{"id":3642,"date":"2026-02-13T04:14:15","date_gmt":"2026-02-13T04:14:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/?p=3642"},"modified":"2026-02-13T04:14:15","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T04:14:15","slug":"daily-current-affairs-12-02-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/daily-current-affairs-12-02-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS \u2013 12.02.2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. With reference to the removal procedure of the speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements.<\/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 Speaker of Lok Sabha can be removed by a resolution passed by the Lok Sabha by a majority of the total membership of the House excluding the vacant seats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\">2. A motion of removal of the Speaker of Lok Sabha cannot be moved without giving 14 days advance notice to the Speaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The motion of removal can be considered and discussed only when it has the support of at least 50 percent of members of the house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5 wp-block-paragraph\">4. When a resolution for the removal of the Speaker of Lok Sabha is under consideration of the House, he\/she can preside at the sitting of the House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above are correct?<\/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 2 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, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 3 and 4 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 2 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> Speaker to stay away from Lok Sabha proceedings till Opposition\u2019s petition against him is disposed of<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-14 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Removal of Lok Sabha Speaker:<\/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 Provision<\/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>Removal of the Lok Sabha Speaker is governed by <strong>Article 94(c)<\/strong> of the Constitution of India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Speaker can be removed by a <strong>resolution passed by a majority of all the then members of the House<\/strong> (effective majority).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17 wp-block-paragraph\">Effective majority = Majority of total membership excluding vacancies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-18 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ways Speaker Vacates Office (Article 94)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-19\">\n<li>Ceases to be a member of Lok Sabha.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resigns voluntarily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removed by resolution of Lok Sabha.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-20 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Removal of Speaker of Lok Sabha:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-21\">\n<li>The Speaker of Lok Sabha can be removed by a resolution passed by the Lok Sabha by an Effective Majority (i.e. a majority of the total membership of the House excluding the vacant seats). <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A motion of removal of the Speaker of Lok Sabha can be moved only after giving 14 days\u2019 advance notice to the Speaker. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This motion of removal can be considered and discussed only when it has the support of at least <strong>50 members<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When a resolution for the removal of the Speaker of Lok Sabha is under consideration of the House, he\/she <strong>cannot <\/strong>preside at the sitting of the House, though he\/she may be present in the House. <strong>Hence statement 4 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>However, he\/she can speak and take part in the proceedings of the House at such a time and vote in the first instance, though not in the case of an equality of votes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Historical Context<\/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>Motions against Speakers occurred in:<ul><li>1954 (G.V. Mavalankar)<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>1966 (Hukam Singh)<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>1987 (Balram Jakhar)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-24 wp-block-paragraph\">None resulted in removal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#f7c288a6\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2012)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q.<\/strong> <strong>Regarding the office of the Lok Sabha Speaker, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. He\/She holds the office during the pleasure of the President. <br>2. He\/She need not be a member of the House at the time of his\/her election but has to become a member of the House within six months from the date of his\/ her election. <br>3. If he\/she intends to resign, the letter of his\/her resignation has to be addressed to the Deputy Speaker. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 2 only <br><strong>(b) 3 only<\/strong> <br>(c) 1, 2 and 3 <br>(d) None<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-25 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0800ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/speaker-to-stay-away-from-lok-sabha-proceedings-till-oppositions-petition-against-him-is-disposed-of\/article70616168.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/speaker-to-stay-away-from-lok-sabha-proceedings-till-oppositions-petition-against-him-is-disposed-of\/article70616168.ece<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-26 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Which of the following is\/are functions of the National Medicinal Plants Board?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-27 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Promotion of in-situ and ex-situ conservation of medicinal plants<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Encouraging the protection of patent rights and IPR<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-29 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Regulation of pharmaceutical drug pricing<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-30 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-31 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-32 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-33 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-34 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-35 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-36 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-37 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> 25 years of the National Medicinal Plants Board<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-38 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>National Medicinal Plants Board<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-39\">\n<li>In order to promote the medicinal plants sector, the Government of India has set up the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) on <strong>24th November 2000.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently the board is working as a section of the <strong>Ministry of AYUSH<\/strong> (Ayurveda, Yoga &amp; Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha &amp; Homoeopathy), Government of India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-40 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Functions of the Board:<\/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>Advise concerned Ministries\/ Departments\/ Organizations\/ State\/ UT Governments on policy matters relating to schemes and programs for development of medicinal plants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide guidance in the formulation of proposals, schemes and programs etc. to be taken-up by agencies having access to land for cultivation and infrastructure for collection, storage and transportation of medicinal plants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assessment of demand \/ supply position relating to medicinal plants both within the country and abroad.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identification, Inventorisation and Quantification of medicinal plants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotion of in-situ \/ ex-situ conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants. <strong>Hence 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotion of co-operative efforts among collectors and growers and assisting them to store, transport and market their produce effectively.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Setting up of a data-base system for inventorisation, dissemination of information and facilitating the prevention of Patents being obtained for medicinal use of plants which is in the public domain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organize training programs for capacity building of stakeholders on medicinal plants (including cultivation, conservation, GAPs, GFCPs, GMPs, Storage, PHM and market information).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Matters relating to import \/ export of raw material, as well as value added products either as medicine, food supplements or as herbal cosmetics including adoption of better techniques for marketing of product to increase their reputation for quality and reliability in the country and abroad.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Undertaking and awarding Scientific, Technological research and cost-effectiveness studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Development of protocols for cultivation and quality control.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encouraging the protection of patent rights and IPR. <strong>Hence 2 is correct.<\/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>Key Initiatives &amp; Schemes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-43\">\n<li><strong>Central Sector Scheme: <\/strong>Supports &#8220;Conservation, Development, and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants&#8221; through various project-based grants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>e-Charak Portal: <\/strong>An online platform and mobile app for trading and information exchange between farmers, traders, and industries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Species Campaigns:<\/strong> Launches national awareness programs for high-value herbs like Ashwagandha, Amla, and Shatavari.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Herbal Gardens:<\/strong> Promotes the establishment of school, institutional, and public herbal gardens to sensitize the public about traditional knowledge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional-cum-Facilitation Centres (RCFCs):<\/strong> Six regional hubs provide technical support and coordinate with 37 State Medicinal Plants Boards (SMPBs).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2022)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to the &#8220;Tea Board&#8221; in India, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. The Ten Board is a statutory body. <br>2. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. <br>3. The Tea Board&#8217;s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru. <br>4. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 3 <br>(b) 2 and 4 <br>(c) 3 and 4<br><strong>(d) 1 and 4<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-44 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0400e4\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226284&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226284&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-45 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1900fe\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nmpb.nic.in\/content\/introduction\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/nmpb.nic.in\/content\/introduction<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-46 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Consider the following statements regarding Ayushman Sahakar Scheme:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-47 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It is implemented by the National Health Authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-48 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It provides financial assistance in the form of loans to cooperative societies in the healthcare sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-49 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Only multi-state cooperative societies are eligible under the scheme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-50 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the statements given above are correct?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-51 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-52 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-53 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) All the three\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-54 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-55 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) Only one<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-56 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-57 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Ayushman Sahakar Scheme<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-58 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ayushman Sahakar Scheme<\/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>Ayushman Sahakar<\/strong> is a scheme launched by the <strong>National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NCDC is a <strong>statutory body (1963)<\/strong> under the <strong>Ministry of Cooperation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The scheme provides <strong>financial assistance to cooperative societies<\/strong> working in the healthcare sector. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aligns with the <strong>National Health Policy (2017)<\/strong> to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services.<\/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>Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-61\">\n<li>Promote <strong>affordable and holistic healthcare<\/strong> through cooperative institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen <strong>AYUSH healthcare facilities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support cooperatives in achieving National Health Policy goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable participation in the National<strong> Digital Health Mission<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide comprehensive healthcare including:<ul><li>Education<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Insurance<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Medical services<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Community participation and accountability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-62 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Eligible Entities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-63\">\n<li>Any cooperative society registered under:<ul><li>State Cooperative Societies Act, or<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bye-laws must allow activities related to healthcare\/hospital\/health education.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-64 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Activities Covered<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-65 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Infrastructure Development<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-66\">\n<li>Hospitals, medical colleges, AYUSH centres<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yoga wellness centres<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diagnostic labs, blood banks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mental healthcare, elderly care, palliative care<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Emergency services\/trauma centres<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Physiotherapy and rehabilitation centres<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maternal and child healthcare services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Telemedicine and digital health infrastructure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-67 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Healthcare Services<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-68\">\n<li>Mobile clinics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laboratory and diagnostic services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AYUSH pharmaceutical manufacturing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health insurance (IRDA accredited).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-69 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Financial Support<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-70\">\n<li>Infrastructure creation and expansion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Working capital<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Margin money for operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-71 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Financial Assistance Features<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-72\">\n<li><strong>Assistance provided as:<\/strong><ul><li>Term loan.<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Investment loan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Loan tenure:<\/strong><ul><li>Up to <strong>8 years<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Includes <strong>1\u20132 years moratorium<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interest incentive:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>1% lower interest rate<\/strong> if women members are the majority (with timely repayment).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-73 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Funding Pattern<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-74\">\n<li><strong>Support through:<\/strong><ul><li>State Government route, or<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Direct funding to cooperatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Typical pattern:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Loan component + Society\u2019s share contribution.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can be combined with subsidies\/grants from government schemes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2022)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it. <br>2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately. <br>3. It has seamless portability across the country. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 2 only <br>(b) 3 only <br>(c) 1 and 3 only <br><strong>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-75 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0d00ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226402&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226402&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. With reference to the Ken\u2013Betwa Link Project, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-77 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It is the first river interlinking project under India\u2019s National Perspective Plan for interlinking rivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-78 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The project covers the states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-79 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Both Ken and Betwa rivers are tributaries of the Chambal River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the statements given above are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-81 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-82 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-83 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) All three<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-84 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-85 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) Only one<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-86 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-87 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Ken-Betwa linking project protest turns violent; 3 cases filed<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-88 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ken\u2013Betwa Link Project:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-89\">\n<li>The Ken\u2013Betwa Link Project is the <strong>first river interlinking project<\/strong> under India\u2019s <strong>National Perspective Plan<\/strong> for interlinking rivers.&nbsp; <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to transfer water from the <strong>Ken River<\/strong> (considered surplus basin) to the <strong>Betwa River<\/strong> (water-deficit basin).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The project is located in <strong>Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both Ken and Betwa rivers are <strong>tributaries of the Yamuna River<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Objective: Provide irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Implemented by the <strong>National Water Development Agency (NWDA)<\/strong> under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes construction of <strong>Daudhan Dam<\/strong> and a canal system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Intended to address water scarcity in the <strong>Bundelkhand region<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part of the broader <strong>Interlinking of Rivers (ILR) Programme<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental concerns include impact on the <strong>Panna Tiger Reserve<\/strong> and biodiversity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"872\" height=\"619\" src=\"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-15.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-15.png 872w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-15-300x213.png 300w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-15-768x545.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 872px) 100vw, 872px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Other river linking projects:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"940\" height=\"740\" src=\"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-16.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3649\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-16.png 940w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-16-300x236.png 300w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-16-768x605.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 940px) 100vw, 940px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-90 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0800ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/madhya-pradesh\/protest-against-ken-betwa-river-link-project-turns-violent-in-mp\/article70620687.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/madhya-pradesh\/protest-against-ken-betwa-river-link-project-turns-violent-in-mp\/article70620687.ece<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-91 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is primarily intended for which of the following purposes?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-92 wp-block-paragraph\">I. Microgravity research in materials science and biotechnology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-93 wp-block-paragraph\">II. Space medicine experiments<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-94 wp-block-paragraph\">III. Testing technologies for deep-space missions<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-95 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-96 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) I and II only\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) II and III only\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) I and III only\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-99 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) I, II and III<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-100 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) I, II and III<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-101 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-102 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> PARLIAMENT QUESTION<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-103 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bharatiya Antariksh Station<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-104\">\n<li>Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is a<strong> proposed modular Indian space station being developed by ISRO to enable long-duration human spaceflight missions.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The station is planned to weigh around 52 tonnes and orbit at an altitude of approximately 400\u2013450 km above Earth in <strong>Low Earth Orbit.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>first module is expected to be launched by 2028 using the LVM3 launch vehicle, while full completion of the station is targeted around 2035.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The space station is designed to accommodate a nominal crew of 3\u20134 astronauts, with a maximum short-duration capacity of six astronauts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BAS will consist of five main modules including a base module, core docking module, science research module, laboratory module, and a common berthing module.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The station will include indigenous technologies such as<strong> Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS), docking mechanisms, robotic arms, and spacewalk support systems.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BAS is expected to enable advanced experiments in<strong> microgravity<\/strong>, including research in materials science, biotechnology, and <strong>space medicine. Hence I and II are correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The station will also serve as a <strong>testing platform for technologies needed for future deep-space missions<\/strong>, including possible lunar exploration initiatives. <strong>Hence III is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Power supply technologies under development include fuel cell power systems and advanced lithium-ion batteries tested through orbital experiment missions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India is developing indigenous docking systems and robotic technologies to support on-orbit assembly and operations of the station.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2025)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Consider the following space missions:<\/strong> <br><br>I. Axiom-4\u00a0\u00a0 <br>II. SpaDeX\u00a0\u00a0 <br>III. Gaganyaan\u00a0\u00a0 <br><br><strong>How many of the space missions given above encourage and support microgravity research?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Only one\u00a0\u00a0 <br>(b) Only two\u00a0\u00a0 <br><strong>(c) All three\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong> <br>(d) None<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-105 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1100ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226233&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226233&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=1<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-106 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. ANEEL fuel, recently in news, is associated with which among the following?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-107 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Solar photovoltaic technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-108 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Thorium-based nuclear fuel<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-109 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Hydrogen fuel cell technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-110 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Biofuel blending programme<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-111 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) Thorium-based nuclear fuel<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-112 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-113 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>PARLIAMENT QUESTION: DEPLOYMENT OF ANEEL<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-114 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ANEEL:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-115\">\n<li>ANEEL &#8211; Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life, is a thorium-based fuel developed by Chicago-based Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) for <strong>use in existing Pressurized Heavy-Water Reactors (PHWRs)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence option (b) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It combines thorium with High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) to achieve higher burn-up<\/strong>, significantly reducing nuclear waste by over 85% and lowering power costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NTPC Limited is collaborating with CCTE to explore its development and deployment in India to boost energy security and promote cleaner energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is a mixture of thorium and HALEU (uranium enriched between 5% and 20%).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is designed for existing 220 MWe and 700 MWe PHWRs without requiring major reactor modifications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It achieves a burn-up of 60 GWd\/MT, significantly higher than conventional natural uranium fuel (7 GWd\/MT), reducing the required number of fuel bundles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Its benefits are lower operational costs (20\u201330% reduction), significantly less waste, and enhanced proliferation resistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aligns with India&#8217;s three-stage nuclear program by facilitating the early use of India&#8217;s vast thorium reserves.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2012)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. To meet its rapidly growing energy demand, some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context, what advantage does thorium hold over uranium?<\/strong> <br><br>1. Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium.<br> 2. On the basis of unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium <br>3. Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium. <br><br><strong>Which of the statement(s) given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only<br>(b) 2 and 3 only <br>(c) 1 and 3 only <br><strong>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-116 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#2301ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226337&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=2#:~:text=As%20per%20joint%20press%20release,line%20with%20prevailing%20national%20laws\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2226337&amp;reg=3&amp;lang=2#:~:text=As%20per%20joint%20press%20release,line%20with%20prevailing%20national%20laws<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-117 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Which among the following best describes the term \u201cwet dress rehearsal\u201d conducted prior to a rocket launch?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-118 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) A simulation of launch procedures without loading propellants<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-119 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) A full launch simulation including fueling of the rocket with propellants<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-120 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Testing of only ground communication systems after launch<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-121 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) A trial conducted only after mission failure<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-122 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) A full launch simulation including fueling of the rocket with propellants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-123 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-124 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>What is a wet dress rehearsal?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-125 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Wet Dress Rehearsal:<\/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>A wet dress rehearsal is a full simulation of launch-day procedures conducted before an actual rocket launch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It tests the integrated functioning of personnel, hardware, software, and timelines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryogenic propellants are loaded into the rocket during a wet dress rehearsal. <strong>Hence option (b) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The rehearsal includes countdown operations and fueling procedures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It helps identify technical issues such as leaks, system malfunctions, or operational gaps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ground systems and vehicle systems are tested together as a unified launch sequence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communication systems and coordination between launch control teams are validated.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It reduces risks by detecting problems prior to the actual launch.<\/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>Dry Dress Rehearsal:<\/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>A dry dress rehearsal simulates launch procedures without loading propellants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vehicle and ground systems are powered and tested using simulated inputs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used to check operational flow, decision-making, and communication protocols.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps identify logical or procedural issues without fuel-related risks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2022)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the &#8220;Fractional Orbital Bombardment System&#8221; often talked about in media?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space. <br>(b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions. <br><strong>(c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.<\/strong> <br>(d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-129 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#2f00ff\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/what-is-a-wet-dress-rehearsal\/article70614958.ece#google_vignette\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/what-is-a-wet-dress-rehearsal\/article70614958.ece#google_vignette<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-130 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. With reference to Brahmi script, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-131 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It emerged around the 3rd century BCE and was widely used during the Mauryan period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-132 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Brahmi script is written from right to left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-133 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The script was deciphered by James Prinsep in the 19th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-134 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-135 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-136 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-137 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-138 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-139 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-140 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-141 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Tamil Brahmi inscriptions in Egypt point to ancient trade links<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-142\">\n<li>Researchers identified ~30 ancient Indian inscriptions inside rock-cut tombs in Egypt\u2019s Valley of the Kings (Theban Necropolis).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>About 20 inscriptions are in Tamil-Brahmi, while others are in Prakrit and Sanskrit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These inscriptions are dated to roughly 1st\u20133rd century CE.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name \u201cCikai Korran\u201d appears repeatedly (around 8 times) across several tombs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The presence of this Tamil name in Egypt indicates that people from ancient Tamilakam travelled far beyond Indian ports.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It provides archaeological evidence supporting historical accounts of maritime trade between South India and the Roman world.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-143 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Brahmi script:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-144\">\n<li>Brahmi is one of the earliest known writing systems of ancient India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It emerged around the 3rd century BCE and was widely used during the Mauryan period. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The script is best known from the inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka, especially rock and pillar edicts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brahmi is written from left to right. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is an alphasyllabary (abugida), where each consonant carries an inherent vowel sound.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional vowel signs are added to modify pronunciation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The script was deciphered in 1837 by James Prinsep.<strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brahmi became the parent script of most modern Indian writing systems, including Devanagari, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, and others.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regional variations of Brahmi developed across different parts of India over time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tamil-Brahmi is an early adaptation used to write the Tamil language during the Sangam period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brahmi inscriptions provide important evidence for ancient administration, religion, trade, and cultural history in India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\" style=\"background-color:#ebcca77d\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2019)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is \u2018Ranyo Ashoka\u2019 (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) Kanganahalli<\/strong> <br>(b) Sanchi <br>(c) Shahbazagrhi <br>(d) Sohgaura<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-145 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0004ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/tamil-brahmi-inscriptions-found-in-egypts-valley-of-the-kings-shed-light-on-ancient-trade-links\/article70619929.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/tamil-brahmi-inscriptions-found-in-egypts-valley-of-the-kings-shed-light-on-ancient-trade-links\/article70619929.ece<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-146 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. With reference to Exercise \u201cVayu Shakti\u201d, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It is a biennial firepower demonstration conducted by the Indian Air Force.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-148 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It is conducted at the Pokhran firing range in Rajasthan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-149 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-150 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-151 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-152 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-153 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-154 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-155 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-156 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Rafale, Su-30, Tejas to be part of \u2018Vayu Shakti\u2019 at Pokhran, will highlight Operation Sindoor success<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-157 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Exercise Vayu Shakti:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-158\">\n<li><strong>Exercise Vayu Shakti<\/strong> is a <strong>biennial firepower demonstration<\/strong> conducted by the <strong>Indian Air Force (IAF)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is held at the <strong>Pokhran firing range<\/strong> in Rajasthan. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The exercise showcases the <strong>full spectrum of combat capabilities<\/strong>, including fighter, transport, and helicopter operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Demonstrates IAF\u2019s ability in <strong>precision targeting, airspace dominance, and multi-domain operations<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes day, dusk, and night missions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Features integrated operations with other forces such as the <strong>Indian Army<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-159 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Aircraft Participating<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-160\">\n<li>Fighter aircraft: <strong>Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, LCA Tejas, Jaguar, Mirage-2000<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helicopters: <strong>Apache, Chinook, LCH Prachand, ALH Mk-IV, Mi-17 IV, Chetak<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transport aircraft: <strong>C-130J, C-17, C-295<\/strong> (C-295 debut highlighted)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-161 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Weapon Systems Showcased<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-162\">\n<li><strong>Akash<\/strong> Surface-to-Air Missile system (Indian SAM system)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SpyDer<\/strong> air defence system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-163 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#0008ff\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/rafale-su-30-tejas-to-be-part-of-vayu-shakti-at-pokhran-will-highlight-operation-sindoor-success-10527568\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/rafale-su-30-tejas-to-be-part-of-vayu-shakti-at-pokhran-will-highlight-operation-sindoor-success-10527568\/<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-164 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>10. With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-165 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Nayaputta<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-166 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Shakyamuni<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-167 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Tathagata<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-168 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-169 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-170 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-171 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-172 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None of the above are epithets of Gautama Buddha<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-173 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer:<\/strong> <strong>(b) 2 and 3 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-174 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-175 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Nayaputta: <\/strong>\u201cNayaputta\u201d (Nataputta) is associated with <strong>Mahavira<\/strong> (Jain Tirthankara), not Gautama Buddha.<strong> Hence 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-176 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Shakyamuni: <\/strong>Means \u201cSage of the Shakya clan\u201d; a common epithet of <strong>Gautama Buddha.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-177 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Tathagata: <\/strong>Frequently used by <strong>Buddha <\/strong>to refer to himself; means \u201cThus-gone\u201d or \u201cThus-come one.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With reference to the removal procedure of the speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements. 1. The Speaker [&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":[1,71,41,25,26,33,11,42],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3642","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-good-morning-test","category-gs-1","category-gs-2","category-gs-3","category-gs-4","category-prelims","category-prelims-current-affairs-gmt"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3642","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=3642"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3642\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3650,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3642\/revisions\/3650"}],"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=3642"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3642"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3642"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}