Daily Current Affairs 2025  

19/12/2025

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CA-19/12/2025

Contents
1. Live‑in relationships are not a criminal offence or “illegal” 
2. Securities Markets Code Bill 2025
3. Set up unit to counter anti-India narratives: House panel to MEA
4. India-Netherlands signed a Letter of Intent (LoI)
5. LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA
6. Competition Commission of India (CCI)
7. Removing PFAS from Groundwater using Carbon-based Filter
8. Altermagnetism in RuO₂
9. Battle of Adwa
10. Exercise “Desert Cyclone II”
11. India Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarthak 
12. Kavach System
13. Annatto
14. BharatNet Project
15. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)

 

 
Why in news?
The Allahabad High Court (Justice Vivek Kumar Singh, Dec 2025) held that while live‑in relationships may not be acceptable to all, they cannot be termed “illegal” and living together without marriage does not constitute an offence.​
 
Constitutional basis and State’s duty

• The Court grounded its view in Article 21, holding that the right to human life stands on a “much higher pedestal” and cannot be denied merely because the couple is unmarried or in a non‑traditional arrangement.​
• It expressly stated that “it is the bounden duty of the State, as per the constitutional obligations cast upon it, to protect the life and liberty of every citizen,” and that police must provide immediate protection once they verify that the individuals are majors and living together voluntarily.​

Supreme Court and broader jurisprudence

• The Supreme Court has earlier clarified that live‑in relationships between consenting adults are not illegal and do not attract criminal liability merely because the couple is unmarried.​
• High Courts (including Punjab & Haryana HC) have extended protection even where one partner is already married, stressing that personal liberty and protection from tangible threats cannot be denied on grounds of morality, though this may not validate the relationship as a “marriage” in law.​

Limits and nuances

• Protection is typically granted where there is a real threat to life or liberty from family or community; courts have refused protection in some cases where an existing undissolved marriage would be directly undermined, treating that as an encroachment on the other spouse’s legal rights.​
• Courts distinguish between:
  • Criminal/illicit (not the case with consensual live‑ins between majors), and
  • Civil/moral objections, which cannot override fundamental rights to life, liberty, and choice of partner.​

 
 
   
Why in news?
The Securities Markets Code Bill 2025, introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 18, 2025, by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to consolidate and modernize India's securities laws into a unified framework. 
 
About the bill

• It repeals three key acts: the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956; SEBI Act, 1992; and Depositories Act, 1996.
• The bill has been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance for scrutiny.​
• The bill adopts a principle-based approach to simplify language, eliminate redundancies, and reduce compliance burdens while adapting to technology-driven markets.
• It seeks to enhance investor protection through mandatory charters, grievance mechanisms, and an Ombudsperson system.
• Additionally, it promotes capital mobilization to support India's growing economy by drawing more participants.​

Major Reforms

• Expands SEBI's board to up to 15 members (from 9), with requirements for interest disclosure and consultative regulation-making.​
• Decriminalizes procedural/technical violations into civil penalties and sets timelines for investigations and enforcement.​
• Strengthens Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) like stock exchanges and depositories, enabling bye-laws for non-discriminatory access and interoperability.​

Potential Challenges & Risks

• Implementation Complexity: Transitioning from three acts to one unified code may cause short-term confusion.
• Regulatory Overreach: Expanded SEBI powers could raise concerns about checks and balances.
• Market Adaptation: Intermediaries and investors will need time to adjust to new compliance norms.
• Parliamentary Scrutiny: The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee, so changes may still occur before final passage.

Old vs New Framework
 

Aspect	Old Framework (SEBI Act 1992, SCRA 1956, Depositories Act 1996) ​	New Framework (Securities Markets Code Bill 2025) ​
Legal Structure	Three separate acts with overlapping provisions and outdated language. ​	Single consolidated code repealing all three acts for uniformity and simplification. ​
SEBI Board Size	Up to 9 members including Chairperson. ​	Expanded to up to 15 members with mandatory interest disclosure. ​
Definition of Securities	Narrower, excluding some modern instruments like hybrid securities. ​	Broadened to include hybrid instruments, electronic gold receipts, and "other regulated instruments". ​
Enforcement & Violations	Mixed criminal/civil penalties; no timelines or limitation periods. ​	Decriminalizes minor/procedural violations to civil penalties; 8-year limitation for investigations; fixed timelines. ​
Investor Protection	Limited statutory grievance mechanisms. ​	Mandatory investor charters, grievance redressal, and Ombudsperson system. ​
Regulatory Process	Less consultative; no separation of fact-finding and adjudication. ​	Transparent consultative rule-making; arm's-length separation in enforcement. ​
Market Infrastructure	Limited delegation and interoperability provisions. ​	SEBI delegation to MIIs/SROs; promotes interoperability and innovation sandbox. ​

 
Legislative Status

• Introduced amid opposition from some MPs, the bill marks the first major securities law overhaul in decades, first proposed in Budget 2021-22.
• It aligns with broader reforms like Jan Vishwas 2.0 but focuses specifically on securities markets. Passage awaits committee review and parliamentary debate in the ongoing Winter Session.​

 
 
   
Why in news?
A parliamentary panel recently recommended the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to establish a dedicated unit to counter anti-India narratives, particularly amid misinformation from Bangladeshi media.​
 
Recommendation Details

• The Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Shashi Tharoor, proposed a communication and perception management unit within MEA's External Publicity & Public Diplomacy Division.
• This unit would monitor, analyze, and rebut anti-India rhetoric on issues like water sharing, border security, and cultural sensitivities, using social media trends and coordinated efforts across ministries.​

Existing Counter Measures

• India's PIB Fact Check Unit actively debunks foreign propaganda, such as during Operation Sindoor, by fact-checking posts, sharing corrections with platforms, and blocking over 1,400 URLs under Section 69A of the IT Act.
• A 24x7 inter-ministerial control room, involving defense forces and PIB, disseminated authentic information via briefings with visuals and satellite imagery to combat fake news from Pakistan.​

Broader Context

• Past actions include blocking Pakistan-based YouTube channels and websites spreading divisive content on Kashmir and minorities, as coordinated by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• These efforts highlight India's institutional focus on narrative defense without a single formalized "anti-India narratives counter unit" yet in place.​

 
 
   
Why in news?
India and the Netherlands signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) on defence cooperation on December 18, 2025, during talks in New Delhi between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel. 
 
Key Objectives

• The agreement aims to develop a Defence Industrial Roadmap for technology collaboration, co-production, and co-development of defence platforms and equipment.
• Discussions aim to elevate defence ties through structured industrial partnerships and mutual benefit opportunities.
• It emphasizes linking defence industries from both nations, particularly in niche and emerging technologies.​

Strategic Context

• Both countries reaffirmed commitment to military-to-military cooperation as a pillar of their Strategic Partnership and a free, open, rules-based Indo-Pacific.
• Discussions covered priority areas for joint development to strengthen bilateral security ties.​

 
 
   
Why in news?
The pacts have underpinned growing defense cooperation, with recent developments including a 10-year US-India Major Defence Partnership framework in October 2025 and the 10th Command Control and Compatibility Board meeting under COMCASA for platforms like C-17 aircraft in December 2025.​
 
About

• LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA represent India's foundational defense pacts with the US, signed between 2016 and 2020 to boost military interoperability.
• These agreements enable logistics support, secure communications, and intelligence sharing on a reciprocal basis without mandating troop basing or alliances.
• They reflect growing strategic trust amid Indo-Pacific dynamics.​

Comprehensive Comparison
 

Aspect	LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement)	COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement)	BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement)
Signing Date	August 2016 ​	September 2018 ​	October 2020 ​
US Equivalent	Logistics Support Agreement (LSA) ​	Communications Interoperability and Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) ​	GSIL (General Services Information Agreement) or earlier geospatial pacts ​
Primary Focus	Reciprocal logistics: refueling, repairs, supplies at bases/ports ​	Secure encrypted communications for interoperability ​	Sharing high-precision geospatial intelligence for targeting/navigation ​
Key Benefits	Navy-to-Navy support; access to global facilities (reimbursable) ​	Real-time secure data links for aircraft/ships in peace/war; enables advanced US tech access ​	Improved missile accuracy, surveillance; no sensitive source compromise ​
Duration/Validity	Indefinite (reciprocal use) ​	10 years ​	10 years (standard for such pacts) ​
Strategic Impact	Builds trust via asset exposure; eases HADR/exercises ​	Paves way for comms equipment transfer ​	Enhances ops amid LAC tensions; completes troika ​

 
Why These Agreements Matter?

• Interoperability: Together, they allow Indian and U.S. forces to operate seamlessly during joint missions.
• Technology Access: India gains access to advanced U.S. defense technologies and encrypted systems.
• Strategic Balance: Strengthens India’s position in the Indo-Pacific against rising Chinese influence.
• Operational Support: LEMOA ensures logistical ease, COMCASA secures communications, and BECA enhances precision targeting.

Risks & Challenges

• Sovereignty Concerns: Critics argue these agreements may compromise India’s strategic autonomy.
• Dependence on U.S. Systems: Heavy reliance on American technology could limit India’s independent defense choices.
• Geopolitical Sensitivity: China and Russia view these agreements as India aligning too closely with the U.S. bloc.

 
 
   
Why in news?
CCI took cognizance on December 18, 2025, of a complaint against IndiGo for mass flight cancellations, assessing potential abuse of dominance given the airline's market position. The regulator will proceed based on initial assessment amid IndiGo's operational recovery.​
 
About

• CCI was formed under the Competition Act, 2002, on October 14, 2003, by the Central Government under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, becoming fully operational in May 2009.
• It replaced the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission, aligning with post-1991 economic liberalization recommendations from the Raghavan Committee.​

Composition

• The Commission comprises a Chairperson and six members, appointed by the Central Government based on at least 15 years of expertise in fields like law, economics, or international trade.
• Members serve a five-year term, with headquarters in New Delhi.​

Key Functions

• CCI eliminates practices adversely affecting competition, sustains market competition, protects consumer interests, and ensures trade freedom.​
• Inquires into anti-competitive agreements (Section 3) and abuse of dominant position (Section 4).​
• Regulates mergers and acquisitions (combinations under Sections 5-6) that may harm competition.​
• Conducts advocacy, provides opinions to regulators, and imposes penalties.​

Objectives

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) serves as the primary statutory body regulating competition in India.
• It enforces laws to prevent anti-competitive practices and promote fair market dynamics.​
• The body fosters efficient resource use, consumer welfare, and inclusive economic growth while aligning sectoral regulations with competition law.

 
 
   
Why in news?
A recent field study highlights a carbon-based filter using colloidal carbon product (CCP) for effective PFAS removal from contaminated groundwater. This in-situ method injects ultra-fine carbon underground to create a permeable treatment zone, trapping "forever chemicals" without invasive surface treatments.​
 
Key advantages and considerations
Advantages:

• Lower operational footprint: Minimal above-ground infrastructure compared to pump-and-treat.
• Scalable deployment: Injectable format supports rapid installation across heterogeneous aquifers.
• Cost and time benefits: Reduced O&M and faster mitigation of exposure pathways.

Considerations:

• Breakthrough and saturation: Sorbent capacity must be monitored; replacement or re-injection may be required over time.
• PFAS diversity: Effectiveness can vary across short-chain vs. long-chain PFAS—media selection and design are critical.
• Regulatory integration: Verification via performance monitoring and alignment with cleanup standards is necessary

PFAS & the Challenge

• PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances): Synthetic “forever chemicals” used in non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, textiles, packaging.
• Problem: Extremely persistent due to strong C–F bonds, bioaccumulative, linked to health risks (cancer, thyroid, immune disruption).
• Groundwater contamination: A major exposure pathway, especially near airports, industrial clusters, and landfills.

Carbon-Based Filter Technology

• Mechanism: Engineered activated carbon (granular or powdered) adsorbs PFAS molecules as groundwater flows through.
• In situ application: Carbon is injected underground to form a permeable reactive barrier (PRB).
• Outcome: PFAS plumes are intercepted, concentrations reduced before reaching drinking water sources

 
   
Why in news?
Ruthenium dioxide (RuO₂) is the pioneering material where altermagnetism—a newly recognized third fundamental class of magnetism—has been experimentally demonstrated. Unlike ferromagnets or antiferromagnets, altermagnets show zero net magnetization in real space but anisotropic spin splitting in momentum space, making RuO₂ a promising candidate for next-generation spintronics and memory devices.
 
What is Altermagnetism?

• Definition: A novel magnetic order where spins are collinear but arranged such that the material has no net magnetization while still breaking spin degeneracy in momentum space.
• Contrast with other magnetisms:
  • Ferromagnetism: Spins align, producing net magnetization.
  • Antiferromagnetism: Spins cancel out, with no spin splitting in momentum space.
  • Altermagnetism: Spins cancel out in real space but still cause momentum-dependent spin splitting.

RuO₂ as the Prototype Altermagnet

• Discovery: RuO₂ was the first material where altermagnetism was predicted and later confirmed experimentally.
• Thin Films: Recent studies show RuO₂ thin films exhibit altermagnetism, verified using X-ray magnetic linear dichroism and spin orientation mapping.
• Unique Properties:
  • Zero net magnetization → no stray fields.
  • Strong spin splitting → useful for spintronic devices.
  • Robust against external magnetic noise compared to ferromagnets.

Applications & Technological Promise

• Spintronics: Enables efficient spin current manipulation without stray fields.
• Memory Devices: Potential to overcome limitations of magnetic random-access memory (MRAM) based on ferromagnets.
• Quantum Materials Research: Offers a platform to study unconventional magnetism and symmetry-breaking phenomena.

Challenges & Research Directions

• Material Engineering: Controlling strain, doping, and thin-film orientation to stabilize altermagnetic order.
• Scalability: Integrating RuO₂ into device architectures.
• Fundamental Physics: Understanding how altermagnetism interacts with superconductivity and topological states.

 
   
Why in news?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently paid tribute at the Adwa Victory Monument in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, commemorating the historic Battle of Adwa from 1896. This event highlights ongoing diplomatic recognition of the battle's legacy in resisting colonialism.​
 
About Battle of Adwa

• The Battle of Adwa was a decisive clash on March 1, 1896, during the First Italo-Ethiopian War, where Ethiopian forces under Emperor Menelik II defeated an Italian army led by General Oreste Baratieri near the town of Adwa in northern Ethiopia.
• This victory preserved Ethiopia's independence amid Europe's Scramble for Africa. It remains a symbol of African resistance to colonialism.​

Background

• Italy sought to expand its East African colony of Eritrea into Ethiopia after misinterpreting the 1889 Treaty of Wuchale, prompting Menelik II to mobilize around 100,000 troops with rifles, spears, and cavalry.
• Baratieri's 15,000-20,000 Italian and colonial forces faced supply shortages and pressure from Rome to attack.
• Ethiopian unity, led by Menelik and Empress Taytu, was key to their numerical superiority.​

Significance
Adwa halted Italian expansion and inspired anti-colonial movements across Africa and the diaspora. Ethiopia celebrated it annually as a national holiday until 2021, underscoring unity and military prowess.​
 
 
   
Why in news?
Exercise “Desert Cyclone II” is the second edition of the India–UAE joint military drill, held in Abu Dhabi from 18–30 December 2025, involving mechanised infantry units from both nations.
 
Key facts

• Host Country: United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi)
• Dates: 18–30 December 2025
• Participants:
  • India: 45 personnel from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment
  • UAE: 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, UAE Land Forces
• Edition: Second (the first was held in 2024)
• Focus: Sub-conventional operations in urban environments under UN mandate

Objectives

• Interoperability: Train Indian and UAE forces to operate seamlessly together.
• Urban Warfare Skills: Practice Fighting in Built-Up Areas (FIBUA), crucial for modern conflict zones.
• Peacekeeping & Stability Ops: Prepare for missions aligned with UN peacekeeping frameworks.
• Counter-Terrorism: Joint drills to tackle asymmetric threats in urban settings.
• Military Diplomacy: Strengthen strategic ties and defence cooperation between India and UAE.

Strategic Implications

• Regional Security: Reinforces India’s growing defence partnerships in the Gulf region, complementing broader diplomatic and economic ties.

• Defence Diplomacy: Builds trust and operational synergy with UAE, a key energy and trade partner.
• Future Outlook: Likely to expand into trilateral or multilateral exercises, involving other Gulf or UN peacekeeping contributors.

 
 
   
Why in news?
ICGS Sarthak, an Offshore Patrol Vessel of the Indian Coast Guard, recently made its first-ever port call at Chabahar, Iran, from December 16-19, 2025, as part of an overseas deployment to Gulf countries. 
 
About ICGS Sarthak

• ICGS Sarthak is a Samarth-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Indian Coast Guard, commissioned on October 28, 2021, at Goa Shipyard Limited.
• It serves as a multi-mission platform for EEZ surveillance, coastal security, search and rescue, and pollution response.​

Specifications

• The ship measures 105 meters in length, displaces around 2,450 tonnes, and achieves a maximum speed of 26 knots with two 9,100 kW diesel engines, offering a range of over 6,000 nautical miles.
• It features an integrated bridge system, high-power external firefighting capabilities, and space for a twin-engine helicopter plus multiple high-speed boat.​

Builder and Series

• Constructed indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited, ICGS Sarthak is the fourth of five follow-on OPVs in the series, enhancing ICG's patrol capabilities post-2008 Mumbai attacks.
• It accommodates 11 officers and 110 personnel, with advanced sensors and weapons for diverse operations.​

 
 
   
Why in news?
Over 2,000 route kilometers of the Kavach system have been commissioned as of December 2025, with installations on 4,154 locomotives. 
 
What is Kavach?

• Kavach is India's indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, designed by the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) in collaboration with Indian firms.
• It automatically applies brakes if a loco pilot fails to act, ensures trains run within speed limits
• It enhances railway safety by preventing collisions and signal violations.
• Initially called the Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), it was adopted as the National ATP in 2020.
• Certification: Achieved Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4), the highest safety certification for such systems.

How Kavach Works

• Collision Avoidance: Prevents head-on, rear-end, and side collisions by automatically controlling train movement.
• Speed Monitoring: Ensures trains stay within prescribed speed limits.
• Automatic Braking: Applies brakes if the driver fails to respond.
• Weather Safety: Helps trains run safely even in poor visibility or adverse weather.
• Components:
  • Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) laid along tracks (7,129 km completed).
  • Telecom towers (860 installed).
  • Data centres connecting 767 stations.
  • Trackside equipment across 3,413 km.
  • 4,154 locomotives equipped.

Impact So Far

• Coverage: Over 2,000 km of rail network already under Kavach.
• Accident Reduction: Rail accidents have declined by ~90% since 2014, attributed to safety upgrades like Kavach.
• Cost Advantage: Promoted as one of the cheapest ATP systems worldwide, making it scalable for India’s vast rail network.

Challenges & Considerations

• Complex Deployment: Requires extensive infrastructure (OFC, towers, data centres).
• Training Needs: Loco pilots and staff must undergo detailed training.
• Scaling Up: India’s rail network is over 68,000 km, so full rollout will take time.
• Maintenance: High-tech systems demand continuous monitoring and upkeep.

 
 
   
Why in news?
CSIR–Central Food Technological Research Institute in Mysuru advanced annatto processing for food and non-food uses, highlighting its industrial potential as a colorant. This builds on efforts like annatto seed separators for dairy coloring.​
 
Origin and Production

• Annatto is a natural orange-red dye and condiment derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), native to tropical regions of the Americas.​
• The achiote tree produces spiny pods containing seeds coated in a pigment-rich pulp, which is extracted to create annatto in forms like powder, paste, or oil.
• This pigment, primarily bixin, gives foods a yellow-to-orange hue and has a slightly peppery, nutty flavor.​

Common Uses

• Annatto colors cheeses, butter, yogurt, sausages, snacks, and baked goods as a synthetic-free alternative approved by the FDA and EU.
• It also flavors dishes in Latin American, Caribbean, and Filipino cuisines.​

Health Aspects

• Rich in antioxidants like carotenoids and tocotrienols, annatto may support eye health, reduce inflammation, and offer antimicrobial benefits, though human studies are limited.
• Rare allergies occur, and it may affect blood sugar, so caution is advised for diabetics.​

 
 
   
About BharatNet Project

• BharatNet is India’s flagship rural broadband initiative, aiming to connect all 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats with affordable, high-speed internet, bridging the digital divide between urban and rural communities.
• It is the world’s largest rural telecom project, executed in phases by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) under the Ministry of Communications.

Overview of BharatNet

• Launch & Approval: Approved by the Union Cabinet in October 2011; SPV BBNL incorporated in February 2012.
• Objective: Provide non-discriminatory broadband access to telecom operators, ISPs, cable TV operators, and content providers.
• Scope: Covers 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across India, making it the backbone of Digital India.
• Vision: Enable services like e-health, e-education, e-governance, and digital financial inclusion in rural areas.

Phase	Timeline	Key Features
Phase I	Started 2011	Optical fiber laid to connect ~1 lakh Gram Panchayats.
Phase II	Expanded post-2016	Extended coverage to remaining Gram Panchayats; focus on last-mile connectivity.
Phase III	Ongoing (2025)	Deployment of advanced IP routing gear, expansion to 9 states & 5 UTs (e.g., Bihar, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, MP, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur).

 
Significance

• Digital Empowerment: Reduces rural-urban digital divide.
• Economic Growth: Facilitates entrepreneurship, digital payments, and rural e-commerce.
• Social Impact: Improves access to healthcare, education, and government services.
• Inclusivity: Empowers marginalized communities by ensuring affordable connectivity.

Challenges & Risks

• Infrastructure delays: Fiber laying in remote areas faces logistical hurdles.
• Maintenance & sustainability: Ensuring uptime in rural terrains is costly.
• Adoption gap: Digital literacy and affordability remain barriers.
• Private sector participation: Success depends on telecom operators leveraging BharatNet infrastructure effectively.

 
   
Why in news?
In December 2025 Lok Sabha discussions, officials emphasized AHIDF's role alongside dairy expansion plans for 75,000 new cooperatives. A Rajya Sabha response confirmed ₹10,320 crore sanctions, with under-utilization noted in states like Madhya Pradesh due to low applications.
 
About
The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) is a ₹15,000 crore credit facility launched under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to boost dairy, meat, and animal feed infrastructure in India. It provides loans with 3% interest subvention, a 2-year moratorium, and repayment over 8 years.

About AHIDF

• Launched by: Government of India, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying
• Corpus: ₹15,000 crore fund
• Objective: Strengthen livestock sector infrastructure, improve farmers’ income, and promote entrepreneurship

Eligible Beneficiaries

• Individual entrepreneurs
• MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises)
• Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs)
• Section 8 companies (non-profit)
• Private companies and dairy cooperatives

Activities Supported

• Dairy processing & value addition infrastructure (milk chilling, processing plants, packaging units)
• Meat processing units (modern slaughterhouses, cold chain facilities)
• Animal feed plants (balanced feed, mineral mixtures, silage making units)

Financial Benefits

• Loan coverage: Up to 90% of project cost from scheduled banks/NABARD/NCDC/NDDB/SIDBI
• Interest subvention: 3% for 8 years
• Moratorium: 2 years on repayment
• Collateral-free loans: Possible under Credit Guarantee Fund
• No ceiling on loan amount: Flexibility for large projects

Impact & Progress

• Over ₹4,710 crore sanctioned project cost and ₹3,270 crore sanctioned loan amount so far
• Designed to increase price realization for producers and reduce wastage in dairy/meat supply chains

Risks & Considerations

• Implementation challenges: Timely loan disbursement and project monitoring are critical.
• Market linkage: Infrastructure must align with demand; otherwise, units risk underutilization.
• Compliance: Beneficiaries must follow strict SOPs and avoid fraudulent practices.
• Sustainability: Projects should integrate eco-friendly practices to avoid long-term environmental costs.

 
 
 
 
Question & Answer
 
 
Question 1. The BharatNet Project is designed to connect all Gram Panchayats using optical fiber. Which of the following services is a key social objective enabled by this high-speed rural broadband backbone?
 
Select your answer:
A) Mandatory migration of all rural banking to digital-only transactions.
B) Provision of dedicated satellite communication links for defense establishments in remote areas.
C) Facilitation of e-health, e-education, and digital financial inclusion in rural areas.
D) Exclusive rights for state-owned telecom operators to provide last-mile services.
 
Explanation: (C)
The core vision of BharatNet is to bridge the digital divide by enabling essential digital services like e-health, e-education, and e-governance in rural communities.
 
 
Question 2. The historical Battle of Adwa in 1896 holds significance primarily because it resulted in which major outcome during the Scramble for Africa?
 
Select your answer:
A) The formal partition of the Horn of Africa between Italy and Great Britain.
B) The successful internal unification of Ethiopian provinces under a centralized federal structure.
C) The decisive defeat of a European colonial power by an indigenous African army, preserving national independence.
D) The signing of the Treaty of Wuchale, leading to Ethiopian membership in the early League of Nations.
 
Explanation: (C)
The Battle of Adwa resulted in the defeat of the Italian army by Ethiopian forces under Menelik II, which preserved Ethiopia's independence and made it a powerful symbol of African resistance against European colonialism.
 
 
Question 3. The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) aims to support infrastructure development in dairy, meat, and animal feed sectors. Which feature is a key financial incentive offered under this scheme for eligible beneficiaries?
 
Select your answer:
A) Automatic grant of 50% of the project cost without requiring repayment.
B) A mandatory 3% interest subvention for a period of 8 years, along with a 2-year moratorium.
C) Provision of collateral-free loans exclusively for individual entrepreneurs, excluding FPOs.
D) Direct equity participation by the Government of India up to 20% in all sanctioned projects.
 
Explanation: (B)
AHIDF provides eligible beneficiaries (including FPOs, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs) with a 3% interest subvention for 8 years and a 2-year moratorium on loan repayment, acting as a credit facility.
 
 
Question 4. The recent interpretation by the Allahabad High Court regarding live-in relationships primarily grounds the State's duty to protect the individuals involved in such arrangements on which specific fundamental right?
 
Select your answer:
A) Right to Equality (Article 14)
B) Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19)
C) Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21)
D) Right against exploitation (Article 23)
 
Explanation: (C)
The Allahabad High Court explicitly grounded its view on Article 21, emphasizing that the right to human life and liberty stands on a high pedestal and mandates the State to protect consenting adults in live-in relationships, irrespective of marital status.
 
 
Question 5. India's foundational defense pacts with the USA—LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA—primarily serve to enhance which aspect of the bilateral defense relationship?
 
Select your answer:
A) Joint deployment of troops under a unified command structure
B) Reciprocal logistics support, secure communications, and geospatial intelligence sharing
C) Mandatory transfer of US defense technology patents to India
D) Establishment of US military bases on Indian territory for joint operations
 
Explanation: (B)
LEMOA facilitates logistics, COMCASA ensures secure communications compatibility, and BECA allows for sharing high-precision geospatial intelligence. Together, they enhance military interoperability without mandating troop basing or alliances.
 
 
Question 6. The Securities Markets Code Bill, 2025, seeks to consolidate India's securities framework by repealing which set of primary acts?
 
Select your answer:
A) Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956; RBI Act, 1934; and FEMA, 1999
B) Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956; SEBI Act, 1992; and Depositories Act, 1996
C) Companies Act, 2013; SEBI Act, 1992; and SCRA, 1956
D) SEBI Act, 1992; Banking Regulation Act, 1949; and SCRA, 1956
 
Explanation: (B)
The Securities Markets Code Bill 2025 aims to consolidate the provisions of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 (SCRA), the SEBI Act, 1992, and the Depositories Act, 1996, into a single code.
 
 
Question 7. The parliamentary committee's recommendation for the MEA to set up a unit to counter anti-India narratives is specifically aimed at managing misinformation related to which area, among others?
 
Select your answer:
A) Cross-border digital currency flow and money laundering
B) Water sharing, border security, and cultural sensitivities
C) Trade disputes concerning agricultural imports
D) Cyber espionagee activities originating from state actors
 
Explanation: (B)
The proposed unit is intended to monitor and rebut anti-India rhetoric specifically concerning sensitive bilateral issues like water sharing, border security, and cultural issues, with specific reference made to misinformation from Bangladeshi media.
 
 
Question 8. The indigenous Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, which has recently reached over 2,000 route km coverage, is distinguished by achieving which crucial safety certification level?
 
Select your answer:
A) Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL-2)
B) Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL-3)
C) Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4)
D) International Safety Standard (ISS) 9001
 
Explanation: (C)
Kavach has achieved Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4), which is the highest safety certification required for train protection systems, indicating its robust capability to prevent collisions and signal violations.
 
 
Question 9. The innovative method for removing Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from groundwater involves injecting an ultra-fine carbon product in-situ. Which key environmental advantage does this approach offer over traditional surface treatment methods?
 
Select your answer:
A) It converts PFAS into harmless soluble compounds via catalytic degradation.
B) It eliminates the need for extensive excavation and reduces the operational footprint above ground.
C) It is effective against short-chain PFAS variants where other sorbents fail.
D) It utilizes nanotechnology to achieve instantaneous degradation of the carbon-fluorine bonds.
 
Explanation: (B)
The in-situ carbon-based filter method injects material underground, creating a treatment zone, which significantly lowers the operational footprint and avoids invasive surface treatments associated with pump-and-treat systems.
 
 
Question 10. Annatto, currently receiving attention for industrial processing, is a natural colorant primarily derived from the seeds of which plant species?
 
Select your answer:
A) Curcuma longa (Turmeric)
B) Bixa orellana (Achiote tree)
C) Crocus sativus (Saffron)
D) Capsicum annuum (Chilli)
 
Explanation: (B)
Annatto is the natural orange-red dye derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, scientifically known as Bixa orellana, native to tropical regions of the Americas.
 
 
Question 11. While courts generally extend protection to consenting adults in live-in relationships under Article 21, which situation is cited as a reason for courts sometimes refusing protection?
 
Select your answer:
A) If both partners are below the age of 25 years.
B) If the relationship lacks the formal registration recognized by local municipal bodies.
C) If the protection sought would directly undermine the existing, undissolved marriage of one of the partners, infringing on the other spouse's legal rights.
D) If the couple resides in a state where live-in relationships are specifically banned by state ordinance.
 
Explanation: (C)
Courts have drawn a nuance where, while protecting life and liberty, they may refuse protection if granting it directly encroaches upon the existing legal rights of an already married spouse, distinguishing it from mere moral objection.
 
 
Question 12. Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone II’ conducted between India and the UAE focused specifically on enhancing synergy in which operational domain?
 
Select your answer:
A) Maritime domain awareness and anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Oman.
B) Sub-conventional operations, particularly Fighting in Built-Up Areas (FIBUA) under UN mandate.
C) Large-scale conventional warfare maneuvers involving armored divisions.
D) Joint air defense drills involving integrated surface-to-air missile batteries.
 
Explanation: (B)
Desert Cyclone II specifically focused on practicing sub-conventional operations and Fighting in Built-Up Areas (FIBUA), which are crucial skills for peacekeeping and urban conflict scenarios.
 
 
Question 13. The recent action by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against an airline for mass flight cancellations concerns the assessment of potential abuse of which provision under the Competition Act, 2002?
 
Select your answer:
A) Anti-competitive agreements between competing enterprises (Section 3)
B) Regulation of combinations/mergers (Sections 5 and 6)
C) Abuse of a dominant position (Section 4)
D) Exemption for agreements promoting efficiency (Section 9)
 
Explanation: (C)
The CCI took cognizance due to potential abuse of dominance, which falls under Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002, given the airline's established market position.
 
 
Question 14. The Letter of Intent (LoI) signed between India and the Netherlands in December 2025 focuses on developing a Defence Industrial Roadmap. What is the primary goal of this roadmap?
 
Select your answer:
A) Establishing joint naval patrols across the Indian Ocean Region exclusively.
B) Structuring collaboration for technology transfer, co-production, and co-development of defence platforms.
C) Implementing a ten-year framework for US-India Major Defence Partnership activities in Europe.
D) Standardizing communication protocols based on NATO guidelines for UN peacekeeping missions.
 
Explanation: (B)
The LoI aims to develop a structured Defence Industrial Roadmap specifically targeting collaboration in technology, co-production, and co-development of defence platforms and equipment.
 
 
Question 15. Ruthenium dioxide ($ ext{RuO}_2$) has gained prominence as the first material confirmed to exhibit altermagnetism. What is the defining characteristic of altermagnetism that makes it technologically promising compared to conventional antiferromagnetism?
 
Select your answer:
A) It possesses a net magnetic moment in real space, allowing strong magnetic memory storage.
B) It exhibits zero net magnetization in real space but shows anisotropic spin splitting in momentum space.
C) It achieves magnetic ordering through long-range ferromagnetic coupling across large domains.
D) It is exclusively observed in superconducting thin films, making it difficult to utilize in ambient conditions.
 
Explanation: (B)
Altermagnetism is defined by having zero net magnetization in real space (like antiferromagnetism) but crucially breaking spin degeneracy in momentum space (unlike standard antiferromagnetism), which enables efficient spin current manipulation for spintronics.
 
 
 

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