UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 5 June 2025

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Somali Current is a unique ocean current that seasonally reverses its direction. It flows clockwise at high speeds during the Southwest monsoon (summer) and weakens or reverses during the winter monsoon. It does not maintain a constant clockwise circulation.
• Statement 2 is correct. The Arabian Sea has several significant submarine features, including the Carlsberg Ridge, Murray Ridge, and the Indus submarine canyon and abyssal cone, the latter formed by sediments from the Indus River.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. The Arabian Sea generally has higher salinity compared to the Bay of Bengal. This is due to higher evaporation rates and lower freshwater influx from rivers in the Arabian Sea region, whereas the Bay of Bengal receives a massive discharge of freshwater from numerous large rivers like the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, etc.
• Statement 4 is incorrect. Upwelling near the Somali and Arabian coasts plays a crucial role in aiding nutrient cycling and is actually associated with the onset and strengthening of the Southwest monsoon, rather than inhibiting it. This cold, nutrient-rich upwelled water influences sea surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure gradients that drive the monsoon.

About Arabian Sea:

• Location: The Arabian Sea is a northwestern extension of the Indian Ocean, bordered by India to the east and the Arabian Peninsula to the west.
• Neighbouring Nations:
  • Coastal countries: India, Pakistan, Iran, Oman, Yemen, and Somalia.
  • Key maritime links: Gulf of Oman (to Persian Gulf) and Gulf of Aden (to Red Sea).
• Indian Coastal States: Indian states bordering the Arabian Sea include: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Lakshadweep UT.
• Geographical Features:
  • Depth: Average depth ~2,734 m and max depth at Wheatley Deep ~5,803 m
  • Major Submarine Features:
    • Carlsberg Ridge (seismic, mid-ocean ridge)
    • Murray Ridge, Somali and Arabian Basins
    • Indus submarine canyon and abyssal cone
  • Key Islands:
    • Socotra (Yemen), Kuria Muria Islands (Oman), Lakshadweep (India)
  • Role in Monsoon:
    • Monsoon Influence:
      • Southwest monsoon winds (April–November) gather moisture from the Arabian Sea, triggering heavy rains in India.
      • Upwelling near the Somali and Arabian coasts aids in nutrient cycling and monsoon onset.
    • Ocean Currents:
      • Hosts the Somali Current, one of the fastest ocean currents (~13 km/hr), seasonally reversing with monsoons.
      • Drives clockwise circulation during summer and weakens during winter monsoon.
    • Sediments & Marine Geology:
      • High sedimentation from the Indus River.
      • Known for ferromanganese nodules, hydrogen sulfide zones, and polymetallic sulfides.

Solution: b)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While APO supports productivity enhancement, its core functions include policy advisory, capacity building (training, workshops, research), and supporting Centres of Excellence. It does not typically directly implement industrial projects with its own funding in the manner of a development bank executing infrastructure.
• Statement 2 is correct. A key objective and function of the APO is to promote environmentally sustainable practices through its Green Productivity initiative. This highlights its commitment to sustainable development alongside productivity enhancement.

About Asian Productivity Organization (APO):

• What It Is?

• • APO is a Tokyo-based intergovernmental body working to boost productivity across the Asia-Pacific region.

• Established: Founded in 1961, with India as a founding member.
• Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
• Current Members: 21 member economies including India, Japan, Iran, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and others.
• Objectives:

• • Promote sustainable socioeconomic growth through enhanced productivity.
  • Support inclusive, innovation-led development across industry, agriculture, services, and public sectors.

• Core Functions:

• • Policy Advisory: Guides governments on national productivity strategies.
  • Capacity Building: Organizes training, workshops, and research programs.
  • Centres of Excellence: Supports innovation and excellence across member economies.
  • Green Productivity: Promotes environmentally sustainable practices.
  • Digital and Innovation Ecosystem: Enhances regional cooperation on digital productivity and entrepreneurship.

Solution: c)

• The Keezhadi excavation has yielded crucial evidence of an ancient urban civilization in Tamil Nadu.
• Statement (a) is incorrect; Keezhadi findings point to a later, urban phase (Sangam Age), not Paleolithic.
• Statement (b) is incorrect; carbon dating (AMS) of charcoal shows urban habitation existed by 200 BCE, which is significantly earlier than the medieval period.
• Statement (c) is correct. The key findings that support the existence of an early urban settlement include the discovery of urban features such as brick structures, ring wells, various types of pottery (some with graffiti indicating literacy), beads, and water storage facilities. These, coupled with the carbon dating to around 200 BCE, strongly suggest a sophisticated urban life during the Sangam Age.
• Statement (d) is incorrect; the evidence points to permanent structures and organized urban living, not nomadic campsites. The findings from Keezhadi challenge older narratives and highlight a rich, indigenous urban development in southern India.

About Keezhadi Excavation:

• What Is Keezhadi?

• • Keezhadi is an archaeological site near Madurai, Tamil Nadu, along the Vaigai river basin, explored by ASI and later by the Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department.

• Discovered In: Initial excavations began in 2015, following surveys conducted across 293 sites in the Vaigai valley during 2013–14.
• Location:

• • Excavation site: Pallichanthai Thidal, Sivaganga district.
  • Excavated area: Only 1 out of 100 acres, yet over 4,000 artefacts have been unearthed.

• Key Findings

• • Carbon dating (AMS) of charcoal shows urban habitation existed by 200 BCE.
  • Discovery of urban features: brick structures, ring wells, pottery, graffiti, beads, and water storage facilities.
  • Artefacts suggest links with North India and Western trade networks during the Sangam Age.
  • A large, decorative pot, unique to Tamil excavations, was also unearthed—highlighting artistic and cultural advancement.

• Cultural Significance:

• • Supports theories of a pre-Sangam urban Tamil civilisation.
  • Mention of settlements like Manalur and Konthagai in Tiruvilayadal Puranam links the site to classical Tamil texts.
  • Establishes Keezhadi as a centre of literacy, trade, and craftsmanship, challenging North-centric civilisational narratives.

Solution: b)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While architectural integration reflecting local art and culture is a feature, the Amrit Bharat scheme places strong emphasis on enhancing passenger experience through improved infrastructure and amenities. This includes improved accessibility, waiting halls, executive lounges, toilets, lifts, escalators, free Wi-Fi, and digital information systems.
• Statement 2 is correct. A key objective of the scheme is to integrate stations into multimodal urban mobility hubs, ensuring seamless links with metro, bus terminals, and other city transport systems. This reflects a holistic approach to urban planning and transportation.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. The scheme is characterized by a long-term, phased vision for redeveloping and modernizing railway stations. It utilizes a Master Plan Approach, where development is carried out in phases based on future needs, indicating a strategic and sustainable approach rather than just quick upgrades.

About Amrit Bharat Railway Stations:

• What It Is?

• • A centrally sponsored initiative to redevelop and modernize 1,275 railway stations across India with a long-term, phased vision.

• Launched In: 2022 by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
• Objectives:

• • Enhance passenger experience through improved infrastructure.
  • Promote heritage preservation, tourism, and regional economic development.
  • Integrate stations into multimodal urban mobility hubs.

• Key Features of Amrit Bharat Railway Stations:

• • Master Plan Approach: Development carried out in phases based on future needs.
  • Passenger Amenities:
    • Improved accessibility, waiting halls, executive lounges, toilets, lifts, escalators.
    • Free Wi-Fi, better signage, digital passenger information systems.
    • Business lounges, retail kiosks (under One Station One Product), and roof plazas.
  • Architectural Integration: Reflects local art, culture, and heritage in station design.
  • Green Infrastructure: Focus on eco-friendly buildings, sustainable materials, and Divyangjan-friendly facilities.
  • Multimodal Connectivity: Seamless links with metro, bus terminals, and city transport systems.
  • Economic Boost: Expected to generate employment, enhance tourism, and promote local handicrafts.

• Significance of the Scheme:

• • Cultural Preservation: Protects and showcases India’s regional heritage and traditions.
  • Tourism Promotion: Station aesthetics attract tourists, especially in heritage zones.
  • Urban Transformation: Converts railway premises into vibrant public spaces and city centres.
  • Digital & Physical Modernization: Bridges the gap between traditional rail infrastructure and future-ready smart transport hubs.
  • Inclusive Development: Special focus on facilities for persons with disabilities, women, and senior citizens.

Solution: d)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. KRCL was structured as a joint venture model, with the Government of India (Ministry of Railways) holding 51% equity, and significant participation from state governments: Maharashtra (22%), Karnataka (15%), Goa and Kerala (6% each). It was not a fully owned subsidiary with no state participation.

Statement 2 is incorrect. The Konkan Railway acts as a lifeline for both passengers and freight. It significantly reduces travel time and enables economic integration, implying substantial freight movement, despite the challenging terrain.

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While Jarosite is common on Mars, it is also found on Earth in various environments such as arid regions, mine tailings, Antarctica ice cores, and acidic clay-rich environments like Kachchh (India).
• Statement 2 is incorrect. Jarosite is a hydrous sulfate mineral primarily composed of potassium, ferric iron (Fe³⁺), and sulfate, with the formula KFe₃(SO₄)₂(OH)₆. It does not primarily consist of calcium, magnesium, and silicates.
• Statement 3 is correct. Indian scientists have discovered that Jarosite can act as a natural luminescent clock, recording geological events from the last 25,000 years. This period falls within “the last few millennia” in a broader geological sense, and the study specifically mentions its potential for dating events within this timeframe. This makes it a valuable tool for planetary dating.

A team of Indian scientists has discovered that Jarosite, a mineral common on Mars, can act as a natural luminescent clock, recording geological events from the last 25,000 years.

• The study was conducted on jarosite samples from Kachchh, Gujarat, simulating Mars-like conditions and testing their luminescence response to radiation.

• What is Jarosite?

• • Jarosite is a hydrous sulfate mineral composed of potassium, ferric iron (Fe³⁺), and sulfate, with the formula KFe₃(SO₄)₂(OH)₆.
  • It is commonly associated with acid mine drainage, oxidized ore deposits, and acidic sulfate soils.

• Where is Jarosite Found?

• • On Earth: Found in arid regions, mine tailings, Antarctica ice cores, and acidic clay-rich environments like Kachchh (India) and Sierra Peña Blanca (Mexico).
  • On Mars: Detected by NASA’s Spirit, Opportunity, and Curiosity rovers, indicating oxidizing and acidic conditions on the Martian surface.

• Physical & Chemical Properties:

• • Crystal Structure: Trigonal system and brittle with basal cleavage.
  • Colour: Dark yellow to yellow-brown.
  • Hardness: 2.5–3.5 (Mohs scale).
  • Lustre: Vitreous to dull and translucent to opaque.
  • Thermal Stability: Retains luminescence up to 450°C, ideal for Martian rover operations.
  • Chemical Property: Iron analogue of alunite and formed by oxidation of iron sulfides (like pyrite).

• Applications:

• • Planetary Dating Tool: Can act as a natural radiation clock to date Martian dust storms, floods, or volcanic events within a 25,000-year window.
  • Mars Missions: Ideal for use in Mars rovers with heaters and LEDs to detect age without damaging sample.
  • Environmental Indicator: Used to trace oxidation stages in mining or glacial processes on Earth and Mars.
  • Geological Marker: Can help detect ice age layers in deep Earth cores.

Solution: c)

• Statement (a) is incorrect. The WHO launched its global policy in 2018 with the aim to eliminate industrial trans fats by 2025, not 2030. Many countries have indeed implemented regulations.
• Statement (b) is incorrect. India’s policy, under FSSAI’s 2021 Regulations, has been effective since January 2022 (not 2023) and enforces a <2% trans-fat limit in oils and fats, aligning with WHO best practices, not a 5% limit.
• Statement (c) is correct. The WHO’s global target for the elimination of industrially produced trans fats is 2025. In line with this, India has implemented regulations effective January 2022, mandating a limit of less than 2% trans-fat in oils and fats.
• Statement (d) is incorrect. While Austria, Norway, Oman, and Singapore were recently recognized, this list includes Oman and Singapore (Asian countries), showing progress beyond just Western Europe. The statement is also an overgeneralization.

About WHO Recognises 4 Nations for Trans Fat Elimination:

• What is Trans Fat?

• • Definition: Trans fats (trans-fatty acids) are unsaturated fats that undergo hydrogenation, turning liquid oils into solid fats.
  • Types:
    • Naturally occurring: Found in red meat and dairy (in small amounts).
    • Industrially produced: Found in partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) used in processed foods.

• Sources of Trans Fat:

• • Fried & processed foods: Biscuits, cakes, margarine, vanaspati ghee
  • Baked goods: Pies, pastries, refrigerated dough
  • Cooking fats: Shortening, stick margarine

• Health Hazards of Trans Fats:
  • Raises Bad Cholesterol (LDL): Trans fats increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, which leads to cholesterol buildup in arteries.
  • Lowers Good Cholesterol (HDL): They simultaneously reduce high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, which normally helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
  • Triggers Arterial Blockage: The imbalance between LDL and HDL causes plaque formation in arteries, narrowing them and leading to stroke or coronary heart disease.
  • Increases Obesity and Diabetes Risk: Being energy-dense (9 kcal/g), trans fats promote weight gain, and prolonged consumption can impair insulin sensitivity, triggering type 2 diabetes.
  • Massive Global Health Impact: WHO (2024) estimates 278,000 annual deaths from trans-fat consumption, accounting for nearly 7% of cardiovascular-related mortalities worldwide.
• Target:
  • Global Policy (WHO): Launched in 2018, WHO aims to eliminate industrial trans fats by 2025, targeting 90% global and 70% regional population coverage.
  • India’s Policy: Since January 2022, India enforces a <2% trans-fat limit in oils/fats under FSSAI’s 2021 Regulations, aligning with WHO best practices.

Solution: d)

• Statement-I is incorrect. The agreement does involve the transfer of sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, but it is not an unconditional relinquishing of British strategic interests. The deal explicitly allows for the continued operation of the military base on Diego Garcia.
• Statement-II is correct. A key component of the UK–Mauritius Chagos Sovereignty Deal (2025) is a 99-year lease of Diego Garcia to the UK and US for continued military operations. This ensures that Western strategic interests are maintained even after the transfer of sovereignty.

About UK–Mauritius Chagos Sovereignty Deal (2025):

• After a UK High Court ruling, England Prime Minister signed a treaty handing sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
• The deal includes a 99-year lease of Diego Garcia to the UK and US for continued military use.
• The UK will pay Mauritius approximately £101 million/year, totalling billions over the lease period.
• Significance:

• Marks the completion of Mauritius’s decolonisation process.
• Balances sovereignty claims with strategic military requirements of Western allies.
• Seen as a “win-win”—recognising Mauritian control while maintaining UK-US security presence.

India’s Official Stance: India has consistently supported Mauritius’s claim over Chagos in line with its principles of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and international law.

Solution: d)

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Mallakhamb is an ancient Indian sport, with traces dating back to Chandraketugarh pottery (1st–2nd century BCE) and epics like the Ramayana. The earliest literary mention is in the Manasollasa (12th century) by King Someshvara III, not the 19th century.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Mallakhamb has different types. While Pole Mallakhamb is performed on a sheesham wood pole, there is also Rope Mallakhamb (performed on a hanging rope) and Hanging Mallakhamb (suspended from a height). So it’s not exclusive to a wooden pole.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Mallakhamb was demonstrated at the Berlin 1936 Olympics, but it was not included as a competitive event. Its inclusion in the National Gymnastics Championships was in 1958, and it became a standalone sport in 1962. Thus, none of the statements are correct.

• What is Mallakhamb?

• • Mallakhamb (literally meaning wrestling pole) is an ancient Indian sport where athletes perform aerial yoga and gymnastic postures on a vertical wooden pole or rope.
  • Purpose: Originally designed as a training aid for wrestlers and warriors to improve agility, strength, flexibility, and martial readiness.

• Historical Background:

• • Ancient Roots: Traces of mallakhamb date back to Chandraketugarh pottery (1st–2nd century BCE) and epics like the Ramayana.
    • Manasollasa (12th century) by King Someshvara III contains the earliest literary mention.
  • Maratha Revival: Revived in the 18th century by Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, trainer to Peshwa Bajirao II. Practised by figures like Rani Lakshmibai and Tantia Tope.
  • Modern Recognition:
    • Demonstrated at Berlin 1936 Olympics.
    • Included in National Gymnastics Championships (1958) and became a standalone sport in 1962 (Gwalior).
    • Mallakhamb Federation of India formed in 1981.
    • Featured in Khelo India Youth Games since 2022.

• Key Features of the Game:

• • Types:
    • Pole Mallakhamb: Performed on a sheesham wood pole.
    • Rope Mallakhamb: Performed on a hanging rope.
    • Hanging Mallakhamb: Suspended from a height.
  • Elements:
    • Blends yoga, wrestling, and gymnastics.
    • Involves inversions, balance poses, and dynamic transitions.
  • Physical Demands: Builds core strength, mental focus, and neuromuscular coordination.

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The New Development Bank (NDB) was established by the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), not the G7 nations. While it functions as an alternative to institutions like the World Bank and IMF, its founders are the BRICS countries.
• Statement 2 is incorrect. The presidency of the NDB rotates among BRICS member countries. It is “currently held by Dilma Rousseff (Brazil),” not permanently by China. While the headquarters are in Shanghai, China, this does not dictate permanent presidency.
• Statement 3 is correct. Membership is open to all UN member states, provided BRICS retain 55% minimum shareholding. This indicates the NDB’s intent to expand its membership base while ensuring the founding members maintain a significant stake.

• What is NDB?

• • A multilateral development bank established by BRICS nations to mobilise funds for infrastructure and sustainable development.
  • Functions as an alternative to Western-dominated institutions like the World Bank and IMF.
• Established: July 21, 2015 (Agreement signed on July 15, 2014 at BRICS Fortaleza Summit).
• Headquarters: Shanghai, China
• Regional Offices: South Africa and Brazil

• Membership:

• • Founding Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS).
  • New Members (expanding base): Bangladesh, UAE, Egypt, Uruguay, and Algeria (2025).
  • Membership is open to all UN member states, provided BRICS retain 55% minimum shareholding.

• Objectives:
  • Mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and emerging economies.
  • Complement efforts of existing global and regional financial institutions.
  • Support projects in areas like clean energy, transport, urban development, and social infrastructure.
• NDB Governance Structure:

• • Board of Governors: Comprises Finance Ministers of BRICS nations.
  • Board of Directors: Oversees strategic decision-making.
  • Presidency: Rotates among BRICS and currently held by Dilma Rousseff (Brazil).
  • Voting Power: Based on equity contribution and BRICS collectively hold controlling stake.
  • Capital Structure:
    • Initial authorized capital: USD 100 billion
    • Initial subscribed capital: USD 50 billion

• Functions & Features:

• • Core Objective: Fund infrastructure, clean energy, water, sanitation, agriculture, public health, education, and sustainable development.
  • Performance: Over 120 projects worth $40+ billion approved globally (as of 2025). India has received funding for 18 projects worth USD 6.9 billion.
  • Global Ratings:
    • ‘AA+’ by S&P and Fitch
    • ‘AAA’ by JCR and ACRA
  • Emergency Response: Provided COVID-19 assistance under its Emergency Assistance Facility.