🇮🇳 NATIONAL AFFAIRS
PM Modi’s Infrastructure Development Initiative – ₹2.5 Lakh Crore Package
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Prime Minister announces massive infrastructure development package worth ₹2.5 lakh crore for FY 2025-26
- Focus on rural connectivity with construction of 50,000 km all-weather roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
- Railway modernization receives ₹75,000 crore allocation for high-speed corridors and station upgrades
- Digital infrastructure expansion includes fiber optic connectivity to 2.5 lakh gram panchayats
- Green infrastructure development prioritized with ₹50,000 crore for renewable energy projects • Employment generation estimated at 2.5 crore person-days through infrastructure projects
- Public-private partnership model promoted for sustainable infrastructure financing and development
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP):
- Launch: December 2019
- Total Projects: 9,000+ infrastructure projects
- Investment: ₹111 lakh crores (2020-2025)
- Sectors: Transportation, energy, water, digital, social infrastructure
- Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):
- Launch: December 25, 2000
- Objective: All-weather road connectivity to rural habitations
- Coverage: Habitations with 500+ population (250+ in hilly areas)
- Achievement: 7.5+ lakh km roads constructed
- Railway Infrastructure Development:
- Dedicated Freight Corridors: Eastern and Western corridors
- High-Speed Rail: Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project
- Electrification: 100% electrification of broad gauge routes achieved
- Station Modernization: 1,200+ stations under redevelopment
- Digital Infrastructure Initiatives:
- BharatNet: Fiber optic network for gram panchayats
- Digital India: Comprehensive digital transformation program
- Common Service Centers: 4.5+ lakh centers operational
- JAM Trinity: Jan Dhan + Aadhaar + Mobile convergence
- Green Infrastructure Development:
- National Solar Mission: 100 GW solar capacity target achieved
- Green Energy Corridors: Transmission infrastructure for renewable energy
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: ₹19,744 crores allocation
- Electric Mobility: Charging infrastructure and EV promotion
- Financing Mechanisms:
- National Investment and Infrastructure Fund: ₹40,000 crores corpus
- Infrastructure Development Finance Corporation: Long-term infrastructure funding
- Public-Private Partnerships: Risk sharing and private sector participation
- Infrastructure Bonds: Tax-free bonds for infrastructure financing
National Food Security Mission Enhancement Program
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Government launches enhanced National Food Security Mission with ₹18,000 crore allocation • Focus on increasing production of rice, wheat, pulses, and oilseeds through scientific methods
- Technology-driven agriculture promoted with precision farming and satellite monitoring
- Climate-resilient varieties distributed to farmers in drought and flood-prone areas
- Nutrition-sensitive agriculture approach emphasizes fortified crops and diverse food production • Women farmers receive special support through dedicated training and financial assistance programs
- International cooperation established for technology transfer and best practices sharing
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM):
- Launch: 2007-08 (11th Five Year Plan)
- Objective: Self-sufficiency in food grains production
- Coverage: 638 districts across India
- Components: Rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, commercial crops
- Food Security Statistics in India:
- Food Grain Production: 330+ million tonnes (2024-25)
- Rice Production: 135+ million tonnes
- Wheat Production: 115+ million tonnes
- Pulses Production: 27+ million tonnes
- National Food Security Act 2013:
- Coverage: 67% of population (81.35 crore people)
- Entitlement: 5 kg per person per month at subsidized rates
- Implementation: Through Public Distribution System
- Special Provisions: Pregnant women and lactating mothers support
- Technology Integration in Agriculture:
- Digital Agriculture: Crop monitoring through satellites
- Precision Farming: GPS-guided machinery and sensors
- Soil Health Cards: 22+ crore cards distributed
- Weather Forecasting: IMD agro-meteorological advisories
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture:
- Drought-Resistant Varieties: High-yielding and stress-tolerant crops
- Water Management: Micro-irrigation and watershed development
- Crop Insurance: PM Fasal Bima Yojana coverage
- Climate Information: Early warning systems for farmers
- Supporting Schemes and Programs:
- PM-Kisan: Direct income support ₹6,000 per year
- Kisan Credit Cards: 7+ crore active cards
- e-NAM: Electronic National Agriculture Market
- Minimum Support Price: MSP for 23 crops
TAMIL NADU STATE AFFAIRS
Tamil Nadu Flood Relief and Rehabilitation Program
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Tamil Nadu government allocates additional ₹35.50 crore for flood relief in 12 severely affected districts
- Comprehensive rehabilitation program launched for families affected by recent monsoon flooding
- Infrastructure restoration prioritized including roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities
- Agricultural support provided to farmers with crop loss compensation and input subsidies
- Early warning systems strengthened to prevent future flood-related damages
- Disaster-resilient construction promoted through building codes and planning regulations
- Community participation ensured through local disaster management committees and training programs
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- Tamil Nadu Disaster Management Framework:
- State Disaster Management Authority: Apex body for disaster management
- District Disaster Management Authorities: 38 districts with local coordination
- State Disaster Response Force: Specialized rescue and relief operations
- Emergency Operations Center: 24×7 monitoring and coordination
- Flood Management in Tamil Nadu:
- Flood Prone Areas: 13 out of 38 districts highly flood-prone
- Major River Systems: Cauvery, Vaigai, Thamiraparani vulnerable to flooding
- Coastal Vulnerability: 1,076 km coastline prone to cyclones and storm surge
- Urban Flooding: Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai face waterlogging issues
- Disaster Relief Mechanisms:
- State Disaster Relief Fund: Central and state government contributions
- National Disaster Relief Fund: Additional support for severe disasters
- Chief Minister’s Relief Fund: Public contributions for disaster relief
- Insurance Schemes: Crop insurance and asset protection
- Early Warning Systems:
- Indian Meteorological Department: Weather forecasting and warnings
- Central Water Commission: Flood forecasting for major rivers
- Tamil Nadu Disaster Management: SMS and media alerts
- Village Level: Community-based early warning systems
- Infrastructure Resilience:
- Building Codes: IS codes for disaster-resistant construction
- Drainage Systems: Storm water management in urban areas
- Flood Control: Dams, reservoirs, and flood barriers
- Evacuation Plans: Community shelters and evacuation routes
- Agricultural Disaster Management:
- Crop Loss Assessment: Revenue department damage evaluation
- Compensation Schemes: Input subsidies and direct cash support
- Alternative Livelihoods: Skill development for affected farmers
- Seed Distribution: High-quality seeds for replanting
Tamil Nadu Youth Skill Development and Employment Generation Program
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Comprehensive youth skill development program launched with ₹5,000 crore allocation over three years
- Partnership with leading industries ensures job-oriented training aligned with market demands
- Focus on emerging sectors including renewable energy, electric vehicles, and digital technologies
- Rural youth receive special attention through mobile training units and local skill centers
- Entrepreneurship development promotes startup culture with incubation support and funding
- International collaboration brings global best practices in skill development and certification
- Placement guarantee provided with 70% job placement target within six months of training completion
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- Tamil Nadu Skill Development Statistics:
- Youth Population: 1.8+ crore (age group 15-35 years)
- Employable Youth: 45 lakh youth entering job market annually
- Skill Centers: 2,500+ centers across the state
- Training Capacity: 5 lakh trainees annually
- Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC):
- Establishment: 2013
- Objective: Coordinated skill development across the state
- Programs: 200+ courses in 40+ sectors
- Partnerships: Industry, academic institutions, international organizations
- Key Training Sectors:
- Manufacturing: Automobile, textiles, electronics, engineering
- Services: IT, healthcare, hospitality, retail, logistics
- Agriculture: Agri-business, food processing, organic farming
- Emerging Sectors: Renewable energy, artificial intelligence, robotics
- Employment Generation Schemes:
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana: Central skill development scheme
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana: Rural youth skill development
- Stand-Up India: Entrepreneurship for SC/ST and women
- Mudra Yojana: Micro-enterprise funding support
- Industrial Training Infrastructure:
- ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes): 400+ government and private ITIs
- Polytechnic Colleges: 500+ institutions for technical education
- Skill Universities: Dedicated institutions for skill-based education
- Center of Excellence: Advanced training centers with modern technology
- Quality Assurance Framework:
- National Skill Qualification Framework: Competency-based standards
- Sector Skill Councils: Industry-led skill development bodies
- Assessment and Certification: Third-party evaluation systems
- Recognition of Prior Learning: Credit for existing skills and experience
 ECONOMIC AFFAIRS
India’s Merchandise Trade Performance
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- India’s merchandise exports reach $49.2 billion in August 2025, showing 13.8% year-on-year growth
- Imports decline to $66.8 billion, resulting in improved trade deficit of $17.6 billion
- Engineering goods lead export growth with 18% increase driven by global demand recovery
- Pharmaceutical exports maintain strong performance with $2.8 billion monthly exports
- Trade with ASEAN countries shows remarkable improvement with 22% growth in bilateral commerce
- Export incentive schemes demonstrate positive impact on competitiveness and market expansion
- Services trade surplus of $12.4 billion helps offset merchandise trade deficit significantly
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- India’s Foreign Trade Statistics (2024-25):
- Total Trade: $1.02+ trillion (merchandise + services)
- Merchandise Trade: $770+ billion
- Services Trade: $350+ billion
- Trade Deficit: Merchandise deficit offset by services surplus
- Major Export Categories:
- Engineering Goods: $109+ billion (25% of exports)
- Petroleum Products: $68+ billion
- Textiles and Garments: $36+ billion
- Pharmaceuticals: $25+ billion
- Gems and Jewelry: $35+ billion
- Top Trading Partners:
- United States: $190+ billion (largest partner)
- China: $125+ billion (complex relationship)
- UAE: $83+ billion (strategic partner)
- Germany: $77+ billion (technology cooperation)
- Saudi Arabia: $52+ billion (energy imports)
- Export Promotion Schemes:
- RoDTEP: Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products
- Advance Authorization: Duty-free imports for export production
- EPCG: Export Promotion Capital Goods scheme
- SEZ: Special Economic Zones for export manufacturing
- Trade Policy Framework:
- Foreign Trade Policy: 2023-2028 framework
- Export Target: $2 trillion by 2030
- WTO Compliance: Multilateral trade rules adherence
- FTA Strategy: Free trade agreements with key partners
- Import Management:
- Critical Raw Materials: Identified list for strategic imports
- Quality Control Orders: Standards for import substitution
- Tariff Structure: Balanced approach for domestic industry protection
- Import Monitoring: Regular assessment of import trends
Digital Rupee (e-Rupee) Expansion and Adoption Drive
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) expansion reaches 50 cities with 5 crore registered users
- Retail and wholesale CBDC transactions cross ₹1,000 crore daily volume milestone
- Offline payment capability enables transactions without internet connectivity in rural areas
- International remittances pilot launched with UAE and Singapore for cross-border payments
- Merchant adoption accelerates with 15 lakh businesses accepting digital rupee payments
- Privacy features enhanced while maintaining regulatory compliance and anti-money laundering standards
- Integration with existing payment systems ensures seamless interoperability across platforms
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Framework:
- Launch: Wholesale CBDC (November 2022), Retail CBDC (December 2022)
- Design: Blockchain-based digital token representing fiat currency
- Types: Retail e-Rupee for public, Wholesale e-Rupee for financial institutions
- Legal Status: Same as physical currency with RBI backing
- e-Rupee Features and Characteristics:
- Offline Capability: Transactions without internet connectivity
- Privacy: Selective privacy with regulatory compliance
- Programmability: Smart contract capabilities for specific use cases
- Interoperability: Works with existing payment infrastructure
- Global CBDC Context:
- Countries Exploring: 130+ countries researching CBDCs
- Operational CBDCs: Bahamas, Nigeria, Jamaica leading
- Major Economies: China (Digital Yuan), EU (Digital Euro) in development
- India’s Position: Among early adopters with comprehensive pilot
- Technology Infrastructure:
- Distributed Ledger: Blockchain technology for transaction recording
- Digital Wallets: Specialized apps for e-Rupee storage and transfer
- QR Codes: Simple merchant payment interface
- Bank Integration: All major banks participating in pilot
- Monetary Policy Implications:
- Direct Policy Transmission: Enhanced monetary policy effectiveness
- Financial Inclusion: Access to digital payments for unbanked population
- Reduced Cash Dependency: Lower currency printing and management costs
- Real-time Monitoring: Better economic data and transaction tracking
- Regulatory Framework:
- RBI Guidelines: Comprehensive regulatory approach
- KYC Requirements: Identity verification for wallet creation
- Transaction Limits: Daily and monthly limits for security
- Data Protection: Privacy safeguards and data localization
 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Indian Space Research Organisation’s Mars Mission-2 Final Preparations
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- ISRO completes final testing phase for Mars Orbiter Mission-2 (Mangalyaan-2) scheduled for December 2025 launch
- Advanced scientific instruments include high-resolution cameras and atmospheric analysis equipment
- Indigenous technology development achieves 95% self-reliance in spacecraft manufacturing
- International collaboration with NASA and ESA enhances mission success probability
- Mission objectives focus on water detection, atmospheric composition, and geological mapping • Cost-effective approach maintains ISRO’s reputation for frugal engineering solutions
- Technology demonstrations include advanced propulsion systems and communication equipment
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- ISRO Mars Missions Overview:
- Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM-1): Launched November 5, 2013, successful Mars orbit insertion
- Mission Cost: ₹450 crores (most cost-effective Mars mission globally)
- Duration: Planned 6 months, operated for 8+ years
- Scientific Achievements: Methane detection, surface mapping, atmospheric studies
- Mangalyaan-2 Mission Details:
- Launch Window: December 2025
- Mission Duration: 5+ years operational life
- Scientific Payload: 8 advanced instruments
- Orbit: Highly elliptical Mars orbit for comprehensive coverage
- ISRO’s Planetary Exploration Program:
- Moon Missions: Chandrayaan-1, 2, 3 (successful lunar landing)
- Venus Mission: Shukrayaan-1 planned
- Solar Mission: Aditya-L1 operational at Sun-Earth L1 point
- Future Missions: Mars sample return, Jupiter exploration
- Launch Vehicle and Technology:
- PSLV: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle for Mars missions
- GSLV Mk III: Heavy lift capability for complex missions
- Indigenous Technology: Navigation, propulsion, communication systems
- Ground Infrastructure: Deep Space Network for mission control
- Scientific Objectives:
- Atmospheric Studies: Composition, dynamics, escape processes
- Surface Geology: Mineral composition, geological features
- Water Search: Subsurface water detection capabilities
- Climate Research: Martian weather patterns and seasonal changes
- International Cooperation:
- NASA: Data sharing and technical collaboration
- ESA: Joint mission coordination and communication support
- Roscosmos: Experience sharing in Mars exploration
- Space Agencies: Global mars exploration coordination
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
India-Japan Space Cooperation Agreement Enhancement
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- India and Japan sign enhanced space cooperation agreement for lunar and Mars exploration missions
- Joint satellite development program launched for earth observation and disaster management
- Technology transfer agreements enable sharing of advanced propulsion and navigation systems • Commercial space sector partnerships promote private sector collaboration between both countries
- Student and researcher exchange programs strengthen space science education cooperation
- Joint deep space missions planned including asteroid exploration and outer planet studies
- Dual-use technology development ensures both civilian and strategic applications
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- India-Japan Space Cooperation Framework:
- First Agreement: 2008 space cooperation memorandum
- Enhanced Partnership: 2025 comprehensive agreement
- Focus Areas: Earth observation, lunar exploration, Mars missions, technology transfer
- Commercial Cooperation: Private sector partnerships and joint ventures
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA):
- Establishment: 2003 (merger of three organizations)
- Major Achievements: Hayabusa asteroid missions, lunar missions, ISS participation
- Launch Vehicles: H-IIA, H-IIB, H3 rocket systems
- Space Centers: Tanegashima Space Center, Tsukuba Space Center
- Bilateral Space Projects:
- Joint Satellite Missions: Earth observation and climate monitoring
- Lunar Cooperation: Sample sharing and joint exploration
- Mars Missions: Data sharing and coordination
- Technology Development: Propulsion, navigation, materials
- India-Japan Strategic Partnership:
- Special Strategic Global Partnership: Elevated relationship status
- Defense Cooperation: Space-based surveillance and communication
- Economic Partnership: Technology transfer and investment
- Academic Exchange: University partnerships and research collaboration
- Asian Space Cooperation:
- Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum: Multilateral cooperation
- ASEAN Space Cooperation: Regional satellite programs
- Disaster Management: Regional early warning systems
- Capacity Building: Training and technology sharing programs
- Commercial Space Sector:
- Indian Space Sector: 150+ space technology companies
- Japanese Industry: Mitsubishi, Kawasaki aerospace companies
- Joint Ventures: Technology development and manufacturing
- Market Access: Mutual market entry facilitation
 ENVIRONMENT & CLIMATE
National Wetland Conservation and Restoration Program
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Government launches comprehensive wetland conservation program covering 2,500+ wetlands across India
- ₹10,000 crore allocated over five years for wetland restoration and biodiversity conservation
- Community-based conservation approach engages local communities in wetland management
- Technology integration includes satellite monitoring and water quality assessment systems
- International cooperation established under Ramsar Convention for global wetland conservation
- Livelihood opportunities created for local communities through eco-tourism and sustainable harvesting
- Research and education programs enhance understanding of wetland ecosystems and their importance
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- India’s Wetland Statistics:
- Total Wetlands: 7.57 lakh wetlands covering 15.3 million hectares
- Ramsar Sites: 75 internationally important wetlands
- Wetland Types: Coastal, freshwater, man-made, high-altitude wetlands
- Major Wetlands: Chilika Lake, Wular Lake, Loktak Lake, Keoladeo
- Wetland Conservation Framework:
- Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017: Legal framework
- National Wetland Conservation Program: Central government scheme
- State Wetland Authorities: State-level implementation bodies
- Central Wetlands Regulatory Authority: Apex regulatory body
- Ecological Importance of Wetlands:
- Biodiversity: Habitat for migratory birds and aquatic species
- Water Purification: Natural filtration and waste treatment
- Flood Control: Storm water absorption and flood prevention
- Climate Regulation: Carbon sequestration and microclimate moderation
- Threats to Wetlands:
- Encroachment: Urban and agricultural expansion
- Pollution: Industrial discharge and agricultural runoff
- Climate Change: Altered precipitation and temperature patterns
- Invasive Species: Non-native species disrupting ecosystems
- Ramsar Convention and India:
- Convention: International treaty for wetland conservation (1971)
- India’s Membership: Party since 1982
- Obligations: Wise use, international cooperation, monitoring
- Recent Additions: Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary, Khijadiya Wildlife Sanctuary
- Conservation Strategies:
- Integrated Management: Ecosystem-based approach
- Community Participation: Local stakeholder engagement
- Scientific Research: Monitoring and adaptive management
- International Cooperation: Global best practices sharing
 PERSON IN NEWS
Dr. T.C.A. Kalyani Appointed as New Comptroller and Auditor General of India
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Dr. T.C.A. Kalyani appointed as the new Comptroller and Auditor General of India, succeeding Girish Chandra Murmu
- First woman IAS officer to hold the position of CAG with extensive experience in public administration
- Previous roles include Chief Secretary of Telangana and Secretary in various central government departments
- Focus areas include digital audit techniques and enhanced transparency in government financial management
- Technology integration emphasized for efficient audit processes and real-time monitoring systems
- International cooperation planned for sharing audit best practices and capacity building programs
- Commitment to constitutional independence and professional excellence in audit functions
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG):
- Constitutional Position: Article 148-151 of Indian Constitution
- Appointment: President of India appoints CAG
- Tenure: 6 years or 65 years age, whichever is earlier
- Independence: Cannot be removed except by impeachment process
- Powers and Functions of CAG:
- Audit of Accounts: Union and state government accounts
- Performance Audit: Efficiency and effectiveness of programs
- Compliance Audit: Adherence to rules and regulations
- Revenue Audit: Tax collection and revenue systems
- CAG Reports and Parliamentary Oversight:
- Audit Reports: Submitted to President/Governors
- Parliamentary Committee: Public Accounts Committee examination
- Follow-up: Action taken reports on audit observations
- Transparency: Public disclosure of audit findings
- International Cooperation:
- INTOSAI: International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions
- ASOSAI: Asian Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions
- Capacity Building: Training and knowledge sharing programs
- Best Practices: Global audit standards and methodologies
 AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
National Science Day 2026 Theme Announcement – “Science for Sustainable Future”
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Department of Science and Technology announces theme for National Science Day 2026 as “Science for Sustainable Future”
- Focus on climate change mitigation, renewable energy, and sustainable development through scientific innovation
- Recognition programs launched for outstanding contributions in environmental science and green technology
- Student participation encouraged through nationwide science competitions and exhibitions
- International collaboration promoted for addressing global sustainability challenges through science
- Women scientists receive special recognition for contributions to environmental and sustainability research
- Public engagement initiatives aim to create awareness about science’s role in sustainable development
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- National Science Day:
- Date: February 28 annually
- Significance: Discovery of Raman Effect by C.V. Raman (1928)
- First Celebration: 1987
- Objective: Promote scientific temper and encourage innovation
- C.V. Raman and Raman Effect:
- Discovery: February 28, 1928
- Nobel Prize: Physics (1930) – First Indian to win Nobel in Science
- Raman Effect: Light scattering phenomenon
- Applications: Spectroscopy, material analysis, medical diagnostics
- Science Awards in India:
- Bharat Ratna: Highest civilian honor (scientists honored)
- Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize: Excellence in science and technology
- Padma Awards: Padma Vibhushan, Bhushan, Shri for scientists
- National Science Talent Search: Student recognition program
 PLACE IN NEWS
Hampi World Heritage Site Conservation Master Plan 2025-2035
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- Archaeological Survey of India releases comprehensive master plan for Hampi conservation
- ₹500 crore allocated for infrastructure development and heritage preservation
- Sustainable tourism model balances visitor experience with monument protection
- Digital documentation project creates virtual reality experiences of historical monuments
- Local community integration ensures participation in conservation and tourism activities
- International expertise engaged for advanced conservation techniques and best practices
- Research center establishment promotes archaeological studies and heritage education
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- Hampi World Heritage Site:
- UNESCO Recognition: 1986 World Heritage Site inscription
- Location: Vijayanagara district, Karnataka
- Historical Period: Capital of Vijayanagara Empire (14th-16th centuries)
- Area: 4,187 hectares protected area
- Archaeological Significance:
- Monuments: 1,600+ structures including temples, palaces, markets
- Architecture: Dravidian and Indo-Islamic architectural styles
- Major Sites: Virupaksha Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Elephant Stables
- Cultural Landscape: Sacred geography and urban planning
- Conservation Challenges:
- Natural Threats: Weathering, earthquakes, floods
- Human Impact: Tourism pressure, encroachment, vandalism
- Funding: Resource requirements for maintenance and conservation
- Management: Coordination between multiple agencies
ART AND CULTURE
India International Film Festival 2025 Preparations in Goa
📰 NEWS ANALYSIS
- 55th International Film Festival of India scheduled in Goa with record 300+ film submissions
- Special focus on regional cinema celebrating linguistic diversity and cultural heritage
- International jury includes acclaimed filmmakers from 15 countries ensuring global perspective • Film restoration program showcases digitally restored classics from Indian cinema archives
- Parallel cultural events include music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions
- Industry conclave provides platform for film financing discussions and co-production opportunities
- Student film competition encourages young talent and innovative storytelling approaches
📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS
- International Film Festival of India (IFFI):
- Establishment: 1952
- Venue: Goa (since 2004, previously Delhi)
- Frequency: Annual festival
- Recognition: One of Asia’s oldest and most significant film festivals
- Indian Cinema Heritage:
- First Film: Raja Harishchandra (1913) by Dadasaheb Phalke
- Golden Age: 1950s-1970s with legendary filmmakers
- Regional Cinema: 22 official languages with distinct cinematic traditions
- Contemporary: Bollywood, parallel cinema, new wave movements
🎯 EXAM PREPARATION ESSENTIALS
September 4, 2025 Key Developments Summary
Major Policy Announcements:
- Infrastructure Package: ₹2.5 lakh crore allocation for comprehensive development
- Food Security Mission: ₹18,000 crore for enhanced agricultural productivity
- Tamil Nadu Flood Relief: ₹35.50 crore additional allocation for 12 districts
- Wetland Conservation: ₹10,000 crore program for 2,500+ wetlands
Technology and Innovation:
- Mars Mission-2: Final preparations for December 2025 launch
- Digital Rupee: Expansion to 50 cities with 5 crore users
- Space Cooperation: Enhanced India-Japan partnership for lunar exploration
- Skill Development: ₹5,000 crore Tamil Nadu youth employment program
International Engagement:
- Trade Performance: $49.2 billion exports with 13.8% growth
- CBDC Expansion: Cross-border payment pilots with UAE and Singapore
- Space Diplomacy: Japan cooperation for deep space missions
- Conservation: International wetland cooperation under Ramsar Convention
📊 SEPTEMBER 2025 UPDATED STATISTICS
Economic Indicators:
- Merchandise Exports: $49.2 billion (August 2025)
- Trade Deficit: $17.6 billion (improved from previous months)
- Digital Rupee Users: 5 crore registered users
- Infrastructure Investment: ₹2.5 lakh crore annual package
Development Programs:
- Food Security Allocation: ₹18,000 crore enhanced funding
- Tamil Nadu Youth Skills: ₹5,000 crore over three years
- Wetland Conservation: ₹10,000 crore