Subject: International Relations / Defence & Security (Military Exercises, UN Peacekeeping Operations, India–Mongolia Relations)

Why in News?

A contingent of the Indian Army is participating in Exercise Khaan Quest 2026, a multinational military exercise being conducted in Mongolia from 14–28 June 2026. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability among participating nations for United Nations peacekeeping operations (UNPKOs).

About Exercise Khaan Quest

• Khaan Quest is an annual multinational military exercise hosted by Mongolia. 
• Initiated in 2003 as a bilateral exercise between Mongolia and the United States. 
• It evolved into a multinational peacekeeping exercise from 2006 onwards. 
• The exercise is designed to improve coordination among armed forces participating in UN peacekeeping missions. 

Objectives of the Exercise

• Enhance interoperability among participating militaries. 
• Train troops for UN Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKOs). 
• Strengthen cooperation in multinational military environments. 
• Improve capabilities in humanitarian assistance and disaster response. 
• Promote regional peace and security. 

Key Features of Khaan Quest 2026

• Hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces. 
• Participation from military contingents of multiple countries. 
• Focus on: 
  • Peacekeeping operations. 
  • Counter-insurgency scenarios. 
  • Protection of civilians. 
  • Checkpoint operations. 
  • Humanitarian assistance. 
  • Disaster relief operations. 
• Includes command-post and field-training components. 

India’s Participation

• The Indian contingent is represented by personnel from the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. 
• Participation reflects India’s continued commitment to: 
  • UN peacekeeping. 
  • Capacity building with friendly foreign countries. 
  • Strengthening defence cooperation with Mongolia and other partner nations. 

India and UN Peacekeeping

• India is among the largest contributors to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. 
• More than 2,90,000 Indian peacekeepers have served in various UN missions since independence. 
• Indian troops have participated in missions across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. 

India–Mongolia Relations

• Mongolia is often described as India’s “Spiritual Neighbour” due to historical Buddhist linkages. 
• Relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2015. 
• Cooperation areas include: 
  • Defence and security. 
  • Mining and energy. 
  • Culture and Buddhism. 
  • Capacity building. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

• Khaan Quest is important because UPSC frequently asks questions on military exercises and participating countries. 
• The exercise also links with topics such as UN Peacekeeping Operations, India’s defence diplomacy, and India–Mongolia relations.

Source/Reference

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2274656&reg=48&lang=2

Subject: Agriculture / Science & Technology (Seed Technology, Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Agricultural Biotechnology, ICAR Institutions)

Why in News?

The ICAR–Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (ICAR-IIOR), Hyderabad has developed a patented Smart Seed Coating Technology aimed at improving seed quality, crop establishment, and resilience against climate-induced stresses. The technology has shown significant yield improvements in field demonstrations and is being promoted for large-scale adoption. 

What is Smart Seed Coating Technology?

• It is a biopolymer-based, biodegradable seed enhancement platform developed by ICAR-IIOR. 
• The technology creates a protective multilayer coating around seeds. 
• It integrates multiple inputs into a single coating, including: 
  • Beneficial microorganisms 
  • Micronutrients 
  • Plant growth promoters 
  • Crop protection agents 
  • Biostimulants 

How Does It Work?

• Seeds are encapsulated with eco-friendly biopolymers. 
• After sowing, the coating interacts with soil moisture. 
• Nutrients and beneficial biological agents are released gradually near the root zone. 
• This creates a favorable microenvironment for germination and early plant growth. 

Key Features

• Fully biodegradable and environmentally friendly. 
• Delivers multiple crop inputs through a single treatment. 
• Customizable for cereals, pulses, oilseeds, millets, cotton, vegetables, and horticultural crops. 
• Enhances tolerance to drought, temperature stress, pests, and diseases. 

Benefits Observed

• Multi-location trials reported productivity gains ranging from 12% to 37%. 
• Demonstrations in Telangana recorded yield increases of nearly 30% in groundnut and soybean. 
• Improved germination, root development, and input-use efficiency. 
• Reduced cultivation costs and increased farm profitability. 

About ICAR-IIOR

• Located in Hyderabad, Telangana. 
• Functions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. 
• Nodal institute for research on oilseed crops in India. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

• The technology links current developments with static topics such as seed treatment, sustainable agriculture, biotechnology applications in farming, and climate adaptation strategies. 
• UPSC may ask about the institution involved, the role of biopolymers, or the advantages of seed coating technologies in modern agriculture.

Source/Reference

https://ddindia.co.in/2026/06/icar-iior-unveils-smart-seed-coating-technology-to-boost-crop-yields-and-climate-resilience/

Subject: Science & Technology / Environment / Economy (Green Hydrogen, Renewable Energy Transition, National Green Hydrogen Mission, Energy Certification Frameworks)

Why in News?

The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy recently launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India under the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI). Developed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the portal aims to ensure transparent certification and regulatory compliance for green hydrogen producers. 

What is the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI)?

• Launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in April 2025. 
• Provides a national framework for certifying hydrogen as “Green Hydrogen.” 
• Evaluates greenhouse gas emissions across the entire hydrogen production cycle. 
• Ensures that only hydrogen produced using renewable energy and within prescribed emission limits can be officially labelled as green hydrogen. 

Objectives of the Scheme

• Establish transparency, traceability, and credibility in the green hydrogen market. 
• Facilitate domestic and international trade in green hydrogen. 
• Support India’s transition towards low-carbon energy systems. 
• Enable exports by aligning production with globally accepted sustainability standards. 

Green Hydrogen Certification Portal

• Acts as a digital platform for certification and compliance. 
• Enables producers to apply for certification and verify emission standards. 
• Strengthens monitoring and regulatory oversight of the hydrogen value chain. 

National Green Hydrogen Mission

• Approved with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore up to 2029–30. 
• Targets: 
  • Production of 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030. 
  • Addition of 125 GW of renewable energy capacity. 
  • Investments of about ₹8 lakh crore. 
  • Reduction of nearly 50 MMT of CO₂ emissions annually. 

Related Developments

• Standards for Green Ammonia and Green Methanol were finalized in 2026. 
• More than 120 hydrogen-related standards have been adopted or published by agencies such as BIS and PESO. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

• This topic connects static concepts such as hydrogen production, renewable energy, carbon neutrality, and energy transition with current policy initiatives. 
• UPSC may ask about the ministry administering the scheme, the distinction between green and grey hydrogen, or the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2274212&reg=3&lang=1

Subject: Geography / Environment & Ecology / Economy (Hydropower Projects, River Systems of Northeast India, Renewable Energy, Environmental Impact Assessment)

Why in News?

NHPC Limited recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh for the development of the 3,097 MW Etalin Hydroelectric Project (EHEP) in Dibang Valley district. The project is expected to become India’s largest hydropower project upon completion. 

About the Etalin Hydroelectric Project

• Located in Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Proposed on the Dri and Tangon Rivers, tributaries of the Dibang River. 
• The Dibang River is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River. 
• Installed capacity: 3,097 MW. 
• Developed by NHPC Ltd. 
• Estimated investment: around ₹30,000 crore. 

Key Features

• Planned as a Run-of-the-River (RoR) hydropower project. 
• To be implemented under the Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) model. 
• Lease period: 40 years from the Commercial Operation Date (COD). 
• NHPC will undertake: 
  • Preliminary investigations 
  • Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) 
  • Detailed Project Report (DPR) 
  • Financing, construction, operation and maintenance. 

Strategic Importance

Energy Security

• Will significantly boost India’s renewable energy capacity. 
• Provides stable and dispatchable power compared to solar and wind energy. 

Northeast Development

• Harnesses Arunachal Pradesh’s vast hydropower potential. 
• Expected to generate employment and infrastructure development in the region. 

Climate Goals

• Supports India’s clean energy transition and decarbonization efforts. 

Environmental Concerns

The project has been one of India’s most debated hydropower proposals because:

• It lies within the ecologically sensitive Eastern Himalayas. 
• Large forest diversion has been proposed. 
• The area is known for rich biodiversity and endemic species. 
• Concerns have been raised regarding wildlife habitats and cumulative impacts on the Dibang basin. 

About the Dibang River

• Originates in the high Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh near the India–Tibet region. 
• Joins the Lohit and Siang rivers in Assam to form the Brahmaputra system. 
• The basin is known for high hydropower potential. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

The Etalin Project is important because it links hydropower development, river geography, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and environmental governance. UPSC may ask about:

• The river basin in which the project is located. 
• Difference between Run-of-the-River and storage-based hydropower projects. 
• Major tributaries of the Brahmaputra. 
• Hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh. 

Source/Reference

https://northeasttoday.in/northeast/arunachal-pradesh/arunachal-nhpc-ink-deal-for-3097-mw-etalin-hydro-project/

Subject: Science & Technology / Governance (Internet Infrastructure, Domain Name System (DNS), Internet Governance, Digital India)

Why in News?

The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) celebrated its 23rd Foundation Day (19 June 2026) and highlighted its role in strengthening India’s digital ecosystem. The event emphasized NIXI’s contribution to faster internet access, domestic traffic routing, digital sovereignty, and internet governance capacity-building. 

What is NIXI?

The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is a not-for-profit organization established in 2003 under the aegis of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It was created to facilitate the exchange of domestic internet traffic within India rather than routing it through servers located abroad. 

Objectives of NIXI

• Keep domestic internet traffic within India. 
• Reduce dependence on international bandwidth. 
• Improve internet speed and reduce latency. 
• Enhance security and reliability of internet services. 
• Promote internet penetration and digital inclusion. 

Major Functions of NIXI

Internet Exchange Points (IXPs)

• Provides a neutral platform where Internet Service Providers (ISPs) exchange domestic internet traffic directly. 
• Operates numerous Internet Exchange Points across India. 
• Reduces routing costs and improves Quality of Service (QoS). 

INRegistry

• Manages India’s .IN country-code top-level domain (ccTLD). 
• Also administers .भारत (.Bharat) domains in Indian languages. 

IRINN (Indian Registry for Internet Names and Numbers)

• Allocates: 
  • IPv4 addresses 
  • IPv6 addresses 
  • Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs) 
• Supports growth of India’s internet ecosystem. 

Internet Governance Initiatives

• Runs the Internet Governance Internship & Capacity Building Scheme (IGICBS) to develop expertise among students and professionals. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

NIXI is important from the perspective of Digital India, internet governance, cybersecurity, data localization, and digital sovereignty. UPSC can ask questions on:

• Difference between NIXI, ICANN, and IRINN. 
• Meaning of ccTLD and Internet Exchange Point. 
• Functions of NIXI regarding .IN domain management and IP address allocation. 

Source/Reference

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2274704&reg=48&lang=1

Subject: Environment & Ecology / Science & Technology (Biodiversity, Species Discovery, Western Ghats, Biological Pest Control)

Why in News?

Researchers have discovered a new species of predatory wasp named Spilomena malabarica from the Malabar region of Kerala in the Western Ghats. The species is noteworthy for its role as a natural predator of crop pests and adds to the rich biodiversity of one of India’s most important ecological hotspots.

About Spilomena malabarica

• A newly identified species of wasp belonging to the genus Spilomena. 
• Discovered in Kerala’s Western Ghats. 
• Named “malabarica” after the historic Malabar region. 
• Belongs to the family Crabronidae, a group of solitary hunting wasps. 

Key Characteristics

• Small-sized solitary wasp. 
• Predatory in nature. 
• Feeds on tiny insects and pests, particularly those harmful to crops. 
• Constructs nests in natural cavities and crevices. 

Ecological Importance

Natural Pest Control

• Acts as a biological control agent by preying on agricultural pests. 
• Reduces dependence on chemical pesticides. 
• Supports sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. 

Indicator of Biodiversity

• Discovery highlights the rich but still underexplored biodiversity of the Western Ghats. 
• Indicates the presence of healthy and functioning ecosystems. 

About the Western Ghats

• One of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity. 
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
• Extends across six states: 
  • Gujarat (small stretch) 
  • Maharashtra 
  • Goa 
  • Karnataka 
  • Kerala 
  • Tamil Nadu 
• Known for high levels of endemism in plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and insects. 

About Biological Pest Control

• A method of controlling pests using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens. 
• Considered an environmentally sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. 
• Important component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). 

Advantages

• Eco-friendly. 
• Reduces pesticide residues. 
• Conserves biodiversity. 
• Improves long-term agricultural sustainability. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

The discovery is important because UPSC frequently asks questions on newly discovered species, biodiversity hotspots, and biological pest control mechanisms. The topic also links environmental conservation with sustainable agriculture.

Static–Dynamic Linkage

• Western Ghats biodiversity. 
• Biological control agents in agriculture. 
• Insect diversity and ecosystem services. 
• Conservation of endemic species. 

Source/Reference

https://inshorts.com/en/amp_news/a-new-pest-eating-wasp-discovered-in-kerala-1781763151218

Mimeusemia kali: New Forester Moth Species Discovered in the Western Ghats

Subject: Environment & Ecology (Biodiversity, Species Discovery, Western Ghats, Protected Areas)

Why in News?

Researchers have discovered a new species of forester moth named Mimeusemia kali from the Kali Tiger Reserve in Karnataka. This is the first new species of forester moth reported from India in nearly three decades, highlighting the rich and still unexplored biodiversity of the Western Ghats.

About Mimeusemia kali

• A newly discovered species of Forester Moth. 
• Belongs to the family Zygaenidae. 
• Named after the Kali Tiger Reserve, where it was discovered. 
• Identified through detailed morphological and genetic analysis. 

Key Characteristics

• Exhibits metallic coloration typical of forester moths. 
• Day-flying moth unlike many nocturnal moth species. 
• Associated with forest ecosystems of the Western Ghats. 
• Contributes to ecological processes such as pollination and food-web dynamics. 

About Forester Moths (Family: Zygaenidae)

• Commonly known as Forester Moths or Burnet Moths. 
• Mostly active during the daytime. 
• Known for bright metallic colours. 
• Many species possess chemical defenses that deter predators. 
• Distributed mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. 

About Kali Tiger Reserve

• Located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. 
• Lies within the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot. 
• Earlier known as Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve. 
• Named after the Kali River. 

Important Fauna

• Tiger 
• Leopard 
• Black Panther 
• Asian Elephant 
• Gaur 
• Hornbills 
• King Cobra 

Ecological Significance

• One of the largest protected forest landscapes in southern India. 
• Rich in endemic flora and fauna. 
• Serves as an important wildlife corridor in the Western Ghats. 

Why is the Discovery Important?

Biodiversity Significance

• Indicates that several insect groups in India remain scientifically undocumented. 
• Strengthens the ecological importance of the Western Ghats. 

Conservation Relevance

• Helps improve understanding of species distribution and ecosystem health. 
• Supports evidence-based conservation planning in protected areas. 

Scientific Importance

• Expands knowledge of the family Zygaenidae in South Asia. 
• Highlights the role of taxonomic research in biodiversity conservation. 

Western Ghats: A Biodiversity Hotspot

• Recognized as one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. 
• Extends across six Indian states. 
• Home to thousands of endemic species. 
• Several regions are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis

• UPSC frequently asks questions on newly discovered species, protected areas, biodiversity hotspots, and endemic fauna. 
• The discovery of Mimeusemia kali is important because it combines all these themes and reinforces the significance of the Western Ghats as a centre of biological diversity.

Source/Reference

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/after-30-years-new-forester-moth-species-discovered-in-karnatakas-kali-tiger-reserve/articleshow/131812083.cms

GS Paper II – Governance & International Relations | GS Paper III – Health

Introduction

The International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” (स्वस्थ आयु के लिए योग), reflects the growing recognition of yoga as a tool for preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyles, and active ageing. Over the last decade, IDY has evolved from a UN-designated observance into a global wellness movement, strengthening India’s cultural diplomacy while promoting holistic health worldwide. 

Why is IDY 2026 Significant?

Promoting Healthy Ageing

• Focuses on improving mobility, cognitive health, mental well-being, and functional independence among ageing populations. 
• Addresses rising challenges of: 
  • Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) 
  • Lifestyle disorders 
  • Mental health concerns. 

Strengthening Preventive Healthcare

• Aligns with the shift from curative to preventive healthcare. 
• Supports the vision of: 
  • Ayushman Bharat 
  • Fit India Movement 
  • National Health Policy’s wellness-based approach. 

India’s Soft Power Success

• UN adopted June 21 as IDY in 2014 with support from 175 countries. 
• Yoga was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2016. 
• Today IDY is celebrated in over 190 countries. 

Key Initiatives under IDY 2026

Yoga 365

• Encourages yoga as a daily practice rather than a one-day event. 
• Promotes integration into schools, workplaces, homes, and communities. 

Targeted Yoga Protocols

• Introduction of 10 Yoga Protocols for: 
  • Diabetes 
  • Hypertension 
  • Asthma 
  • Mental health issues 
  • Senior citizens, women, children, and de-addiction programmes. 

Technology-Driven Outreach

• Yoga Sangam Portal for registrations and participation. 
• Yoga Park Portal for mapping dedicated yoga spaces. 

Innovative Initiatives

• “Yoga for Air Travel” protocol for long-distance travellers. 
• Nationwide awareness campaigns and MyGov competitions. 

UPSC-Relevant Dimensions

Health Governance

• Reduces healthcare burden through preventive interventions. 
• Complements WHO’s emphasis on healthy ageing and wellness. 

International Relations

• Enhances India’s cultural diplomacy and global leadership in traditional knowledge systems. 
• Strengthens people-to-people connections across nations. 

Economic Dimension

• Supports wellness tourism, AYUSH industry, and holistic healthcare markets. 

Social Dimension

• Promotes community participation, mental well-being, and social cohesion. 

Challenges

• Scientific validation and standardisation of therapeutic claims. 
• Limited awareness in rural and underserved regions. 
• Need for trained yoga professionals. 
• Risk of commercialization overshadowing traditional philosophy. 

Way Forward

• Integrate yoga into primary healthcare and school curricula. 
• Expand evidence-based research through AYUSH institutions. 
• Promote workplace and community wellness programmes. 
• Strengthen global collaborations through WHO and international yoga centres. 
• Focus on inclusivity for elderly, women, and vulnerable groups. 

Conclusion

The evolution of International Day of Yoga from an annual celebration to the Yoga 365 movement signifies India’s effort to mainstream preventive healthcare and holistic well-being. By combining cultural heritage, public health, and global outreach, yoga has emerged as an important instrument for achieving healthier societies and strengthening India’s soft-power influence in the 21st century. 

UPSC Mains Practice Question

1. International Day of Yoga has evolved from a cultural observance into a global movement for preventive healthcare and wellness. Analyse its significance for public health, India’s soft power, and sustainable development. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2275594&reg=3&lang=1

GS Paper III – Economy, Infrastructure & Regional Development

Introduction

India’s North-East, comprising eight states collectively known as Ashtalakshmi, is undergoing rapid transformation through improved connectivity, social infrastructure, and strategic investments. Driven by the Act East Policy, PM-DevINE, and major infrastructure projects, the region is increasingly being viewed as a bridge between India and Southeast Asia, contributing to national integration, economic growth, and border security.

Significance of North-East Development

Economic Importance

• Rich in hydropower, oil, gas, forests, bamboo, and tourism potential. 
• Improved connectivity boosts trade, investment, and employment. 
• Supports regional economic integration and reduces development disparities. 

Strategic Importance

• Shares borders with China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. 
• Serves as the gateway for India’s Act East Policy. 
• Strengthens border infrastructure and national security. 

Social Importance

• Better access to healthcare, education, housing, and drinking water. 
• Enhances inclusion of remote and tribal communities. 

Key Drivers of Transformation

Connectivity Revolution

• Expansion of highways, railways, airports, and inland waterways. 
• Landmark projects: Bogibeel Bridge, Sela Tunnel, regional airports under UDAN. 
• Digital connectivity through BharatNet and telecom expansion. 

Governance Initiatives

• PM-DevINE, NESIDS, and North Eastern Council (NEC). 
• Focus on infrastructure, livelihoods, tourism, and social development. 

Energy and Green Growth

• Vast hydropower potential. 
• Emerging opportunities in renewable energy and sustainable development. 

Key Challenges

Economic

• Limited industrialisation and private investment. 
• High logistics costs and small market size. 

Social

• Youth unemployment and skill gaps. 
• Uneven development across states. 

Environmental

• Infrastructure projects in ecologically fragile regions. 
• Concerns regarding biodiversity loss and displacement. 

Security and Governance

• Legacy of insurgency and border management challenges. 
• Administrative capacity constraints in project implementation. 

Way Forward

• Develop economic corridors alongside transport infrastructure. 
• Promote tourism, agro-processing, bamboo, and organic farming. 
• Strengthen skill development and entrepreneurship. 
• Ensure environmentally sustainable infrastructure. 
• Enhance cross-border trade and connectivity under the Act East Policy. 
• Foster cooperative federalism between Centre, States, and local institutions. 

Conclusion

The North-East is gradually shifting from a peripheral region to a strategic growth hub. Sustained investments in connectivity, human capital, and sustainable development can transform Ashtalakshmi into a key driver of Viksit Bharat 2047, while strengthening national integration and India’s regional influence.

UPSC Mains Practice Question

1. The North-East has emerged as a critical pillar of India’s economic and strategic vision. Analyse the opportunities and challenges in transforming the region into a gateway for growth and regional integration. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2275554&reg=3&lang=1