K Missile Family    
Asthma    
Operation Bhediya    
INS Malpe and INS Mulki    
Pahadi Korwa Tribe    
Presbyopia    
India-Russia Bilateral Trade    
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Aimed at Enhancing Research in
India’s Universities    

1.    K Missile Family
About:
•    The K missile family (K for 'Kalam') is a series of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM) developed by India to enhance its second-strike nuclear capability.
•    These missiles are reported to be faster, lighter, and stealthier than their Agni missile counterparts.
Key Features:
•    Submarine-Launched: Developed for deployment on India's Arihant-class submarines.

•    Stealth Technology: Equipped with advanced radar countermeasures for increased stealth.
•    MIRV Technology: The K-series will have Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRV), allowing them to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
K-5 Ballistic Missile:
•    Range: Approximately 5,000-6,000 km.
•    Payload: Capable of carrying a 2-tonne nuclear warhead.
•    Propellant: Solid-fuel rocket with three stages for higher speed and reliability.
•    Development Objective: The K-5 is under development to match the range of the Agni V missile.
Strategic Importance:
•    Nuclear Deterrence: Strengthens India's nuclear triad by ensuring second-strike capability.
•    Enhanced Defense: Increases survivability of India's nuclear arsenal by deploying these missiles on submarine platforms, making them harder to detect and target.

Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to India's K missile family, consider the following statements:
1.    K-series missiles are submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM).
2.    K-series missiles are equipped with MIRV technology.
3.    The K-5 missile has a range of approximately 3,000 km.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only


Mains Question:
Question: Discuss the strategic significance of India's K missile family in enhancing its second- strike capability and strengthening nuclear deterrence. How do submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM) contribute to the country's defense posture in the context of regional security?

2.    Asthma
Introduction:
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by the inflammation and narrowing of the airways, causing difficulty in breathing.
Function of Bronchial Tubes:
Bronchial tubes allow air to flow in and out of the lungs. During an asthma attack, these tubes become inflamed, reducing the airway space and limiting airflow.

Symptoms of Asthma:
Common Symptoms:
•    Wheezing
•    Chest tightness or pressure
•    Rapid breathing
•    Persistent coughing
•    Difficulty in speaking
Severe Symptoms:
•    Blue fingernails or lips (cyanosis)
•    Sweating or pale face
Causes and Triggers:
The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but several environmental triggers can induce an asthma attack by causing airway inflammation

and mucus production. Known Triggers:
•    Respiratory infections: Common cold, flu
•    Allergens: Dust, dust mites, pollen
•    Pollution: Vehicular and industrial exhaust
•    Smoking
•    Medications: Certain drugs can trigger asthma
•    Weather changes: Cold air or sudden changes in temperature
Prelims Question Example:
Question: With reference to asthma, which of the following can act as a trigger for asthma attacks?
1.    Exposure to dust mites
2.    Respiratory infections
3.    High levels of pollution
4.    Physical exercise in cold weather
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A)    1, 2, and 3 only
B)    2 and 4 only
C)    1, 3, and 4 only
D)    1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Mains Question Example:
Question: Discuss the environmental and health impacts of increasing air pollution in urban areas, particularly in relation to respiratory diseases like asthma. How can policy interventions help mitigate these issues?

3.    Operation Bhediya
Context:
•    Recently, the forest department launched ‘Operation Bhediya (Wolf)’ in Mehsi tehsil after a series of attacks by wolves, resulting in several fatalities and injuries.
Key Points:

•    Objective: To capture and neutralize a pack of wolves responsible for multiple attacks.
•    Technologies Used:
o    Drone Cameras and Thermal Mapping: Used to locate and track the movement of the wolves.
o    Tranquilization Approval: Permission obtained for tranquilizing the wolves for safe capture.
o    Legal Provision: Under the Wildlife

•    Schedule II: Provides high protection with strict regulations on trade. E.g., Indian Cobra, Assamese Macaque.
•    Schedules III & IV: Provide protection for non-endangered species with lower penalties. E.g., Chital, Flamingo.
•    Schedule V: Lists vermin species, which may be hunted. E.g., Common Crows, Rats.
•    Schedule VI: Regulates the cultivation and trade of specified plants. E.g., Blue Vanda, Kuth.

(Protection) Act, 1972, the Chief        

Wildlife Warden can allow hunting of a Schedule I animal if it poses danger to human lives.

Wolf Classification:
•    Conservation Status: Classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN.
•    Listed under:
o    Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
o    Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 - Schedules Overview:
•    Schedule I: Provides the highest level of protection with severe penalties for poaching or hunting. E.g., Black Buck, Snow Leopard.

Prelims Question:
With reference to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, consider the following statements:
1.    Animals listed under Schedule I have the highest protection against hunting.
2.    Vermin species listed in Schedule V are allowed to be hunted.
3.    Schedule VI deals with the protection of endangered animals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Explanation: Schedule VI regulates plants, not animals.

Mains Question:
Question:
Examine how advanced technologies like drone surveillance and thermal imaging, as used in Operation Bhediya, can enhance wildlife conservation efforts and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. What are the ethical considerations that need to be balanced while addressing such conflicts?

4.    INS Malpe and INS Mulki
•    Context: These are two indigenously designed and constructed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercrafts (ASWCWC) built for the Indian Navy, part of the ongoing effort to enhance coastal defense capabilities.

Key Points:
•    Shipyard: Constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
•    Class: Known as the Mahe Class, they will replace the aging Abhay Class ASW Corvettes.
•    Role: Designed to perform anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, including low-intensity maritime operations, mine- laying, sub-surface surveillance, and search and rescue missions.
Features:
•    Dimensions: Length of 78 meters, width of 11.36 meters, and a draught of 2.7 meters.
•    Displacement: Approximately 900 tonnes.
•    Speed and Endurance: Maximum speed of 25 knots and endurance of 1,800 nautical miles.
•    Armament and Equipment:
o    Equipped with indigenously developed SONARS for underwater surveillance.

o    Armed with lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine warfare rockets, a close-in weapon system, and remote-controlled guns.

Prelims Question:
Which of the following statements about INS Malpe and INS Mulki is correct?
1.    They are indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercrafts (ASWCWC).
2.    They are part of the Abhay Class of Anti- Submarine Warfare Corvettes.
3.    They are equipped with indigenously developed SONARS for underwater surveillance.
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Mains Question:
Question:
Discuss the significance of indigenously designed anti-submarine warfare shallow watercrafts like INS Malpe and INS Mulki in enhancing India's coastal defense capabilities. How do such vessels contribute to the overall maritime security strategy of India?

5.    Pahadi Korwa Tribe
•    Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG):
o    Belongs to Chhattisgarh, primarily found in Korba and Jashpur districts.
o    Small populations are also in
Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.
•    Language:

o    Korwa language is part of the Munda branch of the Austroasiatic family.
o    They also speak Sadri and
Chhattisgarhi as second languages.
•    Economy:
o    Depend on small-scale farming, fishing, hunting, and foraging.
o    Practice jhoonga kheti (subsistence agriculture) by clearing forests for crops like lentils.
o    Live in nuclear family structures, often abandoning homes where family members die.
•    Social Structure:
o    Have their own panchayat that administers justice based on societal norms.
•    Religion:
o    Worship ancestors and deities like Sigri Dev, Gauria Dev, Mahadev, and Khudia Rani (supreme god).

Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)
•    Objective:
o    Improve the socio-economic status of PVTGs through interventions in health, education, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
•    Key Interventions:
o    Permanent housing, road connectivity, piped water, mobile medical units, hostels, Anganwadi, and skill development centres.
•    Support from Ministries:
o    Ministry of Ayush: Ayush Wellness Centres and mobile medical units.
o    Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Skill and vocational training programs.

•    Budget:
o    Total outlay: Rs 24,104 crore (Central: Rs 15,336 crore; States: Rs 8,768 crore).

Prelims Question:
With reference to the Pahadi Korwa tribe, consider the following statements:
1.    The Pahadi Korwa tribe primarily practices settled agriculture.
2.    The tribe speaks the Korwa language, which belongs to the Munda branch of the Austroasiatic language family.
3.    The tribe’s primary deity is Mahadev (Lord Shiva).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    2 and 3 only
Answer: B) 2 only

Mains Question:
Question:
Discuss the socio-economic challenges faced by the Pahadi Korwa tribe and evaluate how

initiatives like PM-JANMAN can bridge these gaps to enhance their overall well-being.

6.    Presbyopia
•    Definition:

It is not recommended for people with iris inflammation.
•    Side Effects:
o    Possible side effects include itching, redness, eyebrow pain, and muscle spasms in the eyes.

o    A common age-related condition        

where the eyes lose the ability to focus on nearby objects. Usually starts around the age of 40.
o    Management: Typically managed by wearing spectacles.
How does PresVu work?
•    Active Ingredient:
o    The active compound in PresVu is Pilocarpine. It contracts the iris muscles, improving near vision by

helping the eyes focus better on nearby objects.
•    Mechanism:
o    Pilocarpine contracts the muscles controlling pupil size, improving the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects.
o    The eye drop uses advanced dynamic buffer technology, which adapts to the pH level of tears, ensuring consistent efficacy and safety for extended use.
•    Usage:
o    PresVu is a prescription-only eye drop with effects lasting 4-6 hours.

Prelims Question:
With reference to PresVu, consider the following statements:
1.    Pilocarpine, the active ingredient in PresVu, improves vision by dilating the pupil.
2.    PresVu is suitable for use in individuals with iris inflammation.
3.    The effects of PresVu last for 4-6 hours. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: C) 3 only

Mains Question:
Discuss the potential advantages and limitations of using eye drops like PresVu for managing presbyopia. How does it compare to conventional methods such as spectacles?

7.    India-Russia Bilateral Trade
Status of India-Russia Trade Ties:
•    India’s total bilateral trade with Russia stood at ~USD 13 billion in 2021-22, up from USD 8.14 billion in 2020-21.
•    Russia is now India’s 7th largest trading partner, moving up from the 25th position in 2021.


•    The US, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia recorded higher trade volumes with India during the first five months of 2022-23.

Concerns Related to Bilateral Trade:
•    Trade Imbalance:
o    In 2020-21, India's imports from Russia were USD 17.23 billion, while exports were only USD
992.73 million, creating a negative trade balance of USD 16.24 billion.
o    Russia’s share in India’s total trade rose to 3.54% in 2022-23, up from 1.27% in 2021-22.
Factors Causing Trade Imbalance:
•    The surge in oil and fertilizer imports from Russia, driven by Western sanctions, led to the jump in bilateral trade.
•    Petroleum oil accounted for 84% of India’s total imports, with fertilizers second at 91% of total imports from Russia.
Addressing the Trade Imbalance:
•    Indian Exports to Russia:
o    There is a focus on expanding machinery sector exports from India to Russia.
•    Rupee-Ruble Mechanism:
o    Both countries are in talks to adopt a Rupee-Ruble payment

system to circumvent Western sanctions.
•    New Industrial Points and FTA:
o    Discussions are underway to identify new sectors for trade and negotiate a Free Trade Agreement.
Different Aspects of Indo-Russia Relations: Historical Background:
•    During the Cold War, India and the Soviet Union shared a close strategic, military, and economic relationship, continuing after the USSR's dissolution. However, in recent years, Russia's growing ties with China and Pakistan have raised concerns in India.
Political Relations:
•    India and Russia hold annual meetings of two Inter-Governmental Commissions:
o    IRIGC-TEC (Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation)
o    IRIGC-MTC (Military-Technical Cooperation)
Defence and Security Relations:
•    The two countries hold the INDRA tri- service exercise.
•    Joint military programmes include:
o    BrahMos cruise missile programme
o    Sukhoi Su-30MKI programme
o    S-400 Triumf missile system
o    T-90S Bhishma tanks
o    INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier programme
Nuclear Energy Cooperation:
•    Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is being built with Russian cooperation.
•    Both nations are collaborating on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project in Bangladesh.


Prelims Question:
With reference to India-Russia bilateral trade, consider the following statements:
1.    Russia is India’s largest trading partner in terms of volume.
2.    Petroleum oil constitutes the majority of India’s imports from Russia.
3.    India has a trade surplus with Russia. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 only

Mains Question:
Discuss the trade imbalance between India and Russia and suggest measures to address it. How do geopolitical factors influence the bilateral trade relationship between the two countries?

8.    Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Aimed at Enhancing Research in India’s Universities
Context:
•    The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has been launched to enhance research capabilities in India’s universities, promoting industry

collaboration, streamlining funding, and improving infrastructure, modeled after the US National Science Foundation.
What is the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)?
•    Established under the ANRF Act, 2023, the foundation is focused on improving research across Indian universities and colleges, especially state universities.
•    The initiative has a budget of Rs 50,000 crore over five years, with the government contributing Rs 14,000 crore, and the rest from industry and philanthropists.
•    It promotes industry-academia collaboration, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020, to help India evolve into a knowledge-driven society.
What challenges does the ANRF address?
•    Bureaucratic Delays: ANRF aims to reduce delays in fund disbursal by cutting through bureaucratic hurdles caused by General Financial Rules (GFR).
•    Duplication in R&D: By coordinating research efforts across sectors (e.g., defence, agriculture, health), ANRF seeks to eliminate inefficiencies.
•    Industry-Academia Collaboration: The foundation promotes market-aligned research and innovation by fostering partnerships between industry and academia.
Additional Support Provided by ANRF:
•    The foundation supports lower Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), focusing on long-term research with high failure rates and lower capital needs, often involving student contributions.
•    ANRF works in tandem with the government’s Rs 1 lakh-crore corpus for higher TRL research, targeting Focused Research Organisations (FROs) and deep- 
tech startups, thus covering the entire research spectrum.
Long-term Goal of ANRF:
•    ANRF’s ultimate aim is to transform India into a knowledge-driven economy, promoting sustainable development and innovation across sectors by improving research infrastructure and fostering collaboration.

Prelims Question:
With reference to the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), consider the following statements:
1.    ANRF was established under the ANRF Act, 2023, to enhance research capabilities in Indian universities.
2.    ANRF promotes industry-academia collaboration, modeled after the US National Science Foundation.
3.    The government will fund the entire ANRF budget of Rs 50,000 crore over five years.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Mains Question:
Discuss how the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) aims to address challenges in India's research ecosystem. How does it align with India's long-term goal of becoming a knowledge-driven society?