UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June (2025)
• Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal Report
Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal Report
GS Paper 3:
• Restricting AC Temperature: A Climate-Smart and Health-Safe Cooling Strategy
Restricting AC Temperature: A Climate-Smart and Health-Safe Cooling Strategy
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Grief Across the Ethnic Divide in Manipur
Grief Across the Ethnic Divide in Manipur
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• DNA Identification Techniques
DNA Identification Techniques
• A New Species of Jumping Spider
A New Species of Jumping Spider
• Relaxed Key Provisions of the SEZ Rules, 2006
Relaxed Key Provisions of the SEZ Rules, 2006
• Policy Reforms to Boost the Ease of Doing Research
Policy Reforms to Boost the Ease of Doing Research
• Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy (SPArc Therapy)
Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy (SPArc Therapy)
• Operation True Promise 3
Operation True Promise 3
• Nice Ocean Action Plan
Nice Ocean Action Plan
Mapping:
• Cyprus
Cyprus
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025
#### GS Paper 2:
Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal Report
Syllabus: Governance
Source:
Context: The Government of India released a comprehensive report titled “Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal: Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan ke 11 Saal”, marking 11 years of governance under PM Narendra Modi.
About Summary of Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal Report:
• Serving the Poor and Marginalized: Theme: Inclusive development through Antyodaya — ensuring 100% welfare coverage and irreversible empowerment. Key Data Points: 81 crores received free foodgrains under PMGKY. 5+ crore MUDRA loans disbursed and >50% to SC/ST/OBC. 15 crore households connected via Jal Jeevan Mission. 4 crore houses completed under PM Awas Yojana. Initiatives Taken: PMGKY, MUDRA, Stand-Up India, Namaste Scheme, Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, Aspirational Districts Programme. Achievements: India ended extreme poverty (IMF) and MPI indicators improved (UNDP). 68 lakh street vendors benefitted under PM SVANidhi. SC/ST/OBC representation in cabinet increased. Over 112 Aspirational Districts exceeded state average in development. Ensuring Farmer Welfare Theme: “Beej se Bazaar Tak” — strengthening agriculture through holistic reforms. Key Data Points: ₹3.7 lakh crore transferred to PM-Kisan beneficiaries. Pulses MSP procurement rose by 7350%; oilseeds by 1500%. eNAM linked 1,473 mandis; 24 Mega Food Parks operational. ₹1 lakh crore allocated under Agriculture Infra Fund. Initiatives Taken: PM-Kisan, PM-FBY, PM-KSY, e-NAM, TOPS, Shree Anna (Millets), Soil Health Card. Achievements: India’s foodgrain output touched 347 MMT (2024–25). Record 63.56% increase in milk production. 1943 agri-startups supported under Export of processed food nearly doubled to $9.03 bn. New Momentum for Nari Shakti Theme: Lifecycle-based empowerment of women in social, economic, and digital spheres. Key Data Points: 38 crore MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh cr) to women (68%). 10 crore+ women in 90 lakh SHGs and 3 crores to become Lakhpati Didis. Sex Ratio at Birth: 1020 females per 1000 males. 77+ crore sanitary pads sold via Jan Aushadhi. Initiatives Taken: Mission Shakti, Ujjwala Yojana, PMMVY, Samarthya, BBBP, Mahila Samman Savings Certificate. Achievements: Paid maternity leave extended to 26 weeks. Institutional deliveries, MMR, and IMR improved significantly. Women now hold 73% of PMAY-Gramin ownership. 50,000+ startups have a woman director. Empowering Amrit-Peedhi (Youth) Theme: Harnessing demographic dividend via skilling, education, entrepreneurship, and sports. Key Data Points: 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana. 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational. 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs. 490 new universities opened. Initiatives Taken: NEP 2020, Startup India, Agnipath Scheme, Rozgar Mela, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, TOPS. Achievements: 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups. 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris). 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core. EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017. Ease of Living for Middle Class Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms. Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months. Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime. Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app. Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: Inclusive development through Antyodaya — ensuring 100% welfare coverage and irreversible empowerment.
• Key Data Points: 81 crores received free foodgrains under PMGKY. 5+ crore MUDRA loans disbursed and >50% to SC/ST/OBC. 15 crore households connected via Jal Jeevan Mission. 4 crore houses completed under PM Awas Yojana.
• 81 crores received free foodgrains under PMGKY.
• 5+ crore MUDRA loans disbursed and >50% to SC/ST/OBC.
• 15 crore households connected via Jal Jeevan Mission.
• 4 crore houses completed under PM Awas Yojana.
• Initiatives Taken: PMGKY, MUDRA, Stand-Up India, Namaste Scheme, Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, Aspirational Districts Programme.
• Achievements: India ended extreme poverty (IMF) and MPI indicators improved (UNDP). 68 lakh street vendors benefitted under PM SVANidhi. SC/ST/OBC representation in cabinet increased. Over 112 Aspirational Districts exceeded state average in development.
• India ended extreme poverty (IMF) and MPI indicators improved (UNDP).
• 68 lakh street vendors benefitted under PM SVANidhi.
• SC/ST/OBC representation in cabinet increased.
• Over 112 Aspirational Districts exceeded state average in development.
• Ensuring Farmer Welfare Theme: “Beej se Bazaar Tak” — strengthening agriculture through holistic reforms. Key Data Points: ₹3.7 lakh crore transferred to PM-Kisan beneficiaries. Pulses MSP procurement rose by 7350%; oilseeds by 1500%. eNAM linked 1,473 mandis; 24 Mega Food Parks operational. ₹1 lakh crore allocated under Agriculture Infra Fund. Initiatives Taken: PM-Kisan, PM-FBY, PM-KSY, e-NAM, TOPS, Shree Anna (Millets), Soil Health Card. Achievements: India’s foodgrain output touched 347 MMT (2024–25). Record 63.56% increase in milk production. 1943 agri-startups supported under Export of processed food nearly doubled to $9.03 bn. New Momentum for Nari Shakti Theme: Lifecycle-based empowerment of women in social, economic, and digital spheres. Key Data Points: 38 crore MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh cr) to women (68%). 10 crore+ women in 90 lakh SHGs and 3 crores to become Lakhpati Didis. Sex Ratio at Birth: 1020 females per 1000 males. 77+ crore sanitary pads sold via Jan Aushadhi. Initiatives Taken: Mission Shakti, Ujjwala Yojana, PMMVY, Samarthya, BBBP, Mahila Samman Savings Certificate. Achievements: Paid maternity leave extended to 26 weeks. Institutional deliveries, MMR, and IMR improved significantly. Women now hold 73% of PMAY-Gramin ownership. 50,000+ startups have a woman director. Empowering Amrit-Peedhi (Youth) Theme: Harnessing demographic dividend via skilling, education, entrepreneurship, and sports. Key Data Points: 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana. 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational. 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs. 490 new universities opened. Initiatives Taken: NEP 2020, Startup India, Agnipath Scheme, Rozgar Mela, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, TOPS. Achievements: 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups. 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris). 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core. EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017. Ease of Living for Middle Class Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms. Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months. Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime. Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app. Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: “Beej se Bazaar Tak” — strengthening agriculture through holistic reforms.
• Key Data Points: ₹3.7 lakh crore transferred to PM-Kisan beneficiaries. Pulses MSP procurement rose by 7350%; oilseeds by 1500%. eNAM linked 1,473 mandis; 24 Mega Food Parks operational. ₹1 lakh crore allocated under Agriculture Infra Fund.
• ₹3.7 lakh crore transferred to PM-Kisan beneficiaries.
• Pulses MSP procurement rose by 7350%; oilseeds by 1500%.
• eNAM linked 1,473 mandis; 24 Mega Food Parks operational.
• ₹1 lakh crore allocated under Agriculture Infra Fund.
• Initiatives Taken: PM-Kisan, PM-FBY, PM-KSY, e-NAM, TOPS, Shree Anna (Millets), Soil Health Card.
• Achievements: India’s foodgrain output touched 347 MMT (2024–25). Record 63.56% increase in milk production. 1943 agri-startups supported under Export of processed food nearly doubled to $9.03 bn.
• India’s foodgrain output touched 347 MMT (2024–25).
• Record 63.56% increase in milk production.
• 1943 agri-startups supported under
• Export of processed food nearly doubled to $9.03 bn.
• New Momentum for Nari Shakti Theme: Lifecycle-based empowerment of women in social, economic, and digital spheres. Key Data Points: 38 crore MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh cr) to women (68%). 10 crore+ women in 90 lakh SHGs and 3 crores to become Lakhpati Didis. Sex Ratio at Birth: 1020 females per 1000 males. 77+ crore sanitary pads sold via Jan Aushadhi. Initiatives Taken: Mission Shakti, Ujjwala Yojana, PMMVY, Samarthya, BBBP, Mahila Samman Savings Certificate. Achievements: Paid maternity leave extended to 26 weeks. Institutional deliveries, MMR, and IMR improved significantly. Women now hold 73% of PMAY-Gramin ownership. 50,000+ startups have a woman director. Empowering Amrit-Peedhi (Youth) Theme: Harnessing demographic dividend via skilling, education, entrepreneurship, and sports. Key Data Points: 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana. 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational. 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs. 490 new universities opened. Initiatives Taken: NEP 2020, Startup India, Agnipath Scheme, Rozgar Mela, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, TOPS. Achievements: 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups. 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris). 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core. EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017. Ease of Living for Middle Class Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms. Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months. Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime. Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app. Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: Lifecycle-based empowerment of women in social, economic, and digital spheres.
• Key Data Points: 38 crore MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh cr) to women (68%). 10 crore+ women in 90 lakh SHGs and 3 crores to become Lakhpati Didis. Sex Ratio at Birth: 1020 females per 1000 males. 77+ crore sanitary pads sold via Jan Aushadhi.
• 38 crore MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh cr) to women (68%).
• 10 crore+ women in 90 lakh SHGs and 3 crores to become Lakhpati Didis.
• Sex Ratio at Birth: 1020 females per 1000 males.
• 77+ crore sanitary pads sold via Jan Aushadhi.
• Initiatives Taken: Mission Shakti, Ujjwala Yojana, PMMVY, Samarthya, BBBP, Mahila Samman Savings Certificate.
• Achievements: Paid maternity leave extended to 26 weeks. Institutional deliveries, MMR, and IMR improved significantly. Women now hold 73% of PMAY-Gramin ownership. 50,000+ startups have a woman director.
• Paid maternity leave extended to 26 weeks.
• Institutional deliveries, MMR, and IMR improved significantly.
• Women now hold 73% of PMAY-Gramin ownership.
• 50,000+ startups have a woman director.
• Empowering Amrit-Peedhi (Youth) Theme: Harnessing demographic dividend via skilling, education, entrepreneurship, and sports. Key Data Points: 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana. 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational. 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs. 490 new universities opened. Initiatives Taken: NEP 2020, Startup India, Agnipath Scheme, Rozgar Mela, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, TOPS. Achievements: 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups. 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris). 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core. EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017. Ease of Living for Middle Class Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms. Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months. Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime. Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app. Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: Harnessing demographic dividend via skilling, education, entrepreneurship, and sports.
• Key Data Points: 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana. 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational. 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs. 490 new universities opened.
• 6 crore skilled under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana.
• 6,500 new IIT seats added; 23 IITs & 23 AIIMS operational.
• 6 lakh startups created 17.6 lakh jobs.
• 490 new universities opened.
• Initiatives Taken: NEP 2020, Startup India, Agnipath Scheme, Rozgar Mela, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, TOPS.
• Achievements: 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups. 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris). 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core. EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017.
• 8 lakh direct jobs by DPIIT-recognized startups.
• 61 Olympic/Paralympic medals (Tokyo + Paris).
• 94+ athletes supported under TOPS Core.
• EPFO added 8.59 crore formal jobs since 2017.
• Ease of Living for Middle Class Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms. Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months. Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime. Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app. Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: Improving quality of life via better housing, connectivity, digital access, and tax reforms.
• Key Data Points: 4 crore homes under Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025). UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants. 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months.
• 4 crore homes under
• Metro expanded from 5 cities (2014) to 23 cities (2025).
• UPI users: 46 crore individuals, 6.5 crore merchants.
• 5G rolled out in 99.6% districts in just 22 months.
• Initiatives Taken: PMAY, RERA, SWAMIH, UDAN, UMANG App, Svamitva Yojana, GST, New Tax Regime.
• Achievements: 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN. ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects. Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users. Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app.
• 5 crore+ citizens availed air travel under UDAN.
• ₹37,000 crore unlocked via SWAMIH for stalled projects.
• Data cost reduced by 97%; 52 crore Digilocker users.
• Over 2297 services digitized via UMANG app.
• Affordable, Accessible Healthcare for All Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure. Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available. Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC. Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• Theme: Transforming India into a global health leader through robust public health and infrastructure.
• Key Data Points: 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore. 77 crore ABHA health accounts created. 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered. 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available.
• 9+ crore Ayushman Bharat hospital admissions worth ₹1.3 lakh crore.
• 77 crore ABHA health accounts created.
• 220+ crore COVID vaccine doses administered.
• 18 lakh MBBS and 74,000 PG medical seats now available.
• Initiatives Taken: Ayushman Bharat, PM-ABHIM, Jan Aushadhi, e-Sanjeevani, Mission Indradhanush, NMC.
• Achievements: 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens. 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani. Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births. AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
• 16,000+ Jan Aushadhi Kendras saved ₹38,000 crore for citizens.
• 37+ crore teleconsultations via eSanjeevani.
• Maternal Mortality down from 130 to 80 per lakh live births.
• AIIMS opened in Northeast; 2,045 medical colleges in total.
Conclusion:
Over the past 11 years, the central government has ushered in a transformative era rooted in inclusive growth, digital empowerment, and national pride.
• The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous coordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. (2023)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025 GS Paper 3:
Restricting AC Temperature: A Climate-Smart and Health-Safe Cooling Strategy
Syllabus: Energy
Source: TH
Context: The Union Ministry of Power has proposed restricting the operational temperature range of new air conditioners to 20°C–28°C to save energy and safeguard public health.
About Restricting AC Temperature: A Climate-Smart and Health-Safe Cooling Strategy:
What is the Proposal?
• The new guidelines will mandate default AC settings between 20°C and 28°C in all new units used in homes, hotels, and vehicles.
• Unlike the earlier 24°C default advisory in 2018, these norms aim for hardwired compliance in manufacturing.
Why It Matters?
• Rising Cooling Load: India’s cooling demand is projected to reach 200 GW by 2030, placing a heavy burden on power infrastructure.
• Current Consumption: Air conditioners already account for 50 GW—about 20% of peak demand, despite low market penetration.
• Low Household Use, High Growth Potential: Only 6% of households currently use ACs, indicating massive future load if unregulated.
• Cost Implications: Increased cooling demand may force higher electricity tariffs and fossil-fuel-based generation, impacting economic equity.
Health Risks of Low Temperatures (<18°C):
• Cardiovascular Strain: Vasoconstriction below 18°C raises blood pressure by 6–8 mmHg, increasing hypertension risk.
• Respiratory Impacts in Children: Exposure to 16°C or less linked to lower lung capacity and airway resistance, especially in children.
• Mental Health Stress: Cold indoor climates are associated with higher depression and anxiety levels, as seen in UK studies.
• Disrupted Sleep Cycles: Constant overcooling disturbs sleep patterns, weakens immunity, and impairs daily functioning.
• Elderly Vulnerability: Elderly and infants have weaker thermoregulation, leading to higher morbidity in cold homes.
Restricting Temperature Range Helps:
• Energy Savings: Every 1°C increase in AC setting saves 6% power, enabling 20 billion units saved per year.
• Emissions Reduction: Lower consumption curbs CO₂ emissions, supporting India’s net-zero goals.
• System Efficiency: Reduces grid stress during summer, avoiding blackouts and fuel cost escalation.
• Health-Conscious Cooling: Ensures thermal comfort without health trade-offs, especially in densely populated urban areas.
• Model Global Practice: Follows global examples like Japan’s 28°C default, creating behavioral norms for responsible use.
Significance:
• Supports ICAP Goals: Reinforces the India Cooling Action Plan to reduce cooling energy demand by 25–30% by 2038.
• Meets Global Climate Commitments: Contributes to Paris Agreement targets and SDG 13: Climate Action.
• Enables Energy Equity: Helps keep energy affordable and accessible across income groups by controlling demand spikes.
• Public Awareness: Educates users on the health and economic downsides of extreme cooling preferences.
• Long-Term Urban Resilience: Promotes sustainable urban cooling strategies aligned with smart city goals and climate resilience.
Conclusion:
proposed AC temperature norms represent a scientifically backed, eco-friendly, and health-sensitive policy shift. By curbing energy use and public health risks, India takes a crucial step towards sustainable urban living and climate resilience.
• What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (2020)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Grief Across the Ethnic Divide in Manipur
Context: In a rare show of solidarity, Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur united in grief after two young women who perished in the Air India AI-171 plane crash.
About Grief Across the Ethnic Divide in Manipur:
• What Happened? Two cabin crew members from ethnically divided Manipur — Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma (Meitei) and Lamnunthem Singson (Kuki-Zo/Thadou) — died in the recent Air India crash. Despite longstanding ethnic violence, both communities expressed shared mourning, issuing condolence messages and tributes.
• Two cabin crew members from ethnically divided Manipur — Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma (Meitei) and Lamnunthem Singson (Kuki-Zo/Thadou) — died in the recent Air India crash. Despite longstanding ethnic violence, both communities expressed shared mourning, issuing condolence messages and tributes.
• Role of Grief in Building Social Cohesion:
• Shared mourning becomes a bridge for empathy, healing past wounds of division. Collective sorrow fosters human connection, overriding ethnic identity in times of loss. Civil society groups across divides used the moment to express solidarity, compassion, and a longing for peace. The tragedy rekindled the idea of common humanity, setting aside calls for separate administration and pride-based assertions. The incident highlighted how tragedy can temporarily dissolve conflict boundaries and foster emotional unity among fractured groups
• Shared mourning becomes a bridge for empathy, healing past wounds of division.
• Collective sorrow fosters human connection, overriding ethnic identity in times of loss.
• Civil society groups across divides used the moment to express solidarity, compassion, and a longing for peace.
• The tragedy rekindled the idea of common humanity, setting aside calls for separate administration and pride-based assertions.
• The incident highlighted how tragedy can temporarily dissolve conflict boundaries and foster emotional unity among fractured groups
• Relevance in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS Paper 1 (Indian Society): Communalism, Regionalism, Social Cohesion, Conflict Resolution GS Paper 2 (Governance): Role of Civil Society, Vulnerable Sections, Ethnic Conflicts GS Paper 4 (Ethics): Emotional Intelligence, Empathy in Public Life, Compassion Beyond Identity
• GS Paper 1 (Indian Society): Communalism, Regionalism, Social Cohesion, Conflict Resolution
• GS Paper 2 (Governance): Role of Civil Society, Vulnerable Sections, Ethnic Conflicts
• GS Paper 4 (Ethics): Emotional Intelligence, Empathy in Public Life, Compassion Beyond Identity
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
DNA Identification Techniques
Source: IE
Context: After the tragic Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad, authorities are using DNA identification techniques to confirm the identities of the deceased.
About DNA Identification Technique:
• What is DNA Identification? DNA identification is the forensic process of matching DNA from unidentified human remains with known biological samples. Each individual’s DNA (except identical twins) is unique, making it a biological fingerprint used to establish identity with high precision.
• DNA identification is the forensic process of matching DNA from unidentified human remains with known biological samples.
• Each individual’s DNA (except identical twins) is unique, making it a biological fingerprint used to establish identity with high precision.
• How DNA Identification Works? Sample Collection & Storage: DNA begins to degrade after death, especially in hot/humid conditions. Investigators collect DNA from hard tissues (bones, teeth) or soft tissues (skin, muscle), storing them in ethanol or freezing at -20°C to prevent breakdown. Reference Matching: Reference DNA is collected from close relatives (parents, children, maternal or paternal kin) or personal items (toothbrush, hairbrush) for comparison. Matching determines the relationship and helps confirm the identity of the remains. Methods of DNA Analysis: Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis: Evaluates repeating sequences in nuclear DNA. Most commonly used; accurate if DNA is well preserved. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis: Used when nuclear DNA is degraded. Inherited maternally, so it’s matched with maternal relatives. Y-Chromosome STR Analysis: Traces paternal lineage using male-specific Y chromosomes. Useful when close maternal relatives are unavailable. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs): Detects single-point mutations in highly degraded DNA. Less accurate than STR but useful when reference DNA is minimal.
• Sample Collection & Storage: DNA begins to degrade after death, especially in hot/humid conditions. Investigators collect DNA from hard tissues (bones, teeth) or soft tissues (skin, muscle), storing them in ethanol or freezing at -20°C to prevent breakdown.
• DNA begins to degrade after death, especially in hot/humid conditions.
• Investigators collect DNA from hard tissues (bones, teeth) or soft tissues (skin, muscle), storing them in ethanol or freezing at -20°C to prevent breakdown.
• Reference Matching: Reference DNA is collected from close relatives (parents, children, maternal or paternal kin) or personal items (toothbrush, hairbrush) for comparison. Matching determines the relationship and helps confirm the identity of the remains.
• Reference DNA is collected from close relatives (parents, children, maternal or paternal kin) or personal items (toothbrush, hairbrush) for comparison.
• Matching determines the relationship and helps confirm the identity of the remains.
• Methods of DNA Analysis: Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis: Evaluates repeating sequences in nuclear DNA. Most commonly used; accurate if DNA is well preserved. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis: Used when nuclear DNA is degraded. Inherited maternally, so it’s matched with maternal relatives. Y-Chromosome STR Analysis: Traces paternal lineage using male-specific Y chromosomes. Useful when close maternal relatives are unavailable. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs): Detects single-point mutations in highly degraded DNA. Less accurate than STR but useful when reference DNA is minimal.
• Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis: Evaluates repeating sequences in nuclear DNA. Most commonly used; accurate if DNA is well preserved.
• Evaluates repeating sequences in nuclear DNA.
• Most commonly used; accurate if DNA is well preserved.
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis: Used when nuclear DNA is degraded. Inherited maternally, so it’s matched with maternal relatives.
• Used when nuclear DNA is degraded.
• Inherited maternally, so it’s matched with maternal relatives.
• Y-Chromosome STR Analysis: Traces paternal lineage using male-specific Y chromosomes. Useful when close maternal relatives are unavailable.
• Traces paternal lineage using male-specific Y chromosomes.
• Useful when close maternal relatives are unavailable.
• Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs): Detects single-point mutations in highly degraded DNA. Less accurate than STR but useful when reference DNA is minimal.
• Detects single-point mutations in highly degraded DNA.
• Less accurate than STR but useful when reference DNA is minimal.
• Key Features and Applications: Gold Standard: Preferred in mass disasters, wars, plane crashes, and crime scenes. Accuracy: High specificity; can differentiate individuals even from degraded remains. Storage Sensitive: Requires strict protocols for preservation to avoid data loss. Universal Use: Employed by agencies worldwide, including CBI, INTERPOL, and ICRC. Legal Validity: DNA evidence is admissible in Indian courts under the Indian Evidence Act.
• Gold Standard: Preferred in mass disasters, wars, plane crashes, and crime scenes.
• Accuracy: High specificity; can differentiate individuals even from degraded remains.
• Storage Sensitive: Requires strict protocols for preservation to avoid data loss.
• Universal Use: Employed by agencies worldwide, including CBI, INTERPOL, and ICRC.
• Legal Validity: DNA evidence is admissible in Indian courts under the Indian Evidence Act.
A New Species of Jumping Spider
Source: TH
Context: A new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri, has been discovered in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This is the first Indian record of the genera Spartaeus and Sonoita, previously known only from Southeast Asia and Africa.
About A New Species of Jumping Spider:
• Scientific Classification:
• Name: Spartaeus karigiri Subfamily: Spartaeinae (Salticidae family) Related genera: Spartaeus and Sonoita
• Name: Spartaeus karigiri
• Subfamily: Spartaeinae (Salticidae family)
• Related genera: Spartaeus and Sonoita
• Location Found:
• Primary site: Karigiri (Elephant Hill), Devarayanadurga, Karnataka Other locations: Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu
• Primary site: Karigiri (Elephant Hill), Devarayanadurga, Karnataka
• Other locations: Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu
• Distinct Features:
• Male: Found in rocky outcrops and crevices Female: Observed guarding egg clutch in natural habitat Hunting skills: Uses intelligent mimicry and web-invasion strategies Eyesight: Exhibits keen vision, characteristic of Salticidae family
• Male: Found in rocky outcrops and crevices
• Female: Observed guarding egg clutch in natural habitat
• Hunting skills: Uses intelligent mimicry and web-invasion strategies
• Eyesight: Exhibits keen vision, characteristic of Salticidae family
• Scientific Significance:
• First record of Spartaeus and Sonoita genera in India. Confirms the presence of Sonoita cf. lightfooti, previously thought to be limited to Africa. Reveals high biodiversity in southern India’s rocky landscapes. Raises questions on biogeographical spread—natural vs. introduced species. Enhances understanding of predatory behavior and adaptive mimicry in arachnids.
• First record of Spartaeus and Sonoita genera in India.
• Confirms the presence of Sonoita cf. lightfooti, previously thought to be limited to Africa.
• Reveals high biodiversity in southern India’s rocky landscapes.
• Raises questions on biogeographical spread—natural vs. introduced species.
• Enhances understanding of predatory behavior and adaptive mimicry in arachnids.
Relaxed Key Provisions of the SEZ Rules, 2006
Source: TH
Context: The Government of India has relaxed key provisions of the SEZ Rules, 2006 to encourage semiconductor and electronics manufacturing.
• These changes aim to simplify land requirements, ease approvals, and enable domestic supply.
About Relaxed Key Provisions of the SEZ Rules, 2006:
• SEZs are designated zones with special economic regulations that differ from the rest of the country to attract foreign and domestic investment, promote exports, and boost manufacturing.
• Established under: Special Economic Zones Act, 2005.
• Administered by: Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
• Governing Law: Governed by the SEZ Act, 2005 and SEZ Rules, 2006.
• Key Features of SEZ Rules, 2006: Minimum Land Requirement: Mandated minimum contiguous land area of 50 hectares for general SEZs and varied for sector-specific SEZs. Export-Oriented Units: SEZ units must primarily export their output, with net foreign exchange earnings as a key criterion. Single-Window Clearance: Ensures fast-track approvals and simplified compliance through a unified authority (Board of Approval). Tax Incentives: Income tax exemptions, customs duty waivers, and GST-related benefits for SEZ developers and units. Encumbrance-Free Land: Required land to be free from legal disputes or ownership issues for SEZ development. Separate Customs Territory: SEZs are treated as deemed foreign territory for trade operations, duties, and tariffs.
• Minimum Land Requirement: Mandated minimum contiguous land area of 50 hectares for general SEZs and varied for sector-specific SEZs.
• Export-Oriented Units: SEZ units must primarily export their output, with net foreign exchange earnings as a key criterion.
• Single-Window Clearance: Ensures fast-track approvals and simplified compliance through a unified authority (Board of Approval).
• Tax Incentives: Income tax exemptions, customs duty waivers, and GST-related benefits for SEZ developers and units.
• Encumbrance-Free Land: Required land to be free from legal disputes or ownership issues for SEZ development.
• Separate Customs Territory: SEZs are treated as deemed foreign territory for trade operations, duties, and tariffs.
• Recent Relaxations in SEZ Rules: Land Requirement Eased: Minimum land size reduced from 50 hectares to 10 hectares for semiconductor/electronic component SEZs. Encumbrance-Free Clause Relaxed: SEZs can now be set up on land even with pending legal or administrative charges. Domestic Supply Permitted: SEZ units in semiconductor and electronic sectors allowed to sell within India after paying duties.
• Land Requirement Eased: Minimum land size reduced from 50 hectares to 10 hectares for semiconductor/electronic component SEZs.
• Encumbrance-Free Clause Relaxed: SEZs can now be set up on land even with pending legal or administrative charges.
• Domestic Supply Permitted: SEZ units in semiconductor and electronic sectors allowed to sell within India after paying duties.
Policy Reforms to Boost the Ease of Doing Research
Source: PIB
Context: The Union Minister of Science & Technology announced sweeping policy reforms to boost the Ease of Innovation, Ease of Doing Research, and Ease of Science in India.
About Policy Reforms to Boost the Ease of Doing Research:
• What is It? ‘Ease of Doing Research’ refers to removing bureaucratic hurdles and enabling faster, smoother, and more autonomous research activities in India’s academic and scientific institutions.
• ‘Ease of Doing Research’ refers to removing bureaucratic hurdles and enabling faster, smoother, and more autonomous research activities in India’s academic and scientific institutions.
• Key Policy Launches & Features
• Non-GeM Procurement Allowed: Research bodies can now bypass the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for specialised scientific equipment, speeding up procurement for unique tools not listed on GeM. Autonomy for Institutional Heads: Directors and Vice-Chancellors are now empowered to approve Global Tender Enquiries (GTEs) up to ₹200 crore, enhancing decision-making flexibility. Enhanced Financial Ceilings: Direct purchase limit doubled: ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh Departmental committee purchase limit raised: ₹1–10 lakh to ₹2–25 lakh Limited/advertised tenders cap increased: ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore Reduced Delays in R&D: Reforms address major complaints of researchers regarding procurement bottlenecks, approval delays, and slow exemption processes. Trust-Based Governance Model: The reforms emphasize trust in science leadership, coupled with accountability, to drive responsible autonomy in research spending.
• Non-GeM Procurement Allowed: Research bodies can now bypass the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for specialised scientific equipment, speeding up procurement for unique tools not listed on GeM.
• Autonomy for Institutional Heads: Directors and Vice-Chancellors are now empowered to approve Global Tender Enquiries (GTEs) up to ₹200 crore, enhancing decision-making flexibility.
• Enhanced Financial Ceilings: Direct purchase limit doubled: ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh Departmental committee purchase limit raised: ₹1–10 lakh to ₹2–25 lakh Limited/advertised tenders cap increased: ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore
• Direct purchase limit doubled: ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh
• Departmental committee purchase limit raised: ₹1–10 lakh to ₹2–25 lakh
• Limited/advertised tenders cap increased: ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore
• Reduced Delays in R&D: Reforms address major complaints of researchers regarding procurement bottlenecks, approval delays, and slow exemption processes.
• Trust-Based Governance Model: The reforms emphasize trust in science leadership, coupled with accountability, to drive responsible autonomy in research spending.
• Significance of the Reform:
• Faster Project Execution: Reduced bureaucratic delays accelerate scientific breakthroughs. Boost to Startups & Scholars: Enables smoother access to high-end tools and equipment, motivating young innovators. Promotes R&D Investment: Signals a policy environment conducive to both public and private R&D partnerships. Supports NEP 2020 Goals: Aligns with the National Education Policy’s focus on interdisciplinary research and student-led inquiry. Builds a $100 Billion Science Economy: Aims to replicate the success of space and nuclear liberalisation across all research domains.
• Faster Project Execution: Reduced bureaucratic delays accelerate scientific breakthroughs.
• Boost to Startups & Scholars: Enables smoother access to high-end tools and equipment, motivating young innovators.
• Promotes R&D Investment: Signals a policy environment conducive to both public and private R&D partnerships.
• Supports NEP 2020 Goals: Aligns with the National Education Policy’s focus on interdisciplinary research and student-led inquiry.
• Builds a $100 Billion Science Economy: Aims to replicate the success of space and nuclear liberalisation across all research domains.
Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy (SPArc Therapy)
Source: TH
Context: A 46-year-old woman with skull-base parotid cancer became the first patient to be treated using step-and-shoot spot-scanning proton arc therapy (SPArc), a cutting-edge radiotherapy technique that minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
About Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy (SPArc Therapy):
• SPArc is a novel proton-based radiotherapy technique that delivers precise radiation doses to complex tumours while sparing nearby organs.
• Developed by: Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, U.S.
• Objective: To maximize tumour irradiation while reducing radiation exposure to critical organs in sensitive anatomical areas like the brainstem, skull base, and optic nerves.
• Key Features: Step-and-Shoot Precision: Radiation is delivered in programmed angular steps across 180º, improving targeting accuracy while minimizing dose spillage. Layer-by-Layer Energy Modulation: Proton beams are adjusted across energy layers, painting the tumour slice by slice to ensure full coverage. Adaptive Treatment via Synthetic CT: AI-generated synthetic CT scans from cone-beam CT help track real-time anatomical changes and adjust dose delivery dynamically. Reduced Side Effects: The first patient had only minor skin irritation, no impact on diet or daily life—a big leap in quality of life for cancer patients.
• Step-and-Shoot Precision: Radiation is delivered in programmed angular steps across 180º, improving targeting accuracy while minimizing dose spillage.
• Layer-by-Layer Energy Modulation: Proton beams are adjusted across energy layers, painting the tumour slice by slice to ensure full coverage.
• Adaptive Treatment via Synthetic CT: AI-generated synthetic CT scans from cone-beam CT help track real-time anatomical changes and adjust dose delivery dynamically.
• Reduced Side Effects: The first patient had only minor skin irritation, no impact on diet or daily life—a big leap in quality of life for cancer patients.
• Applications: Head and Neck Cancers: Especially those near sensitive areas like the skull base or facial nerves. Large or Complex Tumours: Where precision and reduced collateral damage are essential. Refractory or Invasive Cancers: Where traditional radiation methods fail or pose high risk to healthy tissues.
• Head and Neck Cancers: Especially those near sensitive areas like the skull base or facial nerves.
• Large or Complex Tumours: Where precision and reduced collateral damage are essential.
• Refractory or Invasive Cancers: Where traditional radiation methods fail or pose high risk to healthy tissues.
• Significance for India: Precision Oncology Advancement: SPArc can improve survival outcomes in otherwise untreatable cases. Cost vs Benefit Debate: High costs and limited use raise concerns over equitable access and health system burden. India’s Opportunity: With increasing cancer rates, India may benefit from strategic integration of such technologies in tertiary centres.
• Precision Oncology Advancement: SPArc can improve survival outcomes in otherwise untreatable cases.
• Cost vs Benefit Debate: High costs and limited use raise concerns over equitable access and health system burden.
• India’s Opportunity: With increasing cancer rates, India may benefit from strategic integration of such technologies in tertiary centres.
Operation True Promise 3
Source: TOI
Context: Iran launched Operation True Promise 3, escalating military strikes on Israel for the third consecutive day.
About Operation True Promise 3:
• What is it? Operation True Promise 3 is Iran’s latest retaliatory military campaign targeting Israeli cities and infrastructure in response to Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear and command facilities.
• Operation True Promise 3 is Iran’s latest retaliatory military campaign targeting Israeli cities and infrastructure in response to Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear and command facilities.
• Launched by: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) under the directive of Iran’s supreme military leadership.
• Trigger: It was launched after Israel’s pre-emptive strikes that killed several top Iranian generals and damaged nuclear enrichment sites at Natanz and Isfahan.
• Impact: Key Israeli cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Rehovot were hit. Power stations, refineries, and scientific institutions were damaged.
• Key Israeli cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Rehovot were hit.
• Power stations, refineries, and scientific institutions were damaged.
About “New Method” Used in Missile Strikes:
• What is the “New Method”? The IRGC claimed to have deployed a novel strike mechanism wherein multiple missile types were programmed to overwhelm Israel’s air defence systems by creating internal target conflicts.
• The IRGC claimed to have deployed a novel strike mechanism wherein multiple missile types were programmed to overwhelm Israel’s air defence systems by creating internal target conflicts.
• How It Works? Simultaneous launches triggered misaligned threat signatures, forcing Israel’s defence systems (like Iron Dome) to misidentify or intercept each other. Some missiles intentionally mimicked decoys to create false positives in radar systems.
• Simultaneous launches triggered misaligned threat signatures, forcing Israel’s defence systems (like Iron Dome) to misidentify or intercept each other.
• Some missiles intentionally mimicked decoys to create false positives in radar systems.
• Features: Decoy Saturation: Overloaded Iron Dome by flooding the airspace with both real and false targets. Internal Disruption: Israel’s layered defence was made to target itself or malfunction. Multi-Target Penetration: Enabled missiles to hit high-density residential zones and economic infrastructure. AI-assisted Trajectory Alteration: Enhanced missile agility mid-flight for unpredictable targeting.
• Decoy Saturation: Overloaded Iron Dome by flooding the airspace with both real and false targets.
• Internal Disruption: Israel’s layered defence was made to target itself or malfunction.
• Multi-Target Penetration: Enabled missiles to hit high-density residential zones and economic infrastructure.
• AI-assisted Trajectory Alteration: Enhanced missile agility mid-flight for unpredictable targeting.
• Strategic Significance: Signals a tech leap in asymmetric warfare using cyber-kinetic convergence. Raises alarms over vulnerabilities in multi-layered missile defence Could alter the future of urban warfare, especially where high-value civilian and economic targets are clustered.
• Signals a tech leap in asymmetric warfare using cyber-kinetic convergence.
• Raises alarms over vulnerabilities in multi-layered missile defence
• Could alter the future of urban warfare, especially where high-value civilian and economic targets are clustered.
Nice Ocean Action Plan
Source: UN
Context: The Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) concluded in Nice, France, with a landmark political declaration and over 800 voluntary commitments by 170+ countries called as Nice Ocean Action Plan.
About Nice Ocean Action Plan:
• What is UNOC3? The United Nations Ocean Conference 2025, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, is the third in a series of global efforts to advance Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14 – Life Below Water).
• The United Nations Ocean Conference 2025, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, is the third in a series of global efforts to advance Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14 – Life Below Water).
• Participation:
• Held in Nice, France from June 8–13, 2025 Over 15,000 participants, 60+ world leaders, and 450+ side events Built on past UNOC events in New York (2017) and Lisbon (2022)
• Held in Nice, France from June 8–13, 2025
• Over 15,000 participants, 60+ world leaders, and 450+ side events
• Built on past UNOC events in New York (2017) and Lisbon (2022)
• Key Commitments under Nice Ocean Action Plan:
• Political Declaration titled “Our Ocean, Our Future: United for Urgent Action” 30% ocean protection by 2030 reaffirmed under the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework Ratification of BBNJ (High Seas Treaty) gains momentum – now at 50 countries €1 billion EU fund for marine protection and sustainable fisheries Coral Bond by Indonesia & World Bank to finance reef restoration Largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) by French Polynesia (entire EEZ – 5 million sq.km) High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean launched to reduce underwater noise pollution
• Political Declaration titled “Our Ocean, Our Future: United for Urgent Action”
• 30% ocean protection by 2030 reaffirmed under the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework
• Ratification of BBNJ (High Seas Treaty) gains momentum – now at 50 countries
• €1 billion EU fund for marine protection and sustainable fisheries
• Coral Bond by Indonesia & World Bank to finance reef restoration
• Largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) by French Polynesia (entire EEZ – 5 million sq.km)
• High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean launched to reduce underwater noise pollution
• Significance:
• Strengthens global marine governance amid climate and biodiversity crises
• Supports equitable financing for Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
• Encourages science-driven ocean literacy, deep-sea mining moratorium advocacy, and nature-based solutions
• Catalyses global unity on ocean-climate-action nexus ahead of SDG14’s 2030 deadline
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 June 2025 Place in News:
Cyprus
Source: FE
Context: Prime Minister visited Cyprus, marking the first Indian Prime Ministerial visit to the country in over two decades.
About Cyprus:
• Geographical Location: Cyprus lies in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, about 65 km south of Turkey and 100 km west of Syria.
• Divided Control: Republic of Cyprus (internationally recognized, EU member). Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey, formed after 1974 Turkish invasion).
• Republic of Cyprus (internationally recognized, EU member).
• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey, formed after 1974 Turkish invasion).
• Capital: Nicosia (called Lefkosia in the Republic and Lefkoşa in the Turkish-controlled north).
• Neighbouring Regions: Shares maritime proximity with Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. (NOT BORDERING NATIONS)
• Geographical Features: Third-largest Island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. Dominated by Kyrenia Mountains (north) and Troodos Mountains (south), with the Mesaoria Plain in between. Highest Peak: Mount Olympus (1,951 m), part of the Troodos range. Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and wet winters and rainfall critical for agriculture.
• Third-largest Island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia.
• Dominated by Kyrenia Mountains (north) and Troodos Mountains (south), with the Mesaoria Plain in between.
• Highest Peak: Mount Olympus (1,951 m), part of the Troodos range.
• Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and wet winters and rainfall critical for agriculture.
• Importance of Cyprus to India: Strategic Diplomatic Support: Cyprus is a consistent supporter of India’s permanent seat in the UN Security Council and backed India in the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Counterweight to Turkey’s Pro-Pakistan Stand: As Turkey strengthens its military and diplomatic ties with Pakistan, including drone transfers, India’s engagement with Cyprus signals strategic balancing in the region. Key Node in India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC): Located along the proposed IMEC route, Cyprus can facilitate India’s ambitions for deeper connectivity with Europe via the Mediterranean. EU Council Presidency Role: Cyprus will hold the EU Council Presidency in 2026, enhancing its significance in shaping EU–India trade and security cooperation.
• Strategic Diplomatic Support: Cyprus is a consistent supporter of India’s permanent seat in the UN Security Council and backed India in the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
• Counterweight to Turkey’s Pro-Pakistan Stand: As Turkey strengthens its military and diplomatic ties with Pakistan, including drone transfers, India’s engagement with Cyprus signals strategic balancing in the region.
• Key Node in India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC): Located along the proposed IMEC route, Cyprus can facilitate India’s ambitions for deeper connectivity with Europe via the Mediterranean.
• EU Council Presidency Role: Cyprus will hold the EU Council Presidency in 2026, enhancing its significance in shaping EU–India trade and security cooperation.
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