CA-19/01/2026
Contents
1. INS Sagardhwani
2. Open sea marine fish farming project
3. Chang'e-6
4. Royle's pika (Ochotona roylei)
5. Sammakka Saralamma Jatara
6. Pratas Islands,
7. Integrated Ombudsman Scheme 2026
Why in news?
INS Sagardhwani, an oceanographic research vessel under DRDO's Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), was recently flagged off from Kochi for the fifth edition of the Sagar Maitri initiative on January 17, 2026. This mission retraces historic routes of INS Kistna from the 1962-65 International Indian Ocean Expedition while fostering scientific collaboration with eight Indian Ocean Rim countries: Oman, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Myanmar.​
Objectives of Sagar Maitri Mission
- Sagar Maitri promotes ocean research cooperation under India's SAGAR vision, focusing on socio-economic ties, capacity building, and Underwater Domain Awareness for the Navy.
- The current voyage initiates joint studies with the Maldives, enabling data collection on oceanographic and acoustic parameters.​
About INS Sagardhwani
INS Sagardhwani is India’s dedicated marine acoustic research ship, operated by the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL) under DRDO. It plays a crucial role in oceanographic studies, underwater domain awareness, and international scientific collaboration.
Key Facts about INS Sagardhwani
- Name meaning: Sagardhwani translates to “Voice of the Sea.”
- Type: Marine Acoustic Research Ship (MARS).
- Builder: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, Kolkata.
- Launched: May 1991.
- Commissioned: 30 July 1994.
- Home Port: Kochi, India.
- Status: Active.
Role & Missions
- Primary Role: Acoustic and oceanographic research to support naval operations.
- Sagar Maitri Initiative:
- Flagship collaboration between Indian Navy & DRDO.
- Focuses on Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA).
- Collects high-value oceanographic and acoustic data along designated tracks.
- Strengthens India’s maritime scientific and defence capabilities.
- International Collaboration:
- Works with 8 Indian Ocean Region (IOR) countries: Oman, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
- Retraces historic routes of INS Kistna from the International Indian Ocean Expedition (1962–65).
Challenges & Considerations
- Data sensitivity: Acoustic research directly impacts submarine warfare; hence, findings are often classified.
- Operational endurance: While capable of 200 days at sea, long missions require robust logistical support.
- International collaboration: Balancing scientific openness with strategic security interests is critical.
Open sea marine fish farming project
Why in news?
India has launched its first-ever open sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea, marking a major step toward sustainable seafood production and the Blue Economy. The initiative uses advanced cage technology to farm high-value species like Cobia, aiming to boost seafood supply, reduce pressure on coastal fishing, and generate livelihoods.
Key Highlights of the Project
- Location: North Bay, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman Sea
- Launch Date: January 2026
- Led by: National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences
- Objective:
- Increase seafood production
- Reduce overfishing in coastal waters
- Promote sustainable mariculture
- Support India’s Blue Economy vision
Features of the Farming System
- Technology Used: Advanced open-sea cages designed to withstand ocean currents
- Species Cultivated: Cobia and other high-value marine finfish
- Integration: Seaweed farming alongside fish culture for ecological balance
- Economic Potential: Provides new livelihood opportunities for coastal communities while tapping into India’s vast ocean resources
Benefits & Impact
| Aspect |
Benefits |
| Food Security |
Expands seafood supply to meet rising demand |
| Environment |
Reduces stress on coastal ecosystems by shifting fishing offshore |
| Economy |
Generates jobs and income for fishers and local communities |
| Innovation |
Positions India as a leader in sustainable mariculture |
Challenges & Considerations
- Environmental Risks: Cage farming must be carefully managed to avoid pollution and disease spread.
- Training Needs: Fisherfolk require skill development in cage management and marine biology.
- Infrastructure: Logistics for feed supply, harvesting, and cold storage must be strengthened.
- Policy Support: Clear regulations and subsidies will be essential for scaling up.
About
Chang'e-6 supports China's lunar program, paving the way for Chang'e-7 (slated for 2026 to probe the south pole for water ice) and ambitions for a crewed landing by 2030. These steps advance plans for an International Lunar Research Station in the 2030s.​
China’s Lunar Program Milestones
- Chang’e‑6 (2024): Returned samples from the Moon’s far side — a first in human history. This strengthens China’s scientific leadership and builds technical confidence for future missions.
- Chang’e‑7 (2026): Planned to explore the south pole, focusing on detecting water ice and mapping resources. This is crucial because polar ice could support life‑support systems and fuel production for sustained human presence.
- Chang’e‑8 (around 2028): Expected to test in‑situ resource utilization (ISRU) — essentially experimenting with using lunar materials to build infrastructure.
- Crewed Lunar Landing (by 2030): China aims to put astronauts on the Moon, marking a new era of human exploration.
- International Lunar Research Station (ILRS, 2030s): A multinational base concept, co‑developed with partners like Russia and potentially other countries, envisioned as a permanent hub for science and technology on the Moon.
Importance
- Strategic Resources: Water ice at the poles could be split into hydrogen and oxygen, enabling rocket fuel production.
- Geopolitical Influence: The ILRS represents China’s vision of a cooperative but China‑led alternative to NASA’s Artemis program.
- Technological Leap: Each mission builds capabilities — precision landing, sample return, autonomous construction — all essential for sustainable lunar presence.
Royle's pika (Ochotona roylei)
Why in news?
Royle's pika (Ochotona roylei), a small herbivorous mammal native to the Himalayas, remains a key species in alpine ecosystems but faces ongoing threats from climate change. Recent observations confirm its presence in regions like Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the need for expanded biodiversity surveys.​
About Royle’s Pika
Royle’s pika (Ochotona roylei) is a small herbivorous mammal found in the Himalayan region, known for its rabbit-like appearance, diurnal activity, and unique survival strategy of storing hay piles for winter.
Key Facts about Royle’s Pika
- Scientific name: Ochotona roylei
- Common names: Himalayan pika, Himalayan mouse hare, Hui shutu
- Distribution: Bhutan, China (Tibet), India (Himalayas), Nepal, Pakistan
- Habitat: Rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and grasslands at elevations of 2,400–4,800 meters
- Conservation status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Physical Characteristics
- Size: 17–22 cm in length
- Appearance: Rufous-grey body, chestnut-colored head, rounded ears, short limbs, and no visible tail
- Adaptations: Dense fur for cold climates, camouflage against rocky terrain, and large ears for thermoregulation
Challenges & Conservation Notes
- Climate change: Rising temperatures threaten alpine habitats, potentially reducing suitable ranges.
- Human impact: Grazing, tourism, and habitat disturbance can affect populations.
- Conservation outlook: Currently stable, but monitoring is essential due to its role in fragile Himalayan ecosystems.
Sammakka Saralamma Jatara
Why in news?
Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, Asia's largest tribal festival, is scheduled for January 28-31, 2026, in Medaram village, Mulugu district, Telangana. This biennial event honors the mother-daughter deities Sammakka and Saralamma, drawing lakhs of devotees for rituals like offerings of jaggery, coconuts, and calves, plus a purifying bath in Jampanna Vagu.​
About Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara
The Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara (Medaram Jatara) is Asia’s largest tribal festival, celebrated every two years in Telangana to honor the tribal goddesses Sammakka and Saralamma. It draws millions of devotees, making it one of the world’s biggest human gatherings.
Key Highlights of Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara
- Location: Medaram village, Mulugu district, Telangana, inside the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary (part of the Dandakaranya forest belt).
- Frequency & Duration: Held biennially (every two years) during the full moon of the Hindu month of Magh; lasts 4 days.
- Deities Honored: Tribal goddesses Sammakka (a forest-born woman adopted by the Koya tribe) and her daughter Saralamma.
- Community: Entirely conducted by Koya tribal priests, following their customs and traditions.
- Offerings: Devotees present Bellam (jaggery), locally called Bangaram (gold), symbolizing purity and devotion.
- Scale: Recognized as Asia’s largest tribal congregation, with attendance often crossing 10 million people.
Cultural & Historical Significance
- Legendary Roots: Sammakka is believed to have been a tribal woman who fought against oppressive rulers to protect her people. Her daughter Saralamma also became a symbol of resistance and sacrifice.
- Spiritual Meaning: The festival represents tribal valor, unity, and devotion, blending indigenous traditions with broader Hindu practices.
- Recognition: The Jatara is not only a religious event but also a cultural heritage festival, showcasing tribal identity and resilience.
Importance
- Social Impact: It strengthens tribal solidarity and preserves indigenous rituals.
- Economic Impact: Local communities benefit from tourism, trade, and cultural exchange during the festival.
- Global Attention: Its sheer scale makes it comparable to the Kumbh Mela, though rooted in tribal traditions rather than mainstream Hinduism.
Challenges & Considerations
- Environmental Pressure: The festival site lies within a wildlife sanctuary, raising concerns about ecological impact.
- Infrastructure Needs: With millions attending, issues of sanitation, crowd management, and safety are critical.
- Cultural Preservation: Balancing modernization with respect for tribal customs remains a sensitive challenge.
Why in news?
The Pratas Islands, also known as Dongsha or Tungsha, experienced a significant military incident on January 17, 2026, when a Chinese PLA surveillance drone entered airspace near or over the Taiwan-controlled atoll.​
About the Pratas Islands
The Pratas Islands (Dongsha Islands) are a disputed coral atoll in the northern South China Sea, administered by Taiwan but also claimed by China. They are strategically important due to their location and military presence.
Key Facts
- Names: Also called Dongsha Islands or Tungsha Islands.
- Location: Northern South China Sea, about 310 km southeast of Hong Kong.
- Geography:
- One main island (Pratas Island) and surrounding atoll.
- Land area: 174 hectares (430 acres).
- Lagoon area: 64 hectares (158 acres).
- Administration: Controlled by Taiwan (Republic of China) as part of Cijin District, Kaohsiung City.
- Claims: Also claimed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), making it a contested territory.
- Military Presence:
- No permanent civilian population.
- Garrisoned by around 500 Taiwanese marines and coast guard personnel.
- Facilities include Dongsha Airport (1,500 m runway), underground bunkers, and surveillance systems.
Strategic Importance
| Factor |
Details |
| Military |
Early warning, anti-submarine warfare, and logistical support for Taiwan’s other South China Sea outposts |
| Geopolitical |
Symbol of Taiwan’s presence in the South China Sea; contested by China |
| Geography |
Coral atoll with fragile ecosystem; potential for marine research and conservation |
| Connectivity |
Supply flights from Taiwan maintain the garrison; runway supports military aircraft |
|
Challenges & Risks
- Disputed Sovereignty: Both Taiwan and China claim the islands, raising tensions in the South China Sea.
- Environmental Fragility: Coral reefs and lagoons are vulnerable to climate change and human activity.
- Isolation: Remote location makes logistics difficult; dependent on supply flights.
- Regional Security: Any escalation in the South China Sea could make Pratas a flashpoint.
Integrated Ombudsman Scheme 2026
Why in news?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2026, which will come into force from July 1, 2026. It is designed to strengthen the grievance redressal framework, unify existing ombudsman schemes, and ensure faster resolution of customer complaints against regulated entities.
Key Highlights of RBI Integrated Ombudsman Scheme 2026
- Launch & Background
- Draft scheme released in October 2025 for public feedback.
- Final scheme notified in January 2026 after incorporating stakeholder suggestions.
- Objective
- To integrate and streamline multiple ombudsman schemes (covering banks, NBFCs, digital transactions).
- To provide a single, simplified platform for customers to lodge complaints.
- Effective Date
- Comes into force on July 1, 2026.
- Scope: Covers complaints against:
- Commercial banks
- Small finance banks
- NBFCs
- Payment system participants
- Complaints may include issues like service deficiency, unfair practices, delays, or non-compliance with RBI directions.
- Strengthening Internal Grievance Redressal
- RBI has also issued Internal Ombudsman Directions, 2026 for banks and small finance banks.
- These require banks to have an apex-level authority to review complaints before rejection, ensuring fairness and accountability.
Challenges & Considerations
- Awareness: Customers must be educated about the new unified system.
- Implementation: Banks and NBFCs need robust internal grievance mechanisms to comply.
- Digital Access: Ensuring rural and less tech-savvy customers can access the complaint portal.
- Monitoring: RBI will need strong oversight to ensure compliance and timely resolution.
Question & Answer
Question 1. The Pratas Islands (Dongsha Islands) are strategically important due to their location in the northern South China Sea. Which of the following accurately describes the current administrative status of this atoll?
Select your answer:
A) Administered by the People's Republic of China (PRC) and hosts a major naval base for the PLA Navy.
B) Controlled by Taiwan (Republic of China) as part of Cijin District, Kaohsiung City.
C) Governed jointly by Vietnam and the Philippines under a mutual security pact.
D) An internationally administered zone managed by the United Nations for marine research.
Explanation: (B)
The Pratas Islands are currently controlled by Taiwan (Republic of China) and administered as part of Cijin District, Kaohsiung City, although they are also claimed by the PRC.
Question 2. Royle's pika (Ochotona roylei) is an indicator species found in high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems. What is the primary ecological role that makes its monitoring critical in the context of climate change?
Select your answer:
A) It is a keystone predator whose absence leads to the collapse of alpine vegetation.
B) As a herbivore that stores food (hay piles), its population dynamics reflect primary productivity changes in alpine meadows.
C) It is the only species capable of carbon sequestration in the rocky alpine zones.
D) Its presence indicates the presence of subsurface mineral deposits crucial for strategic industries.
Explanation: (B)
Royle's pika is a small herbivorous mammal known for storing hay piles to survive the winter. Its foraging habits and population health are directly tied to the productivity and stability of the alpine meadows and grasslands, making it a key indicator of ecosystem stress, particularly due to rising temperatures associated with climate change.
Question 3. Consider the following statements regarding the 'Sagar Maitri' initiative spearheaded by India:
1. Its primary focus is on fostering scientific cooperation in oceanographic research with nations bordering the Pacific Ocean.
2. The INS Sagardhwani, the research vessel, is primarily dedicated to seismic surveys and deep-sea drilling operations.
3. The mission seeks to enhance Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) in alignment with India's overarching SAGAR vision.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Select your answer:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: (B)
Statement 1 is incorrect; Sagar Maitri focuses on Indian Ocean Region (IOR) countries, not primarily the Pacific Ocean. Statement 2 is incorrect; INS Sagardhwani is a Marine Acoustic Research Ship (MARS), focusing on acoustic and oceanographic research, not primarily seismic surveys or deep-sea drilling. Statement 3 is correct; enhancing UDA is a core objective linked to the SAGAR vision.
Question 4. The launch of India's first open-sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea is significant for the Blue Economy. Which of the following practices is/are characteristic features integrated into this pioneering mariculture system?
Select your answer:
A) Exclusive reliance on traditional pen culture methods near the coast
B) Cultivation of high-value species like Cobia alongside integrated seaweed farming
C) Focus only on freshwater species adapted for saline environments
D) Use of technology developed solely by international partners without NIOT involvement
Explanation: (B)
The project utilizes advanced open-sea cages to farm high-value marine finfish like Cobia. Crucially, it integrates seaweed farming alongside fish culture for ecological balance, reflecting sustainable practices in the Blue Economy framework. It is led by NIOT, and it focuses on marine species, not freshwater species.
Question 5. China's recent lunar exploration milestones, particularly the Chang'e-6 mission, are crucial steps toward its future space goals. What is the primary objective planned for the Chang'e-7 mission scheduled around 2026?
Select your answer:
A) Conducting the first crewed landing on the lunar surface near the equatorial region.
B) Testing In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) technologies in preparation for long-term habitation.
C) Exploring the Moon's south pole to detect and map the distribution of water ice.
D) Establishing a complete communications relay satellite network around the Moon.
Explanation: (C)
The Chang'e-7 mission is specifically planned to explore the lunar south pole, focusing on detecting water ice and mapping potential resources, which is critical for the viability of the future International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
Question 6. The Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, Asia’s largest tribal festival, takes place biennially in Telangana. Which geological and ecological feature is intrinsically linked to the location and rituals of this major cultural event?
Select your answer:
A) The Coromandel Coast estuaries
B) The confluence of the Godavari and Krishna rivers
C) The Jampanna Vagu stream within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
D) The Deccan Lava plateau region of Maharashtra
Explanation: (C)
The festival is held in Medaram village, which is situated within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary. A key ritual involves devotees taking a purifying bath in the Jampanna Vagu (stream).
Question 7. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduces the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2026. What is the primary structural change brought about by this scheme compared to previous separate schemes?
Select your answer:
A) It shifts the jurisdiction entirely to the Banking Ombudsman for all digital transactions.
B) It mandates that all complaints must first be heard in High Courts before reaching the Ombudsman.
C) It integrates and streamlines grievance redressal mechanisms for banks, NBFCs, and payment system participants into a single platform.
D) It removes the requirement for Internal Ombudsman review for rejected complaints by banks.
Explanation: (C)
The core feature of the RB-IOS 2026 is its integration, unifying previously separate schemes (covering banks, NBFCs, and digital transactions) to provide customers with a single, simplified portal for lodging grievances against regulated entities.
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