OSAT project – Assam
Why in news?
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed the project's progress on November 8, 2025, alongside Chief Minister, praising its role in transforming Northeast India's industrial landscape.
About
- Project Name: Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test (TSAT) or Tata Electronics OSAT facility, India's first indigenous greenfield semiconductor assembly and test plant.
- Location: Jagiroad, Morigaon district, Assam, on the site of the erstwhile Hindustan Paper Corporation's Nagaon Paper Mill.
- Investment: ?27,000 crore (approximately USD 3-3.6 billion), the largest private-sector investment in Northeast India.
- Capacity: Up to 48 million semiconductor chips per day using advanced packaging like wire bond, flip-chip, and system-in-package (SiP).
- Timeline: Groundbreaking on August 3, 2024; first phase commissioning targeted by April 2026; full operations by end of FY 2025-26.
- Employment: 15,000 direct jobs and 11,000-13,000 indirect jobs; includes training for local youth and women, with hands-on experience at other Tata facilities.
- Sustainability: 171-acre campus powered by renewable/green energy; abundant clean water supply and low-pollution environment.
- Applications: Chips for AI, mobile devices, automotive, IoT, and other segments; includes package design, testing, and failure analysis.
- Government Support: Part of India Semiconductor Mission (ISM, launched 2021) with 10 approved projects worth ?1.6 lakh crore; backed by ?76,000 crore PLI scheme and Assam's Electronics Policy.
- Key Milestones: Reviewed by FM Nirmala Sitharaman and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma in November 2025; aligns with Semicon 2.0 for scaled production.
- Strategic Advantages: Proximity to Southeast Asia hubs (Taiwan, Malaysia); boosts Northeast industrialization via Act East Policy; named Ratan Tata Electronics City.
G-2 framing
About
G-2 framing" most commonly refers to the emerging concept of a "G2" or "Group of Two" which signifies a potential bipolar world order dominated by the United States and China.
Key Aspects of the G-2 Concept:
- Bilateral Leadership: The core idea of G-2 is the joint leadership of the world's two largest economies, the US and China, in managing global issues.
- Origins and Rationale: This concept gained traction, especially after the 2008 global financial crisis, with the idea of "Chimerica" (China and America). The rationale behind it stems from their economic power, military strength, and significant influence on global trade and carbon emissions.
- Challenges and Non-Materialization: Despite its theoretical appeal, the G-2 framework has not fully materialized due to several factors:
- Trust Deficit: A significant gap in trust exists between the two nations.
- Strategic Rivalry: Competition in areas like the Indo-Pacific, South China Sea, and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) fuels rivalry.
- Ideological Differences: The fundamental differences between democratic and authoritarian systems create friction.
- US Concerns: Issues related to technology, trade imbalances, and security concerns plague the relationship.
- Comparison with Other Groups: Understanding G-2 also involves comparing it with other international groupings like the G8 and G20. While the G8 is dominated by advanced industrial economies, the G20 is more inclusive, representing a larger portion of global GDP and balancing developed and developing nations.
BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN)
Why in news?
In November 2025, scientists under BICAN completed the first draft of atlases of the developing human brain, mapping how different brain cells emerge, differentiate, and mature. This work is expected to aid in better understanding and tackling brain-related disorders such as autism and schizophrenia
About BICAN
The BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN) is a major collaborative project launched by the U.S. National Institutes of Health under the BRAIN Initiative, aiming to create detailed reference atlases of brain cell types across the human lifespan, including development from embryonic stages to adulthood.
Key Objectives and Scope:
- Building Reference Atlases: BICAN aims to construct detailed molecular and anatomical maps of brain cells, serving as foundational resources for neuroscience research.
- Comprehensive Cell "Parts List": A core objective is to identify and catalog the vast array of neurons and non-neuronal cells within the brain, essentially creating a detailed "parts list."
- Mapping Cell Interactions: The network also seeks to understand how these cells interact with each other, which is crucial for comprehending brain function and dysfunction in disorders.
- Multi-species Approach: BICAN generates atlases for humans, non-human primates, and mice, facilitating comparative studies and understanding evolutionary differences.
- Emphasis on Humans: While including other species, there's a significant focus on generating human brain cell atlases to better understand human cognition and neurological conditions.
- Advancing Neuroscience Research: By providing these detailed atlases, BICAN aims to accelerate discoveries in understanding brain function, behavior, and the development of new treatments for brain disorders.
China's Advanced Carrier - FUJIAN
Why in news?
China's advanced aircraft carrier Fujian is the third carrier of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and the most technologically advanced warship ever constructed for China. It was formally commissioned on November 5, 2025.
- Type 003 (Hull Number 18): China's first fully indigenously designed aircraft carrier, marking its third overall after Liaoning and Shandong.
- Dimensions: Approximately 316 meters long, 76 meters wide (flight deck), with a draught of about 9-11 meters.
- Displacement: 80,000-85,000 tonnes at full load, larger than predecessors Liaoning (60,000 tonnes) and Shandong (66,000 tonnes).
- Launch System: Equipped with three electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) for CATOBAR operations, enabling launches of heavier, fully loaded aircraft unlike prior ski-jump (STOBAR) carriers.
- Aircraft Capacity: Supports 60-70 aircraft, including J-15T fighters, J-35 stealth fighters, J-15D electronic warfare jets, and KJ-600 early-warning aircraft.
- Crew: Approximately 3,000-4,500 personnel, including air group.
- Armament: Surface-to-air missiles (SAM) and close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for defense.
Strategic Significance
- The Fujian represents a major milestone in China's naval modernization, enhancing its capacity to project air power across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond its immediate shores.
- Its advanced technology narrows the capability gap with U.S. Navy carriers, though U.S. carriers are still larger, nuclear-powered, and have greater aircraft capacity.
- The commissioning of the Fujian gives China the world's second-largest aircraft carrier fleet, behind only the United States.
Wildlife board clear 12 key project in ladakh
Why in news?
The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) recently cleared 12 key defence and paramilitary projects in high-altitude protected areas of Ladakh. These projects are considered critical for national security, especially in light of increased Chinese military assertiveness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
About
The 12 projects in Ladakh are primarily for the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and include the development of various military infrastructure.
Key projects include
- Field Ammunition Storage Facilities (FASF): Two FASFs were approved; one at Tsogtsalu in the Changthang Sanctuary (24.2 hectares) and another in the Karakoram Sanctuary (47.1 hectares).
- Brigade Headquarters: Construction of a headquarters for the 142 Infantry Brigade at Chushul, covering 40 hectares, to improve command and control near the LAC.
- Training Area: A 48.6-hectare Training Node Area at Tara in the Changthang Sanctuary to facilitate high-altitude tactical training for troops.
- Forward Posts and Camps: An artillery battery (9.46 hectares) and an Army camp (8.16 hectares) in the Karakoram Sanctuary were cleared.
- Border Outposts (BOPs): Three new ITBP border outposts were recommended at Quazi Langer, Bopsang Lungpa, and KM-156.
- Logistics Hubs: Other facilities include a forward aviation base at Shyok, a site for helicopters and UAVs at Partapur, and various housing and logistics areas.
Environmental Considerations
The projects are located in ecologically fragile cold desert ecosystems, which are home to rare and endangered species like the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, brown bear, and wild yak.
The NBWL approved these projects with strict environmental safeguards and mitigation measures to minimize ecological disturbance, including:
- The legal status of the diverted land remains unchanged (as sanctuary land).
- Construction activities are restricted to specific, approved uses.
- The inclusion of animal passage structures to ensure the safe movement of wildlife.
- Mandates for proper waste management and regulated operational timings.
The Environment Ministry has emphasized the need for utmost caution to prevent irreversible damage to the sensitive Himalayan landscape, which has extremely slow regeneration rates.
Why in news?
The centre recently notified rules for sustainable harnessing of fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), mandating Access Passes for mechanized and large motorized vessels, obtainable via the ReALCRaft portal.
About
The ReALCRaft Portal (Registration And Licensing of Fishing Craft) is a national online platform developed by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
Key points
- To develop a modern, comprehensive, and transparent vessel data management system in the country.
- To enhance security features related to fishing vessel operations.
- To create a centralized digital registry of marine fishing vessels aiding in traceability and regulation compliance.
- Integration with state-specific payment gateways (Bank/treasury) for smooth financial transactions.
- Real-time integration with security agencies (Indian Coast Guard, Navy) to record vessel movements and enhance maritime surveillance.
- Integration with Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and Export Inspection Council (EIC) for fish catch and health certification facilitating export compliance.
- Provides digital certificates replacing paperwork, enabling easy verification and reducing the risk of document loss.
This portal supports the government's blue economy vision by improving fisheries governance, boosting maritime security, assisting in sustainable fishing practices, and enhancing the livelihoods and safety of fishermen.
Melanin
Why in news?
Northwestern University researchers developed synthetic "super melanin" nanoparticles that heal skin injuries from sunburns or chemical burns by scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation when applied topically.
Key features of melanin
- Pigmentation: Melanin determines one's skin, hair, and eye color by varying its type and amount. People with darker skin have more eumelanin, while those with lighter or red hair have more pheomelanin.
- Photoprotection: Melanin protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing and dissipating over 99.9% of UV rays, preventing DNA damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
- Antioxidant defense: Melanin scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals generated by UV exposure, contributing to reduced oxidative stress and cellular damage.
- Metal ion chelation: Melanin can bind potentially toxic metal ions, protecting cells from metal-induced toxicity.
- Synthesis occurs in melanosomes inside melanocytes, where enzymes like tyrosinase regulate melanin production. The melanin is then transferred to keratinocytes in the skin.
Types of Melanin
- Melanin exists in several types, each with distinct chemical structures, locations, and functions. The primary types are eumelanin, pheomelanin, neuromelanin, allomelanin, and pyomelanin.
Health and Applications
- Melanin shows potential in anti-tumor activity, radiation protection, and photothermal therapy, with applications like MRI contrast agents.
- Excess melanin causes harmless hyperpigmentation, while deficiencies link to conditions like albinism.
- A compound was reported to induce tanning without UV exposure by stimulating melanocytes.
Imbalances in melanin production can lead to various conditions
- Albinism: A genetic disorder characterized by a lack or significant reduction of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes, often resulting in vision problems and a high susceptibility to sun damage.
- Vitiligo: An autoimmune condition where melanocytes are destroyed, leading to smooth, white patches on the skin and hair.
- Hyperpigmentation: Conditions like melasma or sunspots, where there is an excess production or uneven distribution of melanin, leading to darker patches of skin.
- Parkinson's Disease: The loss of neuromelanin-producing cells in the brain is a key feature of this neurodegenerative disorder.
Why in news?
Indian scientists uncovered a new lichen species, Allographa effusosoredica, in the Western Ghats, revealing insights into lichen symbiosis and biodiversity with molecular evidence unique to India. Additionally, researchers discovered four new lichen species in the Western Ghats, expanding knowledge of regional biodiversity.
About
- Lichens are symbiotic associations between a fungus (mycobiont) and a photosynthetic partner like algae or cyanobacteria (photobiont), forming a unique composite organism.
- The fungus provides structure and protection, while the photobiont performs photosynthesis to supply nutrients.
Types and Growth Forms
- Crustose lichens grow tightly attached to substrates like rocks.
- Foliose lichens appear leaf-like and partially detachable.
- Fruticose lichens have shrubby, branching structures.
- Other forms include squamulose (scale-like) and gelatinous (jelly-like).
Habitat and Adaptations
- Lichens thrive in extreme environments, from Arctic to tropics, covering 8% of Earth's land surface.
- They lack roots, absorb moisture directly from air, and can endure desiccation with low metabolic activity.
- Some are among the oldest living organisms, used in dating geological events.
Ecological Importance
- Lichens pioneer on bare rock, aiding soil formation and nitrogen fixation.
- They serve as air pollution bioindicators and provide food, dyes, and medicines
Why in news?
Recently, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recommended reinstating Rhesus Macaque species of monkeys under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Scientific Name and Distribution: The Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is native to South, Central, and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, China, Nepal, and Thailand.
- Physical Characteristics: Adults measure 47-64 cm in body length with a 20-30 cm tail; males weigh about 11 kg and are up to 44% larger than females at 8.5 kg; they have pink faces and ears, bright red rumps and genitals, and short, sand-colored fur.
- Diet: Primarily herbivorous and omnivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, roots, bark, cereals, insects, and small animals.
- Lifespan: 25-30 years in the wild; up to 40 years in captivity.
- Conservation and Role: Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List but face threats from predators, cold climates, and human conflicts; widely used in medical research for vaccines, aging, and diseases due to physiological similarities to humans.
Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, lists animals that are protected but may be hunted under a regulated system of permits and licenses. These species receive high protection, and their trade is prohibited.
Batten Disease
Why in news?
Researchers recently have found that male and female brains show different responses as the Batten Disease progresses and have found a model of the disease that could transform future treatments.
About
- Batten disease is a rare, inherited, and fatal neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting children.
- It belongs to a group of disorders called neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs).
- The disease causes cells, especially brain cells, to accumulate waste material instead of properly clearing it, leading to progressive symptoms such as seizures, vision loss, cognitive and motor decline, and premature death.
Types of Batten Disease
Batten disease is classified into different forms based on the age of onset of symptoms.
- Congenital NCL (CLN10): Affects babies and can cause seizures and abnormally small heads (microcephaly).
- Infantile NCL (CLN1 or INCL): Usually appears between 6 months and 2 years. Initial signs include delayed psychomotor development with progressive deterioration, motor disorders, or seizures.
- Late Infantile NCL (CLN2, LINCL, or TTP1 deficiency): Typically starts between 2 and 4 years of age. Symptoms include seizures and a gradual loss of the ability to walk and speak.
- Juvenile Batten Disease (CLN3): Typically starts between ages 4 and 7. Progressive vision loss begins, and learning and behavioral problems occur.
- Adult NCL (Kufs Disease or Parry's Disease): Generally begins before the age of 40, causes milder symptoms that progress slowly, and typically does not cause blindness.
Symptoms of Batten disease vary by type but generally include:
- Early signs: Vision loss, behavioral and personality changes, clumsiness and coordination issues, and seizures.
- Other symptoms: Cognitive decline, speech and language problems, muscle spasms, tremors, and twitches, memory loss, hallucinations and episodes of psychosis, sleep disturbances, muscle rigidity and weakness.
Diagnosis of Batten Disease
- Batten diseases are usually diagnosed by genetic testing.
- Blood tests for enzyme levels
- Electroencephalogram (EEG, a brain wave test)
- MRI of the brain
Treatment of Batten Disease
- Currently, there is no cure for Batten disease. However, there is one FDA-approved treatment for children with CLN2 Batten disease called cerliponase alfa (Brineura).
- This enzyme replacement therapy is administered via infusions directly into the fluid surrounding the brain every two weeks.
- Brineura has been shown to slow the progression of mobility symptoms, such as the loss of the ability to walk.
Why in news?
Google intends to build connectivity infrastructure including subsea cable projects linking Christmas Island to regions such as Australia, the US, Asia, Oman, and the Maldives. This will connect the island to one of the world’s largest submarine cable networks.
About
- Christmas Island is an Australian external territory located in the Indian Ocean, about 360 km south of Java and 1,400 km northwest of Australia.
- The island has an area of about 135 square kilometers and is the summit of a basalt volcanic seamount that rose about 60 million years ago.
- Its highest point is Murray Hill, which reaches 361 meters above sea level.
- The island was first sighted by Europeans in 1615 and named on Christmas Day in 1643 by Captain William Mynors.
- The main settlement and chief port is Flying Fish Cove, located on the northeastern coast.
- Phosphate deposits were discovered in the late 19th century, leading to British annexation in 1888 and the start of mining operations.
- Notable natural features include approximately 30 caves, freshwater springs, the rainforest area called The Dales, and the annual migratory event of Christmas Island red crabs.
Why in news?
A groundbreaking genomic study by researchers from Mangalore University and Yenepoya University links the Koraga tribe's ancestry to a "Proto-Dravidian" component dating back around 4,400 years, possibly tied to the Indus Valley Civilisation, refining models of Indian genetic history.
About
- Koraga are a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) primarily residing in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi districts of Karnataka, and Kasaragod district of Kerala.
- Population: 1,582 as per 2011 census (778 males, 804 females); 16,071 per 2001 census.
- Speak Koraga Bhasha (independent Dravidian language) or Tulu.
Culture and Traditions
- Traditionally basket-makers using forest materials like bamboo and creepers; historically faced discrimination as agrestic slaves.
- Practice endogamy within subdivisions (Sappina, Ande, Kappada) and clans (balis); shifting from matrilineal (Aliya Santana) to patrilineal system.
- Worship spirits (Bhutas), devas, and sun god; known for folk dances, rituals, drum-beating (dollu/dholu), and songs for harvests/epidemics.
Livelihood and History
- Depend on agriculture, forest resources, and crafts; once lived in leaf huts (koppus), now in government houses.
- Folklore links to chief Hubbashika; classified as Scheduled Tribe since 1956 with Proto-Dravidian ancestry.
DeepTech in Agriculture
Why in news?
The World Economic Forum (WEF) released a report titled "Shaping the Deep-Tech Revolution in Agriculture" in November 2025, highlighting seven key technologies to address climate challenges, resource scarcity, and food security.
About
DeepTech in agriculture refers to the application of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, computer vision, edge Internet of Things (IoT), CRISPR gene editing, nanotechnology, and satellite remote sensing to transform farming practices.
DeepTech Domains highlighted by WEF
- Generative AI: Used for planning crop cycles, predicting pest attacks, and optimizing planting schedules tailored to local conditions.
- Robotics and Drones: Automated weeding, spraying, and harvesting reduce manual labor while improving precision.
- Computer Vision: Detects crop diseases early and automates produce grading to minimize spoilage.
- Edge IoT: In-field sensors enable real-time data processing for irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, especially in low-connectivity areas.
- CRISPR: Develops crop varieties resistant to drought and pests, enhancing yields.
- Nanotechnology: Delivers fertilizers and pesticides directly to plants, minimizing waste and environmental damage.
- Satellite Remote Sensing: Enables monitoring of soil moisture and crop health for accurate farm planning.
Applications and Benefits
- Precision Farm Management: Integration of sensor and satellite data with AI models to optimize water and fertilizer use.
- Autonomous Systems: Swarm robotics work collaboratively on tasks like harvesting and weeding, supported by AI-driven autonomous crop and supply chain management.
- Carbon Reporting: AI and satellite data are used to measure soil carbon for carbon credit markets.
- Climate-Smart Agriculture: Predictive analytics help farmers adapt proactively to droughts, floods, and pest outbreaks to secure yields.
India's Context and Opportunities
- India is leveraging its robust IT sector and growing agritech ecosystem to adopt DeepTech in agriculture.
- Initiatives like the Digital Agriculture Mission and AI-based startup innovations provide tools for climate advisory, yield prediction, and farm decision-making.
- The integration of these advanced technologies has the potential to revolutionize Indian agriculture, making it more resilient and efficient.
Denmark to ban social media access for children aged under 15
Why in news?
Denmark has announced a political agreement to ban access to social media for anyone aged under 15, a measure aimed at protecting children's mental health from harmful content and commercial interests. The plan has broad political support in the Danish parliament ahead of a formal vote.
Key Details of the Proposal
- Age Limit: The general age limit for accessing social media platforms will be set at 15 years old.
- Parental Consent Exception: Parents will have the option to grant access for children as young as 13 after a "specific assessment".
- Enforcement: The government plans to use the national electronic ID system to enforce the age limit. While tech companies cannot be forced to use Denmark's specific verification app, they will be required to implement "proper age verification." Failure to do so could result in fines of up to 6% of their global income, enforced through the EU Commission under the Digital Services Act.
- Affected Platforms: The government has noted that platforms like Snapchat, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are popular among Danish children and would be affected by the ban.
- Motivation: Digitalization Minister Caroline Stage Olsen stated the move is necessary because the amount of time children spend online and the exposure to violence and self-harm content present "too great a risk".
This measure is one of the most comprehensive steps by a European Union government to limit youth social media use, following a similar move by Australia, which set a minimum age of 16 for social media access.
Question and Answer
Question 1. With reference to 'DeepTech in Agriculture', as highlighted by the World Economic Forum, consider the following statements:
1. Generative AI is primarily used for automating physical tasks like weeding and harvesting.
2. CRISPR technology aims to develop crop varieties resistant to environmental stressors.
3. Edge IoT emphasizes real-time data processing in areas with limited internet connectivity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect. Generative AI is used for planning crop cycles, predicting pest attacks, and optimizing planting schedules. Automated weeding and harvesting are typically handled by Robotics and Drones. Statements 2 and 3 are correct. CRISPR develops crop varieties resistant to drought and pests, and Edge IoT enables real-time data processing in low-connectivity areas for precision agriculture.
Question 2. The concept of 'G-2 framing' in international relations primarily refers to:
Select your answer:
A) A global alliance focused on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
B) The potential for a bipolar world order dominated by the United States and China.
C) A framework for global trade agreements between developing nations.
D) A security pact between two nuclear powers to prevent proliferation.
Explanation:
The provided text defines 'G-2 framing' as the emerging concept of a 'G2' or 'Group of Two' which signifies a potential bipolar world order dominated by the United States and China. Thus, option (b) is correct.
Question 3. Regarding China's recently commissioned aircraft carrier, Fujian, which of the following statements is most accurate?
Select your answer:
A) It is China's first aircraft carrier to be fully nuclear-powered.
B) It represents a significant technological leap for China, being its first indigenously designed carrier with an electromagnetic catapult system.
C) Its displacement makes it larger than any existing aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy.
D) It is primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare operations in the South China Sea.
Explanation:
Statement (b) is correct. Fujian is China's first fully indigenously designed aircraft carrier (Type 003) and features electromagnetic catapults (EMALS). Statement (a) is incorrect; it is not stated to be nuclear-powered. Statement (c) is incorrect; the text mentions that U.S. carriers are still larger. Statement (d) is incorrect; the Fujian enhances China's capacity to project air power, not primarily anti-submarine warfare.
Question 4. The National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) recently cleared strategic projects in Ladakh's protected areas. In this context, which of the following is NOT a stipulated environmental safeguard or consideration for such projects?
Select your answer:
A) Ensuring that the legal status of the diverted land remains as sanctuary land.
B) Restricting construction activities strictly to specific, approved uses.
C) Mandating the exclusive use of renewable energy sources for all project operations.
D) Inclusion of animal passage structures to facilitate wildlife movement.
Explanation:
Statements (a), (b), and (d) are explicitly mentioned as environmental safeguards and mitigation measures for the projects cleared by NBWL in Ladakh. Statement (c) is not listed as a mandated safeguard for these projects. While sustainability and green energy are generally encouraged, specific mandating of exclusive renewable energy for all operations was not stated as an NBWL condition for these particular projects.
Question 5. The Koraga tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) primarily found in Karnataka and Kerala, recently featured in a genomic study. Which of the following statements about the Koraga tribe is correct?
Select your answer:
A) They are known for their strong maritime traditions and deep-sea fishing.
B) Their ancestry has been linked to a 'Proto-Dravidian' component, potentially connected to the Indus Valley Civilisation.
C) They exclusively practice a matrilineal family system (Aliya Santana) to this day.
D) Their primary language is an Indo-Aryan dialect spoken widely across South India.
Explanation:
Statement (b) is correct as the genomic study links their ancestry to a 'Proto-Dravidian' component potentially tied to the Indus Valley Civilisation. Statement (a) is incorrect; they are traditionally basket-makers. Statement (c) is incorrect; they are shifting from a matrilineal to a patrilineal system. Statement (d) is incorrect; they speak Koraga Bhasha, an independent Dravidian language, or Tulu, which is also Dravidian.
Question 6. With reference to the BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN), consider the following statements:
1. It aims to create detailed reference atlases of brain cell types across the human lifespan.
2. The network focuses exclusively on mapping human brain cells to understand neurological conditions.
3. Its work is expected to aid in understanding and tackling brain-related disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. BICAN aims to create detailed reference atlases of brain cell types across the human lifespan, and this work is expected to aid in better understanding and tackling brain-related disorders. Statement 2 is incorrect; while there is a significant focus on humans, BICAN also generates atlases for non-human primates and mice, facilitating comparative studies.
Question 7. The ReALCRaft Portal, recently in news, is designed for:
Select your answer:
A) Real-time tracking of relief and rehabilitation efforts during natural disasters.
B) Registration and licensing of fishing craft for sustainable fisheries management.
C) Promoting indigenous craft and handloom products through e-commerce.
D) Facilitating land record digitization and agricultural credit disbursement.
Explanation:
The ReALCRaft Portal (Registration And Licensing of Fishing Craft) is a national online platform developed by the Department of Fisheries to manage vessel data, enhance security, create a centralized digital registry, and aid in sustainable fishing practices. Thus, option (b) is correct.
Question 8. Consider the recent developments regarding India's semiconductor industry. Which of the following statements about the Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test (TSAT) facility in Assam is/are correct?
1. It is India's first indigenous greenfield semiconductor assembly and test plant.
2. It is being established on the site of an erstwhile public sector paper mill.
3. The project aims to achieve full operational capacity by the end of FY 2025-26.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three statements are correct as per the provided information. The TSAT facility is India's first indigenous greenfield semiconductor assembly and test plant, located at Jagiroad, Morigaon district, Assam, on the site of the erstwhile Hindustan Paper Corporation's Nagaon Paper Mill, and targets full operations by the end of FY 2025-26.
Question 9. Recently, there has been a recommendation to reinstate the Rhesus Macaque under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. What does this categorization typically imply?
Select your answer:
A) The species is critically endangered and its hunting or trade is strictly prohibited without exception.
B) The species is protected but may be hunted under a regulated system of permits and licenses, with trade also prohibited.
C) The species has no specific legal protection and can be culled to manage population outbreaks.
D) The species is listed for immediate delisting due to its abundant population.
Explanation:
As per the provided information, 'Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, lists animals that are protected but may be hunted under a regulated system of permits and licenses. These species receive high protection, and their trade is prohibited.' Thus, option (b) is the correct implication.
Question 10. Christmas Island, recently in news for Google's connectivity infrastructure plans, is an external territory of which country and located in which ocean?
Select your answer:
A) United Kingdom, Atlantic Ocean
B) Australia, Indian Ocean
C) United States, Pacific Ocean
D) France, Southern Ocean
Explanation:
As per the information, Christmas Island is an Australian external territory located in the Indian Ocean. Thus, option (b) is correct.
Question 11. The establishment of India's first indigenous greenfield semiconductor assembly and test plant in Assam, as part of the India Semiconductor Mission, is strategically significant for the region primarily due to:
1. Its potential to attract substantial private-sector investment and generate employment in Northeast India.
2. Its alignment with the 'Act East Policy' by enhancing industrialization and proximity to Southeast Asian hubs.
3. The availability of abundant indigenous raw materials required for semiconductor manufacturing in Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The project is the largest private-sector investment in Northeast India, generating significant employment, and it boosts industrialization via the Act East Policy due to its proximity to Southeast Asia. Statement 3 is incorrect. While the campus is designed with sustainability (renewable energy, clean water) in mind, the text does not mention abundant indigenous raw materials in Assam specifically for semiconductor manufacturing, which typically relies on a global supply chain for highly specialized components.
Question 12. Regarding Batten disease, a rare neurodegenerative disorder, consider the following statements:
1. It is an inherited disorder characterized by the accumulation of waste material in cells, particularly brain cells.
2. The disease primarily affects adults, with symptoms often starting after the age of 40.
3. Cerliponase alfa is an FDA-approved enzyme replacement therapy for a specific type of Batten disease.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct; Batten disease is an inherited disorder causing waste material accumulation in cells. Statement 2 is incorrect; Batten disease primarily affects children, though an adult form (Kufs Disease or Parry's Disease) does exist but is generally milder and less common. Statement 3 is correct; cerliponase alfa (Brineura) is an FDA-approved treatment for CLN2 Batten disease.
Question 13. Denmark recently announced a political agreement to ban social media access for children under 15. Which of the following aspects is part of this proposed measure?
1. Parents may grant access for children as young as 13 after a specific assessment.
2. The ban will be enforced using the national electronic ID system.
3. Tech companies failing to implement proper age verification could face fines under the EU's Digital Services Act.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three statements are correct as per the provided 'Key Details of the Proposal' for Denmark's social media ban. Parents can grant access for 13-year-olds with assessment, enforcement plans to use the national electronic ID system, and non-compliant tech companies face fines under the EU's Digital Services Act.
Question 14. Consider the following statements about Melanin:
1. Eumelanin is typically associated with lighter skin tones and red hair.
2. Melanin plays a crucial role in photoprotection by absorbing UV radiation.
3. Synthetic 'super melanin' nanoparticles are being explored for healing skin injuries by scavenging free radicals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect. People with darker skin have more eumelanin, while those with lighter or red hair have more pheomelanin. Statement 2 is correct, as melanin protects from UV radiation. Statement 3 is also correct, as researchers developed synthetic 'super melanin' nanoparticles for healing skin injuries by scavenging free radicals.
Question 15. Which of the following statements best describes the ecological role and characteristics of Lichens?
Select your answer:
A) They are parasitic fungi that feed on algae, causing widespread forest diseases.
B) They are single-celled organisms found exclusively in aquatic environments, responsible for nitrogen fixation.
C) They represent a symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, acting as pioneer species and pollution bioindicators.
D) They are rooted vascular plants adapted to extreme cold deserts, forming the primary food source for many herbivores.
Explanation:
Statement (c) accurately describes lichens. They are symbiotic associations between a fungus (mycobiont) and a photosynthetic partner (photobiont), enabling them to colonize bare rock as pioneer species and serve as indicators of air pollution. The other options provide incorrect descriptions.
