UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 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.

GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July (2025)

• India-Maldives Relations

India-Maldives Relations

GS Paper 3:

• Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025

Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• A Grove Revived – The Story of Sirawas

A Grove Revived – The Story of Sirawas

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car

Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car

• Black Hole GRS 1915+105

Black Hole GRS 1915+105

• Kargil Vijay Diwas

Kargil Vijay Diwas

• Rajendra Chola I

Rajendra Chola I

• Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

• PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Mapping:

• France recognise Palestine Statehood

France recognise Palestine Statehood

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025

#### GS Paper 2:

India-Maldives Relations

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: HT

Context: During Prime Minister of India official visit to the Maldives, 8 key bilateral agreements were signed, covering digital payments (UPI), debt relief, fisheries, infrastructure, and a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit, marking a renewed phase in India-Maldives relations.

About India-Maldives relations:

India and Maldives share deep-rooted ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and commercial ties, reinforced by proximity in the Indian Ocean. Maldives is a critical part of India’s “Neighbourhood First” and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy frameworks.

Recent Outcomes:

8 Key Agreements Signed:

• Debt Relief: India agreed to reduce Maldives’ annual repayment burden by 40%.

• ₹4,850 Cr Line of Credit: For infrastructure aligned with Maldives’ development goals.

• UPI and RuPay Integration: To expand digital connectivity and promote local currency trade.

• Fisheries Cooperation: Strengthened ties in livelihood and marine economy.

• 3,300 Housing Units: Handover of Indian-financed social housing in Hulhumalé.

• Security Assistance: India gifted 72 vehicles and defence equipment.

• Climate & Disaster Partnership: Joint cooperation on resilience and green energy.

• FTA and Investment Talks: Agreed to advance discussions on Bilateral Investment Treaty and Free Trade Agreement.

Significance of the Visit:

• Symbolically reversed the “India Out” rhetoric under Muizzu’s earlier stance.

• Reaffirmed India’s role as first responder and development partner.

• Anchored India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

• Strengthened people-to-people ties through housing, education, and health cooperation.

Historical Background:

• India was first to recognize Maldives’ independence in 1965.

• In 1988, India averted a coup in Maldives under Operation Cactus.

• Assistance during 2004 Tsunami, 2014 Malé water crisis, and COVID-19 pandemic elevated India’s stature as a reliable partner.

Key Areas of Cooperation:

• Defence & Security:

• Joint exercises: Ekuverin, Ekatha, Dosti. Projects: MNDF Training Centre, Coastal Radar System, Ekatha Harbour, UTF Harbour. India has trained over 1,500 MNDF officers and provided extensive MEDEVAC and HADR support.

• Joint exercises: Ekuverin, Ekatha, Dosti.

• Projects: MNDF Training Centre, Coastal Radar System, Ekatha Harbour, UTF Harbour.

• India has trained over 1,500 MNDF officers and provided extensive MEDEVAC and HADR support.

• Development Assistance:

• Major projects: Greater Malé Connectivity, Hanimaadhoo Airport, MIFCO cold storage, IGMH hospital. 47 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) implemented.

• Major projects: Greater Malé Connectivity, Hanimaadhoo Airport, MIFCO cold storage, IGMH hospital.

• 47 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) implemented.

• Trade & Investment:

• India is Maldives’ largest trading partner (2023) and bilateral trade at $548 million (2023). Key exports: food, medicine, construction materials. Key imports: scrap metal, seafood. UPI and RuPay integration to boost fintech connectivity.

• India is Maldives’ largest trading partner (2023) and bilateral trade at $548 million (2023).

• Key exports: food, medicine, construction materials.

• Key imports: scrap metal, seafood.

• UPI and RuPay integration to boost fintech connectivity.

• Tourism & Culture:

• India was top tourist source in 2021–23, with over 2 lakh arrivals annually. Open skies agreement signed to promote connectivity.

• India was top tourist source in 2021–23, with over 2 lakh arrivals annually.

• Open skies agreement signed to promote connectivity.

• Education & HRD:

• ICCR scholarships, ITEC training, teacher exchange. New institutions: Police College, Technical Institutes, Malé ICT projects.

• ICCR scholarships, ITEC training, teacher exchange.

• New institutions: Police College, Technical Institutes, Malé ICT projects.

Challenges & Differences:

• “India Out” Sentiment: The nationalist campaign led by President Muizzu earlier strained bilateral trust, portraying Indian military presence as a threat to sovereignty.

• Chinese Economic Leverage: Maldives’ rising debt to China through BRI-linked projects creates strategic concerns for India over long-term influence in the region.

• Sovereignty Sensitivities: Indian-backed defence infrastructure and troop presence are occasionally viewed by Maldivian opposition as interference in internal affairs.

• Political Instability in Maldives: Frequent leadership changes and coalition politics often shift the Maldives’ foreign policy priorities, affecting bilateral consistency.

• Delayed Project Execution: Administrative hurdles and political resistance in Maldives have slowed Indian-funded infrastructure projects, affecting credibility and local sentiment.

Way Forward:

• Ensure project delivery timelines to build long-term credibility.

• Institutionalise economic and security dialogues to handle geopolitical shifts.

• Deepen blue economy and climate resilience collaboration.

• Promote youth, education, and civil society exchanges to sustain trust.

• Align Maldives more closely with Indo-Pacific stability frameworks.

Conclusion:

India–Maldives ties have evolved into a robust developmental and strategic partnership. PM Modi’s 2025 visit reinforced India’s commitment to the Maldives’ growth and regional stability. Sustained diplomacy, trust-building, and people-centric initiatives will define the next chapter.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025 GS Paper 3:

Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025

Syllabus: Environment

Source: BT

Context: The Ministry of Communications released the Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025, proposing incentives for using Indian-made telecom equipment.

About Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025:

What is Draft NTP 2025?

A forward-looking national policy framework by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) that outlines India’s telecom priorities from 2025 to 2030, focusing on Atmanirbhar Bharat, universal access, and future technologies like 6G and quantum communication.

Key Features of Draft NTP 2025:

• Domestic Equipment Push

• Proposes incentives for operators using locally made telecom gear to support Indian firms like Tejas Networks and HFCL. Aims to substitute 50% of telecom imports through homegrown manufacturing.

• Proposes incentives for operators using locally made telecom gear to support Indian firms like Tejas Networks and HFCL.

• Aims to substitute 50% of telecom imports through homegrown manufacturing.

• R&D and IP Innovation:

• Plans to double India’s telecom R&D expenditure, support 500 tech startups, and capture 10% of global 6G-related IPRs. Emphasizes blended finance, fund-of-fund models to promote innovation.

• Plans to double India’s telecom R&D expenditure, support 500 tech startups, and capture 10% of global 6G-related IPRs.

• Emphasizes blended finance, fund-of-fund models to promote innovation.

• Infrastructure & Universal Connectivity:

• Targets 100% 4G coverage and 90% 5G coverage by 2030. Increase tower fiberization from 46% to 80% and fully connect all gram panchayats via BharatNet with 98% uptime. Expand fixed-line broadband to 100 million households and deploy 1 million public Wi-Fi hotspots.

• Targets 100% 4G coverage and 90% 5G coverage by 2030.

• Increase tower fiberization from 46% to 80% and fully connect all gram panchayats via BharatNet with 98% uptime.

• Expand fixed-line broadband to 100 million households and deploy 1 million public Wi-Fi hotspots.

• Employment and Skill Development:

• Plans to create 1 million new jobs and upskill 1 million workers in emerging telecom areas.

• Export and Investment Targets:

• Double exports of telecom products and services. Achieve ₹1 trillion annual investments in the telecom sector.

• Double exports of telecom products and services.

• Achieve ₹1 trillion annual investments in the telecom sector.

• Secure and Trusted Networks:

• Proposes equipment audits to weed out non-trusted telecom hardware, with a focus on national security via quantum-secure systems.

• Green Telecom Goals:

• Set to cut the sector’s carbon footprint by 30%, emphasizing sustainable deployment and clean energy integration.

Significance of the Policy:

• Atmanirbhar Telecom Boost: Revives focus on Make-in-India in telecom equipment, reducing reliance on Chinese imports.

• Bridging Digital Divide: Addresses rural-urban digital gap via aggressive fiberization and public Wi-Fi expansion.

• Revamping PLI Shortcomings: Acknowledges past lapses in PLI disbursements and attempts corrective action through demand generation and clearer policy alignment.

• Global Tech Race Readiness: Positions India for 6G leadership, leveraging startups and IP development.

• Holistic Sectoral Reform: Envisions synergy across connectivity, innovation, investment, and national security.

Conclusion:

The Draft NTP 2025 marks a strategic shift toward self-reliance, innovation, and secure telecom infrastructure. By addressing past policy gaps and setting bold targets, it aims to transform India into a global telecom hub. Its success, however, hinges on timely execution and ecosystem alignment.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

A Grove Revived – The Story of Sirawas

Anecdote: Fifteen years ago, in the dusty village of Sirawas in Rajasthan’s Alwar district, a sacred grove named Chudasidh Adavad stood lifeless—its soil cracked, its trees gone, its animals starving. The elders remembered the grove not as ruin, but as divine land—a place that once cradled two flowing streams, shaded livestock under native trees, and offered quiet refuge to birds, herders, and gods alike.

But when hope had thinned, a quiet movement stirred. With no formal mandate, just faith and memory, villagers joined hands with the local NGO KRAPAVIS. They laid boulders to hold the soil, planted native grasses, and carved small ponds where there was only dust. They offered not just effort but devotion, treating the grove not as land—but as a living ancestor. Women led, children planted, and farmers carved canals with the conviction that “a forest gives more than any one of us ever can.”

Today, Chudasidh Adavad stands resurrected. Over 3,400 native trees breathe life into the grove. 2,000 animals graze here, water now flows again through small check dams, and the once-abandoned grove sings with peacocks, robins, hill birds, and the quiet footsteps of goat herders at dawn. The people of Sirawas did not wait for a scheme. They revived not just a forest—but a way of life rooted in dignity, devotion, and collective resilience. This small miracle is now rippling across villages in Alwar, proving that when communities believe in their land, even a barren forest can be born again.

Relevance in UPSC exam syllabus:

• Essay Paper:

• Themes: “The silent strength of community action”, “Valuing nature through culture”, “Local solutions to global problems” The anecdote exemplifies how grassroots initiatives, cultural reverence, and ecological awareness converge to solve complex environmental and social problems.

• Themes: “The silent strength of community action”, “Valuing nature through culture”, “Local solutions to global problems”

• The anecdote exemplifies how grassroots initiatives, cultural reverence, and ecological awareness converge to solve complex environmental and social problems.

• GS Paper III: Environment & Ecology, Disaster Management, and Agriculture Community Conservation: A grassroots model for forest and pastureland revival aiding afforestation, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Agro-Ecological Synergy: Restored water and native grasses support sustainable livestock-based farming. Governance Gap: Highlights need for legal recognition of orans under forest/revenue laws in line with SC directives.

• Community Conservation: A grassroots model for forest and pastureland revival aiding afforestation, biodiversity, and climate resilience.

• Agro-Ecological Synergy: Restored water and native grasses support sustainable livestock-based farming.

• Governance Gap: Highlights need for legal recognition of orans under forest/revenue laws in line with SC directives.

• GS Paper IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude Environmental Stewardship: Preserved and nurtured common heritage without legal compulsion. Ethical Themes: Custodianship vs. Exploitation, Tradition as a tool for sustainability and Equity in access to common resources.

• Environmental Stewardship: Preserved and nurtured common heritage without legal compulsion.

• Ethical Themes: Custodianship vs. Exploitation, Tradition as a tool for sustainability and Equity in access to common resources.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car

Source: THB

Context: India successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai.

• This move is part of the government’s larger vision to introduce 35 hydrogen trains under the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ scheme.

About Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car:

• What is a Hydrogen Train? A hydrogen train is powered by hydrogen fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water and heat.

• A hydrogen train is powered by hydrogen fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water and heat.

• Developed By: Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, under Indian Railways, with technical oversight from Northern Railways.

• Objective: To replace diesel locomotives with eco-friendly hydrogen alternatives, especially on heritage and non-electrified routes, and reduce railways’ carbon footprint by 2030.

• How It Works? Hydrogen fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity to power traction motors. Batteries store excess energy, and regenerative braking enhances efficiency.

• Hydrogen fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity to power traction motors. Batteries store excess energy, and regenerative braking enhances efficiency.

• Key Features:

• Power Capacity: 1200 HP — world’s most powerful hydrogen train engine. Coach Configuration: 10-car rake vs. global average of 5. Emissions: Zero-emission and produces only water vapour. Cost Efficiency: ₹80 crore/train and ₹70 crore/route for infrastructure. Pilot Route: Jind–Sonipat (Haryana) selected for initial operations.

• Power Capacity: 1200 HP — world’s most powerful hydrogen train engine.

• Coach Configuration: 10-car rake vs. global average of 5.

• Emissions: Zero-emission and produces only water vapour.

• Cost Efficiency: ₹80 crore/train and ₹70 crore/route for infrastructure.

• Pilot Route: Jind–Sonipat (Haryana) selected for initial operations.

• Significance:

• Global Leadership: Puts India among global pioneers in hydrogen rail technology. Net-Zero Vision: Supports Indian Railways’ 2030 decarbonisation target. Green Economy Push: Can extend to trucks, tugboats, and heavy industry.

• Global Leadership: Puts India among global pioneers in hydrogen rail technology.

• Net-Zero Vision: Supports Indian Railways’ 2030 decarbonisation target.

• Green Economy Push: Can extend to trucks, tugboats, and heavy industry.

Black Hole GRS 1915+105

Source: NIE

Context: ISRO-led scientists observed rapid X-ray flickers from black hole GRS 1915+105 and published findings in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

• AstroSat data revealed oscillating plasma corona linked to high-frequency Quasi-periodic Oscillations (QPOs).

About Black Hole GRS 1915+105:

• What is GRS 1915+105? It is a stellar-mass black hole located in a binary system, paired with a normal star, and known for highly variable X-ray emissions.

• It is a stellar-mass black hole located in a binary system, paired with a normal star, and known for highly variable X-ray emissions.

• Discovered By: Detected in 1992 by the WATCH all-sky monitor on the Granat

• Located In: Approximately 28,000 light-years from Earth in the constellation Aquila, within the Milky Way galaxy.

• Key Features:

• Mass: ~12 times that of the Sun. High Variability: Shows alternating X-ray dips and flares every few hundred seconds. High Frequency QPOs Detected: Rapid flickers at 70 Hz (Quasi-periodic Oscillations) during bright phases. Plasma Corona: Oscillates between compact-hot and expanded-cool states, driving X-ray variability. Accretion Process: Sucks in material from companion star forming a swirling accretion disk (1–10 million °C) and ultra-hot corona (~100 million °C).

• Mass: ~12 times that of the Sun.

• High Variability: Shows alternating X-ray dips and flares every few hundred seconds.

• High Frequency QPOs Detected: Rapid flickers at 70 Hz (Quasi-periodic Oscillations) during bright phases.

• Plasma Corona: Oscillates between compact-hot and expanded-cool states, driving X-ray variability.

• Accretion Process: Sucks in material from companion star forming a swirling accretion disk (1–10 million °C) and ultra-hot corona (~100 million °C).

• Significance:

• AstroSat Breakthrough: First Indian observatory to capture dynamic corona behaviour in real time. Theoretical Advancement: Supports the idea that high-frequency X-ray flickers originate from compact corona around black holes. Astrophysics Insight: Helps decode the physical environment near event horizons where gravity is extreme.

• AstroSat Breakthrough: First Indian observatory to capture dynamic corona behaviour in real time.

• Theoretical Advancement: Supports the idea that high-frequency X-ray flickers originate from compact corona around black holes.

• Astrophysics Insight: Helps decode the physical environment near event horizons where gravity is extreme.

Kargil Vijay Diwas

Source: LM

Context: India commemorates the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas (26 July) to honour the Indian Armed Forces’ heroic victory in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistani intruders.

About Kargil Vijay Diwas:

• What is Kargil Vijay Diwas?

• Observed annually on 26 July, it marks the successful culmination of Operation Vijay when India reclaimed all occupied positions along the Kargil sector. It is a national tribute to the bravery, resilience, and martyrdom of Indian soldiers who defended sovereignty under extreme conditions.

• Observed annually on 26 July, it marks the successful culmination of Operation Vijay when India reclaimed all occupied positions along the Kargil sector.

• It is a national tribute to the bravery, resilience, and martyrdom of Indian soldiers who defended sovereignty under extreme conditions.

• Background of the 1999 Kargil War:

• Trigger for the Conflict:

• Pakistani troops and militants illegally infiltrated Indian territory in the Dras, Batalik, and Kaksar sectors of Ladakh in May 1999. Their aim: sever NH-1A, India’s critical highway linking Srinagar to Leh.

• Pakistani troops and militants illegally infiltrated Indian territory in the Dras, Batalik, and Kaksar sectors of Ladakh in May 1999.

• Their aim: sever NH-1A, India’s critical highway linking Srinagar to Leh.

• India’s Military Response: Operation Vijay

• Launched in May 1999 as a counter-offensive to reclaim the heights. Indian Army soldiers fought at 16,000+ feet, braving sub-zero temperatures, low oxygen, and constant enemy fire. Air Power Used: IAF launched Operation Safed Sagar, deploying Mirage-2000s for high-altitude strikes. The war saw no crossing of the Line of Control, upholding India’s commitment to international law.

• Launched in May 1999 as a counter-offensive to reclaim the heights.

• Indian Army soldiers fought at 16,000+ feet, braving sub-zero temperatures, low oxygen, and constant enemy fire.

• Air Power Used: IAF launched Operation Safed Sagar, deploying Mirage-2000s for high-altitude strikes.

• The war saw no crossing of the Line of Control, upholding India’s commitment to international law.

• Major Battlefronts Reclaimed:

• Tololing, Tiger Hill, Point 4875, Khalubar Ridge, and Batalik sector became historic victory symbols.

• Results of the Kargil War:

• Victory Declared: By 26 July 1999, all positions were reclaimed. Casualties: 545 Indian soldiers martyred. Global Impact: India earned international praise for restraint and military professionalism.

• Victory Declared: By 26 July 1999, all positions were reclaimed.

• Casualties: 545 Indian soldiers martyred.

• Global Impact: India earned international praise for restraint and military professionalism.

• Significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas:

• National Security Lessons: Prompted reforms like the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and boost to joint command structures. Defence Modernisation: Spurred investments in mountain warfare gear, surveillance, and indigenous defence tech. Civil-Military Integration: Rekindled public trust in the Indian Army and heroes became household names.

• National Security Lessons: Prompted reforms like the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and boost to joint command structures.

• Defence Modernisation: Spurred investments in mountain warfare gear, surveillance, and indigenous defence tech.

• Civil-Military Integration: Rekindled public trust in the Indian Army and heroes became household names.

Rajendra Chola I

Source: IE

Context: India is commemorating 1,000 years of Rajendra Chola I’s Southeast Asian expedition through cultural events and heritage projects.

About Rajendra Chola I:

• Who he was? Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE) was the most powerful emperor of the Chola dynasty, succeeding his father Rajaraja Chola I. He expanded the Chola Empire from South India to the Ganga in the north and deep into Southeast Asia through a historic naval expedition in 1025 CE.

• Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE) was the most powerful emperor of the Chola dynasty, succeeding his father Rajaraja Chola I. He expanded the Chola Empire from South India to the Ganga in the north and deep into Southeast Asia through a historic naval expedition in 1025 CE.

• Historical Background:

• Son of Rajaraja Chola I, he ruled the Chola Empire from 1014 to 1044 CE. Inherited a strong military state and expanded it into a maritime empire. Established the capital Gangaikonda Cholapuram to mark his conquest of northern India.

• Son of Rajaraja Chola I, he ruled the Chola Empire from 1014 to 1044 CE.

• Inherited a strong military state and expanded it into a maritime empire.

• Established the capital Gangaikonda Cholapuram to mark his conquest of northern India.

• Achievements and Contributions: Military & Maritime Expansion:

• Military & Maritime Expansion:

• Led a naval expedition in 1025 CE to defeat the Srivijaya empire, asserting trade control over the Malacca Strait. Extended Chola influence across India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Southeast Asia including Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia. Defeated the Pala dynasty of Bengal, symbolized by the title “Gangaikondachola” (Conqueror of the Ganga).

• Led a naval expedition in 1025 CE to defeat the Srivijaya empire, asserting trade control over the Malacca Strait.

• Extended Chola influence across India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Southeast Asia including Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia.

• Defeated the Pala dynasty of Bengal, symbolized by the title “Gangaikondachola” (Conqueror of the Ganga).

• Art & Architecture:

• Built the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, a Dravidian architectural marvel similar to the Brihadeeswara Temple. Promoted stone inscription records, temple murals, and bronze sculpture traditions. The temple reflects Chola craftsmanship and urban planning precision.

• Built the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, a Dravidian architectural marvel similar to the Brihadeeswara Temple.

• Promoted stone inscription records, temple murals, and bronze sculpture traditions.

• The temple reflects Chola craftsmanship and urban planning precision.

• Engineering & Water Management:

• Constructed the Cholagangam Tank, a man-made lake with advanced sluice and sediment control—irrigating over 1,500 acres. The tank system reflected ecological foresight and hydraulic engineering expertise.

• Constructed the Cholagangam Tank, a man-made lake with advanced sluice and sediment control—irrigating over 1,500 acres.

• The tank system reflected ecological foresight and hydraulic engineering expertise.

• Cultural Diplomacy & Trade:

• Supported merchant guilds like Manigramam and Ayyavole, enabling trade with Southeast Asian ports. Encouraged Tamil diaspora settlement, temple-building, and local alliances abroad—building soft power centuries before the modern concept emerged.

• Supported merchant guilds like Manigramam and Ayyavole, enabling trade with Southeast Asian ports.

• Encouraged Tamil diaspora settlement, temple-building, and local alliances abroad—building soft power centuries before the modern concept emerged.

• Administrative Legacy:

• Strengthened village assemblies (sabhas) and temple-based revenue systems. Codified land grants, irrigation records, and social welfare measures through detailed inscriptions.

• Strengthened village assemblies (sabhas) and temple-based revenue systems.

• Codified land grants, irrigation records, and social welfare measures through detailed inscriptions.

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

Source: DC

Context: The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has crossed 8 crore enrolments as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, with 39 lakh new subscribers added in the current financial year.

About Atal Pension Yojana (APY):

Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is a government-backed pension scheme aimed at providing old-age income security to workers in the unorganised sector. It ensures a guaranteed monthly pension post-retirement and is administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

Scheme Overview:

• Launched On: 9th May 2015

• Administered By: PFRDA

• Target Group: Workers in the unorganised sector.

• Nature: Voluntary and contributory.

• Pension Range: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000/month after age 60.

• Guarantee: Central Government guarantees the minimum pension.

Objective of APY:

• To build a universal social security system.

• To provide financial stability during old age.

• To encourage long-term savings among informal sector workers.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Indian citizen, aged between 18–40 years.

• Must hold a savings or post office bank account.

• Aadhaar and mobile number optional but recommended for updates.

• Government co-contribution only for non-taxpayers and those not under other statutory social security schemes.

Key Features of APY:

• Guaranteed Minimum Pension: Assured pension of ₹1,000–₹5,000 based on contribution and entry age.

• Flexible Contribution Mode: Contributions can be made monthly, quarterly, or half-yearly via auto-debit from a savings account.

• Government Co-Contribution (2015–2020): GoI contributed 50% of subscriber’s input (up to ₹1,000/year) for eligible early joiners.

• Return Assurance: If actual returns fall short of the guaranteed pension, the shortfall is covered by GoI.

• Spouse and Nominee Benefits: Pension continues to spouse after subscriber’s death and corpus is transferred to nominee on death of both.

• Exit Rules: Full pension starts at age 60 and early exit allowed with limited refund. In case of death before 60, spouse can continue or withdraw corpus.

• Full pension starts at age 60 and early exit allowed with limited refund.

• In case of death before 60, spouse can continue or withdraw corpus.

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Source: PIB

Context: The PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY) will come into effect from 1st August 2025 to incentivize large-scale job creation, replacing the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme.

About PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

• What it is? A national employment-linked incentive scheme to promote job creation in formal sectors, especially manufacturing, as part of the Viksit Bharat initiative.

• A national employment-linked incentive scheme to promote job creation in formal sectors, especially manufacturing, as part of the Viksit Bharat initiative.

• Launch Date: Effective from 1st August 2025

• Administered By: Ministry of Labour and Employment

• Total Outlay: ₹99,446 crore

• Implementation Period: 2025–2027

• Target: Over 3.5 crore new jobs, including 1.92 crore first-time workers

• Objective:

• To promote inclusive and sustainable job creation. To incentivize employers for hiring new workers, especially in manufacturing. To support first-time employees entering the formal workforce

• To promote inclusive and sustainable job creation.

• To incentivize employers for hiring new workers, especially in manufacturing.

• To support first-time employees entering the formal workforce

• Key Features of PM-VBRY: Part A: Incentive for First-Time Employees

• Part A: Incentive for First-Time Employees

• Eligibility: New EPFO-registered employees with monthly salaries up to ₹1 lakh. Incentive: One-month EPF wage (up to ₹15,000), paid in two instalments: 1st instalment: After 6 months of service 2nd instalment: After 12 months and completion of financial literacy training Saving Habit Promotion: Part of the incentive will be locked in a deposit account for future withdrawal.

• Eligibility: New EPFO-registered employees with monthly salaries up to ₹1 lakh.

• Incentive: One-month EPF wage (up to ₹15,000), paid in two instalments: 1st instalment: After 6 months of service 2nd instalment: After 12 months and completion of financial literacy training

• 1st instalment: After 6 months of service

• 2nd instalment: After 12 months and completion of financial literacy training

• Saving Habit Promotion: Part of the incentive will be locked in a deposit account for future withdrawal.

• Part B: Incentive for Employers

• Focus Sector: All sectors, with special focus on manufacturing Employer Eligibility: EPFO-registered entities hiring: 2 or more additional employees (if existing staff <50) 5 or more (if staff ≥50) Wage-based Incentive (per employee per month): ₹1,000 for wages ≤ ₹10,000 ₹2,000 for ₹10,001–₹20,000 ₹3,000 for ₹20,001–₹1,00,000 Tenure: 2 years for all sectors; extended to 4 years for manufacturing

• Focus Sector: All sectors, with special focus on manufacturing

• Employer Eligibility: EPFO-registered entities hiring: 2 or more additional employees (if existing staff <50) 5 or more (if staff ≥50)

• 2 or more additional employees (if existing staff <50)

• 5 or more (if staff ≥50)

• Wage-based Incentive (per employee per month): ₹1,000 for wages ≤ ₹10,000 ₹2,000 for ₹10,001–₹20,000 ₹3,000 for ₹20,001–₹1,00,000

• ₹1,000 for wages ≤ ₹10,000

• ₹2,000 for ₹10,001–₹20,000

• ₹3,000 for ₹20,001–₹1,00,000

• Tenure: 2 years for all sectors; extended to 4 years for manufacturing

• Payment Mechanism:

• First-Time Employees: Paid via DBT using Aadhar Bridge Payment System (ABPS). Employers: Direct payment to PAN-linked bank accounts.

• First-Time Employees: Paid via DBT using Aadhar Bridge Payment System (ABPS).

• Employers: Direct payment to PAN-linked bank accounts.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025 Mapping:

France recognise Palestine Statehood

Source: TOI

Context: France has formally announced its decision to recognise Palestinian statehood, becoming the first G7 country to do so amid escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza.

About France recognise Palestine Statehood:

• Concept and Meaning

• Recognition of Palestine means diplomatic acknowledgment of Palestine as a sovereign state with rights under international law. It affirms Palestine’s right to self-determination, independence, and membership in global institutions like the UN.

• Recognition of Palestine means diplomatic acknowledgment of Palestine as a sovereign state with rights under international law.

• It affirms Palestine’s right to self-determination, independence, and membership in global institutions like the UN.

• Countries Recognising Palestine:

• As of now, 144 of 193 UN member states recognise Palestine, including India, Russia, China, and most of the Global South. Recent recognitions include Spain, Ireland, Norway, and now France, who seek to revive the two-state solution framework. Sweden, Cyprus, and several former Eastern Bloc EU nations also extend recognition.

• As of now, 144 of 193 UN member states recognise Palestine, including India, Russia, China, and most of the Global South.

• Recent recognitions include Spain, Ireland, Norway, and now France, who seek to revive the two-state solution framework.

• Sweden, Cyprus, and several former Eastern Bloc EU nations also extend recognition.

• Why is France Recognising Now?

• Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Over 2 million Gazans face man-made starvation, prompting calls for justice and statehood recognition. Two-State Solution Revival: France aims to keep the peace process alive, especially before hosting a UN conference with Saudi Arabia. Strategic Timing: The decision precedes France’s presentation at the upcoming UN General Assembly, adding multilateral weight.

• Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Over 2 million Gazans face man-made starvation, prompting calls for justice and statehood recognition.

• Two-State Solution Revival: France aims to keep the peace process alive, especially before hosting a UN conference with Saudi Arabia.

• Strategic Timing: The decision precedes France’s presentation at the upcoming UN General Assembly, adding multilateral weight.

About Palestine:

• Geographic Overview:

• Region: Middle East. Territories: West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem (disputed). Neighbours: Israel (east and west), Egypt (southwest), Jordan (east), Mediterranean Sea.

• Region: Middle East.

• Territories: West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem (disputed).

• Neighbours: Israel (east and west), Egypt (southwest), Jordan (east), Mediterranean Sea.

• Historical Background:

• Pre-1947: Under British Mandate since WWI and Balfour Declaration (1917) supported a Jewish homeland. 1947 Partition Plan: UN proposed two states — one Jewish, one Arab and only Israel was realized. 1948–67 Wars: Led to Israel occupying large areas including the West Bank and Gaza. 1988: Palestine declared independence in Algiers and later gained UN observer status in 2012. 2024–25 Developments: ICJ deemed Israeli occupation unlawful and Palestine granted expanded rights at the UN.

• Pre-1947: Under British Mandate since WWI and Balfour Declaration (1917) supported a Jewish homeland.

• 1947 Partition Plan: UN proposed two states — one Jewish, one Arab and only Israel was realized.

• 1948–67 Wars: Led to Israel occupying large areas including the West Bank and Gaza.

• 1988: Palestine declared independence in Algiers and later gained UN observer status in 2012.

• 2024–25 Developments: ICJ deemed Israeli occupation unlawful and Palestine granted expanded rights at the UN.

• Key Features:

• Political Division: Governed by the Palestinian Authority (West Bank) and Hamas (Gaza). Conflict Hotspot: Frequent hostilities with Israel over land, resources, and governance. UN Role: Supports self-determination, inalienable rights, and peace under Resolution 242 (1967).

• Political Division: Governed by the Palestinian Authority (West Bank) and Hamas (Gaza).

• Conflict Hotspot: Frequent hostilities with Israel over land, resources, and governance.

• UN Role: Supports self-determination, inalienable rights, and peace under Resolution 242 (1967).

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Table of Contents

GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July (2025)

India-Maldives Relations

GS Paper 3:

Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

A Grove Revived – The Story of Sirawas

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car

Black Hole GRS 1915+105

Kargil Vijay Diwas

Rajendra Chola I

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Mapping:

France recognise Palestine Statehood

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 26 July 2025

India-Maldives Relations

Draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025

A Grove Revived – The Story of Sirawas

Hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car

Black Hole GRS 1915+105

Kargil Vijay Diwas

Rajendra Chola I

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

France recognise Palestine Statehood