Daily Current Affairs - 21st April 2026
- Kaushal
- 16 hours ago
- 12 min read
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | India–Russia RELOS Pact Operationalised, India’s First Private Gold Mine at Jonnagiri, Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool ₹12,980 Cr Approval, Vishwa Sutra Handloom Initiative, Supreme Court Road Safety Directions under Article 142, Genome India Project Genetic Variants Study, Advanced 3D Semiconductor Packaging Unit at Bhubaneswar, Ladakh Petroglyph Conservation Park, GM Mosquito Gene Drive Breakthrough, OCI Scheme Expansion in Sri Lanka, Market Intervention Scheme for Potatoes and more.
Table of Content
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) Pact
The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) pact between India and Russia has recently become operational, marking a significant step in bilateral defence cooperation.
About RELOS Pact
The primary objective of RELOS is to enable reciprocal access to military bases, ports, and air facilities, including providing India with access to the Arctic region, enhancing strategic reach.
The pact covers a broad scope, including logistics support (fuel, supplies, maintenance), joint military exercises, training activities, and humanitarian missions, strengthening operational collaboration.
It also includes a deployment provision, allowing both countries to station up to 3,000 troops, 5 warships, and 10 aircraft in each other’s territory for a period of five years, enhancing readiness and presence.
Significance of RELOS
The agreement strengthens defence cooperation and interoperability (ability of forces to operate together effectively) between India and Russia.
It also supports the maintenance and operational efficiency of Russian-origin defence equipment used by India, which remains a key component of its military inventory.
Additionally, the pact gains importance amid evolving global geopolitical tensions, providing strategic flexibility and logistical support capabilities.
Gold Mining in India
India’s first private gold mining project is set to begin at the Jonnagiri Mine in Kurnool, marking a shift towards private participation in the mining sector.
About Gold
Gold is a soft, ductile (can be drawn into wires), and corrosion-resistant metal, typically found in its native form (natural state) as nuggets, veins, or alluvial deposits (sediments in riverbeds).
It has unique chemical properties, such as dissolving in cyanide (used in gold extraction processes) and forming an amalgam with mercury (alloy used in traditional extraction methods).
Reserves and Distribution in India
India possesses around 518.23 million tonnes of gold ore (as of 2020), indicating substantial geological potential.
The largest reserves are found in Bihar (43%), followed by Rajasthan (~25%) and Karnataka (~20%), showing regional concentration.
In terms of production, Karnataka dominates with about 97% of India’s gold output, with the notable Hutti Gold Mines being a key operational mine.
Additionally, placer deposits (gold found in river sediments) are present in Kerala, contributing to smaller-scale extraction.
Global Scenario of Gold
Globally, the top gold producers include China (around 10%), followed by Russia and Australia, indicating concentrated production.
Major gold importers include Switzerland, China, and United Kingdom, reflecting strong demand and refining hubs.
Key exporters are Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom, highlighting their role in global gold trade networks.
Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool
The Government has approved a ₹12,980 crore Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool to secure India’s shipping sector, aligning with the vision of Maritime India Vision 2030.
About Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool
The primary purpose of the pool is to ensure continuous and affordable insurance coverage, especially during geopolitical conflicts when foreign insurers may withdraw services.
It provides comprehensive coverage for all maritime risks, including hull (ship structure), machinery, cargo, protection and indemnity (P&I—liability insurance for shipowners), and war-related risks.
Significance of the Scheme
The initiative strengthens trade security, ensuring uninterrupted maritime operations even during global uncertainties.
It also promotes self-reliance in maritime insurance, reducing dependence on foreign insurance providers and enhancing India’s strategic resilience in global trade.
Vishwa Sutra Initiative
The Ministry of Textiles has launched the initiative “Vishwa Sutra – Weaves of India for the World” to promote Indian handloom heritage in a global design context.
About Vishwa Sutra
The initiative has been undertaken by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms) in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology, integrating policy and design expertise.
Its primary aim is to present traditional Indian handlooms within a contemporary global design framework, enhancing their international appeal.
Under this initiative, 30 distinct handloom weaves from across India have been curated, with each weave representing a different state, showcasing regional diversity.
These weaves have been creatively reinterpreted using design inspirations from 30 different countries, blending global cultural elements, silhouettes, and aesthetics.
Examples include Odisha Ikat combined with Greek design forms, Kanchipuram weaves inspired by Norwegian lines, Muga silk with Egyptian elements, Patola with Spanish influences, and Banarasi fabrics adapted to UAE-inspired ensembles, reflecting cross-cultural fusion.
Supreme Court Directions on Road Safety
In Phalodi Accident v. National Highways Authority of India, the Supreme Court of India (SC) issued pan-India road safety directions, cautioning that expressways must not become “corridors of peril” due to administrative or infrastructural failures.
The Court invoked Article 142 of the Constitution (power of SC to pass any order necessary to do complete justice) to issue nationwide binding directions.
Key Observations by the Supreme Court
The SC held that road safety is an integral part of the Right to Life and Dignity under Article 21, expanding its scope to include safe public infrastructure.
It clarified that Article 21 imposes a positive obligation on the State (duty to actively ensure safety, not merely avoid violations) to provide safe roads and transport systems.
The Court highlighted that National Highways (NHs), despite constituting only ~2% of total road length, account for nearly 30% of road fatalities, indicating serious safety gaps.
Key Directions Issued by the Supreme Court
The SC directed the creation of District Highway Safety Task Forces in all districts through which NHs pass, to ensure local-level coordination and monitoring.
It mandated infrastructure improvements, including proper lighting, signage, road markings, and crash barriers, in line with prescribed safety standards.
The Court emphasised enhanced surveillance and patrolling, requiring Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) such as CCTV cameras, speed detection systems, and emergency call boxes.
It ordered time-bound rectification of “blackspots” (accident-prone locations) to reduce fatalities and improve road safety outcomes.
The SC directed the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to establish an inter-state safety committee for standardised enforcement, including uniform driving-hour limits and penalty frameworks across states.
Additional directions include banning illegal parking on highways, ensuring emergency response systems at regular intervals, and providing safe parking and rest facilities for drivers, improving overall highway safety.
Genome India Project (GIP) Findings
A recent study based on data from the Genome India Project (GIP) reveals 44 million unique genetic variants in the Indian population, highlighting its vast genetic diversity.
Key Findings of the Study
The study identified over 129 million genetic variants (differences in DNA sequences among individuals), reflecting the complexity of India’s genetic makeup.
It found that endogamy (marriage within a specific social or community group) has led to the formation of genetically distinct and relatively isolated populations.
The study highlights contrasting population dynamics, where non-tribal populations show greater genetic mixing and growth, while tribal populations exhibit low effective population size (number of individuals contributing genes), high genetic drift (random genetic changes), and strong founder effects (rare variants becoming common due to isolation).
About Genome India Project (GIP)
The Genome India Project (GIP) was launched in 2020 by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science and Technology, as India’s counterpart to the global Human Genome Project (1990–2003).
Its objective is to create a comprehensive catalogue of genetic variations that accurately reflects the diversity of the Indian population.
The project collected samples from 10,000 healthy and unrelated individuals, representing 83 population groups across four major linguistic families—Indo-European, Dravidian, Austro-Asiatic, and Tibeto-Burman.
Significance of GIP
In healthcare, it enables better disease prediction, early diagnosis, and population-specific treatments, especially by identifying genetic patterns linked to endogamy-related diseases.
It helps reduce global data bias, as existing genomic databases are heavily dominated by European populations, making Indian-specific data crucial.
It also strengthens research and development (R&D) by boosting India’s contribution to the global genomics and biotechnology ecosystem.
Key Concepts
A genome refers to the complete set of genetic material (DNA or RNA) present in an organism, carrying all biological information.
Genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete sequence of an organism’s genetic material, enabling detailed study of genetic variations.
India’s First Advanced 3D Semiconductor Packaging Unit
The foundation stone has been laid for India’s first Advanced 3D Semiconductor Packaging Unit in Bhubaneswar, marking a key milestone in strengthening the domestic semiconductor ecosystem under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
The facility will operate as a vertically integrated ATMP unit (Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging—final stage of chip manufacturing), enhancing India’s capabilities in semiconductor value chains.
Need and Significance of Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing
Promoting domestic manufacturing reduces import dependence, as India currently imports over 90% of its semiconductor requirements, exposing it to external risks.
It supports supply chain diversification, given that nearly 70% of global semiconductor production is concentrated in countries like South Korea, Taiwan, China, United States, and Japan.
It provides a boost to emerging sectors such as data centres, Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, 5G/6G communications, defence, aerospace, and advanced electronics, which depend heavily on semiconductors.
It enhances economic security by reducing vulnerability to global chip shortages, as seen during disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine conflict.
Key Initiatives Supporting Semiconductor Industry
The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and Semicon India Programme aim to build a comprehensive semiconductor and display ecosystem, positioning India as a global hub.
Talent development initiatives such as the Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme and AICTE curriculum updates focus on skilling engineers in semiconductor technologies.
Indigenous technology initiatives, including Microprocessor Development Programme and Digital India RISC-V Programme, have led to the creation of native processors like SHAKTI, VIKRAM, and DHRUV64.
Global collaborations such as the India–U.S. Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) and the U.S.-led Pax Silica Initiative enhance technology partnerships and knowledge sharing.
State-level policies like the Gujarat Semiconductor Policy 2022–27 further support investment and ecosystem development.
Additional schemes such as SPECS (Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors) and ECMS (Electronics Components and Manufacturing Scheme) provide financial and policy support to the sector.
Petroglyph Conservation Park in Ladakh
The foundation stone has been laid for India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park on the banks of the Indus River in Ladakh, aiming to preserve ancient rock carvings under threat.
The park is intended to act as a dedicated conservation space for centuries-old petroglyphs, which are increasingly endangered due to unregulated tourism, rapid infrastructure development, and lack of awareness.
About Petroglyphs
Petroglyphs are prehistoric carvings, images, or symbols etched, pecked, or engraved directly onto rock surfaces, representing early human expression.
They are often described as “open-air museums” and “civilisations carved on stone”, as they provide a continuous historical record from the Palaeolithic Age (early Stone Age) to later periods.
These carvings offer insights into ancient trade routes, migration patterns, belief systems, and ecological histories, making them valuable archaeological resources.
Major Petroglyph Sites in India
Prominent petroglyph sites in India include Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Ratnagiri, and the Gawilgarh Hills, showcasing rich prehistoric heritage across regions.
Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC)
Recently the Indian foreign minister attended the AZEC Plus.
About AZEC (2023)
It is a regional platform that promotes cooperation for achieving carbon neutrality in Asia through country-specific pathways, while ensuring economic growth and energy security.
Members: Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
India is an AZEC Partner Country.
Samudra Manthan Mission (National Deep Water Exploration Mission)
The Samudra Manthan Mission, announced by the Prime Minister in 2025, is India’s National Deep Water Exploration Mission, aimed at strengthening deep-sea exploration and energy security.
About Samudra Manthan Mission
The mission will be implemented in a mission mode (time-bound, goal-oriented execution framework) to ensure focused and coordinated progress.
Its primary objective is to explore offshore oil and gas reserves in deep-water regions, reducing dependence on energy imports.
The mission also aims to advance scientific research and technological innovation, particularly in areas such as underwater exploration and marine resource mapping.
It will contribute to the development of underwater engineering capabilities, strengthening India’s expertise in deep-sea technologies.
Significance of the Mission
The initiative enhances energy security by diversifying sources of hydrocarbons through deep-sea exploration.
It supports technological self-reliance in strategic sectors like offshore drilling and marine engineering.
Additionally, it contributes to scientific knowledge and ocean research, aligning with broader goals of sustainable utilisation of marine resources.
Genetically Modified (GM) Mosquitoes
Recent research has confirmed that Genetically Modified (GM) mosquitoes can effectively suppress malaria parasites in real-world conditions, offering a potential breakthrough in disease control.
About GM Mosquitoes
GM mosquitoes are those whose DNA has been deliberately altered using advanced biotechnology to modify specific traits, either to reduce mosquito populations or block disease transmission (e.g., malaria spread).
This modification is achieved through Gene Drive technology, which ensures that the altered gene is inherited by a large proportion of offspring, increasing its spread within the population.
Gene Drive systems often use tools like CRISPR-Cas9, enabling the modified gene to be passed on to up to ~90% of offspring, far higher than normal genetic inheritance rates.
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Scheme
India has extended OCI card eligibility in Sri Lanka up to the sixth generation, expanding outreach to the Indian diaspora.
About OCI Scheme
The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Scheme was introduced in 2005 through an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955, to strengthen ties with people of Indian origin abroad.
It provides a form of long-term residency status (not full citizenship) for eligible foreign nationals of Indian origin.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility includes persons who were eligible to become Indian citizens, spouses of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) (now merged into OCI category).
However, exceptions apply, as individuals whose parents or grandparents were citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh (or other notified countries) are not eligible.
Additionally, foreign military or police personnel (serving or retired) are excluded from eligibility.
Benefits of OCI Cardholders
OCI cardholders are granted a lifelong multiple-entry visa, allowing them to visit India without repeated visa applications.
They enjoy parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in certain financial, economic, and educational matters, except in areas like purchase of agricultural or plantation land.
However, for specific activities such as research or protected area visits, prior special permission from the government is required.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of PMGSY-III till March 2028, reinforcing the government’s commitment to rural connectivity and infrastructure development.
About PMGSY
The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) was launched on December 25, 2000 as a flagship Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Rural Development.
Its primary objective is to alleviate poverty by providing all-weather road connectivity (roads usable throughout the year) to unconnected rural habitations.
The scheme targets habitations with a population of 500 or more in plain areas and 250 or more in special category regions (North-East, Himalayan states, desert areas, and backward districts).
Key Phases of PMGSY
Phase I (2000) focused on providing initial connectivity to eligible unconnected habitations, laying the foundation of rural road infrastructure.
Phase II (2013) shifted focus to upgrading 50,000 km of existing rural roads to improve connectivity to economic centres and markets.
Under a special component for Left Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected areas (2016), the scheme targeted 44 districts across 9 states, improving both development and security mobility.
Phase III (2019) aimed at upgrading 1,25,000 km of Through Routes and Major Rural Links, connecting villages to agricultural markets, higher secondary schools, and hospitals, and has now been extended till March 2028.
Phase IV (2024–25 to 2028–29) aims to construct 62,500 km of roads to connect 25,000 additional unconnected habitations, expanding coverage further.
Impact of PMGSY
As of 2025, over 8,25,114 km of rural roads have been sanctioned, with a completion rate of nearly 95%, indicating strong implementation.
The scheme has led to increased non-farm employment, including greater participation of women in the workforce, improving rural livelihoods.
It has improved agricultural outcomes, enabling farmers to access distant markets and secure better prices for their produce.
Enhanced connectivity has also improved social indicators, including higher institutional births, better immunisation rates, increased school access, and improved access to banking services.
Other Features of PMGSY
The scheme follows decentralised planning, with District Rural Roads Plans (DRRP) prepared by District Panchayats, ensuring local participation.
It integrates technology and sustainability, using tools like e-MARG (monitoring system for post-construction maintenance), GPS tracking, and green technologies (use of waste plastics and fly ash in road construction).
Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)
The Government has approved procurement of potatoes under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) to prevent distress sales by farmers during price crashes.
About Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)
The MIS is a component of the PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan), designed specifically for perishable agricultural commodities such as tomato, onion, and potato, which are not covered under MSP (Minimum Support Price) or PSS (Price Support Scheme).
Originally launched in 1983, the MIS was later subsumed under PM-AASHA in 2024, integrating it into a broader farmer income protection framework.
The scheme is implemented by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, usually on the request of State Governments, ensuring responsiveness to local conditions.
Its main objective is to prevent distress sales (forced selling at low prices due to excess supply) during bumper production and price crashes.
Operational Conditions and Financial Mechanism
MIS is activated when there is either a production increase of at least 10% or a price decline of at least 10% compared to normal levels, indicating market stress.
The financial burden of procurement losses is shared between the Centre and States in a 50:50 ratio, while for North-Eastern states, the ratio is 75:25, providing additional support to these regions.
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