Daily Current Affairs 2025  

15/11/2025

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CA-15/11/2025

• Birsa Munda (1875–1900) was a revered Indian tribal freedom fighter, religious leader, and folk hero who led a significant independence movement against British colonial rule.
• He is often referred to by tribal communities as "Dharti Aaba" (Father of the Earth) and "Bhagwan" (God). 
• Munda Rebellion (Ulgulan): Birsa Munda is most famous for spearheading the Munda Rebellion, or Ulgulan (The Great Tumult), in the late 19th century. This movement was a fierce uprising against British oppression, including unfair land-grabbing practices by local landlords (zamindars) and the restrictive Forest Laws that denied tribals access to their traditional lands.
• Advocacy for Tribal Rights: He united various tribal communities, including the Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes, under the banner of an independent Munda Raj. His struggle played a crucial role in the eventual passing of the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act in 1908, which restricted the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals and banned forced labor.
• Social and Religious Reform: Birsa Munda also acted as a social and religious reformer, urging his people to return to their traditional customs, reject the Christian missionaries' conversion activities, and adhere to a code of conduct.
• "Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas": In recognition of his pivotal role in India's freedom struggle, the Government of India declared his birthday, November 15, as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas' (Tribal Pride Day). This date also marks the formation day of the state of Jharkhand, which was created in his honor in 2000. 

• PM Modi took to social media to emphasize the “unparalleled contribution” of Birsa Munda in protecting the pride of the motherland, calling him “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth).
• The Prime Minister extended greetings to the people of Jharkhand on their state's foundation day, acknowledging the state’s rich tribal culture and the legacy of Birsa Munda.
• A major national ceremony marking the 150th birth anniversary was held in Gujarat’s Narmada district, presided over by PM Modi, with the announcement of development projects worth over 9,700 crore for the state.
• The day was marked by cultural programs, exhibitions, and a special play depicting Birsa Munda’s life and legacy, with wide participation from tribal communities.

• Birsa Munda, born in 1875 in what is now Jharkhand, led the Ulgulan movement against British colonial rule and inspired tribal communities to fight for land rights and social reform.
• The year 2025 is observed as “Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh”—a year dedicated to honoring tribal heritage and acknowledging the contributions of tribal leaders in India’s history.
• Across the country, the milestone has led to a renewed focus on tribal rights, heritage, and discussions about uplifting marginalized communities through government initiatives.

• Alongside the Prime Minister, President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, and other senior leaders paid tributes to Birsa Munda, with floral offerings and commemorative events held at various locations.
• The celebrations underscored Birsa Munda’s enduring influence as a symbol of courage, resistance to injustice, and empowerment for India’s tribal communities.

• Conceptualized as a mechanism to provide higher-level science and technology intervention and support tailored for rural areas, focusing on bridging technology gaps at the grassroots level.
• Operates through centers based in seven IITs: Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, and Roorkee. These centers collaborate with NGOs, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), community organizations, startups, and technology incubators.
• The initiative is demand-driven, identifying and solving specific technological problems faced by rural communities to improve livelihoods, reduce drudgery, enhance productivity, and promote local resource management.
• Activities include technology upgradation, design improvement, training, demonstrations, and the development of affordable, locally adapted technologies in sectors like agriculture, water management, healthcare, renewable energy, and cottage industries.
• RuTAG is not a major funding mechanism but acts as a synergizing and catalyzing agent that facilitates technology development and dissemination at the grassroots level.

• Technology Development and Upgradation: To develop, adapt, and upgrade existing traditional rural technologies and practices to make them more efficient, productive, and user-friendly.
• Enhancing Livelihoods: To reduce drudgery (hard work), create employment opportunities, and improve the income and quality of life for rural occupational groups such as farmers, artisans, and small traders.
• Identifying Rural Needs: To collaborate with stakeholders like Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and community organizations to identify location-specific, grassroots technological problems.
• Capacity Building and Dissemination: To provide training, demonstrations, and technical support to end-users to ensure the effective adoption and maintenance of new technologies.
• Networking and Synergy: To establish networks and synergy between experts at technical institutions (primarily IITs), R&D organizations, and field-level S&T NGOs for technology development and delivery.
• Promoting Sustainability: To foster environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy solutions and waste management techniques. 

• Commercialization and Scale: Translating successful innovations into market-ready products with a focus on commercialization and wider dissemination for greater socio-economic impact.
• Entrepreneurship: Promoting rural entrepreneurship through innovations and establishing RuTAG Smart Village Centres to serve as hubs for technology deployment and training. 

• Poor hygiene: An infected person not washing their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and then handling food or objects.
• Contaminated sources: Drinking untreated water or eating raw shellfish, fruits, and vegetables from areas with poor sanitation.
• Close contact: Living with, caring for, or having sex with an infected person. 

• Fever and fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially near the liver
• Dark-colored urine and pale or clay-colored stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
• Joint pain and itching 

• Diagnosis is confirmed by a blood test that detects HAV-specific IgM antibodies, which indicate a current infection. 
• There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis A. Management focuses on supportive care to relieve symptoms, ensure adequate nutrition, and maintain hydration. Doctors recommend rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding alcohol and other substances that may damage the liver, such as acetaminophen, until fully recovered. In rare, severe cases, acute liver failure can occur, which may require hospitalization or a liver transplant. 

• The Electronics Development Fund (EDF) is an initiative by the Government of India, launched primarily to promote innovation, research and development (R&D), and entrepreneurship in the sectors of electronics, nano-electronics, and information technology.
• Instituted under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), it was formally launched on February 15, 2016, as a key part of India's Digital India and Make in India programs.
• EDF functions as a "Fund of Funds," meaning it does not invest directly in startups but supports professionally managed daughter funds (venture capital funds, angel funds)that provide risk capital to startups and early-stage companies engaged in advanced technology development, product design, and intellectual property creation within electronics and IT domains.
• The fund's goal is to build a self-sustaining electronics ecosystem in India, reduce import dependency, and position the country as a global hub for electronics design, manufacturing, and innovation.

• Promote innovation and research & development (R&D) in electronics, nano-electronics, and information technology by supporting market-driven and industry-led innovation.
• Support professionally managed Daughter Funds such as early-stage angel and venture funds that provide risk capital to startups and companies developing new technologies.
• Encourage product and technology development by nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting companies involved in creating new products, processes, and technologies within India.
• Strengthen India's domestic design capabilities in the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector to enhance indigenous innovation and reduce import dependence.
• Build a national intellectual property resource pool by generating strong ownership of innovation within the country.
• Facilitate strategic acquisitions of foreign technologies and companies, especially where products are currently imported in large volumes, to promote self-reliance.
• Support the growth of startups and early-stage companies in high technology sectors such as semiconductors, embedded systems, IoT, AI, robotics, nanotechnology, and renewable energy.
• Foster entrepreneurship, private investment, and job creation in deep-tech and high-technology areas.
• Reduce import dependency and strengthen India's position in the global electronics value chain by nurturing a self-sustaining ecosystem.

• The system includes multiple AUVs equipped with side scan sonar and underwater cameras for real-time detection.
• Deep learning-based onboard target recognition algorithms enable autonomous classification, reducing operator workload.
• An underwater acoustic communication network allows seamless data exchange between the AUVs, enhancing coordination and situational awareness.
• It offers rapid response capabilities with minimal logistical footprint and reduced operational risk to naval personnel.
• The vehicles are designed for autonomous operation with multi-AUV coordination.

• Primarily used for mine countermeasure (MCM) missions in naval operations.
• Their man-portable design allows quick deployment from small boats or shore.
• Indian development of these vehicles represents a significant advancement in indigenous underwater defence technology.
• These MP-AUVs have undergone successful field trials validating their effectiveness in detection, classification, and communication.

• Origin: The river originates in the Nandi Hills (Nandidurg) in the Chikkaballapura district of Karnataka at an elevation of about 800-1400 meters.
• Course and Length: It flows southeastward for a total length of approximately 348 km (216 miles).
  • Karnataka: 93 km
  • Andhra Pradesh: 33 km
  • Tamil Nadu: 222 km

• Mouth: The river drains into the Bay of Bengal near Vayalur, south of Chennai.
• Tributaries: The chief tributary is the Cheyyar River, while others include the Ponnai, Malattar, and Agaram.
• Characteristics: The Palar is a rain-fed river, with flow highly dependent on monsoon rains. It can run dry for long periods, but heavy rains can also cause significant flooding. It flows as an underground river for a long distance before emerging near Bethamangala town in Karnataka. 

• Water Supply: The Palar river basin is a primary source of drinking water for numerous towns and villages, including parts of Chennai through reservoirs like the Poondi and Chembarambakkam lakes, and historically the Kolar Gold Fields via the Bethamangala tank.
• Irrigation: The river is crucial for agriculture in the districts it flows through, with numerous dams and anicuts (like the British-era Palar Anaicut) built to store and divert water for irrigation, benefiting thousands of farmers.
• Environmental Issues: The river faces significant challenges from sand quarrying, the discharge of untreated industrial effluents (especially from the tanning industry), and the depletion of groundwater, leading to its description as an "ecocide" by the Supreme Court in a related judgment.
• Water Disputes: The sharing of the Palar's water has been a subject of disputes between the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, often involving legal challenges regarding dam construction. 

• The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow but crucial maritime passage approximately 30 miles wide at its narrowest point, located between the Iranian coast and the Omani Musandam Peninsula.
• It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, serving as the only sea route from the oil-rich Persian Gulf to the open ocean.
• This strait is one of the world's most strategically important chokepoints, especially for global energy trade, as about 20% of the world's liquefied natural gas and 25% of seaborne oil trade pass through it daily.

• The Strait of Hormuz is vital for the global oil and gas supply chain, serving as the primary export route for petroleum products from major Gulf countries including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
• Over 20 million barrels of oil per day, roughly one-fifth of the world's oil consumption, transits the strait, making it indispensable for global energy security and economic stability.
• Due to its narrow shipping lanes and heavy maritime traffic, it is considered a chokepoint vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and military conflicts, notably involving Iran, which controls the northern coast of the strait and has occasionally threatened closure.

• The strait's location at the intersection of several countries' territorial waters and its strategic importance make it a persistent hotspot for geopolitical tension, particularly between Iran and Western powers.
• Iran's unilateral extension of territorial waters and its military presence on nearby islands enhance its control and influence over this critical passage.
• Any disruption or threat to navigation through the Strait of Hormuz can significantly impact global oil prices and energy markets.

• Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Upper Gangetic plain, near Bahraich city in Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, India.
• It covers an area of approximately 400.6 square kilometers and was established in 1975.
• In 1987, it was brought under Project Tiger and now forms part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, along with Dudhwa National Park and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary.

• The sanctuary lies in the Terai region, characterized by a mosaic of Sal and Teak forests, lush grasslands, swamps, and wetlands.?
• The Girwa River flows through the sanctuary, supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.?
• It serves as a vital corridor connecting tiger habitats in India and Nepal, especially with Bardia National Park.

• The sanctuary is home to several endangered species, including the gharial, tiger, rhinoceros, Gangetic dolphin, swamp deer, hispid hare, Bengal florican, and vultures (white-backed and long-billed).
• Other notable fauna include chital, hog deer, wild boar, leopard, jackal, langur, porcupine, otter, and various reptiles such as mugger crocodile, rock python, and king cobra.
• The sanctuary also hosts a rich avifauna, including migratory birds and species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill and Red jungle fowl.

• Katarniaghat is a core area of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and plays a crucial role in the conservation of several threatened species.
• The sanctuary offers eco-tourism activities such as jungle jeep safaris, elephant rides, river and boat safaris, and opportunities to experience the local Tharu tribal culture.
• The area is well-preserved and less crowded, making it ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Established: 1975
• Area: 400.6 sq km
• Part of: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
• Key species: Tiger, rhino, gharial, Gangetic dolphin, swamp deer, vultures
• Ecosystem: Sal and Teak forests, grasslands, swamps, wetlands
• Connectivity: Links Dudhwa and Kishanpur (India) with Bardia National Park (Nepal)

• Sickle cell disease(SCD) is a group of inherited blood disorders where red blood cells become stiff, sticky, and C-shaped (like a farm tool called a sickle) instead of round and flexible.
• These misshapen cells die prematurely and can block small blood vessels, leading to chronic anemia, severe pain episodes (pain crises or vaso-occlusive crises), and serious organ damage. 

• Inheritance: A child is born with SCD only if they inherit two copies of the abnormal gene, one from each parent.
• Sickle Cell Trait: People who inherit only one copy of the gene have "sickle cell trait" and are typically carriers who do not experience significant symptoms but can pass the gene to their children.
• High-Risk Groups: The disease is more common in people whose ancestors come from sub-Saharan Africa, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, India, and South and Central America. The high prevalence in these areas is due to the fact that the sickle cell trait offers a degree of protection against severe malaria. 

• Anemia: The rapid breakdown of sickle cells (which last only 10-20 days instead of 90-120 days) leads to a chronic shortage of red blood cells, causing fatigue, paleness, and shortness of breath.
• Pain Crises: Blocked blood flow causes sudden, severe pain in various body parts, such as the chest, back, and limbs. These episodes can last for hours to days and often require a hospital stay.
• Infections: Damage to the spleen increases the risk of serious bacterial infections, particularly in young children.
• Acute Chest Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition caused by a blockage in the lungs, resulting in chest pain, fever, and breathing difficulties.
• Stroke: Blocked blood vessels in the brain can lead to stroke, which is a major concern, especially in children.
• Organ Damage: Chronic lack of oxygen can damage nerves and organs over time, including the kidneys, liver, and heart. 

• Medications:
  • Hydroxyurea is a common medication that increases the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which prevents cells from sickling.
  • Other newer drugs like voxelotor and crizanlizumab help red blood cells flow better and reduce pain crises.
  • Pain relievers and daily antibiotics (especially for young children) are also key components of management.

• Supportive Care: Staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures and high altitudes, and getting regular vaccinations can help prevent pain crises and infections.
• Blood Transfusions: Used to treat severe anemia, prevent stroke, or manage other acute complications.
• Curative Options: Bone marrow or stem cell transplants can offer a cure for some patients, though they are complex and require a well-matched donor. Recently approved gene therapies also offer a potential cure for eligible patients. 

• Location: Uturuncu is a dormant stratovolcano located in the Sur Lípez Province, southwestern Bolivia, within the Andes Mountains.
• Height: It stands at about 6,008 meters (19,711 feet), making it the tallest mountain in the southern part of Bolivia.
• Structure: The volcano has two summit peaks about 1 km apart, separated by a saddle at 5,700 meters elevation. It consists of lava domes and lava flows, predominantly andesitic to dacitic.
• Volcano type: Stratovolcano with a complex of lava domes and lava flows, with a total volume estimated between 50 and 85 cubic kilometers.
• Last eruption: Approximately 250,000 years ago, so it is currently dormant.
• Geology: Part of the Altiplano-Puna volcanic complex, underlain at around 10-20 km depth by the Altiplano-Puna Magma Body, one of the largest known active magma bodies on Earth.
• Surface deformation: The volcano's surface shows unusual uplift centered about 5 km west of the summit, surrounded by a ring of subsidence, forming a "sombrero" deformation pattern spanning about 70 km diameter.
• Seismicity: Persistent seismic activity occurs, with 3-4 earthquakes daily and occasional earthquake swarms up to magnitude 3.7, mostly below the summit around sea level depth.
• Hydrothermal activity: There are fumarole fields near the summit with sulfur emissions and hydrothermal alteration, with temperatures up to 80°C, and hot springs on the NW flanks.
• Scientific interest: Increased scientific study since early 2000s due to ground deformation and seismicity, despite the volcano being dormant for a long time.
• Magmatic system: The deformation and seismic activity indicate a magmatic origin of uplift from magma storage or fluid movement at depth rather than imminent eruption.

• Appearance: Ambaji marble is primarily a brilliant to milky white color, often featuring subtle grey or beige natural veining and a fine, consistent texture. This gives it a luminous, elegant aesthetic.
• Durability and Composition: It is a dense, metamorphic rock composed mainly of calcium carbonate and silicon oxide. It is known for its exceptional hardness and resilience, reportedly outlasting other historical stones, such as those of the Taj Mahal.
• Maintenance: While durable, the marble is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only regular cleaning with mild soap and water. Annual sealing is recommended to maintain its shine and resistance to moisture.
• Heat Resistance: Ambaji marble absorbs less heat and remains cool even under direct sun exposure, making it suitable for various applications. 

• Original Sedimentation: The process begins with the accumulation of calcium carbonate (CaCO?) from the skeletal remains of marine organisms and other sediments in shallow, humid ocean environments. Over time, these layers compact to form limestone.
• Metamorphism: The limestone is buried and exposed to the high temperatures and pressures typically found at convergent plate boundaries or where a hot magma body intrudes the adjacent rock (contact metamorphism).
• Recrystallization: Under these extreme conditions, the original calcite mineral grains in the limestone recrystallize and grow into a dense, interlocking mosaic of larger calcite crystals. This process obscures the original sedimentary structures and fossils.
• Purity and Veining: The signature pristine white color of Ambaji marble is the result of metamorphism of a very pure limestone protolith (the original rock). Any subtle grey or beige veins or swirls are due to mineral impurities, such as clay, iron oxides, or graphite, that were present in the original limestone layers and mobilized during the heat and pressure.
• Geological Context: The marble deposits in the Ambaji region of Gujarat are part of the ancient Delhi Supergroup of meta-sedimentary rocks, which were intruded by granitic rocks (known as Erinpura granites) around 860-730 million years ago, contributing to the metamorphic conditions necessary for marble formation. 

• Flooring: Highly recommended for flooring in homes, hotels, and temples due to its durability and attractive finish.
• Countertops and Vanities: Its heat and scratch resistance makes it ideal for kitchen countertops and bathroom vanity tops.
• Architectural Accents: It is also used for wall cladding, staircases, reception desks, and external facades.
• Sculpture and Monuments: Historically and culturally significant, it has been used in the construction of numerous temples, palaces, and monuments, including the famous Ambaji Temple and the Dilwara Jain Temple. 

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