NOVEMBER 2023

1. Cover multiple sources DAILY: The Hindu, IE, , etc.

2. Accurate news selection. what to skip is as important
as what to read.
3. Exercise good judgment for topics requiring additional
reading.
4. Concise and revision-ready notes.

Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, Pusa Road, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi - 110060 (INDIA)
Tel: +91 89299 87787 Mail: [email protected]
 CONTENTS

Subject No. of Topics

Economics 16
Governance 11
Polity 03
International Relations 10
Security Issues 02
Enviro & Biodiversity 11
Science Tech 24
Art and Culture 11
Modern India History 02
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 3

Economics
1. White Hydrogen: Vast white hydrogen reservoir found while searching for fossil fuels in
northeastern France /// Also known as “natural,” “gold,” or “geologic” hydrogen, it occurs naturally
in the Earth’s crust and offers clean energy potential /// Typically found combined with other molecules
/// Advantages offered: Produces no CO2 emissions when used as fuel /// Compatible with existing H2
infrastructure and technologies /// More cost-effective and efficient than steam reforming or electroly-
sis /// Abundant and renewable /// Deposits exist worldwide, including the US, Eastern Europe, Russia,
Australia, France, and more /// Types of Hydrogen: Grey Hydrogen: Produced from coal or lignite gasifica-
tion, or steam methane reformation (SMR), often carbon-intensive /// Blue Hydrogen: Produced via gas-
ification with carbon capture technologies to reduce emissions /// Green Hydrogen: Generated through
water electrolysis using renewable energy.
Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc

2. Direct Listing on Foreign Exchanges: India allows certain firms to directly

list on foreign stock exchanges for global capital access /// Effective since October 30, 2023, introduced
via the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2020 /// Allows specific domestic public companies to list secu-
rities on foreign exchanges, including GIFT IFSC in Ahmedabad, with exemptions from certain require-
ments /// Lets listing shares without issuing new shares or raising capital /// Differs from traditional
IPO, where shares sold to public for capital /// Distinct from depository receipt (DR) route, where
shares issued to custodian bank, which then issues DRs to foreign investors /// Benefits: Access diverse
investor pool, enhance visibility, improve governance, compliance /// Indian firms currently use ADRs/
GDRs for foreign listings via custodian banks /// Direct foreign listing benefits: Larger, more liquid mar-
ket; broader investor base; cost and time savings (IPO, DR process fees).
Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

3. TCAS-Kavach: Recent train collision in Andhra Pradesh highlighted the absence of Traffic
Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), including the indigenous ‘Kavach’ system /// Kavach is a cab sig-
naling train control system with anti-collision features developed by RDSO and three Indian vendors
/// India’s National Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System, adhering to Safety Integrity Level-4
(SIL-4) standards /// Alerts loco pilots of ‘red signals’ and applies automatic brakes if needed to prevent
overshooting /// Relay SoS messages during emergencies and offers centralized live train monitoring
through the Network Monitor System /// 3 components: First Component: RFID technology incorpo-
rated into tracks for object identification without physical contact /// Second Component: Locomotive
equipped with RFID readers, a computer, and brake interface equipment /// Third Component: Radio
infrastructure (towers, modems) at railway stations /// Deployment cost is ₹50 lakh per km, with lim-
ited coverage of approximately 1,500 km /// Big challenge for comprehensive implementation across the
68,000 km rail network.
Railway Reforms

4. Kerala Organic Farming Mission: To expand organic farming to 5,000 hectares

in 5 years /// Annual target: Convert 1,000 hectares to organic farming each year /// Governance struc-
ture includes a governing council chaired by Agriculture Minister /// Beneficiaries commit to at least 5
years of organic farming /// Focus on enhancing certification, branding, and marketing /// Implement
organic farming protocols aligned with standards /// Ensure access to quality seeds and production
equipment /// Collective channels: Karshika Karma Sena, Kudumbasree, Krishisree Centre, Agro Service
Centres /// Complements Poshaka Samriddhi Mission dedicated to millet and vegetable production for
sustainable agriculture.
Organic Farming – Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY), NPOF etc

Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, Pusa Road, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi - 110060 (INDIA)
Tel: +917303316700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 4

5. Pusa-2090: IARI developed Pusa-2090, an improved Pusa-44 version with similar yields and
shorter maturity /// Cross between Pusa-44 and Japonica rice line CB-501, early-maturing rice in 120-
125 days /// Blends Pusa-44’s high yield traits with CB-501’s quick maturation, addressing stubble
burning concerns /// Tested in All-India Coordinated Rice Improvement Project, it’s suitable for cul-
tivation in Delhi and Odisha /// Pusa-44, an IARI long-duration paddy variety, contributes to stubble
burning /// 155-160 day growth cycle leads to late October maturity, forcing stubble burning due to
short field preparation time /// High yields (35-36 quintals per acre) make it popular among farmers.
Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc

6. National Coal Index (NCI): Recent NCI surge in September, first rise since April
2023 /// Price index reflecting coal price changes relative to a fixed base year FY 2017-18 /// Released
monthly by the Ministry of Coal /// Introduced on June 4, 2020, to monitor coal price fluctuations ///
Combines coal prices from: notified prices, auction prices, and import prices /// Crucial for determin-
ing premium rates, either per ton or through revenue sharing, using a market-based approach /// NCI
comprises five sub-indices: three for Non-Coking Coal and two for Coking Coal /// Sub-indices are
merged to create separate indices for Non-Coking (has higher ash content) and Coking Coal.
Coal and Mining Sector

7. PM-Kisan Bhai Scheme: Bhandaran Incentive to be implemented soon /// To assist

small farmers in storing crops instead of immediate selling /// Minimum of 3 months storage for har-
vested crops /// Two components for farmers and farmer producer organizations are proposed in the
scheme /// 1) Warehousing Rental Subsidy (WRS): A subsidy of ₹4 per quintal per month for up to three
months, excluding storage under 15 days, is to be provided /// 2) Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI):
3% additional interest subvention under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme for farmers pledging their
produce and obtaining loans at subsidized interest rates /// Power is shifted to stockists from October
by the scheme, affecting the selling timeline of farmers /// Traders’ dominance challenged in setting
crop prices by the initiative /// Flexibility for farmers to sell crops beyond the usual 23-month harvest
period is allowed by the scheme /// Use of e-NWR trade on e-NAM for better pricing and wider buyer
access is encouraged for farmers /// Testing in several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya
Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, is planned.
Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc

8. Active and Passive Equity Funds: Active funds saw huge inflows compared to
passive equity funds /// An equity fund primarily invests in stocks and can be active or passive (index
fund) /// Equity funds, also known as stock funds, vary by company size, investment style, and ge-
ography /// Managers make decisions on buying, holding, or selling securities /// Active funds aim to
outperform the benchmark index /// Risk and return depend on their adopted strategy /// Passive funds
replicate a specific index or benchmark /// Fund managers in passive funds have a minimal role in
stock selection /// Decisions in passive funds align with the benchmark index, focusing on minimal
tracking error.
Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

9. MSCI Emerging Markets Index: 9 Indian stocks recently added to the MSCI
EM index /// India 2nd-highest after China, to 131 stocks /// MSCI, owned by Morgan Stanley, is an
investment research firm offering indexes, analytics, and tools to institutional investors and hedge funds
/// Includes over 160,000 indices, aiding in portfolio construction and monitoring /// Offers a range of
indices, country-specific, regional, emerging market, developed market, small cap, all cap, and Islamic in-
dices /// MSCI selects stocks for its equity indexes based on ease of trading, liquidity, and high free float,
giving more weight to companies with higher free float /// MSCI India Index measures the performance
of the large and mid-cap segments of the Indian market /// Firm prioritizes stocks with active investor
participation and without owner restrictions /// With 113 constituents, it covers about 85% of Indian
equity universe; undergoes quarterly reviews.
Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, Pusa Road, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi - 110060 (INDIA)
Tel: +917303316700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 5

10. Kavro Doma 360: MKU Limited Kanpur, recently introduced the Kavro Doma 360 at Mi-
lipol Paris /// World’s first rifle-rated ballistic helmet ever made in India /// Offers uniform protection
against AK-47 MSC, M80 NATO BALL, and M193 rifle bullets /// Protects all five head zones (front, back,
left, right, crown) uniformly /// Only boltless rifle protection helmet in the world, eliminating the risk
of bolt penetration on impact /// 40% more protection area than standard helmets, even against AK-47
assault rifles /// First helmet with a Back Face Signature/Trauma of less than 20 mm from AK-47 bullet
impacts /// ‘Back Face Signature’ measures helmet deformation or indentation from high-energy bullet
impacts /// Protects against both straight and rotational/angular impacts, which can cause concus-
sions or brain injuries /// Features top-to-chin and side-to-side harness adjustment for stability and fit
/// Offers maximum compatibility with MACS, allowing integration with head-mounted devices and
combat equipment.
Make in India: Challenges & Prospects

11. GI tag for Sea Buckthorn: ‘Ladakh Sea Buckthorn’ has been granted a Geographical Indication
(GI) tag /// Fourth GI tag for Ladakh, following Apricot (Raktsey Karpo), Pashmina, and Ladakhi Wood
Carving /// Found in Europe and Asia, thrives in the Himalayas, notably in Ladakh and Spiti’s cold des-
erts /// Yellow berries Vitamin-rich, sour orange /// Adaptable to extreme temperatures, it’s well-suit-
ed for cold desert conditions /// All parts of the plant are useful: berries, leaves, twigs, roots, and thorns
for medicine, food, fuel, and fencing /// Provides food for birds and nutritious fodder for livestock like
sheep, goats, donkeys, cattle, and camels /// Known as the ‘Wonder Plant,’ ‘Ladakh Gold,’ ‘Golden Bush,’
or ‘Gold Mine’ of the cold deserts /// GI Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and In-
ternal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry /// Defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement /// 10 years
validity.
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

12. Onattukara Sesame: Kerala is boosting cultivation, a unique agricultural product ///
Received its GI tag in January /// Onattukara region spans: Alappuzha, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta
districts /// Known for medicinal properties and high quality /// Used traditionally since 18th century
for treating rheumatism and skin protection /// Rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids
like oleic, linoleic, and palmitoleic acids /// Varieties include ‘ayali,’ Kayamkulam-1, thilak, thilathara,
and thilarani, developed by ORARS, Kayamkulam /// Current pricing: Sesame seeds at ₹200 to ₹250 per
kilogram, sesame oil at ₹500 to ₹600 per kilogram.
GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

13. Gujarat declares ‘Ghol’ as State Fish: Global Name: Black-spotted croaker
/// Scientific Name: Protonibea Diacanthus /// IUCN Status: Near Threatened /// Found in the Indo-Pa-
cific region, from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean /// Known as ‘Sea Gold’ due to its high market
value /// Economically significant in Gujarat, especially for exports /// Fish’s air bladder (fish maw) is
highly valued, fetching up to Rs 25000 per kg /// Delicacy in Europe and the Middle East /// Known for
medicinal properties in Asian countries, particularly China.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

14. ‘Risk Weights’ hike by RBI: Refers to cost implication of every rupee lent by banks
on their capital position /// Hiked on consumer credit for banks and NBFCs to 125% from 100% /// Rais-
es cost of funds for banks and non-bank financial companies (NBFCs) /// Assets are used to calculate
the minimum capital required by banks based on their lending activities’ risk profile /// Introduced in
India in April 1992, aligning with Basel Committee‘s Capital Adequacy Norms /// Lower risk weights
generally lead to lower interest rates, indirectly affecting borrowers through loan pricing /// Increase
will raise funding costs for NBFCs and affect their capital requirements.
RBI Notifications

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Tel: +917303316700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 6

15. Tantalum reserves in Sutlej Basin: IIT-Ropar researchers discovered tan-

talum in Punjab’s soil in the Sutlej River Basin /// Rare metal with atomic number 73, is named after
the Greek mythological figure Tantalus /// Grey, heavy, hard, and highly corrosion-resistant /// Forms a
tough oxide layer when exposed to air, resisting strong acids /// Ductile when pure, can be drawn into
thin wires /// Resistant to chemical attacks below 150°C, except by hydrofluoric acid, fluoride ion solu-
tions, and sulphur trioxide /// Extremely high melting point, surpassed only by tungsten and rhenium
/// Widely used in electronic capacitors for storing electricity efficiently in small sizes /// Ideal for por-
table devices like smartphones, laptops, and digital cameras /// Used in chemical plants, nuclear power
plants, airplanes, and missiles /// Non-reactive with bodily fluids, suitable for surgical tools and implants
like artificial joints /// Tantalum carbide (TaC) and graphite composite is one of the hardest materials
used in high-speed machine tools /// About SUTLEJ River: Starts from Lake Rakshastal in Tibet, near
Mount Kailash /// About 1,500 km (930 miles); Longest of the five rivers of Punjab /// Flows through
Tibet, India (Himachal Pradesh, Punjab), and Pakistan /// Major tributary includes the Beas River in India
/// Part of Indus River System, joins the Chenab River in Pakistan /// Crucial for irrigation, and hydro-
electric power (Bhakra Nangal Dam) /// Governed by Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan.
Coal and Mining Sector

16. 16th Finance Commission: Terms of reference approved by Centre for the Six-
teenth Finance Commission /// FC will create a revenue-sharing formula between the Centre and
States from April 1, 2026 /// FC Established in 1951 under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution /// To
regulate financial relations between the central government and state governments /// Governed by the
Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, detailing qualifications, appointment, and
powers /// Comprises a chairman and 4 members, appointed every 5 years /// Constitutional Provisions:
Article 268 allows the Centre to levy duties collected and retained by States /// Article 280 defines the
FC’s composition, member qualifications, and terms of reference /// Key Functions: Recommends dis-
tribution of net tax proceeds between the Centre and States /// Grants-in-Aid: Determines principles
for these grants to States /// Advises on enhancing States’ Consolidated Funds for local bodies, based
on State Finance Commissions’ recommendations /// Handles other financial matters referred by the
President.
Finance Commission – Issues related to devolution of resources

Governance
1. Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) System: Odisha’s concurrent elec-
tions reflect diverse political choices /// Split voting system, as seen in New Zealand, allocates votes
to different parties /// India uses first-past-the-post, NZ employs Mixed Member Proportional (MMP)
system /// MMP involves two votes: ‘party vote’ shapes Parliament composition, ‘electorate vote’ selects
local MP /// ‘Electorate vote’ lets voters choose a candidate from a different party without affecting
overall party representation /// Switch seats occur when a candidate differs from the party receiving the
party vote /// MMP enhances localized accountability and policy focus /// Promotes inclusiveness,
better representation for women, indigenous groups, and marginalized populations /// Strengthens de-
mocracy, enables diverse political preferences expression.
Electoral Reforms In India

2. PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY): Extended for 5 more years ///
Initiated in March 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic /// Operated by Department of Food and Pub-
lic Distribution, Ministry of Consumer Affairs /// World’s largest food security program, aims to feed
India’s poorest citizens /// Provides 5 kg of rice (Rs 3 per kg) or wheat (Rs 2 per kg) (based on dietary
preferences) and 1 kg of pulse per person/month at Central Issue Prices (CIPs) /// Benefits priority
households, including ration card holders and Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries /// National Food
Security Act (NFSA), 2013 offers highly subsidized rates /// NFSA includes: Midday Meal Scheme, Inte-

Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, Pusa Road, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi - 110060 (INDIA)
Tel: +917303316700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 7

grated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme and the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc

3. Bharat Atta: Subsidized packaged wheat flour, Bharat Atta, for all consumers /// Price re-
duction of ₹2 per kg, making it ₹27.50 from ₹29.50, benefits regular consumers /// Retail sales to boost
market supplies at affordable prices, ensuring price stability /// Procurement under Open Market Sale
Scheme (OMSS): NAFED and NCSS will procure 250,000 tonnes of wheat at ₹21.50 per kg /// Available
at: Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, NCCF, government cooperative outlets, and food vans operated by NAFED
and NCCF.
Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc

4. PM-PVTGs Development Mission: Launched on Birsa Munda Jayanti, celebrat-

ed as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas /// To provide critical infrastructure like power, water, roads, housing, edu-
cation, and healthcare to remote PVTG villages /// Includes 11 interventions like PM-Gram Sadak Yojana
and Jal Jeevan Mission, coordinated by nine ministries /// Who are PVTGs? Primitive traits, geographical
isolation, low literacy, and minimal or negative population growth /// Dhebar Commission (1973) cre-
ated the Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) category; renamed PVTGs in 2006 /// Initially, 52 groups were
identified in 1975, with 23 more added in 1993 /// Currently, 2 /// 8 million PVTGs from 75 tribes live
across 22,544 villages in 220 districts of 18 states and UTs in India /// PVTG population as per the 2011
Census: Odisha (866,000), Madhya Pradesh (609,000) and Andhra Pradesh (539,000) /// Odisha’s Saura
community is largest PVTG, with 535,000 members.
Tribes in News

5. Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI), 2023: India ranks 103rd,

the lowest among BRICS nations /// China leading the BRICS at 40th, followed by Russia (52nd), South
Africa (68th), and Brazil (69th) /// GTCI assesses countries’ ability to grow, attract, and retain talent ///
Published annually by INSEAD, a prestigious business school chain, the report aids decision-makers in
enhancing talent competitiveness /// Comprises two sub-indices: input (measuring regulatory, business
environments, and talent development) and output (evaluating talent quality) /// 6 pillars: enable, attract,
grow, retain, talent vocation and technical skills, global knowledge skills /// 2023 report, its 10th edition,
evaluates 134 countries across various income groups /// Top countries: Singapore, Switzerland, and the
United States, followed by Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Norway, Australia, Sweden, and the UK ///
Countries outperforming India: Rwanda, Paraguay, Tunisia, Namibia, Bolivia, Ghana, El Salvador, Gam-
bia, Kenya, Morocco, and Eswatini.
Skilling India – Skill India Mission,PMKVY, NSDC, etc

6. Gambusia Fish for Mosquito Control: AP released about 10 million Gam-

busia fish into state water bodies to fight malaria and dengue /// Used in mosquito-control worldwide
for over a century, including in India /// Invasive alien species raises concerns about impacts on native
freshwater species /// Also known as mosquito fish, is used for controlling mosquito larvae /// Native to
southeastern United States waters /// A single Gambusia can consume 100 to 300 mosquito larvae daily
/// Part of India’s malaria control strategies since 1928, including the Urban Malaria Scheme /// Among
100 worst invasive alien species globally as listed by IUCN.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc

7. Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative (AGNI): Ministry of Ayush launched

the “Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative” (AGNI) /// Focuses on documenting and validating Ayurvedic
practices, promoting evidence-based practice, and encouraging scientific research /// Offers a platform
for Ayurveda practitioners to share innovative practices and research findings /// Scientific validation
of practical Ayurvedic methods /// Fosters an evidence-based practice culture among Ayurveda practi-
tioners, integrating scientific research.
AYUSH – Indian Medicine System

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 8

8. Special Category Status for States: Given by Centre to help develop states with
geographical or socio-economic challenges /// SCS was established in 1969, following the 5th Finance
Commission‘s recommendations /// Five criteria: (i) hilly and difficult terrain (ii) low population density
and/or sizeable share of tribal population (iii) strategic location along international borders (iv) economic
and infrastructural backwardness and (v) non-viable nature of state finances /// Originally, J&K, Assam,
and Nagaland were granted SCS, followed by eight others including Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
/// Gadgil-Mukherjee Formula earlier used for granting SCS, about 30% of total central assistance /// Af-
ter Planning Commission’s abolition and the 14th and 15th Finance Commission’s recommendations
/// SCS funding now at 41% was integrated into increased fund devolution to all states /// SCS benefits:
90:10 Centre-State funding ratio for centrally sponsored schemes, more favorable than the 60:40 or 80:20
for other states /// Concessions in customs, excise duties, income tax, and corporate tax rates to boost
investment.
Finance Commission – Issues related to devolution of resources

9. Amplifi 2.0 Portal: MoHUA launched Amplifi 2.0 portal to support data-driven policy-
making /// Acronym for: Assessment and Monitoring Platform for Liveable, Inclusive, and Future-Ready
Urban India /// Provides easy access to raw data from Indian cities, aiding researchers, academics, and
stakeholders in urban policy formulation /// 258 ULBs are onboarded, with data for 150 cities available
on the platform /// Accessible data from all 3,739 municipal corporations /// Offers diverse data, includ-
ing consumption, water quality, healthcare spending, slum population, and road accident fatalities.
Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc

10. AAINA Dashboard for Cities: MoHUA launched ‘AAINA Dashboard for Cities’
portal (www.aaina.gov.in) /// Comprehensive database of ULBs (Urban Local Bodies’) key performance
metrics /// Enable cities to compare their performance with others /// Highlight potential improve-
ments and inspire cities /// Facilitate learning and engagement with leading cities /// Will NOT rank
ULBs but will be a comparative tool for peer learning /// 5 Pillars: Political & Administrative Structure;
Finance; Planning; Citizen Centric Governance; Delivery of Basic Services.
Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc

11. Rythu Bandhu Scheme: ECI halted disbursements under Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu
Scheme due to a violation of the MCC /// India’s first direct farmer investment support scheme, of-
fering cash directly to beneficiaries /// Also known as Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme (FISS) ///
Started in 2018 in Telangana /// 58 lakh farmers with ₹5,000 per acre for farm investment in Telangana
for 2 crops annually /// NO limit on acreage a farmer can claim; payments vary based on land ownership
/// Payments are made twice a year, for kharif and Rabi harvests.
Direct Benefits Transfers

Polity
1. Advocate-on-Record (AoR): SC fined AoR for sending unprepared junior lawyer ///
AoR concept under Article 145(1): SC may make rules for regulating the practices and procedures in the
court /// AoR can represent cases before SC, exclusive filing rights /// Functions: Assists, collects docu-
ments, drafts, and argues cases /// No other Indian HC has a similar provision /// Qualifications under
SC Rules, 2013, Order IV Rule 5: Enrolled with State Bar Council; 4 years of experience; 1-year training
under senior AoR; Pass SC examination; Maintain an office within 10 miles of SC /// Registered AoR re-
ceives a unique identification number /// Restricted to filing cases under ones Vakalatnama.
Judicial Reforms

2. Election Expenditures Ceiling: ECI sets limits for campaign expense for candi-
dates, not parties /// Expense limits vary by State: Bigger States (eg, Bihar, UP, Tamil Nadu):Assembly
candidates can spend up to ₹40L /// Lok Sabha candidates can spend up to ₹90L /// Smaller States: Lok

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 9

Sabha candidates can spend up to ₹75L /// Assembly candidates can spend up to ₹28L /// UTs have low-
er expense limits based on constituency size and population /// Changes made by amending Conduct of
Elections Rules /// Contesting candidates must report election expenses accurately to EC /// Incorrect
accounts or exceeding limits may lead to disqualification for up to three years (Section 10A, Represen-
tation of the People Act, 1951) /// Expenditure by for official duty or travel NOT considered election
spending /// Government service expenses are also NOT considered election expenses.
Electoral Reforms In India

3. All India Judicial Service (AIJS): President called for creation of an All-India
Judicial Service to recruit judges /// To improve judicial efficiency, standardize salaries, speed up recruit-
ment, and provide uniform training /// Current Recruitment: Articles 233 and 234: States handle district
judge appointments /// State PSC conducting recruitment under High Court supervision /// 1958: Law
Commission first proposed a centralized judicial service /// 1978: LC revisited the idea due to concerns
over delays and case backlogs /// 2006: A Parliamentary Committee supported a pan-Indian judicial
service and drafted a bill /// Judiciary’s Stance: 1992: SC directed the Centre to establish AIJS (All India
Judges’ Assam vs. Union of India case) /// 1993: allowed the Centre to start AIJS independently /// 2017:
suggested a “Central Selection Mechanism” for district judge appointments /// Procedure to set up
AIJS: 42nd CA in 1976 amended Article 312(1), allowing Parliament to create All-India Services /// Under
Article 312(1), the Rajya Sabha must pass a resolution with a two-thirds majority of members present
and voting /// Parliament can then amend Articles 233 and 234 by a simple majority to create AIJS ///
Recruitment and conditions for All India services are regulated by the Parliament through the All India
Service Act, 1951 /// Amendment not needed under Article 368 required for AIJS.
Judicial Appointments Conundrum Post-NJAC Verdict

International Relations
1. Kra Isthmus Land Bridge Project: Thailand considers Kra Isthmus Land Bridge
Project /// Separates Southern Thailand and Malay Peninsula, 44 km wide /// Seas connected: Andaman
Sea (west): New Rangon Port to South China Sea (east): Chumphon Port /// Historical trade route; po-
tential maritime trade shortcut /// Idea dates back to King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya (Ayodhya) King-
dom in 1677 /// British and French colonial interests explored canal in 19th century /// 2021 proposal:
90-km land bridge with road and rail networks /// Connects deep-sea ports on both coasts /// Strait of
Malacca Alternative: Shorter, safer, cost-effective route, saving 1,200 km, 2-3 days.
Indian Ocean Power Competition

2. Bletchley Park Declaration: Agreement signed by 28 major countries at the AI Safe-

ty Summit 2023 in Bletchley Park, England /// Signatories: United States, China, India, and the European
Union /// Aims to address challenges posed by advanced AI systems known as frontier AI /// Frontier
AI is highly capable generative AI models producing realistic content on demand (text, images, audio,
video) /// Signifies global commitment to tackle frontier AI risks /// Recognizes AI’s benefits and risks
in cybersecurity, biotechnology, disinformation /// Emphasizes international cooperation, involving
companies, civil society, academia /// Establishes a regular AI Safety Summit for collaboration; France
to host next summit within a year, South Korea to co-host a mini virtual AI summit /// India’s Stance:
Shifts from no AI regulation to risk-based, user-harm approach for regulations /// Advocates for a
global framework for ethical AI, prioritizing responsible AI usage /// Creating regulatory bodies at do-
mestic and international levels /// Introducing the Digital India Act, 2023 (yet to be implemented) with
issue-specific regulations for online intermediaries, including AI-based platforms.
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 10

3. Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) Initiative:

Launched at the 2022 Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo (India, Australia, Japan, and the US) /// Primar-
ily tracks “dark shipping” vessels with switched-off Automatic Identification System (AIS) /// Focuses
on tactical activities: climate response, humanitarian aid, fisheries protection /// Enhances Indo-Pacific
security and stability, globally significant region /// Quad comprises USA, India, Australia, Japan, work-
ing for a free, open, prosperous Indo-Pacific /// Alliance of maritime democracies with regular meetings,
summits, exchanges, and military drills /// Originated in 2007, linked to Exercise Malabar and 2004 Tsu-
nami relief efforts /// Japanese PM Shinzo Abe proposed Quad formation in 2007.
Indian Ocean Power Competition

4. 2+2 Ministerial Dialogues: 5th Edition of the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue re-
cently occurred, focusing on defense, semiconductors, technology, space, and health cooperation /// In-
volve Foreign and Defence Ministers from both countries, aiming to deepen dialogue /// Helps under-
stand strategic concerns and political factors, strengthening strategic ties in a changing global context
/// India-US 2+2 partner, held its first dialogue in September 2018 /// India and Australia hold this en-
hancing security and defense ties /// 2+2 talks with Japan (since 2019) aim to increase strategic security
and defense cooperation /// India held its first 2+2 dialogue with the UK in 2023, marking a significant
partnership /// India and Russia also hold 2+2 dialogues, addressing regional and international issues.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

5. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC): APEC Leaders’ Summit

2023 was recently held in San Francisco, USA /// Theme: “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future
for All” /// Golden Gate Declaration: Signed for emphasizing resilience and sustainability for member
economies /// APEC established in 1989, focuses on prosperity in the Asia-Pacific through balanced, in-
clusive, sustainable, innovative, and secure growth, and economic integration /// Permanent secretariat
in Singapore /// Members: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South
Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese
Taipei, Thailand, Vietnam, and the US /// India since 1991 seeking membership of APEC, currently holds
‘observer’ status /// APEC economy: 62% of global GDP and 48% of world trade in 2021 /// Functions on
non-binding commitments, without treaty obligations.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

6. Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS): India hosted second VOGSS virtu-
ally, following the inaugural summit in January 2023 /// Themes: ‘Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with
Everyone’s Trust’ and ‘Global South: Together for One Future’ /// Outcomes: ‘DAKSHIN’, India launched
a Global South Center of Excellence, to foster collaboration and act as a knowledge and think tank ///
Other discussions: SDGs, energy transition, climate finance, digital transformation, women-led devel-
opment, counter-terrorism, and global institution reforms /// Concerns about Israel-Hamas conflict
affecting civilians were voiced by India /// India proposed 5 ‘Cs’: consultation, cooperation, communi-
cation, creativity, and capacity building /// What is Global South? Countries with shared geopolitical,
historical, and developmental challenges, extending beyond geographical definitions /// Nations facing
developmental challenges, including many in the northern hemisphere like India, China, and northern
African countries /// Australia and New Zealand are NOT part despite being in the southern hemisphere
/// Brandt Line (1980), illustrates the north-south economic divide, covering parts of Africa, the Middle
East, India, and China.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Africa

7. Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement: German

newspaper accuses an Indian of “anti-Semitism” and supporting the BDS movement /// BDS, initiated
in 2005 by Palestinian groups, advocates for Palestinian rights, inspired by South Africa’s anti-apartheid
movement /// BDS’s goals: end Israeli occupation of Arab lands, recognize Arab-Palestinian citizens’ rights

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in Israel, and support Palestinian refugees’ right to return as per UN Resolution 194 /// UN Resolution
194 addresses Palestinian refugees’ rights to return and compensation /// BDS urges boycotts of Israeli
government and entities linked to human rights abuses /// Targets companies: Puma, for their connec-
tions to Israeli settlements /// Promotes divestment from Israel and government sanctions against Is-
raeli policies /// Focuses on strategically impactful companies, avoiding broad, less effective campaigns
/// Israeli PM Netanyahu labels BDS as anti-Semitic, alleging it seeks to dismantle the Jewish state.
The Crisis In The Middle East

8. Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA): India and China

signed BPTA in 1993 /// Followed Sumdorong Chu stand-off in 1962, marking a significant step in In-
dia-China relations /// Officially titled ‘Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along
the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China Border Areas’ /// Involved commitments to respect
the status quo and reduce confrontation risks /// Mutual and equal security with reduced military forces
/// Maintained peace for 2 decades along the world’s longest undemarcated border /// BPTA commit-
ments: included non-use of force, respecting the LAC, and minimizing military presence along the LAC
/// Current situation: Relevance is questioned as tensions persist, with significant troop deployments by
both nations /// Escalating tensions since 2013, including the 2020 Galwan Clash /// Dispute over LAC
terms: India’s discomfort with the 1959 LAC term proposed by Chinese President Zhou Enlai, which Chi-
na still claims as valid /// India’s contention: “LAC of 7 November 1959” in the BPTA.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

9. China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC): BRI extension in SE Asia

/// CMEC extension to Sri Lanka, enhancing the Belt and Road Initiative in South Asia /// Connectivity:
Yunnan Province (China) with Mandalay, Kyaukpyu SEZ, Yangon on the Bay of Bengal, (Myanmar) ///
Offers China an alternative route to Strait of Malacca for trade and energy, providing a shorter path
to the Middle East and Africa /// Construction of roads, railways, ports, and industrial zones, with the
Kyaukpyu deep-sea port as a key project /// Traverses conflict-prone areas in Myanmar, complicating its
implementation and stability.
OBOR Initiative

10. Exercise Vajra Prahar: 14th version concluded between India and USA Special Forces
/// Annual exercise hosted alternately by India and the USA’s Special Forces /// Focuses on covert opera-
tions, counter-terrorism, and specialized military tasks /// Addresses current global security challenges,
enhancing India-USA defence cooperation /// 21-day exercise aimed to improve skills in Airborne Oper-
ations, Special Operations, and Counter Terrorism /// Divided into two stages: combat conditioning and
tactical training, followed by a 48-hour validation exercise /// Other India-USA Exercises: Yudh Abhyas:
Annual army exercise for military cooperation and understanding /// Malabar Exercise: Naval exercise
with Japan and Australia, focusing on maritime operations /// Cope India: Air force exercise enhancing
interoperability between air forces /// Tiger Triumph: Tri-service amphibious exercise for humanitarian
assistance and disaster relief /// Red Flag: Advanced aerial combat training with the US Air Force and
international participants /// Spartan Shield: Army exercise for building capacity in counter-insurgency
and counter-terrorism.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

Security Issues
1. National Security Strategy (NSS): India to have its first NSS to outline security
objectives and strategies /// National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) gathers inputs from Central
ministries and departments /// To address traditional and non-traditional threats while adhering to
democratic principles /// Encompasses threat assessments, resource allocation, diplomatic and mil-
itary actions, and security-related policies /// Developed nations have NSS: United States, the United

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 12

Kingdom, and Russia /// Neighborhood: China has a Comprehensive National Security Strategy, while
Pakistan has a National Security Policy 2022-2026 /// Previous NSS attempts: Kargil Review Committee
Report (2000) and Naresh Chandra Task Force on Security (2012) /// National Security Advisory Board
(NSAB) also drafted NSS documents but without formal implementation /// Gen DS Hooda’s Docu-
ment in 2019 marked a significant step towards NSS development /// Suggested NSS outline: definition
of national security and objectives, analysis of emerging security environment, assessment of national
strengths and weaknesses, and identification of required resources.
Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

2. Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In): CERT-In exempted

from the RTI, 2005 /// Joins 26 other exempted intelligence and security organizations like the IB and
Research and Analysis Wing /// Part of MeITY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology) ///
Established in 2004 under the Information Technology Act, 2000 Section (70B) /// Coordinates with
NCIIPC (under NTRO and PMO) and NDMA (under Ministry of Home Affairs) /// Functions include
monitoring cyber-attacks, issuing security guidelines, and liaising with national cybersecurity bodies ///
Hosted the ‘Synergy’ exercise in 2022 with international participation /// Has MoUs with several coun-
tries and cooperates with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation /// Handled notable incidents: An-
droid Jelly Bean flaw (2014), Chrome vulnerabilities (2020), WhatsApp vulnerability (2021), and AIIMS
cyber-attack (2022) /// About Right to Information (RTI) Act: Enacted on June 15, 2005, to promote
transparency and accountability /// Applies to all public authorities at central, state, and local levels ///
Allows access to information on public interest matters, government policies, budgets, etc /// Applica-
tions are filed in writing with the concerned public authority /// Responses are due within 30 days, or
48 hours for life or liberty issues /// Some information is exempted for national security, privacy, etc ///
Nominal fees vary based on state and information requested /// First Appellate Authority for unsatis-
factory responses /// Second Appeal filed with the relevant Information Commission /// Whistleblower
protection against victimization for exposing corruption.
Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

Enviro & Biodiversity

1. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): EU and India are work-
ing on resolving a trade issue related to the EU’s CBAM /// CBAM law will authorize the EU to charge Car-
bon Border Tax (CBT) on imports of steel, aluminum, fertilizer, electricity, cement, and hydrogen
/// Implemented from January 2026 /// CBT equalizes the cost of carbon emissions between domestic
and foreign producers /// It aims to address carbon leakage and discourage emissions as a trade-related
measure /// EU’s plan to reduce GHGs emissions by at least 55% by 2030 /// India criticized CBAM as a
trade-restrictive policy /// India has expressed concerns at international forums, emphasizing non-dis-
criminatory treatment and warning against protectionist practices /// Implementing poses a significant
challenge to India’s metal export sector, with potential tariffs of 20-35% for steel and aluminum.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

2. Air Quality Index (AQI): AQI assesses air safety by measuring pollutant density at
monitoring stations /// Provided by Central Pollution Control Board, is a widely-used 24-hour average
/// Measured in micrograms per cubic meter /// Different pollutants have varying levels of harm, so
AQI adjusts quantities to a common scale (0 to 500) /// Air pollutants covered: Sulphur Dioxide (SO2),
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Particulate Matter (size less than 10 µm) or PM 10, Particulate Matter (size less
than 2 /// 5 µm) or PM2 /// 5, Ozone (O3), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Ammonia (NH3) /// Lesser-known
pollutants: Lead (Pb), Benzene (C6H6), Benzo(a)Pyrene (BaP), Arsenic (As), and Nickel (Ni) /// Graded
Response Action Plan (GRAP) = WHO’s 2014 study ranking Delhi as the world’s most polluted city ///

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily - November 2023 Page No. 13

SC approved GRAP in 2016 (MC Mehta vs Union of India Case) /// January 2017 first GRAP notified
by MoEFCC /// CAQM took over GRAP implementation in 2021; previously, EPCA enforced GRAP
measures /// EPCA replaced by CAQM in 2020 (Commission for Air Quality Management) /// CAQM
relies on Air Quality Index (AQI) and meteorological predictions from IITM and IMD /// Revised GRAP
Measures: Stage I (Poor – AQI 201-300): Enforce NGT/Supreme Court orders on over-aged diesel/petrol
vehicles /// Stage II (Very Poor – AQI 301-400): Implement rigorous actions at air pollution hotspots ///
Stage III (Severe – AQI 401-450): Impose strict restrictions on certain vehicle types and suspend prima-
ry school classes in specific areas /// Stage IV (Severe Plus – AQI >450): Prohibit entry of four-wheelers
from outside Delhi, except for specific vehicles ///
Air Pollution

3. Loss and Damage Fund (LDF): LDF represents irreversible climate change con-
sequences, covering economic losses, human casualties, ecosystem degradation, and cultural heritage
damage /// Historic agreement at COP27 to establish a Loss and Damage Fund under the UNFCCC ///
Fund aims to aid poor countries recovering from climate-induced weather disasters and impacts /// LDF
proposal began at COP19 in Warsaw (2013) /// Establishment of Santiago Network for L&D, but no
funding commitment /// COP26 initiated the Glasgow Dialogue on finance for L&D /// COP27 in Novem-
ber 2022 led to the establishment of the L&D Fund and a transitional committee to determine its financial
mechanisms /// Acknowledges rich nations’ responsibility for historical pollution, which raised global
temperatures by over 1°C /// Seeks to provide financial and technical assistance to economically devel-
oping countries suffering land damage due to climate change.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

4. Mount Etna: Europe’s most active volcano, has experienced frequent eruptions since Febru-
ary 2023, with ash plumes and lava fountains /// Stratovolcano, built from layers of lava, ash, and rocks
over thousands of years /// Located on Sicily’s east coast in Mediterranean Sea, it belongs to Italy ///
3,300 meters above sea level, covering around 1,200 square kilometers /// 4 summit craters and numer-
ous lateral vents, causing various eruption types /// Continuous eruptions since 1500 BC, it is among
the world’s most active volcanoes /// Other recently erupted volcanoes: Kilauea (Hawaii), Dukono (In-
donesia), Santa Maria (Guatemala), and Yasur (Vanuatu).
Global Geological And Climatic Events

5. Kadalundi Mudflats: Located in Kerala’s Kozhikode district, are part of the Kadalundi
Bird Sanctuary /// Form at Kadalundi River’s confluence with the Arabian Sea /// Diminishing due to
sand cover, crucial for migrant shorebirds /// Provide prey like polychaetes and crustaceans for thou-
sands of birds /// Topography: Estuarine wetlands, mudflats, and mangrove forests /// Protected under
Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 /// East Asia-Australasia Flyway stopover for 100 migratory bird species.
Wetland Conservation

6. Southern Annular Mode (SAM): Influences sea conditions in the Indian Ocean,
found INCOIS /// Involves north-south movement of Southern Westerly Winds over timescales of de-
cades to centuries /// Known as Antarctic Oscillation, these winds are persistent in the southern hemi-
spheres mid- to high-latitudes /// Defined by the pressure difference between 40°S (mid-latitudes) and
65°S (Antarctica) /// Positive SAM: Features lower air pressure over Antarctica and higher pressure over
mid-latitudes, with stronger westerly winds contracting towards Antarctica /// Negative SAM: The strong
westerly winds expand northwards, causing cold, wet weather in Patagonia, glacier growth, and reduced
upwelling on the Antarctic Continental Shelf /// Enhances wave prediction accuracy, aiding the fishing
community, shipping, maritime boards, and the oil industry in planning sea operations.
Global Geological And Climatic Events

7. Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary: NTCA to designate it as a core critical tiger habitat, adja-
cent to Bandipur TR /// Located in Karnataka HD Kote taluk, Mysuru district /// Covers a geographic
area of 30.32 sq km, officially declared a WLS by the State /// Features unique geography with Nugu
dam backwaters on the west and borders Alaganchi State Forest, part of Bandipur Tiger Reserve, on the
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southwest /// Flora and fauna: elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, sloth bears, gaurs, sambhars,
chitals, and four-horned antelopes, with flora similar to Bandipur /// Home to riverine wildlife like the
smooth-coated otter and marsh crocodile /// Acts as a buffer area for Bandipur TR within Nilgiri Bio-
sphere Reserve /// Ideal for Core/Critical Tiger Habitat status in Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

8. Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF): Established on August

27, 2023, under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) /// Supports Kunming-Montreal Global Biodi-
versity Framework’s 2030 goals /// Purpose: Mobilize investment and accelerate global biodiversity con-
servation efforts /// Launched at the GEF’s seventh assembly in Vancouver, Canada, with 185 country
representatives /// Governance: GBFF Council with 16 members from developing countries, 14 from
developed countries, and 2 from central/eastern Europe and former Soviet Union /// Decision-making
is consensus-based, following the GEF Instrument model /// Financial Mobilization Goals: 20% for
Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs), 25% to GEF agencies, 36% to Small Island Devel-
oping States (SIDS), and 3% to Least Developed Countries (LDCs) /// Targets to raise international
financial flows to developing countries ($20B by 2025, $30B by 2030) /// Priority Support: Over a third
of resources for SIDS and LDCs for biodiversity conservation /// Financial Management: World Bank
as Trustee, modelled after funds like CBIT Trust Fund, LDCs Fund, Special Climate Change Fund, and
Nagoya Protocol Implementation Fund (NPIF) /// Funding Sources: Governments, philanthropy, private
sector, international financial institutions /// Addressed Threats: Wildfires, flooding, extreme weather,
unsustainable activities, urbanization.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

9. Ozone Hole over Antarctica: Expanding even in spring season /// Layer in strato-
sphere shields us from harmful UV radiation /// UV radiation strongly influences skin cancer rates ///
Hole = Ozone concentrations below 220 Dobson Units /// Hole fluctuates yearly, opening in August,
closing by November or December /// Mechanism: Earth’s rotation generates unique winds over Antarcti-
ca /// Polar vortex isolates polar air, creating a cold environment for ozone-depleting reactions /// Chlo-
rine and bromine compounds catalyze ozone-depleting reactions /// Size and strength of polar vortex
impact ozone depletion /// Cause in 2023: Volcanic eruptions in Tonga releasing water vapor into the
stratosphere /// Wildfires linked to recent ozone depletion instances /// International response: Vienna
Convention in 1985, Montreal Protocol in 1987 /// World Ozone Day on September 16 commemorates
the Montreal Protocol.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc

10. Nidirana Noadihing (the musical frog): Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

/// Identified by its unique call, leading to its discovery /// Named after Noa-Dihing River (large tribu-
tary of the Brahmaputra River, about 380 km long in Upper Assam) /// Features include a robust body,
rounded snout, smooth skin with back bony protrusions, and a pale cream line with dark brown borders
/// Light brown and pinkish throat, forelimbs, thighs, lower legs; pale yellow groin and outer thighs
with dark olive patches /// Habitat: Inhabits swamps, ponds, paddy fields; known to construct nests for
egg-laying.
New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

11. Lantana Camara: Sculptures made from Lantana camara were displayed at a Bengaluru
exhibition /// From verbena family, originates from the American tropics /// Introduced in India during
19th century as an ornamental plant, it was favored for its colorful flowers /// Shrub can spread across
forest floors, climb trees, and intertwine with native vegetation /// Highly adaptable, it thrives in various
ecosystems /// Invasive nature threatens native plants and reduces biodiversity /// Forms dense thick-
ets, altering habitats, impeding animal movement, and changing microhabitat conditions like light and
soil /// Invades agricultural land, lowering crop yields, and infest pastures, affecting livestock grazing ///
Toxic to livestock, posing health risks and economic burdens for farmers /// Increases fire risk in eco-
systems due to its dense, flammable thickets.
Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

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Science Tech
1. Haemoglobin NOT exclusive to RBCs: Scientists find chondrocytes, carti-
lage-producing cells, also produce vital haemoglobin /// Haemoglobin solely in red blood cells (RBCs)
was taught in schools /// A protein in RBCs transporting oxygen from lungs to tissues and organs ///
Comprises four subunits – two alpha-globin chains and two beta-globin chains /// Contains iron bind-
ing to oxygen, forming oxy-hemoglobin /// Carries oxygen from lungs to tissues, releases it for cellular
respiration /// Makes RBCs red when oxygenated, bluish when deoxygenated /// Aids in transporting
CO2 and hydrogen ions from tissues to lungs /// Various types, with HbA being common; can result from
genetic mutations /// Levels vary, in grams per deciliter (g/dL); normal range 12-18 g/dL /// Sickle cell
disease result from abnormal hemoglobin /// Fetal hemoglobin: HbF has higher oxygen affinity, aids
oxygen transfer from mother to fetus /// Oxygen saturation: Measured as percentage of oxygen-bound
hemoglobin, often with pulse oximeter /// “Haemoglobin bodies” (Hedy) found in chondrocytes, resem-
bling RBCs /// Hedy contains haemoglobin, forms large membraneless blobs akin to phase separation.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

2. NexCAR19: NexCAR19, first indigenous CAR-T Cell Therapy for cancer treatment approved
by CDCSO /// CAR-T stands for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy /// Uses genetically modified T
cells to target and destroy cancer cells /// T cells are white blood cells recognizing antigens; CAR-T cells
engineered to target cancer /// Therapy process: T cell collection, genetic modification, infusion back into
the patient /// Chemotherapy may precede CAR-T cell infusion for improved effectiveness /// Effective
against specific cancers, FDA-approved for haematological malignancies like leukaemia, lymphoma, and
multiple myeloma.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

3. Helicobacter Pylori: Researchers develop a two-step PCR-based assay for Helicobacter

pylori detection /// Common bacteria in the digestive tract /// Prefers the acidic stomach environment
/// Often acquired during childhood /// Leading cause of ulcers in stomach and small intestine /// Al-
ter its surroundings to reduce acidity, aiding survival /// Spiral shape enables penetration of stomach
lining, protecting it from immune cells /// Most H pylori infections are asymptomatic /// Symptoms, if
present, often related to gastritis or peptic ulcers /// Symptoms include stomach ache or burning,
worse when the stomach is empty, nausea, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss /// Treatment
involves antibiotics and proton-pump inhibitors (reduce stomach acid) for up to 14 days.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

4. India’s Deep Ocean Mission: India embarks on the DOM to explore and harness the
ocean’s depths /// Initiated by Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and part of PMSTIAC /// DOM’s pil-
lars: technological advancements, climate advisory services, biodiversity exploration, mineral survey, en-
ergy, freshwater harvesting, and marine biology station /// Key objectives: Samudrayaan and Matsya6000
for a crewed expedition to 6,000m depth in the Central Indian Ocean /// Matsya6000 designed from a
titanium alloy to withstand pressures up to 6,000 bar /// Focus on resources like polymetallic nodules
and sulphides found between depths of 3,000 to 5,500 meters /// Successful deep-sea locomotion trials
with Varaha at 5,270 meters, India’s Deep-Ocean Mining System, in the central Indian Ocean.
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

5. Silk Moth Domestication: Silk, derived from the silk moth (Bombyx mori), was do-
mesticated over 5,000 years ago in China from the wild moth (Bombyx mandarina) /// India second-larg-
est producer of raw silk after China /// Caterpillars feed on mulberry leaves (genus Morus) /// Domes-
ticated silk moths are larger and produce longer silk fibers for larger cocoons, up to 900 meters /// Lost
the ability to fly and their pigmentation since domestication /// ‘Wild’ silks, including muga, tasar, and
eri silks, come from other moth species and require less human care /// Non-mulberry silks account

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for about 30% of India’s silk production, with shorter, coarser threads /// Domesticated silk display a
variety of colors due to pigments from mulberry leaves /// Handlers selectively bred for colored silks,
with pigments derived from carotenoids and flavonoids /// Silkworms absorb these chemicals, transport
them to silk glands, and bind them to silk proteins /// Genes Y, C, F, Rc, and Pk play roles in pigment
transportation and absorption, leading to variations in cocoon colors /// Mature caterpillars spin out
silk proteins and pigments into a single fiber to build cocoons /// Mutant strains responsible for co-
coon color diversity resulted from gene mutations linked to pigment uptake and modification /// Apon-
tic-like gene plays a role in pigmentation regulation /// Hybrid offspring can show pigment variations
due to differences in gene regulation sequences.
Textile Sector – Cotton, Jute, Wool, Silk, Handloom, etc

6. Stable Auroral Arc: Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) captured rare Stable Au-
roral Arc in Ladakh /// Occurred during a strong G3-class geomagnetic storm /// Unlike typical auroras
caused by space particles, SAR arcs indicate heat energy from Earth’s ring current /// Ring current is
a circuit with millions of amps around Earth /// Aurora a global event observed in multiple regions ///
Solar wind from the sun’s corona interacts with Earth’s ionosphere /// Names: Northern Hemisphere
calls it northern lights (aurora borealis), Southern Hemisphere calls it southern lights (aurora australis)
/// Hemispheric asymmetry due to sun’s magnetic field interference with Earth’s magnetic field.
ISRO Missions and Discoveries

7. White Holes Theory: Carlo Rovelli’s book “White Holes: Inside the Horizon” explores
white holes /// Theoretical opposites of black holes /// Black holes trap everything, including light,
with intense gravity /// White holes eject matter and light, preventing anything from entering /// Based
on Einstein’s general relativity and Schwarzschild’s 1916 work /// White holes are purely theoretical
and have not been observed /// Hypothesized to bounce objects back, unlike black holes /// Einstein’s
theories suggest this bounce-back, supported by quantum mechanics /// “Loop quantum gravity” pro-
poses black holes could transform into white holes /// Implies space-time undergoes “quantum jumps”
challenging traditional views /// A theory suggests our universe may have started from a white hole, linked
to a prior universe’s black hole.
Gravitational Wave Observations

8. Aldrovandi’s Herbarium: 500-year-old herbarium from Bologna, Italy, has been dis-
covered /// Created by Ulisse Aldrovandi between 1551 and 1586, it provides historical insights /// Con-
tains 5,000 specimens, showing changes in Italy’s flora over centuries /// Reveals human impacts like
habitat loss and alien species invasion in Italy /// Reflects demographic changes in Europe (excluding the
former USSR part) /// Indicates both lost and undiscovered plant species in modern times /// Europe’s
first encounters with American species and their spread is recorded /// Documents early changes in
European flora and habitats, leading to new species introductions and ecological changes.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

9. Euclid Space Telescope: ESA Euclid mission, launched in July 2023 to study dark
matter and dark energy, has released its first five science images /// Images include: galaxy clusters, two
nearby galaxies, a nebula, and a globular cluster /// Euclid is a space telescope mission focused on the
dark Universe’s composition and evolution /// To understand the Universe’s expansion, structure for-
mation, and the roles of gravity, dark energy, and dark matter /// Launched to Sun-Earth Lagrange point
2 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket /// Euclid’s findings include: Perseus Cluster: Captured 1,000 galaxies and
100,000 background galaxies, some 10 billion light-years away, to study dark matter’s influence /// Spiral
Galaxy IC 342: Infrared imaging provided insights into this Milky Way-like galaxy, aiding understand-
ing of similar galactic structures /// Irregular Dwarf Galaxy NGC 6822: Studied as a key component in
larger galaxy formation, revealing galactic structure development /// Globular Cluster NGC 6397 and
Horsehead Nebula: NGC 6397, a globular cluster 7,800 light-years away, and the Horsehead Nebula were
observed to explore early-stage Jupiter-mass planets.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

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10. NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Mission: Set for

launch in early 2024 /// Developed under 2014 partnership between ISRO and NASA /// Planned for a
January 2024 launch from Satish Dhawan Space Centre /// It will enter a near-polar orbit /// Low Earth
Orbit (LEO) observatory, will map the globe every 12 days /// Weighing 2,800 kg, it features dual-fre-
quency L-band and S-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) /// 39-foot stationary gold-plated wire mesh
antenna reflector for focusing radar signals /// NASA contributed L-band radar, GPS, data storage, and
payload data subsystem ///ISRO provided S-band radar, GSLV launch system, and weather observation
/// High-resolution imaging, effective through clouds and in all weather, day or night.
ISRO Missions and Discoveries

11. Amal Kumar Raychaudhuri (1923–2005): Born in Barisal, now in Bangla-

desh /// Pioneered in General Relativity and cosmology, Indian physicist /// Focused on ‘Singularities’
in general relativity, specifically points where gravity could become infinitely strong /// Raychaudhuri
Equation, demonstrated that singularities arise inevitably in general relativity /// Played a pivotal role in
the work of Stephen Hawking and Roger Penrose /// Hawking’s Area Theorem, demonstrating that the
surface area of black holes never decreases, relied on the Raychaudhuri equation.
Gravitational Wave Observations

12. World’s First Chikungunya Vaccine- Ixchiq: US FDA recently approved

Ixchiq, the world’s first vaccine for chikungunya, developed by Valneva /// Single-dose vaccine admin-
istered via muscle injection, containing a live, weakened chikungunya virus /// Approved for people >18
years who have a higher risk of exposure to the virus /// Mosquito-borne (female Aedes aegypti) viral
disease first identified in 1952 in Tanzania /// RNA virus from alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family
/// Symptoms include fever and severe, often debilitating joint pain, similar to dengue and Zika, leading
to potential misdiagnosis.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

13. Freemartins in Animals: Sterile female cattle, often identified by farmers for their
inability to reproduce /// Born as mixed-sex twins, with a 90% occurrence rate in such twin pregnancies
/// Underdeveloped or non-functional reproductive tracts /// Results from blood exchange between
male and female foetuses, sharing Y chromosome cells /// Y chromosome from male foetus leads to male
reproductive organ development in himDisrupting female foetus reproductive system development ///
Physical and behavioral traits to identify and cull freemartins for better breeding efficiency /// Chro-
mosomes, thread-like structures in cell nuclei, are made of protein and DNA /// DNA, carrying unique
instructions for each living creature, is inherited from parents /// Humans have 22 pairs of chromo-
somes plus a pair of sex chromosomes: X and Y /// Biological males have one X and one Y chromosome,
while females have two X chromosomes.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

14. Langlands Program: Largest project in mathematics, Started in 1967 /// Named after
mathematician Robert Langlands from Princeton (US) /// Langlands received the 2018 Abel Prize for
connecting representation and number theory /// Aims to link number theory with harmonic analysis
/// Focuses on associating Galois groups with automorphic functions for analyzing polynomial equa-
tions /// Key achievements: solving historical math problems, notably Fermat’s last theorem through
Langlands’ conjectures /// Facilitates creation of new automorphic functions, aiding in addressing Ra-
manujan conjectures /// Potential to develop new mathematical fields, such as Geometric Langlands,
linking algebraic geometry and representation theory /// Offers multidisciplinary relevance, including
possible applications in physics, like studying electromagnetic waves.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

15. Gamma-Ray Burst: Supernova outside the Milky Way caused a gamma-ray burst two
billion years ago /// Linked to massive star deaths or other cosmic events /// In 2022, these gamma
rays reached Earth, disturbing the ionosphere /// Most energetic light and powerful explosions in the

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universe /// First discovered in the 1960s by satellites designed to monitor Partial Test Ban Treaty ///
Occur during star collapses or neutron star mergers /// Last a few seconds, emitting more energy than
the Sun’s entire lifetime /// Produce an ‘afterglow’ across various wavelengths post-burst /// 2022 burst
disrupted Earth’s ionosphere and activated lightning detectors in India /// Demonstrated ionosphere’s
vulnerability to space events /// Such powerful bursts are expected to hit Earth once every 10,000 years.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

16. Occurrence of Eclipses: Moon’s orbit doesn’t always align with Earth’s Orbital/
Elliptical Plane /// Every month eclipse if the moon’s orbit matched Earth’s ecliptic plane /// Moon’s
orbit is inclined about 5 degrees to Earth’s orbital plane, leading to irregular eclipse patterns /// Moon’s
phases shift about 30 degrees monthly relative to the lunar nodes /// Lunar nodes where the moon’s
orbit intersects Earth’s plane, crucial for eclipse alignment /// Eclipses occurrence: when a full or new
moon aligns with a lunar node /// Eclipse seasons occur every 173 days when lunar nodes align with
Earth and the sun /// Solar and lunar eclipses occur in pairs within about two weeks /// Eclipse seasons,
lasting 34-35 days, typically feature two eclipses, sometimes three /// Total eclipse in 21st century: 224
solar and 230 lunar /// After one pair of eclipses, the next usually happens about 6 months later.
Global Geological And Climatic Events

17. Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE) Mission: NASA to launch

AWE /// Part of Heliophysics Explorers Programme /// Studies impact of atmospheric waves on upper
atmosphere and space weather /// Positioned on ISS (International Space Station) to observe Earth ///
To measure airglow at Mesopause, (85 to 87 km above Earth; -100 Degree Celsius) /// Advanced Me-
sospheric Temperature Mapper (ATMT) to scan the mesopause /// Detect faint airglow in infrared
bandwidth, which is brightest at this altitude /// Vital for maintaining ionosphere’s health, crucial for
communication /// Detailed mapping of airglows in Earth’s atmosphere /// Airglow: Air molecules ab-
sorbing solar UV and X-radiation; occurs 50 to 300 km above Earth, with the brightest area at about 97
km altitude.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

18. International Space Station (ISS): 25th anniversary on November 20, 2023,
with its first module launched in 1998 /// Zarya and Unity Node 1 marked the ISS’s inception, which
evolved into a space lab through 42 assembly flights /// Russia: First ISS module, ‘Zarya’, on Novem-
ber 20, 1998, providing fuel, power, and docking capabilities /// US: Unity Node 1 module on December
4, 1998 /// ISS includes: 6 sleeping quarters, two bathrooms, a gym, and a 360-degree view bay window
/// Dimensions: 109 meters (357 feet) end-to-end, nearly the length of a full American football field ///
Orbits Earth every 90 minutes at 8 kilometers (5 miles) per second /// Solar array wingspan of 109
meters surpasses the Airbus A380’s wingspan of 79 /// 8 meters /// 13 km of electrical wiring /// Scientific
Contributions: advancements in drug development, water purification, muscle and bone atrophy miti-
gation, and food production innovations /// Ukraine War: Future ISS operations face uncertainty due to
geopolitical tensions.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

19. NASA’s Psyche Spacecraft: Successfully transmitted a laser signal to Earth from
16 million km away /// Used Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) transceiver, using near-in-
frared light for data /// Launched on October 13, 2023, from Kennedy Space Center via SpaceX Falcon
Heavy /// Psyche Spacecraft to study the metallic asteroid Psyche between Mars and Jupiter /// Thought
to be an exposed nickel-iron core of an early planet, key to understanding planetary cores /// Objectives:
verifying Psyche’s core status, aging its surface, comparing its composition to Earth’s core, and analyzing
formation conditions /// Equipments: Multispectral Imager, Gamma Ray & Neutron Spectrometer, Mag-
netometer, and X-band Gravity Science Investigation /// DSOC Data rates 10x higher than current radio
systems, enhancing data transmission /// Near-infrared waves in DSOC have shorter wavelengths than
radio waves’ longer wavelengths.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

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20. Casgevy Gene Therapy: UK approved Casgevy, a gene therapy for treating sickle cell
disease and thalassaemia /// First licensed therapy using CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing, which won 2020
Nobel Prize in Chemistry /// Casgevy edits blood stem cells using CRISPR-Cas9 /// Targets BCL11A
gene, crucial for switching from foetal to adult haemoglobin /// Increases foetal haemoglobin produc-
tion, reducing symptoms /// Treatment involves a single procedure: extracting, editing, and reintro-
ducing blood stem cells over about six months /// Apheresis is used, a procedure to remove and return
blood components, /// Sickle Cell Disease: Genetic disorder causing abnormal hemoglobin, leading to
sickle-shaped red blood cells /// Symptoms include severe pain, infections, anaemia, and strokes /// Types
include: HbSS (Sickle Cell Anemia): Two “S” genes cause severe symptoms /// HbSC: One “S” gene and
one “C” gene lead to a milder form /// HbS Beta Thalassemia: One “S” gene and one beta thalassemia gene,
severity varies /// Thalassaemia: Similar to sickle cell disease, it causes severe anaemia /// Patients often
need lifelong blood transfusions and chelation therapy.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

21. Green Leaf Volatiles (GLVs): Signaling threats like herbivore attacks /// Scent
of freshly cut grass is part of a plant communication system involve GLVs /// Plants ‘eavesdrop’ on
distress signals from neighboring plants, preparing for similar threats /// Research on mustard plants
(Arabidopsis thaliana) shows calcium is key in plant defense, with levels spiking when damaged /// GM
plants that fluoresce during calcium surges help track plant reactions to damage and GLV exposure ///
Plants detect and respond to GLVs from neighbors, as seen in modified mustard plants’ fluorescence
/// E-2-HAL and Z-3-HAL trigger significant plant responses.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

22. Teenage Galaxies: James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) provided new insights on
Teenage galaxies /// Formed 2-3 billion years after the Big Bang /// Rapid growth phase is key charac-
teristic /// Key to understanding crucial processes in cosmic adolescence /// Gas temperature in these
galaxies’ star-forming regions is about 24,000 degrees Fahrenheit (13,350 degrees Celsius), hotter than
in modern galaxies /// Indicates unique properties of young stars and gas in these galaxies /// Glowing
with 8 elements, including hydrogen, helium, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, argon, nickel, and silicon /// Ox-
ygen, crucial for understanding past growth /// Presence of glowing nickel, suggest unique massive star
properties /// Part of CECILIA Survey, highlighting JWST’s role in analyzing distant galaxies’ chemistry
/// JWST Launched in 2021, expanded our knowledge of the early universe, focusing on both the earliest
and later cosmic epoch galaxies.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

23. Optical Fibres: Thin glass strands, as thin as human hair, used for high-speed data trans-
mission /// Transmit various information forms, including text, images, and audio, at near-light speeds
over long distances /// Strong, lightweight, and flexible, suitable for underground, underwater, or coiled
installations /// Concept, proposed by physicist Charles Kao about 60 years ago, earned him the 2009
Nobel Prize in Physics /// Total Internal Reflection principle, reflecting light within the glass Fibres ///
Information encoded into light pulses, representing binary digits, and fed into the Fibre /// Offer up
to 10 Gbps bandwidth, far exceeding copper wire capabilities /// Minimal signal loss, allowing for high-
speed, long-distance transmission /// Less susceptible to noise and electromagnetic interference than
copper wire /// Immune to environmental factors, with a glass core that prevents electric current flow.
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

24. Project Q*: OpenAI’s project raising concerns about its potential threat to humanity /// Q*
can solve complex mathematical problems, including those beyond its training data /// Step towards
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), capable of any intellectual task a human can do /// Development
team: includes Ilya Sutskever, Szymon Sidor, and Jakub Pachoki /// Rapidly advance scientific discovery,
raising questions about safety measures /// Capabilities might pose a threat to humanity, influencing
Altman’s dismissal /// Exhibits advanced logical reasoning and abstract concept understanding, causing
concerns about unpredictable behaviors /// Combines deep learning with human-programmed rules

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for enhanced power /// Could surpass human abilities in various fields, leading to control, safety, and
ethical issues /// Q* might generate novel ideas and solve problems pre-emptively, leading to decisions
beyond human control or understanding.
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Art and Culture

1. UNESCO Creative Cities Network: Gwalior and Kozhikode, India, join UNES-
CO Creative Cities Network /// Srinagar in 2022 recognized for Crafts and Folk Arts /// Gwalior in ‘Mu-
sic,’ celebrated for musical heritage and Guru-Shishya Parampara /// Kozhikode in ‘Literature,’ boasts
over 500 libraries /// UNESCO CCN established in 2004 for cultural and creative industries develop-
ment /// Seven categories: Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, Music, Crafts & Folk Art
/// Over 250 cities members’ worldwide /// Aims: Foster innovation, cultural diversity, sustainable urban
development /// Activities: Collaborative projects, cultural events, initiatives /// Selection process: Cities
designated by UNESCO based on creativity criteria /// Other Indian cities in UCCN: Srinagar (Crafts and
Folk Arts), Jaipur (Crafts and Folk Arts), Varanasi (Music), Chennai (Music), Mumbai (Film), Hyderabad
(Gastronomy/Food).
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

2. Enemy Property: Post-1965 India-Pakistan war, Enemy Property (Custody and Registra-
tion) Order enacted /// Custodian of Enemy Property of India (CEPI) established to manage properties
of migrants to hostile nations /// UP holds highest 1,519 enemy properties, 936 linked to Raja of Mah-
mudabad /// India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971 led to migration; properties taken under Defence of
India Rules /// Centre vested these “enemy properties” in Custodian of Enemy Property /// Tashkent
Declaration of 1966 aimed to discuss property return, but Pakistan disposed of assets in 1971 /// Enemy
Property Act of 1968 ensured continuous vesting in Custodian /// Some movable properties catego-
rized as enemy properties /// 2017 Amendment: Parliament passed Enemy Property (Amendment and
Validation) Bill /// Expanded definitions of “enemy subject” and “enemy firm” /// Enemy property still
vests in Custodian even if enemy ceases to be an enemy due to various reasons /// Custodian can dis-
pose of enemy properties with central government approval.
Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

3. Lachit Borphukan (1622-1672): Born on November 24, 1622, led the offensive
against Mughals /// Battle of Saraighat (1671), a major naval battle, was fought on the Brahmaputra in
Guwahati /// Naval strategies influenced India’s naval force and inland water transport infrastructure
/// Lachit Borphukan gold medal, instituted in 1999, honors the best NDA cadet /// Ahom Kingdom
established in 1228 in Assam’s Brahmaputra valley, the Ahom kingdom lasted 600 years /// Founded by
Chaolung Sukapha, it resisted Mughal conquest until British annexation in 1826 /// Replaced Bhuiyans’
political system, relying on forced labor (paiks) /// Ahom society: Clan-based, with Hinduism adopted
alongside traditional beliefs /// Intermarriage with locals fostered Ahom assimilation into Assamese
culture /// Supported poets, scholars, and theatre, translating Sanskrit works into Assamese /// Ahom
historical records ‘Buranjis’ were initially in Ahom language, then Assamese /// Major forts: Chamdhara,
Saraighat, Simlagarh, Kaliabar, Kajali, and Pandu /// Mastered boat bridge construction on the Brahma-
putra.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

4. Materialism in Indian Philosophy: Concept: All existence originates from matter

and denies non-material entities, viewing phenomena like intelligence as matter transformations /// An-
cient philosophies: Indian Lokāyata, Chárváka, Bhautikvad, and Jadavāda /// Lokāyata, or “philosophy
of the people,” focuses on worldliness and instinctive materialism, led by philosophers like Brhaspati,
Ajita, and Jābāli /// Chárváka emphasizes hedonism, prioritizing pleasure /// Bhautikvad and Jadavāda
explore the physical nature of existence /// Early Greek philosophers like Democritus and Epicurus

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also adopted materialistic views /// Evolution of Thought: Ancient materialists considered 4 classical
elements (fire, water, wind, earth) and reality’s diversity through ‘svabhāva’ or self-becoming /// Rejected
divine providence and the existence of unseen worlds, focusing on observable reality /// Ethics of Mate-
rialism: Faced criticism for promoting hedonism, as in the Sanskrit dictum “yāvat jīvēt sukham jīvēt”
(“live happily as long as you live”) /// Rejected moral principles derived from religious or metaphysical
doctrines /// Advocated for ethics based on human reason and experience, not denying ethics but rede-
fining its foundation.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

5. Justice Fathima Beevi (1927-2023): First woman and first Muslim woman judge
of Supreme Court of India, passed away at 96 in Kerala’s Kollam /// Inspired by Anna Chandy, the first
woman judicial officer in Travancore /// 1950 first woman law graduate to receive a gold medal from the
Bar Council /// Legal career as a junior advocate in Kollam, overcoming resistance due to her headscarf
/// Judicial service as a munsiff in 1958, later becoming a district sessions judge in 1974 /// Kerala HC
Judge in 1983, she was elevated to the Supreme Court in 1989 /// Advocated for equality, including in
reservation and constitutional safeguard cases /// Governor of Tamil Nadu from 1997 to 2001 /// In-
volved in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case and political developments.
Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

6. Kambala Buffalo Race: Held in Karnataka’s coastal districts, popular among Tu-
lu-speaking communities /// Involve buffalo races in slushy paddy fields after harvest /// Bunt commu-
nity particularly values Kambala as a prestigious event /// Buffalo pairs are groomed year-round carefully
for major races /// Kambala Types: Negilu (Plough): Entry level buffalo pairs race with lighter ploughs ///
Hagga (Rope): Jockeys race buffaloes using only a rope /// Adda Halage: Participants stand on a hori-
zontal plank pulled by buffaloes /// Kane Halage: A wooden plank with holes is dragged by buffaloes; the
height of water splashing determines the winner /// ‘Kantara movie’ boosted popularity beyond its tra-
ditional areas /// Koraga community faced discrimination in Kambala, being considered “untouchable”
and ill-treated in old days.
Jallikattu Debate

7. Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539): Gurupurab celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, the
founder of Sikhism and its first guru /// Born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now Nankana Sahib in
Pakistan, a Gurudwara marks his birthplace /// Undertook ‘Udasiya,’ extensive spiritual journeys /// Trav-
eled with Mardana, a Muslim minstrel /// Covered the ‘Nau-Khand’ or nine regions of earth, included
major Hindu and Muslim pilgrimage sites and extended to Sri Lanka, Baghdad, and Mecca /// Founded
Sikhism, blending Hindu and Muslim elements, in Punjab in the late 15th century /// Followers, known
as Sikhs, adhere to his teachings /// First of 10 Gurus in Sikhism (Other nine are- Guru Angad, Guru
Amar, Guru Ram Das, Guru Arjan, Guru Hargobind, Guru Har Rai, Guru Har Krishan, Guru Teg Bahadur,
and Guru Gobind Singh) Guru Granth Sahib referred to as the Final Guru /// Teachings are in Guru
Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture /// Written in Gurmukhi script of Punjabi language /// Con-
tains 974 verses of Guru Nanak’s teachings /// Key prayers: Japji Sahib, Asa di Var and Sidh Gosht /// Em-
phasized ‘Ik Onkar’ (the oneness of God), equality, and selfless service /// Social Innovations: Langar:
Community cooking and sharing of food /// Pangat: Eating together without caste distinctions /// Sangat:
Collective decision-making /// Dasvandh: Donating a tenth of earnings to the needy /// Chose Lehna (lat-
er Guru Angad) as his successor, over his own sons /// Passed away on September 22, 1539, leaving a
legacy of spiritual and social reform.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

8. Parthenon Sculptures: Diplomatic dispute between UK and Greece /// 30 ancient

Greek stone sculptures, over 2,000 years old /// Originally part of Parthenon temple in Athens, they
represent Athens’ Golden Age, with the temple completed in 432 BC /// Dedicated to Athena, include a
75-meter piece depicting a procession for Athena’s birthday and others showing gods, heroes, and mythi-
cal creatures /// Significant for their craftsmanship and as part of Greece’s cultural heritage /// Thomas

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Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, removed them in the early 19th century while serving as the British ambassador
to the Ottoman Empire /// British Museum bought them in 1816, claiming Elgin legally acquired them
through a contract with the Ottoman Empire /// Athens accuses Elgin of theft, but he claimed to have
had permission /// Original permission letter is lost, leaving his claim disputed.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

9. Kashi Tamil Sangamam: Second phase of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam from Decem-
ber 17 to 30 /// Celebrates historical and cultural ties between North and South India /// Managed by
IIT Madras and BHU (Banaras Hindu University) /// Aims to unite knowledge and cultural traditions
of both regions, enhancing understanding of shared history and strengthening regional connections ///
Organized by Ministry of Education, supported by ministries like Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tour-
ism, Food Processing, Information & Broadcasting, and the Uttar Pradesh Government /// Aligns with
the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, integrating traditional and modern knowledge systems ///
15th century, King Parakrama Pandya from Madurai sought to build a Lord Shiva temple and traveled
to Kashi (Uttar Pradesh) for a lingam /// Established Shiva lingam in present-day Sivakasi (notable for
making fire-crackers) Tamil Nadu /// Pandyas constructed the Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tenkasi,
southwestern Tamil Nadu, near Kerala, for those unable to travel to Kashi.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

10. Nolamba Pallavas: Recent research uncovered inscriptions, hero stones, and idols of
Shiva Linga and Nandi /// Ruled from the 8th to the 12th century /// across parts of southeast Karnataka,
Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh /// Initially feudatories to the Pallavas, Chalukyas of Badami, Gangas,
and Rashtrakutas, and later to the Chalukyas of Kalyani /// Capitals at Chitradurga, later shifted to He-
mavati /// Predominantly Shaivites, evident in their temple dedications to Lord Shiva /// Founded by
Mangala Nomabathi Raja (735–785 AD) they emerged as governors under the Pallavas and Chalukyas
/// Shifts in allegiance between the Pallavas, Chalukyas, Banas, and Vaidumbas /// Term “Nolambas” be-
came prevalent post the Chalukyas’ resurgence under Vikramaditya I /// Declined after being overrun
by Ganga king Marasimha, who claimed the title Nolambakulantaka /// Known for constructing grand
temples like Kalleshwara Temple in Aralaguppe, Bhoganandishwara Temple in Nandi, and Ramalin-
geshwara Temple in Avani.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

11. Kalbeliya Dance: Showcased at the Rajasthan International Folk Festival /// Performed
by Kalbeliya tribe, known as snake charmers, this dance is vibrant and energetic /// Intricate footwork
and fluid arm and body movements /// UNESCO listed Intangible Heritage List in 2010 songs and danc-
es of Kalbeliyas /// Performed by women in flowing black skirts, the dance mimics serpent movements
/// Women wear an angrakhi (upper body cloth), odhani (headcloth), and lehenga (lower body cloth) in
red and black hues, embroidered /// Male participants play instruments like pungi, dufli, been, khanjari,
morchang, khuralio, and dholak /// Dancers are tattooed, wearing jewelry and garments with mirrors
and silver threads /// Rhythm and speed intensify as the performance progresses /// Dancers often sing
along, adding to the performance’s ambiance /// Drums and cymbals, creating a lively atmosphere.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

Modern India History

1. Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976): A filmmaker apologized for distress caused by
their rendition of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 1922 song Karar Oi Louho Kopat /// KN Islam, born May 24, 1899,
in Churulia, West Bengal, was a notable poet, writer, and musician /// Famous for ‘Nazrulgeeti’ his songs
are beloved in West Bengal and Bangladesh, akin to Rabindranath Tagore’s “Rabindrasangeet /// ” Known
as “Vidrohi Kavi (Rebel Poet),” Nazrul’s over 4,000 songs often protested against injustice and tyranny

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/// Bangladesh’s national poet, Nazrul is also revered in West Bengal, India /// Published in “Banglar
Katha” and “Bhangar Gaan,” symbolizes resistance to British rule /// Written in response to Chittaranjan
Das‘s imprisonment in 1922 by the British.
Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

2. All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB): Formed by Netaji Bose on May 3, 1939, in Makur,
near Unnao, Uttar Pradesh /// To unite left-wing elements in INC and develop alternative leadership ///
Key early members: SS Kavishar, Lal Shankarlal, Vishwambhar Dayalu Tripathi, and others /// First All
India Conference of AIFB was held from June 20-22, 1940, in Nagpur, declaring it a socialist political
party /// 1939: “Forward Bloc” newspaper started by Netaji /// Bose was arrested in July 1940, escaped
in January 1941, and sought support in the Soviet Union and Germany /// Profound in Bihar, without
direct coordination with Bose or the INA /// Reorganized in February 1946 in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh,
and declared a socialist party /// 1946: contested for the Constituent Assembly elections and provincial
legislatures, winning several seats /// 1947: 2nd All India Conference was held in January in Arrah, Bihar
/// Post-Independence: re-established itself as an independent political party under many factions.
Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

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