IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Analysis
Archives
(PRELIMS Focus)
Subject: Environment & Ecology / International Organisations / Economy (Renewable Energy, International Organisations, Energy Transition, Climate Change, Sustainable Development)
Why in News?
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) released its Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2025 report, stating that renewable energy helped the world avoid nearly USD 480 billion in fossil fuel costs and 8.4 gigatonnes of CO₂ emissions in 2025. The report reaffirmed that renewables remain the cheapest source of new electricity in most markets.
About IRENA
- An intergovernmental organisation established in 2009 to promote the widespread adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy worldwide.
- Headquarters: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
- Statute entered into force: 8 July 2010.
- Current Membership: Over 170 member countries and the European Union.
- India is a founding member of IRENA.
- Works closely with the United Nations, COP process, and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
Major Functions
- Promotes deployment of renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, hydropower, bioenergy, geothermal, and ocean energy.
- Publishes global reports on:
- Renewable Energy Capacity Statistics
- Renewable Power Generation Costs
- World Energy Transitions Outlook
- Provides policy advice, technical assistance, capacity building, and investment support to member countries.
- Facilitates international cooperation for achieving global climate and energy goals.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
IRENA is a high-probability UPSC Prelims organisation. Aspirants should remember its headquarters (Abu Dhabi), establishment (2009), India’s founding membership, and its mandate of promoting renewable energy, unlike the International Energy Agency (IEA), which focuses on broader energy security. UPSC may ask about IRENA’s reports, renewable energy technologies, or compare it with organisations such as the IEA, International Solar Alliance (ISA), and OPEC. The latest report also highlights key concepts like Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), energy transition, and the strategic role of renewables in reducing fossil fuel dependence and strengthening energy security.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Science & Technology (Space Technology) (Private Space Sector, Launch Vehicles, IN-SPACe, ISRO, Small Satellite Launch Systems)
Why in News?
Skyroot Aerospace is set to launch Vikram-I, India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket, under Mission Aagaman. The maiden launch is scheduled during the 12 July–4 August 2026 launch window from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, marking a historic milestone for India’s private space ecosystem.
About Vikram-I
- Developed by Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based private space company.
- Named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space programme.
- It is India’s first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle.
- Built to cater to the rapidly growing small satellite launch market.
Key Features
- Type: Four-stage orbital launch vehicle.
- Propulsion:
- First three stages: Solid-fuel propulsion.
- Fourth stage: Hypergolic liquid stage powered by a cluster of four Raman engines using MMH (Monomethylhydrazine) and NTO (Nitrogen Tetroxide).
- Constructed using an all-carbon composite structure for reduced weight.
- Incorporates 3D-printed engines, advanced avionics, and ultra-low-shock pneumatic stage separation.
- Payload Capacity:
- Up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Around 260 kg to Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO).
- Designed for rapid launch readiness and deployment of multiple satellites in a single mission.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
India’s space-sector reforms (2020) and the rise of private launch companies have become high-probability UPSC topics. Aspirants should distinguish:
- Vikram-S – India’s first private suborbital rocket (Mission Prarambh, 2022).
- Vikram-I – India’s first private orbital-class launch vehicle.
- PSLV/SSLV – Launch vehicles developed by ISRO.
UPSC may test the developer (Skyroot Aerospace), launch site (SDSC, Sriharikota), four-stage configuration, payload capacity, and the role of IN-SPACe in promoting private participation in India’s space sector. The topic also links with Make in India, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and India’s expanding commercial space capabilities.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Modern Indian History (Tribal Revolts against British Rule, Santhal Rebellion (Santhal Hul), Peasant Movements, Colonial Land Revenue Policies)
Why in News?
Hul Diwas is observed annually on 30 June to commemorate the Santhal Rebellion (Santhal Hul) of 1855. In 2026, Jharkhand marked the occasion by paying tributes to tribal freedom fighters Sidho Murmu, Kanho Murmu, Chand Murmu, Bhairav Murmu, Phulo Murmu, and Jhano Murmu, with commemorative events held at Bhognadih in Sahibganj district.
About Hul Diwas & the Santhal Hul
- ‘Hul’ means revolution or uprising in the Santhali language.
- Marks the beginning of the Santhal Rebellion on 30 June 1855, nearly two years before the Revolt of 1857.
- The uprising began at Bhognadih village in present-day Sahibganj district, Jharkhand.
- Led by Sidho Murmu, Kanho Murmu, Chand Murmu, Bhairav Murmu, and their sisters Phulo and Jhano.
- Directed against the British East India Company, exploitative zamindars, moneylenders (mahajans), and oppressive colonial revenue policies in the Damin-i-Koh region.
Outcome and Significance
- Though suppressed by the British, the rebellion compelled the colonial administration to introduce reforms.
- Led to the creation of the Santhal Parganas district under the Sonthal Parganas Act, 1855, followed later by the Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act, 1876, aimed at protecting tribal land rights.
- Considered one of the earliest organised tribal uprisings against British colonial rule.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
Tribal revolts are a high-probability UPSC Prelims topic. Aspirants should distinguish the Santhal Rebellion (1855–56) from other tribal uprisings such as the Kol Uprising (1831–32), Bhil Revolts, Munda Ulgulan (1899–1900) led by Birsa Munda, and the Rampa Rebellion (1922–24) led by Alluri Sitarama Raju. UPSC may test the leaders, year, place of origin (Bhognadih), Damin-i-Koh region, causes, and legislative outcomes of the Santhal Hul, along with its significance in India’s anti-colonial tribal resistance.
Source/Reference:
https://newsonair.gov.in/jharkhand-observes-hul-diwas-to-honour-santhal-revolutionaries/
Subject: Science & Technology (Health) / Environment (Viral Diseases, Zoonotic Diseases, WHO, Public Health, Emerging Infectious Diseases)
Why in News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently confirmed an isolated case of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in Uganda, prompting enhanced surveillance and containment measures. Health authorities stated that there were no active secondary cases at the time of reporting, though the incident has renewed global attention on this highly fatal viral disease.
About Marburg Virus Disease (MVD)
- Formerly known as Marburg haemorrhagic fever.
- A severe viral haemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV).
- Belongs to the Family: Filoviridae, the same family as the Ebola virus.
- First identified in 1967 in Marburg and Frankfurt (Germany) and Belgrade (Serbia) following laboratory exposure to infected African green monkeys.
- Natural reservoir: Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus).
Transmission & Clinical Features
- Initial infection occurs through prolonged exposure to bat-inhabited caves or mines.
- Human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated materials.
- Not an airborne disease.
- Incubation period: 2–21 days.
- Common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle pain
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Internal and external bleeding in severe cases.
- Case Fatality Rate (CFR): Approximately 24%–88%, depending on outbreak management and access to supportive care.
- No WHO-approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is currently available; treatment is primarily supportive.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
Emerging zoonotic diseases are a recurring UPSC theme. Aspirants should remember that Marburg Virus Disease belongs to the Filoviridae family, shares clinical similarities with Ebola, and is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, not by air. The Egyptian fruit bat is its principal reservoir. UPSC may ask about the causative agent, reservoir host, transmission mode, incubation period, case fatality rate, or compare MVD with diseases such as Ebola, Nipah, Lassa fever, and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF).
Source/Reference:
Subject: Defence & Internal Security / International Relations (Indian Navy, Stealth Frigates, Maritime Security, SAGAR/MAHASAGAR, India–Mauritius Relations)
Why in News?
INS Trikand participated in the 58th National Day celebrations of Mauritius at Port Louis on 12 March 2026. The deployment included a marching contingent, naval band, and helicopter fly-past, followed by a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) and joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance with the Mauritius Coast Guard, reinforcing India’s maritime partnership with Mauritius.
About INS Trikand
- A Talwar-class (Project 11356) stealth guided-missile frigate of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet.
- Commissioned: 29 June 2013.
- Built at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad, Russia.
- Named after the ‘Trikand’ (Trident), symbolising strength and maritime prowess.
- Designed for multi-role operations including anti-surface, anti-submarine, and anti-air warfare.
Key Features
- Displacement: Approximately 4,000 tonnes.
- Length: Around 125 metres.
- Propulsion: Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion system.
- Equipped with:
- BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
- Shtil surface-to-air missile system.
- 533 mm torpedoes and anti-submarine rockets.
- Advanced stealth design with reduced radar signature.
- Carries an integral helicopter (such as HAL Chetak/Kamov-28) for surveillance, search-and-rescue, and anti-submarine operations.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
Indian naval platforms are frequently tested in UPSC Prelims. Aspirants should remember that INS Trikand is a Talwar-class stealth guided-missile frigate, unlike INS Vikrant (aircraft carrier), INS Visakhapatnam (destroyer), or INS Kalvari (Scorpene-class submarine). UPSC may ask about its class, capabilities, weapon systems, and role in maritime diplomacy. The recent deployment also highlights India’s MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, strengthening India–Mauritius maritime cooperation, EEZ surveillance, and regional security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Source/Reference:
(MAINS Focus)
GS II – Governance / GS II – Social Justice
Health Policy, Disease Surveillance, and Public Health Data
Introduction
Cancer is not a notifiable disease at the national level in India, despite ICMR recommending it years ago. With cases projected to rise from 1.41 million (2022) to 2.46 million (2045)—a 74% increase—comprehensive data is critical. Current registries cover only 10-16% of the population with urban and government sector skew. Seventeen States have already made cancer notifiable; the Centre must follow suit for an evidence-based national cancer control programme.
The Current Data Deficit
Inadequate Registry Coverage
- Population Coverage: Only 10-16%
- Skew: Urban, government healthcare settings; private sector data not captured
- National Gap: No mandatory notification mandate
Projected Cancer Burden
- 2022 Cases: 1.41 million
- 2045 Projection: 2.46 million
- Increase: 74%
- Drivers: Ageing, lifestyle changes, demographic shifts
State-Level Initiatives
- 17 States have made cancer notifiable (Telangana latest)
- Demonstrates feasibility and benefits of data collection
- Proactive approach despite national inaction
Why National Notification Matters
Evidence-Based Public Health Response
- Data-Driven Planning: Targeted interventions
- Resource Allocation: Direct funds to high-burden areas
- Policy Formulation: Informed national cancer control programme
- Monitoring: Track effectiveness of interventions
Comprehensive Data Across Sectors
- Private Sector Inclusion: Captures complete picture
- Geographic Coverage: Overcomes urban skew
- Trend Analysis: Identifies emerging cancer types and risk factors
Addressing the “Liability” Concern
- Sudden Increase: Notification will show more cases
- Not a Liability: First step towards studied response
- Long-Term Benefit: Better data leads to better outcomes
Challenges
- Infrastructure: Robust reporting systems needed
- Capacity: Training healthcare professionals
- Privacy: Data protection and confidentiality
- Implementation: Coordination across Centre, States, private sector
Way Forward
Policy and Legal Framework
- Amend notifiable diseases list to include cancer
- Develop standardised reporting protocols
- Mandate private sector reporting
Infrastructure and Capacity
- Leverage Digital India for data collection
- Train healthcare professionals
- Establish quality assurance mechanisms
Data Privacy and Use
- Ensure patient confidentiality
- Restrict data to public health purposes
- Use data for policy, IEC campaigns, and resource allocation
Learning from States
- Study implementation in 17 States
- Adapt best practices nationally
- Implement ICMR recommendations
Conclusion
Cancer is not a national notifiable disease, leaving a critical data gap amid a rapidly growing burden. With 17 States already proving feasibility and ICMR advocating action, the Centre must act. The expected increase in recorded cases is not a liability but the foundation for an evidence-based response. Comprehensive data is essential for planning, resource allocation, and saving lives. The time to make cancer notifiable at the national level is now.
Practice Question
- Making cancer a notifiable disease at the national level is essential for crafting an evidence-based response to India’s growing cancer burden. Critically examine. (250 words, 15 marks)
GS II – Governance / GS III – Economic Development
Digital Inclusion, Rural Development, and Women Empowerment
Introduction
LokOS, a web and mobile platform under DAY-NRLM, enables end-to-end digitization of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and federations, capturing ₹2 lakh crore in annual financial transactions. Covering 34 States/UTs, 94.16 lakh SHGs, and 10.03 crore members, it enhances transparency and governance through digital records and real-time analytics. The platform supports the Lakhpati Didi initiative (3.87 crore potential beneficiaries) and recently launched SHE-LEAPS for women’s enterprise creation, strengthening rural livelihoods and financial inclusion.
Platform Features and Scale
Key Features
- Digital Management: Registers SHGs, VOs, CLFs; generates Aadhaar-linked IDs
- Financial Records: Tracks savings, loans, repayments; captures ₹2 lakh crore/year
- Livelihood Profiling: Supports convergence with government schemes
- Real-Time Analytics: Dashboards for data-driven decisions
- Role-Based Access: From village to national level
Geographic Reach
- States/UTs: 34
- Districts: 762 | Blocks: 7,241
- Gram Panchayats: 2.57 lakh | Villages: 5.92 lakh
Institutional Coverage
- CLFs: 34,314 | VOs: 5.62 lakh
- SHGs: 94.16 lakh | Members: 10.03 crore
Financial Support
- Revolving Fund: ₹9,718 crore
- Community Investment Fund: ₹64,608 crore
- Community Enterprise Fund: ₹38 crore
Recent Initiative: SHE-LEAPS
- Launched: 29 June 2026 under LokOS
- Purpose: Unified platform for enterprise creation, tracking, and management
- Coverage: Farm and non-farm enterprises
- Goal: Strengthen sustainable rural economy through women entrepreneurship
Challenges
- Digital Divide: Uneven smartphone/internet access
- Capacity Building: Training 10 crore members in digital literacy
- Data Security: Protecting sensitive financial and personal data
- Integration: Linking with other DPIs (UPI, DigiLocker, GeM)
- Data Quality: Ensuring accurate and timely data entry
Way Forward
Strengthening Infrastructure
- Enable offline access for low-connectivity areas
- Provide smartphones/data support to SHG bookkeepers
- Strengthen cybersecurity and data privacy
Capacity Building
- Scale digital literacy training for all members
- Develop multilingual, user-friendly interfaces
- Use Community Resource Persons (4.09 lakh) for handholding
Enhancing Impact
- Link with banking for real-time transactions
- Integrate with eSARAS and ONDC for market access
- Expand SHE-LEAPS to all SHG members
- Use analytics for policy planning and gap identification
Conclusion
LokOS has transformed SHG governance, covering 10.03 crore members and tracking ₹2 lakh crore annual transactions. With SHE-LEAPS promoting enterprise creation and Lakhpati Didi support, it empowers rural women and strengthens financial inclusion. To maximize impact, India must bridge the digital divide, build capacity, ensure data security, and integrate with broader DPI ecosystem, making LokOS a true backbone for self-reliant rural communities.
Practice Question
- LokOS exemplifies how Digital Public Infrastructure can be leveraged for rural livelihoods, financial inclusion, and women’s empowerment.” Critically examine the role of LokOS in transforming SHG governance and suggest measures for strengthening its impact. (250 words, 15 marks)
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2280986®=3&lang=1
