Daily Current Affairs for UPSC 8th Oct 2025

Index
S.No	Topic	Page No
Daily Hindu Analysis (YouTube)
1.	It’s time for Maoists to lay down arms
2.	Why Indian capital needs to invest domestically
3.	India takes a step closer to recognising Taliban ahead of Muttaqi’s visit
4.	Trio wins the Physics Nobel prize for building device that demonstrates ‘quantum tunnelling’
5.	Sri Lanka is a natural barrier protecting south-eastern coast from ocean fury: study
6.	Study finds trenches and fences are main causes of elephant injuries, deaths
7.	What is a supermoon?
Daily Current Affairs
8.	Online National Drugs Licensing System (ONDLS) Portal
9.	India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025
10.	Black Sea
11.	Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary

It’s time for Maoists to lay down arms

  Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 3: Internal Security → Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism, Role of Security Forces, Challenges to Internal Security
• GS Paper 2: Governance → Role of Civil Services in Conflict Management, Government Policies for Rehabilitation

Context: 

 Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicate Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) — commonly referred to as Maoism — by next year.

He ruled out further talks with Maoists unless they lay down their arms and join the mainstream through the Centre’s surrender and rehabilitation policy. The editorial argues that Maoism in India has reached a point of terminal decline, both ideologically and militarily, and now requires reintegration of cadres and socio-economic mainstreaming rather than continued armed struggle. 

  Background:

• The Communist Party of India (Maoist) was formed in 2004 after the merger of the People’s War Group (PWG) and the Maoist Communist Centre.
• It aimed to establish a “People’s Government” through armed revolution.
• The movement had its stronghold in the “Red Corridor” — spanning parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, and Maharashtra.
• However, over the past two decades, the Maoist movement has been shrinking in strength, influence, and geographical control.

Core Content Analysis

1. Decline of Maoist Influence

• In 2004, the Central Committee of the CPI (Maoist) had around 42 members, including intellectuals and youth.
• By 2025, this has shrunk to just 13 members; the Politburo reduced from 25 to 7–8.
• Aging leadership, internal rifts, loss of cadre morale, and reduced ideological coherence have weakened the movement.
• The “Liberated Zones” once claimed by Maoists, such as Dandakaranya (Chhattisgarh), have lost operational significance.

2. Security Forces’ Strategy and Success

• The formation of specialised counterinsurgency forces has been a turning point:
• Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) under the CRPF, trained in jungle warfare.
• District Reserve Guard (DRG) in Chhattisgarh, composed of surrendered Maoists and former Salwa Judum members.
• The DRG’s Operation Black Forest targeted Maoist headquarters in Kareggutta Hills and neutralised top leadership.
• Nearly 430 Maoists, including 45 women operatives, have been killed, and 1,450 have surrendered in the last decade.

3. Socio-Cultural and Political Context

• Unlike states such as West Bengal or Bihar, Maoism in Chhattisgarh did not emerge from classical peasant-land struggles but was imported from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
• Many tribal recruits joined due to songs, folklore, and cultural outreach, not ideology.
• However, over time, atrocities by Maoists and countergroups like Salwa Judum alienated local communities.
• Result: Loss of tribal trust and moral legitimacy.

4. The Crisis of Leadership

• The death of senior leader Nambala Keshava Rao (Basavaraju) has left a vacuum in leadership.
• The top leadership now comprises aging cadres disconnected from new recruits.
• The movement has failed to attract educated youth or urban intellectual support, which once provided ideological strength.

5. Government’s Rehabilitation Policy

• The Centre’s “Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Policy” provides:
• Financial incentives, vocational training, and housing for surrendered cadres.
• Employment opportunities and assistance in rejoining society.
• Many former Maoists have joined civil defence forces or local governance structures.

6. Broader Implications

• The decline of Maoism reflects success in a multi-pronged approach — combining security operations, development interventions, and community engagement.
• It highlights that sustained democratic governance, backed by civil society participation, is more effective than prolonged militarised responses.

UPSC Value Addition:

• Left Wing Extremism (LWE) now persists in less than 25 districts, compared to over 90 in 2010.
• Government’s SAMADHAN doctrine (Smart leadership, Aggressive strategy, Motivation, Actionable intelligence, Dashboard-based KPIs, Harnessing technology, Action plan, No access to funds) — holistic counter-LWE strategy.
• Aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

UPSC Mains: 

 “The decline of Left-Wing Extremism in India reflects the success of a balanced strategy combining security measures with development and rehabilitation. Critically analyze.”

Why Indian capital needs to invest domestically

 

  Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 3: Indian Economy — Investment Models, Inclusive Growth, Industrial Policy, Role of Private Sector
• GS Paper 2: Government Policies and Interventions for Development in Various Sectors

Context:

As the global economy faces heightened uncertainty — from tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions — India’s economic policymakers are calling upon domestic private capital to play a more active developmental role.

The article argues that Indian businesses must align their investment strategies with national economic priorities, rather than merely pursuing short-term profits, to sustain growth momentum and safeguard the economy from external shocks. 

  What the Article is About:

• Indian capital must reinvent itself to support domestic economic growth in the face of global volatility.
• There’s an urgent need for greater domestic investment, especially in research, innovation, and infrastructure, instead of dependence on foreign capital or export-led growth.
• The government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of growth — public–private alignment is essential to sustain India’s development trajectory.

Core Content Analysis

1. The Challenge Before Policymakers

• India must balance the long-term benefits of global trade with the short-term risks of global uncertainty.
• The global economy, driven by tariff wars, geopolitical conflicts, and inflation, has become volatile, threatening employment and demand in developing economies.
• The key policy dilemma: how to safeguard domestic growth while maintaining integration with global markets.

2. The Evolution of Indian Capital

• Historically, Indian businesses flourished in protected markets before liberalisation, benefitting from state patronage and subsidies.
• Post-1991 reforms opened the economy, leading to the emergence of global Indian enterprises, especially in IT, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.
• However, this global expansion has made Indian businesses more vulnerable to global downturns.
• There’s now a need to reorient capital inward — toward domestic sectors like infrastructure, innovation, and green technology.

3. The Importance of Domestic Capital Formation

• Domestic investment is crucial to:
• Maintain aggregate demand.
• Generate employment.
• Build resilience against global slowdowns.
• Private sector participation in nation-building ensures that growth benefits reach broader sections of society rather than being concentrated among shareholders.

4. Current Investment Trends

• India’s Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) rose from ₹70.2 lakh crore in FY15 to ₹120.8 lakh crore in FY23 — a compound annual growth rate of ~7%.
• Public capital expenditure on railways, roads, and highways has seen record highs.
• Private investment, however, has lagged — with corporate profits rising but investment sentiment weak due to global uncertainty and cautious business outlook.

5. The Role of Indian Private Sector

• Private firms have to complement the government’s infrastructure push by investing in sectors with high domestic multiplier effects.
• Many Indian conglomerates have accumulated profits from global operations but have not reinvested enough domestically.
• There is an urgent need to redirect these profits into domestic manufacturing, R&D, and employment-generating ventures.

6. R&D and Innovation: The Next Frontier

• India’s expenditure on Research & Development (R&D) remains low — about 0.7% of GDP, compared to 2–4% in advanced economies.
• About 56% of India’s R&D funding comes from the government; private sector share remains below 40%, unlike in OECD countries where private R&D dominates.
• Increasing private R&D spending in pharmaceuticals, information technology, and clean energy is essential for productivity and long-term competitiveness.

7. Policy Framework and the Government’s Role

• The government has been actively promoting an investment-friendly environment:
• Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes.
• National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP).
• PM Gati Shakti Mission for logistics integration.
• Budget 2024–25 focus on capex-led growth.
• However, policy support alone is insufficient unless private investors respond with risk-taking and developmental commitment.

8. The Broader Message: Aligning Profit with Public Purpose

• Indian capital must move beyond profit-maximisation and embrace nation-building as a strategic goal.
• Domestic reinvestment will strengthen economic self-reliance and reduce vulnerability to external shocks.
• The synergy between public infrastructure investment and private industrial innovation is the key to sustaining India’s growth story.

UPSC Mains: “In the context of global economic uncertainties, discuss why enhancing domestic investment by Indian capital is crucial for sustaining growth and employment. Suggest measures to align private profit motives with public development goals.”

India takes a step closer to recognising Taliban ahead of Muttaqi’s visit

• GS Paper 2:
• India and its Neighbourhood Relations
• Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings affecting India’s Interests
• International Organisations — UN, SCO, etc.
• India’s Foreign Policy and Global Diplomacy

Context: Two days before the visit of Amir Khan Muttaki, Acting Foreign Minister of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, the Indian government moved a step closer to de facto recognition of the Taliban.
For the first time, India acknowledged Muttaki’s participation as a “member” in a regional grouping — the Moscow Format Consultations, signalling a cautious shift in India’s policy approach towards Afghanistan under Taliban control. 

  Background:

• The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021 following the U.S. withdrawal and collapse of the previous Afghan government.
• Since then, no country — including India, the U.S., or major European nations — has granted formal recognition to the Taliban regime.
• However, regional powers like Russia, China, Iran, and Pakistan have maintained active engagement with Taliban officials through track-II dialogues and multilateral formats.
• India had previously taken a guarded stance, providing humanitarian aid but avoiding official recognition or diplomatic exchange.

What This Development Means:

• For the first time, the Taliban flag (white with black script) replaced the previous Afghan tricolour in an international meeting attended by India.
• India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, participated in the 10-nation Moscow Format Consultations chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
• The joint statement listed Amir Khan Muttaki as a member representing Afghanistan — marking a symbolic yet significant diplomatic shift.

Core Content Analysis 

  1. India’s Strategic Calculus

• India has long supported a democratic and inclusive Afghanistan free from terrorism and external influence.
• However, ground realities — especially the Taliban’s continued control and its engagement with China, Pakistan, and Russia — necessitate a pragmatic recalibration of India’s approach.
• Recognition, even informal, helps India protect its interests, maintain regional relevance, and counter Pakistan’s dominance in Afghan affairs.

2. Diplomatic Significance of Muttaki’s Visit

• Amir Khan Muttaki, despite being on the UN Security Council’s sanctions list, was granted special travel permission to visit India.
• He will be hosted with full protocol as a visiting Foreign Minister, including meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and possibly Prime Minister Modi.
• This marks the first official visit by a senior Taliban leader to India since 2021, reflecting a de facto engagement, if not full recognition.

3. Regional and Global Context

• Moscow Format includes Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Central Asian countries — all sharing concerns about terrorism, drug trade, and instability in Afghanistan.
• The grouping aims to promote regional stability, counter-terrorism cooperation, and humanitarian aid coordination.
• Russia and China have taken the lead in advocating recognition of the Taliban, whereas Western nations remain cautious due to human rights violations and exclusion of women in Afghanistan.

4. India’s Dilemma: Recognition vs. Engagement

• While recognition confers legitimacy to the Taliban, engagement without recognition allows India to:
• Safeguard strategic interests.
• Maintain people-to-people ties.
• Ensure humanitarian and developmental aid reaches Afghan citizens.
• India’s Delhi Regional Security Dialogue (2021) emphasised that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorism, echoing its consistent stance.

5. Strategic Implications for India

• Counterbalancing Pakistan: India’s presence in Afghanistan curtails Pakistan’s monopoly over Taliban diplomacy.
• Regional Connectivity: Engagement can revive discussions on Chabahar Port and International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), both critical for linking India to Central Asia.
• Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: India seeks Taliban assurance that anti-India terror groups (like LeT and JeM) will not find sanctuary in Afghan territory.
• Geopolitical Realignment: Participation in Moscow Format signals multi-alignment, aligning with Russia and Iran while keeping Western partners informed.

6. Challenges and Concerns

• Human Rights Violations: The Taliban continues to suppress women’s rights, restrict media, and target minorities.
• Terror Sanctuary Risks: Fear persists that Afghanistan may again become a breeding ground for jihadist networks.
• UN Recognition Issue: India cannot formally recognise the Taliban unless the UN alters its stance — the current Afghan seat still represents the previous republic.
• Domestic Criticism: Any overt recognition risks political backlash and ethical criticism over legitimising an authoritarian regime.

India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act

• India continues to provide humanitarian aid — food grains, vaccines, and medical supplies — through UN agencies.
• Maintains a technical team at the Indian Embassy in Kabul (since June 2022) to coordinate assistance.
• Engaging with the Taliban now serves realpolitik interests: to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a Pakistan-China strategic extension.

UPSC Prelims Q. Consider the following statements regarding India’s recent engagement with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan: 1. India participated in the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan where the Taliban was recognised as a “member” for the first time. 2. The Moscow Format is a regional grouping initiated by Russia to discuss security, humanitarian, and political issues related to Afghanistan. 3. India has formally recognised the Taliban government as the legitimate authority in Afghanistan. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 3:
• Developments in Science and Technology
• Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology
• Indigenisation of Technology and Emerging Technologies

Context: The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to John Clarke, Michel Devoret, and John Martinis for their pioneering work in building a device that demonstrates quantum tunnelling — a fundamental behaviour of particles at the quantum scale.
Their experiments have deepened our understanding of quantum mechanics and laid the foundation for superconducting qubits, quantum sensors, and precision measurement technologies, which are central to quantum computing and future electronics. 

  What is Quantum Tunnelling?

• Quantum tunnelling is a phenomenon in which particles can pass through physical barriers that they cannot overcome according to classical physics.
• It arises from the wave–particle duality of quantum mechanics — where particles like electrons can behave as waves.
• In simple terms, it’s as if a cricket ball could pass through a wall instead of bouncing back, defying classical expectations.
• Tunnelling occurs due to the probabilistic nature of quantum systems, meaning there’s a non-zero probability that a particle may appear on the other side of a potential barrier.

Core Content Analysis 

  1. The Discovery and Its Significance

• The laureates built an electrical circuit entirely governed by quantum mechanical laws, rather than classical electrical laws.
• They used Josephson junctions — thin insulating barriers between superconductors — to demonstrate tunnelling and energy quantisation in superconducting circuits.
• These circuits showed how coherent quantum states could exist in macroscopic electrical systems, enabling simulation and control of quantum behaviour in the lab.

2. The Role of Superconductors

• Superconductors are materials that can conduct electricity without resistance at very low temperatures.
• When two superconductors are separated by a thin insulator (forming a Josephson junction), electrons can tunnel through the barrier without any applied voltage.
• This tunnelling current depends on the phase difference of quantum wave functions between the superconductors — a key principle in quantum circuits.

3. The Device: Quantum Circuit Experiment

• The scientists created a circuit using two superconductors linked by a Josephson junction.
• They observed that when cooled near absolute zero, the circuit’s electrons behaved coherently as a single quantum particle.
• This behaviour demonstrated macroscopic quantum coherence — where quantum effects, normally visible only at subatomic scales, were observed in a visible-scale electrical system.
• The setup serves as a platform for quantum computers, where superconducting qubits can be created and controlled.

4. Broader Impact

• Their research underpins:
• Quantum computing: enabling the development of qubits and quantum logic circuits.
• Quantum sensors: ultra-sensitive measurement devices for magnetic fields and gravity.
• Precision timekeeping: improved atomic and optical clocks.
• This work bridges the gap between quantum mechanics and practical electronics, similar to how early transistor research revolutionised digital technology in the 20th century.

5. Comparison with Classical Physics

Aspect	Classical Physics	Quantum Physics
Nature of particles	Deterministic (fixed paths)	Probabilistic (wave functions)
Energy levels	Continuous	Quantised
Behaviour of current	Requires potential difference	Possible even without voltage (tunnelling)
Observed scale	Macroscopic (visible)	Subatomic (invisible)

6. Future Applications

• Quantum Computers: These devices will exponentially increase computational power for cryptography, drug design, and AI.
• Quantum Communication: Tunnelling principles will enhance security in data transmission.
• Advanced Sensors: For space missions, climate research, and defence technologies.
• Superconducting Technologies: Used in MRI machines, particle accelerators, and energy-efficient circuits.

Significance for India

• India has launched a National Quantum Mission (NQM) with ₹6,000 crore (2023–2031) to develop quantum communication, sensors, and computing infrastructure.
• Research in IISc, TIFR, IITs, and RRI Bengaluru focuses on superconducting qubits and quantum coherence — technologies influenced by this Nobel-winning discovery.

UPSC Prelims

Q. With reference to the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics, consider the following statements: 

 1. The award recognised experiments demonstrating quantum tunnelling using Josephson junctions in superconducting circuits. 

 2. The laureates’ findings form the basis for superconducting qubits used in quantum computers

. 3. Quantum tunnelling can occur even when the particle lacks enough classical energy to cross a barrier. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

 (a) 1 and 2 only

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

 Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Sri Lanka is a natural barrier protecting south-eastern coast from ocean fury: study 

  Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 1: Geography – Physical Geography (Oceans, Coastal Landforms, Geomorphological processes)
• GS Paper 3: Disaster Management, Climate Change and Environmental Vulnerability

Context: 

 A recent study by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad, highlights that Sri Lanka acts as a natural land barrier, shielding the southeastern coast of India — particularly Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh — from the destructive swell waves generated in the Southern Ocean.

These findings have significant implications for coastal hazard management, climate change adaptation, and understanding the natural protection mechanisms in the Indian Ocean region.

  What the Study is All About:

• Conducted by INCOIS scientists using real-time buoy data and high-resolution simulations (WAVEWATCH III model).
• It examined how long-period swell waves from the Southern Ocean travel thousands of kilometres and affect coastal regions differently.
• Found that while Kerala and southwest coasts suffer frequent flooding and erosion, the southeast coast remains largely unaffected — due to Sri Lanka’s landmass acting as a swell shield.

Core Content Analysis 

  1. What are Swell Waves?

• Swell waves are long-period surface waves generated by distant storms in open oceans.
• They travel vast distances with minimal energy loss and can cause coastal flooding and erosion when they reach shores.
• In India, the Southwest coast (Kerala) faces severe impact from these swells, often leading to property damage, displacement, and erosion.

2. Role of Sri Lanka as a Swell Shield

• The study simulated scenarios with and without the Sri Lankan Land Mass (SLLM) in the model.
• Results revealed that over 96% of swell events observed off Kollam on the west coast failed to reach Pondicherry on the east coast.
• When Sri Lanka was removed in simulations, the swells directly impacted the southeast coast, proving Sri Lanka’s vital geographical role as a natural barrier.

3. Geographic Mechanism

• Sri Lanka’s central highlands and landmass orientation block and deflect ocean energy from the southwest–southeast direction, preventing direct propagation into the Bay of Bengal.
• Thus, Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra coasts are naturally shielded, while Kerala and Lakshadweep remain exposed.

4. Broader Implications

• The findings underscore the importance of natural geographic features (islands, ridges, landmasses) in coastal hazard management.
• As sea-level rise and land submergence due to climate change occur, wave propagation paths could alter, exposing new regions to marine hazards.
• Highlights need for integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and early warning systems that account for geomorphological protections.

5. Policy and Environmental Significance

• The research aids in coastal infrastructure planning, disaster preparedness, and resilient coastal ecosystems.
• Reinforces the “blue economy and climate resilience” goals of India’s ocean policy.
• Can inform regional cooperation under frameworks like IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) and UN Ocean Decade initiatives.

UPSC Prelims 

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the role of Sri Lanka in relation to India’s coastal geography: 

 1. The Sri Lankan landmass acts as a natural barrier protecting India’s southeastern coast from long-period swell waves generated in the Southern Ocean.

 2. These swell waves primarily cause erosion and flooding along the southwestern coast of India, especially in Kerala.

 3. In the absence of the Sri Lankan landmass, these swells could directly impact Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh coasts. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

 (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 

 Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Study finds trenches and fences are main causes of elephant injuries, deaths 

  Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 3: Environment and Biodiversity → Conservation, Human–Wildlife Conflict, Environmental Impact

Context: A recent study by the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), published in Scientific Reports, reveals that trenches, solar fences, and electric fences, commonly used for preventing elephant intrusions into farmlands, have become leading causes of elephant injuries and deaths across Karnataka and Kerala. The findings highlight how poorly designed mitigation measures intended to prevent human–elephant conflict (HEC) often backfire, leading to unintended ecological harm and ethical dilemmas in conservation. 

  What the Study is All About:

• The study titled “Community mitigation decisions in elephant conflict zones of southern India depend on environmental and socio-economic drivers” analyzed 507 rural households across Karnataka and Kerala.
• Researchers examined how environmental, geographic, and socio-economic factors influence rural communities’ choices of conflict mitigation measures.
• It found that environmental factors such as rainfall, elevation, land size, and crop type shape both human mitigation behaviour and the outcomes for elephants.

Core Content Analysis 

  1. Key Findings

• Trenches caused the highest number of elephant injuries in Karnataka (12.8% of cases).
• Solar fences in Karnataka (25.5%) and electric fences in Kerala (38.3%) accounted for most elephant deaths among the 47 cases studied.
• These barriers, though meant to protect crops, are poorly designed or maintained, leading to elephants falling into trenches or being electrocuted.

2. Drivers Behind Mitigation Choices

• The study identified two main decision pathways influencing community choices:
• Dry areas with moderate landholdings: High probability (68%) of using solar fences, trenches, or alarm systems.
• Wet areas with large plots near water bodies: Low probability (7%) of using such measures, indicating environmental adaptation in mitigation choices.
• Rainfall (28%) was found to be the most significant predictor of mitigation behaviour, followed by elevation (16.8%), acreage owned (15.7%), and crop type (rubber, coconut, arecanut).

3. Broader Implications

• The study underscores that reactive approaches (like trenches and electric fences) can worsen the conflict instead of resolving it.
• Proactive strategies — restoring elephant corridors, eco-friendly barriers, and community participation — are more sustainable.
• Calls for a balance between human livelihoods and long-term elephant conservation in dynamic, shared landscapes.

Linked Government Schemes & Initiatives:

• Project Elephant (1992) – to ensure long-term survival of elephants in natural habitats.
• National Elephant Corridors Project – to maintain genetic connectivity.
• Gaj Yatra Campaign – to raise awareness on elephant conservation.
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – Schedule I protection for elephants.

UPSC Prelims Q. Consider the following statements regarding human–elephant conflict in India: 1. Trenches and electric fences are among the leading causes of elephant deaths and injuries in southern India. 2. Rainfall and elevation have been identified as environmental factors influencing human decisions on conflict mitigation. 3. The Centre for Wildlife Studies’ research suggests that proactive community participation can help reduce elephant mortality. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

What is a supermoon? 

  Syllabus Mapping:

• GS Paper 1: Geography – Earth’s Movements, Celestial Phenomena

Context: A supermoon occurs when a full moon or new moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to the Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as the perigee.
Because the moon’s orbit is slightly elliptical (not perfectly circular), its distance from the Earth varies by about 50,000 km each month. 

  What Happens During a Supermoon:

• When the moon is at perigee and directly opposite the Sun, the full moon appears about 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is at its farthest point (apogee).
• The term “Supermoon” was popularised by astrologer Richard Nolle in the 1970s and has since been used by astronomers and the media to describe this visually striking lunar event.
• The difference in size is subtle to the naked eye but noticeable when the moon is low on the horizon.

Effect on Tides – Perigean Spring Tides

• Supermoons influence tides due to enhanced gravitational pull.
• When the Sun, Earth, and Moon align (during new or full moon), their combined gravitational forces cause Spring Tides — higher high tides and lower low tides.
• When a supermoon coincides with a spring tide, it creates Perigean Spring Tides, which are even stronger.
• These tides can worsen coastal flooding if combined with storm surges.

Spring and Neap Tides:

• Spring Tides: Occur during full moon and new moon phases when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned — leading to maximum tidal range.
• Neap Tides: Occur during the first and third quarters of the moon, when the Sun and Moon form a right angle — leading to the least difference between high and low tides.

UPSC Prelims: Q. Consider the following statements regarding a Supermoon: 1. A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth (perigee).

 2. Supermoons cause unusually high tides known as perigean spring tides. 

 3. Neap tides occur when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned in a straight line. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

 (a) 1 only

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

 Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only

Online National Drugs Licensing System (ONDLS) Portal