In News:

India's annual mean temperature rise up from 25.05°C in 2001 to 25.74°C in 2024, Electricity generation from renewable sources increased more than three times in 10 years.

• Released by: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on June 5, 2025, on the occasion of World Environment Day
• Framework Used: UN's Framework for the Development of Environment Statistics (FDES 2013)

Key Highlights:

Climate Trends

• Annual Mean Temperature rose from 25.05°C (2001) to 25.74°C (2024).
• 2024 recorded as India’s hottest year since 1901; also, globally the hottest year in 175 years.
• Annual Minimum and Maximum Temperatures (2021–24):
  • Minimum: 19.32°C → 20.24°C
  • Maximum: 30.78°C → 31.25°C

Rainfall Patterns

• Rainfall shows seasonal concentration between June–September, with signs of shifting patterns such as late onset or extended rains into October.
• No clear long-term trend, reflecting erratic monsoonal behaviour.

Energy Generation

Thermal & Renewable Power (2013–14 to 2023–24)

• Thermal: 7.92 lakh GWh → 13.26 lakh GWh
• Renewable: 65,520 GWh → 2.25 lakh GWh, over 3x increase in renewable energy output in a decade.

Biodiversity and Faunal Statistics

Faunal Diversity

• Global Faunal Species: 16,73,627
  • India's Share: 1,04,561 species
• Habitat-specific Species in India:
  • Soil Ecosystem: 22,404
  • Freshwater Ecosystem: 9,436
  • Mangrove System: 5,023
  • Estuarine Ecosystem: 3,383
  • Marine Fauna (India): 20,613 out of global 2,47,605

Fisheries Production

Inland vs. Marine Fish (2013–14 to 2023–24)

• Inland Fish Production: 61 lakh tonnes → 139 lakh tonnes
• Marine Fish Production: 34 lakh tonnes → 45 lakh tonnes

Public Expenditure (2021–22)

• Environment Sustainability Sector: ?2,433 crore (highest among sectors)
• Conservation of Natural Resources: Increasing trend
• Agro-Forestry: Lowest allocation

New Data indicators introduced

• Ramsar sites
• Access to sanitation
• Transport infrastructure
• Electricity access

In News:

Every year on June 5, people across the globe unite to celebrate World Environment Day, an initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Key Highlights:

• Observed on: June 5 annually
• Initiated by: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• First celebrated: 1973 (following the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment)
• Objective: Promote global awareness and action for environmental protection

Theme for 2025: "Beat Plastic Pollution"

• Focuses on the escalating crisis of plastic pollution and its adverse impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
• Highlights the need to transition away from single-use plastics, promote sustainable consumption, and adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Key Statistics:

• Plastic production: Increased from 2 million tonnes (1950) to 430 million tonnes (2025)
• Marine pollution:19–23 million tonnes of plastic enter aquatic ecosystems annually
• Microplastics detected in oceans, mountains, and the human body

Host Country for 2025: Republic of Korea

• Chosen for its leadership in green innovation and sustainable practices.
• Initiatives include:
  • Advanced waste segregation and recycling systems
  • Bans on single-use plastics in major outlets
  • Promotion of tech-driven eco-solutions

By hosting, South Korea aims to showcase scalable models for combating plastic pollution globally.

Historical Background

• Stockholm Conference 1972 laid the foundation for modern environmental governance.
• UNEP assigns a theme and host country annually to align global action.
• Over 150 countries now participate through:
  • Clean-up drives
  • Tree plantation campaigns
  • Policy forums
  • Environmental education programs

Significance

World Environment Day plays a vital role in:

• Raising awareness on climate change, pollution, deforestation, and sustainability
• Encouraging individual and community-level action
• Facilitating policy dialogue and regulatory reform
• Mobilizing youth leadership in environmental movements

In News:

India is set to operationalise INS Varsha, its first dedicated base for nuclear-powered submarines, by 2026. Located near Rambilli, about 50 km south of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, this high-security facility is part of the classified Project Varsha, aimed at strengthening India’s maritime and nuclear deterrence capabilities in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Key Features:

• Strategic Location: Near deep waters of the Bay of Bengal, facilitating stealthy submarine movement and minimizing detection.
• Infrastructure:
  • Underground pens and tunnel systems to conceal and protect nuclear submarines.
  • Inner and outer harbour facilities; inner harbour completed, work ongoing on breakwaters and jetties.
  • 20 sq. km area, capacity to house at least 10–12 nuclear submarines.
• Stealth Capabilities: Similar to China’s Hainan base, it offers satellite-evasion advantages, crucial for the survivability of SSBNs (nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines).
• Support Facilities: Proximity to BARC Atchutapuram for nuclear infrastructure, enabling swift integration and maintenance of strategic assets.
• Geopolitical Role: Counters Chinese dual-use naval infrastructure at Hambantota (Sri Lanka) and BNS Sheikh Hasina (Bangladesh).

Strategic Significance:

• Enhances second-strike capability, vital for nuclear deterrence under India's nuclear triad.
• Enables undetected deterrent patrols by SSBNs, ensuring survivability in case of counterforce attacks.
• Facilitates rapid access to key chokepoints, especially the Strait of Malacca.

India’s Expanding Nuclear Submarine Fleet

INS Aridhaman – Third SSBN:

• Scheduled for commissioning in 2025.
• 7,000-tonne displacement, more capable than predecessors INS Arihant and INS Arighat.
• Equipped with K-4 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) with a range of 3,500 km.
• Built under the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project by Shipbuilding Centre, Visakhapatnam, with BARC and DRDO support.
• Designed for long-duration deterrent patrols in deep sea.

Future Developments:

• India launched its fourth SSBN in November 2024, with ~75% indigenous content.
• Plans underway for even larger SSBNs and the construction of six nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), starting with two approved 9,800-tonne SSNs for conventional strike and escort roles.

Related Naval Expansion – Project Seabird (Karwar Base):

• Located on the western coast, expanding to accommodate 50 warships and submarines, plus 40 auxiliary vessels.
• Will include a dual-use air station, new dockyard, and multiple dry berths.

In News:

• India and the United States have commenced the fourth edition of their major tri-service military exercise ‘Tiger Triumph’ in the Bay of Bengal, beginning April 1, 2025.
• The two-week-long drill focuses on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and crisis response, marking a significant step in the growing strategic defence partnership between the two nations.

Key Objectives:

• Enhance interoperability between the Indian and U.S. armed forces for joint HADR operations.
• Formulate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for establishing a Combined Coordination Centre (CCC) for joint response during natural disasters and contingency operations.
• Conduct massive maritime and amphibious operations off the coast of Kakinada, following a harbour phase at Visakhapatnam.

Participating Forces and Assets:

India:

• Indian Navy:
  • Ships: INS Jalashwa, INS Gharial, INS Mumbai, and INS Shakti
  • Aircraft: P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft
  • Support: Integral helicopters and landing crafts
• Indian Army:
  • Troops from 91 Infantry Brigade
  • 12 Mechanised Infantry Battalion
• Indian Air Force (IAF):
  • Aircraft: C-130J ‘Super Hercules’
  • Helicopters: Mi-17
  • Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT)

United States:

• U.S. Navy:
  • USS Comstock (amphibious warship)
  • USS Ralph Johnson (guided-missile destroyer)
• U.S. Marine Corps:
  • Marine division troops onboard naval vessels
  • Medical personnel to collaborate with Indian RAMT

Additional Activities:

• Establishment of a Joint Command and Control Centre at the Kakinada naval enclave by the Indian Army and U.S. Marines.
• Setting up of a Joint Medical Camp for humanitarian aid by IAF, Indian RAMT, and U.S. Navy medical teams.
• Training exchanges, sports events, and social interactions between personnel to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

Strategic Significance:

Exercise Tiger Triumph is part of the broader India-U.S. defence cooperation, which includes:

• Army exercises:YudhAbhyas, Vajra Prahar
• Naval drills:Malabar Exercise (with Australia and Japan)

The growing frequency and complexity of such joint drills underline the strategic convergence between India and the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in strengthening maritime security and disaster response mechanisms.

In News:

• Ranchi, Jharkhand, is poised to become the first district in the state to launch a comprehensive campaign for the screening and management of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), now redefined as Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
• The initiative will be carried out under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD).
• The campaign will begin on April 19, marking World Liver Day, and aims to raise awareness and strengthen early detection and treatment of liver disorders in the population.

About NAFLD/MASLD:

• NAFLD refers to fat accumulation in the liver not caused by alcohol consumption.
• It includes two types:
  • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL) – mild form.
  • Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) – severe form, can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, or cancer.
• It is increasingly prevalent in individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome.
• NAFLD is asymptomatic in early stages but can elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and diabetes-related complications.
• Affects all age groups, including children.

Key Features of the Ranchi NAFLD Initiative:

• Two-phase Screening Drive:
  • Phase 1 (April–June): Focus on 30,000 high-risk individuals—those with obesity, diabetes, or hypertension.
  • Phase 2 (July–November): Screening expanded to all adults over 18 years in the district.
• Technical Support: Provided by the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi.
• Mobile Screening Vans:
  • Each van costs approx. ?1 crore.
  • Equipped with FibroScan, an advanced, non-invasive liver diagnostic tool.
  • Services provided free of cost in both urban and rural areas.
• Capacity Building:
  • 30–40 district-level officers to be trained as master trainers.
  • Frontline healthcare workers will be trained to conduct screenings and data collection.
• Health System Strengthening:
  • Referral mechanisms to ensure patients receive specialised care.
  • Data tracking system to maintain records until integration with the national NCD portal.

Public Health Significance:

• As per the district's civil surgeon, 50% of OPD cases are liver-related.
• On average, 25 patients/day are diagnosed with liver disease; five require hospitalisation.
• Early detection through such initiatives can help prevent disease progression and mortality.

Treatment & Prevention of NAFLD:

• No specific drug currently exists for NAFLD.
• Weight loss remains the primary treatment—shown to reduce liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis.
• Management of comorbidities like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes is also recommended.

In News:

The Central Government has notified the Payments Regulatory Board Regulations, 2025, replacing the earlier Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems (BPSS) with a new statutory authority — the Payments Regulatory Board (PRB).

About the PRB

• Legal Basis: Constituted under Section 3 of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
• Objective: To regulate and supervise payment systems in India with broader representation and holistic oversight.

Composition (Total: 6 Members)

• Chairperson: Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Ex-Officio Members:
  • Deputy Governor of RBI in charge of the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS)
  • One RBI official nominated by the RBI Central Board
• Government Nominees:Three members nominated by the Central Government (previous BPSS had none)

Other Key Features:

• Expert Consultation: PRB can invite experts from fields like law and IT as permanent or ad hoc members.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Members must be below 70 years of age
  • Should not hold any legislative office or have material conflicts of interest
• Governance:
  • Board meets at least twice a year
  • Decisions are by majority vote; in case of a tie, the Chairperson (or Deputy Governor) casts the deciding vote.
• Delegation: PRB can delegate functions to RBI officers or sub-committees.

Institutional Support

• The PRB will be supported by the RBI’s DPSS, which will report directly to the board.

Significance of the Reform

• Marks a structural reform in the regulation of India’s rapidly growing payments ecosystem.
• Enhances government oversight through its nominees.
• Aims to improve coordination among various departments (e.g., fintech, digital payments).
• Seeks to provide uniform and consolidated regulation across diverse payment systems.

In News:

The 5th State-Level Shirui Lily Festival resumed in Ukhrul district, Manipur from May 20–24, 2025, after a two-year pause due to ethnic unrest. It marks a symbolic step towards peace, as it involved significant movement through previously restricted areas with heightened security.

About the Shirui Lily Festival:

• Organised by: Manipur Tourism Department
• First Held: 2017
• Venue:Shirui Village, Ukhrul District
• Objective: Promote eco-tourism and create awareness about the endangered Shirui Lily
• Special 2025 Edition: Commemorates the 75th anniversary of the discovery of the Shirui Lily

Key Features (2025 Edition):

• Cultural Events: Traditional dances, gospel rock shows, and live performances at the ShiRock music festival
• Eco-Initiatives: Trash collection drives and conservation awareness campaigns
• Competitions:
  • SheChef Cooking Contest (vegetarian & childhood memory dishes)
  • Miss Shirui Lily 2025 beauty pageant
  • Sports (football, wrestling, tug of war, mini-marathon)
• Adventure Activities: Ziplining, camping, biking
• Special Ceremonies: Unveiling of the 75th Anniversary Memorial and a drone show
• Closing Function: Hosted by senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism

About Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae):

• Botanical Name:Lilium mackliniae
• Discovered by: Botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward in 1946, named after his wife Jean Macklin
• Local Name:KashongTimrawon
• Geographic Range: Exclusively found in the Shirui Hills (2,673 m altitude) of Ukhrul district
• State Flower of Manipur

Ecological and Cultural Significance:

• Endemic Habitat: The species is not viable for transplantation outside its native micro-climate
• Flowering Season: April to June, marked by a breathtaking bloom of pinkish-white bell-shaped flowers
• Cultural Reverence: Associated with the local deity Philava, symbolising spiritual and ecological identity of the Tangkhul Naga tribe
• Global Recognition: Awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society at the London Flower Show in 1950

Conservation Status and Efforts:

• Threats: Habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change
• Conservation Status:Endangered
• Scientific Interventions: ICAR-NEH, under Dr. Manas Sahoo, has developed micropropagation techniques for in-situ conservation

In News:

The Moon, Earth's only natural satellite, exhibits a striking hemispheric contrast. The nearside, visible from Earth, is dominated by dark, flat basaltic plains (mare), while the farside is rugged, heavily cratered, and lacks these features. This asymmetry has long puzzled scientists.

Recent findings from NASA's GRAIL (Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory) mission, launched in 2011, have provided critical insights into this phenomenon.

GRAIL Mission: An Overview

• Objective: To map the Moon’s gravitational field in unprecedented detail.
• Spacecraft: Two identical probes named Ebb and Flow.
• Method: By measuring the tiny variations in the distance between the probes as they orbited the Moon, scientists could infer differences in crust thickness, interior composition, and subsurface structures.

Key discoveries:

• The Moon’s crust is more porous and thinner than previously thought.
• Detection of long, linear features called dikes, indicating early lunar expansion.

Reasons for Lunar Asymmetry

• Tidal Deformation and Gravitational Asymmetry
  • The nearside flexes more than the farside during the Moon’s elliptical orbit, a result of tidal deformation caused by Earth’s gravity.
  • The increased internal heat and flexibility on the nearside suggest it is warmer and more geologically active at depth.
• Volcanic Activity and Heat Distribution
  • The nearside experienced intense volcanic activity billions of years ago, forming the large mare regions.
  • This activity led to the concentration of radioactive, heat-producing elements (like thorium and titanium) in the nearside mantle.
  • The nearside mantle is 100–200°C hotter than the farside, establishing a long-term thermal imbalance.
• Crustal Thickness and Surface Composition
  • The nearside crust is significantly thinner, allowing magma to reach the surface more easily, contributing to extensive lava flows.
  • The thicker farside crust restricted such activity, preserving its rugged, cratered appearance.

Implications for Space Science and Earth

• The findings aid in developing precise lunar navigation and positioning systems, essential for future human missions.
• The methodology can be applied to other celestial bodies like Enceladus (Saturn) and Ganymede (Jupiter), both candidates in the search for life.
• Understanding the Moon's structure enhances our grasp of Earth-Moon gravitational dynamics, which affect tides and planetary stability.

In News:

In May 2025, the Telangana government announced the sanctioning of 10,000 Indiramma houses to Chenchu tribal families under a saturation approach in four Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDA)—Utnur, Bhadrachalam, Munnanur, and EturuNagaram. An additional 700 units per ST assembly constituency have also been approved within these ITDA areas.This move aligns with the state’s commitment to improving housing infrastructure in tribal areas.

About Chenchu Tribe

Classification:

• Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Andhra Pradesh
• Also found in Telangana, Karnataka, and Odisha

Habitat:

• Primarily inhabit the Nallamalai forests (Eastern Ghats)
• Chenchu settlements are called “Penta”, consisting of kin-based scattered huts

Language:

• Native Chenchu language (Dravidian family)
• Many also speak Telugu

Social Structure:

• Small conjugal families with gender equality
• Village elder, known as “Peddamanishi”, serves as the community authority

Livelihood:

• Forest-based subsistence lifestyle
• Depend on collection of non-timber forest produce (NTFPs) such as:
  • Roots, tubers, fruits, beedi leaves, honey, gum, mohua flowers, tamarind
• Some serve as forest laborers, but mostly rely on traditional hunting and gathering

Religion & Culture:

• Worship local deities; blend of indigenous and Hindu practices
• Hold deep spiritual ties with the Srisailam Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva and Devi Brahmaramba), which lies at the heart of their region
• Chenchus enjoy customary privileges at the Srisailam shrine

In News:

A former SpaceX employee has filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging wrongful termination. According to the claim, the individual was fired due to frequent restroom visits linked to Crohn’s disease, a chronic medical condition. The case has drawn attention to the difficulties faced by individuals managing long-term illnesses in demanding work environments.

Key Details:

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It is a lifelong condition that can significantly impact quality of life and daily functioning.

Key Features:

• Nature of the Disease:A persistent and often progressive condition marked by inflammation in different sections of the digestive tract, most frequently affecting the end of the small intestine (ileum) and the beginning of the large intestine (colon).
• Extent of Inflammation:Inflammation may penetrate deep into the bowel wall, leading to pain, damage, and complications over time.
• Common Symptoms:
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue and sometimes malnutrition

Symptoms can vary in severity and may appear intermittently, often referred to as “flare-ups.”

Complications and Impact

Crohn’s disease can be debilitating and may result in serious complications, including:

• Intestinal blockages
• Fistulas (abnormal connections between body parts)
• Abscesses
• Nutritional deficiencies

Treatment and Management

• No Cure Available:While there is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, medical therapies can effectively manage symptoms and inflammation.
• Goals of Treatment:
  • Inducing and maintaining remission
  • Healing affected intestinal tissues
  • Improving overall quality of life
• Treatment Approaches:
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Immune system suppressors
  • Dietary changes
  • In severe cases, surgery may be required

Many individuals with Crohn’s can lead productive lives with appropriate treatment and support.

About the OIC

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the world’s second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, comprising 57 member states across four continents. It was established on September 25, 1969, following the historic summit held in Rabat, Morocco, which was convened in response to the arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem.

Objectives and Purpose

The OIC’s primary goals are to:

• Preserve and promote Islamic values.
• Safeguard the national sovereignty and independence of its member states.
• Contribute to international peace and security.
• Serve as the collective voice of the Muslim world, protecting their interests across economic, social, and political spheres.

Structure and Headquarters

• The OIC’s headquarters is located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Its official languages are Arabic, English, and French.

Membership

Notable member countries include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, the Palestinian Authority, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen, among others.

Principal Organs of the OIC

1. Islamic Summit Conference (ISC):The highest authority of the OIC, meeting every three years to set the organization’s policies and strategic direction.
2. Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM):Convening annually, the CFM reviews and oversees the implementation of decisions made by the Islamic Summit.
3. General Secretariat:The executive branch responsible for executing the resolutions of the ISC and CFM.

Additionally, the OIC has established various ministerial-level committees—some chaired by heads of state—to coordinate cooperation among member countries in political, economic, cultural, social, spiritual, and scientific fields.

Partnerships and Global Engagement

The OIC collaborates closely with international organizations, including all specialized agencies of the United Nations, as well as governments and civil society organizations (CSOs). These partnerships help address concerns affecting its member states and the global Muslim community.

In News:

India is set to induct INS Tamal, the second advanced stealth frigate of the Krivak-III class, built in Russia under a bilateral defence contract.

About INS Tamal

• Type & Class:INS Tamal is a 3,900-tonne stealth frigate, part of the Krivak-III class deal signed in 2016 between India and Russia. It is the sister ship of INS Tushil, commissioned in December 2024.
• Builder & Collaboration:Constructed at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, under India-Russia defence cooperation.
  The contract includes four frigates: two built in Russia and two under construction at Goa Shipyard with technology transfer.

Key Features

• Stealth Technology:Equipped with advanced suppression systems for radio, infrared, and acoustic signatures to enhance survivability.
• Armaments:
  • BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles (range approx. 450 km)
  • Shtil surface-to-air missiles
  • Anti-submarine torpedoes and rocket launchers
• Performance:
  • Speed exceeding 30 knots
  • Can deploy Kamov-28 and Kamov-31 helicopters for anti-submarine warfare and airborne early warning.
• Automation: High automation reduces crew workload and improves operational efficiency.

Strategic Importance

• Enhances India’s blue-water naval capabilities across air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains.
• Strengthens naval deterrence and force projection in the Indo-Pacific region, especially amid rising tensions in the Arabian Sea.
• Demonstrates successful Make in India initiative combined with global collaboration, as two of the frigates are being built domestically at Goa Shipyard.

In News:

The Prime Minister of India recently held bilateral talks with Angolan President João Lourenço in New Delhi. During the meeting, India offered Angola a $200 million defence credit line and discussed expanding cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, defence, and space technology. The visit also commemorates the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola.

About Angola

• Location: Southwestern Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
• Capital: Luanda, a major coastal port city.
• Neighbouring countries: Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Namibia, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Special territory: Includes the exclave of Cabinda, located north of the main territory.

Geographical Features

• Major Plateaus:Bié Plateau (~2,600 m), Huíla Plateau (~2,300 m), Malanje Highlands.
• Highest Point: Mount Moco (2,620 m or 8,596 ft) near Huambo.
• Rivers:
  • Cuanza (Kwanza): Largest river entirely within Angola.
  • Cunene River: Forms part of the border with Namibia.
  • Cuango River: Tributary of the Congo River.
  • Other rivers drain into the Zambezi and Okavango river systems.
• Desert: Southwest Angola forms part of the Namib Desert.
• Climate: Tropical with distinct rainy and dry seasons, influenced by the cold Benguela ocean current.

Demographics and Economy

• Ethnic groups: Predominantly Bantu-speaking, including Ovimbundu, Kimbundu, and Bakongo communities.
• Economic importance:
  • One of Africa’s leading oil producers.
  • Rich mineral resources including diamonds, iron ore, copper, and gold.
  • The northeast is notable for diamond deposits found in river gravels.

In News:

The European Space Agency (ESA) has officially retired its Gaia space observatory after over nine years of pioneering work in astrometry. Launched in December 2013, Gaia was designed to create the most detailed three-dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy, transforming our understanding of its structure, evolution, and constituents.

About Gaia

• Mission Objective: Gaia aimed to precisely measure the positions, distances, motions, and physical properties of over 2 billion stars within the Milky Way. Its data helps scientists study the galaxy’s formation, predict its future evolution, and explore celestial phenomena.
• Orbit & Technology: Stationed at the second Lagrange point (L2), about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, Gaia operated beyond the disturbances of Earth’s atmosphere, sun, and moon. Equipped with twin telescopes focusing light onto a nearly one-billion-pixel digital camera—the largest ever deployed in space—the observatory had three key instruments: an astrometer, photometer, and spectrometer to measure stellar positions, brightness, and compositions.

Major Contributions and Discoveries

• 3D Galactic Map: Gaia revealed the warped and wobbling nature of the Milky Way’s disc, mapped its spiral arms and central bulge, and detailed its dynamic evolution shaped by ancient galactic collisions. These findings shed light on events influencing the formation of stars including our Sun.
• New Black Holes: The mission identified previously unseen black holes detectable only by their gravitational influence, marking a first in astronomical observations.
• Asteroid Cataloguing: Gaia tracked the paths of over 150,000 asteroids, enabling better prediction of their trajectories and potential threats to Earth.
• Legacy and Data: Although Gaia has mapped approximately 2% of the galaxy’s stars so far, its extensive data sets continue to be processed and released, promising decades of future scientific breakthroughs.

End of Mission and Legacy

In March 2025, ESA safely deactivated Gaia by draining its energy and shifting it to a retirement orbit around the Sun, ensuring it does not interfere with upcoming missions. While the spacecraft’s active observations have ended, Gaia’s rich data legacy remains invaluable to astronomers worldwide.

In News:

GE Aerospace has commenced delivery of F404-IN20 jet engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A. This marks a significant milestone in India’s indigenous defence production capabilities and is vital for bridging the Indian Air Force's (IAF) operational gaps.

Background on Tejas LCA Mk1A

• Tejas LCA Mk1A is an advanced version of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) developed by HAL.
• It incorporates over 40 improvements over the Mk1 variant, aimed at enhancing combat readiness, survivability, and ease of maintenance.

Key Features:

• Radar Systems:
  • Israeli EL/M-2052 AESA Radar.
  • Indigenous Uttam AESA Radar (under integration).
• Electronic Warfare:
  • Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS).
  • Advanced Self-Protection Jammer Pod.
• Weapons Capability:Nine hardpoints supporting Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground missiles, and Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM).
• Digital Fly-by-Wire System:Upgraded Flight Control Computer (DFCC Mk1A).
• Improved Operational Efficiency:Reduced weight, enhanced maintainability, and faster sortie turnaround.

Engine Deliveries and Production Status

• First Engine Delivered: March 26, 2025; expected in India by April.
• Engine Type: F404-IN20 by GE Aerospace – a high-thrust variant tailored for IAF needs.
• Key Engine Features:
  • Higher-flow fan, single-crystal turbine blades, and customized components.
  • Achieved Mach 1.1 during Tejas’ maiden flight in 2008.

Delivery Commitments:

• 2025 Target: 12 engines and 12 Tejas Mk1A jets to be delivered.
• Full Order: 99 engines ordered in 2021.
• Production Goal: HAL to produce 24 aircraft per year.
• Current Readiness: Three Mk1A jets flying; 11 more expected by end-2025 (10 from Bengaluru, 1 from Nasik).

Production Challenges:

• Engine production was dormant for five years.
• Reinitiating during the COVID-19 pandemic caused further delays.
• GE has now stabilized its supply chain and resumed engine production.

Strategic Importance for IAF

• Current IAF Strength: 31 fighter squadrons (sanctioned strength: 42.5).
• Urgency: Older aircraft like Jaguar, MiG-29UPG, and Mirage-2000 will begin phasing out by decade-end.
• Future Platforms: LCA Mk2 is under development; AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), India’s 5th-gen stealth fighter, is still a decade away.

Policy Push:A high-level committee led by the Defence Secretary submitted recommendations to the Defence Minister for enhancing IAF capabilities in short, medium, and long-term.

In News:

Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. These ticks become carriers when they feed on infected animals, such as rodents. Importantly, Lyme disease does not spread from person to person, nor through food, water, air, pets, or other insects like mosquitoes and flies.

The disease is primarily reported in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, particularly in wooded and grassy regions during the warmer months. In the United States, it is most prevalent in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and upper Midwestern states.

Symptoms and Progression

Lyme disease often begins with a characteristic red, expanding rash called erythema migrans, which may appear in a bull’s-eye pattern. Early symptoms also include fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. If untreated, it can progress to cause:

• Neurological issues: meningitis, facial palsy (Bell’s palsy), nerve pain, and brain inflammation.
• Cardiovascular problems: irregular heartbeat and heart block.
• Musculoskeletal symptoms: arthritis, joint pain (especially in the knees), and swelling.
• Other effects: dizziness, vision problems, memory issues, and concentration difficulties (often referred to as “brain fog”).

Treatment Protocol

Lyme disease is primarily treated with antibiotics, especially when diagnosed early. Common antibiotics include doxycycline (for adults and children over 8 years), amoxicillin (for younger children and pregnant women), cefuroxime, and azithromycin (for those allergic to other options). The treatment duration varies:

• Localized skin infections: 14 days
• Early disseminated infections: 21 days
• Lyme arthritis: 28 to 60 days
• Severe or neurological cases may require intravenous antibiotics like ceftriaxone

In some cases, symptoms may persist even after treatment, a condition known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). While the exact cause is unknown, continued antibiotic use does not improve outcomes, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms.

Recent Scientific Breakthrough

In a major scientific advancement, researchers have identified a crucial enzyme—lactate dehydrogenase specific to Borrelia burgdorferi (BbLDH)—which plays a vital role in the bacterium's survival and infectivity. Unlike most organisms that rely on thiamin-dependent metabolism, B. burgdorferi uniquely depends on BbLDH to convert pyruvate to lactate, maintaining its NADH/NAD+ balance.

The research, conducted at Virginia Commonwealth University and published in mBio, demonstrated through genetic, biochemical, and structural analysis that BbLDH is essential for the growth and infection capability of the Lyme disease bacterium. Loss-of-function studies confirmed its indispensability, both in laboratory and in vivo models.

High-throughput screening of chemical compounds led to the identification of several promising BbLDH inhibitors. These inhibitors could form the basis for future, highly targeted treatments against Lyme disease. Moreover, the findings have broader implications for tackling other tick-borne illnesses.

In News:

The Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook 2025 highlights a concerning rise in night-time temperatures in Hyderabad, attributed to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. This growing urban microclimatic issue has critical public health and environmental implications.

What is Urban Heat Island (UHI)?

• Definition: UHI is a climatic phenomenon where urban areas record significantly higher temperatures than surrounding rural or peri-urban regions, particularly at night.
• Cause: Result of urbanization and human activities that alter land surfaces and trap heat.

Key Factors Contributing to UHI

• Reduced green cover: Shrinking vegetation limits natural cooling via shade and evapotranspiration.
• High density of concrete structures: Buildings and roads absorb solar radiation during the day and release heat slowly at night.
• Urban layout: Tall buildings and narrow streets trap warm air, reducing air circulation.
• Anthropogenic heat: Emissions from vehicles, air conditioners, and industries contribute to localized warming.
• Surface characteristics: Dark tarred roads absorb more heat and release it at night, worsening night-time UHI.

Hyderabad Case Study: Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook 2025

• Temperature Difference:
  • Night-time: Core city is 1.9°C warmer than surrounding peri-urban and outer zones.
  • Daytime: Interestingly, the core is 0.7°C cooler due to shade from tall buildings.
• Peak UHI Season: March to August.
• Most Affected Zones: High-rise, concrete-dense city centers with low vegetation.

Health Impacts of UHI

According to medical experts:

• Physical Effects:
  • Heat exhaustion & heat strokes
  • Dehydration, skin issues
  • Cardiovascular and kidney stress
• Vulnerable Groups: Elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions.
• Biological Mechanism: Prolonged exposure increases pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to immune suppression and chronic fatigue.
• Mental Health: UHI contributes to sleep disturbances, psychological stress, and anxiety.

Government Response

• Clean and Green Energy Policy 2025: Telangana aims to promote cooler, greener cities.
• Recommended Actions:
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration among urban planners, healthcare professionals, and community experts.
  • Urban design incorporating green infrastructure and heat-resilient materials.

In News:

Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) has emerged as a public health concern in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Lucknow, due to poor measles vaccination coverage. Despite being rare globally, cases remain alarmingly high in regions with incomplete immunisation.

About SSPE:

• SSPE is a progressive and fatal neurological disorder that appears several years after a person has recovered from measles (rubeola).
• It is caused by a persistent measles virus in the brain, which triggers chronic inflammation and gradual destruction of nerve cells.
• Though globally rare, SSPE is more prevalent in areas with low immunisation rates. Males and children from low-income families are more commonly affected.

Symptoms:

• Early signs: cognitive decline, poor academic performance, behavioural changes (irritability, hallucinations), and sleep disturbances.
• Progression: seizures, involuntary muscle jerks, speech deterioration, visual impairment, and motor dysfunction.
• Advanced stage: muscle rigidity, difficulty swallowing, risk of aspiration pneumonia, coma, and eventual death.

Treatment & Prevention:

• No cure exists, and the mortality rate approaches 100%.
• Treatment focuses on symptom management; antiviral and immune-boosting drugs may slow progression.
• Timely measles vaccination is the only effective prevention strategy.

Significance for Public Health:

• SSPE underscores the critical importance of achieving universal immunisation coverage.
• Experts recommend stronger awareness campaigns and better enforcement of the Universal ImmunisationProgramme (UIP) to eliminate measles and prevent SSPE.

In News:

Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been declared India’s 58th Tiger Reserve and the 9th in Madhya Pradesh, strengthening the state's status as a leader in tiger conservation.

About Madhav National Park

• Location: Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh; part of the Chambal region and the Upper Vindhyan Hills on the northern fringe of the Central Highlands.
• Established: As Madhya Bharat National Park in 1955; renamed Madhav National Park in 1959.
• National Park Status: Since 1958.
• Area: Approx. 354 sq km (expanded from 165 sq km).
• Historical Significance: Former hunting ground of Mughal emperors and Maharaja of Gwalior; named after Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia.

Ecological Profile

• Vegetation:
  • Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
  • Dry Thorn Forests typical of North-Western Madhya Pradesh
• Fauna:
  • Large Mammals: Tigers, leopards, wolves, jackals, foxes, wild dogs
  • Antelopes: Nilgai, Chinkara, Chowsinga
  • Deer Species: Chital, Sambar, Barking Deer
  • Others: Crocodiles, porcupines, wild pigs, pythons
• Aquatic Ecosystems:
  • Two major lakes: Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar support aquatic biodiversity

Tiger Conservation Highlights

• Declared a Tiger Reserve: In 2024, becoming India’s 58th and Madhya Pradesh’s 9th.
• Tiger Reintroduction: Began in 2023; currently home to five tigers, including two cubs.
• Core and Buffer Zones:
  • Core Zone: Strictly protected, no human activity
  • Buffer Zone: Allows limited, regulated human use to support coexistence

Governance and Protection Framework

• Tiger Reserve Status:
  • Notified under Section 38V of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
  • Falls under Project Tiger (1973), monitored by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)
• Approval Process:
  1. State Government Proposal
  2. NTCA Evaluation
  3. MoEFCC Final Notification
• Monitoring System: M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers – Intensive Protection and Ecological Status) used for surveillance and conservation.

In News:

Recently, a rare civet cat, typically native to the Seshachalam forests near Tirumala, was unexpectedly sighted near Tadepalli in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh. The animal entered a residential area, startling locals, and was later safely rescued and examined by forest officials.

About Civet Cats

• Taxonomy:Civets belong to the Viverridae family, which includes civets, genets, oyans, and linsangs. There are 15–20 species across 10–12 genera.
• Distribution:Found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia, including eight wild species in India.
  • Common Palm Civet and Small Indian Civet are widely distributed.
  • The Malabar Large-spotted Civet (Viverracivettina) is critically endangered and endemic to the Western Ghats.
• Conservation Status:The Malabar Civet is listed as Critically Endangered under the IUCN Red List.

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Cat-like, with thickly furred tail, pointed snout, and small ears.
• Size: Body length: 40–85 cm; Tail: 13–66 cm; Weight: 1.5–11 kg.
• Coloration: Usually buff or grayish, with black spots, stripes, or both.

Behavior and Habitat:

• Nocturnal and Solitary: Typically dwell in tree hollows, rocks, or similar secluded areas.
• Diet: Primarily frugivorous and insectivorous, occasionally feeding on small animals.
• Habitat Range: Though mostly forest-dwelling, rare sightings in urban zones have occurred, as seen in the Tadepalli incident.

Significance of Recent Sighting:

• The civet descended from Tadepalli hills and entered a home, prompting forest department intervention.
• Identified as a rare species similar to African civets.
• Medically examined, found healthy, and is to be rehabilitated into the wild.
• The incident highlights growing human-wildlife interactions and the need for urban wildlife awareness.

In News:

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the District Magistrate of Keonjhar, Odisha, over alleged human rights violations concerning the Juanga tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in the region.

About Juanga Tribe

• One of 13 PVTGs among 62 tribal communities in Odisha.
• Population: ~50,000 (2011 Census).
• Primarily located in Keonjhar and Dhenkanal districts, especially in the Gonsaika hills of Banspal block, Keonjhar.
• Language: Juang, a Munda language of the Austroasiatic family.
• Known for their clan structure, kinship ties, and animistic beliefs blended with Hindu practices. Their sun god is regarded as the supreme deity.
• Traditional livelihood: Initially hunters and gatherers, later adapted to basket-weaving and bartering after forest reserves were declared during British rule.
• Traditional clothing: Women wore leaf girdles; men used small loincloths. Post-contact, they adopted external clothing practices.

Alleged Human Rights Violations

• The petition highlighted lack of basic amenities in 114 Juanga villages:
  • Healthcare: Nearest PHC is 15 km away; residents must carry patients on cots. Limited access to Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana or National Health Card.
  • Infrastructure: Absence of all-weather roads, schools, and safe drinking water.
  • Tragic case: Deaths of SuniaJuanga (35), his wife Rashmi (30), and their six-month-old daughter due to lack of timely medical help in Jantari village.
  • Social issues: No official records on child marriages, orphans, or other vulnerable groups among the Juangas.

NHRC's Directive

• NHRC asked for a detailed report within four weeks from the district administration.
• The petition also criticized underutilization of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds, despite Keonjhar being one of the top fund-holding districts.

In News:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the indigenous Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR) with a ‘Man-in-Loop’ capability from a Seaking 42B naval helicopter at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Man-in-Loop Functionality:
  • Provides real-time human intervention during flight.
  • Enables in-flight retargeting by transmitting live seeker images to the pilot through a high-bandwidth two-way data link.
  • Offers tactical flexibility in selecting and engaging specific targets among multiple options.
• Guidance and Navigation:
  • Launched in Bearing-Only Lock-On After Launch (BOLOAL) mode.
  • Equipped with an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker for terminal phase guidance.
  • Uses an Indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS) and a Radio Altimeter for accurate mid-course and low-altitude navigation.
• Design and Control:
  • Features Electro-Mechanical Actuators and Jet Vane Control for enhanced maneuverability.
  • Integrated avionics module, thermal batteries, and PCB warhead support precise targeting and mission efficiency.
• Stealth and Strike Capability:
  • Operates in Sea-Skimming Mode to evade radar detection.
  • Demonstrated a direct hit on a small ship target at its maximum range during trial.
• Propulsion:Powered by solid propulsion, featuring an in-line ejectable booster and long-burn sustainer.

Development and Significance:

• Jointly developed by DRDO and the Indian Navy.
• Key DRDO labs involved:
  • Research Centre Imarat (RCI)
  • Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL)
  • High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)
  • Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)
• Marks India’s capability in indigenous anti-ship missile systems with advanced features like man-in-loop control and high-precision targeting.
• Enhances India’s naval warfare and coastal defense capabilities, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense manufacturing.

In News:

IN-SPACe, India’s space sector regulator under the Department of Space, has launched the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) to accelerate the commercialization of indigenous space technologies.

About TAF:

• Objective: To bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and market-ready space solutions developed by Indian startups, MSMEs, and industries.
• Goal: Reduce dependence on imported technologies and strengthen India's position in the global space sector.

Key Features:

• Financial Support:
  • Startups/MSMEs: Up to 60% of project cost.
  • Larger industries: Up to 40%.
  • Funding cap: ?25 crore per project.
• Eligibility: Open to all non-government entities (NGEs) with commercially viable space innovations.
• Support Provided:
  • Partial funding for development and commercialization.
  • Technical mentoring and guidance.
• Focus Areas: Launch vehicles, satellites, space-based applications, and related services.
• Outcomes Expected:
  • Development of new space products.
  • Intellectual property generation.
  • Enhanced production capabilities.
  • Economic growth and job creation.

About IN-SPACe:

• Established: 2020
• Ministry: Department of Space
• Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Role: Single-window agency promoting private participation in India's space ecosystem.
• Functions:
  • Authorizes and monitors private sector space activities.
  • Facilitates access to ISRO infrastructure.
  • Collaborates with academia, industry, and research bodies.

Significance:

• Encourages private innovation in space tech.
• Aligns with the larger vision of making India a hub for space entrepreneurship.
• Strengthens India’s self-reliance and competitiveness in global space technology.

Brazil Joins OPEC+

Source: Times of India

In News:

In February 2025, Brazil officially joined OPEC+, a coalition of oil-producing nations. This development comes ahead of Brazil hosting COP30, the annual UN climate summit.

About OPEC and OPEC+

• OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries):
  • A permanent intergovernmental organization established in 1960 at the Baghdad Conference.
  • Aims to coordinate and unify petroleum policies to ensure stable prices and regular supply.
  • Headquartered in Vienna, Austria.
  • Current members include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, UAE, Nigeria, Libya, Algeria, and others.

• OPEC+ Formation:
  • Created in 2016 to stabilize oil markets, particularly in response to rising U.S. shale oil production.
  • Includes 12 OPEC members plus 11 non-OPEC countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, Mexico, and now Brazil (2025).
  • Functions as a forum for strategic discussions but not all members are bound by production quotas.

Brazil’s Role and Strategic Significance

• Oil Production Status:
  • Seventh-largest oil producer globally, with around 4.3 million barrels/day.
  • In 2024, crude oil became Brazil’s top export, overtaking soybeans.
• OPEC+ Membership:
  • Brazil joins the Charter of Cooperation but retains autonomy in production decisions.
  • It seeks to influence global oil policy while protecting its energy interests.
• Balancing Act:
  • While focusing on oil revenue for economic growth and energy transition funding, Brazil also pursues renewable energy through agencies like IRENA.
  • This dual approach reflects an attempt to align development with environmental commitments.

Environmental Concerns and Criticism

• Brazil’s decision to expand oil exploration—especially near sensitive ecosystems like the Amazon—has drawn criticism.
• Environmentalists argue it contradicts climate goals, particularly as Brazil prepares to host COP30.

Note:

• OPEC+ is not a formal organization but a strategic alliance.
• Brazil is part of OPEC+ but is not bound by production quotas.
• OPEC’s headquarters is in Vienna, Austria (Austria is not an OPEC member).
• India is not a member of OPEC or OPEC+.

In News:

On February 12, 2025, Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, erupted once again, spewing lava flows and dense ash clouds into the atmosphere. The event drew attention not just due to its visual spectacle, but also because of the geological, environmental, and socio-economic implications it carries.

About Mount Etna

• Location: Eastern coast of Sicily, Italy — the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Type:Active stratovolcano, known for frequent eruptions.
• Height & Size: Highest peak south of the Alps and tallest active volcano in Europe; rises over 3,300 meters and covers 1,190 sq. km with a basal circumference of 140 km.
• Tectonic Setting: Lies above the convergent boundary of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity.
• Eruption History: Recorded to have erupted over 200 times since 1500 BCE, with persistent volcanic activity.
• UNESCO Recognition: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 for its exceptional geological features, cultural relevance, and continuous scientific monitoring.
• Decade Volcano Status: Designated a Decade Volcano by the United Nations due to its proximity to densely populated areas, including the city of Catania, and the potential risk it poses, warranting special scientific attention.

In News:

Recent outbreaks of suspected Ranikhet disease (Newcastle Disease) have caused the death of approximately 1.5 lakh chickens in poultry farms across Andhra Pradesh (Eluru, Guntur, Prakasam, and the Godavari districts) and Haryana (Barwala and Raipur Rani in Panchkula). These outbreaks have raised alarms about biosecurity measures, especially in regions that are major poultry producers.

About Ranikhet Disease:

• Also known as: Newcastle Disease (ND)
• Causative Agent: Avian avulavirus 1 (also called Avian Paramyxovirus-1 or APMV-1)
• Affected Species: Primarily chickens, but also turkeys, ducks, pigeons, crows, geese, guinea fowls, partridges, doves, and even hedgehogs (suspected reservoirs).
• Nature of Disease: Highly contagious and fatal viral disease.
• Transmission:
  • Direct contact with infected bird secretions (especially feces)
  • Contaminated feed, water, equipment, clothing, and environment
  • ND virus can survive for weeks in cool environments, increasing risk in winter.

Symptoms and Impact:

• In Birds:
  • Respiratory issues: Sneezing, gasping
  • Nervous symptoms: Droopiness, loss of coordination
  • Digestive symptoms: Diarrhea
  • Mortality rate: Ranges from 50% to 100%
  • Production impact: Drop in egg production and fertility
• In Humans:
  • Mild zoonotic effect, primarily conjunctivitis in people handling infected birds or lab samples.
  • Usually self-limiting and non-fatal.

Recent Outbreaks and Investigations:

Andhra Pradesh:

• Approximately 1.5 lakh birds have died across multiple districts.
• Suspected cause: Highly virulent strain of Ranikhet Disease.

Haryana (Barwala–Raipur Rani belt):

• This belt houses around 115 poultry farms and is the second-largest poultry producer in Asia.
• Previously affected by bird flu outbreaks in 2006 and 2014.
• Northern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NRDDL), Jalandhar collected 40 new samples from affected farms after being unsatisfied with earlier ones.
• Preliminary suspicion points toward Ranikhet Disease; however, cold wave conditions and the presence of older birds (not replaced due to COVID-19 restrictions) may have also contributed.
• The region falls in the path of migratory birds, whose droppings can spread avian flu viruses, complicating disease identification.

Current Challenges:

• Lack of effective treatment: No curative treatment exists. Management relies on preventive vaccination, biosecurity measures, and good poultry housing practices.
• Diagnostic delays: Require reliable sampling and laboratory testing to confirm the cause.
• Climate sensitivity: Poultry are vulnerable to extreme cold, especially if housing and care are inadequate.
• Pandemic aftershocks: COVID-19 disruptions prevented the routine replacement of older birds, increasing vulnerability.

In News:

In a significant military development, Iran has successfully test-fired the Ghadr-380, an advanced anti-warship cruise missile with a range of 1,000 kilometers (600 miles).

This capability allows it to target U.S. Navy warships deployed in critical maritime regions like the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. The missile test was launched from an underground missile facility and was broadcast on Iranian state television, underscoring its strategic messaging.

Key Missiles Unveiled by Iran:

1. Ghadr-380 Cruise Missile:

• Type: Anti-warship cruise missile
• Range: Over 1,000 km
• Features:
  • Anti-jamming capability
  • Quick-launch readiness (operable by one person in less than 5 minutes)
• Launch Details:
  • Fired from an underground missile base in central Iran
  • Targeted the Sea of Oman
  • Specific test timing and warhead specifications were not disclosed

2. Etemad Ballistic Missile:

• Name Meaning: Etemad means "trust" in Persian
• Type: Precision-guided ballistic missile
• Range: 1,700 km (1,056 miles)
• Specifications:
  • Length: 16 meters
  • Diameter: 1.25 meters
  • Equipped with precision-guided warhead
• Built by: Iranian Ministry of Defence

Ballistic vs. Cruise Missiles: Understanding the Distinction

Feature                           Ballistic Missile                                                         Cruise Missile

Propulsion                Rocket-propelled at launch; unpowered descent             Jet engine-powered throughout flight

Flight Path              Arched trajectory (leaves and re-enters atmosphere)        Straight, low-altitude flight within atmosphere

Detection                 Easier to track via radar once launched                            Difficult to detect due to low-altitude flight

Launch Platforms   Ground-based, silo, mobile launchers                             Ground, air, or sea platforms

Warhead Capability   Can carry conventional or nuclear warheads              Usually conventional, but may carry nuclear in advanced forms

Iran’s Strategic Missile Doctrine

Underground Missile Facilities:

• Iran maintains extensive underground missile bases, especially in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz—a chokepoint for global oil trade.
• Such facilities enhance survivability and rapid response capabilities.

Missile Development Drivers:

• Iran's missile program evolved as a strategic deterrent post the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), where both countries used missiles to target civilian areas.
• UN arms embargoes led Iran to focus on domestic development of missile systems, including both cruise and ballistic types.

Capabilities:

• Iran now claims to possess missiles with ranges up to 2,000 kilometers, capable of reaching parts of the Middle East, including Israel.
• The Ghadr-380 and Etemad missiles are examples of technological diversification—from ballistic to precision cruise systems.

Implications for Regional and Global Security

• Deterrence Posture: Iran’s missile advancements strengthen its deterrence, especially amid strained relations with the U.S. and its allies.
• Threat to Maritime Security: The Ghadr-380, with its anti-warship focus, poses a direct threat to U.S. naval assets in the Persian Gulf and adjacent waters.
• Escalation Risks: Enhanced missile capabilities could escalate regional tensions, particularly in flashpoints like the Strait of Hormuz.
• Western Concerns: The U.S. and European nations remain wary of Iran’s dual-track approach involving missile and nuclear program developments.

In News:

For the first time, the Rusty-Spotted Cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus) has been spotted in the forests of Purulia district, West Bengal, captured on a camera trap set up by the NGO HEAL during pangolin poaching surveillance. This marks a significant range extension and has excited conservationists and forest officials.

Key Features

• World’s smallest and lightest wild cat: Weighs between 900 grams to 1.5 kg
• Length: Approx. 1.5 feet, with a 1-foot-long tail
• Appearance:
  • Fawn-grey coat with rusty red spots on back and flanks
  • Short, rounded head with two white facial streaks
  • Large eyes with greyish-brown to amber irises – an adaptation to nocturnal behavior
  • Short legs, black-soled feet, and an unmarked rusty tail
• Behavior:
  • Nocturnal and elusive
  • Uses scent marking to establish territory
  • Gestation period: 66–70 days

Habitat and Distribution

• Found in dry deciduous and semi-deciduous forests, including:
  • Northern & Central India, Western Ghats, Rajasthan, Kachchh, and Peninsular India
  • Also present in Sri Lanka and Nepal
• India hosts 80% of the global population

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Near Threatened, due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I species (highest protection)

Significance of Purulia Sighting

• Located on the eastern edge of the Chota Nagpur Plateau
• Forests are interconnected with neighboring regions like Jharkhand and Odisha
• Notified as reserved forests, not protected forests
• Threats: Hunting by local communities, habitat degradation

Impact of Conservation Efforts

• Post-COVID, the forest ecosystem in Purulia has improved due to reduced human disturbance
• Past sightings of leopards, bears, jackals, and foxes indicate a thriving ecosystem
• HEAL and the Forest Department have launched livestock compensation programs to reduce retaliatory killings of carnivores

In News:

The Government of India has added four new Ramsar sites, increasing the total to 89, the highest in Asia and third globally. The newly designated wetlands include:

• Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim)
• Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand)

This marks a significant milestone as Sikkim and Jharkhand have received their first Ramsar recognitions, while Tamil Nadu strengthens its lead with 20 Ramsar sites, the most among Indian states.

About the Ramsar Convention

• Adopted: 1971 in Ramsar, Iran
• Objective: Conservation and wise use of wetlands through local, national, and international cooperation.
• World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on 2nd February to promote awareness.

Key Highlights:

Therthangal Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Notified in 2010; covers 29.29 ha.
• Crucial breeding and foraging site for waterbirds like Spot-billed Pelican, Black-headed Ibis, and Oriental Darter.
• Aids groundwater recharge and climate regulation.
• Part of the Central Asian Flyway.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Notified in 2012; spans 230.49 ha.
• Located near Gulf of Mannar; significant stopover for migratory birds.
• Hosts endemic species and near-threatened fauna like Lion-tailed Macaque and Giant Squirrel.

Khecheopalri Wetland – Sikkim

• Sacred lake revered by Buddhists and Hindus; called Sho Dzo Sho locally.
• Known as a wish-fulfilling lake.
• Birds prevent leaves from settling on the surface.
• Rich in avifauna: fishing eagles, Brahminy kites.
• Integral to ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.

Udhwa Lake – Jharkhand

• Comprises Pataura Jheel (155 ha) and Brahma Jamalpur Jheel (410 ha).
• First Ramsar site of Jharkhand; near Ganga River.
• Declared a bird sanctuary in 1991; attracts migratory birds from September onwards.
  Falls under the Gangetic Plains biogeographic zone.

In News:

Report “Takers not makers: The unjust poverty and unearned wealth of colonialism” published by Oxfam.

Key Highlights:

• Released by: Oxfam International at the World Economic Forum 2025
• Core Focus: The report explores historical colonial wealth extraction, especially from India, and connects it to contemporary global inequalities.

Colonial Wealth Drain – India:

• $64.82 trillion extracted from India by Britain (1765–1900), adjusted to today’s value.
  • $33.8 trillion (52%) enriched the UK’s richest 10%
  • 32% benefited the British middle class
• India's industrial output dropped from 25% in 1750 to 2% in 1900 due to:
  • British protectionist policies (especially targeting Asian textiles)
  • High taxation, home charges, currency manipulation, and profit repatriation

Conceptual Framework:

• "Drain of Wealth" Theory by Dadabhai Naoroji forms the report’s foundation.
• Colonialism framed as both:
  • Historical phenomenon: Loot, repression, forced de-industrialization
  • Modern structure (Neo-colonialism): Corporate dominance, digital colonization, and unjust global governance

Neo-Colonial Parallels Today:

• Wages in Global South: 87–95% lower than for same work in Global North
• Multinational corporations:
  • Descendants of colonial entities like the East India Company
  • Extract resources & exploit labor under unequal terms of trade
• Global institutions like WTO and World Bank perpetuate inequity through imbalanced power dynamics

Ongoing Consequences in Global South:

• Poor public services, education, and healthcare
• Caste, religion, and language divisions institutionalized during colonial rule
  • E.g., Only 0.14% of Indian languages used as medium of instruction
• Bengal Famine (1943): Caused by wartime policies & racist attitudes, ~3 million deaths
• Biopiracy cases (e.g., neem) reflect continued exploitation

Wealth Disparity & Inequality:

• Billionaire wealth tripled in growth rate in 2024 (vs. 2023)
• Top 1% own more than 95% of global wealth
• Over 3.5 billion people survive on less than $6.85/day

In News:

Israel and Hamas have agreed on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal after 15 months of war.

Key Highlights:

Ceasefire Agreement Details:

• Location: The deal was brokered in Doha, Qatar.
• Approval Process: The deal must be approved by Israel’s Cabinet to take effect.
• Mediators: The agreement was negotiated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, with their involvement ensuring the implementation of the deal.

Phases of the Deal:

• First Phase (42 Days):
  • Release of 33 hostages by Hamas, including women, children, and elderly people.
  • Hostage Exchange: Hostages will be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
  • Gaza Ceasefire and Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from Central Gaza and move to the borders.
  • Return of Displaced Palestinians: Displaced Palestinians will be allowed to return to Northern Gaza.
  • Humanitarian Aid: 600 humanitarian aid trucks will be allowed into Gaza daily.
• Second Phase:
  • Hostage Release: Negotiations will begin for the release of remaining hostages.
  • Full Israeli Troop Withdrawal: Israel will fully withdraw its forces.
• Third Phase:
  • Reconstruction of Gaza: Overseen by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations.
  • Reopening of Border Crossings: For movement in and out of Gaza.
  • Return of Hostage Bodies: Return of any bodies of hostages who died.

Background of the Israel-Hamas Conflict:

• Start: On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, called Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, causing significant casualties.
• Israeli Response: Israel launched Operation Iron Sword in retaliation.
• Casualties: The conflict resulted in 46,707 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians, and 1,210 Israeli deaths.

About Gaza Strip:

• Location: A Palestinian enclave on the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Israel and Egypt.
• Administration: The Gaza Strip is governed by Hamas since 2006.
• Movement Restrictions: Israel controls air space and shoreline, imposing restrictions. Egypt controls one border and also restricts movement.

Gaza Truce Deal:

• Nature: A proposed ceasefire to end the ongoing conflict.
• Primary Parties: Israel and Hamas.
• Supporting Nations: United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
• Significance:
  • Aims to stop fighting and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
  • Potential to influence regional stability and Israeli politics.
  • Marks an important moment in U.S. diplomacy under the Biden administration.

In News:

India’s coastline has grown significantly over the past five decades, now extending 11,098 km in 2023-24, compared to 7,516 km in 1970. This marks an increase of 47.6% in just over five decades, attributed to a more precise methodology for measuring coastlines.

Key Factors Behind the Growth:

New Methodology for Measuring Coastlines:

• The old methodology used straight-line distances to measure the coastline, a method that didn't capture the complexity of India’s coastlines.
• The updated approach incorporates bays, estuaries, inlets, and other geomorphological features, offering a more accurate and detailed representation of the coastline.
• Advanced technologies like geospatial mapping have been used to ensure greater precision.

State-wise Recalculated Coastline Changes:

• Gujarat:
  • Old coastline (1970): 1,214 km
  • New coastline (2023-24): 2,340 km
  • Growth: The largest absolute increase in coastline, nearly doubling its size.
• West Bengal:
  • Old coastline: 157 km
  • New coastline: 721 km
  • Growth: A dramatic 357% increase, marking the highest percentage rise.
• Tamil Nadu:
  • Old coastline: 906 km
  • New coastline: 1,068 km
  • Growth: Revised length now exceeds Andhra Pradesh’s coastline, which was 1,053 km.
• Puducherry:
  • Old coastline: No major shift, but the updated data shows a contraction of 4.9 km (-10.4%), due to erosion and recalculations.
• Kerala:
  • Old coastline: Relatively small increase of 30 km (5%), the smallest among the states.