UPSC DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS (12th May,2025)

Magnetic Flip-Flop

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography, GS3/ Science and technology

Context

• Recent studies indicate that Earth’s magnetic field is weakening and shifting, raising concerns over possible magnetic excursions or even a full-scale polarity reversal.

Earth’s magnetic field 

• It is generated by the complex flow of molten metallic material in the outer core of the planet. 
• The flow of this material is affected both by the rotation of Earth and the presence of a solid iron core, which results in a dipolar magnetic field where the axis roughly aligns with the rotational axis of the planet. 

Cause of magnetic field reversal

• Short-term variations (milliseconds to days) are caused by solar activity and interaction with charged particles in space.
• Long-term changes, such as reversals and excursions, result from turbulent flows in the outer core, driven by heat released from the inner core and modulated by planetary rotation.
• A reversal happens when the flow of molten material in the core changes direction—for instance, from clockwise to anticlockwise—altering the magnetic field’s orientation.

Magnetic Reversals and Excursions

• Magnetic reversal is a phenomenon where the magnetic north and south poles swap places. It occurred 183 times in the past 83 million years.
  • The last major reversal was the Brunhes-Matuyama reversal, about 780,000 years ago.
  • It can take thousands of years to complete, estimated at 22,000 years.
• Magnetic excursions are temporary and incomplete shifts in the magnetic field direction. It occurs 10 times more frequently than full reversals. Theexamples are as:
  • Norwegian-Greenland Sea event (64,500 years ago),
  • Laschamps and Mono Lake (34,500 years ago),
  • Bagwalipokar excursions ( Uttarakhand): researchers found evidence of two excursions—15,500–14,700 years ago and 8,000–2,850 years ago.

Concerns Arising from Field Instability

• Atmospheric Vulnerability: During weak-field phases, Earth’s atmosphere is more exposed to harmful solar wind and cosmic rays.
• Technological Impacts: It could disrupt power grids, satellite operations, and communication systems.
• Biological Impact: Many animals, such as birds, sea turtles, and whales, rely on Earth’s magnetic field for navigation. A flip or fluctuation could disrupt migratory patterns and breeding cycles.

Concluding Remarks

• Though Earth’s magnetic field has reversed and fluctuated many times in geological history, the precise timing and triggers of such events remain uncertain. 
• However, as human society grows increasingly dependent on electromagnetic infrastructure, understanding and predicting the behavior of the magnetic field becomes vital.

Total Fertility Rate Remains Constant at 2.0 in 2021

Syllabus: GS2/ Governance

Context

• The Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021, released by the Registrar General of India (RGI), highlights that India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has remained constant at 2.0 in 2021, the same as in 2020.
  • The survey was conducted in 8,842 sample units across all States, covering about 84 lakh sample population.

Sample Registration System (SRS)

• The Sample Registration System (SRS) is a large-scale demographic survey in India used to collect data on births and deaths, providing annual estimates of vital rates like birth rate, death rate, and infant mortality rate.
• Key features of SRS:
  • Dual Record System: The system uses two sources of information: continuous enumeration by part-time enumerators and six-monthly retrospective surveys by supervisors. 
  • Sample-Based: SRS operates on a sample of villages and urban blocks, making it cost-effective and efficient. 

Key findings of the report

• Bihar has reported the highest TFR at 3.0, while Delhi and West Bengal reported the lowest TFR of 1.4.
• Demographic Shifts (1971–2021):
  • 0–14 age group: Declined from 41.2% to 24.8%, indicating a falling young population.
  • 15–59 age group (working age): Increased from 53.4% to 66.2%, representing a demographic dividend window.
  • The elderly population has gone up from 5.3% to 5.9% for the 65+ age group and 6% to 9% for the 60+ age group during the same period. Kerala reported the highest elderly population at 14.4%.
• The mean age at effective marriage for females has increased from 19.3 years in 1990 to 22.5 years in 2021.

Significance of the Findings

• Population Stabilization: A TFR of 2.0 indicates India is approaching population stabilization, which can ease pressure on natural resources, public services, and the environment.
• Demographic Dividend: A larger working-age population provides an opportunity for increased productivity, and economic growth.
• Improved Maternal health: Fewer childbirths per woman, coupled with delayed age of marriage, lead to reduced maternal mortality, better child care, and healthier families.
• Women Empowerment: Lower fertility rates reflect higher education levels, workforce participation, and greater autonomy among women, leading to better social and economic outcomes.

Negative Impacts of Declining TFR

• Ageing Population: A rise in the elderly population will increase the dependency on the working population, demanding increased focus on pension, healthcare, and social welfare systems.
• Potential for Skewed Sex Ratios: In certain areas, fertility reduction without tackling gender bias can exacerbate sex-selective practices, leading to imbalanced sex ratios.
• Demographic Imbalance: States with vast fertility differences, potentially leading to interstate migration, cultural shifts, and resource strain in low-TFR states.

Concluding Remarks

• The stabilization of India’s Total Fertility Rate reflects a significant demographic shift, signaling that the country is moving closer to achieving replacement-level fertility. However, the associated challenges must not be overlooked.
• A balanced approach that promotes equitable development, strengthens social security, and anticipates future demographic needs is essential to ensure that this transition supports a resilient and prosperous India.

IMF Loan to Pakistan

Syllabus: GS2/ International Institutions

In News

• The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) decided to allow for “an immediate disbursement” of $1 billion (around Rs 8,500 crore) to Pakistan.
  • This disbursal was done as part of IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) to Pakistan.

What is the Extended Fund Facility (EFF)?

• The Extended Fund Facility is a loan-based support mechanism provided by the IMF to countries that suffer from medium-term balance of payments problems, particularly due to structural deficiencies in their economies. 
• Unlike short-term bailouts, the EFF is designed to assist countries in implementing structural reforms that take time to yield results.
• According to the IMF, EFF loans:
  • Offer longer repayment periods
  • Support reforms in fiscal governance, banking, taxation, etc.
  • Target countries with long-standing issues such as poor infrastructure, financial instability, or chronic budget deficits
• It is not financial aid or a grant—countries are expected to repay these funds along with agreed interest.

Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF)

• It provides affordable, long-term financing to support low- and vulnerable middle-income countries in implementing macro-critical reforms to address balance of payments risks, particularly those related to climate change and pandemic preparedness. 
• It aims to strengthen macroeconomic resilience by supporting policy reforms that reduce these risks and enhance financial buffers.

Why does the IMF consider Pakistan for EFF Assistance?

• Despite its strategic ambitions, Pakistan’s economic fundamentals have steadily deteriorated over the past two decades.
  • Stagnant GDP: Pakistan’s GDP in 2023 stood at $338 billion, lower than in 2017.
  • Rising Inflation: Double-digit inflation for five consecutive years—culminating in 23.4% in 2024.
  • Debt Dependence: Pakistan has availed 28 IMF loans in 35 years and borrowed from China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Paris Club, Islamic Development Bank, and others.
  • Weak Fundamentals: Low savings and investment, poor infrastructure, limited female workforce participation, and consistent fiscal mismanagement.
• According to the IMF, Pakistan’s recent efforts under the EFF have shown signs of progress:
  • Inflation dropped significantly to 0.3% in April 2025
  • Increase in foreign exchange reserves
  • Structural reforms like the Agricultural Income Tax and improved fiscal controls.

India’s Dissent: Strategic and Security Concerns

• India formally conveyed its strong objections to the IMF Board regarding the disbursement, highlighting two major concerns:
  • Track Record of Misuse: India pointed to Pakistan’s poor utilization of previous IMF loans, often failing to implement promised reforms or misallocating funds.
  • National Security Threats: Citing state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, India warned that the debt financing might be indirectly used to fund military or terror activities against India.
• While the IMF Executive Board does not allow member countries to vote “against” such proposals, India abstained from the decision as a diplomatic expression of protest.

Why Farmers Prefer Growing Rice and Wheat

Syllabus: GS3/Agriculture

Context

• Indian farmers continue to choose rice and wheat as their primary crops despite growing discourse around crop diversification, and complex interplay of historical legacy, economic security, policy incentives, and agro-ecological conditions.

Rice and Wheat Production in India (2024-25)

• Wheat Production: It is estimated at 122.724 million tonnes, covering 330.8 lakh hectares.
  • Major wheat-growing states include Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
• Rice Production: India produces over 120 million tonnes of rice annually, with Kharif and Rabi seasons contributing to total output.
  • Rice cultivation is concentrated in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

Reasons for the Continuance of Rice and Wheat Cultivation in India  

• Assured Procurement and Price Stability: The government’s near-guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) purchases for rice and wheat provide financial security to farmers.
  • Rice and wheat enjoy consistent demand through public distribution systems, unlike other crops, which face market price fluctuations.
• Green Revolution Impact: The introduction of semi-dwarf wheat varieties during the Green Revolution significantly boosted yields and reduced lodging risks.
  • These varieties responded well to fertilizer and water application, making wheat a preferred choice for farmers.
• Yield Stability and Irrigation Support: Rice and wheat are less risky compared to other crops, as they are primarily grown under irrigated conditions.
  • Steady yield improvements due to public breeding and research support have made these crops more resilient.
• Food Security and Policy Prioritization: Rice and wheat are essential for India’s food security, leading to continued policy support.
  • Government schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) ensure steady demand for these grains. 
• Technological Advancements in Rice Production: India has developed two genome-edited rice varieties, enhancing yield, drought resistance, and nitrogen efficiency.
  • These varieties aim to reduce water consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, making rice cultivation more sustainable.

Challenges in Rice and Wheat Cultivation

• Climate Change and Weather Variability: Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns affect crop yields and quality.
  • Heat-induced stress during grain filling stages can lead to lower productivity.
• Water Scarcity and Resource Management: Rice is highly water-intensive, leading to groundwater depletion in states like Punjab and Haryana.
  • Sustainable irrigation practices are needed to reduce water consumption.
• Shifting Consumption Patterns: Despite high production, household cereal consumption has remained stagnant at 150 million tonnes annually, raising concerns about surplus management.
  • Increased cereal exports have helped balance domestic supply and demand.

Why Growing Alternative Grains Matter?

• Economic Viability: Governments should provide economic support to farmers willing to transition away from rice.
  • Farmers’ sowing decisions are highly sensitive to price fluctuations, indicating a need for economic incentives to encourage the transition.
• Climate Resilience: Millets, maize, and sorghum are less affected by climate variability compared to rice.
  • Rice cultivation is water-intensive and contributes to methane emissions, whereas alternative grains require less water and have a lower carbon footprint.
  • Optimal allocation of rice area to alternative grains could reduce climate-induced production losses by up to 11%.
  • Encouraging farmers to grow pulses, millets, and oilseeds could improve soil health and sustainability.
• Market Development: Strengthening supply chains for alternative grains can ensure stable demand and pricing.

CAQM unveils 19-point plan to stamp out stubble burning in Delhi-NCR

Syllabus: GS3/Environment 

Context

• The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas announced a 19-step directive for state governments to eliminate stubble burning.

About

• The comprehensive plan outlined here represents one of the most robust multi-tiered efforts to curb stubble burning and its associated air pollution across Punjab, Haryana, and NCR Uttar Pradesh. 
• The approach integrates administrative accountability, technological innovation, farmer engagement, and legal enforcement.

Key Measures in the CAQM Plan

• Farm-Level Mapping & Nodal Officers: Every farm will be mapped to track stubble management strategies.
  • One nodal officer will oversee every 50 farmers to ensure localized monitoring.
• Stubble Management Options:
  • In-situ: Mulching, use of bio-decomposers.
  • Ex-situ: Baling, storage, and transportation to power plants, packaging industries, brick kilns.
  • Crop diversification: Reducing reliance on paddy to lower residue generation.
• Infrastructure & Logistics: Conduct gap analysis of Crop Residue Management (CRM) machinery.
  • Plan storage for baled straw to prevent fire loss.
  • Create district-level supply chains for straw transport and utilization.
• Enforcement & Monitoring: Supreme Court-directed formation of state-level committees headed by Chief Secretaries.
  • Monthly compliance reports starting June 1, 2025.
  • Launch of an online real-time reporting platform for crop residue data.
• Pilot Project: A common boiler run on paddy straw will be tested in an industrial estate to supply steam—an ex-situ utilization model.
• Enforcement Force: A Parali Protection Force at district and block levels.
  • Involvement of police, agriculture, and administrative officers.
  • Enhanced evening patrols and citizen-reporting mechanisms.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Ensure red entries and impose fines on violating farmers.

Conclusion

• The CAQM’s plan is a comprehensive, enforcement-backed strategy to curb stubble burning by mapping farms, promoting in-situ and ex-situ solutions, strengthening supply chains, and introducing strict monitoring through nodal officers and a dedicated enforcement force. 
• With real-time tracking, monthly reporting, and legal oversight, it aims to provide a lasting solution to the recurring air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR.

National Technological Day

Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology

Context

• May 11 marked the 27th National Technological Day of India.
  • This year’s theme is “YANTRA”, which signifies transformation through advanced research and technological acceleration.

About

• Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee designated May 11 as National Technology Day in India to commemorate the Pokhran nuclear tests conducted by the Indian Army in 1998.
• On May 11, 1998, two other special technological advances were showcased by India’s scientists and engineers.
  • The successful test firing of Trishul missile; and the first test flight of the indigenously developed aircraft Hansa.
• This observance aims to cultivate a scientific mindset and inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

Ancient India’s Contribution to Science

India’s Technological  Achievements 

• India secured the 39th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2024 and 6th position in global Intellectual Property (IP) filings, as per the WIPO report. 
• The Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024 also marked India’s rise to 49th place from 79th in 2019, showcasing advancements in ICT infrastructure and digital transformation.
• India has also emerged as the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement. 
• India’s Agricultural Achievements: 
  • Green Revolution (1960s–1970s): Introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of wheat and rice.
  • White Revolution (1970s): India became the world’s largest milk producer, ending milk imports.
• India’s Indigenous Defence Technology Achievements: 
  • INS Kalvari (1967): India’s first indigenous naval submarine, marked the beginning of ‘Made-in-India’ defence capabilities.
  • Agni Series: Long-range ballistic missiles for strategic deterrence.
  • Prithvi Series: Surface-to-surface tactical missiles.
  • BrahMos: Co-developed with Russia, world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile.
  • Tejas (LCA): India’s first indigenously developed supersonic fighter jet.
  • INS Arihant: India’s first ballistic missile nuclear submarine.
  • INS Vikrant (2022): First indigenous aircraft carrier, a major naval milestone.
• India’s Indigenous Space Technology Achievements: 
  • Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India’s first lunar mission. Became the 4th country to send a probe to the moon.
    • Discovered water molecules on the lunar surface—a groundbreaking scientific achievement.
  • Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan, 2013): India became the first nation to reach Mars on its first attempt.
  • 104 Satellites in One Launch (2017): Set a world record for the most satellites deployed in a single mission.
  • Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Achieved a soft landing near the Moon’s south pole, a global first.
  • Aditya-L1 (2023): India’s first solar mission, studying the Sun’s outer layers.
  • Gaganyaan (2027): India’s first crewed spaceflight mission.
  • Shukrayaan (2028): Venus orbiter mission, aiming to explore the planet’s dense atmosphere.
• Digital Infrastructure:
  • Aadhaar: World’s largest biometric ID system.
  • UPI (Unified Payments Interface): Revolutionized digital payments and fintech.
    • India leads in real-time digital transactions globally.

Government Initiatives to Boost Technology Advancements:

• Make in India (2014): Boosts domestic manufacturing, including in high-tech sectors like defence, electronics, semiconductors, and space technology.
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Launched by NITI Aayog to promote a culture of innovation via: Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in schools, Atal Incubation Centres (AICs) for startups.
• National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS): Promotes R&D in AI, robotics, The Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, and more through dedicated Technology Innovation Hubs (TIHs).
• Technology Development Board (TDB): Provides financial support to commercialize indigenous technologies.
• National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): Aims to install a network of world-class supercomputers across premier institutions.
• National Quantum Mission (NQM): With an investment of ₹6003.65 crore over eight years, it is positioning India as a leader in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.
  • A total of 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 Union Territories are contributing to this mission.
• IN-SPACe and NSIL (NewSpace India Ltd): Promote private sector participation in India’s space programme.
• Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) & iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence): Encourage indigenous defence startups and MSMEs to build advanced technologies.
• INSPIRE Program (DST): Encourages students to pursue science education and careers in research through scholarships and internships.
• Budgetary Allocations and Growth:
  • Budgetary allocations for Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) have more than doubled, along with over a 100% increase in DST and DBT budgets. 
  • The space sector budget has nearly tripled, driven by the opening up of the sector to private participation—positioning India as a future-ready technological power.

Conclusion

• Government-led initiatives in India have created an ecosystem of innovation, skill development, and R&D that enables the country to grow as a global technological hub while ensuring inclusive benefits for its citizens.

IEA’s Global Methane Tracker 

Syllabus :GS 3/Environment

In News

• The International Energy Agency (IEA) released Global Methane Tracker 2025.

The IEA’s Global Methane Tracker 

• It is a vital tool for reducing methane emissions in the energy sector. 
• It offers updated estimates of emissions using the latest satellite and ground-based data, alongside information on the costs and opportunities for reduction. 
• The 2025 update will include new features such as country-level data on historical emissions, projections for 2030 and 2035, an interactive tool for exploring global methane initiatives, and estimates for emissions from abandoned fossil fuel facilities.
•  Additionally, it provides an open-access model for exploring methane reduction options in oil and gas operations.

Key Points 

• Methane is a greenhouse gas responsible for around 30 per cent of the rise in global temperatures since the Industrial Revolution. 
  • Its levels in the atmosphere are growing faster than other greenhouse gases, with its concentration being two-and-a-half times higher than the preindustrial era. 
• The three main sources of methane include agriculture, energy and waste sectors.
  • The energy sector — including oil, natural gas, coal and bioenergy — accounts for more than 35 per cent of methane emissions from human activity.
    • The energy sector emitted about 145 million tonnes (Mt) of methane in 2024, with oil and gas facilities contributing over 80 Mt. 
• Top methane-emitting countries from fossil fuels include: China, the United States, Russia, Iran, Turkmenistan, India, Venezuela, and Indonesia.

Challenges 

• The IEA also points out a major underreporting issue—actual methane emissions are 80% higher than reported to the UN.
• Only about 30 countries included methane reduction in their climate action plans (NDCs) for 2024, and just nine had measurable targets.
  • A new round of NDCs is due in 2025, with a few nations like Brazil, Canada, UAE, and the UK already incorporating methane measures.
• Few countries and companies have shown verified reductions since initiatives like the Global Methane Pledge (GMP) and the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter began.
  • Key emitters like China, India, and Russia, responsible for 45% of methane emissions, have not joined GMP.

Suggestions 

• The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights key actions to reduce methane emissions, including sealing abandoned coal mines, plugging and monitoring closed wells, and capturing methane for energy or flaring when recovery isn’t viable.
•  Bioenergy emissions can be reduced by promoting clean cooking, modern heating, and careful handling of biogas and biomethane to prevent leaks.
• The report reiterated that with current technologies, around 70 per cent of methane emissions from the fossil sector can be reduced.
  • For oil and gas sectors specifically, around 75 per cent of emissions can be reduced through well-known measures like upgrading leaky and high-emitting equipment or plugging leaky wells.

News In Facts 12-05-2025

Buddha Purnima

Syllabus: GS1/ History and Culture

Context

• This year the Vaishakh Buddha Purnima is being celebrated on 12th May.

Buddha Purnima

• Buddha Purnima is the most sacred festival for Buddhists, observed on the full moon day of Vaishakh (April-May).
  • The festival acts as a reminder to live a life of kindness, non-violence and wisdom.
• In India and other South and Southeast Asian nations, Buddha Purnima is celebrated as the “thrice-blessed day.” It marks the three major life events events in the life of Gautama Buddha:
  • Birth at Lumbini 
  • Enlightenment (Nirvana) at Bodh Gaya 
  • Mahaparinirvana (Death) at Kushinagar 
• However, in other parts of the world, the day signifies the birth of the Buddha while his spiritual awakening and death are honoured on separate occasions.
• Since 1999 it has also been recognized by the United Nations as the ‘UN Day of Vesak’. 

Lafora Disease

Syllabus: GS2/ Health

In News

• Researchers are hoping to find the treatment of Lafora Disease.

About

• Lafora disease is a rare, progressive, and fatal genetic disorder of the nervous system, classified under Progressive Myoclonic Epilepsies (PMEs).
• It was named after Spanish neuropathologist Gonzalo Rodríguez Lafora who first identified it. 
• The disease is caused by the accumulation of Lafora bodies—abnormal, insoluble glycogen-like structures—in the brain and other tissues.
• This buildup disrupts neuronal function, leading to seizures, cognitive decline, and motor dysfunction.
• Mainly caused by mutations in the EPM2A or EPM2B (NHLRC1) genes. Lafora disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, consanguineous marriages (marriage between close relatives) increases chances of getting this. 
• Currently, there is no cure for Lafora disease, and treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms.

First Round of Negotiations for the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement

Syllabus: GS2/ International Relations, GS3/ Economy

Context

• Recently, the first round of negotiations for the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) concluded successfully.

Bilateral Trade between India-New Zealand

• Total merchandise trade between the two countries has reached USD 1.3 billion in financial year  2024–25, registering a strong growth of 48.6% over the previous financial year.
  • India’s imports: Wool, Iron & Steel, Fruit & Nuts, Aluminium.
  • India’s exports: Pharmaceuticals, Mechanical Machinery, Made-up Textile Articles, Pearls, Precious Stones & Metals.

Equity Derivatives

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• Despite tightening of regulations in equity index derivatives, the trading activity of individuals in the segment continues to remain high.

About

• A Derivative is a financial instrument whose value is derived from the value of an underlying asset. 
  • The underlying asset can be equity shares or index, precious metals, commodities, currencies, interest rates etc. 
• A derivative instrument does not have any independent value. Its value is always dependent on the underlying assets. 
• These derivatives allow investors to gain exposure to a broad market or sector without having to own the underlying stocks.
• Uses of Equity Index Derivatives:
  • Hedging: Protecting a portfolio against market downturns.
  • Speculation: Taking directional bets on the market.
  • Arbitrage: Exploiting price differences between the derivative and the underlying index.
  • Asset allocation: Quickly gaining or reducing market exposure.

Musa Indandamanensis and Record Banana Infructescence

Syllabus: GS3/ S&T

In News

• An infructescence of about 4.2 metres has been recorded in a species of wild banana from Andaman and Nicobar islands, making it the longest infructescence recorded in bananas across the world.

What is Infructescence?

• Infructescence is a cluster or group of fruits arranged along a central axis or stem. It develops from an inflorescence (a cluster of flowers) after fertilization.
• In bananas, this is commonly seen in the form of a hanging bunch of fruits.

About the Discovery

• Musa indandamanensis was first discovered in 2012 in a remote tropical forest near the Krishna Nala Reserve Forest, Little Andaman.
• The species is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI).
• The infructescence, or fruit bunch axis, recorded initially at 3 metres, has now reached 4.2 metres, making it the longest ever recorded in any banana species worldwide.

Significance

• Biodiversity Value: Highlights the rich endemic flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Genetic Resource: Offers valuable traits for crop improvement in disease resistance & high yield potential.
• Research Potential: Useful for conservation biology, climate-resilient agriculture, and biotechnological innovations.

Asteroid YR4

Syllabus: GS3/ Space

In News

• NASA has announced that there is the probability of Asteroid YR4 colliding with the Moon by 2032.

About 

• YR4 is classified as a Near-Earth Asteroid (NEA), indicating its orbit brings it close to Earth’s orbital path.
• Discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), which operates from multiple locations globally.

What are Asteroids?

• Asteroids, sometimes called minor planets, are rocky, airless remnants left over from the early formation of our solar system about 4.6 billion years ago.
• Most asteroids can be found orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter within the main asteroid belt.

Initiatives Related to Asteroid Monitoring

• International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN): Established by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), is a global framework to coordinate asteroid detection, orbit prediction, and threat assessment.
• NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirect Test (DART): Launched in 2021, it successfully impacted asteroid Dimorphos in 2022 to demonstrate kinetic impactor technology for asteroid deflection.
• European Space Agency’s Hera Mission: Launched on October 7, 2024, its primary goal is to study the aftermath of NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission, which intentionally impacted the moonlet Dimorphos of the binary asteroid system Didymos in September 2022.
• ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System): Funded by NASA, is a global telescope network with observatories in Hawaii, Chile, and South Africa.
• International Asteroid Day: It is observed on 30th June to commemorate the Tunguska Event of 1908, the largest asteroid-related explosion in recorded history.

Territorial Army (TA)

Syllabus :GS 3/Security Agencies

Context

• Rule 33 empowers the Central Government to authorize the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) to call out the Territorial Army (TA).
  • This provision can be invoked to provide essential guard duties or to supplement and support the regular Indian Army.

What is the Territorial Army (TA)?

• About: It is a volunteer force that acts as a second line of defence after the regular Indian Army. Unlike full-time soldiers, TA members are civilians who take time out of their regular jobs (doctors, engineers, business owners, and more) to train and serve the country in times of need.
• History: The genesis of the Territorial Army in India can be traced back to the first war of Independence in 1857, when a Volunteer Force was raised. The TA in its current form came into being when the Territorial Army Act was enacted on Aug 18, 1948.
• Rank: It comprises officers, junior commissioned officers (JCOs), non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and other ranks — all holding ranks identical to the regular Indian Army.
• Strength: The TA currently has a strength of over 40,000 personnel organised into 32 infantry battalions and various engineer and departmental units.
• Nickname and Motto: The force is nicknamed the ‘Terriers’ and operates under the motto ‘Savdhani Va Shoorta’ (Vigilance and Valour).
• Command: It is commanded by a Director General of Territorial Army, a Lieutenant General-ranked officer deputed from the Indian Army, and falls under the Chief of Defence Staff through the Department of Military Affairs in the Ministry of Defence.

India-Pakistan Ceasefire Declaration

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

Context

• India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire after the military escalations.

About

• A ceasefire is an agreement between nations involved in a conflict that seeks to regulate the termination of all military activity for a given length of time in a given area.
• A ceasefire does not represent an end to hostilities. 
• It represents a truce, that is, “a temporary suspension of hostilities,” in both international as well as non-international armed conflicts.
• The remedies for a breach of a ceasefire are detailed in the Regulations Respecting the Law and Customs of War on Land, also called the Hague Regulations, that were formulated in 1910.
  • A serious breach of a truce by one of the involved parties gives the other a right to denounce it, and in urgent cases, to recommence hostilities immediately.
  • It authorises the “injured party to demand the punishment of the offenders or, if necessary, compensation for the losses sustained.

India-Pakistan Ceasefire Agreement

• Simla Agreement (1972): Between India and Pakistan (after the 1971 India-Pakistan war that led to the creation of Bangladesh)
  • Key Provisions: Both countries agreed to resolve issues bilaterally, without external intervention.
  • The Line of Control (LoC) was established in Jammu and Kashmir, replacing the former Ceasefire Line.
• 2003 Ceasefire Understanding: Applied to the entire LoC and other agreed sectors.
  • It was a mutual but informal understanding rather than a formal treaty.