A KC‑135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members during the ongoing regional conflict.
Incident Details
The aircraft belonged to the United States Air Force.
The crash occurred during operations linked to Operation Epic Fury.
A second aircraft involved in the mission landed safely.
About the KC-135 Aircraft
Introduced over 60 years ago for aerial refuelling missions.
Typical crew: pilot, co-pilot, and boom operator.
Can carry additional crew or up to 37 passengers depending on the mission.
Plays a key role in extending the operational range of fighter and bomber aircraft.
[2025] With reference to India’s defence, consider the following pairs: Dornier-228: Maritime patrol aircraft IL-76: Supersonic combat aircraft C-17 Globemaster III: Military transport aircraft How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (Dornier-228 and C-17 Globemaster III are correctly matched) (c) All the three (d) None
India’s retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index, rose to 3.2% in February 2026, the highest in ten months. The data was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
Key Highlights
1. Increase in Inflation
CPI inflation increased from January 2026 levels to 3.2% in February.
The last time inflation was higher was April 2025 (3.3%).
2. Major Drivers of Inflation
The rise was mainly driven by:
Food and Beverages
Inflation increased to 3.35% in February from 2.1% in January.
This segment contributed 44 basis points of the 47-basis-point increase in overall inflation.
Paan, Tobacco and Intoxicants: Inflation rose to 3.5% from 2.9%.
Personal Care and Miscellaneous Goods
Inflation remained very high at around 19.6%, largely due to rising gold and silver prices.
Core Inflation
Core inflation (excluding food and fuel) remained stable at 3.4% between January and February.
Impact of Global Factors
Economists warn inflation may rise further due to:
Energy supply disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.
Higher prices in electricity, gas, fuel, restaurants, and accommodation.
Depreciation of the Indian rupee.
[2020] Consider the following statements: The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI). The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does. Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
India co-sponsored a resolution at the United Nations Security Council calling for the immediate cessation of attacks by Iran on Gulf countries amid the ongoing West Asia conflict.
Key Points of the Resolution
The resolution was backed by 134 countries.
13 members of the UNSC voted in favour, while Russia and China abstained.
It demands that Iran stop attacks against Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
GCC Countries Mentioned
The resolution refers to members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Jordan (partner country).
Maritime Security Concern
The resolution also condemns attempts by Iran to interfere with navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies.
India’s Position
According to the Ministry of External Affairs:
India prioritises the safety of all civilians in the conflict.
The GCC region is important because:
Around 10 million Indians live and work there.
The region supplies about 50% of India’s crude oil imports and around 90% of LPG imports.
Criticism of India’s Stance
Some former diplomats argued that:
India condemned Iran’s actions but did not explicitly criticise strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Critics say diplomacy should recognise the complexity of the conflict rather than blame a single side.
[2016] Which of the following is not a member of ‘Gulf Cooperation Council’? (a) Iran (b) Saudi Arabia (c) Oman (d) Kuwait
Om Birla stated that every Member of Parliament has the right to speak in the Lok Sabha, but only according to the Constitution, Rules of Procedure, and Standing Orders. His remarks came a day after a motion seeking his removal was defeated in the House.
Constitutional Basis
Freedom of Speech in Parliament: Under Article 105 of the Constitution of India: MPs have freedom of speech in Parliament. However, this freedom is subject to parliamentary rules and procedures.
Key Parliamentary Rules Governing Speeches
Recognition by the Chair: An MP can speak only when recognized by the Speaker. Members cannot stand and speak without permission.
Time is allocated based on: Party strength, Business of the House and Decision of the Speaker.
Agenda-Based Discussions
Members can speak mainly during: Question Hour, Zero Hour, Debates on Bills, Motions and Resolutions, Budget discussions
Rules of Conduct:
Members must:
Address the Chair (Speaker) and not other members directly.
Avoid unparliamentary language.
Speak only on the subject under discussion.
Special Procedures
Certain issues can be raised through specific procedures such as:
Adjournment Motion
Calling Attention Motion
Short Duration Discussion
Points of Order
Role of the Speaker
The Speaker:
Maintains order and discipline in the House.
Decides who speaks and for how long.
Can expunge remarks or suspend members for disorderly conduct.
[2025] With reference to the Indian polity, consider the following statements: I. The Governor of a State is not answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his/her office. II. No criminal proceedings shall be instituted or continued against the Governor during his/her term of office. III. Members of a State Legislature are not liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said within the House. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) I and II only (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) I, II and III
The Supreme Court of India ruled that income alone cannot determine the “creamy layer” among OBCs, and clarified how children of private sector and PSU employees should be treated in comparison with those of government servants. The judgment was delivered by Justices P. S. Narasimha and R. Mahadevan.
What is the “Creamy Layer”?
The concept emerged from the landmark Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992).
It excludes the economically and socially advanced members of the OBC category from reservation benefits.
Currently, the income ceiling for creamy layer is ₹8 lakh per year.
What the Supreme Court Said
1. Income Cannot Be the Sole Criterion
The Court held that salary income alone cannot determine creamy layer status.
The social position and post of the parents must also be considered.
2. Equality Between Government and Private Sector Employees
The Court addressed discrimination created by a 2004 government clarification:
Earlier:
Salary of private sector and PSU employees was counted in income.
Salary of government employees was not counted.
The Court ruled this creates “hostile discrimination” between similarly placed OBC candidates.
This violates equality principles under:
Article 14 of the Constitution of India
Article 15 of the Constitution of India
Article 16 of the Constitution of India
What Changes After the Verdict
Equal Treatment
Children of PSU and private sector employees will now be assessed similar to government employees, considering the status of the post, not only income.
Benefits for Affected Candidates
Candidates previously denied OBC status in exams (like the Civil Services Examination) may now receive benefits.
The Court allowed the government to create supernumerary posts if necessary to accommodate them.
Background of the Issue
1993 DoPT guidelines excluded salary and agricultural income while determining creamy layer.
A 2004 clarification included salary income for private/PSU employees, causing the dispute.
[2023] Consider the following statements: Statement-I: The Supreme Court of India has held in some judgements that the reservation policies made under Article 16(4) of the Constitution of India would be limited by Article 335 for maintenance of efficiency of administration. Statement-II : Article 335 of the Constitution of India defines the term ‘efficiency of administration’. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
The Supreme Court of India has agreed to examine what constitutes “personal data” and “public data” under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, amid concerns that the law may restrict access to information under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed by journalist Geeta Seshu and the Software Freedom Law Center India.
It was argued by senior advocate Indira Jaising.
The petition claims the DPDP law may:
Restrict journalists’ access to information in the public interest
Allow excessive state surveillance
Weaken transparency provisions under RTI.
Issues Raised in the Petition
1. Restriction on RTI Access
Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act allegedly blocks disclosure of personal information through RTI requests.
The term “public interest” has reportedly been removed, making access to information harder.
2. Lack of Clear Definitions
The petition argues the law does not clearly define: Personal data, Public data, and Information. This ambiguity may allow authorities to deny access to important information.
3. Compensation Concerns
Penalties for data breaches go to the Consolidated Fund of India.
Individuals whose data is violated do not receive direct compensation.
Court’s Observations
The Bench headed by Surya Kant said:
A balance must be maintained between privacy and transparency.
Data privacy should not undermine the public’s right to information.
The Court also noted that data has become a major economic and strategic resource, requiring careful regulation.
What Happens Next
The petitioners have been asked to frame specific legal questions.
The case will be heard further on March 23, 2026.
Significance
The case could shape how privacy laws interact with RTI in India.
It may clarify the scope of personal data in governance and journalism.
The judgment could influence the future of digital rights and transparency in India.
[2024] Under which of the following Articles of the Constitution of India, has the Supreme Court of India placed the Right to Privacy? (a) Article 15 (b) Article 16 (c) Article 19 (d) Article 21
The International Energy Agency announced a record release of 400 million barrels of oil from strategic reserves to stabilise global markets after oil prices surged due to the US-Israel war with Iran.
Key Points
Largest Release Ever
IEA’s 32 member countries agreed to release 400 million barrels of oil.
This is the largest coordinated release in the agency’s history.
It is the sixth emergency release since the IEA was created in 1974 after the oil crisis.
India is not a full member of the IEA.
Reason for the Decision
The conflict disrupted oil supply routes in the Middle East.
Tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz has been blocked or restricted.
Around 20 million barrels per day of oil flows are affected.
Contribution by Countries
Member countries will release oil based on their national circumstances.
Japan plans to release about 80 million barrels from its reserves.
Market Reaction
Oil prices initially fell but rebounded later.
Markets doubt whether the release will offset the large supply disruption caused by the conflict.
Comparison with Earlier Crisis
During the Russia–Ukraine War, IEA countries released 182.7 million barrels, previously the largest coordinated action.
Strategic Oil Reserves
IEA member countries collectively hold over 1.2 billion barrels in emergency reserves.
An additional 600 million barrels are held by industry under government obligations.
Significance
Aims to stabilise global oil prices and supply.
Demonstrates international coordination during energy crises.
Highlights global vulnerability to disruptions in key energy transit routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
In the context of global oil prices, “Brent crude oil” is frequently referred to in the news. What does this term imply? It is a major classification of crude oil. It is sourced from the North Sea. It does not contain sulphur. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
New books in the India@75 series are bringing attention to overlooked scientists, freedom fighters, and social leaders, such as Anna Mani, whose contributions had received limited public recognition.
About the India@75 Series
Launched during Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The series aims to document India’s historical journey before and after independence.
Categories in the Series: The books are divided into four themes: People, Places, Events, and Themes
Focus on Unsung Personalities
Under the People category, the series highlights both famous and lesser known figures such as:
Anna Mani
Janaki Ammal
Dhyan Chand
Minoo Masani
Rani Chennamma
Anna Mani
Known as India’s “weather woman.”
Designed and standardised more than 100 meteorological instruments.
Contributed significantly to meteorology, solar radiation research, and wind energy studies.
Janaki Ammal
Full name: Edavaleth Kakkat Janaki Ammal (1897–1984).
One of India’s first women botanists and cytogeneticists.
Known for pioneering work in plant breeding and genetics.
Dhyan Chand
Born: 1905, Prayagraj; died: 1979.
Known as the “Wizard of Hockey.”
One of the greatest hockey players in history.
Minoo Masani
Full name: Minocher Rustom Masani (1905–1998).
A prominent Indian liberal political leader and writer.
Co-founder of the Swatantra Party in 1959 with C. Rajagopalachari.
Advocated free markets, individual liberty, and democratic values.
Rani Chennamma
Born: 1778 in present-day Karnataka.
Queen of the Kittur.
Role in Freedom Struggle: Led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824.
Opposed the British refusal to recognize her adopted heir to the throne.
[2023] Consider the following pairs with regard to sports awards: 1. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award : For the most spectacular and outstanding performance by a sportsperson over period of last four years 2. Arjuna Award : For the lifetime achievement by a sportsperson 3. Dronacharya Award : To honour eminent coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams 4. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar : To recognize the contribution made by sportspersons even after their retirement How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four
A report by NASA’s Inspector General warns that delays in SpaceX Starship could affect the timeline of the Artemis Program, which aims to land humans on the Moon before 2030.
Background: Artemis Moon Mission
NASA is working with private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin
The Artemis programme aims to establish sustainable human missions to the Moon and eventually support missions to Mars.
Originally, the Moon landing under Artemis III was targeted for 2024, but delays have pushed the timeline to around 2028 or later.
Why It Is Difficult
Starship uses liquid methane and liquid oxygen as fuel. These must be stored at cryogenic temperatures below −150°C.
The system must perform multiple docking and fuel transfers in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
LEO already has heavy satellite traffic, increasing operational risk.
[2011] An artificial satellite orbiting around the Earth does not fall down. This is so because the attraction of Earth (a) does not exist at such a distance. (b) is neutralized by the attraction of the moon. (c) provides the necessary speed for its steady motion. (d) provides the necessary acceleration for its motion.
The Supreme Court of India allowed withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for Harish Rana, reaffirming the right to die with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The judgment was delivered by Justices J. B. Pardiwala and K. V. Viswanathan.
Key Features of the Judgment
1. Withdrawal of Life Support Allowed
The Court permitted withdrawal of Clinically Assisted Nutrition and Hydration (CANH) for a patient in a Persistent Vegetative State (PVS).
This allows the natural process of death rather than artificially prolonging life.
2. Replacement of the Term “Passive Euthanasia”
The Court clarified terminology: Active euthanasia remains illegal in India.
The earlier term passive euthanasia will now be called “withholding or withdrawal of medical treatment.”
3. Structured Medical Process Required
Withdrawal of life support must not be a single act. It must involve:
A structured palliative care plan
Medical assessment of whether treatment is futile or non-beneficial
Ensuring the patient does not suffer unnecessary pain.
4. Medical Board Review
Primary and secondary medical boards must examine such cases.
If both boards approve withdrawal, hospitals must inform the Judicial Magistrate of First Class.
5. Focus on Patient’s Best Interest
The Court clarified the test:
Not whether it is better for the patient to die
But whether it is better not to artificially prolong life through futile treatment.
Legal Background
The ruling implements guidelines laid down in the landmark case: Common Cause v. Union of India (2018)
That case recognised:
Right to die with dignity
Living wills or advance medical directives
Court’s Recommendations
The Court urged the Government of India to enact a specific law governing withdrawal of life support and end-of-life care.
Significance
Strengthens the interpretation of Article 21 to include dignified death.
Clarifies procedures for end-of-life medical decisions.
Balances medical ethics, patient autonomy, and constitutional rights.
[2024] Under which of the following Articles of the Constitution of India, has the Supreme Court of India placed the Right to Privacy? (a) Article 15 (b) Article 16 (c) Article 19 (d) Article 21
