UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 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 – 11 August (2025)

• India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor & Gaza War

India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor & Gaza War

GS Paper 3:

• AI and the Restructuring of India’s Infotech Sector

AI and the Restructuring of India’s Infotech Sector

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• Defence Production in India FY 2024-25

Defence Production in India FY 2024-25

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• India’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory

India’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory

• Kakori Conspiracy Case

Kakori Conspiracy Case

• PM E-Drive Subsidy Scheme

PM E-Drive Subsidy Scheme

• Khelo India ASMITA

Khelo India ASMITA

• Tritium

Tritium

• 16th Lion Population Estimation Report

16th Lion Population Estimation Report

Mapping:

• Bhagirathi River

Bhagirathi River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025

#### GS Paper 2:

India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor & Gaza War

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: IE

Context: India hosted envoys from partner nations to discuss progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Talks focused on trade, energy, and digital connectivity despite delays caused by the Gaza conflict.

About India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor & Gaza War:

Genesis and Objectives of IMEC

• Launched: G20 Summit, New Delhi (Sept 2023).

• Partners: India, Saudi Arabia, UAE, EU, France, Italy, Germany, US, Israel, Jordan.

• Structure: Eastern Leg – India’s western ports → UAE (sea) → Saudi Arabia, Jordan (rail) → Haifa, Israel (port). Western Leg – Haifa → Greece/Italy (sea) → onward into Europe via existing rail network.

• Eastern Leg – India’s western ports → UAE (sea) → Saudi Arabia, Jordan (rail) → Haifa, Israel (port).

• Western Leg – Haifa → Greece/Italy (sea) → onward into Europe via existing rail network.

• Key Components: High-speed freight rail across the Arabian Peninsula. Energy pipelines for clean hydrogen. Digital infrastructure (subsea cables, e.g., Blue Raman project: Mumbai–Genoa). Trade facilitation measures to boost efficiency and lower costs.

• High-speed freight rail across the Arabian Peninsula.

• Energy pipelines for clean hydrogen.

• Digital infrastructure (subsea cables, e.g., Blue Raman project: Mumbai–Genoa).

• Trade facilitation measures to boost efficiency and lower costs.

Strategic Significance for India:

• Trade and Economic Integration:

• EU is India’s largest trading partner ($137.41 bn in FY 2023-24). Enhanced connectivity can diversify trade routes away from chokepoints like the Suez Canal and Red Sea.

• EU is India’s largest trading partner ($137.41 bn in FY 2023-24).

• Enhanced connectivity can diversify trade routes away from chokepoints like the Suez Canal and Red Sea.

• Energy Security:

• Opportunity to participate in green hydrogen supply chains. Integration with Gulf energy infrastructure supports India’s clean energy transition.

• Opportunity to participate in green hydrogen supply chains.

• Integration with Gulf energy infrastructure supports India’s clean energy transition.

• Digital & Data Connectivity:

• India’s role as a technology hub strengthens via subsea cable projects. Digital corridors can complement AI and fintech growth.

• India’s role as a technology hub strengthens via subsea cable projects.

• Digital corridors can complement AI and fintech growth.

• Strategic Leverage:

• Positions India as a central actor linking three geostrategic theatres — Asia, Middle East, and Europe. Counters China’s BRI by offering an alternative connectivity architecture.

• Positions India as a central actor linking three geostrategic theatres — Asia, Middle East, and Europe.

• Counters China’s BRI by offering an alternative connectivity architecture.

Opportunities for India:

• Expanded Market Access – IMEC enables faster, cheaper access to the EU, reducing reliance on the Suez Canal and boosting export competitiveness.

• Energy Transition Leadership – Green hydrogen pipelines allow India to become a clean energy supplier to Europe and Gulf partners.

• Digital Infrastructure Hub – The Blue Raman subsea cable positions India as the central node for Asia-Europe data connectivity.

• Supply Chain Diversification – Alternate routes reduce risks from Red Sea or Hormuz disruptions, attracting global manufacturing investments.

• Strategic Geopolitical Leverage – As IMEC’s eastern anchor, India gains influence in setting trade norms and countering China’s BRI.

Challenges:

• Geopolitical Instability:

• Israel’s war in Gaza has derailed regional normalisation efforts (e.g., Saudi-Israel rapprochement). Jordan-Israel relations at a significant low and Gulf states cautious on integration with Israel.

• Israel’s war in Gaza has derailed regional normalisation efforts (e.g., Saudi-Israel rapprochement).

• Jordan-Israel relations at a significant low and Gulf states cautious on integration with Israel.

• Economic Rivalries in the Gulf:

• Saudi-UAE competition for logistics hub dominance can delay alignment on IMEC’s operational design.

• Saudi-UAE competition for logistics hub dominance can delay alignment on IMEC’s operational design.

• Infrastructure Gaps:

• Cross-Saudi/UAE high-speed freight railway remains underdeveloped. Lack of corridor-wide tariff harmonisation, insurance mechanisms, and port capacity parity.

• Cross-Saudi/UAE high-speed freight railway remains underdeveloped.

• Lack of corridor-wide tariff harmonisation, insurance mechanisms, and port capacity parity.

• Security Risks:

• Expansion of regional conflicts (Yemen, Lebanon, Syria) could increase insurance premiums and discourage private investment.

• Expansion of regional conflicts (Yemen, Lebanon, Syria) could increase insurance premiums and discourage private investment.

Current Status:

• Eastern Leg: Strong potential due to India-Gulf partnerships; UPI adoption in UAE and Saudi enhances digital trade readiness.

• Western Leg: Uncertain until Middle East conflict de-escalates; implementation contingent on Palestinian issue resolution.

• August 2025 Delhi meeting of partner envoys focused on modalities and trade facilitation, not full-scale implementation.

Way Forward for India:

• Prioritise Eastern Leg Development: Strengthen maritime and rail linkages with Gulf partners independent of Israel leg.

• Enhance Energy Diplomacy: Fast-track green hydrogen cooperation with Gulf for exports to Europe.

• Invest in Digital Infrastructure: Lead in subsea cable networks and digital corridor architecture.

• Diversify Port Linkages: Explore multiple Indian and European terminal points to avoid bottlenecks.

• Diplomatic Balancing: Engage all stakeholders while maintaining neutrality on regional conflicts to safeguard corridor viability.

Conclusion:

The IMEC holds immense potential to transform trade, energy, and digital connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. However, its success hinges on regional stability and diplomatic consensus among all stakeholders. For India, strategic patience and focused development of the eastern leg could secure long-term gains despite current challenges.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025 GS Paper 3:

AI and the Restructuring of India’s Infotech Sector

Syllabus: Economy & Sci-Tech

Source: TH

Context: India’s IT sector is undergoing major restructuring as AI adoption accelerates, driving changes in business models, workforce strategies, and client services. Recent TCS moves, including hiring freezes and job cuts, reflect the industry’s shift towards AI-first, efficiency-driven operations.

About AI and the Restructuring of India’s Infotech Sector:

Drivers of the Shake-Up:

• Productivity Surge – AI tools for coding, debugging, and testing speed up software development, improving efficiency by over 30% and reducing delivery timelines.

• Shift in Business Models – Traditional manpower-heavy outsourcing is giving way to AI-driven, high-value, outcome-focused service delivery.

• Global Client Demands – International clients seek partners to modernise outdated systems, clean vast datasets, and comply with evolving AI regulations.

• Cost Optimisation Pressure – AI reduces operational costs by automating repetitive tasks, aligning with investor demands for better margins.

• Technology Maturity – Generative AI, low-code platforms, and automation are now stable, scalable, and ready for enterprise-level deployment.

Opportunities for Indian IT Firms:

• Global AI Adoption Partners – Indian firms can help global companies implement AI responsibly, ensuring compliance and seamless integration.

• Niche Specialisation – Targeting AI solutions for specific sectors like healthcare, defence, and climate science opens high-value markets.

• Data Governance Expertise – Building AI models that prioritise privacy, fairness, and security to meet global data protection laws.

• Innovation Hubs – Leveraging India’s STEM talent to create AI-driven intellectual property and commercial products.

• SME Advantage – Agile, AI-native small firms can deliver innovative solutions faster than large bureaucratic organisations.

Challenges in the AI Transition:

• Workforce Displacement – Routine coding, maintenance, and back-office roles risk automation, affecting mid-level IT jobs.

• Skill Shortage – There is a mismatch between demand for AI-skilled professionals and current workforce capabilities.

• Cultural Shift Resistance – Firms and employees may struggle to adapt from billable-hour models to IP-led value creation.

• Regulatory Compliance – Meeting international AI ethics, transparency, and data privacy standards adds operational complexity.

• Infrastructure Gaps – Limited high-performance computing and research facilities slow AI innovation and scalability.

Policy & Government Role:

• National AI Mission – Promotes AI research, infrastructure creation, and workforce skill development at a national scale.

• Digital India & Data Governance – Strengthens secure and responsible AI adoption through robust digital policies and privacy frameworks.

• Higher Education Reform – Integrates AI, ML, and ethics into academic curricula to prepare future-ready professionals.

• Incentives for AI Startups – Offers tax breaks, funding, and IP support to encourage deep-tech entrepreneurship.

• Global Tech Alliances – Builds strategic partnerships for AI research, product co-development, and international market entry.

Way Forward:

• AI Reskilling Programmes – Launch mass-scale training to upskill existing IT talent for AI-centric roles.

• Ethical AI Leadership – Establish India as a global hub for certifying responsible and fair AI practices.

• Encouraging IP Creation – Promote AI innovation through patent support for algorithms, applications, and platforms.

• Support AI Clusters – Develop specialised AI hubs in major and emerging tech cities to spur innovation.

• Client-Centric Transformation – Shift positioning from outsourced vendor to strategic AI solutions partner for global clients.

Conclusion:

AI is redefining India’s infotech sector, shifting from the “back office of the world” to an AI-first innovation economy. Agility, niche expertise, and ethical leadership will drive success, requiring a move from scale-driven services to value-driven solutions that make Indian IT indispensable for global AI adoption.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Defence Production in India FY 2024-25

Context: India’s annual defence production touched a record ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY 2024-25, marking an 18% growth over the previous year and a 90% jump since FY 2019-20, reflecting a stronger domestic defence industrial base.

About Defence Production in India FY 2024-25:

• What It Is?

• The process of manufacturing weapons, military systems, and defence equipment for India’s armed forces and export markets. Includes production by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance factories, other PSUs, and private sector companies.

• The process of manufacturing weapons, military systems, and defence equipment for India’s armed forces and export markets.

• Includes production by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance factories, other PSUs, and private sector companies.

• Trends:

• Record Output – ₹1,50,590 crore in FY 2024-25. Growth Pattern – 18% rise from FY 2023-24; 90% rise since FY 2019-20. Sectoral Share – DPSUs/PSUs: 77%; Private sector: 23% (up from 21% last year). Policy Drivers – Indigenisation push under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, ease of doing business reforms, higher private participation. Export Growth – Defence exports at ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, up 12% from previous year.

• Record Output – ₹1,50,590 crore in FY 2024-25.

• Growth Pattern – 18% rise from FY 2023-24; 90% rise since FY 2019-20.

• Sectoral Share – DPSUs/PSUs: 77%; Private sector: 23% (up from 21% last year).

• Policy Drivers – Indigenisation push under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, ease of doing business reforms, higher private participation.

• Export Growth – Defence exports at ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, up 12% from previous year.

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:

• GS Paper II – Government policies, industrial development, and role of public-private partnerships in strategic sectors.

• GS Paper III – Indian Economy: Indigenisation of technology, Make in India, self-reliance. Security: Defence modernisation, strategic manufacturing capabilities. Industry: Role of manufacturing sector in economic growth.

• Indian Economy: Indigenisation of technology, Make in India, self-reliance.

• Security: Defence modernisation, strategic manufacturing capabilities.

• Industry: Role of manufacturing sector in economic growth.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

India’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory

Source: PIB

Context: Union Minister inaugurated India’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), Hyderabad.

About India’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory:

• What It Is? A cutting-edge facility dedicated to preserving, researching, and utilising animal stem cells for regenerative medicine, disease modelling, and reproductive biotechnology in livestock.

• A cutting-edge facility dedicated to preserving, researching, and utilising animal stem cells for regenerative medicine, disease modelling, and reproductive biotechnology in livestock.

• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana

• Situated at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB)

• Situated at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB)

• Organisation Involved:

• National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) – under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Supported by National Biopharma Mission (NBM) of DBT–BIRAC

• National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) – under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

• Supported by National Biopharma Mission (NBM) of DBT–BIRAC

• Enhance veterinary health innovation through regenerative medicine and cellular therapies. Support One Health approach by linking human, animal, and environmental health. Strengthen India’s capacity in biotechnology-based agricultural productivity.

• Enhance veterinary health innovation through regenerative medicine and cellular therapies.

• Support One Health approach by linking human, animal, and environmental health.

• Strengthen India’s capacity in biotechnology-based agricultural productivity.

• Key Features:

• Advanced Infrastructure – Stem cell culture unit, 3D bioprinter, bacterial culture lab, cryostorage, autoclave rooms. Support Systems – Modern air handling units and uninterrupted power backup. Research Areas – Regenerative medicine for livestock Disease modelling for brucellosis, mastitis, and other diseases Tissue engineering & reproductive biotech Expansion Plans – Will store and manage stem cells & derivatives for long-term research and clinical use.

• Advanced Infrastructure – Stem cell culture unit, 3D bioprinter, bacterial culture lab, cryostorage, autoclave rooms.

• Support Systems – Modern air handling units and uninterrupted power backup.

• Research Areas – Regenerative medicine for livestock Disease modelling for brucellosis, mastitis, and other diseases Tissue engineering & reproductive biotech

• Regenerative medicine for livestock

• Disease modelling for brucellosis, mastitis, and other diseases

• Tissue engineering & reproductive biotech

• Expansion Plans – Will store and manage stem cells & derivatives for long-term research and clinical use.

• Significance:

• Boosts livestock productivity and farmer incomes. Supports Evergreen Revolution in animal husbandry. Strengthens India’s position as an early mover in biotechnology-led agriculture.

• Boosts livestock productivity and farmer incomes.

• Supports Evergreen Revolution in animal husbandry.

• Strengthens India’s position as an early mover in biotechnology-led agriculture.

Kakori Conspiracy Case

Source: DD News

Context: Prime Minister of India paid tribute to the revolutionaries of the Kakori incident on its 100th anniversary, honouring their courage and sacrifice in India’s freedom struggle.

About Kakori Train Robbery (Kakori Conspiracy Case):

• What It Is? A daring armed action carried out by members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) on 9 August 1925 to seize British government treasury funds from a train, aiming to fund the revolutionary movement and send a political message against colonial exploitation.

• A daring armed action carried out by members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) on 9 August 1925 to seize British government treasury funds from a train, aiming to fund the revolutionary movement and send a political message against colonial exploitation.

• Key Personalities Involved:

• Ram Prasad Bismil Ashfaqulla Khan Chandrashekhar Azad Rajendra Lahiri Roshan Singh Manmathnath Gupta

• Ram Prasad Bismil

• Ashfaqulla Khan

• Chandrashekhar Azad

• Rajendra Lahiri

• Roshan Singh

• Manmathnath Gupta

• Background:

• The HRA believed verbal protests and petitions were insufficient against British imperialism. Funding was urgently required for revolutionary activities. The target chosen was a train carrying government treasury money between Saharanpur and Lucknow.

• The HRA believed verbal protests and petitions were insufficient against British imperialism.

• Funding was urgently required for revolutionary activities.

• The target chosen was a train carrying government treasury money between Saharanpur and Lucknow.

• The Incident:

• Date: 9 August 1925 Location: Near Kakori railway station, Uttar Pradesh. Action: Revolutionaries stopped the 8-Down train and seized cash from the guard’s coach.

• Date: 9 August 1925

• Location: Near Kakori railway station, Uttar Pradesh.

• Action: Revolutionaries stopped the 8-Down train and seized cash from the guard’s coach.

• Outcome:

• Massive British crackdown followed.

• Arrests: Most participants caught within months.

• Sentences: Hanged (1927) – Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, Roshan Singh. Others received long-term imprisonment. Chandrashekhar Azad evaded capture and continued the struggle until 1931.

• Hanged (1927) – Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, Roshan Singh.

• Others received long-term imprisonment.

• Chandrashekhar Azad evaded capture and continued the struggle until 1931.

• Subsequent Developments (Later Phase):

• The HRA, weakened after the incident, reorganised in 1927–1928. Leaders like Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Shiv Verma infused socialist ideology into the movement. The organisation was renamed Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928, marking a shift towards a revolutionary socialist programme.

• The HRA, weakened after the incident, reorganised in 1927–1928.

• Leaders like Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Shiv Verma infused socialist ideology into the movement.

• The organisation was renamed Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928, marking a shift towards a revolutionary socialist programme.

PM E-Drive Subsidy Scheme

Source: BS

Context: The Central Government has extended the ₹10,900 crore PM E-Drive subsidy scheme by two years until 2027-28, as nearly half of its allocated funds remain unused. Subsidies for electric two- and three-wheelers will end on March 31, 2026.

About PM E-Drive Subsidy Scheme:

• What It Is? A national incentive programme to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption, manufacturing, and charging infrastructure, with a special focus on electric buses and heavy EVs.

• A national incentive programme to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption, manufacturing, and charging infrastructure, with a special focus on electric buses and heavy EVs.

• Launched In: 1 October 2024, replacing the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS-2024).

• Ministry: Ministry of Heavy Industries

• Period: Till March 31, 2028 or until funds are exhausted.

• Budget:

• ₹10,900 crore total outlay ₹3,679 crore – Demand incentives for EVs. ₹7,171 crore – E-buses, charging infra, and testing facilities.

• ₹10,900 crore total outlay ₹3,679 crore – Demand incentives for EVs. ₹7,171 crore – E-buses, charging infra, and testing facilities.

• ₹3,679 crore – Demand incentives for EVs.

• ₹7,171 crore – E-buses, charging infra, and testing facilities.

• Objective:

• Accelerate EV penetration in public transport and logistics. Reduce upfront cost of EVs for consumers. Strengthen charging network to address range anxiety. Support domestic manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.

• Accelerate EV penetration in public transport and logistics.

• Reduce upfront cost of EVs for consumers.

• Strengthen charging network to address range anxiety.

• Support domestic manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.

• Key Features:

• Demand Incentives: 2-wheelers: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹10,000/vehicle), halved in FY26. E-rickshaws & passenger/cargo e-autos: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹25,000–₹50,000), halved in FY26. Electric trucks (3.5–55 tonnes): ₹5,000/kWh or 10% of ex-factory price. Electric ambulances: ₹500 crore allocation, guidelines by 2026. Focus on E-Buses: Deployment in 9 cities with over 40 lakh population. Charging Infrastructure: 22,100 fast chargers for four-wheelers. 1,800 for buses. 48,400 for two- and three-wheelers. Backed by ₹2,000 crore funding. Testing Upgrades – Strengthening EV testing and certification facilities. Integration with EV Policy – Complements GST cuts, income tax benefits under Sec 80EEB, and PLI schemes for batteries and EV manufacturing.

• Demand Incentives: 2-wheelers: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹10,000/vehicle), halved in FY26. E-rickshaws & passenger/cargo e-autos: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹25,000–₹50,000), halved in FY26. Electric trucks (3.5–55 tonnes): ₹5,000/kWh or 10% of ex-factory price. Electric ambulances: ₹500 crore allocation, guidelines by 2026.

• 2-wheelers: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹10,000/vehicle), halved in FY26.

• E-rickshaws & passenger/cargo e-autos: ₹5,000/kWh in FY25 (max ₹25,000–₹50,000), halved in FY26.

• Electric trucks (3.5–55 tonnes): ₹5,000/kWh or 10% of ex-factory price.

• Electric ambulances: ₹500 crore allocation, guidelines by 2026.

• Focus on E-Buses: Deployment in 9 cities with over 40 lakh population.

• Charging Infrastructure: 22,100 fast chargers for four-wheelers. 1,800 for buses. 48,400 for two- and three-wheelers. Backed by ₹2,000 crore funding.

• 22,100 fast chargers for four-wheelers.

• 1,800 for buses.

• 48,400 for two- and three-wheelers.

• Backed by ₹2,000 crore funding.

• Testing Upgrades – Strengthening EV testing and certification facilities.

• Integration with EV Policy – Complements GST cuts, income tax benefits under Sec 80EEB, and PLI schemes for batteries and EV manufacturing.

• Coverage:

• Electric 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, trucks, ambulances, and buses. Charging infrastructure in urban areas and highways.

• Electric 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, trucks, ambulances, and buses.

• Charging infrastructure in urban areas and highways.

Khelo India ASMITA

Source: PIB

Context: The Khelo India ASMITA Football League 2025-26 was inaugurated in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, marking a major step towards affirmative action in sports to boost women’s participation.

About Khelo India ASMITA:

• What It Is? A dedicated affirmative action sports initiative under the Khelo India programme to increase women’s participation in sports, focusing on grassroots talent development, especially among underrepresented communities.

• A dedicated affirmative action sports initiative under the Khelo India programme to increase women’s participation in sports, focusing on grassroots talent development, especially among underrepresented communities.

• Launched In: 2025–26, with the inaugural football league in Jalgaon, Maharashtra.

• Ministry:

• Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), All India Football Federation (AIFF), and Western India Football Association (WIFA).

• Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports

• Supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), All India Football Federation (AIFF), and Western India Football Association (WIFA).

• Provide a dedicated platform for young girls to showcase and develop sporting skills. Address historical gender imbalances in sports participation. Foster social inclusion by engaging talent from tribal, rural, and minority backgrounds. Contribute to nation-building through women’s empowerment in sports.

• Provide a dedicated platform for young girls to showcase and develop sporting skills.

• Address historical gender imbalances in sports participation.

• Foster social inclusion by engaging talent from tribal, rural, and minority backgrounds.

• Contribute to nation-building through women’s empowerment in sports.

• Key Features:

• Target Group – Girls aged 13 and under, including first-time players and hidden talent. Affirmative Action – Special focus on marginalised communities to ensure inclusivity. Platform for Exposure – Competitive leagues to enhance visibility and scouting opportunities. Integration with Khelo Bharat Niti – Aligns with India’s long-term sports development and empowerment agenda. Institutional Support – Backed by national and state sports bodies for structured development. Breaking Stereotypes – Encourages girls to challenge societal norms and become role models.

• Target Group – Girls aged 13 and under, including first-time players and hidden talent.

• Affirmative Action – Special focus on marginalised communities to ensure inclusivity.

• Platform for Exposure – Competitive leagues to enhance visibility and scouting opportunities.

• Integration with Khelo Bharat Niti – Aligns with India’s long-term sports development and empowerment agenda.

• Institutional Support – Backed by national and state sports bodies for structured development.

• Breaking Stereotypes – Encourages girls to challenge societal norms and become role models.

Tritium

Source: TH

Context: A global ocean model study by the University of Tokyo and Fukushima University has confirmed that the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant’s tritium wastewater release poses negligible risk.

About Tritium:

• What It Is? Tritium (³H or T) – Radioactive isotope of hydrogen. Nucleus: 1 proton + 2 neutrons (heaviest bound isotope of hydrogen). Half-life:32 years.

• Tritium (³H or T) – Radioactive isotope of hydrogen.

• Nucleus: 1 proton + 2 neutrons (heaviest bound isotope of hydrogen).

• Half-life:32 years.

• Sources: Natural – Formed in the atmosphere by cosmic ray interactions. Artificial – Produced in nuclear reactors (lithium irradiation, fission byproduct).

• Natural – Formed in the atmosphere by cosmic ray interactions.

• Artificial – Produced in nuclear reactors (lithium irradiation, fission byproduct).

• Features: Emits low-energy beta radiation. Cannot penetrate human skin; harmful only if inhaled or ingested. Exists mostly as tritiated water (HTO) in the environment.

• Emits low-energy beta radiation.

• Cannot penetrate human skin; harmful only if inhaled or ingested.

• Exists mostly as tritiated water (HTO) in the environment.

• Harm: Low external hazard. Internal exposure can increase cancer risk in large doses. Dilution in oceans drastically reduces impact.

• Low external hazard.

• Internal exposure can increase cancer risk in large doses.

• Dilution in oceans drastically reduces impact.

About Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant:

• What It Is? A nuclear power facility in Ōkuma, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO).

• A nuclear power facility in Ōkuma, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO).

• History: Commissioned: 2011 Tōhoku earthquake & tsunami caused reactor meltdowns, hydrogen explosions, and radioactive leaks. Led to one of the worst nuclear accidents since Chernobyl (1986).

• Commissioned:

• 2011 Tōhoku earthquake & tsunami caused reactor meltdowns, hydrogen explosions, and radioactive leaks.

• Led to one of the worst nuclear accidents since Chernobyl (1986).

• Features: Multiple Reactors – Six boiling water reactors (BWRs). Containment Tanks – Store treated wastewater containing trace radionuclides. Tritium Management – Treated water released gradually into the Pacific after ALPS filtration removes other 30-Year Release Plan – Discharge at low concentrations, meeting safety standards.

• Multiple Reactors – Six boiling water reactors (BWRs).

• Containment Tanks – Store treated wastewater containing trace radionuclides.

• Tritium Management – Treated water released gradually into the Pacific after ALPS filtration removes other

• 30-Year Release Plan – Discharge at low concentrations, meeting safety standards.

16th Lion Population Estimation Report

Source: NDTV

Context: The 16th Lion Population Estimation report (2025) revealed that India’s Asiatic lion population has risen from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025.

About 16th Lion Population Estimation Report:

• What It Is?

• A periodic wildlife census that assesses the population, distribution, and demographic trends of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica).

• A periodic wildlife census that assesses the population, distribution, and demographic trends of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica).

• Conducted By: Gujarat Forest Department

• Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) under Project Lion.

• Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) under Project Lion.

• Key Estimations (2025):

• Total Population – 891 lions (rise of 32.2% from 2020). Adult Females – Increased from 260 to 330 (rise of 26.9%), enhancing reproductive potential. Satellite Populations – 497 lions across nine locations including Barda WLS, Jetpur, Babra-Jasdan. Corridor Records – First-time sighting of 22 lions in wildlife corridors. Regional Trends – Highest population: Amreli district – 82 adult males, 117 adult females, 79 cubs. Highest growth: Mitiyala WLS (rise of 100%), Bhavnagar Mainland (rise of 84%), South Eastern Coast (rise of 40%). Declines: Girnar WLS (loss of 4%), Bhavnagar Coast (loss of 12%).

• Total Population – 891 lions (rise of 32.2% from 2020).

• Adult Females – Increased from 260 to 330 (rise of 26.9%), enhancing reproductive potential.

• Satellite Populations – 497 lions across nine locations including Barda WLS, Jetpur, Babra-Jasdan.

• Corridor Records – First-time sighting of 22 lions in wildlife corridors.

• Regional Trends – Highest population: Amreli district – 82 adult males, 117 adult females, 79 cubs. Highest growth: Mitiyala WLS (rise of 100%), Bhavnagar Mainland (rise of 84%), South Eastern Coast (rise of 40%). Declines: Girnar WLS (loss of 4%), Bhavnagar Coast (loss of 12%).

• Highest population: Amreli district – 82 adult males, 117 adult females, 79 cubs.

• Highest growth: Mitiyala WLS (rise of 100%), Bhavnagar Mainland (rise of 84%), South Eastern Coast (rise of 40%).

• Declines: Girnar WLS (loss of 4%), Bhavnagar Coast (loss of 12%).

• Significance:

• Conservation Success – Population grew by 70.36% in the last decade, range expanded by nearly 60%. Ecological Importance – Asiatic lions are keystone species maintaining grassland and scrubland balance. Cultural Heritage – Sole surviving wild population in the world, confined to Saurashtra region of Gujarat.

• Conservation Success – Population grew by 70.36% in the last decade, range expanded by nearly 60%.

• Ecological Importance – Asiatic lions are keystone species maintaining grassland and scrubland balance.

• Cultural Heritage – Sole surviving wild population in the world, confined to Saurashtra region of Gujarat.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 11 August 2025 Mapping:

Bhagirathi River

Source: TOI

Context: A recent flash flood in Dharali, Uttarakhand altered the course of the Bhagirathi River, forcing the Kheer Gad tributary back to its old channel and significantly reshaping the river’s morphology, as confirmed by ISRO satellite imagery.

About Bhagirathi River:

• What It Is?

• A major Himalayan River and one of the two headstreams of the Ganga. Holds mythological significance in Hinduism as the river brought to earth by King Bhagiratha.

• A major Himalayan River and one of the two headstreams of the Ganga.

• Holds mythological significance in Hinduism as the river brought to earth by King Bhagiratha.

• Origin:

• Emerges from the Gaumukh glacier at an elevation of 3,892 m in Uttarakhand’s Gangotri region.

• Emerges from the Gaumukh glacier at an elevation of 3,892 m in Uttarakhand’s Gangotri region.

• States Flow Through:

• Uttarakhand (primary state) — flows through towns such as Gangotri, Harsil, Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Devprayag.

• Uttarakhand (primary state) — flows through towns such as Gangotri, Harsil, Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Devprayag.

• Tributaries:

• Kedar Ganga – at Gangotri. Jadh Ganga – at Bhaironghati. Kakora Gad, Jalandhari Gad, Siyan Gad – near Harsil and Jhala. Asi Ganga – near Uttarkashi. Bhilangna River – near Old Tehri (originates from Khatling Glacier).

• Kedar Ganga – at Gangotri.

• Jadh Ganga – at Bhaironghati.

• Kakora Gad, Jalandhari Gad, Siyan Gad – near Harsil and Jhala.

• Asi Ganga – near Uttarkashi.

• Bhilangna River – near Old Tehri (originates from Khatling Glacier).

• It Is Tributary Of: Joins Alaknanda River at Devprayag, after which the river is known as the Ganga.

• Key Features:

• Hydrological Significance – Although mythologically considered the Ganga’s source, hydrologically the Alaknanda has greater length and discharge. Cultural Importance – Sacred to Hindus and linked with legends from the Ramayana and Puranas. Dynamic Morphology – Prone to course changes due to landslides, floods, and high sediment load in the tectonically active Himalayas. Strategic Infrastructure – Tehri Dam built at the confluence with Bhilangna River. Environmental Sensitivity – Originates in an ecologically fragile zone, prone to glacial meltwater surges and flash floods.

• Hydrological Significance – Although mythologically considered the Ganga’s source, hydrologically the Alaknanda has greater length and discharge.

• Cultural Importance – Sacred to Hindus and linked with legends from the Ramayana and Puranas.

• Dynamic Morphology – Prone to course changes due to landslides, floods, and high sediment load in the tectonically active Himalayas.

• Strategic Infrastructure – Tehri Dam built at the confluence with Bhilangna River.

• Environmental Sensitivity – Originates in an ecologically fragile zone, prone to glacial meltwater surges and flash floods.

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