UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 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 3 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July (2025)
• India Earthquake Resilience
• UN SDG Report 2025
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Child Adoption Crisis in India
Child Adoption Crisis in India
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
• ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research
ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research
• NLC India Limited (NLCIL)
NLC India Limited (NLCIL)
• Splashdown Landings
Splashdown Landings
• Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
• AI Appreciation Day
AI Appreciation Day
• Israel Bombing Syria
Israel Bombing Syria
Mapping:
• South China Sea
South China Sea
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July 2025
#### GS Paper 3:
India Earthquake Resilience
Syllabus: Disaster Management
Source: TH
Context: A 4.4 magnitude earthquake in Delhi, exposed serious gaps in urban seismic resilience. With rising regional tremors, experts are calling for strict seismic code enforcement nationwide.
About India Earthquake Resilience:
What is Earthquake Resilience?
• Definition: Earthquake resilience refers to the ability of infrastructure, communities, and institutions to withstand and recover from seismic shocks with minimal damage and disruption.
• Global Context: Rising global seismic events—Myanmar (7.7), Tibet (5.7), Greece (6.2)—indicate tectonic unrest, underscoring the urgency for preparedness.
India’s Vulnerability to Earthquakes:
• 59% of India is earthquake-prone across Zones II–V (BIS classification).
• Seismic Zone V includes the Himalayan belt, NE states, Andaman & Nicobar Islands — highly vulnerable due to tectonic convergence (4–5 cm/year drift).
• Cities at Risk: Delhi (Zone IV, PGA 0.24g), Guwahati (Zone V, floodplain risk), Bhuj, Srinagar, and Gangtok face chronic seismic threats
Major Past Earthquakes in India:
• Kangra Earthquake, 1905: Magnitude 8.0, over 19,800 lives lost.
• Bhuj Earthquake, 2001: Magnitude 7.9, 12,932 deaths, 890 villages devastated.
• Nepal Quake, 2015: Magnitude 7.8, impacted Bihar, UP, and Delhi with widespread tremors.
• Delhi Earthquake, Feb 2025: Magnitude 4.0, 159 earthquakes recorded in just 4 months.
Present Vulnerabilities of India:
• Outdated Infrastructure: Over 80% of Delhi’s buildings, especially pre-2000 constructions, do not meet seismic safety standards (IS 1893:2016), posing serious collapse risks during tremors.
• Urban Liquefaction Zones: Cities like East Delhi, Guwahati, and Gangtok are built on soft, water-saturated soils, increasing the risk of soil liquefaction and building failure during earthquakes.
• Overcrowded Urban Centres: Delhi’s population of 33.5 million and 5,000+ high-rises intensify the threat of mass casualties in case of a high-magnitude quake.
• Enforcement Gaps: Weak implementation of seismic codes, lack of retrofitting enforcement, and poor citizen awareness continue to expose cities to preventable disasters.
Key Government Initiatives for Seismic Safety:
• NDMA & Disaster Management Act (2005): Established NDMA, NDRF, and SDMAs to institutionalize disaster risk reduction and response planning at national and state levels.
• Increased Seismic Observatories: India expanded its monitoring capacity from 80 stations in 2014 to 168 in 2025, enhancing early detection and seismic data coverage.
• BhooKamp App: Launched by NCS, this mobile app provides real-time earthquake alerts to citizens, improving public preparedness and rapid response.
• Earthquake Risk Indexing (EDRI): Risk profiling of 50 cities has been completed; an additional 16 cities are being added to guide urban planning and retrofitting priorities.
• Simplified Building Codes (2021): The updated codes reduce technical complexity, enabling better compliance and safer construction practices, especially in small towns.
• Retrofitting Guidelines: Government promotes structural retrofits like shear walls, ductile reinforcements, and jacketing for ageing, non-compliant buildings.
• Himalayan EEW Systems: Early warning systems are being piloted in Seismic Zone V areas to issue seconds-early alerts that can save lives during strong quakes.
Way Ahead:
• Strict Enforcement of BIS Codes: Cities must ensure compliance with seismic standards like IS 1893 and IS 4326 to minimize structural failures during quakes.
• Retrofitting Mission: Launch a nation-wide audit and retrofitting of vulnerable schools, hospitals, and government buildings using modern techniques.
• Urban Planning Reform: Ban construction on high-risk liquefaction zones and mandate base-isolated foundations in critical infrastructure.
• Annual Budgetary Allocation: Experts recommend earmarking ₹50,000 crore per year to fund retrofitting, seismic audits, and risk reduction projects.
• Public Awareness Drives: Nationwide drills, school awareness programs, and promotion of household earthquake kits are vital to building citizen readiness.
Conclusion:
India’s seismic vulnerability is rising, with urban expansion colliding with tectonic instability. Strengthening infrastructure, enforcing seismic codes, and educating citizens must become national priorities. Earthquake resilience is not a luxury—it’s a survival imperative.
UN SDG Report 2025
Syllabus: Economy
Source: DTE
Context: The UN SDG Report 2025, released at the High-Level Political Forum, warns that 35% of measurable SDG targets are stagnating or reversing, with five years left to 2030.
About Summary of UN SDG Report 2025:
• SDG 2: Zero Hunger Hunger affected 9.1% of the global population in 2023 (~713–757 million people). 2.33 billion people faced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2023. Sub-Saharan Africa: 23.2% hunger prevalence and Southern Asia: 281 million hungry.
• Hunger affected 9.1% of the global population in 2023 (~713–757 million people).
• 2.33 billion people faced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2023.
• Sub-Saharan Africa: 23.2% hunger prevalence and Southern Asia: 281 million hungry.
• SDG 4: Quality Education 57% of targets show no progress or are regressing. School completion, foundational literacy, and gender parity remain unmet in many nations.
• 57% of targets show no progress or are regressing.
• School completion, foundational literacy, and gender parity remain unmet in many nations.
• SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation 2.2 billion people lack safely managed drinking water. 3.4 billion people have no access to sanitation and 1.7 billion lack hygiene access.
• 2.2 billion people lack safely managed drinking water.
• 3.4 billion people have no access to sanitation and 1.7 billion lack hygiene access.
• SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth Half the targets stagnated or regressed. 57.8% of workers globally are in informal employment. Youth unemployment in 2024 stood at 12.9%, 3× adult rate (3.7%).
• Half the targets stagnated or regressed.
• 57.8% of workers globally are in informal employment.
• Youth unemployment in 2024 stood at 12.9%, 3× adult rate (3.7%).
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities Rising inequality across income, access to vaccines, digital divide, and climate vulnerability. No significant redistribution mechanisms expanded post-COVID-19.
• Rising inequality across income, access to vaccines, digital divide, and climate vulnerability.
• No significant redistribution mechanisms expanded post-COVID-19.
• SDG 14: Life Below Water 40% of targets regressing. Ocean acidification, marine pollution, and overfishing worsening. Least funded SDG, as highlighted at UN Ocean Conference 2025.
• 40% of targets regressing.
• Ocean acidification, marine pollution, and overfishing worsening.
• Least funded SDG, as highlighted at UN Ocean Conference 2025.
• SDG 3: Good Health & Well-Being Maternal mortality and universal health coverage targets stalled. Health systems under post-pandemic strain and chronic underinvestment.
• Maternal mortality and universal health coverage targets stalled.
• Health systems under post-pandemic strain and chronic underinvestment.
• SDG 12, 15, 16 (Responsible Consumption, Life on Land, Peace & Justice) 40–42% of targets off-track. Forest loss, biodiversity erosion, institutional backsliding seen in many nations.
• 40–42% of targets off-track.
• Forest loss, biodiversity erosion, institutional backsliding seen in many nations.
Negative Trends Identified:
• Climate Crisis: 2024 was the hottest year; WMO predicts an 80% chance of hotter years ahead, endangering food, water, and health security.
• Extreme Poverty: Over 800 million people remain extremely poor; SDG1 is off-track as 8.9% may still live in poverty by 2030.
• Debt & Aid Decline: A 7.1% fall in official aid in 2024 hampers SDG funding for low-income nations.
• SDG Financing Gap: A $4 trillion annual gap stalls SDG investments in developing countries due to limited access to affordable capital.
Positive Trends Identified:
• HIV Infections: Global HIV cases declined 40% since 2010, marking strong gains in SDG3 health targets.
• Malaria Control: 2.2 billion malaria cases averted and 12.7 million lives saved since 2000 through prevention and treatment.
• Social Protection: Coverage now reaches over 50% of the world population, advancing inclusive welfare goals.
Way Ahead: Roadmap for 2030:
• Reform Global Finance Architecture: Adopt the Sevilla Commitment: Expand multilateral lending, cut debt burdens.
• Focus on Six Key Accelerators: Transform food systems, ensure energy access, promote digital transformation. Expand inclusive education, create decent jobs, and protect climate/biodiversity.
• Transform food systems, ensure energy access, promote digital transformation.
• Expand inclusive education, create decent jobs, and protect climate/biodiversity.
• Build Resilient Data Systems: Implement the Medellín Framework for Action for data-driven SDG policies.
• Target Most Affected SDGs: Immediate action on SDG 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 — with multilateral and domestic investments.
• Urgent Multilateralism: Recommit to collective action beyond national interest — especially in G20 and BRICS forums.
Conclusion:
The UN SDG Report 2025 paints a sobering picture of stagnation amid global crises. While there are islands of success, systemic transformation and urgent global cooperation are essential. Achieving the 2030 Agenda now hinges on political will, equitable finance, and inclusive governance.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Child Adoption Crisis in India
Context: A new RTI-based report reveals a widening gap between adoptable children and prospective parents in India, with 13 families waiting per child, triggering concern over delays, legal bottlenecks, and policy inaction.
About Child Adoption Crisis in India:
• 13:1 Ratio (2025): For every 1 child legally free for adoption, 13 prospective parents are waiting — up from 11:1 in 2021.
• Parents Waiting (2025): 36,381 families registered on CARA portal.
• Children Available: Only 2,652 declared legally free for adoption.
• Delay in Referrals: Average wait time has increased from 1 year (2017) to 5 years (2025).
• Children in CCIs: Over 22,000 children live in Child Care Institutions, but only a fraction (12%) are cleared for adoption.
• Regional Gap Example:
• Himachal Pradesh: Only 1 child free for adoption, while 829 are in CCIs. Maharashtra: Only 236 children adoptable out of 5,284 in CCIs.
• Himachal Pradesh: Only 1 child free for adoption, while 829 are in CCIs.
• Maharashtra: Only 236 children adoptable out of 5,284 in CCIs.
• Age Group Concern: Nearly 34% of children in the adoption pool are aged 14–18, a group less likely to be adopted.
Relevance in UPSC Examination:
• GS Paper 2 – Governance & Social Justice:
• Policy failure in implementing Juvenile Justice Act (2021) time-bound procedures. Highlights poor coordination among State CCIs, DCPUs, and adoption agencies.
• Policy failure in implementing Juvenile Justice Act (2021) time-bound procedures.
• Highlights poor coordination among State CCIs, DCPUs, and adoption agencies.
• GS Paper 1 – Society:
• Shows changing perceptions of family, infertility, adoption, and parental preference. Raises issues of social stigma, age bias, and adoption ethics in India.
• Shows changing perceptions of family, infertility, adoption, and parental preference.
• Raises issues of social stigma, age bias, and adoption ethics in India.
• Essay & Ethics (GS-4):
• Reflects on values of compassion, empathy, and the ethical duty of the state to ensure family life for every child.
• Reflects on values of compassion, empathy, and the ethical duty of the state to ensure family life for every child.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
Source: PIB
Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, a ₹24,000 crore/year scheme for six years starting 2025–26, to boost agricultural development in 100 low-performing districts.
About Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana:
• What It Is? A targeted agricultural transformation programme aimed at low-productivity, low-credit, and moderate crop intensity districts through convergence of central schemes.
• A targeted agricultural transformation programme aimed at low-productivity, low-credit, and moderate crop intensity districts through convergence of central schemes.
• Announced In: Union Budget 2025–26 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
• Ministry Involved: Coordinated by Ministry of Agriculture, with NITI Aayog providing strategic guidance and monitoring support.
• Budget & Duration:
• ₹24,000 crore annually. Implemented over 6 years (2025–2031).
• ₹24,000 crore annually.
• Implemented over 6 years (2025–2031).
• Core Objectives:
• Boost Agricultural Productivity: Close yield gaps using scientific practices and tech infusion. Promote Crop Diversification: Encourage sustainable, climate-resilient and high-value crops. Enhance Post-Harvest Infrastructure: Panchayat/block-level cold storages and logistics. Improve Irrigation Coverage: Repair and expand irrigation networks to ensure water efficiency. Strengthen Credit Access: Facilitate timely short- and long-term credit via institutional channels
• Boost Agricultural Productivity: Close yield gaps using scientific practices and tech infusion.
• Promote Crop Diversification: Encourage sustainable, climate-resilient and high-value crops.
• Enhance Post-Harvest Infrastructure: Panchayat/block-level cold storages and logistics.
• Improve Irrigation Coverage: Repair and expand irrigation networks to ensure water efficiency.
• Strengthen Credit Access: Facilitate timely short- and long-term credit via institutional channels
• Key Features of PMDDKY:
• Convergence of 36 Schemes from 11 ministries (e.g. RKVY, PMKSY, PMFBY, etc.). District Agriculture & Allied Plan to be prepared by “District Dhan Dhaanya Samiti” (with Collector & progressive farmers). Performance Monitoring: 117 Key Performance Indicators tracked monthly via a national dashboard. Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) assigned for field review and oversight. Collaboration with Agri Universities and technical institutions for knowledge-sharing.
• Convergence of 36 Schemes from 11 ministries (e.g. RKVY, PMKSY, PMFBY, etc.).
• District Agriculture & Allied Plan to be prepared by “District Dhan Dhaanya Samiti” (with Collector & progressive farmers).
• Performance Monitoring: 117 Key Performance Indicators tracked monthly via a national dashboard.
• Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) assigned for field review and oversight.
• Collaboration with Agri Universities and technical institutions for knowledge-sharing.
• District Selection Criteria:
• Based on: Low productivity, Moderate cropping intensity, Low credit flow. Every state/UT to have at least one district selected. Proportionate allocation based on net cropped area and operational holdings.
• Based on: Low productivity, Moderate cropping intensity, Low credit flow.
• Low productivity,
• Moderate cropping intensity,
• Low credit flow.
• Every state/UT to have at least one district selected.
• Proportionate allocation based on net cropped area and operational holdings.
ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research
Source: NIE
Context: The 97th Foundation Day of ICAR was celebrated in New Delhi, where Union Agriculture Minister addressed scientists and farmers.
About ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research:
• What is ICAR? The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous apex body under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, responsible for coordinating agricultural education, research, and extension across India.
• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous apex body under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, responsible for coordinating agricultural education, research, and extension across India.
• Founded: 16 July 1929 (as Imperial Council of Agricultural Research).
• Reconstituted under: Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• Headquarters: Located in New Delhi.
• Parent Body: Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE).
• President (Ex-Officio): Union Minister of Agriculture.
• Key Functions:
• Promote Education & Research: Plan, fund, and coordinate R&D in agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, agroforestry, home science, and allied fields. Technology Transfer & Extension: Act as a central knowledge hub for farmers through publications, exhibitions, and technology outreach programs. Capacity Building: Support skill development and higher agricultural education through competitive examinations and recruitment (ASRB). Consultancy & Collaboration: Partner with national institutions like CSIR, BARC, and international bodies for integrated rural development and post-harvest solutions. Policy Advice: Guide government on sustainable practices, innovation, and food security.
• Promote Education & Research: Plan, fund, and coordinate R&D in agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, agroforestry, home science, and allied fields.
• Technology Transfer & Extension: Act as a central knowledge hub for farmers through publications, exhibitions, and technology outreach programs.
• Capacity Building: Support skill development and higher agricultural education through competitive examinations and recruitment (ASRB).
• Consultancy & Collaboration: Partner with national institutions like CSIR, BARC, and international bodies for integrated rural development and post-harvest solutions.
• Policy Advice: Guide government on sustainable practices, innovation, and food security.
• Major Initiatives Announced at ICAR’s 97th Foundation Day:
• Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan: Largest farmer-scientist dialogue, 500 research areas identified for region- and crop-specific needs. Field-Guided Research Agenda: Farmer-driven research priorities and teams to adopt “One Team, One Goal” model. Natural Farming Push: Focus on chemical-free, sustainable agriculture for long-term environmental health. Fertilizer Testing Kits: Portable kits to help farmers verify soil and input quality, curb adulteration. Toll-Free Grievance Helpline: To report fraud in seeds and fertilizers, crackdown on 30,000+ unregulated bio-stimulants. Ethical MoUs and Pricing Oversight: Mandatory price fairness in ICAR-industry collaborations to protect farmer interests.
• Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan: Largest farmer-scientist dialogue, 500 research areas identified for region- and crop-specific needs.
• Field-Guided Research Agenda: Farmer-driven research priorities and teams to adopt “One Team, One Goal” model.
• Natural Farming Push: Focus on chemical-free, sustainable agriculture for long-term environmental health.
• Fertilizer Testing Kits: Portable kits to help farmers verify soil and input quality, curb adulteration.
• Toll-Free Grievance Helpline: To report fraud in seeds and fertilizers, crackdown on 30,000+ unregulated bio-stimulants.
• Ethical MoUs and Pricing Oversight: Mandatory price fairness in ICAR-industry collaborations to protect farmer interests.
NLC India Limited (NLCIL)
Source: NDTV
Context: The Union Cabinet has approved a special investment exemption for NLC India Limited (NLCIL), allowing it to invest ₹7,000 crore in renewable energy without prior approvals.
About NLC India Limited (NLCIL):
• What It Is? A Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) engaged in lignite mining and thermal, coal, and renewable power generation.
• A Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) engaged in lignite mining and thermal, coal, and renewable power generation.
• Established: 1956
• Headquarters: Neyveli, Tamil Nadu
• Under: Ministry of Coal
• Mission: Integrating People, Planet, and Profit through sustainable mining and green energy leadership.
• Functions & Objectives:
• Mining of lignite and coal in India and abroad. Power generation from thermal and renewable sources. Undertakes major sustainability projects: eco-restoration, afforestation, rainwater harvesting. Implements clean mining technologies, emission control, and community-centric CSR. Aligns operations with India’s climate goals and Net Zero roadmap.
• Mining of lignite and coal in India and abroad.
• Power generation from thermal and renewable sources.
• Undertakes major sustainability projects: eco-restoration, afforestation, rainwater harvesting.
• Implements clean mining technologies, emission control, and community-centric CSR.
• Aligns operations with India’s climate goals and Net Zero roadmap.
Investment Exemption:
• What It Is?
• ₹7,000 crore investment allowed by NLCIL in its wholly-owned subsidiary NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL). NIRL can invest further via direct route or Joint Ventures (JVs) in RE projects. No need for prior approval, as required under usual CPSE guidelines.
• ₹7,000 crore investment allowed by NLCIL in its wholly-owned subsidiary NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL).
• NIRL can invest further via direct route or Joint Ventures (JVs) in RE projects.
• No need for prior approval, as required under usual CPSE guidelines.
• Exemption Details:
• Waiver of 30% net worth ceiling set by Dept. of Public Enterprises (DPE). Exemption from investment caps under “Navratna CPSE” rules.
• Waiver of 30% net worth ceiling set by Dept. of Public Enterprises (DPE).
• Exemption from investment caps under “Navratna CPSE” rules.
• Eligibility:
• Applies to NLCIL and NIRL for India’s renewable energy expansion plan. Covers transfer of 2 GW existing RE assets and new green investments.
• Applies to NLCIL and NIRL for India’s renewable energy expansion plan.
• Covers transfer of 2 GW existing RE assets and new green investments.
Splashdown Landings
Source: IE
Context: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom-4 crew returned safely after a 20-hour journey from the International Space Station (ISS), splashing down in the Pacific Ocean aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft.
About Splashdown Landings:
• What Is a Splashdown?
• Splashdown is a space capsule landing method in which the spacecraft touches down on a water surface, typically the ocean, using parachutes and buoyancy systems. Capsules like SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan module are designed for sea recovery operations.
• Splashdown is a space capsule landing method in which the spacecraft touches down on a water surface, typically the ocean, using parachutes and buoyancy systems.
• Capsules like SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan module are designed for sea recovery operations.
• How It Works?
• Re-entry Speed: The spacecraft re-enters Earth’s atmosphere at over 27,000 km/h, creating high friction and deceleration. Parachute Deployment: Two drogue parachutes deploy first at ~18,000 ft to stabilize and reduce speed. Four main parachutes follow at ~6,500 ft to further slow the descent. Controlled Descent: Capsules glide at an angle, not vertically, covering 5,000–7,000 km before splashdown. Final descent speed reduces to 25–30 km/h, safe for water landing. Floatation: Spacecraft are designed to float post-landing, with conical shapes and rounded hulls resembling ship bottoms.
• Re-entry Speed: The spacecraft re-enters Earth’s atmosphere at over 27,000 km/h, creating high friction and deceleration.
• Parachute Deployment: Two drogue parachutes deploy first at ~18,000 ft to stabilize and reduce speed. Four main parachutes follow at ~6,500 ft to further slow the descent.
• Two drogue parachutes deploy first at ~18,000 ft to stabilize and reduce speed.
• Four main parachutes follow at ~6,500 ft to further slow the descent.
• Controlled Descent: Capsules glide at an angle, not vertically, covering 5,000–7,000 km before splashdown. Final descent speed reduces to 25–30 km/h, safe for water landing.
• Capsules glide at an angle, not vertically, covering 5,000–7,000 km before splashdown.
• Final descent speed reduces to 25–30 km/h, safe for water landing.
• Floatation: Spacecraft are designed to float post-landing, with conical shapes and rounded hulls resembling ship bottoms.
• Why Splashdowns Are Preferred? Simpler & Safer Design: Water acts as a natural cushion, reducing impact shock without the need for landing legs or complex systems. Shock Absorption: Ocean’s high density and low viscosity absorb landing forces better than solid ground. Fewer Precision Demands: Unlike land, oceans offer vast open areas, so minor off-course drifts cause no harm. Cost-Effective: Avoids infrastructure like runways, airbags, or retro-propulsion systems, reducing cost and complexity. Safety for Crew and Payload: Water slows impact, minimizing injury risk and protecting onboard equipment. Compatibility with Current Modules: Most modern return capsules like Dragon, Orion, Gaganyaan are specifically built for splashdown.
• Simpler & Safer Design: Water acts as a natural cushion, reducing impact shock without the need for landing legs or complex systems.
• Shock Absorption: Ocean’s high density and low viscosity absorb landing forces better than solid ground.
• Fewer Precision Demands: Unlike land, oceans offer vast open areas, so minor off-course drifts cause no harm.
• Cost-Effective: Avoids infrastructure like runways, airbags, or retro-propulsion systems, reducing cost and complexity.
• Safety for Crew and Payload: Water slows impact, minimizing injury risk and protecting onboard equipment.
• Compatibility with Current Modules: Most modern return capsules like Dragon, Orion, Gaganyaan are specifically built for splashdown.
Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
Source: HET
Context: Gujarat became the first Indian state to launch a Tribal Genome Sequencing Project to build a reference genetic database aimed at improving healthcare access for tribal populations.
About Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal Genome Sequencing Project:
• What It Is? A pioneering genomic research initiative to sequence the genomes of 2,000 tribal individuals across 17 districts of Gujarat to enhance precision medicine.
• A pioneering genomic research initiative to sequence the genomes of 2,000 tribal individuals across 17 districts of Gujarat to enhance precision medicine.
• Launched By: Implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).
• Objectives: To identify genetic risk markers linked to inherited disorders like: Sickle cell anaemia Thalassemia Hereditary cancers To develop personalised healthcare protocols based on tribal genetic profiles. To bridge the health equity gap using science-led tribal empowerment.
• To identify genetic risk markers linked to inherited disorders like: Sickle cell anaemia Thalassemia Hereditary cancers
• Sickle cell anaemia
• Thalassemia
• Hereditary cancers
• To develop personalised healthcare protocols based on tribal genetic profiles.
• To bridge the health equity gap using science-led tribal empowerment.
• Key Features: Involves advanced infrastructure for sample collection, sequencing, and data analysis. Focus on natural immunity markers and customised medical care. Engagement with tribal communities for inclusive consultation and awareness. Covers diverse tribal groups from 17 districts to ensure representation and diversity.
• Involves advanced infrastructure for sample collection, sequencing, and data analysis.
• Focus on natural immunity markers and customised medical care.
• Engagement with tribal communities for inclusive consultation and awareness.
• Covers diverse tribal groups from 17 districts to ensure representation and diversity.
• Significance: Healthcare Equity: Enables early detection and tailored treatment for genetic diseases in underserved communities. Data-Driven Public Health: Establishes a baseline genomic database for long-term health research and policy planning. National Replicability: Serves as a model for other Indian states to follow in building region-specific genomic policies.
• Healthcare Equity: Enables early detection and tailored treatment for genetic diseases in underserved communities.
• Data-Driven Public Health: Establishes a baseline genomic database for long-term health research and policy planning.
• National Replicability: Serves as a model for other Indian states to follow in building region-specific genomic policies.
AI Appreciation Day
Source: TOI
Context: India observed AI Appreciation Day on July 16 to highlight the country’s rapid progress in artificial intelligence across sectors like healthcare, education, governance, and agriculture.
About AI Appreciation Day:
• What It Is? An annual event that recognizes the transformative role of AI in society, and acknowledges the contributions of developers, scientists, and policymakers in advancing AI for public good.
• An annual event that recognizes the transformative role of AI in society, and acknowledges the contributions of developers, scientists, and policymakers in advancing AI for public good.
• Celebrated On: July 16 every year, globally and now with active observance in India.
• Objectives:
• Celebrate AI innovations that solve real-world challenges. Raise awareness about the ethical use of AI in public and private sectors. Promote inclusive growth by integrating AI into governance and service delivery. Encourage youth participation and skilling in AI technologies.
• Celebrate AI innovations that solve real-world challenges.
• Raise awareness about the ethical use of AI in public and private sectors.
• Promote inclusive growth by integrating AI into governance and service delivery.
• Encourage youth participation and skilling in AI technologies.
• Key Features of India’s AI Journey:
• Historical Foundation: India’s AI trajectory began in the 1960s with early computing research and advanced through 1986’s Knowledge-Based Computer Systems (KBCS) project. Institutional Push: Initiatives like Digital India (2015) and NITI Aayog’s National Strategy for AI (2018) institutionalized AI in governance and planning. Diverse Applications:
• Historical Foundation: India’s AI trajectory began in the 1960s with early computing research and advanced through 1986’s Knowledge-Based Computer Systems (KBCS) project.
• Institutional Push: Initiatives like Digital India (2015) and NITI Aayog’s National Strategy for AI (2018) institutionalized AI in governance and planning.
• Diverse Applications:
• AI is being applied in:
• Healthcare: Early diagnostics and telemedicine. Agriculture: Precision farming and pest prediction. Education: Adaptive learning and language translation tools. Governance: Chatbots, e-courts, and real-time grievance redressal. Ethical Reflection: The Day is also a reminder to foster responsible AI use, especially in addressing bias, transparency, and cybersecurity.
• Healthcare: Early diagnostics and telemedicine. Agriculture: Precision farming and pest prediction. Education: Adaptive learning and language translation tools. Governance: Chatbots, e-courts, and real-time grievance redressal.
• Healthcare: Early diagnostics and telemedicine.
• Agriculture: Precision farming and pest prediction.
• Education: Adaptive learning and language translation tools.
• Governance: Chatbots, e-courts, and real-time grievance redressal.
• Ethical Reflection: The Day is also a reminder to foster responsible AI use, especially in addressing bias, transparency, and cybersecurity.
• Significance:
• Boosts National AI Capacity: Showcases India’s readiness to be a global AI hub. Empowers Citizens: Democratizes access to services via smart governance tools. Strengthens Digital Economy: AI contributes to innovation, productivity, and startup growth. Promotes Equity: Encourages inclusion of underserved communities in digital progress.
• Boosts National AI Capacity: Showcases India’s readiness to be a global AI hub.
• Empowers Citizens: Democratizes access to services via smart governance tools.
• Strengthens Digital Economy: AI contributes to innovation, productivity, and startup growth.
• Promotes Equity: Encourages inclusion of underserved communities in digital progress.
Israel Bombing Syria
Source: NDTV
Context: Israel launched multiple airstrikes on Damascus and Suwayda in Syria, citing the protection of the Druze minority, triggering condemnation from Syria over what it called a “flagrant assault” on its sovereignty.
About Israel Bombing Syria:
What Is the Issue?
• Israel has intensified military operations across southern Syria and Damascus amidst violent clashes in Suwayda, a Druze-majority region.
• The strikes were triggered by sectarian clashes between Druze militias, Sunni Bedouins, and Syrian security forces.
• Israel claims its strikes aim to protect the Druze minority and prevent hostile forces near its borders, especially in the Golan Heights region.
Who Are the Druze?
• The Druze are an Arabic-speaking ethno-religious group with roots in Shia Islam, though their beliefs are unique and secretive.
• Population: ~1 million globally. Largest populations in Syria (~50%), Lebanon, Israel, and Golan Heights.
• ~1 million globally.
• Largest populations in Syria (~50%), Lebanon, Israel, and Golan Heights.
• In Israel, Druze serve in the military and are considered loyal citizens.
• In Syria, they historically maintained autonomy through local militias and resisted integration into state forces.
Areas Targeted in Israeli Strikes:
• Damascus (Central)
• Suwayda Province (South Syria)
Causes Behind the Israeli Bombing:
• Druze-Bedouin Clashes: Began with kidnappings and escalated into a full-fledged battle involving Syrian forces.
• Syrian Army Action: Troops intervened and reportedly targeted Druze civilians, prompting Israeli response.
• Israeli Strategic Interests: Prevent Islamist groups and pro-Iran factions from gaining ground in southern Syria. Create a buffer zone near Golan Heights. Gain influence among Syrian minorities post-Assad regime’s fall in 2024.
• Prevent Islamist groups and pro-Iran factions from gaining ground in southern Syria.
• Create a buffer zone near Golan Heights.
• Gain influence among Syrian minorities post-Assad regime’s fall in 2024.
• Ceasefire Breakdown: A brief truce collapsed; fighting resumed, providing Israel further justification.
Geo-Strategic Significance:
• Suwayda lies at the crossroads of Syria, Jordan, and Israel, making it vital for border security.
• The region’s instability threatens regional peace and enables foreign interventions.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 17 July 2025 Mapping:
South China Sea
Source: TOI
Context: The United States Navy will construct two military boat repair facilities in Palawan, Philippines, facing the South China Sea, to strengthen maritime security amid rising tensions with China in the contested region.
About South China Sea:
• What It Is? The South China Sea is the largest marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean, known for its strategic and economic importance due to rich marine biodiversity, oil reserves, and critical shipping lanes.
• The South China Sea is the largest marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean, known for its strategic and economic importance due to rich marine biodiversity, oil reserves, and critical shipping lanes.
• Location:
• Located between Southeast Asia and China, it connects to the Pacific via the Luzon Strait and to the Indian Ocean through the Strait of Malacca. Major geographic features include: China Sea Basin: Deepest point (~5,000 m). Palawan Trough and Sunda Shelf: Vital undersea features.
• Located between Southeast Asia and China, it connects to the Pacific via the Luzon Strait and to the Indian Ocean through the Strait of Malacca.
• Major geographic features include: China Sea Basin: Deepest point (~5,000 m). Palawan Trough and Sunda Shelf: Vital undersea features.
• China Sea Basin: Deepest point (~5,000 m).
• Palawan Trough and Sunda Shelf: Vital undersea features.
• Neighbouring Nations:
• Direct claimants or stakeholders include: China, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The sea borders the Philippines (east), Vietnam (west), Malaysia & Borneo (south), and China (north).
• Direct claimants or stakeholders include: China, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
• The sea borders the Philippines (east), Vietnam (west), Malaysia & Borneo (south), and China (north).
• Disputes & Strategic Importance:
• China claims nearly 90% of the sea under its “Nine-Dash Line,” overlapping with EEZs of ASEAN countries. Key flashpoints: Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal. Frequent standoffs between Chinese and Philippine vessels. The sea is a major global trade route and is central to U.S.–China strategic rivalry.
• China claims nearly 90% of the sea under its “Nine-Dash Line,” overlapping with EEZs of ASEAN countries.
• Key flashpoints: Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal. Frequent standoffs between Chinese and Philippine vessels.
• Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal.
• Frequent standoffs between Chinese and Philippine vessels.
• The sea is a major global trade route and is central to U.S.–China strategic rivalry.
• Rivers Draining into It:
• Major rivers: Mekong River (Vietnam) Red River Other smaller rivers from Malaysia, Philippines, and China.
• Major rivers: Mekong River (Vietnam) Red River Other smaller rivers from Malaysia, Philippines, and China.
• Mekong River (Vietnam)
• Other smaller rivers from Malaysia, Philippines, and China.
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