Daily Current Affairs - 13th & 14th January 2026
- TPP
- Jan 14
- 25 min read
Updated: Jan 16
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | IMEC Corridor, India–Germany Defence & Tech Agreements, UN Advisory Board on Disarmament, India’s Fisheries Sector, Romeo–Juliet Clause in POCSO, Grey Zone Warfare, Australia Group, MPATGM, PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission, Aditya-L1 Solar Storm Findings, Bharatiya Antariksh Station, Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, Bhadrakali Inscription, National Sports Governance Rules 2026 and more.
If you missed Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP) | Sept - Oct 2025, read it here.Table of Content
India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
India views the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a strategic imperative, meaning it is essential for India’s long-term economic and geopolitical interests.
IMEC is a multi-modal connectivity project, where multi-modal refers to the combined use of ports, railways, roads, sea routes, and pipelines.
The project was formally launched through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which is a non-binding agreement indicating political commitment.
The MoU was signed at the G20 Summit (2023) held in New Delhi, providing global visibility and endorsement.
The signatories to the MoU include India, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the United States, reflecting wide international participation.
The primary objective of IMEC is to develop integrated infrastructure for seamless movement of goods and energy.
The corridor aims to strengthen connectivity between India and the Arabian Peninsula.
IMEC further extends connectivity to the Mediterranean region, linking West Asia to Europe.
The final leg of the corridor integrates Europe into a continuous trade and transport network.
Significance of IMEC for India
IMEC enables trade route diversification, which means spreading trade across multiple routes to reduce vulnerability.
The corridor reduces India’s dependence on the Suez Canal, a critical global maritime chokepoint.
The need for diversification became evident during the Red Sea crisis of 2023–24.
The Red Sea crisis was caused by Houthi attacks on commercial shipping, disrupting global trade flows.
IMEC is expected to reduce transit time by up to 40%, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
The corridor is projected to lower logistics costs by around 30%, improving export competitiveness.
Reduced logistics costs help Indian exporters avoid delays caused by route disruptions.
IMEC promises higher throughput for India’s west coast ports, meaning increased cargo-handling capacity.
Major beneficiary ports include Mumbai and Mundra, which are key gateways for Indian trade.
These ports will be integrated more deeply into Gulf and Mediterranean logistics ecosystems, meaning interconnected transport and port networks.
IMEC strengthens India’s role in Global Value Chains (GVCs), which are international production networks.
Improved connectivity with Europe enables India to move up the value chain.
Moving up the value chain involves shifting from low-value assembly to high-value manufacturing.
The corridor also supports the expansion of high-value services, including logistics and engineering services.
Challenges to the Success of IMEC
Geopolitical tensions pose a major challenge to the effective implementation of IMEC.
The Hamas–Israel war is a significant example of regional instability affecting corridor routes.
Port capacity mismatches create operational bottlenecks along the corridor.
The Jebel Ali port in the UAE has a capacity of about 90 million tonnes annually.
The Haifa port in Israel has a capacity of approximately 30 million tonnes annually.
Such disparities in port capacity can lead to congestion and logistical delays.
Financing gaps present another major constraint to IMEC’s execution.
IMEC spans countries with uneven fiscal capacities, meaning differing abilities to fund infrastructure.
Participating countries also have varying credit profiles, affecting access to affordable capital.
Traditional public funding alone is insufficient to finance the corridor.
IMEC therefore requires a sophisticated financing structure.
Public investment is necessary to provide foundational infrastructure.
Sovereign wealth capital, which refers to state-owned investment funds, can provide long-term financing.
Multilateral guarantees are required to reduce risk for private investors.
Such blended financing mechanisms are essential for the long-term success of IMEC.
India–Germany Agreements to Boost Bilateral Relations
India and Germany signed multiple agreements to strengthen bilateral relations, indicating deepening strategic cooperation.
These agreements were signed during the official visit of the German Chancellor to India.
The visit coincided with a milestone phase in bilateral ties, giving it added diplomatic significance.
India and Germany celebrated 25 years of their Strategic Partnership in 2025, highlighting sustained cooperation.
The visit also marked preparations for 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, reflecting long-standing ties.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
Defence and Security Cooperation
A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed to develop a Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap.
The Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap focuses on technology partnerships, meaning collaborative innovation.
The roadmap emphasizes co-development of defence platforms, where both countries jointly design systems.
It also stresses co-production, which refers to joint manufacturing of defence equipment.
Germany expressed its intent to participate in Indian Naval Exercise MILAN, a multilateral naval exercise hosted by India.
Germany also showed interest in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a forum for regional naval cooperation.
Germany conveyed willingness to join Air Combat Exercise Tarang Shakti, a multinational air exercise led by India.
A Track 1.5 Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue was established to enhance strategic communication.
Track 1.5 diplomacy involves interaction between government officials and non-governmental experts.
This form of diplomacy allows less formal and more flexible policy discussions.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
India and Germany signed agreements to ensure supply chain resilience, meaning reduced vulnerability to disruptions.
These agreements focused on the semiconductor sector, which is critical for electronics and digital technologies.
Cooperation was also enhanced in critical minerals, which are essential for clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
Visa and Mobility Cooperation
Germany announced a visa-free transit facility for Indian passport holders.
This measure aims to ease mobility and people-to-people exchanges.
Other Major Outcomes
India and Germany announced a new bilateral Indo-Pacific consultation mechanism.
This mechanism aims to coordinate policies in the Indo-Pacific region, a strategically important maritime space.
In the field of education, the Indo-German Comprehensive Roadmap on Higher Education was adopted.
This roadmap focuses on education cooperation and skill development.
Other Key Aspects of Indo–German Relations
Economic Relations
Indo–German bilateral trade surpassed USD 50 billion in 2024, reflecting strong economic engagement.
Germany accounts for over 25% of India’s total trade with the European Union.
Germany ranked as the 9th largest foreign direct investor (FDI) in India in 2024.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to long-term investment by foreign entities in domestic businesses.
Environmental Cooperation
India and Germany cooperate through the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP).
GSDP aims to align bilateral climate cooperation with the Paris Climate Agreement.
The Paris Climate Agreement is a global treaty aimed at limiting global temperature rise.
Technology and Innovation
India and Germany collaborate in science and innovation through the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC).
IGSTC promotes joint research, innovation, and technology development.
Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters
An Indian diplomat has been nominated by the United Nations Secretary-General as the Chair of the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters.
The nomination is for the tenure 2026–27, indicating a two-year leadership role.
About the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters
The Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters was established in 1978, reflecting long-standing UN engagement in disarmament.
The Secretariat of the Board is located in New York, which is the headquarters of the United Nations.
Functions of the Advisory Board
The primary function of the Board is to advise the UN Secretary-General on issues related to arms limitation.
Arms limitation refers to measures that restrict the quantity or type of weapons held by states.
The Board also advises the Secretary-General on matters of disarmament, which means reduction or elimination of weapons.
The Advisory Board serves as the Board of Trustees of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).
UNIDIR is a UN-affiliated research institute that conducts policy-relevant studies on disarmament and security.
Membership of the Advisory Board
The members of the Advisory Board are chosen by the UN Secretary-General.
Members are selected from all regions of the world, ensuring geographic representation.
Selection is based on knowledge and experience in disarmament and international security.
International security refers to measures aimed at maintaining peace and preventing armed conflict among states.
The Advisory Board consists of 15 members in total, reflecting its expert and advisory nature.
New Constitution for the “State of South Arabia”
On January 3, the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen announced a new Constitution for the “State of South Arabia”.
The announcement signaled the STC’s renewed push for separate statehood for southern Yemen.
The STC seeks to establish southern Yemen as an independent state, which it refers to as “South Arabia”.
Nearly a decade after its formation, the STC appears closer than ever to achieving its secessionist objective.
Secessionist objective refers to the political aim of separating from an existing state.
Yemen: Political and Geographical Context
Yemen’s capital is Sanaa.
Yemen is located at the south-western tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
Yemen borders Saudi Arabia to the north, Oman to the east, Red Sea to the west, Gulf of Aden to the south and Arabian Sea to the southeast.
Yemen occupies a strategic position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
This strait is a critical global shipping route.
Physical Geography of Yemen
Yemen’s Socotra Archipelago lies in the Indian Ocean.
The Socotra Archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yemen includes part of the Rub’ al Khali Desert, also known as the Empty Quarter.
Yemen’s highest peak is Jabal an Nabi Shu’ayb.
Yemen has no perennial rivers or lakes, meaning no permanent freshwater bodies.
Growth of India’s Fisheries Sector
India’s fish production doubled between FY 2013–14 and FY 2024–25, indicating rapid sectoral growth.
India is the world’s second-largest fish producer, highlighting its global importance.
India contributes around 8% of global fish output, reflecting strong production capacity.
The fisheries sector provides livelihoods to approximately 3 crore fishers and fish farmers.
Production and Economic Contribution
Fish production increased from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013–14. Fish production reached 197.75 lakh tonnes in FY 2024–25.
Fisheries contributed 7.43% to Agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA) in FY 2024–25.
Gross Value Added (GVA) measures the value of goods and services produced in an economy.
This contribution is the highest among agriculture and allied sectors.
Average aquaculture productivity increased to 4.77 tonnes per hectare.
Aquaculture refers to the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms.
India exported 16.98 lakh tonnes of seafood in 2023–24.
Key Government Initiatives Driving Growth
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is the flagship scheme for fisheries development.
PMMSY aims to drive the “Blue Revolution”, which refers to sustainable growth in fisheries and aquaculture.
The scheme focuses on bridging infrastructural gaps in the fisheries value chain.
PMMSY has approved cage culture systems for open-water aquaculture.
Cage culture involves rearing fish in enclosed nets placed in natural water bodies.
PMMSY has supported Biofloc units, which improve water quality using microbial systems.
The scheme has approved Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS).
RAS are closed-loop systems that reuse water to reduce environmental impact.
PMMSY has also promoted brood banks, which conserve high-quality fish breeding stock.
Infrastructure and Technology Support
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) was set up in 2018–19.
FIDF supports creation of marine and inland fisheries infrastructure.
Marine fisheries refer to fishing in seas and oceans.
Inland fisheries refer to fishing in rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.
FIDF aimed to augment fish production to 15 million tonnes by 2020.
The government approved 11 Integrated Aquaparks to strengthen the value chain.
These Aquaparks have a sanctioned cost of Rs 682.60 crore.
Integrated Aquaparks provide facilities for processing, storage, and marketing at one location.
Satellite technology has been integrated into the fisheries sector.
This includes the Vessel Communication and Support System, which improves fisher safety.
The Oceansat satellite is used for oceanographic data to support fishing activities.
Income and Institutional Support
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY) was launched in 2024.
PMMKSSY is a Central Sector Sub-scheme under PMMSY.
The scheme is implemented for a period of four years.
PMMKSSY aims to address structural weaknesses in the fisheries sector.
The scheme uses targeted financial and technological interventions.
Challenges to Further Growth
Environmental challenges include overfishing, which depletes fish stocks.
Habitat destruction threatens breeding and nursery grounds.
Climate change affects ocean temperatures and fish migration patterns.
Economic challenges include market price fluctuations.
Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing undermines sustainability and incomes.
IUU fishing refers to fishing conducted without authorization or reporting.
Limited access to formal markets and credit affects small fishers.
Social challenges include concerns over food security.
Gender inequality persists in fisheries value chains.
Community displacement affects traditional fishing communities.
Technology integration remains inadequate for small-scale fishers.
Technologies such as GPS, sonar, and mobile applications need wider adoption.
Improved technology access can enhance productivity and safety of small fishermen.
Supreme Court on “Romeo–Juliet Clause” in the POCSO Act
The Supreme Court urged the Union Government to consider introducing a “Romeo–Juliet clause” in the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The Court made this observation while highlighting the misuse of the POCSO Act in consensual adolescent relationships.
The Court emphasized the need to balance child protection with personal liberty.
Personal liberty refers to the constitutional freedom of individuals to make personal choices without undue state interference.
Key Highlights of the Supreme Court’s Judgement
The Court noted instances of misuse of law under the POCSO framework.
In several cases, the age of the victim is misrepresented to bring the matter under stringent POCSO provisions.
Stringent provisions refer to harsh legal consequences such as mandatory imprisonment.
The Court also observed that families opposing adolescent relationships have used POCSO as a punitive tool.
Such misuse often targets consensual relationships between young people.
Consensual relationships are those entered into voluntarily by both parties without coercion.
Proposal for a “Romeo–Juliet Clause”
The Court recommended introducing a “Romeo–Juliet clause” into the POCSO Act.
A Romeo–Juliet clause provides legal exemption for consensual relationships between adolescents.
The exemption applies where the age difference between the parties is minimal.
Such a clause aims to prevent harsh application of POCSO in genuine cases.
Ignoring the consensual nature of adolescent relationships can result in wrongful imprisonment.
Wrongful imprisonment refers to incarceration without just or proportional legal basis.
About the POCSO Act
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was enacted to protect children below 18 years of age.
The Act addresses sexual assault, sexual harassment, and child pornography.
POCSO is a gender-neutral law, meaning it applies irrespective of the gender of the child or offender.
The Act legally defines a child as any person below 18 years of age.
Categorisation of Offences under POCSO
The Act classifies sexual offences into penetrative sexual assault.
Penetrative sexual assault involves physical sexual penetration.
The Act also recognizes non-penetrative sexual assault.
Non-penetrative assault includes sexual acts without penetration.
The Act further identifies aggravated forms of sexual offences, based on severity or abuse of authority.
These offences attract stringent punishments.
Punishments range from imprisonment to life imprisonment.
Special Courts and Child Protection Measures
The Act mandates the establishment of Special Courts for POCSO cases.
These courts ensure speedy trials, ideally within one year.
Trials are conducted in-camera, meaning proceedings are held in private.
In-camera trials protect children from public exposure and trauma.
The Act safeguards children from direct exposure to the accused.
It also prevents hostile or intimidating questioning during trials.
The law mandates compensation for child victims.
The Act also ensures rehabilitation of affected children
Grey‑Zone Warfare Tactics
The actions undertaken by the United States against Venezuela are cited as an example of grey‑zone warfare.
Grey‑zone warfare refers to competitive actions that fall between peace and open armed conflict.
About Grey‑Zone Warfare
Grey‑zone warfare involves a set of activities conducted below the threshold of war.
These activities occur between cooperation and direct military confrontation.
The primary objective is to harm or coerce an adversary without triggering a conventional war.
In many cases, the target does not immediately realize it is under attack.
Tactics Used in Grey‑Zone Warfare
One common tactic is cyber operations, which target digital infrastructure.
Cyber operations include the use of malware, which is malicious software.
Malware is used to disrupt power grids and telecommunications networks.
Grey‑zone tactics include raids and special operations, conducted covertly or deniably.
Proxy violence is another tactic, where third parties are used to inflict harm.
Salami slicing, often associated with China’s tactics, is a key grey‑zone method.
Salami slicing involves small, incremental military actions.
These small actions aim to capture territory piece by piece without provoking war.
Key Features of Grey‑Zone Warfare
A defining feature is operations below the threshold of war.
In such operations, the aggressor relies on non‑kinetic instruments.
Non‑kinetic instruments refer to tools that do not involve direct physical violence.
Aggressors also rely on indirect instruments, such as economic or cyber pressure.
These actions are designed to avoid triggering a conventional military response.
Grey‑zone warfare involves incremental and prolonged escalation.
Such escalation often unfolds gradually over years or even decades.
This gradual approach limits the defender’s ability to respond decisively.
Another feature is the exploitation of target vulnerabilities.
These vulnerabilities may be political in nature. Vulnerabilities may also be economic weaknesses. Technological vulnerabilities are frequently targeted.
Societal vulnerabilities, such as internal divisions, are also exploited.
Grey‑zone warfare relies heavily on plausible deniability.
Plausible deniability allows the aggressor to avoid admitting involvement.
India and Grey‑Zone Warfare
India faces persistent grey‑zone warfare challenges.
These challenges primarily originate from China and Pakistan.
Grey‑zone tactics against India include cyber, informational, and proxy activities.
Measures to Counter Grey‑Zone Warfare
India can respond by integrating cyber defence into military planning.
Cyber defence integration ensures preparedness against digital threats.
India should conduct regular red‑teaming exercises.
Red‑teaming is a method of testing cybersecurity systems by simulating attacks.
Red‑teaming should focus on critical infrastructure such as power and communication networks.
Australia Group
The Australia Group recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.
The Group was founded in 1985, following the use of chemical weapons during the Iran–Iraq war.
The Iran–Iraq war chemical attacks highlighted the need for international mechanisms to prevent proliferation of chemical weapons.
The Australia Group is an informal arrangement, meaning it has no legally binding obligations for participants.
Its primary objective is to allow exporters and transshipment countries to minimize the risk of chemical and biological weapons (CBW) proliferation.
Chemical and biological weapons (CBW) are weapons that use toxic chemicals or pathogens to harm humans, animals, or plants.
The Group has 43 participants, which include 42 countries and the European Union.
India became a member of the Australia Group in 2018, joining global efforts against CBW proliferation.
The Australia Group is considered a key multilateral export control regime.
Multilateral export control regimes are international agreements where multiple countries coordinate export rules to prevent weapons proliferation.
Other important multilateral export control regimes include the Wassenaar Arrangement, the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), and the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
These regimes collectively aim to regulate the trade of sensitive technologies and materials to prevent their use in weapons programs.
MPATGM (Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile)
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the indigenously developed third-generation MPATGM.
The missile was tested against a moving target, demonstrating its operational capability.
MPATGM is a shoulder-launched, portable missile system, allowing infantry to carry and deploy it easily.
The system is specifically designed to counter enemy tanks and armoured vehicles.
MPATGM incorporates state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, ensuring it is fully developed in India.
One key technology is the Imaging Infrared (IIR) Homing Seeker, which allows the missile to detect and lock onto heat signatures of targets.
Another feature is the all-electric Control Actuation System, which guides the missile using electric actuators instead of hydraulic systems.
The missile also integrates an advanced Fire Control System, which calculates target range, movement, and missile trajectory for precision strikes.
ISRO’s PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission
The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission encountered an anomaly during its 3rd stage.
The launch marked the 64th flight of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
It was also the 9th dedicated commercial mission undertaken by New Space India Limited (NSIL).
NSIL, incorporated in 2019, is a wholly owned government company.
NSIL operates under the administrative control of the Department of Space.
It serves as the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
About PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission
The mission includes the launch of the EOS-N1 Earth Observation Satellite.
It also carried 15 co-passenger satellites from domestic and international customers.
EOS-N1 is designed to strengthen India’s space-based monitoring capabilities.
The mission will also demonstrate KID or Kestrel Initial Technology Demonstrator from a Spanish startup.
KID is a small-scale prototype of a re-entry vehicle, which will re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere and splashdown in the South Pacific Ocean.
EOS-N1 and 14 co-passenger satellites will be injected into a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO).
Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) is an orbit where a satellite passes over the same part of Earth at the same local solar time, ideal for Earth observation.
The KID capsule will be placed on a re-entry trajectory.
About PSLV
PSLV is a third-generation launch vehicle.
It is the first Indian launch vehicle equipped with liquid stages.
PSLV is considered the workhorse of ISRO due to its reliable delivery of satellites to Low Earth Orbits (LEO).
It can carry payloads up to 1,750 kg to Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbits of 600 km altitude.
Stages in PSLV
First Stage uses the S139 solid rocket motor, augmented by 6 solid strap-on boosters.
Second Stage uses an Earth-storable liquid rocket engine called the Vikas engine, developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
Third Stage is a solid rocket motor, providing high thrust to the upper stages.
Fourth Stage, the uppermost stage, comprises two Earth-storable liquid engines.
Notable PSLV Missions
PSLV has launched significant missions like Chandrayaan-1, Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), Aditya-L1, and Astrosat.
In 2017, PSLV set a world record by launching 104 satellites in a single mission.
Chinese Nuclear Fusion Reactor Pushes Plasma Past Crucial Limit
China’s Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), also called Artificial Sun, successfully kept plasma stable at extreme densities.
Previously, researchers believed plasma could not exceed a certain density without becoming unstable, known as the Greenwald limit.
The achievement overcomes a major obstacle in nuclear fusion research.
About Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear fusion is the process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a single heavier nucleus.
The fusion process releases massive amounts of energy.
Fusion is the process that powers the Sun and other stars.
Fusion occurs in a state of matter called plasma.
Plasma is a hot, charged gas consisting of positive ions and free-moving electrons.
Plasma has unique properties that are distinct from solids, liquids, or gases.
Significance of Nuclear Fusion
Fusion generates four times more energy per kilogram of fuel compared to nuclear fission.
Fuel for fusion is accessible, such as deuterium extracted from seawater and abundant lithium.
Fusion is intrinsically safe, as it is not expected to produce highly radioactive or long-lived nuclear waste.
Fusion is a clean energy source, producing no carbon dioxide or greenhouse gases.
About Tokamak Reactors
A tokamak reactor is an experimental machine designed to harness energy from fusion.
In a tokamak, fusion plasma is created and confined by strong magnetic fields.
The plasma is contained inside a doughnut-shaped chamber.
Energy produced from fusion is absorbed as heat in the walls of the vessel.
Like a conventional power plant, a fusion plant uses this heat to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.
The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is the world’s largest tokamak, located in Southern France.
ITER is an international joint fusion experiment, with members including 27 EU countries, China, India, Japan, Korea, Russia, the US, and Switzerland.
Nuclear Fusion Facilities in India
ADITYA is India’s first indigenously designed and fabricated tokamak, located at the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) in Gujarat, operational since 1989.
Steady State Superconducting Tokamak (SST-1) is another Indian tokamak, fully commissioned in 2013 at IPR.
Both facilities support India’s research in controlled nuclear fusion and plasma physics.
Aditya-L1’s Findings on Solar Storms
ISRO’s Aditya-L1 mission decoded the impact of a powerful solar storm on Earth’s invisible magnetic shield.
Aditya-L1 is the first space-based Indian mission to study the Sun.
It was launched by PSLV-C57 in 2023.
The spacecraft is placed in a halo orbit around Lagrange Point 1 (L1).
A halo orbit is a three-dimensional orbit around a Lagrange point where gravitational forces of the Earth and Sun balance.
Key Findings
The solar storm was caused by a massive eruption of solar plasma material from the Sun.
The most severe effects of the storm occurred in turbulent regions of the solar event.
These regions strongly compressed Earth’s magnetic field.
The storm exposed some satellites in geostationary orbit to harsh space conditions.
Geostationary orbit is an orbit where satellites remain fixed relative to the Earth’s surface, commonly used for communication and weather satellites.
Significance
The findings highlight the importance of understanding space weather.
Space weather refers to conditions caused by transient solar activity, such as solar plasma eruptions.
Space weather can impact satellites, communication systems, and power grids on Earth
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) for manufacturing two sets of Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) structure.
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is India’s planned space station for scientific research and as an orbiting platform for Indian human spaceflight. BAS will be placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is an orbit at an altitude of 160–2,000 km above Earth, commonly used for satellites and human spaceflight platforms.
The development and launch of the first module, Base Module (BAS-01), is planned by 2028.
The fully operational BAS, comprising five modules, is expected to be completed by 2035.
BAS-1 is included in the revised scope of the Gaganyaan Programme.
The station’s significance lies in enabling microgravity-based scientific research and technology development.
BAS will also encourage innovations, industrial participation, and economic activity in India’s human space programme.
Microgravity refers to a condition of very low gravitational force experienced in orbit, which allows unique scientific experiments impossible on Earth.
Aerosols and Winter Fog
IIT Madras research reveals that elevated aerosol concentrations are associated with thicker fog and larger droplets near the fog top.
The study is based on 15 years of CALIPSO satellite data.
CALIPSO (Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations) is a satellite mission that uses lidar technology to study clouds and aerosols in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Key Findings: Aerosols and Winter Fog
Aerosols induce vertical mixing in the atmosphere through latent heat release.
This mechanism lifts fog tops to heights of 400–600 meters.
Aerosol-driven vertical mixing significantly delays fog dissipation, prolonging the foggy conditions.
The aerosol thickening mechanism traps pollutants closer to the surface.
This creates a vicious feedback loop, worsening air quality. Air quality deterioration due to aerosols has socio-economic impacts, including health risks, transport disruptions, and reduced visibility.
The study highlights that reducing aerosol emissions is critical to mitigate the persistent winter fog and its socio-economic disruptions.
Pax Silica
India will be invited to join Pax Silica, a U.S.-led initiative.
Pax Silica aims to build a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven technology ecosystem.
The program covers the full technology supply chain, ensuring self-reliance and security in critical sectors.
It includes semiconductors and AI infrastructure, which are essential for computing, data processing, and artificial intelligence applications.
The initiative also focuses on critical minerals and energy inputs, which are raw materials and energy sources necessary for high-tech manufacturing.
Advanced manufacturing and high-end hardware are covered, supporting sophisticated production processes and devices.
Compute and data logistics are included, involving the management of computing resources and secure data flow across networks.
The key objectives of Pax Silica are to reduce coercive dependencies, preventing reliance on single or adversary nations for critical technology.
Another objective is to protect sensitive technologies and build trusted digital infrastructure, ensuring national and allied security.
Current members of the initiative include Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Israel, among others.
Reinvention of Coal as Next-Gen Fuel
The Centre has earmarked ₹5,925 crore for the exploration of coal and lignite over the next five years starting FY27.
The government is taking steps to reduce the polluting impact of coal-based energy.
Status of Coal Sector in India
India holds the 5th largest coal reserves in the world, with an estimated coal resource of about 401 billion tonnes as of April 2025.
Coal production has doubled to 1,047.523 Million Tonnes (MT) in FY 2024-25 from 565.77 MT in FY 2013-14.
Future demand for coal is projected to rise to approximately 1.5 billion tonnes by 2030.
Significance of Coal for India
Coal remains the primary energy source, supplying 72% of electricity, providing a reliable 24x7 base-load supply despite pollution challenges.
Coal supports critical industries like steel, cement, and heavy industries, driving economic growth.
For example, coal is central to the National Steel Policy’s target of 300 MT of crude steel by 2030.
Energy security is enhanced by domestic coal production, which reduces imports and saved approximately $8 billion in 2024-25.
Coal expansion also creates jobs and attracts major investments, contributing to economic development.
Steps Taken to Reduce Polluting Impact of Coal
Mission Green (Grow, Restore, Enrich, and Empower Nature) aims to balance coal usage with environmental sustainability.
Coal Gasification converts coal into cleaner gas fuel, with the National Coal Gasification Mission targeting 100 MT of coal gasification by 2030.
First Mile Connectivity (FMC) ensures transport of coal from pitheads to dispatch points via conveyor belts and rail, reducing dust and pollution from road transport.
Coal Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are diversifying into renewable energy, aiming to install 22.5 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, with over 2 GW of solar power already installed.
Sustainable Mine Closure initiatives like LIVES (Land and technical reclamation) and RECLAIM ensure scientific closure of mines and ecological restoration.
The ARTHA Framework has been introduced to map carbon credit opportunities and drive green financing in the mining sector.
Ocean Heat Content Sets Another Record in 2025
A recent study highlighted that global ocean warming continued unabated in 2025, driven by increased greenhouse gas concentrations and reductions in sulfate aerosols.
Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases like CO₂ that trap heat, while sulfate aerosols are particles that reflect sunlight and cool the atmosphere.
Key Findings of the Study
In 2025, oceans absorbed an additional 23 zettajoules (ZJ) of heat, marking the highest heat uptake since the 1960s.
Zettajoule (ZJ) is a unit of energy equal to 1 trillion gigajoules.
Nearly 90% of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases is absorbed by oceans, confirming that oceans are the primary buffer of global warming.
The global average Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs) in 2025 were among the highest ever recorded, approximately 0.5°C above the 1981–2010 average.
Sea Surface Temperature (SST) refers to the temperature of the ocean’s surface layer, which influences weather and marine life.
Major Implications of Ocean Warming
Increased ocean stratification occurs as warmer surface waters reduce vertical mixing, which lowers oxygen supply to deeper waters, reduces nutrient transport to the surface, and causes a decline in ocean productivity.
Marine heat waves are expected to increase, which can trigger coral bleaching, coral diseases, and alter the migration and breeding patterns of marine species.
Warmer oceans fuel intense storms, as they provide more heat and moisture to the atmosphere, leading to stronger cyclones and hurricanes with heavier rainfall and flooding.
Marine ecosystems face threats because reduced nutrient availability impacts phytoplankton, which are the base of ocean food chains and critical for global fish stocks.
Western Disturbances
Himalayan hill stations remain snowless due to feeble Western Disturbances in the current season.
About Western Disturbances
Western Disturbances are extra-tropical cyclones that originate over the east Mediterranean Sea and move eastwards across West Asia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan before reaching northwestern India.
Extra-tropical cyclones are low-pressure systems that form outside the tropics, driven by temperature contrasts rather than heat from the tropics.
They are embedded within the subtropical westerly jet stream, which flows over the Himalayan and Tibetan highlands.
Subtropical westerly jet stream is a high-speed wind current in the upper atmosphere that guides weather systems.
On their path, the moisture content of Western Disturbances increases by drawing water from the Caspian Sea in the north and the Persian Gulf in the south.
The amount of precipitation decreases from west to east in the plains and from north to south in the mountains, creating variable rainfall patterns.
Western Disturbances cause rainfall in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh, which is highly beneficial for rabi crops.
Rabi crops are winter-sown crops like wheat and mustard that grow from October–March in India.
Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary
The Kerala government has officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary to highlight its rich butterfly diversity.
Geography: The sanctuary is nestled on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range known for high biodiversity.
Boundaries: It is contiguous with the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka to the north and the forests of Wayanad to the south, forming an important wildlife corridor.
River System: The sanctuary is drained by the Cheenkannipuzha, which is a major tributary of the Valapattanam River.
Tributary refers to a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river.
Biodiversity: It is a critical habitat for over 250 species of butterflies, including endemic species like the Malabar Rose and the Southern Birdwing, which is India’s largest butterfly.
Endemic species are those found naturally only in a specific region.
Fauna: The sanctuary also supports large mammals such as elephants, gaur, panther, tiger, sambar, and wild boar, highlighting its ecological significance.
NIRANTAR Platform
The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister recently chaired a meeting of the National Institute for Research and Application of Natural Resources to Transform, Adapt and Build Resilience (NIRANTAR).
About NIRANTAR: It is a platform designed to enhance cooperation and collaboration among various institutes under the Environment Ministry.
The platform does not involve establishing any new institution or increasing manpower, making it cost-effective and flexible.
Aim: NIRANTAR seeks to make the Ministry’s institutes more effective and responsive to fast-changing local and global environmental challenges.
Key concept – Resilience: In this context, resilience refers to the ability of ecosystems and institutions to adapt to climate change and environmental stresses.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)
PNGRB and its German counterpart recently signed an MoU to establish a framework for cooperation on hydrogen regulations and standards in India.
PNGRB is a statutory body formed under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006.
It functions under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
PNGRB fosters fair trade and competition, ensuring a competitive market for gas.
It regulates refining, transportation, distribution, and marketing of petroleum products and natural gas, but excludes production of crude oil and natural gas.
PNGRB can adjudicate disputes arising among entities on issues relating to petroleum, petroleum products, and natural gas.
Appeals against PNGRB decisions are heard by the Appellate Tribunals for Electricity, established under the Electricity Act, 2003.
Swami Vivekananda's Visionary Legacy
Swami Vivekananda was born in Calcutta on 12 January 1863 and was a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhans.
National Youth Day or Rashtriya Yuva Divas is celebrated on 12th January every year in commemoration of the great spiritual leader, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda,
In 1893, he addressed the Parliament of World’s Religions in Chicago, introducing Hinduism to the Western world.
He founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 to promote spiritual, social, and educational upliftment.
Key Philosophical Idea – Neo-Vedanta: He emphasised the oneness of all beings, asserting that everyone is interconnected and equal, with no inherent superiority of one over another.
Universalism: His philosophy transcends sectarian divides, aiming to foster unity among diverse communities.
Knowledge: He viewed knowledge as the primary goal of humanity, while considering pleasure as impermanent and knowledge as enduring.
Religion: He believed that a religion’s true worth lies in its ability to uplift humanity under all circumstances.
Education: Swami Vivekananda advocated for holistic education addressing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of a person.
Relevance Today – Inclusivity and Universal Brotherhood: His ideas promote empathy and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds in a globalized world.
Societal Transformation: He challenged caste and creed barriers, encouraging equality and social reform.
Emotional Intelligence: Integrating mindfulness and emotional intelligence enhances well-being and effective management of emotions.
Peaceful Coexistence: He encouraged the West to blend India’s spiritual advances with modernity and advised Indians to pursue modernisation while cutting through social hierarchies and meaningless rituals.
Bhadrakali Inscription
The Bhadrakali inscription is a vital 12th-century epigraphic record that authenticates the historical and architectural evolution of the Somnath Temple.
It highlights the patronage of the Solanki dynasty, particularly the 12th-century revival under King Kumarapala.
Location: The inscription is situated at Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, embedded in the wall of the ancient Bhadrakali Temple.
It is dated to 1169 CE, providing a precise chronological reference for the temple’s history.
Context: The record serves as a prashasti (eulogy) for Acharya Bhavabrihaspati, the spiritual preceptor of Kumarapala.
Chronology of Somnath Temple: The inscription narrates a legendary history across the four Yugas, describing its successive construction in gold, silver, wood, and finally stone by Bhimdev Solanki.
Patronage Details: It emphasizes the Solanki dynasty’s role in temple revival, showcasing Kumarapala’s efforts to restore the Somnath Temple in the 12th century.
National Cooperative Sugar Federation (NFCSF)
The National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Limited (NFCSF) has sought urgent government intervention to address financial stress in the sugar industry caused by declining sugar prices.
Establishment: NFCSF was established in 1960 as the apex body of the cooperative sugar sector in India.
Role: It serves as the representative organization for cooperative sugar factories and participates in policy formulation at both national and state levels.
Reach: NFCSF represents over 260 cooperative sugar factories and 9 state federations, directly impacting the livelihoods of nearly 5 crore farmers.
Significance: The federation helps set the agenda for the development and growth of India’s cooperative sugar sector, influencing strategic decisions and support mechanisms.
National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026
The Government notified the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026 under the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.
National sports bodies include entities such as the National Olympic Committee, Regional Sports Federations, and other recognized national-level sports organizations.
Each national sports body is required to have a General Body and an Executive Committee to ensure structured governance.
General Body Composition: It must include at least 4 sportspersons of outstanding merit (SOMs), who are at least 25 years old, with 50% of members being women.
Executive Committee Women Representation: Certain posts are reserved to ensure a minimum of 4 women members on the committee.
National Sports Election Panel: Elections of national sports bodies will be overseen by this panel, which must have at least 20 members at all times.
Disqualification Criteria: Persons convicted by a court and sentenced to imprisonment are disqualified from holding positions in national sports bodies.
NCVET (National Council for Vocational Education and Training)
The first general body meeting of NCVET was recently held.
NCVET was established in 2018 under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
It subsumed the National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) and the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT), integrating the previously fragmented vocational regulatory system.
NCVET serves as a national regulator for skilling, responsible for the development, qualitative improvement, and regulation of vocational education and training.
Key functions include granting recognition to, and monitoring the functioning of, awarding bodies, assessment agencies, and skill information providers.
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