Subject: Economy / Science & Technology (Digital Commerce, ONDC, Retail Digitisation, MSMEs, Digital Public Infrastructure)

Why in News?
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), recently held a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Roundtable to discuss the expansion of DigiDukaan, an initiative aimed at digitising procurement for India’s vast kirana retail network. 

What is DigiDukaan?

• DigiDukaan is an initiative of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). 
• It aims to digitise kirana stores for B2B procurement and integrate them into a modern digital supply chain ecosystem. 
• Targets India’s 1.4 crore kirana stores, which account for nearly 75–80% of FMCG sales. 

Key Features

For Kirana Stores

• Direct procurement from suppliers. 
• Better visibility of promotional schemes. 
• Improved fill rates and working capital management. 

For Distributors

• Digital order and collection systems. 
• Wider retailer coverage without additional field costs. 

For Brands

• Access to retailer demand signals. 
• Better tracking of schemes and secondary sales data. 

Implementation Status

• Pilot success in Hyderabad with over 10,000 retailers and 35+ brands onboarded. 
• Expansion planned to Jaipur, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

DigiDukaan is an important example of India’s open digital commerce architecture. It complements initiatives such as UPI, Account Aggregator Framework, and ONDC, aiming to democratise digital markets and reduce platform monopolies. The topic links Economy, MSMEs, e-commerce regulation, and digital governance.

Possible Prelims Angles

• Objectives and features of ONDC. 
• Difference between ONDC and conventional e-commerce platforms. 
• Role of DPIIT under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. 
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives in India. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272311&reg=48&lang=1

Subject: International Relations / Reports & Indices (Global Indices, International Think Tanks, Peace and Security Indicators)

Why in News?
According to the latest Global Peace Index (GPI) 2026, Sri Lanka climbed 14 places to 67th rank globally, becoming the second most peaceful country in South Asia after Bhutan. The report highlights Sri Lanka’s improvement in political stability, public security, and post-crisis recovery. 

About the Global Peace Index (GPI)

• Published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). 
• Launched in 2007. 
• Recognized as the world’s leading measure of peacefulness. 
• Covers 163 independent states and territories, representing about 99.7% of the global population. 

Methodology

The index assesses peace using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators grouped under three domains:

1. Societal Safety and Security 
2. Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict 
3. Militarisation 

Key Findings (GPI 2026)

• Iceland remains the world’s most peaceful country. 
• New Zealand, Switzerland, Austria, and Singapore are among the top-ranked nations. 
• Global peacefulness has declined for the 12th consecutive year. 
• South Asia remains one of the least peaceful regions globally. 
• Bhutan is the most peaceful country in South Asia, while Sri Lanka ranks second. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

GPI is frequently relevant for UPSC questions on international reports and indices. Aspirants should focus on:

• Organization releasing the index. 
• Indicators used in ranking. 
• Top and bottom-ranked countries. 
• Comparison with indices such as the Global Terrorism Index, Human Development Index, and World Happiness Report. 

Possible Prelims Angles

• Which organization releases the GPI? 
• What are the three domains used in GPI assessment? 
• Difference between peace-related and development-related global indices. 

Source/Reference:

https://newsonair.gov.in/sri-lanka-ranked-67th-in-global-peace-index-and-second-in-south-asia/

Subject: Science & Technology (Space Science & Astronomy) (Stellar Evolution, Supernovae, Distance Measurement in Astronomy, Neutron Stars)

Why in News?
A study led by researchers from the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences has revealed that observations of Supernova SN 2023zcu, discovered in the galaxy NGC 2139, can improve distance measurements in the local universe and strengthen the cosmic distance scale. 

About Supernova SN 2023zcu

• Discovered on 8 December 2023 in the spiral galaxy NGC 2139. 
• Located about 90.7 million light-years (27.8 Mpc) from Earth. 
• Classified as a Type IIP Core-Collapse Supernova. 

What is a Supernova?

A supernova is the catastrophic explosion of a star at the end of its life cycle, releasing enormous amounts of energy and heavy elements into space. 

Major Types

1. Core-Collapse Supernova (CCSN): 
   • Occurs when a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel and collapses under gravity. 
   • Often leaves behind a neutron star or black hole. 
2. Thermonuclear (Type Ia) Supernova: 
   • Occurs in binary star systems involving a white dwarf. 

Key Findings of the Study

• The progenitor star was a Red Supergiant with a mass nearly 12 times that of the Sun. 
• Distance estimated using the Expanding Photospheric Method (EPM). 
• Presence of hydrogen-rich outer layers created the characteristic plateau phase, a defining feature of Type IIP supernovae. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

The topic links stellar evolution, life cycle of stars, neutron stars, and distance measurement techniques in astronomy. UPSC often asks conceptual questions on celestial objects and stellar phenomena.

Possible Prelims Angles

• Difference between nova and supernova. 
• Types of supernovae and their causes. 
• Formation of neutron stars and black holes. 
• Importance of supernovae in the formation of heavy elements. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272106&reg=3&lang=1

Subject: Environment & Ecology / Agriculture (Pesticides & Herbicides, Chemical Toxicity, Insecticides Act, 1968, Environmental Health)

Why in News?
The Telangana Government imposed a ban on the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of Paraquat citing serious public health concerns, including poisoning-related deaths. The move has reignited the debate on regulating highly hazardous pesticides in India. 

What is Paraquat?

• Paraquat (Paraquat Dichloride) is a highly toxic, fast-acting, non-selective contact herbicide used to control weeds. 
• Chemical name: 1,1′-Dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride. 
• Widely used in crops such as paddy, tea, cotton, and plantations. 
• It destroys green plant tissues by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). 

Health and Environmental Concerns

• Extremely poisonous even in small quantities. 
• No known antidote exists. 
• Causes irreversible lung fibrosis, multi-organ failure, and high mortality rates. 
• Associated with accidental poisoning and suicides due to easy accessibility. 

Regulatory Status

• Telangana became one of the Indian states to restrict Paraquat under Section 27 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, which empowers states to prohibit pesticide use temporarily to prevent risks to humans and animals. 
• Banned or heavily restricted in 60+ countries, including the European Union, China, and Brazil. 
• Despite concerns, Paraquat remains centrally registered in India. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

This topic links agricultural practices, environmental governance, and public health regulation. UPSC may focus on:

• Difference between herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides. 
• Powers of States under the Insecticides Act, 1968. 
• CIBRC and pesticide regulation framework. 
• International restrictions on hazardous agrochemicals. 

Possible Prelims Angles

• Which body registers pesticides in India? 
• What is the purpose of Section 27 of the Insecticides Act, 1968? 
• Why are certain pesticides classified as Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs)? 

Source/Reference:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/the-human-cost-of-a-deadly-weed-killer-banning-of-paraqua-in-telangana/article71094620.ece

Subject: Science & Technology (Biotechnology & Neuroscience) (Human Brain Mapping, Neuroanatomy, Medical Imaging, Brain Research Initiatives)

Why in News?
Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology Madras recently released ANCHOR, the world’s most detailed 3D atlas of the human brainstem at cellular resolution. The atlas was unveiled during the 3rd BRICS Neuroscience Symposium 2026. 

What is ANCHOR?

ANCHOR stands for Atlas of Neurochemical Characterization of the Human Brainstem with 3D Reconstruction. It has been developed by the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre (SGBC). 

Key Features

• World’s most comprehensive multimodal 3D atlas of the human brainstem. 
• Covers brain development from: 
  • Prenatal stage 
  • Childhood 
  • Adulthood. 
• Includes: 
  • More than 200 brainstem nuclei and fibre tracts 
  • Reconstructions from hundreds of serial tissue sections 
  • Eight complementary immunostains mapped across more than 500 sections. 
• Integrates: 
  • MRI imaging 
  • Histology 
  • Neurochemical architecture. 

Why is the Brainstem Important?

The brainstem connects the brain to the spinal cord and regulates vital involuntary functions such as:

• Breathing 
• Heart rate 
• Sleep–wake cycles 
• Motor control and reflexes. 

Significance

• Helps identify specific cell populations affected in neurological disorders. 
• Expected to aid research on: 
  • Alzheimer’s disease 
  • Dementia 
  • Brainstem lesions 
  • Other neurodegenerative disorders. 
• Publicly available through the ANCHOR digital platform for global researchers and clinicians. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

The topic links dynamic developments in neuroscience with static concepts of human nervous system anatomy. UPSC may focus on:

• Functions of the brainstem, cerebrum, cerebellum, and spinal cord. 
• Medical imaging technologies such as MRI. 
• Applications of brain mapping in disease diagnosis and treatment. 

Possible Prelims Angles

• Which part of the brain controls involuntary functions such as breathing? 
• Difference between MRI and CT scan. 
• Purpose of brain atlases in neuroscience research. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272006&reg=48&lang=2

Subject: Science & Technology / Environment & Ecology (Biomimetics, Marine Biodiversity, Echinoderms, Bio-inspired Technologies)

Why in News?
Scientists have discovered a remarkable light-focusing structure in the Chocolate-Chip Sea Star (Protoreaster nodosus), revealing how its skeletal elements function similarly to optical fibres. The finding has attracted attention for its potential applications in advanced optical sensors and display technologies. 

About the Chocolate-Chip Sea Star

• Scientific name: Protoreaster nodosus. 
• Belongs to the phylum Echinodermata. 
• Commonly found in shallow tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. 
• Characterized by dark, cone-like projections resembling chocolate chips. 

Key Scientific Discovery

• Researchers found cone-shaped skeletal structures at the tips of its arms. 
• These structures act like natural optical fibres: 
  • Transmit nearly 70% of incident light. 
  • Concentrate light about 3 times at the base. 
  • Brighten light nearly 8 times within the arm. 
  • Capture light over a 120° field of view. 

Biological and Technological Significance

• The sea star’s skeleton is made of calcite ossicles (calcium carbonate structures). 
• Demonstrates biomimetics (biomimicry)—the design of technology inspired by natural systems. 
• Could inspire: 
  • Lightweight optical sensors 
  • Advanced imaging systems 
  • Energy-efficient display technologies. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

This topic links biology, physics, and engineering. UPSC frequently asks about:

• Characteristics of Echinoderms (starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers). 
• Examples of biomimicry in technology. 
• Marine organisms with unique adaptations. 

Possible Prelims Angles

• Which phylum does the chocolate-chip sea star belong to? 
• What is biomimetics? 
• Composition of echinoderm skeletons. 

Source/Reference:

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_delhi/issues/189264/OPS/GDHG42BAV.1+GT2G443MO.1.html

Subject: Science & Technology / Defence Technology / Internal Security (Military Aircraft, Air Logistics, Indigenous Defence Modernisation, Strategic Airlift Capability)

Why in News?
An Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 transport aircraft crashed during a routine sortie while landing at Jorhat Air Force Station, Assam, leading to the loss of five personnel. The incident has once again brought attention to the AN-32 fleet and its role in India’s military transport operations. 

About AN-32 Aircraft

• Developed by the Soviet design bureau Antonov. 
• A twin-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. 
• Inducted into the IAF in 1984. 
• Designed specifically for Indian operational requirements, especially high-altitude and hot-weather conditions. 

Key Features

• Operates effectively from airfields located up to 4,500 metres above sea level. 
• Payload capacity: 
  • Around 7.5 tonnes of cargo 
  • Up to 50 passengers 
  • Around 42 paratroopers 
• Extensively used in: 
  • Ladakh 
  • Arunachal Pradesh 
  • Siachen Glacier 
  • Remote border areas of the Himalayas. 

Strategic Importance

• Backbone of the IAF’s tactical airlift capability. 
• Supports: 
  • Troop transportation 
  • Logistics supply 
  • Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) 
  • Air-dropping supplies in inaccessible regions. 
• India remains the largest operator of the AN-32 fleet. 

Modernisation Efforts

• India signed an agreement with Antonov (Ukraine) to upgrade over 100 aircraft. 
• Upgrades include: 
  • Modern avionics 
  • Navigation systems 
  • Communication equipment 
  • Emergency locator transmitters. 

UPSC-Oriented Analysis

The AN-32 is important from the perspective of India’s defence logistics and border management. UPSC may link the topic with:

• Strategic importance of air transport in mountainous terrain. 
• Difference between tactical and strategic airlift. 
• Modernisation of IAF transport fleets (AN-32, C-130J, C-17 Globemaster, C-295). 

Possible Prelims Angles

• Why are turboprop aircraft preferred for short and high-altitude runways? 
• Difference between fighter, transport, and surveillance aircraft. 
• Strategic significance of air logistics in the Himalayas. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indian-air-forces-an-32-transport-aircraft-crashes-in-assams-jorhat-11630853

GS Paper III – Environment & Ecology (Renewable Energy) | GS Paper III – Economy (Energy Security)
Wind Energy; Renewable Capacity; Offshore Wind; Manufacturing; Grid Integration

Introduction

Global Wind Day is celebrated on June 15 to promote wind energy and climate action. India will host the 2026 conference in Goa under the theme “Wind Energy: From Ambition to Acceleration.” India ranks 4th globally in wind power capacity, which increased from 21.04 GW (2014) to 56.09 GW (2026). The country added a record 6.05 GW in 2025-26 and has an estimated wind potential of 695.5 GW at 120 m height.

Main Body

India’s Wind Resource Potential

Gross Wind Power Potential:

• 695.5 GW at 120 metres hub height.
• 1,163.9 GW at 150 metres hub height.

State-wise Potential at 150 Metres:

• Rajasthan: 284.2 GW.
• Gujarat: 180.8 GW.
• Maharashtra: 173.9 GW.
• Karnataka: 169.3 GW.
• Andhra Pradesh: 123.3 GW.
• Tamil Nadu: 95.1 GW.
• Madhya Pradesh: 55.4 GW.
• Telangana: 54.7 GW.

Monitoring Infrastructure:

• More than 900 wind-monitoring stations installed nationwide.
• Wind potential maps developed at 50 m, 80 m, 100 m, 120 m, and 150 m hub heights.

Installed Capacity and Growth Trajectory

Global Ranking:

• India ranks 4th globally in installed wind power capacity.

Capacity Growth:

• Installed wind capacity: 21.04 GW (March 2014) → 56.09 GW (March 2026) – 2.66-fold increase.
• An additional 28 GW under implementation.
• Highest-ever annual wind capacity addition: 6.05 GW in 2025-26 (surpassing previous record of 4.15 GW in 2024-25).

Grid Contribution:

• Nearly 45% of wind generation occurs during peak demand hours.
• Complements solar power and strengthens grid reliability.

Domestic Manufacturing and Indigenisation

Manufacturing Capacity:

• Wind turbine manufacturing capacity: 10 GW (2014) → about 24 GW (March 2026).

Indigenisation:

• 70-80% indigenisation across key components.
• Strong domestic supply chains for blades, towers, gearboxes, and other critical equipment.

Export Potential:

• Industry report “Elevating India’s Wind Turbine Exports for Global Markets” to be released at the conference.

Key Government Interventions

Viability Gap Funding (VGF):

• ₹6,853 crore approved for 1,000 MW of offshore wind projects.
• 500 MW off the coast of Gujarat; 500 MW off the coast of Tamil Nadu.

Generation Based Incentive (GBI):

• ₹500 crore disbursed during 2025-26.

Contracts for Difference (CfD):

• 500 MW pilot project launched.
• Designed to reduce price volatility and provide revenue certainty to developers.

Other Interventions:

• Task Force constituted (January 2026) to address regulatory, land, transmission, and implementation challenges.
• Dedicated wind component introduced under Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs).
• Green Energy Open Access Rules for direct procurement by industries.
• Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) implemented.
• Transparent bidding guidelines and Late Payment Surcharge Rules.

Hybrid and Round-the-Clock (RTC) Projects:

• Promotion of hybrid and RTC renewable energy projects to improve grid efficiency.

Priorities for Wind Energy

• Expanding wind deployment into emerging states: Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha.
• Launching India’s offshore wind sector through identified leasing areas in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
• Integrating wind power into Round-the-Clock (RTC) renewable energy solutions through storage-linked business models.
• Modernising the grid and deploying AI-based forecasting tools for renewable energy management.
• Strengthening domestic manufacturing across the entire wind energy value chain.

Global Partnerships

India–United Kingdom:

• India-UK Offshore Wind Taskforce launched (February 2026) under Vision 2035 and Fourth India-UK Energy Dialogue.
• Focus: market design, port infrastructure, supply chains, blended finance.

India–Denmark:

• Cooperation agreement signed in 2019 for offshore wind capacity building.
• MoU renewed in May 2025.
• Cooperation now includes power system modelling, variable renewable energy integration, joint expert training.

India–Belgium:

• At WEF 2026, cooperation reaffirmed in offshore wind, R&D, and green taxonomy.

Targets and Future Outlook

Targets:

• 100 GW wind capacity by 2030.
• 156 GW wind capacity by 2036.

The Road Ahead:

• Realising this opportunity requires faster project execution, stronger transmission infrastructure, improved forecasting capabilities, and continued policy support.
• Expanding into new geographies, integrating wind with storage and RTC power solutions.
• Strengthening domestic manufacturing and export competitiveness.
• Positioning wind energy as a driver of industrial development and economic growth.

Challenges:

• Only 56.09 GW installed against 1,163.9 GW potential (less than 5% tapped).
• 28 GW under implementation – execution remains slow.
• Offshore wind (1,000 MW VGF) is still in early stages; no operational capacity yet.
• Grid integration and AI-based forecasting still evolving.
• Emerging states (MP, Telangana, Odisha) need focused development.

The Core Reality:

• India has vast wind resource potential (1,163.9 GW at 150 metres).
• The sector has grown significantly (2.66-fold since 2014) with record addition of 6.05 GW in 2025-26.
• Domestic manufacturing is strong (24 GW capacity; 70-80% indigenisation).
• Offshore wind is being launched with ₹6,853 crore VGF.
• Global partnerships with UK, Denmark, and Belgium are accelerating technology transfer.
• The next phase requires faster execution, grid modernisation, and expansion into new geographies.

Conclusion

India ranks 4th globally in installed wind power capacity, which rose from 21.04 GW (2014) to 56.09 GW (2026), including a record 6.05 GW addition in 2025-26. Wind potential is estimated at 695.5 GW at 120 m and 1,163.9 GW at 150 m, mainly across eight states. Domestic manufacturing capacity has increased to 24 GW with 70-80% indigenisation. India targets 100 GW wind capacity by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036, supported by offshore wind, GBI, and CfD initiatives.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

2030. India has achieved significant growth in wind energy but tapped only a small share of its vast potential. Discuss the challenges and measures needed to achieve the 100 GW target by 2030. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272630&reg=3&lang=1

GS Paper III – Economy (Inflation; Monetary Policy) | GS Paper III – Energy Security
CPI Inflation; WPI; Producer Price Index (PPI); Food Inflation; Fuel Prices; Exchange Rate

Introduction

India’s retail inflation rose to 3.93% in May, driven mainly by higher food and fuel prices. Food inflation increased to 4.78%, while transport costs surged due to repeated fuel price hikes and a sharp rise in commercial LPG prices. Although inflation remains within the RBI’s 2–6% tolerance band, a quick decline appears unlikely.

Main Body

Headline Inflation Trends

Retail Inflation (CPI) – May 2026:

• 3.93% (highest in current CPI series; roughly 15-month high compared with previous series).
• Remains below RBI’s 4% target and within 2-6% tolerance band.

Food Inflation (May 2026):

• Rose to 4.78% from 4.20% in April.
• Driven by pass-through of higher fuel and transport costs.

Core Inflation (Excluding Food and Fuel) – May 2026:

• Remained relatively contained at around 3.8-3.9%.
• Largely unchanged from recent months.
• Provides some comfort to the Centre.

Fuel Price Pass-Through

Petrol and Diesel:

• Four tranches of price increases beginning in mid-May.
• Transport services for goods surged by 7.63% in May (after a marginal contraction in April).

Commercial LPG:

• Sharp rise of about ₹1,300 per 19-kg cylinder (over 75% increase since February).
• Reflected in “restaurants and accommodation services” category inflation at 5.75% (second-highest division after personal care).

Domestic LPG:

• Second price revision by ₹29 earlier this month.
• Will find a fuller expression in June’s consumer food price inflation.

Personal Care and Miscellaneous Goods:

• Inflation reached 18.46% (highest division), reflecting soaring precious metals prices.

Wholesale and Producer Price Data (Upcoming)

New WPI Series:

• First under the new WPI series due later this month.

Producer Price Index (PPI):

• India’s first PPI to be released alongside WPI.
• Will reveal how much of the price shock producers and wholesalers continue to absorb.

RBI’s Monetary Policy Stance

Neutral Stance Retained:

• RBI retained its neutral stance at its latest monetary policy review.
• Signals concern over the possibility of further price pressures.

Inflation Outlook:

• May’s inflation (3.93%) below target (4%) but rising.
• RBI cautious despite remaining within tolerance band (2-6%).

Exchange Rate and Rupee Performance

Rupee Depreciation:

• Asia’s worst-performing currency since the US-Israeli conflict with Iran escalated.
• Briefly approached ₹97 to the dollar in May.

RBI Intervention:

• Intervention in foreign exchange market through dollar sales helped shore up the rupee.
• Currently trading closer to ₹95-₹96.

Outlook: Why Rapid Decline in Inflation Appears Unlikely

Geopolitical Uncertainty:

• Signs of US-Iran rapprochement and uninterrupted shipping through Hormuz.
• However, uncertainty persists over whether Iran may impose fees or restrictions on transit through the waterway.
• Could keep fuel prices elevated for energy-importing nations such as India.

OMC Loss Recovery:

• Even if crude prices soften, oil marketing companies are unlikely to immediately reverse retail price increases.
• OMCs seek to recover losses incurred during the period of price freeze.

LPG Price Stickiness:

• LPG prices may remain sticky.
• Commercial LPG up over 75% since February; domestic LPG second revision in June.

The Verdict:

• Prospects for a durable peace may have improved.
• However, a rapid decline in inflation appears unlikely.

Conclusion

India’s retail inflation rose to 3.93% in May 2026, driven by higher food, fuel, transport, and LPG prices. Food inflation reached 4.78%, while transport costs surged after repeated fuel price hikes. Commercial LPG prices sharply increased, pushing restaurant inflation to 5.75%. Despite contained core inflation, rupee weakness and continued global energy uncertainties make a rapid decline in inflation unlikely.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

1. India’s retail inflation has risen due to higher food and fuel prices. Examine the major drivers of the current inflationary trend and explain why inflationary pressures may persist even if the West Asia conflict eases. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/fuller-expression-on-indias-inflation/article71101402.ece