20th October 2025 – Current Affairs

1.Rakchham-Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary: Ecological Significance & Recent Initiatives – Environment

Why in News?

An international bird-watching programme was recently organized in the Rakchham area of the Rakchham-Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh.
This event spotlighted the sanctuary’s importance in bird conservation, its role in ecotourism, and biodiversity protection in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

Key Facts & Developments

• Location: Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh

• Area: 30.98 sq. km

• Altitude Range: 3,200 to 5,486 meters above sea level

• Geographical Setting: Part of the Western Himalayan range

• Climatic Feature: Located in a dry zone, it is largely unaffected by monsoon rains

• Lamkhanga Pass: A high-altitude trekking route that connects Kinnaur (HP) to Gangotri (Uttarakhand)

Ecological Importance

Flora:

• Rich vegetation includes rhododendrons, oak, pine trees, and numerous medicinal herbs

Fauna:

• Flagship species: Snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer

• Avian biodiversity: Numerous species of high-altitude birds—highlighted through bird-watching programmes

Conservation & Tourism Significance

• The sanctuary supports a fragile high-altitude ecosystem

• Plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation, particularly of endangered species

• Enhances environmental awareness through eco-tourism initiatives

• The bird-watching event positions it on the global birding map, attracting both researchers and tourists

Link with Himachal Pradesh

• Directly contributes to eco-tourism in tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh (like Kinnaur)

• Supports local livelihoods through nature-based tourism

• Aligns with Himachal’s emphasis on sustainable mountain development and climate-resilient ecology

   

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1.Which of the following statements about Rakchham-Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary is correct?
A. It is located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh
B. It receives heavy monsoon rainfall throughout the year
C. It lies in a dry zone and supports species like snow leopard and musk deer
D. It connects Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh via Lamkhanga Pass
Answer: C. It lies in a dry zone and supports species like snow leopard and musk deer

2.Lamkhanga Pass, often mentioned in context with the Rakchham-Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary, connects:
A. Kinnaur to Lahaul
B.Kinnaur to Gangotri (Uttarakhand)
C. Kullu to Uttarakhand
D. Spiti to Nepal
Answer:  B. Kinnaur to Gangotri (Uttarakhand)

Mains

1.“High-altitude wildlife sanctuaries like Rakchham-Chitkul play a dual role in biodiversity conservation and climate change resilience.” Discuss with reference to recent eco-tourism initiatives.

2.Examine the ecological significance of dry-zone sanctuaries in the Western Himalayas with a special focus on flora, fauna, and conservation challenges.

2.Nafithromycin: India’s First Indigenously Developed Antibiotic – Science and Technology

Why in News?

The Union Minister of Science & Technology recently announced the successful development of Nafithromycin, marking a landmark achievement as India’s first fully indigenous antibiotic. This innovation is a major step in combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and showcases India’s rising capability in pharmaceutical R&D.

Key Facts & Developments

• Nafithromycin is the first antibiotic molecule to be completely conceptualized, developed, and clinically validated in India.

•  It is marketed under the trade name “Miqnaf”.

• Therapeutic Use: Primarily developed to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP).

• Target Group: Especially beneficial for vulnerable patients like those with cancer, poorly controlled diabetes, and weakened immunity.

• Spectrum of Activity: Effective against both typical and atypical pathogens, making it highly versatile in treating respiratory infections.

Significance in Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

What is AMR?

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) refers to the ability of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs.

• This leads to:

  • Prolonged illnesses

  • Increased healthcare costs

  • Higher mortality rates

  • Greater risk of disease spread

Why Nafithromycin Matters:

• It directly targets drug-resistant respiratory infections—a growing global health concern.

• No new antibiotic from this class has been developed globally in over 30 years, making Nafithromycin a breakthrough.

• Supports India’s national AMR action plan and aligns with the Global Action Plan on AMR by WHO.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1.Which of the following statements about Nafithromycin is correct?
A. It is an antiviral drug for treating COVID-19
B. It is India’s first indigenously developed antibiotic effective against resistant respiratory infections
C. It is used to treat malaria and was developed by WHO
D. It is a vaccine developed for pneumonia prevention
Answer:  B. It is India’s first indigenously developed antibiotic effective against resistant respiratory infections

2.Nafithromycin is particularly effective against which of the following conditions?
A. Tuberculosis
B. Chronic kidney disease
C. Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia
D. Dengue fever
Answer: C. Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia

Mains

1.Discuss the significance of Nafithromycin as a scientific breakthrough in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. How can indigenous drug development reshape India’s public healthcare landscape?

2.India’s development of its first indigenous antibiotic is a step toward healthcare self-reliance. Critically analyze this achievement in the context of global antibiotic resistance and the need for sustainable innovation.

3. India and FAO Celebrate 80 Years of Partnership – Economy

Why in News?

On World Food Day 2025, India and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations celebrated 80 years of collaboration, underscoring their shared commitment to eradicating hunger, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Key Facts & Developments

• FAO Establishment: Founded in October 1945, the FAO is the oldest specialized agency of the United Nations.

• Membership: Comprises 195 members – 194 countries + European Union.

• India’s Role: Founding member of FAO and a long-standing partner in agricultural development initiatives.

• 2025 Celebration: Commemorates 80 years of India–FAO cooperation in tackling hunger, poverty, and improving rural livelihoods.

FAO’s Mandate and Functions

Core Objectives:

• Enhance global nutrition and food security

• Boost agricultural productivity

• Improve rural living standards

• Promote sustainable resource management

• Support inclusive economic growth

Key Functions:

• Facilitates technical cooperation between governments and agencies

• Provides data, analysis, and expertise in areas like:

  • Agriculture

  • Forestry

  • Fisheries

  • Land & Water Management

• Acts as a platform for policy dialogue and global agreements

• Supports member nations in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger

Major Reports Published by FAO

India–FAO Collaboration: Strategic Importance

•  Joint projects in agriculture extension, fisheries, climate-resilient farming, and digital farming tools

• Focus on food fortification, nutrition enhancement, and post-harvest loss reduction

• Supports organic and sustainable farming in India’s diverse agro-climatic zones

• Partnership has implications for Himachal Pradesh, where FAO-backed projects support hill agriculture, horticulture, and biodiversity conservation

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1.Which of the following reports is NOT published by the FAO?
A. State of the World’s Forests (SOFO)
B. World Economic Outlook (WEO)
C. State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI)
D. State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA)
Answer: B. World Economic Outlook (WEO) (published by IMF)

2.Where is the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) located?
A. Geneva
B. New York
C. Rome
D. Paris
Answer: C.Rome

Mains

1.The FAO has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s agricultural development and food security landscape.” Critically evaluate the significance of India–FAO collaboration in the context of sustainable agriculture.

2.Discuss the global role of FAO in tackling food insecurity and its implications for India’s agricultural policies and rural development.

4. Bathou Religion: Cultural Recognition of the Bodo Community – Indian Society

Why in News?

The Bathou religion, the indigenous faith of the Bodo community in Assam, is set to receive a distinct religion code in the upcoming Census, marking a major step in the recognition of the cultural and religious identity of one of India’s major tribal groups.

Key Facts & Developments

• Community: Practiced by the Bodo tribe, the largest plains tribe in Assam.

• Etymology: ‘Bathou’ is derived from Bodo words meaning “five” and “deep philosophical thought“.

• Philosophical Basis: The religion is built on the worship of five fundamental natural elements:

  1. Air

  2. Sun

  3. Earth

  4. Fire

  5. Sky

Core Beliefs & Practices

Supreme Deity: Bwrai Bathou

• ‘Bwrai’ means “eldest” or “most powerful.”

• Bwrai Bathou is revered as the supreme god, representing wisdom and universal power.

Sijou Plant (Euphorbia splendens)

• Central symbol in Bathou religious practice.

• Represents life and soul in Bodo culture.

• Planted at the Bathou altar (called ‘Sijou Thansali’).

Symbolism and Ritual Space

• The sijou plant is fenced with 18 pairs of bamboo posts woven with 5 horizontal bamboo strips.

• The five strips represent five critical life events:

  1. Birth

  2. Marriage / Procreation

  3. Sorrow

  4. Happiness

  5. Death

Significance of Census Recognition

• Separate Religion Code in the Census:

  • Ensures official recognition of the Bathou religion.

  • Helps in accurate demographic representation of the Bodo community.

  • Encourages preservation of indigenous religious and cultural practices.

• Promotes inclusive policy planning, cultural respect, and better minority rights protection.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1.Which of the following plants is considered sacred in the Bathou religion of the Bodo community?
A. Neem
B. Banyan
C. Peepal
D. Sijou (Euphorbia splendens)
Answer: D. Sijou (Euphorbia splendens)

2.The Bathou religion, which recently received a separate Census code, is primarily practiced in which Indian state?
A. Meghalaya
B. Assam
C. Tripura
D. Nagaland
Answer: B. Assam

Mains

1.The recognition of indigenous religions like Bathou strengthens the pluralistic fabric of Indian society.” Discuss with reference to tribal identity and census representation.

2.Examine the significance of indigenous religious practices in preserving tribal culture. Illustrate your answer with reference to the Bathou religion of the Bodo community.

5. Pakistan’s Bid for Membership in the New Development Bank (NDB) – International Relations 

Why in News?

Pakistan has sought China’s diplomatic support in joining the New Development Bank (NDB) — a multilateral financial institution co-founded by BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).
This move underscores Pakistan’s attempt to deepen development financing ties with emerging economies and strengthen international economic collaboration.

Key Facts & Developments

• 🇵🇰 Pakistan is looking to join the NDB to access infrastructure financing, especially for sustainable development projects.

• 🇨🇳 It has approached China, often referred to as an “iron brother,” to facilitate its entry, highlighting China’s growing influence within BRICS institutions.

About the New Development Bank (NDB)

Focus Areas of NDB

• Clean and renewable energy

•  Transport and logistics infrastructure

•  Water and sanitation projects

•  Environmental protection and climate resilience

•  Social infrastructure (education, health)

•  Digital infrastructure for developing economies

Significance of Pakistan’s Membership Bid

For Pakistan:

• Access to alternative development financing amid economic challenges

• Reduced dependence on traditional lenders like the IMF or World Bank

• Aligns with China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) goals under BRI

For BRICS/NDB:

• Strengthens South–South cooperation

• Broadens geographic reach and diversifies membership

• Potential geopolitical tensions, especially with India, a co-founder, may arise

Implications for India

•  India is a founding member of NDB and holds equal shareholding.

• Pakistan’s entry may pose diplomatic challenges within the bank’s governance.

• Reflects the growing strategic role of China in multilateral institutions and regional alignments.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1.Which of the following countries is not a founding member of the New Development Bank?
A. India
B. China
C.Pakistan
D.South Africa
Answer: C. Pakistan

2.Where is the headquarters of the New Development Bank located?
A. Geneva
B. New Delhi
C. Shanghai
D. Johannesburg
Answer: C. Shanghai

Mains 

1.Discuss the objectives and strategic significance of the New Development Bank in the context of global development financing. How might Pakistan’s proposed entry affect the geopolitical balance within the institution?

2.Evaluate the implications of Pakistan seeking membership in BRICS-founded institutions like the NDB. What challenges and opportunities does this pose for India’s foreign policy and regional influence?