UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May (2025)
• India’s FRA vs. Global Conservation Laws
India’s FRA vs. Global Conservation Laws
GS Paper 3:
• Maize for Ethanol Production: Fuel vs Feed crisis
Maize for Ethanol Production: Fuel vs Feed crisis
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Orange Economy
Orange Economy
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Vikramaditya I of Badami Chalukyas
Vikramaditya I of Badami Chalukyas
• Unique Identification Authority of India
Unique Identification Authority of India
• INS Tamal
INS Tamal
• Nabakalebara Ritual
Nabakalebara Ritual
• Tendu Leaves
Tendu Leaves
• Metal-Free Catalyst for Hydrogen Fuel Production
Metal-Free Catalyst for Hydrogen Fuel Production
Mapping:
• Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
India’s FRA vs. Global Conservation Laws
Syllabus: Governance
Source: TH
Context: At CBD COP-16 (2025), a permanent subsidiary body for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) was created to uphold rights in biodiversity conservation.
• Amid global exclusionary trends, India’s Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006 stands out for linking community forest governance with conservation.
About India’s FRA vs. Global Conservation Laws:
• FRA – A Rights-Based Conservation Model: The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 legally recognizes 13 categories of forest rights, empowering gram sabhas for community-led biodiversity conservation. It acknowledges historical injustice faced by tribal communities and integrates tenure security with ecosystem protection.
• The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 legally recognizes 13 categories of forest rights, empowering gram sabhas for community-led biodiversity conservation.
• It acknowledges historical injustice faced by tribal communities and integrates tenure security with ecosystem protection.
• Global Trends – Fortress Conservation Model: Many global laws (e.g., Wildlife Acts in Africa and Latin America) adopt an exclusionary “protected area” model, displacing 10–20 million IPLCs worldwide (g.: Batwa in Uganda, Masai in Kenya). This “fortress conservation” criminalizes traditional users and centralizes forest control under the state or private actors.
• Many global laws (e.g., Wildlife Acts in Africa and Latin America) adopt an exclusionary “protected area” model, displacing 10–20 million IPLCs worldwide (g.: Batwa in Uganda, Masai in Kenya).
• This “fortress conservation” criminalizes traditional users and centralizes forest control under the state or private actors.
• Constitutional and Legal Backing in India: India’s Constitution provides Articles 244 & 244A, enabling tribal governance in Scheduled Areas. Complemented by PESA (1996) and BDA (2002), the FRA remains a rare global example linking local autonomy with biodiversity stewardship.
• India’s Constitution provides Articles 244 & 244A, enabling tribal governance in Scheduled Areas.
• Complemented by PESA (1996) and BDA (2002), the FRA remains a rare global example linking local autonomy with biodiversity stewardship.
Limitations of FRA Implementation:
• Weak Institutional Convergence: Despite FRA’s decentralized vision, updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans (NBSAPs 2024) still prioritize forest departments, marginalizing gram sabhas.
• Incomplete Recognition of Rights: Over 1.4 crore claims filed under FRA; however, only a fraction has been approved, often diluted or denied by forest authorities.
• Non-Recognition of “Indigenous”: India avoids using “indigenous” in law, weakening its alignment with UNDRIP (2007) which India supported globally.
• Biodiversity Monetisation Risks: BDA 2024 Draft Rules may commercialize biodiversity via Bioprospecting, risking corporate capture of traditional knowledge, unless integrated with FRA safeguards.
• OECM Concerns: Without clarity, Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) risk becoming parallel protected areas, unless grounded in prior informed consent of forest communities.
Way Ahead: Strengthening FRA Through Global Learning
• Integrate UNDRIP Principles: Legally recognize cultural autonomy of IPLCs in national law, as done in Peru’s Ashaninka law or Canada’s Indigenous Protected Areas framework.
• Institutional Synergy: Merge BDA’s Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) with gram sabhas under FRA to reduce conflict and enhance community participation.
• Implement Article 8(j) of CBD: Fully implement CBD’s provision on traditional knowledge and benefit-sharing, ensuring community-led documentation and control.
• Expand Legal Literacy and Tenure Mapping: Invest in community-led forest rights mapping, using platforms like Van Gujari GIS or Gram Sabha Biodiversity Registers (GSBRs).
• Include IPLCs in Protected Area Governance: Involve local communities through co-management models like Joint Protected Area Committees (as in parts of Mexico and Nepal).
Conclusion:
India’s Forest Rights Act 2006 remains globally unique for integrating community rights with conservation goals. Aligning global safeguards with FRA’s democratic spirit and ensuring institutional coherence can foster inclusive, sustainable forest governance rooted in justice and ecological wisdom.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025 GS Paper 3 :
Maize for Ethanol Production: Fuel vs Feed crisis
Syllabus: Biofuel
Source: IE
Context: The rapid diversion of maize for ethanol production in India has triggered a Fuel vs Feed crisis, forcing dependence on imports and raising concerns over genetically modified (GM) maize use for biofuel.
• India’s maize ethanol demand surged from 0.8 MT in 2022-23 to 12.7 MT in 2024-25, significantly reducing feed grain availability.
About Maize for Ethanol Production:
What Are Biofuels?
• Biofuels are renewable fuels derived from biological materials like crops, waste, or residues used as substitutes for petrol and diesel.
• They help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Food Crops Powering Biofuel:
• Maize and sugarcane are the primary feedstocks for ethanol in India.
• 1 tonne of maize yields ~380 litres of ethanol; 7.5 MT of maize produced 286 crore litres in 2023-24.
• Post-fermentation residue (DDGS) from maize is used as animal feed, but not a full substitute for lost grain volume.
• India is the 5th largest ethanol producer, with 10% blending target moving to 20% by 2025 under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme.
The Food vs. Fuel Dilemma:
• Disrupted Grain Balance: Before 2021-22, India produced 32–33 million tonnes (MT) of maize, with domestic demand at only 28 MT, allowing surplus for exports. With 7 MT maize now diverted to ethanol production (2024-25), the balance is broken, making India a net importer of maize. Prices surged from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per tonne, affecting both consumers and industries relying on maize.
• Before 2021-22, India produced 32–33 million tonnes (MT) of maize, with domestic demand at only 28 MT, allowing surplus for exports.
• With 7 MT maize now diverted to ethanol production (2024-25), the balance is broken, making India a net importer of maize.
• Prices surged from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per tonne, affecting both consumers and industries relying on maize.
• Feed Shortages for Poultry and Cattle: Livestock feed (especially poultry and dairy) consumes over 20 MT of maize annually. The grain shortage has created a supply crisis for feed industries, who are now demanding import of genetically modified (GM) maize for exclusive ethanol use to protect feed availability.
• Livestock feed (especially poultry and dairy) consumes over 20 MT of maize annually.
• The grain shortage has created a supply crisis for feed industries, who are now demanding import of genetically modified (GM) maize for exclusive ethanol use to protect feed availability.
• Price Distortions in Soy Market: Post-ethanol processing, maize yields Distillers’ Dried Grains with Soluble (DDGS), a protein-rich byproduct. While DDGS offers cheaper protein (₹16,000–₹19,000/tonne), it undercuts soybean De-Oiled Cake (DOC), causing prices to fall from ₹32,000 to ₹22,000/tonne. Consequently, soybean trades below MSP (₹4,300 vs. ₹4,892), harming soybean farmers’ income stability.
• Post-ethanol processing, maize yields Distillers’ Dried Grains with Soluble (DDGS), a protein-rich byproduct.
• While DDGS offers cheaper protein (₹16,000–₹19,000/tonne), it undercuts soybean De-Oiled Cake (DOC), causing prices to fall from ₹32,000 to ₹22,000/tonne.
• Consequently, soybean trades below MSP (₹4,300 vs. ₹4,892), harming soybean farmers’ income stability.
• Global Parallels: The S. Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) diverted over 40% of corn to ethanol, triggering global price hikes during crises like 2007–08, 2010–11, and 2022. Similar biofuel mandates across countries intensified food price inflation and triggered trade restrictions, worsening global food insecurity.
• The S. Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) diverted over 40% of corn to ethanol, triggering global price hikes during crises like 2007–08, 2010–11, and 2022.
• Similar biofuel mandates across countries intensified food price inflation and triggered trade restrictions, worsening global food insecurity.
Way Forward:
• Balanced Blending Targets: Introduce flexible ethanol blending policies with “off-ramps” temporary suspension mechanisms during food/feed inflation.
E.g. EU and Brazil lowered blending mandates in 2022 to ease domestic food inflation.
• Promote 2G and 3G Biofuels: Shift to non-food feedstocks like agri-waste, crop stubble, used cooking oil, and cellulosic biomass.
E.g. Used cooking oil now makes up 21% of global biodiesel feedstock, easing pressure on food crops.
• Rationalize Import Policy: Permit duty-free GM maize imports solely for ethanol use, with non-diversion safeguards (not for feed or seed).
• Support Feed Industry: Create a national feed buffer stock and subsidize low-cost protein alternatives like DDGS, oilseed meals, and insect-based proteins for poultry and cattle industries.
• Protect Farmer Interests: Ensure strict enforcement of Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for soy and maize to prevent farmer distress. Encourage crop diversification and direct benefit transfers to maintain agricultural income amidst policy transitions.
• Encourage crop diversification and direct benefit transfers to maintain agricultural income amidst policy transitions.
Conclusion:
Agriculture provides 4 F’s – food, feed, fibre, and fuel, but the growing biofuel push raises trade-offs in resource allocation. Ethanol supports clean energy goals, yet it must not undermine food and feed security. A flexible, research-driven policy focused on advanced biofuels is essential for balanced growth.
• Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage. (UPSC-2023)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Orange Economy
Context: Prime Minister of India championed the ‘orange economy’ at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, urging global companies to “Create in India, Create for the World.”
About Orange Economy:
What is Orange Economy?
The orange economy, also called the creative economy, includes economic activities driven by culture, art, media, innovation, and intellectual property. It spans film, music, design, gaming, publishing, performing arts, advertising, and digital content creation.
Key Features:
• Culture-Centric: Builds on a nation’s heritage, art, and language.
• Talent-Driven: Relies heavily on individual creativity and digital tools.
• IP-Focused: Generates revenue through copyrights, trademarks, and digital IP.
• High Job Creation: Offers large-scale employment in media, design, and technology.
Significance:
• Boosts Soft Power: Enhances India’s cultural influence globally through entertainment and storytelling.
• Supports GDP Growth: Global creative economy is valued at over $2.25 trillion (UNCTAD, 2023); India’s M&E sector valued at $28 billion (2025), with growth projected to $100 billion.
• Youth Employment: Provides dynamic career avenues for India’s young workforce.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS Paper 2 – Governance & Policies
• Government support for creative industries, media regulation, and international collaboration in content creation. Role of institutions and policy incentives like WAVES, Startup India, etc.
• Government support for creative industries, media regulation, and international collaboration in content creation.
• Role of institutions and policy incentives like WAVES, Startup India, etc.
• GS Paper 3 – Economy & Technology
• Contribution of non-traditional sectors (like the creative economy) to GDP, exports, and employment. Importance of IPR protection, creative startups, and digital infrastructure.
• Contribution of non-traditional sectors (like the creative economy) to GDP, exports, and employment.
• Importance of IPR protection, creative startups, and digital infrastructure.
• Essay / Ethics
• Value-based content creation and ethical responsibility in media. Creativity vs automation debate — “enrich humans, not turn them into robots” (PM Modi quote).
• Value-based content creation and ethical responsibility in media.
• Creativity vs automation debate — “enrich humans, not turn them into robots” (PM Modi quote).
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Vikramaditya I of Badami Chalukyas
Source: HT
Context: A rare 7th-century Old Kannada inscription from the reign of Vikramaditya I of Badami Chalukyas has been unearthed at Madapura Lake in Davangere, Karnataka.
• It offering insights into taxation, land donation, and regional administration during his rule.
About Badami Chalukyas:
• Originated as a local Kannada power, and claimed descent from Ayodhya for legitimacy.
• Capital: Vatapi (Modern Badami) in Karnataka.
• Political History: Pulakesin I (543–566 CE): Founded the dynasty and fortified Badami. Pulakesin II (609–642 CE): Greatest ruler and defeated Harshavardhana at Narmada. Sent envoys to Persia and received a mission back, depicted in Ajanta caves. Vikramaditya I (644–681 CE): Reclaimed Badami from Pallavas and expanded rule over Cholas, Pandyas, and Keralas.
• Pulakesin I (543–566 CE): Founded the dynasty and fortified Badami.
• Pulakesin II (609–642 CE): Greatest ruler and defeated Harshavardhana at Narmada. Sent envoys to Persia and received a mission back, depicted in Ajanta caves.
• Sent envoys to Persia and received a mission back, depicted in Ajanta caves.
• Vikramaditya I (644–681 CE): Reclaimed Badami from Pallavas and expanded rule over Cholas, Pandyas, and Keralas.
• Contribution to Administration: Centralised monarchy with limited village autonomy. Plateau kingdom—land revenue was limited and relied on military expansion. Maintained a maritime fleet, and Pulakesin II had 100 ships.
• Centralised monarchy with limited village autonomy.
• Plateau kingdom—land revenue was limited and relied on military expansion.
• Maintained a maritime fleet, and Pulakesin II had 100 ships.
• Religious Contributions: Supported Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Jainism. Vikramaditya and others donated to Jain establishments and Pulakesin I performed Ashvamedha Yajna.
• Supported Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Jainism.
• Vikramaditya and others donated to Jain establishments and Pulakesin I performed Ashvamedha Yajna.
• Art and Architecture: Introduced Vesara style, blending Nagara and Dravida elements. Built rock-cut and structural temples at Aihole, Badami, Pattadakal.
• Introduced Vesara style, blending Nagara and Dravida elements.
• Built rock-cut and structural temples at Aihole, Badami, Pattadakal.
About Vikramaditya I:
• Vikramaditya I was the son of Pulakesin II, the most illustrious Chalukya king.
• He ascended the throne after a political crisis and Pallava invasion post his father’s death.
• Known for reclaiming Vatapi (Badami) from the Pallavas and restoring the Chalukya kingdom.
Contributions to Chalukya Dynasty:
• Military Achievements:
• Defeated Narasimhavarman I of the Pallavas who had earlier captured Badami. His military campaigns reunified the fractured Chalukya empire and restored lost prestige. Subdued southern powers like Cholas, Pandyas, and Keralas – strengthening southern Deccan control.
• Defeated Narasimhavarman I of the Pallavas who had earlier captured Badami.
• His military campaigns reunified the fractured Chalukya empire and restored lost prestige.
• Subdued southern powers like Cholas, Pandyas, and Keralas – strengthening southern Deccan control.
• Political Consolidation:
• Revived centralised authority and re-established administrative control over Karnataka and adjoining areas. Appointed loyal feudatories like Singhavenna (as per recent Davangere inscription) to govern local regions.
• Revived centralised authority and re-established administrative control over Karnataka and adjoining areas.
• Appointed loyal feudatories like Singhavenna (as per recent Davangere inscription) to govern local regions.
• Legacy:
• Known as “Rajamalla” and “Yuddhamalla” (Warrior among kings). His reign marked a turning point in reviving Chalukya power after earlier defeats. Set the stage for the architectural and cultural flourishing seen during the reign of Vikramaditya II and Kirtivarman II.
• Known as “Rajamalla” and “Yuddhamalla” (Warrior among kings).
• His reign marked a turning point in reviving Chalukya power after earlier defeats.
• Set the stage for the architectural and cultural flourishing seen during the reign of Vikramaditya II and Kirtivarman II.
Unique Identification Authority of India
Source: News on Air
Context: The UIDAI, in collaboration with NIC and NTA, conducted a successful Proof of Concept (PoC) of Aadhaar-based face authentication during NEET-UG 2025 to strengthen exam security and prevent impersonation.
About Aadhaar-Based Face Authentication:
• What is the PoC?
• It is a pilot test using Aadhaar-linked face authentication to verify candidates in real-time during NEET-UG 2025.
• It is a pilot test using Aadhaar-linked face authentication to verify candidates in real-time during NEET-UG 2025.
• Developed By: Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), in collaboration with: National Informatics Centre (NIC) and National Testing Agency (NTA).
• Key Features:
• Contactless, real-time biometric authentication of candidates at selected NEET centres in Delhi. Integrated with NIC’s digital systems and NTA protocols. Ensured high accuracy in face matching via Aadhaar biometric database. Reduced chances of impersonation and streamlined entry protocols.
• Contactless, real-time biometric authentication of candidates at selected NEET centres in Delhi.
• Integrated with NIC’s digital systems and NTA protocols.
• Ensured high accuracy in face matching via Aadhaar biometric database.
• Reduced chances of impersonation and streamlined entry protocols.
About UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India):
• Establishment: Statutory body under the Aadhaar Act, 2016, operational since July 12, 2016.
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
• Key Functions:
• Issue of Aadhaar Numbers: UID is a 12-digit unique ID for residents. Authentication Services: Offers biometric and demographic authentication. Identity Management: Maintains security and privacy of Aadhaar data. Digital Inclusion: Enables access to welfare schemes and financial services. Policy Development: Establishes procedures for Aadhaar lifecycle operations.
• Issue of Aadhaar Numbers: UID is a 12-digit unique ID for residents.
• Authentication Services: Offers biometric and demographic authentication.
• Identity Management: Maintains security and privacy of Aadhaar data.
• Digital Inclusion: Enables access to welfare schemes and financial services.
• Policy Development: Establishes procedures for Aadhaar lifecycle operations.
INS Tamal
Source: TOI
Context: India is set to receive INS Tamal, its second advanced stealth frigate built by Russia under the Krivak-III class deal.
About INS Tamal:
• What is INS Tamal? INS Tamal is a 3,900-tonne advanced stealth frigate built in Russia as part of India’s Krivak-III class deal signed in 2016. It is the sister ship of INS Tushil, commissioned in December 2024.
• INS Tamal is a 3,900-tonne advanced stealth frigate built in Russia as part of India’s Krivak-III class deal signed in 2016. It is the sister ship of INS Tushil, commissioned in December 2024.
• Developed by:
• Built at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad, Russia Joint project under India-Russia defence collaboration Part of a four-frigate contract — 2 built in Russia, 2 under construction at Goa Shipyard with technology transfer
• Built at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad, Russia
• Joint project under India-Russia defence collaboration
• Part of a four-frigate contract — 2 built in Russia, 2 under construction at Goa Shipyard with technology transfer
• Key Features:
• Stealth Technology: Radio, infrared, and acoustic signature suppression for survivability Weapon Systems: BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles (range: 450 km) Shtil Surface-to-Air Missiles Anti-submarine torpedoes and rockets Speed: Over 30 knots Helicopter Capability: Can carry Kamov-28 and Kamov-31 for anti-submarine warfare and airborne early warning Automation: High automation reduces crew workload and increases operational efficiency
• Stealth Technology: Radio, infrared, and acoustic signature suppression for survivability
• Weapon Systems: BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles (range: 450 km) Shtil Surface-to-Air Missiles Anti-submarine torpedoes and rockets
• BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles (range: 450 km)
• Shtil Surface-to-Air Missiles
• Anti-submarine torpedoes and rockets
• Speed: Over 30 knots
• Helicopter Capability: Can carry Kamov-28 and Kamov-31 for anti-submarine warfare and airborne early warning
• Automation: High automation reduces crew workload and increases operational efficiency
• Predecessor: INS Tushil, first of the four frigates, arrived at Karwar Naval Base on February 2025.
• Strategic Significance:
• Enhances India’s blue-water capabilities for operations in air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains Crucial amid rising maritime tensions, especially in the Arabian Sea Reinforces naval deterrence and force projection in the Indo-Pacific Showcases successful Make in India + global collaboration with local production of Triput & Tavasya in Goa Shipyard
• Enhances India’s blue-water capabilities for operations in air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains
• Crucial amid rising maritime tensions, especially in the Arabian Sea
• Reinforces naval deterrence and force projection in the Indo-Pacific
• Showcases successful Make in India + global collaboration with local production of Triput & Tavasya in Goa Shipyard
Nabakalebara Ritual
Source: DH
Context: The recent inauguration of the Digha Jagannath Temple in West Bengal has sparked controversy over its designation as “Jagannath Dham” and allegations of using leftover sacred wood from Puri’s Nabakalebara ritual for idol-making.
About Nabakalebara Ritual:
• What is Nabakalebara?
• Nabakalebara (meaning “new body”) is a sacred ritual associated with Lord Jagannath’s idols in Puri, Odisha. It involves the replacement of wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana with new ones. Conducted every 12 or 19 years, based on the lunar calendar (when two Asadha months occur in a year).
• Nabakalebara (meaning “new body”) is a sacred ritual associated with Lord Jagannath’s idols in Puri, Odisha.
• It involves the replacement of wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana with new ones.
• Conducted every 12 or 19 years, based on the lunar calendar (when two Asadha months occur in a year).
• Key Features & Significance:
• Astrological Basis: Timing depends on the extra Adhimasa (leap month) in the Hindu calendar. Sacred Wood (Daru): Four specific neem trees are selected based on divine signs. Logs must have certain marks (e.g., conch, disc, etc.) to be deemed suitable. Ritual Process: Banajaga Yatra: Search for holy trees by Daitapati servitors. Log Transportation: Logs brought to Puri via ceremonial procession. Idol Carving: Done secretly by Biswakarma artisans. Brahma Transfer: The divine essence (Brahma Padartha) is transferred from old to new idols in a midnight ritual. Burial of Old Idols: Deities are buried in Koili Baikuntha (temple premises).
• Astrological Basis: Timing depends on the extra Adhimasa (leap month) in the Hindu calendar.
• Sacred Wood (Daru): Four specific neem trees are selected based on divine signs. Logs must have certain marks (e.g., conch, disc, etc.) to be deemed suitable.
• Four specific neem trees are selected based on divine signs.
• Logs must have certain marks (e.g., conch, disc, etc.) to be deemed suitable.
• Ritual Process: Banajaga Yatra: Search for holy trees by Daitapati servitors. Log Transportation: Logs brought to Puri via ceremonial procession. Idol Carving: Done secretly by Biswakarma artisans. Brahma Transfer: The divine essence (Brahma Padartha) is transferred from old to new idols in a midnight ritual. Burial of Old Idols: Deities are buried in Koili Baikuntha (temple premises).
• Banajaga Yatra: Search for holy trees by Daitapati servitors.
• Log Transportation: Logs brought to Puri via ceremonial procession.
• Idol Carving: Done secretly by Biswakarma artisans.
• Brahma Transfer: The divine essence (Brahma Padartha) is transferred from old to new idols in a midnight ritual.
• Burial of Old Idols: Deities are buried in Koili Baikuntha (temple premises).
• Cultural Importance: Symbolizes rebirth and cyclical time in Hindu philosophy. Draws millions of devotees during Nabakalebara Rath Yatra.
• Symbolizes rebirth and cyclical time in Hindu philosophy.
• Draws millions of devotees during Nabakalebara Rath Yatra.
• Controversy in Digha Temple:
• Allegations suggest leftover wood from 2015 Nabakalebara was used for Digha’s idols, violating rituals. Odisha’s government has ordered a probe into the matter.
• Allegations suggest leftover wood from 2015 Nabakalebara was used for Digha’s idols, violating rituals.
• Odisha’s government has ordered a probe into the matter.
Tendu Leaves
Source: NIE
Context: Chhattisgarh has raised concerns over tendu leaf smuggling from adjoining states due to its highest procurement price of ₹5,500 per standard bag, which has incentivized illegal trade during the peak collection season.
About Tendu Leaves:
• What are Tendu Leaves?
• Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), often termed “Green Gold”, is a Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) predominantly used for wrapping beedis (hand-rolled cigarettes).
• Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), often termed “Green Gold”, is a Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) predominantly used for wrapping beedis (hand-rolled cigarettes).
• Regional Growth:
• Found widely in central India, mainly in: Madhya Pradesh (25% of India’s production) Chhattisgarh (20%) Odisha (15–20%) Maharashtra (10%)
• Found widely in central India, mainly in: Madhya Pradesh (25% of India’s production) Chhattisgarh (20%) Odisha (15–20%) Maharashtra (10%)
• Madhya Pradesh (25% of India’s production)
• Chhattisgarh (20%)
• Odisha (15–20%)
• Maharashtra (10%)
• Key Features:
• Grows as a shrub or small tree, easily identifiable by its broad leaves. A standard bag contains 1,000 bundles, each with 50 leaves. Best quality tendu leaves are reported from southern Chhattisgarh (e.g., Dantewada, Sukma).
• Grows as a shrub or small tree, easily identifiable by its broad leaves.
• A standard bag contains 1,000 bundles, each with 50 leaves.
• Best quality tendu leaves are reported from southern Chhattisgarh (e.g., Dantewada, Sukma).
• Uses and Applications:
• Primarily used in beedi-making, supporting the rural tobacco economy. Generates employment for tribal communities, contributing over 100 million person-days annually in collection and processing.
• Primarily used in beedi-making, supporting the rural tobacco economy.
• Generates employment for tribal communities, contributing over 100 million person-days annually in collection and processing.
• Challenges & Issues:
• Smuggling: Higher prices in Chhattisgarh (₹5,500/bag) vs. neighboring states fuel illegal trade. Exploitation: Low wages (₹60/day) for collectors despite lucrative trade. Declining Demand: Health concerns over smoking, rising taxes, and alternative products.
• Smuggling: Higher prices in Chhattisgarh (₹5,500/bag) vs. neighboring states fuel illegal trade.
• Exploitation: Low wages (₹60/day) for collectors despite lucrative trade.
• Declining Demand: Health concerns over smoking, rising taxes, and alternative products.
Metal-Free Catalyst for Hydrogen Fuel Production
Source: DD News
Context: Indian researchers have developed a metal-free catalyst for hydrogen fuel production using mechanical energy, marking a major breakthrough in clean energy innovation.
• This aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and advances sustainable hydrogen technology.
About Metal-Free Catalyst for Hydrogen Fuel Production:
• What is It?
• A donor-acceptor covalent organic framework (COF) that functions as a metal-free piezocatalyst. Capable of splitting water molecules under mechanical pressure (vibrations, movement) to produce hydrogen gas (H₂).
• A donor-acceptor covalent organic framework (COF) that functions as a metal-free piezocatalyst.
• Capable of splitting water molecules under mechanical pressure (vibrations, movement) to produce hydrogen gas (H₂).
• Developed by:
• Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, led by Prof. Tapas K. Maji. In collaboration with IISER Pune and Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Poland.
• Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, led by Prof. Tapas K. Maji.
• In collaboration with IISER Pune and Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Poland.
• Key Features:
• Metal-Free: Uses organic molecules—TAPA (donor) and PDA (acceptor)—linked via imide bonds. Ferrielectric Ordering (FiE): Generates intense internal electric fields that drive the catalytic process. Sponge-like Porous Architecture: Promotes easy water flow and charge separation. Mechanically Stimulated: Produces electron-hole pairs under pressure, enabling efficient water splitting.
• Metal-Free: Uses organic molecules—TAPA (donor) and PDA (acceptor)—linked via imide bonds.
• Ferrielectric Ordering (FiE): Generates intense internal electric fields that drive the catalytic process.
• Sponge-like Porous Architecture: Promotes easy water flow and charge separation.
• Mechanically Stimulated: Produces electron-hole pairs under pressure, enabling efficient water splitting.
• Significance:
• Eco-Friendly: Replaces costly, toxic metals with sustainable organic materials. Energy Efficient: Taps into ambient mechanical energy—such as vibration or pressure—for hydrogen production. Supports National Green Hydrogen Mission: Enhances India’s clean energy leadership and energy independence. Scalable Innovation: Offers a cost-effective and practical alternative to current metal-based hydrogen technologies.
• Eco-Friendly: Replaces costly, toxic metals with sustainable organic materials.
• Energy Efficient: Taps into ambient mechanical energy—such as vibration or pressure—for hydrogen production.
• Supports National Green Hydrogen Mission: Enhances India’s clean energy leadership and energy independence.
• Scalable Innovation: Offers a cost-effective and practical alternative to current metal-based hydrogen technologies.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 May 2025 Mapping:
Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
Source: IE
Context: The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) has found serious structural damage in Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) barrages, recommending urgent repairs and a complete safety review.
About Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project:
• What is KLIP? KLIP is the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation project, aimed at diverting water from the Godavari River to drought-prone regions of Telangana.
• KLIP is the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation project, aimed at diverting water from the Godavari River to drought-prone regions of Telangana.
• Location:
• Situated at Kaleshwaram, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, Telangana It draws water from the confluence of Pranahita and Godavari Rivers
• Situated at Kaleshwaram, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, Telangana
• It draws water from the confluence of Pranahita and Godavari Rivers
• Lift Irrigation Technology:
• Uses massive pumps to lift water against gravity from lower elevations to higher regions Includes four major pump stations, with Ramadugu being Asia’s largest (powered by 7 x 140 MW pumps from BHEL)
• Uses massive pumps to lift water against gravity from lower elevations to higher regions
• Includes four major pump stations, with Ramadugu being Asia’s largest (powered by 7 x 140 MW pumps from BHEL)
• Key Features of KLIP:
• World’s Largest Lift Irrigation Project: Draws water from the Godavari-Pranahita confluence to irrigate over 18 lakh acres in Telangana. Massive Infrastructure: Covers ~500 km across 13 districts with 1,800 km canal network and major barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla. High Water Capacity: Total 240 TMC – including 195 TMC from Medigadda Barrage and rest from Yellampalli & groundwater. Multi-purpose Use: Supplies water for agriculture (169 TMC), Hyderabad city (30 TMC), industry (16 TMC), and rural drinking needs (10 TMC).
• World’s Largest Lift Irrigation Project: Draws water from the Godavari-Pranahita confluence to irrigate over 18 lakh acres in Telangana.
• Massive Infrastructure: Covers ~500 km across 13 districts with 1,800 km canal network and major barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla.
• High Water Capacity: Total 240 TMC – including 195 TMC from Medigadda Barrage and rest from Yellampalli & groundwater.
• Multi-purpose Use: Supplies water for agriculture (169 TMC), Hyderabad city (30 TMC), industry (16 TMC), and rural drinking needs (10 TMC).
About National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA):
• What is NDSA?
• The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) is a statutory regulatory body established under Section 8(1) of the National Dam Safety Act, 2021. It was created by the Central Government to institutionalize dam safety and oversee compliance with safety standards across India.
• The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) is a statutory regulatory body established under Section 8(1) of the National Dam Safety Act, 2021.
• It was created by the Central Government to institutionalize dam safety and oversee compliance with safety standards across India.
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Key Functions of NDSA:
• Dam Regulation: Formulates national policies for design, construction, maintenance, and operation of dams. Dispute Resolution: Mediates conflicts between State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs) or between SDSOs and dam owners. Inspection & Oversight: Conducts periodic safety inspections, especially for specified large dams. Disaster Preparedness: Develops and monitors emergency action plans to respond to dam-related hazards. Public Awareness: Leads national campaigns to build awareness on dam safety, flood risks, and community preparedness. Technical Support: Provides capacity building, research, and guidelines for dam design and hydrological safety.
• Dam Regulation: Formulates national policies for design, construction, maintenance, and operation of dams.
• Dispute Resolution: Mediates conflicts between State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs) or between SDSOs and dam owners.
• Inspection & Oversight: Conducts periodic safety inspections, especially for specified large dams.
• Disaster Preparedness: Develops and monitors emergency action plans to respond to dam-related hazards.
• Public Awareness: Leads national campaigns to build awareness on dam safety, flood risks, and community preparedness.
• Technical Support: Provides capacity building, research, and guidelines for dam design and hydrological safety.
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