2026 current affairs Archives | Page 2 of 27

Rah-Veer Scheme: Good Samaritan Protection & ₹25,000 Reward | UPSC 2025

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has strengthened Good Samaritan protections through the Rah-Veer scheme, offering legal immunity and ₹25,000 cash reward to citizens who help road accident victims during the critical Golden Hour.

Why in News?

MoRTH has reinforced the Rah-Veer (Good Samaritan) scheme to encourage bystanders to assist road accident victims without fear of legal harassment. This scheme addresses a major deterrent — the fear of police questioning and court proceedings — that prevents people from helping accident victims.

Key Facts for Prelims: Rah-Veer Scheme

Launched by: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
Purpose: Protect and reward Good Samaritans (Rah-Veers) who help road accident victims
Legal Protection: Rah-Veers are free from civil and criminal liability; cannot be unnecessarily detained
Right to Anonymity: Rescuers cannot be compelled to reveal personal details or testify as witnesses
Cash Reward: ₹25,000 + Certificate of Appreciation for assisting within the Golden Hour
National Award: Up to ₹1,00,000 for the best 10 Rah-Veers annually
Legal Basis: Section 134A, Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019

What is the Golden Hour?

The Golden Hour refers to the first 60 minutes after a traumatic injury. Prompt medical care during this period significantly increases survival chances. Most road accident deaths in India occur due to delays in reaching hospitals — the Rah-Veer scheme directly addresses this gap.

Static/Exam Links: Legal Background

Supreme Court 2016 Guidelines: Directed protection of Good Samaritans from police harassment
Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 – Section 134A: Legally recognises and grants immunity to Good Samaritans
Central Motor Vehicles (Good Samaritan) Rules, 2020: Notified under MV Act 2019 to operationalise the protections

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Detail
Scheme	Rah-Veer (Good Samaritan Scheme)
Ministry	MoRTH
Cash Reward	₹25,000 per helper
National Award	Up to ₹1,00,000 (top 10 annually)
Key Protection	Civil + Criminal immunity
Anonymity	Cannot be forced to testify
Golden Hour	First 60 minutes after trauma
Legal Basis	MV Act 2019, Section 134A

Trap / Confusing Points

❌ Common Trap	✅ Correct Fact
Rah-Veer is under MoHFW (Health Ministry)	It is under Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
Reward is ₹1,00,000 per person	₹1,00,000 is only for top 10 nationally; standard reward is ₹25,000
Good Samaritans must testify in court	Rah-Veers have Right to Anonymity; cannot be forced to testify
Golden Hour = 30 minutes	Golden Hour = first 60 minutes after trauma
MV Act 1988 covers Good Samaritan	Good Samaritan provisions added via MV Amendment Act 2019 (Section 134A)

5 Practice MCQs

1. Rah-Veer scheme is implemented by which ministry?
a. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
b. Ministry of Home Affairs
c. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
d. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Ans: C
The Rah-Veer scheme is an initiative of MoRTH to encourage Good Samaritans to help road accident victims.

2. What is the standard cash reward for a Rah-Veer who helps within the Golden Hour?
a. ₹10,000
b. ₹25,000
c. ₹50,000
d. ₹1,00,000
Ans: B
₹25,000 and a Certificate of Appreciation are given to Good Samaritans who successfully assist a victim during the Golden Hour.

3. The “Golden Hour” in road accident context refers to:
a. Best time to drive on highways
b. First 60 minutes after a traumatic injury
c. 24-hour window for filing FIR
d. Average ambulance response time in metro cities
Ans: B
The Golden Hour is the first 60 minutes after trauma, during which timely medical care significantly improves survival chances.

4. Which section of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 protects Good Samaritans?
a. Section 129
b. Section 134A
c. Section 185
d. Section 138
Ans: B
Section 134A of MV Amendment Act 2019 legally protects Good Samaritans from civil and criminal liability when helping accident victims.

5. Under Rah-Veer scheme, maximum national-level award available annually is:
a. ₹25,000 for all
b. ₹50,000 for top 5
c. ₹1,00,000 for top 10
d. ₹2,00,000 for the single best Rah-Veer
Ans: C
A national-level award of up to ₹1,00,000 is given to the best 10 Rah-Veers annually, recognising outstanding service.

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GI Tag Tezpur Litchi: APEDA Exports to Dubai | UPSC Current Affairs 2025

APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) has facilitated the first export of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai, marking a major milestone for agricultural exports from India’s North-Eastern Region.

Why in News?

APEDA facilitated India’s first export of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai, boosting NE India’s export profile and showcasing the value of Geographical Indication (GI) tags for agricultural products.

Key Facts for Prelims: GI Tag

GI tag is an Intellectual Property Right (IPR) identifying products with a specific geographical origin
Governed by: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999
Nodal Ministry: DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Issuing Authority: GI Registry, headquartered in Chennai
Validity: 10 years, renewable indefinitely for successive 10-year periods
International Framework: WTO’s TRIPS Agreement, Articles 22–24
GI tag is a community right, not an individual ownership right

Key Facts for Prelims: APEDA

Statutory body under Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Established: 1985 under the APEDA Act
Promotes and develops exports of “scheduled products” — fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, cereals, organic foods
Plays a key role in facilitating exports from North-Eastern India

Static/Exam Links

TRIPS Agreement (WTO): Articles 22–24 protect Geographical Indications internationally. India has been at the forefront of pushing for stronger GI protections, especially for products like Basmati rice and Darjeeling tea.

Notable NE India GI Tags (Exam-relevant): Assam Muga Silk, Assam Orthodox Tea, Joha Rice (Assam), Chakhao/Manipuri Black Rice, Naga Mircha (King Chilli – Nagaland), Khasi Mandarin (Meghalaya)

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Detail
Act	GI Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999
Nodal Ministry	DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce
Issuing Authority	GI Registry, Chennai
Validity	10 years (renewable)
International Framework	WTO TRIPS (Articles 22–24)
APEDA Established	1985
APEDA Under	Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Tezpur Litchi GI Tag	Assam

Trap / Confusing Points

❌ Common Trap	✅ Correct Fact
GI Registry is in Mumbai	GI Registry is headquartered in Chennai
GI tag is valid for 5 years	Validity is 10 years, renewable
APEDA is under Ministry of Agriculture	APEDA is under Ministry of Commerce and Industry
GI tag = personal/individual ownership	GI tag is a community right; any producer from that region can use it
GI governed by Patent Act	GI has its own Act – GI Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999

5 Practice MCQs

1. Under which ministry does APEDA function?
a. Ministry of Agriculture
b. Ministry of Food Processing
c. Ministry of Commerce and Industry
d. Ministry of External Affairs
Ans: C
APEDA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established in 1985 under the APEDA Act.

2. The Geographical Indications Registry of India is located in:
a. Mumbai
b. New Delhi
c. Chennai
d. Kolkata
Ans: C
The GI Registry is headquartered in Chennai and is the sole authority for granting GI tags in India.

3. GI tags in India are governed by which act?
a. Patents Act, 1970
b. Trade Marks Act, 1999
c. GI Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999
d. APEDA Act, 1985
Ans: C
India enacted the GI Goods Act in 1999 in compliance with WTO’s TRIPS Agreement obligations.

4. At the international level, GIs are protected under which WTO agreement?
a. GATS
b. Agreement on Agriculture
c. TRIPS
d. TBT Agreement
Ans: C
TRIPS Articles 22–24 provide the international legal framework for protection of Geographical Indications.

5. What is the validity period of a GI tag in India?
a. 5 years, non-renewable
b. 10 years, non-renewable
c. 10 years, renewable
d. Lifetime validity
Ans: C
A GI tag in India is valid for 10 years from the date of grant and can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.

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IN-SPACe Opens LVM3 to Private Sector

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Science and Technology Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has officially invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from the private sector for Technology Transfer (ToT) and end-to-end commercialization of ISRO’s LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-III) — India’s most powerful indigenous rocket.

Why in News?

IN-SPACe has opened the LVM3 rocket to India’s private space sector by inviting EoIs for Technology Transfer and full commercialization. This marks a major step in India’s space privatisation journey under the Indian Space Policy 2023.

Key Facts for Prelims: About IN-SPACe

Established in 2020 by a government order (not a parliamentary act)
An autonomous body under the Department of Space (DoS)
Functions as a single-window agency to facilitate, promote, and regulate space activities by Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs)
Distinct from ISRO — IN-SPACe regulates and promotes; ISRO does R&D

Key Facts for Prelims: About LVM3

Previously known as GSLV Mk-III
India’s heaviest and most powerful indigenous launch vehicle
Type: 3-Stage Launch Vehicle

Stage	Component	Type
Stage 1	S200 (twin strap-on)	Solid Boosters
Stage 2	L110	Core Liquid Stage
Stage 3	C25	Cryogenic Upper Stage

GTO Payload: 4,000 kg (4 tonnes)
LEO Payload: 8,000 kg (8 tonnes)
Key Missions: Chandrayaan-3 (2023), OneWeb/Eutelsat commercial satellite launches

Static/Exam Links: Indian Space Policy 2023

Clearly delineates roles: ISRO (R&D + national security), IN-SPACe (regulator + promoter for private sector), NSIL (commercial arm for ISRO technologies), DoS (policy oversight)
NSIL ≠ IN-SPACe: NSIL commercialises ISRO tech; IN-SPACe promotes and regulates private entities

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Detail
Body	IN-SPACe
Under	Department of Space (DoS)
LVM3 Former Name	GSLV Mk-III
Stage 1	Solid Boosters (S200)
Stage 2	Core Liquid Stage (L110)
Stage 3	Cryogenic Upper Stage (C25)
GTO Payload	4,000 kg
LEO Payload	8,000 kg

Trap / Confusing Points

❌ Common Trap	✅ Correct Fact
IN-SPACe is a part of ISRO	IN-SPACe is an autonomous body under DoS, separate from ISRO
LVM3 uses only liquid stages	Stage 1 uses solid boosters (S200); liquid is only Stage 2
LVM3 = GSLV Mk-II	LVM3 was formerly GSLV Mk-III, not Mk-II
NSIL promotes private sector	NSIL commercialises ISRO tech; IN-SPACe promotes/regulates private entities

5 Practice MCQs

1. Which body invited EoIs for commercialisation of LVM3?
a. ISRO
b. NSIL
c. IN-SPACe
d. DoS directly
Ans: C
IN-SPACe is the authorised single-window agency to promote private participation in India’s space sector, including ToT for LVM3.

2. LVM3 was formerly known as:
a. GSLV Mk-I
b. PSLV-XL
c. GSLV Mk-II
d. GSLV Mk-III
Ans: D
LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-III) was renamed from GSLV Mk-III to emphasise its distinct vehicle class.

3. Which stage of LVM3 uses cryogenic technology?
a. Stage 1 (S200)
b. Stage 2 (L110)
c. Stage 3 (C25)
d. All three stages
Ans: C
C25 is the cryogenic upper stage using liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. India developed this indigenously after technology denial.

4. What is LVM3’s payload capacity to LEO?
a. 4 tonnes
b. 6 tonnes
c. 8 tonnes
d. 10 tonnes
Ans: C
LVM3 can carry up to 8,000 kg (8 tonnes) to Low Earth Orbit and 4,000 kg to GTO.

5. IN-SPACe was established under which provision?
a. Space Activities Bill 2017
b. Indian Space Policy 2023
c. ISRO Act 1969
d. Government executive order in 2020
Ans: D
IN-SPACe was set up in 2020 by a government order, not a parliamentary act. The Indian Space Policy 2023 further defined its role.

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Telangana Tourism Master Plan: 8 Key Zones & 27 STAs | UPSC Notes

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Telangana Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Telangana Tourism Master Plan: 8 Key Zones Announced

Telangana Tourism Minister directed officials to prepare comprehensive master plans for eight key Telangana tourism regions as part of Phase 1 of the state’s broader plan to develop 27 Special Tourism Areas (STAs). This Telangana tourism initiative aims to transform the state into a global tourist destination through heritage, eco-tourism, adventure, and spiritual circuits.

Key Facts for Prelims

Total Special Tourism Areas (STAs) identified: 27
Phase 1 areas: 8 regions (master plans being prepared first)
Ramappa Temple (Warangal): UNESCO World Heritage Site — inscribed in 2021
Pochampally: Famous for Pochampally Ikat sarees — GI-tagged traditional weaving
Nagarjunasagar: One of the world’s largest masonry dams on the Krishna River
Yadadri: Dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy — major spiritual tourism site
Bhadrachalam: Located on the Godavari River; famous for Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple
Adilabad: Tribal belt — part of tiger reserve landscape in northern Telangana

Phase 1 Telangana Tourism Zones — Complete List

#	Zone	Tourism Focus
1	Vikarabad	Eco-tourism and adventure activities
2	Somasila-Alampur	River cruises, water sports & eco-tourism along the Krishna River
3	Warangal-Ramappa	UNESCO World Heritage Site (Ramappa Temple), temples, waterfalls
4	Nagarjunasagar	Spiritual and nature-based tourism
5	Yadadri-Pochampally	Spiritual tourism + traditional handloom (Ikat) promotion
6	Adilabad Tribal Cluster	Immersive tribal culture, tiger landscapes, waterfalls
7	Bhadrachalam	River and religious tourism (Godavari)
8	Kaleshwaram	Eco-tourism and spiritual circuits

Static Linkage — Heritage & GI Tags for Prelims

Ramappa Temple (Rudreswara Temple): Built by Kakatiya dynasty; UNESCO WHS (2021). Located in Mulugu district, Telangana.
Pochampally Ikat: Distinctive resist-dyeing technique before weaving; holds GI tag. Also called “Bhoodan Pochampally” or “Silk City of India.”
Nagarjunasagar Dam: Constructed on Krishna River (1955–1967); used for irrigation and hydro power. Shared between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Kaleshwaram: Apart from the famous lift irrigation project, it hosts a prominent Shiva-Parvati temple at the confluence of Pranahita and Godavari rivers.

Quick Revision Table

Zone	Key Highlight
Vikarabad	Eco-tourism, adventure
Somasila-Alampur	Water sports, river cruises (Krishna River)
Warangal-Ramappa	UNESCO WHS (Ramappa/Rudreswara Temple, 2021)
Nagarjunasagar	World’s largest masonry dam; Krishna River
Yadadri-Pochampally	Spiritual (Lakshmi Narasimha) + Pochampally Ikat (GI tagged)
Adilabad Tribal Cluster	Tribal culture, tiger reserves, waterfalls
Bhadrachalam	Religious tourism; Sita Ramachandra Temple on Godavari
Kaleshwaram	Eco-tourism + Shiva-Parvati temple (Godavari confluence)
Total STAs in Telangana	27 (8 in Phase 1)

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Misconception	Correct Fact
All 27 STAs are being developed simultaneously	Only 8 are taken up in Phase 1; total plan covers 27 STAs
Ramappa is a river or dam	Ramappa (Rudreswara Temple) is a UNESCO WHS in Mulugu district, Telangana
Nagarjunasagar is entirely in Telangana	The dam and reservoir are shared between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
Pochampally is known only for silk	Pochampally Ikat weaving (GI tagged) applies to cotton and silk both
Kaleshwaram refers only to the irrigation project	Kaleshwaram also has a Shiva-Parvati temple at the Pranahita-Godavari confluence
Ramappa Temple inscribed as UNESCO WHS in 2019	Ramappa Temple was inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021

Practice MCQs

1. Ramappa Temple, part of the Telangana tourism master plan, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in which year?

a. 2019
b. 2020
c. 2021
d. 2022

Ans: C

Ramappa Temple (Rudreswara Temple) in Mulugu district, built during the Kakatiya dynasty, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.

2. The Somasila-Alampur Telangana tourism zone focuses on water sports along which river?

a. Godavari
b. Tungabhadra
c. Krishna
d. Bhima

Ans: C

Somasila-Alampur zone targets river cruises and water sports along the Krishna River.

3. Pochampally, under the Yadadri-Pochampally zone, is famous for which GI-tagged craft?

a. Dhokra metal craft
b. Kalamkari textile
c. Pochampally Ikat weaving
d. Bidri work

Ans: C

Pochampally is renowned for Pochampally Ikat — a distinctive resist-dyeing-before-weaving technique that carries a GI tag.

4. How many Special Tourism Areas has Telangana identified in total?

a. 8
b. 15
c. 21
d. 27

Ans: D

Telangana has identified 27 Special Tourism Areas (STAs) in total under its Tourism Policy 2025–2030. Eight zones are in Phase 1.

5. Which describes the Adilabad Tribal Cluster tourism zone?

a. River tourism and heritage temples
b. Tribal culture, tiger landscapes, and waterfalls
c. Handloom and spiritual tourism
d. Adventure water sports and river cruises

Ans: B

The Adilabad Tribal Cluster offers immersive tribal culture, tiger reserve landscapes, and scenic waterfalls in northern Telangana.

Telangana tourism development under the 27 STA framework is a key state affairs topic for TGPSC and UPSC aspirants. The Telangana tourism policy 2025–2030 focuses on heritage, eco-tourism, and tribal culture zones to position the state as a global destination.

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SIPRI Report 2026: India 5th Largest Military Spender | UPSC

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Defence Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

SIPRI Report 2026: India 5th Largest Military Spender

The SIPRI Report 2026 (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute Yearbook), released on June 8, 2026, has ranked India as the 5th largest military spender globally with an expenditure of USD 92.1 billion in 2025 — an 8.9% increase over the previous year. The SIPRI Report 2026 also reveals India holds approximately 190 nuclear warheads as of January 2026, surpassing Pakistan’s ~170.

Key Facts for Prelims

SIPRI = Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (HQ: Stockholm, Sweden)
India’s military spending (2025): USD 92.1 billion → Rank: 5th globally
India’s nuclear warheads (Jan 2026): ~190
Pakistan’s nuclear warheads (Jan 2026): ~170
India’s nuclear modernisation increasingly focuses on long-range missiles capable of reaching China
Total global nuclear weapons (Jan 2026): ~12,187
Of these, 9,745 are in military stockpiles (potentially operationally available)
9 nuclear-armed states: USA, Russia, UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, Israel
Germany entered the Top 4 military spenders — a significant shift in European defence spending

Global Military Spending — Top 5 (2025)

Rank	Country	Expenditure (2025)	Note
1st	USA	USD 954 billion	33% of global total; 7.5% lower than 2024
2nd	China	USD 336 billion	—
3rd	Russia	USD 190 billion	—
4th	Germany	~USD 88+ billion	Newly entered top 5
5th	India	USD 92.1 billion	8.9% increase over 2024

India’s Nuclear Doctrine — Static Linkage

No First Use (NFU): India will not be the first to use nuclear weapons.
Credible Minimum Deterrence: Maintain only the minimum arsenal needed for deterrence.
Massive Retaliation: If attacked with nuclear weapons, India will respond with overwhelming force.
India is NOT a signatory to the NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty).
India’s nuclear triad: Land (Agni series) + Sea (INS Arihant — SSBN) + Air (aircraft-delivered).
India is a member of MTCR, Wassenaar Arrangement, Australia Group; NOT yet a full NSG member.

Quick Revision Table

Topic	Key Fact
India’s military spending rank	5th globally (USD 92.1 billion, 2025)
India’s nuclear warheads	~190 (January 2026)
Pakistan’s nuclear warheads	~170 (January 2026)
Largest military spender	USA (USD 954 billion — 33% of global total)
2nd largest military spender	China (USD 336 billion)
4th largest military spender	Germany (newly entered top 5)
Total global nuclear weapons	~12,187 (of which 9,745 in military stockpiles)
Number of nuclear-armed states	9 states
India’s nuclear doctrine	No First Use + Credible Minimum Deterrence
SIPRI headquarters	Stockholm, Sweden

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Misconception	Correct Fact
India is the 4th largest military spender	Germany is 4th; India is 5th as per SIPRI Report 2026
All 12,187 nuclear weapons are operational	Only 9,745 are in military stockpiles; not all deployed
India follows a First-Use nuclear policy	India follows “No First Use” (NFU) policy
SIPRI is a UN body	SIPRI is an independent institute, not affiliated with the UN
India is a member of the NSG	India’s NSG bid is ongoing since 2016; NOT yet a member
Iran is a nuclear-armed state per SIPRI	SIPRI lists 9 nuclear states; Iran is NOT among them

Practice MCQs

1. According to SIPRI Report 2026, which country was the largest military spender in 2025?

a. China
b. Russia
c. USA
d. India

Ans: C

The USA remained the largest military spender with USD 954 billion in 2025, accounting for 33% of total global military expenditure.

2. As per SIPRI Report 2026, India’s nuclear warhead count as of January 2026 was approximately:

a. 170
b. 180
c. 190
d. 200

Ans: C

India holds ~190 nuclear warheads as of January 2026, compared to Pakistan’s estimated 170.

3. Which of the following is NOT one of the nine nuclear-armed states identified by SIPRI?

a. North Korea
b. Israel
c. Iran
d. Pakistan

Ans: C

SIPRI identifies nine nuclear states: USA, Russia, UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel. Iran is NOT in this list.

4. What does SIPRI stand for?

a. Stockholm Institute for Peace Research and Intelligence
b. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute
c. Strategic International Policy Research Initiative
d. Security and International Peace Research Institution

Ans: B

SIPRI = Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

5. Which correctly describes India’s nuclear doctrine?

a. First Use + Massive Retaliation
b. No First Use + Credible Minimum Deterrence
c. Launch on Warning + Maximum Deterrence
d. Flexible Response + No First Use

Ans: B

India’s doctrine: “No First Use” (NFU) + “Credible Minimum Deterrence.” India will not initiate a nuclear strike but assures massive retaliation if attacked.

The SIPRI Report 2026 highlights the shifting global security landscape, with India’s rising defence expenditure reflecting its strategic priorities. For UPSC aspirants, the SIPRI Report 2026 is a recurring source of questions on military spending, nuclear arsenals, and international security.

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SIPRI Report 2026: India 5th Largest Military Spender | UPSC Read More »

Kirti Chakra Awarded to Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair: Gaganyaan | UPSC Notes

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, National Current Affairs, Science and Technology Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Kirti Chakra Awarded to Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair

Air Commodore Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair has been awarded the prestigious Kirti Chakra by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Kirti Chakra — India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award — was conferred for his extraordinary contribution as backup astronaut on the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, India’s maiden journey to the International Space Station (ISS).

Key Facts for Prelims

Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair served as the backup astronaut on Axiom-4; Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was the primary astronaut.
Shukla became the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian in space overall (after Rakesh Sharma, 1984).
Gallantry awards are announced on Republic Day (26 Jan) and Independence Day (15 Aug), presented by the President of India.
Peacetime gallantry awards are for conspicuous bravery away from the battlefield (not in direct face of the enemy).

Gaganyaan Mission — Static Linkage for Prelims

India’s Gaganyaan is the country’s first human spaceflight programme, managed by ISRO. It aims to send Indian astronauts to a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at 400 km and return them safely.

Four Gaganyaan Astronaut-Designates:

Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair
Group Captain Ajit Krishnan
Group Captain Angad Pratap
Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla

India’s Peacetime Gallantry Awards — Complete Hierarchy

These awards follow a three-tier structure, each having a wartime counterpart:

Award	Rank	Wartime Counterpart
Ashoka Chakra	1st (Highest)	Param Vir Chakra
Kirti Chakra	2nd	Maha Vir Chakra
Shaurya Chakra	3rd	Vir Chakra

Quick Revision Table

Topic	Key Fact
Award received by Prasanth Nair	Kirti Chakra
Mission he was associated with	Axiom-4 (Ax-4) — backup astronaut
Primary Indian astronaut on Axiom-4	Shubhanshu Shukla
First Indian to visit ISS	Shubhanshu Shukla
Second Indian in space overall	Shubhanshu Shukla (first was Rakesh Sharma, 1984)
Gaganyaan orbit target	LEO at 400 km
Number of Gaganyaan astronaut-designates	4
Ashoka Chakra — rank	Highest peacetime gallantry award
Gallantry award announcement occasions	Republic Day & Independence Day

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Misconception	Correct Fact
Ashoka Chakra and Param Vir Chakra are similar in rank	Ashoka Chakra = highest PEACETIME; Param Vir Chakra = highest WARTIME
Shubhanshu Shukla was the backup on Axiom-4	He was the PRIMARY astronaut; Prasanth Nair was the backup
Gaganyaan has been launched with crew	Gaganyaan crewed mission planned for 2027; Ax-4 was a separate commercial mission
Kirti Chakra is only for military	It can be awarded to civilians too, for non-battlefield bravery
Rakesh Sharma visited the ISS	Rakesh Sharma flew to Salyut-7 (1984), NOT the ISS

Practice MCQs

1. Which of the following is the highest peacetime gallantry award in India?

a. Kirti Chakra
b. Param Vir Chakra
c. Ashoka Chakra
d. Shaurya Chakra

Ans: C

The Ashoka Chakra is India’s highest peacetime gallantry award. Param Vir Chakra is its wartime counterpart.

2. Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair was awarded the Kirti Chakra for his role in which mission?

a. Gaganyaan Test Flight
b. Chandrayaan-3
c. Axiom-4 (Ax-4) Mission
d. PSLV-C60

Ans: C

He served as the backup astronaut on Axiom-4 which carried Shubhanshu Shukla to the ISS.

3. Which Indian astronaut became the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS)?

a. Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair
b. Ajit Krishnan
c. Rakesh Sharma
d. Shubhanshu Shukla

Ans: D

Shubhanshu Shukla was Mission Pilot on Axiom-4, making him the first Indian to visit the ISS. Rakesh Sharma (1984) went to the Soviet Salyut-7 station, not the ISS.

4. India’s Gaganyaan mission targets which altitude in Low Earth Orbit?

a. 200 km
b. 400 km
c. 600 km
d. 36,000 km

Ans: B

Gaganyaan targets LEO at approximately 400 km altitude — the same orbital range as the ISS.

5. Gallantry awards in India are announced on which occasions?

a. Republic Day and Armed Forces Flag Day
b. Independence Day and National Technology Day
c. Republic Day and Independence Day
d. Gandhi Jayanti and Republic Day

Ans: C

Gallantry awards are announced on Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) and presented by the President of India.

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New IIP Series 2022-23: Key Changes in Index of Industrial Production – UPSC Prelims

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Indian Economy Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Why in News?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has revised the base year of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) from 2011–12 to 2022–23, marking the 10th revision in the index’s history. The new series also adds a brand-new sector and updates weights to better reflect India’s current industrial structure.

What is the Index of Industrial Production (IIP)?

IIP is a composite index that measures the change in volume of production in Indian industries over a reference period. It compares monthly production values against the same month in the base year to track industrial health.

Released by: National Statistical Office (NSO) under MoSPI
Frequency: Monthly (with a 6-week lag)
Old three core sectors: Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity

Key Changes in the New IIP Series (Base Year 2022–23)

1. Revised Base Year

New base year: 2022–23 (revised from 2011–12)
This is the 10th revision of the IIP base year

2. Expanded Sectoral Coverage — New Sector Added

Old series: 3 sectors — Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity
New series: 4 sectors — Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity + Gas Supply and Water Supply, Sewerage & Waste Management (entirely new sector added)

3. Updated Weights

Weights updated based on Gross Value Added (GVA) from National Accounts Statistics (base 2022–23) at sectoral level
Also based on Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) at NIC-2/3/4-digit for 2022–23

Historical Base Year Revisions of IIP

The IIP has been revised 10 times since its first preparation with base year 1937:

1937 → 1946 → 1951 → 1956 → 1960 → 1970 → 1980–81 → 1993–94 → 2004–05 → 2011–12 → 2022–23

Interconnected Static Concepts for Prelims

NSO and MoSPI

National Statistical Office (NSO): Formed in 2019 by merger of Central Statistical Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)
MoSPI: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation — apex body for official statistics in India

Key Economic Indices released by NSO/MoSPI

IIP — industrial production volume
GDP/GVA — national accounts
CPI — Consumer Price Index
Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) — census of registered factories

GVA vs. GDP

GDP = GVA + Net Taxes on products
GVA measures value created by industries; GDP includes net taxes

National Industrial Classification (NIC)

Used to classify industrial/economic activities in India
Latest: NIC 2008 — aligned with ISIC Rev. 4 (International Standard Industrial Classification)

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Key Fact
Index	Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
Released by	NSO under MoSPI
Old Base Year	2011–12
New Base Year	2022–23
Revision Number	10th revision
First IIP Base Year	1937
Old Sectors Covered	Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity (3 sectors)
New Sector Added	Gas Supply and Water Supply, Sewerage & Waste Management
Total Sectors (New Series)	4 sectors
Weight Basis	GVA from National Accounts + ASI data (2022–23)
NSO Formed	2019 (merger of CSO and NSSO)

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Confusion	Correct Fact
IIP is released by RBI	❌ Released by NSO under MoSPI (not RBI)
IIP base year revision is the 9th	❌ The 2022–23 revision is the 10th revision
First IIP was in 1946	❌ First IIP was prepared with base year 1937
IIP now covers only 3 sectors	❌ New series covers 4 sectors (Gas Supply & Water Supply added)
GVA = GDP	❌ GDP = GVA + Net Taxes on products; GVA excludes net taxes
NSO is the old CSO	❌ NSO = Merger of CSO + NSSO (formed 2019)

Practice MCQs

1. The new base year of IIP revised by MoSPI is:
a. 2011–12
b. 2017–18
c. 2020–21
d. 2022–23

Ans: D
MoSPI revised the IIP base year from 2011–12 to 2022–23. This is the 10th revision in IIP’s history since its first base year of 1937.

2. Which new sector has been incorporated into IIP under the new 2022–23 base year series?
a. Agriculture and Allied Activities
b. Construction
c. Gas Supply and Water Supply, Sewerage & Waste Management
d. Financial Services

Ans: C
The new IIP adds “Gas Supply and Water Supply, Sewerage & Waste Management” as a 4th sector, alongside existing Mining, Manufacturing, and Electricity sectors.

3. IIP is released by which organisation?
a. Reserve Bank of India
b. NITI Aayog
c. National Statistical Office (NSO) under MoSPI
d. Ministry of Finance

Ans: C
IIP is released by NSO under MoSPI on a monthly basis, not by RBI or Finance Ministry.

4. How many times has the base year of IIP been revised, including the 2022-23 revision?
a. 8
b. 9
c. 10
d. 11

Ans: C
The 2022–23 revision is the 10th revision. Base years revised: 1937 → 1946 → 1951 → 1956 → 1960 → 1970 → 1980–81 → 1993–94 → 2004–05 → 2011–12 → 2022–23.

5. NSO was formed in 2019 by merging which two organisations?
a. NSSO and NCA
b. Central Statistical Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)
c. MoSPI and Finance Ministry Statistics Division
d. Planning Commission and CSO

Ans: B
NSO was formed in May 2019 by merging CSO (Central Statistical Office) and NSSO (National Sample Survey Office) under MoSPI.

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Vizag OSAT Facility: AP’s First India Semiconductor Mission Project

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Andhra Pradesh Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Why in News?

The Andhra Pradesh government finalised arrangements for its first semiconductor project under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The project — an OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility — is proposed by M/s. Advanced System in Package Technologies Private Limited at Tarluvada village, Anandapuram mandal, Visakhapatnam district.

Key Facts About the Project

Project Type: OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility
Proposed by: M/s. Advanced System in Package Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Total Investment: ₹2,387.81 crore (executed in two phases)
Phase 1 Outlay: ₹542.19 crore
Phase 2 Outlay: ₹1,845.61 crore

What is OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test)?

OSAT refers to companies that provide semiconductor chip packaging and testing services on behalf of chip designers and fabless semiconductor companies. They are a critical part of the semiconductor supply chain between chip fabrication (fabs) and end-product manufacturers.

OSAT covers: die attach, wire bonding, encapsulation, and testing of packaged chips
Distinct from Semiconductor Fab (which actually manufactures chips via lithography)

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) — Key Facts for Prelims

Launched under: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
Approved outlay: ₹76,000 crore (approx. $10 billion) under Semicon India Programme
India Semiconductor Mission is the nodal agency for semiconductor and display fab incentive schemes
Objective: Build a vibrant semiconductor and display ecosystem in India; reduce import dependency
Incentive: Up to 50% fiscal support on project cost for eligible semiconductor fabs
Covers: Semiconductor Fabs, Display Fabs, ATMP/OSAT facilities, Semiconductor Design

Key Approvals under Semicon India

Tata Electronics – semiconductor fab in partnership with Taiwan’s PSMC (Dholera, Gujarat)
CG Power (Renesas/Stars Microelectronics) – ATMP facility (Sanand, Gujarat)
Kaynes Semicon – ATMP facility (Sanand, Gujarat)
This Vizag OSAT is AP’s first project under ISM

Interconnected Static Concepts for Prelims

Semiconductor Value Chain

Design → Fabrication (Fab) → Assembly, Test, Marking & Packaging (ATMP/OSAT) → End Products
India currently strong in semiconductor design; building capacity in fab and OSAT

Semicon India Programme 2021

Approved by Cabinet in December 2021
Part of India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) ecosystem
Aims to make India a global semiconductor hub by 2030

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Key Fact
Project Type	OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test)
State	Andhra Pradesh
Project Proponent	M/s. Advanced System in Package Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Total Investment	₹2,387.81 crore
Phase 1 Investment	₹542.19 crore
Phase 2 Investment	₹1,845.61 crore
Mission Name	India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
Parent Scheme	Semicon India Programme
Nodal Ministry	Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
Total ISM Outlay	₹76,000 crore (~$10 billion)
ISM Fiscal Support	Up to 50% of project cost

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Confusion	Correct Fact
OSAT = Semiconductor Fabrication (Fab)	❌ OSAT = Assembly & Testing (post-fab); Fab = actual chip manufacturing
ISM is under Ministry of Commerce	❌ Under Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
ISM covers only Fab units	❌ Covers Fabs, Display Fabs, ATMP/OSAT, and Semiconductor Design too
India’s first semiconductor fab is in AP	❌ Tata fab is in Dholera, Gujarat; this Vizag project is AP’s first under ISM
Semicon India was launched in 2023	❌ Approved by Cabinet in December 2021

Practice MCQs

1. India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) functions under which ministry?
a. Ministry of Heavy Industries
b. Ministry of Commerce and Industry
c. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
d. Ministry of Science and Technology

Ans: C
ISM is a nodal agency under MeitY, set up under the Semicon India Programme with an outlay of ₹76,000 crore to build a semiconductor and display ecosystem in India.

2. What does OSAT stand for in the semiconductor industry?
a. Overseas Semiconductor Assembly Terminal
b. Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test
c. Original Semiconductor Automation Technology
d. Output Semiconductor Assembly Testing

Ans: B
OSAT = Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test. OSAT firms handle chip packaging and testing — a critical post-fabrication step in the semiconductor supply chain.

3. The Vizag OSAT facility under India Semiconductor Mission involves a total investment of:
a. ₹542.19 crore
b. ₹1,845.61 crore
c. ₹2,387.81 crore
d. ₹76,000 crore

Ans: C
Total investment = ₹2,387.81 crore in two phases: Phase 1 = ₹542.19 crore and Phase 2 = ₹1,845.61 crore.

4. Tata Electronics’ semiconductor fab under ISM is located in which city?
a. Visakhapatnam
b. Sanand
c. Dholera
d. Bengaluru

Ans: C
Tata Electronics’ semiconductor fab (with Taiwan’s PSMC) is in Dholera, Gujarat. Sanand (Gujarat) is for CG Power and Kaynes ATMP facilities.

5. What is the correct semiconductor value chain order?
a. Design → OSAT → Fabrication → End Products
b. Fabrication → Design → OSAT → End Products
c. Design → Fabrication → OSAT → End Products
d. OSAT → Design → Fabrication → End Products

Ans: C
The correct order is: Design → Fabrication (Fab) → Assembly, Test, Marking & Packaging (ATMP/OSAT) → End Products. India is strong in Design and building fab and OSAT capacity.

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Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Telangana Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Why in News?

Telangana Chief Minister announced a special drive to fast-track the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS), pledging to make it fully operational within 30 months. The announcement also commits extended fund support to benefit the erstwhile Mahbubnagar and other South Telangana districts.

About Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS)

PRLIS is a multi-stage lift irrigation project on the Krishna River in Telangana, designed to address severe drought conditions in South Telangana.

Objective

Irrigate over 12.3 lakh acres of parched uplands
Secure drinking water for 1,226 villages, Hyderabad city, and local industries
Designed to lift 90 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet) of flood water over 60 days during the flood season

Working Mechanism — The 5-Stage Lift System

Water is pumped through 5 distinct stages up to the highest elevation at K.P. Laxmidevipally village, from where it flows by gravity.

Stage 1 (Lift-1): Draws water from Srisailam into the Anjanagiri (Narlapur) Reservoir
Stage 2 (Lift-2): Pumps water forward into the Veeranjaneya (Yedula) Reservoir
Stage 3 (Lift-3): Conveys water to the Vattem Reservoir
Stage 4 (Lift-4): Lifts water to the Karivena and Udandapur Reservoirs
Stage 5 (Lift-5): Reaches the K.P. Laxmidevipally Reservoir — feeds gravity canals onwards

Interconnected Static Concepts for Prelims

Krishna River — Key Facts

Origin: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra (Western Ghats)
Flows through: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana
Drains into: Bay of Bengal (near Hamasaladeevi, AP)
Length: ~1,400 km (4th longest river in India)
Major tributaries: Tungabhadra, Bhima, Musi, Ghatprabha, Malaprabha
Major dams: Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Srisailam Dam, Almatti Dam
Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal: KWDT-I (1969) and KWDT-II (2004)

Srisailam Dam

Location: Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh (on Krishna River)
One of the largest hydroelectric projects in India
Shared project between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh

Lift Irrigation vs. Gravity Irrigation

Lift Irrigation: Water is mechanically pumped uphill — used in hilly/upland areas
Gravity Irrigation: Water flows naturally from a higher point via canals

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Key Fact
Project Name	Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS)
River	Krishna River
State	Telangana
Water Source	Srisailam Reservoir
Number of Lift Stages	5 stages
Final Elevation Point	K.P. Laxmidevipally village
Flood Water Capacity	90 TMC over 60 days
Area to be Irrigated	12.3 lakh acres
Villages to get Drinking Water	1,226 villages + Hyderabad city
Beneficiary Districts	Erstwhile Mahbubnagar (South Telangana)

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Confusion	Correct Fact
PRLIS draws water from Nagarjuna Sagar	❌ Draws from Srisailam Reservoir
Krishna originates in Karnataka	❌ Originates in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
PRLIS uses gravity throughout	❌ Uses mechanical lift for 5 stages; only final distribution is gravity-fed
PRLIS is in Andhra Pradesh	❌ It is in Telangana (though on the shared Krishna River)
90 TMC = 90 Thousand Million Litres	❌ TMC = Thousand Million Cubic Feet

Practice MCQs

1. The Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS) draws water from which reservoir?
a. Nagarjuna Sagar
b. Srisailam
c. Tungabhadra
d. Almatti

Ans: B
PRLIS draws flood water from the Srisailam Reservoir on the Krishna River. Stage 1 lifts water from Srisailam into the Anjanagiri (Narlapur) Reservoir.

2. How many lift stages does the Palamuru-Rangareddy LIS consist of?
a. 3
b. 4
c. 5
d. 7

Ans: C
PRLIS has 5 distinct lift stages, pumping water progressively uphill to K.P. Laxmidevipally village, from where water flows by gravity.

3. The Krishna River originates from which location?
a. Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra
b. Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh
c. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
d. Kudremukh, Karnataka

Ans: C
The Krishna River originates at Mahabaleshwar in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Trimbakeshwar is the origin of the Godavari; Amarkantak is for the Narmada.

4. PRLIS aims to lift how much flood water during the flood season?
a. 60 TMC in 90 days
b. 90 TMC in 60 days
c. 120 TMC in 45 days
d. 75 TMC in 75 days

Ans: B
PRLIS is designed to lift 90 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet) of flood water over a span of 60 days during the flood season.

5. Which of the following is NOT a major tributary of the Krishna River?
a. Tungabhadra
b. Bhima
c. Musi
d. Indravati

Ans: D
Indravati is a tributary of the Godavari River, not the Krishna. Major Krishna tributaries include Tungabhadra, Bhima, Musi, Ghatprabha, and Malaprabha.

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India Launches E85 Flex-Fuel on World Environment Day 2026

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Environment and Ecology Current Affairs / PSC Chronicles Team

Why in News?

India launched E85 fuel on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026 (June 5), marking a major step in the country’s ethanol blending and clean energy transition programme under the National Biofuel Policy.

What is E85 Fuel? Key Facts for Prelims

E85 is a high-ethanol biofuel blend consisting of 85% ethanol and 14–15% petrol (gasoline). It is distinct from the standard E20 petrol that contains up to 20% ethanol mixed with 80% conventional petrol.

E20: 20% ethanol + 80% conventional petrol
E85: 85% ethanol + 14–15% petrol — engineered for Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) only
Regular petrol vehicles cannot run on E85 — requires specially designed FFVs
Ethanol in E85 is a renewable biofuel, primarily produced from sugarcane, maize, and other biomass

What are Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs)?

FFVs are vehicles with internal combustion engines designed to run on more than one fuel, typically petrol mixed with large quantities of methanol or ethanol. India’s promotion of FFVs aligns with its broader Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) goals.

Interconnected Static Concepts

India’s Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP)

India’s target: 20% ethanol blending (E20) by 2025 (timeline advanced from 2030)
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
Feedstocks: sugarcane juice, B-heavy molasses, C-heavy molasses, damaged food grains, surplus rice, maize
India is the 3rd largest ethanol producer globally

National Policy on Biofuels 2018 (Amended 2022)

Categorizes biofuels: Basic Biofuels (1G) and Advanced Biofuels (2G, 3G, 4G)
Expanded permissible feedstocks for ethanol production
Aims to reduce import dependency on crude oil and cut carbon emissions

World Environment Day 2026

Observed every year on June 5
Led by: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP HQ: Nairobi, Kenya
Theme 2026: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
First World Environment Day: 1974

Quick Revision Table

Parameter	Key Fact
E85 Composition	85% Ethanol + 14–15% Petrol
E20 Composition	20% Ethanol + 80% Petrol
Vehicle Required for E85	Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) only
India EBP Target	20% blending (E20) by 2025
Nodal Ministry (EBP)	Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
World Environment Day	June 5 (Annual)
WED Lead Agency	UNEP — HQ: Nairobi, Kenya
WED 2026 Theme	“Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
India’s Global Ethanol Rank	3rd largest producer
National Biofuel Policy	2018 (Amended 2022)

Trap / Confusing Points

Common Confusion	Correct Fact
E85 can be used in all petrol vehicles	❌ Only in Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs)
E20 = 20% petrol, 80% ethanol	❌ E20 = 20% ethanol + 80% petrol
India’s EBP target year is 2030	❌ Advanced to 2025 for E20
World Environment Day is led by WHO	❌ Led by UNEP (not WHO)
WED is observed on April 22	❌ June 5 (April 22 = Earth Day)
E85 has 80% ethanol	❌ E85 = 85% ethanol + 14–15% petrol

Practice MCQs

1. Which of the following correctly describes E85 fuel?
a. 85% petrol and 15% ethanol
b. 85% ethanol and 14–15% petrol
c. 80% ethanol and 20% diesel
d. 85% CNG and 15% petrol

Ans: B
E85 is a high-ethanol blend containing 85% ethanol and 14–15% petrol, exclusively designed for Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). It is not suitable for regular petrol vehicles.

2. World Environment Day is observed on which date every year?
a. April 22
b. June 5
c. July 11
d. March 22

Ans: B
June 5 is World Environment Day, led by UNEP. April 22 = Earth Day; July 11 = World Population Day; March 22 = World Water Day.

3. Which agency leads the observance of World Environment Day globally?
a. World Health Organization (WHO)
b. UNESCO
c. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
d. UNFCCC

Ans: C
UNEP, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, leads World Environment Day. It was established in 1972 following the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment.

4. Under India’s Ethanol Blending Programme, the E20 target was advanced to which year?
a. 2030
b. 2035
c. 2025
d. 2028

Ans: C
India advanced its E20 blending target (20% ethanol in petrol) from 2030 to 2025, aiming to reduce crude oil import dependency and cut carbon emissions.

5. What type of vehicle is required to run on E85 fuel?
a. Electric Vehicles (EVs)
b. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicles
c. Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs)
d. Any standard petrol vehicle

Ans: C
E85 requires Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) — engines specially designed to run on variable fuel blends including high-ethanol mixes. Standard petrol engines cannot use E85 without modification.

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