Jan 13, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th January 2026

Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Central Ground Water Board Category: Polity and Governance Context: The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has stated that Andhra Pradesh is one of the States facing widespread contamination of groundwater as per the BIS standards. About Central Ground Water Board: Nature: It is the National Apex Agency entrusted with the responsibilities of providing scientific inputs for management, exploration, monitoring, assessment, augmentation, and regulation of groundwater resources of the country. Establishment: It was established in 1970 by renaming the Exploratory Tube wells Organization under the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. It was merged with the Ground Water Wing of the Geological Survey of India during 1972. Nodal ministry: It is a multidisciplinary scientific organization of the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. Mandate: It aims to develop and disseminate technologies and monitor and implement national policies for the scientific and sustainable development and management of India’s groundwater resources. Organization Setup: It is headed by the Chairman and has five members. It operates via 18 regional offices and 17 divisional offices across India. Composition: It is a multidisciplinary scientific organization consisting of Hydrogeologists, Geophysicists, Chemists, Hydrologists, Hydrometeorologists, and Engineers. Wings: It has four main wings, namely  Sustainable Management & Liaison (SML) Survey, Assessment & Monitoring (SAM) Exploratory Drilling & Materials Management (ED&MM) Water Quality & Training and Technology Transfer (WQ&TT).  Headquarters: Its headquarters is located in Bhujal Bhawan, Faridabad, Haryana. Regulation: The regulation and control of groundwater development is managed by Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in coordination with State Government Organizations. Focus areas: Groundwater explorations to delineate groundwater-worthy areas and potential aquifers. Geophysical surveys to delineate groundwater bearing zones, etc. Periodic assessment of the country’s groundwater resources. Monitoring of groundwater levels and quality through groundwater observation wells. Dissemination of Ground Water Data and knowledge. Source: The Hindu Hatti Tribe Category: Society Context: “Boda Tyohar”, the biggest annual festival of the Hati tribe in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmour commenced recently with traditional fervour. About Hatti Tribe: Nomenclature: The Hattis are a close-knit community who take their name from their age-old professional practice of selling their homegrown crops at small markets called ‘Haat’ in nearby cities. Location: These tribal people reside in the Himachal-Uttarakhand border in the basin of the Giri and Tons rivers, both tributaries of the Yamuna. Social Structure: The community maintains a rigid caste system, primarily divided into upper castes (Bhat and Khash) and lower castes (Badhois). Clans: There are two main Hatti clans: one in the Trans-Giri area of the Sirmaur district in Himachal Pradesh and the other in Jaunsar Bawar of Uttarakhand. The two Hatti clans have similar traditions, and intermarriages are common. Marriage: Jodidara is a traditional form of polyandrous marriage practised among the Hatti tribe in Himachal Pradesh, where a woman marries two or more brothers. Polyandry is legally recognised in Himachal Pradesh under revenue laws. Attire: Hatti men traditionally don distinctive white headgear on ceremonial occasions. Governance: Harris is governed by a traditional council called ‘khumbli’ which decides community matters. Economy: The Hatti population relies on agriculture for livelihood and bare subsistence since their climate is ideal for growing “Cash Crops.” Festival: Boda Tyohar, also called Magho ko Tyohar, is the biggest annual festival of the Hatti tribe. Population: According to the 2011 census, members of the community numbered around 2.5 lakh, but at present the population of the Hattis is estimated at around 3 lakhs. ST Status: In 2023, the Indian government granted Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Hatti community in Himachal Pradesh. Source: Hindustan Times International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Category: International Organisations Context: Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy recently delivered India’s national statement at the 16th Assembly of the IRENA in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. About International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA): Establishment: It is an intergovernmental organisation that was founded in 2009 to support countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future. Objective: It serves as the principal platform for international cooperation, a centre of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource and financial knowledge on renewable energy.  Member countries: It has 170 Members and the European Union. India is also one of the founder members of IRENA. Association with UN: It is an official United Nations observer. Secretariat: It comprises the Director-General and his staff, provides administrative and technical support to the Assembly, the Council and their subsidiary bodies. Headquarters: Its headquarters is in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Governance: Assembly is IRENA’s ultimate decision-making authority, made up of one representative from each Member.  Council: It is composed of 21 Member States elected for a two-year term and is accountable to the Assembly. Council members serve on a rotating basis to ensure the effective participation of both developing and developed countries and a fair and equitable geographical distribution. Source: PIB PSLV-C62 Mission Category: Science and Technology Context: ISRO recently said that the PSLV-C62 mission encountered an anomaly during end of the PS3 stage and a detailed analysis has been initiated. About PSLV-C62 Mission: Nature: It was the first space mission of 2026 for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).  Launch Vehicle: It was launched using PSLV-DL variant (Dual Launch), which utilizes two solid strap-on motors (PSOM-XL) to augment thrust. Payloads: It carried one primary satellite and 18 secondary payloads into space. The primary payload was the earth observation satellite EOS-N1 (codenamed ‘Anvesha’), an hyperspectral imaging satellite developed primarily for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for strategic purposes. Significance of EOS-N1: Unlike conventional imaging satellites, hyperspectral satellites could “see” the Earth in hundreds of wavelengths, allowing them to identify materials and objects with far greater precision. This capability made EOS-N1 a high-value asset for national security, border surveillance and strategic monitoring.  Other Important Payloads: AayulSAT (India): Developed by OrbitAID Aerospace, this was India’s first on-orbit satellite refuelling demonstrator, aimed at extending satellite life. KID (Spain): The Kestrel Initial Technology Demonstrator, a small-scale prototype for a re-entry vehicle designed to splash down in the South Pacific Ocean. Theos-2A (Thailand): An Earth observation satellite developed in collaboration with international partners. Anomaly: The mission encountered a third-stage malfunction (anomaly) after an initially successful lift-off. This was the second consecutive failure involving the PSLV’s third stage, following the PSLV-C61 mission setback in May 2025. Source: The Times of India Indian Giant Squirrel Category: Environment and Ecology Context: During the ongoing All India Tiger Estimation 2026 survey, the Indian giant squirrel, was sighted in the Atwan region of the Pune forest division. About Indian Giant Squirrel: Scientific Name: The scientific name of Indian Giant Squirrel is Ratufa indica. Nature: The Indian Giant Squirrel is a large rodent species native to India. More specifically, it is a type of tree squirrel. It is one of the largest squirrels in the world. Other names: It is also known as the Malabar Giant Squirrel. Distribution: It is found primarily in the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and Satpura Range. Their ranges include many states, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.  Significance: It is Maharashtra’s state animal and locally known as Shekru. Habitat: It is arboreal, spending most of its time in trees. It makes its shelter within holes in trees. They can propel impressive distances of 20 feet. Structure: Its total body length varies from 254 to 457 mm. The tail is typically longer than the length of its body. These squirrels weigh approximately 1.5 to 2 kg. They have short, round ears, a broadened hand with an expanded inner paw for gripping, and large, powerful claws used for gripping tree bark and branches. Difference between males and females: Females are usually larger in size than their male counterparts by about three centimeters and have mammae for nursing their young. Mating pattern: They are typically solitary animals, being seen only rarely in pairs during the breeding season. Distinguishing features: They are distinguishable by their striking, multi-colored hues. Colour patterns: The colours vary between individual squirrels. There is a common pattern of two to three shades, including white or cream, brown, black, red, maroon, and sometimes dark Fuschia. The deep shades are primarily seen along the body, while the lighter colors occur on the underside and the long, bushy tail. Conservation Status: It is classified as Least Concern under the IUCN Red List. Source: The Indian Express (MAINS Focus) Equality, Inequality and Democratic Governance in India GS-II: Indian Constitution—features, significant provisions and basic structure; Fundamental Rights; Directive Principles of State Policy.   Context (Introduction) Public debates in India often frame equality as hostile to growth and entrepreneurship, portraying it as a call for state overreach or “levelling down”. However, high inequality, not equality, poses deeper risks to growth, governance, and democratic trust. Core Idea Equality is not an obstacle to economic growth; rather, excessive inequality undermines social trust, institutional integrity, and democratic legitimacy. In modern, human-capital-intensive economies, broad-based opportunity and social mobility are prerequisites for sustainable growth. How High Inequality Distorts Polity and Governance Erosion of social trust: High income and wealth concentration weakens faith in democratic institutions and the fairness of outcomes, encouraging political alienation. Capture of the State: Inequality often translates into disproportionate political influence of elites, leading to regulatory capture, selective tax enforcement, and ad-hoc bailouts rather than rule-based governance. Entrepreneurship distortion: Inequality restricts entrepreneurship by limiting access to credit, education, networks, and legal protection, confining risk-taking to inherited elites instead of broad talent pools. Misallocation of resources: Capital and talent are drawn into rent-seeking sectors (finance, lobbying, regulatory arbitrage) rather than productive innovation. Weak public goods provision: Unequal societies systematically underinvest in health, education, sanitation, and social protection, undermining long-term productivity. Why Equality Matters for Democratic Polity  Substantive equality (Article 14) is not about uniform outcomes, but about preventing structural exclusion. Equality of opportunity lowers entry barriers, expanding the base of citizens capable of meaningful economic and political participation. Universal public services reduce bureaucratic discretion, corruption, and political patronage. Social trust—a key democratic asset—is stronger in societies where inequality is moderate and mobility is credible. Way Forward Strengthen universal access to health, education, and nutrition Reduce policy discretion through rule-based regulation and taxation Expand equality of opportunity, not outcome micromanagement Curb elite capture through transparency, competition policy, and electoral integrity Reframe public discourse away from “growth vs equality” binaries Conclusion Equality is not an ideological luxury but a constitutional and governance necessity. Far from constraining growth, moderate inequality sustains entrepreneurship, social trust, and democratic legitimacy. In India’s context, restoring equality to its rightful place in public discourse is essential—not to weaken markets, but to preserve democracy itself. Mains Question In contemporary policy discourse, equality is often portrayed as being in tension with economic growth and entrepreneurship. Critically examine this claim in the light of constitutional guarantees of equality and India’s commitment to a welfare state. How does excessive inequality affect democratic governance and institutional trust? (250 words, 15 marks) The Indian Express Early Investment in Children: The Foundation of India’s Human Capital Future GS-II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.   Context (Introduction) India’s aspiration to become a Viksit Bharat and a $30-trillion economy by 2047 cannot be realised through infrastructure and macroeconomic reforms alone. As highlighted in the article, early childhood care and development (ECCD)—especially during the first 3,000 days of life—remains a critical yet underinvested pillar of India’s development strategy. Core Idea Early investment in children is not a welfare expenditure but a high-return strategic investment in human capital. Scientific evidence shows that nutrition, health, stimulation, and caregiving from conception to early childhood shape lifelong cognitive ability, emotional regulation, productivity, and social mobility. Why Early Childhood Matters  First 1,000 days (conception to age 2): 80–85% of brain development occurs Most neural connections are formed Damage due to malnutrition or stress is often irreversible First 3,000 days (up to ~8 years): Shape brain architecture, learning capacity, emotional health, and social skills Determine adult productivity, health outcomes, and earnings WHO & UNICEF recognise this phase as a “critical window of opportunity” Gaps in India’s ECCD Approach Survival-centric focus: Policies prioritise keeping children alive, not enabling full developmental potential. Fragmentation of services: Nutrition, health, education, and caregiving operate in separate silos. Targeted rather than universal approach: ECCD largely restricted to poorer households, ignoring middle-income developmental risks. Delayed interventions: Formal developmental inputs begin around 30–36 months, missing the most critical period. Limited parental support: Parents lack structured guidance on early stimulation, responsive caregiving, and milestone monitoring. Why It Matters for Governance and Education  Human capital formation: ECCD reduces future expenditure on remedial education, healthcare, and social protection. Equity and social mobility:Early investment breaks intergenerational transmission of poverty and inequality. Economic productivity: Well-nourished and cognitively stimulated children become a healthier, skilled workforce. Institutional efficiency: Universal systems reduce discretion, leakage, and exclusion compared to targeted schemes. Way Forward Shift from fragmented schemes to an integrated national ECCD mission Make pre-conception care and parental counselling central to public health Universalise early childhood interventions beyond safety-net beneficiaries Integrate schools, anganwadis, health centres into child development hubs Train teachers, health workers, and caregivers in child development science Promote a citizen-led movement for early learning and caregiving Conclusion India’s future will be shaped not by what it promises its children, but by what it invests in them during their earliest years. Early childhood care and development is the invisible infrastructure of a developed nation. Ignoring it risks fragile growth; prioritising it lays the foundation for inclusive, durable, and competitive development. Mains Question Early childhood care and development (ECCD) is increasingly recognised as a decisive factor in long-term human capital formation. Critically examine why India’s development strategy must prioritise universal, integrated early childhood interventions over fragmented and survival-centric approaches. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu    

Jan 13, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 13th January 2026

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Jan 13, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th January 2026

Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication Technology Category: Science and Technology Context: The Government of India is preparing to roll out Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication technology by end of 2026. About Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication Technology: Definition: It is defined as a direct communication method that allows vehicles to exchange information with one another. Objective: The initiative aims to strengthen road safety and reduce accidents across the country. Significance: It enhances driver awareness of their surroundings through wireless technologies and allows vehicles to communicate directly with each other without the need for a network. Functioning: The system will function through a device similar to a SIM card, which will be installed in vehicles. The technology will provide alerts related to safe vehicle distance and will also warn drivers about nearby roadside or stationary vehicles. Mechanism: Vehicles will receive real-time alerts when another vehicle comes too close from any direction. Each vehicle equipped with V2V technology continuously broadcasts and receives data such as speed, location, direction, acceleration and braking status. Network Independence: It operates on a dedicated radio frequency (the 5.9 GHz band) authorized by the Department of Telecommunications and does not require mobile networks or internet connectivity. 360-Degree Awareness: The system provides signals from the front, rear, and sides, alerting drivers to hazards even when they are beyond the line of sight (e.g., hidden by sharp curves or other vehicles). Low Latency: Communication happens nearly instantly (less than 20 milliseconds), which is critical for preventing high-speed collisions. Advantage: This feature will be extremely useful during foggy conditions when visibility between vehicles drops to almost zero. Source: NDTV Boeing E-4B Nightwatch Category: Defence and Security Context: Boeing E-4B Nightwatch, known as the ‘Doomsday plane’, has been sighted in Washington, days after the US captured Nicolas Maduro and his wife. About Boeing E-4B Nightwatch: Other names: The Boeing E-4B Nightwatch is widely known as the “Doomsday Plane.” Mandate: Its mission is to ensure the US government can continue to function even if “doomsday” arrives. Uniqueness: It is the most secretive aircraft in the US military’s arsenal. It serves as the National Airborne Operations Center and functions as a flying command post. Significance: It is designed to keep the US government operational during extreme scenarios such as nuclear war, catastrophic attacks on US soil, or the destruction of ground-based command centres. Part of NC3: It is a core component of the military’s Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications system, often referred to as NC3, which enables senior leaders to authorize and manage nuclear forces under all conditions. Operational planes: There are currently four E-4Bs in service. At least one aircraft is kept on continuous alert at all times. Previous uses: The E-4B has been activated in a real emergency only once, in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, when it was used to ensure continuity of government. Modification: It is built on a heavily modified Boeing 747-200 airframe. Carrying capacity: Each E-4B has a maximum takeoff weight of around 360,000 kilograms, an unrefuelled endurance of roughly 12 hours, and an operating ceiling above 30,000 feet (about 9,091 metres). It can carry up to 111 personnel, including senior command staff, intelligence teams, and communications specialists.  Structure: The main deck is divided into six functional areas, including command workspaces, conference and briefing rooms, an operations floor, communications hubs, and rest areas. The aircraft is hardened against electromagnetic pulse effects, shielded against nuclear and thermal radiation, and equipped with multiple layers of secure communications. Source: The Economic Times Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary Category: Environment and Ecology Context: The Kerala government has officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the State. About Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary: Location: Situated in the Kannur district of North Kerala, it is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Establishment: Originally established as the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in 1984 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, it was officially renamed the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary on June 18, 2025, by the Kerala State Wildlife Board. Boundaries: It shares boundaries with the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka, the Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary, and the North Wayanad forest division. Vegetation: It consists of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Rivers: The Cheenkanni River, originating from the Brahmagiri ranges, flows through the dense forests of Aralam. Significance: The region is known for large-scale butterfly migration and mud-puddling and is also a special habitat of the Schedule 1 Slender loris. Every January or February, the sanctuary holds a Butterfly Migration Study, which celebrates this seasonal movement and deepens our understanding of these pollinators.  Fauna: It is home to over 266 species of butterflies, accounting for more than 80 percent of all butterflies in Kerala. Some of these are unique to this region, while others are endangered. In addition to butterflies, Aralam is home to several animals, including elephants, giant squirrels, leopards, and a variety of birds. Source: The Hindu PANKHUDI Portal Category: Government Schemes Context: The Ministry of Women and Child Development recently launched PANKHUDI portal aimed at strengthening initiatives for women and child development. About PANKHUDI Portal: Nature: It is an integrated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and partnership facilitation digital portal. Nodal ministry: It is launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Objective: It is aimed at strengthening coordination, transparency, and structured stakeholder participation in initiatives for women and child development. Single-window digital platform: It works as a single-window digital platform, Non–Resident Indians (NRIs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributors, corporate entities, and government agencies. Key Thematic Areas: Nutrition, health, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), child welfare, protection and rehabilitation, and women’s safety and empowerment. Supports Flagship Missions: It supports and strengthens the implementation of flagship missions, such as Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0, Mission Vatsalya, and Mission Shakti. Transparency: Contributors register on the portal, identify initiatives, submit proposals, and track the status of their contributions through clearly defined approval workflows. Non- Cash Financial Transactions: All contributions through the portal are accepted only through non-cash modes. Significance: It marks a significant step towards leveraging digital solutions for inclusive, collaborative, and outcome-oriented development of women and children across India. Source: PIB Dal Lake Category: Geography Context: Parts of the Dal Lake in Srinagar froze recently as the city recorded its coldest night of the winter, with temperatures plunging below freezing point across the Kashmir valley. About Dal Lake: Location: It is a mid-altitude urban freshwater lake located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is surrounded by the Pir Panjal mountains. Other names: It is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is named the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir” or “Srinagar’s Jewel”. Area: It covers an area of about 18 to 22 sq.km. Uniqueness: It is one of the world’s largest natural lakes and also known as the Lake of Flowers. Formation: Geologists suggest it is either a remnant of a larger Pleistocene Lake or a flood plain lake. Source of water: The lake gets its water mainly from the Telbal stream. This stream flows from the Jhelum River. Division: The wetland is divided by causeways into four basins: Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, and Nagin (although Nagin is also considered an independent lake). Lokut-dal and Bod-dal each have an island in the centre, known as Rup Lank (or Char Chinari) and Sona Lank, respectively. Floating gardens: The floating gardens, locally known as “Rad,” are a spectacular highlight of the lake. These are patches of land that float on the water. Farmers grow vegetables and flowers on them. Shikaras: Dal Lake is also popular for the floating market, where vendors have their own Shikaras/wooden boats and approach tourists. The shoreline of the lake is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal-era gardens, parks, houseboats, and hotels. Source: The Telegraph (MAINS Focus) The Right to Disconnect in an ‘Always-On’ Economy: A Global Norms Perspective GS-II: Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation.   Context (Introduction) Digital technologies have transformed work into a 24×7 activity, eroding the boundary between professional and personal life. This culture of constant availability has produced a silent crisis of burnout, mental health stress, and declining productivity. The debate on the “right to disconnect” has thus moved from a labour welfare concern to a global governance and international norms issue. Core Idea The right to disconnect recognises an employee’s entitlement to disengage from work-related digital communication beyond prescribed working hours without fear of reprisal. It reframes occupational safety to include mental well-being, aligning labour rights with contemporary realities of platform work, remote employment, and hyper-connectivity. Problem Diagnosis (Indian Context) Excessive Working Hours: ILO data show over half of India’s workforce works more than 49 hours per week. Mental Health Externalities: National surveys link work-related stress to rising anxiety, depression, and lifestyle diseases. Regulatory Gaps: The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 caps hours mainly for “workers”, excluding large sections of contractual, freelance, and gig employees. Power Asymmetry: Fear of disciplinary action for delayed responses skews bargaining power towards employers in digitally monitored workplaces. Why It Matters (Global and Economic Logic) Article 21 – Right to Life with Dignity: Mental well-being and reasonable rest are integral to a dignified life, as recognised in judicial interpretations of Article 21. Directive Principles: Articles 39(e), 39(f), and 42 obligate the State to protect workers’ health and ensure just and humane working conditions. Equality Concerns: Exclusion of gig and contractual workers raises issues under Article 14 due to arbitrary classification. Democratic Governance: A fatigued workforce weakens citizen participation and long-term institutional capacity. International Norm Diffusion: Countries such as France, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, and Australia have legislated limits on after-hours digital communication, recognising downtime as essential to productivity. Competitiveness Argument: Empirical evidence from advanced economies shows that respecting rest improves innovation, reduces errors, and sustains long-term output. Human Capital Protection: In an economy driven by services and knowledge work, mental well-being is a strategic asset. Normative Alignment: Adoption strengthens India’s compliance with evolving global labour standards promoted by the ILO. Way Forward Amend the OSH Code to extend the right to disconnect to all categories of workers, including gig and contractual employees Create grievance redress mechanisms against digital overreach Promote organisational culture change through awareness and compliance audits Integrate mental health support within occupational safety frameworks Conclusion The right to disconnect is not an anti-growth measure but an investment in sustainable productivity. As global labour norms evolve to address the realities of the digital economy, India’s willingness to institutionalise this right will signal whether its growth model values speed alone—or the strength and resilience of its human capital. Mains Question In the context of increasing digitalisation of work, the demand for a “right to disconnect” has acquired constitutional significance. Examine the relevance of this right in light of Article 21 and the Directive Principles of State Policy, and discuss the need for its statutory recognition in India. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu Saving the Aravallis: Why India Must ‘Think Like a Mountain’ GS-II: Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-III: Environmental pollution and degradation; conservation, environmental impact assessment. Context (Introduction) The Aravalli range, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, faces sustained ecological degradation due to mining, urbanisation, and fragmented governance across Rajasthan, Haryana, and the National Capital Region. Despite recent Supreme Court interventions—such as pausing height-based reclassification of hills—the crisis persists, highlighting deeper governance and environmental failures. Core Idea The ecological principle of “thinking like a mountain”, coined by Aldo Leopold, which emphasises long-term ecosystem integrity over short-term economic gains. Applied to the Aravallis, this approach demands treating the mountain range as an integrated ecological system rather than as discrete parcels defined by administrative or legal thresholds. Problem Diagnosis: Governance and Environmental Failures Short-termism in policymaking: Prioritisation of construction materials and real estate over ecological stability has led to quarrying, deforestation, and landscape fragmentation. Reductionist legal definitions: Height-based classification of hills ignores ecological functions of low-lying ridges, exposing them to mining and degradation. Fragmented governance: District-wise mining leases and State-level jurisdictions fail to reflect the transboundary nature of the Aravalli ecosystem. Ecological disruption: Mining and urban sprawl disturb natural drainage, accelerate soil erosion, reduce forest cover, and disrupt food webs. Why the Aravallis Matter Environmental security: The Aravallis act as groundwater recharge zones, biodiversity corridors, and a climatic barrier limiting desertification from the Thar. Recognising these functions, the Supreme Court in MC Mehta v. Union of India (Aravalli mining cases) prohibited mining in ecologically sensitive areas, affirming that environmental protection must override commercial exploitation Climate resilience: Forested hills capture carbon, regulate microclimates, and influence the monsoon system in northern India. Constitutional mandate: Article 48A directs the State to protect and improve the environment, while Article 21 (as judicially interpreted) includes the right to a healthy environment. In Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996), the Court embedded the doctrine of Sustainable Development into Indian law, holding that development cannot be pursued at the cost of irreversible environmental damage Intergenerational equity: Irreversible ecological damage violates the principle that development must not compromise future generations. Way Forward:  Adopt ecosystem-scale governance, treating the Aravallis as a single ecological unit rather than fragmented administrative zones Replace district-wise mining permissions with a comprehensive Aravalli management plan based on ecological carrying capacity Align judicial definitions with scientific understanding of ecological connectivity Strengthen enforcement of environmental laws through coordinated Centre–State mechanisms Embed long-term ecological impact assessments into all land-use and infrastructure decisions Conclusion The Aravalli crisis illustrates the dangers of governance that values immediate economic returns over ecological permanence. “Thinking like a mountain” is not environmental romanticism but policy realism recognising that while forests may regrow in decades, mountain ecosystems formed over millions of years are irreplaceable. For a megadiverse country like India, ecological short-sightedness would be the costliest failure of governance. Mains Question The degradation of the Aravalli range reflects the limitations of fragmented governance and short-term development-centric policymaking. Examine the environmental significance of the Aravallis and discuss how constitutional principles and judicial interventions can guide a sustainable governance framework for their protection. (250 words, 15 marks) The Indian Express    

Jan 11, 2026 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 10th January 2026

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Jan 11, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th January 2026

Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Weimar Triangle Category: International Organisations Context: EAM S Jaishankar recently participated in India’s first-ever engagement in the Weimar Triangle, with French and Polish counterparts along with German representatives. About Weimar Triangle: Countries involved: It is a regional political grouping of France, Germany, and Poland. Formation: It was formed on 29 August 1991 by a joint declaration issued in Weimar, Germany, by the Foreign Ministers of the three countries. Nomenclature: The group takes its name from the city of Weimar, Germany, where the initial meeting took place. The Triangle was initially the key forum for supporting German-Polish reconciliation after World War II. Structure: It has no formal institutional headquarters or permanent secretariat; it operates through regular summit meetings of heads of state and foreign ministers. Utility: Although the Weimar Triangle still has no institutional structure, it remains a framework of reference at the political level. Objectives: It had three objectives: To involve France in German-Polish reconciliation by building on the Franco-German experience; To strengthen dialogue and political cooperation between the three countries, To support Poland in its process of integration into NATO and the European Union (EU). Significance: Regular meetings at levels including heads of government, foreign ministers, and European affairs ministers have enabled coordination on EU policies, with notable outcomes including Poland’s accession to NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004. Role beyond diplomacy: Beyond diplomacy, it encompasses civil society efforts like youth exchanges, academic collaborations, and business networks to promote intercultural dialogue and mobility. Source: Hindustan Times Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) Category: Polity and Governance Context: The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), celebrated its 125th Foundation Day today at its Headquarters in Dhanbad, Jharkhand. About Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS): Nodal ministry: It is the regulatory agency under the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India. Objective: It dealt with matters pertaining to occupational safety, health, and welfare of persons employed in mines. Regulation: The objective is regulated by the Mines Act, 1952, and the Rules and Regulations framed thereunder. Headquarters: It has its headquarters at Dhanbad (Jharkhand) and is headed by the Director-General of Mines Safety. Constitutional provision: Under the Constitution of India, the safety, welfare, and health of workers employed in mines are the concern of the Central Government (Entry 55-Union List-Article 246). History: For administering the provisions of the Indian Mines Act, 1901, the Government of India set up a “Bureau of Mines Inspection” on the 7th January 1902 with headquarters at Calcutta. Change in name: The name of the organization was changed to the Department of Mines in 1904, and its headquarters shifted to Dhanbad in 1908. On 01.01.1960, the organization was renamed as “Office of the Chief Inspector of Mines”.  Since 01.05.1967, the office has been redesignated as the DGMS. Focus areas: The mission of the DGMS is to continually improve safety and health standards, practices, and performance in the mining industry and upstream petroleum industry by implementing: proactive safety and health strategies; continuous improvement of processes; effective use of resources; commitment and professional behaviour in its personnel. Source: PIB Vera C. Rubin Observatory Category: Science and Technology Context: Scientists analyzing the first images from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory have discovered the fastest-spinning asteroid in its size class yet. About Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Location: It is located 8,684 feet above sea level atop the Cerro Pachón mountain in the Chilean Andes, where dry air and dark skies provide one of the world’s best observing locations. Nomenclature: It is named after American astronomer Vera C. Rubin, who provided evidence about dark matter for the first time in the 1970s. Funding: It is jointly funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. Goals: The observatory has four main scientific goals: Understand the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Create an inventory of the asteroids, comets, and other objects in the solar system. Map the Milky Way and help reconstruct its history. Explore objects — like exploding stars and black holes — that change position or brightness over time. Centrepiece: The centrepiece of the observatory is the Simonyi Survey Telescope.  Uniqueness: The 8.4-meter telescope has the world’s largest digital camera, which is the size of a small car, weighs 2,800 kg, and boasts a staggering resolution of 3,200 megapixels. It can capture about 45 times the area of the full moon in the sky with each exposure.  Fastest-slewing telescope: It is the fastest-slewing telescope in the world and takes just five seconds to move and settle from one target to another. This speed is due to the telescope’s compact structure (owing to the three-mirror design) and its mount, which floats on a film of oil. Significance: This observatory will provide comprehensive images of the night sky unlike anything astronomers have seen before. It will constantly scan the sky of the southern hemisphere for 10 years, creating an ultra-wide, ultra-high-definition time-lapse record of the universe. Huge data: It will produce approximately 20 terabytes of data every night. The amount of data gathered by Rubin Observatory in its first year alone will be greater than that collected by all other optical observatories combined.  Source: Live Science M-STrIPES Category: Environment and Ecology Context: Forest staff who are to be involved in census of tigers and other wild animals will be using the advanced M-Stripes app at Anamalai Tiger Reserve. About M-STrIPES: Full Form: MSTrIPES stands for Monitoring System for Tigers: Intensive Protection and Ecological Status. Nature: It is a software-based monitoring system created to assist patrol and protect tiger habitats.  Launch: It was launched by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) along with the Wildlife Institute of India in 2010. Objective: It is designed to assist wildlife protection, monitoring, and management of Protected Areas. Technologies used: It uses Global Positioning System (GPS), General Packet Radio Services (GPRS), and remote sensing. Role of forest guards: Under MSTrIPES protocols, forest guards are expected to patrol their beats and record their tracks using a GPS, in addition to recording observations in site-specific data sheets. Composition: The programme consists of two parts: an analytical engine with a central desktop software and an online analysis tool, and an Android-based mobile application that records field observations and tracks using real-time GPS. Focus areas: It aims to collect information from the field create a database using modern Information Technology (IT)-based tools analyze the information using GIS and statistical tools  provide inferences that allow tiger reserve managers to better manage their wildlife resources. Source: The New Indian Express Kamala Hydroelectric Project Category: Geography Context: The Public Investment Board (PIB) recently gave approval for the Rs 26,070-crore, 1,720 MW Kamala hydroelectric project in Arunachal Pradesh. About Kamala Hydroelectric Project: Location: It is located in Arunachal Pradesh‘s Kamle district. Associated river: It is a 1,720 MW hydroelectric project, proposed on the Kamala River (a major tributary of the Subansiri River). Nature: The project involves construction of a 216-metre-high concrete gravity dam and an underground powerhouse. Capacity: The project will generate 6,869.92 MU of green energy annually on completion. Significance: In addition to power generation, the project also envisaged to provide flood relief in the Brahmaputra valley. Implementation: The project will be implemented on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis through a joint venture company with 74% equity by NHPC and 26% by the Govt of Arunachal Pradesh (GoAP). Cost: The completion cost of the project is estimated at Rs 26,069.50 crore. Financing structure: The project’s financing structure reflects strong institutional backing, with a 70:30 debt-equity ratio, substantial Central grants—Rs 1,340 crore for enabling infrastructure and Rs 4,743.98 crore for flood moderation—and 100 percent SGST reimbursement by the Arunachal Pradesh Government. Source: The Times of India (MAINS Focus) America’s Retreat from the Liberal International Order It Once Built GS-II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora; important international institutions, agencies and fora — their structure, mandate Context (Introduction) The post-Second World War global order was largely shaped and led by the United States through institutions such as the United Nations and the Bretton Woods system. However, recent U.S. policy choices—especially under the Trump administration signal a growing disengagement from the very multilateral architecture it helped create, raising concerns about the future of global governance. Core Idea The U.S. is progressively walking away from rules-based multilateralism in favour of unilateral, transactional, and short-term national interest calculations. This shift threatens the stability, legitimacy, and effectiveness of international institutions that have underpinned global cooperation and relative order for decades. Nature of the U.S. Retreat Erosion of Multilateral Commitment: Withdrawal from or undermining of global organisations dealing with trade, climate change, migration, and human rights weakens institutional credibility. Unilateralism and Executive Action: Increased reliance on executive orders and tariffs bypasses negotiated norms and dispute-resolution mechanisms. Normative Inconsistency: Actions such as violating sovereignty norms while claiming to uphold international law dilute moral authority. Trade System Disruption: Protectionist tariffs and coercive bargaining undermine the predictability of the global trading system. Leadership Vacuum: Reduced U.S. engagement leaves institutions under-resourced and directionless. Why It Matters  Fragility of Global Institutions: Institutions like the UN and WTO depend on leadership by major powers for enforcement and legitimacy. No Ready Substitute: While China may expand its influence, it lacks both normative acceptance and institutional depth to fully replace U.S. leadership. Impact on Global South: Multilateral weakening disproportionately affects developing countries that rely on rules-based systems for voice and protection. Rule-based Order at Risk: Retreat from norms risks a return to power-centric, interest-driven global politics. Implications for India Strategic Autonomy Challenge: A weakening multilateral order complicates India’s reliance on international law and institutions. Opportunity for Middle-Power Diplomacy: India can play a stabilising role by supporting institutional reform and coalition-based multilateralism. Need for Issue-based Engagement: Climate action, trade reform, and development finance require India to engage beyond great-power binaries. Way Forward Strengthen and reform multilateral institutions rather than abandon them Encourage shared leadership and burden-sharing among major powers Enable greater representation of the Global South in global governance Promote adherence to international law and negotiated norms Conclusion America’s disengagement from the international system it built risks accelerating institutional decay and global disorder. In the absence of a credible alternative leader, the erosion of multilateralism could result in a harsher, more unequal world. Preserving a rules-based order now depends on collective responsibility, adaptive reform, and renewed commitment by both established and emerging powers. Mains Question The weakening of the liberal international order today stems less from external challengers than from the retreat of its principal architect. Critically analyse the implications of the United States’ disengagement from multilateral institutions for global governance, and discuss the strategic choices this creates for emerging powers like India. (250 words, 15 marks) The Indian Express High-Quality Higher Education and the Imperative of Trust between the State and Institutions GS-II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.   Context (Introduction) India’s higher education system is undergoing a significant transition under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, marked by curriculum flexibility, interdisciplinary learning, and regulatory reform. This transformation has gained momentum, but its sustainability hinges critically on building trust between the State and higher education institutions (HEIs). Core Idea High-quality education cannot be delivered through regulation alone; it requires institutional autonomy anchored in accountability. Trust between the State and institutions enables innovation in teaching, research, and governance, while excessive control risks stifling academic creativity and global competitiveness. Trust Deficit and Structural Constraints Over-regulation legacy: Historically fragmented and compliance-heavy regulation has limited institutional autonomy and experimentation. Uneven regulatory capacity: Multiple regulators and ad hoc oversight have created uncertainty and inhibited long-term planning. Research ecosystem gaps: While ANRF and RDI schemes strengthen research funding, collaboration and institutional confidence remain uneven. Science education limitations: Despite progress, hands-on, experiential science education remains inadequate across institutions. Global mobility pressures: Tighter visa regimes and geopolitics require strong domestic institutions to retain talent. Why Trust Matters  Institutional autonomy: Trusted institutions can innovate curricula, pedagogy, and assessment aligned with global standards. Quality assurance: Unified accreditation and transparent disclosure signal quality to students and parents without micromanagement. Research competitiveness: Stable state support enables long-term investments in interdisciplinary and frontier research. Human capital outcomes: Education systems grounded in trust produce adaptable graduates suited for leadership, innovation, and economic growth. International credibility: Predictable governance enhances India’s attractiveness as a global education hub. Way Forward Implement the Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025 to create a single, credible regulatory architecture Shift the State’s role from controller to enabler and standard-setter Strengthen accreditation, benchmarking, and public disclosure instead of prescriptive controls Deepen industry academia collaboration and experiential science education Institutionalise formal trust-based compacts between the State and HEIs Conclusion India’s higher education reform stands at a decisive moment. Regulatory consolidation and policy clarity have created momentum, but excellence will depend on mutual trust between the State and institutions. A governance model that empowers institutions while ensuring accountability is essential if India is to build a globally competitive, innovation-driven higher education system. Mains Question Reforms in higher education increasingly emphasise autonomy, interdisciplinarity, and regulatory consolidation. Critically examine why trust between the State and higher education institutions is essential for achieving quality, innovation, and global competitiveness in India’s higher education system. (250 words, 15 marks) The Indian Express    

Jan 9, 2026 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 9th January 2026

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Jan 9, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th January 2026

Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Sports Authority of India (SAI) Category: Polity and Governance Context: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has launched a four-day Sports Sciences Workshop for combat sports coaches at its Sports Science Division in New Delhi. About Sports Authority of India (SAI): Nature: It is a registered society fully funded by the Government of India. Nodal ministry: It is the apex national sports body of India, established by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. Establishment: It was set up in 1984 to carry forward the legacy of the IXth Asian Games held in New Delhi in 1982 under the Department of Sports. Objective: SAl has been entrusted with the twin objectives of promoting sports and achieving sporting excellence at the national and international level. Focus areas: SAI’s primary efforts include widespread talent scouting and training of selected individuals by providing vital inputs like coaching, infrastructure, equipment support, sports kits, competitive exposure, etc. Significance: SAI has played a significant role in shaping India’s sports development by providing training to elite athletes and at the same time operating a number of schemes for the identification and development of young talent. Implementation of schemes: SAI implements the following Sports Promotional Schemes across the country to identify talented sportspersons in various age groups and nurture them to excel at the national and international levels: National Centres of Excellence (NCOE) SAI Training Centre (STC) Extension Centre of STC National Sports Talent Contest (NSTC) Other responsibilities: SAI is also entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining and utilizing, on behalf of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the following stadiums in Delhi, which were constructed/renovated for the IXth Asian Games. Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Stadium Indira Gandhi Sports Complex Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium Dr. Syama Prasad Mookherjee Swimming Pool Complex Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Ranges. Source: PIB Dust EXperiment (DEX) Category: Science and Technology Context: ISRO used the first homegrown cosmic dust detector, the Dust EXperiment, to confirm that a cosmic dust particle hits Earth’s atmosphere approx. every thousand seconds. About Dust EXperiment (DEX): Nature: It is the first Indian-made instrument to hunt for these high speed Interplanetary Dust Particles (IDPs).  Development: It is developed by the Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. Associated mission: It was flown on PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) of the PSLV-C58 XPoSat Mission on January 1, 2024. Uniqueness: It is the first-of-its-kind instrument designed to detect such high-transient particles. It is a blueprint of the detector which can study the cosmic dust particle at any planet having an atmosphere or no atmosphere. Mechanism: It is a compact instrument tuned to hear impacts, capturing vital data. At the core of the experiment lies a 3-kilogram dust detector based on the cutting-edge hypervelocity principle designed to capture high-speed space dust impacts with only 4.5 W power consumption. Positioning: It rocketed to an altitude of 350Km. Significance: Its data redefines our understanding of the universe and charts the path for safe human deep-space missions. Understanding and collecting data on interplanetary dust in Earth’s atmosphere will also be valuable for planning Gaganyaan missions. About Interplanetary Dust Particles (IDPs): Interplanetary dust refers to micrometer-scale particles originating from the solar system.  These are microscopic shrapnel from comets and asteroids that form our atmosphere’s mysterious “meteor layer”, and show up as “shooting stars” at night.  These can be analyzed to gain insights into their origins, formation mechanisms, and the processes that occurred in early solar and presolar environments. Source: NDTV Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Category: Environment and Ecology Context: The first phase of the All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 (AITE-26) commenced in the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary under the Erode Forest Division recently. About Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Location: It is located in the Bargur Hills of the Erode district in Tamil Nadu, at the junction of the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats. Status: It was notified by the Tamil Nadu government on January 30, 2024, it became the state’s 18th wildlife sanctuary. It is also one of the tiger corridors identified by the National Tiger Conservation Authority. Area: The sanctuary covers an area of 80,114.80 hectares (approximately 801 sq km). Tiger corridor: It is a vital tiger corridor identified by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), linking the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve and the Male Mahadeshwara Hills Tiger Reserve. Connectivity: The region is part of the Nilgiris Elephant Reserve and provides a crucial habitat for large herbivores, including elephants and the Indian Gaur. It connects the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve with the Cauvery South Wildlife Sanctuary, facilitating the safe movement of wildlife. River: The sanctuary is the catchment area for the Palar River, which flows into the Cauvery River and supports agricultural activities in the region. Biodiversity: The diverse landscape, including hills, valleys, forests, and grasslands, is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species.  Source: The Hindu Sagar Island Category: Geography Context: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently laid the foundation stone of a 5-km-long bridge over the river Muriganga to connect Sagar Island with the mainland. About Sagar Island: Location: Sagar Island is located in the Ganges delta, in West Bengal. It is about 100 km south of Kolkata. It is part of the South 24 Parganas district. Other names: It is also known as Gangasagar or Sagardwip. Associated river: It lies at the mouth of the Hooghly River (a major distributary of the Ganges), an arm of which separates it from the mainland to the east.  Uniqueness: Although Sagar Island is a part of Sundarbans, it does not have any tiger habitation or mangrove forests or small river tributaries as is characteristic of the overall Sundarban delta.  Cultural site: Situated at a point where the Ganges River system meets the Bay of Bengal, the island is held to be particularly sacred and is a noted Hindu pilgrimage center. Thousands of pilgrims make their way to Sagardwip every year in mid-January to take a holy dip in the river during the Ganga Sagar Fair.  Religious significance: The Ganga Sagar Fair is the second most attended fair in the world, after the popular Kumbh Mela. The Kapil Muni temple on the island is a popular pilgrim centre. Concerns: The island is highly vulnerable to coastal erosion and rising sea levels, which threaten its infrastructure and historic sites. Environmental Protection: Following National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives, recent measures include Casuarina shelter belt plantations and mangrove conservation to mitigate saline ingress and shoreline erosion. Source: The Hindu SHINE Scheme Category: Government Schemes Context: At the 79th Foundation Day of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs recently launched the SHINE Scheme in New Delhi.   About SHINE Scheme: Full Name: Standards Help Inform & Nurture Empowered Women. Objective: It aims to empower women with knowledge of safety, quality standards, and consumer protection. It positions women as “quality ambassadors” to ensure the safety of products in households and communities. Implementation: It is conducted through partnerships with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and NGOs via structured training and grassroots literacy programs.  Nodal ministry: It is a flagship women-centric initiative by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. Significance: Women-centric governance: Aligns with women-led development and grassroots empowerment Consumer safety: Reduces risks from substandard products at the household level Inclusive quality infrastructure: Extends standardisation beyond industries to communities Economic empowerment: Strengthens women-led enterprises through quality compliance Behavioural change: Builds long-term quality consciousness within society About Bureau of Indian Standards: Nature: It is the National Standard Body of India established under the BIS Act 2016. Objective: It was established for the harmonious development of the activities of standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Legacy: It is the successor of the Indian Standards Institution (ISI), which was created in 1947 to ensure quality control and competitive efficiency in the rapid industrialization era. Significance: It represents India in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Nodal Ministry: It is functioning under the administrative control of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Headquarters: Its headquarters is located in New Delhi and maintains regional and branch offices throughout the country. Source: PIB (MAINS Focus) Supreme Court’s ‘Green Governance’: Between Environmental Protection and Regulatory Uncertainty GS-II: Indian Constitution—features, significant provisions and basic structure; Structure, organisation and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary. GS-III: Environmental pollution and degradation; conservation, environmental impact assessment.   Context (Introduction) Over the past decade, the Supreme Court of India has increasingly shifted from judicial review of environmental decisions to issuing forward-looking, managerial directions. This transformation often triggered by regulatory failure has seen the Court step into the shoes of administrators. While motivated by environmental protection, this approach has generated uncertainty, inconsistency, and governance challenges. Core Idea The Court’s evolving role reflects a tension between its constitutional duty to protect the environment and the limits of judicial competence in policy implementation. By substituting regulators instead of disciplining them to act within statutory frameworks, the Court risks undermining regulatory stability, predictability, and democratic accountability. Judicial Overreach and Governance Gaps Shifting and reversible directions: Blanket rulings such as uniform Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), diesel vehicle bans, and firecracker restrictions have frequently been modified or diluted, creating policy uncertainty. From legality to consequence-based reasoning: The Court has at times prioritised immediate outcomes over doctrinal consistency, as seen in reversals on ex post facto environmental clearances. Expertise dilemma: Reliance on committees and expert inputs has been uneven, with expert conclusions sometimes adopted, contested, or abandoned within weeks. Continuing mandamus problem: Serial interim orders, affidavits, and modifications blur the line between adjudication and administration. Chilling effect on participation: Early judicial entry into approval processes discourages later public challenge and narrows the evidentiary space. Why It Matters Rule of law and separation of powers: Judicial governance, if unpredictable, weakens institutional clarity and accountability. Environmental outcomes: Regulatory uncertainty can be as damaging as regulatory laxity, delaying effective environmental protection. Federal and administrative strain: States and regulators face parallel decision-making pressures—statutory compliance on one side and judicial negotiation on the other. Public trust: Inconsistent standards erode confidence in both environmental regulation and judicial neutrality. Way Forward: Towards Stable Green Adjudication Re-centre the Court’s role on reviewing legality and procedure, not managing outcomes Use judicial power to discipline regulators back into action, with time-bound, reasoned directions Specify clear thresholds for when managerial intervention is justified Avoid sweeping, one-size-fits-all rules that invite exemptions and reversals Preserve space for public participation and contestation across regulatory fora Conclusion The Supreme Court’s environmental activism has filled critical governance vacuums, but its increasing managerial role has also produced uncertainty and instability. Sustainable environmental protection requires not continuous judicial governance, but strong, accountable regulators operating within clear legal frameworks. A steadier judicial hand protective yet  Mains Question In recent years, the Supreme Court has increasingly issued forward-looking and managerial directions in environmental matters to compensate for regulatory failures. Critically examine how such judicial “green governance” impacts the principles of separation of powers, regulatory certainty, and effective environmental protection in India. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu Using GSDP Share as a Criterion for Centre–State Transfers: A Federal Perspective GS-II: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure; devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Context (Introduction) Centre–State fiscal transfers in India are determined primarily through Finance Commission (FC) recommendations, which decide both the vertical devolution and the horizontal distribution among States. In recent years, these transfers have become contentious due to GST-related revenue changes, rising cesses and surcharges, and perceptions among high-performing States that their tax contributions are not adequately reflected in devolution outcomes. Core Idea State’s share in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) can serve as a meaningful proxy for the accrual of central taxes at the State level. Since direct tax collections are recorded at the place of registration rather than the place of income generation, GSDP better reflects underlying economic activity and contribution to national income than raw tax collection figures. Limitations of the Existing Devolution Framework Mismatch between tax collection and economic activity: Direct taxes are attributed to the location of registered offices, disadvantaging manufacturing and labour-exporting States. GST distortions: Destination-based GST captures consumption, not production, weakening its use as a contribution metric. Erosion of fiscal autonomy: Rising reliance on cesses and surcharges reduces the divisible pool shared with States. Equity–efficiency tension: Heavy reliance on income distance prioritises redistribution but undervalues contribution by high-GSDP States. Perception of unfairness: States like Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu contribute a higher share of national output but receive lower shares of transfers. Why GSDP Matters  Better proxy for tax accrual: Empirical evidence shows a strong correlation between States’ GSDP shares and central tax accruals, stronger than with devolution outcomes. Balancing equity and efficiency: GSDP captures contribution, while other criteria can continue to address regional disparities. Fiscal federal trust: Recognising economic contribution enhances the credibility and acceptability of the transfer system. Cooperative federalism: A formula that reflects both capacity and need reduces inter-State friction and strengthens Centre–State relations. Way Forward Increase the weight of GSDP share as a criterion in horizontal devolution while retaining redistributive variables Improve inter-State data on production, migration, and multi-location enterprises Rationalise cesses and surcharges to restore the size of the divisible pool Ensure transparency in FC methodology to build consensus across States Conclusion India’s fiscal federalism must evolve from a narrow redistribution framework to one that also acknowledges economic contribution. Incorporating GSDP more prominently in devolution formulas can strike a pragmatic balance between equity and efficiency, strengthen cooperative federalism, and enhance the legitimacy of Centre–State fiscal transfers in a post-GST era. Mains Question In the post-GST era, Centre–State fiscal relations are increasingly marked by tensions between equity-based redistribution and recognition of States’ economic contribution. Critically examine the case for using Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) share as a criterion in horizontal devolution of central taxes, highlighting its implications for fiscal federalism and cooperative governance. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu    

Jan 8, 2026 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 7th January 2026

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Jan 8, 2026 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 8th January 2026

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Jan 8, 2026 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th January 2026

Archives (PRELIMS  Focus) Biomaterials Category: Science and Technology Context: As countries look to shift to cleaner processes to manufacture consumer products, biomaterials will become the new frontier of materials engineering.         About Biomaterials: Nature: Biomaterials refer to materials that are derived wholly or partly from biological sources or are engineered using biological processes to replace or interact with conventional materials.  Usage: Unlike traditional petroleum-based materials, biomaterials are designed to reduce environmental impact while supporting sustainable production systems. They are increasingly used in sectors such as packaging, textiles, construction, and healthcare. Classification: Broadly, biomaterials are classified into three categories.  Drop-in biomaterials are chemically identical to petroleum-based materials and can be used in existing manufacturing systems without major modifications. Examples include bio-PET used in packaging.  Drop-out biomaterials are chemically different and require new processing or end-of-life systems, such as polylactic acid (PLA), which needs industrial composting.  Novel biomaterials go a step further by offering entirely new properties, including self-healing materials, bioactive implants, and advanced composites with enhanced performance characteristics. Significance: The development of biomaterials is seen as the next frontier in materials engineering as industries attempt to reduce carbon footprints and comply with tightening environmental regulations. Global Developments: The European Union has introduced binding regulations under its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, recognising the environmental benefits of compostable materials in specific applications.  The United States supports biomaterials through government procurement policies, particularly under programmes that prioritise bio-based products.  Meanwhile, countries like the UAE are positioning themselves as major manufacturing hubs through large-scale investments in PLA production. These global developments underscore the competitive urgency for India to scale up its biomaterials ecosystem. Current Status of Biomaterials in India: India’s biomaterials sector, encompassing bioplastics, biopolymers, and bio-derived materials, is at an early but rapidly emerging stage.  The bioplastics market alone was valued at around $500 million in 2024 and is expected to grow steadily through the decade. Several domestic initiatives highlight this transition.  Large-scale investments such as the planned PLA plant by Balrampur Chini Mills in Uttar Pradesh mark a significant step toward commercial-scale biomanufacturing.  Indian start-ups are also playing a role, with enterprises converting agricultural and floral waste into value-added biomaterials. Source: The Hindu Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) Category: Economy Context: Tickets for 170 ASI protected heritage sites and museums can now also be purchased online through Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). About Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): Nature: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is a network of interconnected e-marketplaces through which sellers, including brands, can list and sell their products directly to customers bypassing any middlemen or intermediaries. Objective: It is aimed at promoting open networks for all aspects of exchange of goods and services over digital or electronic networks. Significance: It allows transitioning from a platform-centric model to an open source network for buying and selling goods and services. Launch: It was incorporated in 2021 with initial investment from Quality Council of India (QCI) and Protean eGov Technologies Limited (formerly NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited). Nodal ministry: It was launched under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) by the Ministry of Commerce as part of the Digital India initiative. Similarity: Similar to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), ONDC aims to level the operational playing field among e-commerce platforms. Objectives: Democratisation and decentralisation of e-Commerce Inclusivity and access for sellers, especially small and medium enterprises as well as local businesses Increased choices and independency for consumers Making goods and services cheaper. Working Mechanism: It functions on the basis of an open network where it will not be a single platform similar to Amazon or Flipkart but rather in the form of a gateway where buyers and sellers across different platforms will be able to connect. Source: The New Indian Express Somnath Temple Category: History and Culture Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the nation on the commencement of Somnath Swabhiman Parv. About Somnath Temple: Deity: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Location: It is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra on the western coast of Gujarat. Uniqueness: It is the first of the 12 jyotirlinga shrines in India that are regarded as the manifestation of the Lord Shiva Himself. Religious significance: References to the temple are found in ancient texts like Skandpuran, Shreemad Bhagavat, Shivpuran, and the Rig-Veda. It is also the Neejdham Prasthan Leela site where Lord Shri Krishna took his last journey. Geographical Significance: Situated at the confluence of Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati rivers with the Arabian Sea. Abadhit Samudra Marg (Tirth Stambh) indicates an uninterrupted sea route to the South Pole, with the nearest landmass ~9,936 km away, reflecting ancient Indian geographical knowledge.  Timeline: The ancient temple’s timeline can be traced from 649 BC but is believed to be older than that. Construction: According to tradition, it was built in phases—first in gold by Somraj (Moon God), then in silver by Ravana, later in wood by Lord Krishna. King Bhimdev I (or Bhima I) of the Solanki dynasty rebuilt the temple in stone after its destruction by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE.  Attacks and reconstructions: First major attack on the temple took place in 1026 AD by Mahmud of Ghazni (documented by Al-Biruni). The temple was looted and destroyed multiple times, including in 1026, 1297, 1394, and 1706 CE (Aurangzeb). 2026 marks 1,000 years since the first attack, a significant civilisational milestone. Present form: The existing temple was rebuilt post-independence as a symbol of national resurgence. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel initiated the reconstruction in 1947. The Pran-Pratistha was performed by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad in May, 1951. Source: DD News Olive Ridley Sea Turtles Category: Environment and Ecology Context: Ahead of the sea turtle nesting season, the forest department has intensified conservation measures along the Mangaluru coastline by setting up hatcheries. About Olive Ridley Sea Turtles: Nature: They are the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles found in the world. Nomenclature: It gets its name from the olive green colouration of its carapace (shell). Uniqueness: It is best known for its unique mass nesting, called Arribada, where thousands of females come together on the same beach to lay eggs. Global spread: They are mainly found in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. Distribution in India: Major nesting beaches along the Odisha coast (Gahirmatha, Rushikulya, Devi River mouth), solitary nesting also occurs along the Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Andaman coasts. Largest rookery: Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is known as the world’s largest rookery (a colony of breeding animals) of sea turtles. Omnivorous: They are omnivorous, meaning they feed on both plants and animals. Solitary: They are solitary, preferring the open ocean. These turtles spend their entire lives in the ocean, and migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding and mating grounds in the course of a year. Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Vulnerable Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1 CITES: Appendix I. Source: The New Indian Express Suryastra Rocket Launcher System Category: Defence and Security Context: Indian Army signed a ₹293 crore contract with private defence manufacturer NIBE Limited, for the supply of an advanced long-range rocket launcher system Suryastra. About Suryastra Rocket Launcher System: Nature: It is an advanced long-range rocket launcher system. Development: It is developed by Pune-based NIBE Limited in collaboration with Israel’s Elbit Systems. Uniqueness: It is India’s first indigenous universal multi-calibre rocket launcher system. Range: It is capable of executing precision surface-to-surface striking targets at ranges of 150 and 300 kilometers. Multi-target Capability: It is designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously at varying ranges. Precision: It achieves a high degree of accuracy with a circular error probable (CEP) of less than five metres during trials. The same launcher is also capable of firing loitering munitions up to a range of 100 km. Technologies used: The system is based on Elbit Systems’ PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) launcher technology. It is equipped with a modern fire control system that integrates GPS, inertial navigation, and digital ballistic computation. Source: The Hindu (MAINS Focus) Strengthening India’s Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) GS-II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.   Context (Introduction) Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of India’s most serious public health challenges. The Prime Minister’s reference to AMR in the December 2025 Mann Ki Baat broadcast marks a rare moment of political signalling on the issue. This intervention has the potential to mainstream AMR as a public concern, but awareness alone will be insufficient without systemic strengthening of surveillance and governance. Core Idea AMR occurs when microorganisms evolve resistance to antibiotics due to their irrational and excessive use. In India, AMR has expanded beyond hospitals into communities, agriculture, and the environment, demanding a comprehensive One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems. Problem Diagnosis: Gaps in India’s AMR Response Indiscriminate antibiotic use: Self-medication and over-the-counter availability have accelerated resistance, reducing the effectiveness of antibiotics for common infections. Surveillance blind spots: India’s AMR surveillance network remains heavily urban- and tertiary-care-centric, failing to capture community-level resistance patterns. Limited representativeness: The National AMR Surveillance Network (NARS-Net) and WHO’s GLASS data draw from a restricted number of sites, excluding large non-urban populations. Exclusion of private healthcare: Absence of private hospitals from routine surveillance weakens the national resistance picture. Fragmented implementation: While policy frameworks exist, enforcement, monitoring, and investment remain uneven. Why It Matters  Threat to health security: Rising resistance undermines treatment of pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and post-surgical care. Economic burden: AMR increases healthcare costs, prolongs illness, and reduces workforce productivity. Equity concern: Rural and primary-care settings face higher vulnerability due to poor diagnostics and delayed treatment. Global obligation: India’s AMR trends influence global health outcomes, given its population size and pharmaceutical footprint. Way Forward Expand AMR surveillance to secondary and primary healthcare centres, especially in non-urban regions Mandate inclusion of private hospitals and laboratories in national surveillance systems Strengthen enforcement of prescription-only antibiotic sales Integrate AMR awareness with behavioural change campaigns beyond episodic messaging Operationalise a robust One Health framework linking human health, veterinary use, and environmental controls Conclusion Political acknowledgement of AMR is a necessary first step, but India’s real challenge lies in fine-tuning surveillance, regulation, and enforcement. Without representative data and systemic integration, AMR will continue to outpace policy responses. A strengthened, inclusive surveillance architecture is essential to convert awareness into effective national action against one of the gravest health threats of the 21st century. Mains Question Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is no longer a confined clinical issue but a systemic public health and governance challenge. Examine the major gaps in India’s response to AMR and discuss how strengthening surveillance and adopting a One Health approach can improve health outcomes. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu NATGRID and the Rise of Digital Authoritarianism in India GS-II: Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-III: Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate; Challenges to internal security through communication networks and role of technology.   Context (Introduction) India’s experience with terrorism, particularly the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, exposed serious intelligence coordination failures. In response, the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) was conceived as a technological solution to aggregate scattered datasets for counter-terrorism. However, NATGRID’s evolution from a limited intelligence-sharing tool into a vast analytics-driven surveillance architecture raises serious constitutional, governance, and security concerns. Core Idea NATGRID was originally envisaged as a middleware platform enabling authorised agencies to query multiple databases to prevent intelligence failures. Its contemporary expansion—marked by large-scale data access, integration with the National Population Register (NPR), and algorithmic analytics signals a shift from targeted intelligence to population-scale surveillance, blurring the line between national security and everyday policing. Problem Diagnosis: Governance and Security Risks Absence of statutory backing: NATGRID operates through executive orders without a dedicated parliamentary law, weakening democratic accountability. Mass surveillance creep: Expansion of access to police units and routine policing functions normalises extraordinary surveillance powers. Integration with NPR: Linking population registers with intelligence databases shifts surveillance from event-based tracking to continuous citizen profiling. Algorithmic opacity: Tools such as “entity resolution” rely on probabilistic inference, increasing risks of false positives and discriminatory outcomes. Oversight deficit: Lack of independent judicial or parliamentary supervision enables unchecked data access and mission creep. Why It Matters  Constitutional implications: The Supreme Court in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) recognised privacy as a fundamental right, requiring legality, necessity, and proportionality for state surveillance standards NATGRID currently struggles to meet. Rule of law and accountability: Intelligence failures are often institutional, not data-deficit driven; technology cannot substitute governance reform. Internal security effectiveness: Over-reliance on mass data risks diluting actionable intelligence, repeating the very coordination failures NATGRID sought to fix. Social cohesion: Automated suspicion disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, risking alienation and long-term security blowback. Way Forward: Rebalancing Security and Liberty Enact a comprehensive statutory framework for NATGRID with clear purpose limitation Establish independent oversight mechanisms involving Parliament and judiciary Limit access strictly to counter-terrorism and serious national security threats Mandate algorithmic transparency, auditability, and bias safeguards Re-emphasise human intelligence and institutional coordination over data maximalism Conclusion The trauma of 26/11 continues to shape India’s security imagination, but the response risks overshooting the constitutional balance. Without statutory grounding, independent oversight, and proportional use, NATGRID risks becoming an infrastructure of digital authoritarianism rather than a tool of effective security. True prevention lies not in omnipresent surveillance, but in accountable intelligence systems rooted in constitutional values. Mains Question Post-26/11 intelligence reforms in India have increasingly relied on large-scale data aggregation and algorithmic surveillance mechanisms such as NATGRID. Critically examine whether such technology-driven intelligence architectures strengthen internal security or risk undermining constitutional governance and civil liberties. (250 words, 15 marks) The Hindu