Skyroot Aerospace Unicorn 2026 gained attention after the Hyderabad-based startup achieved a valuation of $1.1 billion following a fresh funding round of nearly $60 million. The milestone comes weeks before the expected launch of Vikram-1, Indiaβs first privately developed orbital rocket.
Key Facts About Skyroot Aerospace Unicorn 2026
Aspect
Details
Company
Skyroot Aerospace
Headquarters
Hyderabad
Valuation
$1.1 billion
Fresh Funding Raised
Nearly $60 million
Status Achieved
Indiaβs first space-tech unicorn
Upcoming Mission
Vikram-1 orbital rocket launch
Launch Site
Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR)
Rocket Series Named After
Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
Vikram Series of Launch Vehicles
Vehicle
Type
Key Details
Vikram-S
Sub-orbital rocket
First privately developed Indian rocket to reach space in November 2022
Vikram-1
Orbital launch vehicle
Maiden flight expected in mid-2026
Vikram-2
Heavy-lift launch vehicle
Designed for 1-tonne payload to Low Earth Orbit by 2027
Significance of Skyroot Aerospace Unicorn 2026
The emergence of Skyroot as Indiaβs first space-tech startup unicorn demonstrates the success of Indiaβs space sector liberalisation. It reflects growing investor confidence in indigenous launch technology and commercial space missions.
BrahMos Missile Talks 2026 came into focus during the state visit of Vietnamese President To Lam to India. The Indian government officially confirmed that discussions are underway regarding the possible sale of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system to Vietnam.
Key Facts About BrahMos Missile Talks 2026
Aspect
Details
Missile Name
BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile
Developed By
DRDO (India) and NPO Mashinostroyenia (Russia)
Missile Type
Medium-range supersonic cruise missile
Speed
Mach 2.8β3.0
Current Talks
India and Vietnam discussing possible export deal
First Foreign Buyer
Philippines in 2024
Launch Platforms
Land, sea, submarine, and air
Name Origin
Brahmaputra River + Moskva River
Key Features of BrahMos Missile
Feature
Description
Propulsion
Two-stage propulsion system
First Stage
Solid propellant booster
Second Stage
Liquid-fuel ramjet engine
Original Range
290 km
Extended Range Versions
450 km, 500 km, and 800+ km
Guidance
Precision-guided strike capability
Significance of BrahMos Missile Talks 2026
The proposed BrahMos deal would strengthen Vietnamβs maritime deterrence capability in the South China Sea region. It also enhances Indiaβs image as a reliable supplier of advanced military technology.
Quick Revision Points
BrahMos Missile Talks 2026 involve India and Vietnam.
BrahMos developed jointly by DRDO and NPO Mashinostroyenia.
Missile speed: Mach 2.8β3.0.
Original BrahMos range limited to 290 km.
Extended-range variants exceed 800 km.
Philippines became first foreign buyer in 2024.
BrahMos named after Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers.
BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile system.
Practice MCQs
Q1. BrahMos missile is jointly developed by India and which country? a) France b) Russia c) Israel d) USA
Answer: (b) Russia β BrahMos is a joint venture between DRDO and Russiaβs NPO Mashinostroyenia.
Q2. What is the approximate speed of the BrahMos missile? a) Mach 0.8 b) Mach 1.2 c) Mach 2.8β3.0 d) Mach 5.0
Answer: (c) Mach 2.8β3.0 β BrahMos is among the fastest operational supersonic cruise missiles.
Q3. Which country became the first foreign customer of BrahMos in 2024? a) Vietnam b) Indonesia c) Philippines d) Japan
Answer: (c) Philippines β The Philippines purchased the shore-based BrahMos variant.
Q4. The name BrahMos is derived from which rivers? a) Ganga and Volga b) Brahmaputra and Moskva c) Indus and Danube d) Yamuna and Neva
Answer: (b) Brahmaputra and Moskva β The missileβs name combines rivers from India and Russia.
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Andhra Pradesh Governor launched the Mee Intiki β Mee Doctor 2026 initiative on May 8, 2026 during the observance of World Red Cross Day and World Thalassemia Day.
The programme aims to provide doorstep healthcare services to poor families living in inaccessible regions of the State.
The project targets vulnerable groups including pregnant women, children aged 0β6 years, and bedridden persons unable to visit health centres
Key Details of the Programme
Aspect
Details
Programme
Mee Intiki β Mee Doctor
Launch Occasion
World Red Cross Day & World Thalassemia Day
Launch Date
May 8, 2026
Objective
Provide primary healthcare at doorstep
Target Beneficiaries
Poor families in remote and inaccessible areas
Coverage Target
5 lakh families
Duration
3 years
District Coverage
7 districts
Focus Groups
Pregnant women, children (0β6 years), bedridden persons
Constitutional and Health Background
Public Health in India
Constitutional Provision
Details
State List β Entry 6 (Seventh Schedule)
Public health and sanitation fall under the jurisdiction of States
Article 47
Directs the State to improve public health and nutrition levels
Related Health Mission
National Health Mission (NHM) supports accessible healthcare delivery
What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder in which the body produces insufficient or abnormal hemoglobin. This reduces oxygen transport in blood and leads to anemia, fatigue, and weakness.
Feature
Details
Type
Genetic blood disorder
Main Cause
Abnormal hemoglobin production
Major Impact
Anemia and reduced oxygen supply
Observance Day
World Thalassemia Day β May 8
About World Red Cross Day
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed every year on May 8 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize.
Quick Revision Points
Mee Intiki β Mee Doctor launched in Andhra Pradesh
Programme launched on May 8, 2026
Linked with World Red Cross Day
Linked with World Thalassemia Day
Targets 5 lakh poor families
Covers 7 districts over 3 years
Focus on pregnant women and children aged 0β6 years
Article 47 relates to improvement of public health
Practice MCQs
Q1. Mee Intiki β Mee Doctor initiative was launched in which state? a) Telangana b) Karnataka c) Andhra Pradesh d) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (c) β The programme was launched by the Andhra Pradesh Governor.
Q2. World Red Cross Day is observed annually on: a) April 7 b) May 8 c) June 5 d) July 11
Answer: (b) β It commemorates the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant.
Q3. Thalassemia mainly affects which component of the body? a) Liver enzymes b) Hemoglobin production c) Bone density d) Blood sugar
Answer: (b) β Thalassemia is an inherited disorder affecting hemoglobin production.
Q4. Which Article of the Constitution directs the State to improve public health? a) Article 32 b) Article 21 c) Article 47 d) Article 51A
Answer: (c) β Article 47 is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy.
The Union Government has extended the tenure of the Commission of Inquiry headed by former Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan for the third time. The commission was constituted in October 2022 to examine whether Scheduled Caste status should be extended to Dalits who convert to religions other than Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism.
Key Facts About the Commission
Aspect
Details
Commission Head
Justice K G Balakrishnan, former Chief Justice of India
Constituted
October 2022
Purpose
Examine extension of SC status to converted Dalits
Current Extension
Third extension granted by Centre
Concerned Communities
Dalits converted to Christianity or Islam
Legal Basis Under Review
Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950
Ministry Involved
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Constitutional and Statutory Background
Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950
The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 was issued under Article 341 of the Constitution. Paragraph 3 of the Order restricts Scheduled Caste recognition to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism.
Amendment
Change Introduced
1950 Order
SC status limited to Hindus
1956 Amendment
Sikhs included in SC category
1990 Amendment
Buddhists included in SC category
Under the present legal framework, Dalits converting to Christianity or Islam lose eligibility for SC reservation benefits. The Balakrishnan Commission is examining whether this restriction violates constitutional principles of equality and social justice.
Difference Between SC and ST Status
Feature
Scheduled Castes (SC)
Scheduled Tribes (ST)
Linked to Religion
Yes
Generally No
Constitutional Provision
Article 341
Article 342
Effect of Religious Conversion
SC status may cease
ST status usually continues
Basis of Recognition
Historical untouchability
Tribal identity and customs
Unlike SC status, Scheduled Tribe recognition is generally not tied to religion. An ST individual may continue to retain tribal status after conversion unless community recognition and tribal customs are completely abandoned.
Quick Revision Points
Justice K G Balakrishnan heads the commission.
Commission constituted in October 2022.
SC status governed under Article 341.
Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 restricts SC status by religion.
Sikhs added to SC list in 1956.
Buddhists included in 1990.
ST status governed under Article 342.
SC Status for Dalit Converts 2026 concerns Dalits converted to Christianity and Islam.
Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
(UPSC Prelims 2012): With reference to the Constitution of India, consider the following:
The Constitution empowers the President to specify Scheduled Castes.
Parliament can modify the list of Scheduled Castes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(UPSC Mains 2016): Discuss the role of affirmative action in addressing social discrimination in India.
(For Practice): Examine the constitutional issues involved in the debate on SC Status for Dalit Converts 2026.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Under which Article are Scheduled Castes specified in India? a) Article 340 b) Article 341 c) Article 342 d) Article 343
Answer: (b) β Article 341 empowers the President to specify Scheduled Castes.
Q2. The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order originally restricted SC status to which religion? a) Hinduism b) Sikhism c) Buddhism d) Christianity
Answer: (a) β The 1950 Order initially limited SC status to Hindus only.
Q3. In which year were Buddhists included in the Scheduled Caste category? a) 1956 b) 1976 c) 1990 d) 2001
Answer: (c) β Buddhists were included through the 1990 amendment.
Q4. Which former Chief Justice of India heads the present commission on Dalit converts? a) N V Ramana b) U U Lalit c) K G Balakrishnan d) R M Lodha
Answer: (c) β The commission is chaired by Justice K G Balakrishnan.
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India will host the inaugural International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit from June 1β3, 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.
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 Species
Scientific/Regional Importance
Tiger
India hosts the worldβs largest tiger population
Lion
Asiatic lions found mainly in Gujarat
Leopard
Widely distributed across Asia and Africa
Snow Leopard
Found in Himalayan regions
Cheetah
Reintroduced in India under Project Cheetah
Jaguar
Native to the Americas
Puma
Also 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
Which of the following species is NOT covered under the International Big Cat Alliance? a) Jaguar b) Puma c) Wolf d) Snow Leopard
The headquarters of the International Big Cat Alliance is located in: a) Nairobi b) Geneva c) New Delhi d) Kathmandu
What is the proposed declaration expected from the inaugural IBCA Summit? a) Rio Declaration b) Delhi Declaration c) Kyoto Declaration d) Nairobi Protocol
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
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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?
Indiaβs 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
The strength of Supreme Court judges has been increased from 34 to:
a) 35
b) 36
c) 38
d) 40
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
The Supreme Court of India was established in:
a) 1947
b) 1949
c) 1950
d) 1952
Which institution approved the increase in Supreme Court judges in 2026?
a) Parliament
b) Supreme Court Collegium
c) Union Cabinet
d) Law Commission
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The Ministry of Railways has issued a gazette notification for the creation of the South Coast Railway (SCoR), making it Indiaβs 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
Which city has been selected as the headquarters of the South Coast Railway Zone?
a) Vijayawada
b) Visakhapatnam
c) Guntur
d) Tirupati
The South Coast Railway Zone became Indiaβs ______ railway zone.
a) 16th
b) 17th
c) 18th
d) 19th
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
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
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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. 563β483 BCE) was born as Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (present-day Nepal) to the Sakya clan.
He is the founder of Buddhism, one of the worldβs major religions.
Key Events in Buddhaβs 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
The Piprahwa relics are associated with which religion? a) Jainism b) Buddhism c) Hinduism d) Sikhism
Buddha attained enlightenment at which place? a) Sarnath b) Lumbini c) Bodh Gaya d) Kushinagar
The First Buddhist Council was held at: a) Vaishali b) Pataliputra c) Rajgriha d) Kashmir
Which symbol represents Buddhaβs first sermon? a) Lotus b) Stupa c) Wheel d) Horse
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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 (1814β1816).
Defined the Kali River as the western boundary of Nepal.
Core Issue
The dispute arises due to different interpretations of the Kali Riverβs 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
Which river forms the basis of the India-Nepal boundary dispute in the Lipulekh region? a) Ganga b) Brahmaputra c) Kali River d) Indus
The Treaty of Sugauli (1815) was signed between Nepal and which entity? a) British Crown b) East India Company c) Mughal Empire d) China
Lipulekh Pass is located in which Indian state? a) Himachal Pradesh b) Uttarakhand c) Sikkim d) Arunachal Pradesh
The Lipulekh Pass connects India to which Tibetan town? a) Lhasa b) Shigatse c) Taklakot d) Gyantse
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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 Indiaβs private space sector, showcasing cutting-edge Earth observation technology.
The satellite is considered Indiaβs 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 Indiaβs growing capabilities in the private space sector.
Strategic Importance
Strengthens Indiaβs 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 Indiaβs emerging private space ecosystem, supported by policy reforms and organisations like IN-SPACe.
Practice Questions
Which company developed the Mission Drishti Satellite? a) ISRO b) DRDO c) GalaxEye d) HAL
What is the key feature of Mission Drishti Satellite? a) Nuclear propulsion b) OptoSAR technology c) Cryogenic engine d) GPS navigation
At what altitude does Mission Drishti Satellite operate? a) 200 km b) 500 km c) 1000 km d) 1500 km
What does SAR stand for? a) Satellite Analysis Radar b) Synthetic Aperture Radar c) Space Application Radar d) Signal Amplification Radar
Mission Drishti Satellite is important for which sector? a) Agriculture only b) Defence only c) Space and Earth observation d) Banking
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