πŸ“° Today's Current AffairsRead Now →
📷 Follow on Instagram

PSC Chronicles Team

Why is Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026 in News?

Andhra Pradesh government has announced the launch of the Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026 for DWCRA women.

  • The scheme aims to provide low-interest financial assistance for daughters’ marriage expenses.
  • It will be implemented through SERP and Stree Nidhi with budgetary support from the State government.
Kalyana Laxmi scheme

Key Facts:

FeatureDetails
Scheme NameKalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026
StateAndhra Pradesh
BeneficiariesDWCRA women
PurposeFinancial support for daughters’ marriage expenses
Loan Amountβ‚Ή10,000 to β‚Ή1,00,000
Interest Rate4% annual interest (Pavala Vaddi)
Repayment PeriodUp to 48 monthly installments
Implementing AgenciesSociety for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP) and Stree Nidhi
Budget Allocationβ‚Ή250 crore
Financial Year2026–27
Expected Beneficiaries25,000 women

Significance of the Scheme

The scheme is aimed at improving financial access for DWCRA women by providing affordable credit support. The Pavala Vaddi loans under the Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026 may reduce dependence on informal borrowing for marriage-related expenses.

Quick Revision Points

  • Andhra Pradesh announced the Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026
  • Scheme targets DWCRA women
  • Loan amount ranges from β‚Ή10,000 to β‚Ή1,00,000
  • Interest rate fixed at 4% annually
  • Repayment allowed in 48 monthly installments
  • Implemented through SERP Andhra Pradesh and Stree Nidhi
  • Budget allocation for 2026–27 is β‚Ή250 crore
  • Scheme aims to benefit 25,000 beneficiaries

Practice MCQs

  1. The Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026 in Andhra Pradesh is primarily intended for:
    A. Farmers
    B. Students
    C. DWCRA women
    D. Senior citizens
  2. What is the annual interest rate under the Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026?
    A. 2%
    B. 4%
    C. 6%
    D. 8%
  3. Which agencies will implement the Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026?
    A. NABARD and RBI
    B. DRDO and ISRO
    C. SERP and Stree Nidhi
    D. SIDBI and SEBI
  4. What is the maximum repayment period under the scheme?
    A. 24 months
    B. 36 months
    C. 48 months
    D. 60 months

To study more current affairs from exam point of view Click here

Why is Kalyana Laxmi Scheme 2026 in News? Read More Β»

Why is the International Big Cat Alliance Summit in News?

India will host the inaugural International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit from June 1–3, 2026 in New Delhi. Around 95 countries are expected to participate in the event.

  • The International Big Cat Alliance Summit is likely to adopt the first-ever global declaration on big cat conservation, called the Delhi Declaration.
  • The declaration aims to strengthen international cooperation, encourage landscape-based conservation, and improve protection of big cat habitats across borders.
International Big cat alliance summit

What is the International Big Cat Alliance Summit?

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation headquartered in New Delhi. It was established to promote global cooperation for the conservation of seven major big cat species.

Big Cat Species Covered Under IBCA

Big Cat SpeciesScientific/Regional Importance
TigerIndia hosts the world’s largest tiger population
LionAsiatic lions found mainly in Gujarat
LeopardWidely distributed across Asia and Africa
Snow LeopardFound in Himalayan regions
CheetahReintroduced in India under Project Cheetah
JaguarNative to the Americas
PumaAlso known as cougar or mountain lion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?

The IBCA is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation headquartered in New Delhi that focuses on global conservation of seven major big cat species.

Which animals are covered under IBCA?

Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma are covered under the alliance.

What is the Delhi Declaration?

The Delhi Declaration is a proposed global declaration on big cat conservation expected to be adopted during the 2026 IBCA Summit.

Where is the IBCA headquartered?

The headquarters of the IBCA is located in New Delhi, India.

Why are big cats important for biodiversity conservation?

Big cats are apex predators and umbrella species. Their conservation helps protect forests, ecosystems, and other wildlife species.

Practice Questions

  1. Which of the following species is NOT covered under the International Big Cat Alliance?
    a) Jaguar
    b) Puma
    c) Wolf
    d) Snow Leopard
  2. The headquarters of the International Big Cat Alliance is located in:
    a) Nairobi
    b) Geneva
    c) New Delhi
    d) Kathmandu
  3. What is the proposed declaration expected from the inaugural IBCA Summit?
    a) Rio Declaration
    b) Delhi Declaration
    c) Kyoto Declaration
    d) Nairobi Protocol
  4. Which ministry-related theme is most associated with the International Big Cat Alliance?
    a) Renewable Energy
    b) Wildlife Conservation
    c) Maritime Security
    d) Space Research

To study more about International Big cat alliance click here

To study more about current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

Why is the International Big Cat Alliance Summit in News? Read More Β»

Why is the Vande Mataram Insult Law in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 to make any insult to or obstruction during the singing of Vande Mataram a punishable offence.

The proposed amendment aims to provide legal protection to the National Song, similar to the respect accorded to the National Anthem and the National Flag.

About Vande Mataram

Composer and Origin

Vande Mataram was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875.

  • Language: A mix of Sanskrit and Bengali
  • Literary Source: Included in the novel Anandamath (1882)

The novel was based on the backdrop of:

  • Sanyasi Rebellion
  • Bengal Famine of 1770

Historical Importance of Vande Mataram

Role in Freedom Struggle

The song became a symbol of nationalism during the Indian freedom movement.

During the Swadeshi Movement of 1905, Vande Mataram inspired people to oppose British rule and promote indigenous products.

Revolutionary leaders such as Sri Aurobindo regarded it as a spiritual and patriotic call for self-rule.

First Public Rendition

The song was first publicly sung by Rabindranath Tagore at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta.

Global Recognition

In 1907, Madam Bhikaji Cama unfurled the first Indian tricolour on foreign soil at Stuttgart, Germany, with the words β€œVande Mataram” inscribed on the flag.

Constitutional and Legal Status of Vande Mataram

Recognition as National Song

On January 24, 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, President of the Constituent Assembly, announced that Vande Mataram would receive equal respect along with the National Anthem – Jana Gana Mana.

Thus:

  • Jana Gana Mana became the National Anthem
  • Vande Mataram came to be recognised as the National Song

Constitutional Position

Unlike the National Anthem, the term β€œNational Song” is not specifically mentioned in the Constitution of India.

However, it enjoys immense historical and cultural importance.

Practice Questions

  1. Who composed the song Vande Mataram?
    • a) Rabindranath Tagore
    • b) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
    • c) Sri Aurobindo
    • d) Bipin Chandra Pal
  2. Vande Mataram was included in which famous novel?
    • a) Gitanjali
    • b) Anandamath
    • c) Durgeshnandini
    • d) Kapalkundala
  3. Which Act is proposed to be amended to punish insults to Vande Mataram?
    • a) National Security Act
    • b) Representation of the People Act
    • c) Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
    • d) Citizenship Act
  4. Who first sang Vande Mataram at the Indian National Congress session in 1896?
    • a) Mahatma Gandhi
    • b) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
    • c) Rabindranath Tagore
    • d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  5. Which Article of the Constitution deals with Fundamental Duties?
    • a) Article 19
    • b) Article 32
    • c) Article 51A
    • d) Article 356

To study current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

Why is the Vande Mataram Insult Law in News? Read More Β»

Why is the Supreme Court Judges Increase in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the Supreme Court Judges Increase proposal, raising the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court of India from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI).

The decision was taken to address the growing burden of pending cases in the judiciary. At present, nearly 92,000 cases are pending before the Supreme Court, creating delays in justice delivery.

Key Highlights of Supreme Court Judges Increase

Increase in Judicial Strength

  • Existing sanctioned strength: 34 judges
  • New proposed strength: 38 judges
  • Increase approved by: Union Cabinet
  • Objective: Faster disposal of pending cases

The move is expected to strengthen the efficiency of the apex court and reduce judicial delays.

Why Was the Increase Needed?

India’s judiciary has been facing a significant backlog of cases for several years. The Supreme Court, being the highest judicial authority, handles:

  • Constitutional matters
  • Appeals from High Courts
  • Public Interest Litigations (PILs)
  • Centre-State disputes
  • Fundamental Rights cases

The rising number of litigations and increasing complexity of cases have led to the need for more judges.

Constitutional Basis for Supreme Court Judges Increase

Article 124 of the Constitution

The power to determine the number of judges in the Supreme Court lies with the Parliament of India.

Under Article 124(1) of the Constitution:

The Supreme Court shall consist of a Chief Justice of India and such number of other judges as Parliament may by law prescribe.

This means the Constitution does not permanently fix the number of judges. Parliament can increase or decrease the strength through legislation.

Practice Questions

  1. The strength of Supreme Court judges has been increased from 34 to:
    • a) 35
    • b) 36
    • c) 38
    • d) 40
  2. Under which Article does Parliament have the power to determine the number of Supreme Court judges?
    • a) Article 32
    • b) Article 124
    • c) Article 136
    • d) Article 143
  3. The Supreme Court of India was established in:
    • a) 1947
    • b) 1949
    • c) 1950
    • d) 1952
  4. Which institution approved the increase in Supreme Court judges in 2026?
    • a) Parliament
    • b) Supreme Court Collegium
    • c) Union Cabinet
    • d) Law Commission

To study current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

Why is the Supreme Court Judges Increase in News? Read More Β»

Why is the South Coast Railway Zone in News?

The Ministry of Railways has issued a gazette notification for the creation of the South Coast Railway (SCoR), making it India’s 18th railway zone.

  • The newly formed South Coast Railway Zone will have its headquarters at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

The zone is scheduled to become fully operational from June 1, 2026. The move fulfils a long-pending demand of Andhra Pradesh and also implements a commitment made under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.

Key Highlights of South Coast Railway Zone

Formation of the New Zone

The South Coast Railway Zone has been created by reorganising parts of the existing railway zones:

  • South Central Railway (SCR)
  • East Coast Railway (ECoR)

This administrative restructuring aims to improve railway operations, connectivity, and regional development in Andhra Pradesh.

Divisions Included in SCoR

The new railway zone will consist of:

  • Vijayawada Division (transferred from SCR)
  • Guntur Division (transferred from SCR)
  • Guntakal Division (transferred from SCR)
  • Newly formed Visakhapatnam Division

These divisions are strategically important for passenger and freight transportation in South India.

Practice Questions

  1. Which city has been selected as the headquarters of the South Coast Railway Zone?
    • a) Vijayawada
    • b) Visakhapatnam
    • c) Guntur
    • d) Tirupati
  2. The South Coast Railway Zone became India’s ______ railway zone.
    • a) 16th
    • b) 17th
    • c) 18th
    • d) 19th
  3. Which railway division was bifurcated for the creation of the South Coast Railway Zone?
    • a) Vijayawada Division
    • b) Waltair Division
    • c) Guntakal Division
    • d) Secunderabad Division
  4. Under which Act was the commitment for a separate railway zone to Andhra Pradesh made?
    • a) Railway Act, 1989
    • b) Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014
    • c) States Reorganisation Act, 1956
    • d) Indian Railways Act, 2005

To study current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

Why is the South Coast Railway Zone in News? Read More Β»

Komagata Maru Incident (1914) – Key Facts for UPSC & State PSC Prelims

Indian pop star Diljit Dosanjh recently highlighted the 1914 Komagata Maru incident, bringing renewed attention to this significant chapter of Indian colonial and freedom movement history. The incident is important for UPSC and State PSC Prelims under the topics of Modern Indian History and Indian Freedom Struggle.

What Was the Komagata Maru Incident?

The Komagata Maru Incident of 1914 refers to the episode in which Canadian authorities denied entry to 376 Indian migrants β€” mostly Sikhs from Punjab β€” who had travelled to Vancouver, Canada aboard a Japanese steamship named Komagata Maru. The refusal was rooted in Canada’s racially discriminatory immigration laws of the time.

Key Facts at a Glance

DetailInformation
Ship NameKomagata Maru (Japanese steamship)
Year1914
Chartered byBaba Gurdit Singh
Total Passengers376 (mostly Sikhs from Punjab)
RouteHong Kong β†’ Vancouver, Canada
Arrival at VancouverMay 23, 1914
Duration of Standoff~2 months
Return to IndiaSeptember 27, 1914 (Budge Budge, near Kolkata)
Deaths at Budge Budge20 passengers killed in clash with British police
Canadian Apology2016 (PM Justin Trudeau, in Parliament)

Background: Racist Immigration Laws in Canada

In the early 20th century, Canada enacted several discriminatory immigration laws specifically targeting South Asians. The most important among these was the Continuous Journey Regulation of 1908, which required immigrants to travel directly from their country of origin to Canada β€” a rule deliberately designed to exclude Indians, since no direct steamship service existed between India and Canada at the time. This effectively barred most Indian migrants from settling in Canada, despite their status as British subjects.

The Voyage and Two-Month Standoff

Baba Gurdit Singh, a Sikh businessman, chartered the Japanese vessel Komagata Maru to directly challenge these discriminatory immigration laws. The ship departed Hong Kong carrying 376 passengers β€” predominantly Sikhs from Punjab along with some Muslims and Hindus. On arriving at Vancouver on May 23, 1914, Canadian immigration authorities refused to allow the passengers to disembark. A tense two-month standoff followed, during which passengers faced severe shortages of food, water, and basic necessities. Ultimately, the Canadian government forced the ship to return to India without any passengers being permitted to land.

The Budge Budge Tragedy

On September 27, 1914, the Komagata Maru arrived at Budge Budge (near Kolkata, then Calcutta). British colonial authorities, suspicious that the passengers were linked to anti-colonial political agitation and the Ghadar Movement, attempted to escort them directly to Punjab under police custody. This triggered a violent confrontation between the returning passengers and British police, resulting in the deaths of 20 passengers. Several others were arrested and sentenced under sedition laws.

Connection to the Ghadar Movement

The Komagata Maru incident was closely intertwined with the Ghadar Movement β€” an Indian revolutionary organisation founded in 1913 in San Francisco by Lala Har Dayal. The Ghadar Party sought to overthrow British rule in India by organising Indian migrants abroad. British authorities feared that the returning Komagata Maru passengers would fuel revolutionary activities in India, which in part explains the aggressive British response at Budge Budge.

Important Personalities

NameRole / Significance
Baba Gurdit SinghChartered the Komagata Maru; led the voyage as a challenge to racist Canadian immigration laws
Lala Har DayalFounder of the Ghadar Movement (1913), which was linked to the political context of the incident
Justin TrudeauCanadian PM who formally apologised in Parliament in 2016 for Canada’s role in the incident

Canada’s Formal Apology (2016)

In 2016, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered a formal apology in the Canadian Parliament for the Government of Canada’s role in the Komagata Maru incident. This was acknowledged as an act of racial discrimination against Indian β€” particularly Sikh β€” migrants. Earlier, Canadian PM Stephen Harper had expressed regret in 2008, but the 2016 apology by Trudeau was the first formal apology in Parliament.

Key Points to Remember for UPSC & State PSC Prelims

  • Komagata Maru was a Japanese steamship (not Indian-owned)
  • Chartered by Baba Gurdit Singh, a Sikh businessman
  • Carried 376 passengers β€” predominantly Sikhs from Punjab
  • Arrived at Vancouver on May 23, 1914
  • The discriminatory law involved: Continuous Journey Regulation, 1908
  • Standoff lasted approximately 2 months with severe food and water shortage
  • On return, 20 passengers were killed at Budge Budge (near Kolkata) on September 27, 1914
  • Closely linked to the Ghadar Movement (founded 1913, San Francisco, by Lala Har Dayal)
  • Canada formally apologised in 2016 (PM Justin Trudeau, in Parliament)
  • Previously appeared in UPSC Prelims under Modern Indian History / Freedom Struggle

Why This Topic Matters for Prelims

The Komagata Maru incident has featured in UPSC Civil Services Preliminary examinations in the context of the Indian freedom movement and the history of overseas Indian communities. Questions typically focus on the year of the incident, the name of the ship’s charterer (Baba Gurdit Singh), the Continuous Journey Regulation, the deaths at Budge Budge, and the connection to the Ghadar Movement. It also connects to broader themes of racial discrimination, Indian diaspora, and colonial history.

Komagata Maru Incident (1914) – Key Facts for UPSC & State PSC Prelims Read More Β»

Why is Buddha Relics Leh Visit 2026 in News?

The Buddha Relics Leh event has gained national and international attention as the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha have arrived in Leh (Ladakh). This marks a historic spiritual occasion, as these relics are being exhibited outside their permanent home in India for the first time

What are the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Buddha?

  • The relics were originally discovered at Piprahwa (Uttar Pradesh).
  • They are believed to be the mortal remains of Lord Buddha. These relics are considered extremely sacred in Buddhism.
  • Their display in Leh strengthens the spiritual connection between Buddhism and Ladakh.

About Gautama Buddha

  • Gautama Buddha (c. 563–483 BCE) was born as Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (present-day Nepal) to the Sakya clan.
  • He is the founder of Buddhism, one of the world’s major religions.

Key Events in Buddha’s Life

  • Mahabhinishkramana (Renunciation): Left home at age 29.
  • Bodhi (Enlightenment): Attained at 35 under the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya, near River Niranjana.
  • First Sermon (Dhammachakkappavattana): Delivered at Sarnath.
  • Mahaparinirvana (Death): At Kushinagar at age 80 (483 BCE).

Major sects in Buddhism:

  • Hinayana (Theravada):
    Focuses on original teachings of Buddha and individual salvation.
  • Mahayana:
    Emphasizes idol worship, Bodhisattvas, and universal salvation.

Key Differences

  • Theravada is more conservative and text-based.
  • Mahayana is more inclusive and devotional.

Four Buddhist Councils and Their Importance

  • First Council:
    Held at Rajgriha under Ajatashatru; compilation of Sutta Pitaka and Vinaya Pitaka.
  • Second Council:
    Held at Vaishali under Kalasoka; led to split into Theravada and Mahasanghika.
  • Third Council:
    Held at Pataliputra under Ashoka; compilation of Abhidhamma Pitaka.
  • Fourth Council:
    Held in Kashmir under Kanishka; final division into Mahayana and Hinayana.

Important Symbols in Buddhism

  • Birth: Lotus and Bull
  • Renunciation: Horse
  • Enlightenment: Bodhi Tree
  • First Sermon: Dharmachakra (Wheel)
  • Mahaparinirvana: Stupa

Practice Questions

  1. The Piprahwa relics are associated with which religion?
    a) Jainism
    b) Buddhism
    c) Hinduism
    d) Sikhism
  2. Buddha attained enlightenment at which place?
    a) Sarnath
    b) Lumbini
    c) Bodh Gaya
    d) Kushinagar
  3. The First Buddhist Council was held at:
    a) Vaishali
    b) Pataliputra
    c) Rajgriha
    d) Kashmir
  4. Which symbol represents Buddha’s first sermon?
    a) Lotus
    b) Stupa
    c) Wheel
    d) Horse

To study more current affairs from exam point of view: Click here

Why is Buddha Relics Leh Visit 2026 in News? Read More Β»

Why is the Lipulekh Pass Dispute 2026 in News?

The Lipulekh Pass Dispute has come into focus after Nepal objected to India and China planning to conduct the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Lipulekh Pass. The Nepal government, led by Balen Shah, raised concerns over sovereignty and territorial claims.

What is the Lipulekh Pass Dispute?

The Lipulekh Pass Dispute revolves around differing interpretations of the India-Nepal border near the tri-junction area.

Key Points of the Dispute

  • Nepal claims that the Lipulekh Pass falls within its territory based on historical maps and river origins.
  • India maintains that the area has traditionally been under its administrative control.
  • The dispute intensified after India inaugurated a road to Lipulekh in 2020 to facilitate the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
  • The issue also involves China, as the pass connects to Tibet (China-controlled region).

About Lipulekh Pass

Geographical Features

  • Located in Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand.
  • Situated at an altitude of approximately 5,334 meters (17,500 feet).
  • Lies at the tri-junction of India, Nepal, and Tibet (China).
  • Part of the Kumaon Himalayas.

River Association

  • Associated with the Kali River (Mahakali/Sharda).
  • The river forms a major part of the India-Nepal boundary.
  • The origin of this river is central to the boundary dispute.

Strategic and Economic Importance

  • Serves as a key route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
  • Connects India to Taklakot (Purang) in Tibet.
  • Holds strategic military importance due to proximity to China.
  • Facilitates trade and pilgrimage routes.

Historical Background: Treaty of Sugauli

The roots of the Lipulekh Pass Dispute lie in the Treaty of Sugauli.

  • Signed on 2 December 1815.
  • Agreement between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal.
  • Ended the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816).
  • Defined the Kali River as the western boundary of Nepal.

Core Issue

The dispute arises due to different interpretations of the Kali River’s origin:

  • Nepal claims the river originates from Limpiyadhura, placing Lipulekh within Nepal.
  • India considers the origin near Kalapani, placing Lipulekh within Indian territory.

Practice Questions

  1. Which river forms the basis of the India-Nepal boundary dispute in the Lipulekh region?
    a) Ganga
    b) Brahmaputra
    c) Kali River
    d) Indus
  2. The Treaty of Sugauli (1815) was signed between Nepal and which entity?
    a) British Crown
    b) East India Company
    c) Mughal Empire
    d) China
  3. Lipulekh Pass is located in which Indian state?
    a) Himachal Pradesh
    b) Uttarakhand
    c) Sikkim
    d) Arunachal Pradesh
  4. The Lipulekh Pass connects India to which Tibetan town?
    a) Lhasa
    b) Shigatse
    c) Taklakot
    d) Gyantse

To study current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

Why is the Lipulekh Pass Dispute 2026 in News? Read More Β»

Why is Mission Drishti Satellite in News?

The Mission Drishti Satellite has gained attention after its successful launch by Bengaluru-based startup GalaxEye. It was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket by SpaceX from Vandenberg, California. This mission marks a significant milestone in India’s private space sector, showcasing cutting-edge Earth observation technology.

  • The satellite is considered India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite

What is Mission Drishti Satellite?

Mission Drishti Satellite is an advanced Earth observation satellite that uses OptoSAR technology, a unique combination of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Electro-Optical (EO) sensors. This hybrid system enables high-quality imaging in all weather conditions.

Key Features of Mission Drishti Satellite

  • OptoSAR Technology: First satellite globally to combine SAR and EO sensors on a single platform.
  • All-Weather Capability: Can capture images even through clouds and during night-time.
  • High Resolution: Provides images with a resolution of 1.2 to 1.8 metres.
  • Orbit Altitude: Operates at approximately 500 km above Earth.
  • Weight: Around 190 kg, making it the largest private satellite in India.

What is OptoSAR Technology?

Understanding SAR and EO Sensors

  • Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR): Uses microwave signals to capture images regardless of weather or light conditions.
  • Electro-Optical (EO): Uses visible and infrared light for high-resolution daytime imaging.

The integration of both technologies in Mission Drishti allows seamless data collection, improving accuracy and reliability.

Advantages of OptoSAR Technology

  • Continuous monitoring in all weather conditions
  • Improved disaster management capabilities
  • Enhanced border surveillance and security
  • Better agricultural and environmental monitoring

Significance of Mission Drishti Satellite

The launch of Mission Drishti Satellite highlights India’s growing capabilities in the private space sector.

Strategic Importance

  • Strengthens India’s position in space technology innovation
  • Reduces dependence on foreign satellite data
  • Supports national security and disaster management

Economic Importance

  • Boosts the NewSpace ecosystem in India
  • Encourages private investments in the space industry
  • Opens opportunities for commercial satellite services

About GalaxEye

GalaxEye is a Bengaluru-based startup focused on advanced Earth observation technologies. It aims to provide high-resolution, real-time data using innovative satellite systems like Mission Drishti.

The company is part of India’s emerging private space ecosystem, supported by policy reforms and organisations like IN-SPACe.

Practice Questions

  1. Which company developed the Mission Drishti Satellite?
    a) ISRO
    b) DRDO
    c) GalaxEye
    d) HAL
  2. What is the key feature of Mission Drishti Satellite?
    a) Nuclear propulsion
    b) OptoSAR technology
    c) Cryogenic engine
    d) GPS navigation
  3. At what altitude does Mission Drishti Satellite operate?
    a) 200 km
    b) 500 km
    c) 1000 km
    d) 1500 km
  4. What does SAR stand for?
    a) Satellite Analysis Radar
    b) Synthetic Aperture Radar
    c) Space Application Radar
    d) Signal Amplification Radar
  5. Mission Drishti Satellite is important for which sector?
    a) Agriculture only
    b) Defence only
    c) Space and Earth observation
    d) Banking

To study more current affairs from exam point of view, Click here

To Practice static Questions from exam point of view, Click here

Why is Mission Drishti Satellite in News? Read More Β»

INCOIS Wins Disaster Management Award 2025

Why Did INCOIS Win the Disaster Management Award 2025?

Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has been honoured with the prestigious Subhas Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar (SCBAPP) 2025. This award recognizes its exceptional role in disaster management, especially in providing early warning systems for ocean-related hazards.

Key Highlights at a Glance

  • Award: Subhas Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar (SCBAPP) 2025
  • Recipient: INCOIS (Institutional Category)
  • Announced on: January 23, 2025 (Birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose)
  • Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
  • Category: Institutional Award for outstanding disaster management

About INCOIS

  • Full Form: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
  • Established under: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
  • Headquarters: Hyderabad
  • Nature: Autonomous organization

Key Functions:

INCOIS provides life-saving early warning services for tsunamis, storm surges, and high waves. It serves fishermen, coastal communities, and disaster management agencies with real-time ocean information. Its ocean state forecast system and potential fishing zone advisories have made it a critical institution for marine safety and disaster risk reduction across the Indian coastline.

About Subhas Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar (SCBAPP)

The SCBAPP is a national award instituted by the Government of India to honor individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to disaster management in India.

Key Features:

  • Announced on: January 23 every year
  • Occasion: Birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
  • Categories: Individual and Institutional
  • Cash Prize (Institutional): β‚Ή51 lakh
  • Cash Prize (Individual): β‚Ή15 lakh
  • Administered by: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

Significance of INCOIS Winning SCBAPP 2025

India has one of the longest coastlines in the world β€” over 7,500 km β€” making ocean disaster preparedness critical. INCOIS’s early warning systems have directly saved thousands of lives by alerting coastal communities before tsunamis and cyclones strike. Its advanced Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories also help fishermen avoid dangerous sea conditions, reducing accidental deaths at sea. Winning the SCBAPP 2025 underlines the government’s recognition of science-backed disaster management.

Exam Relevance β€” APPSC, TSPSC & UPSC

This topic is highly relevant for APPSC Group 1, Group 2, TGPSC Group 1, and UPSC Prelims and Mains across the following areas: Science & Technology (Ocean Services), Disaster Management, Awards & Honours (Current Affairs), and Environment & Ecology. Expect questions on the full form of INCOIS, the ministry it falls under, the prize amount of SCBAPP, and the date of announcement.

Practice Questions

  1. Which organization won the Subhas Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2025? (Ans: INCOIS)
  2. INCOIS is an autonomous body under which ministry? (Ans: Ministry of Earth Sciences)
  3. On which date is the SCBAPP announced every year? (Ans: January 23)
  4. What is the cash prize for the Institutional category of SCBAPP? (Ans: β‚Ή51 lakh)
  5. Where is the headquarters of INCOIS? (Ans: Hyderabad)

To study more environment and disaster management current affairs from an exam perspective, Click here.

INCOIS Wins Disaster Management Award 2025 Read More Β»