UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 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 – 15 July (2025)
• Abuse Of Free Speech Online
Abuse Of Free Speech Online
GS Paper 3:
• Centre’s Exemption Policy for Thermal Plants
Centre’s Exemption Policy for Thermal Plants
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• The Story of Tommy Garnett and Sierra Leone’s Green Legacy
The Story of Tommy Garnett and Sierra Leone’s Green Legacy
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Quantum Noise
Quantum Noise
• High-Speed Maglev Train
High-Speed Maglev Train
• Talisman Sabre 2025
Talisman Sabre 2025
• AH-64E Apache Helicopters
AH-64E Apache Helicopters
• Lok Sabha Digital Attendance
Lok Sabha Digital Attendance
• Machilipatnam
Machilipatnam
Mapping:
• Sierra Leone World Heritage
Sierra Leone World Heritage
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025
#### GS Paper 2:
Abuse Of Free Speech Online
Syllabus: Polity
Source: B&B
Context: The Supreme Court, while hearing two separate cases on social media content, raised concerns over the growing abuse of free speech online, urging citizens to exercise self-restraint and warning that State regulation might become inevitable.
About Abuse Of Free Speech Online:
• What is Free Speech?
• It refers to the right to express opinions without censorship or restraint. Includes verbal, written, artistic, symbolic, or digital expression.
• It refers to the right to express opinions without censorship or restraint.
• Includes verbal, written, artistic, symbolic, or digital expression.
• Constitutional Protection
• Guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution. Recognized as a cornerstone of democracy and freedom of the press (e.g. Romesh Thapar v. State of Madras).
• Guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
• Recognized as a cornerstone of democracy and freedom of the press (e.g. Romesh Thapar v. State of Madras).
• Reasonable Restrictions – Article 19(2)
• Imposed in interest of sovereignty, public order, decency, morality, defamation, contempt of court, etc. Restrictions must be reasonable and subject to judicial review (Shreya Singhal v. Union of India struck down Section 66A IT Act as vague and arbitrary).
• Imposed in interest of sovereignty, public order, decency, morality, defamation, contempt of court, etc.
• Restrictions must be reasonable and subject to judicial review (Shreya Singhal v. Union of India struck down Section 66A IT Act as vague and arbitrary).
Rise of Free Speech Abuse on Digital Platforms:
Growth of Social Media:
• India has over 800 million internet users, with X, Instagram, and Facebook witnessing high political content volume.
• Platforms have become tools for misinformation, hate speech, defamation, and cyberbullying.
Forms of Misuse:
• Objectionable Religious Posts: Posts that insult or mock deities and religious beliefs have led to multiple FIRs and communal tensions.
E.g. Wazahat Khan’s post triggered national outrage and legal actions across states.
• Defamatory Political Cartoons: Digital caricatures often cross the line between satire and slander, eroding public discourse.
E.g. Hemant Malviya’s cartoon on Prime Minister drew strong objections and legal scrutiny.
• Anonymity and Virality Over Public Interest: Many users create fake or anonymous profiles to post inflammatory or defamatory content.
Implications on Indian Democracy and Society:
• Polarisation & Hate Crimes: Online abuse fuels real-world communal tensions and vigilantism.
E.g. Hate speech on YouTube and X has been linked to offline violence.
• Judicial Burden: Rising number of FIRs and bail petitions adds pressure on the criminal justice system.
E.g. SC clubs multiple FIRs in Khan’s case.
• Threat to National Unity: Violates Fundamental Duties (Art. 51A) to uphold fraternity and integrity.
• Global Image Erosion: India’s commitment to freedom with responsibility under scrutiny in global digital rights rankings.
Supreme Court Observations and Key Cases
• Wazahat Khan Case (2025):
• Filed plea to club FIRs for offensive religious posts. Court: Citizens must value rights and not provoke religious divisions.
• Filed plea to club FIRs for offensive religious posts.
• Court: Citizens must value rights and not provoke religious divisions.
• Hemant Malviya Case (2025):
• Posted satirical cartoon of Prime minister & RSS workers. SC: Use of Article 19 must come with “self-regulation and discipline.”
• Posted satirical cartoon of Prime minister & RSS workers.
• SC: Use of Article 19 must come with “self-regulation and discipline.”
• Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015):
• Landmark judgment striking down Section 66A IT Act, defending digital speech while highlighting the risk of vague laws.
• Landmark judgment striking down Section 66A IT Act, defending digital speech while highlighting the risk of vague laws.
Way Ahead
• Digital Civility Code: Introduce voluntary citizen code of digital conduct to promote respectful dialogue.
• Algorithmic Accountability: Social media companies must audit content amplification models to reduce hate virality.
• Guidelines on Horizontal Application of Rights: Frame jurisprudence on how fundamental rights apply between private citizens, especially in digital spaces.
• Strengthen Legal Remedies: Update IT Act and CrPC to swiftly tackle fake news and hate, without compromising rights.
• Public Digital Literacy Campaigns: Focus on ethical online behaviour in schools, workplaces, and local governance systems.
Conclusion:
Freedom of speech is a sacred right under Article 19, but its misuse erodes democratic civility and public order. A balance between liberty and responsibility is the need of the hour. Citizens must self-regulate, or the State may be compelled to intervene—a situation undesirable in a liberal democracy.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025 GS Paper 3:
Centre’s Exemption Policy for Thermal Plants
Syllabus: Environment
Source: TH
Context: The Union Environment Ministry has exempted 78% of India’s thermal power plant units from installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems meant to reduce SO₂ emissions.
About Centre’s Exemption Policy for Thermal Plants:
What is It?
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) issued new norms based on a scientific advisory panel led by the Principal Scientific Adviser.
• The new framework classifies power plants into three categories based on location and pollution levels.
What are the Exemptions?
• Category A (11%): Located within 10 km of NCR or cities with >1 million population. Must install FGDs by December 30, 2027.
• Located within 10 km of NCR or cities with >1 million population.
• Must install FGDs by December 30, 2027.
• Category B (11%): Located near critically polluted areas (CPA) or non-attainment cities (NAC). FGD installation subject to expert review; deadline: December 2028.
• Located near critically polluted areas (CPA) or non-attainment cities (NAC).
• FGD installation subject to expert review; deadline: December 2028.
• Category C (78%): Located outside high-risk zones. Completely exempt from installing FGDs.
• Located outside high-risk zones.
• Completely exempt from installing FGDs.
What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) System?
• FGD is a pollution-control system used in coal-fired thermal plants to reduce sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions.
• It removes SO₂ by passing flue gases through a scrubber with limestone or chemical sorbents.
• SO₂ can otherwise form secondary PM2.5 and lead to acid rain, respiratory diseases, and ecosystem damage.
Why Are Anti-Pollution Systems Necessary?
• SO₂ → PM2.5 Formation: Studies show that coal combustion contributes ~15% of ambient PM2.5 in India (CEEW).
• Studies show that coal combustion contributes ~15% of ambient PM2.5 in India (CEEW).
• Health Impacts: SO₂ is linked to asthma, heart diseases, and childhood bronchitis (WHO).
• SO₂ is linked to asthma, heart diseases, and childhood bronchitis (WHO).
• Transboundary Pollution: Emissions from thermal plants travel over 200 km, affecting rural and urban areas alike.
• Emissions from thermal plants travel over 200 km, affecting rural and urban areas alike.
Concerns with the Exemptions:
• Rollback of Environmental Norms: The 2015 mandate to install FGDs is effectively diluted for the majority of units.
• Unfounded Scientific Claims: Critics argue SO₂’s contribution to PM2.5 is underestimated (Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air).
• Ignored Precautionary Principle: Even if current SO₂ levels are below norms, proactive pollution control is essential as energy demand grows.
• Health Cost vs. Capital Cost: ₹2.5 lakh crore for full FGD compliance may appear high, but public health costs and productivity losses are likely far greater.
Way Ahead
• Prioritise Most Polluted Zones: Ensure immediate FGD installation in all NCR, CPA, and NAC clusters without exception.
• Incentivise Retrofit Mechanisms: Offer subsidies or green loans to ease installation burden on power plants.
• Public Health Audit: Conduct health impact assessments near major thermal clusters to guide future policy.
• Strengthen Monitoring: Mandate real-time SO₂ monitoring and public disclosure for all thermal units.
• Push for Cleaner Alternatives: Promote renewable energy adoption to reduce dependence on coal-based power.
Conclusion:
The exemption of 78% of thermal power plants from installing FGDs marks a regressive shift in India’s pollution control pathway. While cost and feasibility concerns exist, public health and environmental protection must remain central to energy governance. A balanced, science-backed and health-first policy is the need of the hour.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
The Story of Tommy Garnett and Sierra Leone’s Green Legacy
Anecdote: In the shadow of Sierra Leone’s civil war, when forests burned and rifles echoed through once-sacred groves, a quiet voice chose to listen to the whisper of the trees. That voice belonged to Tommy Garnett, a man born in the rural Kono district in 1959, where forests were not just landscapes—but living memories. Years later, when his country staggered under the weight of war, disease, and loss, Garnett returned—not as a spectator, but as a guardian of green silence. In 1992, amid the rumblings of internal conflict, he founded the Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA). It was not merely an NGO—it was a lifeline thrown to a landscape under siege. One of his earliest missions was the revival of Tiwai Island, a 12 sq. km haven on the Moa River, once rich with primates, pygmy hippos, and forest elephants, now scarred by war and logging. But Garnett did something unusual. He did not bring conservation to the people—he brought the people into conservation. With eco-tourism models, community training, and promises of sustainable livelihood, he turned forest protection into a shared village dream. The result was transformational. Not only were endangered species protected, but over 2 million trees were planted in the years that followed. In 2025, that whisper became a global roar—when the Gola-Tiwai Complex, nurtured by his decades of effort, was declared Sierra Leone’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a country still healing from its past, this was more than a title. It was redemption. And Sierra Leone itself? A West African gem bordered by Guinea and Liberia, its mountains, rivers, and tropical forests stand as a reminder that even war cannot silence the resilience of nature—when people like Garnett choose to protect it.
Relevance in UPSC Exam:
• Essay Paper:
• Themes like “Environment and Development”, “Role of Individuals in Conservation”, and “Ethics and Sustainability” can draw directly from Tommy Garnett’s life and EFA’s success story.
• Themes like “Environment and Development”, “Role of Individuals in Conservation”, and “Ethics and Sustainability” can draw directly from Tommy Garnett’s life and EFA’s success story.
• GS Paper 2: Governance & International Relations
• Role of Civil Society & NGOs: EFA exemplifies how local engagement shapes long-term governance outcomes in environmental protection.
• Role of Civil Society & NGOs: EFA exemplifies how local engagement shapes long-term governance outcomes in environmental protection.
• GS Paper 3: Environment, Ecology, and Biodiversity
• Endangered Species and Tropical Ecology: Enriches biodiversity and wildlife-related answers.
• Endangered Species and Tropical Ecology: Enriches biodiversity and wildlife-related answers.
• GS Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
• Real-life Ethical Leadership: Tommy Garnett’s dedication during crisis—civil war, Ebola, and COVID-19—can be a model ethics case study.
• Real-life Ethical Leadership: Tommy Garnett’s dedication during crisis—civil war, Ebola, and COVID-19—can be a model ethics case study.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
Quantum Noise
Source: PIB
Context: Indian scientists from Raman Research Institute (RRI) have discovered that quantum noise, previously seen as destructive, can generate and revive entanglement in certain quantum systems.
About Quantum Noise:
• What is Quantum Noise? Quantum noise refers to random disturbances that affect quantum systems due to unavoidable interaction with the environment. It leads to decoherence, making entangled states unstable—posing a challenge for quantum computing.
• Quantum noise refers to random disturbances that affect quantum systems due to unavoidable interaction with the environment. It leads to decoherence, making entangled states unstable—posing a challenge for quantum computing.
• Origin and Nature of Quantum Noise:
• Quantum origin: Arises from Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle and quantum interactions with thermal or electromagnetic environments. Environment-induced: Happens when quantum systems are not perfectly isolated—causing errors or collapse of quantum states. Unavoidable: Even the most controlled quantum labs cannot eliminate all noise due to environmental interaction.
• Quantum origin: Arises from Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle and quantum interactions with thermal or electromagnetic environments.
• Environment-induced: Happens when quantum systems are not perfectly isolated—causing errors or collapse of quantum states.
• Unavoidable: Even the most controlled quantum labs cannot eliminate all noise due to environmental interaction.
• Features of Quantum Noise:
• Decoherence-inducing: Breaks the link between entangled particles, damaging quantum information. Random yet measurable: Often modelled through channels like amplitude damping, phase damping, and depolarizing noise. System-dependent behaviour: Different for intraparticle vs interparticle entanglement. Non-deterministic impact: May reduce, alter, or—surprisingly—generate entanglement under certain conditions.
• Decoherence-inducing: Breaks the link between entangled particles, damaging quantum information.
• Random yet measurable: Often modelled through channels like amplitude damping, phase damping, and depolarizing noise.
• System-dependent behaviour: Different for intraparticle vs interparticle entanglement.
• Non-deterministic impact: May reduce, alter, or—surprisingly—generate entanglement under certain conditions.
• Significance of This Discovery:
• Paradigm Shift: Redefines the role of noise from being a threat to becoming a constructive force in quantum systems. Improved Quantum Stability: Intraparticle entanglement shows greater resistance to decoherence—key for real-world quantum devices. Foundation for Quantum Tech: Enables progress in quantum communication, quantum cryptography, and quantum error correction. Cross-platform applications: Findings apply to photons, neutrons, trapped ions—not limited to a single quantum setup.
• Paradigm Shift: Redefines the role of noise from being a threat to becoming a constructive force in quantum systems.
• Improved Quantum Stability: Intraparticle entanglement shows greater resistance to decoherence—key for real-world quantum devices.
• Foundation for Quantum Tech: Enables progress in quantum communication, quantum cryptography, and quantum error correction.
• Cross-platform applications: Findings apply to photons, neutrons, trapped ions—not limited to a single quantum setup.
High-Speed Maglev Train
Source: LM
Context: China unveiled a new high-speed Maglev train that can cover 1,200 km (Beijing–Shanghai) in just 2.5 hours, outperforming even airplanes.
About High-Speed Maglev Train:
• What is a Maglev Train? Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) train is a wheel-less rail vehicle that levitates using magnetic force, eliminating friction and enabling high-speed, smooth transport.
• Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) train is a wheel-less rail vehicle that levitates using magnetic force, eliminating friction and enabling high-speed, smooth transport.
• Concept and Development:
• Inventors: Conceptualized by Robert Goddard and Emile Bachelet in the early 1900s. First Use: Commercially launched in 1984 in the UK and now operating in China, Japan, and South Korea.
• Inventors: Conceptualized by Robert Goddard and Emile Bachelet in the early 1900s.
• First Use: Commercially launched in 1984 in the UK and now operating in China, Japan, and South Korea.
• How Maglev Works?
• Magnetic Suspension: Opposing magnetic forces lift the train off the track (no wheel contact). Propulsion via Magnetic Coils: Alternating electric current in the guideway changes magnetic polarity to push or pull the train. Two Systems: EMS (Electromagnetic Suspension): Uses magnetic attraction. EDS (Electrodynamic Suspension): Uses magnetic repulsion with superconductors.
• Magnetic Suspension: Opposing magnetic forces lift the train off the track (no wheel contact).
• Propulsion via Magnetic Coils: Alternating electric current in the guideway changes magnetic polarity to push or pull the train.
• Two Systems: EMS (Electromagnetic Suspension): Uses magnetic attraction. EDS (Electrodynamic Suspension): Uses magnetic repulsion with superconductors.
• EMS (Electromagnetic Suspension): Uses magnetic attraction.
• EDS (Electrodynamic Suspension): Uses magnetic repulsion with superconductors.
• Key Features:
• Speed: Reaches up to 600 km/h and accelerates in just 7 seconds. Design: Sleek, aerodynamic nose inspired by kingfisher birds for low air resistance. Ride Quality: Frictionless, silent, and vibration-free. Safety: Highly stable with low derailment risk. Energy Efficiency: Consumes less operational energy than conventional railways.
• Speed: Reaches up to 600 km/h and accelerates in just 7 seconds.
• Design: Sleek, aerodynamic nose inspired by kingfisher birds for low air resistance.
• Ride Quality: Frictionless, silent, and vibration-free.
• Safety: Highly stable with low derailment risk.
• Energy Efficiency: Consumes less operational energy than conventional railways.
• Significance:
• Airport Alternative: Offers a greener and faster option for medium-distance routes. Boosts Innovation: Integrates superconductors and vacuum tubes for future hyperloop-type systems. Strategic Leverage: Strengthens China’s global edge in advanced transportation technologies.
• Airport Alternative: Offers a greener and faster option for medium-distance routes.
• Boosts Innovation: Integrates superconductors and vacuum tubes for future hyperloop-type systems.
• Strategic Leverage: Strengthens China’s global edge in advanced transportation technologies.
• Limitations:
• High Infrastructure Cost: Requires entirely new guideways incompatible with existing rail networks. Rare-Earth Dependence: Uses costly elements (e.g., Neodymium, Dysprosium) for high-powered magnets. Limited Network Reach: Mostly operates on short to medium stretches; not yet widespread.
• High Infrastructure Cost: Requires entirely new guideways incompatible with existing rail networks.
• Rare-Earth Dependence: Uses costly elements (e.g., Neodymium, Dysprosium) for high-powered magnets.
• Limited Network Reach: Mostly operates on short to medium stretches; not yet widespread.
Talisman Sabre 2025
Source: TH
Context: Australia began Talisman Sabre 2025, its largest-ever joint military exercise involving 19 countries and over 35,000 troops, including India.
About Talisman Sabre 2025:
• What is Exercise Talisman Sabre? Talisman Sabre is a biennial multinational joint military drill hosted by Australia in collaboration with the United States, aimed at enhancing interoperability and combat readiness among Indo-Pacific allies.
• Talisman Sabre is a biennial multinational joint military drill hosted by Australia in collaboration with the United States, aimed at enhancing interoperability and combat readiness among Indo-Pacific allies.
• Host Nations: Australia and the United States.
• Key Sites: Shoalwater Bay (Queensland), Papua New Guinea (first time), and multiple Defence & non-Defence areas across land, air, sea, space, and cyber domains.
• Participating Nations: 19 countries including:
• 19 countries including:
• QUAD Members: India, Japan, USA, Australia Other Allies: UK, France, Germany, Indonesia, South Korea, Singapore, Canada, Philippines, New Zealand, Thailand, Norway, Fiji, Netherlands, Tonga, Papua New Guinea
• QUAD Members: India, Japan, USA, Australia Other Allies: UK, France, Germany, Indonesia, South Korea, Singapore, Canada, Philippines, New Zealand, Thailand, Norway, Fiji, Netherlands, Tonga, Papua New Guinea
• QUAD Members: India, Japan, USA, Australia
• Other Allies: UK, France, Germany, Indonesia, South Korea, Singapore, Canada, Philippines, New Zealand, Thailand, Norway, Fiji, Netherlands, Tonga, Papua New Guinea
• Objectives:
• Enhance Multinational Cooperation: Strengthen coordination among allies and regional security partners. Test Operational Readiness: Validate response to complex, large-scale security scenarios. Project Strategic Deterrence: Signal military capability and resolve in the Indo-Pacific. Promote Strategic Balance: Reinforce collective deterrence amid growing Chinese assertiveness.
• Enhance Multinational Cooperation: Strengthen coordination among allies and regional security partners.
• Test Operational Readiness: Validate response to complex, large-scale security scenarios.
• Project Strategic Deterrence: Signal military capability and resolve in the Indo-Pacific.
• Promote Strategic Balance: Reinforce collective deterrence amid growing Chinese assertiveness.
• Key Features of TS25:
• Largest Edition: Over 35,000 troops, extensive assets, and advanced systems like HIMARS rockets. First Multinational Deployment in PNG: Expands beyond Australian territory. Live Fire Drills: Realistic combat simulations with blank and live ammunition. Multidomain Operations: Involves air combat, maritime patrol, amphibious landings, cyber defence. Safety & Environment Focus: Biosecurity checks, marine species protection, and risk management protocols
• Largest Edition: Over 35,000 troops, extensive assets, and advanced systems like HIMARS rockets.
• First Multinational Deployment in PNG: Expands beyond Australian territory.
• Live Fire Drills: Realistic combat simulations with blank and live ammunition.
• Multidomain Operations: Involves air combat, maritime patrol, amphibious landings, cyber defence.
• Safety & Environment Focus: Biosecurity checks, marine species protection, and risk management protocols
• Significance:
• Geostrategic Messaging: Reinforces Indo-Pacific partnerships against coercive tactics. India’s Role: Boosts India’s defence ties under the QUAD and Indo-Pacific vision. Regional Trust: Builds collective confidence and interdependence among democratic allies.
• Geostrategic Messaging: Reinforces Indo-Pacific partnerships against coercive tactics.
• India’s Role: Boosts India’s defence ties under the QUAD and Indo-Pacific vision.
• Regional Trust: Builds collective confidence and interdependence among democratic allies.
AH-64E Apache Helicopters
Source: NIE
Context: India is set to receive the first batch of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the US after a 15-month delay.
• The helicopters will be deployed at Jodhpur for border security operations
About AH-64E Apache Helicopters:
• What is AH-64E Apache Helicopter? The AH-64E Apache is a multi-role combat helicopter developed by Boeing, built for high-intensity warfare, especially in network-centric and multi-domain environments. It is one of the most advanced and lethal attack helicopters in the world.
• The AH-64E Apache is a multi-role combat helicopter developed by Boeing, built for high-intensity warfare, especially in network-centric and multi-domain environments. It is one of the most advanced and lethal attack helicopters in the world.
• Developed By:
• Manufacturer: Boeing, USA Inducted by US Army: Since 1984 (Apache AH-64A)
• Manufacturer: Boeing, USA
• Inducted by US Army: Since 1984 (Apache AH-64A)
• Key Features:
• Sensor-Driven Targeting: Equipped with Longbow radar, thermal imaging, and night vision; detects 256 targets, prioritises 16 threats in seconds. Advanced Weaponry: Armed with 30mm chain gun, 70mm rockets, and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for anti-Armor and precision strikes. All-Weather, All-Terrain Ready: Operates in day/night, low visibility, high-altitude and extreme weather conditions. Enhanced Survivability: Crash-resistant frame, Defensive Aids Suite, redundant systems, and IR suppression for better battlefield survivability. Extended Reach: Wing-mounted fuel tanks enable longer endurance and persistent presence in large conflict zones.
• Sensor-Driven Targeting: Equipped with Longbow radar, thermal imaging, and night vision; detects 256 targets, prioritises 16 threats in seconds.
• Advanced Weaponry: Armed with 30mm chain gun, 70mm rockets, and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for anti-Armor and precision strikes.
• All-Weather, All-Terrain Ready: Operates in day/night, low visibility, high-altitude and extreme weather conditions.
• Enhanced Survivability: Crash-resistant frame, Defensive Aids Suite, redundant systems, and IR suppression for better battlefield survivability.
• Extended Reach: Wing-mounted fuel tanks enable longer endurance and persistent presence in large conflict zones.
• Strategic Significance for India:
• Boost to Border Security: Enhances India’s strike capability along western borders with Pakistan. Modernisation of Army Aviation: Complements existing IAF Apache fleet and adds offensive capability to Army Aviation Corps. Interoperability with Allies: Ensures seamless coordination in joint operations with the US and other QUAD forces. High-Precision, Low-Collateral Warfare: Ideal for anti-armour missions, counter-terrorism, and close air support. Symbol of Strategic Defence Ties: Strengthens India-US military cooperation under foundational defence agreements.
• Boost to Border Security: Enhances India’s strike capability along western borders with Pakistan.
• Modernisation of Army Aviation: Complements existing IAF Apache fleet and adds offensive capability to Army Aviation Corps.
• Interoperability with Allies: Ensures seamless coordination in joint operations with the US and other QUAD forces.
• High-Precision, Low-Collateral Warfare: Ideal for anti-armour missions, counter-terrorism, and close air support.
• Symbol of Strategic Defence Ties: Strengthens India-US military cooperation under foundational defence agreements.
Lok Sabha Digital Attendance
Source: DH
Context: From the Monsoon Session starting July 21, Lok Sabha MPs will digitally mark attendance from their seats using the new Multimedia Device (MMD) system.
About Lok Sabha Digital Attendance:
• What is the New Attendance System? The system is a seat-based digital attendance mechanism introduced in Lok Sabha, enabling Members of Parliament (MPs) to register their presence directly through biometric or PIN verification via the Multimedia Device (MMD) installed at each seat.
• The system is a seat-based digital attendance mechanism introduced in Lok Sabha, enabling Members of Parliament (MPs) to register their presence directly through biometric or PIN verification via the Multimedia Device (MMD) installed at each seat.
• Developed By: Managed and implemented by the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
• How It Works? MMD Terminals at each MP’s seat allow attendance marking. MPs can use: Biometric thumb scan PIN-based login I-card tap (smart card) The system integrates with Parliament’s internal digital portal that also hosts agenda, documents, and division lists.
• MMD Terminals at each MP’s seat allow attendance marking.
• MPs can use: Biometric thumb scan PIN-based login I-card tap (smart card)
• Biometric thumb scan
• PIN-based login
• I-card tap (smart card)
• The system integrates with Parliament’s internal digital portal that also hosts agenda, documents, and division lists.
• Key Features: Paperless Process: Eliminates manual attendance registers. Real-Time Recording: Tracks and logs attendance instantly. Time-Saving: Reduces crowding in lobbies and cuts wait times. Integrated Terminal: The same device also accesses agenda papers and session details. Hybrid Flexibility: Manual register remains temporarily for transition ease.
• Paperless Process: Eliminates manual attendance registers.
• Real-Time Recording: Tracks and logs attendance instantly.
• Time-Saving: Reduces crowding in lobbies and cuts wait times.
• Integrated Terminal: The same device also accesses agenda papers and session details.
• Hybrid Flexibility: Manual register remains temporarily for transition ease.
• Significance: Improves Parliamentary Efficiency: Frees up time for actual legislative business. Boosts Transparency & Accountability: Helps track MP presence accurately—key for allowance disbursal and public record. Supports Digital Governance: Aligns with India’s Digital Parliament vision and Good Governance goals.
• Improves Parliamentary Efficiency: Frees up time for actual legislative business.
• Boosts Transparency & Accountability: Helps track MP presence accurately—key for allowance disbursal and public record.
• Supports Digital Governance: Aligns with India’s Digital Parliament vision and Good Governance goals.
Machilipatnam
Source: BL
Context: Nearly 48% of construction of the Machilipatnam Greenfield Port in Andhra Pradesh is complete, with operations set to begin by end of 2026.
• This revival links back to Machilipatnam’s ancient legacy as a thriving port city during the Satavahana and Golconda eras.
About Machilipatnam:
• What is Machilipatnam? Machilipatnam (historically known as Masulipatnam or Bandar) is a coastal city in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, located at the mouth of the River Krishna along the Bay of Bengal.
• Machilipatnam (historically known as Masulipatnam or Bandar) is a coastal city in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, located at the mouth of the River Krishna along the Bay of Bengal.
• Ancient History & Trade Heritage:
• Satavahana Era Port: Thrived as a maritime hub as early as the 1st century AD, under the Satavahana rule. Medieval Prominence: Flourished during Golconda Sultanate, famed for muslin and textile exports to Persia, Europe, and Southeast Asia. European Trade Posts: Dutch, British, and French established factories here in the 17th century.
• Satavahana Era Port: Thrived as a maritime hub as early as the 1st century AD, under the Satavahana rule.
• Medieval Prominence: Flourished during Golconda Sultanate, famed for muslin and textile exports to Persia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
• European Trade Posts: Dutch, British, and French established factories here in the 17th century.
• Decline of Masulipatnam:
• Policy Shift: Lost prominence in the 18th century when British colonial focus shifted to Madras (Chennai). Natural Siltation: The port also suffered due to coastal sedimentation and lack of modernisation post-independence.
• Policy Shift: Lost prominence in the 18th century when British colonial focus shifted to Madras (Chennai).
• Natural Siltation: The port also suffered due to coastal sedimentation and lack of modernisation post-independence.
• Strategic Importance in Modern Times:
• Greenfield Port Revival: Under construction at Manginapudi, with advanced engineering like tetrapods and breakwater protection. Capacity & Expansion: Phase-I with 4 berths, expandable to 16 and projected capacity 36 MTPA, can handle 80,000-tonne ships. Inland Connectivity: Telangana to build a dry port and freight corridor to connect with Machilipatnam. Export-Import Gateway: Expected to handle coal, cement, pharma, fertilisers, and container cargo. Economic Multiplier: Boost to employment, land value, and logistics infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh’s coastal corridor.
• Greenfield Port Revival: Under construction at Manginapudi, with advanced engineering like tetrapods and breakwater protection.
• Capacity & Expansion: Phase-I with 4 berths, expandable to 16 and projected capacity 36 MTPA, can handle 80,000-tonne ships.
• Inland Connectivity: Telangana to build a dry port and freight corridor to connect with Machilipatnam.
• Export-Import Gateway: Expected to handle coal, cement, pharma, fertilisers, and container cargo.
• Economic Multiplier: Boost to employment, land value, and logistics infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh’s coastal corridor.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 15 July 2025 Mapping:
Sierra Leone World Heritage
Source: TH
Context: Tiwai Island and Gola Rainforest in Sierra Leone have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the country’s first.
About Sierra Leone World Heritage Site:
• What is it? A natural heritage site comprising: Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP) Location: Situated in southern Sierra Leone, along the Moa River, near the Liberia border. Unique Features: Tiwai Island: Only 12 sq. km, yet hosts 11 species of primates, including endangered western chimpanzees, Diana monkeys, and king colobus monkeys. Acts as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism model in West Africa. Gola Rainforest: Largest tropical rainforest in Sierra Leone. Home to pygmy hippopotamuses, African forest elephants, and hundreds of bird and insect species. Key region for carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and genetic biodiversity.
• A natural heritage site comprising: Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP)
• Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP)
• Location: Situated in southern Sierra Leone, along the Moa River, near the Liberia border.
• Unique Features: Tiwai Island: Only 12 sq. km, yet hosts 11 species of primates, including endangered western chimpanzees, Diana monkeys, and king colobus monkeys. Acts as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism model in West Africa. Gola Rainforest: Largest tropical rainforest in Sierra Leone. Home to pygmy hippopotamuses, African forest elephants, and hundreds of bird and insect species. Key region for carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and genetic biodiversity.
• Tiwai Island: Only 12 sq. km, yet hosts 11 species of primates, including endangered western chimpanzees, Diana monkeys, and king colobus monkeys. Acts as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism model in West Africa.
• Only 12 sq. km, yet hosts 11 species of primates, including endangered western chimpanzees, Diana monkeys, and king colobus monkeys.
• Acts as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism model in West Africa.
• Gola Rainforest: Largest tropical rainforest in Sierra Leone. Home to pygmy hippopotamuses, African forest elephants, and hundreds of bird and insect species. Key region for carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and genetic biodiversity.
• Largest tropical rainforest in Sierra Leone.
• Home to pygmy hippopotamuses, African forest elephants, and hundreds of bird and insect species.
• Key region for carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and genetic biodiversity.
About Sierra Leone:
• Capital: Freetown, located on the Sierra Leone Peninsula, commands one of the world’s largest natural harbours.
• Neighbouring Countries: Guinea, Liberia, and Atlantic Ocean
• Key Geographical Features Rivers: Major rivers include Moa, Sewa, Mano, and Rokel. Rivers originate in Fouta Djallon highlands of Guinea and flow southwest. Mountains: Mount Bintimani (Loma Mansa) – Highest peak at 6,391 ft (1,948 m). Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, and Kambui Schists add to rugged terrain. Coastal & Inland Plains: Mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands. Tropical climate with high rainfall and Harmattan winds in dry season. Natural Resources: Rich in diamonds, gold, bauxite, and rutile. Agriculture and mining are primary occupations.
• Rivers: Major rivers include Moa, Sewa, Mano, and Rokel. Rivers originate in Fouta Djallon highlands of Guinea and flow southwest.
• Major rivers include Moa, Sewa, Mano, and Rokel.
• Rivers originate in Fouta Djallon highlands of Guinea and flow southwest.
• Mountains: Mount Bintimani (Loma Mansa) – Highest peak at 6,391 ft (1,948 m). Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, and Kambui Schists add to rugged terrain.
• Mount Bintimani (Loma Mansa) – Highest peak at 6,391 ft (1,948 m).
• Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, and Kambui Schists add to rugged terrain.
• Coastal & Inland Plains: Mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands. Tropical climate with high rainfall and Harmattan winds in dry season.
• Mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands.
• Tropical climate with high rainfall and Harmattan winds in dry season.
• Natural Resources: Rich in diamonds, gold, bauxite, and rutile. Agriculture and mining are primary occupations.
• Rich in diamonds, gold, bauxite, and rutile.
• Agriculture and mining are primary occupations.
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