DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 20th July 2026

Subject: Environment & Ecology / Geography

Why in News?

Pallikaranai Marshland was in the news after reports of quicksand formation in parts of the marsh following heavy rainfall in Chennai. The incident highlighted the marshland’s unique hydrological characteristics and renewed attention to the conservation of this ecologically significant urban wetland. 

Key Facts

• Location: Situated in South Chennai, Tamil Nadu, adjacent to the Bay of Bengal along the Coromandel Coast. 
• It is one of the last remaining natural freshwater wetlands in South India and serves as Chennai’s largest urban marshland. 
• Ramsar Status: Designated as a Ramsar Site (Wetland of International Importance) in 2022. 
• Ecological Significance: 
  • Acts as a natural flood buffer by storing excess rainwater. 
  • Recharges groundwater and regulates the local microclimate. 
  • Connected to 31 water bodies, receiving surplus monsoon runoff. 
• Biodiversity: 
  • Supports over 330 species of flora and fauna. 
  • Habitat for resident and migratory birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals. 
  • Important bird species include Spot-billed Pelican, Greater Flamingo, Purple Heron, Black-winged Stilt, and Pheasant-tailed Jacana. 
• Major Threats: 
  • Urban encroachment. 
  • Solid waste dumping and sewage discharge. 
  • Infrastructure development and habitat fragmentation. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

UPSC frequently asks about Ramsar Sites, urban wetlands, and their ecological functions. Remember that Pallikaranai is a freshwater marsh, unlike mangroves or estuaries, and plays a vital role in flood moderation, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity conservation. Revise the Ramsar Convention (1971), the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, and other important wetlands such as Chilika Lake, Keoladeo National Park, Loktak Lake, Point Calimere, and Kazhuveli. Questions may also test the distinction between marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens.

Source/Reference:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/quicksand-in-pallikaranai-marshland-in-chennai/article71239210.ece

Subject: Economy

Why in News?

The Investment Friendliness Index (IFI) 2026, the first-ever national index released by NITI Aayog, ranked Gujarat as India’s most investment-friendly state, followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The index aims to assess and improve the investment ecosystem across States and Union Territories while fostering competitive cooperative federalism. 

Key Facts

• Released by: NITI Aayog. 
• Announced in: Union Budget 2025–26. 
• Objective: 
  • Assess the investment climate across States and UTs. 
  • Encourage reforms to attract domestic and foreign investment. 
  • Provide investors with a data-driven assessment of investment destinations. 
• Assessment Framework: Based on two broad dimensions: 
  • Opportunity (availability of skilled manpower, infrastructure, market potential, industrial ecosystem, etc.). 
  • Risk (governance quality, regulatory certainty, financial health, policy stability, compliance burden, etc.). 
• Top Performing States (2026): 

1. Gujarat 
2. Maharashtra 
3. Tamil Nadu 
4. Goa 
5. Odisha 

• The index is intended as a reform-oriented tool, enabling States to identify policy gaps and strengthen investment facilitation. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

UPSC frequently asks about indices, their publishing organisations, and their objectives. Remember that the IFI is released by NITI Aayog (not DPIIT or the World Bank) and is India’s first dedicated index measuring investment readiness of States and UTs. It complements indices such as the Export Preparedness Index, India Innovation Index, Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS), and SDG India Index. A potential prelims question could test the publisher, purpose, or top-performing States, making these facts highly relevant. 

Source/Reference:

https://theprint.in/economy/gujarat-tops-niti-aayogs-first-investment-friendliness-index-maharashtra-and-tamil-nadu-follow/2989423/

Subject: Geography / Economy / Environment & Ecology

Why in News?

The 1,000 MW Naying Hydroelectric Project was recently in the news after the Central Government granted environmental clearance for the project in Arunachal Pradesh, paving the way for statutory approvals and construction. The project is significant both for India's renewable energy ambitions and its strategic location near the India–China border. 

Key Facts

• Location: Siang and Shi-Yomi districts, Arunachal Pradesh. 
• River: Siyom (Yomgo) River, a major tributary of the Siang River, which later becomes the Brahmaputra in India. 
• Installed Capacity: 1,000 MW (4 × 250 MW). 
• Project Type: Run-of-the-River (RoR) hydropower project with minimal storage. 
• Implementing Agency: North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) in collaboration with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Major Components: 
  • Concrete dam. 
  • Underground powerhouse. 
  • Diversion tunnels. 
• Expected Annual Generation: Approximately 4,966.77 GWh of electricity. 
• The project forms part of Arunachal Pradesh's strategy to harness its vast hydropower potential, often called the "Decade of Hydropower (2025–2035)". 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

UPSC frequently asks about hydroelectric projects, trans-Himalayan rivers, and strategic infrastructure in the Northeast. Remember that the Siyom River is a tributary of the Siang, which enters India from Tibet (where it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo) and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam. Distinguish run-of-the-river projects from storage dams, and revise other major hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh such as Subansiri Lower (2,000 MW), Dibang Multipurpose Project (2,880 MW), Etalin (3,097 MW), and the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project. The strategic location of such projects near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) also makes them important from both energy security and national security perspectives. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.constructionworld.in/policy-updates-and-economic-news/centre-clears-1000-mw-naying-hydel-project-in-arunachal-pradesh/94720

Subject: Environment & Ecology / Science & Technology

Why in News?

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered two new spider species—Simonia lawbah and Hamataliwa papikonda—from the subterranean caves of Meghalaya and the forest canopies of Andhra Pradesh, respectively. The discoveries, published in Zootaxa and Records of the Zoological Survey of India, highlight India’s rich but understudied biodiversity. 

Key Facts

• Discovering Organisation: Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). 
• New Species 1: Simonia lawbah 
  • Family: Theridiosomatidae (Ray Spiders). 
  • Discovered in Krem Lawbah Cave, Meghalaya. 
  • First record of the genus Simonia in India. 
  • A troglophilic species—adapted to cave habitats but capable of surviving outside caves under suitable conditions. 
  • Constructs a distinctive cone-shaped “ray web” to trap flying insects. 
• New Species 2: Hamataliwa papikonda 
  • Family: Oxyopidae (Lynx Spiders). 
  • Discovered in the mixed deciduous forest canopy of Papikonda National Park, Andhra Pradesh. 
  • First record of the genus Hamataliwa in Andhra Pradesh. 
  • An active hunting spider that does not build webs; captures prey using speed, agility, and spiny legs. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

UPSC frequently asks about newly discovered species, protected areas, and scientific terminology. Remember that troglophilic species prefer cave environments but are not exclusively restricted to caves, unlike troglobitic species, which are obligate cave dwellers. Also revise the Zoological Survey of India (established in 1916; headquarters: Kolkata) and important biodiversity-rich locations such as Meghalaya’s limestone cave systems and Papikonda National Park in the Eastern Ghats. Questions may also test the distinction between web-building spiders (Ray Spiders) and active hunting spiders (Lynx Spiders). 

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2285722&reg=48&lang=2

(MAINS Focus)

GS III – Environment / GS II – Governance
Water Conservation, Groundwater Recharge, and Community Participation

Introduction

In the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat (28 June 2026), the Prime Minister launched the "Catch the Rain" campaign (4 July–4 August 2026), urging citizens to conserve every drop of rain. Building on the success of Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB), which exceeded its water conservation targets, the initiative promotes community-led rainwater harvesting and water security to enhance resilience against climate variability.

The Campaign Framework

Catch the Rain (July-August 2026)

• Call to Action: PM's appeal in Mann Ki Baat (28 June 2026)
• Duration: 4 July – 4 August 2026
• Key Tasks:
  • Rainwater harvesting in homes, societies, workplaces
  • Recharge pits/shafts; repair unused borewells
  • Restore baolis, wells, traditional water bodies
  • Desilt ponds and water reservoirs
  • Tree plantation in water retention areas

Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB)

• Principles: Community, CSR, and Cost (3Cs)
• JSJB 1.0 (April 2024 – May 2025): 27+ lakh recharge structures constructed (target: 10 lakh)
• JSJB 2.0 (June 2025 – May 2026): 1.5+ crore structures reported (target: 1 crore) – over 50% excess; under verification
• Focus: Over-Exploited and Critical districts

Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA)

• Launched: 22 March 2021 (World Water Day) by PM Modi
• Theme: "Catch the Rain, where it falls, when it falls"
• Evolution:
  • 2021: Rainwater harvesting, geo-tagging, awareness
  • 2022: Traditional water body restoration, spring-shed development
  • 2023: Source sustainability in 150 water-stressed districts
  • 2024: Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti (women-led conservation)

Institutional and Community Mechanisms

Jal Shakti Kendras (JSKs)

• Role: Knowledge and facilitation hubs in districts
• Functions: Disseminate water harvesting techniques; provide technical guidance; support planning and implementation

Convergence with Government Schemes

• Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission – Gramin (VB-G RAM-G)
• Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) under PMKSY
• Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies under PMKSY
• CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund)
• Finance Commission Grants and State schemes

Community Participation (Jan Bhagidari)

• Stakeholders: Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, women's groups, youth, educational institutions, civil society
• Recognition: Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman for exemplary women-led efforts

Impact and Achievements

Quantifiable Outcomes

• JSJB 1.0: 27+ lakh recharge structures (against 10 lakh target)
• JSJB 2.0: 1.5+ crore structures (against 1 crore target) – exceeding by 50%
• Geographic Focus: Over-Exploited and Critical groundwater districts

Evolution to Mass Movement

• From Programme to Jan Andolan: Community participation, scientific planning, and resource convergence
• Women's Leadership: Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti (2024) demonstrated community-led water security
• Institutional Strengthening: JSKs as knowledge hubs

Climate Resilience

• Agriculture: Strengthened irrigation through groundwater recharge
• Rural Livelihoods: Sustained water availability for farming and domestic use
• Disaster Resilience: Reduced flood/drought vulnerability

Challenges

• Physical Verification: 1.5+ crore structures need field validation
• Maintenance: Structures require sustained upkeep
• Groundwater Quality: Over-recharge may cause contamination
• Behavioral Change: Long-term water conservation requires sustained public awareness
• Inter-State Coordination: Aquifer-level planning remains weak

Way Forward

Strengthening Implementation

• Verification: Complete physical verification of JSJB 2.0 structures
• Maintenance: Create community-based maintenance protocols
• Technology: Use geo-tagging and AI for monitoring
• Integration: Link with Jal Jeevan Mission and AMRUT

Enhancing Community Participation

• Capacity Building: Train local communities in scientific recharge techniques
• Incentives: Expand recognition like Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman
• Awareness: Use Mann Ki Baat and digital platforms for outreach
• Youth Engagement: School/college involvement in water conservation

Policy and Institutional Reforms

• Groundwater Regulation: Strengthen state groundwater laws
• Aquifer Mapping: Complete aquifer mapping for all critical districts
• Water Budgeting: Integrate in district planning
• Climate Adaptation: Link water conservation with climate action plans

Conclusion

India's water conservation initiatives—Catch the Rain, Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, and Jal Shakti Abhiyan—have strengthened community-led water management through large-scale recharge structures and rainwater harvesting. Going forward, sustained public participation, better maintenance, and climate-smart water governance will be crucial for ensuring long-term water security.

Practice Question

1. Catch the Rain and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari have strengthened community-led water conservation in India. Critically examine. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2286237&reg=3&lang=1

GS III – Science & Technology / GS III – Economy
Space Sector Reforms, Private Sector Participation, and Commercial Viability

Introduction

The successful launch of Vikram-1 by Skyroot Aerospace marks India’s first private orbital mission, reflecting the success of space sector reforms and the 2023 Space Policy. It strengthens India’s commercial space capabilities, though long-term success will depend on achieving global competitiveness and commercial viability.

Vikram-1: Engineering and Business Model

Technical Specifications

• Type: Four-stage launcher with carbon-composite structures
• Service Model: “Cab service” for satellites – custom orbit and schedule
• Pricing: Targeted below PSLV and above SSLV (projected)
• Future Plans: More powerful Vikram-2 in development

Company Profile

• Founded: 2018 by two former ISRO engineers
• Milestones: Engine tests (2020), suborbital flight (2022), orbital launch (2026)
• Position: India’s first private orbital launch provider

Market Strategy

• Rideshare Comparison: Cheaper per kg on larger rockets
• Premium Model: Customers pay for flexibility in orbit and schedule
• Market Uncertainty: Size of market for premium launch services is unclear

Policy Reforms Enabling Private Sector

Key Milestones

• Pre-2020: ISRO held state monopoly; private firms were suppliers
• 2020 Reforms: Opened space sector for private players
• Indian Space Policy 2023: Enabled commercial participation
• FDI Liberalisation (2024): Up to 49% automatic route for launch vehicles

Government Ambition

• Current Space Economy: ~$8 billion
• Target (2033): $44 billion
• Sectors: Launch services, satellite manufacturing, communications, navigation, earth observation

Regulatory Gap

• No Space Activities Act: Liability governed by policy, contracts, existing law, international commitments
• Risk: Regulatory uncertainty, especially in case of launch or orbital mishap

Commercial Challenges Ahead

Competitive Landscape

• Established Players: SpaceX, Rocket Lab (global); rapidly scaling Chinese firms
• Rideshare Competition: Often cheaper per kg to orbit
• Differentiation: Skyroot bets on flexibility (orbit/schedule) over cost

Engineering Scalability

• Production Scale: Batch-to-batch variability harder to control
• Repeatability: Need to demonstrate stable launch costs
• Cost Control: Carbon-composite structures for cost reduction

Market Size

• Uncertain Demand: Premium service market size unknown
• Customer Base: Satellite operators requiring custom orbits
• Pricing: Must balance competitiveness and viability

Weaknesses and Risks

• Commercial Viability Untested: Need to demonstrate repeatable, cost-effective launches
• Regulatory Gap: No Space Activities Act; liability uncertainty
• Market Competition: Crowded field with established and emerging players
• Scale Challenges: Batch-to-batch variability at higher production volumes

Way Forward

Enhancing Commercial Viability

• Cost Reduction: Achieve projected SSLV-level pricing
• Demonstrate Repeatability: Multiple successful launches
• Market Development: Secure anchor customers; expand customer base
• Scale Production: Manage batch-to-batch variability

Policy and Regulatory Strengthening

• Space Activities Act: Provide statutory liability framework
• Insurance: Develop space launch insurance ecosystem
• Clear FDI Norms: Ensure investor confidence
• Public-Private Coordination: ISRO as R&D partner, not competitor

Sectoral Growth

• Ecosystem Development: Support satellite manufacturing, ground stations
• International Partnerships: Collaborate with global space agencies
• Skill Development: Train workforce for private space sector
• Innovation: Encourage R&D in advanced propulsion and materials

Conclusion

The Vikram-1 launch is a landmark for India’s private space sector, showcasing the success of recent space reforms. However, sustaining this success will require commercial viability, a supportive regulatory framework, and global competitiveness to achieve India’s ambitious space economy goals.

Practice Question

1. The success of Vikram-1 marks a new era for India’s private space sector. Discuss its significance and the challenges to achieving commercial viability. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/spreading-wings-on-the-vikram-1-launch/article71241248.ece