7th March 2025-Current Affairs

1. ISRO’s Semi-Cryogenic Engine (SE2000) Development – Science and Technology

Why in News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted a hot test on its semi-cryogenic engine (SE2000), marking a critical step towards developing a high-thrust propulsion system for future space missions.

Key Features of the Semi-Cryogenic Engine (SE2000)

Significance of the Semi-Cryogenic Engine Development

Enhanced Payload Capacity

• The higher thrust (2000 kN) will allow ISRO to carry heavier payloads into space.
• Beneficial for future crewed missions (Gaganyaan) and deep-space explorations.

Cost-Effectiveness

• Refined kerosene (RP-1) is cheaper and easier to handle than liquid hydrogen (used in cryogenic engines).
• Reduces overall mission costs, making Indian space missions more affordable & competitive.

Improved Storage & Handling

• Unlike liquid hydrogen, kerosene remains liquid at room temperature, simplifying storage & logistics.
• Ideal for long-term space missions & large-scale commercial launches.

Difference Between Semi-Cryogenic & Cryogenic Engines

Future Applications of Semi-Cryogenic Engine

• LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3): Enhances India’s heavy-lift capability.
• Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): Supports future crewed missions & interplanetary exploration.
• Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs): Could be integrated into upcoming reusable rocket technology.
• Commercial Satellite Launches: Strengthens India’s position in the global space market.

Why is This Important for HAS Exam?

• Science & Technology: Key development in India’s space technology advancements.
• Economic & Strategic Impact: Cost reduction, higher payload capacity, and India’s growing space economy.
• International Significance: Strengthens ISRO’s competitiveness in global space missions.
• Himachal Pradesh Relevance: Future space research collaborations and technology transfer benefits.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is the fuel combination used in ISRO’s Semi-Cryogenic Engine (SE2000)?
   a) Liquid Hydrogen & Liquid Oxygen
   b) Refined Kerosene & Liquid Oxygen
   c) Methane & Liquid Oxygen
   d) Solid Propellant & Liquid Oxygen
   Correct Answer: b) Refined Kerosene & Liquid Oxygen
2. Which of the following is an advantage of semi-cryogenic engines over traditional cryogenic engines?
   a) Higher cost of fuel
   b) More complex storage requirements
   c) Higher density impulse and cost-effectiveness
   d) Lower thrust production
   Correct Answer: c) Higher density impulse and cost-effectiveness
3. Which of the following Indian space missions will benefit from semi-cryogenic engine technology?
   a) Gaganyaan
   b) Chandrayaan-4
   c) Aditya-L1
   d) Mars Orbiter Mission-2
   Correct Answer: a) Gaganyaan
4. The thrust power of ISRO’s Semi-Cryogenic Engine (SE2000) is:
   a) 1000 kN
   b) 1500 kN
   c) 2000 kN
   d) 2500 kN
   Correct Answer: c) 2000 kN
5. Which launch vehicle will integrate the semi-cryogenic engine technology?
   a) PSLV
   b) SSLV
   c) LVM3 & NGLV
   d) GSLV-Mk II
   Correct Answer: c) LVM3 & NGLV

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the significance of ISRO’s semi-cryogenic engine development in the context of India’s space technology advancements.
2. How does the semi-cryogenic engine compare to traditional cryogenic engines in terms of efficiency, cost, and usability?
3. Explain how the development of semi-cryogenic technology will enhance India’s space exploration capabilities.
4. Analyze the role of ISRO’s Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) and how semi-cryogenic engines contribute to its objectives.
5. Critically evaluate India’s progress in launch vehicle technology and discuss how semi-cryogenic engines can impact the future of India’s space program.

Final Takeaway

The successful hot test of ISRO’s semi-cryogenic engine is a major breakthrough for India’s space program. It enhances payload capacity, reduces costs, and simplifies fuel management, making India’s space missions more efficient and globally competitive. This technology is crucial for future deep-space exploration, human spaceflight (Gaganyaan), and commercial launches.

2. NITI Aayog’s Paper on National Security Implications of Quantum Computing – Defence & Security

Why in News?

The NITI Aayog, India’s leading policy think tank, has published a comprehensive report on the national security implications of quantum computing. Given the rapid advancements in quantum technology worldwide, the report highlights India’s vulnerabilities, strategic opportunities, and the need for urgent action in this field.

The report emphasizes:

• The threat posed by quantum computers to cybersecurity and national security.
• The importance of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) for safeguarding India’s data and technology.
• The need for greater investment and policy focus on quantum computing to keep pace with global developments.

Key Features of Quantum Computing & Its Strategic Importance

Global Quantum Investments & India’s Position

• China is leading in quantum research, posing a strategic challenge to India.
• India’s lower investment is a concern, but frugal innovation in technology (as seen in ISRO) is an advantage.

Cybersecurity & Military Implications of Quantum Computing

Cybersecurity Threats

• Quantum computers can break RSA & ECC encryption, which are used to secure online banking, military data, and personal communications.
• India needs to adopt Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to safeguard its cybersecurity infrastructure.

Military & Strategic Uses

• Quantum radar & imaging → Can detect stealth aircraft and submarines.
• Quantum key distribution (QKD) → Enables unbreakable encryption for military & diplomatic communication.
• Quantum AI & simulations → Enhances warfare strategies and cyber defenses.

Challenges & Risks for India

Recommendations by NITI Aayog for India

1. Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Transition Plan
   • Upgrade government & defense encryption systems to quantum-safe standards.
2. Strengthening Domestic Quantum Hardware
   • Invest in domestic chip manufacturing & quantum component development.
3. Public-Private Partnerships
   • Encourage collaboration between startups, academia, and government.
4. Increasing Funding & Research
   • Scale up investments to match global leaders like China & USA.
5. Global Collaboration & Policy Development
   • Form strategic alliances with quantum leaders (EU, USA, Japan).

Relevance for Exam

• Science & Technology
  • Understanding emerging technologies and their impact on cybersecurity, AI, and computing.
  • India’s position in global technological advancements.
• National Security & Governance
  • Defense, encryption, and cybersecurity risks due to quantum advancements.
  • Government policies like the National Quantum Mission (NQM 2023).
• Economy & Global Relations
  • India’s funding gap compared to China & the USA.
  • Export controls & geopolitical competition in quantum technology.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is the main concern regarding quantum computing in cybersecurity?
   a) It slows down encryption.
   b) It can break traditional encryption methods.
   c) It cannot process large amounts of data.
   d) It only applies to medical research.
   Correct Answer: b) It can break traditional encryption methods.
2. Which country has the highest investment in quantum computing?
   a) USA
   b) India
   c) China
   d) Germany
   Correct Answer: c) China
3. Which Indian initiative focuses on quantum technology development?
   a) Digital India Mission
   b) National Quantum Mission (NQM)
   c) Atmanirbhar Bharat Quantum Initiative
   d) Make in India – Quantum Drive
   Correct Answer: b) National Quantum Mission (NQM)
4. Which of the following is NOT an application of quantum computing?
   a) Breaking encryption
   b) Faster weather prediction
   c) Traditional semiconductor manufacturing
   d) Advanced drug discovery
   Correct Answer: c) Traditional semiconductor manufacturing
5. What does Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) aim to do?
   a) Make encryption faster
   b) Develop unbreakable codes for cybersecurity
   c) Replace all classical computing systems
   d) Improve nuclear weapons technology
   Correct Answer: b) Develop unbreakable codes for cybersecurity

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the national security implications of quantum computing and how India can mitigate associated risks.
2. Explain the significance of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and why India needs a transition plan.
3. Critically evaluate India’s progress in quantum computing compared to global leaders like China and the USA.
4. What are the potential applications of quantum computing in defense, economy, and healthcare?
5. Analyze India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) and its role in strengthening India’s technological capabilities.

Final Takeaway

Quantum computing is a transformative technology with deep implications for national security, cybersecurity, and global geopolitics. The NITI Aayog report stresses that India must invest heavily in quantum research, develop domestic hardware, and transition to post-quantum cryptography to remain competitive in the global quantum race.

India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM 2023) is a step in the right direction, but greater funding, stronger policies, and international collaborations are essential for securing India’s future in this critical technology.

3. Over-centralisation Threatens Federal Health Policy – Governance

Why in News?

A recent Supreme Court ruling abolished domicile-based reservations in post-graduate medical admissions, sparking debates on public health management and governance in India.

• The ruling affects state investments in medical education and healthcare infrastructure.
• Domicile-based reservations help retain medical professionals in a state and address local healthcare needs.
• Without local recruitment guarantees, states may struggle to staff public hospitals, leading to regional healthcare disparities.

Key Features of the Issue

Supreme Court’s Arguments Against Domicile Reservations

1. Violation of Article 14 (Right to Equality)
   • Domicile-based reservations discriminate against non-local candidates with equal merit.
   • Educational opportunities should be based on merit, not regional restrictions.
2. Meritocracy in Medical Education
   • Domicile quotas may lower academic standards in specialized medical training.
   • High-quality medical education should be accessible to all candidates based on merit.
3. Impact on Mobility of Medical Professionals
   • Domicile-based quotas limit opportunities for skilled professionals across states.
   • Encouraging interstate mobility can improve healthcare expertise distribution.

Impact on States & Public Health

Possible Solutions & Policy Recommendations

1. Bond-Based Service Requirements
   • States can mandate compulsory service in rural areas after medical graduation.
2. Incentivizing Local Medical Professionals
   • Higher salaries, promotions, and infrastructure development to retain doctors in underserved areas.
3. Central-State Collaboration
   • A national framework for balanced seat allocation considering merit & local needs.
4. Expanding Medical Infrastructure
   • Increase medical college seats and improve training facilities in rural areas.

Relevance for Exam

• Indian Polity & Governance
  • Judicial rulings on education policies and state rights.
  • Impact of over-centralization on federalism in healthcare.
• Public Health & Administration
  • Challenges in medical workforce distribution.
  • Healthcare accessibility in rural areas.
• Economy & Social Justice
  • State investments in medical education and return on public funding.
  • Impact of policies on regional health inequalities.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What was the key constitutional argument against domicile-based reservations in medical education?
   a) Violation of Article 19 (Freedom of Movement)
   b) Violation of Article 14 (Right to Equality)
   c) Violation of Article 21 (Right to Life)
   d) Violation of Article 32 (Right to Constitutional Remedies)
   Correct Answer: b) Violation of Article 14 (Right to Equality)
2. How does the Supreme Court ruling on domicile-based reservations impact state healthcare systems?
   a) Increases funding for state medical education
   b) Reduces the availability of doctors in rural areas
   c) Strengthens state control over medical admissions
   d) Has no significant impact on healthcare policies
   Correct Answer: b) Reduces the availability of doctors in rural areas
3. Which of the following is a suggested alternative to domicile-based reservations for retaining doctors in rural areas?
   a) Reducing medical seats in state-run colleges
   b) Making service in rural areas compulsory through bond agreements
   c) Allowing only private medical colleges to operate in states
   d) Abolishing NEET-based admissions
   Correct Answer: b) Making service in rural areas compulsory through bond agreements
4. Which fundamental principle did the Supreme Court emphasize in its ruling on medical admissions?
   a) Social justice in education
   b) State autonomy in governance
   c) Merit-based selection in higher education
   d) Decentralization of health policies
   Correct Answer: c) Merit-based selection in higher education
5. What could be a long-term consequence of abolishing domicile-based reservations in medical education?
   a) More doctors willing to serve in rural areas
   b) States reducing investment in medical education
   c) Stronger public healthcare infrastructure
   d) Increased state autonomy over medical policies
   Correct Answer: b) States reducing investment in medical education

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on domicile-based reservations on India’s healthcare sector.
2. Examine how over-centralization of medical admissions can affect federal health policies and state autonomy.
3. Suggest policy measures that balance merit-based medical education with the need to retain doctors in underserved areas.
4. Analyze the role of Article 14 (Right to Equality) in the Supreme Court’s decision on domicile-based reservations.
5. Critically evaluate the challenges that state governments may face in medical education funding after the Supreme Court ruling.

Final Takeaway

The Supreme Court’s decision to abolish domicile-based reservations in medical admissions underscores the tension between meritocracy and regional healthcare needs.

While merit-based selection enhances educational fairness, it raises concerns about doctor shortages in states that invest in medical education.

A balanced policy—such as bond agreements, incentives for rural service, and federal-state collaboration—is needed to ensure that public healthcare remains strong while upholding constitutional principles.

4. Indus River: A Potential Economic Boost – Economy

Why in News?

Recent discoveries in the Indus River bed have revealed substantial gold reserves worth approximately ₹80,000 crore. This finding has the potential to provide a significant economic boost to Pakistan, which is currently facing severe economic challenges.

• The Indus River is one of Asia’s longest rivers, flowing approximately 2,880 km from Tibet to the Arabian Sea, passing through China, India, and Pakistan.
• It has historical significance, having supported the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s earliest urban societies.
• The discovery underscores the river’s importance in history, economy, and regional geopolitics.

Geographical Overview of the Indus River

Historical Significance of the Indus River

1. Indus Valley Civilization (3300 BCE – 1300 BCE)
   • One of the world’s earliest urban civilizations, contemporary to Mesopotamia & Egypt.
   • Major sites: Harappa & Mohenjo-Daro.
   • The river supported agriculture, trade, and urban settlements.
2. Influence on Culture & Religion
   • Mentioned in Rigveda as “Sindhu”, highlighting its ancient importance.
   • The name “India” originates from “Indus”, emphasizing its significance in Indian history.

Economic Potential of the Gold Discovery in the Indus River

Challenges Associated with Gold Extraction

Indus Waters Treaty (1960) – A Brief Overview

• Any large-scale mining or industrial use of Indus waters could trigger diplomatic tensions.
• India has been reviewing the treaty, especially after conflicts like Uri & Pulwama attacks.

Relevance for Exam

• Geography & Environment
  • Indus River’s role in India’s water system.
  • Impact of mining on ecosystems and water resources.
• Economy & International Relations
  • Gold reserves and economic potential for Pakistan & South Asia.
  • Water-sharing agreements (Indus Waters Treaty) & geopolitical implications.
• History & Civilization
  • Indus Valley Civilization and its connection to the river.
  • Cultural and historical significance of the Indus River in Indian heritage.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Where does the Indus River originate?
   a) Zanskar Range
   b) Mansarovar Lake, Tibet
   c) Pamir Mountains
   d) Hindu Kush Mountains
   Correct Answer: b) Mansarovar Lake, Tibet
2. Which of the following rivers is NOT a tributary of the Indus?
   a) Beas
   b) Sutlej
   c) Yamuna
   d) Chenab
   Correct Answer: c) Yamuna
3. Which treaty governs the water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan regarding the Indus River?
   a) Ganga Water Treaty
   b) Brahmaputra Treaty
   c) Indus Waters Treaty (1960)
   d) Ravi-Sutlej Agreement
   Correct Answer: c) Indus Waters Treaty (1960)
4. What is the estimated value of gold reserves recently discovered in the Indus River bed?
   a) ₹10,000 crore
   b) ₹50,000 crore
   c) ₹80,000 crore
   d) ₹1,00,000 crore
   Correct Answer: c) ₹80,000 crore
5. Which ancient civilization flourished along the Indus River?
   a) Mesopotamian Civilization
   b) Chinese Civilization
   c) Indus Valley Civilization
   d) Greek Civilization
   Correct Answer: c) Indus Valley Civilization

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the geographical and economic significance of the Indus River for India and its neighboring countries.
2. Analyze the impact of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960) on India-Pakistan relations.
3. Examine how recent gold discoveries in the Indus River could affect regional geopolitics and economy.
4. Explain the role of the Indus River in the development of the Indus Valley Civilization.
5. Critically evaluate the environmental risks associated with mining operations in river ecosystems.

Final Takeaway

The Indus River is not just a geographical and historical landmark, but also a key economic and strategic resource for South Asia.

• The discovery of ₹80,000 crore worth of gold could boost Pakistan’s economy, but challenges such as environmental impact, geopolitical tensions, and legal disputes must be addressed.
• The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) remains a crucial factor in India-Pakistan relations, influencing water management, agriculture, and industrial activities.
• Understanding the historical, economic, and geopolitical aspects of the Indus River is essential for competitive exams.

5. Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS) – Economy

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved a revision of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) with a total outlay of ₹3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26.

• A new component, “Pashu Aushadhi”, has been introduced to improve the availability of generic veterinary medicines.
• The scheme aims to enhance animal health, control livestock diseases, and improve veterinary services.
• Livestock sector plays a crucial role in rural economies, contributing to employment and food security.

Key Features of LHDCS

Disease Control & Vaccination Programs

• Mass vaccination drives are a major part of the scheme.
• Strengthening disease reporting and surveillance systems is also emphasized.

Sub-Components of LHDCS

• The Central Government and State Governments work together to implement these initiatives.

Economic & Social Benefits

Implementation & Funding Strategy

• Regular monitoring & assessment mechanisms are in place to ensure proper implementation.

Relevance for HAS Exam

• Economy & Rural Development
  • Boost to animal husbandry & rural livelihoods.
  • Employment generation in veterinary and livestock services.
• Agriculture & Veterinary Science
  • Disease control in livestock improves agricultural productivity.
  • Advancements in veterinary healthcare & mobile units.
• Governance & Policy Implementation
  • Central-State funding models in welfare schemes.
  • Union government’s role in public health & disease control.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is the primary objective of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS)?
   a) Providing free cattle to farmers
   b) Controlling and eradicating livestock diseases
   c) Subsidizing dairy farming equipment
   d) Promoting genetic modification in cattle
   Correct Answer: b) Controlling and eradicating livestock diseases
2. Which of the following diseases is NOT covered under the LHDCS vaccination program?
   a) Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)
   b) Lumpy Skin Disease
   c) Tuberculosis
   d) Brucellosis
   Correct Answer: c) Tuberculosis
3. What is the funding ratio for the Critical Animal Disease Control Programme (CADCP)?
   a) 60:40
   b) 90:10
   c) 100% Central Government funding
   d) 50:50
   Correct Answer: c) 100% Central Government funding
4. Which new component was introduced under the revised LHDCS in 2024?
   a) Rashtriya Gokul Mission
   b) National Animal Vaccination Scheme
   c) Pashu Aushadhi
   d) Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund
   Correct Answer: c) Pashu Aushadhi
5. For North Eastern and Himalayan states, what is the Centre-State funding ratio under LHDCS (except for CADCP)?
   a) 50:50
   b) 90:10
   c) 75:25
   d) 100% State-funded
   Correct Answer: b) 90:10

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the role of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS) in improving livestock productivity and rural livelihoods.
2. Analyze the impact of livestock diseases on the Indian agricultural economy and the measures taken to control them.
3. Explain the significance of vaccination programs in preventing livestock diseases and their contribution to food security.
4. Critically evaluate the funding structure of the LHDCS and its effectiveness in different regions of India.
5. Suggest policy recommendations to enhance veterinary healthcare access in rural India.

Final Takeaway

The Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS) plays a critical role in disease prevention, rural development, and economic growth by:

• Improving animal health through vaccination & veterinary care.
• Enhancing milk, meat, and wool production.
• Providing employment & boosting the rural economy.

The ₹3,880 crore outlay and introduction of “Pashu Aushadhi” (affordable veterinary medicines) mark a significant step towards better livestock healthcare and disease control in India.

6. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme – Economy

Why in News?

Punjab has fully utilized ₹4,713 crore allocated under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme, making it the top-ranked state in India for implementing this initiative.

• As a result, Punjab has been granted an additional ₹2,337 crore to further expand its agricultural infrastructure projects.
• The AIF is a ₹1 lakh crore financing facility launched in July 2020 to support post-harvest agricultural infrastructure and community farming assets.
• It provides medium- to long-term debt financing at subsidized interest rates, along with credit guarantee support to eligible beneficiaries.

🔹 Key Features of the AIF Scheme

🔹 Eligible Projects Under AIF

• These projects help reduce post-harvest losses and increase farmer incomes.

🔹 Eligible Beneficiaries Under AIF

• The scheme supports both individual farmers & large-scale agricultural enterprises.

🔹 Implementation & Monitoring

• Ensures transparency & accountability in fund utilization.

🔹 Economic & Agricultural Benefits of AIF

• The AIF promotes sustainable farming by integrating renewable energy & smart technology.

🔹 Relevance for HAS Exam

➡️ Economy & Rural Development

• Boosts agricultural infrastructure, supporting rural employment.
• Encourages public-private partnerships (PPP) in agriculture.

➡️ Agriculture & Technology

• Post-harvest infrastructure & value addition help reduce farm losses.
• Incorporation of agri-tech solutions like drones & AI-based monitoring.

➡️ Governance & Policy Implementation

• Government initiatives for doubling farmer income.
• Role of credit financing & interest subvention schemes.

🔹 Possible HAS Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

📌 Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is the total corpus of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme?
   a) ₹50,000 crore
   b) ₹75,000 crore
   c) ₹1 lakh crore ✅
   d) ₹1.5 lakh crore
2. Which of the following is NOT an eligible project under AIF?
   a) Warehouse construction
   b) Cold storage facility
   c) Urban real estate development
   d) Food processing units
   ✅ Correct Answer: c) Urban real estate development
3. What is the maximum loan amount eligible for a 3% interest subvention under AIF?
   a) ₹50 lakh
   b) ₹1 crore
   c) ₹2 crore ✅
   d) ₹5 crore
4. Which Indian state has been ranked first in utilizing AIF funds?
   a) Maharashtra
   b) Punjab ✅
   c) Uttar Pradesh
   d) Karnataka
5. Which government institutions provide credit guarantee support under AIF?
   a) RBI & SEBI
   b) CGTMSE & NABSanrakshan ✅
   c) SIDBI & IRDAI
   d) NABARD & NITI Aayog

📌 Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the objectives and significance of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme in promoting rural development.
2. Analyze the impact of AIF on post-harvest losses and farmer income.
3. How does AIF contribute to agricultural modernization in India? Suggest improvements in its implementation.
4. Examine the role of public-private partnerships (PPP) in enhancing agricultural infrastructure under AIF.
5. Evaluate the success of Punjab in utilizing AIF funds and its implications for other states.

🔹 Final Takeaway

The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme is a landmark initiative that:

✅ Strengthens post-harvest management & value addition.
✅ Provides financial support with interest subvention & credit guarantee.
✅ Encourages agri-tech adoption & rural employment.
✅ Ensures sustainable agriculture through renewable energy projects.

With Punjab leading the way, other states can learn from its success to maximize infrastructure development & boost farmer income.