Daily Current Affairs (CA ) for UPSC 12th Jan 2026

How will the U.S. exit affect climate action?

Context

The article examines the implications of the United States’ decision under President Donald Trump to withdraw from key global climate institutions, particularly the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) system and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and how this move affects climate diplomacy, finance, science, and global cooperation.

Detailed Analysis

1. What the U.S. exit from the UNFCCC framework means

Withdrawal from the UNFCCC effectively removes the U.S. from the core institutional framework governing global climate action.

This excludes the U.S. from formal participation in Conferences of the Parties (COPs), rule-making on transparency, carbon markets, and climate finance.

While the U.S. may attend COPs as an observer, it loses bargaining power and the ability to shape outcomes as a party.

2. Impact on the Paris Agreement and climate diplomacy

Since the Paris Agreement operates under the UNFCCC, exiting the Convention implies withdrawal from Paris-linked processes.

This weakens multilateral climate diplomacy, as the U.S. is historically one of the largest emitters and a key negotiator.

The move signals policy unpredictability, making long-term climate cooperation more fragile.

3. Consequences for climate finance

The UNFCCC’s financial architecture includes mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Global Environment Facility (GEF).

By exiting, the U.S. loses leverage over how climate finance rules evolve and reduces its accountability for contributions.

The absence of the U.S. raises doubts about mobilising large-scale finance, especially for adaptation, where global funding already falls far short of needs.

4. Effects on U.S. businesses and investors

Exit from global climate frameworks may raise uncertainty for U.S. companies operating internationally.

Investors, insurers, and exporters increasingly factor climate regulations into risk assessments.

Reduced U.S. engagement could increase risk premiums and expose firms to foreign climate-related trade measures.

5. Implications for the IPCC and climate science

The IPCC does not make policy but synthesises global climate science used by governments worldwide.

U.S. withdrawal may reduce American influence in shaping scientific assessments and weaken shared scientific reference points.

Although U.S. scientists can still contribute as reviewers or through non-governmental routes, institutional leadership and agenda-setting may narrow.

6. Global repercussions and equity concerns

Climate action is based on reciprocity and trust.

When a major historical emitter exits, it weakens expectations that others will uphold ambitious commitments.

Developing countries may find it harder to justify stronger action or higher financial contributions in the absence of U.S. leadership.

7. Timing and geopolitical significance

The exit comes at a time when climate finance discussions are shifting from earlier targets of $100 billion annually to much larger figures.

At COP29, countries agreed to a new collective goal of at least $300 billion per year by 2035.

U.S. disengagement undermines confidence in achieving these goals and complicates burden-sharing among remaining contributors.

Suggestions Highlighted in the Article

1. Strengthen multilateral institutions so that climate action does not depend excessively on one major power.

2. Encourage continued sub-national, private sector, and scientific engagement from the U.S. even if federal leadership steps back.

3.Build broader coalitions among other major emitters and developing countries to sustain momentum on mitigation and adaptation.

4.Reinforce the credibility of climate finance commitments to maintain trust among vulnerable countries.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Discuss the implications of the United States’ withdrawal from the UNFCCC framework on global climate governance, climate finance, and equity between developed and developing countries.

The year gone by, the Quad’s year of interregnum

Context

The author analyses how 2025 turned into a period of strategic pause for the Quad, shaped by global geopolitical churn, leadership transitions in member states, and the absence of a leader-level summit, even as the grouping continued to function operationally.

Detailed Analysis

Global geopolitical backdrop

The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency in 2025 triggered shifts in global geopolitics.

The Indo-Pacific emerged as the most contested strategic theatre, driven by intensifying U.S.–China rivalry.

In this context, the Quad remained central to U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific.

Evolution and purpose of the Quad

The Quad comprises India, Australia, Japan, and the United States.

Its core objective is to anchor and sustain a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.

The idea of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific remains the guiding principle.

Trump administration and Quad priorities

Since its revival in 2017, the Quad gained momentum, with Trump being one of the architects of that revival.

Despite early doubts due to the “America First” approach, Foreign Minister–level engagements indicated continuity.

However, the inability to convene a leader-level summit in 2025 marked a visible slowdown.

The idea of interregnum

The year 2025 is described as an interregnum, a phase of uncertainty rather than decline.

Similar pauses had occurred earlier, notably after the Quad’s formation in 2004 when momentum faded due to domestic recalculations of member states.

The group regained traction in 2017, suggesting resilience rather than fragility.

Institutional limitations of the Quad

The Quad lacks a formal institutional structure or secretariat.

As a result, leader-level summits are crucial for political momentum, vision-setting, and launching initiatives.

Leadership changes in two member countries further complicated summit-level continuity.

Operational resilience despite challenges

Even without a leader-level summit, Quad initiatives continued.

Examples include:

Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission, operationalised in June 2025.

Expansion of coast guard cooperation.

Ports of the Future Partnership, showcased during meetings in India.

The Malabar naval exercise held in Guam, enhancing interoperability among navies.

Strategic signalling and continuity

Hosting of the sixth leader-level summit in 2024 by the U.S. underscored earlier commitment.

Statements by U.S. officials reaffirmed that Quad diplomacy would continue, with a leader-level summit expected in early 2026.

The Quad’s ability to function amid turbulence highlights its strategic resilience.

Suggestions by the Author

The Quad must prioritise an early leader-level summit to restore political momentum.

Continued emphasis on practical cooperation is necessary, but it must be complemented by strategic vision from the top.

Regular summits are vital in the absence of institutional anchoring to sustain convergence among members.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

The Quad lacks formal institutional structures yet continues to shape the Indo-Pacific strategic order. Critically examine how leadership-level engagement influences the effectiveness and resilience of the Quad. (250 words)

India’s maritime policy: how it has evolved and what lies ahead

Context

The author reviews India’s evolving maritime policy through the lens of history, geography, and strategy, drawing on insights from The Routledge Handbook of Maritime India. The article discusses how India’s maritime thinking has shifted from historical experience to contemporary strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Detailed Analysis

Geographical and historical foundations

India’s strategic geography is shaped by the Himalayas and the Indian Ocean, with the latter playing a decisive role in trade, culture, and security.

Historically, Indian maritime engagement enabled trade, cultural exchange, and limited conquest across the Indian Ocean.

Thinkers like Jawaharlal Nehru emphasised that control over the Indian Ocean determines India’s strategic autonomy.

Maritime history and intellectual traditions

The handbook traces India’s maritime outreach through the Cholas, Marathas, Europeans, and Indo-Arab trade networks.

K.M. Panikkar’s maritime ideas remain relevant, stressing the centrality of sea power to India’s security.

Varun Sahni argues that the Indian Ocean should be seen not merely as a transit space but as a habitat for a major share of humanity.

Evolution of India’s maritime strategy

India’s maritime policy has expanded to include engagement with Australia, Japan, France, ASEAN states, and Indian Ocean littorals.

India successfully demarcated maritime boundaries with most neighbours, except Pakistan.

Engagement with China highlights the need to manage rivalry and prevent conflict at sea through agreed rules and dialogue.

Regional maritime governance challenges

Comparative studies show contrasting approaches of India and China to maritime security governance.

Weak governance, political instability, and corruption in some South Asian states have increased vulnerability to external influence, including China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

These factors undermine sound maritime governance in the Indian Ocean region.

Power projection and naval role

India has strengthened maritime power projection, notably through naval operations against piracy in the Arabian Sea.

The Indian Navy has transitioned from an observer role to a net security provider in the region.

Maritime power is now integral to India’s broader strategic posture.

Indo-Pacific debates and future directions

India’s Indo-Pacific vision emphasises inclusivity and multilateralism, with partnerships involving France and Japan.

Recent global crises and shifts in U.S. strategy have diluted singular focus on the Indo-Pacific, raising questions for India’s long-term alignment.

Emerging areas such as underwater domain awareness, Blue Economy, climate resilience, and coastal security are reshaping maritime priorities.

Suggestions by the Author

India should refine its Indo-Pacific strategy in light of changing global geopolitics and evolving U.S. approaches to China.

Greater focus is needed on maritime governance, regional capacity-building, and institutional connectivity.

Policymakers must integrate economic, technological, and security dimensions into a coherent maritime framework.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

India’s maritime policy reflects a shift from historical engagement to strategic power projection in the Indo-Pacific. Examine the drivers of this evolution and assess the challenges India faces in sustaining its maritime leadership. (250 words)

Bhairav Battalions to debut in Army Day parade in Jaipur on January 15

Context

The Indian Army’s newly raised Bhairav Battalions will make their first public appearance during the Army Day parade in Jaipur, highlighting the Army’s shift towards modern, technology-driven warfare units.

Key Points

What are Bhairav Battalions

Bhairav Battalions are newly raised modern warfare units of the Indian Army.

They are designed as high-speed, offensive formations capable of rapid deployment.

Role and operational focus

These units are trained to conduct Special Forces-type tasks across multiple operational levels.

They are capable of targeting enemy bases and formations inside hostile territory.

The battalions are meant to bridge the gap between Para Special Forces and regular infantry units.

Technological orientation

Bhairav Battalions emphasise unmanned warfare, including extensive use of drones.

The Army has created a pool of over one lakh drone operators, which these units can utilise.

Focus is on real-time intelligence, surveillance, and precision strikes.

Organisational expansion

The Army has already raised 15 Bhairav Battalions across different formations.

There are plans to raise around 25 such battalions in the near future.

These units are part of a broader force restructuring aligned with emerging technologies.

Part of wider Army transformation

Bhairav Battalions complement Rudra Brigades, which are integrated all-arms formations.

The Army is upgrading artillery, mechanised infantry, and armoured corps with drones and modern battlefield systems.

The aim is to enhance operational effectiveness in hybrid and high-intensity conflicts.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q.The Bhairav Battalions of the Indian Army are best described as:

a) Conventional infantry units raised for border guarding duties
b) High-speed offensive units designed for modern and unmanned warfare
c) Naval special forces units for coastal security
d) Territorial Army units for internal security

Correct Answer: b)

Explanation:
Bhairav Battalions are newly raised high-speed offensive units of the Indian Army, designed for modern warfare with a strong focus on drones, unmanned systems, and Special Forces-type operations, rather than conventional infantry or internal security roles.

Countdown to launch of PSLV-C62 mission begins

Context

ISRO has commenced the final countdown for the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission, scheduled for launch from Sriharikota, marking another key step in India’s earth observation and commercial launch capabilities.

Key Points

Mission overview

PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission is scheduled to lift off at 10:17 a.m. from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

It will be the 105th launch from Sriharikota and the 64th flight of PSLV.

This is the fifth mission of the PSLV-DL variant.

Primary payload: EOS-N1

EOS-N1 is an earth observation satellite.

It is built for strategic and civilian applications, including imaging and monitoring.

The satellite will be injected into a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO).

Co-passenger satellites

The mission carries 15 co-passenger satellites.

These satellites have been developed by Indian start-ups, academic institutions, and overseas customers.

The payload mix highlights India’s growing role in commercial and collaborative space launches.

Innovative mission features

After satellite injection, the PS4 stage will be restarted to de-boost and enter a re-entry trajectory.

The KID capsule will also be separated and guided into a re-entry path.

Both PS4 and KID capsule are expected to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere over the South Pacific Ocean.

Commercial dimension

The mission is a commercial launch by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

It underlines ISRO’s focus on revenue generation and private-sector participation in space activities.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

ISRO is India’s national space agency responsible for satellite launches, space science, and applications.

It operates launch vehicles like PSLV and GSLV and manages launch facilities at Sriharikota.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission is associated with which of the following?

a) Launch of a navigation satellite into geostationary orbit
b) Earth observation satellite placed in Sun-Synchronous Orbit
c) Human spaceflight test mission under Gaganyaan
d) Exclusive military satellite launch using GSLV Mk III

Correct Answer: b)

Explanation:
The PSLV-C62 mission carries EOS-N1, an earth observation satellite, which is planned to be injected into a Sun-Synchronous Orbit, along with multiple co-passenger satellites.

Telangana orders halt on cough syrup laced with ethylene glycol

Context

The Telangana Drug Control Administration (DCA) issued a stop-use notice after a children’s cough syrup sample tested positive for ethylene glycol, a toxic substance, during testing by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

Key Points

Detection and regulatory action

A sample of Almont-Kid Syrup, prescribed for children’s allergy symptoms, tested positive for ethylene glycol (EG).

The test was conducted by CDSCO, East Zone, Kolkata, triggering a state-level alert.

Telangana DCA ordered an immediate halt on sale, distribution, and use of the identified batch.

Health risks involved

Ethylene glycol is a toxic industrial chemical used in antifreeze and solvents.

Ingestion can cause acute kidney failure, metabolic acidosis, and death, especially dangerous for children.

Past global and Indian incidents link EG-contaminated syrups to child fatalities.

Enforcement measures by the State

All drug inspectors and assistant directors were directed to freeze existing stocks across retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and hospitals.

The DCA initiated strict enforcement and active monitoring to prevent further public health risk.

The public was advised to stop using the syrup immediately and report possession to the nearest Drugs Control Authority.

Manufacturer and batch details

The affected batch AL-24002, manufactured in January 2025, was flagged.

The product was manufactured by Triduss Remedies, based in Vaishali, Bihar.

Public advisory and reporting

Citizens were urged to report the syrup to authorities without delay.

A DCA toll-free helpline (1800-599-6969) was shared for complaints and information during working hours.

Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)

CDSCO is India’s National Regulatory Authority for drugs and medical devices.

It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, headed by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

Responsibilities include approval of new drugs, quality control of imports, clinical trial oversight, and coordination with State Drug Control Authorities.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Ethylene glycol, sometimes found as a contaminant in medicines, is dangerous because:

1.It is a toxic industrial chemical that can cause kidney failure if ingested.

2.It is approved for use as an excipient in paediatric cough syrups under Indian drug laws.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
Ethylene glycol is a toxic industrial chemical and ingestion can lead to severe kidney damage and death. It is not approved for use in medicines or excipients, especially paediatric formulations.

Source: The Hindu

Shifting from Russian oil imports will currently not hurt India financially

Context

An analysis of India’s crude oil import data suggests that shifting some imports away from Russian oil at present will not significantly strain India’s finances.

This is mainly due to low global oil prices and a sharp reduction in the discount on Russian crude.

Key Points

Global Oil Price Scenario

Global crude oil prices are currently low, around $60 per barrel.

Low prices reduce the overall import bill and cushion India against source diversification.

Under such conditions, price differences between suppliers have a limited fiscal impact.

India’s Crude Oil Import Data (November 2025)

Average price of Russian crude imports: $482.7 per tonne.

Average price of U.S. crude imports: $523.3 per tonne.

Overall average price of India’s crude imports: $498.8 per tonne.

Declining Discount on Russian Crude

In November 2022:

India received a discount of $40.3 per tonne on Russian crude.

By November 2025:

The discount narrowed sharply to $16.1 per tonne.

This shows that Russia’s price advantage has reduced considerably over time.

Premium on U.S. Crude Oil

India currently pays a premium of about $24.6 per tonne on U.S. crude.

Reasons for higher cost:

U.S. crude is lighter.

It has lower sulphur content.

It yields better-quality refined products.

Quality differences partly justify the higher price.

Limited Financial Impact for India

With global prices remaining low:

Reducing imports from Russia will not cause immediate fiscal stress.

Experts note:

The earlier heavy dependence on Russian discounts is less critical today.

India’s diversified import basket provides flexibility.

Risks in the Medium to Long Term

If crude oil prices rise to $80–90 per barrel:

Loss of Russian discounts could begin to hurt India financially.

Other factors that could offset gains:

Depreciation of the rupee.

Rising logistics and transportation costs.

Prolonged global trade and geopolitical tensions.

Strategic vs Economic Considerations

Strategic concerns about sourcing oil differ from economic costs.

Economically:

The current scenario supports diversification without major losses.

Strategically:

Overdependence on a single supplier remains a long-term risk.

Overall Assessment

Low global oil prices are the main buffer for India.

Shrinking Russian discounts have reduced the cost advantage.

Shifting oil imports is manageable in the short term but requires caution if prices rise.

Aditya-L1 decoded how solar storms impact earth’s magnetic field: ISRO

Context

ISRO reported that observations from the Aditya-L1 solar mission helped decode how intense solar storms compress Earth’s magnetic field, following analysis of a major space-weather event that struck Earth in October 2024.

Key Points

What ISRO found

Aditya-L1 data revealed that severe solar storms can strongly compress Earth’s magnetosphere.

During the October 2024 event, the magnetic field was pushed unusually close to Earth.

Some geostationary satellites were briefly exposed to harsh space conditions.

Role of solar storms

Solar storms are caused by massive eruptions of solar plasma from the Sun.

These eruptions disturb Earth’s magnetic shield, leading to space-weather events.

The most severe effects occur during the turbulent phase of the storm.

Space weather and its impacts

Space weather affects satellites, communication systems, navigation services, and power grids.

Enhanced currents were observed in the auroral regions at high latitudes.

These currents can heat the upper atmosphere, increasing atmospheric escape.

Scientific significance

The study combined Aditya-L1 observations with international space mission data.

Findings were published in The Astrophysical Journal in December.

The results improve understanding of Sun–Earth interactions during extreme events.

Why this matters for India

Helps protect satellite infrastructure critical for communication and navigation.

Strengthens India’s capacity for space-weather forecasting and risk mitigation.

Positions India among global leaders in advanced solar and heliophysics research.

Aditya-L1 Mission

Aditya-L1 is India’s first solar observatory mission.

It studies the Sun from the Lagrange Point-1 (L1), allowing continuous solar observation.

The mission focuses on solar atmosphere, solar wind, and space-weather dynamics.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. With reference to solar storms and Earth’s magnetic field, consider the following statements:

1.Intense solar storms can compress Earth’s magnetosphere and affect geostationary satellites.

2.Space-weather effects are limited only to polar regions and do not impact communication or power systems.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
Severe solar storms can compress Earth’s magnetic field and expose satellites to harsh conditions. Space weather can disrupt communication, navigation, and power grids, so its effects are not limited only to polar regions.

Centre to seek source code of smartphones in ‘security measure’

Context

The Union government is considering legally mandating new smartphone security requirements, including access to source code, under updated telecom security norms to strengthen cyber security and prevent malware-related threats.

Key Points

Background of the proposal

The move is part of the Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR) framework.

It aims to enhance national cyber security amid rising concerns over spyware, malware, and data breaches.

Major global smartphone manufacturers have raised objections to these provisions.

Source code disclosure

Manufacturers may be required to provide access to source code for vulnerability analysis.

Source code refers to the core programming instructions that determine device functioning.

Companies argue this could expose intellectual property and trade secrets.

Vulnerability analysis standards

The standards allow automatic and periodic malware scanning on smartphones.

Security testing may be conducted in designated Indian laboratories.

Firms fear exposure of confidential technical information during analysis.

Key security conditions proposed

Background permission restrictions: Apps cannot access camera, microphone, or location when inactive.

One-year log retention: Devices must store security audit logs for at least 12 months.

Government notification: Companies must inform authorities before releasing major software or security updates.

Industry concerns

Technology companies argue that the proposal lacks global precedent.

They warn it may discourage innovation and investment in the Indian market.

Concerns also include potential misuse of sensitive data and compliance burden.

Government’s position

The Centre views the measures as necessary to protect national security and user data.

Consultations are ongoing between the IT Ministry and technology firms to address concerns.

Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR)

A framework that lays down security standards for telecom and digital devices sold in India.

Intended to prevent supply-chain vulnerabilities, malware attacks, and unauthorised surveillance.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question
With reference to the proposed smartphone security measures in India, consider the following statements:

1.The government may require smartphone manufacturers to provide access to source code for security testing.

2.The proposed norms mandate that smartphone security logs be retained for at least one year.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

Explanation:
The proposal includes access to source code for vulnerability analysis and requires storage of security audit logs for a minimum of one year.

Govt. launches drive to reduce road accident deaths

Context

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, in collaboration with the NGO Save Life Foundation, has identified 100 high-risk districts to launch a focused drive aimed at reducing road accident deaths by 50% by 2030.

Key Points

Identification of high-risk districts

100 districts identified based on the highest number of road crash fatalities.

These districts span 15 States, with the largest numbers in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.

Together, these districts account for a disproportionately high share of road deaths.

Rationale for district-level focus

63% of road accident deaths occur outside National Highways.

Crashes are influenced by local factors such as road design, traffic enforcement, and hospital preparedness.

Districts are treated as key units of change for targeted interventions.

Key causes of road fatalities

Rear-end collisions – 26%

Collisions at intersections – 23%

Pedestrian crashes – 23%

Remaining fatalities arise from other crash types and risky behaviours.

Strategy and interventions

Engineering solutions: redesign of black spots, safer intersections, traffic calming.

Enforcement: stricter policing and compliance with traffic rules.

Emergency response: improved trauma care, faster ambulance services, trained first responders.

Data-driven planning: identification of crash locations and time windows for targeted action.

Governance and coordination

District Collectors to lead implementation at the local level.

Active involvement of Transport Ministers, MPs, and district committees.

Best practices and progress to be reviewed through national-level coordination.

Save Life Foundation

A non-governmental organisation working on road safety and injury prevention.

Collaborates with governments on data-driven road safety reforms and zero-fatality programmes.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question
Q. With reference to the recent initiative to reduce road accident deaths in India, consider the following statements:

1.The programme focuses on district-level interventions rather than only National Highways.

2.Most road accident fatalities in India occur on National Highways.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
The initiative targets districts as key units because a majority of road deaths occur outside National Highways. Hence, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is incorrect.

Source: The Hindu

Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD)

Syllabus: GS 2 – Governance, Polity, and Social Justice

Context:
The Union Home Minister recently chaired the 9th Apex-Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) to review and strengthen India’s coordinated response against the drug menace.

Key Points:

Establishment and Objective:
The Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) was established in 2016 to ensure better coordination between States, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and other stakeholders in tackling drug trafficking and abuse in a holistic manner.

Four-tier Structure:
In 2019, NCORD was strengthened through a four-tier mechanism to improve operational efficiency and inter-agency coordination.

Organisational Structure:
Apex Level Committee headed by the Union Home Secretary.
Executive Level Committee headed by the Special Secretary, Ministry of

Home Affairs.
State Level Committees headed by Chief Secretaries.
District Level Committees headed by District Magistrates.

Supporting Initiatives:
The NCORD portal enables effective information sharing among institutions and agencies.
The MANAS helpline (1933) provides a toll-free platform for reporting and seeking assistance related to drug abuse and trafficking.

UPSC Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD):

1. NCORD was established to improve coordination between States and the Ministry of Home Affairs to combat the drug menace.

2. The Apex Level NCORD Committee is chaired by the Union Home Minister.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct as NCORD was created to enhance coordination in addressing drug-related challenges.
Statement 2 is incorrect because the Apex Level NCORD Committee is chaired by the Union Home Secretary, not the Union Home Minister.

Source: PIB

Kathputli

Syllabus: GS 1 – Art and Culture

Context:
Nearly 250 families in Jaipur continue to preserve Kathputli, one of Rajasthan’s oldest folk art traditions, highlighting concerns about the survival of traditional performing arts amid rapid urbanisation.

Key Points:

What it is:
Kathputli is a traditional string puppet theatre of Rajasthan and among the oldest folk art forms of the State.

Origin of name:
Derived from kath (wood) and putli (doll), indicating wooden puppets crafted for storytelling.

Material and structure:
Puppets are made of wood, cloth, cotton, thread, and metal wire; they have no legs and wear long flowing skirts.

Performance technique:
Puppeteers control each puppet using two to five strings tied to their fingers, enabling expressive movements.

Artistic features:
Puppets have large eyes, oval faces, arched eyebrows, and exaggerated expressions, enhancing visual drama.

Themes and narratives:
Stories revolve around Rajput kings, warriors, folk heroes, legends, and moral tales, drawn from folklore and daily life.

Music and presentation:
Performances are accompanied by folk music using dholak and harmonium, blending humour, satire, and narration.

Cultural significance:
Kathputli served as a mobile medium of education and entertainment, spreading history and social values in villages.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question:

Consider the following statements about Kathputli:

1. Kathputli is a traditional string puppet theatre originating in Rajasthan.

2. Kathputli puppets are typically made with movable legs to enhance dance movements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Kathputli is a string puppet tradition from Rajasthan.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Kathputli puppets do not have legs and are covered with long skirts.

Source: The Hindu

Creator’s Corner Platform

Syllabus: GS 2 – Governance, Media and Public Policy

Context:
Prasar Bharati has launched Creator’s Corner on DD News to provide a national platform for digital creators, aiming to promote quality Indian content and strengthen the digital economy through public broadcasting.

Key Points:

Launch and Platform:
The Creator’s Corner platform has been launched by Prasar Bharati.
It is a dedicated slot on DD News to showcase content created by digital creators from across India.

Aim and Vision:
The initiative aims to promote the digital economy by encouraging the creation of quality content.
It seeks to expand outreach through collaboration between public broadcasting and independent content creators.

Content Coverage:
The platform will feature content on News and Current Affairs, Culture, Travel, Cuisine, Art and Literature, Music and Dance, Health, Education, Science and Technology, Environment, Sustainable Development, and Entertainment.

Broadcast Schedule:
The programme will be telecast from Monday to Friday on DD News, ensuring regular visibility for creators.

Revenue-Sharing Model:
The initiative follows a 90:10 revenue-sharing model, where 90% of the revenue goes to content creators.

Prasar Bharati retains 10%, making it a creator-friendly public broadcasting model.

Significance:
It provides digital creators with a credible national platform and access to the wide reach of DD News.
The initiative strengthens public broadcasting while supporting India’s growing creator economy.

Prasar Bharati:
Prasar Bharati is the Public Service Broadcaster of India, established in 1997 under the Prasar Bharati Act.
It comprises Doordarshan and All India Radio and is headquartered in New Delhi.

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Creator’s Corner Platform:

1. Creator’s Corner is a digital content initiative launched by Prasar Bharati and telecast on DD News.

2. The platform operates on a revenue-sharing model where the majority share is retained by Prasar Bharati.

3. The initiative aims to integrate independent digital creators with public service broadcasting.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Creator’s Corner is launched by Prasar Bharati and aired on DD News.
Statement 2 is incorrect: 90% of the revenue goes to creators, while Prasar Bharati retains only 10%.
Statement 3 is correct: The initiative integrates digital creators with public broadcasting to promote quality content and the digital economy.

Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Environment and Ecology (Biodiversity, Conservation)

Context:
The Kerala government has officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the State. The move recognises the area’s exceptional butterfly diversity and ecological significance.

Key Points:

Location and Extent
Located in Kerala, the sanctuary shares boundaries with Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka), Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary, and the North Wayanad forest division.

River System
The Cheenkanni River, originating from the Brahmagiri ranges, flows through the sanctuary, enhancing habitat diversity.

Butterfly Diversity
It hosts over 266 butterfly species, accounting for more than 80% of Kerala’s butterfly diversity, including endemic and endangered species.

Special Ecological Features
The area is known for large-scale butterfly migration and is a habitat of the Schedule I Slender Loris.

Other Fauna
Besides butterflies, the sanctuary supports elephants, giant squirrels, leopards, and a wide range of bird species.

Q.Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is located in which State?

(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Karnataka
(c) Kerala
(d) Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (c) Kerala

Explanation:

Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is located in Kerala. The Kerala government renamed the earlier Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the State.

Sports Authority of India (SAI)

Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Polity and Governance

Context:
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has organised a four-day Sports Sciences Workshop for combat sports coaches at its Sports Science Division in New Delhi, highlighting its focus on scientific training and athlete support.

Key Points:

Institutional Nature
SAI is a registered society fully funded by the Government of India.
It functions as the apex national sports body of the country.

Nodal Ministry and Establishment
It was established in 1984 under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
It was created to carry forward the legacy of the IX Asian Games, 1982 held in New Delhi.

Objectives
Entrusted with promoting sports and achieving sporting excellence at national and international levels.
Focuses on systematic athlete development and performance enhancement.

Core Functions
Engages in talent scouting, training, and scientific support.
Provides coaching, infrastructure, equipment, sports kits, and competitive exposure.

Sports Promotional Schemes Implemented
National Centres of Excellence (NCOE).
SAI Training Centres (STC) and Extension Centres.
National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC).

Infrastructure Responsibility
SAI maintains major sports infrastructure in Delhi on behalf of the Ministry.
These include Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex, and Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range.

Significance
SAI has played a crucial role in developing elite athletes and nurturing grassroots talent.
It integrates sports science, coaching, and infrastructure for long-term sports development.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Sports Authority of India (SAI):

1. The Sports Authority of India is a statutory body established under an Act of Parliament.

2. SAI functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect because SAI is a registered society, not a statutory body.
Statement 2 is correct as SAI functions under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Source: PIB