.
● Under the scheme, a rebate is provided for all
hidden taxes at every level on the exported product
that has not been refunded under any other existing
scheme.
Govt to Extend Duty Remission Benefits to E-Commerce exports
◎ Budget ➔ For 2023-24, a budget of Rs 15,070 crore is made available with the
scheme already supporting USD 450 billion worth of exports at the cost of Rs
13,020 crore.
◎ The RoDTEP scheme is WTO compliant. This means that it does not violate any
international trade agreements.
◎ Tax range ➔ The refund rate under the scheme ranges from 0.5 per cent to 4.3
per cent of the product's value, and it varies depending on the product and the
country of export. Examples:
○ Textiles: 2.4% for exports to the United States
○ Machinery: 1.0% for exports to all countries
○ Agricultural products: 0.5% for exports to all countries
👉 Government Initiatives to Promote E-Commerce exports:

◎ Foreign Trade Policy of 2023, has raised the limit per consignment of goods
through e-commerce to Rs 10 lakh from Rs 5 lakh.
◎ Enabling e-commerce exports ➔ DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) and
Shiprocket has signed an MoU to hold capacity building and handholding sessions
as part of the ecommerce outreach under its Districts as Export Hubs Initiative.
○ DGFT will put in place an IT framework to enable the exporters for smooth
navigation.
○ An e-commerce export handbook for MSME was launched to serve as a
comprehensive guide for new entrepreneurs looking to export through the
ecommerce route.
○ District as Export Hubs Initiative: As part of the program, Amazon and DGFT
will co-create capacity building sessions, training and workshops for MSMEs
in districts identified by the DGFT.
• The initiative will link local producers even in rural and remote districts
with global supply chains.
○ Setting up export facilitating post-offices across the country.
○ Creating e-exports zones.
👉 Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)

◎ About ➔ It is an attached office of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
◎ Chaired by ➔ Director General of Foreign Trade
◎ Role ➔ It acts as facilitator and promotes exports/imports, keeping in view the
interests of the country.
Foreign trade policy
👉 About
● The new policy aims to triple India’s goods and
services exports to $2 trillion by 2030, from an
estimated $760 billion in 2022-23.
● It focuses on lowering costs for smaller firms and
promises swifter clearances.
◎ The policy also introduces an amnesty scheme for one-time settlement of default
in export obligation.
◎ The new policy will have no end date and it will be updated as and when
required.
○ It will allow adjustment based on the emerging world trade scenario and
industry feedback.
◎ While the policy will be open ended, the schemes sanctioned under it will be time
bound.
◎ The new policy will focus on the internationalization of trade in rupees.
◎ It will promote ease of doing business and focus on emerging areas like e-
commerce and export hubs.
◎ Under the new policy, Faridabad, Moradabad, Mirzapur and Varanasi have been
declared as towns of export excellence for apparels, handicrafts, handmade
carpet and dari, and handloom and handicraft categories, respectively.
◎ Under the new policy, the dairy sector has been exempted from maintaining
average export obligation.
◎ Under the new FTP 2023, designated zone with warehousing facility will be
created and these will be designed to help e-commerce aggregators for easy
stocking, customs clearance and returns processing.
Extension of Bharatmala Phase 1
Phase 1 of the Bharatmala project deadline has been extended by six years,
to FY 2027-28.
👉 About Bharatmala Pariyojna

◎ About ➔ It is a centrally funded road and highway
development project conceptualised in 2 phases across India.
◎ Objective ➔ To develop road connectivity linking Border
areas, Coastal roads and port connectivity of major and Non-
Major ports, improvement in the efficiency of National
Corridors, development of Economic Corridors, expressways,
Inter Corridors and Feeder Routes along with integration
with Sagarmala.
Extension of Bharatmala Phase 1
○ Phase I: It is to develop economic corridors, feeder roads, and expressways. It
covers 34800 km out of the total length of 74942.
◎ Nodal Ministry ➔ Ministry of Road Transport and Highway
◎ Implementing Agencies ➔ National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National
Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and State
Public Works Department.
◎ Funding Mechanism ➔ The project will be funded through, Cess collected from
Petrol & Diesel (as per Central Road & Infrastructure Fund Act, 2000) ;Toll Tax
;Monetisation of National Highways through TOT (Toll-Operate-Transfer) ;Internal
& Extra Budgetary Resources (IEBR) ; Private Sector Investment.
Sanjauli-Dhalli Tunnel
Recently, the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh inaugurated the newly-
constructed Sanjauli-Dhalli tunnel.
👉 About
◎ New Sanjauli-Dhalli Tunnel ➔ It is a double-lane
tunnel spanning around 150 meters built with an
estimated cost Rs 47 crore.
◎ Existing Dhalli tunnel ➔ It was constructed in 1852
as a single-lane passage. It had surpassed its design
life, causing persistent traffic congestion.
◎ Location ➔ The tunnel is strategically positioned on the route to popular tourist

destinations, such as Kufri, Naldehra, Tattapani, Narkanda and Chail.
◎ Importance:
○ Address the Needs of both Residents and Visitor: It will ease the movement
and contribute to the region's economic growth. Tourism will benefit
significantly from the improved connectivity.
○ Modernize Infrastructure: New tunnel is the most viable and sustainable
solution to reduce congestion on Shimla's circular road.
◎ Promotes Culture ➔ Inside the tunnel, 210 paintings depicting culture of Himachal
Pradesh have been designed and wide footpaths have been built on both sides.
○ The paintings in the tunnel are on the theme of the Jatar (Devta) procession
of Shimla.
○ The tunnel was hand- painted and the Choltu dance form depicted in the
paintings is an important form of “Pahari” dance, especially in upper Himachal
areas like Theog, Rohru, Rampur, Kotkhai.
○ The dance is performed in the devotion of local deities on special occasions.
Practice Question
The ‘Sanjauli-Dhalli tunnel’ recently mentioned in the news is located in which one of
the following states of India?
A. Himachal Pradesh
B. Arunachal Pradesh
C. Uttarakhand
D. Nagaland
Directorate General of Foreign Trade -> Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
Indian History Congress -> first session being held at Poona in 1935.
‘Zero Coupon Zero Principle’ instruments -> financial instruments that a

non-profit organisation may use to raise funds.
Jim Corbett National Park -> Assam.
4 Sahibzades -> were martyred in the battle of Chamkaur Sahib.
Tigers -> Critically Endangered - International Union for Conservation of

Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Stagflation -> simultaneous increase in prices along with a stagnation in

the economy.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to the Financial Intelligence Unit, India:
1. It is an independent body which reports directly to the Economic Intelligence Council

headed by the Finance secretary.
2. The unit can enquire the offenders on matters related to money laundering.
Which of the statements given above are incorrect?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Practice Question
Consider the following statements with reference to Guru Gobind Singh:
1. He is known for the creation of the Khalsa Panth.

2. He proclaimed himself to be the last of the personal Gurus.
3. He is the author of the Dasam Granth.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Practice Question
With reference to the India-ASEAN trade relations, consider the following statements:
1. ASEAN accounted for more than 25 percent of India’s global trade in 2022-23.
2. India has a trade surplus with ASEAN.
3. Modernising ‘the ASEAN India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA)’ will include
incorporating changes in the Rules of Origin.

A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
India-ASEAN Set to Review Trade Pact
India and ASEAN will begin negotiations in February 2024 to modernize

their old free trade agreement (FTA).
👉 About
◎ Objective ➔ The objective of the FTA
modernization is to bring down the trade deficit
for India.
◎ Trade Deficit ➔ India’s trade deficit with the
ASEAN region, which was $7.5 billion per annum
when the pact was implemented, has since
ballooned to $43.57 billion
◎ New Elements such as product specific rules and trade remedies will be brought in
to make the FTA more efficient.
○ Trade Remedies: A chapter on trade remedies will provide a safety net for
domestic industry against unfair trading practices or unforeseen surges in
imports of goods
○ Changes in the Rules of Origin (ROO): It can work in favor of India by
increasing market access. It will also block China's possible re-routing of
goods through the ASEAN countries into India.
○ ROO is the criteria to determine the origin of a product and establish if it
qualifies for duty cuts under an FTA.
◎ Focus Sectors ➔ Chemicals and alloys, plastics and rubber, minerals, leather,
textiles, gems and jewelry sectors will be revamped to balance the FTA.
◎ Timeline ➔ The first round of negotiations of the ASEAN India Trade in Goods
Agreement (AITGA), will be on February 18-19 in New Delhi to wrap up by 2025.
○ ASEAN India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA) is the official name of the new
FTA
◎ Same Scope ➔ No new areas, such as environment, labor, MSMEs or gender, will
be added to the AITGA.
👉 About ASEAN:
◎ It is a regional grouping in the Indo-Pacific region, to promote economic and
security cooperation among its members.
◎ Members ➔ Ten-member includes Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore,
Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia,
◎ Trade with India ➔ ASEAN accounted for

11.3 percent of India’s global trade in
2022-23.
◎ Established ➔ Founded in 1967 in
Bangkok, Thailand.
◎ Secretariat ➔ Located in Jakarta,
Indonesia.
👉 What is Free Trade Agreements (FTA):

◎ It is a pact between two or more countries to reduce the barriers of trade among
them.
◎ It includes little or no quota, subsidies and tariffs to encourage the trade relations.
◎ Notable FTAs signed by India recently are ➔
○ India-Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Corporation and Partnership
Agreement (CECPA)
○ India-UAE Comprehensive Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
○ India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (IndAus ECTA).

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Prelim Booster

👉 About Paris Club

◎ India’s Participation ➔ India participates on an ad-hoc basis.

👉 Agreement in Principle for Debt Treatment Plan:

👉 About Finance Commission:

◎ Composition ➔ It consists of a chairman and 4 other members to be appointed by

👉 Precedent for the Peace Agreement

◎ UNLF's Split and Leadership Changes ➔

👉 About United National Liberation Front (UNLF):

👉 Mullaperiyar Inter-State Water Dispute

👉 Periyar Lake Lease Agreement of October 1886:

👉 Same-Sex Marriages India:

Question True / False

Finance Commission -> Statutory body.

Paris Club -> an informal group of creditor nations.

Survey of India -> under the Department of Science & Technology.

Question True / False

1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme which was launched in 2013 in the aftermath of

Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

1. Article 127 of the Constitution of India, as amended by the 42nd Amendment,

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• Statement 1 is not correct: Article 312 of the Indian Constitution, as amended by

• Statement 2 is correct: The creation of an AIJS requires a resolution adopted by

1. Any satellite constellation that provides positioning, navigation, and timing

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

◎ Statement 1 is correct: GNSS is a general term describing any satellite constellation

◎ Statement 2 is not correct: Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) is a regional GNSS

👉 About Malaria Disease

👉 Indian Initiatives to Control Malaria:

◎ India Achievement ➔ India has achieved a reduction of over 83% in malaria

◎ Success of Organ Transplantation ➔ It is to showcase the success of organ

👉 World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF):

👉 Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011:

Question True / False

PMI Data -> Released by NSO.

Hornbill Festival -> Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh.

1. Its recommendations are binding on the government.

Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

1. Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Question True / False

Finance Commission -> Statutory body.

Paris Club -> an informal group of creditor nations.

Survey of India -> under the Department of Science & Technology.

Criteria 15th Finance Commission

1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme which was launched in 2013 in the aftermath of

Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

◎ Statement 1 is not correct:

◎ Statement 2 is not correct:

Recently, the Indian delegation attended the 91st Interpol General

👉 India's Interpol Engagement:

◎ Leadership Programs and Training Hub ➔

◎ Central Bureau of Investigation

👉 About Bundelkhand Expressway

👉 Significance of Solar Expressway:

◎ Membership ➔ The Organization has 194 Members and 12 Associate Members.

👉 India and UNESCO:

◎ Leadership in Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) ➔

◎ Technical Cooperation: COP28 and a group of partners announced a collaborative

Question True / False

India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway -> Bundelkhand Expressway.

Question True / False

PMI Data -> Released by NSO.

Hornbill Festival -> Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh.