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[DAY 49] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2025 POLITY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test πŸ™‚  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025. Click Here To Take The Test -> Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th May – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) SOUTHWEST MONSOON Category: GEOGRAPHY Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the Southwest Monsoon is set to make an early onset over the Andaman Sea. Decoding the context: The normal date for the onset of monsoon over the South Andaman Sea is anytime after mid May with the normal date being May 19. By late May, the monsoon advances close to mainland India. IMD declares the monsoon onset over India when it hits Kerala, where the normal onset date is June 1. Learning Corner: The Southwest Monsoon, also known as the summer monsoon, is a seasonal wind system that brings over 70% of India’s annual rainfall, critical for agriculture, water resources, and the economy.  It originates due to differential heating between the Indian subcontinent and the Indian Ocean, driven by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifting northward. Period: Typically spans June to September, accounting for 850 mm of India’s average 1,170 mm annual rainfall (IMD, 2024). Mechanism and Progression Onset: The intense heating of the Indian subcontinent creates a low-pressure area, attracting moist winds from the southwest over the Indian Ocean, leading to the onset of the monsoon. Branches of the Southwest Monsoon: Arabian Sea Branch: Moves northward along the Western Ghats, causing heavy rainfall on the windward side. Bay of Bengal Branch: Travels towards the northeast, bringing precipitation to the northeastern states and the Indo-Gangetic plains. Andaman Sea Onset: Normal date is May 19; in 2025, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts an early onset by May 12-14 due to a stronger cross-equatorial flow and cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal. Mainland Onset: Declared when the monsoon hits Kerala (normal date: June 1). IMD criteria include: Rainfall: At least 2.5 mm for two consecutive days in 14 stations in Kerala. Wind Patterns: Westerly winds up to 600 hPa level. Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR): Indicating cloud cover (OLR <200 W/m²). Advancement: By late May, the monsoon covers the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, advancing to Sri Lanka and South India. It reaches the northeast by mid-June and covers all of India by mid-July (normal date: July 15 for northwest India). Retreat: Begins in September from northwest India (Rajasthan), fully withdrawing by October 15, giving way to the Northeast Monsoon. Source : Indian Express INDIA’S MAJOR MILITARY OPERATIONS Category: NATIONAL Context: With the rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, ‘Operation Sindoor’ is viewed as a major strike at deterring the terrorist infrastructure operating in Pakistan. Decoding the context:  India has executed multiple military operations in the past to achieve various objectives. Learning Corner: Operation Sindoor:  India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7th, hitting nine terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).  This marked the most expansive and widespread retaliation by India in recent years, since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 and the surgical strikes following the Uri attack in 2016. Operation Bandar:  Codename for the Balakot airstrike conducted on February 26, 2019, in response to the Pulwama terror attack. Indian Air Force targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot, Pakistan, marking the first airstrike across the IB since 1971. Operation Vijay:  Launched in May 1999 to evict Pakistani intruders from the Kargil sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The operation culminated in India’s victory, with the complete withdrawal of Pakistani forces by July 26, 1999. Operation Safed Sagar:  It was the codename for the Indian Air Force’s role in the 1999 Kargil War. It involved a series of airstrikes to flush out Pakistani troops from Indian positions in the Kargil sector along the Line of Control.  This was the first large-scale use of air power in the region since the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Operation Cactus:  India’s intervention in the 1988 coup attempt in the Maldives was coded as Operation Cactus. With India’s military intervention, the Maldives was able to thwart the military coup.  Operation Pawan and Operation Poomalai:  Operation Pawan was the codename given to the mission of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka from 1987 to 1990.  As part of the Indo-Sri Lankan Accord, the operation was launched to disarm the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and ensure peace and stability in Sri Lanka.  India’s “parippu drop” or Operation Poomalai was launched by the Indian Air Force mission in 1987  to airdrop supplies to civilians trapped in Jaffna when Sri Lankan forces had laid siege to the peninsula. Operation Jackpot and Operation Cactus Lily:  Codenamed Operation Jackpot was launched during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. It called for operational and logistics support, training, equipping, and tasking of Bengali deserters from the Pakistan Army, East Pakistan Rifles, Police, and civilian volunteers to take on the Pakistani forces within East Pakistan to ultimately liberate the land. Operation Cactus Lily, also known as the Meghna Heli Bridge or the Crossing of the Meghna, was an air assault operation conducted by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force to cross the Meghna River and reach Dhaka in December 1971 during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Source : Indian Express SHAKTI POLICY Category: GOVERNMENT SCHEMES Context:  The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has accorded its approval for the Revised SHAKTI (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India) Policy for Coal Allocation to Power Sector. Decoding the context: The Revised SHAKTI Policy adds to the series of coal sector reforms being undertaken by the Government. Learning Corner: The Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India (SHAKTI), introduced in 2017, aimed to overhaul coal allocation for the power sector by replacing the nomination-based regime with a transparent auction and tariff-based bidding system.  Revised SHAKTI Policy simplifies the original eight categories of coal allocation into two windows, addressing operational inefficiencies and supporting growing energy demand while reducing reliance on imported coal. Key Features of the Revised SHAKTI Policy Two-Window Allocation System: Window-I (Notified Price): Coal linkages are granted at notified prices to govt owned thermal power projects (TPPs), including joint ventures (JVs) and subsidiaries. States can utilize for their own generating companies or Independent Power Producers (IPPs) selected through Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) or existing IPPs with Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Window-II (Premium Basis): Open to all domestic coal-based power producers (with or without PPAs) and imported coal-based (ICB) plants. Coal is allocated through auctions for periods ranging from 12 months to 25 years at a premium above the notified price. Removal of Mandatory PPA Requirement: Under Window-II, the necessity for a PPA to secure coal has been eliminated, encouraging private investment in thermal power by allowing producers to sell electricity freely. Support for Capacity Expansion: Promotes both brownfield (expansion of existing plants) and greenfield (new plants) thermal power projects, especially at pithead sites (near coal sources) to reduce transportation costs and ease railway infrastructure strain. Significance Energy Security: Aligns with India’s goal of reducing coal imports. ICB plants can now access domestic coal, reducing dependency on global markets. Economic Impact: Expected to catalyze economic activity by ensuring reliable and affordable power, potentially lowering tariffs (e.g., coal cost constitutes 60% of power tariffs, per CEA 2024). Employment Generation: New thermal projects, particularly at pithead sites, will create jobs in coal-rich states like Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. Ease of Doing Business: Simplification from eight categories to two windows reduces bureaucratic hurdles, aligning with governance reforms. Revival of Stressed Assets: Provides coal linkages to stressed thermal power plants, aiding their revival and reducing non-performing assets in the banking sector. Source : PIB GULLY EROSION Category: GEOGRAPHY Context: In a paper published in Scientific Reports, researchers estimate that gully erosion can potentially undermine efforts to realise nine of the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs), specifically those related to zero hunger, clean water and sanitation and climate action. Decoding the context: Gully erosion is arguably the most violent yet overlooked form of land degradation. Learning Corner: Gully erosion is a severe form of soil erosion where concentrated water flow carves deep channels or gullies into the landscape, removing large amounts of soil and degrading land productivity.  Unlike sheet or rill erosion, gully erosion creates permanent scars, often meters deep and wide, that are difficult to reclaim. A paper published in Scientific Reports highlights gully erosion’s threat to nine of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Loss of fertile farmland reduces food production. SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Sedimentation pollutes water bodies, affecting quality and access. SDG 13 (Climate Action): Soil carbon loss exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions, undermining climate resilience. Extent in India India loses 16.35 tonnes of soil per hectare annually to erosion (ICAR, 2023), with gully erosion prominent in: Chambal Valley (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh): Known as the “badlands,” with gullies up to 50 meters deep. Western Ghats: Heavy monsoon runoff on deforested slopes. Northeast India: Shifting cultivation (jhum) and steep terrain exacerbate gully formation (e.g., Meghalaya, Assam). Environmental and Socio-Economic Impacts Agricultural Loss: Gullies fragment farmland, making it uncultivable. In Madhya Pradesh, 12% of farmland in the Chambal region was rendered unusable between 2015-2023 (ISRO SAC, 2024). Water Pollution: Sedimentation from gullies clogs rivers and reservoirs, reducing storage capacity (e.g., Gandhi Sagar Dam on Chambal lost 20% capacity since 1960). Infrastructure Damage: Gullies erode roads, bridges, and buildings. In 2024, gully erosion near NH-44 in Morena, MP, caused a 200-meter road collapse, disrupting connectivity. Livelihoods: Affects 60 million farmers, especially smallholders, leading to migration and poverty (SDG 1). Climate Impact: Soil erosion releases stored carbon—India’s degraded lands emit 50 million tonnes of CO2-equivalent annually (IPCC, 2024), undermining climate goals. Government Initiatives National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Promotes soil conservation through contour bunding and check dams, reclaiming 2 million hectares by 2024. Gully Control Measures: Techniques like gabion structures, vegetative barriers (e.g., vetiver grass), and terracing have been implemented in Chambal under the PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMSKY). Monitoring: ISRO’s Bhuvan portal maps gully erosion hotspots, aiding targeted interventions (e.g., 2024 Chambal mapping identified 500 new gullies). Source : Down To Earth PULITZER PRIZES Category: INTERNATIONAL Context: The Pulitzer Prizes 2025 honored the best reporting from 2024 in 15 categories, as well as eight arts categories focused on books, music, and theater. Decoding the context: While primarily American, the Pulitzer Prizes have international significance, often highlighting global issues through award-winning journalism. Learning Corner: The Pulitzer Prizes, established in 1917 by the will of Joseph Pulitzer—a Hungarian-American newspaper publisher and pioneer of “yellow journalism”—are annual awards administered by Columbia University, New York City.  They recognize excellence in American journalism, arts, letters, and music, honoring impactful storytelling, courageous reporting, and artistic innovation. Structure and Categories Total Awards: 23 categories—15 in journalism (e.g., Public Service, Breaking News Reporting, Investigative Reporting), 7 in letters and drama (e.g., Fiction, History, Biography, Drama), and 1 in music. Awards: Pulitzer Prize winners typically receive $15,000 and a certificate. However, the winner in the Public Service category receives a gold medal instead of the cash prize and certificate.  Special citations are occasionally awarded (e.g., Chuck Stone in 2025 for his Civil Rights Movement coverage and co-founding the National Association of Black Journalists). Source : Hindustan Times Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to the Pulitzer Prizes, consider the following statements: The Pulitzer Prizes are awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The Public Service category is the only Pulitzer Prize that confers a gold medal. The prizes are awarded in journalism and literature categories. Audio reporting is a newly introduced category in the Pulitzer Prizes. Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 2 and 3 only B. 1, 2 and 4 only C. 2, 3 and 4 only D. 1 and 4 only   Q2. With reference to gully erosion in India, consider the following statements: Gully erosion is more severe than sheet and rill erosion and results in the formation of deep, permanent channels in the landscape. The Chambal Valley region is highly affected by gully erosion. Gabion structures, vegetative barriers, and terracing are some of the techniques used to control gully erosion. India’s soil erosion rate is below the global average, indicating minimal land degradation risk. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 1, 2 and 3 only C. 2 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4   Q3. With reference to the Revised SHAKTI Policy (2024), consider the following statements: Under Window-II, coal can be allocated to power plants without a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The policy promotes greenfield thermal power projects near coal sources to cut transport costs. Only government-owned power producers are eligible under both Window-I and Window-II. Coal linkages under Window-I are allocated through a premium-based auction system. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 and 4 only C. 1, 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4   Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR 7th May  – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – a Q.2) – b Q.3) – c

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 12th May 2025

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 πŸ™‚ After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

[DAY 48] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2025 ENVIRONMENT, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test πŸ™‚  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025. Click Here To Take The Test -> Click Here

[DAY 47] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2025 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test πŸ™‚  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025. Click Here To Take The Test -> Click Here

[DAY 46] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2025 ECONOMICS, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test πŸ™‚  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025. Click Here To Take The Test -> Click Here

Important Articles

[Results, Question Paper, Solutions] IASbaba’s All India Open Mock for UPSC Prelims 2025 - Mock 1

Hello Aspirants, Thank you for your tremendous response to our All India Prelims Open Mock! Which was held on 10th May More than thousand students took the test as per their preferred mode of choice. Many of the students have mailed to show their appreciation towards our commitment to our UPSC Aspirant Community. Click Here To Provide Your Feedback! Thank you for your valuable feedback and appreciation, it motivates the entire team, it will only make us to try and work harder to bring the best possible experience to our followers! Download Question Paper & Synopsis GS / Paper 1 GS Questions GS Solutions   CSAT / Paper 2 CSAT Questions CSAT Solutions Rank List Download GS / Paper 1 Ranklist Download CSAT / Paper 2 Ranklist   All India Mock Test on 17th May (Saturday)​ Note: We have introduced Rs.10/- as registration fee for OFFLINE & ONLINE mode. The registration fee of Rs.10/- is just a token amount for providing access/hall tickets only. This amount will not be considered an exam fee. We are collecting the fees to avoid unwanted/spam registrations. Register For 17th May Mocks The questions of these mocks will be made by experts from the IASbaba team which have been analysing the language and trend of UPSC. Hence you can be sure that these mocks will be closest to the language and difficulty level of UPSC. 17th May 2025 Paper 1 (General Studies) 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM Paper 2 (CSAT) 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM Centres for UPSC 2025 - All India Mock Test​ Delhi:  IASbaba, 56/3 First Floor, Bada Bazar Marg, Old Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi – 110060 (Opposite Grover Mithaiwala) Bengaluru: IASbaba Headquarters (HQ), 2nd floor, Ganapathi Circle, 80 Feet Rd, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru – 560072 * Centres are tentative, we will notify you via email if there are any changes. P.S. Since the seats are limited at any given centre, you must register soon through the given link Register For 17th May Mocks All the best!

[UPSC Prelims 2025] COMPILATION 60 Day Rapid Revision Series (RaRe) Series! – Subject-wise Current Affairs Notes (May 2024 – Feb 2025) – Your Ultimate Guide to Success!

Dear Aspirants, With just a few days left for UPSC Prelims 2025, the pressure is real — and so is the opportunity! If you’ve ever spoken to a topper, you’ll notice one golden rule they all swear by: Revision is everything! You may have studied from the best resources, followed ideal strategies, and solved countless mock tests — but without revising what matters the most, success may still remain out of reach. We understand the anxiety, the late nights, and the emotional rollercoaster you’re going through. That’s why we’re here to support you during this most crucial phase of your journey. We are thrilled to bring you the 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Current Affairs Compilations (from May 2024 to February 2025) — subject-wise and UPSC-relevant, crafted to help you revise smartly and effectively. This is your moment. Make it count. Revise smart, stay calm, and believe in yourself. Download RaRe Notes Compilations Polity Economy History Geography Environment Science & Technology International Relations   All the best!  IASbaba

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th May – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) CASHLESS TREATMENT OF ROAD ACCIDENT VICTIMS SCHEME Category: GOVERNMENT SCHEMES Context: A week after the Supreme Court reprimanded the government, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) notified the cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims during the “golden hour”. Decoding the context: Going forward, any road accident victim who does not have insurance will be provided free treatment of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh. The rules of the scheme are yet to be notified. Learning Corner: The Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025, was notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on May 5, 2025, under Section 162(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.  The scheme focuses on providing immediate medical care during the golden hour, defined under Section 2(12-A) of the Motor Vehicles Act as the first hour following a traumatic injury, to reduce fatalities from road accidents. Key Features Eligibility: Covers all road accident victims involving motor vehicles on any road, regardless of nationality, age, or socio-economic status, with no paperwork required at the time of treatment. The scheme provides cashless treatment up to β‚Ή1.5 lakh per victim for a maximum of seven days from the date of the accident. Funding is through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, established under the Central Motor Vehicles (Motor Vehicle Accident Fund) Rules, 2022. Implementation: National Health Authority (NHA) is the nodal agency, coordinating with police, hospitals, and State Health Agencies. States are required to onboard hospitals, including those under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, as designated facilities for providing cashless treatment under the scheme. Non-designated hospitals are permitted to offer only initial stabilization before transferring patients to designated centers. Legal Push Section 162 of the Motor Vehicles Act, effective from April 1, 2022, mandates the formulation of a scheme for cashless treatment during the golden hour. Despite this, implementation was delayed until the Supreme Court intervened. Supreme Court Directive: On January 8, 2025, the Court ordered the Centre to frame the scheme by March 14, 2025, criticizing the delay as a violation of Article 21 (Right to Life). Hit-and-Run Compensation: The scheme complements the Compensation to Victims of Hit-and-Run Motor Accidents Scheme, 2022, offering β‚Ή2 lakh for fatalities and β‚Ή50,000 for injuries. Source : Indian Express HUMAN DEVELOPMENT REPORT (HDR) Category: INTERNATIONAL Context: India climbed four spots to the 130th position out of 193 countries in the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) for 2023, according to the HDR titled ‘A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of Artificial Intelligence’. Decoding the context:  The Human Development Report (HDR), published annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since 1990, includes several indices to measure various dimensions of human development beyond economic growth Learning Corner: Key indices featured in the HDR: Human Development Index (HDI) – Measures a country’s average achievements in three core dimensions of human development. Components: Health: Life expectancy at birth. Education: Mean years of schooling (for adults aged 25+) and expected years of schooling (for children of school-entry age). Standard of Living: Gross National Income (GNI) per capita (adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity, PPP). Scale: Ranges from 0 to 1 Categories: Very High (≥0.800), High (0.700–0.799), Medium (0.550–0.699), Low (<0.550). Inequality Adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) – Adjusts the HDI for inequality within a country across its three dimensions (health, education, income). Gender Development Index (GDI) – Measures gender disparities in human development achievements by comparing female and male HDI values. Components: Same as HDI (life expectancy, education, GNI per capita), calculated separately for females and males. Calculation: Ratio of female HDI to male HDI (closer to 1 indicates gender parity). Gender Inequality Index (GII) – Measures gender-based disadvantages in three dimensions: 1. Reproductive Health (Maternal mortality ratio and adolescent birth rate), 2. Empowerment (Share of parliamentary seats held by women and secondary education attainment for females vs. males), 3. Labour Market (Female vs. male labor force participation rate) Scale: Ranges from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (complete inequality). Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) – Measures poverty beyond income by assessing deprivations in multiple dimensions of well-being. The MPI evaluates poverty across three dimensions, with 10 indicators: Health (2 indicators, 1/3 weight): Nutrition and Child Mortality Education (2 indicators, 1/3 weight): Years of Schooling, School Attendance Standard of Living (6 indicators, 1/3 weight): Cooking Fuel, Sanitation, Drinking Water, Electricity, Housing, Assets Poverty Cutoff: A household is multidimensionally poor if deprived in at least 33% of the weighted indicators (a score of 1/3 or more). Planetary Pressures-Adjusted Human Development Index (PHDI) – Adjusts the HDI to account for environmental sustainability, reflecting the impact of human development on the planet. Components: Adjusts HDI by two planetary pressure indicators: Carbon dioxide emissions per capita (production-based). Material footprint per capita (resource consumption). Source : Hindustan Times GAGANYAAN MISSION Category: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context:  India’s first human Space mission “Gaganyaan” programme has entered its final phase, with the first human spaceflight now scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. Decoding the context: The Human-rated LVM3 vehicle, the Crew Escape System, and the Crew Module and Service Module are all undergoing final stages of testing and integration. Learning Corner: Gaganyaan, India’s first human spaceflight mission, is an ambitious program by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to send a crewed spacecraft into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).  The mission aims to demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capability, making it the fourth nation after the USA, Russia, and China to achieve this feat independently. Objectives Launch a crew of three astronauts to a 400 km orbit for a three-day mission, followed by a safe return via splashdown in the Indian Ocean. Conduct microgravity experiments to advance scientific research. Develop technologies for future space exploration, including the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and a crewed lunar mission by 2040. Key Features Spacecraft: The 5.3-tonne Gaganyaan Orbital Module consists of: Crew Module (CM): A habitable, truncated cone-shaped module (3.7 m diameter, 7 m height) for three astronauts, equipped with an Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS). Service Module (SM): Houses propulsion and power systems, separating before re-entry. Launch Vehicle: Human-rated Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3), modified from GSLV Mk III, with a Crew Escape System (CES) for emergency aborts. Vyommitra: A humanoid robot developed as a robotic astronaut, will fly on uncrewed missions to test spacecraft systems, monitor parameters, and interact with ground control to ensure mission safety before human spaceflights. Source : PIB ADI SHANKARACHARYA Category: ART & CULTURE Context: The commissioning ceremony of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembering Adi Shankaracharya. Decoding the context: Modi referred to Adi Shankaracharya’s contribution to awakening the nation’s spiritual consciousness. Learning Corner: Adi Shankaracharya (circa 788–820 CE), born in Kerala, is one of India’s most influential philosophers and theologians.  Philosophical Contributions Advaita Vedanta: Shankaracharya is the foremost proponent of Advaita (non-dual) Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy emphasizing the oneness of Atman (individual soul) and Brahman (universal consciousness). Key tenets include: Brahman Satyam, Jagat Mithya: Brahman is the only reality; the world is an illusion (maya). Jivo Brahmaiva Na Parah: The individual soul is not different from Brahman; realization of this unity (jnana) leads to moksha (liberation). Key Texts: Authored foundational works like: Brahma Sutra Bhashya: Commentary on the Brahma Sutras, systematizing Advaita. Upanishad Bhashyas: Commentaries on major Upanishads (e.g., Chandogya, Brihadaranyaka). Bhagavad Gita Bhashya: Advaita interpretation of the Gita. Philosophical treatises: Vivekachudamani, Upadesasahasri, and Atmabodha. Institutional Legacy Mathas (Monastic Centers): Established four mathas to propagate Advaita Vedanta and unify Hindu traditions: Sringeri (Karnataka), Dwarka (Gujarat), Puri (Odisha), Jyotirmath (Uttarakhand). A fifth matha in Kanchi (Tamil Nadu) is also attributed to him, though its historical connection is debated. These mathas standardized Vedic learning, preserved texts, and countered heterodox schools like Buddhism and Jainism. Through debates and pilgrimages, he revitalized hinduism during a period of decline, challenging Buddhist and Jain philosophies. He integrated diverse practices (Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism) under the umbrella of Advaita, promoting unity via the Panchayatana Puja (worship of five deities: Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, Surya, Ganesha). Cultural and Religious Impact Unification of Traditions: Promoted the concept of Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti (Truth is one, sages call it by many names), fostering harmony among Hindu sects. Pilgrimage Promotion: Revived sacred sites like Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Rameshwaram, strengthening the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. His travels across India (from Kanyakumari to Kashmir) symbolize cultural unity. Legacy in Texts: His teachings influenced later philosophers like Ramanuja (Vishishtadvaita) and Madhva (Dvaita), shaping India’s philosophical discourse. Source : Economic Times GEOTHERMAL ENERGY Category: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: In a first-of-its-kind breakthrough for the Northeast, the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled the region’s first geothermal production well in Dirang, located in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district. Decoding the context: The geothermal-powered drying and storage facilities in Dirang are expected to become operational soon, setting a national precedent for renewable energy deployment in remote and mountainous regions. Learning Corner: Geothermal energy harnesses heat from the Earth’s interior—primarily from radioactive decay and residual heat from planetary formation—to generate power or provide direct heating. It is a renewable, low-carbon energy source. The three main types of geothermal power plants are –  Dry Steam: Directly uses steam from reservoirs (e.g., The Geysers, USA). Flash Steam: High-pressure hot water is depressurized into steam. Binary Cycle: Transfers heat from geothermal fluid to a secondary fluid for power generation. India’s geothermal potential is estimated at 10,600 MW, largely untapped, with 300+ hot springs across Himalayan and peninsular regions (Geological Survey of India, 2023). Geothermal Potential in India Key Regions: Himalayan Belt: High-temperature systems (e.g., Puga Valley, Ladakh; Chumathang, Ladakh; Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh). Peninsular India: Medium-temperature systems (e.g., Tattapani, Chhattisgarh; Cambay Basin, Gujarat). Hot Springs: Over 300 identified, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 150°C (e.g., Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh at 96°C). Progress: Ladakh’s Chumathang project (2023) uses geothermal energy for space heating in hotels, benefiting civilians and military personnel. Source : Business Today Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to geothermal energy in India, consider the following statements: Puga Valley and Chumathang in Ladakh are known for high-temperature geothermal resources. India has an estimated geothermal energy potential of over 10,000 MW, as per the Geological Survey of India. Binary Cycle geothermal plants use steam directly from geothermal reservoirs to drive turbines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3   Q2. With reference to Adi Shankaracharya, consider the following statements: He is regarded as the main proponent of Dvaita Vedanta. He authored commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras. He promoted the Panchayatana Puja system to harmonize sectarian worship within Hinduism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3   Q3.In the context of the Gaganyaan mission, Vyommitra is: (a) An Indian woman astronaut selected for the first human flight (b) An Earth-observation satellite launched alongside the mission (c) A humanoid robot designed for uncrewed test flights (d) The name of the Indian lunar rover   Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR 6 May  – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – a Q.2) – b Q.3) – d

[DAY 45] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2025 ECONOMICS, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test πŸ™‚  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025. Click Here To Take The Test -> Click Here