UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 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 – 12 September (2025)
• India–Mauritius Special Economic Package
India–Mauritius Special Economic Package
GS Paper 3:
• Great Nicobar Island Project
Great Nicobar Island Project
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• India Targets 2028 for Swadeshi Solar Cells
India Targets 2028 for Swadeshi Solar Cells
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Samudra Pradakshina
Samudra Pradakshina
• AIDIS & SAS 2026–27: Key Household & Agriculture Surveys by NSO
AIDIS & SAS 2026–27: Key Household & Agriculture Surveys by NSO
• Acharya Vinoba Bhave
Acharya Vinoba Bhave
• Border Wing Home Guards (BWHGs)
Border Wing Home Guards (BWHGs)
• NASA Discovers Potential Biosignatures on Mars: Sapphire Canyon & Cheyava Falls
NASA Discovers Potential Biosignatures on Mars: Sapphire Canyon & Cheyava Falls
• Light-based computers (Optical computers)
Light-based computers (Optical computers)
Mapping:
• The Philippine Island of Pugad
The Philippine Island of Pugad
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025
#### GS Paper 2:
India–Mauritius Special Economic Package
Syllabus: International Relations
Source: ToI
Context: Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam visited Varanasi, where India announced a USD 680 million Special Economic Package covering health, infrastructure, maritime security, and education.
About India–Mauritius Special Economic Package:
Key Components of the Partnership
• Development & Economic Cooperation:
• USD 680 Million Package: Includes grants and line of credit for health, infrastructure, and maritime projects. Healthcare Support: Construction of New Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital, first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India, AYUSH Centre of Excellence. Education & Research: MoUs between IIT-Madras, IIPM-Bengaluru & University of Mauritius to promote innovation and skilling. Infrastructure: Development of Motorway M4, Ring Road Phase II, new ATC tower at SSR Airport, port equipment acquisition.
• USD 680 Million Package: Includes grants and line of credit for health, infrastructure, and maritime projects.
• Healthcare Support: Construction of New Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital, first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India, AYUSH Centre of Excellence.
• Education & Research: MoUs between IIT-Madras, IIPM-Bengaluru & University of Mauritius to promote innovation and skilling.
• Infrastructure: Development of Motorway M4, Ring Road Phase II, new ATC tower at SSR Airport, port equipment acquisition.
• Maritime & Strategic Cooperation:
• Port Development: Joint redevelopment of Port Louis to strengthen Mauritius as a regional maritime hub. Blue Economy & Surveillance: Cooperation on monitoring Chagos Marine Protected Area and hydrographic mapping of EEZ. Defence Support: Provision of helicopters, capacity-building, and joint security initiatives.
• Port Development: Joint redevelopment of Port Louis to strengthen Mauritius as a regional maritime hub.
• Blue Economy & Surveillance: Cooperation on monitoring Chagos Marine Protected Area and hydrographic mapping of EEZ.
• Defence Support: Provision of helicopters, capacity-building, and joint security initiatives.
• Cultural & Civilisational Ties:
• Over 68% of Mauritian population is of Indian origin, binding the nations through shared heritage. Symbolic gestures like hosting PM Ramgoolam in Varanasi and Ganga Aarti participation reaffirm spiritual connect.
• Over 68% of Mauritian population is of Indian origin, binding the nations through shared heritage.
• Symbolic gestures like hosting PM Ramgoolam in Varanasi and Ganga Aarti participation reaffirm spiritual connect.
Strategic Significance:
• Geopolitical Importance:
• Mauritius lies near critical sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean, making it vital for India’s maritime domain awareness and countering Chinese influence. Acts as a gateway to Africa and a trusted partner in forums like IORA, Commonwealth, and Indian Ocean Commission.
• Mauritius lies near critical sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean, making it vital for India’s maritime domain awareness and countering Chinese influence.
• Acts as a gateway to Africa and a trusted partner in forums like IORA, Commonwealth, and Indian Ocean Commission.
• Economic Gateway:
• Mauritius is a major investment route for FDI inflows to India due to bilateral taxation treaties. Port modernisation will boost India’s Sagarmala Project and regional trade connectivity.
• Mauritius is a major investment route for FDI inflows to India due to bilateral taxation treaties.
• Port modernisation will boost India’s Sagarmala Project and regional trade connectivity.
• Soft Power & Diaspora Diplomacy:
• Large Indian diaspora strengthens goodwill and ensures Mauritius remains India’s closest ally in the Indian Ocean. AYUSH cooperation and Mission Karmayogi training modules expand India’s soft power footprint.
• Large Indian diaspora strengthens goodwill and ensures Mauritius remains India’s closest ally in the Indian Ocean.
• AYUSH cooperation and Mission Karmayogi training modules expand India’s soft power footprint.
Challenges:
• Geopolitical Competition: China’s Belt and Road Initiative investments in the Indian Ocean (e.g., Hambantota) challenge India’s strategic outreach.
• Climate Vulnerability: Mauritius is prone to cyclones, sea-level rise, and coastal erosion, risking newly built infrastructure.
• Economic Fragility: Mauritius’ economy is tourism- and finance-heavy, vulnerable to global slowdowns and external shocks.
• Execution Delays: Past India-funded projects in island nations have faced slow implementation due to logistics and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
• Maritime Security Threats: Piracy, illegal fishing, and potential misuse of EEZ by hostile actors require constant vigilance and joint monitoring.
Way Forward:
• Strengthen Maritime Partnership: Expand joint EEZ surveillance, hydrographic mapping, and training for Mauritius Coast Guard under SAGAR.
• Build Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adopt cyclone-proof designs, renewable energy integration, and mangrove restoration for sustainability.
• Accelerate Project Delivery: Use digital monitoring dashboards, single-window clearances, and private sector participation to avoid delays.
• Economic Diversification: Collaborate in fintech, digital public infrastructure (UPI, RuPay), and green hydrogen to broaden economic base.
• Cultural & People Diplomacy: Expand scholarships, cultural exchanges, and tourism circuits (Varanasi–Mauritius connects) to deepen people-to-people ties.
Conclusion:
India–Mauritius relations are evolving from a traditional partnership to a comprehensive, future-ready strategic alliance. With health, education, infrastructure, and maritime cooperation forming the core, this partnership embodies the Neighbourhood First policy in action.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025 GS Paper 3:
Great Nicobar Island Project
- •Syllabus: Environment*
Source: TH
Context: Government of India has cleared the Great Nicobar Island Project, an integrated development plan of strategic and economic importance in the Indian Ocean Region.
About Great Nicobar Island Project:
What it is?
• A multi-component mega development project to transform Great Nicobar into a logistics, trade, and defence hub, improving India’s presence in the Indian Ocean.
• Planned with environmental safeguards and tribal welfare compliance under EIA Notification 2006 and Shompen Policy 2015 to ensure sustainability.
Key Components:
• International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT): With a capacity of 14.2 million TEU, it will reduce India’s reliance on Colombo/Singapore and position the island as a global shipping hub.
• Greenfield International Airport: Will improve air connectivity, promote tourism, and enable rapid deployment of troops and supplies in emergencies.
• 450 MVA Gas + Solar Power Plant: Ensures uninterrupted energy supply with a mix of conventional and renewable sources for sustainable growth.
• Integrated Township: A planned township over 16,610 hectares to provide housing, infrastructure, and modern amenities to residents and workers.
• Phased Development: Divided into three phases (2025–47) to spread investment, minimise ecological stress, and allow adaptive planning over two decades.
Strategic & Economic Significance:
• Strategic Location: Its proximity to Malacca Strait, a vital global shipping lane, enhances India’s ability to monitor trade routes and project naval power.
• Blue Economy Push: Supports Sagarmala and Maritime India Vision 2030 by making India a major transhipment and shipping hub in the Indo-Pacific.
• Defence Preparedness: Strengthens Andaman & Nicobar Command as India’s only tri-service command, ensuring rapid response to maritime threats.
• Trade Competitiveness: ICTT is expected to cut transhipment costs by $200–300 million annually, improving India’s export-import efficiency.
• Employment & Local Growth: Will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, enhance skill development, and boost eco-tourism-led livelihoods.
Challenges:
• Ecological Sensitivity: Diversion of 1.82% forest land risks impacting endemic flora, fauna, and nesting grounds of leatherback turtles.
• Tribal Welfare: Need to safeguard Shompen and Nicobarese PVTGs, ensuring no displacement and protecting cultural heritage.
• Disaster Risk: Nicobar lies in a high seismic zone; infrastructure must be tsunami- and cyclone-resilient (2004 tsunami killed 6,000+ people in A&N).
• Logistical Complexity: Remoteness raises costs of transport, manpower, and maintenance, requiring robust supply chain management.
• Global Scrutiny: Likely to face opposition from environmental groups and international watchdogs concerned about biodiversity and climate impact.
Way Forward:
• Strengthen EIA Monitoring: Use real-time satellite monitoring and third-party audits to ensure compliance with environmental safeguards.
• Community Participation: Engage PVTGs in planning, offer livelihood schemes through eco-tourism, mangrove restoration, and craft promotion.
• Green Infrastructure: Prioritise solar/wind energy mix, rainwater harvesting, and low-carbon building technologies to minimise emissions.
• Climate-Resilient Planning: Integrate early warning systems, cyclone shelters, and resilient construction to mitigate disaster risks.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with Quad, BIMSTEC, and SAGAR vision partners to leverage investments, logistics, and maritime security cooperation.
Conclusion:
The Great Nicobar Island Project is a balancing act of growth and conservation, combining national security, economic opportunity, and ecological stewardship. If implemented with strict compliance and local participation, it can become a model for sustainable island development and reinforce India’s role in the Indo-Pacific power matrix.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
India Targets 2028 for Swadeshi Solar Cells
Context: Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy announced that India aims to build a fully indigenous solar manufacturing ecosystem by 2028, covering modules, cells, wafers, and ingots.
About India Targets 2028 for Swadeshi Solar Cells:
• What it is?
• A national plan to achieve end-to-end domestic manufacturing of solar modules, cells, wafers, and ingots by 2028. Supported by MNRE, Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, GST cuts, and policy reforms to boost domestic value chain.
• A national plan to achieve end-to-end domestic manufacturing of solar modules, cells, wafers, and ingots by 2028.
• Supported by MNRE, Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, GST cuts, and policy reforms to boost domestic value chain.
• Objectives:
• Reduce Import Dependence: Minimise reliance on Chinese solar components, ensuring energy security. Make in India Push: Position India as a global solar manufacturing hub. Job Creation: Generate direct & indirect employment in manufacturing and supply chains. Attract Investment: Leverage Rs 24,000 crore PLI scheme and attract FDI in renewables.
• Reduce Import Dependence: Minimise reliance on Chinese solar components, ensuring energy security.
• Make in India Push: Position India as a global solar manufacturing hub.
• Job Creation: Generate direct & indirect employment in manufacturing and supply chains.
• Attract Investment: Leverage Rs 24,000 crore PLI scheme and attract FDI in renewables.
• Key Features:
• 100 GW Solar Module Capacity: Already achieved, with expansion to upstream components. PLI Scheme Impact: Rs 50,000 crore investment, 12,600+ direct jobs created. Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: 2 million households benefitted, 50% with zero bills. PM-KUSUM Scheme: 1.6 million solar pumps installed/solarised → saving 1.3 billion litres diesel annually. Policy Support: GST cut (12% → 5%), single-window clearances, and fast-track land allotment to ease project execution.
• 100 GW Solar Module Capacity: Already achieved, with expansion to upstream components.
• PLI Scheme Impact: Rs 50,000 crore investment, 12,600+ direct jobs created.
• Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: 2 million households benefitted, 50% with zero bills.
• PM-KUSUM Scheme: 1.6 million solar pumps installed/solarised → saving 1.3 billion litres diesel annually.
• Policy Support: GST cut (12% → 5%), single-window clearances, and fast-track land allotment to ease project execution.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS-III (Economy): Infrastructure – Energy, Investment Models, Manufacturing Policy – PLI scheme & Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• GS-III (Environment): Conservation, Pollution & Degradation – solar energy role in reducing carbon emissions.
• GS-II (Governance): Government Policies & Interventions – MNRE schemes (PM-KUSUM, Surya Ghar).
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
Samudra Pradakshina
Source: PIB
Context: Defence Minister of India virtually flagged off ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, the world’s first tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition, from the Gateway of India, Mumbai.
About Samudra Pradakshina:
• What it is? Samudra Pradakshina is India’s first-ever tri-service (Army, Navy, Air Force) all-women circumnavigation expedition. It involves sailing around the globe, crossing all longitudes and major oceans, meeting the World Sailing Speed Record Council’s norms for a true circumnavigation.
• Samudra Pradakshina is India’s first-ever tri-service (Army, Navy, Air Force) all-women circumnavigation expedition.
• It involves sailing around the globe, crossing all longitudes and major oceans, meeting the World Sailing Speed Record Council’s norms for a true circumnavigation.
• Historical Context:
• Builds on India’s rich circumnavigation legacy: Capt. Dilip Donde (2009–10) – first solo Indian circumnavigation. Cmde. Abhilash Tomy (2012–13) – first Indian non-stop circumnavigation. INSV Tarini – Navika Sagar Parikrama (2017–18) & Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (2024–25) by all-women Indian Navy teams. Inspired by global pioneers like Sir Robin Knox-Johnston (1969).
• Builds on India’s rich circumnavigation legacy: Capt. Dilip Donde (2009–10) – first solo Indian circumnavigation. Cmde. Abhilash Tomy (2012–13) – first Indian non-stop circumnavigation. INSV Tarini – Navika Sagar Parikrama (2017–18) & Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (2024–25) by all-women Indian Navy teams.
• Capt. Dilip Donde (2009–10) – first solo Indian circumnavigation.
• Cmde. Abhilash Tomy (2012–13) – first Indian non-stop circumnavigation.
• INSV Tarini – Navika Sagar Parikrama (2017–18) & Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (2024–25) by all-women Indian Navy teams.
• Inspired by global pioneers like Sir Robin Knox-Johnston (1969).
• Aims & Objectives:
• Symbol of Nari Shakti: Showcase courage, resilience, and leadership of women in uniform. Promote Jointness: Strengthen synergy among Army, Navy, and Air Force. Diplomatic Outreach: Use port calls as platforms for military diplomacy & cultural exchange. Scientific Research: Collaborate with NIO to study micro-plastics, ocean biodiversity, and marine health.
• Symbol of Nari Shakti: Showcase courage, resilience, and leadership of women in uniform.
• Promote Jointness: Strengthen synergy among Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• Diplomatic Outreach: Use port calls as platforms for military diplomacy & cultural exchange.
• Scientific Research: Collaborate with NIO to study micro-plastics, ocean biodiversity, and marine health.
• Key Features:
• Vessel: IASV Triveni, a 50-foot indigenous yacht (Class A) built in Puducherry. Route: ~26,000 nautical miles, easterly route, crossing Equator twice, rounding Capes Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope. Crew: 10 women officers, led by Lt Col Anuja Varudkar (Army) & Sqn Ldr Shraddha P Raju (IAF). Timeline: Sept 2025 – May 2026.
• Vessel: IASV Triveni, a 50-foot indigenous yacht (Class A) built in Puducherry.
• Route: ~26,000 nautical miles, easterly route, crossing Equator twice, rounding Capes Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope.
• Crew: 10 women officers, led by Lt Col Anuja Varudkar (Army) & Sqn Ldr Shraddha P Raju (IAF).
• Timeline: Sept 2025 – May 2026.
• Significance:
• Women Empowerment: First global tri-service women-led expedition → milestone for gender inclusion in armed forces. Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Showcases Indian shipbuilding and seamanship capabilities. Strategic Messaging: Demonstrates India’s maritime ambition & global engagement.
• Women Empowerment: First global tri-service women-led expedition → milestone for gender inclusion in armed forces.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Showcases Indian shipbuilding and seamanship capabilities.
• Strategic Messaging: Demonstrates India’s maritime ambition & global engagement.
AIDIS & SAS 2026–27: Key Household & Agriculture Surveys by NSO
Source: TH
Context: NSO (MoSPI) announced that AIDIS and SAS of Agricultural Households will be conducted between July 2026 – June 2027.
About All India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS):
• What it is?
• India’s flagship survey on household finance, covering debt, assets, and investments across rural and urban households.
• India’s flagship survey on household finance, covering debt, assets, and investments across rural and urban households.
• Origin & Publisher:
• Originated as All India Rural Credit Survey (1951-52). Expanded in 1961-62 to include investment and urban sector. Conducted by National Statistics Office (NSO), MoSPI.
• Originated as All India Rural Credit Survey (1951-52).
• Expanded in 1961-62 to include investment and urban sector.
• Conducted by National Statistics Office (NSO), MoSPI.
• Aim / Objectives:
• Capture extent and nature of household indebtedness. Measure asset ownership and distribution to inform national accounts. Provide input to RBI, MoSPI, NITI Aayog for credit policy, financial inclusion, and inequality studies.
• Capture extent and nature of household indebtedness.
• Measure asset ownership and distribution to inform national accounts.
• Provide input to RBI, MoSPI, NITI Aayog for credit policy, financial inclusion, and inequality studies.
• Key Features
• Decadal Survey: Last conducted in 77th Round (2019) on RBI request. Covers Rural & Urban Areas: Includes institutional and non-institutional credit sources. Provides Disaggregated Data: By state, sector, income group, and asset class. Supports Policy: Used for framing schemes on financial literacy, credit penetration, and asset creation.
• Decadal Survey: Last conducted in 77th Round (2019) on RBI request.
• Covers Rural & Urban Areas: Includes institutional and non-institutional credit sources.
• Provides Disaggregated Data: By state, sector, income group, and asset class.
• Supports Policy: Used for framing schemes on financial literacy, credit penetration, and asset creation.
About Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households:
• What it is?
• A nationally representative survey to evaluate economic well-being of farmers and their households.
• A nationally representative survey to evaluate economic well-being of farmers and their households.
• Origin & Publisher:
• First launched in 2003 as part of NSS rounds. Expanded in 2013 and strengthened in 2019 round. Conducted by NSO (MoSPI) in coordination with Ministry of Agriculture.
• First launched in 2003 as part of NSS rounds.
• Expanded in 2013 and strengthened in 2019 round.
• Conducted by NSO (MoSPI) in coordination with Ministry of Agriculture.
• Aim / Objectives:
• Assess income, expenditure, and debt profile of farm households. Track livelihood patterns, crop & livestock production, access to government schemes & crop insurance. Inform agriculture & rural development policies for inclusive growth.
• Assess income, expenditure, and debt profile of farm households.
• Track livelihood patterns, crop & livestock production, access to government schemes & crop insurance.
• Inform agriculture & rural development policies for inclusive growth.
• Key Features:
• Covers All Agricultural Households: Including landless engaged in farming. Collects data on land & livestock ownership, technology adoption, and market access. Monitors Credit Access: Institutional finance, crop loans, and insurance coverage. Used by NITI Aayog, MoA&FW, research bodies, banks for policy design.
• Covers All Agricultural Households: Including landless engaged in farming.
• Collects data on land & livestock ownership, technology adoption, and market access.
• Monitors Credit Access: Institutional finance, crop loans, and insurance coverage.
• Used by NITI Aayog, MoA&FW, research bodies, banks for policy design.
Acharya Vinoba Bhave
Source: PM India
Context: Prime Minister of India paid homage to Acharya Vinoba Bhave on his birth anniversary (11 September 2025).
About Acharya Vinoba Bhave:
• Who He Was?
• Revered as National Teacher of India and spiritual successor of Mahatma Gandhi. Eminent philosopher, reformer, linguist, and advocate of Sarvodaya (welfare of all). Known as the leader who gave India the Bhoodan (Land-Gift) Movement.
• Revered as National Teacher of India and spiritual successor of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Eminent philosopher, reformer, linguist, and advocate of Sarvodaya (welfare of all).
• Known as the leader who gave India the Bhoodan (Land-Gift) Movement.
• Birth & Early Life:
• Born on 11 September 1895 at Gagode village, Maharashtra. Deeply spiritual since childhood, drawn to Bhagavad Gita and ascetic life. After reading Gandhi’s speech at BHU, abandoned formal education, met Gandhi at Kochrab Ashram in 1916, and joined his ashram activities.
• Born on 11 September 1895 at Gagode village, Maharashtra.
• Deeply spiritual since childhood, drawn to Bhagavad Gita and ascetic life.
• After reading Gandhi’s speech at BHU, abandoned formal education, met Gandhi at Kochrab Ashram in 1916, and joined his ashram activities.
• Contribution to Freedom Movement:
• Became first Individual Satyagrahi in 1940 at Gandhi’s request, symbolizing truth-force at personal level. Actively involved in Quit India Movement (1942) and Gandhian constructive programmes (Khadi, Nai Talim, village industries). Lived at Sabarmati Ashram in “Vinoba Kutir” and delivered Talks on the Gita, later published and translated widely.
• Became first Individual Satyagrahi in 1940 at Gandhi’s request, symbolizing truth-force at personal level.
• Actively involved in Quit India Movement (1942) and Gandhian constructive programmes (Khadi, Nai Talim, village industries).
• Lived at Sabarmati Ashram in “Vinoba Kutir” and delivered Talks on the Gita, later published and translated widely.
• Social & Spiritual Contributions:
• Bhoodan Movement (1951): Collected over 4 million acres of land from landlords and distributed to landless farmers. Gramdan (1954): Extended idea to donation of entire villages for community ownership. Promoted non-violence, self-reliance, sanitation, and rural upliftment. A polyglot and prolific writer, translated Bhagavad Gita into Marathi (Geetai) and commented on Bible, Quran, and Dnyaneshwari.
• Bhoodan Movement (1951): Collected over 4 million acres of land from landlords and distributed to landless farmers.
• Gramdan (1954): Extended idea to donation of entire villages for community ownership.
• Promoted non-violence, self-reliance, sanitation, and rural upliftment.
• A polyglot and prolific writer, translated Bhagavad Gita into Marathi (Geetai) and commented on Bible, Quran, and Dnyaneshwari.
• Importance & Legacy:
• Bridged gap between spirituality and socio-economic reform. Inspired land reforms, rural reconstruction, and trusteeship concept in economy.
• Bridged gap between spirituality and socio-economic reform.
• Inspired land reforms, rural reconstruction, and trusteeship concept in economy.
Border Wing Home Guards (BWHGs)
Source: TH
Context: MHA is considering raising Border Wing Home Guards (BWHGs) along the China border, on the lines of their deployment along the India–Pakistan border.
About Border Wing Home Guards (BWHGs):
• What it is?
• A voluntary auxiliary force drawn from local civilian population living in border areas. Acts as support to Army and border guarding forces during emergencies, conflict, and intelligence operations.
• A voluntary auxiliary force drawn from local civilian population living in border areas.
• Acts as support to Army and border guarding forces during emergencies, conflict, and intelligence operations.
• Origin & Ministry Involved:
• Raised under the Home Guards Act, 1962. Comes under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), coordinated with State Governments. Seven States authorised: Meghalaya, Tripura, Assam, West Bengal, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat (currently operational only in Rajasthan).
• Raised under the Home Guards Act, 1962.
• Comes under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), coordinated with State Governments.
• Seven States authorised: Meghalaya, Tripura, Assam, West Bengal, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat (currently operational only in Rajasthan).
• Aim / Objectives:
• Supplement regular forces by relaying information, aiding patrolling, and maintaining law and order. Mobilise border population for security and community vigilance. Support disaster response and logistical tasks during crises.
• Supplement regular forces by relaying information, aiding patrolling, and maintaining law and order.
• Mobilise border population for security and community vigilance.
• Support disaster response and logistical tasks during crises.
• Key Features:
• Voluntary Force: Members enlisted for 3–4 years. Pay & Training: 25% cost borne by Centre; daily pay ₹800–900, comparable to constable salary. Strength: 2,279 active in Rajasthan (2025). Played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor, proving effective in ground-level intelligence and communication.
• Voluntary Force: Members enlisted for 3–4 years.
• Pay & Training: 25% cost borne by Centre; daily pay ₹800–900, comparable to constable salary.
• Strength: 2,279 active in Rajasthan (2025).
• Played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor, proving effective in ground-level intelligence and communication.
• Significance:
• Force Multiplier: Augments Army & ITBP presence across the 3,488-km LAC. Community Integration: Builds trust with locals and acts as bridge between villagers & security agencies. Cost-Effective: Uses local manpower with minimal infrastructure burden.
• Force Multiplier: Augments Army & ITBP presence across the 3,488-km LAC.
• Community Integration: Builds trust with locals and acts as bridge between villagers & security agencies.
• Cost-Effective: Uses local manpower with minimal infrastructure burden.
NASA Discovers Potential Biosignatures on Mars: Sapphire Canyon & Cheyava Falls
Source: IE
Context: NASA’s Perseverance rover has detected the strongest potential biosignatures yet on Mars, in a rock sample nicknamed Cheyava Falls from the Sapphire Canyon region.
About Sapphire Canyon:
• What it is? A rocky outcrop on the edges of Neretva Vallis River valley, near Jezero Crater on Mars. Named “Sapphire Canyon” by Perseverance science team; contains the Cheyava Falls
• A rocky outcrop on the edges of Neretva Vallis River valley, near Jezero Crater on Mars.
• Named “Sapphire Canyon” by Perseverance science team; contains the Cheyava Falls
• Found In: Discovered and drilled by NASA’s Perseverance rover in July 2024. Sample stored in sealed tube for eventual return to Earth.
• Discovered and drilled by NASA’s Perseverance rover in July 2024.
• Sample stored in sealed tube for eventual return to Earth.
About Cheyava Falls Rock Characteristics:
• Contains clay, silt, organic carbon, sulphur, iron oxides, and phosphate – ideal for preserving ancient microbial life.
• Shows unique black mottling (‘poppy seeds’) and leopard-spot textures, possible result of water-rock chemical reactions.
• White calcium sulfate veins indicate past water flow.
• SHERLOC & PIXL instruments detected organic matter and phosphate, key building blocks of life.
About Biosignatures:
• What it is? A biosignature is any object, chemical, or structure that may have biological origin — formed or influenced by living organisms.
• A biosignature is any object, chemical, or structure that may have biological origin — formed or influenced by living organisms.
• Discovery on Mars: Perseverance’s SHERLOC instrument detected organic carbon compounds and electron-transfer reaction markers. Combination of minerals and structures suggests possible microbial metabolism in ancient lake sediments.
• Perseverance’s SHERLOC instrument detected organic carbon compounds and electron-transfer reaction markers.
• Combination of minerals and structures suggests possible microbial metabolism in ancient lake sediments.
• Significance: Closest evidence yet of past life beyond Earth. Strengthens case for Mars Sample Return Mission, which can confirm biological vs. abiotic origins.
• Closest evidence yet of past life beyond Earth.
• Strengthens case for Mars Sample Return Mission, which can confirm biological vs. abiotic origins.
Light-based computers (Optical computers)
Source: TH
Context: Researchers from Tampere University (Finland) and Université Marie et Louis Pasteur (France) found that intense light pulses in optical fibres can perform AI tasks faster and with lower energy use than conventional computers.
About Light-based computers (Optical computers):
• What It Is?
• Light-based computers, or optical computers, use photons (light particles) instead of electrons to process information. They promise ultra-fast, energy-efficient, and high-bandwidth computing – ideal for AI and big data tasks.
• Light-based computers, or optical computers, use photons (light particles) instead of electrons to process information.
• They promise ultra-fast, energy-efficient, and high-bandwidth computing – ideal for AI and big data tasks.
• Discovered by: Recent breakthrough credited to Tampere University and Université Marie et Louis Pasteur teams who demonstrated AI image recognition using light through glass fibres.
• How It Works:
• Step 1: Convert data (like an image) into a light pulse. Step 2: Send this pulse through an optical fibre, where light behaves in a unique way (non-linear response). Step 3: The light’s changes (colour spectrum or “fingerprint”) carry the transformed data. Step 4: This transformed light data is decoded to produce the result — e.g., identify a number in an image.
• Step 1: Convert data (like an image) into a light pulse.
• Step 2: Send this pulse through an optical fibre, where light behaves in a unique way (non-linear response).
• Step 3: The light’s changes (colour spectrum or “fingerprint”) carry the transformed data.
• Step 4: This transformed light data is decoded to produce the result — e.g., identify a number in an image.
• Key Characteristics:
• Speed: Light travels faster than electricity — enabling near-instant calculations. Efficiency: Generates less heat, saving power compared to silicon chips. Parallel Processing: Can handle multiple data streams at once (different light colours = different signals). Accuracy: Achieved over 91–93% image recognition success in experiments. Scalability: Works best when fibre length and light strength are optimised.
• Speed: Light travels faster than electricity — enabling near-instant calculations.
• Efficiency: Generates less heat, saving power compared to silicon chips.
• Parallel Processing: Can handle multiple data streams at once (different light colours = different signals).
• Accuracy: Achieved over 91–93% image recognition success in experiments.
• Scalability: Works best when fibre length and light strength are optimised.
• Applications:
• AI & Machine Learning: Faster training of neural networks, real-time image recognition. Supercomputing: Energy-efficient data centres for climate modelling, genomics, weather forecasts. Telecom & Internet: Boosts fibre-optic data processing, reducing latency. Defence & Space: High-speed data analysis for surveillance, satellite imaging.
• AI & Machine Learning: Faster training of neural networks, real-time image recognition.
• Supercomputing: Energy-efficient data centres for climate modelling, genomics, weather forecasts.
• Telecom & Internet: Boosts fibre-optic data processing, reducing latency.
• Defence & Space: High-speed data analysis for surveillance, satellite imaging.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12 September 2025 Mapping:
The Philippine Island of Pugad
Source: TH
Context: The Philippine Island of Pugad is facing severe land subsidence (up to 11 cm/year) and rising sea levels, putting its 2,500 residents at risk of displacement.
• Scientists warn that parts of Bulacan province could sink completely, as sea levels in the Philippines are rising three times faster than the global average.
About Philippine Island of Pugad:
• What it is?
• A small, 7-hectare island in Manila Bay, part of Hagonoy municipality in Bulacan province. Densely populated, with ~2,500 residents, primarily engaged in fishing & aquaculture.
• A small, 7-hectare island in Manila Bay, part of Hagonoy municipality in Bulacan province.
• Densely populated, with ~2,500 residents, primarily engaged in fishing & aquaculture.
• Location:
• Lies at the mouth of the Angat–Pampanga River Delta, historically surrounded by mangroves and marshlands.
• Lies at the mouth of the Angat–Pampanga River Delta, historically surrounded by mangroves and marshlands.
• Issues & Challenges:
• Land Subsidence: Sinking at ~11 cm/year, fastest in the Philippines due to groundwater over-extraction. Sea-Level Rise: Philippines’ sea level rise is 3× global average (3.6 mm/yr); may accelerate to 13 mm/yr. Climate Hazards: Frequent floods, typhoons, and storm surges disrupt lives & livelihoods. Loss of Mangroves: Conversion to fishponds reduced natural protection, increasing vulnerability
• Land Subsidence: Sinking at ~11 cm/year, fastest in the Philippines due to groundwater over-extraction.
• Sea-Level Rise: Philippines’ sea level rise is 3× global average (3.6 mm/yr); may accelerate to 13 mm/yr.
• Climate Hazards: Frequent floods, typhoons, and storm surges disrupt lives & livelihoods.
• Loss of Mangroves: Conversion to fishponds reduced natural protection, increasing vulnerability
About Philippines:
• What it is?
• A Southeast Asian archipelago nation comprising 7,000+ islands in the western Pacific Ocean.
• A Southeast Asian archipelago nation comprising 7,000+ islands in the western Pacific Ocean.
• Location & Neighbours:
• Situated about 800 km east of Vietnam, bounded by Philippine Sea (east), South China Sea (west), and Celebes Sea (south).
• Situated about 800 km east of Vietnam, bounded by Philippine Sea (east), South China Sea (west), and Celebes Sea (south).
• Capital: Manila (Quezon City is most populous).
• Features:
• Coastline: 22,550 miles (36,290 km) → highly vulnerable to climate change. Mountains & Volcanoes: ~50 volcanoes (active & dormant), Mount Apo is the highest (2,954 m). Climate: Tropical, prone to typhoons, floods, earthquakes & volcanic eruptions.
• Coastline: 22,550 miles (36,290 km) → highly vulnerable to climate change.
• Mountains & Volcanoes: ~50 volcanoes (active & dormant), Mount Apo is the highest (2,954 m).
• Climate: Tropical, prone to typhoons, floods, earthquakes & volcanic eruptions.
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