UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June (2025)
• India’s Evolving Foreign Policy
India’s Evolving Foreign Policy
GS Paper 3:
• Drone – The New Face of Warfare
Drone – The New Face of Warfare
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• India’s FDI inflows in FY 2024–25
India’s FDI inflows in FY 2024–25
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park
India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park
• National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
• Bhagwan Birsa Munda
Bhagwan Birsa Munda
• Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
• ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2025
ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2025
• Asafoetida (Heeng)
Asafoetida (Heeng)
Mapping:
• Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025
#### GS Paper 2:
India’s Evolving Foreign Policy
Syllabus: India Foreign Policy
Source: DH
Context: India’s evolving foreign policy came under spotlight after Operation Sindoor, a decisive military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, reigniting debates on India’s strategic posture towards Pakistan and terrorism.
About India’s Evolving Foreign Policy:
• Idealism of the Nehru Era (1947–1962) Non-alignment as strategic posture: India refused to align with Cold War power blocs. Anti-colonial leadership: Supported decolonisation across Asia and Africa. Faith in multilateralism: Trusted the UN system and collective global institutions.
• Non-alignment as strategic posture: India refused to align with Cold War power blocs.
• Anti-colonial leadership: Supported decolonisation across Asia and Africa.
• Faith in multilateralism: Trusted the UN system and collective global institutions.
• Moral Diplomacy and Peace Principles (1950s–Early 1960s) Adoption of Panchsheel: Advanced peaceful coexistence and respect for sovereignty. Gandhian influence on diplomacy: Emphasised ethics, dialogue, and non-violence. Peace through bilateralism: Rejected coercion; promoted trust-building measures.
• Adoption of Panchsheel: Advanced peaceful coexistence and respect for sovereignty.
• Gandhian influence on diplomacy: Emphasised ethics, dialogue, and non-violence.
• Peace through bilateralism: Rejected coercion; promoted trust-building measures.
• Shift to Realpolitik (Post-1962 War Phase) National interest over ideology: Prioritised hard power and security preparedness. Strengthening border defence: Reoriented policies to address external threats. Rise of defence institutions: Boosted indigenous arms and strategic planning.
• National interest over ideology: Prioritised hard power and security preparedness.
• Strengthening border defence: Reoriented policies to address external threats.
• Rise of defence institutions: Boosted indigenous arms and strategic planning.
• Nuclearization & Strategic Assertiveness (1974–1998) Pursuit of autonomous deterrence: Maintained sovereign decision-making in security. Indigenous capability development: Focused on self-reliant nuclear infrastructure. Rejection of external pressure: Resisted NPT/CTBT to safeguard strategic autonomy.
• Pursuit of autonomous deterrence: Maintained sovereign decision-making in security.
• Indigenous capability development: Focused on self-reliant nuclear infrastructure.
• Rejection of external pressure: Resisted NPT/CTBT to safeguard strategic autonomy.
• Counterterrorism Doctrine (2000s–2019) Shift from restraint to retaliation: Adopted offensive-defensive security approach. Use of calibrated military action: Integrated diplomacy with precision operations. Redefined internal-external threat linkage: Recognised cross-border terror as war proxy.
• Shift from restraint to retaliation: Adopted offensive-defensive security approach.
• Use of calibrated military action: Integrated diplomacy with precision operations.
• Redefined internal-external threat linkage: Recognised cross-border terror as war proxy.
• Operation Sindoor & Strategic Clarity (2025 Onward) Codification of pre-emptive strikes: Operationalised strike-first policy on terror. Assertive neighbourhood posture: Reinforced zero-tolerance against proxy threats. Public signalling of intent: Demonstrated capacity and will to escalate if needed.
• Codification of pre-emptive strikes: Operationalised strike-first policy on terror.
• Assertive neighbourhood posture: Reinforced zero-tolerance against proxy threats.
• Public signalling of intent: Demonstrated capacity and will to escalate if needed.
Challenges to Evolving Foreign Policy:
• Pakistan’s Proxy War Strategy: Continuous use of non-state actors and the “Bleeding India with a Thousand Cuts” doctrine poses security threats.
E.g. Pahalgam 2025 killings, Uri 2016, 26/11 attacks.
• China’s Aggressive Posture: Border tensions, especially post-Galwan clash, test India’s diplomacy and deterrence.
E.g. Line of Actual Control violations.
• Balancing Soft Power with Hard Response: India must preserve its civilizational values while using force against terrorism, a tightrope challenge.
• Global Perception Management: Military assertiveness may invite global scrutiny, requiring India to justify actions in global forums.
• Geopolitical Realignment Pressures: Strategic partnerships with USA, Quad, BRICS, and West Asia require delicate recalibration of non-alignment.
Way Ahead for Indian Foreign Policy:
• Adopt Realistic Non-Alignment: Shift from passive NAM to strategic autonomy through flexible alliances without compromising sovereignty.
• Invest in Indigenous Defence: Boost Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence to reduce foreign dependency.
E.g. DRDO’s BrahMos, Agni, INS Arihant.
• Use of Proactive Deterrence: Continue doctrine of proportional retaliation to deter cross-border terrorism.
• Strengthen Global Alliances: Enhance strategic ties with US, France, Japan, and Middle East for multi-vector diplomacy.
• Leverage Diplomacy for Global Standing: Take leadership on global issues like terrorism, climate change, and AI governance to shape world order.
Conclusion:
India’s foreign policy has evolved from the moral compass of Nehru to a muscular, self-reliant, and assertive framework in 2025. While rooted in peace, it now incorporates strategic defence, economic autonomy, and global leadership. The journey reflects India’s growing confidence to protect its interests without compromising its identity.
• Project ‘Mausam’ is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of the Indian Government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss. (2015)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025 GS Paper 3:
Drone – The New Face of Warfare
Syllabus: Defence & Technology
Source: TH
Context: India’s Operation Sindoor, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, showcased a shift in military doctrine through the use of combat drones alongside stand-off weapons — underlining their rising role in India’s national security strategy.
About Drone – The New Face of Warfare:
• What Are Drones? Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft operated without a human pilot onboard, controlled remotely or autonomously via AI.
• Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft operated without a human pilot onboard, controlled remotely or autonomously via AI.
• Types of Drones:
• Surveillance Drones: Used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions to monitor enemy movement.
E.g. Heron and Searcher drones are deployed for border patrolling and tactical surveillance.
• Combat Drones (UCAVs): Armed drones capable of precision strikes without endangering pilots.
E.g. Heron TP and MQ-9 Reaper carry missiles for surgical operations in hostile zones.
• Loitering Munitions: Drones that hover before self-destructing on target, ideal for high-value attacks.
E.g. Harpy and Nagastra-1 target radar systems and mobile missile units.
• Swarm Drones: Multiple drones operated via AI coordination to saturate defences and confuse radars.
• Nano/Micro Drones: Extremely small drones for short-range, indoor, or urban surveillance tasks.
E.g. Black Hornet is used by infantry for room-to-room clearance and intelligence.
Key Features of Modern Military Drones:
• Stealth and AI Integration: Drones like DRDO Aura use radar-evading design with AI for target identification.
• EO/IR Sensors and Data Links: Electro-optical and infrared sensors provide day-night surveillance, linked to ground stations.
• Long-Range, High-Endurance: Drone range varies from a few km to over 7,000 km with up to 52 hours of flight.
Roles of Drones in Modern Warfare:
• Reconnaissance and Precision Strikes: Combine observation and attack capabilities to eliminate specific threats.
E.g. Reaper drone targeted Iran’s General Soleimani without collateral damage.
• Electronic and Tactical Warfare: Loitering drones can suppress air defence, others jam enemy signals.
• Logistics and Convoy Support: Drones can drop supplies or scout ahead of moving convoys for threats.
• Psychological and Area Denial: Constant drone presence can demoralize enemies and deter movement.
E.g. Ukraine-Russia war saw drones used to dominate no-man’s-land areas.
Drones Are Changing Modern Warfare:
• Asymmetric Superiority: Low-cost drones can destroy high-value defence systems, shifting the cost-benefit equation of war.
E.g. Ukraine used $2,000 drones to disable Russia’s advanced S-300 air defence systems.
• Strategic Depth and Precision: Armed drones enable precise long-range strikes without endangering pilots or ground troops.
E.g. The MQ-9 Reaper eliminated Iranian General Soleimani with zero troop deployment.
• Real-time ISR Advantage: Drones offer real-time surveillance data critical for rapid border response and disaster operations.
E.g. Heron drones in Ladakh provided live monitoring during the India-China standoff.
• Swarm & Kamikaze Tactics: Dozens of small drones overwhelm enemy air defences using quantity over quality.
E.g. Azerbaijan’s drone swarms crippled Armenian positions in Nagorno-Karabakh (2020).
• Blurring Military-Civilian Divide: Commercial drones modified with payloads now serve in modern irregular and hybrid warfare.
E.g. Myanmar rebels deploy 3D-printed drones for targeted strikes on military outposts.
Challenges in Drone Warfare:
• Counter-Drone Vulnerabilities: Drones can be jammed, spoofed, or shot down easily using electromagnetic or kinetic countermeasures.
• High Attrition in Conflict: Drone survivability is low when facing layered defences with radar-guided interceptors.
• Civilian Misuse Risk: Drones are easily accessible and can be weaponised by terrorists or insurgent groups.
• Regulatory and Airspace Gaps: India’s drone laws still lack clear mechanisms for seamless civil-military coordination.
• Slow Domestic Production: Inconsistent procurement discourages private drone manufacturers from scaling operations.
Way Forward for India:
• Drone Swarm Development: Accelerate indigenous swarm drone tech using AI coordination for offensive and defensive ops.
• Integrated Air Defence: Expand radar-drone integration under IACCS to pre-empt and neutralize drone threats.
• Indigenous Ecosystem Push: Promote startups like Idea Forge and Solar Industries via fast-track defence procurement.
• Mass Production Infrastructure: Enable scalable drone production using modular 3D printing and dual-use industry support.
• AI and Autonomous Upgrades: Invest in autonomous navigation, terrain-mapping, and EW resilience to bypass defences.
Conclusion:
Drones have revolutionized modern warfare by merging intelligence with strike precision. As India upgrades its drone doctrine, the focus must shift from selective imports to robust, self-sustaining production. Mastery over drone technology will define India’s edge in future conflicts.
• Foreign direct investment in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized. What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run? (2014)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
India’s FDI inflows in FY 2024–25
Source: ET
Context: Maharashtra and Karnataka together attracted 51% of India’s total FDI inflows in FY 2024–25, while Delhi’s share fell sharply from 32% in 2015–16 to just 12% in 2024–25.
About India’s FDI inflows in FY 2024–25:
• What is FDI?
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to cross-border investments where foreign entities invest in and control business operations in another country. In India, FDI is a key non-debt financial resource for economic development, regulated by DPIIT under automatic and government routes.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to cross-border investments where foreign entities invest in and control business operations in another country.
• In India, FDI is a key non-debt financial resource for economic development, regulated by DPIIT under automatic and government routes.
• Key FDI Trends in FY 2024–25:
• Total FDI inflows stood at $81.04 billion, registering a 14% growth, the highest in three years. Maharashtra topped with $19.6 billion (31%), followed by Karnataka with $6.62 billion (20%). Delhi, once the top FDI destination (32% in 2015–16), saw its share drop to 12% ($6 billion). Gujarat’s share rose from 6% to 11%, while Tamil Nadu’s share declined from 11% to 7%. Experts cite improved infrastructure, policy stability, and mature industrial ecosystems in Maharashtra and Karnataka as key factors behind investor shift.
• Total FDI inflows stood at $81.04 billion, registering a 14% growth, the highest in three years.
• Maharashtra topped with $19.6 billion (31%), followed by Karnataka with $6.62 billion (20%).
• Delhi, once the top FDI destination (32% in 2015–16), saw its share drop to 12% ($6 billion).
• Gujarat’s share rose from 6% to 11%, while Tamil Nadu’s share declined from 11% to 7%.
• Experts cite improved infrastructure, policy stability, and mature industrial ecosystems in Maharashtra and Karnataka as key factors behind investor shift.
Relevance to UPSC Syllabus:
• GS Paper 3 (Indian Economy): FDI trends illustrate capital flow dynamics, ease of doing business, infrastructure development, and investment climate.
• GS Paper 2 (Governance): Reflects impact of federal policies and centre–state coordination in attracting investments.
• Essay & Interview: Useful for topics on economic reforms, urbanisation, and regional development disparities.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June Facts for Prelims (FFP)
India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park
Source: NDTV
Context: Delhi has announced the establishment of India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park in Holambi Kalan to tackle the capital’s electronic waste and promote circular economy.
About India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park:
• What is the E-Waste Eco Park? The E-Waste Eco Park is a specialized facility in Delhi for the scientific recycling, dismantling, and recovery of electronic waste. It is designed to serve as a model for sustainable e-waste management and promote India’s shift toward a circular economy.
• The E-Waste Eco Park is a specialized facility in Delhi for the scientific recycling, dismantling, and recovery of electronic waste.
• It is designed to serve as a model for sustainable e-waste management and promote India’s shift toward a circular economy.
• Announced by: Delhi’s Environment Minister.
• Location: Holambi Kalan, North Delhi.
• Operating Model: Based on the DBFOT (Design, Build, Finance, Operate, Transfer) model under Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
• Global tender to be floated by Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC).
• Global tender to be floated by Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC).
• Concession period: 15 years.
• Key Features of E-Waste Eco Park: Integrated Recycling Infrastructure: Spread over 11.4 acres, the park will include facilities for collection, dismantling, recycling, and refurbishment. It targets processing 51,000 metric tonnes of e-waste annually with scientific metal recovery. Comprehensive Waste Coverage: It will manage all 106 e-waste categories under the E-Waste Management Rules, 2022 — from phones and laptops to industrial and solar equipment. PPP-Based Green Investment Model: To be built under a DBFOT model via Public-Private Partnership, with a 15-year concession. DSIIDC will invite global green-tech firms via RFQ-RFP. Economic and Employment Boost: With ₹150 crore investment and ₹350 crore revenue target, it will create thousands of green jobs. Training centres will upskill informal workers. Fast Execution with National Impact: The project will be completed in 18 months, setting a benchmark for sustainable e-waste infrastructure nationwide.
• Integrated Recycling Infrastructure: Spread over 11.4 acres, the park will include facilities for collection, dismantling, recycling, and refurbishment. It targets processing 51,000 metric tonnes of e-waste annually with scientific metal recovery.
• Comprehensive Waste Coverage: It will manage all 106 e-waste categories under the E-Waste Management Rules, 2022 — from phones and laptops to industrial and solar equipment.
• PPP-Based Green Investment Model: To be built under a DBFOT model via Public-Private Partnership, with a 15-year concession. DSIIDC will invite global green-tech firms via RFQ-RFP.
• Economic and Employment Boost: With ₹150 crore investment and ₹350 crore revenue target, it will create thousands of green jobs. Training centres will upskill informal workers.
• Fast Execution with National Impact: The project will be completed in 18 months, setting a benchmark for sustainable e-waste infrastructure nationwide.
• Significance:
• Environmental Sustainability: Reduces hazardous dumping, encourages safe recovery of rare earth elements. Circular Economy Model: Promotes reuse, recycling, and responsible resource utilization. Job Creation: Supports local dismantlers, recyclers, and refurbishes—boosting green employment. Urban Governance: Strengthens Delhi’s waste infrastructure and positions the city as a national sustainability leader. National Impact: Serves as a template for upcoming e-waste parks in other states.
• Environmental Sustainability: Reduces hazardous dumping, encourages safe recovery of rare earth elements.
• Circular Economy Model: Promotes reuse, recycling, and responsible resource utilization.
• Job Creation: Supports local dismantlers, recyclers, and refurbishes—boosting green employment.
• Urban Governance: Strengthens Delhi’s waste infrastructure and positions the city as a national sustainability leader.
• National Impact: Serves as a template for upcoming e-waste parks in other states.
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
Source: BS
Context: Union Finance Minister chaired the 6th meeting of the Governing Council of National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) in New Delhi. The meeting reviewed fund performance, strategic partnerships, and new fund launches.
About National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF):
• What is NIIF? NIIF is a government-anchored investment platform that mobilizes long-term capital for infrastructure and strategic sectors in India. It serves as a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF)-linked asset manager with independent decision-making.
• NIIF is a government-anchored investment platform that mobilizes long-term capital for infrastructure and strategic sectors in India. It serves as a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF)-linked asset manager with independent decision-making.
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Finance, Department of Economic Affairs
• Established in: 2015 (Announced in Union Budget 2015-16)
• Key Features of NIIF:
• Public-Private Fund Structure: Government holds 49% equity, remaining 51% from global investors such as ADIA, Temasek, and CPPIB. SEBI-Registered AIF: Registered as a Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) in December 2015. Professional Management: Managed by a seasoned team, currently led by CEO & MD Sanjiv Aggarwal, appointed in February 2024. Robust AUM Growth: NIIF now manages over ₹30,000 crore (US$4.9 billion) in Assets Under Management (AUM), catalysing capital worth ₹1.17 lakh crore. Collaborative Investment Model: Strong institutional partnerships with sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and multilateral banks (ADB, AIIB, NDB).
• Public-Private Fund Structure: Government holds 49% equity, remaining 51% from global investors such as ADIA, Temasek, and CPPIB.
• SEBI-Registered AIF: Registered as a Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) in December 2015.
• Professional Management: Managed by a seasoned team, currently led by CEO & MD Sanjiv Aggarwal, appointed in February 2024.
• Robust AUM Growth: NIIF now manages over ₹30,000 crore (US$4.9 billion) in Assets Under Management (AUM), catalysing capital worth ₹1.17 lakh crore.
• Collaborative Investment Model: Strong institutional partnerships with sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and multilateral banks (ADB, AIIB, NDB).
• Governing Council of NIIF:
• Chaired by: Union Finance Minister Advises on strategy, governance, capital mobilization, and fund deployment. Set to meet annually going forward to guide NIIF’s evolving mandate.
• Chaired by: Union Finance Minister
• Advises on strategy, governance, capital mobilization, and fund deployment.
• Set to meet annually going forward to guide NIIF’s evolving mandate.
• Functions of NIIF:
• Capital Mobilization: Attracts domestic and international capital for Indian infrastructure. Investment Management: Deploys equity in commercially viable infrastructure and related sectors. Strategic Partnerships: Builds platforms with sovereign and institutional partners. Policy Support: Aligns investments with national priorities like Make in India, green energy, and digital infrastructure.
• Capital Mobilization: Attracts domestic and international capital for Indian infrastructure.
• Investment Management: Deploys equity in commercially viable infrastructure and related sectors.
• Strategic Partnerships: Builds platforms with sovereign and institutional partners.
• Policy Support: Aligns investments with national priorities like Make in India, green energy, and digital infrastructure.
Bhagwan Birsa Munda
Source: FPJ
Context: Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his 125th death anniversary (Balidan Diwas), praising his role in tribal empowerment and anti-colonial resistance.
About Bhagwan Birsa Munda:
• Who Was Birsa Munda? A revered tribal freedom fighter, reformer, and folk hero, also called “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth). Born on 15 November 1875 in Ulihatu, Chotanagpur Plateau (present-day Jharkhand), he belonged to the Munda tribe.
• A revered tribal freedom fighter, reformer, and folk hero, also called “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth).
• Born on 15 November 1875 in Ulihatu, Chotanagpur Plateau (present-day Jharkhand), he belonged to the Munda tribe.
• Early Life and Influences: Educated in Christian missionary schools in Chaibasa, later disillusioned with British influence. Deeply inspired by Vaishnavism and tribal spiritual traditions, he established the Birsait sect, attracting tribal masses.
• Educated in Christian missionary schools in Chaibasa, later disillusioned with British influence.
• Deeply inspired by Vaishnavism and tribal spiritual traditions, he established the Birsait sect, attracting tribal masses.
• Contribution to the Freedom Movement: Fought Against Zamindari Exploitation: Exposed how the British-imposed zamindari system destroyed the Khuntkatti tribal land ownership, turning tribals into landless bonded labourers. Defended Tribal Land Rights: Mobilized tribals against forced labour (beth begari), forest exploitation, and revenue policies that stripped them of community-owned resources. Cultural and Spiritual Revivalist: Founded the Birsait sect, blending tribal traditions with Vaishnavism, and condemned social evils like black magic and alcoholism among tribes. Educated Tribals on Colonial Injustice: Raised consciousness about British atrocities, urging tribal pride, self-rule, and cultural resistance to Dikus (outsiders). Symbol of Tribal Unity and Justice: Emerged as a voice of resistance for tribal dignity, inspiring regional revolts and a vision for an egalitarian tribal raj rooted in indigenous systems.
• Fought Against Zamindari Exploitation: Exposed how the British-imposed zamindari system destroyed the Khuntkatti tribal land ownership, turning tribals into landless bonded labourers.
• Defended Tribal Land Rights: Mobilized tribals against forced labour (beth begari), forest exploitation, and revenue policies that stripped them of community-owned resources.
• Cultural and Spiritual Revivalist: Founded the Birsait sect, blending tribal traditions with Vaishnavism, and condemned social evils like black magic and alcoholism among tribes.
• Educated Tribals on Colonial Injustice: Raised consciousness about British atrocities, urging tribal pride, self-rule, and cultural resistance to Dikus (outsiders).
• Symbol of Tribal Unity and Justice: Emerged as a voice of resistance for tribal dignity, inspiring regional revolts and a vision for an egalitarian tribal raj rooted in indigenous systems.
• Ulgulan Movement – The Great Tumult (1895–1900): Launched Anti-British Rebellion: Led the Ulgulan (Great Tumult) to fight colonial oppression across Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bengal, mobilizing Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes. Used Guerrilla Warfare: Adopted guerrilla tactics to target British outposts, churches, and police stations, attacking the symbols of colonial and missionary power. Propagated a Vision of Tribal Raj: Raised the iconic slogan: “Abua Raj setar jana, Maharani Raj tundu jana” (“End the Queen’s rule, let our rule begin”), calling for self-governance. Symbolic Use of Tribal Identity: Used traditional tribal attire, drums, and flags to unify people and restore pride in their ancestral customs and governance systems. Martyrdom and Aftermath: Arrested in 1895 and died in Ranchi Jail in 1900. His movement influenced the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908), securing tribal land rights.
• Launched Anti-British Rebellion: Led the Ulgulan (Great Tumult) to fight colonial oppression across Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bengal, mobilizing Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes.
• Used Guerrilla Warfare: Adopted guerrilla tactics to target British outposts, churches, and police stations, attacking the symbols of colonial and missionary power.
• Propagated a Vision of Tribal Raj: Raised the iconic slogan: “Abua Raj setar jana, Maharani Raj tundu jana” (“End the Queen’s rule, let our rule begin”), calling for self-governance.
• Symbolic Use of Tribal Identity: Used traditional tribal attire, drums, and flags to unify people and restore pride in their ancestral customs and governance systems.
• Martyrdom and Aftermath: Arrested in 1895 and died in Ranchi Jail in 1900. His movement influenced the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908), securing tribal land rights.
• Legacy & Recognition: Honoured as “Bhagwan” for his courage and cultural leadership. Institutions named after him: Birsa Agricultural University, Birsa Institute of Technology, etc. Government of India declared November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day) in 2021.
• Honoured as “Bhagwan” for his courage and cultural leadership.
• Institutions named after him: Birsa Agricultural University, Birsa Institute of Technology, etc.
• Government of India declared November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day) in 2021.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
Source: DD News
Context: The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) marks 9 impactful years in improving maternal health outcomes across India.
About Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA):
• What is PMSMA?
• PMSMA is a flagship maternal health programme of the Government of India. Launched in June 2016 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, it provides free and quality antenatal care (ANC) to pregnant women on the 9th of every month.
• PMSMA is a flagship maternal health programme of the Government of India.
• Launched in June 2016 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, it provides free and quality antenatal care (ANC) to pregnant women on the 9th of every month.
• Objectives of PMSMA:
• Ensure at least one ANC check-up in the 2nd or 3rd trimester by a trained specialist. Promote early detection and management of high-risk pregnancies (HRPs). Improve quality of care through diagnostics, counselling, and risk stratification. Identify and track HRPs through a name-based monitoring system. Raise awareness and mobilize private sector participation to supplement public services.
• Ensure at least one ANC check-up in the 2nd or 3rd trimester by a trained specialist.
• Promote early detection and management of high-risk pregnancies (HRPs).
• Improve quality of care through diagnostics, counselling, and risk stratification.
• Identify and track HRPs through a name-based monitoring system.
• Raise awareness and mobilize private sector participation to supplement public services.
• Key Features of PMSMA:
• Fixed ANC Days: Pregnant women receive a standard package of ANC services every 9th of the month at government health facilities. Specialist-Driven: Services provided by OB-GYNs, radiologists, and physicians, including private doctors volunteering in public hospitals. Single Window Service: Provides investigations (e.g., ultrasound), IFA/calcium supplements, and counselling in one visit. Risk Tagging: Use of green stickers (no risk) and red stickers (HRP) on MCP cards to classify pregnancies. Digital Monitoring: Operates through a national portal and mobile app, ensuring transparency and follow-up.
• Fixed ANC Days: Pregnant women receive a standard package of ANC services every 9th of the month at government health facilities.
• Specialist-Driven: Services provided by OB-GYNs, radiologists, and physicians, including private doctors volunteering in public hospitals.
• Single Window Service: Provides investigations (e.g., ultrasound), IFA/calcium supplements, and counselling in one visit.
• Risk Tagging: Use of green stickers (no risk) and red stickers (HRP) on MCP cards to classify pregnancies.
• Digital Monitoring: Operates through a national portal and mobile app, ensuring transparency and follow-up.
• About Extended Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (e-PMSMA):
• Launched in: January 2022, the initiative strengthens maternal health surveillance by ensuring continuous monitoring of high-risk pregnancies up to 45 days after delivery.
• Launched in: January 2022, the initiative strengthens maternal health surveillance by ensuring continuous monitoring of high-risk pregnancies up to 45 days after delivery.
• Features:
• It enables a digital follow-up mechanism through automated SMS alerts sent to both pregnant women and ASHAs for timely check-ups. Financial incentives are provided to pregnant women and ASHAs who successfully complete three additional antenatal care visits beyond the standard coverage. The programme allows up to four antenatal care sessions per month in vulnerable or underserved areas to ensure better coverage and timely intervention.
• It enables a digital follow-up mechanism through automated SMS alerts sent to both pregnant women and ASHAs for timely check-ups.
• Financial incentives are provided to pregnant women and ASHAs who successfully complete three additional antenatal care visits beyond the standard coverage.
• The programme allows up to four antenatal care sessions per month in vulnerable or underserved areas to ensure better coverage and timely intervention.
ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2025
Source: LM
Context: Former India captain MS Dhoni has been inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2025, becoming the 11th Indian to receive this global honour.
• He joins six other cricketing legends, including two women players, in the elite 2025 inductee list.
About ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2025:
• What is It? The ICC Hall of Fame is a prestigious global recognition platform that honours cricketing legends for their historic contributions to the game across generations and countries.
• The ICC Hall of Fame is a prestigious global recognition platform that honours cricketing legends for their historic contributions to the game across generations and countries.
• Establishment: Launched on January 2, 2009 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in partnership with the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA). It absorbed 55 players initially honoured by FICA (1999–2003), plus 5 new additions in 2009.
• Launched on January 2, 2009 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in partnership with the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA).
• It absorbed 55 players initially honoured by FICA (1999–2003), plus 5 new additions in 2009.
• Eligibility & Criteria: Cricketers become eligible five years after retirement from international cricket. Induction is based on overall impact, records, consistency, leadership, and influence on the game. Both men and women across formats are eligible.
• Cricketers become eligible five years after retirement from international cricket.
• Induction is based on overall impact, records, consistency, leadership, and influence on the game.
• Both men and women across formats are eligible.
• Key Features: Recognition across eras: The Hall of Fame includes legends from pre- and post-World War cricket history. Global representation: Celebrates players from all Test-playing nations, including emerging women cricketers. Commemorative Cap: Each inductee receives a special Hall of Fame cap symbolizing their legacy. Annual Ceremony: Inductions are announced annually, often around ICC events or milestones.
• Recognition across eras: The Hall of Fame includes legends from pre- and post-World War cricket history.
• Global representation: Celebrates players from all Test-playing nations, including emerging women cricketers.
• Commemorative Cap: Each inductee receives a special Hall of Fame cap symbolizing their legacy.
• Annual Ceremony: Inductions are announced annually, often around ICC events or milestones.
• Indian Cricketers in the ICC Hall of Fame Total Indian inductees: 11 Notable names include: Bishan Singh Bedi (2009), Kapil Dev (2009), Sunil Gavaskar (2009), Anil Kumble (2015), Rahul Dravid (2018), Sachin Tendulkar (2019), Vinoo Mankad (2021), Virender Sehwag (2023), and MS Dhoni (2025). Women Inductees from India: Diana Edulji (2023) Neetu David (2023)
• Total Indian inductees: 11
• Notable names include: Bishan Singh Bedi (2009), Kapil Dev (2009), Sunil Gavaskar (2009), Anil Kumble (2015), Rahul Dravid (2018), Sachin Tendulkar (2019), Vinoo Mankad (2021), Virender Sehwag (2023), and MS Dhoni (2025).
• Women Inductees from India: Diana Edulji (2023) Neetu David (2023)
• Diana Edulji (2023)
• Neetu David (2023)
Asafoetida (Heeng)
Source: TH
Context: CSIR-IHBT reported the first flowering and seed set of asafoetida (heeng) at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh confirming its successful acclimatisation and domestication in Indian soil.
About Asafoetida (Heeng):
• What is Asafoetida? Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) is a perennial medicinal and culinary spice derived from the oleo-gum resin of the plant’s taproot. Known as heeng in India, it is widely used in Indian cuisines and mentioned in Ayurveda and ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita for its digestive and aromatic properties.
• Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) is a perennial medicinal and culinary spice derived from the oleo-gum resin of the plant’s taproot.
• Known as heeng in India, it is widely used in Indian cuisines and mentioned in Ayurveda and ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita for its digestive and aromatic properties.
• Cultivation Zones: Naturally grown in cold arid climates of Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. Requires sandy, well-drained soils, low rainfall (<300 mm), and temperatures ranging from –4°C to 40°C. In India, ideal regions include Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Uttarkashi, and other high-altitude valleys.
• Naturally grown in cold arid climates of Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
• Requires sandy, well-drained soils, low rainfall (<300 mm), and temperatures ranging from –4°C to 40°C.
• In India, ideal regions include Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Uttarkashi, and other high-altitude valleys.
• Features of Asafoetida: Long Maturation Cycle: Takes 5 years to mature before flowering and resin extraction. Oleoresin Source: Resin (heeng) forms 40–64% of dried gum tapped from its fleshy root system. Drought Tolerant: Dormant in extreme winters, survives with minimal water. Medicinal Value: Known for treating digestive issues, bloating, abdominal pain, and stimulating metabolism. Cultural Importance: Mentioned in Mahabharata, Panini’s works, and used in rituals and cuisine across India.
• Long Maturation Cycle: Takes 5 years to mature before flowering and resin extraction.
• Oleoresin Source: Resin (heeng) forms 40–64% of dried gum tapped from its fleshy root system.
• Drought Tolerant: Dormant in extreme winters, survives with minimal water.
• Medicinal Value: Known for treating digestive issues, bloating, abdominal pain, and stimulating metabolism.
• Cultural Importance: Mentioned in Mahabharata, Panini’s works, and used in rituals and cuisine across India.
• Significance of Indigenous Cultivation: Self-Reliance: India, once 100% import-dependent, now aims to become a domestic producer of heeng. Agro-Ecological Breakthrough: Successful cultivation in Palampur (1300 m) proves adaptability beyond cold deserts. National Milestone: Establishment of Heeng Germplasm Resource Centre (2022) and development of tissue culture labs for scaling up.
• Self-Reliance: India, once 100% import-dependent, now aims to become a domestic producer of heeng.
• Agro-Ecological Breakthrough: Successful cultivation in Palampur (1300 m) proves adaptability beyond cold deserts.
• National Milestone: Establishment of Heeng Germplasm Resource Centre (2022) and development of tissue culture labs for scaling up.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 10 June 2025 Place in News:
Gangotri National Park
Source: HT
Context: Residents of Uttarkashi have raised strong objections to the illegal operation of a waste incinerator inside the Gangotri National Park, citing pollution in the Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone and violation of environmental laws.
About Gangotri National Park:
• Gangotri National Park is a high-altitude protected area in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, covering 2,390 sq km.
• It plays a crucial role in preserving Himalayan biodiversity and the Gangotri Glacier, the origin of River Ganga.
• Location: Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, along the upper Bhagirathi River catchment. Shares borders with Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Govind National Park. Forms part of India’s international boundary with Tibet (China). Includes iconic peaks like Chaukhamba I–III, Satopanth, and Kedarnath Main.
• Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, along the upper Bhagirathi River catchment.
• Shares borders with Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Govind National Park.
• Forms part of India’s international boundary with Tibet (China).
• Includes iconic peaks like Chaukhamba I–III, Satopanth, and Kedarnath Main.
• Flora (Vegetation Zones): Western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests dominate lower elevations (fir, oak, spruce, deodar). Rhododendron shrubs and alpine meadows thrive at higher altitudes below glaciers. Above 3,500 m, alpine shrublands and grasslands support cold-adapted vegetation.
• Western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests dominate lower elevations (fir, oak, spruce, deodar).
• Rhododendron shrubs and alpine meadows thrive at higher altitudes below glaciers.
• Above 3,500 m, alpine shrublands and grasslands support cold-adapted vegetation.
• Fauna: Critical habitat for snow leopards, a high-altitude apex predator. Supports rare species like the musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep (bharal). Other animals include brown bears, Asian black bears, and monals. Acts as a corridor for migratory birds and rare Himalayan butterflies.
• Critical habitat for snow leopards, a high-altitude apex predator.
• Supports rare species like the musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep (bharal).
• Other animals include brown bears, Asian black bears, and monals.
• Acts as a corridor for migratory birds and rare Himalayan butterflies.
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