UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 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 1 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July (2025)

• Legacy of Chola

Legacy of Chola

GS Paper 3:

• Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• Haridwar Stampede

Haridwar Stampede

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• Sohrai Art

Sohrai Art

• India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation

India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation

• Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

• Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA)

Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA)

• Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

• Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025

Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025

Mapping:

• Kalu River

Kalu River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025

#### GS Paper 1:

Legacy of Chola

Syllabus: History

Source: TH

Context: Prime Minister of India during the birth anniversary of Rajendra Chola I at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, highlighted the Chola dynasty’s contributions to India’s maritime strength, democratic systems, and cultural unity.

• He announced statues of Rajendra and Rajaraja Chola and launched a commemorative coin.

About Legacy of Chola:

Who Were the Cholas?

• The Cholas were one of the longest-ruling dynasties in South India, flourishing between the 9th to 13th century CE.

• Their empire stretched across present-day Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and overseas territories like Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia

Key Chola Rulers and Their Contributions:

• Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE): Strengthened naval power, built the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, and expanded the empire into Sri Lanka.

• Strengthened naval power, built the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, and expanded the empire into Sri Lanka.

• Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE): Led expeditions to the Ganga River, built Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and extended influence to Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Maldives.

• Led expeditions to the Ganga River, built Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and extended influence to Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Maldives.

• Kulottunga Chola I: Focused on internal administration and revenue reforms, continuing the legacy of stability.

• Focused on internal administration and revenue reforms, continuing the legacy of stability.

Legacy of the Chola Dynasty:

• Political & Administrative Legacy:

• Kudavolai System: A unique electoral practice for choosing local representatives using palm leaf ballots (Kudavolai), marking the beginning of self-governance in rural India. E.g. Uthiramerur inscriptions provide detailed rules for local governance and elections. Decentralised Village Administration: Power was devolved to Ur, Sabha, and Nagaram assemblies for land management, tax collection, and judicial functions, setting a precedent for grassroots democracy. Efficient Bureaucracy: Maintained a hierarchical administrative structure with clear job definitions — from ministers (Amatyas) to village accountants. Regular land surveys and revenue records (like ‘Chola inscriptions’) were maintained.

• Decentralised Village Administration: Power was devolved to Ur, Sabha, and Nagaram assemblies for land management, tax collection, and judicial functions, setting a precedent for grassroots democracy.

• Efficient Bureaucracy: Maintained a hierarchical administrative structure with clear job definitions — from ministers (Amatyas) to village accountants. Regular land surveys and revenue records (like ‘Chola inscriptions’) were maintained.

• Economic & Trade Networks:

• Maritime Trade Expansion: Developed strong trade links with Southeast Asia (Srivijaya), China (Song Dynasty), and Arab regions. Chola ports like Poompuhar and Nagapattinam served as global trading hubs. State-Supported Commerce: State granted charters to merchant guilds like Manigramam and Ayyavole 500, encouraging overseas commerce and internal trade. Irrigation & Agricultural Reforms: Built large-scale tanks like Cholagangam at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, canals, and embankments, increasing agricultural surplus and sustaining temple economies.

• State-Supported Commerce: State granted charters to merchant guilds like Manigramam and Ayyavole 500, encouraging overseas commerce and internal trade.

• Irrigation & Agricultural Reforms: Built large-scale tanks like Cholagangam at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, canals, and embankments, increasing agricultural surplus and sustaining temple economies.

• Foreign Policy & Maritime Power:

• Naval Expeditions: Rajendra Chola, I led naval campaigns across the Bay of Bengal to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and the Srivijaya kingdom (Sumatra) — one of the earliest examples of Indian maritime assertion. Cultural Hegemony through Trade and Temples: Chola influence is visible in Southeast Asian temples like Angkor Wat (Cambodia) and Borobudur (Indonesia), spread via trade and temple-building traditions. Diplomatic Relations: Maintained embassies and diplomatic exchanges with China; Chinese chronicles record the arrival of Chola envoys in the Song court.

• Cultural Hegemony through Trade and Temples: Chola influence is visible in Southeast Asian temples like Angkor Wat (Cambodia) and Borobudur (Indonesia), spread via trade and temple-building traditions.

• Diplomatic Relations: Maintained embassies and diplomatic exchanges with China; Chinese chronicles record the arrival of Chola envoys in the Song court.

• Cultural & Religious Syncretism:

• Religious Patronage: Supported both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, facilitating peaceful coexistence and growth of temples and mathas across the empire.

E.g. Shaiva temples like Brihadisvara and Vishnu temples like Veeranarayana (Tirumangai Alvar’s site).

• Temple as Socio-Cultural Centre: Temples doubled as schools (ghatikas), granaries, judicial centres, and repositories of art and dance. They were fully integrated into public life. Literary Flourishing: Supported Tamil poets and scholars like Kamban (Ramavataram), Ottakoothar, Jayamkondar, and Sekkizhar. Their works enriched both religious and secular Tamil literature.

• Temple as Socio-Cultural Centre: Temples doubled as schools (ghatikas), granaries, judicial centres, and repositories of art and dance. They were fully integrated into public life.

• Literary Flourishing: Supported Tamil poets and scholars like Kamban (Ramavataram), Ottakoothar, Jayamkondar, and Sekkizhar. Their works enriched both religious and secular Tamil literature.

• Art & Architecture:

• Dravidian Temple Architecture: Refined the South Indian temple structure with monumental vimanas (towering sanctums), pillared mandapas, and axial alignment. E.g. Brihadisvara Temple (Thanjavur) and Gangaikonda Cholapuram exemplify Chola architectural zenith. Bronze Sculpture Excellence: Perfected the technique of lost-wax bronze casting. The Chola Nataraja (cosmic dance of Shiva) remains an iconic masterpiece of Indian art. Architectural Innovation: Use of granite, axial temple layouts, precision in iconometry (Shilpa Shastra), and intricate carvings set the model for later South Indian dynasties like Vijayanagar.

• Bronze Sculpture Excellence: Perfected the technique of lost-wax bronze casting. The Chola Nataraja (cosmic dance of Shiva) remains an iconic masterpiece of Indian art.

• Architectural Innovation: Use of granite, axial temple layouts, precision in iconometry (Shilpa Shastra), and intricate carvings set the model for later South Indian dynasties like Vijayanagar.

Decline of the Cholas:

• After 13th century, they declined due to internal conflicts, Pandya resurgence, and foreign invasions (Delhi Sultanate).

• Last remnants fell under the influence of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Relevance to Modern India

• Decentralised Governance: Their village panchayat model mirrors modern grassroots democracy.

• Naval Strategy: Acknowledged for maritime dominance — shaping India’s Blue Economy outlook today.

• Cultural Diplomacy: Their civilisational links with Southeast Asia reinforce Act East Policy.

• Heritage Conservation: Temples like Brihadisvara are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• National Pride: Revival of Chola legacy promotes cultural nationalism and unity in diversity.

Conclusion:

The Chola dynasty epitomises a golden age of governance, maritime excellence, and cultural vibrance. Their administrative foresight and artistic legacy offer India a historical blueprint to harmonise modern development with civilisational pride.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025 GS Paper 3:

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Syllabus: Disaster Management

Source: TH

Context: Nepal recently witnessed multiple catastrophic GLOF events, including one on July 8, 2025, that washed away a key China-built friendship bridge and crippled hydropower projects.

• This has raised alarm across the Himalayan region, including India, where warming temperatures are increasing the risk of similar events in glacial lake belts of Sikkim, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand.

About Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs):

What is a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)?

A GLOF is the sudden release of water from a glacial lake, often caused by the collapse of moraine or ice dams. These floods are high-velocity and high-volume, posing serious risks to life, infrastructure, and the ecosystem, particularly in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR).

Causes of GLOFs:

Natural Causes:

• Glacial Retreat and Lake Formation: Rising temperatures in the Himalayas are accelerating glacial melt, leading to formation of unstable moraine-dammed or supraglacial lakes.

E.g. India has over 7,500 glacial lakes, many above 4,500 m altitude.

• Ice or Rock Avalanches: Falling ice or rock into a glacial lake displaces water and causes waves that breach the dam.

E.g. South Lhonak lake in Sikkim (2023) was destabilized by an avalanche.

• Heavy Rainfall and Cloudbursts: Sudden, intense rains increase water volume rapidly, stressing moraine dams.

E.g. Kedarnath GLOF (2013) followed a cloudburst.

• Seismic Activity: Earthquakes can destabilize loose moraine structures, leading to dam breaches.

E.g. Uttarakhand is in Seismic Zone IV & V—highly vulnerable.

• Internal Seepage (Piping): Slow erosion from within moraine dams due to seepage weakens the dam over time.

Anthropogenic Causes:

• Unregulated Construction: Hydropower and road projects near glacial zones disturb fragile landscapes.

E.g. Teesta-III Dam was destroyed in 2023 due to lack of buffer zones.

• Climate Change: Human-induced emissions are accelerating glacial melt rates globally, increasing GLOF events.

E.g. 2023 and 2024 were the hottest years on record globally.

Types of Glacial Lakes in the Himalayas

• Supraglacial Lakes: Form on top of glaciers from meltwater. Highly unstable during summer.

E.g. Seen frequently on Tibetan side, as in the July 2024 Nepal GLOF.

• Moraine-Dammed Lakes: Form at glacier snouts, dammed by loose debris. Prone to breach due to low cohesion.

E.g. South Lhonak (Sikkim), Tsho Rolpa (Nepal).

Impacts of GLOFs:

On Human Settlements and Infrastructure:

• Loss of Life: Sudden floods can drown entire villages.

E.g. Kedarnath (2013) saw hundreds of deaths.

• Damage to Hydropower & Transport: GLOFs damage bridges, roads, dams, and disrupt energy supply.

E.g. 1200 MW Teesta-III project wiped out in 2023.

• Displacement and Livelihood Loss: Affects agriculture, homes, and leads to economic insecurity.

On Environment and Ecology:

• Riverbed Silting and Course Shifts: Excessive debris raises riverbeds and alters river flow.

E.g. Teesta riverbed has risen by several metres post-2023 GLOF.

• Habitat Disruption: Biodiversity in alpine and riparian zones gets fragmented or destroyed.

• Long-Term Ecosystem Changes: Persistent sedimentation and changing water regimes reduce ecosystem resilience.

NDMA’s 5-Point Strategy to Mitigate GLOF Risks:

• Hazard Assessment: Identified 195 high-risk glacial lakes and classified them by size, dam type, and downstream vulnerability.

• AWWS (Automated Weather & Water Stations) Installation: Automated stations in Sikkim relay real-time data every 10 minutes on rainfall, temperature, and water levels.

• Early Warning Systems (EWS): Manual alerts via ITBP in remote zones; digital multilingual alerts piloted in Uttarakhand and Arunachal.

• Engineering Interventions: Conducted bathymetry and ERT scans; built artificial channels to safely drain lake water.

• Community Involvement: Engaged locals in surveys; addressed religious sensitivities to ensure smooth implementation.

India’s Measures to Mitigate GLOF Risk:

• Institutional Mechanisms:

• NDMA’s National GLOF Programme: A $20 million initiative targeting 195 high-risk lakes, categorized into 4 risk levels. Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR): Brings together States, research institutions, and central agencies for coordinated action. 16th Finance Commission Allocation Plan (FY27–31): Scaling up GLOF mitigation as part of climate-resilient infrastructure.

• NDMA’s National GLOF Programme: A $20 million initiative targeting 195 high-risk lakes, categorized into 4 risk levels.

• Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR): Brings together States, research institutions, and central agencies for coordinated action.

• 16th Finance Commission Allocation Plan (FY27–31): Scaling up GLOF mitigation as part of climate-resilient infrastructure.

• Technological Measures:

• SAR Interferometry for Slope Monitoring: Detects micro-changes in glacier slope stability up to centimetre precision. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT): Identifies presence of ice-cores in moraine dams, a major failure risk. UAV and Bathymetric Surveys: Used to measure lake volume and surrounding terrain vulnerabilities.

• SAR Interferometry for Slope Monitoring: Detects micro-changes in glacier slope stability up to centimetre precision.

• Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT): Identifies presence of ice-cores in moraine dams, a major failure risk.

• UAV and Bathymetric Surveys: Used to measure lake volume and surrounding terrain vulnerabilities.

• Community Engagement:

• Involving Local Communities in Expeditions: Ensures cultural sensitivity and local participation in monitoring efforts. Manual Early Warning via ITBP: In areas without AWWS, ITBP acts as sentinels for danger signs. Expeditions to 40 High-Risk Lakes in 2024: multi-institutional fieldwork done in Ladakh, J&K, HP, UK, Sikkim, and Arunachal.

• Involving Local Communities in Expeditions: Ensures cultural sensitivity and local participation in monitoring efforts.

• Manual Early Warning via ITBP: In areas without AWWS, ITBP acts as sentinels for danger signs.

• Expeditions to 40 High-Risk Lakes in 2024: multi-institutional fieldwork done in Ladakh, J&K, HP, UK, Sikkim, and Arunachal.

Conclusion:

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are an escalating threat in the Indian Himalayas due to warming temperatures, seismic vulnerability, and unplanned development. India has transitioned from reactive relief to proactive risk reduction, using tech-driven monitoring and local partnerships. Long-term resilience needs sustained investment in early warning systems, cross-border data sharing, and Himalayan climate adaptation.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Haridwar Stampede

Context: Eight people died and 30 were injured in a stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple due to panic triggered by a rumour of a snapped electric line.

About Haridwar Stampede:

What Happened?

A massive crowd of devotees, including children, panicked on a stairway after a rumour about an electric wire snap, leading to a crush and stampede.

Disaster Response:

• Immediate Response:

• Alert & Mobilization:

• Local authorities (police, temple security) identify the disaster and alert emergency services (SDRF, fire brigade, medical teams).

• Quick evacuationattempts begin to prevent further casualties.

• First Aid & Triage:

• Injured prioritizedbased on severity (critical cases moved first).

• Temporary medical campsset up near the site.

• Rescue & Stabilization:

• Search & Rescue:

• SDRF/NDRF teamsclear debris, assist trapped victims.

• Crowd dispersalto avoid secondary incidents.

• Medical Emergency Handling:

• Severe cases shifted to hospitals with trauma facilities.

• Helpline numbersactivated for families to locate missing persons.

• Relief & Administration:

• Compensation & Support:

• District Magistrate (DM) declares compensationfor deceased/injured.

• Shelter & foodarranged for stranded pilgrims.

• Magisterial Inquiry Ordered:

• SDM-led committeeinvestigates cause (crowd mismanagement, rumor spread, infrastructure gaps).

• Deadline set(e.g., 15 days) for report submission.

• Long-Term Measures: Infrastructure Audit: Temple trust & govt. assessstairways, barricades, emergency exits. CCTV & AI-based crowd monitoringproposed if absent.

• Infrastructure Audit: Temple trust & govt. assessstairways, barricades, emergency exits. CCTV & AI-based crowd monitoringproposed if absent.

• Temple trust & govt. assessstairways, barricades, emergency exits.

• CCTV & AI-based crowd monitoringproposed if absent.

• Policy Reforms:

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) revisedfor major religious gatherings.

• Public awareness campaignson disaster preparedness.

Relevance for UPSC Syllabus:

• Disaster Management: Stampedes highlight poor crowd control, lack of early warning systems, and gaps in emergency response SOPs.

• Governance: Role of district administration, SDRF, and temple trusts in disaster mitigation.

• Ethics & Accountability: Need for better infrastructure, public awareness, and accountability in religious gatherings.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Sohrai Art

Source: PIB

Context: Sohrai Art from Jharkhand was spotlighted at Kala Utsav 2025 held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President of India hailed it as reflecting “the soul of India.”

About Sohrai Art:

• What is Sohrai Art?

• Sohrai is the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon tribes. It is traditionally a ritual wall painting tradition practiced by tribal communities of Jharkhand, particularly created by women on the mud walls of houses using natural pigments and bamboo twigs.

• Sohrai is the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon tribes.

• It is traditionally a ritual wall painting tradition practiced by tribal communities of Jharkhand, particularly created by women on the mud walls of houses using natural pigments and bamboo twigs.

• When it’s celebrated:

• Painted during harvest festivals, especially Diwali, to honour livestock and fertility of the land. It is both a thanksgiving ritual and a celebration of agrarian life and womanhood.

• Painted during harvest festivals, especially Diwali, to honour livestock and fertility of the land.

• It is both a thanksgiving ritual and a celebration of agrarian life and womanhood.

• Geographic Region:

• Practised across Hazaribagh, Santhal Parganas, and bordering areas of Bihar. Spread from cave art traditions to village homes across eastern India.

• Practised across Hazaribagh, Santhal Parganas, and bordering areas of Bihar.

• Spread from cave art traditions to village homes across eastern India.

• Key Features of Sohrai Art:

• Nature-Inspired Motifs: Depicts animals, birds, trees, and rural life scenes symbolizing harmony with nature. Natural Pigments: Uses earth-based colors like red ochre, white kaolin, black manganese, and yellow clay. Traditional Tools: Bamboo twigs, chewed sticks, and cloth rags are used instead of modern brushes. Women-Led Art: Entirely practiced and passed down by tribal women, reflecting feminine creativity and continuity. Ritualistic Timing: Painted during Diwali and harvest, linked to thanksgiving for livestock and agrarian prosperity.

• Nature-Inspired Motifs: Depicts animals, birds, trees, and rural life scenes symbolizing harmony with nature.

• Natural Pigments: Uses earth-based colors like red ochre, white kaolin, black manganese, and yellow clay.

• Traditional Tools: Bamboo twigs, chewed sticks, and cloth rags are used instead of modern brushes.

• Women-Led Art: Entirely practiced and passed down by tribal women, reflecting feminine creativity and continuity.

• Ritualistic Timing: Painted during Diwali and harvest, linked to thanksgiving for livestock and agrarian prosperity.

• Cultural Significance:

• Represents sustainability, spiritual ecology, and livelihood resilience. Symbolises the fusion of mythology, agriculture, and femininity. Seen as a living tradition passed orally and artistically across generations.

• Represents sustainability, spiritual ecology, and livelihood resilience.

• Symbolises the fusion of mythology, agriculture, and femininity.

• Seen as a living tradition passed orally and artistically across generations.

India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation

Source: AP

Context: India’s first private test facility for depleted heavy water upgradation has been commissioned by TEMA India Ltd in collaboration with BARC and NPCIL.

About India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation:

• What Is It?

• It is a privately-built test infrastructure for upgrading depleted heavy water, a crucial component used in Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). Developed by TEMA India Ltd under BARC’s technology transfer and a purchase order from NPCIL.

• It is a privately-built test infrastructure for upgrading depleted heavy water, a crucial component used in Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).

• Developed by TEMA India Ltd under BARC’s technology transfer and a purchase order from NPCIL.

• Location: The facility is commissioned in Mumbai, Maharashtra and is India’s first private sector plant of its kind in the nuclear domain.

• Key Features:

• Component Testing: Specializes in in-house validation of distillation columns and activated phosphor bronze modules used in PHWRs. BARC Collaboration: Developed under the guidance and tech transfer from BARC’s Chemical Engineering Group. NPCIL Integration: Modules tested here will be used in ongoing nuclear energy projects like RAPP-8, GHAVP 1–4, and KAIGA 5–6. State-of-the-Art Equipment: Enables testing of critical equipment that was earlier possible only in public-sector BARC facilities. Indigenous Manufacturing: Reduces dependency on foreign testing infrastructure and equipment.

• Component Testing: Specializes in in-house validation of distillation columns and activated phosphor bronze modules used in PHWRs.

• BARC Collaboration: Developed under the guidance and tech transfer from BARC’s Chemical Engineering Group.

• NPCIL Integration: Modules tested here will be used in ongoing nuclear energy projects like RAPP-8, GHAVP 1–4, and KAIGA 5–6.

• State-of-the-Art Equipment: Enables testing of critical equipment that was earlier possible only in public-sector BARC facilities.

• Indigenous Manufacturing: Reduces dependency on foreign testing infrastructure and equipment.

• Strategic Significance:

• Energy Security: Enhances India’s ability to meet its nuclear energy targets using domestic technology and resources. Public–Private Partnership: Sets a new benchmark for collaboration between private firms and state-run nuclear bodies. Export Potential: Builds technical competence in nuclear manufacturing that can be scaled for global markets.

• Energy Security: Enhances India’s ability to meet its nuclear energy targets using domestic technology and resources.

• Public–Private Partnership: Sets a new benchmark for collaboration between private firms and state-run nuclear bodies.

• Export Potential: Builds technical competence in nuclear manufacturing that can be scaled for global markets.

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Source: TH

Context: The tragic self-immolation of a student in Odisha, allegedly after her sexual harassment complaint was dismissed by her college’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), has triggered nationwide scrutiny.

About Internal Complaints Committee (ICC):

• What is the ICC? An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) is a mandatory institutional redressal mechanism created under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) to address complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace.

• An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) is a mandatory institutional redressal mechanism created under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) to address complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace.

• Legal Basis & Background:

• Evolved from Vishaka Guidelines (1997) by the Supreme Court, following the Bhanwari Devi case. Formalised by the POSH Act, 2013, post the Nirbhaya case. Made mandatory for all workplaces with more than 10 employees. For smaller or informal sectors, Local Complaints Committees (LCCs) operate at the district level.

• Evolved from Vishaka Guidelines (1997) by the Supreme Court, following the Bhanwari Devi case.

• Formalised by the POSH Act, 2013, post the Nirbhaya case.

• Made mandatory for all workplaces with more than 10 employees.

• For smaller or informal sectors, Local Complaints Committees (LCCs) operate at the district level.

• Objectives of the ICC:

• Prevent and redress sexual harassment at the workplace. Create a safe, inclusive, and gender-just work environment. Ensure fair and confidential grievance redressal. Empower women to report violations without fear of reprisal.

• Prevent and redress sexual harassment at the workplace.

• Create a safe, inclusive, and gender-just work environment.

• Ensure fair and confidential grievance redressal.

• Empower women to report violations without fear of reprisal.

• Key Features and Functions:

• Composition: Presided over by a senior female employee, at least half the members must be women, and one must be from an NGO or have legal/social expertise. Jurisdiction: Can receive complaints within 3 months of the incident and initiate conciliation or inquiry proceedings. Quasi-judicial Powers: Can summon witnesses, gather evidence, and recommend disciplinary or legal action. Timely Inquiry: Must complete inquiry within 90 days, and submit recommendations within 10 days thereafter. Confidentiality Mandate: All proceedings, identities, and outcomes are confidential under Section 16 of the Act.

• Composition: Presided over by a senior female employee, at least half the members must be women, and one must be from an NGO or have legal/social expertise.

• Jurisdiction: Can receive complaints within 3 months of the incident and initiate conciliation or inquiry proceedings.

• Quasi-judicial Powers: Can summon witnesses, gather evidence, and recommend disciplinary or legal action.

• Timely Inquiry: Must complete inquiry within 90 days, and submit recommendations within 10 days thereafter.

• Confidentiality Mandate: All proceedings, identities, and outcomes are confidential under Section 16 of the Act.

• Significance of ICCs:

• Ensures institutional accountability in safeguarding women’s rights. Acts as a deterrent against power abuse and harassment in hierarchal workplaces. Empowers women with a legal and secure grievance forum. Promotes compliance culture and strengthens India’s commitment to gender justice.

• Ensures institutional accountability in safeguarding women’s rights.

• Acts as a deterrent against power abuse and harassment in hierarchal workplaces.

• Empowers women with a legal and secure grievance forum.

• Promotes compliance culture and strengthens India’s commitment to gender justice.

Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA)

Source: TOI

Context: Google and UC Berkeley’s Seismology Lab have released a new global performance report of the Android Earthquake Alert (AEA) system.

• The system issued successful early warnings in 98 countries.

About Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA):

• What is AEA? AEA is a crowdsourced early warning system that uses the accelerometers in Android smartphones to detect early seismic waves (P-waves) and send alerts before destructive shaking (S-waves)

• AEA is a crowdsourced early warning system that uses the accelerometers in Android smartphones to detect early seismic waves (P-waves) and send alerts before destructive shaking (S-waves)

• Developed By: Developed by Google in collaboration with the Seismology Laboratory of University of California, Berkeley.

• How It Works?

• Sensor Activation: Android phones sense initial P-waves using onboard accelerometers. Crowdsourcing: Data is sent to Google servers and cross-verified with signals from nearby devices. Real-time Processing: If confirmed, servers estimate epicentre, magnitude, and distance. Alert Dispatch: Warning is sent to users before S-waves hit, allowing 10–60 seconds of preparation.

• Sensor Activation: Android phones sense initial P-waves using onboard accelerometers.

• Crowdsourcing: Data is sent to Google servers and cross-verified with signals from nearby devices.

• Real-time Processing: If confirmed, servers estimate epicentre, magnitude, and distance.

• Alert Dispatch: Warning is sent to users before S-waves hit, allowing 10–60 seconds of preparation.

• Key Features:

• Dual Alert Types: ‘BeAware’ for mild shaking ‘TakeAction’ for strong tremors with override alerts Global Coverage: Rolled out from the U.S. in 2020 to 98 countries by 2024. User Impact: Issued 79 crore alerts and 79% of 1.5 lakh users found alerts highly useful. Algorithm Tweaks: Reduced median error in quake magnitude estimates from 0.5 to 0.25. Accessibility: Available on all Android devices with opt-in alert settings.

• Dual Alert Types: ‘BeAware’ for mild shaking ‘TakeAction’ for strong tremors with override alerts

• ‘BeAware’ for mild shaking

• ‘TakeAction’ for strong tremors with override alerts

• Global Coverage: Rolled out from the U.S. in 2020 to 98 countries by 2024.

• User Impact: Issued 79 crore alerts and 79% of 1.5 lakh users found alerts highly useful.

• Algorithm Tweaks: Reduced median error in quake magnitude estimates from 0.5 to 0.25.

• Accessibility: Available on all Android devices with opt-in alert settings.

• Significance:

• Democratises Disaster Warning: Extends early warning access from 25 crore to 250 crore people. Zero-Cost Infrastructure: Utilises existing consumer smartphones—no additional sensors required. Time-Sensitive Alerts: Provides crucial seconds for evacuation, safety, or halting transport systems.

• Democratises Disaster Warning: Extends early warning access from 25 crore to 250 crore people.

• Zero-Cost Infrastructure: Utilises existing consumer smartphones—no additional sensors required.

• Time-Sensitive Alerts: Provides crucial seconds for evacuation, safety, or halting transport systems.

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

Source: IE

Context: Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has been confirmed as the cause behind the death of 16 spotted deer at Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune, prompting urgent reviews of epidemic control.

About Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD):

• What is FMD? Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep, pigs, and deer. It causes fever, painful blisters, and lameness, severely impacting animal productivity and economic output.

• Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep, pigs, and deer. It causes fever, painful blisters, and lameness, severely impacting animal productivity and economic output.

• Historical Overview:

• First identified: In the United States in 1870 and eradicated by 1929. Current Status: Endemic in many parts of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Zoonotic Potential: FMD does not affect humans and is not a food safety threat.

• First identified: In the United States in 1870 and eradicated by 1929.

• Current Status: Endemic in many parts of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

• Zoonotic Potential: FMD does not affect humans and is not a food safety threat.

• Transmission and Symptoms:

• Transmission: Direct contact, contaminated feed, tools, vehicles, and airborne particles. Vector Hosts: Cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, deer (like the Pune zoo chitals). Incubation: 2–14 days. Symptoms: High fever for 2–3 days. Blisters on mouth, tongue, hooves, mammary glands. Excessive salivation and lameness. Low milk yield, abortions, and sterility. Diagnosis: Laboratory testing at accredited institutes (e.g., ICAR-NIFMD, Bhubaneswar).

• Transmission: Direct contact, contaminated feed, tools, vehicles, and airborne particles.

• Vector Hosts: Cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, deer (like the Pune zoo chitals).

• Incubation: 2–14 days.

• Symptoms: High fever for 2–3 days. Blisters on mouth, tongue, hooves, mammary glands. Excessive salivation and lameness. Low milk yield, abortions, and sterility.

• High fever for 2–3 days.

• Blisters on mouth, tongue, hooves, mammary glands.

• Excessive salivation and lameness.

• Low milk yield, abortions, and sterility.

• Diagnosis: Laboratory testing at accredited institutes (e.g., ICAR-NIFMD, Bhubaneswar).

• Control Measures and Government Interventions:

• National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Launched in 2019, 100% centrally funded. Targets FMD and Brucellosis eradication by 2030. Integrated with Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): Supports vaccination, ear-tagging, disease surveillance, cold chain, and awareness. Institutional Infrastructure: ICAR-NIFMD, IVRI Bareilly, NIVEDI Bengaluru conduct vaccine R&D, monitoring, and outbreak reporting.

• National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Launched in 2019, 100% centrally funded. Targets FMD and Brucellosis eradication by 2030.

• Launched in 2019, 100% centrally funded.

• Targets FMD and Brucellosis eradication by 2030.

• Integrated with Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): Supports vaccination, ear-tagging, disease surveillance, cold chain, and awareness.

• Institutional Infrastructure: ICAR-NIFMD, IVRI Bareilly, NIVEDI Bengaluru conduct vaccine R&D, monitoring, and outbreak reporting.

Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025

Source: ET

Context: The 14th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 between India and Singapore began in Jodhpur, focusing on mechanised warfare and UN peacekeeping scenarios, further boosting bilateral defence ties.

About Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025:

• What Is It? A bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces, aimed at enhancing operational coordination, particularly under United Nations mandates.

• A bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces, aimed at enhancing operational coordination, particularly under United Nations mandates.

• Participating Nations:

• India: Mechanised Infantry Regiment Singapore: 42nd Armoured Regiment, 4th Singapore Armoured Brigade

• India: Mechanised Infantry Regiment

• Singapore: 42nd Armoured Regiment, 4th Singapore Armoured Brigade

• Key Features:

• Format & Focus: Conducted as a tabletop exercise and computer-based wargame to validate joint operational tactics in mechanised warfare. UN Mandate Simulation: Emphasizes joint coordination during UN peacekeeping operations, enhancing combat readiness in multinational missions. Symbolic Handover: Includes ceremonial regimental flag transfer to represent operational synergy and shared command spirit. Indian Army Showcase: Culminates in a military equipment display, highlighting India’s technological prowess and defence preparedness. Interoperability Training: Reinforces tactical and strategic-level collaboration, improving joint mission execution capacity.

• Format & Focus: Conducted as a tabletop exercise and computer-based wargame to validate joint operational tactics in mechanised warfare.

• UN Mandate Simulation: Emphasizes joint coordination during UN peacekeeping operations, enhancing combat readiness in multinational missions.

• Symbolic Handover: Includes ceremonial regimental flag transfer to represent operational synergy and shared command spirit.

• Indian Army Showcase: Culminates in a military equipment display, highlighting India’s technological prowess and defence preparedness.

• Interoperability Training: Reinforces tactical and strategic-level collaboration, improving joint mission execution capacity.

• Strategic Significance

• Strengthens Indo-Pacific Security: Reinforces India’s strategic partnership with Singapore in a region marked by evolving security challenges. Boosts Defence Diplomacy: Serves as a model of military-to-military engagement, showcasing India’s commitment to regional stability. Capacity Building: Enhances both armies’ ability to operate jointly in multinational coalitions, especially under UN-led scenarios.

• Strengthens Indo-Pacific Security: Reinforces India’s strategic partnership with Singapore in a region marked by evolving security challenges.

• Boosts Defence Diplomacy: Serves as a model of military-to-military engagement, showcasing India’s commitment to regional stability.

• Capacity Building: Enhances both armies’ ability to operate jointly in multinational coalitions, especially under UN-led scenarios.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025 Mapping:

Kalu River

Source: FPJ

Context: Over 300 trekkers were rescued in a 7-hour operation near the Kalu River in the Malshej Ghat region, after heavy rainfall caused a sudden rise in river water levels, exposing gaps in safety protocols in eco-tourism zones.

About Kalu River:

• What is the Kalu River? The Kalu River is a monsoon-fed river originating in the Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, flowing through the Sahyadri ranges and finally draining into the Ulhas River.

• The Kalu River is a monsoon-fed river originating in the Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, flowing through the Sahyadri ranges and finally draining into the Ulhas River.

• Origin and Course:

• Source: Emerges from the Tolar Khind (Pass) near Harishchandragad Peak, close to Pimpalgaon Joga Dam in Pune district. Course: Flows westward, forming Kalu Falls near Savarne–Malshej Ghat and traverses Khireshwar village. Confluence: Joined by Doifodi at Saralgaon and Bhatsa River near Ambivali. Mouth: Joins Ulhas River near Atali village. Ulhas then drains into Vasai Bay of the Arabian Sea. Drainage Basin: Acts as part of the west-flowing Konkan drainage system.

• Source: Emerges from the Tolar Khind (Pass) near Harishchandragad Peak, close to Pimpalgaon Joga Dam in Pune district.

• Course: Flows westward, forming Kalu Falls near Savarne–Malshej Ghat and traverses Khireshwar village.

• Confluence: Joined by Doifodi at Saralgaon and Bhatsa River near Ambivali.

• Mouth: Joins Ulhas River near Atali village. Ulhas then drains into Vasai Bay of the Arabian Sea.

• Drainage Basin: Acts as part of the west-flowing Konkan drainage system.

• Key Features:

• Geological Transition: It cascades from the Deccan Plateau to the Konkan region, creating dramatic waterfalls like Kalu Falls (1200 ft). Ecological Zone: Flows through wildlife-rich forests, including Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Sanctuary, home to leopards, snakes, and endemic flora. Rainwater Hijacking: Experts claim the river diverted upper Mula River flows, depriving Ahmednagar and Marathwada of needed rainwater. Tourist Attraction: Its scenic beauty draws thousands, but steep terrain, flash floods, and slippery trails make it hazard-prone. Socio-Hydrological Impact: Despite high rainfall, Konkan’s excess water drains into the sea unused, highlighting the need for water diversion infrastructure.

• Geological Transition: It cascades from the Deccan Plateau to the Konkan region, creating dramatic waterfalls like Kalu Falls (1200 ft).

• Ecological Zone: Flows through wildlife-rich forests, including Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Sanctuary, home to leopards, snakes, and endemic flora.

• Rainwater Hijacking: Experts claim the river diverted upper Mula River flows, depriving Ahmednagar and Marathwada of needed rainwater.

• Tourist Attraction: Its scenic beauty draws thousands, but steep terrain, flash floods, and slippery trails make it hazard-prone.

• Socio-Hydrological Impact: Despite high rainfall, Konkan’s excess water drains into the sea unused, highlighting the need for water diversion infrastructure.

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Table of Contents

GS Paper 1 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July (2025)

Legacy of Chola

GS Paper 3:

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

Haridwar Stampede

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Sohrai Art

India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA)

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025

Mapping:

Kalu River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 July 2025

Legacy of Chola

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Haridwar Stampede

Sohrai Art

India’s First Private Test Facility for Depleted Heavy Water Upgradation

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Android Earthquake Alert System (AEA)

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025

Kalu River