IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Analysis
Archives
(PRELIMS Focus)
TRISHNA Mission: India–France Thermal Earth Observation Partnership
Science & Technology
Why in News?
The TRISHNA (Thermal Infra-Red Imaging Satellite for High-resolution Natural Resource Assessment) mission is an ISRO–CNES (French Space Agency) collaborative Earth-observation mission. It is designed to provide high-resolution observations of Earth’s surface temperature, vegetation health and water-cycle dynamics.
Key Features
- Type: Earth-observation/thermal-infrared satellite.
- Partners: ISRO (India) and CNES (France).
- Primary objective: Monitor land-surface temperature and emissivity, vegetation stress, water use and surface energy balance.
- Two major payloads:
- TIR payload: Provided by CNES; four-channel long-wave infrared sensor.
- VNIR-SWIR payload: Developed by ISRO; seven spectral bands covering visible, near-infrared and short-wave infrared regions.
- Orbit: Planned sun-synchronous orbit at about 761 km altitude.
- Spatial resolution: About 57 m over land/coastal areas and 1 km over oceanic and polar regions.
- Mission life: Approximately 5 years.
Applications
TRISHNA can help monitor urban heat islands, drought and vegetation stress, evapotranspiration, glacier/snow melt, water resources, and thermal anomalies associated with volcanic/geothermal activity.
UPSC Prelims Angle
The most probable MCQ areas are mission–agency–country matching, payload ownership, thermal infrared remote sensing, and the significance of a sun-synchronous orbit. A conceptual question may ask how thermal observations help assess water stress and surface energy balance.
Source/References:
India–Luxembourg: Deepening Cooperation in Space, AI and Quantum Technologies
International Relations
Why in News?
India and Luxembourg are exploring deeper cooperation in space, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies, reflecting the growing importance of advanced technologies in India–Europe partnerships. Bilateral relations have expanded beyond trade and finance into emerging technology sectors.
Key Facts about Luxembourg
- Capital: Luxembourg City
- Region: Western Europe; landlocked country.
- Neighbours: Belgium, France and Germany.
- Political system: Constitutional monarchy; Grand Duchy.
- It is one of the world’s major financial centres and a founding member of the European Union.
- India and Luxembourg established diplomatic relations in 1948.
India–Luxembourg Cooperation
- Cooperation covers trade, investment, sustainable finance, industrial manufacturing, health and outer space.
- A 2020 India–Luxembourg Virtual Summit strengthened cooperation in finance, investment and technology.
- An MoU on peaceful uses of outer space was signed in 2022.
- Luxembourg joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2021.
- Financial-sector cooperation includes linkages between SEBI–CSSF and IFSCA–CSSF.
UPSC Prelims Angle
UPSC may test Luxembourg’s geographical location and political identity, its EU membership, or India–Luxembourg institutional linkages. A statement-based question could combine space cooperation, financial regulation and ISA membership.
Source/References:
Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND): India’s Financial Crime Intelligence Mechanism
Economy
Why in News?
The Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) issued notices to 15 Virtual Digital Assets Service Providers (VDA SPs) for non-compliance under Section 13 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The action highlights the increasing regulatory scrutiny of the crypto/virtual digital asset ecosystem.
What is FIU-IND?
- FIU-IND is the central national agency responsible for receiving, processing, analysing and disseminating information relating to suspected financial transactions.
- It functions under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
- It was established in 2004.
- It serves as India’s central nodal agency for financial intelligence concerning money laundering, associated predicate offences and terrorist financing.
Key Functions
FIU-IND:
- Receives Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and other prescribed reports from reporting entities.
- Analyses financial information to identify patterns of money laundering and terrorist financing.
- Disseminates relevant intelligence to law-enforcement and regulatory agencies.
- Ensures compliance with obligations under the PMLA, 2002.
- Works with international financial-intelligence counterparts.
VDA & PMLA Linkage
Virtual Digital Asset service providers were brought within the PMLA framework in 2023. Consequently, covered VDA service providers are treated as reporting entities and must comply with requirements such as KYC, record-keeping and reporting of suspicious transactions.
UPSC Prelims Angle
A likely MCQ can test the FIU-IND–Ministry of Finance–PMLA linkage, its functions, or the status of VDA service providers as reporting entities. Remember: FIU-IND is an intelligence-gathering and analysis body, not a conventional banking regulator.
Source/References:
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2308131®=3&lang=1
Buellia maharajensis: New Lichen Species from Mathikettan Shola
Environment & Ecology
Why in News?
Researchers have discovered Buellia maharajensis, a new species of lichen from Mathikettan Shola National Park, Kerala. It is reportedly the fourth lichen species recorded from the National Park, highlighting the biodiversity significance of the Western Ghats.
Key Facts
- Organism: Lichen
- Scientific name: Buellia maharajensis
- Location: Mathikettan Shola National Park, Idukki district, Kerala.
- Habitat: It is saxicolous, meaning it grows directly on rocks/rock surfaces.
- Elevation: Recorded at approximately 1,351 metres.
- The species’ name maharajensis commemorates Maharaja’s College, Kochi, recognising its contribution to scientific research.
Lichens – Static Linkage
Lichens represent a symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, usually an alga or cyanobacterium.
- Fungal component: Provides structure, protection and helps absorb water/minerals.
- Algal/cyanobacterial component: Performs photosynthesis and supplies organic nutrients.
- The composite body is called a thallus.
- Lichens can occur on rocks, tree bark and soil and are important ecological indicators.
UPSC Prelims Angle
A statement-based question could combine the species–location–habitat linkage or test the symbiotic nature of lichens. Also remember that Mathikettan Shola National Park is part of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.
Source/References:
Atherosclerosis: Emerging Evidence of an Autoimmune Component
General Science
Why in News?
A recent study involving mice and human patients provides evidence that atherosclerosis may qualify as an autoimmune disease, adding an important dimension to the understanding of cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that the immune system can recognise components within arterial plaques as targets and contribute to disease progression.
What is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is the accumulation of plaque within artery walls. Plaque contains cholesterol, fats, blood cells, calcium and other substances. Over time, it can harden and narrow arteries, reducing blood flow.
Autoimmune Link
- An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells or tissues.
- In atherosclerosis, chronic inflammation and immune-cell activity are already known to contribute to plaque formation and instability.
- The new evidence strengthens the view that adaptive immune responses may actively drive the disease, rather than inflammation being merely a secondary consequence.
Key Consequences
Plaque can rupture, triggering formation of a blood clot (thrombus). This may completely obstruct blood flow and cause myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke.
UPSC Prelims Angle
UPSC may test the distinction between atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, the role of immune-mediated inflammation, or the relationship between plaque rupture, thrombosis and cardiovascular events. The dynamic development provides a useful linkage between immunology and NCDs.
Source/References
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260907/Atherosclerosis-qualifies-as-an-autoimmune-disease.aspx
9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026: “Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari”
Social Issues
Why in News?
The 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah is being launched on 9 September 2026 from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Its overarching theme is “Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari”, placing Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) at the centre of community-led nutrition, childcare and early childhood development.
Mission Poshan 2.0
Launched in 2021, Mission Poshan 2.0 provides a unified framework for:
- POSHAN Abhiyaan – technology-enabled monitoring, Jan Andolan and behavioural change.
- Anganwadi Services/ICDS – supplementary nutrition, HCM and ECCE.
- Scheme for Adolescent Girls – nutritional support for eligible adolescent girls.
Five Priorities of Poshan Maah 2026
- Dietary diversity & adequate protein, including local foods.
- Fresh Hot Cooked Meals (HCM) under the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP).
- Community ownership through Anganwadi Management Committees (AMCs) and SNP Menu Boards.
- Nutrition + early stimulation for cognitive development and school readiness.
- PMMVY: 10 years of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, focusing on maternal nutrition and health-seeking behaviour.
Important Prelims Facts
- Poshan Tracker: Launched 1 March 2021; enables near-real-time monitoring of Anganwadi services, growth monitoring and ECCE activities.
- As of 31 July 2026: ~13.99 lakh AWCs, 13.30 lakh AWWs and ~8.94 crore beneficiaries.
- Poshan Pakhwada: Annual two-week campaign in April; 8th edition in 2026 was 9–23 April.
UPSC Prelims Angle
UPSC can test Mission Poshan 2.0–component matching, Poshan Maah vs Poshan Pakhwada, Poshan Tracker, AWC functions and the first 1,000 days concept. The key static–dynamic linkage is nutrition + maternal health + ECCE + community participation + digital governance.
Source:
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2307886®=3&lang=1
(MAINS Focus)
Every School, A Model School: PM SHRI and India's Push for Future-Ready Schools
GS II – Governance / GS I – Society
Education Policy, School Infrastructure, and NEP 2020 Implementation
Introduction
Launched on 7 September 2022, the PM SHRI Scheme aims to develop 14,500+ exemplar schools aligned with NEP 2020, with an outlay of ₹27,360 crore (2022–27). As of July 2026, 13,092 schools across 36 States/UTs have been selected through a three-stage Challenge Mode, focusing on infrastructure, pedagogy, inclusion and sustainability, while serving as mentor institutions for neighbouring schools.
PM SHRI: Vision and Strategic Focus
Objectives
- Exemplar Institutions: Develop existing schools as models demonstrating effective implementation of NEP 2020.
- Mentorship: Provide leadership and mentoring to neighbouring schools, creating a ripple effect.
- Holistic Development: Foster lifelong learning and equip students with 21st-century skills.
- Green Schools: Promote sustainable and environment-friendly practices.
Scale and Investment
- Total Outlay: ₹27,360 crore (Central share: ₹18,128 crore).
- Central Share Growth: ₹2,520 crore (2023-24) → ₹5,224 crore (2026-27) – 107% increase.
- Schools Selected: 13,092 (≈90% of 14,500 target).
- Direct Beneficiaries: 20+ lakh students.
- Geographical Coverage: 725 districts; 8,340 blocks/ULBs.
Key Dimensions and Pillars
Six Major Pillars (Derived from NEP 2020)
- Inclusive Learning: Equitable, joyful education for diverse backgrounds and learning abilities.
- Mentorship: Leadership and support to neighbouring schools.
- Green Schools: Sustainability and environment-friendly practices.
- Experiential Learning: Play/toy-based learning (foundational years); internships, local arts/crafts.
- Learning Outcomes: Curriculum, pedagogy, assessment focused on application of knowledge.
- Quality Infrastructure: Adequate, functional, aesthetic, and safe infrastructure.
- Future-Ready Skills: Exposure to 21st-century skills; links to local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Quality Assessment: School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) for monitoring.
Key Features
- Curriculum: CBSE or State syllabus; follows NEP’s 5+3+3+4 structure.
- Multilingual Learning: Mother tongue/local language as medium (especially early grades).
- Teachers in PM SHRI Schools: 6,102 Sanskrit; 1,994 Urdu; 9,152 regional language.
- Technology: ICT facilities, smart classrooms, internet, DIKSHA platform.
- Teacher Empowerment: Financial assistance (₹3 lakh/DIET; ₹2,500/teacher) for training in leadership, mental health, ICT, Holistic Progress Card.
School Composition (13,092 Schools)
- Primary: 1,305
- Upper Primary: 3,102
- Secondary: 3,141
- Higher Secondary: 5,544
- Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas: 80
- KVS: 913
- NVS: 620
- NCERT: 4
Selection Process: Challenge Mode
Three-Stage Process
- Stage 1 (MoU): States/UTs sign MoU with Centre, committing to support.
- Stage 2 (Eligibility): Schools identified based on UDISE+ minimum benchmarks (pucca building, barrier-free access, safety, toilets, drinking water, electricity, etc.).
- Stage 3 (Challenge Method): Schools compete based on prescribed criteria; verification through physical inspection; final selection by Expert Committee (Secretary, SE&L).
Minimum Scores
- Urban Schools: 70%
- Rural Schools: 60%
- Assessment Areas: Infrastructure, learning outcomes, pedagogy, PM POSHAN, vocational education, green initiatives, stakeholder commitment.
Challenges
- Reaching the Target: ≈10% schools yet to be selected; timeline (2026-27) approaching.
- Quality Consistency: Ensuring all 13,092 schools meet exemplar standards.
- Rural-Urban Divide: Minimum scores differ (60% vs. 70%); need to address disparities.
- Sustainability: Long-term maintenance and funding beyond the scheme period.
- Teacher Availability: Shortage of specialised teachers (Sanskrit, Urdu, regional languages).
Way Forward
- Complete Selection: Expedite selection of remaining schools.
- Quality Assurance: Strengthen SQAF and monitoring mechanisms.
- Teacher Recruitment: Address shortages in specialised and regional language teachers.
- Post-Scheme Sustainability: Plan for continued funding and maintenance.
- Mentorship Network: Strengthen collaboration between PM SHRI and neighbouring schools.
Conclusion
PM SHRI marks a shift from infrastructure-focused schooling to holistic, equitable and future-ready education, with 13,092 schools selected under its ₹27,360 crore outlay. Aligned with NEP 2020, it promotes inclusion, technology, experiential learning and mentorship, though quality consistency, target achievement and sustainability remain key challenges.
Practice Question
- PM SHRI Scheme has emerged as a key instrument for implementing NEP 2020. Critically examine its objectives, achievements and key challenges. (250 words, 15 marks)
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2308156®=3&lang=1
Falling Edifice: Delhi's Private Hostel Building Collapse
GS II – Governance / GS I – Society
Urban Development, Student Housing, and Building Safety
Introduction
A Delhi hostel building collapse that killed seven and injured five highlights two major issues: unregulated construction in residential areas and the acute shortage of affordable student housing. With rising demand for accommodation, weak enforcement of building, fire-safety and ventilation norms leaves students vulnerable to unsafe private hostels.
The Crisis: Demand, Supply, and Unregulated Growth
Student Housing Shortage
- Enrolment: Over 70,000 students enter Delhi University each year.
- Demand: Nearly half need affordable accommodation.
- University’s Role: Absolved responsibility, citing lack of land.
- Private Players: Cash in with unregulated paying guest accommodations and private hostels.
Unregulated Private Hostels
- Revenue-Driven: Every extra bed means more revenue.
- Substandard Conditions: Matchbox-sized rooms; flout building bylaws; no fire safety; lack ventilation.
The Human Cost
- Students’ Reality: Paying with safety, security, and sanity.
- Recent Tragedy: Seven dead, five injured (Sept 2026).
- Previous Incident: 2024 coaching centre basement flood killed three civil service aspirants.
State Response and Gaps
Reactionary Measures
- Suspensions: Five senior civic officers suspended.
- Probe: Ordered.
- Policy Announcement: Stringent policy for periodic structural audits and safety certifications for buildings used for public activity.
The Pattern of Inaction
- No Systemic Change: Probes, suspensions, and legal action after incidents, but larger systemic change remains elusive.
- Reactive, Not Preventive: Response is triggered by tragedies, not proactive planning.
Ambition vs. Reality
- Delhi’s Aspiration: To be a national education hub; harness soft power of youth.
- Reality: Ambition is at odds with crumbling civic infrastructure, illegal construction, and lack of safety audits.
The Need for Durable Solutions
Collaborative Action
- Centre and NCT Government: Must work together with educational institutions.
- Develop Facilities: Residential, travel, and learning facilities for students.
Addressing the Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes
- Longer Stay: Students will stay an additional year, increasing pressure on accommodation.
Regulating Private Hostels
- Part of the Solution: Private hostels can help meet demand.
- Policy and Enforcement: Must tackle crumbling civic infrastructure, illegal construction, and lack of safety audits through strict enforcement.
Conclusion
Delhi’s hostel tragedy highlights the gap between its educational ambitions and civic infrastructure. Sustainable solutions require Centre–State–institutional coordination, adequate student housing, and strict regulation and enforcement of safety norms for private hostels. Reactive measures must give way to long-term planning to ensure students have safe and affordable accommodation.
Practice Question
- Critically examine the challenges of student housing and civic infrastructure in Delhi and suggest measures to ensure safe, affordable accommodation. (250 words, 15 marks)
