1. International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
Context
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global coalition dedicated to the conservation of seven big cat species, with India playing a leading role.
Important Points:
- Launch & Membership: Initiated in April 2023, IBCA includes 95 countries (both range and non-range states). Founding members span Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Objectives: Foster collaboration, share best practices, and strengthen efforts for conservation, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation.
- Big Cats Covered: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, Puma.
- Significance: Big cats are keystone species, crucial for ecosystem balance and climate regulation.
- Conservation Status: Includes IUCN, CITES, and Indian Wildlife Protection Act details for each species.
- India’s Role: Host country and Secretariat, leveraging its success in tiger conservation.
2. Global Coalition for Social Justice
Context
Launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Global Coalition for Social Justice aims to address global inequalities and promote decent work.
Important Points:
- Recent Developments: 2nd annual forum held at the 113th International Labour Conference, Geneva.
- Key Outcomes:
- Adoption of the Biological Hazards in the Working Environment Convention, 2025 (first global standard for biological hazards at work).
- Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention to enhance seafarer rights.
- Focus on decent work in the platform economy and transition from informal to formal work.
- Adoption of the Biological Hazards in the Working Environment Convention, 2025 (first global standard for biological hazards at work).
- Significance for India: Supports India’s labor reforms and global leadership in social justice.
3. DRDO & IIT Delhi: Quantum Entanglement-Based Free-Space Communication
Context
DRDO and IIT Delhi have achieved a breakthrough in secure quantum communication using free-space optical links.
Important Points:
- Achievement: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over ~1 km with low error rates (<7%).
- Technology: Uses quantum entanglement for unbreakable encryption, crucial for cybersecurity and quantum internet.
- Benefits: Secure communications for defense, government, and critical infrastructure; especially useful in remote and challenging terrains.
- Significance: Positions India as a leader in quantum technologies.
4. SIPRI Yearbook 2025: Nuclear Arms Race
Context
The SIPRI Yearbook 2025 highlights trends in global nuclear arsenals and disarmament efforts.
Important Points:
- Key Findings: Global stockpile declining, but China, India, and others are modernizing and expanding arsenals.
- India’s Status: Increased to 180 warheads, surpassing Pakistan.
- Treaties: Overview of NPT, CTBT, TPNW, and India’s position.
- Implications: Rising nuclear risks, arms race in Asia, and challenges for global security.
5. India–Cyprus Relations
Context
Indian PM’s visit to Cyprus after 23 years marks a strengthening of bilateral ties.
Important Points:
- Diplomatic Outcomes: Joint declaration on international order, Cyprus settlement support, and economic cooperation.
- Economic Ties: Cyprus among top 10 investors in India; gateway to Europe.
- Strategic Importance: Collaboration in international forums and investment opportunities.
6. Census 2027
Context
India’s next decennial census announced for 2027, with significant updates in methodology.
Important Points:
- Phases: House Listing and Population Enumeration.
- Innovations: Digital data collection, self-enumeration, and inclusion of caste data.
- Importance: Critical for policy planning, resource allocation, and social justice measures.
7. Cyber Suraksha Exercise
Context
The Defence Cyber Agency has launched a national cybersecurity exercise to enhance cyber defense preparedness.
Important Points:
- Objective: Simulate real-world cyber threats for targeted training of defense personnel.
- Significance: Addresses rising cyber threats to national security and critical infrastructure.
8. WHA Resolution on Skin Diseases
Context
The World Health Assembly has declared skin diseases a global public health priority.
Important Points:
- Aim: Improve prevention, detection, and treatment, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
- Relevance: High disease burden, social stigma, and impact on quality of life.
9. Switch Auction
Context
The RBI conducted a government securities switch auction for better debt management.
Important Points:
- Mechanism: Swapping short-term securities with longer-dated ones.
- Outcome: Accepted ₹9,000 crore out of ₹25,000 crore.
- Significance: Helps manage public debt profile and reduce refinancing risks.
10. PM-WANI Scheme
Context
TRAI released a new tariff order for broadband services under the PM-WANI scheme.
Important Points:
- Objective: Expand public WiFi access, especially in rural areas, through local shops.
- Benefits: Boosts digital inclusion, supports Digital India, and enhances rural connectivity.
11. Dharti Aaba Janbhagidari Abhiyan
Context
A Ministry of Tribal Affairs campaign for tribal empowerment and last-mile delivery of benefits.
Important Points:
- Activities: Benefit camps at village level, awareness drives, and direct outreach.
- Significance: Promotes inclusion, social justice, and access to government schemes.
12. Samarth Program
Context
C-DOT’s Samarth program supports startups in telecom and IT innovation.
Important Points:
- Grants: 18 startups awarded for innovative solutions.
- Focus: Indigenous R&D, digital infrastructure, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
13. Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) Achal
Context
Fifth FPV ‘Achal’ delivered to Indian Coast Guard by Goa Shipyard.
Important Points:
- Role: Offshore asset protection, surveillance, and maritime security.
- Features: Advanced navigation and communication systems.
14. Rinderpest
Context
ICAR-NIHSAD recognized as a Category A Rinderpest Holding Facility.
Important Points:
- About Rinderpest: Viral cattle disease, eradicated globally (second after smallpox).
- Significance: India’s role in global veterinary research and disease surveillance.