UPSC Daily Current Affairs| Prelimbits 25-06-2025

Tomahawk missiles

Prelims : Current events of National and International importance

Why in News?

As part of Operation Midnight Hammer, the US used Tomahawk missiles to strike Iran’s nuclear sites.

Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) is a long-range, subsonic cruise missile.
Developed by - US Navy.
It is launched from ships or submarines through a Vertical Launch System and used for precision strikes on land-based targets.
Features – It can fly at low altitudes, avoiding radar detection, and are guided by advanced GPS, inertial navigation, and terrain contour mapping.
This makes them highly accurate, with a margin of error of just 10 meters.
They are built to follow a non-linear path, reducing the chance of interception.
These missiles have a range between 1,000 and 1,500 miles (1,550 to 2,500 km).
It measures 18.3 feet long, weighs 3,200 pounds (4,400 with booster).
The missile is also designed to carry a 1,000-pound conventional warhead or cluster munitions.
First used during Operation Dust Storm in the 1991 Gulf War.
The same weapon was used in the 2017 strikes against Syria.

Reference

Hindustan Times | Tomahawk missiles

Integration of Rare Blood Donor Registry with e-Rakt Kosh

Why in News?

The Central Health Ministry plans to integrate the Rare Donor Registry of India (RDRI) with the e-Rakt Kosh platform.

e-Rakt Kosh – It is a centralized, web-based blood bank management system under the National Health Mission (NHM) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Developed by – Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
Key features – It provides real-time information on blood stock availability across registered blood banks.
It helps in donor management, blood inventory management, and tracking of blood donations.
It integrates the state with national-level health systems to streamline blood bank operations.
It supports both voluntary donations and rare blood group donor identification, soon to be enhanced with integration of the Rare Donor Registry.
Rare Donor Registry of India (RDRI) – It is maintained by ICMR - National Institute of Immunohaematology (NIIH) with data of over 4,000 carefully screened donors tested for 300+ rare blood markers.
The integration will allow those with rare blood groups to access a centralized system developed under the National Health Mission, providing details on blood banks, blood availability, and blood donation camps across the country.
Supporting Innovations – DNA-based rapid testing kits (multiplex PCR) to detect rare blood types.
Point of Care (POC) testing – For genetic blood disorders like sickle cell anaemia and hemophilia, reducing diagnostic costs.

Significance

It aims to improve accessibility, traceability, and timely availability of rare blood types across India.
It enables faster access to rare blood types like Bombay Blood Group, P-null, Rh-null.
It supports safer transfusions for patients with complex conditions like thalassemia and sickle cell anaemia.
It ensures nationwide traceability and stock management for rare blood donors and blood banks.

Reference

The Hindu| Integration of rare blood donor registry with e-Rakt Kosh

Dravidogecko Coonoor

Why in News?

A new species of gecko, Dravidogecko coonoor, has been discovered in the Coonoor Hills, Upper Nilgiris, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu.

Scientific Name – Dravidogecko coonoor
Family – Gekkonidae (Geckos)
Endemic to – Coonoor Hills, Upper Nilgiris, Western Ghats.
It brings the total known Dravidogecko species in the Western Ghats to nine.

Geckos

Geckos – They are small to medium-sized lizards belonging to the family Gekkonidae.
They are known for their ability to climb vertical surfaces and ceilings, by specialised toe pads.
India hosts a rich diversity of geckos, particularly in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats, Northeast India, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Notable Indian genera:
- Hemidactylus (common house geckos)
- Cyrtodactylus (bent-toed geckos)
- Dravidogecko (endemic to Western Ghats)

Habitat – It is found in high-elevation regions of the Western Ghats, specifically around Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.
It prefers montane forest edges, plantations, and urban areas like walls of buildings, tree bark, crevices, and vegetation near human settlements.
It occurs in matrix habitats a mix of fragmented forest patches and monoculture plantations amidst human habitation.
Ecological significance – It is unique to the high-elevation regions of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.
It controls insect populations, especially pests like mosquitoes and cockroaches.
It is the prey for birds, snakes, and larger lizards—important in food webs.
Physical features – A small to medium-sized gecko and distinct from its close relatives by subtle morphological differences, noted during field studies.
It displays typical gecko features like adhesive toe pads suited for climbing.

Threats
Habitat fragmentation – Due to urbanisation, expansion of tea/coffee plantations.
Deforestation – Clearing of forest patches for human activities.
Climate Change – Potential impact on montane ecosystems affecting species distribution.

Reference

The Hindu| Dravidogecko coonoor

All-India Income Distribution Survey

Why in News?

Recently the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will conduct India's first dedicated Household Income Survey in 2026.

First All-India income distribution survey – It will be the first dedicated nationwide survey focused specifically on household income distribution and welfare.
Aim – To get an accurate picture of household income levels and patterns and covers both urban and rural households.
Guided by Technical Expert Group (TEG) – A Technical Expert Group (TEG) has been set up under Surjit Bhalla, former IMF Executive Director, to guide the process.
It will finalise concepts, definitions, sampling design, methodology, etc.
Focus on data-driven policy making – The data will aid in welfare policy formulation and targeted interventions.
It helps assess income inequality and socio-economic disparities.
Assessment of technology impact – Survey will explore how adoption of technology affects household income (e.g., digital platforms, remote work, gig economy).
Incorporating global best practices – Methodologies will be aligned with successful surveys from countries like Australia, the USA, Canada, and South Africa.
Comprehensive Coverage of Income Components – It will gather information from all sources such as wages, self-employment income, agricultural income, remittances, pensions, etc.
Learning from past attempts – Earlier efforts in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1983-84 faced challenges in reliable data collection.
The current approach is designed to overcome these limitations.
Emphasis on reliable and robust estimate – The current estimates focus on ensuring income estimates are consistent with consumption and savings data.
The use of advanced statistical tools for estimation and error minimisation.
Adoption of advanced survey tools and modern sampling design.
Oversight to ensure reliability, transparency, and global alignment.

Significance of the Survey

Reliable data on income distribution – It provides the first authentic, large-scale dataset on household income levels, distribution patterns, and disparities across India.
Fills data gaps – India lacks comprehensive, reliable income distribution data for households.
Supports policy making – It will aid in evidence-based, data-driven policy decisions on welfare, taxation, and inequality.
It helps to assess the impact of technology adoption on household incomes (wages).
Helps assess economic inequality – It offers an accurate picture of income inequality and the gap between rich and poor, aiding in framing policies for inclusive growth.
It facilitates India’s progress monitoring towards international commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Strengthens economic planning – It aids in understanding consumption, savings, and investment patterns linked to income levels.

Reference

The Times of India| All-India Income Distribution Survey

B-2 Stealth Bomber

Why in news?

Recently, the United States used B-2 bombers to target Iranian nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.

B-2 Stealth Bomber – It is an American heavy strategic bomber that uses low-observable stealth technology that can penetrate dense anti-aircraft defences.
It entered service in 1997, and considered as a backbone of US strategic deterrence
It is built by Northrop Grumman, which is a U.S based global aerospace, defense and security company.
It is operated exclusively by the United States Air Force.
Most expensive aircraft – The cost of a single B-2 Stealth Bomber is estimated to be around $2.1 billion (USD).
Advanced long-range bomber – The B-2 Spirit is a long-range, heavy-payload stealth bomber.
Stealth technology – It has extremely low radar visibility due to its flying-wing design, radar-absorbent materials, and reduced infrared signature.
Its radar cross-section is comparable to that of a small bird (around 0.001 square meters).
Operational capabilities – It can travel up to 6,000 nautical miles without refuelling.
All-altitude capability – It is capable of operating at nay altitude in precision and also high-altitude operations.
Massive payload capacity – It can carry conventional and nuclear weapons, including the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) or bunker-buster bombs.
It is the only aircraft capable of carrying Massive Ordnance Penetrator (Bunker Buster bombs).

Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) or Bunker Buster Bombs are designed to destroy deeply buried, hardened bunkers like those protecting nuclear facilities.

Other key features

Flying-wing design with no tail.
Range of ~6,000 nautical miles with time period of 44000 hours (extendable with mid-air refueling)
Reduced infrared signature for minimal heat detection

Reference

The Hindustan Times| B-2 Stealth Bomber

One Liners 25-06-2025

History, Art and Culture

Murshidabad Falls Again

On June 24, 1763, the East India Company, led by Major John Adams, recaptured Murshidabad, re-installing Mir Jafar as the puppet Nawab of Bengal.

Critical Development - This capture was pivotal in the Company's struggle for Bengal, following Mir Jafar's initial installation post-Plassey (1757) and subsequent deposition in 1760.
Mir Qasim's Resistance - Mir Qasim, Mir Jafar's successor, challenged British supremacy by curbing trade abuses and strengthening his administration, leading to conflict.
Decisive Victory - Major Adams' campaigns against Mir Qasim culminated in the June 24, 1763, recapture of Murshidabad, effectively crushing Mir Qasim's resistance.
Mir Jafar's Second Reign - Mir Jafar's return solidified the Company's control; he was a mere figurehead, with real power held by the British.
Cementing British Power - This event deeply entrenched the East India Company's authority in Bengal, setting the stage for direct British rule and significant exploitation of the region.

Gandhi and Cabinet Mission

On June 24, 1946, Mahatma Gandhi was deeply involved with the Cabinet Mission Plan, a period of intense negotiations for India's independence.

Mission's Arrival - The Cabinet Mission arrived in March 1946.
Proposing a - Three-tier federal structure and rejecting Pakistan, but suggesting provincial "groupings" for Muslim-majority regions.
Congress's Stance - On June 24, 1946, the Congress formally accepted the Mission's long-term plan and the Constituent Assembly, crucially rejecting compulsory provincial grouping.
Gandhi's Influence - Gandhi, a moral advisor to Congress, strongly influenced this stance. His belief in a united India and concerns about compulsory grouping leading to partition were paramount.
Role in Negotiations - While not a direct negotiator, Gandhi's emphasis on non-violence and distrust of communal strife significantly impacted Congress's decisions.
Path to Partition - The Congress's qualified acceptance on June 24th eventually led to disagreements, contributing to the Mission's failure to preserve a united India and setting the stage for partition.

Geography

Flash Flood in Balasore

Over 50,000 people in Balasore, Odisha, were affected by a flash flood from the Subarnarekha River, caused by heavy rain and water release from Chandil Dam.

Subarnarekha River Origin - The Subarnarekha River, meaning "Streak of Gold," originates near Ranchi, Jharkhand, and flows through Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha.
Key Tributaries & Mouth - Notable tributaries include the Kharkai. It's an independent river system, emptying into the Bay of Bengal near Talsari, Odisha.
River Features - The river is 395 km long with an 18,951 sq. km drainage area. The famous Hundru Falls (98 meters) is on its course in Jharkhand.
Cultural Significance - Culturally, the Subarnarekha is known for traces of gold in its riverbed sands.
Chandil Dam Details - The Chandil Dam, a multi-purpose dam for tourism and irrigation, is built on the Subarnarekha River in Seraikela Kharsawan district, Jharkhand.

Polity & Governance

Swarna Andhra @2047: A Vision for Prosperity

Andhra Pradesh launched its "Swarna Andhra @2047" vision, aiming to transform the state's economy and governance.

Initial Reforms - Chief Minister Naidu's early actions included repealing the AP Land Titling Act, increasing NTR Bharosa pensions, hiring 16,000+ teachers, and reviving Anna Canteens
Amaravati: A Global Hub - An ambitious plan aims to develop Amaravati into a global knowledge hub, projected to support 3.5 million people and create 1.5 million jobs by 2050.
P4 Model for Poverty - The Public-Private-People Partnership (P4) model seeks to eradicate poverty by 2029, with over 87,000 adoptions already registered.
Economic Outlook - Andhra Pradesh has attracted Rs9.34 lakh crore in investments, expecting 8.5 lakh jobs. The state targets 12.02% GSDP growth for 2024–25, emphasizing digital governance.

Estimates Committee Conference

The Lok Sabha Speaker recently inaugurated the National Conference of Estimates Committees in Mumbai, celebrating 75 years of the Parliamentary Estimates Committee.

Established in - 1950, this key financial oversight committee of the Indian Parliament ensures economy, efficiency, and accountability in government spending.
Membership and Selection - It comprises 30 Lok Sabha MPs, excluding Ministers, elected annually by proportional representation. The Chairperson is appointed by the Lok Sabha Speaker for a renewable one-year term.
Key Functions -The Committee reviews government estimates, recommends policy improvements, evaluates spending efficacy, and suggests better budget presentation, but excludes Public Undertakings.
Working Process - It scrutinizes ministries, gathers information, conducts study visits, holds evidence sessions, and publishes reports. The government must respond with Action Taken Reports within six months.
Significant Achievements - Since 1950, the Committee has presented 1184 reports (656 original, 528 action taken), significantly strengthening financial oversight and promoting fiscal accountability across major Ministries.

International Relations and Issues

International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWD)

Observed annually on June 24, IDWD honors women's crucial role in diplomacy, a historically male-dominated field now seeing more female leaders.

2025 Theme - "Eliminating Structural Barriers to Women’s Leadership in Diplomacy" highlights persistent inequalities and calls for institutional reforms like gender-balanced ministries and anti-harassment programs.
History - First proclaimed on June 20, 2022, and first observed on June 24, 2023, the day recognizes the evolving landscape of diplomacy.
Why It Matters - IDWD raises awareness of systemic exclusion, promotes gender equality (SDG 5), fosters inclusive diplomacy, and challenges restrictive cultural norms.
Key Data - As of January 2025, women hold only 25 heads of state/government positions and 22.9% of global cabinet roles, with even lower representation in peace negotiations.
Get Involved - Raise awareness, educate others, support aspiring female diplomats, and advocate for gender-sensitive foreign policies.

UN Public Service Day

Observed annually on June 23, United Nations Public Service Day honors public servants' vital contributions to development and quality of life globally.

Purpose of the Day - It recognizes public servants' national development contributions, celebrates innovation, encourages youth in public service, and highlights public institutions' role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Genesis and Awards - Established by UN General Assembly Resolution 57/277 in 2002, the first observance and UN Public Service Awards (UNPSA) ceremony were in 2003, recognizing excellence and promoting transparent governance.
Global Recognition - The UNPSA are prestigious awards honoring public institutions for creative, impactful, and inclusive approaches in governance, promoting professionalism, best practices, and knowledge exchange.
2025 Forum - The 2025 UN Public Service Forum in Samarkand, Uzbekistan (June 23-25), themed "Five Years to 2030: Accelerating Public Service Delivery for a Sustainable Future," will focus on accelerating innovation for SDGs.

Science

Kounis Syndrome: Allergic Heart Attack

A recent industrialist's death from a bee sting highlights Kounis Syndrome, a rare condition where an allergic reaction triggers acute coronary syndrome.

Mechanism - Triggers (like stings, drugs, food) activate mast cells, releasing chemicals that cause coronary artery spasms, reducing blood flow, and potentially leading to heart attacks.
Symptoms - Symptoms include chest pain, rash, hives, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and ECG changes.
Types - Type I involves normal arteries and spasm; Type II affects existing coronary disease, destabilizing plaques; Type III involves stent thrombosis.
Triggers - Common triggers are insect stings, medications (antibiotics, NSAIDs), certain foods (shellfish, nuts), environmental allergens, and underlying conditions like mastocytosis.
Treatment - Treatment involves antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine for the allergy, plus standard cardiac care like oxygen, nitrates, and blood thinners for the heart.

Miscellaneous

India Unveils Para Athletics Logo & Mascot

With 100 days to go, India launched the official logo and mascot for the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi on June 20, 2025.

Historic Hosting - This marks the first time India will host this prestigious global para-athletics event, showcasing its commitment to inclusive sports.
Event Details - The 12th edition will run from September 27 to October 5, 2025, at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, featuring 186 medal events and over 100 participating countries.
"Viraaj" the Mascot - The mascot, Viraaj, is a young elephant with a blade prosthesis, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and inclusive spirit of para-athletes.
Venue Preparations - The athletics track at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is undergoing relaying, expected to be completed one month before the event, with preparations on schedule.
Global Significance - Hosting this event elevates India’s global sporting profile, promotes para-athletes, and could inspire significant infrastructural and social improvements for persons with disabilities.

ARCHIVES

MONTH/YEARWISE ARCHIVES

Cotton Production in India

ARCHIVES

MONTH/YEARWISE ARCHIVES