UPSC Prelims 2026 Analysis: A Lengthy, Tough and Current Affairs Heavy Paper

UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Initial Analysis UPSC Prelims 2026 Analysis: A Lengthy, Tough and Current Affairs Heavy Paper The UPSC Prelims 2026 General Studies Paper 1 has once again reminded aspirants that UPSC is not just testing memory, but depth, alertness, reading ability and the habit of connecting current affairs with static subjects. Download UPSC …

Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026

Source:  PIB Subject:  Environment Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, which will supersede the 2016 rules. These regulations introduce a technology-driven, Polluter Pays framework and will come into full effect from April 1, 2026. About Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026: What is it? …

Rhinoceros (Rhino)

Source:  TH Subject:  Species in News Context: A recent international study shows that rhino dehorning has reduced poaching by nearly 75–78% in African reserves, offering a cost-effective conservation tool. About Rhinoceros (Rhino): What it is? The rhinoceros is a large, herbivorous mammal belonging to the family Rhinocerotidae. It is one of the oldest surviving megafauna, …

Mouse Deer

Source:  TOI Context: The elusive Silver-backed Chevrotain (mouse deer), thought extinct for over 30 years, has been rediscovered in the forests of southern Vietnam, sparking global conservation optimism. About Mouse Deer: What is the Mouse Deer? The mouse deer, also called chevrotain, is the world’s smallest hoofed mammal, belonging to the family Tragulidae. Though it …

Coral Bleaching

Syllabus: Ecology Source:  DTE Context: The world is witnessing its worst coral bleaching event ever, with nearly 84% of global coral reefs affected, as confirmed by NOAA and the International Coral Reef Initiative. What is Coral Bleaching? Coral bleaching occurs when prolonged thermal stress causes corals to expel zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae), leading to loss of …

Green Credit Programme

Source:  IE Context: The Green Credit Programme (GCP), launched in 2023, faces criticism for potentially incentivizing forest diversion and promoting plantations on ecologically sensitive lands. About Green Credit Programme (GCP): Launched in: October 2023 (notified under Green Credit Rules) Officially unveiled: At COP28 (2023) by Prime Minister of India and UAE President Implementing Agency: Indian Council of Forestry Research …

Indian Coastal Crisis

Syllabus: Ecology Source:  DTE Context: India’s coastal regions face a dual crisis—illegal light fishing depleting marine life and erosion threatening 33.6% of the coastline, as revealed by recent government data. About India’s Coastal Region: Extensive Coastline: India has 7,500 km of coastline, spanning 9 states and 4 UTs, supporting livelihoods, trade, and biodiversity. Economic Hub: Contributes 4% to India’s …

Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Source:  TH Context: Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha faces human-wildlife conflict as 674 families have been relocated from forest areas under the tiger conservation initiative. Despite resettlement efforts, STR remains one of the four notified tiger reserves in India without a single tiger. About Satkosia Tiger Reserve: Location: Spans Angul, Cuttack, Boudh, and Nayagarh …

Madhav National Park

Source:  TOI Context: The Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been declared India’s 58th Tiger Reserve and the 9th in the state. About Madhav National Park: Location: Shivpuri district, Chambal region, Madhya Pradesh. Established: 1958. Area Covered: 354 sq km. Flora and Fauna: Dry deciduous forest with teak, sal, and dhok trees; home to …

S&T, Environment – Daily Answer Writing Challenge Day – 4

QUESTIONS: 24/10/2013 (Topics – Biotechnology, Health, India – technology) Discuss the issues related to clinical trials in India? What are the implications of Supreme Court’s latest ruling in this regard. (250 Words) “India has become a surrogacy haven”. Comment on the recent issues and controversies related to surrogacy in India. Do you think ART, Bill, …