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Type: Prelims Only

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Bangladesh

    India to alter Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with Bangladesh

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Why in the News?

    India is preparing to reassess and renegotiate the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with Bangladesh, which is set to expire in 2026, completing its 30-year term.

    About the Ganga Water Agreement (1996):

    • Signing: It was signed on December 12, 1996, by PM H. D. Deve Gowda (India) and PM Sheikh Hasina (Bangladesh) to share the Ganga’s dry season flow.
    • Purpose: It aimed to ensure water availability for irrigation, ecology, and navigation in both countries, especially at the Farakka Barrage, which diverts water to sustain the Kolkata Port.
    • Duration: It replaced earlier short-term deals and set a 30-year framework (1996–2026), with a renewal clause by mutual consent.

    Key Terms of the Agreement:

    • Lean Season Period: The treaty applies from January 1 to May 31, with water sharing calculated in 10-day intervals.
    • Sharing Formula at Farakka:
      • ≤ 70,000 cusecs: 50% each
      • 70,000–75,000 cusecs: India gets the remainder after Bangladesh gets 35,000
      • ≥ 75,000 cusecs: India gets 40,000; Bangladesh gets the balance
    • Alternate Sharing: From March 11 to May 10, both countries receive 35,000 cusecs alternately every three 10-day blocks.
    • No Minimum Guarantee: If flow falls below 50,000 cusecs, Article II allows for consultations and emergency adjustments.
    • Monitoring Mechanism: The Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) ensures implementation and dispute resolution.
    • Project Provisions: Both countries may construct water projects for irrigation and navigation.

    Why must India reconsider it?  

    • Treaty Expiry: The treaty ends in 2026, and India wants a revised pact to reflect current demands.
    • Rising Needs: India seeks an additional 30,000–35,000 cusecs due to:
      • Increased irrigation in West Bengal and other states
      • Siltation issues at Kolkata Port
      • Urban and industrial growth
    • Flexibility Concerns: Officials argue the treaty lacks provisions for climate variability and seasonal shortages.
    • State Support: West Bengal supports changes, citing inadequate current allocations.
    • Proposed Change: India may pursue a shorter, more flexible treaty, like its move on the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.

    Implications for Bangladesh:

    • Downstream Vulnerability: Bangladesh faces greater risk from reduced water flow.
    • Historical Shortfalls: Between 1997 and 2016, Bangladesh received less than its share 65% of the time.
    • Potential Consequences:
      • Increased salinity in rivers and farmland
      • Reduced water for fisheries, irrigation, and drinking
      • Navigation issues in the delta
    • Political Sensitivity: Many in Bangladesh already view the treaty as unfair, and further reduction may trigger domestic backlash.
    • Diplomatic Impact: A poorly negotiated outcome could strain India-Bangladesh ties, especially in water diplomacy and cross-border trust.
    [UPSC 2009] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Baglihar Power Project had been constructed within the parameters of the Indus Water Treaty.

    2. The project was completely built by the Union Government with loans from Japan and the World Bank. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

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  • Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

    ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ Words in Preamble

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    A far-right leader has called for a public debate on the terms “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, arguing they were added undemocratically during the Emergency via the 42nd Amendment and now require re-evaluation.

    About the Preamble:

    • Overview: It is the introductory statement to the Constitution of India. It sets out the philosophy, vision, and objectives of the Constitution.
    • Origin: It is based on the Objectives Resolution introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946, and adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
    • Declaration made: It declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and seeks to secure to all citizens:
      Justice (social, economic, political), Liberty (of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship), Equality (of status and opportunity), and Fraternity (assuring dignity and national unity).
    • Significance: It serves as a guiding light for interpreting the Constitution. N.A. Palkhivala called it the “Identity Card of the Constitution”, while K.M. Munshi described it as the “Political Horoscope” of India.
    • Key symbolism associated:
      1. Source of Authority – We, the People of India emphasizes that power originates from the people.
      2. Nature of Indian State – India is described as Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic.

    Preamble

    Amendments to the Preamble:

    • Can the Preamble be amended: Yes, the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) held that the Preamble is part of the Constitution and can be amended, provided the Basic Structure Doctrine is not violated.
    • The Preamble has been amended only once in the history of the Constitution.
    • 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976:
      • Passed during the Emergency (1975-77) under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
      • Based on the recommendations of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee.
    • Three words were added:
      • “Socialist” and “Secular” – inserted between “Sovereign” and “Democratic”.
      • “Integrity” – added to the phrase “Unity of the Nation” → changed to “Unity and Integrity of the Nation”.

    Why was it controversial?

    • It was passed during the Emergency, a time of suppressed democratic processes and curbed civil liberties.
    • Critics argue that the words were politically motivated and not part of the original constitutional vision.
    • Proponents argue that these values were already implicitly present in the Constitution, and the amendment merely made them explicit.

    Preamble as an integral part of the Constitution: Key Judgments

    • Berubari Union Case (1960):
      • The Supreme Court initially held that the Preamble is not a part of the Constitution.
      • It could be used to interpret ambiguous provisions but had no independent legal standing.
    • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Court overruled the earlier view and held that:
      • The Preamble is a part of the Constitution.
      • It reflects the basic structure and essential philosophy of the Constitution.
      • However, it cannot be used to override specific provisions of the Constitution.
    • LIC of India Case (1995):
      • The Court reaffirmed that the Preamble is an integral part of the Constitution.
      • But it is not enforceable in a court of law—i.e., one cannot file a case solely based on a violation of the Preamble.
    [UPSC 2020] The Preamble to the Constitution of India is:

    Options: (a) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect (b) not a part of the Constitution and has no legal effect either (c) part of the Constitution and has the same legal effect as any other part (d) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect independently of other parts

    [UPSC 2016] Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the preamble. Are they defendable in the present circumstances stances? 

     

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  • International Day against Drug Abuse

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    June 26 is observed globally as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day.

    About the International Day Against Drug Abuse:

    • It is observed annually on June 26, following a declaration by the UN General Assembly on December 7, 1987.
    • The theme for 2025, “Break the Cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime,” highlights the need for tackling organized crime networks linked to drug trafficking and calls for long-term investment in justice, education, health care, and alternative livelihoods.
    • Events are held worldwide to raise awareness about the social, health, and legal impacts of drug abuse, with active participation from governments, NGOs, and citizens.
    • In India, efforts like the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan reflect the government’s zero-tolerance policy and people-centric approach to preventing drug addiction and trafficking.

    Key Highlights of the UNODC World Drug Report (2024-2025):

    • The latest World Drug Report by UNODC reveals that 292 million people globally were using drugs by 2022, marking a 20% increase in the last decade.
    • The report notes a worrying expansion of synthetic drug markets, especially methamphetamine and fentanyl-type opioids, and links them to organised crime groups.
    • It calls attention to youth vulnerability, mental health correlations, and gaps in treatment access, especially in low-income countries.

    Back2Basics: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

    • Overview: It was established in 1997 through the merger of the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Centre for International Crime Prevention.
    • UN agency: It helps in tackling illicit drugs, organised crime, corruption, and terrorism.
    • Headquarters: It is located in Vienna, Austria.
    • Its core functions include:
      • Educating global populations about the dangers of drug abuse.
      • Assisting countries in ratifying and implementing international drug control treaties.
      • Strengthening criminal justice systems to promote the rule of law.
      • Supporting crime prevention, anti-corruption efforts, and terrorism prevention through technical and legal assistance.
    • Funding Mechanism: UNODC is voluntarily funded, mainly by governments, and works with partners worldwide to promote stable, secure, and just societies.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following activities:

    1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft

    2. Monitoring of precipitation

    3. Tracking the migration of animals

    In how many of the above activities can the radars be used?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) (c) All three (d) None

     

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    UP’s Salkhan Fossil Park makes it to UNESCO tentative list

    Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    Salkhan Fossil Park, also known as Sonbhadra Fossils Park, has been recently added to UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites.

    About Salkhan Fossil Park:

    • Location: It is located in Salkhan village, Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh.
    • Fossil Significance: It is renowned for its stromatolite fossils, ancient layered structures formed by cyanobacteria through photosynthesis.
    • Age of Fossils: These fossils are estimated to be up to 1.4 billion years old, dating to the Mesoproterozoic era.
    • Scientific Value: Preserved in Bhander limestone of the Vindhyan Supergroup, the site is one of the world’s richest Proterozoic rock collections.
    • Significance:
      • Evolutionary Insights: The fossils offer key evidence of early microbial life and events like the Great Oxidation Event, helping us understand Earth’s early biosphere.
      • Ecological Context: It lies within the Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, enhancing its ecological and conservation value.

    Back2Basics: UNESCO’s Tentative List

    • Definition: It is a country’s inventory of sites proposed for future inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
    • Nomination Process: A site must be on the Tentative List for at least one year before formal nomination.
    • Evaluation Criteria: Sites are assessed for natural, cultural, or mixed heritage value, based on global significance.
    • India’s Status: As of June 2025, India has 63 sites on its Tentative List, spanning ecosystems, monuments, and landscapes.
    • Benefits of Inclusion: While not guaranteeing World Heritage status, inclusion raises awareness, improves funding, and strengthens conservation.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:

    1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya

    How many of the above properties were included in 2023?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four

     

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Species in news: Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole)

    Prelims OnlySpecies | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The elusive dhole (Cuon alpinus), also known as the Asiatic wild dog, has been rediscovered in Assam’s Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL) after being thought locally extinct.

    About Dhole:

    • Overview: The dhole (Cuon alpinus), also known as the Asiatic wild dog, is a carnivorous mammal from the Canidae family.
    • Habitat: Historically, dholes inhabited southern Russia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia but are now limited to South and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and China.
    • Clusters in India: In India, dholes are found mainly in the Western and Eastern Ghats, the Central Indian Landscape, and the Northeast.
    • Key States: According to a 2020 study, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh lead in dhole conservation efforts.
    • Social Behaviour: Dholes live in packs of up to 30 but may also hunt solo or in pairs depending on prey availability.
    • Ecological Role: As predators, dholes help regulate prey populations and maintain ecosystem balance.
    • Conservation Status:
      • IUCN Red List: Endangered
      • CITES: Appendix II (not necessarily threatened with extinction but may become so if trade is not closely controlled).
      • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II (considered important for conservation and are granted a high degree of protection).

    Back2Basics: Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL)

    • Geographic Spread: KKAL is located south of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, comprising Kaziranga National Park (KNP) and the Karbi Anglong Hills.
    • Ecological Importance: KNP is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, known for rich, unmodified ecosystems.
    • Wildlife Corridor: KKAL facilitates seasonal migration during Brahmaputra floods, supporting species movement and survival.
    • Flagship Species: The landscape hosts the world’s largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as Bengal tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and wild buffalo.
    • B2B Corridor: KKAL forms a vital link in the proposed Bhutan-to-Burma (B2B) Connected Landscape, a 1,400 km biodiversity corridor across northeast India.

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    [pib] Researchers validate Optical Properties of Teak Leaf Extracts

    PIBPrelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the News?

    In a breakthrough, scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have found that teak leaf extract (Tectona grandis) could offer a natural, sustainable solution for laser protection.

    About Optical Properties of Teak Leaf:

    • Natural Composition: Teak leaves (Tectona grandis) contain natural compounds that can interact with strong laser light.
    • Laser Blocking Ability: These compounds can block harmful laser rays while allowing normal light to pass, making them suitable for selective light filtering.
    • Nonlinear Optics: This unique behaviour is called a nonlinear optical property, where a material responds differently to high-intensity light.
    • Linear vs Nonlinear: In linear optics, the material’s response is directly proportional to the light’s intensity. In nonlinear optics, the response becomes non-proportional, especially under laser exposure.

    Back2Basics: Teak as Timber in India

    • Teak (Tectona grandis) is a large deciduous hardwood tree native to India and Southeast Asia, mainly found in tropical dry and moist deciduous forests.
    • It is highly valued for its durable, strong, and water- and pest-resistant wood, making it the “King of Timbers”.
    • India manages 35% of the world’s planted teak forests, with major natural habitats in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
    • Teak is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List but is not under CITES; private plantations are crucial for meeting demand due to restrictions on commercial felling in government forests.
    • Green felling is prohibited in government forests under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and National Forest Policy, 1988, with timber supply to be met mainly from dead/diseased trees or private plantations.

    Recent Breakthrough:

    • New Discovery: Scientists discovered that teak leaf extract can function as a natural laser shield.
    • Protection Potential: The extract can block high-intensity laser beams, offering protection to human eyes and sensitive optical devices.
    • First of Its Kind: This marks the first known instance of a natural material exhibiting such laser-blocking properties.

    Significance for Humans:

    • Practical Applications: It can be used in laser safety goggles, optical sensors, and other light-sensitive technologies.
    • Safe Alternative: It offers a non-toxic, eco-friendly substitute to chemical-based laser protection materials.
    • Sustainability Impact: The use of plant-based materials supports cost reduction and promotes sustainable innovation in science and optics.
    [UPSC 2015] In India, in which one of the following types of forests is teak a dominant tree species?

    Options: (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest* (b) Tropical rain forest (c) Tropical thorn scrub forest (d) Temperate Forest with grasslands

     

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  • Electoral Reforms In India

    Registered Unrecognized Political Parties

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Representation Of People’s Act

    Why in the News?

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated the process to delist some Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs) that have not contested a single election since 2019 and whose offices are untraceable.

    About Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs):

    • Definition: RUPPs are political parties that are registered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) but have not yet qualified as State or National Parties.
    • Electoral Status: These parties may be newly registered, may have contested elections but underperformed, or may have never contested at all.
    • Privileges:
      • Eligibility for election symbols under specific conditions.
      • Tax exemptions for donations under Section 13A of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
      • The ability to participate in elections under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.

    How are Political Parties Registered?

    • Legal Basis: Registration is governed by Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
    • Requirements: Parties must submit an application with their constitution or memorandum to the ECI.
    • Declarations: The party must affirm adherence to the Constitution and commit to socialism, secularism, democracy, and national unity.
    • Benefits: Once registered, the party can contest elections, seek a common symbol, and receive legal financial support.

    Criteria for Recognition as a Political Party:

    • For State Party Recognition: A party must:
      • Win 6% of valid votes and 2 Assembly seats, or
      • Win 3% of Assembly seats or at least 3 seats, or
      • Win 1 Lok Sabha seat and 6% of valid votes in a general election from the state.
    • For National Party Recognition: A party must:
      • Be recognized as a State Party in 4 states, or
      • Win 2% of Lok Sabha seats (11 seats) from at least 3 states, or
      • Poll 6% of valid votes in 4 states and win 4 Lok Sabha seats.
    • Advantages of Recognition: Recognized parties get reserved symbols, broadcast time, campaign benefits, and can appoint more star campaigners.
    [UPSC 2001] Consider the following statements regarding the political parties in India:

    1. The Representation of the People Act, 1951 provides for the registration of political parties.

    2. Registration of political parties is carried out by the Election Commission.

    3. A national level political party is one which is recognised in four or more States.

    4. During the 1999 general elections, there were six National and 48 State level parties recognised by the Election Commission.

    Options: (a) I, II and IV (b) I and III (c) II and IV (d) I, II, III and IV*

     

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Puri Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath

    Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    The annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath at Puri, Odisha, has begun today.

    About Rath Yatra:

    • About: Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu chariot festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha, in honour of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu.
    • Legend: The festival commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, their birthplace.
    • Occurrence: It is held on the second day of Ashadha Shukla Paksha (June–July), according to the Odia calendar.
    • Procession: The deities are placed in three massive wooden chariots and pulled by devotees along the Grand Road (Bada Danda) for about 3 km.
    • Significance: It is one of the four sacred pilgrimages (Char Dham) in Hinduism and allows non-Hindus to have darshan of the deities, unlike entry to the temple.

    Key Events of the Rath Yatra:

    • Pahandi Bije: The ceremonial procession where the deities are carried from the temple to the chariots.
    • Chhera Panhara: A ritual where the Puri King sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, signifying humility and equality.
    • Three Chariot Pulling: Devotees pull the chariots—Nandighosa (Jagannath), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra), and Darpadalan (Subhadra)—toward Gundicha Temple.
    • Bahuda Yatra: The return journey to the Jagannath Temple, held on the 10th day of Ashadha Shukla Paksha.
    • Poda Pitha Offering: The deities are offered traditional cakes at Mausimaa Temple during their return.
    • Suna Besha: On return, the deities are adorned with gold ornaments on their chariots.
    • Niladri Bije: Final ritual where the deities re-enter the sanctum; marks the end of the Rath Yatra.
    • Rasagola Divas: Devotees offer Rasagola sweets to Goddess Lakshmi to appease her for not being included in the journey.

    Back2Basics: Jagannath Puri Temple

    • The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is a major Vaishnavite shrine dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Sri Krishna.
    • The current structure was rebuilt starting in the 10th century by Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
    • The temple showcases the Oriya style of architecture, known for sculptural richness and graceful forms.
    • It spans over 400,000 sq. ft., enclosed by the 20-foot-high Meghanada Pacheri.
    • An inner wall, called Kurma Bedha, surrounds the main sanctum.
    • Main Structural Sections:
      1. Deula/Vimana/Garba Griha: Sanctum sanctorum housing the deities on the Ratnavedi, built in Rekha Deula style.
      2. Mukhashala: The frontal porch.
      3. Nata Mandir/Jagamohan: The audience or dancing hall.
      4. Bhoga Mandapa: The hall of offerings.

     

    [UPSC 2009] Mahamastakabhisheka, a great religious event, is associated with and done for who of the following?

    Options: (a) Bahubali * (b) Buddha (c) Mahavir (d) Nataraja

     

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  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    India to host Regional Wing of International Potato Center (CIP)

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Major Crops & Cropping Patterns

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the CIP-South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) of the International Potato Centre (CIP) in Singna, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

    About the International Potato Centre (CIP):

    • Establishment: The CIP was founded in 1971 in Lima, Peru, to promote research on potato, sweet potato, and Andean root crops.
    • Global Reach: CIP operates in South America, Africa, and Asia, focusing on sustainable agriculture and nutritional security.
    • India Collaboration: CIP began its work in India in 1975 through an agreement with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
    • Germplasm Collection: It maintains the world’s largest germplasm bank for potato and sweet potato, making it central to crop breeding and biotech innovation.
    • Research Areas: CIP’s activities include crop improvement, pest and disease control, post-harvest technologies, and market linkages.
    • Partnership Model: The center works with local governments, agricultural institutions, and NGOs to develop climate-resilient, high-yielding varieties.

    Functions of the New Regional Center (CSARC) in India:

    • Location and Purpose: The new CIP-CSARC is being set up in Singna, Agra, to serve India and South Asia.
    • Core Focus: It will work on developing climate-resilient, disease-free, and processing-grade varieties of potato and sweet potato.
    • Food Security Goals: The center aims to enhance food and nutrition security, farmer income, and rural employment through improved productivity and value-added agri-products.
    • Global Linkages: It will provide Indian researchers access to CIP’s global network, innovations, and genetic resources.
    • Post-Harvest Development: It will strengthen seed quality, post-harvest systems, and improve India’s export potential in potato-based crops.
    • National Importance: This will be the second major international agri-research institute in India, after IRRI-SARC in Varanasi.

    Potato Cultivation in India:

    • About: Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is known as the “King of Vegetables” and is India’s fourth most important food crop after rice, wheat, and maize.
    • Origin: Introduced to India by Portuguese traders in the 17th century; It is a native crop of the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes.
    • Geographic Spread: Grown in 23 states, but 85% of production comes from the Indo-Gangetic plains in North India.
    • Global comparison: India is the second-largest potato producer globally after China, producing 51.3 million tonnes in 2020.
    • Top Producing States:  India’s average potato yield is 25 tonnes/hectare, which is only half the estimated potential of 50+ tonnes/hectare due to poor seed quality.
      • Uttar Pradesh: ~30% of total output
      • West Bengal: ~23.5%
      • Bihar: ~17%
      • Other contributors: Punjab, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
    • Climate Needs: Potato is a cool-season crop.
      • Ideal growth temp: 24°C
      • Ideal tuber formation temp: 20°C
    • Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils with moisture retention.
    • Planting Seasons:
      • Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand: Spring (Jan–Feb), Summer (May)
      • Punjab, Haryana, UP, Bihar, Bengal: Main crop in October
      • MP, Maharashtra, Karnataka: Both kharif and rabi seasons
    • Seed Management: Use disease-free, sprouted seeds (30–50g);
    • Popular varieties: Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Pukhraj, and Kufri Chandramukhi.
    • Fertilization & Irrigation: Apply balanced nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium; drip irrigation is recommended.
    • Harvesting: Ready in 90–120 days, harvested manually or mechanically.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following plants:

    1. Groundnut 2. Horse-gram 3. Soybean

    How many of the above belong to the pea family?

    Options: (a) only one (b) only two (c) All three* (d) None

     

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  • In news: International Olympic Committee (IOC)

    IOCRPrelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    Kirsty Coventry, aged 41, has become the first African and the first woman to head the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

    Also in news:

    The IOC has paused the selection process for future Olympic Games hosts, impacting India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics.

    About the International Olympic Committee (IOC)

    • Overview: It is a non-governmental international organisation established in 1894, and is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.
    • Functions: It sets the rules and framework for the Olympic Games, including deciding on host cities and event structures.
    • Membership: IOC members must be proficient in French or English and be citizens or residents of countries with a National Olympic Committee (NOC).
    • Jurisdiction: The IOC acts as the final authority on matters related to the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement.
    • Indian and the IOC:
      • The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been recognized by the IOC since 1927.
      • It is responsible for selecting and sending Indian athletes to the Olympics and other major international competitions.

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